The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast

How to Go From ‘Making Things’ to Making Money with David Kisan

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you're a fantastic creative but your business skills could use a quick tune-up, this episode is for you.

This week, Holly sits down with David Kisan, founder of Sip-N-Bloom, the floral workshop business that has grown from offering local events to partnering with major global brands.

And yes, they talk flowers… but that’s not all this episode is about.

This conversation is about the shift every creative entrepreneur must make if they want their business to grow and make money.

David is a great example of someone who didn’t rely only on talent. He built systems. He stayed curious. He prioritized learning the business side of florals.

In this episode, Holly and David break down simple steps you can take to shift into a CEO mindset and build a business that works.

So if you’re a creative who wants to stop just making things and start building something profitable and sustainable for the long run… listen in!

In this episode you’ll learn:

01:53 — The moment Sip-N-Bloom became more than a cute idea

05:58 — A simple design choice that changed everything

10:00 — David's path from family roots to modern entrepreneurship

12:47 — The shutdown that forced a reinvention many creatives avoided

20:46 — Why early AI experimentation will shape businesses

33:54 — The power of tight brand alignment (and the impact it creates)

35:52 — The email that shifted the business trajectory overnight

48:37 — Proof that small opportunities can become major partnerships

59:01 — What scaling a creative business actually looks like

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How To Feel Good In Your Own Skin with Sal Rodriguez

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

What if your next chapter look like if you truly felt good about exactly who you are?

In this episode, Holly sits down with makeup artist Sal Rodriguez, whose twenty-year career has painted faces, built confidence, and proven that reinvention is always possible. From his first job at Nordstrom to leading makeup teams for global brands like NARS, Sal shares the story of leaving the safety of a dream job to build something entirely his own.

They talk about the fear that comes with starting over, the art of reading people beyond their selfies, and why originality (not trends) is still the boldest look in the room.

This is a conversation about trusting your craft, knowing your worth, and how to truly feel good... in your own skin.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[02:28] The unexpected first job that launched a lifelong love for beauty

[07:54] Lessons learned behind iconic brands, and the moment Sal chose to start over

[13:35] What rebuilding from scratch really looks like after walking away from “safe”

[18:42] Why internal confidence has nothing to do with external makeup

[24:10] The real story behind building trust, authenticity, and a business that lasts

[31:56] A moment of pure gratitude that has forever changed how Sal sees his work

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Sal Rodriguez on Instagram

How To Transform Your Future In Just 2 Months

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

2025 isn’t over. Not even close. While everyone else is coasting toward the holidays, you’ve still got time to build serious momentum when it comes to building or scaling your business.

In this episode, Holly talks about how to finish the year strong, not with hustle or burnout, but with intention that will get you results. She shares the mindset shift that separates those who wait for things to happen to them from those who decide. It’s specific actions that quietly move the needle, you’ll get a 60-day plan that’ll set your next year on FIRE.

If you’ve been tempted to throw in the towel on 2025, this is your sign to tune in - because your future self isn’t waiting for January. She’s waiting for you to start…now!

In this episode you’ll learn:

[01:19] Why this time of year is your biggest opportunity to transform your future.

[04:24] The surprising mindset shift that helps you finish strong without burning out.

[06:00] The small daily moves that build the kind of momentum that makes an impact.

[10:06] What Holly’s focusing on for a powerful 2026.

[12:04] The simple framework that can turn two months into your most productive stretch of the year.

[13:24] How to align your next move with who you’re becoming.

[16:57] The hidden factor that makes or breaks your growth, and how to make it work for you.

[21:51] A challenge that'll change how you see the rest of the year and remind you what’s possible for your future.

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What Can Happen When You Take Something Over and Make It Yours with Hillary Spriezer

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Sometimes we get handed something we didn’t create - a business, a team, a problem - and our success depends on what we do next.

Hillary Spreizer, CEO of The Latitude Group, knows that moment well. She bought an existing company and rebuilt it into something aligned, modern, and deeply her own. This episode is about that process - what it takes to step into someone else’s vision, rewrite the story, and lead with clarity, heart, and standards.

Holly and Hillary talk about redefining protecting company integrity, making tough calls, and learning to trust your instincts when treading in unknown territory.

If you’ve ever inherited something that didn’t start with you - this conversation will change how you see what’s possible.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[03:22] How Hillary found the opportunity to buy an existing business (and what made her say yes).

[07:14] The biggest mindset shift from employee to owner.

[12:45] How she navigated imposter syndrome and fear during the transition.

[17:38] The three things she focused on in her first 90 days as CEO.

[24:10] Building a boutique brand that stands out in a crowded market.

[36:42] What scaling actually looks like inside a small but mighty consulting firm.

[48:56] Setting boundaries with clients and protecting your time as a leader.

[1:03:12] Lessons on leading with intention, clarity, and purpose as you grow.

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The Smartest Bet You'll Ever Make In Your Business with Jaime Taets

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Everyone has advice on where business owners should put their energy. Whether it's creating a new offer, spending more on marketing, or building a bigger team. The noise is endless. But when it all quiets down, there’s really only one bet that pays off every time.

In this episode, Holly sits down with Jaime Taets, Founder and Chief Vision Officer of Keystone Group International, to talk the winning bet every business owner must make in their business. Jaime shares her entrepreneurial story over the past 13 years where she's led Keystone through the highs, lows, and pivots. Together, Holly and Jaime talk about the messy parts of building a business, the lessons that came from both wins and failures, and why resilience and vision are the real non-negotiables to building something that lasts.

If you’ve been stuck in second-guessing mode or waiting for permission to go all in, this episode is for you.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[02:34] The subtle signs that tell you it’s time to make a big move in your career or business

[06:55] Why the people closest to you may not always be the best ones to share your big ideas with

[13:18] The messy middle of leadership and what to expect when you’re learning as you go

[20:56] A powerful framework for building a culture that actually fuels growth (and what to avoid)

[24:44] The hard lesson that almost made Jaime walk away from her business and what came next

[28:03] The unexpected challenge outside of business that reshaped how Jaime approaches risk

[33:19] The #1 place to bet if you want your business (and yourself) to thrive

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5 Corporate Skills That'll Make You An Unstoppable Entrepreneur

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you’ve ever stared at your calendar in another “this-could’ve-been-an-email” meeting wondering if you’re wasting your life, this episode is for you.

Holly shares how her corporate years weren’t a detour. In fact, they were where she received best-in-class training. Her corporate career gave her the exact tools she needed to step into entrepreneurship with confidence.

From navigating chaos, to getting big ideas across the finish line, to building systems that keep you sane — Holly breaks down how the skills you’ve probably already mastered at work. These skills can give you a huge head start in business.

You’ll leave this episode with a fresh appreciation of your 9–5 and a reminder that you’re not starting from scratch — you’re starting from experience.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[02:25] Why Holly’s corporate years were her best-in-class education for entrepreneurship

[04:10] The messy project that taught her how to find clarity in chaos

[08:15] How she learned to turn “just an idea” into reality

[15:35] The hard-earned lessons she’s learned from working with vendors

[18:50] Why building processes isn’t boring — it’s freedom

[21:40] How to start your own business and take your next step

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How To Build A Brand With Big Pic Energy with Kyle Ingebrigston

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you’ve been sitting on a big idea, waiting for the perfect moment, more clarity, or someone to tell you it’s safe to go all in—this episode is for you.

Holly sits down with Profeshie founder Kyle Ingebrigtsen to talk about what it actually looks like to build a brand with big picture energy - literally. Profeshie is a Minneapolis-based photo studio, but not the kind you’re used to. It’s bold, expressive, and intentionally built to feel like something (read: champagne on a Tuesday) the second you walk in.

They dive into the messy middle of business building: the hesitation, the self-doubt, the pressure to play it safe. Kyle shares how he signed the lease before hiring a team, and how he’s scaling a creative business from the ground up - without losing the vibe that made it special in the first place.

This is a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to turn a vision into something real, especially when no one else can see it but you.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[03:17] The idea that sat quietly for 10 years—and finally said “go”

[09:45] Signing the lease with no team, no plan, and no backup

[14:22] Why Profeshie is built to feel like champagne, not LinkedIn

[20:56] The part no one warns you about when you start scaling

[31:10] What corporate taught Kyle and how it almost got in the way

[42:08] The truth every aspiring entrepreneur needs to hear

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5 Permission Slips Every Woman Needs to Build What’s Next

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This one’s for the woman who’s evolving - quickly. If you’ve been feeling the tension between where you’ve been and where you’re going, this episode hands you five permission slips you didn’t even know you needed.

These aren’t fluffy mantra permission slips. They’re grounded reminders that you are allowed to outgrow offers, expectations, business models, and even entire identities. Holly walks you through the exact moments she trusted her gut, held her line, and made calls that weren’t always easy - but were absolutely necessary.

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel anchored in your decisions, clear on what no longer fits, and ready to move forward with your business on your terms.

This is your permission to build what’s next without apology.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[01:09] The question every evolving business owner needs to ask herself

[04:18] Holly's personal story about when she realized it was time to make a leap

[11:02] When a business opportunity feels “off” - and what to do about it

[16:55] The quiet red flag that shows up when your creative work is at risk

[22:52] A bold decision that went against the “rules” of the industry

[29:47] The two-word response that changes everything

[33:03] Your final reminder (and the next best step to take)

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How To Dress for the Woman You Are, Not the Job You Had

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

When you walk away from your corporate 9–5 (and start your biz!), you also get to walk away from the wardrobe that came with it. In this empowering episode, style coach Andie Sobrato joins Holly to talk about the intersection of identity, confidence, and personal style, especially for women transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship.

You’ll hear how dressing from a place of authenticity can make you even more creative, be more confident, and help you show up more powerfully in your business. Spoiler alert: You do not need a new wardrobe—just a fresh perspective on what you already have!

In this episode you’ll learn:

[03:12] Andie shares how women often dress to be taken seriously—and why that needs to shift when you work for yourself.

[06:45] Why we’ve lost the skill of outfit-making and how to rediscover it without spending a dime.

[10:01] The emotional baggage tied to “I’ve already worn that in a photo”—and how to release it.

[14:26] Tips for choosing clothes that reflect your brand and feel like home.

[19:03] How a simple style system can save you time and boost daily confidence.

[22:37] The powerful mindset shift of dressing for yourself, not the audience.

[28:55] Three ways to create “new” outfits from pieces you already love.

[33:40] Final words from Holly and Andie on using style as a daily act of self-leadership.

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https://www.andiesobrato.com/

Should You Go Back To Corporate?

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this deeply honest episode, Holly sits down to talk directly to the woman who’s feeling the weight of entrepreneurship—and wondering if she should go back to corporate. She knows that stuck feeling and the temptation to quit, because she’s been there more times than she can count.

This isn’t about tough love or endless hustle. It’s about finding your truth, hearing your future self’s perspective, and making sure you’re not abandoning yourself just because it’s hard. Holly invites listeners to pause, reflect, and get honest—because whatever you choose next will shape your future in ways you can’t yet see.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[00:00] – Holly opens with a real talk moment about the messiness of being in the middle.
[04:00] – Reconnecting with the real reason you started, and why that matters now more than ever.
[08:00] – Holly shares the honest truth about quitting: what it really means, and how to know if it’s right for you.
[14:00] – A powerful exercise to check in with your future self and what she wants you to hear.
[19:00] – Why consistency—more than perfection—can make all the difference when everything feels uncertain.
[24:00] – Holly’s final, encouraging words to help you see you’re not behind, you’re not failing—you’re just finding your way forward.

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5 Lessons I Learned Starting My Business (that’ll save you time, money, and regret)

Tue, 27 May 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, business coach Holly Knoll shares the five key lessons she had to learn the hard way when starting her business—so listeners don’t have to.

Using her own lessons, Holly walks through the behind-the-scenes decisions, mistakes, and mindset shifts that can make or break a new business. These are the conversations most people aren’t having when they’re talking about entrepreneurship—and exactly what she wishes someone had told her early on.

Whether you’re just starting out or resetting the foundation of your business, this episode will help you lead with more clarity, stronger boundaries, and a whole lot less stress.

In this episode you’ll learn:

What to do when self-doubt shows up—and why it’s normal
The mistake Holly made with taxes, and how to find a CPA who understands your business
Why failure is part of the process, and how to move through it without losing momentum
How to stop explaining your business to people who don’t get it
Why boundaries aren’t optional—they’re essential

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Do You Really Need An LLC?

Tue, 13 May 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Let’s get one thing straight: filing an LLC does not mean you have a business. It means you’ve filled out some paperwork—cute, but not income-generating.

In this solo episode, Holly is breaking down the over-hyped question new entrepreneurs love to stress over:

“Do I need an LLC?”

(Spoiler alert: not if you don’t have a client, an offer, or a plan.)

If you’ve been hiding behind legal forms, color palettes, and Canva instead of solving problems for people, this episode is your loving wake up call. Holly shares her own behind-the-scenes story—from getting fired to building a thriving business—and all the unnecessary distractions she fell for along the way.

You’ll walk away knowing what actually matters when you're getting started (hint: it’s not an LLC), and how to finally build momentum with clients who pay you for what you’re really good at.

In this episode you’ll learn:

Why the LLC question is just fear in a business suit
3 things to nail before you touch legal paperwork
The spiral Holly went through after getting fired—and what finally moved the needle
How one client went from free speaking gigs to getting paid well
The one question that actually builds a business (hint: it’s not about forms)

Last but not least...

START YOUR BUSINESS FOR FREE HERE

The Daily Habit That Will Land You Clients and Keep You Booked

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you're serious about growing your business, there’s one daily move you have to be making — and no, it’s not posting more, tweaking your website, or waiting around hoping the right people "discover" you.

In today’s episode, Holly shares the real client acquisition strategy she uses daily to stay visible, book consulting projects, land coaching clients, and build serious business momentum — even when the market feels slow.

This isn't about working harder.

It’s about working smarter — and stacking simple wins every single day that lead to big breakthroughs over time.

Whether you're trying to land more consulting contracts, book out your services, or finally build a pipeline of dream clients, this system will give you the roadmap you've been missing.

If you're tired of feeling invisible, overwhelmed, or like you're doing "everything right" but still not seeing real results — this episode will flip that script for you.

In this episode you’ll learn:

The biggest reasons entrepreneurs get stuck when trying to grow their business — and how to get unstuck fast
How to break free from "reaction mode" and move into intentional client growth
A simple, repeatable daily system that leads to more clients, better opportunities, and stronger partnerships
Practical, real-world examples you can swipe to start seeing results right away

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FREE: Create a compelling business idea in 6 steps

Why Your Paycheck Is the Smartest Business Investor You’ve Got

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Prices are climbing, but your paycheck? Still acting like it’s 2019.

If you've ever side-eyed your direct deposit and thought, “This can’t be it”—you're not wrong.

In this episode, I break down how to flip that 9–5 paycheck into your best startup investor. That’s right: your job is quietly bankrolling your business, and it doesn’t even know it.

You’ll learn the #1 reason to start a business now (hint: leverage), how to use your job to fund it without the burnout, and why you don’t need to blow up your life to build something better.

So grab your overpriced latte, because we’re turning your paycheck into your power play.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:15 — Let’s Talk About What’s On Everyone’s Mind: Money

Lattes, rent, your dog’s food—everything’s going up. Except your paycheck. Here’s what to do about it.

2:40 — Your Job Isn’t the Problem—Your Dependency On It Is

Why putting all your eggs in one paycheck basket is risky, and what you can build while you’re still employed.

4:12 — Your Job = Your First Business Investor

How to reframe your job as the investor in your consulting business—and use that paycheck to fund your freedom.

6:03 — What Leverage Really Means

It’s not just about money—it’s about control, boundaries, and having the power to choose.

7:12 — How to Get Started (Without Quitting Your Job)

A four-part, practical roadmap to start your consulting business with confidence and clarity.

8:55 — Be the Advil for Your Client’s Pain

Why solving a real pain point is how you build an irresistible consulting offer—and a profitable business.

10:20 — Startup Costs? Let Your Job Cover Them.

Think Canva Pro, Calendly, a CPA, maybe even coaching. Use your job to fund the basics and start strong.

11:08 — Ready to Build? Download Holly’s Business Blueprint

Get the free framework that helps you turn your skills into a service—and land your first client fast. 👉 hollyknoll.com/free

11:50 — No Need to Burn It Down

You don’t have to quit in flames to create something better. Holly shares her “I got fired” story and what she wishes she’d done sooner.

13:20 — Final Pep Talk: Leverage, Thrive, Repeat

You're not just surviving—you’re building. You’re scaling. You’re setting yourself up for whatever’s next.

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How to Build a Business When Planning Isn’t Your Superpower with Maggie Henjum

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Not a planner? Not a problem. In this episode, I talk with Maggie Henjum, Founder of Motion Physical Therapy. Maggie is a wildly successful healthcare entrepreneur who built 10 clinics and a multi-business ecosystem—not by following a step-by-step plan, but by following people, purpose, and gut instinct.

We unpack how to grow when you're not wired for structure, how to scale without burning out, and what it really looks like to build a business that aligns with your life (not the other way around).

Whether you're just starting or ready to expand, this one will shake up everything you thought you had to be to succeed.

We also talk about what most people don’t tell you about building a business: how to know when it’s time to hire, why your zone of genius matters more than being “good at everything,” and how to protect your energy while managing real life—like kids, burnout, and financial pressure.

Whether you’re just getting started or you're scaling something that’s already in motion (pun intended), we'll meet you right where you are. Maggie shares her experience from the healthcare world, and I bring it back to the broader entrepreneurial journey—so no matter what kind of business you're building, you'll walk away with real, no-fluff insight you can use today.

In this episode you’ll learn:

[01:30] Maggie’s shift from traditional healthcare to entrepreneurship

[05:00] Growing to 10 clinics and starting a managed service org

[08:15] How to know when it's time to scale

[11:00] The real reason you need to hire before you're “ready”

[13:45] Our shared “no fluff” policy—and why we both lead that way

[16:30] Building deep relationships in healthcare and beyond

[19:00] Using joy as a business filter—how to know what stays and what goes

[21:50] Succession planning, legacy thinking, and what happens if you’re hit by a bus

[27:30] Maggie's time with Team USA & starting clinics in Park City

[31:15] What’s broken in healthcare—and what Maggie's doing differently

[42:10] For the woman who’s ready to leap but overwhelmed by logistics

[57:45] Building a body (and business) that supports you for the long haul

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The Biggest Mistakes That Keep You from Making Money in Your Business

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Do you ever feel like you're working your tail off in your business, but the money just isn't flowing?

