Better Business for Small Business Leaders
Better Business for Small Business is a podcast for entrepreneurs seeking daily improvement. Hosted by Chrissy Myers, CEO of AUI and Clarity HR, it features real-world stories and expert insights from small business owners who blend passion, purpose, and philanthropy to drive success.
Episodes
Courtney Kalfas Shares The Secret To Scaling Through Culture
Send us Fan MailConstruction is a masterclass in high-stakes leadership: tight timelines, nonstop decisions, and zero room for sloppy communication. We talk with Courtney Kalfas, president of RA Kalfas Construction, about what it takes to build a business that stays steady when projects get messy and plans change. From her early years around the trades to leading a design-build remodeling company
Leah Hadley on How Leaders Can Reduce Financial Stress
Send us Fan MailYou can hit revenue goals, look polished online, and still feel a tight knot in your stomach every time you open your bank account. That disconnect is exactly where this conversation goes. We sit down with Leah Hadley, founder of Intentional Wealth Partners and Intentional Divorce Solutions, to talk about financial wellness as a real-world leadership practice, not a spreadsheet exe
Leia Love Shares Why Purpose Matters More Than Profit
Send us Fan MailWhat if the business you built could help someone recognize themselves again? That question sits at the heart of my conversation with Dr. Leia Love, a restorative tattoo specialist, educator, speaker, and founder of the Leia Love Spark Beauty Fund. Her work lives in a rare space where beauty, health care, and healing overlap, and it shows what “purpose-driven business” looks like w
Peter Geise Explains Why Revenue Is Up But Profit Is Missing
Send us Fan MailYour revenue can look “fine” and still leave you wondering why the business is not throwing off the profit it should. That frustration is usually a signal that something deeper is happening underneath the numbers. We sit down with Peter Geis, Akron Area President of Focus CFO, a fractional CFO leader and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt who has helped everyone from Fortune-scale teams to
Heather Terry on Why You Should Start With Your KPIs Before Buying Another AI Tool
Send us Fan MailYour team doesn’t need another shiny AI subscription, they need clarity. We sit down with Heather Terry, CEO and chief content architect of Curious AI, to unpack why so many small businesses feel overwhelmed after buying “all the tools” and still can’t point to real results. The heart of the problem is simple: when you start with platforms instead of priorities, you create noise, t
CJ Meager on How Proactive Legal Strategy Helps You Catch Risk Early
Send us Fan MailYou can make a smart growth move and still create a risk you never saw coming. That is the tension we dig into with attorney CJ Meager of Brennan Mana and Diamond, who works with companies as fractional chief legal counsel. When you are past the startup stage, the margin for error gets smaller, and the goal is not just growth. It is protecting what you have built while you keep sca
Julie Wheeler Explains Why Promoting Without Training Sets New Managers Up for Burnout
Send us Fan MailYou promote your top performer, give them a new title, and expect the team to level up. Instead, sales dip, conflict rises, and your once-reliable employee looks exhausted and unsure. That whiplash is more common than most leaders admit, and it usually has one root cause: we reward technical excellence with a management role, then provide little to no leadership training.Julie Whee
Alice Rhodes Shares How to Replace a Group Plan Without Leaving Your Team Behind
Send us Fan MailYour health insurance renewal hits, and suddenly the math doesn’t work: premiums climb faster than inflation, one big claim can blow up a small group plan, and specialty drug costs keep stacking the deck against predictability. We talk through why this trend is not a quick blip and why more business owners are getting cornered into hard choices that can even block raises. If you’ve
Stephanie Smith Talks About Your Best Opportunities Come From People You Trust
Send us Fan MailThe next big break in your career probably won’t come from a perfect strategy deck. It’ll come from a person who trusts you, remembers you, and is willing to make an introduction when the moment is right. That’s why we dig into relationship building as a real leadership skill, not a cringe networking chore. I’m joined by Stephanie Smith, Director of Engagement and Impact at Leaders
Julie Wheeler On The Hidden HR Problems That Show Up When Small Businesses Scale
Send us Fan MailYour business starts growing, and you think the hard part is sales, operations, and delivery. Then the real friction hits: the people side. The mood changes, long-time employees get uneasy, new hires shift the dynamics, and suddenly, “we’ve always done it this way” becomes the loudest voice in the room. We sit down with Julie Wheeler, HR business partner at Clarity HR, to unpack wh
Alice Rhodes Talks How Small Businesses Cut Health Insurance Costs with Self Funding
Send us Fan MailYour health insurance renewal shows up, and the numbers feel unreal. The cost jumps again, nobody can clearly explain why, and you are left trying to protect your team’s benefits while your budget gets squeezed. We sit down with Alice Rhodes, VP of Benefits at AUI, to unpack the real mechanics of self-funded health insurance for small and mid-sized employers and to explain why “sel
How Jim Barlett Broke The $3M Ceiling With Forward-Looking Finance
