Small Business, Big Engine

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Grant sits down with Flora Voelcker, founder of Voelcker Design, a creative studio helping entrepreneurs and small businesses build premium, trust-driven brands that command higher prices.Flora’s philosophy is simple but powerful: people buy from brands they trust, and trust starts with how you present yourself online. Yet too many small businesses underestimate their first impression. They might have great products or services, but a generic website or dated visuals can instantly lower perceived value. Flora believes that strong design isn’t about being flashy or trendy — it’s about communicating credibility, emotion, and confidence from the first glance.Flora shares her journey from Berlin to Cape Town, how freedom and creativity motivated her to start a business, and what she learned building an international client base across Germany, Switzerland, the UK, and the U.S. She opens up about discovering the gap between design and marketing, and how combining both disciplines became her studio’s unique advantage.Inside the conversation, Flora and Grant discuss:The connection between design, trust, and pricing powerWhy most small businesses still treat design as an afterthoughtHow to tell when your brand visuals are holding you backThe right time for a rebrand versus incremental updatesHow to navigate client conversations when you need to challenge their visualsThe importance of repelling the wrong clients to attract the right onesThe rise of AI in design and why human creativity still mattersFlora also talks about premium positioning — how raising prices actually attracts more serious clients, not fewer — and why brands that look and feel trustworthy can sell with less friction.Whether you’re a designer, freelancer, or business owner trying to elevate your brand image, this episode will challenge how you think about the role of design in business growth. It’s a reminder that design is not decoration — it’s strategy in visual form.Connect with Flora:Website: voelckerdesign.comLinkedIn: Flora VoelckerFollow Small Business, Big Engine:Website: singlestack.io/podcastInstagram: @grantmfisherLinkedIn: Grant Fisher

B2B buyers live on LinkedIn. SteadyRev founder Austin Futers shows how to capture a true founder voice, choose the right post mix, repair low reach, and connect comments to real sales outcomes. We cover network hygiene, when to use video vs text, authentic relationship building, and whether Sales Navigator is worth it.What we talked about:How to build a founder-led LinkedIn content system from one monthly interviewThe current post mix that works: 1–2 videos weekly, strong text posts, smart carouselsFixing low reach by cleaning irrelevant connections and tightening ICPCommenting and DMs that open deals without spamWhen Premium or Sales Navigator pays off, and when to skip itSimple RevOps habits that convert LinkedIn attention into pipelineConnect with Austin:Austin Futers on LinkedInSteadyRev

If your direct-to-consumer (DTC) playbook is starting to stall, this episode is your wake-up call. Chuck Heckman, co-founder of OneBillion Agency, joins Grant Fisher to unpack what it really takes for DTC brands to scale into retail, and how to win once you get there.With decades of experience leading global campaigns for brands like Verizon, P&G, Heineken, and Clorox, Chuck brings a deep understanding of both digital and in-store growth. He explains why customer acquisition costs (CAC) are climbing, why “CAC inflation” is killing profitability, and why omni-channel brands consistently enjoy higher lifetime value (LTV) than pure DTC models.From shopper marketing and retail media to distinctive brand assets and buyer psychology, Chuck lays out the Billion Dollar Brand Playbook: a proven roadmap that helps emerging brands go from one or two retail partners to category dominance.The DTC Ceiling: Why the tactics that built your online success will not work at the shelf.CAC Inflation Explained: The real reasons digital acquisition costs are climbing across every platform.The Retail Mindset Shift: How to go from hyper-targeted digital ads to mass reach and frequency.Distinctive Assets and Category Positioning: Why blending in kills recall—and how to stand out without confusing customers.When to Rebrand vs. When to Refine: How to know when small tweaks aren’t enough.Revenue and Margin Reality: What founders overlook when they first enter retail.Small Brand Advantage: The creative agility and consistency lessons smaller teams can borrow from Fortune 100 players.The Future of Retail: What’s replacing the social-media gold rush and how in-store experiences are making a comeback.Chuck Heckman is the Co-Founder of OneBillion Agency, an omni-channel brand and media strategy firm helping DTC brands transition and scale into CPG retail. He has led strategy for world-class brands including adidas, Heineken, Hilton, P&G, and Verizon, and brings a rare mix of agency expertise and C-suite leadership experience.Connect with Chuck on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/heckchuckmanExplore OneBillion Agency: onebillion.agencyCheck out Posted.Careers, his startup connecting marketing, HR, and creative professionals: posted.careers

Running ads feels risky for many small businesses—but it doesn’t have to. In today’s episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I sit down with Paul Parnell, founder of Level Up Roofer Marketing (and Heat Vision Media). Paul helps roofing and home service businesses move beyond wasted ad spend by focusing on smart funnels, real lead qualification, and operational scaling. He also talks about how he blends his film and media background into marketing, and how he builds businesses around his family mission.What We CoverWhy Paul chose roofing as a niche, and how he expanded into related home servicesHow his ad strategy includes weekly optimizations, negative keyword pruning, lead qualification, and appointment bookingHis proprietary tool Job Rescue AI that captures website visitors who don’t fill out formsThe metric “Profit Per Sales Hour” and how he uses it to compare lead sourcesWhen ads don’t work — issues like low average order value or insufficient ad budgetHow he builds his team using contractors and partnersHow he markets his own business (cold email, LinkedIn content, outreach)How his companies—Level Up and Heat Vision—complement each otherPaul’s growth goals, and how he centers family and mission in his workConnect With Paul Parnell & His BrandsLinkedIn (Paul Parnell): https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulparnell LinkedInLevel Up Roofer Marketing (LinkedIn Page): https://www.linkedin.com/company/level-up-roofer-marketing LinkedInHeat Vision Media (Website): https://www.heatvisionmedia.com/ Heat Vision Media

Why do so many small business owners drown in documents, spreadsheets, and endless emails? According to Therman Trotman, also known as Mr. SharePoint, it is not a technology problem. It is a leadership problem.In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Therman, founder of SharePoint Help Desk, to unpack how small businesses can stop running on chaos and start creating real systems of productivity using the tools they already own.Therman did not plan to build a business around SharePoint. In fact, he stumbled into it by accident. What began as a simple automation for scheduling meetings turned into a career helping organizations unlock the hidden potential of Microsoft 365. Today, he is passionate about showing leaders how to create one-stop workspaces, simplify their operations, and get their teams actually excited about using SharePoint.This conversation dives deep into:Why “too many documents” signals a leadership problem, not just a tech problemThe surprising power of SharePoint lists, sites, and libraries (and why they beat Word and Excel for business processes)How small business leaders can stop thinking “email first” and start thinking “hub first”The common mistakes organizations make with Microsoft 365 and how to fix themWhy adoption is not about technology at all but about people and relationshipsHow branding your internal tools (instead of calling them “SharePoint”) can drive adoptionSimple mindset shifts that help teams embrace new systems instead of resisting themTherman brings energy, real-world examples, and his signature analogies (like why using a spreadsheet instead of SharePoint is like eating cereal with a fork) to make system design simple and accessible for any business owner.If you have ever been frustrated by SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, or the chaos of endless files, this episode will change the way you think about productivity.Connect with Therman Trotman on LinkedIn: Therman’s LinkedInLearn more about SharePoint Help Desk: TalkSharePoint.comFollow Grant Fisher on LinkedIn: Grant’s LinkedInExplore more episodes of Small Business, Big Engine: Podcast HomepageResources and Links

