Hosted by Shelagh Cummins, the Road to Seven podcast guides and supports entrepreneurs on their road to seven figures and beyond. Featuring interviews with inspirational women entrepreneurs who have created their own seven-figure businesses. To learn more visit shelaghcummins.com.
In this episode, Shelagh Cummins dives deep with Jen Harper, the inspiring founder of Cheekbone Beauty. Jen shares her extraordinary journey from working in the seafood industry to creating a beauty brand that stands out for its commitment to sustainability, representation, and social impact. She opens up about the personal challenges she faced, the pivotal role of education, and how community support shaped her path. This conversation is packed with insights on the influence of Indigenous culture in business, the importance of transparency in the beauty industry, and what it really takes to grow a purpose-driven brand. Jen also reveals the strategies behind Cheekbone Beauty's growth, the challenges of investment and scaling, and her exciting vision for the brand's future.Top Takeaways:Cheekbone Beauty: More than makeup – it's a movement for sustainability and social impact.Jen Harper's Journey: It all started with a dream about Indigenous youth, fueling a mission to empower.Education as Empowerment: Why education is at the core of representation and success.Turning Struggles into Strength: How personal battles became a driving force for Jen's entrepreneurial journey.Business with Heart: Indigenous culture shapes Cheekbone's values and business ethics.Facing Industry Challenges: Tackling sustainability in the beauty world – one product at a time.Investment Insights: The reality of scaling a business and why strategic investment matters.The Power of Transparency: Building consumer trust through an open supply chain.Retail Adaptation: What it really takes to partner with retailers and meet consumer needs.What's Next: Cheekbone Beauty's ambitious plans for U.S. market expansion.Learn more about Jenn Harper and Cheekbone Beauty:www.cheekbonebeauty.comhttps://www.instagram.com/cheekbonebeauty/?hl=enhttps://www.facebook.com/cheekbonebeauty/https://twitter.com/cheekbonebeautyhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/cheekbone-beautyhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCS-JpqTI-QdLv1vtCotPArQhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cheekbonebeauty
“Debt does not mean you are bad with money, that you don't know how to do business, that you are not worthy. It is not something to be ashamed of. It's not something to feel guilty about. It just is.”- Shelagh CumminsToday we're talking about debt, and the first thing I want to share with you is that it doesn't need to be a word that brings on feeling of shame or guilt - debt is a tool, and in this episode of The Road To Seven Podcast I'm going to show you how to master it.I'm going to share with you a few examples of what bad debt is, and what can happen if you take on loans with high interest rates, and no opportunity for return on investment, or ROI. I'm also going to share examples from clients that I've worked with, who leveraged good debt in order to grow their businesses.No matter what, we all take on some form of debt at some point in our business journey, what's important to remember is that you take on debt strategically, and you find a way to release the shame and guilt around any debt that you currently have, or will have in the future.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The difference between good and bad debtThe type of debt you may take on in order to grow your businessStrategies to pay down debt and let go of the guilt attached to itHighlights: 00:01 Intro01:57 An invitation04:49 Bad debt09:18 The state of lending today10:40 Leveraging good debt13:09 Micro-lending13:51 Let go of the story attached to your debtLinks:To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Just because you have profit doesn't mean you have great cash flow, and the only way to know if you're in the clear with your cash flow is to be tracking it, seeing it, and following it.”- Shelagh CumminsYour cash flow is the lifeblood of your company. It ensures that your business can meet its day to day operations, and it also is a tool for you to expand and scale. However, what so many entrepreneurs believe to be true, is that your revenue is equal to your cash flow, and that does not work when unexpected expenses pop up, or you need to make a major investment in your business in order to scale.Tune in, because I'll be taking you through the three biggest misconceptions about cash flow that I see entrepreneurs struggling with all the time. Your revenue is not equal to your cash flow, a profitable business does not mean that you have strong cash flow, and that cash flow problems can only be solved with more sales.We'll also discuss your financial practices, and I'll share my strategies for solid financial practices with you, so that you can confidently tackle any cash flow problems your business may face in the future.Believe me when I say that on today's episode of The Road To Seven Podcast you're going to learn everything you need to know about cash flow, and how to make sure you have more than enough to keep your business running smoothly.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: My Google Sheets spreadsheet to track your cash flowHow to plan for unexpected expenses in your businessHow to establish and maintain good financial practices Highlights: 00:01 Intro 02:00 Understanding the cash flow for your company03:52 Your revenue is not equal to your cash flow05:46 A profitable business does not mean you have strong cash flow 07:02 Misconception: Cash flow problems can only be solved with more sales 11:10 Cash flow and emotions 13:22 Weekly time to review Links: Cash flow tracker: https://cummins.kartra.com/page/cashflowTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If you're going to talk about women stepping into their purpose, you have to do it for yourself as scary as it may be.”-Kena ParanjapeIf you are facing big challenges in your business, then I've got someone who you need to hear from today. My guest Kena Paranjape is the founder of All You Are, an empowerment platform and community for women, who has navigated 20 years of career shifts and challenges, personal loss, and extreme personal transformation.Kena shares deeply about her journey with self-actualization and self-trust. As a young girl, she noticed very quickly that she felt a lack in her sense of belonging, and now, she's determined to help other women see that they are worthy of self-love and self-trust.Kena also shares how her co-founded company BRIKA pivoted from a B2C(Business to Customer) business to B2B (Business to Business) model after enormous success with various pop up stores around the city of Toronto.So, tune into today's episode if you're ready to take on all the challenges life has to give you!In this episode, you'll discover: The importance of introspection for personal and business growthWhy a sense of belonging can have a huge impact on your businessWhat it means to be on a journey of self-actualizationAbout Guest:Kena Paranjape is the founder of All You Are, an empowerment platform and community for women. Kena is also the co-founder of recently acquired BRIKA, an innovative retail concept focused on highlighting and supporting emerging artisans and designers. Kena has 20 years of experience in retail at brands like Indigo, Joe Fresh, and Gap, as well as a high-end eco-friendly boutique concept. She was most recently the VP of Merchandising at Houseplant, Seth Rogen's cannabis company where she was responsible for bringing to market their award-winning cannabis accessories collection.Highlights: 00:01 Intro00:00 Meet Kena09:30 All You Are13:05 Intuition and guidance15:02 How Kena taps into her inner wisdom17:30 Cultivating a sense of belonging19:53 Kena's biggest business challenges21:13 What it's like to be acquired23:40 What she knows now25:55 What's nextLinks:https://allyouare.cahttps://instagram.com/kena_allyouarehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kenaparanjape/To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Are we inspiring women or are we selling products? That gave a definition to my brand, and that definition came from my heart.”-Adedoyin OmotaraFriends, I don't need to tell you that the most powerful way to grow your business is when you lead with heart, passion, and purpose. And today, I'm chatting with my guest Adedoyin Omotara to share with you how she has done exactly this, with incredible results.In the middle of moving from Aberdeen, Scotland, to Calgary, Canada, Adedoyin decided it was the perfect time to see whether she truly wanted to start her own beauty brand. After product testing and development, Adedoyin officially launched her beauty brand Adoniaa in 2015.We talked about the importance of mindset, when you as an entrepreneur are on a mission to inspire others – and what it takes to keep your mindset at that next-level energy, the most important elements including coaching, and community.In this episode, you'll discover: What it takes to get beauty products to marketHow to navigate the next-level mindset needed to grow a successful businessWhat it means to run a business that is heart, purpose and passion-ledAbout Guest:Adedoyin Omotara is a Beauty Entrepreneur, Women's empowerment advocate, Speaker, Life Coach , Business Coach and the leader of the unmask your beauty movement. Her passion to live a fuller and more expressive life made her leave her successful Corporate Engineering career to become an Entrepreneur.Seeking the spiritually creative fulfilment missing in her successful corporate career, She determined to resolve the concern that beauty today, far from being that poetic 'joy forever' is unfortunately a source of insecurity, shame and stress for countless women. Her inspirational teaching events promote beauty, inside and out, to an audience of women at all stages of life. She believes in investing in the dream of girls and in the strength of women. Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:58 Meet Adedoyin06:08 The growth of Adoniaa14:22 Different platforms for Adoniaa18:23 Getting the first product to market23:25 The most challenging part of Adedoyin's journey27:18 Maintaining the next-level mindset30:22 What she knows now34:48 What's next36:10 Where to find Adedoyin and AdoniaaLinks: https://www.adoniaa.comTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Our ‘find a way' was to find people who would be willing to walk with us as we walked with communities.”-Somia SadiqIf your business is on the brink of rapid growth, friend, this is an episode for you. In today's episode of The Road To Seven Podcast, I have a great conversation with Somia Sadiq, an entrepreneur who founded and built Narratives Inc., a consulting firm that specializes in territorial planning and impact assessment. We talk about everything from what your team expects from you as your business grows, to how to find support as the leader of a company that grew incredibly fast within a five year period.Somia and I also chatted about the evolution of her leadership which I think will be especially useful for those of you who are currently experiencing rapid growth in your companies. I know you'll get a lot out of this episode, so pop those earbuds in and hit play!In this episode, you'll discover:The power of relationships for rapid business growthHow leadership styles evolve over timeThe importance of leaning on mentors and advisorsAbout Guest:Somia Sadiq is a Certified Environmental Professional (EP) and a Registered Professional Planner (RPP), specializing in Impact Assessment, Conflict Transformation, Negotiations, Peace building, and Trauma-Informed approaches.Somia is the founder of Narratives Inc., a consulting firm that specializes in territorial planning and impact assessment, and the founder of Kahanee, a non-profit organization that leans on stories and storytelling for positive peacebuilding. Somia and her husband also just started an RV campground in Manitoba called Base Camp 59.Somia's work is informed by a keen interest in creating space, respect and voice for multiple knowledge systems, and understanding psychosocial barriers to peace and conflict transformation, particularly dynamics of Identity, Othering, Framing, and Trauma.Highlights: 00:01 Intro03:02 Meet Somia03:22 Somia's business journey11:45 Experiencing rapid growth16:22 Somia's leadership style evolution19:39 The challenges of remaining “people first”23:12 Slow changes in DEI25:40 What Somia knows nowLinks:Narratives Inc Website: www.narrativesinc.comMy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/somia-sadiq-0b21596a/Base Camp 59 Website: www.basecamp59.caTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“What have I done? What have I learned? What can I do? How can I give back? What do I have that could be useful to young women who maybe want to start their own businesses and have that kind of independence?”