The Next Step Podcast with Alison Simmons

What would you say to your "January 2024" self if you could go back in time? In this deeply personal episode, I share my reflections on the past year, both my triumphs and challenges, and why “Build It Anyway” is my mantra for 2025. You’ll hear about my journey from barely scraping by with two clients to achieving my dream of consistent $10K months, and why I ultimately decided to dismantle that business to pursue something even more aligned with my values and vision. Get ready to feel inspired, reflective, and motivated to tackle your own goals for 2025, no matter how uncertain the path ahead seems. Topics I Cover: Lessons from Reflection: I share how a simple LinkedIn post about advising my January 2024 self sparked a deep reflection on the year’s successes, failures, and unexpected lessons. Behind the Scenes of Entrepreneurship: Insights from major entrepreneurs reveal the hidden costs of success, like health struggles and intense stress, which inspired me to reframe my approach to business and life. The Value of Pursuing Goals Anyway: Even though I didn’t find the house my family dreamed of, the search led to unforgettable experiences, like a life-changing road trip and moments of awe at the Grand Canyon. Why You Should “Build It Anyway”: Why I believe you should pursue your current business or life goals, even if they’re unsure they’re the “right” goals, because of the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Personal Growth Through Business: Reflecting on my business journey, I emphasize the importance of resilience, boundaries, and alignment, which shaped my new vision for 2025. The Freedom of Starting Over: Why dismantling my 2024 business allowed me to focus on creating a more meaningful, sustainable model for my life and work in 2025. This episode reminds us that the greatest growth often comes from stepping into the unknown and taking action without guarantees of success. My story is a testament to the value of resilience, reflection, and building a life and business that aligns with your values. As you look ahead to 2025, ask yourself: What would you tell your January 2024 self? And then use that wisdom to fuel your courage and clarity in the coming year. Let’s make 2025 a year of purpose, bold decisions, and meaningful growth together. Ep 29: How I Got to My First $10K Month: https://alisonleighsimmons.com/nextstep-29/ 

In this episode, I explore the power of market research for business growth and connection. From a story about losing a magnetic eye lash on a Zoom call to a surprising call with the founder of the company, and a few eye-opening lessons in between, I show how understanding your audience on a deeper level can turn customers into raving fans. Curious about how the smallest frustrations can lead to the biggest opportunities? You won’t want to miss the actionable insights packed into this episode! Topics I Cover: Start with Understanding: Market research isn’t optional, it’s essential for any business, big or small. Knowing your audience forms the foundation of every successful strategy. Uncover Opportunities in Frustrations: Alison’s personal story with Moxie Lash shows how digging into customer frustrations can reveal opportunities to innovate and build loyalty. Action, Not Just Questions: The best market research happens when businesses actively listen, learn, and act on customer insights, just like Moxie Lash updated their education materials. Effective Strategies for Research: Use tools like ChatGPT for simulated feedback, engage in Facebook groups to listen and ask meaningful questions, or host direct one-on-one calls for deeper insights. Messaging That Resonates: If your audience doesn’t understand your message, they’ll tune you out. Tailoring your message to align with your audience’s language and needs is critical. Learn from Mistakes: Alison share’s a  “big marketing mistake” that highlights the risks of skipping proper research, don’t gamble with your messaging or reputation. Build Relationships Through Feedback: Conversations with your customers strengthen loyalty and create superfans who amplify your brand’s reach. If you’re feeling stuck in your business or wondering how to take it to the next level, this episode offers practical steps to get strategic with your market research. This actionable advice will help you stop spinning your wheels, create a deeper connection with your audience, and build a business that thrives. Tune in, and let’s make those next steps count!   www.moxielash.com

