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Small Biz 101 Podcast

Business & Economics Podcasts

All You Need to Know to Start or Grow Your Small Business! Through a combination of interviews and topics presented by your host, Connie Whitesell, you will learn how to: Determine the ideal small business for you and create a comprehensive business plan providing the roadmap for your business success. You will learn how to grow your existing small business through strategic planning, utilizing short-term and long-term marketing strategies tailored specifically to you and your industry, and implement personal and professional success strategies. For more information and to access show notes, please visit SmallBiz101Podcast.com

Location:

United States

Description:

All You Need to Know to Start or Grow Your Small Business! Through a combination of interviews and topics presented by your host, Connie Whitesell, you will learn how to: Determine the ideal small business for you and create a comprehensive business plan providing the roadmap for your business success. You will learn how to grow your existing small business through strategic planning, utilizing short-term and long-term marketing strategies tailored specifically to you and your industry, and implement personal and professional success strategies. For more information and to access show notes, please visit SmallBiz101Podcast.com

Language:

English


Episodes

Money Moves: Unlocking Business Growth and Financial Freedom - SB024

3/13/2024
As a small business owner, do you ever find yourself thinking or feeling: You don't have what it takes to make this business work Guilty asking for money or a certain level of payment. You just want to provide your service and not worry about charging. Resistant to raising your rates to match the value you provide You hate selling When you do surpass your financial goals, you don't give yourself credit or celebrate Those are just some of the mindsets Christine Mathieu discusses the importance of overcoming on this call. Curious what Money Type you currently embody? (I loved this archetype discussion!) Take the money type quiz here: https://www.noteadvisor.com/the-money-types-quiz/ Give this a watch, think about your own money mindset and reach out to Christine if you'd like support: christine@noteadvisor.com As always, if you're looking for streamlined strategic growth in your business, visit my website, https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ You can download a free copy of my Maximize Your Profits guide right on the home page.

Duration:00:40:11

Sales Spark: Igniting Success In Your Small Business - SB023

2/21/2024
In this episode, we’re joined by the founder and principal of Integrated Management & Sales Consulting Denise Horan. Denise also launched a national sales platform, Sales Club USA where sales and other professionals can go for resources, events, clubs, guest speakers and more. During our conversation Denise shares with us the importance of sales and marketing along with being active in your community. There are some great sales tips for small business owners that you’re not going to want to miss. About Denise: Denise Horan, the founder and principal of Integrated Management & Sales Consulting, provides solutions to help organizations grow revenues, find new marketing opportunities and develop effective sales and management leaders. She also launched a national sales platform, Sales Club USA where sales and other professionals can go for resources, events, clubs, guest speakers and more. Most recently, Denise has launched her first book, Stories From The Sales Field, a collection of 60+ interviews from great sales performers. Denise has been recognized by the YWCA for advancing the empowerment of women, by the Stakeholders as Volunteer of the Year, The Women’s Employment & Resource Center as a pearl of wisdom and empowerment and by The Capital Region Chamber of Commerce as a Women of Excellence. You can get in touch with Denise by emailing her: denise@imsconsulting.net or denise@salesclubusa.com And by visiting her website: https://www.denisehoran.com/ or https://www.salesclubusa.com/ --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:29:31

How to Keep Clients Coming Back: Insights from Alex Theis - SB022

11/17/2023
In this special episode of the Small Biz 101 Podcast, we're thrilled to have Alex Theis, a renowned expert in client relationships and business growth, join us to delve into the critical subject of client retention. Discover how focusing on client retention can be your secret weapon for breaking through revenue plateaus and achieving long-term business success. About Alex: Alex is an international speaker, author, consultant, and podcast host. He specializes in helping organizations and individuals reach new levels of growth and success by breaking through their self-imposed limits. His innovative sales and retention programs have created well over $100 million in revenue for his clients. His podcast episodes have been downloaded over 5 million times, and he is also a best-selling author of the books Limitless Leadership, Hiking The Timberline Trail, and Surviving Section A on the Pacific Crest Trail. You can learn more about Alex and check out his own podcast by visiting: https://www.alextheis.com/podcast --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies, and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:36:37