Trust me, I've been there – spinning my wheels, feeling frustrated, and wondering why success seemed just out of reach. In this raw and real episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the EXACT mistakes that kept me stuck for years.

These aren't theoretical tips from a business book – these are battle-tested lessons from my own entrepreneurial journey that will save you years of struggle and thousands of dollars.

Listen in and learn how to stop playing small and start making real money doing what you love, this could be just the wake-up call you need!

In this episode you’ll learn:

[2:07] Mistake #1: Waiting Until You Feel Ready

[5:00] Mistake #2: Giving Away Too Much Time for Free

[10:00] Mistake #3: Hiding Behind Busy Work

[12:50] Mistake #4: Not Having a Clear Offer

[15:00] Recap

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Why Strength (Not Hustle) Leads to Success with Jose Mendoza Figureoa

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, Jose Mendoza Figueroa and I talk about what it really takes to build strength—physically, mentally, and in life and business. We get into the mindset shifts that actually create change, why discipline beats motivation every time, and how consistency is the real secret to success.

Jose shares what he’s learned from training thousands of people, the biggest mistakes people make when trying to hit their goals, and how to push past the excuses that keep people stuck. We also connect the dots between building a strong body and building a business—because the same habits and mindset apply to both.

If you're ready to stop overthinking and start doing, this episode is for you!

In this episode you’ll learn:

[04:30] Jose's journey from Atlanta to Minneapolis

[07:45] How he built a successful personal training career in a new city

[11:20] The importance of consistency and accountability in fitness

[15:40] Overcoming challenges and embracing change

[19:55] The role of therapy in personal and professional growth

[24:10] How to build unshakable self-belief

[28:30] The power of surrounding yourself with the right people

[32:45] Dealing with failure and learning from mistakes

[37:00] The importance of patience and persistence in achieving success

[45:30] Strategies for overcoming ongoing doubt

[53:20] Common workout mistakes

[57:40] Nutrition tips for busy professionals

[1:01:55] Curating social media for personal growth

[1:06:10] Jose's Lavender Magazine feature and its impact

[1:10:25] Our future plans and final thoughts

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Your 6-Step Plan to Start a Business and Land Your First Client

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you’ve been dreaming of starting your own business but feel stuck on where to begin, this episode is for you.

I’m walking you through The Business Blueprint—a six-step roadmap designed to take you from idea to first paying client without the overwhelm.

I’ll share the exact steps I wish I had when I started, plus real, behind-the-scenes stories from my own journey—like the day I got fired, the panic that followed, and the lessons I learned the hard way so you don’t have to.

You’ll learn:

How to turn your skills into a profitable business idea
The biggest mistakes new entrepreneurs make (and how to avoid them)
Simple, actionable steps to start landing clients this week
Why waiting for the “perfect time” is keeping you stuck—and what to do instead

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Grab your free copy of The Business Blueprint and let this episode be your step-by-step guide to finally making your business a reality.

🎧 Listen now + download The Business Blueprint.

How to Make Your Business Unforgettable with Dylan Harrison

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly is joined by a very special guest and friend, Dylan Harrison! Dylan is an active stylist serving the Minneapolis-St. Paul area, specializing in natural, dimensional color. He earned his cosmetology license from Josef's School of Hair Design and has continued his education under renowned artists like Chris Appleton and Lo Wheeler Davis.

Dylan shares when he first started in the beauty industry, how he built up his client list, and what pushed him to leave behind being a salon employee to run his own business. Holly and him also discuss how to scale a business as a "solo-preneur" and what growth looks like as a single employee business.

Throughout the episode you will hear how Dylan moves through his life always leading with authenticity and non-judgement for himself and others. Dylan also shares his own journey with self-confidence and how he strives to instill that confidence into any client that sits in his chair.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces Dylan on the podcast

7:00 Dylan shares how his career track started, and how it quickly changed so he could follow his passions

9:15 How winning hair competitions enabled him to earn additional scholarships and schooling opportunities

11:20 Following your true passion or what IS serving you today and in the future

15:15 Growing your business as a solo-preneur

17:40 The vibe Dylan wants in his salon studio and why

20:00 How to be your authentic self in all areas of your life

22:25 How to end client relationships that are draining your energy

25:50 Working for a salon versus working for yourself

29:10 How Dylan did the math to figure out if he was ready to go into business for himself

31:32 Erin's episode referenced, link here!

36:00 Why you should always be ready to walk away from an opportunity

43:20 Dylan's ideal client

45:15 Dylan shares his hobbies and how they are incorporated into his business and relating to his clients

50:30 What the future growth plans are for Dylan and why he will ALWAYS keep his books open to new clients

52:25 The VERY unique way Dylan originally built his book of business, and how it is still paying dividends today

1:00:40 Why Dylan wants to create a space for clients of all ages and backgrounds to walk out feeling beautiful

1:03:48 Creating authentic, quality content versus quantity content

1:09:05 Finding and strengthening your own confidence and authenticity

1:18:22 Dylan's own self-care and self-talk practices and how he has built his own confidence

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How to Get Paid While Giving Away FREE Content with Lindsey Bomgren

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly sits down with founder and CEO of Nourish Move Love, Lindsey Bomgren! Nourish Move Love is a FREE at-home work out platform that Lindsey started almost ten years ago now. During this conversation Lindsey shares how she turned her love for fitness as a hobby to a full blown career and business.

Lindsey and Holly dive into the details of how Lindsey has scaled her business through Youtube specifically, sharing her love of the art and science that goes behind every video they post. Lindsey also shares why Youtube has become such a strategic part to their business.

Finally, Holly asks Lindsey what her personal philosophies are on fitness in general, women weight lifting, food, creatine, and more! Throughout the conversation Holly shares what her personal fitness journey has been and the impact weight lifting specifically has had on her physical and mental health.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces and welcomes Lindsey to the podcast

2:55 Lindsey shares how her corporate career path and love for fitness paved the way for her to start Nourish Move Love

4:15 Lindsey breaks down her personal fitness journey and how it went from a hobby to a career

8:45 Holly and Lindsey share how motivating sales has been in their lives and the impact it made on them

10:00 How Nourish Move Love got started and how they monetize the business

10:40 Lee Funke's episode referenced!

12:15 How Lindsey built up her business on Youtube

14:00 The art and science behind any successful Youtube business

15:05 Lindsey's advice on how to get started on Youtube

20:55 How Lindsey developed her digital skills to scale her business

24:50 Buy Back Your Time book referenced by Lindsey

26:24 The team behind Nourish Move Love and how they divide roles and responsibilities

29:55 How diving into the analytics of her business became pivotal to the growth and strategy

33:36 Lindsey's role at Nourish Move Love today, and how she has evolved into the CEO and leader of her team

36:05 Partnering with brands vs. brand partners

39:50 Holly shares her fitness journey and interest and Lindsey shares the overarching philosophy she has on fitness

46:05 The rule of thirds; what it is and why it is important!

49:00 Lindsey's philosophy on women weight lifting

58:20 Holly and Lindsey break down food and nutrition and how their relationships with both have evolved

1:01:00 Lindsey breaks down everything you need to know on creatine

1:11:10 Finally, Lindsey shares the meaning behind the name of her business, Nourish Move Love

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The Secret to Building The Life You Want, Starting Now with Michele Henry

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Welcome back to The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast! We are kicking off 2025 with a very special guest, Michele Henry! Michele is the Founder and CEO of Face Foundrie, the world's largest focused facial bar chain. She also has started the Savant Aesthetics Institute to educate and empower students getting into the aesthetics industry.

Michele knew she wanted to be an entrepreneur from an early age as she watched and worked with her dad at his own business, a construction company. Working along with her father as she grew up instilled a deep love of entrepreneurship and she had several small businesses that she started from a young age.

Holly and Michele also dive into the role manifestation has had in both their professional and personal lives, and what their daily practices look like. Michele shares how trusting her gut, the universe, and the process keeps her going, even on the bad days.

Finally, Michele announces the very exciting new business, Laserie, that is coming soon in Edina, MN. She shares how this idea came to fruition and what it has been like working with her husband and fellow co-founder. Laserie will be a luxury med spa experience but at a more affordable price point.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces Michele to the podcast

3:45 Michele shares her entrepreneurial upbringing and background growing up

6:45 How working in a male dominated industry and being the owner's daughter had an impact on her from an early age

9:35 Michele's first major business, PRIMP Boutique in 2010

12:05 How Michele and her business partner grew that business and what Michele attributes to their early success

15:08 When and why she decided to leave PRIMP to start Face Foundrie

19:20 Michele shares how she was able to make the leap to start Face Foundrie and the importance of trusting your gut

22:55 The impact COVID had on Face Foundrie and the silver lining they were able to make out of it

27:30 How to become a Face Foundrie franchisee

31:20 The vision Michele has for Face Foundrie in the next three years

32:24 Why and how she started her own aesthetics school, SAVANT Aesthetics Institute

33:48 Michele shares the VERY exciting new business venture she is starting with her husband, Laserie

41:00 Her experience working with her husband and building this business together

44:04 The role manifesting has had in Michele's life and what that journey has looked like for her

48:50 Michele and Holly discuss how they pair action with their manifestations

51:38 When to cut ties (professionally or personally) and the importance of trusting your gut and the universe

56:00 Michele and Holly share their daily manifestation practices

1:00:25 Michele shares her favorite book to reread (Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill) and her favorite motivational podcasts (Founders Podcast, Acquired, Affirmations to Manifestation Podcast, How I Built This)

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2024 Mash-Up: How 8 Entrepreneurs Turned Ideas Into Income

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Welcome back to The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast! For the last episode of 2024 I decided to do a special mash-up episode of my favorite eight moments this year on the podcast.

These are the moments that resonated, inspired, and hit home with not only me, but our listeners as well. So lets take a listen back to these special eight guests and go into 2025 with the inspiration you need to do something different and for you!

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:30 Holly introduces the mash-up episode

1:58 Episode #39 with Inbal Claudio on how to avoid "spam-y" business connections and finding genuine people to connect with

7:35 Episode #43 with Martha Bitar on the difference between social media and email lists and how they're both more powerful when used together strategically

14:53 Episode #48 with Lee Funke and her advice to any entrepreneurs on the fence out there

16:51 Episode #50 with Megan Tamte on the importance of committing to herself to start every morning alone in quiet time to reflect and brainstorm

28:03 Episode #52 with Jennifer Mackey-Mary on how to scale a service business

38:34 Episode #56 with Erin Zosel on the power and drive that comes from knowing your 'why' behind your business

47:13 Episode #60 Alexis Walsko on the exercise she learned at a recent event that helped shift her perspective back to what she can control and change

52:43 Episode #59 Shayla Owodunni on how to how to take your side hustle to the next level

55:05 Holly's FREE Business Blueprint

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How to Use Your Hardest Moments to Create a Meaningful Business with Alexa Fitzpatrick

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Welcome back to The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast! This week we have a little extra fun with our guest, Alexa Fitzpatrick, owner and creator behind Jayded AF Cocktails. The first half of this episode you can expect a fun and vibrant interview with Alexa on why she created this business and all of the ups and downs she has experienced along the way.

The back half of the episode we try something new, and do an on-air tasting of Alexa's signature cocktails; Lemon Drop, Lavender, and Laxly Cucumber. Our producer Morgan also jumps on mic to join in the tasting fun!

Throughout the interview and tasting you will learn how a personal medical emergency led to a complete shift in every aspect of Alexa's life. With a new perspective on life, she decides instead of rejoining Corporate America, she is going to go into business for herself!

Alexa is a self-proclaimed "open book" and shares everything from her operations to what inspired each of the signature cocktail recipes. Alexa also shares how she feels like she has been divinely guided throughout this entire experience. And when you hear about her experience, it will be difficult to disagree!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces and welcomes Alexa on the podcast

2:58 Alexa shares her career within the healthcare industry and her goal (at the time) to climb the corporate ladder

3:50 The health emergency Alexa experienced that changed her entire life

8:45 How the idea of Jayded AF got started, and what pushed her to bet on herself and go all in on this business idea

12:05 How sending samples to her brother resulted in a run-in with someone Alexa didn't know she needed

19:06 Alexa shares the importance of trusting yourself and the process as she continued to build Jayded AF

21:50 A breakdown of what Jayded AF is as a brand, and the vibe that Alexa was going for for her business and products

25:55 How a marketing photoshoot led to landing a MAJOR commercial client

29:06 The challenge of figuring out a price point on a product with no true comparisons

30:25 Leading your business with authenticity and finding the best partners to bring into your business

38:40 How Alexa runs her back-end / operations side of the business

44:40 Alexa shares what her experience has been like as a black, female entrepreneur in a primarily male dominated industry

50:52 What's next for Jayded AF

54:12 Alexa's shares her best advice to any women out there looking to start their own business

1:02:52 The Jayded AF tasting officially starts, and our producer, Morgan, joins the recording!

1:09:05 Lavender Martini tasting and breakdown of what inspired Alexa to create this signature cocktail

1:13:24 Lemon Drop Martini tasting and breakdown

1:21:08 Alexa gives listeners a sneak peek of the adorable holiday options you can expect from Jayded AF this year

1:25:48 Laxly Cucumber Martini tasting and breakdown

1:41:15 Why Alexa leans on her mentors (despite being in different industries) for advice as she continues to grow her own business

1:52:46 Holly and Morgan provide their final thoughts on each of Alexa's cocktails, and identify which one best represents their own personalities

2:00:32 Finally, Holly and Morgan ask Alexa a handful of rapid fire questions to close out the tasting

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How to Build a Business Your Clients Will Obsess Over with Ingrid Kent and Julie Phaxay

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week on the podcast we welcome Ingrid Kent and Julie Phaxay, co-founders and owners of Haven Beauty Collective here in Minneapolis! Ingrid and Julie share how they each got started in the beauty industry, when they first met, and how they decided to go into business together in 2021.

Julie and Ingrid share their vision for Haven Beauty Collective. A warm, inviting, and comforting space for clients to come and relax while they are pampered. They also share their vision to use their business to educate and advise other women entrepreneurs through providing a space for them to continue to grow their individual businesses.

Although they run HBC together now, Ingrid and Julie have been solo-preneurs for many years within the beauty industry, and with that comes exciting experiences and stories along the way! They both share their favorite celebrity clients they've worked with (psst, one includes a Minneapolis LEGEND) in the past.

Finally, Ingrid and Julie share their advice to any listeners thinking of starting their own business!

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:55 Holly introduces Ingrid Kent and Julie Phaxay on the podcast

3:46 Ingrid shares her backstory of how she started in the beauty industry

8:58 Julie shares her backstory and how she started on the "traditional" college track, and what pushed her to leave it behind and follow her passion in the beauty industry

13:14 Julie breaks down what microblading is and why she is so passionate about it

15:40 How Ingrid and Julie met, and eventually went into business together

20:02 How their optimism helped them push through any COVID concerns as they built their business

21:55 What is Haven Beauty Collective and how Ingrid and Julie divide responsibilities and run the business

23:50 Why they decided to hire independent contractors vs. employees for their business

27:15 Ingrid and Julie share some of their favorite celebrity clients and experiences they have had throughout their careers

36:12 Prince NYT article Holly references

40:47 How Ingrid and Julie built their individual email and waiting lists and how those lists have evolved throughout their careers

43:55 Ingrid and Julie share their opinions on some of today's make up trends and why following every trend isn't the answer

49:05 Both women share their philosophies on the intersection of physical and internal beauty and how they kept that in mind when creating the Haven Beauty Collective space

53:00 The rationale behind naming their business and the process they took to land on Haven Beauty Collective

55:12 What is the future of HBC and the contractors they continue to work with and advise

58:44 Finally, Julie and Ingrid share their advice to any listeners out there who are on the fence of starting their own business

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From Overwhelmed to Energized in One Simple Step with Alexis Walsko

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly welcomes Alexis Walsko, Founder, CEO, and Visionary for Lola Red PR. Alexis has been in business for herself for almost 25 years now, which makes her our most experienced entrepreneur on the podcast to date!

Alexis shares the constant responsibility she feels being a solo-entrepreneur and business owner and how that continues to drive her forward in her work. She has built her business up to have sixteen additional team members that help create full marketing campaigns for their clients across the country.

Holly and Alexis talk through the self-doubt that inevitably creeps into all entrepreneur's minds and how they each work to overcome the self-doubt and continue to move forward. Alexis also shares her best advice for new entrepreneurs, including why you should lean on your support system to be the best cheerleaders for you and your business.

Finally, Alexis gives her best advice for how and to whom to pitch your business to get the best desired outcome and why "bragging" on yourself isn't cringey, but bold!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces Alexis Walsko, Founder and CEO / Visionary at Lola Red PR

2:40 Alexis shares when she started Lola Red as a fresh college graduate in 2000

9:15 Alexis shares she's always had a passion for business and desire to be an entrepreneur, and how her support system and betting on herself helped Lola Red happen

13:20 The main challenge Alexis experiences as being an entrepreneur / solo business owner

21:25 How she faces challenges in her business and not only get through but continue to thrive

22:15 How she continues to overcome her own self-doubt and how her children have helped her see her own blind spots

25:40 The exercise she did at a recent CEO leadership conference that helped shift her perspective back to what she can control and change

30:22 Alexis provides us a breakdown of what PR is today

33:35 The two main types of PR that Alexis and her team help create, including an example of local business, Love Your Melon

38:02 The Guinness World Record Alexis and her team helped one of their clients achieve to promote their 100 year anniversary

42:25 The ideal client profile that Lola Red prefers to partner with in business

45:20 How Alexis and team stay relevant / on trend for their clients' messages to break through the constant noise

49:00 Alexis shares her experience getting clients on The Today Show and her best advice to promote your business

51:05 How to successfully pitch your business to the best audience

1:01:50 The impact AI has already had on PR, and what Alexis thinks the future will look like as it continues to evolve

1:06:35 How AI has created more value for in-person connection

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Lola Red
LinkedIn
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Alexis's Email (alexis@lolared.com)

How to Make Your Side Hustle Your Main Hustle with Shayla Owodunni

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly welcomes Shayla Owodunni, founder and Chief Biophilic Designer at The Plant Penthouse. Shayla walks Holly through her early career path and how her desire to "chase adventure" moved her out West and to the South, before settling back home in Minnesota.

With her background in accounting and corporate compliance, Shayla decided to take a calculated risk by starting The Plant Penthouse as a blog and creative outlet for herself. Shortly after, in the midst of the pandemic, Shayla had a viral "Sofa-Gate" moment that was the ultimate online community builder for her and The Plant Penthouse.

That viral moment led to an HGTV home tour and several other media appearances. Shayla shares how even though she was getting dream opportunities, it was vital that she remembered her own worth, and the cost of an opportunity and knowing your worth.

