Small Business Survival Conversations: Recent Episodes
Anna Steinfest
It is hard to run your business and keep up with new trends and resources to help you build a profitable company. Each Tuesday, join Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer will share with you business tools, insights, and ideas. If you are a business owner or thinking about starting a new company or just want to hear some business advice this podcast is for you.
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Most people will tell you to stay positive. Push through. Keep going.
Nobody tells you what to actually do when everything falls apart.
This Monday morning on Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest delivers one of the most honest episodes she's ever recorded — not about how to avoid failure, but about what failure is actually trying to teach you, and how the entrepreneurs who build something lasting are rarely the ones who never hit bottom.
They're the ones who learned what to do when they got there.
If you've ever lost a client you couldn't afford to lose... launched something nobody bought... made a hire you regret... or opened an email that said "we've decided to go in another direction" — this episode will change the way you see the season you're in right now.
Inside this episode:
✅ Why one bad event becomes a story about your entire future — and how to stop it
✅ The house metaphor that reframes everything you think you lost
✅ The most dangerous lie business owners tell themselves after failure
✅ Why "I am a failure" and "my business failed at something" are not the same sentence
✅ How to study your failure like a business tool instead of carrying it like a wound
✅ The three-column exercise that shows you exactly what's still standing
✅ Why your comeback doesn't need to be dramatic — it just needs to move
Business Warriors, rock bottom is not where your story ends. It's the first solid ground you've stood on in a very long time.
🎧 New episodes every Monday morning — your weekly reset before the week begins.
👉 Subscribe so you never miss a Monday morning conversation.
💬 Drop a comment below: What's the one thing failure taught you that success never could?
Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Cold Open: This Episode Is for You
02:30 – When Failure Feels Permanent
05:00 – The House That Fell Down
07:30 – You Are Not Starting Over
09:30 – The Expensive Education of Entrepreneurship
11:30 – Failure and Identity: The Most Dangerous Confusion
13:30 – Turn Around and Look at the Wreckage
15:30 – What Is Still Standing?
17:30 – Don't Rebuild the Same House
19:30 – The Fear of the Next Failure
22:00 – The Next Small Move
24:00 – Someday You May Thank This Version of Yourself
25:30 – Your Action Step This Week
27:00 – A Thought to Leave You With
#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MondayMotivation #BusinessMindset #RockBottom #Resilience #SmallBusinessOwner #FailForward #BusinessGrowth #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations
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He Bought Useless Land Full of Rattlesnakes. Here's What He Built Instead.
What do you do when everything you've invested in looks like a complete failure?
Most people complain. Most people quit. Most people spend years talking about the terrible hand they were dealt.
This farmer did something nobody expected.
This Monday morning on Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest shares one of the most powerful entrepreneurial lessons she's ever discovered — hidden inside a 2,500-year-old principle and one of the strangest business stories you've ever heard. It's not about luck. It's not about capital. It's not about perfect timing.
It's about the one question that separates entrepreneurs who build from the ones who only ever talk about what went wrong.
If you've ever felt like your business circumstances were working against you — this episode will change the way you see every obstacle in front of you.
Inside this episode:
✅ The farmer who turned hundreds of rattlesnakes into a thriving business destination
✅ Why the best entrepreneurs don't eliminate problems — they mine them for opportunity
✅ The two-line letter that transformed a miserable man in the desert into a published author
✅ How Airbnb, Netflix, and Uber were all built from somebody's frustration
✅ Why complaining has a zero percent success rate — and what to do instead
✅ A simple 15-minute exercise to find the opportunity hiding in your biggest problem right now
Business Warriors, your greatest business opportunity may be disguised as the very problem you're trying hardest to avoid.
🎧 New episodes every Monday morning — your weekly reset before the week begins.
👉 Subscribe so you never miss a Monday morning conversation.
💬 Drop a comment below: What's the biggest "rattlesnake" in your business right now — and what could be hiding inside it?
Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Cold Open: What Are You Carrying Into This Week?
01:15 – The Farm Nobody Wanted
03:00 – When Everyone Else Sees a Problem
05:00 – The Desert and the Stars
07:15 – Every Business Has Rattlesnakes
08:45 – The Question That Changes Everything
10:00 – The Real Cost of Complaining
11:30 – What Are YOUR Rattlesnakes?
12:45 – Your Action Step This Week
13:30 – A Thought to Leave You With
#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MondayMotivation #BusinessMindset #BusinessOwner #Resilience #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations #BusinessGrowth #SuccessMindset
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Every business runs on trust — but trust isn't measured by your website, your logo, or your marketing. It's measured in hundreds of small, everyday moments. This week's Monday Morning Motivation tells the story of a farmer, a baker, and a pound of butter — and the surprising twist about who was really being weighed.
If you've ever wondered what your business would reveal if it were put on a scale today, this one's for you.
🎙️ This is Small Business Survival Conversations — real talk for entrepreneurs building something that lasts.
💛 Thought for the week: "Profits may build a business. But trust builds a legacy."
Subscribe for a new Monday Morning Motivation every week, and full-length conversations with small business owners navigating the real stuff — growth, setbacks, and everything in between.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Cold Open
1:30 – The Story
3:30 – The Mirror We Don't See
4:45 – Every Business Has a Scale
6:00 – The Small Things Are Never Small
7:15 – Your Customers Are Always Weighing You
8:15 – The Hardest Person to Fool
9:15 – What Goes Around... 10:00 – The Businesses That Last
11:00 – Your Action Step
11:45 – Thought for the Week
12:30 – Closing
SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMotivation #BusinessWarriors #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessOwner #Trust #Integrity #BusinessMindset #MondayMorningMotivation #CustomerTrust
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Every entrepreneur knows the temptation to wait — for more money, more confidence, more perfect timing. This week's Monday Morning Motivation starts with one line from Arnold Schwarzenegger: "You can't climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets." From there, it's a story about two farmers, the hidden cost of "someday," and why growth almost never happens inside your comfort zone.
If you've been staring at your ladder instead of climbing it, this one's for you.
🎙️ This is Small Business Survival Conversations — real talk for entrepreneurs building something that lasts.
💛 Thought for the week: "You can't climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets."
Subscribe for a new Monday Morning Motivation every week, and full-length conversations with small business owners navigating the real stuff — growth, setbacks, and everything in between.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Cold Open
1:15 – The Ladder
3:00 – The Illusion of "Someday"
5:15 – The Farmer's Lesson
7:00 – The Hidden Cost of Comfort
9:15 – Every Rung Looks Small 10:45 – Thought for the Week
11:30 – This Week's Action Step
12:15 – Closing
SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMotivation #BusinessWarriors #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessOwner #TakeAction #BusinessMindset #ArnoldSchwarzenegger #MondayMorningMotivation #GrowthMindset
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Every business owner has a crack in their story — the launch that flopped, the client who left, the year the numbers didn't work. This week's Monday Morning Motivation tells the story of kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, and what it teaches us about turning our business setbacks into our most valuable asset.
If you're in the middle of a hard season right now, this one's for you.
🎙️ This is Small Business Survival Conversations — real talk for entrepreneurs building something that lasts.
💛 Thought for the week: "Don't hide the crack. Fill it with gold."
Subscribe for a new Monday Morning Motivation every week, and full-length conversations with small business owners navigating the real stuff — growth, setbacks, and everything in between.
TIMESTAMPS
0:00 – Cold Open
0:45 – The Story of the Shogun's Bowl
3:30 – What Kintsugi Teaches Us About Business
7:00 – If You're in the Crack Right Now
9:30 – Thought for the Week
11:00 – This Week's Action Step
12:00 – Closing
HASHTAGS
SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMotivation #BusinessWarriors #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessOwner #Kintsugi #ResilientBusiness #BusinessMindset #FailureToSuccess #MondayMorningMotivation
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She had no money. No power. No influence with the farmer. Just a web — and she used it to save a life.
In this week's Monday Morning Motivation, we're going back to a barn most of us know from childhood — Charlotte's Web — but looking at it through a business owner's eyes. What starts as a story about a spider and a pig turns into a masterclass on branding, mentorship, reputation, and leadership.
If you're building a small business and some weeks it feels like no one notices your value... this episode is for you.
Here's what we cover:
✅ Why your business is only as strong as the story people tell about it
✅ Why your greatest competitive advantage might be one person who believes in you
✅ Why great reputations are built one thread at a time — not overnight
✅ Why the best leaders help other people shine instead of chasing the spotlight ✅ Why your legacy was never your business — it's the people you leave better than you found them
Grab your coffee, take a breath, and let's start this week the right way.
If this episode encourages you, share it with one entrepreneur who needs to hear it — and don't forget to subscribe for a new Monday Morning Motivation every week.
Chapters (paste directly into YouTube description)
00:00 Welcome — Monday Morning Motivation
00:30 The Story of Charlotte's Web
03:30 Lesson 1: Your Business Is Only as Strong as Its Story
05:00 Lesson 2: Someone Who Believes in You
06:30 Lesson 3: Reputations Are Built One Thread at a Time
07:45 Lesson 4: Great Leaders Help Others Shine
09:00 Lesson 5: Your Legacy Isn't Your Business 10:15 Two Questions to Ask Yourself This Week
11:15 This Week's Challenge
12:15 Closing Thoughts
Hashtags
SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations #MondayMorningMotivation #SmallBusinessTips #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #CharlottesWeb #BusinessMentorship #SmallBusinessOwner #BusinessMotivation #StartupAdvice
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What do a poor woodcutter from an ancient folktale and the founder of one of the world's most powerful companies have in common?
More than you think.
This Monday, Anna Steinfest takes you on a journey from the caves of Ali Baba to the global headquarters of Alibaba — and reveals the one truth that connects them both: the door only opens for those who keep searching.
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we revisit one of history's most beloved stories — but this time, we go deeper. Because every time you return to a great story, you are a different person than the last time you heard it. And your business is in a different place too.
🔓 What you'll discover in this episode:
✅ Why Ali Baba's real treasure wasn't gold — and what it means for your business this week
✅ The dangerous mistake Cassim made that destroys more businesses than any recession ever could
✅ The forgotten hero of the story — and why every great company has one (do you?)
✅ How Jack Ma was rejected over and over — including by KFC — before building a global empire
✅ The one question to ask yourself every Monday morning that will change how you see opportunity
✅ Why the biggest opportunities rarely announce themselves — and how to spot the ones hiding in plain sight
💡 The magic words aren't "Open Sesame."
The real magic is refusing to stop searching until the door finally opens.
This episode is for every entrepreneur who has ever stood in front of a closed door and wondered if it was meant for someone else.
It was meant for you.
You just have to keep showing up.
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:00 — Welcome, Business Warriors
01:15 — Why We Return to the Same Story
02:30 — Ali Baba: The Morning That Changed Everything
04:45 — What "Open Sesame" Really Means for Entrepreneurs
06:10 — Cassim's Warning: When Growth Becomes a Trap
07:45 — Morgiana: The Hero Nobody Remembers (But Every Business Needs)
09:20 — Jack Ma: From KFC Rejection to Global Empire
11:30 — The Monday Morning Question That Will Change Your Week
13:00 — Closing: Go Find Your Door
🎙️ Small Business Survival Conversations is a global podcast for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone brave enough to build something from nothing. New episodes every Monday.
📌 If this episode spoke to you, share it with one entrepreneur who needs to hear it today.
Because sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do for someone else is hand them the words that open their door.
🔔 Subscribe so you never miss a Monday Morning Motivation
👍 Like if this gave you something to think about this week
💬 Comment below: What door have YOU been walking past? Tell us — we read every single one.
SmallBusinessPodcast #MondayMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessOwner #AlibabaJackMa #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurLife #MondayMorningMotivation #SmallBusinessSurvival #BusinessPodcast #OpenSesame #StartupLife #BusinessSuccess #GlobalEntrepreneur #BusinessWisdom
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He wished that everything he touched would turn to gold. And for a moment, it felt like the greatest blessing any king could ask for — until he sat down for a meal and realized his gift had become a prison.
This week on Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest revisits the 2,500-year-old story of King Midas — but not the version you've heard before. This isn't a story about greed. It's a story about what happens after you get everything you wished for, and why so many entrepreneurs build the very thing that traps them.
If you've ever doubled your revenue and lost your health doing it... built a successful business and watched something else in your life quietly fall apart... or hit every financial goal you set and still felt empty inside — this episode is for you.
Inside this episode:
✅ Why "more" quietly becomes the enemy of purpose in business
✅ The difference between what's measurable and what's actually valuable
✅ Why your most loyal customers rarely stay for the price
✅ A simple two-column exercise to reset your perspective this week
✅ The one question every business owner needs to ask before chasing the next goal
Business Warriors, gold was never the treasure. This week, find out what is.
🎧 New episodes every Monday morning — your weekly reset before the week begins.
👉 Subscribe so you never miss a Monday morning conversation.
💬 Drop a comment: What's something in your business that money can't buy, but you'd protect over everything else?
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: A Story We've Told Before
00:50 – The Wish That Changed Everything
02:30 – The Dinner Table: When the Gift Became a Curse
04:15 – Value vs. Price: What Midas Got Wrong
06:00 – The Tragedy He Never Saw Coming
07:45 – The Curse Lifted: What He Finally Understood
09:00 – Your Action Step This Week
10:15 – A Thought to Leave You With
#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessMotivation #MondayMotivation #KingMidas #BusinessOwner #Mindset #BusinessLessons #Leadership #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations
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YouTube description
Burn the boats: the Sun Tzu strategy every entrepreneur needs to hear
In 1519, Hernán Cortés ordered his own ships destroyed on the shores of Mexico — removing any possibility of retreat for his men. Centuries earlier, Sun Tzu described a similar moment: a leader who climbs to a height, then kicks away the ladder behind him.
In this episode, Anna Steinfest unpacks what that ancient idea means for small business owners today — and why "someday" plans, backup options, and safety nets might be the very things holding your business back.
You'll learn the difference between a goal and a decision, why commitment sharpens focus and creativity, and how to identify the "ladder" you're still holding onto in your own business.
If you've been waiting to feel "ready" before taking the next step — this episode is your sign.
In this episode:
00:00
Welcome and the Sun Tzu quote
01:30
The story of Cortés burning the boats
03:00
The boats we keep in business — and why
05:00
The cost of keeping the ladder
07:00
The hidden power of full commitment
08:30
The Business Warrior challenge
10:00
Closing reflection
About Small Business Survival Conversations
Hosted by Anna Steinfest, this podcast brings weekly motivation, mindset shifts, and practical guidance to small business owners who refuse to quit. New episodes every Monday morning to help you start your week with focus and purpose.
Connect with Anna:
https://www.survivebizhub.org/
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Why do so many small business owners quit—not because they lack talent, passion, or vision, but because the mountain in front of them feels too big to climb?
In this inspiring Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest explores a powerful 2,000-year-old lesson from Confucius:
“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.”
Through a timeless story about perseverance, determination, and the power of small daily actions, you'll discover why success isn't built through giant leaps but through consistent progress over time.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your goals, frustrated by slow growth, or tempted to give up because results aren't coming fast enough, this episode is for you.
You'll learn:
✅ Why most business owners quit too soon
✅ The hidden danger of focusing only on the mountain
✅ How small, consistent actions create extraordinary results
✅ Why comparing your journey to others can hold you back
✅ One simple action you can take this week to build momentum
Remember: The most successful entrepreneurs aren't always the smartest or the most connected—they're the ones who keep moving one stone at a time.
Tune in and discover the ancient wisdom that can help you push through today's challenges and build tomorrow's success.
SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMorningMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessOwner #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess #MotivationMonday #GrowthMindset #Resilience #SmallBusiness #BusinessStrategy #SuccessHabits #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessCoach #Podcast #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations #Perseverance #KeepGoing #Confucius #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessMotivation #MindsetMatters
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What separates businesses that survive from those that truly grow?
In this powerful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest sits down with executive coach and leadership expert Ken Dombrowski to discuss the three core principles behind every successful business.
Together, they break down:
- Why mentorship can accelerate business growth
- The importance of follow-through and execution
- Why evaluating your business honestly is critical for long-term success
- The difference between ideas and action
- Common mistakes entrepreneurs make when trying to grow
- How successful business owners adapt, learn, and improve over time
This episode is packed with practical advice, leadership insights, and real-world business wisdom for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
If you’re a small business owner looking to grow stronger, lead better, and build a more sustainable business, this conversation is for you.
Featuring Ken Dombrowski
Founder & Executive Coach at Your Executive Life Coaching
https://www.yourexecutivelifecoaching.com/
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with another entrepreneur who could benefit from these lessons.
SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Mentorship #BusinessCoach #Execution #SmallBusinessOwner #SuccessMindset #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations
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Most businesses don’t fail because of competition.
They fail because business owners lose confidence in themselves before they ever reach their full potential.
In this powerful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest sits down with leadership coach and business strategist Ken Dombrowski from Your Executive Life Coaching to discuss one of the biggest hidden struggles entrepreneurs face: confidence.
Together, they dive into:
- Why so many talented women in business still doubt themselves
- How fear and self-doubt quietly hold businesses back
- The connection between confidence and leadership
- Imposter syndrome and the pressure of entrepreneurship
- Why action creates confidence — not the other way around
- Practical ways business owners can rebuild confidence and grow
This is an honest, real conversation for entrepreneurs who sometimes feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of themselves — even when they’re capable of incredible success.
Learn more about Ken Dombrowski and Your Executive Life Coaching:
https://www.yourexecutivelifecoaching.com/
If this episode resonates with you, share it with another entrepreneur who needs this reminder today.
SmallBusiness #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Confidence #BusinessGrowth #Mindset #WomenEntrepreneurs #SmallBusinessOwner #Motivation #BusinessPodcast #SelfConfidence #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations
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Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or burned out trying to grow your business? In this powerful Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna Steinfest shares an important reminder for entrepreneurs and small business owners: resting is not quitting.
We live in a world that glorifies nonstop hustle, constant grinding, and pushing harder every day — but what happens when exhaustion starts stealing your creativity, energy, health, and peace?
This episode is for every entrepreneur who feels tired, discouraged, emotionally drained, or ready to give up. Through real talk, encouragement, and powerful storytelling, Anna shares why learning to rest may be one of the most strategic things you can do for your business and your life.
Because sometimes the strongest thing you can do is pause… without quitting.
🎙 Hosted by Anna Steinfest
Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast
MondayMotivation #Entrepreneur #SmallBusiness #Burnout #BusinessMotivation #EntrepreneurLife #Leadership #SmallBusinessOwner #Mindset #Podcast #WomenInBusiness #MentalHealth #Motivation #BusinessGrowth #HustleCulture
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Most small business owners feel like they are fighting impossible battles.
Outnumbered.
Outspent.
Overwhelmed.
But what if the answer is not competing everywhere?
What if the answer is protecting the one place where your business is strongest?
In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest shares the powerful story of King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae — and the surprising business lessons every entrepreneur needs to hear.
This is not just a story about war.
It is a story about leadership, discipline, positioning, resilience, sacrifice, and surviving when the odds are against you.
If you are a business owner trying to stay focused during difficult seasons, this episode will remind you why small businesses still win.
Because small businesses do not win by being bigger.
They win by being smarter, faster, more human, and deeply connected to the people they serve.
One powerful reminder from this episode:
“You were not built for the open field. You were built for the pass.”
SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMorningMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessOwner #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #MotivationMonday #BusinessStrategy #Resilience #Mindset #SmallBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessCoach #Podcast #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations #GrowthMindset #Discipline #StartupLife #EntrepreneurLife
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Are you feeling behind in your business?
