In this episode of Mike and Blaine, Mike Milan sits in for Mike Milan while Mike is stranded in Denver. Mike and Blaine dive into the oft-dreaded topic of RFPs. Are responding to Request for Proposals an effective tactic for business development, as Mike contends, or the greatest scourge on small businesses since they were invented by the devil, as Blaine contends? Tune in and find out!

Don't miss out on the latest insights and entertaining discussions on entrepreneurship, small business, and random BS. Subscribe, follow, and like Mike and Blaine's "Business, Beer, and BS" and catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @GuinnessBreweryBalt @omenbrewingyeg

Mike: Open Gate Guinness Brewery - Old Fashioned Inspired Ale

Blaine: Omen Brewing - Puca Extra Stout

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, today’s guest host ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and Neighbor Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u2Tg3tfgKwM

Listen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this episode of the Business Beer and BS podcast, guest host Michael Milan and co-host Blaine Bertsch discuss the topic of Request for Proposals (RFPs). They share their experiences with RFPs in their respective industries and discuss the challenges and strategies involved in responding to RFPs. They emphasize the importance of relationships, communication, and understanding the needs of the client when navigating the RFP process.

They also touch on the fairness of RFPs and the impact of external factors such as supply chain resiliency and market conditions. The episode concludes with a lighthearted discussion about their friendly rivalry and the tradition of exchanging a decanter of whiskey based on the outcome of a football game. In this conversation, Blaine and Michael discuss the process of responding to Request for Proposals (RFPs) and share insights and tips for success.

They cover topics such as the importance of understanding the RFP requirements, the value of building relationships with decision-makers, and the need to differentiate yourself from competitors. They also discuss the challenges of pricing and discounting, as well as the post-approval assessment and follow-up after submitting an RFP. Overall, the conversation provides valuable advice for anyone involved in the RFP process.

Takeaways

• Responding to RFPs requires careful reading and understanding of the specifications and requirements.
• Building relationships and maintaining open communication with all stakeholders can be crucial in the RFP process.
• The fairness of RFPs can be subjective, and the optics of fairness may not always align with reality.
• External factors such as supply chain resiliency and market conditions can impact the RFP process.
• Building relationships with decision-makers and key stakeholders can give you an advantage in the bidding process.
• Differentiating yourself from competitors by highlighting unique value propositions and addressing unasked questions can make your proposal stand out.
• Pricing and discounting should be carefully considered to ensure profitability and avoid a race to the bottom.
• Conducting a post-approval assessment and learning from both successful and unsuccessful bids can help improve future proposals.

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When we talk about cutting expenses, we often use the phrase “trimming the fat.” True, cutting operating expenses is one way to make more money in a business, but there is an art to when, where, and why a cost is eliminated. Stop losing money and hindering your growth. Join Mike & Blaine as they talk about cutting costs in your business and streamlining an operation in this week’s episode.

Don't miss out on the latest insights and entertaining discussions on entrepreneurship, small business, and random BS. Subscribe, follow, and like Mike and Blaine's "Business, Beer, and BS" and catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @OskarBluesNC @snakelakebrewco

Mike: Oskar Blues - Old Chub Scotch Ale

Blaine: Snake Lake - Speed Cobra NEIPA

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and Neighbor Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cl2KQudZK1Q

Listen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this episode, Mike and Blaine discuss the importance of cutting costs in business. They highlight the four ways to make more money in a company: increasing sales, cutting cost of goods sold, increasing prices, and cutting expenses.

They emphasize the need to be strategic when cutting costs and not to touch expenses that drive revenue. They also share personal stories and examples to illustrate the impact of cutting the wrong expenses. The episode concludes with a mention of Dryrun, a software that helps businesses forecast cash flow and model scenarios. In this conversation, Mike and Blaine discuss the difficult decisions business owners face when cutting costs and reducing expenses.

They reflect on their own experiences and the challenges of letting go of employees. They emphasize the importance of considering the impact on the business's survival and the need to focus on revenue-generating activities.

They also discuss the significance of staying resilient and hanging on for the potential turning point that could change the fortunes of the business. The conversation concludes with a reminder to carefully evaluate expenses and make strategic decisions to drive revenue.

Takeaways

• There are four ways to make more money in a company: increasing sales, cutting cost of goods sold, increasing prices, and cutting expenses.
• When cutting costs, be strategic and avoid touching expenses that drive revenue.
• Cutting the wrong expenses can have a negative impact on revenue and customer experience.
• Consider using software like Dryrun to forecast cash flow and model scenarios in order to make informed decisions about cost cutting. Cutting costs should focus on expenses that do not drive revenue
• Consider the impact on the business's survival when making difficult decisions
• Stay resilient and hang on for potential turning points
• Evaluate expenses strategically to drive revenue

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Catch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/

I keep hearing the term being tossed around about how easy it is to become a micro-influencer. First of all, what in the heck does that even mean, and how is that a path to prosperity? Is today’s modern economy and entrepreneur completely changing the landscape of business? Find out in this episode of Mike & Blaine what it takes to turn your ingenuity, charm, and personality into a paycheck.