Digital Edge: Meeting New Website Standards For Business Success - SB021

10/3/2023
In this episode we were joined by Brandon Hills, web designer and founder of Good Steward Designs. Together we discussed the importance of having a professional custom website, along with new accessibility requirements that can both help and protect your business. About Brandon Hills: Brandon has been involved in web design since he first picked up a book to learn in 2017. Starting his first website design and development business in 2018 he gradually transitioned to become specialized in website accessibility. After finding that many designers and developers were not equipped to correct the accessibility problems found on their clients' websites, he started Good Steward Designs. Now he helps business owners upgrade from their do-it-yourself website to a new professional and fully compliant design. Get in touch with Brandon: Website: https://www.goodstewarddesigns.com/ Email: brandon@goodstewarddesigns.com Phone: 607-235-5708 --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:33:29

Focus on Purpose: How Headshot Photography Reflects and Amplifies Business Success - SB020

9/13/2023
In this episode we were joined by Women's Portraiture Artist and Photography, Elizabeth Snyder. Together we discussed her photography experience, along with why headshot photography is so important for professionals. We also dived into her Passion, Purpose, Power! Masterclass that is designed to help women find their purpose by recognizing their passions. About Elizabeth: Elizabeth Snyder is a women's portraiture artist, confidence expert, and workshop leader passionately committed to helping women feel their best. She specializes in women's portraiture, branding, and headshots because it is her mission to help women feel their worth in any situation. Elizabeth has decades of photography experience and has won many awards for her artistry. These awards include The Portrait Masters competitions, the Castellani Art Museum's 20/20 Vision: Women Artists in Western New York exhibition, the WeddingWire Couples Choice award, and the top 10 photographers in Buffalo through Expertise. To learn more about Elizabeth, and see examples of her amazing work, visit: https://www.elizabethsnyderphotography.com/ --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:29:20

Discovering Your Niche, Embracing Your Values: A Path to Meaningful Success - SB019

8/9/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with start-up clarity coach and founder of Humanity Inc., Melissa Davis. Together we delved into the importance of discovering your ideal niche and how understanding and embracing your core values can be the catalyst for creating a thriving and impactful business. We also discussed identifying and connecting with your target audience, while aligning your values to infuse authenticity and purpose into every aspect of your entrepreneurial journey. About Melissa Davis: Melissa Davis is on a mission to make sure that every changemaker has a fair shot at bringing their impact to the world. Through her work with startups, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, she's uncovered an invaluable process for helping them get clarity on their purpose, impact, and perfect business. If you'd like to get in touch with Melissa and her mission, you can visit her website: https://www.humanityinc.world/ And get her Values Exercise for Impact-Driven Entrepreneurs here: https://bit.ly/S2S-Values-Exercise --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:42:01

Hidden Treasures: Unveiling Small Business Resources at Your Public Library - SB018

7/12/2023
In this episode, we're oined by professional librarian of the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library, Carol Ellen Kowalik-Happy, who reveals the unexpected wealth of tools, materials, and expertise available to small business owners through the public library. We also discussed her one-on-one Book a Librarian sessions that provides entrepreneurs with various topics, including market research, grants, nonprofit resources, and patent, trademark, and copyright. About Carol: Carol Ellen Kowalik-Happy has been a professional librarian for over 15 years. She is an energetic and dedicated librarian and educator with a strong passion for serving diverse communities. As a Small Business Librarian, she provides one-on-one Book a Librarian sessions on various topics, including market research, grants, nonprofit resources, and patent, trademark, and copyright. You can get in touch with Carol by emailing her: kowalik-happyc@buffalolib.org And be sure to visit the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library’s website which is a great starting point for the tools we mentioned today. https://www.buffalolib.org/subject-guides/business-and-finance/small-business --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:45:43

