Business Partner Partners

You read that right- Chrissy and Ryan have completed their podcast journey (for now) and are here to tell you why and what's next. THANK YOU for being a part of our lives these past 2.5 years and 103 episodes. Please reach out if you wanna chat business or life or tv shows.XOXO,Chrissy & Ryan 

Morgan and Shaun McCallum are two creative artists who came together with a shared vision: to create an art space in Greenville that could truly do it all. That vision became Good Art Co., a beautiful downtown space featuring artist studios, a curated shop, and a welcoming venue for art-centered events of every kind.In this episode, Morgan and Shaun share their journey to building Good Art Co., their creative partnership, and their hopes for the future. It’s a story about collaboration, vision, and creating something meaningful for the community-tune in!Good Art Co. Website

Ben and Nur join Chrissy and Ryan from their new home of Cyprus to discuss their business, Copycat Cafe, a language learning app that helps users learn by copying native speakers rather than memorizing grammar and vocabulary like traditional apps. They share how they went from being friends for 11 years to starting a business together, and what it’s been like building a startup as partners. Since Ben began developing the app before Nur joined, they dive into the challenges and rewards of Nur leaving the corporate world to jump into startup life. This episode is a fun and inspiring listen about people building a business that fits the life they want to live.Copycat Cafe Website

The most popular episode from 2025 is back- a recap of the previous year! Chrissy and Ryan jump on to talk about our year over year growth, the categories that sold the most, what category is creeping towards the winning spot, what email subject lines got clicks, and what we're feeling about the year 2026. And, just like last year, we have too many things uncategorized in Square so we gave our self a to-do from making this episode, as well- whew. Tune in to this milestone episode with us!

Danielle and Erick Arbé are the owners and operators of Arbé Digital—the agency other agencies call when they need support. Their business was born from combining their shared experience in the marketing and advertising industry and realizing, hey, we can do this.Beyond Arbé Digital, they also own Seven Victory Fitness, a gym in downtown Greenville, SC—something they initially fell into but are now thriving in as they continue figuring it out together. This couple doesn’t stop; each life experience pushes them to the next level. Tune in to hear their inspiring story. Arbé Digital WebsiteSeven Victory Website 

In this duet episode Chrissy and Ryan discuss the history of Mountain Goat opening on Christmas Day: the pros, the cons, and the future of opening on (arguably) the biggest holiday of the year. Mountain Goat is a special place for the community and Ryan always wanted it to be open on Christmas for people who didn't have anywhere to go or were ready to see other faces other than family, but they discuss their pivot and the plans for 2025 Christmas. Tune in!

November & December are WILD and Chrissy is here to share how Mountain Goat, a coffee shop, cafè and bar, preps for the busy months. This will be the 8th holiday season Mountain Goat has survived, and Chrissy has learned a lot about how to do it well along the way. She shares tips on when and how to schedule staff, update the sick and emergency policies, events and promotion planning, retail displays, online presence, and moreee! Tune in to chat with your business friend! 

In this episode, Chrissy sits down with her friend and fellow business owner, Suzie Bunn of Statice Event Design- a full service floral and event design company. Chrissy & Suz discuss their recent experiences in their very different industries- coffee shop and floral/event design, and things that are normal that you wouldn’t suspect. Suzie comes at her business with a humility and empathy for her client, and Chrissy discusses the mindset shift she takes when looking at her bank account. Work with Suzie: Statice Event Design

Join Chrissy and Ryan on this check in episode where they discuss, due to recent events and current status, whether or not this business couple would like to franchise Mountain Goat or flame Mountain Goat (aka burn it down). You may be surprised to hear that they're on the same page today, but tune in to hear some insight into what's been going on and the reasons they are both choosing the same F word. 

