The Small Business Mindset

Epizódy

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  155 - The Smart Way to Use AI in Your business 15.07.2026 14min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! Artificial Intelligence isn't here to replace great business owners - it's here to make them better! In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory shares a practical approach to using AI to create a better customer experience while keeping the human connection at the center of your business.  Instead of fearing automation, learn how to leverage AI to save time, improve communication, build stronger customer relationships, and ultimately increase sales. The businesses that win won't be the ones using the most AI.  They'll be the ones using AI to create more meaningful interactions. In this episode you'll learn: Why AI should enhance, not replace, the customer experience How first impressions online determine whether customers choose you The importance of acknowledging customers immediately Why collecting your own customer data is more valuable than social media followers How AI can automate lead generation and customer communication Creating a sales funnel that nurtures prospects without addint more work The importance of fast, reliable follow-up Why integrity matters in every customer interaction How to use customer feedback to improve your sales process The one thing AI can never replace: your personal story and passion Why authenticity is still your greatest competitive advantage Key Takeaways: AI is a tool - not a strategy The best use of AI is creating systems that: 1) welcome new customers 2) capture valuable customer information 3) automate repetitive tasks 4) speed up communication 5) give business owners more time to build genuine relationships Technology can start the conversation, but people close the sale Customers buy from businesses they trust, and trust is built through authenticity, consistency, and follow through Action Steps: This week, audit your customer journey by asking yourself: How quickly do I acknowledge new leads? Am I collecting customer data that I actually own? Is my follow-up process timely and consistent? Does my online messaging match the experience customers receive when they talk to me? Where can AI save me time so I can spend more time building relationships? Choose one area to automate this week while keeping your psersonal touch front and center. Connect with Kirsten Flory Instagram Facebook LinkedIn If this episode inspired you, SUBSCRIBE to The Small Business Mindset and share it with another entrepreneur looking to grow smarter - not just harder. We'd love to hear from you!
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  154 - The Picture Behind the Business: A Story of Purpose, Loss and Resilience 01.07.2026 46min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! Every entrepreneur has a story, but sometimes the most powerful lessons aren't about business at all. In this deeply personal episode, Kirsten Flory welcomes photographer and entrepreneur Carter Gaskins, owner of Gaskins Photography, to discuss how unimaginable personal tragedy shaped both his life and his business.  Carter shares how the heartbreaking loss of his infant son inspired him to pick up a camera, ultimately transforming photography in a way to preserve precious moments for other families. What begins as a conversation about entrepreneurship quickly becomes an honest discussion about grief, mental health, purpose and redefining success.  Carter opens up about losing both his father and his son within a short period of time, burying his emotions for years, and eventually facing anxiety and depression after realizing grief doesn't simply disappear - it waits to be addressed. Together, Kirsten and Carter discuss the pressures entrepreneurs place on themselves, why asking for help is a strength - not a weakness - and how success changes as we grow personally and professionally.  Carter also shares why he founded Strong Mental Mindset, an initiative focused on encouraging conversations around mental health, particularly for men who often feel pressure to suffer in silence. This episode is a reminder that behind every business is a human being navigating life's highs and lows.  Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, parent, or simply someone going through a difficult season, this conversation offers hope, perspective, and encouragement. Key Takeaways: Sometimes our greatest purpose grows from our greatest pain Entrepreneurship can become both a calling and a coping mechanism Ignoring grief doesn't make it disappear - it often resurfaces later Success isn't measured only by income; it's measured by relationships, health, and fulfillment Mental health is the foundation of sustainable success Small daily actions can make a significant difference in healing Asking for help is one of the strongest things a person can do Genuine human connection is essential for both personal and professional growth Connect with Kirsten Flory Instagram Facebook LinkedIn
