Show Your Business Who's Boss

In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of one of the most anticipated events in the No BS world — our annual in-person retreat in Brooklyn, NY! With 60 students flying in from around the globe, I share what goes into planning an experience that's equal parts strategic deep dive and soul-fueling celebration.You'll hear why in-person connection is a game-changer for business growth, how the retreat is intentionally designed to unlock transformation, and yes, how I convinced a huge name and a hero of mine to come speak to our small-but-mighty community (spoiler: it involves a lot of heart and a little chutzpah).If you've ever wondered what makes the No BS retreat feel like a business homecoming or you're craving a clearer path to a freedom-filled, profitable business, this one's for you.Tune into this episode to hear:Why I host 60 people at my apartment to kick things off (yes, my bedroom door is open—literally)The mindset shifts and strategy breakthroughs we create when we get in the room togetherThe big reach we made this year that absolutely paid offWhat past attendees have said about how this retreat transformed their confidence, business, and even led to a TEDx TalkMentioned:Hillary Weiss on Instagram: @hcweissTalking ShrimpLaura Belgray on Instagram: @laurabelgrayThe Fuller Center for HousingSeth GodinE. 145: Emily Wilkins on How Niching Down and Owning That Niche Allowed Her Business to ThriveE. 219: Eleanor Hancock on Making the Big Leap, Changing Everything in Their Business, and Finding the Most Valuable Piece of Any Client ProjectThe dilemma of the timid trailblazer | Eleanor Hancock | TEDxBrayford PoolResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

A few weeks ago, I did something that I never thought I would ever do in a million years. It was so out there that I can't believe that it has come and gone and I did it.What did I do? I got up on stage as the lead, and only, singer in a rock band.Am I a singer? Hell no. So how on earth did I find myself signing up for the terrifying prospect of singing live in front of a room full of people?Today I'm going to tell you why I did it and why I'm so glad that I did it not only for myself, but for my business and for all of you.Tune into this episode to hear:The real gift of doing things that scare the crap out of youWhy entrepreneurs need to push their boundaries all the timeWhy it matters to me that I walk the walk and do hard thingsWhat's better than doing it perfectlyMentioned:When You Bank True Confidence, Anything Is Possible | TED TalkE. 11 - Influence, Being Your Brand, and How to Command the Attention of Any Room with Brett Lavender Resources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Let's not sugarcoat it. AI is changing everything. And yes, it's already coming for your creative agency.But not everyone is at risk. Let's talk about what you need to do in order to protect yourself from AI and any other future tech disruptions. Tune into this episode to hear:What we can all learn from the rise of tools like Squarespace, Fiverr, and CanvaHow leaning in to the value of your process sets you apart The key skill that AI can never replicateThree essential steps to future-proof your creative businessResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I'm excited to share a conversation with an amazing teacher of mine, the one and only Selena Soo.Selena is a wonderfully kind and generous person who wants to lift up others by teaching us how to better show up and forge real, rich relationships with each other. In this episode, we talk about the insights from her new book Rich Relationships: Create a Million-Dollar Network for Your Business.Selena Soo is a 7-figure business mentor, who helps experts and authors reach millions with their message. Through dozens of multi-6 figure and 7-figure launches, Selena has generated over $13 million in revenue in her first 10 years of business. She has also built more than 400 affiliate and referral partnerships.An expert in publicity, Selena has helped thousands of entrepreneurs land media, in places that include O, The Oprah Magazine, Forbes, Business Insider, and The Drew Barrymore Show.A former New Yorker, Selena is living her dream life in sunny Puerto Rico.Tune into this episode to hear:Why building real, intentional connections is more important than being at every networking eventHow investing time, creativity, and resources into relationships reaps big returnsThree key phases to seeking and developing a rich relationshipSimple ways to intentionally give and add value to your relationshipsSelena's six circles of connection framework that will help you manage relationshipsLearn more about Selena Soo:WebsiteInstagram: @selena_sooConnect on LinkedInRich Relationships: Create a Million-Dollar Network for Your BusinessResources:Get the first four chapters of Rich Relationships plus bonus scripts!No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

When the economy is in turmoil, a lot of business owners get really scared. This is understandable! When we don't know what's going to happen, fear is totally normal. And it doesn't help that we live in a 24/7 news and social media cycle that is most likely feeding you a lot of scary news, information, and opinions.You might be afraid that your clients are going to disappear, that your business will shrink, and that you'll find yourself in a really dangerous place financially.So today, I want to talk about those fears, how I would think about it, and what you can do to shield yourself for whatever turmoil might come along with a more depressed economy.Tune into this episode to hear:Why pulling back and shrinking down your business is not the answerTwo student success stories on using unexpected downtime to catapult their businesses forwardWhy the right clients are always going to be willing to invest for high-value servicesWhat you need to focus on right now to make sure your business weathers the stormResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

