Nurture Small Business: Recent Episodes
Denise Cagan
Thank you for visiting Nurture Small Business! Our podcast will bring you small business growth ideas and stories of how entrepreneurs creatively nurture their businesses for success. We’ll share the lessons learned from real-life business owners, their growth strategies, and their survival strategies. Join us as we help you create a thriving space. Topics included: Marketing for the Small Business, Business Development, Boundaries Within a Family Business, Culture, Hiring Challenges, Business Law, Exit and Continuity Plans for Your Business, New Technology, Cybersecurity, Human Resources, Forecasting, Dashboards and Metrics.
In this soul-stirring episode of the Nurture Small Business Podcast, host Denise Cagan welcomes spoken word artist, author, and visionary Dr. Yemaja Jubilee. From her early days writing poetry in secret to producing plays and publishing books rooted in personal and cultural history, Dr. Jubilee shares how she channels divine downloads to guide her creativity and purpose.
Listeners will hear about her latest book, Born and Raised Under Jim Crow: Now You Know, her transformative dreams, and her unique acronyms like BYOV [Bring Your Own Voice], BYOT [Bring Your Own Truth], and AI [Authenticity and Integrity]. She also recounts the historic journey of bringing Dr. Opal Lee, the Grandmother of Juneteenth, to Virginia—an effort born from a dream and realized through community collaboration.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or a creative soul looking for permission to express your truth, this episode is a masterclass in living authentically, embracing inner brilliance, and letting purpose unfold naturally.
🔗 Connect with Dr. Jubilee:
Facebook & Instagram: @yemajajubilee
YouTube: Love, Light, and Positivity with Dr. Yemaja Jubilee
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
From fashion merchandising at Tommy Hilfiger and Gap to leading e-commerce at Lucky Brand, Tiana Ravden spent over two decades shaping how people experience style. But a personal challenge—ruined silk tops and sweat marks—sparked her entrepreneurial journey and led to the founding of Eroe.
In this episode, Tiana shares how she transformed a DIY solution into a patented product while juggling corporate roles, restaurant ownership, and motherhood. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and purpose. You’ll hear how she navigated the complexities of product development, built a brand rooted in authenticity, and found support in unexpected places, including her identical twin sister.
Whether you're a founder or a dreamer, this episode is packed with insights on balancing vision with business realities, protecting your ideas, and building a brand that truly empowers.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
What if the real reason high-achieving leaders plateau has nothing to do with drive, strategy, or mindset—but something deeper, hardwired into the brain’s survival instincts? In this episode, our host Denise Cagan is joined by a fascinating guest, and together they uncover the invisible ceiling that holds leaders back, even when they’re doing everything right.
Mitch Weisburgh, creator of the Mind Shifting Method, joins the show to discuss his innovative approach to revealing how unconscious survival patterns sabotage success. He explains how leaders can rewire their internal operating system to lead, decide, and scale without burning out. Drawing from neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and leadership strategy, Mitch shares the journey that led him from Education Technology to brain-based transformation, and the three essential elements every leader must master.
Welcome to a conversation that could shift the way you think, lead, and grow.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
From her early aspirations as an educator to her experiences in technology, including her time at NASA, Helena's story is one of perseverance. In our latest episode,
ultimately fueled her entrepreneurial spirit, leading her to create a business dedicated to empowering others through digital innovation. Helena delves into the art of building impactful online presences through website design, emphasizing the importance of color psychology in branding and how a signature color, like her vibrant orange, can elevate a business's identity. Small business owners will benefit from her insights into her thoughtful client vetting process, fostering genuine relationships, and the strength that comes from building a supportive community.
Connect with Helena:
- Website: hrichnetworks.com
- https://www.facebook.com/HRichNetworks
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/hrichnetworks
- https://www.instagram.com/hrichnetworks/
- http://www.youtube.com/c/Hrichnetworksllc
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Could you imagine starting your day tending to patients, then prepping to run your brick-and-mortar business, and on top of that, starting a nursing school? In this episode, our host Denise Cagan sits down with the incredibly driven Allison Lee, an entrepreneur who is living this reality every day.
Allison shares her powerful journey as a first-generation immigrant from Laos, and how the challenges of her family starting over in a new country shaped her entrepreneurial spirit. A nurse of 27 years, Allison discusses what prompted her to leap into the world of business, driven by a desire to help people in a new way.
You’ll get a real-world look at the financial rollercoaster of a new brick-and-mortar, where sales can go from zero to thousands in 24 hours. Allison shares her playbook on navigating a family business partnership, including when to push and when to step back and let your partner learn from failure. Plus, discover the single most important principle she uses to build customer loyalty that has nothing to do with marketing and everything to do with connection.
If you're looking for a dose of motivation and practical advice on building a business with true purpose, you don't want to miss this.
Listen now.
Revitalize Wellness Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/share/16DS75sHN7/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Revitalize Wellness Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/revitalizewellnessmedspa?igsh=Ymw2dHpwc3Vqd2Zs&utm_source=qr
Revitalize Wellness TikTok
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Many small business owners have experienced pouring money into campaigns that simply don’t connect with their audience and just don't bring in results. In our latest episode, we're joined by Debbie Oster, a brand and marketing strategist who helps businesses transform those scattered efforts into a focused plan, tailored to their customers.
If you are a small business owner who's overwhelmed by marketing options and unsure where to invest your resources, you'll want to listen. Together, we explore why a solid strategy is the foundation of effective marketing and how to move beyond random tactics. We also discuss key strategies for impactful marketing, including:
- Clarifying your business goals to inform your marketing objectives.
- Deeply understanding your target audience's struggles and aspirations to create compelling messaging.
- Getting strategic about where to focus your marketing spend for the best return.
- Developing messaging that resonates by speaking to your ideal client's desires.
Tune in to discover Debbie's expert insights on how to stop the cycle of ineffective marketing and start building a strategic foundation that will really move the needle for your business!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Failed organizational changes can cost you more than just time and money. In our latest episode, we're joined by Shantera Chatman, a seasoned consultant renowned for her expertise in change management and organizational culture. She's collaborated with major organizations like NASA, Toyota, Lexus, and UNICEF, helping them navigate complex transitions and ensure new initiatives truly take root.
If you're a leader, manager, or business owner guiding teams through change, you'll want to listen. Together we explore why successful change demands more than just new tools and how to master the human side of implementation. We also discuss key strategies for effective change, including:
- Driving user adoption and engagement with new systems.
- Developing strategic communications that resonate with diverse audiences.
- Harnessing cultural awareness for better organizational alignment.
- Recognizing how personal "Mind Shifts" influence leadership.
- Integrating technology like AI while maintaining the human connection.
Get ready for actionable insights to lead change more effectively!
linkedin.com/in/shanterachatman
linkedin.com/in/PowHerConsulting
instagram.com/ShanteraChatman
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Want to learn how to build a sustainable nonprofit that makes a real difference? In our latest episode we're joined by Dr. Shantell Chambliss, the founder of Nonprofitability, a business that elevates nonprofits through expert program design and strategic funding development. She is also the founder of Dress for Success Central Virginia, an affiliate of the international nonprofit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a vital network of support, professional attire, and the development tools to help them thrive in work and in life.
If you're a founder of a social enterprise or a nonprofit and want to create a stronger community impact, you'll want to listen. Together we explore organizational resiliency and its direct link to sustainability, especially for organizations reliant on external funding. As well as key strategies for nonprofits, including:
- Developing impactful programs that attract funding.
- Creating effective strategic plans to guide growth.
- Prioritizing financial diversification and sound financial management.
- Establishing a solid operational backbone to ensure efficiency.
Get ready for actionable insights to strengthen your nonprofit!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Scaling your small business doesn't have to mean sacrificing your sanity. In our latest episode, we are joined by Annette Lee, Founder and President of Provider Insights, where she shares her secrets to building strong teams, nurturing client relationships, and making data-driven decisions by leveraging her time and talent.
Listen now for practical advice and real-world examples to help you scale smarter.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Want to learn how to stop trading hours for dollars? Join us as we chat with Kareen Walsh, a visionary business strategist, author, and podcaster who helps entrepreneurs turn their vision into 7 figure businesses. Learn how she cloned herself with AI, leveraging cutting-edge technology to create an app that delivers her coaching expertise on-the-go—the innovative Hey Kareen App!
In our latest episode she joins our host Denise Cagan to share her insights on:
- Breaking free from the "trading time for money" trap.
- Developing a CEO mindset to scale your business.
- Building a conscious business that aligns with your values.
- Overcoming fear and avoiding burnout.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Tired of feeling drained by difficult clients? Sometimes, letting go is the best way to grow! Listen now as our host Denise Cagan shares her candid insights on a topic many small business owners avoid: firing clients.
It certainly may seem daunting and even counterintuitive; after all, we all want MORE clients, which means more business! But what if some clients are actually hurting your organization?
In this episode, Denise explores 3 key reasons why parting ways with a client might be the smartest move. Ready to build a prosperous business with a client roster you LOVE? Tune in now for practical advice and real-life examples to help you make those tough decisions.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
You can have the most innovative ideas and strategies, but if you lack emotional intelligence, you might fall short of your leadership potential.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Erica Emmett, founder of FYR Consulting (pronounced fire) and a certified Gallup Strengths coach, as she shares her expertise on the power of emotional intelligence in the workplace. With a diverse background spanning law, veterinary medicine, and recruitment, Erica brings a unique perspective on navigating the human dynamics of leadership.
Learn to build trust, navigate difficult conversations, and create a more productive workplace through enhanced self-awareness, empathy, and communication. Discover how emotional intelligence and a growth mindset drive success in today's business landscape.
Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your leadership skills and unlock the full potential of your team!
You can connect with Erica via LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-emmett/
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Think you landed your dream job? A few weeks ago, a very excited young woman contacted Denise Cagan regarding an email she received from Denise's company offering her a very attractive position. The problem was that her company was being impersonated! In this episode, Denise explores how today's increasing reliance on technology has made the job market a prime target for cybercriminals. These constantly evolving threats are having a negative impact on both job seekers and businesses.
Want to learn practical advice about the tactics used by online imposters to target individuals seeking new opportunities and companies looking to expand their workforce? Denise shares how to spot red flags in unsolicited job offers, protect your personal information, and verify the legitimacy of opportunities.
She also provides useful advice for employers on strengthening online security measures and safeguarding their reputation against impersonation scams. Don't become a victim! Listen now to learn how to navigate the job market safely and effectively.
Report suspicious activity to the Internet Crime Complaint Center: https://www.ic3.gov/
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Join us in this fascinating conversation with Dr. Sandy Fiaschetti, founder and managing partner of Lodestone People Consulting. She is an expert in organizational psychology, specializing in leadership development, assessment, and coaching. Her focus is on optimizing people-related systems, including organizational culture, employee engagement, talent management, and executive coaching.
In this episode, Dr. Fiaschetti joins our host Denise Cagan to share valuable insights. They discuss how organizations can identify, develop, and place the right leaders to achieve their strategic objectives. Click play and discover the importance of a data-driven, customized, and holistic approach to leadership development. Learn how her firm utilizes scientific methods and psychometric assessments to provide objective insights into leadership capabilities. As an example, imagine a leader struggling to manage an argumentative employee. How should a leader react to effectively address the situation and contribute to a positive work environment? The answer lies in this episode.
Dr. Fiaschetti is on a mission to bring the big-company secrets of organizational psychology to small and medium-sized businesses just like yours. Listen now to discover how she can make an impact in your business!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Send us a Text Message.
Tired of hiring candidates who look great on paper but can't deliver? The cost of bad hires in time, money, and morale is staggering. But what if there's a better way? Robyn Grable, an award-winning advocate for veterans, disabled individuals, and those deserving of a second opportunities, joins us to reveal how business owners can beat the hiring crunch with skills-based hiring. As a Navy veteran and CEO of Talents Ascend, Robyn has spent over 30 years in HR, championing underserved talent pools.
In this episode, she shares her expertise on:
Skills-Based Hiring: Discover how this approach opens doors for talented individuals who may not fit the conventional mold.
Tapping a Diverse Pool of Talent: Learn how focusing on skills fosters a more inclusive workforce with the exact skills you need.
Overcoming the Challenges: Get practical advice on rethinking job descriptions, using skills assessments, and providing ongoing training.
Filtering for the Right Fit: Explore how to ensure candidates not only have the skills but also align with your company culture.
Tune in to discover the future of hiring and how you can tap into a wider range of talent to drive innovation, growth, and lasting success for your organization.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Send us a Text Message.
Are you feeling the flames of burnout licking at your heels? You're not alone. In this episode, we're diving deep into the fiery depths of entrepreneurial exhaustion with a woman who's not just an expert, but a survivor.
