Thriving Through

In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, host AJ Riedel sits down with consultant and entrepreneur Leo Sevigny to explore the realities of launching (and relaunching) a consulting business.Leo shares his journey from early success after publishing The Personal Vision Workbook to building his consulting practice, stepping away, and then restarting nearly 20 years later with a completely different mindset. The conversation dives deep into what it really takes to build a sustainable consulting practice from overcoming imposter syndrome to finding clients, setting boundaries, and creating meaningful conversations instead of “selling.”If you're starting a consulting business, transitioning out of corporate, or trying to build momentum with your independent practice, this episode is packed with practical insights and honest reflections.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why saying “yes to everything” can hurt your consulting careerThe biggest mindset shift from employee to independent consultantHow to build a consulting pipeline using existing relationshipsWhy most consultants overthink websites instead of talking to clientsThe role of confidence, curiosity, and genuine conversation in winning workHow Leo structures his day to avoid “procrasti-working”Why boutique consultants can thrive in uncertain economic timesHow AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude can become creative partners for consultantsConnect with Leo Sevigny:🌐 https://www.linkedin.com/in/leosevigny/ About the PodcastThe Thriving Through Podcast with AJ Riedel shares conversations with experienced consultants and business leaders about building resilient, successful consulting practices.👍 If you found this conversation helpful, like, subscribe, and share to support more insights for consultants and independent professionals.#ConsultingBusiness #IndependentConsultant #ConsultingCareer #BoutiqueConsulting #Entrepreneurship

In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, AJ speaks with Nicole Sithithavorn, founder of YC Partners, about her journey from corporate CFO to building a successful fractional CFO consulting firm.Nicole shares the real story behind launching a consulting business including the early challenges of networking as an introvert, figuring out how to generate leads, and discovering the power of outbound email marketing that eventually drove most of her client growth.She explains how her firm grew from a solo consulting idea into a 7-person team, why fractional CFO services are becoming essential for growing businesses, and the systems she built to create strong client relationships and scalable growth.Nicole also discusses marketing strategies like targeted outbound email, LinkedIn prospecting, newsletters, and networking, and offers valuable advice for consultants on choosing the right rooms, refining messaging, and building a sustainable pipeline of clients.Whether you're a consultant, entrepreneur, CFO, or business owner looking to scale, this episode offers practical insights into business development, consulting growth, and strategic finance leadership.Topics Covered:Fractional CFO servicesStarting a consulting businessOutbound email marketing for B2BBuilding a consulting teamLead nurturing and client relationshipsStrategic finance leadershipNetworking for consultantsScaling a professional services firmConnect with Nicole Sithithavorn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemsith/Subscribe for more conversations with leaders who are building meaningful careers and thriving through challenges.#FractionalCFO #ConsultingBusiness #Entrepreneurship #B2BMarketing #BusinessGrowth #PodcastInterview #ThrivingThrough

What happens when a numbers-loving entrepreneur goes from $40,000 in credit card debt to helping solopreneurs master their finances?In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, Nancy Ward shares her powerful journey from financial struggle to becoming a self-employed financial coach helping solopreneurs untangle personal and business finances.Nancy explains why many consultants and small business owners don’t actually know if they’re making money until the end of the year and how simple financial systems can completely change that.If you're a consultant, freelancer, coach, or solopreneur, this conversation will help you understand how to separate business and personal money, create clarity in your finances, and remove the shame around not knowing “money language.”✨ In this episode you’ll learn:• How Nancy paid off $40K in credit card debt• Why many solopreneurs mix personal and business finances• Simple financial systems every consultant should set up• The mindset shift that removes shame around money• Why tracking numbers monthly is critical for business success• The power of a strong elevator pitch for entrepreneursNancy also shares how she pivoted from consumer financial coaching to helping solopreneurs build clear financial systems that make their businesses sustainable.Whether you’re starting your consulting journey or already running a solo business, this episode will help you gain clarity, confidence, and control over your finances.🔗 Connect with Nancy WardWebsite: https://weeklydebtplan.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyward1/🎙️ About the PodcastThriving Through Podcast brings conversations with entrepreneurs, consultants, and thought leaders who share real experiences, strategies, and insights to help you grow your business and life.