Today, I'm introducing you to my new biz bestie - ChatGPT!! Now, if you’re like most entrepreneurs, you might think of ChatGPT as just another content tool. But let me tell you, friend, it’s so much more than that! In this episode, I share how I transformed ChatGPT from a little content-creation helper into a full-on business partner, making it my go-to for productivity, strategic planning, and even system building.  Stick around, because by the end, you’ll see how ChatGPT could be your next team member in scaling your business. Key Takeaways Beyond Basic Content: ChatGPT isn’t just for writing. It’s a powerhouse for streamlining processes, brainstorming ideas, and strategizing solutions that work. A Moment of Clarity with Offers: By using ChatGPT to fast-track through a course, I developed a complete offer suite in a single day—something that typically takes weeks. This tool helped me think faster and get laser-focused on what matters. Custom Strategies with Ease: When a client needed help with her high churn rate, I leveraged ChatGPT to break down a complex Alex Hormozi case study and quickly adapted those strategies for her. The result? A custom plan that exceeded expectations and saved me hours. It's a Tool, Not a Replacement: ChatGPT doesn’t do the work for you—it amplifies your expertise. Like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. Just as I share in my Instant Pot “adventure,” the right tool in skilled hands makes all the difference. Avoiding Common Missteps: I see three common mistakes with ChatGPT—expecting it to read your mind, asking vague questions, and not seeking follow-up clarity. Nail these, and you’ll elevate your results. Productivity Hacks with ChatGPT: I’ve turned ChatGPT into a system builder, outlining high-level processes and even creating SOPs for my team. It’s like having an extra hand for the back-end of my business. Join the Workshop!: I’m hosting a “Be Your Own Boss Better” workshop to teach you exactly how to leverage ChatGPT in every stage of business. Let ChatGPT handle the details while you focus on the big picture.   This episode is packed with insights on making ChatGPT a strategic tool in your business. If you’re feeling overwhelmed with tasks or stuck on a big project, this episode will help you see how ChatGPT can reclaim your time and give you mental space to stay focused on growth. Ready to take your business to the next level? Let’s chat about how ChatGPT can become your new productivity partner. Join me on November 19th for my free workshop, where we’ll go step-by-step through ways to use ChatGPT to supercharge your business strategy. Register at alisonleighsimmons.com/workshop, and let’s take the next step together!

Show Notes for Episode 34: Building Stability and Sustainable Success with Michelle Vroom In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, I chat with my business coach, Michelle Vroom, who opens up about her journey from corporate to entrepreneurship and what it truly takes to build a sustainable business. Michelle shares her experiences navigating financial pressures, balancing family dynamics, and achieving long-term stability without compromising her values. Her transparency in discussing her business model shifts, the importance of sustainable offers, and the lessons she learned about stability will resonate deeply with anyone who’s felt overwhelmed by the relentless hustle. Listen in as Michelle offers a refreshing perspective on creating success that’s not only scalable but also sustainable. Topics We Cover: Starting with Purpose: Michelle began her entrepreneurial journey driven by a desire for flexibility and financial security, but her commitment to family and stability has always grounded her goals. The Power of Sustainable Offers: Michelle stresses that choosing the right type of offer, especially recurring or long-term ones, can make or break your stability as a business owner. She dives into why high-volume, low-ticket products might not be the best fit for everyone. Overcoming Client Losses and Building Community: Facing a significant revenue loss while pregnant was a pivotal moment for Michelle. Rather than giving up, she started focusing on audience-building to create a steady pool of clients, ensuring she’d never face that situation again. Finding the Right Business Pace: Michelle acknowledges the allure of rapid growth but emphasizes that not every season is meant for scaling. Sometimes, sustaining is the key to longevity, especially if long-term impact is the goal. Work-Life Harmony Over Balance: Open communication with her husband has been essential for managing family responsibilities. The couple regularly recalibrates, recognizing that balance looks different in every season. Strategic Decisions as an Experienced Business Owner: Michelle shares that it’s okay—and necessary—to reassess your direction. Shifting to more one-to-one coaching allows her to deepen client relationships, aligning with her desire for a more personal impact. Following Your True Vision: While tempted by trends in the coaching industry, Michelle stays true to her values. She builds her business around sustainable, high-impact work rather than just financial gain, knowing that integrity drives long-term success. By the end of this episode, you’ll walk away with a clearer idea of how to make choices today that will benefit your business tomorrow. Michelle’s insights remind us that a steady, purposeful approach can often be the most impactful “next step” in scaling to lasting success.   Michelle Vroom's Website Vroom Communications Market Like a Boss Podcast Be Your Own Boss Better Workshop Resources Page

In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, I’m reflecting on my recent conversation with Kris and Rebecca from C&D Tools. If you remember, in Ep 32: Beyond the Bottom Line: Unexpected Benefits of Hiring a Business Manager, they shared how hiring me as their business manager brought unexpected benefits.  Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on why those results were so surprising, yet incredibly impactful.  What I Cover: Faster-than-expected ROI: By tightening up their operations and tying off loose ends, Kris and Rebecca saw an immediate impact on their bottom line. Clarity through focused action: Having a business manager ensured that every move was aligned with their vision, no more spinning their wheels on things that don’t matter. Decision fatigue, be gone! With me taking on key decisions, they freed up the mental space they needed to focus on high-value tasks. Reviving faith in the business: Rebecca shared how working with me restored their belief in the potential of their business, which had started to fade. Support that goes beyond the to-do list: It’s more than just getting tasks done, having someone in their corner who believes in the vision made all the difference. Inspiration through progress: Progress itself became the motivation to keep moving forward, sparking excitement for the future again. This episode is all about showing you what’s possible when you bring the right support to your business. But remember, it’s not just about hiring any business manager. It’s about finding one that truly understands your vision, fits your vibe, and pushes you in all the right ways to take your business to the next level while making the process enjoyable. What sets me apart isn’t just the services I offer, but the personality I bring to the table. I don’t just push buttons and check off to-do lists; I keep things efficient, fun, and motivating because if we’re not laughing while getting things done, we’re missing out on one of the best parts of working together!  If you’re feeling stuck or your passion has started to dwindle, listen in and discover how strategic help can reignite your faith in your vision. Let’s chat and take that next step toward building the business you’ve been dreaming of!   Be Your Own Boss Better Workshop C&D Tools USA