Meet Julie Bee, burnout strategist, and author of the groundbreaking book, "Burned: How Business Owners Can Overcome Burnout and FUEL Success." With over 15 years in the trenches, Julie has been hailed by AP News, Fast Company, and Forbes for her uncanny ability to transform businesses and reignite passion in their leaders. But her biggest transformation? Overcoming her own burnout.
Don't let burnout consume you – hit play and reignite your passion for success.
https://thejuliebee.com
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
You can have great processes and technology, but if you don't have the right people-power you will fall short of your goals.
Join us for a fascinating chat with Jennifer White, an industrial engineer and process optimization pro from The MJW Group. She'll share how she helps businesses run smoother, using data and a deep understanding of how people interact with systems and technology. Learn how to make smarter decisions, improve your processes, and navigate the tricky waters of technology adoption. We'll also talk about the challenges of leading teams in today's fast-paced world and how to adapt your workforce to stay ahead of the curve.
Don't miss this episode packed with practical tips and strategies to make your business thrive!
You can connect with Jennifer via LinkedIn.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Have you ever wondered how the hours you spend sitting each day might be silently sabotaging your health? Sitting for extended periods can lead to many health issues from poor posture to chronic pain. Today’s guest discusses women’s health, corrective exercises, and the impacts of prolonged sitting.
For more than 17 years, Holly Beebe has empowered women of all ages to achieve greater fitness, health, and confidence. Her expertise spans across various life stages, from adolescence to post-menopause. Holly holds a bachelor's degree in exercise science and is certified in massage therapy, pre and postnatal corrective exercise, and precision nutrition. In this episode, Holly emphasizes the importance of strengthening core muscles, preventing posture-related issues like back pain and disc problems. She also shares proactive measures such as stretching at desks, and regular movement breaks to counteract sedentary lifestyles.
Ready to get up and get moving? Holly is offering a special introductory training package for listeners interested in personalized fitness sessions: https://www.massagebook.com/escalate-wellness/massage/deals/Intro-to-Training-podcast-special/142431
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
How can overcoming entrepreneur isolation and fostering authentic social connections lead to greater well-being and success? Today’s guest shares tips on building a thriving support network that fuels both your professional and personal journey.
Meet Melissa Wesner, licensed clinical professional counselor and founder of LifeSpring Counseling Services, a group counseling practice in Maryland. As a Brainspotting Consultant, she helps entrepreneurs overcome business challenges and feel more connected. In this episode, Melissa dives into her journey as a therapist and entrepreneur, highlighting the distinct paths of therapy and business. She stresses the importance of social connections for entrepreneurs’ well-being and emphasizes authentic networking through engaging activities like online office hours, team-building cruises, and even goat yoga!
To learn more about Melissa, her work, and her journey, tune into her podcast!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Have you ever experienced the chaos of a poorly executed onboarding process of a new hire? Today’s guest is a training expert focused on small business optimization.
Dr. Tonya Robertson is the owner of Focused Training Solutions, where she assists business owners with the complexities of the onboarding process, ensuring a smooth start for new hires. Tonya’s path to entrepreneurship started during her experience working in corporate America. Soon she realized she was missing the flexibility owning her own business could provide. In today’s episode, Tonya stresses the significance of effective onboarding to reduce stress for owners and new hires and shares tips on how to optimize existing resources before introducing new tools to accommodate clients’ varying needs.
To learn more about Dr. Tonya Robertson and her journey, check out her LinkedIn!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Imagine you could pack one backpack with life lessons, not textbooks. What would you fill it with, and where would you travel to learn them? From Northern Ireland, Bermuda, Vienna, and more, today’s guest has learned many valuable life lessons on her worldwide adventures.
Meet Meg Seitz, Founder and CEO of toth shop, a communications agency that focuses on the human and holistic approach to branding, marketing, and communications. Meg is also the author of “You Are Something New,” a 10-chapter book reflecting on her personal and career experiences over the last 20 years. She encourages letting go, trusting the journey, and being willing to say “yes.” In today’s episode, Meg and Denise dive deep into worldwide lessons, branding, humanizing communication, adapting to change, and more. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Enjoyed what you heard? Connect with Meg on LinkedIn or reach out to her via email!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
In a world where profits often take precedence, how are business leaders embracing their social responsibilities? Today’s guest has donated over four million bras globally, making essential items accessible while promoting environmental sustainability.
Elaine Birks-Mitchell, CEO of The Bra Recyclers focuses on circular economy principles by recycling and reusing bras to prevent landfill waste. Recognizing a community need, Elaine balances social impact with sustainable business practices. Beyond The Bra Recyclers, Elaine mentors students on social entrepreneurship and plans to offer consulting services on zero waste initiatives soon. In this episode, Elaine and Denise dive deep into data-driven sustainability, pricing strategies, the importance of reliable revenue streams for nonprofits, and much more. It’s time to make a living for your giving!
Ready to start making an impact? Sign up for the HundredX campaign by May 7th for a chance to win a $100 dollar gift card for FREE this Earth Month! Text "FEEDBACK" to 90412 or follow this link to sign-up. When asked which organization you are supporting, please select The Undie Chest, Inc. from the dropdown menu.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
What is adversity? It’s life’s way of testing whether we’re worthy of an epic comeback story we’re destined to tell. Today’s guest is the definition of a persistent, self-made woman. As a single mother working in accounting, she faced numerous obstacles, ultimately leading her to resign from her job and embark on a journey of establishing her own thriving business.
Meet Nesha Pai, CPA, owner and CEO of Pai CPA, LLC, and author of the award-winning book “Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles”. She is also an international speaker, motivating women and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams by providing them with the necessary tools to conquer obstacles in their path. In this episode, Nesha spills stories of adversity to inspire others and offers words of wisdom for female entrepreneurs juggling multiple businesses.
Looking for more tips on how to kick adversity to the curb? Check out Nesha’s podcast, Piece of the Pai!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As an entrepreneur, how are you building, scaling, or growing your business? Maybe you’re focusing on one or all. Today’s guest shares how she uses shortcuts to help businesses succeed at all three!
Beate Chelette is the author of “Happy Woman, Happy World,” a book dedicated to sharing the challenges that working mothers face and how the lack of a code amongst women is detrimental to their personal development as leaders. Beate dishes about her experience as an immigrant, entrepreneur, and business leader. Despite facing many obstacles from employee betrayal to natural disasters to personal loss, she refused to give up. Beate’s experience has inspired her to help other people make their impact in this world.
Through her business The Women’s Code, Beate helps businesses grow and scale by providing specific strategies tailored to their needs. As founder and Growth Architect, she creates strategies and designs process maps and blueprints for leaders who want to maximize their profits and scale their impact.
If you’re interested in an Opportunity Assessment with Beate, click here! Don’t forget to mention this podcast episode for priority service! Further, we encourage you to take the “What’s Your Talent Worth?" quiz to calculate the value of your talent in the market.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Can you imagine losing half your body weight? In today's episode, our guest opens up about her journey, recounting experiences as a wife, mother, former nurse, and business owner. She reflects on how these diverse aspects of her life have intricately shaped the professional she has become today.
Amy Singleton, founder of Hite Digital, shares her journey in which she lost half her body weight by undergoing bypass surgery. She discusses how she found purpose in life after struggling with her weight, health, and a divorce. In 2019, Amy started Hite Digital, a digital marketing agency that serves small businesses, helping turn their websites into lead generating machines. She finds joy in watching others’ dreams come true and is passionate about helping business owners find their purpose and improve their lives. If you’re not sure what your next step should be or just find Amy’s story interesting, this episode is for you!
To learn more about Amy and her journey, check out her podcast Queen’s Lead!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Transparency strengthens business accountability. As business owners, it is important to hold your business accountable for its actions, decisions, and impact on society. Unfortunately, there is a lot of dishonesty in the US Financial System including crimes like tax fraud and money laundering. To combat these dishonest practices, the Corporate Transparency Act was created.
Today’s guest, Shahara Wright, business law attorney and owner of The Wright Firm, works with small businesses and nonprofit organizations as general counsel, helping with legal and business strategies, including entity formation, mergers and acquisitions, investor packages, and contracts. In this episode, Shahara defines the Corporate Transparency Act and the importance of filing a Beneficial Ownership Information report (BOI). She not only files BOI reports for her current clients but also supports small business owners through her blog and website, providing valuable information on the Corporate Transparency Act. If you’re unsure of how to file a BOI report, or just looking for insights on the Corporate Transparency Act, this episode is for you!
To learn more, feel free to contact Shahara via her website!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Failure, a word often associated with a lack of success, but have you ever heard of a success story without a little bit of failure? As business owners, it is important to embrace failure as it keeps us humble, makes us stronger, and is inevitable. Today’s guest shares a unique perspective, suggesting that failure is not a true defeat but rather an opportunity for learning and growth.
Alane Boyd is a serial entrepreneur, passionate leader, and a high-growth founder. In today’s episode, Alane discusses her failures, how she overcame them, and how she is now helping others overcome their failures. Alane is the CEO of Arvo Answers, an AI-driven company helping businesses implement project management systems and automation tools. Through her work, Alane hopes to shift perspectives on failure and uplift those who feel like they’ve failed by sharing her experiences. If you’re looking for tips on how to better handle your failures and turn them into steppingstones, this episode is for you!
Looking to learn more about Alane and her work? Check out her LinkedIn!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Are your team members experiencing a sense of purpose in your company? Recognizing and fostering employee motivation is important for enhancing the overall employee experience. It's essential for employees to see the connection between their roles and the larger organizational goals. Today’s guest emphasizes the significance of purpose within an organization and cultivating a culture in which employees feel appreciated.
Sonya Shelton, a member of the Forbes Coaches Council and a certified master corporate executive coach, serves as the CEO of Executive Leadership Consulting. Her business is dedicated to co-creating exponential growth for companies by aligning purposeful strategy and passionate culture. Sonya provides tips on measuring trust and passion within an organization's culture and offers guidance on bringing these qualities to life. If you're concerned about employee burnout or lack of motivation, this episode offers valuable insights on fostering a more engaged work environment.
And for those interested in building their dream team, Sonya’s masterclass, Red Thread Leadership ™, is a must!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Are you a spontaneous spender, a meticulous planner, or something in between? As an entrepreneur, mastering the art of budgeting and forecasting is essential to your business’s success. In 2024, you likely have goals in mind such as income targets, client acquisition, or profitability. In this episode of Denise’s Opinions, Denise shares the difference between a budget and a forecast and how to use each plan effectively.
Denise emphasizes the importance of embracing data despite its intimidating nature and highlights how data is the foundation for effective financial decisions. Understand the alliance between budgeting and forecasting and learn why regular assessments are key to financial success. Whether you’ve set ambitious goals for the year or simply have a vision in mind, join Denise as she navigates a business owner’s financial game plan!
Looking for more insights and tips on budgeting and forecasting? Register for Denise’s next webinar: “Unleash Success in 90 Minutes: Your Blueprint for Sales and Marketing Triumph” set for Thursday, January 25th. See you there!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As a business owner, are you prioritizing your employees' well-being? With the evolving needs of the workforce, it is important to consider what your employees value beyond their day-to-day tasks. Today’s guest speaks on the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace.
Meet Autumn Collier, founder of The Well Woman, LLC, specializing in supporting women with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, and life transitions. In this episode, Autumn emphasizes the significance of contentment rather than constantly chasing happiness. She advocates for establishing boundaries between work and personal life to foster a healthy mindset. Autumn lives by her motto, “Why not?” —encouraging individuals to pursue their dreams and goals without fear and hesitation. If you’re looking for tips on how to reduce workplace stress and create a compassionate culture around mental health, this episode is a must-listen!
For more tips on mental health, tune into Autumn’s podcast, Lady and the Couch.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
In the wake of significant changes witnessed in recent years, a remarkable shift in the workforce has unfolded. With the retirement of Baby Boomers and a rise in Gen Z workers, businesses must really consider what employees value. Join Denise as she dives into the current trends in the workforce, shedding light on their effects on both employees and employers.
Denise explores the positive and negative aspects of workforce trends, such as the rise of remote and hybrid work models. She emphasizes how these new approaches can enhance overall well-being while also acknowledging their potential impact on mental health. From the importance of cultivating soft skills to the value of gathering employee feedback and championing diversity initiatives, Denise provides insights on creating a more enjoyable workplace and navigating through transformative changes. Catch valuable tips for preparing for the changing workforce in this episode of Denise’s Opinions!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Are you a business owner who finds it challenging to strike up conversations with new people? You're not alone! In today's podcast, our guest sheds light on the crucial role of human connection in the sales industry. She dives into how her curiosity became the cornerstone of her sales expertise and emphasizes the significance of focusing on the right activities to drive sales success.
