National Federation of Independent Business’s Optimism Index made a small but notable gain, settling at 93.8 for December. Business optimism increased four times since September, ending 2011 on an up note. Read the complete article here.
mepainter
Charles Lindemuth, painter, illustrator, innovator and entrepreneur visits Getting Down to Business® and talks about how he makes a living as a fine arts painter. Moving from canvas and brush to a digital art form was a natural step for Charles. Listen as he talks about that process and some of his creations such as “mepainter.”
Business Risk Management
Chis Pobieglo, business insurance expert with Business Insurance Associates, is joined by his business partner and wife Angie to talk about the “Risk of Serving.” That’s right, the local board you voluntary serve can cause you financial distress. Find out more as Chris and Angie talk about Directors and Officers (D&O) insurance.
Learn how to increase advertising frequency without increasing your advertising budget. Dave introduces you to Mike Michalowicz, the author of The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur, who believes the greatest business success come from underfunded, inexperienced entrepreneurs. Read the complete article on the Wall Street Journal site.
Steve Forbes on Economics
Listen as Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief for Forbes Media is Getting Down to Business® with Dave Weatherholt. Forbes discusses his book How Capitalism Will Save Us, Austrian Economist Joseph Schumpeter, the “Brutality of Capitalism,” and more.
Small-business lending hit a 4 year high in November 2011, according to Thomson Reuter/Pay Net Index. Listen as Dave describes a small but positive change for small businesses. Read the complete article on the Wall Street Journal site.
2012 Business and Marketing Planning
It’s not too late to start simple but effective planning for this New Year. Small-Business Marketing Expert Amanda Cullen and Small-Business Financial Expert Dave Weatherholt give practical tips on planning for 2012. Be bold and set a sales goal that will make you smile. Dave provides tools and advice on how to achieve that audacious goal. Amanda gives you practical cost effective marketing tips that will move your company toward achieving that sales goal.
Small-Business Confidence Rises for Third Consecutive Month
Dave discusses the latest “Optimism Index” which was up 1.8 point in November, settling at a still weak 92.0, according to the National Federation of Independent Businesses (NFIB). Read the complete article.
The Journey of Publishing
Kelly Fisher– attorney, author and publisher– visits Dave on this program. Listen as Kelly discusses how he came to write his new book A Clueless Man’s Guide to Relationships. The story doesn’t end there. The easy part was writing the book; creating a great end product and introducing it to the world takes more effort. Kelly takes us through his journey.
Business Risk Management
Listen as Chris Poblieglo, insurance expert, talks about Fidelity Bonds. Find out much, much more about this potential business risk and a solution. Visit Business Insurance Associates’ website - a must link for business risk management information.
A business incubator called VETransfer provides free mentoring and facilities to military veterans who start their own businesses. The program is funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs and has a waiting list for their services. Listen as Dave discusses the WSJ article.
SBA 504 Loan Program
When you need to get a job done right, the correct tool works best. Listen as Barbara Gill, VP & Senior Loan officer with Evergreen Business Capital, describes the SBA 504 loan program. If your business needs a new location, land, buildings or even leasehold improvements, financing with the 504 program maybe the right tool for you.
Go it Alone
Listen as Geoff Burch discusses the bargaining process and its potential negative impact in sales. Chapter 17 of Irresistible Persuasion provides great advice.
The 800-Pound Gorilla – Economic News Summary November 2011
November affirmed that the US economy is no longer in a recession, but it can be hard to tell. Listen as Dave explains why he improves the November grade to a “D.” To find out why and view key economic graphs read the complete article on Weatherholt & Associate’s website.
Twitter Talk
Live talk radio can be full of surprises. Listen as Dave and Amanda adjust in mid-stream from the planned topic “Hands That Photograph” to “Should You Be on Twitter.” The “Marketing Matters” segment took over the program, with a full discussion devoted to Twitter, including some great tips from Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing.
The House approved a bill that would let companies sell equities online. Senator Scott Brown (R., Mass.) introduced a similar measure. Listen as Dave discusses the overwhelmingly positive potential of this legislation. And read the complete article on the Wall Street Journal.
Cash Flow
If your business is on a calendar year, then you are approaching the end of this year. Have you been tracking your performance numbers or are you afraid to look? If you have spent most of this year looking for cash, then chances are that you have not been very profitable. Listen as Dave discusses cash management tools that work.
What if your point-of-sale system went down during peak sales on “Black Friday”? How much would that cost your business? Tim White, our technology guru, discusses the inevitable but avoidable business risk– backing up your IT system. Visit Tim at www.akcb.com.
The NFIB’s “Optimism Index” gained 1.3 points, nudging the index up to 90.2. Listen as Dave discusses the main reason the index remains mired in low readings. Read complete article on NFIB’s website.
Market Analysis
According to Celtic myths, there was once a magical cup. This cup satisfied the tastes and needs of all who drank from it. These myths led to the legend of the Holy Grail. The business equivalent of the Holy Grail is the Business Plan. The real value of a business plan is the process. Listen as Dave gets a rare opportunity to take you through the process of completing a “Market Analysis.”
Even with 14 million people unemployed, 40% of small businesses complain about the dearth of qualified workers. Listen as Dave talks about a pressing problem for employers. Read complete article at the Wall Street Journal.
Credit & Business Lending
Dave’s guest is Bill Cessnun, VP Commercial Loan Officer with Northrim Bank– a Alaskan community bank. Listen as Bill talks about making a credit decision during the business lending process. Bill provides great information to Dave and his listeners.
Go it Alone
Alice in Wonderland meets a Cheshire Cat at the beginning of her journey. Listen as Geoff Burch explains how “measuring success” ties in to Alice’s journey. Intrigued? Listen to the show!
SMALL-BUSINESS CONFIDENCE SEES MODEST GAIN: THE START OF A TREND, OR A BLIP?
Small-business optimism gained 0.8 points in September, according to the National Federation of Independent Business’ (NFIB’s) latest Index, ending a six-month decline. Read complete article here.
2011 Summer Tourism Update
Listen as Julie Saupe, CEO and President of Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) returns for her 5th visit to Getting Down to Business®. Julie covers a lot of ground including the just completed 2011 Summer Visitor Season.
Business Risk Management
Listen as Chris Pobieglo, President of Business Insurance Associates, Inc and business insurance expert, explains surety bonding. Today he discusses bonding for the construction industry. Listen and learn a lot.
The passing of Steve Jobs had an impact on me. The “Information Age” developed during my business career and the entrepreneurs, innovators and founders are a source of inspiration to us all. The world will miss the inspiration and energy of Mr. Jobs. He ranks with Great American Entrepreneurs: Ford, Carnegie, Morgan, Vanderbilt, McLean, Gates, etc.
Business Succession Planning
Starting and running a small business is an emotional experience. The business contains a lot of the founder which makes it hard to pass on. Succession planning is something most small business owners don’t think about. Listen as Russell Ball, Founder and owner of ACB Solutions, a 25 year old business tells the story of his plan and how it involves Tim White, the company’s Chief Technology Officer. Find out more by visiting: www.akcb.com.
Go It Alone
Listen as Geoff Burch, author & business expert, talks about “Big Decisions” from his book Irresistible Persuasion. As usual, Geoff has some great advice along with a great story. Visit Geoff atwww.geoffburch.com.
People used to working in an office stocked with technology may find that starting as a solo enterprise can be painful. Listen as Dave discusses a useful reality of going it alone. Or read complete article: “Spending Wisely on Technology.”
