SCORE Houston's Podcast

She started with a piece of paper, a vision, and a rented church kitchen. Today, Britany Vinson runs three restaurant locations, 27 refrigerated vending machines, 33 employees, and a soon-to-be national franchise — all from East Texas.In this episode of Small Business Success Stories presented by SCORE Houston, host Dr. Jeffrey Ricken sits down with Britany Vinson, founder, owner, and head chef of Tome Catering — where TOME stands for The Ordinary Made Extraordinary.Brittany shares her raw, inspiring journey: from cooking at age 4 with her 98-year-old grandmother, to bootstrapping her business while working full-time to pivoting during COVID by turning 20 cars a day into 100+ through a drive-through she almost didn't build.What Brittany Said About the Power of Mentoring with SCORE:"I had a SCORE mentor— he had a restaurant, and he walked me through some things, helped mold me and shape me, gave me ideas through his story and things he'd done to build his business. That was instrumental."Britany credits free mentoring through SCORE and the SBA at Angelina College as a key turning point in building Tome into what it is today — proving that the right guidance at the right time can change everything.In this episode you'll learn:How Britany launched her catering business in 2008 with no outside fundingWhy she kept her day job for 3 years while building Tome from scratchHow a drive-through window she almost didn't install became her lifeline during COVIDThe story behind 27 refrigerated vending machines bringing fresh, home-cooked meals to hospitals, schools, and manufacturers across East TexasHow she earned 3 degrees — including culinary certification — with no days off for 2 yearsThe steps she took to legally franchise Tome for national expansionHer mindset on failure, faith, and feeding communities Connect with SCORE Houston: 📞 713-487-6565 📍 8701 South Gesner, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77074 🕐 Mon–Fri, 10AM–2PM | Walk-ins welcome 🌐 www.score.org/houstonFree mentoring. Real results. SCORE Houston is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

What does it take to build eight companies before the age of 30? In this episode of the SCORE Houston Podcast, host PV Bala sits down with Bahaa Elabbasi, SCORE Houston subject matter expert, who moved to the US from Lebanon at age 10, started washing cars at 13, and never stopped building.Bahaa shares the story behind his automotive empire — from a single tow truck to four car dealerships, mechanic shops, an in-house insurance agency, and a marketing firm — all built on one guiding principle his father taught him early: write your own check.In this conversation, you'll learn:How Bahaa scaled Texas Crown Towing to attract private equity investmentWhy owning every layer of your business (insurance, marketing, repairs) is a game changerHow he manages eight companies without being the bottleneckThe mindset shift from earning a paycheck to building ownershipHis next move: banking, investment, and a master's in financeWhether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an immigrant building your American dream, or a business owner looking to scale — this episode is for you.🔔 Subscribe for more entrepreneur stories from SCORE Houston.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Why do most new businesses fail — and how does a business plan fix that?In this episode of the SCORE Houston Podcast, our mentors walk first-time entrepreneurs through everything they need to know about building a solid business plan — from market research and competitive analysis to pricing, cash flow projections, and financing options.Whether you're just starting to think about launching a business or you're ready to walk into a bank, this episode gives you the practical, no-nonsense foundation you need.What you'll learn:What a business plan actually is (and why it's not just for the bank)How to define your target customer and research your marketHow to analyze your competitionHow to price your product or service to actually make moneyThe truth about working capital and undercapitalizationHow SBA loans, equity, and debt financing workWhat banks really look at: cash flow, repayment, collateral, and creditWhy clean financial records and tax reporting matter from Day 1How SCORE Houston can help you — for free🔗 Get free mentoring from SCORE Houston: https://www.score.org SCORE is a nonprofit resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration offering free, confidential business mentoring.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

