The Small Business School Podcast

Hosted by Staci Millard

Business EntrepreneurshipInterviews guests

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Episodes

400

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Ready to leave the small business struggle behind? The “School for Small Business” podcast supports small business owners in scaling a business that is profitable, purposeful, and doesn’t leave you burnt out. No matter whether you run your business online or you own a brick-and-mortar, you can expect our world class experts to support you with mindset, tactics, and everything in between so you can have the business you dreamed of. Based on our lived experience, we know that small business CAN be easy and we are here to show you how.The “School for Small Business” is hosted by Staci Millard, a CPA by trade with over 15 years of experience seeing the behind the scenes of thousands of small businesses. After growing and selling her first 7 figure business, Staci has been on the ground running - mentoring small businesses and working to increase success rates. Staci strongly believes you don’t need to have gone to business school to be successful so you can expect nothing but simple, impactful advice. Tune in each Tuesday for a new 30 minute or less episode of nothing but valuable advice to help you grow your small business. We are so excited for you to be on this journey with us!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 30, 2026Episode 3998 min

Episode 399 & Beyond: The Future of Small Business School

In this reflective solo episode of Small Business School , host Staci Millard shares a major milestone, episode 399, and announces a thoughtful pause and evolution for the podcast. As she steps into building new software alongside her accounting firm, Staci opens up about the importance of reinvention, intentionality, and allowing space for growth. She also shares what listeners can expect moving forward, including a shift in publishing cadence, more intentional guest curation, and a renewed focus on high-impact, strategic content. Key topics covered: Reaching 399 episodes of Small Business School The evolution of entrepreneurship over time and “delusional optimism” when starting something new Staci’s new venture: building software alongside her accounting firm Lessons from building multiple businesses from scratch The importance of evolving business models as you grow Why intentionality matters more as your workload and impact increase The decision to pause new podcast episodes for the summer Using the summer to focus on software development and long-term business strategy Reviewing and refining what’s worked (and what hasn’t) in podcast formats Staci is looking forward to celebrating episode 400 and beyond as a major milestone and turning point this Fall! Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

June 25, 2026Episode 39835 min

Building a Business That Can Be Sold with Ola Adeyemi

In this episode of Small Business School , host Staci Millard sits down with business coach Ola Adeyemi to unpack what it really takes to build a business that is not only profitable, but also sellable. Fresh off her experience exiting a print and embroidery business in the UK, Ola shares the hard-won lessons that reshaped how she now coaches entrepreneurs through growth, leadership, and systems. Key topics covered: Ola’s entrepreneurial journey: from running a clothing line to scaling and exiting a print & embroidery business in the UK The reality of business exits (and why most founders aren’t prepared for them) Why “building a business to sell” changes everything The difference between hiring for growth vs hiring for gaps Using a skills matrix to restructure and right-size a team Why smaller, more aligned teams often outperform larger ones Letting go of tasks you’re “good at but don’t enjoy” The importance of DISC profiling in team performance The financial blind spots most entrepreneurs miss before exit Why knowing your numbers weekly can transform decision-making The “Five Ways” framework: leads, conversion, frequency, average spend, and profit margin How systems create freedom, scalability, and business value Building a business that supports the life you actually want From hiring missteps to financial blind spots and the emotional reality of exiting a founder-led business, this conversation challenges entrepreneurs to rethink how they build from day one. Connect with Ola: Instagram: @ola_bisi_adeyemi Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

June 23, 2026Episode 39728 min

Navigating Entrepreneurial Startup Support with Isabel Nolan from Startup Canada

In this episode of Small Business School , Staci Millard sits down with Isabel Nolan from Startup Canada to unpack the incredible (and often overlooked) ecosystem of support available to entrepreneurs across Canada. From free programming and funding opportunities to the power of networking and mindset, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone starting or growing a business. Key topics covered: The role of Startup Canada in supporting entrepreneurs nationwide Free programs, pitch competitions, and funding opportunities available Why networking is more powerful than most entrepreneurs realize The mindset traits that lead to success (and what holds people back) The importance of confidence, market research, and asking for help Common mistakes entrepreneurs make when scaling too quickly Misconceptions around funding, grants, and investment Success in business isn’t about having everything figured out—it’s about taking action, asking for help, and surrounding yourself with the right resources and people along the way. Connect with Isabel: Instagram: @startupcanada Website: https://www.startupcan.ca/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabelnolan/ Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