What if losing your biggest revenue source could teach you the most valuable lesson about building a sustainable consulting business? Discover the 10-project pipeline strategy that keeps self-employed consultants from ever facing an empty calendar again.In this episode, host AJ Riedel talks to Bob Greene, Principal Consultant of RCG Workgroup specializing in business development and leadership strategy. Bob brings a unique neuroscience-based approach to sales training and leadership development, and he's currently rebuilding his practice after being hit hard by the government shutdown.Why You Should Listen to This EpisodeIf you're struggling with feast-or-famine cycles, an empty pipeline, or recovering from a major business setback, this conversation will change how you think about consulting business development. Bob shares the exact systems he uses to maintain consistent revenue, including his 10-project pipeline methodology that ensures he always has work in various stages of development. Whether you're building your practice from scratch or rebuilding after disruption, Bob's strategic approach to pipeline management, pricing, and team building offers immediately actionable insights for creating a more predictable and profitable consulting business.What You'll Learn in This Episode• [The 10-Project Pipeline Strategy] How to maintain a consistent flow of consulting work by always keeping 10 projects in various stages from prospect to signed contract, ensuring you never face an empty calendar or desperate acceptance of low-paying work.• [Why Traditional Training Fails] The three critical reasons training doesn't create lasting change in organizations and how understanding the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve can transform your consulting approach and ROI for clients.• [Building Revenue Through Workgroups] How to expand your consulting capacity and revenue potential by building a network of specialized experts you can bring in on contract, allowing you to serve 5 clients simultaneously without burnout.• [The Upwork Strategy for Building Credibility] A counterintuitive approach to using freelance platforms to test your market value, build a portfolio of 5-star reviews, and systematically increase your rates from $25 to premium pricing.• [Negotiation Tactics That Build Partnership] How to reframe sales conversations using Chris  Voss's "Never Split the Difference" principles, including why getting prospects to say "no" is more powerful than pushing for "yes."• [Recovery After Business Disruption] Practical strategies for rebuilding your consulting practice after major setbacks, including the financial buffer you need and the mindset shifts required to turn disruption into strategic momentum.Resources Mentioned in This Episode• Book: "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss - FBI hostage negotiation tactics applied to business negotiations and sales conversations• Upwork - Freelance platform for testing market value and building consulting reputation• MIT Sloan School - Certificate programs in leadership development• Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania - Certificate programs in organizational leadershipAbout Bob GreeneBob Greene is the Principal Consultant at RCG Workgroup, specializing in business development and leadership strategy. With a background that evolved from sales management to sales training to comprehensive organizational development, Bob brings a neuroscience-based approach to helping organizations improve performance through customized, outcome-focused consulting. His expertise spans three key areas: sales enablement, leadership development, and conflict resolution. Bob's unique "immersive leadership" model involves taking on executive roles within client organizations to implement sustainable, process-driven change rather than personality-dependent systems. He holds certificates in leadership development from MIT Sloan School and Wharton School at theUniversity of Pennsylvania.Connect with Bob Greene on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgreene10/Learn more about RCG Workgroup: https://rcgworkgroup.com/

What does it really take to leave a large consulting firm and build a thriving solo practice from scratch?In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, AJ interviews David Hermann, founder of Herman Group and Herman Digital Media, about his transition from corporate consulting to entrepreneurship.David shares how he:• Rebuilt authority after leaving a major healthcare consultancy• Used content marketing, authority building, and networking as a “three-legged stool” growth strategy• Leveraged LinkedIn newsletters and moved to Substack to reach founders outside corporate circles• Paused sales to earn business brokerage credentials• Structured value-based consulting fees tied directly to measurable client outcomes• Built social proof without relying on a website• Published his first book, The Change Agent Code• Navigates revenue uncertainty, pipeline rebuilding, and imposter syndromeIf you're a consultant, founder, coach, or service professional wondering how to price confidently, generate qualified leads, or transition from corporate to independent work, this episode delivers practical strategy and honest insights.David also explains:– How to qualify leads using 3 powerful questions– Why hourly pricing misaligns incentives– How to handle pushback on premium fees– Why speaking engagements outperform websites for lead generation– How founders should prepare emotionally and strategically for exitWhether you're building a consulting firm, preparing for acquisition, or trying to create sustainable authority in your niche, this conversation will help you thrive through uncertainty.To connect with David Herman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidhermann/

