The Small Business Safari

Charging more than it costs to provide a service was a revelation that transformed my entrepreneurial journey—and it might just transform yours too. Join us as we unpack this pivotal lesson and more with special guest Ellen Rohr from the Home Service Institute. Ellen shares her wealth of knowledge from the home services industry, helping us navigate business growth with practical insights and laughter. We also take a trip down memory lane to my recent visit to Texas, including the gargantuan facilities at Baylor University and a light-hearted sushi story that challenges the notion that it's all brisket in the Lone Star State.

Our conversation takes an exciting twist as we dive into the world of CRM systems and technology in business. After facing challenges with Service Titan, we discuss the transition to FieldPulse and the importance of finding the right tech fit for smaller companies. Ellen, with her inspiring story of saving her husband's plumbing business, provides expert advice on both technological and business solutions. This episode is a treasure trove of tips on overcoming tech challenges, illustrated with personal anecdotes and Ellen's vast industry experience.

Finally, we shine a spotlight on the often-underappreciated trades industry, celebrating the unsung heroes and the essential role they play in our lives. Ellen shares her journey from questioning business finances to becoming a leading figure in the trades, with stories of success, resilience, and innovation. Our discussion underscores the power of customer service, strategic growth, and pursuing what truly matters. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode promises to inspire and equip you with the right tools for your business adventures.

What does it take to transition from working with your family's business to creating a successful marketing empire dedicated to contractors? Join us as we unpack the incredible journey of Logan Schindholzer, founder of Contractor Growth Network. Logan reveals the dynamic shift from working late nights and weekends for his dad's company to spearheading his own venture, using his athletic prowess and storytelling skills to navigate the entrepreneurial safari. Expect to gain invaluable insights into overcoming small business hurdles and capturing the unpredictable nature of success, much like the Detroit Tigers’ unexpected wins.

Growing up in Maryland as a die-hard Orioles fan and embracing the entrepreneurial spirit passed down by his parents, Logan decided to forge his own path instead of joining the family business. His athletic journey, from gymnastics to collegiate diving, eventually led to his induction into the Virginia Tech Athletic Hall of Fame, underscoring the importance of personal choice and passion. Explore how these experiences helped shape Logan’s mindset and fueled his drive to innovate in marketing, particularly with groundbreaking strategies like video marketing and AI-enhanced content creation.

Learn how Logan turned the challenges of entrepreneurship into triumph, leveraging lessons from sports and marketing to empower home service companies. Discover the art of storytelling and building impactful marketing campaigns that draw inspiration from platforms like HGTV. We also delve into effective meeting leadership, customer service excellence, and the power of maintaining strong client relationships. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Logan's journey is sure to inspire and equip you with the strategies needed to thrive.

Unlock the secrets of scaling your small business with insights from our special guest, Terry "Doc" Dockery, as he shares wisdom on conflict resolution and finding happiness in entrepreneurship. We navigate the intricate dynamics of family-run businesses, offering key strategies to attract and retain talent, implement effective systems, and the importance of stepping back to work on your business instead of just in it. Through the inspiring story of an entrepreneur who transitioned from a humble printer shop to a thriving waterproofing business, we emphasize the power of mentorship and strategic growth.

Take a nostalgic journey back to 1976 with tales of hitchhiking adventures from Berkeley to Augusta, where the thrill of the open road met the generosity of strangers. We humorously compare this era of travel with today’s structured ride-sharing services, highlighting how perceptions of safety have evolved over time. The episode blends these lighthearted stories with deeper reflections on music and personal growth, including an unforgettable encounter with BB King and the vibrant world of tribute bands, bringing a rich tapestry of narratives that span decades.

Explore the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship, from navigating family business dynamics to mastering the art of delegation and leadership. We share personal stories and expert advice on managing work-life balance, strategic planning, and the complexities of transitioning from a high-powered consulting career to solopreneurship. Finally, get ready for our upcoming music listener party in Atlanta, where we thank Doc for his musical contributions and invite our audience to join us in creating unforgettable memories.