The Power of an Online Business Manager - SB017

6/8/2023
In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Tiffany Pavelka, founder of Red Cape Consulting. Red Cape is my OBM and has done a wonderful job helping me with my own business. Having a business manager can have a huge impact on a business and during our conversation we discuss what she’s done for myself, and her other clients. In addition to this, we delved into a discussion on staying current with the most recent trends, maximizing efficiency in business operations, and Tiffany's insights on best practices and lessons learned throughout her company's 5-year anniversary. About Tiffany: Tiffany Pavelka is the CEO and Founder of Red Cape Consulting, a relationship-based marketing and business management company that partners with thought leaders worldwide to deliver life-changing business results. She strongly believes in the power of authentic connections, both in business and life. Empowering her clients to achieve their business goals while fostering lifelong relationships. If you'd like to get in touch with Tiffany, you can contact her by email at: tiffany@redcaperesults.com or visit Red Cape’s website at https://redcaperesults.com/ --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:35:39

Business Success Interview with Janna Willoughy-Lehr - SB016

5/25/2023
In this episode we chat with Janna Willoughy-Lehr, the owner of Papercraft Miracles, a company specializing in handmade stationery and paper goods. Janna shares some of the strategies she uses to stay on track and productive and the unique approach Janna takes to differentiate herself from other companies in the crowded handmade stationery market. We also explore Janna's "why" - the reason she started Papercraft Miracles. About Janna: Janna Willoughby-Lohr is a talented artist, poet, musician, and entrepreneur from Buffalo, NY. Her company, Papercraft Miracles, specializes in crafting paper art that brings meaning to people's lives. She's been recognized for her work by winning the Ignite Buffalo Grant and being named 40-Under-40 by Stationery Trends Magazine and is the host of Reach the Stars Podcast and a dedicated member of the NAWBO’s Buffalo/Niagara Chapter, where she leads the membership committee and serves as a founding member of the Diversity & Inclusion Task Force. Janna is a mother of three who enjoys bright colors, small things, and giggling. You can learn more about Janna and her company, Papercraft Miracles by visiting: https://www.papercraftmiracles.com/ Email: janna@papercraftmiracles.com Instagram: @papercraftmiracles Gallery works and artists books: https://www.papercraftmiracles.com/galleryworks --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:01:02:45

How Body Self-Image Impacts Business Success - SB015

5/10/2023
In this episode we talk with Tabitha Sweeney on the impact of body self-image on business success. Tabitha delves into the profound impact that body image has on other areas of our lives, such as our sense of worthiness, boundaries, and our ability to attract abundance. She shares her insights on how we can align our lives with our authentic selves and explains why it's crucial for our overall wellbeing and success. Additionally, we discuss why we may experience frequent failures in achieving our goals and how we can overcome this pattern. About Tabitha: Tabitha Sweeney is a highly respected champion and mentor who empowers female entrepreneurs and business owners to enhance their net worth and revenue by embracing authenticity and self-worth. She firmly believes that a healthy body image is the cornerstone of a successful life and guides women in repairing the foundation of their self-image. Connect with Tabitha and learn more about her June 2nd Failure to Success program! https://hustling-motivator-4937.ck.page/2654bc046d Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tabithalynnsweeney Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabithalynnsweeney/ Podcast: https://bit.ly/42BZnAq --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:38:26

Legal Considerations for Small Business Owners - SB014

4/15/2023
In this episode we’re talking to attorneys Alyssa Gross and Ruth George. We discuss the significance of having an attorney in ALL stages of a business, from start to end, as well as the importance of estate planning for your enterprise. So many nuggets of wisdom shared! About Alyssa: Alyssa Gross is an associate attorney at William C. Moran & Associates, PC, where she has practiced for six years. Her practice focuses on corporate and nonprofit law, advising both types of entities throughout their life cycle from start up through operation to transition or sale, including commercial real estate matters, employee issues, obtaining tax exempt status for nonprofits, and purchase and sale of business entities. About Ruth: Ruth P. George, Esq. is an Estate Planning and Probate Attorney with over 15 years of experience in trusts, estates, and real estate law. She strives to find that extra way to help clients better prepare for the future. She cares about protecting individuals from making mistakes, ensuring their assets are handled properly, and proactively planning to better the lives of people they love. If you'd like to get in touch with Alyssa or Ruth you can contact them by email: Alyssa: agross@moranlawyers.com Ruth: ruth@ruthpgeorgelaw.com --------------------- Learn more about Scattered to Streamlined at: https://scatteredtostreamlined.com/ Join our Facebook group and join other small business owners working together to provide the best tips, strategies and value to elevate each other: https://www.facebook.com/groups/streamlinedbusinessstrategies

