Unlocking Small Business Success: The Power of Purpose and Positivity with Steve Beecham

The Small Business Safari

#Entrepreneur #Business #Chris Lalomia #Small Business Help #Entrepreneurship #Small Business Marketing #Employee Training #Customer Experience #Best Practices In Small Business #Business Plan #MBA #Marketing #Scale Business #Home Service #Strategic Planning #Homeservice

38:16

Many of us are entering the new year with a similar goal — to build community and connect more with others. To kick off season five, Priya Parker shares ideas on how to be the host with the most. An expert on building connection, Priya is the author of “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters.” Whether it's a book club, wedding, birthday or niche-and-obscurely themed party, Priya and Chris talk about how to create meaningful and fun experiences for all of your guests — including yourself. For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts . For the full text transcript, visit go.ted.com/BHTranscripts Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey here ! Learn more about TED Next at ted.com/futureyou Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…

about a year ago 43:20

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What if you could transform a struggling business into a thriving success story just by changing your mindset? Join us for an unforgettable episode of Small Business Safari, where we explore the power of self-belief, positivity, and the magic that happens when you align your life purpose with your passions. We kick off with some intriguing stories that contrast historical education differences between the North and South and engage in a spirited debate about Christopher Columbus's enduring legacy. With our special guest, Steve Beecham, a seasoned mortgage broker with deep Southern roots, we bring you an insightful discussion filled with humor, wisdom, and actionable advice.
Ever wondered how redefining your life purpose can turn your professional world upside down? Steve shares his personal journey from feeling unfulfilled in the mortgage business post-2009 crash to discovering a new passion for helping others reach their goals. Hear how adopting positive self-belief and surrounding oneself with uplifting influences can create monumental shifts in both personal and professional trajectories. Tune in for practical techniques on combating negative self-talk, including unique methods like visualizing the destruction of negative thoughts or mentally seeking advice from icons like Tony Robbins or Oprah.
If you're looking to create a buzz around your business and build valuable connections, this episode is a goldmine. We delve into networking and community-building strategies that emphasize the importance of personal connections and proactive outreach. From Steve's amusing childhood Thanksgiving memories to his innovative ideas like a homemade bourbon blend, you'll find endless inspiration and practical tips to enhance your business journey. Don't miss out on the chance to learn from Steve Beecham's invaluable insights and embark on your path to small business success with a newfound sense of purpose and positivity.

From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.

Chapters

1. Small Business Safari Adventure Talks (00:00:00)

2. Life Purpose and Belief Transformation (00:08:19)

3. Change Your Negative Thoughts (00:15:29)

4. Maximizing Business Buzz and Relationships (00:27:25)

5. Networking and Community Building Strategies (00:32:02)

6. Homemade Bourbon Story Sharing (00:40:32)

234 episodes

Unlocking Small Business Success: The Power of Purpose and Positivity with Steve Beecham

The Small Business Safari

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Chapters

1. Small Business Safari Adventure Talks (00:00:00)

2. Life Purpose and Belief Transformation (00:08:19)

3. Change Your Negative Thoughts (00:15:29)

4. Maximizing Business Buzz and Relationships (00:27:25)

5. Networking and Community Building Strategies (00:32:02)

6. Homemade Bourbon Story Sharing (00:40:32)

234 episodes

All episodes

The Small Business Safari

1
Preparing to take the LEAP into Real Estate | Michael Decoufle 56:57

9 hours ago56:57

56:57

Send us a text Michael shares his journey from Enterprise Rent-A-Car to real estate entrepreneurship, highlighting how each career step taught valuable lessons about leadership, influence, and customer service. His decision to leave corporate America wasn't about dissatisfaction but about creating a life and business fully aligned with his and his wife Cristi's deeper goals. • Starting as a rental car agent and witnessing a tie get caught in a paper shredder (a moment that still lives in infamy) • Working in diverse environments including South DeKalb and Kindercare, where he learned patience and adaptability • Transitioning to franchising, where he developed skills in influencing without direct authority • Realizing that despite corporate success, his goals required entrepreneurial freedom • Building True Blue Mountain Group with a focus on operational excellence and customer experience • Developing systems that create consistency in real estate transactions • Using community involvement and networking to establish presence in Blue Ridge • Leveraging social media connections to reach potential clients seeking vacation properties • Understanding that when you "burn your ships" and commit fully, going back isn't an option • Sharing his DIY disaster of accidentally drilling into a water pipe (and the smart move of putting the screw back in) #truebluemountaingroup#realestate#bourbon#networking#KellerWilliams#KW From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
The Undercover Life: From Sex Crimes Detective to Real Estate Success | Cristi Decoufle 53:39

