Small business owners are realists when it comes to the economy, but still optimistic, according to a FedEx survey. Laurie Tucker joins Jim Blasingame to discuss the results of the FedEx Office's "Signs of the Times" national small business study, including the fact that, even in the face of a tough economy, most small businesses are optimistic about their future.

Can a retail small business thrive in this recession? Bob Negen says yes, and he talks with Jim Blasingame about some important tips and best practices on how to effectively market and run a retail business in a slow economy.

How is the craze of social media impacting email and other newer technologies, such as texting and instant messaging? Christina Cavanagh talks with Jim Blasingame about the best ways to blend email with connecting on social media communities and other communicating tools.

How does a small business incorporate a Web 2.o strategy into it's marketing and growth plans? Ken Leebow joins Jim Blasingame to talk about What Web 2.0 is and how to take advantage of the various elements without abandoning what we already are doing.

Green is a movement that is not a fad and today, small businesses can make better eco-friendly choices. Malcolm Rands joins Jim Blasingame to celebrate Earth Month and talk about how to do our part to improve the environment by the products we use.

How has the recession impacted consumer spending? Pam Danziger joins Jim Blasingame to explain how the country's economic situation is affecting the way we manage and spend money today and what our lifestyles will be like after the recession.

Does participating on Twitter qualify as marketing activity? How can a business tell when social media is helping or just stealing your time? Ilise Benun talks with Jim Blasingame about the good, the bad and the ugly of social media for small business.

Are you maximizing the online potential of your business. Carolyn Rhinebarger joins Jim Blasingame to continue the online marketing series, including knowing who your prospects are, what they want, and this is very important, where do they hand out and how do they want you to reach them.

How and how much? Those are the two magic marketing questions small businesses are asking about marketing. Bob Bly joins Jim Blasingame with the answers in the form of perspectives, tips and best practices, especially with regard to paying for search words (pay-per-click) on a local basis. This is really good stuff for local small businesses.

Is it too late for a small business to develop a social media strategy? Jim Blasingame says it's not too late, but it's time to get started with your social media education and strategy development, and he offers his thoughts on how to do that.