From One Room to Rural Business Owner of the Year | Nicole York | Small Business Success Stories. What does it take to turn a personal struggle into a thriving business? Nicole York did exactly that — and her story will inspire you to bet on yourself. In this episode of Small Business Success Stories, hosted by Dr. Jeffrey Ricken — Certified SCORE Mentor and advocate for entrepreneurs across Houston and beyond — we sit down with Nicole York, founder of Desert Rose Beauty & Wellness in Lake Jackson, Texas.Nicole's journey began at age 12, battling cystic acne that no makeup could hide. By 16 she was working as a receptionist at a local salon, learning the industry from the ground up. Years later, she launched her own esthetics studio in a single room in 2019 — with no sign, no ad budget, and no outside funding. Then COVID hit.Rather than giving up, Nicole pivoted — becoming a brows and lashes specialist and building a 2-month waitlist through Instagram, word-of-mouth, and one simple philosophy: make every client feel truly seen. By 2022 she had expanded to a full-service studio with a team of estheticians and was named the Houston District Rural Business Owner of the Year by SBA.In this episode you'll learn: ✅ How to start a business with no outside funding ✅ How to grow organically through social media & word-of-mouth ✅ How to pivot your business during a crisis ✅ Why authenticity is your biggest competitive advantage ✅ How free SCORE mentorship helped shape Nicole's pathLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Samantha Snabes is the co-founder and CEO of re:3D, a bootstrapped Austin and Houston-based company that makes industrial-scale 3D printers — manufactured entirely in America. She's also an Air National Guard officer, a former NASA strategist, and the only woman CEO leading a US-based 3D printing hardware company.In this episode, Samantha shares with PV Bala, SCORE Mentor, how a group of friends turned a side project into a globally recognized manufacturing company — from forming an LLC on New Year's Eve to meet a Startup Chile deadline, to getting funded on Kickstarter in 27 hours, to earning multiple SBIR awards from the National Science Foundation.What you'll learn:How re:3D went from a living room to customers in 55+ countries without taking outside investmentWhy field research in Rwanda and Nicaragua shaped a product built for real-world impact, not hypeHow to navigate the SBIR grant process as a first-time applicant, including what to do when you miss the deadlineThe real trade-offs of bootstrapping a hardware company in America — from reinvesting every dollar of profit to maintaining a vertically integrated supply chainHow military service provides unexpected advantages in entrepreneurship, compliance, and leadership.Why printing from recycled plastic waste became both a social mission and a competitive differentiatorSamantha's advice for retired engineers and late-career entrepreneurs entering 3D printing and deep tech. Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