How do you build a thriving consulting practice without constantly chasing leads?In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, AJ sits down with Diane Davidson, founder of Clever Fox Advisory, to talk about building a sustainable consulting business through strategic partnerships, LinkedIn visibility, and long-term contract stability.With 8 years as a solopreneur, Diane shares how she carved out a niche in post-merger integrations and business transformation by partnering with major consulting firms like Ernst & Young, Slalom, Capgemini, and Wipro.Instead of relying solely on cold outreach or C-suite networking, Diane built recurring revenue through consulting firm partnerships that provide 3–9 month contracts, 40-hour workweeks, and predictable income.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How to secure long-term consulting contracts• Why partnering with consulting firms can create income stability• A practical LinkedIn strategy that takes just 10 minutes a day• How to stay top of mind through referrals and reciprocal relationships• Why nurturing relationships matters more than constant lead generation• How to stay relevant in the age of Gen AI• The power of a 90-day experimentation philosophy• When to walk away from toxic clients• Why trusting your gut is critical in entrepreneurshipDiane also shares powerful lessons on blocking out noise, ignoring doubters, and building a business aligned with your values — even when others think you’ll fail.If you’re a consultant, solopreneur, or aspiring independent professional looking for sustainable growth strategies, this episode is packed with practical insight.Connect with Diane Davidson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-davidson-clever-fox/

Discover the inspiring journey of Nathan Stadler, who transitioned from truck driver to successful self-employed bookkeeper in this powerful episode of the Thriving Through Podcast hosted by AJ Riedel.In this conversation, Nathan shares how a life-changing family moment led him to leave the road and build a home-based bookkeeping business that supports solopreneurs, consultants, and small service providers. He opens up about learning bookkeeping from scratch, building persistence through tough years, and how consistency and availability brought unexpected clients and long-term success.You’ll also learn how Nathan built a smart referral system using ChatGPT and GoHighLevel to automate networking, manage connections, and create meaningful business relationships. From intentional coffee meetings to structured CRM tagging and landing page workflows, Nathan explains how authentic networking can generate consistent leads without sounding salesy.This episode also highlights lessons from Daniel Ruke, focusing on relationship-driven sales, discovery conversations, and turning casual meetings into strategic growth opportunities. Whether you’re a freelancer, consultant, coach, or small business owner, this discussion offers practical insights on building a sustainable self-employed career through service, systems, and genuine connections.Connect with Nathan on -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-stadler-bookkeeping/

In this episode of Thriving Through, leadership consultant George Sample shares how he spent 8–9 years building a profitable side hustle before going full-time into consulting and the exact strategies that helped him scale sustainably.From starting as a computer science graduate to becoming a global leadership coach, speaker, and founder of Blue Streak Consultants, George reveals what it really takes to transition from corporate employee to successful self-employed consultant.You’ll learn how to stay visible, generate consistent leads, and position yourself as an expert even while working a full-time job.This episode is packed with practical insights for consultants, coaches, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who want to build a thriving business with long-term impact.In this episode, you’ll discover:- How George built his consulting practice on the side for nearly a decade before going full-time- The biggest mindset shift required to move from employee to entrepreneur- Why staying “top of mind” is critical for consultants and coaches- Simple lead generation strategies using speaking, writing, and direct outreach- How to manage time, clients, and marketing as a solo consultant- What it takes to grow into a national speaker in a competitive marketGeorge also shares tools and platforms that support his business development, including using LinkedIn for visibility and HubSpot for managing relationships and outreach.If you’re building a consulting or coaching business or planning to start one this conversation will give you a realistic roadmap to grow without burning out.To connect with George - https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgesample/

