The economy might look stable on the surface—but what’s really happening underneath tells a different story. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Ben Johnston to break down what’s actually impacting small businesses today.
From rising interest rates and inflation to global conflict and supply chain uncertainty, Ben explains why small business owners are feeling pressure even as broader economic indicators remain steady.
They also explore the second-order effects of global disruption, including energy price spikes, shifting manufacturing trends, and how international instability could ripple back into the U.S. economy over time.
Plus, a deep dive into AI’s growing impact—how it’s reshaping small business operations, reducing headcount needs, and fueling a new wave of solopreneurs.
*🔑 Topics Covered*
* Why the economy feels stable but small businesses feel pressure
* Impact of inflation, tariffs, and rising interest rates
* How global conflict affects supply chains and pricing
* “Second-order effects” and what they mean for the future
* AI’s impact on jobs, hiring, and business efficiency
* The rise of solopreneurs and leaner businesses
* Practical advice for small business owners navigating uncertainty
*🤝 Connect*
* Ryan Alford –https://www.ryanalford.com
* Ben Johnston –https://kapitus.com
