THE BODEGA · RESOURCES
Guides, strategies, and real talk for small business owners who want to make better financial decisions.
the tools you need
to secure your bag
Welcome to the Bodega, your resource hub for mastering the tools to secure your bag. Whether you’re scaling your business, tired of the VC chase, or trying to leverage smart loans for growth, this is the place to be.
How to build a really good product
So, what does it actually take to build a great product? In this episode of The CashPod, we get into the elements behind a strong product—knowing when to add more, when to cut back, how to find your users, and build for them. We talk about creating small moments that make a big impact, navigating product tradeoffs, and what “good” really means in practice.
How I sold my business (and what I’d do differently)
Thinking of selling your business? It’s one of the most significant decisions you'll ever make—and it starts with getting your financials in order. In this episode, we dive deep into the practical, financial, and strategic sides of preparing for a successful exit.
Is your business ready for new policy changes?
What happens to your business when the rules change? In this episode of The CashPod, we break down policy shifts, economic risks, and how to stay ahead. Learn best practices and why solid financial management is your best defense.
Which comes first: brand or product?
What comes first—building the brand or perfecting the product? In this episode of The CashPod, DT and marketing expert Justin Bridges dive into this question and more, unpacking the real-world challenges of growing a business. Tune in for insights on effective marketing, product strategy, and what it takes to make your business truly undeniable. Meet Justin at justin@justinbridges.com Instagram @freelancekills
A deep dive on AI
AI is reshaping every industry, role, and workflow. And if used in the right way, it can make your life a lot easier. • But how do we actually use it at Bags? • How is it integrated into our product to make your life easier? • How does it fit into our personal workflows? • How do you get AI to work for you, not the other way around? We cover it all in this episode of The CashPod.
5 things to do in this market to get noticed
Looking for practical tips to navigate today’s market and get funding? You’ve come to the right place. In this episode, we’re covering all things funding: shifts in the venture market, our top strategies to stand out to lenders, and our top do’s and don’ts when it comes to asking for funding.
Why Black-owned businesses are more profitable by necesity
Did you know Black-owned businesses are often more profitable than white-owned businesses, yet they’re still denied funding more often? We're breaking down why.
What every business owner should know about tax season
Tax season is almost here. In this episode of The CashPod, we break down key deadlines, must-know deductions, and tips on finding the right tax partner so that you’re not leaving your maximum refund (or minimum payment) on the table.
How to make this the year your business takes off
How can you make 2025 your most profitable year yet? DT and Ignacio break down how to set yourself, your team, and your business up for success. From uncovering hidden revenue opportunities to managing cash flow, we’re sharing the strategies that deliver real results.
Why raising money isn’t designed to be easy
Figuring out how to get funding can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide breaks down exactly what equity investors and lenders care about most—so you can focus on what matters and get the capital to grow your business.
How to use ROI to make smarter business choices
What is ROI and what does it really mean for your buisness (and more importantly, the growth of it)? Dive into how early revenue ties into your success, the link between marketing spend and financials, and why having clean books is crucial for figuring out ROI.
Why smart leaders lead with the bottom line
Do you often ask yourself if you’re a good leader? Especially when it comes to the money side? We're digging into what that entails, from building your team’s trust, to navigating those moments when you want to give your team that raise…but, the budget may not agree.
How to (finally) get that loan approved
Ever wondered why your loan applications keep. Getting. Rejected? We’re making sense of the whole borrowing game for small business owners. From different loan types to real talk on debt's reputation, we're here to help you see loans as a tool, not a trap. Tune in for tips on prepping for loan apps, understanding key financial metrics, and borrowing like a pro to grow your business.
What you need to know about CPG
Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) refers to a range of products that are used daily by consumers and need to be replaced frequently. These goods are typically sold in packaged form and include items such as food, beverages, cosmetics, and cleaning products. The CPG industry is a significant sector of the economy, with numerous companies dedicated to producing and marketing these essential products.
How secure funding can boost your business growth
Secure funding refers to a financial arrangement where the borrower provides collateral to the lender as a security for the loan. This type of funding is particularly beneficial for both parties as it reduces the risk for the lender and potentially offers better interest rates for the borrower. Collateral can range from real estate and vehicles to inventory and accounts receivable, depending on the lender’s requirements and the borrower’s assets.
How to take control of your debt planning
Let's be real: even entrepreneurs with a finance degree can get overwhelmed managing business finances.
How to secure venture capital for your CPG startup
Securing funding for your Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) startup can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies, you can attract the investment needed to grow your business. Here are some effective ways to get funding for your CPG startup.
5 essential finance services to support your CPG business
Securing funding is a crucial aspect of launching and growing a Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) business. The right finance services can provide the necessary capital to scale operations, develop products, and reach new markets. This blog will explore the various finance services available to CPG businesses and offer insights on how to secure funding effectively.
The 5 major types of loans
Loans are a great option to fuel business growth, but debt is a scary word.
