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From Federal Warden to Leadership Consultant: Darlene Drew on Building Your Practice, Pricing Mistakes, and Running a Business Through Grief (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 153) Do you want to know how to build a professional services business when you have deep expertise but no client base? Darlene Drew shares exactly how she did […]
If you're just getting started with your education consulting business—or if you've been dabbling and you're ready to finally treat it like a real business—this episode is for you.Jenn breaks down the four foundational steps every new consultant should take to set up their business the right way—from legal and financial logistics to market research and framework development. Plus, she shares the essential mindset shift every educator must make when stepping into entrepreneurship.You'll learn how to think like a business owner, how to handle the “no-response” moments that come with outreach, and why playing the long game is the real secret to building predictable, six-figure success.LinksFree Masterclass - 4-Step Framework to Build and Sell Profitable PDConcept to Cashflow Mini-CourseInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenn_kleiberLinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/jennkleiber
Wie verändert KI das Consulting-Business wirklich? In dieser Folge von AI or DIE sprechen Andreas Wiener, Richard Ranftl und Stefan Aichbauer (Managing Partner bei H&Z) über die Transformation einer gesamten Branche. Es geht um Führung, Veränderung und Menschlichkeit – warum Juniors nicht mehr automatisch die Zukunft der Beratung sind, wieso „People“ das wichtigste Asset bleibt und weshalb KI nicht nur Prozesse beschleunigt, sondern Beratungsqualität neu definiert. Eine ehrliche Diskussion über Angst, Chancen und Verantwortung im Zeitalter der künstlichen Intelligenz. Jetzt reinhören, wenn du wissen willst, wie echte AI-Transformation in einer Top-Beratung aussieht.
With Q4 here and 2026 planning underway, I'm re-sharing one of my favourite episodes on creating your roadmap to seven figures. If you're joining my workshop next week on the $100K offer, this episode shows you how that offer fits into your bigger revenue strategy. Today I'm talking about what happens when we shift from the "what" to the "how" with getting your consulting business to seven figures and maybe even eight figures. I'll talk all about how to accomplish the milestones you set for your business and how to create the action plan to get there. Tune in to this episode to learn more! In this episode: [01:30] Think about what you want the destination to be for your business. [05:00] Unpacking and peeling back the layers of your dream. [10:00] Actually doing the "how" using motivation and mindset. [14:00] More on my business audit package and how I'll help you make a plan of action. Key Takeaways: Setting micro goals and milestones along the journey of your business can be a great way to help you eventually achieve your destination. The "what" can be easy to identify, but it's the "how" that generally is harder to accomplish. Finding motivation and changing your mindset can help to accomplish your goals. Quotes: "I always want my clients to have a revenue goal in mind, but it's more important to me that we turn that goal into a sheet of micro goals or milestones." Jessica Fearnley "One thing I have really learned in recent years is that we need the "what" to be expansive and to be able to expand to its true dimensions before we even make a start on the "how"." Jessica Fearnley Useful Links: Get in touch with Jessica to discuss your consulting business Jessica's LinkedIn
Most independent consultants think their business bottlenecks come from systems, tools, or strategy.But the real bottleneck is often you, and specifically, how you respond to resistance.In this episode, you'll learn why resistance shows up, how it slows your growth, and a simple plan to move through it so you can scale faster and with less friction.Whether it's overthinking a new offer, delaying a move into advisory work, or hesitating to raise your pricing, that internal friction isn't a fixed limitation or missing trait. It's a signal that you're ready to move beyond your current comfort zone.Melisa shares a practical framework for noticing, normalizing, and navigating resistance so it doesn't sabotage your results.If you want to stop getting in your own way and start taking clean, strategic action, this episode gives you the tools to do it.What you will learn in this episode:[03:12] Why you, not your systems, are likely the bottleneck in your consulting business[07:40] How resistance shows up and what it looks like day to day[15:26] The two root causes of resistance and how to identify them in your thinking[20:41] Five methods to work with resistance, not against it[32:15] How to implement a resistance plan so you can stop circling and start progressingTune in to Episode 243 for tangible coaching tools to help you shift from bottleneck to business accelerator.Mentioned Resources1) Companion Resource: The Consultant Mindset Audit2) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-243/3) Melisa's Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisaliberman4) Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 237 - Make the Most of Your Business Owner Thinking Time 5) Mentioned in this Episode: Podcast - Huberman LabWant help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
On this episode of the Becoming a Sleep Consultant Podcast, I am joined by Samantha Fine, a digital marketing pro who left corporate to help women grow their businesses with simple ads and funnels. We talk about how funnels work, when ads make sense, and how to keep your strategy focused if you are new to business or on a small budget.Whether you are just getting started or looking to take your sleep consulting business to the next level, this conversation will give you clarity on where to place your focus so you can grow with confidence.Tune in to learn:• What a funnel actually looks like in your business• When it is the right time to consider paid ads• How refining your communication strategy leads to attracting ideal clients• What mindset supports real business growthLinks:Website: https://www.samanthafinedigital.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthafinedigitalFree training: https://www.samanthafinedigital.com/ad-success-system-workshop-933739If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Sleep Consultant, please join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultantCPSM website: https://thecpsm.com/Book a free discovery call to learn how you can become a Certified Sleep Consultant here: https://jaynehavens.as.me/CPSM-Inquiry
Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
Hey Friend, Welcome to the “Start That Business” podcast, where I help Christian moms working a corporate job launch their first coaching or consulting business from scratch without quitting their jobs yet. Are you struggling to get clients even after building a beautiful website? You're not alone. In this episode, I share why your website should never be built in isolation and the three-part marketing system every coaching and consulting business needs to attract clients, build trust, and close sales. You'll learn: How to capture attention with the right strategies Nurture relationships through value-driven touchpoints, and Confidently close with systems that make it easy for clients to say yes. Whether you're just starting out or ready to refine your process, this framework will help you design a marketing system that actually works. I pray this blesses you. . .
One year ago, Danielle Greene made the leap from teacher and social-emotional learning specialist to full-time pediatric sleep consultant.When she first joined me on the Becoming a Sleep Consultant podcast, we talked about her transition into this work. Now Danielle is back to share what life and business look like after a full year of running her practice full time, and how she's re-discovered her “why” along the way.In this episode, Danielle opens up about:• The biggest lessons she's learned in her first year of working her business full time• How reconnecting with her original purpose has shaped her business• The habits and mindset shifts that helped her stay grounded while growingIf you're thinking about taking your own leap into full-time consulting, or you just need a reminder that anything is possible when you commit to your own success, this conversation will inspire you.Links:Website: https://www.dgsleepconsulting.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dgsleepconsulting/If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Sleep Consultant, please join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultantCPSM website: https://thecpsm.com/Book a free discovery call to learn how you can become a Certified Sleep Consultant here: https://jaynehavens.as.me/CPSM-Inquiry
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! What if you could be a fly on the wall to get the real scoop on starting a consulting business?Before you take the leap, there are 7 key questions you need to ask yourself first (and most people never discuss them). In this episode, I'm giving you the inside scoop and answering the questions I'm asked most often as a coach for some of the most brilliant entrepreneurial consultants. If you've been wondering whether consulting is right for you, what you really need to get started, and if you can start before leaving your job, this episode is for you.***********Interested in learning How to Sell What You Know? Download your free guide here.Connect with me at Dr. Angelina Davis on Instagram or LinkedIn, and visit excelconsulting.com for resources to support your journey. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. I would love for you to join our community of ambitious consultants breaking glass ceilings!
