The Good Life Small Business Podcast
The Good Life Small Business Podcast highlights small business owners in the great state of Nebraska. We talk to small business owners for all industries who want to share their story and encourage others.
info_outline
Sarah Spitsen - Nebraska Wesleyan University
09/06/2024
Sarah Spitsen - Nebraska Wesleyan University
In this episode, I sat down with Sarah Spitsen, Director of the newly formed Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program at Nebraska Wesleyan University. Sarah shares insights into how the program prepares students for the ever-changing demands of the business world. She discusses the unique opportunities available to students and sheds light on the innovative approach the university is taking to foster entrepreneurial thinking. We also talked about Sarah's journey as a small business owner and learned how, at one point, she literally made her business the focus of her life—even living out of her car to make her dream a reality! To learn more about the Innovation and Entrepreneurship program at NWU, check out their website ! If you would like to learn how you can help the program, email Sarah at [email protected].
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/32943922
info_outline
Cory Morris - Gary Michaels Clothiers
07/12/2024
Cory Morris - Gary Michaels Clothiers
Join me as I sit down to talk with Cory Morris, the new owner of Gary Michael's Clothiers in Kearney. In this episode, we'll dive into Cory's shift from running a bookkeeping business to taking over a popular clothing store, the ups and downs of running a retail business, how he gets his family in on the action, and more! Cory also gives great insight into some of the things that he has taken from his bookkeeping business and used immediately at Gary Michael's store to help with efficiency and automation. Links to those can be found in the show notes below. You can learn more about Gary Michaels by visiting their website . You can also email Cory with comments or suggestions at Keep an eye out for their Facebook and Instagram pages, which will be up soon, showcasing the variety options they will have in the store. Don't forget to mention GOOD LIFE when you stop by for 10% off your purchase! (some exclusions may apply) Show Notes: - by Michael Michalowicz - Hobby Lobby book by David Green (payroll and time tracking) (Document management) (Bank) - My favorite podcast
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/32071617
info_outline
Special Collab Podcast with Sheila Jenkinson of the Growing Small Town Nebraska Podcast
06/25/2024
Special Collab Podcast with Sheila Jenkinson of the Growing Small Town Nebraska Podcast
In this special collaboration episode, join me as I sit down with Sheila Jenkinson, the host of the Growing Small Town Nebraska Podcast. Sheila and I talk about our experiences in supporting and promoting small businesses in rural Nebraska. We discuss the unique challenges and opportunities facing small towns, as well as the inspiring stories of local entrepreneurs. Whether you're a small business owner, an advocate for rural communities, or simply interested in the dynamics of small town living, this episode offers valuable perspectives and meaningful conversations. If you want to find out more about Sheila and The Grow Small Town Nebraska Podcast, check out the website , or follow her on for tons of great content and she highlights businesses across the state.
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/31888367
info_outline
Paul Oettinger - Pals Brewing Company
04/19/2024
Paul Oettinger - Pals Brewing Company
In this episode of the podcast, I sat down with Paul Oettinger, co-owner of Pals Brewing Company located in North Platte. Paul's passion for brewing and dedication to his business is inspiring, and this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the brewery business or entrepreneurship in general. He takes us on a journey of how he got into the brewery business and the challenges he faced along the way. He shares some of the business lessons he learned the hard way, including how to read a Profit and Loss statement. We discuss the exciting things that Pals Brewing Company has on the horizon, including upcoming events and recent beer releases. You can find out more about Paul and Pals Brewing Company by visiting their website, following them on Instagram, or subscribing to their YouTube channel. And don't forget to check videos of each interview on the GLSB !
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/30901278
info_outline
T&T Mobile Washing - The Follow Up Episode
03/08/2024
T&T Mobile Washing - The Follow Up Episode
In this episode, we catch up with Tyler Schake, owner of T&T Mobile Washing. Tyler was one of our early guests, and we're excited to hear about how his business has grown and changed since we last spoke. Tyler shares with us some of the challenges that come with running a growing business, including managing employees, updating systems, and embracing how his role has changed. Tyler also provides insights into how he stays motivated and focused as a business owner and shares some of the lessons he's learned along the way. Whether you're a business owner or just interested in learning more about entrepreneurship, this episode is sure to provide valuable insights and inspiration. If you want to find out more about Tyler and T&T Mobile Washing. check out their website , or find them on and to see some of their amazing work! And don't forget to check out the for full video interviews and clips from each episode.
