Ecosystem Builder Interview with Michael Scales, Small Business Consultant

One of the most important considerations in economic development is securing those opportunities for generational wealth and development. Today’s guest is a perfect example of someone that not only has an impressive lifetime of economic development himself but helps others do the same. This week, episode 5 of Entrepreneurship on the RISE Podcast is about a lifetime of ecosystem building. 

CO.STARTERS Generator is a modular self-paced program that helps middle school, high school, and college students explore their passions through generating, testing, and launching ideas for businesses and social ventures. With the ability to participate individually or with a classroom or community group, CO.STARTERS Generator is a great way to inspire youth with the vision, enthusiasm, and tenacity needed to move from idea to action. 

In this episode of Entrepreneurship on the RISE Podcast, Jacob and Lauren, joined by their guest Michael Scales are sharing the value in being able to predict and plan for the challenges small businesses may face and continuing a legacy with a life dedicated to giving back.

Michael Scales headshot April 2022

Michael Scales

Consultant with the Longwood University Small Business Development Center (SBDC) | Martinsville, VA

In this episode, we sat down with Michael Scales, who is a consultant with the Longwood University Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Based in Martinsville, Virginia, Michael serves entrepreneurs in Martinsville, Henry County, and Patrick County, Virginia.

Key Takeaways

  • How Michael teaches critical thinking to be able to predict when it is time to make a pivot in business. 
  • How the industrial DNA engrained in Henry and Patrick county in southern Virginia impacts what we can expect to see in the future. 
  • The impact that the economy and technical advances have on generational wealth. 
  • How profit sharing leads to higher employee retention through job satisfaction.  
  • The unique challenges that small businesses face when it comes to getting off the ground and scaling.

Every company, no matter how big or small, is an integral part in working together to build the community as a whole. 

Longwood SBDC Virginia logo

About the Longwood SBDC

As a small business resource for 30 years, the Longwood Small Business Development Center’s (LSBDC) core mission is to provide education, consulting, and economic research to support potential and existing small business owners throughout Southern Virginia. The SBDC program at Longwood University is positioned as an economic development outreach program under the umbrella of the Office of Community and Economic Development. The center’s effectiveness is measured in the success of our clients. Results are measured in terms of client capital investment and jobs created. Learn more and sign up for free business advising at https://sbdc-longwood.com

CONNECT WITH MICHAEL SCALES:

Longwood Small Business Development Center

 

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: 

Download Longwood Small Business Development Center’s Book The Entrepreneur’s Business Planning Guide 

Books and Crannies