Welcome to

Getting Started in Business

From creating a business plan to navigating the first steps of entrepreneurship, our articles offer practical advice and inspiration, encouragement, and actionable strategies to help you start strong. Take the first step toward achieving your business dreams today!

Turning Passion intoProfit –

Turning Passion intoProfit –

Turning Passion into Profit – Transforming Your Hobby into a Thriving Business Many dream of turning their beloved hobby into a flourishing business, but the transition from leisure pursuit to profitable venture requires strategic planning, dedication, and a leap of faith. Whether it’s crafting, baking, writing, or any other passion, here’s a roadmap to guide […]

Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – 

Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – 

Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – A Beginner’s Guide to Freelance Marketing Gone are the days of the chained-to-your-desk, fluorescent-lit office grind. Today, the world of marketing is brimming with opportunity for the adventurous souls who crave flexible hours, unlimited coffee breaks, and the thrill of being their own boss. Welcome to the exciting realm […]

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business – What gives you an almost unfair advantage…   Face it, today’s business owners have more resources than ever to model, launch, create profits, scale, and create a legacy for decades.  So why do small business closures rates continue to grow? I look to an Indiana Jones movie line “choose wisely” as […]

Baking Up Sweet Success –

Baking Up Sweet Success –

Baking Up Sweet Success – Amanda Garman’s Journey to Confection Perfection In the quaint kitchen of Mini Snack Confections, a home-based bakery, the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. This cozy space is the heart of Amanda Garman’s thriving business, a dream turned reality born from her desire to balance work and family […]

Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business

Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business

Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business In the world of entrepreneurship, a crucial aspect often overlooked is liability insurance. It’s the invisible shield protecting businesses from potential financial disasters caused by unforeseen circumstances. Whether you’re a budding startup or an established enterprise, comprehending the essence of liability insurance is imperative to safeguard your venture. What […]

The Secret Sauce of Success:

The Secret Sauce of Success:

The Secret Sauce of Success: Embracing Company Culture in Small Business Hey fellow small business rockstars! Today, let’s talk about something more critical than morning coffee and Wi-Fi – company culture. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Culture, schmulture, I’m just here to keep the lights on.” But trust me, my entrepreneurial amigos, the secret […]

Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates

Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates

Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates So you’ve crafted a killer proposal, landed a dream client, and now comes the tricky part: negotiating your rate. Fear not, brave freelancer! With a little preparation and savvy communication, you can secure a fair price that reflects your skills and keeps the client happy. Know […]

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business: Supercharge Your Team’s Common Vision The rags to riches stories of a Michiana business achieving high success are still too rare. What is the missing factor?  Focused common vision.  What makes the difference in small businesses that struggle ramping up after their initial startup and those that reach 2-, 3- or 10-times […]

Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy

Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy

Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy Spiritual Foundations and Entrepreneurial Vision Alpha Jak is not just a pavement asset management firm; it’s a testament to the power of belief, innovation, and community. Founded by Andre Jackson, a visionary entrepreneur with a deep belief in mentalism, the company stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring […]

People you meet Networking.

People you meet Networking.

People you meet Networking. Dr. Ivan Meisner, Chief Visionary Officer and Founder of BNI once asked these questions…. “By a show of hands, how many of you came to sell something to someone today?” Nearly all the hands in the room went up. “Now, how many of you by show of hands came to buy […]

Freelancer Frenzy: Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout

Freelancer Frenzy: Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout

Freelancer Frenzy – Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout Juggling multiple projects, chasing deadlines, and battling the ever-present email monster – freelancer life can be exhilarating, yes, but also utterly chaotic. Before you reach peak overwhelm and spontaneously combust, fret not! Let’s delve into some battle-tested strategies to keep your workload in check, deadlines […]

Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow

Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow

Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow @garyvee – Gary Vaynerchuk is a serial entrepreneur, author, and speaker known for his valuable insights on branding, marketing, and social media. His energetic and no-nonsense approach to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and educational. @elonmusk – Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is a […]

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? 

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? 

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? Here Are Tips for Interviewing Candidates.   Congratulations! You’ve reached a pivotal moment in your business journey: you’re ready to expand your team by hiring your first employee. This decision marks a significant milestone and presents an exciting opportunity for growth. However, the process of finding and […]

Mastering Your Business

Mastering Your Business

Mastering Your Business – 7 Ways to Increase Influence with Colleagues, Prospects, and Clients. Outstanding small business leaders and successful sales team members draw a roadmap that guides themselves and their target audience closer efficiently and effectively.  We have all met a person who can make anyone comfortable, engaged and trusting.  What superpower gives you […]

Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know 

Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know 

Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know Managing finances is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful small business. Whether you’re just starting or have been in business for years, understanding key financial principles can help you make smarter decisions, grow your company, and avoid costly mistakes. Here are […]

Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free 

Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free 

Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free Kelli Stair and Alex Welsch always knew they wanted to run a business together but weren’t sure what type of business they wanted. As they explored franchise opportunities, one problem kept coming up: evenings in their backyard were anything but relaxing. “We’d spent so […]

Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success 

Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success 

Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success The Bold Leap from Corporate to CEO When Teri Pascone launched Bookkeeping Today, LLC full-time, she thought it would take years to build a business that could replace her corporate salary. Eight months later, she made her dream a reality. Teri walked away from the corporate […]

Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti

Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti

Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti The local small business landscape is a relentless race, where standing still is akin to moving backward. We are experiencing a hyper-competitive business market, where our companies must relentlessly evolve, adapt, and innovate to not just survive, but to truly thrive. Smart […]

Smart Investing: A Guide for Business Owners 

Smart Investing: A Guide for Business Owners 

Smart Investing for Business Owners By Matthew Ammerman, CEO of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine Running a business requires strategic planning, adaptability, and resourcefulness. While these traits are crucial to day-to-day operations, they also play an essential role in ensuring long-term financial health. One way to bolster your business’s financial stability is by investing in […]

5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy 

5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy 

5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy From your friends at: Designing for print isn’t just about making things look pretty—it’s about making sure your beautiful creation doesn’t turn into a pixelated, misaligned disaster once it leaves your screen. At Zipp Printing, we’ve seen it all, and trust us, a little […]

What does your Brand represent? 

What does your Brand represent? 

What does your Brand represent? When looking at your Brand, accountability may be the furthest from your mind, however, whether we realize it or not, our accountability can gain or lose us business, thus impacting our Brand. To whom are you accountable? Here are a few of my accountability partners: • Me! I must discipline […]

The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness

The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness

The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness Written by Melissa Rowe-Lane Abstract In the dynamic realm of small business ownership, self-awareness is a critical determinant of success. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) offers a structured framework for understanding personality preferences and their influence on decision-making, communication, and leadership. This article explores the significance […]

The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey

The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey

The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey Starting and growing a business takes more than a great idea—it takes courage. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, from financial risks to self-doubt, but success belongs to those who push forward despite fear. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the determination to act in spite […]

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle Let’s face it, the freelance life can be a thrilling rollercoaster. One day you’re basking in the glory of landing a dream client, the next you’re wrestling with rogue invoices and wondering where the next project will come from. […]

The Five Goals of Business Owners: Cash Flow. Profit, Growth, Satisfaction, and Harmony

The Five Goals of Business Owners: Cash Flow. Profit, Growth, Satisfaction, and Harmony

As a business owner, navigating the world of entrepreneurship is like managing a small, unpredictable zoo. Every day brings new challenges and rewards, and I’ve found that focusing on five key goals helps keep things running smoothly: cash flow, profit, growth, satisfaction, and harmony. Let’s dive into these goals with a light-hearted yet informative perspective. […]

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend In the heart of South Bend’s East Bank District, you’ll find a dynamic creative community space called Stockroom East. Officially opening its doors in 2021, this multifaceted venue offers a blend of coworking, event hosting, and live music performances, attracting a diverse crowd from […]

Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game

Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game

Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game By Deb Ammerman, Editor-in-Chief, Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine As Editor-in-Chief of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine, I meet dozens of new people every month—business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Each introduction is an opportunity to make a connection and build a relationship. But […]

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process As a small business owner or entrepreneur, managing projects effectively is essential to your success. A well-structured project management process not only keeps you organized but also helps you deliver consistent results for clients and stakeholders. Here’s a straightforward guide to setting up a project management […]

Welcome to

Getting Started in Business

From creating a business plan to navigating the first steps of entrepreneurship, our articles offer practical advice and inspiration, encouragement, and actionable strategies to help you start strong. Take the first step toward achieving your business dreams today!

Turning Passion intoProfit –

Turning Passion intoProfit –

Turning Passion into Profit – Transforming Your Hobby into a Thriving Business Many dream of turning their beloved hobby into a flourishing business, but the transition from leisure pursuit to profitable venture requires strategic planning, dedication, and a leap of faith. Whether it’s crafting, baking, writing, or any other passion, here’s a roadmap to guide […]

Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – 

Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – 

Ditch the Cubicle, Embrace the Freedom – A Beginner’s Guide to Freelance Marketing Gone are the days of the chained-to-your-desk, fluorescent-lit office grind. Today, the world of marketing is brimming with opportunity for the adventurous souls who crave flexible hours, unlimited coffee breaks, and the thrill of being their own boss. Welcome to the exciting realm […]

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business – What gives you an almost unfair advantage…   Face it, today’s business owners have more resources than ever to model, launch, create profits, scale, and create a legacy for decades.  So why do small business closures rates continue to grow? I look to an Indiana Jones movie line “choose wisely” as […]

Baking Up Sweet Success –

Baking Up Sweet Success –

Baking Up Sweet Success – Amanda Garman’s Journey to Confection Perfection In the quaint kitchen of Mini Snack Confections, a home-based bakery, the aroma of freshly baked treats fills the air. This cozy space is the heart of Amanda Garman’s thriving business, a dream turned reality born from her desire to balance work and family […]

Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business

Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business

Understanding Liability Insurance: Safeguarding Your Business In the world of entrepreneurship, a crucial aspect often overlooked is liability insurance. It’s the invisible shield protecting businesses from potential financial disasters caused by unforeseen circumstances. Whether you’re a budding startup or an established enterprise, comprehending the essence of liability insurance is imperative to safeguard your venture. What […]

The Secret Sauce of Success:

The Secret Sauce of Success:

The Secret Sauce of Success: Embracing Company Culture in Small Business Hey fellow small business rockstars! Today, let’s talk about something more critical than morning coffee and Wi-Fi – company culture. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Culture, schmulture, I’m just here to keep the lights on.” But trust me, my entrepreneurial amigos, the secret […]

Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates

Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates

Negotiation Ninja: Mastering the Art of Fair Freelance Rates So you’ve crafted a killer proposal, landed a dream client, and now comes the tricky part: negotiating your rate. Fear not, brave freelancer! With a little preparation and savvy communication, you can secure a fair price that reflects your skills and keeps the client happy. Know […]

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business – 

Mastering Your Business: Supercharge Your Team’s Common Vision The rags to riches stories of a Michiana business achieving high success are still too rare. What is the missing factor?  Focused common vision.  What makes the difference in small businesses that struggle ramping up after their initial startup and those that reach 2-, 3- or 10-times […]

Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy

Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy

Manifesting Success: The Alpha Jak Philosophy Spiritual Foundations and Entrepreneurial Vision Alpha Jak is not just a pavement asset management firm; it’s a testament to the power of belief, innovation, and community. Founded by Andre Jackson, a visionary entrepreneur with a deep belief in mentalism, the company stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring […]

People you meet Networking.

People you meet Networking.

People you meet Networking. Dr. Ivan Meisner, Chief Visionary Officer and Founder of BNI once asked these questions…. “By a show of hands, how many of you came to sell something to someone today?” Nearly all the hands in the room went up. “Now, how many of you by show of hands came to buy […]

Freelancer Frenzy: Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout

Freelancer Frenzy: Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout

Freelancer Frenzy – Conquering Workload, Hitting Deadlines, and Avoiding Burnout Juggling multiple projects, chasing deadlines, and battling the ever-present email monster – freelancer life can be exhilarating, yes, but also utterly chaotic. Before you reach peak overwhelm and spontaneously combust, fret not! Let’s delve into some battle-tested strategies to keep your workload in check, deadlines […]

Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow

Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow

Top “X” (Twitter) Profiles Every Entrepreneur Should Follow @garyvee – Gary Vaynerchuk is a serial entrepreneur, author, and speaker known for his valuable insights on branding, marketing, and social media. His energetic and no-nonsense approach to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and educational. @elonmusk – Elon Musk, the visionary CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is a […]

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? 

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? 

So You’re Ready to Hire Your First Employee? Here Are Tips for Interviewing Candidates.   Congratulations! You’ve reached a pivotal moment in your business journey: you’re ready to expand your team by hiring your first employee. This decision marks a significant milestone and presents an exciting opportunity for growth. However, the process of finding and […]

Mastering Your Business

Mastering Your Business

Mastering Your Business – 7 Ways to Increase Influence with Colleagues, Prospects, and Clients. Outstanding small business leaders and successful sales team members draw a roadmap that guides themselves and their target audience closer efficiently and effectively.  We have all met a person who can make anyone comfortable, engaged and trusting.  What superpower gives you […]

Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know 

Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know 

Mastering Finances: What Every Small Business Owner Needs to Know Managing finances is one of the most critical aspects of running a successful small business. Whether you’re just starting or have been in business for years, understanding key financial principles can help you make smarter decisions, grow your company, and avoid costly mistakes. Here are […]

Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free 

Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free 

Taking Back the Backyard: How Kelli & Alex Keep Michiana Buzz-Free Kelli Stair and Alex Welsch always knew they wanted to run a business together but weren’t sure what type of business they wanted. As they explored franchise opportunities, one problem kept coming up: evenings in their backyard were anything but relaxing. “We’d spent so […]

Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success 

Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success 

Bookkeeping Today, LLC: Teri Pascone’s Rapid Rise to Success The Bold Leap from Corporate to CEO When Teri Pascone launched Bookkeeping Today, LLC full-time, she thought it would take years to build a business that could replace her corporate salary. Eight months later, she made her dream a reality. Teri walked away from the corporate […]

Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti

Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti

Innovate or Evaporate: Building a Winning Michiana Small Business Culture by Mike Ronchetti The local small business landscape is a relentless race, where standing still is akin to moving backward. We are experiencing a hyper-competitive business market, where our companies must relentlessly evolve, adapt, and innovate to not just survive, but to truly thrive. Smart […]

Smart Investing: A Guide for Business Owners 

Smart Investing: A Guide for Business Owners 

Smart Investing for Business Owners By Matthew Ammerman, CEO of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine Running a business requires strategic planning, adaptability, and resourcefulness. While these traits are crucial to day-to-day operations, they also play an essential role in ensuring long-term financial health. One way to bolster your business’s financial stability is by investing in […]

5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy 

5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy 

5 Print Design Tips to Keep Your Printer (and Sanity) Happy From your friends at: Designing for print isn’t just about making things look pretty—it’s about making sure your beautiful creation doesn’t turn into a pixelated, misaligned disaster once it leaves your screen. At Zipp Printing, we’ve seen it all, and trust us, a little […]

What does your Brand represent? 

What does your Brand represent? 

What does your Brand represent? When looking at your Brand, accountability may be the furthest from your mind, however, whether we realize it or not, our accountability can gain or lose us business, thus impacting our Brand. To whom are you accountable? Here are a few of my accountability partners: • Me! I must discipline […]

The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness

The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness

The Entrepreneurial Compass: Navigating Small Business with Myers-Briggs Self-Awareness Written by Melissa Rowe-Lane Abstract In the dynamic realm of small business ownership, self-awareness is a critical determinant of success. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) offers a structured framework for understanding personality preferences and their influence on decision-making, communication, and leadership. This article explores the significance […]

The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey

The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey

The Courage to Succeed: Staying Fearless in Your Entrepreneurial Journey Starting and growing a business takes more than a great idea—it takes courage. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, from financial risks to self-doubt, but success belongs to those who push forward despite fear. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the determination to act in spite […]

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network

How To Build A Strong Freelance Network Freelancer Synergy: Connecting, Collaborating, and Conquering the Gig Jungle Let’s face it, the freelance life can be a thrilling rollercoaster. One day you’re basking in the glory of landing a dream client, the next you’re wrestling with rogue invoices and wondering where the next project will come from. […]

The Five Goals of Business Owners: Cash Flow. Profit, Growth, Satisfaction, and Harmony

The Five Goals of Business Owners: Cash Flow. Profit, Growth, Satisfaction, and Harmony

As a business owner, navigating the world of entrepreneurship is like managing a small, unpredictable zoo. Every day brings new challenges and rewards, and I’ve found that focusing on five key goals helps keep things running smoothly: cash flow, profit, growth, satisfaction, and harmony. Let’s dive into these goals with a light-hearted yet informative perspective. […]

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend

Stockroom East: A Hub of Creativity and Music in South Bend In the heart of South Bend’s East Bank District, you’ll find a dynamic creative community space called Stockroom East. Officially opening its doors in 2021, this multifaceted venue offers a blend of coworking, event hosting, and live music performances, attracting a diverse crowd from […]

Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game

Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game

Remembering Names: A Simple Skill That Can Transform Your Networking Game By Deb Ammerman, Editor-in-Chief, Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine As Editor-in-Chief of Small Business Showcase Digital Magazine, I meet dozens of new people every month—business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Each introduction is an opportunity to make a connection and build a relationship. But […]

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process

6 Steps to Building a Strong Project Management Process As a small business owner or entrepreneur, managing projects effectively is essential to your success. A well-structured project management process not only keeps you organized but also helps you deliver consistent results for clients and stakeholders. Here’s a straightforward guide to setting up a project management […]