In this powerful Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we break down a historic moment from the Kentucky Derby—where Cherie DeVaux led Golden Tempo from last place to victory—and what it teaches every small business owner about timing, persistence, and winning when it matters most.
This episode is for entrepreneurs who:
- Feel like competitors are ahead
- Struggle with slow growth
- Are questioning their progress
You’ll learn why success in business isn’t about starting fast—it’s about making the right move at the right time.
💡 What you’ll walk away with:
- The “Final Stretch” mindset for business growth
- How to stop comparing and start preparing
- One simple action step to move your business forward this week
👉 Remember: You’re not behind. You’re just not at your moment yet.
🎧 Tune in, take action, and start your week with clarity and confidence.
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You are not behind. You are not broken. You are playing a different hand. This episode is a straight-talking, honest conversation about comparison, fairness, and what it actually takes to build something real when the odds aren't in your favor. One action step at the end that you can do before Friday.
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Start your week with clarity and intention in this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations. Host Anna Steinfest breaks down the powerful “5 Whys Method,” originally developed by Toyota founder Sakichi Toyoda, and shows small business owners how to uncover the real root causes behind stalled growth, inconsistent marketing, and feeling stuck. If you're a solopreneur or wearing all the hats in your business, this episode will help you move beyond surface-level problems and take control with a simple, actionable framework. Tune in to shift your mindset, gain clarity, and build a stronger, more sustainable business.
SmallBusinessTips #EntrepreneurMindset #SolopreneurLife #BusinessGrowth #MondayMotivation #StartupLife #5Whys #LeadershipDevelopment #ProductivityHacks #MindsetShift #BusinessStrategy #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #MarketingStrategy #FounderLife
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Nothing Is Working? Think Again. | Monday Morning Motivation
In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we explore the powerful story of the bamboo tree—a simple but life-changing reminder that real growth often happens beneath the surface.
If your business feels stuck, slow, or like nothing is working… this episode is for you.
Because what if the truth is…
👉 your business is growing—you just can’t see it yet?
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why slow progress is often the most important progress
- What’s really happening when your business feels stuck
- How to stay consistent when results aren’t visible
- The key mindset shift that separates those who succeed from those who quit
✨ Your action step: Identify one area of your business where you feel stuck and focus on strengthening the “roots” (your systems, relationships, or consistency) with one small action this week.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we dive into the classic story of The Golden Goose—and what it teaches us about business growth, consistency, and smart decision-making.
Too often, small business owners chase new ideas, push too hard, or try to scale too fast… and end up hurting the very thing that was working.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why consistency beats chasing new opportunities
- How to identify what’s already working in your business
- The biggest mistake entrepreneurs make when trying to grow
- A simple strategy to improve results without burning out
✨ Your action step this week: Identify your “golden goose” and improve it by just 10%.
If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or startup founder looking to grow sustainably, increase revenue, and build a stronger business foundation—this episode is for you.
#SmallBusinessTips
#EntrepreneurMindset
#BusinessGrowth
#MondayMotivation
#SmallBusinessOwners
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Feeling like a deal falling through is the end of the world? Discover the "Maybe So, Maybe Not" philosophy and learn why the strongest founders stay steady when things don't make sense.
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What does it really take to pivot as a small business owner when everything feels uncertain?
In this powerful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we sit down with Ken Dobrowski, founder of Your Executive Life Coaching, to unpack the mindset shifts required to not just survive—but grow—through challenges.
Ken shares his personal journey of pivoting in business and life, revealing what truly fuels his motivation every single day. But what makes this conversation unforgettable is the unexpected lesson drawn from Mike Tyson:
👉 Every time Tyson stepped into the ring, he wasn’t just fighting an opponent—he was fighting his own fear.
And as business owners… so are we.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
- How to pivot your business without losing momentum
- The daily mindset habits that keep high performers moving forward
- Why fear is not your enemy—but your signal to grow
- How to step into your own “ring” with confidence, even when you feel unprepared
Whether you're facing uncertainty, growth challenges, or simply need a reset, this episode will help you reframe fear into fuel.
🎯 Action Step:
This week, identify one area in your business where fear is holding you back—and take one bold action anyway.
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When challenges hit your business, how do you keep going? In this episode of the Small Business Survival Conversation Podcast, we share Monday morning motivation for small business owners through a powerful story about staying steady in difficult seasons. You’ll also hear practical action steps for the week and learn about our free workshops designed to help small businesses use AI for operations and marketing. Sign up at SurviveBuzHub.org/Business-Hub-Growth-Academy.
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What if the story of Jack and the Beanstalk was actually a blueprint for building and scaling a small business?
In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, we break down the classic fairytale and uncover powerful lessons about entrepreneurship, risk, growth, and outsmarting bigger competitors.
Most people remember Jack as a kid climbing a beanstalk. But entrepreneurs see something different: a bold decision, a risky trade, a climb into the unknown, and the courage to face giants.
If you’re a small business owner, startup founder, or entrepreneur trying to grow in a competitive world, this episode will challenge the way you think about risk, opportunity, and scaling your business.
Inside this episode you’ll learn:
• Why every entrepreneur must eventually trade the “cow” for the “magic beans”
• How to recognize outdated products, services, or strategies in your business
• What the beanstalk climb teaches us about rapid business growth
• Why small businesses beat big competitors through speed and agility
• How to identify your next big opportunity this week
Plus, we close with three practical action steps you can take immediately to move your business forward.
Whether you're building your first business or scaling your company to the next level, this motivational episode will help you think bigger, move faster, and climb higher.
Your beanstalk is waiting.
Now go build something amazing this week.
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Monday morning is for architects, not just dreamers. If you’ve been feeling like you're working harder but your business still feels "flimsy," this episode is for you. We’re converting a childhood story into a masterclass on Small Business Resilience.
Inside this episode:
- The Reality of the "Big Bad Wolf" in 2026.
- Why "Brick Season" feels exhausting (and why it's worth it).
- 3 Action Steps to take before Friday to secure your revenue.
Subscribe for more tactical AI and business strategy tutorials.
SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurMotivation #BusinessStrategy #Podcast #Resilience
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna shares a powerful fable about a young boy, three wishes, and the hidden test that most leaders never realize they are taking.
At first, the wishes seem simple: health, financial security, stability. But the third wish reveals something deeper — a shift from self-interest to service.
And that shift changes everything.
If you’re a small business owner focused on growth, revenue, and sustainability, this episode will challenge you to think beyond profit and consider the real foundation of long-term success: impact.
You’ll walk away with:
• A new perspective on leadership
• A powerful mindset shift for sustainable business growth
• Three actionable steps you can implement this week
Because building a business that serves others doesn’t weaken your success — it strengthens it.
Press play and discover the test that transforms business owners into legacy builders.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we explore The Tao of Success — the true path to building a sustainable and resilient small business.
But what does “Tao” mean? Simply put, it means “the way.” And the real way to success isn’t flashy marketing, overnight growth, or natural talent. It’s patience, persistence, and steady improvement.
Too many entrepreneurs believe they need to be the smartest, most connected, or most experienced person in the room. The truth? Talent will not replace persistence. Education alone will not guarantee success. What separates thriving small business owners from those who quit is their ability to keep going — calmly, consistently, and strategically — even when results feel slow.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
✔ What “The Tao of Success” really means for entrepreneurs
✔ Why patience is a competitive advantage in business
✔ The difference between persistence and stubbornness
✔ How consistency reshapes your business over time
✔ Three practical action steps you can take this week
If you’re a small business owner feeling stuck in the “messy middle,” this episode will remind you that steady growth beats fast burnout.
🎧 Tune in to Small Business Survival Conversations and discover why patience and persistence are the ultimate business strategy.
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What if your next big business breakthrough is hiding inside a small frustration?
In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we dive into the inspiring story of Sara Blakely, founder of Spanx, who started her billion-dollar company with just $5,000 and a simple idea — cutting the feet off her pantyhose to solve a common wardrobe problem.
Without investors, business school training, or industry connections, Sara built one of the most successful apparel brands in the world by focusing on solving a real problem, keeping her idea simple, and taking bold action.
In this episode, small business owners will learn:
✔ How everyday frustrations can become profitable business ideas
✔ Why you don’t need permission, funding, or perfect timing to start
✔ The power of simplicity in business growth
✔ How resourcefulness beats resources
✔ Three practical action steps you can apply this week
If you’re an entrepreneur, startup founder, or small business owner looking for motivation, clarity, and practical strategy, this episode will challenge you to stop waiting — and start building.
🎙 Tune in and discover how small ideas, executed boldly, can create extraordinary success.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, host Anna Steinfest shares a powerful business lesson inspired by the Grimm fairy tale The Straw, the Coal, and the Bean.
This story may sound simple, but it delivers a critical message for small business owners: surviving a crisis is not the same as being safe from the next one.
Many entrepreneurs narrowly escape tough seasons—cash flow scares, bad clients, burnout, or unexpected setbacks—only to rush forward without reflecting, adjusting, or building stronger systems. This episode breaks down the fairy tale in clear, simple terms and translates it into real-world lessons about resilience, decision-making, and sustainable business growth.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why survival alone is not success in business
- The danger of moving too fast after a crisis
- How overextending yourself can burn out your business
- What the “bean” teaches us about learning from near-failure
- Three practical action steps you can take this week to protect and strengthen your business
If you’re a small business owner who has “barely made it through” a tough moment and wants to build something more stable and intentional moving forward, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen now to Small Business Survival Conversations and turn survival into smarter growth.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, host Anna Steinfest shares a powerful lesson inspired by the folktale The Bamboo Turtle — a story that reminds small business owners why strength, patience, and sustainability matter more than speed.
In a world that celebrates rapid growth and overnight success, many entrepreneurs feel pressure to scale faster than their systems, cash flow, or energy can support. This episode challenges that mindset and shows why businesses built slowly and intentionally are often the ones that survive economic storms, market shifts, and burnout.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why fast growth can weaken your business foundation
- How to build a business designed to last, not just look impressive
- What the Bamboo Turtle teaches us about resilience and endurance
- How to stop comparing your pace to others
- Three practical action steps you can take this week to strengthen your business
If you’re a small business owner who wants to grow without burning out — and build something that can weather any storm — this episode is for you.
🎧 Tune in to Small Business Survival Conversations and start building a business that lasts.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, host Anna Steinfest shares a powerful business lesson from the classic Grimm fairy tale The Hedgehog and the Hare—a story that proves speed alone doesn’t guarantee success.
For small business owners, the pressure to move faster, grow quicker, and keep up with competitors can lead to burnout, poor decisions, and wasted energy. This episode challenges the hustle-first mindset and shows why strategy, planning, and leverage matter more than raw speed.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why chasing speed can hurt your business
- How ego and comparison derail smart decision-making
- What the hedgehog teaches us about strategy, systems, and leverage
- How to stop competing on someone else’s terms
- Three practical action steps you can apply this week to work smarter, not harder
If you’re a small business owner who feels like others are racing ahead, this episode is your reminder that winning doesn’t require being the fastest—it requires being intentional.
🎧 Listen now and start building a business that lasts, not one that burns out.
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In today’s Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we’re talking about one of the biggest silent killers of momentum for small business owners: comparison.
Somewhere right now, someone else’s business looks bigger, faster, and more successful. But chasing someone else’s path is a distraction that costs you focus, confidence, and progress.
This episode is a mindset reset for entrepreneurs who feel behind, discouraged, or tempted to measure their success against others. You’ll learn why comparison is wasted energy, how to define success on your terms, and how to stay focused on the work that actually moves your business forward.
🎯 Plus, we end with three practical action steps and a downloadable worksheet to help you apply this lesson immediately.
The goal isn’t to beat someone else’s life. The goal is to build yours.
🎧 Listen now and download the worksheet to start your week with clarity and confidence.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, host Anna Steinfest uses one of nature’s most intelligent creatures—the octopus—to deliver powerful lessons for small business owners navigating uncertainty.
The octopus survives without a shell, without bones, and without a safety net—by relying on intelligence, adaptability, and strategy. Just like small business owners.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why adaptability is a competitive advantage for small businesses
- How to use your environment, challenges, and constraints as strategic tools
- What the octopus teaches us about flexibility, resilience, and decision-making
- Three clear, actionable steps you can apply this week to strengthen your business
If you’re a business owner trying to survive, scale, and stay agile in a constantly changing market, this episode will challenge you to stop fighting the environment—and start using it.
🎯 Listen now and learn how to think, adapt, and win like an octopus.
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The first Monday of the new year is the most important planning moment for small business owners—and most skip it.
In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation on the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, host Anna Steinfest uses a powerful lesson from Alice in Wonderland to explain why clarity matters more than hustle—and why you don’t need a traditional business plan to succeed.
Instead, you’ll learn how to create a simple one-page business roadmap to define your goals, eliminate distractions, and make better decisions all year long.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why working hard without direction leads to burnout
- How to avoid chasing distractions disguised as opportunities
- What to include in a one-page business roadmap
- How to set clear priorities for the year ahead
- Three actionable steps you can take this week
If you’re a small business owner who wants focus, momentum, and clarity in the new year—this episode is for you.
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As the year comes to a close, many small business owners find themselves wishing for more — more time, more clients, more growth. But real progress doesn’t come from wishing. It comes from focus, discipline, and intentional action.
In this special Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, Anna Steinfest shares a powerful business lesson inspired by the classic Stonecutter folktale, helping entrepreneurs rethink power, progress, and what it truly takes to grow in the new year.
This episode is designed for small business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs who want to enter the new year with clarity instead of chaos — and with a plan instead of pressure.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why chasing the “next thing” often stalls business growth
- How to close the year with focus and confidence
- The difference between wishing for change and building it
- Three practical action steps to reset your business before the new year
If you’re ready to stop repeating the same cycles and start building momentum that actually lasts, this episode will help you step into the new year with purpose.
🎯 Because the next level of your business doesn’t start on January 1 — it starts with the choices you make today.
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In this raw and honest episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest is joined by two of her longtime friends and fellow entrepreneurs — Clinton Smith and Quasan Shaw. Together, they’ve walked through the ups and downs of building businesses, and today, they’re sharing the hard truths small business owners need to hear as we head into 2026.
This isn’t theory — it’s real talk from three people who’ve supported each other through setbacks, growth, and reinvention. And now, they’re here to share what they’ve learned with you.
You’ll hear insights on:
- What to stop doing immediately in your business
- How to set smarter, burnout-proof goals
- The mindset shifts that keep you moving through hard seasons
- Practical ways to cut costs, pivot fast, and prepare for uncertainty
Whether you’re just trying to survive or looking to scale in 2026, this episode is your playbook — rooted in truth, trust, and a shared mission to help small business owners succeed.
No fluff. Just real advice from real entrepreneurs who’ve been where you are.
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest breaks down the real reason many small business owners feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck—lack of focused energy. Inspired by the “Power of Focus” principles, this episode reveals how distractions quietly drain progress and how even small shifts in focus can lead to massive momentum.
Anna explains why multitasking kills results, how your mental energy ratio determines your success, and why your business doesn’t need more hours—just more clarity. She closes with three actionable steps every entrepreneur can implement this week to gain control, eliminate energy leaks, and drive forward movement.
If you’re tired of busy days with little progress, this episode will help you reclaim clarity, strengthen discipline, and build unstoppable momentum in your business.
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This week, host Anna Steinfest brings a powerful business lesson from the classic Grimm Brothers tale Hansel and Gretel. In a world where small business owners are often underestimated—by competitors, customers, or even themselves—this story reveals a truth every entrepreneur needs to hear:
Your abilities aren’t defined by age, pedigree, or experience.
They’re defined by resourcefulness, courage, and creativity.
Hansel and Gretel survived not because they were strong, wealthy, or experienced…
but because they were clever, strategic, and bold enough to act.
In this episode, Anna breaks down:
🔥 Why you must stop underestimating yourself
🔥 How resourcefulness beats resources in small business
🔥 How to think creatively when you feel stuck or “in the woods”
🔥 The danger of letting others’ assumptions shape your confidence
Plus, Anna gives you three actionable steps to help you reclaim your confidence, lean into your strengths, and step boldly into your week.
If you’ve ever felt too small, too new, or too inexperienced to compete, this message will remind you of the truth:
You are far more capable than others—and even you—think.
🎙️ Tune in and let this episode ignite your confidence and entrepreneurial grit.
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, Anna Steinfest shares a powerful story that every entrepreneur needs to hear — the tale of a humble hot dog seller who let someone else’s fear destroy his thriving business.
This episode dives into why good judgment matters more than education, expert opinions, or economic forecasts — and why small business owners must learn to trust their own data, their own customers, and their own instincts.
You’ll learn:
🔥 How fear-based decisions quietly shrink your business
🔥 Why “experts” can unintentionally derail your progress
🔥 The difference between information and judgment
🔥 The 3 action steps you can take this week to make stronger, more confident decisions
If you’ve ever second-guessed yourself or pulled back because of what someone else said, this episode will give you the clarity and courage to think independently — and lead your business with confidence.
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest revisits the timeless story of Little Red Riding Hood to explore how distractions can derail small business success.
Through this fable-inspired reflection, Anna shares three powerful focus-building strategies every small business owner can use to eliminate distractions, boost productivity, and stay aligned with their goals.
Don’t let the wolves of distraction steal your momentum — learn how to stay laser-focused on the path to growth and survival.
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest draws wisdom from Aesop’s timeless fable The Eagle and the Arrow to help small business owners recognize the hidden ways they self-sabotage.
Learn how distractions, broken promises, and burnout can quietly weaken your business from within — and discover three actionable strategies to protect your focus, integrity, and mindset so you can keep soaring toward success.
MondayMotivation #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #MindsetMatters #Resilience #Focus #Integrity #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessSurvival
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Feeling overwhelmed by social media? You’re not alone. In this quick Monday motivation episode, we break down 5 practical ways small business owners can stay visible online — without chasing trends or burning out.
From starting conversations to building your email list, these tips are designed to help solopreneurs and small teams focus on what actually works.
Want the full playbook?
👉 Read the blog at: www.survivebizhub.org
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest explores how small business owners can turn everyday attention into unstoppable customer loyalty.
Using the story of a once-beloved coffee shop that lost its personal touch, Anna reveals why people don’t leave businesses — they leave indifference. Learn three practical, proven strategies to deepen relationships, strengthen trust, and build a loyal customer base that lasts far beyond transactions.
MondayMotivation #SmallBusiness #CustomerLoyalty #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #CustomerExperience #Retention #BrandTrust #SmallBusinessSurvival #CustomerService #AnnaSteinfest
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares a timeless leadership lesson from Dale Carnegie’s classic How to Win Friends and Influence People. Learn how empathy, humility, and emotional intelligence can transform how you lead your team, connect with customers, and handle conflict.
Discover how to replace arguments with influence, criticism with collaboration, and ego with effectiveness — because in business, the smartest person in the room is often the one who listens first.
SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #DaleCarnegie #BusinessGrowth #MondayMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #CommunicationSkills #SmallBusinessOwner
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares a powerful business lesson from Aesop’s fable The Bat, the Birds, and the Beasts. The tale reminds entrepreneurs that playing it safe, trying to please everyone, or avoiding commitment can leave you isolated and ineffective.
Anna explains why clarity, conviction, and consistency are essential for small-business success—and gives you practical steps to define your purpose, commit to your direction, and lead with confidence.
Sign up for our free Small Business Alliance : https://www.survivebizhub.org/
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares why the biggest threat to small business growth isn’t failure—it’s inaction. Drawing from the lesson “The Risk of Doing Nothing,” Anna explains why taking imperfect action leads to progress, while waiting for the perfect time leads to stagnation.
This episode will motivate you to step out of hesitation, take bold action, and create momentum in your business starting today.
