The Business Professor with Dr. Cindy Briggs

There are thousands of business podcasts out there- so why this one? My name is Dr. Cindy Briggs and I am a business professor, business coach, and entrepreneur. I bring extensive graduate degrees and over 30 years of experience to this show. I have guided nonprofit and for-profit leaders in effectively running their organization. I bring experience, education, and even fun to our discussions-- plus there are no exams!

Think Like a CEO: The Entrepreneurial Mindset Shift 07/03/2025

Think Like a CEO: The Entrepreneurial Mindset Shift In this episode, Dr. Cindy Briggs dives into what it truly means to think like a CEO. Whether you're launching your first business or scaling your fifth, mindset is the multiplier. You’ll learn how to make the shift from employee thinking to entrepreneurial ownership — and why that change can transform not just your business, but your confidence, clarity, and long-term success. 🧠 What You’ll Learn: The key mindset differences between employees and entrepreneurs What "ownership thinking" really means in everyday decision-making CEO-level habits and rituals that boost productivity and vision How to manage risk like a leader, not avoid it like a follower A 7-day mindset challenge to help you start thinking bigger today 🔑 Key Takeaway You can’t delegate vision. To grow your business, you must first grow your mindset. When you begin to operate like the CEO — in your thinking, habits, and choices — your business begins to follow suit. 📲 Let’s Connect Substack (for deeper content and downloads) Instagram & TikTok: Website: /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/37075780

Failing Forward in Business and Life 06/26/2025

Failing Forward in Business and Life In this powerful episode of The Business Professor, Dr. Cindy Briggs takes on one of the most important (and least discussed) parts of entrepreneurship: failure. From failed launches to funding flops, every entrepreneur faces setbacks. But what separates successful business leaders from the rest is how they fail forward. Tune in to learn how to reframe failure, build resilience, and turn hard lessons into business momentum. Cindy shares practical tools like the Reflect–Learn–Adapt framework, real-world examples of startups that bounced back, and encouragement to see failure not as defeat—but as education. 🔑 Key Takeaways Failure is Normal: Every entrepreneur experiences failure—what matters is how you respond. The Psychology of Resilience: Why mindset matters more than circumstances in recovery. Reflect, Learn, Adapt: A 3-step framework for turning failure into growth. Startup Comeback Stories: Real examples of entrepreneurs who overcame major setbacks. Build a Learning Culture: Foster curiosity, experimentation, and continuous improvement. Your Failure is Your MBA: Lessons from the real world are often more valuable than any degree. 💬 Quotable Moments “Entrepreneurs who succeed aren’t the ones who never fail—they’re the ones who refuse to quit.” “Failure isn’t a full stop. It’s a comma. Keep writing your story.” 📲 Connect With Dr. Cindy Briggs Instagram: TikTok: Website: Substack: 🛠️ Resources Mentioned Reflect–Learn–Adapt Framework : join me on substack to access these downloads /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/37060050

Coming Back: Refreshed and Reset 06/19/2025

Coming Back: Refreshed and Reset In this heartfelt return episode, Dr. Cindy Briggs opens up about stepping back from podcasting and the entrepreneurial world for a season of rest and reflection. She shares why it’s okay—and necessary—for entrepreneurs to pause, reset, and protect their well-being. Now recharged and refocused, Cindy outlines her renewed vision for the podcast and how she plans to use her social media platforms to provide value, inspiration, and practical tools for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and leaders. Whether you’ve been a longtime listener or you’re just tuning in, this episode is your inside look at what’s next for The Business Professor brand. 🔑 Key Takeaways Permission to Pause: It’s healthy—and often strategic—to take a break. Cindy shares her personal experience and lessons from stepping away. Reset with Purpose: How intentional rest can refuel your creativity and clarity. A New Chapter: Plans to amplify impact through Instagram, TikTok, Substack, and beyond. What to Expect Moving Forward: Continued focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and small business—plus new educational and inspirational content formats. 💬 Quotable Moments “Sometimes the most productive thing an entrepreneur can do is step back and breathe.” “My mission hasn’t changed—I just have a bigger vision now.” 📲 Connect With Cindy Instagram: indybriggsphd TikTok: Substack: Website: /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/37059985

