Podcasts about smbs

Mindbodygreen has built a global reputation as a go-to destination for wellness — combining expert content, functional nutrition supplements, and a thriving community to help millions live healthier, more balanced lives. But behind the scenes, this SMB is also leaning into the future of technology.In this episode of The Future Of Wellness, Powered by Gen AI , Tim Glenister shares how Mindbodygreen is moving Generative AI into production to streamline content creation, personalize customer experiences, and scale their mission in entirely new ways. We dig into the why, the how, and the lessons learned — plus what the future of AI means for the wellness industry and other SMBs looking to innovate.If you're curious about the intersection of wellness, media, and AI, or looking for practical inspiration on how smaller businesses can punch above their weight with Gen AI, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.Visit Mindbodygreen : https://tc.netlify.mindbodygreen.com/AWS Hosts: Malini Chatterjee & Priyanka SadhuEmail Your Feedback: rethinkpodcast@amazon.com

Canada is very well known for its coalition loyalty programs and proprietary programs that expand earn and redemption opportunities through strong partnerships. RMG Loyalty, nearing its 25th year, specializes in small business loyalty solutions and manages partnerships that link SMBs to major rewards programs. Specifically, they have managed SMB programs for the AIR MILES rewards program and More Rewards, which has extended the earning opportunities for members of these programs.Kate Booth is the President of RMG Loyalty and she has been instrumental in creating successful customer programs, consumer and small business, for RMG Loyalty's clients. We will get her perspective on the value of B2B/SMB loyalty programs and how consumer programs can benefit from an integrated strategy that considers both consumers and small business owners.Hosted by Aaron DauphineeShow notes:1) Kate Booth2) RMG Loyalty3) AIR MILES rewards program4) More Rewards5) Book recommendations: The Science of Scaling

Is the increasing investment in marketing by SMBs a sign of growth and optimism, or is it masking a deeper struggle with confidence and effectiveness? Agility requires not only adapting to the rapid pace of technological change but also understanding the core challenges faced by your customers, like SMBs struggling to measure marketing ROI. It also demands a willingness to simplify complex tools and processes, empowering businesses to achieve more with less. Today, we're going to talk about the evolving landscape of marketing for small and medium-sized businesses, the challenges they face, and how B2B marketers can become essential partners in their success. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Frank Vella, CEO at Constant Contact. About Frank Vella I am the CEO of Constant Contact, a comprehensive digital and ecommerce marketing platform that makes it simple and effective for a business to market or sell their idea in today's complex online marketing world. We strive to anticipate our customers' needs and provide them with the tools and support they need to improve their businesses. Because when they succeed, we succeed.Prior to joining Constant Contact, I built best-in-class operations at various sized tech firms across the globe, including top-tier companies like Microsoft, GE Capital, HP Enterprise and Xerox. I have led companies through growth, transformation and successful exits while remaining focused on building a terrific culture and keeping a company's product and presence ahead of the crowd. I'm a proud Canadian expat now living in New York City, and in my free time I enjoy traveling with my family. Frank Vella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-vella/ Resources Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow Catch the future of e-commerce at eTail Palm Springs, Feb 23-26 in Palm Springs, CA. Go here for more details: https://etailwest.wbresearch.com/ Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Grab your copy of the 2025 Customer Experience Benchmarks Report: everafter.ai/benchmarkIn this episode of the Customer Success Pro podcast, host Anika Zubair speaks with Alana Stoltzfus, a leader in digital customer success at Okta. They discuss the evolution of customer success, the importance of digital growth, and how Okta's Success Hub enhances customer experience through personalized recommendations. Alana shares insights on the tools and systems that power their digital success plans, the challenges faced in data management, and the lessons learned from building a scalable customer success program. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the importance of delivering value to customers.Chapters00:00 Introduction 02:52 Alana Stoltzfuss: Journey into Digital Customer Success05:46 The Evolution of Digital Customer Success at Okta08:43 Understanding Digital Growth and Customer Segmentation11:50 The Success Hub: Enhancing Customer Experience15:04 Personalization and Business Goals in Customer Success17:59 The Role of Digital Customer Success in Business Growth27:58 Tailored Customer Experiences for Gold and Silver Clients30:06 Personalized Communication and Value Realization32:29 Differentiated Messaging for Admins and Executives34:38 The Importance of Personalization in Customer Success36:36 Tools and Systems Powering Digital Success42:41 Lessons Learned and Future Directions in Customer SuccessConnect with Anika Zubair:Website: https://thecustomersuccesspro.com/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikazubair/RevUP Academy: https://thecustomersuccesspro.com/revupConnect with Alana Stoltzfus:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanastoltzfus/Alana leads the Automation & Scaled Insights team at Okta, where she drives efforts to increase customer adoption, retention, and growth at scale as part of the Digital Success motion. Through the delivery of data and insights to customers and customer-facing teams, as well as AI-powered experiences, she has enabled Okta to serve all customers from SMBs (via self-service) to its largest enterprise customers, not just to scale but also to more effectively drive better customer outcomes through deeply personalized experiences. Prior to Okta, Alana worked in roles across customer success, voice of customer, and digital success, most recently at LinkedIn and Atlassian. She lives in the Bay Area with her husband and 2 sons.Grab our FREE resources here: https://thecustomersuccesspro.com/resources Want to be our next podcast guest? Apply here: https://www.thecustomersuccesspro.com/podcast-guest Book Anika as a speaker at your next team event: https://www.thecustomersuccesspro.com/team-event

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in cyber attacks is prompting small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to adopt managed detection and response (MDR) services and explore autonomous security operations centers (SOCs). Research from TechAisle indicates that awareness of MDR among SMBs increased from 39% in 2023 to 61% in 2025, with 89% of mid-market firms prioritizing cyber resilience. This shift is driven by the need for effective security operations that do not rely on in-house expertise, as AI-driven threats evolve faster than traditional defenses can respond.A report from UpGuard highlights the prevalence of shadow AI, revealing that 68% of security leaders use unauthorized AI tools, with 90% of them bypassing corporate governance. This disconnect between security protocols and employee behavior underscores the need for organizations to adapt their governance strategies. Additionally, a significant cyber attack attributed to a Chinese state-sponsored group demonstrated AI's capability to autonomously conduct reconnaissance and data exfiltration, marking a shift in threat actor tactics.Retail executives are increasingly concerned about their employees' ability to identify genuine cyber threats, with 44% reporting a rise in cyber attacks. Despite this awareness, only 25% feel prepared for AI-driven incidents. The report emphasizes the necessity for retailers to adopt a resilience-focused approach, including improved application security and identity controls, to mitigate risks associated with sophisticated cyber threats. This highlights a broader trend across industries where reliance on employee training alone is insufficient to combat evolving threats.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs), these developments present both challenges and opportunities. The increasing complexity of cyber threats necessitates a shift towards operational models that prioritize continuous verification and behavioral analysis over traditional detection methods. MSPs can leverage this moment to guide organizations in developing effective cybersecurity strategies that address the preparedness gap, ensuring that clients are equipped to handle the evolving landscape of AI-driven attacks. Four things to know today00:00 AI-Powered Attacks Accelerate as SMB Security Transitions Toward Autonomous SOC Models, Exposing a Governance Gap Around Shadow AI06:43 Retail Executives Report Rising AI-Driven Threats and Low Preparedness, Underscoring the Shift from User Training to Resilience08:50 Stealthier North Korean Campaigns and a Fragmented Ransomware Ecosystem Signal Rising Detection Challenges for MSPs11:49 Cork's New Vantage Platform Targets Unified MSP Risk Validation — But Its Visibility Metrics Demand Scrutiny This is the Business of Tech.     Supported by:  https://mailprotector.com/mspradio/

400 episodes 700k downloads (most coming recently) Raised money for acquisitions for amazing entrepreneurs. Spoken at events.Thanks everyone.  6 weeks left in 2025. Let's get after it.   I have 2 afternoons wide open, you can grab a time in the show notes.  15 min slots.https://cal.com/ryan-condie/thanks       SMBs are the biggest target for cyber attacks. Protect your business with Inzo Technologies. Check out....www.inzotechnologies.com, I-N-Z-O, or email Nick directly at nick@inzotechnologies.com.   15-Min call slots - Free - https://cal.com/ryan-condie/thanks   Join the How to Buy a Business Cohort - Dec 2025https://www.letsbuyabusiness.com/   Sourcing List:https://www.letsbuyabusiness.com/source

