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This week, Jen and Pete go through their intentions, phrases, and things they are thinking about in preparing for the year ahead.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:How do Jen and Pete reflect on the past year, in order to look ahead?How is an unexpected unknown shaping Jen's year?What intention is Pete going to set for his upcoming year?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
Dirk Kreuters Vertriebsoffensive: Verkauf | Marketing | Vertrieb | Führung | Motivation
Everyone is busy planning what they're bringing into 2026. New goals. New strategies. New habits.But what if the real progress comes from deciding what doesn't make the cut?In this episode, we flip the usual New Year conversation on its head and talk about the things solopreneurs should seriously consider leaving behind. From creating content just because it's “trending,” to chasing passive income fairy tales, to saying yes to clients and projects that quietly drain your energy, we break down what's no longer serving your business (or your life).This is a practical, honest conversation about focusing on what actually works for your audience, your strengths, and your version of success. If you want to head into 2026 with more clarity, less noise, and a business that feels sustainable instead of exhausting, this episode is your permission slip to let some things go.Episode FAQsWhat should solopreneurs stop doing in 2026 to grow faster and feel less overwhelmed?Solopreneurs should stop doing activities that don't directly support their audience, revenue, or energy. This includes creating content without a clear strategy, chasing “passive income” shortcuts, comparing their progress to others, managing every task themselves, and saying yes to clients or projects that don't align with their core business. Letting go of these habits creates space for focus, clarity, and sustainable growth.Is passive income actually realistic for solopreneurs, or is it mostly hype?Passive income is possible for solopreneurs, but it is rarely instant or effortless. Sustainable passive income usually comes from productizing services, creating courses, books, or digital products after significant upfront work. Solopreneurs should avoid “get rich quick” promises and instead focus on building offers that reduce one-on-one time while still delivering real value and support to customers.How do solopreneurs know what to say no to without hurting their income?Solopreneurs should say no to projects that fall outside their core expertise, disrupt their workflow, or pull them away from their ideal clients even if the opportunity seems appealing in the moment. Long-term income stability comes from focus, consistency, and repeatable offers, not from taking on one-off or misaligned work that creates stress and inefficiency.
For creatives and freelancers, time and attention are our most valuable resources. In this New Year special, I dig into the idea of enshittification - how online platforms slowly shift from serving users to extracting value from them - and why social media, algorithms, and subscription-based systems are quietly undermining creative focus, ambition, and long-term work.This episode is about recognising the trap that today's platforms have set, stepping away from systems that no longer serve you, and refocusing your energy on work that actually matters - work that is significant, honest, and genuinely representative of you as a creative.OFFICIAL WEBSITE: https://www.filmproproductivity.com/TWITTER: https://twitter.com/FilmProProdPodFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/filmproproductivityCONTACT: https://www.filmproproductivity.com/contactINDIE FILM HUSTLE: https://indiefilmhustle.com/ifh-podcast-network-filmmaking-and-screenwriting/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqo0Zld2Lm2lJDpDh3GsuZgQUOTES:“The enshittification of platforms is not a bug. It's the business model.” Cory Doctorow “When growth becomes impossible, companies turn to extraction, and quality is the first casualty.” Cory Doctorow “Before long, you're not making films. You're making content.” Elliot Grove“When you build on someone else's platform, you're building on land you don't own.” Douglas Rushkoff “The most important thing a creator can do is make something that matters. Everything else is noise.” Cory Doctorow-----------------------------------------------------------Please check out my friends shows:FILM FIGHTS WITH FRIENDS PODCASTTHE FILMMAKERS PODCASTTHE HORROR CUTWILDE WORLD-----------------------------------------------------------Thanks:A Himitsu Music: Adventures by A HimitsuCommons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b...Music released by Argofox https://www.youtu.be/8BXNwnxaVQEMusic provided by Audio Library https://www.youtu.be/MkNeIUgNPQ8 –––Contact the artist: x.jonaz@gmail.comhttps://www.facebook.com/ahimitsuhttps://www.twitter.com/ahimitsu1https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgFwu-j5-xNJml2FtTrrB3A
Freelancers are great at pushing through. We hit deadlines, juggle clients, and squeeze productivity out of thin air. But here's the truth many of us avoid: Our physical health often pays the price. In today's episode, we're talking about the side of freelancing that rarely gets airtime — the slow erosion of our health when the business becomes the only priority. And we're doing it with someone who brings deep experience, grounded wisdom, and a refreshingly simple approach: my friend Lucie Robazza, a certified health coach, personal trainer, kinesiologist, and founder of Strenxia. This conversation started because this past summer I made a real commitment to improving my own health. No crisis. No big scare. Just a decision that the way I'd been operating wasn't sustainable. I shifted to a concierge-style medical practice, partnered closely with my doctor, and began tracking meaningful health metrics — the biomarkers that tell the real story of how your body is functioning. With his guidance, I'm working one day at a time to make real improvements through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. As I dug in further, it became impossible to ignore how many freelancers are quietly struggling with the same thing. So I asked Lucie to help us understand what's actually going on, especially for the women in this audience who face unique challenges in midlife that mainstream advice often misses. This episode is practical, simple, and surprisingly encouraging. What You'll Learn · How long hours, stress, and irregular routines affect your key health markers · Why midlife health — especially for women — doesn't follow the "standard" playbook · Why fatigue, brain fog, and stubborn weight changes often aren't moral failings but physiological signals · How to work with your doctor more effectively and ask smarter questions · Simple, sustainable steps to start rebuilding your health without blowing up your life Key Ideas & Takeaways Most freelancers operate in a chronic low-grade stress state: This affects everything from thyroid function to inflammation to metabolic health You can't improve what you don't measure: Baseline labs — cholesterol, triglycerides, thyroid panels, fasting insulin, A1C, and more — are biomarkers, not judgments Midlife changes are real, especially for women: What worked at 25 doesn't work at 45, and that's not a discipline issue Small, consistent improvements beat dramatic overhauls: The "1% better" approach is not only sustainable but often more effective Your doctor is a partner, not a vendor: Preparing questions, bringing context, and understanding your metrics changes the entire experience Download Lucie's 5-Day Writer's Reset Challenge If you're ready to reclaim your energy, improve your daily habits, and build a healthier foundation for your business, download Lucie's 5-Day Writer's Reset Challenge. It's FREE, and it's built for writers who want meaningful change without a complicated program. Disclaimer: Before making changes to your diet, exercise, or health routines, always consult with a qualified medical professional. The information in this episode is for informational purposes only and not to be treated as medical advice. Neither Lucie nor I are doctors. If this episode resonates, share it with another freelancer who's been pushing too hard for too long. This might be the nudge they need.
