Podcasts about Small business

In this eye-opening episode of the We Don't PLAY! Podcast, host Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS dismantles the myth of "cheap SEO." Joined by guests Dr. Fashion, Austin, John, and Celese, the conversation exposes the significant long-term damage that corner-cutting SEO practices can inflict on a business. Favour emphasizes that SEO is not a one-time fix but a long-term investment in your brand's digital foundation. The episode draws a powerful analogy, comparing cheap SEO to building a house with substandard materials — a structure doomed to fail. The discussion highlights the stark difference between unethical "black hat" tactics, which lead to severe penalties from search engines like Google, and the sustainable growth achieved through ethical, "white hat" strategies. Dr. Fashion shares an inspiring personal story of how her commitment to quality SEO on her YouTube channel led to incredible success, enabling her to purchase her mother's childhood home. The episode is a masterclass for any business owner, marketing professional, or entrepreneur who wants to understand the true value of a robust, strategic, and long-term SEO plan.It's a crucial reminder that in the world of digital marketing, you get what you pay for, and the cost of cheap SEO is ultimately a price too high to pay for any business serious about growth and longevity.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike⁠>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Read SEO Articles>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksKey Takeaways1. Cheap SEO is a Myth: Low-cost SEO services often use harmful "black hat" techniques that can get your website penalized by Google, costing you more in the long run.2. SEO is a Long-Term Investment: Sustainable SEO is not about quick fixes. It's about consistently building a strong online presence through high-quality content and ethical practices.3. Quality SEO Drives Real-World Results: As demonstrated by Dr. Fashion's story, a well-executed SEO strategy can lead to significant financial success and brand authority.4. A Holistic Approach is Essential: Effective SEO encompasses more than just keywords. It includes website design, user experience, content quality, and technical optimization.5. Inaction is Expensive: In a competitive digital landscape, not investing in SEO means being invisible to your target audience and losing ground to your competitors.6. Understand the Value You're Paying For: Be wary of SEO providers who make grand promises without clear, measurable results. A reputable expert will provide a transparent and strategic plan.7. SEO is a Way of Life: Favour makes the point that search is a fundamental human behavior. Applying this mindset to your business's digital strategy is key to success.Memorable Quotes[01:04 - 01:17] "The cost of cheap SEO is to the point where you know when you hear something has been done but it has been done poorly. It's like trying to build a house and then you use the wrong sand, you use the wrong brick, you use the wrong everything." — Favour Obasi-ike[22:40 - 22:59] "SEO works, y'all. It's a long-term game. You don't want to enjoy the shade before building or planting the seed. We have to follow the rule. We have to abide by the law. There's a procedure. There's seed, there's time, there's harvest. We can't harvest without planting a seed." — Favour Obasi-ike[67:24 - 67:41] "If you have a business, you should have a podcast...it's a 24/7, 365 marketing platform for you. It's another place where people can search and be discovered." — John[26:20 - 26:31] "When you think about SEO, it boils down to two things. You're either focusing on branded queries, which is your business name, your brand name, the name that people know you for, or you're focusing on non-branded queries." — Favour Obasi-ike[45:53 - 46:02] "If everyone did SEO correctly, we'd have a better search experience, to be honest. 100%, because SEO is not competition. It's search." — Favour Obasi-ikeFAQs1. What is the difference between "black hat" and "white hat" SEO?"Black hat" SEO refers to unethical tactics that violate search engine guidelines to try and rank a site higher, such as buying links or keyword stuffing. "White hat" SEO, on the other hand, focuses on creating high-quality content and a good user experience to earn rankings organically.2. How long does it take to see results from SEO?SEO is a long-term strategy. While some technical fixes can have a quick impact, it typically takes several months to see significant, sustainable results from a comprehensive SEO campaign.3. Why is content so important for SEO?High-quality content is the foundation of modern SEO. It's what attracts and engages your audience, establishes your authority, and gives search engines the context they need to rank your site for relevant queries.Timestamps[00:00] Introduction: The True Cost of Cheap SEO[02:32] The Long-Term vs. Short-Term View of SEO[05:49] Real-Life Success Story: LinkedIn Newsletter Growth[11:11] The Dangers of Black Hat SEO[17:25] SEO Starts with a Secure Website (HTTPS)[20:15] Dr. Fashion on YouTube SEO and Organic Discovery[23:24] John's Experience with Unqualified SEO Pitches[30:04] The Importance of Backlinks and Domain Authority[44:46] SEO as a Long-Term, Ethical Investment[48:22] SEO as a Natural Extension of Human Behavior[55:00] The Power of Podcasting for Business Growth[68:03] The Importance of Language and Mindset in Marketing[71:02] Understanding Keyword Categories for Effective SEOSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

For the first time, Google has publicly designated a core update as a "Discover Core Update," signaling a major shift in how content is surfaced to users. In this podcast episode of the We Don't PLAY!™️ Podcast, host Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS, unpacks the groundbreaking February 2026 Google Core Update with 200+ people in the Clubhouse Audio LIVE! room.This update, which rolled out over 22 days, emphasizes a move towards a more personalized, AI-driven, and visually-oriented search experience. Favour explains that the Discover feed functions like a recommendation engine for the entire web, proactively suggesting content based on a user's interests and online behavior, rather than just reacting to search queries. This means the success of your content is now heavily influenced by the end-user's activity.The episode delves into the critical importance of creating "people-first" content — content that is helpful, reliable, and genuinely valuable to the audience. Favour warns against the use of clickbait and spammy headlines, as the new algorithm is designed to penalize such practices.Furthermore, the discussion highlights the often-overlooked but crucial role of technical SEO. Using a real-world client example and citing HubSpot's past struggles with a core update, Favour illustrates how a weak technical foundation can undermine even the best content strategy.The episode provides a comprehensive overview of what this update means for businesses and marketers, offering actionable advice on how to adapt and thrive. From optimizing images for a visual-first platform to conducting thorough content audits, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of SEO.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike⁠>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Read SEO Articles>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksKey Takeaways1. A New Era of Search: The February 2026 Google Core Update is the first to be publicly named a "Discover Core Update," marking a significant shift towards a proactive, AI-powered content recommendation system.2. Content is Still King, but Context is Queen: The update prioritizes "people-first" content that is helpful, reliable, and engaging. The focus is on user intent and value, not just keywords.3. Technical SEO is Non-Negotiable: A solid technical foundation is more critical than ever. Issues with hosting, server response times, and website structure can severely impact your visibility.4. The Power of Personalization: The Discover feed is driven by user behavior and interests. This means your content's reach is now directly tied to how well it resonates with individual users.5. Visuals are Vital: The "Discover" update is inherently visual. High-quality, optimized images and videos are essential for capturing attention and driving engagement in the Discover feed.6. Say Goodbye to Gimmicks: Clickbait, spammy headlines, and other manipulative tactics will be actively penalized. Authenticity and value are the new currency of SEO.7. Embrace an Omnichannel Strategy: Relying solely on Google for traffic is a risky strategy. Building a strong presence across multiple platforms, including social media and email, is key to long-term, sustainable growth.Timestamps[00:00] Introduction to the Google Core Update[01:07] Google's First Publicly Labeled "Discover Core Update"[02:02] Timeline of the February 2026 Update[04:04] The Importance of Technical SEO[05:00] Case Study: HubSpot's Traffic Loss[06:02] The Lack of Information on Core Updates[08:12] Details of the Discover Core Update[10:15] The Role of AI in the Update[13:01] Impact on Different Industries[16:20] The "People-First" Content Strategy[20:01] The Importance of Visual Content[25:54] How User Activity Influences Search Results[27:37] Avoiding Clickbait and Spam[28:06] The Future of Search and ContentMemorable Quotes[01:07 - 01:19] "This is the first time Google has ever publicly mentioned about an update like this, especially to the open, because this doesn't usually happen all the time."[04:19 - 04:26] "I want to know about the core things that's going to either make or break your business online, especially when it comes to AI."[27:43 - 27:47] "You're going to avoid, avoid, avoid, avoid, avoid, avoid, by all means, avoid clickbait."[28:03 - 28:06] "If you're not people-first, it's gonna be quite hard."[26:11 - 26:15] "So the ball is not even in your court anymore. If you really think about it, the ball is in the activity of the user's court."FAQs1. What is the Google Discover Core Update?The February 2026 Google Discover Core Update is a major algorithm change that focuses on personalizing the content shown in the Google Discover feed. It uses AI to proactively recommend articles, videos, and other content based on a user's interests and online behavior, rather than just responding to search queries.2. What is "people-first" content?"People-first" content is content created primarily to provide value to the reader, rather than to rank in search engines. It should be helpful, reliable, well-written, and address the user's needs and interests. This is in contrast to content that is stuffed with keywords or uses clickbait headlines to attract clicks.3. Why is technical SEO important for this update?Technical SEO ensures that your website has a solid foundation for Google to crawl, index, and understand your content. With the Discover update, technical factors like site speed, mobile-friendliness, and structured data are more important than ever for getting your content recommended to users.4. How can I optimize my content for Google Discover?To optimize for Discover, focus on creating high-quality, people-first content with compelling headlines and high-quality images. Understand your audience's interests and create content that aligns with them. Also, ensure your website is technically sound and provides a good user experience.5. What are the key takeaways from the February 2026 update?The key takeaways are to prioritize people-first content, invest in technical SEO, embrace visual content, avoid clickbait, and build an omni-channel marketing strategy to reduce reliance on a single traffic source.More ResourcesGoogle Search Status DashboardGoogle Discover Core Update BlogWork and PLAY! Blog - What is SEO?Work and PLAY! Blog - Technical SEO CourseWe Don't PLAY!™️ Podcast Episode - Social Media Organic StrategiesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to the stage: Bri is here to discuss her multifaceted journey in the music industry. From her beginnings behind the scenes to stepping into the spotlight as a vocalist, Bri shares the inspiration behind her brand, "Melanin Universe," a platform for networking and promoting fellow artists.She delves into her creative process, the spiritual and Egyptian influences on her music and merchandise, and the story behind her debut song, "Goddess Love." Bri opens up about her struggles with self-doubt, the importance of mental health, and how she transforms negativity into motivation. This episode concludes with Bri giving advice to her younger and future self, and details about her upcoming "Eye Am Isis" tour. starting February 28, 2026. Get your Tickets Here >>Key Takeaways:Embrace Your Calling: Don't run away from your true purpose, even if it's daunting.Alchemy of Negativity: Use doubt and criticism from others as fuel to prove them wrong and achieve your goals.The Power of Self-Belief: Overcoming external and internal negativity is crucial for an artist's growth.Art and Spirituality: Art is a powerful medium for self-expression and healing, deeply connected to one's spiritual and emotional state.FAQs:What is Melanin Universe? It's a networking platform created by Bri to connect artists with producers, tattoo artists, and other creatives. It also features moon phases and affirmations.What is Bri's advice for aspiring artists? She advises artists to not dwell on negative experiences for too long, to feel their feelings and then move on. She also emphasizes the importance of not being a people-pleaser.What is the story behind her first song? Her first song, "Goddess Love," came to her in the middle of the night. It was a way for her to show a more feminine and vulnerable side of herself, contrary to how people perceived her.Timestamps:[01:53] - Discussion about "Melanin Universe."[07:14] - The story of her first song, "Goddess Love."[15:01] - How she deals with mental health struggles.[22:02] - Advice to her younger and future self.[24:04] - Upcoming "I am Isis" tour.Quotes:"I'm really good at shitting on people. Like, if you doubt me, and you think that I can't do something... I'm gonna shit on you every single time.""You gotta lose your mind to gain it all back again.""I wanted to heal the world in whatever way that I'm destined to.""Don't dwell on the things that have happened to you. Feel your feelings. Give yourself 48 hours to feel your feelings and snap out of it."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send me a Text Message. We share a clear, kinder way to do marketing: repeat your message with integrity so the right people can finally hear it. From the mere exposure effect to mini campaigns across platforms, we turn silence into timing and boredom into a positive signal.• owning the creative life and business coach identity• why one-off posts fail to reach people• the wedding metaphor for attention and delivery• silence meaning timing, not disinterest• mere exposure effect and the rule of seven• the boredom paradox and staying the course• building mini campaigns with varied formats• using multiple platforms without copy-paste• checking numbers to calm your nerves• connecting the dots with clear calls to actionEmail me at info at ja-wol.comGo to www.patternshift.fm to find out more You know me as a guide, mentor and teacher, but I've also set off on a new adventure, coaching. Coaching gets a bad rep sometimes, but when it's done right, it can be really transformational. As part of my coaching education, I'll soon need to do real coaching sessions. And it could be a really great opportunity for you to experience it at no or low cost. If you've ever been curious about working with me in this way, now's the time. Just send me an email: info@ja-wol.comSupport the show☆ other ways to SUPPORT THE SHOW ☆ If you appreciate the free content and the work we put into this podcast, consider showing your support in a way that feels right to you. This could be by sharing episodes with friends, signing up for our newsletter, or making a small monthly contribution by clicking the Support the Show link. Your support keeps the podcast going and aligns with the values we share. Thank you for being a part of this movement! ☞ GET MAIL ☜☆ SIGN UP HERE! ☆ ☞ FIND OTHER BUSINESS OWNERS IN OUR COMMUNITY SPACE ☜☆JOIN THE CONVERSATION☆ Have a question? Want to offer your opinion? Do you have an idea for a guest or topic? info@ja-wol.com or leave me a voice message!