The recent partnership between OpenAI and Search Kings, a digital marketing firm, aims to provide ChatGPT services to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), particularly in the home services sector. This collaboration is designed to facilitate the integration of artificial intelligence into SMB operations, addressing the challenges these businesses face in adapting to AI technologies. The initiative highlights a shift in focus towards rapid AI adoption, which may lead to operational instability if not managed properly, as it lacks clear governance and standards.Supporting data from the 2026 State of IT report indicates that IT budgets are projected to increase by 11% year-on-year, with 55% of organizations planning to allocate more funds to IT, primarily driven by a heightened focus on cybersecurity. Despite this growth, over half of IT leaders report insufficient internal resources to address issues effectively or foster innovation. The report also reveals that 60% of organizations are now relying on managed service providers (MSPs) to oversee their data infrastructure, reflecting a significant shift in how businesses are approaching their IT needs.Additionally, the server virtualization market is experiencing disruption following Broadcom's acquisition of VMware, prompting many customers to seek alternatives and develop exit strategies from their current vendors. This situation presents an opportunity for MSPs to engage in broader discussions about modernization and technical debt reduction, rather than merely facilitating migrations. The tablet market is also stabilizing, with a notable decline in shipments, indicating a shift towards predictable refresh cycles rather than explosive growth.For MSPs and IT service leaders, these developments underscore the importance of positioning themselves as strategic partners in their clients' digital transformations. As organizations grapple with the complexities of AI integration and modernization, there is a clear opportunity for MSPs to lead in governance and operational efficiency. By stepping into roles that facilitate organizational capacity and strategic alignment, MSPs can capture the growing budgets and demand for innovative IT solutions.Four things to know today 00:00 Rising Budgets, Overwhelmed IT Teams, and Sovereignty Demands Signal a Market Shift Toward Modernization — and a Strategic Opening for MSPs06:07 Surging Tech Hiring, Massive Workforce Reconfiguration, and Undefined AI Ownership Point to a Single Trend: Organizations Need Structure, Not Just Tools09:57 VMware Upheaval and Tablet Market Slowdown Both Point to One Trend: IT Providers Must Shift From Tools to Transformation13:20 OpenAI's SearchKings Deal Shows AI Entering SMBs Through Marketing, Exposing Governance Gaps and Creating Opportunity for IT Providers This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by: https://try.auvik.com/dave-switchhttps://scalepad.com/dave/

While Target, Kroger, and Walmart and other bit stores create their own retail media networks, Paypal plans to one-up them all by democratizing things. Corey & Gordon offer their thoughts on Paypal's plan to facilitate ad placement on millions of SMB websites, sending ad revenue to those small businesses. The episode features an interview with the executive heading it up -- Dr. Mark Grether, SVP and General Manager of Paypal Ads. The hosts conclusion: Hmmm, this might actually work. Stay in the loop with all things Borrell when you join our Research Alert Lists. As always, thank you for listening. If you like the episode, leave us a review!  Want to join the conversation? Share your comments at borrellassociates.com/podcast.

Jordan Brannon, co-founder and president of Coalition Technologies, joins Pathmonk Presents to share how SMBs can win discovery and conversions across e-commerce and service categories. He breaks down why SEO remains the most durable top-of-funnel channel, how paid search and Meta ads complement it, and the conversion must-haves: above-the-fold CTAs, credible reviews, and fast answers to common questions. Jordan also outlines ongoing improvement through A/B or multivariate testing, smarter personalization, and retargeting to capture second-visit buyers. He opens the curtain on his leadership cadence and learning stack—from Substack to Reddit communities—giving marketers practical playbooks to apply this week. Stay to the end for rapid-fire career advice and a candid wish list for AI that actually saves time.   

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, part of the AI for SMBs series. Today, we explore how AI and data are transforming small and medium-sized businesses in Canada, helping them unlock real ROI, improve productivity, and drive innovation.Joining us are Wendy Gnenz, Partner and Digital Municipal Community of Practice Leader, and Colin Wenngatz, Partner, Data & AI, both at MNP. They share insights on treating data as a strategic asset, the critical importance of data quality, practical applications of generative AI, and how businesses and municipalities can use data-driven strategies to thrive.Key Highlights:Data as a Strategic Asset: Practical ways Canadian SMEs can leverage data to grow and deliver more value to customers. Accurate Data for AI: Why data quality is foundational for successful AI and the risks of poor data management. Generative AI Use Cases: Immediate applications of AI for efficiency, innovation, and customer engagement. Municipal Digital Transformation: Real-world examples, like Edmonton's rainfall sensors, showing data-driven decision-making. Architecting for Clarity & Growth: MNP's approach to using data and AI to build resilience, clarity, and business growth.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Sometimes, early success can fool you into thinking you've built the perfect business. That's what happened to Danny Kirk, who launched a software-as-a-service company right after finishing a music degree. He and his co-founder found a great niche, landed a $4,500 sale on a $300 MVP, and took off fast. The catch? Neither of them could actually build the product beyond that first version. They were great at selling and marketing but never filled their technical gap — and that's what cost them. Five years later, they sold the business, while a competitor in the same space sold to Oracle for $200 million. Same idea, different outcome. Here's what Danny learned: Find your missing piece early. Whether it's a technical co-founder, a contractor, or even AI tools to bridge the gap, make sure every critical skill is covered before you scale. Build a team that makes you uncomfortable. The best collaborators are the ones who spot problems you don't want to see and tell you the truth, even when it stings. Reward people who speak up. Create systems or incentives that encourage team members to flag issues — big or small — before they turn into disasters. As Danny put it, success isn't about doing everything yourself. It's about knowing what you can't do,  and finding the right people (or tools) to fill that gap. About Danny Kirk Danny Kirk is a classically trained trumpet player, turned entrepreneur and small business owner. He's started and grown multiple companies over the past decade, and now does growth marketing at ReddiReach for startups and SMBs, 500+ and counting.  Learn more: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielpkirk/  https://reddireach.com/   Let's make this a conversation.   Leave a comment or voice message with a question, marketing tip or idea for an upcoming show. 

In this episode, Frank Sohn talks with Hiren Shah, founder of B2B-Matrix, about how small and mid-sized manufacturers and distributors are modernizing their sales processes through AI-driven CPQ, CRM, and ERP integration. Hiren, a former SAP America consultant turned Salesforce expert, shares his perspective on the future of Configure-Price-Quote (CPQ), Revenue Cloud, and AI in sales automation. He explains B2B-Matrix's three-phase Salesforce AI project, where automation is already reducing clicks, quote times, and approval delays—and how the final phase will connect directly to ERP and internet data. You'll also hear his insights on: When and why companies should migrate from Salesforce CPQ to Revenue Cloud Advanced (RCA) The "death of middleware" and how modern APIs enable seamless CRM-CPQ-ERP integration The top three customer priorities today: AI, master data cleanup, and faster transaction velocity Why CPQ customers typically replace systems every eight years How B2B-Matrix white-labels its services for larger consulting firms and delivers sub-$100K CPQ projects for SMBs Beyond business, Hiren also shares his personal passion for Pilates and Hot Yoga, a balance that keeps him focused as he leads digital transformation projects for manufacturers across North America. Whether you're interested in Salesforce Revenue Cloud, CPQ modernization, AI in sales, or integration strategy, this episode offers practical, real-world insights from someone who's bridging enterprise architecture, business process design, and cloud innovation.

