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Welcome back to Care to CEO! In this powerful season finale, Crystal Smith dives into one of the most critical and challenging aspects of running a care-based business: real estate. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, this episode is packed with wisdom and hard-earned lessons on everything from choosing the right property and navigating leases to building real wealth and protecting yourself from common traps. Crystal Smith shares her personal journey, including the costly mistakes she made early on and how those experiences shaped her approach to real estate today. She breaks down the unique challenges care businesses face, why your first property should be a learning lab, and why renting might be the smartest move for new providers. They also cover tips for negotiating with landlords, handling licensing hurdles, and the importance of doing your local homework before signing anything. If you’re passionate about growing your care business or just want to avoid the missteps that can sink your company, this episode is essential listening. Get ready to walk away with practical insights, renewed confidence, and actionable steps for protecting your business and setting yourself up for long-term success. Timestamps: 00:00 "Real Estate: Balance of Roles" 04:27 Renting Over Buying 07:36 Avoid Early Lease Guarantees 09:55 "Confidence Over Details Matters" 16:09 Childcare Licensing and Zoning Variability 17:09 Navigating Home Care Zoning Requirements 22:56 "Start Small, Seek Counsel" 23:45 "Seek Legal Help and Resources" 27:28 "Strategic Thinking in Real Estate" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome to episode 12 of Care to CEO! In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Crystal Smith and her husband, Ryan Smith, pull back the curtain on what it's really like to build a healthcare business and a life together as a married couple. The duo dives into their journey from chaos to structure, navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and the unique challenges of balancing work, family, and faith. You'll hear candid stories about taking leaps of faith, overcoming business disagreements without hurting the marriage, and what it means to truly support your partner's dreams (even if it means jumping all-in on a brand new industry!). Crystal Smith and Ryan Smith share the systems and boundaries they've developed over the years, and how communication and a healthy dose of humor keep them moving forward. This episode is packed with lessons about leadership, legacy, and the power of partnership. Whether you're navigating your own business with a loved one or simply looking for insight on building something that matters, this candid conversation will give you real, relatable advice and leave you inspired to keep building your own legacy. Tune in and join the journey from care to CEO! Timestamps: 00:00 "Care to CEO: Our Journey" 05:42 "Faith, Trust, and Ambition" 08:16 "Beautiful Chaos of Everyday Life" 11:02 "Faith as Life's Compass" 13:41 Reliable Logistics Problem-Solver 17:51 "Unpacking and Patience" 22:38 "Importance of Clear Communication" 24:41 "Protecting Relationships and Peace" 26:54 "Sports Historian Husband Dreams" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the show where real-life experiences transform into ownership, leadership, and lasting legacy. In today’s episode, host Crystal Smith, an entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for breaking down barriers in the care industry, dives deep into the power of mentorship that doesn’t just hand out surface-level advice but lifts the curtain and truly opens doors. You’ll hear Crystal Smith reflect on her journey from feeling like an outsider, struggling with imposter syndrome and gatekeeping in her field, to building her own tables where everyone is welcome. She shares personal stories of perseverance, building generational wealth, and how she now champions other women and new care agency leaders to become CEOs themselves. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at her recent experience at a professional convention, insights on building supportive communities, and honest conversations about entrepreneurship, mentorship, and why asking for help is the ultimate strategy. If you’ve ever felt held back by self-doubt or struggled to find genuine support, this episode is for you. Crystal Smith opens up about what real mentorship looks like, why it’s especially vital for women, caregivers, and first-generation business owners, and how it’s never too early, or too late, to step into your power as a CEO. Stay tuned as Crystal Smith reminds us that success is not reserved for a select few, and building a legacy starts with showing up for