The Small Business School Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

In this episode of the Business Builder Series,  I’m diving into what it actually means to have a financially healthy year-end — not just filing taxes and hoping for the best. I share how to go beyond the “pray there’s no big tax bill” mindset and use your numbers as a leadership tool. This one’s part mindset, part strategy, and 100% about setting yourself up for confidence instead of chaos when year-end hits.

Key topics covered:

• The difference between a compliant year-end and a healthy one
• Five key signs your business is financially healthy
• How to avoid the year-end panic spiral
• Why year-end should be a checkpoint, not a punishment
• How to use your numbers strategically to shape next year’s goals

Challenge:

Book a 90-minute CEO meeting with yourself. Review your financials using the five key signs from this episode. Write down what’s working, what needs to change, and any questions to ask your accountant before filing. This is your chance to go into year-end confident, clear, and in control.

A clean, clear year-end doesn’t just reduce stress — it builds your confidence as a CEO. The numbers don’t have to be scary; they’re your most powerful guide for growth.

Mentioned in this episode: Faire, the largest wholesale marketplace connecting over 120,000 brands and retailers. Staci shares how Faire helps shop owners source unique products, offers flexible 60-day payment terms, and gives brands global visibility without cold pitching—creating a true win-win for small business growth.

Retailers who are new to Faire can visit www.faire.com and use code SMBSCHOOL10 at checkout for 10% off their first order.

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

Welcome back to Small Business School! In this powerful and heart-centered conversation, I’m joined by the incredible Anna Lozano — entrepreneur, mentor, and host of The Prosperity Playground podcast. Anna shares her inspiring journey of creating, growing, and selling her first company (Love Powered Co.) and how she’s now redefining success through alignment, intuition, and energetics. We talk about what it really looks like to build a business that feels as good as it performs — one that supports your energy, lifestyle, and purpose instead of draining it. 

Key topics covered:

• Anna’s entrepreneurial evolution, from corporate life to network marketing to building and selling Love Powered Co.
• What it truly means to build a business that matches your energy, values, and season of life
• What happens when you’ve “made it,” but you’re still figuring out who you are next
• Why stillness and space are secret weapons for creativity and clarity
• How to move from force and burnout to ease and alignment
• Creating a new definition of success, one that’s deeply personal, intentional, and sustainable

Anna’s story is an inspiring reminder that success isn’t about how hard you grind — it’s about how deeply you align. When you stop trying to keep up with everyone else’s version of success and start tuning into your own rhythm, everything changes. You’ll not only build a business that thrives but a life that feels truly joyful, free, and abundant.

Mentioned in this episode: Faire, the largest wholesale marketplace connecting over 120,000 brands and retailers. Staci shares how Faire helps shop owners source unique products, offers flexible 60-day payment terms, and gives brands global visibility without cold pitching—creating a true win-win for small business growth.

Retailers who are new to Faire can visit www.faire.com and use code SMBSCHOOL10 at checkout for 10% off their first order.

Connect with Anna:

Instagram: @_annalozano

Website: annalozano.com

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

In this heartfelt episode, I chat with Rebecca, founder of The Detour Co, a natural skincare brand rooted in mindfulness, intentional living, and self-connection. What started as a side project in her kitchen has grown into a brand that’s not just about beautiful skin — it’s about helping women slow down, reconnect, and nurture themselves through simple daily rituals.

Key topics covered:

• How Rebecca went from yoga and meditation teacher to skincare founder — and why her brand is so much more than just products.
• The philosophy behind “from the land, not the lab,” and how nature inspires everything she creates.
• Staying grounded while growing a business and raising kids (and how meditation keeps her centered).
• The importance of community and why finding “your people” changes everything in entrepreneurship.
• How brand clarity and messaging often come from conversations, connection, and simply showing up.

At the end of the day, building a business that feels good matters just as much as building one that looks good — because when you’re aligned and connected to your purpose, everything else flows naturally.

Mentioned in this episode: Faire, the largest wholesale marketplace connecting over 120,000 brands and retailers. Staci shares how Faire helps shop owners source unique products, offers flexible 60-day payment terms, and gives brands global visibility without cold pitching—creating a true win-win for small business growth.

