Beyond Survival: The Small Business Guide to Predictable Growth

Knack 4 Business

Many small businesses struggle to scale predictably—and Al Guvener lays out exactly how to make growth sustainable.

In this episode, host Bernie Franzgrote (@BernieFranzgrote) and co‑host Wayne Pratt (@Wayne Pratt) chat with Al Guvener from Twelve 7 Ventures, exploring how to move from startup to scale-up with stability and intention.

🧭 Summary

Al dives into the key building blocks of sustainable growth:

• Creating a predictable revenue model
• Implementing value-based pricing
• Using digital marketing to fuel growth
• Launching loyalty programs that retain customers
• Adopting a CRM to systemize sales & service
• Exploring flexible funding like revenue-based financing
• Keeping company culture intact during scaling
• Adding a Chief Revenue Officer role when needed
• Ensuring customer satisfaction to maximize retention

They wrap up with tactical tips for entrepreneurs at every stage—early founders to established SMB owners—on staying agile when markets and conditions shift quickly.

🔑 Key Topics Covered

• Differences between startup and scale-up phases
• Building and forecasting predictable revenue
• Value-based vs cost-plus pricing
• Digital marketing tools and strategies
• Designing loyalty programs that boost repeat sales
• Choosing and deploying a CRM for growth
• Funding options beyond VC—revenue-based financing
• Culture management during rapid expansion
• The value of a Chief Revenue Officer
• Practical scaling advice across business stages

🎯 Guest Info & Resources

Al Guvener — Phone: [phone] · Email: [email protected]

• Website: twelve7ventures.ca
• LinkedIn: Al Guvener

🏆 Acknowledgements

Special thanks to:

• Carl Richards from Podcast Solutions Made Simple (podcasting expert)
• Fred Crouch, aka The Property Wizard (co‑host)
• Jovan Strika from Hive coworking space
• Melanie Webber, invaluable business partner
• Wayne Pratt from Motive8U Inc, coach & co‑host

🤝 Sponsors & Contact Info

• Descript – AI audio & video editing made easy → Get started
• Hive – Vibrant office community for in-person networking → Join them
• Property Wizard Podcast – Real estate investing insights with Fred Crouch → Listen now
• Notionhive – Websites & apps to bring your ideas to life → Learn more
• East Trade Winds – Business networking for growth & opportunity → Register

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