CEO, Brian Moran & Associates: Recent Episodes
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_143-Tyler_Allgaier.mp3
In this episode, Tyler Allgaier, founder and CEO of Pitted Companies, discusses key trends in e-commerce, the importance of fundamentals, and the power of personalized fulfillment.
Key Takeaways from Tyler Allgaier:
- Pitted Labs was founded by two college kids who didn’t know what they didn’t know, sitting at a Taco Bell. We knew we could provide a better service for brands at a lower cost.
- Pitted Logistics was born from the need to find alternative ways to manage fulfillment during the pandemic.
- We differentiate ourselves by being technologically savvy and having a deep understanding of e-commerce.
- In the world of e-commerce, things change so rapidly that you can’t afford to be behind the eight ball.
- AI takes away a lot of the basic data-driven analysis that we would typically spend time on.
- Our venture fund was created because we realized we do just as much, if not more, due diligence than typical VCs.
- Focus on the fundamentals and know exactly who your customer is.
The post The Secret to Long-Term E-Commerce Success: Focus on the Fundamentals appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_142-Dan_Balcauski.mp3
In this episode, Dan Balcauski, founder, and chief pricing officer at Product Tranquility, discusses the intricacies of pricing strategy with host Brian Moran. They explore the importance of focusing on value and differentiation, the pitfalls of cost-based and competition-based pricing, and the need to treat pricing as a dynamic, strategic process.
Key Takeaways from Dan Balcauski:
- What you charge determines your success. Who and how you charge determines your success even more.
- I would spend most of my time on what the price tag goes on, and little time on the actual number that goes on the price tag.
- Customers don’t care about your costs; they care about the value they receive.”
- The relative value is crucial. Humans notice changes and comparisons, not absolute values.
- Pricing is a process, not an event. It should be treated as a strategic growth lever for your business.
- Most companies stay too long in cost-based or competition-based pricing without understanding customer value
- Understanding customer context and subjective value is key to effective pricing.
- The three Cs of pricing—cost-based, competition-based, and customer value-based—form a ladder of sophistication.
- Every pricing decision involves trade-offs and risks; there are no silver bullets.
- If you haven’t touched your pricing in two years, it’s time to revisit it.
The post Mastering the Art and Science of Pricing: Insights from Dan Balcauski appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_141-Rah_Mahtani.mp3
In this episode, Rah Mahtani, head of North American marketing at Alibaba.com, discusses the evolution and future of B2B e-commerce, the impact of AI on product sourcing, and the significance of Alibaba Guaranteed.
Key Takeaways from Rah Mahtani:
- Alibaba.com exists to level the playing field for small business owners and reduce the barriers of entry into global trading.
- Today, we host over 200,000 suppliers covering 40 different vertical categories, offering nearly 200 million products.
- Our main clients are SMEs, with about 48 million active buyers using the platform today.”
- Alibaba Guaranteed offers fixed pricing, guaranteed dispatch within 72 hours, and fast money-back for any order issues.
- With our enhanced image search, you can take a picture of a product and find suppliers offering similar items, even with customizations.
- Our smart assistant AI helps fill knowledge gaps by providing detailed industry insights and product development advice.
The post AI and B2B E-commerce: Insights from Alibaba.com’s Rah Mahtani appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_140-4th_of_July.mp3
In this Episode: Brian celebrates America’s 248th birthday by reflecting on the historical significance of July 4, 1776. He recounts the momentous day when 56 delegates from 13 colonies gathered in Independence Hall, Philadelphia, to endorse the Declaration of Independence, committing an act of treason against the British crown.
Facts About Independence Day:
Historical Gathering: On July 4, 1776, 56 delegates representing 13 colonies met at Independence Hall in Philadelphia to discuss and endorse the Declaration of Independence.
Famous Figures: Notable figures present included John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson, the primary author of the Declaration.
Declaration’s Wording: Thomas Jefferson originally wrote “the pursuit of property” but changed it to “the pursuit of happiness” in the Declaration.
Presidents’ Deaths: John Adams and Thomas Jefferson, both signers of the Declaration, died on the same day, July 4, 1826. President James Monroe also died on July 4, 1831.
Signers on July 4: Only two people signed the Declaration on July 4, 1776: John Hancock and Charles Thomson.
Holiday Recognition: Congress declared July 4 as an official holiday in 1870, nearly 100 years after the Declaration, as part of a bill that also recognized Christmas and other holidays.
Youngest and Oldest Signers: Thomas Lynch Jr., at 27, was the youngest signer, while Benjamin Franklin, at 70, was the oldest.
British-Born Signers: Eight of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence were born in Britain.
The post Happy Independence Day America! appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_139-SMB_Roundtable.mp3
In this special episode of the Small Business Edge Podcast, Brian leads a discussion with business leaders on the economic outlook for the second half of 2024, emphasizing the importance of relationships, transparency, and strategic planning to address upcoming challenges.
Key Takeaways from Our Expert Panel:
Andrew ShermanGeoff FosterKara HoogensenJill JohnsonAndrew Sherman: The next six months could be a little bit rocky and challenging for small and mid-sized companies due to a lot of uncertainty weighing on the market.
Jill Johnson: What we saw during the pandemic was 40% or so of black-owned businesses shutter their doors, highlighting the stress caused by not having access to capital.
Geoff Foster: Since the pandemic, we have shifted to 65% biopharmaceuticals, which has driven phenomenal growth in our business.
Kara Hoogensen: Businesses are reporting positive year-over-year growth and high degrees of optimism, but inflation remains their top concern.
Andrew Sherman: The health impact of the pandemic may be nearing an end, but the economic effects are just beginning.
Jill Johnson: For black-owned businesses, what seems like a small contraction in the market can feel like a hurricane due to their already limited resources.
Geoff Foster: Adding automation and AI has allowed us to take market share from larger companies and reshore business from Asia.
Kara Hoogensen: Establishing a crisis plan and having a support network in place before things get bumpy is critical to surviving a crisis.
Andrew Sherman: Transparency builds trust, trust builds empathy, empathy builds loyalty, and loyalty builds brand.
The post Winning the Second Half of 2024: Expert Insights on Economic Challenges, AI, and Building Strong Business Relationships appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_138-2030_SMB-Barbara_Weltman.mp3
In this special episode of the Small Business Edge Podcast, Brian kicks off the 2030 SMB Project podcast series by discussing the state of digital currency with Barbara Weltman, an expert in small business taxes and the president of Big Ideas for Small Business.
Key Takeaways from Barbara Weltman:
- Cash, plastic, checks, and electronic transfers like PayPal and Venmo are still prevalent. Now, we’re seeing the rise of cryptocurrency.
- Approximately 2,300 companies in the U.S. are using cryptocurrency regularly.
- In the IRS’s view, crypto is property, not currency, similar to gold.
- Crypto transactions must be tracked meticulously for tax purposes.
- Realized gains are taxable, while unrealized gains are not until another transaction occurs.
- Businesses must adopt technology like crypto wallet trackers to manage digital currency transactions efficiently.
- Software like Gilded integrates with QuickBooks to track crypto.
- The UCC amendment will treat digital currency like other payment methods, facilitating its use as collateral.
- Sales tax on digital products varies by state and depends on whether the product is being downloaded or accessed.
The post The 2030 SMB Project Series: Talking Digital Currency with Barbara Weltman appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_137-David_Rabkin.mp3
In This Episode: David Rabkin, Executive Vice President at Capital One, shares results from a recent survey on how business owners are navigating challenges and leveraging technology to thrive. We discussed key strategies for resilience, the impact of digital tools, and the role of AI in small business.
Key Takeaways:
- 90% of small business owners are now using digital tools, which is impressive given the analog nature of much of the economy.
- Creating awareness and developing solutions to reach smaller and newer businesses is a massive opportunity for us.”
- Despite challenges, a significant majority of business owners believe in their ability to solve their problems. Confidence and a positive mindset are crucial.