Finally, Shayla shares the life-changing health scare in her family that inspired her to give back to her own community. What started as a volunteer activity with the Minneapolis Public Schools, has now led Shayla to running for a MPS school board.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces Shayla on the podcast

2:10 Shayla shares her story and her early desire to "chase adventure"

6:40 The hike that changed her life and inspired her to make a huge life change

8:14 The "career palette cleanser" that Shayla needed at that time in her life

13:40 How Shayla figured out what kind of entrepreneurial business she wanted to start

20:02 Shayla starts her consulting business, Corporate Carpentry, and shares how she won her first client

29:10 Plant Penthouse is started as a blog and creative outlet

33:20 SOFA-GATE! Shayla breaks down her viral moment during the pandemic and how it was the ultimate community builder

39:05 The importance of knowing the cost to an opportunity and your own worth

42:35 Shayla's HGTV home tour

44:10 How Shayla sourced her event space for The Plant Penthouse and the dream collaborations that came together

52:45 What Shayla did to take The Plant Penthouse to the next level and truly define the vision for the business and space

1:00:25 What excites Shayla about the near future for The Plant Penthouse (hint, exciting things to come this holiday season!)

1:01:45 Why Shayla decided to implement a CRM tool (HoneyBook) into her business at this point

1:03:05 How a sister trip to Miami ended up inspiring Shayla to volunteer with Minneapolis Public Schools, and eventually decide to run for a school board position

1:07:15 Shayla's advice to anyone considering entrepreneurship

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Why AI Needs Women to Help Pave the Tech Future with Shannon Flanagan

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly welcomes Shannon Flanagan to the podcast! Shannon has been retailing it since college. She’s worked in-stores and as a merchant, consultant, sales leader, and general manager. Today, Shannon has taken the entrepreneurial leap and gone out on her own, creating the advisory firm, Retail Connected. Shannon shares her journey from Corporate America to her own boss and why every step in her journey put her where she is today.

In addition to her advisory firm, Shannon is the founder of Retail Women in Tech. Her goal for this group is to help create the conditions for people to thrive and love what they do everyday. Shannon is a passionate mental health advocate and wanted to create a community that brings women in tech and IT together to grow and support each other in their shared industries.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Miss 'Summer Fridays'?! Find out how to get your Fridays back HERE!

1:30 Shannon is introduced and joins the pod

3:11 Shannon shares what her first job was and how she saw the entrepreneurial spirit from a young age

5:10 How she started her career and how the various positions and companies she worked at influenced what she wanted, and didn't want, out of her next job

10:30 Holly and Shannon both share their experiences working at large predominantly-male led companies, and the typical shortcomings they've experienced in those environments

17:05 Shannon shares staggering statistics on the sexism and discrimination that women experience in today's workplace, read the entire Women @ Work 2024 report by Deloitte here!

20:05 The webinar topic that pushed Shannon to finally follow her entrepreneurial spirit and start her advising firm

24:00 Shannon shares how she landed her first consulting client while still working her full time Corporate America job

30:50 How Shannon defined her advisory firm business and the services she would provide

34:24 Where Retail Connect is today and the ongoing success with their initial client

36:50 Shannon reminds us that your 'job' may not be forever, but your skills and accomplishments are, you can always go back to Corporate America!

40:20 Shannon shares how and why she started Retail Women in Tech, a networking community for women in the retail and AI industries

49:22 Why she did not initially form a board of directors, and instead met with 150+ people, one-on-one, to build the best community she could

55:10 Reminder to color outside the lines and find your own non-negotiables for your work life

58:10 Why women MUST be part of the AI revolution and the true cost to our world if they are not

1:05:10 Finally, Shannon shares with listeners to remember the value of your career looking like a "spider web" instead of just a straight line. Lean in and embrace your passions!

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San Diego Magazine's New Era: Leading with Smart Decisions and Taking Action with Claire Johnson

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Holly welcomes Claire Johnson, CEO and owner of San Diego Magazine, on the podcast! Claire and her husband, Troy, acquired the magazine in 2021 - it has now been in print for 76 years. Originally from New York, Claire graduated from Loyola University with a journalism degree.

Claire shares all the details around why and how her and Troy decided to acquire SDM. As well as her motto of balancing the art and science of life. Claire and Troy signed the paperwork for SDM nine days before Claire had their first baby! The next few months Claire describes as a, "trial by fire" with several unforeseen challenges popping up during that time as well. Claire shares how her and Troy leaned on each other, and their amazing team to get through the transition and come out the other side together.

On top of her CEO responsibilities, Claire also is a co-founder of the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival, a love letter to all things San Diego! She also organizes (with SDM) the Celebrating Women Summit, an event to celebrate and inspire local San Diego women.

Finally, we get the inside scoop from Claire on all her favorite San Diego must-sees and dos for a weekend in town, you will definitely want to have a pen and notebook handy!

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:50 Holly's FREE Business Blueprint!

4:36 Holly introduces Claire to the podcast

6:35 Claire shares her journey leading up to becoming CEO and owner of San Diego Magazine

8:45 How the opportunity to purchase SDM came about for Claire and her husband

11:40 Trial by fire! Claire shares all the details on what the first few months owning and running SDM were like, including several unforeseen challenges

17:55 The life motto Claire follows that led to the decision to purchase and run SDM

21:55 Claire shares the media trend she saw while still at her corporate job that gave her confidence in going all-in with SDM

23:20 Breaking down the financials of purchasing a business like SDM with 70+ years of experience

29:45 All the details of the Del Mar Wine + Food Festival, a love letter to the San Diego community

35:30 Claire shares how SDM has been more than a financial investment, but an emotional one as well for her and her entire family, and their goal to make the SDM "house" a home

38:10 The most important contribution a good mentor can make to any entrepreneur

38:30 Claire breaks down her and Troy's leadership approach as they came into the business as the new owners, and what she feels has been the secret to their success so far

42:05 How Claire became CEO and the division of power and responsibility between her and her husband and partner, Troy

48:22 The similar skillsets that are required to be a successful Chief of Staff or CEO

51:26 The skillset Claire has been honing since childhood as the oldest of six children in her family, and how it has helped her lead and succeed

55:56 The importance of knowing your skillset and when to hire out or delegate tasks

58:05 Claire describes SDM's ideal reader, and it may surprise you!

1:03:06 The impact AI has already had on the media industry and how Claire leverages it within her daily work life

1:08:40 The Celebrating Women Summit that Claire and SDM put on to celebrate local San Diego women

1:13:00 Claire's top recommendations for food, hotel, and entertainment for your next trip to San Diego!

1:18:45 The Best Restaurants in San Diego 2024 by SDM

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The Secret Formula to Building a Multi-Location Business with Erin Zosel

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly sits down with owner and founder of Sloane's Beauty Bar + Med Spa, Erin Zosel. Erin began her career as a hair stylist and when she could not find the salon that had everything she was looking for, she decided to create it for herself!

Erin shares how she went from opening her first salon, to now growing the business to four locations! She also shares the keys to her success, including how to cultivate a culture of openness and fun across all locations.

Then Erin talks process and numbers when it comes to financing her business and each build-out since. Erin breaks down her strategy for funding and provides key advice to fellow entrepreneurs on how to get started themselves!

Finally, Erin shares what the latest hair style trends are today and this fall, along with some amazing product recommendations for anyone going through changes with their hair!

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:56 FREE Business Blueprint!

1:40 Holly introduces Erin Zosel, founder and owner of Sloane's Beauty Bar + Med Spa

3:22 Erin Zosel joins the podcast and introduces herself and business

3:58 Erin shares the high level process of what it looks like to open each of her salon locations

6:38 What additional education and steps were needed to open their new location in North Loop that includes their first Med Spa

9:20 The valuable experience Erin gained while opening her first business, a yoga studio with a friend

12:55 Erin's journey as a hair stylist and renting her own booth

15:05 What Erin was looking for in a hair salon as a place of work, and deciding to create what she wasn't finding for herself

19:20 The process of going from an idea to opening her first location

23:12 Why Erin views her stylists as her actual clients, and how she treats them accordingly

27:00 Cultivating and managing a culture of teamwork and inclusivity across all her locations

29:00 Erin's key to success on keeping the Sloane brand consistent across all locations

32:55 The average timeline to open a new location and why the newest location in North Loop took almost four times as long

34:15 How Erin funds each new location and why that strategy works best for her business

41:50 Erin shares what the latest hairstyle trends are today and why it is so important for a hair stylist to stay up to date to retain clients

46:20 Erin's hair advice (including products she uses!) for people whose hair is going through changes (less moisture, more shedding, etc.)

50:15 The details and process behind the latest expansion, Sloane Beauty Bar + Med Spa endeavor

54:35 The management team Erin has assembled and the 'playbook' they have been able to create together

1:03:02 Erin's advice to anyone looking to start their own business

1:04:33 The importance of making your business about your team and customers and NOT you

1:07:05 How important it is to know your 'why' and Erin shares the 'why' behind her business

1:09:50 Why real world experience is just as valuable as a college degree

1:12:25 How Erin coincidentally named her business after her daughter

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How a "F*ck It" Mentality Can Build a Multi-Million Dollar Business with Larissa Loden

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly sits down with Larissa Loden, founder and CEO of Larissa Loden jewelry! Larissa shares how she has always been around entrepreneurship, but wasn't interested in it herself at first. After teaching art in the Minnesota public schools system for eight years, Larissa decided to finally embrace her entrepreneurial spirit and go all-in on her then side hustle, and now multi-million dollar business, Larissa Loden.

Larissa shares her overall goal for the business, and even teaches Holly the EOS process that her business is structured on. Larissa also shares the revelation she had with her business coach that completely changed her style of leadership moving forward.

Finally, Larissa gives an exciting sneak peak of what to expect from the next two collections at Larissa Loden, as well as where to find the brand soon!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:30 Holly shares the difference between "one day" and "day-one" for an entrepreneur

3:36 FREE Business Blueprint

4:06 Holly introduces Larissa Loden on the podcast

7:44 Larissa's history with entrepreneurship growing up

8:55 The advice given to her that pushed her to finally go all in on her jewelry business, Larissa Loden

10:40 Larissa shares what brought her to Minnesota and her early career

13:00 How dealing with red tape brought out her inner entrepreneurial spirit

17:55 Where her business stood when she decided to commit full time to the business

20:20 The Kolbe test Larissa references her and her team taking

21:32 The design and procurement process for Larissa Loden and how it changed as the business grew

23:55 Larissa shares her overall goal for the business and growth

24:50 How she defines her typical customer and why she believes resonating with Gen X and Millennials is key to her continued success

26:50 Larissa breaks down her motto of "living in the gray" and how she wants her jewelry to help spark conversations with people of all backgrounds

29:00 Heather Boschke episode referenced!

30:30 Why it is so important to get clear on your goals and stay true to them through growth

31:02 The EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Process that Larissa and her business use

32:52 The core values for Larissa Loden

34:10 How Larissa has grown into her leadership position

35:12 The difference of working in the business vs. working on the business

36:14 The best leadership advice Larissa's business coach gave her

41:00 Larissa breaks down the Larissa Loden team's dynamics and structure under the EOS process

44:30 How Larissa and her team approach the interviewing potential new employees

46:15 The Conscious Leadership Group website Larissa references

50:15 How Larissa named her business, and if she was ever concerned naming it after herself

53:02 What it means to Larissa to put the customer and her employees first

58:14 Larissa shares how she is pursing goals outside of her business, and how it ultimately always benefits the business in the long run

1:06:26 What's next for Larissa Loden, exciting details on new collections that are about to drop!! And where to look for the brand next... coming soon, possibly near you!

1:11:35 The two financial books Larissa says are must-reads for entrepreneurs: I Will Teach You to Be Rich by Ramit Sethi and Financial Intelligence by Joe Knight and Karen Berman

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How to Go From People-Pleaser to Powerhouse in Your Business with Paula Orezi

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly virtually sits down with Paula Orezi. Paula is an author, business coach, and speaker as well as the founder of the Paula O! Store! Holly and Paula discuss how Paula surrounds herself with her own accomplishments to stay motivated and keep dreaming for her business and personal life. Paula shares the impact of watching her mom and best friend battle cancer and how that has only motivated her to keep growing and learning herself.

As a recovering "people pleaser" and recipient of the "Most Shy Award" in middle school, Paula shares how she outgrew those traits and found her own path in business and life. Her mantra of "Be the Change Agent" has seeped into every aspect of her life, and she sees the ripple effect it has had not only in her life, but the lives of those around her as well.

Paula also shares the importance of paying attention to yourself; what gives you energy each day and using that as a guide to find your passion and chase it! As she will tell you herself, she's not afraid to try something, and that includes authoring her own poetry book "From Me to You" as well as her own chapter in the co-authored book "Experts & Influencers: The Women's Empowerment Edition."

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:25 Holly shares her "why" behind her own business

2:50 Download Holly's FREE Business Blueprint

3:18 Holly introduces the listener to Paula and recommends you grab a notebook and pen for this one!

4:40 Paula joins the podcast and shares how her and Holly met

9:15 A breakdown of the inspiration and motivation that Paula surrounds herself with in her office

11:00 The importance of daily intentions and openness to opportunities

14:05 Paula shares her "dream post-its" and how she believes you NEVER fully arrive in your business

18:30 The impact on Paula of watching her best friend and mother battle cancer

21:40 How Paula broke free from her "people pleaser" tendencies

24:00 After following the traditional career track, Paula shares what woke her up to pursue her dreams

25:10 How she became a published author for the FIRST time with her poetry book "From Me to You"

29:00 What she learned from her first book signing event

31:20 How she was able to contribute and be a part of the book "Experts & Influencers: Women's Empowerment Edition"

35:40 The importance of writing down your goals and keeping them close until you're ready

45:05 ACTION: Study yourself! Create a daily list of what brings you energy

48:45 Why you need to surround yourself with a nurturing support system

53:15 How Paula defines what "Be a Change Agent" means and how it drives her through every aspect of her life

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How to Reclaim Your Life By Putting Yourself First with Leslie Fhima

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Holly sits down with season one Golden Bachelor contestant, Leslie Fhima! Before Leslie became a household name from the Golden Bachelor, she had and continues to accomplish amazing things in her life.

One theme you will hear from this episode is Leslie's constant drive to work and achieve throughout her entire life. She was a professional figure skater for three years, won a national aerobics championship, and owned her own fitness studio for eight years, Leslie's Shape Shop. She also continues to to be a personal trainer and fitness instructor in the Minneapolis area.

Outside of her professional life, Leslie's family keeps her busy as well. With three children and three grandchildren, she loves being able to spend so much time with her family. She shares with us how important family is to her, and how that impacts all aspects of her life.

Finally, Leslie shares the importance of learning to choose yourself. Why being open to people and the world is so important to her. And why you should always strive to show up as the most genuine version of yourself if you want to surround yourself with people you truly connect with.

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:55 Holly shares how she manifested meeting and getting Leslie on the podcast

3:05 Megan Tamte episode referenced!

5:48 Holly introduces Leslie's bio before welcoming her on the podcast

7:12 Leslie joins the podcast!

8:45 Leslie shares her background as a professional figure skater

10:55 The former Olympic skater who started Leslie's career as a fitness instructor and dance choreographer

11:32 The famous celebrity that Leslie met and took classes from that inspired her to open her own fitness studio, Leslie's Shape Shop in Minneapolis

15:25 Leslie shares her life as a single mom and the daily hustle and grind it took to raise her three children

19:55 Living for her children and consciously putting them first in her life

24:20 Why she wants to be more present with her grandchildren when reflecting on her own kids' childhoods

25:45 What's next for Leslie professionally and personally

27:12 Leslie's Soul 612 retreat in Costa Rica in 2025, sign up before the last few spots are taken!

29:40 Leslie's thought process when deciding to go on The Golden Bachelor and how she was motivated by those who doubted her decision

32:38 What she learned from the show about herself

37:30 How what is important to her in a partner has changed, and what it is today

40:12 The importance of finding your people (professionally and personally) through being your genuine self

46:05 Why Leslie is looking to be more open-minded in her life while still honoring her boundaries

48:55 Leslie's take on the dating apps

49:35 Holly's manifestation course she's taking, Mindvalley

50:15 What releasing "the how" in life means

53:05 Where Holly met Leslie

54:20 Where to find, work with, and connect with Leslie

56:40 Leslie's final words of advice and encouragement for listeners!

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How to Scale Your Business From One to One to a Membership Model with Jennifer Mackey-Mary

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Holly is joined by Jennifer Mackey-Mary in-studio this week to discuss her business, Everyday Style! As a seasoned retail professional, she left corporate life behind when she had her first daughter, and hasn't looked back since! What started as an individual wardrobe consultancy business has grown to a massive online styling membership that includes customers on SIX continents around the world.

Jennifer says she's an open book, and she could not be more correct! She shares some of the toughest lessons learned throughout her 12+ years of business, including her biggest regret and what she would do differently today. She also walks us through how she scaled her service-based business and how she converted her business from in-person workshops to an online membership empire.

The Everyday Style goal is to help women feel comfortable and confident in what they're wearing without breaking the bank or taking too much time in the morning! Every woman can be stylish, no matter her age, shape, size, or life stage, especially with the help from Jennifer and Everyday Style!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:08 Holly shares her insights from 50+ episodes talking with entrepreneurs, as well as her own experience as a business owner

3:40 Holly previews Jennifer Mackey-Mary's background and business before welcoming her on the podcast

4:55 Jennifer Mackey-Mary joins the podcast and shares the purpose behind her business, Everyday Style

7:50 The "f-word" that is NOT allowed in the Everyday Style community, and the "s-word" that is!

9:05 Jennifer jokingly refers to herself as "the idiot who tried" and how that has carried her through starting her business to today

9:40 The start of Jennifer's business as an individual wardrobe stylist to help contribute to her family income while still having the flexibility to take care of her kids

11:15 Spent $100 dollars on a logo and website, it wasn't pretty, BUT it was functional!

12:50 The importance of finding a pain point and solving it for your ideal client

14:40 Jennifer's goal of becoming "5-mile famous"

15:40 How she spent ZERO dollars on marketing her first 3-4 years but still continued to grow her business

16:45 Jennifer shares the biggest mistake she made as an early business owner, and what she learned from that experience

23:50 The importance of trusting your gut for the bad AND the good, it works both ways!

24:55 How to scale a service business

26:15 What is a capsule wardrobe and how that became an integral part of Jennifer's business

28:00 The biggest pivot Jennifer made in her business when she moved from Washington D.C. to Minneapolis, MN

29:24 Rebranding her business and finally creating a professionally made website

31:35 Jennifer's biggest REGRET she has with her business and her advice on how to avoid it

33:50 The major difference between in-person business interactions and virtual-only and how to bring your personality to an online community

34:52 Corrine Crabtree episode mentioned!

