Unscripted Small Business

In this engaging conversation, Larry and Sue Pruett share their journey of marriage, homeschooling, and entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of communication, mutual respect, and the foundational elements that have helped them maintain a strong marriage over 35 years. The Pruetts also delve into their experiences in e-commerce, the challenges of working together as a couple in business, and the significance of prioritizing their relationship to succeed in both marriage and entrepreneurship. Their insights provide valuable advice for couples looking to navigate the complexities of running a business together while maintaining a healthy relationship. Key Takeaways: The foundations of marriage enable business success together. Communication creates connection in relationships and in business. Thirty-five years of marriage provides tested wisdom. Homeschooling taught alternative approaches to life. Twenty-one years of entrepreneurship experience guides others. Connect time strengthens daily marriage relationships. Difficult conversations prevent relationship breakdown. Side by side approach addresses problems as a team. Business roles may differ from home roles. Clear role definition prevents partnership conflicts.   Interested in working with Larry and Sue? Check out their website for a FREE connection card resource and to book a consultation call! 

Summary In this episode of Unscripted Small Business, host Zaneta Chuniq Inpower interviews Karen Aucoin, owner of JoBelle and Studio 131. Karen shares her entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges and pivots she faced while growing her business. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, networking, and organizational strategies in scaling a creative business. Karen also highlights the significance of empowering women in business and the future trends in the creative economy, encouraging listeners to pursue their passions fearlessly.   Takeaways Studio 131 began as a dance instruction space and evolved into a successful event venue. Entrepreneurship requires the ability to pivot and adapt to unexpected challenges. Collaboration with other businesses can lead to greater success and innovation. Delegation is crucial for growth, especially for women entrepreneurs. Using tools like Google Docs and CRMs can help maintain organization and efficiency. Creating packages that include multiple services can enhance client experience and profitability. Networking with competitors can foster collaboration rather than competition. Having a clear vision and planning ahead is essential for business success. Empowering women in business can lead to generational wealth and inspire future generations. The future of creative entrepreneurship lies in adaptability and embracing change.  

Summary In this Unscripted SEO conversation, Zaneta Chuniq Inpower interviews Lesle Lane, co-founder and lead photographer of Studio 13, about her journey in photography, the transition to B2B photography, and the impact of technology on the industry. Leslie shares insights on scaling her business, the importance of networking, and the role of mentorship in shaping the future of photography. The discussion also touches on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and the significance of authenticity in visual representation.   Takeaways Lesle Lane is a third-generation photographer specializing in B2B photography. Transitioning from portrait photography to B2B requires a different business approach. Networking is crucial for photographers to build relationships and gain clients. Technology has significantly changed photography, enhancing efficiency and quality. AI is impacting photography, but authenticity remains essential for client trust. Lesle emphasizes the importance of mentorship for aspiring photographers. Building a business requires strategic focus and delegation of tasks. SOPs and automation can help streamline business operations. Lesle's goal is to cultivate a successor for her business. Helping others in the industry is a key value for Lesle. 

In this episode of the Unscripted Podcast, Daniel Hill interviews Oreet Kaufman, a freelance PowerPoint designer from Chicago. Oreet discusses her journey into presentation design, emphasizing the importance of effective storytelling and audience engagement. She shares insights on the ideal number of slides, the role of AI in presentations, and common pitfalls to avoid. Oreet also highlights her success stories with clients and her approach to creating impactful presentations that resonate with audiences.

In this conversation, Claudia Rucker shares her journey and insights on helping small business owners transition from being owner-operators to effective leaders. She emphasizes the importance of purpose in business, the need for supportive teams, and the value of financial literacy. Claudia discusses the concept of fractional support and how it can help small businesses grow without overwhelming the owner. She also provides actionable steps for business owners to create a sellable business and highlights the importance of professional support in navigating the complexities of business growth. takeaways Claudia's purpose is to help people get unstuck. Fulfillment in business comes from having a clear purpose. Transitioning from owner to leader requires a mindset shift. Building a supportive team is essential for growth. Fractional support can help small businesses scale effectively. Financial literacy is crucial for business success. Creating a sellable business should be a goal for owners. Professional support can guide business owners through challenges. Actionable steps can lead to improved profitability and fulfillment. Self-reflection is key to understanding business goals.

