Small Business Squad

<p>A space for advocates of small business, supporters of buying local, and business/ nonprofit leaders to share knowledge, collaborate and gain valuable information. This community is for small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and advocates of local economies everywhere. Together we will strengthen local economies, keep dollars in our community, and stay competitive against large corporations. This community is committed to advocating for small businesses and supporting local economies. Please find us on our Facebook Group, Youtube, and at BecomeDistinct.com. We also encourage you to invite your awesome friends and connections who would greatly benefit from this group.</p>

Turning Insurance into Impact: Megan Rubeck’s Story of Growth, Grit, and Customer Care

In this episode of the Small Business Squad, we sit down with Megan Rubick, co-owner of Allied Insurance Agency with locations in Brazil and Terre Haute, Indiana. Megan shares her unexpected journey from nursing to insurance, the lessons learned through acquiring a business, and how she and her husband Scott are redefining what it means to be “risk advisors.” She opens up about the power of documentation, the importance of teamwork, and why strong client relationships are at the heart of thei...

06-27
33:11

From Factory Floors to Coffee Pour: How Jordy Built a Buzz with Jordy's Coffee Corner

In this episode of the Small Business Squad, we're joined by Jordy Wiegand, the energetic owner of Jordy’s Coffee Corner in Spencer, Indiana. What started as a dream inspired by coffee shacks in Alaska has quickly become a beloved local staple—serving not only top-tier coffee but also laughs and loyalty. Jordy shares how he went from working in utilities and factories to running a one-person mobile coffee business, complete with hilarious marketing videos and community-driven success. We dive...

06-25
22:54

Expanding Horizons: Supporting and Learning in Our Local Business Community

In this episode, we dive into the resilience of small business owners navigating downtown construction and expanding their presence. Brit’s Blooming Boutique shares exciting updates, including new locations in Crawfordsville, Brazil, Rockville, and even an out-of-state venture in South Haven, Michigan. We discuss the importance of supporting local businesses, creative ways to navigate road closures, and why shopping small makes a huge difference. Tune in to hear how these entrepreneurs are th...

03-21
17:46

Empowering Small Businesses with Health Insurance Insights

Join Vince from Distinct as he sits down with Aaron Miller, Director of Operations at Iconic Insurance, to explore his entrepreneurial journey, insights into the health insurance industry, and how small businesses can benefit from customizable and affordable health coverage options. Discover practical strategies, valuable lessons from startups, and how relationships drive success in business. Don't miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable advice for entrepreneurs and small busin...

03-14
42:58

The Rise of A Fungus Amoung Us: A Small Business Success Story

In this episode of the Small Business Squad, we sit down with Amy Rednauer, owner of A Fungus Amoung Us, a first-generation mushroom farm in Spencer, Indiana. What started as a small home experiment during the pandemic has grown into a successful business supplying fresh and dehydrated mushrooms, seasonings, extracts, and even mushroom coffee to local stores and restaurants. Amy shares her journey of turning a passion into a business, the challenges of educating customers about gourmet mushro...

02-18
41:00

Turning Video Into Revenue

In this episode, discover how simple, consistent video content can revolutionize your business. Learn why video is essential in today's digital landscape, how it builds relationships at scale, and why anyone can start creating impactful content without fancy equipment or complex editing. We'll dive into creative tips, strategies to overcome mental barriers, and how video can drive engagement and revenue growth. Whether you're targeting a niche market or a broader audience, this episode will ...

01-08
17:05

Building Connections, Community, and a Thriving Business with Heather Taylor

Discover how Heather Taylor turned challenges into opportunities, becoming a successful business owner with a focus on connection and community impact. Hear her inspiring story about starting from scratch, navigating hurdles, and leading with purpose. Watch now to learn the keys to growth, resilience, and making a meaningful difference. #BusinessLeadership #CommunityImpact #SmallBusinessSuccess #SmallBusinessSquad Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Rv8hVwnfY0U

11-21
36:52

Turning Passion into Purpose: Kayla Brennan's Journey with Afterglow Aesthetics

Kayla Brennan, founder of Afterglow Aesthetics in Greencastle, IN, followed her drive to improve lives and opened a space where people feel renewed inside and out. She brings a personal touch to wellness, offering everything from energy-boosting vitamin therapies to beauty treatments that inspire confidence. Discover her story of resilience, balance, and commitment to uplifting others. #AfterglowAesthetics #WellnessJourney #FeelYourBest

11-12
24:08

Small Business Growth and Community Impact

Join us on The Small Business Squad Podcast as Vince Aguirre sits down with Britt Overshiner, owner of Britt's Blooming Boutique. Dive into an inspiring conversation about business growth, community engagement, and the journey of entrepreneurship in Greencastle, Indiana. Discover valuable insights, personal stories, and the importance of community support in small business success. Tune in for an episode full of inspiration and practical advice! #SmallBusinessSquad #EntrepreneurshipJourney #C...

