Tag: kentucky

S3:E16 – Isolation: Reset or Self-Destruct?

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date November 18, 2025

November 18, 2025

S3E16: Isolation: Reset or Self-Destruct?

Featuring Christy Smallwood

In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood opens up about the fine line between healthy solitude and harmful isolation—especially for entrepreneurs navigating chaos, debt, and change.

Drawing from her own “cocooning” season, Christy shares how isolation can either transform you or trap you, and why intention and reentry are everything. She dives deep into:

Why business owners hide their struggles (especially financial ones)
The difference between cocooning for growth vs. isolating from pain
How to use solitude to recharge, realign, and reconnect
The physical, emotional, and spiritual effects of chronic isolation
How to build your support system, find accountability, and rejoin community

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Tags business coach, business owner, entrepreneur, kentucky, mindset, small business, strategy, Success Stories

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S3:E15 – Movements, Marketing & Midlife Mojo: The We Do Not Care Club Effect

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date October 15, 2025

October 15, 2025

S3E15: Movements, Marketing & Midlife Mojo: The We Do Not Care Club Effect

Featuring Christy Smallwood

In this episode of Christy’s Corner on Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood dives into the viral rise of The We Do Not Care Club, a movement that started with one woman’s raw message and spread across the internet like wildfire.

Christy explores what makes movements go viral — from clear, relatable messaging to emotional resonance — and applies those same principles to small business success. From quicksand marketing traps to MVP (Minimum Viable Product) mindset, she gets real about balance, burnout, and why “we do not care” might just be the rally cry small business owners need.

You’ll hear:

How the We Do Not Care Club went from frustration to cultural moment
Why seven steps to seven figures isn’t always what it seems
How to simplify, show up messy, and still make momentum
A sneak peek into Christy’s Being Super Method and how to tap your own superpower
How to start your own “movement” in business that actually matters

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Tags book club, business owner, cocktails, entrepreneur, kentucky, mixology, small business, strategy, Success Stories

Education Entertainment Episodes: Video Event Industry Hospitality Mindset Publishing

S3:E14 AI, Cybersecurity & Tech Made Simple for Small Business

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date September 19, 2025

September 19, 2025

S3E14: AI, Cybersecurity & Tech Made Simple for Small Business | Jeff Chandler of ZJAK Technologies

Featuring Jeff Chandler, Owner Z-JAK Technologies

Technology doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood sits down with repeat guest Jeff Chandler, owner of Z-JAK Technologies, to unpack the world of AI, cybersecurity, and small business tech solutions.

Jeff shares insights on protecting your business from cybercriminals, avoiding shiny-object syndrome with new tools, and keeping technology practical and effective for everyday operations. From AI-powered platforms to the basics of staying safe online, this conversation is packed with real-world tips for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to scale with confidence.

If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right tools, when to outsource, and how to keep things simple in a noisy tech world—this episode is for you!

Subscribe to the show so you never miss these powerful conversations with real small business owners doing extraordinary things.

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Tags book club, business owner, cocktails, entrepreneur, kentucky, mixology, small business, strategy, Success Stories

Education Entertainment Episodes: Video Event Industry Hospitality Mindset Publishing

S3:E13 Cocktails, Creativity & Confidence: Jennifer Brian on Make & Muddle’s New Book and Bold Flavors

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date September 3, 2025

September 3, 2025

S3E13: Cocktails, Creativity & Confidence: Jennifer Brian on Make & Muddle’s New Book and Bold Flavors

Featuring Jennifer Brian, Owner Make & Muddle

In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, Christy sits down with Jennifer Brian, owner of Make & Muddle, to talk about the evolution of her business, the launch of her long-awaited book The Classic Cocktail Revival, and the power of trusting yourself as an entrepreneur. Jennifer shares the origin story of Make & Muddle, new product launches like the smoked persimmon syrup and chamomile-inspired “Four Tea Tonic,” and a live demo of how to make the perfect Aperol Spritz. Beyond cocktails, this conversation dives deep into entrepreneurship, creativity, self-trust, and why aligning with your true people changes everything.

Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, you’ll walk away with both inspiration and practical wisdom.

