You can have the best product, the most dedicated team, and a track record that speaks for itself — and still lose clients to a competitor who is simply more visible. More talked about. More featured.

Business magazines are one of the most powerful visibility tools available to entrepreneurs today. A single feature in the right publication can do more for your credibility than a year of social media posts, paid ads, or cold outreach combined.

In my experience placing business owners in publications across the US, the entrepreneurs who get featured are not always the most successful ones in their industry. They are the ones who understand which publications matter, what those publications look for, and how to position their story to get noticed.

This guide covers the best business magazines for entrepreneurs in 2026 and gives you a practical roadmap for getting featured in them.

Why Getting Featured in a Business Magazine Still Matters

Before diving into the list, it is worth understanding what a magazine feature actually does for your business in 2026.

It builds credibility that money cannot buy. Anyone can run an ad. Not everyone gets featured in a publication with editorial standards. When a business magazine chooses to feature your story, it signals to your market that an independent third party found your work worthy of attention.

It ranks on Google. A well-written feature about your business published on a high-authority magazine website can rank on the first page of Google when someone searches your name or company. That is permanent, compounding visibility that works 24 hours a day.

It creates a credibility asset you can use everywhere. Once you are featured, that logo goes on your website, your email signature, your LinkedIn profile, and your pitch deck. “As featured in…” is one of the most powerful trust signals in business.

It attracts the right clients. The readers of business magazines are business owners, decision makers, and executives — exactly the people most entrepreneurs are trying to reach.

The Best Business Magazines for Entrepreneurs in 2026

1. Forbes

Forbes is the most recognized business publication in the world and being featured carries enormous credibility weight. Forbes covers entrepreneurship, leadership, technology, finance, and business strategy across every industry.

Best for: Established entrepreneurs with a strong track record, unique business insights, or a compelling personal story.

How to get featured: Forbes has a contributor network where approved writers pitch stories. The best path for most entrepreneurs is to be quoted as an expert source in an existing article rather than pitching a feature directly. Building a relationship with a Forbes contributor in your industry is the most reliable route.

Difficulty: High — Forbes receives thousands of pitches and the bar for coverage is significant.

2. Entrepreneur Magazine

Entrepreneur is one of the most widely read publications for small business owners and founders. It covers startups, growth strategies, franchise opportunities, leadership, and business culture.

Best for: Small business owners, franchise operators, startup founders, and entrepreneurs at any stage of growth.

How to get featured: Entrepreneur actively looks for real business stories with lessons other entrepreneurs can apply. Pitching a story about a challenge you overcame, an unconventional strategy that worked, or a milestone worth noting are all strong angles.

Difficulty: Medium — more accessible than Forbes but still competitive.

3. Inc. Magazine

Inc. focuses on fast-growing companies and the entrepreneurs building them. It is known for lists like the Inc. 5000 — the definitive ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America.

Best for: High-growth businesses, tech startups, and entrepreneurs with strong revenue growth stories.

How to get featured: The Inc. 5000 application is the most direct path to Inc. coverage. Beyond that, Inc. writers actively seek sources and experts through platforms like HARO. Being consistently helpful as a source builds relationships that lead to features.

Difficulty: Medium to high — growth metrics matter significantly to Inc. editors.

4. Fast Company

Fast Company covers innovation, business, and the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship. It has a strong focus on companies doing things differently — disrupting industries, building purpose-driven businesses, or solving problems in unconventional ways.

Best for: Tech entrepreneurs, innovators, purpose-driven businesses, and founders with a unique approach to their industry.

How to get featured: Fast Company responds well to pitches that connect your business to a broader trend or cultural moment. The angle needs to be forward-looking — what does your business say about where the industry is going?

Difficulty: High — Fast Company is selective and trend-focused.

5. Bloomberg Businessweek

Bloomberg Businessweek is one of the most respected business publications in the world, with deep coverage of finance, economics, technology, and global business strategy.

Best for: Businesses with financial or economic angles, companies operating at scale, and entrepreneurs with insights on market trends.

How to get featured: Bloomberg is primarily journalist-driven — they find their stories rather than accepting pitches from entrepreneurs directly. Being visible as an expert in your field through other publications, HARO, and LinkedIn increases the chances of a Bloomberg journalist finding you.

Difficulty: Very high — primarily for established businesses with significant scale.

6. CEO Medium

CEO Medium is a digital business magazine dedicated specifically to entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders across the US. Unlike traditional publications that rely on journalists to find your story, CEO Medium works directly with business owners to craft and publish dedicated feature stories.

Best for: Entrepreneurs, small business owners, realtors, consultants, and founders at any stage who want guaranteed media coverage with a permanent, SEO-indexed article about their business.

How to get featured: CEO Medium offers feature placement packages starting at $999. You get a dedicated article written and published about your business, permanent indexing on Google, and syndication to additional outlets depending on your package.

Difficulty: Accessible — designed specifically for entrepreneurs who want coverage without the uncertainty of traditional pitching.

How to Get Featured in a Business Magazine: A Step-by-Step Approach

Step 1: Choose the Right Publication for Your Stage

Not every magazine is right for every business. Match your pitch to where you are:

• Early stage or local business: Start with regional business journals, industry trade publications, and digital magazines like CEO Medium where the barrier to entry is lower and the audience is targeted.
• Growth stage: Target Entrepreneur and Inc. where mid-sized business stories get regular coverage.
• Established business with scale: Go after Forbes, Fast Company, and Bloomberg Businessweek where the bar is high but the credibility payoff is enormous.