Nancy Calabrese, founder of One of a Kind Sales, brings a unique perspective to problem-solving through consultative selling. Her company not only engages in cold calls but also provides coaching to business owners on the art of effective cold calling. If you're keen on exploring the benefits, challenges, and proper techniques of phone prospecting, this episode is a must-listen!
If Nancy’s perspectives and experiences have piqued your interest, you can discover more about her by visiting her LinkedIn.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Mastering communication goes beyond just words, especially in the business world. If you’re an entrepreneur, finding the balance between effective communication and staying true to yourself is crucial. Today’s guest takes us through her experiences with both verbal and nonverbal communication, emphasizing how honing nonverbal skills can significantly enhance verbal communication.
Rachel Cossar, founder of Virtual Sapiens, shares her unique journey delving into nonverbal expression. Drawing from her background as a dancer, she unravels the layers of human communication beyond spoken language. Through her initiative, Virtual Sapiens, Rachel aims to help teams grasp the important connection between performance, communication, and expression. Discover how Virtual Sapiens elevates human coaching by leveraging AI to provide valuable feedback on presence and communication!
For more insights into Rachel’s journey and Virtual Sapiens, you can check out her LinkedIn page.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As a business owner, do you feel it is your responsibility to be an expert in every aspect of your business? If you answered yes, you are not alone! Today’s guest shares her experience as a female business owner and how she dealt with overvaluing expertise and striving for perfection.
Sara Shelton, founder of PassionFruit Professional Coaching, shares insight into why women, more often than men, struggle with asking for help or admitting they don’t know something. Covering topics such as corporate culture and self-confidence, she provides guidance on overcoming perfectionism, building complex relationships, and improving confidence.
Learn from Sara’s personal experience of launching her own coaching business, so you can be ahead of the game!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As an entrepreneur, you might be struggling to figure out how to balance your life as a business owner. It sure was a challenge for me! That’s why today’s guest is here to share her own underdog story, along with the importance of having a support system and being transparent while running a business.
Tanya Alvarez founded OwnersUP to provide support to entrepreneurs who feel overwhelmed and overworked. From time management to accountability, Tanya provides insights and examples on how to overcome challenges as an entrepreneur. Want to learn how you can use tools such as goal recipes, time analysis, the four layers of accountability, and the “rap” method to improve your efficiency? Tanya shares how to do it all in this episode!
To learn more about Tanya and her business, you can check out OwnersUP on LinkedIn.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Have you ever contemplated what could be holding your team back from unlocking their true potential? Our guest today reveals that the key to this puzzle lies within effective communication. You might be skeptical, assuming that your business already has a well-crafted communication strategy in place. However, our guest shines light on how even the best communication practices can gradually morph into toxic barriers, preventing individuals from expressing their true thoughts and intentions.
Meet Marsha Acker, a coach, speaker, podcast host, business owner, and today’s guest. Her company, TeamCatapult, exists to “help leaders be more effective, collaborative, and adaptive as they grow their teams, lead change, and achieve their desired results.” To say the least, listeners are in for a treat as Marsha delves into structural dynamics layer by layer, sharing how business owners can use this approach to analyze employee communication. Learn how confronting childhood experiences and creating a space where teams can be vulnerable could transform conversations and improve team dynamics.
For more information on effective and collaborative leadership strategies, tune into Marsha’s podcast, Defining Moments of Leadership.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Want to build a more equitable workplace? It starts with employee buy-in, and what better way to do that than through pay transparency? Lucky for you, today’s guest is passionate about equitable pay and is here to share alternative pathways for advancing your business and team.
Sally Loftis, managing partner of Loftis Partners, shares the importance of disentangling performance management from compensation and how it influences employee retention and productivity. She highlights the significance of employee buy-in and communication when implementing changes related to pay. Her stance on addressing pay equity within an organization emphasizes the need for curiosity and collaboration, not blame and judgment. Get better equipped to lead your team with effective communication and foster a workplace built on trust.
- Follow and subscribe to my monthly LinkedIn newsletter, Fully Human | Resources
- Subscribe to my monthly email newsletters here
- Follow me on LinkedIn
- Visit the Loftis Partners
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Are you aware of the impact your habits have on your finances, relationships, business, and health? In today’s discussion, not one but two experts in the field of physical and financial wellness join the show to discuss the importance of understanding our habits, how to change them, and how they impact all aspects of our lives.
Elizabeth Colen, owner of Ms. Fit One and Jaqee Cooke, owner of Heart Soul Money shed light on the transformative power of group training programs within companies, offering insights into how these programs can elevate employee well-being, strengthen loyalty, and drive improved performance. Moreover, they highlight how even small businesses can invest in alternative benefits that promote well-being, fostering a healthier work environment where employees feel valued and thrive.
Join us as we explore the profound connections between habits, well-being, and success!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Success doesn't solely stem from your IQ; emotional intelligence plays an equally important role. To cultivate a thriving business and a successful team, textbook knowledge alone won't cut it. You have to be able to understand your own emotions and those of your team. Dive into the world of emotions, understanding, and leadership in this episode with our guest — an expert in the field of emotional intelligence.
Come to understand just how essential emotional intelligence is for effective communication with Mic Alexander, Emotional Intelligence Coach at Image Wealth and the author of Image is Power. She breaks down various aspects of emotional intelligence, dissecting the different theories that revolve around the topic, and how it ties into the workplace. Through the insights Mic shares, we will uncover the importance of fostering win-win outcomes, where individuals actively support each other's success.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Did you know there’s a difference between work-from-home and remote work? While many use the terms interchangeably, there are important differences between the two when it comes to where your employees can work. Today’s guest is ready to help you understand these distinctions and navigate the complex tax implications of hiring remote and work-from-home employees.
Deanna Baumgardner, owner of Employers Advantage, provides insight into how to handle compliance with tax laws for employers that hire off-site workers. Do you follow tax laws of your location or where the employee is located? What if they take their computer with them on a trip to Europe? What laws are you bound to then? Join us in this compelling conversation that will help keep your business out of hot water.
What is social proof? Do your reviews affirm that you are a legitimate business that provides excellent goods and services? What about third-party reviews such as Google Reviews, Trust Pilot, or Clutch? Your reviews must create proof, which leads to trust, and is a part of your marketing engine. But your reviews are only a small piece of your Total Online Presence. Your reviews, social profiles, competitors, and website are major items that also go into your Total Online Presence.
In steps Debbie Oster of Entrepreneur’s Edge, who helps small businesses develop their marketing strategy. She breaks it all down into bite sized bits and explains the difference between a marketing strategy and a marketing plan and why you need both. Listen in and learn how all of this plays together to enhance your marketing.
Connect with Debbie on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook.
Whatever happened to the human aspect of human performance? Over time, businesses have abandoned the practice of encouraging human connection in the workplace. It's time we break free from the impersonal, robotic-like business models and embrace a more humanizing approach to performance!
Angie Dianetti is the President of Radcom, a performance consulting company. She discusses how her company is paving the way in the performance industry. Angie also dishes out her expertise for company leaders wanting to approach performance in a more humanized way. Explore ways to cultivate a work environment that encourages genuine relationships, which in return will improve results
When it comes to running a franchise, what is most important to ensuring its success? Today's guest has the answer, as well as useful advice on navigating the complicated world of buying and maintaining a franchise!
Here to answer these questions is Jane Stein, a certified franchise consultant and the Founder and President of Your Franchise is Waiting. Jane breaks down the structured phases of the sales processes for franchises, discusses the importance of accurately estimating the financial runway and time commitment, and sheds light on the difference between franchises and licensee agreements. She even touches on how female ownership of franchises has been growing rapidly and what that means for women in business.
Interested in continuing your franchising journey? Download Jane’s free eBook, The Girlfriend’s Guide to Franchising, to learn more!
From employment trends such as the Turnover Tsunami to the Great Reshuffle to the Great Stay, employers have seen a lot of changes in the employment market over the last few years. Though many of these types of changes are out of your hands, there are some things your company can control. Explore past and present employment trends and learn how to take back the driver’s seat in an ever-changing employment market in this episode of Denise’s Opinions!
Denise discusses how changing circumstances and job market fluctuations can impact employee decisions. She provides tips for employers on how to create a positive work environment, including fostering relationships, open communication, growth opportunities, recognition of achievements, tough conversations, work-life balance, and maintaining strong relationships with team members and clients.
ADHD and entrepreneurial success are an unexpected yet emerging duo. Whether you yourself have ADHD or you manage a team with individuals who have it, this episode is for you!
Elle O'Flaherty, founder of Interlace Solutions Coaching, discusses the advantages and challenges of being an entrepreneur with ADHD. With situationally variable attention and creative problem-solving skills, ADHD brains have unique strengths. However, things like administrative tasks and working with people unaccustomed to the ADHD brain can present difficulties. Learn more about the science behind ADHD and how you can utilize it as an upper hand in your business affairs!
Remote work and work-from-home models have transformed our lives for the better in many ways. It has also impacted our mental health. In this episode of Denise’s Opinions, Denise looks at the positive and negative impacts of remote work on our mental health.
Mental health in the workplace has been a hot topic for a few years now, and we still do not completely understand the effects that the pandemic and shift to remote and hybrid work have had on businesses and people. There is a mixed bag of information on both sides that has pros and cons. Denise unpacks that bag of conflicting information as the conversation centers around how remote work is really affecting mental health. She also discusses practical action items that we can implement into our remote workdays to ensure we are taking care of ourselves.
The hiring process is a delicate game of deal or no deal, which makes it exhausting and challenging to navigate. My guest today is here to discuss how you can break the cycle, making for an easier and more efficient hiring process!
Neha Naik, owner of Recruit Gyan (ɡjɑːn; ‘knowledge’ in Sanskrit), is a leader in the recruiting game. She shares her recipe for finding the best topical talent for your company, along with her expertise on employee retention, employee transition, and strategies to help ease the challenges of hiring.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has a 5% goal to contract with women, yet 44% of small business owners are women. That doesn’t add up! Ultimately, the government is failing female business owners. So, how do we take a stand for these small business owners? By allying together.
In today’s episode of Denise’s Opinions, Denise stirs the pot, sharing her beliefs surrounding how we, including herself, have failed in allying for women-owned businesses. She cites the challenges of the certification process along with the lack of understanding of program requirements by federal contracting agencies. Denise also suggests ways that we can take part in allying with women business owners. She even shares how she plans to utilize her podcast to be a better supporter of female business owners!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Does human psychology prevent business owners from budgeting and forecasting to meet their business and personal financial goals? That’s the question of the episode today as Financial Strategist, Yasnay Montalvo, discusses how our minds influence our finances.
Yasnay talks about the Profit First methodology and how it affects our decision-making. Through sharing unique techniques to bring nonverbal communication to the surface, she identifies how you can evaluate your decisions when it comes to your finances. Your experiences are what drive you to make choices in your business, especially when it comes to money. It's a psychological journey, and Yasnay comes with the hard knowledge on how to navigate it.
Want to learn more? You can visit her website, Micro Business Catalyst, or sign up to take a free class with Yasnay on the Principles of Putting Profit First!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Studies have shown that nearly 50% of business owners do not take vacations. Do you fall into this category? Intentionally stepping away from the office is important for your mental health and can reduce stress. If you haven’t guessed by now, today’s episode of Denise’s Opinions is all about why business owners need to take the time to disconnect from their companies.
Fear of missing out (FOMO) and an ingrained hustle mentality can make it difficult to step away. Denise shares her suggestions on how to empower key employees so you can step away, what outsourcing certain administrative tasks looks like, and provides other resources on disconnecting from your business confidently.
As mentioned in this episode, here are a few resources that can help you navigate stepping away from your business:
https://nurturesmallbusiness.buzzsprout.com/900445/12462342-getting-down-and-dirty-in-your-business-operations-with-victoria-pelletier
https://dcavirtual.com/why-ignoring-a-vacation-will-cost-you-time-and-sales/
https://nurturesmallbusiness.buzzsprout.com/900445/12214008-does-your-team-allow-you-to-confidently-step-away-from-your-business
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
One of the top fears business owners have is selling. Will your products or services market well? Will you make enough money? We are here to put those fears to rest! In this episode, uncover the hidden key to increasing your sales as my guest discusses the importance of understanding human behavior and how it coincides with your company's sales.
Meet James Bond, a leading behavioral management specialist and today’s expert guest. James brings to the conversation a variety of knowledge on strategies for effective communication and presentation: including the power of asking questions, how to structure them, and how to make ideas stick. This episode is sure to be a helpful crash course on improving your company’s internal and external communication.
