TYFU is a podcast featuring candid and comical discussions about the challenges and joys of running small businesses.

Episode 20: Molly Whopped

Remember when we talked about the back room being on fire? That's not always a metaphor. This week, Beth and Marilla welcome Anorah co-owner Shawna Shell to talk about the unexpected things that happen to a business that rise to scale of disasters. And, this week's 5-Star review calls for a field trip!

Episode 19: You Look Great in That Hat

So. You're a small business owner. Except you're much more than that. Every day, you have to take on roles you never imagined when you decided to open your own business. In this episode, Beth and Marilla consider the many hats small business owners have to wear. Some fit better than others!

Episode 18: Two Hypocrites Having Tea

'Tis better to give than to receive and Beth and Marilla receive lots of opportunities to give. In this episode, we talk about donations. It's not as simple as just writing a check to a good cause.

Episode 17: No Questions Asked

We may accept your return no questions asked, but we still sometimes have questions. This episode, Beth and Marilla discuss returning everything from shaving brushes to bananas and what returns mean to a small business owner.

Episode 16: The Whole Enchilada

A firm handshake? A warm hug? A quick peck on the cheek? Hold on there! This is a business! In this episode, Beth and Marilla explore the many ways a small business owner has to maintain boundaries. They also welcome special guest Debora Kraeger of Exquisite Wax & Tan who has lots of thoughts on the topic.

Episode 15: Where are the Peas?

When you open a small business you spend months, maybe even years, thinking about every conceivable detail of how that business is going to operate. Still, some customers and clients have a pretty good idea that you've forgotten something fundamental. In this episode, Beth and Marilla share some of their most... memorable... suggestions for operating their small businesses.

Episode 14: Don't Be Batman

We're back! The holidays are behind us, and now that we've had a little time to breathe we're ready for a new season of TYFU. This episode, Beth and Marilla welcome one of our favorite neighbors (and a previous 5-star review recipient), Yvette from Earthly Possessions, for a talk about true crime in retail.

Episode 13: Smacks of the Holidays

Building a small business may be a marathon, not a sprint. But, for retailers the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas are a marathon AND a sprint. In this episode, Beth and Marilla talk about what's coming both for their businesses and the podcast including an announcement about how you can show your love for TYFU.

Episode 12: Buy Me a Drink First

You know how you're not supposed to talk about politics in polite company?
Well, small business isn't always polite and neither is TYFU.
As we approach election day, Beth and Marilla talk about navigating politics in the workplace where so many customers are ready to share their opinions.

Episode 11: The Stuff of Nightmares

Our annual Halloween show.
A TYFU tradition since Episode 11.
Beth and Marilla trade true stories of retail nightmares including an unexpected twist around the grand opening of Marilla's Mindful Supplies Rochester location. Plus, our friend Kevin Dunn stops by with a really spooky tale!

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  • Visit Marilla's Shop!

    Marilla's makes eco friendly easy. Her mission is to keep the world cleaner and to empower community with the belief that the micro dictates the macro. By making small changes in our daily routine, we take big steps towards a brighter future!

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  • Visit Beth's Shop!

    Stomping Grounds offers new and used books, carefully curated gifts, and professional custom picture framing. Inspired by a love of literature and local history, Beth's shop offers an intriguing, unexpected blend of products and services.

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