Millions Were Made

In this special episode, Jessica Marx brings together standout insights from five industry leaders — Jasmine Star, Amy Porterfield, Shannon Matson, Keri Ford and Autumn Witt Boyd — to deliver a comprehensive, high-level conversation on what today’s multi-million-dollar founders must master to stay relevant, profitable, and positioned for long-term success in 2025 and beyond.Across content strategy, marketing performance, leadership psychology, IP protection, and team development, this episode cuts through noise and gets straight to the strategic truths high-growth businesses need to hear.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:How to use trends strategically without diluting your brand — and what “contextualizing content” actually means for business growth (with Jasmine Star).Why a funnel that isn’t converting is rarely a traffic problem — and how to rebuild trust and customer readiness at every stage (with Shannon Matson).How your stress patterns influence your leadership capacity — and the somatic strategies elite founders use to scale sustainably (with Keri Ford).The IP gaps most founders overlook — and how to safeguard your brand, content, and proprietary processes before scaling or exiting (with Autumn Witt Boyd).What it truly takes to step into the CEO role — and why building a leadership team is the turning point for companies moving from seven to eight figures (with Amy Porterfield).If you’re committed to optimizing your systems, elevating your leadership, strengthening your legal foundation, and creating content that actually converts — this episode is a strategic roadmap for your next evolution.Mini-timeline 01:11— Jasmine Star: How to use trends strategically without copying and how to create contextualized, original content.07:06— Shannon Matson: Why funnels fail, the three types of trust required for conversions, and how to rebuild the customer journey.14:13 — Keri Ford: Leadership archetypes, stress responses, and how somatic strategies help founders scale without burnout.18:02 — Autumn Witt Boyd: The biggest legal mistakes founders make and how to protect trademarks, copyrights, and proprietary processes.24:11 / 24:41— Amy Porterfield: Moving from operator to CEO, building a leadership team, and forecasting for long-term growth.29:45— Jessica’s closing insight for founders ready to elevate into their next level.ResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner at millionsweremade.comFollow @MillionsWereMade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsEpisode #36 - Amy Porterfield Episode #62 - Jasmine StarEpisode #54 - Autumn Witt BoydEpisode #56 - Keri...

Jessica Marx sits down with Victoria Marcouillier, Founder and CEO of BrandWell Designs®, to discuss one of the most overlooked growth levers for established businesses: a strategic rebrand.If you’ve scaled into the multi–six or seven-figure range—but your brand, website, or messaging hasn’t evolved with you—this conversation is for you. Jessica and Victoria break down why so many successful founders outgrow the brand that got them started, and how an elevated brand identity directly impacts trust, conversions, referrals, and long-term scalability.Together, they explore:The disconnect between a company’s growth and its outdated online presenceHow high-caliber buyers evaluate your brand within the first few secondsThe shift toward simplicity and clarity in website design for 2026Why rebranding is a strategic business decision—not a cosmetic oneThe importance of a name and brand that can scale with your future visionHow to strengthen trust, increase conversions, and elevate market perceptionThe role branding plays in reducing founder dependencyHow AI is reshaping the branding landscape (and how to stay differentiated)Victoria also shares insights into how BrandWell Designs® approaches brand development through strategy—not just design—and how CEOs can confidently reposition themselves for the next level of growth.If your brand no longer reflects your expertise, price point, or business evolution, this episode will guide you through what needs to change—and why now is the time to do it.Mini-timeline00:00–01:20 — Why branding matters at higher revenue levels.01:21–05:00 — Victoria’s background: agency founder, strategist, and mom of three. 05:01–08:05 — Why high-performing businesses often hide behind outdated websites.08:06–10:59 — The most common issues uncovered during website audits.11:00–13:17 — The shift in branding trends and what works heading into 2026.13:18–17:20 — Strategy-first branding: how BrandWell  Designs® extracts clarity and vision.20:38–24:38 — Why removing the founder from the brand is essential for scalability.24:39–28:24 — When a business name needs to evolve—and how to communicate the change.28:25–31:05 — How story-driven positioning sets brands apart in an AI-saturated market.31:06–34:46 — The growing importance of a strong online presence for referrals.34:47–40:35 — Timing, planning, and budgeting for a rebrand.40:36–44:37 — Victoria’s complimentary website audit for listeners.44:38–End — Where to find Victoria and how to begin your BrandWell transformation.ResourcesHave Victoria Audit Your Website: https://www.brandwelldesigns.com/millionsweremadeFollow @millionsweremade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Victoria Marcouillier:Website: 