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/30290123
info_outline
Select Sail & Sports - Brady Storrs
01/05/2024
Select Sail & Sports - Brady Storrs
I had the opportunity to sit down with Brady Storrs, owner of Select Sail & Sports, one of the newest small businesses in Kearney. In this episode of the podcast, we dive into the excitement of getting a business up and running, the challenges Brady faced when buying the business and moving it from Omaha to Kearney, and more! If you want to find out more about Brady and Select Sail & Sports, check out their website, or follow them on , , and ! And don't forget to check out the where you can watch full length episodes of our interviews!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/29355198
info_outline
Dereck Djernes - Axe Holes
12/09/2023
Dereck Djernes - Axe Holes
In this episode of the Good Life Small Business Podcast, we're talking to Derek Djernes, owner of Axe Holes in Kearney, a local business that's been killing it lately. We'll be getting into some real talk about the focus it takes to run a business while still working a day job, the unique challenges of having a business in another town, and we'll also touch on the mental and emotional toll that running a business can take. We'll get into why small business owners can be too hard on themselves and how to be more forgiving. If you're a small business owner, or thinking about starting your own business, you won't want to miss this episode. Derek has some seriously valuable insights to share, so tune in and get ready to live the good life as a small business owner. If you want to know more about the Kearney Axe Holes location, check them out of , , or visit their !
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/29001148
info_outline
Ryan Clark - Eustis Body Shop
11/17/2023
Ryan Clark - Eustis Body Shop
In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with Ryan Clark, Vice President of Eustis Body Shop. Ryan is currently working in this long going family-owned business and has been instrumental in growing their location in Lincoln, NE. We'll discuss the challenges of opening a new location, the benefits and drawbacks of being part of a family business, and the strategies they've used to successfully expand into new markets. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, family dynamics, or simply want to learn more about how to navigate the unique challenges of working in a family-owned business, this episode is for you. If you want to learn more about Eustis Body Shop, you can check out their , or follow them on and !
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/28689418
info_outline
Kearney Combat Sports - Round 2!
09/15/2023
Kearney Combat Sports - Round 2!
As a small business owner, change is the only thing that remains the same. No matter what stage of business, there are challenges and opportunities for growth. That's why I was excited to check in with a previous guest to see how things have changed with his business. I first sat down for an interview with Richard Barajas, owner of Kearney Combat Sports, in January of 2022. Since then, I have gotten to know him more and have been paying attention to his business. I've seen how he has used social media to get the word out about his business and the different channels he is using to grow the KCS brand. We had a great conversation about the challenges of managing a growing business, what he is trying to get better at when it comes to being a leader, and what he still needs to work on as he works towards his ultimate vision for himself and Kearney Combat Sports. To find out more about Richard and Kearney Combat Sports, check them out on , , , and the . Don't forget to check out the page to watch previous interviews as well!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/28041105
info_outline
Kylee Hall - Halls Electric & Services
09/08/2023
Kylee Hall - Halls Electric & Services
This episode was a lot of fun for me. It's not everyday that I get to sit down with a guy that I went to high school with and talk about their growing business! Kylee Hall of Halls Electric & Services in North Platte has taken his business from a one man operation doing electrical work, to hiring his first employee a little over a year later, to today, where he has over 40 employees! We had a great conversation about what it was like for him getting started, the challenges he faces as a "hands on worker" that now has to run a larger scale business, what he would do differently if he could go back. You can find out more about Halls Electric & Services by checking out their or looking up their . And don't forget to check out the full length video interviews of the podcast by checking out the
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/27977883
info_outline
Normal Roasting Company and Coffee Lab
05/26/2023
Normal Roasting Company and Coffee Lab
Tucked away in the town square of Burwell, NE is a gem of a coffee house by the name of Normal Roasting Company and Coffee Lab. And while this was my first time visiting this cool little spot, I know it won't be my last. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Josh Holmquist, to learn more about how he and his wife Sara started on this journey. We talked about a lot of things, including the challenges of growing a business in small town Nebraska, the ways they used the pandemic to grow their business, and the importance they put on growing a positive culture. You can find out more about Normal Roasting Company by visiting their , or checking them out on and . Don't forget to check out full length episodes of each interview on our !
