Do It My Way Podcast

We have all been there, you think you can do something yourself to save a buck. Problem is you end up spending your valuable time trying to figure out something you have no knowledge of to avoid spending money and it ends up costing you way more money in the long run.   A guy called me over the weekend asking for advice on creating a new website for him because his girlfriend created the first one and they broke up so she was threatening to take it down. He hesitated on spending the money thinking he could do it himself. I asked him how many websites he had created and he said, "well, none." I reminded him of the time it would take for him to figure out how to create a website when he could be working on his business and hand it over to an expert.   It got me thinking about the reasons hiring a marketing expert will save you time and money in the long run. Check out "5 Reasons You Need a Marketing Pro" on the next episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast.   As a business owner, your time is your most valuable asset. Spend it wisely!

There are times in life when the unexpected happens and family becomes a priority over work. My sweet Dad was recently diagnosed with brain cancer and after a long, courageous battle, spent a week on hospice and peacefully passed. This was not something I could plan, but as soon as he entered hospice, I knew I needed to spend every waking moment with him until he passed. Work had to wait. I hadn't planned on being off and definitely not for 14 days, but I am so glad I did.   Guess what happened? We landed a big client. Our email marketing still went out. Our social media still had daily content, our clients were still billed on the correct day, our meetings ran without a hitch and our clients' needs were met. Why? We have systems and processes in place. We have automated emails, social media scheduling, and automated billing.   Check out the 5 game-changing tips to step away from your business and still make money on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!  

I met with a wellness company the other day to pitch a marketing plan. They needed leads ASAP and I could have just pitched a Facebook + Instagram ad campaign and got the business, but that is not what they needed. Their website had no human connection, no emotion, just scientific facts about their product that no one will relate to. I suggested they do a website rebrand and add real stories of how the product had helped so many people get life changing results, including the owner!   The cost overwhelmed them, which I understand, but they were looking at marketing all wrong. You have to stop thinking of marketing as a cost and start seeing it as an investment for long term success! Marketing isn't an expense—it's the growth engine of your business! Check out the 5 ways investing in marketing will pay off for your business on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!  

I just had a friend who lost her entire house and everything in it in the recent fires we had in Oklahoma. Such an incredibly devastating thing to lose all of your children's baby books, your wedding ring, your daughter's wedding dress for her upcoming wedding, your parents and grandparents family heirlooms, not to mention every single thing you own. Experiencing a fire that destroys everything can be devastating, but it can also lead to profound perspective shifts, resilience, and personal growth. One important lesson I learned from watching her go through this is that things are not important and can be replaced. Your family and friends are way more important than any item. To watch the community rise up and step in to help has been incredible to see. The most valuable things in life aren't possessions—they're people, relationships, and memories. Losing material things definitely hurts, but it also clarifies what truly matters.  When faced with loss, gratitude for life itself becomes the ultimate takeaway and you learn really quickly how strong and resilient you really are. Tune into the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast as I share the biggest lessons learned finding resilience after destruction.

What if I told you that you have been missing out on the one thing that would bring you time freedom and financial freedom to live life on your terms with no regrets, hesitation or fear?  There is one thing and one thing only to create time freedom to spend more quality time with your family and financial freedom so you don't have to be dependent on anyone and can make financial decisions without any stress. The answer is YOU building your personal brand so that you can control your own destiny and DO IT YOUR WAY! Building a personal brand is no longer optional—it is absolutely essential! Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate leader, or someone looking to make an impact, your brand is the foundation of your success! In my latest podcast episode, I am going to show you the four reasons WHY you MUST build a personal brand to control your own destiny and DO IT YOUR WAY! But before I do, I want to share a quick story with you why I created a personal brand. I was a young mom working 12 hour days feeling like I was missing out on my kids' lives.  I was desperate to find a new way when my son was born 12 weeks early which flipped my world upside down. After being in the NICU for 77 days we finally went home and I knew there was no way I could go back to that corporate job. There wasn't a boss in the world that would let me off work every other day to take him to the doctor. I knew it was time to control my own destiny. After 10 years working in television, I decided to become an entrepreneur so I could create time freedom by launching a niche website for moms in the Tulsa area called 918moms.com.  I don't know what your why is today, but I know you want time freedom, financial freedom and to control your own destiny!  Check out the four ways a personal brand will do THAT for you on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