Solve a real buyer problem. Build enterprise value. Exit on your terms.In this episode of the She Leads Podcast, Kelly Parker shares how she built Send Ribbon, a bootstrapped corporate gifting company acquired by UrbanStems, by focusing on one overlooked opportunity: solving real pain points for real buyers.With just $5,000 and no outside funding, Kelly launched her business at 27 after years inside high growth companies like Indeed, WeWork, and DoorDash. Instead of chasing luxury products or hype, she spoke directly with office managers, the true gatekeepers of corporate purchasing, and realized they did not need more options. They needed reliability, speed, and zero friction.That insight became her competitive advantage and ultimately positioned the company for acquisition.In this conversation, Kelly breaks down how relationship first thinking helped her win Fortune 500 clients, why visibility matters more than perfection when positioning for acquisition, and how staying close to your buyer builds long term enterprise value.She also challenges the pressure many women founders face to be “all in” at the expense of financial stability. From healthcare realities to diversified income strategies, Kelly shares practical advice for building sustainable companies that align with your life, not just your ambition.Today, through her advisory platform launchgrowexit, Kelly supports female founders who want to launch, grow, and eventually exit their companies with clarity and confidence.If you are building a business, thinking about long term value, or questioning the hustle culture narrative, this episode offers a grounded roadmap for turning customer insight into a high value company.Chapters: 00:56

Jenni Gritters recently hosted me for a Your Attention is Sacred book club, and I'm excited to share our conversation with you!Tune in as we discuss:Understanding the goals of the algorithmsAddiction as a lens to make sense of social mediaJenni's decision to delete her Instagram accountThe parallels between fractured attention and financial scarcityReckoning with combative platformsHow to protect your well-being if you're still on social media⭐️ & RSVP FOR MY BOOK READING IN SAN FRANCISCO ON MARCH 12TH! ⭐️    BOOKS MENTIONED (affiliate links):Your Attention is Sacred Except on Social Media by Amelia HrubyThe Sustainable Solopreneur by Jenni GrittersThe Practice of Attention by Cody Cook-ParrottDopamine Nation by Anna Lembke, MDStolen Focus by Johann HariThe Sirens' Call by Chris HayesThe Age of Surveillance Capitalism by Shoshana Zuboff LINKS & RESOURCES:

James Tucker recently had his business page removed from facebook because another business with a similar name in Atlanta told them he was using their name and likeness. MAHD House Bar & Grille is registered business in the State of Ohio county of Lorain. Madhouse Sports bar & Grille is a DBA in Atlanta. He was unaware of this business till this incident and certainly don't use their name and likeness. Facebook removed the page after 9 years and thousands of dollars spent promoting the page because a company without the same name, logos or similar customers said he used their name and likeness. Even worse is that FB has no real tech support to address these issues. All you get is a foreigner with very little understanding of the appeal needed and attempting to navigate you through Facebook website. Facebook has gone as far as to remove the business address from being tagged. This is an abuse of small business by huge companies with no concern to what they are doing to a business that they excepted and encouraged to spend money to promote and build on their site.

Turn the noise off, leave the electronics home, find a place to think… and continuous improvement ideas will pop up everywhere. You just need to quiet the noise, search your mind, reflect on possible improvements, and then write them down. It can be therapeutic and refreshing at the same time. Our minds are amazing creations, and we really see what they can produce when we search and listen. How about you? Do you ever search your mind in total quiet, and with a pen and paper nearby! Try it. The results will astonish you!Support the show