- Actively seeking and learning from customer feedback can lead to beneficial pivots in products, services, and business models.
- AI can automate processes, improve business performance, and help redefine strategies. Small businesses should explore AI tools to stay competitive.
- There are numerous free resources available from federal, state, and local agencies. Business owners should take advantage of these to gain financial and operational support.
The post Adapting and Thriving: Small Business Insights from Capital One’s David Rabkin appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_136-Veronica_Fernandez.mp3
In This Episode: Veronica Fernandez, SVP of Commercial Solutions at Visa, discusses solutions, resources, optimism, and the impact of digital payments, all in the name of supporting business owners.
Key Takeaways from Veronica Fernandez:
- Our goal is to help businesses of all sizes pay and get paid more efficiently.
- COVID really drove the consumerization of B2B payments. Businesses today expect global access to finances to be quick, digital, transparent, and customized.
- The Visa Small Business Hub offers resources on how to start, manage, and grow your business, including tools to find small business credit or debit cards.
- According to the Visa Small Business Pulse Survey, 59% of small businesses feel optimistic about the economy, and 77% expect similar growth in 2024.
- Visa actively supports women and minority-owned businesses through initiatives like the She’s Next program, which offers grants, education, and networking opportunities.
- Small businesses can benefit from using virtual cards, supplier matching services, and other digital payment solutions to improve efficiency and cash flow management
The post Get Paid in 3, 2, 1…My Conversation with Veronica Fernandez, SVP, Commercial Solutions at Visa. appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_135-Matt_Doherty.mp3
In This Episode: Matt Doherty, an executive coach, and former NCAA basketball champion and coach, shares critical lessons from his life and career, including those learned playing basketball in “The Park” as a teenager. Great advice for business owners and leaders.
Key Takeaways from Matt:
- The lessons we learn are transferable to any person or any business in the world.
- I tell my clients, “Your life is impacted by three things: the people you meet, the books you read, and the trauma in your life.
- If you don’t manage the truth, the truth will manage you right out the door.
- Finding and maintaining passion is crucial for success in both personal and professional life.
- Success in business and sports relies on a merit-based approach where contributions are valued over other factors.
- Having mentors can significantly impact personal development and confidence.
- Lifelong learning and adapting from experiences, books, and interactions are essential for growth and resilience.
The post The Gates of Heaven: Matt Doherty on the Lessons He Learned Playing Basketball in the Park. appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_134-Mary_Stephenson.mp3
In This Episode: Mary Stephenson works with successful leaders as a coach and facilitator. She shares the keys to balanced leadership, the importance of self-care, and creating workspaces for innovation to thrive.
Thoughts on Balanced Leadership From Mary:
- The first thing about to understand about balanced leadership is that it comes from a place of inner self-reflection, inner authenticity, and taking care of yourself.
- Creating a workspace for people to be more authentic allows for higher levels of cognitive ability and innovation.
- Balanced leadership means having the boldness to step into difficult conversations with compassion and set boundaries.
- Leadership in this new era requires enormous courage, self-awareness, and a commitment to continuous practice and self-care.
- Empathy and Structure: While empathy is important, maintaining structure and setting boundaries are crucial for achieving results and managing teams effectively.
The post The Principles of Balanced Leadership: My Conversation with Mary Stephenson appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_133-Chris_Botting.mp3
In This Episode: Chris and Jen Botting share their gripping story of how a life-changing birthday gift led to the early detection of Chris’s kidney cancer, underscoring the life-saving importance of preventative healthcare. This episode is a must-listen for business owners looking to safeguard their future.
Thoughts From Chris and Jen:
- Whether you’re a small employer or large employer, it’s essential to incentivize and encourage your employees to go for those preventative visits – Jen Botting
- I was asymptomatic. I displayed no signs of having cancer in my body whatsoever. It would have gone undetected until maybe it was too late. – Chris Botting
- You have to be the CEO of your own health and demand the type of care and attention that you deserve. – Jen Botting
- It’s the gift that keeps on giving. My wife’s birthday present saved my life. – Chris Botting
- Employees want more—they want a lifestyle spending account, the best health insurance program, and higher dental coverage. Jen Botting
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of preventative healthcare cannot be overstated; early detection can save lives.
- Business owners should consider individual disability insurance and key man insurance to protect both their business and personal finances.
- Employees are more likely to use and appreciate comprehensive health plans that are clearly communicated and explained.
- The ability to pivot quickly in response to unexpected challenges, like a health diagnosis or a pandemic, is crucial for business sustainability.
The post How a Birthday Present from His Wife Saved Chris Botting’s Life appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_130-Tom_Butler.mp3
In This Episode: Tom Butler, Executive Director Worldwide Commercial Portfolio and Product Management at Lenovo, tells Brian how business owners can leverage AI to increase productivity and achieve quick wins. Lots of practical tips and future trends included to help business owners stay ahead of the tech curve.
Insights from Tom Butler:
- Embrace AI for Productivity: AI can significantly enhance business productivity by automating remedial tasks, allowing business owners to focus on more creative and strategic activities.
- Business owners should start on AI with quick wins—the automation of daily tasks, the creation of frameworks for processes, which will help owners operationalize their businesses and save time.
- The AI PC is going to know you, it is going to know your day-to-day activities, your likes, and preferences, and tailor your experience to meet your needs more effectively.
- We are constantly listening to the voice of the customer, testing in the market, and analyzing big data to understand the challenges our customers are facing, ensuring our products meet their needs.
Plan for the Future: While it’s essential to focus on immediate gains, also keep an eye on long-term trends and innovations, such as AI, to ensure your business remains competitive and can scale effectively over time.
The post Unlocking AI for Small Business Success: Quick Wins and Future Trends with Tom Butler of Lenovo appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_129-Norm_Brodsky_.mp3
In This Episode: When it comes to entrepreneurship, Norm Brodsky has seen it all. He’s also experienced the highest highs and lowest lows. In this podcast with Brian Moran, Norm discusses common mistakes business owners make, the value of honest projections, and the importance of reputation over short-term gains. Business owners—plan to take plenty of notes.
Norm’s Pearls of Wisdom for Business Owners:
On Cash Management: “Cash is the hardest commodity to get and the easiest to spend. You have to be very conservative with your assets, particularly cash. Don’t spend it unless you absolutely need it for the business.
On Business Planning and Honesty: “Many first-time entrepreneurs make the mistake of inflating their projections to show that their business will succeed. It’s better to start a smaller business than to project great sales just because your investors want to see them.
On Learning from Mistakes: “Accept your mistakes and learn from them. Every time something goes wrong in one of my companies, I ask myself, ‘What did I do to contribute to this problem?’ This approach helps you understand your business better and prevent similar issues in the future.”
On Building a Positive Company Culture: “Building a positive company culture is crucial. Employees stay because they like the culture and enjoy coming to work.
On Honest Feedback: “Go to people who will give you the truth, no matter how much it hurts. When you seek advice, be honest, and expect honest feedback. You need someone who will tell you the hard truths about your business.”
On Competition and Respect in Your Industry: “You want to be respected by your peers, even your competitors. You want people to say, ‘I know Norm Brodsky. He runs a great business.'”
On Financial Discipline: “Sales are good, but profits are better. A lot of business owners don’t understand this; they want to do more sales without focusing on profits.”
The post The Best Advice You Never Got: My Conversation with Norm Brodsky appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/SBE_Episode_130-Uplinq.mp3
Ron Benegbi,Derek EllingtonIn This Episode: Ron Benegbi, Founder and CEO of Uplinq, and Derek Ellington, a banking executive and strategic advisor to Uplinq, discuss how Uplinq is leveraging technology and alternative data points to greatly improve the lending process to small and mid-sized companies.
Key Takeaways:
- Uplinq addresses the long-standing issue of limited access to credit for small businesses by working with lenders to consider a broader range of data points, aiming to increase approval rates.
- AI is transforming the lending landscape, allowing companies like Uplinq to provide lenders with more comprehensive insights into applicants.
