The How of Business - How to start, run & grow a small business.
The How of Business - how to start, run and grow a small business - is a weekly show for aspiring Entrepreneurs and existing Small Business Owners. If you are looking for actionable advice, tips and techniques on how to start (including launching or buying your first small business), run and grow your small business, this is the podcast for you! In each episode we either discuss a business topic, or interview an existing small business owner or business service provider. The How of Business is hosted by Henry Lopez who shares the knowledge and experience he has acquired over his corporate and entrepreneurial careers.
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R245 - Two Responsibilities
06/02/2025
R245 - Two Responsibilities
The two most essential responsibilities every successful small business owner must embrace: making decisions and accepting personal mistakes. Show Notes Page: While the list of responsibilities is long for any entrepreneur, these two are foundational to the success of a small business owner or entrepreneur. On this episode of The How of Business podcast, Henry Lopez shares personal insights and experiences to help aspiring and current business owners understand why the courage to decide, and the humility to own up to missteps, are traits that separate doers from dreamers. From the pressures of leadership to the fear of failure, Henry offers motivation and practical advice to help you stay on track even when your confidence is shaken. If you're considering business ownership, or already on the journey, this episode will inspire you to step up with confidence and resilience. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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568 – Own the Spotlight with Linda Ugelow
05/26/2025
568 – Own the Spotlight with Linda Ugelow
Own the Spotlight - practical strategies small business owners can use to turn public speaking from dread to delight, emphasizing the power of storytelling and authentic communication. Show Notes Page: In this episode, Henry Lopez speaks with Linda Ugelow, author of Delight in the Limelight and an expert speaking confidence coach, about overcoming the fear of public speaking. Linda shares her personal journey from anxiety to mastery, highlighting how past experiences, especially in childhood, often create deep-rooted fears. She reveals practical strategies entrepreneurs can use to turn public speaking from dread to delight, emphasizing the power of storytelling and authentic communication. Linda also introduces her proven "7 Preparation Rituals," designed to reduce anxiety and help speakers deliver impactful presentations. Tune in to learn actionable techniques to boost your speaking confidence and authentically connect with your audience. How can small business owners overcome public speaking fears? Small business owners can overcome speaking fears by identifying the root cause of their anxiety, using storytelling to engage authentically, and preparing effectively through visualization. Why is storytelling important in public speaking? Storytelling creates authentic connections, captures audience attention, and helps speakers overcome fears by shifting focus from self-consciousness to delivering valuable messages. What are effective public speaking preparation techniques? Effective techniques include visualization, understanding potential challenges, healing past speaking traumas, voice training, and practical rehearsal strategies. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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567 - Focus Without Burnout with Skye Waterson
05/19/2025
567 - Focus Without Burnout with Skye Waterson
Focus Without Burnout: Smarter Strategies for Entrepreneurs. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business, host Henry Lopez is joined by ADHD strategist and coach Skye Waterson to explore powerful strategies for entrepreneurs who struggle with focus, burnout, or executive dysfunction. Skye and Henry break down how to work with your brain instead of against it, using tools like time blocking, effective delegation, and Skye’s free “focus filter” to bring clarity and momentum to your workweek. Henry and Skye also discuss why finding a non-business hobby matters for stimulation, how to prioritize tasks with intention, and ways to turn long-term goals into manageable weekly actions. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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566 – Good Debt Bad Debt
05/12/2025
566 – Good Debt Bad Debt
Good Debt Bad Debt: How to Borrow Strategically in Business. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business, host Henry Lopez reframes how small business owners think about debt. While consumer debt is often harmful and emotionally charged, Henry makes the case that strategic borrowing, or good debt, can be an essential growth tool for entrepreneurs. Henry walks through key differences between personal and business debt, outlines how to identify smart uses of debt (like funding revenue-generating assets or covering working capital gaps), and warns against the dangers of relying on debt to prop up an unprofitable business model. Also learn about core financial concepts including leverage ratios, opportunity cost, and the time value of money, and how to apply them when making borrowing decisions. Henry shares practical tips, such as using low-interest loans over high-interest credit cards, keeping operating reserves, and not rushing to pay off good debt early if it’s working for you. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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565 - From Manager to Leader with James Turk
05/05/2025
565 - From Manager to Leader with James Turk
