Soul Leaders® Podcast with Mills Gray

Join me and my guest expert Sam Whisnant as we dive deep into the world of systems that actually work for coaches and service providers. Sam breaks down the simplicity behind automation, shares her favorite time-saving tools, and reveals how proper systems can bring you more income while giving you back your time. This is all about scalable offers, automated sales, and building a lean team that works.Key Topics CoveredIn this conversation, we explore:Why systems aren't as complicated as you think - Sam demystifies automation for nervous business ownersThe time-saving systems every coach needs - Practical tools that have saved Sam hundreds of hoursBuilding scalable offers - How to create services that grow without eating all your timeAutomated sales strategies - Setting up systems that sell while you sleepRunning a lean team effectively - Getting more done with less overwhelmSam's non-negotiable system - The one tool she absolutely cannot live withoutLet's ConnectCome find me on Instagram @mills_gray and share your thoughts. I love hearing how these episodes land with you! Connect with Sam: https://systemswithsam.com/For the full show notes and more resources head over to https://www.millsgray.com/systems-that-scale-how-to-save-hundreds-of-hours-and-make-more-money-with-sam-whisnant/Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee because I'm getting on my soapbox today! This is one of those "someone needs to say this" episodes. If you've been beating yourself up because a client isn't getting results, blaming yourself for their lack of implementation, or taking on responsibility for their choices - this episode is going to give you the reality check you need. Let's talk about what's actually YOUR job and what isn't.Key Topics CoveredIn this truth-bomb episode, I dive into:The responsibility trap - Why coaches and service providers take on too much ownership of client resultsWhat is (and isn't) your job - Clear boundaries on your role vs. their roleThe real problem - How your ideal client definition and marketing language might be attracting the wrong peopleThe emotional cost - Burnout, resentment, imposter syndrome, and guiltHow to have the conversation - Scripts for addressing clients who aren't implementingWhat to do next - Practical steps to shift this patternMy Digital Course - SOAR  https://www.millsgray.com/work-with-me/courses/how-to-become-magnetic-in-your-marketing/Let's ConnectCome find me on Instagram @mills_gray and share your thoughts. I love hearing how these episodes land with you!For the full show notes and more resources head over to https://www.millsgray.com/stop-taking-responsibility-for-your-clients-inaction/Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee for a proper BTS today! I'm pulling back the curtain on my year-long mastermind experience - the wins, the revelations, and why I've decided to leave. This wasn't breath work and sound healing, this was proper business graft with 10 ambitious business owners, good food and great company. If you've ever wondered what really happens at those business retreats or how six-figure business owners actually structure their lives, this episode is for you.Key Topics CoveredReal transformation over a year in a mastermindWhy money mindset issues don't disappear at six figuresThe pricing revelation: doubling prices that TRIPLED salesWhy successful business owners become their own bottleneckBeing the oldest in the room and what success really meansKintsugi and the metaphor for business fracturesHow your peers take you to unexpected destinationsLet's ConnectCome find me on Instagram @mills_gray and share your thoughts. I love hearing how these episodes land with you!For the full show notes and more resources head over to https://www.millsgray.com/behind-the-curtain-what-really-happens-in-a-year-long-mastermind/Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in for this one! Today I'm diving into something that's been coming up repeatedly with my clients - and maybe you're nodding along too. We're talking about when your business is objectively successful (clients are happy, revenue is good), but you're absolutely exhausted. If you've been feeling like your business has grown but your boundaries haven't, this episode is exactly what you need.Key Topics CoveredIn this honest and practical episode, I explore:The exhaustion paradox - Why you can feel burnt out even when business is "working"Your old business model's emotional cost - The hustle mindset that got you here but is now holding you backThe maintenance trap - What you're unnecessarily maintaining that's draining your energyThree powerful audit questions to reveal what needs to changeReal-life boundary examples - How holding boundaries helps both you AND your clientsWhy structure equals relief - Not rigidityLet's ConnectCome find me on Instagram @mills_gray and share your thoughts. I love hearing how these episodes land with you!For the full show notes and more resources head over to www.millsgray.com/is-your-business-working-for-you-or-are-you-working-for-your-businessMentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and join me for this deeply moving conversation with David Linaker - a man who's mastered the art