Want to Start or Grow a Successful Business? Schedule a FREE 13-Point Assessment with Clay Clark Today At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com Join Clay Clark's Thrivetime Show Business Workshop!!! Learn Branding, Marketing, SEO, Sales, Workflow Design, Accounting & More. **Request Tickets & See Testimonials At: www.ThrivetimeShow.com **Request Tickets Via Text At (918) 851-0102 See the Thousands of Success Stories and Millionaires That Clay Clark Has Helped to Produce HERE: https://www.thrivetimeshow.com/testimonials/ Download A Millionaire's Guide to Become Sustainably Rich: A Step-by-Step Guide to Become a Successful Money-Generating and Time-Freedom Creating Business HERE: www.ThrivetimeShow.com/Millionaire See Thousands of Case Studies Today HERE: www.thrivetimeshow.com/does-it-work/
In this short and impactful episode, Jayne shares a powerful lesson she recently learned from watching the Netflix series Selling Manhattan. Drawing inspiration from real estate mogul Ryan Serhant, Jayne emphasizes the importance of committing to excellence in your work rather than solely focusing on marketing. Whether you're a brand new sleep consultant or considering entering the field, this episode will hopefully inspire you to commit to greatness, because that's when your business will really take off. Key Takeaways:Focus on Excellence: Learn why prioritizing greatness in your work will naturally lead to success and recognition.Success Without Flashy Marketing: Discover how two former teachers successfully transitioned to full-time sleep consulting by mastering their craft rather than relying on extensive marketing efforts.The Power of Continual Learning: Understand the importance of ongoing education and improvement in becoming the best at what you do.Links:If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Sleep Consultant, please join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultantCPSM website: https://thecpsm.com/Book a free discovery call to learn how you can become a Certified Sleep Consultant here: https://jaynehavens.as.me/CPSM-Inquiry
We're launching a new Life on Mars series: How to Build an Agency, a practical, transparent guide for freelancers, micro-agencies, and growing studios. We'll cover everything from picking a name and services, getting your first client, contracts and NDAs, and building a portfolio, to harder topics like crisis management, pricing, hiring and firing, founder dynamics, and keeping long-tenured teams motivated. Episodes will mix solo deep dives, voices from the MarsBased team, expert guests, and community Q&A, slotted between our regular interviews. You'll also see more in-person recordings from our Barcelona studio (while we keep remote interviews for global guests). Inspired by friends in the industry (Infinite Red, Thoughtbot, Pivotal Labs, Mobile Jazz, Codegram), this series distills 10+ years of agency lessons into actionable episodes you can apply the same day.Send us your questions in the comments or via our social channels, and we'll include them in upcoming Q&A episodes.Support the show
Government Contracting 101: https://www.govclose.comGet Free Weekly Government Contracting Business Tips: https://federalytics.substack.comGovClose Certification Overview: https://www.govclose.com/govclose-certification-programIn this video, you'll learn the 10 biggest reasons to start your own consulting business, how to package your skills into a service people will pay for, and why AI is your ultimate growth partner.You'll discover: - The independence & financial upside of consulting- How to start part-time (without quitting your job)- Why AI amplifies your value instead of replacing you- How to work from anywhere in the world - The hidden opportunities (equity deals, partnerships, advisory roles) that consulting unlocksAnd stick around until Reason #10, where I reveal how consulting doesn't just create income — it can completely redefine your lifestyle, freedom, and future.Watch: Why Federal Employees Should Start a Consulting Businesshttps://youtu.be/Q34m1Qh3U_w?si=OBSx7ECSYbe2ROvVConnect with Rick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/govclose/#Consulting #AIGrowth #ScaleWithAI
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! Have you ever wondered what your expertise is truly worth? The answer might surprise you.This episode explores seven eye-opening insights into why now is the perfect time to turn your knowledge into a thriving consulting business—whether as a side hustle earning an additional $50,000 or as a path to financial independence.Traditionally, the industry operated on unwritten rules that excluded diverse voices. But the digital revolution has transformed everything, opening up unprecedented opportunities for women of color to build wealth on their own terms without waiting for gatekeepers' permission.Whether you're dealing with student debt from degrees you haven't fully leveraged or tired of building someone else's business, this episode offers a fresh perspective on consulting as a way to build wealth. Ready to recognize the gold mine you're sitting on? Click the link to download the free guide How to Sell What You Know, and join the community that's rewriting the rules of success in consulting. ***********Connect with me at Dr. Angelina Davis on Instagram or LinkedIn, and visit excelconsulting.com for resources to support your journey. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. I would love for you to join our community of ambitious consultants breaking glass ceilings!
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! Tired of waiting for your consulting business to take off? The frustrating reality is that consulting success has traditionally hinged on access to decision-makers, something that can take years or even decades to build through conventional networking and referrals.But what if there's a more direct path to reaching those who can actually hire you? In this eye-opening episode, I tackle the uncomfortable truth about consulting: those with privileged access tend to succeed faster while others struggle to get noticed despite their exceptional expertise.For women and especially women of color, the consulting landscape presents additional challenges. Rather than accepting these limitations, I show you how to build your own authority platform that attracts clients directly to you. The consulting game has changed, and this episode gives you the playbook to win on your own terms.Ready to transform how you attract consulting clients? Connect with me at Dr. Angelina Davis on Instagram or LinkedIn, and visit excelconsulting.com for resources to support your journey. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. I would love for you to join our community of ambitious consultants breaking glass ceilings!
In this week’s Throwback Thursday segment, hear how one side hustler launched an app that didn’t take off, but ended up turning that hard-won experience into a consulting service for other early-stage founders. Side Hustle School features a new episode EVERY DAY, featuring detailed case studies of people who earn extra money without quitting their job. This year, the show includes free guided lessons and listener Q&A several days each week. Show notes: SideHustleSchool.com Email: team@sidehustleschool.com Be on the show: SideHustleSchool.com/questions Connect on Instagram: @193countries Visit Chris's main site: ChrisGuillebeau.com Read A Year of Mental Health: yearofmentalhealth.com If you're enjoying the show, please pass it along! It's free and has been published every single day since January 1, 2017. We're also very grateful for your five-star ratings—it shows that people are listening and looking forward to new episodes.