4 days ago53:39

53:39

Send us a text Christi shares her remarkable journey from military police to Phoenix PD sex crimes detective to successful real estate entrepreneur in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Her story reveals how transferable skills and authentic networking can lead to success in an entirely new field. • Began career as Military Police after ROTC college scholarship • Spent nearly 22 years with Phoenix Police Department, primarily in the sex crimes unit • Featured in documentaries about sex trafficking that still air on Delta flights • Developed coping mechanisms to deal with witnessing humanity at its worst • Initially thought corporate America was the next logical step after law enforcement • Found corporate world surprisingly inefficient and culturally misaligned • Rebuilt her network from scratch through intensive community involvement • Applied investigative and listening skills to her real estate career • Focuses on honesty with clients rather than maximizing commissions • Recently launched True Blue Mountain Group Realtor Group • Recommends "Greenlights" by Matthew McConaughey for turning challenges into opportunities https://www.linkedin.com/in/christi-decoufl%C3%A9-51a0bb85/ https://www.facebook.com/ChristiDecoufleRealtor/ https://www.instagram.com/christi_decoufle_realtor/ https://www.pbs.org/video/sex-trafficking-in-america-tptgui/ #KELLERWILLIAMS#realestate#BlueRidgeGeorgia#thetrustedtoolbox#smallbusinesssafari#bourbon From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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Selling Beyond the Ick Factor | Dr. Cindy McGovern 49:58

7 days ago49:58

49:58

Send us a text Every job is a sales job, and every interaction is a sales interaction. Learning to understand needs, help people, find solutions collaboratively, and remove the "ick factor" from the sales process transforms how we approach all our business relationships. • Sales begins with selling yourself authentically and consistently • Your body language constitutes 80% of communication, even in virtual settings • The true bottlenecks often occur after the sale—in service, follow-up, and billing • Many companies create "transactionships" instead of relationships with customers • Customers need to feel seen, felt, and heard throughout their experience • Getting employees involved in sales requires showing how it benefits them personally • Effective retention begins at the first interaction, not after the transaction • Ask for referrals, reviews, and repeat business instead of hoping they'll happen Check out Dr. Cindy McGovern's books "Every Job is a Sales Job" and "Sell Yourself" at drcindy@drcindy.com or follow her at 1ST Lady of Sales on all platforms. #ORANGELEAFACADEMY#SMALLBUSINESSSAFARI#BOURBON#SELLING https://drcindy.com/orange-leaf-academy/ From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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From Window Cleaner to Exterior Lighting: Lighting up a Niche | Ryan Lee 1:02:00

21 days ago1:02:00

1:02:00

Send us a text Ryan Lee joins the podcast to discuss his journey o to successful landscape lighting entrepreneur, he discusses how focusing on a specific niche can lead to massive business growth in home services. GOLD NUGGETS Dominate a niche. By dropping every service except landscape lighting, Ryan positioned himself as the expert, commanded premium pricing, and built a brand that buyers noticed. Marinate your price. Share price ranges early—before the site visit—to filter tire-kickers and walk into every sales call with budgets aligned. Design your life, not just your business. Therapy with his wife and disciplined delegation moved Ryan from “always grinding” to present dad and strategic owner—proof that systems beat burnout. MORE ABOUT RYAN LEE: • Interested in lighting: Check out his podcast "Lighting for Profits" • Book recommendation: "Buy Back Your Time" by Dan Martell If you're ready to grow your business or find your perfect niche, check out Ryan's resources at Landscape Lighting Secrets on YouTube and Instagram or find his podcast "Lighting for Profits" on your favorite platform. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrfM0oJ4wAwL62RdWMAa3e1mxNVO62W5S https://landscapelightingsecrets.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ryanleebottoms https://www.instagram.com/landscapelightingsecrets/?igsh=MWppeTVydDMxNGh6NA%3D%3D# https://www.linkedin.com/company/landscape-lighting-secrets/ From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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The Solopreneur's Survival Guide | Liz Steblay 54:21

