The Small Business Mindset

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The Small Business Mindset Podcast is a real life, in the trenches conversation about how you can make your small business run successfully. Host Kirsten Flory, Founder and CEO of Foundations Commercial Real Estate, shares her journey on how she created a successful small businesses, and how she has helped her clients do the same. The Small Business Mindset also features guests that lend their expertise in the areas of: finance, staffing, marketing, and more.

  1. FEB 4

    144 - Build, Buy or Repurpose? Making the Right Real Estate Decision for Your Business

    Watch this episode on YouTube In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory sits down with Lance Johnson, Engineer with Bartlett & West Engineering, to unpack what business owners really need to think about before buying, renovating, or building a commercial property. For many entrepreneurs, occupying space is inevitable - but owning the right space can be a power wealth building strategy.  The challenge?  Most business owners are real estate developers.   Lance brings clarity to the process, breaking down the "boring but critical" elements of development that can save business owners from costly mistakes down the road. From planning to infrastructure to post-COVID construction costs and adaptive use, this conversation is packed with practical insights for business owners at every stage of growth. Key topics covered: Why proper planning upfront is the most important step before any build The "unsexy" but essential elements of development (i.e. foundations, drainage, HVAC, roofs) Where business owners should spend money - and where cutting corners can backfire New construction vs. buying and renovating: why there's no "one size fits all" answer How to evaluate "hairy" properties and identify real red flags Construction cost trends since COVID and why prices are unlikely to come back down The growing trend of repurposing building (office to housing, schools, churches, malls) Infill development vs. greenfield development - and the challenges of each How to protect yourself during development without slowing the project down Who should be on your development dream team (and why communication matters) What the development process actually looks like once you've selected your team How thinking long-term can reduce maintenance costs and increase durability Planning for future growth: building more space now vs. expanding later Lance Johnson is an engineer with Bartlett & West Engineering, bringing decades of experience in commercial development, infrastructure, and adaptive reuse projects across the country.  His practical, long-term approach helps business owners make smarter, ore sustainable real estate decisions. Contact Lance at: lance.johnson@bartwest.com   Final Thought: Whether you're outgrowing your current space, considering your first building purchase, or dreaming about a ground-up build, this episode will help you think strategically and realistically, about what it takes to create a space that truly works for your business. Connect with Kirsten Flory at: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to get updates on new episodes!

    37 min

  2. JAN 21

    143 - Is Your Business Actually Viable? 5 Tests Before You Spend a Dollar

    Watch this episode on You Tube! Before you invest time, money, and energy into a new business idea, there's one critical question you must answer: Is it actually viable? In this episode, host Kirsten Flory walks through give simple but powerful tests every entrepreneur should use to validate a startup idea before going all in.  Through real-world examples - from product ideas to grocery delivery services - Kirsten shares how asking the right questions early can save you significant time, money, and frustration. Key Takeaways: Why idea validation matters more than passion alone The difference between solving your problem and solving a market problem How to have real conversation without pitching Why "people like it" doesn't mean "people will pay for it" How to avoid perfectionism while still delivering value The importance of repeat customers and referrals Follow Kirsten Flory at: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And SUBSCRIBE to get updates and new episodes!

    14 min

  3. JAN 7

    142 - The Data You Need to Win in 2026

    Watch this episode on You Tube! As we kick of 2026, Kirsten Flory challenges small business owners to start the year with clarity - not guesswork.  In this episode, she breaks down the most important data points every entrepreneur should be tracking to make smarter decisions, improve profitability, and eliminate what's no longer working. From understanding where you sales really come from, to evaluating clients, marketing spend, staff performance and even product offerings, this episode is a practical roadmap to use data to drive growth. Kirsten also shares real-world examples from her own business, including a hard decision she made to walk away from a service that wasn't profitable - even though clients loved it. If you want 2026 to be your most focused, efficient, and profitable year yet, this episode will help you start with the right foundation. Key Takeaways: Why business data is one of your most profitable tools in 2026 What product-based and service-based businesses should be tracking How to identify your most valuable customers Evaluating marketing and advertising ROI How to analyze staffing, payroll and productivity Why annual employee evaluations matter more than you think Knowing when to eliminate products and services Follow Kirsten at: Website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram And SUBSCRIBE to be notified of upcoming episodes!