This episode is for entrepreneurs, small businesses, solopreneurs, creators, and consultants who feel overwhelmed by AI and don't know where to start. You'll learn how a completely non-technical founder used Generative AI to transform two businesses, pivot her career, and build AI-driven systems without writing a single line of code. In this episode of Open Tech Talks, host Kashif Manzoor speaks with UK-based entrepreneur Marnie Wills, whose journey with Generative AI began unexpectedly while franchising her children's PE business. A copywriting challenge introduced her to Jasper AI, and that single moment reshaped everything. Within two years, she used AI tools to fix messaging issues, transform her franchise model, exit her online fitness business, and finally launch her consulting practice. Marnie breaks down how she built her AI-first operating system using ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, Abacus AI, and NotebookLM. She explains why customizing your AI, training it on domain knowledge, and owning your data matters for the coming wave of agentic AI. She shares a powerful real example: building a full CRM + GPT workflow for a keynote speaker in 90 minutes using no-code tools. The system identifies events, drafts applications, and enables a VA to manage the entire pipeline, an example of how AI amplifies human roles rather than replacing them. The conversation also explores ethics, the myth of privacy, overwhelm in SMEs, and the misconception that AI = automation. Her philosophy is simple: AI should amplify humans first. Automation comes last. By the end, you'll understand why courses are no longer the main path, how "10,000 hours" has become "10,000 prompts," and why your next breakthrough may come simply from talking to an AI daily. Episode # 174 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marni Wills and Her Journey 02:49 The Impact of Generative AI on Business 06:03 Practical AI Implementation Strategies 08:51 Creating Custom AI Models and Data Ownership 11:56 Vibe Coding: No-Code Solutions for Entrepreneurs 14:38 Learning and Adapting in the AI Landscape 17:30 Ethics and Intellectual Property in AI 20:36 Common Challenges for Small Businesses 23:34 Future Skills in an AI-Driven World Today's Guest: Marnie Wills, Founder, Business with AI Strategist, AI Consultant & Trainer She is a multi-passionate entrepreneur and international athlete, dedicated to revolutionizing the integration of AI into everyday life and business. LinkedIn: MarnieWills What Listeners Will Learn: How a non-tech founder transformed two businesses using Jasper AI, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and agentic tools Why the AI-first mindset matters more than tools, coding, or technical background How to build your personal AI operating system using 5–6 core tools daily Why custom instructions, private models, and a "second brain" dramatically improve AI output Real examples of vibe coding and building no-code platforms with Lovable, Replit, and GoMocka How to reimagine your workday using AI as your Chief Operating Officer Why most people are "lazy AI users" and exactly how to avoid that trap Why automations should come last and why amplifying humans comes first The biggest challenge SMBs face (overwhelm) and the simplest way to begin The future of AI agents and agent-friendly websites Resources: MarnieWills

AI proof-of-concept projects are facing high failure rates, with a recent Omdia survey indicating that nearly one-third of companies report complete failures in these initiatives. Only 9% of firms successfully transition more than half of their AI projects into operational use, while 46% manage to move over 10% into production. The primary reason for these failures is not the technology itself but rather a lack of clearly defined business problems that AI could address. Additionally, only 32% of companies have identified specific human tasks that AI should supplement or replace, highlighting a significant gap in strategic planning for AI integration.The demand for AI skills testing in the workplace has surged, with a 166% increase reported over the past year, according to Test Guerrilla. This trend reflects a growing recognition among employers that traditional hiring methods, such as resumes and interviews, are inadequate for assessing actual candidate capabilities. The 2025 State of Skills-Based Hiring Report reveals that 71% of employers believe skills testing is a more accurate predictor of job performance than resumes. However, a concerning statistic shows that 93% of candidates are not questioned about their AI skills during interviews, indicating a disconnect between hiring practices and the skills needed in the evolving tech landscape.In related developments, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) as a beneficial communication solution for small and mid-sized businesses, despite the technology being well-established for over a decade. Corsica Technologies has acquired Accountability IT, enhancing its capabilities in AI-enabled managed IT and cybersecurity, while Morgan Franklin Cyber has acquired Lynx Technology Partners to bolster its governance, risk, and compliance services. These acquisitions reflect a trend of consolidation in the managed services sector, emphasizing the need for IT service providers to adapt to changing market demands.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service leaders, these developments underscore the importance of aligning technology initiatives with clear business outcomes. As organizations increasingly seek to implement AI solutions, MSPs must guide clients in defining specific problems that AI can solve and ensuring that their teams are equipped with the necessary skills. The emphasis on skills testing and the strategic integration of technologies like VoIP and AI highlights the need for operational maturity and expertise in navigating the complexities of modern IT environments. Failure to adapt could result in missed opportunities and increased competition from larger, more agile providers. Four things to know today00:00 New Reports Show AI Failing in Deployment and Hiring Due to Strategy Gaps, Not Technology Limitations05:10 U.S. Chamber Endorses VoIP for SMBs as Corsica and MorganFranklin Expand Through Cybersecurity Acquisitions09:03 Vendors Target MSP Operational Pressure With Faster File Workflows, White-Label Staffing, and AI-Powered Search12:37 AI Isn't Failing—Organizations Are: New Research Calls Out Siloes, Leadership Gaps, and Poor Workflow Design This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://scalepad.com/dave/https://timezest.com/mspradio/

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how a strategy-first approach to digital marketing helps businesses navigate the evolving search landscape and achieve measurable growth.Joining us is Anar Kazimov, Founder and Owner of Pixel Prodigies, a results-driven marketing agency dedicated to boosting corporate revenue through data-backed strategies. Anar shares how AI is reshaping SEO, the importance of brand authority, and the lessons he's learned in sustaining a startup through uncertainty.Key Highlights:AI Overviews & SEO: How AI is transforming search and how SMBs can adapt content strategies effectively. Building Brand Authority: The value of guest posts and press mentions in strengthening SEO and credibility. Google Ads Mistakes: Common pitfalls small businesses face and how to audit campaigns for better ROI. Founder's Journey: How Anar overcame cash flow challenges and built resilience as an entrepreneur. Future Vision: The story behind the Backlink Store and Pixel Prodigies' commitment to data-driven growth.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Today on the Salesforce Admins Podcast, we talk to Daniel Peter, Chief Technology Officer at Petaluma Creamery. Join us as we chat about how he manages cheese wheels with custom objects and how Salesforce and AI can level the playing field for SMBs. You should subscribe for the full episode, but here are a few […] The post Why Agentforce Is a Game Changer for Small Businesses appeared first on Salesforce Admins.

Welcome back to another episode of HR Insights: The Podcast. Today, our CEO and Host, Stuart Elliott, is joined by Tony Davies, Director of Global Partners at Acumen International, to explore the rapidly growing world of global employment and the role of Employer of Record (EOR) in enabling organisations to scale across borders with confidence.Together, they discuss the evolution of Tony's career, from military engineering to building high-performing recruitment businesses, to leading global partnership networks and advising organisations on compliant international workforce expansion. Tony breaks down what the EOR model really is, why demand is rising across regions such as the Middle East, Latin America, and India, and the common pitfalls organisations must avoid when hiring internationally.We hope you gain practical insights into when and how to use an EOR solution, how to mitigate risk in global hiring, and why choosing the right partner can determine both compliance and commercial success.About Tony Davies:Tony Davies is the Director of Global Partners at Acumen International, where he leads the development and execution of global partnership strategies to expand market presence and support business growth. With more than 25 years of experience in international recruitment and workforce solutions, Tony specialises in building strategic alliances, scaling operations across borders, and enabling organisations to globalise efficiently through Acumen's extensive Global EOR network.Passionate about empowering organisations to unlock new market opportunities, Tony focuses on strategic collaboration, operational scalability, and sustainable growth in competitive, fast-changing environments.Key Timestamps:00:16 – About Tony's Career path: military → engineering → recruitment01:03 – Building and selling a recruitment firm06:20 – Belcan UK turnaround to $60m and 35-country footprint09:04 – With James Caan: building global partner networks10:43 – Joining Acumen International: partnership vs referral models12:08 – What is EOR/PEO and why companies use it18:45 – Demand hotspots: Middle East, Northern LatAm, India21:50 – Pitfalls: “cheapest” ≠ safest; misclassification; penalties on global turnover26:56 – Before using EOR: three checks to run30:30 – When EOR is the right tool (SMBs, market tests, entity rationalisation)41:53 – Advice for HR & leaders: build a trusted EOR partnershipYou can listen to and download HR Insights from Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify and other popular podcast apps. Please subscribe so the latest episodes are directly available! You can also join our HR Community by following us on LinkedIn.Thank you for listening and please do review and rate us wherever you listen!

