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.

Survival often requires doing something different than what you've been doing. Are you prepared to make those adjustments?Tony Paradiso and Jim Blasingame talk about some specific tips and ideas for how to make critical changes during challenging times.

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 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.

What's the best way to thrive during a recession? Joanne Black talks with Jim Blasingame about some of the key elements getting through to your prospects by employing an effective referral system.

What do you, or your sales staff do when a prospect says, "You're too high"? Rob Jolles joins Jim Blasingame to reveal several ways to overcome the "your too high" or "I can't afford this" objection.

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.

The most important thing you need to sell successfully is what's in the head of your prospects and customers. Sam Richter joins Jim Blasingame to talk about how to make sure your sales calls are oriented around what's important to them, rather than what's important to you.

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.