Welcome back to Small Business, Big Engine. In this episode, I’m joined by Randy Lyman — a physicist, exited founder, and the author of The Third Element. Randy has built multiple eight figure businesses in highly technical fields, but what he discovered along the way is surprising. The real driver behind his success was not just strategy, systems, or hard work. It was emotional intelligence.Randy’s story takes us from his early days running a business out of his garage in the 1980s, through rapid financial growth, to a turning point where he realized something was missing. Despite the money and success, he wasn’t fulfilled. It was only when he began to explore his own emotional and spiritual growth that his businesses started multiplying. By integrating emotional intelligence into his leadership, Randy saw his companies grow to 30 times their size. More importantly, he found deeper connection with his teams and a stronger sense of purpose.In this conversation, we unpack what emotional intelligence really means for small business leaders, why it is the missing skill for so many entrepreneurs, and how you can apply it directly to your own business. Randy shares personal stories, practical tools, and powerful frameworks that will help you become a more effective leader while also building teams that thrive.What We Cover in This EpisodeThe story of how Randy grew multiple eight figure businesses, then realized he needed more than strategy and systems to keep going.The moment in 1989 when he began doing inner work and how that completely changed his leadership.Why so many entrepreneurs and leaders overlook emotional intelligence and the cultural conditioning that holds them back.How to recognize early warning signs that a lack of emotional intelligence is hurting your team.What it looks like to create a culture of belonging where people feel seen, valued, and motivated.Randy’s concept of The Third Element and why emotions are the missing piece in most leadership frameworks.Practical tools like journaling, breathing, and collaborative decision making that any leader can implement this week.The role of vulnerability in leadership and why showing up authentically earns you more respect, not less.Success stories of how integrating emotional intelligence improved collaboration, reduced mistakes, and helped companies launch new products faster.Randy’s advice for business owners who are in survival mode and feel like they don’t have time for emotional intelligence.About Randy’s BookRandy’s new book, The Third Element: The Missing Key to Activating the Law of Attraction, explores the vital role emotions play in our personal and professional success. He combines his background as a physicist and engineer with decades of business leadership and personal growth to show how balancing thoughts, actions, and emotions creates powerful results.The book is filled with personal stories, clear explanations, and practical exercises. If you want to understand how to integrate emotional intelligence into your life and leadership, this is a great place to start.👉 Get your copy of The Third Element on Amazon here: Buy on AmazonWho This Episode Is ForSmall business owners who want to lead better, build stronger teams, and get better results.Entrepreneurs who feel stuck, burned out, or disconnected despite outward success.Leaders who are curious about emotional intelligence but are unsure how to apply it practically.Anyone who wants to build a business culture where people feel like they belong and want to contribute.Resources and LinksRandy Lyman’s Website: randylyman.comRandy on LinkedIn: LinkedIn ProfileThe Third Element on Amazon: Buy Here

One of the hardest lessons for small business owners to learn is that not every client is the right client. Saying yes to the wrong people can drain your time, hurt your team, and even push away the people you most want to serve. In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Grant Fisher sits down with RJon Robins, Co-Founder and President of How to Manage a Small Law Firm, to talk about what it really takes to grow a business you love, one that brings in the right customers, produces real profit, and doesn’t demand every ounce of your energy.RJon has spent more than two decades helping entrepreneurs build businesses that actually work. While his company specializes in law firms, his insights apply across every industry. As he says in this interview, “98.75% of every business is the same.” Whether you own a restaurant, run a creative studio, or manage a professional services firm, the same seven parts determine your success: marketing, sales, production, people, physical plant, financial controls, and the owner’s mindset.In this conversation, you’ll hear RJon explain:Why the biggest mistake owners make is believing their business is “different”The seven parts of every successful business, and why ignoring just one creates problemsHow to shift from working in the business to working on itThe difference between the Doctrine of Sacrifice and the Doctrine of ProfitWhy half the job of marketing is to repel the wrong prospectsHow to analyze your best clients to find more people like themThe overlooked role of price elasticity in profitabilityWhy raising your prices should always come with raising valueThe psychology of pricing, and why you show up better when clients pay moreKey Takeaways from This EpisodeYour business isn’t unique. The same seven parts apply to everyone.Owners work on the business, not in it. Be clear about what hat you’re wearing.Profit comes from exchange. Stop glorifying sacrifice.Marketing should repel as much as it attracts. Protect your time and theirs.Study your best clients. Their answers will design your marketing strategy.Raise prices the right way. Always add value and test elasticity.Higher prices elevate performance. You show up stronger when you charge more.About RJon RobinsRJon Robins is the Co-Founder and President of How to Manage a Small Law Firm, one of the fastest-growing companies in the legal services industry. Since 1999, he has helped thousands of entrepreneurs transform their law firms into profitable businesses. His frameworks apply far beyond the legal field, offering insights for any owner who wants to build a business that works without consuming their life.RJon’s upcoming book, Truth Teller, will be released by Morgan James Publishing. You can learn more and pre-order at truthteller.com.Find more at:HowToManage.comRJonRobins.comAbout Small Business, Big EngineSmall Business, Big Engine is hosted by Grant Fisher, a senior product designer and founder of SingleStack. Each week Grant talks with entrepreneurs, owners, and operators across industries to uncover the systems, mindsets, and marketing strategies that fuel growth. From visibility engines to profitability levers, the show brings you candid conversations and practical takeaways to help you strengthen your business engine.

If you run a creative studio and feel like you're doing everything right, making great work, keeping clients happy, grinding every day, but growth still feels out of reach… You're not alone.In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I sit down with Joel Pilger, a creative entrepreneur and advisor who’s helped hundreds of studios around the world reposition and grow. Joel spent 20 years scaling his own shop, Impossible Pictures, before turning his focus to helping other creative founders figure out what’s keeping them stuck and how to move forward with clarity.We dig deep into the real reasons creative studios stall out... and spoiler alert, it’s almost never about the quality of the work. Instead, Joel breaks down what he’s seen again and again: when studios stop growing, it usually comes down to poor positioning, unclear vision, burnout, or a sales pipeline that lives and dies by word of mouth.Whether you’re a freelancer trying to level up or a studio owner with a team and overhead, this conversation will shift how you think about your business. Joel brings hard-earned wisdom and practical advice that creative founders can actually use to get out of survival mode and build something sustainable.What we cover in this episode:Why doing great work isn’t enough anymoreThe most common mindset mistakes studio owners makeThe difference between creative entrepreneurs and traditional entrepreneursWhy positioning matters more than ever in today’s saturated marketHow to future-proof your creative studio in a fast-changing industryWhat Joel calls “the three seasons” of a creative businessHow to escape the feast-or-famine sales cycleWhy most founders wait too long to delegate sales and productionJoel’s “saleskeeping” habits that lead to consistent leads and dealsHow to move from services to outcomes, and why that changes everythingYou’re not in the services business, you’re in the outcomes business. If you’re still positioning your studio as an “animation shop” or “design studio,” you’re probably blending in with everyone else. Joel explains how to reposition around the result you create, not the tools you use.Reinvention isn’t optional... it’s the business model. The industry moves fast. What was cutting-edge five years ago is now a commodity. Joel shares why the best studios are always evolving and how to know when it’s time to pivot.If you want to scale, you have to stop doing everything. Joel talks about the “three-legged stool” of a creative business: creative, production, and sales; and why no one person can carry all three for long.Sales is not a one-person job. Most studio owners think sales means cold-calling or being pushy. Joel reframes it as a relationship-driven process built on consistency, trust, and focus, and he shares how to start building a system even if you’re a team of one.About Joel Pilger:Joel is the founder of Impossible Pictures and a trusted advisor to creative studios worldwide. Through his private community Forum and podcast The Fabulist, Joel helps studio owners rethink how they position themselves, build stronger businesses, and grow without losing their creative spark. He’s worked with top studios like Laundry, Sarofsky, and Ordinary Folk, as well as plenty of up-and-coming teams still finding their footing.Learn more about Joel: https://joelpilger.comListen to The Fabulist: [Available wherever you get your podcasts]Connect with Joel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelpilgerIf you've read this far, do me a favor and leave a 5 star review to help us grow the show. Thanks!