What if the only thing standing between you and the business you actually want is you?In this firecracker of an episode, I sit down with leadership coach and mindset magician Gary Montalvo, who serves up truth bombs about personal responsibility, entrepreneurial avoidance, and why waiting for Oprah (or referrals) is not a strategy.This episode is a loving kick in the pants for every creative, coach, or small biz owner who's stuck in "busy" but not making real moves. Gary's blend of heart, humor, and no-BS wisdom will leave you thinking way differently about your business and yourself.About Gary Montalvo:For almost two decades, Gary Montalvo has been a powerhouse behind business strategies and leadership programs for numerous entrepreneurs, startups and corporations. Most recently he worked with LimeLife by Alcone as the Chief Growth Officer, where he worked on the sales and recruitment strategies for the company globally.He has delivered hundreds of speeches, workshops, and trainings to audiences internationally and is also the host of The Ownership Game Podcast. He brings a contagious authentic energy to his audiences that's not just feel good, but practical and implementable. Tune into this episode to hear:Why ownership is the real secret to momentumHow to stop pretending you're “confused” and start making movesThe sneaky ways entrepreneurs avoid what really mattersWhy your monkey brain is sabotaging you—and what to do about itHow to follow up, show up, and sell without being creepyLearn more about Gary Montalvo:WebsiteInstagram: @garymontalvoYouTube: @GaryMontalvoCoachingThe Ownership Game PodcastResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Tell me if this sounds like you.Your business is going okay. You're making enough money. But you want to level up. You want to invest in yourself and your business to get there.But you just need a little more money before you can justify the investment. Or maybe your business isn't going so well. You're struggling to find and close clients. You know you need to invest in learning the skills it takes to turn your business into a success.But you need to land one more client before you can think about spending the money to learn those skills.You see the contradiction, right?These are two of the most common excuses I hear from business owners about why they can't invest in themselves and their businesses.Today I want to break down why so many of us hold onto the idea that we need to make the money first in order to invest in ourselves.Tune into this episode to hear:Why waiting until you have “enough” money to invest in your business is keeping you stuck in survival modeWhy the fastest path to making more money is investing in your ability to make moneyHow investing real money in learning new skills makes you take action differentlyWhy putting off investing in your business costs you money in the long runResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

“I can't go out and talk about my business until I figure out what my niche is.”I hear this all the time. And don't get me wrong, I love a niche and I think you should have one.But the thing is, obsessing over your niche too early in your business can actually hold you back instead of helping you. If you think you have to be absolutely clear on your niche or your audience before you can put your name out there and look for business, you might be making a huge mistake that will set you back.Niching only works when you do it the right way. Today, I'm going to explain why that is and how to do it successfully.Tune into this episode to hear:Why picking a niche can totally backfire if you're missing this one thingHow working with different types of clients helps you find your niche What you need to do to validate if a niche is the one for youMentioned:E. 145: Emily Wilkins on How Niching Down and Owning That Niche Allowed Her Business to ThriveResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

You're in the branding, design, website, or marketing business, so obviously you want a killer website and branding for yourself. How else are you going to demonstrate that you know what you're doing and attract the right clients?This is true.But if you're waiting until your website or your branding is perfect before you make any other investment in your business, you are waiting too long.A beautiful, finished website is not a necessity for getting out there and starting to build your business and make money. Same goes for updating your website if you're struggling with referrals and closing sales.Today, I'm going to tell you why and what you need to focus on instead.Tune into this episode to hear:Why a website is not a sales strategyThe key elements of your business that need your energy long before your websiteWhy your brand and website will actually resonate only after you're successfully sellingResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

KyAlea Monma came into No BS Agencies Mastery firing on all cylinders and she has had incredible results with the actions she's taken. She's been a consistent example of how it is to show up for yourself, your business, and our community. It's been truly inspiring to witness her journey and I'm excited for you to hear her story.KyAlea Monma is a visionary strategist and brand architect, and the founder of HOKU Design Group. With over 20 years of branding expertise, a master's in media design, and a background leading global teams, she helps founders build bold, magnetic brands rooted in their Brand DNA. Through her Master Brand framework, KyAlea empowers service-based businesses to scale with clarity, influence, and unstoppable momentum—turning ambition into action and action into legacy.Tune into this episode to hear:Why and how KyAlea rebuilt her businessThe problem with niching too soon.How being part of the No BS community helped KyAlea define her strengths and own her unique approachHow she found her unique voice in a crowded industryThe changes KyAlea made to put more breathing room in her scheduleLearn more about KyAlea Monma:HOKU Design GroupConnect on LinkedInResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I have a sneaking suspicion that we've got a fair number of perfectionists in our No BS community. Perfectionism can be an incredible asset. But we, perfectionists, can also get stuck repeating the “right” way of doing something, even when it's inefficient or overly complicated.In this episode, I break down how you can simplify your business and free up space in your life.Tune into this episode to hear:Why complexity doesn't equal value (and how it can actually hurt your business)The emotional shift of simplifying your offers (hint: it feels so good)How clients love simplicity—and why it helps you stand outResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