 Get ready to be pulled into the incredible journey of Curt and Martha Van Inwegen, founders of Life Elements, a nature-based skin and body care company built on clean ingredient and relentless perseverance. What started at a 4th of July picnic with other makers in Southern California sparked a path to entrepreneurship that would change their lives forever. Now, 20 years later, Life Elements continues to thrive and serve a loyal community that swears by their products. In this episode, you'll hear stories of grit, growth, and the power of staying true to your values no matter the odds.Try out some of their products on their website- we highly recommend the healing honey stick!

Ever gotten a piece of criticism that stung? Yep, us too. After seven years in business, Chrissy & Ryan have heard it all—and they’re sharing the deets. From recent feedback to unforgettable zingers, they’re breaking down how to handle criticism without letting it ruin your day, sort what’s helpful from what’s not, and even use it to level up your business. Because let’s be real: if you’re running a business, criticism will happen—so let’s talk about how to handle it like a pro and not get sent into a spiral. 

Honestly, this solo quick episode from Chrissy is embarrassing, but maybe helpful? Tune in to hear about a mistake Chrissy made that was discovered a day before leaving the country for 9 days and how it's a reminder to stay on top of all of the worst things about your job. 

You may think that learning about a medical diagnostic imaging center may not relate at all to your business, but we promise the wisdom and experience in this episode is a must listen for all couples running a business together or if you're simply interested in a fascinating business plan. This remote episode dives into the story behind Imago MRI, a couple-owned diagnostic imaging center that’s redefining healthcare by putting patients first. Craig and Dr. Laurel Lemasters openly share the unique, fun, and sometimes challenging experience of launching a business together after spending much of their marriage in very different careers. We talk about their vision for expansion, the role their children play in the business, and the legacy they hope to leave for future generations. Tune on in!Imago MRI WebsiteImago MRI instagram 

Chrissy and Ryan pop in to recap the summer including an exciting work trip for Chrissy, big work change for Ryan, what's brining us joy about Mountain Goat and what's stressing us out. This ep will make you feel better about everything you're behind on in your business and life. Come be friends with us. 

From 1994 to 2014, The Handlebar was the spot to catch live music in a mid-sized venue in Greenville, SC. Chrissy & Ryan saw plenty of shows there, but only recently discovered it was run by a couple—John Jeter and Kathy Laughlin. After leaving their newspaper jobs in Florida in the early 90's, the pair moved to the Upstate with one bold goal: open a music venue, despite having zero experience in the industry. In this episode, Chrissy & Ryan sit down with John Jeter, the booking mastermind behind The Handlebar, to hear the venue’s origin story, behind-the-scenes tales, and plenty of marriage-and-business wisdom. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone dreaming of starting a business—you’ll laugh along with John’s stories and leave inspired to learn more.  Read more about John's stories of The Handlebar in his book, Rockin' a Hard Place

This episode is unlike anything we’ve done before. Chrissy sits down with health coach and owner of  Berrion Berry to explore how women can optimize their lives—and their businesses—by syncing with their menstrual cycle. It’s a topic that was once considered taboo, but we’re diving into the science behind it to uncover how female entrepreneurs can thrive by working with their bodies, not against them. Plus, we talk about how male partners can better understand and support their female partners’ cycles to improve planning, communication, and overall harmony. This is a fresh, non-traditional way to level up your life and business.Optimize Your Flo @berrionlberry

Welcome back to Counselingish—aka free business couples therapy with Chrissy, Ryan, and their bestie/pastor Lee McDerment. Expect plenty of laughs, a few “uh-oh” moments, and the kind of questions only your best friend would dare to ask. 

Corey and Baylee Simpson went from small-town roots to launching multiple businesses including their newest one: a mobile coffee shop in a vintage camper—now evolving into a soon-to-open brick-and-mortar café, currently mid-renovation, with bold expansion plans ahead. In this episode, we explore how their personal journeys led them to offer only gluten-free products, their strategy behind limited-edition merch drops, and the teamwork that makes it all possible. They’re opening this business with another couple, longtime partners in multiple ventures. Along the way, you’ll hear how both couples have learned to play to each other’s strengths—and why, if pride gets in the way, working with your spouse can be a recipe for disaster.www.crownandbloomcoffee.com

On this interview episode, Ryan puts Chrissy in the hot seat to answer some surprise questions that lead to some deep business insights. We're talking second location, closing down, changing the business model, and more. Tune in to this quick episode to hear more about the ins and outs of this couple running a business together!Subscribe to our newsletter.