In today’s special episode, we’re pulling back the curtain to give you an inside look at what it’s like to work with a business manager — from the perspective of my amazing clients, Kris and Rebecca of C&D Tools.  You’ll get to hear their unfiltered take on how working with me has impacted their business, from navigating chaotic beginnings to achieving record-breaking growth. They’re sharing the good, the better, and the surprising benefits that made all the difference.  One key moment? When Kris casually referred to me as their "boss," sparking a transformation in how they approached their business! What We Cover: The Power of Purpose-Driven Action: C&D Tools started from a small inconvenience—an unsatisfactory cocktail shaker—and turned it into a full-fledged business by recognizing a gap in the market for quality, American-made shakers. The Importance of Team Chemistry: Building a business is as much about relationships as it is about strategy. Kris and Rebecca first connected with Alison during a challenging Kickstarter campaign and stayed loyal despite early setbacks because they valued trust and aligned vision. Turning Messy Action into Structured Growth: Kris and Rebecca candidly shared how, early on, the business was disorganized, but implementing structured systems like Trello (despite resistance) transformed the chaos into streamlined efficiency. The Value of a Strategic Partner: Rebecca mentioned that having Alison on their team took the weight off their shoulders, helping them focus on growth without being bogged down by daily operational stress. Every weekly meeting turned into a reminder of their "why" and brought renewed energy to the business. Immediate ROI from Hiring Help: Their revenue increased by 90% month-over-month after bringing Alison on board, and for the first time ever, they had more money in their bank account than the total of their business loan. Unexpected Benefits: Beyond the financial gains, Alison provided the structure and encouragement that reinvigorated Kris and Rebecca’s passion for their business, turning C&D Tools from a stressful endeavor into an exciting journey again. Delegation and Scaling: One of the most surprising benefits for the couple was Alison’s ability to build a team around herself, which allowed them to focus on big-picture strategy while she managed day-to-day execution. This episode is a great reminder that growth doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it just requires the right support. Whether you’re thinking about hiring your first team member or ready to bring in a full-fledged business manager, Kris and Rebecca’s story shows that the right partnership can transform not just your bottom line, but also your experience as a business owner. Ready to get out of the weeds and take your business to the next level? Let’s chat and see how we can create a sustainable and scalable strategy that aligns with your vision!

Hey guys! In this episode, I’m walking you through the four phases that are absolutely essential to building not just a successful business, but a healthy successful business that you can sustain long-term.  I’m sharing insights from a personal story about a family road trip and how hiking the Grand Canyon revealed some truths about the entrepreneurial journey. If you’re finding that the excitement of growth has turned into exhaustion, this episode is a must-listen.  Let’s talk about where you might be getting stuck and what needs to happen next! Topics I Cover: The 4 Phases of Business Growth: I introduce the four essential phases every business goes through—Strategy, Scale, Optimize, and Sustain—and explain why each is necessary for long-term success. Scaling Isn’t Always Fun: It’s exciting to see your business grow, but scaling can also feel overwhelming. I share the importance of staying consistent and avoiding the temptation to change direction too soon. Optimization Before the Next Big Leap: Many business owners jump from one growth phase to the next without fine-tuning what they’ve already built. This can lead to burnout and inefficiency. Sustainability is Key: Without solid systems in place, your business can feel like a ticking time bomb. I emphasize that true success comes from creating a business that can run without burning you out. Create a Business that Lasts: Businesses that thrive don’t rush through phases. They take the time to optimize and sustain, building a foundation that allows them to scale again without crumbling. The journey of building a healthy, successful business can feel a lot like hiking the Grand Canyon. There are highs and lows, steep climbs, and times when you need to stop and reassess.  But with the right plan and a clear understanding of each phase, you can create a business that not only grows but also sustains long-term.  If you’re ready to map out your next steps or need someone to walk through the hike with you, head over to my resources page for free tools and book a complimentary strategy call today. Let’s build a business that lasts together!