Last week I had the pleasure of speaking to Oklahoma State University entrepreneurship students in a class called The First 100 Days of Launching a Business. Nothing energizes me more than being in Stillwater on campus with smart students ready to take on the world!   The first 100 days of a startup are critical for setting a strong foundation. Here's  a few of the tips I shared with these students: 1. First you need to have a clear Vision & Mission for your business. I can't be all about money or you will fizzle out quickly! What is your purpose, what are your core values, and what is your long-term vision? 2. Business Structure Setup– Be sure to register your business with the state by setting up an LLC or corporation and set up a business bank account.   3. Identify Your Target Market – Conduct market research to understand your ideal customer and analyze competitors to differentiate yourself. No money for market research? I get it! Conduct your own research by asking family and friends about your product or service. What do they like? Not like? Is it solving a problem for them? How much would they pay for it?   Find out the 10 steps you must take with The First 100 Days: Your Startup Survival Guide on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!   Not sure where to start with your business idea? Book a free consultation by visiting https://deedradeterman.com/ and click on GET STARTED!

Just when you think you have your marketing down, a new trend starts getting traction and you feel like you are missing out if you don't jump on it! I remember when my daughter told me skinny jeans were out and I had just spent $200 on a really cute pair! It made me question my purchase because we all want to be on trend!   In marketing, things change as fast as the skinny jean trend, so you have to stay on top of what is working and what no longer makes sense for your business. I love to research new marketing trends by listening to podcasts and reading case studies on brands or agencies who are trying them and having success!   I put together a list of 10 of the hottest marketing trends we are loving right now. Not all of these are going to work and not all of them will make sense for your business, but if you try out one or two and go all in, I can bet you will see some traction! Let me know what trend you are loving now.   Check out the Top Marketing Trends We Are Loving Now on the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

Who's really on your team when things get tough? Adversity has a way of exposing who's truly invested in your business and who's just along for the ride. The real question is:  

Are You Chasing Followers Instead of Clients? Let's be real—followers don't pay the bills… clients do. Yet, so many entrepreneurs focus on likes, views, and comments instead of what actually matters: building a brand that attracts paying customers.  In this episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast I'm breaking down:   ✅ How to convert attention into revenue   ✅ The difference between vanity metrics & real business growth   ✅ The #1 shift that will make your brand profitable   If you're ready to stop chasing clout and start making real money, this episode is for YOU.  Happy Listening!  

Are you a high-level female CEO or entrepreneur looking to expand your reach, attract dream clients, and position yourself as a leader in your industry?   You already have the expertise, the influence, and the vision. But are you leveraging your voice to scale your impact?     Here's the truth: You need to own your platform!  In the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast, I share three reasons you need to launch a podcast:     Why female CEOs/entrepreneurs NEED a podcast to establish authority    How to turn your voice into revenue and opportunities    The secret to scaling your impact—without adding more to your plate  Your voice is your power! It's time to use it! Check out the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast now! P.S. Hit reply and tell me—have you ever thought about launching a podcast but aren't sure where to start.

We all face adversity in life and sometimes everything seems to hit you smack in the face all at once. Times of adversity teach you what is important in life and who is truly in your corner.   Can you imagine hearing the words, "you have brain cancer?" That is what happened to my Dad right after Christmas. It wasn't anything we were expecting because he didn't really have any major symptoms. Talk about your life flipping upside down in one unexpected moment. He was told he has an inoperable tumor the size of a tangerine in his brain.   I saw my Dad processing the news, not saying a word. I could only imagine what was going through his head. A little later there was a nurse shift change and a new nurse walked in (probably having no idea he was just told he has a brain tumor) and asked how he was doing. He looked at her with the biggest smile and said, "I am great!" He later went on to joke that he was so smart they had to remove part of his brain to study it and had the nurses all laughing.   That puts life into perspective right there. Adversity happens for you, not to you and YOU CHOOSE how you will react in that moment.   Find out What Brain Cancer Has Taught Me About Life in the next episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

Dawn Chesser was a stay-at-home mom when life threw her an unexpected challenge—cancer. But she didn't just fight; she found a new purpose. Out of her own kitchen, she created Sixth Day Snacks, starting with her homemade salsa. What began as a side hustle to pay off medical bills has now grown into a thriving family business. In this episode, Dawn shares her powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and turning adversity into opportunity. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