Interested in keeping the knowledge flowing? You can visit James's website to access more resources or schedule a time to chat with him.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Pay transparency laws are changing in some states. Is your state one of them? Get in the know and learn the importance of staying up to date on these laws in states where your company does business!
When dealing with pay transparency, it is a good idea to seek legal and HR advice, review compensation practices and employee handbooks, and communicate openly with employees about their compensation. Managers and leaders need to be prepared to have these conversations as well as be prepared to meet the legal requirements in the places we do business, which in some states also encompasses where we have employees or where we advertise for employees.
Get the resources you need for obtaining information on state laws and finding HR companies to review employee handbooks right here in this episode of Denise’s Opinions!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
If your business is booming and you’re looking to expand, chances are you’re going to need access to capital. So, how hard, or easy, is it for a business owner to obtain money and resources when growing their business? My guest today is here to answer this BIG question!
Meet Mark Ritter, the CEO of MBFS, a credit union organization that specializes in providing loan services to credit unions, so they can provide crucial loans to people in their community. To say the least, Mark is the man when it comes to better understanding loans. Take a look inside the world of business assets as we discuss what you need to have in place to get approved for loans, best practices when it comes to handling your money, the ins and outs of credit unions, and how to become a member of one. We also delve into the misconception that credit unions only provide consumer-based services, how they have evolved to offer business loans, and our personal philosophy and commitment to helping small businesses grow!
Did this episode spark your attention? You can learn more about Mark or loans and credit unions by going to his website!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Change is inevitable. But does it start with your organization or the people within it? With 70% of initiatives failing due to resistance from employees, organizational change must begin with preparing your team for change. My guest today is here to help better equip you to lead your team through organizational change!
Brian Gorman, of Transforming Lives.Coach, joins me to discuss the need for grieving and letting go during change, as well as the personal changes that can come with it. He shares models for building trust, communication methods, the importance of adjusting perception during change, and much more!
Gorman says, “Knowing these universal patterns of how people respond to change won’t make you immune to the impact of change; however, it will increase the likelihood of successfully navigating it.”
Ready to start putting change into action? Learn more about Brian by connecting with him on LinkedIn or Twitter.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As your business grows, areas of your business must evolve with it. So, it’s important to reevaluate key areas of your business to ensure they still align with your business’s goals. But what exactly are you supposed to look at? In this episode of Denise’s Opinions, Denise unboxes her take on just that by breaking down the components of cross-functional brand alignment.
The conversation doesn’t stop after the episode ends either. Denise wants to hear what you have to say! Reach out to her at pr@dcavirtual.com to set up a virtual coffee meeting and share your growth story, challenges, and successes.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Your customer service is the face and voice of your business. It has the power to make or break your clients’ experience. My guest today is an expert when it comes to properly training and empowering front-facing employees to handle customer inquiries and complaints.
Beverly Hathorn, owner of Strategic HR Consultants , is a customer satisfaction guru with over 25 years of experience managing and developing teams. She looks at company culture, team collaboration, communication, and unity to spot opportunities for improvement to make a better journey for her clients.
Join the conversation to learn about the importance of improving client-relation processes, how to create a customer-centric organization, and the different methods for measuring customer satisfaction, including the Net Promoter Score and the Customer Effort Score.
If you liked what you heard in this episode, consider reaching out to Beverly!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Nobody likes to hear the words downsizing or layoff when it pertains to business. As we all know, though, stuff happens. So, how do you handle it when it does? There may not be a definite answer to this question, but there are experienced opinions. And this episode is full of them!
Denise opens up about her past encounters with internal business restructuring, the anxiety that those what ifs can cause, practical recommendations on how businesses can address tough situations, and the importance of transparency and inclusion when laying off positions.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Victoria Pelletier, nicknamed the Turnaround Queen due to her tenaciousness when parachuting into distressed markets or business. She has a passion for building strong leadership teams that foster company culture. Her process shows leadership teams how to attract and retain talent, create a strong employee value proposition, be clear with employees about what success looks like, measure performance holistically, and build trust with direct reports.
Victoria’s experiences span 20 years and include operations, mergers and acquisitions, and organizational turnarounds. Learn how Victoria overcame Imposter Syndrome early on in her career. This podcast touches on so many topics that are at the heart of small business: DEI, risk mitigation, shared service models, and how all this drives the bottom line.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Do you use artificial intelligence (AI) in your business? Should you be using it? Will Al replace our need for human positions in the workplace? In this episode, Denise paves the way to an open, question-evoking conversation on the history of Al and its many capabilities.
Al is a technology component built to think like we think, but how does it work? Denise shares her opinions and research on ChatGPT, using Al for hiring processes, and the effects of Al on human positions in the workplace, and more!
Keep the conversation going by emailing Denise at pr@dcavirtual.com with how you are using Al technology in your business!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) was created in 1953 by President Eisenhower and has not been reauthorized since 2000. Congress is currently considering reauthorizing the SBA. My guests today provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes pass on what modernizations to the SBA might look like and the importance of small business owners having a voice in Washington!
Janetta King, Regional Director for GS 10,000 Small Businesses Voices, and Dane Stangler, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Bipartisan Policy Center, have formed a partnership centered around policy research recommendations for small business owners. Learn about capital resources you may not have even known were at your disposal, how these developments pertain to you as a small business owner, legislation related to retirement security and medical leave, and small business advocacy!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Want to be able to step away from your business without feeling like it will implode? I know I do!
As a small business owner, it can be challenging to implement a healthy work-life balance. The key is to build a strong team and empower them to step into their greatness. Learn the inner workings of inspired leadership and how to put processes in place that set your business up to thrive, even if you aren’t there.
Kerry-Ann Powell, the founder of Trafalgar Strategies, is an expert at solidifying the life you want to live as it relates to your business. She is also the author of “The 8 True Culprits Causing Chaos in Your Business” which you can download for free at nobusinesschaos.com
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
We all know you can’t build a car while driving it, but you can rebuild your business while running it. Does your business lack consistency? Do you feel stuck? Or maybe you need help restructuring your role so that things don’t fall apart when you’re not around? Today’s guest is an expert when it comes to shaking up the old way of doing things in order to build your business to be scalable and sellable!
Tyler Horsley is the owner of Nuclear Networking, a business growth agency that reached the top 5% on the INC 5000 list. In this episode, he spills a few ingredients from his secret recipe for nurturing businesses to reach incredible selling points.
To learn more about Tyler and his recipe to sell, get your FREE copy of his book, Sell at First Sight. You can also email him or find him on LinkedIn.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Ever dreamed of writing your own book, but the responsibilities of everyday life seem to make that dream impossible? Or maybe you like to read, but never actually finish a book because something always seems to interrupt? Yeah, me too. Today’s guest has a solution to this literature problem!
Mike Capuzzi, a nonfiction book coach and publisher for business owners, shares how you can extract important nuggets of information to create engaging, concise content that doesn't take weeks to read. He calls these types of books SHOOKS (short books). Designed to be read cover to cover in just one hour, you could turn your reading or publishing dreams into reality this year!
Mike is the author of 15 books, including two international Amazon # 1 Best Sellers. He is also the host of The Author Factor Podcast.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
It is all about the money in this episode. Do you have a financial guide or someone in your corner? Today’s guest, Rylan Kimler of Net Profit CFO, is the ultimate behind-the-scenes guy when it comes to backing your company’s finances. He makes cents of everything from balance statements to EBITDA to profit and loss. This chat is sure to spark your interest... literally!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
It is out with the old for our year-end Nurture Small Business final podcast episode. Deanne Duncan and Samantha Robbins, our fearless leaders here at DCA Virtual Business Support, join me as we chat about what we’ve learned from 2022. There were many lessons that we hope you also find valuable. Culture shifts, personal growth from adversity, and growing pains retaining our remote team. We’ll tell you about the survey we developed that totally revamped our New Hire Orientation process to create more stability.
The duo shared their favorite podcast episodes. Both centered around mental health and positivity. You can check those out below.
Maintaining Mental Health as an Entrepreneur
Rewire Your Brain for Positivity
They also revealed their favorite clients. There are so many; we didn’t get to talk about ALL of them. So, we’ll give them all a shout-out below.
Caja Holdings
Cooley Creative
Ms. Fit One
Next Key Services
Varkrz
Favorite Daughter
Go Beyond SEO
Meg Seitz
StoryStruck Marketing
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Does your sales team have the autonomy and skill to identify your ideal client? And once identified, are they zeroing in on those ideal customers rather than spending time doing less profitable activities? Today’s guest, Patrick Kagan of PK Solutions Group, puts forward the concept that your sales improve with proper alignment.
Aligning actions with your vision can improve your sales trajectory by 10%. That is significant for any small business. Not sure how? Listen in to learn more about how to identify the unique metrics for your business. Find out how to dig through the layers and ask questions that clear away the clutter that keeps your business focused on the wrong KPIs so you can, finally, land on the correct KPIs to motivate your sales team.
Patrick is also a podcast host of Sales Hindsights with Patrick Kagan and the author of Sell the Difference.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Small businesses experience a host of employee challenges: The Great Resignation, Quiet Quitting, and now, Quick Quitting. Leadership is left to battle a toxic work culture – sometimes created by the business, and sometimes inherited. How do we listen better to our employees and respond to issues? How do we create a work environment that employees want to be a part of?
Today’s guest, Stuart Berman, is the co-founder of RSA Risk Management and Investigations and ReZolveX.com. Their highly trained agents listen to and investigate employees’ concerns from a smart phone app. The process is fact-focused and gives actionable solutions to workplace issues. Listen to discover how they’re championing healthy workplace environments.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
A company culture, like a garden, is cultivated by everyone. With the proper setup, cultures can flourish and grow in the right direction. Gustavo Razzetti, CEO of Fearless Culture, shares his methods for laying the groundwork for a growth-oriented culture.
Start by throwing out those “stinky fish;” problems within the organization that only get more rotten the longer they are ignored. Next, don’t mistake busyness for productivity. A toxic culture can turn simple processes into long, stressful ordeals.
Learn more about healthy culture adjustments and check out Gustavo’s book Remote Not Distant. There, you’ll find even more insightful tips to help your hybrid remote team thrive.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Once trust is lost, it’s difficult to get it back. How can business owners foster trust and open communication with their teams? Shantera Chatman, President of PowHer Consulting, returns to the show to teach us how. Shantera works with businesses of all stripes to pinpoint cultural gaps and communication breakdowns. Her immersive experiences and guided listening sessions have helped strengthen teams and set them on the path to positive change.
Find out how empathetic listening can repair bridges in your organization.
Don’t forget to check out our last talk with Shantera on Women’s Equality Day!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Errors in shipping and fulfillment can seriously drain your business’s budget and your customers’ patience. That’s why Irina Poddubnaia created TrackMage, a software that automatically corrects many points of failure in the e-commerce experience. After operating a fulfillment center in China, Irina found that typical methods of supply chain management needed an update. Quality features like customer contact info verification and real-time tracking are taking the headache out of the customer experience. Find out how Irina developed TrackMage, how it’s reducing the impact of failed deliveries, and how to get your e-commerce business off the ground.
Be sure to check out Irina’s free ebook that will show you how to increase your sales on any budget!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
When professional women inspire and uplift each other, they can accomplish incredible things. Tonia DeCosimo, President and Editor-in-Chief of P.O.W.E.R. Magazine, is dedicated to recognizing and empowering women in business. From celebs and icons to everyday working women, P.O.W.E.R. gives them a platform to network and share their achievements.
Tonia has interviewed some truly remarkable women, including stars like Susan Lucci, Gloria Gaynor, and Christie Brinkley! Hear about Tonia’s interview stories, along with her tips for connecting with celebrities.
The next awards gala will be held May 18th, 2023, in The Mansion at Oyster Bay. Women from countless industries will gather to celebrate and form new connections. To apply for the 2023 P.O.W.E.R. Icon Award, or nominate another woman entrepreneur, send Tonia an email!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Have you ever considered the labor, emissions, and cost of a package delivered to your doorstep? With the explosion of online shopping since the pandemic began, supply chain sustainability is a huge concern. CEO of Paccurate James Malley has made it his mission to optimize packing and reduce emissions from shipping. Paccurate is a digital solution to wasted packaging and shipping labor. Their software has saved acres of cardboard and millions of dollars in distribution costs. Listen to find out how their AI-driven software works and the impact it’s having on retail shipping.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Rarely do women deal with the monster that money is in their heads. What is the money monster? Listen as business consultant Olivia Jaras takes us through an exercise that uncovers your feelings about money. Until you start owning how you relate to money, you will have limited success with funding your business and approaching investors.
