Collaboration is an often overlooked driver of business growth. 

It can spark innovation, expand your market reach, and turn challenges into opportunities in ways you might not expect. 

Yet, many small businesses struggle to find the right partnerships.

So what do you need to do to start collaborating effectively to propel your business forward? 

What are the strategies that can help you turn obstacles into opportunities? 

And how can you spot and secure the right partnerships for lasting success?

In this episode, Chad Jenkins and I discuss the power of business collaborations and how they can significantly boost your company's growth. We also explore practical strategies for identifying and forming the right partnerships to drive success.

Chad is the President & CEO of SeedSpark and a lifelong entrepreneur who possesses a knack for uncovering unconventional opportunities within traditional businesses. His passion lies in understanding how businesses operate and reshaping them for remarkable

returns.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:23 How do you grow a business through collaborations?

04:25 Making your product-based business stand out from competitors?

07:57 Practical steps to implementing collaborations in your business

15:31 Common collaboration mistakes 

17:45 Challenges in entering the collaboration space

18:56 Key factors to consider when vetting potential partners

20:07 Case study: success through business collaborations

24:41 Developing a new revenue stream through collaboration

32:30 Documenting collaboration efforts for strategic decision-making

38:34 Actionable steps to take to start collaborations in your business

Resources:

Chad Jenkins, President & CEO, SeedSpark

https://seedspark.com/

LinkedIn: 

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

LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/company/seedspark/

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/SeedSpark/

Youtube: 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaSD-HmywcGJP4VaDa828dQ

Author: 

Just Add a Zero: Remove the Film, Outperform your Competition, and Grow Exponentially through Collaboration

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:

https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Growing Your Business Through Collaborations

https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/growing-your-business-through-collaborations/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Every construction project starts with a contract—but not all contracts are created equal. If you overlook critical details or skip negotiation, you could face unexpected liabilities, payment delays, and disputes that stall progress. Poor contract management can lead to financial setbacks, strained relationships, and missed opportunities for future projects.

So, how can you identify risks before signing?

What strategies help you negotiate fair terms?
And how can you protect your interests while keeping projects on track?

My guest today is Megan Shapiro. She is a Risk Management Strategist, Construction Attorney & Founder of Construction Contract Coach. After litigating construction disputes for nearly 15 years, Megan is now taking everything she's learned and teaching construction leaders how to Do It Like A Lawyer. 

Through her workshops and coaching programs, Megan offers actionable strategies for negotiation, persuasion, contract review, and strategic communication. Drawing on her years of representing subcontractors, owners, GCs, and everything in between, she empowers construction leaders to win more projects, eliminate claims, and maximize profits—all while reducing risk and helping leaders adopt a lawyer’s mindset to succeed in business.

We discuss: (timestamps)
03:03 Contracts for construction and remodeling businesses  

05:37 Key points for general contractors and subcontractors  

08:36 Indemnity explained in simple terms  

11:43 Managing contract defense costs  

13:10 Remedies for breach of contract  

14:32 Subcontractor liability for issues like water leaks  

16:53 Risks in prime contracts for general contractors  

17:16 When to consult your broker on contracts  

21:37 Fixing non-compliant contracts in ongoing projects  

22:51 Working with brokers on problematic contracts  

23:59 Reasons insurance claims get denied  

28:16 Negotiating contract terms as a subcontractor  

31:04 Examples of subcontractors negotiating better terms  

33:57 Defining late provisions and liquidated damages  

35:31  Reducing contract risks for subcontractors  

37:34  Preventing problems from poorly managed contracts  

40:53 Addressing supply chain and labor shortage risks  

42:20 Options for subcontractors in bad contracts  

43:44 Actionable steps to take to improve your contracts  

Resources:
Megan Shapiro, Risk Management Strategist, Construction Attorney & Founder, Construction Contract Coach

https://meganshapiro.com/

LinkedIn: 

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

Free Negotiation Style Quiz: 

https://meganshapiro.ck.page/81045b49f1

Free resources on Megan’s Website: 

https://meganshapiro.com/free-resources

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:

https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Industry Deep Dive - Construction: Practical Strategies for Managing Construction Contracts

https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/industry-deep-dive-construction-practical-strategies-for-managing-construction-contracts/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Hiring and onboarding a sales team can either make your business or break it. If you don't have a solid hiring process in place, you'll end up guessing who’s right for the job instead of making an informed choice and hoping they’ll figure it out on their own. 

But wrong hires or weak onboarding cost money because it leads to high turnover, frustrated salespeople, and lost sales. You need a clear process to find the right talent, get them up to speed with your business, and keep them motivated with fair, effective compensation.

So, how do you build a strong sales team? 

Which onboarding methods actually work? 

And how do you create compensation plans that drive results without hurting your profits?

My guest today is Aleasha Bahr. She is a sales strategist, speaker, best-selling author, and founder of the Black Sheep Sales Method™. Because if it’s a fit, it’s a fact and there’s no selling involved. She has 15 years of experience customizing sales strategies to your personality, audience, and service (because sales is not a one-size-fits-all!) 

Her methods empower business owners to effortlessly convert up to 80% of their leads without pressure, pitching or pretending to be someone else. Aleasha’s signature Black Sheep Sales Method is based on 15+ years of sales experience, tens of millions of dollars in services personally sold herself and sold by service providers she’s supported. She has been featured on Rocky Mountain Marketing Podcast, Sales Game Changers, Business Innovators Radio, and Outside Sales Talk. 

Aleasha is also the host of the “Sales Is Not A Dirty Word”  podcast.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:34 What’s broken in sales hiring?

04:21 Why experience alone isn’t enough for sales success

09:03 When to hire a sales strategist

11:08 What goes into an effective sales strategy?

16:22 Positioning salespeople as experts

18:16 Helping clients focus on what they need

19:54 Rolling out a new sales strategy to seasoned salespeople

23:51 Red and green flags when hiring salespeople

27:10 How hiring for sales differs from hiring for other roles

30:47 Building a diverse sales team culture and compensation insights

33:36 Actionable next steps to take to develop a strong sales strategy

Resources:
Aleasha Bahr, Sales Strategist and Founder, Black Sheep Sales Method
http://www.aleashabahr.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleashabahr

Black Sheep Sales Method™:
https://aleashabahr.com/blacksheep/

Podcast:
 Sales Is Not A Dirty Word 

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Hire, Onboard, and Compensate Salespeople Effectively
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-hire-onboard-and-compensate-salespeople-effectively/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

One of the toughest conversations you’ll have as a leader is terminating an employee. Whether you’re dealing with someone who’s struggling or changes in your business, getting this process right is make-or-break. One wrong move could land you in legal hot water or send your team's morale into a nosedive.

So, how do you know when it’s the right time to let someone go? 

How can you have these hard conversations with honesty and fairness? 

And what steps can you take to make sure the process is clear, respectful, human-centered, and professional?

My guest today is Jill Shroyer who has over two decades of HR experience and is the CEO & Lead Consultant of Expedition HR which specializes in helping businesses navigate tough workplace conversations without feeling like a jerk! 

Expedition HR offers on-demand, on-call expert HR and tough workplace conversation support and guidance through the Expedition HR Subscription (like having a VP of HR on-call), HR Jumpstart (foundational HR training) and Leadership and AllEmployee Training (signature training is called Navigating Tough Conversations). Expedition HR CEO & Lead Consultant, Jill Shroyer, has over two decades of HR experience and is a published author of the book, Conquer Sticky Situations: A Fresh and Empowering Approach to Tough Talks at Work and in Life. 

Jill is also a published author of the book, Conquer Sticky Situations: A Fresh and Empowering Approach to Tough Talks at Work and in Life. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:48 - Differences between layoffs and performance terminations

06:10 - How to handle termination for poor performance

13:54 - Is the problem with your new hire or the hiring process?

19:25 - Differences in terminating new hires vs. long-term staff

21:29 - What does effective documentation really look like?

27:09 - Setting clear expectations during onboarding

28:40 - When should you offer severance (USA)

32:49 - Handling high-risk terminations

35:22 - How often do worst-case scenarios actually happen?

37:56 - Scripts for difficult terminations and handling emotions

43:56 - Tips for firing a family member in a family business

46:20 - Actionable step to take to handle terminations effectively

Resources:

Jill Shroyer, CEO & Founder, Expedition HR
https://www.expeditionhr.com/

LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-shroyer-phr-32657411

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

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Best Practices for Employee Terminations
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/best-practices-for-employee-terminations/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Growing your business is on every entrepreneur's mind. Maybe you're eyeing new markets, or you've set your sights on doubling revenue in the next few years. Sounds exciting, right? But if your business isn't ready for that growth, it can backfire fast.

What happens when you're not prepared? Production delays start piling up. Your team burns out. Worse, you start losing the customers you worked so hard to get.

So, how do you know if your business is ready for rapid growth?

What steps should you take to prepare your operations? 

And how can you do it all without causing your team or your resources to burn out?

In this episode, Joey Iazzetto and I break down what it takes to achieve real, sustainable business growth. He walks us through the five critical areas you need to master—covering everything from capacity and customer insights to financial strategies and optimizing sales channels for success.

Joey is a national marketing leader and the Chief Growth Officer of ICG Marketing, specializing in driving revenue growth and maximizing ROI through strategic business planning.

With a deep understanding of business strategy, he leverages customer and competitive insights to deliver significant financial gains for privately held businesses. His proven track record showcases measurable results by seamlessly integrating sales, marketing, finance, and operations to enhance overall business performance.

We discuss: 
02:28 – Understanding exponential growth challenges

[04:27 | 07:53 | 15:11 | 30:28 | 35:50] – The 5Cs or critical areas of business growth

11:55 – Conducting effective customer research conversations

20:33 – How market research reveals positioning opportunities

21:53 – Managing customer response to new messaging

40:19 – Why sales and marketing drive easy growth

44:18 – Actionable steps to achieve healthy exponential growth

Resources:

Joey Iazzetto, Chief Growth Officer, ICG Marketing
https://www.icgmarketing.com/

LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joey-iazzetto-8741361/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Growth Without Breaking: The 5 Cs for Sustainable Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/sustainable-business-growth-newcastle-finance/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is a powerful method to improve your sales communication skills. If your sales team isn't closing as many deals as you'd like, the problem might not be the product or service—it could be how effectively the salesperson communicates. 

Misunderstanding the customer’s needs, speaking at the wrong pace, or failing to connect can lead to missed opportunities. Ineffective communication can also create friction with your team, suppliers, and clients. 

So, what exactly is NLP, and how can it help you communicate better and boost your sales? And what steps should you take to start using it to transform your business?

In this episode, I talk with Nikki Rausch about how Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP) can transform your sales strategy. She explains how NLP helps improve communication and close more deals, offering practical tips to integrate it into your sales approach.

Nikki Rausch is a sales maven, sales coach, best-selling author, and podcast host. She integrates her 25+ years of experience selling to such prestigious organizations as The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Hewlett-Packard, and NASA, sharing with her clients the same approaches that led to her shattering sales records in her industry and receiving multiple “top producer” awards along the way. A business degree from the University of Washington and her master's certification in Neuro-Linguistic Programming mesh perfectly to create a powerful foundation upon which Nikki built tremendous sales skills and now provides enormous benefits for her clients.

We discuss: (timestamps)
04:19  What is NLP and Why Is It Important for Sales?

06:00  How Does NLP Improve Sales Conversations?

10:16  The Key Difference Between Mimicking and Matching in NLP

15:11 How to Identify NLP Opportunities in Your Sales Interactions

16:25 Understanding the Four Levels of Competency in NLP

19:47  Nikki Rausch’s Journey Into NLP and Sales Mastery

24:45 How Nikki Trains Salespeople to Implement NLP Effectively

25:16 Applying NLP Techniques in Sales Emails for Better Results

28:12 How to Avoid Using Too Many "I Statements" in Communication

40:07 What is Pre-Framing and How It Can Transform Your Sales Calls?

