Operational excellence is the most overlooked driver of competitive advantage. This article explains why delivering your product or service right every time, not most of the time, is the key to stronger efficiency, repeat business, and sustainable profitability. Through examples from industry leaders like The Ritz-Carlton and Pal’s Sudden Service, it illustrates how mindset, clarity, and consistent systems enable organizations to achieve exceptional results.

Marketing in 2026 is changing rapidly, and small business owners are under increasing pressure to adapt. In a recent episode of Profitability Playbook: The Simple Numbers Podcast, hosts Mike Maxson and Brandon Gray interview Shawn Byrne of My Biz Niche to break down the biggest shifts in the marketing landscape. From the influence of artificial intelligence to the growing importance of platform‑specific messaging, Byrne emphasizes that what you say matters more than where you

The start of 2026 has already delivered an influx of news affecting entrepreneurs, from conversations about returning to the office to questions surrounding discounts, tariffs, and shifting market demand. In a recent episode of Profitability Playbook: The Simple Numbers Podcast, Brandon Gray and Mike Maxson break down these emerging headlines and share what they mean for business owners navigating an unpredictable landscape.

As another year wraps up, many business owners reflect on the same pressing questions: how to handle bonuses, whether to make year‑end purchases, and how to plan effectively for the year ahead. In a recent episode of Profitability Playbook: The Simple Numbers Podcast, Brandon Gray and Mike Maxson break down these decisions with practical guidance, from rethinking bonus strategies to avoiding unnecessary spending and building flexible financial plans.

Profitability today isn’t just about growth — it’s about precision. Learn how managing your business salary cap helps you control labor costs, protect margins, and make smarter financial decisions in tighter markets.

Scaling a Business: The Journey to Tripling Your Company Scaling a business is never a straight path. It’s a journey filled with bold decisions, unexpected challenges, and constant adaptation. In the latest episode of Profitability Playbook: The Simple Numbers Podcast , host Brandon Gray sits down with Stephanie Harris, CEO and owner of PartnerCentric, to unpack how she transformed her company and tripled its size since acquiring it in 2017. From Employee to Owner: A Bold Le