Duration:00:47:59

SCORE - Interview with Letasha Montgomery, Buffalo/Niagara Chapter Administrator - SB013

5/15/2017
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________ In this episode we welcome Buffalo/Niagara SCORE Chapter Administrator, Letasha Montgomery! If you are starting a business and have not heard of SCORE or have not explored your local chapter, you MUST head there today at www.score.org! SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. Because SCORE's work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to its network of 11,000+ volunteers, SCORE is able to deliver its services at no charge or at very low cost. SCORE provides: Volunteer MENTORS who share their expertise across 62 industriesFree, confidential business MENTORING in person or via emailFree business TOOLS, templates and tips onlineInexpensive or free business WORKSHOPS (locally) and webinars (online 24/7)SCORE's 320+ chapters hold events and workshops locally across the U.S. and its territories, and match up entrepreneurs with local, volunteer mentors. In 2016, SCORE helped clients start over 54,000 small businesses!! Next Event! Be sure to check out SCORE's next online event: The Small Business Success Virtual Conference on June 8, 2017. This half-day event offers educational webinars, exhibitor booths, and networking chat rooms to give you the information you need to succeed as a small business owner. You’ll hear from a number of industry experts as they share insider tips on various aspects of marketing, sales, financing, hiring, choosing a business location and more. Our Guest: Letasha Montgomery has been working with SCORE for several years now, initially as a volunteer mentor and most recently as the Chapter Administrator for the Buffalo/Niagara SCORE Chapter. In this interview, Letasha shares with us the many offerings of SCORE as well as some terrific local success stories, including one involving two goats! To reach Letasha for more information about her work or the resources available through SCORE, please email her at LetashaSCOREBuffalo@gmail.com. Free eBook: Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business If you would like more information about how to find your ideal small business, please help yourself to a free copy of my eBook: "Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business". Although it was written with side businesses in mind, the process for determining your own small business is very much the same. Ask Your Questions or Share Your Feedback In the comments section of these show notes. At the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page By email at smallbiz101podcast@gmail.com Connect with Me At my business website, Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Join the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Connect with me on Twitter Subscribe, rate, and review in iTunes

Duration:00:31:32

Free & Low-cost Resources for Starting Your Small Business - SB012

5/9/2017
Free and Low-cost Small Biz Resources Online: Small Business AdministrationUSA.gov Entrepreneur.com Local: Small Business Development Centers Co-sharing work spacesService Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE)1 Million Cups Local library Business specific: AssociationsMentors Task specific: Market research: Small Biz 101 Podcast Episode 9: Research, Research, ResearchMarketingOnline marketing guides and coursesAmerican Marketing AssociationAny business topic: Online guides and coursesYouTubeDummies Books! When a Business Coach Makes Sense Where a business coach or consultant comes into play is when you’ve exhausted these resources and still need: Advice personalized to your businessSomeone with whom you can discuss ideas and narrow down choicesSomeone to help pull together the plan for you, finalizing the details and developing the action stepsSomeone to hold you accountable and celebrate the successes! Application Select one or two of the resources to explore. Get started today! Next Episode Interview with Letasha Montgomery, Buffalo-Niagara Chapter Administrator for SCORE Free eBook: Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business If you would like more information about how to find your ideal small business, please help yourself to a free copy of my eBook: "Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business". Although it was written with side businesses in mind, the process for determining your own small business is very much the same. Ask Your Questions or Share Your Feedback In the comments section of these show notes. At the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page By email at smallbiz101podcast@gmail.com Connect with Me At my business website, Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Join the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Connect with me on Twitter Subscribe, rate, and review in iTunes

