Right on Time Podcast

Running a business should mean freedom, but what happens when you finally step away from it? I took a 7-day trip deep into Kenya’s Savannah to find out. No laptop. No client calls. Just me, my team, and a test of everything we’ve built. Did I pass the Vacation Test this time? Let’s unpack what happened, the unexpected and the surprisingly smooth moments, plus how you can prepare your business to run without you. Watch now to find out if I survived… and if my business did too!

Could your business survive without you for a week? Could YOU survive without checking in? In this episode, I take The Vacation Test—a three-part challenge designed to reveal if your business is truly set up for freedom. The rules? No work calls. No "just checking in" texts. No scrambling to catch up when you get back. I thought I had this in the bag… but what happened on my trip to Marrakesh might surprise you. Did I pass or fail? And, more importantly, would YOU pass? Come find out.   Mentioned In This Episode: Stanford research on productivity Harvard Business Review study on workplace well-being Microsoft’s four-day workweek findings Moroccan Food Adventures Flightographer travel photography services  

Can your business pass The Vacation Test? If stepping away for a week (or more!) feels impossible without chaos erupting, this episode is a must-watch. I’m breaking down why vacations actually grow your business (yes, really!), the three-question test that reveals if your business is truly set up for freedom, and the exact steps to make sure you can unplug without the stress. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more strategies to run your business like a true Modern CEO!   Mentioned In This Episode: ScribeHow: Automate SOP documentation Loom: Easily record and share screen walkthroughs

Google is out here doing the most—and you’re probably not even using half of what it can do. These five AI tools inside Google Suite will blow your mind and save you hours. Inbox zero in five minutes (yes, really) Scheduling meetings with one click (no back-and-forth nonsense) AI workflow productive hacks that keep you on track Best AI apps built right into Google (no extra downloads) The sneaky new Google Docs trick that makes SOPs actually usable Hit play now if you’re ready to ditch the busy work and start working smarter. PS: What’s your favorite productivity AI hack? Drop it in the comments!   Mentioned In The Episode: Inbox Zero in Five Minutes – Blog Post Google’s Built-in Meeting Scheduler Time Insights Feature in Google Calendar How to Use Google Shared Drive Google Docs’ New Tabs Feature

Ever feel like you're running on fumes and, instead of a superwoman cape, you're wearing a frayed “I’m fine” sign? Feeling burnt out but still trying to power through like a WiFi signal that only works when you stand on one leg in the corner of your kitchen? In this episode, we dive deep into burnout recovery, how to prevent burnout before it knocks you flat, and the sneaky signs of emotional burnout you might be ignoring. If your morning coffee looks at you like, “ I can’t help you,” we need to talk. Tune in as we break down real strategies to stay productive without running yourself into the ground.   Mentioned In This Episode: 2021 Study by the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology – Discusses predictors of burnout, including prolonged stress and lack of recovery time. American Psychological Association Research – Highlights that individuals who take regular breaks and prioritize self-care have higher productivity and greater satisfaction. Prioritize Everything Framework – A framework mentioned for prioritizing activities, available here. 

Ready to take control of your day, eliminate chaos, and actually get the important stuff done? Tune into today’s episode, where I spill the secrets to getting more done without losing your sanity. From entrepreneur productivity tips to time management skills that work, we’re covering it all.  Say goodbye to distractions, spinning your wheels, and guilt about protecting your time.