In 2014, our business collapsed.Credit cards maxed out. $40,000 in debt. No idea how we were going to get out of that hole.Flash forward twelve months and Steve and I had generated $500,000 in sales by changing to the No BS Agencies Model. It was a huge milestone for us after we'd struggled so much.You might have heard me tell that story before. It shows how quickly committing to the right strategy can turn your business around.What I don't often share is that we never, ever chased $500K again. In this episode, I share what happened, why we changed our goals, and why it's actually a more common experience than you'd think.Tune into this episode to hear:The new challenge that comes when you go from not enough money or clients to raking in salesWhy you have to remember your priorities and how you want to live your life when you're saying yes or no to workHow aiming lower–while still covering your needs–and giving yourself time and space helps your businessResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I'm excited to catch up with one of my favorite students from the early days of No BS Agencies Mastery.  Jason Knight shares his story and how he's used the No BS model to completely transform how he runs his business so that he can live a life of freedom and ease with his family.Jason Knight amplifies authority. He is a communication expert, branding guru and the owner of AskJasonKnight, an agency helping knowledge experts and speakers make an impact with their ideas by uncomplicating their business from the inside out, all within 30 days.   Tune into this episode to hear:Why running his business under the traditional model was running Jason into the groundThe aha moment that led Jason to making better connections with his audienceHow Jason found the sweet spot for his pricing that leaves everyone happyThe key mindset shifts that have dramatically changed Jason's business and his lifeLearn more about Jason Knight:AskJasonKnightConnect on LinkedInResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I know many successful female entrepreneurs who get to certain levels of success but find themselves feeling empty or underwhelmed despite achieving their ambitious goals. I've been there myself.Which is why I'm excited to share my conversation with a dear friend and colleague, Amira Alvarez.Amira is an absolute powerhouse who has achieved a remarkable five-fold income increase in a single year and has built a multi-million dollar company. But what really makes her special is that she found harmony between ambitiousness, spaciousness, and contentment in her work and life.This is what she helps others do today. Her methodology for crafting an exquisite life allows the high-achieving women she works with to embrace their inner drive while finding deep fulfillment, and to develop a richer life, inside and out.Amira Alvarez, founder and CEO of The Unstoppable Woman and host of The Unstoppable Woman podcast, is a celebrated entrepreneur, who inspires already accomplished women to achieve further financial wealth and success while leading fulfilling lives. Amira challenges the notion that we can't have it all, leading a movement that redefines possibilities, potential, power, and ambition for women.Tune into this episode to hear:Why tactical moves in your business can only take you so farThe emotional roller coaster of entrepreneurship, including self-sabotageHow the emotional and identity set points we develop in childhood subconsciously impact our businesses as adultsUnlocking the core wounds holding us back Why Ameera believes it's easier to make a lot of money than a little moneyLearn more about Amira Alvarez:The Unstoppable WomanThe Unstoppable Woman PodcastResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Picking a specific audience to speak to is a fast track to being seen as an expert. Speaking to a specific audience will help you quickly build authority in that space and stand out from the crowd. Trouble is, most people do it wrong.We've been talking about how to be seen as an expert by your prospects and clients — even before you've built authority online. In this episode, I'm talking about niching. I'll explain what it really means and share the biggest mistake I see people make. Tune into this episode to hear:The best time (and the worst time) to commit to a nicheHow to pick a niche (the No BS way)Why having a niche helps you build authority fastHow a niche helps you stand out to prospectsResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

When you sell anything creative, a client is hiring you to create something custom and new for them, that  they're going to love and that will help them get closer to their goals.We are asking people to give us their hard-earned cash and trust us. Trust that we're going to show up and do an amazing job. Trust that we're going to deliver something of value.  That's quite a promise.It's no wonder that prospects are scared about taking a leap of faith and spending large sums of money on hiring us.So how do they end up trusting us enough to buy?Tune into this episode to hear:What helps clients trust in your expertiseHow to take control of sales conversations with confidence and clarityThe exact framework I teach to turn six-month projects into two-day intensives (without sacrificing quality)Real-life stories of businesses that transformed by tightening their process.Resources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Wouldn't you love to be seen as an authority figure, a respected expert professional who always has a list of prospects ready to pay the prices that you charge?This is one of the most common things that we hear from people who join our program, No BS Agency Mastery.  When people don't view you as the expert that you are, you run into all kinds of trouble running your business. Bargaining with people who can't or don't want to pay what you charge. Clients questioning and pushing back on your work, making projects take twice as long. And struggling to close clients in the first place. It can be incredibly demoralizing and frustrating.When you think of authority, you might envision someone with a large platform, people with books, speaking engagements, podcasts, tons of followers online. But you don't have to wait until you've built an authority machine out in the world to get the respect–and the pay–that your expertise deserves.This month, I'll be sharing strategies that you can implement right now to start building your authority and ability to command the prices you want and run projects that don't go out of scope and drain your energy and profit.Tune into this episode to hear:How the traditional proposal process undermines your authority with clientsHow the lead product strategy transforms how clients view and value your work—before they hire you.How I turned a $2,000 logo request into a $20,000 rebranding project by showing up as the expert.Resources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Sarah Noel Block has been thriving inside the Mastery community, implementing our model in her marketing business — showing everyone that even though the model was designed with one to two person branding agencies in mind, the principles can apply to any creative services business.In this episode, Sarah shares one strategy in particular that anyone could use to support their business: Online Events. Sarah is a master at using online events to bring people into her world, make connections, and generate quality leads. And she tells us how she does it.Sarah Noel Block has rocked the content world for 16 years. She's supported big shots like apartments.com and Prudential, but her heart lies with small teams. As the creator of the StrategicSpark Workshop, the StrategicStory, and Tiny Marketing Framework, she's a master at helping tiny teams achieve big results. With an award-winning content platform under her belt and features in Entrepreneur, Forbes, and Thrive, Sarah knows her stuff. She's like that favorite teacher who makes learning fun and impactful. Tune into this episode to hear:What builds authentic relationshipsThe tools Sarah uses to bring participants to her eventsHow to borrow audiences through collaboration to build your networkHow Sarah finds the spaces where her dream clients areHow to move from event participant, to prospect, to saleLearn more about Sarah Noel Block:Tiny MarketingThe Tiny Marketing ShowConnect on LinkedInUpcoming EventsResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Have you ever missed out on an opportunity because you were scared to take the risk?We've all let chances slip by because of fear at one time or another. Maybe you've avoided trying something new or making an investment in your business because you just couldn't be sure it would work out so why take the risk?In the last two episodes, I talked about how investing in your business has the best possible ROI you will ever get, and how to break free of your fears around money. In this episode, let's talk about how to stop letting fear control your decisions, so that you can take smart, calculated risks that will actually move the needle forward in your business.Tune into this episode to hear:What is not an option if you want your business to growThe four steps to taking a thoughtful, calculated riskThe value in investments that seem like a failure or a flopWhat happens when you take calculated risksMentioned:Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike, Phil KnightResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

