Proofing Stage

Joan Kanner, Michelle Bond
  • 5.0 (7)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • BIWEEKLY SERIES
Proofing Stage

Proofing Stage examines the origins, progress, struggles, and setbacks of entrepreneurs through the lens of its founders, who, among other things, have run a bagel business for the past 8 years. This podcast is about our experiences and the nitty gritty of being an underrepresented small business owner.Just like we've worked to fill the gap in quality bagels, lox, and schmear, these conversations fill the gap of knowledge, mentorship, and straight talk that are missing from other business pods and success stories. Join us, as we share wins and cautionary tales from that space between “atta girl” and “I told you so!” Hosted by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond, with Season 1 contributions from Amanda Schwarz.

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  1. EPISODE 1

    Breaking the Bank: Grants' Biggest Secrets Revealed

    Get That Cash! Business Grant Guidance Straight Cash Opportunities for Your Business, Homie. Finally, the pro-tip episode we've been promising for ages! Well, about two seasons anyway. From grant-writing to review, Michelle and Joan join forces for a content rich, use right now conversation on grants.  The two focus on finding, applying and reporting on those funding sources that are the best fit for your needs, while creating a process that keeps your admin time light but can still drop the cash needed to start, grow or scale your business. From getting to know administrators to weaving the story that keeps you front and center for future opportunities, this discussion takes years of writing and reviewing grant applications and distills the basics (and then some). For those looking to take advantage of these sometimes-slippery-but-almost-always worth-it resources to support your next project, hire or revenue stream - you're gonna wanna hit "save" on this one.  Like: Grants vs. hanging with Bea Arthur in a money machineGrant-writing experience matters, and you can build itGetting clear on your needs and use of funds90-day action plans and a boilerplate are everythingEssential grant components and how to excel at themTracking and reporting progress even when it's not "required" Grant Speak 101 See full definitions on the Proofing Stage website BudgetCost sharingEffortNon-dilutive fundingPost-award managementPre-award costsPrime sponsorProgress reportsProgram ManagerProject periodRequest for Applications (RFA)Links Chama Capital Check out their grants database for upcoming opportunities. They're a great source for seeing what's available. Bonus! Their list is organized and you can sort based on eligibility requirements.  Credits Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional Music by: wildman48 (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye  Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    57 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Representation Matters: The 'Who's Got You' of Good PR

    Megan Hanson, Public Relations & Communications Consultant In an age of perpetual content creation and AI, you don't tend to hear much about traditional PR anymore. Often, it can feel like it's about the likes, the engagement numbers. And, don't get us wrong, measures are important. But here's a secret that this Proofing Stage episode shouts loud and proud: It's the people behind those measures that matter most. Customers. Team Members. Your Publicist - these are all people, baby. Actual human beings who, in the words of Megan Hanson, "want to connect with actual human beings." Start ups and bootstrapping small businesses often don't have the budget, or sometimes even the vision, to see how the long game of relationship building can pay off big. It takes time, effort, money and skills that not everyone has or has the bandwidth for. Today's conversation with Megan fills in the gaps about what you need to know to decide if working with a PR person is right for you, and if it's the right time. Together with Megan, Michelle and Joan explore mission and personal and professional fit, because at the end of the day you need the best ambassador you can have to represent your business. And, that definition of best? Well, that's completely up to you.   Representation matters in more ways than one: Breaking through the noise takes timeBuilding relationships and contacting the right peopleGiving up on a dream to find the best pathAdjusting thinking from sales calls onlyEvolving as the game changes around youChoosing a supporting cast, rather than a starring role Connect with Megan Hanson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/megankhanson/ Email - hanson.meg@gmail.com Colorado Folks, check out Thunderview CEO Dinners Toilets & Plunjr's PR Success Stories Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional Music by: The_Mountain (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye  Ad written and performed by Joan Kanner Ad music by: Tech_Oasis (via Pixabay) Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    57 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    What Qualifies You? Passion, Position, Funding & Filmmaking

