Small Business Strong

John Lane
  • 4.8 (4)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Monthly

Thinking about starting a business? Thinking about buying a business? Small Business Strong is a podcast hosted by John Lane, focused on real conversations with small business owners about how businesses are actually built — and sustained. Each episode, I sit down with small business owners to talk through how they got to where they are today — and what they would do differently if they had to start all over again. We cover the real decisions, the hard lessons, and the things that mattered most along the way, including faith, rest, and the realities of building a business that lasts.

  1. 22h ago

    Episode 25: Turning a Duck Hunting Problem Into a Business | Todd Ezzi | Rixey Outdoors

    How do you launch a product in the hunting industry? Todd Ezzi saw a need for a dog stand that was lightweight, strong, and practical—so he went into his garage and built one himself. What started as a solution to his own problem has grown into Rixey Outdoors, producing quality dog stands at a great price. In this episode of Small Business Strong, Todd shares the story of how that garage-built idea became a real business. Looking for a lightweight, durable dog stand? Check out Rixey Outdoors. https://rixeyoutdoors.com/ Have a small-business story or know someone who should be on the podcast? Email us at  smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Subscribe to Small Business Strong for more full-length conversations with entrepreneurs building businesses from the ground up. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/c/SmallBusinessStrong?utm_source=campaign-search-results

  2. Aug 12

    Episode 24: They Started A Deer Feed Company In Their Garage | Marlon (Catfish) & Willa Glover | MTX

    How do you start a successful deer feed company? In this episode of Small Business Strong, I sit down with Marlon (Catfish) and Willa Glover, founders of MTX, to talk about what it really looks like to build a business while keeping God at the center. We discuss the lessons God taught them before their company began to grow, the importance of serving customers well, what makes MTX different, and the challenges every entrepreneur faces when quitting seems easier than pressing on. They also share how marriage, faith, and business work together, the mistakes they’ve learned from, and what they hope their legacy will be when it’s all said and done. Whether you’re building a business, leading a family, or simply trying to be faithful where God has you today, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with another entrepreneur. Connect with MTX: https://www.facebook.com/MTXtrailmix https://www.instagram.com/mtxtrailmix/ Follow Small Business Strong: Instagram: @smallbusinessstrongpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallBusinessStrong Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/small-business-strong/id1847801374 Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: ⁠ https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong⁠

  3. Aug 5

    Episode 23: From Buying a Fish Farm to Becoming an Industry Leader | Mike Freeze | Keo Fish Farms

    How do you start a successful fish farm? In Episode 23 of Small Business Strong, I sit down with Mike Freeze, owner of Keo Fish Farms, to hear the story of how he purchased a fish farm and helped grow it into one of the leading aquaculture businesses in the country. Mike shares the challenges of buying an established business, growing it over decades, adapting to industry changes, and producing hybrid striped bass and triploid grass carp. We also discuss leadership, customer relationships, hiring great people, long-term decision-making, and the lessons he’s learned after nearly 50 years in the aquaculture industry. Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind successful companies, this episode is packed with practical business wisdom from someone who has built a lasting legacy. In this episode: How Mike Freeze bought Keo Fish FarmsGrowing a fish farm into an industry leaderThe business of aquacultureProducing hybrid striped bass and triploid grass carpLeadership and long-term business growthLessons learned from nearly 50 years in businessAdvice for the next generation of entrepreneurs About Small Business Strong Small Business Strong is the podcast where successful entrepreneurs share the real stories behind the businesses they’ve built—the wins, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way. If you enjoy honest conversations with business owners and want practical insights you can apply to your own journey, be sure to follow the show and share this episode with another entrepreneur. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member:  https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong

    Episode 23: From Buying a Fish Farm to Becoming an Industry Leader | Mike Freeze | Keo Fish Farms

  4. Jul 29

    Episode 22: From Addiction to Building a Premium Boat Company | Louis Perrero | South Dade Skiffs

    How do you start a boat building company? In this episode of Small Business Strong, I sit down with Louis Perrero, founder of South Dade Skiffs, to hear the story behind one of the most unique skiff manufacturers in the country. Louis opens up about:-How South Dade Skiffs got its name-His life before sobriety-Working as a deckhand on luxury yachts-The painful fishing accident that put a hook through his leg-Building his very first fiberglass boat-The financial risk of creating his first mold and launching a company-What he’d do if he had to rebuild everything from scratch-The legacy he hopes to leave behind. This isn’t just a conversation about boats—it’s about resilience, craftsmanship, second chances, and what it really takes to build something meaningful. If you’re an entrepreneur, outdoorsman, fisherman, or someone chasing a dream, this episode is for you.👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who loves small business and the outdoors. Connect with South Dade Skiffs on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/southdadeskiff Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member:  ⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong⁠