Transitioning from manager to leader is more than a title change - it’s a mindset shift. In this episode, executive coach James Turk shares insights from his book The Giving Game, including his F45 Playbook for new leaders. Show Notes Page: Whether you’re stepping into leadership yourself or supporting someone who is, this conversation is packed with practical advice to lead with influence, not just authority. Drawing from decades of experience in leadership development and coaching, James introduces his F45 Playbook - a roadmap for the first 45 days in a leadership role. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, relationship-building, and aligning with a greater purpose. Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role yourself or promoting someone into one, James explains how to approach the transition thoughtfully and sustainably. One of the core themes of the conversation is the power of leading with influence rather than relying solely on authority. James discusses the challenges that often arise when new managers are promoted from within—especially when they have to supervise former peers—and provides a framework for navigating that shift effectively. He also shares tips on delegation, developing team trust, and fostering a positive culture through clear definitions and expectations. From running a virtual team to supporting team member growth, James outlines what it takes to build a thriving organization rooted in performance and purpose. He also shares the origins of The Turk Group and how his varied career journey—from art galleries to acting to executive coaching—informs his approach to leadership. This episode is essential listening for any small business owner seeking to equip new managers, clarify their own leadership style, or build a stronger, more empowered team. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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R242 - Small Business Systems
04/28/2025
R242 - Small Business Systems
The essentials of Small Business Systems with host Henry Lopez. Show Notes Page: Building a self-managed business starts with solid systems. In this short solo episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez shares practical advice on how to develop, implement, and improve the systems that help small businesses scale, delegate, and operate consistently. Whether you're just starting out or need to escape the chaos of doing everything yourself, this episode is your roadmap to operational freedom. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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564: The Courage Gap with Margie Warrell
04/14/2025
564: The Courage Gap with Margie Warrell
The Courage Gap - Overcoming fear and self-doubt to take bold action in your business and life. Show Notes Page: Dr. Margie Warrell joins Henry Lopez to explore how fear often holds small business owners back—not because of what they can't do, but because of what they aren't doing. Margie's latest book, The Courage Gap, unpacks how entrepreneurs and professionals can close the gap between their potential and their current actions by rewiring how they think, behave, and react to fear. She shares a 5-step framework for braver action, addresses how to navigate imposter syndrome, and emphasizes the importance of learning from failure rather than being defined by it. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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563: How I Use AI
04/07/2025
563: How I Use AI
How I use AI (Artificial Intelligence) in my small business. Show Notes Page: AI is no longer optional – it's a game-changer for small business owners. In this episode, Henry Lopez shares how he uses AI tools like ChatGPT to increase productivity, streamline content creation, automate workflows, and improve client services. If you're still on the sidelines, this episode shares examples of how you can start using AI in your business today. In this episode of The How of Business podcast, Henry Lopez provides a behind-the-scenes look at how he’s actively using AI tools and large language models to enhance productivity in his small business operations, podcast production, coaching sessions, and planning. Episode Breakdown: Podcast Content Workflow – Using ChatGPT for episode planning, summarizing, and LinkedIn post creation. Zoom AI Companion – Summarizing coaching sessions and highlighting action items. Rev.com AI Transcription – Turning audio into text for content reuse and SEO. Prompt Engineering – How better prompts get better ChatGPT results. Document Review – Using ChatGPT to interpret and summarize agreements. Business Planning – Creating business plans with ChatGPT acting as a thinking partner. Automation with Zapier – Connecting platforms like Patreon and Mailchimp. AI in Marketing Tools – Features in Mailchimp, Canva, and CRM platforms. Advice for Beginners – Start small and experiment with the tools you already use. Top 3 Takeaways: AI isn't just for big companies—small business owners can start using it today. ChatGPT and other tools save hours by providing content, summaries, and insights. Effective prompting is key to unlocking the true power of AI tools. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run, grow and exit your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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562: Skills for Success
03/24/2025
562: Skills for Success
What are the essential Skills for Success in small business and life? Show Notes Page: In this episode, Henry Lopez and guest co-host David Begin break down the critical skills and traits that lead to long-term success. From self-discipline to curiosity, they explore practical insights to help entrepreneurs and professionals thrive. Henry and David discuss the key skills and personal traits that they’ve observed in successful business owners and leaders. Drawing from personal experiences and coaching insights, they share lessons on resilience, adaptability, and leadership. Episode Summary: Defining Success – How personal and professional goals shape our definition of success. Self-Discipline & Sacrifice – Why delayed gratification and persistence are critical. Being Teachable & Coachable – The role of seeking mentorship, coaching, and lifelong learning. Curiosity & Asking Great Questions – How curiosity fuels innovation and decision-making. Making & Owning Decisions – The importance of embracing accountability. Persistence & Resilience – Overcoming setbacks and learning from failure. Self-Awareness & Leadership – Understanding strengths, weaknesses, and personal growth. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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561: Cyber Security
