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In this heart-to-heart episode, financial strategist Tremaine Wills of Mind Over Money joins Michelle to unpack the messy, magical world of small business finances.

Tremaine shares her FREE Indeed framework and gives a candid look at how pricing too low almost derailed her success. We talk about:

• The lies we believe about money (and how to unlearn them)
• The secret to charging what you're really worth
• Why building wealth isn’t selfish—and why your goals don’t have to be "for someone else"
• Pricing strategy for service-based businesses (hint: aim for 70% margins!)
• How your spending already reveals your true values
• Aligning your vision, money, and mindset for next-level growth

✨ LINKS & RESOURCES:
 Website: https://mindovermoney.net
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mindovermoneycoach

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She’s a coach, a marketer, and a relentless champion for her community. Meet Tora Carter, who’s leading the charge to restore one of Lexington’s most historic buildings—the Robert H. Williams Cultural Center.

🎙️ In this episode:

• The extraordinary story of 15+ Black women who founded an orphanage in 1892
• How Tora blends roles at Guide Realty, Transy Athletics & the Cultural Center
• Creative ideas to serve Lexington’s small businesses
• Why the attic space will be your new fave event venue
• And yes, Raquel Carter, Tora's leader at Guide Realty is running for mayor 🙌

💥 Want to help? Follow the Cultural Center on Facebook, DM to get on the mailing list, and stay tuned for clean-up days and the September Homecoming event!

🔗 Resources:

• Cultural Center Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhwcclex
• Compass Center: https://www.guide-realty.com/compass-center/ 
• Guide Realty: https://www.guide-realty.com/
• Raquel’s campaign page: https://www.raquelforlexingtonmayor.com/
• Bricks of Grace by William R. May - DM the Center for more information
• A Will to Be Free by Dr. Loretta Flynn Byer – DM the Center to purchase

🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2ZvC2mYQxK8sHPNRvm5zNT?si=44601c1bdaa54e89
🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/small-business-bestie/id1733760829

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Kelli Gabat, owner of Wildfire Yoga, shares her eight-year journey from corporate worker struggling with anxiety to successful studio owner, teacher trainer, and wellness entrepreneur who recently expanded her business.

• Started yoga to help with anxiety and depression while working corporate jobs for over a decade
• Beginning with an 800 square foot subleased space before expanding multiple times
• Navigated COVID by immediately shifting to virtual without closing, while also processing personal grief
• Recently opened Wildfire Wellness with infrared saunas, cold plunges, and red light therapy
• Created a true community space where members feel comfortable making it their own
• Emphasizes starting small and being specific about what you offer rather than diversifying too quickly
• Believes in the power of mindfulness to create mental space for better business decisions
• Suggests beginning each day with gratitude as a "game changer" for overall mindset
• Recommends focusing on breath awareness when feeling stressed or overwhelmed

Visit Wildfire Yoga or Wildfire Wellness in Lexington's Warehouse Block. New students can try an intro offer of $59 for one month unlimited yoga. Book classes through MindBody under "classes" for yoga and "appointments" for wellness services.

Connect with Wildfire Yoga and Wildfire Wellness
Wildfire Yoga

Website: https://wildfireyogaky.com/
IG https://www.instagram.com/yogawildfire/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogawildfire

Wildfire Wellness

Webssite: https://wildfirewellnesslex.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/wild_firewellness/

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Michelle shares the process of conducting a mini CEO retreat, offering a framework for small business owners to reset their vision, values, and goals to realign their business with their deepest aspirations.

• Taking intentional time to pause and reflect on what's working and what's not in both business and personal life
• Creating a values-based decision-making framework that takes the guesswork out of business choices
• Using the "BESTIE" values acronym: Bravery, Empathy, Simplicity, Trust, Integrity, and Energy
• Setting grace-filled goals rather than guilt-based ones driven by comparison or "shoulds"
• Balancing minimum goals (consistency-focused) with stretch goals (possibility-focused)
• Developing a clear 5-year vision, 3-year targets, and 1-year goals that align with your values
• Recognizing the different seasons of business: building, resting, pivoting, and growing
• Introducing the Bestie Boardrooms - weekly mastermind groups for accountability and support

If you fully trusted yourself and your business, what's the next bold step you would take? Share your answer in our Facebook group or send a DM on social media, and join us in July for the launch of Bestie Boardrooms!

