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Published by John Lane
Welcome to Small Business Strong! On this channel, I sit down with entrepreneurs in the hunting, fishing, and outdoor industries to uncover the real stories behind their businesses. We go beyond the products and services to talk about how they got started, the challenges they overcame, the problems they solve for their customers, and where they’re headed next. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring business owner, or simply enjoy hearing inspiring stories, you’ll find honest conversations packed with practical business lessons
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Mike Marino was serving as a full-time pastor when a disappointing set of store-bought decoys changed the direction of his life. They didn’t look like real ducks—and Mike believed he could create something better. With help from an experienced mentor, Mike began learning how to carve and paint lifelike working decoys. What started as a creative outlet grew into Marino Decoys and eventually gave him the opportunity to pursue decoy carving full-time. In this episode of Small Business Strong, Mike shares how mentorship accelerated his growth, what it took to turn craftsmanship into a business, and why his mission of “Just One More” reaches far beyond duck hunting. If you’re an outdoor entrepreneur, craftsman, or someone wondering whether your passion could become a business, Mike’s story will challenge you to start—and keep improving. Learn more about Mike’s hand-carved decoys at MarinoDecoys.com . Small Business Strong—where entrepreneurs meet the outdoor industry.
Dale started with just $500 and a willingness to work—and what began as a business building and selling quail cages and supplies has grown into something much bigger. In this episode of Small Business Strong, Dale from Dale’s Quails Acres shares how he built the business from the ground up, the sacrifices required along the way, and why regenerative farming has become such an important part of his mission. Dale and his family have transitioned the business from primarily manufacturing quail cages and supplies into a full-fledged regenerative farm. Today, they raise fresh produce and animals for meat while working to improve the land, strengthen the soil, and produce food in a more responsible and sustainable way. This conversation is about more than quail or farming. It’s about starting small, persevering through difficult seasons, allowing your vision to evolve, and building a business around principles that truly matter to you. If you enjoy honest conversations with the entrepreneurs building America’s hunting, fishing, farming, and outdoor businesses, subscribe to Small Business Strong for more stories like Dale’s.
Johnathan of Red Beard Outdoors joins Small Business Strong to talk about what it really takes to build an outdoor podcast and media brand. Jonathan shares why relationships are the key to successful sponsorships, strong brand partnerships, and long-term growth—and why simply chasing followers isn’t enough. We also talk about building an authentic brand identity, monetizing an outdoor podcast, faith, family, and the lessons Jonathan has learned while growing Red Beard Outdoors . Small Business Strong brings you real conversations with entrepreneurs and small business owners about what it takes to build something that lasts.
How do you launch a product in the hunting industry? Todd Ezzi saw a need for a dog stand that was lightweight, strong, and practical —so he went into his garage and built one himself. What started as a solution to his own problem has grown into Rixey Outdoors , producing quality dog stands at a great price. In this episode of Small Business Strong , Todd shares the story of how that garage-built idea became a real business. Looking for a lightweight, durable dog stand? Check out Rixey Outdoors . https://rixeyoutdoors.com/ Have a small-business story or know someone who should be on the podcast? Email us at smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Subscribe to Small Business Strong for more full-length conversations with entrepreneurs building businesses from the ground up. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https ://www.patreon.com/c/SmallBusinessStrong?utm_source=campaign-search-results
How do you start a successful deer feed company? In this episode of Small Business Strong , I sit down with Marlon (Catfish) and Willa Glover , founders of MTX , to talk about what it really looks like to build a business while keeping God at the center. We discuss the lessons God taught them before their company began to grow, the importance of serving customers well, what makes MTX different, and the challenges every entrepreneur faces when quitting seems easier than pressing on. They also share how marriage, faith, and business work together, the mistakes they’ve learned from, and what they hope their legacy will be when it’s all said and done. Whether you’re building a business, leading a family, or simply trying to be faithful where God has you today, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with another entrepreneur. Connect with MTX: https://www.facebook.com/MTXtrailmix https://www.instagram.com/mtxtrailmix/ Follow Small Business Strong: Instagram: @smallbusinessstrongpodcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmallBusinessStrong Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/small-business-strong/id1847801374 Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong
How do you start a successful fish farm? In Episode 23 of Small Business Strong , I sit down with Mike Freeze , owner of Keo Fish Farms , to hear the story of how he purchased a fish farm and helped grow it into one of the leading aquaculture businesses in the country. Mike shares the challenges of buying an established business, growing it over decades, adapting to industry changes, and producing hybrid striped bass and triploid grass carp. We also discuss leadership, customer relationships, hiring great people, long-term decision-making, and the lessons he’s learned after nearly 50 years in the aquaculture industry. Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind successful companies, this episode is packed with practical business wisdom from someone who has built a lasting legacy. In this episode: How Mike Freeze bought Keo Fish Farms Growing a fish farm into an industry leader The business of aquaculture Producing hybrid striped bass and triploid grass carp Leadership and long-term business growth Lessons learned from nearly 50 years in business Advice for the next generation of entrepreneurs About Small Business Strong Small Business Strong is the podcast where successful entrepreneurs share the real stories behind the businesses they’ve built—the wins, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way. If you enjoy honest conversations with business owners and want practical insights you can apply to your own journey, be sure to follow the show and share this episode with another entrepreneur. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong
How do you start a boat building company? In this episode of Small Business Strong , I sit down with Louis Perrero , founder of South Dade Skiffs , to hear the story behind one of the most unique skiff manufacturers in the country. Louis opens up about:-How South Dade Skiffs got its name-His life before sobriety-Working as a deckhand on luxury yachts-The painful fishing accident that put a hook through his leg-Building his very first fiberglass boat-The financial risk of creating his first mold and launching a company-What he’d do if he had to rebuild everything from scratch-The legacy he hopes to leave behind. This isn’t just a conversation about boats—it’s about resilience, craftsmanship, second chances, and what it really takes to build something meaningful. If you’re an entrepreneur, outdoorsman, fisherman, or someone chasing a dream, this episode is for you.👍 If you enjoyed this conversation, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who loves small business and the outdoors. Connect with South Dade Skiffs on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/southdadeskiff Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong
How do you start a duck call company? In this episode of Small Business Strong , I sit down with Joey D’Amico , founder of Tekton Game Calls , to discuss faith, entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and the importance of keeping your identity rooted in Christ rather than your career. Joey shares the story behind Tekton Game Calls, explains the biblical meaning of the name “Tekton,” and talks about using his business as a platform to share the gospel. We also discuss the pride God had to strip away in his life, what has allowed Tekton to stand out in the outdoor industry, and the difficult seasons that shaped him into the man he is today. Whether you’re building a business, pursuing excellence in your craft, or simply seeking to honor God through your work, this conversation is full of practical wisdom and encouragement. • The story behind Tekton Game Calls • Why your identity should never be your business • Sharing the gospel through entrepreneurship • Faith, family, and business priorities • Building products with excellence • Standing out in a competitive industry • Rebuilding a business from scratch • Legacy, fatherhood, and following Christ Connect with Joey & Tekton Game Calls: Website: https://www.tektongamecalls.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tektongamecalls Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TektonGameCalls For guest recommendations, sponsorship opportunities, or business inquiries: smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow Small Business Strong on Spotify and leave a rating. Every follow and review helps us reach more entrepreneurs who are striving to build successful businesses without compromising what matters most. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong
How do you start a deer feeder company? In this episode of Small Business Strong , I sit down with James Reed , founder of MAG Feeders , to talk about far more than deer feeders. We discuss faith, family, sacrifice, perseverance, and what it really takes to build something that lasts. James shares the story behind his first homemade prototype, the obstacles his family faced along the way, and why his motto, “Keep A Diggin’,” has become more than just a saying—it’s a way of life. We also dive into: How MAG Feeders got its start The role faith has played throughout the journey The sacrifices required to build a business Advice for anyone dreaming of becoming an entrepreneur What James hopes people remember long after the business is gone Whether you’re building a company, chasing a dream, or simply need encouragement to keep going, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humility, and hope. Keep A Diggin’. Small Business Strong is a podcast sharing the real stories behind small business owners—the struggles, setbacks, victories, and lessons that shaped them into the people they are today. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a rating, and share it with someone who could use the encouragement. Business inquiries, guest recommendations, or questions: smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong
What does it really take to own a successful small business? In this episode of Small Business Strong , I sit down with Andrew Plagens , owner of Aluminum Alloys, to discuss what it’s like to buy an established business instead of starting one from scratch. Andrew shares why he chose business ownership, the freedom it has created for his family, the unexpected challenges he’s faced, and the lessons he’s learned leading a company in the aluminum industry. Whether you’re thinking about buying a business, becoming an entrepreneur, or you’re already running a company, this conversation is packed with honest insights about the highs and lows of ownership. In this episode, we cover: • Why Andrew decided to buy an existing business • The freedom and responsibility that come with entrepreneurship • Challenges every business owner should expect • Leadership and decision-making under pressure • The future of the aluminum industry and where Andrew sees the company going If you’re an entrepreneur, aspiring business owner, or simply enjoy hearing real stories from people building great companies, this episode is for you. Like this video if you enjoyed the conversation. Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway. Subscribe for weekly conversations with entrepreneurs, tradespeople, and business owners who are building something meaningful. Join the Small Business Strong Community Want to go behind the scenes and be part of the show? Join Small Business Strong on Patreon for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes updates, and opportunities to help shape future episodes and submit questions for upcoming guests. Become a member: https://www.patreon.com/cw/SmallBusinessStrong
Should homeowners buy their own materials, or should the contractor handle it? In this episode of Small Business Strong, we break down when homeowners should buy fixtures, tile, paint colors, and finishes — and when contractors should handle materials for better quality, durability, and fewer problems. We also cover the biggest mistakes that cause delays, surprise costs, and frustration during remodeling projects. If you’re a homeowner, DIYer, landlord, or contractor, this episode will help you save time, money, and headaches on your next project. Questions or comments? smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Handiwork Startup System- https://handiwork.gumroad.com/l/HandiworkStartupSystem
Before you start your next paint project, these 7 simple painting tips can save you time, money, and frustration — and help your walls look cleaner, smoother, and more professional. In this episode of Small Business Strong, I’m sharing practical painting advice every homeowner should know before picking up a brush or roller. Whether you’re painting one room, freshening up your house before selling, or trying to make your home look more valuable on a budget, the right process makes a huge difference. A good paint job is not just about picking a color. It’s about choosing the right sheen, doing the prep work, cutting clean lines, rolling the right way, keeping a wet edge, using the right roller, and buying paint that actually covers well. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why choosing the right sheen matters before you start painting - When to use flat, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss paint - Why prep work is what makes a paint job look professional - Why painter’s tape is not a complete painting strategy - Why you should cut first, then roll - How keeping a wet edge helps prevent paint lines and flashing - Why an 18-inch roller can save time on large walls and rooms - Why cheap paint can cost you more in the long run If you’re a homeowner who wants better-looking walls without wasting time or money, this episode will help you avoid common DIY painting mistakes and get a cleaner, more consistent finish. A professional-looking paint job comes down to patience, prep, and using the right process. If you have questions, you can email me at: smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com Hosted by John Lane Small Business Strong
Got burning homeowner questions? In this Q&A episode of Small Business Strong, handyman and home improvement expert John Lane draws on years of field experience to answer the questions he hears most. From cheap upgrades that actually add value, to spotting a trustworthy contractor, pulling permits, knowing what to fix first, and decoding those cracks in your drywall — this episode is packed with real, actionable advice. No fluff, just straight talk from someone who’s been in the trenches. Perfect for first-time homeowners and seasoned homeowners alike.
Most homeowners assume a 4.9-star contractor with hundreds of reviews must be trustworthy. But in today’s world of fake review farms, review gating, and reputation manipulation, that rating may not mean what you think it does. In this episode of Small Business Strong, John Lane explains how online reviews are being manipulated in the home service industry and gives homeowners practical ways to protect themselves before hiring a contractor. You’ll learn: How fake contractor reviews work The biggest red flags homeowners miss Why negative reviews can actually be a good sign How to properly vet a handyman or contractor Why personal referrals still beat algorithms This episode is for homeowners, small business owners, and anyone trying to avoid costly contractor mistakes.