If you want to run a consulting business that feels lighter and more in your control, you need to start thinking like a million-dollar business owner, before your business is anywhere near that level.This is part two of my series on the Million Dollar Mindset. In part one (Episode 231), we covered the first two pillars of the million dollar consultant's mindset. Today, we finish the two-part series with the remaining four ways of thinking that separate a $200K consultant from one who can confidently generate and sustain a $1M consulting business.These aren't abstract concepts. You'll hear how to approach demand creation, pricing, IP development, and resilience in a way that keeps you utilized with fulfilling work, your fees aligned to value, and your confidence intact, even when the business throws you curveballs.What you will learn in this episode:[12:15] Demand ownership – taking full responsibility for lead flow instead of waiting.[18:44] Value-centric pricing – anchoring fees to the client's outcomes, not your hours.[24:58] Asset thinking – turning your expertise into repeatable frameworks, tools, and systems that build leverage.[29:45] Growth resilience – moving forward despite fear, rejection, or uncertainty.By the end, you'll know exactly which of the six pillars (from Episodes 231 and 232) needs your attention next, and how to start shifting into a million-dollar mindset today.Tune in to Episode 232 to hear the final four (of six) pillars of the $1M Independent Consultant Mindset and learn how to leverage this mindset to accelerate your consulting revenue growth and hit your business goals.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-232/Join the waitlist for Melisa's Business Brain Journal, https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Related Podcast Episode: Episode 231 – The Million Dollar Mindset for Independent Consultants (Part 1), https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-231/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! Colleen Reed, founder of American College Consulting, shares her journey from high school teacher to successful college consultant specializing in helping Canadian students attend American universities. Her thriving family business now includes her husband, daughter, and several specialized consultants who collectively serve students across Canada.• Inspired to become a college consultant after her own positive experience with an independent consultant in high school• Started her business in 2008 when her daughter was in eighth grade• Built her practice exclusively through word of mouth referrals• Transformed her business into a family affair with her husband handling athletes and business operations• Daughter serves as the "secret weapon" for essay writing and activities lists• Focuses on developing strong personal connections during consultations• Believes students must participate in consultations and "buy in" to the process• Uses CollegePlannerPro and FreshBooks to streamline business operations• Manages a large caseload by outsourcing tasks she finds tedious• Finds ongoing professional development and college tours essential for staying current• Maintains a network of fellow consultants through HECA and regional groups• Advocates for Americans to consider affordable, high-quality Canadian universities• Currently navigating challenges related to political uncertainty and visa concerns"The highlight of my life is when a student says 'thank you so much, I never would have heard of this school and it has been amazing.' That, to me, is the best."
If you've been stuck at the same revenue level in your consulting business, whether that's $200K or $500K, it's probably not your sales skills or your pipeline holding you back. It's your mindset.Too many independent consultants unknowingly run their business from the same thinking that created their current or even past results. That mindset is misaligned with their goals and quietly caps their revenue.In this first of a two-part series, Melisa breaks down the real difference between a $200K consultant mindset and a million-dollar consultant mindset, and exactly how you can start making the mindset shift today. You'll learn practical strategies to grow consulting business revenue by operating like the business owner you want to become, no matter your current revenue.You'll discover two of the six pillars that define a million-dollar mindset and how to apply them immediately so you can stop plateauing and start creating the business you know you're capable of:[04:24] Why "realistic goals" limit your growth and what to focus on instead[11:35] What a million-dollar mindset actually is (hint: it's not about hustle)[19:42] The first mindset pillar: Business Owner Identity[33:01] The second mindset pillar: Strategic Discipline[45:17] How to apply these shifts now, even if you're not aiming for $1MListen to Episode 231 to learn the tangible mindset shifts that will help you grow your consulting revenue from $200K to $1M and beyond.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-231/Join the waitlist for Melisa's Business Brain Journal, https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Related Podcast Episode: Episode 132 – The Path To $1M For The Independent Consultant, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-132/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! Ever wondered why some consultants command premium rates while others struggle to prove their worth? The answer lies not in credentials alone, but in alignment – finding the perfect intersection between your natural strengths and what the market truly values.This episode dives into the journey from undervalued service provider to sought-after expert. We explore how many consultants start with a "messy" phase of taking whatever work they can find, and why this approach rarely positions you to communicate your true value effectively. The pivotal shift happens when you transition from accepting random projects to building a business centered around your unique expertise.*********Ready to identify the gaps preventing your genius from being recognized? Click here to take the quiz to discover your next steps toward unshakeable credibility that generates consistent demand without the hustle.Interested in learning more about the Strategic Authority Framework? Visit https://excelatconsulting.com/authoritydesigned/Let's Connect!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drangelinadavis/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drangelinadavis/
This week on the Becoming a Sleep Consultant podcast, I'm joined by my friend and colleague, Kerri Nachlas. Kerri is the founder of the Parent Coach Certification Course, and someone I admire deeply for the thoughtful, ethical way she approaches her work, as both a parent coach and a sleep consultant.We're diving into an important and timely conversation about artificial intelligence, AI, and how it's beginning to show up in the world of sleep consulting and parent coaching. While these tools can be helpful, there's a real risk of losing the human connection that makes our work so impactful.Kerri and I discussed:• Smart ways to use AI to support your workflow• Where over-reliance on AI can hold you back as a coach or consultant• And whether our field is truly “AI-proof” or notWhether you're already using AI in your business or just starting to explore it, this conversation will help you think critically about what to embrace, what to avoid, and how to stay grounded in your own voice.If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Sleep Consultant, please join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultantCPSM website: https://thecpsm.com/Book a free discovery call to learn how you can become a Certified Sleep Consultant here: https://jaynehavens.as.me/CPSM-Inquiry
Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Click here! Margaret Baudinet shares her journey from college consultant to CEO of College Solutions, balancing business growth while raising quintuplets and building a thriving consulting practice with specialized services and a team of seven counselors. Margaret shares her journey:• Purchasing College Solutions from founder Larry Dannenberg in July 2020 during the pandemic• Transitioning from a small team to a comprehensive organization with leadership roles and specialized services• Managing the surprise of quintuplets born in 2016 while maintaining her consulting career• Developing grade-specific packages for underclassmen to provide flexibility and improve cash flow• Raising prices while effectively communicating value to clients• Building strong referral networks with financial planners as primary sources• Using Boomerang email software to manage inbox and improve productivity• Creating targeted growth strategies focused on specific markets rather than general expansion• Embracing the concept of work-life "seasons" rather than perfect balance• Hiring team members who complement your weaknesses and leverage tools like ChatGPT for processeshttps://www.collegesolutions.com/Thank you for listening to this episode of the Business of College Consulting. If you enjoyed it, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify or share it with a friend in the college consulting industry!