Duration:00:32:02

Financing Sources for Your Small Business - SB011

3/23/2017
Find the Right Biz for You Series (Part 10) Welcome to Episode 11 of the Small Biz 101 Podcast – The 10th and final episode of the Find the Right Biz for You Series. We’ve covered quite a bit in past series episodes: Self-assessmentGenerating business ideasBusiness stylesBusiness cautionsResearch - Is your idea a viable one?What will your business idea cost? Now that you have an idea of the business costs, where will that money come from? In this episode, I cover the following sources of funding: SelfFamily, friends, associatesDebt financingGrantsEquity financingCrowdfunding Self-funding Funding the business with the owner’s own money is the #1 source of financing for most small businesses. It’s also the one I almost always recommend for my small business clients, if they can swing it. Where might your money come from? Inventory your assetsYou may find you have more assets than you thought. Perhaps, an investment account that’s skyrocketed with the market the last few years.You may find assets you can sell to support starting up your business.SavingsFrom what you currently earnConsider moonlighting for the sole purpose of saving for your new businessPersonal credit cards If you go this route, be sure to get the lowest credit card rate possible and NEVER be late or miss a payment, as often those rates go up with one missed/late payment.If using a currently-owned credit card, call the card company and ask to have your rate lowered.If using a new card, get one with the lowest rates. Check out these sources to find current offerings for hundreds of cards: bankrate.com, creditcards.com, www.lowcards.com Home equity loan There may be tax benefits to going this route and usually the rates are lower than from other sources. Be sure you will be able to pay it back or you could lose your home. Borrow against retirement 401(k) accounts Last choice source of self-funding. If you go this route, pay it back as quickly as possible. If you lose your job, you will be required to pay the total amount back within a very short period of time. You also will be double-taxed on the money as you pay back the loan with already-taxed money and have to pay taxes again when you withdraw the funds at retirement. Family, Friends, Associates People who know you and your work ethic and who like your idea often may be willing to support you. Here are some guidelines to follow: Never ask someone for money who you know may already be in any kind of financial trouble. If, for some reason you can’t pay them back, you’ve not only put your financial situation at risk, but you’ve harmed someone else – someone very important to you. Keep it professional. Like with any financial transaction, keep your interactions business-like. Give the person loaning you money your complete business plan and review in detail the financial section. Keep the emotion out of the interaction and don’t use your relationship as a way of “guilt-ing” someone into supporting you. If the person you have approached declines to help you, accept their answer graciously and move on. Do not let this hurt the relationship. Be sure to put the terms of the arrangement in writing. Include how much you will be borrowing, for what purpose, and what the terms are for paying the loan back. Sometimes it makes sense for you to give your personal connection a percentage interest in your new business in exchange for their money. This may provide tax advantages for the lender and it can incentivize the person to loan you money knowing that if the company takes off, their investment will increase in value. Keep the person updated as to how things are going with the business, even if your news is not as positive as you would like. It’s always better that they know the truth. Pay on time and as you agreed upon. Stick with your end of the deal. Debt Financing This is a loan made to you by a bank or commercial lending organization that must be repaid. There are hundreds of different types of loans for...