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  153 - What Young Entrepreneurs Get Right - and Wrong 17.06.2026 53min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this episode, Kirsten Flory sits down with Ryan Rains, Director of Entrepreneurship Programs at the University of Kansas School of Business and a member of the Foundations Commercial Real Estate team, for a thought-provoking discussion about entrepreneurship, side hustles, career development and what success actually looks like. Together, they explore why entrepreneurship has become such a powerful cultural movement, particularly among younger generations seeking greater control over their careers, income, and futures.  They discuss the rise of side hustles, the influence of social media, the realities behind "overnight success," and the importance of building meaningful relationships and networks over time. Ryan shares insights from working directly with aspiring entrepreneurs and explains why passion alone isn't enough to build a successful business.  The conversation dives into the importance of solving real market problems, staying adaptable, and being willing to pivot when necessary. Kirsten and Ryan also discuss: Why the marketplace - not passion alone - determines business viability The role of networking, mentorship, and relationship building Common misconceptions about entrepreneurship and wealth How social media can distort perceptions of success Why defining your personal "why" matters more than chasing money The value of diverse career experiences and transferable skills How volunteer work and community involvement can accelerate professional growth The opportunities AI may create for the next generation of business leaders Why curiosity may be one of the most valuable entrepreneurial traits of all Whether you're launching a side hustle, growing a business, or simply exploring what's next in your career, this conversation offers practical insights and plenty of food for thought. Connect with Kirsten Flory: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!
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  152 - From the Trunk of a Car to a Global Brand 03.06.2026 21min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this episode, Kirsten Flory dives into the incredible entrepreneurial journey behind Nike through the bestselling memoir Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. Most people see Nike as a global powerhouse, but few realize the company spent nearly 18 years fighting for survival before becoming a household name.  Kirsten unpacks the lessons small business owners can learn from Phil Knight's relentless perseverance, willingness to take risks, and ability to stay committed to a vision even while living on the edge of financial ruin. From selling track shoes out of the trunk of a car to building one of the most recognizable brands in the world, this episode explores: Why passion matters more than immediate success The importance of mentors and challengers in your life How surrounding yourself with the right people can shape your future Why niche focus can actually accelerate growth The risks and rewards of entrepreneurship What is means to "live on the float" while building a business How innovation and customer feedback drive long-term success Why questioning and challenging ideas inside your company is healthy The power of branding, partnerships, and culture Kirsten also reflects on how entrepreneurs often face skepticism from family, friends, and society while pursuing unconventional dreams - and why persistence is often the difference between failure and breakthrough success. If you've ever wondered whether your hard work is worth it, this episode is a reminder that some of the greatest success stories took years - sometimes decades, to become reality Key Takeaways: Nike was not an overnight success - it took 18 years to break through Staying focused on a niche can create momentum before expansion Entrepreneurs need people around them who challenge their thinking Innovation often comes from listening closely to customer feedback Passion and perseverance are critical during difficult seasons of business Building a strong culture matters just as much as building revenue Connect with Kirsten Flory at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn  
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  151 - Talk to People: The Skill That Changes Everything in Business Ft. Chris Miller 20.05.2026 59min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this episode, Kirsten Flory sits down with communication expert and podcast host Chris Miller to break down one of the most overlooked - yet critical - business skills: communication. Chris, host of Talk to Chris Miller and Talk to People Podcast, shares practical insights on how communication impacts leadership, sales, relationships, and everyday interactions. From avoiding common communication mistakes to mastering meaningful conversations, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone looking to level up how they connect wiht others. Key Takeaways: The #1 Communication Mistake: Most people focus on themselves instead of their audience Clarity Over Complexity: Avoid the "curse of knowledge" - don't assume people understand what you do. Better Conversations Start with Better Questions: Don't be a "ZQ" (zero questions).  Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions. Small is Powerful: It's not meaningless - it's the gateway to deeper, more meaningful conversations. Persuasion Framework for Business Owners: Build credibility, use logic, connect through emotion Conflict = Opportunity: Great communicators move past positions and uncover underlying interests. Why People Stay Quiet in Groups: Fear of being awkward, wrong, or judged holds people back. Communication is a Skill (Not Just Talent): It can absolutely be learned, practiced, and improved. Practical Tips You can Apply Today Ask one more question in every conversation Slow down your speech - clarify beats speed Use bullet points instead of scripts when presenting Practice conversations in low-stakes environments Make eye contact and engage - even in everyday moments Don't avoid hard conversations - lean into them Connect with Kirsten Flory LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Connect with Chris Miller YouTube: Talk to Chris Miller Podcast: Talk to People Podcast Instagram: 