03/17/2025
561: Cyber Security
Cyber Security for small businesses, with IT services and cybersecurity experts Gary Pica. Show Notes Page: Cybersecurity threats are a growing risk for small businesses. In this episode, Henry Lopez speaks with Gary Pica, a pioneer in IT services and cybersecurity, about practical strategies to protect small businesses from cyber threats. Learn how to reduce risks, implement strong security measures, and plan for potential cyberattacks. Gary Pica is a pioneer in IT services, having built one of the first managed service providers (MSP) in 1996. After scaling his business into a multi-million-dollar company, he sold it and dedicated his career to helping IT service providers grow and improve cybersecurity solutions. Gary is now General Manager of TruMethods at Kaseya, where he has helped over 2,000 IT companies build profitable, scalable businesses. Episode Breakdown: The increasing risk of cyber threats for small businesses Why small businesses are prime targets for hackers Common cybersecurity mistakes business owners make The importance of outsourcing IT security to managed service providers Essential security measures every small business should implement How cybercriminals exploit small business vulnerabilities Building a cybersecurity incident response plan The role of cybersecurity awareness training for employees Top 3 Takeaways: Cyberattacks are inevitable—small businesses must plan as if they will be targeted. Basic security measures like multi-factor authentication (MFA) and backups can prevent major breaches. Outsourcing IT security to a Managed Service Provider (MSP) ensures expert-level protection. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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560: 4 Franchise Benefits
03/11/2025
560: 4 Franchise Benefits
If you are considering a franchise business, then look for the 4 Franchise Benefits. Show Notes Page: Henry Lopez breaks down four key benefits a franchise should offer to ensure success. From proven systems to strong branding, this episode explores what to look for when evaluating a franchise opportunity. In this episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez shares insights from his years of franchise ownership and consulting to highlight four essential benefits of franchising. Whether you're exploring a new franchise or evaluating an opportunity, this episode will help you make an informed decision. Download the “4 Franchise Benefits” guide from the show notes page for this episode. A franchise should offer you these four benefits: Proven Systems – A structured, repeatable business model to follow. Brand Strength – Leveraging brand awareness and reputation for growth. Leverage & Buying Power – Access to better deals and resources than independent owners. Franchisee Network – A community of supportive and experienced business owners. “A great franchise should offer you a roadmap to success.” — Henry Lopez Top Takeaways: A good franchise provides comprehensive systems and training to set you up for success. Brand recognition can be a major advantage but evaluate its strength in your market. The potential leverage of economies of scale is a critical franchise benefit to evaluate. The network of franchisees is an invaluable resource for learning and growth. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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559: 5 Reasons Your Business Won't Grow
03/03/2025
559: 5 Reasons Your Business Won't Grow
Five major challenges that prevent small businesses from scaling. Henry shares practical solutions that small business owners can implement to break through growth barriers and create a scalable, profitable small business. Show Notes Page: From financial constraints to owner dependency, this episode offers actionable strategies to help you achieve sustainable growth. In this episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez explores five major challenges that prevent small businesses from scaling. He shares practical solutions that business owners can implement to break through growth barriers and create a scalable, profitable business. Episode Breakdown: 5 Reasons Your Small Business Won't Grow. Lack of a Clear Strategy – The importance of a structured business plan. Financial Constraints – Managing cash flow, pricing, and operational costs effectively. Lack of Systems – Why automating and streamlining processes is key. Owner Dependency – How to delegate and build a self-sustaining business. Marketing & Sales Challenges – Strategies to create consistent lead generation. Top 3 Takeaways: A clear strategy & defined goals are essential for long-term business success. Cash flow management & proper pricing ensure sustainable profitability. Effective delegation & process automation help businesses grow beyond the owner’s capacity. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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558: Outsourcing Your Back Office with Dida Clifton
02/24/2025
558: Outsourcing Your Back Office with Dida Clifton
