The REAL Truth About Business: Business Strategy for Service Based Entrepreneurs

My Q1 2026 Business Debrief: Revenue, Growth, and What's Actually Working [Ep. 354]

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400

My Q1 2026 Business Debrief: Revenue, Growth, and What's Actually Working

If your revenue feels inconsistent or you’re questioning what’s actually working in your business, this episode is going to hit home. In this episode of The Real Truth About Business podcast, I’m pulling back the curtain on my Q1 2026 business debrief. I’m walking you through the real numbers, the decisions, and the strategy behind what’s driving sustainable revenue growth right now. This is for service-based entrepreneurs who are stuck in a revenue plateau and need to start making smarter, data-driven decisions in their business strategy.

I’m sharing what actually worked, what didn’t, and how I’m thinking about growth moving forward. Because after 9 years of experience, I can tell you this: surface-level metrics will keep you stuck. You need to go deeper. This episode will show you how to evaluate your pricing strategy, lead generation, and sales process so you can build a business that’s predictable, scalable, and actually aligned with where you want to go.

What You'll Learn:

How to analyze your business data beyond surface-level revenue numbers
What consistent revenue really looks like in a service-based business
How to identify which lead generation strategies are actually driving clients
Why in-person events can dramatically improve your sales process and ROI
How to evaluate offers that aren’t converting and adjust your pricing strategy
What to track in your business to break through a revenue plateau

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction: Behind-the-scenes Q1 2026 business debrief

[05:30] Revenue breakdown and why consistency matters more than spikes

[12:45] Podcast growth, SEO strategy, and lead generation wins

[20:10] New client acquisition and where leads are actually coming from

[28:30] In-person event ROI and sales conversion insights

[36:50] Offer performance, cancellations, and strategic pivots

[45:00] Investments, lessons learned, and CEO decision-making

[52:30] Wrap-up and how to run your own business debrief

Key Takeaways:

Consistency Over Spikes Is the Real Goal

Here’s what I see constantly: business owners chasing high revenue months instead of building consistency. My revenue was down about 20% compared to last year, but my profit margin held steady at 50%. More importantly, my revenue became predictable. That’s what actually creates sustainable business growth.

When you’re building a service-based business, consistency gives you a baseline. And once you have a baseline, growth becomes a strategic decision instead of a gamble. This is a direct reflection of the Focused Visionary Framework, specifically your pipeline. Predictable revenue comes from a stable pipeline, not random cash injections.

The Data You’re Avoiding Has the Answers

After 9 years, I can confidently say this: the answers you want are in the data you’re not looking at. It’s easy to stop at revenue. But when I dug deeper, I saw why numbers shifted. Payment structures, past promotions, and one-time cash injections all impacted perception.

When you actually analyze your business strategy across pricing, pipeline, and sales, you stop reacting emotionally and start making strategic decisions. That’s how you break out of a revenue plateau.

What’s Actually Driving Clients Right Now

The biggest insight? Conversations convert. Every single client came from referrals, networking, in-person events, or the podcast. Not passive content alone. Not random marketing tactics.

In-person events alone produced a 931% ROI. That’s not a small win. That tells me exactly where to double down. If your lead generation isn’t converting, look at how close you are to real conversations. Your sales process improves dramatically when trust is built faster.

Strategy Requires Ownership and Adjustments

Not everything worked. Some offers didn’t sell. Some investments weren’t aligned. That’s part of being in CEO mindset. I take full responsibility for those decisions and use them to refine my strategy.

This is where most service-based entrepreneurs get stuck. They either ignore what’s not working or overcorrect emotionally. Instead, I look at the data, adjust the offer, refine positioning, and keep moving forward. That’s how real business growth happens.

Resources Mentioned

About the Host:

Michelle DeNio is a business strategist based in Sarasota, Florida, specializing in helping service-based entrepreneurs break through revenue plateaus using her Focused Visionary Framework. With over 300 podcast episodes and 9 years running her consulting business, she helps coaches, consultants, and service providers scale sustainably through strategic planning, pricing optimization, and sales process development.

Connect with Michelle

Your Conversion Rate is the Missing Link in Your Business Plan [Ep. 353]

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

If you’re setting revenue goals and still not hitting them, this episode is going to hit home. In this episode of The Real Truth About Business podcast, I’m breaking down one of the most overlooked pieces of business strategy that directly impacts your revenue growth: your conversion rate. This is for service-based entrepreneurs who are doing the marketing, showing up consistently, and still feeling stuck at a revenue plateau. After 9 years of experience, I can tell you this is rarely a marketing problem. It’s a data problem. Specifically, not knowing your numbers. Inside this episode, I walk you through how to calculate your conversion rate, how it impacts your lead generation and sales process, and how to actually use it to plan like a CEO instead of guessing. This is where strategic planning meets real data so you can finally create a business that makes sense on paper and in practice.

What You'll Learn:

How to calculate your conversion rate across different stages of your sales process
Why your revenue plateau might actually be a math problem, not a marketing problem
How to reverse engineer your business strategy using real conversion data
The difference between pipeline conversion rates and sales conversion rates
Why lead source, offer type, and client readiness impact your conversion rate
How to use conversion rate to set realistic revenue growth goals

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction: Why conversion rate is the most overlooked number in your business

[02:20] The truth about “big launches” and misleading conversion comparisons

[04:40] Breaking down a real example: 30% conversion rate and hitting client goals

[07:00] Understanding your pipeline and how many leads you actually need

[11:45] How to calculate conversion rate and why it varies by offer and source

[18:50] How to review your data and plan your next quarter like a CEO

[25:50] Using conversion rate to shift from reactive operator to strategic CEO

Key Takeaways:

It’s Not a Marketing Problem. It’s a Math Problem.

Here’s what I see constantly. Business owners doing all the lead generation activities and still stuck. After 9 years of working with service-based entrepreneurs, the issue is rarely visibility. It’s that there’s no connection between your numbers and your goals. Your conversion rate tells you exactly what’s happening inside your business. It shows you whether your pipeline can actually support your revenue targets or if you’re setting yourself up to hit a wall.

When you understand your conversion rate, you stop guessing. You stop relying on what worked for someone else. You start making decisions based on data. That’s real business strategy.

Your Pipeline, Pricing, and Sales Are All Connected

Inside the Focused Visionary Framework, we look at three core pillars: Pricing, Pipeline, and Sales. Conversion rate sits right in the middle of Pipeline and Sales. It tells you how effectively you’re moving people from awareness to decision.

If your conversion rate from call to client is 30%, and you want six clients, you need 20 calls. That’s not subjective. That’s math. Then the next question becomes: how many leads do you need to generate those 20 calls? That’s where your pipeline comes in.

When you start working backward like this, your business growth becomes predictable. You can see exactly where the gap is. More leads, better nurturing, or stronger sales conversations.

Not All Conversion Rates Are Created Equal

This is where most people get it wrong. They assume they have one universal conversion rate. That’s not how it works. Your conversion rate changes based on your offer, your lead source, and where someone is in your pipeline.

A referral is going to convert higher than a cold lead. A one-to-one sales call will convert differently than a webinar. Warm leads in the consideration phase behave differently than people who just became aware of you.

When you lump everything together, you lose clarity. When you separate it, you gain control. And that’s how you start making strategic decisions that actually move the needle.

CEO-Level Planning Starts with Data

If you want to get out of operator mode, this is the shift. You have to look at your business through facts, not feelings. Your conversion rate gives you the ability to set realistic goals, adjust your strategy, and decide where to focus your time.

Sometimes the answer is better nurturing. Sometimes it’s building your pipeline. Sometimes it’s refining your sales process. But you won’t know which one unless you’re tracking the data.

This is how you create sustainable revenue growth. Not by doing more. By doing what actually works.

Resources Mentioned

About the Host:

Connect with Michelle

The Real Reason You Can't Break Six Figures (It's Not Your Marketing)

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

The Real Reason You Can’t Break Six Figures (It’s Not Your Marketing) [Ep. 352]

If you feel like you are doing all the marketing things and still stuck below six figures, this episode is for you. On this episode of The Real Truth About Business podcast, I break down what is actually keeping service-based entrepreneurs trapped in a revenue plateau and why more content, more visibility, or more funnels will not fix it. I share what I have seen after 9 years of working closely with consultants, coaches, and solopreneurs who are working hard but not seeing consistent revenue growth.

We dig into the real business strategy shifts that create momentum and sustainable business growth. I also explain how focusing on the right operational levers like pricing strategy, lead generation quality, and your sales process can change everything. If you are ready to move out of operator mode and start thinking like a CEO, this conversation will help you understand exactly where to focus next.

What You’ll Learn:

Why marketing is rarely the true reason service-based entrepreneurs stay under six figures
The business strategy gaps that quietly create a long-term revenue plateau
How pricing strategy impacts cash flow, confidence, and revenue growth
The difference between more leads and the right lead generation approach
What a simple, effective sales process looks like at the six-figure level
How to shift out of solopreneur survival mode and into CEO mindset decision making

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Introduction and why this conversation matters for service-based business owners
[04:12] The biggest misconception about marketing and business growth
[09:35] How pricing and positioning affect your ability to scale revenue
[16:48] The role of lead generation quality versus quantity
[22:10] Why your sales process determines whether you break six figures
[28:55] Wrap-up and the first strategic step to take this week

Key Takeaways:

Marketing Is Often a Symptom, Not the Root Problem

Here is what I see constantly. Business owners assume that if revenue is inconsistent, they need more marketing. After 9 years of working with service-based entrepreneurs, I can tell you that marketing is rarely the actual issue. Most revenue plateaus come from deeper business strategy gaps. When pricing is unclear, offers are loosely positioned, or the sales process is reactive, more visibility only amplifies the instability.

Breaking six figures requires clarity on how your business is designed to generate revenue. That includes knowing exactly what you sell, who it is for, and how prospects move from lead generation into paying clients. Without that structure, marketing becomes exhausting and unpredictable.

The Three Pillars That Drive Revenue Growth

Inside my Focused Visionary Framework, I teach that sustainable business growth comes from strengthening three core areas. Pricing determines whether your business model can support your goals. Pipeline determines whether you have consistent, qualified opportunities. Sales determines whether those opportunities convert into revenue.

When service-based business owners focus on these pillars, they shift from operator mode into strategic planning. They begin making CEO-level decisions instead of reacting to short-term cash flow pressure. That shift is what allows revenue growth to become repeatable and scalable.

CEO Mindset Creates Strategic Momentum

Reaching six figures is not just about working harder. It is about thinking differently about how your service-based business operates. Strategic planning, clear pricing strategy, and a defined sales process create confidence. Confidence creates consistent action. Consistent action drives business growth.

If you are stuck, the solution is not to add more noise. It is to simplify your business strategy and focus on the levers that actually move revenue. When you do that, six figures stops feeling out of reach and starts becoming a logical next step.

Resources Mentioned

About the Host:

Connect with Michelle

24,000 in Revenue in 10 Days - Back Pocket Insights [Ep. 351]

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Let’s be honest. You’ve seen the headlines. “How I made $24K in 10 days.” And most of the time it’s missing context, nuance, and the real strategy behind it. Revenue without transparency creates comparison, not clarity. So today, you’re getting the full breakdown.

In this special behind the scenes episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle pulls back the curtain on how she secured $24,000 in recurring revenue in 10 days through a strategic sales sprint for the Focus Visionary Accelerator. She shares what actually converted, what flopped, how relationships played a massive role, and why integrity around deadlines matters. This is not hype marketing. It’s a real look at pricing strategy, pipeline nurturing, positioning shifts, and consistent selling in an online business.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will show you how sustainable scaling comes from relationship building, clear positioning, and staying in the sales conversation even when you want to stop.

You’ll learn:

The real breakdown behind a $24K recurring revenue sprint
Why email strategy and direct outreach mattered more than social media
How live events and relationship building accelerate conversions
The importance of standing in integrity with price increases and deadlines
Why you cannot stop selling just because you hit a short term revenue goal

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Stop Trying to Convince People to Hire You (And What to Do Instead) [Ep. 350]

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If your sales calls feel heavy, awkward, or like you’re trying to drag someone across the finish line, this is your wake up call. When you’re spending more time convincing people they need your help than actually delivering your work, burnout is right around the corner. And no, it’s not a sales script problem. It’s a positioning problem.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down the exhausting pattern of “convincing energy” that so many service based business owners fall into. From over explaining your offers to defending your pricing and chasing lukewarm leads, she explains why trying to create problem awareness and sell the solution at the same time will drain you fast. You’ll learn how to shift your messaging, clean up your pipeline, and focus on ready buyers instead of dragging people who aren’t prepared to invest.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop overworking in your sales process and start attracting clients who are already problem aware and ready to move.

You’ll learn:

The five signs you’re stuck in convincing energy
Why over educating on the problem slows down your sales cycle
How defending your pricing signals a positioning issue
The difference between nurturing and chasing lukewarm leads
How to align your messaging and pipeline to attract ready buyers

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Evergreen Sales vs. Launch Strategy: Which Revenue Model Works for Service-Based Businesses [Ep. 349]

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Evergreen or launching? This debate keeps service-based business owners stuck in indecision and second guessing. You see people burning out from back-to-back launches… and others sitting with Evergreen offers that aren’t converting. The truth? It’s not about which strategy is better. It’s about which one fits your pipeline, your personality, and your business model.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down the strategic difference between Evergreen offers and launch models. She shares when Evergreen actually works, why it doesn’t mean passive income, how launches create cash injections, and what most online business owners overlook when they switch models. You’ll walk away understanding how to evaluate your conversion rate, audience flow, urgency strategy, and energy before making a decision.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop copying what others are doing and start building a sales strategy that supports sustainable scaling.

You’ll learn:

What Evergreen really means and why it still requires an active sales system
When launching creates momentum and when it leads to burnout
How to evaluate your pipeline, traffic, and conversion rate before choosing
Why urgency and deadlines impact buyer behavior
The role your personality and sales energy play in long term success

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Nurturing Your Audience & Using Skills That Got You Here - Back Pocket Insights [Ep. 348]

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Your experience didn’t start the day you opened your business. But too many service-based entrepreneurs act like it did. You downplay your past careers, your corporate background, your hands-on experience, and then wonder why prospects don’t fully trust your authority. Your credibility didn’t magically appear. You earned it long before you ever sold your first offer.

In this special episode pulled from the private Back Pocket Insights podcast, Michelle shares two powerful reminders. First, how your previous career experience shapes your expertise, authority, and business strategy today and why you need to start talking about it. Second, a direct conversation about nurturing relationships the right way and why only showing up when you need clients is sabotaging long-term growth. If you want sustainable scaling in your online business, this is required listening.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you lean into your real experience and build relationships that create long-term trust, loyalty, and recurring revenue.

You’ll learn:

Why your previous career experience is a massive credibility asset
How to position your background to strengthen your authority
The difference between transactional networking and real nurturing
Why only engaging when you need clients damages trust
How consistent relationship building creates long-term business growth

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Short-Term vs Long-Term Marketing Strategy: When to Use Each for Business Growth [Ep. 347]

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If your marketing feels frustrating, inconsistent, or like you’re constantly working without stable results, it’s probably not because marketing “doesn’t work.” It’s because your expectations and your strategy are out of alignment. Most service-based business owners are either doing long term marketing and expecting short term sales… or living in nonstop launch mode with zero stability.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down the difference between short term and long term marketing and why you need both to create sustainable business growth. She explains how short term marketing drives immediate revenue, how long term marketing builds trust and authority, and how your pipeline is the bridge that connects them. If you’ve been wondering why your visibility isn’t converting or your launches feel exhausting, this conversation will bring clarity.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop guessing what to post and start making strategic marketing decisions based on what your business actually needs right now.

You’ll learn:

The difference between short term marketing and long term marketing
When to use direct offers, launches, and sales pushes strategically
Why podcasting, SEO, and thought leadership build authority but not instant sales
How to identify gaps in your pipeline that are stalling conversions
How to align your expectations with the type of marketing you’re doing

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

How to Track Business Growth as a Solopreneur: What to Measure Instead of KPIs [Ep. 346]

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Most solopreneurs think they need to track KPIs. But KPIs are corporate, overwhelming, and don't actually tell you what to do next. Here's what to track instead, and how to make your numbers actually exciting.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down why traditional KPIs often feel overwhelming and disconnected from real growth, and introduces a more aligned approach: Key Success Factors. Instead of tracking random metrics because you think you “should,” she walks you through how to identify the numbers that actually matter for your version of success. You’ll learn how to measure what moves the needle, spot patterns, and use your data to make smarter CEO decisions without drowning in corporate style reports.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop guessing and start leading your business with clarity backed by facts.

You’ll learn:

The difference between KPIs and Key Success Factors and why it matters
How to choose the right metrics for your business model and goals
What numbers every service based business owner should track
How to use month over month and year over year data strategically
How tracking the right data helps you forecast, plan, and grow sustainably

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Utilizing Email Newsletters Effectively and Stop Living in Constant Creation - Back Pocket Insights[Ep. 345]

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Most entrepreneurs overcomplicate two things that don’t need to be complicated: email marketing and creating new offers. You either freeze because you don’t know what to send in a newsletter… or you stay busy building something new instead of selling what you already have. Both feel productive. Neither necessarily move the needle.

In this special episode pulled from the private Back Pocket Insights podcast, Michelle answers two powerful questions from the community: What should I send in a newsletter? And how do I stop getting stuck in creation mode? She breaks down how to think about email marketing strategically instead of formulaically, how to position your newsletter inside your sales pipeline, and why selling before creating is often the smarter move for service-based business owners.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you simplify your email marketing strategy and stop hiding in busywork that feels safe but doesn’t generate revenue.

You’ll learn:

How to decide what to include in your newsletter without overthinking it
Why positioning and intention matter more than format in email marketing
How to use storytelling, value, and sales together effectively
Why constant creation can become a comfort zone that stalls growth
When to pre-sell an offer instead of spending weeks building it

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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CEO Mindset vs Operator Mode: How Service-Based Business Owners Can Break Free [Ep. 344]

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Most service based business owners think becoming a CEO happens later. After a team. After more revenue. After things feel more “legit.” But that belief is exactly what keeps you stuck in constant doing mode instead of real growth. You don’t become a CEO someday. You decide to lead like one now.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down the critical shift from operator to CEO and why it has nothing to do with titles, team size, or revenue milestones. She explains how being great at your craft is not the same as owning and leading a business, why staying in doer mode limits growth, and how simple CEO level decisions create clarity, sustainability, and momentum even if you’re a party of one.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop identifying only as the service provider and start leading your business with intention and authority.

