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The Small Business School Podcast

Ready to leave the small business struggle behind? The “School for Small Business” podcast supports small business owners in scaling a business that is profitable, purposeful, and doesn’t leave you burnt out. No matter whether you run your business online or you own a brick-and-mortar, you can expect our world class experts to support you with mindset, tactics, and everything in between so you can have the business you dreamed of. Based on our lived experience, we know that small business CAN be easy and we are here to show you how.The “School for Small Business” is hosted by Staci Millard, a CPA by trade with over 15 years of experience seeing the behind the scenes of thousands of small businesses. After growing and selling her first 7 figure business, Staci has been on the ground running - mentoring small businesses and working to increase success rates. Staci strongly believes you don’t need to have gone to business school to be successful so you can expect nothing but simple, impactful advice. Tune in each Tuesday for a new 30 minute or less episode of nothing but valuable advice to help you grow your small business. We are so excited for you to be on this journey with us!

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The Small Business School Podcast

Should Entrepreneurs Opt Into EI for Maternity Leave? Let’s Break It Down!

October 29, 2025 • Staci Millard • Episode 347

Welcome back to Small Business School! Ever wondered if EI maternity leave is worth it as an entrepreneur? In this episode, I’m diving deep into what EI looks like for self-employed business owners; when it makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to make the best decision for your unique business and lifestyle.

Key topics covered:

The difference between traditional EI and the special benefits program for self-employed individuals
Why you need to opt in at least 12 months before taking leave, and why timing is everything
How much you actually pay in versus what you might get back (with real examples!)
The pros and cons: including when EI makes financial sense and when to skip it
Smart alternatives to EI like building your own maternity fund, paying dividends, or private insurance options

At the end of the day, it’s not just about if you can get EI, it’s about whether EI truly fits the business and life you’re building. Take the time to run the numbers and trust yourself to choose what works best for you.

Mentioned in this episode: Faire, the largest wholesale marketplace connecting over 120,000 brands and retailers. Staci shares how Faire helps shop owners source unique products, offers flexible 60-day payment terms, and gives brands global visibility without cold pitching—creating a true win-win for small business growth.

Retailers who are new to Faire can visit www.faire.com and use code SMBSCHOOL10 at checkout for 10% off their first order.

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

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Head over to my website https://www.stacimillard.com/ to grab your FREE copy of my Profit Playbook and receive 30 innovative ways you can add more profit to your business AND the first step towards implementing these ideas in your business!