of pivoting without losing his soul. From ordained clergy to celebrant, coach, and author, David shares how he's navigated life's biggest transitions by staying anchored to his core essence. We dive into grief work, inner child healing, and why your 7-year-old might be grabbing the steering wheel more than you realize!Key Topics CoveredIn this soul-stirring episode, we explore:The Art of Authentic PivotingHow David defines a pivot as "moving around a still point" - your essenceWhy he still considers himself a priest despite no longer believing in GodThe difference between changing what you do vs. changing who you areMoving from controlling everything in clergy to adapting in the commercial wedding worldHolding Space in Grief and LossHow David becomes "the safe person in the room" during funeralsWhy grief strips your mask off and leaves you "naked in the public square"The two patterns he sees: those who engage vs. those who armor upWrapping "the arms of your soul" around people in painPowerful Inner Child WorkHow childhood trauma (especially ages 7 and 13-14) drives adult behaviorDavid's guided meditation technique for reconnecting with your younger selfThe Viktor Frankl gap: creating space between stimulus and responseWhy your inner child might be "grabbing the steering wheel" during triggersFrom Spiritual Service to Business RealityThe challenge of pricing in spiritual/wellness spaces (hello, inner child pricing fears!)Using AI tools like ChatGPT to nail your niche and messagingTikTok as David's modern "pulpit" for sharing wisdomThe difference between being "nice" (no boundaries) vs. "kind" (healthy boundaries)Resources MentionedWebsite: https://www.davidlinaker.com/life-after-religionBooks: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B0DY8D1RD7TikTok: @davidlinaker_spiritstoryLet's ConnectCome find me on Instagram @mills_gray and share your thoughts. I love hearing how these episodes land with you!For full show notes and more resources head over to www.millsgray.com/the-inner-child-running-your-business-whether-you-know-it-or-not-with-david-linaker.Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in because today we're diving into something that comes up constantly with my clients - and if I'm honest, something I've struggled with too. We're talking about pricing that shifts based on how you're feeling that day, and why that's keeping you from building the scalable business you deserve.This week's client calls brought this topic front and centre - when your pricing depends on confidence levels, the size of the business you're pitching to, or just a "feeling" you have, it's time for a deeper conversation. Let's transform that chaos into clarity.Key Topics CoveredIn this honest episode, I explore:Why emotional pricing keeps your business unstable (and how to fix it)The real cost of charging less to be "kind" - to yourself and your clientsHow to embody your pricing so it reflects your energy, experience, and business modelSetting boundaries around discounting and managing client expectationsThe importance of transparent pricing on your website (goodbye, "jump on a call to find out")Creating pricing tiers that serve different clients AND keep your business excitingLet's Connect!Ready to audit your pricing and offers? DM me @mills_gray to chat about working togetherBusiness consultancy options (November spot or January start)FREE PRIVATE PODCAST: The 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable GrowthFor more resources & full show notes head over to https://www.millsgray.com/when-your-pricing-changes-with-your-mood-the-real-talk-about-emotional-pricing/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Hey, it's Mills! Welcome to Soul Leaders - your weekly dose of real business talk. Can you believe we're basically at the end of 2025? (Yes, I'm one of those people who uses the year in random passwords, don't judge me.)This episode is coming at you right at the beginning of November, and I've got some BIG news to share. Like, pinch-me-is-this-real news. Plus, we're talking about why November is YOUR month to sell before the December lull, so buckle up!Key Topics CoveredIn this behind-the-scenes episode, I share:The spiritual nudges that finally got me to commit (spoilers: EVERYONE has been telling me to do this)Why I'm NOT writing a boring-ass business bookMy unconventional writing process (no retreats, just snatched moments and late-night creativity)The dream team helping bring this to lifeLaunch timeline: Q2 2025 (thinking May-ish)Why November is THE month to sell your offersMy November strategy (hint: no Black Friday here!)Three-Day Telegram Coaching Event - 10th NovemberMe in your pocket for three days of intensive coaching: https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/O9p2071£111 for the whole experiencePerfect if you're wondering why strategy, marketing, or sales just isn't quite workingCome say hi on Instagram @mills_gray!For full show notes and more resources head over to https://www.millsgray.com/im-writing-a-bloody-book-plus-your-november-selling-strategy/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in, because today we're diving into something I've been noticing over and over again with my clients - the ones who get the fastest, most