Olivia strongly recommends reaching out directly to those who could be an asset to your company and creating partnerships. Partnerships are more than just money; they’re also resources and connections. Rather than directly asking for funds, approach potential partners with your mission and values. Angel Investors are more likely to invest when your business supports a cause that resonates with them.
Tune in to learn more about how to talk to investors, connect with incubator programs, and obtain grants. Be sure to check out one of Olivia’s favorite books, Happy Money to start unravelling money anxiety.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
When you put your company mission first, it will shape every facet of your business. That’s how Ryan Margolin, CEO of Professional Hair Labs, grew his family business to the industry exemplar it is today. Pro Hair Labs began with two words in mind: consumer safety. This value made such a splash in the company that its ripples are still felt throughout the beauty industry. Their integrity has informed every business decision. Choosing to follow the strict EU manufacturing guidelines, even when distributing in the US, and taking swift action against counterfeiters being chief among them. Find out how Pro Hair Labs incorporates their mission all the way down to the marketing strategy.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President, Denise Cagan, has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder, Denise enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work-from-home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. With extensive experience in outsourcing solutions that provide administrative, creative, marketing, and website support, she is able to help other small businesses grow and thrive.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Let’s be honest: the state of the world can feel like a dumpster fire. The pressure entrepreneurs face to maintain a business, a family, and our own lives can build up to a mountain of stress. And when stress snowballs into illness, we can’t always afford that sick day. Ellen Leonard, stress management consultant, knows what that’s like. She’s developed the StressLess Method Ⓡ for business owners to take control of their mental health. Learn how to keep stress from spilling over, and how to help your team do the same.
Be sure to check out Ellen’s resources for dealing with burnout and bringing more positivity into your life.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
Hackers are finding more creative ways to hold your data hostage every day. To keep them at bay and protect your business, every team member needs to be in the know about your security plan. Denis O’Shea, founder of Mobile Mentor, sheds light on what dramatic changes in business tech could mean for you. Once central to security, passwords are phasing out in favor of multi-factor authentication and biometrics. As our tools and technology evolve, so do workers’ perceptions of data protection. Years of data show that personal privacy is one of the biggest concerns of many Gen Z workers. Meanwhile, company security is out of sight and out of mind for this generation. To get your entire team on board with security measures, it will take a new approach. Listen in to the ideas that Denis recommends.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
Are you ready to save hours on documentation? Ken Babcock is making it much easier for business owners to document procedures with Tango. His company has developed a browser extension that automatically records your process, step by step, so you don’t have to worry about the details. Inspired by his experience at Uber with quick growth and turnover, Ken cares deeply about making knowledge sharing simple. What are you waiting for? Listen now and cut down on time consuming procedures!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
Research shows that your mindset creates your reality. Did you know 90% of your thoughts are the same each day, and many can be negative? What if you could turn those thoughts into positive ones? Elizabeth Louis is a mental health therapist who teaches her clients positive psychology skills. She has healed from trauma and created a positive mindset for herself, and you can too. It all starts with changing the language of your thoughts and focusing on your goals.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
If you had two extra hours each day, how would you spend them? As business owners, it’s easy to get stuck working in your business instead of on it. Between last minute meetings, projects and errands, how do you make time for yourself? Blaine Oelkers, America’s only Chief Results Officer®️, is an expert in unlocking productivity and building great habits. With clever planning, some mental shortcuts, and a willingness to say no, you can start getting your time back.
Get a full recording of Blaine’s TEDx Talk, What You Think About, You Bring About, along with a transcript.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
As one of the top podcasters worldwide, Jeremy Ryan Slate has faced a rocky road to get where he is today. Rather than being discouraged by past hurdles, he took valuable lessons from each adventure.
Now, his show Create Your Life is listened to by millions! Sitting comfortably in the iTunes Top 100, Jeremy has attributed his success to smart social media marketing. He shares some hard-won knowledge with us that has helped him promote both his show and his PR firm, Command Your Brand. Finding your niche, tailoring your content to different platforms, and targeting ads to different audiences are just the tip of the iceberg.
After the show, be sure to give his favorite book a read; So Good They Can’t Ignore You.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
Editors can turn an author’s vision into a masterpiece. But sometimes, it takes the right kind of editor to understand the author’s intent. That’s why CaTyra Polland specializes in editing the works of Black writers. Every author she works with gets the care and attention their story deserves. To CaTyra, her work is a service to the Black community, elevating their voices and experiences.
Catyra’s podcast Editor Knows Best is filled with writing tips and interviews with accomplished authors. Give it a listen!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
There is an art to being memorable when you speak. Having the right conversation can create lasting relationships with clients. This week, become a memorable speaker with LeeAnn Shattuck, aka The Car Chick. We discuss her history in podcasting and radio, racing and selling cars, and how improv helps businesses. Speaking doesn’t just improve your self-esteem, but also builds your business’s trust factor. We can all learn to speak more confidently and listen more intently.
For all things buying, selling, and driving cars, check out LeeAnn’s podcast The Straight Shift!
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
On August 26th at noon, join me in celebrating Women’s Equality Day as I explore the topics of allyship, mentorship, and empowerment for women with guest Shantera Chatman.
Register and Learn More
You don’t necessarily need a five year plan for business expansion. As we’ll learn this week, you might not need a plan at all! Matt Davis, the founder of Davis Business Law, rolled up his sleeves to tackle unexpected challenges in expanding his firm. The once fledgling law firm is now well on its way to meeting the goal of 30 locations by 2030. His hands-on approach and careful attention to metrics helped cultivate his growth plan which started as no plan at all. By dealing with business vulnerabilities as they come, they stay in the zone of opportunity.
It’s said that experience is the best teacher. Matt has plenty of experience in business expansion to share. Don’t forget to check out his book, The Art of Preventing Stupid, to learn how to avoid common business mistakes. Also keep an eye out for its upcoming successor, The Strong Protected Business.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
Your body is your temple; treat it as such! Sedentary environments and chaotic eating schedules can wreak havoc on a person’s body. This week, rediscover wellness with us and Elizabeth Colen, owner of MsFitOne. We discuss total wellness, her personal fitness journey, and strategies to recharge your health. As Elizabeth always says, if you’re not taking care of your body, you’re not taking care of your business. Learn how you can beat bad habits and make better choices for your health.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
The 2020 market crash is still fresh in our minds. Many business owners want to plan for the worst-case scenario, but they are also hoping for something better. Inspired by Big Debt Crises by Ray Dalio, Colin Bowman uses data from past recessions to advise today’s businesses. Colin is a business advisor with Cultivate Advisors who has advised businesses in over 28 industries, including ones on the Inc 500 Fastest Growing Businesses list. He joins us this week to share some of his research and inspire us in a time of uncertain economy and record inflation. With the right balance of defensive and offensive business strategies, you can survive what comes next.
To learn more about the statistics behind these strategies, visit the National Bureau of Economic Research.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan
In the new media landscape, podcasting has become the name of the game, and many people are playing it in different ways and at different levels. As a business owner or creator, it can be difficult to break into the podcasting space. How do you take the first step as a podcaster? Corinna Bellizzi, host of Care More Be Better and creator of The Mediacasters has in depth experience with all things podcasting, and wants to help you be competitive, learn to podcast better, or even just get started. Whether you are hosting or being a guest on a podcast, Corinna has great tips on how to network, hone your skills, be flexible, and increase the all-around impact of your podcast experience.
Don’t forget to check out The Mediacasters’ latest project, PodTease! They showcase all kinds of indie podcasts by highlighting their best content just for you.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Trust is a two way street. In business, how do you foster trust between leaders and team members? This week we’re joined by Liz Cortes, cofounder of RebelFish, to share horror stories of broken trust. Missing paychecks, steamrolled boundaries, and unfulfilled promises add up to unstable working relationships. But it’s not all doom and gloom; we also dive into ways to strengthen the trust in your team. Much like a personal relationship, it’s all about communication and setting boundaries.
Be sure to keep up with Liz’s work after the show! She plans to launch a podcast for people who work with their families and spouses.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As the market landscape continues to evolve, flexible leaders stay afloat. Sarah Miller, CEO of Axis Entertainment, has firsthand experience navigating rapidly changing business plans. As a strategic public relations company, Axis creates unique brand experiences for their clients’ best merits to shine through. Hear the story of how she created the Media Excellence Awards, started her own PR firm, and began the Media Maven Podcast. Throughout her career, Sarah has found ways to adapt to new technologies, ideas and opportunities as they came. As a leader in experiential marketing, she embraces what the future of the industry has to offer. As Sarah can attest, you can still be strategic even when your roadmap is unclear.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Your business needs help, but how do you attract the ideal candidate for the job? Jamie Van Cuyk, owner of Growing Your Team, knows the ins and outs of hiring the right team members. The key is knowing the ROI of each hire. Is this a role that will bring your business more revenue or bring you more sanity? How can your job posting attract the right candidates, and also deter the wrong ones? Why should you specialize your roles instead of looking for a jack of all trades? Find the answers to all these questions and more in this week’s conversation.
Jamie is also the host of the podcast Growing Your Team. Her podcast is for small business owners seeking to grow their company with the help of new talent and skilled team members.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
As business owners and entrepreneurs, it can be easy to be obsessive about our work and forget to take care of ourselves and the other aspects of life. Join us and Colin McIntosh of Sheets and Giggles as we discuss steps you can take to optimize your mental health! Our work is important, but it should be viewed as a means to an end, not the desired outcome itself. We explore the importance of taking steps to improve and maintain your mental well-being, and how optimizing your mental health can make you a more effective business owner and entrepreneur.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Organizational change doesn't have to be a painful process. Bladen Group CEO and Change Management Advanced Practitioner Nikki Rogers explains how to navigate change management. Along with being the wonderful host of Women Thriving in Business, she’s an expert in organizational transformation. She takes a top-down approach to create change roadmaps for companies in transition. How do you navigate the hidden ripple effects of major upheavals like procedure adjustments and mergers? Who are the people with the most power to help guide your team? And most importantly: What books has Nikki been reading lately?
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Reels, highlights, and stories are all key features that Instagram offers. They’re also the most underutilized by businesses. Prithvi Madhukar, aka The Marketing Nomad, is here to show us how to work your Instagram profile! Show your audience a whole new side to your business by sharing behind the scenes posts. Capture their attention using short videos to showcase your product or service. Learn how to take advantage of these features, as well as how Prit sets goals and maintains a healthy mindset.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Every year, businesses around the world lose over $4 trillion to fraud. Without the right safeguards, it’s easy for fraud to slip between the cracks. GrowthForce President and CEO Stephen King help business owners spot opportunities to fix those cracks. Whether you run a multimillion-dollar enterprise or a fledgling nonprofit, separation of duties is a must. As Stephen puts it, the person who writes the checks should not be the same person who reconciles the bank account. Learn how to spot the red flags of business fraud.
About Your Host
DCA Virtual Business Support President Denise Cagan has been working with small businesses for over 20 years. She has served on the boards of professional organizations such as Business Leaders of Charlotte (BLOC) and the National Association of Women Business Owners Charlotte (NAWBO). Denise is also a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, which is a program for small businesses that links learning to action for growth-oriented entrepreneurs.
Denise is recognized as a facilitator, problem solver, and builder. She enjoys speaking to business groups about social media for small businesses and motivating remote and work from home (WFH) teams. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Quality Systems Management from James Madison University. She has extensive experience in helping small businesses grow through outsourcing solutions providing administrative, creative, marketing, and website support.
Connect with Denise
DCA Virtual Business Support website.
View and listen to Podcasts with Denise Cagan.
Every day, John and Mark X. Cronin show what people with differing abilities can do. Not only is he the co-founder of the world’s largest sock store, John’s Crazy Socks, but John also has Down Syndrome. He and his father, Mark, have created a business dedicated to spreading happiness. Their relationship-first approach to sales leaves their customers pleased; their business boasts over 29,000 five star reviews! With multiple charity partners and more than half of their colleagues having differing abilities, the Cronins are champions of equality.
If your business connects with the environment, it should connect with consumers, too. Corinna Bellizzi, host of Care More Be Better, has extensive experience with responsible brands. Her trade show experiential strategies have helped brands form emotional connections with consumers. Corinna’s newest venture, Örlö Nutrition, creates algae-based products that can heal the environment. Listen in to learn how any business can reduce their carbon footprint. With a few easy steps, your business can connect to both people and the planet.