35:18 Jennifer's quarterly customer feedback process that is KEY to her success

37:05 Jennifer breaks down why she created a membership-based business and all she has learned after starting one

42:40 Membership business model does NOT equal passive income

45:50 The average email list to membership conversion rate

47:05 Jennifer's biggest lesson learned during COVID, hint: feelings are NOT data!

49:45 How memberships allow you to stop reselling to the same customer, and instead evolve with your ideal customer

51:05 What's next for Jennifer and Everyday Style and her focus to make sure her core business is running smoothly before looking to grow or launch something new

58:11 Fashion sustainability, how Jennifer was impacted by the documentary "Brandy Hellville & the Cult of Fast Fashion" and her advice for not contributing to this problem

64:00 Why clothes are the biggest catalyst for chasing your goals and NOT the reward once you have met your goals

69:20 Jennifer's last advice to make the biggest difference in your current wardrobe and where to get it done!

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How to Monetize Your Corporate Expertise in New Ways with Whitney Bonds

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Whitney Bonds joins the podcast this week as our very first YouTube channel creator! Whitney is the creator of the award-winning website Tried and True Mom Jobs and the YouTube channel bearing her name, boasting over 100K subscribers. Whitney's expertise and knowledge of SEO has been a huge part of her success online, and she shares her best advice with us!

Through her platforms she shares valuable insights and resources on remote work, entrepreneurship, and personal finance. What started as a way to empower herself and fellow moms, has grown to empowering anyone looking to make additional income from home. Helping anyone who finds her channel to find fulfilling careers and achieve financial freedom!

Whitney breaks down what her process is behind each of her videos, where she finds inspiration, and how she keeps her "why" top of mind in order to try and achieve a work / life balance. Finally, she shares her advice for any entrepreneurs out there to find their passion and do something with it.

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:55 Holly introduces Whitney and her background

2:31 Get your day one DONE with the help of The Business Blueprint

4:50 Whitney introduces herself as a wife, mom, and business owner

7:08 Whitney shares how she went from $5K in her first year of business to $200K in her second year

7:31 In 2020 she created her YouTube channel

9:50 Whitney shares how she was able to educate herself on her business for free, and her mindset that business is a long game

13:12 The importance of finding a business coach or mentor to help you see your blind spots

13:40 The most important timeline for your business!

17:15 Whitney shares her process and strategy for her YouTube channel

18:40 What affiliate links are and how they earn you money

22:40 TikTok dropship video link "I Found the Best Remote Job You Can Do At Night in 2024"

26:45 How to title your YouTube video and draw people in

28:10 The importance of constant research and inspiration from others

30:40 Her video creation process and the key elements to a successful video

36:45 Remembering WHY you started your business, the importance of work / life balance as an entrepreneur

40:55 Whitney's best advice for anyone looking to start their own YouTube channel

43:30 Expenses, what are the upfront costs of starting a YouTube channel?

46:35 Whitney's encouragement for all entrepreneurs out there

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From Fitting Room Fail to Fashion Founder: The Evereve Story with Megan Tamte

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Welcome to our 50th episode!! This week we have a VERY special guest to celebrate, Megan Tamte! Megan is the Co-Founder, Co-CEO, and Chief Brand Officer for Evereve. Together with her husband, Mike, they have built what started as a single store in Edina, MN to over 100 stores nationwide!

Megan shares with us how the idea for Evereve first came to her through a horrible dressing room experience she had 26 years ago. She walks us through the seven year process of dreaming and brainstorming before they officially opened their first store in 2004.

We also dive into the culture of Evereve and how Megan intentionally created a culture of HEART (Humility, Empathy, Authenticity, Relationships, and Tenacity) values. She also shares how a VERY special expert helped her take these values and scale them to her growing business, you definitely do not want to miss this pop-out!

Finally, Megan shares what exciting trends we can expect for fall and where to find an Evereve near you to stock up!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Our 50th episode is here!

2:20 FREE Business Blueprint!

3:00 Holly introduces how she knew of Evereve and Megan and how she met her one day in an Evereve store

6:22 A brief breakdown of HEART values before we learn the whole story from Megan herself

7:25 Welcome Megan to the podcast

8:15 Evereve's origin story, Megan's horrible dressing room experience 26 years ago

10:00 Holly's experience shopping at Evereve and how it makes her feel

11:45 Megan's fashion philosophy for Evereve, making fashion warm and approachable for all women

14:05 The importance of talking about your dreams and goals in life with fellow supporters and dreamers

17:20 After 7 years of brainstorming, Megan is feeling unhappy in her professional life and looking to make a change

19:00 Committing to herself to start every morning alone in quiet time to reflect and brainstorm

20:10 How asking herself, "What did you do in 5th grade on the playground for fun?" pointed her back to the idea for Evereve

21:30 Wrestling with the fear and self doubt of going after her dream

22:30 Spending three months writing down her dreams for the business

24:36 Her husband and Co-CEO, Mike Tamte, reviews what she has put together and makes a formal business plan

25:15 The magic $1,500 / day number that had to be met

26:45 Officially opened their flagship store in Edina, MN in 2004 - 7 years after she had the idea

28:30 Megan and Mike's vision since day one for an Evereve brand versus single store

30:40 What they learned after opening their first store and how they had to work outside their natural strengths while they grew the business

33:00 Megan shares how her "Founding Leaders" have and continue to be an integral part of Evereve's culture and success

35:25 Megan breaks down Evereve's HEART values culture and how she intentionally went about scaling the culture along with the business itself

38:30 How the amazing Brené Brown helped Megan better define and refine her HEART values culture

42:35 The importance of accepting help from others

46:00 The one key strategy Megan believes always leads to success

48:45 A day in the life of Megan, how she builds her days and more

53:10 The inspiration she gets from traveling to stores and abroad

54:35 How Evereve handled COVID with the help of their HEART values culture and the ability to work together and quickly pivot

56:15 How Mike's financial transparency with the company builds trust

57:58 Megan breaks down the boards she sits on, how she decides who to work with and how she can provide them value

60:55 How her Warners' Stellian board seat has pushed her outside of her comfort zone and given her empathy for individuals who work for and with her

63:50 Megan shares the exciting trends for fall!

67:00 Where to find Evereve (nationwide) and the amazing subscription service, Trendsend, that curates looks just for you by an actual stylist!

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How to Use an Ancient Tool to Find Your Inner Voice with Karina Muller and Lana Gendlin

Tue, 28 May 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Karina Muller and Lana Gendlin from HeartCentric Divinations join us on the podcast this week to share their exciting mission to bring pendulums to as many people as they can! Karina and Lana share how their careers in consulting and art curating, respectively, led them to where they are today, founding their joint business, HeartCentric Divinations and Coaching.

Together Karina and Lana break down the basics of pendulums; what they are, how they work, and how they can help you listen to yourself for the big and small questions we face in life. Karina and Lana share how pendulums are a tool that we can use to help guide us through decisions and strengthen our ability to trust ourselves.

These women are so passionate about spreading the message of pendulums that they even wrote a book about it! Pendulums & Intuition: Practical Advice for Trusting Your Inner Wisdom, launching June 6th, available for pre-orders on Amazon now!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly briefly introduces the basics of pendulums

1:45 Jill Loftis episode referenced!

6:10 Holly introduces Karina and Lana and shares how they originally met

6:42 Heather Boschke episode referenced!

7:55 Lana shares her background as an art curator and what brought her back to Minnesota

10:05 Karina shares her background in tech and eventually product marketing and consulting

12:00 How Karina and Lana met during COVID and eventually started HeartCentric

13:00 Figuring out their business during the tail end of the pandemic

14:08 Lana explains what "creative wellness" is and why it is so important

15:20 What is a pendulum? Karina and Lana break it down!

18:30 The kinds of questions you can ask your pendulum

20:05 What a pendulum looks like and how to use it

22:15 Holly shares her hands on experience finding her pendulum with Karina and Lana's help

26:40 The importance of listening to your pendulum and not "over-riding" it

29:00 Learning to build trust within yourself through your pendulum

32:45 How to not bias your pendulum and the optimal state of mind to be in

38:36 Pendulums are NOT crystal balls, they are one data point in time

43:00 How Karina and Lana use their pendulums to help organize their schedules as entrepreneurs

44:30 Marrying the data WITH intuition

48:13 Learning to use a pendulum to sharpen your intuition muscle

54:45 Karina and Lana's book: Pendulums & Intuition: Practical Advice for Trusting Your Inner Wisdom, launching June 8th, preorder now!

59:00 What to expect from their book including the history and science of pendulums, how to incorporate pendulums into your life, and how to sharpen your intuition and more!

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The Secret Ingredient That Earned This Entrepreneur Her $1M Business with Lee Funke

Tue, 14 May 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week we have Lee Funke, founder and CEO of Fit Foodie FInds! Lee comes in the podcast studio to share a VERY exciting new business venture for her and her team at Fit Foodie Finds!

Lee also shares why she started Fit Foodie Finds in college, and what inspired her to build the community that is still growing with her today! Throughout our conversation you will quickly notice the key ingredient to Lee's success... listen on to hear for yourself!

Finally, Lee shares advice that she has for other entrepreneurs out there wanting to take the plunge into their own business. As well as how her work / life balance and mental health journey has grown and changed through the years. With the help of her team members she is able to follow her passions and continue to grow her successful, $1M dollar business!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:00 Holly introduces this week's guest, Lee Funke!

5:02 Lee shares when she first started Fit Foodie Finds and why she wanted to create a community in college

8:42 After several side hustles (including Fit Foodie Finds) Lee shares when and why she finally decided to go full time with her business, Fit Foodie Finds

10:20 The importance of team work and collaboration that Lee integrated into the business when it was time to take on team members

11:05 Why an entrepreneur needs to identify areas to outsource and the investment that takes

13:24 How collaboration and team work can help you identify and follow your passions within the business

16:05 Lee's approach to being a CEO and how she fosters an environment of transparency for mutual success

18:00 Rosie's Dill Pickle Martini recipe we referenced!

18:50 Lee announces her next business venture, HodgePodge! A unique food truck collaboration with Forgotten Star Brewery in Fridley, MN!

19:58 A break down of the initial conversations that inspired this new venture and what the process was like as they collaborated to build the menu, infrastructure, and marketing

25:00 The biggest challenges Lee faced when creating this new business and how her and her team overcame them together

31:30 How Lee's relationship with work / life balance has developed through the years

34:50 Gaby Dalkin podcast episode!

35:28 Why Lee and her team feel compelled to use their platform for mental health and women's health issues

37:40 The impact recent Google SEO changes have made on Lee's business

40:26 The time Gwyneth Paltrow made Fit Foodie Find's recipe for Sweet Potato Crust Quiche AND tagged her!

42:28 What's next for Fit Foodie FInds, including taking a deserved break for summer and family time!

43:45 Lee's advice to any entrepreneurs on the fence out there, including her original blog post, A Leap of Faith, when she first decided to make Fit Foodie Finds a full-time career and business

45:05 Lee's husband, Mark Funke's new business Little Ember Co. get saunas delivered to your home today!

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When, Why, and How to Pivot Your Business With Haley Westfall

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week I sit down with Haley Westfall, founder and owner of The West Collective and co-founder of Collab Culture. Haley shares how she started working in corporate America in high school, which led to almost twenty years within the corporate healthcare industry. It wasn't until she was laid off... twice within six months that she knew something had to change.

That was when Haley, through the help of her friends and community, found herself with a social media strategy and content business. One client turned to two, to three, and so on before she was running her own successful business. She was officially her boss and no longer had to worry about getting laid off... until she laid off herself!

Haley realized with the help from her tight-knit women's entrepreneurial community and self-reflection that even though her business was succeeding, she wasn't happy. Instead of feeling defeated, she decided to go back to square one and create a business again, this time with the utmost intention in her purpose and strengths.

In this episode you’ll learn:

2:43 Haley's intro and background

3:45 Haley started her healthcare corporate career in high school, stayed in that industry for 20 years

4:10 Sharing her experience getting laid off from her corporate job

6:14 She quickly found another corporate job, but after six months in she was laid off AGAIN, this time two weeks before Christmas

8:30 Taking the time to process and figure out her next move

15:00 Learning to shed her corporate "polished" image in lieu of an image that is more authentic to her and the business she is creating

19:04 The importance of releasing the "shame" of getting laid off and sharing your story is therapeutic and brings you more credibility as an entrepreneur

21:55 Leaning on entrepreneurial friends and started her business of social media management and strategy for small businesses

23:05 Business is successful, but Haley didn't feel completely fulfilled or aligned

24:45 Her decision to end that business and start over AGAIN, this time with more intention and purpose

27:36 Inbal Claudio episode referenced!

28:08 Connected with three other entrepreneur women and created their own community to build each other up and help with each other's businesses

29:30 Community is NOT just all rainbow and sunshine, it is showing up and holding people accountable to be the best version of themselves

30:30 Learning to shed the corporate habits and behaviors we all learn that no longer serve us as an entrepreneur

31:40 Officially launched her new business, The West Collective, in 2023 with the help of her own community and the self-reflection she had done for herself

32:15 Haley started her own podcast, The Table Podcast

34:30 The impact of creating a business with purpose can have on your entire life, your joy and happiness will radiate for all to see

35:50 Giving yourself the permission to pivot and trusting yourself are keys to success

38:47 Identify your strengths! 70% of individuals are not able to see what their own strengths are in the world

39:12 Asking people around you what they think your strengths are and journaling the feedback to better identify your strengths and how you can find your purpose

43:20 Haley's desire to ditch the mold of networking and create spaces and events where people feel seen and heard

47:19 Link to Haley's FREE monthly community calls that you can join!

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Mindset Mastery: Success Strategies From My Own Business Coach with Lisa LeBlanc

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week I sit down with my personal business coach, Lisa LeBlanc. Lisa is a wife, mother, and grandmother as well as a certified life coach and weight loss specialist with No BS Weightloss. I share how I naturally met Lisa, and how our coaching relationship evolved from personal weight loss to business.

Lisa shares how her entrepreneurship story started when she was a young wife and mom with three kids under five. Out of necessity, Lisa decided to start her own daycare business, but it wasn't long before her own kids were in school and she had a waitlist of parents and kids. After over twenty years in that business, Lisa had reached burnout and was ready for a change.

Lisa began to prioritize herself again and reflect on how she has always been coaching those around her through the years. She decided to invest in herself and get her life coach certification and become part of a coaching team at No BS Weightloss. Throughout this episode you will hear the coaching techniques Lisa uses with clients (and herself) to help them overcome their own negative thoughts. Lisa and I role-play two common scenarios Lisa runs into with new and existing clients, as a glimpse into what a coaching session with her looks like!

In this episode you’ll learn:

2:14 Holly introduces Lisa LeBlanc, her personal business coach

2:58 Corinne Crabtree episode that is referenced in this episode!

5:55 Lisa shares how she started her first business as a daycare provider, out of necessity

6:47 Her old mindset of "If you build it they will come" and how that gave her success, but never gave her the opportunity to celebrate any of that success

7:50 Five years ago Lisa felt burned out from the daycare business she had built and was looking to make a change

8:25 Lisa joins Corinne's No BS Weight Loss program and starts prioritizing herself again

11:25 What led Lisa to pursue her life coach certification and the financial investment that goes into that decision - it was time for her to invest in herself!

14:02 Through coaching and self-reflection, Lisa learns how she is in control of her thoughts

15:50 Her journey to becoming a coach at No BS Weightloss and the extensive interview process she went through

22:50 How to stop getting in your own way and the coaching to help you

24:49 The importance of listening back to your own thoughts and reflecting and editing them

25:30 Mock Coaching Session Example #1 Corporate woman who wants to start her own business but can't quit her job AKA steady income and insurance

29:20 Why you need to look forward in life and NOT backward if you want to make changes in your life

33:07 Lisa shares her approach to getting out of her own head and why it is important to "get quiet" or "get in your body" in order to reflect

36:43 Why Lisa thinks journaling is so important to reflect and filter your thoughts and experiences

44:15 Mock Coaching Session Example #2 A corporate woman who has a horrible boss who does not treat her well or appreciate her work and feels a loss of control over her work environment

48:30 How taking action, any action, reminds you that you are in control

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The Essential Social Media Strategy for New Entrepreneurs with Angel Holmes

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week we sit down with Angel Holmes, the Founder and CEO of Sipindipity, LLC. Sipindipity is your one-stop shop for all social media marketing and branding for small businesses. Holly shares how she and Angel met, and how Angel blew her away with the branding and social media posts that Angel and her team created for her.

Angel shares with us how entrepreneurship is something she knew she wanted to pursue since childhood. As a Charleston, South Carolina native, she has created a community and network for herself that has helped her grow personally and professionally through the years.

We get to hear about Angel's philosophy of "over-deliver", and her goal of helping as many people as she can to find and chase their passions. She shares the importance of social media for a small business today and the most common mistakes business owners make when it comes to their social media strategy. Finally, she shares some best practices on how to create a conversation with your ideal customer via social media.

In this episode you’ll learn:

4:07 How Holly and Angel met, hint... it was through a fellow podcast guest!

7:00 Angel's background and the role her father had in her pursuit of entrepreneurship

10:09 When she lost her business in 2020 due to the pandemic, and how she pivoted and overcame that setback

12:36 Angel shares her deep desire to empower fellow entrepreneurs and the importance of perseverance to succeed

22:30 The importance of time blocking and how it sets Angel up daily for success and the balanced life she wants

28:05 Why social media is an important tool for your business and Angel's best practices for business owners

33:45 How to create a conversation with your audience that fosters a relationship instead of constantly selling

39:12 The MOST common mistake Angel sees business owners make when posting on social media and how to avoid it!

45:45 How offering free products or advice is the best way to authentically and organically grow your business and personal brand

46:36 The importance of sharing the love on socials, you need to engage and support others, especially if they support you

53:26 Angel's "over-deliver" philosophy when it comes to business... and life!

59:00 Sign up for Angel's FREE social media guide and templates

1:03:00 Holly shares her personal experience working with Angel

1:04:36 Angel's PDF bio not only outlines her professional accomplishments but allows you to get to know her as a person too. As she says, "The good, the not great at the time, and the funny"

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Fostering Unity and Progress in Minneapolis with Yusra Mohamud

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week I sit down with Yusra Mohamud live and in person! Yusra shares her story growing up in Minneapolis, how she got her start in community outreach, and what led her to start her own consultancy business, Yuspire Consulting, to help small businesses succeed. Yusra is also a member of the Lake Street Council in Minneapolis and was an integral part of helping with the rebuilding of the community after the events of June 2020.

Yusra's commitment to our community is also shown through her podcast and YouTube channel, Eat & Talk MN. She and her co-founder, Gilbert, wanted to create a space to share local stories from "unsung heroes".

When she isn't helping grow and build her local community, Yusra also loves to travel and spend time with her son. She shares with us her recent experience traveling to Turkey and Saudi Arabia, and why traveling and experiencing the world for yourself is so important.

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:52 Ready to finally take that idea and turn it into a business? Let me help you for FREE!

1:43 Yusra's background and story growing up in South Minneapolis

5:28 Becoming a boy mom and how that impacted her career path

6:00 While working at a bank Yusra gets the opportunity to help with community outreach and join the Lake Street Council as an advisor in 2018

7:52 Pursuing her passion for helping people and her community while leveraging the tools and resources the large bank she worked for had to grow her own skills

9:30 Why Lake Street is a vital cultural corridor to the Twin City community and how it feels like home to Yusra

13:16 Yusra describes her first-hand experience on the ground following the murder of George Floyd in June 2020

15:22 Leaving the corporate world behind to work full time for Lake Street Council following the events of June 2020, where she was able to help the community raise $12 million dollars to rebuild

18:21 Yusra shares her experiences since June of 2020 and how we as a community, nation, and even world have made improvements but also what work still needs to be done

21:43 The importance of putting yourself in different spaces than you normally occupy and why it is GOOD to feel uncomfortable

28:26 Yusra shares her recent experience traveling to Turkey and Saudi Arabia

32:14 Yusra shares what surprised her most about women in Saudi Arabia and why it reinforced the importance of travel and experiencing the world for yourself

37:00 What it was like experiencing Mecca and the thriving community surrounding it

40:33 Eat & Talk podcast and Youtube channel was born in 2020 to highlight the community's "unsung heroes" with the goal of "good conversation feeds starvation"

43:05 The surprising international singer who got her start on Eat & Talk years ago

45:29 Yuspire Consulting and the importance of helping small business owners know their strengths

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The One Marketing Platform Every Business Owner Needs (And it's NOT Social Media!) with Martha Bitar

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 10:15:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Today we chat with Martha Bitar, CEO of Flodesk! Martha got her start in the tech industry in Silicon Valley. It wasn't long before she took the skills she learned from Silicon Valley and put them to work for herself by starting Flodesk. Flodesk is an email design and marketing tech company that helps small businesses build community with their customers through on-brand and beautiful emails. Martha shares what inspired her and her business partner, Rebecca Shostak, to start Flodesk, what it's like to be a disruptor in an established industry, and why an email list is so important to transform the relationship you have with your new and existing customers!

Throughout this episode, you will hear the integrity and love that Martha and her teams pour into their work to ensure their customers have everything they need to be successful. This is especially apparent when Martha shares two unique challenges Flodesk faced and how they overcame them AND gained more trust with their customers in the process.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:48 Holly's experience with being an OG Flodesk customer and how an email list can help you build your business

4:08 Martha shares how she and Holly first met, years ago - connections are everything!

5:48 The importance of feedback from customers, especially at the beginning

7:36 What inspired Martha and Rebecca to start Flodesk, despite the "nay-sayers" they originally encountered

9:30 Martha shares how an email list levels the playing field between small businesses and big companies

12:00 The importance of understanding and connecting with your ideal client

13:50 How being an "outsider" in the industry can bring a fresh perspective and disrupt the existing competitors, no matter how large they are!

15:50 Overcoming their first major company challenge and how it only STRENGTHENED their customer relationships and trust

19:50 The power behind "Made with love in Flodesk," what a product viral loop is, and how it benefits you, your customers, and your future customers

22:53 The difference between scaling hours to dollars and scaling digitally

27:32 Martha shares the amazing feat of being a tech company that has NEVER raised funding from outside investors, and how you can too!

30:48 The importance of listening to your customers for their "pain points" and not their "solutions"

34:42 The recent domain changes Google and Yahoo made and the impact that had on Martha and her team

37:02 Why it is important to look at the full picture when going through business challenges

41:50 The difference between social media and email lists and how they're both more powerful when used together strategically

45:15 How email lists level the playing field between small businesses and their large corporation competitors - email is connection

49:51 Flodesk is expanding their team with two exciting new roles!

51:57 Save 50% on your first year with Flodesk!

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From Fired to Fulfilled: Creating Your Own Version of Success with Heather Boschke

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Today we have a special episode and guest! I am LIVE in the podcast studio with Heather Boschke. Heather is a marketing executive with over twenty years of corporate experience turned entrepreneur with her business, Vogel Venture. She shares how after getting fired twice and laid off once, she finally was ready to take the leap of faith to start her own marketing business. Using her experience with corporate she was able to take the lessons and processes learned and leverage them within her own business and to help her small business clients.

With no longer worrying about fitting the "corporate mold" Heather was even able to find her creative side again and started ANOTHER business, Buddha Birdie. Combining her love of birds and drawing, she was able to create two children's books.

Heather shares with us the importance of talking to people about your ideas / business and letting yourself get quiet enough to listen to your own voice. She shares what are the most important priorities and values in her life and how she lets those guide her to make the best business and personal decisions. In other words, what gives you energy versus what drains you of energy?

Finally Heather shares with us her most important message for listeners, "BET ON YOURSELF!" We are all born with purpose and passions in our lives, and it is our job to find them!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:46 Heather's experience with climbing the ladder in Corporate America and still getting thrown off

3:11 Giving herself a six-month timeline to build her own business

4:00 Letting go of expectations and leaning into the ride

5:21 How being written up for "disobedience" helped her realize that she no longer wants to try and fit the "corporate mold"

10:06 Using Corporate America as a master class in processes, people, and business that you can leverage for your own business and clients

13:12 Defining what Vogel Venture is as a business

18:36 We are more than what we are paid to do, we are multi-passionate individuals

19:20 Normalizing getting fired or laid off, it happens to the best of us!

23:04 The Sunday Truth Gun: Are you looking forward to the next week?

25:25 Enough versus more; how chasing more for more's sake can keep you from your purpose and passions

27:57 Stumbling in your business is ok, and sometimes is what you need to accelerate faster than you ever could

28:38 Forcing versus flow; what gives you energy and what drains you of energy?

32:24 Get quiet and listen to yourself and learn to trust in yourself

37:30 Pushing through negative self-talk; notice the thought, normalize it, and then neutralize it

40:02 The power of writing down your dream and saying it OUT LOUD

42:25 When it feels too good to be true, that means you are in alignment!

43:00 Heather's experience on live television and what helped her prepare for that new experience

45:36 BET ON YOURSELF, we are all born with purpose and it is your job to find and follow it!

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How to Go From Reluctant Employee to Liberated Entrepreneur in Six Easy Steps

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Have you been wanting to start your own business for a while now, but you have no idea where to start or how? Then this is the podcast episode for you! In this episode, I break down my FREE step-by-step guide, the Business Blueprint! Listen along with me as I walk you through each step to get you closer to your goal, starting your own business! As we discuss each of the six steps in the Business Blueprint I provide more context and examples to help guide you and get you started on your journey. Finally, if you still have any questions after listening, I would LOVE for you to reach out to me for help! Below you will find my calendar link to book a 30 minute FREE consultation to help get you started with your own business!

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:38 Download my FREE Business Blueprint guide to follow along in this episode with each step

2:15 Shifting your mindset from 'employee' to 'boss' and what does that look like for you

2:36 Step #1 Create your vision for your ideal workday, environment, and energy

6:28 Step #2 Your strengths, what inspires you, brings you energy, and makes you feel confident?

10:15 Step #3 Define your ideal client, who do you want to work with? Because YOU get to choose!

13:15 Step #4 Your offer, what strengths do you have that you can offer to your ideal client?

16:14 Step #5 Strategy, commit to five activities over the next five days that will immerse you in your industry and around your ideal clients

19:41 Step #6 Plan, once you have your five action item next steps, look at your week and see what could cause you to not complete these items and find ways to work around these obstacles

21:55 Book a consultation with me to discuss any questions or ideas you may want to bounce off someone, I am here to help!

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How to Make a Podcast That Your Listeners Will Love

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this week's episode, we break down everything that goes into the conception, launch, and ongoing production of a podcast. Have you always thought about starting a podcast but immediately feel overwhelmed when it comes to next steps? ME TOO! Listen to hear how I overcame those initial overwhelming emotions, and how you can too!

This episode breaks down the equipment I use and tips to consider when looking for your own, best practices for interviewing guests, and how to conduct authentic interviews that'll be sure to captivate your audience.

I also discuss the details of actually producing your podcast and best practices to keep in mind as you begin your podcast journey!

In this episode you’ll learn:

5:34 Why I decided to launch my podcast back in 2020

8:31 How I defined the goal and audience for my podcast

14:26 How I prepare before an interview while still allowing room for true organic conversation with my guest

21:41 What equipment I use for my podcast and tips on how to pick the best equipment for you

24:35 The importance of a sound editor and how to find one

27:23 "Be like Oprah" or in other words, be present and curious with your guest to create a real conversation for your audience

30:02 How to choose branding without letting it delay you from launching your podcast

32:11 How I named my podcast and the best practices to keep in mind when naming yours

34:32 How to promote your podcast across your platforms and why you owe that to your guest

36:15 The importance of asking your guest to share their episode

38:17 Creating a guest pipeline and ideal guest profile

40:53 The details on how to book guests and prepare them prior to the interview

42:48 The resources I use to produce each podcast (links below)

45:27 How to prepare your guest before an episode goes live

47:17 The importance of learning the production process yourself first

Links Referenced in this Episode:

Schedule a 1:1 with Me!

Microphone

Camera

Captivate (podcast hosting platform)

Canva (podcast artwork)

Rev (AI transcript)

Squarespace (website hosting platform)

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How to Build Your Community Through Genuine Connections with Inbal Claudio

Tue, 09 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this week's episode, I interview Inbal Claudio, a wife and mom of three as well as a three-time entrepreneur. She is originally from Israel and currently resides in southern California. As a candle maker turned tech founder, turned community builder, Inbal's passion for empowering women entrepreneurs has led her to create Like Minded Collective. LMC Is a social media platform for dreamers, creators, and female founders to connect and learn from each other.

The genesis for creating this community started when Inbal was searching for a community herself. She kept being bombarded by business coaches, influencers, and other entrepreneurs all trying to sell their services without getting to know her or her business. That is when Inbal realized she needed to create the community she wanted. One where genuine connections can be made before any true 'business' is discussed or exchanged.

If you are interested in community; how to find it, build it, and organically grow it, Inbal has the insights to help. As an introvert herself, she knows how difficult it can be to make genuine connections with new people. Listen as she breaks down how she makes her events introvert-friendly to ensure everyone feels supported and welcomed from the minute they arrive.

Inbal's mission is to make sure every single female founder (no matter what stage their business is in) knows how incredible they are and they have the support that they need. Throughout this podcast, you will hear how she works towards her mission, and the challenges she has faced and overcome throughout that process.

In this episode you’ll learn:

5:46 Inbal's desire to create community from the start of her working career

6:36 Starting and growing a candle company

9:08 Avoiding spam-y business connections and finding genuine people to connect with

12:25 Creating a space for women entrepreneurs without selling or being sold to

18:06 How to start a community from scratch and grow it organically

22:32 Listening to your community's feedback and making changes in your business

36:44 Overcoming the 'ick' of charging for in-person events, know your worth!

42:21 Accepting help from your community to ensure your live event success

47:30 Making in-person events introvert friendly

48:10 Anatomy of Inbal's events: Networking, brainstorming, and workshopping

50:40 Growing her community through key community member partnerships

1:00:10 Community is a feeling

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The Most Important Business Lessons I Learned in 2023

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Today we take a look back on the lessons and accomplishments of 2023. From restarting my podcast and launching a 'Women in Tech' specific series, to creating a women's networking group in my community. Listen along as I share my experiences, challenges, and thought processes. My biggest lesson learned, motivation is not required to accomplish your goals! I hope you can learn from lessons as you set out to start your business or reach your 2024 dreams.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:05 A review of my lessons and accomplishments in 2023.

2:58 Accomplishment #1 - What I learned from re-launching my podcast on a topic that scared me.

3:58 What often gets in my way when launching new ideas and how I use it to my benefit.

12:42 Accomplishment #2 - Lessons learned from creating the IRL community I wish existed.

19:37 My top lesson learned in 2023 and why you must apply this to your goals!

25:09 The system I use to work efficiently and get more done each day (and how you can apply this system too).

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From $175 to Reshaping Global Minority Entrepreneurship with Nancy Korsah

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this week's episode, I interview Nancy Korsah, founder of Black Business Enterprises and a powerhouse entrepreneur whose life story is a testament to resilience and determination. Nancy walks us through her life's journey, and believe me, the first time I heard it my mouth was agape (and yours probably will be, too!).

Nancy's journey begins with her roots in Italy born to Ghanaian parents. As a teenager, Nancy tells us how she arrived in Los Angeles with just $175 and embarked on her entrepreneurial path by cleaning houses, unaware of the fame of some of her clients, including Ozzy Osborne.

Her worldview expanded during her time as a flight attendant, where she mastered seven languages before settling in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was there that she observed wage disparities for people of color and took action. This led her to found Black Business Enterprises (BBE) in 2015, dedicated to empowering minority entrepreneurs globally by providing vital resources such as financial literacy, mentorship, and access to capital.

With a membership of over 72,000 in 32 countries, Nancy's mission with BBE is to impact a million lives through rigorous financial training and aims to raise $4 million for larger grants. Beyond BBE, Nancy is involved in multiple ventures, including owning a home care agency, conducting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) training, mentoring entrepreneurs, and hosting popular podcasts and events like the Black Business Enterprises podcast and the Black Business Ball.

Join me as we delve into Nancy's remarkable journey, her unwavering dedication to empowering others, and her vision for a more equitable entrepreneurial landscape.

In this episode you’ll learn:

4:55 Being the only African family in Nancy's hometown

9:19 How food makes culture and Nancy's favorite African dish

12:10 Nancy's first impressions of the United States

15:44 Homeless in LA: Nancy's first business and $1M

23:05 From business owner to international flight attendant

23:08 International parties: Nancy's second business

32:51 From flight attendant to banking

35:39 The catalyst to why Nancy started Black Business Enterprises (BBE)

39:27 Nancy's favorite BBE success story

44:22 How Black businesses are severely underestimated

47:59 What Nancy created that she'd always wish existed

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How To Build A Community Of Raving Fans with Gaby Dalkin

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week I interview Gaby Dalkin, a trained chef, recipe developer, entrepreneur, and New York Times best-seller food/lifestyle writer. I had the pleasure of meeting Gaby in Mexico on one of her food adventures organized just for her community! I've loved getting to know Gaby, her business, and the people she brings together. It was on that Mexico trip that I knew she MUST be on the podcast, so you can get to know her, too.

Gaby recently launched her latest venture, Dalkin and Co., and shares her journey on how she's grown her company and created a community of raving fans, including the super simple formula she applies to her business - daily. We also talk about Gaby's favorite pinch-me moments and her plans for the future, including a new book and expanding the Dalkin and Co. product line.

Gaby has built her entire empire from the ground up, so if you're looking for a dose of inspiration and to see what's possible when it comes to starting or scaling YOUR own business, you'll love this episode!

In this episode you’ll learn:

4:53 How Gaby went from PR to culinary school
5:53 Working as a private chef
8:28 Taking What's Gaby Cooking full-time
11:08 How Gaby built What's Gaby Cooking
14:13 The approach that changed EVERYTHING with What's Gaby Cooking
17:08 Gaby's method to building a loyal community
20:19 Gaby's motto for living life and how she embodies it
23:42 Gaby's favorite "pinch me" moments
25:54 What fills Gaby's cup
28:54 How Gaby launched her new product line, Dalkin & Co.
30:29 Advice for starting something new (even when you're scared)
34:16 What's on Gaby's Friendsgiving table
36:30 The key to in-person event success

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How To Use The Power Of Your Mind To Achieve Business Success with Jill Loftis

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, I dive into the captivating world of astrology and entrepreneurship with former yoga studio owner and astrologer, Jill Lofits.

Jill's journey unfolds as she shares her initial lessons from owning a business, the unique challenges she faced as a woman business owner in the South, and her decision to sell her yoga studio. We learn about Jill's evolving definition of success and why traditional business plans may not always be the answer to launching a successful business.

Jill's transition into astrology is a pivotal moment in the episode, as she discusses the unexpected shift in her career and the possibilities it offers as a business model. She takes us deep into the world of astrology, explaining the essence of astrology charts and how astrology can serve as a guiding tool in life's complex decisions.

We also explore how to harness the power of the universe and astrology for launching a business or making big decisions. We end the episode discussing why women must build and find a supportive community and the importance this type of solidarity plays in the entrepreneurial journey.

In this episode you’ll learn:

06:41 - The first thing Jill learned about owning a business.
10:58 - Jill reflects on her experiences as a woman business owner in the South and the unique challenges she faced.
17:30 - Jill's journey takes an unexpected turn as she sells her yoga studio and her definition of business success evolves.
18:57 - The importance of ditching textbook business plans and trying alternative approaches.
23:50 - How Jill pivoted from owning a yoga studio to a new venture in astrology.
27:42 - Astrology as a viable business model – exploring its potential and unique challenges.
34:36 - The essence of an astrology chart and what can reveal.
41:23 - How astrology can serve as a guide to navigate life's complexities and decisions.
44:01 - Harnessing the power of the universe and astrology to start a business or take a significant leap.
49:43 - Discover when the stars align for launching a new business venture according to astrology.
53:07 - On building a supportive community of women, highlighting the importance of solidarity in business.

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Brewing Success: From Honduras to the Twin Cities' First Latina-Owned Coffee Shop with Ofelia Ponce

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, Ofelia Ponce, owner of Abogados Cafe, shares her journey from Honduras to Minnesota and how she launched the first Latina-owned coffee shop in the Twin Cities. Ofelia's journey is a testament to determination, perseverance, and the pursuit of her passion for coffee and hospitality.

Ofelia shares her unique perspective on being an introvert in a highly social industry, her unwavering dedication to her dream in the face of challenges, and her commitment to her core values, which includes partnering with women-owned in unexpected parts of her business.