45:46 Actionable Steps to Implement NLP in Your Business

Resources:
Nikki Rausch, Sales Maven | Sales Coach | Author | Podcast Host
https://yoursalesmaven.com/

LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolerausch/

Nikki is offering a free ebook, Closing the Sale, which covers the final three steps of her Selling Staircase framework to help boost confidence in consult calls. Download it at yoursalesmaven.com/kathy

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Mastering Sales with Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/mastering-sales-with-neuro-linguistic-programming-nlp/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Getting your pricing strategy right is crucial to business success. And though it might seem as simple as choosing a random number - it’s not. Pricing is more complex and understanding the psychology behind your customers’ buying decisions plays a huge role in getting it right. If your prices don’t match the perceived value of your products, you might lose customers, miss out on sales, or damage your brand's reputation.  

So, how do you price your products so you can hit your goals? 

What common pricing mistakes should you avoid? 

And how do you make sure that your pricing strategy keeps you competitive in the long run?

In this episode, Adam Wallace and I explore the fine “art” of pricing and its critical role in business growth. He shares the psychology behind pricing decisions, the impact of prices on customer perception, and shares strategies to optimize pricing for maximum profit. 

Adam is a Price & Earnings Optimization expert and has spent years unlocking pricing power for products and services. After more than a decade as a corporate fixer, joining Fortune 100 leadership teams to capture additional value on multibillion-dollar ventures, he now serves as an interim executive and board member for private companies 

We discuss: (timestamps)
03:13 Understanding the psychological and emotional side of pricing 

09:30 How pricing affects perceived value and customer satisfaction

10:58 Why copying competitors' pricing strategies can hurt your business 

16:05 Customer feedback is just one piece of the pricing puzzle 

19:34 How small businesses can win by focusing on niche markets 

26:26 Targeting untapped markets by focusing on customer groups 

28:54 How our perception of pricing is shaped by what we value 

29:15 Why focus and clarity are key to value-based pricing success 

31:43 How buyer urgency can impact pricing decisions 

32:01 Setting first sale value precedents 

38:28 Optimizing Your Pricing to Drive Business Growth 

46:01 Actionable Steps to Improve Your Pricing Strategy This Week

Resources:
Adam Wallace, Price & Earnings Optimization:
www.AdamWallace.com

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/propertyofwallace/  

Email:
Adam@AdamWallace.com

Author:
(Re)Value: Raise Your Prices and Build Your Legacy (Business Expert Press; July 22, 2024)

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | The Art and Science of Pricing
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/the-art-and-science-of-pricing/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Customer retention is an often overlooked aspect of business success. When you focus too much on attracting new customers, you risk neglecting the ones you already have. This could mean lost revenues and damaged trust.

To fix this, businesses need to turn to customer journey mapping. By mapping out key interactions, you can improve customer experiences, build loyalty, and increase engagement.

But what is customer journey mapping exactly and how can it prevent customer churn? And what steps can you take to keep clients satisfied and loyal?

In this episode, Samantha Irwin and I explore the power of customer journey mapping and how it can help your business thrive. We break down her six key stages of the journey and share strategies on how you can improve customer retention and satisfaction - so you don’t lose them to the competition.

Samantha is a small business coach & consultant and the creator of the Power of People Academy and the Creating a Culture Deck. She inspires and educates teams to create exceptional Customer Experiences that foster loyalty and advocacy, driving both financial success and heartfelt service for brick-and-mortar businesses. She equips businesses to provide consistently Exceptional Customer Experiences, fostering thriving enterprises and fulfilled staff. Samantha's commitment extends to teaching business owners how to make their establishments preferred workplaces and favored customer destinations.

We discuss: (timestamps)
03:05 - Traditional vs. non-linear customer journey maps
05:39 - The six key steps of customer journey mapping
11:58 - Why customer interaction is crucial for business success
15:37 - Is great customer service personality trainable or innate?
18:52 - How to refine your hiring process to attract the right staff
21:05 - Hospitality as a crucial business skill
21:50 - How online-only businesses can improve customer experience
23:59 - Why curating the customer experience benefits your business
27:21 - Real-life examples of customer experience transformation
34:24 - How culture change improves employee engagement and retention
34:48 - Training hospitality skills to enhance customer satisfaction
36:49 - How curiosity builds customer connections and opportunities
37:31 - The superpower of maintaining energy in customer service
39:34 - Why sometimes you have to 'fake it' to lead effectively
41:04 - One actionable step to improve customer retention

Resources:
Samantha Irwin, Small Business Coach & Consultant, Kaizen Small Business Solutions
https://kaizen.zone/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/kaizen-business-coaching-consulting/

Courses + Downloads: 

• Power of People Academy, your hospitality boot camp: (5 week On demand Front Line Customer Service Training Program): https://kaizen.zone/power-of-people-course/
• Customer Journey Map Free Download: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62293e8a78ab99224ea6e655

Blog post | Improving Customer Retention with Customer Journey Mapping
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/improving-customer-retention-with-customer-journey-mapping/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Franchise audits are vital for maintaining the financial health of your business. However, many new franchisors find this process challenging, struggling through it due to a lack of preparation and understanding of what it’s all about. This can lead to compliance issues, financial discrepancies, and even damage to the brand’s reputation.

So, what exactly is franchise auditing? How does it work? And why is it so important for the financial health of your franchise business?

In this episode, Stacy Farber and I discuss how to prepare for a franchise audit, what to expect, and strategies for managing your franchise's finances as it grows.

Stacy brings over 25 years of experience in audit and financial leadership experience to her engagements. She is the  Connecticut Audit and Attest Practice Leader.  and has extensive experience completing financial statement audits, single audits, and reviews and compilations for multiple industries, including franchising entities. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:26  What is a franchise audit?

04:20  What auditors look for in financial statements 

08:00 What negative equity means for your franchise

10:02 How revenue recognition affects your financials

12:56 How long does a franchise audit take?

14:38 How far back should auditors look?

16:45 How often should you do franchise audits?

17:48  What to do if your franchise sale gets denied

18:49 Cash vs. accrual accounting 

25:54 Common issues in franchise audits

27:41 Best practices running a franchise  

34:03 Actionable tips to get  your business franchise audit ready

Resources:

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-r-farber-cpa-9a3722/

Related Episodes:
How to Turn Your Business Into a Successful Franchise

How to Pick the Right ERP

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to be Franchise Audit Ready
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-be-franchise-audit-ready/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Is your business growing but struggling with outdated tools, systems, and processes? ERP systems can help streamline operations and boost efficiency. But, ERP, or Enterprise resource planning, is more than just adding new technology. It requires careful planning and proper change management. 

When is the right time to implement an ERP system in your business? How do you get started, and how do you help your team transition smoothly?

In this episode, Allison Cummins and I discuss ERP implementation and why change management is a major part of it. She shares how growing businesses can benefit from ERP systems to streamline operations and how to ensure a smooth transition for your team.

Allison is the Founder and CEO of Blue Outcomes, a boutique consulting firm that specializes in Project and Change Management. She is a trusted advisor for growing companies and is known for bringing transparency and accountability to business transformations. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

03:28 When is the right time to consider an ERP system?

05:04 Revenue size for ERP implementation

06:18 Big ERP players vs. smaller systems

07:43 The differences between major ERPs (SAP, NetSuite, Epicor, Microsoft Dynamics)

09:49 Transitioning from smaller ERPs to larger ones 

11:55 The cost of switching to an ERP

15:53 Preparing data for ERP implementation

18:34 Data types to include in an ERP system

20:49 How far back should data go in an ERP system?

23:59 Connecting different data systems in an ERP

25:17 Common issues on the people side during ERP implementations

29:44 Preparing staff for ERP implementation 

32:16 Stories of successful and unsuccessful ERP implementations

36:27 Causes of scope creep in ERP projects

40:47 Actionable steps for starting the ERP process

Resources:
Allison Cummins, Founder and CEO, of Blue Outcomes
https://blueoutcomes.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonecummins/

Email:
allison@blueoutcomes.com

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Pick the Right ERP
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-pick-the-right-erp/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Your small business is poised for growth, but lurking legal risks could derail your success. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of growth and overlook the legal side of things. From employment laws and tax codes to those contracts that seem clear until they aren't, any of these can lead to expensive and time-consuming disputes. 

So, how do you make sure your business is legally protected? Do you hire a full-time lawyer or a consultant? And are there other ways for you to stay compliant and reduce risks without breaking the bank? 

In this episode, Michelle Bomberger and I discuss how you can minimize legal risks in your growing businesses. She shares how small business owners like you can protect themselves legally as the business expands including how to manage vendor and customer contracts, ensure compliance, and address employment issues during the recruitment process.

My guest today is Michelle Bomberger, CEO and Managing Attorney at Equinox Business Law Group. Michelle believes that every business deserves to have the same strategic law advantages as mega-corporations. 

Her experience as a business owner and entrepreneur gives Michelle unique insights into the emotional and practical aspects of owning a business and how important legal infrastructure is to growth and success. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:17 How business owners can minimize legal risk

04:10 Key points in vendor contracts for risk mitigation

06:36 Defining indemnification for business owners

08:36 Must-have items in customer contracts

9:23 Importance of tracking contract expiration dates

13:14 Essential components in employee contracts

16:57 Managing legal requirements for remote employees

18:47 Hiring HR experts for legal compliance

19:55 Integrating contracts, insurance, and business structure

24:37 Instances where the corporate veil can be pierced

27:16 Differences between professional liability and E&O insurance

28:55 Coordinating legal and insurance conversations

34:25 Key discussion points with a strategic legal advisor

36:44 Steps to gain better legal insight and minimize risks

Resources:

Michelle Bomberger, Strategic Legal Counsel, Founder and CEO, Equinox Law Group
https://equinoxbusinesslaw.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebomberger/

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

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/equinoxlaw

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@EquinoxBellevue

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Minimizing Legal Risk in Your Growing Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/minimizing-legal-risk-in-your-growing-business/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Great businesses thrive by investing in their people. When companies face tough times, it's often due to a lack of workforce development. 

If employees don't feel supported or aren't given chances to grow, it can lead to demotivation, higher turnover, and team dysfunction.  

So, what is workforce development? How does it function, and how can you implement it effectively?

In this episode, Michelle Arentz and I chat about why workforce development matters and how creating a positive workplace culture can really boost employee retention and help your business grow. We talk about what makes the recruitment process effective and share some handy tips for small businesses to keep their teams motivated and productive.

My guest today is Michelle Arentz. She is a workforce development consultant and founder of Lazarus Learning LLC. She is a workforce MD, helping companies enjoy a healthy bottom line by focusing on strengthening their hiring, teams, leaders, and cultures. She has woven a career tapestry of over 2 decades between corporate learning and development in both Canada and the US as well as spending 7 years as a high school teacher.

We discuss: (timestamps)

01:50 The negative effects of the lack of intentional culture-building

5:40 The Four core elements of company culture

13:14 Treating employees well for better business outcomes

17:16 Avoiding the "Penny wise and pound foolish" trap

21:09 Employees are an asset, not an expense

26:18 The importance of employee happiness

33:45 Communicating changes effectively

37:40 Developing management skills in small businesses

43:50 One actionable step to move your company closer to your goals

Resources:
Michelle Arentz, Workforce Development Consultant, Founder of Lazarus Learning:
www.lazaruslearning.com

LinkedIn:
www.linkedin.com/in/lazaruslearning

Email:
advance@lazaruslearning.com

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How Workforce Development Drives Business Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-workforce-development-drives-business-growth/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Employee retention lies at the heart of every successful business. It's the lifeline that keeps productivity high and morale even higher, making your team feel valued and appreciated, and motivating them to do their best. 