Who you are is inseparable from what your business provides. Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate, knows this better than most. He tells the story of the human connections that helped him start his chocolate business. Shawn began with an advisory board of trusted acquaintances to fill in his knowledge gaps. Now, Askinosie Chocolate is recognized as one of the 25 Best Small Companies in America. His business shares profit with cocoa farmers and funds community projects around the world. To Shawn, social responsibility is part of his business’s DNA. Check out Shawn’s book Meaningful Work, as well as his TEDx Talk Find Your Calling Where It Hurts.
Visionaries can be a great source of creativity, but they can also clash with more practical-minded folks. How do you lead visionaries effectively? Dream Team Architect Veronica Romney shares her experience in team management and working with visionary clients. When your team visionary starts to brainstorm, don’t bring an umbrella. Take notes instead! With planning and organization, you can transform an overflowing well of ideas into an asset. Be sure to check out Veronica’s Rainmaker Residency! It’s a program that bolsters dynamic duos of visionary founders and strategic marketers to create business growth.
As society becomes more diverse, hearing from and working with many communities will only become more crucial for businesses. Julye Williams, founder of the Project 2043 Institute, has dedicated her career to promoting a healthy multiracial society. Her work helps businesses and organizations that want to become more inclusive and diverse in their operations. The key to diversity, equity and inclusion is curiosity. By asking questions and listening to multiple perspectives, we can build equitable foundations for businesses.
As a business owner, how do you demonstrate credibility in your industry? That’s Michael DeLon’s area of expertise. As president of Paperback Expert, he helps business owners tell their stories by publishing bestselling books. With a physical book showcasing your unique business journey and knowledge, you instantly leave an impression on prospects. Michael’s credibility marketing strategies have increased conversion rates not just for his business, but his clients’ as well. Learn how Michael came to start his business and visit his website for a free credibility assessment.
How can businesses avoid driving their employees to resign? Artemis Partnership managing partner Bob Wiesner has an answer. Rather than accepting every available opportunity, he recommends focusing on slam dunks. Those projects that highlight your business’s strengths, or clients who match your ideal demographic. By keeping your pipeline focused, your business wins more and your staff feels more motivated. By focusing on what your business does best, you create profits and a stable workforce.
Leslie Hassler, founder of Your Biz Rules, is back to discuss making the tight labor market and how to make your business attractive to candidates. The business-employee relationship is a two-way street. Learn how to sell your business’s value, culture, and future to potential hires. Tell your business’s story by living and breathing your mission and values. Finally, don’t underestimate the benefit of a strong orientation process. Did you know that most employees that have a new hire orientation go on to stay for more than three years? You can also grab a copy of 7 Steps to a Rockstar Team to propel you on in your recruiting process.
While passion may not pay the bills, it doesn’t have to be at odds with profit. Leslie Hassler joins us on the Nurture Small Business podcast with her unique Scaling Rich™ Method. She teaches us how to strategically manage business growth. Leslie outlines the steps to build sustainable business models and stop money leaks. With smart scaling strategies, the rewards benefit you and your team. Be sure to check out Leslie’s guide, 21 Ways to Quickly Fund Your Business Growth for more strategies.
Tune in next week to hear our discussion with Leslie on building teams in a tight labor market!
Improv isn’t just for comedy; it can help your business too! Join us and Cassandra Quinn, team development advisor and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program alum. We dive into Cassandra’s history with improv and theater, and how it has shaped her business journey. Corporate role play can be a useful tool for training and for practicing your sales skills. Learn how to use Cassandra’s methods to take the drama out of client conversations.
Have you ever walked away from a tough business conversation, and wished you could have handled it better? Today we’re joined by Jerry Fu, professional conflict resolution coach at Adapting Leaders. Jerry used to be very conflict averse himself, until he discovered a path to leadership through his pharmaceutical career.
How do you advocate for yourself in a difficult work situation? How do you begin a conversation with an employee who isn’t following procedure? With the right conflict resolution tools, you can maintain your boundaries and your professionalism. Developing assertiveness doesn’t happen overnight, so just remember Jerry’s favorite quote: “If you’re struggling to have courage, use curiosity instead.”
This week on Nurture Small Business, we’ve got a double feature! We’re joined by Shreya ‘Ninja By Night’ Banerjee and Paul ‘Skittles’ Counts, co-founders of Marketing Counts, to talk organic digital marketing. Learn how to develop a marketing strategy that doesn’t rely on vanity metrics or passing fads. Email lists, multi-platform strategies, and even TikTok videos may have more value than you realize. Take these knockout strategies and start building your business’s online presence.
In today’s digital landscape, ‘hacking’ isn’t the codebreaking you see in movies. It’s phishing messages, designed to deceive you into handing your passwords over. This week, we’re joined by Ross Feldman, CTO of Better Call IT. We talk about the importance of password managers and two-factor authentication in keeping your accounts safe. As a bonus, we learn about how your business can streamline its technology solutions. Did you know that Microsoft and Google offer software discounts for nonprofits?
If you want your business to succeed, adaptation is key. Bethany Meadows, president of Vertical Solutions Media, talks to us about how to adapt and stay relevant in today’s market landscape. Five year plans are out, and 90 day sprints are in. Bethany shares how she generates leads through low-cost affiliate relationships. As a home business owner and parent, she has insight into finding work-life balance as well. Finally, we reflect on some hard-won lessons in our business journeys. Adjusting to change, asking for help, and sticking to a business strategy can sometimes be easier said than done. Looking for ways to build your community and learn from fellow business owners? Check out VSM’s Time to Thrive membership program for training and resources.
This Senate bill may have some unintended consequences for small businesses, according to consultant Andrea Hill. Join us as we take a magnifying glass to S.2992. This bill proposes to level the playing field between large and small businesses. Worryingly for small business owners, it actually contains some serious pitfalls. Chief among them: access to data security, and competition with large online retailers. The broad wording of this bill could allow large companies to continue dominating the marketplace. Want your voice to be heard? Reach out to your local senators and let them know your concerns. Meanwhile, you can find more of Andrea’s thought-provoking work on Forbes.
Just like a fine wine and cheese pairing, a great business needs a great strategy to go with it. Angela Rakis, founder of Favorite Daughter, LLC, joins us to discuss creating memorable customer experiences in the food and hospitality industries. We talk about the retail distribution process and how a new food product graduates from the home kitchen to grocery store shelves. Tune in to learn about the process of place making; creating a unique space that fits both a brand and a local community. Most importantly, we share some favorite restaurants and hidden gems, like Eileen’s Cheesecake in NYC, Sidebar granola bars from Maine, and Shea Radiance: a shea butter beauty brand that promotes the economic empowerment of women in Nigeria.
Today’s workforce culture is all about freedom— freedom to work from home, to set boundaries, and to make your voice heard in the workplace. For employers, it can be challenging to hire and retain employees in a labor market that changes just as rapidly as new technology. In this episode, we sit down with Curt Tueffert of DXP Enterprises to talk about how workers’ expectations have shifted in the past few decades, and what employers need to do to hold onto their talent. What makes a workplace culture? How can business owners connect with their employees and make them feel appreciated? How can we expect worldwide working culture to change in the coming years?
Running a small business is no easy feat, but few industries pose as many challenges as the cannabis industry. Eric Robichaud, CEO of Green Goddess Supply, joins us to talk about his journey from software engineer, to digital marketer, to leader of a cannabis industry enterprise. Learn how Green Goddess Supply began as an Amazon-based experiment and grew into an independent manufacturer and wholesaler. Robichaud also shares some of the ups and downs of his experience working in cannabis, from the revenue to be found in the “green rush”, to the challenges of advertising on social media and finding a credit card processor.
Your expertise has more value than you may realize. Have you ever considered sharing your hard-won knowledge with up-and-coming peers in the form of a group coaching program? Chris Williams, the founder of Group Coach Nation, has unlocked a whole new market in leading high-ticket Masterminds that can fetch up to $10K per seat. He now teaches business owners to do the same from concept to filling the seats. Learn more about the structure of these masterminds, how Chris generates leads, and how monetizing your expertise can boost your revenue and change your business. Be sure to check out Chris’s YouTube Channel for a sampling of what Group Coach Nation has to offer.
Jeremy Streten has worked with over 5000 clients throughout his career and documented when they had success and when they faced pitfalls legally. He talks about those from start up to exit strategy with 13 distinct business lifecycles. This is all laid out in his book The Business Legal Lifecycle.
Jeremy shares how some businesses, not wanting to spend legal fees, lose large sums of money well beyond what they would have paid for legal counsel. That inactivity is comparable to the antiquated notion that legal services are a liability rather than an asset. By investing in legal services and advice, the proactiveness protects your business and saves future fees in potential litigation or disputes with things like client or employee agreements.
Listeners have an opportunity to take a 10-minute assessment that identifies where you are in your business lifecycle and your legal risks. This report can be taken to your attorney, and if you don’t have one, you can use the attorney referral tool on his website.
Joseph Wilkins is the founder of FunnySalesVideos.com. As habits shifted from television to online, Joseph discovered that sales videos that create attention-grabbing viral style content entertain viewers into making immediate purchases. He has had two decades of experience with video production, hundreds of millions of TV & online views, and hundreds of millions of dollars in tracked sales.
Joseph has developed 8 simple steps any business can follow to boost online sales. Listen to this podcast to learn the 8 steps that you can do to create your own entertaining video or download the 8 Simple to Follow Steps Guide at FunnySalesVideos.com. You will also learn the answer to Can Sales Videos Go Viral?
When it comes to workplace compliance issues, like sexual harassment or discrimination, we need to hear the human side. Listen to our discussion with Tim Mousseau about building a positive company culture. What makes a “toxic” workplace? What are red flags to watch out for? How can workplace leaders contribute to making employees feel comfortable and heard? We’ll also dive into topics like giving and receiving feedback, the drawbacks of an “open door” policy, and conducting exit interviews. Be sure to visit timmousseau.com for more information about Tim’s workshops for creating safe workplace cultures.
Got an amazing new idea that you can’t wait to put out into the world? You might want to slow down and think about how to protect your IP. Do you know the difference between patents, trademarks, and copyrights? Or how to keep from losing your trademark? We cover all these questions and more with Devin Miller, of Miller IP Law. He’ll be giving us three simple tools to protect a business’s IP and tips to avoid common IP mistakes. Take advantage of his free strategy session at strategymeeting.com.
Season 2 has happened to correspond with Year 2 of the Coronavirus pandemic, and what a year it has been! As business owners, we have had to assess and adjust our strategies more rapidly than ever before. Given what has been going on in the world, it comes as no surprise that sales and marketing have become hot-button topics. Listen to a compilation of some of the most insightful pieces of wisdom shared by our incredible guests this year and get ready to cover even more ground in Season 3.
In order to use the Swipe Up feature on Instagram, you need 10,000 followers. Meredith Kallaher joins us on today’s podcast dishing up all the goods. Listen and learn all about a strategy that allows swipe up without having 10,000 followers! Dig into Apple’s recent iOS updates and how they impact your marketing efforts plus what to do about it! And finally, those nasty little pixels, how to use them to your advantage with a targeting effort called a lookalike audience all on Instagram!
Dawn Verbrigghe, CEO of Jottful is our guest today. She talks about the 5 different growth engines: advertising, content marketing, virality, partnerships, and sales. Then gives amazing examples of each to show how you can leverage them. Her mission is about providing affordable solutions for small business websites, then connecting them with the resources they need to create powerful growth engines. You can also find Dawn on the Marketing Made Easy by Jottful Podcast that she hosts.
If you increase your website traffic by 26% and your conversion rate by 26%, you will effectively double your business! Join us as we chat with Michael “Buzz” Buzinsky from Buzzworthy Integrated Marketing. Focusing on these 3 benchmarks will get you there: increase traffic, convert more, and increase the revenue per client.
Buzz talks about how to increase traffic to your website with more than just digital marketing. He shares how to make your message clear and how to best articulate that on your website. Don’t miss this episode to learn about the Rule of 26, which is geared toward service-based businesses who want to double their revenue. You can also find Buzz at buzz@buzzworthy.biz.
Do you have broken links on your website? Is your website mobile-friendly? How is your user experience? Issues like these areas need to be addressed before you can make any headway with search engines.
From Jewelry Designer to SEO and SEM expert, Eric Seropyan, founder of ThisIsMySouthBay.com, joins us this episode to break down what steps you can take to optimize your website and get better search results. He discusses how to fill in keywords in WordPress and what it takes so that Google will rank your page.
Eric’s expertise is unique in that he specializes in both international and hyperlocal SEO. He helps small business owners make sense of searchability and marketing on the web. Visit his website for a free SEO and ranking report as well as book a free 15-minute consultation.