    Dr. Anaïs Webster Mennuti, PharmD Co-founder of Shots With That LLC Marie Wilda, Founder/CEO Lenkai.co  In this week's episode Michelle and Joan sit down with producers, Anaïs and Marie, to learn more about the driving factors behind their documentary film, Harmacy, including their personal experiences and funding sought to make it happen. While Big Pharma and the opioid epidemic have flooded our culture and consciousness, less attention has been paid to pharmacies themselves - their workers, and the people they serve. As corporate chains have elbowed out community pharmacies, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians also experience burnout, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, miscarriage, and even death. Patients experience frustration and fear of not being able to fill their prescriptions on time and the harmful repercussions that result. Our conversation looks at what it takes to bring this project (or any) to life - experience, persistence, money and connections are just the beginning. The question of "What qualifies you?" is familiar territory for women and underrepresented leaders in every industry and position. Join us for (another) candid conversation about why shedding light is important, what it takes to be heard, and the value of just doing the thing in order to prove your concept and build momentum. If you're thinking about any of the following, this one's for you: The hidden costs of things often not discussedTiming of pursuing a larger platform to tell your storyFinding a team to help you flesh out a conceptValuing your time and effort in relation to budgetBreaking into an industry as an outsiderUnderstanding where your work fits in a larger cultural contextUsing your lived and professional experience to do something others can'tOh, and stick around until the very end of the episode to learn about our surprise sponsor! Connect with Harmcacy Film: Web: Harmacy Film Socials: @HarmacyFilm Email for investment opportunities Anaïs Webster Mennuti, PharmD  Director / Producer / Co-Creator IG: @anaiswebmen Marie Wilda, Producer Founder / CEO Lenkai.co (B2B Revenue Accelerator) IG: @m_esther12 LinkedIn Links: Docs in Progress Scroobious Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional Music by: AnyStyle via Pixabay & HVRGND via Pixabay Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye Ad written and performed by Joan Kanner Ad music by: Lexin_Music via Pixabay Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    43 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Gratitude for Changing Our Minds: Business Books that Go Down Easy

    Some things never change, and this includes our appetite for business self-help books. This holiday week, we're sharing a special episode with Joan and Michelle, discussing leadership-development propaganda from days gone by. What do concepts of success and decision-making look like in the rear view mirror, and what, perhaps not surprisingly, still holds true? Spend some time in this cozy conversation with our Proofing Stage hosts as they carve out some of these perspectives and serve up some of their own. It's the ultimate "proofing" episode just in time for your Thanksgiving trek, prep, to-do list, or downtime.  This week, we're exploring: The industry of business self-help booksWhat's changed (and hasn't) about who's qualified to share expertiseHow conceptual models can provide guidance and bust our blocksWhere the House of Woo has moved to (and from)The cultural and environmental barriers at play in our work and in our minds We are thankful for you!  Books: Everybody's Money by Sharon Stark, et al. The Relaxation Response by Herbert Benson, M.D. with Miriam Z. KlipperWinners & Losers by Sydney J. Harris, illustrated by Nicole HollanderSix Action Shoes by Edward de BonoConceptual Blockbusting: A Pleasurable Guide to Better Problem Solving by James L. Adams *Check out book covers and artwork at proofingstage.com Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional Music: Dance All Night by alanajordan (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    1h 1m

