How to Start a Local Business: Essential Steps and Tips

Join Amber Artemis as she wraps up the series on starting a local small business by diving into the crucial 'how' aspect. This video covers the importance of creating a business plan, understanding operating costs and cost of goods, and effectively pricing your products. Amber provides valuable resources, including a business plan template (now up on the resources page) and the Ready to Launch Quiz (link in main menu), to help you assess your readiness. She also discusses different funding strategies and emphasizes the importance of incremental growth. Don't miss out on subscribing to Amber’s newsletter for more insights and updates on upcoming courses and masterminds.

00:00 Introduction to Starting a Local Small Business

00:24 The Importance of a Business Plan

01:06 Understanding Costs and Pricing

02:31 Ensuring Profitability Before Launch

03:48 Funding Your Local Business

05:42 Ready to Launch Quiz and Resources

06:17 Stay Connected and Future Opportunities

07:20 Conclusion and Best Wishes

Here are some questions and topics covered in this video:

Step-by-Step Guide to Launching a Successful Local Business

Growing a Thriving Salon & Spa: Interview with Reenie McGrath, Owner of Ocean's Edge Salon and Spa

Join host Amber Artemis on the Launch Local Podcast as she sits down with Reenie McGrath, the inspiring owner of Ocean's Edge salon and spa in Surfside Beach, South Carolina. With nearly three decades of experience in the salon and spa industry, Reenie shares her journey from starting her first salon in Pennsylvania to building a flourishing business in a tourist destination. In this episode, you'll discover how Reenie successfully transitioned from a stylist to a business owner, managed exponential growth, and even branched into new ventures like launching a simulated automobile racing business with her son. Learn valuable insights on customer retention, marketing strategies, managing employees, and overcoming the challenges of running a salon and spa. Whether you're looking to start your own salon or grow your existing small business, this episode is packed with know-how and inspiration.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:59 Reenie's Business Journey Begins

01:46 Waxing Stories and Salon Evolution

03:57 Starting a Business in the Beauty Industry

07:10 Owning and Expanding the Salon

12:09 Managing a Multi-Use Commercial Space

13:35 Hiring and Managing Stylists

29:14 Transitioning from Stylist to Business Owner

39:33 Networking and Building a Reputation

45:23 Expanding the Salon Team

46:33 Transition to American Hairlines

50:22 Building Ocean's Edge

56:03 Marketing and Promotions

01:01:00 Financial Growth and Challenges

01:20:46 Future Plans and Reflections

Here are some alternate ways to describe the content of this episode based on business and salon ownership: From Stylist to Salon Owner: Reenie McGrath's Success Story Entrepreneurial Journey: How Reenie Built a Thriving Salon Business Salon Success Secrets: Reenie McGrath’s 10x Growth Story How to Start and Grow a Successful Salon Business Building a Salon Business from Scratch Turning Passion into Profit: Salon Business Tips with Reenie McGrath Behind the Chair: The Journey to Owning a Salon Creating a Luxury Salon Experience: Inside Ocean’s Edge Beauty Business Boom: How Reenie Grew Her Salon Tenfold Launching a Salon: Lessons from Reenie McGrath's Entrepreneurial Path

Understanding Your 'Why' when Starting a Local Business | Launch Local Podcast

In this episode of the Launch Local Podcast, host Amber Artemis delves into the importance of understanding your 'why' when starting a small business in your community. Amber discusses how identifying your core motivations can help you connect with customers, drive your business, keep you motivated, and help you withstand tough times. The episode covers the distinction between personal and professional motivations, the significance of having a mission and vision, and practical tips for aligning new opportunities with your core purpose. This insightful discussion is a must-watch for aspiring local business owners looking to build a successful and sustainable venture.

00:00 Introduction to Launch Local Podcast

00:24 The Importance of 'Why' in Starting a Business

01:12 Defining Your Mission and Vision

02:00 Personal vs. Professional Motivation

03:08 Showing Up in Your Community

04:21 The Challenges of Being Your Own Boss

05:12 Meeting a Community Need

07:01 Passion and Excellence in Your Business

10:16 Evaluating Opportunities and Staying Focused

13:04 Conclusion and Next Steps

Topics covered include:

1. "Finding Your 'Why': The Key to Local Business Success"

2. "Why Your 'Why' Matters in Business: The Ultimate Guide"

3. "The Importance of 'Why' in Building a Community Business"

4. "Start with Why: Defining Your Local Business Vision"

5. "Unlocking Success: The Core Mission and Vision for Small Business Owners"

6. "How Your 'Why' Drives Business Growth and Community Impact"

7. "Personal vs. Professional: Aligning Your Motivation with Business Goals"

8. "Mastering Your Motivation: Why 'Why' Is Essential for Entrepreneurs"

9. "Fueling Passion and Excellence in Your Business: Start with Why"

10. "Decoding Your 'Why': The Roadmap for Future-Proofing Your Business"

Starting a Business? Essential Tax Tips from a CPA

In this episode of the Launch Local podcast, host Amber Artemis sits down with Jaclyn Gallagher, an experienced certified public accountant from Buckno Lisicky & Company located in PA & NJ. Jaclyn shares invaluable insights into the intricacies of starting and running a business, including choosing the right business entity, understanding your tax filing requirements, and the importance of keeping personal and business finances separate. This episode is packed with practical advice on setting up sales tax accounts, the benefits of working with professional advisors, and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. Ideal for budding entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to navigate the complexities of business taxes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone aiming to launch and grow a successful local business.