In this conversation, Georgi Feidler shares her journey from being an accidental entrepreneur to a purposeful consultant. She discusses the importance of having entrepreneurial conversations at the dinner table, the skills gained from her corporate career, and how they translate into her consulting work. Georgi emphasizes the need for generalists in small businesses and the challenges faced by baby boomer business owners in succession planning. She highlights the emotional ties to businesses and the importance of mentorship in ensuring a smooth transition for future generations. The discussion also touches on the significance of finding the right fit for leadership roles and the balance between planning and surrendering to a greater purpose in business. Takeaways: A dream doesn't turn into a goal without a plan. Understanding your natural strengths is crucial for success. Generalists can provide the connective tissue for small businesses. Founders often feel lonely and need support. Tribal knowledge can hinder business scalability. Succession planning is essential for baby boomer business owners. Emotional ties to businesses complicate succession. Successors need to be forged over time, not just found. Mentorship is key in transitioning business knowledge. Creating structure protects legacy and freedom. Succession planning is crucial for business continuity. Mentorship plays a vital role in successful transitions. Documentation is essential for delegating responsibilities. Identifying single points of failure helps in succession planning. Hiring for character and connection is more important than credentials. Emotional intelligence is key in business handoffs. Delegation allows founders to step back and take breaks. The right successor can enhance team dynamics. Legacy planning should be a continuous process. Surrendering to purpose can lead to unexpected opportunities. Impactful Quotes: "Tribal knowledge is the enemy of succession. If it's in your head, that's not delegation. We can't delegate that, right? That doesn't exist." "Successors aren't found. They are forged over time."   "Structure is actually what protects freedom and that legacy."   "I think that founders are the lifeblood of innovation. They have an amazing potential to change the lives of their teammates, their family, and their community."   "I always say teams can be well-rounded, even though people can't."   "Hiring your successor isn't about finding the perfect person. It's about finding someone who makes the team more complete."   "The clearer that we can be upfront, the less frustration that we're going to create down the road."   "You can't train character. Connection is a very trusting...

  In this episode of the Unscripted Small Business Podcast, host Daniel Hill speaks with Drew Carmichael, a 19-year-old entrepreneur who runs a marketing agency called The Cultivator. Drew shares his journey from starting small businesses in school to establishing a successful marketing agency that focuses on helping e-commerce and service-based businesses scale. He discusses the importance of being open to opportunities, the decision to forgo university in favor of entrepreneurship, and the significance of SEO and data-driven marketing strategies for small businesses to drive increases in leads & revenue. Drew emphasizes the need for genuine relationships with clients and offers insights into effective marketing practices.  

  Show Notes: In this episode of Unscripted SEO, host Zaneta Chuniq Inpower sits down with Tatiana Zagorovski (also known as "Miss Z") of Trio Realty Partners to discuss her fascinating journey from a 23-year career in software development to becoming a successful real estate investor in St. Louis, Missouri. What You'll Learn: How Tatiana discovered her passion for real estate through a simple $27 online training course The challenges of transitioning careers and the importance of finding the right mentorship Tatiana's focus on three key real estate strategies: buying houses, fix and flips, and seller financing Common misconceptions about cash home buying and how honest investors operate Why proper analysis and understanding construction are crucial skills in real estate The people-centered nature of real estate and the importance of building a strong team How Trio Realty Partners goes above and beyond to help clients in difficult situations Tatiana's vision for building a legacy and helping others become homeowners Something as simple as a new application of professional paint can improve home value, making sure your AC is tuned up BEFORE it is inspected also can alleviate maintenance concerns What makes St. Louis an ideal market for real estate investment and family living Featured Guest: Tatiana Zagorovski is the founder of Trio Realty Partners in St. Louis, MO. After 23 years in software development, she made a career change to pursue her passion for real estate. Her company focuses on buying houses for cash, fix and flips, and seller financing to help people who might not qualify for traditional mortgages become homeowners. Connect with Tatiana: Phone: (314) 804-0777 Website: Trio Realty Partners, helping people buy homes in St. Louis Key Quotes: "Real estate has so many strategies and possibilities that anyone can find something in real estate." "We end up with trying to do everything and doing nothing." "There is no one solution to fit it all." "Real estate, it's a people business, its relationship, its connections, and it's relying on others on your team."...