- Liz CrawfordMy guest Liz Crawford, an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and multi-passionate is going to rock your world. A woman with more than four businesses, Liz is dedicated to the growth and ethical behaviours in the international modelling industry, and ensuring her team are all independently successful.Liz started her first business after retiring from modelling in her early thirties. What followed was an organic growth and expansion from production agency, to model advocacy, to a modelling agency, and even into renovating an old motel into a luxury getaway in Winnipeg.So, if you are a multi-passionate entrepreneur and you don't want to choose just one business, then today's episode of The Road To Seven Podcast is one that you don't want to miss.In this episode, you'll discover: How Liz moved past the price increase mindset hurdleHow Liz developed a positive team cultureHow Liz balances multiple businessesAbout Guest:With careers as a movie actress, fashion stylist, freelance journalist, and international model, Liz Crawford's experiences have been far from what one could call ordinary. In 2007 Liz founded Swish Productions, using her knowledge and expertise in public relations and fashion to open Winnipeg's only full service fashion marketing and public relations firm. In 2007, Liz was invited to speak in Ottawa at the House of Commons in an effort to regulate the modelling industry for model's safety. Thus Swish Productions sister company, Swish Model Management was born, representing some of Canada's most recognized international models.Highlights:00:01 Intro04:23 Meet Liz05:11 Liz's first company11:05 The price increase hurdle12:52 Liz's second company21:54 Liz's third company24:45 Liz's fourth company28:54 Liz's team37:34 What Liz knows now43:27 What's next for LizLinks:Swish model management: https://swishmodelmanagement.com/Her HQ: https://www.herheadquarters.com/The Rosè websites: https://www.therosebeachhouse.com/To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“It all starts with that strategic decision that you're ready for your business to be bigger than you.”- Shelagh CumminsWhen you're scaling your business, you're faced with dozens, if not hundreds of new decisions every day. But the most important one is deciding what your “next level” looks like. That's what today's episode of The Road To Seven Podcast is all about.When you start to scale, your job shifts from being the doer, to the leader, and I know how difficult this can be. In this episode I talk about how to let go of responsibilities you once had, so that you can transition them to empowered employees. And yes, that means that you no longer jump in and “fix” the work they've done anymore. Your job is now to lead your team to do the best that they can.So there are two questions to get you to shift to running your business, from it running you. First, what is a strategic decision that you need to make today that's going to have the most impact on your business? And second, what is a fear that you can rewrite, overwrite, acknowledge, and move on from, in order to take action so that you can bring your business to the next level? In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: What types of decisions you'll be faced with when scaling your business How to empower your team to get the results your business needs What fear-based decision making looks like and how to avoid it Highlights: 00:01 Intro 01:50 Everything is rooted in a decision 02:36 Deciding what your next level looks like 05:37 Shifting responsibility to your team 07:50 Key questions for your team 08:11 Fear driving decisions 11:11 Raising your rates To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“I was and am in a period of growth and evolution. It means I'm looking for all the options that are around me.”- Shelagh CumminsHave you ever just wanted to burn everything to the ground and start fresh? Friends, that is exactly what I did last year, and in this episode of The Road To Seven Podcast I'm going to tell you exactly what starting fresh did for me.I gave myself the time and space to pull back from the edge of burnout, so that I could restructure my business from the inside out. That looked like cancelling programs I had been running for months (and years), resetting my offerings, and making sure that I was still financially contributing to my family. I wanted to share all of this with you today, because I believe that if you are not happy in your business, then it's time for your business to change and support the life and dreams that you want to have and achieve. So tune in, because I've got a great episode for you today!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The sunk cost fallacy of closing down a business What taking the leap of faith means to get to the next level in your business How recognizing the edge of burnout can create new opportunities Highlights: 00:01 Intro 01:50 Scaling made simple02:37 The next level in your business 03:49 Shutting down businesses 07:10 Letting go with trust 08:38 The mental space to create 11:15 True satisfaction 13:06 My rally cry Links: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“The whole point of growth is to be uncomfortable, but you're safe.”- Renée WarrenIf you've ever felt like throwing in the towel on your business, this is an episode of The Road To Seven podcast you don't want to miss. My guest Renée Warren, founder of We Wild Women, and I, have an excellent conversation about what to do when you hit burnout in your business, how to reorient yourself when it's time to start again, and why it's so important to have your cheerleaders by your side to help you through big business changes.We talk about how identifying what you love to do is what helps you get to your sweet spot, without caring whether people are going to judge you for shifting your business focus. We also discuss how identifying what you love about your industry, identifying what people need, and then creating the product or service around those key elements is essential for business success.In this episode, you'll discover: How to handle the ups and downs of every step that you have to take in your bizHow to grow a business that you will love (and not hate)What a multi-passionate entrepreneur journey looks likeAbout Guest:Renée Warren is an award-winning entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, author, and founder of We Wild Women, a platform that helps women-led businesses build confidence and authority, and gain industry recognition and the media exposure they deserve.She's also the host of the celebrated podcast, Into the Wild, a show in the top 1.5% that features curated interviews with women entrepreneurs and provides actionable advice to women who are growing their own dream businesses.Renée firmly believes that the best advice comes from someone who has successfully done it before. Her approach to coaching comes from over 23 years of experience as an entrepreneur, in running marketing and PR agencies and in being an unapologetic risk-taker.Highlights:00:01 Intro03:06 Meet Renée04:38 Renée's story 10:16 Closing her PR company 12:06 Making the jump to coaching 17:16 We Wild Women18:32 Renée's productivity planner22:16 Shifting back to PR30:09 Trusting your inner voice38:04: What's nextLinks:Find Renée https://www.wewildwomen.com/proven-pitch-strategiesTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If you're underpricing because you're trying to get more people to buy, you are literally going to get the bargain hunters, and bargain hunters have no loyalty.”- Shelagh CumminsAre you pricing your offers to pay the bills, or for profit? Many of the entrepreneurs that I work with find it incredibly challenging to properly price their offers, and end up making financial decisions for today, that leave money on the table for tomorrow.The reality is, not monitoring and knowing and understanding your numbers is actually impacting the growth of your company. Because you're either overspending, underspending, or you're just not making strategic decisions that are going to help you grow.Pricing too low is one of the biggest mistakes I see entrepreneurs make, because it is expensive to run a business. So in this episode of The Road To Seven podcast, I'm going to share with you a practical, step-by-step process to price your offers properly, so that you get more profit out of your business.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: What the biggest pricing mistakes entrepreneurs make areMy pricing strategiesHow to future-proof your business through pricingHighlights: 00:00 Intro01:23 Pricing for profit01:57 The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make 09:05 Base your pricing on future needs11:02 Pricing is not randomly generated 12:46 Perceived value 14:57 Pricing strategy23:56 You get to choose your business 27:55 Wrapping up Links:To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“You can have all these issues, these challenges, these moments, this heaviness, but you can only deal with each one, one at a time.”-Liat HorovitzYou've heard both of my guests on The Road To Seven Podcast before, and they're back for an amazing roundtable discussion on setting boundaries as a coach - it's Liat Horovitz and Dr. Nothando Wohlgeschaffen.In this episode, we're diving deeper into a conversation we had on a panel at Momfest in September of 2022 called Boundaries Are Sexy And Choices are Opportunities. And if you are a business owner of any kind, you will absolutely take away some gems from our conversation.In this episode, you'll discover: How to set and uphold your boundaries as a coachWhat it means to intentionally choose your prioritiesHow compartmentalising can help your coaching workAbout Guests:Nothando Wohlgeschaffen is a family doctor and general life coach for other women professionals. Her clients come to her for relationship, business, and career coaching. They leave with mastery level boundaries and 40 more hours a month just for themselves.Liat Horovitz is a Results Coach and Podcast Host with a passion for helping people achieve their desired results and be the best version of themselves. Liat works closely with her clients to define their goals and dreams, and set practical and strategic plans to achieve the desired transformations.Highlights:00:01 Intro02:05 Meet Liat Horovitz and Dr. Nothando Wohlgeschaffen (again!)03:35 Boundaries09:52 Persona online vs. persona in personal life12:20 Personal and emotional boundaries as self-care20:30 Intentionally choosing priorities25:00 Seasonal priorities35:28 One word of wisdomLinks:Dr. Nothando Wohlgeschaffen's previous episode 172 Dr. Wohlgeschaffen's Blog with resourcesInstagram: @nothandowohlgeschaffen Complete Guide to Boundaries for PhysiciansLiat Horovitz's previous episode 170Liat's website Results Club podcast Liat's upcoming retreatTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.IG:@shelaghcumminsTwitter:@shelaghcumminsFacebookLinkedIn
