SCORE Podcast: Where Small Business Matters

Once upon a time, giving a name to your company starting with the letter “A” was the ticket to the top of the search engine commonly known as the Yellow Pages.  That was so 1990’s! Co-hosts Tom Nixon, Armando Ojeda and Marc Trail are joined by Eric Seropyan, Founder and Owner of “This is My South Bay”, a digital marketing agency specializing in SEO and SEM. Listen to learn how this valuable technology can position your company for maximized exposure and protect your virtual real estate in this competitive online world.

Discussion points:

• From Jewelry to SEO / SEM
• Difference between SEO / SEM
• One, the other, or both?
• Is SEO / SEM a “Go It Alone” proposition?
• First steps
• Cautionary tales and potential pitfalls
• Question of the Day: Best SEO tools and plugins
  

References and Resources:

Is it LinkedIn, Facebook or Instagram? We could “Ask the Google,” but there is a better option! Tom, Amrando and Marc meet up with Dee Lockett, Founder of The Marketing Department Unlimited and HER Web Design Agency to dig into the digital marketing world and show our SCORE clients and friends how it can be applied toward their business success.

Discussion points:

• Word on the street - the business owners “Marketing Pain Points.”
• Don’t let this digital world confuse you
• It shouldn’t cost a fortune
• Dealing with negative results
• Options, options options
• Question of the day

References and Resources:

Every show needs the anniversary episode right?

Episode 21.18 marks the one-year anniversary of the podcast hosted by volunteers with the Southeast Michigan Chapter of SCORE. To celebrate, the co-hosts, Armando, Marc and Tom, each picked their top-3 favorite a-ha moments, lessons learned, or most inspiring stories and guests from their first year "on the air"...from small business owners, to aspiring start-ups...and from veteran volunteer mentors to those just joining our cause for the first time in 2020.

It's been a rather tumultuous year, but one that has also produced so many positive outcomes for our can-do business community. 

Listen in to hear a round robin discussion of select episodes as chosen by our co-hosts!

References and Resources:

Is the juice worth the squeeze? Co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail are joined by Beatrice Wolnerman of Bea’s Squeeze and Bea’s Detroit to discuss a unique marketing “gimmick” that turned into a growing beverage brand, shared workspace and merchandising company. Listen to learn her lessons, hear about the importance of mentorship, and incorporate some of Bea’s innovative thinking into your strategic planning and vision.

Discussion points:

• Why it took until adulthood to open a lemonade stand
  
• What makes Bea’s lemonade stand so special
  
• Serendipity of one business opportunity leading to another
  
• Implementing new business concepts in a rapidly changing environment
  
• Why entrepreneurs need to make lemonade out of lemons, regardless of industry
  
• Question of the Day: How, why and when to incorporate e-commerce into your business strategy
  

References and Resources:

“All in the Family Business!” Co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail are joined by Master SCORE Mentor David Broder and Angela Doa - COO of ORRI Corporation to discuss the issues surrounding the generational transition of a thriving family business and how SCORE mentorship can support this process.

Discussion points:

• From reluctance to a passionate career opportunity
• A successful company needs a mentor?
• Advice from a mentor that has been there, done that
• The value of a mentoring relationship thru the eyes of the “mentee”
• Question of the day
  

References and Resources:

Is the “New Normal” really new? Co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail are joined by Jeffrey Hollender and Certified Volunteer Mentor Richard Gibbs to discuss business sustainability concepts that are impacting businesses globally—both small and large, private and public.

Discussion points:

• Jeffrey’s career path and areas of focus
• Business realities as to sustainability
• Business sustainability has been around for a while
• Impact on the small business owner
• Benefits of sustainability on the small business owner
• Question of the day: Why do mentors mentor?
  

References and Resources:

What is the difference between entrepreneurship and “self-sufficiency,” in the world of business ownership? Tom, Armando and Marc are joined by Paco Beltran of The Entrepreneur's Source, to discuss how franchising can bridge the gap between “going it alone” and “being in business for yourself, but not by yourself.”

Discussion points:

• Paco’s personal journey from the corporate world to franchising
• Personal attributes to be successful as a franchisee
• Due Diligence is the secret to successfully navigating the franchise investment
• Making the franchise opportunity fit your lifestyle
• Your family is a part of this decision
• Why franchise when you can go it alone?
• Question of the day
  

References and Resources:

Tom, Armando and Marc are joined by April Halliburton, SCORE Mentor and Founder of ALL-4-HR & Business Solutions, to discuss issues and opportunities as employees return to the workplace

Discussion points:

• Issues impacting the return to work
• Post pandemic call for new skill sets
• Change the position but retrain the employee
• Attracting and retaining talent
• 5 generations in the workforce
• Optimism rules!
  

