Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

In this powerful episode, host Monica welcomes financial expert and Young Money podcast host Tracie Bissett to talk about one of the most stressful aspects of entrepreneurship, cash flow. With real talk and clear advice, this episode uncovers the common money mistakes entrepreneurs make, how to fix them, and why understanding your numbers can literally save your business. Whether you're in your first few months or pushing toward seven years or seven figures, this is the money conversation you didn't know you needed.Episode Quote: Never take your eyes off the cash flow because it's the lifeblood of business. ~ Richard Branson.Episode Sponsor: Kickstart Your Business ProgramWhat you will learn in this episode:How to stop feeling confused when looking at your P&LHow to manage your cash flow with confidence—not fearHow to avoid the most common financial mistakes entrepreneurs makeHow to start paying yourself without guilt or guessworkHow to use pricing strategy to improve your bottom lineHelpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own BossJoin the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠Ways to reach Monica:Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcastEmail: monica@monicaallen.com

In this milestone episode, Monica reflects on 20 transformative years of entrepreneurship since walking away from her corporate job. She shares the 11 most powerful lessons she's learned growing her business from $700 to seven figures. From strategic exits to learning when to pivot, these takeaways aren't just motivational—they're tactical. Whether you're just starting or deep into your journey, Monica’s hard-earned wisdom will help you avoid common mistakes and build a business that works for you. Get ready to be inspired and better equipped to take bold, smart steps forward.Episode Quote: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~ Eleanor RooseveltWhat You Will Learn in This Episode:How to plan your leap from corporate to entrepreneurshipHow to identify and stick to your core competencyHow to set up systems that set you freeHow to manage your business using real numbers, not feelingsHow to simplify and scale through small changesHow to pivot strategically without panickingHow to build a business that fits your life, not the other way aroundEpisode Sponsor: Zeus' ClosetGrab the Business Package, Use code BOSS20 to save 20% off.Get the Level Up Living newsletterSubscribe so you never miss an episode, and if this inspired you, leave a review—it helps more bosses like you find the show!

We’re officially halfway through the year and if your goals feel distant, forgotten, or buried under everyday demands, this episode is your reset button.In this throwback episode, Monica walks you through a simple but powerful mid-year check-in. You’ll learn how to reflect on the past six months, reassess what still matters, and recommit with purpose using systems and habits—not just wishful thinking. Inspired by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, this conversation will help you take meaningful action to end the year strong.Grab a notebook—or open that notes app—and let’s walk through this together.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:A simple 3-step process to review, celebrate, and reframe your goalsWhy writing the vision isn’t enough (and what to do next)The real reason some people reach their goals while others don’tHow systems and habits drive progress more than motivation ever willA mindset shift that can reignite your drive for the rest of 2025Episode Sponsor -  Zeus' Closet Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own BossHelpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own BossJoin the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠Ways to reach Monica:Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcastEmail: monica@monicaallen.com

In this episode of Monica chats with Trish Skelfo, a leading franchise broker who built her business from zero to seven figures—starting with just $1,500 and a borrowed garage room. Trish shares how one big risk (and one small ad) changed her life, and how her cutting-edge AI platform is helping others find the right franchise fit—without wasting time or money. Her story is proof that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to own a business…you just need the right roadmap and support.Episode Quote: The more people you help become successful, the more successful you become. ~ Steve HarveyReach Trish: Trish Scelfo - CEO Trish@TheFranchiseCollective.com540-538-7466 M  Schedule a CallTheFranchiseCollective.comTalk to Trish's clone: Franchise Discount MarketplaceQuestions answered:​Why should you consider franchising instead of starting from scratch?​What are the biggest red flags in a franchise opportunity?​How long does it take to buy and launch a franchise?​What role does a franchise broker play—and how do you choose one?​How can you protect yourself when making a six-figure business decision?Ready to skip the struggle and find your next move? Listen now, subscribe, and don’t forget to leave a review to support the show and help other aspiring entrepreneurs find it!Save on Team Gear: https://zeuscloset.com/products/solopreneur-package?_pos=1&_psq=business-pac&_ss=e&_v=1.0Email with questions: shop@zeuscloset.com