Send us Fan MailGrowth feels great until it starts to choke your cash and your calendar. We sit down with Jim Bartlett, Navy mission commander turned e-commerce founder and now Area President at Focus CFO, to unpack how owners stop firefighting and start leading with forward-looking finance. Jim’s path from scaling a sporting goods brand on early AdWords to exiting as Amazon rose gives him a rare
Sue Grabowski's Take On Why Your Nephew Should Not Run Your Ads
Send us Fan MailQuit a stable job, tell your boss you’re going home, then get asked if they can become your first client—how’s that for a plot twist? We sit down with communications leader Sue Grabowski to chart a three-decade journey from magazine keylining to AI-era strategy, and the common thread is relentless clarity. Sue shares how she built an agency that outlasted trends by shifting from pr
How Zhao Liu Went From Solo Hustle To Scalable Team
Send us Fan MailWhat if one smart hire could flip your business from constant scramble to controlled scale? That’s the spark behind our conversation with Zhao Liu, the operator-turned-founder of ZL Workforce, who transformed an eight-year solo grind into a data-driven, delegation-first machine after hiring a single virtual assistant.We walk through the pivotal moves: quitting corporate while runni
Marc Lee Shannon on How Resilience and Systems Transform a Creative Career
Send us Fan MailThe myth says a creative life runs on inspiration; the truth is that it runs on timing, resilience, and a reliable system. We sit down with guitarist and former VP of Sales Marc Lee Shannon to map the dirt roads that led from LA session work to corporate leadership and back to a purpose-driven creative practice. Along the way, Mark explains how he learned to read industry headwinds
Playing The Long Game: Alicia Jarboe on Values, Community, And Sustainable Growth
Send us Fan MailWhat if your best marketing isn’t marketing at all, but the way you show up when it costs you? That’s the heartbeat of our conversation with Alicia Jarboe, the Worcester-based realtor and nonprofit leader who proves that relationships, not transactions, build businesses that last.We dive into the practices that turn clients into community: thoughtful follow-up, handwritten cards, a
Building Unshakable and Intentional Leaders with Janet Kendall White
Send us Fan MailWhat if the difference between a resilient culture and a fragile one is a single intentional choice? We sit down with Janet Kendal White, author of Unshakable Leadership and founder of Berkshire Group, to unpack how real leadership moves beyond titles, clever slogans, and “crappy wall art.” From a jarring early career story to building a company that equips managers with practical
Small Starts, Strong Bonds: Why Mutually Beneficial Partnerships Win According to Chris Canova
Send us Fan MailCollaboration only works when both sides win—and when you can prove your value every single day. That’s the lens Chris Canova brings as he walks us through how Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates (JOG) scaled from a small team to 70+ staff across ten counties, serving youth, specialized populations, and now adults in manufacturing, business, and the growing polymer sector. We unpack the hard
Erika Hill on Positioning Self and Closing the Generational Gap
Send us Fan MailConfidence doesn’t show up on command; it grows after courage. That’s the heartbeat of our conversation with Erica Hill, the creator of Positioning Self—a coaching framework that turns soft skills into daily, practiced habits for interns, first-year hires, and emerging leaders. We dig into a two-sided model that pairs early-career professionals with mentors or supervisors who activ
Broker or Broken? Finding the Right Health Insurance Partner with Alice Rhodes
Send us Fan MailDo you know what your health insurance broker actually does? Most small business owners assume their broker simply shops for the cheapest rates, but that's just skimming the surface of what a true strategic benefits advisor should provide.Alice Rhodes from AUI breaks down this misunderstood role, revealing that for businesses with fewer than 50 employees, benefits aren't
Julie Wheeler Breaks Down What Company Culture Really Means
Send us Fan MailDo your employees dread Sunday nights because they have to return to your workplace on Monday morning? That's one of the clearest signs your company culture needs attention, according to HR expert Julie Wheeler.In this eye-opening conversation about workplace culture, Julie cuts through the superficial trappings that many businesses mistake for culture—ping pong tables, pizza
Simple Solutions for Complex Business Problems with Adrienne Wilkerson
Send us Fan Mail"There's always a solution. It might be over, might be under, might be around, or straight through." These words of wisdom from Adrienne Wilkerson, co-founder of Beacon Media + Marketing, perfectly capture the mindset needed to navigate what she calls "the messy middle" of entrepreneurship.From her beginnings as Alaska's first full-service digital mark
When to Hire HR? Julie Wheeler Shares a Better Option for Growing Businesses
Send us Fan MailReaching that 15-30 employee threshold brings a crucial decision for business owners: is it time to hire a dedicated HR person? Before taking that leap, Julie Wheeler of Clarity HR makes a compelling case for considering fractional HR services as a strategic alternative that could save your business money while providing superior expertise.When businesses cross this growth threshol