Bestie Boardroom Applications: https://www.smallbusinessbestie.org/boardroom-application

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Mickaylyn Conrad shares her vision for Mick's Pot Spot, an accessible and inclusive plant shop designed to be a welcoming space for people with disabilities and their caregivers. Through her personal experience as a special needs mom and her work with the nonprofit A Different World, Mickaylyn recognized the need for spaces where families with disabilities can simply exist without judgment.

• Inspired by her own journey as a mom to a child with level three autism and cerebral palsy
• Creating a plant shop that removes barriers for disabled people and their caregivers
• Working with an autistic architectural designer to ensure the space is truly accessible
• Will offer assistive technology and adaptive equipment rarely found in brick-and-mortar retail
• Plans to support disabled artists and creators by providing affordable vendor opportunities
• Designing a safe, comfortable place where caregivers can work while children can be themselves
• Community has rallied around the concept with volunteers offering expertise and support
• Fundraising through GoFundMe, t-shirt sales, and community involvement

If you'd like to support Mick's Pot Shop, 

visit the Facebook page, 

share the project with friends, 

or donate through the GoFundMe

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Have you ever wondered what happens when business partners who are married decide to separate? Or how successful entrepreneurs actually manage the chaos behind their seemingly perfect Instagram feeds? This raw and honest solo episode pulls back the curtain on real entrepreneurial life.

Michelle Smock delivers a refreshingly transparent update on major transitions happening in both her personal and professional worlds. She shares the thoughtful solution she and her husband Neal developed for their accounting firm after their separation—a practical example of how business relationships can evolve separately from personal ones when both parties prioritize client care. For entrepreneurs in similar situations, this conversation provides valuable insight into navigating complex transitions with grace.

The episode also announces an exciting merger between Small Business Besties and Women's Entrepreneurs Lex, a seven-year-old networking group for female business owners in the Lexington area. This expansion means both morning and evening networking opportunities for entrepreneurs seeking community support. Michelle details the schedule—second Monday mornings and fourth Wednesday evenings—creating multiple touchpoints for women who crave real connection in their entrepreneurial journey.

Perhaps most valuable is Michelle's candid discussion about managing overwhelm while juggling three businesses and family responsibilities. She introduces InMotion, an AI-assisted scheduling tool that has transformed her ability to prioritize effectively, and shares her ongoing struggle with delegation—particularly her decision to outsource social media management after recognizing it as a consistent energy drain. This vulnerability around perfectionism touches on a challenge many entrepreneurs face but rarely discuss publicly.

Subscribe to Small Business Besties for regular conversations that normalize the messy reality of entrepreneurship. Join our Facebook community, share episodes that resonate with you, and consider leaving a review to help other business owners discover this supportive network of like-minded professionals.

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Diana Keating shares her journey as both co-owner of Close to Perfection flower shop and a media executive at WKYT, demonstrating how to successfully balance creative side businesses with full-time careers. Through her partnership with childhood acquaintance Erin Graf, Diana reveals how complementary skills and clear communication create business harmony.

• Originally from Illinois, Diana reconnected with high school acquaintance Aaron Graff in Lexington, leading to their floral business partnership
• Close to Perfection remains intentionally a side business, focusing on creating beautiful arrangements while maintaining work-life balance
• Diana handles accounting while Erin leads flower selection, creating a "yin and yang" partnership dynamic
• At WKYT, Diana helps businesses with comprehensive marketing strategies beyond traditional TV advertising
• As one of the largest digital agencies in the country, WKYT offers SEO, paid search, targeted display ads, and streaming TV advertising
• Diana builds client trust through providing data, industry insights and maintaining genuine interest in their businesses over the typical 90-day buying cycle
• Ladies Leads Lex, where Diana serves as vice president, welcomes female entrepreneurs to their visitor day on the 15th at Sullivan University
• The women's networking group particularly needs members in trades, landscaping, med spa, and medical professional categories

Follow Diana and all of her ventures here:
Media Executive at WKYT
Diana.keating@wkyt.com

Close 2 Perfection - Your local florist
close2perfectionlex.com
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566348394746
IG: https://www.instagram.com/close2perfectionky/

Follow Diana
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-keating/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/diana.nowakowska

Ladies Leads Lex
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067416445699
https://www.ladiesleadslex.com/

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Executive coach Katie Neal shares insights on confident communication for women leaders and the importance of understanding your core values to navigate career and life transitions.