In this powerful episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, AJ Riedel sits down with neuroscience-based sales coach Shannon Smith to explore how solopreneurs and professionals can overcome fear of selling, silence self-doubt, and build a business with confidence.Blending neuroscience with modern sales coaching, Shannon shares how understanding your brain can transform the way you sell, communicate value, and connect with clients. From escaping corporate burnout to navigating toxic bosses and impostor syndrome, this conversation dives deep into mindset, self-talk, and the psychology behind successful selling.You’ll hear Shannon’s personal journey from traditional hard sales to neuroscience-driven coaching, including how the pandemic pushed her into deep research on anxiety, habits, and mental resilience and how that led to a completely new approach to sales and personal growth.If you’re a coach, consultant, freelancer, or solopreneur who struggles with charging what you’re worth, showing up in DMs, or confidently selling your services, this episode is for you.Discover:How neuroscience can rewire your relationship with salesWhy most solopreneurs fear selling themselvesThe mindset shifts needed to charge what you’re worthHow to handle self-doubt and negative self-talkWays to communicate your value clearly to ideal clientsHow to escape corporate burnout and build meaningful workThis episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, coaches, and professionals ready to grow their business without feeling pushy or inauthentic.To connect Shannon - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonsmithjdms/

Welcome back to the Thriving Through podcast. In this episode, host Aj Riedel sits down with Raina Gandhi, founder of Rising Tide Consulting, for a powerful conversation about self-advocacy, limiting beliefs, and what it really takes for women to thrive in their careers.Raina shares her non-linear career journey from investment banking and microfinance to higher education, motherhood, and entrepreneurship. Drawing on her experience as a career relauncher and senior leader, she explains how deeply ingrained narratives like “I’m not enough,” “I should just be grateful,” and fear of being seen as bossy or aggressive can quietly hold women back at work.This episode dives into how women can recognize and rewrite limiting beliefs, build confidence, and create a new self-concept that supports growth and leadership. Raina also opens up about the challenges of starting her own consulting business, pricing her services, overcoming scarcity mindset, and reframing sales as service. She discusses why so many women struggle with visibility, promotions, and self-advocacy, especially in male-dominated industries like tech and STEM.You will also hear practical insights on managing imposter syndrome, advocating for promotions and raises, navigating workplace dynamics, and why investing in personal development can be career changing. Raina explains how her clients consistently achieve tangible results like promotions, raises, and high-visibility projects, even when the benefits feel hard to quantify at first.If you are a professional woman feeling stuck, questioning your value, or struggling to move to the next level in your career, this conversation offers clarity, validation, and actionable guidance.Key topics discussed:• overcoming limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome• self-advocacy and career visibility for women• navigating workplace narratives and bias• transitioning into entrepreneurship and consulting• pricing your value and investing in yourself• supporting women in tech and stem careers• redefining success and thriving at workLearn more about Raina Gandhi:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rainabgandhi/Subscribe to Thriving Through for more conversations on growth, resilience, leadership, and building a career that truly fits your life.#thrivingthrough #womeninleadership #careercoaching #womenintech #impostersyndrome #selfadvocacy

What actually holds most consultants back from success? It’s not lack of skill, talent, or hard work, it’s following outdated, conventional advice.In Episode 2 of the Thriving Through Podcast with executive coach and entrepreneur Stever Robbins returns to break down why traditional consulting models no longer work in today’s world. With over 26 years of experience as a self-employed consultant and a career spanning Harvard Business School, MIT, startups, and executive coaching, Stever shares the uncomfortable truths most professionals avoid.This episode dives deep into why the conventional path of “do great work and clients will come” is flawed, how discomfort stops consultants from standing out, and why being different is now your biggest competitive advantage. Stever explains how old-school corporate thinking keeps consultants invisible and what it really takes to build authority, credibility, and a thriving independent career.You’ll discover why differentiation matters more than ever in the age of AI and sameness, how embracing your uniqueness can transform your positioning, and why breaking away from traditional consulting rules is essential for growth.If you’re a consultant, coach, freelancer, or entrepreneur struggling to stand out, get clients, or build a powerful personal brand, this episode will challenge your thinking and push you toward a bolder approach to success.🎧 Listen now and rethink everything you’ve been told about consulting and success.👉 Learn more about Stever Robbins:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stever/🎙️ Hosted by AJ Riedel✨ Keep Thriving Through