Duration:00:37:36

How Much Will It Cost to Start My Business? - SB010

3/14/2017
Find the Right Biz for You Series (Part 9) Welcome to Episode 10 of the Small Biz 101 Podcast – The 9th episode of the Find the Right Biz for You Series! We’ve covered quite a bit in previous episodes: Self-assessmentGenerating Biz ideasBusiness StylesBusiness CautionsResearch - Is you idea a viable one? Today, we’ll get into the numbers. The finances: What you anticipate the costs will be to start the business?What the ongoing costs will be?Determining your cash flow and – the highlight – what is your breakeven point? When will your business turn the corner into profitability. Start-up costs Even at this early stage, it’s a good idea to at least have a sense of these numbers. They will reveal many critical things to you: How much you will need to begin to open the doors.Whether you afford the business on your own.Whether you need to put off starting the business for a bit while you save money.Should you use other sources of financing? When we think of start-up costs, we often think of these only having to do with the beginning of a business. I suggest that, if you have a business, it’s still relatively new, and you plan on making major changes once you’ve gotten it up and running, consider these new phases of the business to be start up costs as well. Property Down payment, if purchasing spaceRent, if renting space + security depositBuild-out Costs Equipment Facility equipmentOffice furnitureTechnology equipmentInitial suppliesDecoratingSignageLightingStarting inventory Licenses, permits, certification costs Professional fees: AccountantAttorney – his/her own fees + incorporation feesBusiness CoachGraphic DesignerWebsite designerPerson who comes to your location to set up your computers and phones Professional Development: Education/CertificationsMembershipsProfessional library Online Technology Expenses: Domain nameWebhostingOnline SchedulerOnline payment processing Opening/Launch Activities: Advertising and other marketing costsBrochures, flyersBusiness cards Add on 15%. Rarely do actual costs come in below estimates. Give yourself a cushion. Cash Flow and Break even Analysis Estimate of the gross income you anticipate generating on a monthly basis Estimate your ongoing monthly expenses: Rent/mortgageInsuranceUtilitiesOnline chargesLoan paymentsMarketing and advertising feesEmployee salariesYour salaryOngoing independent contractor feesInventory costsTaxesMaintenance+ 15% Plot these estimates out in a spread sheet deducting the monthly expenses from the monthly gross income to calculate your anticipated net profit or loss. Once at the profit level, begin reimbursing your start-up costs, a chunk at a time. When you reach the point where your income consistently covers your expenses and the start-up costs have been reimbursed, this is your Breakeven Point. Celebrate!!! The cash flow and breakeven analysis will also provide you with valuable information: How much money will you need to set aside to support the business until it reaches a profit point?Do you need to adjust factors around the source of your income (even changing your business model, possibly) to take your business into the black in a time frame that works for you?Can you cut expense estimates to meet your needs?Do you have enough money to start this business on your own or will you need to obtain funding from other sources? Coming up Getting creative with sources of financing: YouYour family, friends, and associatesDebt financingEquity financingCrowdsourcing Other valuable free or low-cost resources for starting up a small business. Free eBook: Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business If you would like more information about how to find your ideal small business, please help yourself to a free copy of my eBook: "Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business". Although it was written with side businesses in mind, the process for determining your own small business is very much the same. Also, go back and listen to previous episodes...

Duration:00:34:40

Research, Research, Research - SB009

3/7/2017
Find the Right Biz for You Series (Part 8) Now that you know what business you would like to start, Should you make the leap into small business ownership? Make sure you've done all of your research before making this decision. Whether you are in the process of deciding on your business idea or have already made the decision and are working on the market research section of your business plan, follow along for a variety of resources for beginning your search. Three Areas to Explore: The IndustryThe CompetitionThe Clients/Customers Sources of Information: Industry groups and associationsIndustry publications, articles, and newsletters/blogsIndustry conferencesVisit the competition and evaluate - Online and In-personLocal Chamber of CommerceMarketresearch.comCensus.govUSA.govLocal libraryConnect with someone already successful in the businessShare idea and get feedback from supportive friends, family, and colleaguesDevelop list of potential customers and survey:Online, phone, email surveysFocus group Free eBook: Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business If you would like more information about how to find your ideal small business, please help yourself to a free copy of my eBook: "Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business". Although it was written with side businesses in mind, the process for determining your own small business is very much the same. Ask Your Questions or Share Your Feedback In the comments section of these show notes. At the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page By email at smallbiz101podcast@gmail.com Please Connect with Me At my business website, Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Join the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Connect with me on Twitter Subscribe, rate, and review in iTunes