What if you could skip the costliest mistakes in business — before you ever sign a lease or drain your savings? In this special compilation episode, we break down the best insights from 20 SCORE Houston mentorship sessions into one high-impact guide. You'll learn the "Five Numbers Test" for validating any business idea, why most businesses die from working capital — not bad products, when to form an LLC (and why doing it too early wastes your money), how to build a bulletproof business plan — even if you're self-funded, creative funding strategies including SBA loans and retirement fund rollovers, low-risk sales tactics like the consignment hack and niche marketing, the surprising math behind buying an existing business versus starting from scratch, and the leadership shift every founder must make to scale beyond themselves. Featuring wisdom from over 135 volunteer business mentors — retired executives, successful entrepreneurs, and industry veterans — this episode is your free masterclass in building, buying, and leading a business that lasts Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Should you start a business from scratch, buy an existing one, or invest in a franchise? In this episode of the Score Houston Podcast, host and SCORE mentor PV Bala talks to Jeffrey Jones — President of Advanced Business Brokers, certified business appraiser, and a SCORE mentor with over 35 years of experience helping entrepreneurs buy and sell businesses in the Houston metro area.Jeff shares insider knowledge on:·       Why buying a business is statistically safer than starting one (90% of startups fail vs. 70% success rate for acquisitions)·       How business valuation works — from tangible assets to discretionary earnings and EBITDA multiples ·       SBA loan requirements, seller financing structures, and how deals actually get funded·       The role of confidentiality in business transactions and why brokers are essential ·       What corporate professionals transitioning to entrepreneurship should consider ·       The Houston business landscape — from restaurants to B2B service companies ·       Red flags to watch for in financial statements during due diligence Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a corporate executive exploring business ownership, or a SCORE client looking for guidance on your next move, this conversation delivers decades of real-world brokerage experience in one episode.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join SCORE Houston host and mentor PV Bala in an inspiring conversation with Marcia Faschingbauer, CEO of Excargo Services, as she shares her remarkable 45-year journey building a logistics powerhouse in Houston's male-dominated trucking industry.From starting as a transportation manager in her family's food business to becoming a trailblazer at the Port of Houston, Marcia reveals the strategic decisions, leadership principles, and innovative technology adoption that transformed a struggling startup into one of Houston's premier container carriers.In this episode, discover:✓ How to transition from a small family business to a 100-employee logistics company ✓ The secret to achieving exceptional driver retention in a high-turnover industry ✓ Why early technology adoption became Marcia's competitive advantage ✓ Essential funding strategies for small business owners—from navigating multiple banks to building creditworthiness ✓ Leadership lessons learned from 45 years in supply chain management ✓ How to survive freight recessions and industry disruption ✓ The importance of focusing on information and people over equipment ✓ Practical advice for entrepreneurs considering the logistics industryKey Highlights:Winner of SBA District Small Business of the Year Award (2025)Texas Trucking Association Leadership Award recipient (2024)Building an inclusive workplace culture in a traditionally male industryNavigating the complexities of Port of Houston operationsWhether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, small business owner, or logistics professional, Marcia's story offers invaluable insights on perseverance, strategic growth, and building a legacy business in Houston's dynamic industrial landscape.About SCORE Houston: SCORE is America's largest network of volunteer business mentors, supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration. We provide free, confidential mentoring and education to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and succeed.📍 Visit us: 8701 South Gessner, Suite 1200, Houston, TX 77074 📞 Call: 713-487-6565 🌐 Learn more: www.score.org/houstonLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

