#2: Running a Leaner SMB in a Tough Economy, and Where AI Actually Pays Off

Costs are up, customers are spending carefully, and 43% of Canadian small business owners say 2026 is going worse than last year. Still, some businesses keep growing, and they’re doing it by running differently.

In episode 2 of Built on Growth, Anastasia Hambali brings on Nicole Parmar, Founder of OMTM.AI, to talk about how Canadian SMBs are really holding up right now and where technology makes a measurable difference, beyond writing emails and social posts.

Anastasia and Nicole go on to discuss what separates the businesses that are struggling from the ones still growing, why most owners have a “leak problem” instead of a lead problem, how much missed calls really cost, and how AI can catch that lost revenue. They also cover real examples for dental clinics, salons and HVAC businesses, the biggest AI myth to drop, and the red flags to watch for when buying AI tools or hiring consultants.

We appreciate you listening to Built on Growth and hope you enjoy this episode!

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