What does it really take to succeed as a self-employed consultant, coach, or entrepreneur? In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, executive coach and entrepreneur Stever Robbins challenges everything we’re taught about hard work, meritocracy, and success in the corporate world.With over 26 years as a self-employed consultant and a background that spans Harvard Business School, MIT, startups, and executive coaching, Stever shares why doing great work is not enough and why visibility, relationships, credibility, and differentiation matter far more than most people realize. From being mistaken for a waiter at a CEO conference to discovering that self-promotion can be the difference between success and invisibility, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for consultants who want to be taken seriously.Stever also dives into what success truly means beyond money, sharing a powerful framework for evaluating your life, your work, and your impact. He explains how embracing what makes you different not trying to fit the corporate mold can become your greatest advantage, especially in the age of AI and ChatGPT, where sameness is everywhere.If you’re a self-employed consultant, executive coach, freelancer, or entrepreneur struggling with positioning, authority, sales, or standing out in a crowded market, this episode will fundamentally change how you think about success, credibility, and growth.🎧 Listen now and learn how to stop blending in and start being chosen.👉 Learn more about Stever Robbins: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stever/🎙️ Hosted by AJ Riedel✨ Keep Thriving Through

What does it take to build a consulting practice that is both sustainable and personally fulfilling?In this episode of Thriving Through, host AJ Riedel sits down with Kit Friday, an independent marketing consultant with 15 years of experience, to explore her journey from paralegal and private investigator to creative entrepreneur and strategic marketer. Kit shares the challenges of stepping fully into self-employment, overcoming self-doubt, and realizing the value of her innate talents.Throughout the conversation, Kit opens up about:How she blended analytical skills and creative passions to define her career pathThe long road to confidence and believing in her own value as a consultantLearning to differentiate instinct from anxiety and make strategic decisions under pressureStructuring a consulting practice around tailored marketing, authenticity, transparency, and goal-settingBuilding repeat clients and maintaining long-term relationships through clarity and communicationDeveloping prospecting systems to escape the feast-or-famine cycleExpanding her practice through workshops, speaking engagements, and teachingKit also reflects on the personal lessons she’s learned from early client experiences, including the power of self-reflection surveys and the importance of setting boundaries to deliver high-quality work consistently. She shares practical strategies for consultants who struggle with imposter syndrome, inconsistent revenue, or finding the confidence to scale their businesses.In this episode, we cover:Kit Friday’s path from paralegal and private investigator to marketing consultantThe creative and analytical duality that shaped her careerOvercoming self-doubt and finding professional confidenceTailoring consulting services to clients’ needs and budgetsGoal-setting and measuring consulting impactProspecting, repeat clients, and stabilizing incomeTransitioning toward workshops, teaching, and speaking engagementsLessons from early projects and self-reflection practicesIf you’re a consultant, freelancer, or small business owner seeking clarity, confidence, and a sustainable approach to client work, this episode offers actionable insights to help you thrive through your consulting journey.👉 Learn more about Kit Friday:Website: kitfriday.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kitfriday/🎙️ Hosted by AJ Riedel✨ Keep Thriving Through

What does it take to build a consulting practice that drives both growth and client impact?In this episode of Thriving Through, host AJ Riedel sits down with Andy Sherman, an experienced consultant and former CEO, to explore his unique journey through self-employment three times over. Andy shares how he transitioned from leading sales teams and running companies to building a consulting business focused on helping owner-operated small and mid-sized businesses scale their sales and operations.Throughout the conversation, Andy opens up about:Re-entering self-employment after corporate and entrepreneurial experiencesLeveraging his sales background to build a referral-driven consulting practiceSystematically nurturing referral networks and identifying high-potential partnersCreating strategic partnerships, including fractional CFO and MSP consulting initiativesIncorporating AI tools to accelerate clients’ go-to-market strategiesDefining success through client impact, scalability, and improving quality of life for business ownersLearning from early mistakes and the importance of client qualificationStaying ahead in a rapidly evolving market and technology landscapeAndy also reflects on the personal lessons that shaped his consulting approach, including the value of a multi-pronged business development strategy, selective client alignment, and continuously evolving his practice to provide measurable value.In this episode, we cover:Andy Sherman’s journey through multiple phases of self-employmentRebuilding a consulting practice and regaining momentumReferral networks and systematic business developmentStrategic partnerships with Whitman Advisory and Strategic Impact PartnersUsing AI to drive real client revenue and operational impactSuccess metrics beyond revenue: scalability, independence, and owner impactLessons learned from misaligned projects and client selectionPlanning for the future while enjoying ongoing professional growthIf you’re a consultant, entrepreneur, or small business owner looking to build a high-value practice, scale operations, or integrate AI into growth strategies, this episode offers actionable insights to help you thrive through the consulting journey.👉 Learn more about Andy Sherman:Website: apexgrowthadvisors.netLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andysherman2/🎙️ Hosted by AJ Riedel✨ Keep Thriving Through