- Uplinq’s collaborations with significant players like Visa, MasterCard, and Ernst & Young are pivotal in extending its impact, offering lenders enhanced underwriting technologies and tools.
- With changes in regulations, such as the CFPB 1071 rule, there’s an increased focus on fair lending practices, and companies like Uplinq play a crucial role in navigating these changes and promoting inclusivity.
- AI’s utilization in analyzing vast data sets to inform lending decisions is a shift towards more data-driven and inclusive lending criteria.
The post The Future of Small Business Lending: Insights from Uplinq appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_125_Rod_Kurtz.mp3
In This Episode: Rod Kurtz, entrepreneur, and storyteller, shares his journey from corporate media to entrepreneurship and emphasizes the power of authentic storytelling in building a compelling brand narrative. He discusses the importance of flexibility, customer feedback, and the innovative “bar pitch” technique, offering valuable lessons for business owners on connecting with their audience and navigating the challenges of today’s dynamic market.
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Authentic Storytelling: Rod emphasizes the importance of genuine storytelling in building a brand. His transition from a journalist to helping businesses tell their stories underlines the need for brands to create compelling, authentic content that resonates with their audience.
Entrepreneurial Mentorship and Education: Rod’s role as the entrepreneur in residence at UCLA Anderson School of Management allows him to engage with emerging businesses and entrepreneurs to get a fresh perspective on the latest trends and innovations.
AI in Business: Rod strongly recommends that companies learn to integrate AI seamlessly into their operations. However, he also advises that leveraging AI should not be the sole focus but part of a broader strategy that includes strong storytelling and brand building.
The Bar Pitch: Rod introduced the concept of the “bar pitch” as a more effective alternative to the traditional elevator pitch. This approach is useful in networking settings (e.g., conference receptions) and when seeking to capture the attention of potential investors or customers quickly.
The post Crafting Your Brand’s Story: Insights from Rod Kurtz, Entrepreneurial Storyteller appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_124_John_Wolpert.mp3
In This Episode: John Wolpert, entrepreneur and innovator, discusses his recently released book: “The Two But Rule: Turn Negative Thinking Into Positive Solutions,” a transformative approach that turns obstacles into opportunities for growth and innovation. Through compelling examples from the Apollo 13 mission to the inception of Calendly, Wolpert demonstrates how this mindset encourages continuous problem-solving and fosters a culture of momentum thinking in business and beyond.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace the “Two But Rule” for Positive Solutions: The Two But Rule is a concept that encourages turning negative thinking into constructive outcomes. This approach is about acknowledging obstacles or criticisms (“but”) and then immediately considering a solution or alternative perspective (“but”), thus fostering a culture of resilience and innovation.
Innovation Through Adversity: Wolpert’s journey from IBM to entrepreneurship illustrates the importance of embracing challenges and leveraging them for innovation. His work in blockchain and co-founding IBM Blockchain highlights how adversity and critical thinking can lead to groundbreaking solutions in technology and business.
Momentum Thinking for Business Growth: The “Two But Rule” is a part of a larger strategy Wolpert calls “Momentum Thinking,” which is designed to propel businesses forward by systematically addressing and overcoming objections and hurdles. This mindset demands continuous movement and adaptation, crucial for business growth and development.
The Importance of Honoring Objections: Wolpert emphasizes the value of listening to and respecting objections within a team. By considering and exploring these “buts,” teams can uncover potential issues, explore alternative solutions, and ensure that all perspectives are considered, leading to more robust and well-rounded decisions.
Creating a Culture of Open Communication: The Two But Rule encourages open communication in which all team members feel comfortable voicing their concerns and suggestions. A culture of transparency and collaboration is key to ensuring that the best ideas are brought to the forefront.
Balancing Leadership and Collaboration: Wolpert touches on the challenge leaders face in respecting and listening to team input while ultimately making decisive choices for the direction of the business. The “Two But Rule” can help leaders navigate this balance by making sure that all opinions are considered but also that decisions are made in a timely and effective manner.
Momentum Thinking for Business Strategy: Wolpert introduces “Momentum Thinking” as a strategic approach to business challenges. This methodology involves continuously pushing forward, using each “but” as a steppingstone towards a solution, thus maintaining momentum in the face of obstacles and ensuring progress towards goals.
Practical Application of the “Two But Rule”: Through examples like Calendly’s development journey, Wolpert illustrates the practical application of the “Two But Rule” in overcoming business challenges. By not shying away from the negatives and instead confronting them with creative solutions, businesses can navigate through difficulties and find success in unexpected ways.
The post Embracing the ‘Two But Rule’: Turning Challenges into Triumphs with John Wolpert appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_122_Sean_Hynes.mp3
In This Episode: Sean Hynes shares his views on persistence in business, informal one-on-one meetings, and dealing with personal issues in professional settings. He also discusses the importance of resilience and diversity in building effective teams.
Key Takeaways:
Tell-Ask-Act (TAA) Model for Employee Development: Sean emphasizes the importance of employees speaking up for themselves to advance in their careers. He suggests a circular model where employees should tell their leaders about their achievements and involvement in initiatives, ask for feedback, act on this feedback, and then check back with their leaders for further guidance. This process helps in continuous personal and professional development.
Communication Challenges in a Hybrid/Remote Work Environment: It can be difficult maintaining effective communication and a strong company culture in the post-COVID era, where hybrid and remote working models are prevalent.
Handling Personal Issues in a Professional Setting: While leaders should be approachable and empathetic, they must also guide employees towards appropriate resources like HR or counseling services when personal issues exceed professional boundaries.
Influence of Personal Background on Leadership: Sean discusses how his father, a longtime Brooklyn district attorney, influenced his leadership style. He learned the value of having a diverse team, gaining energy from team interaction during tough times, and the importance of surrounding himself with people who are not afraid to challenge his ideas.
Navigating Professional Challenges and Failures: Sean stresses the importance of resilience when learning from failures. Done correctly, the lessons learned will ultimately strengthen character and leadership skills.
The post Leading with Empathy and Persistence: Insights from Sean Hynes on Building Trust and Diversity in any Business appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_116_Gregg_Reid.mp3
In this Episode, Gregg Reid, Creative Director at Hundred Studio, shares insights into the challenges and rewards of maintaining a strong, creative, and value-driven approach in branding.
Podcast Highlights from Gregg: Leveraging Opportunities in Adversity: The founding of Hundred Studio during the pandemic demonstrates how perceived adversities can be turned into opportunities. Gregg’s ability to see potential during a challenging time and act on it is a valuable lesson for entrepreneurs.
Being Different in a Competitive Market: By choosing to be different in a market where competitors are becoming more alike, Hundred Studio can offer unique value and stand out.
Avoid the Pitfall of Imitation: Businesses need to watch out for the trap of constantly looking sideways at competitors, which can lead to imitation rather than innovation. He advises learning from different sectors and thinking beyond immediate industry boundaries to gain a competitive edge.
Depth Over Superficial Branding: Gregg emphasizes the importance of depth in branding – every interaction and element should resonate with the brand’s essence, much like every detail in a Martin Scorsese film is meticulously placed.
Effective Brand Strategy Business Owners: A well-defined brand strategy allows any business to be more focused and efficient in their marketing and sales efforts, avoiding wastage on unaligned or broad strategies.
Value of an External, Unbiased Perspective: When entering new markets, the benefit of bringing an outside opinion without preconceived notions or baggage is emphasized. This fresh perspective can lead to innovative solutions unencumbered by industry norms or past practices.
The post Contrarian Branding: Gregg Reid’s Creative Vision for Business Success appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_120_Jen_Kavanagh.mp3
In this Episode: Jalen Hurts and Jason Kelce aren’t the only MVPs on one of the best teams in the NFL. Jen Kavanagh leads a 50-person team that oversees the intricacies of player engagement, creative branding, and community involvement. She masterfully balances individual creativity with team identity and executes on Game Day like a 10-time Pro Bowler!
