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Ready to leave the small business struggle behind? The “School for Small Business” podcast supports small business owners in scaling a business that is profitable, purposeful, and doesn’t leave you burnt out. No matter whether you run your business online or you own a brick-and-mortar, you can expect our world class experts to support you with mindset, tactics, and everything in between so you can have the business you dreamed of. Based on our lived experience, we know that small business CAN be easy and we are here to show you how.The “School for Small Business” is hosted by Staci Millard, a CPA by trade with over 15 years of experience seeing the behind the scenes of thousands of small businesses. After growing and selling her first 7 figure business, Staci has been on the ground running - mentoring small businesses and working to increase success rates. Staci strongly believes you don’t need to have gone to business school to be successful so you can expect nothing but simple, impactful advice. Tune in each Tuesday for a new 30 minute or less episode of nothing but valuable advice to help you grow your small business. We are so excited for you to be on this journey with us!
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In today’s episode, I’m joined by Emily Van Straten, host of Your Gen Z Coworker and founder of Think HR. We dig into the generational shift happening in the workforce and how small business owners can better understand, support, and retain Gen Z team members. From honest conversations to evolving leadership styles, Emily brings a fresh perspective that’ll leave you rethinking how you hire and lead. Key topics covered: Emily’s “career bachelorette” journey and how trying 14 jobs led her to la...
Welcome back to Small Business School, Are you actively collecting feedback from your clients and team—or are you just guessing what needs improvement? I get it — hearing constructive criticism can be tough, but when you learn to ask the right questions and embrace what you hear, incredible growth follows. Tune in to discover practical tips on how to gather, analyze, and apply feedback in a way that drives your business forward. Key topics covered: Asking the Right Questions: Focus on o...
In this episode of Small Business School, I sit down with Kelly Lorenzen, CEO of KLM Consulting. With over 22 years of business ownership experience, Kelly shares her insights on scaling a small business by focusing on what you love and outsourcing the rest. From building the right team to embracing technology, Kelly’s advice is packed with actionable steps for busy entrepreneurs. Key topics covered: Outsource Smartly: Identify tasks that are repetitive and low-expertise. Document these proce...
In this episode, we dive into the powerful impact of creating your own CEO mission statement — a guiding tool that keeps you focused, intentional, and confident in your leadership role. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck in the day-to-day, this episode will help you step back, refocus, and lead with purpose. Key topics covered: Why You Need a CEO Mission Statement: Discover how defining your personal leadership mission can improve decision-making, delegation, and overall business gro...
In this episode, I chat with recruitment expert Meghan Houle about what it takes to hire top talent for your small business. Meghan shares her insights from years of working with luxury brands and offers practical tips for finding and retaining the right people. Whether you're scaling your team or making your first hire, this episode is packed with advice to set you up for success. Key topics covered: Hire Before You Need To: Avoid last-minute, rushed hiring decisions by building a pipeline o...
In this episode of Small Business School, we dive into the important topic of recognizing industry trends and staying relevant in a constantly shifting market. I share my own struggles with this process and offer practical advice on how to spot meaningful changes without feeling overwhelmed. Key topics covered: Understand Consumer Behavior: Stay aware of changing buying patterns — what customers wanted last year may not be what they want now.Embrace Technology & Automation: Don't le...
In this episode, I sit down with Laura Sinclair, a strategic business mentor and founder of This Mother Means Business. We dive into the real, unfiltered challenges of running a business while being a mom—not the "pink and fluffy" version, but the truth about boundaries, burnout, and the power of community. If you’ve ever felt like you're juggling too much and no one is talking about it, this conversation is for you. Key topics covered: Why the conversation around motherhood and entrepr...
Welcome back to our Business Builders series in Small Business School! If your business feels more complicated than it should be, you’re not alone. Many entrepreneurs think growth means adding more—more offers, more processes, more tools—but in reality, the businesses that scale the fastest are the ones that simplify. In this episode, we’re diving into how you can streamline your operations, reduce overwhelm, and grow with ease. Key topics covered: Why complexity slows you down and make...