Yet, many companies struggle with keeping their best talent. Even businesses that seem great on paper often face high turnover rates. So why is it becoming harder to retain your employees? Why is this a recurring issue? What makes people want to leave? And what can you do to really show you appreciate them in a personal and relevant way?

In this episode, Kristie Holmes and I talk about what it takes to retain great talent in small businesses. She shares the basics of employee retention strategies and provides practical tips for businesses aiming to build and maintain strong teams.

Kristie is the dynamic force behind The HR Dept. With over 15 years of profound experience in recruiting and Human Resources across a spectrum of industries, she embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication. Her mission to provide tailored HR services ensures that small businesses not only survive but thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Download her HR templates to help you get your recruitment process in place:

https://thehrdeptky.com/resources/

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:49 Why a good retention strategy is important

04:14 Common issues affecting employee retention

07:36  The perceived appreciation gap between managers and employees

08:34 Practical ways for managers to show appreciation to employees

10:02 The impact of public appreciation on company culture

11:07 Monetary and non-monetary methods to appreciate employees

16:09 Showing appreciation to remote teams

17:37 Effective methods for remote team appreciation

21:45 Employee training and development on a tight budget

24:04 Implementing an official mentorship program

25:29 Rewarding employees who mentor others

27:41 Encouraging employee-to-employee appreciation

30:19 Examples of successful employee retention strategies

36:16 Actionable steps to take to foster appreciation and gratitude

Resources:

Kristie Holmes, Owner, The HR Dept, LLC
https://thehrdeptky.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hr-dept-llc/

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

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

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Retain Your Best Employees

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

When your financial records are not accurate or organized,  it can lead to poor decisions, financial problems, and stunted growth.

So how do you keep your books clean? What should you look for in a bookkeeper and accountant? And how do you make sure that your financial records are accurate and up to date?  

In this episode, Jennifer Yousem and I talk all about the challenges of messy accounting for small businesses. We break down why this is so common, even in this day and age of accounting software and tools, and its true impact on the health of your business. She also shares tips for maintaining clean books to support your company’s growth.

Jennifer Yousem is a Fractional CFO who started her career in equity research. She pivoted into corporate finance for enterprise media and advertising companies and led teams in strategic and operational finance at Sony, Paramount, Clear Channel & Daily Mail. She was part of the team tasked with launching Verizon Hearst Media Partners and as their CFO, helped lead the merger with Complex to form Complex Networks, a multi-platform digital lifestyle brand owned by Verizon and Hearst. 

We discuss: (timestamps) 

03:06  Discovering messy books

04:50 Common issues with messy books

11:09  Differences between revenue, profit, and cash

16:10 Hiring a qualified bookkeeper

19:49 Tips on weeding out the wrong people in your team

28:05 Optimal month-end closing process

35:17  Actionable steps to take to keep your books organized and accurate

Resources:

Jennifer Yousem, Fractional CFO, I Love EBITDA
https://iheartebitda.com/

LinkedIn:
 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferyousem

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/yousem/?hl=en

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Messy Finances and How to Avoid Them
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/messy-finances-and-how-to-avoid-them/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Expense management is a must for any business.  Every dollar spent can either contribute to your growth or drain your resources. And while it seems like a simple thing to do, many businesses struggle with it -  causing bigger financial problems down the road. So what can you do to avoid this in your business? 

In this episode, John Krebsbach and I go very deep into effective expense management. From managing credit cards and checks to dealing with reluctant vendors, he shares practical tips and real-world examples to help you implement an effective expense management system and protect your growing business.

John is a Principal at Precision Advisors, a business operations advisory firm for companies who are growing or are looking to ignite growth. He is an experienced founder and chief operating officer who enjoys the journey of building high-growth companies with great people. He earned and refined his growth operator skill set in a variety of environments, from co-founding a startup (and shutting it down) to scaling an Inc. 5000 business and building new teams within a global corporation.

We discuss: (timestamps) 

02:25 What is expense management and why it matters

05:14  Managing credit card expenses and tracking spending

17:49 Expense management for check and ACH-heavy businesses

26:14 Working with vendors resistant to digital tools

28:15 Implementing expense management processes 

42:21 One actionable step to take to implement an efficient expense management system

Resources:

John Krebsbach, Principal, Precision Advisors
https://precision-advisors.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnkrebsbach/

Special offer for listeners of the podcast:
Get a $500 sign-up bonus from Ramp to manage your business expenses: https://ramp.com/partners/precision-advisors

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Effective Expense Management For a Financially Healthy Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/effective-expense-management-for-a-financially-healthy-business/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Transforming your construction business can be a challenging yet rewarding process.

Is it time to scale up? Well, you've got customers to deal with, suppliers to find, building codes to follow, and a team to keep on point. 

All these moving parts directly affect your finances. Things can get chaotic fast, and if you neglect any of these areas, it can really hurt your financial stability and growth.

So, how do you keep everything on track in your construction business? 

What areas should you focus on to boost your finances? 

And what strategies can you implement to make sure all parts of your operations align with your financial goals?

In this episode, Dominic Rubino and I discuss strategies to elevate your construction business, from specific operational improvements you can make and the financial planning and analysis you need to support your expansion goals.

Dominic is a construction business coach and host of the podcasts  “Profit Tool Belt”  and “Cabinet Maker Profit System”. He is also a serial entrepreneur, a proud husband and father, and a horrible fly fisherman. In both shows, Dominic shares lessons, tips, and tricks from thought leaders in the construction industry. With Dominic, you’ll get reality, not theory. He uses real -life stories and colorful anecdotes that help you see what the next level looks like and know how to get there. 

He’s been a business coach for over 23 years and an Entrepreneur for 25. Over the years he’s had companies in Construction Trades, Contracting, Mail Order, Pharmaceuticals, Real Estate, & Business Coaching. His commitment to you is that you’ll learn more in this interview than most businesspeople do in a year. And he wants you to go and apply it!

We discuss: (timestamps) 

02:22 Common problems in construction businesses before coaching

03:26 Key issues for construction businesses aiming to grow

04:39 The benefits of having the right team

07:46 How changing your mindset can drive growth

08:52 Real-life construction case study example

16:25 Business alignment & focus

24:29 Addressing operational problems in construction

25:52 Implementing time tracking for better planning

29:53 Explaining new processes to your construction team

31:18 Actionable steps to boost construction business growth

Resources:

Dominic Rubino, Construction Business Coach and Podcast Host, BizStratPlan Profit Tool Belt
https://profittoolbelt.com/
https://cabinetmakerprofitsystem.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominicrubino/

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

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKVBkA9GmALX_J7W3iGIy6g

Podcast:
https://profittoolbelt.com/podcast-dom/

Podcast:
https://cabinetmakerprofitsystem.com/podcast/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Boosting Financial Growth in Your Construction Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/boosting-financial-growth-in-your-construction-business/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

When people talk about business innovation, the top of their minds is new tech or new products.

However, small business innovation particularly, is so much more than that.  

It's also about fresh ideas, seeing things from a different perspective - including how you use your products, making smart choices, and strategic growth. 

So what does innovation look like in small businesses? 

Are there any tools or techniques that can enhance innovation? 

How does it drive success? 

And how can you, as a leader, build a culture of innovation in your business?

In this episode, Steve Wunker and I talk about innovation, specifically in businesses. What it is, what it looks like, and real-world examples of innovative businesses. He shares practical strategies and informative insights on how you can foster innovation and stay ahead of the market regardless if you are a small or large business.

Steve Wunker is the Managing Director of New Markets Advisors, a global consulting firm focused on innovation. He was responsible for one of the world’s first smartphones, pioneered the mobile marketing and commerce industries, and partnered with a longtime colleague, Harvard Business School’s Clayton Christensen, in building the consulting firm Innosight. He’s also the author of three award-winning business books and the co-author of the new book: The Innovative Leader: Step-by-Step Lessons from Top Innovators for You and Your Organization.

We discuss: (timestamps) 

02:08 Exploring innovation in small businesses

03:06 The innovation process for small businesses

04:06  Managing customer expectations in innovation

09:16 Innovation as an evolutionary process

11:10 Identifying opportunities for innovation

13:02 Rebranding as a strategy for innovation

17:13 Different types of innovation beyond products and services

18:40 Questions and frameworks to jumpstart innovative thinking

20:31 Building and cultivating innovation in your business

27:05 Balancing financial prudence and innovation

31:30 Real-world example: laundromat innovation

34:56 Actionable steps to take for small business innovation

Resources:

Steve Wunker, Managing Director, New Markets Advisor
http://www.innovativeleaderbook.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenwunker/

Email:
swunker@newmarketsadvisors.com 

Author:
The Innovative Leader: Step-by-Step Lessons from Top Innovators for You and Your Organization (2024) - https://a.co/d/57VXey0

Capturing New Markets: How Smart Companies Create Opportunities Others Don’t (2011)
https://www.amazon.com/Capturing-New-Markets-Companies-Opportunities/dp/0071825959

Jobs to be Done: A Roadmap for Customer-Centered Innovation (2016)
https://www.amazon.com/Jobs-Be-Done-Customer-Centered-Innovation-ebook/dp/B01HJ35YNI?ref_=ast_author_dp

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Practical Steps for Business Innovation and Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/practical-steps-for-business-innovation-and-growth/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Running a business can be very stressful, as you may already know.

When stress kicks in, it can impact both your body and mind, affecting how well you work. 

If it’s not managed, it can lead to loss of focus, missed opportunities, and even burnout, which can prevent your business from growing. 

The good news is, there's a simple yet effective way to manage stress called Breathwork. 

This technique helps you regain control and stay calm during the daily hustle. 

But what is breathwork exactly? 

How is it different from regular breathing? 

How does it help manage stress? 

And how can you make sure you're doing it correctly?

In this episode, John Hall and I break down a number of powerful strategies for managing stress, including mastering breathwork, avoiding getting locked in “survival mode” and shifting focus to positivity and gratitude.

John is a Breathwork & Embodiment Coach and a 30-year Fortune 100 tech leader. He left corporate life to cultivate the relationships and purpose that drive fulfillment. Now, he coaches executives and entrepreneurs via a science-backed methodology blending neural science, breathwork, and somatic practices to manage stress, boost self-confidence, and unlock potential.

We discuss: (timestamps) 

02:35 The Impact of stress on business performance

04:53 The physical effects of chronic stress

09:53 B.P.M: Breath, Physiology and Mindset

20:07 Identifying daily stressors and how to overcome them

21:15 How to shift negative thoughts 

23:09  Breathwork in Action

27:37 Relaxation tips during stressful moments

30:26 Tapping as a stress-relief technique

35:26 The quickest way to get yourself to relax right now 

Resources:
John Hall, Breathwork & Embodiment Coach
https://johnhallcoaching.com/

Email: 
john@johnhallcoaching.com

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnthomashall/

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

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

Speaking + Media Inquiries:
https://quick.callwithjohnhall.com

Other resources mentioned in this episode:

Amy Cuddy
https://www.amycuddy.com/

Daniel Kahneman
https://www.amazon.com/Thinking-Fast-Slow-Daniel-Kahneman/dp/0374533555

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Mastering Business Stress with Breathwork
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/mastering-business-stress-with-breathwork/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

For your business to grow, you need a recruitment strategy or recruitment process in place to get the right team in place.

If you don’t find the people that can best fit your business needs, you might end up with higher turnover and lower productivity, making it harder to hit your goals. 

So what can you do to get it right?  

You can optimize your job listings, cultivate the right culture and even adjust your salary ranges to attract good candidates. 

You can also bring in professional HR recruiters. 

They have the expertise to find the right candidates quickly and efficiently, making sure you get the best fit for whatever your business needs.

But how do you actually work with them? 

What's the process like? 

How long does it take to find someone who's the perfect fit? 

And what can you do to help them get you the best results?

In this episode, Kristie Holmes and I explore the essentials of successful recruitment in small businesses. We address the different parts of the recruitment process and provide actionable tips on how to set it up for businesses looking to expand their teams.