yourself and others, every single day. Timestamps: 00:00 "Mentorship That Breaks Barriers" 06:43 Redefining Humble and Empowerment 11:24 "Struggling with Success Guilt" 17:28 Presence Speaks Louder Than Words 23:05 "Figuring Things Out Through Calls" 28:12 Fear, Confidence, and Sharing Information 36:18 Unlocking Your Natural Potential 43:11 Caregiver to CEO Mindset Shift 44:33 "Delegation Over Control" 51:06 Clarity, Structure, Accountability 56:13 "Overcoming Hesitation to Start" 01:01:38 "Mentorship, Access, and Care Business" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome to the 10th episode of Care to CEO! This is the show where caregivers learn to step confidently into entrepreneurship and turn their passion for helping others into thriving, profitable businesses. In this milestone episode, care business expert Crystal Smith gives an honest deep dive into one of the trickiest (and most crucial) parts of running a business: pricing. So many caregivers struggle with putting a dollar value on the work that comes so naturally to them. Crystal shares her journey from undercharging out of guilt to claiming her worth and building an impactful, sustainable care agency. Crystal has an open conversation about overcoming the mindset blocks around money, shifting from a caregiver to a CEO perspective, and the nuts and bolts of setting rates with confidence, whether you’re working with Medicaid, private pay, or contracts. You’ll hear real stories about setting boundaries, honoring the value of your services, and why you simply can’t build an empire if you’re afraid to invoice. Crystal offers tips for new agency owners on researching their market, factoring in those easily-forgotten expenses, and how to powerfully communicate their worth: no guilt, no apology. If you’ve ever wondered how to price your care services, battle with imposter syndrome, or just need a boost to stand firm in your value, this episode is your permission slip to finally charge what you’re worth and build the business you deserve. Tune in to get inspired, empowered, and equipped for your next bold step as a Care to CEO! Timestamps: 00:00 Caregiving to CEO Mindset Transition 06:09 Pricing and Value in Social Services 08:54 Transforming Confidence Through Care 12:43 "Strictly 24-Hour Care Model" 16:16 "Benefits of 24/7 Care Model" 17:16 Bold Goals Beat Fearful Limits 20:33 Changing Views on Property Leasing 24:05 "Owning and Showing Your Value" 29:33 "Proven Success Through Foundations" 33:00 "Building Value Through Networking" 34:33 "Knowing Your Worth, Women" 37:16 "Price Confidently, Build Powerfully" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the podcast where we empower real people to build thriving care businesses. In this episode, the inspiring Crystal Smith digs into a topic that’s truly at the heart of any successful care company: client retention. Crystal shares lessons learned from her years of experience, from landing that vital first client to building systems that keep clients, families, and caseworkers coming back. You’ll hear practical tips on how to make new clients feel safe from day one, the top reasons care agencies lose clients, and what it takes to build trust through strong communication and follow-up. Plus, Crystal opens up about the key systems she’s put in place to make sure no client or team member falls through the cracks, and how client experience has become her best marketing tool. Whether you’re just starting your care agency or looking to level up your retention game, Crystal’s transparent, actionable advice will show you how retention, reputation, and real relationships are the true foundations of a thriving care business. Stay tuned for insights on creating a genuinely supportive culture and Crystal’s next step: mentoring other care entrepreneurs. Let’s dive in! Timestamps: 00:00 Retention and Relationship in Caregiving 04:57 Navigating Post-Honeymoon Adjustments 08:09 Avoiding Common Client Service Mistakes 11:56 Nonstop Meetings and Updates 14:55 The Power of Word-of-Mouth 16:22 Choosing Caregiver Systems: Research & Options 20:46 Embracing New Business Passions 23:14 Open Feedback Embraced 27:44 Empathy and Feedback in Caregiving 30:30 Client Retention and Business Growth 32:08 "Exciting Conversation Awaited" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the podcast that proves extraordinary care businesses are built by ordinary people; no white coats or business degrees required. In today’s episode, you´ll hear from the inspiring Crystal Smith, owner, coach, and mentor, who’s living proof that all you need is heart, commitment, and the right guidance to step into the world of home care entrepreneurship. Think you need a ton of experience, medical credentials, or deep pockets to start