If you had $20,000 to invest today, would you put it in the stock market or into your own business?One of these options could give you a 47% ROI in 5 years, but the other could give you over 1000% ROI. So which option would you choose?For years, I thought the stock market was the gold standard for building wealth. Until I realized I was sitting on a gold mine of ROI potential: my business. In the previous episode, I talked about the insecurity, scarcity, and fear that a lot of us feel around money and how simply making more money isn't what's going to eliminate that fear. What changes the game is building competence and confidence in your ability to consistently generate money, regardless of the current situation.To gain that confidence, you have to make investments in yourself and your business.In this episode, let's talk about what it really means to invest in yourself and your business..Tune into this episode to hear:How the math works: comparing investing in the stock market and investing in your business How investments in your business compounds in value over timeThe mindset shift you need to make about spending money on your businessThe only “sure thing” investment there really ever isResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Do you worry about money? Are you scared because you don't have enough? Or maybe you have enough right now but you're waiting for the other shoe to drop and wipe out that stability?The majority of the people I talk to have been there or are there. And I've been there too. I've been scared with $40,000 in debt and I've been scared with $40,000 in the bank and clients rolling in. Everybody who works for themselves feels this way at some point and today, I want to talk about why we feel that anxiety and how to free ourselves from that feeling.Tune into this episode to hear:Why your fear can't be solved by having a certain amount of money in the bankThe best way to beat anxiety about your financesThe right way to invest in yourselfWhy I don't subscribe to the belief that having no debt is the goal How I invest in my skills and personal development to benefit my businessResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

How are you going to make this your best year yet?Every year inside No BS Agencies Mastery, I lead a two-day planning workshop for our students. If you want to have your best year yet, it's vital that you envision not only the big picture, but what steps it will take to achieve it.Today, I'm sharing my vision and planning process, from soup to nuts.Tune into this episode to hear:Our approach to identifying “accomplishments” Two exercises to help you get your big dreams onto the pageHow to identify the obstacles and opportunities in your planThe “Freedom Finder” and why this is crucialWhat actually helps you go from your big goal to an action plan Resources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I was recently a guest on Sara Chambers's fabulous podcast, Chicks Who Give a Hoot and I loved our conversation. We chatted a lot about Mastery, her experience in it, and talked about other people's experiences as well. Plus we dug into mindset shifts we've both needed to make to be successful in our businesses and lots more.I wanted to share that conversation here on my feed. I hope you enjoy it and do check out Chicks Who Give a Hoot!Resources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Almost all of us have worked for a crappy boss at some point. And even though you have your own business now, you might still be working for one. Getting away from bad bosses may be one of the reasons you started your own business in the first place. But it is all too easy to end up treating ourselves horribly.So to close out 2024, I want to talk about how to be a great boss to yourself so you can have the freedom and ease you set out to find.Tune into this episode to hear:How old habits and short-term thinking keep us stuck and burned outOne thing we really need from a good boss (and how to give that to ourselves)How to keep yourself accountable even when things aren't going exactly to planHow a great boss deals with mistakesWhy making time for continuous learning and development is related to being a great bossResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Last week, I talked about how to think about planning your year ahead when you've had a wildly successful year.If you're looking back at 2024 and feeling like things fell apart instead of coming together, you are not alone. Those same students I talked about last week who had their best years ever have also had years that felt like a total bust. If things didn't take off quite the way you hoped and you feel like you worked so hard and don't have much to show for it, remember, this is the end of the year, not the end of your story. Where you go from here is up to you.So, let's talk about planning for 2025 if your year wasn't so great.Tune into this episode to hear:How unrealistic goals and timelines trip us upThe thing about hitting every goal Planning for the unexpectedThe difference between being productive and strategic in your workHow to reflect on 2024 and turn it into a plan to bounce backMentioned:Taki MooreResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