    20 min

  4. 12/17/2025

    141 - Are You Interested or Committed?

    Watch this episode on YouTube As we close out 2025 and step boldly into planning for 2026, Kirsten challenges you with a tough but transformational question: Are you committed to your goals, or merely interested?   Most people like the idea of achieving big things - more income, more freedom, more abundance, etc.  But liking the idea isn't enough.  In this episode, Kirsten digs into the mindset shifts, the stories we tell ourselves, and the fears we cling to that keep us from living the bigger life we imagine. Key Takeaways: The difference between interest and commitment How your backstory shapes your future (if you let it!) The excuse loop that kills dreams Why you need to rewrite your story The confidence you already have (you're overlooking it!) The power of failing on purpose Kirsten's travel story that proves the point The 60-second exercise that can change your life Turning your wish list into a commitment plan   Follow Kirsten for more tips and updates at: www.kirstenflory.com LinkedIn Instagram Facebook *And don't forget to subscibe so you'll never miss a tip that can grow your business!

    24 min

  5. 12/03/2025

    140 - Time, Risk, and Wealth: What the Rich Know that Others Don't with Mike Milligan

    Watch this episode on YouTube! In this conversation, Mike Milligan discusses the critical relationship between risk and wealth building, emphasizing that significant risks are necessary for rapid financial growth.  He highlights the importance of having a safety net when taking these risks and reflects on the value of time in the context of wealth creation, suggesting that successful individuals would trade their wealth for more time if given the chance. Key Takeaways: If you want to build wealth fast, you have to take huge risks and you have to be willing to fail. Many people who have failed and lost seven figures can rebuild their wealth. Successful individuals value time over money, willing to trade wealth for additional years of life. Taking big risks is essential for rapid wealth growth. Having a safety net is crucial when pursuing high-risk investments. Failure is part of the journey to success and wealth building. The ability to rebuild wealth is a common trait among successful entrepreneurs. Time is a non-renewable resource that wealthy individuals prioritize. Financial planning should account for both risk and safety measures. Understanding the balance between risk and reward is key to financial success. Connect with Mike at: Website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Don't forget to subscribe to The Small Business Mindset so you never miss a tip that can grow your business! Follow Kirsten Flory for more tips and updates! www.kirstenflory.com

    56 min

  6. 11/19/2025

    139 - The Energy Advantage: How to Fuel Your Life and Business Every Day

    Watch this episode on YouTube! In this energizing episode, Kirsten dives into the connection between your personal energy and your business success.  From sleep and nutrition to boundaries, community, and environment - she shares practical ways to recharge and sustain your energy so you can show up as your best self every day, both at work and at home. Key Takeaways: Energy Drive Success - your personal energy affects every area of your business - decision-making, creativity, relationships, and growth. Treat it as one of your most valuable business assets. Prioritize Restful Sleep  Create a tech-free sleep zone (no phone in the bedroom!) Use "Do Not Disturb" settings for uninterrupted rest. Build a peaceful bedtime routine: Calming scents, magnesium, cool/dark room, and consistency. Quality sleep fuels productivity, focus, and emotional balance. Schedule White Space Don't pack your calendar solid - schedule mental breaks Use commute time or shot gaps to breathe, reflect, and reset. Protect time for creativity and rest - they're essential for high performance. Manage Your Commitments Volunteerism and community service are valuable, but choose them intentionally. Say "no" with grace when your schedule or energy doesn't allow for more. Focus your giving on causes that truly align with your purpose and values. Fuel Your Body for Energy Nutrition equals energy - eat foods that sustain, not drain, you. Increase protein, fiber, and whole foods; minimize sugar and alcohol. Check in with your doctor regularly to understand what your body needs. Build an Energizing Community Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Take initiative in relationships - don't wait for connection, create it. Protect your emotional energy from draining dynamics. Design Your Environment for Flow Tidy spaces, good lighting, and organization promote calm and focus. Rearrange items seasonally to refresh energy flow. Make habits easy by designing your space around them (e.g. keep a water bottle nearby). Move Your Body Daily Movement enhances clarity, mood, and longevity. Find what fits your body now - walking, yoga, strength training, or stretching. Small, consistent movement is better than burnout-level workouts. Final Thought: Your energy is your greatest business tool.  When you nuture it - through rest and  intention, and everything in your business and life will flow more effectively. Connect with Kirsten: Website: www.kirstenflory.com Instagram LinkedIn