Jeremy Rivera speaks with Zach Brown and Jared LeCroix from Majestic Photo Booth about their journey in the photo booth industry. They discuss the origins of their business, the evolution of photo booth technology, and how they have adapted to a growing market with innovative business models. The conversation also covers their unique approach to photo booth rentals, brand activations, partnerships with venues, and their vision for the future of Majestic Photo Booth as a leader in the industry.   Takeaways The idea for Majestic Photo Booth originated from a musician's need to fund his tours. The company started with vintage film photo booths before transitioning to digital. They tapped into the market through word of mouth and early SEO efforts. Majestic Photo Booth differentiates itself by maintaining a classic style while innovating. They offer a unique venue placement model that provides photo booths at no cost to venues. Brand activations are a key part of their business, allowing for customization and engagement. The photo booth experience is designed to create memorable moments for guests. They focus on providing high-quality outputs that guests can take home. Even if you're in a "boring" industry like commercial kitchen appliances, you can still build a memorable brand The company aims to expand into museums and sports arenas for greater reach. Continuous improvement is a core value, driving their mission to innovate in the photo booth industry.

Is your organization struggling with the revolving door of talent? In today's competitive market, retaining top performers requires more than competitive salaries—it demands a workplace where people feel valued, connected, and inspired to grow. Join Abbey Crane for an illuminating conversation with Francie Jain, founder of Terawatt, who reveals how her innovative approach to group coaching is revolutionizing how companies invest in their most valuable asset: their people. Francie shares why her marketplace model is making professional development accessible beyond the C-suite: "We really push group coaching because it's much more affordable. If you're a CEO or CFO, you may get one-on-one coaching as part of your benefits package. Whereas if you're a practicing contributor, you're definitely not getting one-on-one coaching." What You'll Discover: The Real Cost of Burnout: Learn why employee disengagement isn't an individual failing but a symptom of system-wide dysfunction Success Story: How a group of doctors transformed their workplace dynamics through targeted communication coaching The "17 Touches" Principle: Why meaningful employee recognition might require more consistent effort than you think Generational Insights: Discover why accommodating Gen Z's workplace expectations creates a better environment for everyone "If you feel like you could just be as miserable, $10,000 more a year is a worthwhile reason to leave," explains Jain. "But if you felt like this was the most perfect job you've ever had, you wouldn't feel like an extra $10,000 would be worth it." Ready to transform your organization's approach to professional development and dramatically improve retention? This episode provides actionable insights every leader needs to hear. Visit terawatt.co to learn more about bringing affordable group coaching to your organization.   Other resources mentioned:  Lisa Gibson- Shine the Spotlight on you  Arianna Huffington- The Sleep Revolution

In this enlightening episode, marketing expert Angela Frank shares her revolutionary "marketing ecosystem strategy" and why focusing on a single channel is the secret to scaling your business. As a fractional CMO who has helped clients manage marketing budgets of up to a million dollars per month, Angela breaks down why entrepreneurs should resist the temptation to be everywhere at once and instead, master one platform before expanding. Key Takeaways: Why the "do more by doing less" philosophy is crucial for marketing success How to identify which single marketing channel will work best for your specific business The value of a fractional CMO versus hiring in-house marketing leadership Why creating a cohesive "marketing ecosystem" with a through-line across all efforts drives better results How to determine your ideal customer profile (ICP) and find where they're hanging out online Practical ways to use ChatGPT to enhance (not replace) your marketing efforts The surprising resurgence of Reddit as an effective marketing channel Resources Mentioned: Want even more help with your marketing? Join the FREE Membership Program: Marketing Accelerator  Interested in working with Angela? Check out her website here!  For more marketing tips, listen to The Growth Pod podcast!  Angela's Book: Your Marketing Ecosystem (DM Angela on LinkedIn for a FREE copy!) Angela's LinkedIn: Connect with Angela on LinkedIn for marketing insights, learn about her fractional CMO services, and DM her for your FREE copy of her book! Marketing Tools Mentioned: ChatGPT, HubSpot, Canva, CapCut 