Step 2: Craft a Story, Not a Profile

Magazines do not publish profiles of businesses. They publish stories about people building businesses. The difference is critical.

A profile says: “Here is what our company does and how successful we are.”

A story says: “Here is a challenge we faced, how we approached it differently, what we learned, and what that means for other entrepreneurs in our space.”

Before you pitch any publication, identify the story angle — the conflict, the turning point, the lesson, the unexpected result. That is what editors are looking for.

Step 3: Research the Right Contact

Every major publication has editors and writers who cover specific beats. Pitching the wrong person is as bad as not pitching at all.

Spend 20 minutes on LinkedIn and the publication’s website identifying:

• Who covers your industry or business type
• What stories they have published recently
• What angles they seem to favor

Then personalize your pitch to that specific person and reference their recent work.

Step 4: Write a One-Paragraph Pitch

Your initial pitch should be one paragraph maximum. Include:

• Who you are and what your business does in one sentence
• The story angle in one sentence
• Why their readers would care in one sentence
• A soft ask — “Would you be open to hearing more?”

Do not send a full press release as your first contact. Send a pitch. If they are interested, they will ask for more.

Step 5: Follow Up Once

If you do not hear back within 7 days, send one follow-up email. Keep it short — one sentence reminding them of your pitch and asking if they had a chance to consider it.

If you still do not hear back, move on to the next contact. Persistence is good. Repeated follow-ups to the same person are not.

The Fastest Path to Getting Featured in 2026

If you want guaranteed coverage without the uncertainty of pitching editors who may never respond, working directly with a business publication is the most efficient path.

CEO Medium works with entrepreneurs and small business owners to publish dedicated feature stories that are permanently indexed on Google, written to tell your story the way it deserves to be told, and syndicated to additional outlets to maximize reach.

Once your feature is live, combining it with a press release distribution service can extend your reach even further.

Rather than spending months pitching editors with no guarantee of coverage, you get a published feature that builds your credibility from day one.

Final Thoughts

Business magazines remain one of the most powerful visibility tools available to entrepreneurs in 2026. A single feature in the right publication builds credibility, drives compounding traffic, and positions you as a recognized voice in your industry.

Start with publications that match your current stage. Build your story before you pitch. Personalize every outreach. Follow up once and move on.

And if you want to shortcut the process entirely, CEO Medium is here to make sure your story gets told.

Ready to get your business featured? CEO Medium publishes dedicated feature stories for entrepreneurs and business owners across the US. Packages start at $999. Get Featured Today or email info@ceomedium.com.

The post The Best Business Magazines for Entrepreneurs in 2026 (And How to Get Featured in Them) appeared first on CEO Medium.

Getting your press release in front of the right journalists, editors, and media outlets is the part most business owners underestimate. You can write the most compelling press release in the world and still get zero coverage if it never reaches the right people.

That is where press release distribution services come in.

In my experience working with small business owners and entrepreneurs on media placements, the distribution method you choose makes as much difference as the press release itself. Send it the wrong way and it disappears into a void. Send it the right way and you wake up to coverage in publications you never even pitched.

I have seen businesses spend $1,500 on PR Newswire distribution and get zero pickup  and others get featured in 12 publications from a single well-placed direct pitch that cost nothing.

This guide breaks down the best press release distribution services available in 2026, what they cost, who they are best for, and what the alternatives are if you want better results for less money.

What Is a Press Release Distribution Service?

A press release distribution service takes your press release and sends it to a network of journalists, newsrooms, editors, and media databases on your behalf.

The basic promise is simple: instead of manually building a media list and pitching hundreds of journalists one by one, you pay a service to do the distribution for you at scale.

Some services distribute to thousands of outlets simultaneously. Others focus on specific industries or regions. Some offer SEO benefits by publishing your release on high-authority news sites. The quality, reach, and cost vary dramatically between providers.

The Best Press Release Distribution Services in 2026

1. PR Newswire – Best for Maximum Reach

PR Newswire is the largest and most established press release distribution service in the world. A single release distributed through PR Newswire can reach thousands of newsrooms, journalists, and media databases simultaneously.

Best for: Large announcements, funding rounds, public company news, product launches targeting national media.

Cost: Starts around $350 per release for regional distribution. National distribution runs $800 to $1,500+ depending on word count and add-ons.

Pros:

• Widest distribution network in the industry
• Strong SEO benefits from syndication on high-authority news sites
• Trusted by journalists as a credible source

Cons:

• Expensive for small business owners
• No guarantee of actual journalist pickup or coverage
• Releases often get lost in the volume of content distributed daily

2. Business Wire  – Best for Financial and Corporate News

Business Wire is owned by Berkshire Hathaway and is the preferred distribution service for corporate announcements, earnings releases, and financial news. It has deep relationships with financial media and wire services.

Best for: Financial announcements, investor relations, corporate news, regulated industries.

Cost: Similar to PR Newswire – starts around $400 for regional, $900+ for national.

Pros:

• Strong reach into financial and business media
• Trusted by Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and Reuters
• Good compliance tools for regulated industries

Cons:

• Overkill for most small businesses
• High cost with no guaranteed coverage
• Interface is dated and not beginner-friendly

3. EIN Presswire – Best Budget Option for Basic Distribution

EIN Presswire offers one of the most affordable entry points into press release distribution. For small businesses that want basic distribution without spending hundreds of dollars per release, it is a reasonable starting point.

Best for: Small businesses, startups, local businesses doing their first press releases.

Cost: Starts at $99 per release. Annual plans available for frequent users.