Kristie is the dynamic force behind The HR Dept. With over 15 years of profound experience in recruiting and Human Resources across a spectrum of industries, she embodies the spirit of innovation and dedication. Her mission to provide tailored HR services ensures that small businesses not only survive but thrive in today's competitive landscape.

Download her HR templates to help you get your recruitment process in place: https://thehrdeptky.com/resources/

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:27  Why it's hard for small businesses to find the right hires

05:28 How to start the recruiting process

07:40 The ideal length for a job description

08:23 Next steps after creating a job description

13:22  Using AI tools for job descriptions and resumes

14:03 Timeframe from engaging a recruiter to interviews

15:01 Shortest and longest times to find a candidate

16:57 Aligning pay expectations with market rates

21:30 How company culture affects recruitment

25:16 Being upfront about work-life balance expectations

25:30 The difference between hiring a recruiter and DIY recruiting

27:22 How recruiters charge for their services

29:04  Actionable step to take to find the right people

Resources:

Kristie Holmes, Owner, The HR Dept, LLC:
https://thehrdeptky.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hr-dept-llc/

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

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

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Hire Your Best Employees
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-hire-your-best-employees/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Workforce planning is a vital strategy for your growing business. 

It makes sure that you have the right people fill the right roles at the right time. 

But applying workforce planning concepts to your operations might be challenging, especially if it's something you've never had in your business before. 

So, what exactly is workforce planning? 

How does it integrate into your business structure? 

And how do you know if it's effective or not?

In this episode, Carol Fraser and I talk about workforce planning and its significance, impact, and role in the growth and success of your business. From understanding job architecture to optimizing talent alignment, Carol also shares practical strategies on how to implement this in your business effectively.

Carol specializes in workforce planning and strategic HR leadership, offering cost-effective fractional HR executive services. With a track record spanning diverse industries, she helps organizations anticipate talent needs, optimize workforce deployment, and drive sustainable growth. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:04 What is Workforce Planning

04:43 Five essential inputs for effective workforce planning

09:29 Defining what kind of people you need in your organization 

13:57 Key questions to ask when incorporating workforce planning in your operations

24:31 Common workforce planning mistakes and how to address them 

30:22 What is employee experience?

32:49 Job description vs job architecture

36:56 Actionable steps to take in implementing workforce planning

Resources:
Carol Fraser, Workforce Planning Expert, Fractional HR Executive:
https://www.c4talent.com

Schedule a meeting with Carol:
https://www.c4talent.com/calendar 

Workforce Planning PDFs:
Workforce Planning.pdf
HR-Opoly.pdf

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Workforce Planning and Job Architecture for Business Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/workforce-planning-and-job-architecture-for-business-growth/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

In the world of successful businesses, effective leadership alignment is crucial. When a company succeeds, it's often because its leaders make sure that everyone in the company understands, agrees, and works together to achieve its goals - that their strategies match the overall vision and objectives. 

This alignment fuels growth and success. However, when it's missing, people tend to focus on their own agendas, which can derail progress and cause problems. 

So, what exactly is leadership alignment? 

How can you achieve it in your business?  

And why is it so important for success?

In this episode, Andy Katzman and I talk about leadership alignment, what it is, why it’s important, and how it is a driving force in achieving sustainable business growth. He also shares tips, tools, and strategies on how you can foster this alignment with your team members whatever the size of your business.

Andy is the Founder and CEO of  Andy Katzman Small Business Advising. He is a Human Resources and operations executive and expert with over 20 years of experience and has designed and implemented HR strategies for many businesses in a variety of industries and lifecycle stages.

We discuss: (timestamps)

01:55  Importance of leadership alignment

03:53 Transparent communication with employees

05:27 The negative impact of silos on businesses

07:27  Small business human resources advising 

09:33  Tools to use for addressing misalignment

11:32 Creating a safe space for employee-leadership communication

13:43 Receiving and acting upon employee feedback constructively

16:11  Real-life examples of those who did not heed the advice

19:13  Upholding company values and culture

25:03 Assessing cultural fit pre-mergers and acquisitions

26:19 Cultural alignment in business acquisitions

29:42 Addressing data limitations in small businesses' human resources

30:12 Actionable steps to take in achieving leadership alignment 

Resources:

Andy Katzman, Founder, Andy Katzman Small Business Advising 

 https://aksba.net/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-katzman-a5b92117/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/


Blog post | How to Achieve Leadership Alignment
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-achieve-leadership-alignment/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

When your business becomes a victim of financial fraud, specifically check fraud, it can be a total nightmare. Not only will you lose money but you'll also lose time in trying to track it down, closing your account, and talking to your bank, lawyers, and the authorities. 

Depending on the size of the theft, it can affect your operations. You may not be able to pay your employees and your suppliers, damaging your reputation and it may even lead to legal action against you.

So what can you do to protect your business? 

What are the red flags to watch out for?  

What are the different forms of check fraud?

And what can you do to try and get your money back?

In this episode, Courtney Olson and I discuss the rising threat of Check Fraud and its impact on your growing business. We uncover common fraud tactics and share practical tips to safeguard your business finances.

Courtney is the Senior Vice President and Managing Director of First Bank Chicago and is responsible for supporting the Bank’s growth and expansion through developing strong business relationships within the local marketplace. She utilizes her background in sales, lending, and deposits to assist clients and prospects in designing a holistic banking strategy.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:04 The different types of financial Fraud

04:08 How to recognize check fraud

08:03 Prevention strategies against the check, ACH, and wire fraud

11:38 What is Positive Pay?

13:56 Addressing the limitations of Positive Pay 

15:58 Managing significant Bank-Approved unauthorized transactions

22:25 How the ACH Positive Pay System works

24:20 Actionable steps to take to protect your business from check or financial fraud

Resources:
Courtney A. Olson, Senior Vice President / Managing Director, First Bank Chicago
https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-a-olson-6865b410/

Website -
https://www.firstbankchicago.com/

Contact Info -
colson@firstbankchicago.com

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Prevent Check Fraud
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-prevent-check-fraud/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

When hiring for a new position, it's crucial to get it right.  Hiring mistakes can be costly and disruptive, affecting productivity, team morale, and your bottom line. Making the wrong choice can also mean wasted time, resources, and opportunities for your company to grow. 

But how do you avoid making hiring mistakes? 

What are the red flags to watch out for? 

And how do you pick the right people who will bring your business to the next level?

In this episode, Jamie Van Cuyk and I explore the ins and outs of Hiring Mistakes and how they can affect your growing business. We discuss what can trip up your hiring process and provide actionable tips to avoid them. 

Jamie Van Cuyk is the owner and lead strategist of Growing Your Team, is an expert in hiring and onboarding teams within small businesses. Drawing from over ten years of leadership experience, Jamie teaches her clients how to hire their first team members, including employees and long-term contractors. By learning the dynamics of each company and their specific needs, she helps them find their perfect-fit, long-lasting team members and avoid the hiring and firing cycle. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:01 Common hiring mistakes by small businesses

04:52  Defining your hiring needs

07:41 Creating strategic hiring plans 

10:34 The differences between hiring for tactical vs leadership positions

15:38 Interview questions to determine if candidates are tacticians or more strategic 

17:20 Spotting hiring and interview red flags 

22:44 Balancing gut instincts and bias when hiring

24:53 The average number of interview rounds for a position

28:30 Evaluating candidates through paid assignments

32:42 Actionable steps to take to get your hiring right

Resources:

Jamie Van Cuyk, CEO and Lead Strategist, Growing Your Team
https://growingyourteam.com/

Contact Info: 
jamie@growingyourteam.com

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

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

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamievancuyk/ 

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Avoid Hiring Mistakes
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-avoiding-hiring-mistakes/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

One of the most creative and simple ways to grow a business is by taking the Appreciation Marketing approach. It’s a strategy that can help you strengthen your relationships with your customers by showing your appreciation and that you genuinely care about them. 

It's a common problem in many businesses. You might just be too busy to stop and take time to acknowledge your customers, partners, and even those in your network. You might be focused on making sales or just not sure how to go about building these connections without coming across as insincere or inauthentic.

But by using Appreciation Marketing strategies, you can stop yourself from alienating your customers and instead grow a loyal following. This will in turn, lead to increased engagement with your business and your sales. 

The sad reality is though when companies fail to show genuine appreciation, they can alienate their customers and miss the chance to grow a loyal following. Even worse, the competition can quickly take over and leave them behind. 

But what exactly is Appreciation Marketing? 

How does it work? 

How can you use it? 

And how does it help grow your business?

In this episode, Curtis Lewsey and I discuss Appreciation Marketing and its impact on building genuine relationships with customers, partners, and stakeholders. We explore what it is, how it works, and how to implement it effectively for long-term success.

Curtis Lewsey is the Author of Appreciation Marketing ® and Founder of AMcards.com. With over 15 years of experience in the sales and marketing industry, Curtis has carved a remarkable path by understanding the true essence of relationships. He is the co-author of the national best-selling book, Appreciation Marketing® - How to Achieve Greatness Through Gratitude. He then started AMcards which helps businesses implement an automated Appreciation Marketing® Strategy - a simple, inexpensive, and highly effective system for long-term follow-up with real greeting cards.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:35 What is Appreciation Marketing

03:43 The financial impact of Appreciation Marketing

13:57 Appreciation Marketing as a better approach to making sales

16:35  Building meaningful relationships through personalization

24:30 Automation can help streamline personalization.

33:30 Generic vs personalized gifts

37:32 Actionable steps to take to implement Appreciation Marketing

Resources:

Curtis Lewsey , Author of Appreciation Marketing ® and Founder of AMcards.com
 https://amcards.com/

LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/clewsey/

Email -
Curtis@AMCards.com

Author -

Appreciation Marketing, How to Achieve Greatness Through Gratitude

Sign up for a free card at https://amcards.com/

Get your Free Audiobook from Curtis at appreciationmarketing.com/audiobook

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Building Better Business Relationships Through Appreciation Marketing

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

When your business grows, expect to get busy. But what happens when there is just too much on your plate? You might need an Executive Assistant (EA).

It's a pivotal role within the organizational structure, providing crucial support to CEOs while helping steer the company toward success. 

So how do you go about hiring one?

What do they do?

Do you really need one?

How do you manage their responsibilities? 

And how do they help grow your business?

In this episode, Gina Cotner and I talk about the pivotal role Executive Assistants play in business growth, covering essential topics such as how to choose one, how to build trust, and, the art of delegation.

Gina Cotner is the CEO of Athena Executive Services, a firm that pairs virtual Executive Assistants around the United States with swamped and successful entrepreneurs and executives. Her team of high-caliber Executive Assistants work part-time, from home, taking many tasks and projects off the plate of successful people, leaving them free to spend their time where they are needed most.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:16 Introduction to Executive Assistants 

04:30 When is it time to get an EA

06:27 What is a Chief of Staff?

09:32 What are the qualities of a Chief of Staff? 

13:41 Core Responsibilities of EAs 

16:34 How EAs can manage your inbox

20:37 What type of work do EAs generally excel in?

22:03 How much managing will EAs need?

25:54  Questions to ask to determine if an EA is the right fit

29:50 EA costs

35:13 The pros and cons of using an agency to hire an EA

36:40 Agency culture vs your business culture

38:13 Actionable step to take to figure out if you need an Executive Assistant

Resources:

Gina Cotner,  CEO,  Athena Executive Services
www.athenaexecutiveservices.com

LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/athenaea

Facebook - 
https://www.facebook.com/AthenaVirtualAssistants

Instagram - 
https://www.instagram.com/athena_executive_services

YouTube -
https://www.youtube.com/@athenaexecutiveservices5248

LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/company/athena-executive-services/

FREE RESOURCE: Schedule an initial call with Gina: https://athenaexecutiveservices.com/explore-hiring-a-va/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Finding the Right Executive Assistant
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/finding-the-right-executive-assistant/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

If your small business is currently growing, it might be time to professionalize your operations. 