You’ll learn:

The real difference between operator mode and CEO thinking
Why being busy and productive doesn’t equal business growth
How to make decisions based on facts instead of urgency
What CEOs actually do and why you don’t need a team to be one
How stepping into leadership creates clarity, profit, and sustainability

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

The Truth Behind $30K Launch Claims: What Service-Based Business Owners Need to Know [Ep. 343]

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If you’ve ever scrolled social media and immediately felt behind because someone had a “$30K day” or a “$15K launch,” this episode is for you. The online space is full of inflated numbers, half truths, and marketing tactics that trigger comparison and pressure instead of clarity. And honestly? It’s messing with how service based business owners think about money, growth, and success.

In this spicy “New York Michelle” episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle calls out deceptive and unethical marketing practices around money and launches. She breaks down what those big revenue claims actually mean behind the scenes, why partial truths are still misleading, and how these tactics distort expectations for small business owners. This is a reality check about profit, capacity, pricing, and what sustainable growth actually looks like in an online business.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop comparing yourself to exaggerated success stories and start making grounded, informed decisions about your own business.

You’ll learn:

What “$30K days” and “big launches” usually look like behind the scenes
Why partial truths in marketing are still unethical
How payment plans, delivery timelines, and expenses impact real revenue
Why comparison fueled marketing wrecks confidence and nervous systems
What to focus on instead of flashy numbers to build sustainable profit

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Two Common Business Strategy Mistakes: Giving Up Too Soon vs Holding On Too Long [Ep. 342]

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Most business owners are stuck in one of two painful loops. Either you give up on an idea way too fast because it feels uncomfortable… or you cling to something long past its expiration date because you’ve invested time, money, or identity into it. Both feel logical in the moment, and both quietly stall your growth.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down these two opposite but equally damaging mistakes and shows you how to spot which one you’re making. She explains why emotion driven decisions create confusion, how to use data without overcomplicating it, and how to step into CEO thinking so you can decide when to stay the course and when to let go. This is about discernment, not hustle.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you stop second guessing yourself and start making cleaner, more confident decisions in your business.

You’ll learn:

How to tell if you’re giving up on an offer or strategy too soon
When holding on too long is costing you time, money, and momentum
Why emotion based decisions feel right but lead to stuck cycles
How to define what “working” actually means before pulling the plug
How to evaluate ideas through a CEO lens instead of discomfort

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Be Your Own Best Client This Year [Ep. 341]

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Most service providers are incredible at showing up for clients but painfully inconsistent when it comes to showing up for themselves. You follow your own frameworks halfway, skip the hard parts, and wonder why things feel stalled. If you’re being honest, you’re not your best client… yet.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle shares a deeply personal shift that changed how she’s approaching her business this year: becoming her own best case study. She unpacks why being your own best client creates clarity, momentum, and confidence without obsessing over revenue goals, and how using a North Star decision filter keeps you focused on what actually moves the needle. This episode is about leadership, self-trust, and finally applying your own work the way you ask clients to apply it.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will challenge you to stop skating by and start fully committing to your own growth.

You’ll learn:

What it really means to be your own best client and case study
Why focusing on process beats obsessing over revenue goals
How a North Star creates clarity and simplifies decisions
Where you may be prioritizing everyone else over yourself
How committing to your own work naturally creates better results

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Radical Responsibility in Business: How to Own Your Results and Drive Growth [Ep. 340]

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If you want different results this year, you can’t keep blaming circumstances, clients, algorithms, or timing. Growth doesn’t come from hoping things change. It comes from owning your decisions, your follow through, and your results. Radical responsibility isn’t comfortable, but it’s the difference between staying stuck and actually moving forward.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle dives deep into what radical responsibility really means and how embodying it can completely shift your business and your life. She breaks down where entrepreneurs unknowingly give their power away, how waiting and hoping sabotages momentum, and why owning every outcome is the fastest path to clarity and growth. This is an episode you’ll want to come back to regularly as a CEO reset.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this conversation will challenge you to stop outsourcing responsibility and start leading yourself with intention.

You’ll learn:

What radical responsibility actually looks like in real life and business
Where you may be unintentionally giving your power away
How waiting, hoping, or avoiding decisions stalls growth
Why owning your results creates clarity, confidence, and momentum
How radical responsibility changes the way you lead, sell, and follow through

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

3 Strategic CEO Decisions to Make at the Start of the Year [Ep. 339]

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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January hits and suddenly everyone is shouting their goals, signing up for everything, and sprinting straight into burnout. But loud doesn’t equal strategic and busy doesn’t equal growth. If you want this year to feel different, it has to be different, starting with how you move before the chaos kicks in.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle shares three grounded CEO decisions to make at the start of the year that protect your energy, expand your capacity, and keep you focused on what actually matters. From building quietly instead of performing online, to doing the internal work required to receive bigger goals, to setting real calendar boundaries, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, get intentional, and lead your business instead of reacting to it.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you start the year with clarity, restraint, and CEO-level decision making instead of overwhelm.

You’ll learn:

Why you don’t need to build your business out loud to be successful
How capacity and safety to receive impact your ability to hit bigger goals
What subconscious and somatic work has to do with business growth
Why saying yes to everything kills momentum and clarity
How to protect your calendar so there’s room for clients, creativity, and life

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Links referenced in this episode:

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Multiple Streams of Income for Service-Based Business Owners: How to Diversify Revenue [Ep. 338]

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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The online space loves to scream that you should narrow your focus, stick to one offer, and scale it to the moon. But for many service providers, that advice feels suffocating. You’re multi-passionate, capable of more than one thing, and honestly… relying on a single income stream is exactly why so many solopreneurs feel stressed and trapped. You don’t have to build your entire financial future on one slice of your business.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle unpacks the real meaning of diversifying your income and why it matters more than ever for small business owners. She shares examples from her own business, her clients, and even big-name entrepreneurs to show how multiple revenue streams can stabilize your income, honor your strengths, and support your bigger life goals. This isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about building an intentional ecosystem that fits who you are and how you want to live.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you see new possibilities for earning money without burning out or abandoning what you’ve already built.

You’ll learn:

What “diversifying your income” really means beyond just creating more offers
Why relying on one revenue stream increases risk and stress
How unrelated income streams can support your bigger vision and life goals
Why it’s normal to crave work outside the online space (and how to explore it strategically)
How to map out your own “pie” and decide what each income stream contributes

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

---------------------------------------------------------------

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

The Three Pillars of Business Growth: Offers, Leads, and Sales for Service Providers [Ep. 337]

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If your business feels chaotic, heavy, or like you’re doing all the things with nothing to show for it, you’re not alone. Most service providers are drowning in busywork, tweaking offers nonstop, building complicated funnels, and chasing every new strategy… all while ignoring the only things that actually move the needle. The overwhelm isn’t because your business is broken. It’s because it’s overcomplicated.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle cuts through the noise and breaks your business down to the three elements that determine whether you grow or stay stuck: aligned offers, intentional lead generation, and a simple sales process. She explains why everything else is distraction, how to identify what’s draining your time, and how to get back to doing the work that actually brings clients in the door. If you’ve been spinning your wheels, this episode will feel like a deep exhale.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, you’ll walk away with a clearer, simpler roadmap for sustainable growth.

You’ll learn:

The only three things that truly matter for business growth
Why complex funnels, constant tweaking, and endless content don’t fix sales problems
How to identify what’s working, what isn’t, and what to eliminate
The simplest way to create an aligned offer, attract leads, and convert clients
Why simplification builds momentum faster than any new strategy

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Why Your Follow-Up Isn’t Working: The Lead Nurture Mistakes Costing You Sales [Ep. 336]

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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So many entrepreneurs blur the line between follow up and nurturing, and it’s costing them sales, relationships, and clarity. When you treat everyone like a lead or everyone like a long-term nurture, you end up either pushing too hard or never asking for the sale at all. Most service providers are overcomplicating this simply because they don’t have a clear sales process or pipeline in place.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down the exact difference between follow up and nurture, how to know which one someone belongs in, and why mixing the two is the fastest way to tank conversions. She explains the role of timing, buying signals, relationship building, and direct outreach, and gives practical examples of what each should look like inside your customized sales process. This episode is your roadmap for cleaner communication, stronger relationships, and more consistent sales.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this conversation will help you take the confusion out of your pipeline so you can finally follow up with confidence and nurture with intention.

You’ll learn:

The clear difference between a follow up and a nurture touch point
How to know exactly which bucket a contact belongs in
Why combining nurture and follow up kills conversions
What effective follow up looks like without being salesy
How to build a relationship through nurture without losing the sale
Why a defined sales process makes every outreach easier

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Strategic Thinking vs. AI Validation: How to Make Better Business Decisions [Ep. 335]

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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There’s a shift happening in the online space that no one really wants to talk about. We’ve entered a full-blown validation culture where everyone is seeking agreement, instant reassurance, and quick answers… and losing the ability to think strategically. With social media echo chambers and AI giving everyone a nonstop “Absolutely, you’re right,” business owners are falling into copycat thinking and cookie cutter decisions that keep them stuck.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down how this craving for external validation is killing creativity, discernment, and actual business strategy. She explains how to use tools like AI without outsourcing your decision-making, how to strengthen your critical thinking skills, and why seeking agreement feels good in the moment but rarely produces the results you want. This is a wake-up call for entrepreneurs who want to lead with clarity instead of consensus.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you step out of validation mode and back into grounded, strategic leadership.

You’ll learn:

How validation culture is quietly damaging your growth
Why constantly being agreed with leads to copycat ideas and mediocre results
How to use AI as a strategic partner instead of a permission slip
What discernment actually looks like in day-to-day decision-making
How to challenge your own thinking so you stop playing small

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Links referenced in this episode:

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

How to Turn Masterclasses and Workshops into Paying Clients [Ep. 334]

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Every few months the online space starts shouting that masterclasses, workshops, and conversion events are “dead.” But let’s get real. They’re not dead. They’re simply being done wrong. When positioned well and designed with actual connection in mind, conversion events are still one of the most powerful strategies for service-based business owners.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down exactly why these events continue to work and what’s actually changed in how people want to experience them. She digs into positioning, pipeline alignment, learning styles, timing, free vs paid options, and the one mistake that kills conversions faster than anything else. If you want your next masterclass, challenge, or workshop to actually lead to clients, this episode shows you how to structure it so people trust you, feel supported, and naturally take the next step.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you run conversion events that build authority, deepen relationships, and create real sales without the spammy webinar vibes.

You’ll learn:

Why conversion events still work and aren’t going anywhere
How to position your event in the right place in your sales pipeline
Why cold audiences need smaller next steps (and warm audiences don’t)
How to choose between a free event, low-ticket workshop, or multi-day challenge
The key elements that make people actually convert, not just consume

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Why You Shouldn't Ghost Your Audience in December [Ep. 333]

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Every year when November hits, the same narrative pops up in the online space: “No one’s buying right now” or “I’ll wait until January.” And honestly, that mindset is exactly why so many service providers start Q1 playing catch up. Because visibility now is what gets you remembered later. The ones who keep showing up while everyone else goes quiet are the ones who sign clients in January.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down how to stay visible during the holiday slowdown without burning out or living online. She explains how buyers are actually behaving during November and December, why people are in research and planning mode, and what you can do to stay top of mind while still honoring your need for rest. This is practical, strategic visibility for service-based entrepreneurs who want momentum, not burnout.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode gives you a simple plan to stay consistent, nurture warm leads, and build trust that converts in Q1.

You’ll learn:

Why people are still buying (even if they’re not checking out today)
How to stay visible without posting nonstop or attending every event
The easiest ways to repurpose your best content during the holidays
How to nurture warm leads so they’re ready to say yes in January
Why clarity on your goals makes visibility easier and far less exhausting

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Links mentioned:

Reflect. Refocus. Reignite.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Do Your Research: How to Avoid Investments You'll Regret [Ep. 332]

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Let’s talk about something that could save you thousands of dollars and hours of frustration: doing your research before you invest. Too many service providers are making impulsive business decisions based on hype, FOMO, or what looks popular online, and then wonder why the experience doesn’t match the promise.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle shares an unfiltered message about taking radical responsibility for your investments. From masterminds and memberships to courses and collaborations, she breaks down why “cart closing soon” urgency tactics can cloud your judgment, how to spot red flags, and what it really means to make decisions like a CEO. This episode is your wake-up call to slow down, ask questions, and trust your gut.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you move from impulsive decisions to intentional strategy so you can protect your time, energy, and money.

You’ll learn:

Why “open cart” and “limited time” offers aren’t always what they seem
How to research programs and communities before you invest
The questions to ask past members or clients for real feedback
How to recognize when timing—not the offer—is the problem
Why radical responsibility is the foundation of smart business growth

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Links referenced in this episode:

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Email Marketing — Rant + Real Strategy [Ep. 331]

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Let’s talk about one of the most misunderstood tools in online business: email marketing. Somewhere along the way, service providers started treating emails like spam instead of strategy, and it’s driving Michelle absolutely crazy. Because here’s the truth: email isn’t the enemy. Bad strategy is.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle dives into why small business owners need to stop hating on email and start using it with purpose. She breaks down how to use your list to build genuine relationships, nurture leads, and convert clients, all without being spammy. You’ll hear the difference between poor email practices and powerful communication that actually connects.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you rethink how you use email as one of your most valuable business growth tools.

You’ll learn:

Why email marketing still works (and why it’s not “dead”)
The real reason people get frustrated with inbox overload
How to ethically and legally grow your list with consent
What to include in a high-converting welcome sequence
How to create value-driven emails that people want to open

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Why Year-End Reflection and Planning Are Non-Negotiable [Ep. 330]

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Every December, entrepreneurs say they’ll “figure it out after the holidays.” But let’s be honest, waiting until January to plan your next move keeps you stuck in the same cycle year after year. If nothing changes, nothing changes. Reflection and strategic planning aren’t optional if you’re serious about growth: they’re leadership decisions.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle shares why the most successful service-based business owners treat year-end reflection as a non-negotiable. She dives into why assumptions and emotions can’t drive your strategy, how to analyze what’s really working, and why having outside perspective is key to creating a plan that actually delivers results. You’ll also get a peek into her annual Reflect, Refocus, Reignite planning experience and how it transforms her clients’ revenue and clarity every year.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you shift from reactive hustle to intentional CEO thinking, so you can enter 2026 with clarity, focus, and a plan that works.

You’ll learn:

Why reflection and planning aren’t optional for real business growth.
How to stop building your business on emotions and assumptions.
The role of data and analysis in creating a sustainable strategy.
Why doing planning with others accelerates insight and results.
How to create space for creativity and smarter decision-making.

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Links referenced in this episode:

Create a focused vision for 2026 at Reflect. Refocus. Reignite.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Why It’s Easier to Do Client Work Than Your Own Business [Ep. 329]

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Why is it so easy to meet every client deadline, but nearly impossible to update your own website, write your own copy, or finish your offers? If you’ve ever wondered why you’ll go above and beyond for clients but constantly push your own business tasks to the back burner, you’re not alone. It’s not laziness, it’s psychology and accountability at play.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle wraps up her ADHD Awareness Month series by breaking down why service-based entrepreneurs struggle to prioritize their own business growth. She shares how external accountability, deadlines, and dopamine influence your motivation, and what to do when your own work always seems to come last. You’ll learn how to treat your business like your best client and finally follow through on your own goals.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will help you shift from guilt and avoidance to consistency and follow-through, without burning out or feeling like you’re failing yourself.

You’ll learn:

Why external accountability makes it easier to deliver for clients than for yourself
How lack of personal deadlines feeds procrastination and inconsistency
Simple strategies to treat your business like a client (and actually meet your own deadlines)
How to use reward systems and accountability partners to stay on track
Why your subconscious stops believing you, and how to rebuild self-trust through follow-through

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

ADHD, Energy, and Focus Swings in Business [Ep. 328]

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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You know those days when you can knock out a week’s worth of work in one sitting, only to crash the next day and barely open your laptop? That’s not inconsistency or laziness. It’s the ADHD productivity cycle of hyperfocus and distraction, and it can send even the most driven entrepreneurs on a roller coaster of burnout, guilt, and chaos.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down the truth about hyperfocus and the inevitable crash that follows. She shares practical strategies to manage your energy, work with your brain, and build a sustainable rhythm for consistent business growth. If you’ve ever felt like you’re either “all in” or “completely checked out,” this episode will help you create structure without stifling your flow.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur, you’ll learn how to stop fighting your natural cycles and start planning your business around your energy, so you can grow without burning out.

You’ll learn:

Why “inconsistency” is really an energy management issue, not a character flaw
How to identify your hyperfocus windows and track your energy patterns
The importance of building in recovery time to avoid burnout after big projects or launches
Simple ways to use energy mapping and calendar boundaries to stay productive and balanced
How sustainable growth depends on energy stability, not constant hustle

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

__________________________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

Why ADHD Entrepreneurs Underestimate Everything: The Time Blindness Trap [Ep. 327]

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

_________________________________________________________

You know that “it’ll only take 15 minutes” lie we all tell ourselves? The one that somehow turns into two hours and a mountain of frustration? That’s time blindness, and it’s one of the biggest culprits behind overwhelm, inconsistency, and constant “playing catch up” for ADHD entrepreneurs and service providers.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle breaks down what time blindness really is, why it wreaks havoc on your productivity and planning, and how to create structure that actually supports your brain. You’ll hear practical, real-world strategies to help you stop running late, overbooking yourself, and bottlenecking your own business growth, without feeling boxed in.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur who’s tired of feeling behind and beating yourself up for it, this episode helps you move from frustration to focus and from chaos to clarity with realistic, actionable systems that work with your brain, not against it.

You’ll learn:

What time blindness really means for ADHD and neurodivergent entrepreneurs
How to stop underestimating how long tasks will take
Why time blindness can break client trust and create business bottlenecks
Practical ways to double or triple your time estimates and regain breathing room
How to use timers, task tracking, and reverse engineering to plan smarter

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Links Mentioned:

Resource: ADD.org

__________________________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

About the Host:

How Rejection Sensitivity Holds ADHD Entrepreneurs Back [Ep 326]

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

The Missing Piece was designed specifically for those with ADHD. If you are in a season of "stuck" and ready to break through it. 12 weeks of support for only $600! Check it out today!