  5. EPISODE 5

    Getting a Grip: Occupational & Entrepreneurial Therapy

    Brandy Archie, OTD, OTR/L, CLIPP Founder, CEO at AskSAMIE  Part session with your OT, part advice on goal setting and business management from your ET ("Entrepreneur Therapist"), Dr. Brandy Archie drops all kinds of knowledge on this week's episode. From her approach to working with those looking to age in place, to her lessons from multiple ventures aimed at improving patient quality of life, independence and self-determination, Brandy is leading the conversation for caregivers and founders alike. And have we mentioned that she hosts the Care Lab podcast?  Together, Michelle, Joan and Brandy discuss the benefits of accessibility inside and outside of your home. Brandy also shares her insights on what it takes to run a growing business while setting milestones that support you reaching your big, audacious goal.  Now that the season of giving (and buying) is upon us, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention that - in addition to pro-tips for making your environment work better for you and those you care about - Brandy's AskSAMIE platform also offers unique products, used and approved by professionals that make it easier to live independently and on our own terms. Hold on, we're chatting about: Occupational therapy and why it matters now, not just laterEntrepreneurial solutions to healthcare gapsHow to see your physical space through a different lensSometimes you just need to know how to do a thingHow to flip the script on "prevention" questions in your pitchSnarky feedback might still have meritThe importance of relationships in success, and knowing what to ask for Social Media Links: https://www.asksamie.com https://www.facebook.com/AskSAMIE https://www.instagram.com/asksamie https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbrandyarchie/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/asksamie/ https://www.twitter.com/Ask_SAMIE Handles: FB @AskSAMIE IG @AskSAMIE Twitter @Ask_SAMIE Youtube @Ask-SAMIE Linked In @AskSAMIE Links: Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone 1 Million Cups The Baker's Body: Integrating Strategies for Physical Wellbeing and Longevity in Your Bakery Episode Sponsor: Hers Electric Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional Music: Bop It - Audio Tonic (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    49 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    HR Magic with The Human Resorceress

    Joanne Lakomski, Human Resorceress Coaching and Consulting  At a time of year when we can feel overwhelmed, reflective, daunted and blessed (often within the same 30 minutes), we've got a salve for both your personal and professional pain points. This week Michelle and Joan connect with Joanne Lakomski, the Human Resorceress, bringing years of expertise in HR and Organizational Development to her coaching and consulting practice.  Joanne's sorcery leverages a love and articulation of concepts and how they can illustrate what's at play in our work environments, and in our own minds. Her powers encourage deep listening and engagement, breaking down challenges to their specific elements and giving us a different lens through which to examine them.  Our conversation is as warm and deep as it is silly and real, and offers the perfect treat for yourself this holiday season. Whether you're looking to take stock of 2024 milestones, or plan for new approaches in 2025, our time with Joanne puts the humanity of HR front and center, and gives plenty of potent wisdom for us to proof on and practice in the process.  Some enchanted takeaways: Bev naps as the tried and true whiteboardWorkplace quid pro quos when it comes to authenticityThe neuroscience behind our decision makingHow you show up and the power of being seenHaving clarity of purpose and alignment tools to get thereBeing jazzed about embracing our female power Connect with Joanne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-lakomski/ humanresorceress.org Links: Bev Nap Wisdom Mihaly "The Father of Flow" Csikszentmihalyi See Joanne's Flow Diagram bev nap coaching.com Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional Music: Asimov by fanchisanchez (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    47 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    You Can't Grow by Cutting: The 20/25 Experience

    Susan Clayton, Founder of WhitePaws RunMitts  Better now or better now? Better now? Like many of you, we're entering the new year fine-tuning our vision and calling on our support systems. This includes brilliant business minds like, Susan Clayton, Founder of WhitePaws RunMitts who is hitting her stride while elevating themes for underrepresented founders with candor and joy.  How can many of these businesses are both over-mentored and under-supported? How can spending money be difficult, and asking questions be threatening? Susan commiserates with Michelle and Joan in the Proofing Stage era, with sharpened perspective and insights. Together they challenge themselves and others, discussing equity, business savvy, permission vs. forgiveness, spending capital, disrupting systems and holding mentors (aka gatekeepers) accountable.  This episode unboxes a wealth of holiday gifts and reorganizes the way we see ourselves and can operate in the world - demanding more and helping one another along the way. Run with us.  Segments include: Building a Supportive Team and Trusting RelationshipsImportance of Long-Term Strategy, Collaborations and CommunityNeed for Practical Support in Business and Impact of Bureaucracy on Small BusinessesRisk and Growth in EntrepreneurshipCalling out Bias and Unconscious ObstaclesDefining Effective Mentorship and Protecting Intellectual Property Connect with Susan Clayton: https://runmitts.com/ IG: @whitepaws_runmitts FB: @whitepawsrunmitts Blue Sky: @runmitts.bsky.social Linkedin: @Susan(RunMitts, LLC)Clayton Links: More on themes in this episode in S1: EP4, The Myth of Meritocracy/Mentorship, Schmentorship Scroobious' vendor marketplace The Johns Hopkins Wilmer Eye Institute REI Path Ahead Ventures Episode Sponsor: Trash B Gone Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional music:  Tom Thumb - Feeling the Flow (via Pixabay) take out the trash by Jacob Field (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    57 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    Defund, Dismiss, Delete: Business Lessons from Forgotten Radicals