incredible results aren't the ones who hustle harder or work more hours. They're the ones who trust themselves enough to move quickly when something clicks. If you've been sitting on a decision, waiting for the "perfect moment," or confusing thinking with preparing, this episode is going to be a wake-up call you didn't know you needed.Special Announcement 🎉I'm hosting a 3-Day Coaching Event on 10th November via Telegram! Think of it as having me in your pocket for three full days, helping you get clarity on your offers, ideal client, and business alignment. No Black Friday nonsense - just pure, focused coaching for £111. https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/O9p2071Key Topics CoveredIn this straight-talking episode, I explore:The difference between rushing and resonance: Why panic-driven speed kills, but alignment-driven speed winsThe myth of perfect timing: Why waiting for all your ducks to be in a row is actually costing you resultsReal client success stories: From Amy's retreat selling out in 24 hours to ad tweaks that converted immediatelyThe "I've been watching you for two years" phenomenon: What actually changed wasn't my offer - it was their self-trustDecision-making energy: How the quality of your decisions matters more than working more hoursThe Libra daughter analogy: Why some people naturally trust their gut (hello, Manifestors!) while others dance with decisionsBusiness vs. life decisions: My hedge drama and podcast trademark story as examples of quick actionLet's Connect!Come say hi on Instagram @mills_gray - I love hearing what resonates with you from these episodes!Ready to stop sitting on the fence? Join my 3-Day Coaching Event on 10th November for £111. Link in show notes. I promise you won't regret making this decision quickly. 😉 https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/O9p2071For full show notes and more resources head over to https://www.millsgray.com/the-speed-of-alignment-why-fast-movers-win/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in for this powerful conversation with mindset and performance coach Oli Cooke! We're diving deep into the real talk about anxiety, subconscious beliefs, and how to scale your business without burning out. If you've ever felt like your mind is working against your ambitions, or wondered why success feels so exhausting, this episode is exactly what you need.Key Topics CoveredIn this transformative episode, we explore:The courage to collaborate: Why asking for what you want in business matters (and how to handle rejection without taking it personally)Oli's journey from Vietnam to entrepreneurship: How living abroad challenged beliefs that were holding him back in businessThe teacher identity trap: Unlearning "give everything for free" and perfectionism beliefs that don't serve entrepreneursSubconscious work that actually works: Understanding why meditation and breathwork alone weren't enough to shift lifelong anxietyThe reality of morning anxiety: Oli's raw story of waking up feeling like he'd had three espressos every single dayRapid Root Level Shifts method: How combining NLP, metaphor, and precise language creates lasting transformationEducational content vs. connection: Why giving too much value can actually position you wrong and keep people from buyingHigh performance AND high fulfillment: The philosophy that you don't have to sacrifice presence for ambitionLet's Connect with Oli!Loved this episode? Share it to your stories and tag both @mills_gray and @olicooke.coaching - we'd love to hear what resonated with you!For full show notes & more resources head over to www.millsgray.com/breaking-free-from-business-anxiety-with-oli-cookeMentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Hey there! Pull up a chair because today I'm taking you completely behind the curtain of my launch process. We're going from initial spark of an idea all the way through to hitting publish on a sales page. If you're someone who has brilliant ideas but struggles to actually execute them, or you're wondering where your next offer should come from - this episode is made for you.Exciting Announcement 🎉I'm hosting What Am I Missing? - a 3-day Telegram audit intensive on November 10th for just £111. This is your chance to get proper one-on-one attention from me without the full consultancy investment. Only a handful of spaces available! https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/O9p2071Key Topics CoveredIn this behind-the-scenes episode, I reveal:My strategic framework for deciding what to launch next - spoiler: it's not just following what everyone else is doingHow to choose between free vs paid offers and what serves your business goalsThe difference between lead generation, cash injection, and nurture-focused offersMy complete process from idea spark to sales page creationWhy I chose a 3-day Telegram group over a traditional workshopLaunch timing strategy - including how to navigate busy periods like Black FridayContent planning for launches - no winging it here!The truth about waitlists - when they work and when they don'tFeatured Offer: What Am I Missing?This 3-day intensive is for business owners whose businesses aren't broken - you're experiencing traction and growth, but something feels