Welcome back Small Business Builders! Today, I sat down with Sarah Lambert, a mom of two turned entrepreneur who’s built a seven-figure business helping women make a massive impact while transforming their confidence and freedom. Together we dive into the surprising power of slowing down, breaking free from autopilot, and challenging the hustle mindset to create space for more joy, fulfillment, and success in life and business. Key topics covered: Sarah’s inspiring entrepreneuria...
In this installment of Business Builders, we are diving deep into a crucial mindset shift every scaling business owner needs, focusing on profit over revenue. It’s easy to get caught up chasing more sales, but what really matters is how much you’re actually keeping in the business. Let’s put our CEO hats on and get real about profitability! Key topics covered: Revenue vs. Profit: Why growing revenue isn’t always the win it seems if profit margins remain razor-thin.Understanding the Thr...
Ever wondered what it’s like to go from solo entrepreneurship to a thriving business partnership? In this episode, I sit down with Dana Clark, founder of Cool to Connect, and Portia Chambers, founder of The We Experience. These two incredible women built their own businesses and later joined forces to create We Connect. From complete strangers to business partners and best friends, they share how prioritizing relationship-building set the foundation for their success. Together we dive into th...
In this episode of the Business Builders series, we're diving into the comparison trap, that sneaky mindset challenge that can slow you down while scaling your business. If you've ever found yourself looking at others and wondering why they seem to be growing faster, you're not alone. Today, we're tackling how to stay focused on your own scaling journey without getting too distracted by what others are doing. Key topics covered: The dangers of comparing your backstage to someone else’s highl...
On today’s episode of Small Business School, I am so excited to chat with Kareen Walsh, a recovering people pleaser turned alignment activist and seven-figure entrepreneur. Kareen shares her journey of integrating life and business, breaking free from burnout, and designing a business that fuels her life. If you're looking to scale your business with balance and intention or you just need a nudge to start asking bigger questions, this episode is for you! Topics Covered: Why aligning y...
Hey Business Builders! In this episode of Small Business School, we're diving into the smart way to scale your business. You don’t want to just grow for growth's sake, you need to know the right time to expand and the time to stabilize. If you've ever felt torn between chasing new opportunities and maintaining your current operations, this one's for you. Let's put on that CEO hat and get strategic about growth! Key topics covered: How to recognize when it's time to scale and when it’s time t...
In today’s exciting installment of Small Business School, I am joined by Palak Dave, a mission-driven entrepreneur, experience expert, speaker and author of Beautiful Everydays: A Guide to Living in the Here and Now. Palak is a former award-winning marketer with senior roles at Toronto International Film Festival and Indigo Books and Music, Palak founded Embiria in 2017, which has since evolved to Embiria Social Club, a community helping women feel more fulfilled in their everyday lives. She ...
Hey Business Builders! In this episode we are talking about evolving your offers. Do your offers still serve your business the way they should? As your business grows, not everything should come along for the ride. Today, we’re breaking down how to assess, tweak, or cut what you're selling so you can scale with clarity and confidence. Key topics covered: How to assess profitability and scalability in your offersWhy alignment with your vision is key to sustainable growthUnderstanding customer...
Welcome back to Small Business School! Today I am excited to chat with Jamie Cornish, co-founder of TGIM Local, a business coaching and consulting company where she helps entrepreneurs grow through powerful marketing strategies and paid advertising. Jamie has a background in direct response marketing, and has helped many business owners simplify their marketing and attract their dream clients. Together we discuss the importance of understanding your marketing spend, leveraging your time, and...
Hey Business Builder owners! Part 4 of this series is all about stepping into your CEO role and carving out the time you need to focus on the big picture. We’re talking about how to break free from the daily grind, think strategically, and lead your business toward long-term growth. Let’s dive in and start building that CEO muscle! Key topics covered: The difference between working in your business vs. working on it. Why being stuck in the daily grind limits growth and how to shift in...