In this episode you’ll learn:

4:05 How Abogados Cafe got its name

5:30 How Ofelia met her husband and business partner

8:51 What made Ofelia decide to open a coffee shop

11:37 On being an introvert in an extroverted industry

16:44 What makes Abogados Cafe truly unique

19:05 What it means to be the first Latina-owned coffee shop in the Twin Cities

23:22 What keeps Ofelia going and determined to succeed

28:41 Sourcing coffee grown by women

36:05 Ofelia's biggest lessons

41:59 On hiring and building a company culture

51:34 Building creativity into the coffee brand + what's next for Abogados Cafe

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Embracing the Unknown: Melissa Wong's Journey from Employee to Unforeseen Tech Success

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 10:30:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In today's episode, I interview Melissa Wong, co-founder and CEO of Zipline, a leading retail communication and store execution software that supports 80 of the world's most iconic brands.

Melissa is a remarkable entrepreneur who dared to embrace the unknown and transform her life from a corporate employee to a visionary leader in the tech industry. She is also the author of the book, "Stores Don't Suck," which focuses on helping stores achieve their highest success.

Melissa's story is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering belief in the power of possibility.

In this episode you’ll learn:

3:38 The retail problem Melissa decided to solve

8:30 How Melissa met her co-founder

13:53 Melissa's mission

15:54 How Melissa decided to leave Gap and start her own thing

19:17 Being part of an accelerator

21:47 How Melissa produces the most important conversations

23:57 On being a woman of color in Tech

29:28 On managing self-doubt

31:36 Managing a major setback in life

35:50 The importance of taking just one step at a time

39:44 When doors open

47:10 Melissa's book and on being an author

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The Visibility Challenge: How To Overcome A Career Plateau with Kimberly Minor

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, I chat with Kimberly Minor, the CEO of Bumbershoot Group, which provides interim C-suite leadership and leadership development, process creation and improvement, and cultural transformation.

Together, we explore vital topics such as career plateaus and making yourself visible in the workplace. We dive deeper into the significance of sponsorship and the intersectionality of race and gender, emphasizing why leaders must be conscious of this intersection as they promote and build their teams.

Kimberly shares actionable steps on how individuals can make themselves seen in the workplace, why sponsors (not mentors!) are critical for success, and how to land high-visibility leadership roles.

Kimberly also provides her insights into the concept of intersectionality, where race and gender overlap, how this impacts individuals' experiences in the workplace, and why leaders must pay attention to intersectionality when building teams and promoting their people.

In this episode you’ll learn:

3:48 Kimberly's background

6:27 Why Kimberly started Women of Color Retail Alliance

12:40 On gender parity and lifting ALL women

15:01 Asking for what you want and conquering fear

25:27 How to harness your power to get what you want in life

30:20 How to make yourself truly seen by others

36:28 Why we should stop looking for mentors and look for sponsors

40:41 How to attract a sponsor

45:35 On being a businesswoman vs. a DEI representative

50:37 Why diversity should be a given

52:00 The intersection of gender parity and race

55:50 What happens when leaders don't consider race and gender when grooming leaders

59:17 A call for conscious leadership

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kimberly@bumbershoot.net
Women of Color Retail Alliance
LinkedIn

Women in Tech: From Tragedy to Triumph - Ramitha Meloor's Path To Leadership

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 06:30:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, I had the honor of sitting down with a truly remarkable woman, Ramitha Meloor. Ramitha's inspiring journey from a near-fatal bus accident to becoming a top leader in the retail technology space is nothing short of extraordinary.

Ramitha opens up about her accident that shook her life to its core. She shares the challenges she faced during her recovery process, both physical and emotional. While this accident could have easily derailed her dreams and ambitions, her journey of survival against all odds is a powerful reminder that the human will can overcome even the darkest of moments.

This episode is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the incredible heights that can be reached through determination and perseverance. Ramitha Meloor's story will leave you inspired, motivated, and believing that no matter the odds, you can rise above adversity to achieve greatness!

In this episode you’ll learn:

4:26 Ramitha's Intro

8:36 On being an (almost) solo parent

13:04 Ramitha's life-changing moment: the accident

23:13 How Ramitha managed her mindset while being on bed rest

25:00 How Ramitha learned to walk again

32:08 Ramitha's workout routine today

35:10 The importance of self-advocating & seizing opportunities

44:27 Suggestions for male leaders

49:16 Why disappointing people is a good thing

52:14 Being a mother and a leader

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Ramitha Meloor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramitham

Mastering Self-Talk: How To Transform Negative Thoughts into Positive Outcomes with Corinne Crabtree

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this week's episode, I interview Corinne Crabtree, a master-certified weight and life coach with a mission to help every woman break down generational curses in order to improve their personal health. Corinne herself lost one hundred pounds 15 years ago and has dedicated her life to teaching women how to do the same.

With over 50 million downloads of her podcast (Losing 100 Pounds with Corinne), Corinne's one of the leading voices in the weight loss and online business industry. I personally have been part of her weight loss program for the past 2 years and my success (27 pounds down and counting) is a testament to her coaching, she's the REAL DEAL!

This episode isn't geared just toward weight loss. In fact, what Corinne teaches can be applied to ALL areas of life, specifically business, and careers. Corinne and I dive deep into the profound impact that our thoughts have on our lives. She emphasizes that our thoughts shape our beliefs, emotions, and actions, ultimately influencing the outcomes we experience. By consciously redirecting our thoughts towards more empowering and positive narratives, we can unlock the doors to a more fulfilling life.

Drawing from her own personal experiences, Corinne shares my FAVORITE actionable technique for transforming your mindset to achieve the results you want. She discusses the power of self-awareness and will encourage you to identify and challenge negative thought patterns that may be holding you back.

Corinne and I address the role of self-doubt, fear of failure, and the influence of external factors, providing valuable insights on how to navigate these challenges with resilience and determination.

You no doubt will be inspired by Corinne's authentic and relatable storytelling as she shares anecdotes of her own transformational journey and the profound impact it had on her life. Her wisdom and expertise will empower you to take control of your thoughts, break free from self-imposed limitations, and embrace a new mindset that paves the way for personal growth and transformation.

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode as we uncover how to change your life by changing the way you think, with the remarkable Corinne Crabtree as our guide.

In this episode you’ll learn:

6:53 Corinne's story

10:02 How Corinne started her business

13:20 Strategy for building confidence & dealing with rejection

21:15 THE tool that will help you change your thoughts

32:07 Why being in the "gray" is a healthy place to be

33:44 Other people's opinions

38:43 Women in Tech: why it's important to go first & stopping the male-dominated workforce cycles

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Women In Tech: Demystifying Venture Capital - How Women VC Founders are Changing the Game with Morgan Evans

Wed, 03 May 2023 07:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, I interview Morgan Evans, who not only has founded successful tech businesses but also runs her own venture capital fund focused on investing in medical technology startups.

Together Morgan and I demystify the world of venture capital - what it is, how it works, and how to pitch a VC firm. And most importantly, we unpack the impact women are making in the VC world and the importance of financially backing women-led businesses.

About Morgan: Morgan Evans is a serial med-tech entrepreneur and investor with a passion for helping to catapult new ideas. She has founded or co-founded multiple companies which includes: Agitated Solutions (where she is CEO); a med tech consultancy, Avio MedTech Consulting; an incubator, Moonshot Medical; and a venture investing firm, Engage Venture Partners (where she is a Principal). Morgan has a degree in biomechanical engineering from Stanford University, an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, and earned her early career experience with two great medical device companies — Autonomic Technologies and Medtronic — before jumping fully into the world of startups.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:06 Who is Morgan Evans?

5:42 How Morgan started multiple successful businesses

15:35 Venture capital: what it is + how it works

20:50 What happens when VC deals fail

22:59 How Morgan learned how to be a venture capitalist

24:48 Things venture capitalists look for in startups

32:24 On Silicon Valley Bank

36:02 How to get involved with venture capital

39:05 Boys club statistics

40:54 How to build a pipeline of women in tech

48:15 How to invest in women in tech

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Women in Tech: (She Did It!) Two Co-Founding Entrepreneurs From Start to Sale with Bernardine Wu and Cynthia Kounaris

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, you'll hear the inspiring story of two women in tech who successfully sold their startup. Introducing Bernardine Wu and Cynthia Kounaris, lifelong friends and business partners, who met on Wall Street many years ago and later became co-founders of a retail technology consulting company.

Bernardine and Cynthia discuss how they arrived at the idea for their company and how they worked tirelessly to turn their vision into a reality. They also share the challenges they faced in the early days of the business and the process they followed to ultimately sell their company.

You'll learn how Bernardine & Cynthia's core leadership values set them apart from their competition, and why race and gender representation matters when it comes to business.

Overall, this episode offers an inspiring look at the journey of two women leaders who overcame obstacles despite the odds and achieved their dreams of building and selling a successful company.

In this episode you’ll learn:

3:56 How Bernardine & Cynthia met working on Wall Street

14:07 Bernardine & Cynthia's core leadership styles and values

18:02 Why they started a retail consulting company

22:35 Going from an idea to an actual business

25:07 Mistakes made & lessons learned

27:06 The importance of a business partner

32:36 The best part of having a business

37:00 On competing with the big consulting companies

42:10 How they decided to sell the company

45:27 The process to sell the company

47:46 What's changed being part of a larger company

53:03 Final entrepreneurial lessons learned

54:49 What owning a business has cost Bernardine & Cynthia

1:00:02 Why women first entered eCommerce

1:04:29 What allyship & representation means in the workplace

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Women in Tech: How Women Are Redefining Leadership with Swathi Reddy

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this podcast episode, Swathi Reddy and I explore how women are redefining leadership and challenging traditional notions of what it means to lead in the workplace.

We also uncover the unique qualities and approaches women bring to their roles such as collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity. All of which create a more supportive and team-oriented workplace culture.

Overall, this episode highlights the importance of diverse perspectives and approaches in leadership, and how women in tech play a vital role in redefining what it means to lead.

In this episode you’ll learn:

2:27 Swathi's background + career journey

6:22 Swathi's day to day

12:01 What to look for when transitioning to a new company and/or role

19:32 Benefits of working on a diverse team

25:08 The importance of empathetic leaders

26:01 Why we need more women leaders

29:58 What happens at companies that lack diversity

34:41 How support structures provide opportunities

37:07 Why women feel they have to beyond to prove themselves

40:49 Showing up with confidence

49:56 Swathi's biggest lessons learned

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Swathi Reddy on LinkedIn

Women In Tech: How To Ace Your Next Tech Interview

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

After interviewing hundreds of people throughout my career, most people miss doing this ONE thing, which ultimately does not land them the job or the next interview. Today I am sharing how you can avoid this mistake by using a new interview technique that will make you memorable and help you land your dream job!

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:48 Ridiculous interview questions and how to respond

9:41 Illegal interview questions and how to respond

12:37 Must do interview prep step often overlooked

15:13 THE framework to make your answers stand out

21:54 How to pick your best career examples

25:42 How to end on the best note possible

31:29 Download Your FREE Interview Organizer

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Women In Tech: How To Intentionally Balance A Career and Parenting with Catherine St. Clair

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 13:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this episode, I interview Catherine St. Clair, Head of Product Marketing at Hims & Hers. Catherine shares her career journey from Big 5 consulting to Product Marketing and I think you'll love Catherine's perspective on how she's approached integrating motherhood and her career with serious intention.

Catherine Keller is a product marketing leader with more than 20 years of experience in the tech industry. Currently, she leads the Product Marketing team at Hims & Hers, a telehealth platform that provides access to treatment for mental health, sexual health, anti-aging, and more.

Previously, she built and led product marketing teams at Afterpay, Yelp, and Trulia. Catherine has deep expertise in marketplace dynamics and is known for building collaborative, high-impact teams. She is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Emory University and currently lives just outside of San Francisco with her husband, two children, and senior rescue dog.

In this episode you’ll learn:

2:40 Catherine's career path

5:29 Why Catherine chose Product Marketing

9:23 The two pivotal points in Catherine's career

13:00 Imposter syndrome and to move through it

15:15 How to be your own hype woman

18:49 On being a mother and having a family

27:43 When to dial up or dial down your career

32:24 Why Catherine stays in Tech

37:01 The future for women in Tech

39:50 Paving the way for women decision makers & leaders

Chat With Me + Free Business Building Tools:

Connect with my guest:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinekeller/

Women In Tech: 4 Things You NEVER Have To Do At Work Again (and what to do instead!)

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

There are a few things I wish I would've stopped doing at work much earlier in my career. In this week's episode I am covering 4 things women no longer need to do in the workplace... and 4 things we ought to be doing instead! From assuming antiquated roles and responsibilities to trying to fit in, I go deep into common mistakes I see women in tech make over and over, and 4 simple tools to implement TODAY to start feeling better at work and achieve the results you want.

In this episode you’ll learn:

1:45 The first thing you no longer need to do

4:15 The second thing you no longer need to do

8:22 The third thing you no longer need to do

10:59 The fourth thing you no longer need to do

15:07 The 4 tools to achieve massive results

25:22 Key takeaways and next steps

Chat With Me + Download Free Business Building Tools:

Women In Tech: How To Get to the Next (C-Suite) Level with Meera Bhatia

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 12:30:00 -0600

Episode Summary

Do you feel stuck on how to get to the next level in your organization? Do you have your sights set on that next leadership position, but how to get there remains a mystery? On today's episode, I interview Meera Bhatia, President of TechStyle OS and COO of Fabletics. Meera and I de-mystify the steps to rise to that next leadership level. Meera and I also unpack the characteristics of great leaders who inspire their people and build best-in-class teams.

In this episode you’ll learn:

4:23 Meera's career path

6:00 Moving to London

9:58 The impact of sports on Meera's career

13:52 Deciding on a career in tech

20:48 How to interview your potential future boss

23:43 How to get to the next (C suite) level

34:08 Meera's role

37:16 How Meera built her career herself

39:41 How to make your ideal career happen

44:13 How to get into tech if you don't work in tech

Chat With Me + Free Business Building Tools:

Connect with my guest:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/meerabhatia/

Women In Tech: How To Reinvigorate Your Network in a Remote and Hybrid World

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you're working remotely or even in a hybrid model, chances are you don't see nearly as many of your colleagues as you used to. In fact perhaps the majority of your network you see via a screen... if at all.

Today I'm offering you 4 different ways to reinvigorate your network both at work and beyond so that when you need to call in a favor, ask for help, or participate in something new, it won't involve randomly reaching out to someone you haven't spoken to in 10 years. Instead, you'll have a group of awesome people who are already there to support you!

In this episode you’ll learn:

2:58 Why having a network is important... especially now

4:45 How to network when starting a new job 100% remote

7:34 Networking idea #1

9:46 Networking idea #2

14:50 Networking idea #3

15:30 Networking idea #4

20:00 How to create a system to make networking efficient

Chat With Me + Free Business Building Tools:

Women In Tech: How To Build Confidence And Accelerate Your Career with Caren Williams

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week Caren Williams is back on the pod! Caren is a Brand & Marketing Strategist and a two-time guest on the show. In this episode, we’re talking about bringing your whole self to work, and why as women, this is essential to the success of our careers.

Caren shares her personal journey of how she discovered the power of bringing her whole self to work, the pitfalls of not doing so, and how being your own ally builds confidence beyond measure.

In this episode you’ll learn:

2:39 - Where is Caren now + life post-pandemic

5:51 - What is tech-adjacent marketing?

9:10 - Bridging the gap between marketing and tech

9:55 - How to pitch yourself as technical (even if you’re not)

14:49 - Caren’s first tech project

21:17 - Where women often hold back in tech

22:55 - How to build confidence in your craft

31:08 - The essential mindset for non-techy people

40:13 - How to bring your whole self to work + why this matters

Chat With Me + Free Business Building Tools:

Connect with my guest:

Website – www.caren-williams.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carenwilliams/

Women In Tech: Why We Are STILL Talking About This

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 06:00:00 -0600

Welcome to season 2 of The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast! In this episode, I'm kicking off a brand new season focused on Women In Tech.

This season you'll meet women in tech who are employees and business owners alike. These women have carved out their own career niches and have taken the bull by the horns to persevere and pursue their missions despite the odds.

If you don't work in tech, no worries. This season is for women across ALL career genres who may feel stuck, frustrated, or simply searching for a community of like-minded female powerhouses.

I am so ready for you to listen to the stories of these women and have no doubt that this season is going to be quite an adventure.

Chat With Me + Free Business Building Tools:

How To Ask For Anything You Want (and get it!) with Brook McCarthy

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 01:00:00 -0600

This week I'm honored to have Brook McCarthy, Business Coach, and Digital Marketing Trainer, on the show. Brook works with business owners to help them magnify their impact and grow their professional reputations.

Join Brook and me as we chat all about the importance of actually asking for what you want - a key step when it comes to making changes in our lives and creating more of what we want. Brook also gives a simple strategy to really go for it and ask for what you want… and get it!

There is a lot of misconception surrounding confidence – confidence is a feeling but it is also an action.
If you act confident, the feelings you are hoping for will follow those actions.
You cannot afford to have a negative thought if you are self-employed.
Your brain is so powerful and tells so many stories, which are often untrue!
Instead of just trusting your feelings and listening to your thoughts, you have to act.
We have to get to a place of pain before we make a brave decision.
If you’re too comfortable and everything is too easy, you will be more reluctant to change.
It is so important to set your boundaries – move away from the things that are overwhelming you and causing pain.
As a consultant, it can be difficult to have a set fee – try to create packages and clearly defined services with clearly defined terms and conditions.
If you feel like an imposter and your confidence is lacking, put your price on your website and think thoroughly about your terms and conditions.
Have boundaries and a clear process so people know exactly what the path is.
If you don’t back yourself, who is going to back you?
You cannot accrue experience waiting for someone to tap you on the shoulder – you have to pitch and be direct.
Don’t wait for the phone to ring – go out there and get it!
As business owners, it is up to us to define what we want and we get the freedom to say no.
Introducing yourself to strangers is so important, especially as we get older.
Women are judged very harshly, so it is no wonder we all feel subconscious sometimes!
The only way to get over the fear of pitching is to just DO IT! The worst outcome is that you will be ignored.
Keep your pitch short – 1, 2, or 3 sentences.
Be genuine, authentic, real, and ask questions about them.
Keep practicing your pitch – act confident until you feel it.
Think about the one thing you want to ask for today and go and ask!
You will never know until you ask.

Remember

Rather than waiting to be confident to show up, keep showing up until you are confident!

