The Small Business School Podcast

In this episode, I dive into a mindset shift that I believe can transform your business and lead to a lot of growth. I often hear small business owners calling their businesses their ‘baby’ but we want our business to grow and develop beyond the stage of constant care and supervision. My mom used to always say kids needed two things: roots to grow and develop and wings to blossom and be launched....

Welcome back to Small Business School! In this special in person episode, Mallory Rowan and I dive deep into our shared experiences of neurodivergence and autism. Mallory is a multi passionate entrepreneur, season founder and digital creator and coach. Together we discuss how neurodivergence shows up in our everyday lives and how it impacts our businesses.  We share the struggles, the funny moment...

Today on Small Business school we're diving deep into one of the most essential skills to develop for any small business owner: marketing.  Although often a second thought, understanding the ins and outs of marketing can transform the way your business reaches and resonates with customers. Let's talk about why learning the foundations of marketing is crucial, and how you can get started...

In today’s episode of Small Business School, I’m thrilled to chat with Jen Kinal. Jen is the owner of a successful social media agency, helping clients elevate their marketing campaigns and achieve their goals through strategic social media. She is also the founder and creator of The Bold Founders, a thriving community for women in business to connect, learn from inspiring speakers, and support on...

Today I’m recording live with some good friends and inspiring entrepreneurs. This episode features Carly Ottaway, Kim Hiebert, Janette Downie, and a little bit of Laura Sinclair, live from our spa getaway. We are talking about leveling up in our business, finding balance and self care in business, and answering the question together, is business personal? This conversation is so much fun and fille...

In this episode of Small Business School, I’m diving into a powerful conversation inspired by Mel Robbins on the science and art of manifesting. No matter what you believe of the science or energy of manifestation, there’s something in this for you! Let’s talk about breaking through our mental blocks in business and eliminating the stories we tell ourselves about our limitations. Topics Covered: T...

Today on Small Business School I am talking with Kristy Miller, the founder and CEO of The Scented Market, a Canadian candle and wellness brand known for its eco-friendly, beautifully crafted products. From humble beginnings pouring candles on her kitchen stove, Kristy has grown her business into a multi-location success, even capturing the attention of all six dragons on CBC’s Dragons’ Den. A ded...

In today’s episode, we dive deep into a mindset shift that can transform how you approach every aspect of your business. Understanding the motivations of those around you – from team members to customers – could be the secret sauce to achieving your goals and creating win-win situations. Let’s explore how this mindset can be the ultimate game-changer! Topics Covered: Why understanding motivation m...

Welcome to Small Business School! In this special episode I am bringing three incredible Canadian female business owners together who are transforming the world of ethical, sustainable, and size-inclusive fashion. We dive deep into their journeys of entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a brand, and how they manage to stay true to their values in a fast-changing industry! Topics Covered: Th...

Financial planning for your small business should be intentional, strategic, and actionable. In this episode, I share insights from a recent client conversation that will guide your approach to setting 2025 financial goals differently. Let’s move beyond arbitrary numbers and build a plan that sets you up for success! Topics Covered: Why not every financial goal requires a formal strategy session a...

Welcome back to Small Business School! Today, we’re diving into why understanding financial management matters more for your business than getting caught up in the nitty-gritty of accounting. You know me—I’m all about the numbers, but I want you to know where your skills as a business owner are best spent. Let’s clear up the difference between knowing your numbers and keeping your books to help yo...

In this episode of Small Business School, I'm joined by Jonathan Bowers, a seasoned tech entrepreneur with experience building product teams. Jonathan’s agency has helped build amazing products for our clients in education, government, finance, and climate. We discuss the process of building apps and software that truly bring value to businesses. From defining your product's purpose to t...

In today’s episode, I’m diving into understanding your cash flow and staying on top of taxes as a small business owner. Whether you're just starting out, a couple of years in, or haven’t looked at your numbers in a while, this episode is all about getting clear on your taxes and financial basics that’ll keep your business moving forward! Topics Covered: Why managing cash flow and setting asid...

Welcome to a joint episode of Small Business School with Staci Millard, and Community with Kristina Bartold, in this episode together they are diving into one of their favourite topics, building meaningful connections in business. From client referrals to new friendships, they get into how nurturing genuine relationships can have a huge impact on personal growth and business success! Topics Covere...

Welcome back to Small Business School! Today I am chatting with Avery Swartz, founder of Camp Tech, best-selling author of ‘See You on the Internet’, and AI expert. Together, we dive into the real impact AI is having on small businesses today and how we can embrace it without feeling overwhelmed.  Avery is the resident tech contributor on CTV Your Morning and is regularly heard on CBC Radio. In th...

In this episode, I’m diving into what it really takes to start and scale a business, beyond just following a passion. Whether you’re just starting out, or you’re well into the growth phase, understanding the importance of cash flow and profitability is key to long-term success. Let’s explore why racing to prove your business model is essential and how you can make sure your business is profitable...

Welcome back to Small Business School! This episode is for any entrepreneur feeling tired and weighed down by the constant changes, uncertainty, and the grind of running a business. You're not alone, and I want to help! In this episode I’ll go through some practical, uplifting tips to help you reconnect with your passion and keep you moving forward! Topics Covered: Get in community: Step away...

Welcome back to Small Business School! In this episode I am thrilled to share this conversation with Lindsay Housman, founder and CEO of Hettas, a new Canadian performance footwear brand that researches, designs and tests shoes from the female perspective.  Together we discuss Lindsay’s journey, raising capital, social impact, and the importance of developing a brand that can grow and adapt over t...

In today's episode, I’m diving into the powerful concept that you're not just in the business of providing a product or service, you’re in the business of marketing it. No matter what industry you're in, whether you're a dentist, accountant, consultant, or retailer, the success of your business comes down to how well you can sell and communicate your value. Even the best produc...

As small business owners, we often take pride in wearing all the hats. If we want  to scale, we need to eventually relinquish a lot of these roles. Though if you're in the stage of wearing all the hats right now, this episode is for you. I'm diving into how we can manage all those key business areas while staying intentional and growing! It starts with an understanding of what success in...

In this episode of Small Business School, we’re joined by Peg Fitzpatrick, a seasoned social media strategist and author of ‘The Art of Small Business Social Media: A Blueprint for Marketing Success’ coming soon! She helps small businesses create impactful online strategies to grow their presence and engage with their audience. With a passion for practical tips and creative content, Peg’s work emp...

Sometimes life throws unexpected changes our way, and how we respond can make all the difference. In this quick episode, I share how I turned a canceled trip into an opportunity to find balance between self-care and business. In the past I’ve fallen into this "all or nothing" trap where I put too much pressure on myself and my time, it always leaves you disappointed. In this episode I am...

In this episode of Small Business School, I’m reflecting on a family trip to visit my Grandparents that sparked a lot of thoughts about purpose and sustainability for me.  Leaving me with the question, how can we shape our businesses for long term, sustainable success, and a better future? Topics Covered: The significance of having purpose beyond retirement and how it keeps us engaged. Reflections...

In this episode of Small Business School, we dive into the essential role of HR in scaling your business with Larissa Currah. Larissa is the Founder of LC People Consulting, which supports organizations with independent HR Consulting and Fractional HR Services. She has over a decade of HR experience working with organizations to support their growth and scale. Her expertise in leveraging people da...

Today on Small Business School I’m bringing you a spontaneous recording from the car, but a super powerful chat that I am confident every single business owner needs to nail, understanding your numbers.  In this quick episode I am going to break down how knowing your financials is key to running a profitable business, while giving you some actionable steps to create your own financial roadmap! Top...