The Transcript

Summary

In this episode of the Brews & Buzzwords podcast, George Arabian sits down with Agnes Lan, founder of Change Connect, to talk entrepreneurship, leadership, and the story behind the Small and Mighty Summit. Agnes shares her personal journey from corporate life to launching a consulting firm, and how she’s built a career by focusing on authenticity, strategic thinking, and helping small businesses thrive.

From Corporate to Founder

Agnes reflects on starting Change Connect during her maternity leave, calling it her “second child.” What began as a leap of faith turned into a 14-year journey of helping small and mid-sized businesses transform the way they work. She explains how choosing which battles to fight and focusing energy where it matters has helped her grow her company without sacrificing values. Her entrepreneurial story is rooted in purpose and persistence, not hustle for hustle’s sake.

Why Small and Mighty Matters

The conversation also dives into the upcoming Small and Mighty Summit, an event Agnes created to support the overlooked powerhouses of the B2B world—small to mid-sized companies. She shares how the summit is designed to deliver real, usable insights for businesses looking to scale and adapt. It’s not about flashy presentations; it’s about practical takeaways and connections that move the needle. Agnes emphasizes that small businesses have the agility to lead, not just follow, and that the summit is a space to tap into that potential.

Lessons in Leadership and Growth

Agnes and George touch on themes of resilience, generosity in networking, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Whether it’s learning to pivot or choosing to invest in people over profit, Agnes offers grounded advice that resonates with anyone growing a business. Her belief in the power of relationships—built without expectation—shows up in both her leadership style and her approach to community building.

Conclusion

This episode offers a refreshing look at entrepreneurship from someone who’s lived every stage of it. Agnes Lan reminds us that success isn’t about scale alone—it’s about clarity, connection, and consistency. For leaders and founders navigating the next chapter of growth, this conversation offers both inspiration and actionable insights. And if you’re ready to connect with others walking the same path, the Small and Mighty Summit might just be the place to start.