In this very unserious episode, Chrissy interviews Ryan and asks all the juicy questions about what it’s really like to run a business as a married couple—including a few gems from Ryan’s days as a child businessman. From honest truths to wild pipe dreams, you’ll get a candid peek behind the curtain—plus Ryan’s hot take on whether every couple should work together. Don’t miss this lighthearted yet insightful look into their business and marriage dynamic.Sign up for our newsletter.

In this solo episode, Chrissy shares 4 practical tips to help you fight less when running a business with your spouse—based on real-life arguments she and Ryan have had while building Mountain Goat together. Learn from their experience, laugh a little, and walk away with tools to protect both your business and your marriage. It’s a quick, easy listen with plenty of honest insight. Got your own tips? Send them our way!Subscribe to our newsletter

Meet Lauren and Brandon Alpert, actors who fell in love and, just three weeks later, embarked on an international theater tour. Their global adventure sparked a passion for craft cocktails, inspiring them to launch Yes Cocktail Co. to bring restaurant-quality mixers to homes across the U.S. From their start at a farmers market to nationwide shipping, their step-by-step journey showcases the grit and perseverance honed by their acting backgrounds. Aspiring entrepreneurs and couples in business will find inspiration and insights in their story. Tune in!Yes Cocktail Co. Sign up for Business Partner Partners Newsletter!

Join Chrissy for a solo episode sharing proven strategies for balancing parenthood and business ownership during the busy summer months. She offers practical, actionable advice and key mindset shifts to ensure you, your family, and your team are set up for success. Tune in to learn how to manage the demands of summer while keeping your business on track.Learn more and subscribe to our newsletter!

In this episode, Chrissy and Ryan sit down for a heartfelt chat with Georgia and Grace, Mountain Goat’s Operations Manager and Assistant Manager. The duo shares memories from their hiring process, insights into the vibrant staff culture that’s kept them both with the company for over 2.5 years, and plenty of behind-the-scenes laughs. Perfect for listeners curious about Mountain Goat’s inner workings or seeking practical tips to create a workplace where staff thrive.Sign up for our newsletter!

In this episode, Chrissy sits down with Faith Hanan—copywriter and SEO strategist—to talk about why ignoring SEO is a mistake you can't afford to make. Faith breaks down the basics of SEO in a way that's simple, practical, and actually fun. You'll walk away with actionable tips to help Google work for you, not against you. If you're a business owner ready to strengthen your online presence and set yourself up for long-term success, this episode is a must-listen.Work with FaithSign up for our newsletter!

Brandon and Emily Wiseman founded Fit Mom Method to support busy moms not just in losing weight, but in transforming their mindset. In this episode, Chrissy and Ryan sit down with the couple to talk about their early relationship (they met at the gym—how fitting!), how they navigate business decisions together, the evolution of their business, and what drives their passion for helping women thrive. Fit Mom Method Fit Mom Instagram: @fitmom.methodSign up for Business Partner Partners Newsletter!

In this episode, Chrissy and Ryan recap the Inaugural Golden Goat Awards—a staff celebration where employees dressed in cocktail attire and received actual GOAT trophies tailored to their unique qualities. While they touch on the logistics of planning the event, the heart of the episode is about sparking ideas to celebrate and appreciate your team, no matter the size. As a small business owner—whether you’re solo or working with your spouse—finding creative ways to show your team they matter is essential. You'll come away inspired with new ideas to make your staff feel truly valued.Newsletter & Subscribe: www.partnerpartners.net

Leaving your business—whether it’s for a day, a week, or a month—can feel overwhelming. How do you step away without everything falling apart? In this episode, Chrissy walks through key questions to ask yourself before heading out of town or taking a much-needed mental health break. Taking time off has huge benefits, but the stress of preparing to leave can sometimes feel heavier than the break itself. Chrissy shares why it’s always worth it—and how stepping away can actually reveal important gaps in your business that are ready to be filled.