In this episode of the Unscripted Small Business Podcast, our new host, digital marketing consultant Zaneta Chunique Inpower speaks with Miles Johnson, an elected official in Ingham County, about his role in the Lansing community. They discuss various topics including community development projects, food deserts, youth empowerment, and economic initiatives. Miles shares his passion for advocating for the youth and the importance of local politics, encouraging listeners to get involved in their communities. He also offers advice for aspiring political leaders and emphasizes the significance of representation in public service. takeaways Miles Johnson is an elected official in Ingham County. He represents South Lansing and is involved in community development. There are new projects in South Lansing, including a bank and health system. Food deserts are a significant issue in South Lansing. Youth empowerment is a top priority for Miles Johnson. Economic development is crucial for the community's growth. Community members can get involved by attending local meetings. Local politics are essential for making a difference. Representation in politics is vital for diverse perspectives. Starting small can lead to significant changes in the community.

In this conversation, Jeremy Rivera interviews Tyler Mumford, the owner of Grind Time Stump Grinding, about his unique journey from a corporate sales job to running a niche stump grinding business. Tyler shares insights on transitioning from B2B to B2C, building an online presence, navigating regulations, and the importance of branding.   He discusses his growth plans, seasonal strategies, and the value of collaborations and referrals in the service industry. Tyler also offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to enter niche markets.   takeaways Stump grinding is a loud and dirty process, but it's PG. Tyler transitioned from a corporate sales job to entrepreneurship. Initially, Tyler focused solely on B2B for his stump grinding business. Cold texting tree companies was the starting point for Tyler's business. Tyler aims to grow his business but is uncertain about the future. There are minimal regulations for stump grinding businesses. The name 'Grind Time' was chosen for its simplicity and appeal. Tyler operated without a website for the first few months. If you're trying to grow a brand, it doesn't matter if you're saving commercial kitchens on cost, or laying down concrete, you have to remember the value of testimonials from satisfied clients. Winter is used to up level the business and plan for the future. Asphalt contractors should account for varied weather too. Building referral relationships is crucial for business growth, for example he often sends business to land clearing, tree trimming and landscape partners.

In this engaging conversation, Abbey Crane interviews Brandon Barnum, known as the 'King of Referrals.' Brandon shares his inspiring journey from struggling financially to becoming a successful figure in the mortgage industry, emphasizing the importance of referrals in business. He discusses mindset shifts, strategies for building referral partnerships, and effective networking techniques, especially for introverts. The conversation also touches on the role of community in business, the balance between automation and personal touch in follow-ups, and the future of AI in relationship building. Brandon concludes with valuable insights on asking for referrals and the importance of trying new things to succeed.   Takeaways: Brandon Barnum's journey from $20K to $200K in income. The significance of referrals in B2B sales. Building reciprocal referral partnerships is crucial. Networking events should be approached strategically. Understanding personalities can enhance networking effectiveness. Community engagement is vital in a digital landscape. Follow-up is key to maintaining relationships. Automation should complement personal outreach. AI is transforming relationship building in business. Asking for referrals is essential for growth.   Resources Mentioned:  Buy Brandon's book, Raving Referrals here!  Why They Buy  The One Minute Millionaire The Gap and the Gain ravingreferrals.com hoa.com

Summary In this engaging conversation, Jeremy Rivera and Melinda Martin explore the multifaceted world of publishing, discussing the importance of trust, the role of personal stories and tragedies in storytelling, and the differences between self-publishing and traditional publishing. Melinda shares her insights on the investment required for quality publishing, the impact of AI on the industry, and the evolving landscape of book marketing in a digital age. The discussion emphasizes the balance between technology and authenticity, highlighting the human experience in the creative process.   Key Takeaways   The publishing industry spans from simple self-publishing to establishing professional publishing businesses, with varying levels of investment and quality Professional printing offers substantial advantages over print-on-demand, including specialized features (spot UV, debossing, linen covers, foil elements) that aren't available through platforms like Amazon Authors can create multiple revenue streams beyond traditional bookstore sales, including school visits, direct sales, and digital products Self-publishing has evolved to rival traditional publishing quality as authors gain access to professional printers and industry knowledge Traditional publishing requires finding an agent who then pitches to publishing houses, often resulting in a two-year (or longer) process with no guarantee of publication There's growing tension between AI-generated content and human creativity, with many creatives opposing AI use in book creation   Killer Quotes "So many people in the publishing business, the publishing industry, they started a publishing business because they see it as a cash cow. They play on people's emotions and it is such a predatory industry. And I did not start this business. I really didn't even set out to start a business. The business just kind of found me." — Melinda Martin "I am a good fit for someone, then we work hard at being a great team and publishing a quality book for their audience." — Melinda Martin "Self-publishing has evolved so that it can now rival what you see in the traditional publishing realm. And that's because we now have access to these printers. We now have the internet where we can tap into the knowledge base of how traditional publishing works. And we can replicate that in our own business." — Melinda Martin "Publishing for profit is a long game if you're doing the professional printing way of doing things." — Melinda Martin "We need more than just the creative speaking out against the use of AI because the authors and the publishers are the ones that are making these long-term decisions to embrace AI or to embrace humanity." — Melinda Martin "Picture books were a world for me to dive into... The majority of the authors I'm working with now, they are just wanting to make that same impact that picture books had on them." — Melinda Martin Relevant Resources Discussed & Mentioned: Melinda Martin on Instagram https://www.nashvilletnlaw.com/the-last-electric-chair-execution/ The Odd Dog Jeremy Rivera's self published SEO book