Turn Profit Into a Habit: Why You Need the Profit First System with Shannon Simmons In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, host Alison Leigh Simmons sits down with Shannon Simmons, a certified Profit First professional, to discuss a game-changing approach to managing business finances.  Shannon shares her own journey with money mindset and dives into the practical steps of implementing the Profit First system. This interview offers a fresh perspective on paying yourself first as a business owner and setting up your business for long-term profitability.  You won’t want to miss Alison’s reaction when she realizes the subtle yet powerful shift that Profit First can create! Topics We Cover: Mindset Shift on Profit: Shannon emphasizes the importance of paying yourself first and treating profit as a bonus, not just “leftover money.” Shifting your mindset around this can immediately change how you view your business finances. Separate Bank Accounts for Clarity: The Profit First system uses multiple bank accounts to allocate funds for specific purposes, ensuring that every dollar is accounted for. This structure can reduce stress and increase financial clarity. Owner’s Pay vs. Profit: There’s a difference between the money you take as salary (Owner’s Pay) and your profit distribution. Profit is a reward for business success, while Owner’s Pay covers your personal living expenses. Addressing Money Mindset Issues: Shannon opens up about how negative money conversations from her childhood impacted her mindset. This personal story highlights how early money experiences can shape our financial habits. Small Steps First: Start by opening just one new account and allocate a small percentage of every deposit—1%—to begin building the habit of setting aside profit. Dealing with Debt: For business owners with debt, Shannon advises splitting profit distributions to include debt payments, savings, and a small personal reward, so you balance debt reduction with maintaining a safety net. Accountability and Support: Having a certified Profit First professional can provide the support needed to stay on track, troubleshoot challenges, and help navigate unexpected financial setbacks. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help business owners create a strategic, sustainable plan for their finances using the Profit First system. Implementing even one small step can transform how you view and manage your business funds. Tune in to learn how taking control of your money today can help you build a thriving, profitable business for the future. Ready to start paying yourself first? Listen to the full episode now and take your first steps toward a more profitable business strategy!   Connect With Shannon: https://fitforprofit.com/ LinkedIn Instagram Facebook  

Welcome to another powerful episode of The Next Step Podcast! This week, I'm sharing an intimate and inspiring live interview I did with my business coach, Michelle Vroom, inside her Facebook group, Market Like a Boss. In this conversation, you'll hear how I went from making $2,500 per month to hitting $10,000 months, all while running my business on the road with my family. If you’re feeling stuck and frustrated, listen in to hear how I worked through those challenges and learned to create a sustainable, thriving business. Trust me, there's a pivotal moment where everything clicked for me—and it can for you too! Topics We Cover: The Power of Mindset: Alison discusses how shifting her mindset and documenting her "evidence" of success helped her move past mental blocks and gain the confidence needed to scale her business. Embracing Strategic Action: Consistency was key! Taking strategic action—even when results didn’t show up immediately—was what eventually led to growth and clarity. Clearing the Clutter: Alison talks about learning to say "no" to non-essential tasks and how simplifying her calendar helped her regain focus and energy in her business. The Role of Coaching: Alison’s journey highlights the importance of accountability and how her willingness to accept coaching led to significant breakthroughs. If you think you can do it alone, Alison’s story will remind you that no one reaches their full potential in isolation. Community Support: Alison credits much of her success to the encouragement and support she received from her coaching community, emphasizing the importance of having a tribe that understands the entrepreneurial journey. This episode will leave you feeling inspired and ready to take action in your own business. If you’ve been stuck on that plateau, unsure of how to hit your next big milestone, listen in to discover how you can apply these lessons to your own journey. You’ll walk away with practical steps on how to simplify your business, shift your mindset, and start making strategic moves to hit your next income goal. Don’t forget to visit alisonleighsimmons.com/resources to access the Business Management Toolkit and download resources tailored to the stage of your business! Let’s do this, guys—together, we’ll take your business to the next level!