28 days ago54:21

54:21

Send us a text Liz Steblay joins us to share her expertise on successful solopreneurship, drawing from her experience building multimillion-dollar businesses without employees. She reveals the essential strategies that help independent consultants and service providers build wealth and create sustainable businesses. • Definition of solopreneur: self-employed person without employees who doesn't aim to grow beyond themselves • Commit to one hour of networking weekly—just "one person in person once a week" keeps your pipeline full • Create a North Star document that clearly explains your "why" for being self-employed • Establish a clear niche—clients want to hire specialists, not generalists • Build wealth and pay less tax through intentional financial planning • Solopreneurs can still build significant businesses using contractors and fractional leadership • The Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA) provides community and resources • Being self-employed doesn't mean doing everything alone—strategic outsourcing is key Discover Liz's book "Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth" and connect with her at sixkeys.info or through the Professional Independent Consultants of America at picawork.org. www.PICAnetwork.org/why https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/solopreneurs-business-development-relationship-liz-steblay/ www.SixKeys.info www.PICAnetwork.org https://highmarkdistillery.com/pages/private-barrel-experience Liz’s Profile linkedin.com/in/independentconsulting Websites ProkoConsulting.com (Company) PICAnetwork.org (Company) SuccessfulIndependentConsulting.com (Blog) From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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Who Makes Money Three Times? The Architect-Builder-Developer | Lance Cayko 1:01:27

5 weeks ago1:01:27

1:01:27

Send us a text Lance Cayko shares his remarkable journey from North Dakota farm boy to Colorado architect, builder, and developer, revealing how one summer job at age 13 sparked his entrepreneurial path. • Finding his passion in construction after quitting farm work with his father after just one week • Learning the multiplier concept and business fundamentals from his first mentor, Bruce • Working in different trades each summer from ages 13-21 to build comprehensive skills • Pursuing architecture to position himself at the beginning of the client relationship • Managing the 2,000 decisions clients face when building custom homes • Balancing three professional roles as architect, builder, and developer • Weathering the challenges of development and barely making it through their first project • Finding renewal through fishing and hiking remote alpine lakes during COVID burnout • Creating "up yards" – specially designed rooftop decks that provide privacy while showcasing mountain views • Maintaining a one-hour response time policy for all client communications "Trust the process" is Lance's message to clients navigating the ups and downs of construction. Despite all the advances in technology, buildings are still built by humans, not machines, and understanding this reality helps manage expectations throughout the journey. Lance’s Profile linkedin.com/in/lance-cayko-1227031a Websites f9productions.com/ (Company) insidethefirmpodcast.com/ (Podcast) From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
The Financial Compass: Navigating Business Success with a Fractional CFO | Rosco Graves 47:09

6 weeks ago47:09

47:09

Send us a text Rosco Graves, founder and CEO of Polaxis, shares his journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurship and explains how fractional CFO services can transform small business operations and profitability. • Building trust with clients starts with understanding their unique needs and personalities • The value of storytelling in financial services—translating numbers into meaningful narratives • Why "you don't know what you don't know" can be the biggest threat to your business • How fractional CFO services provide Fortune 500 financial expertise to small and medium businesses • The importance of having finance professionals involved in business decisions before problems arise • Common financial blind spots that cost business owners thousands • The transition from corporate mindset to entrepreneurial thinking requires deliberate reprogramming • Starting with a $50 client and growing to serve businesses across multiple industries and states • The power of combining technical expertise with strong communication skills • Financial professionals who can tell you things you need to hear, not just what you want to hear • The realistic risks of entrepreneurship versus corporate employment Check out Polaxis and connect with Rosco at polaxis.co or email info@polaxis.co to learn how his team can help your business make better financial decisions and achieve greater profitability. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
From B-1 Bombers to Data Analytics: Collin Graves' Journey | Collin Graves 48:58

7 weeks ago48:58

48:58

Send us a text Collin Graves shares his journey from Air Force mechanic working on B-1 bombers to founding successful cloud computing and data analytics companies. He discovered his entrepreneurial path by identifying specific pain points for construction companies, creating cloud-based file-sharing solutions, and eventually building North Labs, where his team develops data analytics systems that transform businesses. • Built his first tech company while still in the military, focusing on cloud storage solutions for construction companies • Learned cloud computing through self-teaching, becoming one of the first 10 fully certified AWS professionals worldwide • Sold his first company in 2014, which led to a two-year non-compete agreement • Founded North Labs in 2016, focusing on data analytics as a profit center rather than just cloud migration • Helped a $7 billion manufacturing company reduce their scrap rate with a data solution that saved them $40 million in just one year • Emphasizes that most companies already have the data they need but don't know how to leverage it • Creates "command centers" that unify data across different systems to provide actionable business intelligence • Recommends the book "Simplify" by Robert Koch and Greg Lockwood for business owners • Currently races in two series including Radicals and as a reserve driver in the Lamborghini series Connect with Collin Graves on LinkedIn or visit NorthLabs.com to learn more about how data analytics can transform your business. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
Holy Crap! The Untold Story of a Dog Poop Empire | Will Milliken 50:29