In this episode of Small Business School! Today, I’m diving into a question from our community: is brick and mortar still worth it? I don’t think brick and mortar is dead, but as with everything in your small business, it’s important to consider the pros and cons intentionally. In this episode I’ll break down what I see happening with in-person spaces, why human connection is key, and how to decide if a physical location is right for you! Key topics covered: Why human connection might...
In today’s episode of Small Business School I am sitting down with Emily Lauren Dick, a multi-passionate feminist entrepreneur, marketer, and author. She helps small women-owned businesses grow their online presence, wealth, and impact in the world with strategic branding and website design. Emily helps women stand out online without burning out! In our conversation, we talk about standing out online, building a cohesive brand strategy, and embracing your authenticity in business. Let’s dive...
By understanding just a few key metrics in your business you can set yourself up for immeasurably more success. On this episode of Business Builders, I want to dive into profit margins, cash flow, and revenue trends in order to help you step more into your CEO role to grow your business sustainably and with more clarity. Key topics covered: Profit Margins: Why knowing your revenue minus expenses is essential and how it reveals your business's health.Cash Flow: Understanding the timing of mon...
Welcome to Small Business School! Today I'm chatting with Amy Sussex, an operations manager who specializes in making life easier for small business owners through The Business Management Co. The Business Management Co. streamlines client and team processes, freeing up founders to focus on growth without getting bogged down by day to day demands. In this conversation, Amy dives into the art of creating meaningful customer experiences that leave lasting impressions and strong client rel...
This week on Small Business School I’m joined by the incredible LaShonda Brown, award-winning tech educator, YouTube Coach. Through her educational company, Bootstrap Biz Advice, LaShonda teaches service providers worldwide how to work less & live more by leveraging tech and YouTube. LaShonda believes there is no shame in bootstrapping and her trainings will help you keep your expenses low and your profit margin high while you DIY. LaShonda heavily advocates for sustainable, healthy rhyth...
Welcome back business builders! In this week's episode I want to cover overcoming the critical shift from a startup mindset to stepping into the role of strategic CEO. Be honest with yourself, how much time are you spending working in your business vs on it? If you’re ready to stop being the bottleneck in your business, stuck doing day-to-day tasks and you want to start reclaiming your time, this episode is for you! It’s time to step into your role as the visionary leader! Key topics ...
In today’s episode of Small Business School, I am joined by Vanessa Locicero, a lawyer and business and energetic mentor helping entrepreneurs master legal protection, secure their business and align with their higher purpose. As a chef turned lawyer, Vanessa’s mission is to help heart-centred individuals turn their dreams and inspirations into a reality on a solid legal foundation through accessible legal tools, mentorship and community. Together we dive into what you need to know to build ...
Hey business builders! In today’s episode I want to talk about revisiting and refining your vision while we are still in that new year energy. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, your vision is the foundation that guides everything you do. It’s time to align, refine, and ensure your goals feel right for where you are at right now. Let’s dive in together! Topics Covered: Why revisiting your vision is crucial, especially as your business grows.3 Key questions to realign your vision...
In today’s episode of Small Business School, I chat with Lauren Bercuson, founder of Storylock Legal. From legal briefs to library stacks and back again, Lauren Bercuson is not your average trademark attorney. Lauren is on a mission to demystify the often overwhelming world of intellectual property, turning it into a clear, manageable, and even enjoyable process for innovators and entrepreneurs. Armed with a Juris Doctor from the University of Miami and years of experience in trademark law, L...
Hey Small Business School! Today on the show I am talking with Dylan Jahraus, a seasoned ecommerce expert with over 10 years of experience and went from corporate e-commerce to making over $1M profit on Etsy, Amazon and Shopify. She and her team now help thousands of Etsy Sellers grow with corporate e-commerce principles through her 1:1 coaching program, the Ultimate Etsy Course. Outside of being an 8 figure CEO she's also a military spouse and a mom of two boys! In our conversation we dive ...
Welcome back to Small Business School! This is my first recording of 2025, and I am so thrilled to kick off the year with the incredible Carly Ottaway founder of Web of Words. Web of Words is an award-winning agency of 9 years obsessed with building brand legacies. Carly is not just a business powerhouse, she’s also a lighthouse of wisdom and inspiration, I am so excited for our conversation on the pressures of social media and business expectations in January, how to show up authentically an...
