After a long hiatus for some personal matters, we're back! We have here an unreleased episode with Alex Stiffler from August of 2023. This episode got saved from the trenches of a crashed SD card by Disk Drill. In this episode of the Champions of Small Business Podcast, we're sitting down with Alex Stiffler, the force behind our local Winding Hills & Forest Hills Stroll Magazine. Stroll is a publication dedicated to celebrating small businesses and fostering community connections. With a background in insurance sales and restoration, Alex shares her journey to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of authenticity, community, and overcoming personal and professional challenges. Key Takeaways: The Power of Community: Alex discusses the importance of building strong community connections and how Stroll Magazine aims to highlight and support small businesses within the community. Overcoming Challenges: From personal hurdles to professional obstacles, Alex shares her philosophy on moving forward and embracing growth, highlighting her transition from insurance sales to launching her own publication. Authenticity in Business: With a focus on authenticity, Alex explains why she chooses to work with businesses that align with her values and how this approach has shaped the success of Stroll Magazine. Marketing Strategies: We talk effective marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of relationship marketing and staying top-of-mind with customers through positive engagement rather than direct sales tactics. The Importance of Networking: We discuss the value of networking events for building connections, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities within the small business community. Navigating the Industry: This episode also touches on the challenges faced by small businesses, including dealing with unlicensed contractors and the importance of understanding and navigating industry regulations. Personal Growth and Success: Alex shares insights into her personal journey, discussing the importance of setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and surrounding oneself with a supportive network to achieve success. Abundance Mindset: The discussion highlights the significance of fostering an abundance mindset, celebrating others' successes, and the impact of societal perceptions on personal and professional growth. Alex's story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and authenticity in building a successful business and making a positive impact. Her insights provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to navigate the complexities of the industry while staying true to their values and vision. Connect with Us: Champions of Small Business: https://linktr.ee/champions_of_small_business Stroll Magazine: https://www.strollmag.com/locations/forest-hills-pa/ Follow Alex on Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/StrollForestHills