In this episode of Small Business Quick Wins, host Jay Schwedelson interviews Amanda Zantal-Wiener, head of content at Thryv, about creating engaging content for small businesses. They discuss practical strategies for content creation, understanding your audience, and leveraging authentic storytelling to connect with potential customers.

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Best Moments:

(01:14) Creating engaging content for small businesses

(04:27) Three core pillars for creating interesting content

(05:29) Identifying where potential customers spend time online

(07:43) The importance of not assuming customer knowledge

(08:18) The value of authentic, lo-fi content over polished production

(09:47) Being yourself and understanding your professional capacity

(11:37) Remembering why you started your business when creating content

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Guest Bio:

Amanda Zantal-Wiener is the head of content at Thryv, a platform for small businesses. She has an extensive background in content creation, having previously led content at Search Engine Journal and served as a deputy editor at HubSpot. Amanda's experience spans various industries, including food writing and coverage of the indie rap and hip-hop scene. With a passion for storytelling and helping small businesses succeed, Amanda brings valuable insights to content creation strategies for entrepreneurs and business owners.

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Amanda's Playlist:

Listen to Amanda's Spotify playlist here.

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In this episode of Small Business Quick Wins, host Jay Schwedelson discusses three silent killers of small businesses that owners might not be aware of. He provides actionable tips to address these issues and improve customer engagement and sales opportunities.

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Best Moments:

(01:31) The importance of quick follow-up after collecting customer information

(03:27) The impact of form complexity on customer engagement

(05:02) Website loading speed and its effect on customer retention

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In this episode of Small Business Quick Wins, host Jay Schwedelson discusses the impact of the upcoming presidential election on small business marketing efforts and provides strategies for navigating this challenging period.

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Best Moments:

(01:01) Impact of presidential election on marketing effectiveness

(02:35) Expected drop in email open rates and click-through rates

(03:29) Three options for communication during election season

(04:36) Avoiding mentions of 2024 in marketing materials

(05:10) Leveraging 2025 in marketing messages for better performance

(06:04) Timeline for marketing performance normalization post-election

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In this episode of Small Business Quick Wins, host Jay Schwedelson interviews Nick Friedman, co-founder of College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving. They discuss building a successful business, creating a strong company culture, and the importance of core values in attracting and retaining talent.

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Best Moments:

(02:06) The origin story of College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving

(06:48) The importance of core values in business

(09:05) Daily stand-up huddles and their impact on company culture

(11:07) Hiring practices and aligning with company values

(13:54) The importance of being selective with franchisees and clients

(16:13) Nick's personal experiences as a mover and transitioning to leadership

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Guest Bio:

Nick Friedman is the co-founder of College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving, a franchise-based moving and junk removal company. He has been featured on Shark Tank, Millionaire Matchmaker, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. His company has been recognized on the Inc. 500 list, and he has been named in the 30 under 30 and 40 under 40 lists. Nick is known for his expertise in building company culture and growing successful businesses.

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Click HERE to get this $1 offer for 1 month using Thryv's Business Center!

In this episode of Small Business Quick Wins, host Jay Schwedelson interviews TJ Cantwell, owner of Studio 28, a fine jewelry, piercings, and custom tattoo studio in New York City. They discuss the importance of customer reviews for small businesses and TJ's unique approach to handling both positive and negative feedback.

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Best Moments:

(01:56) TJ's background and transition from finance to tattoo studio owner

(03:15) The importance of prioritizing customer reviews for small businesses

(05:46) TJ's approach to gathering and managing reviews

(08:24) The philosophy that "bad reviews are not bad"

(10:38) The importance of responding to every review, especially negative ones

(14:10) How quickly to react to and respond to reviews

(18:24) TJ's advice for first-time tattoo customers

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Guest Bio

TJ Cantwell is the owner of Studio 28, a fine jewelry, piercings, and custom tattoo studio in New York City. With over 14 years of experience in the industry, TJ transitioned from a career in finance to become a successful small business owner. He is known for his innovative approach to customer service and his expertise in leveraging customer reviews to grow his business.

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Click HERE to get this $1 offer for 1 month using Thryv's Business Center!

In this episode of Small Business Quick Wins, host Jay Schwedelson interviews Craig Jooste, president of Genie Senior Services, about effective demand generation tactics and strategies for driving business awareness in the senior services industry. They explore the importance of marketing technology, CRM systems, and the "foundational 4" system for business success.

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Key Discussion Points:

(00:01:56) Introduction to Craig Jooste and Genie Senior Services: Craig shares the story behind Genie Senior Services and how the business helps seniors during the relocation process.

(04:03) Overview of Genie Senior Services' Business Model: Craig dives into the business model and the key areas that make the franchise successful.

(08:24) Importance of Bedside Manner in Hiring: The role of compassion and communication when hiring for senior services.

(10:39) Marketing Strategies for Genie Senior Services: Craig discusses how they raise awareness and generate demand for their services.

(15:54) Leveraging Marketing Technology and CRM Systems: The role of technology and CRM systems in driving business efficiency and growth.

(17:20) The "Foundational 4" System for Business Success: Craig explains the foundational pillars that contribute to long-term business success.

(19:32) How to Connect with Craig Jooste: Where listeners can learn more about Genie Senior Services and connect with Craig.

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Guest Bio:

Craig Jooste is the president of Genie Senior Services, a franchise specializing in senior relocation services. Originally from South Africa, Craig moved to Canada and has a background in franchising, having worked with 1-800-Got-Junk? and launching Wow 1 Day Painting. He co-founded The Local Handyman Group and now leads Genie Senior Services, focusing on helping seniors relocate with care and professionalism.

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Click HERE to get this $1 offer for 1 month using Thryv's Business Center!

In this episode, host Jay Schwedelson sits down with Brian Luciani, Chief Growth Officer at SMB Franchise Advisors and Stadium Ventures. They dive into the world of franchising and explore its potential for small businesses, covering everything from business readiness to trending franchise categories.

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Best Moments:

(01:35) Brian shares his journey into franchising, starting from his teenage years and evolving into a career in investment banking and venture capital

(03:36) Who franchising is suitable for and what business readiness looks like

(05:52) How to evaluate whether a business is ripe for franchising

(08:25) Current trends in the franchising world and which categories are gaining popularity

(10:22) Economics of Franchise Ownership: The financial dynamics of owning single vs. multiple franchise units

(11:03) The importance of franchisee profitability to the overall success of the franchisor

(12:25) Exploring the complexities and opportunities in operating multiple units and brands within the franchising ecosystem

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Guest Bio:

Brian Luciani is the Chief Growth Officer at SMB Franchise Advisors and Stadium Ventures. He brings a wealth of experience in franchising, investment banking, and venture capital, having been involved in the industry since he was 14 years old. Brian and his team at SMB Franchise Advisors have successfully helped over 550 brands franchise their businesses, providing invaluable expertise in growing franchise systems across various industries.

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Click HERE to get this $1 offer for 1 month using Thryv's Business Center!

In this episode, host Jay Schwedelson discusses referral marketing with Stephanie Love from Thryv.

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Best Moments:

(00:56) Jay and Stephanie discuss the importance of referral marketing and its benefits

(02:04) Stephanie explains what referral program marketing is and its effectiveness

(03:04) The first step to setting up a referral program is understanding the incentive

(04:23) The second step is ensuring a way to track referrals

(06:43) The third step is clearly communicating the referral program to customers

(09:03) The lifetime value of a referred customer is 16% higher than a non-referred customer

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Try Thryv For $1?!?

Click HERE to get this $1 offer for 1 month using Thryv's Business Center!