Many small business owners and solopreneurs are stuck in the “always hustling salesperson” trying to figure out how to get more referrals. But how do you consistently get referrals without asking? Stacey Brown Randall, the creator of 2 online signature programs – Growth by Referrals and Sticky Client Experience, joins our podcast today and shares how to make your business referrable to get referrals.
Stacey is the multiple award-winning author of Generating Business Referrals Without Asking, host of the Roadmap to Grow Your Business podcast, and national speaker. She talks about the importance of the client experience in any business and how it helps her grow her second business that is now generating over 100 referrals every year consistently. You don’t want to miss this episode!
Having a S.W.A.T. team show up on her lawn was a pivotal moment for Darcy Luoma, author, Master Certified Coach, and CEO of Darcy Luoma Coaching & Consulting. She brings her expertise to this week’s Nurture Small Business Podcast discussing how that moment led her to be ground zero for the Thoughtfully Fit® model. Darcy also discusses the 4 workplace toxins based on the Gottman Research Institute and the 3 core steps one must take to overcome obstacles and become a high-performing leader and team member. Then, she shares with us how to create Team Alliances, an important part of dealing with conflict and miscommunications in a small business.
For the past 23 years, Victoria Wieck has been sharing her jewelry designs with millions of viewers on HSN and Shop HQ during her own monthly shows. This business was created at a time when she had just $30 in her pocket.
Throughout her career, she’s had to invent ways to have her products consistently outperform her competition and thrive. Despite this, she has built her highly successful business following her passion for jewelry, without sacrificing her family life. In this podcast you will learn the value of grit, determination, hard work, and a bit of luck in building a successful business. If you have a passion you would like to turn into a business, listen to be inspired!
Victoria is also the author of Shattered Sky and the host of her very own podcast Million Dollar Hobbies!
Many entrepreneurs write books, but how do you know the timing is right, and how do you leverage that book as a business owner? Fabi Preslar, president and founder of SPARK Publications, joins our podcast today and talks about how to know when it is time. Her process includes something she calls Maturing Through the Manuscript.
Fabi is an award-winning entrepreneur as well as a mentor, both officially and unofficially, to other business owners. She talks about the value of mentorship and how it has shaped her life, ultimately leading to her first book, On Heaven’s Couch. Don’t miss this episode!
You can connect with Fabi on her website or any of her social media channels.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/fabipreslar/
https://www.facebook.com/SPARK.Publications
https://www.facebook.com/FabiPreslar/
https://www.instagram.com/fabipreslar/
https://www.instagram.com/sparkpubs/
Deborah Coviello is the Founder of Illumination Partners and the host of The Drop In CEO Podcast. Deborah lives by this mantra: Solve the business problem, then elevate the people. In this podcast, you will learn the benefits of investing in your personnel. Deb shares her experience with CEOs and the importance of partnership in solving issues within their organizations, thus returning them to their true north and a place of personal peace.
Deb is also an avid curler and a silver medalist in the sport. Even through curling she has experienced the importance of relationships with those on your team.
Alexis Gladstone is the founder of Intelead. Intelead designs strategies and programs to help clients develop current and next-generation leaders, increase the effectiveness of individuals in sales, and drive organizational change that delivers results. In this podcast we discuss how technology has impacted retention and promotion within companies, retaining female leadership, and her co-authored book, Pure Wealth: 26 Ways to Crazy Profitability.
Alexis can be found on LinkedIn and welcomes the opportunity to speak with budding female leaders.
As the founder and principal attorney at Ibekwe Law, PLLC, Iffy Ibekwe believes that every woman deserves to make decisions that affect her. A woman can accomplish these decisions with wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents for both personal and business
In this podcast, you’ll learn about why you need an Operating Agreement – even if you are a solo entrepreneur, how trusts work for business and personal, plus what other things you may need for business continuity. Iffy discusses buy / sell agreements as well as keyman insurance.
Iffy is also the board president for Be the Bridge, a national nonprofit dedicated to racial justice and reconciliation. With over 600 groups and 1600 individuals in online communities are changing lives. They focus on a collective conviction to raise cultural competency for racial reconciliation and unity for all ethnicities.
You can find Iffy on Instagram at @iffyibekweesq.
Phil Elmore is a novelist, journalist, editor, content creator, voice actor, and videographer based in New York. As the owner of Samurai Press, Phil has been a full-time technical and freelance writer for twenty-five years. His latest ventures, The Self Publishing Report and The Ghost Writing Report, are intended to help individuals and businesses understand the potential for books to promote their businesses. In this podcast, Phil shares how both fiction and non-fiction books can bring notoriety to your business and create intimate time with you, the author. If you’ve ever thought of authoring a book, listen now for inspiration!
Charles Read is a Certified Public Accountant, U.S Tax Court Practitioner, member of Internal Revenue Service Advisory Council, and the Founder of GetPayroll. In fiscal year 2019 there were $13 Billion in employment tax penalties of which 50% were abated. Charles shares his expertise on how to classify employees to avoid tax penalties as well as how to get those tax penalties abated. Don’t miss this episode of Nurture Small Business!
You can get a copy of his book - The Payroll Book – for FREE – at: https://thepayrollbook.com/. Simply add the promo code PODCAST.
Chuck Cooper of WhiteWater Consulting is not your average consultant. He helps business owners with providing the correct benefits packages that will appeal to a diverse workforce. He advises on how to make your plans attractive to the Baby Boomers as well as the Gen Z-ers. Join us in this podcast as we discuss how mental health has become a priority in benefits packages and how to appeal to cross-generational workforces.
In this conversation, Malcolm Dawes of DTA Worldwide states: “Leadership comes from humility rather than personal strength or power.” Malcolm is the most sought-after authority for people's performance and effectiveness. His expertise spans team development, leadership communication development, and emotional intelligence.
He is the author of Team Performance: Why Can’t We All Get Along. The book is 10 short chapters about the myths of management and focuses on how managers and teams can genuinely work better together. This book is for senior leaders that are responsible for high production within their team. You can request a FREE book on DTA Worldwide’s website.
Healthy people are what make your company healthy. There is a disconnect between what leaders want in their hires and what they hire for. Many fill a seat and hope the person sticks. Do you know what you need in an employee or how to cultivate an employee to become a leader? Mitch Gray explains what this means. He also goes into why you lose great employees and how to recognize the greatness in potential leaders.
Learn more about Mitch through his website.
Have you ever thought about patenting something? Join our expert, Russ Krajec, from Blue Iron as he discusses the ins and outs of obtaining a patent. From a Patentability Search to a Freedom to Operate (FTO) search, he shares the steps you need to take to start your patent journey and defines your investment.
We will then dig in a bit deeper and talk about Patent Portfolios, using patents to obtain loans, and insuring your patents. Russ is the author of Investing in Patents and firmly believes that IP can be used as a financial instrument. Find out how in this podcast!
There are 110 points to consider in your cybersecurity plan when working with the DoD. Vince Scott with Defense Cybersecurity Group is an expert on all of these. He has worked with big companies like Proctor and Gamble and PricewaterhouseCoopers. Now, he advises small business owners that work with the DoD. Vince has offered listeners of our show an hour free consult. Just email him at info@cybersecgru.com to arrange that time.
A growing business needs processes and systems. When is the right time for an Enterprise Resource System? Sam Gupta of ElevateIQ shares his expertise on ERP systems and what to look for as well as pitfalls.
Sam is also the host of WBSRocks podcast. His podcast takes a holistic and unique approach to crossing the chasm with business systems and technology. Special attention is given to manufacturing, construction, and retail industries.
Chris Denny is changing the game when it comes to attention to detail. Chris came up with the idea for Attention To Detail Solutions after having an employee who was technically strong and generally valuable but lacked attention to detail. As a result of this occurrence, he developed a system that can benefit businesses by reducing errors while improving accuracy and attention to detail.
Have you ever thought about building your business with recurring products or services? Join us as Chris Hervochon with Better Way CPA as he talks about the steps to discover what is needed to create your own recurring revenue model.
In an effort to create his own value-based model for accounting services, Chris created his own recurring model. With his learnings he now leads clients to do the same. You can download, for free, his eBook Data Driven Agency geared toward marketing agencies.
Referenced in this podcast is Season 1: Legal Poverty that discusses the switch from an hourly model to value-based in the legal industry.
Being in business with your significant other includes the good, the bad, and the ugly, and not all couples in business thrive from working together. Today’s guests, Oscar and Kiya Frazier, have successfully navigated building a business together while maintaining a healthy relationship. Together they founded KO Thought Leaders in order to help couples in business develop structures and strategies that nurture the balance between business and home.
The Fraziers are multi-entrepreneurs in diverse spaces such as trucking, restaurant, global crisis, consulting for business, and couplepreneurs. This podcast tells their story of losing everything. Their comeback as entrepreneurs, and setting boundaries along the way. To reach Oscar & Kiya visit their website or text the word BUSINESS to 6786721444.
Did you know that you can apply for business credit without it being attached to your personal credit? Today’s episode of Nurture Small Business features Stephen Wible from Credit Suite to tell you how! He shares great insight on what a small business needs and how creditors look at your business credit file. If you’re still using Gmail as your business email address, you will want to listen to this!
From business checking accounts to what the underwriters look for in your address. Plus, whether you show up or not in the two databases: 411 database and Dun & Bradstreet. Learn how to plan now so you can borrow when you need a loan, line of credit, or a credit card.
Courtney DeRonde with TDP CPAs and Advisors talks to us about how digging into your metrics and KPIs can really shift a business. Don’t believe it? This podcast outlines how they saved a client hundreds of thousands of dollars by digging into their metrics.
To avoid all the blind spots we discussed on the show, you can download a free copy of 5 Blind Spots as Businesses Grow eBook here.
Have you ever thought about building your business through podcasts? Alex Sanfillipo loves serving others whether in his community or in his business. His businesses are all about bringing that goodness to small businesses. As founder of both PodMatch and Creating a Brand, Alex strives to connect and elevate other business owners.
When asked what inspired him to create PodMatch, he responded by saying that he knew how hard it was to find guests and for guests to find great podcasts. And, he has some other great things right around the corner to aid podcasters and make that start-up easier. Keep a lookout for Podcast SOP from Alex!
From a career in Fortune 500 Companies, Brian Johnson with Main and Johnson, now coaches and consults small and medium-sized businesses. In this interview, he breaks down when you should use a coach, consultant, or advisor in the various stages of the business cycle.
Getting confused about the buyer journey, personas, unique value propositions and unique selling propositions? No worries, Monique Idemudia with Dragon Digital Marketing breaks it down to data on today’s podcast. Drive more sales by really knowing who your customers are.
Not only is Breanna Gunn an expert balancer of work, clients, and kids, she is a wealth of knowledge. From popular new networking platforms such as Lunchclub to Clubhouse, she gives us the low-down on how to leverage these platforms in building our business. Learn how Breanna shares her expertise of writing copy on Clubhouse weekly.
In fact, Brea is so generous with her knowledge she has developed a free challenge program, as well as an incubator program where she teaches business owners how to grow their business quickly with proven strategies. Tune into this podcast to learn more about her strategy and pick up free nuggets you can implement now.
Do you ever get a report with a bunch of numbers and wonder, now what? Jack Tompkins of Pineapple Consulting Firm is the go-to-guy for gaining clarity. If you’re trying to compile financial, marketing and operations data to get a big picture of your company, you’ll want to listen to this podcast now.
Being a natural disruptor, Carol Sanford, has challenged business owners to remove the labels. This applies to their team and their customers. Hear why this approach builds a culture that fosters initiative and makes your company grow!
Growing your business becomes easier with automation. Most people think just sales and CRMs, but you can accomplish so much more when it is applied to other areas of your organization. Our guest Rich Schnitzel explains how that effort translates into a positive ROI and better workflow.
After interviewing happy people, Roger Hall, author of Staying Happy Being Productive, identified 10 key habits that were a common theme in all of these people. Listen and learn about how your personal habits and happiness can impact your business habits and happiness from sales to hiring.
Myoshia Boykin-Anderson truly represents the American Dream. In 1998, with no savings and no college degree, Myoshia got her first taste of entrepreneurship. Then went on to become is the CEO of one of the leading IT Consulting companies in the country, AndTech Solutions, LLC. What makes this even more impressive is that Myoshia has done this with grit and hard work as a self-made businesswoman.
Ari Galper, author and creator of Unlock the Game debunks the top-selling myths like ‘it’s a numbers game.’ Ari’s method is around developing trust. Listen to today’s podcast to learn how and what to say to build trust and stop losing sales at “Hello.”
Most entrepreneurs think of venture capital only when they are trying to raise money for their firm. VCs also buy companies, and before you consider selling, you need to understand their positioning. Maceo Jourdan dishes on what he calls the VC mafia!