One way I am going to elevate my game in 2025 is to surround myself with successful entrepreneurs that are 3-4 steps ahead of me by joining a mastermind. There's no better way to elevate every area of your life than to hang around people doing what you want to do!   Are you wanting to get in shape and feel great in the new year? Join a gym or online fitness community and get going!   Are you wanting to take your business to $1 million or $10 million? Hire a business coach or join a mastermind.   Are you wanting to know how to integrate AI into your daily processes? Take a course or listen to a podcast on how AI is changing business and marketing. Check out 5 Ways to Elevate Your Game on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

We've all been there, you have a crazy fun weekend, maybe even take a road trip, and Monday morning comes and you have the Monday blues and you are not prepared for the week. You get to the office, open your computer and stare at it wondering what you are supposed to be doing. You forget your lunch, haven't even looked at your calendar to see what you have for the day. You start scrolling Instagram and the next thing you know 45 minutes have gone by. Oh, and you are tired!   Well, this way of life is not setting you up for a successful week! Just like you start your day with a morning routine, you need to start your week with a Sunday routine. I have found when I am intentional with my time on Sundays preparing for the week, I am much happier and more productive.   Check out "What I do on Sundays to Prepare for the Week" on the next episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!   What do you do on Sundays to prepare for the week?

We all have things that we need to leave behind to move forward and reach our 2025 goals. Maybe it's a toxic relationship, neglecting self care, overcommitting, or comparing yourself to others. We are all guilty of these habits but once you let go of them, you will find yourself feeling free and able to tackle all that the new year has to offer.   In this episode, I share 8 of the most common habits that women CEOs and entrepreneurs deal with on a daily basis. I'd love to hear what you are letting go of and not bringing into the new year!   Happy Listening!

Your health should be your number one priority. If you do not have your health, you cannot enjoy your wealth! Your business is absolutely affected by how you feel. The healthier and more dedicated to wellness you are, the better you will perform and an leader. Every year at the beginning of the year, I reflect on my wellness and health goals for the next year. The older I get the more important it is to maintain a life of wellness. I came up with five wellness tips that I will be implementing into 2025 as daily goals. I encourage you to come up with your wellness goals that you will achieve this year. Not everyone's goals should be the same as they need to meet you where you are at. However, I promise you if you implement these five wellness tips your life will be changed! What will your goals be? Here's to a happy healthy 2025.

Jill Donovan's journey from lawyer to founder of the iconic bracelet brand Rustic Cuff is nothing short of extraordinary. For years, Jill wrestled with finding her true passion, hoping her mentor, Oprah Winfrey, might guide her to clarity. But her full-circle moment came in an unexpected way, sparking the creation of a brand that's touched countless lives. In this episode, Jill shares her inspiring story, from the challenges of stepping away from a legal career to the life-changing decision to follow her heart and start something new. She opens up about the pivotal moments that led to Rustic Cuff's success, the lessons she's learned as a business owner, and the joy of creating something that brings people together. Whether you're chasing a dream or looking for inspiration to take that leap, Jill's story is a must-listen. Tune in to hear how she turned uncertainty into her greatest triumph.

At the end of the year, I always like to look back and assess how the year went personally and professionally. This is being real with the good, the bad and the ugly! I also do this for my team and meet with them one on one to see how things went from their perspective. I am always surprised at the things I learn from them! I only have 15 team members so you'd think I would know everything that is going on, but it is impossible to know until you ask!   Here are the questions that help me assess 2024:   1) What worked really great for you in 2024? 2) What was your biggest challenge? 3) What do you want to learn in 2025? 4) What are the opportunities we are not taking advantage of that we should?   Once I get a good assessment of 2024, I have them share with me three big goals personally and three big goals professionally for 2025. Instead of overwhelming them with 20 goals, we keep it simple so they can focus on three things and see success! Find out how you can achieve more by doing less in 2025 on the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

I get hundreds of cold emails and LinkedIn messages every day where someone is trying to sell me something. Everyone has a product or service that they say I can't live without, but very few make it past my delete button.   A "cold" email is an unsolicited email sent to someone who does not have a prior relationship with you, typically used for business. The goal is usually to introduce yourself, present an idea, request a meeting, or offer a product or service in a way that generates interest. I get at least 3 a day where someone says "I can help you write a book or create a podcast." I'm thinking, hmmm, if you did a little research before sending you would know that I have a book and I have a podcast! What a waste of time! I realize they are probably sending the same email to 1000 people and many don't have a book or a podcast, but why would I ever answer if they can't take 5 minutes to do a little research before sending? Surely their approach doesn't work on anyone.   Another one I got this week was from a woman who is a fitness expert with 25 years of experience and she wanted to be on the DO IT MY WAY podcast as a guest. She sent 3-4 paragraphs with all of her credentials and why she would be great and then her email signature just said "Natalie." I'm like, Natalie who? No last name, no website address, no LinkedIn or Instagram profile link. How does she not have an email signature with her website or social media channels if she is soliciting to be on someone's podcast? I'm not going to Google and dig around trying to find info on her to see if she's a good fit. I assume she's not based on her email signature!   Every once in a while, I'll get a really clever email where someone has researched D2 Branding and the clients we work with, they have read our testimonials and even referenced a case study or commented on a specific podcast interview I did. Now, those are the only people who peak my interest!   Email mistakes happen every day but can be avoided if you follow these easy six steps. Check out the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY podcast to avoid these cold email mistakes and start to get some responses with your outreach.

I met with a woman yesterday who was undecided about the name of her business. She found D2 Branding on Google a year before and we had this same conversation. She had many things get in the way of life, including having a baby, but she spent an entire year thinking of it and hadn't done anything about it. Fast forward to our conversation yesterday where she expressed getting doubts from her husband and her mom on the name change. She wanted to go with her gut, but was getting caught up in the pressure and noise around her.    She needed a coach to validate her idea. It got me thinking, most of the clients I have the honor of coaching use me to give them confidence in executing their idea! I am not emotionally attached to the idea and can objectively give advice and a road map of where to go. I came up with 5 Reasons Business Coaches Give You Confidence on the next episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast.   If you have an idea and would like a free 30 minute consultation, go to DeedraDeterman.com and click on Get Started!

In this inspiring episode of the Do It My Way Podcast, I sit down with Tulsa television icon LeAnne Taylor, beloved morning news anchor on News on 6. Known for her warmth, professionalism, and deep commitment to her community, LeAnne shares her journey from the newsroom to becoming a powerful advocate for women. She opens up about her fight against breast cancer, how it shaped her perspective on life, and the lessons she's learned along the way. From balancing a demanding career to making a lasting impact in Tulsa, LeAnne is the embodiment of grace, resilience, and strength. Tune in to hear her incredible story, her advice for women navigating challenges, and how she continues to make a difference in the community.

I am so excited to finally say I am a published author! I never thought those words would come out of my mouth! I just released my book, DO IT MY WAY: Empowering Women to Do Life Their Way By Creating a Personal Brand Business.   There's no way I would have written the book if I didn't have a coach break it down to these six easy steps. It can seem very overwhelming to get all of your thoughts in writing, make it sound really good and be something that people want to read! If you have a book idea in your head but aren't sure where to start, this podcast episode is for you! Check out "How to Write a Book in 6 Easy Steps" and you'll be on your way to becoming an author!

I used to fill up my days with meetings and then anytime there happened to be "down time" I would work on personal development, strategic plans, or maybe hit a yoga class. It wasn't very productive and I would find myself never getting to those "extra" things because a fire would be happening with a client or a team member that needed my attention in that down time. It wasn't until I started to schedule EVERYTHING that I started to feel accomplished and my days became productive. Whether it was my 5am workout or when I was going to meal prep or scheduling time to learn about the ever changing marketing industry, I had it all in my calendar. At the end of every week, I would look at the priorities for the next week and schedule it out.  As CEOs and entrepreneurs we often get caught up in playing defense with our schedule putting out fires as soon as they come vs. strategically planning our days. This creates chaos and important things never get finished. If you find yourself doing the same, check out the latest DO IT MY WAY Podcast episode "The Power of Proactive Scheduling" to get a game plan started this week! How do you plan out your days to be the most productive?

Lisa Riley shares her incredible journey from refinery manager to owning three Pinot's Palette franchises in Tulsa. Known for her authenticity and fearless drive, Lisa talks about embracing a major career pivot, the surprises of running an art studio, and learning to prioritize family and health. She opens up about how cancer reshaped her priorities, the power of trusting her team, and how she now starts every day with gratitude. Tune in for Lisa's down-to-earth advice on passion, resilience, and finding joy in the little things!

I had the honor of judging the Oklahoma State Homecoming Court last week. There were 30 candidates (15 for Queen, 15 for King) and they did a speed dating round for us to get to know the candidates. Each student had two minutes to share a little about themselves and talk about their biggest accomplishment while at OSU and we quickly judged them on appearance, communication, confidence, eye contact and enthusiasm for all things OSU. The students were all so bright but several really stood out because they had perfected their two minute "elevator pitch." It got me thinking about the CEOs and entrepreneurs I work with and how important it is to be able to articulate exactly who you are, the problem you are solving for your ideal client, your X-Factor and a call to action in two minutes or less. People don't have the time or the patience to listen to a long pitch. Be concise. Deliver with enthusiasm. Share with them the next step in working with you. Don't miss the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast where I share all of the important things you need to include in your pitch.

Something I have struggled with over the years is progress over perfection. If it doesn't feel "perfect" I don't like putting it out there whether it's on my social media or on a podcast episode. I had a goal to write a book by the time I was 50 and guess what? I'm 51 and my book is launching in a couple of weeks. I struggled getting it out on time because I wanted it to be perfect. Guess what would have happened if I waited until I thought it was perfect? I would have never launched it! Perfectionism often holds back female CEOs and entrepreneurs. We are too worried what we look like, what other people will say vs. thinking of the person on the other side that you are helping. So, if you have a project you have been holding onto until it's perfect, it's time to get it out into the world! Someone needs what you have to succeed! Don't miss the latest episode of the  DO IT MY WAY Podcast,  Progress Over Perfection!

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Kathy Taylor, former mayor of Tulsa, successful businesswoman, and a relentless advocate for community growth. From leading a city to empowering future female entrepreneurs, Kathy's journey is nothing short of remarkable. We explore her diverse career, her dedication to lifelong learning, and her drive to break down barriers for women in business. Kathy shares powerful lessons from her time as mayor and business leader, offering invaluable advice to women seeking to make their mark. Whether you're just starting out or looking for the motivation to keep going, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to take bold steps in your own journey.

We have been doing a lot of influencer marketing lately for clients and seeing some really great results! We all follow influencers that we like and trust and we've probably bought products because they said they were great. Influencers are able to "influence" their audience in such a powerful way.   Influencer marketing offers several benefits, making it an effective strategy to add to your marketing mix. Here are three reasons why: 1. Targeted Audience Reach: Influencers often have a dedicated, niche audience allowing businesses to connect with potential customers on a "human" level. 2. Enhanced Brand Awareness: Collaborating with influencers helps expose your brand to a broader audience, increasing visibility and recognition in a more organic way. 3. Improved Engagement: Influencers have strong engagement with their followers, and their content tends to generate more likes, comments, and shares, helping brands foster a more interactive connection with potential customers. Check out the latest DO IT MY WAY Podcast to see if influencer marketing is right for you!

As I was driving home this past weekend, I noticed there were phonebooks placed at every mailbox in my neighborhood. I had to laugh as I thought to myself, "Is there really still a phonebook?" and better yet, "Are people really still advertising in the phonebook?" Sure enough, it was a full blown phonebook with ads throughout. I took it to work because all of the advertisers in it are GREAT candidates to be educated on the power of digital marketing. And, honestly I would love to hire the salesperson who was able to get all of those people to buy something everyone throws away! That's one heck of a seller! That's what brought me to talk about today's episode which focuses on the power of digital marketing, tracking a lead and following up with your lead. If you are out there and aren't sure how digital marketing works, I would love to set up a free consultation with you. Just go to D2Branding.com and click on Get a Quote! In the meantime, check out the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

I had an amazing conversation with Hannah Arnaud, owner of The Scout Guide - Tulsa. Hannah's path has taken her from a corporate office, to the classroom, and to a nonprofit before becoming an entrepreneur. She shares the pivotal moments that led her to become a business owner and the community she's passionately built around it—all while raising three young children under the age of four. Join us for an inspiring conversation about leadership, balance, and the power of community.  

