Commercial insurance isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about safeguarding your business's future. This week on "Small Business, Big World," we sit down with Derek Stevenson from Varney Insurance to dissect the essential types of coverage every small business needs and mistakes that they make. From general liability and property insurance to workers' compensation and EPLI, Derek provides a comprehensive guide to securing your business against unforeseen setbacks.

Derek and I discuss the often-overlooked exclusions in property insurance policies that could leave your business vulnerable. As our world becomes increasingly digital, we uncover how this shift impacts insurance underwriting and risk assessment, offering practical advice for staying ahead. Cybersecurity is no longer optional; it's a necessity.

In this episode, we offer actionable tips for business owners to safeguard your operations. This is one not to miss!

Let's talk cash flow and entrepreneurial growth with our guest, Doug Spurling, founder of Waves and Wilderness and Spurling Fitness. In this episode of "Small Business Big World," Doug takes us through his journey from building Spurling Fitness to venturing into consulting and real estate investment. Learn about some strategies of managing cash flow and increasing net worth, and discover why it’s essential to work on your business rather than just in it.

Doug shares insights on scaling a business, shifting from a doer to a manager, and the importance of sales, marketing, and team development. Then, Doug talks about his personal experience of turning a lake house into a successful Airbnb venture, emphasizing planning for the future and using your business cash flow adequately. This episode is packed with practical tips to help you manage and grow your net worth effectively.

Paper Trails was recently ranked on FeedSpot's list of the Top 100 Small Business Podcasts!

Get ready to talk small business ownership with Pat Brady, an attorney at Bergen Parkinson and a small business owner in Maine. Have you ever wondered how to find the perfect business to buy or what steps are involved in making it legally yours? We'll guide you through online platforms and dive into the importance of industry relationships and succession planning. Pat shares his firsthand experiences acquiring small businesses, offering invaluable insights and practical tips for aspiring business owners.

Forming a legal entity for your new venture doesn't have to be scary. Learn about the role of a Letter of Intent (LOI) in setting the groundwork for your purchase, and discover why an LLC might be the best choice for your business structure. Pat emphasizes the flexibility and liability protection LLCs offer, especially compared to corporations and sole proprietorships. We also explore the strategic benefits of setting up multiple LLCs, particularly for real estate investments, and the essential elements of an operating agreement to keep your business running smoothly.

This is a great episode for anyone looking into buying and/or selling a small business.

Ever wondered how small business owners manage everything when it comes to traveling for work? Join us as Kortney Nedeau, a small business professional, shares her fascinating journey from her grandfather's shoe leather sales legacy to building her own thriving business. With Kortney, we explore the relentless world of travel for business. Learn how she uses certain hacks to streamline her travel and maximize certain (tax!) rewards.

This episode isn't just about logistics—it's about the art of balancing work and personal life on the road. Discover Kortney's approach to managing her schedule and the importance of embracing local culture to enrich each trip. Whether you're a seasoned business traveler or gearing up for your first trip, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to make your journeys more efficient and enriching.

What happens when an internship transforms from a simple summer job into a comprehensive, career-shaping experience? Join us as we welcome Don Golini, the visionary behind the Nonantum Resort's revitalized internship program in Kennebunkport. From an informal start to a structured, multifaceted initiative post-COVID, Don takes us through the program's evolution. Discover the blend of departmental rotations, workshops, volunteer opportunities, and personal portfolio development that not only attracts hospitality majors but also students interested in honing their business skills. Gain insights into the recruitment process and the significant positive impact the program has made on the resort's workforce.

We also explore the intimate and vibrant work culture at the Nonantum Resort, emphasizing the essential role of having a dedicated internship manager. Learn how cross-functional collaboration and creative problem-solving—like assigning special projects during a rainy summer—have propelled the program's success.

Small Business Big World was recently ranked #48 on FeedSpot's list of the Best Small Business Podcasts!

Unlock the secrets to content marketing with insights from our marketing director, Jon Portanova. Discover how adopting the "They Ask, You Answer" philosophy has transformed Paper Trails' approach to addressing customer queries upfront.

We dive deeper into the strategic value of high-quality content creation. We'll guide you through our journey of producing varied content, such as blogs, videos, and webinars, that has set us apart from other competitors. By openly discussing pricing and competitor comparisons, we build trust and credibility. Hear how one well-crafted article led to significant recurring revenue by addressing potential clients' needs and questions upfront, proving the long-term benefits of comprehensive content.

Small Business Big World was recently ranked #48 on FeedSpot's list of the Top 100 Small Business Podcasts!

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of scaling a small business from the ground up? Join us on "Small Business Big World" as we sit down with Chris Fortin, the owner of Service Bros. Chris started his entrepreneurial journey during the COVID-19 lockdown while still in high school, initially watering lawns for his father's landscaping business and quickly expanding into odd jobs. He shares how he leveraged word of mouth and local Facebook groups to grow his business. Chris's story is a must-listen for anyone navigating the early stages of business growth.

Chris discusses why transparency and understanding their limits were crucial for maintaining customer satisfaction. We also touch on the dynamics of running a business with a close friend, managing operations remotely while attending college, and their commitment to community support through affordable moving options and partnerships with organizations like Habitat for Humanity.

Small Business Big World has been featured by FeedSpot as a top 50 small business podcast! Check it out here!