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For ADHD entrepreneurs, rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) can quietly sabotage your business. It’s not laziness, it’s the way your brain processes rejection. Even perceived rejection (like no response to a DM) can feel like a gut punch, leading to over-delivering, procrastinating, or quitting too soon.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, copywriter, designer, VA, or service provider navigating ADHD, this episode will help you understand RSD and build workarounds that keep your business moving.

You’ll learn:

What RSD is and why it affects nearly every ADHD entrepreneur
How it shows up in business (avoiding follow-up, over-delivering, delaying launches)
The stories RSD creates that keep you stuck
Practical workarounds to neutralize rejection and keep going

This is the real truth about growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who need strategies that work with their brains, not against them.

_________________________________________________________

About the Host:

_________________________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Research Links:

Neurodivergent Insights

Simply Psychology

The Times

Why We’re Talking ADHD & Business This Month [Ep. 325]

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Too many entrepreneurs think they’re “lazy” or “broken” when they can’t follow rigid, step-by-step strategies. But here’s the truth - if you’ve got ADHD tendencies (diagnosed or not), those strategies simply weren’t built for your brain. And yet when we design ADHD-friendly systems? Convergent thinkers benefit too.

In this episode, I’m kicking off a special ADHD Awareness Month series by sharing why I’m dedicating October to this conversation, what my research uncovered from ADHD entrepreneurs, and how these struggles show up in business.

Whether you’re a service provider, coach, consultant, or creative, diagnosed with ADHD or not, you’ll hear yourself in these stories. Because at the end of the day, these aren’t just ADHD struggles. They’re entrepreneurial struggles.

You’ll Learn:

Why ADHD-friendly strategies often work better for all entrepreneurs
What my research revealed about ADHD struggles in business (time blindness, energy swings, demand avoidance, idea overload, and more)
How menopause and a dysregulated nervous system can intensify ADHD symptoms for women in business
Why building flexible structures creates clarity, focus, and results for both divergent and convergent thinkers

This is the real truth about business growth - when you create systems that work for your brain, you remove the shame and finally build momentum.

The Dangerous Online Advice Keeping Entrepreneurs Spinning Their Wheels [Ep. 324]

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

The online space is full of bold, sweeping statements that do more harm than good, and if you’re a service-based entrepreneur, they can send you down rabbit holes that leave you stuck, spinning, and questioning everything.

In this episode I break down the misleading advice floating around online and share the real truth about what actually grows your business. From over-delivering being labeled as “people pleasing,” to the $10K coach trap, to the myth that sales copy is the most important business skill, you’ll hear why these blanket statements are dangerous and what you should focus on instead.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, OBM, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur who’s tired of bad advice keeping you stuck, this episode will help you cut through the noise and stay focused on what really drives results.

You’ll learn:

Why over-delivering isn’t always people pleasing (and why it can actually build loyalty)
The toxic pricing culture in the coaching industry that leaves service providers undervalued
Why sales copy is NOT the most important skill—and what matters more for sustainable growth
How to stop chasing cookie-cutter advice and trust your own strategic path

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers who crave clarity, structure, and results without falling for every trend online.

Pivot or Persevere? Let Data Make the Decision [Ep. 323]

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

The Missing Piece 12 week program is ready and waiting for you! Sign up today!

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Too many entrepreneurs pivot too soon, out of boredom, discouragement, or because a launch feels hard. The truth is, most offers don’t fail because they’re bad. They fail because they weren’t given enough time, consistency, or strategy.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, done-for-you expert, VA, OBM, or ADHD entrepreneur, this episode will show you how to stop pivoting out of emotion and start making data-driven decisions that grow your business.

You’ll learn:

Why pivoting without proof wastes momentum
The 3 data points you need to track before making changes
How to refine and repackage instead of starting over
Why objections are opportunities, not failures

This is the real truth about building offers that last, especially for service providers ready to grow beyond stop-and-start cycles.

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🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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About the Host:

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Why You Need Momentum, Not Motivation [Ep. 322]

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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So many service providers fall into the trap of waiting for motivation, believing once they “feel ready,” they’ll finally take action. But the truth is, motivation isn’t what gets you moving—it’s what shows up after you start. And if you’re constantly waiting for motivation, you’re really just staying stuck in fear of failure, fear of success, or fear of judgment.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, online business manager, VA, designer, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur spinning in procrastination and demand avoidance, this episode is for you.

You’ll learn:

Why “I’m not motivated” is really fear in disguise
How micro-actions build momentum that fuels motivation
The ADHD connection between procrastination, demand avoidance, and “waiting until the last minute”
How clarity and accountability break the cycle of stuck

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for service providers who need structure and momentum more than motivation.

Links Mentioned:

Fear Of Success EFT Tapping Video

Ep. 321: Why More Time is Killing Your Productivity

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About the Host:

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
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Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
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Why More Time is Killing Your Productivity [Ep 321]

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If you’ve ever said, “I just need more time to get everything done”...this episode will shift your perspective. The truth is, your productivity problem isn’t too little time, it’s too much of it. Long days invite distraction, procrastination, and busywork. But when your hours are limited, like the day before vacation or during nap time, you suddenly become laser-focused and insanely productive.

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle DeNio shares why constraint creates clarity, how boundaries fuel better results, and why limiting your work hours can actually help you grow faster. You’ll hear real client stories, practical strategies, and simple experiments you can try right now to cut the fluff and focus on what really moves the needle.

Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or service-based entrepreneur working toward consistent $10K months and beyond, these strategies will help you reclaim your time, increase profitability, and finally stop spinning your wheels.

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About the Host:

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
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Stop Chasing Easy: What Business Growth Actually Looks Like [Ep. 320]

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

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So many service providers are chasing easy, thinking it’ll all finally click once they hit $10K months, hire a VA, or automate a few systems. But here’s the truth: business doesn’t get easier… it gets clearer. In this episode, I break down the dangerous myth of “easy,” what true ease actually looks like, and why high-level coaches, consultants, and creatives still work hard, just differently.

Whether you’re a done-for-you expert, graphic designer, VA, online business manager, copywriter, or ADHD entrepreneur trying to build a business that flows, this one’s for you.

You’ll learn:

Why automations shift what you do, but don’t remove the need to lead
What “ease” actually means (hint: it’s not less work)
Where to look if everything feels heavy and unclear
The key mindset shift that creates momentum

This is the real truth about business growth, especially for neurodivergent service providers navigating demand avoidance, overthinking, and inconsistent energy.

Related Episodes:

The Real Truth About 6 Figures (It’s Not What You Think) [Ep. 300]

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

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About the Host:

Why Demand Avoidance Hits ADHD Entrepreneurs So Hard [Ep 319]

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

FVA is your go to program if you are a business owner ready to scale to the next level. You will receive expert guidance, personalized coaching, a supportive community without the overwhelm and burnout. Just focus and direction to scale your business.

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If you’re a service provider, coach, consultant, freelancer, or creative entrepreneur with ADHD (or other forms of neurodivergence), you’ve probably asked yourself:

"Why can’t I just get this done?"

Whether it's following up with leads, posting on social, sending the invoice, or even responding to a client email—some days your brain just says… nope. This episode is about what’s really going on underneath that resistance: demand avoidance.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn:

What demand avoidance actually is (and why it’s not a mindset problem)
How it shows up in business for ADHD entrepreneurs
Why it quietly costs you time, energy, and sales
How to work with your brain instead of shaming yourself into action
Simple, practical strategies to reduce resistance and create structure with fluidity

Whether you’ve been officially diagnosed or you just feel this deeply, this conversation will help you move with more awareness and ease in your business—without trying to force yourself into a system that doesn’t fit.

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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About the Host:

Sales, Visibility, & Operation: Seasons in Business [Ep. 318]

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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If you’re a service provider, coach, consultant, freelancer, or creative running a done-for-you or done-with-you business, you’ve probably tried to be in sales mode, marketing mode, and system-building mode all at once.

And if you're neurodivergent or ADHD, that push-pull pressure to do everything now can feel paralyzing.

In this episode, I break down the three core business seasons: Sales, Visibility, and Operations and show you how to identify which one you’re in so you can stop spreading yourself thin and start making real progress.

You’ll learn how to build momentum without burnout by letting each season fuel the next, and how to plan your business focus around your energy, your goals, and the natural rhythms of your industry.

If you're tired of trying to "balance it all" and ready for a smarter, more sustainable way to grow, this episode will give you the clarity and permission you've been craving.

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🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

3 Common Sales Mistakes That Give Your Clients an Easy Out [Ep. 317]

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 06:00:00 -0400

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If you're a service provider, coach, consultant, freelancer, or creative professional offering done-for-you or done-with-you services, you might be unintentionally sabotaging your own sales process.

In this episode, I break down three small but common mistakes that can quietly derail your conversions:

Sending a proposal without guidance or follow-up
Leading with a small offer and hoping to upsell
Giving too many options and overwhelming the buyer

These missteps often create space for second-guessing, overthinking, or avoidance, especially with neurodivergent clients or those prone to decision fatigue. If you’ve ever had a promising lead ghost you, or wondered why your bigger offers aren’t converting, this episode will help you identify and fix the cracks in your sales process.

This one’s all about tightening up your buyer journey, owning your expertise, and leading with clarity, so you stop giving people an easy out.

How to Prioritize Your Ideas for Next Level Business Growth [Ep. 316]

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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If you're a neurodivergent or ADHD service provider, coach, consultant, freelancer, or creative pro running a done-for-you or done-with-you business, you know what it’s like to have a million ideas swirling around at once. Offers. Content. Collaborations. Systems. It's exciting—until it becomes paralyzing.

In this episode, I'm giving you a clear, ADHD-friendly 6-step process to brain dump your ideas, filter them against your goals, and actually choose your next best move.

We’ll talk about how to sort the swirl in your head, ask the right questions to see what truly matters, and create a simple, doable plan, without getting lost in overthinking or shiny-object syndrome.

If you want a calm, strategic approach that still honors your creativity, this is for you.

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🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

How to Grow When You Don’t Know What You Need Next [Ep. 315]

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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For service providers, coaches, consultants, freelancers, and creative professionals running done-for-you or done-with-you businesses—this one’s for you.

Ever hit that frustrating plateau where business is fine, but it feels stagnant? You're busy but not moving forward. You know you're ready for more, but you can’t see what actually needs to change.

In this episode, I’m breaking down how to recognize the stagnant growth stage, avoid the trap of chasing random strategies, and actually figure out what’s holding you back. We’ll look at common growth bottlenecks, like lead generation, sales process, delivery capacity, offer clarity, mindset, and data, and give you clear self-audit questions to find your true growth area.

If you want to stop spinning and start making real progress toward sustainable, profitable growth, tune in.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Stop Chasing New Clients: How to Boost Profits with Client Retention [Ep 314]

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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If you're a service provider, coach, consultant, freelancer, designer, or creative running a done-for-you or done-with-you business, listen up: constantly chasing new clients is draining your time, money, and energy.

In this episode, we dig into why client retention is the overlooked key to sustainable, profitable growth. You'll learn the true cost of always hunting for new clients, how to boost lifetime value, build a repeatable client experience, and set up upsells, continuity offers, and referral systems that keep your pipeline full, without endless marketing hustle.

If you're ready to move from unpredictable, one-off projects to a stable, growing business that clients want to stay with, this episode gives you the strategy you need.

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Planning for Fall During Summer's Slower Days [ Ep 313]

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Summer often means slower sales and distracted clients for service providers, coaches, consultants, freelancers, and creative professionals. But instead of panicking or checking out, what if you used this season strategically?

In this episode, I share why summer is actually your unfair advantage if you know how to use it. We'll talk about embracing the natural slowdown instead of fighting it, staying connected with your audience through light-touch, authentic nurturing, and practical ways to prepare your business for the busy fall season.

This is for done-for-you and done-with-you service providers ready to turn seasonal dips into planning time, marketing prep, and client experience upgrades. Whether you're a coach refining your offer, a consultant mapping your sales goals, or a freelancer updating onboarding systems, you'll get clear, practical strategies to make summer work for you.

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

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Related Episodes:

Business Through the Summer: Planning Tips and Strategies

Surviving Q2: The Roller Coaster Continues! [Ep 312]

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If you're a service provider, coach, consultant, freelancer, or creative running a done-for-you or done-with-you business, this one's for you. In this raw, honest episode, I share the real behind-the-scenes of Q2 2025: the financial realities, client retention strategies, new offers I tested, and what’s working (and not) in an unpredictable market.

We talk about the importance of reflection, tweaking your business model, embracing experimentation, and finding the balance between sustainability and joy—even when sales cycles shift or launches underperform. I also share what's working right now in the service space: small paid communities, hybrid group + 1:1 offers, and visibility strategies that go beyond the online bubble.

If you're tired of curated “highlight reels” and want real talk about building and growing a sustainable service business in today’s economy, tune in.

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

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Links Mentioned:

4 on 4 Networking Chats

Behind the Curtain: My Q1 Rollercoaster Ride [Ep. 298]

3 things that actually grow your business (and what’s just a distraction)[Ep. 311]

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Feeling like your business is just a tangled web of chaos? Well, let’s cut through the noise! Today, we're diving into the magic of simplification.

Spoiler alert: there are only three things you need to focus on to actually move the needle—aligned offers, lead generation, and converting those leads into clients.

That’s right, all those fancy systems and content plans might just be distractions keeping you busy but not productive.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Need Cash Fast? Here’s How to Use Back Pocket Offers! [Ep. 310]

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Today, we're diving into the magic of back pocket offers...cash injection gems you pull out of your back pocket when your revenue needs a little boost.

These aren't your run-of-the-mill launches or lengthy email sequences; we’re talking quick, easy-to-execute offers that can swoop in when you're at capacity or facing a slow season.

Think upsells, downsells, or even special cohorts that you can keep tucked away for when the cash flow gets a bit tight.

It's all about creating flexibility in your business without getting bogged down in over-creation.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Why Clients Aren't Falling Into Your Lap [Ep 309]

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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If you're struggling to land clients, it's not because you're bad at what you do, it's because you're playing the waiting game, and let's be real, that's a losing strategy.

We dive into some tough love today, reminding you that getting clients is your job, and it’s about showing up every single day. We chat about the pitfalls of waiting for referrals and how you can't just sit back and hope someone remembers you. Instead, we’ll spill the secrets on how to take action, follow up like a champ, and keep that conversation rolling.

Why Strategy Isn’t the Answer (If You’re Not Thinking Strategically)[Ep. 308]

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0400

You heard it first!! Back Pocket Insights is now LIVE!

🎧 Want more unfiltered strategy and real-time business insight?

Check out Back Pocket Insights, my private podcast community with short, story-driven episodes pulled straight from everyday life and client conversations.

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Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: Strategy isn’t the secret sauce to success, it's strategic thinking that really gets the needle moving!

In today's, we dive into why simply following the latest trends or strategies can be a total trap. Instead of just ticking off boxes on a checklist, it’s all about how you apply and adapt those strategies to fit your unique biz situation.

It's all about asking the right questions and making intentional decisions that actually resonate with your goals. So, if you’re tired of hopping from one shiny strategy to the next without seeing results, we're about to dive into the magic of strategic thinking!

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Business GETS to be FUN!!! [Ep 307]

Wed, 28 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Summer Sprint starts June 2nd. Sign up today!

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Today, we're diving into that funky feeling of uncertainty that's got everyone asking, "Is this really what I want to be doing?" I mean, seriously, it’s like a collective existential crisis out there! We’re chatting about how, in the wild world of business, it’s crucial to not just stay focused, but to also have a blast while doing it. I’ll share my own journey of reflection and how I’ve realized that business should be fun, not just a grind. So, if you’re feeling stuck or like you’re in a rut, let's explore how to bring the joy back into what we do, and trust me, it’s all about meeting people where they’re at and having a good time while we’re at it! Buckle up, it’s going to be a spicy one!

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

ADHD and Executive Dysfunction: Work with Your Brain, Not Against It! [Ep. 306]

Wed, 21 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Takeaways:

Executive dysfunction can make it tough to focus and finish tasks, but understanding it is key.
Most entrepreneurs deal with some level of executive dysfunction, so you're definitely not alone in this!
Breaking big tasks into tiny steps is crucial for tackling overwhelming projects and avoiding shutdowns.
Creating a routine that works with your brain's natural rhythms can help manage executive dysfunction effectively.
It's okay to ask for help and lean on your support system when navigating these challenges.
Remember, managing executive dysfunction doesn't make you less capable; it just means your brain works differently.

Links referenced in this episode:

The Trap of Plan B: How It’s Holding You Back [Ep 305]

Wed, 14 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Learn more about the Focused Visionary Accelerator in Episode 302

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Ever had that moment where you're like, 'What if I just gave up and went back to my day job?' Yeah, me too!

In this episode, we explore the idea that having a Plan B can actually keep us from fully investing in Plan A. Plan B often leads to self-sabotage, as it's easy to dip back into old safety nets instead of pushing forward.

We reflect on how fear of failure and success can creep in, causing us to hesitate and hold back.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Why We Crave Structure but Resist It [Ep 304]

Wed, 07 May 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Learn more about the Focused Visionary Accelerator in Episode 302

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Structure is a funny thing, right? We all say we want it, but the second we start to implement it, it feels like a straightjacket.

In this episode, I get real about my own struggles with structure and how it can feel like a battle between our desire for freedom and the accountability that comes with having a plan. We reflect on the energy drain that comes from an unstructured business, where everything feels urgent and nothing gets done efficiently.

The key takeaway? Structure doesn’t have to mean rigidity.

Let’s find out how we can create a loose framework that allows for both accountability and creativity, helping our businesses thrive without feeling like we’re trapped.

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
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Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Growth Strategy Quiz?"

Why Hiring Help Isn't Always the Answer to Business Growth [Ep. 303]

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Want to learn more about FVA? Listen to Episode 302 for a Behind The Scenes deep dive!

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Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of stepping into that oh-so-fancy CEO role, and spoiler alert: hiring help isn't the magic bullet you think it is!

We’re here to chat about why pulling the trigger on hiring too soon can actually backfire on you.

So many folks jump to the conclusion that being a CEO means just delegating tasks, but let’s be real, if you’re not ready to lead, hiring just becomes a fancy way to pay for busywork.

