Podcast
Locally Owned
Hosted by The Street Smart Entrepreneur · EN
Welcome to Locally Owned — We are the go-to podcast for small and medium-sized business (SMB) owners who want to master the art of goal setting and turn their visions into reality. Each episode dives into actionable strategies for achieving success, featuring interviews with real SMB owners who are in the trenches, getting it done. What makes us different is that we bring real local business owners to the show who are prepared to share stories of their business journey. You will hear real events and situations that they figured out how to overcome and thrive. Strategies that work for Fortune 500 companies are not actionable for local businesses. When you listen to an episode, you will learn how to set goals, implement effective business strategies, and overcome obstacles, stay motivated, and build bigger goals helping you reach your dream company. None of the ideas and strategies expressed here are out of reach to the local business owner. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this podcast is packed with practical advice to help you achieve your goals.
32episodes
Episodes
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Ep: 32 The 4 Best Habit Building Hacks
Mar 1000:15:22Summary readyBuild Habits That Stick: Start Small, Stack, Schedule & Track (Locally Owned)In this episode of Locally Owned, the host explains that motivation may start goals, but habits determine results, sharing a personal trick for getting back to the gym by giving himself permission to do just one rep. He argues the best way to build habits is to start ridiculously small, then grow consistency over time, applying the approach to business tasks like cold calling. He breaks down how habits form through cue, craving, response, and reward, and shows how awareness of what you’re really craving can help replace bad responses with better ones. Key strategies include scheduling habits on the calendar, habit stacking, redesigning your environment to change cues, pairing “need to do” tasks with “want to do” rewards, and tracking progress. He closes by linking habits to a bigger life vision using his SHARING template and offers a 12-module course with three free modules at yourgoalmind.net.00:00 Falling Off the Gym01:20 Habits Beat Motivation02:56 Start Ridiculously Small03:55 Small Habits in Business04:44 The Habit Loop Explained05:54 Craving the Real Reward07:25 Schedule Your Habits08:44 Habit Stacking Chains09:48 Design Your Environment10:54 Temptation Bundling11:32 Track Progress for Motivation12:57 Connect Habits to Vision13:23 Sharing Template and Course14:48 Final Wrap UpMy Email: dave.p@yourgoalmind.comyourgoalmind.net
SummaryEp 31 The Lies We Believe About Why We Can't Achieve Our Goals
Feb 1400:12:18Summary ready6 Goal-Setting Myths Holding You Back (and the System That Actually Works) | Locally OwnedIn this episode of Locally Owned, the host breaks down six common myths that prevent people—especially small business owners—from achieving their goals and explains that success is driven by a clear vision and a repeatable system, not personality, luck, or constant motivation. The myths addressed are: goal setting is only for high achievers; failure means you shouldn’t try; people can be successful without goals; free information is enough so a course isn’t needed; goals require extreme discipline; and motivation must come before action. Using analogies like driving to California, using a GPS instead of a compass, and climbing Mount Everest, the host argues that failure is part of learning, progress creates motivation, and consistency with boring, repeatable actions is what produces results. The episode also includes a promotion for an online goal-setting website and course the host is building based on the system used to grow, scale, and sell a company and to train employees, featuring tools, exercises, community support, weekly live Q&A, and workshop-style cohorts; the first three modules are offered free via yougoalmind.com. The episode closes by emphasizing that the goal is not just to achieve more, but to become more of who you are created to be, and encourages listeners to start taking small steps immediately.00:00 6 Goal-Setting Myths That Keep You Stuck (Intro)00:58 Myth #1: Goal Setting Isn’t Just for “High Achievers”02:10 Myth #2: “What If I Fail?” — Why Failure Is Part of the Process03:30 Myth #3: Success Without Goals Can Cost You Everything05:12 Myth #4: Free Info Isn’t Enough — You Need a System (and a Guide)06:02 Course + Community: YourGoalMind.com (Quick Break)08:35 Back to the Myths: Myth #5 Discipline vs. Boring Consistency09:20 Myth #6: Motivation Is Unreliable—Action Creates Motivation10:25 The Real Truth: Clarity + Systems + Small Steps (Wrap-Up)11:45 Final Thanks & Sign-Off
SummaryEp 30. The Hidden Power Of Likability
Feb 900:21:07Summary readyThe Hidden Power of Likability in Business Success: Build Trust & LoyaltyIn this episode of 'Locally Owned,' we explore the concept of likability in business, emphasizing its role in building trust and customer loyalty. Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, we illustrate how being easy to work with, trustworthy, and communicative can enhance customer relationships and increase long-term business value. Discover actionable tips on creating rapport, being reliable, and making your business easy to engage with, ultimately driving repeat business and referrals. Learn why likability, though not on your balance sheet, might be your business's most valuable asset.00:00 Introduction: The Power of Likability in Business00:49 A Lesson in Likability: The Dripping Equipment Story03:36 Building Rapport: The Key to Business Success06:42 The Formula for Building Trust and Likability08:52 Practical Tips for Enhancing Customer Experience15:49 The Importance of Integrity in Business16:51 Conclusion: Creating Long-Term Business Value
SummaryEp 29 From 0 - 35 Clients a Week:How Austin Kirby Built His Dryer Vent Cleaning Business
Jan 2900:44:24Summary readyHow Austin Kirby Built a Successful Dryer Vent Cleaning Business From Scratch | Unveil Your True PurposeWelcome to another episode of Locally Owned! Today, we dive into the inspirational journey of Austin Kirby, a hands-on entrepreneur who built a successful dryer vent cleaning business from scratch. Discover how a scripture from Jeremiah and a rejection of the nine-to-five hamster wheel propelled Austin towards his entrepreneurial dream. Follow Austin’s story from his early struggles and failed attempts to find a fit, to his eventual success with Kirby Dryer Vent Cleaning. Learn how his faith, attention to detail, and quality customer service turned a bucket and a snake brush into a thriving business. Timestamp your way through pivotal moments and entrepreneurial insights that any aspiring business owner can learn from. Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction of Austin Kirby 02:15 - Early Life and Rejecting the Hamster Wheel 04:30 - The Significance of Jeremiah 1:5 08:25 - Realization at Safe Flight and Anthony’s Car Wash 15:50 - Low Point at Steel City Pops 19:34 - Finding Success and Purpose 28:45 - Launching Kirby Dryer Vent Cleaning 35:53 - First Client and Initial Success 42:14 - Ongoing Business Growth 52:30 - Quality and Customer Service 01:03:50 - Future Plans and Business Philosophy 01:10:55 - Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursDon't miss this inspiring episode about entrepreneurship, faith, and finding your true purpose!00:00 Introduction to Austin Kirby00:26 Early Life and Inspiration04:08 Struggles and Realizations07:14 Turning Points and Small Wins14:57 The Birth of an Entrepreneur21:22 Building the Business22:48 The Importance of Faith and Integrity23:20 Attention to Detail and Client Care26:30 Overcoming Challenges and Building Success27:50 Future Plans and Business Growth29:38 Balancing Growth and Quality of Life36:24 The Power of Customer Service40:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
SummaryEp. 28 How Private Equity Firms Work: The Story of Jon-Don
Dec 1200:21:12Summary readyEver wondered how a private equity firm works. This is a real life story of a family owned business that that grew to become a nationally recognized brand, was bought by a private equity firm and collapsed over night! In this episode of 'Locally Owned,' we explore the inspiring story of Dominic (Nick) and Jon Paella, who started Jon-Don, a revolutionary janitorial supply company, from their suburban Chicago garage in 1978. Discover how they built a national brand based on treating customers like family and stood by small contractors for decades. Learn how private equity firm Incline Equity Partners acquired Jon-Don in 2021, employing risky financial strategies that ultimately led to the company's bankruptcy by 2025. This narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the impact of high-risk financial maneuvers and the stark differences between customer-driven values and profit-driven imperatives.00:00 The Dream Begins: Founding Jon-Don00:58 Building a Legacy: Nick and Jon's Journey01:53 A Customer's Perspective: The Jon-Don Experience08:36 The Private Equity Takeover10:13 The Downfall: Financial Missteps and Bankruptcy15:07 Lessons Learned: The Impact of Private Equity17:06 Conclusion: Preserving the Legacy
SummaryEp 27 How a Former Tesla & Uber Innovator is Bringing AI to Local Small Businesses
Oct 201:14:28Summary readyHow AI Is Revolutionizing Main Street: Zeb Dawson on Sales, Marketing & Small Business GrowthWhat if your small business had an inside sales rep who never missed a call, booked jobs 24/7, followed up with every lead, and talked to customers exactly the way you would? In this episode of Locally Owned, I sit down with Zeb Dawson, founder of Happy Path Marketing, to explore how AI technology is transforming Main Street businesses.Zeb shares his journey from working at Tesla, Uber, and Motional to launching AI-powered tools that help local businesses grow, automate, and thrive. We discuss: ✅ How AI can answer calls, book appointments, and qualify leads ✅ Why follow-up automation is the key to more sales ✅ The danger of DIY thinking in small business marketing ✅ Building “trust bridges” with customers using technology ✅ Lessons from big tech that every small business owner can useIf you’re a local business owner looking to scale, systematize, and grow with AI, this episode is packed with insights and practical takeaways.00:00 – AI Sales Rep That Never Sleeps – Zeb’s vision for Main Street businesses using AI to handle calls, bookings, and follow-ups. 02:00 – Early Entrepreneurial Journey – From rock tumblers to PC repair: how Zeb’s curiosity shaped his career. 12:30 – Lessons from Tesla & Uber – What big tech taught him about scaling, leadership, and customer service. 28:30 – Building Trust Bridges – Why relationships + AI are the future of small business growth. 46:00 – Happy Path Marketing & AI CRM – How Zeb helps small business owners automate follow-ups and never miss a lead.
SummaryEp 26 How To Build A Brand That People Instantly Trust
Sep 1600:24:44Summary readyIn this video, we delve deep into the concept of branding, explaining why it's more than just a logo or color palette. The essence of a brand is the story consumers tell themselves about your product and reputation. Using a detailed example of Joe's journey with his salsa business, we explore the three stages of branding: Stage 1 where the owner is the brand, Stage 2 where the product becomes the brand, and Stage 3 where reputation is key. Discover the psychological factors behind each stage and actionable strategies to build, nurture, and protect your brand trust as your business scales. Watch to learn how Joe transitioned from local farmer's markets to national shelves and how you can apply these principles to your own branding efforts.00:00 Introduction to Branding00:38 Defining Branding: Beyond Logos and Colors02:05 The Three Stages of Branding03:00 Stage One: The Owner as the Brand08:46 Stage Two: The Product as the Brand13:38 Stage Three: Reputation and Trust20:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFREE Online Business Readiness Assessment Link: https://yourgoalmind.com/meet-dave-pastorMy Calendar: My calendar link: https://calendly.com/dpastor-streetsm...
SummaryEp 25 How To Make Your Personality Your Brand
Aug 2901:11:40Summary readyHow to Make Your Personality Your BrandIn this episode of 'Locally Owned,' host Dave interviews Johnny Juan Ortiz, a dynamic speaker, community leader, and founder of Fun Life Coaching. With decades of experience in mortgage lending, real estate coaching, and community leadership, Johnny shares how his charisma and faith-driven approach to business have fueled his success. From his early days working in a restaurant to launching coaching communities and becoming a certified Ziglar Legacy coach, Johnny provides valuable insights on turning personality into a powerful brand. Tune in to hear Johnny's journey, his strategies for sales success, and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.00:00 Introduction to Johnny Juan Ortiz01:51 Johnny's Early Life and Career Beginnings03:46 From Serving Tables to Sales Success05:53 Transition to Timeshare and Commission Sales08:45 Mastering the Art of Likability in Sales16:53 Journey into Real Estate and Mortgage Lending23:23 The Value of Coaching and Mentorship32:00 Overcoming the Fear of Charging for Services32:37 Building Confidence Through Success36:56 The Importance of Self-Belief and Leadership39:44 Connecting with Your Future Self49:12 The Role of Faith in Achieving Success54:02 The Value of Coaching and Certification01:03:38 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
SummaryEp 24 5 Mindset Shifts That Lead To More Profit, Value, & Freedom!
Aug 1900:35:52Summary readyThe 5 Mindset Shifts to More Profit, Freedom and ValueIn this episode, the host returns after a two-month hiatus to discuss the significant shifts needed to make a small business more profitable, easier to manage, and ultimately more valuable for a future sale. After sharing personal experiences related to moving and converting a townhome into a rental property, the host dives into the five crucial mindset shifts every business owner should adopt. These include transitioning from an owner-dependent to an owner-optional business model, creating documented systems instead of relying on verbal instructions, gaining financial clarity rather than relying on gut feelings, fostering an empowered team instead of just having employees, and focusing on generating recurring revenue to lower business risk. These shifts not only prepare a business for a lucrative sale but also make it more profitable and functional in the now. The episode is packed with actionable insights and concludes with an offer for a free business assessment to help owners identify their most significant gaps and create a 12-month action plan.00:00 Welcome Back and Personal Updates01:02 New Business Focus: Helping Small Business Owners02:43 Mindset Shift #1: From Owner-Dependent to Owner-Optional10:46 Mindset Shift #2: From Verbal Instructions to Documented Systems17:44 Mindset Shift #3: From Gut Feel to Financial Clarity22:59 Mindset Shift #4: From Employees to an Empowered Team28:24 Mindset Shift #5: From Risky to Recurring Revenue32:34 Conclusion and Free Assessment Offer
SummaryEp 23 Scaling Isn't Always the Answer: Miranda Gwilliam's Intuitive Business Journey
Jun 401:07:27Summary readyWhat if scaling your business isn't the only path to success? Join us in today's episode of 'Locally Owned' as we dive deep with Miranda Gwilliam, entrepreneur, intuitive business guide, and founder of Manifest Mountains. Miranda's unique approach defies conventional wisdom by integrating mindset work, intuition, and alignment into her business strategy. Discover how she transitioned from running a successful rug cleaning business with her husband to becoming a mentor for others seeking to manifest a business that truly fits their soul. 🌟 Learn about key moments in her journey, the power of giving yourself permission, and the importance of aligning your business with your personal values. Whether you're a small business owner or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration that could transform your approach to growth and success. Don't miss out! 🔥 #BusinessGrowth #IntuitiveBusiness #ManifestMountains #LocallyOwnedPodcast #SmallBusinessSuccess #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessAlignment00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Business Growth00:42 Meet Miranda Gwilliam: From Carpet Cleaning to Mentorship02:50 The Journey Begins: Building a Business with Family06:45 Taking Ownership: A Pivotal Moment14:52 The Birth of Manifest Mountain19:42 Scaling vs. Niching Down: Finding the Right Path23:15 Intuitive Business Coaching: A New Venture32:40 Hybrid Sessions: Strategy and Energetics34:27 Embracing Spirituality in Business37:27 The Role of Intuition in Business38:35 Developing Online Courses and Private Programs41:46 The Importance of Permission and Self-Belief49:06 Navigating Client Journeys and Success Stories55:57 Aligning Online Presence with Business Goals01:00:40 Intrinsic Motivation and Intuition01:02:57 Connecting with Miranda01:04:49 Final Thoughts and Takeawayshttps://manifestmountains.com/homehttps://www.instagram.com/manifestingwithmiranda/To get in touch with me, Dave Pastor please email me at: dpastor@streetsmartentrepreneurship.biz
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