Independent restaurants do more than serve food—they anchor communities. Dr. Anne McBride of the James Beard Foundation and Chef D’Andre Carter of Soul & Smoke join Emily to explore how independent restaurateurs build resilience, embrace transparency, use data, and forge deeper connections with customers. Tune in for actionable insights on navigating rising costs, leveraging technology, and growing through authentic engagement.

James Beard Foundation

Soul & Smoke

Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

Kickstarter CEO Everette Taylor joins Behind the Review to share his journey from teen entrepreneur to leading the world’s biggest crowdfunding platform. Learn what crowdfunding is (and isn’t), how Kickstarter helps small businesses and creators get funded, and why listening to feedback is Everette's top founder skill. Whether you’re launching a dream or scaling up an existing business, get practical tips for building community and funding your next big idea.

More about the episode
Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

DivaDance founder and CEO Jami Stigliano joins host Emily for a deep dive on building a movement-based business that inspires confidence and community. Jami shares candid lessons on accessing capital, scaling with intention, fostering authentic culture, leveraging reviews, and why “facts over feelings” is her rule for handling feedback. Whether you’re growing a franchise or just getting started in business, this episode is packed with actionable advice!

More about the episode
Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

From running an HVAC business with her husband to becoming the Principal Industry Advisor at ServiceTitan, Angie Snow shares proven ways to recruit new talent, boost online reviews, retain employees with creative scheduling, and leverage technology like AI. Get tactical advice on building a winning team culture, overcoming trade industry stigmas, and hear why home service careers are more in demand—and rewarding—than ever.

More about the episode

Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

How does a “flavor drop” every month, pop culture infusions, and a unique loyalty program help 16 Handles thrive in the frozen yogurt game? CEO Neil Hershman shares his journey from franchisee to CEO, the secrets behind flavor innovation, why customer reviews matter, and how modern marketing powers franchise growth. Discover lessons in loyalty, operations, and brand building—plus the scoop on what it takes to scale in a crowded dessert market.

16 Handles

More about the episode
Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

Host Emily Washcovick sits down with Joe Crisara—veteran contractor, business coach, and Service MVP podcast host. Joe shares hard-won lessons from nearly 50 years in home services: why profit takes courage, how to create value customers rave about, and smart ways to handle both glowing and tough reviews. Tune in for real strategies to elevate your business and reputation.

Service MVP Podcast

Service MVP Speaking

More about the episode

Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

Actress, writer, and entrepreneur Busy Philipps gets real about authenticity, brand partnerships, and turning disappointments into new opportunities. Tune in to hear how Busy's unfiltered approach shaped influencer marketing—and why having a clear mission is key for brands seeking lasting impact.

More about the episode
Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

Alexander’s Patisserie combines traditional culinary technique with innovation to create pastries that delight customers—and sometimes go viral. Chef Shu and Vice President David Brungard share how team culture, quality ingredients, and customer feedback keeps them on a path to success; also, Yelp Elite reviewer Taylor P dishes on the flat croissants that drew her in and why her experience left a lasting impression.

Alexander's Patisserie

More about the episode

Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

What is influencer marketing—and how can small businesses use it effectively? Emily Washcovick sits down with Julianne Fraser, founder of Dialogue NYC, to break down the types of influencers, how to build lasting partnerships, and why authenticity and creativity are key. Whether you're just starting or scaling your strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you grow your brand through partnerships, collaborations and influencer marketing.

Dialogue NYC

More about the episode

Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound

Fast, reliable service and a commitment to sustainability sets Junkluggers apart from other junk hauling providers. President Justin Waltz shares how responsiveness, customer connection, and eco-friendly practices have fueled the company’s growth as a nationwide franchise, while Yelp Elite reviewer Vanessa H. shares how the team’s problem-solving professionalism made her move stress-free. Learn how great customer service and community impact can drive business success.

junkluggers.com

More about the episode

Theme Music by Ali Schwartz and Meserole Sound