slightly off. Perfect if you:Have hit publish and gotten okay-ish resultsFeel like you're slightly outgrowing your current offersAre selling out of habit rather than strategyHave systems that only work when you're "really fucking on it"Are attracting clients who don't feel like your next-level matchWhat You'll Get:3 days of guided reflection with direct access to meFocus on your offers, systems, and ideal clientNo fluff, no modules to sit through - just proper coachingThe "Mills magic" that my clients always mentionPreparation to smash Q1 2025Investment: £111 Dates: November 10-12, 2025Let's Connect!Come DM me on Instagram @mills_gray if you have questions about launching your own offers or about What Am I Missing! I promise I don't hold back - you get the full Mills experience even before you work with me.For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.millsgray.com/behind-the-scenes-from-idea-to-launch-how-i-create-launch-offers/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Welcome back! Fair warning - I actually had to re-record this episode because the first take just wasn't flowing. Sometimes you need to press stop, move your body, and start fresh. That's exactly what I did, and here we are for take two!Special Announcement for November! 🎉What Am I Missing? My 3-day Telegram intensive launches November 10th for just £111. This is specifically designed to eliminate every excuse and close the gap between wanting and doing. No live calls, no travel, no pressure - just three days of proper coaching with me in your pocket. https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/O9p2071 Let's work together:DM me 'What Am I Missing' on Instagram @mills_grayJoin the community: facebook group mind your mindsetWebsite: www.millsgray.comTopics Covered on Stop Saying "Next Time":The "I wish I'd been there" pattern that keeps repeating after every event I runWhy "next time" never actually comes and what's really holding you backThe truth about fear disguised as "not being ready"A mini audit to identify your excuse patterns (5 powerful questions)My own example of putting off a business task for 6 monthsHow we block our own businesses by staying in "wanting mode"The three-day breakdown of What Am I Missing? intensiveListener Request!I need YOUR help to make this podcast even better:Come say hi in my DMs - yes, I actually respond!Tell me what kind of business you have (service-based, product, bricks and mortar?)Let me know who you'd love to hear as a guest on the podcastShare what issues keep showing up for youThis is my second full year of weekly podcasts (plus podcast challenges!), and I want to make sure I'm creating content that truly serves you.For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.millsgray.com/stop-saying-next-time-why-you-keep-missing-opportunities-and-what-to-do-about-it/

Grab your coffee and let's talk about something that's probably killing your content engagement without you even realizing it. Mills dives into the dangerous trap of over-giving in your content - whether it's those epic 1000-word posts that get two likes or clarity calls where you give everything away for free. If you've ever written a post thinking "this will be so helpful" only to have it completely ignored, this episode is your wake-up call.September Wrap-Up HighlightsMills shares updates from a successful September, including being nearly fully booked (reminder: this doesn't happen all the time!) and hosting The Rebuild Room - an intimate 10-person event at the Copper Club in Guildford. Despite unexpected marble fitting disruptions (complete with drills and hoovers behind a "thick velvet curtain"), the day was transformational, focusing on vision realignment and energy audits.The Over-Giving Trap: Why More Isn't BetterThe Problem with "Giving More Equals More Value"You think you're being helpful by writing those epic, information-packed posts, but here's what's actually happening:People get used to your free helpful content and don't see a need to pay youYou're creating overwhelmed audiences who scroll pastYou're devaluing your paid offerings (if you're giving everything away free, what's left for paying clients?)You're positioning yourself as a free information source instead of a transformation partnerThe "So What?" TestAfter writing any piece of content, ask yourself: "So what?"What's the ONE thing they need to do?If someone reads this and takes action, what's the ONE thing they'll do?If you can't answer in one sentence, you've given too muchBecome magnetic in your marketing https://www.millsgray.com/work-with-me/courses/how-to-become-magnetic-in-your-marketing/Rewild retreat epsiode https://www.millsgray.com/the-power-of-pivoting-when-something-doesnt-feel-right/Coming Up in OctoberMills has a bank of guest expert interviews ready to roll, but she wants to hear from you - who would you love to hear on the Soul Leaders podcast? DM your suggestions @mills_gray.For full show notes and more resources head over to https://www.millsgray.com/stop-over-giving-in-your-content-youre-drowning-your-audience/Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in for this raw conversation with Jo Hooper, founder of GetWildlyFree. From two mental health breakdowns that ended her corporate career