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/26956263
info_outline
Ryan Rahmann - The Royal Haul
05/19/2023
Ryan Rahmann - The Royal Haul
I've know Ryan Rahmann for quite awhile. I also got to be a part of some early conversations with him about the business he would be starting up, so it was great to finall catch up with him to see how things are going. In this episode, Ryan and I talk about how a side gig turned into a full blown business, the challenges he faces to keep his vehicles on the road, and some stories about his favorite hauls from all over the country. If you want to find out more, check out The Royal Haul on and . Also, be sure to check out the page to watch each interview!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/26889963
info_outline
Cory Morris - Morris Better Bookkeeping
04/14/2023
Cory Morris - Morris Better Bookkeeping
I've asked guests in the past "What do you wish you were better at?" One of the responses that comes up again and again is "The books." Keeping and eye on the financials isn't something that every business owner gets excited about. That's why it is important to find someone who gets REALLY excited about it, and can work as an ally for your business. Cory Morris, owner of Morris Better Bookkeeping, is one of those people. I've known Cory for a few years now, and I am excited to get him on the podcast as a guest. We hit on a lot of topics that small business owners can use, no matter what stage of their business they are in. We talked about the importance of budgeting, different tools that can be used to help along the way, and more! If you want to find out more about Cory, check out his website ! You can also find out more about (You Need A Budget) and .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/26543961
info_outline
Carole Sprunk - Clout Coffee, Edge Magazine, and Dine Magazine
03/24/2023
Carole Sprunk - Clout Coffee, Edge Magazine, and Dine Magazine
I had a great time sitting down with Carole Sprunk, owner of Edge Magazine, Dine Magazine, and most recently, Clout Coffee. We sat down to talk about the challenges of getting retail space in stores, the importance of building relationships with both major retail chains and local businesses, the one thing she wishes she was better at when it comes to running her business, and more! You can find out more about Carole by checking out her website If you want to know more about Clout Coffee, check out their , or give them a follow on and . And don't forget to give the GLSB Podcast a follow on and ! You can also subscribe to our page to watch each interview with our amazing guests!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/26327106
info_outline
Nebraska Enterprise Fund
03/17/2023
Nebraska Enterprise Fund
One on the things being the host of GLSB podcast has taught me is the various types resources that are available to help small business owners. The Nebraska Enterprise Fund is another one of those amazing resources! I had the opportunity to sit down with Jim Reiff, Executive Director, and Jamel Hamilton, Deputy Director of Lending, to learn more about the Nebraska Enterprise Fund and who they support. Take a listen to hear specifically who can benefit from the Nebraska Enterprise Fund, the different types or programs that are available, and more! You can also check out the Nebraska Enterprise Fund website for more information about the funding process, upcoming workshops, and ways to support them. Also, make sure to check out the podcast on social media, including , , and watch the full interviews on our page!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/26260179
info_outline
Bianchi Candle Company
03/10/2023
Bianchi Candle Company
Nic Bianchi literally grew up as an entrepreneuer. When he was 12 years old, he got a candle making kit as a birthday present, and the rest is history. We talked about what it was like for him to be a business owner while he was growing up, the challenges of evolving as his business as it grew, and how his role in the business has changed in the last year. If you want to know more about Bianchi Candle Co., check out their , or on and . And don't forget to follow The Good Life Small Business Podcast as well! You can find full interviews on our page, or check us out on and .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/26180433
info_outline
Scratchtown Brewery
01/13/2023
Scratchtown Brewery
Caleb Pollard and Mike Klimek, part owners of Scratchtown Brewery in Ord, are passionate dudes. They are passionate about their business, their community, and their vision. I had a great discussion with these two, and we covered a lot of ground. We talked about how Scratchtown came to be, the challenges they faced during the pandemic, and how they have worked through it all to make a difference in their community. As a small town Nebraska kid myself, I admire the passion they have to make their town better, even when opportunities have come along to lure them away. Make sure to check out Scratchtown Brewery on , , or by taking a look at their . And if you ever get the chance, take a road trip to Ord, NE, sit down for a beer, and embrace all that small town Nebraska has to offer.