In this episode, I’m diving deep into a topic that’s been a total game-changer for my productivity: time blocking. But not just any old time blocking—I’m talking about a flexible, realistic, let’s-make-this-work-for-real-life kind of approach. We’re covering: Why deep work is 5x more productive than multitasking (science says so!) How Parkinson’s Law explains why you’re taking too long to finish things (hint: work expands to the time you give it) The magic of micro time blocks—because even 15 minutes can move the needle My exact scheduling shift that turned my scattered workday into an efficiency powerhouse And, of course, I’m sharing my best time management tips to help you take action now—so future you is high-fiving past you in just a few weeks.   Mentioned In This Episode: Amber's Instagram: @ambermccue Google Calendar

In this podcast episode, Amber McCue takes us behind the scenes of her goal-setting process for 2025, blending her entrepreneurial insights with the realities of solo parenting. She emphasizes a practical, flexible approach to planning that allows for both personal and professional growth, even amidst the chaos of life as a solo parent. Amber doesn’t lock herself into rigid, year-long plans. Instead, she prefers to set shorter 90-day goals that allow her to pivot when necessary. She breaks down her 12-month roadmap into manageable chunks, focusing on the essential activities, launches, and marketing campaigns for the year ahead. One of her key tips is aligning your personal life with your business goals. She talks about her year of solo parenting and the importance of clear communication with her team to ensure everything flows smoothly, both at home and at work. She also advises against over-complicating the process. Instead of meticulously planning every detail for an entire year, Amber suggests taking a more flexible approach with short-term plans that can be revised and updated as things evolve. Whether you’re launching a product, planning a vacation, or simply trying to get your work-life balance right, Amber’s strategy is all about managing your time, energy, and resources for maximum impact.   Mentioned In This Episode: Year End Checklist Business Brilliant by Lewis Schiff Company Values Fresh Start Workbook 90-Day Plan Template Planning 101

This podcast episode dives into practical strategies for goal setting and planning to maximize success. It acknowledges that life gets chaotic (hello, orthodontist appointments and surprise projects) and offers three steps to stay on track: Don't max out your calendar: Fill only 60–80% of your available time to allow for unexpected detours and magic moments. Schedule CEO time: Dedicate 20 minutes every Monday and Friday to review, plan, and adjust your week in alignment with your goals. Create a rainy-day plan: Have a go-to list of mood-boosting and focus-restoring activities for when motivation tanks or life throws curveballs. The ultimate message? Embrace simplicity, flexibility, and self-compassion to stay aligned with your goals while navigating life’s twists and turns.   Mentioned In This Episode: Templates for Achieving Goals The Modern CEO  

Amber McCue shares her tried-and-true strategy for turning your big, audacious yearly goals into manageable, bite-sized action steps. She introduces her 90-day and 6-week planning methods, detailing how these approaches help avoid overwhelm, maintain focus, and create momentum throughout the year. By breaking down goals into smaller, actionable steps and prioritizing milestones, listeners can achieve consistent progress while staying flexible for life's curveballs. Amber emphasizes the importance of simplicity, pacing, and aligning personal and business commitments.   Mentioned In This Episode: 90-Day Planning Template The Planathon Plan, Pivot, Profit Instagram Website

This podcast episode introduces a practical, flexible framework to prioritize tasks and achieve your goals more effectively. Using a four-box grid, you can evaluate various approaches based on ease and impact to identify the best starting points for your specific goals. Whether you're chasing the "fastest path to cash," deciding where to focus your marketing efforts, or mapping out your priorities for the next 90 days, this method simplifies decision-making. You can tailor your plans to your unique strengths and objectives by focusing on ease and impact. The episode also offers a free downloadable guide to help listeners put the framework into action.   Mentioned In This Episode: Prioritize Everything Model

The podcast dives into the importance of setting clear goals to kickstart the new year with intention and success. Only 8% of people achieve their New Year’s resolutions, but you can boost your odds by writing down your goals and sharing them with someone. The episode emphasizes using a goal card—a tangible tool to keep your goals visible and actionable throughout the year. Key steps include defining your goal, setting a deadline, identifying what you'll contribute to achieve it, and measuring success. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize focus, say no to distractions, and align daily actions with their big-picture goals.   Mentioned In This Episode: Dominican University Study by Dr. Gale Matthews (2015) Goals Done Worksheets