Plan, Practice, Pray: A Conversation 06/08/2023

Plan, Practice, Pray: A Conversation In this season 3 finale, we will talk about planning, practice and praying within our business. I am going to share with you some personal thoughts as we have been encounting struggles within our own business. I am going to share how we have implemented more planning, more in the way of how we "practice" within our business, and finally.... where God falls into all of this. I refer to the book . If you click on the link it will take you to the book. Also, this is season 3 finale... we are taking a short break and we will be back soon with season 4. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/27073761

"Hit by a Bus" Planning 06/01/2023

"Hit by a Bus" Planning None of us what to think about it... who wants to be planning for the WORST case scenario? While we don't want to think of these situations, it is exactly what we need to do as entrepreneurs. We need to consider all of the things that COULD or MIGHT happen, and we need to be prepared. In this episode, I will be disussing my five key areas when thinking of this plan. We will talk about insurance, binders, and techolgy (and more). I will share with you what we have done on our entepreneurial journey. You can find out more about me and my services at and on /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/27001944

I Want to Quit! 05/25/2023

I Want to Quit! This episode isn't just for entrepreneurs--- it can be for anyonoe who finds themselves in place where they just want to quit something. I have been there many times.... should I quit the podcast, should I quit consulting, should I quit homeschooling (told you it could be anything). While there are times that quitting will absolutely make sense, sometimes we need to stop for a minute and ask ourselves a few questions. I dig deep into these on the episode, but here they are to consider: Is it a temporary roadblock? Can you look at it from another angle? What was your WHY to begin with? Have you had mission drift? Can you remove (or add) a part of the problem? What do you want the change to be? Can you ask for help... perspective? Remind yourself NOTHING is perfect! You can find more information at or on Instagram /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26947419

Your Dream... NO Degree Required 05/18/2023

Your Dream... NO Degree Required In this episode, I will discuss the skills and attitudes needed to be a successful entrepreneur. There are more and more schools that now offer college degrees in entrepreneruship. Is that necessary? My opinion and experience is no. Successful entrepreneurs may or may not have degrees, but they do have similar drive and resilience. Let's look at the other skills that I have found to be extremely valuable in my entrepreneurial journey. Let look at your dream.... no degree required! To learn more- you can visit me website at and you can also follow me on /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26869308

Stop Selling the Bear a Teapot 05/11/2023

Stop Selling the Bear a Teapot We have all done it-- we want to try to sell our product/service to everyone! We know that it is a pefect fit for all mankind (insert sarcasm here). In this episode we are going to discuss finding your ideal customer/client. Why are we trying to market to the masses when we really want to connect with our customers. We want to become the "must have" for them, and that means being hyperfocused on identifying the correct customer. We need to figure our our ideal customer profile, and then move outward from there. We want to stop trying to sell those teapots to bears. For more information, you can connect with Dr. Cindy Briggs on her website or via Instagram /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26812170

Let's talk MLM... pros, cons, and everything in between 04/27/2023

Let's talk MLM... pros, cons, and everything in between Yes, we are going to take on a tough subject this week. MLM's. Social Selling. Networking Marketing. This topic pulls very strong feelings from people on both sides of the conversation. For years I told people to stay away from every one of these businesses, but now I can look at both sides. I see the pros involved, the cons involved, and what you should know before you decide either way. This week we are going to just discuss the pros and cons. I am not discussing any specific companies--- I just ask that you research any of them before you sign on the dotted line. You can learn more about me at or via Instagram (@) /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26651415