• Transitioning from PR and communications to executive coaching after 20+ years in the field
• Creating "What The 40s" (WTF) - a small group coaching program for women navigating mid-life challenges
• Understanding that core values aren't aspirational but what truly drives us at our core
• Acknowledging that values like "family" or "kindness" may not be our core values despite their importance
• Recognizing the double standard where assertive women are labeled negatively while men are praised
• Moving beyond the ineffective "compliment sandwich" to provide clear, direct feedback
• Eliminating diminishing language like "just" and "I think" from professional communication
• Building relationships and networking as foundational skills for business success
• Being the woman who builds up other women rather than tearing them down

Check out Katie's Website here:

https://www.katienealconsulting.com

Follow along with Katie
LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieneal/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katiecollinsneal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katienealcoaching/

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
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Stephanie Greene, founder of HealthBridge Consulting, shares her journey from 25 years in healthcare leadership to entrepreneurship after hitting burnout and receiving a life-changing ADHD diagnosis at age 49.

• Reaching a breaking point at age 50 when comparing her life to her mother's cancer diagnosis at the same age
• Realizing her leadership position as Chief Operating Officer wasn't bringing fulfillment despite achieving career goals
• Late-life ADHD diagnosis providing context for lifelong struggles and workplace challenges
• The problem with traditional burnout advice focusing on self-care activities rather than addressing root causes
• Why leadership development fails when it only focuses on performance metrics rather than human connection
• The importance of creating psychological safety in teams where vulnerability is rewarded
• How hierarchical power dynamics affect communication even in small business settings
• Practical techniques for encouraging open dialogue and honest feedback in teams
• The unique challenges of leading small, tight-knit teams while maintaining appropriate boundaries

If you're experiencing constant overwhelm, remember it's not normal, and there is a way out. Organizations that aren't investing in leadership development should start now—it's where success truly lies.

Follow Stephanie & HealthBridge Consulting:

HealthBridge Consulting's Facebook 

Stephanie's Linkedin

HealthBridge Consulting's Linkedin

HealthBridge Consulting's Website

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Terri Paige shares her journey from corporate accountant to healthcare innovator as co-founder of Medical Transformation Center (MTC), a practice focused on cellular medicine and finding root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms. After experiencing her own health crisis, Terri's quest to understand gut health, hormonal balance, and cellular function transformed not only her wellbeing but led to creating a revolutionary medical practice with her physician husband.

• Balancing 43 years of marriage, raising eight children, and running businesses together for 33 years
• Transitioning from traditional primary care to functional medicine when conventional approaches failed to address Terri's multiple chronic conditions
• Creating MTC to help patients optimize cellular efficiency for better immune function, metabolism, and microbiome health
• Navigating business growth challenges while implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) for better organizational structure
• Practical advice on improving health by eliminating artificial sweeteners, preservatives, and processed foods that damage gut health

Follow Terri & Medical Transformation Center:

Terri's Facebook

Medical Transformation Center's Facebook

Terri's Instagram

Medical Transformation Center's Instagram

Terri's Linkedin

Medical Transformation Center's Linkedin

Medical Transformation Center's Website

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Graphic designer Lizzy Wolfe shares practical strategies for creating professional branding on a small business budget, emphasizing the importance of consistency and thoughtful customization.

