Small Business Survival Conversations

Send us Fan Mail

In this week’s Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into the fascinating story of Huy Fong’s Sriracha, the iconic “rooster sauce,” and the lessons small business owners can learn from its rise—and fall.

Discover how missteps in supply chain management, branding, and business relationships allowed competitors like Tabasco-maker McIlhenny to seize the market. Anna breaks down three critical takeaways for small business owners, including the importance of diversifying suppliers, protecting your brand, and building strategic partnerships.

Tune in to learn how to avoid these pitfalls and position your business for sustainable growth and success in a competitive market.

#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessLessons #Entrepreneurship #BrandingTips #SupplyChainManagement #GrowthMindset

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest sits down with a seasoned economic developer and former entrepreneur who knows the challenges and rewards of running a small business. With a Master's degree in Urban Planning and Real Estate Development from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and years of experience in economic development, our guest shares valuable insights on how small businesses can leverage local resources, navigate common challenges, and position themselves for long-term success.

Learn about the programs and opportunities available to small businesses in De Pere, WI, and beyond, and get actionable advice to help your business thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical strategies tailored for small business owners.

Send us Fan Mail

In this New Year’s edition of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares the inspiring story of The Jar and the Rocks to highlight the importance of focusing on what truly matters in your business and life.

As small business owners, the start of the year is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and set meaningful resolutions that align with your goals. Anna offers three actionable steps to help you identify your “big rocks,” break them into manageable tasks, and stay on track throughout the year.

Tune in to learn how to create resolutions that stick and make this year your most successful yet!

#MondayMotivation #NewYearsResolutions #SmallBusinessSuccess #GoalSetting #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #NewYearNewGoals

Send us Fan Mail

In this special holiday edition of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest explores the power of generosity and how it can transform your small business. Inspired by the timeless story of The Giving Tree, Anna shares how embracing the spirit of giving can strengthen customer relationships, build team loyalty, and create a meaningful impact in your community.

Discover three actionable ways to bring generosity into your business this season—and throughout the year. Whether it’s offering extra value to your customers, showing appreciation to your team, or giving back to your community, this episode will inspire you to give authentically and grow your business in the process.

Tune in and find out how the gift of giving can lead to lasting success and fulfillment!

#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #HolidaySeason #TheGiftOfGiving #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #KindnessMatters

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into the secret to sales success: understanding your customer’s “why.” Through the relatable story of a man and his shovel, Anna illustrates why focusing on what you’re selling isn’t enough—what truly matters is understanding the deeper need your product or service fulfills.

Discover three actionable strategies to connect with your customers’ motivations, speak to their emotions, and show how your offering solves their problems. Whether you’re struggling with sales or looking to refine your approach, this episode will help you align your efforts with what your customers truly want.

Tune in and learn how to sell with purpose and connect with your audience on a deeper level!  #MondayMotivation #SalesTips #SmallBusinessSuccess #CustomerNeeds #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #SellingWithPurpose

Send us Fan Mail

In this week’s episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares Aesop’s timeless fable, The Ant and the Grasshopper, to highlight a powerful lesson for small business owners: the importance of preparation and planning.

Drawing inspiration from the hardworking Ant, Anna explores how entrepreneurs can navigate the cycles of abundance and challenge by building financial reserves, investing in systems, and staying focused on long-term goals. Whether you’re in a season of growth or facing tough times, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you prepare for success in every season of your business.

Tune in and discover how to work smarter, not just harder, and build a business that thrives no matter the circumstances.
#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessPlanning #Entrepreneurship #WorkSmart #BusinessGrowth #LongTermSuccess

Send us Fan Mail

In this week’s episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares an inspiring story about a cracked pot and the unexpected beauty that comes from imperfections. Drawing on this fable, Anna explores how small business owners can turn setbacks into opportunities for growth.

Learn three actionable strategies to reframe challenges, focus on what you can control, and build a strong support system to navigate tough times. Whether you’re facing a difficult client, supply chain issues, or a missed opportunity, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to turn setbacks into stepping stones for success.

Tune in to discover how resilience and perspective can transform your business journey—and help you find the flowers along your path.

#MondayMotivation #SmallBusinessSuccess #Resilience #GrowthMindset #EntrepreneurTips #BusinessGrowth #SetbacksToSuccess

4o

Send us Fan Mail

This special Thanksgiving episode of Monday Morning Motivation is all about gratitude and how it can transform your business and mindset. Host Anna Steinfest shares the inspiring story of a farmer and a wise traveler to illustrate the power of thankfulness in overcoming challenges and fostering growth.

Discover how practicing gratitude can strengthen relationships, fuel resilience, and inspire innovation in your entrepreneurial journey. Anna also provides a simple gratitude exercise to help you reflect, connect, and grow during this holiday week. Tune in to learn why gratitude isn’t just a feel-good practice—it’s a game-changer for small business success.

#MondayMotivation #ThanksgivingWeek #SmallBusinessSuccess #Gratitude #PositiveMindset #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth

4o

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest dives into the powerful 5 Whys method, developed by Sakichi Toyoda, the founder of Toyota. This simple yet effective problem-solving technique has been used for decades to uncover root causes, improve quality, and reduce costs in businesses of all sizes.

Anna shares the fascinating history of the 5 Whys, its continued relevance today, and how small business owners can apply it to solve recurring issues in their operations. Through a relatable example, she demonstrates how asking “why” five times can help you move past surface-level symptoms and find lasting solutions.

If you’re ready to solve problems smarter, not harder, this episode is a must-listen!

#SmallBusinessSuccess #ProblemSolving #5WhysMethod #BusinessTips #LeanMethodology #MondayMotivation #Entrepreneurship

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest shares a timeless fable about a donkey, a tiger, and the King of the Jungle to reveal an important lesson for business owners: sometimes the smartest move is to walk away. Anna dives into the importance of protecting your energy and focus by avoiding pointless arguments, especially with people more interested in being “right” than in finding the truth.

Learn how to identify “donkey traps” in your business life, choose your battles wisely, and surround yourself with constructive voices that support your growth. Tune in to discover why preserving your peace and focusing on what truly matters are essential strategies for long-term success.

#MondayMotivation #BusinessMindset #SmallBusinessTips #KnowWhenToWalkAway #ProtectYourEnergy #EntrepreneurSuccess