Pros:

• Affordable compared to PR Newswire and Business Wire
• Distributes to Google News and industry-specific outlets
• Simple to use

Cons:

• Smaller distribution network than premium services
• Less credibility with top-tier journalists
• Limited SEO impact compared to higher-tier services

4. Globe Newswire – Best for Mid-Market Businesses

Globe Newswire sits between EIN Presswire and PR Newswire in terms of reach and cost. It is a solid option for mid-sized businesses that need broader distribution than budget services offer but cannot justify the cost of PR Newswire.

Best for: Mid-market companies, technology businesses, businesses targeting trade media.

Cost: Starts around $200 per release for basic distribution.

Pros:

• Good balance of cost and reach
• Strong in technology and financial sectors
• Distributes to AP, Reuters, and major financial databases

Cons:

• Less name recognition than PR Newswire or Business Wire
• Pickup rates vary significantly by industry

5. Prowly – Best for Building Your Own Media List

Prowly takes a different approach from traditional distribution services. Rather than blasting your release to a generic network, Prowly gives you tools to build your own targeted media list, manage journalist relationships, and distribute directly to contacts who actually cover your industry.

Best for: Businesses doing ongoing PR who want to build real journalist relationships over time.

Cost: Starts at $258 per month — a subscription model rather than per-release pricing.

Pros:

• Targeted outreach rather than mass distribution
• Built-in media database with journalist contact info
• PR analytics and tracking

Cons:

• Monthly subscription is expensive for occasional use
• Requires more effort than set-and-forget distribution services
• Better suited for businesses with dedicated PR resources

The Hard Truth About Press Release Distribution Services

Here is what most distribution services will not tell you upfront:

Distribution does not equal coverage.

You can spend $1,500 sending a press release through PR Newswire and get zero journalists writing about your business. Distribution services guarantee that your release gets sent — they do not guarantee that anyone reads it, cares about it, or publishes a story about it.

The reality is that journalists receive hundreds of press releases every day through these services. Most get skimmed and deleted within seconds. Unless your story is genuinely newsworthy and perfectly timed, mass distribution alone is unlikely to generate meaningful coverage.

This does not mean distribution services are useless. They serve a real purpose — particularly for SEO, since your release gets published on hundreds of news sites and creates backlinks to your website. But if your goal is actual media coverage and real stories written about your business, distribution alone is rarely enough.

What Actually Gets Results: A Smarter Approach

The businesses that consistently earn media coverage in 2026 use a combination of approaches rather than relying on any single service:

Targeted direct outreach to journalists who specifically cover their industry, combined with a well-crafted pitch tailored to each contact.

HARO responses to get quoted in articles journalists are already writing, which requires no pitch and no distribution fee.

Direct publication partnerships with business media outlets that feature entrepreneurs and business owners as part of their editorial model.

That last option is worth understanding in more detail. Rather than paying $500 to $1,500 to distribute a press release that may never get picked up, some business owners choose to work directly with publications like CEO Medium to get a dedicated feature story written and published about their business.

The difference is significant. A press release distributed through a wire service is one of thousands sent that day. A dedicated feature story published on CEO Medium is a permanent, SEO-indexed article specifically about your business – written to rank on Google and reach your target audience directly.

Press Release Distribution vs. Direct Feature Placement: A Comparison

Which Press Release Distribution Service Should You Choose?

Here is a simple decision framework based on your situation:

If you are a small business doing your first press release and want basic distribution without spending a lot: Start with EIN Presswire at $99. It gives you Google News distribution and a reasonable starting point without a major financial commitment.

If you are announcing something significant, a funding round, major partnership, or product launch targeting national media: PR Newswire or Business Wire give you the widest reach and the most credibility with top-tier journalists.

If you want ongoing PR capability and are committed to building real journalist relationships over time: Prowly gives you the tools to do that properly.

If you want guaranteed coverage with a permanent article indexed on Google that specifically tells your business story: Working directly with a business publication like CEO Medium is the most efficient path.

Final Thoughts

Press release distribution services are a legitimate tool in your media strategy but they work best as part of a broader approach rather than a standalone solution.

Use distribution to get your news out broadly and build SEO backlinks. Use targeted outreach and HARO to build real journalist relationships. And use direct publication partnerships to guarantee that your story gets told the way it deserves to be told.

The goal is not just to send a press release. The goal is to get your business in front of the right people, build credibility that compounds over time, and make it impossible for your target customers to miss you.

If you are ready to go beyond distribution and get a dedicated feature story published about your business, CEO Medium works with entrepreneurs and small business owners across the US to make that happen.

Want guaranteed coverage instead of hoping your press release gets picked up? CEO Medium publishes dedicated feature stories for business owners starting at $999. Get Featured Today or email info@ceomedium.com.

The post Press Release Distribution Services: The Best Options Compared in 2026 appeared first on CEO Medium.

They picture a Fortune 500 brand hiring a $10,000-a-month agency, sending press releases to hundreds of journalists, and landing features in major publications through sheer spending power.

That picture is outdated.

In my experience working with entrepreneurs and business owners on media placements, the ones who get covered consistently are not always the biggest or best-funded. They are the ones who understand how media works and position themselves accordingly.

This guide breaks down exactly how to get media coverage for your small business in 2026 – without an agency, without a massive budget, and without wasting months chasing journalists who will never respond.

Why Media Coverage Still Matters in 2026

Before diving into strategy, it is worth understanding why media coverage is worth pursuing in the first place.