May is your last chance. Every June, phones start blowing up with emergency calls that could’ve been prevented with a few simple steps in May. In this episode, I walk you through a practical checklist to get your home ready before the Texas heat hits. We cover: Why your AC system needs attention NOW (not in June) How your attic could be silently driving up your energy bill Easy fixes for windows, doors, and weatherstripping that actually make a difference Foundation warning signs most homeowners miss Outdoor systems If you’re a homeowner, this episode can save you time and money. Pick one thing from this list and knock it out this weekend. If this helps you, share it with a neighbor. Someone on your street needs to hear it.
Learn how to start a handyman business step-by-step—even with no experience—and how to realistically grow. In this episode of Small Business Strong, I break down exactly how to get your first jobs, what tools you actually need, how to price your work, and how to build momentum fast. No fluff—just real-world advice from running a handyman business every day. ⸻ What you’ll learn: • How to get your first handyman jobs • What tools you actually need • How to price jobs (not hourly) • How to build trust and get referrals If you’re thinking about starting your own handyman business, check out my Handiwork Startup System — a simple step-by-step guide to launching a referral-based handyman company. https://handiwork.gumroad.com/l/HandiworkStartupSystem Connect with Small Business Strong: Email: smallbusinessstrongpodcast@gmail.com
Not every fence needs to be replaced—but not every fence should be repaired either. In this episode, I break down how to tell the difference so you don’t waste money making the wrong call. We cover when repair actually makes sense, when replacement is the smarter move, and how to think about cost, longevity, and long-term value. If you’re dealing with a leaning, aging, or damaged fence, this will help you make the right decision the first time.
Homes require constant maintenance—but the real issue isn’t maintenance… it’s what gets ignored.In this episode of Small Business Strong, I break down the top 5 things I personally see causing serious (and expensive) damage in homes—the stuff most homeowners don’t even realize is a problem until it’s too late.This isn’t theory. This is what I see every week in real houses.🔧 What We Cover: 1. Drywall CracksWhen they’re normal vs when they’re a problemWhy foundation movement is expectedWhy cracks over 1/4” matterIt’s not just the crack—it’s how fast it’s changing2. Foundation Corners (Slab Homes)Why corners show problems firstWhat cracks to look forSigns like doors not closing properly3. Toilets & Hidden LeaksBad wax rings (smell = problem)Silent leaks you won’t notice until damage is doneBidet attachments and why they can flood a house4. Water Issues (Biggest Money Killer)How to check your water meter for hidden leaksWhy every homeowner should have a water meter keyWater heater checks + why you should drain it yearly5. Baseboards = Early Warning SystemSwelling, discoloration, or separationOne of the easiest ways to catch a leak early⚠️ What to Watch For:Problems getting worse over timeAny signs of moisture or waterMovement (shifting, cracking, separating)🛠️ When to Call a Handyman vs a Specialist:Cosmetic issues → HandymanStructural or major water issues → Specialist💡 Bottom Line:Most problems in a home are normal.But ignoring the wrong ones… is what gets expensive.If you’re a homeowner and want to avoid costly repairs, this episode will save you money.
In Episode 10, I break down the real reasons why so many homeowners end up getting ripped off by contractors and handymen. It’s not always bad intentions—most of the time, it comes down to poor decisions, unclear expectations, and lack of communication. I walk through 6 (really 5) common mistakes homeowners make, including choosing the cheapest bid, not getting a clear scope of work, and failing to ask the right questions upfront. If you’re planning a project or hiring someone to work on your home, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions. Key Takeaways: Why referrals matter more than anything The danger of choosing the lowest bid Why everything must be in writing How communication can make or break a project What to ask before any job starts If you follow these principles, you’ll dramatically reduce your chances of getting taken advantage of.
In this episode, I talk about a shift in the direction of Small Business Strong. I’ll still be interviewing other business owners, but moving forward I’m going to spend more time breaking down what it actually looks like to run my handyman business day to day. From pricing and mistakes to the reality behind the scenes, this episode sets the foundation for what’s coming next. If you’re running a business or thinking about starting one, this will give you a real look at what it takes.
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Apple Podcasts rankings via the Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed September 13, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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