In this episode of Local Vibes, hosts Angie and Pat chat with
Tim Labatzky of
Patriot Owned Businesses about his military family background, his experiences with small business, and the growth of his Facebook group, also called
Patriot Owned Businesses, which supports American businesses.
They discuss the challenges small businesses face against large corporations, the importance of community support, and the group's non-political stance, focusing on unity and patriotism. Tim also addresses monetization efforts and future plans for the group, including events and a marketplace.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9sCH7a1lqQ
Nurturing Patriotism and Entrepreneurship: A Deep Dive with Tim Labatzky
As the host of the
Local Vibes podcast, I've had the pleasure of engaging with some truly inspiring individuals who are making a significant impact in their communities. In one of our most recent live episodes, I sat down with Tim Labatzky, the force behind Patriot Owned Businesses, to discuss the remarkable journey of his initiative and the profound effect it has had on American businesses and the broader community.
The Genesis of Patriot Owned Businesses
Our conversation began with Tim sharing his deeply personal connection to the military and small businesses. Coming from a family with a strong military background and having witnessed the struggles of his own family's business endeavors, Tim's life has been steeped in the values of service and entrepreneurship. His poignant recollection of overhearing his father's concerns about paying employees, rather than himself, left an indelible mark on Tim and fueled his passion for supporting American businesses.
A Community of Support and Growth
Tim's creation of the Patriot Owned Businesses Facebook group and its subsequent growth to 17.4 thousand members is nothing short of impressive. The group's mission is clear: to support American businesses and foster a culture of like-minded, hardworking individuals who share a love for the USA. As a business owner myself, with over 25 years in website and
marketing design, I was immediately drawn to the group's supportive nature and its dedication to connecting businesses across the nation.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change
Throughout our discussion, Tim highlighted the challenges of managing such a large community, especially in the face of ever-changing social media landscapes. He shared insights into adapting posting strategies to maintain engagement and the importance of honest feedback when dealing with negative reviews or misinformation about businesses.
The Power of Local Support
A recurring theme in our conversation was the importance of
supporting local businesses, especially when competing against larger corporations. Tim and I discussed the impact of community support on the local economy and the need for small businesses to band together. Tim's commitment to promoting patriot-owned businesses and organizing events that bring the community together, such as networking events and fundraisers, truly showcases the power of collective effort.
The Struggle Against Big Chains
Tim didn't shy away from addressing the elephant in the room: the dominance of large chains like McDonald's, Amazon, Walmart, and Starbucks. He expressed concern over the influence of global corporations and the importance of consumers supporting businesses that align with their values. The conversation underscored the need for small businesses to unite in the face of such competition.