Square Partners with Guy Raz to Launch ‘The Way Up’: A Tribute to Local Business Innovation

In an inspiring move for small business owners, Square has launched a new video series titled “The Way Up,” hosted by acclaimed journalist Guy Raz. This series highlights the entrepreneurial journeys behind some of America’s most innovative local businesses, showcasing the grit and creativity that fuel their success. The inaugural episode is available today on Square’s platform, along with additional content across multiple channels.

Guy Raz, well-known for his work on NPR and his hit podcast “How I Built This,” emphasizes the importance of storytelling in understanding business growth. “Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to the human stories behind successful businesses,” he said. “With ‘The Way Up,’ we’re going deeper into these stories, showing how local businesses across America are reimagining their industries.”

Small business owners often face unique challenges, including competition from larger corporations and navigating the ever-evolving technological landscape. “The Way Up” aims to address these issues by showcasing real businesses that have turned obstacles into opportunities. The series features six diverse businesses that leverage technology and ingenuity to thrive:

• Nixta Taqueria: This Austin-based restaurant evolved from a pop-up to a James Beard Award-winning spot, demonstrating the potential of culinary innovation.
• Charles Pan-Fried Chicken: Led by two-time James Beard nominee Chef Charles Gabriel, this Harlem culinary staple brings soul food to new audiences across its three locations.
• The Sports Bra: Located in Portland, this venue caters specifically to women’s sports and is expanding to enhance community engagement.
• Vala’s Pumpkin Patch: This family-run business has transformed a 17-acre rental into a 450-acre seasonal attraction, illustrating how local businesses can grow their footprint.
• Green Apple Books: A shining example of an independent bookstore that has adapted successfully over the decades, demonstrating resilience in the face of digital competition.
• Rustler Hat Co.: This Nashville-based company combines craftsmanship with customer experience by offering custom hat-making, producing up to 200 hats daily.

The series not only highlights the success stories but also delves into the day-to-day operations that make these businesses unique. This offers actionable insights that small business owners can apply to their ventures, enriching their understanding of effective strategies and methods of resilience.

Square’s commitment to supporting small businesses is evident in the series’ mission. “At Square, we’re proud to support the millions of bold, imaginative sellers redefining what local business looks like today,” said Lindsey Irvine, Head of Marketing at Square. The series aims to inspire and empower business owners by showcasing real-world examples of how businesses adapt, innovate, and influence their communities.

The practical applications of the stories shared in “The Way Up” extend beyond basic entrepreneurial advice; they may help small business owners identify strategies that could streamline operations or amplify community impact. Whether it’s embracing digital tools for marketing or finding novel ways to engage with customers, the series presents a roadmap for success that many entrepreneurs can relate to.

However, as with any venture, challenges persist. Business owners watching the series should keep in mind the realities of scaling operations, adapting to new technologies, and managing community relations—all aspects that demand both time and resources. While the stories may inspire, they also serve as a reminder that success requires ongoing effort and adaptability.

“The Way Up” will be accessible on multiple platforms, including full episodes on Square’s YouTube channel and audio versions on Raz’s podcast. By easing access to this wealth of information and inspiration, Square aims to redefine what local business looks like in today’s economy. Small business owners can learn from real-world applications of innovative thinking and resilience demonstrated throughout the series.

For those looking to power their growth, the first episode of “The Way Up” is available now on Square’s publication, The Bottom Line. For more insights and resources on utilizing Square’s tools, visit Square.

To explore the series and discover how other businesses successfully navigated their journeys, visit the original announcement here.

Image Via BizSugar