The How of Business - How to start, run, grow and exit a small business.

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: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/551-5-stages-of-entrepreneurship/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

Super Communicators - how to unlock the secret language of connection with journalist and the author Charles Duhigg. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/550-charles-duhigg-super-communicators/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

Small Business Human Resources management with Claudia St. John. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/549-claudia-st-john-human-resources/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

Highlights from 2024 Top 5 Episodes, based on unique listener downloads. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/548-2024-top-5-episodes/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

Lessons from The Art of Shaving: starting, growing, and selling The Art of Shaving company. Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/547-eric-malka-the-art-of-shaving/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

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: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/r504-strategic-planning/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

How to own a successful Power Washing franchise small business with Aaron Harper.  Show Notes Page: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/546-aaron-harper-power-washing-franchise/ 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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

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: https://www.thehowofbusiness.com/r255-ruth-soukup-overcoming-fear / "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 https://TheHowOfBusiness.com

Andrew Hartman, Founder of Time Boss, shares his insights on taking control of time to reduce stress and enhance productivity. He introduces his unique 'Time Boss' framework, emphasizing task prioritization and boundary setting. Listeners learn about practical strategies like time blocking and weekly reflection to manage interruptions and improve work-life balance. Andrew also discusses overcoming personal burnout and how establishing a supportive culture can enhance team communication. His methods aim to help business owners multiply their time effectively.

Discover the top 10 productivity tools that can supercharge your efficiency as a small business owner. Learn how Outlook keeps your scheduling organized, while Canva helps create stunning visuals. Find out why ChatGPT is the go-to for content generation and how Zapier automates tedious tasks. Unpack the benefits of Mailchimp and HubSpot for effective client communication. Get insights on choosing affordable and user-friendly technology to streamline your operations and boost productivity.