The Small Business School Podcast

Hosted by Staci Millard

Business EntrepreneurshipInterviews guests

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Episodes

396

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 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 opportunitiesReflection is the key to better time and energy managementIntentional decisions create freedom, not restrictionMoney becomes less stressful when you understand itYou only need a few key metrics to feel confident in your businessIgnoring finances now leads to burnout laterAs 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 growthWhy many entrepreneurs struggle without clear metrics and scorecardsThe importance of building and maintaining an A-player teamWhy team dynamics and leadership structure impact business growthThe concept of running your business like a sports teamCommon challenges female entrepreneurs face with risk and scalingHow coaching and mentorship accelerate business successWhen and why to transition team members as your company growsThe balance between data-driven decisions (“hard edge”) and leadership/culture (“soft edge”)The biggest lesson from a nine-figure exit: implement systems earlyConnect 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 strategyWhy trades often lead to misaligned expectations and strained relationshipsThe hidden cost of “free work” and why it rarely benefits your business long-termWhat to do instead of trading, including smarter financial and strategic alternativesHow to confidently decline trade offers while preserving the relationshipWhen (and how) trades can work, with the right boundaries and structureWhy clear communication and contracts are essential, even in informal agreementsConnect with Kristina:Instagram: @kristina.bartoldStaci'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 behindWhy financial setbacks can become your greatest advantage when building long-term wealthThe different ways to get started in real estate beyond the traditional “buy a home and pay it off” pathHow passive investing can help you grow wealth without adding more to your already full plateWhy putting yourself in the right rooms and conversations can completely change your financial trajectoryHow to build (and lean on) trusted relationships to invest smarter and reduce riskWhy building wealth is really about creating freedom, security, and choice in your lifeConnect with Christine:Instagram: @christine.traynor.reinvestingStaci'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 supportWhy not all lawyers are created equal (and how to choose the right one)How contracts should reflect your actual business practicesThe concept of “flawless legal onboarding”Where legal fits into every stage of business growth, from idea to exitThe real role of AI in legal (and where it falls short)Why legal and accounting should work hand-in-hand in your businessThis 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 earlyHow overcomplicating your offers, systems, or team structure impacts profitabilityThe powerful question that can transform your business decisionsHow AI can simplify operations and free up your team’s capacityWhy hiring isn’t always the solution to growthHow to audit and refine your systems for better efficiencyThe connection between simplicity, clarity, and financial freedomEase 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.

May 14, 2026Episode 38945 min

How to Get Found (and Chosen) in the Age of AI with Monique Bryan

In this episode of Small Business School, Staci sits down with personal branding expert Monique Bryan to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today’s AI-driven world. From building a powerful brand foundation to understanding how AI is reshaping visibility, Monique shares why clarity (not noise) is the true competitive advantage for small business owners right now. Together, they explore the intersection of personal branding, AI tools, and human connection, and why the businesses that win will be the ones that are deeply intentional about both.Key topics covered:Why most business owners are skipping the foundational work that drives real resultsThe power of having a clear, repeatable framework in your businessHow to use AI as a tool, not a replacement for your expertiseThe biggest mistake entrepreneurs are making with AI-generated contentHow to audit your online presence so AI can find and recommend youThe shift from traditional SEO to AI-driven discoverability (AEO/GEO)Why consistency across platforms matters more than everThe importance of documenting your systems (and what could happen if you don’t)How to balance speed and efficiency with authenticity and trustWhy community, connection, and in-person experiences are becoming your biggest advantageUse AI to support your growth but never lose the human element that makes your business truly unforgettable.Connect with Monique:Instagram: @moniquebryan_coStaci's Links:Instagram. Website.

May 12, 2026Episode 38825 min

Navigating Disappointment as a Business Owner

In this episode of Small Business School, Staci opens up in one of her most vulnerable and honest conversations yet. While we often celebrate growth and success in business, this episode explores the moments that don’t go as planned. The ones that bring up feelings of shame, disappointment, and self-doubt behind the scenes.Staci shares a deeply personal reflection on a recent season in her business that stretched her in unexpected ways, navigating the pressure of leadership, capacity challenges, and the emotional weight of not meeting her own high standards.Key topics covered:Why even experienced business owners can still face unexpected setbacksThe emotional weight of disappointment and people-pleasing in leadershipHow capacity planning can still fall short (and what to do instead)The hidden cost of the “I’ll just do it myself” mindsetWhy relationship capital is one of your greatest business assetsThe importance of communication during difficult seasonsHow to rebuild and improve systems after things go wrongThe role of nervous system regulation in navigating high-pressure seasonsThis is a powerful reminder that the hard seasons are part of the journey and that how we respond, rebuild, and move forward is what truly defines us as business owners. Staci's Links:Instagram. Website.

May 7, 2026Episode 38730 min

Should Your Business Pay For Referrals with Kristina Bartold

In this episode of Small Business School, Staci Millard is in Ottawa with Kristina Bartold and we’re diving into the real dynamics behind referrals—what works, what doesn’t, and why relationships (not transactions) are at the core of it all.From navigating affiliate commissions to handling misaligned clients, we’re unpacking the nuance of referrals in today’s business landscape. If you’ve ever struggled with asking for referrals, questioned whether to pay for them, or wanted to build a business that grows through trust, this is for you!Key topics covered:The difference between referral partners vs. affiliates - and which Kristina and Staci preferWhy trust and credibility are the foundation of consistent referralsThe pros and cons of paying for referrals or commissionsHow to stay top of mind without feeling pushy or inauthenticWhat to do when a referral doesn’t turn into a great client fitWhy gratitude and follow-up are often the most overlooked strategiesHow to think about long-term relationship ROI vs. short-term gainThe strongest referral strategies aren’t built on transactions, they’re built on trust, consistency, and the kind of relationships that make people want to champion your business without being asked. Connect with Kristina:Instagram: @kristina.bartoldStaci's Links:Instagram. Website.

April 30, 2026Episode 38650 min

Live From High Vibe Women: Building a Scalable Business with Purpose, Profit & Power with Lexi

In this episode of Small Business School, Staci Millard is live from High Vibe Women to sit down with entrepreneur Lexi Miles Corrin (founder of Wax On, a national beauty brand with 25+ locations) to unpack the real journey behind building, scaling, and exiting a business. From spotting a gap in the market to navigating rapid growth, near-bankruptcy moments, and ultimately selling her company, Lexi shares the unfiltered lessons most entrepreneurs never hear. This conversation dives deep into leadership, mindset, culture, and why every business owner should be thinking about their exit—starting now.Key topics covered:How identifying a simple gap in the market can turn into a national brandWhy customer experience is the #1 driver of business growthThe real reason most businesses struggle to scale (and how to fix it)How to build a strong, values-driven company culture that actually sticksThe importance of iteration and why your first model won’t be your final oneA simple but powerful 15-minute daily habit that can transform your businessThe truth about scaling too fast and the costly mistakes to avoidWhy every entrepreneur should plan their exit strategy earlyHow to know when you’re ready to raise capital (and when you’re not)The mindset shifts required to grow as a leader at every stageSet aside 15 minutes today and take one action you’ve been putting off whether it’s reaching out to a connection, refining your offer, or mapping your next move. Small, consistent steps create big results.Connect with Lexi:Instagram: @leximilescorrinStaci's Links:Instagram. Website.