Inside Jen’s World: Podcast Highlights
Dynamic Work Environment: Jen outlines how her responsibilities shift between the offseason, which is focused on planning and strategizing, and the in-season period, which involves executing those plans.
Community Engagement and Branding: Jen emphasizes the focus her team puts on creating experiences and messages that are true to the Eagles’ identity and the team’s efforts in engaging with the community through various activities.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Jen talks about keeping a repository of ideas, moments, and feedback that helps in shaping future strategies. This approach is vital in industries where trends and audience preferences evolve rapidly.
Player Engagement and Idea Generation: The team’s understanding of players’ interests and personalities allows for the creation of content and activities that resonate both with the players and the fans.
Jason Kelce’s Creative Ventures: The discussion about Jason Kelce’s various projects, such as his album and documentary, illustrates the impact of individual creativity and brand-building within a team. Jen emphasizes how these personal projects not only elevate the player’s profile but also positively impact the team’s brand.
Adaptability and Avoiding Replication: In response to the success of Kelce’s ventures, Jen mentions the importance of not simply trying to replicate these successes. Instead, the focus is on authentic storytelling and exploring new creative avenues.
The post Fly Eagles Fly: A Conversation on Innovation, Branding, and Community Engagement with Jen Kavanagh, SVP, Media & Marketing, Philadelphia Eagles appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_117_Ashley_Hubka.mp3
In This Episode: Ashley Hubka, SVP/GM at Walmart Business, talks about what she learned in 2023 from business owners and the communities they serve. She also tells Brian about new features Walmart Business is introducing in 2024 based on in-depth feedback from customers.
Podcast Highlights
Targeted Focus on Organizational Customers: Walmart Business launched as a strategic decision to focus on a significant customer segment – small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits. It was in recognition of the distinct needs of these customers compared to their traditional consumer base.
Walmart Marketplace: The Walmart marketplace expands product assortment for customers and presents opportunities for small businesses to become sellers.
Subscription and Easy Reorder Features: Walmart Business provides subscription options and an ‘easy reorder’ feature which simplifies the purchasing process for businesses and nonprofits.
Emphasis on Cost Efficiencies and Control: Walmart Business focuses on providing features that enable businesses to save time, simplify purchasing, stay in stock, and control their expenses.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation for Future Growth: Walmart Business plans to expand its assortment and develop tools for spend management. The aim is to offer more industry-specific products and enable businesses to manage their expenses better, ensuring compliance with their buying policies.
The post Walmart Business: Helping Business Owners and Empowering Communities appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_117_Patrick_Monahan.mp3
In this Episode, If you have an idea for a successful product or service and you go to Marquette University…Patrick Monahan is the guy you want to see! He runs the 707 Hub where student ideas become reality.
Podcast Highlights:
Student-Centered Innovation Hub: The 707 Hub at Marquette University is a student-centered, anti-disciplinary innovation space. It acts as a catalyst for students who want to turn their ideas into action, emphasizing the importance of ‘doing’ in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Evolution and Impact of the 707 Hub: Originating from a student proposal in 2015, the 707 Hub has evolved from a concept to a physical space for collaboration and innovation. It was initially funded by a $25,000 grant and has transitioned from a conference room to a more suitable location.
Diverse Participation and Programs: The Hub is utilized by students across various disciplines, not limited to business majors. It offers numerous programs like the Brewed Ideas Challenge, the Dorm Fund, and Silicon Valley experiences. These programs provide students with opportunities to develop and fund their ideas, as well as gain real-world exposure.
Success Stories and Social Entrepreneurship: The Hub has fostered various successful ventures, including socially conscious projects like Community Books and the Career Closet.
Looking Ahead: There is a focus on integrating the Hub’s activities into Marquette’s educational framework. A new course, “Methods in Ignatian Innovation,” is planned to offer academic credit for engaging in these experiential learning opportunities. The course will engage students in identifying and attempting to solve community social problems. It will emphasize real-world problem-solving and application of entrepreneurial skills.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_113_Paula_Chizek.mp3
In this Episode: Brian speaks with Paula Chizek, CMO, Benefits and Protection, at Principal Financial about their innovative approach to employee benefits. Paula provides deep insights on balancing cost and value, engaging employees through gamification, and preparing for future trends like succession planning in workplace benefits.
Podcast Highlights from Paula Chizek:
Importance of Customized Benefits: Understanding that every small business is unique is crucial. The benefits that employees want or need vary greatly, and a robust offering tailored to these needs is essential for employee retention and recruitment.
Evolving Landscape of Workplace Benefits: The macroeconomic environment and personal/business financial stresses have made it vital for small businesses to be equipped with the right tools and information. This includes providing financial security for both the business owners and their employees. Employee benefits and income protection solutions are key to financial wellness and stability.
Digital Tools for Benefit Management: Digital tools now offer just-in-time information, streamlining the benefits process and improving communication between employers and employees. This includes enrollment activities, educational experiences, and electronic handling of policies and payments.
Employee Utilization of Benefits: It’s crucial to ensure that employees understand and utilize the benefits available to them. Small businesses have the advantage of direct communication with employees to address any gaps or misunderstandings about the benefits offered.
Overcoming Obstacles in Benefit Implementation: Business owners often face obstacles such as fear of the unknown and inertia when implementing benefits programs. Overcoming these challenges involves partnering with knowledgeable entities and fostering an environment where employees can discuss and understand their benefits.
Creative Engagement with Benefits: One company gamified their benefits program to make it more engaging and informative. This approach, involving games like benefits bingo or jeopardy, helped employees learn about their benefits in a fun way, increasing awareness of available options like hospital indemnity and paid family medical leave.
Disconnect Between Employer Perception and Employee Desires: There is often a gap between what employers think their employees want and what the employees desire in terms of benefits.
Flexible Benefits for Diverse Needs: There is an increasing need for flexibility in benefits offerings, not just in terms of remote work but also including flexible hours and work-life fit. Employees of small and midsize businesses express a strong desire for benefits that align with their changing life circumstances.
Balancing Cost and Value of Benefits: Business owners must balance the cost of providing comprehensive benefits against the value they bring in terms of employee satisfaction and retention. Not offering certain benefits might lead to higher costs in the form of employee turnover and recruitment challenges.
Future Trends in Workplace Benefits: Looking ahead, succession planning, business valuation, and exit strategies are becoming more important. This trend reflects the need for benefits that ensure business continuity and security for employees, especially in family-owned businesses where the next generation may not want to continue the business.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_115_Kristin_Kaufman.mp3
In this Episode: Brian takes a deep dive into the concept of business and personal alignment with leadership consultant and author Kristin Kaufman. They discuss everything from the importance of listening to your intuition to the transformative power of random encounters.
Podcast Highlights:
The Importance of Personal and Business Alignment: Alignment is loving what you do, being good at it, and tying it to something greater than yourself. This type of alignment is crucial for both personal satisfaction and business success.
Recognizing Burnout and the Need for Change: Be aware of burnout and the need to reassess your career path or business strategies when they no longer align with your personal or professional goals.
Leadership Begins with Self: Effective leadership starts with the individual. Business owners and leaders must be in alignment with their roles and contributions. This self-alignment is fundamental to leading others effectively and fostering a positive organizational culture.
Cultural Fit and Internal Team Alignment: It’s important to cultivate a company culture that aligns with the business’s values and goals.
Aligning Corporate and Personal Values for Business Success: Kristin stresses the importance of aligning personal values with corporate goals. It is key to creating a fulfilling work environment and ensuring that both employees and the business are moving in the same direction with shared objectives.
Evolution and Relevance of Kaufman’s Books: Kristin’s trilogy of “Is This Seat Taken?” books reflects her journey and insights into personal and professional development. The themes, from random encounters to finding one’s path later in life, resonate with her business philosophy of alignment and adapting to life’s changes.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_114_Julie_Rollauer.mp3
In this Episode: Julie Rollauer is the co-founder and Chief Learning Officer at Antidote. She and Brian explore innovative strategies in learning and development today. They discuss transforming traditional training into engaging experiences.