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

In this insightful episode of the We Don't PLAY!™️ Podcast, host Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS demystifies the critical evolution of search in the age of artificial intelligence, focusing on a concept she terms "AI SEO 101." The central theme revolves around the distinction and strategic importance of closing both prompt gaps and keyword gaps to secure valuable brand citations. While traditional SEO has focused on optimizing for short, fragmented keywords (e.g., "best travel deals"), the rise of conversational AI assistants like ChatGPT and Perplexity has given birth to the prompt—a longer, full-sentence query (e.g., "What are the best international travel deals for a family of four in summer 2026?").Favour argues that many businesses are unprepared for this shift, leaving a "prompt gap" in their content strategy. While they may have content targeting keywords, they lack the in-depth, conversational, and authoritative answers that AI models seek when responding to user prompts. The ultimate goal for any brand is to become a direct brand citation in an AI-generated answer, a feat achieved only by providing comprehensive, well-supported information. As Favour compellingly states, the answers provided by AI are sourced directly from the content available on the web: "Where are those responses AI is getting coming from in the first place? They're coming from your website."The core of the strategy lies in recognizing that your website is the foundational pillar of your digital presence. To bridge the prompt gap, Favour advocates for a robust pillar-cluster content model. This involves creating a main "pillar" page that exhaustively answers a primary customer question, supported by numerous "cluster" pages that explore related sub-topics in detail. This creates a dense, interconnected web of expertise that signals authority to search engines and AI alike. The episode emphasizes a shift from merely creating blogs to creating comprehensive resource hubs, complete with FAQs, multimedia content, and evidence-backed claims, much like a digital research paper.Favour provides a clear action plan: identify the core questions your audience is asking, build out content that answers them conversationally and in-depth, and structure this content logically on your website. She also touches on the technical side, noting that URLs should remain concise and keyword-focused, while the content on the page should be rich and prompt-focused. Ultimately, the episode is a powerful call to action for businesses to stop dwelling on information and start implementing a forward-thinking content strategy. By treating your website as a definitive library of answers, you can close the gaps in your SEO strategy and ensure your brand not only survives but thrives in the new era of AI-powered search.Key TakeawaysPrompts vs. Keywords: A prompt is a conversational, full-sentence question (10-25 words) posed to an AI, whereas a keyword is a short, fragmented search query (2-5 words) used in traditional search engines.The Goal is Brand Citation: In the new landscape of AI search, the primary objective is to have your brand and website cited directly as the authoritative source in an AI-generated answer.Your Website is the Foundation: All digital roads lead back to your website. It is the most critical asset for building authority and providing the in-depth answers that AI models are looking for.Close the Prompt Gap with Conversational Content: To appear in AI search results, you must create content that directly and comprehensively answers the full questions your audience is asking, not just targets keywords.Adopt a Pillar-Cluster Model: For each major question your audience has, create one main "pillar" page with a complete answer and support it with multiple "cluster" pages that cover related sub-topics. This builds a powerful web of expertise.Content as a Resource Hub: Think of your content less like a series of blog posts and more like a library of research. Support your answers with data, evidence, multimedia, and links to other authoritative sources to build trust and credibility.Action Over Acronyms: While understanding terms like AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) is useful, the focus should be on the practical implementation of creating high-quality, question-answering content.Memorable Quotes"A prompt is keywords in confirmation of the context that has been started by conversation.""You can't say a brand without connecting a website.""Where are those responses AI is getting coming from in the first place? They're coming from your website.""Don't be in a place where you're dwelling on information and not taking action on implementation.""15% of new searches every day out of at least 8.5 billion searches a day are new, including yours.""You don't put a prompt in your URL, you put a keyword in your URL.""You're not just creating blogs, you're creating calls to action."Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What is the main difference between a prompt and a keyword? A prompt is a long, conversational question asked to an AI, while a keyword is a short, fragmented phrase used in a traditional search bar. Your content strategy needs to address both.Why are brand citations important in AI SEO? A brand citation is when an AI search tool names your website as the source of its information. It positions your brand as a trusted authority, driving traffic and credibility.Is blogging still relevant in 2026? Yes, absolutely. However, the format has evolved. Modern blogging should focus on creating in-depth, conversational articles that function as answers to user prompts, effectively turning your blog into a resource hub or "audio blog."How do I start closing the prompt gap on my website? Begin by identifying the most common and important questions your customers ask. Then, create comprehensive content (like a detailed FAQ page or a pillar article) that answers these questions thoroughly and links to supporting cluster pages.What is the pillar-cluster model? It's a content strategy where you create one major "pillar" page that covers a broad topic in-depth. You then create multiple "cluster" pages that address specific sub-topics related to the pillar, with all cluster pages linking back to the main pillar page. This structure organizes your content and signals deep expertise to search engines.Timestamps[00:00] Introduction: AI SEO 101 - Prompt Gaps vs. Keyword Gaps.[01:35] Defining a "Prompt": A conversational query of 10-25 words.[02:48] Defining a "Keyword": Traditional short, medium, and long-tail search terms.[05:52] The Central Role of Your Website in Brand Citations.[06:34] How Search Engines Match Pages to Queries.[07:17] Core Concept: A prompt is "keywords in conversation."[08:03] The Solution: Closing the gap with conversational, FAQ-style content.[09:43] Strategy Deep Dive: The Pillar-Cluster content model (1 Pillar + 9 Clusters).[15:02] Where AI Gets Its Answers: Your website is the source for LLMs.[16:02] Building Authority: Go beyond facts and support claims with experience and evidence.[19:00] Your website is the common thread in all customer interactions.[20:44] Technical SEO Tip: Use keywords in your URLs, not long prompts.[22:36] Market Opportunity: 15% of the 8.5 billion daily searches are entirely new.[23:38] Content with Purpose: Your content should create calls to action, not just exist as a blog.[24:14] Closing Remarks & How to Connect.[25:12] Podcast Outro.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike⁠>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Read SEO Articles>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of America at Night with McGraw Milhaven, Neil Bradley, Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, examined how tariffs, persistent inflation, labor shortages, and the rapid rise of AI are impacting small businesses across the country. Bradley discussed the challenges employers face in hiring, pricing, and long-term planning amid economic uncertainty. Later, Professor Paul Gillingham of Northwestern University, author of “Mexico: A 500-Year History,” provided historical and political context to explain why Mexican cartels continue to wield outsized power and why migration pressures remain high despite Mexico being a top-15 global economy. Gillingham explored governance gaps, corruption, regional inequality, and cartel violence as key drivers pushing people toward the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today's show is me as a guest on "BAM - Beyond A Million" hosted by Brad Weimart!Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses?

So I finally convinced you that you can't ignore AI… and you're ready to implement it in your toy business. Go you. Love that for you.

Hey podcast listener – quick update.I'm taking an intentional pause from producing new episodes for the main podcast, and I'm genuinely excited about what's coming next.Behind the scenes, I'm working on several big projects designed to help Peak Freedom members get better results, faster – with far less second-guessing, worry, and uncertainty.And here's what's exciting: the results members are getting right now are coming faster and cleaner than ever before. We're seeing high-leverage changes that fix firms for good – often in under eight months, and sometimes in just three to four months inside Accelerator. The relief is unmistakable.That's because the resources are solid, the community is tight and high-caliber, and the obstacles that used to slow people down are being removed.Instead of guessing, members know what to do.Instead of worrying, they test the plan.Instead of grinding, they're fixing their firms with confidence – and bringing them back under control.I'm doubling down on building the best content anywhere for accountants who want healthy, smooth, sustainable firms.While the main feed is on pause, be on the lookout for curated, topic-specific podcast feeds – pricing, packaging, niching, Simple Systems, Free Time, and a client-interview-only feed where you can hear your own story reflected back.This pause is intentional.Content is still coming – it's just getting sharper.And I'll be back with brand-new episodes and interviews very soon.What's coming next is worth the wait.…Link to full shownotes: https://www.businessstrategyforcpas.com/386…Want Pricing Essentials?If you feel trapped by your own accounting firm, it's not because of the work – it's how you've priced the work. Too many accountants are stuck in undercharging, overdelivering, and people-pleasing cycles. Break the pattern with my short PDF guide: 7 Pricing Essentials »It's free and you can read it in 5 minutes.I want to help you get your prices up without losing loyal clients.  …Want client interviews?310 From Exhausted to Having Her Life Back: Wendy Norman, CPA304 From 55 Down to 15 Hours; Same Take-Home Pay with Melissa Downs, EA293 What it Takes to Work 15 Hours per Week with Erica Goode, CPAComplete list:geraldinecarter.com/client-interview-episodes…FOUR ways I help overworked CPAs go down to 40 hours without losing revenue or hiring:THE EMAIL COURSE – Freegeraldinecarter.com/stop-working-weekendsStop Working Weekends will teach you how to reduce your hours without giving up revenue. THE BOOK – $9.99geraldinecarter.com/bookDown to 40 Hours – A Roadmap for CPAs to End Overworking Without Losing RevenuePEAK FREEDOM COMMUNITY – $197/mogeraldinecarter.com/peak-freedomFor solo and small accounting firm owners who want to rise above the insanity of hustle-cultureDOWN TO 40 HOURS ACCELERATOR – $995/mogeraldinecarter.com/40For the overworked CPA at multiple six figures of revenue who is ready to stop working weekends, wants to implement overdue changes, and doesn't want to do it alone. You'll make progress faster and with more confidence. …