If your idea of “freedom” as a CEO still involves answering Slack messages at midnight, this episode is your wake-up call.Jessica Marx sits down with Stacy Tuschl, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Well-Oiled Operations, to unpack how scaling your business doesn’t have to mean working more—it means hiring smarter.Stacy has built multiple seven- and eight-figure companies while sipping coffee outside the day-to-day grind. She’s here to help you find, hire, and lead that elusive “number two” who can run your business like a well-oiled machine—so you can finally step into your visionary CEO role (and maybe even rediscover what weekends are).In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Identify when it’s time to hire your “number two” and what they should actually do.Structure your interview process to weed out the talkers and find the doers.Design an onboarding plan that prevents 90-day disasters.Create a compensation structure that rewards results, not just attendance.Build an A-player culture that doesn’t let mediocrity slide.Step out of the weeds and into true CEO leadership—without losing control.This isn’t fluffy leadership talk—it’s tactical, battle-tested strategy from someone who’s lived it. If you’ve ever wondered how to scale past seven figures without scaling your burnout, this is your roadmap.Ready to stop being your own bottleneck? Hit play—and start hiring your freedom.Mini-timeline00:00–02:10 — The myth of “doing it all” and why freedom requires people, not just hustle.02:11–05:00 — Stacy’s inspiring journey from teaching dance classes in her parents’ backyard to leading multiple seven-figure enterprises.05:01–08:30 — Why most entrepreneurs get stuck before hiring their number two—and how to fix it.08:31–11:45 — How to define your next hire: EA vs. Operator, and when to choose each.11:46–15:30 — Mastering the interview process: why a single conversation isn’t enough to identify true top performers.15:31–18:45 — Spotting real A-players: Paid test projects and communication cues.18:46–22:00 — Compensation conversations: turning “I need $115K” into a win-win deal.22:01–26:45 — Onboarding that actually works: building 30-60-90 day success plans.26:46–30:15 — Pruning your team: when great people outgrow your company (and vice versa).30:16–34:00 — The CEO identity shift: what to actually do once you delegate yourself out.34:01–36:48 — How time freedom sparks innovation, strategic thinking, and long-term business creativity.36:49–End — Where to find Stacy and how to build your own “well-oiled” empire.ResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner at millionsweremade.comFollow @MillionsWereMade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Stacy Tuschl:Website:

What truly separates seven-figure businesses from those scaling into eight? Jessica Marx and Brooke Dumas break down what the most mature companies are doing differently — from how founders use their time to how they structure their org charts, manage profit margins, and lead their teams. This episode shows you the operational and mindset shifts required to move from “busy CEO” to strategic leader of a scalable enterprise.You’ll learn:• The key differences in how 7-figure and 8-figure founders spend their time. • Why mature companies grow margins — not just revenue — as they scale. • How to structure your org chart to hire for where you’re going, not where you are. • The smartest way to balance profit conservation with growth investment. • The most common founder bottlenecks that stall companies under $10 million. • How to transition from “doer” to CEO without losing visibility or control.Mini-timeline00:01–02:58 What separates 7-figure and 8-figure operations 02:58–04:55 The role of volume, scalability, and profit margins 04:55–06:08 Why clinging to profit can actually cap growth 06:08–08:45 The clarity problem — and how data solves it 09:06–11:21 How 8-figure founders spend their time differently 11:21–14:17 Org chart structure and hiring ahead of growth 14:17–17:13 Smart investment vs. overextension when scaling 17:29–19:40 Founder bottlenecks and letting go of control 20:18–21:46 Final advice for founders on the path to eight figuresResources• Listen to Episode #64 — What We Learned From Auditing 75+ Multi-Million-Dollar BusinessesDownload the 2026 Business Planner or at millionsweremade.comListen to Episode #53 on Increase Your Profit Margins Without Raising PricesListen to Episode #58 on Designing Incentive Comp That Actually ScalesFollow @millionsweremade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were Made