Duration:00:43:17

From College Basketball Coaching to Financial Advising - SB008

2/26/2017
Right Biz for You Series (Part 7) Can you imagine how scary it might be to transition from a long career in athletics to one in a completely different industry about which you knew very little? Well, today's guest, Jeff Olinger, did it and did it well! Within a short period of time Jeff reached the top 10% level of his new organization, opened his own office, and currently is expanding his business. I am excited to present to you this interview in which Jeff tells us how he took the valuable experiences and skills he learned as a college basketball coach and transferred many of them effectively into the financial industry. While his is a story of transitioning from athletics to business, what we discuss applies to anyone moving from one industry to another. In this interview, you will hear practical applications of the fundamentals included in earlier episodes of this Right Biz for You Series, as well as tips and resources for continuing to grow a business once established. Jeff shares with us his stories about the importance of: Communication and connection with others - in all stages of business development, from researching a new industry to starting up a new field, to increasing success within that fieldMentorshipPutting vision, goals, and objectives to paperDreaming BIG!Surrounding oneself with good people For more information about Jeff Olinger and his inspiring work, please visit: Jeff Olinger Thrivent Financial connect.thrivent.com/jeff-olinger 563-382-1809 Jeff.Olinger@Thrivent.com Coming Up: I will be continuing the series on finding your ideal small business idea. I’ll be discussing how to determine the viability of your business idea. Does it have legs? We will review current methods for researching your proposed industry, business, and competitors. Free eBook: Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business If you would like more information about how to find your ideal small business, please help yourself to a free copy of my eBook: "Passion to Prosperity: Finding Your Ideal Side Business". Although it was written with side businesses in mind, the process for determining your own small business is very much the same. Ask Your Questions or Share Your Feedback In the comments section of these show notes At the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Personally, by email at smallbiz101podcast@gmail.com Please Connect with Me Let's schedule a free consultative call to discuss your small business needs and questions! You may reach me: At my business website, Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Join the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Connect with me on Twitter Subscribe, rate, and review in iTunes

Duration:00:34:03

Three Critical Small Business Cautions - SB007

2/16/2017
Find the Right Biz for You Series (Part 6) When determining the ideal small business for you, make sure you give consideration to potential pitfalls and address them before they become significant issues. Caution #1 – Current Employer Considerations Many people start their businesses as a side business, building up their new venture during off hours, after work and weekends, while continuing to work a full time job. A side business is a great way to test the waters of your business idea; however, there are some preliminary cautions to consider. Employment Agreement If your idea for a business involves providing a similar service or product to what your employer currently provides, consider whether you have an employment agreement with your employer. If so, check to see if it contains a non-compete clause. If it does, read it carefully to see: what the clause prohibits you from doing; for what period of time; and within what geographic range. Then check with an attorney who works in the employment law field in your state. Even if the clause appears to not apply to your circumstances, it is important to obtain a legal opinion. Your employer might see another perspective. Additionally, each US state has its own regulations and court opinions pertaining to non-competes. In some states, these agreements are close to unenforceable with the requirements for these clauses being quite stringent. In others, a broader interpretation may be permitted. Alternatively, it may appear that the non-compete clause does directly apply to your new business idea. Don’t be discouraged. Again, check with an attorney in your state. Sometimes employers create these clauses without even knowing (or caring) whether they are enforceable because just having the language tends to have a chilling effect and may deter someone from working for a competitor or becoming a competitor just for the clause’s existence. A reminder, I am not an attorney and am not providing legal advice. I’ve just worked in the employment law compliance field long enough to know that if such a clause exists, an attorney’s opinion is critical before moving forward with your business. Employment Manual Even if you do not have an employment agreement between you and your employer, that does not mean you are in the clear. There may be a non-compete clause in your employment manual. If so, seek that legal opinion! Other company policies may also require consideration, whether or not your proposed business is related in any way to that of your employer’s. One policy to look out for is usually called something like Outside or Secondary Employment. What these policies typically state is that your job with your current employer is your primary responsibility and no other job or venture may take priority. Any time your employer requires you to work, including overtime or any time not on your regular schedule, you may not be permitted to allow another job or business to interfere. This policy may also state that you are required to tell your employer if you intend on working for a second employer, including yourself. Prior approval of your employer may be required. Your Time, Your Equipment, Your Supplies Often it is tempting to work on researching your new business ideas or working on establishing your new venture while work is slow at your employment location. Fight the temptation! Never put your current source of financial income in jeopardy by crossing this line. Additionally, never use company equipment (e.g. computers, phones, software) for work on your business. This includes company-owned laptops or phones you are permitted to take home. Usually companies limit use of their equipment to their business purposes only. Same goes for office or work supplies, no matter how seemingly small or insignificant. Tell Your Employer If you feel your employer will be supportive of your decision to begin a side business or start a new small business, by all means, let your bosses...