Is it possible to build a thriving video production company without owning a single piece of equipment? Jerry Koedding says yes, and he's been doing it for over a decade.In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I sit down with Jerry Koedding, founder and Head of Production at Wave Films, a lean, Singapore-based production company that has built an entire business around talent, relationships, and strategic partnerships—instead of gear, studio space, or traditional overhead.Jerry shares how he fell into filmmaking without any formal training, why he left a corporate job to pursue the unknown, and how he's built a profitable and scalable production company in one of the most expensive cities in the world, all without owning cameras, editing suites, or even an office.If you're a creative entrepreneur, service-based business owner, or production team looking to scale smarter, this conversation is packed with insights.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to run a capital-efficient production company by focusing on producing, not gearWhy Wave Films operates with just four core team members and how that creates flexibilityThe secret to managing large freelance creative networks across Asia and beyondHow Jerry handles project-based talent selection, avoiding one-size-fits-all in creative hiringWhy Wave Films partners with other production companies instead of competing with themThe advantage of being a “general contractor” for film and media projectsHow hospitality and client experience play a larger role than people realize in productionWhat it takes to build trust and reputation when your business depends entirely on word of mouthWhy Singapore is a global opportunity hub for international video productionLessons Jerry would give to his younger self and anyone just entering the creative services industryAbout Jerry Koedding:Originally from Germany and based in Singapore, Jerry Koedding is the founder and Head of Production at Wave Films, a boutique production company that offers full-service creative execution through a vast network of freelancers and partners across Asia. With no formal training in film, Jerry has relied on his business background, creative instincts, and unmatched relationship-building skills to grow a nimble production powerhouse that serves brands, agencies, networks, and even other production houses.Wave Films specializes in content production for commercials, documentaries, TV shows, and social campaigns, and is known for delivering high-quality work without the traditional infrastructure.Jerry’s philosophy is simple: Stay lean. Hire smart. Treat production like hospitality. And never stop building relationships.Resources & Links: Wave Films Website Follow Wave Films on Instagram Connect with Jerry on LinkedIn Explore Wave Films ProjectsLike this episode?Leave a review, share it with a friend, or tag us on social media. Your support helps more small business owners discover what’s possible when you think differently about growth.🎙️ Small Business, Big Engine is hosted by Grant Fisher and features real conversations with founders, marketers, and creative entrepreneurs who are building stronger businesses by focusing on the engine, not just the aesthetics.

What would you do if your family suddenly lost your main revenue stream?That’s the question Amy Chinian faced during the 2008 recession. With five kids under the age of eight, zero income, and over a million dollars in debt, Amy had to figure out a way to survive. Her solution? Head lice.In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Amy shares how she turned a red picnic basket full of lice treatment products into My Hair Helpers, a thriving, multi-location service business with a national e-commerce arm and a growing nonprofit. But her story goes way beyond lice. This is about building something meaningful out of necessity, serving others in a highly stigmatized industry, and scaling a brand without compromising values.Amy walks us through:How she taught herself lice removal from scratch with no formal trainingWhy starting tiny was the key to surviving financially and emotionallyHow she landed her first customers and grew entirely through word-of-mouthThe moment she knew she needed to scale, and how she found people she could trustWhy she refused outside investors and built everything with her own cash flowWhat makes her proprietary products different (and why she avoids chemicals)How she approaches hiring, training, and quality control across six physical locationsHer strategy for dominating Google search and building a strong local presenceHow she handles competition, even when it comes from former employeesWhy customer reviews are the lifeblood of her brandThe surprising power of empathy in a stigmatized industryAmy also shares how her faith and mission drive the business. She talks about Lice Free Forever, her nonprofit that provides free treatment for families who can’t afford help, and why she believes giving back is just as important as growth.If you’re building a service-based business, running a small team, or just trying to figure out how to keep going when things get tough, this episode is packed with honest, hard-earned insight. Amy doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges—but she makes a strong case for staying lean, listening to your customers, and doing the work with integrity.This episode is for you if you’ve ever wondered:How do I build a business when I have no money?Can I grow a local service brand without going into debt?What if I’m in a niche that’s “embarrassing” or hard to market?How do I scale without giving up ownership or control?How do I create trust in a business people don’t like to talk about?Amy Chinian built something powerful out of a problem most people would rather avoid!Resources & Links:Visit My Hair Helpers: https://www.myhairhelpers.comFollow Amy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-chinian-90697b22Learn more about Lice Free Forever Charity: https://www.myhairhelpers.com/charity

What does it take to turn a side hustle into a thriving national brand? In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Lindsay Burgess, better known as the Moss Boss, to talk about how she built Green Wallscapes, one of the largest preserved moss wall companies in the United States.Lindsay’s journey didn’t start with a five-year business plan or a big round of funding. It started with a simple DIY project in her home and a few dollars a day in Etsy ads. Fast forward to today, and Green Wallscapes has completed more than 1,000 moss installations for clients across the U.S. and Canada, scaling from small custom logos to massive commercial projects covering thousands of square feet.In this conversation, Lindsay shares the behind-the-scenes story of what it really takes to grow a creative business from scratch, including the struggles, mistakes, and systems that made the difference along the way.You’ll hear about:The origins of Green Wallscapes and how a passion project turned into a full-time businessWhat those early Etsy ads taught her about testing the market and building momentumThe tipping point where she had to hire help and why delegation became essential for survivalHow she scaled operations from hand-gluing moss in her house to running a 2,500 sq ft studio with a team of nineWhy processes and documentation matter when every project is custom and no two client needs are alikeHow supply chain challenges and tariffs tested the business and what she learned about resilience during those timesThe culture shifts that come with building a team and why she chose quality people over chasing maximum scaleBalancing entrepreneurship and motherhood while rejecting the endless hustle cultureHer honest take on growth, money, and happiness - and why “bigger” isn’t always “better”Throughout the episode, Lindsay is candid about the reality of scaling a niche creative business. She explains how her background in marketing and branding gave her an edge when selling to clients, why her team now goes through “moss school” to meet Green Wallscapes’ high standards, and how she’s reframed success to prioritize balance and sustainability.This isn’t just a conversation about moss walls. It’s about entrepreneurship, leadership, and the evolving definition of success. Whether you’re a small business owner, a creative entrepreneur, or someone thinking about scaling your side hustle, Lindsay’s story will give you practical lessons and a fresh perspective on what it means to build something that lasts.To learn more, visit greenwallscapes.com or follow @greenwallscapes on Instagram.About Small Business, Big EngineHosted by Grant Fisher, Small Business, Big Engine explores the real stories of entrepreneurs, creators, and small business owners who are building powerful engines for growth. Each episode dives into the strategies, challenges, and lessons that shape their journey, giving you actionable insights to fuel your own business.If you enjoy this episode, hit follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and leave a review to help more listeners discover the show.