When is the right time to take a stand—and when is silence the smarter move? In this thought-provoking episode, Monica shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur navigating the tricky intersection of politics, personal beliefs, and business strategy. With examples from her own business and high-profile brands like Tesla and Target, she breaks down the importance of staying true to your values without compromising your brand. If you’ve ever wondered whether your opinions belong in your business, this episode will help you find clarity and confidence in your approach.Episode Quote: The mixing of politics and business not only is detrimental to politics, as is frequently observed, but even much more so to business. ~ Ludwig von MisesQuestions answered:Should you talk about politics in your business?What’s the risk of aligning your business with your personal views?When is it okay—or necessary—to speak out?How do you handle customer backlash or brand fallout?What questions should you ask before making a public statement?Listen to this episode now to gain the tools and insight you need to protect your brand and lead with purpose. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help more entrepreneurs find their way to success!Get the Level Up Living Newsletter⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠⁠Get your⁠⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠⁠Ways to reach Monica:Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcastEmail: monica@monicaallen.com

In this episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica welcomes back entrepreneur, author, and AI strategist Ethan King to unpack what’s currently happening in the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence (AI). From game-changing updates in image and voice tech to the real secret weapon behind AI success...this conversation is packed with tools and truths every business owner should hear. Whether you're overwhelmed by AI or overusing it, Ethan offers a powerful mindset shift and practical advice to help you stay relevant, competitive, and real. AI is evolving fast, but how you use it matters even more, and this podcast is here to help you keep up. Episode Quote: At the end of the day, the real AI is your authentic influence and when you fuse that together with Artificial intelligence, that’s how you win. ~ Ethan KingQuestions answered:What are the latest AI tools small businesses should know about in 2025?Can AI-generated images really be used for marketing?How do new AI phone systems differ from traditional automated menus?Is it worth paying for the Pro version of ChatGPT?What’s the best way to start using AI without losing your personal touch?Ready to bring AI into your business the smart way?Listen now, subscribe to the show, and leave a review. Don’t forget to connect with Monica on Instagram @becomeyourownbosspodcast to share how YOU are using AI in your business or life.Click here⁠⁠ to get the Level Up Living Newsletter. ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠Ways to reach Monica:Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcastEmail: monica@monicaallen.com

In this episode, we’re getting real about the pressure to grow, hustle, and perform according to everyone else’s expectations. Whether it’s social media trends, industry “shoulds,” or well-meaning friends giving unsolicited advice—there’s always noise about what your business should look like.But here’s the truth: your business should work for you.Monica shares candid stories—from her own journey, her conversation with entrepreneur Tracy Nicole, to examples from fellow business owners who’ve chosen peace over pressure. You’ll hear why defining success on your own terms isn’t just okay—it’s essential. Because burnout isn’t the badge of honor, and bigger isn’t always better.This episode is your reminder to build with intention, not just ambition. Let’s talk boundaries, alignment, and what it really means to design a business that supports your life—not swallows it whole.Listen in and ask yourself:Are you playing by your rules… or someone else’s?Episode Quote: Just do what works for you, because there will always be someone who thinks differently. – Michelle ObamaClick here to get the Level Up Living Newsletter.

What if the dream you’ve been avoiding is the one that could change everything?In this episode, Monica reflects on seven powerful lessons sparked by her recent interview with Tracy Nicole of Tracy Nicole Clothing. If you've been feeling stuck, uncertain, or unfulfilled, this is your reminder that the dream won’t chase itself—and life won't wait forever. Monica gets personal about support systems, past job experiences, industry research, and what to do when your business no longer fills your cup. From brand-building to choosing courage over comfort, this episode is packed with real-talk moments to push you forward.Episode Quote: Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase. ~ Martin Luther King Jr.Join the Level Up Living NewsletterQuestions answered:Who should be in your support circle as an entrepreneur?What are the dangers of only studying what works in your industry?How can “random” jobs prepare you for entrepreneurship?Why is collaboration more powerful than competition?What brand decisions matter most early on?How can you realign your business to bring back joy?What does it look like to take the first step in faith?Listen to this episode of Become Your Own Boss, subscribe so you never miss an insight, and leave a review to let Monica know what spoke to you most. Know someone who’s sitting on a dream? Share this episode with them today.