Welcome back to Small Business School, in today’s guest episode I am joined by Megan Golightly, founder and CEO of Simplified Inc., widely recognized through her popular Instagram handle @gosimplified. Since 2008, Megan has led her team in empowering individuals to declutter, organize, and embrace simplicity. Her work spans organizing projects of all sizes and collaborating with families for remarkable home transformations. With a background in psychology and a passion for neuroscience...
Welcome back to another Accounting Q&A episode of Small Business School, in this episode, we’re diving into the ins and outs of monthly bookkeeping! Whether you’re managing your own finances or considering outsourcing, this episode is packed with tips to help you streamline your bookkeeping process and keep your finances in check. Let’s make sure your financial foundation is rock solid! Topics Covered: Why monthly bookkeeping is non-negotiable. Building good financial decisions st...
In today’s episode I am diving into an Accounting Q&A is for everyone who's puzzled by year-end adjusting entries and why accountants seem so particular about them. I'll break down why these entries matter, how they affect your business numbers, and what you need to know to handle them confidently! Topics Covered: The role of accountants in reviewing year-end entries to ensure accuracy and adherence to accounting standards.Why year-end adjustments aren’t usually made in your bookke...
In this Accounting Q&A episode, we’re diving into a hot topic recently at Thrive Accounting: deciding whether or not to incorporate your business. Incorporating has its perks, but there are also costs and considerations you need to weigh before making the jump. This episode is all about helping you understand when incorporation makes sense, how it affects your finances, and the questions you should be asking your accountant or lawyer. Topics Covered: The upfront and annual fees for incor...
Hey Small Business School! Today, I’m challenging the idea that charging more automatically equals success in business. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for business success, it’s all about creating a purposeful and profitable business model that works for you. Whether you’re a luxury service or an accessible option, there’s a place for your business to thrive! Topics Covered: Why higher prices don’t necessarily mean more success and how businesses like Walmart and Target thrive without ...
In this episode of Small Business School I am excited to dive into a discussion with seasoned real estate broker and entrepreneur Stephanie Soave, founder of Soave Group. Stephanie has a passion for helping others build financial freedom and make life-changing moves. With a background rooted in small businesses and over a decade of experience in real estate, Stephanie has built a reputation for her personalized approach and commitment to empowering families and business owners. Stephanie’s mi...
Have you ever felt completely called out by a podcast episode? That’s exactly where I found myself recently, and it sparked some big reflections on business, distractions, and focus. In this episode, I’m diving into what happens when we spread ourselves too thin and how getting clear on our goals can transform how we allocate our energy and resources. Topics Covered: The cost of distractions. Why spreading your efforts across too many projects slows down growth and makes success more ...
Hey Small Business School! Starting a business while relying on it for income can be incredibly challenging and might even hold you back. In this episode, I dive into the pressure that comes with needing immediate cash flow and why a slower, more intentional start might be the key to long-term success for your small business. Let’s get started! Topics Covered: The “burn it all down” mentality: Why quitting your job cold turkey isn’t always the best choice and how to assess if it’s right for...
In this episode of Small Business I get the chance to chat with Renée Warren, award-winning entrepreneur, angel investor, author, speaker, and founder of We Wild Women, a PR agency revolutionizing how female-led businesses shine in the media spotlight. Renée is not just a leader; she's a visionary, innovating how women can achieve unprecedented visibility and success. As host of the top-rated podcast "Into The Wild," she interviews successful entrepreneurs, sharing actionable authority-buildi...
In this episode, I dive into a mindset shift that I believe can transform your business and lead to a lot of growth. I often hear small business owners calling their businesses their ‘baby’ but we want our business to grow and develop beyond the stage of constant care and supervision. My mom used to always say kids needed two things: roots to grow and develop and wings to blossom and be launched. With a balance of these two things we can find ways to nurture our business’s mission while als...