your own home care agency? Think again. Crystal breaks down the biggest myths about this purpose-driven industry, digs into the mindset shifts required to go from caregiver to CEO, and unpacks the real roadblocks and rewards of owning a care business. You’ll hear Crystal’s honest advice about system-building, growth mindset, and why sustainable success starts with putting people first. Plus, Crystal shares a powerful client story that will have you rethinking what’s possible for yourself. Whether you’re curious about launching your first business, seeking mentorship, or just need a little encouragement, this episode is your permission slip to believe you can do it and that you don’t have to do it alone. Stay tuned as we turn purpose into profit and show you how to build a care business that changes lives, including your own. Timestamps: 00:00 From Task Focus to Strategic Leadership 03:33 "Misconceptions in System Building" 09:12 "Turning Purpose into Profit" 13:22 Coaching Bridges Home Care Gaps 17:13 Home Care: Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship 18:52 "Empowerment for Aspiring Care Leaders" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the go-to podcast for people dreaming of building real businesses in the care industry. In today’s episode, Crystal Smith takes us on the journey from securing a license to landing that all-important first paying client. Crystal shares the unfiltered story behind her entrepreneurial beginnings: the mistakes, the setbacks, the hustle, and the invaluable lessons she learned along the way. She digs into why trust, reputation, and word-of-mouth matter far more than flashy ads when you’re just starting out, and offers real-world strategies for getting your name out there, even if you’re feeling intimidated or uncertain. Whether you’re frozen by fear, stuck after becoming licensed, or needing a nudge to get moving, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement that proves you don’t have to be perfect; just present, prepared, and persistent. So if you’re ready to turn your care business dreams into dollars, tune in and let Crystal show you how she did it and how you can too. Timestamps: 00:00 Starting a Residential Care Business 06:34 Relationships Drive Client Acquisition 09:38 Trust as Marketability 13:13 Embrace Learning and Consistency 16:14 "Emphasize In-Person Networking" 20:34 Networking with Ohio's County MRDD Boards 22:31 "Fully-Furnished Rentals Appeal" 26:58 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Politics 31:17 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 32:26 "Unexpected Business Growth Journey" 37:45 "Sporty Business Attire Evolution" 39:12 "Overcome Fear: Lead with Action" 41:58 "Get Clients: Be Present, Persist" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the podcast where everyday caregivers transform into confident care entrepreneurs. In this episode, Crystal Smith - Mother, former CNA, Black Woman CEO, and City Councilwoman - digs into the real, often untold truth: women of color, especially caregivers, are not the underdogs. In fact, they’re uniquely built for business leadership. Crystal shares her inspiring journey from managing a multigenerational household to founding her own care business and winning a city council seat. She unveils how the so-called "soft skills" develop through a lifetime of caregiving, like resilience, resourcefulness, and emotional intelligence. These are actually women's greatest business strengths. Crystal tackles the realities of impostor syndrome, being underestimated, and turning adversity into advantage. Get ready for actionable insights, hard-won wisdom, and a strong message: those everyday skills you use to care for your family and community are the very building blocks of a powerful entrepreneurial legacy. If you’re a caregiver or a woman of a minority considering entrepreneurship, this episode will leave you feeling seen, equipped, and empowered to just start, because your story, your strength, and your leadership matter now more than ever. Timestamps: 00:00 Innate Leadership in Adversity 03:57 Leadership Rooted in Compassion 07:23 Recognizing Undervalued Soft Skills 10:41 Empowering Entrepreneurs of Color 14:28 Entrepreneurial Journey: Triumphs and Trials 17:58 Mentorship for Marginalized Communities 21:28 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 25:12 "Embrace Trial and Error" 26:31 "Just Start Your Journey" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to another episode of Care to CEO, the show where caregivers and everyday people get the inside scoop on building confident, sustainable care businesses. In today’s episode, host Crystal Smith — a care business owner who’s seen it all — is here to dig into the often overlooked, “unsexy” essentials