04-08
53:45

Unlocking Video Marketing Success: Simple Strategies for Every Business

Video Marketing Made Easy and Impactful 🎥🌟 Dive into the world of effective video marketing without the need for high-end equipment or complex editing. Learn how to create engaging content simply using your smartphone, and understand the importance of concise messaging – keeping it under 60 seconds for maximum platform compatibility. Discover the power of LinkedIn for professional outreach and TikTok for broader demographic engagement. Embrace the ease of list building for business growth, an...

03-11
26:18

Beyond The Launch: Recruiting & Retaining Employees

Today, it's a constant struggle to find and retain skilled and dedicated employees. What are the values and benefits that can create loyalty? How can a business build and grow a stable workforce? Paul Jedele, of Jedele Enterprises, a McDonald's restaurant franchise owner, joins Ken and Aaron for a discussion of his restaurant's methods, processes, and programs to hire and develop productive and engaged employees.

10-03
36:20

Beyond The Launch: Gathering Information-Simply

Access to information about your business and customers can be captured with the proper tools, simply. Each purchase contains valuable information to help you operate your business efficiently and increase revenue. Our guest, Jonathan McPike, a founding partner of Haven, a software company focused on Main Street businesses. He will discuss with Ken and Vince how gathering information through an integrated program can simplify team communication, cash flows, and forecasting ...

09-19
29:34

Leading Yourself

Leadership starts at the top; entrepreneurs and owners who lead by example, empower people, and create impact set the tone and culture of an enterprise. Our guest, CoraLyn Turentine, is the founder of Mental Health Matters and a proponent of Resilient Leadership for Corporate Professionals. Vince and Ken talk with her about leadership today and why it's important to manage yourself and how it benefits the leader and the business.

09-01
27:20

The Responsibility of a Business Owner During Uncertain Times

Navigating operations, employee issues, retention, and customer service during a time of receding business revenue.

08-24
36:15

Beyond The Launch: Responding to a Changing Economy

The economy is constantly changing, and as a business owner you need to be prepared for anything. Listen to this podcast for insights on how to respond to a changing economy. You'll learn about different recession-proof strategies, and how to keep your business afloat during tough times!

08-10
22:13

Small Business Stories featuring Marc Ward

Marc Ward joins the SBS podcast to discuss his company, Socian Technologies, and his efforts to support underrepresented business founders. 7:10 Eliminating 'Future Me's' from Destroying the Earth 10:04 Building Technology for the Community 12:30 How Socian Technologies Differs from Other Tech Companies 14:37 Don't Be Afraid Of Trying The New Technologies 15:47 How Can Technology Save Lives 19:07 Challenges That Helped You Grow

05-23
28:02

Beyond The Launch: Discover Your Business Opportunities & Threats

The customers and community were excited, yet a few months or years in, something has changed. Join Vince, Ken, and guest Dave Bittner of the Indiana Small Business Development Center, for a discussion on utilizing your business' strengths and recognizing its weaknesses to energize and grow your business going forward. View part one here: https://becomedistinct.com/blog/beyond-the-launch-discover-your-business-strengths-weaknesses/

04-25
47:05

Beyond the Launch: Discover Your Business Strengths & Weaknesses

You've launched; the customers and community were excited, yet a few months or years in, something has changed. Join Vince, Ken, and guest Dave Bittner of the Indiana Small Business Development Center, for a discussion on utilizing your business' strengths and recognizing its weaknesses to energize and grow your business going forward. Dave Bittner is a Rural Business Advisor for the West Central Indiana Small Business Development Center. Dave and the WCISBDC team provide advising, tra...

04-08
54:10

After The Launch - My Business Vision is Clouded!

Many businesses never really take the time to define their mission and vision. Without a defined mission and vision, your business can quickly lose focus and drift off in the wrong direction. After The Launch is a podcast that will help you define your mission and vision for your business, and then show you how to implement them so you can see real results.

03-14
47:43

Zoho One - The Operating System For Businesses

Join us at this free event to talk about how small businesses can save thousands of dollars per year while optimizing their workflows to save precious time. You'll learn more about Zoho One and the services it provides for small business owners. We'll also have a Q&A session where you can ask questions and get answers! Zoho One is your one-stop shop for all of your business needs. Zoho offers a suite of tools that allow you to streamline processes and save time, money, and hassle without...

02-21
44:20

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