00:00 Introduction to Jaclyn Gallagher

01:00 Understanding Tax Season

03:21 Choosing the Right Business Entity

05:06 LLC vs. S Corp: Key Differences

12:42 Setting Up Sales Tax Accounts

22:53 Becoming an Employer

32:19 Employee Benefits and Incentives

38:43 Managing Cash Flow

40:14 Understanding the Corporate Veil

41:03 Handling Cash Transactions in Your Business

43:42 Bookkeeping: From Spreadsheets to QuickBooks

44:50 Exploring Alternative Bookkeeping Software

45:59 The Importance of Monthly Reconciliation

49:36 Tracking Business Expenses and Deductions

59:57 Navigating Sales Tax and Short-Term Rentals

01:05:45 Preparing for Estimated Tax Payments

01:09:52 Charitable Contributions and Advertising Expenses

01:12:07 The Value of Professional Advisors

01:14:14 Issuing 1099s: Best Practices

01:20:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Topics covered in this podcast episode include:

1. "Starting a Business: Essential Tax and Legal Insights with Jaclyn Gallagher"

2. "Understanding LLCs and S Corps: A Guide for New Business Owners"

3. "Expert Tips for Managing Business Finances and Taxes"

4. "Tax Season Survival Guide: Insights from an Accountant"

5. "LLC vs S Corp: Choosing the Right Business Structure"

6. "Navigating Sales Tax and Employer Obligations for Small Businesses"

7. "Business Start-Up Guide: From Entity Selection to Employee Benefits"

8. "All About 1099s: Tax Essentials for Small Business Owners"

9. "Strategic Business Planning: Accounting and Tax Strategies"

10. "Leveraging Your CPA: Saving Money and Growing Your Business" 

Launching a Local Business: Key Tips on Choosing Your Location

Join Amber Artemis in this episode of Launch Local as she delves into the intricacies of starting a local business with a focus on 'where.' Drawing from her personal experiences of running a home-based photography business and a winery, Amber discusses the benefits and challenges of operating from home and the crucial considerations for selecting a brick-and-mortar location. Learn strategies for keeping overhead low, the importance of leasing agreements, and the potential of co-locating with other businesses. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand, this episode is packed with practical advice as well as business ideas and inspiration. Don't forget to take the 'Ready to Launch' quiz on the Launch Local website for personalized feedback to help kickstart your business journey at launchlocal.biz

00:00 Introduction to Launching a Local Business

00:43 Starting a Home-Based Business

01:30 Advantages and Disadvantages of Home-Based Businesses

03:46 Transitioning to Online Sales

04:06 Tax Considerations for Home-Based Businesses

05:40 Exploring Brick and Mortar Options

07:45 Co-Locating with Other Businesses

08:00 Case Study: Launching a Winery Business

11:03 Importance of Lease Agreements

12:04 Conclusion and Resources

Some questions this video might answer: - How to Launch a Successful Local Business: Tips and Strategies - Steps to Starting a Local Business: From Home-Based to Brick and Mortar - Your Guide to Launching a Local Business in Your Community - Starting a Local Business: Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success - From Home Office to Main St: Launching Your Local Business - The Essentials of Launching a Local Business: Location, Lease, and More - Successful Local Business Launch: Lessons and Insights - What You Need to Know Before Starting a Local Business - Local Business Startup Tips: Home-Based Ventures and Beyond - Navigating the Challenges of Launching a Local Business

Growing a Small Farm into a Big Business - Lessons in Resourcefulness and Innovation from Apple Ridge Farm

Follow Launch Local podcast for ideas and inspirations for your local business. Planning to start your own small business? Take the "Ready to Launch" Quiz at LaunchLocal.biz to get personalized feedback on steps to take next.

Show Notes:

Apple Ridge Farm: From a College Kid with a Self-Serve Veggie Stand to a 40-Person Staff

In this episode of Launch Local, host Amber Artemis sits down with Brian Bruno and Christine Klein of Apple Ridge Farms. Based in Saylorsburg, PA, this small farm maximizes its seven acres by producing naturally grown produce, raising and butchering chickens and pigs, running a bakery, partnering with Shawnee Craft Brewery for a pizza pub, and operating a fermented foods business. Celebrating over 20 years in operation and employing around 40 people, Brian and Christine share their journey, discuss the challenges and rewards of managing such a diverse enterprise, and offer valuable insights into scaling a small business, the importance of value-added products, and maintaining sustainability. They also talk about the transition of the farm from a homestead to a commercial enterprise, the benefits of organic farming, and how partnering with other local businesses can drive success. Tune in to learn from their experience and get inspired to launch your own local business!