What if AI could give craftsmen their time back? In this episode of Startuprad.io, host Jörn Menninger sits down with Julian Wiedenhaus, CEO and Co-Founder of PlanCraft, to explore how AI agents and voice interfaces are reshaping Europe's construction sector. From a family carpentry shop to a €38 M Series B, PlanCraft built an AI-first SaaS that helps over 20 000 craft businesses quote, invoice and coordinate projects without paper chaos. Our sponsor:

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. In this episode from our exclusive series AI for SMBs, we explore how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping business strategy, productivity, and innovation for small and medium-sized enterprises across Canada.Joining us is Jordan Steiner, Chief Strategy Officer at Monadical and Founder & CEO of Developer Capital. With 12 years of experience as a portfolio manager before pivoting fully into AI, Jordan combines financial acumen with deep AI expertise to help startups and SMEs build scalable, defensible, and future-ready businesses.Key Highlights:The AI Leap: How Jordan's transition from finance to AI reflects the growing need for early adoption. Privacy & Security: Why AI data protection is crucial and how businesses can safeguard sensitive information. Funding Strategies: What makes an AI startup truly VC-fundable versus suited for non-dilutive funding. Building a Moat: How SMEs can stay resilient and competitive in an AI-driven economy. Custom AI Solutions: How Monadical's Palantir-inspired model empowers Canadian SMEs through tailored AI workflows.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Nick Williams, global product director at Intuit opens the podcast by announcing the global availability of AI agents on the Intuit platform. He explains how it works, why they're launching now, and risks and reactions. The team discusses new Intuit QuickBooks research showing small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) can achieve up to 58% more revenue growth by closing the gap between ambition and execution. Williams explores the role of AI, automation, the importance of readiness and unlocking potential. Tom Herbert talks about the return of tech founders, covering six founders who built and sold successful accounting tech products and are now back with new software. Herbert details their return and the growing tech gap for small businesses. With the Budget weeks away, Richard Hattersley chats about rumours, likely changes, Rachel Reeves's briefing and the team share their thoughts on which tax updates might actually happen. Matthew Ord wraps up discussing ICAEW AML compliance. A new report shows that rates have remained consistent but non-compliance is rising. He reviews the findings and whether the FCA will be ready to act on them.

We talk about complexity all the time — but few founders have weaponized it like these four did.In markets where infrastructure is fragmented, regulation changes by the month, and operational chaos is the norm, most founders either give up or try to export Silicon Valley playbooks that don't translate.Daniel Vogel, Caique Carvalho, Tiago Dalvi, and Piero Contezini did something different.They didn't build despite the complexity. They built because of it.Daniel turned Mexico's regulatory maze into Bitso's $2.2 billion moat — Latin America's first crypto unicorn. Caique orchestrated Brazil's fragmented DMV infrastructure into Gringo's $200 million exit to Corpay. Tiago called every investor to return their money, then pivoted Olist into a $10 billion GMV platform. And Piero turned Brazil's Byzantine tax system into Asaas's 37 revenue streams and a path to a U.S. listing.This isn't a recap episode. It's a strategic debrief.Every few months, I step back to look at the patterns — the decisions, frameworks, and inflection points that separate companies that scale from those that stall. This quarter, one theme cut through everything: in emerging markets, the very friction that makes these markets "too hard" is what makes them defensible once you figure them out.What I cover:The infrastructure decision — When to build from scratch vs. orchestrate what exists, and why control beats features in volatile markets.The contrarian bet that won Mexico — How Bitso ignored the entire crypto industry's narrative about replacing fiat and built the bridge instead.The tattoo marketplace that failed — What Caique learned about the difference between problems people tolerate and problems they'll pay to eliminate.The pivot that required courage — Why Tiago offered to return investor money, and what that decision revealed about founder clarity.Distribution as product design — Why Gringo built for WhatsApp first, and the three questions every founder should ask before building any feature.The four-layer playbook — How Asaas went from "help SMBs get paid" to 37 revenue streams by solving sequential, interconnected problems.The M&A playbook that just works — Olist's four-step integration strategy that turned acquisitions into product strategy, not just consolidation.Why 2,600 hours on taxes = $185M raised — The value of inefficiency, and why vertical SaaS works differently in Latin America than anywhere else.This is a masterclass in seeing opportunity where others see impossibility.Join The J Curve Community:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Weekly deep dives into LATAM's hottest deals, emerging trends, and market intelligence⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Daily market insights and exclusive founder updates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: Behind-the-scenes podcast moments and quick industry takes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Hit subscribe⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs and investors

This episode features Tami Cannizzaro, Chief Marketing Officer at Thryv, a software company helping small business owners run and grow their businesses with AI-powered tools. Tami shares how her team focuses on revenue first and builds marketing strategies around what drives impact for SMBs.She discusses the shift from traditional SEO to AEO and why speed and originality now define effective marketing. Key TakeawaysAEO and AI are redefining how customers find brands online: Learn how to optimize for AI-driven discovery so your brand appears in conversational search and LLM-generated results.Fresh, original content outperforms repurposed AI blogs: The fastest way to lose visibility is to sound like everyone else. Originality and recency are now ranking factors in AI search.First-mover advantage in AI tools can create outsized revenue impact: Early adopters capture learnings and market share before competitors adapt.Quote“Anytime there's something new in marketing, if you can be a first mover and jump on it before everyone else figures it out, there's a real opportunity to drive revenue from that.”Episode Timestamps(02:28) The Trust Tree: Supporting SMBs(17:12) The Playbook: ABM, AEO, and social ads (37:34) Quick Hits: Tami's Quick HitsSponsorPipeline Visionaries is brought to you by Qualified.com — the pipeline generation platform for revenue teams.Turn your website into a pipeline machine with PipelineAI. Engage and convert your most valuable visitors with live chat, chatbots, meeting scheduling, and intent data.Visit Qualified.com to learn more.LinksConnect with Ian on LinkedInConnect with Tami on LinkedInLearn more about ThryvLearn more about Caspian Studios Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The fastest way to win more ISO and agent deals isn't adding more vendors; it's sharpening the story. We sit down with John Barrett and Andie Hill from Payroc to unpack how a focused core product strategy transformed recruiting conversations, accelerated close rates, and unlocked real wins in the SMB space. This is the third and final episode in our three-part series titled: Focus. Build. Win.John breaks down the four-part recruiting pitch that sets expectations and gets to fit fast: who Payroc is as a full-service acquirer, what the core solutions do, how infrastructure and culture support partners as customer number one, and where international expansion opens future lanes. Andie takes us into the field results: near sellouts of their terminal twice in a year, a step-change in win rates, and tangible gains when SMBs finally get pay by text, lightweight invoicing, and a polished countertop experience without enterprise POS cost or complexity. Service verticals like auto repair and landscaping benefit from simple scheduling, mobile-friendly payments, and fewer keyed transactions -practical improvements that agents can demo and merchants adopt quickly.We also walk through a vertical ISO case study that shifted to sending 95 percent of its business to Payroc after repeatable onboarding, underwriting alignment, and responsive support outperformed legacy processors. Throughout the conversation, feedback loops drive the roadmap: trade show questions, CRM win-loss data, and partner demos surfaced the need for features like scheduling, which moved from request to release. The core message is clear; focus doesn't mean fixed. The stack evolves, but the promise stays consistent: fewer products, better execution, stronger support, and a go-to-market that respects the time of the people closest to the merchant.