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Cannabis/CBD Education Episodes: Video Government Law Medical

S3:E12 – Fighting for Hemp: Dee Dee Taylor on Kentucky Laws, Integrity, and 502 Hemp’s Future

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date August 21, 2025

August 21, 2025

S3E12: Fighting for Hemp: Dee Dee Taylor on Kentucky Laws, Integrity, and 502 Hemp’s Future

Featuring Dee Dee Taylor, Owner, 502 Hemp & 812 Hemp

Dee Dee Taylor, owner of 502 Hemp and President of the Kentucky Hemp Association, returns to Small Business Success Talk for an update on the challenges and victories in the hemp industry. From Kentucky legislation to federal battles, Dee Dee shares the inside story of lobbying, integrity in business, and why hemp products matter for both customers and communities. This candid conversation dives into entrepreneurship, politics, and perseverance in a shifting industry.

If you’ve ever wondered how small business owners fight back against powerful lobbyists—or how passion and integrity keep a business moving forward—this is the episode you need to hear.

Subscribe to the show so you never miss these powerful conversations with real small business owners doing extraordinary things.

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Tags business owner, cannabis, entrepreneur, government regulations, hemp, kentucky, small business, strategy, Success Stories, telscreen

Audio Production Culture Episodes: Video Leadership Marketing Media Mindset Production

S3:E5 – Why Every Business Needs To Capture Its Origin Story

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date April 30, 2025

April 30, 2025

Season 3: Ep 5 - Why Every Business Needs To Capture Its Origin Story

Featuring David Sermersheim of Audio Capture

What if your story was the one thing that could shape generations to come? In this heartwarming and powerful episode of Small Business Success Talk, Christy Smallwood sits down with David Sermersheim—corporate leader by day, founder of Celebrate Audio by passion—to uncover how storytelling is the most underutilized yet impactful tool in business today.

David shares how a personal voicemail at a wedding changed everything for him, leading to a calling to help families and businesses preserve their legacies through audio storytelling. From bringing corporate values to life to capturing once-in-a-lifetime wisdom from loved ones, this episode dives deep into how stories are more than memories—they’re the blueprint of success, connection, and legacy.

💡 Whether you’re a founder, team leader, or family business owner, this episode will move you—and might even make you cry (in a good way).

🔗 Learn more about Celebrate Audio: https://celebrateaudio.com/

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Tags Audio Capture, business owner, entrepreneur, kentucky, national speaker association, NSA, NSA KY, small business, speaker, strategy, Success Stories

Autism Books, Author Culture Education Episodes: Video Leadership Marketing Media Mindset Non-Profit Production Publishing

S3:E4 – Building A Creative Legacy

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date April 15, 2025

April 02, 2025

Season 3: Ep 4 - Building a Creative Legacy

Featuring Kathryn and Todd Ziegler of Iron Pirate Publishing

In this heartfelt and hilarious episode of Small Business Success Talk, Christy sits down with two of her favorite collaborators (and friends), Kathryn and Todd Ziegler—co-founders of Iron Pirate Publishing. From Broadway spotlights to a book born out of love for their daughter with autism, this duo blends creativity, resilience, and purpose into everything they touch.

Get ready for a deep dive into how Iron Pirate evolved from a single Kickstarter campaign into a full-blown publishing, production, and education company. They talk about making bold moves, learning to listen (even when it’s hard), and what true success feels like—peace, purpose, and meaningful connection.

You’ll laugh, you’ll tear up, and you’ll walk away inspired to finish that “thing” on your heart. Whether you’re a fellow creative, an entrepreneur, or somewhere in between—this one’s for you.

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Kathryn Zeigler

Co-Founder

Christy Smallwood

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Guest References

TIFFANY EPIPHANY BY KATHRYN ZEIGLER

Meet Tiffany Epiphany, our first friend in The Spectrum Series™! The series features characters who celebrate their gifts, challenges, and accomplishments as children with autism. Tiffany is very lucky because she gets to see the world in a unique way. Through her adventures Tiffany shows her family and friends just how big and beautiful her world truly is.

You can meet Tiffany’s friend Solomon Sparks NOW! The Spectrum Series™ are books full of love with characters that celebrate the gifts, challenges, and achievements of children with autism.