It's been a year filled with milestone achievements for No BS Mastery students. And the wins aren't just about bank accounts and booked calendars. It's taking pottery classes in the middle of the day and bucket list trips across the world and teaming up on a project with a legend in your field. It's the freedom and flexibility that comes with owning and trusting the No BS process.So what do you do when you've had your best year yet?If you want to get to the next level, but you don't want to lose the spaciousness that you've found in your life, what do you need to do to achieve those results? Let's talk about how to reflect on a big year so you can move into 2025 set up for success as the kind of business owner you want to be.Tune into this episode to hear:The common trait that successful agency owners shareWhy you need to take time to reflect on the low points of the year, not just the winsHow to find areas of your business that aren't working and are draining your energyHow to evaluate if you're ready to scale sustainablySetting goals and strategizing for the entire upcoming yearResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Katie Koch and Jess Dyroff are No BS Agencies Mastery success stories. They joined the program soon after they started their business, setting the right course that works for them from the start. Katie Koch and Jess Dyroff are the founders of Brightside Creative, where they transform nonprofits and mission driven organizations into unforgettable brands, empowering them to put their mission in motion.Tune into this episode to hear:How Jess and Katie started their businessWhy Jess and Katie joined the No BS program so soon after starting their businessHow the No BS process made them the trusted partner their clients wantHow the No BS model helped Jess and Katie structure their business in a way that works for their business and personal goalsLearn more about Jess Dyroff and Katie Koch:Brightside CreativeInstagram: @brightside.kcFacebook: @BrightsideCreativeKCConnect on LinkedInResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Let's see if this sounds familiar: You say yes to everything. You take any project as they come up and you start them as soon as possible. You have too many clients and you're juggling too much work. You have no work-life balance. And if you're not up to your eyeballs in client work, you're stressing and spinning your wheels about the next thing to cross your door.Burnout is on the horizon.Last week, we talked about setting boundaries with your clients to successfully manage those expectations and relationships.In this episode, we talk about something equally important: the boundaries you set for yourself, in your life and in your business that will actually help you grow.Tune into this episode to hear:What feeds scarcity and tramples your boundariesWhy you have to protect time to work on your business, separate from client workThe kinds of boundaries you have to set for yourself and your businessThe really important thing about small habitsResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Many branding agency owners and creative people find dealing with clients very difficult.In my experience, and after having coached many people through difficult client experiences, I have found that the culprit is almost always lack of clarity around boundaries and expectation management.Things often go off the rails when you can't communicate and maintain clear boundaries with clients. That's when you get urgent after-hours emails. That's when you get scope creep. That's how everyone ends up unhappy, you and your clients.So let's talk about how to have clearer boundaries for yourself and your business and how to communicate those to your clients. Tune into this episode to hear:How do you create boundaries and set expectations with clients How often you need to communicate your process What ensures project efficiencyWhat actually happens when you try to be responsive always and please your clients all the time Why maintaining boundaries around your time makes your clients value it moreResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I've come to realize that so many people struggle to set and hold boundaries because they are afraid of being perceived negatively. Whether it's saying no to a casual invite to a bar when you'd rather not or holding firm to your boundaries in a professional setting, having and communicating clear boundaries can be stressful. But it is absolutely vital to your business for you to develop this skill. So that's what I'm talking about boundaries this month. In this episode, we talk about what boundaries are, why they're so hard to set, and how you can start to practice the art of having them, acknowledging them, and setting them.Tune into this episode to hear:What actually allows clients to push your boundariesWhat helps create more positive experiences for your clientsHow to start identifying areas in your life where you want to have better boundaries and why you don'tUsing low-stakes situations to get more comfortable setting a boundary or saying noResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Eleanor Hancock is a star student inside No BS Agencies Mastery and her transformation over the last couple of years has been absolutely phenomenal to watch. She's an inspiration to me and in the community, and I know you'll get so much out of hearing her story.Eleanor Hancock is the co-founder of Number 75 Design, a creative agency that specializes in creating ‘damn fine brands' and websites for dreamers, rebels, corporate escapees and change-makers. Eleanor's “75% Rule” encourages action over perfection, helping entrepreneurs discover their hidden potential and take meaningful strides towards their goals.As a self-proclaimed timid trailblazer and respectful rule-breaker, Eleanor has mastered the art of turning imposter syndrome into a source of strength and she's all about empowering small businesses to make big waves in their industries.Tune into this episode to hear:The state of Eleanor's business after COVID and before joining the No BS Mastery Why Eleanor was initially hesitant to join the No BS MasteryWhat Eleanor has discovered is the most valuable piece in any client projectHow Eleanor and her husband deepened the relationships within the community and their clientsHow the Mastery program has also been a catalyst for Eleanor to overcome impostor syndromeLearn more about Eleanor Hancock:Number 75 DesignInstagram: @number75designThe Dilemma of the Timid TrailblazerResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