Podcast Highlights:
Leveraging Past Experience for Entrepreneurial Success: Julie’s journey from Google to starting her own business illustrates how leveraging past corporate experience can be instrumental in entrepreneurial success. Her background in sales and learning development at a tech giant provided her with the skills and knowledge necessary to start her own venture in professional development.
Adapting to Market Needs and Trends: Recognizing what employees find engaging and integrating that into learning and development strategies can enhance the effectiveness of training programs.
Value of Networking and Mentorship: Julie emphasizes the importance of expanding your network while working on your business. Conversations with respected individuals and asking for introductions can open doors to new opportunities and insights.
Importance of Effective Learning and Development: Transforming mandatory corporate learning into something more engaging can significantly improve employee productivity and satisfaction.
Innovative Approaches to Business Challenges: Reimagining internal learning content in creative ways, like using edutainment, shows the importance of innovative thinking in solving business challenges.
Learning and Development as a Continuous Necessity: There is never a bad time to discuss learning and development. It should be an ongoing process, especially during significant organizational changes like leadership shifts or technological upgrades. Constant learning helps in adapting to changes and improving overall business operations.
Role of Managers in Retention and Culture: People often leave bad managers, not companies. Investing in managerial and leadership development is crucial for retaining employees and fostering a positive company culture.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_107_Britt_Michaelian.mp3 In this episode, Britt Michaelian is an artist, Reiki Master, and Quantum Healer. She also helps people and businesses heal themselves through the incredible powers of positive energy—which can be found in everything from the colors we choose, to the art we hang on our walls to the foods we eat. This is a […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_106_Tami_Cannizzaro.mp3 In This Episode – Tami Cannizzaro, CMO at Thryv, is on a mission to help business owners save valuable time each day by making them more efficient and productive. And it all starts with your phone. This is an excellent podcast for business owners who have no time and are always on the move. […]
The post Managing Your Business from Your Phone is Here! My Conversation with Tami Cannizzaro appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_105_Dave_Moore.mp3 In This Episode: Dave Moore, a Digital Advertising Entrepreneur & Executive who spent over 4 decades at the intersection of media, technology, and advertising, shares his best advice on being a successful leader today. Moore’s Law: Leadership Advice from Dave Moore: Leadership by Example: I often took the lead on projects and performed them […]
The post No Room for Quitters: Leadership Advice from Dave Moore appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_104_Katrina_Klier.mp3 In This Episode: Katrina Klier, Senior Managing Partner of Sage Strategy Group, oversaw 200+ acquisition integrations in her career from a go-to-market perspective, which involved aspects such as sales, marketing, and customer success. She is a top expert in helping companies create profitable growth at scale. If your business is looking to grow through partnerships, […]
The post Inorganic Growth for Entrepreneurs: My Conversation with Katrina Klier appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_101_Kevin_Warren.mp3 In This Episode: Kevin Warren, EVP and CMO at UPS, discusses UPS programs designed specifically for small businesses, his journey from Xerox to UPS, and his servant leadership style that focuses on trust, support, and facilitation. He also shares advice on how business owners can be unstoppable! Thoughts and Lessons from Kevin Warren: Kevin […]
The post Kevin Warren’s Advice to Business Owners: Be Unstoppable! appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_100_Claire_Darley.mp3 In This Episode: Claire Darley, SVP Worldwide Sales and Customer Support at Adobe talks with Brian about the future of digital work for small businesses. They discuss digital opportunities, the keys to productivity, and how to business owners need to empower their employees with tech tools and not get in their way. Advice and […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_99_Kurt_Wilkin.mp3 In This Episode: Kurt Wilkin is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and co-Founder of Hire Better. He shares sage advice on putting together the best team for your business, how to keep them happy, when it’s time for change, and much more. Podcast Highlights: Hire Better was started in 2006 during the early stages of […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_98_Bill_Imada.mp3 In This Episode: Bill Imada, Chairman and Chief Connectivity Officer at IW Group, runs one of the most successful and award-winning minority advertising, marketing, and communications agencies in the country. Listen to what drives Bill today and why going against his parents’ advice was something he had to do to succeed in business. Thoughts […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_97_Kara_Hoogensen.mp3
In This Episode – Kara Hoogensen, SVP of Workplace Benefits at The Principal Financial Group, returns to the podcast to discuss the latest conversations around small business and workplace benefits. There is an incredible opportunity for business owners to grow their business while retaining their best employees and turning the ordinary into extraordinary. The magic can be found inside this episode.
Key Takeaways on Workplace Benefits from Kara Hoogensen:
- When it comes to workplace benefits, many business owners don’t know where to start. They think benefits are for companies with a hundred employees or more. The reality is that we will work with companies that have two employees.
- On our website, we will provide you, free of charge, with a report that shows you the most common benefits in your area among companies with similar demographics. At the very least, you can see what your competition for talent is offering their employees.
- one in four Americans will find themselves unable to work for a period of time during their working lifetime.
- When it comes to workplace benefits, the best thing business owners can do is talk to their employees before making any decisions. And that’s where small businesses have a particular advantage because the owner will know every single employee.
- 75% of business owners say that having that benefits program puts them in a position where they’re better able to attract employees. It makes a difference, but the program must be used to be valued.
- Understanding your employees and what is important to them is the key to success in making sure you have the right benefits in place.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_96_Jorge_Gaviria.mp3
In This Episode:
In 2014, Jorge Gaviria started Masienda, the go-to masa brand for top chefs and in-the-know home cooks around the world. In January 2020, he was ready to move on from his role as CEO. Then, the world shut down and his company was flipped upside down. What happened next usually only happens in Hollywood movies. Jorge Gaviria took on the pandemic, and he WON!
Highlights from Jorge Gaviria:
- I discovered my passion for food while teaching and started working at a restaurant as a prep cook on weekends.
- I started Masienda, a business that focuses on producing Masa, the corn dough used in Latin American cuisine. I sourced corn from Mexico through an impact-based supply chain that worked with smallholder farmers.
- The early stages of Masienda focused on selling to chefs in the restaurant industry to finance the development of the supply chain.
- The name “Masienda” combines the words “Masa” (dough) and “Tienda” (store) in Spanish.
- By 2019, Masienda had a network of around 2,000 farmers and was helping chefs start their own masa programs.
- The pandemic forced us to pivot away from food service to adapt to the changing market conditions. We had just purchased a large inventory of corn before the pandemic hit, causing restaurants to shut down and uncertainty about border closures.
- In 2020, we sold out our out inventory as home cooks discovered their products during the pandemic. We pivoted to a direct-to-consumer model and experienced significant growth, surpassing the revenue we generated from the food service business.
- Technology and social media were crucial in optimizing our business and engaging with customers.
- We developed a tabletop mill product for food service, but the high costs of manufacturing led us to use our Capital One rewards to finance the initial production.
- We now use our Capital One rewards program to finance innovative projects and take meaningful risks without having a separate line of credit.
- Our future plans include scaling our supply chain, launching a value-added product in retail grocery stores starting with Whole Foods, and expanding distribution to reach more consumers.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_95_Rob_Levin.mp3
In This Episode – Rob Levin is the Chairman and Investor in Work Better Now, a company that provides remote workforce and virtual assistant services to help business owners run their operations more efficiently. His business is white hot today!
Highlights and Takeaways from Rob:
- It’s harder than ever to be a business owner because of the constant changes in customer habits, employee expectations, technology, and marketing.
- If a business owner is doing administrative work themselves, they are not doing the things they need to be doing to stay on top of the changing business landscape.
- Hiring a virtual assistant can free up time and energy for business owners to focus on more important tasks.
- Work Better Now’s model is disruptive and platform-based, connecting qualified workers with companies looking for their expertise.
- The pandemic was an inflection point that resolved some of the concerns people had about remote work and led to increased demand for virtual assistants.