“Makeup does not define you. It's merely a tool of empowerment.”-Missy MacKintoshMakeup has always been the centre of my guest Missy MacKintosh's life, and from working a Mary Kay franchise with her mom to opening two storefronts with another on the way, it's easy to see why. Missy, like many entrepreneurs, zig zagged her way through to entrepreneurship. Beginning as a makeup artist, working her way up through top brand Makeup Forever, and then suddenly finding herself working in the travel industry, when she realized that there must be something more for her life. That's where MisMacK, Missy's beauty brand came in.Throughout the pandemic, Missy started and evolved her clean beauty business from her basement to two storefronts on the west coast of Canada, and is preparing to open a third location in the fall, and if you need a dose of high energy motivation for your product business, this is an episode you don't want to miss!In this episode, you'll discover: Why makeup is an important part of creating a world where we all belong What it's like to go from working in a basement, to opening storefronts The importance of patience as an entrepreneurAbout Missy: Missy MacKintosh is an Internationally Acclaimed Makeup Artist and Fiery Entrepreneur. Recently named "Most Influential Business Leaders to Follow in Canada" by Insight Success Magazine and "Top 50 One's to Watch Keynote Speakers" in the Real Leaders Magazine, Missy founded and built Canada's most award-winning Clean Beauty Brand - MisMacK Clean Cosmetics in her small town basement of Canoe BC. She single-handily grew out of her basement and into 2 storefronts during a global pandemic.Missy's tagline is "Makeup does not define you, it's merely a tool of empowerment". She's so excited to share her story of how she pushed through small-town barriers and became a leading force in the Clean Beauty Revolution.Highlights: 00:01 Intro00:52 Meet Missy07:18 Missy's makeup line 09:06 “Clean” beauty 10:26 Pre-launch 14:44 Missy's biggest barriers 19:19 Makeup and belonging 26: 28 Having patience as an entrepreneur30:06 Using investments to grow 33:18 What Missy knows nowLinks:Find MisMack here: https://mismack.com/ Use code "seven10" at checkout to save 10% off your MisMacK.@mismackcleancosmetics on all socials To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If I have resistance to this business growing as it wanted to, I was stifling the growth opportunities, not only for my own business, but because of all of these really beautiful relationships we have with our farmers and food producers.”-Sheena RussellIf you are building a product-based business, this is an episode you don't want to miss. I'm interviewing Sheena Russell, the founder of Made with Local, a company on a mission to create delicious, nourishing snacks that connect people with the planet and those who grow our food.Sheena and I discuss how important it is to develop strategic local partnerships, and when to exit partnerships when they no longer serve your business. Sheena also takes us through what it's like to start out at farmer's markets, and scale into over 3000 grocery stores across North America – no small feat!We also discuss the process of scaling and raising capital, and what that means for the growth of Made Local. So if you're ready for some actionable steps to grow your product business, you'll want to tune into this episode.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: How to go from the idea of hand making a product to having it available on the shelves of over 3000 grocery storesSelecting strategic partnerships that are in alignment with your values and visionWhat running a Series A funding round looks likeSheena Russell, is the founder of Made with Local, a company on a mission to create delicious, nourishing snacks that connect people with the planet and those who grow our food. Sheena has created a line of Real Food Bars and Granola Bar Mixes that are not only nourishing and made with transparently and ethically sourced ingredients, they also create social impact through their partnership with local farmers and food producers. Starting at a humble farmer's market in Halifax in 2012, Made with Local's foods are now available at over 3000 grocery stores across Canada. Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:18 Meet Sheena03:05 Sheena's journey06:52 Choosing snack bar flavours09:11 Strategic local partnerships12:21 From farmer's markets to big stores14:27 Getting into the first store17:55 The growth of Made Local21:08 The challenges of the business25:31 What Sheena knows now28:54 What's nextLinks:To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If you haven't hired people who are going to be key decision makers and have full autonomy over some functioning within your company, then you are never going to be able to let go of the reins and have this company be bigger than you.”- Shelagh CumminsDo you feel like you're stuck on a hamster wheel in your business? Are you giving yourself dozens of reasons why you're not ready to make crucial hiring decisions, and finding that it backfires on you more often than not? Then this is an episode for you.I hear entrepreneurs tell me every day that they're burnt out, or they're afraid that they won't have the time freedom they truly want in their business because they're taking on too many clients, but they won't take courageous action and make a strategic hire, or make that phone call, or launch that program, that would alleviate all of these fears.But the reality is, with the right help in the right places, your business can generate more revenue and time freedom for you at the same time – you just have to be willing to lead yourself into letting go of control, and allow other people to come in and help.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Why you might be stuck on the hamster wheel that is your businessThe reasons why you might not be hiring to grow your business even though you know you shouldThe excuses we hear most often when it comes to “letting go” of responsibility in your business Highlights: 00:01 Intro01:58 The Leadership Gap04:53 The number one reason we don't hire05:58 What leading really means07:11 Why you're feeling so burnt out08:01 Your ability to lead YOU 10:03 How I can help you get off the hamster wheel Links:To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“It's so very important to create the culture of your one team. And everyone adds value. Doesn't matter what they do for you, they add value.”-Nicole Bourque-BouchierFor 25 years, my guest Nicole Bourque-Bouchier has led her company to excellence through strong community and indigenous values. Starting her role at the company she co-owns with her husband David, Nicole never thought it would flourish as rapidly as it did - and she quickly developed her position from part-time helper to office manager, to CEO.Nicole's passion for community stems from her indigenous background, inspiring the company motto “Better Together.” Through employee recognition and appreciation events, she has built the company to over 1200 employees, by focusing on what everyone can accomplish together, as one.Nicole is also a philanthropist, and has even established a family foundation with her husband and five children, in order to give back to her community in a meaningful way. So if you're looking for inspiration and someone to aspire to, this is an interview you don't want to miss!In this episode, you'll discover:How Nicole built her role and company from the ground up and became CEOThe importance of community and a giving focus within BouchierWhat the combination of indigenous and feminine leadership can do to positively impact community and global industryNicole Bourque-Bouchier is proudly a Mikisew Cree First Nation, born in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories and raised in Fort McMurray, Alberta, where she resides with her husband and five children. Named one of Canada's Top 100 Most Influential Women by the Women's Executive Network in 2015, Nicole uses her traditional teachings, experience, and voice to advocate for Indigenous women's economic empowerment. Nicole's career serves as an inspiration to those around her, particularly as the recipient of numerous accolades.Highlights:00:01 Intro01:05 Introducing Nicole Bourque-Bouchier03:27 Meet Nicole04:10 Nicole's story07:19 The Chief Everything Officer09:04 Overcoming challenges as a woman in a male-dominated industry13:14 Hiring for culture fit19:17 The importance of a giving focus23:31 What she knows now28:06 What's next Links: Connect with Nicolehttps://www.ccab.com/awards/indigenous-women-in-leadership-iwil-award/ To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“You are an authentic person who brings tremendous style, strength, and skill to your business.”- Shelagh CumminsWhat if I told you that more than 50% of businesses are generating revenue below the poverty line? Would you be surprised to learn that the reason behind this comes down to what I call The Seven Deadly Sins of entrepreneurship? I see women making these seven mistakes every single day, so I want to share with you what they are and how you can overcome them, so that your business will go beyond surviving, to thriving. But make no mistake, each of these “deadly sins” requires that you take clear focused action in order to avoid committing them.My goal is to support women entrepreneurs just like you, with financing, coaching, and training so that they can find the money and time freedom as they're building a fulfilling business on the road to, and beyond, seven figures, and in this episode I offer actionable steps that you can take to do that.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: What the seven deadly sins of entrepreneurship are – and if you might be making themHow to recognize and shift mistakes into successesWhy entrepreneurs let fear stop them from making huge strides – and how to move past that fearHighlights: 00:01 The stats on entrepreneur earnings00:54 Intro02:00 The seven deadly sins of entrepreneurship02:14 The first sin - inauthenticity03:05 The second sin - underpricing 04:35 The third sin - playing small05:55 The fourth sin - focusing on the minutiae 07:53 The fifth sin - letting fear dictate decisions 10:51 The sixth sin - not trusting 12:33 The seventh sin - not continuing14:41 Recap16:28 How to connect with Shelagh Links: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If you're afraid of the “no” because you're counting on that money, they're going to be saying no anyway. Let's figure out another way to get your money in the door.”- Shelagh CumminsWhat would you be capable of, if you weren't afraid of the word “no”? In today's episode, I'm sharing real stories from my coaching clients about what happened when we removed the story behind what it means to hear “no” from potential clients. Spoiler alert: great things happened.I'm diving into the real reasons you're afraid to hear the word “no” from potential clients, and I'm giving you actionable steps that you can take today, to move past that fear.Listen in to learn why it might actually be a good thing when you get the “no” – and what my clients were capable of when they were handed the freedom of the two letter answer they were so afraid of. In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Common fears that entrepreneurs have about hearing the word “no” and how to move past them so that you can get to the “yes”When hearing “no” can be more of a relief than hearing “yes”Releasing the story of what hearing “no” brings, so that you can step into your value as the service provider your people needHighlights: 00:01 Intro 02:32 What we're really afraid of03:47 Following up with support 04:11 What we think when we hear “no” 07:03 Clearing out “no's” to open up space for new leads 08:34 Stepping into your own value to get to “yes” 09:54 Hiding from the “no”10:26 What you can do today to stop hidingLinks: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Creating an identity for yourself outside of work or outside of home is often the work that needs to be done before we can actually create the businesses that we want.”-Dr. Nothando WohlgeschaffenWhen it comes to balancing career and home, most women bump up against challenges in prioritizing what's most important to them. Dr. Nothando Wohlgeschaffen is helping high performing women in the medical field to navigate these challenges, and at the same time is a practicing family physician serving underrepresented communities–all while preparing to become a new mother.To say that she is an incredible inspiration is an understatement, and I think you'll find that our conversation is full of actionable tools that will help you assess what is most important in your life, and where you want to prioritize your time.In this episode, you'll discover:Balancing the expectations of entrepreneurship, career, motherhood and self through intentionalityHow to make choices to prioritize what is important to you, so that you can “have it all”Five things that will help you prevent and/or move past burnoutDr. Nothando Wohlgeschaffen is a family doctor and general life coach for other women professionals. She helps women whose job it is to show up for other people also show up for themselves. Her clients come to her for relationship, business, and career coaching. They leave with mastery level boundaries and 40 more hours a month just for themselves.Highlights:00:01 Intro02:23 Meet Nothando02:56 Nothando's journey06:36 Modern expectations of women 08:21 Balancing through intentionality11:40 Making choices so our priorities align with our core values13:50 Starting a family practice and coaching business simultaneously 17:01 Taking steps to create self-identity 19:22 Time blocking for focus 21:10 Tools to prevent burnout 29:11 The choices we make about how we spend our time34:10 What she knows now36:14 What's nextLinks: Nothando's blog with resourcesInstagram: https://instagram.com/nothandowohlgeschaffen Complete Guide to Boundaries for PhysiciansTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“When you hire up, you're able to put all of the different pieces into place so that your hires can get the results for your business. That's leadership.”