If you could just make the right social media posts, if you could just make your offer better, if you could just find the people who would pay the high prices, would that make you successful? What does it really take to be successful as a one to two person branding agency?Success is about the whole picture: the business you want, the money you want to make and the lifestyle that you want. It's about experiencing life the way you want to experience it.This month we're talking all about hard truths that most business coaches are not going to tell you. In this episode, I give you the hard truths about what it takes to be successful. Tune into this episode to hear:What is more important than consistency of salesThe non-negotiable action you must get comfortable with if you want to be successful The importance of setting and holding clear boundaries with clientsBecoming the kind of person who owns the business you wantResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Money. A topic that makes so many people so uncomfortable.We all have money stories that can negatively impact us. God knows I have spent a lot of time working through those to have a healthier money story and a healthier relationship with money. So many creatives don't like talking or even thinking about money. But it is such an important and powerful aspect of your business. If you don't have a handle on the truth about money and numbers and how it impacts your business and everything else in your life, it can keep you playing really small.In this episode, I share five hard truths about money that most business coaches won't tell you.Tune into this episode to hear:The truth about chasing consistent month-to-month incomeWhen access to capital is more important than profitThe truth that some of your investments in your business will inevitably fail, and what to do when it happensWhy you might not be getting paid what your work is worthA bonus truth about revenue and profitResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

It seems like everyone wants to be an entrepreneur these days. Start your own business! Be your own boss! It might look glamorous from the outside, but small business owners know, the truth isn't all that.This month, we're talking about hard truths most business coaches won't tell you. And today, I'm going to lay down some hard truths about what it really means to be an entrepreneur.Tune into this episode to hear:Why being an entrepreneur isn't for everybody — and that's okay!The truth about growth, momentum, and restWhat is inevitable if you go into business for yourselfThe thing about giving yourself validation for your workResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Apparently, I have developed something of a reputation for telling it like it is. Students and my friends know that they can expect me to give to them straight.Sometimes that might come across a little harsh, and it's not everyone's cup of tea, but I think there's value in giving (and getting) no BS answers. I'll be honest about what you can expect, what I think you're doing right, and where I think you need to pivot. And it's up to you to take that and make your own decisions about how it applies to you and your business.This month, I'm going to share some of the biggest hard truths that one-to-two person branding agencies need to learn. Once you accept them, it will unburden you from so many challenges and you'll be able to move forward with more ease.Today, I'm starting with five hard truths that most business coaches won't tell you about marketing.Tune into this episode to hear:What every killer offers needsThe truth about what “free” marketing costsThe thing you need to have before spending any money on adsWhy you do not need to chase trends trying to go viral on social mediaResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I'm excited to share my conversation with a No BS Mastery star student. Caitlin Lang has been an absolute delight to have in our community and it's been awesome to watch her take action and transform her business.Today, she shares her journey from the dot com boom to working as a freelance brand designer, to embracing the No BS way after years of struggling with the default way of running a branding agency.As the founder of Liquid Form Design and hype woman for other female entrepreneurs, Caitlin Lang crafts captivating brands and websites that give her clients the confidence to blast through their business goals.Tune into this episode to hear:Why the intensives model was immediately appealing to CaitlinThe mindset shift that made a major difference in Caitlin's client relationshipsHow committing to a niche has made getting referrals and doing outreach far easier and more fruitfulHow Caitlin is learning to give herself more space and freedom in her scheduleWhat surprised Caitlin about the community aspect of joining the No BS programLearn more about Caitlin Lang:Liquid Form DesignConnect on LinkedInResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Following up can not only cost you a lot of time in trying to craft a thoughtful email that will hopefully get a response, it can be emotionally draining and frustrating too. Especially when you need or want the work, it feels like there's a lot on the line.This month, we're talking about the default way that things are done in our industry and The No BS Way. In this episode, I talk about what the default way gets wrong about trying to get a response from prospective clients and what we do instead.Tune into this episode to hear:Why a good followup email strips away the BS and gets to the pointWhat to send if you still haven't gotten a response and you need to close the loopMentioned: Dean JacksonTaki MooreResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

How do you schedule your day? Do you plan your week out? Do you know what you're working on every single day?  Or are you in reactive mode and constantly playing a guessing game for when you'll hit project milestones?Been there, done that, and trust me, there is a better way.This month, we're talking about the default way that most agencies run their businesses and how the No BS Way can be much more efficient and effective, bringing you the freedom and ease you wanted out of starting your own business.In this episode, I talk about something that has an immediate impact on how you spend your days: Scheduling.Tune into this episode to hear:How intensives simplify your calendar and make scheduling projects a snapHow scheduling “in chunks” gives you time to build your business and live your lifeWhy the default way of juggling multiple projects at once is creatively and practically inefficientResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

A lot of small agency owners learned how to structure and run their businesses from the agencies they've worked at in the past.But what if everyone's doing it in an inefficient, ineffective way? That's the conclusion I came to when we found ourselves deep in debt after following the default way things were done. Now after over a decade of doing it the No BS way and teaching that method to hundreds of people, we've developed our own way of doing almost everything, and it's far from the default of proposals and pitch decks.This month, I'm talking about some common things that we all have to do as agency owners, and the very different way that we do it inside No BS.In this episode, I talk about the difference between the traditional retainers model and the No BS way of doing retainers.Tune into this episode to hear:How traditional retainers give small agency owners a false sense of financial securityWhy retainers are so prone to creating burnout for agency ownersThree rules for handling retainers the No BS wayResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