June 18, 2026Episode 39645 min

Building Relationships That Last In Entrepreneurship with Kristina Bartold

In this joint episode of Small Business School and Community , Staci Millard and Kristina Bartold, Co-Founder of The Social Snippet and High Vibe Women dive into one of the most powerful (and often misunderstood) parts of entrepreneurship: building meaningful relationships and a strong professional network. Staci and Kristina reflect on their real-life experiences growing referral-based businesses, navigating in-person and online networking, and learning how to build connections that are rooted in authenticity, not pressure. Together, they unpack what it really means to approach networking from a place of service, how to avoid “taker energy,” and why the strongest business growth often comes from the relationships you nurture over time. Key topics covered: Why relationships are more powerful than traditional marketing for long-term business growth The difference between building relationships online vs. in-person networking Shifting from “what can I get?” to a service-first mindset when entering a room Recognizing “taker energy” vs. “giver energy” in networking situations How to approach events when you’re feeling nervous, introverted, or out of your comfort zone The importance of follow-up and how to do it in a way that feels natural, not transactional How to create value for others first and why that often leads to unexpected opportunities Navigating boundaries in relationships as your business grows Letting go of perfection in networking and focusing on consistency over time Building a strong network isn’t about collecting contacts, it’s about showing up with intention, leading with service, and trusting that the right relationships will grow your business in ways you can’t always plan for. Connect with Kristina: Instagram: @kristina.bartold Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

June 16, 2026Episode 39514 min

Summer Reflections & Business Shifts

In this solo episode of Small Business School , Staci Millard shares three powerful reflections as we head into summer 2026. From stepping into your power to getting intentional with time and money, this episode is a grounded yet energizing reminder of what actually moves the needle in business and life. Key topics covered: Stop waiting for permission—create your own opportunities Reflection is the key to better time and energy management Intentional decisions create freedom, not restriction Money becomes less stressful when you understand it You only need a few key metrics to feel confident in your business Ignoring finances now leads to burnout later As you head into summer, remember: step into your power, be intentional with your time, and build confidence with the numbers that truly matter because that’s where real freedom in your business begins. Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

June 11, 2026Episode 39445 min

Systems, Scaling & Building an A-Player Team with Catherine Dahl

In this episode of Small Business School , Staci Millard sits down with entrepreneur and coach Catherine Dahl to unpack what it truly takes to scale a business successfully. From her early days in hospitality management to leading a tech company through a nine-figure exit, Catherine shares the systems, strategies, and leadership insights that transformed her approach to business. This conversation dives into the power of KPIs, the importance of hiring A-players, and why systems (not hustle) are the key to sustainable growth. Key topics covered: How to identify and implement the right KPIs for growth Why many entrepreneurs struggle without clear metrics and scorecards The importance of building and maintaining an A-player team Why team dynamics and leadership structure impact business growth The concept of running your business like a sports team Common challenges female entrepreneurs face with risk and scaling How coaching and mentorship accelerate business success When and why to transition team members as your company grows The balance between data-driven decisions (“hard edge”) and leadership/culture (“soft edge”) The biggest lesson from a nine-figure exit: implement systems early Connect with Catherine: Website: https://www.athena.coach/ Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

June 4, 2026Episode 39324 min

Why Trades Hurt Business Relationships And What Entrepreneurs Should Do Instead with Kristina Bartold

