Leadership LIVE @ 8:05! Podcast - Talking Small Business

What is Community Building? Is it different from Audience Building? is covered in this video, along with the following subjects:

- How do you build a community for your brand?

- How Community Building Drives Customer Loyalty

- Strategies for Community Growth and Sustainability

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Community building and audience building are two concepts that, while interconnected, serve different purposes. Community building focuses on creating a space where individuals feel connected, valued, and engaged with one another. Unlike audience building, which typically focuses on attracting passive followers or consumers, community building emphasizes engagement and participation among members. I'll be talking with Seth Resler about What is Community Building? Is it different from Audience Building?

Seth Resler teaches event producers and content creators how to maximize their revenue by leveraging the power of community building.

With deep expertise in developing and nurturing both digital and in-person spaces, Seth helps foster ongoing connections among community members. These communities not only strengthen relationships but also open new streams of revenue for event producers and content creators. He is the founder of Community Marketing Revolution, an initiative designed to teach brands how to harness the power of community building. Over the past 30 years, Seth has produced hundreds of events, ranging from industry conferences and music festivals to competitions and expos. He has worked with the organizers of industry-leading events, including CES, the NAB Show, and Podcast Movement, as well as top content creators such as The Bob & Tom Show, Audacy, and Cox Media Group.

In 2013, Seth was honored with a citation from the mayor of Providence for launching Taste Trekkers, the country’s first food tourism conference — a pioneering effort that showcased his commitment to creating innovative community experiences.

Message Right,or Not at All, is covered in this podcast, along with the following subjects:

- Publish or Perish: The New Business Mantra

- Credibility: Your Competitive Edge

- Differentiate or Die

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In today's fast-paced digital world, the way we communicate can make a significant difference in how our messages are received. The adage "Message Right, or Not at All" emphasizes the importance of crafting thoughtful and considerate communications. Whether it's an email to a colleague, a text to a friend, or a social media post, taking the time to convey your message clearly and positively can foster stronger relationships and reduce misunderstandings. I'll be talking with Barry Cohen about Message Right, or Not at All.

Barry has devoted over 40 years to marketing and media.He has helped numerous emerging brands compete more effectively with larger well entrenched companies. His current focus involves working with entrepreneurs and professionals to help them create and promote their intellectual property to become thought leaders in their industries.

Barry is the author/co-author of five books and numerous articles in business and trade publications and has spoken at conferences and trade shows.

Unlocking the POWER of AI on a Shoestring Budget is covered in this podcast, along with the following subjects:

- Strengthen Your Data Core: The Bedrock of Any Good Business

- Navigating Data Maturity: How to Map Your Organization's Growth Trajectory

- From Concept to Impact: Building a Data Program that Delivers from Day One

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Unlocking the power of AI doesn’t have to break the bank, and with a little creativity, you can harness its capabilities on a shoestring budget. Many free or low-cost AI tools are available that cater to various needs, from automating mundane tasks to enhancing customer interactions. By prioritizing your goals and being resourceful in your approach, you can effectively integrate AI into your projects while keeping your costs manageable

Collin Graves is the visionary leader and CEO of North Labs, a leading fractional cloud data analytics firm empowering growing companies with data-driven strategies. Under his leadership, Collin has propelled over 1,000 organizations towards transformative success. Before founding North Labs, he served with distinction in NATO Special Operations during his tenure with the US Air Force.

Business Success in Times of Uncertainty is covered in this video, along with the following:

- POWER Conference July 2025 Review

- POWER Conference July 2025 Highlights Reaction

- Small Continuation of the POWER Conference Theme

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Join me and a lineup of special guests for an insightful livestream as we unpack key lessons from the 2025 Small Business Pro POWER Conference, the premier event for entrepreneurs and business leaders aiming to thrive amid today’s challenges.

In this exclusive session, we’ll revisit conference highlights, break down actionable strategies for navigating uncertainty, and share powerful stories from top keynote speakers, panelists, and entrepreneurs. From securing financing to maximizing profitability, scaling your business, and building resilient networks, gain practical advice to help you succeed, regardless of the business climate.

