Podcast 199: How Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Can Transform Local Economies with Martin Vanags

Where “just one more meeting” actually helps your business

17 Nov 2025 — 3 min read

In this episode, Dane talks with longtime friend of the show Marty Vanags, founder of Martin Karl Consulting and creator of the Circles of Seven (C7) peer mentoring model for small businesses. Marty brings more than three decades of experience in economic development and community leadership, and he shares why the businesses between startup and stability are the ones that need the most attention and often receive the least.

Marty explains how C7 groups work. Each group consists of six small businesses and one trained mentor who meet every month to discuss curated topics such as marketing, finance, leadership, and daily operations. Every session includes articles, videos, and guided questions so owners can learn from each other instead of listening to a formal instructor. These peer conversations build confidence, reveal blind spots, and help entrepreneurs tackle real challenges with practical advice from people who understand what they face.

He breaks down why post startup companies struggle. They often lack time, cash flow, and a supportive network. Many owners feel isolated once the early excitement fades and the real work begins. C7 gives them a structured place to talk honestly about their problems and victories. The impact is long lasting. Some groups from the original 2008 cohort are still meeting today after seventeen years.

For economic developers, Marty describes how C7 programs can significantly strengthen BRE efforts. Supporting existing businesses creates a healthier local economy and makes a community more appealing to future prospects. Marty puts it simply. To attract, you must be attractive. A strong environment for current businesses sends a powerful message to companies looking at your community.

The conversation also touches on generational differences, the importance of returning to in person interaction after the COVID period, Martys Next Wave Leadership program for early career economic developers, and the value of curated content in shaping leadership culture.

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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers

Target the "liminal stage" -- businesses past the startup phase but not yet established need the most support and often have the fewest resources.
Build peer-to-peer programs, not just classes -- small businesses learn better from each other than from lectures.
Recruit strong facilitators, not "experts" -- a good mentor is a steady guide, not a guru.
Create predictable monthly prompts (articles, videos, questions) to spark meaningful discussion.
Require at least 30 minutes on the main topic so participants get what they came for.
Train facilitators in group dynamics, not business theory -- their job is to manage conversation, not teach.
Use C7-style programs as BRE tools -- they put you in front of businesses you rarely interact with.
Remember cash flow and time are always the biggest pain points for small businesses.
Encourage in-person interaction -- especially post-COVID, live meetings build deeper relationships and accountability.
Measure success by longevity -- if your groups keep meeting years later, your ecosystem is working.