Small Business Survival Conversations

Hosted by Anna Steinfest

Business

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Episodes

224

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Small Business Survival Conversations is the weekly podcast designed to empower entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and small business owners who are fighting every day to build, grow, and sustain their businesses in a noisy and unpredictable world. Hosted by Anna Steinfest , business strategist, entrepreneur, and founder with decades of experience helping small businesses thrive, this show delivers practical wisdom , mindset fuel , and real-world strategies that small business owners can actually use. What to Expect Every Week Monday Morning Motivation Kickstart your week with a powerful story—drawn from timeless fables, real business lessons, or classic wisdom—paired with three actionable steps you can apply immediately. Each episode is crafted to help you regain focus, protect your momentum, and make better decisions as a small business owner. These episodes are short, energizing, and packed with practical insight. Think of it as your weekly dose of clarity, courage, and direction. Occasional Expert Interviews Throughout the season, Anna welcomes entrepreneurs, industry experts, and community leaders who share their experiences, failures, wins, and lessons learned. Whether you’re looking to scale, pivot, or simply survive another day of running a business, these conversations offer the guidance and encouragement you need. Who This Podcast Is For This show is built for: • Small business owners • Solopreneurs • Startup founders • Women-owned businesses • Community-based and service-based entrepreneurs • Anyone navigating growth with limited time, resources, and support If you’re building a business from the ground up—and learning as you go—you’re in the right place. Why Listeners Love This Podcast • Practical, real-world strategies (no fluff) • Story-driven insights that stick • Weekly motivation designed specifically for small business owners • Action steps in every episode • Honest conversations about what it really takes to survive and grow • Encouragement without sugarcoating Running a small business is not easy — but you don’t have to do it alone. Subscribe now and start your week with inspiration, direction, and the tools to keep moving forward. Small Business Survival Conversations Your journey. Your grit. Your growth.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 15, 2026Episode 9311 min

S3E93: Burn the boats: the Sun Tzu strategy every entrepreneur needs to hear

Send us Fan MailYouTube descriptionBurn the boats: the Sun Tzu strategy every entrepreneur needs to hearIn 1519, Hernán Cortés ordered his own ships destroyed on the shores of Mexico — removing any possibility of retreat for his men. Centuries earlier, Sun Tzu described a similar moment: a leader who climbs to a height, then kicks away the ladder behind him.In this episode, Anna Steinfest unpacks what that ancient idea means for small business owners today — and why "someday" plans, backup options, and safety nets might be the very things holding your business back.You'll learn the difference between a goal and a decision, why commitment sharpens focus and creativity, and how to identify the "ladder" you're still holding onto in your own business.If you've been waiting to feel "ready" before taking the next step — this episode is your sign.In this episode:00:00Welcome and the Sun Tzu quote01:30The story of Cortés burning the boats03:00The boats we keep in business — and why05:00The cost of keeping the ladder07:00The hidden power of full commitment08:30The Business Warrior challenge10:00Closing reflectionAbout Small Business Survival ConversationsHosted by Anna Steinfest, this podcast brings weekly motivation, mindset shifts, and practical guidance to small business owners who refuse to quit. New episodes every Monday morning to help you start your week with focus and purpose.Connect with Anna:https://www.survivebizhub.org/

June 8, 2026Episode 9212 min

S3E92: Why Small Business Owners Quit — and the 2,000-year-old Secret to Pushing Through

Send us Fan MailWhy do so many small business owners quit—not because they lack talent, passion, or vision, but because the mountain in front of them feels too big to climb?In this inspiring Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest explores a powerful 2,000-year-old lesson from Confucius:“The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.”Through a timeless story about perseverance, determination, and the power of small daily actions, you'll discover why success isn't built through giant leaps but through consistent progress over time.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your goals, frustrated by slow growth, or tempted to give up because results aren't coming fast enough, this episode is for you.You'll learn: ✅ Why most business owners quit too soon ✅ The hidden danger of focusing only on the mountain ✅ How small, consistent actions create extraordinary results ✅ Why comparing your journey to others can hold you back ✅ One simple action you can take this week to build momentumRemember: The most successful entrepreneurs aren't always the smartest or the most connected—they're the ones who keep moving one stone at a time. Tune in and discover the ancient wisdom that can help you push through today's challenges and build tomorrow's success.#SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMorningMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessOwner #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess #MotivationMonday #GrowthMindset #Resilience #SmallBusiness #BusinessStrategy #SuccessHabits #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessCoach #Podcast #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations #Perseverance #KeepGoing #Confucius #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessMotivation #MindsetMatters