You Don’t Want to Miss…

01:50 – A little bit about Brook

05:48 – Brook’s business journey

13:52 – Finding the confidence to just go for it

18:08 – The reality behind being a business owner

23:08 – Reclaiming your time in business

26:30 – Overcoming imposter syndrome

37:30 – The framework for pitching yourself

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Create your compelling business idea in 6 steps with my Free Business Action Guide

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Find Brook At…

Website – www.hustleandheart.com.au

Freebie – www.hustleandheart.com.au/pitch

What The P-Word And Managing Stress Have In Common with Muse Lokajickova

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

This week I’m chatting with Muse Lokajickova, a licensed acupuncturist and a bodyworker who helps women find ease, health, and power in their pelvis cycles so they can live to their full capacity. You may be wondering, how do pelvis cycles and women’s health fit into a business podcast? The answer may surprise you! You won’t want to miss this episode - Muse shares her unique business journey and gifts us with 3 simple steps (yes, for you, too, my male listeners!) to calm our precious nervous systems when we’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed.

Episode Takeaways:

What does it mean to be in our body? Free and having full agency. Our life force is present in all of us.
It’s difficult to process emotion in the moment, thus all too often we disconnect from it.
Step #1 - if you are feeling stressed or emotional is to ground yourself, literally imagining yourself being connected to the ground with your life force.
Step #2 - be aware – in order to be aware of your internal states, we need to keep deciding over and again that it is okay to go through things that are hard.
We have to be okay with not always feeling awesome.
Every person’s body has a distinct way of communicating when something’s not at all right.
When you feel that something is not quite right, you’ll notice that something is contracted. Just exhale.
Grounding ourselves is a way to connect to our true selves and be in the moment.
Instruction lives in our DNA – we can’t access it if we are stress balls and cutting ourselves off.
Step #3 - when you are overwhelmed with emotion - get out in nature and plug in your nervous system to the greater network of nature.
If we can connect with nature, our body and nervous system can be reminded there is always hope, there is always the seed of hope in every leaf, in every twig, in every seed in the soil, it’s all around us.
Bonus Step - celebrate the fact you caught yourself being stressed out. If you caught yourself in that moment once every day, that’s going to add up and make a huge difference.
We don’t always have to be living in the start of zen – it’s not possible.
Every time we notice our body and decide we are going to let go of our breath, it builds resilience. It is medicine we can make for ourselves that amplifies itself.
In closing, it is really important we guard our personal time before we go to sleep and when we wake up in the morning - we need unplugging time – no tech and consuming media. Just be still.

Remember...

When you feel overwhelmed with emotion or feel stressed, help is on the way. The first thing to do is calm your nervous system. You can do this by grounding yourself and connecting with your true self, being aware of the emotion you are feeling, and getting out in nature plugging in your nervous system to the greater network of nature.

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:01 – A little bit about Muse

05:25 – Muse’s journey to entrepreneurship

22:20 – Being guided by your heart in business

28:31 – How to operate from our true selves

47:51 – Work with Muse + summary of the 3 steps

Find Muse At…

Website – www.medicineofthefeminine.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/medicineofthefeminine/

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Create a compelling business idea in 6 steps with my Free Business Action Guide

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Perfecting Your Prices: 5 Steps to Sell Your Services With Ease

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

If you're wondering where to start when it comes to pricing your services or if you've ever regretted pricing your services too low, this episode is for you! I'm sharing my top 5 strategies to help you confidently pitch yourself and your prices, winning work with your dream clients with ease.

Episode Takeaways

Get my FREE business action guide – How to clarify a talent that translates to a successful business, how to solidify your resistible offer, how to use my step by step framework to begin building a business and finding your first client immediately.
Do your research (yes, Google is a great place to begin!).
If you desire to work with large companies, speak to recruiters or key decision-makers – it’s informative to learn about what roles are out there, what skills people want to hire, and what people are willing to pay right now.
If you are doing 1:1 work, visit the websites of people who do the same thing you do (with similar experience and expertise). Figure out how much they are charging and decide if that feels accurate for your skills and experience.
Work out how much you want to take home before taxes each year – how does this then breakdown into projects/hours?
Consider the following factors: Your knowledge, experience, certifications, background, and education. Charge accordingly.
Your pricing will be very different to someone with a lot less experience. Do not underestimate your skills and experience you have built up over a lot of time.
Practice a pricing conversation – with family and friends, your dog or cat, or stand in front of the mirror and pretend you are with your dream client and practice. Imagine they have just asked what you charge. Just practice!
Anticipate every question your potential client may ask you – practice your answers.
Consider discounts really carefully, say no most of the time - if not all of the time. Think about what you can add instead for your client versus taking away from your pricing.
Pricing comes down to a perceived value and you could lose the opportunity altogether if you price yourself too low.
If you do price too low, make sure to adjust next time.

Remember…

If you get pricing wrong the first few times, you can refine and improve as you go.

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:22 – Step 1: How and what research to do first.

07:29 – Step 2: How to create a financial goal given these factors.

09:42 – Step 3: Learn how to consider your background, expertise, and skillset when it comes to pricing.

11:34 – Step 4: Why you must practice the pricing conversation and how to do it.

14:58 – Step 5: “Do you give discounts?” How to answer this question along with a bunch of other annoying questions that happen in pricing conversations.

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Make your business idea official in 6 steps with my Free Business Action Guide

How To Start A Business While Working A Full-Time Job

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 01:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m covering everything you need to know about starting a business when you have a full-time job. I share 5 different strategies you can implement in your life to help you balance your full-time job and a growing business.

Episode Takeaways

Get my FREE business action guide - translate your talent into a successful business, solidify your resistible offer, use my step-by-step framework to begin building a business, and finding your first client immediately.
You need to be clear on why you are starting your business, otherwise, the other demands in your life will win.
Having a strong why keeps you going, motivated, and inspired to work on your business.
Write down why you want to start your business – why is it important to your, who do you want to help, who do you want to serve, what difference will it make to your life, how will you feel as you work on this business?
When you add something else to your plate, it HAS to be worth it!
Do it for the joy and because you love the process.
Starting a business while you are working a full-time job will require your time, money, and mental energy – realistically decide what you are willing to commit.
Don’t crash and burn – you are on this journey for the long run!
If you over-commit, you will be disappointed in yourself and it can lead to a downward spiral.
Set yourself up so you can win.
Your commitment will change depending on what else is going on in your life at the time and that’s ok.
The beauty of having your own business is that you can decide how much time, energy, and money you commit to it at any given point.
Start small and be realistic – starting too big will make you feel like you want to give up.
Be ruthless with how you spend your time, energy, and money.
You don’t need to go and get fancy branding and get the latest hardware etc – they are all great but focus on getting your business up and running instead.
Get a website presence, accountant, and bookkeeper straight away.
Be really clear on what service or product you are offering and who your ideal customer is, as well as why you are doing it.
Start building your email list straight away.
Get yourself out there and in front of your ideal customer.
Don’t get caught up in the busy work that is not getting you in front of your ideal customer.
Book Recommendation – Essentialism by Greg McKeown
Outsource the busy work or leave it out altogether.
Busy work is the work that doesn’t really need to be done by you or you’re not very good at.
Some of the finances you bring in with your full-time job can be used to outsource.
Examples of work to outsource – bookkeeping, accounting, legal, social media, download creation, research,
Set things up properly at the start so the foundation is sorted.
Physically schedule time in your calendar to work on your business.
There is no race to the finish line – every step you take will get you to be a business owner.

Remember…

Start a business for the joy and because you love the thing you want to start. You should truly have love or passion for it. Do it because you love the process! Your business should not just feel like more work.

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:34 – How to balance a full-time job and side hustle

05:45 – Get clear on your why

11:20 – Be realistic on commitment

16:50 – Bee ruthless with your resources

20:58 – Outsource the busywork

25:50 – Scheduling time to work on your business

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Make your business idea official in 6 steps with my Free Business Action Guide

How to Build A Successful Freelancing Business In 9 steps with Holly Knoll

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary:

This week’s episode is a solo episode! I’m giving you a peek behind the curtain of the content I teach inside my program, The Consultant Code. Today you’ll learn the 9 steps that I think are most important to take when building a successful freelance or consulting business.

Episode Takeaways:

There is an easier way to start a business than just ‘winging it’.
Make the decision and commit to starting your business.
Your time is too valuable to go in just halfway – go all in!
Learn what you need to learn and take the actions you need to take in order to achieve your goals.
You need to know your ‘why’ for when times get tough
It is best to find why you are doing this when you are in a healthy and enthusiastic state of mind.
Our sphere of control is much bigger as business owners than employees – your dreams are unlimited when you work for yourself.
How big you go with your business and how far you go is entirely up to you.
Write down your 3-4 biggest dreams and put it on your computer or mirror so you look at it every day.
Work on adjusting your mindset first because this will help you build an unshakable foundation to building your business.
You don’t need to be all things to all people.
Defining your offer – What are you good at? Find out by taking the Clifton Strengths Finder test. What do you love to do? Where is there a need for the things you are good at?
Get clear on what you do – Avoid using industry jargon. Name what you do, who you serve, the pain point you are alleviating for somebody and how you do it.
Don’t miss opportunities talking about what it is you do and describing it in a way everyone can understand.
As business owners, we get to choose exactly who we work with.
Decide what personalities and types of people you want to work with.
Get really clear on who you want to serve in your business. Think about age, occupation, where they live, what do they do for fun, what keeps them up at night, kids, family life, what matters to them, what do they value!
Referrals are incredible for your business – they require little or no work and usually come from people who have previously worked with you or know you.
Don’t rely only on referrals – you can find clients online by sharing what you know, starting conversations, engaging and adding value for your audience.
You need to look at your taxes and books from DAY ONE. When you start your business, you should find a tax advisor who understands you, your life and your business so they can help advise you on your business.
Be really picky about who you hire as a tax advisor – read my blog here.
Bench.co – online service for bookkeeping – great way to automate your books.
Never do any work without a contract in place – ask for one or provide one.
Get a lawyer who understand your business to look over any contracts you receive. You want to protect your business.
If you do not detail your services, clients will ask you to do more and you could have a hard time saying no.
Be general on your contract with big corporate clients – allows for change in terms of role and responsibilities.
It is so important to take a step back, pause and celebrate those wins!
Take time at the end of every month to review what went well.
Do something nice for yourself – take time for you and celebrate how far you’ve come.
Celebrate progress over perfection.
Get on the waitlist for my membership – opening early 2021!

Remember…

No matter how big or small the win, make sure you are celebrating those wins and giving yourself credit for all the hard work you have done!

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:40 – Step 1 – Make the decision and commit.

04:57 – Step 2 – Find your why.

11:32 – Step 3 – Visualise your wildest dreams.

15:55 – Step 4 – Define your offer.

21:42 – Step 5 – Articulate your ideal client.

27:20 – Step 6 – Taxes and books.

30:37 – Step 8 – Legal and contracts.

34:52 – Step 9 – Celebrate!

Chat With Me At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Solidify your business idea with my Free Business Action Guide

How To Set S.E.X.Y. Goals with Jenessa MacKenzie

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Does goal setting overwhelm you? I've got you! Jenessa MacKenzie, a business mindset coach and brand strategist, and I are talking all about the incredible power we have inside ourselves to create the lives we want. AND we'll give you the path to get there... it all begins with creating S.E.X.Y goals!

How To Build The Community You Wish Existed with Asya Watkins

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 01:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode, I'd love for you to meet Asya Watkins. Asya is a highly regarded expert in the project management industry, not only has she built her entire career around project management, she's created a community to support, inspire, and grow women of color in Project Management.

Asya and I get deep into what it's like to be a woman of color in the project management industry AND what it's like to have a full-time job and run a business all at the same time.

Episode Takeaways

Women only make up 30% of people in the project management industry.
As a woman of color, it can feel like you have a lot of weight on your shoulders and people may question you more.
The minority tax – all the extra things you have to think about to consider other people’s perspectives.
People sometimes assume you are less than, so you have to have the confidence to let people know you deserve to be there.
If you experience discrimination - don’t lose your confidence. Take a step back and look at your organization’s culture.
People of color are taught to mute ourselves in corporate America.
Walk in, be professional, know your stuff inside and out and learn how to stand up for yourself.
You will have circumstances where you will not be treated fairly.
If you see someone treating a person of color unfairly make sure you investigate properly, stand your ground and don’t allow it to happen.
Wherever you work, it should be an environment that is serving you.
Trust your gut, if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
As a freelancer, you get to decide who you want to work for and if you vibe with your client.
As a freelancer, you can be a part of a company without being in a company.
Figure out what your strengths are and use them to work out what’s next.

Remember...

Whatever you are doing, whatever your goal is, give yourself the grace to recalibrate, start over and regroup when you need to. Allow space for grace.

You Don’t Want to Miss…

04:58 – Asya’s career journey in project management

09:40 – Women in project management

13:50 – Representation in the project management industry

19:48 – Experiencing Discrimination in the workplace

35:00 – Employee to business owner

46:39 – Asya’s membership, Women of Project Management

Find Asya At…

Website – www.womenofpm.com

Instagram – www.instagram.com/womenofpm

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Grab your Free Business Action Guide - and have a pitch-ready idea for your first client!

From Cinematography to Helping People Discover Their True Selves with Courtney Koester

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 01:00:00 -0600

From the film and cinematography industry to coaching others to discover who they really are with Courtney Koester.

Episode Summary

In this week’s episode of the podcast I have the lovely Courtney Koester who went from working in the film industry to building her business as an empowerment coach. We challenge you to ask bigger questions of yourself and your life, really thinking about what you want. Courtney gives us guidelines and ways to know when we are out of alignment and not living in our integrity.

Episode Takeaways

Being misaligned in your career is all consuming and it leaves you feeling disconnected to yourself.
Be honest with yourself and think about what skills you have right now – what are you good at, what do you enjoy, what have my experiences taught me?
Don't ignore your inner wisdom, because this builds the self-trust you need for the unknown.
Who you really are is a lifelong project.
Deep breaths are really helpful to connect yourself to self.
Remember you are human and have patience with yourself – allow yourselves to get to a point of awareness.
It’s okay if all you do today is cope.
Everyone has different capacity levels – how much you have to give at any given moment.
If you are burnt out in one area, it will affect every area.
Understand what your capacity is so you can communicate that.
You have to find what is nourishing for you and what helps to emotionally regulate you – eg. Get a drink, eat food, listen to a podcast.
You can’t show up as your best self if you are running on empty.
Set boundaries to meet goals and work on what is most important.
It’s okay to reset your expectations – this can help you set those boundaries.
You reserve the right to change your mind at any time.
The second something feels painful or unhealthy – change your mind.
There is not one right way for anything.
Authenticity is a personal journey and responsibility – you have to decide what your values are and see if they align with the space you are in.
Self-connection leads to more enriching relationships.
It’s okay if something that once felt good, doesn’t feel good anymore.

Remember

Change is inevitable – say yes to it! We have to continue to evolve and grow and constantly check in with ourselves as to what feels good throughout life.

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:12 – The journey from film industry to empowerment coach

07:56 – Wake up – it’s time to make a change

12:39 – Corporate job to business owner

18:24 – Discovering your purpose

22:00 – Knowing your capacity

25:55 – Setting boundaries

33:21 – Showing up as your authentic self in a corporate environment

38:02 – Recognizing your energy and self-connection

42:05 – Saying yes to evolution

45:06 – Courtney’s coaching program

Find Courtney At…

Website – www.ckoesterinspired.com

Instagram – www.instagram.com/ckoesterinspired

Coaching Program – www.ckoesterinspired.com/evolve

Birth Chart Readings – www.ckoesterinspired.com/readings

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Grab your freebies:

From Brand Management to Successful Beauty Startup and Food Blog with Petra Langer

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary:

If you’ve ever thought you weren’t creative, think again! In this week’s episode of The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast, Petra Langer is taking us through her journey of brand manager turned beauty startup owner and food blogger. Petra breaks down a simple formula that you can use to start a blog for under $500 AND how she (accidentally) found her creativity. You’ll walk away with practical steps on how to combat imposter syndrome and maybe even a recipe or two!

You Don’t Want to Miss…

04:09 – Petra’s journey from corporate to creative business owner

07:48 – How Petra decided to make the leap into business ownership

14:43 – Everything you need to know when it comes to starting a food blog, during COVID, in record time

24:08 – How to find and channel your inner creativity

26:40 - On beating the Sunday Scaries

28:25 - The perks of being a freelancer

30:45 - How to manage imposter syndrome when trying something new

34:56 - The importance of taking action vs. remaining in learning mode

39:10 - Episode recap

Grab your FREE guide to solidify your business idea - Business Action Guide

Find Petra at:

Could Freelancing Be Right For You?

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Thinking of starting a freelancing business but you’re not quite sure it’s right for you? On this week’s episode I am covering 6 fundamental questions to ask yourself if you’re considering starting your own freelancing business.

I break each question down and why it’s important. After this episode, you’re bound to have a good idea if freelancing could be right for you.

You don't want to miss...

01:19 – Why the fall is an opportune time to make a big career decision

03:40 – The different types of freelancing options

05:31 – Six questions to ask yourself to determine if freelancing is right for you

15:49 – Other freelancing resources on the blog

Grab your FREE guide to solidify your business idea - Business Action Guide

From Wedding Photography To Scaling Online: How One Photographer Built a Pandemic-Proof Business

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 01:00:00 -0600

On this week’s episode of the podcast I have Steven De Cuba, who is a branding expert and an amazing wedding and branding photographer. We talk all about promoting and growing your brand on social media, the power of being live and why you will never feel ready to start your business so you should just start today!

Episode Takeaways

You don’t have to know exactly how you are going to make something happen, you just need to keep showing up
If you surround yourself with people who are inspiring and doing things that you aspire to do, it will help you to become more knowledgeable and progress in your career
Everything in our lives is a process – trust this process
Reach out with people to collaborat, increase your experience, and build confidence
If you don’t have clients, get yourself out there, do the work and make new connections
We have to put ourselves out there no matter how many people may say no
On social media, show up for your ideal client and rather than making it about you, remember your business is about your customers!
A beautiful Instagram feed is not the only reason people buy, you need to put out your message and create content that attracts your ideal audience
You don’t need to have a lot of followers to build an online business
There is never a right time, just get started today!
Doing the uncomfortable things is scary and not many people do them, but these things bring real and tangible results
Going live on social media is the most effective way to create relationships and build trust
Being ready is a choice – you have the opportunity to make those excuses or make it happen

Remember...

Keep going, keep showing up, do the work and there will be results! Make that choice to be ready today.

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:20 – An introduction to Steven De Cuba

11:42 – Building confidence as a wedding photographer

17:22 – Adjusting your business to new environments

21:34 – Using social media to grow your personal brand

29:20 – Promoting your business on social media

37:52 – The formula to stand out from others on social media

Find Steven At…

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/stevendecuba/

Website – https://www.stevendecuba.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/StevendeCubaPage/

Chat With Holly and Grab Your Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Grab your freebies:

How One Corporate Belief Could Hinder Your Success As An Entrepreneur (and what to do instead!)