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation on the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, host Anna Steinfest shares a powerful lesson every entrepreneur needs to hear: stop blaming the obstacles and start focusing on becoming unstoppable.
Drawing from the story of a wrestling coach’s advice—“Beat the Ref”—Anna explains why small business owners can’t waste time complaining about unfair circumstances, tough competition, or external challenges beyond their control. Instead, success comes from becoming so good, so resilient, and so prepared that no setback, bad break, or “ref’s call” can keep you from winning.
You’ll walk away with practical steps to:
- Identify the “ref” in your business holding you back.
- Shift focus from what you can’t control to what you can.
- Build systems and habits that make your business undeniable.
If you’re ready to rise above the excuses and play to win, this episode will give you the mindset and motivation to make this week count.
SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Resilience #Leadership #MindsetMatters #EntrepreneurLife #MotivationMonday #ScalingBusiness #BeatTheRef
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest unpacks Jack Welch’s powerful philosophy of stretch goals—ambitious targets designed to push you beyond what feels possible. Playing it safe keeps your business small, but aiming high—even if you fall short—unlocks creativity, grit, and growth you never thought you had.
Anna breaks down three practical ways small business owners can apply stretch goals this week:
- Reach for the unreachable instead of settling for mediocrity.
- Forget the decimal points and stop obsessing over perfection.
- Don’t punish falling short—celebrate progress and keep climbing.
If you’re ready to stop playing small and start building momentum, this episode will inspire you to stretch beyond limits and surprise yourself with what you can achieve.
SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #StretchGoals #MondayMotivation #ScalingBusiness #EntrepreneurMindset
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest reveals why credibility is the ultimate currency for small business owners—and how quickly it can be lost. Using the timeless story of The Boy Who Cried Wolf, Anna connects the lesson to today’s entrepreneurs who are fighting to survive and scale. Learn the four pillars of credibility—reliability, transparency, strategic under-promising, and consistent excellence—and how to apply them in your business this week.
Because when the real wolf shows up, will your village come running?
SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Credibility #Trust #Leadership #ScalingBusiness #BusinessMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #MondayMotivation
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Are you a small business owner feeling intimidated by big corporations? This episode is for you. Inspired by a powerful quote from Mark Cuban, host Anna Steinfest reveals why being a small, nimble business isn't a weakness—it's your biggest competitive advantage.
Discover the "elephant metaphor" and learn why the very size and resources of big companies make them slow and unable to adapt. Anna shares real-world examples and three actionable challenges to help you leverage your speed, agility, and ability to innovate.
Stop trying to compete on their terms. It's time to embrace your size, play offense, and learn to run circles around the competition.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why big corporations are like "elephants" and what that means for your business.
- The three unique advantages you have over large competitors: speed, agility, and innovation.
- A powerful Mark Cuban quote that will change your perspective on competition.
- Three practical challenges to help you take action and move faster this week.
Tune in to learn how to stop just surviving and start thriving in the business jungle.
Subscribe to the Small Business Survival Conversations podcast for your weekly dose of motivation and practical strategies!
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Ever wonder what it really takes to succeed as a small business owner? It's not about being born with a special talent. It's about combining two crucial mindsets.
In this episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, host Anna Steinfest dives into the powerful idea of being both a pirate and a Navy SEAL. Discover how to unleash your creative, rule-breaking side while building the disciplined systems and habits that ensure your business thrives.
Whether you're struggling to launch a new idea or keep up with daily tasks, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can use this week to balance bold vision with relentless execution.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why the "born entrepreneur" is a myth.
- How to harness the bold, innovative spirit of a pirate.
- The disciplined, system-driven mindset of a Navy SEAL.
- Three practical steps you can take today to apply this powerful concept to your business.
Tune in to learn how to stop just surviving and start truly thriving.
SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessTips #TimeManagement #Productivity #SmallBiz #Startup #BusinessOwner #EntrepreneurMindset #Leadership #Motivation #Success #BusinessGrowth #PodcastForEntrepreneurs
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Feeling like your business is running you instead of the other way around? You're not alone. In this power-packed Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna Steinfest tackles the #1 struggle every small business owner faces: time management.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
- The "Big Three" method that successful entrepreneurs use to win every day
- Why your to-do list is sabotaging your productivity (and what to do instead)
- How to master the art of saying "no" without burning bridges
- Simple strategies to tame digital distractions that steal your focus
- The 2-minute rule that prevents small tasks from becoming overwhelming mountains
- A weekly time audit system that reveals where your hours really go
This Week's Monday Challenge: Choose ONE time management strategy and commit to it for the entire week. Anna explains exactly how to implement it and track your progress.
Perfect for: Small business owners, entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and anyone who feels overwhelmed by their never-ending to-do list.
Key Takeaway: You have the same 24 hours as every successful business owner. The difference is how intentionally you use them.
Stop letting your schedule control you. It's time to take back your time and run your business with purpose and focus.
Small Business Survival Conversations with Anna Steinfest - Your weekly dose of practical strategies, real talk, and motivation for small business success.
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Got a question or topic suggestion? Email at Anna@SurviveBizHub.org
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Tired of setting big goals that turn into endless preparation cycles? This Monday, Anna Steinfest delivers a game-changing tool that transforms overwhelming dreams into step-by-step action plans: Backward Planning.
In this power-packed 10-minute episode, you'll discover why most entrepreneurs get stuck in "getting ready to get ready" mode—and how to flip the script by starting with your destination and working backward to today.
What You'll Learn:
✅ Why forward planning leads to wandering (and how backward planning creates laser focus)
✅ The 5-step backward planning method that turns any goal into a concrete roadmap
✅ A real-world case study: How one entrepreneur used backward planning to launch a $49,500/month subscription service
✅ Your Monday Challenge: The 20-minute exercise that will transform your biggest goal into today's action item
Perfect For:
- Small business owners stuck in planning paralysis
- Entrepreneurs with big dreams but unclear next steps
- Anyone ready to stop preparing and start achieving
Key Quote:
"The difference between dreamers and achievers isn't talent, luck, or intelligence. It's the willingness to turn dreams into dates, and dates into daily actions."
This Week's Challenge:
Pick ONE major business goal, create your backward plan, and take the first action step before bedtime tonight.
No theory. No fluff. Just a proven tool you can use today.
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest tackles one of the biggest traps in entrepreneurship: the lure of the shortcut. Through the compelling story of a sparrow who traded her ability to fly for easy meals, Anna reveals why the "easy way" often becomes the most expensive path of all.
Whether it's automating before understanding, copying competitors instead of building authentically, or outsourcing before mastering the fundamentals, small business owners constantly face the temptation to skip the hard work. But what are we really trading away?
Anna shares her own vulnerable moments of choosing shortcuts over substance, and introduces the "garden metaphor" that will change how you think about sustainable growth. Plus, you'll get a three-part challenge to identify where you've been taking shortcuts and commit to doing the deep, transformational work that builds lasting success.
Perfect for entrepreneurs who are tired of quick fixes and ready to build something real. Because there are no shortcuts to anywhere worth going.
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Ever feel like you're constantly being sold the "easy button" for business success? This week's Monday Morning Motivation cuts through the noise with an ancient story that every small business owner needs to hear.
Join us as we explore the timeless tale of a wise king who challenged his advisers to distill all human wisdom into just one sentence – and discover why their final answer holds the key to small business survival in today's market.
In this episode, you'll discover:
- The ancient story that reveals the #1 truth about business success
- Why "something for nothing" thinking is killing your competition
- How to spot and stop the freeloaders draining your business
- The investment mindset that separates thriving businesses from struggling ones
- Real examples from successful restaurant owners, contractors, and online retailers
Your 3-Step Action Plan:
- The Investment Audit: Where to honestly assess your time and money
- The "No" Practice: How to stop giving away free lunches this week
- The One Real Investment: Making a commitment that actually builds your business
Perfect for:
- Small business owners tired of chasing shortcuts
- Entrepreneurs ready to embrace the real work of building success
- Anyone who needs a Monday morning reality check and motivation boost
Stop hoping for magic bullets and start building something real. Because when you understand that there's no free lunch, you also understand that the rewards you earn are truly yours to keep.
Episode Length: 10 minutes of pure motivation and practical wisdom
Part of the Small Business Survival Conversation podcast series
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In this inspiring Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna Steinfest shares the story of the lark—a bird that sings before sunrise—and how it mirrors the small business journey. If you’ve ever felt like you're building in silence, working without recognition, or waiting for the world to catch up to your vision, this episode is for you. Discover the mindset shift that empowers entrepreneurs to lead with courage, show up early, and sing their own song—even in the dark.
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In business, the biggest risk isn't making a mistake—it's moving too slowly. In this power-packed episode of Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest shares why the ability to take quick, decisive action might be your most underrated business skill.
Drawing inspiration from legendary CEO Jack Welch's biggest career regret—not moving fast enough—Anna reveals how hesitation costs small business owners more opportunities than failure ever will. From missed partnerships to delayed product launches, she breaks down the real cost of overthinking and analysis paralysis.
You'll discover the three pillars of quick action: living with productive urgency, making decisions with 80% of the information, and working with focused intention. Anna shares practical strategies for overcoming hesitation and provides a 48-hour challenge to help you break through your biggest barrier.
Perfect for entrepreneurs, solo founders, and small business owners who are ready to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start creating momentum. This 10-minute episode will shift your mindset from "when I'm ready" to "ready or not, here I go."
Key Topics: Decision-making, business momentum, entrepreneurship, overcoming hesitation, quick action strategies
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Episode Description:
Ready to transform how you approach every business decision and relationship? In this powerful Monday Morning Motivation episode, host Anna Steinfest introduces a game-changing mindset shift that can revolutionize your small business and personal life.
What You'll Learn:
- The difference between being the "buyer" vs. the "seller" in your business relationships
- Why saying "no" to misaligned opportunities creates space for better ones
- How to become selective without missing out on growth
- A real-world transformation story of an entrepreneur who doubled down on this approach
- Three practical steps to implement the "buyer mindset" this week
Perfect for:
- Solo entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed by every opportunity
- Women-owned businesses struggling with boundaries
- Small business owners who say "yes" to everything
- Anyone ready to build their business on their own terms
Key Takeaway: When you approach every opportunity as the buyer—choosing what aligns with your vision, values, and goals—you stop chasing and start attracting the right clients, projects, and relationships.
Join the Small Business Survival Conversations community and discover how to build a business that works for you, not against you.
Tags: #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #MondayMotivation #BusinessMindset #SoloPreneur #WomenInBusiness #BusinessStrategy #SelfEmployed #BusinessOwner #Productivity
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Feeling overwhelmed by your endless to-do list? Questioning if you're cut out for the entrepreneur life? You're not alone—and you're definitely not failing.
In this Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna Steinfest busts the biggest myth about resilience: that some people are just "naturally" resilient while others aren't. Spoiler alert: resilience isn't something you're born with—it's something you build, one choice at a time.
What You'll Learn:
- Why thinking of resilience as a fixed trait is holding you back
- A simple 3-step framework to strengthen your "resilience muscle" this week
- How to pivot with grace when your plans fall apart (because they will!)
- The one priority technique that cuts through overwhelm instantly
Real Stories, Real Results: Anna shares her own vulnerable story about a workshop launch that completely flopped—and how she turned that failure into her biggest success. Plus, hear how boutique owner Sofia transformed a holiday disaster into her most profitable season ever.
Your Weekly Action Plan:
- Create a personal mantra that actually works
- Protect 30 minutes for what matters most
- Connect with another entrepreneur (community beats isolation every time)
Perfect for solo entrepreneurs, women-owned business owners, and anyone who's ever wondered if they have what it takes to keep going when things get tough.
Episode Length: 15 minutes
Best Listened To: Monday morning with your coffee, or anytime you need a resilience boost
Remember: Every entrepreneur you admire has felt exactly how you're feeling right now. What sets them apart isn't the absence of struggle—it's the presence of persistence.
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Feeling stretched thin in your small business? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do it all. In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, Anna dives into the transformational concept from Dan Sullivan’s book Who Not How. Discover why asking “Who can help me?” instead of “How do I do this?” can be the breakthrough you need.
Anna shares personal stories, real-life examples, and actionable steps to help you delegate with confidence, reclaim your time, and focus on what truly matters. Whether you're a solopreneur or growing a team, this mindset shift could change everything.
Tune in and start your week with clarity, motivation, and a smarter way to grow.
👉 Listen now and learn how to build the right team around your vision.
SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMotivation #WhoNotHow #DanSullivan #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBizTips #DelegateToGrow #BusinessLeadership #SoloPreneurSuccess #PodcastForEntrepreneurs #AnnaSteinfest
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What happens when a doctor trades her stethoscope for a welding torch? Meet Maria Perle, founder of Spark Ops Metalworks, whose journey from medical professional to certified woman and minority-owned business leader proves the American Dream is alive and sparking.
Under Maria's leadership, Spark Ops has positioned itself to excel across Entertainment, Aerospace, Automotive, Defense, and Construction industries, delivering precise, high-quality solutions for major clients including the Super Bowl, Fox Sports, Tesla, and John Deere. With comprehensive capabilities spanning welding, forming, metal stamping, laser cutting, and design, Maria's team consistently exceeds industry standards and client expectations.
As a participant in the prestigious Green Bay Packers Mentor-Protégé Program, Maria reveals how mentorship has been crucial to scaling her WOSB and MBE-certified business. Her survival philosophy? "Focus on the outcome and the impact you're making—that will get you through the toughest moments." She also opens up about building an incredible internal culture that values every team member's contribution.
If you're facing challenges in your small business or considering a major career pivot, Maria's story will inspire you to keep pushing forward.
Learn more about Maria and Spark Ops Metalworks: https://www.sparkopsmetalworks.com/about-us
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Feeling stuck on a business challenge? Convinced there's only one "right" way to reach your goals? In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares a simple but powerful mindset shift that could revolutionize how you solve problems and make decisions in your business.
What You'll Learn:
- Why successful entrepreneurs think in options, not absolutes
- A 10-minute exercise to unlock creative solutions to any business challenge
- The Time-Money-Impact filter that helps you choose the best path forward
- A real success story of how one bakery owner increased weekday sales by 40% without discounting
Featured Story: Discover how Sarah, a boutique bakery owner, broke free from default thinking and found multiple ways to boost slow weekday sales—from baking classes to loyalty programs—proving that there's always more than one path to success.
Your Action Plan: Get a specific, step-by-step weekly assignment that will help you identify multiple solutions to your current business challenge and take concrete action by next Monday.
Perfect for entrepreneurs who feel overwhelmed by tough decisions or stuck on seemingly impossible problems. Sometimes the breakthrough you need is just a brainstorming session away.
Episode Length: 10 minutes
Best For: Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking for fresh approaches to business challenges
Show Notes & Resources:
- Download the Time-Money-Impact evaluation worksheet
- Join our small business community for more creative problem-solving discussions
- Share your "more than one way" success stories with #MondayMotivation
If this episode sparked new thinking, share it with another entrepreneur who needs a reminder that they're not stuck—they just haven't explored all their options yet.
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In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we interview Scotty Smith, founder of Synergy Sports Performance in Green Bay, WI.
With over 20 years in strength and conditioning—and a career that began with the Green Bay Packers—Scotty shares the story behind launching Synergy, the challenges he faced as a small business owner, and the mindset that keeps him focused and growing.
We dive into how growing up on a farm in Iowa shaped his strong work ethic, problem-solving approach, and entrepreneurial spirit. That foundation of grit and discipline continues to influence how he leads his team, supports his athletes, and shows up in business.
We also talk about:
- Starting a business from passion and perseverance
- Pushing through moments of doubt and uncertainty
- The importance of community and relationships
- Building a strong team culture
- What does survival really mean as a small business owner
Whether you're in fitness, food, or finance, Scotty’s honest insights on leadership and resilience will inspire you.
🔗 Learn more about Scotty’s work: www.synergysportsperformance.com
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest explores one of the most powerful shifts small business owners can make in how they network: transitioning from a hunter to a farmer mindset.
Inspired by insights from Networking Like a Pro by Dr. Ivan Misner, Anna shares how the most successful entrepreneurs build long-lasting, referral-rich relationships—not by chasing quick wins, but by planting seeds of trust and consistency.
You’ll learn:
- Why traditional networking often falls flat
- How to build relationships that yield steady business over time
- Three actionable steps you can use to shift into a “farming” mindset
- Real-life examples of how small business owners create value without being pushy
If you’re ready to grow your business through genuine connections, not cold pitches, this episode is for you.
Let’s ditch the pressure and focus on relationships that actually last. 🌱
#MondayMorningMotivation #SmallBusinessTips #NetworkingLikeAPro #BusinessNetworking #ReferralMarketing #RelationshipMarketing #GrowYourBusiness #SmallBizGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #FarmDontHunt
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In this powerful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we kick off our new Thursday Real Talk series with Ron Franklin—an executive leader, mentor, and trusted advisor to small business owners.
Ron brings years of experience mentoring entrepreneurs and shares honest, no-fluff insights about what it really takes to survive and thrive as a small business. From mindset shifts to leadership growth, his message is clear and encouraging: asking for help is not a sign of failure—it’s a strategic move that can transform your business.
Tune in to hear Ron’s advice on:
- Avoiding common mindset traps
- Building a strong business foundation without a big team
- What successful small businesses do differently
- Why resilience is built through connection, not isolation
Whether you’re in startup mode or trying to grow through challenges, this episode offers the kind of real-world wisdom every entrepreneur needs to hear.
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest shares a powerful story from history to highlight a critical lesson for small business owners: if you don’t measure your performance, you’re operating in the dark.
Using the example of a tragic 1707 naval disaster—where poor navigation led to the loss of four warships and 2,000 lives—Anna draws a parallel to the modern entrepreneur who steers a business without tracking key metrics.
Whether it’s your financial performance, sales conversion, or customer retention, what you measure determines what you can improve.
🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why not tracking your numbers can stall (or sink) your business
- The 3 most important areas every small business owner should measure
- How to start tracking your progress without fancy tools
- A sneak peek at Anna’s new interview series featuring real business owners sharing how they survived and thrived
If you're ready to replace guesswork with clarity, this episode will give you the mindset and action steps to move forward with confidence.
Hashtags:
#SmallBusinessTips #EntrepreneurMindset #MeasureWhatMatters #BusinessPerformance #MondayMotivation #KnowYourNumbers #AnnaSteinfest #SmallBizGrowth #Leadership #BalancedScorecard
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In this Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna Steinfest shares a powerful mindset shift for small business owners who want to stop chasing clients and start leading sales conversations with clarity and confidence.
Drawing from real-world sales insights, Anna explains why most sales interactions fail before they even begin—because the buyer sets the rules by default. From stalling tactics to vague “think it overs,” prospects often stay in control while small business owners give away value and wait endlessly for follow-ups.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why buyers resist giving real answers—and how to turn it around
- The 3-step formula for setting boundaries and leading with confidence
- How to get permission to ask questions and guide the decision-making process
- Why “Let me think about it” often means “no”—and what to say instead
If you're tired of leaving meetings without clarity, chasing ghosted leads, or giving away your expertise for free, this episode will give you the tools to shift the dynamic—and close with integrity and control.
🎯 Whether you're new to sales or just ready to level up, this episode will help you stop “hoping” for a sale and start leading the conversation like a pro.
SmallBusinessTips #SalesStrategy #EntrepreneurMindset #MondayMotivation #LeadWithConfidence #BusinessGrowth #SalesCallSuccess #ThinkItOver #StopChasingClients #AnnaSteinfest
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, small business expert Anna Steinfest dives into a common trap that holds back entrepreneurs and business owners—perfectionism. If you've ever delayed launching your product, held back on marketing your services, or told yourself, "I'll start when it's perfect," this is the episode you need to hear.
