How to Stay in Business When Money is Tight

What happens when sales drop, bills pile up, and payroll looks impossible? Cash flow struggles are the #1 reason small businesses fail—and in tough times, the wrong moves can sink you faster. But with the right survival playbook, you can not only keep your doors open but actually come out stronger.

In this episode, Ralph Estep Jr. pulls from 30+ years as an accountant, coach, and fellow small business owner to deliver gritty, real-world strategies for navigating financial crunches. From negotiating with landlords to finding quick wins for cash, Ralph shares practical, battle-tested advice that transforms mere “survival” into transformative recovery.

Read today's blog article:
https://www.gritandgrowthbusiness.com/blog/business-survival-guide/
https://gritandgrowthbusiness.com/staying-in-business-when-money-is-tight

👉 Download today’s free action sheet: https://www.gritandgrowthbusiness.com/action
👉 Book a free 15-minute discovery call: https://www.gritandgrowthbusiness.com/coaching/
👉 Free live coaching Tuesdays 8PM EST: https://www.gritandgrowthbusiness.com/live

Podcast Timestamps
00:00 – The Big Question: How do I stay in business when money is tight?
04:14 – Ralph’s 30-Year Perspective: In the trenches with you
05:13 – Case Study: Restaurant owner survives through communication
06:18 – Case Study: Contractor cuts staff and loses recovery
06:49 – Survival vs. Recovery: Why “just surviving” doesn’t work
08:51 – Step 1: Know your numbers—cash flow is king
09:29 – Step 2: Slash expenses—must haves vs. nice to haves
11:06 – Step 3: Communicate early with vendors and lenders
12:47 – Step 4: Protect your talent—don’t cut your best staff
15:00 – Step 5: Target your marketing—focus on current customers
18:41 – Step 6: Find quick wins for cash—discounts, bundles, prepaid sales
19:34 – Step 7: Keep selling—don’t shrink back
22:21 – The Gritty Action Plan: Cash clarity, expense triage, negotiation, and customer focus
28:04 – Key Questions: Cash, expenses, core customers, quick cash strategies
30:12 – Run your business like you only have three months to survive
31:46 – Recap and survival playbook
32:18 – Free 15-Minute Discovery Call Invitation
33:17 – Weekly Live Coaching Invite
33:25 – Download Today’s Action Plan and Final Encouragement

Schedule an Appointment with Saggio Management Group, Inc.
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The Ask Ralph Media Podcast has been honored as the Best Christian Finance Podcast in the U.S. for 2025 by Best of Best Review. This prestigious award recognizes the show’s unwavering commitment to blending biblical wisdom with practical financial guidance, empowering listeners to make wise money decisions rooted in faith. Through its concise, impactful 10–12 minute episodes, the Ask Ralph Podcast has inspired and equipped audiences nationwide, standing out among countless voices in the finance and faith space.
https://bestofbestreview.com/awards/ask-ralph-media-inc-best-christian-finance-podcast-in-the-u-s-of-2025