After conducting more than 75 audits on multi-seven-figure companies, Jessica Marx and Brooke Dumas are revealing the common threads between businesses that scale — and those that stall. In this behind-the-scenes episode, you’ll hear what actually happens when Tailored Premier dissects a business from the inside out, the patterns they see across industries, and the small shifts that produce massive growth.You’ll learn: • The two biggest bottlenecks keeping founders stuck at the multi-seven-figure level. • Why simplifying your business model almost always increases revenue. • How innovation and mindset determine whether a company continues to scale. • What every audit reveals about offer structure, pricing, and team design. • How to prepare your company for an audit (and what data to track now). • The small operational shifts that unlock seven-figure growth without more work.Mini-timeline 00:01–03:11 What founders look like when they come in for an audit 03:11–05:30 Why most growing businesses become overly founder-centric 05:30–07:24 The two biggest factors every successful business has in common 07:24–09:33 Simplification vs. innovation — and why you need both 10:27–12:28 The importance of founder mindset and adaptability 13:26–15:42 What audits reveal about truth vs. perception in the online space 17:25–19:39 How to know when you’re ready for an audit 21:18–23:13 The part of the audit that excites Jessica the most 24:50–26:55 How Tailored Premier fast-tracks client results after an auditResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner or at millionsweremade.comListen to Episode #58 on Designing Incentive Comp That Actually ScalesListen to Episode #53 on Increase Your Profit Margins Without Raising PricesFollow @millionsweremade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were Made

If you’re running a seven or eight-figure business and your calendar still looks like a game of Whac-A-Mole, it’s time to think bigger—and smarter. In this episode, host Jessica Marx sits down with April Beach, business strategist and licensing expert, to unpack how to turn your intellectual property into scalable, high-revenue assets.April reveals the exact process her clients use to close five- and six-figure licensing deals with hospitals, universities, and global organizations—without launching more offers or burning out their teams. You’ll discover how to monetize your frameworks, trainings, and courses through licensing models that grow recurring revenue, expand brand visibility, and free you from the constant cycle of creation.You’ll learn how to:Identify what content or programs in your business are licensable assets.Understand the three levels of licensing—from simple content fillers to full “business-in-a-box” programsProtect your intellectual property with the right trademark and copyright strategies.Follow April’s 7-step licensing roadmap—from strategy and pricing to repeatable sales and delivery systemsUse licensing to build wealth and influence while creating more freedom in your schedule.Licensing isn’t just about scaling your business—it’s about reclaiming your time and creating an ecosystem that works for you. If you’re ready to scale beyond launches and build a business that works for you—not the other way around—listen now and start turning your expertise into recurring revenue.Mini-timeline00:00–01:34 — The concept of licensing as a scalable, brand-safe revenue stream02:18–05:45 — April’s journey from overwhelmed entrepreneur to licensing pioneer.07:28–10:33 — The three levels of licensable content: fillers, puzzle pieces, and complete programs10:33–13:41 — Real-world examples of how licensing creates recurring revenue and long-term brand equity.22:25–24:04 — April’s 7-step licensing framework—from strategy to scalable delivery systems24:43–26:09 — Conducting an “asset inventory” to uncover hidden value in your existing IP.26:09–28:30 — How to expand one product across multiple industries to multiply your reach.31:45–33:25 — White labeling vs. branded licensing—choosing what aligns with your brand visibility goals.33:25–34:30 — The mindset of scalable simplicity: why licensing creates freedom, not complexity.ResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner at millionsweremade.comFollow @MillionsWereMade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with April Beach:Website: https://www.sweetlifeco.com/...

If your content calendar feels busy but your sales pipeline doesn’t, this episode will recalibrate your entire approach.Host Jessica Marx sits down with Jasmine Star—entrepreneur, brand strategist, and host of The Jasmine Star Show—to unpack what’s actually working in content marketing for 2025–2026. Together, they break down the difference between content that goes viral and content that drives revenue, and why specificity, consistency, and focus are the new cornerstones of growth.You’ll learn how to:Create content that converts, not just content that gets views.Use AI strategically while maintaining your authentic voice.Build both a personal brand and a company brand that reinforce each other.Operationalize clinician and founder-led content without burning out your team.Reframe money and success as tools for freedom, impact, and legacy.Posting for posting’s sake? That ends here. Learn how to turn content into wealth, freedom, and legacy. Listen now!Mini-timeline00:00–02:30 — Why this episode is different and why you’ll want to take notes.03:24–08:15 — Profit vs. popularity: the mindset shift driving results in 2026.08:15–10:20 — Metrics that matter: engagement versus conversion.10:20–14:30 — Trend participation versus trend duplication—how to lead ethically online.14:30–17:10 — Leveraging AI as a strategic partner, not a substitute.17:10–19:45 — Inside Jasmine’s “Mini Jasmine” AI model and her 80/20 creation rule.19:45–23:30 — Building two moats: developing both your personal and business brand.23:30–27:55 — Overcoming content resistance in teams and clinician-based businesses.30:45–38:55 — The high-ticket vs. high-volume model: aligning strategy with audience.38:55–44:20 — The “chocolate-covered broccoli” concept—why good content should taste better than it sounds.44:20–47:25 — The evolution of wealth, optionality, and legacy through entrepreneurship.47:25–49:51 — Full-circle reflections: the impact of connection, community, and authenticity in digital entrepreneurship.ResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner or at millionsweremade.comFollow @millionsweremade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tipsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Jasmine:Website: https://jasminestar.com/ Instagram: @jasminestarLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmine-star/ Jasmine’s mastermind:

If your business model no longer fits the life you want or the market you’re in, it’s time to restructure. In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx sits down with Shannon Matson, Founder of The Social Bungalow and multi–seven-figure entrepreneur, to talk about the strategies today’s founders need to adapt, scale, and sustain growth in 2025.From building a high-converting signature offer to fixing a “broken” funnel, Shannon shares her process for attracting committed buyers, crafting messaging that cuts through market skepticism, and creating a mid-ticket, evergreen program as the cornerstone of your ascension model. You’ll learn how to identify when you’ve outgrown your business model, restructure without losing momentum, and shift your positioning to meet today’s evolved buyer.Jessica and Shannon also unpack how to track and interpret the right marketing data, why most funnels fail before the sales page, and how to balance multiple ventures without burning out. Whether you’re downsizing for higher profit or scaling for greater reach, this episode will help you make strategic decisions that create more revenue, more freedom, and more impact.Highlights: (04:10) Shannon’s journey from corporate marketing to multi–seven-figure founder (08:15) Lessons from running both a brick-and-mortar coffee shop and an online business (10:42) How to turn expertise into a high-converting signature offer (14:20) The three core pillars every offer needs to stand out in 2025 (17:48) Why most funnels fail and how to fix yours before driving more traffic (20:36) The three types of trust buyers need before they convert (25:15) Using live launches to gather funnel data and improve conversions (29:00) Tracking the right data to identify your best buyers and biggest drop-off points (33:45) Signs you’ve outgrown your business model and how to restructure (37:58) Building an evergreen, mid-ticket offer as the foundation of your ascension model (43:10) Why constant reinvention erodes buyer trust—and what to do instead (47:12) How to adapt your positioning for today’s longer sales cycles (52:25) The “Access, Authority, Attitude” content framework for building your personal brand (56:42) Shannon’s free training: Define Your Unique Sales Edge (01:00:14) How building personal wealth has impacted Shannon’s life and legacy work (01:06:32) The best piece of business advice Shannon gives her clientsConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Shannon:Website: thesocialbungalow.comInstagram: @thesocialbungalowFree Training: Define Your Unique Sales Edge

If Q1 always feels slow, you’re planning too late. This is Part 2 of our 2-part annual planning series, where host Jessica Marx (with Brooke Dumas) walks you through exactly how to use the 2026 Business Planner to turn data into a complete, executable strategy for the year ahead.You’ll learn:How to run a 2025 recap (revenue, profit, offers, drivers) before you set 2026 goals.How to use a SWOT analysis—and stakeholder input—to surface real opportunities and risks.How to evaluate your offer suite and pricing so you double down on margin.How to rebuild your org chart, rate A/B/C players, and plan 2026 hires.How to align marketing and sales (messaging, campaigns, funnel, AIDA) to today’s buyer.How to translate strategy into Q4 projects, budgets, and timelines your team can execute on January 1.If you missed Part 1, listen to Episode #59 first—it sets the foundation for why Q4 planning now puts you ahead for 2026.Mini-timeline00:01–00:56 What this episode covers and how to use the planner01:41–03:40 2025 business recap: the numbers and questions that matter03:40–05:29 SWOT analysis and getting leadership/fractional feedback05:29–07:07 Goals review: 2025 outcomes → 2026 standard vs. stretch07:07–09:01 Business foundations revisited (markets, buyers, positioning)09:01–10:26 Competitor analysis and capturing white space in Q110:26–11:41 Offer suite and pricing strategy for profitability11:41–13:08 Org chart, A/B/C players, and 2026 hiring plan14:06–16:19 Marketing recap → 9P matrix → funnel and AIDA16:19–17:47 Project planners and priority matrix for Q4 resourcingResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner or at millionsweremade.comFollow @MillionsWereMade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tips

