I’m Katherine Good, your host, and today I had the pleasure of chatting with Charles Alexander, the director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) here in Gallatin. Charles is an incredible resource for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Not only does he provide coaching and training for small businesses, but he’s also an entrepreneur himself, running an explainer video business and recently authoring Start Now, Quit Later. His passion for helping others succeed in business is truly inspiring.
Two Simple (but Powerful) Ways the SBDC Helps Businesses
Charles explained that the SBDC focuses on two key services:
- Low-Cost or Free Business Training
These trainings cover everything from marketing to managing your time. Many of the workshops are now available online, making it easy to learn on your schedule. - Free One-on-One Business Coaching
Whether you’re starting a business or looking to grow, Charles offers personalized coaching to address your specific challenges. With years of experience and a genuine desire to help, Charles is a wealth of knowledge for any small business owner.
From Passion to Purpose
Charles’s own journey as a business owner began with a leap of faith. While helping others grow their businesses, he realized he wanted to take his advice to heart. This led him to start his explainer video business, which has since flourished. His story is a testament to the idea that you can build something great by taking small, intentional steps—even while holding onto a full-time job. His book Start Now, Quit Later emphasizes this approach, showing how you can test your business ideas before going all in.
Tips for Small Business Success
During our conversation, Charles shared some critical advice for entrepreneurs:
- Plan, Don’t Just Dream
Too often, people jump into business without a solid plan. Charles recommends taking the time to map out your goals and strategies. - Balance Passion with Skill
While it’s great to love what you do, you also need to have a skill set that aligns with your business idea. Focus on what you’re good at and build from there. - Track Your Time and Energy
Charles is a big advocate of time tracking to identify where your energy goes. By evaluating your activities, you can focus on what truly matters and eliminate distractions.
Finding Focus Through Good Habits
One of the most insightful parts of our conversation was when Charles discussed how he stays positive and productive. Each morning, he journals to “empty the junk drawer” in his mind, creating space for clarity and focus. This simple habit helps him set the tone for his day. He’s also diligent about managing his energy, limiting time spent on unproductive tasks like excessive email checking or unnecessary meetings.
A Resource for Entrepreneurs
Charles’s work at the SBDC is a lifeline for small business owners, offering guidance, tools, and encouragement. Whether you’re just starting or looking to pivot your business, Charles is here to help. You can reach him at TSBDC.org or learn more about his explainer video services and coaching at YourCharlesAlexander.com.
Charles’s passion for helping others succeed is contagious, and his practical advice is invaluable for anyone navigating the world of entrepreneurship. Thanks for tuning in to A Good Pour, and here’s to all the good work happening in our community!