Episodes

  • Stop Guessing: How Market Research, Curiosity & Better Questions Drive Better Business Decisions

    Stop Guessing: How Market Research, Curiosity & Better Questions Drive Better Business Decisions
    Jan 7 2026
    In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood sits down with Chris Bonbright, founder of Curiosity Consulting, to unpack why curiosity—not assumptions—is the most underrated business advantage today. Chris shares hard-earned insights from decades in market research, explaining why most businesses confuse symptoms with real problems, how to tell the difference between KPIs and true insight, and why “pressing the easy button” (including over-reliance on AI) can actually stall growth. You’ll learn: Why better information leads to better decisions—and better results The difference between reacting to data vs. understanding it Why demographics are losing power and values, attitudes, and beliefs matter more What the emerging “anti-algorithm” trend means for marketing and customer relationships (including insights from Mintel) How small, consistent research beats panic-driven decisions every time Why research should guide action—not replace leadership If your business feels reactive, unclear, or stuck chasing metrics without real traction, this conversation will reset how you think about data, strategy, and decision-making. 🎧 Listen now and rediscover the power of asking why. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 7 mins
  • Isolation: Reset or Self-Destruct?

    Isolation: Reset or Self-Destruct?
    Nov 18 2025
    Isolation is sneaky. Entrepreneurs often call it “focus time” or “cocooning,” but it can quietly turn into loneliness, stagnation, and burnout. In this Christy’s Corner episode of Small Business Success Talk, Christy Smallwood breaks down the science, the soul, and the strategy behind solitude—why you need it sometimes, and when it starts working against you. 👉 Key insight: “Isolation becomes incubation when it’s chosen for restoration—but infection when it’s triggered by shame or pride.” 🎧 Listen now to learn how to re-enter your community stronger, clearer, and more whole. #Entrepreneurship #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #SmallBusinessSuccessTalk #ChristySmallwood #MentalHealthAtWork Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    43 mins
  • Movements, Marketing & Midlife Mojo: The We Do Not Care Club Effect

    Movements, Marketing & Midlife Mojo: The We Do Not Care Club Effect
    Oct 15 2025
    This week on Christy’s Corner, I unpack how one frustrated woman accidentally sparked a viral movement — and how small business owners can do the same. If you’ve ever felt overworked, underpaid, or simply over it, this one’s for you. From marketing myths to the messy middle, this episode is equal parts real talk, laughter, and strategy. 💡 Topics: How movements really start The “MVP” mindset: show up, even when it’s messy Why emotion and authenticity beat algorithms every time The Being Super Method (and how to activate your inner hero) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    49 mins
  • AI, Cybersecurity & Tech Made Simple for Small Business | Jeff Chandler of ZJAK Technologies

    AI, Cybersecurity & Tech Made Simple for Small Business | Jeff Chandler of ZJAK Technologies
    Sep 19 2025
    Technology doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood sits down with repeat guest Jeff Chandler, owner of ZJAK Technologies, to unpack the world of AI, cybersecurity, and small business tech solutions. Jeff shares insights on protecting your business from cybercriminals, avoiding shiny-object syndrome with new tools, and keeping technology practical and effective for everyday operations. From AI-powered platforms to the basics of staying safe online, this conversation is packed with real-world tips for entrepreneurs and small business owners who want to scale with confidence. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right tools, when to outsource, and how to keep things simple in a noisy tech world—this episode is for you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Fighting for Hemp: Dee Dee Taylor on Kentucky Laws, Integrity, and 502 Hemp’s Future

    Fighting for Hemp: Dee Dee Taylor on Kentucky Laws, Integrity, and 502 Hemp’s Future
    Aug 21 2025
    Dee Dee Taylor, owner of 502 Hemp and President of the Kentucky Hemp Association, returns to Small Business Success Talk for an update on the challenges and victories in the hemp industry. From Kentucky legislation to federal battles, Dee Dee shares the inside story of lobbying, integrity in business, and why hemp products matter for both customers and communities. This candid conversation dives into entrepreneurship, politics, and perseverance in a shifting industry. If you’ve ever wondered how small business owners fight back against powerful lobbyists—or how passion and integrity keep a business moving forward—this is the episode you need to hear. Join the Success Builders Launchpad community HERE: https://smallbusinesssuccesstalk.biz/ THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR https://502hemp.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    58 mins
  • Finding Clarity in Chaos – How to Lead, Pivot, and Thrive in Business & Life

    Finding Clarity in Chaos – How to Lead, Pivot, and Thrive in Business & Life
    Aug 14 2025
    In this special “Christy’s Corner” episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood opens up about navigating one of the most chaotic seasons of her business and personal life. From unexpected financial hits and rebranding on the fly, to rebuilding from scratch and letting go of her team, Christy shares real, unfiltered insights on finding calm, making bold decisions, and leading with clarity through change. Packed with practical tools—like her simple yet powerful “Centering Protocol”—and seasoned with hard-earned wisdom, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone facing uncertainty. Learn how to reset, refocus, and take the next best step… even when the world feels upside down. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 mins
  • From Eyepiece to Evidence: Telscreen's Tech Transforming Eye Exams.

    From Eyepiece to Evidence: Telscreen's Tech Transforming Eye Exams.
    Jul 24 2025
    This week on Small Business Success Talk, I sat down with Kent and Wes Harris of TelScreen—a Louisville-based company helping eye doctors communicate more effectively with their patients. Their story includes humble beginnings, a powerful medical save involving a brain tumor, and some surprising laughs. They’re proof that innovation doesn’t always come from Silicon Valley—it often starts with a question from a single doctor and a willingness to figure it out. 🎧 Listen in to hear about: Why today’s eye doctors need better communication tools How TelScreen’s tech fits with the practice, not just in it Their hilarious “tick in the eye” story (yes, really) And how their systems support evidence-based care—without hype. 🎙️ Episode Link: https://smallbusinesssuccesstalk.biz/s3e10-from-eyepiece-to-evidence-telscreens-tech-transforming-eye-exams/ #TelScreen #SmallBusinessSuccessTalk #HealthcareInnovation #OptometryTech #StartupStories Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    49 mins
  • S3E9: From Allergies to Entrepreneurship: How Two Global Leaders Built Bodhi Salt Wellness Center

    S3E9: From Allergies to Entrepreneurship: How Two Global Leaders Built Bodhi Salt Wellness Center
    Jul 10 2025
    What happens when two powerhouse women—one a former Nestlé executive and certified leadership coach, the other a yoga instructor and education leader—meet in Louisville, KY and both get knocked flat by allergy season? They build a wellness center unlike anything else in the region. In this episode of Small Business Success Talk, host Christy Smallwood sits down with Anna Shulgina and Dasha Grankina, co-founders of Bodhi Salt, a luxurious-yet-approachable 2,400 sq.ft. wellness center designed to help families heal naturally through salt therapy, cedar steam barrels, red light therapy, kids programming, and more. 🌍 Learn how their global experiences, scientific approaches, and holistic traditions came together to create a business that’s thriving—with purpose. 💡 Get their take on entrepreneurship, parenting, leadership, and why building a business with heart (and salt!) matters now more than ever. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 11 mins