Alice Rhodes on Why Most Small Businesses Get Employee Benefits Wrong
Send us Fan MailThe difference between a struggling small business and a thriving one often comes down to how they approach employee benefits. Most business owners think they have benefits figured out—but as Alice Rhodes, Vice President of Employee Benefits at AUI reveals, they absolutely do not.Benefits shouldn't be treated as just another monthly expense. When employers make drastic changes
Why Digital Accessibility Matters for Everyone: Elizabeth Orley is Back Another Wake-up Call
Send us Fan MailAre you unwittingly turning away potential customers because of an inaccessible website? Digital marketing expert Elizabeth Orley shares her personal awakening to the importance of accessibility after breaking her arm and suddenly finding herself unable to use a computer mouse with her dominant hand. This eye-opening experience transformed her understanding of how digital spaces ca
HR Doesn't Always Say No: Breaking HR Stereotypes with Julie Wheeler
Send us Fan MailEver find yourself dreading those human resources responsibilities that come with running your business? You're not alone. Many small business owners view HR as a necessary evil – a department that exists to say "no" and create endless rules. Julie Wheeler of Clarity HR is on a mission to change that perception.In this enlightening conversation, Julie shares how she
How to Win the Talent War with Strategic Insurance Plans with Alice Rhodes
Send us Fan MailEver wonder why finding a good health insurance broker feels impossible, especially as a small business owner? Alice Rhodes from AUI pulls back the curtain on the often-mysterious world of employee benefits with refreshing candor and deep expertise from her 25-year career."I never just send stuff because their head's going to pop off," Alice explains, highlighting he
How Bill Snow Built Multiple Successful Businesses by Finding His White Space
Send us Fan MailBill Snow's entrepreneurial journey begins with a moment many of us can relate to—a family vacation derailed by car trouble. That frustrating experience sparked a revelation that transformed his career path and led to multiple successful businesses."When you're saying no to something, you're saying yes to something else," Bill shares, highlighting one of hi
Finding Purpose After Entrepreneurship: Gary Sirak Talks About Retirement Without Dying
Send us Fan MailEver wonder what happens when entrepreneurs who've poured their hearts into building businesses finally step away? Financial advisor Gary Sirak tackles this crucial question head-on, revealing why some business owners literally die shortly after retirement—and how to ensure you don't become that statistic.Gary shares the profound wisdom gained from decades helping busines
Why Culture Fit Matters More Than Money When Choosing Your Business Path with Terese McGroarty
Send us Fan MailFreedom of choice may be entrepreneurship's greatest gift. While corporate employees rarely select their colleagues, business owners—especially franchisees—can intentionally choose their culture and community. This powerful insight anchors our conversation with Terese McGroarty, whose entrepreneurial journey began at just 21 when she and her husband borrowed family funds to pu
Leadership Lessons from 10,000 Small Businesses with Erika Hill
Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you take a successful small business owner and give them the tools to think bigger? The transformation can be extraordinary.Most entrepreneurs reach a critical point where they've mastered the startup phase but feel stuck in day-to-day operations, unable to achieve the next level of growth. The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program at Tri-C addresses
Saving Squirrels and Building Bold Brands with Julie Gates
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how embracing quirks and a dash of humor can lead to entrepreneurial success? Julie Gates, a real estate investor and property manager from Savannah, Georgia, enlightens us with her fascinating journey. Julie's story is a testament to the power of standing out. Her willingness to try new things and knack for turning ordinary ideas into extraordinary ventures make
Challenging Conventional Finance with Fred Hubler
Send us Fan MailFred Hubler's journey from IT professional to pioneering financial advisor is nothing short of inspiring. On the anniversary of 9/11, Fred found himself unintentionally stepping into the world of finance, where he developed a contrarian mindset that thrives on challenging conventional investment strategies. We explore how Fred's transition from a traditional sales-driven
Empowering Youth Careers with Chris Canova
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets to successful career paths for young people as we chat with Chris Canova, the Executive Director of Jobs for Ohio Graduates (JOG). Learn how JOG's innovative programs empower youth aged 14 to 24 through structured work-based learning experiences and robust job coaching. Chris shares fascinating insights into JOG's collaboration with small businesses and
Elevating Small Business First Impressions with Sharon Spychola
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets of impactful marketing with insights from Sharon Spychola of Your Corporate Concierge, as she shares her journey of transforming small business impressions at events like trade shows, expos, and golf outings. Discover how brand ambassadors can elevate your brand better than you might believe, allowing you to focus on other critical business priorities. Sharon emp