- Shelagh CumminsDoes this sound familiar? “I don't have the time to go and find someone to help me,” or, “I don't have the money to be able to pay someone to help me.” Before you hit your solopreneur limit, you need to understand what it means to shift from being a doer, to being a leader. But here's the thing – the right hire will actually save you more time, AND make you more money. All you have to do is give up a little bit of control.Easier said than done, right? Today I'm sharing with you all of the mindset shifts that I have worked through with my coaching clients to go from holding onto all of the control in your business, to hiring and trusting the right people to do what they do best, so that you have the time and space in your business to do what you do best – get results for your clients.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: How to shift your perspective from doing everything in your business, and see yourself as a leaderUnderstanding your leadership style and communicating it with potential hiresHow to give feedback so that you can release control over different pieces of your business and get time back to do what you do best Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:50 The resistance to shift your perspective03:26 Reasons why women say they don't want to hire 05:48 Understanding your leadership style 07:44 Learning how to release control09:31 Hiring up instead of hiring down10:41 Past hires that didn't work out 12:01 How to step into leadership 14:05 My new 3-part masterclass on leadership Links: Send me a DM at https://instagram.com/shelaghcummins to learn more about The Leader Masterclass. To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“I had been planning for it and fantasizing about it, and that was the moment where I was in this immersive environment where it was easy to make these decisions.”-Liat HorovitzLiat Horovitz is a Results Coach and host of The Results Club Podcast. She began her career journey working for a large tech company, but after having children and time to reflect over maternity leaves, she realized that it was time to make her next big move, and start her own business.Passionate about anything related to personal development, Liat began her entrepreneurial journey as a coach just before the pandemic, in October of 2019. During long periods of isolation, she realized how powerful community is, which led her to developing a series of retreats for her clients that focus on personal growth.In this conversation, we talk about the process of shifting identity from corporate to entrepreneur, what we did to move through the low moments of our businesses, and our surprisingly common career paths!In this episode, you'll discover:Why it is so important to invest in yourself for business successThe importance of reflecting on your path and journey as an entrepreneurWhy community is a pillar of your business' successLiat Horovitz is a Results Coach and Podcast Host with a passion for helping people achieve their desired results and be the best version of themselves. After having climbed the corporate ladder Liat finally left her day job to pursue what brings her true joy - a combination of coaching and content creation. For both business and life in general - Liat works closely with her clients to define their goals and dreams, and set practical strategic plans to achieve the desired transformations.Highlights:00:01 Intro02:09 Meet Liat Horovitz02:32 Liat's journey08:30 Our common path to entrepreneurship10:42 Identity shifts 15:10 Investing in yourself18:50 Growth and evolution 23:28 Finding the courage to continue beyond low moments28:57 What she knows now32:36 What's nextLinks:To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comLiat's website - https://www.liathorovitz.com/Results Club podcastMy upcoming retreatLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“As your business grows, so do you. You evolve. You become a different person. You have different strengths that you didn't know that you had.”- Shelagh CumminsHave you ever felt irritated or put off by an aspect of your business? Do you find yourself feeling frustrated or overwhelmed while working through your to-do list? When things aren't feeling quite right, that's a powerful clue that something in your business is out of alignment. While you may have put time and effort into intentionally building a business that is aligned with your styles and strengths, that ideal fit won't be permanent. As both you and your business grow and evolve, you'll find that your needs and goals will change — and that your business will have to shift in order to meet them!How do you keep your business aligned with both your strengths and your styles, so that you can consistently show up as the best version of you?In this episode of the Road to Seven, I share the 4 most important aspects of your business that should be kept in alignment, how to recognize when they're slipping out of alignment, and how to shift them back into place.Listen now to discover: How to know when you're not serving the right audience — and what to do with an unaligned client! How to recognize when your business model isn't working for you (with a real-life example from my own business) How to craft your best-fit approach to social media — no dancing or lip-syncing required! Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:28 Core values03:50 Your clients08:36 Business model12:12 Social media15:41 Is your business working for you? Links: The Road to Seven Mastermindhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/the-road-to-seven-mastermindTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“The reason why I was ‘multi-passionate' and trying all these different things… was an avoidance coping mechanism that was as a result of recognizing that I have ADHD.”- Cher JonesCher Jones is a speaker, a coach, and the founder of social media training company Socially Active. She's also a brilliant woman who has achieved great success while living with ADHD.While ADHD has long been regarded as something that primarily affects males, there's been a growing recognition of the different ways that it affects women and girls — leading to more diagnoses and more understanding.In this conversation, we talk about the catalyst that helped Cher to niche down and choose her best-fit lane, the challenging intersection of entrepreneurship and neurodivergence, and why it's never too late to reinvent, refocus, and recharge your business.You won't want to miss this fascinating discussion!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: How ADHD has shaped Cher's entrepreneurial journey — and how she navigates its effectsWhy certain aspects of ADHD can be seen as a superpower (and how Cher wields them in her business!) The strategic decisions that have allowed her to scale her business with more easeCher Jones is the founder of Socially Active, a corporate social media training company that specializes in personal branding for the hybrid workplace. She teaches leaders, consultants, and experts how to develop a professional digital presence that makes people want to work with them, for them and champion them.Highlights:00:01 Intro01:45 Meet Cher Jones03:13 Cher's journey05:54 The A-ha! moment07:31 ADHD effects10:03 Finding her diagnosis11:26 How she does things differently now17:36 Showing up consistently21:51 Resistance to niching24:51 What she knows now28:46 What's nextLinks:Cher JonesWebsiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram: @itscherjones Twitter: @itscherjones TikTok: @itscherjonesClubhouse: @itscherjonesPersonal Branding QuizThe Referable SpeakerTo work with me and make your next power move, visit here!Stay ConnectedClick here to subscribe in iTunes for more conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“You attack every day with a vim and a vigor and determination and a passion… and sometimes, it's hard to do it alone.”- Shelagh CumminsDo you feel alone in running your business? Have you ever wanted to have a supportive community ready to champion you as you work toward your biggest, boldest dreams? The truth is that having a supportive community can be an absolute GAME-CHANGER when it comes to your business growth. Having the right people around you can be a tipping point to achieving your goals. On the other hand, having the wrong people around you can keep you playing small, and hold you back from from taking the strategic risks that can lead to real growth.So, how do you find the right type of community — one that understands exactly what you're experiencing, will cheer you on as you hit your milestones, and provides the valuable feedback you need to strengthen and uplevel your strategic decision-making? And what exactly will you gain from joining one?Let's talk about it!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The importance of sharing the weight of some of the thousands of micro-decisions you make every day How to create a fruitful business partnership that will boost your audience and generate leadsHow to leverage a community for valuable data collection Highlights: 00:01 Intro01:49 Right people v. wrong people02:49 Micro-decisions & clarity04:32 Learning from others' experience05:56 Partnering with other companies07:27 Research opportunities08:38 Stepping into your power12:29 Finding your community Links: The Road to Seven Mastermindhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/the-road-to-seven-mastermindTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“To have your partner that has the exact same goals and vision as you do makes it a little easier.”- Bernie LawAngie Tran and Bernie Law are on a mission to eliminate the one billion plastic detergent jugs that are polluting our planet, each and every year! Their revolutionary Kind Laundry detergent strips have been awarded the Best Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent Award from Better Homes & Gardens — and their vision for a more sustainable future is one that I can wholeheartedly get behind!Angie and Bernie founded Kind Laundry two and a half years ago after a shared epiphany during laundry day at their home. The concept? A detergent that was fully sustainable, from the soap to the packaging. Although they launched in the middle of the pandemic, their e-commerce background helped them to quickly gain some raving fans.During this episode of the Road to Seven, Angie and Bernie share the key insights and strategies that helped them successfully launch and build their brand. Listen now, and then join us in creating less household waste!You'll discover: How they sold out their first 3000 units (during a nightmare of pandemic logistical issues!) How they kept the trust and loyalty of their customers after running out of product and facing restocking delaysKey tips for nurturing a healthy and successful professional/personal partnership About Guests: Angie Tran and Bernard Law are the founders of Kind Laundry, which promotes zero-waste laundry through its award-winning detergent sheets — a better alternative to your traditional detergent. They wake up every morning excited by the impact they can make to our beautiful planet. Their products are sustainable, contain no harmful chemicals, and are much easier to use.Highlights: 00:01 Intro03:03 Founding Kind Laundry05:30 First business06:33 Finding the first customers08:23 Partnerships14:14 Overcoming the ‘sold-out' hurdle16:19 Funding17:42 Cruise vacation & team optimization23:39 First hires25:26 What's next?Links:Angie Tran & Bernie Lawhttp://www.kindlaundry.comTikTok: @kindlaundryInstagram: @kindlaundryWhat The Heck Is EOS & Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickmanhttps://ginowickman.com/booksTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedClick here to subscribe in iTunes for more conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins
“There's such guilt associated with NOT doing.”- Shelagh CumminsIn 2022, a study conducted by Mental Health Research Canada found that over one-third of Canadians are experiencing burnout. In our busy, hectic, challenging world, burnout can mean the difference between surviving and thriving… especially for entrepreneurs. As an entrepreneur, chances are you're constantly wearing multiple hats and juggling multiple tasks… even if you've already begun to build out your team. This level of stress, over time, can have powerful physical and psychological consequences.If you're standing at the edge of burnout — or fully struggling with burnout right now — then you won't want to miss this episode of the Road to Seven. I talk about all things burnout: what it really means, why it happens, and how you can get yourself out of it and back on your path to success!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The problems with working too frequently outside of your zone of genius The areas of your life and business where you need to shift in order to avoid hitting the wallThe four levels of self care — and the most important aspects that we tend to ignore! Highlights: 00:01 Intro01:40 Why we experience burnout02:50 Working outside your zone of genius04:23 Outside responsibilities05:18 Physical health self care08:20 Mental health self care09:44 Emotional health self care10:57 Spiritual health self care11:53 7 gears in your business13:12 Fulfilment, operations & team14:44 Finances16:27 Marketing & sales17:58 Support containerLinks: The Road to Seven Mastermindhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/the-road-to-seven-mastermindTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“When you're not willing to let go, you're not ready to scale. It's as simple as that.”- Shelagh CumminsAre you currently on the journey to evolve from a solopreneur into the CEO of a sustainable and profitable business — or embarking on this journey in the near future? If you're content with continuing to run a microbusiness as a solopreneur, that's perfectly all right. For many people, solopreneurship fits their needs and the needs of their family. If evolving into a CEO is something that you want, then I fully support you in this journey… and would love to help you smooth the path to your biggest and boldest goals.In this episode, I reveal what it's like behind the scenes of the transformational journey to CEO, from identifying your juicy business goals to letting go of the ownership of key responsibilities. While this journey requires grit and determination, the rewards can be incredible.Press play to discover the three signs that will let you know that it's time to make the shift, and why you need to show yourself patience and grace along the way.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll learn: The questions that you should be asking yourself in order to develop a clearer understanding of where you are right now… and where you want to go!The powerful decision that you need to make in order to make running your business worthwhile Why it's crucial to find a coach or a mentor that can give you the guidance that you need Highlights: 00:01 Intro01:51 It starts with clarity04:37 Microbusinesses can be perfect05:07 Signs it's time to shift07:14 2 strategic questions 08:49 Making your business worthwhile10:52 Avoiding strict timelines12:37 Guidance & coaching15:44 What are you willing to let go?18:54 Tweaking your systems & mindset21:46 Conclusion Links: Scalehttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/scale To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com The Road Blue Print Stay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review,” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Your time and energy is finite, and we need to protect it with everything that we've got.”- Shelagh CumminsAre you experiencing the “cash conundrum”? The cash conundrum is what I call it when you know that you need to make a strategic hire in order to take your business to the next level… but you just don't have oodles of money available to help you take that step.This is a common issue that affects many business owners at one point or another. So, how do you get over that hurdle and begin building out your perfect team?In this episode, I dive into the big decisions that you need to be ready to make when you reach the fateful intersection between solopreneur and CEO, why a virtual assistant may not be the best choice for your first hire, and why you need to price your offers as a company rather than as an entrepreneur.Listen now and you'll discover: The 3 things that you will need in order to grow your business — and the mindset shift that will help you prioritize!The infrastructure issue that may be holding you back from seeing the revenue and profit that you deserveHow to hire someone who will help you earn more revenue, in addition to helping to free up your time Highlights: 00:01 Intro01:43 3 things you need02:38 Cricut story05:12 Between solopreneur & CEO06:42 Which role should you hire first?07:28 Why you are probably underpricing10:20 How to make the shift12:59 Hiring for additional revenue14:28 Hiring options & example16:04 Scale program Links: Scalehttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/scale To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“How much do we need to do in order to feel like we are enough? And why do so many of us feel like we're not enough?”-Rachel SimmonsDo you struggle with feeling that you're never enough? Do you worry that your achievements never quite meet the expectations of those around you?My guest Rachel Simmons is an expert when it comes to the pressures that women put on ourselves. She is the author of Enough As She Is: How to Help Girls Move Beyond Impossible Standards of Success to Live Healthy, Happy, and Fulfilling Lives, which teaches girls self-compassion as an alternative to self-criticism, how to navigate toxic elements of social media, and how to manage overthinking—important skills that hold as much value for adults as they do for young women!In this conversation, we explore the culture of effortless perfectionism that so many of us live in, the expectations that we feel compelled to live up to, and how to break free.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover:The invisible barriers that contribute to the gender gap in senior leadership roles — and why women often misunderstand themWhy girls today are working a ‘second shift' on social media and how this impacts them in other areasWhy politicizing our realities can help to empower ourselves and the young women around usAbout Guest: Rachel Simmons is a New York Times bestselling author. As a leadership development expert and coach, Rachel helps people build their resilience, amplify their voices, and own their own courage. She serves on the faculty of the Google School for Leaders, is an associate with Cultivating Leadership, and co-founded the national nonprofit Girls Leadership. Highlights: 00:01 Intro03:05 Meet Rachel Simmons05:16 Political consciousness & gender gap08:01 Girls, anxiety & social media 09:31 “Culture of effortless perfectionism”12:47 Sharing our realities16:03 Tips for female executives19:39 Self worth24:28 Rachel's business story27:34 HBR story29:06 What she knows now & what's nextLinks: Rachel SimmonsRachel's BookFacebookIG: @racheljsimmons Celeste BarberIG: @celestebarber The Culture CodeTo work with me and make your next power move, visit here!Stay ConnectedSubscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business! Click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Women use their money for good. We play at the intersection of philanthropy and profit.”-Shelagh CumminsWhat would happen if female-owned businesses were financed at the same rate as those owned by men? While women make up the majority of all entrepreneurs, we are only granted 16% of business loans, accessing a total of just 4% of all lending capital. This despite the fact that investing in women entrepreneurs has been shown to have amazing benefits for not only their communities, but also for the investors that chose to believe in them!The theme of this year's International Women's Day is Embrace Equity. This is a mission that I have been working toward in my own business through the creation of the Road to Seven Capital Access Program, which is rewriting the rules when it comes to capital access by providing microloans to women business owners.In celebration of International Women's Day, this episode explores the incredible global impact that is created when we invest in women entrepreneurs!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover:How the Capital Access Program has revamped the traditional loan application and approval processWhat it means to run a microbusiness — and why these businesses are important!What women do with the money they earn and how they support their hidden microcosmHighlights: 00:01 Intro01:58 About the Road to Seven03:00 Loan processes04:06 Microbusinesses05:38 Mentor call story08:08 The bootstrapping trap09:45 Hidden microcosm12:32 Social good15:12 Biases about women entrepreneurs18:11 ConclusionLinks:International Women's Dayhttps://www.internationalwomensday.comCapital Access Programhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/capital-access-programScalehttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/scaleMy TEDx Talkhttps://www.ted.com/talks/shelagh_cummins_the_hidden_microcosm_of_women_entrepreneursPodcast supporthttps://theultimatecreative.comTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Sit with your bookkeeper or accountant, and look at what's feasible for you to borrow, vs. where that investment is going to go.”- Shelagh CumminsIs your business loan-ready? Growing and scaling successfully requires that you make key investments into your business. Seeking a business loan can feel intimidating — but you may find that the process feels a lot more comfortable when you take some time to prepare!For example, creating a relationship with your potential lender or lending institution beforehand will not only help you feel more confident in asking, but will help the lender feel more comfortable with the idea of giving you a loan.In this episode, you will learn how to prepare your business for your loan application, from keeping your books in order to ensuring that your credit scores are kept separate. If getting a business loan is on your To Do List for this year, then grab a pen and a notebook, and press play!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: What you should be doing in your business during the months leading up to your loan application How to create a basic business plan Online tools that you can use to keep your financials organized and generate necessary reports Highlights: 00:53 Intro02:02 Have your financials in order04:59 Look at what you've been given05:49 Know your credit score07:00 Taxes & loans08:23 Have a business plan09:08 Personal collateral11:07 What you can afford to borrow 13:27 Different types of loans14:34 Interest rates19:45 ConclusionLinks: Capital Access Programhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/capital-access-program https://www.theroadtoseven.com/investors To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Everything that I can do to build rapport is beneficial for me, so we don't have a miscommunication.”- Emily ChungWhen you have a limited amount of time with a customer, you must be able to share information efficiently. My guest for this episode has a secret weapon that helps her do exactly that — and she's happy to share!Emily Chung is a licenced Automotive Service Technician and the owner of AutoNiche, a family-friendly auto repair shop that offers a less intimidating auto repair experience, with non-judgmental and empowering service from reputable mechanics.(You may remember Emily from a past episode, where we talked about her experiences in the male-dominated automotive industry and the power of building a values-driven business!).In this episode, we dive into the amazing tool that Emily uses within her business to help her to communicate with her customers more effectively!You'll discover: The benefits of building rapport — and the personality profile that helps build it quicklyHow the AutoNiche is able to offer a consistent communication style adapted to each customerHow to write copy that appeals to all members of your audienceAbout Guest: Emily Chung owns and operates AutoNiche, an auto repair shop in Markham. She is a licensed Automotive Service Technician and teaches in the Automotive Business School of Canada at Georgian College while completing her Executive MBA. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario and is a proud mom of two teen boys.Highlights: 00:53 Intro01:42 Meet Emily Chung04:08 Why build rapport?07:01 DISC profile10:58 How it works15:41 Opposite types16:25 Communicating through copy17:49 Closing the deal20:24 Why DISC?22:24 Authenticity24:45 Communicating with kids26:18 High-stakes conversationsLinks:Emily Chunghttps://autoniche.cahttps://www.facebook.com/AutoNicheTwitter: @autonicheincInstagram: @autonicheincRoad to Seven Podcast - Niching Down In The Auto Industry with Emily Chung Personality Types Quadrant Sheet HERETo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedClick here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business! Click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Your business is going to be 10x stronger when you surround yourself with amazing people.”- Shelagh CumminsYour customers. Your team members. Your suppliers. Your audience. Your network. As you grow and scale your business, you will always be surrounded by people whom you rely on and people who rely on you. Learning how to love on the people in your business and make them feel appreciated is an important and often underlooked part of becoming a successful business owner. People are one of the most valuable assets of your business and it's important to know how to treat them well!This week's episode of the Road to Seven is all about loving on your team members, loving on your community, and loving on the main ticket to your success — YOU!Tune in to learn how to hire team members based on what your company truly needs (rather than what you think you can afford), how to build an emotional connection with the people who are buying from you, and why you need to be patient when taking empowered action toward your bigger vision!You'll discover: Why it is SO important that you create the time and space to celebrate your own success! The top ways that you may be making your team feel unloved — and how to help them feel engaged, appreciated, and enthusiastic!The problem with choosing to tolerate anything less than you deserve when it comes to revenue, flexibility, time freedom, and following your passion Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:37 Loving on you03:57 The problem with ‘tolerating'05:16 My core gifts story07:34 Stepping into empowered action08:37 Hiring based on strategy09:55 Loving on your team members12:02 Loving on your community14:18 Word-of-mouth marketing15:38 Conclusion Links: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“For the majority of entrepreneurs, we aren't running someone else's playbook — we're writing the playbook.”- Miranda LieversMiranda Lievers spends her time exploring the exciting possibilities relating to small business and technology. She is a co-founder & COO of Thinkific, an innovative all-in-one software platform that helps thought leaders create, market, and sell online courses and memberships with ease.In 2021, she and her team took Thinkific public, furthering the company's mission to make it simple for entrepreneurs and established businesses of any size to scale and generate revenue by teaching what they know.In this episode, Miranda shares the challenges that she faced and the insights that she discovered while building a successful tech business, including how Thinkific has changed since going public, how the business seeks valuable feedback from their customer base, and how they are preparing for the recession.You won't want to miss it!Listen now to discover: How Miranda began gaining real traction for Thinkific within a loud marketplace Why the founders chose the path to IPO and how they funded their growthWhat it means to be in the ‘Messy Middle' of your business growth — and the benefit of embracing your doubt!About Guest: Miranda Lievers is a Vancouver-based entrepreneur devoted to the intersection of small business and technology. As co-founder & COO of Thinkific, she's helped over 50,000 business owners grow their businesses with online courses and learning products while educating tens of millions of students around the globe. When not growing Thinkific, she's an active writer, mentor for women in business, and mom. Highlights: 00:53 Intro01:45 Meet Miranda Lievers05:21 Gaining traction in the marketplace07:17 Listening to customers10:58 Making changes based on feedback15:54 Going to IPO20:19 After the IPO22:13 The Messy Middle25:11 Dealing with tough times28:53 What she knows now30:08 Recession & what's next Links:Miranda Lievershttps://mirandalievers.comhttps://www.thinkific.comInstagram: @mirandalieversTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If we can see the impact and believe in women entrepreneurs… then I think we're going to rewrite history in a way that's very powerful.”- Shelagh CumminsAs you embark on your growth journey and work toward your biggest and boldest goals, being able to access the capital you need in order to invest in your business is crucial! From making a key hire to purchasing machinery to upleveling your advertising, your continued growth requires strategic investment — and getting that cash into your your hands can often feel almost impossible.While women make up 47% of all entrepreneurs, we only receive 16% of all business loans. Why is it still so challenging for women business owners to access capital? Women often own smaller businesses, which can face insurmountable hurdles when seeking loans from banks. When you go in to meet with a Loans Officer, there is a good chance that they are not looking at your business through a lens that allows them to truly see the value, the impact, and the profit that is possible.In this episode, I explore the pros and cons and do's and don'ts of a range of funding options, including banks, credit cards, retirement savings, family, and microlending.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The bias that exists against smaller businesses, including micro-businesses, and how it can affect you My personal story of seeking a business loan from two different banks — and what you may expect The Road to Seven Capital Access Program and what you need to know before applying! Highlights: 00:01 Intro03:13 The current capital situation04:54 Bias against micro-businesses06:22 Seeking bank loans09:19 Leveraging savings & retirement plans10:06 Friends & family10:55 Credit cards13:06 Microlending & Capital Access Program17:16 Mentor program19:46 Women's profits23:10 Join the Lives! Links: Capital Access Programhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/capital-access-program https://www.theroadtoseven.com/investors To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins
“You've got to collect data. You're not going to collect data in your head. You will only collect data by actually DOING.”- Salima ValjiDo you sometimes feel that you don't really have a voice, or that you are unheard? Then you need to meet Salima Valji! Salima is a coach, thought leader, speaker, and advocate for women of colour in the workplace. As the founder and CEO of Unleash Forward, she helps her clients claim their executive presence and speak confidently at the leadership table.Salima has had an absolutely inspiring entrepreneurial journey, and I am so thrilled to share it in this episode!During this conversation, we explore how to stop negative emotions like shame or fear from holding you back, how to let your niche find you (rather than the other way around), and why women tend to mute their own voices in so many situations.You won't want to miss it!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The path that Salima took to become a highly successful executive coachHow she reclaimed her presence, leadership, and role after a career setback How she helps other women find their voices at the leadership table About Guest: Salima Valji is the CEO and founder of Unleash Forward Inc., a purpose-driven leadership acceleration company that focuses on elevating more women and underrepresented leaders into leadership roles and the boardroom. She is an advocate for women of colour in the workplace and a sought-after speaker, coach, and thought-leader, frequently speaking on topics of advancing women of colour, leadership, and diversity. Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:39 Meet Salima Valji05:36 Trigger point, shame & reinvention09:32 Uniqueness as strength12:29 Finding your voice13:20 Why women mute themselves15:27 Business growth17:44 Doing the inner work20:43 Let your niche find you27:14 What she knows now28:16 What's next30:56 360 storyLinks: Salima Valjihttps://unleashforward.com https://ca.linkedin.com/in/salimavaljiTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“When you are selling and you are desperate for a client, your client can smell it.”- Shelagh CumminsBefore you spend a ton of money hiring another coach, subscribing to somebody else's system, or implementing a whole new set of tactics in order to increase your sales, you need to listen to this episode!I dive into the real reasons why your ideal customers may not be buying your offer at the rate that you would like — and those reasons may not be what you expect.Listen now to learn how and why your own actions may be inadvertently keeping your sales low and preventing you from building strong relationships with your dream clients.This episode will encourage you to remove the rose-coloured glasses and take a real and unfiltered look at the way that you do business, so grab your pen and notebook and get ready for some honest food for thought. In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Why selling from a position of desperation can wind up stacking your customer base with people who are the wrong fit The difference between making a sale for today and building an ongoing relationshipA real-life case study of exactly how to LOSE a sale — and what could be done differently Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:39 Gym story05:59 Selling while desperate v. abundant07:01 Making a sale for today08:15 Selling in integrity09:26 Don't apologize for your prices11:01 Worth & mindset12:03 Recap Links: The Road to Seven #152 - How Will You Achieve Your 2023 Goals? My Tips May Surprise You!To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Often, in the arts, you're actually seen as a sell-out if you're successful financially or commercially.”-Naomi ClementThe idea of the “starving artist” is romanticized in our culture. This image of the artist who sacrifices material success and lives on passion and creativity alone is a popular one, but you don't need to embrace the starving artist story in order to be a successful artist! My guest, Naomi Clement, is an incredibly talented, sought-after, and bad-ass potter and creative entrepreneur who helps artists embrace their power as creators, so they can step into the career of their dreams. While she had always been drawn to the arts, Naomi resisted becoming a professional artist for a long time, because the starving artist myth led her to believe that she would have to be poor. She worked in sales and marketing until she realized that her 9-to-5 office job was making her miserable and that pottery was her true passion. Now, Naomi is on a mission to challenge the way that society (and artists) value the arts — and to forever debunk the myth of the starving, depressed artist!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The steps Naomi had to move through before embracing her calling as a professonal artistHow she shifted from making pottery to selling pottery, and built up her customer base and Instagram communityHow she is rewriting the script for the artists she works withNaomi Clement is a Canadian artist and educator who explores ideas of home and belonging through the powerful lens of functional ceramics. Naomi believes that handmade pottery enriches our lives — one moment and one mug of coffee at a time!Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:49 Meet Naomi Clement05:43 Shifting to pottery & entrepreneurship07:00 From making to selling10:53 Building an Instagram community12:44 Becoming a teacher14:42 Starving artist myth17:35 Pricing & value24:13 Finding your voice25:32 Challenges29:01 What she knows now34:12 What's nextLinks:Naomi Clementhttps://naomiclement.comhttps://www.facebook.com/NaomiClementCeramicsInstagram: @naomikclementTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up!I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“When we set a goal, it's actually a subconscious way of choosing how we want to feel.”