Welcome back to Small Business School! In this special in person episode, Mallory Rowan and I dive deep into our shared experiences of neurodivergence and autism. Mallory is a multi passionate entrepreneur, season founder and digital creator and coach. Together we discuss how neurodivergence shows up in our everyday lives and how it impacts our businesses. We share the struggles, the funny moments, and the practical strategies that make life as neurodivergent entrepreneurs serve as a s...
Today on Small Business school we're diving deep into one of the most essential skills to develop for any small business owner: marketing. Although often a second thought, understanding the ins and outs of marketing can transform the way your business reaches and resonates with customers. Let's talk about why learning the foundations of marketing is crucial, and how you can get started on the right path! Topics Covered: Why marketing skills are crucial and why it's more than just soci...
In today’s episode of Small Business School, I’m thrilled to chat with Jen Kinal. Jen is the owner of a successful social media agency, helping clients elevate their marketing campaigns and achieve their goals through strategic social media. She is also the founder and creator of The Bold Founders, a thriving community for women in business to connect, learn from inspiring speakers, and support one another in growing and succeeding in their businesses. Jen’s passion for creating memorable eve...
Today I’m recording live with some good friends and inspiring entrepreneurs. This episode features Carly Ottaway, Kim Hiebert, Janette Downie, and a little bit of Laura Sinclair, live from our spa getaway. We are talking about leveling up in our business, finding balance and self care in business, and answering the question together, is business personal? This conversation is so much fun and filled with years of experience and wisdom, you don’t want to miss it! Topics Covered: Reflections f...
In this episode of Small Business School, I’m diving into a powerful conversation inspired by Mel Robbins on the science and art of manifesting. No matter what you believe of the science or energy of manifestation, there’s something in this for you! Let’s talk about breaking through our mental blocks in business and eliminating the stories we tell ourselves about our limitations. Topics Covered: The impact of believing in the possibility of your life and business.Identifying limiting belief...
Today on Small Business School I am talking with Kristy Miller, the founder and CEO of The Scented Market, a Canadian candle and wellness brand known for its eco-friendly, beautifully crafted products. From humble beginnings pouring candles on her kitchen stove, Kristy has grown her business into a multi-location success, even capturing the attention of all six dragons on CBC’s Dragons’ Den. A dedicated entrepreneur and mom of three, Kristy is passionate about inspiring others through her jou...
In today’s episode, we dive deep into a mindset shift that can transform how you approach every aspect of your business. Understanding the motivations of those around you – from team members to customers – could be the secret sauce to achieving your goals and creating win-win situations. Let’s explore how this mindset can be the ultimate game-changer! Topics Covered: Why understanding motivation matters for employees, clients, and even yourself.Using motivation as a tool to build stronger re...
Welcome to Small Business School! In this special episode I am bringing three incredible Canadian female business owners together who are transforming the world of ethical, sustainable, and size-inclusive fashion. We dive deep into their journeys of entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a brand, and how they manage to stay true to their values in a fast-changing industry! Topics Covered: The evolution of each guest's fashion brand and how they balance sustainability with growth.Managi...
Financial planning for your small business should be intentional, strategic, and actionable. In this episode, I share insights from a recent client conversation that will guide your approach to setting 2025 financial goals differently. Let’s move beyond arbitrary numbers and build a plan that sets you up for success! Topics Covered: Why not every financial goal requires a formal strategy session and when to skip the call with your finance expert.The importance of aligning your financial goal...
Welcome back to Small Business School! Today, we’re diving into why understanding financial management matters more for your business than getting caught up in the nitty-gritty of accounting. You know me—I’m all about the numbers, but I want you to know where your skills as a business owner are best spent. Let’s clear up the difference between knowing your numbers and keeping your books to help you focus on what will truly make your business thrive! Topics Covered: The difference between acc...
In this episode of Small Business School, I'm joined by Jonathan Bowers, a seasoned tech entrepreneur with experience building product teams. Jonathan’s agency has helped build amazing products for our clients in education, government, finance, and climate. We discuss the process of building apps and software that truly bring value to businesses. From defining your product's purpose to the importance of iterating, this conversation is packed with insights for those exploring tech solutions! ...
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