A single feature in the right publication can do more for your business than months of paid advertising. Here is why:

It builds permanent credibility. A published article about your business lives on Google indefinitely. When a potential client searches your name, they find proof that a real publication thought your story was worth telling.

It drives compounding traffic. Unlike an ad that disappears the moment you stop paying, an article keeps sending readers to your website for years.

It creates a trust shortcut. Customers trust businesses that have been featured in media more than businesses that have not. Being featured in even one credible publication changes how people perceive you.

It opens doors. Media coverage leads to speaking invitations, partnership opportunities, podcast appearances, and more coverage. One feature often leads to five more.

The 5 Most Effective Ways to Get Media Coverage in 2026

1. Build a Targeted Media List

The biggest mistake small business owners make with PR is sending the same pitch to every journalist they can find. This approach wastes time and burns bridges.

Instead, build a targeted list of 20 to 30 journalists and editors who specifically cover your industry, your region, or your type of business story.

To find the right contacts:

• Search Google for recent articles about businesses like yours and note the journalist’s name
• Follow industry publications and identify their regular contributors
• Use LinkedIn to find editors at local business journals and trade publications
• Check the masthead of publications you want to be featured in

A targeted list of 25 journalists who actually cover your space will outperform a blasted list of 500 every single time.

2. Write a Newsworthy Pitch

Journalists do not cover businesses. They cover stories. Your pitch needs to answer one question immediately: why should their readers care about this right now?

A strong pitch has three elements:

A clear news hook. What is happening that makes this timely? A product launch, a milestone, a trend you are responding to, a problem you are solving.

A specific angle. Not “my business is growing” but “my business grew 300% by doing the opposite of what every expert recommended.”

A short ask. One paragraph. Tell them who you are, what the story is, and why their audience would care. Do not attach a press release to the first email. Just pitch the idea.

3. Use HARO and Similar Platforms

Help a Reporter Out (HARO) is a free service where journalists post requests for sources and experts to quote in their articles. You sign up, receive daily emails with journalist requests, and respond to the ones relevant to your business.

This is one of the fastest ways to get quoted in major publications as a small business owner. A single good HARO response can land you a mention in Forbes, Entrepreneur, or Inc. without ever sending a cold pitch.

Other platforms that work similarly:

• Qwoted — newer alternative to HARO with higher quality requests
• SourceBottle — good for lifestyle and consumer brands
• ProfNet — more suited to established experts and academics

Check HARO requests every morning and respond within the first two hours. Journalists work on tight deadlines and the first good response usually wins.

4. Leverage Local Media First

National coverage is the goal for many business owners but local media is often the fastest and most impactful starting point.

Local newspapers, regional business journals, local TV news, and community blogs are all actively looking for stories about businesses in their area. The competition for coverage is far lower and the relationships you build with local journalists often lead to national introductions over time.

Start by pitching your local business journal or newspaper. Frame your story around a local angle — job creation, community impact, a local problem you are solving. Once you have local coverage, use that as proof of credibility when pitching national outlets.

5. Get Featured in a Business Publication Directly

Rather than chasing journalists and hoping they pick up your story, you can work directly with business publications that feature entrepreneurs and business owners as part of their editorial model.

This approach gives you:

• Control over how your story is told
• A guaranteed published feature rather than a maybe
• A permanent, SEO-indexed article that ranks on Google
• Syndication to additional outlets depending on the publication

At CEO Medium, we work with entrepreneurs and small business owners to craft and publish dedicated feature stories that reach thousands of readers in their target market. Rather than spending months pitching journalists with no guarantee of coverage, you get a published feature that works for your business 24 hours a day.

What Makes a Business Story Worth Covering

Whether you are pitching a journalist or working with a publication directly, your story needs one of these elements to be worth covering:

Conflict or challenge. You faced a serious obstacle and overcame it. Readers connect with struggle and resilience more than smooth success stories.

Surprising data or results. You achieved something unusual — grew faster than expected, found a counterintuitive solution, reached a milestone that defies the norm.

A clear human angle. There is a real person behind the business with a real reason for building it. Personal motivation is one of the most compelling story elements in business journalism.

Timely relevance. Your story connects to something happening in the world right now — a trend, a shift in consumer behavior, a market change.

A local or community angle. You are creating jobs, solving a local problem, or building something that your community can be proud of.

If your story has at least one of these elements, it is worth pitching.

Common Mistakes That Kill Your Chances of Getting Covered

Pitching too broadly. Sending the same generic pitch to 500 journalists signals that you have not done your homework. Personalize every pitch to the specific journalist and publication.

Making it about you, not the reader. Journalists write for their audience, not for your business. Every pitch needs to lead with why their readers will care, not why the story matters to you.

Following up too aggressively. One follow-up email after 5 to 7 days is acceptable. Multiple follow-ups within a week will get you blacklisted.

No visuals or assets. Make it easy for journalists to say yes. Have a high-quality headshot, company photos, and a one-page media kit ready to send the moment someone shows interest.

Giving up too soon. Most business owners pitch once or twice and quit when they do not hear back. Consistent, strategic outreach over months is how small businesses build real media presence.

Building a Long-Term Media Presence

Getting one feature is good. Building a media presence that consistently generates coverage is what actually moves the needle for your business.

To do that, think of PR as a habit rather than a one-time effort:

• Pitch at least 5 journalists or publications every month
• Respond to HARO requests every morning
• Publish content on your own platform that journalists can reference
• Build genuine relationships with 3 to 5 journalists in your space over time
• Document your business milestones so you always have something newsworthy to pitch

Over 12 months of consistent effort, a small business can build the kind of media presence that most people assume only large companies can achieve.