Andrew Frazier, MBA, CFA, “The Masterpreneur™” founded the Small Business Pro University to help business owners Sell More, Maximize Profit, and Finance GROWTH faster and easier. He is an expert business advisor providing invaluable coaching, consulting, and training services, empowering entrepreneurs to have greater knowledge and enhanced skills, helping them Work ON their businesses and SCALE.

Over the past 15 years, he has worked 1-on-1 with 1,000+ business owners and taught tens of thousands of people about business. Mr. Frazier’s experience includes serving as a Navy Supply Corps Officer, operations manager, corporate executive, Chief Operating Officer, organizational leader, Board Member, adjunct professor, investor, and serial entrepreneur. His educational background includes graduating from MIT with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, earning an MBA from NYU, and achieving the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.

Doubling Your Close Rate, Doubles Your Revenue, and Multiplies Your Profit is covered in this video, along with the following subjects:

- Sales process optimization

- Sales Metrics and KPIs

- Revenue Growth Strategies

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Doubling your close rate is a game-changer when it comes to boosting your business's financial health. When you successfully convert more leads into paying customers, you not only boost your income but also enhance your overall business sustainability. By refining your sales techniques, enhancing customer engagement, and focusing on building strong relationships, you can achieve that coveted double close rate. I'll be talking with Doug C. Brown about Doubling Your Close Rate, Doubles Your Revenue, and Multiplies Your Profit.

Doug C. Brown is the founder of CEO Sales Strategies and a renowned Sales Revenue and Profit Growth Expert. Over his career, Doug has founded or built 35-plus businesses, collectively generating over $960 million in sales for himself and his clients. As the creator of a predictable, reliable, measurable, metrics-based model for sales revenue growth, he has helped businesses achieve remarkable outcomes, including raising close rates by 143% and boosting product sales by over 4,150%. Additionally, he is the creator of Vibitno, a SaaS platform that helps people stay in connection, recover lost relationships, and gain future sales and relationships through automated personalized, relevant, and meaningful follow-up.

Grow Faster and Maximize Profit by Solving the Capacity Conundrum is covered in this podcast, along with the following subjects:

- Strategic Operations Planning

- Operations Systems That Support Business Growth

- Operations Strategy Meets Business Coaching

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To grow faster and maximize profit, businesses must address the often-overlooked capacity conundrum. This involves not just understanding how much output you can produce but also recognizing the limitations of your resources. By analyzing your current operations, you can identify bottlenecks that may be hindering growth.

Investing in technology, streamlining processes, or outsourcing certain tasks can significantly enhance your capacity to meet demand without sacrificing quality. Moreover, regularly revisiting and adjusting your capacity strategy allows for greater flexibility in responding to market changes. Embracing this proactive approach not only ensures efficiency but also positions your business for sustainable growth and increased profitability, because who doesn't want to make more money while working smarter, not harder?

Scott Springer is an accomplished Executive Consultant providing strategic vision and leadership to revitalize underperforming organizations, enhance productivity, improve safety measures, and strengthen business operations to achieve long-term gains in performance, revenue, and profitability.

Currently, Scott is the President and Owner of Chelwood Consulting Group / Petformance where he successfully develops and executes end-to-end strategies to improve manufacturing, operations, logistics, eCommerce, engineering, maintenance, and human resource management systems for small to mid-sized companies. Leveraging his experience in the food and nutraceuticals industries, Scott created and launched Petformance freeze-dried nutritional meals and treats for canines as an additional revenue stream within Chelwood Consulting.

What Can You Do In This Moment? is covered in this video, along with the following subjects:

- Discover Your Unfair Advantage: What Others Miss

- The Multiplier Effect: One Change, Maximum Impact

- Where You Belong and How to Get There

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Small business owners often know what they need to do but struggle with where to start or what to prioritize first. This topic focuses on practical steps you can take right now to move your business forward, rather than long-term planning or theoretical strategies.