References and Resources:

As we proceed through spring, we look forward to re-opening of restaurants at full capacity. Marc and Tom are joined by Nick Ritts, CEO of Ritts Hospitality, to discuss the current state of the food service industry and how to prepare for success through the upcoming months.

Discussion points:

• Introduction of the upcoming Restaurant Revitalization Fund
• What does “full capacity” mean in the post pandemic environment?
• Making sure your menu, pricing and amenities are up-to-date
• Quality and service still matter — no “pandemic excuses”
• Staffing is key and a major issue
• You can be successful in this environment — watch the numbers hourly, not monthly
• Optimism rules!
  

References and Resources:

Tom, Armando and Marc are joined by Jim Pippers, Lead Economic Development Officer for the U.S. Small Business Administration, to discuss details of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RFF).

Discussion points:

• Introduction of the upcoming Restaurant Revitalization Fund
  
• Documentation for application success
  
• Focus is on the small business owner
  
• How much can the restaurant owner potentially receive?
  
• Spending restrictions and return of unused funds
  
• Where to apply for funding
  
• Optimism rules!
  

References and Resources:

Armando, Marc and Tom are joined by Certified Volunteer Mentor Dick Rappleye and fellow volunteer and mentor Val Moskalik, who serves as Recruiting and Onboarding Chair for the Southeast Michigan Chapter of SCORE to honor April as National Volunteers Month and to discuss why working and retired executives alike should consider giving back and paying it forward to the next generation of small business owner.

Discussion points:

• Reach and impact of the SCORE volunteer network
• Perspectives on what drives volunteerism with SCORE
• Whether you are a mentor, workshop presenter ot subject matter expert - there is a place for you
• What it takes to be successful as a SCORE volunteer
• Return on the volunteer investment

References and Resources:

You took the plunge. You started your business, worked hard and then...success, your business is growing! Did you pivot, diversify your product or service, or are you serving a new market? Chances are, it was one of the above...and if you haven’t yet, it’s time to learn how! Co-hosts Armando Ojeda and Tom Nixon are joined by Jennifer Kluge, President and CEO of MichBusiness, Best and Brightest Programs and Corp! magazine to discuss elements of successful growth from the start-up to the C Suite!

Discussion points:

• Jennifer's journey from the launch of Michigan Food and Beverage Association to her current business projects
• Differing perspectives from the position of the start-up entrepreneur and then the leader of a large and growing organization
• Best practices of growing and successful companies
• Business pivots generally and the pandemic pivot specifically
• Recruiting talent as our economy re-opens
  

References and Resources:

Making a business investment no longer has to be a people or profit decision, it can be a people and profit opportunity. Angela Barbash of Revalue joins the podcast to share her knowledge on values-based investing and the funding mechanisms that support it. Listen to learn about alternative funding and capital sources that aren’t a rich aunt and uncle nor a traditional bank!

While today's guest is a registered investment advisor, the comments shared should not be construed in any way to constitute investment advice. 

Discussion points:

• Angela’s journey from the traditional business world to a focus on values-driven investing
• Alternative sources of funding available to small business owners and entrepreneurs
• The upsides and realities of values-based investing
• Values-based investing and the Pandemic — are there particular opportunities?
  

References and Resources:

Sean Gray, Economic Development Specialist with the U.S. Small Business Administration meets up with co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail to discuss the Payment Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL). Discussion also explores positive developments within the SBA business community.

Discussion points:

• PPP and EIDL current program review
• Program changes and impact on small businesses
• Small business resilience during the pandemic
• How SBA Emerging Leaders and Goldman Sachs 10 Thousand Small Businesses is benefitting entrepreneurs
• Question of the day: Tax time!
  

References and Resources:

Armando Ojeda and Marc Trail of The SCORE Podcast team meet up with Doug Pettigrew of Electronic Brain Solutions to discuss the importance of “Good Data Hygiene,” providing cybersecurity protection for your small business. Yes, even a SMALL business!

Discussion points:

• Isn’t my business too small to have to worry about cybersecurity?
• Can’t I just pay the ransom or demands if I get hit?
• I haven’t been hit in (X number of years business has been open), do I really need to worry about it now?
• What are some practical and lower cost things I can do RIGHT now in my business to help protect it from a cyberattack?
• How can I just stop all cyberattacks?
• Is it really a big deal if an employee or myself clicks on an email?  Isn’t this getting a little blow out of proportion?
• Won’t cybersecurity insurance just cover everything?
• I backup, so I am all set… right?
• If I am in or move totally to the cloud, then I am safe, right? Think again!

References and Resources:

The SCORE Podcast team of Armando Ojeda and Marc Trail place fellow podcast member Tom Nixon—Chief Strategy Officer at Harrington Communications—in the guest chair to discuss the branding and marketing components of successful businesses.