If you're a small business owner putting thousands of dollars on a credit card each month, this episode might save you tens of thousands in free travel... and completely change how you think about business spending.Today I’m joined by Ross Alcorn, founder of Itinerary Boss and host of the World Travel Made Easy podcast. Ross helps entrepreneurs turn everyday expenses into first-class travel by using the right credit card strategies, automation, and systems. If you're still using a debit card or a rewards card that sounded good in a commercial, this is the conversation you need to hear.Ross didn’t start in travel. He spent years in medical device sales, living out of hotel rooms and running himself into the ground. After realizing he was planning trips for friends better than most travel agents and wasting money on the wrong cards, he decided to build a business that gave others the freedom he was chasing himself.Now, 18 months in, he’s helping business owners unlock the hidden value in their monthly spend, build systems to avoid burnout, and create more freedom without sacrificing growth.The hidden cost of the wrong credit cardRoss explains why many business owners are missing out on thousands in free travel by using cards that don’t align with their biggest expenses. You’ll learn how a simple card change can lead to 3-4x the point value on the same spend.Beginner-friendly credit card strategyForget confusing point systems and endless card comparisons. Ross simplifies what really matters: how much you spend, where you spend it, and which card gives you the best ROI. He also shares his top picks.Delegation and automation that actually saves timeRoss shares how he built out systems using ClickUp, AI agents, and virtual assistants to grow faster without burning out. From podcast production to social media workflows, he explains how he decides what to keep and what to hand off.How to build a business that supports your lifeBurnout taught Ross the importance of designing a business around your lifestyle, not the other way around. He explains how he audits his time monthly, sets up systems to stay lean, and keeps the long-term vision in focus.Using AI to scale smarterFrom Zoom AI Companion to custom workflows in ClickUp, Ross shares the exact tools he’s using today, plus how he avoids the trap of experimenting with too many apps and not enough strategy.Why podcasting accelerated his business growthLaunching a podcast helped Ross grow his network, land affiliate deals, and establish himself in the points-and-miles space. He shares why it’s one of the smartest moves he made early on—and how it continues to open doors.What’s next: community and clarity for business travelersRoss is building a private community for business owners who want expert answers without digging through endless Facebook threads. He talks about how he’s shaping this space based on client feedback and what it will offer.Business owners with $5K or more in monthly spendFounders who want to travel more and work lessEntrepreneurs feeling stuck in the weeds or close to burnoutAnyone who’s never optimized their points strategyListeners curious about AI tools, ClickUp, Zapier, or automating daily tasks🌐 ItineraryBoss.com: Free cheat sheet on points and miles🎙️ World Travel Made Easy Podcast: Weekly episodes on travel strategy📧 Sign up for his newsletter on the site💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rossalcornruIf you found this episode helpful, do me a favor: subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who should be getting more out of their business spending.

What if hiring faster isn't the answer? And slowing down is the smartest move you can make?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Grant sits down with Travis Hann, co-founder of Pender & Howe, a modern executive search firm built for scale, transparency, and high performance. Travis shares the story behind starting the firm inside a legacy recruitment company, how they separated in 2022, and what it’s been like building a digital-first hiring platform in an industry that’s notoriously slow to change.If you’ve ever struggled with when to hire, how to hire, or whether you’re hiring the right kind of person, this conversation will hit home.Travis doesn’t just run a recruitment firm, he’s actively scaling one. With 11 full-time employees and over 20 contributors, he’s navigating the same decisions his clients are. He shares how he built the operational infrastructure before scaling, why his team uses tools like CRM integrations and client-facing dashboards to eliminate hiring black holes, and how the company is using strategic assessments and a retention-focused guarantee model to place leaders that actually stick.Grant and Travis dive into:The spark that led Travis to launch Pender & HoweHow they structured the business to scale without chaosWhat "digital-first" hiring actually looks like in practiceWhy hiring slowly and intentionally has been their competitive edgeThe internal systems and tools that have helped them stay nimbleWhy delegation is so hard for founders (and how Travis is learning to let go)How to know if your next hire is solving a real business problemWhat makes one hire derail a small team, and how to spot it earlyThe impact of AI and remote work on new grads and entry-level talentWhy great candidates rarely come from job boardsWhat Travis has learned from replacing founders and building leadership teamsYou’ll also hear Travis explain why culture fit isn’t just a buzzword, and how one wrong hire can shift everything in a 10-person team. He shares what he looks for in A-players (hint: it’s not a perfect resume), why so many people ignore the small signals during interviews, and how to structure your hiring process to actually learn what matters.Whether you’re hiring your first employee or your fiftieth, this episode will give you practical insight into how smart businesses approach recruiting, growth, and building great teams.Want more from Travis Hann?Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travis-hannLearn more about Pender & Howe: https://penderhowe.comLiked this episode?Please consider leaving a 5-star review and sharing it with another small business owner or founder who’s scaling a team. Every review helps more people find the show and helps us spotlight more brilliant guests like Travis.

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I sit down with Lauren Cockerell, founder and president of Kwedar & Co., a boutique public relations and communications firm based in Fort Worth, Texas. Lauren’s journey from solo consultant to leading a team of eight offers a, behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to scale a high-touch service business.We talk about what Lauren calls the “messy middle,” that critical stage between solopreneurship and sustainable growth, and how she navigated it without burning out or compromising her values. From letting go of control to learning how to hire the right people, Lauren shares the lessons she’s learned as a small business owner trying to do meaningful work in a crowded market.You’ll learn:Why Lauren walked away from the corporate world and started her own PR firm while 8 months pregnantThe early fears she had about hiring her first team member, and the mentor advice that gave her the push she neededHow to know when you’ve become the bottleneck in your businessWhat to look for (and avoid) when hiring for a small teamThe power of PR for B2B companies, especially those who think they’re “too boring” to be featuredHow storytelling can unlock growth, momentum, and visibility for legacy businessesLauren’s framework for working with clients as thought partners, not vendorsWhy a “heck yes or no” policy saved her from repeated hiring mistakesThe overlooked PR opportunity most small businesses missWhether you're a creative entrepreneur, a founder growing a service business, or a leader in a traditional B2B industry looking to improve your visibility, this conversation is packed with insight. Lauren breaks down the inner workings of running a successful PR agency while staying rooted in empathy, client trust, and long-term relationships.She also shares one of the most compelling PR success stories from her firm, how a family-owned furniture company went from an overlooked product launch to being celebrated in local and national media once the real story was uncovered.Topics we cover in this episode:Scaling a service-based agencySmall business hiring best practicesLeadership growth in creative businessesPublic relations strategy for B2B companiesWhy storytelling is a competitive advantageHow to build a team you can trustClient relationship managementIdeal client profiles and red flagsPR tools, platforms, and common mistakesTurning a one-time event into long-term momentumAbout Lauren:Lauren Cockerell is the founder of Kwedar & Co., a communications firm specializing in helping legacy B2B businesses clarify their message and earn the visibility they deserve. Her agency supports clients across industries including manufacturing, insurance, and professional services. She’s also the host of The Impatient Entrepreneur podcast, where she offers candid insights for fellow founders learning to scale their businesses with heart and hustle.Connect with Lauren:🌐 Website: https://www.kwedarco.com📱 Instagram: @kwedarco🎙 Podcast: The Impatient Entrepreneur

What if the reason your business isn’t growing… is you?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Jordan Eaton, the founder of Boss Assistants, to talk about one of the most common reasons small business owners stay stuck: trying to do it all.Jordan built Boss Assistants after seeing too many entrepreneurs crumble under the weight of admin, client work, and everything in between. Her agency helps business owners get out of the weeds and back into their zone of genius through a mix of virtual assistant support, automation, marketing help, and system design.Whether you’re burning the candle at both ends or wondering when it’s finally time to ask for help, this episode gives you real talk and practical strategies to stop being the bottleneck in your business.How to know when it’s time to hire a VA (before you burn out)The biggest mindset shift you need to delegate effectivelyWhat “conscious delegation” means, and why it worksWhy Jordan hires only full-time employees (not freelancers)The red flags she looks for when choosing clients (yes, she interviews them)How Boss Assistants onboards clients fast without sacrificing qualityCommon delegation mistakes that cost business owners time and moneyWhere AI fits (and where it doesn’t) in building a sustainable businessThe ROI of virtual assistants, from inbox management to lead generationHow to keep the human touch in a digital-first, remote-work worldJordan Eaton is the founder and CEO of Boss Assistants, a Canadian-based agency serving small business owners across North America. Her team of full-time virtual assistants and marketing professionals helps entrepreneurs build businesses that support their lives, not consume them. With a background in executive support and firsthand experience with entrepreneurial burnout, Jordan now helps others reclaim their time, reduce their stress, and scale more intentionally.Boss Assistants supports clients with everything from inbox cleanup, calendar management, and customer service, to social media, podcast editing, and lead gen, without the complexity of managing freelancers or hiring full-time staff on your own.If your inbox is out of control, your calendar is packed with low-leverage tasks, and your stress levels are spiking, this conversation is your sign: you don’t have to keep doing it all yourself.Jordan breaks down the exact process her team uses to integrate with new clients quickly, create calm out of chaos, and help founders regain creative focus. This isn’t a conversation about fluffy mindset. This is about building systems that free you up so your business can scale without you working 24/7.She also shares how she’s navigating the rise of automation and AI tools, and where the human touch still matters most in virtual support.Website: https://bossassistants.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-eatonIf this episode gave you something to think about—or made you breathe a little easier, please leave a 5-star review wherever you’re listening. It helps more small business owners find the show and build their own powerful engines.