If Q1 always feels slow, you’re planning too late. This is Part 1 of our 2-part annual planning series, where host Jessica Marx (with Brooke Dumas) shares why the most successful 7–8 figure founders lock in their next-year strategy now —not December.You’ll learn:Why waiting until December or January almost guarantees a sluggish Q1.How to use 9 months of real data to decide what to scale, stop, or start for 2026.The cash-flow advantage of securing contracts and deposits in Q4.Why your finance team and staff need runway to resource Q1 initiatives.How to review leadership, fractionals, and agencies like a pro sports team roster—keeping A-players, upgrading gaps.Why stepping away from the weeds to plan with peers unlocks bigger, faster decisions.Next week in Part 2, Jessica and Brooke will walk you step-by-step through the 2026 Business Planner, showing you exactly how to run the process yourself.Mini-timeline00:43–01:20 Why we plan in September (not December)03:07–04:09 The Q1 slowdown problem—and how to prevent it05:35–07:38 Securing next year’s revenue in Q408:42–11:06 What to bring to planning meetings14:03–16:00 Re-rostering your team for the next “season”18:50–21:13 The importance of stepping away to thinkResourcesDownload the 2026 Business Planner or at millionsweremade.comFollow @MillionsWereMade on Instagram for frameworks + strategy tips

High-performing teams don’t happen by accident. In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx breaks down how to architect incentive compensation that drives profitable growth quarter after quarter—without bloating base salaries or rewarding the wrong behavior.You’ll learn exactly how to:Define “incentive comp” for W-2 roles (and when it can apply to select 1099s).Replace vague annual bonuses with 90-day, KPI-tied payouts that create focus and speed.Negotiate top talent you “can’t afford” by holding base flat and layering an upside they can actually earn.Weight goals across 3–5 initiative buckets (e.g., margin protection, volume, cost control, culture/retention) so you’re not bribing for unhealthy revenue.Set targets that are achievable but ambitious, and what it means if someone only hits 20% of the plan.Roll out a plan mid-year the right way (what to communicate and when).Use AI (yes, ChatGPT) the right way to draft plans you’ll still refine to your business.Key TakeawaysQuarterly > annual. 90-day sprints increase focus, frequency of reward, and recall of what earned the bonus.Not just revenue. Tie upside to profitable growth and cost/quality leading indicators (retention, budget adherence, pipeline volume, deliverable quality).Pay mix is a lever. Use incentive comp to bridge a salary gap in hiring—only paying extra when the business wins.Clarity wins. Show the scorecard, weights (e.g., 30/25/20/15/10), how it’s measured, and pay timing (mid-month following quarter close).Reality check. If targets are routinely missed, either the plan is unrealistic—or the person isn’t the fit.Mini-Timeline00:02:29–04:33 What incentive comp is (beyond sales) & why quarterly works05:53–08:10 Hiring example: hold base steady, add $24k annual upside tied to ROI10:53–12:56 Why you must avoid “unhealthy revenue” targets16:49–19:05 When and how to roll out the plan (and what not to do)20:45–21:56 Calibrate difficulty; what persistent 20% attainment really signalsResourcesConnect with us on IG @MillionsWereMadeListen to episode #44 - How to Motivate How to Motivate Your Team and Build a Scalable Company Culture

As a founder scaling into the 7+ figure range, your team is your most valuable asset. But here’s the truth: most entrepreneurs are overpaying their contractors and underpaying their employees—and it’s quietly draining profit and stalling growth.In this episode of Millions Were Made, host Jessica Marx breaks down the hidden compensation pitfalls that nearly every high-growth business faces. Together with Brooke Dumas, they pull back the curtain on real client audits, uncover why so many founders feel “stuck” with expensive 1099s, and share how to finally structure salaries, incentive comp, and team models that actually scale.You’ll learn:The #1 mistake founders make when deciding between W-2 and 1099 hiresWhy contractor pay is often wildly inflated—and how to audit your true costsThe three reasons female founders in particular underpay W-2 employeesHow to restructure comp without losing top talent or blowing up marginsThe shift every founder must make to move from chaos to a profitable, scalable org chartIf you’re serious about protecting margins, retaining top performers, and creating a team that drives real ROI—this episode is required listening.Resources + Links Mentioned:Listen to episode #53 on profit marginsUpcoming episode on incentive comp – subscribe so you don’t miss itFollow us on Instagram @MillionsWereMadeConnect with Jessica on Instagram @TheJessicaMarx