Death by Business Planning 04/13/2023

Death by Business Planning You may have already heard this--- you mention to people you want to start a business and they say you need to write a business plan. I know we have lost many entrepreneurs because the idea of business planning is just down right scary. Where do you begin? How do you know what information to include? IS IT EVEN NECESSARY? We are are going to talk about why it IS and ISN'T necessary! This episode will help you understand they when and why behind writing this plan. Also, I have a special treat for listeners of this episode ;-) You will hear about it when you listen. You can learn more about me and how I help entrepreneurs thrive at . /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26536362

Brainstorming Business Ideas 04/06/2023

Brainstorming Business Ideas I hear it so often... "I would love to start a business but I have no idea what I could start." The drive to be an entrepreneur is there, but we just need to kickstart some ideas. Join me on this episode when I really do a brain dump of different business ideas. Everything from an online shop to a full brick and mortar store (and everything in between). Grab a paper and pen and do some braininstorming with me. Let's try to find your sweet spot in this entrepreneur vision. For more business information, visit my website at and also follow me on Instagram @cindybriggsphd. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26467644

When to NOT start a business 03/30/2023

When to NOT start a business As a business coach, I am always encouraging people to start their own business. Being an entrepreneur can be very rewarding. However, I have found more and more that I am stopping people-- or at least telling them to go back to the drawing board. There are things that every potential entrepreneur needs to think about BEFORE they decide to jump in. I want people to be responsible when they decide to make this move. Listen as I discuss the things you should think about before you begin that business. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/26396424

Writing Our Obituary 01/11/2023

Writing Our Obituary None of us what to think about our own obituary, but you know what... we are living it right now. Our obituary is the ultimate highlight reel. Listen as I discuss what this might look like, and how we are working to live a meaningful life....both in our business and personal lives. Let's live each day knowing these moments make up the sum of our lives. You can also read more at . Also, here is a link to the article I discuss in this episode: /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/25579614

Your ONE Key to Success 10/27/2022

Your ONE Key to Success We hear it all of the time-- there are all of these "keys" to success. If we follow them, all things will be wonderful. Join Dr. Cindy Briggs as she discussses this concept and explains your true key to success.... and you might be surprised. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/24806742

The Moment the Judge Said 10/20/2022

The Moment the Judge Said Did you know that more than 65% of new businesses fail in the first 10 years? That point can be sobering, but doesn't stop entrepreneurs. We are those people with wild dreams, and visions of what can be. There are times when the failure is yours... and it starts to define you. Join Dr. Cindy Briggs as she discusses a very personal business failure... and what you can do if it happens to you. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/24724797

Funding Your Business (Part 1) 08/11/2022

Funding Your Business (Part 1) You have the dream, the idea, and the passion... what you don't have is the funding to start your venture. Cindy is going to walk you through differnt funding options and where to begin. This episode will discuss the initial information you need to move forward. Go to for more information and helpful forms you can use. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/24003027

Proactive vs. Reactive Business (and Life) 07/26/2022

Proactive vs. Reactive Business (and Life) Today's episode is going to cover something we can embrace whether at work or home. We have to decide if we are going to ultimately be working in a proactive mode, or a reactive mode, and how each can be beneficial at times. Dr. Cindy Briggs will give examples from her own business and home life to help you put this topic into action. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/23862639

Living Your Values 07/14/2022

Living Your Values In business, we often talk about our vision statment and our mission statement. Should we also be discusing our core values? In this episide, we are going to discuss what it means to choose your core values, and how these can impact your business life too. Join Dr. Cindy Briggs as she walks you through an exercise to determine your core values. She will also explain the best way to implement these (if you aren't already.) /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/23738432

Launching Your Child's Business Dream 06/30/2022

Launching Your Child's Business Dream If you are an entrepreneur, you may see your children become budding entrepreneurs. That is what has happened at our house. Our children have found a place to explore their dreams, and even launch them. It gives them not only some spending money, but also gets them to understand the entire business process. This episode we will talk about how to do this with my guest, Jackson Briggs (my son), who has just celebrated his first year in business.... and he is nine. Visit my blog for more detailed information after you listen to the episode. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/23589206

