What is the credit crisis doing to the franchise industry? Joel Libava joins Jim Blasingame to report that the credit crunch is definitely affecting franchise opportunities and what can be done to mitigate the lack of traditional financing.

Why is India more exciting than China, in terms of the global marketplace? Bill Schley joins Jim Blasingame to report on his recent trip to India and why he thinks small businesses should be doing business there.

Survival requires a commitment to marketing. Cliff Ennico and Jim Blasingame talk about the difficult but essential management commitment to a marketing strategy when the economy is not good.

When will the consumer come back in this recovery? Pam Danziger joins Jim Blasingame on Black Friday to discuss what's on the mind of the American consumer as we enter the holiday season.

Government intrusion into the management of big business is a cautionary tale for small business owners, according to Bill Diffenderffer, as he talks with Jim Blasingame about why he's concerned that this country could be losing its capitalist soul.

Joining Jim Blasingame for another Thanksgiving Day visit, Bob Dilenschneider and Jim talk about the many things we have to be thankful for, even when times seem to be so difficult.

Should we be worried about America becoming Europeanized? Bruce Bartlett talks with Jim Blasingame about some of the policies being proposed that look a lot like the socialistic elements of European countries.

What are small business managers are saying about the economy? Bill Soward joins Jim Blasingame to report on the most recent survey of financial professionals and the news continues to be caution and concern.

How is the national economy impacting the financial health of the states? Joan Pryde talks about with Jim Blasingame, including the total record state budget deficits being projected.

Jim Blasingame reveals his thought on why the coming economic recovery will be a marathon and not a sprint, including the the paradoxical issues of unemployment level and increasing productivity.