The Turtlesmith Podcast

In this episode of "The Basics of Accounting," Scott Hess (tax and business consultant) and John Barton (small business owner) break down the essentials every entrepreneur needs to know about accounting. From understanding the difference between cash and accrual accounting, to the importance of double-entry bookkeeping, Scott and John share practical advice, real-world stories, and hard-earned les...

n this episode, Scott and John dive deep into the often-overlooked world of business licenses and permits. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, understanding the legal requirements for your business is crucial. The hosts break down the different types of licenses—professional, city, county, state, and federal—and share real-life stories about the challenges and surprises that can...

John and Scott dive into the world of small business funding. They share personal stories and practical advice on self-funding, loans, investors, and alternative financing options. The hosts break down the pros and cons of using credit cards, seeking friends and family support, working with angel investors, and navigating bank and SBA loans. They also discuss the importance of a solid business pla...

Today we spend some time recapping Phase 1 (Planning) of our series before moving on to Phase 2, which is Preparing. We've discussed The Elevator Pitch, Becomming an Expert, Market Research, The Feasibility Study, Brand Development, Concept Development, Marketing and Sales, and Financial Planning. These should give you a rock-solid foundation for your business to thrive! The Turtlesmith Podcast is...

In this episode, John and Scott dive deep into the crucial topic of financial planning for small business owners and entrepreneurs. They break down the essential steps of calculating startup costs, understanding monthly cash burn, and building a realistic pro forma to project revenue, expenses, and profitability. Drawing from personal stories and decades of experience, they highlight the importanc...

On todays episode we get into Step 7 which is Marketing Strategy and Sales Approach. Scott and John share their tips on how to navigate this complex step in the development of your business. After that we discuss consumer rights to repair the products they own, and how those laws are changing. And to close us out, we talk about some things that impressed us. Follow us across all socials @turtlesmi...

Today we jump into Concept Development. How well does your concept hold up against scrutiny, and how can we develop it further? We also get into a discussion about Employees, and avoiding burnout. Follow us across socials at @Turtlesmithok

Today we take a look at how to develop your brand, and the importance of doing so. Scott and John also get into a conversation about Seasonal businesses and their models.

Today's episode is all about the Feasibility Study. This is the study you want to conduct to see if your idea is even feasible as a business. After that we talk about the importance of reliability in business, before also talking about how the IRS hiring a bunch of agents, doesn't really affect you.

Today Scott and John share with you the importance of doing your Market Research. It wouldn't be wise to start a business in a market that isn't right for your particular business, or a market that is too saturated. How do you know which is which? Market Research is how you find out. They also get into a discussion on "Tipflation" and some Successes and Failures as well!

In this episode, Scott and John break down the importance of becoming an expert in your business. We also look at some ways to protect yourself and your business from scammers.

In the first episode we break down our first step in Phase 1 (The Planning Phase) of starting a business, and that's how to develop an Elevator Pitch, and why that's important. Scott and John then get into a discussion about the customer experience, before finally sharing some failures and success stories of their own. The Turtlesmith Podcast is aimed at people who want to take their step into ent...