Tag: small business

S3:E9 – From Allergies to Entrepreneurship: How Two Global Leaders Built Bodhi Salt Wellness Center

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date July 10, 2025

July 10, 2025

S3E9: From Allergies to Entrepreneurship: How Two Global Leaders Built Bodhi Salt Wellness Center

Featuring Anna Shulgina and Dasha Grankina of Bodhi Salt

Two international professionals—one a former Nestlé and Ferrero executive, the other a certified yoga trainer and team leader—cross paths in Louisville while searching for solutions to their children’s severe allergy issues. What followed was the founding of Bodhi Salt, a wellness center that fuses Eastern traditions with Western science.

On this episode of Small Business Success Talk, Anna Shulgina and Dasha Grankina share their journey from strangers to business partners and friends. They discuss building a 2,400-sq.ft. wellness oasis from the ground up, complete with kids’ programs, red light therapy, cold plunges, and ancient Ayurvedic techniques—all rooted in their own stories of healing.

If you’re a purpose-driven entrepreneur or wellness-curious parent, this conversation is filled with real talk, real solutions, and a little dog named Ozzy.

Ozzy’s Instagram: @ozzy.prince.Of.darkness

Bodhi Salt Center of Louisville: https://bodhisaltcenter.com

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Tags business owner, entrepreneur, holistic wellness, salt therapy, self care, self maintenance, small business, strategy, Success Stories, Women-Owned Business

Entertainment Episodes: Video Media Mindset

S3:E8 – From Dance Studios to Casting Calls: Kim Swanson on Starting Small and Dreaming Big

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date June 18, 2025

June 18, 2025

From Dance Studios to Casting Calls: Kim Swanson on Starting Small and Dreaming Big

Featuring Kim Swanson of Hanson Entertainment Industries, Inc.

In this powerhouse episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood sits down with the multi-talented Kim Swanson—a serial entrepreneur, casting director, dance educator, and inventor—whose story is packed with resilience, faith, and next-level resourcefulness.

Kim opens up about her humble beginnings in a church basement where she taught dance classes for eight kids—planting the seeds for what would become a thriving dance studio still in operation 35 years later. But that was just the beginning.

Through a mix of divine timing, fearless pivots, and a deep desire to help others, Kim unintentionally launched a second career as an Emmy Award-winning casting director. And if that wasn’t enough, a frustrating walk with her dog during the pandemic led to her inventing an eco-conscious poop bag—SHŪNŪ—that’s now patent-pending and making waves for how it gives back to veterans through a partnership with K9s For Warriors.

You’ll hear how Kim:

Turned her passion into a thriving, family-run dance studio
Built a casting business out of a casual favor—and landed local Emmys in the process
Bootstrapped her product invention from concept to real sales
Manifested $25,000 on The Price is Right to fund her dream (no, seriously!)
Keeps her mindset strong through seasons of uncertainty using prayer, planning, and positivity
Believes the biggest key to business is: solve a problem, help people, and keep showing up

If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like your idea is “too small to matter,” this episode will reignite your fire. Kim reminds us that success isn’t about the size of the start—it’s about the faith to start at all.

🎧 Listen in for real talk, real laughs, and the kind of inspiration that gets you moving again.

🔗 Resources mentioned:

SHŪNŪ Dog Bags – https://shunubags.com (insert actual link)
K9s For Warriors – https://k9sforwarriors.org

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Tags business owner, dance studio, entertainment industry, entrepreneur, patent, small business, strategy, Success Stories, Women-Owned Business

Culture Episodes: Video Law Leadership Marketing Mindset

S3:E7 – From Bracelets to Boardrooms: Building A Law Firm With Heart

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date May 28, 2025

May 28, 2025

From Bracelets to Boardrooms: Building a Law Firm with Heart

Featuring Libby Gray of Gray Ice Higdon Law Firm

What happens when a Deadhead entrepreneur becomes one of Louisville’s top attorneys and co-founds a powerhouse law firm in just one weekend?

Meet Libby Gray, co-founder and managing partner at Gray Ice Higdon. In this episode, host Christy Smallwood digs into Libby’s unconventional path from friendship bracelet slinger to federal court litigator, and how her firm is redefining law firm culture through inclusivity, intentional leadership, and business-savvy legal expertise.

Whether you’re navigating non-competes, scaling your business, or just trying to avoid costly legal pitfalls, Libby’s insights are pure gold. Discover how commercial law, intellectual property, and strategic contracts can make—or break—your business.

Learn how to protect your business, lead with integrity, and build something meaningful with your name on it.

Topics covered:
• Starting a law firm from scratch
• Legal essentials for entrepreneurs
• Managing business partnerships
• Preventing costly litigation
• Building inclusive, values-based culture
• Why every small biz needs an attorney (ASAP)

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Tags Attorney, business owner, entrepreneur, Law firm, small business, strategy, Success Stories, Women-Owned Business

Episodes: Video Food Leadership Marketing Mindset

S3:E6 Rebranding with Purpose: How Maeve Chocolate is Reinventing the Industry—One Bar at a Time

Post author By smallbusinesssmalltalk
Post date May 13, 2025

April 30, 2025

Rebranding with Purpose: How Maeve Chocolate is Reinventing the Industry—One Bar at a Time

Featuring Jean Thompson and Ellie Thompson of Maeve Chocolate

What happens when a former Microsoft exec buys a chocolate factory, reinvents the brand, and turns it into a movement? In this deliciously inspiring episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood sits down with the powerhouse mother-daughter duo behind Maeve Chocolate (formerly Seattle Chocolate).

Founder Jean Thompson shares how she went from investor to CEO, tackling imposter syndrome, supply chain challenges, and brand transformation—while daughter Ellie brings in a fresh Gen Z perspective, helping the company transition to a more vibrant, purpose-driven brand.

They spill the cocoa beans on:

Reinventing a legacy brand while staying true to your mission
Why the cocoa industry is more complex than wine
Building a female-led, impact-driven chocolate business
How storytelling, sustainability, and bold packaging win over conscious consumers
Preparing the next generation for leadership (and legacy)

If you love chocolate, entrepreneurship, or stories of brand transformation with heart—this one’s for you.

🌎 Learn more about Maeve Chocolate: https://maevechocolate.com
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Tags business owner, entrepreneur, Maeve Chocolate, small business, strategy, Success Stories, Women-Owned Business

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

Branding Business Coaching Culture Education Episodes: Video Event Industry Financial Government Human Resources Leadership Media Non-Profit SEO

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.

learn more!

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Branding Employees Episodes: Video Food Marketing Media Operations Project Management Web Sites

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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Branding Business Coaching Employees Episodes: Video Financial Leadership

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