Are You Hitting a Revenue Plateau in Your Independent Consulting Business?You might be stuck in a revenue plateau right now.Maybe it's obvious. Your consulting revenue has been flat year over year.Or maybe it's hidden. Your numbers might be technically going up, but you could still be hitting a plateau you didn't even realize existed. Either way, this episode is for you.I'm breaking down the five hidden causes of revenue plateaus for independent consultants and the exact mindset and business shifts required to break through them.This isn't about working more hours or trying to figure it out on your own.It's about pinpointing where you're unconsciously capping your growth. In your beliefs. In your pricing. In your positioning or decision-making. Then shifting beyond the plateau.You'll hear a real story of an independent consultant who hovered at $250K for years until she uncovered the invisible objections that were keeping her stuck.What you will learn in this episode:[09:45] How to recognize a hidden revenue plateau even if your revenue looks stable on paper.[12:30] 5 root causes of consulting plateaus that most consultants miss (especially the ones who seem successful).[21:15] How to expand your ‘possibility thinking' so your brain stops limiting your income.[30:40] A real consultant case study that shows exactly what changed when she shifted her thinking and added $110K in revenue.[35:15] How to stop trading flexibility for money, and start designing a business that delivers both.Tune in to Episode 230 for a strategic breakdown of how to create meaningful revenue growth, without waiting for the market to change or adding more to your plate.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-230/Take The Consultant's Business Health Assessment, https://assessments.melisaliberman.com/consulting-health-assessment Related Podcast Episode: Episode 200 - What's Possible for your Consulting Business, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-200/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
"I started thinking about having a kid as it related to my career long before I even started my business. And actually it was really the impetus to start my business." What do you do when you're self-employed and need to take four months off for maternity leave? If you're Sara Royf, you get ridiculously strategic about it.Most of us panic at the thought of stepping away from our consulting businesses for any extended period. What happens to our clients? Our income? Will anyone remember we exist when we come back? Sara faced all these fears when she got pregnant, and instead of spiraling, she created a plan that actually worked.Well, mostly worked. Because this is Confessions, and we're gonna talk about the stuff that didn't go as expected, too.Sara breaks down exactly how she pre-scheduled four months of content (yes, four months), managed client expectations, and kept her audience warm while she was away. She also gets real about the maternity leave waitlist that converted exactly zero clients and why she'd completely flip her communication strategy if she did it again.But here's what makes this conversation especially valuable—Sara's not just sharing theory. As a LinkedIn coach who teaches consultants how to get clients through authentic relationship-building, she literally practices what she preaches. Her approach to LinkedIn DMs is the opposite of gross sales tactics, and it works so well that clients book discovery calls with her while simultaneously telling her they hate DMs.Plus, she drops a confession that'll surprise anyone who follows her work: she's actually not that fond of LinkedIn. Plot twist, right?Highlights:Stop trying to optimize for everything when planning extended leave. Sara chose creative outlet and audience warmth over maximum revenue, and that clarity shaped every other decision she made.The 30-person waitlist that converted zero people immediately taught her that timing in business is everything. Sometimes your best-laid plans flop, and that's totally okay if you've layered your strategies.Make more noise about coming back than going away. Sara wishes she'd spent less energy announcing her departure and more energy announcing her return—your audience cares about when you're available, not why you're not.LinkedIn DMs work when you treat them like in-person conversations. The "would you say this at a conference?" test transforms how people respond to your outreach and makes it feel authentic instead of sales-y.Even the experts doubt themselves. Sara had to constantly remind herself she'd achieved exactly what she optimized for, proving that mindset challenges hit all of us—and why having good business friends matters.Don't miss the end of the episode to find out how you can connect with Sara and get expert feedback on your LinkedIn profile—completely free.Connect with Sara:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-royf/ Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.comConnect with Cindy:Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.comFractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagmanConnect with Jess:Out In the Boons: outintheboons.meLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutntiheboons/
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! Ever feel like your professional brilliance isn't translating into the consulting success you deserve? You're not alone. The most frustrating reality for many exceptional consultants isn't a lack of expertise—it's watching less qualified competitors land premium contracts while you remain overlooked.For women consultants, especially women of color, these challenges often have systemic roots. But with strategic authority positioning, you can transcend these barriers. Stop being your industry's best-kept secret and become the obvious choice that clients know they need to hire immediately. Your brilliance deserves recognition, and with the right framework, you'll make it impossible to ignore.Tune in now and don't forget to subscribe to Black Girls Consult TOO! on YouTube and Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, to continue this journey toward establishing yourself as the authority in your space. Your expertise isn't the problem. Your invisibility is. Let's change that together!********* Ready to identify the gaps preventing your genius from being recognized? Click here to take the quiz to discover your next steps toward unshakeable credibility that generates consistent demand without the hustle.Interested in learning more about the Strategic Authority Framework? Visit https://excelatconsulting.com/authoritydesigned/Let's Connect!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drangelinadavis/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drangelinadavis/
Karl is a certified Executive Coach, Leadership, Team, and Organization Development Consultant, and international speaker with over 25 years of corporate experience. He holds a PhD in Organizational Psychology and has authored three books: The How and Why: Taking Care of Business with the Enneagram (now in its third edition), Nina and the Really, Really Tough Decision (available in English, Spanish, French, and Greek), and Explicit Expectations: The Essential Guide & Toolkit of Management Fundamentals.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to successfully transition from corporate life to a thriving solopreneur career and the vital role of relationships and community in long-term business growth.R. Karl and I discuss:Why he left a successful corporate career to become a solopreneur [00:02:04]The biggest surprises after leaving employment [00:04:20]How he created structure and flexibility as a solopreneur [00:06:01]The importance of leveraging your network [00:09:48]Work-life integration vs. work-life balance [00:11:00]How social and volunteer activities can lead to business opportunities [00:11:36]When companies seek external consultants and coaches [00:15:04]Trends in leadership development and organizational consulting demand [00:16:48]Practical strategies for successful client engagements [00:18:31]How communities of practice support entrepreneurs [00:19:40]The most important step a corporate refugee can take today [00:21:34]Why you can't do it alone—and the power of asking for help [00:22:11]Learn more about R. Karl at:www.performandfunction.comhttps://linkedin.com/in/rkarlhebenstreitThe How and Why: Taking Care of Business with the Enneagram: https://a.co/d/afDU79rNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, English version: https://a.co/d/jgt0uxrNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, Spanish version: https://a.co/d/fnRvn9oNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, French version: https://a.co/d/068uRvGvNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, Greek version: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?Np4TNouttaDLgprAMd5jNl7hC1DjYrBMeWmJc4jIJYlThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe to receive powerful, easy-to-apply insights from our podcast—empowering your business journey has never been easier.