• Come to designers with your mission statement and brand strategy already prepared to reduce costs
• Balance your personal brand with your business brand, especially important as your company grows
• Customize Canva templates by changing colors and fonts to match your brand for a cohesive look
• Create a brand kit in Canva Pro to store your logos, colors, fonts, and custom templates
• Consider Squarespace or Wix for small business websites instead of WordPress or Canva
• Consistency across all platforms is the key marker of professional branding
• Invest marketing dollars in foundational brand elements, email marketing, and social ads with clear calls to action
• Marketing budgets can include time investment through consistent organic content creation

Follow Lizzy and Big Bad Creative:

Big Bad Wolfe Creative's Facebook

Big Bad Wolfe Creative's Instagram

Big Bad Wolfe Creative's Linkedin

Lizzy's Linkedin

Big Bad Wolfe Creative's Website

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Anna Shulgina transforms a wellness gap in Louisville into Bodhi Salt Center, a mind-body balance center where families experience holistic health solutions together without compromising relaxation for either parents or children. Her journey from multinational corporate executive to wellness entrepreneur demonstrates how strategic business principles combine with genuine care for human wellbeing to create innovative service models.

• Globalist background with fluency in multiple languages and leadership positions at Nestlé and Ferrero across five countries
• Developed innovative category strategies that "make the pie bigger" rather than competing for existing market share
• Created separate salt therapy spaces for kids (play-friendly) and adults (relaxation-focused) after experiencing Louisville's allergy season
• Offers Ayurvedic oil treatments providing deep relaxation "equivalent to nine hours of uninterrupted sleep"
• Incorporates yoga in salt rooms with simultaneous story time for children
• Steam barrels complement treatments with herbal infusions being introduced
• Implemented comprehensive business planning including brand book, phased growth strategy, and potential franchise model
• Partnership approach balances strategic business development with exceptional customer experience
• Emphasizes importance of partnership alignment on long-term vision while leveraging different strengths
• Prioritizes mindfulness in both business strategy and customer wellness journey

Take care of yourself - there's nobody else who would take care of your health. Do it in a wise way with means that nature has provided and that have proven effective over years. Be happy.

Follow Anna at:

https://www.facebook.com/anna.shulgina.357

Follow Bodhi Salt at: 

https://www.bodhisaltcenter.com/

https://www.facebook.com/bodhisaltcenter

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Dasha Grankina's journey from Soviet-born philosophy professor to Louisville wellness entrepreneur reveals the fascinating intersection of Eastern European health traditions and American innovation. With a background managing schools and businesses in Russia, Dasha brings scientific rigor and practical experience to Bodhi Salt, the wellness center she co-owns with Anna Shulgina, that's challenging how Kentuckians think about respiratory health, allergy management, and overall wellbeing.

"Salt is not that expensive, right? You cannot claim the right on sodium chloride," Dasha explains, highlighting why pharmaceutical companies rarely promote salt therapy despite its effectiveness. At Bodhi Salt, clients experience how salt particles work as a "cleaning detergent" for airways, helping those suffering from Ohio Valley allergies breathe easier without medication side effects.

Beyond their signature salt rooms, Bodhi Salt offers uniquely tailored wellness experiences including steam barrels where clients sit with their heads outside while their bodies detoxify, red light therapy that accelerates healing and promotes collagen production, and Shirodhara oil treatments that leave clients feeling "like you had a nine-hour uninterrupted sleep just in one hour." Each service is backed by scientific research while still honoring traditional wellness practices.

What makes Bodhi Salt truly special is its personalized approach. Whether you're an athlete seeking faster recovery, a parent helping a child with allergies, or someone battling skin conditions, Anna and Dasha's team creates customized experiences using combinations of salt therapy, aromatherapy, breathing techniques, and other modalities. They even offer "dog therapy" courtesy of Ozzy, their French bulldog receptionist who sometimes naps with clients during salt sessions.

Experience the perfect blend of science and wellness at Bodhi Salt, where Eastern European traditions meet modern health science in a luxurious, results-driven atmosphere. Your lungs (and skin, and stress levels) will thank you.

More information about Bodhi Salt here:

Website 

Facebook

Instagram

Connect With Dasha:

LinkedIn

Facebook

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A rising star in tech entrepreneurship joins the Small Business Besties podcast today - and he happens to be the host's son! Fifteen-year-old Azra shares his remarkable journey as the youngest participant ever accepted into the Von Allmen Center for Entrepreneurism at the University of Kentucky's Gatton Business School.