8 weeks ago50:29

50:29

Send us a text Will transformed his background in digital marketing to create a thriving dog waste removal business, turning a simple concept into a multi-million dollar enterprise within just a few years. His journey proves that finding underserved niches and applying sound business principles can create extraordinary opportunities even in seemingly ordinary services. • Started with digital marketing background before realizing owning service businesses would be more profitable • Launched an electrical company that hit $1M in revenue within six months • Created Swoop Scoop after noticing poor service from existing dog waste removal companies • Built market awareness where none existed previously through door-to-door marketing and Facebook ads • Grew from 20 to over 300 accounts in just three months using targeted digital marketing • Operates on a subscription model with pre-billing to maintain healthy cash flow • Differentiates through professional branding, uniformed employees, company vehicles, and quality assurance • Created "Poop Scoop Millionaire" educational platform to teach others how to start similar businesses • Built such strong brand recognition that "Swoop Scoop" has become synonymous with the service in his market • Plans to scale to $10M annual revenue through continued geographic expansion Connect with Will and learn more about starting your own pet waste removal business at scoopstart.com or through the Scoop Start YouTube channel. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
Building a Business that doesn't run you | Al Levi 45:25

9 weeks ago45:25

45:25

Send us a text Al Levy transformed his family's heating business into a multi-trade powerhouse spanning four generations by developing comprehensive systems, training programs, and clearly defined organizational structures. • Building operating manuals that defined processes objectively in writing • Creating a corresponding training center to transform willing apprentices into skilled technicians • Implementing a merit-based pay system rather than rewarding longevity • Early adoption of technology like two-way radios and computerization • Developing clear roles and responsibilities using "the box chart" to prevent micromanagement • Prioritizing supplier relationships by paying vendors first • Using a training center to test new products before taking them to customers • Giving employees the opportunity to try products in their own homes at a discount • Managing family business dynamics through clear communication and defined responsibilities • Creating true career paths rather than just jobs Check out Al's "7 Power Contractor" book and online programs at 7powercontractor.com for more resources on building a successful home services business. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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Behind the Scenes: Building a B2B Back Office Empire | Gabrielle Mills 54:53

10 weeks ago54:53

54:53

Send us a text Gabrielle Mills and her mother Chrissy took an unconventional path to entrepreneurship. After six years of searching for the perfect business model, they decided to invest in themselves instead of a franchise—starting what would become Sourced, a comprehensive back-office services company, from Chrissy's basement. What makes their story remarkable isn't just the mother-daughter dynamic (though family ties run deep with siblings, in-laws, and extended family having worked in the business), but how they identified and filled crucial gaps for growing businesses. Sourced provides fractional accounting, marketing, HR, administrative support, and talent acquisition services—five distinct businesses under one roof, all focused on helping companies function more efficiently without the overhead of full-time staff. Their success stems from a laser focus on solving pain points. For accounting clients, it's often financial chaos—whether preparing for an exit, supporting a CFO who can't function with inadequate reports, or rescuing businesses when bookkeepers depart. Their talent acquisition process employs a three-person team that thoroughly vets candidates before clients ever meet them, saving valuable time and ensuring strong matches. Marketing services range from foundational branding (including logos designed in PowerPoint!) to comprehensive campaigns that build credibility and attract clients. After nine years of growth primarily through word-of-mouth, Sourced now faces fresh challenges. Their client base has evolved from small businesses to companies with $2-30 million in revenue—organizations that require different approaches to marketing and sales. Gabrielle's candid admission resonates with entrepreneurs everywhere: "We all have the same problem, and it's in sales. Nobody knows how to do it, nobody feels successful at it." It's this refreshing honesty, combined with their proven ability to solve complex business problems, that makes their journey so instructive for anyone building a service-based business. Want to learn more about outsourcing your back-office functions or how a fractional approach might help your business scale? Visit GetSourced.com and discover how professional support can free you to focus on growth. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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Cybersecurity Essentials for Small Business Survival | James Sanford 51:49