We’ll break down what it truly means to embrace that CEO mindset, focusing on clarity, systems, and making data-driven decisions.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

{Offer Breakdown Episode} Focused Visionary Accelerator [Ep. 302]

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Today's chat is all about diving deep into the Focused Visionary Accelerator and its eight core foundations, basically, your roadmap to business growth and scaling!

We're peeling back the curtain, no gatekeeping here!

Whether you’re a newbie who just took the “Where’s the Gap in Your Business Strategy?” quiz or a seasoned listener who hasn’t yet taken the plunge, this behind the scenes is for everyone.

We’re not just talking theory; we’re sharing actionable steps and golden nuggets to help you fill those gaps and get your business on the fast track to growth.

So, grab your worksheets and a pen, it's time to roll up our sleeves and get to work!

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Focus Over Fear: Navigating the Chaos of Today's Market [Ep 301]

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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There's a whole lot of chaos and uncertainty swirling around these days, and in this episode, we're diving deep into why staying focused is the real power move.

Instead of panicking and making those knee-jerk decisions that can lead to a wild goose chase, we’re chatting about the importance of strategic clarity during these tumultuous times.

I’ll share my own close call with the temptation to slash prices and pivot offers just because the market feels shaky.

Guess what? It’s all about keeping your eye on the prize and not letting fear dictate your moves!

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

The Real Truth About 6 Figures (It’s Not What You Think) [Ep. 300]

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Let’s be real: hitting six figures could mean $100,000 or a whopping $999,000, and those numbers come with entirely different business vibes and strategies.

I get it; we all want that six-figure badge of honor, but today we’re breaking down the reality behind it, including why $100K might not be the safety blanket we think it is. Spoiler alert: it’s all about the journey of sustainable growth, not just chasing after the next shiny number in the sky.

Takeaways:

Chasing six figures is all the rage, but there's a huge difference between hitting $100k and $999k in business.
The journey to multiple six figures often gets misunderstood; it's not just about reaching a number but understanding what that number means for your business.
Hustle can get you to six figures, but to scale beyond that, you need a solid strategy that aligns with where you want to go.
Not everyone wants to hit seven figures, and that's perfectly fine—focus on what makes sense for your business and lifestyle.

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Stop Trying to Scale a Business That’s Still Growing [Ep. 299]

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Scaling your business is a hot topic, but let’s face it, most business owners aren’t ready to hop on that train yet.

Today, we’re diving deep into the difference between growth and scaling, and spoiler alert: if your revenue feels like a rollercoaster and client delivery is a bit of a hot mess, you’re still in growth mode, and that’s totally OK!

We’ll break down why trying to scale too early can lead to burnout and could even tank your profits.

Takeaways:

Scaling too soon can cause more harm than good, leading to business collapse.
The difference between growth and scaling is crucial for sustainable success in business.
It's totally okay to be in the growth stage, so don't rush into scaling just yet.
Predictable revenue and a solid foundation are essential before considering any scaling actions.

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Have questions or need some clarity - Book a FREE Clarity and Action Session!

30 Minutes and guaranteed to walk away with an immediate action step you can take to move your business!

Behind the Curtain: My Q1 Rollercoaster Ride [Ep. 298]

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Want the scoop on my Q1?

Let’s just say it wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, think more hibernation vibes with a dash of playing small. I’m diving deep into the truth behind those highs and lows, and how I’m shaking off the cobwebs.

If you've ever felt like you're just coasting instead of really thriving, trust me, you're not alone! So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s chat about breaking out of that comfort zone and stepping into the spotlight. It’s time to ditch the invisibility cloak and embrace the big, bold versions of ourselves!

Connect with me on Substack

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Why knowing your business season is crucial for growth [Ep. 297]

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Feeling a bit overwhelmed in your business?

We’ve all been there, and it might just be because you’re battling the wrong season! Just like nature, businesses have their own cycles, and trying to juggle growth, launches, and rebuilding all at once is a recipe for chaos. In this chat, we're diving into how to pinpoint the season your business is in so you can align your focus and plan like a pro.

No more scrambling! We’ll help you figure out if it’s time to sell, create, or simply take a breather.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Doubt: The Sneaky Saboteur of Your Business [Ep. 296]

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Doubt is sneaky! It creeps into our lives and businesses, often disguising itself as procrastination or the infamous "I'll wait until I'm ready" excuse.

In this episode, we dive deep into how doubt holds us back from taking action and making decisions.

I share a personal story about my own struggles with self-doubt, especially when it comes to stepping into rooms where I feel like I don’t belong. But here’s the kicker: successful people feel doubt too, but they don’t let it stop them. So, let’s chat about how we can recognize doubt, push through it, and finally say, “Heck yes, I’m ready!”

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Related Episodes:

Ep. 249: Reconnecting with Your Vision

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

How to show up unapologetically and attract your ideal clients [Ep. 295]

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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If you’ve ever held back from sharing your thoughts or expertise because you were worried about what others might think, this episode is your wake-up call.

We chat about how some folks with less skill are snagging clients simply because they’re out there making noise, while we might be overthinking our every move.

It’s time to ditch that fear of judgment and start embracing our inner CEO because guess what? Your uniqueness is what will attract the right clients!

So let’s get loud, get visible, and, most importantly, get ready to own our brilliance without holding back.

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Related Episodes & Mentions

Ep. 204: Embracing Your Unique Path and Defying the “Should” Mentality

Julie Costa Activate Membership

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Are You Talking Over Your Audience? Let’s Fix That! [Ep. 294]

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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We're diving into a sneaky little problem that might just be sabotaging your sales: you might be talking over your audience! Yep, that’s right.

If you’ve been pouring your heart into explaining your offer but still getting crickets, this episode is totally for you.

We’re breaking down why people aren't buying and it’s not because your offer lacks value; it’s likely that your audience just doesn’t get it yet.

Confused people don’t buy, right? So, let’s simplify your messaging and make sure your audience is left saying, "Whoa, I totally need this!"

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Related Episodes:

Ep 245: How to Avoid Confusing Your Audience

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Selling Without Feeling Sleezy or Salesy [Ep. 293]

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Let’s face it – sales can feel like a dirty word, right? But in this episode, we’re flipping the script! We chat about the common fears that hold us back from selling – you know, that cringe-worthy feeling of being pushy or annoying. But guess what? Selling isn’t about convincing people; it’s about helping them see the value in what you offer. Think of it as sharing a great secret with a friend! We dive deep into the mindset shifts you need to make to feel confident and authentic in your sales approach. Remember, it’s not about you – it’s about how you can help others. So, whether you’re feeling like a sales ninja or a total newbie, this episode is packed with insights that’ll change your perception of selling and help you connect better with your audience. Tune in and let’s turn that sales frown upside down!

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Related Episodes:

Ep 201: 3 Reasons Your SAles are Down

Ep. 216: Sales AND Marketing - Your Business Needs Both

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

The Three-Way Win: Leveling Up Your Collaborations [Ep. 292]

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Ready to level up your collaboration game? Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of what makes a collaboration truly work—spoiler alert: it’s all about the triple win! Yep, you heard me right—it's gotta be a win for you, a win for them, and a win for the client. We’re calling out the collab wannabes who just don’t get it, wasting time instead of creating magic together. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s chat about how to turn those collaboration dreams into a reality that benefits everyone involved. Trust me, you won’t want to miss these tips!

Why Sales Feels Hard (And How to Fix It) [Ep. 291]

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Learn Why Most Sales Plans Fail... and How to Fix it!

Most business owners struggle with sales because they’re doing too much—too many offers, too many strategies, too much second-guessing.

They don’t need a new offer.
They don’t need to work harder.
They just need a clear, focused plan.

That’s exactly what you’ll walk away with in this free workshop.

https://links.michelledenioconsulting.com/TsLB

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Sales doesn't have to be the monster under your bed! If you've ever found yourself asking, "Why is sales so freaking hard?" you're definitely not alone. Most of us are grinding away, doing all the things, yet the sales just aren’t rolling in like we thought they would. But hey, it turns out that we're often overcomplicating things and spreading ourselves way too thin. In this episode, we’re diving into the art of simplification and sharing some solid tips on how to take control of your sales activities. So, buckle up, because we’re about to turn that sales frown upside down!

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Related Episodes:

279: 3 Simple Steps to Convert Leads Into Clients

288: Why Your Audience Size Matters for Client Conversions

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

What Baking Sourdough Taught Me About Business {Friday Freestyle} [Ep. 290]

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the information out there when trying to start something new? This podcast dives into the common tendency to get stuck in the learning phase, where we consume endless content without taking action.

Using a personal experience with sourdough baking as an analogy, I emphasize the importance of picking a trusted resource and just diving in. Instead of getting bogged down by the multitude of opinions and methods, the key takeaway is to learn by doing. It's time to stop absorbing and start taking action, because the real learning happens when you roll up your sleeves and get started.

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Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Links referenced in this episode:

How to strategically use social media without burnout in your business [Ep. 289]

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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We’re diving into the wild world of social media and how it's totally okay to feel burnt out by it! Seriously, if you’ve been scrolling and feeling like it’s just a never-ending cycle of content creation, you’re not alone. We’re chatting about how to flip the script and see social media as a tool to start, continue, and amplify conversations instead of a grind to churn out posts.

Related Episodes:

Ep 267: How to avoid Burnout by Focusing on One Business Strategy

Ep. 280: 5 Non-Social Media Visibility Strategies for 2025 (or any year)

___________________________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Why Your Audience Size Matters for Client Conversion [Ep. 288]

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Are you constantly feeling frustrated because you're not hitting your client goals? Wondering why other business owners seem to convert more clients than you? This episode is your answer. Today, we're breaking down why your audience size truly matters and how understanding the game of numbers can completely shift your perspective on success. Get ready to align your expectations with reality and set yourself up for genuine business growth

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Ep 194: Accelerating Your Conversion Rate

Ep 244: Effective Launch Strategies for Creative Entrepreneurs

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Why Passing Credit Card Fees Looks Cheap {Friday Freestyle} [Ep. 287]

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

________________________________________

Does it drive you crazy when businesses pass their credit card fees onto you? Do you feel turned off and hesitant to engage with them again?

If you've been grappling with how to handle credit card fees in your own business, today’s episode is the solution you've been searching for. We’re breaking down exactly why you should stop passing these fees to your clients, and how a simple price adjustment can keep your customers happy while benefiting your bottom line. It’s all about smart business practices that look professional and don't alienate your clients.

_________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

The Days of Passive Lead Generation Are Over [Ep. 286]

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Gone are the days of sitting back and waiting for clients to roll in; taking proactive steps in lead generation is now crucial for success. As we approach 2025, it's essential to recognize that a passive approach to business will only hinder your growth. This episode emphasizes the importance of taking action and being strategic in your marketing efforts. From leveraging referral partners to engaging in coffee chats, the key is to stay top of mind and actively connect with potential clients. Tune in for some tough love and practical tips that will ignite your motivation to seek out new opportunities and build meaningful relationships in your business.

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Related Episodes:

Ep. 214: Relationship and Attraction Marketing for Lead Generation and Conversion

Ep. 229: Nurturing vs. Follow-Up: Key Differences for Effective Lead Generation

___________________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

3 reasons North Star goals are more effective than BHAG goals [Ep 285]

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 06:00:00 -0400

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

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Tired of setting those big, hairy, audacious goals that never seem to stick? I'm breaking down why traditional BHAG goal-setting often fails and introducing you to a more focused, data-driven approach using what I call the North Star method. Learn how to set goals that actually guide your decisions, keep you aligned with what matters, and help you achieve real results in your business – without the overwhelm or guilt that typically comes with traditional goal-setting.

This episode ties directly into what we teach in the Focus Visionary Accelerator program. If you love what you hear and want to dive deeper, the doors are always open!

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Related Episodes:

219: Striking the balance between stretch and attainable goals

208: Accountability - Why it works or doesn't work to help you achieve your goals

__________________________________________________________

Here's your Next Steps:

Take the "Where's the Gap in Your Business Strategy" Quiz
Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads or Facebook
Visit my website to learn more and apply for the Focused Visionary Accelerator
Sign up for my newsletter - Sunday Morning Brew - delivered every Sunday at 6 am

Buyer Trends in 2025: Top 3 Strategies to Boost Your Sales [Ep. 284]

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 11:30:00 -0400

Are you concerned about the future of your business and how to retain clients in an increasingly discerning market?

In today's episode, we'll explore three buyer trends predicted to be crucial in 2025. Michelle DeNio will discuss how building deeper connections, creating memorable client experiences, and making clients feel valued can be key strategies to ensure sustained growth and loyalty in your business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why building a deeper connection with clients is more vital than ever.
How to create and deliver an exceptional client experience.
Simple ways to make clients feel valued and appreciated.

Links:

If you want to network and build deeper connections, consider attending the monthly Collaboration Connection Hour.
If you are ready to get laser focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you

Episode Mentions:

279: 3 Simple steps to Convert Leads into Clients

225: Create a Personalized Sales Funnel to Grow Your Business

The Business of Networking: Turning Conversations into Leads - Friday Freestyle [Ep. 283]

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you frustrated with networking groups that don't seem to yield any tangible results or ROI?

In today's episode, we dive deep into the importance of networking and how to measure its return on investment. Michelle DeNio gets candid about why networking is crucial for business owners, how to recognize valuable networking opportunities, and why expecting conversions in various forms is not only acceptable but essential. Get ready for some feisty insights and practical advice on making your networking efforts truly count.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why expecting ROI from networking is crucial for your business growth.
How different forms of conversions, such as introductions and collaborations, contribute to your success.
Tips on identifying if a networking group is worth your time and effort.

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Pause and Reflect: How to End Your Business Year on a High Note [Ep. 282]

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling overwhelmed as the year comes to an end, wondering if you achieved all you set out to?

In today's episode, Michelle DeNio encourages listeners to pause, reflect, and celebrate their accomplishments. Michelle provides valuable insights on how you can review your achievements objectively, set the right intentions for the upcoming year, and ensure you enter 2025 with a balanced mindset and clear vision.

In this episode, you'll learn:

The importance of reflecting on the year's achievements and being proud of your progress.
How to objectively analyze your business year by focusing on facts rather than emotions.
Strategies for planning how you want the upcoming year to feel before diving into goal setting.

Related Episodes:

217: 2023 Wrap up – 5 random thoughts and strategies to end the year well

209: Setting the Stage for Success in 2024: Start with Self

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Why Consistency Beats Going All-In for Business Success - Friday Freestyle [Ep. 281]

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you finding yourself paralyzed by the need to go big or go home, struggling to maintain consistency in your business efforts?

In today's Friday Freestyle episode, Michelle DeNio shares some tough love on avoiding the trap of trying to leap from zero to 365 in seconds. Through a client story, she emphasizes the importance of starting small and building up consistent habits, one step at a time, to effectively grow your business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why taking all or nothing approaches can set you up for failure.
The power of small, consistent actions and their impact on business growth.
Practical tips to simplify your efforts and build sustainable habits.

Connect with Michelle on Linkedin or Facebook

If you are ready to get laser focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence, the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Related Episodes:

Ep 197: Prioritize the Boring Money Making Activities in Your Business

5 Non-Social Media Visibility Strategies for 2025 (or any year) [Ep 280]

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling burnt out by social media and looking for new ways to get your business noticed?

In today's episode, we dive into visibility strategies that move away from social media and focus on networking, relationship marketing, and other non-social media methods. Michelle shares practical steps on how to build brand awareness, get top of mind, and attract clients through genuine connections and various outreach methods.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why in-person networking and relationship marketing are crucial for business success in 2025 and beyond.
Effective ways to utilize podcast guesting and speaking opportunities to expand your reach.
How hosting your own events and improving your email marketing strategy can lead to higher conversions.

If you are ready to get laser-focused, create a clear action plan, and convert with confidence, the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, or Facebook.

Related Episodes:

Ep. 243: How to Make Email Marketing Work for Your Business

Ep. 214: Relationship and Attraction Marketing for Lead Generation and Conversion

3 Simple Steps to Convert Leads Into Clients [Ep. 279]

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you finding yourself lost in the shuffle of lead generation, wondering why your amazing leads aren't converting into paying clients?

In today's episode, we dive into strategies for ensuring that your leads don't fall through the cracks. Michelle discusses the crucial steps for tracking, following up, and converting leads efficiently, so nothing gets left behind and every potential client is maximized.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How to effectively track your leads in the moment to avoid missing out on opportunities.
The importance of having a clear next step for leads to move through the sales funnel.
Why a well-defined conversion strategy can drastically improve your lead-to-client ratio.

Next Steps:

Download your Free Scattered to Strategic Guide: 9 Steps to Scale with F.O.C.U.S.

If you are ready to get laser focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence, the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Threads, or Facebook

Related Episodes:

Ep 238: Effective Use of Lead Magnets to Attract Clients

Ep 250: Attracting the Right Clients: Marketing and Sales Tips for Coaches

3 steps to avoid turning your business into a JOB {Friday Freestyle} - [Ep 278]

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by endless client requests and questioning whether you've just created another job for yourself, rather than a true business?

In today's episode, we delve into the challenges of managing time, client expectations, and setting boundaries while maintaining the freedom and flexibility you sought when starting your business. Through a real-life scenario from a mastermind session, we'll shed light on the importance of defining your non-negotiables and staying true to your core values to avoid turning your entrepreneurial journey into another 9-to-5 job.

In this episode, you'll learn:

The importance of setting clear boundaries with clients to maintain your freedom.
How to identify whether you've created a business or just another job.
Practical steps to ensure clients understand the nature and limits of fractional roles.

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Related Episodes:

Ep. 224: Passion vs. Paycheck: Saying Yes, Chasing Money, and Finding Passion

Ep. 230: Embracing Your Skills as a Small Business Owner

How to Combat “Friend Zoning” In Business with Guest Meg Joyce [Ep. 277]

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling "friend zoned" in your business relationships?

In this episode, we explore the frustrations many business owners face when their offerings don't convert interest into clients.

Host Michelle DeNio talks with Meg Joyce from In Kind Brand Therapy about the misconceptions around "brand therapy" and the importance of aligning your personal identity with your business brand.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why aligning your internal identity with your external brand is crucial.
How to address and overcome fear-based branding.
Effective strategies for simplifying your service descriptions to enhance clarity and referrals.

Connect with Meg: Instagram, Website

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Related Episodes:

Ep. 214: Relationship and Attraction Marketing for Lead Generation and Conversion

Ep. 222: Have you niched yourself too far?