- Shelagh CumminsDreaming about your desired results is one thing. Actually following through and making them happen is another. That's why so many people stumble or lose momentum when it comes to turning their wishes into reality — even for something as simple as a new year's resolution! If you have some big, bold, juicy goals for your business that you're determined to achieve this year, then this is an episode for you!There is one often overlooked element to goal-setting that can make it much easier to remain in empowered action and on track to achieving your goals: emotion. The goals that we set are subconsciously associated with a feeling that we want to have. We set revenue goals because we want to feel successful or secure. We set fitness goals because we want to feel attractive or strong. We set financial goals because we want to feel abundant or safe.Our desired results have an emotional component to them, and it's important to keep that in mind when setting your goals — because this emotional side to goal-setting is the secret key to actually achieving what it is that you want!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Why so many women tend to think and play small, rather than work toward the goals they TRULY want to achieve Why the way that we feel directly influences the results that we see — and how to choose to feel differentlyThe ‘Be, Do, Have' approach — and how to uplevel your mindset in order to experience greater success! Highlights: 00:01 Intro03:01 Emotional side of goal-setting04:10 Challenging how we feel05:21 Be, Do, Have08:33 Coaching 101 Links: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“You've got to be standing behind your product. You cannot cut corners.”- Shelagh CumminsAre you selling for today? Or are you selling for tomorrow? When we sell for today, we are focused on short-term goals and gratification — and we aren't thinking about the long-term ramifications and impact for our businesses.Selling for today can take a few different forms. You could skimp out on quality in order to save some money. You could refuse a reasonable request for a refund or replacement. You could base your pricing on vanity metrics, rather than on real value. The result? You may get (and keep) the profit for a handful of sales… but you'll miss out on the positive word-of-mouth and repeat business that would help you continue to build your revenue, client base, and reputation.If you want a long-lasting business that will scale with more ease and serve you for years to come, then you'll definitely want to listen to this episode!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: The difference between selling for today and selling for tomorrow — and why it's so important How to sell with integrity and with confidence Real-life examples of what can happen when you're too dazzled by the short-term gains to think about the long-term impact Highlights: 00:01 Intro01:11 Hockey tournament refund example07:04 Ornament misrepresentation example09:53 Vanity metrics 10:56 White Mercedes example13:10 Commission breath14:54 Sales tactics16:31 Conclusion Links: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“I was a doer of many things, and I loved doing all of them — and at the same time, my messaging was a little bit jumbled.”- Nadine MoffatAs an action-focused entrepreneur, you may not often create the space and the quiet you need to listen to your inner voice… but putting in that effort can lead to incredible benefits!My guest Nadine Moffat has been referred to as, and resonates with, the words mystic, lightworker, channel, intuit, healer, guide, Nordic Witch, and empath. She began her awakening journey 25 years ago and has learned the value of embracing stillness and listening to her inner wisdom. As an Intuitive Coach and Energy Healer, she guides others to move into a deeper awareness and connection within themselves.In this episode, Nadine and I explore the power of tapping into your deeper wisdom and clearing static from your inner antenna. Listen now to learn about her inspiring journey, how she put her own unique spin on coaching, and how the pandemic pushed her right out of her comfort zone (and why she is so grateful that it did!).You'll discover: How she narrowed down her niche and found clarity and alignmentThe difference between masculine and feminine energies — and how we should use bothWhat reiki is and how it can help you access breakthroughsAbout Guest: Nadine Moffat works internationally as an Intuitive Coach and Energy Healer, grounded in the desire to guide others inward, to connect with their best and highest selves. She continues along her own path of healing, guided in mentorship, working to embody her learnings. Overjoyed to share it all with her teen twins and a fur baby named Charlie, she spends her downtime walking by the water and connecting with nature. Highlights: 00:01 Intro05:00 Meet Nadine Moffat08:00 Pandemic shift & finding clarity11:30 Inner voice, energies & surrender17:09 Creating space for emotions18:49 Gender roles19:55 Reiki experience25:30 Trusting the messages28:17 What she knows now32:10 What's nextLinks:Nadine Moffathttps://becomingstill.cahttps://www.facebook.com/becomingstillhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/becomingstillInstagram: @becoming_stillTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Food is such a personal and beautiful thing. The easier you can make a choice, the better.” -Jessica KwongRecognizing a gap in the market is one thing. Coming up with a solution is another. But taking your brilliant idea and moving it along the path from “idea” to “reality” is a step that few people actually take.My guest Jessica Kwong not only took that journey, but she is also willing to draw a map! Jessica is the founder and CEO of Jack & Friends, a company that sells plant-based jerky with an emphasis on quality and inclusivity. In this episode, I sit down with Jessica to talk about how she took her amazing idea from the test kitchen to the store shelf.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover:The biggest challenge that she faced while commercializing her prototypeHer incredible “all-inclusive” philosophy for her Jack & Friends products and what inspired itHow she found her first buyers — and how she is using analytics to shape her rebrand!About Guest: Jessica Kwong is the founder and CEO of Jack & Friends, a company creating plant-based jerky from jackfruit and pea protein. Jack & Friends believe in inclusivity — especially when it comes to food. They are committed to crafting products you can feel good about eating, regardless of your lifestyle or diet, so you can enjoy food without compromising on quality. Jessica used her technical background, which includes a B.S. in Food Science from Cornell University, and corporate experience to launch and lead her successful startup.Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:41 Meet Jessica Kwong & jackfruit06:34 Jessica's background07:57 “All-inclusive food”09:25 Biggest advantages & challenges11:51 Grit & focus13:21 Hiring14:13 Getting onto the shelf16:44 Getting & applying feedback19:20 Analytics & brand refresh20:45 What she knows now22:02 Raising capital23:41 What's nextLinks:Jessica Kwonghttps://www.jackandfriendsjerky.comhttps://www.facebook.com/jackandfriendsjerkyInstagram: @jackandfriendsjerkyTikTok: @jackandfriendsjerkyRevolutionHER AwardsTo work with me and make your next power move, visit here.Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe to iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below.Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“By believing that you can make the perceived impossible possible, you're opening up a whole new opportunity realm.”- Shelagh CumminsAre you looking for a little bit of insight into how to make your 2023 the best it can be (without having to choose a “word for the year” or journal about the past 12 months)? If so, then this episode is for you — I'm sharing three vital lessons that will help you find more success with less struggle.Here's a sneak peek: when you take your business results as a personal failure, you're setting yourself up for disappointment and frustration — and, eventually, you'll probably wind up shutting down your business! This year, I want you to take a step back and disconnect your sense of self-value from your business outcomes. Sure, your marketing may need a little tweaking, but that doesn't reflect who you are as a person.Want to hear more? Listen now to learn why you need to show yourself more grace during launches, why some popular ideas around goal-setting may not hit the mark, and what fear can do for us.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: How to stop fighting so hard to get the results that you want in your business — and what to do insteadHow you may be inadvertently limiting your accomplishments through the process of setting your goals — and how to welcome a wealth of possibilitiesWhy you need to stop fearing fear (and how it can teach us the lesson of courage) Highlights: 00:01 Intro02:28 Stop fighting with your business03:38 “Success” & self-worth08:06 Setting attainable goals10:06 Capital Access Program example12:08 What's your goal?13:40 Nothing wrong with fear Links: Capital Access Programhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/capital-access-program To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Let's just try it and see if it works — and if people are into it, then we'll keep doing more of THAT.”- Chris GrahamThroughout his career, Chris Graham worked at one the world's top banking law firms and one of Canada's top Indigenous rights law firms — before leaving the legal profession to launch his own business as a speaking coach. Since then, he has taught over 8,000 people how to create better connections with their teams and clients through his TellPeople brand. As a matter of fact, he helped me get onto the TEDx stage!Tune in to hear about how Chris handles the challenges and lows of entrepreneurship, the biggest question he asks potential clients during discovery calls, and why he is the “most retired” person I've had on the podcast!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Why the most important thing you can do on stage is to detach from the outcome of your performace The importance of knowing your lane and your most powerful opportunities for creating impact Why you need to learn how to say No as you become more successfulAbout Guest: Chris Graham teaches lawyers and other professionals how to connect with their clients and teams. Since 2016, he's trained over 8,000 people at North America's leading law firms, large and small companies, government agencies, and charities. In 2022, he was Head of Speaker Coaching at TEDxToronto and the Storyteller-in-Residence at Manifest Climate, a global technology firm.Highlights: 00:01 Intro04:11 Meet Chris Graham05:44 “Consolidating the markup”07:25 Getting his first client10:51 Being persistent & discovering his value12:33 Selling in integrity16:40 Learning how to say no17:38 Chris's workshops & process20:13 Handling challenges21:51 Detaching from outcomes25:01 Onboarding question25:47 Key turning points30:37 What he knows now34:40 What's nextLinks:Chris Grahamhttps://www.tellpeople.cahttps://ca.linkedin.com/in/chris-graham-a94b97b7To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://theroadtoseven.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“When you figure out how you want to feel and begin to reverse-engineer that, that's where the magic happens.”-Heather ChauvinYou will not want to miss today's powerful interview! My guest Heather Chauvin started her career as a social worker, but pivoted sharply in 2013 when she received a stage 4 cancer diagnosis and experienced a significant mindset shift. Now, Heather is a celebrated leadership coach who helps women thrive in all areas in their lives, on their own terms, hosts the Emotionally Uncomfortable podcast, where she helps her listeners conquer their fear, create the lives they want, and become the women they were born to be, and is the author of Dying To Be A Good Mother: How I Dropped the Guilt and Took Control of My Life & Parenting.In this episode, she shares some truly valuable lessons regarding embracing discomfort, cultivating vulnerability, and better understanding our emotional selves.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: How reconnecting with the feminine nature of ‘being,' rather than ‘doing,' will help you be more present for the people in your lifeWhy it can feel so hard to take action — and what we are ACTUALLY resisting What can happen when you shift your focus from the end result to the journeyHeather Chauvin is a leadership coach who helps successful women courageously and authentically live, work, and parent on their own terms. She has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Real Simple Magazine, Mind Body Green, Google, and more.Highlights:02:58 Meet Heather Chauvin05:31 Leaving social work & receiving diagnosis08:27 Doing v. being15:32 Perfectionism as a coping strategy19:11 Resistance to feeling23:10 It's okay to feel uncomfortable27:45 Dying To Be A Good Mother30:29 Moving to the next level36:01 What she knows now36:54 What's nextLinks:Heather Chauvinhttps://heatherchauvin.comhttps://heatherchauvin.com/book-orderhttps://www.facebook.com/heatherchauvincoachingInstagram: @heatherchauvin_The Energy Finder QuizTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“What's really important to us is that whatever leaves our hands with our name on it is top of the line.”