June 1, 202617 min

S3E91The 3 Principles Behind Every Successful Business

Send us Fan MailWhat separates businesses that survive from those that truly grow?In this powerful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest sits down with executive coach and leadership expert Ken Dombrowski to discuss the three core principles behind every successful business.Together, they break down:Why mentorship can accelerate business growthThe importance of follow-through and executionWhy evaluating your business honestly is critical for long-term successThe difference between ideas and actionCommon mistakes entrepreneurs make when trying to growHow successful business owners adapt, learn, and improve over timeThis episode is packed with practical advice, leadership insights, and real-world business wisdom for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.If you’re a small business owner looking to grow stronger, lead better, and build a more sustainable business, this conversation is for you.Featuring Ken DombrowskiFounder & Executive Coach at Your Executive Life Coachinghttps://www.yourexecutivelifecoaching.com/If you enjoyed this episode, share it with another entrepreneur who could benefit from these lessons.#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Mentorship #BusinessCoach #Execution #SmallBusinessOwner #SuccessMindset #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations

May 25, 2026Episode 9021 min

S3E90: Confidence Is Killing More Businesses Than Competition

Send us Fan MailMost businesses don’t fail because of competition.They fail because business owners lose confidence in themselves before they ever reach their full potential.In this powerful episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest sits down with leadership coach and business strategist Ken Dombrowski from Your Executive Life Coaching to discuss one of the biggest hidden struggles entrepreneurs face: confidence.Together, they dive into:Why so many talented women in business still doubt themselvesHow fear and self-doubt quietly hold businesses backThe connection between confidence and leadershipImposter syndrome and the pressure of entrepreneurshipWhy action creates confidence — not the other way aroundPractical ways business owners can rebuild confidence and growThis is an honest, real conversation for entrepreneurs who sometimes feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure of themselves — even when they’re capable of incredible success.Learn more about Ken Dombrowski and Your Executive Life Coaching:https://www.yourexecutivelifecoaching.com/If this episode resonates with you, share it with another entrepreneur who needs this reminder today.#SmallBusiness #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #Confidence #BusinessGrowth #Mindset #WomenEntrepreneurs #SmallBusinessOwner #Motivation #BusinessPodcast #SelfConfidence #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations

May 18, 2026Episode 8918 min

S3E89: Stop Hustling Long Enough to Hear This — Rest, Don't Quit

Send us Fan MailFeeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or burned out trying to grow your business? In this powerful Monday Morning Motivation episode, Anna Steinfest shares an important reminder for entrepreneurs and small business owners: resting is not quitting.We live in a world that glorifies nonstop hustle, constant grinding, and pushing harder every day — but what happens when exhaustion starts stealing your creativity, energy, health, and peace?This episode is for every entrepreneur who feels tired, discouraged, emotionally drained, or ready to give up. Through real talk, encouragement, and powerful storytelling, Anna shares why learning to rest may be one of the most strategic things you can do for your business and your life.Because sometimes the strongest thing you can do is pause… without quitting.🎙 Hosted by Anna Steinfest Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast#MondayMotivation #Entrepreneur #SmallBusiness #Burnout #BusinessMotivation #EntrepreneurLife #Leadership #SmallBusinessOwner #Mindset #Podcast #WomenInBusiness #MentalHealth #Motivation #BusinessGrowth #HustleCulture