Podcasting Success with Josh Troche
Send us Fan MailDiscover how embracing imperfection can lead to podcasting success with Josh Troche, a master of multimedia storytelling who turned an unexpected favor for a political figure into a thriving career. Josh shares his insights into the world of podcasting for small business owners, offering strategies to help you sidestep common pitfalls and focus on adding value to your audience. Lea
Mastering Sales Team Synergy with John Stephens
Send us Fan MailDiscover how to transform your sales strategy with insights from John Stevens, a veteran sales expert with over 30 years of experience. Ever wondered what sets apart successful sales teams from the rest? John shares his wisdom on maintaining authenticity, structuring teams with the right mix of hunters and farmers, and building robust infrastructures to support sales success. He pr
Transforming Company Culture and Business Growth with Michael Murray
Send us Fan MailEver wonder what it takes to create a business with staying power? Michael Murray, CEO of Textbook Painting shares his journey to business growth. Michael shares his remarkable journey from launching a painting business right after college to growing it into an painting powerhouse. Discover how simplifying tasks can transform leadership and learn how Textbook Painting elevates c
How to Give Gifts in Your Business with Deby Lexow
Send us Fan MailDiscover the art of meaningful gift-giving with Deby Lexow, the founder of LoCLE Box, as she shares her journey from crafting personal gift boxes to founding a business that champions Ohio's artisans and community values. Ever wondered what makes a corporate gift unforgettable? Our conversation uncovers the philosophy of thoughtful gifting and its ripple effect on relationship
Dianne Widowski on From Fortune 500 to Affordable Housing Entrepreneur
Send us Fan MailEver wondered how to transition from a high-powered corporate job to making a real difference in your community? In this episode, we sit down with Dianne Widowski of 4Bees, a former Nestle executive turned environmental advocate and affordable housing champion. Dianne takes us through her incredible journey, revealing how her passion for sustainability led her to become a beekeeper
Achieving Sustainability and Business Resilience with Laura Steinbrink
Send us Fan MailIf you've ever wondered how sustainability can serve as a powerful risk mitigation strategy for your business, join us as we chat with Laura Steinbrink, CEO of Emerald Built Environments, who transitioned from a 15-year nonprofit career to becoming a torchbearer in the sustainability industry! In this episode, you will discover how Laura's mission-driven passion and desir
Unlocking Franchising with Leslie Kuban: From Diverse Opportunities to Business Success
Send us Fan MailEver wondered why savvy professionals leave their corporate jobs to buy franchises? Join us as Leslie Kuban, a franchising expert, shares her wisdom on the dynamic world of franchising. Learn how leveraging proven business models and marketing strategies can significantly reduce the risks of starting a new business. Leslie also shares personal anecdotes from her family's exper
Crafting Videos and Community: Jenny's Small Business Journey with SHE Did It
Send us Fan MailDiscover how Jenny Young turned a significant setback into a thriving business venture in this inspiring episode featuring the founder of She Did It. Fired from her job due to gender bias, Jenny didn't let adversity hold her back. Instead, she used it as a springboard to launch her own videography company, prioritizing creative freedom and personal values over traditional corp
From Struggle to Success: Meredith Farrow's Journey in the CBD Industry
Send us Fan MailDiscover how Meredith Farrow, CEO of Clean Remedies, transformed her struggle with postpartum depression into a thriving business in the CBD industry. In our latest episode, Meredith opens up about her personal journey and the critical importance of USDA certified organic CBD products. Learn firsthand how organic farming practices can ensure the purity and safety of CBD offerings,
Cultivating Strong Banking Relationships for Small Business Success with Dana Walters
Send us Fan MailWhat does a successful relationship with your banker look like, and how can it transform your small business? We explore these pivotal questions with Dana Walters, a seasoned business development officer from Consumers National Bank. Dana's journey from managing a high-profile catering company to the structured world of commercial banking offers unique insights into the often-
Balancing Business and Working with your Spouse with Sammy Gross
Send us Fan MailExperience the unique dynamics of running a business with your spouse through the eyes of Sammy Gross, president of Therapedes. Sammy takes us on his journey from joining his wife's company to scaling it with a grand vision, sharing the highs and lows of balancing both a professional partnership and personal relationship. Learn the key strategies he employs to empower employee
Unlocking SEO Secrets and Balancing Business with Elizabeth Orley
Send us Fan MailWant to uncover the secrets of online business success? Join us for an enlightening discussion with Elizabeth Orley, the driving force behind Elizabeth Inc., as she demystifies the world of SEO for small businesses. Elizabeth exposes the pitfalls of relying on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, over which businesses have little control, and instead champions the po
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