Anna shares her personal story of overcoming rejection and self-doubt during her time in banking, making hundreds of cold calls despite having an accent—and how that experience taught her the true value of taking consistent action.
Learn why progress beats perfection, how to stop overthinking and start executing, and the three practical steps you can take this week to move your business forward.
Whether you're building a brand, scaling a business, or just getting started, this episode will help you shift your mindset and unlock your momentum.
🎧 Listen now to break free from perfection paralysis and start making real progress.
#SmallBusinessTips #EntrepreneurMindset #ProgressNotPerfection #MondayMotivation #TakeAction #WomenInBusiness #StartupLife #ImperfectAction #BusinessGrowth #MindsetMatters #OvercomePerfectionism #BusinessPodcast #AnnaSteinfest #MotivationForEntrepreneurs
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest shares a personal story about one of the toughest—and most valuable—lessons she learned early in her career: how to roll with rejection.
From cold calls in the banking industry where people hung up the moment she said “hello,” to building a thriving business empire, Anna reveals how reframing rejection as a game—and a necessary part of the journey—became one of her greatest advantages.
In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why rejection isn’t about you—it’s about timing and persistence
✅ How to make rejection neutral—and even fun
✅ Practical steps to build resilience and keep moving forward
✅ Why every “no” brings you one step closer to success
If you've ever let a “no” shake your confidence or slow your momentum, this episode will show you how to flip the script—and turn rejection into fuel for your future success.
🎯 Tune in now and take the fear out of hearing "no"—your next breakthrough might be just a few calls away!
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #OvercomingRejection #EntrepreneurMindset #SalesMotivation #BusinessResilience #KeepGoing
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest delivers a powerful message every small business owner needs to hear: success doesn’t come to the fastest—it comes to the most persistent.
If you're putting in the work but not seeing results yet, this episode is for you. Anna breaks down the hidden value of staying consistent, even when progress feels invisible, and shares why persistence—not talent or luck—is what separates those who succeed from those who give up too soon.
🔥 You’ll learn:
- Why progress is often invisible before the breakthrough
- How quitting resets momentum—and how to prevent it
- Real-life stories of small business owners who stayed the course
- Three simple, actionable ways to build discipline and stay focused
Whether you’re in a season of slow growth or waiting for your breakthrough, this episode will reignite your drive and help you recommit to your goals—with clarity and confidence.
🎧 Tune in and remind yourself: the key to success is simply not giving up.
Hashtags:
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #StayConsistent #PersistencePays #KeepGoing #BusinessGrowth #DisciplineWins
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest explores a powerful truth every small business owner must understand: customers don’t buy products—they buy solutions to their problems.
Drawing inspiration from human psychology and real-world examples, Anna breaks down the relationship between unmet needs, emotional discomfort, and purchasing behavior. You’ll learn why identifying your customer’s emotional pain points—and positioning your product or service as the solution—is the key to unlocking lasting business success.
💡 In this episode, you’ll discover:
- Why all sales are rooted in emotional needs
- How to reframe your messaging to reflect customer problems
- Real-life examples of businesses that grew by focusing on solutions
- 3 practical steps to apply this mindset to your business this week
- A simple reflection prompt to deepen your clarity and connection
Whether you're selling soap, strategy, or software—this episode will help you shift from “pushing a product” to meeting a need that your customer actually cares about.
🎧 Tune in now and transform the way you talk about—and sell—what you do.
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #CustomerNeeds #SellSolutions #BusinessGrowth #MarketingStrategy #ProblemSolving
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest tackles one of the silent killers of business momentum: cynicism.
Cynicism whispers that your efforts aren’t worth it, that someone else is doing it better, or that it’s all been done before. And whether it comes from pessimistic friends, harsh critics, or your own inner voice—it can poison your progress if you let it.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
✅ What cynicism really is and how to recognize it
✅ How it subtly damages your business and confidence
✅ 3 practical steps to silence the cynic and replace doubt with action
If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt or found yourself stuck in overanalysis and negativity, this episode will help you reset your mindset, protect your passion, and move forward with purpose.
🎧 Listen now and choose faith over fear, action over avoidance, and growth over perfection.
Hashtags:
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #OvercomingDoubt #StayPositive #CynicismKills #BelieveInYourself
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into one of the most critical habits every small business owner must master: self-discipline.
Unlike traditional jobs, business owners don’t have a boss looking over their shoulder—and that freedom can lead to procrastination, distraction, and stalled progress.
In this episode, Anna explains why discipline matters more than motivation when running a business, and how consistent, focused action is the true driver of growth. You’ll learn:
✅ How procrastination costs your business real opportunities
✅ Why motivation is unreliable—and what to use instead
✅ 3 simple action steps to build a daily discipline habit that actually works
Whether you're struggling with follow-through or just need a fresh start, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and take control of your time and success.
🎧 Tune in now and start building the habits that lead to long-term results!
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #SelfDiscipline #EntrepreneurMindset #ProductivityTips #TakeAction #BusinessGrowth
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest tackles one of the biggest obstacles in business—waiting for the perfect moment.
Too many entrepreneurs delay taking action, thinking they need more time, more knowledge, or better conditions before they start. But the truth is, success comes from action, not overthinking.
In this episode, Anna shares why waiting is the biggest risk you can take in business and how clarity, confidence, and growth come from starting now, learning from mistakes, and building momentum.
You’ll also hear a real-life example of a business owner who finally stopped waiting—and how that one decision transformed her success.
🚀 Tune in now and take the first step toward your business breakthrough!
Hashtags: #MondayMotivation #TakeAction #SmallBusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessGrowth #NoMoreExcuses #StartNow
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest reveals how running a business is just like cooking a delicate dish—it’s all about finding the right balance.
🔥 Too much heat (rushing growth)? You risk burnout and poor quality.
🕒 Too little heat (moving too slowly)? You may miss valuable opportunities.
👨🍳 A disorganized kitchen (lack of structure)? Leads to chaos and inefficiency.
Just like a great chef follows a recipe, business owners must learn to pace their growth, maintain a clear routine, and delegate effectively to ensure long-term success.
Tune in to discover how to apply the right amount of “heat” to your business, stay organized, and build a strong team—so you can cook up success without burning out!
🎧 Listen now and start perfecting the recipe for your business growth!
Hashtags: #MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #Leadership #StayOrganized #BusinessStrategy
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares one of the most powerful yet overlooked success strategies in business—consistency.
Success doesn’t happen overnight. Just like water shapes rock over time, small, daily actions create momentum, build trust, and separate you from the competition. But too many business owners give up too soon, expecting instant results.
In this episode, Anna breaks down why consistency is the key to long-term success and gives you three actionable ways to apply it in your business. Learn how showing up daily, staying committed, and taking small but steady steps will help you attract more customers, grow your brand, and build a thriving business.
🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward lasting success!
Hashtags: #MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #StayConsistent #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessGrowth #SuccessTips #EntrepreneurLife
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into one of the most overlooked yet powerful business strategies: simplicity.
Jack Welch, former CEO of GE, believed that keeping things simple was key to success, and Albert Einstein famously said, “Everything should be made as simple as possible, but no simpler.” Yet, many small business owners overcomplicate their messaging, thinking it makes them look more credible. The truth? Confused customers never buy.
In this episode, Anna breaks down how simplifying your business communication can help you attract more customers, build trust, and increase sales. Learn three actionable strategies to simplify your message, remove unnecessary complexity, and make buying easier—so your business can thrive.
🎧 Tune in now and discover how clarity leads to success!
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #KeepItSimple #SalesStrategy #BusinessGrowth #MarketingTips #EntrepreneurMindset
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into one of the most important questions every small business owner must answer: Why are you doing what you’re doing?
Without a strong why, challenges feel overwhelming, burnout sets in, and success becomes harder to achieve. But when you’re clear on your purpose, it fuels your passion, keeps you resilient, and helps you push through obstacles.
Through the powerful story of The Lumberjack and the Dull Axe, Anna explains why working harder isn’t enough—you need to sharpen your axe by reconnecting with your purpose. Learn three actionable steps to identify your why, define the impact you want to make, and use it as motivation during tough times.
Tune in to discover how finding your why can help you survive and thrive as a small business owner.
🎧 Listen now and take control of your success!
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #FindYourWhy #EntrepreneurMindset #StayMotivated #GoalSetting #BusinessGrowth
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares the powerful story of The Butterfly and the Cocoon to explore how struggles shape us into stronger, more capable individuals and business owners.
Challenges are a natural part of entrepreneurship, but instead of avoiding them, we can embrace them as opportunities to grow, innovate, and build resilience. Anna dives into why struggles are essential for success, how they teach resilience and confidence, and how small business owners can turn obstacles into stepping stones.
Tune in to discover actionable steps to reframe your challenges, seek support, and take consistent actions to thrive in your business journey.
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship #GrowthMindset #OvercomingChallenges #Resilience #BusinessGrowth
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest reveals the secret to transforming your sales process: asking the right questions. Selling isn’t about pushing a product or service—it’s about connecting with your customers on an emotional level and guiding them to make decisions that feel right for them.
Discover how to use emotionally engaging questions to uncover your customers’ needs, motives, and challenges and how this approach builds trust, deepens connections, and leads to more successful sales. Anna shares practical examples of discovery, impact, and obstacle questions that you can start using immediately.
If you’re ready to shift from “selling” to “guiding” and elevate your sales strategy, this episode is for you!
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #SalesTips #CustomerConnection #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #SellingWithPurpose
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In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into the fascinating story of Huy Fong’s Sriracha, the iconic “rooster sauce,” and the lessons small business owners can learn from its rise—and fall.
Discover how missteps in supply chain management, branding, and business relationships allowed competitors like Tabasco-maker McIlhenny to seize the market. Anna breaks down three critical takeaways for small business owners, including the importance of diversifying suppliers, protecting your brand, and building strategic partnerships.
Tune in to learn how to avoid these pitfalls and position your business for sustainable growth and success in a competitive market.
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessLessons #Entrepreneurship #BrandingTips #SupplyChainManagement #GrowthMindset
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In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest sits down with a seasoned economic developer and former entrepreneur who knows the challenges and rewards of running a small business. With a Master's degree in Urban Planning and Real Estate Development from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and years of experience in economic development, our guest shares valuable insights on how small businesses can leverage local resources, navigate common challenges, and position themselves for long-term success.
Learn about the programs and opportunities available to small businesses in De Pere, WI, and beyond, and get actionable advice to help your business thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical strategies tailored for small business owners.
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In this New Year’s edition of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares the inspiring story of The Jar and the Rocks to highlight the importance of focusing on what truly matters in your business and life.
As small business owners, the start of the year is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and set meaningful resolutions that align with your goals. Anna offers three actionable steps to help you identify your “big rocks,” break them into manageable tasks, and stay on track throughout the year.
Tune in to learn how to create resolutions that stick and make this year your most successful yet!
#MondayMotivation #NewYearsResolutions #SmallBusinessSuccess #GoalSetting #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #NewYearNewGoals
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In this special holiday edition of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest explores the power of generosity and how it can transform your small business. Inspired by the timeless story of The Giving Tree, Anna shares how embracing the spirit of giving can strengthen customer relationships, build team loyalty, and create a meaningful impact in your community.
Discover three actionable ways to bring generosity into your business this season—and throughout the year. Whether it’s offering extra value to your customers, showing appreciation to your team, or giving back to your community, this episode will inspire you to give authentically and grow your business in the process.
Tune in and find out how the gift of giving can lead to lasting success and fulfillment!
MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #HolidaySeason #TheGiftOfGiving #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #KindnessMatters
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into the secret to sales success: understanding your customer’s “why.” Through the relatable story of a man and his shovel, Anna illustrates why focusing on what you’re selling isn’t enough—what truly matters is understanding the deeper need your product or service fulfills.
Discover three actionable strategies to connect with your customers’ motivations, speak to their emotions, and show how your offering solves their problems. Whether you’re struggling with sales or looking to refine your approach, this episode will help you align your efforts with what your customers truly want.
Tune in and learn how to sell with purpose and connect with your audience on a deeper level! #MondayMotivation #SalesTips #SmallBusinessSuccess #CustomerNeeds #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #SellingWithPurpose
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In this week’s episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares Aesop’s timeless fable, The Ant and the Grasshopper, to highlight a powerful lesson for small business owners: the importance of preparation and planning.
Drawing inspiration from the hardworking Ant, Anna explores how entrepreneurs can navigate the cycles of abundance and challenge by building financial reserves, investing in systems, and staying focused on long-term goals. Whether you’re in a season of growth or facing tough times, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you prepare for success in every season of your business.
Tune in and discover how to work smarter, not just harder, and build a business that thrives no matter the circumstances.
MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessPlanning #Entrepreneurship #WorkSmart #BusinessGrowth #LongTermSuccess
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In this week’s episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares an inspiring story about a cracked pot and the unexpected beauty that comes from imperfections. Drawing on this fable, Anna explores how small business owners can turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Learn three actionable strategies to reframe challenges, focus on what you can control, and build a strong support system to navigate tough times. Whether you’re facing a difficult client, supply chain issues, or a missed opportunity, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to turn setbacks into stepping stones for success.
Tune in to discover how resilience and perspective can transform your business journey—and help you find the flowers along your path.
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #Resilience #GrowthMindset #EntrepreneurTips #BusinessGrowth #SetbacksToSuccess
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This special Thanksgiving episode of Monday Morning Motivation is all about gratitude and how it can transform your business and mindset. Host Anna Steinfest shares the inspiring story of a farmer and a wise traveler to illustrate the power of thankfulness in overcoming challenges and fostering growth.
Discover how practicing gratitude can strengthen relationships, fuel resilience, and inspire innovation in your entrepreneurial journey. Anna also provides a simple gratitude exercise to help you reflect, connect, and grow during this holiday week. Tune in to learn why gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice—it’s a game-changer for small business success.
#MondayMotivation #ThanksgivingWeek #SmallBusinessSuccess #Gratitude #PositiveMindset #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into the powerful 5 Whys method, developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota. This simple yet effective problem-solving technique has been used for decades to uncover root causes, improve quality, and reduce costs in businesses of all sizes.
Anna shares the fascinating history of the 5 Whys, its continued relevance today, and how small business owners can apply it to solve recurring issues in their operations. Through a relatable example, she demonstrates how asking “why” five times can help you move past surface-level symptoms and find lasting solutions.
If you’re ready to solve problems smarter, not harder, this episode is a must-listen!
#SmallBusinessSuccess #ProblemSolving #5WhysMethod #BusinessTips #LeanMethodology #MondayMotivation #Entrepreneurship
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares a timeless fable about a donkey, a tiger, and the King of the Jungle to reveal an important lesson for business owners: sometimes the smartest move is to walk away. Anna dives into the importance of protecting your energy and focus by avoiding pointless arguments, especially with people more interested in being “right” than in finding the truth.
Learn how to identify “donkey traps” in your business life, choose your battles wisely, and surround yourself with constructive voices that support your growth. Tune in to discover why preserving your peace and focusing on what truly matters are essential strategies for long-term success.
#MondayMotivation #BusinessMindset #SmallBusinessTips #KnowWhenToWalkAway #ProtectYourEnergy #EntrepreneurSuccess
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In this special episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest sits down with Clinton E. Smith, author of The Complete Man: Triumphing Adversity and Achieving Success Without Losing Yourself. Clinton shares powerful insights on how to balance business success with personal fulfillment, resilience, and well-being—especially relevant for small business owners who often face intense pressures and high demands. Together, they discuss practical strategies for overcoming adversity, cultivating a resilient mindset, and building sustainable habits that support both personal and professional growth.
Listen in to learn how to become “complete” in your pursuit of success without sacrificing what matters most. For more resources and information, visit Clinton’s website at https://clintonesmith.com/.
#SmallBusinessSuccess #TheCompleteMan #Resilience #WorkLifeBalance #EntrepreneurMotivation #MondayMotivation
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest explores a fundamental challenge many small business owners face: why knowing what to do isn’t always enough to spark action. Drawing on the powerful concepts of motivation, belief, and responsibility, Anna shares insights into why we often don’t take steps we know are essential to our success. With three practical steps, this episode will help you reconnect with your “why,” build momentum through small, consistent actions, and embrace responsibility to drive growth in your business. Tune in to discover how to bridge the gap between knowing and doing—and find the courage to make meaningful progress.
Keywords: Small business motivation, entrepreneur success, moving from knowing to doing, personal responsibility, business growth tips, business mindset
Hashtags: #SmallBusinessMotivation #TakeAction #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurSuccess #MondayMotivation #MindsetMatters
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares the timeless story of King Midas to highlight the importance of aligning your business goals with your personal values. Through the lens of this ancient tale, Anna explains how misaligned values and a singular focus on financial success can lead to unintended consequences. She offers practical advice for entrepreneurs on defining success, maintaining balance, and ensuring that your business supports long-term fulfillment rather than short-term gains. Tune in for actionable insights on building a values-driven business that brings both achievement and personal satisfaction.
SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessValues #EntrepreneurMotivation #ValueAlignment #SustainableGrowth #BusinessGoals #PersonalFulfillment #MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessOwner
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares the powerful story of an ancient Indian guru teaching the art of archery to illustrate the importance of focus in business. Learn how setting clear goals and maintaining laser-sharp focus can help you hit your targets and drive your business forward. Anna also highlights why direction is key to success, drawing parallels to a traveler without a destination. Tune in for actionable tips on how to align your daily actions with your goals and avoid distractions that keep you from reaching your full potential.
SmallBusinessSuccess #GoalSetting #BusinessFocus #ProductivityTips #EntrepreneurMotivation #BusinessGrowth #MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessOwner #FocusOnGoals
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In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, Anna Steinfest shares the powerful lesson of the bumblebee, an insect that flies despite the odds stacked against it. Using this metaphor, Anna encourages small business owners to push past self-imposed limits and overcome naysayers. Drawing from her own experience of launching the successful Green Bay Packers Mentor-Protégé Program, Anna inspires listeners to believe in their dreams, trust their instincts, and keep going, even when the world says they can’t.
#SmallBusiness #MondayMotivation #SelfBelief #Entrepreneurship
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In this empowering episode of Monday Morning Motivation with Anna Steinfest, we dive into the reality that success attracts critics. Anna shares why criticism often comes with growth and offers actionable insights to help small business owners rise above negativity. Through real-life stories and practical advice, you’ll learn how to turn criticism into fuel for your success. Plus, there's an interactive exercise to help reframe your perspective on criticism. Tune in and get ready to soar beyond the sidelines!
SmallBusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #MondayMotivation #HandlingCriticism #AnnaSteinfest #BusinessGrowth
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In this inspiring episode of Monday Morning Motivation with Anna Steinfest, discover how the story of an eagle raised as a prairie chicken mirrors the journey of many small business owners. Anna shares actionable tips and real-life examples to help entrepreneurs break free from limiting beliefs and unlock their full potential. If you're ready to think bigger, aim higher, and transform your mindset for business success, this episode is for you!
SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurMotivation #BusinessMindset #LimitingBeliefs #SuccessStory #MondayMotivation #MindsetMatters #BreakThrough #AnnaSteinfest #BusinessGrowth
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In this episode of "Monday Motivation with Anna Steinfest," Anna tells the story of the stonecutter, a powerful example of how consistent, daily effort can lead to monumental success. Discover why persistence is essential in overcoming obstacles and achieving your business goals. This episode will motivate you to keep pushing forward, even when progress seems slow, and remind you that every small action brings you closer to your breakthrough. Perfect for entrepreneurs seeking encouragement to stay the course in their business journey
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In this episode of "Monday Motivation with Anna Steinfest," Anna shares the inspiring story of the Chinese Bamboo Tree, a powerful metaphor for the patience and perseverance required in business. Learn how consistent effort, even when progress seems invisible, can lead to extraordinary growth. This episode will encourage you to stay committed to your goals, reminding you that success often takes time and persistence. Perfect for business owners who need a reminder that their hard work is laying the foundation for future breakthroughs.