Get your FREE Cybersecurity Salary Guide: https://www.infosecinstitute.com/form/cybersecurity-salary-guide-podcast/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastJohn Hansman of Truit joins today's Cyber Work episode to share his journey from a "dead-end job" in electronic security to building a thriving managed IT services company. As the co-host of the Business & Bytes podcast, John brings a unique perspective on how small businesses can leverage AI tools to solve fundamental challenges while maintaining strong cybersecurity practices. He shares practical AI tools that business owners are leaving on the table, discusses the mindset shifts required for entrepreneurship, and explains how his company pivoted during the pandemic to emerge stronger than ever.0:00 - Intro to today's episode0:50 - Cybersecurity Salary Guide2:15 - Meet John Hansman4:20 - Early tech experiences and family influence8:45 - The career transition from dead-end job to entrepreneur12:30 - Starting an MSP during the pandemic16:15 - CEO role vs. hands-on technical work20:45 - Business & Bytes podcast format and pivot25:30 - AI tools for small businesses31:20 - John's AI toolbox and custom GPTs36:00 - Career transition stories and mindset challenges42:15 - Getting out of your own head as an entrepreneur47:30 - About Truitt and cybersecurity services50:45 - Wrap up and where to find JohnView Cyber Work Podcast transcripts and additional episodes: https://www.infosecinstitute.com/podcast/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcastAbout InfosecInfosec's mission is to put people at the center of cybersecurity. We help IT and security professionals advance their careers with skills development and certifications while empowering all employees with security awareness and phishing training to stay cyber-safe at work and home. More than 70% of the Fortune 500 have relied on Infosec to develop their security talent, and more than 5 million learners worldwide are more cyber-resilient from Infosec IQ's security awareness training. Learn more at infosecinstitute.com.
You've made it halfway through the year — now what?Too many independent consultants either stay the course out of habit or abandon their goals altogether. In this episode, Melisa walks you through a five-step framework to recalibrate and intentionally design a second half that actually aligns with what you want, not just what you committed to back in January.This isn't just another planning session. It's a reset opportunity: to reassess what's working, reimagine what's possible, and realign your goals and mindset so you don't end the year in burnout or disappointment.Melisa shares real client examples, powerful reflection questions, and practical tools to help you create a second-half plan that's strategic, motivating, and sustainable.Timestamps for Key Moments: [05:00] How to assess your business with precision using 5 core systems and why most consultants guess instead of measure[10:00] Why reimagining your path (not just your goal) is the key to motivation and sustainability[15:00] How to set second-half goals that stretch you and align with your bigger vision[20:00] The importance of operationalizing your plan so business-owner time doesn't get pushed aside[25:00] How to align your mindset with your vision and think like the business owner who already hit the goalTune in to Episode 226 for a grounded, actionable framework to help you finish the year with clarity, confidence, and control.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-226/Read Chapters 4&5 in Melisa's book, Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 200 - What's Possible for your Consulting Business, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-200/ ️Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! Respected in real life, but hearing crickets online? The credibility gap between offline success and online impact is real and can be hard to navigate.This episode unpacks why your hard-earned reputation isn't automatically translating to digital spaces and, more importantly, how to fix that without burning out or starting over. The truth? Your success offline operates in a different world from your online presence. Credentials that opened doors in your career don't carry the same weight in the digital landscape without strategic positioning.Let's transform your online presence and turn your reputation into digital success. Tune in now. Your next opportunity is just a click away!********* Ready to identify the gaps preventing your genius from being recognized? Click here to take the quiz to discover your next steps toward unshakeable credibility that generates consistent demand without the hustle.
Why do 80% of consulting businesses fail within five years — even when the consultant is brilliant? In this episode, we unpack the brutal truths behind short-lived firms and reveal 9 critical principles every consultant must master to build a sustainable business. From pricing for outcomes to systematising client acquisition, you'll learn how to think like a CEO, not a freelancer. Whether you're new or experienced, this is essential listening for any transformation leader.
Want to learn how we can help you grow your consulting business? Schedule your free Growth Session Call today! www.consultingsuccess.com/growMentioned in this episode:Get Expert Insights into Your Consulting Business: Claim Your FREE Growth Session Now!Want to get personalized feedback and actionable insights on your consulting business from seasoned experts who've been in your shoes? The Consulting Success Clarity Coaching Program offers just that, and you can experience a taste of it with a FREE, no-obligation Growth Session. On this call, you'll explore how to optimize your business model, refine your messaging, and build a predictable stream of high-value clients. https://www.consultingsuccess.com/coaching-for-consultantsJoin an Elite Group of Consulting Founders in Montreal for Serious GrowthImagine being in a room where every other 6 or 7-figure consulting founder is as serious about growth as you are. That's the Consulting Success Mastermind in Montreal (Sept 18-20, 2025). This is your opportunity to build real relationships with top-performing consultants, share wins and challenges, and grow strategically together. As one past attendee said, it's "exactly what I've been needing." Ready for powerful connections & expert strategy? Explore the Montreal Mastermind: https://consultingsuccess.com/montreal
Think building a seven-figure consulting pipeline in just 16 weeks is impossible? Think again. In this episode, Melisa Liberman sits down with Ellie Holbert, a first-year independent consultant, who shares the real story of how she went from zero pipeline and a canceled contract to 56 opportunities and a multi-seven-figure funnel without prior sales experience.Ellie lays out the practical steps and mindset shifts that fueled her meteoric start, including how she reframed rejection, established peer-to-peer relationships with C-suite executives, and reached decision-makers at brand-name companies through a consistent, imperfect action strategy.Melisa and Ellie break down why being willing to be uncomfortable is a key advantage in building a thriving consulting business, and how emotional regulation, not flashy branding or a perfect elevator pitch became Ellie's superpower.Timestamps for Key Moments: [12:45] How Ellie created a repeatable pipeline strategy that turned cold outreach into C-suite conversations without pitching.[21:04] The specific tactics she used to book 115 calls and identify 56 qualified opportunities in just 4 months.[25:14] Why targeting the economic buyer, not just the end user, is critical to converting interest into closed business.[35:20] How to rewire your mindset to operate like a business owner, not a job seeker even if you're new to consulting.Tune in to Episode 224 to get a playbook you can immediately apply to build or reboot your pipeline grounded in real actions, not theory.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-224/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 200 - What's Possible for your Consulting Business, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-200/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Connect with Ellie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-h-1b661147/Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
It's common for consultants to think of AI as a tool to boost efficiency, enhance insights, automate tasks, and improve client deliverables. It can help you scale your processes and routines.But have you also considered that AI can help you scale your thinking?In this episode, Melisa talks with Amanda Long, marketing strategist and custom GPT builder, about how consultants can create private GPTs to capture their intellectual property, streamline delivery, and scale their businesses without adding headcount. We share examples from my own business, including how we built a podcast post-production GPT that now does what used to take a full-time contractor.We also dismantle some common AI myths (you don't need to be tech-savvy or have piles of content to get started) and walk through ways to use custom GPTs to make smarter decisions, faster like a "co-CEO" that keeps your offers, goals, and voice front and center.Timestamps for Key Moments: [05:12] What a Brand Voice GPT is and how it can help solo consultants produce consistent, on-brand content even without a team[10:20] Why you don't need a big content archive to build an effective GPT that mimics your voice and style[14:58] The five key deliverables the Podcast Post-Production GPT produces to streamline weekly episode workflow[19:44] How to use a “Second Brain GPT” to vet ideas, stay aligned to your goals, and make faster decisions as a business owner[26:45] Ways to build GPTs around your repeatable processes, like proposals or client FAQs, to productize your expertise[35:00] Risks to watch for, including privacy pitfalls and hallucinations and how to avoid themTune in to Episode 223 for practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you work smarter, protect your intellectual property, and build a more scalable consulting business without losing your personal touch.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-223/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 181 - Transforming Into A Boutique Consultancy with Tradewinds Leadership, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-181/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Connect with Amanda: https://linkedin.com/in/amandalongsms Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