Have you ever written a press release that received no attention? Today’s guest, Mickey Kennedy, owner of eReleases will tell you how to get local coverage for free. He also covers what is the best content to use to get your press releases picked up by journalists. It’s not what we’ve been taught as business owners!
Busting Sales Funnels myths is what Nikki Nash does best. If you don’t have a clue where your prospects are on the Empathy Map, your funnel doesn’t matter. Join us as the owner of Market Your Genius and author of the book by the same name breaks it down.
Non-profits often rely on donations, grants, and events to fund activities. This creates a fluctuating model. Imagine a model with sustainable revenue which also translates to sustainable programming! Daniel Parkins, an expert non-profit consultant, shares how this can be possible.
It is better to have a lawyer and never need them than to not have one when you do. A proactive plan to protect your small business from legal woes starts with comprehensive agreements and a review of liability. In the end, it can save you from costly situations. Today Noel Bagwell joins us to answer our audiences' legal questions about their businesses and non-profits.
Whether you desire to speak from a stage or motivate your team, speaking confidently impacts everyone including small business owners. There are some key tenets to speaking without fear. Mike Acker shares the 7 strategies from his book Speak with No Fear in this week’s podcast.
Gain clarity on what a solid foundation might look like by assessing the four major sections of your business. Join us as Jeff Chastain, of Admentus inc, explains how business owners can establish a long-term cadence for predictable and stable growth.
SaaS to manage human capital? That seems counter-intuitive, however, EddyHR has done just that. Join us as co-owner Jordan Boorgaard dives into this technology designed for small to medium-sized businesses.
Every business owner should track 5-7 metrics. Finding the right metrics for your business and interpreting the data may not come naturally. In steps John Briggs with Incite Tax & Accounting. His motto: “What gets measured gets done.” Join us for this week’s podcast with John.
Having run digital campaigns for high-profile clients such as HSN, Wendy Williams, Eastbay, Aer Lingus, and SkyMall, Ana Raynes, owner of Simplified Impact, has the goods on what it takes to win in the digital marketing arena. Join us on our most recent podcast as Ana discusses why the digital space is so important for B2B marketing.
Doing the next right thing came naturally to Reid | Rodell’s Chief Visionary Officer, Charlotte Reid. Her event company was heavily impacted by the pandemic. That did not stop her from providing the most amazing level of customer service that, in-turn created a steadfast brand loyalty. Listen to Charlotte’s story on this podcast of Event Planning With or Without Covid.
Technology effectiveness has an inverse relationship to the budget allocated. Think of it this way: when your technology is well-suited to your goals, you company becomes more productive, less vulnerable with risk, and capacity improves. Join us as Matt Rosenthal with Mind Core explains.
The average prospecting closing rate across industries is 20 – 25%. Find out how you can create more unique conversations in which you can share your story. Chad Cuttino from Piedmont Prospecting shares his expertise in our most recent podcast.
After years of being on the road with 20% of his time living in a Marriott hotel, Tim Kubiak tired of building other people’s companies to success. They cashed out and became millionaires, but he didn’t! At this point in his life, he decided to shift his focus to teaching small business owners how to create their own Mercenary Sales Management team.
Do you understand how Covid relief funds will affect your company’s taxes? Carolina Aponte of Caja Holdings talks to us about how to strategically plan your business’s finances and get through this tax season unscathed.
Do you know what it takes to have Relentless Customer Service? The kind that makes your customers feel like a Rock Star and also builds a tremendous amount of loyalty. Join us with Dr. Kelly Henry who discusses how you can achieve this.
When the beginning of the pandemic hit, Cory Harris and Julie Traxler of SB PACE began reaching out to their friends and family who owned businesses to see how they were faring. They learned much. One thing stood out, the foundation of the business was a key factor in how well these businesses were able to either pivot or tighten their belts for survival. Join us to hear their insights what a solid business foundation looks like.
There is no denying that podcasting has become a popular trend. Starting a podcast may be a great way to get your business ideas out there. How hard is it to produce and monetize your podcast? Paula Okonneh, host of Chatting with the Experts, tells us everything you need to know about producing a podcast.
Growing and thriving businesses sometimes get the opportunities to work with bigger commercial fish. These bigger companies have a lot of resources and are experts in contract negotiation. How can small business negotiate better commercial deals with their big clients? Mike Lander, Procurement Director of Piscari, gives his insight on strategically planning your negotiations before you even sit at the table.
Business owners are pulled in so many directions, add a global pandemic and it multiplies exponentially. The goal remains the same however: Growth. Sustainable business growth is no easy feat. What do you prioritize and where do you start? Our guest, Tony Guarnaccia, of Small Steps Grow Profits breaks it down to 6 strategic steps, turning adversity into opportunities.
Partnerships and alliances are key to business growth. Working with complementary partners can help you develop more attractive offerings and strengthen credibility in your market. How do you find these connections? Jennifer Didier of Directions Training has this strategy down to a science and gives us the scoop.
There’s no denying that social media is a big part of marketing strategies for B2B and B2C businesses alike. Why not use it for high quality leads with referrals? Become unforgettable in your network and turn your social media into a referral powerhouse. Shaily Hakimian of Your Social Media Sherpa joins us to talk about turning your social media into a referral generator.
Being in a leadership position doesn’t always mean a leader is at the helm. If we cannot lead ourselves, how can we lead others? Leadership requires us to be authentic and accountable while learning to express gratitude. On today’s episode, Tom Byrne of the podcast Lead, Grow, Innovate joins us to share that special twist of an effective leader.
The clarity received from 2020 is going to set us up for planning and adapting in 2021. Krishna Mohan, of Genius Visionary, fleshes out a realistic plan that will help business owners understand their baseline, acknowledge the unusual symptoms of 2020, and prepare an actionable business plan for 2021. Tune in to our latest podcast to help your business adapt in the new year.
Owning a business with global reach doesn’t need a conventional start. Edgar Sierra shares his story of ‘jack of all trades, master of none’ approach to education, self-development, and community over competition mindset. Edgar is now an International Photographer and owner of E. Sierra Media. Check out our latest podcast to hear his full story.
Ten million businesses, annually, have a significant legal event yet no legal representation. This is legal poverty. Noel Bagwell of ExecutiveLP® joins us this week to discuss legal poverty as well as how to prevent it.
Is fear holding you back? Working through fear is an intimate journey that applies to both our personal and professional lives. Seeking approval, stressful environments, and avoiding assertiveness can inhibit your growth. On today’s podcast, we get candid with Christina Rivera of Savvy Broadcasting about facing our fears and having reality checks that will spur business growth!
Business growth, employee retention, and operating efficiencies are ever evolving. At times, you must embrace change and be the disruptor of the status quo to achieve your goals. This week, we welcome Jamie Dalferes, of Change Reaction, who partners with companies to design actionable goals that create sustainable and engaging work environments, to today’s podcast.
Attracting the clients you love requires understanding your value, worth, and market! Our guest, Trish Saemann of GoBeyond SEO and True North, brings her wisdom and insight to the table in this podcast. Learn how marketing, message, mindset, medium, and measurement are key to building your stable of Unicorn clients.
While COVID – 19 has certainly brought new challenges to businesses across the country, many business owners are beginning to look on the bright side to try and see the positive outcomes that have come with this pandemic. Today we talk to Mindy Godding of Abundance Organization, an A+ accredited organizing company, on the unforeseen trials and triumphs during this time.
Zoom, Blue Jeans, Teams, Stream Yard, Chime, Click Meeting, Easy Webinar! Too many choices. How do you know which is the right video conferencing app for the right situation? Our guest, Bridget B Sullivan, is the owner and producer for Creative Canvas Productions, an animation, broadcast design, and event management company. Listen to her advice on this podcast!
No Touch Technology has been around for a while. Speech recognition, facial recognition, and digital finance solutions weren’t specifically created to address concerns with Covid-19. However, as many business owners rethinking their workspace, could this be the answer many are looking for? In this podcast, we’re discussing the future of No Touch Technology and practical applications for your small business. CTO of Rethink Innovations, Eric Christoffersen joins us to share the current trends of and how businesses are implementing touchless technology.
In the 3rd episode of our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Series, we tackle YOUR questions. Did you know that most business owners begin this process with a high level of uncertainty and some fear? Rico Rice from Rice Education Consultants, LLC, brings light to this and encourages business owners to start taking those steps by bringing clarity to your questions.
What can you do as a leader to create and maintain a diverse workforce within your company? Rico Rice from Rice Education Consultants, LLC, joins us again and shares the Five P’s Framework that his company uses to help others along that path - Policy, Programs, Practices, Promotion, and People. Learn how they can establish and reinforce diversity, equity, and inclusion in your business.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion are more than just buzzwords. They are ways to strategically retain talent and increase cash flow within your business. Expert consultant, Rico Rice from Rice Education Consultants, LLC, joins us to talk about the benefits of diversity, equity and inclusion the workplace. Listen all the way to the end to hear how you can be a part of this conversation.
How much should a small business invest in a cybersecurity system, and is your cloud-based program really backed-up? These are just two of the questions we answer in our latest podcast. In this episode, Matthew Galimi, Founder and President of Divergent IT, shares what you need, the basics on cybersecurity, and how to maintain your cybersecurity system and protocols.
Taking your business international can be a daunting task, but not if you have the right plan in place. Language experts can help you align your multilingual communications with your company strategy making that jump to selling globally faster and seamless. Our guest today is Wendy Pease of Rapport International. She will be sharing her insights from her years of international marketing and business development.
If you’ve been struggling to complete your contracts because of this pandemic, listen up! Our podcast guest, Kelly Jesson with Jesson & Rains, PLL discusses what may, or may not, be an exception to fulfilling your contract, what is a force majeure clause and will this adequately cover you.
Who cleans your workplace and how they clean makes a difference now that Covid-19 had entered our lives. In fact, cleaning is not enough – you must disinfect! Join us for our 4th and final safety episode that covers how to safely return to work for both your team and your customers. Our guest, Darcy Cook of Safety Trainers gives actionable steps on how to handle disinfecting as well as if you have a worker who starts showing symptoms.
A lot has changed with regulations related to Covid-19 and the safety of your workforce. Do you know what is required for documentation if your policy is to take employee temperatures as a condition of them working? The signage for the exterior and interior of your building relating to new rules also needs to be planned out. It may be difficult to know where to start. Join us while guest, Darcy Cook of Safety Trainers shares what you will need as a business owner in each of these areas.
We’re all looking for OSHA approved PPE for our employees, right? WRONG! OSHA does not approve PPE and choosing the wrong PPE can cause other hazards or requirements for employers. Learn how to find the right equipment for your industry as you survive Covid-19 with our guest Darcy Cook from Safety Trainers.
Have you read up the new OSHA and CDC safety regulations that have recently come into effect? Still not sure what to do? Understanding how these regulations affect your business can be difficult. In this episode, our guest Darcy Cook of Safety Trainers makes sense of those regulations and gives you actionable steps for your business as it survives COVID19.
Have you ever struggled with the question: “What do you do?” Having a simplified story is not just marketing language, but it can also help you simplify how you introduce your business. Listen to our podcast with expert Jordan Stevens from Empathagy as he discusses how to simplify your brand’s story as well as how and when to expand. You’ll also gain access to the Right Size Your Story resource from Empathagy.
A family operated restaurant business, Flat Waves Food Shack manages to keep all of their employees working during the pandemic. Learn how survival for Will Burgess translates to feeding the community and making rapid, agile changes to adapt and survive.
What is your communication strategy right now? Is it different during crisis? Meghan Lynch, CEO of Six Points Creative chats with us about how you can alter your communications to still stay at the top of mind during challenging times. As the CEO of a brand strategy agency, she has served as an expert advisor to global and national brands spanning fast-casual restaurant chains to industrial manufacturers.
If you're like most business owners, you're wondering how all of this will shake out when life gets back to normal. Maybe you're even wondering what your normal will look like. I know I am. Join us in this podcast to hear from Billy Amberg, one of the youngest professionals to attain the rank of Managing Director at a top 50 investment bank in the U.S., as he talks about strategies for your business. Your best strategy might be to band together with your supply chain partners and make a stronger mega-company, or your best strategy may be bankruptcy. This, plus SBA loans in this candid discussion about what the coronavirus has caused amongst businesses.
The Family First Coronavirus Response Act takes full effect on April 1st, 2020. What does this law mean for small businesses? Is there any relief for micro-businesses? Does it apply to businesses that are currently subject to laws such as FMLA?
Find out the answers to all these questions by joining Deanna Bumgardner with Employers Advantage LLC in this podcast.