- Clients started hiring multiple virtual assistants for different roles and tasks, leading the company to expand its offerings beyond executive assistance.
- Remote work is now ingrained in the way we do business, leading to increased acceptance and demand for outsourcing talent.
- Luck and timing played a critical role in the company’s success, as the pandemic led to increased demand for remote work and virtual assistants.
- Work Better Now is thinking about expanding into other areas beyond virtual assistance, such as AI and automation.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_95_Karen_Dillon.mp3
In This Episode – Karen Dillon and Rob Cross are co-authors of The Microstress Effect, how Little Things Pile Up and Create Big Problems, and What to Do about It. Their book was released this week. I spoke with Karen about microstresses—what are they, what triggers them, and how can we best deal with them.
Highlights from Karen:
- Microstresses are small moments of stress that happen from routine interactions at work or within the home.
- Microstresses come in dozens a day because they’re with the people we love and interact with regularly, making them a reality for each and every one of us.
- Microstress can put you on edge, making the macro problems seem even more catastrophic.
- Dealing with microstress involves nipping it in the bud. Deal with miscommunications as they come so the bad energy doesn’t spill over into the rest of your day.
- Building strong connections with other human beings can help offset the effects of microstress.
- Take an honest look at what kind of microstress you may be causing others and address it. This will enhance leadership skills and foster a better environment for everyone involved.
- Microstress is no small enemy. It can attack your body even in its basic functions, like digestion. Paying close attention to “the little things” can produce huge benefits to your well-being.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_93_Amy_Friedrich.mp3
In This Episode: Amy Friedrich, President of U.S. Insurance Solutions at Principal Financial Group, wants business owners to get back to the basics when it comes to running their companies. This is a terrific conversation about what it will take for small businesses to succeed in 2023 and beyond.
Key Takeaways from Amy * Within 30 to 60 days of when the pandemic hit, we were fielding the most questions ever about insurance coverage. Business owners wanted to know, “Do I have any protection at work? Do I have income protection? And, if the unthinkable happens to one of my employees, do I have group life insurance in place?” * Over the last 12 to 18 months, the resilience, purpose, and culture of small business owners helped keep their companies, and our economy, afloat. * The successful leaders today do the best job at matching their employees concerns about burnout, wellbeing, and culture, while still setting their companies up for great growth; it’s not an “either/or” situation for them. * The persistent lessons learned have a direct correlation between taking care of employees and understanding the purpose and commitment to the business. * If business owners can give their employees autonomy and flexibility, the payoff is employee engagement that is measurably higher resulting in better work product, better customer service, and a better result. * In our last Wellbeing Index, many business owners believed that a recession was still coming. However, they also said that if it happened, they wouldn’t get rid of benefits, change wages, or pull back on the flexibility they’ve given their employees.
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_91_Trish_Kalbis-Schmidt.mp3
In This Episode – How MOBI, My Own Business Institute, is helping tens of thousands of people all over the world start and manage their own businesses in 2023.
Highlights from Trish:
- After passing a mere 20 hour course, you are eligible to receive either a certificate of completion from Santa Clara University and or a digital badge that can be used on all your virtual portfolios.
- The course is completely free, entirely virtual and can be done all on your own schedule.
- Users can choose to review one of the 36 sessions and or topics that fit their needs or goals, in English or Spanish.
- MOBI is trying to bring education and opportunity to those who would not be able to get it themselves. Their typical student is looking to pursue their dream and make an impact, a positive impact for their family and or their community.
- MOBI offers a starting business course that aims to help those wanting to become small business owners build a strong foundation to create that house they want to live in.
The post Is MOBI the Secret Sauce to Starting a Business Today? appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_90_Ketan_Karkhanis.mp3
In This Episode:In this month’s segment on “Big Business Advice for Small Business Owners,” I spoke with
Ketan Karkhanis, EVP and GM of Sales Cloud at Salesforce. We had an excellent discussion on Generative AI
and how it will expedite automation in small businesses, especially in the areas of sales and customer service.
Highlights from Ketan:● Small Business owners don’t have unlimited resources. Generative AI can help them get more with
less, and utilize technology faster and more seamlessly.
● Generative AI puts the mold of clay on the table for you, and it has already created the outline of the
sculpture that you want to create.
● Generative AI is not a spaceship you need to build. Just like the GPS function on your smartphone, it is
user-friendly and is designed to do the work for you.
● AI isn’t magic, and it won’t make you successful alone. But, it will save you time and energy that you
can now put into other aspects of your business.
● Look for generative AI technology that has automation baked in. This will take away the intimidation
factor of the technology.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_12.mp3
In This Episode – In this month’s 5 in Five segment, Brian interviewed Rudi Leuschner, Associate Professor in the Department of Supply Chain Management at Rutgers Business School. I asked Rudi five questions about supply chain management and logistics.
Supply Chain Advice from Rudi:
- Supply chains are less disruptive than they have been over the last two years! The transportation issues we’ve seen have largely resolved themselves, however, disruptions can always happen whether they are weather related or labor issues or logjams at the ports.
- Global markets will welcome any stability or normalization they can get next year. There are still many financial and labor obstacles that exist today that will still be issues in 2023.
- Supply chain financing has been a critical topic for importers and exporters over the past two years. Small and midsize companies that dealt with inventory delays turned to supply chain financing to help ease cash flow concerns.
- Businesses today are more resilient because of the supply chain disruptions.
- Holding extra inventory, finding alternative suppliers, or arranging for alternate modes of transportation should be more of a proactive measure rather than a reactive one.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_82_Ginger_Siegel.mp3
In This EpisodeGinger Siegel is one of the best and busiest champions for small business owners. She shares tons of advice, ideas, and ways that Mastercard is helping business owners almost every day. Hear what she has to say and then sign up for Mastercard’s programs in 2023.
Highlights from Ginger Siegel:* MasterCard trust center was built to provide business owners access to cyber solutions, assessing cyber risk, and monitoring the dark web for hackers looking to attack small businesses * Through our Digital Doors, Mastercard has helped over 20,000 small businesses across 10 cities, and we’re expanding even beyond that. * We developed Strivers Initiative to help black female business owners digitize their companies. We provide them with tools like Digital Doors, help them to create a multi-channel approach to reaching customers, and help them with cash flow management. * Mastercard partnered with Hello Alice and First National Bank of Omaha to launch the Hello Alice Business Equitable Access Credit card, a credit building credit card. The program is designed to help owners with poor or thin credit histories by providing them with full card benefits while they improve their credit. * Mastercard uses its sponsorships in golf, the New York City Marathon, and Major League Baseball to recognize, celebrate, and support small businesses in our country. It is rewarding to see the faces on business owners who can’t believe that these big organizations care about their business and helping them.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_81_Val_Steed.mp3
In This Episode – Brian speaks with Val Steed, is Director of Accountants at Zoho Corporation. They have a lively conversation about cash flow, mistakes they’ve seen along the way, and what smart business owners do to avoid cash flow traps.
Cash Flow Advice from Val:
- Cash flow is the lifeblood of a business. If you start mismanaging cash flow, everything else will fall apart in your business.
- A small credit line can help with cash flow fluctuation during the year, but don’t allow a credit line to distract you from paying attention to cash flow.
- Zoho Books has a strong cash flow forecaster based on historical data. Zoho Analytics will take a lot of your historical data and analyze it for you.
- An old business client used to pay his bills the day he got them rather than wait 30-60 days, and he never really struggled with cash flow. He knew that, by paying his bills early, it forced him to be committed to properly managing his receivables and cash flow. He also knew other companies that got into trouble by letting their bills run past due and not having the cash to cover them.
- Business owners should hire someone to make collection calls for them and not get involved in the process.