In this inspiring episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica sits down with Tracy Nicole—a powerhouse fashion designer, author, and philanthropist whose story will challenge everything you thought you needed to succeed. From occupational therapy to building a national fashion brand, Tracy shares how purpose, preparation, and the courage to begin transformed her life and business. Raised by a single mother, diagnosed with breast cancer, and once afraid to start her own line, Tracy reveals how she created a clothing brand that heals, empowers, and redefines what success looks like. You won’t just hear a fashion story—you’ll hear a blueprint for chasing your calling with grit and grace.Episode Quote: Go after your dream, no matter how unattainable others think it is. ~UnknownGuest info:Tracy Nicole ClothingCreated by: @tracynicoleatlLife should be SIMPLE @simplebytracy @tracynicolefoundation (giving back)What you will learn in this episode:How to start a brand without investors or loansHow to use pop-ups and grassroots marketing to grow your audienceHow to find your business lane by studying what others missHow to build a fashion business that’s both profitable and purposefulHow to balance motherhood, entrepreneurship, and mental clarityQuestions answered:What’s the first thing Tracy studied to avoid fashion business failure?How did she fund her first retail store without outside capital?What impact did breast cancer have on her designs and business direction?Why did she choose not to pursue big department store orders?How does Tracy define legacy and success now?Listen now to hear a story of reinvention, resilience, and believing in your own dream.Subscribe to Become Your Own Boss wherever you listen to podcasts, and leave a review if this episode inspired you.

What does five years of podcasting teach you about life, business, and legacy?In this powerful season opener, Monica marks the 5-year anniversary of Become Your Own Boss with five timeless lessons that will resonate deeply with entrepreneurs at any stage. From launching in a global shutdown to reaching listeners across the world, Monica opens up about the moments of doubt, the push for perfection, and the quiet strength in showing up even when no one seems to notice. This episode isn’t just about podcasting—it’s about what happens when you decide to keep going, even when it’s hard.Episode Quote: Your legacy is every life you’ve touched. ~Maya AngelouWhat you will learn in this episode:How to stay consistent even when inspiration is lowHow to start sharing your voice before it feels readyHow to avoid the perfection trap and actually launchHow to keep going when feedback and applause are missingHow to make your content and business outlive youHow to reuse and repurpose your content for bigger impactQuestions answered:What should you do when you feel like quitting your business?How do you find your voice as a content creator or entrepreneur?Why is consistency more powerful than perfection?How can your work serve people even after you're gone?What does building a real legacy actually look like?Sign up for the ⁠Level Up Living Newsletter⁠Ready to celebrate five years of insight, inspiration, and impact? Hit play on this milestone episode, subscribe to the podcast, and don’t forget to leave a review. Your support keeps this mission alive—and it might just inspire the next boss in the making.

Are you truly present when others speak—or just waiting for your turn?In this powerful solo episode, Monica invites listeners to rediscover the lost art of meaningful conversation. Sparked by a simple chat with her daughter, Monica explores how curiosity, presence, and better questions can strengthen our personal and professional relationships. Whether you’re building a brand or bonding with your family, the way you engage with others matters. And in today’s distracted world, the ability to truly connect may be your greatest superpower. Monica also shares a simple challenge that can transform your week—and your connections.Episode Quote: Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply. ~Stephen R. CoveyWhat you will learn in this episode:How to become a better listener in a noisy worldHow to ask questions that invite real connectionHow to use curiosity to build stronger customer relationshipsHow to make your team feel truly heardHow to be present at home without sacrificing your business goalsQuestions answered:Why do so many conversations feel one-sided?How can you get people to open up to you?What kinds of questions lead to better dialogue?How does intentional conversation impact your business?What’s a simple way to practice presence with your family?Tune in now to rethink how you connect—at work, at home, and everywhere in between. Don't forget to subscribe, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review if the show has inspired or helped you in your business journey.

