Small Business Strategies

262: Discussing Kitchen and Bath Design Trends Ahead of KBIS 2026 with Designer Elizabeth Lord-Levitt

On this episode, designer Elizabeth Lord-Levitt joins the show to share some of the biggest kitchen and bath design trends of 2026.  Elizabeth has an extensive background in the remodeling industry, as the lead designer for a highly regarded Design-Build firm in Denver, and will be moderating a panel at KBIS in February. 

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261: The New Era of Online Search: How AI Is Reshaping SEO From the Ground Up

Artificial Intelligence is changing how online content is discovered and presented through AI-powered search. On this episode, copywriter Scott McKelvey joins us to talk about creating content that shows up in AI-generated answers, summaries, and overviews. You can learn more about Scott and read some of his work by visiting https://www.scottmckelvey.com.

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256: Interview with Joe Salzman of Cultured Marble of Tucson

On this episode, Joseph Salzman joins the podcast to talk about his background in the industry. He founded Cultured Marble of Tucson in 2018 following his service in the US Army.  They specialize in manufacturing high-quality cultured marble products for remodeling projects, wholesale distribution, and DIY enthusiasts. They serve Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and surrounding areas in…

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255: Transforming Workplace Culture Through “The 6 Gears of Grategy”

On this episode, Lisa Ryan discusses lessons on transforming workplace culture from her most recent book Gear Up for Greatness. This book presents a timely framework for business leaders grappling with workforce challenges that have become increasingly critical in our industry. As manufacturers face persistent labor shortages, rising turnover costs, and the need to attract skilled…

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254: From Chaos to Control: How Systems Maximize Profits and Business Value

On this episode, Jim Custer of Corporate Business Solutions joins the podcast to discuss the importance of systems. Jim works with small business owners to identify and fix profit leaks, helping them maximize value, improve efficiency, and free up time for what truly matters.  His company offers a broad array of services, furnishing analytical, consulting,…

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253: How Meaningful Conversations Can Fuel Business Growth – Interview with Tato Corcoran of Brandt Molded Marble

This episode features an interview with Tato Corcoran, owner of Brandt Molded Marble. She shares some great lessons on the benefits of networking outside of our trade and how conversations with business leaders in other industries can lead to positive changes in your business.  This interview has been featured in the latest summer edition of Cast Polymer…

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252: Recapping the Composites Fly-In with Dan Neumann

On this episode, Dan Neumann joins the podcast to discuss last week’s Composites Fly-In in Washington, DC. This event provided a unique setting for members of the Composites/ Cast Polymer industry to meet with Members of Congress and agency leadership and educate them on the importance and capabilities of these materials. 

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251: Talking Composites Automation with POLYCON Keynote Speaker Derek DeGeest

On this episode, we feature an interview with Derek DeGeest, our POLYCON 2025 keynote speaker. He’ll share his thoughts about automation and advanced robotic technology in the composites industry.  Derek is the president at DeGeest Corporation, a leading resource for manufacturers looking for excellence in automation and finishing. They’ve been helping manufacturers solve problems since 1976….

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250: Exactly What to Say: Magic Words for Influence and Impact – Interview with Author Phil Jones

On this episode, we’ll feature an interview with Phil Jones, author of Exactly What to Say on the show to discuss the magic words for influence and impact. Phil entered the world of business at the tender age of 14. With nothing more than a bucket and sponge, he went from single-handedly washing cars at weekends to hiring…

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249: Uncovering the Hidden Drivers Behind Consumer Decisions, Biases, and Social influences

On this episode, we’ll be discussing the hidden drivers of consumer choice with guest expert Nika Kabiri. She has spent 25+ years studying decision-making, with 15 of those in consumer insights. She has taught Decision Science at the University of Washington, and her expertise in decision-making has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the…

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