  5. Jul 25

    Episode 21: Building a Business Without Losing Your Identity | Joey D'Amico | Tekton Game Calls

    How do you start a duck call company? In this episode of Small Business Strong, I sit down with Joey D’Amico, founder of Tekton Game Calls, to discuss faith, entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and the importance of keeping your identity rooted in Christ rather than your career. Joey shares the story behind Tekton Game Calls, explains the biblical meaning of the name “Tekton,” and talks about using his business as a platform to share the gospel. We also discuss the pride God had to strip away in his life, what has allowed Tekton to stand out in the outdoor industry, and the difficult seasons that shaped him into the man he is today. Whether you’re building a business, pursuing excellence in your craft, or simply seeking to honor God through your work, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. • The story behind Tekton Game Calls• Why your identity should never be your business• Sharing the gospel through entrepreneurship• Faith, family, and business priorities• Building products with excellence• Standing out in a competitive industry• Rebuilding a business from scratch• Legacy, fatherhood, and following Christ Connect with Joey & Tekton Game Calls: Website: https://www.tektongamecalls.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tektongamecallsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TektonGameCalls For guest recommendations, sponsorship opportunities, or business inquiries:  smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Small Business Strong on Spotify and leave a rating. Every follow and review helps us reach more entrepreneurs who are striving to build successful businesses without compromising what matters most. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member:  ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong⁠⁠

  6. Jul 6

    Episode 20: MAG Feeders | James Reed | “Keep A Diggin"

    How do you start a deer feeder company? In this episode of Small Business Strong, I sit down with James Reed, founder of MAG Feeders, to talk about far more than deer feeders. We discuss faith, family, sacrifice, perseverance, and what it really takes to build something that lasts. James shares the story behind his first homemade prototype, the obstacles his family faced along the way, and why his motto, “Keep A Diggin’,” has become more than just a saying—it’s a way of life. We also dive into: How MAG Feeders got its startThe role faith has played throughout the journeyThe sacrifices required to build a businessAdvice for anyone dreaming of becoming an entrepreneurWhat James hopes people remember long after the business is goneWhether you’re building a company, chasing a dream, or simply need encouragement to keep going, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humility, and hope. Keep A Diggin’.  Small Business Strong is a podcast sharing the real stories behind small business owners—the struggles, setbacks, victories, and lessons that shaped them into the people they are today. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a rating, and share it with someone who could use the encouragement.  Business inquiries, guest recommendations, or questions:smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member:  ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong⁠⁠

  7. Jul 2

    Episode 19: The Reality of Buying a Small Business: Freedom, Risk & Growth | Andrew Plagens

    What does it really take to own a successful small business? In this episode of Small Business Strong, I sit down with Andrew Plagens, owner of Aluminum Alloys, to discuss what it’s like to buy an established business instead of starting one from scratch. Andrew shares why he chose business ownership, the freedom it has created for his family, the unexpected challenges he’s faced, and the lessons he’s learned leading a company in the aluminum industry. Whether you’re thinking about buying a business, becoming an entrepreneur, or you’re already running a company, this conversation is packed with honest insights about the highs and lows of ownership. In this episode, we cover:• Why Andrew decided to buy an existing business• The freedom and responsibility that come with entrepreneurship• Challenges every business owner should expect• Leadership and decision-making under pressure• The future of the aluminum industry and where Andrew sees the company going If you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring business owner, or simply enjoy hearing real stories from people building great companies, this episode is for you. Like this video if you enjoyed the conversation. Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway. Subscribe for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, tradespeople, and business owners who are building something meaningful. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member:  ⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong⁠⁠

  8. May 27

    Episode 18: The #1 Remodeling Mistake Homeowners Make (That Costs Thousands)

    Should homeowners buy their own materials, or should the contractor handle it? In this episode of Small Business Strong, we break down when homeowners should buy fixtures, tile, paint colors, and finishes — and when contractors should handle materials for better quality, durability, and fewer problems. We also cover the biggest mistakes that cause delays, surprise costs, and frustration during remodeling projects. If you’re a homeowner, DIYer, landlord, or contractor, this episode will help you save time, money, and headaches on your next project. Questions or comments?smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Handiwork Startup System- https://handiwork.gumroad.com/l/HandiworkStartupSystem

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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Thinking about starting a business? Thinking about buying a business? Small Business Strong is a podcast hosted by John Lane, focused on real conversations with small business owners about how businesses are actually built — and sustained. Each episode, I sit down with small business owners to talk through how they got to where they are today — and what they would do differently if they had to start all over again. We cover the real decisions, the hard lessons, and the things that mattered most along the way, including faith, rest, and the realities of building a business that lasts.

Information

  • Creator
    John Lane
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © John Lane
  • Show Website
    Small Business Strong

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