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Welcome to my very FIRST solo podcast episode!

If you’ve been sitting on an idea for a long time but you just don’t feel ready to put it out there, this episode is for YOU! There’s a good reason behind procrastination - that has absolutely nothing to do with you being lazy or not excelling at execution.

If you’ve spent YEARS in Corporate America, I strongly believe something else is at play when it comes to why you might not be taking action. Something that has nothing to do with you… so relax and go easy on yourself, this is a good one today!

Once you’re aware of this one thing it can be the difference between making your dreams a reality or doing the same ‘ol, same ‘ol.

Ready to put your dreams into motion?

You Don’t Want to Miss…

01:34 – The importance of changing your beliefs

02:17 – What Corporate America teaches us that doesn’t set us up for success in entrepreneurship

07:24 – News flash: Life altering change time!

10:45 – My continued struggle in this area, and tools I use to combat it

13:02 – How to implement the tools in your life

Remember...

You don’t have to get everything right, you don’t have to get everything perfect, you just have to take imperfect action and that will get you progress.

Grab your freebies:

Solidify your business idea - Free Business Action Guide
Simplify your life - FREE Checklist of 7 Tools to Save Time and Reduce Overwhelm

How To Find Clients Without Exhausting Your Network with Adela Schoolderman

Tue, 11 Aug 2020 10:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary:

Looking for new ways to network and find freelancing roles outside your current network? On today’s episode, Adela Schoolderman and I get into the nitty gritty of networking and how to differentiate yourself in an interview with a recruiter. Adela Schoolderman is a highly experienced recruiter in the technology space who brings an authentic human approach to recruiting. Adela makes it her mission to match freelancers with roles that are fantastic fits with her clients - it’s more than just a numbers game for her, she sees recruiting as much more than filling positions. In this episode you’ll learn what’s going through a recruiter’s mind when they’re interviewing you, how to ace an interview with a recruiter, and perhaps most importantly, why it’s important to build relationships with recruiters and how to find ones who have your best interests at heart.

Episode Takeaways:

How Adela went from driving an ambulance to building a successful career as a recruiter
When speaking or working with a new recruiter, trust your gut. If the relationship doesn’t feel trustworthy from the beginning, it’s perfectly fine to walk away.
Why it’s important to talk to recruiters - even if you’re not actively looking for a new position
What evergreen recruiting means and why recruiters may reach out to you even if they don’t have a specific role for you at the moment (and why you should still talk to them!)
Holly’s firm belief on the importance of speaking to recruiters. Why it’s important to talk to everyone who reaches out and why this can be a golden opportunity to learn about the industry when it comes to rates, understanding hot roles, and of course, networking
Helpful tools to negotiate negotiation
Why it’s important to showcase your soft skills and specific problems you have solved versus the more tangible skills that everyone has
Why it’s key to tailor your resume to the position in which you’re applying, and the ideal length of a resume. Hint: 5 pages is too long!
The importance of using strong leadership-driven words in your resume.
Have a story and talk about your experience to tell when you apply for a new role.
How freelancing gives you the freedom to work on lots of different projects in various industries and builds your skillsets.
Use LinkedIn to connect with recruiters who can help you to find your dream role.
Keep your LinkedIn profile and resume updated, as well as share articles that showcase your expertise.

Remember...

Keep talking and asking! You never know what doors could open and who you’ll meet. Your dream role could be just around the corner..

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:00 – Adela’s Journey to Becoming a Recruiter

06:40 – The Signs of a Good Recruiter

11:03 – The Importance of Conversations

13:07 – Evergreen Recruiting

14:15 – The Benefits of Speaking to a Recruiter

16:54 – Interview Tips for Freelancers

23:10 – Personality over Qualifications

25:47 – Common Mistakes Freelancers Make

29:45 – Describing Your “What”

32:46 – Getting Started as a Freelancer

37:50 – Freelancing During a Pandemic

43:55 – Finding a Recruiter

46:49 – Tips on Finding Your Next Role

Grab your freebies:

Solidify your business idea - Free Business Action Guide
Simplify your life - FREE Checklist of 7 Tools to Save Time and Reduce Overwhelm

Find Adela At:

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adelas/

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At:

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Resources Mentioned:

https://www.toptal.com/

https://www.comparably.com/

From Marketing Laundry Detergent To Building A Highly Successful Freelancing Business with Caren Williams

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Episode Summary:

To think it all started with marketing laundry detergent and coffee, how one Brand Strategist and highly successful business owner, Caren Williams, built her freelancing business. Caren shares her journey as a business owner - what it was like to be responsible for marketing major brands such as Folgers Coffee and Tide and what brought her into the world of freelancing.

Caren Williams is a brand and marketing strategist with over 15 years of experience building brands on the agency side and also in-house. She loves sharing both her passion and expertise with brands big and small, old and new, helping channel their own passion into real growth.

Caren works as a member of brand and marketing teams to discover, craft and build some of the world’s leading and fastest growing brands.

Prior to working independently, Caren was a Director of Strategy at Interbrand, the world’s largest brand consultancy and also worked in-house at both Procter & Gamble and Nestle in Brand Management. When Caren is not strategizing about brands, you’ll find her volunteering with the four-legged type, both as a puppy raiser for Guide Dogs for the Blind and with the San Francisco SPCA in the Animal Assisted Therapy Program.

Join Caren and I as we chat about all things freelancing, including how to build a successful freelancing business, stand out from the crowd, and how to find dream clients.

Episode Takeaways:

How to stand out in saturated business, the importance of standing out, and key steps to build your own niche freelancing company.
The importance of selecting clients that are a great fit both ways - for you and for them.
How to build relationships organically - a key factor in securing business for a very long time.
Maintain contact with clients you have enjoyed working with as there may be other opportunities in the future.
How to deal with a gig that isn’t ideal and how it could lead to something that is better.
Don’t compromise your values and your integrity.
Articulate your services clearly. You can do this by asking yourself.. What is it that I’m selling? What are people buying from me? Why am I the person people want to buy from?
It’s critical to be really clear on what you offer and at what cost.
If what you offer is not clear to you, it is probably not clear to your potential customers.
An easy way to stand out from others is how you can describe your business and how you will answer your ideal client’s prayers. This is something many people struggle with, if you can nail this down you’re already ahead!
If you want something, put it out there. The more people you tell, the more they will ask you about it and want your help.

Remember...

If you want to become a freelancer, take that first step. The worst thing that could happen is that it doesn’t work out!

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:05 – Caren’s journey from employee to freelancer

05:33 – How to finding your brand identity, and why this is important as a freelancer

08:40 – How Caren began her brand strategy freelance business

15:20 – A day in the life of a freelancer, what really happens behind the scenes

19:10 – How to find dream clients

26:28 – …. and how to effectively manage those not-so-ideal client relationships while maintaining your professional integrity

34:45 – How to differentiate your brand

37:19 – How to hone in on your “what”, the exact services your freelancing company provides

44:28 – Practical steps to become a freelancer

Find Caren At…

Website – www.caren-williams.com
Linked In - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carenwilliams/

Grab your freebies:

Chat With Me and Find More Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll
Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

How To Differentiate Your Business in a Saturated Industry with Jeff Chang

Tue, 14 Jul 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Title

Episode Summary

Today’s episode is an interview with my lovely long-time friend, Jeff Chang. Jeff left the corporate world to start his own business, designing golf apparel like nothing I've ever seen - golf hats, accessories and clothing that truly really stand out. And I LOVE it!!!

Today we are going to be talking all about Jeff’s business, how he got to where he is today and where his inspiration comes from.

Episode Takeaways:

How one hat - THE HAT - changed Jeff's business forever, and furthermore underscored his company values
How to TRULY stand out in a saturated market
What it's like to go up against big players like Nike and major brands as a small business
What to do when an opportunity so big comes your way - something that you may have only considered in your dreams
When you take risks in business, as long as they align back to our personal values, you can’t go far wrong.
Why we can't be all things to all people - and why that's a-ok!
How to be okay with taking risks and failing, an essential part of learning and growing.
Rejection sucks, but the important thing is to not give up.
Selling is carrying on asking and asking... until someone says yes. And people WILL.
“Maybe” is the worst answer you can get. Really!
The art of flexibility. Why it’s better to be less committed to allow for space to react in your business, than come up with a huge master plan and it not work out.
On starting your own business and why it's KEY to center it around something you're truly passionate about.
Why no effort ever goes unnoticed and how you never know how your deep efforts are going to come back to you in ways you couldn't have imagined.
If you create enough momentum every single day, good things will follow... true story!
How and why you need to constantly be in front of people every single day.
Finally, it is important to stop and recognize how far you have come so far. All the steps you have taken and work you have put in, has got you to where you are today.

Remember…

How one hat changed an entire business model. What is your "hat"? What fuels you? Jeff and I emphasize the importance of creating your side hustle, and growing it. By continuing to do the work and keep showing up, it WILL eventually pay off. And we also want you to know how "maybe" could be just about the worst answer you could get...

You Don’t Want to Miss…

03:17 – Jeff’s Business – D.Hudson

04:24 – Design Inspiration

07:32 – Finding Your Ideal Customer

09:30 – Creating Raving Fans

10:40 – The Story Behind THE HAT

17:07 – Taking Risks in Business

19:39 – Being OK with Failure and Rejection

25:50 – The Journey to Becoming an Entrepreneur

30:38 – How to Just Keep Going

35:35 – Measuring ‘Success’

Find Jeff At…

Website – www.dhudsongolfwear.com/

Instagram – www.instragram.com/dhudsongolfwear

Facebook – www.facebook.com/dhudsongolfwear/

Chat With Me and More Free Resources At…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email me – holly@hollyknoll.com

Grab your freebies:

How To Make Rejection Work To Your Advantage with Shayla Dopp

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Embrace rejection! I know, friend, waaaaay easier said than done.

That’s why in this episode, I interview Shayla Dopp, creative and owner of Dopp. It is through Dopp, Shayla’s California-made fashion design business, that Shayla’s incredible creativity comes to life. Shayla is a one-woman show who creates and sells her own gorgeously-designed handmade shoes, perfume, candles, and accessories.

Shayla’s entrepreneurship journey is nothing short of tricky twists and turns. Starting her career in the Paris fashion industry, Shayla eventually went to “shoe school” to learn how to cobble shoes. Yes! There’s a school for that!

From shoe school, Dopp was born… but not overnight, without many rejections, no’s, and doors literally shut in her face.

Join me as Shayla and I chat good ol’ fashioned rejection, tenacity, and inspiration… and why hearing the word “no” can sometimes be the greatest gift one can receive.

Episode Takeaways:

When it comes to work, remember that we are all going to work hard no matter what we do – why not make it doing something you love.
Don’t be afraid to say no. Always trust your gut when you start to see red flags or areas for concern.
How to carefully evaluate whether going into business with a partner is right for you. Choosing the right partner, as in life, is critical to your business’ success - choosing the wrong partner can spell disaster for something you’ve worked so hard to build.
When selling a product, it is critical to know who your ideal client is and what they desire. Failure to understand your ideal client’s pain points and desires can mean missing the mark completely with your business and elongating your business’ success.
How to know if you’re on to something can often mean hearing the word “no”. If someone is telling you “no” and questioning your business, intentions, or idea, this could very well be a GOOD thing, you’re on to something!
The answer, “no”, is does not mean failure, it’s simply a request for more information.
Why failure isn’t something to fear, how to truly see it as a gift and an incredible opportunity to learn and evolve in your business.
And if you do make a mistake, relax. There is ALWAYS another chance to try a new idea, test something else, or create a new product, or service if things don’t work as you planned the first time.

Remember…

The way to know you are on to something, can very well be when you keep hearing “no” over and over again. Take the “no” and keep pressing on, tenacity, determination, and feedback will ultimately get you to a yes!

You don’t want to miss…

02.10 – An Introduction to Shayla Dopp

04:00 – Getting Started in Fashion Design/Business

08:26 – Working for Yourself

10:43 – Partners in Business

16:03 – Learning the Hard Way

22:22 – Made in the USA

24:44 – The Ideal Client

26:07 – Getting Inspired

29:18 – Overcoming “No”

32:35 – Funding a Start-Up Product Business

34:43 – Just Go for it

To connect after the show you can…

Find Shayla at:

Website – www.dopp.city

Instagram – www.instagram.com/dopp.city

Chat with me at:

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email – holly@hollyknoll.com

Grab your freebies:

How To Get Found On Google with Melissa McGraw

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Do you want to make it easier for dream clients and customers to find you on Google? In today's episode I'm sitting down with SEO superwoman, Melissa McGraw. Melissa is the founder of The Creative Potential, an SEO agency that helps entrepreneurs grow their organic search and their audience by DOUBLE digits in a matter of months. Melissa shares with us 3 easy steps you can implement into your website immediately to help your business get found on Google.

Episode Takeaways:

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps you to be found on google.
It’s easy to take for granted what we do well, but there are so many people out there who are not good at it and could benefit from your skills or service.
If you are looking for some partners in your business, join some of the Facebook groups that fit with you.
You can’t rely on your traffic coming from platforms such as Facebook and Instagram as they could drop overnight due to ever-changing algorithms.
It is important to get your website optimized so you can be found organically for what you want to be known for.
There are 1.9 million websites out there right now, so you need to optimize so you can be found amongst all of these websites!
Make sure your site is mobile friendly – test everything on your own phone.
Mobile is very important because it comprises at least 60% of search!
Check your site for broken links – the dreaded 404 error page. This will affect your Domain Authority.
Name your images with key words before you upload them to your website. This helps decrease duplicate content if you are using stock images.
Think about what you want to be known for, what would people type into google to find your business?
You can’t understand what your ideal customer is searching for if you don’t know who your ideal customer is.
Understand who you are trying to target and who you want to attract, then build this into your SEO strategy.
SEO is a work in progress, it takes some time but it is so worth it.
SEO will help in the long run and sustain your business.
Take some time to understand your website SEO so you know what is going on, even if you choose to hire an expert.
There are so many opportunities you could miss out on if your site is not optimized.

Remember…

To sustain your business, you need to make sure you have an optimized website. Don’t put all of your eggs in that social media basket, because they could change at any point.

You don’t want to miss…

02.10 – An Introduction to Melissa

07:35 – Melissa’s career journey

12:18 – Developing an SEO agency

17:22 – Why should we care about SEO?

21:08 – DIY SEO

30:15 – Understanding your ideal customer

35.35 – SEO Mistakes to avoid

39:54 – Staying motivated as a business owner

To connect after the show:

Find Melissa at...

Website – https://www.thecreativepotential.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecreativepotential/

Chat with Holly at…

Website - http://hollyknoll.com/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/hollyknoll/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/consult.hollyknoll

Email – holly@hollyknoll.com

Grab your freebies:

Other resources:

The One Question That Every Business Owner Must Be Asking Right Now

Tue, 26 May 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Intro: In today’s episode we are talking to Teresa Heath Wareing about how to continue thriving as a business when everything has been turned upside down. PLUS Teresa will be sharing her secret question that every business owner must be asking right now.

Key points:

When starting your business, decide on your “why” and use that to motivate you.

Working for yourself is not as risky as you may think.

The positive thing about right now, is that it’s making people take action.

The time is now!

Now is your chance to do things like review your website and what you can offer people online.

By taking your offering online, your customers can now be from anywhere, not just near you.

If you can offer a service to help and support, then keep advertising your business.

Coaching and consulting is a really big opportunity right now as another income stream.

Set your goals every quarter and review them – Dream big!

Keep going the best you can during this time because this will end.

Tweak your goals to be more relevant to the time now to keep you motivated.

Remember…

Have confidence in yourself and your business. There is no reason why we can’t be selling right now, people are still buying and need our services/products.

You don’t want to miss…

01.20 – An Introduction to Teresa

07:31 – Deciding to start your own business and go for it!

12:32 – Thriving during a crisis

17:09 – Start doing this TODAY

23:53 – Side Hustles

24:58 – Setting your dreams and goals

28:40 – Taking action right now

Resources mentioned:

Website – www.teresaheathwareing.com

Instagram – www.instagram.com/teresa_heathwareing

The Secret to Getting Back Up After Being Knocked Down with Gregory Marinelli

Tue, 26 May 2020 01:00:00 -0600

Intro: Hello, I am Holly Knoll and welcome to the Everyday Entrepreneur podcast. If you have always wanted to start a business but don’t know how or where to start, you have come to the right place! Today I am speaking to my friend Gregory Marinelli all about his business as a real estate agent and how he got to where he is today.

Key points:

When you are a business owner, you need to ask yourself.. “Who am I?”, “What do I need to show up for my clients?”.

When deciding on your new business, think about your strengths, your curiosities, your values, what are you known for?

The way we react to the pandemic is a reflection of where we are internally.

Right now, we need to do our best to show up for our clients and customers to help them the best we can.

Life really does go on and we have to keep on going even when we get knocked down.

It is so important to get your day off to the right start because it sets the tone for the rest of the day.

BS = Belief Systems.

What are your visions? What hope do you have for the future?

Listen to your unconscious mind, what does our self-talk say?

You don’t have to do your business journey alone.

There is so much free content out there for you to utilize when setting up your business.

It is most important to know your purpose – what value do I have?

Meeting people in person is important in gaining clients.

Sphere of influence – people we know, like and trust us.

Networking is important for growing your business.

We don’t have to serve every single person in the world!

Remember…

It is okay to seek help, it is okay to ask for guidance.

You don’t want to miss…

2.51 – Who is Gregory Marinelli?

8:40 – Finding your “What”

13:00 – How has business changed since coronavirus?

17:40 - Getting back up after being knocked down

19:49 – The Miracle Morning

24:10 – Belief Systems

29:44 – Taking Action

37:50 – Finding Clients

Resources mentioned:

Website – www.gregorymarinelli.com

Instagram – www.instagram.com/gregorymarinelli

The Miracle Morning - https://amzn.to/3efmoQv

Welcome to The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast

Thu, 21 May 2020 01:00:00 -0600

How do I start a business? How do I grow and scale my existing business? And the most essential question, how can I do what truly fulfills me? Welcome to The Everyday Entrepreneur Podcast, a relaxed business podcast where you’ll learn the answers to these questions along with best-kept business secrets from straight-talking, humble, yet oh-so-inspiring entrepreneurs. A corporate grind deserter with a passion for teaching and taking action, business coach and host Holly Knoll brings to life relatable stories of business owners that will prepare you to start a business or dive into your existing business with a fresh perspective, new ideas, and actionable tips. You'll be energized to stop wasting your precious time being bored at work in favor of creating a fulfilling career that turns what you love... into what you do!