The Small Business Social Podcast

In this episode of Small Business Social , we sat down with Maureen and Blair , the creative duo behind Pathways Through Life , a business dedicated to helping families preserve and celebrate life's most meaningful moments. From innovative QR-code-enabled photo displays that bring memories to life with the touch of a phone, to personalized memorial ornaments and keepsakes that honor loved ones, Ma...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we sit down with Deb of Cozy Corner Crafts to talk about her inspiring journey from a career in nursing to building a handmade craft business rooted in creativity and passion. Deb shares how her love of sewing and working with fabric evolved into a thriving small business filled with practical, personality-driven creations. From seasonal products and craf...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we sit down with Cheryl of Reiki Will Travel to explore her unique, holistic approach to energy healing. From Reiki and intuitive tarot to her work with animals through horse Reiki, Cheryl shares how these practices support mental, emotional, and physical well-being. We dive into how energy work can help individuals navigate stress, change, and personal g...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we welcome Kelly of KQ Handmade Crafts , a maker passionate about creating chemical-free skincare and handmade goods. Kelly shares how a personal health scare first inspired her to begin making natural products, eventually leading to a growing small business built around organic deodorants, lotions, lip balms, and handcrafted items. The conversation dives...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we sit down with Leyshla , founder of Leyshla's Luxe Shop , to talk about her journey into candle making and entrepreneurship. Leyshla shares how she built her handmade candle and home fragrance brand with a strong commitment to quality materials and thoughtful craftsmanship. The conversation dives into the realities of balancing a full-time job while gro...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we sit down with Amy Crose , founder of Mandala Minds & Wellness , for a thoughtful and grounding conversation about creativity, mindfulness, and holistic health. Amy shares her journey from a 30-year career in nursing to building a wellness business rooted in mental health support and the therapeutic power of mandalas. The discussion explores the imp...

In this episode of Small Business Social, we sit down with Peter and Beckett, the entrepreneurs behind Chicken Rock 3D Printing, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, growth, and modern entrepreneurship. They share how they got started in the world of 3D printing, what it’s really like running a small business as a family, and the challenges and wins that come with scaling in a fast-movi...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we welcome Pearl , the founder of Rustic Elegance Candles , for an honest and inspiring conversation about building a business one pour at a time. Pearl shares her journey from a career in retail to creating beautiful, customizable candles, while balancing a full-time job and a growing side hustle. The conversation dives into the realities of candle makin...

In this episode of Small Business Social , we sat down with Jaylyn of Just By Jaylyn , a Connecticut-based handmade business rooted in creativity and community. We talk about the realities of starting and growing a small business, navigating the busy holiday season, and balancing multiple jobs while pursuing entrepreneurial dreams. Jaylyn shares insight into her creative process, current crafting...

Bob Dickson, President of Dale Carnegie Training Connecticut, joins Small Business Social to discuss the power of personal development and people-centered leadership. From building strong relationships to planning intentionally for success, Bob explains why Dale Carnegie’s timeless principles continue to transform individuals and organizations alike. This episode highlights why investing in yourse...

In this episode of Small Business Social, we interview Cameron and Ryan from Wendtwick's Candle Co. They discuss their journey of starting a candle business, balancing work and personal life, the importance of branding and marketing, and the challenges they face as small business owners. The conversation highlights their innovative product offerings, the significance of community support, and thei...

In this week’s episode of Small Business Social , hosts Care Verikas and Steve Seymour sit down with Jackie and Matt from Wild Raven Farm , an incredible herb farm and apothecary based in Oxford, Connecticut. They share their inspiring journey into herbalism, the wide range of natural products they’ve created, and the importance of reconnecting with nature in everyday life. From natural cleaning p...

In Episode 13 of Small Business Social , hosts Care Verikas and Steve Seymour sit down with Matthew Banever , founder of Bards Clothing , a Connecticut-based custom clothing brand rooted in storytelling and American craftsmanship. Matt shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey—from early setbacks (including a $32K clothing disaster!) to building a brand that values intention over impulse and q...

In this episode of Small Business Social, hosts Care Verikas and Steve Seymour welcome Megan Lye, a personal development coach, who shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to coaching. Megan discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, the importance of being present, and her upcoming projects aimed at helping others navigate their personal and professional lives...

In this episode of Small Business Social, hosts Care Verikas and Steve Seymour welcome Dawn Nielsen and Justin Malley from the Economic and Community Development Department of Bristol. They discuss the importance of supporting small businesses, the role of local government in fostering economic growth, and the marketing strategies being implemented to attract new businesses and tourists to the are...

In this episode of Small Business Social, hosts Care Verikas and Steve Seymour interview Lauren, the founder of Seven Continents, a home fragrance business inspired by her love for travel. Lauren shares her journey from creating candles as DIY gifts to establishing a successful brand with a focus on wholesaling. The conversation delves into her experiences with trade shows, customer engagement thr...

In Episode 9 of Small Business Social , hosts Care Verikas and Steve Seymour sit down with Becky Imbimbo , the creative force behind The Always Busy Mama . Becky opens up about her journey from postpartum depression to launching a handcrafted jewelry brand that empowers busy women with meaningful, durable pieces. She shares the realities of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, the importan...

This one was such a fun conversation—Steve & Care dive into some of today’s hottest small business topics, from the rise of AI and how it’s reshaping the way we work, to the power (and challenge) of delegating, to the importance of finding your niche and leaning into what makes your business unique. Along the way, they share stories, insights, and laughs that every entrepreneur can relate to.

This week on the Small Business Social podcast, we’re joined by Taylor and Jeff , the husband-and-wife duo behind Daydream Made —a small business that transforms creativity and craftsmanship into meaningful, handmade gifts. In this episode, we talk about: Blending art and technology in a product-based business Creating gifts that tell a story, the magic behind their “Blind Date with a Book” bestse...

This is a must-listen for anyone who loves local events, smart marketing, and building community impact! 🎙️ We sat down with Jesse Jablon, the powerhouse behind the Rockwell Park Summer Festival and the Taste of Bristol promo, to talk about: 🎪 How a grassroots festival grew to 180+ vendors and 12 bands 🍴 Supporting small businesses through creative, no-cost promos 📣 Real advice for marketing ev...

We’re thrilled to welcome Eric Verikas, co-founder of both Dusty Dude Woodworks and The Bristol Bazaar (and husband to our co-host, Care Verikas! ) Eric began Dusty Dude Woodworks in 2017—turning his passion for crafting custom cornhole boards into a full-time shop that now builds tables, doors, built-ins, and more In 2023, Eric and Care took that same visionary spirit to build The Bristol Bazaar—...

Are you running on empty as a small business owner? Let’s talk about it. Join us on the Small Business Social podcast as Steve & Care dive into: “What No One Tells You About Burnout” We’re sharing real stories, hard truths & practical tips for managing the hustle without losing yourself in the process. Whether you’re in the middle of the grind or feeling the burnout creeping in, this is a...

We’re sitting down with Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s first Chief Marketing Officer and the unofficial hype man for the state’s small businesses. From bakeries with cult followings to oyster farms turned foodie pilgrimages, Anthony is on a mission to make sure Connecticut’s entrepreneurs get the national spotlight they deserve. In this episode, we’re talking about: The power of storytelling for s...

Today for our very first episode, we're sitting down with Virginia Brown, the creative mind and heart behind Beret & Brush - a local gem bringing art, community and creativity to Connecticut.

Join us as we kick off the Small Business Social podcast. A show hosted by two small business owners looking to help answer questions and make connections for entrepreneurs near and far!