In this masterclass episode of the We Don't PLAY!™️ Podcast, host Favour Obasi-ike, MBA, MS tackles a critical question for 2026: Is blogging still a cornerstone of a successful social business? The answer is a resounding YES. Favour Obasi-ike reveals that businesses with active blogs generate a staggering 67% more leads.This episode is a deep dive into the art and science of using blogs to drive social business revenue and achieve sustainable startup growth secrets. Favour breaks down the technical SEO behind a powerful blog, from understanding sitemaps as the "brain" of your website to structuring your content with a masterclass on headings (H1, H2, H3) and ideal word count (600-2,500 words).Learn actionable SEO tactics and content marketing strategies, including how to leverage Pinterest SEO and its 96% non-branded search traffic, the power of repurposing content, and why your business should aim for at least one blog post per week. Favour also touches on the future, discussing AI marketing, prompt gaps vs. keyword gaps, and how blogging principles apply to App Store Optimization (ASO). This is a must-listen for anyone looking to master digital marketing, boost organic traffic, and understand the long-term ROI of a robust blogging strategy.Episode Timestamps / Timeline[00:13] The Core Stat: Why blogs generate 67% more leads.[01:08] Technical SEO 101: Understanding sitemaps and search engine indexing.[04:02] Content Strategy: Supporting products with listicles, FAQs, and rich media.[05:18] Local SEO: How blogging gives you a local-based advantage.[09:02] Blogging Masterclass: The perfect structure for a high-ranking blog post.[25:00] Off-Page SEO: The power of backlinks and being featured.[28:49] Advanced SEO: Using Wikipedia and Reddit for credibility and traffic.[33:46] Case Study: How Canva used blogging to dominate the market.[35:01] Pinterest SEO Deep Dive: Tapping into non-branded search.[37:52] The ROI of Blogging: Low effort, high impact for long-term growth.[38:46] Beyond Websites: Applying blogging concepts to App Store Optimization.[41:04] The 520-Blog Rule: A benchmark for established businesses.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)Is blogging still valuable in 2026?Absolutely. According to the episode, businesses with active blogs generate 67% more leads and establish crucial brand visibility and authority.How does blogging improve SEO?Blogging expands your website's sitemap, creating more opportunities for indexing. It allows for strategic keyword research implementation, internal/external linking, and building off-page SEO through backlinks.What is the ideal length and structure for a blog post?Aim for a 5-minute read, which is about 600-2,500 words. Structure it with a clear hierarchy of H1, H2, and H3 tags, and keep paragraphs concise (1-3 sentences).How can I use blogging for my social business?Use your blog as a central hub for your content marketing. Repurpose social media posts into detailed articles, embed videos and social feeds, and use your blog content to fuel your email marketing and ad campaigns.Book SEO Services | Quick Links for Social Business>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book SEO Services with Favour Obasi-ike⁠>> Visit Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Read SEO Articles>> ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠>> Purchase Flaev Beatz Beats Online>> Favour Obasi-ike Quick LinksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“He's been with us for 13 years. He's the new guy.” When host Blake Reed Evans heard those words on a visit to Three-13 Salon in Marietta, Georgia, he knew we had to talk about this business' staying power on the show.  Our guest Lester Crowell is a managing partner at Three-13, a departmentalized salon and spa company that's been running for 52 years. What's their secret? The formula combines lots of structure, weekly service provider education, and schedule flexibility when it comes to guests.  Three-13 also gives back to the community. Lester is a two-time heart transplant recipient, and  fifteen years ago Lester and Three-13 launched Angels of Life, a hair and fashion show benefiting the Georgia Transplant Foundation. Through the show and employee bake sales, Three-13 has raised over $1 million to help transplant recipients.  Learn more at  three-13.com . Follow Summit Salon Business Center on Instagram @SummitSalon, and on TikTok at SummitSalon. SUMM IT UP is now on YouTube! Watch extended cuts of our interviews at www.youtube.com/@summitunlockedFind host Blake Reed Evans on Instagram @BlakeReedEvans and on TikTok at blakereedevans. His DM's are always open! You can email Blake at bevans@summitsalon.com. Visit us at SummitSalon.com to connect with others in the industry.

Two truths can coexist: headlines can drown out the soul of sport, and honest stories can still cut through the noise. We open with a candid look at how the Olympics should feel—earned pride, shared sacrifice, and a country pulling together—then spotlight the moments that actually delivered. Alysa Liu's gold, shaped by a father who fled repression for freedom. Team USA hockey honoring the Gaudreau brothers and lifting a grieving family onto the medal stage on the Miracle on Ice anniversary. The women's team claiming gold too. That's unity you can feel without a single talking point.From there we zoom into the trenches where most of us live: a small business sprint to Daytona Bike Week through a full-on blizzard. The bus won't roll, so a friend drops a near-new trailer and another brings a new truck for a predawn hookup. Customers snap up a new America 250 design—Stars, Stripes, and Straight Pipes—while a local sponsor covers fuel and partners fund the haul south. Meanwhile, checklists stack up: tires swapped, inventory pressed, flyers designed, codes set. Then the clock turns ruthless. A critical shipment slips from two-day air to five, the bank closes for weather, and the driveway must stay clear for a maybe-delivery. This is what resilience looks like off-camera.We connect the dots: greatness is never free. Athletes and entrepreneurs draw from the same well—discipline, community, and the choice to grow through hard things. Family bears the real cost: a wife juggling work, baby, and farm; a mother flexing her schedule; friends burning vacation days to chase a dream that isn't technically theirs and somehow absolutely is. That's what patriotism looks like when it's not a slogan—people making, carrying, and caring here at home. Ride with us for the goosebumps, the grit, and the reminder that pride means showing up when it's hardest. If this story hits you, follow, share with a friend who needs the push, and leave a review so more people find the tribe.If you found value in today's show please return the favor and leave a positive review and share it with someone important to you! https://www.sharethestrugglepodcast.com/reviews/new/Find all you need to know about the show https://www.sharethestrugglepodcast.com/Official Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077724159859Join the 2% of Americans that Buy American and support American Together we can bring back American Manufacturing https://www.loudproudamerican.shop/Loud Proud American Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoudproudamericanLoud Proud American Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loud_proud_american/Loud Proud American TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@loud_proud_americanLoud Proud American YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmYQtOt6KVURuySWYQ2GWtwThank you for Supporting My American Dream!

Today I'm joined by Cyrée Jarelle Johnson for a deep and thoughtful conversation about spiritual practice, small business, and social media.Together we weave through:How Cyrée crafted his career as a diviner, poet, herbalist + card readerHealing burnout when living with chronic illness and neurodivergenceWhy Instagram has no elders — and all communities are incomplete without eldersDiscernment vs extreme skepticism — and how to navigate the internet's slop eraHow to blend online & IRL business models — including different ways to run a shopThe realities of experiencing transphobic and hateful comments on social mediaHerbal and ecological support for tending to burnout ❤️‍

In this episode of the Level Up Claims Podcast, host Galen Hair sits down with business attorney Matthew Fornaro, a commercial litigation and business law attorney who left Big Law to help small and mid-sized businesses prevent legal disasters before they start.   Matthew shares what business owners get wrong about contracts, compliance, and professional budgeting—and why DIY agreements, AI-generated contracts, and "take it or leave it" commercial leases are ticking time bombs. He also breaks down the mindset shift required to treat your business like a profession—not a hobby—and why proactive legal strategy is always cheaper than reactive litigation.   Highlights: • Why Big Law overstaffing creates hidden inefficiencies • The danger of AI-generated and DIY contracts • Common red flags in commercial leases • Why small businesses must budget for legal professionals • Proactive vs reactive legal strategy • How to build loyalty and long-term client relationships • Managing compliance before enforcement actions begin • Representing lawyers as clients (and why some can't turn it off) • Integrating AI responsibly into a law firm • What it really means to level up as a business owner   Episode Resources: • Connect with Matthew Fornaro • https://fornarolegal.com • Connect with Galen M. Hair • https://insuranceclaimhq.com • hair@hairshunnarah.com • https://levelupclaim.com/

SHOW NOTES This episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Adam dive into: How to identify the AI tools that actually make a difference Simple ways to automate repetitive marketing and reporting tasks And why the future of business success is built on AI plus human collaboration   Whether you're just starting to explore AI or looking for smarter ways to integrate it into your day-to-day, you'll walk away with tangible takeaways to make your work more efficient and effective. Let's dive in. Here's Automation Unplugged with Adam Lewis. To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au345

Christy Krzyzaniak, ClearLedgers LLC, on Bookkeeping, Financial Clarity, and What Small Business Owners Get Wrong About Their Books (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 941) On this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray welcomes Christy Krzyzaniak, founder and owner of ClearLedgers LLC and a Certified Bookkeeper based in Alpharetta. Christy built her firm to […]

