In this episode of Business Inspires, host Brett Johnson and co-host Katie Ellis sit down with the dynamic Yasmine Robles, owner and lead (self-proclaimed!) digital nerd of Robles Designs.

Yasmine shares her journey as a solopreneur to becoming the head of a growing team at Robles Designs. She dives into the ups and downs she's faced as an entrepreneur and how personal and business challenges have intersected along the way.

Yasmine emphasizes the importance of networking, building relationships, and creating drool-worthy websites for small businesses "hell-bent" on taking over the world.

She also discusses her strong values on education, team management, and the future aspirations for Robles Designs.

Top Takeaways

1. Personal and professional challenges are often intertwined. Yasmine Robles highlights how personal ups and downs influenced her business journey, emphasizing the importance of resilience and determination to reach business success.

2. Networking is key. Yasmine's commitment to networking has not only helped her business grow but has also enabled her to support and inspire others within her community, emphasizing the power of genuine connections.

3. Business values matter. Yasmine emphasizes the significance of providing support and education to clients, prioritizing relationship building over sales pitches, and striving to empower clients with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions for their businesses.

4. Embracing a progressive work culture. Yasmine values her team and demonstrates this through flexible work hours, unlimited PTO, and by offering comprehensive benefits, portraying a people-first approach to business management.

5. Multifaceted inspiration. Yasmine's background as an industrial designer has imbued her design process with a focus on diverse sources of inspiration, from physical objects to user experiences, driving the creativity in her work.

6. Continuous learning and adaptability. By being attuned to the latest tech trends and relying on her team for input, Yasmine highlights the importance of staying relevant in a fast-paced industry.

7. Long-term strategic planning. Yasmine's participation in the Goldman Sachs entrepreneurship program reinforced her understanding of her balance sheet and strengthened her strategic business planning abilities, providing invaluable insight into financial management.

8. Pursuing diverse projects. Beyond her passion for serving b2b clients, Yasmine is open to a variety of projects and clients, reflecting her adaptability and ability to find joy in new experiences, particularly in product-based businesses like seasonings and coffee products.

9. Ambitious yet grounded aspirations. Yasmine's vision for the future combines business growth with a balanced personal lifestyle, maintaining a remote work environment and a focus on recurring clients.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Personal ups and downs affect business success.

05:16 Corporate culture breeds competition, unlike business ownership.

08:50 Flexibility and benefits matter more than pay.

12:38 Using user feedback to improve website usability.

15:52 Personal connections and budget flexibility for projects.

18:18 Team ensures staying current with AI and design.

21:40 Exceeding goals,...

Welcome back to Business Inspires! We asked George Cleary and George Cleary II to join us, to talk about The Cleary Company celebrating 30 years of ingenuity.

They've transformed home renovations, emphasizing relationships and sustainable growth. These industry pioneers have shifted from general contracting to an all-encompassing design-build model, revolutionizing client experiences.

With a culture that's won national accolades, the Clearys align deeply with community values, sponsoring events and championing vital causes like Pelotonia.

They're not just building homes; they're nurturing a legacy of innovation, community spirit, and relentless commitment to excellence.

Top Takeaways

**Embracing Growth and Innovation**: - The Cleary Company's shift from general contracting to offering design and architectural services illustrates the value of evolving business models to better serve customers.

**Intergenerational Wisdom**: - The partnership between George Cleary and George Cleary II highlights the synergy that can be achieved when experience and fresh perspectives combine within a family-run business.

**Cultural Pillars of Success**: - The company’s strong culture, commitment to problem-solving, and collaborative spirit are foundational to its national recognition and internal cohesion.

**Employee Development and Satisfaction**: - The Cleary Company’s emphasis on training and supporting staff in pursuing new opportunities contributes to a positive work environment and employee loyalty.

**Community Engagement and Responsibility** - The company's longstanding support for the TriVillage Chamber and participation in philanthropic endeavors reflects the importance of business roles as corporate citizens.

**Technology as a Lever for Industry Progress**: - George Cleary’s enthusiasm for technological advancements demonstrates the necessity of staying current with industry trends to remain competitive and improve problem-solving techniques.

**Vision for the Future**: - Looking ahead, The Cleary Company plans to focus on growth that emphasizes community impact and the well-being of both clients and employees while staying true to its core values and culture.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Found joy in renovating homes, pursued construction career.

04:57 Growing up in a business-oriented home.

09:27 Inspiring clients through personalized home design process.

10:23 Design process empowers client satisfaction and budget.

16:10 Value relationships, not just making money.

25:57 Supporting community through volunteer work and donations.

32:20 Unsure of future, but stays innovative.

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular...

In this episode of Business Inspires, host Brett Johnson and cohost Katie Ellis are joined by Sierra Thomas, the owner of Touché Financial Solutions and the newly appointed Tri-Village Chamber treasurer.

Sierra shares her journey from starting in pre-med to establishing Touché Financial Solutions and empowering others through financial education.