Most consultants think physical products are only for authors or e-commerce brands, not for them. In this episode, Melisa challenges that assumption head-on and takes you behind the scenes of a new physical product line she's launching.This isn't a product pitch, it's a case study. She's sharing the full backstory of why she started this, what's working, what surprised her, and how she's thinking about integrating physical products into her consulting business long-term.If you've ever thought:“I don't have a unique enough framework.”“I'm too much of a generalist.”“Wouldn't this compete with my services?”…this episode is for you. Melisa walks through why physical products can work for consultants, what mistakes to avoid, and how to start thinking creatively about how your IP can scale without taking you out of the equation.Timestamps for Key Moments:[03:22] How Melisa's accidental journal project turned into a new business unit and three physical products[11:19] How creating a product sharpened her methodologies and clarified her frameworks[22:50] Ways to use physical products as reputation and demand builders in your consulting business[29:30] Examples of physical products created by other consultants and what they charge for them[36:40] Key considerations before launching a physical product including budget, time, and energyTune in to Episode 222 for behind-the-scenes insight, inspiration, and real strategy to help you expand your consulting business in a creative, scalable way.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-222/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 200 - What's Possible for your Consulting Business, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-200/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com Products Mentioned In This Episode:Pip DecksThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team: Comprehensive KitInnovation Games: Creating Breakthrough Products Through Collaborative Play: Hohmann, Luke Visual Planning Template - Grove Tools, Inc.MethodKit Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa's Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
In this week's episode of the Seven Figure Consultant Podcast, I spoke to Joanna Lott about the realities of building a coaching or consulting business from the ground up. We explored the challenges new entrepreneurs face, from defining a niche and mastering marketing to overcoming visibility fears and developing a strong money mindset. Joanna also shared practical advice on leveraging personal connections, adapting to client needs, and embracing the messy, rewarding journey of entrepreneurship. Whether you're just starting out or refining your approach, this episode offers actionable insights for growing a thriving consulting business. In This Episode: [00:00:00] Joanna shares her background and motivation for helping coaches. [00:01:17] Discussion about the gap between coach training and actually building a business, and the misleading promises from training organizations. [00:03:21] Joanna describes the shock new coaches face regarding marketing, sales, and the importance of niching. [00:05:20] Clarifying the focus on executive and corporate-facing coaching, and the dual audience of organizations and individuals. [00:09:15] Advice on aligning marketing messages to organizational pain points and the importance of targeting decision-makers. [00:11:45] Joanna's advice on choosing a specialism, researching organizational needs, and being open in client conversations. [00:15:10] Discussing the discomfort around sales, visibility, and the money mindset issues new coaches face. [00:17:17] The value of reaching out to existing contacts for leads, and the vulnerability involved in doing so. [00:21:00] Stories about landing first contracts, learning to ask about budgets, and the evolution of pricing confidence. [00:23:58] The importance of being willing to fail, adapt, and learn from missed opportunities in proposal and offer development. [00:25:16] Encouragement to embrace high-ticket pricing and the reality that there's no single “right” answer in new service creation. [00:28:36] The role of resilience in entrepreneurship, celebrating growth milestones, and the emotional rollercoaster of early business. [00:31:58] Recognizing that business growth takes time, and the need to persist through uncertainty and discomfort. [00:34:40] Stories of how both hosts' businesses changed over time, and the importance of letting your brand and offers evolve. [00:38:38] Practical advice for new coaches. Key Takeaways: Visibility, sales resistance, and money mindset are the biggest hurdles. Getting over the fear of being seen and learning to confidently price your services are non-negotiables if you want to grow. Many high-value corporate contracts begin with a simple message to a past colleague. Be clear, be specific and always end with a question, not a full stop. Successful proposals start with curiosity. Don't cling too tightly to a pre-planned offer - let conversations with organizations shape what you deliver and how you position it. Quotes: “The heartbreaking thing is that people just don't buy freedom or having a great life. They don't buy coaching. They buy the result that they want.” - Joanna Lott “I find clients get very attached to their offer. … If they just take a step back and really, really listen in those conversations, they could gain more opportunities. Because if you're trying to only pitch your one little offer that you've got in your head that you want to sell, it's really tricky. Get the other person talking as much as possible as to what their challenges are, and then essentially use your coaching skills to reflect everything you heard and decide at that point, if that's something that you want to offer or not.” - Joanna Lott “So I think it is being willing to learn and fail in public in front of people that perhaps you used to know. And yeah, not always knowing the right answers… There is no one right figure that's going to mean you are 100% guaranteed to get this contract.” - Joanna Lott “We can only learn in the trenches, in the sandbox, by getting our hands and feet dirty. That's the way it has to be.” - Jessica Fearnley “I often find those conversations that I get my clients having have a really fruitful outcome in terms of leads and sales. Even this year, I've got several clients who've made multi six-figure deals just by phoning up people that they've known for 20 or 30 years. It's such a quick win, but that can be such an uncomfortable thing to do because all of these things come up, like, ‘who am I to ask for this?'” - Jessica Fearnley Useful Links Joanna: JoannaLottCoaching.com 2025 Success Planner for Coaches Women in the Coaching Arena Podcast Jessica: Buy Jessica's book, Too Much, on Amazon Get in touch with Jessica to discuss your consulting business Leave a rating and review for the Seven Figure Consultant Podcast Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn Guest Bio Joanna Lott is a business coach who helps qualified coaches attract clients with honesty, not hype. As the host of The Women in the Coaching Arena, a top 2.5% globally ranked show, she provides practical strategies to help coaches grow thriving, sustainable businesses. With a track record of successfully selling executive, career and business coaching services to both organisations and individuals, Joanna has now supported hundreds of coaches in building profitable, integrity-driven businesses through strategic marketing. She is an ICF Associate Certified Coach and holds an ILM Level 7 Certificate in Executive Coaching & Mentoring, bringing a wealth of practical experience and professional expertise to her work.
Hey Friend, You're a Jesus-led career mom ready to turn your expertise into your first coaching business, but feel overwhelmed about where to start. You stare at your laptop thinking, "Where do I even begin with this business idea?" This episode is your breakthrough moment. I'm breaking down Brian Tracy's Eat That Frog through a Jesus-led entrepreneur lens, showing you how to overcome procrastination and finally start the coaching or consulting business God placed in your heart. You'll discover: Why doing the hard thing first is actually an act of obedience (not just productivity) The 80/20 rule for business startups—so you stop overthinking logos and start serving clients Your personal "frog" this week and how to tackle it in 15 minutes tomorrow morning Stop waiting for perfection. Clarity comes when you move with God, not when you wait for it. I pray this helps you take action! .