In this episode of Small Business School , Staci sits down with Kristina Bartold, Co-founder of The Social Snippet and High Vibe Women to dive into a topic that many entrepreneurs have experienced but few talk about openly: trades in business. From early-stage “girl math” decisions to messy partnerships that strained relationships, they share real-life stories, lessons learned, and practical advice on when to avoid trades altogether and what to do instead. Key topics covered: How to recognize when a trade is coming from scarcity rather than strategy Why trades often lead to misaligned expectations and strained relationships The hidden cost of “free work” and why it rarely benefits your business long-term What to do instead of trading, including smarter financial and strategic alternatives How to confidently decline trade offers while preserving the relationship When (and how) trades can work, with the right boundaries and structure Why clear communication and contracts are essential, even in informal agreements Connect with Kristina: Instagram: @kristina.bartold Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

May 28, 2026Episode 39232 min

Real Talk on Real Estate & Financial Freedom with Christine Traynor

In this episode of Small Business School , Staci sits down with Christine Traynor to unpack a powerful and honest journey. She shares her journey from being on the verge of bankruptcy to becoming a leader in real estate investing and commercial lending. Christine shares the truth about financial setbacks, the shame that can come with them, and how she rebuilt, not just financially, but with purpose. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who feels like building wealth is out of reach, especially women navigating entrepreneurship, family, and big financial decisions. Key topics covered: How to shift your financial reality even if you’re starting from a place that feels overwhelming or behind Why financial setbacks can become your greatest advantage when building long-term wealth The different ways to get started in real estate beyond the traditional “buy a home and pay it off” path How passive investing can help you grow wealth without adding more to your already full plate Why putting yourself in the right rooms and conversations can completely change your financial trajectory How to build (and lean on) trusted relationships to invest smarter and reduce risk Why building wealth is really about creating freedom, security, and choice in your life Connect with Christine: Instagram: @christine.traynor.reinvesting Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

May 21, 2026Episode 39138 min

Building a Legally Strong Business with Elena Favaro Viana

In this episode of Small Business School , Staci sits down with small business corporate lawyer Elena Favaro Viana to unpack the massive gap in how entrepreneurs understand and use legal support. From choosing the right lawyer to building proactive systems, Elena shares how legal strategy should be deeply integrated into your business and not just something you think about when things go wrong. Together, they explore how contracts, boundaries, and advisory relationships can protect your business, increase profitability, and ultimately create more ease. Key topics covered: The difference between reactive vs. proactive legal support Why not all lawyers are created equal (and how to choose the right one) How contracts should reflect your actual business practices The concept of “flawless legal onboarding” Where legal fits into every stage of business growth, from idea to exit The real role of AI in legal (and where it falls short) Why legal and accounting should work hand-in-hand in your business This episode is a powerful reminder that legal isn’t just protection, it’s strategy. When done right, it creates clarity, confidence, and capacity for growth. Connect with Elena: Instagram: @efvlegal @elenafavaroviana Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .

May 19, 2026Episode 39015 min

How to Add Revenue Without Adding Complexity

In this episode of Small Business School, Staci shares a candid reflection after a few days away from her business and uncovering a powerful truth that many entrepreneurs overlook: we are overcomplicating our businesses. From overbuilt offers to bloated teams and inefficient systems, Staci breaks down how complexity quietly creeps into our businesses and what it’s really costing us. This episode is your reminder that more effort, more offers, and more people aren’t always the answer. Sometimes, the real growth comes from simplifying. Key topics covered: Why business complexity increases as you grow—and how to catch it early How overcomplicating your offers, systems, or team structure impacts profitability The powerful question that can transform your business decisions How AI can simplify operations and free up your team’s capacity Why hiring isn’t always the solution to growth How to audit and refine your systems for better efficiency The connection between simplicity, clarity, and financial freedom Ease is not a luxury in business, it’s a strategy. When you step back, reflect, and simplify, you create space for better client experiences, stronger profitability, and a business that actually feels good to run. Staci's Links: Instagram . Website .