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  150 - The #1 Mistake New Entrepreneurs Make (And How to Avoid it) 06.05.2026 13min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory challenges one of the most common myths in entrepreneurship: that you need money to start a business. Spoiler alert - you don't. What you do need is something far more valuable (and completely free): proof of concept. Kirsten dives into why so many aspiring business owners skip this critical step and how it can make or break your success before you ever spend a dollar.  She shared personal insights from building her commercial real estate brokerage, explaining how starting lean - and resisting the urge to overspend - allowed her business to grow strategically. You'll also hear a candid (and slightly humorous) story about a business idea that didn't pass the test, and why that failure was actually a win. This episode will help you: Understand what proof of concept really means Avoid the trap of relying on friends and family for validation Learn how to gather honest, actionable feedback Identify your true target customer Test your idea without wasting time or money Separate "people like it" from "people will pay for it" If you're thinking about starting a business, or pivoting your current one, this episode will give you a practical, no-cost roadmap to validate your idea before investing in it. Connect with Kirsten Flory at: Instagram LinkedIn Facebook
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  149 - Are You Accidentally Killing Your Business? 22.04.2026 14min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this episode, Kirsten Flory dives into the hard truth that many businesses don't survive - and more importantly, why.  While external factors can play a role, most business failures come down to three key areas: cash flow, market demand, and management.  The good news?  Two of those are fully within your control. Kirsten shares real-world insights on how poor financial decisions, lack of planning, and ignoring market shifts can quietly put your business at risk.  She also offers practical strategies to help you stay ahead, maintain control, and build a resilient business that can weather uncertainty. If you want to avoid becoming part of the failure statistics, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. Key Takeaways: Cash Flow is King: without consistent cash flow, even profitable businesses can fail. Don't Overspend Early: Focus on function over aesthetics when launching or growing your business Every Expense Matters: Even small costs (like "ketchup-level" decisions) can impact profitability. Market Demand Shifts - Pay Attention: your customers, products, and delivery methods must evolve over time. Your Business Plan Isn't Static: Revisit and adjust it regularly - don't let it collect dust. Management Matters: Organization, financial visibility, and leadership are critical to survival. Track Everything: Know Your Numbers - cash in, cash out, pipeline, and projections. Prepare for the Worst: Scenario planning helps you pivot before it's too late. Act Early: The sooner you address challenges, the more options you have. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode! Follow Kirsten Flory at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn  
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  148 - Don't Let Your Business Become the Next Penny 08.04.2026 19min

  Watch this episode on YouTube While it may seem insigificant, the story of the penny reveals a crucial lesson for business owners. Originally valueable and practical, the penny ultimately became obsolete - costing more to produce than it was worth.  Sound familiar? Kirsten draws a direct parallel to what happens in many small businesses: strong sales, growing revenue, and busy operations...but little to no profit. She breaks down why this happens and what to do about it. Key Takeaways: Revenue doesn't always equal profit - just because your sales look strong, doesn't mean your business is healthy. If your cost of goods or services outweighs your pricing, you're operating at a loss - just like the penny! Question "The way it's always been done" - innovation happens when you challenge assumptions. Kirsten shares an example from Tesla, where rethinking production methods dramatically reduced costs without sacrificing quality. Understand Your True Costs - from materials and labor to software subscriptions and marketing spend, every cost matters. If you're not tracking them closely, it can quietly erode your margains. Be willing to adapt and pivot - holding onto a product or service just because it defines your brand can hold you back.  If it's not profitable, it may be time to evolve. Develop an owners skillset-  As an owner you must: Be curious and ask questions Get comfortable with risk Wear multiple hats when needed Balance strategic thinking with execution Know where your sales come from - analyze your past year: Are your customers repeat, referral or new (and how did they hear about you)? Which offerings are most profitable (not just popular)? Where should you double down, or pull back? Focus on profit, not just growth - the goal isn't just to sell more, it's to keep more. Adjust pricing, packaging, or delivery methods to improve margains. Connect with Kirsten at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to Subscribe so you won't miss an episode!