to building a business that actually serves her life (not the other way around), Jo shares the real talk about boundaries, burnout, and why rest doesn't fix everything. This episode is for anyone who's tired of working all the damn hours and ready to design a business that energizes rather than exhausts them.Key Topics CoveredThe Reality of Burnout and BreakdownWhy rest doesn't fix burnout - you have to change what burnt you out in the first placeThe difference between burnout and actual breakdown ("nervous breakdown")How thought patterns like "I need to prove myself" drive destructive behaviorsJo's recovery journey: traditional therapy, medication, and later embracing alternative therapies like Reiki and sound bathsThe Permission Slaps SystemJo's innovative approach to interrupting habitual behaviors:10 two-minute audio recordings for moments when you're about to break your own boundariesExamples: "Put the phone down now," "Take the day off," "You can sit and read your book"Creating neurological speed bumps (like moving the Instagram app on your phone)Why habits are like muscle memory - both physical and cognitiveBuilding Sustainable Business BoundariesJo's current structure:Working 4-6 hours per day maximumCall days only on Tuesdays and Thursdays (two calls max per day)Available to clients on Voxer only Tuesdays and ThursdaysNo calls before 10:30am or after 4pmFridays completely call-freeThe "Me First" MethodJo's framework for transformation:Beliefs: Identifying limiting thoughts like "If I want to earn more, I have to work more"Decisions: What choices are you making from those beliefs?Actions: How are you perpetuating the cycle through your daily behaviors?Challenging Common Business MythsWhy "if I'm not working really hard, I'm lazy" is capitalist conditioningThe false belief that difficulty equals valueHow to separate revenue from profit when evaluating "success"Why authenticity in marketing matters more than being "vanilla"Let's Connect!Come say hi in my Instagram DMs @mills_gray.For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.millsgray.com/breaking-burnout-and-building-boundaries-with-jo-hooper/

Grab your coffee and settle in for some real talk! Today I'm diving into something that affects 99.9% of my clients (and probably you too) - the exhausting cycle of constantly reacting in your business instead of having a strategic plan. If you're tired of Wednesday panic mode, dropping everything to answer every message, or scrambling to figure out what to post on Instagram, this episode is exactly what you need.Key Topics CoveredIn this game-changing episode, I explore:The difference between reactive and responsive business - and why one serves you while the other burns you outWhat a reactive business actually looks like - putting out fires, dropping everything for every message, and living in constant "what do I need to do this week?" modeThe dangers of over-planning - why spending more time color-coding spreadsheets than actually doing the work is just perfectionism in disguiseMy proven framework: Quarterly intentions + Monthly focus + Weekly flexibilityWhy generators and manifesting generators struggle with rigid planning - and what works better for your energy typeThe power of a weekly business scan - one hour that will save you countless hours of scramblingLet's Connect!Come say hi in my Instagram DMs @mills_gray. - I love hearing how these strategies land with you! And if this episode resonated, please share it to your stories and tag me for a happy dance.Don't forget to rate and review the podcast - it helps other business owners find these insights too!For full show notes and more resources visit www.millsgray.com/are-you-running-a-reactive-business-finding-your-sweet-spot-between-planning-and-reacting/Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in for some real talk about something that might sound like the dream scenario but could actually be holding your business back. Today I'm diving into why having ALL your clients come from referrals can become a trap that keeps you plateaued, overworked, and unable to scale. If you've been wondering why you feel like the bottleneck in your own business, this episode will give you the roadmap to break free.Exciting Announcement 🎉I've got an in-person mastermind day happening on September 18th in Guildford! We'll be working on your offers, turning those brilliant ideas in your phone notes into viable business plans, plus Charlotte Nixon from Aligned Body and Stars will be sharing how to use astrology to your business advantage. Only £150 including lunch - DM me ASAP if this sounds like your vibe! https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/rebuildKey Topics CoveredIn this game-changing episode, I explore:Why 100% referrals can become your business prisonHow being "irreplaceable" is actually limiting your growthThe language shifts that position you as an agency owner, not a solopreneurPractical strategies to audit what you can delegate vs. what needs your personal touchReal examples of how to reframe client conversations from day oneLet's Connect!Come say hi in my Instagram DMs @mills_gray. - I love hearing from regular listeners and getting to know who's tuning in each week. If this episode resonated, share