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The Start Out Savvy Podcast
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The Start Out Savvy Podcast

Author: Kirsten Russell

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You’re running a business , not a charity.
So let’s make sure it actually pays you like one.

The Start Out Savvy Podcast is for service-based women who are ready to feel confident with their money, charge properly for their work, and run a business that supports their life.
Hosted by accountant and money mentor Kirsten Russell, this is straight-talking advice on cash flow, pricing, paying yourself, and building real wealth,without hustle culture or fluffy nonsense.
Smart money.
Clear decisions.
Savvy AF growth.

71 Episodes
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Confidence isn’t something you download or template.In this episode, we’re talking about confidence.Where it actually comes from and why it’s built through action, repetition, and trust, not motivation or mindset hacks.We’ll cover how confidence grows in business, why waiting to “feel ready” keeps you stuck, and how doing the work changes how you show up. If you want real, grounded confidence that lasts, this is how it's done.Come stalk us on the IG ⁠here⁠Ready for a new accountant? Book a free chat ⁠here⁠
Trying to run a business without clarity is like driving in the fog.In this episode, we’re talking about clarity.Knowing where you’re going, why you’re going there, and how to make decisions without constantly second-guessing yourself. Foggy thinking leads to off-road detours.We’ll cover how lack of clarity shows up in money, pricing, and planning, and why everything feels easier once the fog lifts. If you want direction instead of drift in 2026 , this episode will hit home.Come stalk us on the IG ⁠here⁠Ready for a new accountant? Book a free chat ⁠here⁠
Profit looks good on paper. Cash flow keeps the car running!In this episode, we’re unpacking what cash flow actually is, why it’s one of the most important parts of your business, and how to tighten it up without micromanaging every dollar.We’ll cover common cash flow blind spots, why income alone doesn’t equal stability, and the small shifts that create more control and ease. If you want your business to feel calmer and more predictable, start here.Come stalk us on the IG ⁠here⁠Ready for a new accountant? Book a free chat ⁠here⁠
You don’t stumble into mastery , you train for it.In this episode, we’re talking about mastery and why running a business is more like training for an Olympic event than winging it as you go. Peak performance doesn’t happen by accident.We’ll cover why consistency beats intensity, how skill-building compounds over time, and why treating your business like something you train for changes everything. If you want to operate at a higher level, this is how you do itCome stalk us on the IG ⁠here⁠Ready for a new accountant? Book a free chat ⁠here⁠
Mindset isn’t about meditating for hours or thinking positive thoughts.In this episode, we’re breaking down what mindset actually is in business, why it matters, and how it shows up in the decisions you make every day. No crystals. No manifesting marathons. Just practical awareness.We’ll cover how mindset affects money, pricing, and growth, and why shifting the way you think doesn’t require a total personality overhaul. If you want better results without the woo, this one’s for you.Come stalk us on the IG hereReady for a new accountant? Book a free chat here
Money is the fuel that keeps your business running.In this episode, Kirsten is talking about money in your business: how it comes in, how it flows out, and why it’s the thing that keeps your business vehicle running smoothly. When the fuel system’s off, everything starts to feel harder than it needs to.She'll cover how money really moves through your business, where it quietly disappears, and why understanding this changes how you make decisions. If you want your business to run smoothly instead of spluttering, this is where it starts.Come stalk us on IG hereNeed a new accountant? Book a free chat here
In this episode, I’m coming to you from Vietnam, where I’ve been living for the past six weeks. I’m sharing what life has really been like here — the daily rhythm, the cultural shifts, and how this new chapter compares to life back in New Zealand. One of the biggest surprises? Tune in to find out.KirstenCome follow the travel IG account hereNeed a new accountant? Then stalk us here
In this week's episode, Kirsten is sharing what she hasn't been doing in business (she's been naughty!) and what has happened instead.Maybe this will inspire you to do the sameA bit of a BTS episode today, all the way from VietnamKirstenDon't forget to come follow us on IG⁠ here⁠Want to check out Ivorey (literally THE best all -in-one platform? Take a look ⁠here
Ever felt guilty for saying no? Or caught yourself bending over backwards for a client who barely pays on time?Or dropped your prices before sending an invoice?In this episode, we’re diving deep into the uncomfortable truth: setting boundaries is hard—but not having them? That’s a fast track to burnout, stress, and clients who treat your business like a buffet and come and go as they please.I’m sharing what really happens when you avoid boundaries in business (hint: it’s not cute), why people-pleasing is costing you money, and how to start backing yourself like the powerhouse you are. Whether it’s pricing, time, energy, or expectations—this one’s your wake-up call. If you’re ready to stop over giving and start owning your value, this episode is for you.Kirsten
AI is EVERYWHERE right now.Getting bigger and louder by the day it seems.In this episode Kirsten is sharing her props and pitfalls and things to watch for when it comes to using AI (or not!) in business.Packed full of tips you won't want to miss this oneKirstenWe hang out on Instagram ⁠here⁠, don't forget to come follow us.