3 Strategies to Turn Your Business Ideas into Actionable Steps [Ep 276]

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you overwhelmed with too many ideas and struggling to take action on them? Wondering how to sift through your thoughts and focus on what's truly important for your business?

In this episode, we break down practical strategies to transform your overflowing ideas into actionable steps. We'll explore how to get organized, set clear priorities, and create a focused plan to drive your business forward effectively.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why getting your ideas out of your head is the first step to reducing overwhelm.
How to determine which ideas align with your business direction and goals.
Practical steps to break down big ideas into manageable actions and prioritize your tasks.

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Related Episodes:

Ep 234: Weekly Revenue Generating Actions

Ep. 199: 5 Questions to ask yourself BEFORE implementing a new idea

The secret to better client engagement {Friday Freestyle} - [Ep 275]

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you finding it hard to get the best out of your team or clients?

In today's episode, we dive into an innovative approach to training people to work effectively with you. Michelle DeNio shares a genius onboarding strategy from her mastermind colleague, Annalee, that can significantly boost engagement and productivity. Listen to learn how educating your team or clients on utilizing your strengths can transform your working relationships.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How to educate your team or clients to get the most out of working with you.
The impact of tailored onboarding processes on engagement and productivity.
The simple yet powerful advantages of understanding and leveraging human design in professional settings.

Join the Focused Visionary Accelerator today (FVA)!

Related Episodes:

Ep. 250: Attracting the Right Fit Clients: Marketing and Sales Tips for Coaches

3 Tips to Optimize Your Time and Increase Business Profits [Ep 274]

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you overwhelmed with tasks and feeling like there's never enough time to get everything done in your business?

In today's episode, we diving into the essential strategies for time management and optimization that can boost your business' profitability.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why having too much on your plate makes time optimization nearly impossible.
The importance of clear focus, structured plans, and a solid sales strategy.
How to effectively streamline tasks and set realistic expectations to maximize productivity.

Next Steps:

Download your Free Scattered to Strategic Guide: 9 Steps to Scale with F.O.C.U.S.

If you are ready to get laser focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence, the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Threads, or Facebook.

Related Episodes:

Ep 238: Effective Use of Lead Magnets to Attract Clients

Ep 250: Attracting the Right Clients: Marketing and Sales Tips for Coaches

Your Online Business Really Isn’t That Different! The Two Things You Need To Succeed [Ep 273]

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you caught up in thinking your business is so special that common business strategies just won't work for you?

In today's episode, we'll challenge the belief that your business is fundamentally different from others and reveal how simplifying your approach to sales and marketing can create transformative results. Michelle DeNio uncovers why foundational business principles apply to everyone and shares practical strategies to optimize and streamline your operations for growth.

In this episode, you'll learn:

The universal importance of having a solid sales and marketing plan.
How to simplify your strategy to attract and convert clients effectively.
Why focusing on what's truly special in your business after conversion can help overcome growth obstacles.

Next Steps:

Download your Free Scattered to Strategic Guide: 9 Steps to Scale with F.O.C.U.S.

If you are ready to get laser-focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence, the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Threads, or Facebook

Related Episodes:

Ep 216: Sales AND Marketing – Your business needs both!

Ep 225: Create a Personalized Sales Funnel to Grow Your Business

3 Strategies to stay motivated when you want to quit your online business [Ep. 272]

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, questioning whether you're truly cut out for this journey?

In today's episode, we dive deep into those moments of doubt and uncertainty that every entrepreneur faces. Michelle shares personal stories and practical advice on how to realign with your core values, recognize when something is out of alignment, and reignite your passion for your business.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How to identify and realign tasks that are out of alignment with your core values.
The importance of reconnecting with your core values and vision to maintain motivation.
Practical steps to take when feeling like giving up, including seeking support and reflecting on your entrepreneurial journey.

Next Steps:

Download your Free Scattered to Strategic Guide: 9 Steps to Scale with F.O.C.U.S.

If you are ready to get laser focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence I Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Threads, or Facebook

Related Episodes:

Episode 190: Maybe this year isn't a growth year

Episode 249: Reconnecting to your vision

3 Questions to Ask Your Clients to Boost Sales and Referrals [Ep 271]

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you struggling to fill your client roster, wondering where to find the right clients who truly need your services?

In today's episode, we explore how understanding why your clients choose you can unlock new opportunities for growth. Through an insightful strategy session story, we'll highlight practical steps to identify and attract your ideal clients, setting a solid foundation for your business expansion.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why understanding why clients choose you is crucial for business growth.
How to leverage common traits among your current clients to find more prospects.
Simple, practical steps to gather and utilize client feedback in your messaging.

Next Steps:

Download your Free Scattered to Strategic Guide: 9 Steps to Scale with F.O.C.U.S.

If you are ready to get laser focused, create a clear action plan and convert with confidence the Focused Visionary Accelerator may be the perfect fit for you.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn, Threads or Facebook

Related Episodes:

Ep 238: Effective Use of Lead Magnets to Attract Clients

Ep 250: Attracting the Right Clients: Marketing and Sales Tips for Coaches

Why Perfectionism is Costing You Sales [Ep 270]

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you constantly paralyzed by the need for perfection?

Today's episode dives into the perfectionism trap that many entrepreneurs face discussing how the endless pursuit of perfection can stifle your business growth.

You will hear actionable strategies to overcome this mindset and embrace "done is better than perfect", helping you take action, even with imperfect projects.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why perfectionism prevents action and business momentum.
How to utilize beta runs and market research to improve your offerings.
The power of the 80/20 rule to focus on what truly moves the needle in your business.

Related Episodes:

267 - 3 Things Stopping You from Scaling

Work with Michelle:

If you're already doing $3-4K in monthly revenue, and you want help getting to the next level, DM me on IG with the word "private" and I'll share the details of my month-to-month, cancel anytime "back pocket" coaching offer

How to Effectively Bundle and Market Your Offers for Solopreneur Success [Ep.269]

Fri, 11 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you an overwhelmed solopreneur trying to market your vast range of resources? Discover actionable strategies to streamline your offerings and attract more members.

In this episode of The Real Truth about Business, Michelle DeNio hosts live coaching for Sue Pats from New Beginning Success Collaboration. Sue reveals her struggle with marketing her extensive membership resources tailored for solopreneurs. Michelle offers guidance on simplifying messaging, identifying target audiences, and ensuring pricing strategies that keep customers engaged.

Key Takeaways:

Simplify your offering by converting your comprehensive 120-day roadmap into a more digestible 90-day format for new solopreneurs.
Identify and target specific audiences separately like starter solopreneurs and those seeking visibility tours in advanced marketing.
Use marketing terms like "visibility tour" to appeal to advanced users looking to increase their audience reach efficiently.
Maintain a consistent price point ($40) across all memberships to make it affordable and retainable for users while ensuring you’re providing immense value.
Promoting the affiliate program with reasonable commissions can also attract more members and diversify income streams.

Connect with Sue: New Beginning Success Collaboration Memberships

How Strategic Discounts Can Boost Conversions and Client Loyalty [Ep. 268]

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you struggling with whether discounts are attracting the wrong clients or increasing your conversion rates?

In this episode we are taking a look into the strategy and psychology behind offering discounts exploring the common beliefs surrounding discounts, their potential benefits and drawbacks, and how the intention and energy behind your discount strategy can make all the difference. This discussion stems from a question posed by a member of the Focus Visionary Accelerator program, sparking an insightful conversation about how to offer discounts without leading clients to expect them consistently.

Related Episodes:

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

How to avoid Burnout by Focusing on One Business Strategy [Ep. 267}

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you constantly jumping from one strategy to another, fearing you’re missing out on the next big thing? It’s time to break the cycle! In this episode, we dive into the detrimental effects of FOMO on your business growth and how to reclaim your focus. Discover why sticking to one strategy is crucial for your success and how to shift your mindset to see real results.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

Understanding how FOMO can lead to burnout and hinder your business growth.
The importance of commitment to a single strategy for long-term success.
How to evaluate your past strategies and find what truly works for you.

Mentioned in This Episode:

Focus Visionary Accelerator

Relevant Episodes:

Ep. 259: How to Keep Emotions in Check for Better Business Decisions

Ep. 255: Customizing Your Business Strategy to Show Up as Your Best Self

Ep. 252: Overcoming Distraction: Strategies for Entrepreneurs to Stay Focused

Next Steps:

If you’re ready to stop letting FOMO control your business decisions and want personalized guidance on choosing the right strategy for you, I invite you to join the Focused Visionary Accelerator.

If you loved this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Redefining Success After Letting Go of Your Team (Focused Action Coaching - Nicole Bernardo)[Ep. 266]

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Michelle DeNio helps Nicole navigate her transition from managing a team back to being a solo entrepreneur, and explores the strategies to effectively position herself as an expert in her field. Join us as we uncover the challenges and opportunities Nicole faces during this transition and the actionable steps she can take to continue growing and scaling her business. Tune in to learn more about strategic business management, reconnecting with your core values, and reinventing your business with passion and purpose.

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

Create a Monthly Offer: Develop a month-to-month service package that includes business management, project management, and virtual administration. Ensure it’s clearly laid out with defined hours and pricing.
Focus on Strategy First: Lead with business strategy and project management before offering virtual administration services. Ensure clients understand that implementation follows an initial strategy session.
Embrace the Transition: View the shift back to being a solo entrepreneur as an opportunity to reconnect with your business, rediscover your passions, and let the process be fun and enjoyable.

Connect with Nicole Bernardo:

Keywords:

Live coaching, positioning as an expert, ideal client, virtual administration, business strategy, project management, month-to-month package, reconnecting with business, virtual partners, business growth strategy

3 Things stopping you from scaling your business

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this conversation, Michelle DeNio discusses three major factors that can stifle business growth: overthinking, a non-scalable business model, and the tendency to wear too many hats. She emphasizes the importance of taking action, reevaluating pricing strategies, and delegating tasks to foster growth and efficiency in business operations.

How to Scale Your Business While Remaining a Solopreneur [Ep. 264]

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode of "The Real Truth about Business," Michelle DeNio dives deep into the joys and advantages of being a solopreneur. If you're someone who thrives as a "party of one" and wonders if it's possible to scale your business without creating a big team, this episode is your guiding light. Michelle candidly shares personal insights, actionable strategies, and the mindset needed to maintain and grow your business independently while leveraging specialized help from part-time contractors.

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

Embrace the Solopreneur Mindset: Understand that being a solopreneur doesn't mean doing everything alone. Cultivate a mindset where you're comfortable with leveraging part-time contractors for specific skills you lack or don't enjoy.
Identify and Utilize Specialized Help: Make a list of tasks that you can outsource to specialized contractors (e.g., podcast editing, graphic design) to free up your time and focus on your core business activities.
Focus on Scalable Offers: Create scalable offers like group programs, evergreen offers, or high-ticket one-on-one services that allow you to grow your business without needing a full-time team.

Join the Focused Visionary 8-Week Accelerator starting September 23

Keywords:

solopreneur, party of one, business scaling, stay solo in business, online business growth, small business owner, manage business alone, business without team, scaling without employees, focused visionary program

Strategies for Rebuilding Your Community in Business Transition (Focused Action Coaching-Dana Canneto) [Ep. 263]

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, host Michelle DeNio chats with Dana Canetto, founder of Luminary Woman, during a live coaching session. Dana shares her journey and struggles with evolving her business and audience. Michelle provides actionable advice on how Dana can strategically position herself as a leader in relationships and leadership. Tune in to discover how you can navigate growth and step into your next level of business.

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

Reflect on Client Journeys: Examine your most successful client cases to understand why they chose you and the common challenges they faced. Use these insights to attract your ideal clients.
Embrace Your Niche: Get clear on your unique value proposition and focus on it in your content, conversations, and marketing materials. Make sure your messaging aligns with what you are passionate about.
Seek Speaking Opportunities: Look for speaking engagements and events where your ideal clients are likely to be. This will help you build credibility and connect with your target audience more effectively.

🌍 Connect with Dana Canetto: Dana Canetto Website

🎧 Check out Dana's Podcast: The Luminary Woman Podcast

Keywords:

Live coaching, Dana Canetto, Luminary Woman, liberating women, relationships and leadership, feminine and masculine balance, women in leadership, professional women, conscious relationships, business strategy.

Pricing Strategies That Actually Work!

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of my favorite topics: pricing in alignment with your goals. It’s crucial for your success to ensure that your pricing strategies are in harmony with your big vision. Sometimes, setting the right price can be the difference between feeling stuck and achieving your revenue targets. Join me as I explore the pitfalls of misaligned pricing and share actionable strategies to help you structure your prices effectively.

We’ll talk about how to break down your revenue goals, assess the time you have available, and ensure your offerings are positioned correctly.

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

Do the Basic Math: Calculate your revenue goals and break them into manageable chunks. Determine how many clients or sales you need and if it's feasible with your capacity.
Assess Your Capacity: Evaluate the time you have weekly for client work versus admin tasks. Ensure your number of clients and pricing match your available hours and revenue goals.
Understand Your Market: Ensure your prices are positioned correctly for your target audience. Adjust pricing if necessary while respecting the monetary capacity and needs of your ideal clients.

Join The Focused Visionary Accelerator

Sunday Morning Brew Resources

Keywords:

Pricing strategy, Business goals, Revenue alignment, Offer pricing, Pricing for positioning, Revenue goals, Focus Visionary program, Business growth, Client conversion, Entrepreneur math.

3 Key Metrics Every Entrepreneur Should Track for Success [Ep. 261]

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Ever hear the word "data" and feel immediately overwhelmed? Don't worry, you're not alone. Data isn't just numbers and spreadsheets; it's valuable information hiding in plain sight that can drive your business growth. In today's episode, Michelle DeNio simplifies the concept of data and walks you through practical steps to uncover and leverage the golden nuggets in your business. Tune in to discover how to use data to make strategic decisions, improve your marketing efforts, and ultimately grow your business without the overwhelm.

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

Identify Client Sources: Review your last five clients and determine where they found you. Focus more efforts on these high-impact sources.
Analyze Marketing ROI: Track which marketing efforts generate the most return, whether in clients, opportunities, or collaborations. Double down on what's working.
Conduct a Time Audit: Spend a day recording how you spend your time. Identify tasks that aren't a good use of your time and consider outsourcing them to free you up for high-value activities.

🔗 EPISODE MENTIONS AND LINKS

📧 Get the Key Metrics Guide: Subscribe to the Sunday Morning Brew newsletter to access a detailed list of key metrics for your business. Subscribe Here

🎙️ Listen to Previous Episodes:

Keywords: data in business, business growth, marketing return on investment, client acquisition, solopreneurs, trends in business, business metrics, outsourcing business tasks, seasonal business trends, strategic planning for entrepreneurs

Strategies for structuring your brand (Focused Action Live Coaching - Jamie Smith) [Ep. 260]

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode of The Real Truth About Business, Michelle DeNio chats with Jamie Smith about branding her new book and speaking business separately from her established writing company. Jamie shares her journey as an entrepreneur living with chronic illness and how it inspired her upcoming book, "Destination Changes." Tune in for insights on branding, niching down, and using your story to inspire others!

Action Steps from this episode:

1. Separate Your Brands: If your audiences and goals differ, consider branding your businesses separately to avoid confusion and maintain focus.

2. Niche Down: Hone in on a specific target audience that resonates most with your story and expertise to create a stronger impact and reach the right people.

3. Share Your Truth: Don't be afraid to share your unique story and experiences to inspire and help others facing similar challenges.

Jamie's Book: Destination Changes

Website: jamieannesmith.com

Work with Michelle:

Keywords:

Destination changes book, Entrepreneurs with chronic illness, Podcast tour for authors, Personal branding for authors, Branding a book separately from a business, Inspiring stories of chronic illness, Monetizing a book beyond sales, Niching down a target audience for a book

How to Keep Emotions in Check for Better Business Decisions [Ep. 259]

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode of we address a crucial aspect of decision-making in your business: separating facts from emotions. Michelle dives deep into how emotions can cloud your judgment and the importance of making decisions based on data. Michelle shares real-life examples of her clients, illustrating how separating facts from emotions can drastically change the outlook of your business situation.

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

Conduct a Facts vs. Emotions Exercise: When feeling uncertain about a situation in your business, write down the facts and emotions separately. This can give you a clearer perspective and help you make a well-informed decision.
Track Relevant Data: Regularly review key metrics such as profit margin, client feedback, and revenue to base your business decisions on solid data rather than gut feelings.
Stay Neutral When Evaluating Decisions: Before making any major decision, ensure you are in a neutral state of mind. Meditate, take a walk, or journal—anything to clear your mind of emotional biases.

Work with Michelle:

Revenue or Reach: Choosing the Best Strategy for Your Business [Ep. 258]

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you struggling to decide whether to need more reach or revenue within your business?

In today's episode I dive into the intricacies of increasing revenue versus growing brand awareness and visibility.

Action Steps from this episode:

Define Your Goal: Clarify whether you want to increase revenue or reach. If it's revenue, focus your efforts deep into what's already working. If it's reach, expand your visibility by going wide.
Streamline Your Efforts: Choose a few strategies or channels that are already showing results and double down on them to maximize ROI.
Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess your strategies to see which approach is yielding the best results and be prepared to pivot as needed.

Mentions and Links:

Customizing Your Business Strategy [Ep. 255]

Work with Michelle:

Keywords:

business strategy, going wide, going deep, revenue growth, brand awareness, market research, ROI, product diversification, marketing strategies, visibility reach

Client Conversion Strategies (Focused Action Coaching: Shruthi Sundaram) [Ep. 257]

Fri, 16 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, I sit down with Shruthi Sundaram, a soul purpose coach and intuitive business guide from India. This live focused action coaching session dives deep into strategies for enhancing lead generation and client conversion, particularly for those using platforms like LinkedIn. Tune in to learn practical tips on how to update your online presence, change the way you invite potential clients, and make your offerings more digestible and compelling.

Action Steps from this episode:

Revamp Your Website Content: Shorten and simplify the text on your website to make it less overwhelming. Highlight your offers prominently to ensure visitors can easily understand and access them.
Change Your Discovery Call Name: Rename your discovery calls to something more inviting, like a "Free Intuitive Guidance Call" or "Soul Purpose Alignment Session," to reduce the negative connotation often associated with traditional discovery calls.
Create an Engaging Lead Magnet: Offer a free masterclass or a high-value lead magnet that allows potential clients to experience your expertise. This can double as a nurturing tool to build trust and guide them towards a more personalized service or call.