it to your stories and tag me for a happy dance! For full show notes and more resources visit https://www.millsgray.com/are-you-the-bottleneck-in-your-own-business-how-to-stop-being-your-most-expensive-employee/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee because today I'm getting controversial! I'm diving deep into why Monthly Recurring Revenue (MRR) has become the biggest lie in the online business world. If you've ever felt pressured to create a membership or wondered why your "stable" recurring revenue is causing you more anxiety than freedom, this episode will challenge everything you've been told about building a sustainable business.Special Announcement 🎉I'm hosting The Rebuild Room - an intimate in-person event on September 18th in Guildford! This isn't another tactics-heavy business event. It's a recalibration day for successful women who feel like something is off. Limited to 10 people, includes lunch, guest astrologer, and is priced at just £150 to be accessible. A few spaces remain!Key Topics CoveredIn this truth-telling episode, I explore:The MRR Myth Exposed:Why monthly recurring revenue promises freedom but often delivers anxietyThe hidden costs nobody talks about - both financial AND energeticHow retention anxiety replaces launch anxiety (same stress, different outfit)The Real Energy Economics:What it costs you energetically to create content for disengaged membersThe exhaustion of constantly proving your worth to people who've already paidWhy you end up nurturing people who don't engage instead of serving those who doThe Identity Trap:How building a membership locks you into a specific version of yourselfWhat happens when you evolve but have 200 people expecting you to stay the sameThe stifling feeling of being trapped in a personality you've outgrownThe Comparison Spiral:Why seeing MRR milestones on Instagram makes you question your entire business modelHow the membership obsession started around 2018 and became the "answer" to every business problemThe reality behind those "passive revenue" claimsLet's Connect!Come find me in the DMs on Instagram @mills_gray. if this resonated - I love having real conversations about building businesses that actually serve you, not drain you.For more resources and full show notes visit https://www.millsgray.com/why-mrr-became-the-biggest-lie-in-business-breaking-down-monthly-recurring-anxiety/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and prepare for some truth bombs! Mills is calling out the coaching pyramid that's keeping brilliant business owners trapped in performance mode instead of building actual sustainable businesses. If you've ever felt that little niggle whispering "surely this isn't it," this episode will validate everything you've been feeling. It's time to stop performing credibility and start building businesses that work beyond your personal brand.Key Topics CoveredIn this no-bullshit episode, Mills explores:The coaching pyramid explained - how coaches teaching coaches who coach coaches creates an endless loop of regurgitationWhy income screenshots aren't strategy - they're performance marketing disguised as credibilityThe difference between survival business vs. sustainable business - and why brilliant women get trapped in the formerEnergy-first business design - building around your actual patterns, not what you think you should doMills' shift to strategic consultancy - working inside the engine, not just offering containersHow to vet mentors and programs - essential questions before your next investmentLet's Connect!If this episode resonated and you're ready to explore consultancy work that focuses on building businesses around your actual energy and strengths, hit up Mills in the DMs @mills_gray. She's looking to work with brilliant women who are done being the bottleneck in their own success.For more resources and full show notes visit https://www.millsgray.com/breaking-free-from-the-coaching-pyramid-why-im-shifting-to-strategic-consultancy/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Pour yourself a coffee and settle in for this inspiring conversation with Suzie, one of my original Soul Leaders group coaching clients from 2020! We're diving deep into her incredible business transformation - from interior design to creating The Shoot Academy, teaching people how to turn their homes into profitable shoot locations. This is a masterclass in recognizing opportunities, pivoting with purpose, and building a business around what truly sparks joy.Key Topics CoveredThe Lightning Bolt Moment:How a casual pub conversation (post-lockdown sunshine!) sparked a complete business pivotRecognizing when people keep asking you the same questions - there might be a business opportunityThe power of following what genuinely excites you versus what you think you "should" doWhat is Shoot Location Hosting:Renting your home as a backdrop for brands, photographers, TV productions, and creative teamsWhy "regular" homes often book more than grand properties (think Adolescence vs Rivals!)How any house - even just a brick wall or garden shed - can have potentialEarning up to £1,500 per day without leaving your homeBuilding The Shoot Academy:Creating an online course to teach the A-Z of becoming a shoot location hostThe importance of community in digital productsWhy they moved from interior design to this new venturehttps://www.instagram.com/theshootacademy/The Pricing Revolution:Their bold move from £349 upfront to £49 + £300 success fee modelWhy "passive" business models aren't actually passiveBuilding trust through shared success rather than upfront investmentThe psychology behind risk-reversal pricing strategiesGetting Your First Clients:How Instagram showcasing led to organic demandThe power of networking and personal connections over digital marketingWhy enthusiasm for your topic converts better than any sales strategyLet's Connect!This conversation reminded me why I loved the group coaching format - the energy, the peer learning, the celebration of each other's wins. While I'm focused on one-to-one coaching now, there's something magical about watching someone's business unfold from idea to execution. Drop me a DM if this episode sparked any ideas about pivoting your own business or recognizing opportunities right in front of you!For more resources and full show notes visit https://www.millsgray.com/from-soul-leaders-to-shoot-locations-suzies-business-evolution/Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD

Grab your coffee and settle in for an inspiring conversation! Mills sits down with Courtenay, who has built an incredibly engaged Instagram community of 30,000 followers through radical honesty and authentic communication. If you've ever wondered how to build real engagement (not just vanity metrics) or how to navigate the tricky relationship between spirituality and money, this episode is pure gold.Meet Courtenay PipkinCourtenay is a yoga teacher, business owner, and manifesto generator who has created something truly special - a thriving online community built on honest conversations about the realities of teaching yoga. She's proof that you don't need to be controversial for the sake of it; you just need to be authentically you.For more resources and full show notes head over to https://www.millsgray.com/the-honest-yoga-teacher-building-authentic-community-business-with-courtenay-pipkin/ Key Topics CoveredIn this engaging conversation, Mills and Courtenay explore:Building authentic engagement on Instagram - why 30K followers with real community beats 100K passive followersThe "accidental sale" - how Mills sold to Courtenay without even realizing itManifestor human design in business - riding the creative highs and honoring the hermit phasesMoney and spirituality - navigating the yoga industry's complicated relationship with abundanceBuilding business in reverse - creating products for an existing engaged audienceAffordable accessibility - serving your community without undervaluing yourselfLet's Connect!Come find Mills on Instagram @mills_gray and you can find Courtenay under @thehonestyogateacher

Grab your coffee and settle in for one of the most raw and honest episodes yet! Mills takes you behind the scenes of her recent "Leo recalibration" - a powerful astrological deep dive that's completely shifting how she shows up in business. If you've ever felt like you're building from survival mode rather than your true brilliance, or if you're ready to stop apologizing for your expertise, this episode will hit you right in the soul.Exciting Announcement 🎉In-Person Event Alert! Mills is hosting an intimate workshop in Guildford on September 18th focused on rebuilding your marketing and offers. Only 3-4 spaces available - this is going to be absolutely juicy! Don't let summer be an excuse - get your September sorted! Rebuild https://millsgray.kartra.com/page/rebuild?kuid=74196e43-fe40-4469-b268-1d04c7954a72-1747736029&lid=184&kref=lz2G357Lu0lF Key Topics CoveredIn this deeply personal and transformational episode, Mills explores:The difference between survival genius and authentic brilliance - and why she's done building from the formerMoney trauma patterns inherited from family dynamics and how they show up in businessMasculine vs feminine energy in business - why her water sign-ruled work houses are calling for more flowStepping into expert authority without apology after 18 years in the gameThe pivot from strategy fixing to pattern recognition and consultancy workLetting go of arbitrary control while maintaining strategic leadershipLet's Connect!Come find Mills on Instagram and tell her how this episode landed for you - she loves those deep DM conversations!Share this episode to your stories and tag @mills_gray if it resonated.connect with Charlotte https://www.alignedbodyandstars.com/soulstice?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwMBGwtleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp1D-zESnDJ7XaFcUKS_jIFQsqH5jrfCLAFa2p9s0fGSpUzVB6JyE-tDJsXc4_aem_UnnUOJZ3dNXkJpObUQxDcwFor more resources and full show notes visit https://www.millsgray.com/the-leo-recalibration-from-survival-genius-to-authentic-authority/ Mentioned in this episode:Bottleneck to Breakthrough Private PodcastThe 3-Day Private Podcast to Restructure Your Business for Clean, Scalable Growth If your business works, but only because you do, this free private podcast is your next chapter. You didn’t build this to hustle harder. You built it to feel easier. Let’s make that real. Bottleneck to Breakthrough AD