In this episode of the Small Business Breakthrough Podcast, host Jason interviews Kirsten Carey, founder of Evolve Consulting, who has over 30 years of sales experience and is a specialist in helping small business owners become expert closers. Kirsten shares her journey from sales consulting to overcoming significant health challenges, to building successful businesses including wellness centers and health consulting practices. She discusses the importance of small business owners understanding the fundamentals of sales and the common mistakes they make. Kirsten also talks about her unique, human-centered approach to sales and the impact of AI on the industry. Don't miss the actionable advice and insights on how small business owners can thrive even in challenging economic climates.

00:00 Introduction to the Small Business Podcast

00:05 Meet Kirsten Carey: Sales Expert and Health Consultant

01:32 Kirsten's Journey: From Sales to Health and Back

02:34 The Importance of Sales for Small Business Owners

04:52 Transitioning Back to Sales Consulting

06:22 The Role of Small Businesses in the Economy

08:31 Kirsten's Unique Approach to Sales Consulting

10:44 Recent Projects and Market Shifts

15:32 The Impact of AI on Sales and Consulting

18:32 Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Questions

21:00 Conclusion and How to Connect with Kirsten

In this episode of the Small Business Breakthrough Podcast, host Jason interviews JD Walter, President of Waltric, on the challenges and strategies of developing workforce talent. JD shares insights from his 20 years of experience, including his time in the US Navy, on creating effective training programs tailored to meet specific business needs. The discussion covers the importance of human resilience, the role of emotional intelligence, and the critical aspects of technical skill development across all organizational levels. Whether you're a small business owner or a manager, tune in to learn how to retain and nurture your talent to drive business growth.

00:00 Introduction to Workforce Development Challenges

00:43 Meet JD Walter: Experience and Insights

01:27 Lifecycle Approach to Training Programs

02:31 The Importance of Retaining Talent

03:12 JD's Journey from Navy to Training Expert

05:02 Technical vs. Human Skills in Training

07:25 Challenges of Promoting Technicians to Managers

10:40 The Process of Workforce Development

14:21 Future Vision for Waltric

19:34 Lightning Round: Quick Questions with JD

22:08 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of the Small Business Breakthrough Podcast, we dive deep into digital marketing strategies with Kevin Howell, the founder of 3 29. Kevin shares his journey of 25 years in the agency world, focusing on web development and lead generation. He discusses the challenges and successes of running his own agency and a recent merger that synergized their services. Kevin emphasizes the importance of content strategy, holding agencies accountable, and the impacts of AI on the industry. Learn how to differentiate your business, understand the marketing landscape, and why controlling your entrepreneurial destiny is crucial. Stay tuned for valuable insights and tips on navigating your business growth and marketing strategies.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:33 Meet Kevin Howell: Founder of Three29

00:54 Kevin's Journey in Digital Marketing

01:22 Specialties and Services of Three29

03:24 Challenges and Successes in Entrepreneurship

04:32 The Big Merger: Insights and Experiences

14:38 The Future of Digital Marketing

16:47 Advice for Small Business Owners

19:14 Lightning Round: Quick Questions with Kevin

20:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Jason interviews Harry Mumma, founder of Executend, a company specializing in providing fractional C-suite services. Harry shares insights into how his diverse background in finance, IT, and operations benefits small business owners by freeing them from tasks that don't align with their passion. Learn about the importance of strategic planning, effective time management, and why working on your business is crucial for long-term success. Harry also discusses current and future trends in the solopreneur landscape, highlighting the rise of independent, passion-driven businesses. Plus, get inspired by his personal journey and practical tips on maintaining a balanced workload. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with golden nuggets for every small business owner!

00:00 Introduction to the Small Business Breakthrough Podcast

00:32 Meet Harry Mumma: The Fractional C-Suite Expert

00:59 Harry's Diverse Background and Unique Approach

02:09 The Inspiration Behind Fractional Services

03:41 The Importance of Forecasting and Strategic Planning

07:21 Success Stories and Recent Projects

09:23 Future Trends in the Industry

11:31 Work-Life Balance and Time Management

14:51 Lightning Round: Quick Questions with Harry

18:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Small Business podcast series, we dive into the visual side of marketing with Kate Cherry, founder of Kate Cherry Photography. Kate shares her journey, starting from portrait photography in 2011 to focusing on branding photography for small business owners. She discusses the importance of storytelling through imagery, how she builds strong client relationships, and the essential role of psychology in making clients comfortable during photo sessions. Kate also touches on the impact of AI in photography and shares valuable insights on how small business owners can leverage powerful imagery to connect with their audience. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with wisdom for both photographers and small business owners alike.