In this episode, Chrissy sits down with Caroline Hull, founder of Wild Home Podcasting, to talk all things small business and podcasting. Caroline is a podcast strategist who helps women coaches and consultants grow their businesses through strategic podcasting.She shares her unexpected journey from ballerina to podcasting pro (trust us—you’ll want to hear it), how to define your goals and measure success, and why podcasting can be such a powerful tool for building community. We also dive into the rise of video, the pivots she's made in her business, and how those shifts have shaped her mission to help others grow their audience and impact.Even if you’re not planning to start a podcast, this episode is packed with tangible ideas you can apply to your business today.https://www.wildhomepodcasting.com/

In this episode, Chrissy and Ryan chat with Nicolle and Zack Long of Agency Long — a married duo helping fashion brands and boutiques scale their e-commerce businesses. They share their rom-com-worthy love story, the early days of entrepreneurship, and how they found their niche by blending strategy, intuition, and creativity. Nicolle and Zack have created a beautiful balance between business and life that’s both inspiring and relatable, whether you’re a couple starting a business or an entrepreneur figuring out how to make it all work. Tune in for a fun, insightful conversation with this amazing power couple.www.agencylong.com

In this episode, Chrissy sits down with Leah Lawson, Founder and CEO of The Rock It! Co.—a full-service marketing and events company based in Greenville, SC. This conversation feels like a laid-back brainstorming session with a friend who’s overflowing with business wisdom and happy to share it. No matter where you are in your business journey, you’ll walk away with valuable insights—whether it’s email marketing or finding non social media marketing strategies that actually work! Leah also shares insight into what it’s like to run a business while her partner runs his own. Tune in for a fun, insightful chat packed with real-world advice!Website: The Rock It Co. 

The best low cost marketing resource? Emails. In this episode, Chrissy shares her experience with emails (albeit very imperfect) and breaks down how to figure out your goals for sending emails. From nailing the hook to adding a personal touch, Chrissy covers why pictures matter more than words, how to keep your tone consistent (without getting stale), and why your sign-off matters. Tune in to tune up your email strategy (see what I did there!?). 

Chrissy and Ryan get real about the tough stuff—when business goals don’t pan out and expectations fall flat. They dive into why confidence is key to avoiding the comparison trap, how shifting from the big picture to the small picture can help you reset, and why learning to move on quickly is a game-changer. Plus, they'll discuss how they received a reminder from their children about the best way to have good perspective on their perceived shortcomings. Tune in for practical tips on moving on and moving forward with confidence.

In this episode, Chrissy sits down to recap the top tips, insights, and lessons they've gathered from interviewing entrepreneurial couples over the past year and a half. Whether you're already in business with your partner or considering it, this quick, insightful episode will help you navigate common challenges, avoid pitfalls, and set yourselves up for success—no matter how the business itself turns out.

Join Chrissy for a quick but insightful chat about the big (and little) changes in how they’re managing money at Mountain Goat this year. She shares some eye-opening (and slightly embarrassing) financial habits, details on Mountain Goat’s switch to a new accounting system, and a bold move from a paid service to a free one—stay tuned to see if it’s worth it...If you’ve been thinking about reworking your budget, this episode will get your wheels turning. Tune in now!Links!Profit First Keynote Video (shout out to Kristin @ Southern Crafted Shutters for sharing! ep. 66) Profit First, by Mike Michalowicz

