The Small Business Mindset

Hosted by Kirsten Flory

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

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.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

September 9, 20269 min

158 - Redefining Success Beyond the Bottom Line

Watch this episode on YouTube ! What if we've been measuring success all wrong? In this episode, Kirsten challenges the traditional definition of success and asks a powerful question: Is success really about how much money we make? As business owners and professionals, it's easy to measure our accomplishments through revenue, sales, income, growth and other financial metrics. But what happens when we expand our definition of success to include the things that make life meaningful - relationships, health, experiences, time, creativity and simply being present. Key Takeaways: Success isn't one number Your revenue, income, sales, and net worth can certainly be measures of success, but they don't have to be the only ones. Consider creating your own definition of success. What does success look like for your health, relationships, family, experiences, time, personal growth, and financial life? Then start noticing the small wins every day. Because sometimes the life you've been working so hard to build is already the success you've been looking for. Connect with Kirsten , and don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you won't miss an episode! LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

August 26, 202646 min

157 - Stop Doing Everything: How to Build a Business That Works Without You

Watch this episode on YouTube ! What is your business could grow without requiring more of your time, more of your energy, and more of your weekends? In this episode, Kirsten sits down with Abbey Brown of Stone Strategies to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing entrepreneurs: learning how to move from being the person who does everything to becoming the leader who builds the systems, team and culture that allow the business to thrive. Abbey knows this journey firsthand. Growing up in a third-generation family business, working in corporate America, and eventually purchasing and building The Brownstone wedding and event venue, she has experienced entrepreneurship from multiple perspectives. Today, The Brownstone hosts approximately 150 events per year with a team of about 30 people - and Abbey has built systems that allow the business to operate successfully without requiring her to be there for every event. That experience ultimately led her to create Stone Strategies, an operations company that helps small businesses build systems, processes and technology that make their businesses more efficient and scalable. In this episode, Abbey and Kirsten discuss: Building a business that doesn't depend on the owner Why delegation is so difficult for entrepreneurs Create a playbook for your business Turn your employees into owners of outcomes Why every employee should have a revenue-producing responsibility How to retain great employees Creating a cadence of success Defining what "winning" actually means Automation, AI and getting time back The power of Masterminds Connect with Kirsten Flory: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you won't miss an episode!

August 12, 202643 min

156 - Who Should Own the Wealth your business Creates?

Watch this episode on YouTube ! What if selling your business didn't mean selling its future? For many entrepreneurs, the traditional exit strategy is to sell to a competitor, private equity or another outside investor. But what if the people who helped build your company could become its owners? In this episode of The Small Business Mindset , I sit down with Michael Brownrigg with Apis & Heritag e and Moriah Dean with Calvert Impac t to umpack the world of employee ownership. We talk about ESOP's, worker-owned cooperatives, employee owned trusts, succession planning, rural communities, employee retention, and perhaps most importantly, legacy. Because eventually, every business owner has to answer one question: What happens to the business when you're the one no longer running it? and maybe the better question is: Who should benefit from the wealth you've created? This conversation may change the way you think about your exit strategy. Connect with Kirsten at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

July 15, 202614 min

155 - The Smart Way to Use AI in Your business

Watch this episode on YouTube ! Artificial Intelligence isn't here to replace great business owners - it's here to make them better! In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory shares a practical approach to using AI to create a better customer experience while keeping the human connection at the center of your business. Instead of fearing automation, learn how to leverage AI to save time, improve communication, build stronger customer relationships, and ultimately increase sales. The businesses that win won't be the ones using the most AI. They'll be the ones using AI to create more meaningful interactions. In this episode you'll learn: Why AI should enhance, not replace, the customer experience How first impressions online determine whether customers choose you The importance of acknowledging customers immediately Why collecting your own customer data is more valuable than social media followers How AI can automate lead generation and customer communication Creating a sales funnel that nurtures prospects without addint more work The importance of fast, reliable follow-up Why integrity matters in every customer interaction How to use customer feedback to improve your sales process The one thing AI can never replace: your personal story and passion Why authenticity is still your greatest competitive advantage Key Takeaways: AI is a tool - not a strategy The best use of AI is creating systems that: 1) welcome new customers 2) capture valuable customer information 3) automate repetitive tasks 4) speed up communication 5) give business owners more time to build genuine relationships Technology can start the conversation, but people close the sale Customers buy from businesses they trust, and trust is built through authenticity, consistency, and follow through Action Steps: This week, audit your customer journey by asking yourself: How quickly do I acknowledge new leads? Am I collecting customer data that I actually own? Is my follow-up process timely and consistent? Does my online messaging match the experience customers receive when they talk to me? Where can AI save me time so I can spend more time building relationships? Choose one area to automate this week while keeping your psersonal touch front and center. Connect with Kirsten Flory Instagram Facebook LinkedIn If this episode inspired you, SUBSCRIBE to The Small Business Mindset and share it with another entrepreneur looking to grow smarter - not just harder. We'd love to hear from you!