In this conversation, Jeff Revilla shares his journey from skateboarding entrepreneur to digital marketing expert and podcast studio owner. He discusses the evolution of podcasting, the challenges he faced in building his studio, and his vision for creating a unique live podcasting experience. Jeff emphasizes the importance of community, creativity, and fostering a supportive environment for podcasters. He also shares insights on the future of his studio and the philosophy behind his business model, which aims to remove risks for content creators while promoting collaboration and growth. Inspiring Quotes From the Conversation: "Podcasting is the creator, producer, and complete control of your content and destiny. There's no more DIY than podcasting." "The ability to feel safe and to laugh is what really sparks creativity. If you're tense, you'll hold back." "This theater is becoming the pivot point, the Lynch pin that's building this community of live podcasting." "As a fan, you get to see the podcast up on stage, meet the host, shake their hands and say thank you. That's an experience you don't get just by clicking subscribe." "You have to be excellent to each other. If you live your life serving others, being excellent, being a great host, and providing what people need, imagine what the world could be." Key Takeaways: Podcasting has evolved dramatically since its early days in 2006-2007. Five generations are simultaneously experiencing digital transformation. Live podcasting creates deeper connections between creators and audiences. The "infinite seat theater" concept removes capacity limitations. Removing financial risk for creators encourages experimentation. Community-building through meetups accelerates business growth. Revenue-sharing models align venue and creator interests. Creating safe spaces fosters creativity and innovation. Digital marketing skills are transferable across industries. Authenticity and playfulness strengthen audience relationships.   Listen to Jeff's podcast here!  For booking information on Poduty Live, click here!  Other showcase mentioned: Rise and Outshine 

In this conversation, Shahar Boyayan discusses the intersection of consumer behavior and AI, exploring how AI is transforming consumer interactions and business operations. She emphasizes the importance of understanding consumer behavior in the context of AI advancements, the pros and cons of AI in daily life, and the ethical implications of its use. Shahar also shares insights on how small businesses can integrate AI, the significance of market research, and the need for authenticity in marketing. She concludes with advice for entrepreneurs on overcoming fear and embracing change to succeed in a rapidly evolving landscape. Key Takeaways: AI adoption is happening whether businesses are aware or not, requiring trusted internet service providers Automation can free entrepreneurs to focus on growth. Five generations are simultaneously experiencing AI transformation. Authenticity matters more as technology advances. Balance is crucial between AI efficiency and human connection. Critical thinking prevents over-reliance on AI. Small businesses should start automation with 10+ customers. Systematizing operations enables business scaling. Creative outlets help maintain mental health amid technology. Transparency builds stronger customer relationships.   Interested in how PropTalkie could help your business? Click here to learn more!  Other project mentioned: Unleash your creativity with online art classes at curiousmondo.com  