What does it take to walk away from a stable career, open a one-room office with borrowed rent money, and build a thriving multi-location business? Dr. Dedra Frazier did exactly that — and the results speak for themselves.In this episode of Small Business Success Stories at SCORE Houston, host and SCORE Mentor Dr. Jeffrey Ricken sits down with Dr. Dedra Frazier, licensed psychologist and founder of Psychology Works, a multi-location mental health practice serving the Pearland and Lake Jackson communities with over 15 providers.Dr. Frazier shares her journey from small-town Sweeney, Texas, to earning her PhD at Texas A&M, working in public school systems, and launching Psychology Works in 2012 during maternity leave. She opens up about the hard lessons of hiring with her heart instead of her bottom line, how free mentoring from SCORE and the Small Business Development Center accelerated her growth, and how faith carried her through fear at every stage.Entrepreneurs and small business owners will gain practical insights on scaling a service business, building a specialized team, and navigating the emotional weight of leadership.SCORE provides free, confidential mentoring to entrepreneurs across the U.S. Visit score.org/houston to connect with a mentor today.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join SCORE mentor Dr. Jeffrey Ricken in an inspiring conversation with Sue McCarron, successful owner of McCarron Home Care and Executive Director of Global Pathways Institute for Caregivers, and her SCORE mentor Richard Stanley, a 19-year veteran volunteer advisor.Discover how Sue transformed from a failed first business attempt in 2013 to building a thriving home healthcare company that broke even in its first year—all with the guidance of SCORE's free mentorship services. Sue shares her journey from having no experience in the home care industry to managing 15 professional caregivers and approaching seven-figure revenues.Richard Stanley, who has mentored entrepreneurs for nearly two decades, reveals the secrets behind successful business startups, including the importance of business planning, building credit, and leveraging SCORE's extensive network of experts in legal, marketing, SEO, and nonprofit management.Key Topics Discussed:Overcoming the challenges of starting a business in an unfamiliar industryThe critical role of mentorship in business successHow to start a business with limited funds and poor creditCreating effective business plans and financial projectionsThe power of SCORE's free resources, webinars, and expert guidanceWhy 70% of businesses fail in the first two years—and how to avoid becoming a statisticWhether you're dreaming of starting your own business or looking to grow an existing one, this episode demonstrates how SCORE's free mentorship can help in entrepreneurial success. Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join Dr. Jeffrey Ricken in conversation with Art Klebba, a seasoned SCORE mentor with 40+ years of business experience. Art shares invaluable insights on starting and growing successful businesses, including funding strategies, partnership best practices, and exit planning.Key Topics: ✓ Why you don't need a college degree to start a business ✓ The power of sweat equity and long-term thinking ✓ How to avoid under-capitalization (the #1 cause of business failure) ✓ Partnership agreements: why 50/50 splits don't work ✓ Building lasting customer relationships that span decades ✓ Market research essentials before launching ✓ Exit strategies and business valuation ✓ Free SCORE resources for aspiring entrepreneursArt successfully built and sold multiple healthcare companies and now dedicates his retirement to mentoring the next generation of business owners through SCORE—a nonprofit partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration.Here are three excellent quotes from Art Klebba:1. On Partnership Structure: > "Probably the most important thing in any partnership is having a written document that really outlines the partnership. A 50-50 partnership is really not always the best way because if there's a final decision that needs to be made, someone has to make that. There has to be a final decision maker."2. On The Power of Listening: > "One of the most important skills in any business is a listening skill. You have to not be talking. You have to hear what the customer's saying. Listen, listen, listen."3. On Understanding Your Market: > "Know your market. Know your customer. Who is your customer? And specifically, what value will you bring to that customer with your product or service? You have to give solid reasons, not just because you're a nice person, but because that doesn't sell anything. You have to have value of the product or service that you're offering." Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Discover actionable strategies from Robert Brown, former global executive and SCORE Houston mentor, as he shares with Dr Jeffrey Ricken how to build customer intimacy, generate aftermarket revenue, and create trust that drives business growth. In this episode, you’ll learn how small businesses can boost customer retention, manage cash flow, and set clear goals for sustainable success. Robert explains why hiring for attitude and cultural fit is essential, and how transparent communication and mentorship can help you lead your team through change. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or aspiring leader, you’ll gain practical tips on service excellence, customer loyalty, and the fundamentals of P&L management. Don’t miss Robert’s expert advice on transforming one-time buyers into loyal advocates and building a business that thrives.Robert's Core Philosophy:"Large corporations have a cushion for bad decisions. Small businesses don't. You can't run negative cash flow for months—it will cripple or kill your business.""Customer intimacy isn't just for big companies. Whether you're multinational or a solo plumber, it's what drives referrals and repeat business." Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Corine Short is the founder and CEO of That Stuff Nutrition and the 2025 Houston District Veteran Business Owner of the Year. A former US Air Force Captain and fitness nutrition officer, Corine has built a thriving health and wellness brand in Houston with 2 locations, a food truck, a TSU campus partnership, and 13 employees. Her journey? Corporate layoff in 2018 → Used severance to start business → Built award-winning nutrition empire with SCORE Houston mentorship.Corine shares how she transformed setbacks into opportunities and built a purpose-driven brand with strong community impact:→ Military discipline in business - How Air Force training shaped her systems-driven approach → Turning layoff into opportunity - The courage to invest severance in herself instead of waiting → "You can't out-train a bad diet" - Why she pivoted from fitness to functional nutrition → Working with SCORE mentor Bill Horwitz - How mentorship helped her focus and accelerate growth → PhD-driven innovation - Using health science research to design functional products → Purpose-driven leadership - Creating positive community impact through nutritionCorine's Success Formula: "Systems matter more than motivation. Cash flow is the oxygen of business. And find a community and mentorship to accelerate your growth and keep you grounded."Corine credits SCORE Houston for helping her "slow down to speed up." Bill helped her separate activities from meaningful progress, refine her systems, pricing, and growth decisions. This is a beautiful example of SCORE mentorship in action!Key Quote About SCORE: "I truly believe in mentorship. I don't think anyone builds anything meaningful alone. SCORE offered access to experience without ego or ulterior motives."Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join us for an insightful conversation with Kevin Rosenberg, a seasoned CPA and SCORE Houston mentor, as he shares his expertise on the critical role of financial literacy and exceptional service in driving small business success. In this episode, Kevin draws from over 40 years of experience in accounting and finance, offering practical advice for entrepreneurs, startups, and small business owners.Discover why understanding the "why" behind business decisions is just as important as knowing the "what," and learn how focusing on value and quality—rather than competing on price—can set your business apart. Kevin discusses common pitfalls faced by new business owners, the importance of knowing your cost structure, and how to develop a clear vision for long-term growth.Whether you're launching a startup, growing your business, or seeking mentorship, this episode is packed with actionable tips on financial management, business planning, and customer service excellence. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Kevin Rosenberg and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Jerry Hoffman is one of our most experienced mentors at SCORE Houston with a distinguished career in sales, marketing, and the fashion industry—designing and manufacturing clothing from women's leather jackets to men's sweaters, managing nationwide sales teams, and developing marketing campaigns. But here's what makes Jerry exceptional: he and Raj Mashruwala have mentored over 65 entrepreneurs into successful businesses across diverse industries, restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries, skincare, med spas, and wellness businesses. In conversation with PV Bala, Jerry reveals the practical, street-smart strategies that have helped dozens of Houston entrepreneurs succeed:→ The 20-call rule - Why calling 20 businesses outside Houston transforms startup success → Inventory management - The #1 mistake that kills new product businesses → Value propositions - How to convince customers to choose YOU over competitors → Consignment strategy - Testing products without risk (brilliant for new brands) → Listening to customers - Real stories of pivots that turned failures into million-dollar businesses → Digital vs traditional marketing - What still matters in the age of AILet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join Jeff Ricken and Richard Webb for an insightful conversation about SCORE Houston, America's largest network of volunteer business mentors. Richard, a former Ernst & Young HR executive with over 20 years of experience, shares his journey from corporate leadership to mentoring small businesses. Learn about SCORE's free mentoring services, success stories from Houston entrepreneurs, and valuable insights on what it takes to build a successful business. Whether you're considering starting a business or looking to give back through mentoring, this episode offers practical wisdom and resources to help you succeed.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join us for an inspiring episode of Mentor Conversations at Score Houston as we sit down with Ken Roseboom, owner of Thinking Partners and an executive leadership coach with decades of experience. Ken shares his journey from a 37-year career at Chevron to coaching business owners and leaders, offering practical wisdom on the emotional side of leadership. In this episode, Ken shares practical wisdom on leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building high-performing teams. Learn how to lead with presence, foster accountability, and create a culture where people feel valued and engaged. Perfect for business owners and leaders looking for actionable strategies to grow and thrive.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