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In this episode of "Monday Motivation with Anna Steinfest," Anna shares a powerful story about a balloon vendor and a little boy that reveals a profound truth: It’s what’s inside that counts. Learn how your attitude shapes your business outcomes and why a positive mindset is crucial for overcoming challenges. Whether you're facing slow sales or tough decisions, this episode will help you harness the power within to elevate your business to new heights.
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In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, co-hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer dive deep into the critical decisions every small business owner faces when managing tasks and setting priorities. With so much to do and limited time, how do you ensure you're not just being busy, but truly productive?
Anna and Michael introduce two pivotal questions that can transform your approach to productivity. Should you focus on efficiency—getting more done faster—or effectiveness—strategically moving your business toward its long-term goals? They explore how to evaluate tasks, projects, and strategies based on their impact on both the short-term and long-term success of your business.
Tune in to learn how prioritizing the right tasks can help your business not only survive but thrive in a competitive marketplace. Whether you're looking to streamline your operations or make significant strides in growth, this episode provides actionable insights to help you make decisions that will drive your business forward.
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In the debut episode of "Monday Motivation with Anna Steinfest," Anna explores why having the right tools and tips isn't enough for small business success. Discover the essential ingredient that every entrepreneur needs to thrive—motivation. Tune in as Anna shares insights on how to cultivate the drive and determination needed to turn your business dreams into reality. Whether you're just starting out or looking to reignite your passion, this episode will inspire you to keep pushing forward.
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In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, co-hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer dive into proven strategies that small business owners can use to create and maintain strong customer relationships. Discover how excellent customer service, personalized experiences, and effective use of CRM tools can lead to increased loyalty and repeat business. We'll share practical examples, recommend powerful tools like Zendesk, HubSpot, and Salesforce, and offer actionable insights on how to start small, train your staff, and measure success. Tune in to learn how to turn one-time customers into lifelong brand advocates.
#SmallBusiness #CustomerRelationships #Loyalty #CustomerService #CRMTools #BusinessGrowth #SmallBizTips #CustomerExperience #Entrepreneurship #BizSuccess
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In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, co-hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer delve into the crucial skill of pitching your business effectively. Learn why it's essential to plan before you pitch and discover practical tips to ensure your communication stands out.
Key Takeaways:
- Don’t Adlib: Preparation is key. Avoid improvisation and know exactly what you want to convey to make your pitch impactful.
- Don’t Pack It: Clarity and brevity matter. Keep your message straightforward and focused, inspiring potential customers to ask for more information without overwhelming them.
- Ask for Their Business Politely: It's okay to ask for their business, but do it politely and guide them on the next steps.
Tune in to enhance your pitching skills and ensure every communication opportunity is a step towards business success.
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In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, co-hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer dive into the crucial aspects of effective financial management for small businesses. Learn how to create and stick to a budget, manage cash flow to avoid shortfalls, and utilize financial software for streamlined accounting processes. We also explore the importance of understanding financial statements and offer actionable tips for reducing costs and increasing profitability. Tune in to discover the best practices and tools that can help your business thrive.
Key Takeaways:
- Creating and Sticking to a Budget: Discover the importance of budgeting and explore tools like QuickBooks and Mint to help you manage expenses efficiently.
- Managing Cash Flow: Learn strategies for maintaining positive cash flow with examples and tools such as Float and Pulse.
- Utilizing Financial Software: Understand how software like Xero and FreshBooks can simplify accounting and provide valuable financial insights.
- Understanding Financial Statements: Grasp the significance of financial statements and see how tools like Wave and Bench can aid in financial analysis.
- Tips for Reducing Costs and Increasing Profitability: Implement cost-saving measures and boost profitability using tools like Expensify and ProfitCents.
Join us for actionable insights that will empower you to manage your business finances effectively, ensuring stability and fostering growth. Don't miss out on this vital episode for small business owners looking to master financial management!
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Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer in this exciting new episode of Small Business Survival Conversations. Dive into the world of artificial intelligence and discover how AI tools and strategies can revolutionize your small business. In this episode, Anna and Michael share three crucial tips to help you harness the power of AI, drive growth, and stay competitive in today's fast-paced market. Tune in and transform your business with actionable insights and practical advice!
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer delve into the dynamic world of social media to uncover essential tools and tactics for small business growth. From selecting the perfect platforms to crafting compelling content and leveraging analytics, this episode is packed with actionable insights designed to help small business owners thrive online. Whether you're new to social media or looking to refine your strategy, our three key takeaways will guide you toward a more impactful social media presence.
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, co-hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer explore the crucial elements of effective communication for small business owners. Understanding and mastering the use of body language, tone of voice, and word selection can significantly impact your ability to build trust, convey important messages, and engage your team and customers.
Key Topics Covered:
- Body Language (55%): Learn how your physical presence can enhance your message and build authenticity.
- Tone of Voice (38%): Discover the power of vocal tone in making your communication impactful and believable.
- Word Selection (7%): Understand the importance of choosing the right words to convey your message clearly.
Anna and Michael provide practical advice on how to match your communication approach to the importance of your message. They discuss when to use in-person communication for maximum impact, how to effectively use visual and verbal communication in online settings, and the appropriate times to rely on written communication.
Tune in to gain valuable insights and techniques that will help you improve your communication skills and drive success in your small business.
Welcome to another insightful episode of Small Business Conversations with your hosts, Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer! In this episode, Anna and Michael dive deep into the art of effectively prompting AI tools like ChatGPT or Claude to maximize their potential and enhance your business operations.
Episode Highlights:
- Defining the Role of AI: Discover how to establish clear roles for your AI tool, whether it's acting as a content expert, a presenter, a decision-maker, or another key function tailored to your needs.
- Setting Clear Objectives: Learn how to articulate specific, context-rich objectives to get the most accurate and useful outputs from your AI tool. From interview questions to problem framing, the hosts discuss practical examples for various business scenarios.
- Creating Boundaries and Guidelines: Understand the importance of setting parameters, such as audience type, education level, response length, and the need for visual aids. This helps in shaping precise and relevant AI-generated responses.
- Utilizing Examples and Metaphors: Gain insights into how providing examples or metaphors can refine the AI’s understanding and output, leading to more tailored and effective results.
- Iterative Improvement: Learn the techniques to interactively refine AI responses. Whether it’s editing prompts, rephrasing, or regenerating responses, Anna and Michael share strategies to ensure you get the best possible outcomes.
Why Listen?
In today's fast-paced business environment, leveraging AI tools effectively can give you a competitive edge. This episode is packed with practical advice, real-world examples, and actionable tips to help you harness the power of AI for your small business. Whether you're a beginner or looking to optimize your existing AI usage, this conversation will equip you with the skills to prompt your AI tools effectively and efficiently.
Tune in to Small Business Conversations and transform the way you interact with AI to drive better business results!
Struggling to keep up with the daily grind in your small business? Wish you had more time to focus on what truly matters - growing your business? This episode of Small Business Survival Conversations dives into the world of Generative AI, a game-changer for busy entrepreneurs. We'll explore how these powerful tools can become your secret weapon for increased productivity and ultimate small business success, allowing you to:
- Become a Content Machine: Generate compelling product descriptions, social media posts, website copy, and even craft captivating email campaigns in a flash, freeing you to focus on strategy! Content marketing on autopilot!
- Write Like a Pro: Eliminate writer's block and refine your writing with improved clarity, conciseness, and tone. Say goodbye to awkward phrasing and hello to polished communication!
- Brainstorming Breakthroughs: Spark a flood of fresh ideas for marketing campaigns, new product development, or problem-solving. Generate questions, analyze data, and unlock hidden insights - all with the help of AI!
- Work Smarter, Not Harder: Streamline your workflow by summarizing lengthy reports, polishing interview notes, identifying project roadblocks, and even creating to-do lists. Get more done in less time and free yourself up to focus on high-impact tasks!
We'll also cut through the jargon and explain the key differences between Generative AI and traditional search engines like Google. Is it time to ditch the time-consuming busywork and embrace the future of AI in your small business? Tune in and find out how AI can become your secret weapon for success!
Welcome to another insightful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations. Today, we're diving deep into the art of branding your business—a crucial strategy to distinguish it from branding a product or service.
In this episode, we unpack the four essential guides for effective business branding:
- Consistency: Discover why maintaining a consistent brand presence in everything you offer, say, and do is vital for building customer trust and loyalty.
- Clear Messaging to a Complex Audience: Learn how to craft messages that clearly differentiate your firm from competitors, solving your customers' problems in a unique and effective way.
- Promise Ahead of Product: Understand the importance of leading with your brand promise and how it can give your company a compelling personality that resonates with your audience.
- Commitment: Find out how to showcase your commitment to evolving and staying relevant, ensuring your customers see your firm as a unique and dependable solution provider.
Join us as we explore these guides in detail, offering practical tips and real-world examples to help you build awareness, acceptance, and trust for your business. Whether you're a startup or an established company, this episode will provide valuable insights to elevate your branding game.
Tune in now and start branding your business for long-term success!
SmallBusinessSurvival #BrandingStrategy #BusinessBranding #ConsistencyInBranding #ClearMessaging #BrandPromise #CustomerCommitment #BusinessGrowth #PodcastEpisode
Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer in this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, titled "Understanding Profit: Types and Strategies." Delving into the intricacies of profit management, Anna and Michael provide a comprehensive guide to help small business owners navigate the complexities of profitability.
Beginning with an exploration of gross profit, listeners will learn how to calculate and optimize their revenue minus the cost of goods sold, laying a solid foundation for understanding business profitability. Moving on to operating profit, Anna and Michael discuss the importance of controlling operating expenses to improve the bottom line, offering practical strategies for effective cost management.
The discussion then shifts to net profit, the ultimate measure of a business's profitability, and strategies for maximizing it, including pricing strategies, cost-cutting measures, and revenue diversification. Additionally, listeners will gain insights into key profitability ratios and benchmarks, empowering them to assess their business's financial health and make informed decisions.
Through real-life examples and expert insights, Anna and Michael demystify profit management, providing actionable tips and guidance to help small business owners optimize their profits and drive sustainable growth. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, this episode equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in today's competitive landscape.
Tune in to Small Business Survival Conversations and embark on a journey to unlock the secrets of profit optimization for your business success.
Hashtags: #SmallBusiness #ProfitManagement #BusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship #FinancialHealth #GrowthStrategies #BusinessTips #SustainableGrowth
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, co-hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer sit down with Barb LaMue, a seasoned economic development and entrepreneurship expert. With a rich background in fostering innovation and growth, Barb shares invaluable insights and strategies for small businesses aiming to thrive in today's dynamic landscape.
Drawing from her extensive experience, Barb delves into various topics crucial for small business success. She discusses navigating economic challenges, fostering innovation, building strategic partnerships, and nurturing professional networks. Additionally, she provides practical advice on attracting and retaining top talent, integrating sustainability practices, and effectively leveraging emerging technologies.
Barb highlights the unique opportunities and challenges facing small businesses in rural areas, shedding light on initiatives like TitleTown Tech, a collaborative effort between the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft aimed at driving innovation in The New North region. She emphasizes the importance of understanding local economic dynamics and trends while positioning entrepreneurs to capitalize on future developments.
This episode offers a wealth of knowledge for entrepreneurs and economic development professionals alike, from actionable tips to avoid common pitfalls to foresight on upcoming trends shaping the small business landscape. Join us as we explore how small businesses can thrive and grow in today's competitive environment.
For more information on Barb LaMue and her work in economic development, visit Barb LaMue's bio. Explore TitleTown Tech's innovation hub in collaboration with the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft in The New North region at thenewnorth.com.
Tune in for insightful discussions and actionable advice tailored to small businesses growth and success. #SmallBusiness #EconomicDevelopment #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #Sustainability #Networking #Technology #RuralBusiness #SmallBizSuccess
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer delve into the vital topic of Smart Leadership (and Ownership) in the Age of AI. Shedding traditional hierarchical structures, they advocate for a hands-on approach where leaders immerse themselves in the trenches alongside their team members.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of first seeing employees as individuals, fostering a trust and communication culture. Anna and Michael highlight the significance of empowering employees, allowing them to learn and teach, ultimately fostering a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and engaged.
Listeners will gain insights into effective communication strategies, understanding that clarity and transparency are key to building strong teams. Celebrating accomplishments and providing meaningful feedback are also explored as essential elements in nurturing employee growth and retention.
Tune in to discover practical tips and strategies for redefining leadership in the modern business landscape, attracting small business owners seeking actionable insights to thrive in the digital age.
SmartLeadership #SmallBusinessSurvival #AIinBusiness #EmployeeEmpowerment #CommunicationStrategies #LeadershipTips #BusinessPodcast #EmployeeRecognition #FeedbackCulture
In our latest episode, hosts Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest dive deep into the crucial topic of "Small Business Financial Mastery: Navigate Your Path to Success!" Discover the indispensable role of financial indicators and why they are the cornerstone of every successful small business.
Why Are Financial Indicators Important?
Financial indicators serve as your small business's dashboard, providing real-time insights to drive informed decision-making. They offer a comprehensive view of your business's health, enabling you to identify trends, mitigate risks, and ensure long-term sustainability.
What Are the Four Types of Financial Indicators?
- Growth Indicators: Monitor changes in sales, revenue, and expenses to gauge your business's expansion trajectory.
- Profitability Indicators: Assess whether your business is generating profits and track profit trends over time.
- Liquidity Indicators: Ensure your business can meet both expected and unexpected financial obligations, such as payroll and equipment repairs.
- Leverage Indicators: Strike the right balance between utilizing debt for growth and managing cash flow effectively.
Know Your Numbers!
Stay on top of your small business's financial metrics using tools like bookkeeping services and AI-driven solutions. Understanding the underlying drivers of your financial performance empowers you to make strategic adjustments and optimize your business operations for success.
Why Listen?
Whether you're a seasoned small business owner or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, mastering your financial world is non-negotiable. Tune in to gain actionable insights that will propel your small business forward and ensure its resilience in today's competitive landscape.
Key Takeaways:
- Empower your decision-making with real-time financial data.
- Utilize growth, profitability, liquidity, and leverage indicators to drive business success.
- Leverage technology and expertise to stay ahead of the curve.
- Understand the root causes behind your financial metrics and take proactive steps to optimize performance.
Don't Miss Out! Subscribe now to Small Business Survival Conversations for more invaluable tips and insights to thrive in the ever-evolving world of small business entrepreneurship.
SmallBusiness #FinancialIndicators #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess #Podcast #SmallBizTips #FinancialManagement #BusinessGrowth #Profitability #Liquidity #SEO
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, join us as we delve into the world of artificial intelligence and its transformative impact on small businesses. Discover how embracing AI tools like ChatGPT can revolutionize your marketing strategies, boost efficiency, and drive success in today's competitive landscape. Learn the essential ingredients and step-by-step recipe for effectively communicating with ChatGPT, from defining clear objectives to refining AI-generated outputs. Our expert guests, Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer, share invaluable insights and practical tips for integrating AI seamlessly into your small business operations. Tune in to unlock the secrets of leveraging AI and propel your small business to new heights of success!
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, join hosts Michael and Anna as they delve into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its relevance for small business owners. They break down the different types of AI - Analytic, Predictive, Generative, and Intelligent - to demystify what each means for your business.
With AI evolving rapidly, Michael and Anna discuss whether small business owners should be concerned or interested in adopting this technology. They emphasize that AI isn't here to replace us but rather to work alongside us as a reliable assistant that learns and improves over time. From streamlining processes to enhancing quality, AI offers a myriad of benefits that can empower small businesses to thrive in today's competitive landscape.
But how should small business owners approach AI? Michael and Anna suggest tackling it on a daily basis, focusing on the problem at hand rather than the AI application itself. By integrating AI, where it adds value, businesses can experience increased efficiency and effectiveness in their operations.
Looking ahead, the hosts explore AI's future implications for small businesses, from sorting and writing to managing and predicting. As AI becomes increasingly integral to various aspects of business operations, staying informed and engaged in the AI space is crucial for long-term success.
Tune in to discover practical insights and strategies for embracing AI as a small business owner and learn how it can revolutionize the way you work and thrive in the digital age.
Keywords: small business survival, AI technology, analytic AI, predictive AI, generative AI, intelligent AI, small business owners, technology adoption, efficiency, quality improvement, business operations, future implications, AI integration, digital age.
In this episode of "Small Business Survival Conversations," co-hosts Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest delve into the crucial topic of decision-making for small business owners. Together, they guide you through a thought-provoking exploration of how to approach decisions when faced with critical issues in your business.
Join this dynamic duo as they explore questions such as: What options are available to you when tackling a problem? How can you assess the factors and information necessary to make informed choices? We'll also examine the importance of uncovering your assumptions about each option and evaluating potential outcomes.
Through candid discussions and practical insights, Michael and Anna help you understand the emotional aspect of decision-making. How might you feel when considering each choice? What if your chosen path doesn't yield the desired results?
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your journey, this episode equips you with the tools and mindset needed to navigate the complexities of decision-making in the world of small business. Tune in and unlock the power of decision for your business's survival and success.
Join Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest in this insightful episode as they delve into the labyrinth of procrastination and unveil five effective hacks to conquer it. Procrastination, often a silent adversary, stealthily sabotages our productivity by luring us away from tasks that demand our attention. However, armed with these hacks, you can emerge victorious in your battle against procrastination.
They explore how tasks, especially daunting ones, trigger a cascade of emotions ranging from self-doubt to anxiety, culminating in our evasion tactics. But fear not! Michael and Anna unveil a strategic approach to outmaneuver procrastination.
First on the list is Detailing, a method where breaking down tasks into bite-sized chunks alleviates the overwhelming nature of projects. By committing to just the first two tasks, you kickstart momentum and chip away at the inertia holding you back.
Next, they advocate for Taking the Easy Route, emphasizing the importance of momentum. By tackling simpler tasks unrelated to the main project, you harness the energy needed to confront the elephant in the room head-on.
Ever heard of Eating the Worm First? Michael and Anna advocate confronting the most dreaded task right at the outset of your day, sweetening the deal with a rewarding incentive once it's conquered.
Their advice doesn't stop there. Set the Timer encourages dedicating a solid 30 minutes to the task at hand daily until it's vanquished, employing the clock as a tool to manage time and motivation effectively.
Lastly, Leading and Following suggests starting with unrelated activities like meditation or exercise to clear the mind before diving into the task. By adhering to this ritual, you seamlessly transition from preparation to productivity.
The episode concludes with a poignant question: What is your elephant in the room? Michael and Anna urge listeners to identify persistent tasks on their to-do lists, signaling a call to action. It's time to widen the door of your room or find the seasoning that makes that "long, brown, slithery thing" more palatable.
Tune in to this episode for actionable strategies and insights that will empower you to conquer procrastination and reclaim your productivity today!
In this exciting episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, join hosts Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest as they uncover the often-overlooked secrets to scaling up your business effortlessly. Drawing from years of experience and expertise, they unveil three crucial strategies that are essential for sustainable growth.
Firstly, they delve into the importance of setting a balanced growth pace. Discover how finding the sweet spot between rapid expansion and stagnation can optimize your business's performance. Dr. Troyer and Anna emphasize aligning your growth rate with your team's capabilities and infrastructure capacity to ensure smooth sailing amidst increasing sales and revenue.