- When you’ve done something good for your clients, ask them to tell their friends. Word-of-mouth referrals will keep your pipeline full.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_11.mp3 In this Episode: Brian and Barbara Weltman, a top small business tax expert, discuss end-of-the-year moves that business owners should consider—and what to wait on until 2023. Lots of great advice on this show! Barbara’s Moves to Make in 2022: During Covid, the IRS upped the write-offs opportunities for charitable giving, but they are […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_10.mp3 In this Episode In the October segment of Small Business Edge’s “5 in Five” podcast, Josh Lawton, Managing Partner at Squared Compass, answered questions on Cybersecurity and small business. Josh’s Facts and Tips on Cybersecurity 43% of all cyberattacks are directed towards small and medium size businesses. Of the SMB companies that are hacked, […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_09.mp3 Cash Flow Tips from Rieva: Cash flow could be a problem for business owners. There are many unknowns – consumer demand, inflation, rising interest rates, potential supply chain issues, and finding seasonal help are all potential issues—and BIG issues for small businesses that rely heavily on holidays sales to meet their annual goals. Look […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_08.mp3 In this episode, Brian asks Melissa Campanelli, Co-founder of Women in Retail Leadership Circle, five questions about the retail industry and the upcoming holiday season. Melissa’s Holiday Tips for Retailers: There are several studies that show consumer spending this holiday season won’t change considerably. But we cannot ignore the current economic crisis; it will […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_76_Brandon_Blell.mp3 In This Episode In this episode, Brian speaks with Brandon Blell, a Professional EOS Implementer (Entrepreneurial Operating System). Brandon helps business owners get what they want from their business, but wait until you hear the path she took to get to where she is today. It is part amazing, part inspiring, and part divine […]
The post Small Business Spotlight: Brandon Blell Shares Her Inspiring Story appeared first on The Small Business Edge Podcasts.
https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_07.mp3 In this Episode: Brian talks with Kathleen Sullivan Garman (Shipping), Rieva Lesonsky (Marketing), John Lawson (e-Commerce), and Ray Keating (Inflation/Interest Rates) to get their input on what the second half of 2022 will look like for business owners. At the end, Brian adds three key tips for achieving your goals at the end of […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_68_Kaaryn_Nailor.mp3 In this episode Brian speaks with Kaaryn Nailor, Assistant Dean, Community Partnerships & Managing Director, Columbia-Harlem Small Business Development Center. Kaaryn shares the wonderful and innovative ways her SBDC team is helping business owners in upper Manhattan successfully navigate 2022. There are LOTS of good nuggets of advice in this podcast so give it […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_75_Christine_Teylan.mp3 In This Episode Brian speaks with Christine Telyan, Co-Founder and CEO of UENI (pronounced You and I) a mission-driven organization that has helped build beautiful and functional websites for over 650,000 small businesses. Find out what makes UENI so special and how they can help your business compete today. Highlights from Christine: What […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_74_Kara_Hoogensen.mp3 In This Episode – Brian introduces a new segment to the Small Business Edge podcast. It’s called “Big Business Advice for Small Business Owners.” His guest for the first episode is Kara Hoogensen, SVP of Specialty Benefits at the Principal Financial Group. She shares a wealth of great information and stories to help business […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_06.mp3 In this Episode: Vijay Ramachandran is the VP of Go to Market Experience at Pitney Bowes. Brian and Vijay discuss market trends and insights that can lead to faster and more cost-effective ecommerce operations, and better customer experiences. Vijay also shared results from PB’s BOXpoll survey responses from their shipping customers. Highlights from Our […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_73_Ashland_Birth_Center.mp3 In this Episode In our monthly Small Business Spotlight segment, Brian talks to Savita Jones, Founder of the Ashland Birth Center and grand prize winner of the Barclays “Small Biz, Big Wins” contest. Savita shares her stories and lessons from being raised into the midwife world to starting a company that lets families enjoy […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_72_Kelly_Brozyna_revised_.mp3 In this Episode: In this episode, Brian speaks with Kelly Brozyna, the State Director of the New Jersey Small Business Development Centers. They discuss available opportunities for business owners in 2022, and how to take advantage of them. They also talk utilizing available resources, such as the NJSBDCs. Kelly’s Insights There are many funding […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_71_Chuck_Cooper.mp3 In this Episode: Brian talks to Chuck Cooper, Managing Member of Whitewater Consulting and author of Unprecedented: Building a Multi-generational Business on Trust, Respect, and the Valuing of People. They have a fascinating conversation about how the pandemic changed the role of employer and employee forever. Learn about the importance of reviewing your company […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_70_Jim_Barood.mp3 In this Episode: Brian and Jim Barrood discuss the state of cash flow among small business owners in 2022 and what they can expect in the 2nd half of the year. Supply Chain, Inflation, Rising Interest Rates, and other issues are keeping business owners up at night as they prepare for whatever may happen […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_05.mp3 In this Episode: Brian’s guest is Christopher Johnson, President Global Financial Services & Payments at Pitney Bowes. Christopher shared insights, statistics, and trends in both small business supply chain and cash flow. He is uniquely positioned to see the obstacles and opportunities that are on the horizon in the second half of 2022. Listen […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge-Episode_69_Leah_Farrell.mp3 In this Episode: Small Business Spotlight is a new monthly segment on the Small Business Edge podcast. In this episode, Brian speaks with Leah Farrell, the owner of b. minton, about starting her company in the middle of the pandemic. Leah shares her stories and lessons from getting burned out in corporate America to […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5-Episode_04.mp3 In this Episode: Brian and Hannah talk about her success as a franchisor and her burgeoning e-commerce business selling Giggling Pig art boxes. Hannah’s story is a remarkable one, and her future looks very bright, especially in the e-commerce space. Highlights from Our Discussion with Hannah: The secret to success is not one particular […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5_-_Episode_03.mp3 In this Episode: Brian discusses the state of black-owned companies with Jill Johnson, co-founder and CEO of IFEL, the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership, an independent, not-for-profit organization that supports inner city economic development through entrepreneurship. They discussed how the pandemic shined a light on issues faced by black entrepreneurs that started long before the […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_66_Shelby_Scarbrough.mp3 In this episode Serial entrepreneur and author Shelby Scarbrough discusses her three latest projects: Her book, “Civility Rules” which was released during the pandemic, her new company, The Global School of Entrepreneurship, and another book which came out this month titled “UNDAUNTED: The Extraordinary Life Story of the First Aviator to Attempt a Solo […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_65_John_Lawson.mp3 In this episode Brian speaks with John Lawson, an entrepreneur, author, and globally recognized e-commerce expert and speaker. They discuss the state of e-commerce in 2022 and how the pandemic rapidly accelerated the move to e-commerce by millions of business owners. Key Takeaways from John Lawson: The average small business has only 30 days […]
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https://media.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_64_Whitney_Johnson.mp3 In this Episode Brian talks to entrepreneur, keynote speaker, top global consultant, and author Whitney Johnson about her latest book, “Smart Growth: How to Grow Your People to Grow Your Company.” They discuss many of the obstacles facing business owners and their employees today, and how the savviest leaders are successfully navigating the “S-curves” […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5_-_Episode_02.mp3 In this Episode: In this episode, Brian gets the latest on navigating the supply chain obstacles in 2022 for small businesses from Kathleen Sullivan Garman, CEO of Sully Garman Associates and a top expert in supply chain and logistics. Five questions in five minutes. Shipping Advice from Kathleen Sullivan Garman: Small businesses must proactively […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/5-in-5_-_Episode_01.mp3 In this Episode In our first “5 in Five” episode, Andrew Sherman answers five questions about inflation, rising interest rates, and investing in your business. He also takes out his crystal ball to predict the financial outlook for business owners for the second half of 2022. Andrew’s Call to Actions: SMB financing is robust […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_64_Dave_Kerpen.mp3 In This Episode Dave Kerpen shares his tips, secrets, and advice on what makes leaders successful. “Set the strategy and vision, hire the right people in the right seats, and assure access to capital and resources to get the job done.” Find out what else Dave has to say about time management, delegation, and […]
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_60_Samsung.mp3
In this episode, Hamshy Raveendran, Head of Product GTM for Samsung America’s B2B Mobile group, talks to Brian about the future of mobile technology (e.g. phones, watches) and how business owners are using the devices to promote wellness, productivity, and working remotely.