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/25594986
info_outline
Pax Lighting
11/18/2022
Pax Lighting
I had the pleasure to sit down with Jeff and Teegan Nordhues, owners of Pax Lighting, a high-end lighting company with customers all over the country, but based right here in Kearney. Jeff and Teegan were high school sweethearts, and after their careers had taken them all over the world, they decided they wanted to settle down back home. We had a great conversation about how they operate their business with clients that are all over the US, the value of communication, how the pandemic affected their business, and more. Make sure to check them out on their , , and . Also, don't forget to check out the to get to see each interview in a whole new way!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/25058250
info_outline
NETForce Eship Best Practices Summit Podcast Panel
11/13/2022
NETForce Eship Best Practices Summit Podcast Panel
Earlier this year, I was invited by Lisa Tschauner, one of the members of the Nebraska Entrepreneurship Task Force (NETForce) to join their conference here in Kearney. The best part was, they wanted me to moderate a panel of former podcast guests to talk about their businesses, they challenges they face, and much more. I want to thank Brian & Jes Baer of , RaChell Merklin of , Richard Barajas of , Brett Mayo of ., and Michael Frietag of for taking time out of their day to be part of the event. I also want to give a huge thanks to Martin at for helping out with the video of the panel, which you can check out on the . Finally, thank you to the entire team. This is a great organization that wants the best for small business owners, and is working to help people all across the state to collaborate and be better together.
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/24993567
info_outline
Tim Mittan - Small Business Administration of Nebraska
10/21/2022
Tim Mittan - Small Business Administration of Nebraska
I remember when I started my business, there were a lot of things that I just figured own my own to the best of my ability. Which bank could I go to for a loan? What information would the bank want to see so I could get approved? What should my business plan look like? And while I eventually figured these things out, it took a ton of time and energy. I wish I would have known back then about the Small Business Administration. In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Tim Mittan, the District Director for SBA of Nebraska. We talked about a variety of topics, including funding for businesses, how the SBA can help with business expansion, the advantages of government contracts, and so much more. This episode is packed with useful information for those that are in the beginning stages of starting a business, but also for the business owner that is looking to grow and expand. After you listen to the podcast, take some time to visit the You can also find out more about the local resources and contact info be visiting the page. Don't forget to support the podcast by subscribing to the page, or follow us on and .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/24758238
info_outline
Chad Sutton - Sandhills Sutton Speed & Supply
09/16/2022
Chad Sutton - Sandhills Sutton Speed & Supply
The Sandhills of Nebraska will always be home for me. I grew up in Dunning, NE, only ten short miles down the road on Highway 2 from Halsey. Most people know Halsey because of the Nebraska National Forest just outside of town. That's how Chad Sutton learned about it as well. But after one trip, and a chance grocery run, an idea came to mind that would later lead him and his family from Omaha to Halsey. It was great to sit down with Chad to hear about his story, talk about how his business has evolved, and more. If you want to find out more about Sandhills Sutton S&S, check them out on and . Also, if you haven't had a chance, check out the , , and pages for the GLSB podcast. If you are a fan of the page, please like and subscribe to our social media.
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/24401589
info_outline
Martin Hobelman - Maverick Marketing
08/26/2022
Martin Hobelman - Maverick Marketing
I had a great time sitting down with Martin Hobelman, owner of Maverick Marketing here in Kearney. We had a chance to sit down and talk about his unusual journey to becoming an entrepreneur, the importance of doing work for free when you are getting your foot in the door, and some great advice for anyone thinking about starting their own business. If you want to know more about Martin and Maverick Marketing, check out their , on , or on . And for those who may not know, we have added new landing spots for the podast!! Check out our fresh pages on , , and !
