10KSB Reflections: I Didn’t Know I Needed This

The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program had been on my radar for a couple of years. When I spotted their booth at an event with my friend Alma Loveland, I told her I had heard this program is supposed to be amazing and we should check it out. We chatted with the rep, asked our questions, and by the end of the conversation, we looked at each other and agreed we should both apply!

When I applied, I thought maybe I’d pick up a few business tips, connect with some other small business owners, and then get back to work. What I didn’t expect was how much I’d love the learning, the community, and the networking!

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses - Salt Lake City, UT Cohort 36

The Education Was No Joke

As a serial workshop and class taker, I can honestly say the instructors and curriculum were next level. Everything was thoughtfully built for entrepreneurs who are actually in it.

From operations to leadership to financials (I love a good Spreadsheet!), the content was top notch. They created an environment where collaboration just worked. We walked into class as fellow entrepreneurs, and I left with a room full of friends who were genuinely rooting for me.

One of the biggest gifts of the program was each scholar gets access to a business advisor. My business advisor, Kathy was incredible! She was on my team from day one. She asked great questions, thought through my business with me, and helped me get through every module. Honestly, she was the best cheerleader, full of insight, and had this amazing way of applying big ideas to whatever business you were in.

I Didn’t Know I Needed This

I spend a lot of time doing and solving problems on the fly. This program gave me space to zoom out. To reflect. To think big.

We talked about revenue, pivots, hiring, growth, goals—all the things small business owners carry but don’t always say out loud. And it felt really good to say them out loud.

Even more powerful? The framework they gave us to think backwards from a goal. Instead of running toward some vague “more,” we got super clear on what success looks like. Then worked backward to figure out the real steps to get there. That’s not something I usually take time to do in the middle of my normal work week. But I am excited to work through this.

I Loved the People

I’ve never thought of myself as a “networker.” I typically prefer to observe, but I’m starting to think maybe I just hadn’t been in the right rooms or I didn’t give myself permission to be heard in these spaces. My Cohort was full of smart, scrappy, kind people building businesses. Getting to talk shop with them was really inspiring. I loved learning their stories and what they are excited about in the future.

I’ve been in the same creative bubble for 18 years. This program broke that wide open. It was refreshing to meet people from all industries. We had people in retail, food, construction, tech, real estate, you name it. As entrepreneurs, it was so great seeing how different and similar our challenges really are. I also LOVED learning about leadership styles and personality types. There’s something energizing about being surrounded by people who are asking the same questions but bringing totally different perspectives.

And shoutout to my Growth Group. The Funtastic 4!!! You were sharp, generous, and genuinely fun. Best group ever.

A Few Extra Takeaways That Really Stuck

• Small changes when done strategically can lead to big results.

• You can’t grow your business if you’re too busy running it.

• Business challenges are surprisingly universal—regardless of industry.

• Knowing your numbers makes decision-making so much easier.

• Stepping away from the day-to-day is where real clarity happens.

Would I Recommend It?

In a heartbeat.

If you’re a small business owner looking to grow, and you're open to learning, sharing, and stretching yourself, you’ll thrive in this program. It really helps build a powerful foundation. And the community? Chef’s kiss.

P.S. Want to Talk About It?

If you're thinking about applying to 10KSB or just want to hear more about my experience, feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to share what I learned or just be your cheerleader if you’re on the fence.