In this episode of Mentor Conversations at SCORE Houston, host Doug Sewell sits down with Jim Nordhaus, a seasoned entrepreneur and mentor with decades of experience in the food industry. Jim shares his journey from running a family frozen food business to holding executive roles at major companies like Cisco and PFG. He discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of understanding business fundamentals, and the value of giving back through mentorship. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Jim's insights on leadership, risk management, and building a successful business are invaluable.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Join us for Mentor Conversations from SCORE Houston as we talk with Bill Horwitz, a mentor with over 40 years of experience. Bill shares his journey from family business to mentoring entrepreneurs, offering practical advice and insights for small business owners. Discover how SCORE Houston supports local entrepreneurs and why mentorship is key to business success. Tune in for real-world wisdom and encouragement to help you thrive!Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Discover the inspiring journey of Dr. Tarina Desai, a board-certified physician who traded her hospital scrubs for the entrepreneurial world to build a thriving med spa from the ground up. In this episode, Dr. Desai shares how the power of mentorship, determination, and community support transformed her vision into a million-dollar business (Artavi Med Spa) while balancing motherhood, overcoming setbacks, and navigating the unknowns of small business ownership. Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

In this episode of Mentor Conversations at Score Houston, Mentor host PV Bala interviews Dr. Jeffrey Ricken—a distinguished mentor, retired physician, educator, and business leader. Dr. Ricken shares insights from his diverse career, discusses the importance of mentorship, and offers practical advice for entrepreneurs, especially in healthcare. The conversation covers business strategy, success stories, and the value of SCORE’s free mentoring services for small businesses. Write your comments here: https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.comLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

In this episode, Dr. Lalitha Raman shares her journey from science to business mentorship and offers essential advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Learn her tips on starting and sustaining a business, the importance of financial planning, and why mentorship matters. If you’re looking for real-world guidance and inspiration to launch or grow your business, don’t miss Dr. Raman’s insights and encouragement. Leave your comments here: https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.comLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Host Murali Balasubramanian interviews Matt Heath, a veteran executive and SCORE mentor, about his journey from corporate America to mentoring Houston’s entrepreneurs. Matt shares practical advice on building a broad skill set, finding your business niche, and the importance of sales and mentorship. Discover how to build your skills, find your niche, and succeed with support from SCORE Houston. Hear real stories of client success and learn how SCORE Houston can help you grow your business.  Leave your comments here: https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.comLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

In this episode of Mentor Conversations at SCORE Houston, host PV Bala talks to senior mentor and retired attorney, Rita Leader. With over 40 years of experience in corporate law, Rita shares her journey, challenges faced as a female law graduate, and transition to mentoring at SCORE. She offers detailed guidance on setting up LLCs, corporate taxation, risk analysis, and maintaining work-life balance. Rita emphasizes the importance of thorough business planning and shares memorable client success stories. Listeners are encouraged to seek SCORE's free mentoring and educational services to help their small businesses thrive.Leave your comments here: https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.comLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

In this episode of Mentor Conversations at Score Houston, host PV Bala interviews seasoned mentor Raj Mashruwala. Raj shares his extensive experience in strategic planning, marketing, and financial management, built over three decades in the chemical and refining industries. He discusses his journey into mentoring since joining SCORE in 2003 and highlights his unique approach to helping entrepreneurs from various sectors, including coffee shops, bakeries, and medical startups. Key takeaways from the conversation include Raj's strategies for nurturing mentoring skills, the importance of execution in a business plan, and the value of building strong relationships in business. This episode also covers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on testing business ideas, seeking mentorship, and navigating the complexities of starting and scaling a business.Leave your comments here: https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.comLet us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Welcome to our introductory episode on SCORE Houston—the nation’s largest network of volunteer business mentors, backed by the US Small Business Administration. Whether you’re launching a startup, growing your business, or seeking expert guidance, this episode unpacks how SCORE Houston’s seasoned mentors—former CEOs, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs—offer free, confidential support to help you succeed. Hear real stories, actionable advice, and insights on topics like resilience, adaptability, AI, and Houston’s evolving business landscape. Discover how tapping into SCORE’s collective wisdom can transform your entrepreneurial journey Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more. 

Welcome to our introductory episode on SCORE Houston—the nation’s largest network of volunteer business mentors, backed by the US Small Business Administration. Whether you’re launching a startup, growing your business, or seeking expert guidance, this episode unpacks how SCORE Houston’s seasoned mentors—former CEOs, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs—offer free, confidential support to help you succeed. Hear real stories, actionable advice, and insights on topics like resilience, adaptability, AI, and Houston’s evolving business landscape. Discover how tapping into SCORE’s collective wisdom can transform your entrepreneurial journey.Let us know what you think of this episode. What subjects you would like us to cover in next episodes. Give your comments at https://scorehoustonpodcast.blogspot.com or write to [email protected]. Let us know what you like of this episode and suggest subjects on which you wish to know more.