Back to school time has me thinking about work/life balance. It is always such a crazy time getting the kids back in gear for school, making lunches, taking them to all of their after school activities all while you are trying to run a business! As a new empty nester, I am wishing those days were back, but remember all too well the hustle it took getting everyone out the door in the mornings!   Balancing work and family life can be challenging for working moms.    Here are five tips to help get you through the school year: 1. Prioritize and Set Boundaries: Clearly define your priorities, both at work and home. Set boundaries to protect your time. When you are home and it's family time, you are not on your phone or computer. 2. Delegate and Ask for Help: Don't hesitate to delegate tasks at work and home. Whether it's asking your partner, hiring help, or getting assistance from coworkers, sharing responsibilities can lighten your load. 3. Use a Flexible Schedule: If possible, arrange a flexible work schedule that accommodates your family's needs. Flexibility, like working from home or adjusting hours, can provide the necessary balance between work and family time. 4. Make Time for Self-Care: Prioritizing your own well-being is crucial. Carve out time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it's exercise, hobbies, or just relaxing. Taking care of yourself helps you manage stress and be more present in all areas of your life. 5. Stay Organized and Plan Ahead: Use calendars, to-do lists, or apps to keep track of work deadlines, family activities, and personal time. Planning meals, preparing for the next day the night before, and setting routines can help you manage your time more effectively and reduce daily stress.   I don't have all of the answers, but once I started to protect my family time and not answer emails or work during that time, my life got easier! Check out the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast on how to find work/life balance!

I met with a client the other day who was questioning continuing their social media content posting. They had gotten over 45,000 impressions on their posts in the last couple of months but weren't sure if it was converting to buyers. I get it, when you don't see a return on something you are investing in, it can get frustrating. They weren't doing any video, just static posts on Facebook + Instagram, which is a great start.   Content is not a quick game. You don't suddenly start posting on Instagram and get orders, however you are building up credibility, start to get engagement, and increase your brand awareness. If you want to see a return on your investment, you need to do social media advertising, but you will still need to have fresh content up at least 3x week with your ad campaign.    Content is KING for several reasons that I am sharing on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast at DeedraDeterman.com/podcast! 

In this episode, I sat down with LaTonya Pratt, leader of the nonprofit "In Tulsa," which connects job seekers to opportunities. LaTonya shares her journey from aspiring to be the next Oprah to becoming a leader in HR and a champion for women. She discusses her role as a mom, wife, and career woman, fashion influencer, and the importance of finding your superpower. Tune in to hear about her faith, fashion journey, and advice for job seekers. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, authenticity, and empowering others!

I was reminded of why it is so important to give more than you receive yesterday when I got a call from an attorney out of L.A. that I talked to back in 2020. He saw something I posted on LinkedIn when we were in the thick of Covid and things weren't looking so good for business owners. I felt helpless myself, but decided that I had knowledge that others could learn from in a time where people really needed it. I started posting marketing tips and ways to market without spending money to help those that put a hold on their marketing because they were trying to keep paying their team. This meant I was giving advice on ways for my own clients to quit and try to do it on their own.   This attorney reached out to me and asked for a zoom call because he had some marketing questions. I did this with many, many people during that time and it was honestly therapeutic for me to not think about my own business and worry about paying my own team. I ended up talking to him for an hour and a half giving him advice on ways to navigate this new world.   I never thought of this guy again and did not expect anything in return. Well, yesterday, he reached out. He said he was so appreciative of the time I spent with him during 2020 that he wanted to use me as his marketing partner now that he has a budget. I honestly didn't remember who he was because I had countless meetings like that during that time but it felt really good to have something come back, even if it was four years later! Sometimes it's more important to focus on long term success rather than short term gains.   In this episode, I share why it is more important to give then receive in business, in relationships, and even to strangers. How do you give more than you receive in your life?   Check out Learn to Give More Than You Receive on the DO IT MY WAY Podcast.

Courtney Bullard is a dynamic speaker, accomplished author, and dedicated mentor with a passion for making a difference. As a mother and wife, she balances her personal and professional life with grace and determination. Courtney is also the visionary behind The Pearl House, a life-changing nonprofit organization that empowers teenage girls in Ghana, providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed. In this episode, she shares how her personal brand and unwavering positivity have helped her fulfill her calling, inspiring others to find and follow their own paths to making a positive impact in the world.

We all face adversity from time to time and it can be a real downer! It has taken me some time, but I have learned to turn my adversity into motivation!   One of the hardest things I have lost was the Tulsa Spirit Award competition for my business start up idea: a niche website for moms in the Tulsa area. I can't remember if it was a $10,000 or $15,000 prize, but it was a LOT of money that we really needed to WIN to get the website going.   I'll never forget when one of the male judges named Sean said to us, "Why would anyone go to a mom website? And why would anyone buy advertising on a mom website?" This was back in 2009 when digital was just coming on the horizon. We were ahead of our time, or at least in his mind. I was so FIRED UP by his comment, that I used it as motivation to blow that website up!    Fast forward to many sleepless, late nights launching that website but guess what would pop into my mind everytime I wanted to give up?  A picture of "Sean" saying it would never work! I couldn't wait to prove him wrong! A year later the website grew to 100,000 moms visiting it every month and we sold that website to Griffin Communications, who owns the News on 6 and News 9 in Oklahoma.   Guess what happened to the winner of the Tulsa Spirit Awards that year? He never even launched the business.   I often wondered if we would have had that much success if we weren't motivated by Sean's comments. What if we had won? Would we have been complacent and not as motivated? It was the first time I was able to see how powerful it was to turn adversity into motivation! Find out how to turn your adversity into motivation on the next episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

My 19-year-old son, Jace, is an intern at D2 Branding this summer and he had his friend come with him one day. They are fresh out of high school and learning how a digital marketing agency works. At the end of the day, his friend said to me, "You mean you don't do any of the work?" It made me laugh because he thought I was a genius creating websites, running TikTok accounts, doing photography, graphic design, digital ads and video production. I had to share with him that I don't do any of that, but I have an amazing team that are experts in each area that do the work. I am not sure if he thought I was stupid or a genius at that point, but it made me think about business owners out there that are trying to do it all. You will never scale and grow if you are the one doing the work! I did all of the work in the beginning and I quickly realized that I could only have a handful of clients because I was exhausted working 12 hour days. I knew I couldn't sustain that for long, so I started hiring a great team that could execute way better than I ever could!  Find out why leaders should avoid doing work and how D2 Branding has been able to scale on the latest episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast!

I recently hired a sales rep and we spent a day cold calling local businesses, which is walking in without having an appointment or knowing who to talk to. It reminded me that you can never stop cold calling! Remember people have to get to know you, like you and trust you to buy. You have to start somewhere! We talked to 15 different business owners and had at least five that acted interested and wanted more information. Sales is a numbers game! The more you call on, the more you close.

Tulsa-based digital creator, Teresa Forehand, started her career as a physician's assistant and loved her job until she had a baby and realized her priorities were changing. She began sharing her workouts online and documenting her journey while growing a large following on Instagram. She eventually left her PA job, and now is a mom of three little ones and a full-time digital creator known for creating “20-minute meals.” She shares how she navigates being a full-time working mom, overcoming adversity when her husband suffered a severe brain injury, and how she built an online community of over 150k loyal, raving fans. Her story is inspiring and shows us how you can do it all and be successful too!

Someone asks you to speak as an expert in your industry but you would rather die than get in front of a group. I know you are probably thinking no, but the next time you get asked, you need to say YES! It is a great way to get your personal brand out there and be seen as the expert in your industry. You can also get sales leads added to your list. I understand your hesitation, the first time I got asked to speak, I didn't realize how hard it would be until I tried it. I have spent years in sales, so I thought it was going to be easy for me like a sales call, but I was wrong! It's just like anything else, practice makes perfect! On this episode of the DO IT MY WAY Podcast, I share the most important steps you can take to prepare for a speaking engagement. The first thing you need to do is know your audience! Who is in the crowd? What is the biggest problem you can solve for them? Are they potential clients? Potential referrals? What value can you add to their life so they see you as the expert in your industry? Find out the other steps by listening now!

We've talked a lot about personal branding and the importance of launching a personal brand to grow and scale your business. You might be thinking, ok, I know I need to create a personal brand, but I just don't know where to start!   After coaching female CEOs and entrepreneurs on creating personal brands, I came up with the seven things that make successful personal brands so you have a game plan of where to start!   First you have to create your brand story. This is 3-5 things that have happened to you in your life that have shaped who you are today. This could be a relationship, a job, a divorce, a promotion or becoming a mom! Everyone's story is different so think of those 3-5 things that make you who you are today!   Maybe it's the hero story showing you down and out to becoming a hero and overcoming a huge obstacle. This could be losing 100 lbs, going from broke to a millionaire or even just the best gardener on the block.   Maybe it's your career path with you sharing the incredible things you have done to become successful.   The #1 thing you need to do is show up authentically as YOURSELF! No one can be YOU, but YOU! Be vulnerable and relate to people. If you only share your highlight reel of all of the amazing things that have happened in your life, you will relate to no one.   Listen now to hear the rest of the steps to creating a successful personal brand!

If you are thinking of starting a business, listen up! Business startups are not for the faint at heart! I recently met with a client who had just spent $250k on a build out for their business and they were out of money and ready to give up. Find out the six options I coached her on and quitting was not one of them!  