Retailers who are new to Faire can visit www.faire.com and use code SMBSCHOOL10 at checkout for 10% off their first order.

Connect with Rebecca:

• Instagram: thedetourco.muskoka
• Website: https://thedetourco.com/pages/facial (use code ACADEMY for free shipping on any order. Expires 12/31/2025)

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

In this episode, I dive into a mindset shift that I believe can transform your business and lead to a lot of growth.

I often hear small business owners calling their businesses their ‘baby’ but we want our business to grow and develop beyond the stage of constant care and supervision.

My mom used to always say kids needed two things: roots to grow and develop and wings to blossom and be launched. With a balance of these two things we can find ways to nurture our business’s mission while also creating the space for it to thrive independently. Let’s explore how!

Topics Covered:

• Roots vs. Wings: Understanding the foundational roots (mission, vision, and values) and giving your business the wings it needs to grow without you.
• Avoiding Bottlenecking: How treating your business like a “baby” can hinder its growth and limit your impact.
• The power of delegating and building a self-sustaining team to allow your business to run smoothly without your constant input.
• Solo Provider Perspective: Why this might not apply to everyone – crafting a business that works uniquely for you is the ultimate goal.
• Embracing roots and wings to find true freedom, both in time and in making a bigger impact.

Are you giving your business roots AND wings? 

This episode is a reminder to think about your business not as a ‘baby’ but as a child that you want to nurture and launch into independence!

DM me on Instagram if you have questions! 

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

Welcome back to Small Business School! In this special in person episode, Mallory Rowan and I dive deep into our shared experiences of neurodivergence and autism. Mallory is a multi passionate entrepreneur, season founder and digital creator and coach. Together we discuss how neurodivergence shows up in our everyday lives and how it impacts our businesses. 

We share the struggles, the funny moments, and the practical strategies that make life as neurodivergent entrepreneurs serve as a strength for our businesses!

Topics Covered:

• The journey of self-diagnosis and the impact of social media in discovering neurodivergence.
• How autism and ADHD traits influence creativity and business approaches, including the need for a balance between structure and freedom.
• Challenges in talking about neurodivergence with family and friends.
• Myths about autism and ADHD.
• Understanding Masking.
• The pressure to dress and behave a certain way, and strategies for finding comfort and authenticity in professional settings.
• Managing sensory overload, respecting personal energy levels, and prioritizing self-care to show up as your best self.
• The empowerment that comes from understanding how your brain works.
• Reducing shame around neurodivergence by owning quirks and openly communicating needs.

We hope this episode inspires you to embrace your needs in life and business and use them to show up at your best, in your unique way!

Connect with Mallory!

Mallory’s Links:
Instagram
Mallory’s Exclusive Business Tips
1:1 Coaching with Mallory

Mentioned In Episode:
Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

Today on Small Business school we're diving deep into one of the most essential skills to develop for any small business owner: marketing. 

Although often a second thought, understanding the ins and outs of marketing can transform the way your business reaches and resonates with customers. Let's talk about why learning the foundations of marketing is crucial, and how you can get started on the right path!

Topics Covered:

• Why marketing skills are crucial and why it's more than just social media tactics.
• When to delegate and when to learn a new skill.
• Basics of branding, copywriting, and creating a compelling message.
• Recommended resources to build marketing skills.
• How to test, track, and measure the success of your marketing efforts.

I challenge you to invest some time in understanding marketing, and learn a new skill!

Understanding the big picture of it will make a huge difference in your business for the long run!

Episode with Alex Cattoni - Mastering Copywriting: The Key to Standing Out in a Noisy Market

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

In today’s episode of Small Business School, I’m thrilled to chat with Jen Kinal. Jen is the owner of a successful social media agency, helping clients elevate their marketing campaigns and achieve their goals through strategic social media. She is also the founder and creator of The Bold Founders, a thriving community for women in business to connect, learn from inspiring speakers, and support one another in growing and succeeding in their businesses. Jen’s passion for creating memorable events shines through as she shares how she transforms visions into experiences, all while balancing the creativity with the realities of budgeting. Jen also shares her journey, the value of community, and how to lead your business with intention. Tune in to the amazing conversation! 