Final Thoughts

Media coverage is not reserved for big companies with big budgets. It is available to any business owner who understands how to tell a compelling story and gets it in front of the right people.

Start with a targeted media list. Write pitches that lead with the story, not the product. Use free tools like HARO to get quoted in major publications. Build local coverage first and use it as a springboard to national outlets.

And if you want to shortcut the process and get a guaranteed feature story published and indexed on Google, CEO Medium works directly with business owners to make that happen.

Your story is worth telling. The question is whether you are going to tell it or keep waiting for someone else to notice.

Ready to get your business featured? CEO Medium publishes dedicated feature stories for entrepreneurs and small business owners across the US. Get Featured Today or email info@ceomedium.com

The post How to Get Media Coverage for Your Small Business in 2026 appeared first on CEO Medium.

Beyond business, Brent Polischuk has also spent many years involved in competitive hockey as a player, coach, and operations volunteer. Those experiences, along with his community work, have helped shape a leadership style that values preparation, accountability, and steady performance over time. In this interview, he discusses the concepts of responsibility, the art of decision-making, and explores what it takes to run reliable systems behind the scenes.

Q: You manage a delivery business that requires attention to logistics, people, and finances. What does responsibility mean to you in that kind of role?

BRENT POLISCHUK: Responsibility starts with recognizing that other people rely on the work you do, even if they never see it directly. In a delivery operation, customers expect their shipments to arrive safely and on schedule. Drivers need clear routes and reliable vehicles. Vendors expect communication to be straightforward. All of that creates a chain of expectations.

My job is to make sure those pieces work together smoothly. That means planning routes carefully, maintaining the vehicles, and staying organized with scheduling and finances. A lot of the work happens before the day even begins. When preparation is done properly, most problems never reach the customer. That’s really the goal: to handle issues early so the service itself feels simple and reliable.

Q: Running a fleet of vehicles can involve many moving parts. How do you keep operations running efficiently day after day?

BRENT POLISCHUK: Consistency and attention to detail make the biggest difference. Every vehicle in the fleet has to be maintained, because small mechanical issues can turn into major delays if they’re ignored. I try to stay very hands-on with maintenance schedules so that downtime is minimized.

Route planning is another key piece. If drivers know where they’re going and the schedule is realistic, the day runs more smoothly. That also means listening to feedback from the people on the road. They often see things that can improve efficiency.

At the same time, I monitor costs closely. Fuel, maintenance, insurance, and equipment all affect the financial health of the business. When you track those numbers consistently, it becomes easier to make practical decisions that keep the operation sustainable.

Q: Your background includes many years in competitive hockey. How has that experience influenced the way you run a business?

BRENT POLISCHUK: Sports teach you discipline and structure. When you’re involved in competitive hockey, preparation becomes part of everyday life. Practices, game planning, and team roles all require organization. Those same habits carry over into business.

In both settings, teamwork is essential. When people understand their responsibilities and trust each other to do their part, performance improves. Communication is also very important. Whether it’s on a team or in a business operation, clear expectations help everyone stay focused.

Another lesson from sports is learning to stay calm under pressure. Games can change quickly, and reacting emotionally usually doesn’t help. The same thing applies in business. Unexpected situations come up, but if you stay composed and focus on solutions, you can usually work through them.

Q: Financial management is a large part of your work as an owner-operator. How do you approach that responsibility?

BRENT POLISCHUK: Financial oversight is something that needs regular attention. You can’t just review numbers once in a while and hope everything works out. I track expenses closely and try to understand where money is being spent and how those costs affect long-term planning.

For example, maintaining vehicles properly may seem expensive in the short term, but it usually prevents larger repairs later. The same idea applies to budgeting and cost control. If you stay disciplined and plan ahead, the business becomes more stable.

Financial awareness also helps with decision-making. When you know your numbers, you can evaluate opportunities more carefully and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Over time, that kind of steady financial management builds resilience.

Q: You’ve also taken on roles supporting hockey programs and events. What did those experiences teach you about leadership?

BRENT POLISCHUK: Leadership often involves supporting others rather than seeking attention. In sports environments, there are many people working behind the scenes to make things run smoothly. Everyone from coaches and evaluators to volunteers and coordinators. Their work allows athletes to focus on performing.

I’ve learned that leadership sometimes means noticing small problems early and solving them quietly. When systems work properly, people may not even realize the effort that went into organizing them. But that preparation makes a real difference.

I think respect is also important. Everyone involved in a project or team contributes something valuable. When people feel respected and supported, they usually perform better and take pride in their work.

Q: What advice would you give to people who want to build dependable operations in their own work or businesses?

BRENT POLISCHUK: Focus on preparation and consistency. It’s easy to get caught up in trying to move quickly, but strong systems are built step by step. Take the time to organize your processes, maintain your equipment, and understand your finances.

Also remember that trust is earned over time. When people see that you follow through on your commitments, they become more confident working with you. Reliability may not always attract attention, but it creates lasting relationships.

Finally, stay open to learning. Every challenge teaches you something about how to improve your systems. If you approach your work with patience and accountability, progress usually follows.

The post Victoria’s Brent Polischuk on Leadership, Logistics, and Financial Discipline appeared first on CEO Medium.

That means a commitment not just to your business idea, which obviously matters, but to the process of building a business from the ground up. It means committing to being held accountable when things don’t go as planned. Without a deep-rooted commitment, even the smartest business plan can collapse under pressure.

