Welcome everyone to the second season of Business of Craft where our theme is wantrepreneurship-- and our episodes are covering all the baby steps you need to take to launch your new business in 2020. My guest today is Jamie Billesbach, she is the Center Director of the Small Business Development Center for the Central Mountain Region of Colorado. Jamie has more than 20 years of experience in brand development, merchandising, graphic design and marketing planning for companies such as LavAzza coffee, Clif Bar, Annie’s Gourmet and Hershey’s. She also worked for the Mexican government developing the Mexican Chiapas Shade Grown Coffee company with over 25,000 growers. 

Business of Craft Season 2  Jamie Billesbach on Business Plans

The Business of Craft Podcast is a lively show where our host Leanne Pressly interviews business leaders and entrepreneurs of fiber arts, fabric, sewing and other creative companies so you can learn to craft a better business.

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Today our guest is Richard Parker, the President of Diomo Corporation, who has dedicated his career to advising and mentoring people who want to buy or sell a business. He has purchased and sold 13 of his own companies and understands firsthand the emotional journey that buyers and sellers experience. This is a very relevant topic in the craft industry as many of the businesses are independent and/or family owned. As owners age and are looking toward retirement, there is often a question of how to position the business for sale, or where to even find a buyer? On the flipside, for buyers, who often come to the industry as hobbyists and enthusiasts first, how should they assess a business for purchase? 

Business of Craft Buying and Selling a Business with Richard Parker

Today our guest is Pamela Slim, celebrated author and small business expert who has dedicated decades to shaping and enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem.  She is a co-founder of the KEH community lab in Mesa, Arizona, alongside her husband, Darryl. This innovative hub serves as a grassroots, community-based think tank dedicated to accelerating small business growth. Pam's insights and expertise frequently grace the pages of esteemed publications, including The New York Times, Forbes, and BusinessWeek. She has written several books including "Escape from Cubicle Nation," which was recognized as the Best Small Business and Entrepreneur book in 2009 and her follow up, Body of Work. Her latest book, "The Widest Net," helps you grow your business by connecting with customers outside your usual field of view.

Business of Craft Pam Slim on Tiny Marketing Actions

Today we have John Li, the startup and co- founder of PickFu.com who believes in the transformative power of consumer insights to drive business success. Recognizing that better insights lead to better decisions, John advocates for frequent and in-depth market research. With experience spanning from tech giants like Microsoft to bootstrapped startups, he's witnessed the exponential benefits of well-executed market research and the pitfalls of ignoring consumer voices.   

Business of Craft Competitive Research and Data Analysis with John Li

Today, our guest is Adrian Koehler, and we're jumping into leadership and how to use emotions in leadership to lead fearlessly. Adrian works with coaching leadership engagement and is senior partner at the executive coaching powerhouse, Take New Ground. They’ve worked with companies such as Lululemon, Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream (which we LOVE at Stitchcraft Marketing) and Nike. Adrian has carved a niche in coaching executives and entrepreneurs alike. His goal is always to empower these leaders to bring out the best in themselves, rally their teams, and serve their clients in ways that not only break new ground but also infuse a deep sense of fulfillment in their professional lives.

Business of Craft Adrian Koehler on Fearless Leadership

Today's guest is Cathy McKillip, CEO and president of RETAIL PROFIT MAKERS, a consulting business designed to help independent retail companies maximize profits through better inventory management. Cathy has over 30 years of business and retail experience and sold her retail business after growing sales to a tenfold multiple in 10 years.

Business of Craft Season 2 Jamie Billesbach on Business Plans

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