The tools and methods that worked when you started may no longer work for you now that you're expanding. 

Without upgrading your ways of working, your business can fail. Inefficient processes and disorganization can hold you back, allowing the competition to leave you behind. 

So, how do you professionalize your operations?

What are the specific steps to get started?

How does optimizing your systems lead to sustainable success?  

And how do you streamline, standardize, and systematize things the right way? 

In this episode, Whitney Hahn and I discuss professionalizing your business operations; what it means, and why it’s important for growing businesses. She shared strategies for scaling smart and also provided insights on finding your customers and case studies on how to set up your operations for growth.

Whitney Hahn is the CEO of ProvokeBetter.com and a “Business Made Simple” Certified Coach since 2020. She is on a mission to help owner-makers grow their business while OUTgrowing their busy-ness. And guides small businesses through transformative frameworks, earning a reputation as a catalyst for thriving revenue machines. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

01:54 What it means to "professionalize business operations" 

4:51Managing the challenges in scaling business operations 

06:59 Understanding your target market is essential for business success

11:24  Identifying and addressing your customer’s core business problems  

21:36 Professionalizing business operations

25:41 The importance of documenting processes and procedures

26:29 Providing clear guidelines for success  

28:25 Tools to help with optimization

29:24 Avoiding the "busyness trap" 

30:23 Normalize learning from mistakes 

31:58 Case study: Optimizing business operations 

40:48 Actionable step to take to start professionalizing business operations

Resources:

Whitney Hahn, Small Business Advisor and Trainer, ProvokeBetter
https://provokebetter.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneyhahn/

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

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/@provokebetter

Contact:
https://provokebetter.com/contact/

For a free business readiness assessment, visit https://provokebetter.com/help/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Driving Growth with Professionalized Business Operations
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/driving-growth-with-professionalized-business-operations/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Feeling the pressure as your business grows? 

 As you expand, expect to face new hurdles: Your old framework might no longer be the right fit. 

You'll need to build an executive team while streamlining your processes becomes crucial. And what about succession planning? Who takes over the reins when you step back? 

And if that's not enough pressure, you also need to make sure everything keeps running smoothly while managing all these changes.  

If you don't get it right, you can slow down your progress and put the future of your business at risk.

So, how can you handle these challenges and achieve sustainable growth? When's the best time to build an executive team? How do you kickstart succession planning?  Is there a more flexible way to grow? And how can you be sure you're moving in the right direction?

In this episode, Bob Green and I talk about some practical strategies on how you can manage the complex task of growing your business. He shared the importance of adapting your business framework to accommodate growth and how to get your team excited about these changes and how they can help elevate your business to the next level of success.

Bob is the owner of TAB (The Alternative Board) North Shore and has led company growth from the war room to the board room to the conference room, with allies, and it's never been a coincidence.  Instead, he's curated the experiences with people from the launch of a new product or service all the way through post-merger integrations.  He's organized all of these experiences into one process consisting of mindset, accountability and performance with everyone in the company, without exceptions.  The outcome for the company owner is improving company value, while creating a culture of stakeholder value, without anyone having to sacrifice their life to make it happen.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:21 Why do companies often find succession planning challenging?

04:07 The optimal time to start succession planning 

05:19 What are the signs that indicate the need to build an executive team?

07:23 Balancing loyalty and performance within your teams 

09:06 How to build an executive team and internal vs. external recruitment for executive positions 

11:45 How can businesses effectively manage change within their organization?

15:01 Building bridges between departments help with change management 

15:45 Using employee insights to drive innovation when addressing customer needs

17:02 What are the limitations of the EOS framework as a company grows?

23:27 The importance of documented procedures for maintaining consistency during growth

27:22  The next step to take when exploring alternatives to EOS

Resources:
Bob Green, Owner, TAB (The Alternative Board) North Shore 
https://www.thealternativeboard.com/

LinkedIn -
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgreenteams/

Email - 
bob@tabnorthshore.com 

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Overcoming Challenges in Managing Business Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/overcoming-challenges-in-managing-business-growth/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Is your business missing out on valuable customer feedback? 

Without it, you won’t know what they want or even feel about your business.

You’ll be operating in the dark, making decisions based on assumptions rather than data. 

If you’re also not taking the time to do any customer research, you won’t get to know their needs and pain points. This could lead to missed opportunities that will eventually eat into your finances. 

So how do you start doing customer research? 

How do you gather customer feedback?

What questions should you ask to get useful insights?

and how do you use this data to help you make better strategic plans and decisions?

In this episode, Darlene Campagna and I talk about the pivotal role of customer research and feedback in growing a financially healthy and sustainable business. She shared why you should encourage customer engagement because it can positively impact your sales,  marketing, finance, and lead to operational improvements.

Darlene is the Customer Acceleration Consultant and Owner of Direct Opinions. Before that, she spent 11 years working for a national IT consulting company that took its Cleveland operation from approximately $2 million in annual sales to over $27 million in just six years. 

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:42 Why businesses ignore customer research when making strategic plans 

04:47 What it takes to do customer research

05:29 The time and effort required for effective customer research 

11:58 Maintaining a quality contact list for customer outreach 

14:17 Customers segmentation based on customer satisfaction and experiences

16:29 Response rates for customer feedback initiatives

17:50 In-person focus groups versus panel research methods

20:01 The differences between focus groups and panel research 

22:52 Customer response quality via phone versus email surveys 

24:19 Batching question and response processes  in email surveys

27:20 Phone outreach challenges in the modern era

29:14 Examples of operational improvements driven by customer insights 

35:22 Factors that affect a customer's willingness to provide feedback 

37:40 Identifying key stakeholders responsible for customer research initiatives.

40:59 The value of customer feedback when selling your company

44:59 Actionable steps to start customer feedback programs effectively

Resources:
Darlene Campagna,  Customer Acceleration Consultant and Owner, Direct Opinions
https://www.directopinions.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/darlene-campagna-5162515/

LinkedIn | Direct Opinions:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/direct-opinions/about/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/DirectOpinions

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Driving Business Growth Through Effective Customer Feedback
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/driving-business-growth-through-effective-customer-feedback/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Change is part and parcel of running a growing business.

But with change comes resistance, disrupting operations and creating hurdles that can strain your workload and more importantly, your finances.

So what can you do to manage change effectively?

Are there specific steps to take that will guarantee a smooth transition? 

And most importantly, how do you get your team to embrace change positively?

In this episode, Ursula Jorch discusses the essential elements of change management and shares her insights on how you can lead your growing business successfully through these transformational times.

Ursula Jorch is a business coach, speaker, and founder of Work Alchemy. She helps women leaders transform their businesses into profitable agents for change, create global impact, and become recognized as a powerful force for good.

We discuss: (timestamps)

02:18 - What is Change management?

03:32  - Why small businesses struggle with change management

05:37 - Common challenges faced by leaders and clients when managing change 

08:59 - Transitioning from being an operational owner to delegating responsibilities 

13:23 - The difference between formal and informal communications in change management

14:55 - Empowering managers to influence informal conversations positively

16:55 - KPIs to track successful change management implementation 

18:58 - Specific KPIs in a real-world change management scenario 

21:38 - Handling challenges in sales organizations during change  

23:54 - Dealing with negative and positive informal communication

26:22 - Professionalizing the workforce and addressing reactive behavior in small businesses

30:04 - Recognizing signs that employees have embraced change effectively 

31:28 - Actionable tips for easing the pain of change for employees

Resources:
Ursula Jorch, MSc, MEd, Business Coach, Speaker, and Podcast Host, Work Alchemy
http://workalchemy.com/

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ursula-jorch-6a228

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

Twitter
https://twitter.com/ursulajorch

Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/ursula.jorch/

Podcast |  Work Alchemy: The Impact Interviews - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/work-alchemy-the-impact-interviews/id1035446203

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How Effective Change Management Drives Business Success
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-effective-change-managment-drives-business-success/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Struggling with poor performance in your business?  Whether it's employees always running late, missing deadlines, or failing to meet expectations, it’s stressful and will eventually affect your bottom line. 

So, what's causing all the chaos? Is it a communication breakdown? Are there gaps in your onboarding processes? Or are your leaders not stepping up? 

Discovering the root causes of poor performance is key to implementing meaningful changes. 

But how do you identify and address these challenges? 

And what are the steps you need to take to foster a culture of success in your business?

In this episode, Barbara Mason shares her insights on how to identify poor performance and what you need to do to turn it around to protect your growing business.

Barbara Mason is a renowned career coach and HR insider with a passion for helping develop career-oriented teams that will help your business’s growth and workplace culture. She has a remarkable track record in positioning professionals and CEOs for significant business and career growth.

We discuss: (timestamps)

01:50 - Reasons for poor performance in business

04:09 - Employee accountability for performance improvement

06:40 - Addressing the causes of poor performance

08:58 - Managing excuses and repeated performance issues

11:21 - Importance of documentation in performance management

13:17 - Established processes for handling poor performance

15:36 - Dealing with performance issues when there are no clear expectations

17:39 - The impact of hiring and onboarding processes on performance

23:29: - Avoiding micromanagement in improving performance

25:45 - How poor performance affects finances

26:13 - Financial challenges vs performance management

28:48 - Actionable steps to take when addressing an employee performance issue 

Resources:

Barbara Mason, CEO, Career Pathways Consulting
https://careerpathwaysconsulting.com/

LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/company/careerpathwaysconsulting/

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

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

Twitter: 
https://twitter.com/careerpathways7

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Overcoming Employee Performance Issues
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/overcoming-employee-performance-issues/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

When growing your B2B operations, having an effective sales process in place is key.

It serves as a guide for you and your clients - from the initial interest stage until you finally close the deal.

But in B2B operations your sales funnel is more complex. There are more decision-makers, longer sales cycles, and more barriers to sales such as company accreditation or procurement checklists and so on.

If you don't have an effective sales process in place, things can get chaotic really fast.

Without structure, your team gets overwhelmed, leads pile up, you might miss out on weeding the bad leads and deals start to fall through.

So how can you regain control?

What do you need to do to streamline your sales process and safeguard the growth and success of your business?

In this episode, Liz Heiman and I talk about the B2B Sales funnel and how having an effective B2B sales process can really set your business up for success.

Liz is the Sales Operating System Architect and the founder of Regarding Sales. 

She guides “Ready-to-Scale” founders and CEOs to take the chaos out of sales and create a more sustainable growth strategy that strengthens the pipeline and streamlines their process to increase revenue predictably. 

She speaks to entrepreneurs, CEOs, and sales leaders about taking the chaos out of sales and creating a more sustainable growth strategy that strengthens the pipeline and streamlines the process to increase revenue predictably.

We discuss: (timestamps)

03:02 - Real-world chaotic scenarios in B2B sales funnels

04:06 - The four key stages of B2B sales funnels 

08:59 - The challenges of B2B sales funnel stages

12:34 - KPIs to monitor B2B sales funnel performance

15:56 - Balancing quantity vs. quality in B2B prospecting

18:58 - Addressing sales and marketing misalignment

21:12 - Optimizing your CRM setup for effective sales tracking

25:35 - The role of buyer personas

34:53 - Actionable steps to take to streamline your B2B sales processes

Resources:
Liz Heimann, CEO & Chief Sales Strategist, Regarding Sales:
https://www.regardingsales.com/

LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizheiman/

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

Schedule a call: 
https://calendly.com/regardingsales/intro

Email: 
info@regardingsales.com

Download the Free Sales Funnel PDF from Liz: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aM8rTHzjBReD9rY4AZzG0XFSTN5MkSt9/view?usp=drive_link

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Building an Effective B2B Sales Process
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/building-an-effective-b2b-sales-process/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

In tough times, many businesses feel the urge to cut back on marketing spending.

But what's the potential downside?