In the final days of 2025, Jen and Pete noodle on what should be the top priority to have prepared as we move in to 2026.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:Why is it important to have an idea of what success looks like for you?What is an outcome goal? What is a process goal?How might we measure and take an audit of our existing assets?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
If the word sales makes you tense up, this episode is about to change everything.In this conversation, sales expert Adam Cerra breaks down why most solopreneurs struggle with selling, and it's not because they're bad at it. It's because they've been taught the wrong mindset. Instead of “closing,” Adam introduces inverse closing, a way to turn sales calls into guided conversations where prospects sell themselves without pressure, manipulation, or feeling salesy.You'll learn how to stop pricing your time and start pricing your wisdom, how to run discovery calls that feel collaborative (not awkward), and how to follow up without chasing or feeling desperate. Whether you're booking your first calls or already selling high-ticket services, this episode gives you practical, confidence-boosting shifts you can apply immediately.Episode FAQsWhat is inverse closing, and why does it work for solopreneurs?Inverse closing is a sales approach where the solopreneur acts as an assessor rather than a closer. Instead of pitching, you guide the prospect to articulate their own needs and reasons for buying. This works especially well for solopreneurs because it removes pressure, builds trust, and aligns sales with service, making conversations feel natural and collaborative.How can solopreneurs stop feeling “salesy” on discovery calls?Solopreneurs stop sounding salesy when they shift from trying to convince someone to helping them self-evaluate. By asking thoughtful, emotionally driven questions and listening deeply, the call becomes a guided conversation instead of a pitch. This approach positions the solopreneur as a trusted authority, not a persuader.What's the best follow-up strategy if a prospect doesn't buy on the first call?Most prospects don't buy on the first call, and that's normal. A strong follow-up strategy treats the second call as a continuation—not a chase. By maintaining leadership, referencing prior conversations, and removing urgency pressure, solopreneurs can increase conversions without sounding needy or desperate.
Two Heads: Brand Marketing & Strategic Coaching for Today's Marketplace
Today, we are opening the door to a massive opportunity that many business owners assume is locked. We're talking about how to scale your business to the moon using an expertise-rich team of contract employees and freelancers without the weight of a traditional payroll.
Ever wonder which tools and services you actually need as a solopreneur, and which ones are just shiny distractions?In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly and Joe revisit one of the most debated sections of their book, Solopreneur Business For Dummies: setting up your company's tools and services.From creating rock-solid SOPs to knowing when to outsource, to avoiding the dreaded “tool overload,” they break down how to make smarter choices that actually save you time. Plus, they share how AI can help today (and where it still falls short). If you've ever felt stuck between doing it all yourself, hiring help, or buying yet another app, you won't want to miss this conversation.Episode FAQsShould I outsource tasks as a solopreneur or keep doing everything myself?You don't need employees to be a solopreneur, but you also don't have to do everything alone. Outsourcing to contractors or companies for specific tasks can save time and prevent burnout. The key is to outsource before you're desperate. This way, you have time to properly train someone and set up processes that work.How do I know which tools are worth paying for?Start by identifying the specific problem you want to solve, then choose tools that are simple, affordable, and easy to integrate with your current setup. Avoid chasing “shiny objects” that solve problems you don't even have yet. Use free trials strategically and actually test them on a real task during the trial period, and start with monthly payments until you're confident it's a good fit.What should come first: documenting processes or finding tools and services?Always start with documenting your processes in the form of standard operating procedures (SOPs). If you try to outsource or automate a broken process, you'll only make the problems bigger. SOPs give you a clear, repeatable checklist that works whether you do it yourself, hand it off to someone else, or use a tool to automate it.
In their annual tradition, Jen and Pete list their very favo(u)rite things of 2025.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about their favo(u)rite:Fiction book.Non-fiction book.Podcast.TLATSOI episode.Thing they watched.Motto.Thing they discovered about themselves.To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
Why is it so hard to explain what you do, even when you're really good at it? In this episode, messaging strategist Damian Vallelonga breaks down why solopreneurs struggle with clarity, confidence, and consistency in their messaging, and what to do about it.We talk about why referrals aren't a strategy, how vague language quietly kills opportunities, and the exact framework Damian uses to help solopreneurs create elevator pitches, website headlines, and LinkedIn bios that actually make sense to other humans. If you've ever said, “I know what I do, I just don't know how to explain it,” this episode is for you.Episode FAQsWhy do solopreneurs struggle to clearly explain what they do?Solopreneurs struggle to explain what they do because they know too much. Years of experience, details, and expertise live in their heads, making it hard to simplify their message for someone hearing it for the first time. Clear messaging requires stepping outside your own perspective and focusing on what your audience needs to understand, not everything you know.What is the simplest framework for creating an effective elevator pitch?An effective elevator pitch has three parts:The common problem your ideal client is struggling withWhat you do to help solve that problemThe outcome or transformation they experience as a resultThis structure keeps your message focused, relatable, and easy to remember, without turning it into a list of credentials or services.How often should solopreneurs update their messaging?Solopreneurs should revisit their messaging any time their business changes in a meaningful way. This includes adding or removing services, narrowing a niche, shifting strategy, or changing who they serve. Messaging should always follow business strategy, because outdated or unclear messaging creates confusion, and confusion is one of the biggest barriers to growth.
Run your agency with clarity, confidence, and control. Many creative and marketing agency owners are closer to real growth than they realize.In this episode, Jesse Gilmore, CEO and founder of Niche in Control, breaks down the mindset and structure shifts that agency owners must make to achieve freedom, scalability, and financial success. He shares how to move from being the doer to being the leader, why perfectionism is holding you back, and how to build a business that thrives without you working 80-hour weeks. Key takeaways:The 80/20 rule for creativity. Learn how to systemize 80% of your operations so you can focus your creativity on the 20%.How to overcome perfectionism. Perfectionism keeps agency owners trapped. Power of time audits. Discover how tracking your time for just seven days can expose hidden inefficiencies. Value-based pricing beats hourly billing. Learn how value-based pricing helps agencies earn more while working less.How to go upmarket strategically. Agencies must move toward strategy-based offers and premium clients to stay competitive.Tune into the episode of ▶️Stop Thinking Like a Freelancer—Start Earning Like a Founder.Find more podcast episodes on our website: anderscpa.com/learn/podcasts/ Episode resources:● Anders Virtual CFO by Anders website: anderscpa.com ● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://anderscpa.com/learn/ ● Check out the Virtual CFO Playbook Course: https://anderscpa.com/virtual-cfo-services/vcfo-playbook/ Quotes-Jesse Gilmore: "Tracking time reveals hidden inefficiencies. Once you see where time really goes, you can start eliminating, automating, and delegating effectively."-Jamie Nau: "An outside perspective helps agencies see what truly sets them apart, what you think is your strength might not be what clients value most."Jesse Gilmore is the CEO and founder of Niche in Control, where he helps full-service creative and marketing agency owners scale their businesses while reclaiming their time and freedom. Through his Leverage for Growth program, Jesse guides agency leaders from being hands-on hustlers to confident CEOs who build scalable systems, attract high-value clients, and lead empowered teams. His proven methods have helped countless agency owners double revenue, increase profit margins, and reduce work hours all without sacrificing quality or balance. Website: https://www.nicheincontrol.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/NicheInControl LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessepgilmore/https://www.linkedin.com/company/niche-in-control/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/niche.in.control/ X: https://x.com/ControlNiche TitTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nicheincontrol &nb
The world is transforming FAST, but creative professionals aren't going extinct—they're evolving. In this eye-opening episode, Preston and Amy Suto dive deep into how freelancers can not just survive, but truly thrive in the age of AI, revealing surprising opportunities for those willing to adapt and specialize. Support our show sponsors -> https://freelancetofounder.com/sponsors Submit your own question -> https://freelancetofounder.com/ask Connect with Amy -> Book: https://amysuto.com/power Website: https://MakeWritingYourJob.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
After years of working alongside solopreneurs, 2025 finally gave us something new: real data, real patterns, and real lessons we couldn't ignore. In this episode, Carly and Joe step back from the nonstop AI conversation to unpack what actually moved the needle for solopreneurs this year, and what didn't. From why “human-first” marketing is outperforming polished automation, to the growing importance of personal brand, systems, community, diversified income, and mental health, this is a practical, honest look at what it truly takes to build a sustainable solo business.If you're heading into the next year wanting less stress, more clarity, and a business that works with your life instead of against it, this episode breaks down the biggest solopreneur lessons of 2025, and how to apply them moving forwardEpisode FAQsWhat were the biggest solopreneur lessons learned in 2025?The biggest solopreneur lessons from 2025 were that human-first marketing outperforms automation, strong personal brands build more trust than “company-style” positioning, and long-term success depends on systems, community, diversified income streams, and mental health. Solopreneurs who focused on authentic connection, clear processes, and sustainable work-life balance were more resilient and experienced less stress than those chasing trends or over-relying on a single client or revenue source. Why does a human-first approach matter more than ever for solopreneurs?A human-first approach matters because audiences are increasingly skeptical of overly automated, impersonal content. In 2025, solopreneurs saw stronger engagement and trust when they showed up as real people, sharing their perspective, personality, and lived experience instead of hiding behind polished brand language. Being authentic, transparent, and emotionally relatable helps solopreneurs stand out and build meaningful relationships, especially in an AI-saturated market. How can solopreneurs reduce stress while growing their business?Solopreneurs can reduce stress by building systems and processes, diversifying income streams, avoiding over-dependence on one or two clients, and intentionally protecting mental health and work-life balance. Investing time in documentation, automation, and community support creates long-term efficiency, while multiple revenue streams and customers reduce financial risk. Treating mental health as part of the business plan helps ensure the solopreneur, and the business, remain sustainable.
