The Mesa Business Builder’s Podcast

MesaBusinessBuilder
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-- a component of the Mesa Business Builder Toolbox

  1. 08/08/2025

    Episode 18: Understanding the 5 C’s of Credit: What Every Small Business Owner Should Know

    Access to capital is essential for small business growth—but how do banks decide who gets a loan? In this episode of the Mesa Business Builder Podcast, host Kelly Keffer speaks with David Scott, Arizona Market President of First Western Bank, about the “5 C’s of Credit”: Character, Capacity, Capital, Collateral, and Conditions. Whether you’re applying for a loan or building a banking relationship, this episode offers practical insights to help you prepare, grow, and thrive in today’s economy.

    23 min

  2. 07/24/2025

    Episode 17: Business Law Simplified: What Every Entrepreneur Should Know

    Navigating the legal side of your business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode of the Mesa Business Builder podcast, host Kelly Keffer sits down with business attorney Timothy Coons from Council Legal Firm to simplify business law for entrepreneurs. From choosing the right business structure and protecting your personal assets to understanding tax options and staying compliant, Tim breaks down the essentials you need to confidently grow your business. If you’re a small business owner looking for straightforward legal advice that actually makes sense, this episode is for you.

    24 min

  3. 07/11/2025

    Episode 16: Why Your Banker Should Be Part of Your Business Strategy

    In this episode of the Mesa Business Builder Podcast, host Kelly Kepher sits down with David Scott, Arizona Market President at First Western Bank—also known as the "Bearded Wizard of Finance." David shares why building a relationship with your banker is critical to small business success. From proactive planning and access to capital, to navigating strategic growth with a trusted advisor, this episode explores the deeper “why” behind strong financial partnerships and how they support long-term economic development in Mesa. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, hear real-world insights on how the right banking relationship can unlock your business's next big opportunity.

    13 min

  4. 06/26/2025

    Episode 15: Practical Tech That Helps Businesses Grow

    In this episode of the Mesa Business Builder Podcast, Kelley Keffer, Project Manager with the City of Mesa Office of Economic Development, sits down with Peter Costa—CEO and co-founder of Baltu Technologies. Peter shares how his early exposure to tech shaped his journey from video games to founding a company that connects education, business, and community through immersive technologies. Together, they discuss how small businesses can think strategically about using tools like virtual and augmented reality, how to evaluate tech against real-world needs and budgets, and why trust and transparency matter more than hype. Whether you're tech-savvy or tech-curious, this episode offers down-to-earth insights into innovation that serves a purpose.

    17 min

  5. 06/04/2025

    Episode 14: Breaking the Bubble: Tackling Entrepreneurial Loneliness

    In this Know Before You Grow session, we sit down with Carrie Sakket, a solopreneur and certified loneliness coach, to talk about one of the most unspoken challenges of entrepreneurship—loneliness. Whether you're launching your first venture or scaling solo, Carrie shares practical ways to stay connected, build community, and avoid isolation while growing your business.

    14 min

  6. 05/29/2025

    Episode 13: Digital Accessibility for Small Businesses

    In this episode we sit down with Amy Robinson and Christina Karaskia of Brand Girls Bakery — digital accessibility advocates, educators, and creative professionals — to explore what digital accessibility really means and why it's essential for today’s businesses. From color contrast and screen readers to inclusive UX design and SEO benefits, this conversation breaks down the tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that can help small businesses build more accessible and equitable digital experiences. Tune in to learn how accessibility can open doors, expand your audience, and strengthen your brand.

    26 min
  7. Episode 12: HR Essentials Every Small Business Should Know

    05/15/2025

    Episode 12: HR Essentials Every Small Business Should Know

    In this episode of Know Before You Grow, we sit down with PJ Williams, founder of PJ’s Presence, to break down the essential HR support every small business needs. From onboarding and compliance to building healthy workplace culture, PJ shares real-world advice on how to avoid costly mistakes and create strong HR foundations—whether you’re hiring your first employee or managing a growing team. If you’re a small business owner looking to gain clarity and confidence around HR, this episode is a must-listen.

    15 min

  8. 05/02/2025

    Episode 11: 5 Must-Haves for Small Business Marketing Success

    Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, Erica McBeth, Founder of McBeth Marketing, shares five core marketing strategies every small business needs to build brand awareness, connect with customers, and drive growth. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your approach, these actionable tips will help you focus on what really matters.

    19 min
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-- a component of the Mesa Business Builder Toolbox

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