Hey friends! Welcome to Season 3 of The Next Step Podcast! I’m so excited to kick off this season with a topic that’s been on my heart: How can we be our own boss better? In this episode, I get real about the four key actions I took that helped me go from $2,500 a month to $10K without adding more clients. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day grind in your business, trust me, you’ll want to tune in to hear how I made this shift. Plus, there’s a moment when I realized I’ve actually become my own ideal client—yeah, that happened! I Cover: Set Clear Goals for Income & Clients - I set a goal of hitting $10K a month without adding more clients, and that clarity made all the difference. Adjust Your Offer to Reflect Your Value- I shifted from calling myself an OBM to a Business Manager and Strategy Implementor—and, guess what? My offer became so much clearer to potential clients. Tweak Your Messaging- Once I had the right title and offer, I made sure my messaging reflected it, which led to more people saying, “I want to work with you.” Network Like a Pro- I did tons of coffee chats and networking, and those conversations not only helped me refine my offer but also brought in clients. Sustain Your Success - I break down the four phases I guide my clients through: Establish, Scale, Optimize, and Sustain. I’m right in the ‘Sustain’ phase myself! By the end of this episode, I hope you’ll walk away with practical steps you can take to become a better boss for yourself and scale your business without getting bogged down in the daily tasks.  Ready to take that next step? Let’s chat about how we can make it happen together. Don’t forget to check out the business management toolkit and other free resources I’ve put together to help you along the way! Let’s do this!

In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, I’m excited to introduce Christine Campbell Rapin, a business mentor, consultant, and owner of Clear Acceleration Incorporated. Christine believes that scalable growth doesn’t have to be complicated or require you to work 24/7. It’s all about having a clear business strategy and understanding the three non-negotiable foundations that fuel new client growth. Christine shares her journey from entrepreneur to mentor, revealing the secrets behind her success and the powerful strategies she uses to help businesses thrive.    Topics We Cover:   Simplifying Business Success: Christine’s journey from side hustler to successful entrepreneur showcases the power of simplicity and clear strategy in achieving business growth. Three Non-Negotiables for Growth: Discover the foundational pillars—identifying your next buyer, creating a predictable client growth engine, and delivering unparalleled value. Challenging the Avatar Exercise: Christine debunks the traditional avatar exercise, providing a fresh perspective on truly understanding and finding your next buyer. From Curiosity to Client: Learn how to move potential clients from curiosity to paying customers with strategic and effective messaging. Creating Must-Have Value: Understand the importance of positioning yourself as a must-hire expert rather than just a likable one. Christine’s Personal Story: Christine shares her initial reluctance to become a mentor and how she embraced the role when she realized the significant impact she could make. Managing Capacity for Consistent Growth: Insights on the critical importance of managing business capacity and ensuring consistent client growth.   This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the next steps in your business journey. Christine’s expertise in simplifying business strategies and her focus on the foundational pillars of growth will inspire you to take a closer look at your own business. By aligning your strategy with your core values and understanding your audience, you can create a sustainable and scalable business. Tune in and discover how to transform your business into a strategic, well-oiled machine that drives lasting success.   Links:   LinkedIn: Https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinecampbell1   Instagram: Https://www.instagram.com/christine.campbell.rapin   YouTube: www.youtube.com/@christinecampbellrapin   Website: www.christinecampbellrapin.com  

In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, I sit down with Aarti Achar, also known as the Happiness Ninja. Aarti is a powerhouse in personal development and mindfulness, guiding ambitious, creative professionals toward sustainable happiness.   This episode is packed with insights on how saying “no” can be a powerful tool for reclaiming your time and energy. Listen in to discover Aarti's unique approach to balancing the demands of life and work with personal happiness. Trust me, you won't want to miss the moment when Aarti shares her transformational “happiness game”  it's a real eyeopener!   Topics We Cover: The Power of No: Aarti shares her journey from being an enthusiastic people pleaser to mastering the art of saying no, and how this shift has been pivotal in achieving personal freedom and happiness. The Happiness Game: Find out how Aarti gamified her approach to happiness with five key pillars: mind, body, soul, relationships, and future. This method helps her and her clients stay intentional about their daily actions. Tracking Time: Learn the importance of tracking your time to understand where it goes, allowing you to make more intentional decisions about how to spend it. Needs, Wants, and Desires: Learn how to categorize your daily tasks and obligations into needs, wants, and desires to better manage your time and energy. Mindfulness and Balance: Practical tips on how to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine to balance responsibilities and personal happiness.   This episode contains practical advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of their business and life. It will help you take strategic actions to not only manage but thrive, ensuring you can scale your business while maintaining your personal wellbeing.    Tune in to learn how to make intentional choices that align with your needs, wants, and desires, so you can achieve a sustainable, happier life. Let's take that next step together! Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aarti.achar/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tea.with.Aarti  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tea.with.aarti/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TeawithAarti  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/aartiachar  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tea.with.aarti www.teawithaarti.com  