May 11, 2026Episode 8823 min

S3E88: Outnumbered, Outspent & Still Standing: The Spartan Strategy Every Small Business Needs

Send us Fan MailMost small business owners feel like they are fighting impossible battles.Outnumbered.Outspent.Overwhelmed.But what if the answer is not competing everywhere?What if the answer is protecting the one place where your business is strongest?In this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest shares the powerful story of King Leonidas and the 300 Spartans at Thermopylae — and the surprising business lessons every entrepreneur needs to hear.This is not just a story about war.It is a story about leadership, discipline, positioning, resilience, sacrifice, and surviving when the odds are against you.If you are a business owner trying to stay focused during difficult seasons, this episode will remind you why small businesses still win.Because small businesses do not win by being bigger.They win by being smarter, faster, more human, and deeply connected to the people they serve.One powerful reminder from this episode:“You were not built for the open field. You were built for the pass.”#SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMorningMotivation #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessOwner #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #MotivationMonday #BusinessStrategy #Resilience #Mindset #SmallBusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessCoach #Podcast #SmallBusinessSurvivalConversations #GrowthMindset #Discipline #StartupLife #EntrepreneurLife

May 4, 2026Episode 878 min

S3E87: Why Being Behind Might Be Your Biggest Advantage in Business

Send us Fan MailAre you feeling behind in your business?In this powerful Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we break down a historic moment from the Kentucky Derby—where Cherie DeVaux led Golden Tempo from last place to victory—and what it teaches every small business owner about timing, persistence, and winning when it matters most.This episode is for entrepreneurs who: Feel like competitors are ahead Struggle with slow growth Are questioning their progress You’ll learn why success in business isn’t about starting fast—it’s about making the right move at the right time.💡 What you’ll walk away with: The “Final Stretch” mindset for business growth How to stop comparing and start preparing One simple action step to move your business forward this week 👉 Remember: You’re not behind. You’re just not at your moment yet.🎧 Tune in, take action, and start your week with clarity and confidence.

April 27, 2026Episode 8611 min

S3E86: Play Your Hand — The Monday Message Every Small Business Owner Needs

Send us Fan Mail You are not behind. You are not broken. You are playing a different hand. This episode is a straight-talking, honest conversation about comparison, fairness, and what it actually takes to build something real when the odds aren't in your favor. One action step at the end that you can do before Friday.

April 20, 20269 min

S3E85: Unlock Growth: The 5 Whys Method Every Small Business Owner Needs

Send us Fan Mail Start your week with clarity and intention in this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations. Host Anna Steinfest breaks down the powerful “5 Whys Method,” originally developed by Toyota founder Sakichi Toyoda, and shows small business owners how to uncover the real root causes behind stalled growth, inconsistent marketing, and feeling stuck. If you're a solopreneur or wearing all the hats in your business, this episode will help you move beyond surface-level problems and take control with a simple, actionable framework. Tune in to shift your mindset, gain clarity, and build a stronger, more sustainable business. #SmallBusinessTips #EntrepreneurMindset #SolopreneurLife #BusinessGrowth #MondayMotivation #StartupLife #5Whys #LeadershipDevelopment #ProductivityHacks #MindsetShift #BusinessStrategy #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #MarketingStrategy #FounderLife

April 13, 2026Episode 847 min

S3E84: The Truth About Slow Business Growth (Most People Quit Here)

Send us Fan MailNothing Is Working? Think Again. | Monday Morning MotivationIn this Monday Morning Motivation episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, we explore the powerful story of the bamboo tree—a simple but life-changing reminder that real growth often happens beneath the surface.If your business feels stuck, slow, or like nothing is working… this episode is for you.Because what if the truth is… 👉 your business is growing—you just can’t see it yet?In this episode, you’ll learn: Why slow progress is often the most important progress What’s really happening when your business feels stuck How to stay consistent when results aren’t visible The key mindset shift that separates those who succeed from those who quit ✨ Your action step: Identify one area of your business where you feel stuck and focus on strengthening the “roots” (your systems, relationships, or consistency) with one small action this week.