00:00 Introduction to the Small Business Podcast

00:21 Meet Kate Cherry: A Storyteller Through Photography

00:43 The Evolution of Kate Cherry Photography

01:34 The Power of Branding Photography

03:06 Success Stories and Client Experiences

07:33 Kate's Unique Approach to Business Photography

10:11 The Role of AI in Photography

13:08 Psychology in Photography: Making Clients Comfortable

16:21 Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Questions

18:24 Conclusion and Contact Information

Welcome to this week's episode of the Small Business Breakthrough Series. We are delighted to introduce Gene McCubbin, founder and CEO of Review-ER, who has dedicated his career to addressing a critical issue faced by countless small business owners: unhelpful negative reviews. Gene discusses how his new product, Review-ER, helps businesses manage and suppress those detrimental reviews, thereby improving their online reputation. He also shares insights from his extensive experience in the web design and tech industry, the importance of understanding financials and legalities, and his unique perspectives on the entrepreneurial journey. Don't miss this insider's take on a pressing challenge in the small business community and learn how to turn negative feedback into a positive growth opportunity. Tune in for more inspiring stories and practical advice!

00:00 Introduction to the Small Business Breakthrough Series

00:44 Introducing Gene McCubbin and Review ER

00:56 The Problem with Negative Reviews

02:36 Gene's Journey and Inspiration

06:53 Challenges and Advice for Entrepreneurs

08:48 The Importance of Financial Literacy

12:52 Future of Review Management

17:14 Lightning Round: Fun and Insights

20:42 Conclusion and How to Learn More

This week, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Abby Ashley, the founder of The Virtual Savvy. Abby started her own virtual assistant business from the ground up while she was pregnant and turned it into a successful venture that replaced her husband's income. Now, she helps others do the same through her training programs. Hear about her challenges, triumphs, and the valuable lessons she learned along the way. Abby also shares her thoughts on the future of digital courses and entrepreneurship in the age of AI. Don't miss this compelling story of resilience, innovation, and success. Check out The Virtual Savvy for more resources and opportunities!

00:00 Introduction to the Small Business Breakthrough Series

00:41 Meet Abby Ashley: Founder of Virtual Savvy

01:08 Abby's Journey to Becoming a Virtual Assistant

02:05 Overcoming Initial Challenges and Fears

04:43 The Importance of Knowing Your 'Why'

06:32 Client Success Stories and Program Flexibility

09:35 Proudest Moments and Personal Achievements

13:38 Future of the Virtual Assistant Industry

17:38 Lightning Round: Fun and Personal Questions

20:21 Conclusion and How to Connect with Abby

In this episode of the Small Business Breakthrough Podcast, host Jason welcomes Amanda Garcia, the founder and CEO of Color Word Creative. Amanda shares her journey of starting her own marketing business, the challenges she faced, and the keys to her success. She emphasizes the importance of using AI tools for efficiency while maintaining the human touch in client relationships. Amanda also recounts some exciting projects, including a successful fundraising campaign for a local food pantry and innovative marketing for a sustainable packaging company. Tune in for valuable insights and actionable advice for small business owners looking to grow their businesses.

00:00 Introduction to the Small Business Breakthrough Podcast

00:39 Meet Amanda Garcia: Founder and CEO of Color Word Creative

01:57 Amanda's Journey: From Nonprofit Storytelling to Marketing

05:37 Keys to Success in Business

10:29 Exciting Projects and Initiatives

15:49 The Future of Marketing: AI and Human Connection

22:29 Lightning Round: Fun and Insightful Questions

26:53 Overcoming Obstacles: Amanda's Personal Story

32:00 Conclusion and How to Connect with Amanda