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  147 - 5 Habits that are Quietly Stunting Your Business Growth 18.03.2026 17min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! As the first quarter of the year wraps up, it's the perfect time to evaluate your business goals.  Are you tracking your progress - or simply hoping things work out?  In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory shares five common habits that can quietly stunt business growth and how small business owners can shift their focus to build momentum instead. Many entrepreneurs fall into patterss that feel productive, but ultimately limit their ability to grow.  From failing to understand your top clients to spending too much time on strategy and not enough on sales, these habits can hold even the most dedicated business owners back.  Kirsten breaks down practical ways to recognize these patterns and make simple adjustments that help your business thrive. If you're serious about scaling your business in 2026, this episode will help you refocus on what truly drives growth. Key Takeaways: Identify who your most valuable clients really are Stay connected to clients to understand how their needs are evolving Don't assume economic shifts determine your outcome - adapt and pivot instead Build your business around clear priorities and aligned decisions Remember: sales drives sustainability.  If revenue isn't coming in, growth stops. Connect with Kirsten Flory at: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you won't miss an episode!
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  146 - From Failure to 7 Figures: Sales Lessons with Rod Santomassimo 04.03.2026 47min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! What does it take to grow a business every single year, even through recession, mistakes and market shifts? In this episode, Kirsten Flory sits down with bestselling author, coach, and founder of The Massimo Group, Rod Santomassimo, to talk about sales, mindset, risk, failure, AI, social media and the real drivers behind sustainable growth. From a painful (and hilarious) marketing typo that launched his coaching business...to doubling and tripling seven-figure incomes...Rod shares the frameworks that separate transactional operators from true business owners. If you are building a small business, or thinking about it, this episode is packed with practical strategy and powerful mindset shifts. Key Takeaways: Think like a business owner Failure is part of the formula Most people do social media wrong Answer these two questions:  1) Who do I serve? and 2) How do I serve them? The 3-Question sales framework Connect with Kirsten Flory at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn   And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you won't miss an episode!
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  145 - Success is More Than a Scorecard: Relationships, Curiosity and Growth 18.02.2026 23min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this reflective episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory shares lessons learned from reaching a milestone birthday - turning 50!  Rather than focusing on age as a number, she explores what the next chapter of life, business, and personal growth can look like when guided by curiosity, connection and intention. From redifining success beyond money to the power of meaningful relationships, stepping outside your comfort zone, and experiencing life with childlike wonder, this episode is an invitation to slow down and reflect on what truly matters. Whether you're building a business, navigating change, or thinking about what's next, this episode offers perspective and practical mindset shifts that you can apply right now. Key takeaways: Why success isn't just about money or achievement How curiosity leads to deeper relationships and unexpected opportunities The importance of initiating connection instead of waiting Growth through discomfort and new experiences Slowing down to be present and create lasting memories Tune in for an honest conversation about growth, fulfilliment and building a life - not just a business. Connect with Kirsten Flory at: www.kirstenflory.com And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode!
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  144 - Build, Buy or Repurpose? Making the Right Real Estate Decision for Your Business 04.02.2026 36min

  Watch this episode on YouTube In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory sits down with Lance Johnson, Engineer with Bartlett & West Engineering, to unpack what business owners really need to think about before buying, renovating, or building a commercial property. For many entrepreneurs, occupying space is inevitable - but owning the right space can be a power wealth building strategy.  The challenge?  Most business owners are real estate developers.   Lance brings clarity to the process, breaking down the "boring but critical" elements of development that can save business owners from costly mistakes down the road. From planning to infrastructure to post-COVID construction costs and adaptive use, this conversation is packed with practical insights for business owners at every stage of growth. Key topics covered: Why proper planning upfront is the most important step before any build The "unsexy" but essential elements of development (i.e. foundations, drainage, HVAC, roofs) Where business owners should spend money - and where cutting corners can backfire New construction vs. buying and renovating: why there's no "one size fits all" answer How to evaluate "hairy" properties and identify real red flags Construction cost trends since COVID and why prices are unlikely to come back down The growing trend of repurposing building (office to housing, schools, churches, malls) Infill development vs. greenfield development - and the challenges of each How to protect yourself during development without slowing the project down Who should be on your development dream team (and why communication matters) What the development process actually looks like once you've selected your team How thinking long-term can reduce maintenance costs and increase durability Planning for future growth: building more space now vs. expanding later Lance Johnson is an engineer with Bartlett & West Engineering, bringing decades of experience in commercial development, infrastructure, and adaptive reuse projects across the country.  His practical, long-term approach helps business owners make smarter, ore sustainable real estate decisions. Contact Lance at: lance.johnson@bartwest.com   Final Thought: Whether you're outgrowing your current space, considering your first building purchase, or dreaming about a ground-up build, this episode will help you think strategically and realistically, about what it takes to create a space that truly works for your business. Connect with Kirsten Flory at: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to get updates on new episodes!
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  143 - Is Your Business Actually Viable? 5 Tests Before You Spend a Dollar 21.01.2026 13min

  Watch this episode on You Tube! Before you invest time, money, and energy into a new business idea, there's one critical question you must answer: Is it actually viable? In this episode, host Kirsten Flory walks through give simple but powerful tests every entrepreneur should use to validate a startup idea before going all in.  Through real-world examples - from product ideas to grocery delivery services - Kirsten shares how asking the right questions early can save you significant time, money, and frustration. Key Takeaways: Why idea validation matters more than passion alone The difference between solving your problem and solving a market problem How to have real conversation without pitching Why "people like it" doesn't mean "people will pay for it" How to avoid perfectionism while still delivering value The importance of repeat customers and referrals Follow Kirsten Flory at: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And SUBSCRIBE to get updates and new episodes!
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  142 - The Data You Need to Win in 2026 07.01.2026 19min

  Watch this episode on You Tube! As we kick of 2026, Kirsten Flory challenges small business owners to start the year with clarity - not guesswork.  In this episode, she breaks down the most important data points every entrepreneur should be tracking to make smarter decisions, improve profitability, and eliminate what's no longer working. From understanding where you sales really come from, to evaluating clients, marketing spend, staff performance and even product offerings, this episode is a practical roadmap to use data to drive growth. Kirsten also shares real-world examples from her own business, including a hard decision she made to walk away from a service that wasn't profitable - even though clients loved it. If you want 2026 to be your most focused, efficient, and profitable year yet, this episode will help you start with the right foundation. Key Takeaways: Why business data is one of your most profitable tools in 2026 What product-based and service-based businesses should be tracking How to identify your most valuable customers Evaluating marketing and advertising ROI How to analyze staffing, payroll and productivity Why annual employee evaluations matter more than you think Knowing when to eliminate products and services Follow Kirsten at: Website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram And SUBSCRIBE to be notified of upcoming episodes!  