Who doesn't love a bit of a BTS peak into how people run their businesses?This week, Kirsten is breaking down how the money flows in her business.From invoicing, bank account set up, expenses and more!A must listen episode if you are a service based business and want to know some simple and sweet changes you can make in your business to blow it all the way up.KirstenDon't forget to come follow us on IG hereWant to check out Ivorey? Take a look here
In this no-fluff, no BS episode, we cut through the crap, ditch outdated advice, and spill the tea on what actually works when it comes to growing a service-based business on Instagram — even if you’ve only got 2 hours a week, hate dancing, or never touch trending audioWhether you’re stuck in a content rut, are super confused when it comes to your socials or just want a smarter way to show up, this episode is your Instagram reset button.In this episode, we cover:The Instagram “strategies” you can skip entirely in 2025What types of content waste your time (and what’s actually worth it)How to make the most of 2 hours a week on the ‘gramReels, carousels, static posts — which to use, when, and whyHow to use Stories, Posts & Reels strategically — not just randomlyCan you grow without dancing or using trending audio? (Spoiler: YES)What “growth” really means for small businesses on InstagramCan educational content alone grow your account?How to batch and plan content without making it your second jobWhat you actually need to know about the algorithm in 2025How to boost engagement without cheesy caption questionsThe truth about replying to every comment and DMBuilding a community vibe without living onlineIf we were starting from scratch, here’s what we’d do differentlyThe most underrated Instagram feature nobody’s talking aboutThis episode is perfect for: service-based biz owners,, and anyone ready to show up with purpose (not pressure) and do it in an authentic way.Hope you enjoy!KirstenYou can find Sarah here:Instagram WebsiteElevated Ambition Podcast
Ever dreamt of ditching the cold and running your biz from a sun-soaked beach in Southeast Asia? In this behind-the-scenes episode, I’m sharing the real numbers, the planning process, and the mindset shifts that make our winter escape from New Zealand not just a fantasy — but a smart, intentional move that happens EVERY yearI break down:The actual costs — flights, accommodation, visas, and all the little extrasHow we plan our trips from year to yearWhether you’re after a mini escape, a future relocation, or just want the inspo to make bold lifestyle moves to kickstart your Rich Life Era — this one’s for you.Press play and start mapping out your own version of freedom and using your business to do itUseful links:Sky ScannerWise - Travel AccountAgodaIf you have any questions or want help planning your own winter relocation, flick me a DM on Instagram, its where I hang out.Follow us here
In this episode, Kirsten is sharing her own personal money system she has in place which works with her spender money personality not against it.You'll find out where the money goes and where you can start to do the same.I hope you find inspiration in this episode to build a system of your own KirstenDon't forget to come follow us on Instagram ⁠here
This is a episode for all you service based businesses out there!We are talking money mindset (eg thoughts, actions and habits!) How what you think, feel and do when it comes to money is impacting your business and ultimately your ability to live your Rich Life Era.And afterall, isn't that what we are here for?Hit play and join Kirsten for another episode where she drops her money making magic tips!Don't forget to come follow us on Instagram here
Ever catch yourself at 11 PM still answering emails thinking 'there has to be a better way'? Well, spoiler alert - there is! Today Kirsten is diving into how to make AI your business bestie without losing your human touch. Because let's be honest, you didn't start your business to become a full-time email manageFind out where you are spending your time with our free Rich Life Audit Checklist here The AI tools we are currently using:Fyxer AI - for email automationSintra AI - for help with content and streamlining processes - use our referral code VBGD8 to get one additional month free.Don't forget to come follow us on Instagram too - you'll find us here
Want to know what really grinds Kirsten's gears?Its something that when you become aware of it, you really can't unsee and it will change the trajectory of your business.Hit play and lets go!KirstenDon't forget to come and follow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠, it's where we share all the tea.
This is one of the most common questions I get: “I need more clients and sales—how do I make that happen?”The good news? There are simple, proven strategies to bring in more business—without feeling like you have to shout into the void or hustle 24/7. Find out what they are and what you can do in this weeks episode.Don't forget to share this episode with a friend, hit the follow button or even better I would LOVE it if you could share this on your social mediaKirstenDon't forget to come and follow us on Instagram here, it's where we share all the tea.
Happy New Year!!What is she on about I hear you say...It's the start of a new financial year here in New Zealand, so before you go and burn it all to the ground, do a 360 pivot or launch something new, Kirsten is sharing a simple process to find out what actually worked last year, what didn't and what to focus on this year.Before you start chasing new goals, let’s get clear on what actually worked last year—so you can build a smarter, more profitable business this financial yearGrab a pen and paper, put your headphones in and lets make this New Year the best yet.KirstenDon't forget to come follow us on Instagram here, it's where we hang out the most
OMG thank you so much for hitting play on this episode! You rock!This week, Kirsten is breaking down the difference between sales, revenue & income.Not all money coming in is created equal—let’s break down sales, revenue, and income so you can truly understand your business money, the flow and of course some simple tips on how to start to interpret your own numbers.Don't forget to come follow us on Instagram here, its where you get BTS chats, tips and more!
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