11 weeks ago51:49

51:49

Send us a text Your small business is vulnerable to cyber attacks whether you realize it or not. In this eye-opening conversation, IT expert James Sanford reveals the shocking truth that companies like yours face dozens of digital attacks daily—even if you're "just a handyman company" or small service business. James takes us through his journey from solo IT consultant to managed service provider, explaining how the cybersecurity landscape has dramatically evolved from annoying pop-ups to sophisticated ransomware operations that can completely shut down your business. With remarkable clarity, he breaks down complex security concepts into practical advice using colorful analogies like "putting alligators in your digital moat" that make cybersecurity accessible to even the most tech-resistant business owners. The most valuable segment comes when James outlines the five essential security measures every business needs: a proper firewall, endpoint detection and response software, password management tools, multi-factor authentication, and comprehensive backup solutions. These fundamentals form a solid security foundation that can protect your business from the most common threats without breaking your budget. What truly stands out is the paradigm shift James describes—moving from reactive IT support that only fixes things when they break to proactive management that prevents problems before they impact your business. This approach not only improves security but dramatically enhances productivity by eliminating those frustrating technology disruptions that kill your team's momentum and waste valuable time. Don't wait until you become another cybercrime statistic. Take the first step toward protecting your business by implementing these essential security measures today—because the cost of prevention is always less expensive than recovery after an attack. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
Scaling Your Business: When to Double Down and When to Hold Back | Karl Maier 44:34

12 weeks ago44:34

44:34

Send us a text Karl Maier didn't set out to become a business growth advisor. After studying economics and systems in college, he reluctantly joined his family's industrial distribution business—only to help scale it an impressive five times larger in just three years. That journey through entrepreneurship's trenches taught him lessons no classroom could provide, especially after a break-in left them with stolen computers and missing customer payment records. From recovering that early setback to riding the dot-com wave (and subsequent crash), Karl developed a sixth sense for the realities of business growth that most entrepreneurs desperately need but rarely possess. His most valuable insight? Everything takes twice as long and costs twice as much as founders expect—and sometimes that "twice" becomes four times when reality truly hits. Today, Karl works with entrepreneurs who have brilliant technical ideas but struggle with the business fundamentals required to scale. One founder approached him needing $5 million to build his dream of reaching $50 million in sales, only to discover the harsh mathematical reality: investors would need approximately 125% ownership to make the deal worthwhile. These moments of truth allow Karl to help founders adjust their expectations and strategies, often by focusing on smaller, achievable goals that establish cash flow before attempting full-scale expansion. Whether advising on fundraising approaches (which typically take 6-12 months, not the 60 days many founders expect), helping select appropriate business partners, or guiding operational scaling decisions, Karl brings the rare combination of financial expertise and entrepreneurial battle scars that make him an invaluable resource. If you're considering scaling your business or seeking funding for growth, connecting with Karl through his website Abunden.com or LinkedIn could be the most important 30-minute conversation in your business journey. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

1
Networking Your Way to Success | Luann Rushin 47:02

13 weeks ago47:02

47:02

Send us a text Luann Russian's entrepreneurial journey defies conventional wisdom about network marketing. A former pharmaceutical rep of the year, she left corporate life when her manager asked if she could "stay and be mediocre" while raising children. Twenty years later, her decision to join Arbonne has created both financial freedom and unexpected health transformation. Unlike most who enter network marketing, Luann approached it analytically – evaluating compensation plans, market size, and business sustainability before even trying the products. "I jumped in for the business model," she explains, highlighting how she examined wellness and skincare as trillion-dollar industries with growth potential. This business-first mentality positioned her for success from day one. The conversation takes a fascinating turn when Luann reveals how her purely financial decision evolved into a personal health revolution. After reluctantly trying Arbonne's 30-day healthy living program ("no one whined about it more than I did"), she experienced dramatic health improvements that eventually eliminated her fibromyalgia and Crohn's disease symptoms. "I really think the reason I ended up with Arbonne was to resolve my health issues," she reflects. Throughout the episode, Luann shares practical networking wisdom gained from running business women's groups for over a decade. Her specific strategies for follow-up, referral requests, and maintaining client relationships offer valuable insights for entrepreneurs in any industry. Perhaps most importantly, she attributes her longevity to persistence: "I don't go away. You have a bad year, you have a downside, you don't quit." Whether you're curious about network marketing, seeking business development strategies, or interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship and wellness, Luann's story demonstrates that sometimes the road less traveled leads to unexpected destinations worth discovering. Connect with her at luannrushinarbon.com to learn more about her approach to business and health. From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.…

The Small Business Safari

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Inflation 2025: Navigating Tariffs and Rising Costs 27:11

14 weeks ago27:11