When disaster hits, it's not just about weathering the storm—it’s about rising stronger on the other side. This episode is a powerful look at how to turn devastation into determination, featuring Ewell Smith’s incredible journey in helping the Louisiana seafood industry recover from Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill. Entire communities were torn apart, boats destroyed, and trust shattered, but Ewell shares how they came together, fought for support, and rebuilt their livelihoods against the odds. His stories of resilience, grit, and finding opportunity in crisis are a reminder that no matter how overwhelming a setback may seem, there’s always a way forward. Whether you're facing your own business challenge or just need a dose of inspiration, this episode will leave you feeling empowered to take action and transform obstacles into opportunities.About our Guest:As a certified franchise consultant, Ewell Smith guides career professionals, corporate refugees, and Veterans to business ownership. With over 17 years of experience leading major business trade associations, representing thousands of entrepreneurs, he is an avid ambassador of entrepreneurship. Ewell served as Executive Director of the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board for nearly 13 years, helping thousands of business owners flourish and also work through the challenges navigating disasters like hurricanes Katrina and the BP Oil Spill rebuilding billions in lost sales twice.Ewell is theAuthor of Your First Franchise Roadmap and host of the Your First Franchise Podcast, he interviews franchisors and franchise leaders to share valuable insights.https://www.yourfirstfranchise.com/ https://www.closethedeal.com/ About the Host:Your host, Maartje van Krieken, brings a wealth of experience from the front lines of business turmoil. With a background in crisis management, managing transformation and complex collaboration, she has successfully guided numerous organizations through their most challenging times. Her unique perspective and practical approach make her the go to First Responder in the arena of business turmoil and crisis.Podcast Homepage: https://www.thebusinessemergencyroom.com/https://www.thechaosgamesconsulting.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/Thanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.