Ready to transform your business pricing game? You'll gain the confidence to set the right prices and avoid common pitfalls with insights from our guest, John Ray, author of "The Generosity Mindset." We explore the complexities of pricing for small businesses, especially in home services and blue-collar industries, sharing strategies to navigate price-sensitive customers and boost your value proposition.

Discover how a mindset shift in your marketing strategy can elevate your business. We discuss the transition from showcasing experience to emphasizing the transformative value you offer clients. Additionally, we delve into the power of intangible skills like communication and punctuality, and their pivotal role in enhancing customer satisfaction, securing referrals, and achieving overall business success.

We also tackle the challenges of handling price shoppers and the benefits of regular price evaluations. Whether you're dealing with the intricacies of professional services or the nuances of emergency services, understanding how to convey value can be a game-changer. With personal anecdotes and examples from the handyman and commercial real estate fields, we aim to equip you with the tools to thrive. Join us for an insightful conversation that promises to reshape your approach to pricing and client engagement.

Award-winning author and former accountant CT Emerson returns to the Small Business Safari podcast to share his remarkable journey from crunching numbers to crafting narratives. In our lively conversation, CT unveils the creative process behind his captivating Nova series, blending the magical allure of Harry Potter with the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones, all while embracing his rich Mexican heritage. From vocal warm-up exercises to tales of his adventurous drive, we promise a mix of laughter and insight as we explore the art of building fictional worlds and the inspiration behind CT's literary success.

Listeners can expect a deep dive into the mechanics of storytelling and the challenges of writing a first book. CT draws parallels between character development in his series and iconic TV shows like Seinfeld, emphasizing how practice and perseverance hone creative skills. The episode offers invaluable advice on maintaining continuity in complex narratives, with practical tips like using spreadsheets to keep track of character arcs. You'll walk away with a better understanding of the emotional journey and behind-the-scenes work that go into crafting compelling stories.

The conversation shifts to the business side of writing, as we uncover strategies for creative business growth. CT shares insights into marketing tactics, the importance of an online presence, and the evolving world of audiobooks. We tackle the balance between short-term wins and long-term success, using baseball analogies to illustrate the game of creative entrepreneurship. With a humorous take on legal challenges and marketing strategies, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone eager to learn about the intersection of business, creativity, and writing.

What if you could transform your passion into a thriving business while mastering the art of sales? In this exciting episode, we journey through the world of small business ownership and sales coaching, starting with a captivating story from the automotive industry. Our guest shares their fascinating career path, from a love of cars to a pivotal role at Volkswagen Group, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and methodical preparation. With personal anecdotes and lessons learned, we caution against the pitfalls of impulsive business decisions and emphasize the value of a solid growth strategy.

Listeners are treated to an engaging exploration of sales training and entrepreneurship. Dive into the unconventional yet impactful sales training methods and learn how the Sandler system revolutionized modern selling techniques. Our guest recounts their transition from a structured corporate career to the risky yet rewarding world of entrepreneurship, sharing insights into building a business from scratch. This episode is packed with tales of resilience, the power of masterful communication, and the art of embracing "no" in sales to foster genuine client relationships.

A thrilling narrative wraps up with an exploration of value-based selling and the emotional dynamics of purchasing decisions. The Sandler method's effectiveness is brought to life through stories of setting upfront contracts and managing expectations. We also share a lighthearted Thanksgiving tale involving a bear, a hot tub, and a deep-fried turkey, bringing levity to the conversation. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned sales professional, this episode promises valuable insights and strategies to help you navigate the entrepreneurial landscape and achieve your goals.

Discover the secrets behind the "Lickety Split Preparedness Kit" with our guest, home security expert Ian Hay. Drawing on the lessons from 9-11, Ian walks us through the essentials of creating a practical and effective emergency kit using everyday items. We also delve into the necessity of having a solid communication plan and a designated rally point for emergencies. While the topic is serious, we balance it out with light-hearted moments, sharing survival tips,and of course jokes.

Join us as we explore the critical role of private sector resilience in national security, particularly during significant events like the G8 summit. Ian shares his extensive experience on the coordination between military, law enforcement, and private sectors to protect critical infrastructure. Reflecting on the profound impact of 9-11, we emphasize the importance of staying motivated and making a positive impact in daily life. Whether you’re a small business owner or looking to enhance your personal preparedness, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice to help you move forward with confidence.