I can’t believe the sentence I’m about to write. Okay. Ready?    WELCOME to the last Right on Time podcast of 2023.    What? It’s been a year of incredible interviews, eye-opening conversations, and getting to hang out with you here every single week. I’ve loved every second. At the end, I have some big podcast news so be sure to stay tuned.    As I was preparing for this episode, I had several ideas and topics that came to mind. However, I’ve decided that I really want to talk with you all about what is happening here, what we are doing, and what I’ve been thinking through and reflecting on.    Many of my colleagues and fellow small business owners are reevaluating what exactly they want to do in this next season.    We also have a lot of rethinking and redesigning going on here. My team and I are working very closely together to bring back live experiences around How to Clone Yourself. Which is something we haven’t done in a long time, but we are so very excited about.    With this redesign we are doing, I’ve been reflecting on what we are doing and how we are doing it.    We are digging into that here in this episode. Be sure to grab a pen cause I have some amazing quotes headed your way.    Once you listen, be sure to let me know your thoughts, your 2024 plans, and how you’re going to put into action what we talk about here.    IN THIS EPISODE: Finding YOUR focus  Getting in alignment with yourself and your motivations  Scenario planning to escape the what-ifs  Keeping it simple to get what you want to be    Thank you so much for listening and being on this podcast journey with us. We will be back soon. However, we will be taking a short pause to reflect and revamp the Right on Time Podcast.    Be sure to send us any topic or guest suggestions you have in the meantime. We would love to hear from you. 

I AM SO THRILLED TO HAVE YOU JOIN US FOR THIS EPISODE WHERE AMBER TAKES YOU ON A PERSONAL JOURNEY OF SELF-DISCOVERY, UNPACKING THE INTERSECTION OF MOVEMENT, ENTREPRENEURSHIP, AND WELLNESS. From navigating the intricate dance between entrepreneurship and migraines to redefining her approach to fitness, Amber's narrative is anything but conventional. In this episode, she peels back the layers of her experiences, sharing how a slow-running revolution became a pivotal force in her wellness transformation. Amber's wellness story took an unexpected turn during a cross-country road trip, where movement and migraines collided in a symphony of self-discovery. As the miles unfolded, so did the profound realizations about the connection between physical activity, mindfulness, and the demands of entrepreneurial life. The “slow running revolution”, a concept that might seem counterintuitive to the hustle-centric world of entrepreneurship, became Amber's gateway to a more mindful approach to fitness. She unpacks how embracing slowness and intentional movement has not only reshaped her physical well-being but has also been a catalyst for a broader transformation in her entrepreneurial mindset. In this episode, Amber's journey unfolds like a map, detailing the twists, turns, and unexpected detours that led her to a profound revelation: the power of slow in shaping a healthier entrepreneurial life. From resisting the conventional norms of fitness to embracing resilience, Amber shares the raw, unfiltered account of her wellness revelation. Amber McCue's story is an inspiring testament to the idea that sometimes life throws you a curveball to guide you toward a new direction. Her breakdown became a game-changing breakthrough, and now she stands as a beacon of resilience and authenticity for others on their wellness journeys. Join us in this episode as Amber shares her story. If you're seeking inspiration and practical advice on navigating the intersections of wellness, entrepreneurship, and personal growth, this episode is a must-listen.   In This Episode:  Importance of starting slow Mindset shift from “exercise” to “movement” Wellness + entrepreneurship  Consistency is always key   Mentioned in this Episode:    Amber McCue’s Instagram    Walk/Run Training Mix   Nutritionist: I only have Elena's phone number, DM me on insta if you want her info.