-Trisha PituraGet ready to be inspired! In this episode of the Road to Seven, I sit down with Trisha Pitura and Mélanie Bernard, the founders of the online boutique and manufacturing company MINI TIPI. Through the MINI TIPI brand, Trisha and Mélanie design, make, and sell products featuring gorgeous, authentic Indigenous designs — and use their profits and platform to support artists and their community.In this thoughtful conversation, we explore the importance of story to the pieces sold through their brand, the impact that they hope to create for their families, team, and their wider community, and the biggest challenges they've faced along the way.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: How Trisha's hobby of sewing baby wash cloths evolved into a successful clothing and accessories brandThe process of turning a design idea into a finished product — and how they work with their artistsHow they have successfully maintained their friendship while growing their business partnershipAbout Guests: MINI TIPI was founded in 2016 by Trisha Pitura and Mélanie Bernard. It is a women-owned manufacturing company that designs, creates, and sells beautiful products that are made for everyone. They use authentic indigenous designs to celebrate and reclaim Canadian art and culture. Their exclusive designs are woven on beautiful, high-quality, eco-friendly fabric in Italy. They design, cut, and sew all their products in Gatineau, Quebec, with their amazing team. Highlights: 00:01 Intro03:38 Meet Trisha Pitura & Mélanie Bernard04:49 MINI TIPI origin08:03 MINI TIPI evolution10:08 Exclusivity & symbolism13:01 From design to fabric13:51 Funding16:14 Biggest challenges21:56 Mixing business & friendship25:29 Hiring28:55 Impact32:02 What they know now34:01 What's nextLinks:MINI TIPIwww.minitipi.cawww.linkedin.com/company/mini-tipiwww.facebook.com/minitipiTiktok: @minitipi.caInstagram: @mini.tipiTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Women access only 4% of the lending capital that is available.”- Shelagh CumminsHave you ever tried to access a loan, a line of credit, or a credit card for your company… and been turned down? Even if you were already successful? For women entrepreneurs (myself included), this is an all-too-common experience.It's a sad reality that many smart, ambitious, and capable female entrepreneurs struggle to access the funding they need to grow and scale their businesses. Even as women continue to found a significant number of micro- and small businesses, women entrepreneurs remain the most overlooked and undervalued sector of the economy by banks and investors.At the Road to Seven Capital Inc., we are working hard to rewrite the rules of business financing for women through our Capital Access Program, which will provide women entrepreneurs with access to game-changing micro-loans ranging from $5k to $50k!This episode dives into the dysfunctional loan application and approval process that many women struggle with as they seek funding from conventional sources — and how we are working to change things.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Why and how the current loan application and approval process is broken — and what that means for women entrepreneursA breakdown of how our Capital Access Program works and why it offers so much more than fundingWhy women entrepreneurs are an incredible investment Highlights: 01:02 Intro02:07 Why micro-loans?03:39 Conventional sources of capital05:43 Building a business on credit cards07:15 Line of credit, payday loans & revenue08:55 Statistics10:15 Loan application & approval process11:52 Capital Access Program14:29 Why invest in women?Links: Capital Access Programhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/capital-access-program To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“The excitement of starting a business can sometimes blind us from truly understanding the challenges that we may have ahead.”- Andreea VanackerDr. Andreea Vanacker is the founder and CEO of SPARKX5, a mental well-being technology company that helps organizations elevate their human potential and create cultures of curiosity and growth. Her work focuses on finding synergies between neuroscience, positive psychology, leadership, human resilience, and purpose. While SPARKX5 was founded just a couple of years ago, Andreea has since expanded it into an impressive North American empire!In this conversation, Andreea shares her biggest challenges, most powerful mindset shifts, and the inspiration behind her first book and program, Successonality.In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover:What led Andreea to become a serial entrepreneur — and how she landed her first clientThe foundational pieces that Andreea put in place BEFORE leaving her corporate position in order to better enjoy her entrepreneurial journeyHow Andreea's psychological and neuroscience background helped her to prepare for her TED TalkAbout Guest: Dr. Andreea D. Vanacker is an author of three books, an international speaker, and has been featured in over 100 Forbes and Fast Company articles on topics that inspire leaders to create human-centric organizations and individuals to thrive. She is the founder and CEO of SPARKX5 and a partner in the 5th Element, an impact consultancy firm. Andreea holds a Ph.D. in Economics, with degrees in Business and Finance, and speaks four languages.Highlights:01:17 Intro02:52 Meet Dr. Andreea Vanacker04:33 Getting her first client07:14 Successonality10:15 Leaving the corporate world12:26 Start-up mode14:05 Sales & marketing16:35 Pricing18:13 Kindness & gratitude22:17 Health crisis & funding27:42 What she knows now29:22 What's nextLinks:Andreea Vanackerhttps://www.sparkx5.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/andreeadutescuhttps://www.successonality.comHow to Find Joy in Adversityhttps://www.ted.com/talks/dr_andreea_vanacker_how_to_find_joy_in_adversityTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business! Join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I'd love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below.Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Just because there is economic turmoil all around us, it doesn't mean we have to be affected.”- Shelagh CumminsIf you've become worried about and preoccupied with what COULD happen during the recession, then this episode will help you refocus on your next power moves and set yourself up for your best-case scenario!Cards on the table: there WILL be an economic downturn. That is a fact. In fact, the recession has already begun — you may have already noticed an effect on your own finances or on the finances of those close to you. But focusing on the things that you can't control takes your attention away from those you CAN.Tune in to learn the moves that you can make right now to recession-proof your business, how lessons learned during the pandemic will help you stay on track during the downturn, and why the looming recession holds a secret silver lining for entrepreneurs!Remember — if you survived the pandemic, then you're already strong enough to get through the recession!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll discover: Why being a small business owner at this moment is actually advantageous Two questions that can help drive every decision you make during a time of crisisWhen you should decline offers or upgrades when it comes to new loans or lines of credit — and when you should acceptHighlights: 01:03 Intro02:20 What is a recession?03:30 Our advantages04:41 Pandemic lessons06:22 Cash flow & stockpiling08:13 Releasing dead weight09:49 Monitoring your accounts11:17 Taking on new debt14:04 Why me?16:02 Why now?18:26 Recap Links: Capital Access Programhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/capital-access-program To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you! Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“If I have the right mindset, I can deal with anything… part of my growth has been to learn how I can switch from one mindset to the other quickly.”- Emily ChungEmily Chung has always been driven to succeed, even if her road to success has had the occasional speed-bump! Emily is a licenced Automotive Service Technician and the owner of AutoNiche, a family-friendly auto repair shop. Emily founded AutoNiche to offer her clients a friendlier and less intimidating auto repair experience, providing non-judgmental and empowering client service from reputable mechanics.Dive into this fascinating conversation to discover Emily's experiences as a woman in the automotive industry, the biggest lessons that she has learned along the way, and the benefit of throwing yourself a “structured pity party” (it really works)!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll learn:What led Emily down the road to owning an auto repair shop after earning a Psychology in Business degree and starting a career as a psychometristHow she has grown a business that is strongly and unapologetically shaped by her valuesPowerful reframes and mindset shifts that you can start implementing right now!About Guest: Emily Chung owns and operates AutoNiche, an auto repair shop in Markham. She is a licensed Automotive Service Technician and teaches in the Automotive Business School of Canada at Georgian College, while currently completing her Executive MBA. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario, has appeared on various media including Breakfast Television and Cityline, and is a proud mom of two teen boys. Highlights:01:02 Intro02:59 Meet Emily Chung06:11 Path to entrepreneurship07:31 Gender & automotive industry12:23 Leading with values & intention17:47 Mindset & adaptability21:17 Opportunities & pity parties24:30 Making decisions27:56 Skills are key29:39 Perceptions31:31 What she knows now33:36 What's nextLinks:Emily Chunghttps://autoniche.cahttps://www.facebook.com/AutoNicheTwitter: @autonicheincInstagram: @autonicheincTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” . I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
“Your business is not about you.”- Shelagh CumminsHave you been hiding away when you should have been showing up, speaking out, and selling your offers? If you've been hoping that your offers will sell themselves, then you definitely want to listen to this episode!It's no secret that many entrepreneurs consider sales to be their least favourite part of running their business — and often their weakest skill. “Selling” can conjure up the image of a sleazy, pushy salesman, but letting others know about the incredible transformation that your offer can provide is actually a service. Think about it: if you see someone struggling and you know that your offer could help them thrive, then aren't you doing them a disservice by not sharing it?You should be selling your program wherever you are, whenever you can, whether you're on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, email, LinkedIn, or bumping elbows at a conference or networking event. Press play to discover a powerful way to reframe the act of selling — and what you must understand about the word “no”!In this episode of the Road to Seven podcast, you'll learn: Why building your marketing around avoiding a “no” prevents you from truly serving your audience Why it can actually be a GOOD thing to lose newsletter subscribers through selling to your listA great rule-of-thumb when it comes to including your products in your content Highlights: 01:02 Intro03:23 Your business is bigger than YOU04:54 Selling to your mailing list06:09 Content creation07:23 Spread the word everywhere09:16 Speaker example11:34 My program example12:39 Recap15:43 Feelings aren't permanent Links: To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com Stay Connected Like what you're hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don't miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I'd also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me! Instagram: @shelaghcummins Twitter: @shelaghcummins https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins
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