This ambitious high school student has already developed "Deductly," innovative software that solves a critical problem for businesses across industries. His solution automates paycheck deduction calculations to ensure companies don't inadvertently violate the complex web of federal, state, and county minimum wage laws when making deductions from employee paychecks. What began as an alternative to days of manual calculations for a nationwide corporation has evolved into a promising software venture.

Beyond this single solution, Azra reveals his vision for an AI-enhanced web development firm that could revolutionize accessibility to custom websites. By strategically incorporating artificial intelligence into the development process, he aims to slash typical project costs from $20,000 to $5,000, making professional web development attainable for small businesses with limited budgets. "I want to make web development something everybody can have," he explains with genuine passion.

The episode explores various entrepreneurial resources available to young innovators, including the Governor's School for Entrepreneurship, Awesome Inc's programs, and startup competitions. Azra also discusses his experience developing the Small Business Bestie Toolbox, which helps guide entrepreneurs from idea to launch with business tracking and registration tools.

Are you struggling with time-consuming manual processes in your business? Connect with Azra on LinkedIn to explore how custom software solutions might streamline your operations and solve your unique business challenges. Share this episode with the young entrepreneurs in your life who might be inspired by this tech prodigy's journey!

Check out Azra's Governor's School of Entrepreneurism application video here:  https://youtu.be/RORkJW_-w2o?feature=shared

Follow Azra on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/azra-smock/

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Selling your business might be the furthest thing from your mind right now, but the steps that make a business sellable are exactly what create profitability and freedom today.

Leslie Hassler, founder of Your Biz Rules and business consultant with 17+ years of entrepreneurial experience, joins the show to shatter common misconceptions about business valuation. She explains why emotional attachment to your "business baby" can blind you to how buyers actually evaluate worth.

Financial statements tell your business story to potential buyers, and Leslie reveals the crucial metrics that determine your multiplier. "Taxes are a privilege of profit," she explains, challenging the common practice of minimizing profits to reduce tax liability. This short-term thinking dramatically reduces selling value, as businesses need to demonstrate substantial profit for at least three years to maximize valuation.

Beyond finances, we explore the concept of concentration risk – both from having too few clients and from the business being too dependent on the owner. Leslie provides practical steps for working yourself out of daily operations, starting with eliminating soul-sucking tasks and bottlenecks. This transition requires an identity shift that many entrepreneurs struggle with, as your value moves from doing the work to ensuring work gets done well.

Leslie also distinguishes between growth (which requires investment) and scalability (which generates profits), explaining how these concepts dance together throughout a business lifecycle. She shares powerful documentation strategies that simultaneously increase business value while making your daily operations more efficient.

Whether selling is on your horizon or not, implementing these principles creates a more profitable, enjoyable business today while building value for tomorrow. Don't miss Leslie's generous offer of a free 42-point "Ready to Sell" self-evaluation tool at yourbizrules.com/sbb.

Connect with Leslie:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliehassler/

Check out Leslie's books:

First This Then That

Coming soon! - Scaling Rich

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What happens when a business interview transforms into a soul-nourishing conversation about life's most challenging transitions? Michelle Smock sits down with Davonna Saier of Davonna INClusive  for what quickly becomes an intimate dialogue on navigating personal change, standing in your values, and finding strength during politically turbulent times.

This raw and unfiltered conversation opens with Michelle's candid disclosure about her separation and life changes. Rather than glossing over the hard parts, both women dive deep into how our current political climate affects our relationships, mental health, and business decisions. Together they explore what it means to honor your values even when it feels impossibly difficult.

"Exhaustion is not a status symbol," Davonna reminds us, challenging the hustle culture that permeates entrepreneurship. She shares practical wisdom through her "less and more" list – actionable shifts like padding time in your schedule, practicing gratitude before writing to-do lists, and creating intentional boundaries around social media consumption. Her mantra "relax, nothing is in control" offers a paradoxical comfort for uncertain times.

The conversation ventures into physical wellness too, with Davonna advocating for hormone testing and sharing how discovering her low testosterone levels transformed her quality of life. Both women discuss the importance of finding supportive communities like Small Business Besties, where vulnerability is welcomed and authentic connections flourish.