Connect with Shruthi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shruthividhyasundaram/

Work with Michelle:

Keywords:

The Real Truth about Business, Shruthi Sundaram, business coaching podcast, soul purpose coach, intuitive business guide, client conversion, discovery calls, LinkedIn for business, live coaching sessions, intuitive guidance.

Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind for Business Breakthroughs with Guest Julie Costa [Ep. 256]

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, Michelle DeNio sits down with Julie Costa, a business hypnotherapist, to discuss the transformative power of inner work for achieving professional and personal success. Julie shares her journey of overcoming burnout and feelings of unworthiness by shifting her focus from external solutions to embodying desired traits through deep inner work. Tune in to discover the importance of addressing subconscious beliefs, embracing modalities like hypno breath work, and prioritizing enjoyable business activities to unlock your full potential. Get ready to dive deep and unleash your inner power!

Action Steps from this episode:

1. Embrace Inner Work: Be open and willing to explore your subconscious beliefs and fears through modalities like hypno breath work, Reiki, or spiritual coaching to overcome self-sabotage and achieve breakthroughs.

2. Prioritize Enjoyable Business Activities: Focus on tasks that bring you joy and productivity in your business to increase revenue and attract new opportunities.

3. Implement Subconscious Reprogramming: Utilize tools like subliminal audios and consistent mindset work to reprogram your subconscious mind and experience subtle shifts that lead to unexpected growth.

Connect with Julie Costa on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julie.m.costa/

7 Day Free Trial of Activate

Key Words:

Hypno breath work, Subconscious reprogramming, Mindset work, Subliminal audios, Business hypnotherapist, Inner work, Embodiment, Business success, Burnout

Customize your business strategy to show up as your best self [Ep 255]

Wed, 07 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we're discussing customizing your strategy to work for YOU. Finding a strategy that feels good, aligns with your strengths, and allows you to show up as your best self consistently is important. When you're not excited about your strategy or it doesn't resonate with you, it's nearly impossible to maintain consistency and get the results you desire. Tune in to discover how you can tailor your approach to fit your unique style and start seeing better outcomes in your business. Let's get into it!

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

1. Identify Your Zone of Genius: Ask yourself, "How do I best show up? When do I feel like my clients get the absolute 100% best of me?" Use these insights to guide your strategy.

2. Examine Resistance: When you feel resistance to a strategy or suggestion, dig deeper. Is it pushing you out of your comfort zone in a good way, or does it truly not align with who you are? Be honest with yourself.

3. Make Adjustments: If your current offers or growth strategy don't match how you best show up, make the necessary changes. You have the power as the CEO to customize your approach.

🔗 EPISODE MENTIONS AND LINKS

Free Consult Call with Michelle

If lack of focus is an issue for you, check out Episode 252 for more insights.

Keywords:

Customizing your strategy, Business strategy, Consistency in business, Best business practices, Showing up as your best self, Offering value to clients, Overcoming resistance in business, Designing offers that work for you, Creating a successful group program, Maintaining focus in business

How to Increase Sales with No Commitment Offers [Ep. 254]

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, we're diving into a hot topic that's been making rounds lately: No Commitment Offers! Let's bust the myth that people aren't buying and discuss how consumer buying behaviors have evolved. Learn how to adapt your offers to appeal to today's buyers who value the flexibility and peace of mind that comes with no long-term commitments. Tune in to discover actionable tips on implementing try-before-you-buy strategies, leveraging referrals, and much more!

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

1. Offer a Free Trial: Consider adding a 7-day or 30-day free trial to your membership or program to lower the entry barrier and build trust with potential clients.

2. Implement a Month-to-Month Option: Modify your existing offers to include a month-to-month payment plan. Highlight the flexibility and ease of cancellation to attract commitment-shy prospects.

3. Leverage Referrals: Reach out to your referral partners and let them know you're open to new clients. Encourage them to share your offers within their networks and consider mutual referral benefits.

Links and Mentions:

No Commitment Summer Offers

Join the Sunday Morning Brew Newsletter

Keywords:

real truth about business, no commitment offers, buying behavior trends, fear of commitment, decision fatigue, free trial offer, month-to-month subscription, client referrals, try before you buy, strategic power hour

Why traditional snail mail marketing is your secret weapon [Ep. 253]

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In a world dominated by digital communication, could snail mail be your secret weapon for business growth? Absolutely! On today’s episode of "The Real Truth about Business," Michelle DeNio discusses the power of sending cards and gifts through snail mail to strengthen relationships and stay top of mind with clients and contacts. Michelle shares her journey with snail mail marketing, why it works, and offers actionable steps on how you can get started. If you want to stand out against the noise and cultivate deeper business relationships, this episode is a must-listen. Let’s dive in!

📜 Action Steps from this episode:

1. Collect Addresses Upfront: Integrate a request for physical addresses in your intake forms or during initial meetings to make sending snail mail effortless.

2. Pick a Day to write your cards: Choose a specific day each week or month dedicated solely to writing and sending out your cards and small gifts.

3. Personalize Your Cards: Make your cards memorable by handwriting notes and including thoughtful extras like stickers or affirmation cards.

🔗 EPISODE MENTIONS AND LINKS

📅 Book a Coffee Chat with Michelle: MichelleZoomChat.com

💌 Tools Mentioned: SendOutCards, Mailbox Power

👩🏽‍💻Learn more about the Focused Visionary Retreat in December

***************************************************************************************

snail mail marketing, top of mind awareness, business growth strategy, send out cards, promoting business relationships, handwritten cards, effective marketing tactics, happy mail marketing, client engagement techniques, digital marketing alternatives

Overcoming Distraction: Strategies for Entrepreneurs to Stay Focused [Ep. 252]

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 08:30:00 -0400

In this episode we are diving into a topic that affects every entrepreneur at some stage in their journey - Lack of Focus. We'll explore how this issue impacts business growth and what we can do to combat it. From recognizing the signs of lack of focus to actionable strategies that can help you maintain your priorities, this episode is packed with insights to transform your approach to business.

Recognize Signs: Acknowledge if you are switching priorities too often, managing your time ineffectively, or feeling overwhelmed.
Set Goals: Define what your primary focus will be for the next 60 days.
Create Structure: Establish a daily and weekly routine that categorizes specific tasks for designated days.
Prioritize High-Impact Tasks: Focus on activities that will significantly impact your business.
Eliminate Distractions: Limit time on social media and avoid getting swayed by others' opinions.
Reflect and Evaluate: Regularly reflect on your time management and assess which tasks are contributing to your business growth.
Engage in Strategic Planning: Dedicate time to a strategic power hour for effective planning.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Focus Visionary Retreat: Join us in December in Nokomis, Florida for an immersive experience to help you regain and maintain focus. Register Here

Sunday Morning Brew Newsletter: Sign up to receive weekly insights and updates. Subscribe Here

business growth, lack of focus, switching priorities, changing goals, ineffective time management, feeling overwhelmed, entrepreneurship challenges, simplifying tasks, identifying lack of focus, goal-setting strategies, maintaining focus, The Focus Visionary program, 60-day planning period, daily structure, time management, high-impact activities, revenue-generating activities, strategic planning, eliminating distractions

Shaking Up Business as Usual: Why It’s Time to Go Deeper [Ep. 251]

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I address the common feeling of the "seven-year itch" in business and how many of us feel the need for a shakeup. I emphasize the importance of moving beyond surface-level conversations and strategies, and really diving deep into what makes a business thrive. I also share my thoughts on changing titles and roles to better reflect the deeper, more impactful work I aim to do. If you're feeling unsettled or stuck, this episode is for you.

Action Points for Listeners

Evaluate Your Business Relationships: Identify where surface-level conversations are holding you back.
Define Your Own Rules: Write down what your rules for business and entrepreneurship are.
Consider a New Role: Think about how you can reposition yourself to have a deeper impact on your clients.
Take Immediate Action: Book a strategic power hour to develop a plan tailored specifically for your needs.

Join the Sunday Morning Brew email list

Keywords: coaching clients, strategic advisor, Fractional CEO, business development, sales and marketing, client attraction, lead generation, high level consulting, business expertise, collaboration, mastermind, business growth, entrepreneurship, financial freedom, business ownership.

Attracting the Right Clients: Marketing and Sales Tips for Coaches (Focused Action Live Coaching: Marie Romero) [Ep. 250]

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's coaching session, I am joined by Marie Romero, the CEO and founder of Creating Greatness. We dive deep into marketing strategies, client acquisition, and how to elevate yourself from the freebie zone to a paid zone in the business world.

Actionable Points for Listeners:

Evaluate Your Free vs. Paid Offerings: Set clear boundaries on what value you provide for free. Transition to a paid model when deeper, customized help is necessary.

Run a Free Masterclass: Choose a key module from your program and offer it as a free masterclass. Use this to showcase the value of your paid offerings.

Utilize Social Proof: Collect testimonials and feedback from your free sessions to use as marketing material for your paid programs.

Shift Your Sales Messaging: Focus on demonstrating how your program provides tailored, actionable strategies rather than convincing potential clients of the general value of coaching.

Nurture Your Network: Keep in touch with contacts and freebie seekers. Continue to provide value and stay top-of-mind for when they are ready to invest.

Connect with Marie:

Website

Facebook

Keywords:

business coach, group program, marketing strategy, client acquisition, freebie seeker zone, profitable offer suite, sales strategy, social media marketing, networking, business strategies, target audience, business growth, customer nurturing, sales conversion, business consultant

Reconnecting with Your Vision: Why It Matters [Ep. 249]

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, we're diving into the importance of reconnecting with your business vision. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or things are moving too fast, taking a moment to realign with your goals and intentions can make all the difference. This episode is packed with insights and practical steps to help you get back on track, no matter where you are in your business journey.

Key Takeaways:

Regularly reconnect with your vision and assess its relevance and alignment.
Consider what you want to be known for and ensure your positioning reflects that.
Reevaluate your goals, intentions, and key success factors as your business and life evolve.
Listen to yourself and trust your instincts when making decisions for your business.

Mentioned in this episode:

Episode on Owning Your Inner CEO

No Commitment Summer Offers

Keywords:

reconnecting with your vision, business planning, focus visionary program, quarterly planning, overwhelmed entrepreneurs, stagnation in business, business goals, goal setting, evolving business goals, imposter syndrome, time management, positioning in business, annual business goals, strategic plan

The Top Five Method for Busy Entrepreneurs [Ep. 248]

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I'm diving into a quick productivity tip called 'Top 5' that is especially helpful during the summer or anytime you're feeling overwhelmed. We all have those days where our to-do lists seem never-ending and it's hard to know where to start. This simple and effective strategy helps you get centered and grounded, allowing you to stop the overwhelm in its tracks and stay productive.

Action Points for Listeners:

Each night, review your to-do list and select the top three to five tasks that must be completed the next day.
Be realistic about what you can accomplish, especially if you have a day full of calls or other commitments.
Schedule an hour in your calendar specifically for completing your top five tasks.
If tasks are not completed, move them to the next day's list without adding new tasks.
Continuously evaluate if you are over-committing to prevent burnout.

Links:

Join the Sunday Morning Brew Newsletter

Keywords:

productivity tips, summer productivity, feeling overwhelmed, productivity strategies, top five method, daily task list, prioritizing tasks, tackling deadlines, mindful task management, top priorities, balancing tasks and calls, sustainable business growth, avoiding burnout, effective time management, focusing on business growth.

Collaborating with Confidence (Focused Action Coaching: Jade Fulton) [Ep. 247]

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode we’re diving deep into live coaching with the amazing LinkedIn strategist, Jade Fulton. In this action-packed coaching session, Jade and I cover proposals for collaboration opportunities, protecting your time and intellectual property, setting boundaries, and effective client onboarding.

Action Points:

Time and Energy Assessment: Evaluate the time and energy you’d need to invest in any collaborative program.
Proposal Crafting: Ensure your proposals include boundaries, your involvement, intellectual property rights, and pricing.
Structuring Support: Implement office hours or set Q&A times to handle client questions effectively.
Intellectual Property Protection: Ensure you retain ownership of your content and detail how it can be used after a collaboration ends.
Scaling Intelligently: If successful, consider creating group programs to manage increased client loads better.
Clear Contract Terms: Put clear terms in your contract, including duration and rights to your material.

Connect with Jade Fulton:

Website

Keywords:

lead generation, marketing expert, social media strategy, time management, intellectual property, collaboration opportunities, pricing strategy, client conversion

Unlock Your Inner CEO: It's Time to Own Your Business!

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today’s episode, I dive deep into helping you shift your mindset to embrace the CEO inside of you as a business owner. If hearing the word "CEO" feels intimidating or too corporate, I want to change that. Let’s make the title of CEO empowering and aligned with your journey to business success.

Actionable Steps:

Mindset Shift: Start introducing yourself as the CEO of your business.
Create Evidence List: Maintain a journal titled “Embracing My Inner CEO” where you note every significant decision, plan, goal, and leadership action you undertake.
Schedule CEO Days: Dedicate specific days each month to focus on CEO-level tasks such as strategic planning and financial reviews.
Embrace Expertise: Recognize when to hire experts (like a CPA or a coach) to assist in areas where you lack knowledge.

Links:

Focused Visionary 5 Day Reset

Keywords:

CEO mindset, business owner, skilled professional, solopreneur, small business, decision making, financial oversight, leadership role, operations management, vision and strategy, long-term goals, company values, mission statement, high-level decisions, strategic planning, financial decisions, hiring contractors, team management, proactive decisions, reactive tasks, CEO hat, business growth, strategic growth, embracing CEO role, fractional CEO, business decisions, client management.

How to Avoid Confusing Your Audience [Ep. 245]

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Today we're diving into a crucial topic: confusing your audience. We’ll explore how to streamline your offers to avoid overwhelming your potential clients and ensure clarity in your messaging.

Action Steps:

1. Evaluate your current offers. Are they too similar or too spread out?

2. Get feedback from clients and prospects to identify points of confusion.

3. Consider simplifying your offers to two or three distinct ones.

4. Focus on the results each offer delivers and ensure they align with your expertise.

5. Keep room for customization but don't make it public-facing; use it on a case-by-case basis.

Links:

- Summer no-commitment offers

- For a deeper dive into offer creation and client attraction, check out our previous episodes on building an offer suite and understanding your ideal client.

Keywords:

business growth, sustainable business, profitable business, business strategy, business coaching, ideal client, client results, VIP day, group coaching program, mastermind, rapid fire program, DIY offers, high ticket offers, business ownership, offer suite, client feedback.

Effective Launch Strategies for Creative Entrepreneurs (Focused Action Coaching Session: Tina Divita) [Ep. 244]

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Tina shares her insights on her latest venture—an online course focused on virtual appreciation gifts. We dive into her promotional strategies, relationship-building techniques, and how to make the most out of a warm audience. We also discuss the power of using custom graphics and templates, and Tina's unique approach to creating engaging content for her private Facebook group.

Key Takeaways:

Tina's social media strategy: primarily active on Facebook, followed by Instagram, and exploring TikTok. Discussing the importance of community engagement and using custom graphics to build a warm audience.
Tina's plan to offer a 50% discount on her current membership for a new course launch. The strategy of creating waitlists, offering early access, and discounted prices to warm audiences.
Exploring the value in done-for-you templates and how teaching clients to use them adds significant value.
Discussing terms like "mini training" or "training and toolkit" to avoid devaluing the course.
The importance of referral partners and affiliate programs for promoting new courses.
Tina's strategy to involve leading brokers and visits to other brokerages for expanding her reach.

Action Steps:

If you're planning to launch a new course, consider pre-selling to your warm audience and creating a waitlist.
Engage your community with custom graphics and interactive content such as surveys.
Explore using referral and affiliate programs to expand your reach.
Focus on building strong relationships with a small, loyal audience who can help you grow your business.
Stay within your niche for the initial launch and consider expanding afterward based on audience feedback.

Connect with Tina Divita

Visit Tina's website

Follow Tina on social media:

Facebook

relationship marketing, effective launch strategy, online course launch, referral program, affiliate program, marketing strategy, digital marketing, community engagement, referral partners, virtual course, membership promotion

How to Make Email Marketing Work for Your Business [Ep. 243]

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

If you've been struggling with email marketing or have been thinking about incorporating it into your business but feel overwhelmed by the idea, this episode is for you. In this episode, I share my own email marketing journey, including the mindset shifts that helped me stay consistent, and offer practical tips and insights to help you find success with your email marketing efforts.

Key Takeaways:

Mindset Shift: Overcoming the fear and intimidation of email marketing by modeling after newsletters you love.
Consistency: Why it's important and how to maintain it.
Personal Touch: The importance of honesty, vulnerability, and storytelling in your emails.
Segmentation: How effective segmentation respects your audience and enhances engagement.
Content Structure: The benefits of having consistent sections in your newsletter.
Nurturing vs. Selling: Using email marketing more as a nurturing tool rather than just for sales.
Small Lists: Embracing the value and potential of a small but engaged email list.
Experimentation: Don't be afraid to play by your own rules and test new email marketing strategies.

Action Steps:

1. Identify Your Favorite Emails: Think about the newsletters you always open and analyze what you love about them.

2. Segment Your List: Implement segmentation to cater to different audience needs and respectfully manage uninterested subscribers.

3. Create Consistent Sections: Develop a newsletter structure that your audience can rely on.

4. Nurturing Mindset: Focus on building relationships and providing value rather than just selling.

5. Monitor and Revise: Track your email marketing results and make necessary adjustments for better engagement.

6. Avoid Perfectionism: Don't let the fear of being perfect prevent you from starting or continuing your email marketing efforts.

Links:

www.sundaymorningbrew.com

Liz Wilcox’s $9 Email Marketing Membership

Keywords:

email marketing, business, Sunday morning brew, nurture strategy, selling, lead magnets, freebies, small email list, marketing strategy

Overcoming Fear of Sales and Closing with Confidence [Ep. 242]

Wed, 29 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, we're diving deep into one of my all-time favorite topics—confidently closing the sale. If the idea of closing makes you cringe, this episode is for you. I'll walk you through how to build the confidence you need to make those sales with ease and authenticity.

Key Takeaways:

Confidence is key—if you don't believe in your offer, neither will your clients.
Love your offer suite: Believe in the results you can provide.
Practice your pitch with a business buddy.
Learn from discovery calls—record them, listen back, and use client language in your responses.
Let the client do most of the talking; understand their true needs and pain points.
Tailor your response to their specific situation while maintaining integrity.
Ask about their fears and hesitations openly and honestly.
Take "no" as a learning opportunity.
Ask for feedback to understand the real reasons behind a client's decision.
Stay open to follow-up and potential new opportunities.

Action Steps:

Practice: Find a biz bestie and practice your pitch and closing conversations.
Record and Reflect: Record your discovery calls and listen to them to improve.
Ask for Feedback: If a client says no, ask them why to gain valuable insights.
Schedule a Coffee Chat: Need practice? Schedule a coffee chat with me to refine your closing skills.

**Links, Offers, and Previous Episodes Mentioned:**

Schedule a Coffee Chat with Michelle

Offer Suites

Keywords:

closing the sale, hate selling, overthinking sales, pressure in sales, sales assumptions, taking sales personally, building sales confidence, loving your offer suite, offer results, discovery calls, maximizing profit, handling sales resistance, sales feedback, overcoming sales objections, learning from sales rejection, sales follow-up, sales accountability, virtual sales strategy, business profitability, coaching offers, sales communication.

Content Strategy for Inbound Leads (Focused Action Coaching: Lori Stanley) [Ep. 241]

Fri, 24 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's Focused Action Coaching Episode, we are talking with Lori Stanley from Lori Stanley Nonprofit Consulting based in Canada. Lori found Michelle through a viral LinkedIn post and has since followed the podcast and joined her email list. In this episode, we delve into Lori’s challenges with lead generation for her consulting firm, specifically focusing on improving her content strategy on LinkedIn and fostering better inbound leads.

Key Takeaways:

Background and Introduction: Lori found Michelle through a viral LinkedIn post and started following the podcast.
Lori’s Consulting Focus: Lori specializes in strategy and strategic planning for nonprofits.
Challenges with RFPs: The time-consuming nature of RFPs and the impersonal feel.
Content Strategy on LinkedIn: Michelle discusses how Lori’s content may be too high-level and broad. Need to focus on immediate pain points and actionable advice.
Personal Touch in Content: Emphasize personal stories and connections. Be more relatable in posts to foster genuine relationships.
Using DMs for Engagement: Importance of using DMs to continue conversations and stay top-of-mind. Tips for non-salesy, authentic outreach.
Hosting Masterclasses or Virtual Coffees: Offer small workshops to give potential clients a taste of Lori’s consulting style. Virtual coffees as a way to connect and build relationships.
Feedback on “Try Before You Buy” Terminology: Avoiding language that implies a sales pitch immediately.

Action Steps

Content Adjustment: Shift from broad, high-level posts to those addressing specific, immediate pain points. Incorporate personal stories and experiences to make content more relatable.
Engage Through DMs: Use DMs to continue conversations started through content interaction. Offer value and ask for permission before sharing resources.
Offer Interactive Opportunities: Host masterclasses or virtual coffees to provide value and connect on a personal level. Utilize existing content from webinars and podcasts to create new engagement opportunities.

Connect with Lori Stanley:

- LinkedIn: Lori Stanley

- Website

Keywords:

strategic planning, podcast, LinkedIn content, inbound leads,business coaching, pain point marketing, content creation, personal connection, DM outreach, lead magnet, masterclass, live event, webinar, virtual coffee chat

Building a Profitable Offer Suite: 5 Essential Steps [Ep. 240]

Wed, 22 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I outlined the importance of having a well-structured offer suite and how it can cater to various stages of your client's journey. From DIY options to one-on-one services and everything in between, we discussed how to strategically design offer suites that not only meet the clients where they're at but also provide upsell, downsell, and cross-sell opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

Definition of an Offer Suite: A suite of offers that serve different client needs and preferences at various stages.
Types of Offer Suites: DIY, done with you, done for you, group programs, one-off projects, retainers, and more.
Serving Different Stages: How offer suites can cater to clients at different points in their business journey.
Upsell, Downsell, and Cross-Sell Opportunities: Creating paths for clients to stay engaged with your services.
Creating Lifetime Value: Increasing the lifetime value of clients by having a clear next step.

Action Steps:

Review Your Buyer Journey: Identify where you might be losing clients and look for gaps in your current offers.
Determine Your Offer Preferences: Decide which types of offers you enjoy providing and which ones you don't.
Strategically Create or Revise Your Offer Suite: Develop offers that are interlinked and provide a clear path for clients to progress.
Implement and Promote Your Offer Suite: Even if you have preferences, keep a variety of entry points to cater to different client needs.
Focus on Client Needs: Determine what your clients frequently ask for or struggle with and tailor your offers to meet those needs.

Links and Mentions:

VIP Days: If you need help creating your offer suite, I have spots available for VIP days. Use this dedicated time to work on your offers, positioning, marketing, and sales.

Money Mondays: Join "Money Mondays" for just $9 a month. It's a focused, co-working hour every Monday to help you commit to your money-making activities. Exclusive to podcast listeners and my email list.

Episode on Creating a Client Journey: Revisit our previous episode on creating a client journey for more insights on how to incorporate that into your offer suite design.

Keywords:

offer suites, client journey, DIY offer, done with me, done for you, group program, one-on-one consulting, VIP day, offer positioning, marketing, sales, upsells, downsells, cross sells, freelancing, lead nurturing, accountability, implementation, strategic planning

Business Through the Summer: Planning Tips and Strategies [Ep. 239]

Wed, 15 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, we're diving deep into planning for summer—how to handle the season, whether you’re ramping up or winding down. As summer approaches, it's crucial to strategize effectively to make the most of these warmer months, regardless of your business pace.

Key Talking Points:

Summer Business Myths: Debunking the myth that summer has to be slow and discussing how you can define your summer pace.
Planning Ahead: Importance of planning early for summer, especially if you intend to take time off.
Recurring Revenue and Client Management: Strategies for managing cash flow and client engagements during the summer months.
Business Cycles: Understanding your business seasonality and planning marketing and business activities that align with your busiest or slowest seasons.
Behind-the-Scenes Work: Using potential downtime to strategize for the upcoming busy periods like Q4 or even the next year.

Actionable Points:

Define Your Summer: Decide if you want a busy summer or a relaxed one, and plan accordingly
Financial Planning: If taking time off, ensure you have a strategy for maintaining income through passive means or by front-loading work.
Schedule Adjustments: Review and adjust your work schedule to accommodate changes like no school drop-offs which might free up some time.
Preparation for Post-Summer: Plan for getting back into full swing after summer ensuring you aren’t playing catch-up come September.
Utilize Slow Periods: If expecting a slower season, use it to get ahead on content creation, client outreaching, or administrative tasks.

Schedule a free Rapid Fire Strategy Session with Michelle

Join the Sunday Morning Brew for additional resources

business planning, seasonal business strategies, reoccurring revenue, business strategy, online business, passive income, planning for entrepreneurs, business coaching, quarterly planning, revenue planning, business consultation

Effective Use of Lead Magnets to Attract Ideal Clients [Ep. 238]

Wed, 08 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Lead magnets are essential tools in marketing, effectively drawing prospects into your business space. However, their success heavily relies on the follow-up strategies implemented once these prospects opt in. In this episode I cover the importance of having a solid plan for your lead magnets, understanding the purpose of each, and ensuring they provide genuine value to your audience.

Key Takeaways:

Effectiveness of Lead Magnets: The real value of a lead magnet lies in what happens after someone opts in—how you engage them determines the magnet's success.
Quality over Quantity: High-value, compelling lead magnets tailored to user needs are critical. It’s not just about creating numerous lead magnets but about crafting ones that resonate and address specific audience challenges.
Promotion Strategies: Having a lead magnet is just the start; promoting it consistently across different platforms ensures it reaches your target audience.
Paid vs. Free Lead Magnets: Consider paid options as they tend to attract more genuinely interested prospects.
Feedback and Adjustment: Regularly seek feedback and adjust your strategies based on how well your lead magnets are performing.

Action Steps:

Audit Your Existing Lead Magnets: Review any you’ve created in the past. Could they be improved or repromoted?
Plan Your Promotion: Develop a clear, consistent strategy for how and where you will promote your lead magnets.
Monitor and Adapt: Track the performance of your lead magnets over a set period and make necessary adjustments.

Links:

Subscribe to the Sunday Morning Brew Newsletter

Schedule a free Rapid Fire Strategy Session

Keywords:

lead magnets, email marketing, marketing strategy, lead conversion, attracting leads, low ticket offers, high-value lead magnets, ideal client, marketing tools, SEO optimization, lead tracking, sales strategy

Scaling Your Business with Strategic Frameworks [Ep. 237]

Wed, 01 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

If you’ve been looking for a structured approach to scale your offers and create repeatable systems in your business, this episode is for you! We’ll explore what frameworks are, why they are crucial for scalability, and how they differ from other systems.

Key Talking Points:

Understanding Frameworks: Learn what a framework is and how it serves as a structured approach to achieving specific business goals.
The Importance of Sequential Steps: Discover why the steps in a framework need to be followed in a specific order to ensure effectiveness.
Scalability and Repeatability: Explore how frameworks can be applied consistently across various scenarios and industries, making them an ideal option for business expansion.
Different Ways to Implement Frameworks: Whether you're in the education space or dog training, frameworks can be tailored to different industries.
Creating a Framework for Your Business: Tips on how you can create your own framework by reflecting on the common methodologies you use with clients.

Action Steps:

Reflect on Your Business Process: Review your client interactions and identify if there’s a consistent series of steps you follow. This could be the foundation for your own unique framework.
Consider Scalability: Think about how a framework could not only optimize your current business processes but also open up opportunities for scaling your operations.

Mentioned in this episode:

VIP Day: Interested in creating compelling offers and frameworks with me? Check out the VIP day option this summer tailored specifically for your business needs.

Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn

Subscribe to the Sunday Morning Brew

Keywords:

marketing, execution plan, business growth, strategic planning, business coaching, VIP days, consulting services, business frameworks, business scalability, coaching programs, offer creation, business strategies, strategic growth, methodologies, business positioning

Pre Qualify Your Clients (Focused Action Coaching: Heather Wyatt) [Ep. 236]

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Today's episode is another Focused Action Coaching sessions. I'm thrilled to share a vibrant discussion with Heather Wyatt of Goddess Getaway Waves, who's courageously navigating the retreat planning business from the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. Heather's confronting a common snag: potential clients love the idea of hosting retreats until they realize the upfront investment involved. We dissect this dilemma and strategize ways to reposition her offerings for better client alignment and commitment.

Key Points:

Heather's innovative three-tier pricing strategy for retreat planning services.
The psychological barriers potential clients face in committing to upfront payments.
How Heather's recent adjustment to a payment schedule may ease the financial hesitance of her clients.
Identifying an ideal client profile who not only has the need for retreat planning but also the ready audience and financial ability to commit.
The importance of having a pre-sold or at least a primed audience before planning a retreat to ensure success and justify the investment.
The valuable insights gained from distinguishing between potential clients who are just interested in the idea of a retreat and those who are serious about executing one.

Take Action:

If you're considering hosting a retreat, ensure you have a solid audience foundation willing to invest before seeking professional planning services.
For retreat planners, qualifying clients by their commitment level and program pricing can save time and better allocate resources to serious customers.
Explore breaking down your offerings into transparent package options to reduce client overwhelm and ease the decision-making process.

Links:

To learn about retreat planning with Heather Wyatt and unpack her various options tailored to fit your vision, visit https://goddessgetawaves.com
Interested in the live coaching sessions like the one you've just listened to? Click the link in the show notes to schedule your own focused action session.

Keywords:

coaching, consulting services, online business, high-ticket offers, business coaching, in-person masterminds.

Why Every Business Owner Should Consider Joining a Mastermind [Ep. 235]

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode I am sharing my opinion on why I think every business owners should join a mastermind.

We will talk about what masterminds are, their monumental benefit to business owners, and how they differ from group coaching programs. If you're looking to amplify your business growth and refine your strategic approach through collaborative wisdom, then understanding the role of a mastermind is paramount.

Key Points:

Definition of a Mastermind: A mastermind group is a peer-to-peer mentorship collective that helps to share knowledge, provide support, maintain accountability, and foster growth. Unlike group coaching, a mastermind focuses on the insights and feedback from peers, with a facilitator guiding the conversation.
Benefits of a Mastermind: Participating in a mastermind can offer a range of benefits including fresh perspectives on business challenges, networking opportunities, long-term strategic partnerships, and a space to process thoughts and ideas among like-minded entrepreneurs.
Diversity in Masterminds: Consider joining masterminds that are either industry-specific or those with a diverse group of entrepreneurs. Each offers unique advantages, from deep industry insights to wide-ranging experiences that can propel creative thinking and problem-solving.
Emotional Support and Accountability: Real-world examples given in the episode highlight the emotional backing and the push for clarity and progress that masterminds can provide, acting as an impromptu board of directors for your business.
Investment and Value: Mastermind groups come with different price points. It's critical to assess the value based on the facilitator's expertise and the chemistry of the group rather than the price alone.

Take Action:

Reflect on your own business' season and consider whether joining a mastermind group could provide the support and community you need to grow.
If interested in exploring mastermind groups, research options with a focus on the fit and dynamic of the group over the cost.

Mentioned in this episode:

- Interested in getting in on the power of masterminds? Apply for the Focus Visionary Mastermind at http://michelledenioconsulting.com/fvmastermind.

- For insight into the Wise Women Masterminds facilitated by April Hiatt, that I personally recommend, join her community here: https://facebook.com/groups/wisewomenmastermind/

**Previous Episodes:**

- Don't forget to listen to the additional episodes released every other Friday, focusing on live, focused action coaching sessions.

Keywords:

mastermind, business growth, peer-to-peer group, small groups, business accountability, group coaching, strategic partnerships, training program, business owner support, industry-specific mastermind, diverse mastermind groups, business collaboration, referral partners, online business building, digital marketing, business strategy, business mentorship.

Weekly Revenue Generating Actions [Ep. 234]

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you caught in the hustle without seeing the results you desire? It's time to zero in on what truly drives revenue. Discover how to identify, schedule, prioritize, and execute the actions that lead directly to business growth. By the end of this podcast, you'll have a clear, actionable plan to optimize your time and efforts for maximum profitability.

Key Takeaways:

Balancing the Grind and the Goal: Learn how to align your daily actions with the overarching goals of your business.
Identifying Money Making Activities: Understand the crucial difference between staying busy and being productive with revenue-generating tasks.
Scheduling for Success: Get strategies to carve out dedicated time in your week for these activities, ensuring they get the focus they deserve.
Prioritizing What Matters: Find out how to avoid the common pitfalls that lead to overwhelm, by focusing on a maximum of three money making actions at any given time.
Effective Execution: Break down the process into manageable steps and learn how to maintain the flow without getting overwhelmed.
Measuring and Tracking Progress: Grasp the importance of accountability and tracking your efforts to ensure they're contributing to your bottom line.

Take Action:

Audit your current growth strategy to identify what money making activities you should focus on.
Schedule a free rapid fire strategy call with me if you're ready to transform your efforts into tangible results.
Join Money Mondays for weekly co-working sessions to prioritize your revenue-generating actions.

**Previous Episodes Mentioned:**

Follow Up vs Nurture

Keywords:

money making activities, small business growth, profit increase, leads generation, sales enhancement, growth strategy, business podcast, revenue generating activities, Focus Visionary strategic reset, visibility, direct messaging, nurturing relationships, relationship building, content creation, accountability, local business, networking events, client retention

Leveraging Affiliates and Masterclasses (Focused Action Coaching: Mallika Malhotra) [Ep. 233]

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this Focused Action Coaching Session, Malika opens up about the hurdles in her business, particularly the exhaustive process of converting leads through networking, speaking opportunities, and one-on-ones. Host Michelle DeNio offers tailored advice on implementing an action-driven strategy utilizing affiliate programs and maximizing content through masterclasses. As we peel back the layers of Malika's concerns, we uncover practical solutions aimed at business growth without the cost of your sanity.

Key Points:

Recognizing the time-intensive nature of conventional lead conversion methods.
The untapped potential of affiliate programs to scale your business effortlessly.
The significance of consistent, repeatable masterclasses as a lead nurturing tool.
The practicality of formalizing and nurturing relationships with affiliates and strategic partners.

Take Action:

Evaluate the possibility of setting up a formal affiliate program for your business.
Consider creating a recurring masterclass to consolidate networking efforts and offer consistent value.
Reflect on how you can streamline content creation to focus more on depth within your niche.

Links:

To learn more about brand strategy and to connect with Malika, visit her website: https://www.mallikamalhotra.co/ and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mallikamalhotra.co
Discover the networking community where Michelle and Malika connected, the Busy People Networking group.
Apply for a FREE Focused Action Coaching Session with Michelle

Keywords:

service-based business, solopreneurs, marketing strategy, business consulting, networking, speaking opportunities, lead generation, mastermind, brand CEO, scaling business, increasing revenue, converting clients, affiliate program, referral program, strategic partners, brand strategy, niche strategy, one on one coaching, masterclass, content creation, launch period, client retention

Hidden Revenue: Recognizing What’s Already Working for Your Business [Ep. 232]

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode, we're uncovering the hidden money in your business by focusing on what's working, rather than what's not working.

Key Points:

The hidden money in business is often found by focusing on what is working, rather than what isn't.
Examples of how clients found success by identifying and expanding on what was already working in their businesses.
The tendency to overlook what's working and instead focus on what's not working.
The impact of negative focus on one's perception of business success.
The importance of dedicating efforts to what's already working, rather than constantly seeking new strategies.

Take Action:

Reflect on what's currently working in your business, whether it's a successful offer, marketing strategy, or sales approach.
Once identified, focus on amplifying and expanding what's already working instead of continuously searching for new methods.

Links:

5 Day Strategic Reset

Schedule a FREE Rapid Fire Strategy Session

Connect with me on LinkedIn

business growth strategist, sustainable business, business owners, mastermind, strategic reset, sales funnel, revenue, marketing strategy, sales strategy, networking, offer suite, offer conversion, social media, LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, client acquisition, successful business growth, business challenges, consulting, online coaching, small business success

3 Core Components for Business Growth [Ep. 231]

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, let's reflect on the flux of Q1 and talk about the the three core components crucial for business growth: a profitable offer, a strong marketing plan, and a clear sales strategy.