Mobile Tech Tips from Hamshy Raveendran:
- Businesses need technology that provides the flexibility to work from anywhere; this is the new normal in our economy.
- Two-thirds of companies are considering permanent work from home policies, a measurable increase from a year and a half ago.
- Wellness, employee satisfaction, and employee health are all interlinked. Smart businesses are looking to leverage smartwatches as incentives for healthy living, better time management, and increased productivity (e.g., walking meetings).
- The new Samsung watches give employees insights to help manage their wellness. Some of the new features include a bioactive sensor that allows employees to monitor their blood pressure, detect an irregular heartbeat, measure their blood oxygen level, and calculate their body composition.
- The Samsung Insights Page has case studies, videos, and information about new products. The Samsung YouTube page has tips, tricks, neat videos that dive further into each of the new products and features.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_57_Sandy_Carter.mp3
In This Episode: Sandy Carter, VP of Worldwide Public Sector Partners and Programs at Amazon Web Services, discusses how cloud technology is accelerating the migration to a digital world. She also talks about the AWS Partner Network that connects business owners with companies in their industries to help them run better, more productive operations.
Tips from Sandy Carter:
- The cloud is helping businesses of all sizes save time and money.
- The AWS Partner Network helps our customers find the right partner to help them with their tasks and projects.
- Most startups don’t fail because they have a poor product or service. They fail because they don’t know how to take their product or service to market.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_58_Carla_Johnson.mp3
In This Episode: Carla Johnson, world-renowned keynote speaker and author of her latest book “RE:Think Innovation,” details the five step framework for innovation to inspire growth in business.
Thoughts on Innovation from Carla Johnson:
- Innovation is everybody’s job; it’s not just about the product or service that you sell.
- Innovation is the ability to consistently come up with new, great, and reliable ideas.
- One of the great things about innovation is that it allows a company to spark idea generation, problem solving, and critical thinking in all their employees.
- To have inspiration for great ideas on a consistent basis, that are new and reliable, we must be aware of the world around us, and take in inspiration wherever and whenever we can.
- A key characteristic of innovative people is that they are willing to own their own ideas, and they’re willing to fight for them.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_55_Grace_Moran.mp3
In This Episode: In a special Mother’s Day episode, Brian and his mother Grace talk about her career as an attorney, many of the glass ceilings she broke through, and advice she shared with the next generation of leaders.
Pearls of Wisdom from Grace Moran:
- We all must contribute something to the space we are taking up on this planet.
- If you’re going to build a foundation, do it in your early twenties, when you have the energy and maybe not any other responsibilities.
- Don’t pursue happiness. You pursue doing your part. You’re making your contributions. Happiness will follow, but happiness is not a goal.
- Things are temporary. The mountain top moments don’t last, but neither do the valleys.
- The only opinions I respect are from people I respect.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_54_Adi_Engel.mp3
In This Episode: Adi Engel, CMO of Vcita, urges business owners to save time and money by automating their appointments and payments while managing their customers.
Time Saving Tips from Adi Engel:
- One thing that our customers need is reoccurring engagement with their customers. We believe they should use a business management tool to manage these aspects of their business for them.
- There are things that you can automate that can take a lot off your plate in terms of those urgent and essential things.
- We offer clear tutorials and release new features in a way that’s instantly usable for our customers.
- If we ask business owners to spend time on administrative tasks with us, then we must be respectful of their time.
- Three tips for business owners: Take care of your business basics, take care of your payments, and keep your VIP clients close to you.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_53_David_Collado.mp3
In This Episode: David Collado, CEO of Happy Howies, shares his secrets of building his brand after the Great Recession, the importance of watching financials, hiring the right people, and how Happy Howies navigated the pandemic’s twists and turns. Great takeaways for any and every business owner.
Treats from David Collado:
- If we can grow our company, make dogs happy, and make an excellent product that customers keep coming back for, then we can make a difference.
- Our company culture starts with our core values: unity, devotion, integrity, daily improvements, and customer happiness.
- The biggest way that our culture helped us during the pandemic is that the entire team trusted that leadership would always do the right thing by them.
- I totally recommend business owners to enter contests, even if you think you will never win anything. If there is an opportunity to enter a contest and to promote your company, do it.
- Our employees had no reason to doubt that things would be any different during the pandemic, because we had been through challenging times, and you don’t work together for almost 10 years without coming across some obstacles.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_51_Paul_Paray.mp3
In This Episode: Paul Paray is an attorney who provides privacy and data breach counsel for firms after data incidents. In this episode, Brian & Paul discuss the latest cybersecurity threats, and ways that business owners can protect their companies in 2021.
Security Advice from Paul Paray:
- Sometimes the simplest safeguards may keep your business from getting hacked.
- The FCC cyber planner is a free resource for business owners. www.fcc.gov/cyberplanner
- Every business owner must know where their data is stored, who has access to it, and if any of the data is of a sensitive nature. Always think about the weakest link in your network.
- If you have free cybersecurity services on your computer, but have no other security protection, at the very least, turn the cybersecurity button on.
- Beware of online scams and emails claiming to be from the IRS or someone who wants to send you a COVID stimulus check. The IRS will never email you, but scammers are sending out billions of emails every single day.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_50_Meaghan_Sullivan.mp3
Meaghan Sullivan In this episode: Meaghan Sullivan, Head of Global Partner Marketing & SME at SAP, talks with Brian on International Women’s Day about the adverse impact of the pandemic on women in the workforce. She shares ideas on how to reverse the downturn and why it’s important to lead by example. There is also a surprise guest on the show
Suggestions from Meaghan Sullivan on Women Helping Women in the Workforce:
- Don’t be afraid to have uncomfortable conversations if you are struggling at work or at home. “It’s ok not to be ok.”
- Don’t dwell on what has gone wrong. Focus on how to move forward; what will it take to get back on track?
- Lead by example. It’s ok for a leader to be vulnerable and say “I’m struggling too,” but then be a leader and show how not to let your struggle define you.
- Psychological Safety – Let people come to work and be their “authentic” selves.
- Look for the silver linings in a crisis. It can make someone stop walking on the wrong path so that they can get on the right path.
- Take time to think about where you want to be a year from now, five years from now, and what it will take to achieve your goals? Always have a goal.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_47_Kathleen_Sullivan_Garman.mp3
In this episode:
Kathleen Sullivan Garman is back on the SBE Podcast to discuss what business owners need to do in 2021 to maintain their supply chains. She is the founder/CEO of Sully Garman & Associates and is recognized as a top expert in supply chain and logistics.
Supply Chain & Logistics Advice from Kathleen Sullivan Garman:
- In 2020, the pandemic created unprecedented disruption in shipping lanes.
- The “buy American” tag is a misnomer; much of our raw materials come from other countries.
- The unexpected volume of e-commerce orders swamped our delivery services.
- Always have a backup production source for your products.
- Keep inventory available to fill orders should people continue to be stuck at home.
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https://content.blubrry.com/smallbusinessedge/Small_Biz_Edge_-_Episode_49_Matt_Doherty.mp3
In this episode:
In his new book, “Rebound: From Pain to Passion”, Matt Doherty talks to Brian about winning the national championship with Michael Jordan, becoming head coach at University of North Carolina, being named Coach of the Year, and then forced to resign from his dream job just two years later. Matt shares the lessons he learned, the renewed faith he found, and how writing this book changed his life for the better
Key Assists from Matt Doherty:
- “Life is a series of decisions and dealing with consequences. The better decisions you make, the better your life will be.”
- “Setbacks are an opportunity for growth.”
- “Leadership is a learned behavior.”
- “It’s important to have ‘Truth Tellers’ in your life; they are the people who tell you what you need to hear instead of what they think you want to hear.
- Perspective is important during difficult times.
- The Six Knows of Leadership = S.T.E.V.I.T (Self, Team, Environment, Industry, Truth)
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