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/24168882
info_outline
Scott Asmus - SourceLink Nebraska
05/27/2022
Scott Asmus - SourceLink Nebraska
For some small business owners, there is a feeling that they are on an island with no support get off the ground. In Nebraska, that really couldn't be farther from the truth. I was excited to connect with Scott Asmus with SourceLink Nebraska to learn more about what they do, and the various ways they help small business owners across the state. If you would like to learn more about SourceLink Nebraska and the services they offer, please check out their website , or find them on , , , and more!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/23241863
info_outline
Katlynn Pyatt - Start Marketing Podcast
04/08/2022
Katlynn Pyatt - Start Marketing Podcast
Personally, I really enjoy the challenge of marketing my own small business. It is one of the aspects of my business that is always changing and keeps me guessing. This made my conversation with Katlynn Pyatt, host of the Start Marketing Podcast, an eye opening experience. Katlynn is a self described "marketing nerd" who loves learning about the art of marketing small businesses. It was interesting to hear her perspective on marketing with social media, how she has grown and adapted her business, and the benefit of using a podcast to help grow your business. If you are a small business owner, or someone who is interested in marketing, I highly recommend you add her podcast, , to your rotation.
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/22733744
info_outline
Groom Services LLC
04/01/2022
Groom Services LLC
I had a really great conversation with the Daniel, Nelson, and Danielle, owners of Groom Services LLC in Omaha. This family operation got started in 2019, and opened officially to the public with their mobile shop in 2020. Two days later, COVID forced them to close. But they didn't use that as an excuse to give up on their dream. Today, Groom Services travels around Omaha and provides an amazing experience and a quality product. They have a physical location in the works which should be ready this summer, and have starting working with other barbers and beauticians in Omaha to give them an opportunity to hone their skills. To find out more about Groom, check out their website , or check them out on or .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/22636901
info_outline
Curt Smith - Dream Glove Company
02/11/2022
Curt Smith - Dream Glove Company
Curt Smith is a former professional baseball player and Lincoln Saltdog legend. With his career coming to a close, Curt had an idea for custom made baseball equipment that could be personalized for players across the country. We had a great conversation about how he came up with the name, his transititon from professional athlete to small business owner, and what he wants the future of Dream Glove to look like. If you want to find out more, check out Dream Glove on , , or visit there website .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/22102343
info_outline
Nicka Johnson - Budget To Success
02/04/2022
Nicka Johnson - Budget To Success
I had a great time sitting down with Nicka Johnson, owner of Budget to Success in Omaha. Nicka has an amazing story. She recognized at an early age what she didn't want to be, and took the steps in her life to set herself up for success. After she graduated college, she started working as a mortgage broker and climbed her way to the top of the company. Eventually though, she realized that the corporate life wasn't what she thought it would be. And in the middle of the pandemic, she fired her boss, and Budget to Success was born. If you want to know more, check out Budget To Success on , , or visit their to get started!
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/22029521
info_outline
Richard Barajas - Kearney Combat Sports
01/29/2022
Richard Barajas - Kearney Combat Sports
I had a great time sitting down with Richard Barajas, owner of Kearney Combat Sports. We had a great conversation about his business, what he struggles with, and what he sees for the future of Kearney Combat Sports. Make sure to check them out on and , or learn more on their .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/21945434
info_outline
Sweetwater Hemp Company
01/07/2022
Sweetwater Hemp Company
I had a great time meeting Brett Mayo, co-owner of Sweetwater Hemp Company in Pleasanton. After a tour of their facility, I had a chance to sit down with Brett and learn how their business came to be, the challenges they have had to overcome in their first year and beyond, and what they would do differently if they had the chance start again. If you would like to know more about Sweetwater Hemp Company, check out their website , or find them on , , or .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/21700310
info_outline
The Upper Room Brewery - (Almost) A Year Later
11/19/2021
The Upper Room Brewery - (Almost) A Year Later
Last December, I had the opportunity to sit down with Michael, Amy, Dustin, and Lindsey, owners of The Upper Room Brewery. At the time, they were hoping to be up and running after the first of the year. It turned out to be the end of January. There was a nervous anxiety that you could almost feel hanging in the air last year. The burden of what needed to be done, and the unknown of what was to come. Fast forward 11 months to this interview, and the nervous anxiety has been replaced with laughter, appreciation, and calm. It hasn't all been easy, as they will admit, but I think they would all say that it has been worth it. Take a listen to see what the first (almost) year looks like for these four small business owners. The challenges, the "high highs and low lows", the their vision for what the future holds. For more information, you can check them out on or , or stop in to their spot in Kearney, located at .
/episode/index/show/nesmallbusinesss/id/21200885