Topics Covered:

• Jen's first venture into event planning, the highs and lows of the business, and the lessons learned.
• The importance of curating an event experience that aligns with your brand and leaves a lasting impression.
• Practical tips for balancing creativity and budget during event planning.
• Intimate, high-quality events versus larger gatherings.
• The power of starting events with vision boards.
• Jen’s pivot, how COVID-19 impacted her events business and led her to build a new venture with recurring revenue and location freedom.
• Jen’s mindset on charging for her worth, the journey to gaining confidence, and how she pitched her dream clients.
• Creating intentional social media strategies.

The impact of the Bold Founders Collective and the joy of women celebrating and supporting each other.

Lead with your heart. Strategy is vital, but it's your heart and authenticity that people truly connect with, reach out and connect with Jen!

Jen’s Links:
Instagram
Bold Founders Community
Bold Founders Website
Jen Kinal Website

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

Today I’m recording live with some good friends and inspiring entrepreneurs. This episode features Carly Ottaway, Kim Hiebert, Janette Downie, and a little bit of Laura Sinclair, live from our spa getaway. We are talking about leveling up in our business, finding balance and self care in business, and answering the question together, is business personal?

This conversation is so much fun and filled with years of experience and wisdom, you don’t want to miss it!

Topics Covered:

• Reflections from a few days away at the Spa.
• The Importance of doing business in community
• Leveling up your business to operate without you.
• Finding balance and time to rest in entrepreneurship.
• Outsourcing customer service as a founder to help with perspective and team development.
• Tips and different philosophies for hiring.
• Is business personal? How to separate yourself from your business.
• Protecting your energy and growth.
• And so much more!

Connect with my inspiring entrepreneurial friends!

Guest Links:

Carly Ottaway:
Instagram
Web of Words

Janette Downie
Cool, Calm & Rich Podcast
Instagram
LinkedIn

Kim Hiebert
Mr. & Mrs. CEO Podcast
Instagram

Laura Sinclair
This Mother Means Business Podcast
Instagram

Mentioned In Episode:
The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

In this episode of Small Business School, I’m diving into a powerful conversation inspired by Mel Robbins on the science and art of manifesting. No matter what you believe of the science or energy of manifestation, there’s something in this for you!

Let’s talk about breaking through our mental blocks in business and eliminating the stories we tell ourselves about our limitations.

Topics Covered:

• The impact of believing in the possibility of your life and business.
• Identifying limiting beliefs and challenging them to achieve more.
• How our mindset stories influence our business and money habits.
• Practical steps to shift from self-doubt to action.
• Where are you holding yourself back?

The only thing standing in the way of what we want is our belief that we can't have it. Take this as a challenge!

Question the stories you tell about yourself and choose new ones that align with the life and business you truly want!

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.

Today on Small Business School I am talking with Kristy Miller, the founder and CEO of The Scented Market, a Canadian candle and wellness brand known for its eco-friendly, beautifully crafted products. From humble beginnings pouring candles on her kitchen stove, Kristy has grown her business into a multi-location success, even capturing the attention of all six dragons on CBC’s Dragons’ Den. A dedicated entrepreneur and mom of three, Kristy is passionate about inspiring others through her journey of resilience, creativity, and commitment to quality and community.

Together we discuss Kristy’s early beginnings in entrepreneurship, journey of growing a business while managing costs, and building a community on social media!

Topics Covered:

• How Kristy transformed family doubts into motivation for her business journey.
• The mindset shift that helped Kristy grow her business with purpose and profit.
• Tips on outsourcing tasks you’re not great at to strengthen your brand.
• How Kristy ensures profitability by negotiating with suppliers and maintaining local production.
• The importance of negotiating with suppliers and staying lean for consistent profit margins.
• Lessons learned from Dragon’s Den and keeping close track of your numbers. 
• Building a loyal online community and the power of transparency and authenticity in social media.
• Challenges of expanding into the U.S. market as a Canadian business.

This episode is for any entrepreneur or founder looking to borrow belief that commitment to your vision, numbers and community will pay off for your business!

Check out The Scented Market!

Kristy’s Links:
Website:
Use Code: 'SBSPODCAST15' for 15% off Scented Market Products!
Instagram
Scented Market Dragon’s Den Trailer

Staci's Links:
Instagram. Website.