You can’t scale what your nervous system can’t hold. In this powerful episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx sits down with Keri Ford, the CEO of Elevate with Keri and Founder of the Champagne Club, to talk about what it really takes to sustain success when you’ve already hit 7 or 8 figures.From celebrity trainers to multimillion-dollar founders, Keri shares the somatic strategies and mindset shifts that help high-achieving women avoid burnout, regulate their emotions, and stay in their lane of genius. You’ll learn why success often feels empty when you haven’t done the internal work and how to rewire your leadership from the inside out.They also explore how nervous system dysregulation impacts team culture, the importance of identity work at each new revenue level, and how to lead with more presence (and less hustle) as your company grows.Whether you’re racing toward your next million or recalibrating after an exit, this episode will show you how to build sustainable wealth without sacrificing your health, peace, or purpose.Highlights: (04:30) Keri’s background: from luxury creative director to celebrity trainer (07:08) How she built a high-end coaching business with $78K offers (09:04) Why she works with high-level founders vs. beginners (10:07) The 8-part leadership archetype framework (11:07) Why burnout doesn’t go away at 7+ figures—it evolves (13:30) The "brake pad" strategy for sustainable success (15:45) Signs of nervous system dysregulation in high performers (18:00) Best practices to regulate and reset today (20:12) Why mindset matters more at every new level (22:20) The truth about anti-climactic milestones and neutral wins (24:37) How to lead a team through emotional intelligence (27:36) What The Champagne Club is and how it's creating deeper connections (30:16) Behind the scenes of 7- and 8-figure founder dinners (35:19) How personal wealth is funding philanthropic impact through clean water & educationConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Keri:Website: elevatewithkeri.comInstagram: @iamkerifordLearn more about The Champagne Club: www.thechampagneclub.co

DescriptionStill wearing all the hats in your business—or hesitating to hire because you're afraid it won’t pay off? In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx and Chief Integration Strategist, Brooke Dumas, tackle the most common questions CEOs have around hiring: when to hire, who to hire, and how to know if your current team is actually helping you scale—or quietly holding you back.They break down the real cost of waiting too long to hire, how to audit your current team’s efficiency, and what roles you should be prioritising based on your revenue stage. Whether you’ve been burned by bad hires before or you’re sitting on strong profit margins but feeling stuck in the weeds, this episode gives you the clarity and strategy to confidently build a high-performing team.Highlights: (00:06) What it’s really costing you to delay your next hire (01:06) Why most org charts are missing one critical role (02:59) Case study: Two businesses stuck for years without the right hires (04:24) Why busy teams aren’t always efficient teams (06:33) How to tell if your team is actually overworked or just disorganised (08:21) How to assess true service delivery time and scope creep (09:17) What to do if your last hires didn’t work out (10:42) Why protecting profit might actually stall your growth (11:44) Using KPIs to define ROI before you hire (12:54) Not all hires are tied to profit—and that’s okay (14:45) Signs it’s time to hire (or replace someone) (17:13) Why you should always be planning 1–2 hires ahead (18:57) Keeping a warm bench and protecting your A-player ratio (20:41) How to write job descriptions that attract the right candidates (22:37) Why your hiring process needs a 30–60 day runwayConnect with Jessica: Instagram: @millionsweremade and @thejessicamarx Website: Millions Were Made Apply to work with Jessica: Tailored Premier

