In Good Companies

Starting a new business is one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking moments in a person’s life. The stakes are high: depending on your situation, your whole net worth could be on the line. So how can you make sure that you’re in a position to succeed?

On this episode of In Good Companies, we’re talking business beginnings—the things you can do to prepare for what’s ahead. Guests Alan Thomes (Managing Director of SBA Banking, Cadence Bank) and Allan Adams (State Director, University of Georgia SBDC) join us to discuss bulletproof business plans, funding options, and developing relationships with key stakeholders. Together, we’ll uncover key resources, like expert consultation (for free!) from the Small Business Development Center and low-risk loans through the Small Business Administration. You’ll learn who you need to talk to and how to avoid the pitfalls of overexcited entrepreneurship.

Show Notes

Starting a new business is one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking moments in a person’s life. The stakes are high: depending on your situation, your whole net worth could be on the line. So how can you make sure that you’re in a position to succeed? 

On this episode of In Good Companies, we’re talking business beginnings—the things you can do to prepare for what’s ahead. Guests Alan Thomes (Managing Director of SBA Banking, Cadence Bank) and Allan Adams (State Director, University of Georgia SBDC) join us to discuss bulletproof business plans, funding options, and developing relationships with key stakeholders. Together, we’ll uncover key resources, like expert consultation (for free!) from the Small Business Development Center and low-risk loans through the Small Business Administration. You’ll learn who you need to talk to and how to avoid the pitfalls of overexcited entrepreneurship. 

Business isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon—and nobody rolls out of bed and runs a marathon without training. Preparation is essential and the more prepared you are, the more confidence you’ll have as issues arise. So let us guide you to the starting line, and when the bell rings and you open your doors, you’ll be ready.       

Highlights:
  • The dangers of overexcited entrepreneurship (2:07)
  • Doing your homework (5:41)
  • How the SBDC helps entrepreneurs (7:10)
  • Crafting a business plan (11:09)
  • The 5 C’s of Credit (12:11)
  • How a solid business plan can open doors (14:19)
  • Funding options (15:22)
  • Introduction to the SBA and 7a Loans (18:24)
  • Why you need to create a relationship with your lender (22:51)
  • Think of your bank as a partner (24:43)
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Feedback:
If you have questions about the show or topics you'd like discussed in future episodes, email our producer, sheena.cochran@cadencebank.com

What is In Good Companies?

Starting and running a business or managing one isn’t for the faint of heart. You’re balancing internal and external forces in a continually changing landscape. This is where Cadence Bank’s In Good Companies comes in. We share our wealth of knowledge–and insights from noted industry experts–to guide you through the forces shaping business today.

It’s hosted by Patrick Pacheco, an EVP and President of Cadence Asset Management and Trust, who has more than 25 years’ experience and is a self-proclaimed lifelong learner. He leads discussions with business owners and subject matter experts about how they’re tackling business challenges like:

● What are ways to grow my business without growing my debt?
● How can I turn my data into meaningful information?
● Why is company culture more important than ever?

It’s information you need, in one place, in under 30 minutes. More than 250,000 listeners tune in each week. Shouldn’t you?

ABOUT OUR HOST
With more than 25 years’ experience in wealth management for business clients and a penchant for hosting, Patrick Pacheco is an EVP and president of Cadence Asset Management and Trust, and presenter of the bank’s In Good Companies podcast, now in its fourth season.
His background features years of legal practice and multiple degrees, including a Master of Taxation from University of Houston, a law degree from Southern Methodist University, and both a Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Economics from University of Texas at Arlington.
Pacheco describes himself as a lifelong learner and someone who loves asking questions–probably the ones you’re thinking about too. He’s especially excited about season four because of the diversity of topics and guests who will not only share their wealth of knowledge, but listeners will also get tips and tricks they can use in their own businesses, careers and professional lives.