For many entrepreneurs, maintaining this commitment is the biggest challenge they face. Among those who have had success, many point to the importance of a strong support system as a crucial factor in keeping their commitment strong. 

Entrepreneur and educator Reza Satchu knows this firsthand. He and his brother Asif have co-founded and built six businesses between them, with exits ranging from $100 million to $2 billion. But when Reza brought his brother and sister-in-law into his Harvard Business School classroom recently, it wasn’t the billion-dollar wins that grabbed students’ attention—it was the strength of their relationship.

“The answer always came back to one word: commitment,” Reza wrote on social media after the class. “We weren’t just committed to our ventures but to each other.” That bond, forged through shared struggle and honest dissent, gave them an edge. As Asif put it, “Find someone that cares enough about you to dissent with you.”

Founders live in a world of uncertainty, where blind spots and ego can kill a business before it even gets off the ground. A co-founder, advisor, or even a sibling who’s willing to call you out can be a lifeline.

But commitment goes beyond personal relationships. It shows up in how entrepreneurs handle adversity. Do you pivot the moment something gets hard? Or do you stay grounded in your mission long enough to learn from the challenge and adapt? As Reza explained in an interview with Exeleon Magazine, “Committing with uncertainty is not easy. But you must commit, and that takes belief in both yourself and the idea. You simply can’t compete with someone who is committed. Because that’s where the magic happens.” 

Commitment means sacrificing comfort, absorbing failure, and staying the course even when the outcome is unclear. It means sticking with a product during its awkward adolescent phase and showing up when motivation starts to fizzle. And it often means doing the boring, unsexy work—again and again.

Too many founders chase external validation like investors, press, and user numbers, without first building internal clarity and long-haul resilience. But business isn’t just about being first to market; it’s about lasting long enough to matter.

So here’s the real advice: Before you pitch anyone else, commit to yourself. Commit to the uncomfortable truths, the slow growth, the tension of receiving feedback. Surround yourself with people who believe in your potential enough to challenge you. Not cheerleaders, but the kind of allies who, like the Satchu brothers, can stand beside you and say, “You’re wrong—and I’m still here.”

In the end, great companies aren’t just built on ideas. They’re built on people willing to stay in the fight. Commitment is what keeps them there.

The post What Reza Satchu Teaches Us About Commitment in Entrepreneurship  appeared first on CEO Medium.

Q: Can you share about your journey in the capital markets and how it shaped your career? 

DAVID BIRKENSHAW: Over 35 years ago, my journey started in the financial services sector with a focus on portfolio management and planning strategies. I quickly saw the need to understand market changes and find chances in undervalued areas. This view led me to the mining industry, where I noticed great potential for growth. I have led organizations like Meryllion Resources Corporation, focusing on exploration in South America and Oceania. Experience taught me that success in capital markets relies on flexibility and foresight. These qualities still drive my work at Birkenshaw & Company.

Q: What inspired you to create Bluesky Digital Assets and how does it fit with your expertise in mining and capital markets? 

DAVID BIRKENSHAW: My curiosity about disruptive technologies like AI and blockchain stirred the creation of Bluesky Digital Assets. These technologies could change traditional industries. Mining and technology feel distinct, yet both require innovation and efficiency. For example, AI improves resource exploration and operations in mining. There is a need  to connect these sectors, fostering investments that provide returns and expand boundaries in both industries. AI and innovation are vital.

Q: What trends do you see shaping the mining industry’s future and how should companies prepare? 

DAVID BIRKENSHAW: The mining industry now sees a major shift due to sustainability and technology. Investors and stakeholders prioritize ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles. Thus, mining companies need cleaner, more efficient practices. Technological advancements are becoming crucial. AI-driven exploration and automation help stay competitive. Companies should accept these changes by funding research, forming strategic partnerships and focusing on long-term sustainability. Preparation involves research and partnerships.

Q: How do you lead in a complex, changing industry? 

DAVID BIRKENSHAW: Leadership means fostering teamwork and empowering innovation. Challenges arise in mining and capital markets. Solutions-oriented thinking is key. Encourage a culture of constant learning. Transparency and integrity matter; they build trust with stakeholders and allow bold ideas. A leader inspires confidence and guides an organization toward sustainable success. Confidence and guidance lead to success.

Q: What advice would you give to new entrepreneurs and investors?

DAVID BIRKENSHAW: Remain curious and adaptable. The business world changes constantly. Success depends on anticipating and responding to these changes. Entrepreneurs should solve real-world problems and develop sturdy, scalable business models. Investors need diversification and thorough research. Also, never overlook strong networking and mentorship; supportive, knowledgeable people can truly make a difference. Adaptability and curiosity are crucial.

The post An Interview with David Birkenshaw, Managing Director of Birkenshaw & Company Ltd. appeared first on CEO Medium.

What motivated you to pursue a career in consulting, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

Shoaib Khan: I founded Clearoute Inc. in 1999 as a means to share my expertise—specifically in the field of technological innovation—with companies and organizations that I could see needed help adapting to the changing times. So, I suppose you could say my inspiration for entering consulting was that I saw a need in the market and I endeavoured to fill it. I always thought that I could excel in the profession, and luckily, I did.

When did you decide to seriously turn your attention toward humanitarian projects, and what inspired you to do that?

Shoaib Khan: As time went by and Clearoute Inc. became more successful, it became easier for me to delegate responsibility to a few select members of my team. I still oversaw general operations and weighed on big decisions pertaining to important clients, but the consulting firm was humming along like a well-oiled machine. That’s when I found my thoughts turning toward humanitarian matters. Once I knew for certain that my company was healthy and thriving, I said to myself, “Shoaib, it’s now time to apply your talents and efforts to easing human suffering and making the world a better place to live.” In a nutshell, that’s when–and why–I founded Humaniti.