I am a long-time user and proponent of Squarespace for client projects and we've used them exclusively for over a decade.In this episode, I chat with Jeremy Schwartz, Squarespace's Director of Channel Partner Business, about what makes Squarespace such a powerful tool for creatives and designers and how it can help you build your business.Jeremy Schwartz is a business leader and Squarespace veteran who conceived, launched, and now manages their channel partner business. When he's not helping creative professionals build sustainable businesses, Jeremy spends his time practicing hot yoga, coparenting his three kids, and getting the most out of living in Brooklyn.Tune into this episode to hear:Why there will always be a market for professional creatives on SquarespaceHow Squarespace helps small businesses create streamlined processes for sustainable successHow the Circle community forums have grown to encompass much more than technical questionsRegister for Circle Day 2024:Squarespace Circle Day 2024: http://circleday.squarespace.com/nobs

Today, I'm excited to share a conversation with someone who has been on an absolute rocket ship ride inside No BS Agencies Mastery.Kris Byers has transformed his business and achieved phenomenal results and become a real leader and inspiration in our community.So I wanted to talk to him about what exactly he did, how his process changed, and how he's successfully applying the No BS philosophy to even larger clients with big projects.Kris Byers is the owner and designer of Horrible Brands, where they use design, strategy, and technology to remove all the horrible things that are holding business owners back, helping them achieve their potential and create a legacy of positivity and progress.Tune into this episode to hear:What led Kris to feeling burned out and frustratedHow he built the confidence to trust his business and his pipelineHow an efficient process and transparent pricing is allowing Kris to land clients even huge agencies wantHow Kris applies the No BS principles to large jobs with multiple stakeholdersHow Kris rebranded his own business and developed his niche based on personality and mindsetLearn more about Kris Byers:Horrible BrandsConnect on LinkedInResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

All this month, I'm talking about some of the most common and frequent mistakes I see people make in their one-to-two person branding agencies. Today, I want to talk about choosing a niche.Yes, you need a niche and I love helping businesses find theirs, but it's not as straightforward as it sounds. Niching is about more than just picking an industry you want to work with.In this episode, I talk through three big mistakes I see people doing both inside our program and out in the world when it comes to niching.Tune into this episode to hear:What is important to have before you commit to a nicheHow the size of the businesses you work with impacts your projects and why it mattersHow niching early and building your authority helps you go broad laterResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

This month, I'm digging into some of the mistakes I see one-to-two person branding agencies make over and over again. And today, I want to talk about pricing. Pricing your services is an art and it's something people struggle with all the time inside the No BS Mastery program and out in the world. It also happens to be one of my favorite things to help people reconsider and fix so that they can build successful, sustainable businesses full of the flexibility and freedom they desire.Tune into this episode to hear:Why you should never base your pricing on what you think someone can pay–even if they gave you a budget numberWhy looking to the market to set your rates is a lost causeWhy you need to be flexible on your pricing when you're starting out and/or need cash and clientsResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

When you spend a lot of time working with one market, you start to notice patterns.I've worked with hundreds of one-to-two person branding agencies over the last few years, and I see people make the same mistakes over and over again. No matter how we address it in our curriculum, or how many times I talk about it, there are certain things that people in our industry gravitate towards doing that aren't doing them any favors.This month, I want to dig into some of the mistakes I see people make all the time, in our program and out in the world, that I think you should avoid at all costs.Today, we're going to talk about three things you absolutely should not do when selling.Tune into this episode to hear:Why you should never send an email pitch for your servicesHow a Fit-Call eliminates being salesy and puts you in controlWhy you shouldn't talk about services before they've answered all of your questionsResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Today, I'm sharing a conversation with one of my star students-turned coaches, Erika Stanley. Erika has truly mastered the No BS model. She's done an amazing job finding more freedom, space, and enjoyment in her life in a way that I know so many entrepreneurs wish they could. She's also become a highly-valued and much-loved member of our No BS community.In this conversation, she shares her story of going from agency employee to No BS owner.Erika Stanley is the Founder, CEO, and AI Evangelist at Mile End Digital, and she's on a mission to help small business owners lead with their values and make a difference in the world. With almost 20 years in the industry and now in her fourth year of business, Erika blends heartfelt storytelling with cutting-edge technology to create a digital presence that's both genuine and competitive.  Erika's mantra: Live your truth, make a difference, and dive into every adventure life throws your way.Tune into this episode to hear:The agency habits and processes Erika had to unlearn when she struck out on her ownHow Erika realized she needed help leading clients confidently through projectsWhat helped dramatically improve Erika's efficiency and helped level up her creativityWhat money mindset shifts Erika needed to make going from an agency salary to agency ownerHow the No BS model has brought Erika financial and time freedom and flexibilityLearn more about Erika Stanley:Mile End DigitalGet on the waitlist for Botify Your BrandInstagram: @mileenddigitalConnect on LinkedInResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