Whether you're navigating a major life transition, feeling the weight of our political climate, or simply seeking permission to prioritize your wellbeing, this episode reminds you that you're not alone. As Michelle says, "the whole point of Small Business Besties was to provide an authentic space for women to connect" – and this episode delivers exactly that. Reach out if you need support – we're all in this together.

Connect with Davonna: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davonna-saier-56315228/

https://davonna.net/

Check out Jessica Upchurch King's Gratitude materials here and her non-profit YOU ARE here which is what inspired the chatter about Uganda.

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Ready to take your small business to the next level? Join me, Michelle, as I navigate a thrilling new chapter with Small Business Bestie, marking our one-year anniversary with the launch of Season Two on March 8th! I've decided to pivot from my accounting business to pour my heart and soul into our growing community, and I'm excited to introduce new coaching services designed to empower fellow entrepreneurs. My talented son, Azra, has been hard at work creating incredible tools like an AI-assisted business planner, a business tracker, and a business launch tool that will be available to my coaching clients and to members of Small Business Bestie. You'll hear from Azra himself as our featured guest in the season 2 premiere episode, sharing his journey and the innovations he's developed to help your business thrive.

• Become a Sponsor: https://www.smallbusinessbestie.org/podcast-sponsor-application
• Sign Up for Coaching: https://www.smallbusinessbestie.org/coaching

As we embrace this fresh start, I'm thrilled to announce our transition to a video chat podcast model, making our content even more accessible with episodes available on YouTube and potentially Facebook Live. Plus, as part of our community, you'll be invited to weekly virtual roundtable discussions where we can support each other and exchange insights. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this season promises to be a hub of resources, inspiration, and collaboration. Mark your calendars and get ready to join a vibrant network of like-minded business owners who are all about growth and success. Can't wait to see you there!

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
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Savannah Harover, better known as Digital Savvy, joins us to uncover the latest digital marketing and SEO trends that are transforming the online landscape.💻🌎 You're probably like the rest of us, wondering how AI is reshaping SEO into what Savannah calls "search everywhere optimization"? Get ready to learn how making your website content effortlessly digestible and searchable can set you ahead of the curve as the new year approaches. Savannah shares her secret to balancing ambitious goals with avoiding burnout, offering a fresh perspective on intentionality and goal setting.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the world of social media and its surprising influence on SEO. With a focus on on-page and off-page optimization, discover how local business listings, voice search, and platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest can enhance search engine performance. Savannah emphasizes the importance of alt text and meta descriptions, sharing her insights on when to bring in professional help.💪 The episode underscores that SEO is not a quick fix but a long-term investment, requiring structured timelines and a strategic approach to truly make an impact.

Venturing into entrepreneurship, Savannah opens up about her transition from corporate life to fostering a supportive community for solopreneurs. Learn how overcoming challenges like earning Google certifications and forming networks like Love Club has helped her empower women entrepreneurs. By creating authentic networking opportunities, these events encourage turning "one day" dreams into "day one" 1️⃣ actions. Whether you're battling isolation as a work-from-home professional or seeking a space for collaboration, Savannah's journey offers inspiration and practical advice to fuel your entrepreneurial spirit.🗣️🩵

Check out Savannah and Digital Savvy here!
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/_digital_savvy_/
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028611085203

Website: https://digitalsavvyconsulting.com/

Check out Love Club Here!

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
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How did a food tour in Montreal spark a thriving business in Lexington, Kentucky? Hear from Erin Goins, the founder of Bites of the Bluegrass, as she shares her journey from a hopeful teacher to the creator of Lexington’s most engaging food and history tours. Erin’s story is one of passion, discovery, and the drive to showcase her city’s hidden treasures. This episode of the Small Business Bestie podcast takes you through her transition, the creative spark ignited by travel, and her mission to support local restaurants while unraveling the rich tapestry of Lexington's heritage.🐎❤️‍🔥🔍

Erin invites us on a tour through Lexington's past and present, featuring everything from the Downtown Walking Food and History Tour to the bourbon-focused distillery district trek.🥃 Each tour offers a unique perspective, whether it’s the entrepreneurial spirit celebrated in the Cocktails and Bites tour in the East End or the tingling tales of the Haunted Tour. Erin’s ventures are more than just tours; they’re stories waiting to be discovered, embodying the soul of Lexington.🌅 She also gives us a sneak peek into future events and collaborations, including plans for festive pop-ups and mixology classes that promise to enchant locals and visitors alike.