Don't miss out on the latest insights and entertaining discussions on entrepreneurship, small business, and random BS. Subscribe, follow, and like Mike and Blaine's "Business, Beer, and BS" and catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @HellorHighWaterBrewing @les.trois.mousquetaires

Mike: Hell of High Water Brewing - Float the River Kolsch

Blaine: Les Trois Mousquetaires - Stout Impériale

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and Neighbor Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/BFQzPJPPuzE

Listen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this conversation, Mike and Blaine discuss the concept of influencers and their different perceptions of what it means. They touch on the controversies surrounding Pete Rose, Mark McGuire, Sammy Sosa, and Barry Bonds in the world of baseball. The conversation veers off into a discussion about the importance of competition and the influence of political figures like Trump and Biden.

Overall, the conversation explores the idea of influence and how it can be positive or negative. The conversation explores the concept of influencers and the distinction between thought leaders and influencers. They discuss the different levels of influencers, such as micro influencers and macro influencers, and the criteria for being considered an influencer.

They also touch on the authenticity and credibility of influencers, as well as the role of salespeople in influencing purchasing decisions. The conversation ends with a teaser for the next episode, where they will further discuss the topic of influencers.

Takeaways

• Influencers are individuals who have a following and can influence others through their actions or opinions.
• The perception of influencers can vary, with some seeing them as positive figures sharing knowledge and others seeing them as individuals who promote products for personal gain.
• Controversial figures like Pete Rose, Mark McGuire, Sammy Sosa, and Barry Bonds have all had an influence on the world of baseball, but their actions and reputations differ.
• Competition is an important aspect of sports and other areas of life, and it can lead to improved performance and innovation.
• Political figures like Trump and Biden are also influencers, as their words and actions have the power to influence others. The distinction between thought leaders and influencers lies in the perception of authenticity and credibility.
• Micro influencers are focused on a specific niche and are considered subject matter experts.
• The success of influencers depends on the connection and authenticity they establish with their audience.
• Salespeople play a different role than influencers, as they focus on selling products rather than providing impartial information.
• The next episode will delve deeper into the topic of influencers and the impact of taking money from third parties.

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Yep, it’s the 4th of July, and we did a podcast episode! We did. This is it! This opportunity got us thinking about all the ways companies try to leverage holidays, events and news to promote themselves. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it flops big time. In this episode, Mike & Blaine talk about the perceived pressure to jump on the bandwagon to promote your brand… You know, like we are doing…

Don't miss out on the latest insights and entertaining discussions on entrepreneurship, small business, and random BS. Subscribe, follow, and like Mike and Blaine's "Business, Beer, and BS" and catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @independencebrewing

Mike: independence Brewing Company - Austin Amber Ale

Blaine: Superflux - Montserrat IPA

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and Neighbor Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TL-pcUOSHpY

Listen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this episode, Mike and Blaine discuss how companies leverage holidays to promote themselves. They reflect on the Fourth of July and the significance of holidays in general. They also share personal stories and experiences related to holidays and discuss the practice of companies using holidays as marketing opportunities. In this conversation, Mike and Blaine discuss the pros and cons of attaching a business to a holiday.

They emphasize the importance of understanding your target audience and the meaning of the holiday before making any connections. They also share examples of successful and unsuccessful holiday marketing campaigns. Additionally, they discuss the value of creating a level of preciousness and emotional connection with customers through personalized messages and unique swag. They conclude by encouraging listeners to subscribe, like, and follow their podcast, and to consider becoming a sponsor.

Takeaways

• Companies often use holidays as an opportunity to promote themselves and keep their brand in front of customers.
• It's important to remember the true purpose and significance of holidays, rather than just using them as marketing opportunities.
• Personal experiences and stories related to holidays can create a connection with customers and add a personal touch to marketing efforts.
• Creating fun and lighthearted content around holidays can be a way to engage with customers and show appreciation. Understand your target audience and the meaning of the holiday before attaching your business to it.
• Create a level of preciousness and emotional connection with customers through personalized messages and unique swag.
• Consider the timing and relevance of your marketing campaigns to maximize their impact.
• Engage with your audience through social media and encourage them to subscribe, like, and follow your content.
• Explore sponsorship opportunities to increase brand visibility and support your business.

Support the Show.

Catch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/

It’s super frustrating. You’ve hired someone who seemed perfect on paper, but soon, you're back to square one. Maybe it’s a culture clash, or maybe you missed some red flags. In either case, it's frustrating and costly. If you've ever struggled with finding and keeping the right employees, then this episode of Mike & Blaine is for you. Tune in while they discuss the secrets to successful recruiting and retention.