Discussion points:

• Identifying the components and differences between marketing and branding
• Branding is more than logos, colors and graphics
• The emotional connection of effective branding
• The power of storytelling
• Positioning your company appropriately in the marketplace
• Question of the day: Is it about branding? No!
  

References and Resources:

Community stability requires a strong business presence to be viable. Don Jones, Associate Director of the New Economy Initiative, joins Tom Nixon and Marc Trail to discuss the 12-year journey of building business in Detroit and where we are headed, including NEI's "Neighborhood Business Initiative" and how small businesses can benefit.

Discussion points:

• Neighborhood organizations creating jobs and building a sense of place in local neighborhoods
  
• What is improving in Detroit and what opportunities exist for continued improvement
  
• Will the pandemic have a long term impact on Detroit's future
  
• Challenges to growth for small neighborhood businesses
  
• Social impact of revitalization and urban flight
  
• Bringing communities together via purposeful connectivity
  
• Question of the day
  

References and Resources:

In recognition of National Mentoring Month, Tricia Beck joins co-hosts Armando Ojeda and Tom Nixon to explore the importance of mentorship within the many critical moments of the entrepreneurial journey. Tricia hails from our Southern Arizona SCORE Chapter as both a mentor and accomplished author.

Discussion points:

• Defining the mentor profile and what it takes for success
  
• What motivated Tricia to become a mentor and author
  
• What to look for in finding a good mentor fit
  
• Responsibilities of the “mentee” in a successful relationship
  
• Can your mentor be younger than you?
  
• “Question of the Day” — listen to find out!
  
  

References and Resources:

Ray Moulden, owner of Moulden Agency LLC, joins co-hosts Armando Ojeda and Marc Trail to discuss the varied aspects of insurance and how it impacts your business. From traditional business insurance requirements to the newest considerations for cyber security and COVID, Ray provides valuable insight to help the entrepreneur navigate in troubled waters.

Discussion points:

• The traditional business risks that require proper insurance coverage
• Insurance is more than a cost to be controlled when you need its benefits
• Taking the time to develop the personal relationship with your agent
• Sel-inventory and planning for the new year
• Know what your assets are for proper coverage
• Using security systems effectively for potential savings
• Cybersecurity and insuring for your protection
  

References and Resources:

In this episode of The SCORE Podcast, co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail meet up with SCORE Certified Volunteer Mentor Richard Gibbs and his client Rebecca Aughton of Bra-Vo Intimates, as we discuss the importance of their professional relationship from the perspective of a well-established business and the current pandemic.

Discussion points:

• The reasons for a well-established business to reach out for mentoring services
• How Bra-Vo Intimates, a local apparel retailer, executed the "pandemic pivot"
• The inter-relationship between networking and mentoring organizations
• The mentoring relationship from the mentor/client perspectives
• Never let a crisis got to waste—the opportunity pivot and re-position
• Advice on mentoring from the seasoned entrepreneur to the start-up
• "Question of the Day" from listener Rubin Martinez
  

References and Resources:

Donna Hover, past chair of SCORE of Southeast Michigan and current principal of Leaders Laboratory joins co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail to discuss the attributes of effective leadership. Whether you are the CEO of a well established business, or are in the ideation stage, Donna discusses the important leadership elements necessary for your success.

Discussion points:

• How can you tell if an organization has strong leadership?
  
• Motivating teams and maintaining alignment with company values
  
• Donna’s impact on SCORE of Southeast Michigan and how leadership applies
  
• Is leadership inherent or can it be developed?
  
• Types of leadership scenarios and attributes required
  

References and Resources:

Paul Riser, Director of Detroit Urban Solutions for TechTown Detroit, joins co-hosts Tom Nixon and Marc Trail to discuss business incubators and accelerators, not only from the standpoint of the tech-based company, but also for traditional product and service companies that need to embrace this brave new world of digital platforms.

Discussion points:

• The growth of business incubators and accelerators as entrepreneurialism expands throughout our economy
• Similarities between the tech-based business and traditional businesses
• How traditional business needs to incorporate tech into the business model to be successful
• Obstacles that tech-based entrepreneurs face as they grow, and how TechTown helps them succeed
  

References and Resources:

What do you do when someone asks you, “So, what do you do?” Do you freeze up? Do you over-sell? Do you stumble? Do you tell a different story every time? What if there’s a high-stakes shark, banker or prospective client in the room? With so much at stake, it’s critical for business owners and entrepreneurs to get it right. And practice makes perfect. Marc Trail, volunteer with the Southeast Michigan chapter of SCORE, joins the show to talk through strategies for perfecting the art of the pitch.

Discussion points:

• What is SCORE’s Perfect Pitch Practice workshop, and how did it start?
  
• How does the program work, and what do you get out of it?
  
• Who qualifies for this program, and what do they need to do to prepare?
  
• What are the tangible and intangible elements of a successful pitch?
  
• What is Marc’s background, and how can he help you perfect your pitch?
  
