Scale Up Your Business

Building Stability Before Life Happens With Craig Lytle

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/ [https://iandeplanning.com/] Learn more about the Scale Up training program at: https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/ [https://www.la21philly.org/programs/scale-up-program/]

Building a Service Business with Scent Detection Canines

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 [https://la21philly.org]

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

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 [https://la21philly.org]

Philadelphia Catalyst Grant: Fueling Innovation and Opportunity for Local Entrepreneurs

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!

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

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.org [https://la21philly.org] Get The Touchy Feely Intimacy Card Game on Candace's website: https://touchyfeelygame.com/ [https://touchyfeelygame.com/]