Alaskan Association of Authors
Authors Josie & Mark McKinney are the co-founders of the Alaskan Association of Authors. Listen as they discuss the reasons for starting their company and the books they have written and published.
Do you want to market your business on Facebook but don’t know how? Facebook, Inc. the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National Federation of Independent Business will be able to help. Listen as Dave summarizes the new Facebook partnership and how it will help your business. Read complete article here.
Graphic Design & Technology
Listen as Adrienne Wilkerson, a graphic designer with Beacon Publishing & Design, and Dave talk about the gigantic shift technology had on the graphic design business. Adrienne also shares her experience building a business– a topic dear to all business owners’ hearts.
Tech Talk
Listen as Tim White, Chief Technology Officer with ACB Solutions introduces his new program segment Tech Talk.” Tim discusses his goal for the segment and talks about the “What Changed?” effect.
Listen to the highlights of the NFIB’s monthly Optimism Index. This index dropped dramatically in August– find out why. Or read complete article: “Small Business Confidence Takes Huge Hit.”
Simon & Seaforts: The Restaurant Business
After over 30 years in Anchorage, Simon & Seaforts is one of the city’s oldest and best restaurants. Listen as Robert Kilby gives us a behind the scenes look a successful restaurant. This is a great show about a super business.
Business Risk Management
Do you know what a “surety bond” is used for? Listen as business insurance expert Chris Pobielgo talks more about this important insurance product. Chris is president of Business Insurance Associates.
Listen as guest host Christopher Pobieglo gives a brief recap of key economic indicators. The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) will be holding three free webinars. Find out more at their website - nfib.com.
He also discusses traffic safety and potential business risks from a “Risk Management” standpoint.
Make Credit Card Transactions Easy
Today’s special guest Sushil Wanigantunga, president of American Credit Card Systems, provides great insights into the management of debit and credit card transactions. Listen to find out how to take credit and debit cards in your business.
Marketing Matters
Listen as marketing expert Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, discusses marketing on Facebook. Amanda provides creative ideas to build a following.
Small companies are getting savvier about using Groupon. Listen as Dave discusses the good and not so good about using Groupon. Read the whole article on the Wall Street Journal website.
Anchorage Symphony
Listen as Sherri Burkhart Reddick, Executive Director of the Anchorage Symphony discusses her role in a dual management organization. Sherri talks about the Symphony’s new 2011-2012 season with some really great shows. You won’t want to miss this local update!
Economics and Alaska
Listen as Dan Robinson, Senior Economist with the McDowell Group, discusses the economies of the performing arts. His thoughts are not what you would expect. Listen to his insights and even the softer side of economics.
In an “Atlas Shrugged” moment, Kingwood, Texas bank Main Street Bank gets out of the banking business because of federal banking regulations. Listen as Dave talks about the frustration of the banks chairman and how they will handle excessive bank regulations. Read the whole article at the Wall Street Journal online.
Alaska Center for the Performing Arts
Listen as Nancy Harbour, Executive Director of the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts talks about the new 2011-2012 season. Nancy tells a story about a fun topic that has a serious economic impact on Anchorage’s community. And they’ve got a new website! Visit it at www.myalaska.com.
Go It Alone
Listen as Geoff Burch, author & business expert, talks about effective selling without the high pressure. Geoff is in rare form and entertaining as always. It’s a delightful (and useful) segment you won’t want to miss!
Small-Business Owners Registering Vote of ‘No Confidence’ in the Federal Government
Bill Dunkelberg, economist says, “Between the deluge of new regulations and a Washington policy agenda that is largely ignorant of Main Street needs, stubbornly low consumer spending, and grave concern among small firms about the federal budget, there is not much to be optimistic about as a small-business owner.” Listen to the Getting Down to Business analysis.
Starting a restaurant with Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar
Chris Pobieglo sitting in for Dave talks with Anchorage entrepreneur Chad Culley one of the founders of Crush Wine Bistro & Cellar talks about starting a restaurant. Listen as Chad talks about employees, team building, customers, the economy, and what wakes him up at 3:00 am. For more information go to www.crushak.com
Go it Alone
Listen as Geoff Burch, bestselling author in business discusses the “Show Business” element in sales from his latest book Irresistible Persuasion.
Mike Heatwole, VP of Public Affairs for The Pebble Partnership, joins Dave and Amanda Cullen to discuss The Pebble Partnership. The Pebble deposit is one of most significant discoveries of copper, gold and molybdenum in the world. With demand for these commodities at an all time high, the economic impact in the billions of dollars, and the creation of thousands of high-paying jobs in a high unemployment area, why does this project have opposition? Mike tells the story from the Partnerships side. Supported by facts and ongoing analysis, Mike also reveals an emotional side to this project. Listen to this fascinating discussion.
Listen as Amanda Cullen, President of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, joins Dave and Mike to discuss marketing The Pebble Project. Amanda is our small business marketing expert, and she brings her own perspective to the challenges of marketing with headwinds.
Main Street Desperately in Search of Reasons to be Positive
NFIB’s monthly Small-Business Optimism Index dropped one tenth of a point (0.1) in June, settling at 90.8, an unsurprising reading, unchanged from the previous month and solidly in recession territory. Read the full article from NFIB, then listen to Dave’s commentary.
Customer Relations Management as a Tool
Techniques are not tools, and Customer Relations Management (CRM) software is a tool to help your sales staff to be more effective. Back when I first started in sales (I sold printing for 18 years), we used 3’ x 5’ client cards, daily sales sheets and weekly sales forms– a manual system designed to track contacts with customers and potential customers. CRM automates the client tracking process and provides much more sales help. Listen as Andre Horton, a Microsoft Dynamics CRM consultant talks about CRM.
Business Risk Management
Do your employees use their personal or business autos during their work day? If so, you may need to have a commercial auto policy to minimize your risk. Listen as Chris Pobeiglo, President of Business Insurance Associates talks about commercial auto insurance. Dind out why your company may need this coverage.
Contractors Survey: New EPA Rule to Increase Costs
Home-renovation businesses expect a federal ruling proposed last month to increase operating costs and dampen sales, according to a recently released survey. This survey is a great example of government regulation impacting small business. Read the full article at the Wall Street Journal blog.
>Entrepreneur takes a leap of faith
What is an entrepreneur? If you said a person who assembles the factors of production, raises capital, organizes management, makes policy decisions, and reaps the gains of success or the losses of failure, you would be correct. The short answer is anyone who risks everything to start a business. Steve Volz, of Alaska Search Marketing, left a good job with a steady paycheck and benefits to pursue the dream of owning his own business. Listen as Steve tells the story of how he took a “leap of faith.”
Marketing Matters
Does your business use email marketing as part of its marketing plan? Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing provides good reasons why you should and “how to do it right.”
In the eyes of the average small business, the U.S. economy is still in a recession and likely to stay that way through 2012. A new survey, commissioned by the U.S. Bancorp one of several reports out in recent weeks painting a more dismal picture for American small businesses than previously perceived. Listen for my recap, and read the full article on the Wall Street Journal site.
How to prepare a business loan package
The American reserve banking system evolved from Goldsmiths. In most early towns, the only vault belonged to the Goldsmith who began holding the valuables and money of others in the community. Today’s bank lending evolved from these practices. Andy Riddell, VP at Wells Fargo talks about the bank’s side of the lending process including explaining the 5 C’s of Credit. Listen to find out the best way prepare a business loan package.
Alaska Economics
The U.S. economy is made up of all the individual state economies. Listen as Dan Robinson, Senior Economist with the McDowell Group discusses the two common beliefs about the relationship between Alaska’s economy and the U.S. economy. ”Historical data doesn’t really support either of those beliefs,” according to Dan. Listen for his view.
Consumer Spending Remains Weak: Small Business Optimism Dips Lower in May.
For the third consecutive month, NFIB’s Small Business Optimism Index fell. The drop was slight—0.3 points, with the index settling at 90.9 in May. The index makes clear that optimism is moving in the wrong direction. The NFIB Research Foundation has collected Small Business Economic Trends data with quarterly surveys since 1974 and monthly surveys since 1986. Survey respondents are drawn from NFIB’s membership.
Lessons from the Seattle Economy
The Seattle economy tanked in the early 1970’s due to a severe economic downturn at Boeing. Thousands of people lost their jobs, and an amusing billboard read “Will the last person leaving SEATTLE – Turn out the lights.” This served as a wakeup call to community leaders and a focus on economic diversity. The Anchorage Economic Development Corporation (AEDC) is leading the way on a project to make Anchorage the number one place to “Work, Live & Play” by 2025. Listen as Bill Popp, President and CEO describes the role and steps his organization is taking to make this a reality.
Business Risk Management
Business insurance expert and president of Business Insurance Associates, Chris Pobieglo tells us about the risk to your business when employees travel both domestically and internationally. As a business owner you really don’t need another risk to consider however, Chris also provides some low cost ways to cover this risk.
Two crucial forms of bank lending that remained stubbornly weak are finally showing signs of life, another indicator that the credit crisis is on the mend. This uptick could help businesses expand and reduce unemployment listen to the summary. Read the full article: “Uptick in Loans Could Aid Business.”
A Wild Ride
An entrepreneur is a person who wants to change the future. Change involves more than talk. The vision must be followed by action. Following that vision is a great risk. There is the risk of failure, a damaged reputation, the loss of time and money. Listen as Dave describes what it took to follow his vision of a professional football team, Alaska Wild, in Anchorage. Contact Dave at david@WaConsult.com.
The US economy is still the largest single-nation economy in the world at $14.2 trillion, as measured by gross domestic product. It is still bigger then the next three largest economies combined. Consider what would happen if we put-the-pedal-to-the-metal economically. Instead of just limping along, we could set the world on fire, and in the words of John F Kennedy, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Listen and find out what grade Dave gives the US economy. Read the full article: Still a Powerhouse.
Effective Co-Branding and the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association began branding itself officially in 1948 with a network radio contest called the “The Walking Man.” Today, the American Heat Association is recognized by 96% of consumers and has a 98% favorable reaction. Listen as Lisa Sauder talks about way to leverage your product with their brand. To contact Lisa, email her at lisa.sauder@heaqrt.org
Marketing Matters
Listen to “Marketing Matters” with marketing expert Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing. Amanda gives us three tips on how to make a good first impression with your marketing.
The Internal Revenue Service is moving aggressively to collect more taxes from small businesses. It is telling companies being audited to turn over exact copies of the electronic records kept in their business-software programs. The IRS wants your QuickBooks files. Read the full Wall Street Journal article.
Business Planning
Success in anything that works well requires vision, dedication, luck and a great plan. Join Dave as he talks about the subject he knows well– “business planning.” A well-written business plan will not guarantee the success of your business start-up, but it will improve the long odds. Listen, as David Weatherholt, you business authority, reveals the art of writing a business plan.
Economics in Alaska
The “Economics Guy” Dan Robinson, Senior Economist for the McDowell Group, discusses gross domestic product and how it impacts your business. Dan and Dave also discuss gross domestic product for the state Alaska. Listen as economic principles become clear and relevant.
The Nation Federation of Independent Business (NIFB) has tracked business optimism since 1976, making this a reliable measurement of business optimism. The month of April marked a second consecutive month of decline in small business optimism. Listen for Dave’s take on the news.
Council of Alaska Producers
San Francisco, Denver and Seattle have much in common. Plenty of social amenities, fine dining, shopping, cultural and arts carters, and professional-level sports teams. They also create lots of jobs with vibrant and diverse economies. When they were fledgling communities, mining gave them a big economic boost. Mining can be a game changer for the Alaska Economy. The Council of Alaska Producers represents large mining companies and tracks their economic impact. Listen, as Mike Satre, Executive Director of the Council discusses their role in Alaska.
Business Risk Management
The “Insurance Guy” Chris Poblieglo of Business Insurance Associates reveals an often overlooked business risk. A company’s employees represent a risk to any business. Managing employment practices and obtaining liability insurance can minimize this business risk. Listen as Chris gives “advice you can use.”
Dave Weatherholt starts off this Getting Down to Business with social-networking sites that link entrepreneurs to pools of money. Security & Exchange Commission (SEC) considers allowing equity stakes on crowd-fund sites. This could be a great source of funding for small businesses, says Dave.
Outcast Productions
Kimberley Gray and Elisa Hitchcock met 14 years ago working on murder mystery dinners and started Outcast Productions, LLC. Today, their part-time business with expanded services is thriving. Listen and learn from their business story.
Go it Alone
Geoff Burch is in rare form on his “Go It Alone” segment. Listen as Geoff gives business advice to Kimberley & Elisa with great wit and witticism guaranteed to make you laugh.
Price of a new suit and gold historically has been the same. Dave talks about his article on the economy and the impact of rising commodity prices. Listen to find out Dave’s current grade on the economy.
90 Days and Counting
The 27th Legislative Session was scheduled to run for 90 days starting January 18th and officially ended on April 17th. Starting on April 18th, the Alaska State Legislature went into special session and while Representative Tuck was originally scheduled to give a session wrap-up he gave an update. Listen to Representative Chris Tuck from HD 29 talk about the session and predict the end of the special session.
Marketing Matters
Amanda Cullen, our small business marketing expert, talks about her passion “Word of Mouth Marketing.” Listen to Amanda’s great tips.
3 Ways to Maintain Positive Cash Flow in a Down Economy
David Weatherholt gives a summary of an article on cash flow– the life blood of a business. Focus on creating annuity revenue is one of the helpful tips. Listen to learn more.
Real Estate Opportunity
It’s no surprise to anyone that the domestic real estate market is in difficulty. Winston Churchill said that an optimist “sees opportunity in every difficulty.” Find out how Dee Thomas and Jeff Greenberg, managing partners in a company called Synergetic Investment Group, LLC, look for opportunity in the real estate market.
Alaska Economics
Dan Robinson, Senior Economist with the McDowell Group, discusses the commercial real estate markets in Alaska.
What 1099 Reporting Rule Repeal Means to Small Business
The comprehensive health care reform bill (ObamaCare) expanded 1099 reporting to include all B2B transactions that exceed $600 per year. Dave talks about the bullet small business owners dodged with the repeal of this provision.
The Cyber Market
Courtney Brooke Smith, Principal of Courtney Brooke Smith, MBA Consulting talks about your business’s Cyber Market. Conversations taking place on social media networks can either build or erode your business. Courtney discusses reasons why you need to understand your “Cyber Market.”
The Index of Small Business Optimism fell again in March. This index has been tracked by the National Federation of Independent Business since 1976, making it a great measure of business optimism. According to the NFIB chief economist, “Today’s recession-level reading is, all in all, a real disappointment.”
Anchorage Tourism Update
Julie Saupe, President, and CEO of the Anchorage Convention & Visitors Bureau joins Dave to talk about the upcoming visitor season in Anchorage. Julie also discusses their volunteer program and its role in assisting visitors by matching them to services and tours.
Business Risk Management
The third segment in our series “Workers Compensation Uncovered,” Chris Poblieglo discusses job classifications and how they can affect your bottom line. Chris also describes three bills now before the Alaska State Legislature: HB-12, 13, and SB-116, and their effect on workers’ compensation in Alaska.
Executive Director of the Food Bank of Alaska Susannah Morgan joins “Getting Down to Business” with David Weatherholt. Learn about Susannah’s journey and about how she came to be involved in hunger issues. Susannah has an MBA from Boston University and reveals the business model of the Food Bank of Alaska.
In the news, learn about the controversial ways one can use to finance a business using a 401(k). Love it or hate it, it’s important information to know.
David Weatherholt has a tasty show for his listeners as he talks the restaurant business with Chef Sal Addonisio, Executive Chef of Sal’s New York Grill and Catering. Chef Sal is a seasoned restauranteur and has lately expanded his catering business, saying his favorite thing about catering, “Is seeing people eating my food, the smiles and head nods while they are enjoying that – working in a restaurant you just don’t get that.” This “Getting Down to Business” is valuable for all aspiring restaurant owners.
Marketing expert Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, joins the show to explain Facebook advertising. She answers the questions, “Should you advertise on Facebook?” and “How do you do it?” If you’ve been thinking about advertising on Facebook, you don’t want to miss this segment!
Oil is a big part of the economy in Alaska. But there are other energy resources that can be developed in Alaska. Ethan Schutt, Senior Vice President of CIRI, talks about Stone Horn Ridge, a company created to commercialize syngas from underground coal gasification (UCG). The Anchorage based joint venture is developing syngas for power generation, ultra-clean liquid fuels and other industrial applications.
Later in the show is our “Business Risk Management” segment with Christopher Pobieglo, CRIS and President of Business Insurance Associates, Inc.Chris joins David to talk worker’s comp. He has great advice for Alaskan businesses on how to manage worker’s compensation insurance and claims.
Barry Matteson, owner of the House of Harley-Davidson in Anchorage, joins David for this entertaining “Getting Down to Business.” William S. Harley completed his drawing of an engine that fit on a bicycle in 1901, and by 1903 he had partnered with Arthur Davidson to create and sell the first motorcycle. Barry started his motorcycle shop in 1971, with a hand-painted sign over the warehouse reading Barry’s Custom Cycle. By 1975, he had gained the Harley-Davidson franchise. Listen to the show to hear how Barry made it in the early years and how he continues his success today.
Sales and entrepreneurial expert Geoff Burch has his segment “Go it Alone” later in the show. And we’d all like to congratulate Geoff for being voted the Business Communicator of 2011 by the U.K.’s Speechwriter’s Guild!
David Weatherholt’s first guest is Nancy Harbour, President of the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. She comes on the show to discuss the business side of the performing arts – the behind the scenes of the behind the scenes. In her final segment, she and David talk about their favorite performances and what’s coming up.
Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in Jungle Marketing, joins the show to give advice on how to provide great customer service even when you have to tell a customer, “No.” She makes this tough marketing challenge understandable.
This “Getting Down to Business,” is devoted to The Entrepreneur, and David is joined by real-life entrepreneur, Kelsey Gray of Azimuth Adventure Photography. Kelsey also wrote the only book on rock climbing in Alaska, titled, appropriately enough, Alaska Rock Climbing Guide. Get inspired and learn a few things as you meet Kelsey, hear his story and how his father started him on the path of entrepreneurialism.
Later in the show, get an Alaska economics update with Dan Robinson, Senior Economist with the McDowell Group. Uncertainty abounds, and Dan and Dave discuss how to handle it.
David Weatherholt wanted to share the complete interview with Alaska Representative Chris Tuck with his listeners. Due to the format constraints of radio, we couldn’t broadcast the entire interview on “Getting Down to Business.” Rep. Tuck informs us about the current Alaska State Legislature session, the bills currently introduced to the floor and shares details about his district.
The interview is 21:16, and well worth the time for anyone interested in an inside look at Alaska governing. And if you want more information on the Alaska State Legislature, visit their website!
Business Insurance Associates‘ founder Chris Pobieglo joins David Weatherholt to tell his interesting story of how he got into the insurance business. He provides crucial information for businesses to know about risk management.
Our resident sales expert Geoff Burch talks about his new book Irresistible Persuasion, and he gives listeners lessons from the early days of door-to-door salesmen. As always, he peppers his tips with plenty of humor.
David Weatherholt explores what it takes to be a young entrepreneur in this entertaining and educational “Getting Down to Business.” Young Grace Higgins became an entrepreneur by raising, showing and selling a pig for 4-H. Along with her cousin Hannah Hutchison, she set out to make a profit by controlling costs, properly caring for her pig and soliciting sponsors. David Weatherholt can attest to Grace’s natural sales ability, as she convinced him to sponsor her. Grace’s father Dale also joins the show to provide moral support and some math help.
Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, takes up the conversation with marketing advice for farms and agriculture businesses. She advises farms to keep their marketing “creative and fun,” with tips on how to start.
This “Getting Down to Business” is David Weatherholt’s inaugural show on Fox News Talk 1020 KOAN. We are excited and pleased to move to this station – and our time slot remains the same, Fridays at 2-3PM.
Café Del Mundo founder Perry Merkel, who has been roasting coffee since 1975, comes on the show to discuss the coffee business, how he got his start and the business environment in Alaska.
Dan Robinson, Sr, a senior economist with the McDowell Group, joins David Weatherholt to explore Alaskan economics (in an interesting way, we promise!). Get a practical education to apply to your business.
Stay tuned for sales and business guru Geoff Burch in his segment for entrepreneurs, “Go it Alone.” As always, Geoff is insightful and entertaining – with a bit of biting wit.
Shaun Debenham, Manager of Acquisitions and Development for Debenham Properties, joins David Weatherholt to inform listeners about the business impact of the Title 21 Rewrite. Don’t know how Title 21 could be affecting your Alaska business? Listen to find out! (Hint: think community aesthetics)
In the news, David has some small business stats from around the world and why entrepreneurialism is growing globally.
Eric Downey of the Alaksa Manufacturing Extension Partnership joins the show to talk about Alaska Manufacturing with David Weatherholt. Eric takes listeners into the world of Alaskan manufacturing – which provides more opportunities than you might think.
David brings us bad economic news, his segment being titled, “Few Businesses Sprout, With Even Fewer Jobs.” Learn what this dearth of innovation might mean for your business and customers.
René Haag, owner of Blaine’s Art Supply joins David Weatherholt on this special rebroadcast of “Getting Down to Business.” Blaine’s Art Supply has been in business for over 50 years, and is one of Anchorage’s most established businesses. René has valuable advice for small businesses on sustaining a business throughout the years.
Our resident sale guru, Geoff Burch, tells listeners how they can get a “yes” with every customer. Geoff knows that an endless stream of “yes” answers are every salesperson’s dream.
David Weatherholt interviews Owen Mandanas, DDS about creating a great smile and the business of dentistry. Owen is passionate about dentistry and running a successful business. Learn how she does it and what advice she has to share.
David takes a look at some economic indicators for small businesses- showing, among other things, that small businesses are lowering their prices and feeling slightly more optimistic. It’s not resoundingly good news, but listen to the show for David’s full analysis.
Later in the show, our favorite Englishman, Geoff Burch, joins us with his segment “Go it Alone.” He has some great sales advice for entrepreneurs. Remember, Geoff has a new book out, Irresistible Persuasion.
David Weatherholt’s guest for this “Getting Down to Business” is Mike Littman, VP of Marketing for Previsor. Previsor is a talent measurement organization, and Mike talks about the importance of pre-employment screening, assessment testing and personality tests. David shares his story of an employee out of control and how disciplined talent measurement would have helped his situation. Learn what steps you can take to hire with precision.
Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, calls in later in the show to assert Marketing is Everything. Or, more accurately stated, everything you do is marketing. Learn how each interaction a customer has with your company builds – or destroys- your brand.
David Weatherholt takes a look at 2010 tourism in Alaska and what this year might mean for next year. Tourism makes up 11% of Alaska’s gross state product and employees about 40,000 people. And most of the tourism businesses in Alaska are small businesses because tourism is an entrepreneur-friendly arena.
Joining him are experts Julie Saupe and James Minton. Julie Saupe is CEO of the Anchorage Convention and Visitor’s Bureau. James Minton is Director of Membership and Communications for the Alaska Tourism Industry Association. As part of the discussion, they explain the 12% bed tax in Anchorage and Fairfax along with transportation taxes and how the measures are indicators of how the Alaskan economy is faring.
To hear how Alaskan tourism fared in 2010, listen or download below:
Why do we live in Alaska? On the show to help David Weatherholt answer this question is Alice Rogoff, publisher of the Alaska Dispatch, co-founder of the Alaska Native Arts Foundation and chairman of Alaska House in New York. David and Alice share their personal journies to Alaska, and we invite you to share yours with us as well.
In the news, David summarizes and explains an article on micro-lending, and how your business might be able to take advantage of it.
And back to business, sales expert Geoff Burch comes on the show to discuss his new book, Irresistible Persuasion. He explores what sales used to be… starting before World War I and going all the way back to the pharaohs.
Keeping good employees requires businesses to stay on top of what are becoming standard employer practices, such as offering 401(k)s. David Weatherholt brings Wells Fargo Relationship Manager Wally Thomas on the show to give advice on developing a 401(k) plan for your employees.
Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing for small business weighs in with marketing tips for this recovery that doesn’t quite feel like one. When marketing money is still tight, how do you grow your business? Listen for her answers.
David Weatherholt brings Scott Hansen and Ace Bube of the Alaska Regional Council of Carpenters onto “Getting Down to Business.” David starts the show with a history of his father’s union experience- receiving medical and retirement benefits from the union instead of his employers. Scott and Ace talk about modern union benefits and things you may not know about unions.
Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing for small business joins the show to discuss marketing for start-up businesses. She and David trade tips and advice to new small businesses that are short on connections and on cash.
David Weatherholt brings onto the show René Haag, owner of Blaine’s Art Supply. The company has been around for over 50 years, and is one of Anchorage’s most established businesses. René has valuable advice for small businesses on sustaining a business throughout the years.
Geoff Burch joins the show with tips on how to get a “yes” every time. As a sales guru, he knows an endless stream of “yes” answers are every salesperson’s dream.
David Weatherholt brings a news story that serves as a legal cautionary tale for startup businesses in the process of choosing a new business name. On a more entertaining note, David describes the characteristics of entrepreneurs and how to avoid some communication pitfalls.
Blair Singer, of Sales Partners Anchorage and author of many books including Little Voice Mastery joins David on the show along with his partner Ryan Hodges. Blair’s book addresses “What you mentally need to win the battle between your ears.” He talks about failures and how they are the most valuable learning experiences.
post Sept. 16 David Weatherholt gives a small business news update and brings Tony Hopfinger to the show. Tony is the Editor and Cofounder of the Alaska Dispatch. This publication is entirely online and provides “news and voices from the last frontier.”
In titling the show “The Trailblazer,” David wants to highlight an aspect of entrepreneurialism. Entrepreneurs see new ways to do things and sometimes invent entirely new products and processes – blazing trails, so to speak.
After his economic news update, David brings Don Cleary Jr. on the show. Don is Vice President of Business Lending for Denali Alaskan Federal Credit Union. They discuss the difference between banks and credit unions – the major difference being that credit unions are not-for-profit. Credit unions are increasingly being opened to the public, and they can be a valuable source of funding for small business.
Sales expert and London resident Geoff Burch joins the show to engage listeners and promote his new book Irresistible Persuasion. Dave has been spreading the word in Anchorage about Geoff’s promise of showing readers “The secret way to get a ‘yes’ every time.”
Interestingly, the book has been selling well in the United States – better than in the U.K. Geoff posits that his country-men just aren’t as hungry for success. His book gets to the heart of sales, persuasion. Geoff says, “You can trace every business failure to someone failing to persuade somebody else to do something.”
This week, “Getting Down to Business” invites the Rage City Rollergirls on the show to give listeners a lesson roller derby. They are hosting their 2010-11 season at the Dena’ina Center.
Learn all about the sport of roller derby from Sarah Impalem and Hurtz Jenerator (aka Angela Ramirez and Jennifer Schober). You might be surprised to learn that even roller derby requires business acumen!
David Weatherholt brings Larry Flowers, Principal Project Manager of the Renewable Energy Alaska Project (REAP), on the show to discuss the renewable energy business in Alaska. Alaska is rich in sources of renewable energy, from large tides in the world to some of the strongest winds. Listen to the show to learn how REAP’s efforts are helping Alaskans.
Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing for small business, joins the show with her segment “Marketing Matters.” She finishes up her five small business marketing rules with tips on how to implement your marketing strategies. She advises, “Keep at it!”
David interviews John A. Letorneau, CPA for his expertise in business sales and succession planning. John is a stockholder of and director for Thomas, Head and Greisen, a leading CPA firm in Anchorage. David and John tell anectodes of successful and failed business sales – and advice for any business considering putting up a For Sale sign.
In the news, David informs of a business that started with the intent to sell and how planning succession early on can make the transition smooth and pain-free.
Republican gubernatorial candidate Bill Walker joins David Weatherholt in his ongoing “Getting Down to Business” series on candidates for Alaska’s governorship. The governor’s office is especially important for small businesses, so David asks how Bill Walker about the relationship between business and government. Bill has a history in small business – and his family’s small business was wiped out by the 1964 earthquake. He also worked with a ministry serving inmates on Death Row and has worked on the Alaska Pipeline.
Listen to the show to learn why Bill is applying for this state job.
David also gives us a news update about angel investors – and the possibility of finding them for free. Open Angels and Angel List are examples of these free services. Angel investors are investors who are looking for start-ups in which to invest.
Regular guest and Member of the Board Geoff Burch joined Dave for this “Getting Down to Business.” We were lucky enough to have Geoff for the whole show, and he didn’t disappoint. He talked a bit about the process of writing his new book and expounded on some tips from his well-known sales book, The Way of the Dog.
David also provides a small business news update, first looking at the small business optimism index. Good news – it’s going up and is higher than it’s been since September 2008! David cheers us that the economy is moving in the right direction, however slowly. And with it, should return Alaska’s tourism business.
Gubernatorial candidate Ethan Berkowitz joins David Weatherholt to explain why he’s running for Alaska’s governorship. Ethan has an interesting business background in alternative energy and brings intellectual answers to David’s questions.
Small business marketing expert Amanda Cullen of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing joins the show later with her segment “Marketing Matters.” She strays a bit from the topic of marketing this week to ask businesses the question, “Where do you want to go?” Before implementing any marketing initiatives, businesses need to secure a solid business strategy. This strategy will make day-to-day decision making more simple and help your business reach success on time.
Have you ever considered how important Malcolm McClain is to Alaska? He invented the idea of using containers for shipping, saving companies untold expenses. David’s guest “the Pallet Guy” has taken container to the next level of innovation – climate control. “The Pallet Guy’s” name is Don Harmond and his product is TEDS Box (tracking environmental deviation).
Don started our repairing pallets for airlines, but the TEDS Box has taken his business to the next level. This product actually actively heats or cools the container, depending on the contents. David asks Don to explain the research and development of this new product, and Don elaborates on the regulations, engineering and building of the TEDS Box. This podcast will be useful for any entrepreneur with an idea for an invention and wants to take it to the next step.
David Weatherholt continues his ongoing series of interviewing candidates for Alaska’s governor primary election with Bob Poe. David has been asking each candidate their views on the relationship between government and small business. Bob emphasizes that he wants to focus on the future of Alaska’s economy. He says, “Jobs equal opportunity, and opportunity equals hope.”
Geoff Burch joins the show with some great sales tips. Dave introduces Geoff with a riddle, “Well, of course we were skint when we first started.” Listen to show to learn what that mysterious phrase is all about. If you’re in a visual mood, you can watch some of Geoff Burch’s sales videos here.
David starts off this “Getting Down to Business” by celebrating his first year on the radio and providing listeners with some great borrowing advice – how to start and maintain a close relationship with a bank.
Later in the show, David brings in two special guests. Russell Ball, founder of ACB Solutions, talks about transitioning his business from Alaska Computer Brokers, a computer retail store, to ACB Solutions, a technology services provider. He and David talk about the evolving marketplace that necessitated this change and share valuable stories and advice for small business owners facing similar situations.
Amanda Cullen, president of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing for small business, elaborates on the importance of keeping your business strategy current with what your customers want. She advocates conducting qualitative research with your customers and gives helpful tips on how to do that.
This “Getting Down to Business” podcast inaugurates a new monthly segment headed by Todd Clark called The IT ProAdvisor. Todd delves into the importance of backing up your data – and the resources required to address this important issue.
David also brings some worrying news about the economy – that the current recession is well-above the average length for post-WWII recessions. Listen to learn what this might mean for your business.
Congressional candidate Sheldon Fisher joined David Weatherholt to discuss how Congress can work with business, including issues concerning energy, balance of trade and the size of government. Things get lively when callers ask some probing questions.
David also talks about the profitability of social media using facts and figures provided by real companies, along with his personal experience with the media.
In this “Getting Down to Business” show, David Weatherholt is joined by a very special guest – Alaska Governor Sean Parnell. They talk about the relationship between business and government. Giving a short history lesson, David emphasizes the importance of government’s limited role in influencing business and its responsibility to ensure business’s freedom to grow and innovate.
Governor Parnell weighs in with the similarities between running a business and running a state. In fact, he owned his own small business for ten years after learning entrepreneurship from his father and understands small business owners’ challenges. Listen to the podcast below for more stories and observations from the governor.
What does that mean- Dancing with Goats? You’ll have to listen to find out! David Weatherholt brings Brad Bigelow, a founder of Kaladi Brother Coffee, to the show to discuss the history of coffee in Anchorage. Brad started his coffee business in the early 1980’s, and he provides interesting insights into the world of an emerging market.
After Dave’s news update about the optimism index, Geoff Burch joins the show with his “Go It Alone” segment. Geoff talks about some of the crazy things entrepreneurs think they need before they can launch their business- and what they should be focusing on instead.
David Weatherholt tells of his audit woes and talks marketing in this episode of “Getting Down to Business.” Even an accounting expert may be on the receiving end of an audit- Dave gives advice to small businesses on how to survive audits in this surprisingly entertaining segment.
Later in the show Dave is joined by Amanda Cullen founder of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, who specializes in small business marketing. Amanda gives her 5 rules for small business marketing and delivers a pop quiz to listeners, challenging them to put their business to the test. Here are the rules:
Be easy to do business with.
Communicate with your customers in ways that are meaningful to them.
Know where you want to go.
Involve your team.
Keep at it.
Listen or download below to take the test and see how your business stacks up!
Dave Weatherholt brings photographer and owner of Alaska Stock Images, Jeff Schultz, onto the show today. Jeff talks about the exciting life of being a photographer with his own business.
Dave starts the show with the questions, “What makes a good employee?” and reports on an innovative article to help small businesses know their hiring practices will ensure they recruit great employees.
Dave Weatherholt introduces the topic of “business risk.” He explains there are many aspects to risk, and not all of it is bad (he gives the example of Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop not having enough bread to sell to its many customers). Dave gives small businesses tools and concepts to help them deal with and minimize business risk. Todd Clark, founder and president of DenaliTEK, started his new IT update segment in this “Getting Down to Business” podcast.
Ron Peck, president and COO of Alaska Travel Industry Association, joins Dave on “Getting Down to Business” to talk about marketing Alaska. Dave starts out the show with a small business and tourism update. Ron has worked in the travel industry for 32 years and brings much experience to the conversation. He reveals a surprising fact- that travel and tourism companies in Alaska are largely small businesses. 92% of ATIA’s membership are businesses with 50 or fewer employees.
Later in the show, Geoff Burch, international consultant, calls in. He is the author of Go It Alone, a great book for those with an entrepreneurial spirit. Geoff talks about the classic Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance and how it applies to those who have recently been laid off or are looking for a way to be self-employed.
Dave interviews the owners of Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop, Jerry Lewanski and Janis Fleischman. The couple opened their bakeshop less than a year ago and share their interesting startup story. They started by completing thorough research, traveling around the United States and visiting successful bakeries. The only thing they didn’t plan for was their immediate success!
Amanda Cullen, small business marketing consultant, joins the group to give startup businesses advice on marketing their fledgling businesses. Marketing for small businesses doesn’t have to involve a large budget, and most of the time, the most effective marketing is quite economical.
Julie Saupe, CEO of the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau, joins the show to give a tourism update for Anchorage. They talk about the 30-year history of the ACVB. While last year was the first year tourism declined in Anchorage, Julie is hopeful for the future. She shares her community report with listeners, and what that will mean for Anchorage tourism.
Dave’s second guest is Sam Dickey, Deputy District Director of the Small Business Administration. SBA programs are changing, and Sam has the details. He is hopeful that Congress will keep funding some programs, but deadlines for stimulus money have passed. They discuss trends and facts related to small business lending and what this could mean for your small business.
Lori Davey, owner of Motznik Information Services, joins Dave Weatherholt to talk about buying a used (or existing) business. Lori purchased Motznik and tells listeners the story of the purchase process. She starts out by letting us know, “I sold my airplane to buy my business.”
Dave also talks about how your vendors can help with your financing. For many small businesses, borrowing has become increasingly difficult. Some have developed creative means of raising capital, and Dave has the details.
Non-profit organizations perform many necessary functions in our communities, but they face many unique business challenges, as well. Dave’s first guest is Candace Winkler, CEO of Thread, an Anchorage-based non-profit. They discuss some of the business aspects non-profits focus on more than other organizations, such as having a transparent accounting system, keeping administrative costs reasonable and keeping a strict budget. Candace also talks about her experience in rebranding Thread (formerly Child Care Connection), and the wide variety of non-profits that are in Alaska.
In the next segment, Dave brings in Jason Stralka to discuss taxes for non-profits and answer listener questions. Jason is a tax expert for Carter Tax, Inc. Dave discovers that he has a passion for taxes. Jason knows that taxes are more than just filling out the forms– he loves finding loopholes and saving his clients money. However, he realizes the importance of being accurate and paying all the taxes that are due to the IRS.
Joining the show this week is Todd Clark, founder and president of DenaliTEK, one of the leading IT services firms in Anchorage. He and Dave delve into the concept of cloud computing and how it can help your small business. Revolutions in the the IT industry come and go, but cloud computing is an innovative way to increase efficiency and manage budgets in your organization.
Todd also discusses some of the business issues he faces: why he develops client relationships, what DenaliTEK does to keep clients and how they handle losing a client. All small business owners can learn from his candid assessment.
Dave and Geoff Burch, author and international guru, launched a new segment of “Getting Down to Business” called Going it Alone. In his trademark cheeky manner, Geoff encourages entrepreneurs to go out and make it alone. He says of employment, “Who was the first caveman who got another caveman to go out and kill a buffalo for him, then just give him a tiny piece of the buffalo as a wage? When did that start?”
Dave interviews Andy Riddell, VP and Business Banking Manager at Wells Fargo Bank. The discuss how important it is for a small business to develop a relationship with a bank. Andy provides advice for how to reach the business expert at your bank and how to start the relationship.
In Dave’s news update, he talks about Congress’s recent changes to the SBA loan program and other stimulus package details affecting small businesses. There might be good news for small businesses struggling to obtain loans.
Pamela Marsch joins Dave Weatherholt in this “Getting Down to Business” to discuss tips for buying and leasing commercial real estate. She is a commercial real estate broker with vast experience in Alaska’s real estate market.
Dave shares his personal experience with commercial real estate and hopes his listeners can learn from his less-than-ideal experience.
Dave also weighs in with his news update, bringing to light some useful business stories.
Sponsored by DenaliTEK, an Anchorage-based information technology services firm.
Kathy Day of KD/PR | A Virtual Agency joins Dave Weatherholt to talk about public relations, and how good PR can benefit your business. Kathy explains how we can go beyond thinking of PR as “free advertising,” and truly maximize its potential. Dave tells us of his own success with PR– and just how much exposure it can generate.
Dave gives us an economic update, talking about interest rates, historical data and what this information means for us today. He addresses a question important to all of us, “Are consumers ready to buy?”
In this first “Getting Down to Business” of 2010, Dave interviews Todd Clark, founder of DenakiTEK, an Anchorage-based IT-maintenance, consulting and technology firm. Todd started the company nine years ago and discusses the road he’s taken to success.
Todd credits a great mission and vision statement with the successful growth of his company. Amanda Cullen, of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing for Small Business, joins the show and discusses how to create mission and visions statements that are effective for the organization along with how to use them as marketing tools.
Dave also gives a news update for small businesses, including tips for how to make your website great.
Dave Weatherholt interviews Kim and Blain Roberts, owners of Westport Winery in Aberdeen, WA. They are passionate about what they do and have built a successful small business. Listen for their advice for other aspiring entrepreneurs.
Accountant Paul Foutz joins the conversation and makes projections for the Alaskan economy. He predicts what businesses can expect in the coming year. This episode of “Getting Down to Business” will be valuable to any small business owner.
Dave talks project management principles with Dan Maxwell, Technical Project Manager for Structured Communication Systems, Inc. They give listeners advice for “doing it right” – by defining “project”, analyzing risk analysis and discussing technology solutions. Dan sets forth an alarming statistic that 80% of projects fail– don’t let yours be one of them!
Dave also gives a business and economic news update by analyzing the Optimism Index over the course of the year.
In this week’s “Getting Down to Business,” Dave talks with IT expert Mark Mathis of Arctic Information Technology about Cloud Computing. Mark helps us understand what Cloud Computing is, how long it has been around and how small businesses can use it to reduce their IT costs. This useful technology is familiar to many businesses through companies such as Carbonite and Go To Meeting.
Dave also talks with Amanda Cullen about 2009’s Black Friday. They talk about the history of Black Friday, how performance was this year and the changing attitudes of consumers. Amanda, of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, explains how these factors affect small business retailers.
Entrepreneurs Sydney Mitchell Dawn Walsh talk with David Weatherholt about their venture: a shoe store for women who love shoes beyond reason. Their store, Shoefly + Hudsons, is in Juneau, AK and appeals to shoe lovers in many creative ways– including hosting private parties.
David also talks economic news, using his experience dealing with recessions to encourage businesses. Paul Foutz joins David later in the show to discuss the Alaskan economy and what’s ahead in the coming year.
David Weatherholt brings on the top franchisors in the state of Alaska: Jerry Kinn, owner of the Carl’s Jr. franchise and Michael Davidson, owner of 18 McDonald’s franchises to talk about the business of franchise.
These friendly competitors discuss the top ten franchise businesses, the benefits of franchising and the changing face of the franchisor.
Is franchising a good fit for your entrepreneurial spirit? How do you get started in franchising? Listen to find out!
David Weatherholt talks with Dan Sullivan, Mayor of Anchorage, about the relationship between government and small business. Throughout the decades, government regulation has been pilloried, but without some key legislation, our business environment would be unstable, recessions would be less predictable and small businesses would find it difficult to thrive.
Dan Sullivan shares his business background and the similarities between running a business and a municipal government.
Later in the show, Amanda Cullen, of Zoo in a Jungle Marketing, explains relationship marketing and how small businesses can develop strategies to build relationships with their customers. Strong customer relationships lead to stronger loyalty, more numerous customer referrals and higher profits.
On his radio show “Getting Down to Business,” David Weatherholt talks with Bob Poe, gubernatorial candidate for Alaska. Poe discusses his views on the relationship between government and small business– what it looks like currently and what he thinks it should be. This is a great opportunity for small businesses in Alaska to hear the candidate talk about issues affecting their livelihoods.
Also, David speaks with the deputy director of the SBA about the changes enacted last week by the SBA program. Finally, David introduces the show with a history of recessions, how government intervention has helped or hurt the economy and why we no longer call them “economic panics.”
All considered, this episode of “Getting Down to Business” is full of essential knowledge for small businesses.
David provides an economic update, relaying to listeners some good news for the economy.
Guest Robert McDowell, Vice President of Information Worker Business Value for Microsoft, provides valuable advice for businesses looking to generate a better return on their technology investments. These IT investments include hardware, software and personnel. He discusses how Microsoft works with other vendors to create efficient business solutions.
Having a great strategy is only the first step of a successful business. Dave’s show this week is about putting legs on your strategy and giving you tips for effective implementation.
What is social networking? Does your small business need it?
Dave finds out what his Facebook page and Twitter account really mean. His guest, Mindy O’Neill, is the Director of Integrated Marketing for news magazine Alaska Dispatch. She imparts her social media expertise to Dave’s listeners (and Dave himself!).
In the news, Dave talks about the credit crisis still plaguing small businesses, even while larger businesses see credit loosening. Dave’s moved “Getting Down to Business” over to station 1080 KUDO, and he’s excited for the new opportunities this station provides.
Dave reminisces about the business world of the 1980s, where the most technology a business encountered was a fax machine. As we all know, things have changed, and now information technology is required for every business venture.
In this week’s “Getting Down to Business,” Dave talks with IT expert Mark Mathis of Arctic Information Technology who will help you determine if your business needs a server. And what is a server, anyway?
In the news, Dave highlights the optimism index and forecasts some sign of recovery on the horizon.
The recession is finally heading towards Alaska, but Dave doesn’t want you to be pessimistic. He wants you to be prepared. To help you with that, he provides advice on cutting expenses and unnecessary costs in your business.
Small business and labor have both been instrumental in building America’s success, and Dave takes the Labor Day Weekend episode of “Getting Down to Business” to explore the partnership between the them.
Dave’s guest, Paul Foutz, a walking encyclopedia of business information, shared important labor statistics with Dave and his listeners (appropriate for Labor Day Weekend, don’t you think?)
Dave calls on all “Getting Down to Business” listeners to devote some time to long-term business planning. And, of course, he gives them advice and tools to plan effectively. Gerhard Vierthaler with Value Strategy Group explains the SWOT analysis to Dave’s listeners. SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats and is a long-term planning analysis tool.
Long term planning becomes especially important during a recession. So, pull up a chair and let Dave give you Advice You Can Use.
In this week’s “Getting Down to Business,” Dave continues discussing marketing by focusing on sales strategy for small business. His guest, Gerhard Vierthaler with Value Strategy Group, provides valuable cold-calling advice and encouragement in developing a small business sales strategy.
Dave also tells us the story of the founder of the Geek Squad, an entrepreneur who started the company with $600. As we all know, now Best Buy owns the Geek Squad.
The three talk about simple and innovative steps small businesses can take to advertise and promote their businesses. They also debate the benefits and drawbacks of low-cost positioning and why it’s not always a good idea to discount your products in a down economy.
They explain the 4-P’s of marketing (Product, Price, Place and Promotion) and how to integrate new marketing strategies into this classic categorization.
When you borrow money, there is a risk involved. Dave evaluates the risk to you and to the bank– and how these risks will affect your business. Everyone knows the cost of interest involved, but there are other costs and risks associated with borrowing that all businesses need to be aware of. He reminds businesses they need to, “Buy low. Sell high, and Keep the difference.”
Financial ratios sound intimidating, but Dave reassures listeners that it’s just, “Looking at the story behind the numbers.” After his regular news update, Dave helps Sunburst Coffee learn the importance of industry standards, ratios and other financial concepts. Dave makes these tools easy to understand and apply to your business.
Dave believes the market analysis is the most important part of the business plan. He tells listeners what they need to include, what banks are looking for and what they need to know to ensure success.
Banks aren’t the enemy of small business, as Dave proves in this “Getting Down to Business” podcast. Dave takes listeners through the history of banking and how you can negotiate with them successfully for your business.
Relevant to today’s topic, Dave interviews Andrew Riddell, Vice President Business Banking Manager at Wells Fargo.
In this wrap-up of the “Getting Down to Business” series on crafting a business plan, Dave Weatherholt gives listeners his final advice and tips for an effective business plan.
Dave’s guest on “Getting Down to Business” is Sam Dickey, Deputy District Director for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) who informs Dave’s listeners of the changes (some of them extensive) to the SBA. Some changes make it easier for small businesses to refinance loans.
And to help small businesses get their loans, Dave delves even deeper into the business plan for Sunburst Coffee. This podcast, he details the needs for the management team section and why it matters.
For Independence Day, Dave spoke about some of his favorite American entrepreneurs and small business people. Then, some breaking news surprised everyone that the state’s governor, Sarah Palin, would be resigning from office in two weeks. Dave and his producer Kathy react to the news with analysis of what this means for Alaska.
Preparing financial projections is often a difficult of scary process for new businesses. However, if you’re serious about your business venture, it is time well spent. While 95% of startup businesses fail in the first 5 years, Dave will walk you through the steps needed to plan ahead and be successful.
The bulk of the show is devoted to the financial projections of fictional Sunburst Coffee, Limited. The scenario: Dave is Anchorage’s best barista and wants to bring his blends to the city. But there are so many questions. How many customers do we need? When will we break even? Where will the money come from? Where should we locate the business?
Dave also talks about the entrepreneurial spirit, the need for a business plan and the importance of balancing the free spirit of the former with the orderliness and planning of the latter.
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Charles Lindemuth, painter, illustrator, innovator and entrepreneur visits Getting Down to Business® and talks about how he makes a living as a fine arts painter. Moving from canvas and brush to a digital art form was a natural step for Charles. Listen as he talks about that process and some of his creations such as “mepainter.”
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Techniques are not tools, and Customer Relations Management (CRM) software is a tool to help your sales staff to be more effective. Back when I first started in sales (I sold printing for 18 years), we used 3’ x 5’ client cards, daily sales sheets and weekly sales forms– a manual system designed to track contacts with customers and potential customers. CRM automates the client tracking process and provides much more sales help. Listen as 
The Seattle economy tanked in the early 1970’s due to a severe economic downturn at Boeing. Thousands of people lost their jobs, and an amusing billboard read “Will the last person leaving SEATTLE – Turn out the lights.” This served as a wakeup call to community leaders and a focus on economic diversity. The 
An entrepreneur is a person who wants to change the future. Change involves more than talk. The vision must be followed by action. Following that vision is a great risk. There is the risk of failure, a damaged reputation, the loss of time and money. Listen as Dave describes what it took to follow his vision of a professional football team, Alaska Wild, in Anchorage. Contact Dave at 
The American Heart Association began branding itself officially in 1948 with a network radio contest called the “The Walking Man.” Today, the American Heat Association is recognized by 96% of consumers and has a 98% favorable reaction. Listen as Lisa Sauder talks about way to leverage your product with their brand. To contact Lisa, email her at 
Success in anything that works well requires vision, dedication, luck and a great plan. Join Dave as he talks about the subject he knows well– “business planning.” A well-written business plan will not guarantee the success of your business start-up, but it will improve the long odds. Listen, as David Weatherholt, you business authority, reveals the art of writing a business plan.
David Weatherholt wanted to share the complete interview with Alaska Representative Chris Tuck with his listeners. Due to the format constraints of radio, we couldn’t broadcast the entire interview on “Getting Down to Business.” Rep. Tuck informs us about the current Alaska State Legislature session, the bills currently introduced to the floor and shares details about his district.
David Weatherholt brings on the top franchisors in the state of Alaska: Jerry Kinn, owner of the 
These friendly competitors discuss the top ten franchise businesses, the benefits of franchising and the changing face of the franchisor.
David Weatherholt talks with Dan Sullivan, Mayor of Anchorage, about the relationship between government and small business. Throughout the decades, government regulation has been pilloried, but without some key legislation, our business environment would be unstable, recessions would be less predictable and small businesses would find it difficult to thrive.
Banks aren’t the enemy of small business, as Dave proves in this “Getting Down to Business” podcast. Dave takes listeners through the history of banking and how you can negotiate with them successfully for your business.
