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Summary

In this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun and guest Ted Santos delve into the concept of disruptive leadership. They discuss how leaders can intentionally create problems for their teams to foster innovation and growth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of navigating uncertainty, empowering teams, and transforming mindsets to achieve breakthroughs. Santos shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies for leaders to develop their teams and themselves in a rapidly changing business environment. The episode concludes with a grant announcement for small businesses.

Grants & Resources:

Contact:
grants@nbafoundation.com
https://nbafoundation.nba.com
Maximum Grant: not specified
Deadline: November 14, 2025
Guidelines and Application: https://nbafoundation.nba.com/grants/

About the guest - Ted Santos:

Most people focus on solving problems—but what if the key to intentionally creating breakthrough success lies in purposely creating problems instead?

As a leadership coach and creator of the Disruptive Leadership Model, Ted helps business owners and executives intentionally create challenges that force innovation, drive growth, and disrupt stagnant thinking.

Instead of fixing what’s broken, Ted's approach reveals hidden opportunities and reshapes industries by training people to break through mental barriers and blind spots.

In this eye-opening episode, Ted shares:

• The science behind problem creation as a tool for innovation.
• How leaders can design challenges to drive strategic growth and resilience.
• Real-world examples of executives who achieved breakthroughs by rethinking traditional approaches.

Ted Santos is a leadership expert committed to transforming organizations by flipping conventional thinking on its head. His methodology blends strategic disruption with a Socratic questioning approach, helping leaders spark innovation and build a lasting competitive edge.

You can learn more about Ted here.

Support the show

Learn more at Resources | Small Biz Catalyst

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This episode of Small Biz Catalyst delves into the funding landscape for Texas entrepreneurs, highlighting the state's position in venture capital, showcasing success stories of local startups, and providing insights into what investors seek. The conversation also explores alternative funding avenues such as grants and crowdfunding, while offering practical tips for engaging with Texas investors. The episode concludes with key takeaways and resources for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the funding landscape effectively.

Resources - Grant:

Ferguson - Ferguson Cares
Contact: fergusoncares@ferguson.com
https://www.corporate.ferguson.com
Maximum Grant: not specified
Deadline: NONE
Guidelines and Application: https://www.corporate.ferguson.com/ferguson-cares/default.aspx

Learn more at Resources | Small Biz Catalyst

Send us a text

In this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun explores the concept of entrepreneurial ecosystems, emphasizing their importance for business growth and success. She discusses how these ecosystems provide essential support through networks of people, resources, and institutions. The episode also covers practical steps for entrepreneurs to engage with their local ecosystems and highlights a grant opportunity for youth development programs.

Resources:

Grants:

Contact:
grants@nbafoundation.com
https://nbafoundation.nba.com
Maximum Grant: not specified
Deadline: November 14, 2025
Guidelines and Application: https://nbafoundation.nba.com/grants/

Takeaways

• An entrepreneurial ecosystem is a network of support for startups.
• Successful founders leverage their community for growth.
• Ecosystems provide access to mentors, funding, and talent.
• Engagement in an ecosystem can lead to faster business success.
• Mapping your local ecosystem can help identify resources.
• Attending local events can enhance your network.
• Visibility and engagement with leaders are crucial.
• Giving value to others in the ecosystem fosters reciprocity.
• Your business thrives better within a supportive community.
• Grants are available for programs targeting youth development.

Learn more at Resources | Small Biz Catalyst