Are you working on any initiatives that you’re particularly proud of right now?

Shoaib Khan: Yes. Humaniti is currently in the midst of a campaign called Heal, which is a program that I am personally very excited of. 

Is there any overlap between how you approach your consulting work and how you approach your nonprofit work?

Shoaib Khan: Sure, there are many similarities between the two, especially in the realm of process. Much as with my businesses, my charitable organization tries to extract the most value out of its finite resources. So, we keep track of everything in great detail—be it monetary donations, physical supplies, or human resources. We then conduct detailed analyses on how best to use these resources before undertaking any given project in order to maximize its effect and help the most people we possibly can. I found these processes to be highly effective in running my businesses, and so I applied them to Humaniti as well, and the results have been tremendous.

Are there any words of advice you wish to impart to novice or would-be entrepreneurs and humanitarians?

Shoaib Khan: To any budding entrepreneurs out there, don’t give up. You’ve embarked on a long and difficult journey filled with many seemingly insurmountable obstacles, but once you’ve overcome them and found success, the rewards are incredible. Just keep it up. To any budding humanitarians out there, never forget that your job is to add love and hope to our world. Work to help desperate people have faith in themselves, and work to give them the support they need to reach their dreams.

The post Serial Entrepreneur and Humanitarian Shoaib Khan Discusses His Business Ventures and Charitable Projects appeared first on CEO Medium.

Can you share more about your educational and professional background, and how have these experiences contributed to your success in the real estate development sector?

I grew up in an architectural and design-oriented family in Stuttgart, Germany. I began working at the age of 13 in a German architecture office for residential housing and new developments. In 2011, I was recruited as a 400m and 400m Hurdle Track athlete to a D1 school in the Nashville area. I studied finance and international management in college and have won financial awards. I quickly began to focus on real estate investments upon graduation. I have prior work experience in the European M&A group at Deloitte and in Equity Research of a $1.3bn fund at an Asset Management firm in Franklin, TN. Coming out of college and taking a real estate development and investment firm from essentially scratch to multi-millions has been a big personal accomplishment. I live for improving the lives of others and increasing safety in our neighborhoods.

How does Sapphire Development Group’s vertically integrated business model operate, and what strategies have propelled your rapid growth within the real estate industry?

I built Sapphire Development Group to be a vertically integrated real estate development and investment firm because I believe that the investor and client experience is much better when the same trusted team can assist all around with their real estate investment needs. My team delivers a one-stop-shop experience, from offering off-market deals and developing ground-up residential to helping others build and sell real estate portfolios. This means we provide our investors with a hands-on deal experience that includes access to off-market deals that can yield better returns, and also protect development investments as our Realtor Team, Your Sapphire Team, handles the sales aspect. Sapphire & Co. handles much of the real estate cycle in-house, which has helped the company grow quickly.

Based on your experiences, what key lessons would you share with aspiring entrepreneurs, especially in navigating challenges and building character?

Don’t ever quit. No matter how difficult something may seem, it’s worth the undertaking. Character is built during persevering tough times, and character is what will make all the difference in the world. I believe the saying, “When the going gets tough, the tough get going,” is what makes for successful entrepreneurship.

In what ways do you believe your vision for architecture and design, combined with an understanding of urban planning and human trends, has made Sapphire Development Group successful?

I believe it’s my vision for architecture and design that meets a deep understanding of urban planning and understanding human trends that have been inspired by having lived abroad in various cultures from Germany to China, as well as in metropolitan areas such as NYC.

What have you learned about the importance of communication and authenticity in business, and how has this understanding shaped your entrepreneurial journey?

I’ve learned that communication in business is everything. It’s vital as an entrepreneur to be able to communicate during great as well as during difficult times, whether that’s with investors, clients, or employees. I also have come to the realization that most people don’t know what they’re doing and that we all are just trying to figure things out as we go. We’re all in this human experience together looking for opportunities to grow, unfold, and be. The more authentic we are, and the more we feel connected within our community, the more successful our journey will feel as an entrepreneur.

What personal skills and attributes do you consider critical for your success, and how have they helped you adapt and thrive in various circumstances?

As a person, I’m very adaptable, open-minded, and durable. I’ve had to pivot and restart several times which has built character and perseverance. I love learning and get bored easily so I try to stay super active in whatever I do. I’m just a generally curious person; curious to learn about others and curious to figure out how to unfold my full potential in building businesses.

Why do you believe mastering online marketing and diversifying business models is crucial for entrepreneurs today and in the future?

I believe that attention is the new currency and that we, as entrepreneurs whether digital or more traditional entrepreneurs, need to learn how to market online well in order to stay relevant over the next 10+ years. I also love the diversification of business models within a business umbrella.

Can you tell us more about the Sapphire Developer Academy and how it aims to empower real estate professionals with the knowledge to succeed in development?

I recently launched “Sapphire Developer Academy” in which I coach Realtors, Wholesalers, and Investors on how to break into real estate development. In this program, I share the exact strategies that I’ve used to build a multi-million dollar company and how they can too.