Running a business can be rocky at times, with extreme highs and lows all in a single day, (maybe even within an hour)! In this episode, Chrissy sits down with Kathryn Short, co-owner and co-founder of Reedy River Counseling and a Licensed Professional Counselor, to discuss the mental and physical toll of entrepreneurship.They explore practical strategies for managing stress, the impact of nutrition on focus, mood, and productivity, and how to build a lifestyle that supports long-term well-being. If you need a reminder—and actionable steps—on maintaining your mental health while running a business, this episode is for you. Kathryn has the unique insight of being a counselor and a business owner, so is able to approach this topic from both angles with useful insight- give it a listen!Website: Reedy River Counseling

Join Chrissy for a quick episode on how Mountain Goat keeps content simple and manageable and keeps people coming in the door for more coffee, beer, and waffles! With so much happening behind the scenes, they needed a calendar that made sense without adding extra work. Chrissy shares how dividing social media tasks among the team helps and the best way to keep everyone on the same page. If you want to stay on top of content without overcomplicating it, this episode is for you!

If you think running a shutter business sounds boring, Adam and Kristin are here to prove you so wrong. These two started out building and selling barn doors, but when shutters stole the show, they went all in—and haven’t looked back. In this episode, they share their wisdom on trial and error, team building, and making bold business moves by jumping in quickly and figuring it out later. No matter what kind of business you run, you’ll find golden nuggets of wisdom you can apply right away- both from their mistakes and their wins. Don’t miss this one!website: https://scshutters.com/Insta: @Southerncraftedshutters

AI in Small Business: Hype or Help? Ryan breaks down the basics of artificial intelligence in a quick "AI for Dummies" lesson, making it easy to understand if you haven’t kept up. Then, Chrissy and Ryan dive into how AI is impacting their coffee and waffle business. While robots won’t be making lattes at Mountain Goat anytime soon, they share how they’re using AI now, future possibilities, and practical tips for incorporating AI into your own business. If you’re unsure where to start with the AI world, this episode is for you!

It’s not that serious—but even after 6.5 years of running a business, tough learning moments still happen. In this storytelling episode, Chrissy shares a challenging day at Mountain Goat when she had to face the chaos with her team. As a couple running a coffee and waffle shop, they know every day brings unique lessons and opportunities to grow—both together and independently, and Ryan was actually taking care of their children on this very day! Tune in to laugh at the mess-ups, learn from the mistakes, and feel less alone on the bad days of your business, because they’re bound to come. But hopefully, we’re all getting better by each experience in bouncing back for the next time. 

In this episode, Chrissy chats with Marco Suarez, one of the three owners of Methodical Coffee, Greenville, SC based Roaster and Coffee Shop about what it’s really like to open a second, third and (almost!) 4th brick-and-mortar location. Marco shares how they figured out it was the right time to expand, the financial and market factors that went into the decision, and whether it was all part of a plan or just a great opportunity that came along. They also talk about the vibe of each location, how to keep things consistent when you’re running more than one spot, and what he’s learned through the whole process. If you're running a business with one location and you're considering growing or have already decided you'll never open another (maybe us!), you should listen- I promise you'll walk away with new thoughts!website: www.methodicalcoffee.cominsta: @methodicalcoffee 

Ever wonder what makes a business tick behind the scenes? Join Chrissy and Ryan as they spill the beans on this episode all about 2024—sharing the top-selling items, the email subject line that made customers click, and other insider secrets you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for actionable tips to boost your own business or just curious to peek behind the curtain of ours, this is your chance to lean in, listen, and learn!Website: www.partnerpartners.netInsta: @businesspartnerpartners

Chrissy sits down with Rick Bryson, Creative Director at Cargo, a full-service marketing agency in Greenville, SC, to explore the essentials of branding. This episode pairs perfectly with our discussion on marketing (see Ep. 59 with Jeremy Elrod) since branding and marketing are often confused—but they’re not the same! Rick offers invaluable advice for anyone building a brand, considering a rebrand, or looking to strategically expand an established brand. A must-listen for business owners who care about how their customers perceive them!Rick's Newly Published Book, Movies With Balls