    27 min

  7. 11/05/2025

    138 - Building Green Goo: Family, Failure, and the Fight to Keep Going

    Watch this episode on YouTube! Every entrepreneur's journey is unique - and today's story is nothing short of remarkable.  I sit down with Jodi Scott, the founder and CEO of Green Goo, a plant-based first aid and skincare company that grew from her family's kitchen to 150,000 stores nationwide.  Jodi shared the incredible highs of building and selling her company, the heartbreak of nearly losing everything, and the grit it took to buy it back and rebuild stronger than ever.  You'll hear how a simple idea sparked at a farmers market became a multimillion-dollar business, the realities of scaling a family-run company, and the hard-earned lessons Jodi has carried through her journey as an entrepreneur.   What you'll learn in this episode: How Green Goo started as a family passion project and grew into a national brand. The behind-the-scenes reality of selling (and then buying back a company. What is takes to scale from local farmers markets to international retail shelves. The importance of resilience, adaptability, and self-care in business. Lessons Jodi wishes she had known earlier about leadership, growth, and balance Whether you're building your business from the ground up, or navigating the challenges of growth, Jodi's story is packed with inspiration and practical takeaways. Connect with Jodi Scott & Green Goo Website Instagram @greengoohelps LinkedIn @JodiScott Like this episode? Don't forget to subscribe so you'll never miss an episode!   Connect with Kirsten Flory at www.kirstenflory.com

    42 min

  8. 10/22/2025

    137 - Why the Phone Isn't Ringing & How to Fix It

    Watch this episode on You Tube HERE! Are you struggling with sales and wondering why your phone isn't ringing?  In this episode, Kirsten Flory dives into the challenges of sales outreach, why prospects may not be responding, and actionable strategies to turn things around. In this episode you'll learn: How to provide real value to prospects instead of just selling The importance of using multiple communication channels (phone, email, social media, handwritten notes, and more) Why consistency is key in outreach and follow-up How sharing success stories can boost your credibility and attract business Leveraging your referral network to uncover opportunities The power of curiosity: asking questions and understanding your clients' needs Why responsiveness sets you apart from the competition Using downtime strategically to enhance your sales process (podcasts, blogs, social media, and more) Key Takeaways: Focus on helping your prospects first - give before you ask. Mix up communication channels and stay persistent. Celebrate wins, share stories, and respond promptly. *Whether you're in real estate, sales, or any client-driven business, these strategies will help you increase engagement, build trust, and ultimately get your phone ringing again. **Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a tip that can grow your business! Follow Kirsten at: www.kirstenflory.com LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

    13 min
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About

The Small Business Mindset Podcast is a real life, in the trenches conversation about how you can make your small business run successfully. Host Kirsten Flory, Founder and CEO of Foundations Commercial Real Estate, shares her journey on how she created a successful small businesses, and how she has helped her clients do the same. The Small Business Mindset also features guests that lend their expertise in the areas of: finance, staffing, marketing, and more.

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