When Jamie first launched her sleep consulting business, things started off slow. She was juggling part-time work and navigating what it meant to grow something of her own.Fast-forward a year and a half—and she's now supporting five to eight families every single month, running her business from home, and confidently showing up on social media to connect with her audience. In this episode, we talk about:- What the early days of business really looked like- When and how she found her confidence- How social media became one of her biggest tools for growth- What her business looks like today—and how she envisions growth for the futureIf you've ever wondered what's possible with consistency, patience, and a little strategy… this one's for you.Links:Website: https://restedresults.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restedresults/If you'd like to learn more about becoming a Sleep Consultant, please join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/becomeasleepconsultantCPSM website: https://thecpsm.com/Book a free discovery call to learn how you can become a Certified Sleep Consultant here: https://jaynehavens.as.me/CPSM-Inquiry
In today's episode, we're tackling one of the most asked-about topics in the game—how to become a successful government consultant. Whether you're doing this full-time or trying to make it work on the side, this episode lays out the real blueprint. I'm walking you step-by-step through everything I've learned in the trenches—how to structure your business legally, how to find and pitch to million-dollar companies, how to position yourself as a value-add even if you've got zero past performance. I'm not holding anything back. We're talking capability statements, payment structures, how to charge, and exactly how to get companies to want you repping them in the federal space. This episode is your no-BS starter kit to making six figures and more as a consultant. If you're out here watching YouTube videos but not getting real traction, stop. You don't need more theory. You need a partner, a plan, and a path—and this episode gives you all three. I even break down why companies making $10M, $20M, or $30M a year will listen to YOU if you've done the work and know how to speak their language. So grab a pen, take notes, and let's get to work. It's time to stop thinking and start consulting. Watch the episode on Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1G5y7RROf20 Govcon Coaching: https://www.govconcoaching.com/home63196883 Pricing: https://www.govconcoaching.com/pricing-page
Client delivery is one of the most critical — and underleveraged — parts of your consulting business. In this episode, we walk through a practical, three-part framework to increase the value of your delivery, both for your clients and for your business.Most independent consultants tell me they feel confident once they land the work. But that doesn't always translate into knowing how to position your delivery as a value driver — something that generates referrals, repeat business, and higher pricing.This episode is your blueprint for transforming delivery from a transactional project into a strategic asset.You'll also get three AI prompts that you can use immediately to implement each component of the framework. Whether you're feeling stuck in the weeds or just want to sharpen your process, this episode will help you level up your delivery — without needing more tools, credentials, or client praise.Timestamps for Key Moments:[06:44] How to drive valuable client outcomes instead of defaulting into reactive execution[15:10] Why you need to codify your approach — and how even “generalist” consultants have repeatable frameworks[25:18] How your identity as a consultant directly affects your delivery value and client perception[30:33] 3 AI prompts to help you zoom out and strengthen your consulting mindset and impactTune in to Episode 220 to build a consulting business where delivery becomes your growth engine.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-220/Read Chapter 14 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 193 - Being In Control of Your Consulting Business Results, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-193/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
In this conversation, Luzy and Nadia discuss the journey of entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on the transition from corporate roles to running a business. Nadia shares her experiences with microaggressions in the workplace, the challenges of finding clients, and the importance of financial guidance. They also touch on the realities of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship and the strategies for choosing the right marketing platforms. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Nadia's Journey 02:54 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 05:48 The Realities of Entrepreneurship 08:51 Finding Your First Clients 12:01 Pricing Strategies and Financial Guidance 15:13 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 17:51 Choosing the Right Marketing Platforms About our guest: Nadya Ramos is a brand strategist, marketing consultant, and founder of MRK (mar-kah) Marketing Consulting. With 10+ years of experience and a master's in strategic communication, she helps solopreneurs and small business owners build trusted brands that attract dream clients and open doors to new opportunities. She brings a thoughtful, impact-driven approach to every project. Based in New Jersey, Nadya spends her free time hanging out with her little one, Noah. Apply to be part of Jefas & Wealth Mastermind: https://sayholawealth.com/jefas-wealth/ Mujer, don't forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with another amiga, let's build impact juntas!
#421 What if scaling your business didn't require a marketing degree — just the right systems and mindset? In this episode, host Brien Gearin chats with Phil Risher, founder of Phlash Consulting, about how he built a multi-million dollar consulting company from the ground up — without a traditional marketing background. Phil shares his unconventional journey from working at Enterprise Rent-A-Car to living in a school bus, to eventually helping home service businesses scale fast with a unique blend of consulting, content marketing, and strategic partnerships. You'll hear how he transitioned from solopreneur to building a high-performance team, productized his services, and structured his business to run without him in the day-to-day. If you're a service-based entrepreneur looking to grow and systematize your business, this episode is packed with practical strategies and inspiration! What we discuss with Phil: + From school bus living to CEO + Scaling home service businesses + Productizing a service business + Hiring without agency experience + Building referral partnerships + Managing consultants with performance pay + Leveraging CRMs like Jobber + Tracking return on ad spend + Growing through content marketing + Structuring a business for time freedom Thank you, Phil! Check out Phlash Consulting at PhlashConsulting.com. Follow Phil on LinkedIn and YouTube. Watch the video podcast of this episode! And follow us on: Instagram Facebook Tik Tok Youtube Twitter To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/millionaire. Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee! Want to hear from more incredible entrepreneurs? Check out all of our interviews here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sometimes you need a client win — fast.Whether it's to refill your pipeline, create a cash infusion, or just shake off a dry spell, this episode walks you through how to create and implement a quick-win strategy that actually works (and doesn't feel like a scramble).We're not talking about discounting your value or saying yes to low-quality consulting client leads. This is about designing a repeatable, strategic approach that positions you for fast client conversions — and long-term growth.You'll learn the Four-part Quick Win Formula for consultants, What consultants typically get wrong about speed-to-sale, and How to remove the mental and emotional brakes that slow down your momentum.Timestamps for Key Moments:[06:24] What a "Quick Win" really is and how to reframe your definition of what's possible in your consulting sales cycle[10:44] Quick Win Thinking: How to recognize and remove mindset patterns that silently sabotage your speed[14:30] Quick Win Emotions: Why the energy you bring to your sales activity makes or breaks your results[19:54] Quick Win Plan: Who to target, what to offer, and how to get creative without diluting your brand[24:45] Quick Win Execution: How to structure and commit to your 30-day sprint using a business-owner mindsetTune in to Episode 219 for a repeatable framework to infuse your business with revenue, confidence, and traction — exactly when you need it.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-219/Read Chapter 9 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBEpisode 210 – Managing Your Consulting Business through KPIs, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-210/ Episode 156 - The 3 Lead Generation Modes for a Consulting Business Pipeline, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-156/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