Outsourcing your back-office operations with Dida Clifton, founder and CEO of The Office Squad. She shares how outsourcing key operational tasks can free up time for small business owners to focus on growth. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez welcomes Dida Clifton, the founder and CEO of The Office Squad. They discuss how small businesses can improve efficiency by outsourcing back-office operations, Dida’s military-inspired approach to structure and processes, and the impact of delegating bookkeeping and administrative tasks. Dida Clifton is a business owner, entrepreneur, and efficiency expert with over 23 years of experience in supporting small business owners. As the founder of The Office Squad, she brings military discipline and operational structure to help businesses streamline their back-office operations. Dida is passionate about helping entrepreneurs regain control of their businesses by providing outsourced bookkeeping, administrative support, and operational solutions. Outsourcing Your Back Office: Dida’s journey from the Air Force to entrepreneurship Why structured operations are critical for small business success The biggest back-office challenges small businesses face The role of bookkeeping and why it’s more than just accounting How outsourcing back-office tasks can free up time for business owners How The Office Squad ensures financial security and prevents fraud Why hybrid work models can be more effective than fully remote teams The long-term benefits of outsourcing operations to prepare for growth or sale Top 3 Takeaways: Small business owners should focus on growth while delegating administrative and bookkeeping tasks to experts. Operational structure and bookkeeping are key to business success, not just tax compliance. Outsourcing back-office functions can reduce risk, improve efficiency, and make a business more attractive for future sale. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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557: High-Performance Teams with Vicky Brown
02/24/2025
557: High-Performance Teams with Vicky Brown
Building and sustaining a high-performance team is critical for small business success. High-Performance Teams with Vicky Brown, founder of Idomeneo Enterprises, an HR consultancy that helps business owners develop strong, engaged teams. Show Notes Page: In this episode, Henry Lopez talks with Vicky Brown, founder of Idomeneo Enterprises, an HR consultancy that helps business owners develop strong, engaged teams. Vicky shares strategies for attracting, developing, and retaining top talent, along with insights from her entrepreneurial journey. Vicky Brown is a business leader, HR consultant, and author with decades of experience in corporate and entrepreneurial HR management. She is the founder of Idomeneo Enterprises, which provides HR support and leadership development for small businesses. She also hosts the podcast More Human, More Resources and is the author of Sing with Your Opera Voice: My Journey from Solopreneur to Entrepreneur. High-Performance Teams: Vicky’s journey from corporate HR to entrepreneurship Defining a high-performance team and why they matter How to attract and retain top talent in small businesses The role of workplace culture in building a great team Common HR mistakes that small business owners make Why delegation and leadership development are crucial The impact of micromanagement on employee performance How to create an effective hiring process that attracts high performers Top 3 Takeaways: Hiring is a marketing exercise—business owners must position their company as an attractive place to work. Leaders must delegate and avoid micromanagement to empower high-performing teams. A thriving company culture attracts and retains top talent, making HR strategy essential for growth. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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556: Buy the Right Business with David Barnett
02/17/2025
556: Buy the Right Business with David Barnett
David shares expert insights into buying and selling small businesses, highlighting why acquiring an existing business can be faster, easier, and less risky than starting from scratch. Show Notes Page: Thinking about buying a business but unsure where to start? In this episode, David Barnett, business consultant, author, and expert in small business acquisitions, joins Henry Lopez to share practical strategies for buying and selling businesses successfully. David explains why acquiring an existing business is often faster, easier, and less risky than starting from scratch, how to find the right business to buy, and common mistakes to avoid when structuring a deal. David also breaks down key financial considerations, including seller financing, avoiding excessive debt, and ensuring cash flow sustainability. Plus, he shares insight into how to identify a motivated seller and why the so-called "silver tsunami" of baby boomer business sales may not be what many expect. "It's not about just getting the deal done - it’s about ensuring you don’t overpay and that the business will actually work for you after the purchase." – David Barnett Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make smarter business decisions and avoid costly mistakes. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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555: From Kitchen to Shelf with LLance Kezner
02/17/2025
555: From Kitchen to Shelf with LLance Kezner
Former tech executive LLance Kezner shares how he turned his passion for home cooking into Millie’s Sipping Broth, a specialty food brand offering savory, health-conscious beverages in tea bag form. LLance discusses his journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, the challenges of scaling a food business, and the milestone of landing his award-winning product on Walmart shelves nationwide. Show Notes Page: In this episode, LLance Kesner, a former tech executive turned food entrepreneur, shares his journey from the corporate world to launching Millie’s Sipping Broth, a specialty food brand that is now available in Walmart stores nationwide. LLance discusses how he and his wife, Lori, took a simple idea—creating a healthier, more convenient alternative to bouillon cubes—and turned it into an innovative product that combines the comfort of broth with the convenience of tea bags. LLance walks us through the early days of developing the product in their kitchen, validating demand at Seattle’s Pike Place Market, and navigating the complex world of food manufacturing and retail. He also shares the challenges of scaling, including finding the right co-packer, securing funding, and ultimately winning Walmart’s highly competitive “Golden Ticket” opportunity. Key Takeaways: Start fast, learn fast: LLance emphasizes the importance of getting a product to market quickly and refining based on real customer feedback. “Don't waste any time, don’t overthink it. Really focus on the simplest application of your product and get it in front of people who might buy it.” Solve a real problem: Millie’s Sipping Broth fills a gap in the beverage market—offering a savory, low-calorie alternative to coffee, tea, and hot cocoa. “We were selling broth in the middle of summer, in 100-degree heat, and people were buying it. That’s when we knew we had something special.” Scaling smartly: LLance explains why finding the right retail partners at the right time is crucial and how their online success, including being featured by Weight Watchers International, helped prepare them for mass distribution. Now available in over 2,500 Walmart locations, Millie’s Sipping Broth is a testament to the power of persistence, product-market fit, and strategic partnerships. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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554: When to Quit
02/10/2025
554: When to Quit
When to quit - How to Know When to Pivot or Persevere. When to quit a project, a marketing campaign, a product line, a business model or perhaps an entire small business. Show Notes Page: When should you quit versus push through? In this episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez explores the challenging decision of whether to persevere through difficulties or strategically quit and pivot to something better. Inspired by The Dip by Seth Godin, Henry breaks down the difference between temporary struggles (the dip) and dead-end situations (cul-de-sacs), helping you make smarter decisions in your business. “Extraordinary benefit accrues to the tiny minority of people who are able to push just a tiny bit longer than most.” – Seth Godin, The Dip This episode for small business owners addresses: How to recognize if you’re in a dip or a dead end. The dangers of sunk-cost thinking and why quitting isn’t failure. Why persistence leads to success—but only when applied in the right places. How quitting can free up resources for more promising opportunities. “Quit the wrong stuff, stick with the right stuff, have the guts to do one or the other.” – Seth Godin, The Dip If you’re struggling with whether to keep going or pivot, this episode will give you the clarity you need. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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553: Scaling Your Business with Randy Shaw
02/03/2025
553: Scaling Your Business with Randy Shaw
Randy’s entrepreneurial journey, insights on scaling a small business, and the importance of making customers the hero by addressing their deeper needs and solving bottlenecks to achieve lasting success. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business podcast, Henry Lopez interviews Randy Shaw, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of BRYTESIGHT, a leading technology design consulting firm. Randy shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from his psychology and pre-med studies at Yale to professional soccer and eventually becoming a business owner. He offers valuable insights into scaling a business, building a strong team, and the importance of focusing on customer success. Key topics include: Randy’s transition from corporate roles to launching BRYTESIGHT and scaling it to multiple U.S. locations and Europe. The importance of making your customer the hero of the story, inspired by Donald Miller's Building a StoryBrand. Randy advises, “Always make your customer the hero of the story. You're Yoda, guiding Luke Skywalker to become a Jedi and win the day.” Strategies for entering new markets and creating strong B2B relationships with architects, project managers, and contractors. Lessons on identifying bottlenecks and using them to drive operational improvements, influenced by The Goal and Critical Chain by Eliyahu Goldratt. Randy emphasizes, “There will always be a bottleneck. It's like the horizon—you never reach it. Instead, focus on moving it and optimizing as you go.” Advice for entrepreneurs: follow your passion, embrace the process, and balance detailed planning with action. Randy encourages entrepreneurs to focus on the internal drivers of their customers, not just external factors like cost. He explains, “Customers buy for internal reasons like risk, achievement, or making their lives easier. If you focus on solving those deeper needs, you’ll win their trust and loyalty.” This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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552: Veteran-Owned Wagyu Beef Business
01/27/2025
552: Veteran-Owned Wagyu Beef Business
Growing a Veteran-owned Wagyu Beef Business, KC Cattle Company, with founder Patrick Montgomery. Patrick highlights his journey from military service to entrepreneurship and how he leveraged public relations with Megan Bennett to grow his premium brand while overcoming challenges and embracing adaptability. Show Notes Page: From Army Ranger to Wagyu Entrepreneur: Patrick Montgomery’s Journey Join host Henry Lopez as he welcomes Megan Bennett, a public relations expert from Light Years Ahead, and Patrick Montgomery, the founder and CEO of KC Cattle Company, to The How of Business podcast. In this episode, Patrick shares his remarkable story of transitioning from his military career as an Army Ranger to launching a successful premium Wagyu beef business. Patrick dives into the challenges he faced in starting and growing KC Cattle Company, the lessons he learned as an entrepreneur, and the skills he carried over from his military service to his business journey. He also discusses the importance of building a transparent, veteran-focused brand and how adaptability has been key to overcoming industry challenges. Megan Bennett provides insights into how public relations helped shape KC Cattle Company’s brand story and elevate its visibility. She explains why PR is a powerful tool for small business owners and how consistent PR efforts have helped Patrick gain meaningful media exposure, stand out in a competitive market, and grow his customer base. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice for small business owners. Hear Patrick’s tips for veterans exploring entrepreneurship and Megan’s recommendations on investing in PR to build brand awareness and trust. Don’t miss this insightful discussion about building a business with purpose, resilience, and a commitment to quality. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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551: The 5 Stages of Entrepreneurship
01/20/2025
551: The 5 Stages of Entrepreneurship
From Self-Employed or Solopreneur through Serial Entrepreneur—what does it look like and what does it take, to go from running a one-person operation to managing a portfolio of successful businesses and creating a lasting legacy. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business, Henry Lopez guides you through the 5 Stages of Entrepreneurship, providing a high-level roadmap to help you identify where you are on your entrepreneurial journey and how to move forward. The stages include: Self-Employed or Solopreneur: Running a business independently, relying on personal effort and expertise. Business Owner: Transitioning from solo work to managing a small team and creating sustainable systems. Entrepreneurial Stage: Scaling beyond a single business or location by leveraging market opportunities and innovation. Serial Entrepreneur: Building a diversified portfolio of businesses, with multiple income streams and a focus on leadership. Legacy Builder: Creating lasting impact through mentorship, investments, thought leadership, and philanthropy. Each stage is explored with key traits, advantages, challenges, and actionable steps to help you grow and succeed. Whether you're just starting out or looking to create a lasting legacy, this episode is packed with practical advice, real-life examples, and inspiration to help you progress. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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550: Super Communicators with Charles Duhigg
01/13/2025
550: Super Communicators with Charles Duhigg
Super Communicators - how to unlock the secret language of connection with journalist and the author Charles Duhigg. Show Notes Page: In this episode, Henry Lopez interviews Charles Duhigg, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and bestselling author of The Power of Habit and Super Communicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Their conversation explores the science of communication and its transformative impact on relationships and leadership. The Three Types of Conversations Duhigg introduces the three core types of conversations: practical (focused on problem-solving) emotional (centered on empathy social (addressing identity and relationships). He emphasizes the importance of aligning conversational styles to foster meaningful connections, avoid miscommunication, and build trust. These strategies are particularly valuable for leaders and business owners aiming to improve team dynamics and strengthen workplace culture. Actionable Techniques for Better Communication Several actionable techniques are shared, including asking deep, meaningful questions to uncover values and emotions, matching conversational styles for better connection, and using “looping for understanding” to ensure clarity and alignment. Duhigg also discusses how to adapt communication for remote and digital interactions, offering tips to maintain strong connections in these contexts. The Key to Leadership Success A key takeaway from the episode is that effective communication is a skill that can be developed through intentional practice. Duhigg encourages leaders to prioritize listening, empathy, and clarity in conversations, especially when managing difficult situations or delivering constructive feedback. By doing so, they can foster trust, resolve conflicts, and inspire their teams. The Broader Impact of Meaningful Communication The discussion also highlights the broader benefits of communication, including its role in personal happiness and fulfillment. Drawing on insights from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, Duhigg explains that building meaningful relationships through regular, intentional conversations significantly contributes to long-term well-being and success. This episode of The How of Business, the top-rated podcast show for small business owners, provides invaluable insights and practical advice for anyone seeking to enhance their communication skills, build stronger relationships, and lead more effectively. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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549: Human Resources with Claudia St. John
01/06/2025
549: Human Resources with Claudia St. John
Small Business Human Resources management with Claudia St. John. Show Notes Page: Are you struggling with hiring, retaining top talent, or building a positive workplace culture? On this episode Henry Lopez is joined by HR expert Claudia St. John, founder and CEO of The Workplace Advisors. Claudia shares insights and tips on Small Business Human Resource management, including: The secrets to attracting and retaining the right employees in a tight labor market. How flexibility and growth opportunities are reshaping employee expectations. The critical role of training managers in essential leadership skills like empathy, feedback, and conflict resolution. She also offers practical advice for small business owners on HR compliance, recruiting, and creating a thriving workplace culture. Whether you're managing a team or preparing to scale your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights! This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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548: 2024 Top 5 Episodes
12/30/2024
548: 2024 Top 5 Episodes