What if the secret to small business growth isn’t grinding harder, but building smarter?Small Business, Big Engine is the show where real small business owners share how they’ve built momentum. Hosted by Grant Fisher, a longtime product designer and founder of SingleStack, the podcast takes you behind the scenes of companies across industries, from solo service providers and franchisees to brick-and-mortar owners and creative entrepreneurs.Each week, Grant sits down with business builders who are doing more than just staying afloat. They’re creating systems, hiring with intention, building visibility, and getting creative with how they serve their customers. These aren’t polished highlight reels. They’re honest, tactical, and often surprising conversations about the challenges and wins of running a small business in today’s world.You'll hear stories like:How Andrea Boddeker, a Card My Yard franchise owner, transitioned from independent business ownership to franchising, and the unexpected marketing challenges that came with managing a hyper-local, high-touch serviceHow Reed Hansen of MarketSurge built a results-first marketing agency by helping small business clients plug the gaps in their lead systems, starting with something as simple (and costly) as missed phone callsHow Darcy Cudmore went from freelancing on Fiverr to running his own successful PR agency, and why trust, relationships, and simplicity drive everything he doesHow Jeff Shiffman and Kate Finan of Boom Box Post created a thriving post-production sound studio by intentionally crafting a culture of generosity in a hyper-competitive industryAnd how Elyse Petersen of Tealet is using blockchain to disrupt global tea trade and connect farmers directly with consumers, all while navigating the challenges of transparency, scaling, and market educationThe show also features guests like:Jonathan Fisher, who opened a beverage company during the pandemic and shares what it really takes to stay resilient when the hype fadesBrady Lowe, a hospitality entrepreneur who shares why thoughtful engagement is the most overlooked growth strategy in the next decadeRobert Kennedy III, a storytelling expert who helps business owners communicate in ways that actually connect with their audienceAnd many more creative and resourceful leaders who aren’t waiting for permission, they’re building their own enginesWhether you’re trying to increase your visibility, get more leads, manage your team better, or simply create a business that doesn’t run you into the ground, this podcast is for you.You’ll walk away from each episode with ideas you can actually put into practice. We cover topics like:Marketing and content strategy for small teamsAutomation tools and systems that save timeClient experience and retention tacticsHiring, delegation, and leadership for small teamsBuilding authority in crowded industriesWhat AI can (and can’t) do for your businessAnd how to grow without burning outIf you’re tired of vague advice and cookie-cutter growth hacks, you’ll find Small Business, Big Engine refreshingly real.Grant brings a direct, no-fluff approach to every conversation, asking the questions most business owners don’t get asked — about their decisions, failures, experiments, and wins. It's a podcast built for business owners who are learning as they go but aren’t content to stay stuck.New episodes drop every week. Subscribe now and start learning from entrepreneurs who are in the trenches, building smart, sustainable businesses on their own terms.

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Jeff Shiffman and Kate Finan, the co-founders of Boom Box Post, a boutique audio post-production studio based in Burbank, California. Known for their award-winning sound design work on projects for Netflix, Nickelodeon, Disney, Amazon, and more, Jeff and Kate are reshaping what it means to run a creative studio that’s nimble, inclusive, and fiercely independent.Boom Box Post started as a leap of faith, a breakaway from the corporate world of Warner Bros. to build something smaller, more agile, and more aligned with their values as creatives. What followed was the transformation of a literal auto body shop into a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos equipped facility with a culture unlike anything else in the sound design world.In this conversation, we explore how Jeff and Kate built their studio from the ground up, why they prioritize design-focused storytelling, and how they’ve maintained strong client relationships with some of the biggest names in entertainment. We dive into their paid apprenticeship program, their 50/50 gender parity hiring approach, and how fostering a generous, collaborative culture has helped them thrive in one of the most competitive corners of the entertainment industry.You’ll also hear their candid take on the rise of AI in audio post-production, why transparency and kindness still give them a competitive edge, and how they’re future-proofing their business by expanding into features, podcasts, and digital sound libraries.Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur, studio owner, sound professional, or just curious about how top-tier studios operate behind the scenes, this episode is packed with practical wisdom on how to build a creative business that lasts.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why Jeff and Kate left a major studio to build Boom Box PostHow they transformed an old auto shop into a world-class sound facilityWhat it means to be a “design-focused” audio post studioHow they created a company culture centered on generosity and collaborationThe strategy behind their paid apprenticeship programHow they maintain 50/50 gender parity in a male-dominated industryTheir thoughts on AI, automation, and the future of sound designHow they manage recurring work, client relationships, and creative riskWhy kindness and communication still win in a high-stakes industryWhat’s next for Boom Box Post, from features to podcasts to sound librariesFeatured Projects Mentioned:Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Netflix)StuGo (Disney+)Wild PAK (Nickelodeon)Invincible (Amazon Prime)Resources & Mentions:Boom Box Post WebsiteBoom Box BlogBoom Box LibraryKate Finan on LinkedInJeff Shiffman on LinkedInConnect with Boom Box Post:→ Visit: boomboxpost.com→ Contact: Use their contact form for inquiries, all messages go directly to Jeff and Kate→ Follow their blog for weekly insights into sound design, team culture, and creative workflowsAbout the Podcast:Small Business, Big Engine is a weekly podcast hosted by Grant Fisher, where we explore the stories and strategies of creative entrepreneurs who are building strong, sustainable businesses. Each episode dives into the real-world tools, decisions, and philosophies that power small business success.Like this episode?Be sure to leave a 5-star review!

What if your next five clients were already in your database, you just needed a smarter system to catch them before they slipped through the cracks?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I’m joined by Reed Hansen, Chief Growth Officer at MarketSurge.io, who specializes in helping small and local businesses turn lost leads into booked appointments, without adding more hours to the day.Reed grew up in a family-run landscaping business and watched firsthand what happens when great work isn’t paired with consistent marketing. Today, he’s built a career solving that exact problem for other business owners. At MarketSurge, Reed and his team help solopreneurs, service professionals, and lean teams build repeatable systems for local visibility, reputation management, and lead generation using smart automations, proven SEO strategies, and AI-driven tools.Whether you're a photographer, HVAC pro, plumber, or boutique agency owner, this conversation is packed with real-world tactics you can apply this week to stay fully booked and build a marketing engine that runs without you.What We Cover in This Episode:✅ Reed’s early lessons from a family business, and why marketing made all the difference✅ The "feast and famine" cycle that traps so many business owners✅ Why local SEO is still a goldmine (and how to get your Google Business Profile to work for you)✅ How automation helps you ask for referrals and reviews without lifting a finger✅ The one simple CRM automation that closes leads from missed calls✅ How to collect 5-star reviews at scale, and what to do with them afterward✅ Tips for creating trust at scale through newsletters and podcasts✅ How to differentiate in a crowded marketing agency space✅ Reed’s take on AI: tools that are actually useful for small businesses✅ Templatizing your onboarding process and service delivery to scale smarter✅ The difference between long-tail brand-building and immediate ROI, and when to invest in bothWho This Episode Is For:Small business owners struggling to stay consistent with marketingSolopreneurs trying to systematize their sales and lead-genService-based businesses looking to get more Google reviewsAnyone looking for high-leverage, low-effort marketing winsEntrepreneurs curious about using AI without being a developerFounders trying to grow without hiring a full in-house teamResources Mentioned:MarketSurge.io - Reed’s company focused on automating marketing for small businessesInside Marketing with MarketSurge - Reed’s podcast on practical marketingGoogle Business Profile Get your local presence optimizedTools like ClickUp, Cursor AI, and others mentioned for workflow automationConnect with Reed Hansen:Website: MarketSurge.ioEmail: [email protected]: Inside Marketing with MarketSurge (available on all major platforms)LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/reedhansenIf this episode gave you an idea or an action step, hit “Follow” and share it with someone else running a growing business. Small Business, Big Engine is here to bring you conversations that help you build smarter, grow leaner, and create engines that work even when you’re not online.