She discusses the importance of a welcoming approach to finance and her goal of remaining small to deliver a personal touch to her services. With her expertise in QuickBooks, she also explores the exciting potential for financial reporting at the chamber.

Top Takeaways

1. Personal journey: Sierra's journey to establishing Touché Financial Solutions showcases the importance of finding one's true calling and the impact of mentorship in guiding career paths.

2. Importance of adaptability: Sierra's transition from pre-med to accounting highlights the value of being open to exploring new career paths and being adaptable to change.

3. Building a close-knit team: Sierra emphasizes the significance of hiring team members who share the same mission and mindset, indicating the importance of a unified team in delivering exceptional service.

4. Welcoming environment: Creating a welcoming atmosphere in the financial services industry can make a significant difference in alleviating client apprehensions and helping them feel comfortable seeking financial advice.

5. Client-focused approach: Sierra's emphasis on prioritizing the well-being and success of clients sets Touché Financial Solutions apart, highlighting the significance of a client-centered approach in financial services.

6. Continuous learning: The podcast emphasizes the importance of ongoing education and professional development in staying ahead of industry trends and providing innovative solutions to clients.

7. Financial planning misconceptions: Addressing misconceptions such as the idea that financial planning is only for the wealthy or nearing retirement, Sierra stresses the importance of financial planning at every stage of life.

8. Building for impact: Sierra's aspirations for the future of Touché Financial Solutions reflect a desire to remain a smaller firm to maintain a personalized approach while looking to expand services and community partnerships for greater impact.

9. Financial reporting and QuickBooks expertise: Sierra's enthusiasm for utilizing QuickBooks to streamline financial reporting reinforces the pivotal role of technology in facilitating strategic decision-making and business guidance.

Memorable Moments

00:00 College struggle led to mentor, accounting career.

05:48 Building legacy, started freelancing, took leap, successful.

07:38 Touché Financial Solutions offers range of services.

14:09 Prefers small size, aims for greater impact.

15:42 Promoting financial education and collaboration with community.

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires,

In this episode of Business Inspires, our hosts Katie Ellis and Brett Johnson are joined by Laura Oldham, the founder of Starburst Media, a web design company.

Laura shares her journey from aspiring journalist to becoming a successful entrepreneur, navigating the dynamic world of digital marketing and web design.

From bartending in Chicago to learning about monetizing social media, Laura's unconventional path has led her to work with a diverse range of clients, all the while infusing her storytelling and problem-solving skills into her work.

Laura also discusses the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with personal life, emphasizing the importance of staying flexible and recognizing that not every day is perfectly balanced.

Additionally, she offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the significance of getting involved in things you're passionate about and staying organized from the start.

Laura sheds light on her goals and aspirations for Starburst Media, emphasizing her focus on finding fulfillment and joy outside of work as well.

Top Takeaways

1. Volunteering and participating in activities related to your passion can lead to valuable connections and potential clients. Consider engaging in events, committees, or boards to meet like-minded individuals and expand your network.

2. Staying organized and setting up a strong foundation for your business, including managing finances, invoicing, and expenses, is crucial from the very beginning. Starting with solid systems in place ensures smooth operations as your business grows.

3. Flexibility and adaptability are essential for entrepreneurs. Being willing to pivot and flow with changing trends and demands can lead to greater success and resilience in a competitive marketplace.

4. Balancing work and personal life as an entrepreneur, particularly when juggling parenthood, involves recognizing that not every day will be evenly split. It's about doing your best each day and realizing that many people are facing similar challenges.

5. Seeking fulfillment and motivation outside of work is important for a well-rounded life. Engaging in separate, personally fulfilling projects can provide a sense of purpose and personal growth beyond the daily responsibilities of entrepreneurship.

6. Recognizing the need for mental well-being and taking steps to address burnout are essential for maintaining long-term success. Implementing strategies to balance your workload and pursuing activities that bring joy and satisfaction are crucial in avoiding burnout.

7. For entrepreneurs who may struggle with self-promotion, consider alternative methods of networking, such as volunteering within your community. By aligning your passions with volunteer opportunities, you can connect with potential clients and expand your clientele base.

8. Demonstrating patience and resilience in handling the daily demands of entrepreneurship, particularly while managing tasks such as invoicing and financial management, are key attributes that contribute to long-term success.

9. Embracing personal interests and hobbies outside of work is vital for personal growth and maintaining a dynamic and interesting life.

10. Prioritizing flexibility and ongoing learning allows entrepreneurs to evolve with the changing landscape of technology, business, and market demands. Being willing to learn new tools and trends can give you a competitive edge and provide added value to your clients.

Memorable...

Welcome to another episode of Business Inspires!

In this episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Juan Alvarez, a conscious executive coach and meditation teacher. Juan shares his journey of how he discovered meditation at a young age and how it transformed his life as he navigated the challenges of becoming a CEO.

Now, Juan helps business leaders become more present, peaceful, and purposeful in their lives. Join us as we delve into the importance of conscious leadership, the benefits of meditation, and how it can lead to a more compassionate and humane business environment.

Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Juan Alvarez on this episode of Business Inspires!

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

This season is presented by:

• City of Upper Arlington.
• Robles Designs
• City of Grandview
• LBB Edutainment

To schedule a guest appearance, or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

katie@chamberpartnership.org

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

Please leave us a review on Google!

We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

Discover more podcasts like this at Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2024 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

Mentioned in this episode:

Be Your Best Self 2024

Get ready for an epic experience that you won’t forget! The Be Your Best Self Conference, August 22nd at the Grand Event Center in Grandview Heights.

TriVillage Chamber Partnership link

Brandon Borgmann is a valuable member of the Carlisle Patchen and Murphy law firm.

Brandon is an expert in estate and business succession planning, probate special needs law, and tax. He provides legal counsel to individuals, business owners, and families, helping them with estate planning, tax planning, and business succession planning.

He shares insights on the importance of estate planning, discussing when people should hire him and the various life events that can trigger the need for an estate plan. From having children and getting married to inheriting assets or moving to a new state, these events can all impact one's estate plan.

Brandon emphasizes that estate planning is not just about money, but also about ensuring the well-being of minor children and making decisions about their future. He highlights the importance of tailoring estate planning services to individual clients, considering their unique circumstances and preferences.

Some areas we cover include...

- Discussion on why everyone needs an estate plan and when the need arises (age 18 and life events such as having a child, getting married, getting divorced, etc.)

- Importance of powers of attorney for parents of children turning 18, allowing access to medical records and financial management

- Range of clients and their financial situations, from young married couples with negative net worth to those with millions of dollars

- Importance of planning for the care of children and management of inherited assets after the death of both parents

- Tailoring estate planning services to each client's specific situation and preferences

- The inclusion of documents such as powers of attorney and the avoidance of guardianship in case of incapacitation

- The emotional nature of estate planning but the importance of making choices oneself rather than leaving them to strangers

- The goal of estate planning is to achieve the client's intent and maintain control over decision-making

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

This season is presented by:

• City of Upper Arlington.
• Robles Designs
• City of Grandview
• LBB Edutainment

To schedule a guest appearance, or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

katie@chamberpartnership.org

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

Please leave us a review on Google!

We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

Discover more podcasts like this at

Giving first-generation entrepreneurs the CLARITY and GUIDANCE to help integrate and achieve their life, business, and financial goals. That's what Gerber is all about. And we hear how this is done with our guest, Liz Damceksi, Relationship Manager at Gerber.

Elizabeta.Damceski@gerberclarity.com

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

This season is presented by:

• City of Upper Arlington.
• Robles Designs
• City of Grandview
• LBB Edutainment

To schedule a guest appearance, or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

katie@chamberpartnership.org

Follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or your favorite podcast player.

HELP US SPREAD THE WORD!

Please leave us a review on Google!

We'd love it if you could please share this podcast with your social media friends!

Discover more podcasts like this at Circle270Media Podcast Consultants.

TriVillage Chamber Partnership link

Copyright 2024 Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

Mentioned in this episode:

Be Your Best Self 2024

Get ready for an epic experience that you won’t forget! The Be Your Best Self Conference, August 22nd at the Grand Event Center in Grandview Heights.

TriVillage Chamber Partnership link

In the latest episode of Business Inspires, we had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Eric Hutchison of Hutchison Consulting. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

• Employee engagement and satisfaction are at the forefront of organizational psychology, and a sense of belonging is a significant predictor of employee engagement, which is essential in this labor market.

• Strategic planning and aligning employees and resources with an organization's vision and goals are crucial for growth and idea generation.

• Understanding individuals' different problem-solving approaches is crucial in identifying what may work best for your organization.

• Strategic planning is an ongoing process that should be top of mind regularly, and communication between employees, senior leadership, and entry-level workers is essential.

When employees understand how their work contributes to the organization's overall goals, they are more likely to feel a sense of ownership and purpose. The benefits are engagement, productivity, and innovation. Some things businesses can do to align people with strategy include:

• Involve all levels of employees in the strategic planning process. Including employees gives them a sense of ownership and helps them to understand how their job supports the mission and vision of the organization.

• Communicate strategy clearly and consistently. When employees understand the plan, why it is essential, and how their job contributes, their role clarity can improve.

• Reward employees for achieving strategic goals. Rewarding employees in a way that contributes to their motivation shows that you understand them, their work is valued, and their contributions make a difference.

• Create a culture of continuous learning and development. Advancement helps employees to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies, which can help them to be more effective in their roles.

These steps enable organizational leaders to create a sense of belonging and a successful business. Employees who feel part of something bigger than themselves are more likely to be engaged and productive. The result can be increased profits, customer satisfaction, and innovation.

Interested in the free employee Experience Consultation Dr. Eric mentions in this podcast? Contact him at info@hutchison-consulting.com

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

This season is presented by:

• City of Upper Arlington.
• Robles Designs
• City of Grandview
• LBB Edutainment

To schedule a guest appearance, or find out more about sponsoring Business Inspires, send an email to:

Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber...