Are you passionate about neighborhood revitalization, small business growth, and making an impact right where you live or work? Do you struggle to find practical, trusted resources to launch or scale your business? Are you seeking to understand how your business fits into a broader economic ecosystem—or simply want to be inspired by real, measurable progress?This episode of Scale Up Your Business is a must-listen for:<ul><li>Small Business Owners & Aspiring Entrepreneurs</li><li>Community Leaders & Commercial Corridor Champions</li><li>Those Feeling Left Behind by Traditional Resources</li><li>Entrepreneurs Facing Barriers</li><li>Change-Makers & Future Partners</li></ul> <h3>Key Takeaways</h3><ul><li>The Power of Ecosystem Building: Why managing both entrepreneur development and corridor revitalization creates more sustainable, vibrant business districts.</li><li>Real, Actionable Resources: From LA21’s Capital Access Readiness Program to hands-on storefront improvements, discover programs you can access today.</li></ul> Learn more, get connected, and start scaling at <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">la21philly.org</a>.

Are you passionate about neighborhood revitalization, small business growth, and making an impact right where you live or work? Do you struggle to find practical, trusted resources to launch or scale your business? Are you seeking to understand how your business fits into a broader economic ecosystem—or simply want to be inspired by real, measurable progress?This episode of Scale Up Your Business is a must-listen for:Small Business Owners & Aspiring EntrepreneursCommunity Leaders & Commercial Corridor ChampionsThose Feeling Left Behind by Traditional ResourcesEntrepreneurs Facing BarriersChange-Makers & Future PartnersKey TakeawaysThe Power of Ecosystem Building: Why managing both entrepreneur development and corridor revitalization creates more sustainable, vibrant business districts.Real, Actionable Resources: From LA21’s Capital Access Readiness Program to hands-on storefront improvements, discover programs you can access today.Learn more, get connected, and start scaling at la21philly.org.

Scale Up Your Business

Small Business Growth: The Story Behind LA21's Corridor Management and Entrepreneur Development Programs

In this relaunch episode of Scale Up Your Business, Zakia Ringgold sits down with Craig Lytle for a focused conversation on income planning, estate planning, and the discipline of making financial decisions before crisis forces them.Craig explains what income and estate planning means in practical terms for business owners. This is not about extreme wealth. It is about structuring dependable income, protecting assets from unnecessary exposure, documenting key decisions, and ensuring your business and family are not left vulnerable if life interrupts your plans. The discussion highlights why many options disappear after a health or legal event, why fear delays important conversations, and how acting early and often builds long term stability. You will also hear the difference between defensive and offensive planning, and why financial independence is about maintaining options, not just increasing assets.If you want control tomorrow, you must make intentional decisions today. Connect with Craig at Income and Estate Planning: <a href="https://iandeplanning.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://iandeplanning.com/</a>Learn more about the Scale Up training program at: <a href="https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/</a>

In this relaunch episode of Scale Up Your Business, Zakia Ringgold sits down with Craig Lytle for a focused conversation on income planning, estate planning, and the discipline of making financial decisions before crisis forces them.Craig explains what income and estate planning means in practical terms for business owners. This is not about extreme wealth. It is about structuring dependable income, protecting assets from unnecessary exposure, documenting key decisions, and ensuring your business and family are not left vulnerable if life interrupts your plans. The discussion highlights why many options disappear after a health or legal event, why fear delays important conversations, and how acting early and often builds long term stability. You will also hear the difference between defensive and offensive planning, and why financial independence is about maintaining options, not just increasing assets.If you want control tomorrow, you must make intentional decisions today.Connect with Craig at Income and Estate Planning: https://iandeplanning.com/Learn more about the Scale Up training program at: https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/

Building Stability Before Life Happens With Craig Lytle

For service-based business owners looking for inspiration and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen! Join our host as she sits down with Joanne Scioli, founder of JBS Inspection Services, who built a thriving specialized business using scent detection canines to uncover bed bug infestations. Joanne shares how she turned an unexpected layoff into an opportunity, navigated the challenges of building a service-based business from scratch, and leveraged her network—and a lot of trial by fire—to grow her reputation. She opens up about the power of referrals, setting boundaries around free work, and why empathy and non-judgment are crucial when working in clients’ homes. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale your service business, Joanne's hard-won lessons on marketing, resilience, and customer relationships will inspire you to take the next step. For show notes and links to JBS inspection visit: <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">LA21philly.org</a>

For service-based business owners looking for inspiration and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen!Join our host as she sits down with Joanne Scioli, founder of JBS Inspection Services, who built a thriving specialized business using scent detection canines to uncover bed bug infestations. Joanne shares how she turned an unexpected layoff into an opportunity, navigated the challenges of building a service-based business from scratch, and leveraged her network—and a lot of trial by fire—to grow her reputation. She opens up about the power of referrals, setting boundaries around free work, and why empathy and non-judgment are crucial when working in clients’ homes. Whether you're just starting or looking to scale your service business, Joanne's hard-won lessons on marketing, resilience, and customer relationships will inspire you to take the next step.For show notes and links to JBS inspection visit: LA21philly.org

Building a Service Business with Scent Detection Canines

Are you in the market to buy a car for your business? In this episode of Scale Up Your Business, we sit down with John Rice—otherwise known as the "Inside Man" of the car industry. With over a decade of experience working every angle of the car business, John spills the secrets dealers DON'T want you to know. From hidden dealer incentives to mind-blowing dealership math, he reveals how car buyers—and even car salespeople—are regularly taken for a ride. If you've ever wondered if leasing or buying is the smarter move, how much you really need for a down payment, or what happens to your trade-in value behind closed doors, this episode is your masterclass. John shares the knowledge and negotiation tactics that can save you thousands—and the pitfalls to avoid to stop leaving money on the table. Ready to outsmart the system and drive away with real savings for your business? Tune in, because John’s about to show you how to win the car game from the inside out. Get the episode show notes and John's contact information at <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

Are you in the market to buy a car for your business? In this episode of Scale Up Your Business, we sit down with John Rice—otherwise known as the "Inside Man" of the car industry. With over a decade of experience working every angle of the car business, John spills the secrets dealers DON'T want you to know. From hidden dealer incentives to mind-blowing dealership math, he reveals how car buyers—and even car salespeople—are regularly taken for a ride.If you've ever wondered if leasing or buying is the smarter move, how much you really need for a down payment, or what happens to your trade-in value behind closed doors, this episode is your masterclass. John shares the knowledge and negotiation tactics that can save you thousands—and the pitfalls to avoid to stop leaving money on the table.Ready to outsmart the system and drive away with real savings for your business? Tune in, because John’s about to show you how to win the car game from the inside out.Get the episode show notes and John's contact information at https://la21philly.org

What Car Dealers Don’t Want You to Know - Inside Tips from John Rice

Are you a small business owner in Philadelphia ready to take your business to the next level? In this episode, host Zakia Ringgold sits down with Leslie Acosta, a seasoned educator, and the Outreach & Engagement Manager for the Philadelphia Department of Commerce. Leslie unveils all the details on the city’s brand new Catalyst Fund—a $5 million grant initiative designed to accelerate small business growth with grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000! But this isn't just about funding. Discover how the Catalyst Fund offers holistic business support—from hands-on advisory services to strategic guidance—and is actively seeking innovative businesses in manufacturing, technology, creative sectors, and beyond. Leslie breaks down eligibility requirements, the application timeline, what makes a standout application, and the wraparound services included to ensure long-term success. Plus, get the inside scoop on other powerful Philadelphia Commerce Department programs and the impact these resources can have on your business. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice, encouragement, and the information you need to seize this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss your chance to scale up your business—tune in now and find out how you can get involved with the Catalyst Fund and other game-changing resources Philly has to offer!

Are you a small business owner in Philadelphia ready to take your business to the next level? In this episode, host Zakia Ringgold sits down with Leslie Acosta, a seasoned educator, and the Outreach & Engagement Manager for the Philadelphia Department of Commerce. Leslie unveils all the details on the city’s brand new Catalyst Fund—a $5 million grant initiative designed to accelerate small business growth with grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000!But this isn't just about funding. Discover how the Catalyst Fund offers holistic business support—from hands-on advisory services to strategic guidance—and is actively seeking innovative businesses in manufacturing, technology, creative sectors, and beyond. Leslie breaks down eligibility requirements, the application timeline, what makes a standout application, and the wraparound services included to ensure long-term success.Plus, get the inside scoop on other powerful Philadelphia Commerce Department programs and the impact these resources can have on your business. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice, encouragement, and the information you need to seize this exciting opportunity.Don’t miss your chance to scale up your business—tune in now and find out how you can get involved with the Catalyst Fund and other game-changing resources Philly has to offer!

Philadelphia Catalyst Grant: Fueling Innovation and Opportunity for Local Entrepreneurs

In this episode of Scale Up Your Business, Zakia Ringgold sits down with the innovative Candace Johnson, creator of the Touchy Feely Intimacy Card Game. Dive into a conversation filled with intentionality and exploration as Candace shares the inspiration behind this universal play game designed to foster genuine connections through communication and physical energy. Learn about her journey from a television news producer to game creator, her insights into the true meaning of intimacy and pleasure, and the valuable lessons she's learned while scaling her business. Candace opens up about the challenges and triumphs in bringing her vision to life, emphasizing the importance of understanding your market and the power of community support. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or someone intrigued by the dynamics of building meaningful relationships, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and a compelling glimpse into Candace's mission to transform how we connect with others. Tune in to discover how the Touchy Feely game is not just a product, but a tool for healing and connectivity. Learn more about the Scale Up Your Business Program at: <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">La21philly.org</a> Get The Touchy Feely Intimacy Card Game on Candace's website: <a href="https://touchyfeelygame.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://touchyfeelygame.com/</a>

In this episode of Scale Up Your Business, Zakia Ringgold sits down with the innovative Candace Johnson, creator of the Touchy Feely Intimacy Card Game. Dive into a conversation filled with intentionality and exploration as Candace shares the inspiration behind this universal play game designed to foster genuine connections through communication and physical energy. Learn about her journey from a television news producer to game creator, her insights into the true meaning of intimacy and pleasure, and the valuable lessons she's learned while scaling her business. Candace opens up about the challenges and triumphs in bringing her vision to life, emphasizing the importance of understanding your market and the power of community support. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking inspiration or someone intrigued by the dynamics of building meaningful relationships, this episode promises a wealth of knowledge and a compelling glimpse into Candace's mission to transform how we connect with others. Tune in to discover how the Touchy Feely game is not just a product, but a tool for healing and connectivity.Learn more about the Scale Up Your Business Program at: La21philly.orgGet The Touchy Feely Intimacy Card Game on Candace's website: https://touchyfeelygame.com/

Exploring Emotional Connections: The Touchy Feely Intimacy Card Game with Candace Johnson

Today, we're thrilled to have Latoya Johnson, the dynamic founder of Natural Body Essentials, as our guest. Latoya’s journey began with a personal quest to alleviate her family's eczema and has since blossomed into a booming skincare brand offering over 40 natural products. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story from medical professional to skincare entrepreneur, her top-selling products, and the importance of education in her business model. Latoya also dives into the challenges of running a business, the rewards of customer feedback, and her ambitious goals for the future. Tune in to hear valuable insights and advice from Latoya on building a successful and authentic skincare business. Visit Latoya's website at: <a href="https://naturalbodyessentialsshop.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://naturalbodyessentialsshop.com/</a> Learn more about the Scale Up program at: https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/

Today, we're thrilled to have Latoya Johnson, the dynamic founder of Natural Body Essentials, as our guest. Latoya’s journey began with a personal quest to alleviate her family's eczema and has since blossomed into a booming skincare brand offering over 40 natural products. In this episode, she shares her inspiring story from medical professional to skincare entrepreneur, her top-selling products, and the importance of education in her business model. Latoya also dives into the challenges of running a business, the rewards of customer feedback, and her ambitious goals for the future. Tune in to hear valuable insights and advice from Latoya on building a successful and authentic skincare business.Visit Latoya's website at: https://naturalbodyessentialsshop.com/Learn more about the Scale Up program at: https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/

Scaling Up with Latoya Johnson: The Natural Body Essentials Story

Keisha is a passionate entrepreneur who brings hands-on, virtual cooking classes to the Philadelphia and tri-state area. In this episode, Keisha shares her journey from being a new parent discovering a gap in home-cooked meals to becoming an influential mobile cooking instructor. We delve into her unique business concept, the challenges she's faced in balancing work and home life, and her impactful experiences teaching various age groups. Keisha's story is a testament to the power of finding your niche, adapting business models, and the importance of life skills such as cooking. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into her future aspirations for her business and invaluable advice for other small business owners. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on scaling your business with a mix of passion and purpose! Learn more about Keisha: <a href="https://g.co/kgs/KkN2TGj" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://g.co/kgs/KkN2TGj</a>

Keisha is a passionate entrepreneur who brings hands-on, virtual cooking classes to the Philadelphia and tri-state area. In this episode, Keisha shares her journey from being a new parent discovering a gap in home-cooked meals to becoming an influential mobile cooking instructor. We delve into her unique business concept, the challenges she's faced in balancing work and home life, and her impactful experiences teaching various age groups. Keisha's story is a testament to the power of finding your niche, adapting business models, and the importance of life skills such as cooking. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into her future aspirations for her business and invaluable advice for other small business owners. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on scaling your business with a mix of passion and purpose!Learn more about Keisha: https://g.co/kgs/KkN2TGj

Teaching Cooking to Kids and Adults with Keisha Prosser: The Mobile Cooking Teacher

In this episode, Atiya shares her incredible journey from mixing herbs in her mother's kitchen to creating a holistic wellness product line that now reaches clients as far as Germany. We'll dive into her deep-rooted passion for natural remedies, the lessons she learned from her supportive mother, and the pivotal role of community and resilience in her entrepreneurial path. Atiya also offers invaluable advice for aspiring business owners on being magnetic and the importance of a positive support system. Stay tuned as she reveals exclusive details about her upcoming seasonal product launch that's sure to tantalize your taste buds! Get ready to be inspired and motivated by Atiya Isan on today's episode of Scale Up Your Business. Check out the show notes at: <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

In this episode, Atiya shares her incredible journey from mixing herbs in her mother's kitchen to creating a holistic wellness product line that now reaches clients as far as Germany. We'll dive into her deep-rooted passion for natural remedies, the lessons she learned from her supportive mother, and the pivotal role of community and resilience in her entrepreneurial path. Atiya also offers invaluable advice for aspiring business owners on being magnetic and the importance of a positive support system. Stay tuned as she reveals exclusive details about her upcoming seasonal product launch that's sure to tantalize your taste buds! Get ready to be inspired and motivated by Atiya Isan on today's episode of Scale Up Your Business.Check out the show notes at: https://la21philly.org

Scaling Up Naturally: The Journey of Atiya Isan and Isans Naturals

For small business owners seeking actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen. Carissa Reiniger, CEO of Silver Lining, breaks down how traditional coaching and training often fall short for entrepreneurs. Instead, she champions behavior-based support systems tailored to help owners build sustainable habits and achieve lasting change. With over 20 years of experience, Carissa discusses the core challenges small business owners face, from unrealistic goals to lack of focus, and offers an alternative approach that emphasizes commitment, realistic goals, peer accountability, and long-term support. Tune in to learn how Carissa’s SLAP methodology, already impacting 15,000 businesses globally, could provide the structured, human-centered support your business needs to thrive in today’s demanding market. This episode is filled with insights that can help reshape how you approach growth, define success, and engage with your business.

For small business owners seeking actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen. Carissa Reiniger, CEO of Silver Lining, breaks down how traditional coaching and training often fall short for entrepreneurs. Instead, she champions behavior-based support systems tailored to help owners build sustainable habits and achieve lasting change. With over 20 years of experience, Carissa discusses the core challenges small business owners face, from unrealistic goals to lack of focus, and offers an alternative approach that emphasizes commitment, realistic goals, peer accountability, and long-term support.Tune in to learn how Carissa’s SLAP methodology, already impacting 15,000 businesses globally, could provide the structured, human-centered support your business needs to thrive in today’s demanding market. This episode is filled with insights that can help reshape how you approach growth, define success, and engage with your business.

Building Resilient Small Businesses Through Behavior Change with Silver Lining

Learn how a pandemic pivot turned Jonathan's side hustle into a business success. Jonathan shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the invaluable lessons he's learned from the ScaleUp program. Find out what makes GoFor Delivery stand out and get insider tips that could transform your own business. Hit play and get ready to be inspired!  Access show notes and learn more at <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

Learn how a pandemic pivot turned Jonathan's side hustle into a business success. Jonathan shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the invaluable lessons he's learned from the ScaleUp program. Find out what makes GoFor Delivery stand out and get insider tips that could transform your own business. Hit play and get ready to be inspired! Access show notes and learn more at https://la21philly.org

GoFor Delivery: Inside Jonathan McLeod’s Business Journey

If you've ever wondered how to turn your artistic hobbies into a thriving business, this episode is for you! Join us in this episode as Nicole Dupree, founder of Indigo and Green, shares her journey from hobbyist to business owner. Learn how she creates unique, eco-friendly products and explore her TV show that takes you into the heart of nature. Tune in for inspiring stories, creative tips, and find out how embracing your creativity can transform your life and business. Don’t miss out—hit play now!  Learn more and access show notes at: <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

If you've ever wondered how to turn your artistic hobbies into a thriving business, this episode is for you! Join us in this episode as Nicole Dupree, founder of Indigo and Green, shares her journey from hobbyist to business owner. Learn how she creates unique, eco-friendly products and explore her TV show that takes you into the heart of nature. Tune in for inspiring stories, creative tips, and find out how embracing your creativity can transform your life and business. Don’t miss out—hit play now! Learn more and access show notes at: https://la21philly.org

Exploring Artisan Entrepreneurship with Indigo in Green's Nicole Dupree

Listen to the inspiring journey of Marie Jeanne Aka, founder of Shining Light Green Cleaning Services. Learn how she turned natural ingredients like lemons and vinegar into eco-friendly cleaning products, and her plans to create jobs in Philadelphia. Find valuable business tips, the importance of perseverance, and how Marie uses AI to boost her company. Tune in for an episode full of innovation, resilience, and green cleaning solutions that could change the way you think about cleaning! Access show notes and more at <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

Listen to the inspiring journey of Marie Jeanne Aka, founder of Shining Light Green Cleaning Services. Learn how she turned natural ingredients like lemons and vinegar into eco-friendly cleaning products, and her plans to create jobs in Philadelphia. Find valuable business tips, the importance of perseverance, and how Marie uses AI to boost her company. Tune in for an episode full of innovation, resilience, and green cleaning solutions that could change the way you think about cleaning!Access show notes and more at https://la21philly.org

Shining Light Green Cleaning: Eco-Friendly Innovations for Healthier Commercial Spaces

Discover the extraordinary journey of Nzingha Ma'at and her innovative approach to healing in this episode of Scale Up Your Business! Learn how she helps people overcome tough issues like anxiety and imposter syndrome by blending traditional talk therapy with unique methods like acupuncture, yoga, and sound healing. Get ready to be inspired by Nzingha's story of turning her passion into a thriving business. Tune in to find out how you can take charge of your own well-being and unlock the secrets of holistic healing! Don't miss out on this eye-opening episode—hit play now! Access Show notes and resources at <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

Discover the extraordinary journey of Nzingha Ma'at and her innovative approach to healing in this episode of Scale Up Your Business! Learn how she helps people overcome tough issues like anxiety and imposter syndrome by blending traditional talk therapy with unique methods like acupuncture, yoga, and sound healing. Get ready to be inspired by Nzingha's story of turning her passion into a thriving business. Tune in to find out how you can take charge of your own well-being and unlock the secrets of holistic healing! Don't miss out on this eye-opening episode—hit play now!Access Show notes and resources at https://la21philly.org

Unlocking Holistic Healing: The Story Behind MA'AT Therapeutic Services

Listen to this episode where Marisia Robinson of Seed, Weed, Reap, shares her journey from corporate downsizing to teaching communities how to grow their own food sustainably. Discover the top gardening tips everyone asks her about and learn how she uses Facebook groups to connect and grow her audience. Plus, get insider advice on valuing your time and knowing your customer to scale up your business. Hit play to uncover Marisia's secrets to success! Access show notes and learn more at <a href="https://la21philly.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://la21philly.org</a>

Listen to this episode where Marisia Robinson of Seed, Weed, Reap, shares her journey from corporate downsizing to teaching communities how to grow their own food sustainably. Discover the top gardening tips everyone asks her about and learn how she uses Facebook groups to connect and grow her audience. Plus, get insider advice on valuing your time and knowing your customer to scale up your business. Hit play to uncover Marisia's secrets to success!Access show notes and learn more at https://la21philly.org

Marisia Robinson's Journey from Corporate Life to Garden Guru

Scale Up Your Business goes beyond the success story to explore what it really takes to build, strengthen, and grow a business. Hosted by Zakia Ringgold, the show brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, resource partners, and the people working behind the scenes to strengthen the small business ecosystem. Each conversation uncovers real experiences, practical lessons, valuable resources, and the relationships that help business owners move from where they are to where they want to go.

Scale Up Your Business goes beyond the success story to explore what it really takes to build, strengthen, and grow a business. Hosted by Zakia Ringgold, the show brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, resource partners, and the people working behind the scenes to strengthen the small business ecosystem. Each conversation uncovers real experiences, practical lessons, valuable resources, and the relationships that help business owners move from where they are to where they want to go.

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Scale Up Your Business

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