What happens when corporate rejection becomes the catalyst for building a thriving business?In this episode of Thriving Through, presented by AJ Riedel, AJ sits down with leadership coach, consultant, and author Jacob Karnes to unpack his journey from being turned down for promotions to building a purpose-driven consulting business serving leaders who employ Gen Z and young professionals.Jacob shares how leaving corporate life led him to clarity around niching down, why most coaches struggle to define who they serve, and how getting hyper-specific transformed his sales, confidence, and impact. He opens up about the painful lessons of the first year and a half of entrepreneurship, the reality of the revenue roller coaster, and how recurring clients helped him stabilize his income.You’ll also hear how writing his book, Master Your First Job, became the single most powerful growth tool in his business building authority, generating leads, and opening doors without feeling “salesy.” Jacob breaks down his outbound sales process, why certifications don’t close deals, and how frameworks not credentials create trust and results.This episode is packed with practical insights for:Coaches, consultants, and solopreneursBusiness owners navigating inconsistent revenueLeaders managing Gen Z and young employeesEntrepreneurs struggling with sales and nichingAnyone turning setbacks into meaningful growthIn this episode, we cover:Why corporate “no’s” can lead to the right entrepreneurial “yes”How niching down increases quality leads and conversion ratesThe truth about certifications vs. real authorityUsing a book as a lead generator and trust builderOutbound vs. inbound sales for small businessesLeading young people and building a Gen Z talent pipelineCreating predictable income while maintaining lifestyle freedomJacob also shares his long-term vision for licensing his leadership frameworks, growing a team, and building a business that supports both impact and family life.If you’re looking to thrive through uncertainty, clarify your niche, and build a business aligned with your values, this episode is a must-listen.👉 Get a free copy of Jacob’s book:masteryourfirstjob.com/free👉 Connect with Jacob on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/🎙️ Hosted by AJ Riedel✨ Keep Thriving Through

What does it really take to leave corporate life, start consulting independently, and scale a business without burning out?In this episode of Thriving Through, host AJ Riedel sits down with Alyssa Schaefer, aka The Business Cowgirl, to unpack her journey from being part of dismantled tech teams to thriving as a self-employed consultant. Alyssa shares the mindset shifts, technical know-how, and strategic systems that helped her build a successful consulting practice and overcome challenges like imposter syndrome and pricing uncertainty.Throughout the conversation, Alyssa opens up about:Her transition from corporate tech roles to independent consultingHow bartending skills helped her excel at client communication and bridging tech gapsBuilding scalable business systems for coaches, consultants, and agenciesCommon mistakes in software integrations and workflow automationWhy 95% of AI implementations fail—and how to use AI effectively without overreliancePricing strategies, delivering high-value consulting, and growing your credibilityThe importance of mindset in leveraging technology and systems to scaleAlyssa also reflects on her next phase: moving from one-to-one consulting to one-to-many models and helping more people with practical systems and guidance. She shares resources like her Tech Health Scorecard, which helps businesses assess their systems, integrations, data quality, and workflow efficiency.In this episode, we cover:Alyssa Schaefer’s journey from corporate layoffs to independent consultingOvercoming imposter syndrome and building confidence as a consultantUsing bartending and interpersonal skills to enhance business communicationKey mistakes in software and data integration for scaling businessesPractical AI strategies for consultants and small business ownersPricing, value delivery, and growing your consulting business sustainablyTransitioning to one-to-many consulting and creating scalable resourcesIf you’re a coach, consultant, or agency owner struggling with tech, AI, or business systems, this episode offers actionable insights and mindset strategies to help you thrive through the complexities of business growth.👉 Learn more about Alyssa Schaefer, The Business Cowgirl:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thebusinesscowgirl/YouTube: The Business CowgirlFree Resource: Tech Health Scorecard🎙️ Hosted by AJ Riedel✨ Keep Thriving Through