In this week’s episode, we have a fantastic conversation with Susan Pratt, a copywriter and messaging strategist. Susan shares her journey from writing newsletters for her local Girl Scout Council to becoming an expert in crafting messages that resonate deeply with target audiences. You won't want to miss Susan's insights on the critical role of messaging in business success and her valuable tips on how to create compelling content that attracts and converts clients.   Topics We Cover: From Cookies to Copywriting: Susan Pratt shares her unique journey from working on the Girl Scouts cookie program to becoming a messaging strategist, emphasizing the importance of repurposing skills and experiences. Understanding Your Audience: Learn the importance of deep market research and truly understanding your clients' pain points to craft messages that resonate. Problem-Solving Over Product Selling: Learn why it's crucial to focus on the problems your product or service solves rather than the features of the product itself. Personal Stories Matter: Learn how sharing personal stories and client testimonials can create powerful connections and enhance your messaging strategy. Testing and Iteration: Discover the importance of testing your messages and iterating based on audience feedback to find what truly works. Grace in Growth:Get encouragement as an entrepreneur to give yourself grace during the process of refining their messaging, understanding that it takes time to get it right.   Gain practical insights that will help you take strategic actions to refine your messaging and effectively communicate with your audience. Susan's expert advice will guide you in creating a sustainable business strategy that aligns with your vision and attracts the right clients.    www.linkedin.com/in/susanprattcopywriting  https://www.instagram.com/messagemasterywithsue/ http://www.susangpratt.com/   

Welcome to another episode of The Next Step Podcast! Today, we have a special guest, Hersh Rephun, the "Message Therapist," who brings a unique blend of humor and humanity to branding and communication.    In this episode, Hersh shares his mantra of "selling the truth with humor and humanity" and talks about the profound impact this approach has on personal branding. Hersh's shares how his background in comedy and advertising has shaped his career, and discover a significant moment where he discusses the myth of authenticity in branding—a truth bomb you won't want to miss.   Topics We Cover:   Sell the Truth: Hersh's principle of selling the truth with humor and humanity stems from his extensive experience in PR, working with artists and creatives who valued authenticity over corporate spin. Balancing Humor and Sincerity: Humor can diffuse difficult situations and make messaging more relatable, but it must be balanced with sincerity and good intent to truly resonate. Personal Branding: Hersh emphasizes that all branding is personal, whether for individuals or large corporations. The key is to create a genuine connection with the audience. Overcoming Fear: Some clients seek Hersh's help specifically to incorporate humor into their branding, despite their discomfort with being funny or vulnerable. Distinguishing Factors: Personal integrity and unique experiences often become the most powerful differentiators in a saturated market. Adaptability: Hersh highlights the importance of being flexible and not sticking rigidly to formulas, as adaptability can lead to discovering what truly works. Personal Story: Hersh shares how his journey in stand-up comedy unexpectedly blended with his business, enhancing his ability to connect and communicate effectively. This episode is packed with insights that will help you infuse humor and humanity into your branding, ensuring it stands out in a crowded market. Hersh Rephun's wisdom on selling the truth and embracing personal integrity offers a fresh perspective on building a sustainable and impactful brand. Listen in to learn how to to use your unique qualities and take strategic actions that will elevate your business to the next level. Let's make a plan and take action!   Social Media Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershrephun/   Hersh Rephun's Website: Get Message Therapy https://getmessagetherapy.com   LinkedIn: Hersh Rephun https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershrephun

In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, I'm so excited to sit down with Jennie Mustafa-Julock, a powerhouse in the business coaching world. Alongside her partner Meredyth, Jennie has crafted a revolutionary approach to productivity that empowers entrepreneurs to zero in on what truly matters. Join us as Jennie shares her incredible journey from running a solo coaching practice to forming a dynamic partnership that perfectly aligns with her RV lifestyle and business goals. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your overwhelming to-do lists into manageable, meaningful tasks that propel your success. Topics we cover: The Power of Pivoting: Jennie shares how she shifted from high-ticket coaching to lower-ticket offers that are more accessible to a larger audience, explaining that you can make changes that adapt your business model to better fit your evolving lifestyle and goals. Intentional Work: We get transparent about how focusing on what truly matters can help you make significant progress without getting bogged down by endless to-do lists. The Make It Happen Method: Jennie shares her and Meredyth's signature five-step process for creating meaningful and actionable to-do lists is a game-changer for productivity. Strategic Influences: Jennie emphasizes the importance of being selective about who you listen to and being intentional about your influences. This episode is bursting with insights to help you navigate the next steps in your business journey. Jennie’s expertise in productivity and her strategic approach will inspire you to take a closer look at your own practices. By aligning your actions with your core values and being intentional about your influences, you can create a sustainable, scalable business. Listen in and discover how to turn your to-do list into a powerful tool for achieving your goals and driving lasting success.   Links: Jenny and Meredyth https://jennieandmeredyth.com   https://jennieandmeredyth.com/everything   Facebook: Jenny and Meredyth https://www.facebook.com/jennieandmeredyth   Instagram: Jennie and Meredyth https://www.instagram.com/jennieandmeredyth   TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@jennieandmeredyth   YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@jennieandmeredyth  

In this episode of The Next Step Podcast, I am thrilled to introduce Monica Reynolds, the creative mind behind Vox Pop Marketing and the architect of the Magnetic Marketing Roadmap.    With 19 years of expertise, Monica isn’t just a brand strategist; she’s a brand navigator. Discover how she helps businesses create meaningful messaging and positioning that guarantees an authentic online presence. This episode is packed with insights that will help you transform your brand into a strategic compass for lasting success and scalability.   Topics We Cover:   Authentic Branding Matters: Monica shares her unique approach as a "brand navigator." It’s all about guiding you to discover and embrace your authentic brand, not just fitting into a box. Learn from Monica’s Journey: From a jewelry side hustle to a marketing expert, Monica’s story is packed with lessons on perseverance and continuous learning. Define Your Brand’s Personality: Your brand is more than just a logo. It's a personality! Make sure it reflects your unique characteristics and values to connect authentically with your audience. Understand Your Audience: Before creating content or designing your website, get to know your target audience deeply. This ensures your messaging truly resonates with them. Effective Messaging is Key: If you’re not clear about your brand, your audience won’t be either. Clear, consistent messaging attracts the right clients who are already excited to work with you. Strategic Content Creation: It’s not just about posting; it’s about creating strategic content that drives traffic to your website and educates your audience. Track the Right Metrics: Knowing what to look for to gauge your success is essential. Metrics like website traffic and conversion rates help you understand if your messaging is effective. This episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the next steps in your branding journey. Monica’s expertise in creating clear, compelling messaging and her strategic approach to branding will inspire you to take a closer look at your own brand.    By aligning your messaging with your core values and understanding your audience, you can create a sustainable, scalable business. Listen in and discover how to transform your brand into an authentic, magnetic force that captivates the right audience and drives lasting success.   Connect with Monica: Facebook: Monica Valentine Reynolds https://www.facebook.com/monicavalentinereynolds   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voxpopmarketing   YouTube:Vox Pop Marketing YouTube https://www.youtube.com/voxpopmarketing   Vox Pop Marketing https://www.voxpopmarketing.com   Personal Brand Accelerator Quiz https://voxpopmarketing.com/marketing-quiz/   Magnetic Message Workbook + Audios https://voxpopmarketing.com/make-the-competition-irrelevant/  

Welcome back to The Next Step Podcast! In this episode, I am talking to Maartje van Krieken, a seasoned executive with over two decades of global experience in the oil and gas industry who is now a consultant for entrepreneurs and leaders. Maartje shares her unique insights on leadership, crisis management, and strategic planning. Tune in to hear about her transition from corporate life to consulting and discover the powerful strategies she uses to help leaders navigate chaos and create order in their businesses.  Topics We Cover: Maartje’s Transition: From Amsterdam to New Orleans, her journey from the oil and gas industry to starting her own consulting business. Strategic Resilience: How Maartje’s personal experiences shaped her approach to leadership and problem-solving. The Chaos Games: Maartje’s unique methodology for turning chaos into structured, strategic action. Prioritization Techniques: The importance of asking "Why now?" and "Says who?" to filter through overwhelming tasks and focus on what truly matters. Emotional Attachment vs. Ego: Understanding the difference and how to manage emotional ties to your business while remaining open to change. Practical Tools for Leaders: Specific skills and tools that leaders can deploy to maintain focus and manage disruptions effectively. This episode is packed with actionable advice that will inspire you to take strategic steps toward a more sustainable and successful business. Maartje’s insights will help you not only manage chaos but turn it into an opportunity for growth. Remember, it's all about taking the next step with clarity and confidence.   Connect with Maartje van Krieken: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maartje/ Website: https://www.thechaosgamesspeaker.com/

In this week’s episode,  I am chatting with Jaycie Cormac, a dynamic speaker and coach known for her Maverick mindset. Jaycie shares her journey from a terrified six-year-old in a paper bag mask to a confident entrepreneur and storytelling expert.  Listen in as she reveals how she empowers women entrepreneurs to create powerful and relatable stories, whether they're on stage, in a podcast, or during a networking moment. Plus, you'll hear a hilarious and surprising moment that will leave you inspired to harness the power of your own story. Topics We Cover: Empowering Through Stories: Learn how Jaycie helps clients use storytelling to build confidence and connect authentically with their audience. Attract and Repel: The importance of using your story to attract the right clients and repel the wrong ones. Humor in Storytelling: Even if you don't think you're funny, Jaycie shares how humor can break down barriers and create bonds with your audience. Practical Speaking Tips: Jaycie offers actionable advice on body language, tone, and delivery to enhance your storytelling skills. Storytelling in Marketing: Discover how to use your personal stories to market your business effectively and reach your evolving target audience. Personal Anecdote: Jaycie shares a humorous encounter at a grocery store that beautifully illustrates setting boundaries and relating personal stories to business. Jaycie's insights and practical tips will empower you to take the next step in scaling your business, ensuring it remains sustainable and impactful. Don't miss out on these valuable lessons that will help you create meaningful connections and take decisive actions toward your entrepreneurial goals. Tune in to this episode to uncover how storytelling can transform your business approach, helping you to engage your audience authentically and strategically.    Connect with Jaycie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayciecormac/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jayciecormac  https://www.facebook.com/groups/onfirespeakers Website: https://cartwheelsandbananapeels.com/

Need a fresh perspective on how to streamline your business for success? Join us in this episode of The Next Step Podcast with Kara Laws, a business educator and systems expert. Kara shares her extensive experience in helping businesses move from operational chaos to a streamlined, system-driven clarity that fosters growth and efficiency.   Kara's journey from managing her own struggling business to teaching others the foundational skills of proper business systems is both inspiring and instructional. If you're ready to understand the essentials of creating a business that not only sustains but also scales beautifully, you won't want to miss the practical strategies Kara unpacks in this episode!   Topics We Covered: Understanding Systems: Kara emphasizes the critical role systems play in business growth, allowing for scalability and efficiency. The Foundation of Branding: Learn why your brand is more than just your logo and how deep understanding of branding can drive customer loyalty and business identity. Financial Management Insights: Gain insights into the often-neglected area of financial oversight where many businesses falter. Personal Entrepreneurial Journey: Kara shares her personal business journey, offering lessons on transforming business operations from mediocre to exceptional. Practical Steps for Implementing Systems: Discover actionable advice on how to start putting effective systems in place, including how to overcome common obstacles.   Kara Laws offers practical advice on transforming your business with effective systems. For all you entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed by daily operations, Kara’s guidance is a clear call to action to start systematizing your approach for better control and scalability. It’s about crafting a strategy that aligns with your business goals and empowers your team for sustained success. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to reshape your business framework and propel your business to new heights. Let’s take action and turn those plans into reality!   Connect with Kara: Facebook: https://launchedacademy.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/launchedacademy TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@launchedacademy   Links mentioned in this episode: Quiz: https://launched-academy.involve.me/foundations-quiz  Website: https://launchedacademy.com Book: https://launchedacademy.com/product/dont-suck-at-business/ Launch Academy: https://launchedacademy.com/launch-your-business-academy/      

Need a burst of motivation to tackle your big goals, both in business and life?! Tune in to today’s episode of The Next Step Podcast with Jacklin Drake, a leadership coach who specializes in helping her clients really “see” their future.  Jacklin's journey from the nonprofit world to empowering leaders with her unique approach to vision boards is nothing short of inspirational. If you're curious about transforming the way you visualize and pursue your goals, you'll want to hear the simple, but incredibly effective strategies Jacklin shares in this episode! Key Takeaways: Discover how Jacklin found her calling in leadership coaching, moving from structured nonprofit roles to guiding leaders to visualize and achieve their dreams. Jacklin breaks down her transformative use of vision boards, illustrating how turning goals into visual representations can fuel daily motivation and drive success. Learn the nuts and bolts of crafting a vision board that resonates with your personal and professional aspirations, complete with practical tips from Jacklin. Hear direct from Jacklin about the profound impact vision boards have had on her clients, helping them find clarity and direction. Find out how to keep your vision board dynamic—reflecting achieved milestones and evolving goals to keep pace with your growth.   In this episode, Jacklin Drake offers up practical advice on how to use vision boards to not just dream, but do!  For all you small business owners feeling bogged down by the day-to-day, Jacklin’s strategies are a clear call to action to start visualizing your path to success more strategically. It’s about setting up a game plan that not only aligns with your business vision but also sparks sustained growth and passion. Don’t miss out on this chance to transform your approach and truly scale your business to new heights. Let’s dive in and make those visions a reality!   Connect with Jacklin:  Facebook:  Effective Ministry Solutions Instagram:  Instagram (@effective_ministry_solutions) Links mentioned in this episode: Vision Board Workshop: Unlock Your Vision for Business, Ministry and Home