Your brand might start to fade away, missing chances to connect with customers and falling behind the competition.

Marketing isn't just about letting the world know about your business. 

It's also a powerful tool to control your business. It directly affects your cash flow and drives your bottom line.

So, how do you make sure your marketing budget is working as hard as possible to meet your customer's needs and to grow your business?

In this episode, Sean Doyle discusses the importance of effective marketing spend and its direct impact on business finances. He shares insights on optimizing resources for growth and reaching customers closer to “cash” or conversion.

Sean is the principal at FitzMartin Inc., a leading consultancy focused on sales marketing and management, sales and marketing technology services, and revenue operations. 

Sean and his team at FitzMartin are focused on long-term value creation through a sales-first, scientific approach to driving revenue. 

Over a 25+ year career and more than 5,000 client engagements, Sean has amassed unmatched expertise in helping B2B companies sell more to their most profitable customers.

We discuss: (timestamps)

2:12 The significance of optimizing marketing spend rather than cutting it

2:37 Impact of Marketing Strategies on Financial Performance

10:00 The "speed to cash" mindset

Focusing marketing efforts on target groups close to making purchases

13:04 Marketing as a business tool, not just a creative or communications tool

13:38 Understanding business objectives is crucial for effective marketing

16:52 Hiring and Building a Strategic Marketing Team

23:36 Marketing budget based on top-line revenues or some variant of EBITDA

30:50 One actionable step to take to fine-tune your marketing

31:22 Centricity: Putting the buyer at the center of everything a company does

Resources:

Sean Doyle, Author, Speaker, and Advisor, FitzMartin Inc
https://seanmdoyle.com/
https://fitzmartin.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/fitzmartin/

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

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/FitzMartinb2b

Email:
sean@fitzmartin.com

Author :
Shift: 19 Practical, Business-Driven Ideas for an Executive in Charge of Marketing but Not Trained for the Task by Sean Doyle
https://www.amazon.com/Shift-Practical-Business-Driven-Executive-Marketing/dp/1605440574

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Transforming Marketing Spend into Business Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/transforming-marketing-spend-into-business-growth/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

If you have a customer-centric business, it means your customers are at the heart of everything you do.

And this is a good thing because happy customers equals a thriving business.

But sadly, many small businesses struggle to make this happen beyond their team members on the front lines.

And this is a problem since customer satisfaction is crucial to your success.

So what do you need to do to make your business truly customer-centric?

What exactly does being customer-centric entail?

And how can you encourage this mindset across your entire organization?

In this episode, our guest Chris Hood offers actionable advice on building a customer-centric business. He shares how to implement it in your business to help it grow financially healthy and successful in the long run.

Chris is a keynote speaker, strategist, and thought leader in customer-centric cultures, artificial intelligence, and innovation. 

He boasts over three decades of experience in business development and is the author of 'Customer Transformation,' where he provides a roadmap to customer alignment and business value, articulating a transformative seven-stage strategy. 

As the Founder and CEO of Synsible AI, Chris spends his time helping businesses leverage AI and reach 10x thinking.

We discuss: 

02:07 - Developing a customer-centric environment in your business

04:33 - Growing a customer-centric mindset in non-customer-facing departments 

11:18 - Chris Hood’s customer-centric framework for your business

14:27 - Companies that excel in being customer-centric

18:02 - Implementing Customer-centric activities in your business

21:03 - The differences between small and large businesses in becoming more customer-centric

25:22 - Real-life examples of customer inclusion done right

29:04 - Analyzing the root causes of why customer-centricity is a challenge for many businesses

30:33 - Debunking the Customer is Always Right Myth

35:41 - Actionable steps to take to become a customer-centric business

Resources:
Chris Hood, Digital Strategist, Podcast Host and Author:
https://chrishood.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrishood/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/chrishood1

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/chrishood

Author of Customer Transformation
https://chrishood.com/product/customer-transformation-hardcover-book/?swcfpc=1

Podcast | The Chris Hood Digital Show 
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-chris-hood-digital-show/id1671355874

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Become a Customer-Centric Business - and Why It Matters
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-become-a-customer-centric-business-and-why-it-matters/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Ever found yourself drowning in the tedium and mundane tasks of running a business, wondering if there's a way to escape and get your life back? 

What if we told you that, "Yes! there is a way!"  And that it's absolutely possible to lead a fulfilled life while working fewer hours, whether you're managing one successful business or multiple ventures.

Does it sound too good to be true? It's not!  

In this episode, our guest Jeff Russell shares his journey of building multiple thriving businesses across different industries.

He brings his businesses to new heights of success through a combination of strategic hiring, implementing systems and processes, and mindful business evaluation. 

His insights and experiences are gold and will help you sidestep getting lost in the relentless hustle and busyness so you can live the life you want while building the business of your dreams. 

Jeff Russell, is a best-selling author, renowned speaker, and accomplished entrepreneur. As the founder of many successful businesses and author of his latest book, ‘Fire Yourself First,’ Jeff is an expert in helping business owners break free from the daily grind. 

We discuss: 

02:27 Introduction to Jeff Russell

07:17 The differences between organizational charts and role charts

09:39 Jeff’s shared service model for marketing, financial management, and operational roles

14:43 Why stepping back from day-to-day operations to focus on long-term strategy is vital

18:15 Transitioning from owner-operators to true owners by implementing systems & processes

24:47 Jeff's 11-step hiring process outlined in his book "Fire Yourself First"

33:58 Importance of reading, listening to podcasts, and attending conferences for self-education

39:34 Actionable steps to be like Jeff: not just an owner operator but a true owner

Resources:

Jeff Russell Best-Selling Author, Speaker, Serial Entrepreneur, and CEO, Oakridge Financial Group
https://www.fireyourselffirst.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejeffrussell/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088397692719

Twitter:
https://www.twitter.com/jeffrussellsays

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

Author of “Fire Yourself First”:
https://www.fireyourselffirst.com/book-jeff

Other Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Dan Sullivan:
https://www.strategiccoach.com/

Storybrand:
https://storybrand.com/

Dawn Fotopulos:  Accounting for the Number Phobic
https://www.amazon.com/Accounting-Numberphobic-Survival-Business-Owners-ebook/dp/B00KVO2C4W

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Fire Yourself First: Jeff Russell's Guide to Successfully Growing Your Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/fire-yourself-first-jeff-russells-guide-to-successfully-growing-your-business/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Handling HR investigations can be a potential minefield for any business, especially those that are smaller but currently growing. 

It’s natural to feel overwhelmed when faced with employee complaints, wrongful termination claims, or accusations of workplace bullying and harassment. 

Yet these investigations matter because they can make or break your business. 

If resolved successfully, they'll protect your business and your employees.

If you ignore or mishandle them, it could cause you legal problems and harm your reputation. 

So, how do you work your way through HR investigations without making costly mistakes? 

Are there steps to take to ensure you're protected?

Who do you call for help? 

And how can you resolve them professionally? 

In this episode, our guest Jill Avey shines a light on HR investigations, and what are some strategies for managing complaints, when to seek legal advice and how you can protect your business through HR documentation and processes.  

Jill Avey is the founder and owner of Southwestern HR Consulting, Inc. (SWHRC) and has more than 25 years of business expertise in Human Resources (HR). 

We discuss:

03:46 What are HR investigations

06:46 The differences between the EEOC and the Department of Labor

07:35 Potential consequences for overlooking employee concerns

10:14 Common small business employee claims that lead to HR investigations

14:46 The ideal timing to create an employee handbook

15:28 The importance of policies and handbooks for contractors and 1099 workers

19:45 Resolution options for contractors with complaints

2352 What actions are permissible for employees and independent contractors

30:22 The steps to take to address accusations of wrongful termination

34:14: Mediation is typically more cost-effective than proceeding with an actual lawsuit

37:58 Recommended actions when your business lacks HR expertise

41:11 Actionable steps to take to protect your business from HR investigations.

Resources:

Jill Avey, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Owner, Southwestern HR Consulting, Inc.

https://swhrc.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-avey-sphr-shrm-scp-3910642a/

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

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/SoWeHRConsult

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

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | The Impact of HR Investigations in Small Businesses
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/the-impact-of-hr-investigations-in-small-businesses/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Have you ever had that nagging feeling that you don't measure up?

Do you live in constant fear that your success is just a fluke? 

Are you worried you'll be unmasked as someone without a clue what they're doing?

It's the relentless struggle known as Imposter Syndrome, and it's something that even the most successful entrepreneurs suffer from.

Imposter Syndrome doesn't discriminate. It haunts people in their personal and professional lives, sabotaging confidence and stifling potential. 

But what is it exactly? 

What triggers it? 

Why - however irrational and false it is - does it affect so many of us? 

And, most importantly, how do we beat it? 

In this episode, our guest Andy Hite shares how you can help yourself - and others in your team - break free from the iron-like claws of Imposter Syndrome and unleash your full potential. He'll also provide actionable steps to foster a culture of growth, learning, and resilience in your business.

Andy Hite is a recognized leadership coach who supports entrepreneurs, executives, and their teams as they navigate the world of building lives and businesses filled with prosperity, meaning, & freedom.

We discuss:

02:48  What is imposter syndrome, and why do so many people struggle with it?  

04:08 The importance of celebrating wins and accomplishments  

06:58 Effective techniques that help beat imposter syndrome  

08:35 How can people overcome their fear of taking courageous actions?  

12:19  Other tools for assisting individuals dealing with imposter syndrome

13:33 The differences between therapy and coaching

15:53 How to lead effectively and help  team members overcome imposter syndrome 

17:20 What is a Leadership 360 assessment

20:05  The relationship between imposter syndrome and resistance to feedback

21:02 The challenges of managing someone with imposter syndrome 

22:20 The differences between leadership and coaching   

23:40  Tips and tricks to help leaders become better coaches to their teams  

25:22 Fostering a culture that allows short-term pain for long-term gain

29:30 Actionable steps to create a culture that values learning from mistakes

Resources:

Andy Hite, Executive and Entrepreneur Coach, and Leadership Expert

Website: 
https://www.andyhitecoaching.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-hite

Email:
andy@andyhitecoaching.com

For exclusive resources for listeners of this podcast:
https://www.scalingminds.com/hmbg

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Overcoming Imposter Syndrome as a Business Owner
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/overcoming-imposter-syndrome-as-a-business-owner/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

While HubSpot has many features, it can also seem overwhelming. With so much going on, it’s hard to know where to start or how to make the most of it. 

And if you're not careful, you can easily get bogged down in all the (helpful) bells and whistles and lose sight of your overall goals.

So, what exactly is HubSpot? 

Why do businesses love it? 

What makes it different from other CRM platforms? 

And how do you go about implementing it into your business?

In this episode, my guest Jenelle McGrath and I break down all things HubSpot, including discussing its versatile features and the benefits it can bring. She also shares her insights on making the most of its capabilities and offers valuable tips for those considering integrating it into their growing business.

We discuss:

03:22 Who are the ideal customers for HubSpot's marketing automation platform?

04:12 How companies benefit from HubSpot 

10:56 Common challenges when implementing HubSpot

13:24 Reasons small businesses migrate to HubSpot

14:55 HubSpot's role in streamlining hiring and recruitment

18:55 Utilizing HubSpot for employee onboarding

22:12 Different types of hubs available in HubSpot

23:19 Measuring leads, revenue, and SEO impact with HubSpot campaigns

26:37 Best practices for effective data tracking in HubSpot

31:35 Key factors for successful HubSpot training, including ownership, certification, and training resources

34:34 Effective training schedules and timelines for teams adopting HubSpot

36:48 Common mistakes made by sales and marketing teams after migrating to HubSpot

38:31 Actionable steps to take to prepare for HubSpot migration

Resources:

Jennelle McGrath, CEO, Inbound Sales and Marketing Growth Agency Partner, Market Veep

Website:
https://www.marketveep.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennellemcgrath/

Free Resources:
https://www.marketveep.com/marketing-ebooks-webinars

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Successfully Implement HubSpot
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-successfully-implement-hubspot/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

The art of naming may seem secondary to finances and operations, but it's incredibly important because your name can make or break your brand.

