Episode 77: Luis A. Rodriguez, President & CEO, San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

Episode 84: Carolyn Brand, Founder and CEO, SpanHR

In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Carolyn Brand discusses how Span HR helps scaling businesses navigate the people challenges that emerge during rapid growth. Carolyn explains how her team provides integrated HR support tailored to a company’s stage of development, stepping in with everything from hiring and onboarding to employee relations and operational structure. She shares how founders often become overwhelmed managing people operations while trying to scale their businesses, and how Span HR helps relieve that pressure by building systems that support long-term growth, leadership transition, and organizational stability. Carolyn also dives into the realities of growing her own business, sharing insights on leadership, marketing, and the mindset challenges that come with entrepreneurship. She talks about the importance of operational documentation, networking, and relationship-driven business development, while emphasizing that many CEOs struggle with the emotional weight of scaling a company. Throughout the conversation, Carolyn offers practical advice for founders on recognizing growth-related warning signs, building sustainable infrastructure, and understanding that the right people systems can become a major catalyst for business success. Connect: Website: https://spanhr.com/ [https://spanhr.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynannbrand/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynannbrand/]

Episode 83: Myrto Koimtzoglou, Chief Operating Officer, Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union

In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Myrto Koimtzoglou shares her journey from global banking and legal compliance into the mission-driven world of credit unions. Drawing from her experience at major financial institutions, Myrto explains how she found greater purpose and impact at Farmers Insurance Federal Credit Union, where the focus is centered on community, member relationships, and personalized financial solutions. She discusses the organization’s commitment to becoming a trusted financial partner for individuals, families, and small businesses through tailored services, innovative banking products, and a strong culture of listening to member feedback. Myrto also offers an inside look at the credit union’s ambitious transformation and growth strategy, including digital modernization, expanded business banking services, and the opening of a new branch in Burbank. She explains how operational excellence, agility, and member-focused decision-making are driving the organization forward as it evolves beyond traditional banking models. Throughout the conversation, Myrto highlights the importance of understanding customer needs, building strong financial infrastructure, and helping small businesses thrive through thoughtful banking partnerships and customized financial tools. Connect: Website: https://figfcu.org/ [https://figfcu.org/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/myrto-koimtzoglou-58975a6/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/myrto-koimtzoglou-58975a6/]

Episode 82: Sean Hicks, CEO and founder, New Leaf Service Contracts Inc.

In this episode of the Think Small podcast, Sean Hicks, founder and CEO of New Leaf Service Contracts, shares how his company carved out a niche in the extended warranty and service contract industry by focusing on independent and regional retailers often overlooked by larger competitors. Sean explains how New Leaf helps retailers compete against big-box stores through customized protection plans, customer-focused service, and innovative offerings like store credit reimbursements and fast repair guarantees. He also discusses the importance of relationships in building the business and how steady, incremental improvements have fueled the company’s long-term growth. Sean also reflects on the major challenges New Leaf has faced, from navigating explosive 40% year-over-year growth to surviving the operational disruptions caused by COVID-19. He opens up about difficult decisions around staffing, outsourcing, and adapting to shifting consumer expectations in an increasingly demanding marketplace. Along the way, Sean offers valuable insight into leadership, customer service, automation, and the future of independent retailers in industries like appliances, electronics, and furniture. His perspective highlights why personalized service and strong retailer relationships continue to give smaller businesses a competitive edge in a rapidly changing economy. Connect: Website: https://trynewleaf.com/ [https://trynewleaf.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhicks/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/seanhicks/]

Episode 81: Christine Hopkins, President & CEO, ASCI LLC

In this episode of the Think Small podcast, Christine Hopkins, President and CEO of ASCI, shares the remarkable story of transforming a supply chain management company through one of the most difficult business environments imaginable. From her unconventional transition out of HR and into operations leadership, Christine explains how ASCI built its reputation by embedding directly into clients’ operations and helping organizations manage everything from procurement and warehousing to inventory optimization and surplus asset recovery. She also reflects on the leadership lessons she learned from the company’s founder, including the importance of culture, influence, and putting people first in a service-driven business. Christine also opens up about leading ASCI through a devastating 90% revenue collapse during the COVID era as the company’s oil and gas contracts disappeared almost overnight. She discusses the difficult decisions required to keep the business alive, the transparency that helped retain her core team, and the strategic pivot into federal contracting that ultimately stabilized the company. Along the way, she shares valuable insights on sustainable growth, scaling operations responsibly, building strong professional networks, and why business leaders should never try to navigate major challenges alone. Connect: Website: https://www.ascillc.com/ [https://www.ascillc.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineehopkins/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineehopkins/]

Episode 80: Daniel Wachter, President & CEO, Colorado Symphony

In this episode of the Think Small Podcast, Daniel shares his passion for building meaningful connections, creating transformational experiences, and helping others think differently about business, leadership, and personal growth. Drawing from his work organizing immersive workshops and events, Daniel discusses the importance of authentic conversations, collaboration, and surrounding yourself with people who inspire new perspectives. He also reflects on the power of relationships and how unexpected conversations can open doors to new opportunities and partnerships. Throughout the conversation, Daniel explores the challenges and rewards of bringing ambitious ideas to life, from curating high-value experiences to building a mission-driven business model that creates lasting impact. He emphasizes the importance of community, intentional networking, and staying passionate about the work you do, while also sharing insights into balancing growth, purpose, and personal fulfillment. This episode offers valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to expand their thinking, strengthen their networks, and pursue growth with intention. Connect: Website: https://coloradosymphony.org/ [https://coloradosymphony.org/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwachter/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwachter/]