Duration:00:39:14

Book Talk: The Slight Edge and More! - SB006

1/29/2017
Join my guest, Howard Holliday, and me as we discuss our recent professional development book club selection, The Slight Edge. While I hadn't intended to do book reviews on this podcast, I found the principles contained in this book to be too good not to share. Hope you enjoy our lively discussion of this and other books that have impacted our lives. Resources: The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan The 10x Rule by Grant Cardone The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy The Success Principles by Jack Canfield War of Art by Steven Pressfield Turning Pro by Steven Pressfield The Bible (I'll let you select the version you prefer) The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Waddles Awaken the Giant Within by Anthony Robbins Howard Holliday Contact Information: On LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter Email: hholliday3@gmail.com In the Buffalo area and interested in joining our Professional Development Book Club? Join us here Ask Your Questions or Share Your Feedback In the comments section of these show notes. At the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Personally, by email at cwhitesell@scatteredtostreamlined.com Please Connect with Me At my business website, Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Join the Scattered to Streamlined Business Coaching Facebook Page Connect with me personally on Facebook and on Twitter Subscribe, rate, and review in iTunes Disclosure This post may contain links to products or services with which I have an affiliate relationship. Any commissions or bonuses I receive from your actions on such links go to support the continued production of this podcast.

Duration:00:44:56

Top 10 Online Businesses for On-the-Move People - SB005

1/22/2017
[shortcode-variables slug="subscribe"] Find the Right Biz for You Series (Part 5) One statement I hear often is: “I want to start a business but I’m not sure what I want that business to be”. If you have that same feeling, you are in the right place. With these first several episodes of this podcast, I am walking you through this process of discovery to help you find the ideal small business for you. In Episode 001, we discussed the importance of conducting a self-assessment (and how to do so). In Episode 003, I talked about the various business styles, how to generate business ideas and gave you some tools to help you determine your own ideal business. Along the way, in Episodes 002 and 004, you heard interviews with people either reinforcing the discussed concepts or sharing their own experiences. If you haven’t heard these yet, I encourage you to go back and check these episodes out. Wouldn’t it be great to make 2017 the Year of Your New Business? In this episode, I am providing my top 10 list of online businesses for people on the move. I created this list initially as a blog post for Sisters in Sports, an online community for wives of professional athletes and college/professional coaches. I am the wife of a college basketball coach and, in the last five years, have lived in five different homes in three different states as a result of my husband's job. I've loved every (almost) minute of this adventure, but also found it took its toll on my work. There are many other wives/partners in athletics in the same boat – maybe in jobs they couldn’t keep or having their own businesses they could not maintain. Although we hear regularly about professional athletes and big time coaches making six or seven figure incomes, the reality is these people make up a minuscule percentage of this workforce. As a result, it is still important for most partners to contribute to the household income. As I was creating this list, I started thinking about how these businesses apply to many more people outside the athletics world. These work for anyone who is on the move – military spouses, for example – or anyone who likes to travel and wants to take his or her own business with them. These are proven, profitable online entrepreneurial ideas that allow you to be your own boss and work on your own time. The Top 10 Online Businesses for On-the-Move People 1. Virtual Assistant Most virtual assistants work on a freelance basis, performing many, if not all, of the functions of an executive assistant: • Preparing attractive presentation materials • Formatting business correspondence, contracts, and proposals • E-mail management • Travel arrangements • Managing social correspondence This work may be performed from the comfort of your home with just a computer. Non-urgent work usually may be performed on your own schedule. If you move, it makes no difference to your clients. You may begin developing this business immediately by: • Reaching out to people you already know who may be in need of this assistance or who may know of someone else who could use this type of help. • Working for someone else who runs his or her own virtual assistance service. Typically, these businesses have clients already or have inquiries coming to them regularly so they need skilled, reliable people to do the work. • Sign up to perform work as a freelancer under an online service such as Upwork, Freelancer, or Thumbtack. 2. Graphic Designer Are you skilled at designing or creating: • Logos and brand identity products? • Business and advertising products such as: brochures, business cards, postcards, website and social media banners? • Graphic designs for clothing and merchandise, such as mugs, hats, and t-shirts? • Book or magazine illustrations, invitations, and greeting cards? • Labels for beverage, food, or retail packaging? Use those skills online, from wherever you are and whenever works for you. Like virtual assistants, you may hang out your own online shingle or...

Duration:00:15:48