So how do you choose the right name? 

What are the methods or surefire hacks to create one that clicks?

How do you craft a name that leaves a lasting impression and attracts customers?

What's the secret to unlocking naming success? And how do you ensure that this process becomes the foundation for your long-term success?

In this episode, my guest Alexandra Watkins and I take a deep dive into the world of naming. She shares her tips on creating the perfect name, including how to brainstorm and the common mistakes to avoid when choosing the right name.

Alexandra is a leading and outspoken authority on brand names with buzz.  Her breakthrough creativity book, “Hello, My Name is Awesome: How to Create Brand Names That Stick,” was named a Top 10 Marketing Book by Inc. Magazine. 

We discuss:

03:42  When naming a brand or business, don't prioritize matching URLs over relevant keywords to avoid confusion and unconventional spellings.

08:20 Choose names that are easy to spell, pronounce, and remember.

09:17  The S.M.I.L.E process for choosing winning names

11:12 Leverage previous knowledge, imagery, themes, and emotions to craft names.

13:52 Brainstorm for names using various techniques to jumpstart your creativity.

16:52 Multiple rounds of feedback and trademark screening are part of every name selection process.

20:55 Trademark your brand names to prevent conflicts, regardless of how long you've used the name.

21:54  Ownership of trademarks, as seen with Xerox and Kimberly Clark, offers consumer brand protection.

24:07 The S.C.R.A.T.C.H Process for Rejecting Names

29:52 Choose names that allow for future growth and changes in your business.

31:53 Be aware of the "curse of knowledge" when naming anything and prioritize clear, pronounceable names.

36:56 Pronunciation and spelling are pivotal in naming to avoid ambiguity.

38:03 Actionable Steps to Selecting the Perfect Business Name

Resources:

Alexandra Watkins, Founder and Chief Innovation Officer, Eat My Words

Website:
https://eatmywords.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrawatkins/

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/eatmywords

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

Free Test in Naming Your Brand:
SMILE & SCRATCH Name Evaluation Test

Free Brand Names Mini Masterclass

How To Create Super Sticky Brand Names Online Course

Other resources in this episode:
Episode 62 - Protecting Intellectual Property in Service-Based Businesses
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/protecting-intellectual-property-in-service-based-businesses/

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Make a Business Name Memorable
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-make-a-business-name-memorable/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Sales can get complicated, especially for smaller or rapidly growing companies. Your sales process might seem like a maze, and disorganized data only makes it worse. Losing potential customers is frustrating and puts pressure on meeting targets. 

So how do you build or streamline your sales process? Where do you find the right sales talent?  And most importantly, how can you ensure this process becomes the foundation for your long-term success?

In this episode, our guest Dan Fantasia provides expert insights and actionable strategies to conquer these sales challenges head-on. He’ll also help unlock the potential of your sales team to ensure your business's continued growth and financial stability.  

Dan Fantasia has been in the field of sales recruiting since 1997 and founded Treeline in 2001. His exclusive focus on helping companies build world-class, elite sales teams has helped to change the lives of over 3,300 sales professionals. 

We discuss:

03:54 The Need for a Clear Sales Process before hiring salespeople.

06:46 What to Look for When Hiring Salespeople

08:27 Breaking down the 30, 60, and 90-day business plan/roadmap for success accountability.  

11:29 The difference between B2B and B2C salespeople

14:40 Onboarding Your Salespeople to Understand Your Core Customers

15:50 Focus on essential sales skills rather than technology when onboarding salespeople.

25:18 New sales hires should be held accountable to metrics but be flexible because adjusting takes time.

30:19 Prioritizing Sales Pipeline and Forecast Management for New Hires

31:02 Establish a sales process with set rules and accountability to ensure your sales reps are truthful. 

33:39 Actionable step

Resources:

Dan Fantasia, President and CEO, Treeline, Inc.

Website:
https://www.treelineinc.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danfantasia/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/treelineinc

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/DanFantasia

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/TreelineInc

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

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How to Hire Top Sales People for Your Growing Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-to-hire-top-sales-people-for-your-growing-business/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Intellectual property is a vital business asset that needs protection. It includes all your ideas, creations, products/services that drive growth. 

If you don't protect your intellectual property (IP), you risk competitors stealing or copying what you do, which could lead to lost revenue. 

The digital age has further complicated matters. It is now very easy to accidentally copy someone else's work, thanks to the rise of AI and automation that continue to blur the lines between innovation and imitation. 

But what is intellectual property exactly? 

Where do you start protecting what you own? 

How do you know when to use a copyright, license or trademark?  

And how can you use your intellectual "assets" to increase your sales and achieve business success?

In this episode, our guest Erin Austin breaks down all aspects of intellectual property, its different categories, how to use them and how to start protecting your creations. She also shares tips and insights on using your IP assets to help propel your business forward.

We discuss:

03:55 The difference between copyright, trademarks, trade secrets, and patents.

08:06  How copyrights work

10:05 The enforceability of copyrights

12:19 AI-generated content and copyright laws

14:04 Establishing the legal status of derivatives from your original copyrighted work

15:03 Identifying the rightful owner of copyright for AI-generated content

20:35 Exploring the distinction between "R" and "TM" in trademarks

22:56 Evaluating how long and what to consider when applying for copyrights/trademarks

27:47 Presenting individuals who leveraged IP to transform their businesses

31:05 Understanding the role of licensing, alongside copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets

33:49 Examining the current models for licensing, including ongoing payments and fixed-term arrangements

35:59 How to get started on protecting your business intellectual property

Resources:

Erin Austin, IP Expert and Attorney, Think Beyond IP

Website:
https://www.thinkbeyondip.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinaustin/

Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVztXnDYnZ83oIb-EGX9IGA/videos

Twitter:
https://twitter.com/ErinAustinLaw

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Protecting Intellectual Property in Service-Based Businesses
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/protecting-intellectual-property-in-service-based-businesses/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Every business faces challenges as it grows. And to manage these challenges, more and more owners are embracing EOS – the Entrepreneurial Operating System.

EOS isn't your usual business guide; it's a complete system that aligns everyone in the company. 

This alignment is crucial because businesses with a united (and accountable) team tend to be more profitable and financially secure.

EOS encourages every team member, from top to bottom, to think like an entrepreneur. 

This collective mindset keeps the bigger picture in mind and drives the company forward. 

But how can EOS make this happen? 

How does it work?

And how do you implement it in your company?

In this episode, our guest Rebecca Finken and I discuss EOS 101: what it is, what it offers, and how it works. She also shares the steps you can take to get started and apply the EOS system in your business.

Rebecca Finken is a Professional EOS Implementer with EOS Worldwide, boasting nearly 30 years of experience as an entrepreneur. She resides in both Las Vegas and Prescott Arizona. 

We discuss:

04:36 What is EOS and who is it for

06:29 EOS Implementation Steps and Process

09:03 EOS common terms and their definitions

10:34 How to Implement EOS for Business Growth

12:57 Dealing with employees reluctant to make EOS-implemented changes

16:03 EOS tools (eg the people-analyzer) that are useful for businesses

18:59 Breaking down the EOS Accountability Chart

21:23 Managing culture shifts due to EOS 

23:20 Measuring Employee Accountability with EOS

29:51 Falling off the EOS process

31:51 The various meeting formats of EOS and their importance

36:41 The next actionable step to take in the next week or 2 to implement EOS

Resources:

Rebecca Finken, Professional EOS Implementer, EOS Worldwide

Website:
https://eosworldwide.com/rebecca-finken

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-finken-1891a6192/


Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Achieving Business Growth with EOS
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/achieving-business-growth-with-eos/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Press releases aren't just words on paper.  When done right, they can capture media attention, expand your audiences, and fuel business growth.

But how do you begin?

What do you talk about?

Will anyone listen?

How can you create press releases that grab both readers and journalists?

And once you've told your story, how do you share it with the world?

In this episode, Mickie Kennedy and I explore the potential of press releases for small business owners.  He'll walk us through why they are important, share tricks on crafting content that will resonate with your target audience and the media, and provide actionable steps to get your story out there.

Mickie Kennedy is an expert at helping small businesses, authors, and startups increase their visibility and credibility. 24 years ago, Mickie founded eReleases after realizing that small businesses desperately need a press release service they can afford. 

We discuss:

03:10 What falls under the umbrella of PR

04:00 Effective Press Releases for Small Businesses

07:01 How to get your press releases out in the media

08:40 Creating Compelling Press Release Content

16:22  Steps to Producing and Distributing Press Releases

22:16 The media pick-up time frame for a press release to be considered a success

23:42 The cost implications of press releases or syndicating content 

27:14 The standard, most effective press release length

28:07 Samples of major press release fails 

35:00 The next actionable step that small businesses can take within the next 2 weeks to create effective press releases.

Resources:

Mickie Kennedy
PR Expert, Press Release Ninja, Media Relations Networker
eReleases

Website:
https://www.ereleases.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/publicity/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ereleases.press.release.distribution

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How Press Releases Build Buzz and Grow Your Small Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/listen/how-press-releases-build-buzz-and-grow-your-small-business/

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Sustaining a business becomes challenging as labor costs rise, especially in the service industry, where people play a central role.

You must keep your eye on your bottom line but also prioritize your employees' well-being. 

So how do you strike this balance? Through labor efficiency, or making the most of your workforce's talents, time, and resources to get things done smarter and faster. 

But what is labor efficiency exactly?

How does it work?

How do you implement it successfully?

And how can it give your business the kick it needs to grow and thrive? 

In today's episode, Herb Cogliano and I discuss labor efficiency - what it is, why you need it, and how it can make a positive impact on your business operations. He shares tips and strategies on how you can make it a part of your growing business. 

Herb Cogliano leads his own advisory practice leveraging the Scaling Up Performance Platform, described in Verne Harnish's award-winning book, Mastering the Rockefeller Habits-Scaling Up.

As an International Business Coach, experienced CEO Scaling Up Practitioner, and Professor of the Scaling Up Masters Business Course, he has learned firsthand what it takes to overcome many business challenges. 

Herb is pursuing his passion for working with leaders of growth companies to achieve more freedom by helping them create industry-leading strategies, a culture of accountability, flawless execution, and a healthy cash flow within their organizations.

We discuss:

03:30 What is labor efficiency and why is it important for any business?

05:01 Understanding labor efficiency as ROI on people and their impact on financial returns.

06:40 Revenue-producing labor and back-office support labor (or direct and indirect labor) in the labor efficiency equation explained.

11:30 Exploring the connection between labor efficiency and operating profit: Improving labor efficiency leads to higher profits.

15:37 Boosting labor efficiency strategies such as increasing team size, improving processes, and optimizing service delivery.  

18:16 Defining A, B, and C players using talent assessment and evaluating employees by rehiring and core values.

23:47 Using tools and scaling up principles can create a positive work environment for employees.

27:09 The evolution of purpose and values in creating a successful business.

29:45 Actionable and manageable next steps to improve labor efficiency and operating profits.

Resources:

Herb Cogliano, International Business Growth Advisor & Certified Scaling Up Coach, Aspire Growth Advisors:
https://www.aspiregrowthadvisors.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hcogliano

Email:
herb@aspiregrowthadvisors.com

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Maximizing Labor Efficiency for Your Growing Business
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/post/maximizing-labor-efficiency-for-your-growing-business

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Dealing with a messy desk while running a growing business? It can seriously get in the way of your productivity. Staying on top of your game becomes a struggle when things are scattered, lost, and disorganized.

Beyond the mess, a cluttered workspace disrupts focus, clarity, and completing tasks essential for business growth. Distractions multiply, stress builds up, and finding what you need becomes a scavenger hunt that eats your valuable time.