Welcome to another episode of the Right on Time Podcast! Today, we have the incredible NJ Shelsby - she helps women gain control, eliminate distractions, and focus on what really matters so they can achieve a new level of success and work fewer hours along the way.  Let's dive into the dual challenges of external and internal struggles that often act as productivity roadblocks. NJ sheds light on the critical importance of tackling both fronts. External struggles, from constant distractions to decision fatigue, meet their match in NJ's strategies from this episode. Meanwhile, internal struggles are met with mindset-challenging solutions. NJ guides us through the art of identifying internal struggles, encouraging us to recognize resistance to behavior change as the compass pointing to these obstacles. We can’t wait to hear what you think!   In This Episode:  Address both external and internal struggles that hinder productivity. Challenge the belief that overwhelm is inevitable. Create a vision for a different work life and start taking steps to make it a reality. Overcoming overwhelm leads to clearer thinking and increased productivity. Highlights the importance of eliminating chaos-producing habits, such as keeping to-dos in your head.   Mentioned in this Episode:  njshelsby.com/get-out-of-overwhelm/ text.com

I am so excited to introduce you to Elizabeth Caran, the visionary owner of Outlander Travel, a full-service travel agency that specializes in crafting extraordinary leisure experiences, as we dive into the remarkable growth of her business and the profound significance of being immersed in diverse cultures and ways of life through travel.   Elizabeth is a client - I am a client of hers - and she is someone I deeply respect for who she is and how she runs her business. If you resonate with Elizabeth’s journey, and her results, book a call with us at ambermccue.com/bookmycall   In this episode, we explore the world of travel with Elizabeth but are going well beyond destinations. We dive into the heart of travel as a gateway to experiencing global cultures. Elizabeth shares her own awe-inspiring experiences, including the unforgettable safari she embarked on with her children. The memories they created were nothing short of magic, evoking laughter and deep reflection on the moments when their vacations seemed endless.   The path to success is often punctuated with challenges, and Elizabeth's journey is no exception. As the world grappled with the uncertainties brought on by the pandemic, Elizabeth confronted a series of obstacles. She is a travel agent suddenly in a world where travel was banned. She used this time as an opportunity for introspection, focusing on strategic planning and investing in her business.   Don't miss this conversation with Elizabeth. As we are in the midst of yet another uncertain time with inflation still on the rise, it’s time to get strategic with your planning just like Elizabeth did.   Ready to be captivated by her story of growth, resilience, and chasing her dreams? Give this episode a listen then let me know your thoughts. I can’t wait to hear from you.    In This Episode:  On a personal mission that drives results: Cultural immersion through travel The key ingredient: Why you need to be strategic in planning for your business It’s inevitable: Navigating highs and lows in business I so get it: Balancing business and family Mentioned in this Episode:    Focus Forward - a 2-Day Strategic Planning Retreat for Your Business   Outlander Travel 

I am so thrilled to have you join us for this episode where Jen and I take a deep dive into our personal journeys of self-discovery and uncovering our true callings. From pursuing passions like singing and acting to taking the stage as speakers, we're here to share how our life purposes unfolded in unexpected ways.   Jen's journey to becoming a successful jen entrepreneur was far from your typical, run-of-the-mill story. Before her company, Super Connector Media came to life, Jen was chasing her acting dreams right in the heart of New York City. Her relentless dedication paid off big time when she snagged a role in the Broadway National Tour of The Wedding Singer. Then she landed a role on a VH-1 TV Series. Then her show got axed, and her unfaithful boyfriend made a hasty exit, it was like the universe handed her a hot mess on a silver platter. But Jen, being the resilient soul she is, turned her breakdown into a game-changing breakthrough. She realized that sometimes life throws you a curveball to push you in a new direction. That's when she decided it was time to step into her own spotlight, shine brightly, and let the world see the real her. Fast forward to today, Jen has been a guiding light for thousands of business owners, coaches, and experts. She's helped them find the confidence and skills they need to uncover their passions, be their authentic selves, and stand confidently in their own glow. If you're in search of inspiration and practical advice on finding your purpose, taking meaningful action, forging connections, and embracing personal growth, then this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we lay bare our own stories and offer insights that will leave you feeling motivated and fully prepared to initiate positive changes in your own life.   Don't hesitate! Hit that play button right now and let this episode become the catalyst for your own transformation and fulfillment. We promise you won't want to miss it!   In This Episode:  Finding true purpose Embracing vulnerability and being true to oneself Personal transformation and embracing imperfections Taking action and finding clarity Importance of connection and building relationships   Mentioned in this Episode:    Connect with Jen   Jen’s New Book: BE SEEN: Find Your Voice. Build Your Brand. Live Your Dream  Join us inside the Planathon! Happening right now!