We took the DO IT MY WAY Podcast on the road to my alma mater, Oklahoma State University, to chat with the university's first female President, Dr. Kayse Shrum! She started as a pediatrician, became Dean of the medical school at OSU, and now is the President! Not to mention a wife and mother to SIX KIDS! She has set an incredible example for young girls and showed them that they can do anything they set their mind to. I am so excited for you to hear her amazing story! 

Find out why a personal brand can be the X Factor that separates you from your competition! All you need is your skills, experience and personality to create a personal brand that will elevate your business!

Tina Parkhill is a community leader who has been recognized for her amazing contributions in community service and business. She's been recognized as ‘Woman of Distinction' and ‘Volunteer of the Year,' and ‘Fastest Growing Company,' just to name a few. Tina shares with us her story of leaving the corporate world to become an entrepreneur, while prioritizing serving the Tulsa community along the way. Find out why she thinks networking is critical to becoming successful!  

Shea Roach is the Co-Founder of Freeform, a global marketing automation company for people to get the most out of their digital marketing efforts. They developed their own software, Profithack that is known as the Quickbooks of marketing. Shea has worked with celebrity clients like Odell Beckham Jr., Duck Dynasty, and ESPN. She worked in corporate america for years then became an entrepreneur launching Freeform. Her latest project is developing the Ten District in Jenks. Shea shares her advice about the mindset you should have if you're looking to become an entrepreneur and her plans to grow the city of Jenks.

Tulsa entrepreneur, Teresa Knox, wears many hats. Teresa shares how she started her career as a dental assistant, then went on to teach others, specifically women, about the career and started Community Care College. She explains how she grew the college, opened two more, and now owns some of the most iconic spots in Tulsa, like the Church Studio and Harwelden Mansion. Teresa has a passion for Tulsa and preserving its rich history. Hear Teresa talk about the risks she's taken in her many business endeavors and the advice she has for entrepreneurs.

Kay Koziol is one of the healthiest 50-year-olds you will ever meet, but she wasn't always that way. She was a former CEO who put so much time into her work that she neglected her health. Before she knew it, she was 80 pounds overweight and disgusted with herself.  Breaking away from her corporate role, she decided to take control of her health and joined Burn Boot Camp where she says she was the fattest girl in the room. She didn't let that stop her as she had an extreme commitment to change, lost over 80 pounds, and ended up becoming a Burn Boot Camp franchise owner who now owns three thriving Burn Boot Camp locations in Oklahoma! Join me as I dive deep into Kay's journey, exploring how she not only navigates her businesses but also cultivates a healthy mindset in both the gym and the kitchen. Get ready to be inspired by Kay's resilience, determination, and the unique perspective she brings to achieving health and business success.   

A third-generation Tulsan, Paula Marshall has served as CEO of Tulsa-based international food manufacturer, Bama Companies, Inc. since 1990. Paula has served, started or partnered with numerous organizations and causes in the Tulsa area, including Tulsa Chamber of Commerce, Tulsa Area United Way, the Margaret Hudson Program, DVIS, Food On The Move and Ronald McDonald House Charities. Paula has also been recognized for several awards and recognitions, including being inducted into the Tulsa Hall of Fame, Advocate of the Year for DVIS, The Journal Record's Woman of The Year, and being named one of the 25 Tulsans Who Shaped Our City by Tulsa People Magazine in 2011, and most recently, becoming a 2021 inductee into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Listen to Paula explain how she deconstructed systems in place at Bama Companies and created a family environment to support her team members and partners.

Tulsa native, Teresa Gawey, left her corporate job and did not know the direction her career path was going in. She graduated college with a journalism degree, worked in the corporate world, then pivoted to get her master's degree in social work and worked as an executive director at local nonprofit, Tulsa Area United Way.  After having a premature baby, her life flipped upside down and she decided to become a stay at home mom. After more than a decade of raising her kids, she found a need for yoga in the Tulsa community. She took a risk and opened SALT Yoga. Her studio is all about inclusivity and fun while moving your body, at any level.  Listen to Teresa share invaluable insights to other aspiring entrepreneurs and what it's really like to be a business owner. 

I had too much fun interviewing lifestyle photographer, Amy Herndon, on the DO IT MY WAY Podcast this week! Amy explains how she started her business at the perfect time when her style was rare and Instagram was just becoming popular. She shares how to stay relevant in industries that are constantly evolving. Find out how Amy went from stay at home mom to sought after lifestyle photographer flying all over the country capturing her client's most precious moments.