So, where do you start taking charge of the clutter?

What practical systems can you adopt to restore order while managing your business?

And how can you consistently maintain a clean and organized workspace?

In today's episode, Gayle Gruenberg and I discuss practical strategies to reclaim control over your workspace. We share tips for tackling clutter, implementing organizational systems, and maintaining a productive environment while managing your growing business. 

Gayle is the chief executive organizer of Let’s Get Organized, an award-winning Bergen County, New Jersey organizing company. Gayle helps people living with chronic disorganization declutter and maintain organizing systems. She is a certified professional organizer in chronic disorganization, a certified virtual professional organizer, and an organizer coach.

We discuss:

02:37 Start small when clearing up clutter. The feeling of accomplishment will help build momentum.

03:34 Use categories and subcategories to help organize information visually, then sort and discard items as needed.

08:27 Establish criteria for keeping important papers so you can let go of unnecessary items.

13:00 Prioritize proximity and importance when organizing books and supplies in smaller workspaces.

18:29 Refresh your workspace with foundational pieces, intentionally placing inspiring items and finding new homes for others.

20:20 Creating an ideal workspace is an ongoing feedback, evaluation, and refinement process.

26:40 To get closer to a productive workspace, start organizing. That first step will naturally lead to progress and transformation. 

Resources:

Gayle Gruenberg, CPO-CD®, CVPO™, CEO, Let’s Get Organized:
https://lgorganized.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylegruenberglgo

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

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

Youtube: 
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3mTqnTaJ_ZG4BlzOJjvN4A

Podcast | Make Space for Blessings
https://anchor.fm/gayle-gruenberg%20

Author: 

• Let's Get Organized!: Quick Organizing Tips for Seasons and Holidays
• Let's Get Organized!: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Chronic Disorganization (CD)

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Increasing Productivity Through an Organized Workspace
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/post/increasing-productivity-through-an-organized-workspace

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Construction is a challenging industry where human creativity works magic, turning engineering and architectural plans into actual structures. 

And while they make building something easy from the ground up, hidden beneath the surface lies a maze of intricate project management complexities that you won't find in other industries.

With so many moving parts and a heavy reliance on subcontractors, success requires skillful coordination of teams, schedules, and resources. 

So what can you do to ensure success in this industry that demands effective management of both people and processes?

In today's episode, John Glover and I explore the complexities within the construction industry and break down the project and people management success strategies that you can also use for your business.

John Glover is a Small Business Coach, Fractional COO and Integrator, Personal Growth Consultant, and founder of Core Integration Coaching. 

He helps entrepreneurs, business partners, organizations, and individuals develop a roadmap to get what they want from their business and their life. 

As a passionate coach and facilitator, he's helped many set strategic goals, develop customized plans, and execute more effectively to obtain their desired results. 

We discuss:

03:54 Managing people in construction is challenging without proper processes and communication.

05:47 Establishing core values is crucial for a company's moral compass and identifying ideal employees.

08:12 Use an accountability chart, define roles, align values, and communicate clearly to avoid issues.

14:17 The steps to prevent mistakes and misquotes that can affect your profitability.

16:35 Small business owners need to delegate responsibility.

19:23 Small businesses benefit from the EOS platform when addressing major issues by implementing regular meetings, setting clear expectations, and having an effective onboarding process.

30:15  Build supplier relationships by aligning core values via due diligence and clear communications.

32:53 Vet subcontractors, like employees, assess if they're the proper fit through (legitimate) testimonials and address any issues quickly. 

39:02 Accountability provides a framework that balances structure and autonomy, allowing individuals to thrive and solve problems within boundaries.

42:14 Creating a strong people process with a structured onboarding system is crucial to help you find, train and keep the right employees and drive growth and success.

Resources:

John Glover, Coach, Fractional COO & Integrator, Core Integration Coaching:
https://coreintegrationcoaching.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-glover

Schedule a Discovery Call with John:
https://coreintegrationcoaching.com/contact-me

Email:
john@coreintegrationcoaching.com

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Industry Deep Dive - Construction: How to Effectively Manage Subcontractors Using EOS
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/post/industry-deep-dive-construction-how-to-effectively-manage-subcontractors-using-eos

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Does your workplace resemble a battlefield where no one collaborates, communication constantly breaks down, and productivity takes a hit?

Are your people more invested in politicking, one-upmanship, and other internal conflicts than driving the business forward?

If this sounds familiar, it's a sign that your business is grappling with dysfunctional team dynamics where power struggles, lack of trust, and poor communication make success a challenge. 

But what leads to this dysfunction in the first place?

How does it impact the growth and the financial well-being of your business?

And how can you overcome this dysfunction to cultivate a healthier and more productive work environment?

In today's episode, Zach Montroy and I address workplace dysfunction and its impact on your business. We'll share practical strategies to restore collaboration, boost productivity, and improve your team's well-being, helping you maintain steady growth.

Zach is the Founder and CEO of The Intention Collective and a leadership team coach with over 20 years of experience in executive roles. 

Zach’s passion for helping leaders expand their impact and build trust has led him to focus on helping entrepreneurs scale and grow their businesses. 

As a sought-after speaker and podcast guest, Zach is known for his ability to distill complex concepts into actionable insights that help businesses achieve their goals.  

With a deep understanding of the importance of both strategy and culture in achieving sustainable growth, Zach helps companies create high-functioning, high-

impact organizations through his innovative approach to leadership.

We discuss:

02:40 Prioritizing healthy team dynamics leads to business growth because healthy teams produce good outcomes while neglecting team wellbeing leads to burnout and frequent turnovers. 

7:29 Cultural issues often stem from the lack of trust and courage, and the resulting dysfunction can lead to back-channeling, politicking, fear, shame, blame, gossip, favoritism, and nostalgia for the "good old days.

10:36 Leaders need trust, courage, and healthy boundaries to confront difficult facts within their team and to build a healthy work culture.

15:43 Leaders should apologize when wrong, create a healthy feedback mirror, prioritize clear communications, and explain their decision-making processes to build trust with their team.

20:25 Evaluate work success along the way, not just at the end, using "mile markers" and feedback.

24:25 Receiving feedback is a skill that can be learned, requiring curiosity and a willingness to become vulnerable.

32:08 Cultivate a healthier team dynamic by reassessing core values, aligning them with your desired culture, and examining and refining your existing habits.

Resources:

Zach Montroy, People, Team & Organizational Strategist, Founder & CEO, The Intention Collective:
https://www.intentioncollective.co/

LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharymontroy/

Email: 
Zach@IntentionCollective.co

Books Mentioned:

1. John Gottman: What Makes Love Last?: How to Build Trust and Avoid Betrayal 
2. Brené Brown: Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone
3. Jim Collins: Beyond Entrepreneurship 2.0: Turning Your Business into an Enduring Great Company
4. Kim Scott: Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Overcoming Workplace Dysfunction 
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/post/overcoming-workplace-dysfunction

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

Growing your business is no easy feat, especially when faced with intense competition. With numerous players fighting tooth and nail for the same customer base, it's easy to fade into obscurity. 

However, there's a game-changing strategy that many businesses fail to consider: Challenger Branding. This approach allows you to carve out a distinct brand identity and differentiate yourself from competitors.

But what exactly is challenger branding? 

Will it work for a small business?

And how can you harness your company culture to maximize its impact? 

Mike Sullivan is the President and CEO of LOOMIS, the country’s leading challenger brand advertising agency. For more than 30 years, he’s helped some of the country’s most successful companies build their brands. He is also the author of the book "The Voice of the Underdog: How Challenger Brands Create Distinction by Thinking Culture First" 

We discuss:

02:03 What are Challenger brands

4:36 The importance of having radical clarity about your values on your brand positioning

9:50 The pros and cons of getting branding experts to help position your business 

12:06 Why culture drives your brand and is crucial for its success

15:44  How leadership development improves culture and helps organizations become great places to work. 

21:09 Why creating a stakeholder-oriented culture is key to building a successful company, according to conscious capitalism principles.

30:57 The steps, process, and insights to consider when transitioning into a challenger brand 

36:05 The first actionable step to take in the next week or two to get started on building a challenger brand

Resources:

Mike Sullivan, President, and CEO, LOOMIS:
https://theloomisagency.com

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesullivanatloomis/

Email:
Mike.sullivan@theloomisagency.com

Author of The Voice of the Underdog: How Challenger Brands Create Distinction by Thinking

Other Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Eating the Big Fish: How Challenger Brands Can Compete Against Brand Leaders:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Eating-Big-Fish-Challenger-Compete/dp/0470238275

David B Wolfe, Rajendra Sisodia, Jagdish Sheth: Firms of Endearment: How World-Class Companies Profit from Passion and Purpose:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Firms-Endearment-World-Class-Companies-Passion/dp/0133382591

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | How Using Challenger Branding Accelerates Business Growth
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/post/how-using-challenger-branding-accelerates-business-growth

Is your growth causing financial headaches? Sales up, but profits lagging? Financial practices stuck in entry level mode?

Don't worry, it's not you—it's your financial setup.

Introducing NextGen Finance Blueprint by NewCastle Finance. This CFO-led roadmap: • Brings fuzzy finances into focus • Gives you a clear money picture • Creates a step-by-step action plan

Ready to level up? Visit newcastle.finance/blueprint

As a small business owner, the last thing you want to worry about is a cybersecurity breach that could potentially ruin your business. 

But what do you do if you've already been attacked and your systems are taken hostage? 

Do you pay the ransom?

Do you ignore them and start again from scratch? 

Do you find a friendly yet quirky hacker to help you take the thieves down like in the movies?

What can you do to protect your data and save your company? 

In today's episode, our guest Bryant Tow and I discuss the importance of cybersecurity, how to respond if your systems are compromised, and steps you can take to safeguard your business from cyber threats. 

Bryant is the Chief Security Officer at Leapfrog Services. For over 25 years, Bryant has held responsibilities as an entrepreneur and senior executive in all aspects of risk management, including thought leadership in cyber security, award-winning development of security solutions, and managing large global cyber and physical security teams. 

He has also held executive leadership positions in multinational consulting firms and has been involved in several startups. Recently, he was the Chief Security Officer for CSC’s Financial Services Group and was responsible for securing 143 applications in 52 countries.

Bryant’s leadership positions across the security industry include the Department of Homeland Security Sector Coordinating Council, ISSA, and ISACA, and as a board member and vice president of InfraGard National Members Alliance. 

He is recognized as a Distinguished Fellow by the Ponemon Institute, the industry’s leading research organization.

He has also published several books and articles on cybersecurity topics and has received several awards, including the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security Award for Exceptional Contribution in Recognition of Outstanding Support of Tennessee’s Counter Terrorism Program.

We discuss:

02:00 The sources of cybersecurity breaches in small businesses are almost always found within their processes and policies 

06:03 Preparing for Cyber Extinction: The Incident Response Process

12:52 Why small businesses need to have set Incident Response Plans in place

14:31 How to create a Cybersecurity Plan for your small business

18:57 Should a company under attack pay or not pay ransomware? 

22:53 The importance of having "backdoors" set to ensure your company's cybersecurity 

25:34 Weak admin passwords are often the reason or "smoking gun" for security breaches 

27:04 The benefits - and pitfalls - of password managers

34:10 Immediate and Actionable steps to take to build a strong cybersecurity foundation

39:14 How understanding your business needs and processes can save you money on cybersecurity investments

Resources:

Bryant G. Tow, Chief Security Officer, Author, and Speaker of Leapfrog Services:
https://leapfrogservices.com/

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanttow/

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

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

Email:
Bryant.Tow@LeapfrogServices.com

Kathy Svetina, Fractional CFO:
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/

Blog post | Cybersecurity Essentials for Small Businesses
https://www.newcastlefinance.us/post/cybersecurity-essentials-for-small-businesses