In this episode Monica unpacks the very real impact of newly announced tariffs (and the pause) —and what you, as a business owner, can do to protect your bottom line. This isn’t a panic moment; it’s a preparation moment. Monica walks you through the strategic decisions she’s making at Zeus’ Closet and challenges you to rethink your supply chain, pricing, and even your revenue streams. From small tweaks to big ideas, this episode is about thinking smart, staying flexible, and refusing to go down without a fight.Episode Quote: The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it and join the dance. ~ Alan W. WattsQuestions answered:What are tariffs, and how do they impact small businesses?What can you do if your products are considered discretionary?How can you add new revenue without increasing physical inventory?Why should you keep checking in with your suppliers right now?What does it mean to “sell your sawdust” in business?Tune in to this timely and empowering episode to future-proof your business. Don’t forget to subscribe, share with a fellow entrepreneur, and leave a review if this helped you think more strategically.

In this eye-opening episode, Monica speaks directly to the solo entrepreneurs, the sole proprietors, and the self-made bosses making it happen every single day. If your income stops the moment you do, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. Monica unpacks the power of income diversification, practical automations, and business protections that give you the freedom to rest without guilt. From digital products to disability insurance, she’s breaking down exactly how to stop being the bottleneck in your business and start being the boss with a plan.Episode Quote: "A wise person prepares for the storm while it’s still sunny." ~UnknownWhat you will learn in this episode:How to protect your income when you are the businessHow to create digital products that make money while you restHow to automate repetitive tasks to save timeHow to prepare your business for emergencies before they happenHow to choose the right insurance to safeguard your livelihoodHow to delegate without hiring a full-time teamQuestions Answered:What’s the biggest risk of being a solo business owner?How can you start earning money without always being present?What types of insurance should solo entrepreneurs seriously consider?How can you document your processes to make your business run without you?What’s the easiest way to start delegating on a budget?Ready to build a business that doesn’t collapse when life gets messy? Listen now, subscribe to Become Your Own Boss, and don’t forget to leave a review. It’s time to level up and build a business that supports you, not just the other way around.

In this episode Monica breaks down the book Hug Your Haters by Jay Baer and shares the mindset shift that transformed how she handles customer complaints. Once extremely bothered by negative reviews, Monica now sees them as one of the most powerful tools for growth. Through personal stories and lessons from the book, she explains why how you respond to unhappy customers could become your strongest marketing tool—and the secret to standing out in a crowded market. If you’ve ever taken feedback personally, this episode is for you.Episode Quote: A customer complaint is a gift. Take the perspective that your customers complain because they want to help your business. Otherwise, they would say nothing and walk away, intent on never returning. ~Bill QuisengGet the Level Up Living Newsletter. Questions answered:How should you respond when a customer leaves a bad review?What makes complaints a valuable source of data?Why is customer service your biggest competitive advantage?When should you update your processes based on feedback?How can responding publicly to complaints help your brand?Listen now to hear how changing your mindset around feedback could change your whole business. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a five-star review if this episode resonated with you!

In this episode Monica shares the sales strategies that have fueled her multi-million dollar business—and they might not be what you expect. With just three simple words—follow-up, feedback, and friendship—you’ll learn how to approach sales in a way that feels authentic, builds trust, and ultimately drives revenue. This episode is a must-listen if you're ready to stop pitching and start connecting in ways that actually close deals. Monica unpacks real-life examples and proven techniques to help you stand out, stay top of mind, and serve your customers better.Episode Quote: Approach each customer with the idea of helping him or her solve a problem or achieve a goal, not selling a product or service. ~Brian TracySign up for the First Boss Collective Zoom Party.What you will learn in this episode:How to follow up without being annoyingHow to turn customer feedback into business growthHow to build meaningful client relationships that lead to repeat salesHow to ask the right questions to better understand your customersHow to network with intention and get more referralsDon’t miss this chance to level up your sales game and Become Your Own Boss.

Are you feeling overwhelmed running your business solo or with a small team? You’re not alone. Many solopreneurs and small business owners struggle to juggle marketing, sales, customer service, and operations—all while actually doing the work they get paid for. The truth is, you can’t do it all. But the good news? You don’t have to. In this episode, Monica shares practical strategies to streamline your workload, boost your sales, and work smarter, not harder. Learn how automation, delegation, and prioritization can help you regain control of your time and business.Episode Quote: You can do anything, but not everything. ~David AllenQuestions Answered in This Episode:What’s the biggest challenge solopreneurs face when growing a business?What tools can help automate sales and customer service?How can you create systems to save time and reduce stress?When is the right time to delegate, and what tasks should you outsource?How can you shift to a sales-first mindset without neglecting other parts of your business?Ready to take control of your business without burning out? Listen now! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with another entrepreneur who needs it. Let’s level up together!