Next, the duo explores the significance of creating a clear vision for your business. Learn how to craft a vision that is both inspiring and actionable, propelling your team forward with enthusiasm and purpose. Dr. Troyer and Anna provide insights into developing measurable goals for short-term wins and long-term success, fostering alignment and focus within your organization.
Finally, they uncover the secret of reinvesting your business for sustained growth. Discover why consistently channeling profits back into your company is crucial for maintaining momentum and weathering unforeseen challenges. Dr. Troyer and Anna stress the importance of prioritizing steady cash flow and building reserves to navigate uncertainties and seize new opportunities.
Tune in to this enlightening episode of Small Business Survival Conversations to unlock the hidden secrets of scaling up your business effortlessly. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, these invaluable insights will revolutionize your approach to growth and propel your business to new heights.
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversation, hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer dive deep into the world of small business support and certification with their esteemed guest, Jessie Leonard. Jessie Leonard, Director of Established Business Program and Services at the Women's Business Development Center (WBDC) in Milwaukee, brings over two decades of experience in diversity practice, administrative management, and human resources to the table.
Throughout the episode, Jessie shares invaluable insights into the importance of certification and the plethora of support services offered by the WBDC to women business owners. With a Bachelor's degree in Communications and certifications in Project Management, Human Resource Management, and Supplier Diversity, Jessie is well-equipped to guide entrepreneurs through the certification process and beyond.
Listeners will discover the significance of becoming a certified Women Business Enterprise (WBE) and the doors it can open for procurement opportunities with corporate partners. From navigating the certification application to leveraging WBDC's extensive network and resources, Jessie outlines the steps necessary for small businesses to thrive in today's competitive landscape.
Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking certification or an established business owner looking to expand your network, this episode provides practical advice and inspiration. Tune in to learn how the Women's Business Development Center empowers women in business and fosters economic growth.
To learn more about the WBDC and connect with Jessie Leonard, visit their website at www.WBDC.org or reach out directly at 414-395-4564 or via email at jleonard@wbdc.org. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on navigating the path to small business success!
Join Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer in the latest Small Business Survival Conversations episode as they unravel the secrets behind delivering a compelling presentation. In this episode, they delve into the "5 Keys to a Better Presentation," equipping small business owners with the essential skills to captivate their audience and leave a lasting impression.
- Know Your Audience:
Discover the power of understanding your audience. Anna and Michael explore the importance of identifying who your audience is, gauging their existing knowledge, and discerning their expectations. Learn how tailoring your presentation to your audience can elevate your communication and ensure a more impactful message. - Prepare in Detail - Like an Attorney:
Uncover the meticulous preparation process that turns an ordinary presentation into an extraordinary one. The hosts emphasize the use of an outline, providing authenticity and a heartfelt connection. Find out why limiting yourself to three valuable big ideas can enhance clarity, and explore the significance of knowing the details you want to convey. - Rehearse and Rehearse:
Step into the world of effective rehearsal techniques. Anna and Michael stress the importance of practicing aloud and in front of a mirror. Learn how to infuse dynamic energy into your presentation, steering clear of a monotone delivery. Discover the art of modulating your voice to emphasize key elements and engage your audience more effectively. - Listen to Yourself:
Put yourself in the shoes of your audience. The hosts explore the critical aspect of self-awareness during a presentation. Understand why it's essential to evaluate whether your message is clear and comprehensible. Learn how adopting the perspective of an audience member can refine your communication skills. - Always End with a Call to Action:
Leave a lasting impact by concluding your presentation with a compelling call to action. Anna and Michael discuss the significance of guiding your audience toward the next steps, whether exploring your ideas more or reflecting on thought-provoking questions. Discover the art of inspiring action and engagement.
Tune in to this Small Business Survival Conversations episode and elevate your presentation skills to new heights. Master the art of connecting with your audience, delivering memorable content, and driving meaningful actions. Don't miss out on the valuable insights Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer shared in this must-listen episode!
Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer in the latest episode of Small Business Survival Conversation, where they delve into the crucial aspects of business preparedness, expectation management, and maintaining a positive outlook. In this insightful discussion, the hosts draw parallels to the meticulous preparation of an attorney entering a courtroom to emphasize the importance of being well-prepared in the business arena.
Always Be Preparing:
The episode explores the mindset of anticipating the questions and concerns of key stakeholders such as customers, investors, loan officers, and employees. Anna and Michael emphasize the significance of having answers ready to avoid assumptions that can lead to negative perceptions. They stress the need for confidence, acknowledging circumstances when unprepared, and continuous preparation to stay ahead.
Establish the Right Expectations:
The hosts guide listeners on the art of managing expectations, both internally and externally. They advocate for confidence while leaving room for flexibility. Avoiding the cliché of "exceeding expectations," they encourage going beyond set expectations and discuss the lasting impact it can have on how others perceive and remember your business.
Maintain a Positive Perspective:
The episode concludes with a focus on maintaining a positive perspective. Anna and Michael stress the importance of continuous planning to excel in current practices and adapt to changing conditions. They advocate for having alternative scenarios, strategies, and ideas ready in advance, highlighting the strategic role of business owners and leaders in steering their firms through dynamic environments.
Tune in to this episode for practical insights that will empower small business owners to navigate challenges with confidence, set realistic expectations, and foster a positive and strategic mindset for sustained success. Always be preparing, establishing the right expectations, and maintaining a positive perspective are the keys to thriving in the ever-evolving landscape of small business.
Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer in this episode as they unveil three game-changing strategies for small business productivity.
- Tackle the To-Do List: Learn how to prioritize A, B, and C tasks, allocate time effectively, and avoid quick distractions.
- The Rule of Immersion: Turn off distractions, create focused blocks of time for critical tasks, and boost productivity.
- Take a Break: Discover the importance of breaks for avoiding burnout, clearing the mind, and sparking creativity.
Transform the way you work and make the most of your valuable time with these actionable insights. Tune in to this Small Business Survival Conversation now!
Join hosts Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest on Small Business Survival Conversations as they unveil the three essential steps for mastering the art of budgeting. Drawing on their extensive experience, the hosts simplify complex financial concepts and offer practical strategies for small business owners. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode provides actionable insights to help your business survive and thrive. Tune in for expert advice, real-world examples, and a roadmap to financial success in the small business landscape.
"Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer in this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations podcast, where we dive deep into the strategies and tools that can make a significant impact on the success of small businesses. From spreading the Customer Relationship Cheer with powerful CRM tools to tuning into valuable customer feedback insights and navigating the art of planning and reflections, we unwrap a gift of knowledge to empower small business owners. Don't miss out on these essential conversations that could transform the way you approach and thrive in your entrepreneurial journey!
In this episode of "Small Business Survival Conversations," hosts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer and a guest, John Opichka, explore essential strategies for protecting your business from cyber threats.
Episode Highlights:
- Evaluating Risks: Learn how to assess and prioritize potential cybersecurity risks, such as data hijacking and denial of service attacks, to focus resources effectively.
- Crafting a Cybersecurity Plan: Discover the crucial steps involved in creating a comprehensive cybersecurity plan, including security protocols and working with trusted experts.
- Communication and Recovery Plans: Understand the importance of pre-planned communication and recovery strategies for both employees and the public in case of a breach.
- Practice and Improvement: Find out how regular practice and scenario simulations can help refine your cybersecurity plans and ensure preparedness.
- Cost Evaluation: Explore the costs of prevention versus potential breach costs, including direct and indirect expenses.
- Identifying Essentials: Stay ahead of evolving threats by continually assessing what's most critical to your business operations and what's at risk.
Tune in to this episode to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to secure your business against cyber breaches.
Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer in this episode of Small Business Survival as they uncover the key to making captivating pitches. Discover the four essential steps to influence customers, colleagues, and investors. Learn how to strike a balance between emotional appeal and logical persuasion in a concise, straightforward manner.
You'll discover why brevity is crucial in a world of short attention spans. Avoid the common pitfall of lengthy and complex pitches. Align your pitch with the problems your audience wants to solve and emphasize the importance of authentic, customer-focused communication.
Anna and Michael share valuable insights, drawing from Matt Abrahams' four statements: "What if you could," "so that," "For example," and "And that's not all." These statements guide you in crafting compelling pitches for various opportunities, whether it's for customers, colleagues, or investor-minded individuals.
Improve Your Productivity Without Working More Hours
Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer discuss five key steps small businesses can take to improve their productivity without working more hours. In this episode, you'll learn how to:
- Take breaks and get more sleep
- Prioritize for the long run
- Train your employees well
- Identify the actions and decisions that will benefit you most in the future
- Be cautious of your human tendency to focus on the urgent
If you're feeling overwhelmed and overworked, you don't have to keep sacrificing your health and well-being. Listen to this episode to learn how to be more productive without working more hours.
Hosted by Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer
In this episode, Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest share tools and tips on how to delegate effectively. They discuss why delegation is important, how to identify tasks that can be delegated, and how to choose the right people to delegate to. They also provide advice on how to set clear expectations, provide feedback, and let go of control.
Whether you're a new small business owner or a seasoned pro, this episode is for you. Learn how to delegate effectively so you can focus on the most important things and grow your business faster.
Topics covered in this episode:
- The benefits of delegation
- How to identify tasks that can be delegated
- How to choose the right people to delegate to
- How to set clear expectations
- How to provide feedback
- How to let go of control
Welcome to Small Business Survival Conversations, where we unveil four indispensable networking strategies that will help you stand out, connect meaningfully, and represent your business effectively.
1. Elevator Pitch Excellence: Craft an engaging elevator pitch that's quick, simple, and intriguing. Make it foster a response – a question, a laugh, or piqued interest – from your listener.
2. The Art of Storytelling: Prepare a repertoire of stories, including successes, honest reflections on failures, amusing anecdotes, and pivotal decisions. Use them strategically to create admiration, humor, and a bond with your audience while showcasing your character and values.
3. Authentic Personal Branding: Learn to brand yourself in an open and unpretentious manner that draws people in. Your personal brand should be concise and compelling, reflecting your essence and what sets you apart.
4. Savvy Conversation Navigation: Efficiently move in and out of conversations based on your goals. Identify the right people to connect with and make the most of your networking opportunities.
Join us with experts Anna Steinfest and Michael Troyer as we delve into these four networking strategies that will enhance your interactions, strengthen your connections, and drive your business forward. Whether you're a seasoned networker or just starting, these techniques will boost your networking prowess.
Tune in to Small Business Survival Conversations and master the art of networking today!
In this special rebroadcast episode, we're revisiting a timeless conversation that's more relevant than ever. Join us as we delve into the world of product development and discover innovative ways to elevate your offerings without breaking the bank. Our expert guests, Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest, will be your guides on this journey to adding substantial value to your products without incurring additional costs.
In today's fiercely competitive market, finding ways to stand out and delight your customers is paramount. Michael, a seasoned product strategist, and Anna, a marketing guru, bring their combined wisdom and experience to the forefront. Together, they share invaluable insights and actionable tips that can transform your approach to product development.
During this episode, you can expect to learn:
- Hidden Value Gems: Discover often-overlooked aspects of your products that can be enhanced to captivate your audience and drive loyalty.
- Consumer-Centric Strategies: Learn how to align your product enhancements with the needs and desires of your target audience, ensuring a more profound impact.
- Innovative Marketing Techniques: Anna's marketing prowess will provide you with creative ways to communicate and leverage your product improvements effectively.
- Resource Optimization: Michael will shed light on optimizing your existing resources, maximizing the value you can provide without increasing costs.
- Case Studies and Real-World Examples: Dive into concrete examples of successful cost-free product enhancements that have made a significant impact in various industries.
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting in the world of business, this episode will provide you with a fresh perspective on adding value to your products. Join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the secrets to enriching your offerings without the burden of added expenses.
Tune in, take notes, and get ready to transform your approach to product development. Your customers will thank you for it, and your bottom line will too.
Dive into a compelling discussion on enhancing customer service for small businesses in our latest podcast episode, "Mastering Customer Service: Setting Your Small Business Apart." Hosted by Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest, this episode features a captivating interview with customer service expert Dan Hatheway. Discover the essential role of exceptional customer service in building loyalty and trust, and gain insights into effectively differentiating your small business from competitors. Learn firsthand from Hathway's wealth of experience as he shares practical tips for training your team to deliver outstanding customer experiences, enabling you to create a customer-centric culture that stands as a hallmark of your brand's success. Don't miss this episode for actionable strategies to elevate your business through exceptional customer service.
In this enriching podcast episode, join host Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer as they delve into the world of networking and unveil the four essential keys to building strong and effective connections for your small business.
Owning a small business can be challenging, and networking is crucial in driving growth and success. Anna and Dr. Michael Troyer will share their expertise on how to harness the power of networking to take your business to new heights.
- Authenticity and Purpose: Discover the importance of authenticity in presenting your brand and how having a clear sense of purpose can attract like-minded individuals to your business. Dr. Michael Troyer will provide valuable insights into aligning your business's core values with your networking efforts.
- Active Listening and Empathy: Effective networking for small business owners involves understanding the needs of your potential customers, partners, and collaborators. Anna and Dr. Michael Troyer will discuss the art of active listening and empathetic communication to create lasting and meaningful relationships with your network.
- Navigating Networking Events: Small business owners often face unique challenges when attending networking events. Learn practical strategies and pro tips on how to navigate these gatherings with confidence, making authentic connections that can lead to fruitful collaborations and partnerships.
- Following Up and Building Long-Term Relationships: Building a strong network goes beyond the initial interaction. Anna and Dr. Michael Troyer will guide you on the art of effective follow-up, nurturing long-term relationships that can result in loyal customers, repeat business, and invaluable support for your small business.
Tune in to this episode to gain actionable advice and inspiring anecdotes that will empower you as a small business owner to transform your networking approach. Whether you're seeking new clients, strategic alliances, or community support, these four keys will revolutionize the way you network, helping you establish your small business as a powerful force in your industry. Get ready to unlock the potential of networking and take your small business to unprecedented levels of success!
In the fast-paced world of e-commerce, building trust is paramount to success. Each customer interaction presents a unique opportunity to establish a strong bond with your audience. In this episode, we delve into the six pivotal moments that can significantly impact your brand's credibility. From the importance of independent evaluations and initial contact to providing trial opportunities, streamlining the purchasing process, and ensuring seamless shipping and returns, we explore how these interactions contribute to customer retention and loyalty. Join us as we uncover effective strategies to cultivate trust and strengthen your brand's reputation in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.
In this insightful episode, co-hosts Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest delve into the process of finding the right agency or freelance designer to build your website. Navigating the vast sea of options can be overwhelming, but fear not! Our hosts break it down into six essential factors that will guide you towards making the best decision for your business.
Firstly, they emphasize the importance of finding a designer who takes the time to understand your industry and business. Just like hiring a new employee, you need someone who genuinely cares about your results and is invested in your success.
Next, they explore the significance of technical skills. A great designer should possess both creative flair and advanced technical abilities to deliver the website you envision. While many agencies can create basic sites, finding a designer with exceptional technical skills sets them apart.
Considering the business model is the third factor discussed. Whether it's a local agency with face-to-face interaction or a virtual agency with lower overheads, it's crucial to align their business model with your needs and preferences.
Our hosts then emphasize the value of industry experience. While the designer's expertise lies in building websites, having prior experience in your specific sector can greatly enhance their ability to understand and cater to your unique business goals.
The fifth factor centers around the fee structure. Design agencies may charge hourly rates or provide fixed fees for defined scopes of work. Understanding their fee structure, including upfront deposits or installment payments, ensures alignment with your budgeting needs. Fixed pricing can offer more predictability and fewer surprises in invoice amounts.
Finally, Dr. Troyer and Anna Steinfest touch on the significance of a designer's ability to complete your specific project. While prior experience in similar projects is advantageous, they highlight that designers lacking extensive experience may compensate in other ways and can often offer more affordability.
Tune in to this episode to gain valuable insights and guidance on finding the perfect web designer. Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest provide expert advice on navigating these six factors, enabling you to make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives.
Join Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest as they explore the power of business automation and its impact on small brands. Discover how automation levels the playing field, allowing smaller businesses to outpace larger competitors by reacting swiftly to new trends. In this episode, our hosts recommend a selection of top business automation tools designed specifically for small brands, including productivity software like Calendly and Boomerang, email marketing tools like MailChimp and Constant Contact, billing automation tools like QuickBooks Online and Shoeboxed, and customer support software like Freshdesk and Zendesk. They also introduce Zapier and Microsoft Flow as tools for seamless integration across various applications. Tune in to optimize your business and unlock its true potential with these efficient automation tools.
Join hosts Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer in this thought-provoking podcast episode as they delve into the secrets of success that are rarely discussed but hold immense potential for personal growth. In "Four Ways That No One Tells You Often Enough to Be More Successful," they uncover powerful strategies that can transform your mindset and propel you towards achieving your goals.
The episode begins by emphasizing the value of reflection and introspection. Anna and Dr. Troyer guide listeners on contemplating the bigger picture of their focus, examining its significance, and challenging themselves to improve their approach. They reveal how taking a step back and critically assessing one's actions can lead to breakthroughs and a heightened sense of purpose.
Next, they explore the importance of listening to the inner voice. By encouraging listeners to pay attention to their instincts and inner guidance, Anna and Dr. Troyer help uncover hidden aspirations and desires. They demonstrate how tuning into this internal compass can provide valuable insights and lead to informed decision-making.
Continuing the conversation, the hosts stress the significance of lifelong learning. They advocate for a commitment to continuous personal development and expanding one's knowledge, skills, and understanding. Anna and Dr. Troyer offer practical tips and resources to help listeners embrace a growth mindset and ensure they never stop learning.
Lastly, they delve into the transformative power of self-improvement and open-mindedness. Anna and Dr. Troyer inspire listeners to cultivate a mindset that embraces new ideas, approaches, and perspectives. They discuss strategies to tap into the creative force within and encourage individuals to explore fresh thinking methods to enhance their problem-solving abilities and drive innovation.
Throughout the episode, Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer provide invaluable insights, actionable advice, and real-life examples to illustrate each strategy's potential impact. By adopting these often overlooked techniques, listeners will discover a renewed sense of purpose, ignite their personal growth, and unlock their true potential.
Tune in to this captivating podcast episode and embark on a journey toward greater success, fulfillment, and self-discovery. Remember, reimagining your path and creating your desired life's never too late.
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations], join Anna Steinfest, a successful entrepreneur, and Dr. Michael Troyer, an expert in business efficiency, to explore four essential thoughts on enhancing productivity and making the most of your time as a small business owner.
- Stop jumping at the quick and easy thing to get done: In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, tackling the small, easily achievable tasks that provide instant gratification is tempting. However, Anna and Dr. Troyer emphasize the importance of resisting this urge. Discover why focusing on these low-hanging fruit tasks might not advance your firm and how to redirect your energy effectively.
- Organize first: Time spent on organizing may seem counterintuitive when there are pressing tasks at hand. However, Anna and Dr. Troyer advocate for taking the time to organize as it ultimately saves valuable time in the long run. Learn how proper organization can prevent the "stop and start" cycle and enable a smoother workflow.
- Focus on the future: To optimize productivity, it is crucial to identify and prioritize tasks that will significantly impact your business's future success. Anna and Dr. Troyer discuss the strategies and mindset needed to differentiate between tasks that may seem urgent but don't contribute to long-term growth. Discover how investing time in these future-focused activities can save you time and benefit your business in the long term.