that keep your business alive: finding the right team, setting up effective systems, and keeping your own sanity intact. Crystal shares her candid journey, from the early days of hiring just to fill shifts (and the chaos that followed), to learning why empathy, flexibility, and communication matter more than credentials when building a staff that truly cares. She talks openly about the hard lessons she learned trying to do it all herself, how she finally mastered delegation, and the digital tools and systems that now let her step away from the business without missing a beat. Whether you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of your growing care business, this episode is packed with actionable advice, practical tools, and real talk about what it takes to survive — and thrive — in the care industry. If you’re ready to build a business that won’t fall apart when life gets messy, you won’t want to miss Crystal’s insights on staffing, systems, and the heart of successful care leadership. Timestamps: 00:00 Screening for Values Beyond Resumes 06:55 Empathy in Action 08:45 "Collaborative Problem-Solving and Integrity" 13:26 Transition to Britco System 15:48 "Systems Restore CEO's Peace" 19:06 Empowering Staff Through Teamwork 24:33 "Set Up Access Care Early" 28:04 "Care Business Survival & Mentorship" 28:58 Gratitude and Farewell Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the podcast where caregivers become confident care entrepreneurs. In this candid episode, “The Ugly Truth: The Hardest Parts of Running a Care Business,” host Crystal Smith pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build and sustain a care-based business. You’ll hear Crystal’s raw reflections on staffing nightmares, staying compliant, emotional burnout, and those moments when everything seems to fall apart at once. She shares personal stories, like the unforgettable day when staff quit, clients threatened to walk, and her own child fell ill, and reveals how she found the resilience to keep going. From learning the critical difference between hiring hands and hiring hearts, to the ongoing challenges of compliance (“the license is just the wedding, compliance is the marriage”), Crystal gets real about the emotional and organizational tolls of entrepreneurship. She also opens up about the importance of self-care, learning to ask for help, and forging strong boundaries to avoid burnout. Whether you’re just dreaming of starting your own agency or are deep in the trenches, this episode is packed with advice, hard lessons, and the encouragement you need to stay in the game, even when it gets messy. Timestamps: 00:00 Entrepreneurship: A Heartbreaking Calling 04:14 Overcoming Crisis with Resilience 07:32 "Heart Over Skills in Home Care" 12:31 Organizing: Key to Legacy Building 14:58 Embracing Self-Care and Balance 19:15 Boundaries Bridge, Protect, Empower 20:43 Rethinking Boundaries as Bridges 25:42 Learning to Delegate with Love 28:52 Clutter Reflects Mental Health Struggles 31:06 Challenges of Building a Business 34:59 "Embrace Solitude in Business" 38:34 Networking for Success 41:46 Breaking Cycles, Empowering Women 46:40 Strategic Thinking Reflection 47:30 Coping with Leadership Stress Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the podcast that helps caregivers and underdogs take bold steps toward confident business ownership in the care industry! In this episode, host Crystal Smith cuts through the confusion around getting licensed —and getting paid — for a home care business. Crystal shares her personal journey, practical steps, and plenty of hard-won wisdom on how to navigate the paperwork, state requirements, and the all-important approval process to become a Medicaid or state-funded provider. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by confusing government websites, unsure of what license you really need, or just stuck googling into the void, this episode is your go-to guide. Crystal walks us through the exact steps she took: choosing her business structure, opening the right doors at state agencies, leveraging mentorship, and building her network. She talked about common mistakes (so you don’t make them!), working with reviewers, setting up for renewal, and even how to diversify your funding streams. Plus, Crystal shares that sometimes “starting scared” is the best way to get going — no matter how daunting it all seems. So whether you’re just dreaming or deep into your application, tune in for real-world tips and inspiring stories to help you launch and grow your care business. Let’s get you from uncertainty to approval, and from care to CEO — together! Timestamps: 00:00 Overcoming Licensing Challenges 05:53 Licensing Challenges for New Businesses 08:16 Choosing a Path in Caregiving 