Welcome back to our Engineering the SMB Capital Stack, sponsored by our friends at Fundbox. In this four-part series, we're exploring small businesses, small business lending, and the forces shaping how small businesses access capital. I'm joined by Prashant Fuloria, CEO of Fundbox, as cohost. In Episode 1, we explored why small business lending is so distinctly challenging. Now, in Episode 2, we turn to distribution: how capital actually reaches small businesses. To tackle that question, we invited Tanay Jaeel, Head of Product at Stripe Capital, who's spent nearly five years building and scaling Stripe's embedded lending products. Highlights include: How Stripe identified capital access as both a customer pain point and a platform growth opportunity The shift from serving merchants directly to powering embedded financing for vertical SaaS platforms Lessons from expanding lending internationally and balancing build-vs-partner decisions How AI is transforming contextual lending (helping SMBs understand why and when to borrow) Tanay also explains how embedded lending works best when it's invisible, surfacing capital in the exact moment a business owner realizes they need it. From coffee shops buying new equipment to SaaS founders bridging subscription cycles, context is everything. If you want to understand how distribution is becoming the real differentiator in small business lending, this conversation is essential listening. Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes and insights! This episode was brought to you by Fundbox.  As a leading capital infrastructure provider behind the digital SMB economy, Fundbox is focused on enabling platforms to embed financial tools directly into their user experiences. Learn more here.  Sign up for Alex's Fintech Takes newsletter for the latest insightful analysis on fintech trends, along with a heaping pile of pop culture references and copious footnotes. Every Monday and Thursday: https://workweek.com/brand/fintech-takes/ And for more exclusive insider content, don't forget to check out my YouTube page. Follow Alex:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJgfH47QEwbQmkQlz1V9rQA/videos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhjohnson Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AlexH_Johnson Follow Prashant: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fuloria/ Follow Tanay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanayjaeel/ Learn more about Fundbox here.

The U.S. job market is experiencing a gradual slowdown, with the unemployment rate rising to 4.36% in October 2025, according to estimates from the Chicago Federal Reserve. Despite an increase in layoff announcements, initial unemployment claims remain low at 229,000, indicating some stability. Major companies like Amazon, UPS, and Target have announced significant job cuts, but studies suggest these layoffs are not primarily driven by artificial intelligence (AI) advancements. Instead, financial pressures and a lack of productivity gains from AI are cited as the main factors, with 96% of businesses reporting no significant efficiency improvements from AI implementations.Trust in generative AI is growing, with 48% of respondents expressing complete trust in these systems, compared to only 18% for traditional AI. However, only 40% of organizations are investing in governance and ethical safeguards, raising concerns about complacency rather than genuine trust. Gartner predicts that by 2026, half of companies will require AI-free critical thinking skills assessments, reflecting a growing dependency on AI. Additionally, a trend of rehiring laid-off employees suggests that the anticipated efficiency gains from AI may not be materializing as expected.The episode also highlights the transition of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) to AI-powered personal computers, driven more by the end of Windows 10 support than by a desire for AI features. Over 60% of SMBs prioritize performance, reliability, and security in their purchasing decisions. Managed service providers (MSPs) are positioned as essential partners in guiding these businesses through the upgrade process, especially as hiring slows and automation becomes more critical.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the key takeaway is to focus on delivering tangible value rather than succumbing to AI hype. As companies seek reliable solutions amidst economic uncertainties, MSPs can capitalize on the opportunity to provide guidance on effective technology implementations, compliance, and governance. The evolving landscape underscores the importance of building trust through measurable results and strategic partnerships, particularly as hyperscalers like Google and AWS enhance their AI infrastructure capabilities.  Four things to know today00:00 Everyone's Blaming AI for Layoffs — But the Real Problem Is Old-Fashioned Economics04:35 Generative AI Gains Global Trust, But Weak Governance and Deferred Spending Signal Market Correction Ahead09:29 SMBs Upgrade for Security, Not AI — MSPs Poised to Benefit as Hiring Stalls and Demand for Guidance Rises12:41 Google Unveils Ironwood AI Chip as AWS Expands MSP Program — Hyperscalers Double Down on AI Infrastructure and Partner Enablement This is the Business of Tech.    Supported by:  https://scalepad.com/dave/https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship

Small businesses are owed over one trillion dollars in unpaid invoices. Host Tedd Huff the CEO of Voalyre a Fintech advisory firm and Founder of Fintech Confidential sits down with Prashant Fuloria, CEO of Fundbox, to discuss how embedded finance transforms working capital access for business owners managing teams of one or two while juggling payroll, invoicing, and growth decisions. Prashant left senior roles at Google, Facebook, and Yahoo to help solve this massive cash flow crisis affecting hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs. This conversation covers how Fundbox embeds financing directly into platforms like QuickBooks and Stripe, eliminating lengthy applications and delivering instant capital when business owners need it most. Prashant explains why leadership culture drives sustainable growth, how daily team huddles prevent executive isolation, and why transparent partnerships built on trust outperform traditional direct marketing. The episode reveals practical strategies for scaling fintech platforms while serving underserved small businesses with flexible, responsible lending.1️⃣ Use continuous platform integrations that monitor business health in real time and automatically adjust credit offers as revenue grows.2️⃣ Remove lengthy forms by using existing platform data from accounting software or payment processors to complete underwriting instantly.3️⃣ Access immediate capital when trucks break down or equipment fails without waiting for traditional loan approval timelines.4️⃣ Structure financing to align with actual cash flow patterns rather than rigid monthly schedules that ignore seasonal business cycles.5️⃣ Embed financing into industry-specific software platforms to create a one-stop experience where owners never juggle multiple logins.Get more at Fintech Confidential.com GuestPrashant FuloriaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashant-fuloria/CompanyFundboxWebsite: https://fundbox.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fundbox/X: https://x.com/FundboxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FundboxcomFintech ConfidentialYoutube: https://youtube.com/@fintechconfidentialPodcast: https://fintechconfidential.com/listenNewsletter: https://fintechconfidential.com/accessLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fintechconfidentialX: https://x.com/FTconfidentialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fintechconfidentialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/fintechconfidentialSupportersUnder: Streamlines application and underwriting with digital form processing. https://under.io/ftcSkyflow: Zero-trust data privacy vaults as an API to secure and tokenize personal information. https://skyflowsecure.comDfns: Wallets as a service secured with MPC; powers crypto payments across 50+ networks. https://fintechconfidential.com/dfnsHawk AI: Real-time screening and ML monitoring to strengthen fraud and financial-crime prevention. https://gethawkai.comAboutPrashant Fuloria is CEO of Fundbox, a product and technology leader with 25+ years of experience building platforms at Google, Facebook, and Yahoo. At Fundbox he has supported more than 500,000 SMBs and unlocked over $5 billion in working capital.Fundbox is an embedded working capital platform built for SMBs using accounting, payments, and vertical SaaS tools. By integrating with QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and other platforms, Fundbox provides fast, flexible credit using AI-powered underwriting and real-time data.Tedd Huff is Founder of Voalyre, a fintech advisory firm, and host of Fintech Confidential. Over 25+ years, he has contributed to

Brantley Pearce, Chief Technology Officer at RJ Young, discussed the integration of IT services, workflow automation, and workplace technology within the managed services sector. RJ Young, a 70-year-old organization with approximately 700 employees, has been providing managed services since 2012 and has seen significant growth, now generating $12 billion in revenue. The company emphasizes a collaborative approach, utilizing account managers as liaisons who work alongside specialists to deliver tailored solutions that meet client needs while maintaining operational efficiency.The conversation highlighted the growing importance of compliance, particularly in relation to the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) for Department of Defense contractors. RJ Young is actively engaging in this area, recognizing the demand for compliance services among small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) that often lack adequate security measures. Additionally, the firm is focusing on enhancing clients' security postures through network segmentation and the implementation of Security Operations Center (SOC) and Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services.Pearce also addressed the challenges of workflow automation, noting that many organizations struggle to implement these solutions due to their day-to-day operational demands. While there is interest in AI and automation, the most effective solutions are those that are already integrated into existing platforms. The need for human involvement in understanding and optimizing business processes remains critical, as many clients are too occupied with immediate tasks to focus on long-term improvements.For Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and IT service leaders, the discussion underscores the necessity of evolving service offerings to include compliance and security solutions while maintaining a human-centric approach. As automation technologies advance, the ability to provide strategic guidance and personalized service will differentiate successful MSPs in a competitive landscape. Engaging clients in meaningful conversations about their business goals and challenges will be essential for fostering long-term partnerships and driving growth.