Do you really own your brand? Are your client contracts actually protecting you? In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx sits down with Autumn Witt Boyd, attorney and Founder of AWB Law Firm, to break down the biggest legal mistakes founders make and how to fix them before it costs you.From outdated contracts to missing trademarks, Autumn shares exactly what to audit, upgrade, or document before you scale to 8 figures or prepare for an exit. They also dive into real-life stories of founders who got burned by DIY legal, what every business should have in writing (but doesn’t), and why it’s not enough to ‘trust your gut’ when it comes to protecting your intellectual property.Whether you're making your first hire or getting your company exit-ready, this episode will help you future-proof your business legally without getting overwhelmed by the fine print.Highlights:(02:05) Why 7 & 8 figure founders are still missing key legal protections(04:08) What goes in a strong client contract (and what everyone forgets)(07:29) Renewals, addendums, and protecting your payment terms(08:10) Why a handshake or email isn’t enough(10:45) How to create paper trails that prevent client disputes(11:07) The risk of copying contracts from competitors or using AI(13:02) What your lawyer should help you decide—not just draft(14:15) The 4 legal documents you need to review yearly(17:11) The truth about trademarks: timing, costs & common myths(18:40) What’s copyright vs trademark—and what’s worth protecting(21:29) Real client stories: getting ripped off by a big company(23:16) What to do when someone copies your content or offer(25:34) Most common lawsuits (and how to avoid them)(27:56) Contractor risks no one talks about(28:33) What buyers look for in due diligence (and what kills deals)(30:38) How to increase your exit valuation with legal systems(31:04) Autumn’s #1 tip for building a company that lasts(32:50) The freedom entrepreneurship gave Autumn’s family(35:30) How networking (not pitching) creates real growthConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarxWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWebsite: Millions Were MadeConnect with Autumn:Website: awbfirm.comInstagram: @awbfirm

DescriptionFeeling stuck between raising your rates or staying barely profitable? In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx and Chief Strategist, Brooke Dumas, break down how to boost your business’s profit margins without increasing prices or burning out your team.They dive deep into offer profitability, cost analysis, and the hidden expenses most founders ignore. From scope creep and outdated pricing to software costs and team inefficiencies, Jessica and Brooke reveal the small tweaks that lead to massive profit growth. Whether you're running an agency, coaching business, or product-based company, this conversation is your roadmap to creating a more profitable (and scalable) business.Highlights: (01:00) Why founders glaze over when it comes to profit (01:32) The #1 mistake business owners make with profitability (03:44) How scope creep silently destroys your margins (05:50) The cost of acquisition and why it matters (07:46) What to do if you’re not profitable (10:06) How to calculate a healthy profit margin (12:42) Why a $500 offer isn’t always profitable (13:28) Who you really need on your financial team (15:37) What to do with low-margin offers (17:45) When low-profit offers are actually strategic (19:56) Why small tweaks beat big overhauls (21:08) The investor’s perspective on profitability (22:19) How long it really takes to shift your profit margins (23:47) Why legacy pricing may be draining your growth (25:28) Jessica’s TED Talk–style closing on personal wealth + profit (27:38) Why profit is more important than revenue (28:50) Where to start tracking your profit (even if you’re overwhelmed)Connect with Jessica: Instagram: @millionsweremade and @thejessicamarx Website: Millions Were Made Apply to work with Jessica: Tailored Premier

DescriptionWhat’s the best investment you can make to scale your company past 7 figures? In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx answers listener-submitted questions and shares the real secret to building sustainable, scalable success as a founder: investing in yourself.Drawing from her work with multimillion-dollar entrepreneurs, Jessica unpacks why inner work, emotional regulation, and smart mentorship are just as critical as business strategy. She shares real client stories, lessons on boundaries and burnout, and the mindset shifts required to break through revenue ceilings without breaking yourself.Whether you're a solopreneur scaling to your first million or running a team on the path to eight figures, this episode will help you identify exactly where to invest—so your growth doesn’t come at the cost of your health or happiness.If you're doing all the things and still not seeing the results you want, this episode is your invitation to shift how you lead, hire, and invest in your own growth as a founder.Highlights: (01:32) The best personal and professional development investments for 7-figure founders (04:56) How to balance hustle and self-care while scaling (07:49) Why strong boundaries make better business leaders (10:01) The myth that working more = more success (11:33) The difference between harmful and helpful habits in business (14:52) What to do if you’re passionate about your craft but ready to scale (17:25) Why personal growth is the most overlooked key to business growthConnect with Jessica: Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarx Work with Jessica: Tailored Premier Website: Millions Were Made

DescriptionThinking of starting a business partnership? Not so fast. In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica Marx and Brooke Dumas break down the truth about business partnerships—when they work, when they don’t, and the costly mistakes most founders make.From best friends launching a mug business to seasoned entrepreneurs considering equity deals, they cover every scenario. Jessica shares why most partnerships fail, what makes a strong co-founder relationship, and how to grow your business without giving away 50% of it. You'll also learn about alternative structures like advisory roles, 1099 contractors, and making your first strategic hire.Whether you're just getting started or running a multi 7 figure company, this episode will help you make smart, sustainable decisions about business partnerships, hiring, and growth.Highlights: (00:01) Defining business partnerships beyond co-founders (01:11) Why most founders should not start with a business partner (03:14) When partnerships do make sense (and why it’s rare) (05:15) Emotional regulation and the realities of co-founding (06:18) The Karen & Sharon scenario: why 50/50 rarely works (08:36) The $2.5M mistake one founder avoided (09:20) Should you build a business with your spouse? (12:24) Alternatives to 50/50 partnerships: role clarity and 1099s (15:16) Understanding the CEO vs COO dynamic (16:05) Brooke’s story: burnout, acquisition talks, and bad timing (17:05) When giving equity does make sense (19:22) What early-stage founders need instead of a partner (21:55) What to do if you’re already in a bad partnership (23:14) Why waiting too long to have the hard convo will cost you (24:08) Rethinking partnerships with agencies, advisors, and your teamConnect with Jessica: Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarx Work with Jessica: Tailored Premier Website: Millions Were Made

Most people don’t grow up learning how to manage money—let alone build multi-generational wealth. In this episode of Millions Were Made, Jessica sits down with wealth management expert Hilary Hendershott to explore what truly sets high-net-worth individuals apart when it comes to money mindset, investment strategy, and legacy planning.Hilary shares her personal journey from financial struggle to founding a boutique firm managing over a quarter billion in assets—exclusively for women. They talk candidly about why women often hesitate to claim wealth, how to shift generational money patterns, and what it really takes to live off your investments. Whether you’re making your first sevenfigures or planning your exit, this episode will give you tangible tools and mindset shifts to create long-term wealth on your terms.If you're a founder ready to protect what you’ve built and start thinking like a true investor, this is your next move.Highlights: (01:00) Hilary’s rock-bottom money moment—and what changed everything (03:34) Why women must lead their own financial futures (04:07) The differences in how men and women approach money (06:45) Breaking the taboo: how mindset impacts your ability to grow wealth (09:52) Why your network shapes your net worth (11:09) One key investment strategy wealthy people use (but rarely talk about) (13:57) Living off your investments: how distributions really work (17:51) When to hire a wealth manager (and what to look for) (21:38) How high-net-worth clients actually think about risk (24:36) The boring but essential habits of wealthy people (26:37) First-generation wealth: how to build a legacy that lasts (31:18) A tax-efficient strategy most people don’t know exists (33:33) Hilary’s favourite books and personal investment wins (34:27) “Millions were made when I nominated myself…”Financial DisclaimerConnect with Jessica: Instagram: @millionsweremade | @thejessicamarx Work with Jessica: Tailored Premier Website: Millions Were MadeConnect with Hilary Hendershott:Website: https://www.hendershottwealth.comPodcast: Love Your MoneyLinkedIn: Hilary Hendershott

In this second installment of our Live Advisory series on Millions Were Made, Jessica coaches two social media agency founders who are navigating what most people don’t talk about: the inner tension between growth, profitability, and staying true to your values.First up is Chelsea, whose agency doubled its revenue and profit in just one year, going from $270K to a projected $550K, and increasing her margins from 17% to 35%. But now she’s wondering: Should I give myself a raise… or reinvest for growth? Jessica dives into a strategic breakdown of where to put that extra profit, from hiring to marketing and how to prepare for acquisition, even if you’re not quite at $1M.Next, we meet Maria, founder of a Singapore-based agency for conscious and sustainable brands. After losing her biggest client and scaling down to focus on her health, she’s now rebuilding from a stronger place—with a $4,500 retainer minimum, a projected revenue of $357K, and a bold commitment to profitability without compromising her mission.Inside this episode, Jessica breaks down:The mindset shift required to stop undercharging and start scaling with intentionWhere to reinvest profits to support long-term growthHow to prepare your business for acquisition.. even under $1MWhy your pricing beliefs might be holding you back more than the marketIf you’re an agency owner or service provider struggling to price with confidence, manage sustainable growth, or get clarity on your next move, this conversation will hit home.Connect with Jessica:Instagram: @millionsweremade & @thejessicamarxWebsite: Millions Were MadeWork with Jessica: Tailored PremierWant to be coached live on the podcast?Email: info@millionsweremade.com to get on the waitlist for our next live Q&A episode.