    Dr. Eleanor Rust and Dr. Tristra Newyear Yeager Producers, Writers & Hosts of Frances Wright: America's Forgotten Radical Women have - and do - play significant roles in shaping history, yet their stories are often never recorded in the first place or simply erased. By answering the question "Frances who?" Eleanor and Tristra provide insights into how some women-owned businesses are also forgotten - if they were acknowledged at all. Tired of battling algos? Navigating the troubled waters of modern journalism? Let's redefine success and shed light on women while they're making history.  Oyez! Oyez! Gather 'round as we discuss how: Historical narratives should include contributions from diverse folksErasure doesn't have to happen, if you identify its methods and sourcesEngaging with history can inspire contemporary movements for changeFrances Wright's legacy serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equalityStorytelling can amplify marginalized voices... NOWRemember: unlike Vegas, whatever happened in New Harmony shouldn't stay there. Connect with Eleanor & Tristra: Eleanor’s 19th-century history writings Tristra’s author website Links: Most of the obscure references made during this episode... Charon Cassandra Orphic dresses New Harmony, Indiana Working Men's Institute First-wave feminism Downright Gabbler cartoon of Frances Wright Hegelian process Broadsides Kindness Tree Movement MDWST Fable Josiah Warren Modern Times Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional music by DirectToDreams The Dangers of Polka PSA Written by Joan Kanner Performed by Michelle Bond and Joan Kanner Music by Sonican; Alana Jordan Podcast Cover Art: Lisa Orye Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    1h 1m

  9. EPISODE 9

    REPRISE! Don't Say "DEI," Just Make it Mean Something

    When times are shit and you need a pep talk... and strategies... and allies...  It's time to return to our Season 2 Episode with: Erin Stampp, she/her, MPP - Director, Professional Development Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis In this episode of Proofing Stage, hosts Michelle Bond and Joan Kanner are joined by DEI practitioner Erin Stampp. Together, they unpack the challenges and necessities of implementing effective DEI strategies, even for minority business owners. Erin emphasizes that true diversity goes beyond visibility; focusing on fostering an inclusive culture where diverse identities are seen and valued. The conversation also covers practical aspects like dietary restrictions in food businesses and universal design. Michelle and Joan share their experiences with integrating these practices into Bottoms Up Bagels, including staff reticence and industry norms. Erin highlights the importance of relational, equity-centered leadership, which involves creating a supportive environment through active listening and engagement. She addresses retention challenges and the truly counter-cultural work of inclusion and systemic change.  Join us for a very open conversation about our blind spots, power-sharing in leadership, and the self-compassion required to make it stick. Like: Asking for, listening to and implementing input is where it’s atHow we can turn our exclamation points into question marksWhere the anti-racism, anti-sexism fairy dust residesThe trappings of cancel cultureTaking a sec to acknowledge what’s working and build on itBig, sexy (self-) compliments go a long way Links Check out one of Erin’s current projects, a Desegregation History Timeline (education aid to advance culture change) Connect with Erin Stampp LinkedIn Instagram Faux Sponsor, "Cartoon Mallet"  - written and performed by Joan Kanner Theme music by Thorn Haze Additional music: Combat Morning by Den Writeman (via Pixabay) Music for Puzzle Game by Ivantraveso (via Pixabay) Executive Producers,  Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Podcast cover art by Lisa Orye Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    1h 4m