A Community Comes Together to Honor Local Excellence Fresh off a Parisian adventure, Kaleigh Fincham returns to the Top of Virginia region with renewed energy and a mission: to orchestrate one of the Chamber's most meaningful events of the year. As Director of Events for the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber, Kaleigh joins host Janet Michael on "The Valley Business Today" to unveil the details of the 2026 Greater Good Awards, presented by Valley Health. More Than Just an Awards Ceremony The Greater Good Awards stand apart from typical business recognition events. Rather than simply celebrating success, this gathering honors the individuals and organizations whose vision, leadership, and dedication actively strengthen the region's quality of life. "This event is a little different," Kaleigh explains. "It really shows the community at its finest and celebrates the outstanding individuals and businesses whose vision, leadership and hard work strengthened the quality of life in our region." Scheduled for March 12th at Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, the semi-formal evening event runs from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. However, prospective attendees need to act quickly—tickets sell out rapidly, and Kaleigh warns that availability may be extremely limited by the time listeners tune in. The Theme: Gathering Gratitude This year's theme, "Gathering Gratitude," reflects the heart of what makes this event special. Kaleigh crafted the concept around the idea of pausing amid busy schedules, growing businesses, and packed calendars to recognize those making genuine differences in the community. "It's about taking that pause in the middle of busy schedules, growing businesses, and full calendars," Kaleigh shares. "Overall, just basically coming together as a community to recognize the people and organizations who are making a real difference here in the top of Virginia region." The theme resonates particularly well with presenting sponsor Valley Health, whose daily work embodies the spirit of community service. Kaleigh draws parallels between the healthcare provider's mission and the awards' purpose: "I think about the hands of doctors and nurses in our communities, the way they show up every single day for our families, our neighbors, and our businesses. It's a powerful example of how people come together in service of something bigger than themselves." Valley Health: A Partner in Community Excellence Chris Rucker, Chief Administrative Officer for Valley Health, joins the conversation to discuss why his organization continues to serve as the presenting sponsor year after year. His perspective reveals the deeper connection between healthcare and community prosperity. "Healthcare is an essential part of every community," Chris emphasizes. "It's an essential part of what determines the success and the livability and the trajectory of growth, the prosperity in every community." As the region's largest employer, Valley Health views its role as extending beyond patient care to include being a positive role model for other organizations. Moreover, Chris highlights Valley Health's extensive community involvement, which often happens behind the scenes. "We have some relationship and some involvement with just about every nonprofit organization in the community," he notes. The organization's mission of serving the community by improving health requires partnerships, collaboration, and avoiding redundancy—values that align perfectly with the Greater Good Awards' celebration of community impact. Eight Categories of Excellence The 2026 Greater Good Awards recognize achievement across eight distinct categories, each highlighting different aspects of community contribution: Small Business of the Year nominees include Capon Valley Bank and Summit Events, representing entrepreneurial spirit and local economic vitality. Large Business of the Year features First Bank, Shenandoah University, and Timber Ridge School - organizations whose scale allows them to make substantial community investments through volunteering, product donations, and strategic partnerships. Nonprofit of the Year acknowledges Access Independence, Winchester CCAP, and NW Works for their dedication to serving community needs. With nine to ten initial nominations, this category demonstrates the region's robust nonprofit sector. Entrepreneur of the Year celebrates Kelly Botta with Smartypants Medicine and Will Sparrow with Blue Bay Tech/Shallow Creek Electrical for their innovative business ventures. Citizen of the Year honors Kimberly Wilt with United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley, Tamara Green from Frederick County Department of Social Services, and Tracy Fitzsimmons of Shenandoah University for their individual community contributions. Emerging Leader Award recognizes rising stars Emily Windle from Winchester City Council Ward Two, Lauren Clouse from Winchester Rescue Mission, and Mario Wisdom with Crystal Clear Business Solutions—individuals just beginning their careers but already making significant impacts. Career Pathways Impact Award, recently renamed from the CTE Award, broadens its scope to include educators, CTE instructors, workforce development professionals, training providers, and community partners. This year's nominees are Devon Smith with Frederick County Public Schools, Michael Diaz with Virginia Works, and Sarah Weinstein with Winchester Public Schools. Finally, the Lifetime Community Impact Award remains shrouded in mystery. Unlike other categories, this recipient's identity stays secret until the evening of the event, creating an element of surprise and anticipation. "You've had to put your time in," Kaleigh notes. "Absolute dedication at its finest." The Selection Process: Rigorous and Fair The path to nomination involves more than popularity. Kaleigh receives nominations from various sources—Chamber members, community members, and even self-nominations from businesses and individuals. However, getting nominated represents just the first step. A committee composed of past Chairs of the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber Board reviews all submissions against specific criteria. These include community involvement, ethics and character, leadership, creativity, growth, and for businesses, economic impact. Additionally, nominees must maintain good standing as Chamber members for at least three years. "We want the meat, not just, 'Oh, this person or this business is great to work for, work with,'" Kaleigh emphasizes. "We want the details." She encourages nominators to provide facts, numbers, and supporting documentation to help the committee make informed decisions. The rigorous process ensures the awards maintain their significance. "They're trying to bring the significance of the award ceremony back," Kaleigh explains, noting that without clear criteria, recognition risks becoming merely a popularity contest. Community Participation Opportunities While sponsorship opportunities have closed, community members can still contribute to the event's success through silent auction donations. Kaleigh welcomes creative contributions beyond standard gift cards—themed baskets, experience packages, travel opportunities, or unique local offerings that will capture bidders' attention. Janet herself offers to create an auction package featuring a guest appearance on "The Valley Today," complete with an orange microphone. Interested donors can contact Kaleigh at kfincham@regionalchamber.biz or call the office at 540-662-4118 extension 16. The deadline for auction item donations is Monday, March 9th, and Kaleigh offers to pick up items directly from businesses. A Partnership That Extends Beyond One Night The conversation reveals that Valley Health's relationship with the Chamber extends far beyond the Greater Good Awards. Kaleigh notes their involvement in Business at the Bloom, the Community Leadership Program, and the recently added Arising Leadership Program for high school juniors and seniors. "We greatly appreciate our partnership with Valley Health because it's not just this event that I've worked with individuals from Valley Health," Kaleigh shares. This ongoing collaboration demonstrates how meaningful partnerships strengthen the entire community ecosystem. Chris acknowledges the value of these diverse connections: "The number of nonprofits demonstrates, in my mind, and I'm sure to your listeners, just how many people are out there that really have care and passion to serve their community and whatever their particular area of interest is." Additional Sponsors Make It Possible While Valley Health serves as presenting sponsor, the event requires support from multiple community partners. Kaleigh gives special recognition to First Citizens Bank, YHB, Zwiesel Fortessa Tableware Solutions, City National Bank, and CNB Bank for their sponsorship commitments. Many of these organizations return year after year, demonstrating their belief in the event's community impact. The Bigger Picture Throughout the conversation, a central theme emerges: recognition matters. Being nominated alone represents a significant honor, as it means someone in the community values your contributions enough to put your name forward. Winning amplifies that recognition, but participation in the evening creates something equally valuable—a collective pause to appreciate the good work happening throughout the region. "Simply showing up is important," Kaleigh reflects. "So the night is about gratitude, but for work being done, for the partnerships being formed, for the impact that happens when we gather together as a community. It's not just an award ceremony. We all come together in gratitude and we, at the end of the day, strengthen as an entire region." As tickets dwindle and the March 12th date approaches, the Top of Virginia region prepares to gather in gratitude, celebrating not just individual achievements but the collective spirit that makes the community thrive. In a world that often rushes past moments of appreciation, the Greater Good Awards create space to pause, recognize, and honor those who make the region a better place to live, work, and grow. For those interested in attending, tickets remain available at regionalchamber.biz, though Kaleigh cautions they won't last long. The dress code calls for semi-formal attire in colors like sage green, gold, and champagne—fitting for an evening dedicated to celebrating the golden contributions of community champions.

You've got the passion. You've got the vision. You've got the people behind you. And you still can't get a yes. Why? Because you're speaking YOUR language — not theirs.This episode of NoBS Wealth hits different. We're back in the studio with consultant and community builder Gabriel Langley, and we're going deep on one of the most overlooked problems destroying small businesses and community-driven projects today — the dangerous gap between hustle and strategy. Gabriel brings a real scenario to the table: a community event center project 10 years in the making. Passionate people. Powerful vision. Strong relationships. And a graveyard of nos from every major funding institution and city official they approached. The problem wasn't the project. The problem was the translation. They were not speaking the language that decision-makers needed to hear in order to say yes.This is the episode that will make you pause and ask yourself the question that most business owners are terrified to answer: Are YOU the reason your business isn't moving? Not because you're not working hard enough — you probably are. But because hustle without positioning is just exhaustion dressed up in motivation. It gets you in the room. It doesn't get you the check. Gabriel breaks down exactly what it took to wake this team up, what the numbers revealed that a decade of passion couldn't, and why the moment those 20 pages hit the table, everything changed. The real aha wasn't the proposal. It was realizing they had outgrown their own playbook.We run through the Noise vs. Truth rapid-fire segment and bust two myths that are holding entrepreneurs hostage right now. Myth one: if the vision is strong enough, someone will fund it. Myth two: keep pushing and it'll eventually work. The truth? Funders in 2026 don't care about your passion. They care about your contingency plan in a volatile market. And if you can't show them that — with data, demographics, job analysis, and projections — your pitch is noise. Doesn't matter how many doors you knock on.Then we walk through Gabriel's powerful 3-step framework that every business owner, founder, or dreamer needs tattooed somewhere visible: Surface the real problem. Make the invisible visible. Create the path forward. These aren't buzzwords. This is the actual process that turned a stalled 10-year dream into a funded, energized, actionable plan. And the urgency of the first 30 days after that clarity hits? That's the momentum that either saves your business or lets it die on the vine.We close this one out honoring Black History Month in a way that goes beyond the surface. Gabriel shares what the month means to him personally — rooted in his father's legacy, the African tradition of storytelling, As always we ask you to comment, DM, whatever it takes to have a conversation to help you take the next step in your journey, reach out on any platform!Twitter, FaceBook, Instagram, Tiktok, LinkedinDISCLOSURE: Awards and rankings by third parties are not indicative of future performance or client investment success. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investment strategies carry profit/loss potential and cannot eliminate investment risks. Information discussed may not reflect current positions/recommendations. While believed accurate, Black Mammoth does not guarantee information accuracy. This broadcast is not a solicitation for securities transactions or personalized investment advice. Tax/estate planning information is general - consult professionals for specific situations. Full disclosures at www.blackmammoth.com.

Are you tired of feeling like you have to show up on Instagram every single day just to get clients?In this episode of Market This, I'm joined by SEO expert Jess Freeman from Jess Creatives, and we're breaking down what actually matters when it comes to SEO for small business owners.If you've ever wondered:Do I really need a blog?What even is a meta description?Is ChatGPT enough for SEO?Does location actually matter?Are Google reviews worth it?This episode is for you.We talk about:Why clear language beats flowery headlines every timeThe biggest SEO mistakes small business owners makeWhy blogging is still relevant (even if you're local)How AI fits into SEO and where it falls shortWhat Google Business Profiles actually doWhy SEO is a long game (and how it gives you freedom from social media pressure)Jess shares practical, doable advice with no tech bro jargon, no overwhelm. Just the stuff that works.SEO might not give you a dopamine hit like a viral reel but it does build a steady machine in the background that keeps working for you.And honestly? That's the kind of marketing we like around here.Connect with Jess: Instagram: @jesscreativesThreads: @jesscreativesWebsite: jesscreatives.comPodcast: The Ordinary Business Podcast This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