• Plus, an important announcement about the podcast...
  

References and Resources:

Paul Jones is Executive Director of Wayne State University’s Goldman Sachs 10 Thousand Small Businesses Program. He joins Armando and Tom to talk about this unique program that helps guide small businesses toward greater success, as well as more generally discussing funding and capital strategies and opportunities for startups and local small businesses in southeast Michigan. Tune in to see if your small business qualifies for this important program. The deadline to apply is September 28th!

Discussion points:

• Paul’s background as an entrepreneur himself.
  
• The story behind Goldman Sach’s 10 Thousand Small Businesses program, and how to apply.
  
• What value do graduates report receiving after going through the program?
  
• What are some specific success stories of small businesses participating in the past?
  
• How SCORE and the Goldman Sachs program work together and share successes.
  
• Who qualifies for the program, and how/where do they apply?
  

References and Resources:

The pandemic and its economic fallout has, overnight, created tremendous challenges for entrepreneurs and small business owners, forcing (or inspiring!) many to pivot to new markets, new service models or new product offerings. Co-Owner of Detroit Cycling Studio, Nicole Nesbitt, joins hosts Armando Ojeda and Tom Nixon, along with her SCORE Certified Volunteer Mentor Angela Mitchell, to discuss how she and her husband were able to successfully pivot their dream business during a time of crisis.

Discussion points:

• How SCORE helped Detroit Cycling Studio prepare financials to secure a grant to fund their pivot and expansion.
  
• How Nicole and her co-entrepreneur husband quickly innovated to service an emerging demand in the market.
  
• Nicole’s advice for other business owners beset by sudden challenges and obstacles.
  
• Angela’s perspective as a volunteer mentor: What do we get out of it, and what is our reward?
  

References and Resources:

Co-hosts and SCORE volunteers Armando Ojeda and Tom Nixon are joined by Nancy Grose, Economic Development Specialist with the Michigan District Office of the SBA and our SCORE chapter liaison. Nancy provides her first-hand perspective and expertise on how small businesses in Southeast Michigan have survived—and even thrived—during the economic downturn, as well as the available resources small business owners should be tapping into in order to forge ahead.

Discussion points:

• How have business owners relied on the SBA to help guide them through the financial challenges caused by COVID-19?
  
• How has that shifted in recent months? Are we coming out of the proverbial woods?
  
• What are the new debt relief programs coming online available to small businesses in Michigan?
  
• What are the best places to start for entrepreneurs who are just now beginning their endeavors as a startup business owner?
  
• What about business owners looking to scale or pivot? For business owners 3-10 years into their businesses?
  
• A run-through of the myriad resources available to local small business owners, from funding and capital to marketing and networking—many at no cost!
  

References and Resources:

Co-hosts and SCORE volunteers Armando Ojeda and Tom Nixon welcome Master Mentor David Broner from the Southeast Michigan chapter of SCORE to the show. A mentor with more than 10 years experience guiding entrepreneurs along successful paths to small business ownership, David is a wealth of experience and knowledge, of which he shares some nuggets of wisdom in Episode 2.

Discussion points:

• What are the key challenges entrepreneurs need to be aware of before starting a business?
  
• What should “side-hustle” entrepreneurs consider before taking the risk into running their business full-time?
  
• What does a business plan consist of and why is it important to have a business plan?
  
• Why do so many entrepreneurs avoid writing a business plan, and how can they overcome their apprehensions?
  
• What are the various templates available to writers of business plans, from the Lean Business Canvas Model to the Startup Roadmap?
  
• How will a business plan help business owners in the wake of a global pandemic, from startups to established businesses pivoting?
  

References and Resources:

Co-hosts and SCORE volunteers Armando Ojeda and Tom Nixon kick off the debut episode of the SCORE podcast serving southeast Michigan small business owners and entrepreneurs by exploring the very beginning of the entrepreneurial journey — actually, before the journey even begins! They welcome guest Amy Powell, Digital Marketing Manager at Entrepreneurial Leap, who works with E-Leap founder and author of The Entrepreneurial Leap, Gino Wickman, to develop and distribute content from Entrepreneurial Leap to help entrepreneurs-in-the-making eliminate common roadblocks and increase their odds of success when starting a business.

Discussion points:

• What is “The Entrepreneurial Leap,” and why is it important for aspiring entrepreneurs?
  
• Why is it important that entrepreneurs-in-the-making find out if they have what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur before they get too far down a road?
  
• What are the six essential traits Gino Wickman has identified for successful entrepreneurs, and how did he arrive at those?
  
• How can someone who is thinking of taking the entrepreneurial leap find out if they possess the six essential traits?
  
• What happens if you fall below the baseline score in the assessment? Does that mean you should give up on your dream?
  
• How to get started: the website, the book, the assessment and YouTube Live event on August 26th
  

References and Resources: