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What separates truly successful business owners from those who stay stuck?

In this episode of Small Business Pivots, host Michael Morrison sits down with Andreas Pettersson, Founder of Leaders Adapt, to explore the real reasons why some entrepreneurs scale to success—while others spin their wheels. After helping grow a tech company to a nine-figure valuation, Andreas reveals that strategy and funding weren’t the magic ingredients. It was emotional intelligence, curiosity, and brutal self-honesty that made the difference.

"Curiosity is king," says Andreas, as he breaks down how fear-driven decisions can cost entrepreneurs time, money, and energy. Instead, he encourages business owners to ask themselves: “What if the opposite is true?”—a powerful mindset shift that prevents costly mistakes and uncovers hidden opportunities.

We also unpack the growth stages every business faces:
• From $0–$2M: founders must lead sales—no exceptions.
• From $2M–$10M: the right processes (not too many) are key.
• Beyond $10M: leadership development and culture define your ceiling.

Andreas shares three transformative exercises that helped him lead with clarity:
✅ Breaking negative thought spirals with the 5-second rule
✅ Recording positive feedback to fight negative bias
✅ Starting each day with visualization instead of screen-scrolling

Whether you're growing a business from scratch or scaling past $10 million, this episode will challenge how you think, lead, and make decisions.

🎙️ Listen now to hear Andreas Pettersson on Small Business Pivots with Michael Morrison—and discover how honest self-reflection can reignite your business growth.

Andreas Pettersson: Leaders Adapt, CEO & Co-Founder

Website: https://www.leadersadapt.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreastheceo/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andreastheceo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555794758899

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andreastheceo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreastheceo/

#SmallBusinessPivots #MichaelDMorrison #AndreasPettersson #LeadersAdapt #BusinessPodcast #BusinessCoach #SmallBusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #ScaleYourBusiness #BusinessStrategy #GrowYourBusiness #FounderJourney #OklahomaCity #BOSS #MindsetMatters #FromStartupToSuccess #EntrepreneurLife #SmallBusinessSuccess

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Mastering Google Ads: Lead generation strategies to grow your small business with John Horn of StubGroup

Navigating the complexities of Google Ads can be daunting for small business owners, but in this episode of Small Business Pivots, John Horn, CEO of Stub Group, breaks it all down. From avoiding wasted ad spend to leveraging smart targeting strategies, Horn shares proven tactics that help businesses maximize their digital advertising ROI.

Many small businesses dive into Google Ads without a clear strategy—leading to expensive clicks and poor results. Horn explains why this happens and outlines a step-by-step framework for success, starting with setting clear campaign goals and understanding what each lead or sale is worth to your business.

💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode:
✔️ How Google's pay-per-click system works and why quality scoring matters
✔️ The minimum ad budget needed to make data-driven optimizations
✔️ How to avoid common Google Ads mistakes that drain marketing budgets
✔️ Retargeting strategies to convert website visitors into paying customers
✔️ Best practices for hiring the right digital marketing talent for long-term success
✔️ The importance of website quality, customer reviews, and lead nurturing before launching paid ads

John Horn also shares expert insights on navigating Google’s complex advertising policies, avoiding account suspensions, and ensuring your campaigns stay profitable—even in highly competitive industries.

Whether you're running Google Ads for the first time or looking to improve your results, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help small businesses generate more leads and grow online.

🔊 Listen now and start running Google Ads the smart way!

John Horn: StubGroup, CEO

Website: https://stubgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjhorn1/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/stubgroup

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StubGroup

Blog: https://stubgroup.com/blog/

Podcast: https://stubgroup.com/podcasts/

#GoogleAds #DigitalMarketing #SmallBusinessGrowth #OnlineAdvertising #PPCMarketing #GoogleAdsTips #MarketingStrategy #PaidSearch #LeadGeneration #SmallBusinessMarketing #AdvertisingStrategy #GoogleMarketing #MarketingForSmallBusiness #GrowYourBusiness #MarketingTips #Entrepreneurship #MarketingExpert #BusinessSuccess #GoogleAdWords #AdStrategy #JohnHorn #StubGroup #SmallBusinessPivots #MichaelDMorrison #BOSS #BusinessCoach #BusinessLoans #OklahomaCity #BusinessPodcast #SmallBusinessOwner #MarketingForEntrepreneurs #ScaleYourBusiness #BusinessGrowth #MarketingExperts #GoogleAdsSuccess

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Ever wondered how some entrepreneurs turn an unexpected career shift into a thriving business? Travis Briggs, co-owner of Trichology Salon in Oklahoma City, went from tending bar to leading a successful 20-station salon—all by embracing continuous learning, business systems, and strategic hiring.

In this episode of Small Business Pivots, Travis shares how he helped build a sustainable and scalable salon business by implementing clear core values, structured processes, and a long-term growth strategy. He also reveals the pivotal decision during COVID that reshaped his business and set the foundation for lasting success.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ The unconventional path Travis took into the beauty industry
✔️ The game-changing decision that helped him scale his salon
✔️ How he solved his biggest hiring challenges with a creative approach
✔️ The key systems and processes every salon owner needs to grow
✔️ Why long-term business planning is critical for success

💡 Travis’ Insight: “When something isn’t happening in a business, it comes down to a person not knowing they’re supposed to do it—or they don’t know how.”

Whether you're a salon owner, small business entrepreneur, or looking for strategies to grow your company, this episode is packed with valuable insights you can apply right now.

🎧 Listen now and discover how to scale your business with the right mindset, strategy, and systems!

Travis Briggs: Co-owner of Trichology Salon

Website: https://www.trichologysalon.net/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisbriggs2/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trichology

#SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #BusinessCoaching #SalonBusiness #SalonOwner #SuccessStories #EntrepreneurMindset #ScalableBusiness #BusinessStrategy #HiringTips #LeadershipDevelopment #SystemsAndProcesses #MarketingForSalons #EntrepreneurJourney #ScalingABusiness #BusinessOwnerLife #MindsetForSuccess #StrategicGrowth #CoachingForEntrepreneurs #BusinessOperations #WorkOnYourBusiness #Public Speaking #TeamBuilding #BusinessLeadership #GrowthMindset #BusinessSuccess #TravisBriggs #TammyBriggs #Trichology #TrichologySalon #OklahomaCity #OklahomaCityBusiness #BOSS #MichaelDMorrison

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​In this transformative episode of Small Business Pivots, we engage with Kute Blackson—a renowned transformational teacher, speaker, and bestselling author of "You.Are.The.One." and "The Magic of Surrender"—to explore the profound connection between self-worth, personal growth, and business transformation. ​

Kute shares his unique perspective on "uncoaching," a process designed to help individuals shed conditioned beliefs and reconnect with their authentic selves. He emphasizes that surrender is not about defeat but about consciously releasing outdated narratives to align with one's true purpose. By reframing our relationship with failure, expectations, and external validations, Kute outlines actionable steps to reclaim personal power and lead with authenticity.​

This episode serves as a catalyst for awakening, offering strategies to question limiting beliefs, heal from past experiences, and thrive both personally and professionally. Tune in to this inspiring discussion and consider exploring Kute Blackson's insightful books to further your journey toward self-discovery and success.

Kute Blackson: Transformational Teacher & Bestselling Author

Website: https://kuteblackson.com/

*Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kuteblacksonlovenow

*Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kuteblackson/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kuteblackson

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/kuteblackson09

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kute-blackson-35755519/

Kute’s Life changing Path to Abundance & Miracles: https://www.8levelsofgratitude.com/the-8-levels-of-gratitude

Blog: https://kuteblackson.com/blog/

Book: https://kuteblackson.com/books/themagicofsurrender/

Podcast: https://kuteblackson.com/soultalk/

#KuteBlackson #SmallBusinessPivots #MichaelDMorrison #OklahomaCity #BusinessTransformation #SelfWorth #PersonalGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #AuthenticLeadership #SuccessMindset #OvercomingSelfDoubt #TransformationalCoach #MindsetMatters #TheMagicOfSurrender #Uncoaching #EntrepreneurshipJourney #SmallBusinessGrowth #MindsetShift #SelfDiscovery #BusinessCoaching #Empowerment #SuccessStrategies #EntrepreneursLife #BuildYourEmpire #BusinessMindset #InnerGrowth #HighPerformanceHabits #PurposeDrivenBusiness #LeadershipSuccess #BreakThroughLimits #SmallBusinessSuccess #MindsetForSuccess

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Struggling with stage fright or camera anxiety? In this episode, we sit down with Kerry Barrett, an Emmy-winning former TV news anchor turned communications expert, to uncover the secrets of commanding confidence on screen. Kerry shares her journey from aspiring veterinarian to award-winning broadcaster, highlighting the power of communication skills in personal and professional success.

If the camera feels intimidating, Kerry’s 30-day challenge can help you build confidence through short video recordings—making on-screen presence feel natural and even exciting.

We also dive into networking strategies for introverts, turning overwhelming social events into genuine opportunities for connection. Learn how to craft an engaging elevator pitch, use vocal variety to capture attention, and enhance your presence with simple tweaks to gestures and expressions. Whether you’re refining your video content for LinkedIn or navigating a crowded room, these techniques will help you stand out.

Plus, we tackle self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and mental barriers holding entrepreneurs back. Inspired by Brianna Wiest’s You Are the Mountain, we discuss embracing vulnerability, self-forgiveness, and personal growth. Kerry also shares how personalized media training can boost your authenticity and confidence on camera.

If you’re ready to sharpen your communication skills, overcome fear, and elevate your presence—this episode is for you!

🎧 Tune in now to transform the way you communicate—on and off camera!

Kerry Barrett: Emmy-Winning Former News Anchor & Communications Expert

Website: https://www.kerrybarrett.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrybarrett/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkerrybarrett/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IAmKerryBarrett

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IAmKerryBarrett

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamkerrybarrett

#PublicSpeaking #Leadership #PublicSpeaker #Communication #Motivation #PublicSpeakingTraining #PublicSpeakingCoach #Toastmasters #PublicSpeakingTips #CommunicationSkills #Training #Speaker #Confidence #Speech #PublicSpeakingSkills #SmallBusinessPivots #GrowYourBusiness #SmallBusinessCoach #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessSuccess #BusinessPodcast #MichaelDMorrison #BOSS #BusinessOwnership #OklahomaCity

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Imagine leaving your business behind while fighting overseas. How do you ensure it thrives without you?

Our guest, James Spearman, founder & CEO of James Spearman Aircraft, shares his inspiring journey, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the turning points that defined his path. From a childhood marked by adversity to discovering the transformative power of structured processes, he reveals how perseverance and the right guidance can lead to success. Listen in as we explore his story and the entrepreneurial vigor that drives him forward.

Transitioning from a traditional job to becoming an Air Force pilot and eventually an entrepreneur wasn't easy, but it was fueled by the stories of successful individuals and the wisdom found in books like "Rich Dad, Poor Dad." I recount my transformation, highlighting the importance of learning from others’ experiences and embracing uncertainty. A poignant encounter with a mentor who turned his life around motivated me to pursue my ambitions, underscoring the essence of resilience and the willingness to face the unknown.

Experience the tension of a high-stakes military operation involving a KC-135 refueler amid a direct threat to Israel. Our remarkable guest, James, played a crucial role in this mission, showcasing the power of teamwork and calmness under pressure, earning the Distinguished Flying Cross. This experience significantly influenced his entrepreneurial decisions, particularly in niching down within the aviation industry. By focusing on high-end aircraft like Cirrus and Diamond, he highlights the strategic value of specialization and targeting the right audience to achieve business success, offering a compelling narrative of triumph and determination.

James Spearman shares his compelling story of overcoming challenges in both his personal life and aviation business. Listeners are encouraged to learn from mistakes, focus on personal development, and understand the importance of effective teamwork and clear operational processes.

James Spearman: co-founder & CEO of James Spearman Aircraft

Website: https://www.spearmanaircraft.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-spearman-b897bb107/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesspearmanaircraft/

Blog: https://www.spearmanaircraft.com/blog

#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #SuccessMindset #VeteranEntrepreneur #MilitaryLeadership #AirForce #AviationBusiness #AircraftMaintenance #MentorshipMatters #BusinessStrategy #ScalingABusiness #Resilience #PodcastEpisode #BusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurPodcast #AviationPodcast #SmallBusinessPivots #GrowYourBusiness #SmallBusinessCoach #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessSuccess #BusinessPodcast #MichaelDMorrison #BOSS #BusinessOwnership #OklahomaCity

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Ever wondered how a small-town upbringing can shape a big-time career in tech? In this episode of Small Business Pivots, we sit down with Kyle York, co-founder & CEO of York IE, to uncover his journey from growing up in a family-run athletic footwear business in New Hampshire to leading a strategic growth and investment firm for tech startups.

Kyle shares invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, scaling businesses, and the balance between stability and growth. Drawing from his deep-rooted experience in retail, investment, and tech advisory, he reveals how vertically integrated operations can create long-term success.

We also explore the evolving tech career landscape, where remote work and geographic flexibility are transforming traditional industry norms. Kyle’s own transition—from college football to tech entrepreneurship—highlights the iterative career steps that many professionals face. Learn how opportunities beyond Silicon Valley are fostering innovation in diverse locations and opening doors for aspiring entrepreneurs.

As we navigate the challenges of scaling a startup, Kyle contrasts startups' agility with the slow-moving nature of large corporations. He offers insights into the entrepreneurial mindset, problem-solving, and execution. Through the lens of York IE, he shares how startups can turn ideas into successful ventures, build high-performing teams, and redefine success in today’s digital-first economy.

Join us for this insight-packed conversation with Kyle York, and gain expert advice on growing, innovating, and thriving in the fast-paced world of tech entrepreneurship.

Kyle York: co-founder & CEO of York IE

Website: https://york.ie/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyork20/

Podcast: https://york.ie/podcasts/

Blog: https://york.ie/blog/

#Entrepreneurship #TechStartups #StartupGrowth #BusinessInnovation #KyleYork #YorkIE #TechEntrepreneur #ScalingBusinesses #BusinessLeadership #RemoteWork #VentureCapital #StartupSuccess #SmallBusinessPivots #FounderMindset #InvestmentFirm #BusinessStrategy #GrowthHacking #SiliconValley #TechIndustry #LeadershipDevelopment #CareerGrowth #BusinessPodcast #StartupLife #DigitalTransformation #EntrepreneurMindset #SmallBusinessSuccess #BusinessCoaching #TechInvesting #FutureOfWork #ScalingStartups #BusinessMentorship #SmallBusinessPivots #GrowYourBusiness #SmallBusinessCoach #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessSuccess #BusinessPodcast #MichaelDMorrison #BOSS #BusinessOwnership #OklahomaCity

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What does it take to build a thriving business as a solopreneur? In this episode of Small Business Pivots, we sit down with Joe Rando, Founder & CEO of LifeStarr, to explore the key lessons he's learned from decades of entrepreneurship.

Joe’s journey began in commercial real estate, where he leveraged creativity and relationships to develop shopping centers—without massive upfront investments. Growing up in a family of business owners, he honed his ability to adapt and find opportunities, even in tough economic climates.

But his entrepreneurial path didn’t stop there. Joe transitioned into the tech industry, launching retail site selection software that gained traction with a major mall developer and even contributed to the national expansion of CVS. While the venture ultimately faced challenges, the impact of his innovation endured, proving that setbacks can lead to lasting success.

In this episode, we break down:
- Smart hiring for small business owners – How to build a strong team by hiring people smarter than you
- Niche positioning for solopreneurs – Why specialization attracts better clients and increases profitability
- The solopreneur success cycle – Strategies for setting clear goals, staying agile, and fostering continuous learning

Joe also shares insights from the Aspiring Solopreneur podcast and LifeStarr’s resources, helping business owners build a business that runs efficiently—without burning out.

Listen now to discover how to pivot, scale, and sustain success as a solopreneur!

Joe Rando: Founder of CEO of LifeStarr

Website: https://www.lifestarr.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joerando/

Podcast: https://www.lifestarr.com/the-aspiring-solopreneur-podcast

Blog: https://www.lifestarr.com/blog

Email: joe@workstarr.com

#Solopreneur #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #BusinessGrowth #StartupSuccess #BusinessStrategy #SmartHiring #NicheMarketing #ScalingABusiness #LeadershipDevelopment #PodcastForEntrepreneurs #SmallBusinessPodcast #BusinessTips #SuccessMindset #EntrepreneurLife #JoeRando #LifeStarr #SmallBusinessPivots #GrowYourBusiness #SmallBusinessCoach #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessSuccess #BusinessPodcast #MichaelDMorrison #BOSS #BusinessOwnership #OklahomaCity

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