Don't miss out on the latest insights and entertaining discussions on entrepreneurship, small business, and random BS. Subscribe, follow, and like Mike and Blaine's "Business, Beer, and BS" and catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @snakelakebrewco

Mike: Neighbor Pat’s Smoked Porter

Blaine: Snake Lake - Birthday Suit DIPA

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and Neighbor Pat!

Listen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Zr3l3iY3zuk

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this episode, Mike and Blaine discuss the challenges of finding and keeping good employees. They share personal stories and insights on recruiting, retention, and the importance of hiring for fit. They emphasize the significance of culture and customer service in building a successful team. The conversation highlights the need for owners to set the tone and create a positive work environment. The conversation explores the importance of finding the right people for a team and creating a positive work culture. It emphasizes the need for a good fit between employees and the company's values and goals.

The hosts discuss the challenges of hiring and retaining employees, as well as the role of motivation and personal interests in employee satisfaction. They also touch on the impact of culture on team dynamics and the importance of effective communication and collaboration. The conversation concludes with a brief mention of the Edmonton Oilers hockey team.

Takeaways

• Finding and keeping good employees is a common challenge for businesses.
• Hiring for fit is crucial to building a successful team.
• Culture and customer service play a significant role in employee satisfaction and customer experience.
• Owners need to set the tone and create a positive work environment.
• Listening to customers and valuing their feedback is essential for business growth. Finding the right people for a team is crucial for success.
• A good fit between employees and the company's values and goals is essential.
• Motivation and personal interests play a significant role in employee satisfaction.
• Culture and team dynamics greatly impact the overall performance of a team.
• Effective communication and collaboration are key to a successful work environment.
• Hiring the right person is the first step in ensuring employee retention

Support the Show.

Catch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/

Join us on Mike & Blaine as we tackle the hot topic of AI vs. MI (My Intelligence). Discover why no algorithm can match the wit, wisdom, and wild ideas that come from real human brains. We’ll share some hilarious examples and thought-provoking insights on why your smarts beat silicon any day. It's a fun and enlightening chat that proves humans still have the edge in the age of AI. Tune in for a blend of laughs and learning!

Don't miss out on the latest insights and entertaining discussions on entrepreneurship, small business, and random BS. Subscribe, follow, and like Mike and Blaine's "Business, Beer, and BS" and catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @GooseIsland @BrasserieDieuduCiel

Mike: Goose Island - Bourbon County Brand Stout

Blaine: Dieu Du Ciel - Peche Mortel

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Jaqi York from Blooming CFO, Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and neighbour Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9wduc-ROGAs

Listen to all our episodes at mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this episode, Mike and Blaine discuss the concept of being 'dumb' in business, which refers to not fully understanding one's own business. They share personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate how business owners often think they are unique and no one else has faced their challenges. However, they emphasize that there are common fundamentals of business that apply across industries. They also highlight the importance of understanding costs, pricing, and profitability in order to avoid financial pitfalls.

In this conversation, Mike and Blaine discuss the importance of understanding the financial metrics of a business and how they impact profitability. They emphasize the need to track hours accurately, stay under budget, and ensure enough billable hours to avoid losing money. They also highlight the significance of pricing products and services correctly to maintain a healthy gross profit margin. The conversation touches on the dangers of not understanding the financial statements of a business and the potential consequences of mispricing.

They conclude with some lighthearted banter about the Edmonton Oilers and share personal stories.

Takeaways

- Being 'dumb' in business means not fully understanding one's own business, not necessarily being unintelligent.

- Many business owners think they are unique and no one else has faced their challenges, but there are common fundamentals of business that apply across industries.

- Understanding costs, pricing, and profitability is crucial for business success.

- Learning from others who have faced similar challenges can be valuable in navigating business obstacles.

- Business owners should constantly strive to improve their understanding of their business and make informed decisions based on data and analysis. Tracking hours accurately, staying under budget, and maintaining enough billable hours are crucial for avoiding financial losses in a business.

- Pricing products and services correctly is essential for maintaining a healthy gross profit margin.

- Understanding the financial statements of a business is crucial for identifying potential problems and making informed decisions.

- Mispricing can lead to financial difficulties and should be avoided by considering the needs of the target market.

- Personal stories and banter can add an enjoyable touch to conversations.

Support the Show.

Catch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/

Everyone thinks their business is unique, and no one will understand what they do. You know, because nobody does it like you. But what happens when you think like that is you can’t see yourself as successful as anyone else and end up lost in the fog of day-to-day routine. Join Mike & Blaine in this hard-hitting episode of the things we do that often hinder our own success.