June 17, 202653 min

153 - What Young Entrepreneurs Get Right - and Wrong

Watch this episode on YouTube ! In this episode, Kirsten Flory sits down with Ryan Rains , Director of Entrepreneurship Programs at the University of Kansas School of Business and a member of the Foundations Commercial Real Estate team, for a thought-provoking discussion about entrepreneurship, side hustles, career development and what success actually looks like. Together, they explore why entrepreneurship has become such a powerful cultural movement, particularly among younger generations seeking greater control over their careers, income, and futures. They discuss the rise of side hustles, the influence of social media, the realities behind "overnight success," and the importance of building meaningful relationships and networks over time. Ryan shares insights from working directly with aspiring entrepreneurs and explains why passion alone isn't enough to build a successful business. The conversation dives into the importance of solving real market problems, staying adaptable, and being willing to pivot when necessary. Kirsten and Ryan also discuss: Why the marketplace - not passion alone - determines business viability The role of networking, mentorship, and relationship building Common misconceptions about entrepreneurship and wealth How social media can distort perceptions of success Why defining your personal "why" matters more than chasing money The value of diverse career experiences and transferable skills How volunteer work and community involvement can accelerate professional growth The opportunities AI may create for the next generation of business leaders Why curiosity may be one of the most valuable entrepreneurial traits of all Whether you're launching a side hustle, growing a business, or simply exploring what's next in your career, this conversation offers practical insights and plenty of food for thought. Connect with Kirsten Flory : Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you never miss an episode!

June 3, 202621 min

152 - From the Trunk of a Car to a Global Brand

Watch this episode on YouTube ! In this episode, Kirsten Flory dives into the incredible entrepreneurial journey behind Nike through the bestselling memoir Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. Most people see Nike as a global powerhouse, but few realize the company spent nearly 18 years fighting for survival before becoming a household name. Kirsten unpacks the lessons small business owners can learn from Phil Knight's relentless perseverance, willingness to take risks, and ability to stay committed to a vision even while living on the edge of financial ruin. From selling track shoes out of the trunk of a car to building one of the most recognizable brands in the world, this episode explores: Why passion matters more than immediate success The importance of mentors and challengers in your life How surrounding yourself with the right people can shape your future Why niche focus can actually accelerate growth The risks and rewards of entrepreneurship What is means to "live on the float" while building a business How innovation and customer feedback drive long-term success Why questioning and challenging ideas inside your company is healthy The power of branding, partnerships, and culture Kirsten also reflects on how entrepreneurs often face skepticism from family, friends, and society while pursuing unconventional dreams - and why persistence is often the difference between failure and breakthrough success. If you've ever wondered whether your hard work is worth it, this episode is a reminder that some of the greatest success stories took years - sometimes decades, to become reality Key Takeaways: Nike was not an overnight success - it took 18 years to break through Staying focused on a niche can create momentum before expansion Entrepreneurs need people around them who challenge their thinking Innovation often comes from listening closely to customer feedback Passion and perseverance are critical during difficult seasons of business Building a strong culture matters just as much as building revenue Connect with Kirsten Flory at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

May 20, 202659 min

151 - Talk to People: The Skill That Changes Everything in Business Ft. Chris Miller

Watch this episode on YouTube ! In this episode, Kirsten Flory sits down with communication expert and podcast host Chris Miller to break down one of the most overlooked - yet critical - business skills: communication. Chris, host of Talk to Chris Miller and Talk to People Podcast, shares practical insights on how communication impacts leadership, sales, relationships, and everyday interactions. From avoiding common communication mistakes to mastering meaningful conversations, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone looking to level up how they connect wiht others. Key Takeaways: The #1 Communication Mistake: Most people focus on themselves instead of their audience Clarity Over Complexity: Avoid the "curse of knowledge" - don't assume people understand what you do. Better Conversations Start with Better Questions: Don't be a "ZQ" (zero questions). Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions. Small is Powerful: It's not meaningless - it's the gateway to deeper, more meaningful conversations. Persuasion Framework for Business Owners: Build credibility, use logic, connect through emotion Conflict = Opportunity: Great communicators move past positions and uncover underlying interests. Why People Stay Quiet in Groups: Fear of being awkward, wrong, or judged holds people back. Communication is a Skill (Not Just Talent): It can absolutely be learned, practiced, and improved. Practical Tips You can Apply Today Ask one more question in every conversation Slow down your speech - clarify beats speed Use bullet points instead of scripts when presenting Practice conversations in low-stakes environments Make eye contact and engage - even in everyday moments Don't avoid hard conversations - lean into them Connect with Kirsten Flory LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Connect with Chris Miller YouTube: Talk to Chris Miller Podcast: Talk to People Podcast Instagram:

May 6, 202613 min

150 - The #1 Mistake New Entrepreneurs Make (And How to Avoid it)

Watch this episode on YouTube ! In this episode of The Small Business Mindset, Kirsten Flory challenges one of the most common myths in entrepreneurship: that you need money to start a business. Spoiler alert - you don't. What you do need is something far more valuable (and completely free): proof of concept. Kirsten dives into why so many aspiring business owners skip this critical step and how it can make or break your success before you ever spend a dollar. She shared personal insights from building her commercial real estate brokerage, explaining how starting lean - and resisting the urge to overspend - allowed her business to grow strategically. You'll also hear a candid (and slightly humorous) story about a business idea that didn't pass the test, and why that failure was actually a win. This episode will help you: Understand what proof of concept really means Avoid the trap of relying on friends and family for validation Learn how to gather honest, actionable feedback Identify your true target customer Test your idea without wasting time or money Separate "people like it" from "people will pay for it" If you're thinking about starting a business, or pivoting your current one, this episode will give you a practical, no-cost roadmap to validate your idea before investing in it. Connect with Kirsten Flory at: Instagram LinkedIn Facebook

April 22, 202614 min

149 - Are You Accidentally Killing Your Business?

Watch this episode on YouTube ! In this episode, Kirsten Flory dives into the hard truth that many businesses don't survive - and more importantly, why. While external factors can play a role, most business failures come down to three key areas: cash flow, market demand, and management. The good news? Two of those are fully within your control. Kirsten shares real-world insights on how poor financial decisions, lack of planning, and ignoring market shifts can quietly put your business at risk. She also offers practical strategies to help you stay ahead, maintain control, and build a resilient business that can weather uncertainty. If you want to avoid becoming part of the failure statistics, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. Key Takeaways: Cash Flow is King: without consistent cash flow, even profitable businesses can fail. Don't Overspend Early: Focus on function over aesthetics when launching or growing your business Every Expense Matters: Even small costs (like "ketchup-level" decisions) can impact profitability. Market Demand Shifts - Pay Attention: your customers, products, and delivery methods must evolve over time. Your Business Plan Isn't Static: Revisit and adjust it regularly - don't let it collect dust. Management Matters: Organization, financial visibility, and leadership are critical to survival. Track Everything: Know Your Numbers - cash in, cash out, pipeline, and projections. Prepare for the Worst: Scenario planning helps you pivot before it's too late. Act Early: The sooner you address challenges, the more options you have. Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss an episode! Follow Kirsten Flory at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn

April 8, 202619 min

148 - Don't Let Your Business Become the Next Penny

Watch this episode on YouTube While it may seem insigificant, the story of the penny reveals a crucial lesson for business owners. Originally valueable and practical, the penny ultimately became obsolete - costing more to produce than it was worth. Sound familiar? Kirsten draws a direct parallel to what happens in many small businesses: strong sales, growing revenue, and busy operations...but little to no profit. She breaks down why this happens and what to do about it. Key Takeaways: Revenue doesn't always equal profit - just because your sales look strong, doesn't mean your business is healthy. If your cost of goods or services outweighs your pricing, you're operating at a loss - just like the penny! Question "The way it's always been done" - innovation happens when you challenge assumptions. Kirsten shares an example from Tesla, where rethinking production methods dramatically reduced costs without sacrificing quality. Understand Your True Costs - from materials and labor to software subscriptions and marketing spend, every cost matters. If you're not tracking them closely, it can quietly erode your margains. Be willing to adapt and pivot - holding onto a product or service just because it defines your brand can hold you back. If it's not profitable, it may be time to evolve. Develop an owners skillset- As an owner you must: Be curious and ask questions Get comfortable with risk Wear multiple hats when needed Balance strategic thinking with execution Know where your sales come from - analyze your past year: Are your customers repeat, referral or new (and how did they hear about you)? Which offerings are most profitable (not just popular)? Where should you double down, or pull back? Focus on profit, not just growth - the goal isn't just to sell more, it's to keep more. Adjust pricing, packaging, or delivery methods to improve margains. Connect with Kirsten at: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn And don't forget to Subscribe so you won't miss an episode!