Highlights from 2024 Top 5 Episodes, based on unique listener downloads. Show Notes Page: Discover the most popular episodes of 2024, based on listener downloads, to help you start, run, and grow your small business. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned small business owner, these episodes are packed with actionable advice and insights to drive your success. Top 5 Episodes: Episode 510 – 7 Start-Up Mistakes Avoid common pitfalls that hinder small business success, from poor planning and hiring mistakes to ineffective marketing strategies. Learn practical tips to overcome these obstacles and set your business up for long-term success. Episode 506 – Budgeting Fundamentals Master the art of budgeting with insights into financial control, planning, and performance measurement. This episode provides a step-by-step guide to managing expenses and achieving your financial goals. Episode R504 – Annual Strategic Planning Explore the 10 steps to crafting a powerful strategic plan to guide your business toward sustainable growth. Gain best practices for aligning your goals, measuring success, and preparing for market changes. Episode R1 – Ready to Be Your Own Boss? Assess whether you’re ready, willing, and able to start your entrepreneurial journey. This episode delves into the mindset, effort, and resources needed to take the leap into business ownership. Episode 509 – Finding Your Identity Learn how to cultivate a balanced identity beyond your role as a business owner. Gain insights into delegating tasks, setting boundaries, and pursuing personal growth to achieve resilience and scalability. Free Tools & Resources: Business Expense Budget Tool: Monitor your annual operating budget with ease. Marketing Budget Tool: Plan your advertising and marketing spend effectively. Cash Flow Worksheet: Stay on top of your business’s working capital. Annual Strategic Plan Outline: Build a robust strategic plan for growth. Starting Your Business Guide: Assess your readiness to become your own boss. Workshops & Courses: Annual Strategic Planning Workshop Join Henry Lopez in this live online workshop to develop a roadmap for achieving your business goals. Starting Your Business Course Learn what it takes to launch your small business. Unlock the insights and tools that made 2024’s top episodes a hit with small business owners and entrepreneurs worldwide. Listen now and elevate your small business journey! This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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547: Lessons from The Art of Shaving with Eric Malka
12/16/2024
547: Lessons from The Art of Shaving with Eric Malka
Lessons from The Art of Shaving: starting, growing, and selling The Art of Shaving company. Show Notes Page: On this episode, Henry Lopez is joined by Eric Malka, co-founder of the luxury men’s grooming brand The Art of Shaving and author of On the Razor’s Edge. Eric shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey, from starting with just $15,000 to building a globally recognized brand that was ultimately acquired by Procter & Gamble. Eric dives into: The importance of starting small and thinking big. How constraints can spark innovation and lead to success. The critical role of branding and intellectual property in building value. Why prudence, patience, and timing are essential for sustainable growth. The role of luck and how to position yourself to seize opportunities. He also reflects on key lessons learned from both successes and failures, offering actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. "Brands are more valuable than companies, and IP is the most valuable aspect of your brand." – Eric Malka Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or looking to scale your small business, this episode is packed with insights to inspire and guide you. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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R504: Strategic Planning for Small Business
12/11/2024
R504: Strategic Planning for Small Business
How to create a Strategic Plan for your small business. Use a Strategic Plan to set your goals, objectives and initiatives for your small business. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business, host Henry Lopez dives into annual strategic planning - a critical tool for small business owners to achieve growth and long-term success. Strategic planning helps you align your goals, allocate resources efficiently, and create a clear action plan for the year ahead. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: Why Strategic Planning Matters: Understand the benefits of having a focused and adaptable strategy for your business. The Key Difference Between Strategy & Planning: Learn how a clear strategy drives your planning process and positions your business to win in the market. 10 Steps to Build an Effective Strategic Plan: A comprehensive framework covering everything from reviewing the past year to setting goals, defining KPIs, budgeting, and adapting quarterly. Actionable Insights & Examples: Get practical tips to simplify your planning process, even if this is your first attempt at creating a strategic plan. Free Resource: Download the Annual Strategic Plan Outline to guide you through the process from the Show Notes page for this episode. Whether you’re an experienced business owner or just starting, this episode will help you focus on what matters most, measure your progress, and achieve success in 2025. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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546: Power Washing Franchise with Aaron Harper
12/02/2024
546: Power Washing Franchise with Aaron Harper
How to own a successful Power Washing franchise small business with Aaron Harper. Show Notes Page: On this episode we dive into the world of franchising and small business success with Aaron Harper, CEO of Rolling Suds, the leading power washing business franchise. Aaron shares his inspiring journey from Hollywood executive to franchise business leader, offering insights into how franchising can empower entrepreneurs to build thriving businesses. Discover how Rolling Suds is transforming the power washing industry with its proprietary equipment, streamlined processes, and focus on professionalization. Learn why franchising is the perfect model for aspiring small business owners looking for a proven system and strong support. Whether you’re interested in starting your own power washing business, exploring the franchise business model, or simply gaining inspiration from a compelling entrepreneurial story, this episode has something for everyone. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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R255: Overcoming Fear with Ruth Soukup