Hiring the right people can make or break your business, yet so many entrepreneurs rush the process—only to regret it later. In this episode, Monica shares hard-earned lessons from over two decades of hiring experience. From bad hires that created chaos to team members who became family, she reveals what really works when it comes to finding the right people. Learn why slowing down is the key to hiring success, how to ask better interview questions, and the surprising power of referrals.Episode Quote: Hiring the right people takes time, the right questions and a healthy dose of curiosity. ~Richard BransonWhat you will learn in this episode:How to avoid the biggest hiring mistake entrepreneurs makeHow to use behavioral interview questions to find the best candidatesHow to create a hiring process that saves you time and stressHow to use referrals to find reliable employeesHow to listen to your gut when making hiring decisionsFinding the right team members doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Tune in to learn how to hire smarter, build a strong team, and set your business up for success! Get the Level Up Living NewsletterJoin me on a Boss Collective Zoom PartyDon't forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur.

Bringing on a new team member is exciting, but are you setting them (and your business) up for long-term success? In this episode, Monica sits down with strategic advisor and entrepreneur TJ Slattery to discuss the often-overlooked but critical process of onboarding. TJ shares insights from his experience running a brewery to helping small businesses scale effectively through Crow’s Nest Consulting. Learn why onboarding is more than just paperwork and how a clear, structured approach can increase employee retention and engagement. If you’re hiring or plan to in the future, this episode is a must-listen.Episode Quote: Each new employee brings with them potential to achieve and succeed. To lose the energy of a new hire thorough poor onboarding is an opportunity lost. ~Sarah WetzelQuestions answered: What are the key elements of an effective onboarding process? How can onboarding improve employee retention? What common onboarding mistakes do small business owners make? Should onboarding be different for small businesses vs. large corporations? What simple changes can entrepreneurs make today to improve onboarding?Join the Zoom Boss Up CollectiveGuest Info: TJ Slattery, MBACrowsnest Consulting, LLC⁠tj@crowsnestmindset.com⁠(303) 515-0942⁠crowsnestmindset.com⁠Don't miss this conversation that could change the way you hire and retain your team. Listen now, subscribe, and leave a review.

Last week, Monica shared key strategies that helped scale her business, but there was one powerful tool she left out—email marketing. This one strategy changed everything. Email isn’t just about sending messages; it’s about building deeper relationships, boosting sales, and keeping your brand top of mind. In this episode, Monica shares how email marketing transformed her business, why automation is an amazing transformative tool, and how you can use it to create consistent revenue.Epsiode Quote: Email has an ability many channels don’t; creating valuable personal touches - at scale. ~David Newman⁠Link to Email Marketing Platform downloadVisit monicaallen.com to subscribe to the Level Up Living newsletterQuestions answered in this episode:Why is email marketing still one of the most effective strategies?What are the best email marketing tools for small businesses?How can automation help you build customer relationships?Email marketing changed Monica’s business—now it’s your turn! Tune in, take notes, and start using email to grow your brand today. Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur.

How do you scale a business without burning out or breaking the bank? In this episode, Monica shares 11 proven strategies that helped her grow her business from $700 to seven figures—without investor funding. From starting with an MVP to diversifying revenue streams and building strong systems, these principles can help you grow sustainably. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, this episode gives you the mindset, strategies, and real-world examples to help you scale smarter.Episode Quote: You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. ~Jim RohnQuestions Answered: What is the best way to test a new business idea? How can social media help scale a business? What are some effective ways to add revenue streams? Why is branding so important for long-term success? How do you build a business that can run without you?Scaling a business isn’t just about making more money—it’s about creating impact and sustainability. Tune in now to learn how to set your business up for long-term success! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur.Don't forget to sign up for https://www.monicaallen.com/description-of-zoom-partybosshttps://www.monicaallen.com/description-of-zoom-partyboss so you can get information on our first Zoom Party that will be turned into an episode.