In this solo episode, Chrissy discusses what she loved in 2024 and that made her year better in all the different categories. This is a fun, quick listen to get some suggestions for your personal & business life and to get to know a little bit more about what inspires her! Come be friends with Chrissy! website: www.partnerpartners.net insta: @businesspartnerpartners

Chrissy sits down with Jeremy Elrod, Owner and Business Coach of The Candid Entrepreneur, Owner and Idealist at Ideal Scenario, and co- founder of Common Pops to chat all things marketing. Jeremy's career path has given him a wide and deep marketing education which you'll quickly find by listening to this episode and taking in all of the tangible marketing tips and mindset shifts he has to offer. Chrissy and Jeremy discuss everything from how AI is affecting marketing to how we should really try to focus on who we are as a business before spending any money on marketing. This is a great listen for anyone interested in small business marketing, whether you're a solopreneur or a partner. Websites:Ideal Scenario: https://idealscenario.co/The Candid Entrepreneur: https://thecandidentrepreneur.com/Jeremy Elrod: https://www.jeremyelrod.io/Resources Discussed Link in Bio Newsletter: https://www.milkkarten.net/Extra Value, JT Barnett: https://extra-value.com/Linked In News: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/linkedin-news/Sprout Social: https://www.sproutsocial.comSemrush: https://www.semrush.com

The first episode of this kind: an interview with a couple who each run their own business, but share an office, ideas, and their family! Chrissy and Ryan sit down with Suzie Bunn and Steven Bunn to discuss everything from how to communicate with each other when you're each growing a new business, the ways they help each other out through brainstorming, growing, and holding each other accountable, and their goals and dreams for their businesses. This is a true power couple that has so much wisdom and insight that they share and you'll love them the moment you chat with them (or listen to them!). StaticeWebsite: www.staticeflowers.comInstagram: @staticeeventdesignGreenville Outdoor Living Website website: www.greenvilleoutdoorliving.comInsta: @greenville_outdoorliving

It's easy to think of all the parts of your business that make your life harder, but what if you took the time to think about what your business has brought you that makes you feel thankful? Join Chrissy as she guides you through the three questions that will lead you to feeling more grateful around your business. This episode leads you down a path of adjusting your mindset to see all the good, even in the hard. instagram: @businesspartnerpartnerswebsite: www.partnerpartners.net 

Chrissy confronts Ryan with a surprise conversation about the future of the podcast that he never saw coming. We discuss the ways our podcast has worked well and what we're going to do differently moving forward. Learning to pivot in a business is an important skill to have and we're employing this skill as we move forward with our podcast. To break it down: you'll be hearing more from Chrissy and other experts! Insta: @businesspartnerpartnerswebsite: www.partnerpartners.net

Scott Karr, Mountain Goat's CPA, sits down with Chrissy to offer his time and wisdom with small business accounting. We discuss everything from what expectations you should have of a CPA, how to avoid tax problems, and biggest mistakes small business owners make with their finances. This is a must listen for any small business owner because the practicality is priceless in this one! Give it a listen! Apologies in advance for Ryan being out of town and the audio being questionable on this episode. Work with KTP Advisors: email [email protected]: @businesspartnerpartnerswebsite: www.partnerpartners.net

Sarah and Elijah Kivett own and operate a small organic, no-till farm near Greenville, SC that has grown from 20 to 100 fifty foot beds in a little over a 2 year span where they grow vegetables and flowers that are sold at local farmer's markets and through u-pick opportunities on their farm. We discuss many topics in this episode including selling everything you own to invest in your dream, learning from youtube, volunteering to learn the craft, weather affecting your mood, future plans for the farm, and how Sarah and Elijah balance each other out in every season. Their story is inspiring and fun to hear- give it a listen!website: https://rabbitcrestfarms.com/insta: @rabbitcrestfarmswebsite: www.partnerpartners.cominsta: @businesspartnerpartners