Freelancers are giving away their most valuable AI insights, and not getting paid for it. In today's episode, we're taking a hard look at one of the biggest blind spots for freelance writers and content pros right now: the failure to package your AI knowledge into a paid offer. Your clients want to use AI. They're trying. But they're confused, overwhelmed, and scared of doing it wrong. And guess what? You already have the skills and experience to guide them. But unless you turn that informal help into a structured service, it's just free advice that goes nowhere. In this episode, we're going to fix that. What You'll Learn Why most freelance writers are leaving serious money on the table when it comes to AI The three types of AI helpers, and why only one gets paid what they're worth How to package your AI knowledge into a sellable offer (with real examples) The "three blockers" that keep most freelancers from monetizing their AI skills What happens after you package your AI services, and how to push through impostor syndrome Key Ideas & Takeaways The real constraint is implementation confidence within your clients' teams. Everyone has the tools. What they don't have is the confidence to use them well. They're worried about brand voice, risk, reputation, and wasting time. That's where you come in. But clients won't pay you for casual tips. They'll pay for structured guidance. The 3 Types of AI Help The Informal Helper (Invisible Labor) · You're answering AI questions and offering tips for free · No structure, no price, no perceived value The AI-Enabled Doer (Efficient But Undervalued) You use AI to deliver better work faster, but you're still billing for output, not insight Clients don't see the "how," just the deliverable The AI Implementation Partner (Where the Money Is) You guide teams, build workflows, train staff, and solve real problems This is a packaged consulting offer, and it can command $5K–$10K+ fees The 3 Packaging Blockers (And How to Overcome Them) Blocker 1: "I don't know enough" Reality: You don't need to be an expert, just more knowledgeable than your clients Action: Write down 10 AI lessons you've learned the hard way. Your first offer is likely somewhere in there Blocker 2: "I don't know what to sell" Reality: Your offer is hiding in your inbox and client conversations. Extract it from the questions clients already ask Action: Track every AI-related client question over the next 30 days. Your next offer is in there Blocker 3: "I don't know how to price it" Reality: You're not selling outputs, you're selling transformation Action: Anchor your pricing to the outcomes and risk reduction you create The Anatomy of a Packaged AI Service Every successful offer has four parts: The Constraint You're Managing Examples: "I help marketing teams adopt AI without destroying their brand voice." "I implement AI systems legal will approve." "I guide consultants through using AI to mine insights from their internal data." The Deliverables & Process Week 1: Audit Weeks 2–3: Build custom GPTs, create systems Week 4: Train team, hand off playbook The Timeline 3–4 weeks is ideal. Clear start, clear end. The Outcome/Transformation Examples: "You'll get an AI-powered content workflow that triples output without sacrificing quality." "You'll eliminate brand voice inconsistencies in AI-generated content." "You'll get your team onboard with AI confidently and safely." What Happens After You Package It You'll doubt yourself. That's normal You'll stumble through the first pitch You'll realize you know more than you thought Clients will love your structure more than your brilliance You don't need to be the best AI expert. You just need to be the one your client trusts. And you need to take those first few steps in faith, trusting that the path will appear as you move forward. Listener Challenge Take action this week: List 10 things you've learned from using AI in your freelance work Track any AI-related questions your clients ask Package what you already know into a 3–4 week offer Pitch it to one person Start small. Start now. That's how real momentum builds. Want Help Packaging Your Own AI Service? If this episode sparked ideas, I'm running a half-day, 1-on-1 workshop plus a 3-week coaching sprint to help you package their AI knowledge into premium consulting services. No spots open at the moment, but I may open some spots in January or February. If you'd like to work with me privately on this, shoot me an email (ed at b2blauncher dot com) with "AI Consultant Accelerator" in the subject line, and I'll reply with the details. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts Leave a review to help more freelancers discover the show Share it with a friend who's sitting on unmonetized AI skills
The W9 form is an important form, and more than likely, you've either had a request for this form or, you yourself may be requesting them from your vendors. This form is used to collect information about others, but knowing in advance that you need to request this information will not only save you valuable time, but it will also give you the information you need to file necessary and accurate documents for your business as well. In today's podcast episode, I am covering what the W9 form is, who you need to request it from, and what you need to do with the information once you receive it. Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper or accountant, a virtual assistant or VA, or other professional; you will need this information for your business, and having an understanding about why you need this form will make an impact on you and your business. The W9 form is one of the first steps in the process for filing your 1099s, and making sure you have this information can save you from getting penalties for delinquent filing requirements… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
Coining a new term, Jen introduces Pete to the idea of, while working on a project, considering the relative effort of both the creator and the receiver.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:What is relative effort? What is relative risk?How might we ship things without the pressure of absolute perfection?Why might we think about the worst case scenario or fear, in order to move a project along?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
Unicorns Unite: The Freelancer Digital Media Virtual Assistant Community
Feel like you're doing everything right as a service provider, but your freelancer business still hasn't caught up? You know what to do, believe you deserve better clients and higher rates, but still default to playing small. It's time for an identity reset, especially as you wrap up the year and think about what needs to change in 2026. In this episode, Mindi Huebner and I dive into identity resets and mindset shifts for freelancers and the pre-strategy strategy behind attracting better clients and charging like the expert you already are.Mindi Huebner is the go-to Subconscious Success Alchemist for high-achieving women when success feels heavy. She's a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Certified NLP Practitioner, and creator of the 24 Karat Identity™ framework, a rapid identity alignment process that helps women shed conditioning, release the pressure to prove, and lead with self-trust. With hundreds of podcast and summit appearances, Mindi is known for blending neuroscience and intuition to unlock exponential growth and authentic leadership.Listen to learn more about:Why mindset isn't enough without identity alignmentThe pre-strategy strategy freelancers skip and why it mattersThe four success-blocking identities keeping freelancers stuckHow subconscious patterns sabotage SMART goalsWhat it really means to step into your 24-karat selfNotice what this conversation brings up for you. Don't ask WHY you keep doing it. Ask WHAT is making this hard. Mindi says, "Micro shifts make massive change"—this is how you close the identity gap between who you are and who you want to become.Sponsored by The Digital Marketer's Workgroup Are you already doing marketing work but need more clients and a stronger referral network? Join our tight-knit community of freelancers and get access to behind-the-scenes conversations, support, and troubleshooting that every solo marketer needs. Plus, you'll benefit from advanced trainings, networking opportunities, and exclusive job leads. Apply here!Links Mentioned in the Show:Book a free 15-minute Identity Call with Mindi to uncover what your subconscious is really wired for and where misalignment may be holding you back. You'll identify the patterns shaping how you lead and get clarity on what alignment could look like next.Take Mindi's free Subconscious CEO Identity Quiz to reveal the hidden pattern running your business. In just a few minutes, you'll see what's driving your decisions, spot the gap between where you are and where you want to be, and receive a guided audio reset to help you step into your next-level identity right away.Connect with Mindi:Instagram: @mindihuebner Facebook: Mindi Huebner-Subconscious Success AlchemistWebsite: http://mindihuebner.com/ Connect with Emily:Instagram:
What if the reason your business feels stressful isn't more work, it's how you're handling your money?In this episode, Megan Schwan pulls back the curtain on the financial mistakes almost every solopreneur makes (especially early on) and how to fix them without becoming a numbers nerd.We're talking pricing mistakes, scope creep, avoiding your books, fearing taxes, and why most solopreneurs are unknowingly treating themselves like underpaid employees. Megan breaks down bookkeeping systems, tax strategies, and the Profit First method in a way that actually makes sense, and helps you step fully into the CEO role.If you've ever said, “I'll look at my numbers next month,” this episode is for you.Episode FAQsWhat bookkeeping systems do solopreneurs really need to stay organized?You don't need complicated spreadsheets or expensive tools, but you do need structure. Megan recommends:A real accounting software (like Wave, QuickBooks Online, Zoho Books, or Xero)A mileage and receipt tracking system to capture deductionsA cash flow management system like Profit First to prioritize paying yourself, saving for taxes, and stabilizing cash flowThese systems help you treat your business like a business, not a side project.What's the first step if finances feel overwhelming or intimidating?Start doing your bookkeeping consistently. Megan emphasizes scheduling regular time to work on your business, not just in it. Reviewing your reports and understanding where your money is going builds confidence, clarity, and better decision-making. Avoiding the numbers only makes problems bigger later.How can solopreneurs become more recession-proof?Two big moves:Create a budget so you have a plan for your money and can ask smarter questions when numbers don't match expectations.Save for taxes proactively (about 8–15% of sales) so tax bills don't derail your cash flow or peace of mind.Megan also explains how Profit First helps solopreneurs build “real profit” and spot issues before they become emergencies.
Have you ever had that one memory that sits in the back of your mind? That thing you wish you'd done differently? Something you didn't say, something you did say, the opportunity you passed up, the relationship you didn't repair, or the career move you waited too long to make? Most people don't just have one regret; they carry an entire portfolio of regrets with them. And if you're an accountant, a tax preparer, or you're a high-stress professional, you likely have a detail-driven brain, and regret often impacts you a little differently. Because you're used to precision. You're used to accuracy. You're used to double-checking before you file anything. So when your brain looks back at your life, it tends to audit every moment with the same level of scrutiny. And suddenly? Something from ten years ago starts feeling like a mistake you should have prevented. Today, I want to help you rethink the entire emotional experience of regret. What it is, what it does, why it feels so heavy, and how you can use it in a way that actually moves you forward in life instead of holding you back. More importantly, I want to show you how The RE*INVENTION™ Process helps you transform regret. This is one of the top emotions we work on inside the program. And my clients tell me when they do this work, they stop using their past as evidence of what they think has gone wrong, and start using it as fuel for their future. Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
Russia is hiring African freelancers for disinformation campaigns, the US is preparing to let contractors run offensive cyber operations, Germany blames Russia for the hack of its air traffic control agency, and Apple patches two WebKit zero-days. Show notes Risky Bulletin: African freelancers behind anti-US and anti-French disinfo campaigns
Send us a textAs the year wraps up, it's the perfect time to reflect on how far you've come—and start thinking about what's next. In this solo episode, Janine shares how practicing gratitude can support a stronger, more aligned business plan as you move into a new season.You'll hear her personal reflections, lessons learned, and a mindset reset strategy that will help you rise with purpose in the year ahead.What You'll Learn in This Episode About Your Business PlanYou'll walk away with practical ways to use gratitude and reflection as tools to assess, refocus, and build a more intentional business plan.Key TakeawaysHow to reflect on your year with gratitude—even if parts of it were hardThe surprising way community can fast-track your progress and confidenceA mindset shift to help you let go of what's holding your business backHow to emotionally “declutter” before planning for a new yearA three-step framework—Reflect, Reset, and Rise—to guide your next business planWhy starting small, even when it's scary, is better than staying stuckWelcome to the Savvy Scribe Podcast, I'm so glad you're here! Before we start the show, if you're interested, we have a free Facebook group called "Savvy Nurse Writer Community"I appreciate you following me and listening today. I would LOVE for you to subscribe: ITUNESAnd if you love it, can I ask for a
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1898: Vicki Cook and Amy Blacklock break down why saying yes to unpaid work can undermine your business, time, and income, especially for women already carrying the weight of unpaid labor. They share clear, thoughtful criteria to help freelancers decide when working for free might serve their goals, and when it's better to walk away. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://womenwhomoney.com/work-for-free-exposure-experience/ Quotes to ponder: "Working for exposure is not the 'free advertising' that people claim it to be." "You aren't making money from paying customers when you choose to spend time producing free content, goods, or other services." "Freelancers striving to build their dream career don't work for free simply to help out others." Episode references: Estate Planning 101: https://www.amazon.com/Estate-Planning-101-Establishing-Understanding/dp/1507216394 UN Women on Unpaid Work: https://www.unwomen.org/en/node/36060
If the holidays feel like a chaotic mash-up of family gatherings, last-minute tasks, and pressure to magically “figure out next year,” this episode is your breath of fresh air. Carly and Joe break down why December is actually the perfect time to prep your business, without overhauling your life, and how reconnecting with your why can completely change the way you enter 2026. They'll walk you through mini-detox habits that clear mental clutter, lifestyle-first planning that puts joy back on the calendar, and small routines you can start now to build real momentum before January even arrives.FAQs From The EpisodeHow early should I start planning for the new year?Earlier than you think, but not in an overwhelming way. December is a great month to ease into planning by reconnecting with your personal and professional “why,” cleaning up digital clutter, and building tiny habits you want to bring into 2026. You don't need a full-year plan, focus on your first 90 days, because it's specific enough to take action but flexible enough to pivot as things change.What should I prioritize during a December “business detox”?Stick to high-impact clean-ups that reduce mental load: unsubscribe from emails you never read, unfollow accounts that drain your energy, organize your workspace, clear your desktop, and gather scattered to-dos into one place. These small resets set the stage for clearer thinking and a calmer January, without requiring hours of work.How do I build new habits for 2026 without burning out before the year even starts?Start practicing them now in micro-form. If you want to wake up earlier, try doing it one or two days a week in December. If you want to spend 10 minutes engaging on LinkedIn every morning, start this week. If you want to guard your deep-work hours, experiment with checking email later in the day. You're not aiming for perfection, just building familiarity so January doesn't feel like a hard reset.