Get ready to dive into an exciting new episode where we chat with Julie, the brilliant author behind the recently released book, A Few Good Habits. This passion project of hers combines her years of research on stress reduction and achieving big goals without burning out. So, if you've been feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice on habits and high performance, this episode is for you!   Julie breaks it all down for us, sharing the four simple but powerful habits that can make all the difference in reducing stress and optimizing our lives. And the best part? It doesn't require a massive life makeover. The name of the book, A Few Good Habits, perfectly encapsulates the approach – no overwhelming changes necessary.   In This Episode:  Julie’s New Book, A Few Good Habits A few science-backed habits to give a try How to fit into these habits when life gets in the way Creating a plan and not relying on willpower to stick to your habits   So, what are you waiting for? Don't miss out on this transformative (and practical!) episode. Whether you're striving for peak performance or looking to reduce stress in your life, A Few Good Habits is your guide to success. Tune in now and start implementing these game-changing habits. Your future self will thank you!   Mentioned in this Episode:    Read the first Chapter of Julie’s Book FREE   RSVP for The Planathon

This is a shift that will enhance focus and clarity for everyone involved. The Planathon is an event specifically designed to help entrepreneurs plan for the upcoming year and avoid overwhelm. We know how many choices and options there are in the business world, and it's easy to get stuck in confusion and inaction. That's why strategic planning is essential to reach our goals in a straight line with less distraction. Now in its 11th year, the Planathon has become a must-attend event for business owners looking to achieve their desired results. And this year, we've made some incredible changes that will help you get clarity and focus faster. Bye-bye overwhelm!  Let's talk about the Planathon itself. It all started as five days with me as your guide, inviting experts to share their knowledge. We focused on current trends and released videos hourly for those five days. It was an incredible experience, but this year, we're taking things to the next level. This year's Planathon will be live, interactive, and truly different from previous years. You'll get to experience breakout rooms and connect with fellow entrepreneurs during the event. And if you can't make it live, you can still engage in the comments and be a part of the action. So, if you're in a season of change and looking to reevaluate your business or life, this is the perfect opportunity. It's time to refocus on your strategic plan and set yourself up for better results and value. We're already thinking about 2024, so let's plan strategically at the Planathon. Be focused, intentional, and ahead of the game. I'll see you there!   In This Episode:  Calculating ROI and Marketing an Event What is the Planthon and who is for? Exciting shifts inside The Planathon   Mentioned in this Episode:    RSVP for The Planathon   For simple opt-in pages! Lead Pages   For building an email list FloDesk

We are talking all about how to set up a revenue-generating event for your business. This is going to be a two-part episode, and today, we're kicking things off by taking you behind the scenes of an event very close to my heart – The Planathon. For the past decade (yes, this marks our 11th year), we've been hosting an annual planning event for entrepreneurs known as The Planathon. Maybe you've been part of it; maybe you haven't. If you haven't, now's your chance – head over to theplanathon.com to RSVP; it's just around the corner. I'm thrilled to have you here with me as we chat about the ins and outs of this event. Whether you're thinking about hosting your own event or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes, this conversation is for you. In this episode, I'll give you a sneak peek into the backstory and behind-the-scenes details of The Planathon. And in our next episode, I'll reveal where we're headed in the future.   In This Episode:  Have a clear purpose for your revenue-generating event. Don't be afraid to start small; everyone has to begin somewhere. Choosing tech tools that are simple and user-friendly for you and your team. Craft an experience that allows you to generate revenue immediately. Give people advanced notice – it's a game-changer.   Mentioned in this Episode:    RSVP for The Planathon   For simple opt-in pages! Lead Pages   For building an email list FloDesk