11/18/2024
R255: Overcoming Fear with Ruth Soukup
Overcoming Fear to start and grow your small business, with Ruth Soukup - author of “Do It Scared: Finding the Courage to Face Your Fears, Overcome Obstacles, and Create a Life You Love”. Show Notes Page: "The whole idea behind ‘do it scared’ is not that you don’t ever feel afraid because we all feel afraid. It’s that you take action even in the face of fear and you continually take action because ultimately action is the antidote to fear." Ruth introduces the concept of the Seven Fear Archetypes, which she developed through research involving over 4,000 participants. These archetypes include the Procrastinator, Rule Follower, People Pleaser, Outcast, Self-Doubter, Excuse Maker, and Pessimist. Each archetype reflects distinct ways fear manifests, such as procrastination driven by perfectionism or self-doubt stemming from insecurities. Understanding these archetypes allows individuals to identify their unique fears and develop targeted strategies to overcome them. Our discussion also focuses on principles of courage, including “owning your choices” and “recognizing that balance is overrated.” Ruth argues that taking responsibility for one’s life, while letting go of the myth of perfection and balance, empowers individuals to prioritize purpose over superficial ideals. She highlights the importance of rejecting excuses, embracing imperfections, and persistently moving forward, even when success feels uncertain. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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545: Take Control of Your Time with Andrew Hartman
11/11/2024
545: Take Control of Your Time with Andrew Hartman
How to take control of your time, and trade stress, overwhelm and anxiety for peace, freedom and clarity, with Andrew Hartman. Show Notes Page: Andrew Hartman introduces the "Time Boss" framework to help small business owners regain control over their time by setting boundaries, prioritizing tasks, and incorporating "whirlwind time" to manage daily interruptions. Andrew shares time management and productivity improvement tips and techniques for small business owners. He also introduces his time operating system designed to multiply your time. By adopting weekly planning and reflection habits, entrepreneurs can reduce stress and sustainably increase productivity without overworking. Andrew Hartman is the Founder of Time Boss, a training organization helping leaders and their teams take control of their time to get more done with less stress and anxiety. He founded Time Boss after burning out several times over, even losing his sense of smell for a season. He has taken all he has learned over the years to build a system to help business leaders avoid the same mistakes and chaos. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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544: Top 10 Productivity Tools
11/04/2024
544: Top 10 Productivity Tools
Henry’s Top 10 Personal & Business Productivity Tools. Show Notes Page: In this episode of The How of Business, host Henry Lopez shares his current top 10 productivity tools that help him stay organized and efficient as a small business owner and business coach. These essential tools form the foundation of his daily operations, from using Outlook to manage all scheduling, to creating visuals with Canva, and simplifying client bookings with Calendly. Henry explains why he relies on ChatGPT for content creation, how Zapier automates repetitive tasks, and how Mailchimp and HubSpot enhance his client communication and relationship management. Listen to this episode to hear Henry's tips for choosing affordable, easy-to-use technology that can transform productivity and streamline operations for small business owners at any stage. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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543: The 1-3-1 Problem Solving Method
10/28/2024
543: The 1-3-1 Problem Solving Method
1-3-1 Problem Solving Method, a simple yet effective approach to empower your team to independently tackle and solve problems in your small business. Show Notes Page: **Episode Summary: The 1-3-1 Problem Solving Method for Small Business Owners** Co-hosts Henry Lopez and David Begin introduce the 1-3-1 Problem Solving Method, a simple yet effective approach to empower your team to independently tackle challenges. This method encourages critical thinking, autonomy, and proactive problem-solving by guiding team members to define a problem, brainstorm three possible solutions, and then recommend one solution to implement. As a small business owner, you don’t have to be the Chief Problem Solver. By teaching your team to use the 1-3-1 method, you can delegate decision-making, develop your team’s leadership skills, and free yourself to focus on strategic activities. We’ll walk through how to introduce this method to your team, using real-world examples, and share tips on how to foster a culture of independent problem-solving. Key benefits of the 1-3-1 Method include: - Empowering teams to solve problems on their own. - Reducing dependency on management for day-to-day issues. - Accelerating decision-making. - Encouraging proactive, strategic thinking and boosting accountability. Listen to this podcast episode to learn how to implement this method and develop a more self-sufficient, confident, and capable team. This episode is hosted by Henry Lopez. The How of Business podcast focuses on helping you start, run and grow your small business. The How of Business is a top-rated podcast for small business and entrepreneurs. Find the best podcast, small business coaching, resources and trusted service partners for small business owners and entrepreneurs at our website
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