If you've ever thought about starting or growing a nonprofit consulting business, this episode is for you! Our guest, Mandy Pearce, is the founder of Funding for Good, where she has spent over two decades helping nonprofits build sustainable fundraising strategies. She also coaches aspiring and established consultants, helping them refine their business models and create profitable, purpose-driven consulting practices.In this episode, Mandy shares her journey into consulting, the biggest lessons she's learned, and practical advice on how to attract clients, price your services, and create multiple income streams. She also gives us a sneak peek into the Nonprofit Consulting Conference, an event designed to help consultants grow, network, and scale their businesses.In This Episode, We Discuss:✔️ How Mandy transitioned from working in nonprofits to running a successful consulting business.✔️ The biggest challenges consultants face—and how to overcome them.✔️ The power of niching down and defining your expertise.✔️ How to attract and retain high-value nonprofit clients.✔️ Pricing strategies: Hourly vs. project-based—what works best?✔️ How to build passive income as a consultant (courses, memberships, and more!).✔️ Why Mandy launched the Nonprofit Consulting Conference and what attendees can expect.✔️ Essential steps for scaling and sustaining a profitable consulting business.About Mandy Pearce:Mandy Pearce and her team at Funding for Good have been influencers in the nonprofit space since 2009 with a growing nonprofit consultant audience and an established list of more than 5,000 nonprofit consultants.In 2009, Mandy founded her flagship company, Funding for Good, to equip organizations with all of the skills and tools needed to become successful and sustainable. She continues to enjoy evolving this company to meet the changing demands of the nonprofit world. For over two decades, Mandy and her team of experts have shared their proficiency in fundraising through executive coaching, strategic and development planning, seminars and specialized consulting programs. Mandy's dynamic teaching style has brought thousands of people to her presentations at conventions, training workshops and online platforms. Mandy established Funding for Good, Inc. upon the core values of honesty, efficiency, direct communication and bringing sustainable dollars to local communities.Hit play now, then subscribe to Nonprofit Nation for more expert insights!Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts
Want to learn how we can help you grow your consulting business? Schedule your free Growth Session Call today! www.consultingsuccess.com/growMentioned in this episode:Get Expert Insights into Your Consulting Business: Claim Your FREE Growth Session Now!Want to get personalized feedback and actionable insights on your consulting business from seasoned experts who've been in your shoes? The Consulting Success Clarity Coaching Program offers just that, and you can experience a taste of it with a FREE, no-obligation Growth Session. On this call, you'll explore how to optimize your business model, refine your messaging, and build a predictable stream of high-value clients. https://www.consultingsuccess.com/grow
Does this situation sound familiar to you?You send a consulting proposal. Or you email your one-pager, expecting a next step. Then — silence.You don't hear back.If you're questioning your follow-up strategy, not sure what to do to follow-up, this episode is for you.In this week's episode, Melisa dismantles the outdated (and ineffective) habits independent consultants fall into when it comes to follow-up. You'll hear how to approach follow-up in a way that adds value and reinforces your expertise — instead of second-guessing, worrying about being annoying, or appearing desperate.She shares how not to follow up (including a few examples you'll recognize), then walks you through a strategic follow-up framework that keeps your momentum and creates consulting client demand.Timestamps for Key Moments:[05:02] Why most follow-up feels awkward — and what actually causes you to spiral when clients go dark.[09:45] What “strategic follow-up” looks like in your consulting business (hint: it's not about “circling back”) [14:50] How to follow up with value — 4 examples you can swipe and use today. [20:35] 5 ways to set yourself up for consistent, confident follow-through (without the mindset drama).Tune in to Episode 218 for practical examples, mindset shifts, and frameworks that help you move deals forward — without the second-guessing.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-218/Read Chapter 9 in Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBEpisode 170 – Being Ghosted as an Independent Consultant, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-170/ Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
You solve problems. That's what you do best as a consultant.But what if you're focused on solving the wrong problem in your own consulting business?In this episode, Melisa breaks down a counterintuitive truth: many consultants plateau or underearn not because they don't have solutions, but because they're solving problems they've already outgrown.Melisa shares a real client case study that illustrates how thought errors can keep you solving yesterday's problems and sabotaging your current and future growth. You'll walk away with a new lens for assessing what really needs your attention — and how to stop spinning your wheels on challenges you've already outgrown.Timestamps for Key Moments[04:22] What it looks like to fix the wrong problem and why it's such a common trap for ICs[07:30] A real-world example of a consultant who outgrew his lead gen problem but didn't update his mindset[13:50] The identity and positioning shifts that opened up capacity and growth[18:36] How to shift from more to better — refining your focus instead of adding more to your plate[23:45] Three questions to uncover if you're solving the wrong problemTune in to Episode 217 to shift your perspective and refocus your energy on what actually moves the needle in your business.Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-217/Subscribe to Melisa's newsletter: The Independent - Weekly Newsletter, https://www.melisaliberman.com/newsConsulting Business Health Assessment – Take The Consultant's Business Health Assessment, https://assessments.melisaliberman.com/consulting-health-assessmentWork with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://consultmelisa.com Want More?Get Melisa's Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa's Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.
How can experience in corporate sales roles and a digital marketing side hustle become the foundation for a thriving 7-figure consulting firm? Phil Risher, founder of Phlash Consulting, shares his unique journey, which included running a personal finance blog, living in a converted school bus, and dramatically boosting a client's business before launching his own consultancy focused on home service businesses.Phil reveals the strategic thinking behind his service model and how he differentiates his firm. He emphasizes embracing the consulting aspect over being just another agency: "I could have called it Phlash Digital... but I didn't. I called it Phlash Consulting. Why? Because we're a consulting company. We take your data, we analyze your data, we make decisions, we help you grow your business. We're not just a cookie-cutter digital marketing company." Today, Phil details his path to building an 11-person team and achieving 7-figure revenues.Mentioned in this episode:Get Expert Insights into Your Consulting Business: Claim Your FREE Growth Session Now!Want to get personalized feedback and actionable insights on your consulting business from seasoned experts who've been in your shoes? The Consulting Success Clarity Coaching Program offers just that, and you can experience a taste of it with a FREE, no-obligation Growth Session. On this call, you'll explore how to optimize your business model, refine your messaging, and build a predictable stream of high-value clients. https://www.consultingsuccess.com/grow Free Masterclass: Earn More, Work Less & Attract Ideal Consulting Clients!Body: In this episode, we discussed [mention a relevant podcast topic - e.g., client acquisition, scaling challenges]. Ready to break free from unpredictable income and build a thriving consulting practice without burning out? Join the FREE Strategic Consulting Growth Masterclass to learn the proven strategies 6 & 7-figure consultants use to attract perfect-fit clients and design irresistible offers. Stop the guesswork! Save your seat for the live training (or get the recording!): www.consultingsuccess.com/strategic-business