In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, host AJ Riedel speaks with Brandon Mahoney, Director of Partnerships at Launch Point Labs, about the real-world challenges of building a sustainable consulting business and the confidence it takes to make it work.Brandon shares his journey into self-employment during the pandemic, the early mistakes he made around pricing and positioning, and how false humility nearly held his consulting practice back. From charging $15 an hour to confidently pricing high-impact, premium consulting projects, Brandon explains why consultants must own their expertise and communicate it clearly to clients.This conversation dives deep into pivotal moments in Brandon’s career, including launching and temporarily leaving, Launch Point Labs, returning with a clearer sense of purpose, and balancing mission-driven work with high-growth SaaS and tech consulting. Brandon also breaks down how he helps organizations build predictable, repeatable, and profitable sales systems, especially during high-stakes moments like mergers and acquisitions.You’ll learn:Why confidence matters more than credentials in consultingHow to price your expertise without imposter syndromeThe difference between arrogance and stating factsWhy inbound and outbound sales teams must be structured differentlyHow Brandon uses free audits to convert custom consulting work into long-term engagementsWhat consultants often misunderstand about lifestyle freedom and fulfilmentBrandon also shares honest insights about the future of his consulting journey, his desire to mentor the next generation of sales consultants, and why consulting is far more demanding but more rewarding than it looks from the outside.Whether you’re an aspiring consultant, a seasoned advisor, or a founder building sales teams and go-to-market strategy, this episode offers practical lessons on confidence, pricing, pivots, and sustainable growth.🔗 Connect with Brandon Mahoney - https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctorsales/

What if the secret to building a profitable consulting business isn't forcing yourself into a predetermined niche, but instead paying attention to which client conversations genuinely light you up?In this episode, host AJ Riedel talks to Kirstin Brenders, an online business coach and mentor who helps women transition from corporate careers to entrepreneurship. After nearly 20 years in corporate architecture and interior design, Kirstin built a thriving consulting practice by pivoting from her original niche when she discovered what truly energized her—guiding women through the corporate-to-consultant transition she had navigated herself.WHY YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO THIS EPISODEIf you're struggling with inconsistent income, feeling burned out from trying to serve everyone, or uncomfortable with self-promotion, Kirstin's journey offers a refreshing perspective on building a sustainable consulting practice. She shares how an "accidental entrepreneur" transformed corporate burnout into a fulfilling business by trusting her instincts, reframing marketing as service, and making strategic pivots based on energy alignment rather than forcing a preconceived business plan. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom for self-employed consultants who want to attract ideal clients, overcome the discomfort of visibility, and build businesses that are both financially successful and personally rewarding.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE• [The Accidental Entrepreneur Path] How corporate burnout and motherhood can become catalysts for discovering your true calling as a consultant, and why testing ideas before going "all in" reduces risk while building confidence• [Finding Your Ideal Client Through Energy Alignment] Why paying attention to which client conversations light you up is more valuable than forcing yourself to stick with your original niche, and how to recognize when it's time to pivot• [Reframing Marketing as Service] How to overcome the discomfort of self-promotion by understanding that marketing yourself helps potential clients find the solutions they desperately need, transforming visibility from vanity into service• [The Power of Community for Solo Consultants] Why connecting with other entrepreneurs—both online and in person—accelerates your comfort with marketing, helps you find your authentic voice, and combats the isolation of independent consulting• [Strategic Social Media Study] How to use social media as a learning tool rather than just consumption, studying what content resonates with you to shape your own authentic marketing voice and attract ideal consulting clients• [Mindset as a Business Asset] Why healing from burnout and managing self-talk are critical business skills for self-employed consultants, and how essentialism can help you build a sustainable consulting practice without sacrificing work-life balanceLISTEN TO THESE KEY MOMENTS[00:00:25] From Corporate to Consultant [00:02:02] Testing the Freelance Waters [00:04:05] The Pivot Point: When Women Started Calling [00:08:44] Paying Attention to What Lights You Up[00:13:00] Overcoming the Discomfort of Narrowing Your Niche[00:19:30] Building Systems as a Solo Consultant[00:26:50] The Comparison Trap and Finding Your Voice[00:33:47] Essentialism: The Book That Healed Burnout[00:35:06] Marketing as Service, Not Self-Promotion[00:36:09] Building the Marketing Muscle[00:37:57] Study Social Media, Don't Just Consume It - Kirstin's powerful advice for finding your authentic marketing voice by analyzing what content you're drawn to and why you're saving or liking specific postsRESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE"Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less" by Greg McKeownABOUT KIRSTIN BRENDERSKirstin Brenders is an online business coach and mentor who helps women build sustainable businesses after leaving corporate careers. With nearly 20 years of experience in corporate architecture and interior design—specializing in team building, client management, and project management—Kirstin understands firsthand the challenges of corporate burnout and the journey to entrepreneurship. After becoming an "accidental entrepreneur" during the pandemic, she initially helped interior designers and architects with behind-the-scenes business systems and processes. Recognizing that her true passion was mentoring women through the corporate-to-consultant transition, Kirstin pivoted her business to focus on coaching creative professionals and service-based entrepreneurs. She believes in building businesses that are both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling, emphasizing energy alignment, authentic marketing, and mindset work as foundations for sustainable success.Connect with Kirstin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstinbrenders/Visit her website: KirstinBrenders.comFollow her on Instagram: @KirstinBrenders.co