ReImagining Ambition: Career advice that reflects your new relationship with work and career
Episode 59: From Side Hustle to Steady Work: Proven Strategies to Attract and Keep Freelance ClientsIf you've ever wondered “Where do clients actually come from?” – we're breaking it down for you. Whether you're freelancing, consulting, building a service-based business, or exploring a portfolio career, this guide helps you understand how people really find and hire you.You'll learn what actually works to attract clients (and what doesn't), how to build relationships that lead to paid work, and the simple systems that make it easier to generate consistent opportunities. Jenn walks through approachable, real-world steps like sending an introductory email, hosting or joining workshops, tapping into referrals, showing up in aligned communities, and creating a supportive professional ecosystem.This episode is about clarity, confidence, and finding a sustainable way to grow your client base without relying on complicated funnels, constant posting, or high-pressure sales tactics.Episode HighlightsHow freelancers actually find clients — the real sources that work in 2025Why referrals outperform websites, social media, and traditional marketingThe simple email script that can kickstart your freelance or consulting pipelineHow to use workshops, communities, and “other people's audiences” to get discoveredTurning past employers, colleagues, and friends into paying clientsWhat to say when talking about your services so people actually understand and hire youWhy building a portfolio career requires consistent relationship-building, not sales tacticsThe essential systems every freelancer needs: a simple CRM and data-driven habitsEpisode Timestamps00:00 — Freelance Market Trends: Why More People Are Exploring Independent Work(search terms: freelance market trends, independent workers, job market shifts)03:12 — Career Support Opportunities: Retreats, Coaching Bundles & Community Resources(search terms: career coaching, professional development retreats, job search community, career resources)08:07 — Finding Your First Clients: How Service Providers Get Hired(search terms: find your first clients, client acquisition, service providers)11:06 — Referral Strategies That Actually Work for Freelancers and Consultants(search terms: referral strategies, freelance referrals, consulting clients)12:18 — Audience-Building 101: Using Networks, Workshops & Community Visibility(search terms: audience building, professional network growth, workshops, visibility)16:33 — Industry Peers as Partners: Tapping Into Collaborative Networks(search terms: collaborative networks, partnership marketing, freelance networking)20:04 — Turning Past Employers Into Clients (and Pitching Project-Based Work)(search terms: turn employer into client, project-based work, fractional roles)26:48 — Systems That Support Growth: Simple CRMs & Tracking What Matters(search terms: freelance CRM, business systems, client tracking tools)Resources and LinksRevive Your Career Session or BundleWork Wonders Careers Job Search CommunityConnect with Jenn on LinkedInSacred Structures: A Retreat Day for the Capricorn New MoonEpisode 56: How to Create Income Without a Corporate Job: Portfolio Careers, Self Employment and Other Ways to Make $$Episode 57: What to Do When Your Industry Is in Crisis: Resume Strategies and Job Search Tips to Help You Pivot Careers in a Tough MarketCreditsPodcast editing by Vienna DeGiacomo, Good Story Branding
In this episode, Will Simpson gets honest about the moment he realized he didn't want a boss. He breaks down the identity crisis that hit after leaving decades of COO/CTO life, the surprising advantage founders over 40 actually have, why solopreneurs must unlearn corporate thinking, and how embracing “good enough” is the key to launching anything. If you've ever wondered whether you're too late, too structured, too corporate, or too unsure to build something of your own…this conversation is the permission slip you've been waiting for.FAQs From The EpisodeWhat makes this episode valuable for solopreneurs who come from the corporate world?Will explains exactly why corporate experience does translate, just not in the ways you think. He talks through the mindset traps, the “ambient stress” you leave behind, and how to rewire yourself for small-ball thinking, fast execution, and building something that actually energizes you.Does Will think it's harder to become a founder after 40?Not at all, he argues the opposite. According to Will, founders over 40 bring unmatched domain expertise, resilience, and clarity. The data supports it, and he shares why experience gives mid-career professionals an overlooked edge that younger founders simply can't replicate.What's Will's top advice for solopreneurs who want to use AI or no-code tools?He stresses that AI can help you build prototypes fast, but not without structure, constraints, and actual expertise guiding it. He breaks down why you can't “speak” a fully functional app into existence, how to think like a builder instead of a coder, and why you should ship an MVP that's slightly embarrassing.
There's often a misconception when it comes to figuring out what you'll be taxed on in your business. This is normally referred to as your net income. Many business owners will take a look at their business bank account and think this is the number they will use for their net income or what they will be paying taxes on, but it isn't an accurate way to look at it, and it causes a lot of problems, especially if that bank account balance is lower than the actual net income. I've heard many times that business owners don't think they will owe much for taxes because they only have a small dollar amount in their bank account. In today's podcast episode, I cover some of the main reasons why there may be a gap between your bank balance and your net income. It may seem like your bank balance would be an accurate way to tell what you'll be paying taxes on, but you'll find out today what can cause this number to not match what your true profit and loss or net income amount. Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper or accountant, a virtual assistant or VA, or other professional, when you are trying to figure out what you're tax liability will be based on, I want you to make sure you are as prepared as possible for filing your taxes, and you don't have any surprises pop up… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
If you're a freelance copywriter struggling to book clients consistently—or feeling like the clients who do inquire aren't the right fit—your copywriting rates might be the hidden issue. In this episode, we're diving into a belief-shifting conversation about how your pricing is impacting your sales, your inquiries, and your ability to grow. Because here's what most copywriters don't realize: pricing is either positioning you well or making clients skip over you for the next person in line. Your rates communicate your positioning, your perceived value, and your identity as a service provider. Whether you're a copywriter undercharging out of fear or overpricing without anchoring the value, this episode will help you recalibrate your pricing strategy with clarity. Tune in To Learn: Why most freelance copywriters have pricing that's either too low or too high—and how to know which one you are The hidden costs of undercharging (burnout, resentment, client churn) The psychology of price and how it shapes your perceived value in the market How to align your copywriting rates with your season of business, experience, and goals ********** ✨ Mentioned in this episode: → Get clarity with your personal 1:1 Offer Suite & Pricing Alignment Session with Krystle Church. DM her on Instagram or LinkedIn for info! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystle.church LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystle-church/ Like this show? Write a 5-star review — even just one sentence helps us bring you more content each week. Resources & Follow: → The KC Website: https://krystlechurch.com/ → Freedom Found Collective Mastermind: https://krystlechurch.com/freedom-found-collective → Get *Probably* The Best Copywriting Newsletter You'll Ever Read: https://krystlechurch.com/copy-classroom → Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/krystle.church
In Pete's version of an episode about running, he noodles with Jen about the idea of cadence, and how to break our routines projects into smaller steps.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:What does "cadence" mean, and how might we apply the idea to our everyday lives?Why is it better to not rush to the finish line, either while running or working? How might we return to the basics in our work and creative processes?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
Have you ever noticed that some problems just move into your life, and it never feels like they'll ever be solved? They take over your life, and you tell yourself things like, “Ugh. I don't have the energy to deal with this right now.” So you let them stay in your life. Before you know it, the days you are dealing with these problems turn into months, and months turn into “I guess this is just how my life is now.” Today I want to talk to you about those kinds of problems. The ones you've just decided to accept, even though deep down, you know you could solve them. The ones you think are “too big,” “too complicated,” or “too exhausting” to figure out. And if you're an accountant or a high-stress professional, I already know you have at least one of these floating around in your life. How do I know this? Because I've been there myself. Maybe you're dealing with a problem at work. It could be something that takes up a big chunk of your time every single day, but you haven't changed because “that's how we've always done it.” Maybe it's a habit, procrastinating on big projects, snacking on junk food late at night because you're too tired to cook something healthy, scrolling at night when you know you need sleep. Maybe it's a relationship you're not happy with. It could be with a client, a coworker, or a family member, and you continue to tiptoe around it because solving it feels like it is going to be hard or messy. Whatever you're dealing with, I want to help you understand one thing today. You can solve your problems. You're supposed to solve your problems. And solving them opens the door to opportunities you don't even see yet. This is the work we do inside The RE*INVENTION™ Process, not because solving problems is the point, but because solving problems is what creates the life you actually want. Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
Two Heads: Brand Marketing & Strategic Coaching for Today's Marketplace
Today, we are tackling the biggest hurdle for solopreneurs - this is the moment you move from "Freelancer" to "CEO." BJ and Rich will unpack how to do this without losing your shirt - or your mind.