Serving on a Nonprofit Board (Networking Series) 06/20/2022

Serving on a Nonprofit Board (Networking Series) As we have discussed networking, one area I mentioned is serving on a nonprofit board of directors. This might sound overwhelming, but it is easier that you think. In this episode I discuss what it means to serve on a board, and how to get started. I also provide other resources to get you ready to serve. This is a chance to make a difference with a cause you believe in. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/23486786

Networking 101 06/13/2022

Networking 101 As an entrepreneur, it is important that you understand different ways to network. This can be beneficial for your business and community. These skills can also be used in job searches, or even if you move to a new city. Dr. Briggs will cover places to check out networking opporutnities, and how to connect. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/23400320

Pivot! 06/06/2022

Pivot! Many of us were raised to believe you had a dream, you chased it, and you stuck with it...forever. But what if you are allowed to change your dream completey? What if you are allowed to pivot? In this episode, Dr. Cindy Briggs will discuss what she calls the Great Pivot, and how you can embrace this in your life (like she has in her own life!) /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/23343110

But I don't have an MBA! 12/22/2021

But I don't have an MBA! Often people have dreams of starting their own business, but then they get scared because they don't have a business background. They will tell me... I never even took a business class in college! In this episode, I am going to discuss all the ways you can learn without the formal degree path. If you have worried about your "lack of education" -- this is the episode to calm your fears. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/21567674

The Dreaded Question.. Can I Pick Your Brain? 12/16/2021

The Dreaded Question.. Can I Pick Your Brain? In the service world, there is probably not another more dreaded question. Sometimes it comes with a coffee invitation, or a lunch invite...but in there is the "so I can pick your brain." In this episode we are going to discuss how to handle this question, and also how to not ask this question. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/21507653

Girls, Mom's, and Pigs? 10/27/2021

Girls, Mom's, and Pigs? You may have think I lost my mind with this title...what in the world can girls, mom's and pigs have to do with women in business? Listen in as we discuss the "cute" names that have been attached to women entrepreneurs and why I completely disagree with these phrases. Let's just say "mom-eprenuer" is one I hate. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/20959994

The Passion Around Direct Sales Organizations 10/19/2021

The Passion Around Direct Sales Organizations We have all come in contact with them... the "amazing business opportunities" that are direct sales companies (better known as MLM businesses). There is such a love/hate relationship with these types of organizations. Instead of me judging these business opportunities-- I wanted to look at the key questions you should ask if you are looking into joining one. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/20809115

The Hard Question: What is the value of my product/service 08/12/2021

The Hard Question: What is the value of my product/service We all know we bring value as an entrepreneur-- but how do we set a price on that value? If we charge too much we might lose a sale, but if we don't charge enough we may not be valued. It is a balancing act and we will discuss how to make those decisions. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/20125310

5 Steps to Start Your Business 07/13/2021

5 Steps to Start Your Business You have the dream, and you want to start a business- but you are not sure what steps you should take. This episode will give you 5 quick things to do to get moving. You just need to get your idea into an action. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/19796213

Having a for-profit business with a nonprofit heart 07/06/2021

Having a for-profit business with a nonprofit heart You have a for profit business, but you want to give back-- you want to be community minded and make a real impact. You do not have to choose between being a for-profit and a nonprofit-- you can incorporate certain values into your business to make a lasting impact on the community around you. Learn more about social entrepreneurism and how it can help you. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/19718207

Phrases You Should STOP Using in Business 06/28/2021

Phrases You Should STOP Using in Business Did you realize we use phrases almost daily that could be negatively impacting our business. You will be surprised at what they are because we are taught these are good phrases. We are taught they are polite. We need to flip the script and learn how to replace these negative phrases with positive ones. /episode/index/show/thebusinessincubator/id/19630106

The Business Professor with Dr. Cindy Briggs

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