In this engaging conversation, Anna Rósa Parker shares her journey from Iceland to New York, exploring her transformation from a theater actor to a lifestyle mentor and executive coach. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling in both personal and professional realms, highlighting how intuition and authenticity play crucial roles in personal development and branding. Anna discusses the challenges of navigating stuckness, the significance of curiosity, and the impact of AI on storytelling. She also shares insights on building a personal brand, the importance of empathy, and her upcoming app that merges technology with coaching. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anna Rósa Parker03:57 From Theater to Coaching: A Journey of Self-Discovery07:08 The Art of Storytelling in Coaching10:00 Intuition and Creativity: Tapping into Inner Wisdom12:48 Creating Your Own Life: Understanding Worthiness16:06 Navigating Stuckness: Simplifying Life and Work19:02 The Role of the Body in Authentic Living21:45 Curiosity as a Driving Force24:36 Reinventing Routines for Entrepreneurs29:44 Building Confidence and Authenticity in Branding31:10 The Role of Storytelling in Brand Development33:11 Leading with Heart: Authenticity in Teams34:39 Values and Integrity in Business36:34 The Impact of Technology on Branding and Storytelling40:55 Creating an App: Merging Ideas and Technology43:15 Empathy and Community Engagement in Entrepreneurship46:22 Understanding Roots: Compassion and Empathy49:04 Curiosity and Creativity in Daily Life50:58 Knowing Your Story to Shape Your Future  Interested in learning more about the E.V.O.K.E Method or working with Anna? Click here! 

In this conversation, Jeremy Rivera speaks with filmmaker Vega Montañez about his journey from music to filmmaking, the impact of streaming platforms on the industry, and the challenges of marketing films in the digital age.   They discuss the importance of the theater experience, the need for in-person engagement, and the evolution of internet discovery. In this conversation, Vega Montañez and Jeremy Rivera explore the complexities of independence, the impact of nostalgia on storytelling, the challenges of introducing new intellectual properties in the film industry, and the evolving landscape of streaming versus theatrical releases.   They also discuss the flawed metrics used to evaluate films and the importance of representing life experiences beyond traditional narratives, particularly for young adults. Vega shares insights into his current projects, emphasizing the need for diverse storytelling. takeaways Vega Montañez transitioned from a music career to filmmaking. His first film was self-produced with the help of friends. Streaming platforms have changed the landscape for indie filmmakers. The theater experience offers a unique engagement that streaming cannot replicate. In-person marketing events can create stronger connections with audiences. Digital marketing often lacks effective options for film promotion. The distractions of home viewing can diminish the movie experience. HBO could capitalize on its cinematic TV shows by screening them in theaters. The internet has shifted from exploration to algorithm-driven content consumption. Memorable experiences are crucial for audience retention. Independence is often an illusion shaped by external factors. Nostalgia influences our consumption of media, often at the expense of innovation. New stories struggle to emerge in a market dominated by sequels and franchises. The film industry needs to take more risks on new intellectual properties.

In this conversation, Jeremy Rivera interviews Cari McGee, a seasoned Washington real estate agent & Broker, about her journey in the industry since 2004. They discuss the evolution of digital marketing, the importance of social media, and the power of storytelling in real estate. Cari shares her experiences with clients, emphasizing the emotional aspects of buying and selling homes. She also highlights her community engagement through the Rockstar Rewards Program and the significance of local connections. The conversation touches on the balance between technology and personal interaction in real estate, as well as the insights gained from nonverbal communication during client interactions. In this conversation, Cari McGee and Jeremy Rivera explore the intricate dynamics of real estate transactions, emphasizing the importance of understanding human cues and personality types. They discuss how these elements influence communication and marketing strategies, particularly in the context of digital marketing. The conversation also delves into the differences between residential and commercial real estate, the impact of seasonality on sales, and the significance of maintaining a proactive mindset in the industry. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the need for realtors to adapt their approaches based on client personalities and market conditions. Cari has been a real estate agent since 2004. Having a personal website gave Carrie an early advantage. Facebook became Carrie's primary social media platform. Storytelling is crucial in connecting with clients. The Rockstar Rewards Program fosters community engagement. Building local connections enhances business success. Technology cannot replace the human touch in real estate. Nonverbal communication is key in understanding clients. Maintaining relationships with clients is essential for long-term success. The cost of acquiring new clients is higher than retaining existing ones. Understanding human cues is crucial in real estate transactions. Client interviews can provide valuable insights for marketing strategies. Different personality types require tailored communication approaches. Digital marketing should consider personality types for effective content. Residential and commerc...