How Outsourced Accounting Empowers SMBs: Insights from Rhett Molitor, CEO of Basis 365 AccountingIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Rhett Molitor, CEO and co-founder of Basis 365 Accounting, to explore how outsourced accounting is transforming small and mid-sized businesses. Rhett shares how fractional accounting services help companies move beyond simple bookkeeping to strategic financial management. He also discusses how AI and automation are reshaping the accounting landscape and why proactive financial oversight is the key to scaling with confidence.The Shift to Strategic, Outsourced AccountingRhett Molitor founded Basis 365 Accounting in 2012 to fill a crucial gap for businesses earning between $1M–$20M in revenue—companies that have outgrown basic bookkeeping but don't yet need a full-time accounting team. Instead of focusing on compliance alone, Basis 365 partners with CEOs to turn accounting into a growth lever.Molitor breaks accounting into four key levels: bookkeeper, accountant, controller, and CFO—each representing a stage of financial maturity. A proactive approach means using data for decision-making, forecasting cash flow, and improving profitability over time. He also cautions that while AI and automation have made accounting faster, expert human oversight remains essential for accuracy and strategy.For SMB leaders, Rhett's message is clear: don't treat accounting as an afterthought. It's not just about managing expenses—it's about creating visibility, confidence, and insight to drive growth. Partnering with the right fractional accounting team gives businesses access to senior-level expertise without the overhead of full-time hires.About the Rhett MolitorRhett Molitor is the co-founder and CEO of Basis 365 Accounting, a U.S.-based outsourced accounting firm specializing in digital agencies, SaaS companies, and consultancies. With over a decade of experience helping SMBs scale efficiently, Rhett champions proactive, transparent financial management supported by technology and expert insight.About the Basis 365 AccountingBasis 365 Accounting provides outsourced bookkeeping, accounting, and fractional CFO services designed for growth-focused businesses. By combining automation tools with expert financial guidance, Basis 365 helps companies gain clarity, reduce risk, and improve profitability. Learn more at basis365.com.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeBasic 365 Accounting WebRhett Molitor LinkedIn ProfileKey Episode HighlightsThe 4 levels of accounting: bookkeeper, accountant, controller, CFOWhy proactive financial management drives scalabilityHow AI and automation are reshaping accounting workflowsCommon pitfalls SMBs face when they “outgrow” basic bookkeepingActionable steps to make accounting a strategic business advantageConclusionOutsourced accounting isn't just about saving money—it's about gaining visibility, expertise, and strategic advantage. Rhett Molitor's approach at Basis 365 Accounting shows that when SMBs invest in proactive financial systems and fractional expertise, they set the stage for smarter growth and long-term stability.

AI adoption is accelerating among small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), with 87% of executives believing it will transform their operations within a year. However, only 29% feel their teams are prepared to implement AI effectively. This gap highlights a significant challenge for organizations that have invested in AI without seeing tangible returns. Anurag Agarwal, founder of TechAisle, emphasizes that while there are pockets of ROI in sectors like retail and healthcare, many SMBs struggle with data readiness and understanding their business processes, which hinders effective AI integration.The conversation also delves into the evolving relationship between vendors and partners, particularly regarding market development funds (MDF). Traditional MDF models are becoming obsolete as partners demand outcome-based funding, training, and co-development opportunities. Research indicates that 83% of MSPs prioritize investments that enhance capabilities and drive customer success. This shift reflects a broader trend where partners seek to align their funding requests with measurable business outcomes rather than activity-based metrics.Additionally, the episode addresses the concept of "platform inshittification," where dominant vendors may degrade user experiences to extract more value from partners and customers. This raises concerns for MSPs reliant on these platforms, as they may face risks such as reduced margins or direct competition from vendors. Agarwal advises MSPs to define their value beyond mere access to tools, positioning themselves as business efficiency consultants who can integrate various solutions to meet customer needs.For MSPs and IT service leaders, the implications are clear: they must enhance their own capabilities in data management and business process understanding to effectively leverage AI. Furthermore, as vendors shift towards outcome-based funding models, MSPs should prepare to present clear business plans that demonstrate how investments will lead to measurable results. This proactive approach will be essential for maintaining competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.

Banks dramatically underestimate how their customers share financial data, and most of it happens through insecure screen scraping that creates fraud vulnerabilities and slows performance. Shane McWilliams, Head of Retail Digital Banking at FIS, breaks down the three critical challenges separating thriving institutions from those being left behind: serving small and medium businesses as a central financial hub, enabling secure data sharing through APIs, and moving beyond product-centric thinking to build sticky customer relationships. McWilliams reveals that when he asks bank executives to guess what percentage of their customers are sharing data with third parties, "they're not even close" to reality. He explains how modern SMBs expect their banks to integrate everything from cash flow monitoring to accounting systems, why personalization needs to go beyond UX optimization, and how banks that orient around customer needs rather than products will win in today's competitive environment.

Self-storage in Montreal is changing fast. Robert Vineberg, president of Pandora Self-Storage, breaks down the model behind their Class-A facilities—drive-thru access you can literally pull a cube truck into, humidity-controlled environments that protect high-value goods, and security that actually feels safe. We unpack how Pandora picks markets (population, storage per capita, rate comps), what zoning and stabilization really take, and why small facilities often fail on fixed costs. Plus: co-working near your unit, commercial-friendly lockers, and a national growth roadmap from Quebec to Ontario and beyond.   Highlights: Drive-thru storage & commercial-ready unit mix (3/6/900 sq ft flexibility) Market math: ≥100K people in 3 km, comp rates, and saturation guardrails Build & lease-up truth: 11–14 months construction, ~40-month underwriting for stabilization Green design & financing: zero-carbon targets, climate + humidity control, security as product Operator realities: marketing spend, unit-mix discipline, and why "all small units" kills NOI Expansion strategy: why you need at least two sites per new city for ops redundancy Perfect for: CRE investors, developers, operators, and SMBs who need flexible, near-home space. Follow & Share: New episodes weekly. Follow the show and share with a colleague who's eyeing storage or light-industrial strategies in Greater Montreal. Visit https://www.e5pace.com for more resources, market guides, data, and advertising opportunities.

WHERE IS THE MONEY? The million dollar question that Kat and Ian cannot answer. Please leave a comment after minute 6 if you can answer this question for us. From here, your favorite duo hits the highlights on SMB pain points with marketing. From cost to time consumption, Kat and Ian debunk allll the myths for SMBs. AND if you're more interested in exactly what Cisco is selling, check it out here: https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/solutions/small-business/index.html#tabs-a107e9a621-item-6caff3e5bb-tab

At the Wildix Partner Day in Venice, Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green spoke with Jon Arnold, Principal of J Arnold & Associates, for a candid analyst perspective on Wildix's strategy and its growing impact on the SMB and channel markets. Arnold noted that while Wildix may be lesser known in North America, its channel-first model, AI-driven innovation, and SMB focus set it apart from larger UCaaS players. “Wildix isn't trying to be everything to everyone — they're laser-focused on SMBs that want modern, ROI-driven communications, not just dial tone,” said Arnold. “They understand how to meet these businesses where they are, whether they're still on legacy PBX systems or rebuilding after the pandemic's patchwork solutions.” He emphasized that Wildix's message is no longer about PBX replacement, but about transforming communications into a strategic asset. “Voice is no longer just about making phone calls — it's data. Once AI enters the picture, conversations become business intelligence, and that's where Wildix is delivering real value,” Arnold explained. Arnold also praised the company's verticalized offerings, including AI-powered retail and healthcare solutions that demonstrate tangible returns for customers and simplify the sales process for MSPs. “They're giving the channel out-of-the-box vertical solutions with integrations already done — that's gold for partners, because it accelerates time to market and reduces disruption,” he said. From workflow automation and open APIs to remote-friendly deployment, Arnold concluded that Wildix exemplifies a vendor that both lives and delivers on the distributed-work model. “They've stayed true to their SMB roots while bringing the power of AI to that market — and that's a story worth paying attention to,” he added. Learn more about Jon Arnold's research and market insights at jarnoldassociates.com.

In this episode, I speak with Akhil Nigam, CoFounder at Finmo, and we answer the critical question: How can global businesses transform their fragmented treasury operations into unified, intelligent systems that drive growth?He shares insights on why SMEs deserve better treasury solutions, how real-time payment rails are transforming cash management, and why MO AI is becoming the intelligent co-pilot every finance team needs.