To discover more about Joséphine Saffert’s journey and Sapphire Development Group’s projects, explore these links:

Company Website: https://sapphiredevelop.com

LinkedIn & Instagram Handles:

– LinkedIn: @josephinesaffert https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephinesaffert

– Instagram: @josephinesaffert https://www.instagram.com/josephinesaffert/

 & @sapphirdevelop https://www.instagram.com/sapphirdevelop/

More on Sapphire Developer Academy: 

Sapphire Developer Academy

https://academy.sapphiredevelop.com/developer-academy

Podcasts Joséphine has been featured on:

-Spotify Episode

https://open.spotify.com/episode/5vU2QrsBYqVsTlXmo0nhGW?si=BDwXOiSbQMSh6GE0YduZTA

– Spotify Show

https://open.spotify.com/show/3p1JTW0mx9auFQxns4vL7Z?si=lKEeBfBqQO6BbqPkvn1jew

The post Sapphire Development Group: Joséphine Saffert’s Blueprint for Success appeared first on CEO Medium.

The British economy is still struggling to recover from the pandemic, according to the latest data. The economy is 0.5% smaller than it was before the pandemic, and experts say that the main reasons for this are the lingering effects of the pandemic and the tighter post-Brexit immigration rules.

The ongoing skills shortage is a major challenge for businesses, but it is also an opportunity for those who are proactive. Here are our top tips for businesses facing labor challenges in 2023.

UK industries with skills shortages

To begin, it is important to identify the industries in the UK that are most affected by the skills shortage. A recent study found that the country’s biggest shortfalls are in a variety of sectors, including:

• Transport and logistics: This sector is facing a shortage of skilled drivers, warehouse workers, and customs agents.
• Hospitality: This sector is facing a shortage of skilled chefs, waiters, and hotel staff.
• Manufacturing and construction: These sectors are facing a shortage of skilled engineers, carpenters, and electricians.

Invest in your workforce for long-term success

Recruiting top talent is a time-sensitive process, as there is only a limited pool of qualified candidates available. A recruitment agency can help you find the right people quickly and efficiently.

Recruitment agencies have wider referral networks as a third party, allowing them to identify candidates with the necessary work experience. They also focus on different industries, so you can locate an agency that meets your specific requirements.

Recruitment agencies can help you find new talent with the core skills to help your company reach its goals.

Invest in your workforce to boost your business
Often, the skills you need are already present in your workforce, but they may not be fully utilized. By upskilling your employees, you can give them the skills they need to take on new challenges and responsibilities.

Upskilling your workforce can be a great way to improve your business and the skills of your employees. By following these tips, you can make the upskilling process a success.

Organizations with more resources may even pay for their employees to enroll in external training programs offered by universities or colleges. This personalized investment in your workforce can build loyalty and even provide a valuable public relations opportunity.

Utilise Apprenticeship to train and upskill your workforce
Apprenticeships can be a long-term solution to skills shortages. They can help employers reach a wider talent pool and offer prospective employees a strong, high-quality alternative to the traditional university degree.

A multi-pronged approach to recruitment that includes building relationships with educational institutions can help businesses find top talent at the source.

Boost your marketing reach and visibility
A strong marketing strategy can make your company more attractive to prospective employees. This is because it can help to increase brand awareness and generate interest in your company. You can partner with local educational institutions, promote your job openings on social media and in the local press, and track your results to improve your marketing strategy and attract future employees.

Sources 

GDP – data tables – Office for National Statistics (ons.gov.uk)  

Immigration – Winckworth Sherwood LLP (wslaw.co.uk) 

UK employers struggle with worst labour shortage since 1997 | Business | The Guardian 

The post Overcoming Skills Gaps: A Guide for Businesses appeared first on CEO Medium.

Fauteux firmly believes in the responsibility of leaders to contribute to the preservation of our world. In his words, “I believe that everyone in a leadership position has the responsibility to ensure we are protecting nature and acting sustainably. Without it, little of what we do or achieve holds significance or meaning. After all, we have to ensure that we have a place where others following in our footsteps have the opportunity to achieve their own goals.”

Fauteux’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree earned in 1995 from Wilfrid Laurier University in Ontario, Canada. He also pursued further education, completing a Management Certificate from the American Management Association of International in 1999 as well as an Indigenous Studies Certificate from the University of Alberta in 2017. 

In this capacity as Senior Director of P3 at EQUANS Services, he’s responsible for managing the strategic delivery operations of multiple P3 contracts in both Canada and the United States. His areas of oversight encompass transit, healthcare, transportation, and cultural infrastructure. 

What does your day-to-day generally look like given your position?

Contract, Vendor, and Client Management are the activities that take up most of my day.  Making sure we are delivering on our commitments and serving our clients in the best, most sustainable way we can.

What initially inspired you to get into the field you’re in?

Leadership has always been the thing that I’ve gravitated to normally and environmentalism and sustainability are things that mean a lot to me personally. So being able to lead and contribute in those important areas has been great.

What do you think makes a great leader?

I generally subscribe to servant leadership so listening is where everything starts.  As a generalist, I believe strongly in putting the right people in the right places and then making sure you can support success, help them grow, and clear barriers for them. I also believe strongly that what gets measured, gets done so I am a big proponent of having accountability systems in place to track success.

What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

The biggest misconception is that environmentalism and sustainability are only for environmentalists and that simply is not true. Everything we build, operate, occupy, use, etc. can be better more sustainable, and less harmful to the environment around us.  Keeping this in mind, ALL of us are responsible for this, not just the environmentalists.

What do you believe your future career is going to look like five years from now?

I imagine that I will be leading sustainably in whatever industry needs me. 

The post Our Interview With Brad Fauteux, senior director of P3 Management at EQUANS appeared first on CEO Medium.