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  141 - Are You Interested or Committed? 17.12.2025 23min

  Watch this episode on YouTube As we close out 2025 and step boldly into planning for 2026, Kirsten challenges you with a tough but transformational question: Are you committed to your goals, or merely interested?   Most people like the idea of achieving big things - more income, more freedom, more abundance, etc.  But liking the idea isn't enough.  In this episode, Kirsten digs into the mindset shifts, the stories we tell ourselves, and the fears we cling to that keep us from living the bigger life we imagine. Key Takeaways: The difference between interest and commitment How your backstory shapes your future (if you let it!) The excuse loop that kills dreams Why you need to rewrite your story The confidence you already have (you're overlooking it!) The power of failing on purpose Kirsten's travel story that proves the point The 60-second exercise that can change your life Turning your wish list into a commitment plan   Follow Kirsten for more tips and updates at: www.kirstenflory.com LinkedIn Instagram Facebook *And don't forget to subscibe so you'll never miss a tip that can grow your business!
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  140 - Time, Risk, and Wealth: What the Rich Know that Others Don't with Mike Milligan 03.12.2025 56min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this conversation, Mike Milligan discusses the critical relationship between risk and wealth building, emphasizing that significant risks are necessary for rapid financial growth.  He highlights the importance of having a safety net when taking these risks and reflects on the value of time in the context of wealth creation, suggesting that successful individuals would trade their wealth for more time if given the chance. Key Takeaways: If you want to build wealth fast, you have to take huge risks and you have to be willing to fail. Many people who have failed and lost seven figures can rebuild their wealth. Successful individuals value time over money, willing to trade wealth for additional years of life. Taking big risks is essential for rapid wealth growth. Having a safety net is crucial when pursuing high-risk investments. Failure is part of the journey to success and wealth building. The ability to rebuild wealth is a common trait among successful entrepreneurs. Time is a non-renewable resource that wealthy individuals prioritize. Financial planning should account for both risk and safety measures. Understanding the balance between risk and reward is key to financial success. Connect with Mike at: Website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Don't forget to subscribe to The Small Business Mindset so you never miss a tip that can grow your business! Follow Kirsten Flory for more tips and updates! www.kirstenflory.com  
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  139 - The Energy Advantage: How to Fuel Your Life and Business Every Day 19.11.2025 27min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! In this energizing episode, Kirsten dives into the connection between your personal energy and your business success.  From sleep and nutrition to boundaries, community, and environment - she shares practical ways to recharge and sustain your energy so you can show up as your best self every day, both at work and at home. Key Takeaways: Energy Drive Success - your personal energy affects every area of your business - decision-making, creativity, relationships, and growth. Treat it as one of your most valuable business assets. Prioritize Restful Sleep  Create a tech-free sleep zone (no phone in the bedroom!) Use "Do Not Disturb" settings for uninterrupted rest. Build a peaceful bedtime routine: Calming scents, magnesium, cool/dark room, and consistency. Quality sleep fuels productivity, focus, and emotional balance. Schedule White Space Don't pack your calendar solid - schedule mental breaks Use commute time or shot gaps to breathe, reflect, and reset. Protect time for creativity and rest - they're essential for high performance. Manage Your Commitments Volunteerism and community service are valuable, but choose them intentionally. Say "no" with grace when your schedule or energy doesn't allow for more. Focus your giving on causes that truly align with your purpose and values. Fuel Your Body for Energy Nutrition equals energy - eat foods that sustain, not drain, you. Increase protein, fiber, and whole foods; minimize sugar and alcohol. Check in with your doctor regularly to understand what your body needs. Build an Energizing Community Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Take initiative in relationships - don't wait for connection, create it. Protect your emotional energy from draining dynamics. Design Your Environment for Flow Tidy spaces, good lighting, and organization promote calm and focus. Rearrange items seasonally to refresh energy flow. Make habits easy by designing your space around them (e.g. keep a water bottle nearby). Move Your Body Daily Movement enhances clarity, mood, and longevity. Find what fits your body now - walking, yoga, strength training, or stretching. Small, consistent movement is better than burnout-level workouts. Final Thought: Your energy is your greatest business tool.  When you nuture it - through rest and  intention, and everything in your business and life will flow more effectively. Connect with Kirsten: Website: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram LinkedIn  