  10. EPISODE 10

    Panning for Feedback Gold: A Strategy Bonanza

    Marie Silverstrim, User Experience (UX) Designer Whether you are observing actions or directly asking, your customers and clients are telling you something. Understanding not only what that is but the why behind it... well, that's what gets you to the good stuff. And, while it's always a good time to make sure your business goals are aligned with customer needs, Q1 of 2025 continues to remind us that the behaviors we use to understand these needs might not mean what we think they do, or what they once did. Just as possible, new and wonderful opportunities might emerge from this disruption.  As we consider ways to understand existing customers and reach new ones during periods of uncertainty, our guide is Marie Silverstrim, a UX designer who is a master at breaking down concepts and delivering practical advice that is immediately actionable.  Together with Joan Kanner's love of all things survey and Michelle Bond's contextualization of business in the current moment, we wrap up Proofing Stage's third season with an honest-to-goodness bonanza of tools and anecdotes to help you meet your moment. E.g.: Good design often goes unnoticed, making it feel invisibleFeedback from users is essential for improving products and servicesSurveys and direct conversations can yield valuable insightsStakeholder opinions can differ from user needs; balance is keyIterative design allows for continuous improvement and adaptationThe real 'why' behind user feedback is essential for growth Links Classic UX 101 books: Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman Other books: Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself by Nedra Glover Tawwab Burnout by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski Glossary: Institutional Review Board (IRB)Likert scalePersonally identifiable information (PII)PollThe following UX terms may be found here: AffordancesMinimum viable product (MVP)QualitativeQuantitativeFocus groupsSurveyagile UXA/B testing Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional music by Come On Boy by MondayHopes Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    1h 8m

  11. BONUS

    BONUS: They Burned Women, Not Witches with The Human Resorceress

    Tabitha? Cute, but don't mess.  Endora? Fierce. Sabrina? Work. Joanne Lakomski? Um, legend. We're here with some new, free bonus content to start off 2025. Our recording with Joanne Lakomski, The Human Resorceress, was particularly content-rich and timely as we reflect on this past year while priming us for the new one. Hey, if you're one of our Proofing Stage+ Patreon subscribers, this is your second bonus with Joanne. Just a little plug for supporting us in that way. Ahem...  This bonus content highlights themes that we couldn't fit into our main episode with Joanne. Wanna know one? All right. Let me give you a hint. There are so many things we find irritating that people regularly do. One is using the word "witch" to sanitize what they really want to call someone - "bitch." Yes, it's annoying that they're unnecessarily pulling a punch. But for us, it's also about mislabeling someone as a "witch." Rude.  Don't be a Derwood! Treat yourself by listening to this bonus episode. While we're at it - shout out to the Gladys Kravitzs in your life! Connect with Joanne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-lakomski/ humanresorceress.org Links: Axiology Robert Hartman  Hierophant Credits: Theme Music by Thorn Haze Additional music: 魔女 witch by nojisuma (via Pixabay) Podcast Cover Art by Lisa Orye Produced by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond Find more at proofingstage.com Follow us on Instagram and Threads @proofingstage Join Proofing Stage+ to support us supporting you, AND access new bonus content in-between episodes! See Buzzsprout's Privacy Policy for listener privacy and read our disclaimer here.

    18 min
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About

Proofing Stage examines the origins, progress, struggles, and setbacks of entrepreneurs through the lens of its founders, who, among other things, have run a bagel business for the past 8 years. This podcast is about our experiences and the nitty gritty of being an underrepresented small business owner.Just like we've worked to fill the gap in quality bagels, lox, and schmear, these conversations fill the gap of knowledge, mentorship, and straight talk that are missing from other business pods and success stories. Join us, as we share wins and cautionary tales from that space between “atta girl” and “I told you so!” Hosted by Joan Kanner and Michelle Bond, with Season 1 contributions from Amanda Schwarz.

Information

  • Creator
    Joan Kanner, Michelle Bond
  • Episodes
    47
  • Seasons
    3
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Proofing Stage
  • Show Website
    Proofing Stage

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