The conversation will address immediate actions for common business challenges, whether you're dealing with resource constraints, operational issues, or growth decisions. You'll learn about quick business assessments you can conduct today, accessible resources that are often overlooked, and small changes that can create a meaningful impact in your operations.

This is about making progress with what you currently have available and identifying the most important next step for your specific situation.

Natalie Madeira Cofield is President and CEO of the Association for Enterprise Opportunity (AEO), the leading national trade association for microbusinesses. As a former presidential appointee at the U.S. Small Business Administration, she helped deploy $1.2 trillion in funding and led the largest expansion of the Women's Business Center network in SBA history.

An award-winning entrepreneur recognized as one of the most powerful women in business by Entrepreneur Magazine, she has advised Fortune 500 CEOs and White House senior advisors. Her insights have been featured in major outlets including The New York Times, Forbes, and CNN. She holds degrees from Howard University and Harvard Business School.

An Entrepreneur's Journey: Getting Venture Financing for a Venture is covered in this podcast, along with the following subjects:

- The First Pitch: Lessons from Early Investor Conversations

- Finding the Right Investor, Not Just Any Investor

- How to Build Relationships with Investors Before You Need Them

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Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey often comes with the exhilarating yet daunting task of securing venture financing. For many entrepreneurs, this process can feel like navigating a complex maze, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming! Start by developing a solid business plan that outlines your vision, target market, and revenue model—this will not only help you clarify your ideas but also impress potential investors.

Networking is also key; attend industry events, join startup incubators, and connect with mentors who can guide you through the fundraising landscape. Don’t shy away from pitching your venture to multiple investors—feedback can be invaluable in refining your approach. Remember, every entrepreneur’s journey is unique and filled with learning opportunities; stay persistent and adaptable, and soon you might find that perfect match for your venture financing needs!

Calvin C. Reed, Jr. is a multifaceted professional with extensive experience in urban planning, publishing, cable television, and real estate development. He studied at Lincoln University and the University of Denver, beginning his career in public service as Director of Essex County Youth Commission and later as Deputy Mayor of East Orange, where he developed innovative community programs.

He transitioned to publishing as a Corporate Analyst at Doubleday Books, then co-founded Connection Communications Corporation, securing cable franchises across New Jersey and South Carolina. After selling the cable company in 1986, he moved into construction and real estate development, building major projects including the Brick Church Mall and Bishop Taylor Homes. He currently operates Platinum Financial Resources, focusing on property redevelopment in Baltimore, and is working with the New Africa Development Corporation on Newark's revitalization.

Leveraging Resources to Help Small Businesses Succeed and Thrive is covered in this video, along with the following subjects:

- How to market your business effectively with limited resources

- Building strong community connections and local partnerships

- Developing a resourceful and resilient entrepreneurial mindset

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Leveraging available resources is essential for small businesses aiming to succeed and thrive in today’s competitive landscape. By tapping into various tools, networks, and support systems, entrepreneurs can enhance their operations and unlock new growth opportunities. For instance, local chambers of commerce often provide valuable networking events, workshops, and mentorship programs that can connect small business owners with experienced professionals in their field.

Additionally, utilizing online platforms for marketing and eCommerce can significantly expand a business's reach without the need for a hefty budget. Moreover, accessing government grants or low-interest loans can offer the financial backing necessary to invest in inventory or technology upgrades. Ultimately, by strategically leveraging these diverse resources, small businesses can not only survive but also flourish in an ever-evolving marketplace.

Nakeicha Wilson is an entrepreneur passionate about supporting small business owners, having started her own journey to escape poverty. She understands firsthand the challenges entrepreneurs face and works to bridge the gap between available resources and business owners who need them.

Her experience includes successfully operating a cafe in Newark, NJ, and transforming a run-down building into a thriving laundromat with a five-person team. During COVID-19, she innovated by launching an app for contactless services, expanding her customer base beyond traditional laundromat demographics. Through her own mistakes and successes, she's committed to helping other entrepreneurs build wealth and create jobs in their communities.