How do you go from unpredictable consulting income to a sustainable, lifestyle-aligned business?In this episode of Thriving Through, host AJ Riedel sits down with independent consultant Dave de Céspedes to explore his journey from teaching and creative work to building a thriving consulting practice—one now highly specialized in serving venture capital firms.Dave shares how his early years as a generalist consultant led to inconsistent lead flow, volatile revenue, and scattered engagements—and how niching down into the VC space completely transformed his business. He explains how working within Notion’s consultant ecosystem initially fueled inbound leads, but also exposed the risk of relying on lead sources you don’t control.This episode dives deep into consulting lead generation, relationship-based growth, and why longer-term, sprint-based retainers create far more predictable revenue than traditional project work. Dave also breaks down how workflow audits, change management, and flexible sprint planning help VC teams actually adopt new systems—rather than letting them collect dust.If you’re a consultant, coach, or solopreneur navigating feast-or-famine income, wondering whether to niche down, or trying to design a business that supports both time freedom and financial stability, this conversation delivers practical, real-world insight.In this episode, we cover:Dave de Céspedes’ path from teaching to consultingNavigating the consulting revenue roller coasterWhy relying solely on inbound leads is riskyHow niching down into venture capital builds authorityRelationship-driven lead generation strategiesStructuring retainers and sprint-based engagementsSolving workflow and operations challenges for VC firmsStaying relevant as AI and productivity tools evolveDesigning a consulting business around lifestyle and familyDave also reflects on how consulting has enabled him to be present for his family while building a profitable, fulfilling business—without sacrificing impact or flexibility.If you want to thrive through uncertainty, create consistent consulting income, and become a recognized expert in a clear niche, this episode is a must-listen.👉 Learn more about Dave’s work:workcraft.co👉 Connect with Dave de Céspedes:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmdecespedes/

In this episode of the Thriving Through Podcast, host AJ Riedel sits down with Mark Rapier, a consultant, advisor, and author of The Leader with a Thousand Faces. Mark shares decades of real-world consulting experience and breaks down the three types of consultants, contractors, project consultants, and advisors and explains how positioning yourself as an advisor allows you to charge premium rates while building a sustainable consulting practice.Mark opens up about his transition from large consulting firms to independent consulting, how COVID accelerated his move, and the biggest mindset shifts required when running your own consulting business. He also discusses why the most effective consultants focus on influence, leadership, and enterprise-level thinking, not just execution.You’ll learn how to:• Identify which type of consultant you are, and which one you should be• Position yourself as a strategic advisor instead of a “gun for hire”• Use LinkedIn and thought leadership to attract inbound consulting opportunities• Build a consulting network that actually generates business• Say no to the wrong projects so you’re available for the right ones• Price your services confidently and explore alternative compensation models• Turn consulting engagements into retainers and recurring revenue• Stay relevant by continuously preparing for the “next wave” in your careerMark also shares insights from his time as an interim CIO, lessons from uncovering hidden organizational risks, and how writing his book helped strengthen his authority and consulting pipeline.If you’re a consultant, coach, advisor, freelancer, or professional service provider looking to grow your influence, raise your rates, and build a consulting practice that doesn’t burn you out, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.