Throughout our conversation, the theme of community pride and inclusion echoes strongly, highlighting Lexington as a melting pot of stories and cultures. We celebrate the remarkable women who have played pivotal roles in the city’s development and Erin’s vision of organizing tours that champion women-owned businesses. Michelle Smock of Cultivate Accounting reinforces the importance of supporting small businesses like Erin’s, encouraging listeners to join the tours and engage with the vibrant Lexington community. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation of what makes Lexington truly special.💙

Check out Erin's Socials Here!
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/erin.goins.14/
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/walkthedress/
Visit Lex- https://www.visitlex.com/guides/post/erins-guide-to-lexington/

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Check out the Small Business Bestie Website

Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
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Discover how adopting the right technology can transform your small business as we welcome Carrie Downey from Clarity Co. to Bestie Bites. With her wealth of expertise, Carrie shares how tools like Monday.com can streamline operations and keep your business on the cutting edge. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the rapid pace of tech advancements or just looking for ways to enhance efficiency, Carrie's insights will guide you toward solutions that allow you to focus on what truly matters. Hear about the generational shift in tech adoption and how a seamless customer experience can be the key to retaining top talent, all while ensuring your business thrives. 💯😜

We also tackle building a member directory for the Small Business Bestie community. Traditional methods like Google Forms have limitations, and we explore how Monday.com can offer a more intuitive and interactive experience with advanced search and filter options. Prioritizing technology💻 investments can lead to significant growth, and Keri encourages listeners to consider the long-term benefits of efficient systems. Finally, don't miss the opportunity for a complimentary exploratory call with Clarity Co., where tailored solutions for optimizing your business workflows are just a conversation away. Join us for an episode packed with actionable insights and valuable advice!

Check out Carrie Here!
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/carriedowney8/
Linked in- 

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
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In our very first "audience" recording, we had to include our favorite woman-supporting-women, Raquel Carter! This episode focuses on the significance of celebrating wins within the entrepreneurial community. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing both personal and professional achievements, fostering support among women entrepreneurs, and the impact of maintaining a positive mindset.

• The role of community in bolstering individual achievements
• Celebrating small victories alongside major accomplishments
• Starting meetings with recognition of wins to encourage positivity
• Distinguishing between personal and professional celebrations
• The value of setting BHAGs to inspire ambition
• Finding balance between work and personal life challenges
• The impact of shared experiences on entrepreneurial resilience

Thank you for being a part of our vibrant community, and don’t forget to celebrate your wins, big and small!

Follow Raquel and Guide Realty:
https://www.facebook.com/raquel.w.carter
https://www.facebook.com/GuideRealty

Website:
https://www.guide-realty.com/

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
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How does a corporate manufacturing professional transition into the world of in-home senior care entrepreneur? Sarah Diener, co-owner of Always Best Care Senior Services, shares her remarkable journey from the structured environment of manufacturing to leading a team dedicated to elderly care. In our chat, Sarah opens up about the challenges she faced, including the steep learning curve of managing a business and building a team that upholds the company's values. Listen as she provides invaluable lessons on leadership and the importance of empowering your team to achieve the best for both clients and the business.

Scaling a business in the caregiving industry isn't without its hurdles. Sarah and I explore the intricacies of establishing supportive systems for caregivers and preventing staff burnout. We delve into the benefits of being part of a franchise, which offers a mix of foundational support and operational autonomy. This episode underscores the significance of systemization in business growth and the crucial role of empathy and boundary-setting in healthcare careers. Discover how documenting processes and refining them can lead to a more sustainable and efficient business model.

Finally, we confront the sensitive topic of end-of-life care planning. Sarah and I discuss the emotional and logistical challenges families face and highlight the importance of early conversations around financial and estate planning. We offer insights into the roles siblings often play in these scenarios and the conflicts that can arise. By promoting preventative care and sharing personal stories, we provide practical advice for navigating the burdens of family caregiving, encouraging listeners to prepare for the future with compassion and clarity.

Follow Sarah and Always Best Care:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/sarah.diener.39
https://www.facebook.com/alwaysbestcarelexington
Website: 
https://alwaysbestcare.com/lexington/

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
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Joanna Sherrow, the dynamic force behind EmpowerSoft, joins us to share her unconventional journey from Savvy Chic Design to spearheading a digital marketing empire. Gain insights from Joanna as she discusses embracing opportunities and figuring things out as she goes, offering invaluable advice for small business owners grappling with customer relationship management. Discover how her team’s expertise transformed the branding for Small Business Bestie and Cultivate Accounting into compelling visuals that speak volumes. 👀🔊

Explore the art of innovation with strategies like bowtie marketing, which balances client acquisition with retention for sustainable growth. Hear about the power of AI and technology to streamline operations and enrich customer interactions, freeing up time for deeper connections. Joanna’s creative problem-solving stories, like crafting custom solutions for an insurance brokerage, highlight the adaptability necessary for overcoming obstacles. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge that underscores the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the relentless pursuit of growth in the ever-evolving landscape of small business management.💪🤓😜

Check out Joanna here!
Canvas Rebel Magazine- https://canvasrebel.com/meet-joanna-sherrow/
Women Leading Kentucky- https://womenleadingky.com/directory/joanna-sherrow-2/

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Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
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Stephanie Spires, a trailblazer in the community and entrepreneurial world, takes us on an inspiring journey through the creation of Women's Entrepreneurs Lex. This dynamic networking group has blossomed into a thriving community with over 1,100 members in Lexington. Stephanie's story is a testament to the power of accidental beginnings turning into monumental successes, as she set out to create a space where women from diverse backgrounds can find support, share resources, and achieve unexpected business breakthroughs. Stephanie offers insight into managing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and fostering an inclusive environment through personal anecdotes. 🩷😌🥇

In this heartfelt episode, we navigate the critical landscape of trauma-informed educational advocacy, especially for neurodivergent children and those facing extreme trauma. Drawing from her own experiences, Stephanie shares the nuances of empowering families to navigate educational settings with confidence, understanding behavior as a form of communication, and fostering collaboration between parents and schools. We also explore the pressing challenges in education post-COVID, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies in schools to address both academic and social setbacks.

As our conversation unfolds, Stephanie candidly discusses her journey as a single mom of five, grappling with the challenges of entrepreneurship while pursuing a passion for family life coaching. Despite financial uncertainties, her leap of faith underscores the essence of risk-taking, overcoming imposter syndrome, and ultimately prioritizing personal fulfillment alongside professional ambitions. We wrap up by exploring the broader mission of building a business that aligns with purpose—child advocacy, education, and mental health—offering a glimpse into the transformative power of women's intuition and determination in reshaping communities and creating lasting impacts.🧠💪

Check out Stephanie's socials!
Spires Strategies- https://spiresstrategies.com/about-1
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/stephanie.spires/

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Check out the Small Business Bestie Website

Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
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Curious about how to navigate the complex world of small business taxes? Learn the essential strategies for managing your quarterly tax payments effectively. Join me, Michelle, as I unpack the intricacies of different tax obligations—federal and state income taxes, withholding, sales, and even local taxes like those in Fayette County, Kentucky. I share my expertise as a co-owner of Cultivate Accounting, offering a practical guideline of setting aside around 30% of your income for quarterly tax payments while highlighting the critical importance of personalized professional advice. 👩‍🏫💯

Understanding your tax duties can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Let me guide you through distinguishing between various types of taxes to ensure you're not caught off guard. Discover the resources available through the Small Business Bestie website and how Cultivate Accounting can connect you with experts ready to tailor their advice to your unique business needs. Whether you use a payroll service for withholding or manage your own sales taxes, this episode aims to equip you with foundational knowledge to keep your small business on the right track. 💪🩵🧡🩷

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Join the growing community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/smallbusinessbesties

Connect with Michelle on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bestiemichellesmock
Check out the Small Business Bestie Website

Cultivate Accounting is the preferred partner of Small Business Besties for all things small business accounting needs. Check them out!
www.cultivatelex.com
https://www.facebook.com/cultivateaccounting