Key Points:

1. Profitable Offer: Understanding the importance of offering what customers want, as opposed to solely what they need.

2. Marketing Plan: Emphasizing the need for a focused marketing strategy and identifying the most effective platforms for reaching the target audience.

3. Sales Strategy: Emphasizing transparent and straightforward mechanisms to ensure potential customers understand the offer and how to purchase it.

Take Action:

Assess the profitability and demand of your current offers.
Evaluate the effectiveness of your marketing strategies and identify the primary methods of reaching your audience.
Review and refine your sales process to ensure it's clear and easily accessible for potential customers.

*Links:*

Book a Free Rapid Fire Strategy Call

Connect with me on LinkedIn

business growth, profitable offer, marketing plan, sales plan, pricing, marketing strategy, relationship marketing, social media, content marketing, SEO, organic, Google, networking, sales process, strategic plan, revenue, profit

Embracing Your Skills as a Small Business Owner [Ep. 230]

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, my goal is to try and help you as a small business owner, release the shame and guilt often experienced around business ownership and growth. I address the misconception that business owners should inherently possess all the skills necessary to run a successful business.

I explain that while individuals may be highly skilled in their respective crafts – such as graphic design, web design, or law – it is unrealistic to expect them to also be experts in business growth and operations.

Key Points:

1. Embracing the realization that being a skilled professional does not automatically translate to being a business owner.

2. Acknowledging that business-specific skills, such as data analysis, lead generation, and understanding legal requirements, may not align with an individual's core competencies.

3. Encouraging collaboration with professionals who possess the skills needed for business success.

4. Highlighting the need for continual learning and growth in business-related knowledge, and the value of seeking guidance from experts in those areas.

Take Action:

1. Reflect on and embrace your strengths and expertise as a skilled professional.

2. Identify the areas of business operation where you may need support or additional expertise, and consider seeking collaboration with professionals in those fields.

Links:

Schedule a FREE Rapid Fire Strategy Session

Connect with me on LinkedIn

business growth, solopreneurs, small business owners, business skills, graphic designer, web designer, attorney, business owner, business coach, photographer, lead generation, sales strategies, sales pipeline, business consultant

Nurturing vs. Follow-Up: Key Differences for Effective Lead Generation [Ep. 229]

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we're discussing the key differences between follow up and nurturing in sales. As we dive into this topic, I aim to clarify the distinction between these two approaches and offer practical advice on how to effectively implement them in your business.

Key Takeaways:

The distinction between follow up and nurturing in the context of sales
Identifying when to apply follow up and nurturing based on leads' actions and interests
Understanding the transactional nature of follow up versus the relationship-building aspect of nurturing
The potential for transitioning leads between follow up and nurturing based on evolving relationships
The importance of direct messaging for follow up and the role of content marketing in nurturing
Balancing follow up with relational interactions and the need for clear sales processes

Action Points:

Review your pipeline, leads, and audience to differentiate between those requiring follow-up and nurturing.
Take immediate action by either following up with leads showing specific interest or nurturing relationships with prospects through personalized interactions or valuable content.
Ensure a clear separation between the follow up and nurturing approaches, keeping the focus on sales transactions and relationship building respectively.

By understanding the distinction between follow up and nurturing, you'll be better equipped to drive conversions while fostering meaningful relationships.

Episode Mentions:

- For additional guidance on creating a customized sales process, refer to the episode on "Creating Your Sales Process."

- Join the Sunday Morning Brew to access the PDF accompanying the sales process episode for practical tools and resources.

Creating Passive Income Streams: Monetizing Old Content [Ep. 228]

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In today's episode I am discussing a strategy for creating passive income by repurposing old content and selling it. Passive income is often misunderstood, and I want to provide clarity on how to leverage existing content for additional revenue.

Passive income requires effort and is not truly passive. However, by repackaging and selling past content, small business owners and solopreneurs can create a sustainable income stream. I share my personal experience of selling workshop replays and emphasize the value of leveraging old content to generate revenue.

Key Takeaways:

Clarifying the misconception of passive income.
Utilizing old content to create additional revenue.
Emphasizing the value of questions and interactions during live sessions.
Promoting and driving traffic to the repackaged content.
Providing downsell options for potential clients.

Action Steps:

Identify old content that can be repackaged and sold for passive income.
Create simple payment links and landing pages to promote and sell repackaged content.
Consider offering the repackaged content as a downsell option for potential clients.

Episode Mentions:

- For assistance, email me at Michelle@michelledenio.com.

- The Rapid Fire Formula Workshop

Keywords:

passive income, small business owners, solopreneurs, sustainable business, profitable business, online service provider, local business

How to Plan and Execute a Successful 60-Day Business Sprint [Ep. 227]

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this insightful episode, host Michelle DeNio emphasizes the benefits and practicalities of implementing 60-day sprints in business planning. Drawing from her personal experience, she provides a comprehensive breakdown of how to structure a 60-day plan, including identifying a singular focus, planning marketing activities, content creation, behind-the-scenes tasks, and the importance of evaluating and adjusting strategies as needed.

Key Talking Points:

The limitations of shorter (30 days) and longer (90 days) planning periods.
The significance of collecting data over a 60-day period for informed decision-making.
The value of maintaining focus and preventing distraction with a 60-day plan.
The importance of reviewing and potentially discarding strategies or tools after a 60-day period.

Take Action Tips:

Evaluate your current business planning strategy and consider implementing a 60-day sprint.
Identify a singular focus for your next 60-day period and outline your marketing activities, content creation, and behind-the-scenes tasks accordingly.
Reflect on existing strategies or tools that may need reevaluation after a 60-day period.

Mentioned in this episode:

- For more information and resources, schedule a free Rapid Fire Strategy call at www.michelldenioconsulting.com.

- Connect with Michelle on LinkedIn to stay updated on business insights and upcoming events.

Tune in to The Podcast to Amplify Show to learn how to launch and monetise your podcast so you can build a sustainable online business without relying on social media https://the-podcast-to-amplify.captivate.fm/listen

Keywords:

business planning, strategy, quarterly planning, 90 days, annual planning, strategic planning, twelve week year

Pricing on Your Website: It's Time to Stop Playing Sales Games [Ep. 226]

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I passionately advocate for transparency in pricing on business websites. I feel strongly that not having your pricing accessible to potential clients is outdated and counterproductive. I tackle the reasons behind the reluctance to display prices, debunking myths, and offering solutions to facilitate better client-business interactions.

Key Points:

The outdated sales psychology tactic of not sharing pricing upfront
Risks and drawbacks of not having pricing accessible
Balancing custom services and transparent pricing
Strategies for self-qualification and building relationships with potential clients
Actionable steps for business owners to implement pricing transparency

Take Action Steps

Evaluate whether your pricing is accessible on your website or landing page
Determine reasons behind any reluctance to display pricing
Implement pricing ranges and minimums to help potential clients self-qualify
Incorporate pricing questions in discovery call intake forms for better pre-qualification
Consider offering free relationship-building calls or value-added engagement regardless of readiness to hire
Redirect focus from hiding pricing to providing value and building rapport

**Links and Offers:**

- For more insights and practical advice, check out our previous episode on client communication (link to previous episode)

Join the conversation and share your experience with pricing transparency by connecting with me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelledenio/

Creating a Personalized Sales Funnel to Grow Your Business

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode of "The Real Truth about Business," we dive into the often-dreaded topic of sales processes. Host Michelle DeNio provides insights and tips on building a unique sales process tailored to your business and style, emphasizing the importance of confidence and relationship building in the sales journey.

Key Points

Understanding your business and unique value proposition
Understanding the client's buying process and needs
Identifying your selling style and matching it to your ideal client's buying style
Importance of relationship building and effective communication
Mapping out the steps in the sales process: attract, build relationship, nurture, present offers, close, ask for feedback
The significance of customizing the sales process to fit your business and buyer behavior
Owning the sales process, building confidence, and reframing the perspective of sales as a service

Action Steps

Review your business's unique value proposition and understand your client's buying process.
Identify your selling style and align it with your ideal clients' buying behaviors.
Map out the steps in your sales process, customize the process to fit your business and buyer behavior.
Build confidence and own the sales process.

Links:

- For a strategic focus intensive with Michelle DeNio, book here

- Listen to the episode about attraction marketing versus relationship marketing

-Sign up for the Sunday Morning Brew

Passion vs. Paycheck: Saying Yes, Chasing Money, and Finding Passion [Ep. 224]

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Introduction:

In this episode I am discussing the topic of Passion vs. Paycheck: Saying Yes, Chasing Money, and Finding Passion. I delve into the controversial aspect of chasing a paycheck versus pursuing one's passion and provide insights on finding a balance for business growth and sustainability.

Key Points:

1. The importance of chasing a paycheck, especially in the early stages of business, to gain experience and financial stability.

2. Upholding mental health while balancing financial stability and client satisfaction.

3. Setting boundaries and making short-term decisions for long-term business goals is significant.

4. Analyzing the profitability of clients and the value of time when chasing a paycheck.

5. Michelle encourages multiple streams of revenue and emphasizes the need for balance in business decisions.

6. The temporary nature of chasing a paycheck and the learning opportunities it presents.

Actionable Steps:

- Evaluate the balance between financial stability and mental well-being in chasing a paycheck.

- Track time and determine the profitability of clients to make informed business decisions.

- Consider setting short-term goals for financial stability while working towards long-term business growth.

Closing:

If you need assistance in navigating the balance between passion and a paycheck or making strategic business decisions, book a FREE Rapid Fire Strategy Call with Michelle for personalized guidance. Don’t forget to leave a review on Apple or Spotify and share this episode with a friend to help the show grow.

Links and Offers:

- Visit my website: www.michelledenioconsulting.com

- #100coffeechatsclub Speed Networking: www.100coffeechatsclub.com

Business Growth | Strategic Planning | Dream Clients | Profitable Business |

Thriving in the Daily Grind while Scaling for Growth [Ep. 223]

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I am sharing the importance of understanding how to balance the daily grind with long-term business goals. We will talk about the importance of finding a happy medium between the two and provide actionable insights for achieving this balance.

Summary of the Episode:

The episode focuses on the struggle of balancing daily tasks with visionary goals and offers practical advice for managing these effectively within the framework of the "focus visionary." The key is to recognize that growth occurs at the intersection of the daily grind and goal-oriented, proactive activities. Throughout the discussion, I offer strategies for prioritizing, time management, and proactive energy allocation.

Key Takeaways

Understanding the concept of balancing the grind and the goal within the focus visionary framework.
Identifying and managing reactive and proactive tasks to achieve growth.
Strategies for managing daily operations, including prioritization and time management.
Incorporating strategic planning and focused actions to accomplish long-term goals.
The necessity of periodic evaluation and adjustment within the 60-day focus plan.

Action Steps:

1. Conduct a thorough assessment of daily tasks and explore opportunities for delegation or outsourcing.

2. Implement tools and techniques for managing reactive tasks, such as email management features, to enhance proactive work.

3. Develop a focused action plan within 60-day segments, acknowledging the necessary balance between immediate tasks and strategic goals.

4. Seek professional guidance if struggling to balance daily tasks and long-term business objectives effectively.

How to work with Michelle:

-Schedule a FREE Rapid Fire Strategy Call

-Explore my 1:1 Strategic Consulting Packages

Have you niched yourself too far? [Ep. 222]

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I discuss the potential drawbacks of niching oneself too far in business. Drawing from a recent mastermind conversation, I delve into the limitations of being overly niche and the importance of educating your clients about the breadth of your services.

Summary:

I address the common advice in the online space to niche down and focus on a specific area. While niching down may have its benefits, I shed light on the possible constraints that come with it. By sharing personal experiences and examples, I highlight the need for effective communication and education about the full range of services you can offer.

Key Talking Points:

1. The Pitfalls of Over-Niching: Exploring the limitations and missed opportunities caused by overly narrowing your business focus.

2. Educating Your Audience: Emphasizing the importance of clearly communicating the full scope of your expertise and services to clients and prospects.

3. Strategic Positioning: Leveraging the balance between specific marketing focus and the versatility of services offered to maximize client benefit and business growth.

Points to Take Action:

- Reflect on your own business approach and evaluate whether you might be too narrowly niche. Consider how you can better educate your audience about the breadth of your services.

- Explore opportunities to communicate with clients, prospects, and partners proactively about the various ways you can help them achieve their objectives.

Links:

For the strategic reflection worksheet mentioned in the episode, sign up for the Sunday Morning Brew to access the resource library.

The Growth Stage is the Best Stage [Ep. 221]

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I want to chat with you about the growth stage of entrepreneurship and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating this stage.

We talk about the difference between growth and scaling and encourages business owners to focus on sustainable growth rather than rushing to scale.

I also believe that the growth stage is one of the most underserved markets of business owners in the $40,000 to $120,000 range and emphasizes the power and profitability of the growth stage.

I urge you to sit in the growth stage, honor it, and enjoy the journey.

Key Takeaways

Recognize and celebrate the growth stage of your business
Focus on sustainable growth rather than rushing to scale
Understand the difference between growth and scaling
There are multiple ways to scale your business, including scaling time, profits, revenue, and team members
The growth stage is powerful and profitable, and many successful businesses operate in this stage
Sit in the growth stage, honor it, and enjoy the journey

Connect with Michelle:

Coffee Chat

Instagram

Finding joy and having fun with content creation and storytelling with Guest Matthew Allyn [Ep. 220]

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Michelle interviews Matt Allyn, a content creator and storytelling expert. They discuss the overwhelming nature of the content game and how to find a content strategy that resonates with you. Matt shares his journey from engineering to content creation and emphasizes the importance of authenticity in connecting with your audience. They also explore the power of personal stories and the enjoyment that can come from the process of content creation. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to choose their own path and create content that aligns with their passions and values. In this conversation, Matt Allyn discusses the power of personal stories and how they can connect with others on a deep level. He emphasizes that everyone's story matters and that it's not about achieving grand success, but rather the universal themes and struggles we all experience. Matt encourages individuals to understand themselves on a deeper level and uncover their true purpose. He highlights the importance of taking action and boldly sharing one's truth, while finding safety within oneself and reclaiming personal power. Matt also emphasizes the need for authentic content creation and the value of seeking guidance and support in the entrepreneurial journey.

Takeaways

Everyone's story matters, and it's not about achieving grand success, but rather the universal themes and struggles we all experience.
Understanding yourself on a deeper level and uncovering your true purpose is essential for personal growth and success.
Taking action and boldly sharing your truth is crucial for connecting with others and attracting your ideal audience.
Finding safety within yourself and reclaiming your personal power allows you to overcome fear and judgment.
Authentic content creation is key to building a genuine connection with your audience.
Seeking guidance and support from mentors and like-minded individuals can greatly enhance your entrepreneurial journey.
Marketing yourself should be a fun and enjoyable process, and it's important to love the journey of self-discovery and growth.

About our Guest:

Matt Allyn helps those who love what they do connect deeper with themselves and their audience by uncovering their stories and sharing them effectively in their content.

He has helped over 100 online coaches gain clarity in their message and stand out online by speaking their truth and stepping into their power.

Matt is also the co-other of the best selling book Heart Centered Leadership.

Subscribe to Matt's Newsletter: Https://matthewallyn.me/newsletter

Enjoy his Free course “Make Beautiful Content” : Https://www.matthewallyn.me/beautiful

Connect on IG: https://www.instagram.com/matthew.allyn/

Striking the balance between stretch and attainable goals [Ep. 219]

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we are chatting about the problem with stretch goals and why I'm not a fan of them. She emphasizes the importance of setting attainable goals that are relevant to one's business and resources. Michelle highlights the discouragement that comes from setting unrealistic goals and encourages celebrating milestones along the way. She also emphasizes the need for taking incremental steps and addressing limiting beliefs. Michelle concludes by urging listeners to start the year off right by setting goals that are both challenging and achievable.

Takeaways

Set goals that are attainable and relevant to your business and resources.
Avoid setting unrealistic stretch goals that may lead to discouragement.
Celebrate milestones along the way to stay motivated and encouraged.
Address limiting beliefs and focus on the intangible actions that will lead to tangible results.

If we haven't connected yet - I would LOVE to chat with you! Let's share a virtual cup of coffee and you can tell me all about you and your business.

Connect with me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_denio/

To learn more about customized 1:1 business growth support packages, visit our website or email michelle@michelledenio.com

The year of LESS to achieve MORE [Ep. 218]

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I wanted to be open and honest and share my vision for 2024 and the importance of doing less to accomplish more.

To emphasize the need to focus on what truly matters and to say no to obligations that don't align with one's goals.

In this episode we will be discussing my key success factors, including protecting her schedule and avoiding overwhelm, leaning into the idea that more is NOT always better and emphasizing the importance of customizing strategic growth plans.

Takeaways

Focus on doing less to accomplish more.
Say no to obligations that don't align with your goals.
Slow down and stop with the feelings that everything has to be done RIGHT NOW.
Build habits gradually and avoid overwhelm.
Customize your strategic growth plan and reject the 'more is better' mentality.

Mentioned in this episode:

Join the Sunday Morning Brew and get 52 weeks of actionable freebies!

Chat about 1:1 Strategic Consulting

2023 Wrap up – 5 random thoughts and strategies to end the year well [Ep. 217]

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Summary

In this episode, Michelle reflects on the year and shares a mishmash of topics. She expresses gratitude for her listeners and invites feedback for the podcast. Michelle emphasizes the importance of normalizing communication in sales and encourages people to let others know when they are no longer interested. She reminds listeners that they are the boss of their own businesses and should make decisions that align with their preferences. Michelle also highlights the significance of tracking lead sources and using program names that tell a story. Lastly, she suggests writing a letter to reflect on the year and looks forward to an exciting 2024.

Takeaways

Normalize communication in sales by letting people know when you are no longer interested.
Remember that you are the boss of your own business and have the final say in decision-making.
Track lead sources to identify what strategies are working and where to focus your efforts.
Use program names that tell a story and engage your audience.
Write a letter to reflect on the year and express gratitude for the lessons and growth.

Links:

If we haven't connected yet - I would LOVE to chat with you! Let's share a virtual cup of coffee and you can tell me all about you and your business.

Connect with me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/michelle_denio/

To learn more about customized 1:1 business growth support packages, visit our website or email michelle@michelledenio.com

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