Come see me talk about long-form content and comfort creators at Metricool's UNFILTERED: https://unfiltered.metricool.com/Subscribe to my YouTube channel: http://youtube.com/@thelatashajames/Cute raccoon mental health advice: https://www.reddit.com/r/wholesomememes/comments/yigmp7/this_is_the_most_important_mental_health_advice/
If you're ready to create a business that supports your life instead of running it, this is the episode you need.Carly and Joe dive into Step Zero of the Solopreneur Success Cycle: Defining Your Goals, and spoiler alert: it's way deeper than “make money” or “gain freedom.”You'll learn how to uncover your true why, build goals that actually guide your decisions, and avoid creating a business you secretly resent. From toddler-style questioning to "change charts" and accountability hacks, this episode is your blueprint for building a business you actually like.Whether you're dreaming, pivoting, or feeling stuck, press play before you plan another move.
Navigating the year-end chaos is often top of mind for many business owners, professionals, and accountants during this challenging time when there is so much to do, not only in our professional lives but in our personal lives as well. During this year-end rush, it's easy to worry about how you'll manage the stress and ensure you not only get everything done but also find time to enjoy your holidays as well. In today's podcast episode, I walk you through some of the steps I work on with my one-on-one clients. These simple steps will help you navigate this busy time and help you savor the joy of the holidays. Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper or accountant, a virtual assistant or VA, or have a professional career, going into the holiday season with a plan, knowing the right balance between your professional life and your personal life, and making sure you take the time for your own well-being will definitely have an impact on every moment you get to enjoy during the upcoming holiday season… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
Jen shares a framework with Pete for thinking about many different perspectives at once, as opposed to sticking with the first perspective you might think up.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:How might you choose to believe in a perspective that is most beneficial to yourself?Why is considering many different perspectives a version of sonder?How might we broaden our idea of multiple perspectives in order to increase our level of empathy for others?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
As businesses face faster timelines and shifting skill needs, flexible talent has become a core part of the modern workforce — not a backup plan. Sunita Solao, CPO of Upwork, the freelance marketplace to hire top talent, joins host Monique Akanbi, SHRM-SCP, to unpack what that shift means for HR pros, how organizations can use flexible talent strategically, and why freelancers and contractors are rewriting the rules of talent planning. This podcast is approved for .5 PDCs toward SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP recertification. Listen to the complete episode to get your activity ID at the end. ID expires January 1, 2027. Subscribe to Honest HR to get the latest episodes, expert insights, and additional resources delivered straight to your inbox: https://shrm.co/voegyz --- Explore SHRM's all-new flagships. Content curated by experts. Created for you weekly. Each content journey features engaging podcasts, video, articles, and groundbreaking newsletters tailored to meet your unique needs in your organization and career. Learn More: https://shrm.co/coy63r
Okay friends, buckle up, because today's episode is one of those “wait… why has no one explained success like THIS before?” moments. We're talking with Kyle Austin Young who breaks down success not as a magical personality trait, but as something you can literally math your way into.Kyle takes us into the world of probability hacking, a shockingly simple way to figure out your real chances of success in anything (launching a business, writing a book, running a marathon) and then shows you how to change those odds in your favor.If you've ever wondered why some goals finally click, and others fall apart even when you want them just as much…this conversation is going to change how you think forever.FAQs from the EpisodeWhat exactly is probability hacking, and do I need to be good at math to use it?Nope! Probability hacking is simply listing out everything that has to go right for your goal to succeed…then calculating your actual chances instead of relying on vibes and wishful thinking. Kyle walks through it using basic numbers you can do on your phone, no spreadsheets, and no formulas that look like they escaped from NASA.How does this help me as a solopreneur?Because solopreneurs love goals…but often underestimate how many things have to align to actually hit them. Kyle's framework helps you see where your plan is fragile, what's likely to derail it, and, most importantly, how to systematically remove risk so your odds of success jump dramatically. How do I know whether to keep pushing or quit a goal?Kyle doesn't believe in quitting, he believes in pausing strategically. If your odds still look terrible even after removing risk, he suggests exploring alternate paths that may get you to your real underlying goal more efficiently. It's not giving up; it's probability-based pivoting.
Have you ever woken up, looked at your calendar, and felt that familiar heaviness or weight in your chest? The weight of a problem or challenge that you've been carrying for weeks, months, or maybe even years? Maybe it's a client situation that keeps spiraling, a workload issue you swear you're going to streamline “when things slow down,” or a personal struggle you've gotten so used to that it feels like part of your identity. If you're like most accountants, CPAs, business owners, and high-stress professionals, you're incredible at solving other people's problems, but when it comes to your own, something strange happens. You start to think things like, “It's too hard.” “It's not worth the effort.” Or, “This is just how things are for me.” And so you keep living with a problem you could absolutely solve. What I want to offer you today is something that has changed not only my life but also many of my clients' lives, and it's at the heart of The RE*INVENTION™ Process. There is no problem in your life that you cannot solve. Not one. And the moment you begin to believe that, even just a little, your entire life opens up. Today, I'm going to help you see your problems differently. I'm going to help you think the way high-performing, calm, emotionally regulated problem-solvers think. I'm going to show you how problems and challenges in your life can become doorways to opportunity, but only if you're willing to walk through them. Let's dive in… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community I'm inviting you to sign up for the free private podcast where I do a deeper dive into this topic on the Mastering Your Mindset Moments podcast for high-stress professionals: https://www.financialadventure.com/private Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit and Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan for you to move forward so you'll immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
You know that electric rush when you finally build the business you've been dreaming about? And then, right as you're about to tell people… you freeze?In this episode, Carly and Joe dive into one of the least discussed but most universal solopreneur struggles: the fear of actually putting yourself out there. Why do so many solopreneurs, yes, even the wildly successful ones, get stuck right at the moment visibility matters most?From perfectionism to vulnerability to the dread of “seeming salesy,” we break down why this happens, the hidden costs of staying quiet, and the powerful mindset shifts that help you move forward with confidence (including why “I'm not selling-I'm helping” changes everything).If you've ever hesitated to hit publish, announce your business, or send that first promo email, this conversation is going to feel like a giant exhale. You're not alone, and after this episode, you won't stay stuck.FAQs From The EpisodeHow do I promote my business without feeling salesy or annoying?Absolutely, this comes up constantly. The key is reframing. Promotion isn't about pushing; it's about helping. Share stories, tips, and solutions that genuinely support your audience. If your intent is to serve, people won't experience your message as “salesy," they'll experience it as valuable. And the people who aren't your ideal clients? They'll self-select out. That's a good thing.What if my work isn't perfect yet? Should I wait until it's ready?Short answer: No. Long answer: still no. Perfectionism is fear wearing a fancy outfit. Your audience can't benefit from what they can't see. Put the version out that is good enough to help someone right now. Then improve it based on real feedback instead of imagined critique. Visibility creates clarity.How do I get comfortable being visible if it feels so vulnerable?Start in your comfort zone and expand outward. If video feels like jumping off a cliff, start with written posts. If posting publicly feels overwhelming, start by sharing with a small circle. Momentum comes from micro-bravery. And remember: every solopreneur you admire felt this same discomfort. It's not a sign you're doing it wrong; it's a sign you're doing it.