According to a recent survey of more than 130 Seattle-area small businesses, conditions are just as bad now, or worse – than during the pandemic. More than 70% say foot traffic is down compared to the same time last year. To learn more we’re joined by Intentionalist CEO Laura Clise who led the survey, and Hana Yohannes, who owns Shikorina Bakeshop on Capitol Hill. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We chase a simple question about maple syrup into a bigger look at quality, trends, and why some “new” things don't outlast the old. Along the way we decode syrup grades, debate leggings, tell some luxury fail stories, and defend real snow days.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, I sit down with Rebecca Tracey, founder of The Uncaged Life, to discuss the common pitfall of purchasing online courses that fail to meet expectations. We uncover the shared frustration among entrepreneurs regarding wasted investments and emphasize the importance of making informed decisions in course selection.Key Takeaways:Course Evaluation: Review past courses to understand why they fell short, focusing on issues like unclear messaging and misalignment with your business stage.Importance of Clarity: Establishing a clear niche and message can significantly enhance the application of strategies learned from courses.Setting Realistic Expectations: Entering courses should be coupled with an understanding that foundational work precedes results; courses won't be a magic fix.Building a Strong Foundation: Prioritize creating a solid business model before moving on to advanced strategies or tactical courses.Peer Insights: Leverage feedback from your network to clarify your business message, which can inform more strategic course investments.Throughout the episode, Rebecca and I stress the significance of distinguishing between appealing marketing and practical solutions. Listeners are encouraged to identify their genuine needs rather than getting sidetracked by flashy promises. With additional resources for beginners and a strong emphasis on community feedback, this episode is a valuable guide for entrepreneurs looking to enhance their decision-making in professional development.Tune in for actionable insights that will help you navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship with clarity and confidence!Chapters:0:00 Introduction to Course Challenges0:58 The Reality of Business Ownership2:33 Meet Rebecca Tracy3:42 Foundations of a Successful Business5:32 The Early Days of Online Business10:34 Missteps in Course Purchases12:20 Clarity and Specificity in Courses13:22 High Expectations and Course Results19:40 Navigating Course Expectations21:06 The Cost of Ineffective Courses23:28 Learning from Past Investments31:33 Pre-Purchase Considerations for Courses38:31 Final Thoughts on Course Selection41:55 Where to Find More from Becca42:36 About Startup SocietyRebecca Tracey's Links:Instagram: @theuncagedlifeFree Facebook community, Uncaged Lifers: https://theuncagedlife.com/communityMore from Becca on this topic: https://theuncagedlife.com/burnedGet Becca's free guide to choosing a niche: https://theuncagedlife.com/nichingJoin Startup Society at: https://startupsociety.comFREE 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/small-business-101-free-opt-inWrite a Profit Plan for Your Business : http://gillianperkins.com/free-profit-plan Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.Have you already started your business, but it isn't generating consistent income? Schedule a free, 30-minute strategy session with our team to get unstuck!Work with Gillian Perkins:Apply for $100K Mastermind: https://gillianperkins.com/100k-mastermind Get your online biz started with Startup Society: https://startupsociety.com Learn more about Gillian: https://gillianperkins.com Instagram: @GillianZPerkins

Send a textMost know him as @ nample all over social media but there is so much more to our longtime friend Bruno Friedmann hailing from Germany. We talk shop of course and encourage everyone to stay to the end to learn about Bruno's escape from communism and the start of a very fruitful career in the trades. To Bruno, thank you for joining us. Your friends, Andy & Eric.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

In this episode of The Katie Lance Podcast, I'm taking you behind the scenes of a recent live #CoffeeWithKatie session inside the #GetSocialSmart Academy.We did real-time Instagram hot seats. Real Realtors. Real profiles. Real feedback. And the themes that came up? They were too important not to share.If you've ever wondered:Is my Instagram profile clear enough?Why am I not getting traction?Should I be doing more video?Are carousels better than Reels?Am I overthinking this?This episode is for you. These are simple, practical tweaks that can instantly make your Instagram more searchable, more strategic, and more effective  -  without adding more work to your plate.Additional resources:Join the #GetSocialSmart AcademyDownload the Free Content GridGrab the Instagram MasterclassSubscribe on YouTubeFollow on InstagramBook Katie to Speak or Train Your TeamQuestions? DM me! 

Databox is an easy-to-use Analytics Platform for growing businesses. We make it easy to centralize and view your entire company's marketing, sales, revenue, and product data in one place, so you always know how you're performing. Learn More About DataboxSubscribe to our newsletter for episode summaries, benchmark data, and moreScaling a company doesn't break because of a lack of ideas, but because instinct doesn't scale.In this episode of Move the Needle, Chris Savage (CEO & Co-Founder of Wistia) walks through the evolution from founder-driven decision-making to building a real operating system for scale.From choosing a single ICP when growth was already strong…- To installing a tri-annual planning cadence- To distributing ownership across teams- To using AI to compress execution cyclesThis is a masterclass in turning momentum into predictable growth. If you're a SaaS founder or GTM leader trying to scale without chaos, this episode is for you.

Here's the thing.If you're like most healing arts professionals, you sell your time.Five sessions. Ten sessions. Maybe a package here or there.But what if you focused on your expertise, and the transformation your clients get when they work with you? What if you designed your practice around that instead?In this conversation, Joanna Sapir and I explore what it means to create structured client programs — intentional journeys that guide someone from where they are to where they want to be — while also bringing more clarity and predictability to your income.If you're tired of selling hours for dollars, and looking for a more creative, robust way to design your private practice, this episode may open up a whole new way of thinking.In this episode, you'll hear…The difference between a session package and a truly transformational program. (Such a great shift to make…)How front-end and back-end offers can support both immediate results and long-term healing (and lead to healthy, sustainable client relationships over time.)Why narrowing in on your ideal client actually strengthens your work. (Hmmm…-where have you heard that before?

Ryan McMaken traces the rise and squeeze of America's small business economy, showing how tariffs, industrial policy, the Fed, and “too big to fail” bailouts systematically tilt the field toward big corporations and away from independent entrepreneurs and the middle class.Recorded in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on February 21, 2026. Special thanks to Michael and Beverley Starkey and Gil Robinson for sponsoring this event.

Football quarterbacks often call audibles because they read the playing field and see something that could damage their play calling. We are no different in business. Sometimes we need to call an audible in order to reshape our approach to something we see when we read the room. Do you read the room routinely? Do you sometimes reshape your approach after reading the room?Support the show

In a recent episode of the HR business marketing podcast, A Better HR Business, Ben and his guest, Val Esway, founder of Work with Val, talk about the challenges of hiring, compliance, and employee management for small and growing businesses across the US and Canada. Val Esway partners with founders and leadership teams to build the recruiting and HR foundations necessary for sustainable growth. With a background spanning early-stage startups, e-commerce brands, and agencies, she has served as a People & Talent Manager, Director of Operations, and Chief of Staff. This unique trajectory allows her to bridge the gap between human-centric HR and the gritty operational realities founders face daily. Val has completed over 150 projects focused on hiring strategy, HR infrastructure, and people operations. She specializes in helping scaling businesses move away from "firefighting" toward practical, hands-on systems that support first hires and beyond. Val brings a grounded, collaborative approach to every engagement, ensuring leaders can make confident people decisions as their teams evolve. Val loves sharing her expertise via talks and training sessions. Popular topics include compliance basics, choosing the right HR tools, and navigating the complexities of pay structures (e.g., W-2 vs. 1099). She's happy to tailor discussions to what founders and business owners need most. You'll hear practical strategies for client acquisition, running a workplace consulting business, and packaging consulting offers. Whether you identify as HR, workplace, L&D, OD, recruitment, or people & culture, you'll discover real stories and actionable advice to attract clients, win contracts, and grow sustainably. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to get more clients as a consultant through referrals and personalized service Insights into running a workplace consulting business for smaller and younger companies, including compliance, recruitment, and team development Val Esway's journey, including lessons from cleaning up compliance issues, helping founders make their first hires, and developing high-touch HR solutions Episode highlights: Val Esway's background and the types of clients Work with Val serves (00:47) Common HR challenges faced by small and young businesses, especially those without dedicated HR staff (01:12) Navigating performance management and terminations thoughtfully and compliantly (02:42) The impact of terminations on the wider team and why respect matters (03:25) Recruitment support: Helping founders clarify what role they truly need and managing the hiring process end-to-end (05:11) Special considerations for e-commerce founders transitioning from agency relationships to hiring in-house staff (08:01) Popular training topics for business owners, including compliance basics and choosing HR systems (10:01) Common mistakes in hiring, pay structure, and contractor versus employee classification (12:09) Why many growing businesses rely on referrals and the value of a personalized, high-touch consultancy (16:03) Resources & Links Mentioned: Work with Val website: www.valesway.com Val's LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/valesway Check out this B2B podcast launch service. About The A Better HR Business Podcast The A Better HR Business shares strategies, tactics, success stories, and more about marketing for HR consultancies and marketing for HR tech companies, and how to get more clients. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don't miss future episodes. For show notes and to see details of our previous guests, check out the podcast page here: www.GetMoreHRClients.com/Podcast HR BUSINESS GROWTH RESOURCES Get the new book - Grow A Successful HR Business Your Way Launch your own business podcast: B2B Podcast Agency VISIT GET MORE HR CLIENTS Want more clients for your HR-related consultancy or HR Tech business? Visit the Get More HR Clients website for articles, newsletters, podcasts, videos, resources, and more at www.getmorehrclients.com.