What do you want from your author career? What would fulfill you? Today's top story is Miserable Marketing. Question of the week is What do you want from your author career? What would fulfill you? Join the Sell More Books Show Afterparty group on Facebook and answer the Question of the Week in the comment section. Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts.

Mini - Episode - 6 min.   Timidity is one of the worst sins. No one will follow you or believe you in. Make a bold bet now.   SMBs are the biggest target for cyber attacks. Protect your business with Inzo Technologies. Check out....www.inzotechnologies.com, I-N-Z-O, or email Nick directly at nick@inzotechnologies.com.   Get expert M&A guidance, valuations, and fractional executive support from Amplēo.Learn more at www.ampleo.com/lets-buy-a-business-podcast/.   Buying or selling? Business Valuation help? - Lean on Peak Business Valuation and their expertise now.  https://hubs.li/Q03zlvqH0   Join the next How to Buy a Business Cohort - Dec 2025 https://www.letsbuyabusiness.com/   Sourcing List:https://www.letsbuyabusiness.com/source

Send us a textThe enterprise software landscape continues its rapid AI-driven transformation, as vendors double down on automation, intelligence, and ecosystem connectivity. NT Logistics and Qued deepened their partnership to enhance logistics optimization, while Priority Software unveiled aiERP, embedding AI directly into core ERP workflows. Progress Software introduced AI-powered tools to accelerate developer productivity, and Sage rolled out AI Supply Chain Intelligence for SMBs alongside a new Copilot for Sage X3, reinforcing its mid-market dominance. On the content and marketing front, Storyblok launched two key integrations, AdDaptive Intelligence expanded its AI advertising platform, and Contentstack introduced its Data and Insights Solution. Meanwhile, Workday's new AI Agent Partner Network and Gateway underscores a growing focus on interoperable AI ecosystems, complemented by CallMiner's acquisition of VOCALLS, signaling continued consolidation across AI-native enterprise platforms.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry analysts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to analyze current enterprise software stories. We covered many grounds including the direction and roadmaps of each enterprise software vendors. Finally, we analyzed future trends and how they might shape the enterprise software industry.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

At the Wildix Partner Day in Venice, Italy, Technology Reseller News Publisher Doug Green sat down with Jason Uslan of Wildix to discuss how the European-born UCaaS and PBX provider is helping small and midsize businesses modernize communications while preserving the trusted channel relationship. “Wildix is 100% channel — we only go to market through our partners,” Uslan explained. “That local partner knows the customer, understands their workflows, and can tailor the solution to fit their needs.” Wildix's unified platform enables SMBs to consolidate fragmented communications — legacy PBX, Microsoft Teams, CRM tools, and email — into a single, flexible system focused on both customer and employee experience. Designed for scalability, the Wildix solution gives partners full control over deployment, billing, and customer ownership while offering end users a seamless, device-agnostic experience across office and remote environments. Uslan emphasized that Wildix fits the SMB market “because it's built for it.” The platform is fully customizable down to the user level, integrates natively with Microsoft Teams and leading CRMs, and supports open APIs for third-party extensions through partners like Red Cactus. “We don't want to disrupt how people work — we want to help them work smarter, faster, and better,” he said. Looking ahead, AI will play a central role in Wildix's evolution. Uslan noted that the company approaches AI “with an ROI mindset — helping SMBs do more without replacing people, by making their teams more efficient.” From improving coaching and analytics through its x-bees employee experience (EX) tools to driving better customer experience (CX), Wildix is positioning partners and customers alike for the next decade of intelligent, integrated communications. To learn more about Wildix solutions and partner opportunities, visit wildix.com.

Send us a textThe CRM requirements of nonprofits are uniquely mission-driven, extending well beyond conventional sales and customer engagement functions. Unlike commercial enterprises, these organizations must manage complex relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders—including donors, volunteers, members, partners, and beneficiaries—each with distinct interaction and reporting needs. Core capabilities such as donation lifecycle management, pledge tracking, campaign segmentation, and impact measurement are essential to sustaining transparency and trust. Nonprofits also rely heavily on integrations with fund accounting systems and marketing automation tools to maximize limited resources while maintaining accountability to donors and regulators. Given their dependence on public and grant funding, robust data governance and auditability are non-negotiable. A CRM that aligns with the nonprofit operational and compliance model is not just a tool for engagement—it's the backbone for mission execution, resource optimization, and long-term sustainability.In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 Non-Profit CRMs in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these Non-Profit CRMs. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each CRM system.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

In this episode of Local Marketing Trends, Gordon & Corey dive into Amazon's move into the audio landscape. As Amazon forges partnerships with Spotify, SiriusXM, and traditional AM/FM radio groups, the e-commerce giant is redefining how SMBs can buy geotargeted audio commercials. Gordon sits down with Amazon DSP director Meredith Goldman to explore whether traditional radio should see Amazon as a competitor or a collaborator. The conversation reveals how technology, targeting, and a renewed focus on SMBs are reshaping the ad game. Stay in the loop with all things Borrell when you join our Research Alert Lists. As always, thank you for listening. If you like the episode, leave us a review!  Want to join the conversation? Share your comments at borrellassociates.com/podcast.

From Adobe Max 2025 in Los Angeles, Corey and Grant sit down with Ely Greenfield, Adobe's Chief Technology Officer, to explore the philosophy behind Adobe's practical AI strategy. Discover why the crowd went wild over AI renaming layers, how Adobe thinks about "additive not subtractive" AI, and where creative tools are heading next. Ely shares Adobe's vision for making AI a creative partner that enhances rather than replaces human artistry, and explains why the best AI features are often the most boring ones.Topics covered include: the Photoshop AI Assistant, Harmonize for instant compositing, auto-masking in Premiere Pro, the Express conversational workflow, and Adobe's unique approach to balancing automation with creative control.Read our Adobe Max coverage:• Adobe Reinvents Creative Suite with AI• Day 2 Keynote Recap• NVIDIA's Beyond-GPUs StrategyThis episode was made possible by our sponsor, Clutch: https://clutch.co/resources/how-smbs-see-ai-crawlers?source=theneuron&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=newsletter_10-14-2025Related resources:• Adobe Max 2025 announcements: https://www.theneuron.ai/explainer-articles/adobe-goes-all-in-on-ai-max-2025-unleashes-creative-ai-arsenal-across-every-tool• Day 2 Keynote and Sneaks recap: https://www.theneuron.ai/explainer-articles/adobe-max-day-2-the-storyteller-is-still-king-but-ai-is-their-new-superpower• Check out Adobe Firefly: https://firefly.adobe.com/• Project Graph demo: https://www.youtube.com/live/wQza2t9Qs64?t=10409sMake sure to check out Clutch's new report on AI crawling for SMBS! https://clutch.co/resources/how-smbs-see-ai-crawlers?source=theneuron&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=newsletter_10-14-2025Subscribe to The Neuron newsletter for daily AI news: https://theneuron.aiOriginal article: https://www.theneuron.ai/explainer-articles/adobe-goes-all-in-on-ai-max-2025-unleashes-creative-ai-arsenal-across-every-tool

Building on last week's episode on AI and Operating Systems in SMBs, Dave West and PST Yuval Yeret dive into the challenges of scaling small and medium-sized businesses.Dave shares lessons from growing an organization from a small team to over 100 people—navigating silos, new stakeholders, and keeping teams outcome-focused. Yuval highlights common scaling pitfalls and explores frameworks like EOS, Scaling Up, and D4X, emphasizing vision, strategic goals, and evidence-based management.Learn how to maintain agility at scale, build cross-functional teams, and create an operating system that drives sustainable growth.Resource - Mastering Organizational Traction Trail Map

Episode 471 features Alyona Mysko, Founder & CEO of Fuel Finance.Chapters:00:00 — Introduction01:23 — How Alyona Met Alina Vandenberghe (Eastern Europe Bond)03:59 — From Math Geek to Finance: Teachers, Simpsons, Degrees07:02 — Big Four to Fractional CFO ➜ Founding Fuel Finance08:44 — Opportunity Cost & Learning to Say No12:28 — Biggest Risks—Startup, Product, Move to the U.S.16:48 — What Founders Miss at the Start: Talk Money on Day One23:42 — Profit 101: Your First Financial Plan & Realistic Forecasting40:06 — Product-Market Fit Signals & Narrowing Your ICP44:25 — Action Challenge: Set Your “Life Number” + Monthly P&L HourFind Alyona Online:Website: ⁠https://fuelfinance.me/⁠Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyona-mysko/⁠X: ⁠https://x.com/alonamysko⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alyona_mysko/⁠About Alyona:Alyona Mysko is the CEO and Co-Founder of Fuelfinance, an AI-powered financial planning and analysis platform built for SMBs. Before starting Fuel, she spent 10+ years as a CFO helping founders handle messy spreadsheets and build forecasts. Now she's scaling that superpower with AI, giving founders real-time visibility into their numbers and faster decisions without hiring a full finance team.