What does it take to go from $5 gigs on Fiverr to running a digital PR and SEO agency that consistently earns media coverage in outlets like GoDaddy, HubSpot, Entrepreneur, and Forbes?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Darcy Cudmore, founder of RepuLinks, to share how he scaled from solo freelancer to business owner with a growing remote team and a reputation for results.Darcy started out on platforms like Fiverr and Upwork, using every opportunity to build his skills, collect five-star reviews, and earn repeat business. That foundation eventually opened the door to larger clients, agencies, and long-term growth. Today, RepuLinks focuses entirely on organic link building and digital PR, helping clients gain valuable backlinks and expert mentions without paying for placements or cutting corners.Whether you're new to PR or trying to grow your SEO the right way, Darcy offers a practical roadmap based on real experience.In this episode, you'll learn:✔ How Darcy turned Fiverr gigs into a full-scale business✔ What makes organic backlinks more valuable than ever✔ How platforms like HARO, Qwoted, and Featured help you earn press✔ Why speed, quality, and consistency are key to media outreach✔ What to know before hiring or scaling a small team✔ How to build trust and visibility without a traditional PR budget✔ Why AI is increasing the value of earned, expert-driven content✔ The biggest lessons Darcy learned while growing RepuLinksWhat is RepuLinks?RepuLinks is a white-hat digital PR and SEO agency that helps brands grow online visibility by securing earned backlinks through expert quotes, journalist pitches, and organic media opportunities. The team monitors platforms daily, responds with tailored insights, and helps clients get featured in highly trusted publications. This process increases domain authority, builds brand credibility, and drives long-term SEO performance.Darcy and his team offer a done-for-you service that delivers guaranteed link volume through consistent, human-centered outreach.Who is this episode for?This conversation is a must-listen for:Small business owners trying to grow organic trafficFounders looking to build long-term SEO authorityFreelancers aiming to move from service provider to business ownerMarketers seeking real-world PR strategies that don’t rely on pay-to-play tacticsAnyone interested in modern link-building, SEO, and visibilityResources Mentioned:Platforms: HARO, Qwoted, Featured, SOSRepuLinks: www.repulinks.comConnect with Darcy:LinkedIn: Darcy CudmoreWebsite: www.repulinks.comDarcy offers free 20 to 30-minute calls for those interested in learning how to manage organic media outreach in-house. No strings attached.Enjoyed this episode?Make sure to subscribe to Small Business, Big Engine and leave a review. It helps other listeners discover the show and brings more visibility to stories like Darcy's. Thanks for listening.

How Brady Built a $2M+ Agency With No Full-Time StaffBrady shares the evolution of Taste Network, which started in 2002 with wine and cheese pairings and scaled into a multi-city culinary festival that brought together chefs, farmers, winemakers, and food lovers in an entirely new way.You will learn how he:Turned relationship equity into his main growth strategyBuilt community through story-driven eventsScaled Cochon555 into a 20-city tour with more than 20,000 attendees per yearExited the event business and shifted into systems consulting and AI-powered coachingWhy Storytelling Beats Branding Every TimeBrady explains why people connect with narrative over names."Narrative is still king."He breaks down how crafting a meaningful story—not just for your product, but for your audience—is the fastest path to resonance, referrals, and retention.The Offset Strategy: High-Impact Events Without High BudgetsBrady shares one of his most effective and repeatable strategies for producing high-quality events without breaking the bank. Known as The Offset Strategy, it is rooted in building long-term relationships with aligned vendors instead of short-term sponsorships with random brands."I only included products I’d want in my own house."It is a playbook for building brand integrity and curating experiences that feel cohesive and memorable.AI Adoption for Operators: Why It MattersBrady compares avoiding AI today to refusing the internet in 2002.We talk about:Why founders need to engage with AI dailyHow ChatGPT can replace clunky internal meetings and reportsA simple weekly AI reflection ritual that drives team clarity and alignmentHe introduces a 3-question system he uses with his team every Friday:1. What were my highs and lows this week?2. What can I do to radically increase revenue?3. What can I do to radically increase accountability?This is a practical and fast habit that can work for nearly any kind of business.Brady also breaks down Accelerator, his white-labeled CRM ecosystem built on GoHighLevel, designed for hospitality, creative, and service-based entrepreneurs.Accelerator integrates:CRM and pipeline trackingFunnel and landing page buildersMulti-channel messaging and engagementAutomated review generation and email/SMS marketingFully built websites with connected automationsQuotes from this episode"If you are still managing customer touchpoints in spreadsheets or disconnected tools, this part of the episode will give you the systems-level thinking you need to modernize.""If you’re not using AI first, you’re already falling behind.""You can’t throw an epic event if you’re cheap. But you don’t have to go broke if you build the right relationships.""It’s like walking into a restaurant and the hostess doesn’t even look at you. That’s what ghosting your audience feels like.""I want to scale from a lazy $2M to a focused $10M, and I want to take 100 people with me.""Your business needs a North Star. If you don’t have one, you’ll burn out chasing tactics."Who this episode is for:Small business owners who want to scale with purposeMarketing professionals looking to connect more deeply with their audienceEvent planners and brand builders searching for smarter systemsCreative entrepreneurs navigating how to apply AI in their workflowCoaches, consultants, and service providers ready to operationalize growthAnyone building a business with clarity, systems, and a missionResources Mentioned in This EpisodeTaste Network: https://tastenetwork.comAccelerator CRM PlatformNext10 Coaching ProgramChatGPT (for team engagement, weekly check-ins, and playbooks)GoHighLevel (the software foundation behind Accelerator)How to Connect with Brady LoweWebsite: https://tastenetwork.comInstagram: @bradylowe75LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tastenetwork

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, we explore how to use storytelling and communication to grow your business, even if you don't see yourself as a speaker.Grant sits down with Robert Kennedy III, a professional speaker, storytelling strategist, and founder of Kennetik Kommunications. They talk about how small business owners can craft messages that connect, convert, and build lasting trust.You’ll learn:Why every business needs three core stories: origin, client, and conversionA simple framework (E.A.S.E.) to structure your message with impactHow to overcome fear and start speaking with confidenceHow to keep your voice authentic in a world filled with AI-generated contentWhy showing up on camera as yourself is a powerful visibility toolWhether you're leading a team, pitching to clients, or building your brand online, this episode will help you communicate with more clarity, confidence, and purpose.Love this episode? Got feedback? Email Grant at [email protected]

AI is everywhere... But how do you actually use it in a way that supports your business instead of distracting from it? In this episode, I’m talking with Erin Stewart, founder of Scenic West Consulting, about how small teams and product-focused businesses can build AI strategies that are both practical and powerful.We get into the real talk around AI implementation, including:What most teams get wrong about using AI toolsHow to think about AI in your product roadmapTools Erin’s team actually uses for UX and product strategyWhy senior talent matters more than ever in the age of AIHow to know when AI shouldn’t be part of your solutionWhether you’re a founder, product leader, or designer experimenting with AI, this conversation will give you a grounded, smart approach to using AI in your business—without the hype.🔗 Learn more about Erin at scenicwest.coSubscribe to Small Business, Big Engine for more real conversations about what it takes to grow something that lasts.

In this episode, Grant talks with Elyse Peterson, founder of Tealet, a global tea marketplace that connects independent farmers directly to buyers.Elyse shares how she went from working in the food industry to joining the Peace Corps, then unexpectedly launching a startup that took her to 500 Startups in Silicon Valley. She did it all without a pitch deck or formal business plan.We talk about:How a chance invitation to a Startup Weekend changed everythingWhy she’s building a transparent, decentralized supply chainHow blockchain and crypto help her avoid high banking feesWhat it’s like to grow a global business as a solo founderWhy she’s now buying back her company from early investorsThe big idea behind sailboat shipping and the new Boston Tea PartyWhat she wishes she had known before taking investmentElyse’s story is full of insight, grit, and thoughtful innovation. If you care about doing business differently and building something with purpose, you’ll enjoy this conversation.🔗 Learn more about Tealet: https://tealet.com📲 Follow Elyse on TikTok: @tealettea

What does it really take to build a product-based business from scratch—and grow it profitably without outside investors?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Jonathan Fisher, founder and CEO of Bevanda, a growing product brand best known for its insulated lunchboxes and stainless steel beverage dispensers designed for the trades. Jonathan shares how he scaled the company with intentionality, overcame inventory nightmares, made bold manufacturing decisions, including a $250,000 printer purchase while doing just $200K in revenue—and why he turned down acquisition offers and VC funding to stay true to his vision.We also dive into:How to validate your product through feedback from non-buyersWhy Bevanda is rebranding to focus entirely on the tradesThe risks of trying to be everything to everyoneHow bootstrapped brands can grow without burning outLessons learned from failed marketing campaigns and expensive live eventsIf you're a founder, entrepreneur, or small business owner trying to grow a product-based company, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom you won’t hear on most highlight-reel podcasts.🔗 Visit bevandaproducts.com to explore Bevanda’s latest products📱 Follow Jonathan on LinkedIn: Jonathan Fisher, CEO of Bevanda00:00 – Intro02:00 – From Retail Store to Product Business04:45 – Early Growth and Big Risks07:30 – Inventory Challenges & Seasonality10:20 – Turning Down Big Retail Deals12:00 – The Power of Focused Product Development17:15 – A Failed Live Event and What It Taught Them20:00 – Positioning Mistakes and the Path to Rebranding23:15 – Bevanda’s New Focus on the Trades25:15 – Direct-to-Consumer Challenges27:30 – Hiring for Marketing After Years of Hesitation30:30 – What the Future Looks Like35:30 – Advice for Entrepreneurs in Manufacturing39:00 – What to Ask the Customers Who Don’t Buy42:40 – Where to Find Bevanda Products

What does it take to keep a creative agency relevant for over 30 years - especially in a world where consumer behavior shifts overnight?In this episode, Grant sits down with Sam Sohaili, Partner at DMA United, a New York-based agency known for shaping global brands at the intersection of fashion, sports, and culture. From early collaborations with Mercedes-Benz at Fashion Week to navigating today’s AI-driven marketing landscape, Sam shares a behind-the-scenes look at how DMA has stayed agile, relevant, and ahead of the curve.Key sections00:00 - The power of being nimble: Fashion Week, Mercedes-Benz, and value-based branding03:15 - Marketing as plate tectonics: Pressure, time, and brand alignment06:30 - How AI changed the branding process overnight09:10 - Staying relevant for 30+ years in a fast-changing industry11:45 - How belief forms faster now - and what that means for brands14:20 - Why consumers are ahead of brands - and how to catch up17:05 - Marketing on gaming platforms: From fringe to foundational19:30 - What small businesses can learn from big brand strategy21:10 - The role of brand voice, strategy, and consistency across teams23:40 - Final thoughts on staying innovative and building long-term trustWhether you’re running a small business or leading a growing brand, this conversation is packed with insight on how to stay relevant in a culture that won’t sit still.Keywords for SEO:Brand strategy, agency growth, marketing trends, consumer behavior, small business marketing, AI in branding, brand voice, long-term brand relevance, creative agency, DMA United, Sam Sohaili, fashion and marketing, brand innovation, customer trust, brand alignmentFollow the show for more real stories and smart strategies behind small business success.New episodes drop on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Subscribe, share, and leave us a review!

What does it take to build a business that thrives, even when you’re not in the room?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Grant Fisher sits down with Ryan Timmons, founder of Heritage Barbershop in Middle Tennessee, to explore how he scaled a local barbershop into a high-performing, reputation-driven business with 9 barbers and nearly 2,000 monthly clients, all while managing it from over 1,000 miles away.Ryan shares his journey from the restaurant industry to barbering at age 37, why he emphasizes experience over ego, and the simple rules that keep his team aligned.You’ll learn:How to lead a service business without being on-siteWhy customer loyalty is built through consistency, not just skillWhat makes a great barber, and why soft skills matter more than the fadeHow to plan growth without losing culture or profitabilityWhether you're running a barbershop, salon, or any service-based business, Ryan’s story is packed with real-world insights on sustainable growth, team culture, and operational leadership.💈 Learn more or book an appointment: heritagebarbershoptn.com📱 Follow on Instagram: @heritagebarbershoptn

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Lucy Wahl, founder of LMW Edits - a San Francisco-based home organizing company known for its practical systems, high-touch service, and life-enhancing impact on busy professionals and young families.Lucy didn’t set out to be a business owner. Her journey started in nonprofit fundraising before earning her MBA at UCLA. But instead of returning to the fundraising world, Lucy took a risk: she asked what she was really good at - and turned her gift for organization into a thriving business. Over 10 years later, LMW Edits is known not just for transforming spaces, but for improving lives.In this conversation, Lucy shares the behind-the-scenes of growing a service-based business that’s both personal and professional. You’ll hear how she:Discovered her niche by listening to what friends and family already saw in herBuilt a brand in a “high-trust” industry where marketing has to feel real and humanNavigates the tension between being the face of the brand and building a scalable teamThinks about recurring clients, word-of-mouth marketing, and long-term growthApproaches business differently as someone not chasing traditional startup scaleBalances mission, profitability, and lifestyle as a founder grounded in serviceShe also opens up about:How COVID forced her to rethink her services and offer virtual organizingHer strategy for training new team members through a paid apprenticeship modelThe ceiling she sees in service-based business models - and why she’s exploring thought leadership and mentorship as her next chapterWhether you’re a solo entrepreneur, service provider, or someone just trying to make home life less chaotic, Lucy brings clear insights and relatable honesty about what it means to build a business with intention.Topics covered include:Finding your niche in a crowded marketBuilding trust-based relationships with clientsHow to train and scale a team without compromising qualityWhy organizing is about systems, not just aestheticsThe real ROI of an organized home - less stress, fewer arguments, more freedomHow to transition from in-the-business to on-the-business thinkingWhy recurring revenue isn’t always the holy grail - and what to do insteadNew episodes of Small Business, Big Engine drop every Tuesday and Thursday. Remember to subscribe so you don't miss future episodes. Thanks for listening!

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Austin Schulenburg, founder of Pen and Mug, a Nashville-based creative studio that grew from a solo freelance practice into a thriving nine-person team.Austin shares the behind-the-scenes story of how he made the leap from corporate designer to full-time entrepreneur... and why doing it slowly and intentionally was the best decision he ever made. We dive into the turning point that made his business feel “real,” the power of retainer clients, and how he balances creativity with the demands of business ownership.You’ll hear:Why Austin didn’t name his company after himself - and how that choice shaped his visionThe slow, steady, and smart approach to going full-timeHow retainer clients became the backbone of his studioThe challenges of letting go and scaling a creative teamWhy he’s not chasing explosive growth - and what he’s focused on insteadWhether you're a freelancer dreaming of building a team or a founder figuring out how to delegate without losing your edge, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical takeaways.👉 Learn more about Pen and Mug: penandmug.com📸 Follow them on Instagram: @penandmug

What if your random doodles in meetings could launch a global business?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with William Warren, founder and CEO of The Sketch Effect—a visual communication company that helps brands bring ideas to life through live illustration, animation, and graphic recording.William shares the story of how a casual creative outlet during his corporate job turned into a full-time business, the six-month side hustle runway he used to make the leap, and the key decisions that helped him scale a creative service into a sustainable operation. From hiring his first team members to building a repeatable process for artistic quality, this conversation is packed with lessons for creatives, solopreneurs, and anyone looking to grow a service-based business.🎙️ Topics covered:Turning a creative skill into a paid serviceHow to transition from a side hustle to a full-time businessScaling a creative company while protecting the creative sparkThe power of visual storytelling in corporate communicationBuilding a business that doesn’t revolve around youIf you’re a creative entrepreneur or just looking for inspiration to make your business more engaging, this episode is for you.🔗 Learn more at thesketcheffect.com or williamcwarren.com

Public speaking isn’t just for keynote pros—it’s one of the most overlooked growth tools in small business. In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I sit down with Eva Daniel, founder of The Speak Shop and former speechwriter for Dave Ramsey, to talk about how entrepreneurs can build confidence, grow their audience, and land more clients through strategic speaking.Eva shares how her time at Ramsey Solutions helped her step into entrepreneurship, the power of content creation on platforms like LinkedIn, and why every business owner should have at least one signature speech. Whether you’re pitching, networking, or sharing your story on a stage, Eva breaks down how to improve your message and delivery—no matter your experience level.We cover:​Why speaking is a high-ROI visibility tool for small businesses​How Eva transitioned from corporate to solo business owner​How content marketing (especially on LinkedIn) drives inbound leads​Why most delivery problems are actually content problems​A practical framework for building your first signature speech​How to give and receive useful feedback on your talks​The role of in-person networking and referrals in long-term growthIf you’ve ever said “I’m not a speaker,” this episode will challenge that and give you the tools to start.🔗 Connect with Eva:TheSpeakShop.comLinkedIn: Eva Rose Daniel🎧 New episodes of Small Business, Big Engine drop every Tuesday and Thursday. Follow the show and leave a review if this helped you!

What started as a backyard obsession with Japanese maples turned into a thriving, high-end landscaping business serving the Nashville area. In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Colby Jenkins, founder of Maple Hills Nursery and Maple Hills Design, to unpack how he went from pruning trees on his lunch break to building a design-build firm that handles 6-figure outdoor living projects.Colby shares his journey from commercial banker to business owner, how he made his first $1,600 on Facebook Marketplace, and the moment he realized he was sitting on a real business. We talk about the power of focusing on one product, why good marketing matters more than just relying on word-of-mouth, and how he strategically positioned his business to attract premium clients.In this conversation, you’ll learn:How to turn a niche passion into a profitable businessThe difference between doing the work and designing the visionWhen it’s time to stop being the labor and start being the leaderWhy high-end clients require a different mindset — and different marketingThe value of borrowed branding and strategic partnershipsHow to fire bad clients without losing your peaceWhat to consider before scaling your service-based businessWhether you’re in landscaping, design, or just trying to grow your side hustle into a full-time gig, this episode is full of honest insights on entrepreneurship, client management, and marketing that actually works.🎧 Follow the show for new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

Jeremy Mitchell didn’t plan to start a baseball bat company, he just had an idea, some design skills, and a passion for baseball. In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, we dive into how Mitchell Bat Co started, a custom-painted bat brand that went viral within days, got featured by ESPN, and landed licensing deals with NCAA programs and major brands like Jack Daniels.You’ll hear how Jeremy kickstarted the business while working a full-time job, how he navigated college and pro sports licensing, and what it’s really like to turn a side hustle into a sustainable product business.What we talked about:​The moment Mitchell Bat Co. launched during Game 6 of the 2013 World Series​How early exposure on Instagram and ESPN led to unexpected growth​The behind-the-scenes of sports licensing with NCAA, MLBPA, and more​Why keeping a day job isn’t a failure—it’s a smart strategyLearn more at: https://mitchellbatco.comIf you read this far, you are my favorite 👋

In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Grant Fisher sits down with Hailey Johnston, founder of Project Free 2 Fly, a mission-driven small business based in Cleveland, Tennessee. What started as a handmade sewing business has grown into a nonprofit-social enterprise that empowers women in crisis through employment, life skills, and community support.Hailey shares how she turned a simple idea into a sustainable organization—balancing retail operations, fundraising, and mentorship. You'll hear how she navigated early challenges, built a supportive team, and created a program that helps women gain independence, confidence, and long-term career success.Whether you're building a purpose-driven brand, starting a nonprofit, or just looking for inspiration on how business can change lives, this episode is packed with practical insights.Topics Covered:How to launch a mission-driven business from scratchHiring with purpose and building the right teamManaging the dual roles of nonprofit and retail operationsCreating impact through community-focused entrepreneurshipTips for growing without losing your vision

In this conversation, Andrea Boddeker shares her experiences as a franchise owner, discussing the importance of marketing, creativity, and customer relationships in running a successful business. She highlights the support provided by the franchise, the challenges of navigating social media, and the significance of understanding seasonal trends in business growth. Andrea reflects on her journey, the lessons learned, and the balance between structure and creativity in the franchise model.02:58 Transitioning from Printing to Franchising05:47 Marketing Challenges and Solutions08:37 Franchise Support and Community11:41 Creative Limitations in a Franchise14:38 Evaluating Franchise vs. Independent Business17:27 Understanding the Competitive Landscape20:27 Growth Strategies and Revenue Predictions21:41 Understanding Seasonal Business Trends25:05 The Importance of Recurring Customers27:29 Challenges in Business Operations27:33 Navigating Franchise Ownership34:34 Connecting with Customers35:53 Transitioning from Print to Franchise36:16 Navigating the Franchise Landscape36:28 The Importance of Knowing Your Strengths

What if the biggest obstacle in your business... is you?In this episode of Small Business, Big Engine, I’m joined by Aaron Bellar—military chaplain, executive coach, and university instructor—who shares how 30 years of experience in high-stakes leadership shaped his no-nonsense approach to coaching high performers.We dive into:​Why most business problems are personal problems in disguise​How empowering questions can fuel breakthrough growth​The difference between transformation and advice​Why clarity is more powerful than hustle​How to lead yourself before you lead othersWhether you're scaling a company, leading a team, or building something from scratch, Aaron's perspective will challenge you to look inward, build emotional intelligence, and grow across every dimension of your life—not just in business.👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode helped you reframe your next step.🎧 Learn more about how we're helping entrepreneurs grow at SingleStack.ioIf you read this far, you’re awesome 👋#LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoaching #Entrepreneurship #SelfLeadership #PersonalGrowth #SmallBusinessPodcast #BusinessMindset

🎙️ In this episode of Small Business Big Engine, host Grant Fisher sits down with Brittany Katz, owner of Terra Running Company in Cleveland, Tennessee. Brittany shares her how she made the leap from middle school teacher to becoming a small business owner in a new city, and how she built a thriving running store that’s now the heartbeat of Cleveland’s active community.From launching race events and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, to making the emotional decision to close her coffee shop, Brittany talks candidly about what it really takes to run (literally) a successful local business. Whether you're a runner, a small biz dreamer, or just love a great story — this one's got miles of insight.📍 Visit Terra Running Company in person: Click for directions🌐 Online: www.terrarunning.com👟 Topics: small business growth, Cleveland TN, running store success, event marketing, community building, entrepreneurship lessons

Can you grow a successful business and stay true to your purpose? In this episode, we chat with Shannon Greer—pastor, entrepreneur, and founder of Cadence Coffee Company and the Oasis Center in Chattanooga. Shannon shares how he built a multi-location coffee business that does more than sell great coffee—it builds community, supports nonprofits, and lives out a mission every single day. We dive into leadership, family, scaling with heart, and what it really means to blend profit with purpose.

In the first episode of Small Business, Big Engine, Grant Fisher chats with Bryan Meeker about his journey as the owner of Nextdoor Photos, a real estate photography business. Bryan shares insights on the challenges of hiring, scaling his business, and the importance of having a business coach. Bryan emphasizes the significance of building a strong team, managing client relationships, and the strategies he employs for predictable revenue. He also reflects on the lessons learned from difficult client experiences and the resilience required to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.