00:00 Introduction to Apple Ridge Farms

01:15 Meet the Founders: Brian and Christine

01:44 Brian's Journey: From College to Farming

03:27 Expanding the Farm: Adding Value with a Bakery

04:41 The Growth of Apple Ridge Farms

07:04 Challenges and Strategies in Farming

19:55 Christine's Role and Wholesale Expansion

23:15 Apprenticeships and Team Building

27:28 Value-Added Products and Profitable Business Philosophy

38:07 Managing Market Logistics

39:19 Innovative Refrigeration Solutions

40:10 Starting at the Farmer's Market

43:22 Investing in Equipment

44:19 Scaling Up and Automation

46:04 Employee Benefits and Retention

47:55 Challenges with Canning Line

51:07 Mobile Canning and Butchering

52:22 Sustainable Farming Practices

55:38 Navigating Regulations and Inspections

59:30 Entrepreneurial Mindset

01:05:30 Balancing Work and Personal Life

01:08:41 Future Plans and Collaborations

01:19:00 Conclusion and Outro

#joelsalatin #farming #farmerlife #farmbusiness #localbusiness #business #businessideas #businessgrowth

How to Know When You're Ready to Launch Your Local Business - Join Amber Artemis in this episode as she delves into the crucial timing of launching a local business. Learn the importance of personal and financial readiness, the benefits of starting in different seasons, and tips on building community excitement. Amber also offers valuable resources like the 'Ready to Launch' quiz to help you assess your preparedness. Don't miss this insightful guide to set your local business on the path to success.

00:00 Introduction to Launch Local

00:38 Preparing Yourself Mentally

00:57 Building Buzz and Engagement

02:59 Financial Preparation

05:41 Timing Your Launch

06:18 Personal Experiences and Advice

08:41 Final Thoughts and Resources

Steve Ohl on Running a Successful Family Business - Interview with RF Ohl owner Steve Ohl, an experienced entrepreneur maintaining a family-run heating oil, HVAC, and plumbing business for over three decades. Learn how to start and grow a small business with insights from Steve's journey, beginning with the steps he took to systematize and modernize the business that paved the way for growth. Discover the importance of adapting to market changes, leveraging technology, and maintaining excellent customer service. Steve also shares his strategies for managing family dynamics in business and his approach to effective team building and leadership. Whether you're navigating the startup phase or looking to expand your small (perhaps family run) business, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and inspiration.

00:00 Introduction

05:14 Early Beginnings and Family Business

18:32 Expansion and Diversification

21:10 Challenges and Changes

27:00 Embracing Technology and Modernization

36:49 Team Building and Leadership

43:09 Acquisitions and Growth Strategies

47:32 Future Goals and Reflections

Join Amber Artemis as she discusses the essential steps to validate your business idea. Learn how to conduct market research, understand the importance of community engagement, and differentiate your services from peers in your niche. Emphasizing a cooperative approach over competition, Amber provides insights on how to ensure your business concept can thrive in the market. Discover how to focus on your core offerings and develop a minimum viable product to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey.

* 00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic

* 00:51 The Joy of Ideation

* 01:47 Validating Your Business Idea

* 02:48 Competition vs. Cooperation

* 05:31 Market Research and Community Engagement

* 07:01 Minimum Viable Product

In this episode of the Launch Local Podcast, host Amber Artemis sits down with Walt Bevilacqua, an experienced electrical contractor and the owner of WB Electric. Walt shares his journey in the electrical field, starting from his high school days in tech school, through various employment experiences, to ultimately founding his own company in 2001. He talks about the importance of perpetual learning, building a reliable team, and navigating the challenges of running a business. Walt emphasizes 'word of mouth' as a crucial element for hiring and customer acquisition. He also discusses how he balanced work with personal life, utilized assets to fuel business growth, and his passion for music and community support. Walt offers insights on trust, respect in the workplace, and the significance of establishing an exit strategy in business.

* 00:00 Introduction to Launch Local Podcast

* 00:34 Meet Walt Bevilacqua: A Journey in Electrical Contracting

* 01:16 Early Career and Education

* 04:34 From Cell Towers to International Projects

* 13:51 Starting and Growing WB Electric

* 17:18 Balancing Work and Passion for Music

* 28:58 Building a Strong Team

* 30:55 Continuous Learning and Business Philosophy

* 33:03 Building and Renting Properties

* 34:16 Investing in Assets

* 35:05 Creative Ways to Build Equity

* 35:46 Rich Dad, Poor Dad Philosophy

* 40:19 Performing and Overcoming Fear

* 48:11 Finding Customers and Growing the Business

* 52:08 Challenges and Lessons Learned

* 01:02:36 Future Plans and Exit Strategy

* 01:05:20 Acknowledging Team Contributions

* 01:09:41 Final Thoughts and Farewell