What critical lessons can small business owners learn from historical crises? Join us as we uncover the importance of consulting seasoned professionals to avoid common pitfalls and share how costly real-time learning can be by drawing parallels to the Spanish flu. Ian Hayden rejoins us to share his international adventures and exclusive finds, including rare whiskey bottles from the Czech Republic. We also reflect on the lasting significance of 9/11, honoring the memory of that impactful day and discussing its aftermath.

Relive the harrowing memories of the 9/11 attacks as we recount the chaos, confusion, and eerie silence in Atlanta. We'll explore the impact on future generations through a visit to the 9/11 museum and share practical advice on emergency communication. We also delve into the resilience required to run a business through major historical events like 9/11, the 2008 Great Recession, and the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the role of government support during these times, and paying tribute to the bravery of Air Force pilots on 9/11.

Discover strategies to manage overwhelming business challenges, inspired by historical figures like Winston Churchill. We emphasize the importance of community, personal responsibility, and unity in the face of divisive issues. Explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in various job sectors and gain insights into our upcoming travel plans and future projects. Tune in for a blend of practical business advice, intriguing global stories, and personal reflections, promising more engaging content and exciting stories to come.

Ever wondered how the world of small business ownership is like an exclusive country club? Buckle up for a rollercoaster of laughs and insights as we compare these seemingly unrelated worlds and share a hilarious night at a Harry Potter-themed baseball game. Our adventures set the stage for a deep dive into the real-life challenges faced by a couple dreaming of starting a charcuterie board company. With candid advice on managing expectations, creating a solid business plan, and the grit required for entrepreneurial success, we provide vital tips for anyone considering taking the leap.

But that's just the beginning! Jeremy joins us to reveal the game-changing power of mastermind groups in the entrepreneurial journey. Learn how these collaborative sessions have been pivotal in launching multi-million dollar businesses and breaking down personal and professional barriers. We tackle the common hurdles of time and money, emphasizing the tremendous benefits of dedicating time for in-depth business work. Discover the importance of leveraging your unique strengths and the invaluable support network that mastermind groups provide.

Thinking about joining or starting a mastermind group? We've got you covered! We explore the detailed application process, the shift to hybrid models for nationwide participation, and the essential traits of successful mastermind candidates. From the importance of candid feedback to the dynamics of various group sizes, we discuss everything you need to know to thrive in a mastermind setting. With a mix of playful banter and actionable insights, this episode promises to leave you inspired and well-equipped to tackle your entrepreneurial dreams.

Ever wondered what it's like to juggle the unpredictable nature of small business ownership while maintaining a good laugh? Join us on the Small Business Safari Adventure as we kick off with a side-splitting tale of peeking into a dark room, setting the stage for our high-energy chat. Alan and I delve into the rollercoaster of running a small business, sharing smart strategies to navigate its ups and downs. I also recount a memorable trip to North Carolina to celebrate a friend's appointment as a Superior Court judge, complete with the fascinating tradition of engraved guns and a chat about concealed carry laws. 

Meet Carl, our special guest and an adjunct professor at Georgia, who shares his incredible journey back to his family's wedding and prom apparel business. From his early days in the business to pursuing a master's degree in clinical social work, Carl's story is a testament to resilience and adaptability. We also touch on his mother’s extraordinary leadership after his father's passing and indulge in some nostalgic banter about tuxedo styles from past decades. Carl’s insights on the complexities of family business transitions are a goldmine for anyone navigating similar waters.

Ready to maximize your business value? We discuss the merits of hiring a business broker and share real-life anecdotes that highlight the importance of expert advice. The episode also touches on the emotional journey of selling a business, likened to the culmination of an Olympic athlete's years of training. With a mix of heartfelt stories and practical advice, we aim to motivate and entertain, leaving you with valuable insights whether you're in the thick of a family business or contemplating an exit strategy. Don’t miss out on this lively discussion packed with humor, wisdom, and a nostalgic trip down memory lane!