11:23 Medicaid Payee Approval Process 15:48 Foster Care Challenges and Experiences 18:59 Medical Coding for Billing Payments 22:47 "Effective Communication and Responsiveness" 23:51 Application Process Challenges and Review 27:10 Helpful Feedback from Reviewer 33:08 Power of Mentorship 36:28 "Embracing Help and Delegation" 39:15 Affordable Help and Rachel's Book 40:59 Mentorship: Driven to Elevate Others 43:35 Embrace Action Despite Fear Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome back to Care to CEO, the podcast that empowers caregivers, everyday people, and underdogs to embrace their inner entrepreneur - especially in the care industry. In today’s episode, host Crystal Smith, a trailblazer in group homes and behavioral health housing, to uncover a business opportunity most of us have never even considered owning: the group home and non-skilled care business.  Crystal shares her inspiring journey from caregiver to CEO, breaking down myths about the industry, revealing how accessible and rewarding this work can be, and giving step-by-step insights from her own experience.  Whether you’re a CNA, a home health aide, or someone with a passion for helping others, Crystal’s story and practical advice show that you don’t need a trust fund or a fancy degree to build a legacy -- just heart, determination, and the willingness to start. Get ready for a real, raw conversation that might just change the way you see your future. Timestamps: 00:00 Understanding Group Homes 03:11 Impromptu Park Outing Success 09:12 Starting a Home Care Business 10:32 Balancing Daily Tasks and Ambitions 15:03 Opportunity in First Responder Care 18:03 "Quick Success in Home Care" 21:08 Insightful Real-World Business Examples 26:28 Endless Demand for Care Services 29:50 "Empowering Frontline Caregivers" 31:36 Motivation: Key to Overcoming Challenges 36:37 Pushing Through Challenges 39:47 Seeking Guidance at Conventions 41:53 Relatable Success through Hardship 44:43 "What Would Crystal Do?" Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

Welcome to Episode 1 of Care to CEO! In this inspiring kickoff, we introduce you to our host: Crystal Smith, a remarkable caregiver-turned-entrepreneur who shares her heartfelt journey from humble beginnings as a caretaker for her great-grandmother to becoming the CEO of a home care business. Crystal opens up about her childhood in Canton, Ohio, her family’s strong work ethic, and how the invaluable skills she learned caring for loved ones naturally evolved into running her own business.  She discusses the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the realities of being undervalued as a frontline worker, and the empowering moment she decided to bet on herself - transforming not just her own life, but the lives of those around her. From pivoting during the uncertainties of Covid to opening her home to those in need, Crystal’s story is a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of turning care into action.  Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a healthcare worker, or someone searching for inspiration, this episode will remind you that the skills you have - and your heart for helping others - might just be the blueprint for your own success. Timestamps: 00:00 From Caregiver to Entrepreneur Mentor 04:02 "From Caretaker to Entrepreneur" 08:58 Natural Caregiver's Journey 12:32 "Undervalued Healthcare Workers' Plight" 15:22 "Perseverance as a Single Mother" 20:12 Starting a Mentorship Business Journey 23:54 "Embracing Pressure to Succeed" 26:35 24-Hour Childcare for Special Needs 28:45 Balanced Life Through Caregiving 33:04 Emergency Respite Care Decisions 34:43 Support Challenges in Service Industry 40:16 Examples of Envy and Progress 41:56 "Natural Humility as Success Blueprint" 44:35 Eager for Episode Two Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”

The only podcast built for underdog entrepreneurs, everyday people, and caregivers who want to build their own care-based business (Group Homes, Home Care, Foster Care, Behavioral Health Housing, Veteran Housing, etc.) without a trust fund or a fancy degree. This show is hosted by Crystal Smith, a former CNA turned CEO & City Councilwoman, who shares the real, unfiltered, from-the-trenches playbook, helping you focus on the transformation journey from being an overworked and underpaid worker to becoming CEO and business owner — just like Crystal did — with tactical steps, mindset shifts, mentorship, and hard truths. Care to CEO - Podcast Show Website - https://caretoceo.com/ Crystal Smith - https://www.crystalsmithandco.com/ Crystal Smith Mentoring - https://ft.crystalsmith.online/ TopHealth - https://tophealth.care/ “Disclaimer: Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your doctor for guidance.”