“If you can make $30,000 or more in just a few days of branding work with Worst of All Design, why would you ever start a training program?”This month, I'm talking about my why. Why I do what I do, what motivates me, and what has made me the business owner I am today. And today, I'm going to answer one of my most frequently asked questions. Why start No BS Agencies Mastery? It's a fair question and I'm going to share how I got from successfully running my own agency, to sharing our method, and how it all ties back to creating meaningful impact in the lives of others.Tune into this episode to hear:My slow realization that teaching the No BS model could be my unique way of creating positive impact for othersWhy it matters to me that the No BS program impacts more than just students' bottom linesHow running a business helping small agency owners helps me invest in other causes I care deeply aboutResources:Black Belt with Taki MooreKivaNo BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

Sometimes people ask me, “If you're so successful in your agency, why are you doing this training program?”To really answer that, we'll have to rewind a bit, to my introduction to the concepts of microlending and social entrepreneurship, and how they taught me that seemingly small actions could have major positive impacts.Continuing this month's series on connecting with your “why” and getting clear on your motivations, today I'm going to share how my mission to create meaningful impact has shown up in my life and work over the years.Tune into this episode to hear:How I was introduced to and got invested in social entrepreneurshipHow I realized that the nonprofit world wasn't for me, but I still wanted to have an impactWhy I found it's key to play to my strengths and what I love doing in service of my greater missionResources:Creating a World Without Poverty: Social Business and the Future of Capitalism, Muhammad YunusBanker to the Poor: Micro-Lending and the Battle Against World Poverty, Muhammad YunusNo BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

There's a daily journaling exercise that I suggest to everyone who joins No BS Agencies Mastery. There are four questions in the exercise, and it takes as little as five minutes to complete, but one question in particular is critical for success: Why are you doing this?There is no right or wrong answer, and your response might change every day. There are a lot of reasons to build a business. But the key is connecting with your motivations.This month, I'm going to talk about the big “why” and how it's so powerful for keeping you going through the tough times. I'll be sharing my own personal and professional journey getting clear on why I'm doing what I do.Tune into this episode to hear:How connecting with your why every day helps you through the ups and downs of starting and running a businessHow I realized that some of my best, most satisfying work has been as a facilitator Why I'm so passionate about helping others find their confidenceResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

You need a niche. You've probably heard it a million times. But what does honing and owning your niche look like in practice?Today, I've invited one of my longtime star students turned No BS Program coach, Andrea Merrill, to share her story of how she went from drowning in low-paying client work to consistently closing the high-ticket clients of her dreams by getting clear on her niche.Andrea Merrill is the founder of Virtually Adventurous. She helps scatterbrained speakers become go-to experts while making a ton of money. Andrea's clients have generated over 80 million in sales to date and she's helped them discover new opportunities that they never thought possible and make a greater impact beyond the stage. Tune into this episode to hear:Why working within a niche is the opposite of boring and boxed-inHow getting clear on her mission and values helped Andrea define her nicheWhy you need to validate your niche before you go all inThe biggest mindset shift Andrea had to make to step into her confidence in her businessHow Andrea overcame her fears and struggles with doing outreach, and the advice she gives to students todayLearn more about Andrea Merrill:Virtually AdventurousInstagram: @virtuallyadventurousConnect on LinkedInResources:Choose Wonder Over Worry: Move Beyond Fear and Doubt to Unlock Your Full Potential, Amber RaeBreaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One, Joe DispenzaNo BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

 Does your business ever stress you out?  Silly question, right? Of course it does! Being a business owner can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. The responsibility can be heavy and when things aren't going well, it can feel like your entire world is imploding. I know I'm not the only one who's been brought to tears with stress and frustration and worry in the course of running a business. So what's the opposite of crying at the kitchen table?Peace. Ease. Even if you haven't quite articulated it, that's really what we're all hoping for. We want to feel at ease in our businesses, no matter what's going on at any particular moment.And achieving that sense of ease is what I want to talk about today, because it's one of the most crucial mindset shifts you can make.Tune into this episode to hear:Three key elements of creating ease in your businessWhy your habitual feelings of stress and overwhelm might be lying to youWhy you need to make actionable habits out of your plans and goalsHow to break out of the employee mindset and think about revenue annually, not month to monthWhy true ease has nothing to do with what's in your bank accountResources:The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level, Gay HendricksNo BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com

When you decided to hang your own shingle and be your own boss, did you imagine that you'd finally have the kind of freedom and flexibility that you never did as an employee?But how much freedom do you actually feel? Are you tied to your business at all hours, constantly answering emails, afraid to leave your phone or laptop for even a day? If that's you, you are not alone. It's a phase of business that everyone goes through, and the only way out is through clear, intentional action to change the way you do business.Today, I want to talk about three mindset shifts you have to make if you want to stop being constantly tethered to your business and start having the freedom you're looking for.Tune into this episode to hear:How  to build real freedom into your scheduleWhy freedom is a mindset as much as it is time in your scheduleThe relationship between profitability and freedomResources:No BS Agencies MasteryThe Price to Freedom Calculator™No BS LaunchpadNo BS Agency Owners Free Facebook GroupStart reading the first chapter of my bookPiasilva.com