- Create a "Why" to-do list: Traditionally, to-do lists are created based on the tasks that need to be accomplished. However, Anna and Dr. Troyer propose a unique approach. They encourage small business owners to write their to-do lists as a list of "Why we/I need to do this task." Uncover the power behind this shift in perspective and how it can motivate and guide your actions more effectively.
Tune in to this enlightening episode of Small Business Survival Conversations as Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer share their valuable insights and practical advice on prioritizing tasks, organizing efficiently, focusing on the future, and creating a purpose-driven to-do list. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your small business journey, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to maximize their productivity and achieve long-term success.
In this episode of "Small Business Conversations," host Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer delve into differentiating your business and why it is essential. In a competitive marketplace, standing out is crucial for long-term success. The hosts explore effective strategies to achieve this, starting with the importance of directly asking your customers what they want. By gaining valuable insights into their needs and preferences, businesses can tailor their offerings to provide real value.
Additionally, Anna and Michael discuss the significance of finding and establishing a unique niche. They emphasize the importance of making a distinct contribution to customers' efforts that sets your business apart from competitors. By doing so, you can attract customers who are exclusively yours without the need to share them with other firms.
The hosts also stress the dangers of competing solely on price. Engaging in a price war reduces your business to a commodity, leaving little room for growth and survival. Instead, they encourage listeners to consider alternative approaches, such as exploring new lines of business or finding untapped opportunities within their current industry.
Throughout the episode, Anna and Michael provide actionable insights and practical tips to help businesses differentiate themselves effectively. By embracing these strategies, entrepreneurs and business leaders can position themselves for success in today's competitive landscape. Tune in to gain valuable insights on differentiating your business and seeing your sales soar.
In this episode, Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest discuss the importance of improving your ability to influence others as a small business owner. They offer three practical ways to enhance your persuasiveness and increase your chances of success in your business ventures.
The first tip they share is to make your presentation all about the listener, not about you. They emphasize the importance of focusing on the listener's needs and desires rather than just promoting your own products or services. By showing that you understand and care about their needs, you are more likely to gain their trust and support.
The second tip is to use comfortable, casual language when presenting your ideas. Dr. Troyer and Anna explain that using language that is easy to understand and relatable can make the listener feel more comfortable and open to your message. They suggest speaking as if you are talking to a colleague or friend rather than using overly formal or technical language.
Finally, the third tip is to create trust by using visuals in your presentation. Dr. Troyer and Anna highlight the importance of using examples and representations of what you are offering to help build trust and credibility with your audience. They explain that words alone are not enough to convince people, and those visuals can help make your message more tangible and memorable.
Overall, this episode provides valuable insights and practical tips for small business owners looking to improve their persuasiveness and achieve their goals. Tune in to learn how you can make your presentations more effective and engaging!
Welcome to "Small Business Conversations," the podcast that helps entrepreneurs and business owners achieve success by providing practical advice and inspiring stories. In this episode, Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest explore the concept of "less is more" when it comes to designing products and services. They offer three good reasons why simplifying your offerings can be a game-changer for your business.
First, customers often become annoyed when paying for features they don't need or use. By reducing or simplifying the design and number of features in your product or service, you can offer it at a lower price or make it easier to use. This can help you solve a problem or complete a job for your customers more efficiently.
Second, complex products or services can lower the efficiency with which your customers can use them. By evaluating your offerings and simplifying them for customers who are looking for efficiency, you can make it easier for them to get value out of using your products or services.
Finally, products or services that take too long to learn to use can add hidden costs to your business. The time it takes for customers to understand how to use your product or service is part of its price. By reducing its complexity, bloat of features, or the time it takes to learn to use it, you can make your offerings more attractive to customers.
Don't miss this insightful episode that will help you rethink the design of your products or services and stay ahead of the competition. Tune in to "Small Business Cinversations" now!
In this episode, hosts Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer share their four unique tips to help entrepreneurs and business owners grow their businesses. With their extensive experience in business strategy, leadership development, and organizational psychology, Anna and Michael offer practical and insightful advice that can help businesses of any size and industry.
Tip #1: Examine your business away from your business - Anna and Michael explain why it's essential to step back from your business to examine it from a fresh perspective. They offer strategies for identifying areas that need improvement, optimizing resources, and making changes that can have a significant impact on the bottom line.
Tip #2: Put yourself in the customer's shoes - Anna and Michael stress the importance of understanding your customers' needs, preferences, and pain points. They provide tips for collecting feedback, analyzing data, and using customer insights to improve your products, services, and overall customer experience.
Tip #3: Observe, observe, observe and ask, ask, ask - Anna and Michael encourage listeners to be curious and inquisitive about their business environment. They offer techniques for observing and analyzing industry trends, competitors, and market changes, as well as tips for asking the right questions and seeking advice from mentors, advisors, and other business experts.
Tip #4: Explore other industries - Anna and Michael advocate for looking outside your industry for inspiration, best practices, and new ideas. They explain how studying other businesses can help you identify opportunities for innovation, differentiation, and growth, and offer examples of successful cross-industry collaborations.
Throughout the episode, Anna and Michael share real-world examples and anecdotes to illustrate their points, as well as practical tips and resources for listeners to explore further. Whether you're a startup founder, a small business owner, or a corporate executive, this episode has something for you. Tune in and learn how to take your business to the next level!
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest discuss the four challenges that businesses may face as they grow. They first emphasize the importance of having enough money in reserve to support growth, including external sales growth, timely delivery, inventory management, and internal infrastructure. Secondly, they urge listeners to overcome the fear of delegating tasks to others and recognize that their time is the limit on their business's growth unless they delegate work. The third challenge is being honest with yourself about the potential for growth, with a clear vision grounded in data, customer excitement, and careful observation. Finally, the hosts caution against getting too excited and overestimating the success of their product or service, reminding listeners to stay grounded in reality and check for real enthusiasm from untapped markets. This episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for entrepreneurs and small business owners who are navigating the challenges of growing their businesses.
Welcome to this episode of our podcast, where we discuss how to improve your presentations. Whether you're presenting to investors, customers, employees, or the community, you want to make sure your message is clear and effective. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest about how to create presentations that resonate with your audience.
Dr. Troyer and Anna Steinfest share their expertise on how to think about your audience when creating presentations. They suggest asking yourself how you can speak most clearly to your audience and focusing on the micro business. They also advise washing out jargon, acronyms, and terms that others don't understand.
The experts also highlight the importance of understanding what your audience needs to learn from you. They suggest telling them what they need or want to know, talking in words they understand, and being short and to the point. They also advise leaving room for questions.
Finally, Dr. Troyer and Anna Steinfest discuss how to ensure that your audience understands why they should care about your presentation. They suggest showing your passion but also making sure your presentation is about their excitement. They advise explaining how your words will improve their lives and how they will benefit.
Join us in this episode as we learn from Dr. Troyer and Anna Steinfest how to create powerful presentations that will engage your audience and leave a lasting impact.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share tips and tools to master your networking skills.
Join Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest for a quick and actionable podcast episode on maximizing your marketing efforts in just ten minutes!
In this episode, you'll learn practical tips for identifying your target audience, creating a strong value proposition, and tracking your marketing campaigns. You'll also discover some useful tools and resources to help you save time and improve your results.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to level up your marketing game in just ten minutes! Tune in to the podcast and get ready to take your marketing strategies to the next level.
Today you will hear Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest sharing some tips on how to be successful when you build your financial plan.
In this episode, we explore small businesses' three unique advantages over their larger counterparts. We dive into the power of transparency and how it can build trust and loyalty within a small business, creating a culture of openness and mutual support. We also examine the benefits of collaboration and how small businesses can foster idea-sharing and innovation through their tight-knit teams. Finally, we look at the advantage of adaptability and how small businesses can quickly learn from mistakes and pivot their strategies, which larger organizations often struggle with. Join us as we uncover small business success secrets and how these advantages can help you thrive in today's competitive market.
Welcome to our new podcast episode, and in this episode, we'll be sharing four key lessons that every small business owner should know to succeed.
The first lesson we'll discuss is the importance of a profit plan.
Our second lesson is to revisit your lending needs in good times.
Third, we will discuss the importance of starting with small, steady steps. We'll explore how small business owners can avoid getting overwhelmed by their goals by breaking them down into manageable tasks.
Finally, we'll share advice on setting circuit breakers when it's time to call it quits.
Whether you're a small business owner, an entrepreneur, or someone interested in starting their own business, this episode is for you. Join us as we explore these valuable business lessons and gain insights to help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and set your business up for success.
In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest, and Dr. Michael Troyer delve into the topic of navigating uncertainty and the importance of asking the right questions to ensure the success of small businesses. Join them as they explore the four must-ask questions that small business owners should ask themselves to stay ahead of the curve in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode is packed with valuable insights and expert advice to help you successfully navigate the uncertain waters of small business ownership. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn how to achieve small business success with Anna and Dr. Michael.
Cutting costs in your small business is an extremely important strategy that can help you find the extra cash to get more done. Today Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer will share tips to help you cut expenses and increase your profit.
Join Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest as they share their expert tips on how to turn your business plan into action in just 10 minutes. Learn the 5 steps to achieving success with a strategic approach and take your business to the next level. Don't miss out on this valuable information!
In this episode of our podcast, we had the opportunity to sit down with Phil Hauck, the Envision Board President and former journalist for the Wall Street Journal. With a wealth of experience working with businesses throughout his career, Phil shared his thoughts on the current state of the job market and the challenges that many employers are facing when it comes to finding qualified candidates to fill open positions.
According to Phil, it has been a common issue for the past two years that there simply aren't enough people to staff many businesses, leading to intense competition for top talent. To help address this problem, Phil recommended the book "Winning the War of Talent" by Chris Czarnik, which he believes offers valuable insights for both large and small businesses that are looking to recruit employees.
Throughout the interview, Phil also provided his perspective on the importance of building strong company cultures, the role of HR in attracting and retaining top talent, and how businesses can adapt to changing market conditions. If you're a business owner or HR professional looking for ways to improve your recruitment and retention strategies, this is an episode you won't want to miss!
No matter what kind of small business you run, you will want to increase your sales and grow your revenue. That’s why so many people are interested in how to grow a small business.
There isn’t an easy one-size-fits-all business growth strategy for small business owners. But, there are key strategies you can use to give your business the best chance at growing. Listen to the founder of PTI Lennie Shefchik and learn first-hand tips and tools for success.
In an interview with Paul Tutskey, you will be reminded of the critical role of consistency in serving customers, the value of operating from a business plan that you re-visit on a continuous basis, and the challenge and importance of innovation and continuous improvement.
Every business needs to do marketing to attract customers, increase sales and compete better. Many small business owners need help calculating how much money they should spend.
Anna Steinfest and Dr. Micheal Troyer advise that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. So much depends on the kind of business you have, your business objectives and your revenue.
They offer tips for developing a marketing budget that fits your small business.
Sales - Small Business Survival Guide
Today’s sales environment is hyper-competitive! Fine-tune your SBSG sales strategies for attracting and retaining customers that truly fit your mission and vision within your community. Improve your sales know-how with these real-world tips and lessons learned from the pros.
Today Anna Steinfest and Anna Steinfest will share with you three marketing tips that you can implement to be successful. Also, feel free to download our Free Marketing Survival Guide, full of free resources. Here is the link:
https://khanplanet.com/bookshelf/Marketing/Guide.html
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you three easy steps to manage your projects.
Knowing how to prioritize work affects the success of your business. Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share some tips on how to be more efficient in doing so.
Listen to our episode to understand how to improve your credit score.
Here are our 7 tips to improve your credit score:
1. Pay yourbills ontime
2. Have the right credit mix
3. Keep your credit utilization rate low
4. Separate your business credit from your personal credit
5. Check your credit report regularly
6. Avoid debt collection and bankruptcy
7. Be patient
Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will explain in detail the questions your banker will ask you when you apply for a loan.
Here are questions your banker will ask you:
- What is your financial strength?
- What will your project’s financial impact be?
- What is your investment or collateral?
- What’s your overall business plan?
5. What’s your personal financial situation?
6. Have you done your due diligence?
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you how to win your business loan request. Here is their checklist:
Your checklist for winning loan Request
1. Prepare a business plan
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Prepare financial projections
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Identify your investment and collateral
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Check your credit history
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Shop around
It’s a tough time to be a small business owner right now.
Uncertainty and knowing what the future will bring are still in the air.
The harsh reality is that uncertainty is always present, and takes various forms, whether it is the Coronavirus crisis, trade tensions, environmental concerns, or political unrest.
Today Dr. Micahel Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share some ideas on how to be better prepared for tomorrow.
Think about your typical day. What do you think are the most impactful roadblocks to your business productivity?
Learn some tips to manage your time as small business owner.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to make sense of your financials
How to set up goals for your small business? This is the topic for our conversation today. We will share some tips and tools for you to use to be more productive.
Today you will learn some tips and tools to help you keep better financial score on your business.
Today you will learn what a business exit strategy is, why you need it, and what are the best business strategies to consider.
Today you will learn why it is important to have an accounting service and how to choose it.
Want to increase your sales dramatically? Then shift your sales focus from attracting new customers to enticing your proven customers to buy again. The best sales prospect is a prospect that's already converted—in other words, one of your current customers.
Payroll is a major expanse for any firm, and in some industries, it is the largest cost. Tracking employee labor percentage is extremely important for the small business owner because it is a key metric the owner must know so she/he can identify problems and opportunities to capture payroll savings.
Hiring is one of the most important things an entrepreneur will do to grow their company. For a small business, each new hire has a tremendous impact and influences the company's culture. The stakes are high, so you need to ensure that each of your new hires is a passionate, engaged, and committed team player. Today we will share with you few tips you can implement to be more effective when hiring employees.
How do you grow your business? What type of strategies you should implement to be successful?
What do you need to grow your company? Today we will take a look at what resources you need to help you grow from an internal perspective.
Wasting money on ineffective marketing is easy. Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you some low-budget high-impact marketing strategies to improve your small business.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will give a tool that you should use to accelerate your business success. The main takeaways are:
1. Shorten your feedback loop on the goals that you set
2. Prioritize your time
3. Measure your execution regularly
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you how to conduct a market analysis for your small business to be successful. They will answer three questions:
- What is a market analysis?
- What are the benefits of running a marketing analysis?
- How to run a market analysis?
Solutions-Focused Customer Relationships
as a Means to Earning Business Opportunities
With the consumer of today being much more aware, more knowing, and much wiser to sales tactics, there is a better way to approach a prospective customer/client.
It is to think of it as collaboration around solving the other person’s problem or helping them to complete a job that is important to them.
It is creating a value proposition of support for the other person – sharing ideas and knowledge and working together in a common effort. It shifts the focus from selling a product or a service (and the features they represent) to creating value by collaborating together to solve the person’s or company’s problem or job.
It is especially appropriate to situations where the solution or tool has a degree of sophistication in its function and value or when the cost of acquisition is significant to the potential buyer.
To begin, put your mind and the conversation into a collaborative perspective – how can we solve the problem together or complete the job in a better way together? How can this be a focus on the buyer rather than the seller (questions that drive a discussion versus statements to drive a sale)?
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Diagnose and frame the problem together;
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Generate solutions together, including what you are able to provide;
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Cultivate a peer-to-peer relationship in the process of working together;
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Identify achievable objectives/outcomes that can be realized;
Keep in mind throughout the process that you are creating value together.
Notice that this is not a pressure sales approach or a search for their pain, but a very natural process of working together, creating value and shared success for both parties, and building a relationship for the long term.
Adapted from “Is Your Sales Team Struggling to Sell Solutions” by Scott Edinger, HBR Online Blog, January 04, 2022
Today we will share with you how to focus on your business growth through the New Year.
At the beginning of a new year is a time to pause for reflection and it’s also an opportune time to plan your goals for the year ahead. Listen to our new episode to learn Anna's and Michael's best advice for setting and keeping your New Year’s business goals.
Today Dr. Troyer and Anna Steinfest are sharing their New Year's resolution for your business success.
In this podcast episode, Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to manage your most precious resource - time. Listen and learn to how own your schedule and set priorities.
Listen to Emily Jacobson, the owner of Green Bay Doulas, and learn how she survived the pandemics. Currently, she is growing in double digits. What tools and tips you can learn from her?
Bio of our amazing guest:
Emily was raised in Green Bay, she has been a labor and postpartum doula since 2011. Emily’s strength lies in supporting families through the childbearing years, in whatever manner they envision it unfolding. Unbiased and judgment-free support are the cornerstones on which Emily has built Green Bay Doulas.
Emily’s accolades include:
- Future 15 award recipient- Young Professional of the Year by the Greater Green Bay Chamber of Commerce. (2017)
- 3 Nominations for Entrepreneur of the Year by the Future 15 and Young Professionals (2016 & 2017 & 2019)
- Nominated for Business Person of the Year for the Business Recognition Luncheon through the Greater Green Bay Area Chamber. (2016)
- Nominated for Entrepreneurial Award for the Business Recognition Luncheon through the Greater Green Bay Area Chamber. (2018)
- On the Rise top 20 nomination- Rising Tide
- Packer Protege Mentoring Program (2020)
- 2020Mom National Ambassador of the Year
In her downtime, you can find Emily probably not wearing shoes! Her favorite things to do are to explore nature and enjoy an evening bonfire in the backyard with her husband and daughters. Cheering on the Packers goes without saying!
Meet the owner of Machine Plus - Jamie Veeser who grew from a 1000 sq ft machine shop to a 10,000 sq ft machine shop in one year. Learn what resources he used to do that. He will share his tools and tips for success with our listeners.
Veeser, a lifelong machinist, founded Machine Plus in January 2012 when he saw an opportunity to enhance the services machine shops provide customers. He said Machine Plus gives customers the online tools to track the progress of their orders, update cost information, and more input in the process.
One of his tips: "We concentrate on what the customer really wants and needs. A lot of shops are just about more sales, but I want to see what would help our customers, what they're lacking," Veeser said. "If they're successful, so am I."
We all deal with rejections at some point. But it’s never fun to deal with rejections in your business. The way you handle rejection can make a big difference in your business so today Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer will share with you some tips on how to handle rejection in your business, so you will thrive.
Today you will learn why Why is motivation important for an entrepreneur and How do I sustain my motivation when starting and running a business.
Share with us your favorite motivation hacks at Anna@koppagroup.com or Michael@koppagroup.com
There are two key points that every entrepreneur needs to understand about the new world of sales - persuasion and moving others. We as entrepreneurs spend a huge portion of our time not only selling in the traditional sense our product, our service, but selling in a broader sense; persuading and convincing people to do something different. That is a big portion of what we do as an entrepreneur is selling, persuading, and influencing. It’s the essence of our job. So listen to our new episode and learn how you can be more effective.
Entrepreneurs are pitching all the time. So how do they do better? Today Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer will share with you two of their favorite ways to pitch: the Pixar model and using questions when you pitch. Share with us what is your way of pitching your business.
FAB stands for Features, Advantages, and Benefits. A FAB Statement is explaining the feature, what it does ( the advantages), and how that benefits the prospective client.
Today you will learn how to communicate the value of your product or service.
There is a simple formula for that - you have to answer two main questions - what are your customers buying and why are they buying it.
Another tip you will learn from Anna and Michael is that to change people's heads you have to change people's hearts.
What is inflation and how to price your product or service in this inflationary environment? Today Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer will go back to basics and share some tips you can use to price your product or service.
Today you will learn how to improve your business productivity and create a work-life balance.
The capacity of your company for change in today's world matters strategically! Listen to our new episode to learn some tips and tools to be able to improve your company ability to handle change
Today you will learn an easy recipe for great business presentations. This is a very important skill to have to make sure that you increase your sales.
1. Tell a story
2. Keep it simple
3. Be authentic
The overwhelming workload can be huge for small business owners. That is why, entrepreneurs need to work smarter, not harder. Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share 3 ways to manage your business workload.