Meta, Instagram, TikTok: @thespectrumseriesbooks

Developed and written by: Kathryn Rae Zeigler

Illustrated by: Mimi Beane Zeigler

Edited by: Todd Zeigler

Published by: Iron Pirate Publishing

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Tags book, book club, business owner, DEI, entrepreneur, finance, government, inclusion, kentucky, LGBTQ+, national speaker association, NSA, NSA KY, politics, race, racism, small business, speaker, strategy, women

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Season 3: Ep 3 Jess Pettitt

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date April 2, 2025

April 02, 2025

Season 3: Episode 3 with Jess Pettitt

Jess Pettitt joins Christy Smallwood on Small Business Success Talk to dive into the realities of running a speaking business, balancing purpose with profit, and navigating tough conversations. With her signature humor and deep insights, Jess shares how small business owners can create lasting change, build authentic workplace cultures, and align their values with real actions. They discuss the power of asking better questions, taking control of urgency, and staying true to your mission. Jess also talks about her new book, Almost Doing Good, and the unexpected viral moment that put her in the spotlight. This episode is packed with practical strategies and thought-provoking discussions to help entrepreneurs lead with impact and authenticity.

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Guest References

ALMOST DOING GOOD BY JESSICA PETTITT

What if almost was the key to lasting change? In Almost Doing Good, Jess Pettitt brings her signature humor and no-nonsense approach to tackling the toughest workplace challenges. This isn’t your typical crisis-management guide—it’s a call to action for leaders ready to embrace disruption, rethink good intentions, and create real impact. With practical strategies and eye-opening case studies, Jess lays out a clear framework to prepare, recognize, and respond to obstacles before they become disasters. Ready to make progress, even when the path isn’t clear? Start with almost.

PROJECT 2025 DECODED

Project 2025 is a bold roadmap created by the Heritage Foundation, aiming to reshape government policy and priorities. But what does it really mean for our democracy, businesses, and daily lives? Jess Pettitt unpacks the contradictions, hidden agendas, and the long-game strategy behind this initiative. With her signature wit and sharp analysis, she highlights both the alarming risks and unexpected insights found in its 900+ pages. Through thoughtful discussion and real-world implications, Jess helps us move beyond fear and reaction into informed action. Dive into the conversation and stay engaged—because understanding is the first step toward change.

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Season 3: Ep 2 – Amy Torres

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date March 26, 2025

March 26, 2025

Season 3: Episode 2 with Amy Torres

AI, Marketing, and Business Growth with Amy Torres

In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, Christy sits down with marketing expert and entrepreneur Amy Torres for a deep dive into AI, branding, and the evolving landscape of business growth. Amy, the powerhouse behind Director of Marketing Inc., shares how AI tools are revolutionizing decision-making, streamlining cash flow management, and creating new opportunities for small business owners.

They also discuss:

The impact of AI on marketing and business strategy
How to integrate AI without losing the human touch
Personal branding and the power of consistency
The importance of short-form video and digital storytelling
Building a business that gives you the freedom to do what you love

Plus, Amy and Christy share their experiences navigating business pivots, rebranding, and the power of showing up authentically. If you’re a small business owner looking for practical insights, this episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and actionable strategies.

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Amy Torres

Leads Director of Marketing inc.

Christy Smallwood

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Guest References

Director of Marketing Inc Website

Director of Marketing Inc helps businesses enhance their brand presence and reach their target audience with expert marketing strategies. From Google Ads and website optimization to social media management, they provide the tools and support needed to elevate your marketing efforts and drive success.

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Season 3: Ep. 1

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date March 19, 2025

March 19, 2025

Season 3: Episode 1

Welcome Back to Small Business Success Talk!

After a short hiatus, Christy Smallwood returns with fresh insights for 2025! She shares the highs and lows of the past year—from major business shifts to personal challenges—and how she’s rebuilding with purpose.

In This Episode:
✔ Why the podcast took a break
✔ Lessons from unexpected setbacks
✔ Merging multiple businesses into one powerful brand
✔ Setting boundaries to create space for strategy
✔ How a phased approach fuels growth
✔ The content strategy keeping Christy top of mind

If you’re an entrepreneur navigating change, this episode is packed with real talk and practical strategies to help you move forward with confidence!

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References

Christy Smallwood's Website

As mentioned in the episode, Christy Smallwood consolidated multiple businesses into a single, powerful brand. Although unifying different identities can be a challenge this transformation enhances efficiency, messaging, and market impact.

christysmallwood.com

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