Thinking about ditching the 9-to-5? Already navigating the ups and downs of freelance work? This episode is your financial playbook for thriving as your own boss. Jean Chatzky sits down with money coach and longtime freelancer Emily Guy Birken to unpack everything from budgeting on irregular income to choosing the right retirement accounts. Emily shares her personal percentage-based money system, explains why separate bank accounts are non-negotiable, and reveals the must-have clauses for every freelance contract. Whether you're freelancing full-time or hustling on the side, these tips will help you get paid, save smart, and sleep better. In This Episode: How to build a baseline budget as a freelancer A smart, percentage-based system for managing income The pros and cons of solo 401(k)s vs. SEP IRAs How to structure your business Why contracts are your best friend in freelance work How to stay emotionally grounded in unpredictable times Resources & Links:
When you think about the end of the year, do you have goals that you've set that you still need to achieve? When you take the time to be intentional about elevating your year-end success, you'll be sure to end the year with a sense of satisfaction, knowing you've done everything you could to wrap up this year not only with achievement but also momentum as you begin the new year. In today's podcast episode, I cover what you can do to elevate your year-end success. By unlocking your fullest potential before the new year, you'll cross the finish line this year knowing you've done your best. Whether you are starting a business or side hustle, you're a self-employed individual, a solopreneur, entrepreneur, mompreneur, freelancer, small business owner, a remote, virtual, online, or in-house bookkeeper, or a virtual assistant or VA, taking the time to really focus on what you want to achieve by the end of the year, creating actionable steps to ensure you get there, and being held accountable will ensure your journey towards a more successful you… Join us in a community built specifically for accountants and high-stress professionals. You'll receive support, accountability, and a community that understands what you're going through. We focus on stress reduction, increasing productivity, time management, goal achievement, health, happiness, and desired lifestyle: https://www.financialadventure.com/community Schedule your Complimentary Stress Audit And Clarity Session, where we'll work together to create a clear and focused plan and overcome the obstacles that stand in your way so that you can move forward and immediately start enjoying your life with less stress, increased productivity, and more time to spend doing what you love with the people you care about: https://www.financialadventure.com/work-with-me Accountants, CPAs, Bookkeepers, Tax Preparers & Financial Professionals, sign up here to get updates on upcoming opportunities & grab the Audit Of Your Well-Being & Balance Guide here: https://www.financialadventure.com/accountant Ready to set up your business? I have a program to help you get your business set up so that you can start making money. Sign up for this program here: https://www.financialadventure.com/start Are you ready to try coaching? Schedule an Introductory Coaching Session today. You'll have the opportunity to see how you like coaching with an Introductory Coaching Session: https://www.financialadventure.com/intro Join us in the Mastering Your Small Business Finances PROFIT LAB if you are ready to take control of your business finances and create the profitable business you are striving for. Are you ready to generate revenues and increase the profit in your business: https://www.financialadventure.com/profit If You Are Ready To Choose, Start Or Grow Your Side Hustle, Get Your Free Checklist And Assessment Here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sidehustle Grab Your FREE guide: 5 Essential Strategies For Stress-Free Bookkeeping: https://www.financialadventure.com/5essentials Your FREE Online Virtual Bookkeeping Business Starter Guide & Success Path Is Waiting For You: https://www.financialadventure.com/starterguide Join Our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womenbusinessownersultimatediybookkeepingboutique The Strategic Bookkeeping Academy, including Bookkeeping Basics, is open for registration! You can learn more and sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/sba Looking for a payroll solution for your business? You can get an exclusive 15% discount on your payroll services when you sign up here: https://www.financialadventure.com/adp QuickBooks Online - Save 30% Your First 6 Months: https://www.financialadventure.com/quickbooks Sign up for a virtual coffee chat to see if starting a Bookkeeping Business is right for you: https://www.financialadventure.com/discovery Show Notes: https://www.financialadventure.com This podcast is sponsored by Financial Adventure, LLC ~ visit https://www.financialadventure.com for additional information and free resources.
After a small existential crisis, Pete asks Jen how he might tell the difference between being competent or complacent.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about:What is the relationship between boredom, competency, and complacency?How might the repetition of a workshop, keynote, or show create an illusion of complacency?Why is having a coach, mentor, or trusted friend important in the viewing of your own work?To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
In this episode of the REAL Personal Branding Podcast, Lauren sits down with Kat Boogaard, a full-time freelance writer with over 10 years of experience. Kat specializes in long-form content for software clients in the "world of work" space and offers advice and resources for fellow freelancers through her newsletter, social media, and freelance shop. She shares her strategies for using data to book clients and secure speaking engagements, including leveraging content analytics, crafting pitches that get noticed, and attracting ideal clients via social media. Kat offers tips on personal branding, client acquisition, project-based pricing, recurring income, and scaling a freelance business without burnout. If you're a freelancer, entrepreneur, or a professional navigating a career transition who wants to grow your brand and land more opportunities, don't miss this episode with Kat Boogaard. Connect with Lauren V. Davis here: https://linktr.ee/ldaviscreative Connect with Kat Boogaard here: https://katboogaard.com/subscribe
If you've been getting hammered with “AI income hacks” on Instagram and TikTok, you are not alone. Carly has been targeted so aggressively that she's starting to suspect her phone can hear her thoughts, so today, she and Joe sit down with Becky Beach, a solopreneur who actually does this stuff successfully. From AI-powered funnels to Instagram chatbots to wildly profitable printable products, Becky breaks down exactly how she built a decade-long business that lets her make real money while still having time for her family. She shares the mistakes she made early, the systems she relies on now, and what solopreneurs need to know before diving into digital products or automations. If you've ever wondered, “Can this AI-funnel thing actually work?”...this episode is your answer.FAQs From The EpisodeCan I actually start with zero list and zero social media following?Yes, but not overnight. Becky makes it clear this is not a get-rich-quick play. She recommends picking a niche you genuinely care about, creating small pieces of free value, and using those to build your list through lead magnets. Social media helps, but email is what converts.Do I need design skills to sell printables or digital products?Nope. Becky happens to be a trained designer, but plenty of sellers rely on Canva, templates, or affiliate programs to get started. You can promote other creators' printables while you learn, then create your own later.Are AI funnels and chatbots too saturated now to work?Not if you bring something unique. Becky explains that even though AI is everywhere, most people execute poorly. Your edge is: – niching down – making user-friendly products – offering consistent free content – using your story and personality as your differentiator AI tools help automate and scale, but they only work if your foundation is solid.
Imagine being so booked out as a freelancer that you can't take on a single new client—so you start building a team. That's where Louise Ryan found herself. In this episode, she shares how she went from solo footwear designer to scaling toward a full-blown agency. We talk about the mindset shifts, growing pains, and strategic moves that helped her evolve beyond a one-woman show. If you're feeling maxed out and wondering what's next, Louise's story is the blueprint you've been looking for.Resources:209: From £4k to £12k A Month: How this Freelance Footwear Trend Consultant Did it!About Louise:Louise is an exceptional creative thinker, designer, and trend forecaster who is passionate about the footwear industry. Her drive to stay up-to-date with the latest innovations and fully comprehend the entire process of footwear design and development is truly inspiring. By collaborating with global trend agencies, brands, and factories, she can provide valuable insights that will shape the future of this dynamic industry. future of this dynamic industry.Connect with Caroline:Email her at louise@larcreative.comFollow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Download my Freelance Price List just for fashion (it's free!): sewheidi.com/price
GFA 477. Mike Michelini shares 21 years of e-commerce wisdom: from Wall Street to Amazon seller, discussing AI's impact on business, the freelancer-to-owner transition. The post Mindset, Journey, and Achievement – From Freelancer to Business Owner with John Ho appeared first on Global From Asia.