In order for your business to survive you need to find a mentor. Because of their own entrepreneurial experience and their objective perspective, the mentor can see where you may be draining cash, or spark ideas for new business models or initiatives to contribute to your business business growth. Listen to our new episode to learn more how the mentor can help you and your business.
Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer are sharing with you their new podcast name and logo. You will learn why you need to do this in your own business.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share some tips to ensure your business survival.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will why it is important to understand and be aware of your style of communication. The conditions under which we are living requires more and deeper communication:
- Across
- Down and Up
This is extremely important for small business owners.
When we build a business or purchase one, we often start with close friends or family to help get our idea off the ground or help operate the business.
As we improve and grow the business, the time comes when we will need additional people to help manage it. Choosing them will be very critical when cashflow and profits are tight.
We want to make the right choice given the urgency of the need and the cost of a mistake. How should we approach this challenge?
This is what you learn today from Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest at Lessons in Success
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to get better in the middle of a crisis.
Today Dr. Micheal Troyer and Anna Steinfest will be teaching you how to use negative feedback to build better products and services.
If we are going to keep telling you to work hardest on retaining the top 20% of your customers (that 80% income contribution), then we ought to help you figure out what they have in common.
Dr. Micheal Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to be a better listener and how this will help your business.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to create a long-term relationship with your customers. Probably a better question is – how can you make your customer feel better about their life and make them feel appreciated by you and your employees?
- Make them feel comfortable whether in person or online – do more of that than you thought you could do before all of this.
- Make them feel more secure – more than you thought you could do or needed to do in the past.
- Give them a reason to trust you and your business.
Our question to you is: Can you think of creative ways to do these three things – offer comfort, provide security, and create trust?
Let us know your thoughts.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will help you manage your emotions. You will learn to answer these questions:
How big is this issue in the larger scheme of things?
How much personal, relationship capital is it worth investing to make you feel better?
What other battles can you anticipate with this person in the future?
What is the big picture – what is the outcome that you most want to achieve?
Is this the war you want to win?
What is the big strategic outcome that you seek? Keep that in front of you.
The question they would like you to answer is: What is the war and what are the battles you must win, and what battles will just slow you down from getting to the Big Win?
E-mail us at info@affresearch.com.
Dr. Micheal Troyer will share today his own experiences as they relate to drafting a mentor in the Green Bay Packers Mentor-Protege Program. He will teach you how to use your time most effectively recruiting potential mentor.
Dr. Micheal Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share what to do when you make mistake. Some of their tips:
Admit your mistake – right away
Acknowledge it
Humble yourself
Then explain how the mistake happened
Now develop a strategy to rebuild the trust that you have lost
Include everyone affected by the mistake, but especially the person most directly affected
You must work to recover trust
What can you do to demonstrate that you can be trusted in the future?
Is there a compensating behavior you can offer?
- An apology in writing
- A call
- A message
- A gift
- An extra task
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will help you answer the question of how do you make money?
By investing the least amount of time, resources, and expertise for each of the dollars of profit we make
Constantly think through (monthly – set a date):
- Who should be doing what?
- Does what they are doing fit them?
- Do they fit the “what” you are asking of them?
- Do you know what resources, time, value of skills and expertise are going in?
- Do you know what value is coming out for the customer or end-user?
If you can’t answer both of these, do you realize that you are operating without a Business Model?
And your employees don’t know what they or you are doing either.
How can we serve the customer better than anyone else is thinking to do?
Customers pay for value
That is why it should be called the “Customer Value Proposition”
But the customer must be helped to see or experience the value!
One of the most difficult parts of starting a new business is successfully executing on the idea. So today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you how do you move your product idea forward.
- If you’re misunderstood, your idea will fail.
- Practice – make sure you are clear in your thoughts
- If you’re boring, your idea will fail
- Share your passion
- If you’re uninspiring, your idea will fail.
- Explain, in simple terms, how great the idea is to solve or correct the challenge on which everyone is focused
- What’s at stake if your idea doesn’t reach the right people? Who suffers? What fails?
- Make sure that everyone listening understands the impact of your idea on others – name who they are
- Be committed and persuasive
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you some shortcuts towards learning some techniques that can help your small businesses grow and be successful. Here are some of their thoughts:
- Work to learn from others
- Read widely and deeply
- Talk to people who have already done it in the past
- Soak up the lessons from the past – search for those lessons
- Ask lots of questions – to yourself and of others
- Prepare the questions in advance but let the follow-up question flow out of you as you think, learn and converse
- Show your curiosity to others
- You don’t know it until you can teach it to someone else
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you how to have a productive meeting.
There should never be a meeting where the invitation does not make it clear, in general terms, what is needed as an outcome from the meeting – what is it that we hope to accomplish and have not done so to this point.
Meetings are not for general communication. Think of the tools we have for that, that are much more efficient.
Meetings are not for teambuilding.
Meetings are not for “get-togethers” and the “how ya doing?”.
Meetings are for "getting something done"!
Or to set the steps in place to get something done!
That is it.
Don’t waste a useful tool (over-used) and people’s time (always scarce) by a bloated agenda that covers lots of topics, even if they bear some relationship to one another.
Your best and most talented people won’t attend the next meeting!
Do you really know your customers? That is the question Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will be answering in their new episode of Lessons in Success.
You want your product or service to be useful and valued by your customers. Yet, in the creation of that, you have become caught up in your own "creative genius".
For your customer to find their satisfaction or to achieve their expectations, you need to observe the process through which they go to solve their problem or complete their particular job. You should answer the following questions:
- How does your product or service work for them?
- What do they add in the way of resources ( other tools) before they achieve what they want?
- How can you serve them better by providing them more of what they want?
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will explain what is a tagline and simple steps on how to create one an amazing tagline for your business.
The elevator pitch compels customers to think of and want your product or services. When you are asked what is your business – your response should be an intriguing “tag line” or sentence that should always lead to an immediate question: “Tell me more. It sounds interesting.”
It should be a short phrase or sentence – nothing more. Just let the reaction you need, for a longer conversation that should follow.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to manage your company growth. Growth is something you want to manage even when it surprises you in terms of its intensity.
Here are some tips from the episode:
- Always Plan for Growth
- Understand that growth changes everything
- The larger your firm is or becomes, the more difficult and complex the impact of intense growth will be
Today Dr. Micael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to protect your business from surprises and be resilient (they will occur):
- Know your business inside and out – be an intense student of it (feel it in your bones)
- Be ready for surprises
- What are the metrics you need to keep an eye on
What other topics you would like to hear? Email us at info@affresearch.com
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you some ideas on how to differentiate your product.
As a business owner, you need to know how to differentiate yourself from your competitors as the surveys show that:
- 80% of customers are willing to pay more for better customer service.
- One-third of customers seek customizable products.
- 50% of customers choose sociably responsible products.
Listen to our new episode to give you additional tips and ideas.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you what is FAB ( Features, Advantages, and Benefits) analysis and how you can use it to successfully market your products or services.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you the following:
1. What is an organizational drag?
2. And how to fix it so your business does not lose money.
Organizational drag: Organizational drag is familiar to anyone who has worked in organizations. Essentially, organizational drag is the cumulative effect of “needless internal interactions, unproductive or inconsequential meetings, and unnecessary e-communications.” Organizational drag wastes time and saps the energy of the workforce.
Selling is moving someone to trust you and to want to work with you.
It is not the antiquated idea that selling is pushing people to buy something they don’t want, don’t need, or can’t afford.
It is offering ideas in a collaborative conversation with the customer.
It is being a person who takes a genuine interest in the customer’s problem, that the customer wants help in solving.
Today Dr. Micheal Troyer and Anna Steinfest will help you improve your Sales Skills.
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to get more done in less time. You will learn the following:
Learn to block (but not as in football) – will it be time-blocking or project blocking?
Waste some time by taking breaks – What???
Be more disciplined! Learn to use your smartphone in a better way.
Put those mini-tasks and repetitive tasks in a big jar. Only “snack” on them twice a day. ( like e-mails etc.)
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to manage your interruptions at work and be more productive.
Some of the tips you will learn to use are:
- Keep an Interrupters Log
- Analyze and Conquer Interruptions
- Put Your Phone to Work for You (Not Against You)
- Catch Your Breath
- Learn to Say "No"
- How to handle uncontrollable interruptions
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will talk about the challenge of pricing. You will learn the following:
- What your price should reflect
- Cost to create and deliver the product or service
- The necessary reserves listed above
- The risk you are taking on: debt, time, payroll, governmental regulations,
- The expertise that you are providing (its depth, breadth and the investment of resources in acquiring it)
- The degree to which you can customize your product or service to the specific customer’s needs
- The adjustability of the product or service to changing customer needs and your capacity to meet those needs
- The value your product or service delivers relative to the customer’s other choices
- The sacrifices and compromises (compensating behaviors) the customer will or won’t except in solving their problem, relative to the performance of your product or service.
If you would like to ask a question please e-mail us at info@affresearch.com.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will explain how to manage your small business as a team. In 10 minutes you will learn:
What makes a Team important and valuable?
- Benefits of Teamwork
- Higher productivity
- Better alignment of tasks and focus
- A company that grows offers more opportunities for team members to grow as well
- A more satisfying place to work
- A place where on Monday your excited to get back to work and on Friday your happy to have the weekend ahead
- Strategies to Achieve Teamwork
- Engage – treat everyone as having value to you
- How to: Ask, Invite, Listen, Respond
- Make the Purpose of the Business Clear – Help everyone to see their role and their fit in the team
- Recognition
- Being in on Things
- Be a willing role model to team members
“Leaders eat last”
“Leaders clean up first”
- Build a Team to support the Small Business – even more important when resources are limited
- Differentiate between a group versus a Team
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will explain when you should terminate an individual from your company. They will answer three main questions:
· Why terminating an employee is so difficult
· Why we should make the decision
· How to terminate an employee
We continue the conversation about how to hire for success:
When you run a small business, you can’t afford to make mistakes. Every client interaction, product, and invoice reflects on you and your company, and one bad experience can make or break your reputation. And that’s why, even though growing your business is a good thing, it’s natural to feel a lot of pressure when you’re hiring new employees who will represent your company to the world.
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will give you some ideas on how to select your winning members of your team.
When you run a small business, you can’t afford to make mistakes. Every client interaction, product, and invoice reflects on you and your company, and one bad experience can make or break your reputation. And that’s why, even though growing your business is a good thing, it’s natural to feel a lot of pressure when you’re hiring new employees who will represent your company to the world.
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will give you some ideas on how to select your winning members of your team.
Today Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will teach you how to see opportunities others miss.
1) Study a totally different field, then return to the original problem.
2) Invert the problem. Try to achieve the opposite.
3) Talk to hyper-creative people. Their thinking will help you see the challenge from a different angle.
You need to prepare to leave the crisis behind you by preparing for its end in advance. Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will guide you in identifying transition strategies to prepare your Firm for post-crisis opportunities, amongst them:
· Prepare to implement your plan to improve your competitive position as the crisis eases;
· Prepare for the opportunities that the end of the crisis will offer and its eventual end can create for you;
· Prepare to satisfy the “pent-up” demand that will turn into sales as the crisis ends, and yet not over-prepare.
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest will share with you steps you should take to create a successful Crisis Contingency Plan (and a Due Diligence Assessment). The Assessment focuses on two main strategic positions:
· The firm’s strategic and financial position
· The firm’s competitive position
The contingency planning process then guides you through a determination of the key steps that you will need to take at designated stages of the crisis. It will serve as a roadmap for your decision-making, intended to help you sustain your firm.
Today’s podcast outlines how experts review specific strategies and related tools for family-owned business owners to explore and implement while navigating through the difficult COVID-19 crisis.
It is extremely tough and stressful for anyone in business to know how to deal with the predicted coming depression—then add in family-business factors! Emotions run high; ensure the speaker is understood correctly; clarity is key with responsibilities.
Learn appropriate responses to questions on how to:
· Generate and foster more positive, constructive communication (more than less to avoid family believing that a leader’s silence = the worst news is looming ahead)
· Consider your message content (carefully and thoughtfully) + timing of delivery to the family
· Address fears attentively
· Find common ground
· Identify criteria to guide the family business through tough times
ABC Tip: Listen to others; choose words carefully; de-personalize situations.
By following an agenda, conduct a fruitful meeting and allocate responsibility to particular family members with a reasonable action date. Chaotic meetings could further isolate and splinter the business, so bring focus by asking questions, such as: “What are we trying to accomplish?”Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer conduct an educational dialog on family needs, dynamics, history, and culture. Our ABC Podcast: Lessons in Success, Episode 11: How to Manage Your Family-owned Business during Difficult Times.
Show notes:
As the manager or leader of a family business, identify criteria to guide the family business through tough times. Anna and Michael explain how finding common ground sets a good foundation to construct a strong relationship. Implement one or two of our episode tips to get started! ABC Podcast Tip of the Week: Establish a code of conduct and do not assign blame!
We will share with you 3 tips to get successful funding for your SBA PPP loan, also we will answer questions like:
1. What is the Paycheck Protection Program?
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Who is eligible?
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When was the new PPP signed?
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Our Three tips to be successful in getting funding:
· Apply for PPP at Fintech ( discussing what is a FinTechs and why FinTechs)
· Prepare your monthly payroll documents don't forget depreciation, health insurance, and retirement contributions
· Prepare all you 2019 documents and 2020 documents
Feel free to contact us at info@affresearch.com
The focus of this podcast is on B2B mentorship which aligns with the Green Bay Packers (GBP) Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) and expands on a blog article written on April 6, 2020 by David Smith and Brad Johnson (HBR blog).
Mentors and protégés readily acknowledge that current recession/pandemic times are new to all. Potential benefits of practicing social distancing are:
· Growth fostering
· Role modeling
· Mentor learning opportunities
· Value-added learnings (tech, interaction with clarity, affirmations)
· Awareness of email shortcomings (unclear tone)
ABC Tip: Leaders eat last!
New video conferencing technology is stepping up to provide clean, honest interaction and offer flexibility in scheduling. During these extended times of self-quarantine, we can feel less isolated and more accessible for co-workers, clients and mentor-protégé relationships. Anna Steinfest and Dr. Michael Troyer outline three recommendations for building a solid mentor-protégé or mentorship relationship. To receive a copy of A Quick Action Guide for Coping with Recession contact info@affresearch.com. Our ABC Podcast: Lessons in Success, Episode 9: Social Distancing doesn’t have to Disrupt Mentorship.
Show notes:
Mentorship delivers varied results for protégés and mentors. Many mentors, typically from larger corporations, have noticed that small companies can react and implement change faster than their greater organizations. Protégés seek and receive expert mentorship guidance and someone to lean on. Michael and Anna explain the brighter side of social distancing. ABC Podcast Tip of the Week: Be a cheerleader! Give affirmation, validate each other and acknowledge the situation.
As a business owner trying to prepare for a long recession, you will be forced to make drastic moves to survive. Get and keep your company in survival mode with these management strategies for critical facets of your business, such as:
· Cash position (outflow/inflow)
· Debt position (debt control/debt planning)
· Payroll
· Communication
· Accounting/Tax planning
ABC Tip: Don’t take cash to maintain business as usual: consider the options!
By encouraging alternative, yet effective, approaches to cope with a recession, together with Dr. Michael Troyer, Anna Steinfest shares real ideas on surviving the 2020 recession! Dissect debt position into debt control, debt leveraging, debt bridging and debt planning with the highly informative tips in our ABC Podcast: Lessons in Success, Episode 8: A Quick Action Guide for Coping with a Recession.
Show notes:
Strategic options to reflect on for handling long-term and at-risk-of-default customers might include loyalty considerations, partial payment, and risk assessment. Michael and Anna reveal why a recession contingency plan should be a key part of your small business playbook. Our ABC Podcast Tip of the Week: Prepare a Recession Plan!
Business growth is regarded as a measure of business success. Our How to Grow Your Business podcast explores your options which could:
1. improve your ability to manage change
2. provide a springboard to stay ahead of change and the competition
3. get your team excited about that success
ABC Tip: Explore alternate options to instigate and develop business growth.
Along with valuable input from Anna Steinfest, Dr. Michael Troyer analyzes and offers insight relating to terms such as convergence, tweaking your business model and the outside-in concept. Seek feedback directly from your clients to consider redesigning your business model and culture. Grow your business into an enhanced version of itself with the tips in our ABC Podcast: Lessons in Success, Episode 7: How to Grow Your Business.
Show notes:
What is a blue ocean? How does it differ from a red ocean? Learn about the term 'uncontested marketplace.' Consider who is leaving the marketplace or look at markets that are unserved or declining. Perhaps non-customers are worth approaching to grow your market! Our ABC Podcast Tip of the Week: How to gauge if your legacy product is in need of an upgrade?
Is your sales team experiencing a lull in closings? The price tag may hold the key! Our ABC Podcast Tip of the Week: Three steps to successful sales!
Why is it a struggle to close a business deal? Discover our 3-step process in a concise episode that goes to the heart of the subject. Find the right balance to bring comfort to your sales process:
1. hone your listening skills and ask targeted questions
2. practice, practice, practice … prepare yourself to heighten your sales comfort level
3. research your customer’s needs and focus on the benefits they seek
ABC Tip: Focus on the benefits your product or service can provide the customer.
In this episode, Dr. Michael Troyer takes the lead by asking sales specialist Anna Steinfest to recap the top three steps of the sales process: Listen, show empathy and bring confidence to the table! Convert your sales into a high success rate with the tips in our ABC Podcast: Lessons in Success, Episode 6: Closing a Deal.
By delegating, CEOs can make the most of each hour of the workday. Self-assess where to best allocate your time and skillset. Our Podcast Tip of the Week: If employees are leaving work earlier than the CEO, then not enough delegating is going on!
For CEOs, the challenge of delegating is a critical, daily struggle to correctly manage and prepare for corporate and employee growth. Here’s how to find the right balance between doing and leading to growing your business:
1. minimize micromanaging—consider the opportunity cost; allow the workforce to develop & grow
2. identify the work to delegate; ask your team for feedback
3. pinpoint fails (e.g., lack of clarification) and promote communication & training with customized tools, resources, and coaching
CEOs, ask yourselves these questions: Which work should I delegate? How do I learn to delegate effectively? How do I avoid 'just doing it myself'?
Tip: Nurture a motivating workplace environment that tolerates (initial) mistakes and promotes creative approaches.
Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest dig deep to reveal how to find the right balance when delegating in the workplace with the goal to grow your business. Helpful solutions are at hand in our ABC Podcast: Lessons in Success, Episode 5: Learning to Delegate.
Nowadays business owners need diverse hats to perform their responsibilities: an HR hat when hiring and managing employees; a financial hat when projecting revenue; and other hats for working with clients, generating new ideas and navigating legal issues. Every small business owner dreams of getting more work done every single day. Our ABC Podcast Tip of the Week is how to incorporate the productivity tools every business owner needs. Organize productive tools to augment team output!
Productivity tools every business owner needs. Here’s how to:
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enhance each work-hour yield with time management and project management
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identify low-cost or free productivity tools to improve team throughput
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customize to optimize specific tools for a particular team including delegating & communicating
Are these your questions: How does a business achieve this goal? How do you choose the right tools or implement rules to succeed? How do you know which tools are right for your business and the tasks you wish to accomplish?
ABC Tip: Learn how to assign priority to tasks and maintain control while avoiding distractions.
Once again, rely on Dr. Michael Troyer and Anna Steinfest as they review valuable solutions to these strategic ideas and more in our ABC Podcast Lessons in Success, Episode 4: Productivity Tools Every Business Owner Needs.