Don’t miss out! Subscribe, follow, and like "Business, Beer, and BS" for engaging stories, valuable lessons, and great entertainment. Catch every episode!

Featured Beer:

Mike: Neighbour Pat’s - Blue Moon

Blaine: Anchorage Brewing - Dual Sided Triple IPA

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Jaqi York from Blooming CFO, Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and neighbour Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/E9aaNO0El8g

Listen to all our episodes at: mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show Notes

In this episode, Mike and Blaine discuss the concept of being 'dumb' in business, which refers to not fully understanding one's own business. They share personal anecdotes and examples to illustrate how business owners often think they are unique and no one else has faced their challenges. However, they emphasize that there are common fundamentals of business that apply across industries. They also highlight the importance of understanding costs, pricing, and profitability in order to avoid financial pitfalls.

In this conversation, Mike and Blaine discuss the importance of understanding the financial metrics of a business and how they impact profitability. They emphasize the need to track hours accurately, stay under budget, and ensure enough billable hours to avoid losing money. They also highlight the significance of pricing products and services correctly to maintain a healthy gross profit margin. The conversation touches on the dangers of not understanding the financial statements of a business and the potential consequences of mispricing.

They conclude with some lighthearted banter about the Edmonton Oilers and share personal stories.

Takeaways

- Being 'dumb' in business means not fully understanding one's own business, not necessarily being unintelligent.
- Many business owners think they are unique and no one else has faced their challenges, but there are common fundamentals of business that apply across industries.
- Understanding costs, pricing, and profitability is crucial for business success.
- Learning from others who have faced similar challenges can be valuable in navigating business obstacles.
- Business owners should constantly strive to improve their understanding of their business and make informed decisions based on data and analysis. Tracking hours accurately, staying under budget, and maintaining enough billable hours are crucial for avoiding financial losses in a business.
- Pricing products and services correctly is essential for maintaining a healthy gross profit margin.
- Understanding the financial statements of a business is crucial for identifying potential problems and making informed decisions.
- Mispricing can lead to financial difficulties and should be avoided by considering the needs of the target market.
- Personal stories and lighthearted banter can add an enjoyable touch to conversations.

Support the Show.

Catch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/

It never fails. You are in a meeting. You are making great progress. Then, someone derails the entire conversation. Maybe it’s their attention span, maybe you assumed they knew or understood more than they did. In either case, it's a mood killer and an obstacle to progress. If you’ve ever sat in a meeting that has taken a wrong turn, then this episode of Mike & Blaine is for you. Tune in while they discuss the communication challenges of being in business leadership.

Don’t miss out! Subscribe, follow, and like "Business, Beer, and BS" for engaging stories, valuable lessons, and great entertainment. Catch every episode!

Featured Beer: @DRAGONSMILK @yukonbeer

Mike: Dragon’s Milk Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout

Blaine: Yukon Brewing - Unplugged IPA

Thanks to our Beer Sponsors! Jaqi York from Blooming CFO, Rachel Barnett from Gentle Frog, ‘Baltimore Mike,’ CPA Larry Weinstein, and neighbour Pat!

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/WramLrAsg7g

Listen to all our episodes at: https://www.mikeandblaine.com

cashflowmike.com

dryrun.com

#mikeandblaine #smallbusines #cashflow #finance #beer #entrepreneur #craftbeer

Show notes:

In this episode, Mike and Blaine discuss the frustration of meetings that go off track and how to handle them. They share personal stories of meetings derailed by misunderstandings and unrelated tangents. The conversation highlights the importance of clear communication and avoiding jargon or assumptions. They also explore strategies for keeping meetings on track and addressing issues when they arise. In this conversation, Blaine and Mike discuss the challenges of staying on track during meetings and the importance of having a plan while remaining adaptable. They share their experiences of meetings going off track and the pressure to contribute, as well as the need for structure and flexibility. They also highlight the value of listening and adapting to the conversation and the importance of having multiple scenarios and constraints to foster innovation. Overall, they emphasize the constant evolution and improvement of communication skills in business.

Takeaways

Meetings can easily go off track due to misunderstandings or unrelated tangents.

Clear communication is essential to avoid confusion and keep meetings focused.

Leaders should be prepared to address issues and redirect the conversation when necessary.

Avoid using jargon or assuming that everyone has the same level of understanding.

Setting clear objectives and agendas for meetings can help keep them on track. Staying on track during meetings can be challenging, but having a plan and structure can help keep everyone focused.

It's important to be adaptable and flexible during meetings, as the conversation may shift and priorities may change.

Listening to what is happening around you and adapting to the situation is crucial for effective communication.

Having multiple scenarios and constraints can foster innovation and help prepare for different outcomes.

Constantly evolving and improving communication skills is essential in business.

Support the Show.

Catch more episodes, see our sponsors and get in touch at https://mikeandblaine.com/