This week on Off the Shelf, Ken Dodds, executive vice president and general counsel for Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement, joins host Roger Waldron to discuss some of the most important small business rules impacting procurement. In the wake of the Department of War's memo on pass-throughs and reviewing set-asides over $20 million, Dodds shares his insights on framework and limitations on subcontracting under small business set-asides contracts and the government's corresponding focus when reviewing subcontracts under set-asides and want constitutes a potential pass-through situation. He provides the nuances inherit in these rules that play an understated role in management of small business programs. Finally Dodds gives his thoughts on a host of current procurement topics, including GSA's Reseller RFI, commercial practices and the RFO. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How Motherhood Reshaped An Entrepreneur's Vision And Sparked A Jewelry BrandWhat if the most meaningful brands are built in the quiet—between nap schedules, hard choices, and a faith you can't always see? Kayla of Von T Jewelry joins us to share how a life in diamonds, a move across states, and the loss of a daughter named Hope shaped a company rooted in legacy, not speed. From her first retail job to gemology school and years in manufacturing, she learned why craftsmanship matters and how quality outlasts every trend. Then motherhood arrived and rewrote the rules: success became service, integrity, and growth that fits inside family.We get honest about the unsexy side of entrepreneurship—forming an LLC, taxes, bookkeeping, and deciding when to hire versus contract. Kayla shows how building an A‑team and a weekly women's networking sisterhood turned isolation into momentum. We dig into her decision to create a demi-fine line under$100 so women can wear durable, everyday staples, and the two-year wrestle before adding permanent jewelry. That “maybe too trendy” risk unlocked deeper relationships, new engagement-ring clients, and the confidence to sign her first studio lease. It's a masterclass in discernment: research deeply, choose premium tools, and take the smallest brave step.You'll also hear how she holds harmony at home and work: a 5 a.m. routine powered by Mel Robbins' countdown, family dinners with conversation jars, and simple marriage rituals that keep connection alive. Looking ahead, her vision is clear—measured expansion, the same intimate experience, and a brand that keeps faith and family at the center.If you've been debating a scary next step, this conversation will nudge you forward. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs courage today, and leave a review to help more mompreneurs find this show.Connect with Kayla:Contact the Host, Kelly Kirk: Email: info.ryh7@gmail.com Get Connected/Follow: The Hue Drop Newsletter: Subscribe Here IG: @ryh_pod & @thekelly.tanke.kirk Facebook: Reclaiming Your Hue Facebook Page CAKES Affiliate Link: KELLYKIRK Credits: Editor: Joseph Kirk Music: Kristofer Tanke Thanks for listening & cheers to Reclaiming Your Hue!

Ken Goodrich bought his father's struggling HVAC company, only to have the IRS seize everything and 30 employees quit overnight. Left with just $3,000 and two technicians, Ken had to learn how a company actually works. Today, he has bought and sold over 250 companies and achieved a high nine-figure exit. In this episode, Ken shares his ultimate playbook for Business buying and capitalizing on the "Silver Tsunami" of retiring baby boomers.He breaks down exactly why the real money is in "boring" Home Services rather than flashy tech startups. You will learn his exact mathematical formula for evaluating a company's worth, why Service & Consulting businesses are prime targets for private equity, and how to execute a 1,000-day plan to 10x your company's value. Ken also reveals his unusual Entrepreneurship strategy of buying up phone numbers from dead businesses to generate millions in leads.The "Silver Tsunami" is creating a massive opportunity to buy retiring baby boomers' businesses with established brand equity.Cut a target company's historical customer base in half during your evaluation because you will lose customers during the transition.Target companies priced accurately or above market, as underpriced businesses attract budget-conscious customers who flee when prices are corrected.Buying a bankrupt competitor's dormant phone number can instantly generate revenue through existing service call volume.Build a strict 1,000-day plan with a budget and schedule before acquiring a company to ensure a highly profitable exit.Tags:  Business buying, Entrepreneurship, Home Services, HVAC, Goettl, Business scaling.Resources:Grow your business today:  https://links.upflip.com/the-business-startup-and-growth-blueprint-podcast Connect with Ken: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-d-goodrich-ba580427

SummaryOn this episode of Startup Junkies, hosts Caleb Talley and Daniel Konnce sit down with Louis Diesel, director of Startup Junkie Asia. Based in Seoul, South Korea, Louis shares the journey of connecting Korean startups to the US market, emphasizing Korea's powerhouse status in public and private investment for entrepreneurial growth.What began in 2019 as an idea to build on the Fuel Accelerator's success resulted in a dedicated program helping Korean tech companies find a foothold in America. Over time, the initiative expanded to include consumer brands and media ventures, reflecting the evolving interests of the US market.The episode recounts Startup Junkie's partnerships with organizations like the Korea International Trade Association and the Korea Venture Business Association, and details the structure of their cross-border accelerators. Notably, Louis highlights the significance of Northwest Arkansas as a launchpad, thanks to its concentration of enterprise giants like Walmart, Tyson, and J.B. Hunt. Listeners also hear about the program's presence at CES 2024, where Korean startups dominated the international floor. With continued momentum and expansion beyond Korea, the team is uniquely positioned to foster groundbreaking collaborations between Asia and America. Listen today!Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(06:26) Korean Tech and Consumer Brands(13:20) Establishing a Korean Presence at Global Events(15:12) Startup Junkies Support Position(20:32) Northwest Arkansas's Unique Opportunities(26:37) Cross-Border Success Stories(31:18) Closing ThoughtsLinksCaleb TalleyDaniel KoonceStartup JunkieStartup Junkie YouTubeLouis Diesel

The scoreboard is changing on Instagram.While likes and follower count once ruled the platform, success in 2026 is being measured differently. Instagram is rewarding the content that creates real conversations and gets shared. In this episode Kristina is walking you through how to create more sharable content by joining the conversations that are already happening around you!Tune in to learn:Why content goes viral in context, not in a vacuum.The emotional triggers behind what makes people actually share content.How to identify trending conversations in your niche (and why it matters).Real ways to make your posts feel like a “me too” moment.How being bold and timely helps you become a thought leader in your space.Tips to find inspiration using Threads, TikTok trends, and Instagram searchShares are signals to the algorithm that say ‘this matters', join the conversations happening in your niche and add your own experience and expertise!Post your bold take this week and tag @thesocialsnippet!Mentioned in Episode:Why Hashtags Are DeadDo Trial Reels Work?Lessons From Alex Hormozi's Book LaunchWork with AM Creative for your next big business move!LinkedIn Starter PackWork with The Social Snippet!Join The High Vibe Women Online CommunitySend me a text!Support the showFor Your Information: • Host your podcast on Buzzsprout! •Join The High Vibe Women Online Community! • Join our favourite scheduling platform Later • FLODESK Affiliate Code | 25% off your first year! Don't forget to come say hi to us on Instagram @thesocialsnippet, join the Weekly Snippet or follow us on any social media platform! Website . Instagram . Facebook . Linkedin

Real talk: I can be kind of avoidant when it comes to feedback.I don't love giving it. I prefer not receiving it.But sometimes that lands me in sticky interpersonal situations. …Maybe you can relate?If yes, you're going to love this Clubhouse episode, because I'm sharing a follow-up to my conversation with Morgan Evans — where we go through three real-life (and real-biz) examples of how to navigate tough conversations.Tune in to this preview as we talk through: How to offer feedback when a service provider isn't getting the assignment

From Corporate Boardrooms to Small Business Breakthroughs: Ingredients for Success with James OrsiniStay On Course Podcast | Host: Julie Riga | Guest: James OrsiniWhat does it really take to build a thriving small business and how do the lessons of the Fortune 500 world translate to the entrepreneurial journey? In this candid and inspiring conversation, Julie Riga sits down with seasoned executive James Orsini to unpack the mindset shifts, operational disciplines, and leadership principles that separate businesses that scale from those that stall. Whether you are a founder, a corporate executive ready to pivot, or a small business owner in the thick of the grind, this episode is packed with transformative insights to help you stay on course.From Corporate Boardrooms to Small Business Breakthroughs: Ingredients for Success with James OrsiniAbout James OrsiniJames Orsini is a seasoned executive leader with more than 35 years of experience as President, CEO, COO, and CFO across high-growth organizations. After an 11-year run at VaynerX alongside Gary Vaynerchuk, where he helped grow the company from $42M to $350M and 2,000 people across 15 offices, James now advises founders and small business leaders through Vyve, Factotum, and J & J Consulting Services, co-founded with his wife Joanne.Fun Fact: James is a proud Italian-American whose ultimate comfort food is his wife's Sunday pasta sauce, slow-cooked for hours every single week.Ingredients for SuccessFocus and Strategic Prioritization Entrepreneurs rarely run out of ideas; they run out of focus. James advocates for working backwards from your endgame and using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize what truly moves the needle each quarter.Knowing When to Hire and Delegate Founders who hold on too tight risk choking their own growth. Tracking yellow hustle time versus green paid time on your calendar reveals exactly when it is time to bring in your first hire and step fully into your leadership role.Integrity Above All Doing the right thing with your employees, vendors, and partners, even when nobody is watching, creates a reputation that outlives any single business venture. James calls this the most enduring ingredient for success.Community and Accountability Leadership can be lonely. Investing in a mastermind, coaching program, or peer group compresses your learning curve and gives you the sounding board every leader needs. Iron sharpens iron.Culture as Your Competitive Advantage VaynerMedia maintained a 17% voluntary turnover rate in an industry averaging over 35%. Hire for kindness and empathy first, then teach the skills. Culture is your most sustainable edge.Memorable Quotes"Doing the right thing is always the right thing, even when people are not looking.""Some founders squeeze the baby so tight, they choke it. Know when to let go and move to the work only you can do.""Work backwards from the legacy you want to leave. That clarity drives every decision."Key TakeawaysTransition from operator to leader. Work on the business, not in it. This mindset shift is the turning point for every founder ready to scale.Build your network with gratitude and empathy. Relationships cultivated with care become your greatest long-term asset.Stay open to pivoting. The business you build two years from now will look nothing like what you imagined today, and that is a strength.Connect with James OrsiniLinkedIn: James OrsiniVyve: @Revive (social handles)Factotum: factotum.comJ & J Consulting Services (LinkedIn)Connect with Julie RigaStay On Course PodcastBefore I Lead Programjulieriga.com/leadSubscribe to Stay On Course wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with every founder and leader who is ready to build something that lasts.#StayOnCourse #LeadershipMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BeforeILead

Send a textIn this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we explore The Tao of Success — the true path to building a sustainable and resilient small business.But what does “Tao” mean? Simply put, it means “the way.” And the real way to success isn't flashy marketing, overnight growth, or natural talent. It's patience, persistence, and steady improvement.Too many entrepreneurs believe they need to be the smartest, most connected, or most experienced person in the room. The truth? Talent will not replace persistence. Education alone will not guarantee success. What separates thriving small business owners from those who quit is their ability to keep going — calmly, consistently, and strategically — even when results feel slow.In this episode, you'll learn:✔ What “The Tao of Success” really means for entrepreneurs ✔ Why patience is a competitive advantage in business ✔ The difference between persistence and stubbornness ✔ How consistency reshapes your business over time ✔ Three practical action steps you can take this weekIf you're a small business owner feeling stuck in the “messy middle,” this episode will remind you that steady growth beats fast burnout.

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Ask Me Your SEO Questions!An SEO case study today for all the small business owners who want to learn exactly how I go about working on clients' websites just like yours to grow their organic traffic and increase conversions.  Grow your business with SEO by using the exact strategy I use with multimillion dollar companies: The Complete Beginner's SEO Course Is Here Enroll Here!Head to www.theplansuccess.com where you can get started on your SEO journey for free with some great free resources like the beginner's small business starter guide!And if you're not already, follow me over on Instagram for easy SEO tips!Website: theplansuccess.comInstagram - @theplansuccess

Salon Boss Mastermind Waitlist: https://www.laurenlappin.com.au/salon-boss-waitlistIn this week's episode Lauren shares her Top Tips for Avoiding Burnout in your Small Business.Lauren's Top Tips for Avoiding Burnout in Business. 1) Revisit Your Why. Ask yourself the following questions: Why did you start your Business?Why do you continue to operate your Business?Do your daily tasks still align with your Why?2) Set Boundaries & Stick to Them. (Make Your Default Answer NO). (09:15). 3) Always Have Something Meaningful to Look Forward To. (13:30).4) Get Organised and Get Important Tasks Scheduled and Off Your Plate (and off your mind). (17:00).5) Move Your Body Every Day. (20:30).Ep. 83. Time Management Hacks for Peak Productivity: https://the-lash-business-lounge.captivate.fm/episode/ep-83-5-time-management-hacks-for-peak-productivity....Rate and Review the Show in Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-lash-business-lounge/id1609510128Rate the Show in Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0xvJ8MNZM9cbjYBGcMDtb8?si=b23764e4d0ed4b59Lauren on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenlappin_Allure's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allure_lashbeautybar....This Episode was Recorded and Produced by Josh Liston at JCAL Media Group - https://www.jcaldigital.org/podcast-editing

On our radar this week… “The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.” George Orwell wrote those words 76 years ago in “1984” – seemingly the operating manual for Donald Trump's administration. In fact, Trump used those exact words in a campaign speech and has lived by them ever since.  George Orwell also wrote: “Every record has been destroyed or falsified, every book rewritten, every picture has been repainted, every statue and street building has been renamed, every date has been altered. And the process is continuing day by day and minute by minute. History has stopped. Nothing exists except an endless present in which the Party is always right.” Every day is an exercise in taking attention away from the growing coverup of the Epstein files and financial corruption, with Trump apparently terrified that his sordid decades-long history as a sexual predator will finally catch up with him.  It's a stark contrast with England, where the Andrew formerly known as “Prince” is celebrated his 66th birthday in police custody as England actually holds the powerful accountable for the Epstein-led sexual abuse of children, while in Epstein's home country the White House continues to coverup the crimes of the rich and powerful … very possibly a group that includes Trump. Case in point: the Department of Justice spoke four separate times to a woman who credibly accused Donald Trump of having sex with a 13-year-old he met through Jeffrey Epstein—but most accusations against the president appear to have been removed from the government's documents on the alleged sex trafficker.  A part of Trump's defense is also right out of “1984”: “Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.” That means silencing his critics including the late night comedians who, in the tradition of Will Rogers, lampoon him non-stop. But the tactic is backfiring: Kimmel's banishment lasted a few days, and Stephen Colbert has become even more focused in the last weeks of his days on CBS. The made-for-YouTube video of Colbert with Texas Senate candidate James Talarico has racked up more than 7.5 million views which is triple the Colbert TV show ratings. And Talarico raised a staggering $2.5-million in the day following the incident. Trump wants everything possible named after him. Now, he apparently wants to profit from those efforts: his company has filed papers to trademark use of his name at airports even as his Florida fans in the state's legislature pass a bill to rename Palm Beach International Airport in his honor and he pressures Congress to rename Dulles Airport. If signed into law, the Palm Beach International change would cost the airport $5.5 million to remake signs, uniforms, promotional products, equipment, and more, according to Palm Beach County's department of airports. Also on our radar The Supreme Court kicked off another Trump tantrum by axing his tariffs. The war between Dozing Donald and the court he thought he controlled is now started. Trump got a little nap time during the initial meeting of his made-up Institute for Peace, nodding off repeatedly in front of the world leaders who had ponied up the $1-billion membership fee. Before nap time, Trump pledged a $10-billion U.S. contribution to what amounts to his personal slush fund – ignoring the constitutional requirement that spending needed to be authorized by Congress. Governor Whitmer attended the Munich International Security Conference. At the conference, she joined AOC, and Trump's NATO ambassador on a panel discussion where she was highly critical of Trump's economic war with Canada has driven our neighbors to the north to get cozy with China. Independent gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan has a new problem. His campaign claimed union endorsements he hasn't received. It's a near certainty that the Service Employees International Union and the United Auto Workers will ultimately endorse Jocelyn Benson. Benson, meanwhile, picked up the endorsement of the Michigan Nurses Association. Mark has a new neighbor. ICE has opened a regional headquarters next door to my office … and also is opening a detention center in Romulus. Nobody's happy about this except Stephen Miller. Is this a staging area for masked ICE agents outside Democratic-leaning voting sites in southeast Michigan this November? And we can't unwatch the incredibly insane 90-second, taxpayer-funded video of RFK Jr. and Kid Rock flexing and sweating, apparently to promote physical fitness. RFK thankfully did not include snorting cocaine from toilet seats as part of his workout regimen. On a far more serious note, we recognize the unique contributions of two men we lost this week: the internationally known Rev. Jesse Jackson, and one of the “good guys” who made Michigan State government work better over his decades of service, our friend Bill Gnodtke. On Tuesday, west Michigan Congresswoman Hilary Scholten went inside an ICE concentration camp. Scholten, who was an immigration attorney before being elected to Congress, joins this week’s conversation. Congresswoman Scholten is a fourth-generation West Michigander. Prior to her election in 2022 she was an immigration attorney who served in the U.S. Department of Justice.  Scholten began her own career as a social worker, working with people affected by issues of housing and homelessness. During this time, she worked with individuals in the LGBTQ community who were facing homelessness and housing insecurity—often because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.  Congresswoman Scholten obtained her law degree from the University of Maryland Thurgood Marshall School of Law, and then went on to clerk for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit in their special unit focused on immigration issues. Following her clerkship, she joined the Justice Department through the Attorney General Honors Program, where she continued to work on matters of immigration and civil rights. In Congress she serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the House Committee on Small Business. We’re now on YouTube every week! Click here to subscribe. A Republic, If You Can Keep It is sponsored by ©Clay Jones/claytooz.com  

Nearly a year ago, Trump announced his “Liberation Day” tariffs, slapping high import taxes on goods from countries around the world. The sweeping tariffs hurt the New York-based wine importer VOS Selections, one of several plaintiffs that challenged the Trump administration in court, arguing the president lacked the ability to impose the tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act.Today, the Supreme Court agreed, ruling that many of President Trump's tariffs are unconstitutional. NPR's Scott Detrow talks with NPR Chief Economics Correspondent Scott Horsley and NPR Legal Affairs Correspondent Nina Totenberg about the court's decision and what it means for businesses and consumers.For sponsor-free episodes of Consider This, sign up for Consider This+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org.  Email us at considerthis@npr.org.This episode was produced by Tyler Bartlam, with audio engineering from Ted Mebane. It was edited by Christopher Intagliata, Courtney Dorning, Scott Horsley and Krishnadev Calamur. Our executive producer is Sami Yenigun.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Preview for later today. Gene Marks explains that despite administration claims, the rising costs of tariffs currently fall directly onto the shoulders of American consumers and frustrated small businesses.1910 

Gene Marks reports that despite a disappointing fourth-quarter GDP growth rate of 1.4 percent and sluggishness in shipping and chemical sectors, small businesses remain surprisingly resilient with optimism above average and continued hiring plans even as AI integration remains limited. 31949 STORK CLUB

"I'm back baby." - Brian Luebben (me, quoting me)Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses?