Send us a text

Freedom of choice may be entrepreneurship's greatest gift. While corporate employees rarely select their colleagues, business owners—especially franchisees—can intentionally choose their culture and community. This powerful insight anchors our conversation with Terese McGroarty, whose entrepreneurial journey began at just 21 when she and her husband borrowed family funds to purchase their first Shell auto care franchise.

Terese shares how they expanded to three locations before making a deliberate lifestyle choice: selling their 24/7 Shell stations to purchase a Goodyear franchise that allowed Sundays off. This decision exemplifies how business ownership enables alignment between work and personal priorities. Years later, after selling their Goodyear franchise and exploring different paths, Therese found her calling as a franchise consultant with FranNet—where she now helps others navigate similar journeys.

Drawing from decades of experience, Terese offers valuable wisdom about the dangers of closed-mindedness in business exploration. She recounts stories of potential franchise owners who completed thorough validation but allowed external opinions or unfounded fears to derail their plans. Her process helps clients systematically evaluate opportunities by speaking with franchisees at various performance levels—those excelling, those performing adequately, and those struggling—to gain comprehensive understanding before making commitments.

Perhaps most compelling is Terese's perspective on franchise culture. "When you're going into business for yourself, you get to decide about the culture," she explains, noting how different franchise systems develop distinct personalities—some more faith-based or fun-oriented, others more corporate. This often-overlooked consideration can significantly impact long-term satisfaction, as franchisees become part of a community that shapes their growth.

For established business owners, Terese advocates scheduling intentional recharge time to build longevity. Whether through morning devotionals, scheduled workouts, or daily walks with audiobooks, she demonstrates how deliberate self-care prevents burnout. Her parting wisdom resonates deeply: always focus on your clients' needs rather than your own, and consistently put one foot in front of the other to achieve incremental improvement.

Whether you're considering franchise ownership or seeking to strengthen your existing business, this conversation offers practical guidance for making intentional choices that align with your values and vision. The entrepreneurial path may be challenging, but with proper due diligence and self-awareness, it offers unparalleled freedom to create the business—and life—you truly desire.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

What happens when you take a successful small business owner and give them the tools to think bigger? The transformation can be extraordinary.

Most entrepreneurs reach a critical point where they've mastered the startup phase but feel stuck in day-to-day operations, unable to achieve the next level of growth. The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program at Tri-C addresses this exact challenge through comprehensive executive education specifically designed for established small business owners.

Erika Hill, Executive Director of the program, explains how this unique curriculum differs from traditional business education. Rather than studying distant corporate case studies, participants directly apply business principles to their own operations. From leadership development to financial management, the program forces owners to step back and take a holistic view of their business—considering not just growth metrics but how business decisions impact their personal lives and long-term goals. The curriculum encourages participants to explore various growth paths, whether adding locations, developing complementary products, or entering new markets.

What makes this opportunity truly extraordinary is that it's completely free, funded by the Goldman Sachs Foundation with clear objectives: strengthen the economy by helping businesses increase sales and create jobs. Graduates consistently report that the program was life-changing, providing not just business skills but a powerful network that sustains them through both growth periods and economic challenges.

Connect with Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikahill/

----

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

Ever wondered how embracing quirks and a dash of humor can lead to entrepreneurial success? Julie Gates, a real estate investor and property manager from Savannah, Georgia, enlightens us with her fascinating journey.

Julie's story is a testament to the power of standing out. Her willingness to try new things and knack for turning ordinary ideas into extraordinary ventures make her a notable figure in Savannah's real estate scene and a great follow on Instagram. Julie's experiences reflect the importance of resilience, humor, and adaptability in business.

Julie shares her insights on teaching practical skills and cultivating a positive mindset to overcome life's hurdles. She emphasizes the value of building a supportive network, particularly among women entrepreneurs, and recounts how connecting with like-minded individuals has been transformative for her business growth.

Julie's unique approach to leadership, infused with humor and positivity, not only creates a vibrant work environment but also fosters meaningful connections. Tune in to learn how her story of embracing uniqueness and quiet confidence can inspire you on your entrepreneurial journey.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

Fred Hubler's journey from IT professional to pioneering financial advisor is nothing short of inspiring. On the anniversary of 9/11, Fred found himself unintentionally stepping into the world of finance, where he developed a contrarian mindset that thrives on challenging conventional investment strategies. We explore how Fred's transition from a traditional sales-driven brokerage firm to establishing Creative Capital Wealth Management Group was heavily influenced by the alternative investment strategies of Harvard and Yale.

In this episode, we tackle the complexities surrounding alternative investments. Fred dives into the legal hurdles that individuals with lower net worths face and how these barriers can be navigated. From understanding the importance of FINRA and SEC-regulated options to evaluating investments, Fred offers his insights into how these strategies can be adapted to the ever-changing economic landscape.

Fred's passion for challenging the status quo is evident as he draws inspiration from luminaries like Elon Musk and Henry Ford. We discuss the courage needed to take massive action and embrace discomfort, as well as the power of honest conversations about financial goals and risks. Fred encourages listeners to think differently and grow both personally and professionally, sharing personal anecdotes that highlight his entrepreneurial spirit. This episode is a call to embrace change and innovation in the pursuit of success, making it a must-listen for anyone eager to expand their financial horizons.

This episode is not nor does it contain financial advice.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets to successful career paths for young people as we chat with Chris Canova, the Executive Director of Jobs for Ohio Graduates (JOG).

Learn how JOG's innovative programs empower youth aged 14 to 24 through structured work-based learning experiences and robust job coaching. Chris shares fascinating insights into JOG's collaboration with small businesses and their unique funding model, all aimed at fostering meaningful career opportunities. Discover the long-term community impact of JOG graduates, particularly in Summit County Ohio, and how the program is part of the larger Jobs for America's Graduates network.

Explore how building strong relationships is the cornerstone of success, both in nurturing young talent and in growing a nonprofit organization. We delve into the critical elements of creating supportive environments, balancing guidance with freedom, and investing in organizational infrastructure.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

Unlock the secrets of impactful marketing with insights from Sharon Spychola of Your Corporate Concierge, as she shares her journey of transforming small business impressions at events like trade shows, expos, and golf outings.

Discover how brand ambassadors can elevate your brand better than you might believe, allowing you to focus on other critical business priorities. Sharon emphasizes the art of reading the room and knowing your audience, ensuring that your brand's identity is seamlessly maintained, whether through the strategic use of company logos or personalized approaches tailored to specific industries. Learn why golf outings are her favorite venues and how these seemingly casual settings can become strategic marketing powerhouses.

Explore the essential role of networking groups in small business growth, particularly for those who may be hesitant or introverted. We'll delve into the concept of incremental improvements and how small, consistent gestures, like sending thank-you cards or engaging thoughtfully on social platforms, can bolster your brand and simplify the complexities of business management.

Whether you're aiming to boost your marketing strategies or expand your professional network, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories to guide your success.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

Discover how embracing imperfection can lead to podcasting success with Josh Troche, a master of multimedia storytelling who turned an unexpected favor for a political figure into a thriving career.

Josh shares his insights into the world of podcasting for small business owners, offering strategies to help you sidestep common pitfalls and focus on adding value to your audience. Learn how to build a podcast from the ground up while understanding that early episodes might only reach a handful of supportive listeners, encouraging you to prioritize connection over perfection.

Our conversation underscores the importance of listening and being intentional in podcasting. Drawing parallels between the adventures of motorcycle journeys and the podcasting process, Josh speaks to the power of exploration and discovery.

Josh encourages taking small, consistent steps toward improvement, embodying the philosophy of moving just 1% forward each day. As we conclude, we celebrate Josh's role as a trusted guide for small business leaders and his contributions to the Better Business for Small Business Leaders podcast, leaving listeners inspired to embark on their own podcasting adventures.

Connect with Josh:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtroche/
Website: https://www.pedalstomperproductions.com/

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.

Send us a text

Discover how to transform your sales strategy with insights from John Stevens, a veteran sales expert with over 30 years of experience.

Ever wondered what sets apart successful sales teams from the rest? John shares his wisdom on maintaining authenticity, structuring teams with the right mix of hunters and farmers, and building robust infrastructures to support sales success. He provides a candid look at his own career journey, emphasizing the value of staying true to oneself and recognizing the unique strengths each team member brings to the table. Whether you're a small business owner or part of a larger organization, get ready to redefine how you approach sales challenges and opportunities.

From CRM systems to AI tools like ChatGPT, learn how to elevate your sales game and boost efficiency. With these tools, salespeople can shift from mere creators to editors, freeing up precious time for strategic thinking.

John shares actionable advice for business leaders. This episode promises to equip you with the tools and insights to optimize your sales strategies and leadership skills.

🎙️ Connect with Chrissy Myers and discover how resilience, expertise, and community can transform your world:

🔗 Follow Chrissy on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes insights, leadership tips, and updates on her journey as the CEO of two thriving businesses.

📘 Grab your copy of 'Reluctantly Resilient' to learn how Chrissy turned challenges into opportunities and how you can do the same in your life and business.

🤝 Explore Clarity HR and discover how Chrissy’s team simplifies HR for small businesses, giving you peace of mind to focus on what matters most.

💼 Visit AUI to see how Chrissy's employee benefits expertise can help you build a healthier, happier workforce.