I chat with Paula Brand award-winning CEO of Small Business Expos, a not-for-profit bringing together thousands of small business owners each year, in five locations around South East Queensland as well as Toowoomba. As a small business owner Paula saw the need for connection in the growing number of small businesses that were mobile, online or home-based. Since starting Small Business Expos in 2014 Paula estimates $40 million in sales for those attending the annual events. The events also offer sales training for exhibitors, which is one of the points of difference for such success and growth where most expos fail. With plans in 2020 to expand to Melbourne and more there’s no stopping this community of like-minded entrepreneurs. I love a good grassroots story about people coming together, don’t you? Check out what Paula Brand has to say on The Crazy Ones podcast.

Do you leverage libraries whilst working? On Crazy Ones podcast this week is Amy Walduck, a librarian and passionate advocate of these public spaces, as well as their many resources. I had no idea I could borrow digital audiobooks for free from the comfort of my home and personal devices. Not to mention, libraries are using augmented reality and virtual reality to give knowledge in a new way. Amy tells me libraries are used by small businesses and wandering workers who need a space to work without hiring a desk or office, or need better digital resources like faster Internet. Some libraries like Amy’s former employer, the Queensland State library, have free dedicated co-working spaces for business people. They have learning sessions and entrepreneurs-in-residence, as well as the latest business books. The Gold Coast where Amy is now based is the small business capital of Australia if not the world! The libraries must be busy! I realised the library is the original co-working space! They aren’t often promoted that way, making libraries the best-kept secret - whether you are a travelling employee, self-employed, or a small business team. When starting up means a lean operational budget and R&D costs, your library can save expenses for meeting rooms, air-conditioning, and industry education.

Who puts loose change in jam jar or car console? The jar of spare change is redundant now that banking is mainly cashless and that can mean less people are saving. Tim O’Shea, a wealth expert for decades, is helping everyday Australians save money to secure their future. Tim says that you definitely want to put more money towards assets that grow wealth, and less money towards assets that decrease in value or no value. Listen to the full episode of The Crazy Ones podcast.