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  138 - Building Green Goo: Family, Failure, and the Fight to Keep Going 05.11.2025 42min

  Watch this episode on YouTube! Every entrepreneur's journey is unique - and today's story is nothing short of remarkable.  I sit down with Jodi Scott, the founder and CEO of Green Goo, a plant-based first aid and skincare company that grew from her family's kitchen to 150,000 stores nationwide.  Jodi shared the incredible highs of building and selling her company, the heartbreak of nearly losing everything, and the grit it took to buy it back and rebuild stronger than ever.  You'll hear how a simple idea sparked at a farmers market became a multimillion-dollar business, the realities of scaling a family-run company, and the hard-earned lessons Jodi has carried through her journey as an entrepreneur.   What you'll learn in this episode: How Green Goo started as a family passion project and grew into a national brand. The behind-the-scenes reality of selling (and then buying back a company. What is takes to scale from local farmers markets to international retail shelves. The importance of resilience, adaptability, and self-care in business. Lessons Jodi wishes she had known earlier about leadership, growth, and balance Whether you're building your business from the ground up, or navigating the challenges of growth, Jodi's story is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Connect with Jodi Scott & Green Goo Website Instagram @greengoohelps LinkedIn @JodiScott Like this episode? Don't forget to subscribe so you'll never miss an episode!   Connect with Kirsten Flory at www.kirstenflory.com   
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  137 - Why the Phone Isn't Ringing & How to Fix It 22.10.2025 13min

  Watch this episode on You Tube HERE! Are you struggling with sales and wondering why your phone isn't ringing?  In this episode, Kirsten Flory dives into the challenges of sales outreach, why prospects may not be responding, and actionable strategies to turn things around. In this episode you'll learn: How to provide real value to prospects instead of just selling The importance of using multiple communication channels (phone, email, social media, handwritten notes, and more) Why consistency is key in outreach and follow-up How sharing success stories can boost your credibility and attract business Leveraging your referral network to uncover opportunities The power of curiosity: asking questions and understanding your clients' needs Why responsiveness sets you apart from the competition Using downtime strategically to enhance your sales process (podcasts, blogs, social media, and more) Key Takeaways: Focus on helping your prospects first - give before you ask. Mix up communication channels and stay persistent. Celebrate wins, share stories, and respond promptly. *Whether you're in real estate, sales, or any client-driven business, these strategies will help you increase engagement, build trust, and ultimately get your phone ringing again. **Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a tip that can grow your business! Follow Kirsten at: www.kirstenflory.com LinkedIn Facebook Instagram    
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  136 - The Mindset Shift Every Business Owner Needs with Megan Schwan 08.10.2025 35min

  Watch this episode on YouTube HERE! Most small business owners don't start out as financial experts - and that's exactly why 8 out of 10 small businesses fail.  In this episode, I sit down with Megan Schwan, CEO and founder of Sidekick Accounting Services, to talk about how to set your business up for financial success. Megan has spent over two decades in accounting and has helped thousands of business owners understand their numbers, implement smart tax strategies, and build businesses that last.  She's also a certified Profit First Professional, helping entrepreneurs prioritize profitability and cash flow so they can thrive no matter what the economy brings. What you'll hear in this episode: Why separating your business and personal finances is critical to your mindset and growth Simple first steps to get control of your business finances (even if numbers aren't your strength) How to recession-proof your business with savings and pricing strategies Common mistakes business owners make when it comes to expenses and marketing How to know if your business model is truly profitable - or if it's time to pivot When to hire and how to make sure you're financially ready Whether you're just starting out or scaling your business, Megan shared practical strategies you can use today to improve cash show, cut overwhelm, and build a business that supports both your goals and your lifestyle. Connect with Megan Schwan & Sidekick Accounting Services: Website; www.sidekick-accounting.com  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Let's stay connected!  Follow and Subscribe The Small Business Mindset on YouTube and your favorite podcast platform. www.kirstenflory.com LinkedIn Facebook Instagram