GFA 477. Mike Michelini shares 21 years of e-commerce wisdom: from Wall Street to Amazon seller, discussing AI's impact on business, the freelancer-to-owner transition. The post Mindset, Journey, and Achievement – From Freelancer to Business Owner with John Ho appeared first on Global From Asia.
Freelancers everywhere are feeling it. The ground beneath our feet is shifting, because AI isn't just changing how we write. It's also changing where value lives in our industry. In this episode, I break down what few people are talking about: your writing skills might still be world-class, but they're now solving the wrong problem. Much of what I discuss was inspired by the brilliant new book Reshuffle: Who Wins When AI Restacks the Knowledge Economy by Sangeet Paul Choudary. The constraint that once made your writing indispensable has moved. And if you don't move with it, you risk becoming the business equivalent of a brilliant typewriter repair shop in 1975. I dive deep into the real economic shift happening under AI's rise, revealing how to follow where value is migrating in your market before your competitors do. What You'll Learn Why AI hasn't destroyed demand for writers; it's just moved the constraint How to spot the new "value zones" in your market before others see them Why "average" AI content isn't your protection (and what is) The critical shift from creation to curation, and how to monetize your judgment How to reframe your positioning around risk, coordination, and confidence A simple 3-step method to identify where your next big opportunity lies Why your future role looks less like a writer and more like a producer or orchestrator Key Ideas and Takeaways 1. The Sommelier's Secret Your clients aren't drowning in a lack of content. They're drowning in options. AI made creation cheap, but it didn't make discernment easy. The most valuable freelancers now sell confidence and clarity, not just words. 2. Follow the Constraint The value constraint has shifted: From scarcity to risk (ensuring AI content doesn't harm the brand) From production to coordination (helping teams align their AI use) From creation to curation and orchestration (judgment, taste, and integration) 3. Be the Fugu Chef Like a sushi master trusted with a poisonous fish, your job is now about managing risk and trust. Clients will pay more for your judgment than your keyboard. 4. The Rick Rubin Lesson Think this is all outside your wheelhouse? I urge you to reconsider. You have more skill, wisdom, and capability than you think. Music producer Rick Rubin can't play a single musical instrument or read music. But he produces masterpieces. Your value is no longer in typing faster or crafting prettier sentences. It's in creating the conditions for the right ideas and messages to emerge. 5. Rebundling Your Business The future isn't about resisting AI. Instead, it's about rebundling your value around new constraints: From "I write blog posts" to "I ensure your content strategy doesn't become an AI dumpster fire." From "I write email campaigns" to "I orchestrate customer journeys across your entire AI-powered stack." From "I create copy" to "I protect your reputation while scaling your message." 6. Your 30-Day Constraint Hunt Start finding your next opportunity: List what clients pay you for today. Ask what happens when AI makes each thing 10x faster and cheaper. Find the break points, the new problems that emerge when your old services get automated. That's where your next business model lives. Action Steps Run a "Constraint Audit": Pick one client and map where things break when AI enters the picture. Test a Micro-Offer: Solve one small constraint (e.g., "brand safety audit for AI content"). Rework Your Positioning: Stop describing what you do. Start describing what you protect or enable. Experiment with New Framing: "I manage [CONSTRAINT] so you can [OUTCOME] without [RISK]." Memorable Soundbites "Your writing skills are now solving the wrong problem." "The constraint that used to keep your skills in demand is moving rapidly." "AI has removed that obstacle, that constraint." "This is the dumbest and most incapable these tools will ever be." "The constraint is rapidly moving from 'create content' to 'ensure content doesn't erode or destroy our reputation.'" "We're becoming the fugu chefs of content." "The break points, that's where you might just find your next business model." "You're not selling writing. You're selling judgment, coordination, and confidence in a world where writing is free but trust is expensive." "Stop asking 'What can't AI do yet?' Start asking 'What does AI break?' Because in that break, in that new constraint, that's where your next level lives."
This week, Jen teaches Pete her framework of six points of focus, to help grow your career towards your goals.Specifically, in this episode Jen and Pete talk about focus in relationship to:Artistry and Inspiration.Industry Knowledge.Marketing.Mindset.Network Building.Skill and Craft.To hear all episodes and read full transcripts, visit The Long and The Short Of It website: https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/.You can subscribe to our Box O' Goodies here (https://thelongandtheshortpodcast.com/) and receive a weekly email full of book and podcast recommendations, quotes, videos, and other interesting things that Jen and Pete are noodling on. To get in touch, send an email to: hello@thelongandtheshortpodcast.com.Learn more about Pete's work here (https://humanperiscope.com/) and Jen's work here (https://jenwaldman.com/).
Which business model should you start? Get Andrew's cheat sheet with his full ranking and real profit margins here: https://clickhubspot.com/dge Episode 762: What's the best business to start in 2026? Agencies, SaaS, Restaurants, Real Estate, Marketplaces. Angel Investing; Andrew Wilkinson has played every game. He built 38 companies, lost $10 million, and still ended up with a $300 million portfolio. This week, @shaanpuri spoke with him about: the best and worst business models to win in 2026 starting Tiny with just $4M (now $250M) the truth behind the Twitter hate on Tiny's stock why buying companies beats building them His is not a redemption story. It is the unapologetic reality of building, failing, and getting back up. — Show Notes: (0:00) Intro (3:06) MLM (4:28) Freelancer (5:07) Agency (9:33) SaaS (14:48) Restaurant (17:03) Marketplace (19:43) Short Term Rentals (20:52) Content Creator (23:06) Real Estate (26:16) Fund Management (35:21) Local Services (36:36) Investing (38:12) Sweaty Startup (43:15) Tiny stock performance (52:20) The courage to be disliked (1:10:21) Inputs v outputs — Links: • Tiny - https://tiny.com/ • Never Enough - https://www.neverenough.com/ • Serato - https://serato.com/ • Rekordbox - https://rekordbox.com • Pershing Square Holdings - https://pershingsquareholdings.com/ • Invest Like The Best - https://www.youtube.com/@ILTB_Podcast • The Courage To Be Disliked - https://tinyurl.com/5fk3sa79 — Check Out Shaan's Stuff: • Shaan's weekly email - https://www.shaanpuri.com • Visit https://www.somewhere.com/mfm to hire worldwide talent like Shaan and get $500 off for being an MFM listener. Hire developers, assistants, marketing pros, sales teams and more for 80% less than US equivalents. • Mercury - Need a bank for your company? Go check out Mercury (mercury.com). Shaan uses it for all of his companies! Mercury is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured bank. Banking services provided by Choice Financial Group, Column, N.A., and Evolve Bank & Trust, Members FDIC — Check Out Sam's Stuff: • Hampton - https://www.joinhampton.com/ • Ideation Bootcamp - https://www.ideationbootcamp.co/ • Copy That - https://copythat.com • Hampton Wealth Survey - https://joinhampton.com/wealth • Sam's List - http://samslist.co/ My First Million is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by HubSpot Media // Production by Arie Desormeaux // Editing by Ezra Bakker Trupiano //