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Amid the chaos of current tariff policies, international law expert John Tulac provides crucial insights on how small businesses can navigate trade uncertainty and supply chain challenges. His straightforward analysis cuts through political noise to offer practical strategies for survival in a rapidly changing global trade landscape.

• Current tariff policies have created "pure chaos" in global trade, making risk assessment nearly impossible for businesses
• Small businesses face disproportionate harm from high tariffs as they lack the financial cushion of larger corporations
• "Pivoting" supply chains away from heavily tariffed regions requires substantial capital that many small businesses cannot access
• Trade deficits aren't inherently negative—they reflect America's economic strength and purchasing power
• Case studies show various industries facing unique challenges, from cosmetics to specialized audio equipment
• Regular supply chain reviews and resilience testing are essential for business survival
• Businesses should negotiate with suppliers to share the burden of increased costs
• Contract reviews and proper product classification for tariff purposes can prevent costly mistakes
• Developing backup plans for supply chain disruptions is crucial in today's uncertain environment

Hunker down, don't panic, and don't do something you will regret later. Try to figure out how to ride this out in the short term. Don't be afraid to negotiate with your suppliers and say we're both getting hurt. We've got to share some of the hurt.

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The digital landscape has transformed dramatically, and with it the threats facing your business. In this eye-opening conversation with IT security veteran Ryan Kincer, we uncover the harsh reality that small businesses aren't just vulnerable to cyber attacks—they're the primary targets.

Ryan pulls back the curtain on the modern cybercriminal: no longer limited to physical break-ins, today's digital thieves operate remotely in their sweatpants, purchasing criminal software from the dark web to cast wide nets for vulnerable businesses. The statistics are sobering—over 60% of cyber attacks target small businesses, and of those attacked, more than 60% close their doors within a year.

We explore practical, budget-conscious security measures every business should implement, from multi-factor authentication to regular software updates and comprehensive staff training. Ryan shares a particularly chilling story about a local business crippled by ransomware for weeks, losing hundreds of thousands of dollars despite having cybersecurity insurance.

The conversation takes an intriguing turn when we discuss artificial intelligence—both as a productivity booster for legitimate businesses and as a powerful new weapon for cybercriminals. Ryan offers crucial guidance on using AI safely in your business while protecting intellectual property through proper "siloing" of information.

Perhaps most valuable is our dissection of emerging threats like "fake receipt" scams that bypass traditional security red flags by containing no suspicious links or attachments—instead manipulating victims into calling fake customer service numbers where their financial information is harvested.

Whether you're a tech novice or savvy business leader, this episode delivers essential knowledge to protect your company's future. Listen now to arm yourself against the invisible threats that could determine whether your business thrives or becomes another cybercrime statistic.

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Knowledge management transforms business outcomes by organizing critical data into actionable insights. Women business owners are leveraging these systems to fuel incredible growth, with women-owned businesses growing at twice the rate of male-owned businesses from 2019-2023.

• 14 million women-owned businesses in the US (39% of privately owned businesses)
• These businesses employ 12.2 million people with combined revenue of $2.7 trillion
• California hosts 23% of all women-owned businesses in America (1.5 million)
• Knowledge management combines data, information systems, and analysis
• Effective systems deliver the right data to the right person at the right time
• Create a plan identifying key knowledge points about your business
• Implement systems consolidating internal and external data
• Establish quality control procedures to ensure accurate data
• Experiment with data to find hidden opportunities
• Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly to analyzing business data
• Look for unexpected patterns like unusual customer demographics
• Use technology including AI tools to gain insights

Find this podcast on all major podcast directories or watch the video version on YouTube.

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Curious about how a young entrepreneur is shaking up the HVAC industry? Join us as we sit down with Austin Landy, the ambitious 30-year-old CEO of Heat Pumps Now, who left his father's business to start his own company focused on energy efficiency . Austin reveals the pivotal role of heat pumps in electrification, especially in California's climate, and opens up about the costs and benefits of these systems. He generously shares his journey, including the strategies that helped him solidify a unique business model and marketing plan on a tight budget. From the power of word-of-mouth to the indispensable need for a credible online presence, Austin shares his toolkit for startup success.

But the conversation doesn't stop there. We tackle the real-world impacts of recent LA fires on HVAC businesses, exploring how to navigate challenges like price gouging and make informed decisions in crisis situations. Austin also sheds light on the future of the HVAC industry, emphasizing the shift towards electric solutions and considering the potential for expansion and service diversification. As we wrap up, we celebrate local entrepreneurs like Austin, whose innovative thinking is making a positive impact on their communities. Don't miss this insightful episode that's packed with inspiration and practical advice from a leading figure in sustainable entrepreneurship.

check out episode 83#

on all major podcast directories and You Tube , CEO TO Rainmaker- Gene valdez

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Discover the secrets to thriving as a small business CEO in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on my extensive experience as a commercial banker, I return to the podcasting scene with fresh insights aimed at supporting business leaders navigating annual sales between one and fifteen million dollars. With a focus on strategic growth and value creation, I emphasize the underappreciated power of personal connections over our reliance on digital communication. Dive into a compelling success story where a client's financing strategy was transformed by leveraging commercial finance companies instead of traditional factors.

As we explore the post-COVID business landscape, I tackle the common fears of growth and borrowing head-on, advocating for strategic planning as a solution to inflation and rising costs. Building a capable management team is crucial, and I stress the importance of seeing your business as an investment that can thrive independently of its founder. Prepare for a future where your enterprise operates smoothly on its own terms. Plus, don't miss out on next month's episode featuring an inspiring CEO guest who will share their journey from concept to long-term success, offering actionable insights into effective business execution.

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Ready to shepherd your entrepreneurial venture to the land of plenty? This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, distilled from over a thousand mentorship sessions with budding business leaders. Grab your notepad as I impart the top 10 commandments for entrepreneurial success, starting with the heavenly guidance of robust accounting systems, akin to the GPS for your business journey. Prepare for a masterclass in KPIs that will keep your finger on the pulse of your company's health and ambitions, and discover why adapting to change isn't just smart—it's essential. Plus, we dive into the divine rule of attracting and retaining the celestial best staff with competitive pay and incentives.

Now, let's talk about you, the visionary at the helm. This conversation is your portal to the self-improvement galaxy, where refining leadership skills and motivating your team is the name of the game. I'll reveal how allocating a sacred 15% of your work time to dream up your company's future can lead to profound growth. And hear why managing your cash flow with a 90-day budget is not just smart, but a commandment for maintaining financial grace. These insights are your commandments for not just running a business, but leading one to a promised land of success and sustainability. Join me, and let's chart your course to entrepreneurial enlightenment.

CEO2Rainmkr.com
Evaldez@theloandoctor.loans

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Embark on an inspiring journey with Ivo Tjan, the visionary CEO behind Commerce West Bank, as he recounts his ascent from an eager 18-year-old with banking dreams to founding his very own financial institution before his 28th birthday. Ivo's remarkable tale is a beacon for the entrepreneurial flame, illuminating how regional banks like his are crucial in offering bespoke banking services and personal attention to the backbone of America's economy—small and mid-sized businesses. In a marketplace where larger banks may fall short, Evo and I dissect how these smaller, agile players are not just competing, but thriving by fostering deep-rooted relationships and crafting financial solutions that resonate with the unique needs of each enterprise.

Navigating the convoluted waters of interest rates and political tides, our conversation takes a deeper look at the strategies that fortify banks with solid financial underpinnings in times of economic unpredictability. We contemplate the influence a presidential election could wield on the regulatory landscape and the subsequent ripple effects on the banking sector. Additionally, we delve into the compelling blend of art and science in financial assessments, particularly where artificial intelligence intersects with business banking. This episode is an ode to the symbiotic nature of banking and business relationships, showcasing the irreplaceable value of a profound understanding between a bank and its business clients, much like the alliance Commerce West Bank champions for growth and success.
ITjan@cwbk.com
CEO2rainmkr.com

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