Welcome to Small Business Stories, the podcast that serves up a feast of real-life stories from small business owners who are bravely navigating the entrepreneurial landscape! I’m your host, Loralyn Mears, PhD—better known as "Dr. LL"—a seasoned pro with a colorful career that includes three stints as a Fortune 100 executive and several startup adventures, including my own. In each episode, we dive into the inspiring journeys of small business owners, sharing their triumphs, challenges, and the hard-won lessons they've learned along the way. Expect relatable anecdotes and actionable tips that will ignite your entrepreneurial spirit, whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business. Join us for candid conversations where we keep it real—no filters here! Being a small biz owner isn't a walk in the park, but it's a wild ride worth taking. Tune in and get ready to be inspired by the heart and hustle of fellow entrepreneurs just like you. Let’s dig in together and celebrate the journey of small business ownership!