Send us a textThe enterprise technology landscape continues to accelerate toward AI-driven transformation and vertical specialization, with a surge of strategic partnerships, product launches, and acquisitions reshaping the ecosystem. TELUS Digital's acquisition of Gerent strengthens its Salesforce consulting depth, while AppDirect's purchase of Broker Online Exchange marks an ambitious expansion into energy procurement—blurring the lines between technology marketplace and industry operations. Appian's Connected Claims 2.0 redefines insurance process automation through AI, and Celonis' partnership with Peech introduces a groundbreaking solution aimed at reducing retail perishables loss using real-time intelligence. Meanwhile, HCLTech and UiPath's collaboration focuses on scaling agentic automation across global enterprises, underscoring how automation is evolving into an enterprise-wide capability. On the innovation front, LuminX's $5.5 million seed funding highlights growing investor confidence in emerging AI players, and Priority Software's launch of aiERP reflects the movement toward embedded intelligence at the ERP layer. Complementing this, Progress Software's AI-powered developer tools and Sage's AI Supply Chain Intelligence for SMBs show that across functions—from supply chain to software development—AI is becoming the defining force driving efficiency, adaptability, and competitive advantage.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry analysts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to analyze current enterprise software stories. We covered many grounds including the direction and roadmaps of each enterprise software vendors. Finally, we analyzed future trends and how they might shape the enterprise software industry.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

Seller Financing All Cash Using a Loan **Most use a combination of all 3.   Join the How to Buy a Business Cohort - Nov 2025 https://www.letsbuyabusiness.com/ SMBs are the biggest target for cyber attacks. Protect your business with Inzo Technologies.   Check out....www.inzotechnologies.com, I-N-Z-O, or email Nick directly at nick@inzotechnologies.com.   Get expert M&A guidance, valuations, and fractional executive support from Amplēo. Learn more at www.ampleo.com/lets-buy-a-business-podcast/.   Buying or selling? Business Valuation help? - Lean on Peak Business Valuation and their expertise now. https://hubs.li/Q03zlvqH0   Sourcing List:https://www.letsbuyabusiness.com/source

Send us a textThe CRM needs of large enterprises are shaped by scale, complexity, and stringent governance demands that go far beyond what smaller organizations require. These businesses operate across multiple geographies, currencies, and regulatory environments, making territory management, multi-level forecasting, and compliance core to their CRM strategy. Unlike smaller firms that prioritize ease of use, large enterprises demand robust systems capable of managing global data consolidation, advanced security, and enterprise-grade scalability. Their CRMs must seamlessly integrate with ERP, CPQ, marketing, and analytics ecosystems while maintaining strict data sovereignty and access control standards. With decision-making dispersed across regions and divisions, AI-driven insights, predictive forecasting, and centralized reporting become essential. Ultimately, for large enterprises, a CRM is not just a sales tool—it's a governance and intelligence engine powering global alignment, operational efficiency, and strategic execution.In this episode, our host Sam Gupta discusses the top 10 Large Company CRMs in 2025. He also discusses several variables that influence the rankings of these Large Company CRMs. Finally, he shares the pros and cons of each CRM system.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform. 

This Week: Farrah Bostic, Saul Colt and Colby Vogt join Bob to discuss WPP's AI initiative for SMBs, whether "slop" is part of the plan, OpenAI's Atlas browser, why consumers still prefer short videos, plus this week's #FairFailFoul.

The podcast episode explores three significant shifts impacting the managed service provider (MSP) and technology landscape. The first topic centers on the ongoing debate regarding artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in empowering non-skilled workers versus enhancing the capabilities of skilled professionals. The discussion highlights the current state of AI adoption in organizations, emphasizing that while skilled workers are leveraging AI to augment their expertise, many smaller MSPs are still in the experimental phase, using AI for basic tasks rather than integrating it into their core operations.The second major theme is the emergence of the security-first MSP model, where cybersecurity is not merely an add-on service but a fundamental aspect of the business. Research indicates that a significant portion of MSPs still view cybersecurity as a secondary function, with only a small percentage considering it a core part of their offerings. This raises concerns about the preparedness of MSPs to meet the growing cybersecurity demands of their clients, especially as regulations and compliance requirements become more stringent.The final discussion point addresses the readiness of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) for AI-powered cyber attacks. The experts note that many SMBs are ill-prepared for the evolving threat landscape, often relying on outdated strategies that may no longer be effective. The conversation underscores the necessity for MSPs to not only enhance their cybersecurity offerings but also to educate their clients about the importance of integrating cybersecurity into their overall business strategy.Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the need for MSPs to adopt a more proactive approach to cybersecurity and AI integration. They argue that as the technology landscape continues to evolve, MSPs must refine their business models and operational processes to remain competitive. The discussion concludes with a call for MSPs to embrace their role as trusted advisors, guiding their clients through the complexities of cybersecurity and AI, and ensuring that they are equipped to navigate the challenges of the modern digital environment.

SMBs don't have access to the same level of sophisticated lending options as consumers.There is one fundamental problem that prevents this class of product from pushing forward: lenders juggle multiple data vendors, wrestle with disconnected point solutions, and these tools lack the ability to paint a full picture of the SMB customer and their needs. The result is an ecosystem where a majority of time is spent on solving operational blockades rather than building solutions that cater to the whole lending lifecycle of a SMB customer. “We need something that covers everything. There can't just be a bunch of point solutions," says Jon Fry, founder and CEO of Lendflow. Lendflow has tackled this challenge by building a unified embedded lending infrastructure that works with over 200 companies to streamline three critical pillars in the lending lifecycle: distribution, decisioning, and workflow automation. The firm is not a lender today, nor are they interested in becoming an embedded lender in the future; instead it has positioned itself as the technology backbone that enables existing lenders to become embedded lenders themselves. Lendflow's approach is paying off for clients like BHG Financial, which uses the firm's entire platform suite and has seen dramatic improvements in operational efficiency and approval rates through the partnership. Listen to this podcast to learn how Lendflow is helping lenders break out of the fragmentation quagmire and access a full agentic AI toolbox that helps re-engage borrowers, as well as improve efficiencies for internal processes.

Send us a textThe enterprise software ecosystem is undergoing another wave of AI-driven transformation, with vendors and service providers racing to redefine customer intelligence and automation capabilities. Gainsight's debut of Atlas, a suite of AI agents, and Similarweb's launch of its own AI agent collection both signal a shift toward modular, intelligent ecosystems that automate customer insights and engagement. Complementing this, Snowplow introduced Snowplow Signals—a real-time customer intelligence infrastructure designed to power next-generation, AI-enhanced products. On the acquisition front, Invoca's purchase of Symbl.ai strengthens its conversational analytics capabilities, while Salesforce's planned acquisition of Informatica underscores its commitment to deepening data integration and intelligence at scale. Meanwhile, TELUS Digital's acquisition of Gerent, a Salesforce-focused consultancy, highlights how implementation partners are becoming increasingly strategic in this evolving, AI-first landscape where intelligence infrastructure is the new competitive battleground.In today's episode, we invited a panel of industry analysts for a live discussion on LinkedIn to analyze current enterprise software stories. We covered many grounds including the direction and roadmaps of each enterprise software vendors. Finally, we analyzed future trends and how they might shape the enterprise software industry.Background Soundtrack: Away From You – Mauro SommFor more information on growth strategies for SMBs using ERP and digital transformation, visit our community at wbs. rocks or elevatiq.com. To ensure that you never miss an episode of the WBS podcast, subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform.