The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur

If you finished this week feeling wiped out but couldn't point to why, this episode is going to make a lot of things click. There's a name for the extra cost you keep paying just for having a brain that works differently. It's called the ADHD tax and most of us only ever notice one piece of it at a time. Amber breaks it down honestly across all three layers so you can finally see the full picture without the shame spiral on top. In this episode, you will learn about: What the ADHD tax actually is and why it's structural, not a character flaw or a willpower problem The money layer: late fees, zombie subscriptions, repurchasing things you already own and the impulse buys that end up in the graveyard The time layer: transition drag, the search tax, redoing lost work and the decision loops that quietly eat your day The energy layer nobody talks about: masking, shame management and the cognitive overhead of holding a hundred open loops in your head How all three layers feed each other in a loop, and why that compounding is exactly where your leverage is The "assess" phase, and why you have to see a pattern clearly before you can change it One simple assignment to try this week that starts with noticing, not fixing This episode builds on the last one about time blindness, so if you haven't heard that yet, it's a great pairing. Your assignment this week: pick one layer, money, time or energy, and just get curious about your own tax. Don't fix it. Don't spiral. Just notice. Links & Resources: This kind of honest accounting is exactly what we do inside the Inner Circle. Claim your 50% off an annual membership here. Use code: 5YEARS50 Email Amber at [email protected] Follow Amber on Instagram

If you've ever told someone "I'll be there in 10 minutes" and showed up 45 minutes later - fully believing you had plenty of time - this episode is for you. Time blindness isn't a character flaw, it's neurology. And once you understand what's actually happening in your brain, everything changes. In this episode, you will learn about: Why ADHD brains experience time in only two categories: "now" and "not now" — and how that one concept explains so much How dopamine drives the overcommitment cycle and keeps you saying yes when your plate is already full Why trying to manage time like a neurotypical person is exhausting (and why that's not the goal) Four practical strategies you can start using this week to make time more visible and manageable How acceptance - real acceptance - is actually the foundation for building systems that work Why your future self can't be your only accountability system and what to do instead Links & Resources: Learn more about The Overcommitment Cure: https://amberhawley.com/courses/#overcommitcure Email Amber at [email protected] Follow Amber on Instagram Key Moments In This Episode: 00:00 ADHD and Time Management Struggles 05:24 "Dopamine-Driven Impulse Decisions" 08:36 "Finding Balance in Scheduling" 12:18 "Planning Beats Urgency" 14:24 "Understanding the ADHD Tax"

We're Back: A New Format Built for Neurodivergent Brains Hey there, and welcome back to The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur. I'm your host, Amber Holly, and if you've been wondering where I've been - honestly, same. Let me explain. The podcast went quiet for a while, and it wasn't just one thing. We had a hurricane, some health stuff, family demands piling up, and if I'm being completely honest with you - ADHD perfectionism did its thing. You know how it goes: if I couldn't do it perfectly, some part of my brain decided I shouldn't do it at all. And so... silence. But I'm back. And I'm really glad to be here. Starting Wednesday, March 4th, new episodes drop every single week. And I've made some intentional changes to how the show is going to work, because I've learned a few things about what actually serves you - and what serves me - in a sustainable way. Most episodes are going to be shorter and more focused - think 15 to 25 minutes - because that's what actually works for neurodivergent brains, including mine. I'll still do longer episodes when a topic genuinely needs more space, but the default is shorter, sharper, and easier to finish while you're doing the dishes or sitting in your car in a parking lot pretending you're not avoiding going inside yet. No judgment. I've been there. The format is mostly going to be me, solo, talking directly to you about the real stuff - the ADHD business challenges that nobody puts in the entrepreneurship books. Things like forgetting to bill a client. Or realizing you've been paying for three subscriptions to tools you stopped using six months ago. Or the way energy management, systems, and strategic planning all feel completely different when your brain works the way ours does. I'll also be bringing in select expert interviews and occasionally sharing sessions from inside my Inner Circle membership - but only when it genuinely adds something, not just to fill a slot. The first episode of the new season is called "Why Your ADHD Brain Treats Time Like a Suggestion - And What to Do About It." It's a good one, and it's coming at you March 4th. And speaking of the Inner Circle - we are celebrating five years. Five years of this community showing up for each other and building businesses that actually work with their brains. To celebrate, I'm offering 50% off an annual membership. If you've been curious about it, this is a really good time to take a look. 50% off link Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss the new episodes, and if you know someone who's been trying to build a business while also managing an ADHD brain - or a suspected one - send this their way. The more the merrier. I'll see you Wednesday. AmberHawley.com   Time Stamps: 00:00 Life Update and Hiatus 00:56 Podcast Is Back 02:10 New Episode Format 03:46 Topics You Can Expect 05:06 First Episode Preview 05:26 Inner Circle Origin Story 07:05 Anniversary Offer Details 07:24 Subscribe and Share 07:46 Wrap Up and PSA

This episode dives into the critical but often overwhelming world of marketing for entrepreneurs, particularly those who are neurodivergent. We explore practical strategies to avoid all-or-nothing thinking, ensure consistency, and build sustainable marketing plans. Jen, now our Chief Marketing Officer with over 20 years in marketing and tech, shares invaluable insights on making your website customer-friendly, the importance of email marketing, and balancing multiple business tasks without succumbing to burnout. We also discuss the difference between sales and marketing, the pitfalls of trendy tools like Clickfunnels, and the need for simplicity and clarity in your marketing approach. Join us as we uncover actionable tips, personal anecdotes, and the vital role of external support in overcoming marketing challenges to achieve business growth. Plus, don't miss out on our upcoming events and special offers to help you stay on track! Tune in to gain clarity, focus, and a renewed sense of purpose in your marketing efforts. Let's dive in! Links Mentioned: amberhawley.com/innercircle Timestamped overview: 00:00 Back after hiatus; revamped business for clients. 05:19 Focus on consistency and manageable actions in business. 07:29 Marketing is overwhelming due to complexity and uncertainty. 10:11 Former tester learned restraint; avoids unnecessary software testing. 15:21 A mentor helps overcome business barriers. 17:13 Made email series more personal and compelling. 20:44 Emotional attachment complicates personal tasks and marketing. 23:37 Clear priorities essential before pursuing marketing efforts. 26:37 Own your website; control your messaging effectively. 30:41 Sunil's success: charisma, networking, personal connections made. 36:03 Email marketing yields high returns for small businesses. 38:57 Prioritize and focus social media for small businesses. 40:20 Elon Musk's changes make account access difficult. Meet Jen McFarland Jen McFarland is the CEO & Principle Consultant at Women Conquer Business, a small business marketing consultancy in Portland, OR. Her most notable SEO accomplishment is increasing traffic by 250% for the City of Portland Revenue Bureau (yes, a tax agency!), using customer-centric design and content. Today, she helps service-based businesses increase leads through marketing and SEO strategy.  womenconquerbiz.com

In this episode Amber Hawley and Dr. Liz Slonena delve into the fascinating world of mindful hypnosis and retreats tailored for entrepreneurs with ADHD. They explore the neuroscience behind creativity, stress management, and hypnosis, and discuss authentic ways to overcome common entrepreneurial hurdles like perfectionism and fear of rejection. This enriching discussion offers valuable insights and practical strategies, especially highlighting the upcoming GSD retreat where Dr. Liz will be our resident flow facilitator and her approach to using alter egos for enhanced performance. In this episode, you will learn about: * Utilizing mindful hypnosis to enhance focus, creativity, and productivity. * Overcoming perfectionism and fear of rejection through authenticity and mindful practices. * The benefits of retreats specifically designed for neurodivergent entrepreneurs. * Developing an alter ego to improve confidence and manage social media interactions. * The neurological foundations of creativity and the therapeutic effects of clinical hypnosis.   About Dr. Liz Slonena Dr. Liz Slonena (slow-nih-nah) is an ADHD psychologist, speaker, and business consultant located in Asheville, NC. She empowers perfectionistic business owners to overcome doubt and banish burnout with mindful hypnosis so that they can stress less and live more while earning more.  Dr. Liz is the co-creator of Brief Mindful Hypnosis, a science-backed way to rapidly overcome stress to help you feel more calm, creative, and confident in 7 days. Her transformative meditations have been featured on YouTube, Aura, InsightTimer, BetterSleep, Thrive360, and Mooditude. You can learn more on Dr. Liz's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links & Resources: GSD Retreat happening May 16th – 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC Get 30 days of free premium access to Aura, an all-in-one meditation and hypnosis app HERE Register for free for creating your perfect work week workshop Connect with Amber Hawley    Key Moments In This Episode: 00:00 Therapist entrepreneur coaches business owners for success. 04:52 Experience with hypnosis leads to unique perspectives. 09:31 Interest in self-hypnosis and discomfort with performance. 10:36 Connection to energy healing through visualization experiences. 15:22 Therapy voice, power pose shift perception. 20:15 Embracing calming techniques for centering and relaxation. 22:45 Controversial NLP like hypnosis for selling persuasion. 25:58 Interest in mindful hypnosis for neurospicy health. 28:26 ADHD brain feels like swirling puppies, overthinking. 30:41 Embracing neurodiversity; strengths, challenges, and creativity. 36:16 Overcoming fear and wearing a new persona. 39:54 Met through social media, admired confidence and balance. 42:45 Validating permission to embrace authentic, quirky selves. 46:50 Building confidence through repeated affirmation and experiences. 48:38 Finding growth and success despite challenges faced. 53:26 Join the May GSD retreat in Asheville. 54:24 Encouraging creativity and focus through experimentation.

Finding the right team for your business can feel burdensome, especially when you're juggling the role of entrepreneur with personal life demands. Lesley Pyle joins Amber Hawley to explore strategies for lightening this load, from hiring an online business manager to creating an enticing job post that draws in the right talent. Through the blend of experiences shared, this episode equips entrepreneurs with the wisdom to expand their teams effectively while maintaining balance in their lives. In this episode, you will learn about: The benefits of an online business manager in streamlining operations and aiding hiring. Strategies for recognizing when it's time to hire help and how to begin the process. Keys to crafting a compelling job post to attract the best candidates. The importance of pacing your hiring process and focusing on one role at a time. Tips for conducting meaningful interviews that reveal if a candidate truly fits your business. How to leverage freelancers' diverse experiences for the growth of your business. Techniques for preventing team member burnout through proper workload management.   About Lesley Pyle Lesley Pyle is the Founder and CEO of HireMyMom.com, a service connecting Small Businesses with Virtual Professionals across the country since 2007. Pyle began her work from home journey in 1995 after having her first child and started her first online business in 1996 - HBWM.com. She serves on the Board of Directors for Mighty Oaks Foundation and is a contributing writer to Entrepreneur.com. She and her family reside in Texas. You can learn more on Lesley's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links & Resources: GSD Retreat happening May 16th – 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC Connect with Amber Hawley Key Moments In This Episode: 03:36 Join us for valuable hiring advice. 09:13 Attitudes towards work have changed over time. 13:01 Hiring part-time or virtual assistants benefits businesses. 16:47 Reviewing tasks, assigning based on skills and needs. 20:23 Focus on team's strengths, foster loyalty. 23:22 Single motherhood is tough but honesty is crucial. 25:48 Prepare interview questions to assess candidate compatibility. 27:29 Virtual work: value, skills, disruptions, pros/cons. Compatibility. 32:28 Align values, attract the right candidates, share benefits. 35:44 Follow job instructions, stand out from competition. 38:55 Virtual assistant supports multiple aspects of business. 42:32 Delegate tasks to focus on business growth. 44:16 Free resources, short course, concierge program available.

Join me and my special guest Dr. Liz Laskey, as we dissect what is needed in 2024 to grow and monetize your business. The conversation also explores the difference between being a business owner and an entrepreneur, the significance of action over perfection, and the value of investing in coaching for sustained business success. About Dr. Liz Lasky Dr. Liz Lasky, PhD, LCSW, is the founder and CEO of The Lasky Institute of Coaching™, The Coach Training Program For Helping Professionals™ and lizlasky.com. She has a commitment to helping people get what they want in business, life, and love. She is the author the book "Get What You Want"©  You can learn more on Liz's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links & Resources: 2024 Therapist Summit GSD Retreat happening May 16th – 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC Connect with Amber Hawley    Key Moments In This Episode: 00:00 Welcome to the Easily Distracted Entrepreneur 00:39 Introducing Dr. Liz Laskey and the Power of Summits 03:40 The Essence of Entrepreneurship vs. Business Ownership 07:50 Personal Journeys and Entrepreneurial Intelligence 18:09 Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overcoming Challenges 23:03 The Importance of Motion in Business and Life 26:30 Balancing the Scales: The Who and the What in Coaching 28:10 The Power of Simplicity in Business and Coaching 28:57 Crafting Your Signature Offer: The Foundation of Success 30:32 Expanding Your Impact: Courses, Talks, and Beyond 34:17 Monetization and Movement: The Key to Business Growth 42:01 The Importance of Coaching and Advice for Entrepreneurs

If you're feeling frustrated and discouraged because you can't seem to close deals and build meaningful relationships with potential clients, then you are not alone! You may be spending hours cold calling and sending out generic emails, only to be met with radio silence or rejection. Instead of seeing your sales numbers grow, you find yourself constantly questioning your approach and doubting your abilities. But fear not, because there is a better way to master the sales process and achieve the confidence and effectiveness you desire. In this episode, you will be able to: Master the sales process to close deals with confidence and ease. Discover the power of defining your sales and marketing strategies for business success. Build strong relationships with your target audience and watch your sales skyrocket. Unlock the secret to authentic and genuine connections that lead to loyal customers. Develop a resilient mindset to overcome objections and achieve sales success. About Dora As a master coach, she provides high level support for women who want to live their purpose and create wealth. Dora customizes her coaching for women in all stages of business, from high level corporate women starting consulting companies to venture backed startups. Her programs include money mindset, sales strategy, growth planning, capital planning and are delivered with genuine authenticity and a sincere desire to impact change. Connect with Dora: https://gypsysoulcoaching.com/ https://www.instagram.com/doralrankin/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/doralrankin/   If you want to find more about the GSD Retreat happening May 16th - 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC. https://amberhawley.com/retreat Find out more about the Inner Circle for the easily distracted: https://amberhawley.com/innercircle/  

In today's episode, Amber is joined by her dear friend Edwin Ruiz, a filmmaker, live streaming event producer, and all-around Renaissance man. Edwin shares his personal journey as a neurodivergent business owner, offering a unique perspective on harnessing neurodivergent strengths for success. With his tech background and love for problem-solving, Edwin's story highlights the power of embracing one's neurospiciness and finding fulfillment in constantly evolving challenges. His ability to dive deep into subjects, make connections, and create innovative solutions showcases the creativity and innovation that can arise from neurodivergence. Join Amber and Edwin as they delve into the world of neurodivergence and discover how to leverage these strengths in business. Connect with Edwin Here:https://www.instagram.com/mondomachine/ Connect with Amber Here: https://amberhawley.com/ The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:11 - Finishing the Year Strong 00:02:10 - Edwin's Story 00:06:00 - ADHD Flavor of Life 00:09:18 - Neurospiciness 00:16:11 - The Temptation of Knowledge Hoarding 00:17:27 - Learning through Observation 00:19:08 - Learning Preferences and Technology 00:22:02 - The Power of a Diverse Community 00:23:01 - Balancing Learning and Business Responsibilities 00:32:06 - The Value of Learning from Others' Stories 00:32:40 - Judging Our Value Based on Output 00:33:23 - Consistency and Identifying What's Important 00:34:52 - The Potential of AI in Problem Solving 00:39:41 - Finding Joy in Personal Problem Solving 00:48:50 - Explaining Tech Jobs to Children 00:49:19 - Trusting the Process 00:50:11 - ADHD as a Superpower 00:51:10 - Finding Your Own Way in Entrepreneurship 00:52:57 - Honoring Biorythms and Setting Boundaries 01:05:10 - The Importance of Neurodivergent Individuals 01:05:29 - Ways to Connect with the Guest 01:06:01 - Appreciating Neurodiversity

Ever wondered what's truly holding you back from financial success? Meet Hilary Hendershot, the financial planner whose unexpected twist on overcoming limiting beliefs about money will leave you speechless. In a world where scarcity mentality reigns, Hilary challenges entrepreneurs to unravel their deeply held beliefs about money and embrace abundance. But here's the twist: it's not just about changing your mindset. Hilary reveals the secret to achieving greater financial success lies in understanding the inputs and outputs of your business. Are you ready to break free from your limiting beliefs and unlock the path to financial freedom? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the power of a positive money mindset and change your beliefs about wealth to attract financial success. Learn the importance of financial planning and how it can help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals. Analyze your profitability and leverage data to make informed decisions that drive the growth of your business. Plan for a secure retirement as an entrepreneur and ensure a comfortable future for yourself and your loved ones. Overcome your limiting beliefs about money and unlock your full potential for financial abundance and freedom. My special guest is Hilary Hendershot Hilary Hendershot, the CEO of Hendershot Wealth Management and the host of Profit, Boss Radio, is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to all things money. Her no-nonsense and straight-talking approach to finances is both refreshing and inspiring. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Hilary has become a go-to resource for entrepreneurs looking to overcome their limiting beliefs about money and achieve financial success. Her ability to break down complex financial concepts into simple and actionable steps makes her advice highly practical and accessible. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, Hilary's insights and expertise will undoubtedly leave you feeling empowered and ready to conquer any financial challenge. Tune in to this episode of The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur and prepare to be motivated by Hilary Hendershot's wisdom and passion for helping entrepreneurs thrive financially. Connect with Hilary Here: www.hendershottwealth.com  www.moneyblueprintprogram.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilarythecfp https://www.instagram.com/hilary.hendershott/ Register for the free Perfect Work Week Workshop https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/workweek-oct-23/ https://amberhawley.com/ The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:05:09 - Money Mindset 00:07:32 - Money Operating Systems 00:09:44 - Unraveling Money Beliefs 00:12:17 - Confirmation Bias 00:14:53 - The Vanity Number Conspiracy 00:16:04 - Using Data to Make Strategic Choices 00:18:36 - The Importance of Profit Generating Activities 00:19:48 - Being Strategic as the CEO 00:21:25 - Simplifying Financial Analysis with Profit First 00:29:11 - "The Balancing Act of Pleasing Others" 00:29:47 - "The Importance of Having a Budget" 00:31:09 - "The Need for Financial Success in Business" 00:33:09 - "The Lack of Retirement Preparation" 00:36:47 - "The Importance of Saving and Planning for Retirement" 00:44:22 - The Power of Words 00:45:06 - Affirmations and Personal Growth 00:46:27 - Unconventional Routes to Wealth 00:46:59 - Self-Reflection and Uncovering Limiting Beliefs 00:48:37 - Acquiring Financial Skills

  Unleash marketing therapy with Jen McFarland as she passionately guides entrepreneurs through the ironies of approachability and understanding, igniting their goal to connect with their audience while overcoming the conflict of marketing challenges. In this episode, you will be able to: Master marketing strategies to boost your business success. Gain a competitive edge with valuable customer feedback in SEO. Harness local marketing and community engagement for organic growth. Open the door to easily accessible marketing resources for entrepreneurs. Enhance approachability and understanding in your marketing efforts. My special guest is Jen McFarland Jen McFarland is the CEO and principal consultant at Women Conquer Business, a small business marketing consultancy. With her background in tech and her expertise in translating complex concepts into relatable language, Jen is a master at making SEO approachable and understandable for business owners. She has a knack for breaking down the intimidating aspects of SEO and helping entrepreneurs see the importance of investing in their online presence. Jen's ability to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and practical application has made her a sought-after speaker and educator in the marketing industry. Her relatable and down-to-earth approach makes her a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to improve their marketing strategies. You can connect with Jen here: womenconquerbiz.com https://linkedin.com/in/jensmcfarland The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:39 - Transitioning to September 00:02:21 - Join the GSD Incubator 00:03:00 - Upcoming Workshops 00:04:42 - Introducing Jen McFarland 00:06:42 - Simplifying SEO 00:14:28 - The Importance of Listening to Testimonials 00:15:22 - Using Keywords to Enhance SEO 00:16:37 - Mapping Keywords to the Sales Funnel 00:18:28 - The Future of AI in SEO 00:20:41 - Overcoming Content Overlap Concerns 00:27:50 - Importance of Business Name 00:28:12 - Not Everyone is Your Ideal Client 00:28:41 - Overcoming Fear of Backlash 00:29:32 - Counterculture Marketing 00:30:26 - Marketing Confusion for Small Business Owners 00:41:26 - Importance of SEO for Websites 00:43:11 - Outdated SEO Advice 00:44:59 - Google Business Profile and SEO 00:46:10 - Marketing and SEO 00:47:52 - Regular Website Checkups 00:55:00 - The Importance of Listening in SEO 00:56:00 - SEO as Possibilities and Passion 00:57:26 - Show Up Consistently in Your Local Community 00:58:41 - Overcoming Self-Limitations 01:02:06 - Unexpected Opportunities 01:08:38 - The Value of the Conversation 01:09:11 - Contacting Jen McFarland 01:10:15 - Jen McFarland's YouTube Presence 01:10:50 - Time or Money 01:10:56 - Gratitude and Farewell

Entrepreneurial leader, Jen Hope, battles overwhelm and societal expectations to reclaim her well-being and lead with fierce self-care in a world that demands her constant hustle. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the potential of conscious leadership in individuals suffering from ADHD. Realize the significance of personal care as an integral part of entrepreneurial success. Learn how to sustain a balance between personal life and professional duties. Gain insight into the demanding aspects of team management and providing insightful feedback. Create a cascading set of habits aimed at boosting your leadership skills and productivity. Bright and brimming with insights, Jen Hope is an executive and leadership coach who has carved a niche for herself among impactful startup leaders. Her passion doesn't end at simply guiding leaders but extends to ensuring they help build a safe environment for female and neurodivergent individuals in their organizations. Jen effectively combines strategy and empathy, making her approach personalized and impactful. With a dedication for mental health advocacy, she adds another layer of depth to her work. Through her coaching, leaders are able to regulate their emotions more effectively, creating waterfall habits – leading to overall growth and success. The key moments in this episode are: 00:03:07 - Introduction, 00:04:05 - Defining Leadership, 00:08:19 - Challenges of Leadership, 00:10:49 - Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria, 00:12:41 - Emotional Regulation, 00:15:17 - The Personal Challenges of Owning a Business, 00:18:07 - The Parenting Analogy, 00:19:46 - The Difficulty of Balancing Leadership and Personal Well-being, 00:22:59 - Seasonality and Planning, 00:25:27 - Planning as Self-Care, 00:29:58 - The Power of Experimentation 00:33:39 - The Importance of Bandwidth for Leadership 00:37:23 - Small Ways of Taking Care of Yourself 00:38:51 - Carving Out Time for Self-Reflection 00:39:43 - Overcoming the "No Time" Mindset 00:44:39 - The realization of needing to let something go, 00:45:37 - Giving oneself permission to prioritize, 00:47:31 - The benefits of planning with someone else, 00:48:08 - Recognizing dread in the upcoming week, 00:51:19 - Showing up at your best as an entrepreneur Jen Hope is an executive and leadership coach for startup leaders. With a background as the Vice President of Marketing for multiple high-growth startup companies, Jen understands the complexity of startup leadership. She leverages data and evidence-based tools that accelerate growth and scale individual and collective leadership. Connect with Jen: Website: Hey Jen Hope Facebook   Instagram LinkedIn  --------------------------------------------------- Are you interested in having your highest revenue month ever? Do you want to start that more leveraged income stream? Are you ready to accomplish that big goal you have been talking about forever? The next cohort of the Incubator is currently enrolling and you're invited. Get more information here: https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/incubator/

In a world where conformity seemed to reign, Kierra Jones dared to be different. Little did she know that her uniqueness would become her greatest strength. As she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, she discovered an unexpected twist that transformed her entire perspective. What was this twist that empowered her to create a thriving business and find fulfillment? Stay tuned to find out how embracing her authenticity led to a remarkable journey of success and self-discovery. Embrace Unique Qualities Embracing your unique qualities is a fundamental aspect of entrepreneurship. This refers to acknowledging and leveraging your distinct characteristics, skills, and perspectives in how you conduct your business. Doing so not only creates a brand that authentically represents you but also fosters an environment where your business can thrive and stand out from the rest. In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the role of your distinct traits in shaping your business realm. Learn to handle feelings of not being enough, transforming them into stepping stones for growth and knowledge. Acknowledge the fleeting nature of imposter energy - a strategy for maintaining your composure amidst chaos. Take control of your professional domain, understanding the importance of being seen and heard. Delve into the process of instilling self-reliance and the simplification of business proposals, climbing the ladder of entrepreneurship. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Missing Recording Snafu, The conversation starts with a discussion about a recording mishap where the guest's Adderall shortage caused a distraction. Despite the setback, they express excitement about the upcoming discussion. 00:01:08 - Embracing Distractions as an Entrepreneur, The guest discusses the challenges of being a distracted entrepreneur and how she manages distractions in her workspace. They highlight the importance of adapting to unexpected interruptions and embracing the flexibility of the entrepreneurial life. 00:04:06 - Finding Connection Through Visibility, The conversation shifts to the topic of visibility and how it relates to feeling like an outsider. They emphasize the value of connecting with like-minded individuals and the validation that comes from finding your tribe in the online space. 00:07:26 - Embracing Differences and Contributing, They discuss the importance of embracing and valuing differences in the entrepreneurial world. They touch on imposter syndrome and how it can be overcome by recognizing the unique contributions each individual brings to the table. 00:10:56 - Embracing Continuous Learning, The guest shares a powerful insight about the importance of continuous learning and growth as experts in their fields. Embracing the mindset of co-creation and understanding that there is always more to learn can lead to greater success and fulfillment. 00:15:16 - Mindset and Strategy in Business, The conversation shifts to the mindset and strategy required in entrepreneurship. The guest talks about the importance of embracing the evolution of one's message and recognizing that triggers and challenges may resurface at different stages of business. 00:18:08 - Letting Go of Control, The guest shares her insights on surrendering and letting go of control in various aspects of life, such as relationships and weight loss journeys. She encourages entrepreneurs to do their part but also recognize when they need to trust the process and surrender to external factors. 00:20:32 - Accepting the Flow of Business, The hosts discuss the challenges of launching and how unexpected opportunities can arise. They emphasize the importance of accepting and appreciating the blessings that come along, even if they don't align with the initial plans. 00:23:25 - Building Trust in Business, The conversation concludes with a discussion on building trust in business by aligning offers with one's values and message. The guest shares her experience of initially having multiple offers but realizing the importance of focusing on aligned offerings for success. 00:25:19 - Making Decisions and Trusting Yourself, Kierra discusses the importance of making decisions based on what feels right and letting go of unnecessary offers. She emphasizes the need to trust in oneself and limit the number of offers to avoid distractions. Trust is a key component of personal and business growth, and it evolves over time. 00:26:16 - Balancing Business and Life, Kierra reminds entrepreneurs to not forget about their personal lives and relationships while focusing on their businesses. Trust is not limited to just the business realm, but also extends to other aspects of life, such as relationships and self-care. Expanding and evolving trust allows for a more holistic approach to success. 00:27:28 - Selling with Confidence and Joy, Kierra shares her experience of selling clothes on Poshmark and how it brought her joy. She encourages women to embrace their power in sales and monetizing their gifts without feeling shame. Selling is not just limited to business but can also be seen in various aspects of life. 00:28:50 - Valuing Your Worth, Kierra highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing one's worth in business. She challenges the belief that something that comes easy should be devalued and encourages embracing the ease and natural talent one possesses. Monetizing one's gifts and expertise is not something to be ashamed of. 00:34:22 - Redefining Success on Your Terms, Kierra discusses the societal expectations placed on women in business and challenges the notion that 00:37:20 - The Importance of Embracing "No", Kierra emphasizes that receiving a "no" in sales is normal and beautiful, as it means the person is not ready or aligned with the offering. The key is to not feel shame or take it personally, but rather honor the decision and wait until the right time comes. 00:38:07 - Creating a Safe Space for Decision-Making, Kierra shares a sales tip of setting the expectation of making a decision during the sales conversation. She emphasizes that it's safe to say no and that she is unattached to the outcome. This allows clients to feel empowered and make a decision that aligns with their truth. 00:39:13 - Being Financially and Emotionally Ready, Kierra discusses the importance of clients being both financially and emotionally ready for a program or service. She shares an example of a client who paused her program to finish making payments, highlighting the client's self-awareness and dedication to fully commit without financial stress. 00:40:18 - Honoring the Decision to Wait, Kierra explains that if a person is not ready for the support and transformation being offered, it's better to wait until they are ready. She emphasizes the importance of letting go with honor and staying connected, offering resources and support until the person is ready to work together. 00:44:26 - Embracing Fun in Business, Kierra encourages entrepreneurs to have fun in their business, as it allows them to show up more 00:48:46 - The Importance of Having Fun, Kierra discusses the importance of having fun and how it can impact our work and overall well-being. She shares that sometimes the magic we give to others can be the stuck point for us in certain areas. It's important to bring fun into all aspects of our lives, especially in areas where we feel stuck or resistant. 00:49:51 - Up-leveling Fun, Kierra emphasizes that bringing more fun into our lives doesn't mean starting from scratch or being at the bottom. It's about up-leveling the fun we already have and finding ways to enjoy ourselves in every situation. This can lead to greater flow and success in our work and personal lives. 00:50:54 - Creating a Safe Space, Kierra acknowledges the importance of creating a safe space for open conversations and reflection. She expresses her appreciation for Amber's podcast and the space it provides for meaningful discussions. Having a safe space allows for the co-creation of powerful energy and ideas between individuals. 00:51:42 - Being Supported and Taking Care of Ourselves, Kierra talks about the importance of being supported in our own magic and taking care of ourselves. Just as we extend ourselves for others, we deserve to be served and taken care of as well. Seeking support from others who can provide a different perspective is crucial in gaining a more balanced and robust understanding of ourselves and our situations. 00:53:20 - Learning and Growth, Amber expresses her gratitude for the conversation Kierra Jones is a Sales Messaging & Mindset Coach and Speaker who helps upleveling, impact driven women entrepreneurs step into the next level sales messaging & mindset they need to show up & sell their programs & services more powerfully, purposefully, and profitably so they stop giving their expertise away for pennies!  www.kierrajones.com  www.instagram.com/thekierrajones --------------------------------------------------- Are you interested in having your highest revenue month ever? Do you want to start that more leveraged income stream? Are you ready to accomplish that big goal you have been talking about forever? The next cohort of the Incubator is currently enrolling and you're invited. Get more information here: https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/incubator/

Amanda Berlin, the fearless PR powerhouse, dismantles the allure of shiny objects and guides entrepreneurs on a path to authentic visibility, liberating them from distractions and empowering them to achieve their business goals. Does this sound familiar? You've been told to chase after every shiny object that promises success in your entrepreneurial journey. But here's the painful truth: despite your efforts, you're still struggling to stay focused and achieve your business goals. It's time to break free from this ineffective action that only leaves you overwhelmed and unfulfilled. Discover the approach that will save you from shiny objects and give you the authentic visibility you need to thrive in your business. In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover solutions to dilemmas faced by entrepreneurs while trying to attract prospective clients. Realize your power as a resource in your field and leverage your expertise effectively. Appreciate the role of clear messaging and strong delivery in drawing followers. Discover the path to transitioning between professions and embracing uncertainty confidently. Carve your own stage and learn how to strengthen bonds with your audience. My special guest is Amanda Berlin Let's welcome Amanda Berlin, a passionate PR and visibility consultant adept at helping entrepreneurs who are excellent at what they do but struggle to get the exposure they deserve. Amanda works wonders with her clients, leveraging the power of public relations to broaden their reach and grow their businesses organically. With an impressive career spanning over 23 years, Amanda's approach to PR is rooted in timeless, relationship-driven tactics rather than fleeting trends. Her mantra is about establishing authentic visibility, eschewing the idea of chasing the latest shiny objects in favor of cultivating meaningful connections and partnerships. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Apply for the Incubator program by visiting the website forward slash incubator. Book a call with Amber to discuss if the Incubator program is a good fit for you. Follow Amanda Berlin on Instagram for PR and visibility tips. Consider working with Amanda as a PR and visibility consultant to grow your business. Explore the timeless tactics of public relations to increase your visibility and reach more of the right people. Focus on authentic visibility rather than following trends to build relationships and capitalize on them over time. Start with the end goal in mind and reverse engineer your visibility strategy. Consider strategic partnerships as a way to mimic word of mouth and gain access to new audiences. Explore speaking or hosting events to create visibility and validity for your business. Recognize that intimate visibility tactics, such as strategic partnerships and speaking engagements, often yield faster results in driving revenue and attracting clients. Connect with Amanda:Website: amandaberlin.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandagailberlin/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/berlinamanda/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsamberhawley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsamberhawley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsamberhawley/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itsamberhawley Website: https://amberhawley.com/

Do you yearn for a business that runs like a well-oiled machine, maximizing efficiency and productivity at every turn? Are you eager to discover the secret to streamlining your technology and software solutions for improved results? Look no further! I have the solution you've been searching for. In the following , I will reveal the key to achieving the outcome you desire - a seamlessly integrated system that revolutionizes your business processes. Say goodbye to wasted time and resources, and say hello to unparalleled productivity and effectiveness. Get ready to unlock the true potential of your business with the ultimate technology and software solutions that will propel you towards the success you've always envisioned. Decide When You're Going to Assess Your Tech and Software Solution Needs Choosing the right moment to delve into your tech and software necessities is a delicate game of balance. First, you need to evaluate the state of your existing tools - are they facilitating your work or are becoming obsolete? Is your business evolving in a direction that requires upgraded or different tech solutions? Prioritizing this task will allow you to enhance your productivity and performance, which in turn would boost the overall growth of your business. The key is to approach this necessity with patience, focus, and a clear understanding of your needs. Reflecting on Amber Hawley's conversation, she suggests the idea of having designated "CEO days." These are special days scheduled through the year specifically for addressing priority tasks or issues. And one of these might be committed to assess your tech and software needs. By setting aside this time, Amber talks about how we can avoid getting sidetracked by the latest shiny objects and focus on what our business truly needs. A savvy way to streamline tasks, don't you think? In this episode, you will be able to: Discover emerging technology and software, paving the way for colossal business advancements. Develop a clear vision for your business strategy while searching for groundbreaking solutions. Allocate exclusive time to pinpoint your precise technological and software requirements. Find out how to use timers to streamline your research process, enabling you to maintain target-oriented. Uncover pivotal factors like cost, functionality, and customer experience while transitioning to a new, effective solution.

Does this sound familiar? You're a high-achieving entrepreneur with ADHD, constantly battling with 'all or nothing' thinking. You've been told to just try harder or be more disciplined to overcome it, but it's not working. The pain of pouring your heart and soul into your business, only to see it crumble because of perfectionism and executive functioning challenges, is overwhelming. It's time to break free from this cycle. Join us on this episode as we dive deep into the impact of 'all or nothing' thinking in individuals with ADHD and discover powerful strategies to overcome it. Your business success depends on it. In this episode, you will be able to: Unearth the critical role 'all or nothing' thinking plays in people diagnosed with ADHD. Delve into the relationship between perfectionism and business owners with ADHD, and how it can make or break their entrepreneurial journey. Delve into the complex world of executive functioning challenges that individuals with ADHD face, providing you insights not commonly shared. Absorb novel ways to overcome 'all or nothing' thinking, creating an unparalleled urge for more understanding. Embrace a perspective of acceptance and compassion for ADHD cognitive patterns and why it's the next big thing. List 3: The Incubator is not open and accepting applications: https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/incubator/ Space is limited to 10 people so apply now.

Join therapist and growth strategist Lexi Soulios as she shares the five keys to building resilience as an entrepreneur, from assigning meaning to events in our lives to developing creative adaptability. In this episode, you will be able to: Delve into the intricacies of Daylight Savings and its role in today's world. Boost your mental fortitude by examining the importance of resilience in overcoming challenges. Develop greater acceptance and understanding of neurodivergent individuals within your community. My special guest is Lexi Soulios Lexi Soulios is a skilled therapist and growth strategist who has dedicated her career to helping leaders and visionaries push past their stubborn blocks and achieve their next level goals. With her unique combination of therapeutic and coaching strategies, Lexi has guided countless individuals in overcoming personal obstacles and unlocking their full potential. Her work has been featured in well-respected publications like Forbes, the Huffington Post, and Bustle Magazine. As an expert in her field, Lexi has the ability to transform lives by helping people tap into their own resilience, enabling them to achieve their big dreams. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Register for the free training Designing Your Perfect Work Week on Monday, March 27 at 05:00 P.m. Pacific on Amberholly.com. Check out Lexi Soulios's website to learn more about her approach to therapy and growth strategy. Consider working with a therapist or coach to help clear stubborn blocks and achieve big goals. Practice assigning positive meanings to the events of your life, especially when facing challenges or setbacks. Prioritize foundational body care, such as getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in physical activity. Build a robust support network of people who can provide emotional support and practical help. Connect with your authentic self by engaging in self-reflection, identifying your values and priorities, and setting boundaries. Practice creative adaptability by being open to new ideas, embracing change, and staying flexible in the face of challenges. Nurturing Resilience: Cultivating a Positive Mindset and Self-Care Habits A key aspect of nurturing resilience is fostering a positive mindset, which involves looking for the silver lining in difficult situations, practicing gratitude, and prioritizing self-care. Self-care habits such as maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and setting aside time for relaxation promote overall well-being, thereby enhancing one's resilience. Lexi Soulios emphasized that self-compassion and cultivating mindfulness are key in nurturing resilience. She shared insights on how learning to be in the present moment and practicing self-love can have a profound effect on an individual's ability to face challenges with grace and determination. Lexi also discussed the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal needs, as this enables individuals to manage stress effectively and focus on their well-being. Building Resilience: Strategies for Overcoming Adversity Developing resilience is an ongoing process that involves cultivating inner resources and honing one's emotional skills. By nurturing these abilities, individuals can better navigate through adverse situations, regulate their emotions, and maintain a sense of balance in the face of challenges. Strategies for building resilience include setting realistic goals, honing one's communication skills, practicing gratitude, and seeking support from others. Lexi Soulios shared her personal experiences and insights on building resilience, emphasizing that self-compassion and vulnerability are vital components in this journey. She encouraged listeners to acknowledge their emotions and work on understanding the underlying causes of their reactions in order to foster growth. By doing so, individuals can create space for new perspectives and habits, ultimately increasing their ability to bounce back from adversity. Understanding Resilience: The Key Traits and Characteristics Resilience represents the ability to bounce back from adversity and navigate through challenges in life. Individuals with high resilience embrace change, maintain a positive outlook, and possess an innate capacity to learn and grow from their experiences. Interestingly, resilient people not only persevere in times of adversity, but they also tend to emerge stronger and more capable than before. Guest Lexi Soulios shared her thoughts on the key traits of resilient individuals, noting that possessing emotional awareness, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to adapt are essential. She also emphasized the importance of supportive relationships in cultivatig resilience, as these connections offer encouragement and guidance during challenging times. Amber Hawley and Lexi Soulios both agreed that resilience is not necessarily an innate trait, but rather a capacity that can be developed and honed over time. Lexi Soulios is a therapist and growth strategist who helps leaders clear stubborn patterns so they can reach their next-level business, relationship, and life goals. Over the past 20 years, she has supported thousands of clients and students across five continents – including NY Times best-selling authors, C-suite executives, celebrity families, leading business coaches, and renowned healers. Lexi's work has been featured in Forbes, The Huffington Post, Bustle Magazine, Thrive Global, and OMTimes. Find out more about Lexi: Instagram: http://instagram.com/lexi.soulios LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexi-soulios/ Website: hhttps://lexisoulios.com Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsamberhawley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsamberhawley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsamberhawley/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itsamberhawley Website: https://amberhawley.com/

Ky Westcott, an East Coast boy with a West Coast heart, embarks on a neurospicy journey to come to terms with his ADHD, high functioning anxiety, and depression while discovering the power of negotiation and knowledge to overcome his mental health challenges. In this episode we discuss: How to navigate and manage mental health with neurodivergence, particularly in the black community. The importance of validating one's own feelings and emotions, and how to apply that knowledge in the future. The power of working with your brain, focused attention, and excitement in achieving extraordinary results. Kai Westcott is a mental health humorist, director, digital creator, writer, and producer. He has been documenting his neurospicy journey for the past year and uses his social media platforms and website to share his journey and lend his platforms to other people. If you love hearing about people's journey's you might like these other interviews in the "My Neurodivergent Brain" series. https://amberhawley.com/my-neurodivergent-brain-with-annie-ruggles/ Find out more about The Vibe With Ky: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevibewithky/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyruskeenanwestcott/ Website: https://thevibewithky.com/ Connect with me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsamberhawley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsamberhawley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsamberhawley/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@itsamberhawley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/amberhawley Website: https://amberhawley.com/ Loved this episode? Share it with a friend. Chapter Summaries: [00:00:49] Ky Westcott is a mental health humorist, a director, a digital creator, writer, producer. He is also the person that introduced me to the term neurospic. Anything to do with mental health or entertainment or social media, kai's your guy. Listen to the actual interview. [00:04:25] The Vibe with kai has been documenting his neurospicy journey for the past year. Kai has all three ADHD, high functioning anxiety and severe depression. He loves inviting mental health professionals onto his platform to give out their insight. [00:06:27] I didn't even find out until I was 41 that I had ADHD. Now that I have a better understanding of a lot of it, I realize that I'm thankful that it did happen. I don't know what kind of person I would be today if it weren't for my journey. [00:12:24] There is not a lot of research behind black people and mental health. For so many people of color, what they're going through is discounted. There's tons of misdiagnoses that are happening to this day because there's just no research behind it. [00:16:57] I think it's also we're experts in ourselves, right? We know our particular, like how we do things. Sometimes we need help seeing those patterns or getting unstuck. And so when so I know it's only been a year, I'm actually surprised. [00:17:44] How does ADHD how has it challenged you? How is it a challenge? And then how have you adapted the way you do business or the way that you do projects to deal with that? [00:25:12] Kai: Your feelings, your thoughts are always down. You are feeling that way for a reason. What you have to do then is figure out what you're going to do with those thoughts in those fields. When you can do that, you can validate other people's feelings. [00:28:20] One of the most positive things in having ADHD is like the creativity. When you hyper focus, like you said, that's where the magic happens. I try to use my hyper focus to my advantage because one of the things that I've been really pushing myself to do is to live in the moment. [00:34:56] 100%. As a virgo and somebody who my ADHD is called Over Focused, that organization gives me calm. At work, I was often reluctant to do things that I knew I should be doing. The more we understand ourselves and how our brains work, it can be so freeing. [00:41:39] Amber: At what age does it seem kind of messed up that I still pull all nighters to get stuff done?  Ky: I find that balance because there are lots of reasons why it's not good and it's unhealthy. When I'm finding this balance, I don't fight it. [00:46:16] I want to always add some sort of levity to the conversation about mental health because it is such a very serious thing. I just want people to be able to watch my stuff and just know that they're not alone. We shouldn't be afraid to talk about it. [00:53:03] Amber: What advice would you give to somebody struggling with feeling like they're not good enough? Ky: Your feelings are valid. Once you fully recognize that you can do anything that you want, the possibilities are endless. Where is the best place for people to connect with you?  

We all need a pep talk from time to time. You are worthy, sometimes business and life is a slog and it doesn't mean anything about you or your value. In the words of Dory, "Just Keep Swimming."   This week only, grab a year of support for only $777. https://amberhawley.com/innercircle/    

In this conversation with Cerita Yvonne, we talk about all the toxic thinking, perfectionism, people pleasing, not feeling good enough and the interplay of how you think about yourself can impact your relationships. Do you have a big goal for your business this year? How will it feel not to achieve that goal? Not because it's not important to you but because it's hard to keep your life and business going and stay the course with things when life throws you curveballs or you have too many things competing for your attention. What if you could have a high level of support, accountability, strategy to ensure you will achieve your goals and keep you on track. The Incubator is the answer to your overwhelmed and distracted prayers! You can still join this week so don't delay! Check Out The Incubator: https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/incubator/ About Cerita Yvonne: Cerita is a relational trauma expert. She is also a therapist, trauma coach, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, hypnotherapist, and hope dealer. As a recovered codependent perfectionist, sexual abuse survivor, and retired superwoman transformed into a super woman.  Cerita specializes in helping Black women heal the heartbreak of trauma through authentic self-love.  Visit her website and follow her on Instagram. Links and Resources: Join The Incubator Now! Join Inner Circle  

One of the blessings of the pandemic is that we now see a great example of why, as a business owner, we need to be prepared so our team members and/or family can keep our business going if we are sick for an extended period of time or if we pass.  Maybe you're thinking, where would I even start to get all that set up? Or maybe you know it's important but like many important things in our business and life, when do you actually prioritize that?  In today's episode I talk to MaryBeth Simon, the CEO of Niche Partnership Consulting where she guides entrepreneurs and professionals to create contingency plans that prepare them and their teams for the unexpected or an extended vacation. After talking to MaryBeth I decided that I will add reviewing my contingency plan to my Monthly CEO day every April. As that is the month I have themed for Systems. Making space always comes back to planning (but a realistic and sustainable plan of course). Do you have a big goal for your business this year? Maybe you're determined to finally write that book. Maybe you want to add another income stream like coaching or courses so you can take your family on vacation or pay off debt.  If you tend to lose steam after the initial excitement of a new project wears off, come join us in The Incubator! I'll help you work in a new way that ensures you have fun and make steady progress without burning out. You'll benefit from my 25 years professional experience + the accountability of an amazing group of entrepreneurs to help your big goals become proud accomplishments. Check Out The Incubator: https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/incubator/ About MaryBeth Simon: Mary Beth guides entrepreneurs and professionals to create contingency plans that prepare them and their teams for the unexpected or an extended vacation. She is the CEO of Niche Partnership Consulting and speaks at national conferences and on international podcasts. She believes continuous learning is the fountain of youth and became a certified Les Mills BodyFlow instructor after retiring from 30+ years at Vanguard. She's a rescue dog mom and active in her local business community in her free time. Mary Beth is on a mission to show you how to keep money flowing into your business while you're away.  Visit her website and follow her on Instagram. Links and Resources: Join The Incubator Now! Join Inner Circle

If you're somebody who loves organization and streamlining systems like I do or maybe you're feeling like you could use a little more organization in your business, than this week's episode is for you! We are talking about structuring your CEO days. This is when you are putting on your CEO hat, and working ON your business, not in it. This isn't the admin kind of work most business owners invariably have to do; this is big picture work, and evaluative work.  I break down my process for my annual CEO days and the monthly ones as well. I encourage you to consider adding CEO days to your calendar as they are the kind of days that can help you get clarity about your vision for your business as well as give you data to make better decisions. I also have included the CEO day checklist to give you a visual for how to structure them. Grab your checklist here. I'm also adding an amazing bonus to anyone who joins The Incubator by Monday, January 30th. You will get FREE access to a VIP half-day Systems Workshop (happening in March), where we will go through your systems and get some created, tweaked or updated to ensure your business foundation is set up to support you achieving your goals! Additionally You will get the Designing Your Perfect Work Week Workshop happening Friday February 3rd at noon est/ 9am pst. Get more information about The Incubator here.   "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." ~Benjamin Franklin

In this episode I talk to neurodivergent biz owner Rebecca Rose about her experience of being diagnosed with Autism, ADHD and OCD.  In this second episode of the series called My Neurodivergent Brain, Rebecca has a candid conversation about the impact being neurospicy has on her as a person and as a business owner. She talks about the benefits as well as the struggles and how she makes accommodations as well as structures her business to fit the way her brain works. I love these episodes as someone who works with so many different people who are Neurodiverse. Neurodivergence (ND) impacts each person in a unique way, and this series highlights this  which can be helpful for both understanding a little better the neurospicy people in your life or for those who may be questioning if they too might be neurospicy!  I love Rebecca's honesty and willingness to be vulnerable in this episode. ......................... Rebecca is a neurodivergent writer, storyteller, creator, chronic oversharer, and imposter. I mean, who even said she could be on a podcast? After earning her degree in journalism and writing for a New York newspaper, she realized that newsrooms are overwhelming and that deadlines are for people without ADHD. So she took to the internet to share anything and everything about her life with complete strangers. In the 10+ years since starting her blog Rosey Rebecca, the topics she writes about have shifted significantly. What began as a way to share her exercise "routine" (addiction) and "healthy" (disordered) eating in her early 20s has evolved into an outlet to document self-discovery and self-care in her 30s. You can connect with Rebecca here: http://roseyrebecca.com Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/roseyrebecca/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/roseyrebecca/ ................ Also don't forget to register for the Free Get Sh*t Done Workshop happening this Friday Jan 13th. https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/gsd/

Happy 2023 Ya'll!  I don't know about you but I'm feeling really good about the upcoming year. Don't get me wrong, my sarcastic side still wants to jump in and say that to make such a statement is naively optimistic especially given the last three years, but sarcasm aside I truly am excited and its not just wishful optimism. First, I'm hosting two free events in January: To register for the Get Sh*t Done Workshop on Jan 13th and to get on the list for the coworking day on January 27th head on over to https://www.theeasilydistractedentrepreneur.com/gsd/ Ok so, 2022 was kinda rough for me. Some of the things that happened were: I closed my group therapy practice which had been my primary income generator since 2011. I took on debt I ended relationships The last 4 months especially were filled with some of my highest highs and lowest lows I had experienced in a long time. I was grieving things, processing things and questioning almost everything.  And I know that I wasn't alone in that. I also knew I wasn't going to bring that energy into 2023.  Maybe you too are feeling some of the struggles I talked about. I'm hearing from friends and clients about the impact of health challenges, relationship struggles, financial uncertainty and more that are taking center stage in their lives.  Many didn't have the energy to grow their businesses and were just in survival mode. Some people pulled back in their business and sought outside work to create more stability and safety nets and some people closed their businesses entirely.  My hope is that if any of this is your story that you have given yourself so much love and support and realize none of those things are failure or bad or your fault. Being flexible and adjusting accordingly is actually a healthy thing to do. I wanted to share some things that helped me in my own process of shifting my energy and letting go, that may be helpful for you if your are in need of a shift too. I identified 15 things, not all happened at once they built on each other. Take a listen and let me know what you think. Will you try one of these? What do you do to shift your mood, mindset and energy? I would love to hear from you. Send me a DM or email [email protected].

If you're neurodivergent, you likely struggle with focus. You spend hours and hours (and hours!) trying to get a task done but are derailed by distractions from every direction. And most of these distractions are manufactured by YOU. The 40+ tabs on your computer, the smartphone "calling your name," the random idea that you need to research RIGHT THIS MINUTE. And, my favorite distraction, social media.   It's no wonder we struggle to get work done.   Though technology has created so many ways to distract us, it's also created ways to help us focus on what's important to us. And this week on the podcast, Jessie Patterson is sharing what some of these are.   Jessie helps people unlock their authentic dream life, something she did herself by figuring how to be more productive while working less and living a nomadic lifestyle. As a fellow neurodivergent, Jessie understands how our brains work and has tips, tricks, and tools you can try so you can live your own best life.   About Jessie Patterson: Jessie Patterson helps clients unlock their time to build an authentic dream life. As a former Real Estate Development Executive, Jessie was able to reimagine her digital habits to unlock 38 days of her year back when she thought she had ZERO extra time.   Jessie is now focused on the most valuable real estate in the world...the mind & body. As a Transformational Coach and founder of NourishX she helps her clients with keys to unlocking their dreams via coaching programs and online courses.   Every purchase provides 15%+ towards impact partners that are working to create a world where all kids have quality education, housing, food, and water.   You can learn more on Jessie's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links and Resources: Focusmate Win the Day Are Your Stories Keeping You Stuck? Foundations of Focus for Entrepreneurs Time Stamps:   [1:02] - Spending time in a magical place [1:43] - Welcoming Jessie Patterson [2:40] - Made small changes to unlock time, energy, and mindset to get days back in her life [6:04] - Honor your differences when it comes to your dream life [8:43] - You can question the narrative [10:29] - Learning that being dyslexia is part of being neurodivergent [12:56] - Focusing on your creativity is a more fun world than focusin gon what you don't do well [14:58] - Reimagine how you could live [15:42] - Your mind is a jail that keeps you blocked [16:34] - We spend 2.5 hours a day on social…that's 38+ days of your year [17:30] - Are your stories keeping you stuck [18:46] - The power of the digital detox [19:29] - How often do you pick up your phone and hours pass? [21:30] - Getting caught up in your business is a fallacy [22:11] - Instead of Googling something, make a note in Notes and go back to it later [24:0]5 - Allow yourself rest so you can show up as your best self [26:30] - Working too much is robbing us of our happiness [29:46] - Work on one task for 10 minutes [31:01] - Strategies to unblock time [33:47] - Over 45% of our day is habits [36:15] - Don't beat yourself up if something feels hard [39:55] - Start with one small thing

What happens to the business owner who has obsessive-compulsive disorder? They figure out how their brains work and end up growing an amazing business and hosting an informative and entertaining podcast.   Okay, not everyone does that but this week's guest, Annie Ruggles, sure does.   This week's episode is the first in a series called My Neurodivergent Brain, where I talk to neurodivergent business owners…diagnosed with OCD, ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and more. We talk about their experience in life and business, what their diagnosis looked like, how it's impacted their business and life, and how they found their superpowers.   Annie has come to embrace her OCD and views her compulsions as grounding and self-soothing most of the time. She looks at her behavior and thoughts as sometimes self-protective and sees OCD as benefiting her client work.   I hope that today's episode, and the rest in this series, help you to embrace your own neurodivergence and start to see ways you can embrace your uniqueness as a superpower that not everyone gets to experience.   About Annie Ruggles: For over a decade, Annie has harnessed her Hulk-like disdain for hard-sales, tacky self-promotion, and overly competitive sleazeballs as inspiration to help people find better ways to grow their small businesses.    She has guided hundreds of people toward making deeper connections, lasting impressions, and friendlier, more lucrative transactions and conversations. Her pride and joy is her podcast, Too Legitimate to Quit: Instantly Actionable Small Business Strategies with a Pop Culture Spin. Visit her website and follow her on Instagram.   Links and Resources: Episode 128: Stop Avoiding the Ask and Start Selling with Annie Ruggles Non-Sleazy Sales Academy Too Legitimate to Quit Podcast On Boundaries, Burnout, and So I Married an Axe Murderer The Coach Who Would Not Sell Join Inner Circle Foundations of Focus for Entrepreneurs: Focus on what matters to you without burning out Time Stamps:   [4:21] - Welcome to Annie [6:44] - Annie's diagnosis and how she got there [9:49] - There's a beating up of yourself because you think you're not good enough [12:44] - Being OCD vs. a pain in the ass [15:50] - Stress exacerbate the symptoms [16:27] - When done right, compulsions are grounding and self-soothing behaviors [18:48] - Is it compulsion or impulsivity from ADHD [21:19] - How long ago Annie received her diagnosis [22:02] - "Unwanted thought syndrome" [22:40] - Self protective behaviors sabotage us [28:02] - The benefits of OCD in client work [30:35] - Ride the wave - when you're activated you're on fire [33:22] - How COVID impacted small business [34:28] - She can work next to people, but would not choose that [35:31] - leaning into energy [37:03] - We became entrepreneurs because we wanted that control [38:55] - what do you need today in order for your brain to work as an asset, not a hindrance [42:42] - If you're resonating with these ideas, go to the doctor to get a diagnosis [44:05] - Caution is helpful as self-protection unless it starts to mess with your quality of life [44:31] - Give the thought a gentle kiss  [47:05] - More about Annie

I'm finding more and more entrepreneurs who are navigating divorce while trying to keep their businesses afloat. And that's not just because I'm a couples therapist. I think many people have finally gotten to the point where what they've been doing isn't working or they're just not happy, and they decide that divorcing is the right path forward.   That's the case for this week's podcast guest, Casey Gromer, fractional CMO and host of the Female Founders Breaking Boundaries podcast. Casey is sharing her story of recently getting divorced while still trying to show up in exactly the same way in her business.   I'm sure it will come as no surprise to you that this just isn't possible. Even in an amicable split, there's so much going on and so many life changes that you have to give yourself some grace for taking care of yourself.   I'm so grateful that Casey was willing to share her story and her struggles because I know she is not alone in this journey.   Throughout the episode, Casey and I reference my interview on her podcast where we talk more about the emotional side of divorce. Find a link to that episode below!   About Casey Gromer: Casey Gromer is a 20-year business and marketing expert. As an MBA, she is widely regarded as a go-to source for visionary women entrepreneurs who dream of building businesses to run without them. She is passionate about creating a more equitable landscape for women in business and working to remove common barriers that hold them back.   Casey is podcast host of Female Founders Breaking Boundaries where she encourages women to forgo stale, inflexible business advice in favor of more realistic, workable ways of running their business while still achieving success. Additionally, Casey is the author of "A Fresh Wave of Marketing," a no-nonsense guide to simplifying the creation of business and marketing strategy.   As founder of C-Suite Boutique, Casey currently serves women entrepreneurs in an advisory role. Under her leadership, clients have scaled their businesses while working less and spending more time doing things they love. The industries she's supported include retail, e-commerce, service businesses, and manufacturing. Links and Resources: C-Suite Boutique Forge Your Own Path with Casey Gromer Female Founders Breaking Boundaries Listen to Amber on Casey's podcast Foundations of Focus Course  Hannah Smolinski YouTube Channel Connect with Casey on LinkedIn Follow Casey on Instagram Time Stamps:   [0:50] - Casey's previous episode [1:36] - Who is Casey [2:09] - Double podcast and Casey's story [4:09] - Foundations of Focus course is on presale [6:03] - The impact that going through a divorce has on your business [7:34] - Where Casey is in this process [9:31] - In stage of life where divorce is more prevalent [10:35] - Even if you were the one to initiate the divorce, you still haven't processed it all [11:01] - The reality of starting the process of divorce [12:20] - The waiting to return to normal [13:28] - Different stages of the divorce process [17:07] - Being upset doesn't mean you made the wrong decision [18:25] - You want to achieve goals, but things feel crappy right now [20:17] - Now that I know what's happening, how can I proactively restructure work  [22:48] - We discount the impact this stuff has on us [23:29] - Adding tasks to your list that you might not have been doing before [26:16] - Letting go of your partner's income [30:04] - Let go of some of your work and outsource it [32:30] - Fear that your reputation is being tarnished  [34:51] - Set expectations with clients and know you'll recover if they leave [36:40] - Getting insurance is expensive [38:13] - The euphoria is gone [40:41] - You don't have to be superhuman [41:45] - What she's thinking about as she moves forward  [44:23] - Reassess and let go of the "have to" [45:44] - You can't work your own magic on yourself [48:25] - You "should" know something but it's not the same when you're in it [49:05] - Hairstylists don't cut their own hair, tattoo artists don't give themselves tattoos [53:26] - What's happening is normal; learn from Casey's mistakes

It's that time of year again. You know, the time when you've blocked off the holidays so you can relax and enjoy them with your family. But then a client needs something from you so you decide to "just" work that one day.   In reality, that one call or one day will most likely turn into you completely cannibalizing your time off. So when it's time to go back to work in the new year, you're frustrated and frazzled before your butt even hits your office chair.   This year, give yourself permission to actually take time off. And while you're at it, don't overburden yourself with home projects that you want to get done. Stop stealing your own rest time!   Links and Resources: Join the Inner Circle Time Stamps:   [0:49] - It's holiday fatigue time [1:32] - The worst part of it all [2:17] - Stop cannibalizing your holidays [3:43] - we're not looking at the bigger picture cost of that [4:58] - what's the real ROI of taking on some work during your time off [7:20] - question working during your down time and ask a friend [9:56] are we expecting ourselves to still be productive during down time

You've probably been told that because you're neurodivergent, you'll struggle with being organized. Because it's all so overwhelming to deal with "stuff." As someone who is both neurodivergent and incredibly organized, I call bullshit.   It's not about one or the other, it's about finding the systems that work for you.   This week on the podcast, professional organizer and declutter coach Wendy Zanders is taking on the critics who think that neurodivergent business owners are doomed to be unorganized for life. She shares her own story of an ADD diagnosis and how she's created systems that work for her and her family.   Wendy's clients have been successful in maintaining their spaces because she listens to them and takes their family dynamics into consideration when decluttering with them. Because what might work for my family and me might not work at all for yours. Every home and office needs a system designed specifically for the people who will use and maintain them.   Listen in for Wendy's tips and tricks as well as permission to let some things go, depending on what season you're in right now.   About Wendy Zanders: Wendy Zanders is a professional organizer, declutter coach, and special needs mama who is passionate about helping the special needs community take their homes and lives FROM Overwhelmed TO Simplified. An underperformer in grade school due to undiagnosed attention deficit disorder (ADD), Wendy worked hard and surpassed the expectations of everyone around her. Early in her career, she found that she had a knack for systems and organizing, but found herself living in a totally disorganized home after several episodes of depression. She helps the special needs community get organized by helping them identify what has created the disorder in their lives, and by helping them create systems so they can get back in control of their possessions and homes. Links and Resources: Your Declutter Coach Follow Wendy on Instagram Connect with Wendy on LinkedIn Marie Kondo folding Join the Inner Circle Time Stamps:   [1:06] - Organization from the neurodivergent brain [3:55] - More about Wendy [7:16] - Sometimes you have to find your own way [8:50] - You didn't fail; you need to figure out how you learn [10:17] - Neurotypical organizers don't work well with neurodiverse people [17:51] - Just because you're ADHD doesn't mean you'll be disorganized [22:44] - Sometimes you find money when you declutter [24:25] - The house isn't a priority when you're taking care of family members [26:50] - It's hard to ask for help -  [29:20] - Find ways to divide and conquer using body doubling [31:06] - Using music to get kids to clean their rooms [32:55] - Tips for dealing with business paperwork [34:45] - Organizing yearly statements and receipts [36:30] - To digitize or keep physical copies of paperwork [38:14] - The papers hold memories [40:15] - It might be difficult to let go of things in the special needs community because of what's important to the kids [42:30] - How to make the Marie Kondo method work for you Understanding theory and bigger picture that different things work for different people

We hear from all the business coaches and growth strategists about the importance of niching down in order to grow. It makes sense…The more narrow our offering and ideal clients, the easier it is for others to refer us.   But this week's guest, Cara Steinmann, doesn't think we should niche down but rather "niche up." That doesn't mean you build out a bigger client base, it means that you know your limiting beliefs, understand how you've compromised your core values in the past, know how you want to impact the world, and more. And once you know this, you can start to present yourself in a different way, specializing and being really specific about what you do and who you do it for.   As neurodivergent business owners, we're not too much, and we shouldn't have to try to make ourselves smaller. We can and should be ourselves, however big that is.   Of course, as two ADHD business owners talking on the podcast, it took us a while into the conversation to get to this topic. But there's so much that Cara and I align on that we addressed, including why women get diagnosed with ADHD so much later than men, why connecting and networking isn't a numbers game, why being authentically you is so important, and ditching the patriarchal narrative.   Be sure to tune in! There's sure to be a part two with Cara.   About Cara Steinmann: Cara Steinmann is a business development strategist who works with purpose-driven women entrepreneurs to help them build strategic partnerships that open doors to new opportunities. She uses her background in psychology and behavioral science to connect the right people, creating mutually beneficial relationships and entrepreneurial allies.  Links and Resources: Cara's website Connect with Cara on LinkedIn Episode 150: Learning and Growth in 150 Episodes Biz Chix Podcast Time Stamps:   [1:00] - The importance of intentionally connect to others [4:06] - Who is Cara Steinmann [4:38] - Networking needs a rebrand [6:04] - Two reasons you're struggling with connecting and networking [7:15] - Don't hire someone to engage for you on LinkedIn [7:42] - Connecting isn't a numbers game; it's a quality person game [8:57] - Plenty of awesome people out there;  give a shit [10:49] - Focus on quality [12:52] - ADHD diagnoses in early 40s [18:32] - Have self-acceptance; you don't have to work how the world "typically" works [20:53] - The more you appreciate how different you are, the more you'll appreciate diversity in general [22:22] - Conscious competence  and unconscious competence [23:32] - Cara doesn't believe in competition [25:47] - When you're authentic and feel seen, others can reflect back a kinder version of ourselves [26:32] - The numbers game is deeper relationships [28:25] - People want to be seen for themselves, not who they are trying to portray [30:55] - Cara hates the term "niching down" [31:52] - What niching up is [34:14] - Get curious about everything [34:50] - Peeling away layers of patriarchal conditioning [36:00] - Use curiosity and wondering  [37:09] - Curiosity as a false weakness; questioners are important [38:42] - As women, we need to question everything [41:10] - You can't do effective biz development unless you've niched up and are clear on what you do, who you do it for, and why it matters [45:14] - You can't put boundaries in place if you don't know what you value

One of the biggest challenges of many business owners is managing their money. Not because they're not making money, but because they aren't taking care of it. Without some clear actions around your money on a consistent basis, you might not make the best decisions about it.   In the neurodivergent world, it can feel really overwhelming to sit down and "take care of your money." Because what do you need to do? How long will it take? What if I'm not happy with my revenue and would rather just ignore it all?   This week on the podcast, I'm sharing what a money power hour might look like for you. Some of the things we need to do should probably be done weekly while others you can do monthly, quarterly, or even annually.    So get out whatever you use to take notes and listen in! It's time to prioritize your money.   Links and Resources: Join Inner Circle Scanner Pro Time Stamps:   [0:52] - The power of coworking and accountability [2:18] - Take a step back to do bigger picture stuff  [2:40] - Tracking money and paying attention to it can make or break a biz [3:20] - What should you do during a CEO money hour? [3:58] - Set aside an hour each week--or less, if needed! [5:23] - Why we're looking at our money [6:52] - Make sure you're reconciling your accounts [10:00] - Scan your receipts [13:36] - Follow up on outstanding invoices [15:02] - Create a spending plan for your business [16:42] - Create revenue projections and goals [18:50] - Analyze your pricing [21:15] - Assess the services you're using [23:25] - Renegotiate services [25:50] - Analyze the profitability of your offerings [29:43] - Money manifestation activities [32:34] - Start one habit, then add another

Every day, we tell ourselves stories about our business, our life, our relationships. And often those stories limit our success.    I'm guilty of it, and I hear these limiting stories from clients every day. It's hard to get out of our comfort zones and find a new way, and it often takes someone looking from the outside in to remind us that it's possible.   In today's episode, I'm sharing some of the stories you might be telling yourself and how you can reframe those stories into something that keeps you propelling forward. There are people who can help you, if you only let them.   Links and Resources: Join the Inner Circle membership Time Stamps:   [0:46] - There's something in the air that's keeping us stuck [1:43] - Getting stuck in the outline cycle [2:29] - We're staying stuck in our story because it's comforting [4:05] - There's clarity on the outside of the story [5:33] - There are ways to give yourself some down time  [6:30] - We need to let go of the story and open ourselves to the possibility of it being different [8:06] - If you want to learn about it, you can [11:07] - You aren't alone in this place [12:01] - See the possibility in this change [13:25] - Reflect and assess what's going on in life and what you want to be different

Entrepreneurship can be really challenging, especially when you're neurodivergent. We're responsible for our own energy and ensuring that the long to-do list we make for ourselves gets done each day or week.   But long to-do lists don't work for our ADHD brains. In fact, they probably hinder our progress.   Instead, we need little hacks to create momentum in our business, even when (especially when) we're just not feeling it right now. I've had many of those moments where my toddler brain threw a tantrum instead of getting the work done. So I've had to get creative on how I regroup and keep moving forward.   And sometimes, a little bit of accountability doesn't hurt either.    Listen in this week as I share six ways you can create more momentum in your business if you're feeling stuck right now. More momentum in business usually means feeling better in life too. Who doesn't want that!?   Links and Resources: Join the Inner Circle membership Time Stamps:   [0:44] - Having the most productive day, week, or season? Or not? [1:50] - Creating momentum is so underutilized in entrepreneurship [2:33] - My brain is like a toddler [3:55] - Have a realistic to-do list [6:37] - It's time to get organized [8:35] - Have a plan [10:30] - Be aware of momentum blockers [11:04] - If you're going through ahrd things, give yourself a break [12:20] - Hormones will impact your energy and productivity [13:19] - Every time you task switch, you lose momentum [14:03] - Don't skip your eating schedule [15:06] - Have a morning routine [18:18] - Each day is a fresh start [22:33] - What little momentum maker will you do today [22:28] - Get more support for yourself

We all have 100+ things on our to-do lists and probably at least 100 more things in our heads that we need to do. There's no way to remember it all or get it all done. It's pretty common to brain dump a list of to-do's for the day, setting ourselves up for failure because the list is too long, we have too many distractions, and/or we simply lose momentum.   Relate much?   Well, Easily Distracted Entrepreneur, you may continue to be frustrated because you're more focused on the list and checking things off the list than you are on the actual planning of the to-do's. And that's what we're talking about this week on the podcast with productivity coach Mridu Parikh.    Listen in as we talk about the value of the brain dumps, but the power behind the planning. Mridu shares why you should only have five things on your big list and how to approach getting each of those things done. And be sure to listen through to the end, where she shares a tip that will make you feel silly but is sure to help you get that nagging task off your list.   About Mridu Parikh: Ready to get control of all your demands? Then you need Mridu Parikh, The Stress Squasher, on speed dial. Overwhelmed women business owners work with Mridu to prioritize and systemize so they take control of their demands and distractions – at home and at work. She is passionate about getting women the results they want, whether it's doubling their revenue, losing weight, or creating stronger boundaries. Mridu is a productivity coach, founder of Life Is Organized, host of the Productivity On Purpose podcast, and author of the best-seller, Accomplish It. Connect with her on LinkedIn and follow her on Instagram. Links and Resources: The Power of When by Michael Breus, PhD Join the Inner Circle Get access to Mridu's free productivity resources  Productivity on Purpose Podcast Time Stamps: [1:30] - Only two months left in the year [4:20] - People need to deal with time and stress right now [5:58] - Most women biz owners feel like they have to do more to be successful [7:58] - Writing a list of what you need to do takes the discerning out of it [9:14] - Getting it on paper is really cathartic [11:30] - Create a gotta do it list; everything else is gravy [12:50] - Don't set yourself up for failure [14:23] - Have 5 things on your list a day [15:50] - What are the top 5 things today that will make me feel most successful when my head hits the pillow tonight [19:56] - How to approach the list of five [23:07] - 90% of people work better in the morning [28:56] - The Power of When and paying attention to the rhythms of the day [31:36] - Structure scares people [34:27] - Anything more than one step is a project [38:01] - How to get back on track when you find yourself floating  [39:39] - Actually state what you're going to do out loud

Whether you come from a corporate background or not, trying to secure corporate clients can feel intimidating. Corporate has a stuffy, stiff reputation that may not align with the way you want to do business.   Or maybe your brand is whimsy, fun, and loud. And that's not really what corporate looks like, does it?   But in reality, corporate is filled with human beings who all have their own personalities. So it's not surprising that something fun and outside the box might very well be what sets you apart from someone else…and exactly what gets you hired.   That's what this week's guest, Anniedi Essien, found when she and a friend started a YouTube channel during the pandemic. With only 10 followers, they secured a multi-year licensing deal and corporate contract from their channel.   It's all about the sparkle and swagger that you bring to the table, according to Anniedi. And I couldn't agree more. Be sure to listen in!   About Anniedi Essien:   Anniedi Essien is CEO and Founder at Idem Spark where she advises business leaders on building the workforce of the future by fusing cutting edge well-being and leadership development strategies. Anniedi delivers keynotes, workshops, consulting and executive coaching programs for diverse audiences. She loves teaching top performers how to slay their well-being and career goals with powerful insights as a former corporate health and wellness executive.   Anniedi is a trusted advisor to C-level and senior leaders and was a founding member of PwC's New Entrants and Innovators in Health consulting practice at Strategy&. She drove growth strategies, disruptive innovation, and employer driven wellness solutions for the top global brands, including Fortune 10 clients such as Walmart Health. Prior to PwC, Anniedi designed market expansion strategies for Medtronic, executed strategic partnerships for EmblemHealth, and managed corporate wellness programs for GE Energy. Her work on social determinants of health has been recognized by the American Association for World Health / World Health Organization.   With twenty years of health industry experience, workforce well-being expertise, and a people first mindset, Anniedi is passionate about human flourishing. She is a Co-Founder of Healthtech Women Charlotte, a non-profit dedicated to getting more women into the C-Suite. Anniedi co-created W.I.D.E. Dynamic Dialogues to build inclusive cultures that are more responsive to the emerging needs of a diverse workforce by optimizing employee well-being.   Anniedi holds an MBA in Strategy from NYU Stern School of Business and a BA in Biomedical Ethics from Brown University. She is a foodie, yoga lover and avid karaoke enthusiast.   Links and Resources: Swagger School Seal the Corporate Deal Join the Inner Circle Time Stamps: [2:58] - More about Anniedi [4:39] - Shifting to work/life harmony instead of outdated work/life balance [6:10] - The time we spend outside traditional health system has a big influence on our wellness [8:15] - Women and folks of color experiencing burnout more than others [9:08] - It's hard to recognize you've lost your sparkle if you're climbing the ladder [11:20] - When you're in that swagger, that's when things really start to open up; but it's scary to trust that [13:02] - The things we shy away from are the things we need to spotlight [18:28] - Being an accidental entrepreneur [20:23] - How she transitioned to get the sparkle back  [21:43] - What's your meaningful purpose? [32:45] - Your business shouldn't suck out your soul [33:08] - How do you go from soul sucking to soul singing [36:15] - Being authentic about hard parts make it so meaningful to others

I love the idea of looking for things to celebrate in the everyday. So when my podcast manager told me that episode 150 of the podcast was coming up, I wanted to do something special.    Rather than record a solo episode (which she knows is a big challenge for me), she suggested that someone interview me for the episode. And since she's a podcaster too, she was the perfect candidate for this!   This week on the podcast, Abby Herman, podcast manager and owner of The Content Experiment, interviews me on my own podcast to talk about how my business has changed over the years, how podcasting has impacted my business, what I've learned in the last 150 episodes, and what I'd do differently if I had to start over today.   Of course, we cover a whole lot more in this episode, and it was so fun to hear some of the insights that Abby has had over this last year of working together. Be sure to tune in!   About Amber Hawley: Amber Hawley is a licensed therapist, multiple biz owner and former tech industry drop out who works with high-achieving, easily distracted entrepreneurs with mindset and strategies to stop suffering for success. As host of the Easily Distracted Entrepreneur podcast (yes, we're going meta here!), she supports ADHD {and ADHD-ish} business owners who live in Distraction City to overcome shiny object syndrome. Links and Resources: PinkyPatelOfficial Abby Herman - The Content Experiment Join the Inner Circle Time Stamps: [2:45] - Being a multipassionate entrepreneur [11:50] - Team and support networks help with consistency [13:08] - Life is constant change and transition [14:00] - Go back to what you know works [14:51] - The pros and cons of different styles of podcasting [18:52] - You can stop doing solo episodes when you're at Oprah status [21:36] - Podcasting is a huge confidence booster [23:15] - This business shit is hard [24:29] - There's a difference between confidence and arrogance [26:13] - False vulnerability is icky [27:02] How the podcast has changed the business [29:25] - mission of podcast influenced mission of biz [33:05] - Everything transitions and changes [35:03] - How to get big names on the podcast [36:33] - Fangirling works! [37:25] - How Amber fangirled (stalked, maybe) Pat Flynn [40:15] - Don't interview the douche canoes [41:16] - Do more of what brings you joy [45:20] - Be thoughtful and caring about who is on your podcast  [45:55] - It's about what value can I deliver to my audience [50:12] - Slow down and create more foundation [53:45] - Keep the excitement going [54:28] - I continue because of the people who are listening

Creating and selling courses is just one way to scale or grow your business. But the whole goal is for students to do the work and be successful. It's hard to do that when only about 10% of buyers actually go through the coursework.   Eman Zabi is trying to shift that narrative through a unique course platform designed specifically to support business owners in starting and growing their businesses. And this week on the podcast, she's sharing what she's learned about creating courses and making them easy to consume.   Eman and I discuss breaking down the barriers neurodivergent people have around the current online learning structure, particularly around business courses, what accessibility could look like, why preselling is so important, and where to find the support you need around completing a course and taking action.   About Eman Zabi: Eman Zabi is the founder of The Scribesmith - a launch copywriting agency that specializes in research-based strategy and conversion copy for digital products. Through her work at the Scribesmith, Eman realized that there were some fundamental flaws in online learning: she created Terrain to help entrepreneurs stop hoarding courses and start building momentum in their businesses. Eman graduated with a degree in International Politics from Georgetown University (which explains her love for the nerdy stuff) and has been writing for as long as she can remember. When not working, she can be found drinking copious amounts of tea, playing with her cat, Cat, and cooking up new ideas for the Scribesmith team to take on. Links and Resources: Join the Inner Circle Terrain Follow Terrain on Instagram Follow Terrain on TikTok Follow Eman on Twitter Time Stamps: [3:08] - Who is Eman Zabi [4:32] - How Eman got into this work [5:24] - The course industry is deeply flawed [7:10] - You can love your clients and still not feel challenged [8:47] - If there's financial pressure, it's hard to be creative and innovative because we have to make money to pay our bills [11:15] - Less than 10% of people complete the courses they sign up for [14:23] - Figure out a system to hand off a VA to implement [16:54] - Creating an ecosystem that grows with you that doesn't compromise your revenue [21:40] - Block out your calendar to build what you want [23:24] - Helpful (and unhelpful) course creation [24:35] - Getting the list done is too overwhelming [25:55] - It's simple but it feels like you're climbing Everest [26:24] - Building in a reward system to get people engaged [29:34] - UI and UX really does matter when it comes to neurodivergent students [35:05] - How to grow your business sustainably [37:41] - What kind of courses you'll find at Terrain

With so much turmoil going on right now, our world has been turned upside down in so many ways. Many people, including business owners, are feeling this pressure to get a lot of things done or try to make an impact or shift. At the same time, they also are overwhelmed with not knowing where to focus, and so they feel stuck.   There's a way around feeling stuck, and it takes looking into the brain and how it works. This week on the podcast, behavioral economist Melina Palmer is sharing how to use brain science to be more productive and meet your goals. We discuss why it's so difficult to change your self-talk, why starting that new habit is so challenging, why you might hate seeing yourself on video (and how to overcome that) and so much more.   Melina, the host of The Brainy Business podcast, is on a personal mission to make your business more effective and brain friendly. Don't miss this episode to learn more about how the brain works and how to avoid productive procrastination to actually get things done.   About Melina Palmer:   Why do people say one thing and do another? What really drives behavior? How does the brain actually work – and how can we best communicate with it? What does that mean for companies? Melina Palmer, host of The Brainy Business podcast, has dedicated her career to seeking answers to these questions for herself and her clients. Melina uses behavioral economics to help everyone from global corporations to entrepreneurs understand the psychology of why people buy, unlocking the secrets of small changes that make a big difference via her podcast, public speaking, and column on Inc.com. The result is messaging, branding, advertisements, pricing, and products that are more "brain-friendly" (meaning more leads, conversions, and revenue).   Links and Resources: Indestructible: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life by Nir Eyal Nir Eyal Brainy Busines podcast episode Master Your Mindset masterclass Samuel Salzer Brainy Business podcast episode TheBrainyBusiness.com @TheBrainyBiz – Instagram   Time Stamps: [1:36] - About Melina Palmer [3:13] - Melina's superpower [4:25] - Applicable behavioral science - a new branch [5:45] - Getting things done, make an impact, and feeling in the swirl [7:01] - 99% of decisions are made by subconscious brain [10:50] - Your brain is processing 275,000 things that aren't important [12:17] - What's coming up may not be what's useful [14:30] - Why it's so difficult to change your self-talk [17:30] - Bikeshedding [19:53] - "Busy" isn't the stamp of awesomeness anymore [21:21] - The opposite of distraction is traction [23:05] - - "I'll start Monday" effect [26:56] - When you only get 3 things done today and feel bad about yourself [29:47] - Perfectionism gets us stuck [30:23] - There's a good enough point where you can keep going [31:52] - Set your goal on dream, but focus on the reality of right now [33:31] - Our challenge with video is focusing illusion [36:20] - The only way we see ourselves is in a mirror; we look different on video [38:40] - Invest in what's important to you

There's so much pressure to do business the "right" way, whatever that means. I don't know about you, but if it doesn't feel good to me I'm probably not doing it. And much of what the "experts" say is the right thing just doesn't feel right.   When you're neurodivergent and highly sensitive, it's important to look inside and honor doing things the way you want to. That's why you left your day job and started your own gig, right?   This week on the podcast, I'm talking with Sam Pollack, a copywriter and creative strategist who is helping neurodivergent business owners to do business in a more sustainable way. And really…that's what we should have been doing all along.   From the challenges of visibility to everyone calling themselves highly sensitive these days to judging your productivity to doing the work without feeling the stress, we really cover everything. At my longest episode to date, you're going to get it all! About Sam Pollack: Samantha Pollack is a copywriter and creative strategist who approaches marketing from a Feminist Framework. She works with mission-driven, socially responsible companies who are shaking up status quos and reshaping our culture by doing super cool work in the world. She's also the founder of The Highly Sensitive Business Owner, a 12-week program that helps neurodivergent business owners create healthier, more sustainable systems in their work.   Links and Resources: Cult of Personality Follow Sam on Instagram Connect with Sam on LinkedIn Time Stamps: [1:29] - Q4 Goal Planning Workshop [3:05] - Who is Sam Pollack [4:33] - Created a program her own way, without videos [4:52] - Honor doing things the way you want to, not what you're "supposed" to do [5:33] - Wrote it and launched it; avoiding hierarchical  [6:37] - Listening to something can be easier to take in info [7:40] - You can do what you want [8:15] - You don't have to have it all figured out from the beginning [9:09] - How can you know your niche when you haven't done the work yet [11:15] - You have to be known for something [12:58] - Most people started because of something they didn't want [13:10] - Why did you start your business?  [15:02] - Do the work you're great at without being stressed out by b.s. that doesn't matter [18:43] - if you're highly sensitive, you haven't done enough work - my mindset [19:40] -Your sensitivity informs how you work with someone [22:00] - Why is everyone standing around the house on fire [23:33] - So many people hear they're too sensitive growing up [25:24] - Sensitive people are the toughest people [27:08] - Everyone is calling themselves empaths and people who aren't highly sensitive are feeling shit on [31:40] - People get stuck on milestones; done is better than perfect [33:03] - Breaking down the highly sensitive biz owner [34:34] - Be mindful of your time and energy  [36:05] - There's a balance between being highly sensitive and expecting accommodations to be made for you [37:28] - It's hard to be authentic all the time [41:50] - Being in the room is different than being at a bigger level [42:33] - You can't have a successful biz if people don't know who you are [44:25] - Energy and sensitivity is a spectrum [47:15] - You're not wrong for being yourself [57:10] - Sam's strategy for showing up and doing what works [59:23] - Doing what you want with your body and in politics [1:01:05] - Using strategy to drive your business [1:07:26] - Why you shouldn't listen on 1.5x speed [1:08:10] - Shout out to Dina Martin [1:10:21] - There's a Reason sensitive people seek out entrepreneurship [1:10:37] - Let go of 8 hour work day - no one is actually doing that

There's no such thing as the perfect schedule or routine. Sure we all have schedules and routines that work for us, but that's the key. They work for US.   At the same time, things change. We go through transitions in life and business and we have to make adjustments to how we work. As this episode is being released, we're in a transition phase. Fall is here, if not officially then in spirit because school has started in most parts of the U.S. This means mornings might be busier and early afternoons are a whole lot quieter. And if you have kids in school, you're probably shifting things around a bit to accommodate this change. I sure am.   This week on the podcast, I'm talking about different seasons of change and transition and what I plan to focus on in this particular season. Things don't always have to stay the same and there's no perfect solution for everyone. But when you try out some things and make little shifts and changes, you will find what works best for you.   And if you need support to hold yourself accountable or to figure out how to clean up some of the mess that's leftover from summertime, you're invited to join us in the Inner Circle. Find out more about this monthly membership here! Links and Resources: Inner Circle Membership Time Stamps: [0:42] - Why fall is the best [2:14] - Managing transitions and shifting seasons [3:44] - Want to surprise me for my birthday? [4:46] - Fall transition is a natural time to revisit some of your routines [6:12] - I am not a morning person [6:55] - What I plan to focus on [9:06] - I want to be more present when my kids get home from school [9:56] - Always feel like I'm in work mode because I haven't done the most important thing first [10:53] - How are you taking care of yourself [11:20] - Big reminders [13:05] - Sometimes you need some support

No one's immune to having a crap day. It's what you do during that crap day that will determine whether or not you grow from it. Because you can take that day and go off the rails, sitting in conflict or you can recognize and accept that you're "stuck behind the garbage truck," as this week's guest puts it.   Mindfulness is so important in life, but especially when it comes to bad days. Merrett Sheridan, this week's guest, talks about using mindfulness to shift your mindset entirely from feeling like you're just surviving in life to truly thriving. How? By playing a game that Merrett explains in the episode.   We touch on the physiology of our emotions, surrendering to those crap days, accepting what life throws at us, interpreting the world in a more positive way, and so much more.   This is one of those conversations that could have gone on for hours. If you've ever had a crap day, you're going to want to listen in because another one is probably around the corner.   About Merrett Sheridan: Merrett Sheridan, LMFT is a mindset coach, speaker and psychotherapist who is passionate about working with individuals seeking to live more authentically and in line with their passions.  Merrett is a 'recovering accountant!' with decades of experience in high tech and who has re-invented herself many times over coming to realize that her authentic self is one of continual change and transformation.  Her mission is to help others discover their true selves and be able to show up more wholly with themselves and others, deepening their experiences and connections in all areas of life. Links and Resources: Are You a Victim of the Fuckening? Share it with Merrett Follow Merrett on Instagram or Facebook Connect with Merrett on LinkedIn Subscribe to Merrett's YouTube channel Time Stamps: [1:54] - Ice cream and coffee--what else is there in life [2:35] - Develop multiple strategies to turn a crap day around [3:45] - Stuck behind the garbage truck days  [5:40] - Goes from the fuckening to the surrendering [7:06] - Others will give us more grace than we are willing to give ourselves [8:45] - Mindfulness is everything [10:08] - Every choice you make is toward or away from health  [12:52] - When we're in a place of reaction, we push the momentum for it to continue [14:40] - We make good choices and things still happen  [16:10] - The more you practice mindfulness, the more it's available to you [17:22] - 95% of days filled with nothing happening  [18:21] - What you focus on and how you interpret the world is how you'll experience it [20:14] - Physiology is at work [22:05] - The journey to happiness is straight through your pain [24:58] - Playing the what if game  [26:38] - If you want to thrive, practice the what if game more [27:42] - Everything we do is about how we feel [28:28] - How do we give ourselves a reprieve right now, when it's hard [33:23] - Flexibility is the key to mental health and acceptance is the door [35:14] - Creating a world where everyone has the ability to share their gifts, talents, and skills with the world

It's happened to everyone. You make a great connection with an amazing new person and you know you'll do great business together. Referrals, networking, maybe you'll even hire them…or vice versa. And then it happens: You get busy and ghost them. Or they ghost you.   I'm overgeneralizing because those aren't the only two options, but you get the picture.   Ghosting happens and we're all at risk of being on both sides of it. It can have a big impact on our businesses, so it's important to know why it happened and how to move on from it. As in, how to get past feeling guilty that you ghosted someone.   Listen in for more! Links and Resources: Join the Inner Circle membership Time Stamps: [0:39] - What is ghosting? [1:06] - Lack of an immediate response is not ghosting [2:10] - Why ghosting happens [4:24] - Where do we do this? [4:40] - How this impacts us [7:45] - We need to have compassion for others [8:58] - When you're the one ghosting [11:18] - Do you have a sustainable plan [14:08] - Make a plan to get back on track  [14:52] - What to do if you've been ghosted

I think just being a business owner is a risk, but completely leaving a high-paying (and stressful) industry to pursue a business that you're not sure will thrive brings a new meaning to risk. But that's exactly what this week's guest did. And it paid off.   Jasmin Haley made a big career change from the dental field to higher education and found that she was one of the only black women speaking on that stage. She knew that others like her needed to hear her story. She was already a successful speaker; she opted to make a business of it and share her wisdom with others.   But there were some mindset shifts Jasmin needed to make. She knew that creating boundaries was the key to showing up for herself so she could show up for clients, audience members, and her family.   This week on the podcast, Jasmin shares why you need to share your story too, how to muster up the courage to do so, how to make sure your work is undeniable, and how you can secure paid speaking opportunities with confidence.   You may not have considered adding speaking as a part of your business. Even if the thought of standing up in front of an audience gives you the sweats, I encourage you to tune in. Every business owner can benefit from setting boundaries, getting more visibility, and speaking up for what they believe in. About Jasmin Haley: Jasmin Haley, MS,  is a nationally-awarded speaker, author, educator, and podcaster dedicated to helping audiences understand that the time is now if they want to make an impact and serve their communities from the heart. Her global consulting firm helps rockstar professionals amplify their voices from the stage. Her inclusive message in burnout, becoming legacy-driven, and how to create presentations that reach the HEART have impacted the lives of her audience members and transformed the professionals she has coached to business growth and successful speaking careers. Links and Resources: Follow Jasmin on Instagram Connect with Jasmin on LinkedIn Couples Fix Podcast Time Stamps: [3:05] - The time is NOW if you want to make an impact [5:02] - More about Jasmin [6:17] - Sometimes people are overlooked but they don't have less to contribute [8:40] - There's a draw to speaking, even though it's scary [10:13] - Stuck with this path after burnout [12:25] - We struggle with our own worthiness; we have a god given right, birthright to share story [14:25] - To have the vision since you were a child, then shift, is really scary [14:56] - Don't quit your job without a plan  [15:26] - Be undeniable [16:38] - Our biggest enemy to getting visible is ourselves [18:55] - What additional value can you bring to speaking so you can get paid and honor yourself  [20:02] - Business is a mental, physical, spiritual journey [21:30] - If you can't take space in personal life, you can't take space in the biz world [25:29] - We accept things that don't feel good to us and we end up feeling resentful [27:40] - You've gone through adversity and come out of it; why won't it happen again when you show up for yourself [29:00] - You need to trust or believe that if you say "no," something else will show up - especially if you're showing up [29:58] - Confidence needs to happen then you need to curate a foundation that can grow through speaking   [31:12] - What makes your heart sing? Be aligned with your story and the work that you do [33:45] - Think about speaking like a regular business  [34:38] - Speaking is a business and there are multiple facets needed to run it [36:14] - The people selecting speakers for events are talking to one another [39:56] - Do what you have to do to support yourself in this journey [40:33] - There are people waiting to hear your story [41:38] - No one talks about getting a job in transition  [42:17] - Your business should be supporting our life, not giving our life to support our business [43:42] - If you're flexible you can find other opportunities that you can leverage into other things [45:42] - Your biz besties can help support you [46:20] - Jasmin's tour of appearances

Money is one of the things that we seem to stress about the most and, as a result, avoid. Sound familiar?   As we enter the countdown to the end of the summer chaos, I'm starting to take some time to organize and declutter. And clearing up money clutter is part of that process.    This week on the podcast, I'm sharing with you a training I did in the Inner Circle, Clearing Money Clutter. It will help you to find hidden money in your life, get your bills paid up and planned out, and just feel lighter.   No one likes money chaos hanging around, but when we don't regularly check in it's really easy to feel it poking at you. So get a notepad and pen handy and get ready to feel so much better about your bank account and pocketbook! Links and Resources: Join the Inner Circle Time Stamps: [0:12] - Summer chaos [1:16] - Feeling the pull to create more calm [3:40] - What is money clutter?  [5:55] - Avoid the ADHD tax [7:30] - Stay in touch with your money [10:55] - Small steps make a big impact

If your business is growing and you're reaching the limit of what you can handle on your own, it might be time to bring on some team members. Most business owners start with administrative support. Neurodivergent business owners, like me, tend to struggle with the little tasks that need to be done. Scheduling appointments, following through with projects, each and every step of a workflow. Sound familiar?   But how do you know who to hire and what to hire them for? It's overwhelming, especially when you think about onboarding and training. (Why can't new team members just read our minds!?)   We've talked about hiring on the podcast before, but I wanted to talk specifically about hiring for an administrative role. And who better to do that than the woman of many talents, Tasha Booth?   In this episode, we talk about how to determine what skills your new hire needs, how to test for them, how to onboard so they'll meet expectations and stick around, and what to consider before even writing that job description. So many great tidbits to consider.   Tune in now and hire that new team member right. About Tasha Booth: Tasha Booth is an agency owner, coach, and podcaster. She is the Founder & CEO of The Launch Guild - a full service launch support agency working with established coaches and course creators with Course & Podcast Launches. Her team is over 20 members strong and works together to support their clients in being able to focus back onto their zones of genius.   Additionally, she mentors Virtual Support Pros, Launch Managers, & Agency Owners who are passionate and ready to grow their businesses while living life on their own terms, and she is the host of the How She Did That Podcast -- a podcast for Virtual Support Pros to learn business and tech tips. Tasha has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, and Entrepreneur, and she has appeared as a guest speaker for various summits and podcasts including Amy Porterfield's "Online Marketing Made Easy," and Julie Solomon's "The Influencer Podcast."   Tasha is an Air Force wife to her husband Scott, stepmom to Grace & Meredith, and work from home dog mom to Stanly and Boomer. In her spare time, she watches true crime tv, sings karaoke, and tends to her organic vegetable garden. Connect with her on LinkedIn. Links and Resources: How She Did That Podcast Join the Inner Circle   Time Stamps: [1:36] - Hiring is the number one pain point right now [4:35] - Clarifying roles of virtual support [7:07] - How to decide what you actually need in your biz [14:07] - Vetting for skillset [15:56] - Always pay for test projects [16:40] - It's an employee market right now [19:30] - I do, we do, you do [20:45] - Being ADHD it's tempting to pass things off vs. following up [21:47] - New team members need to know how best to work with you [26:01] - What questions you should ask when hiring a VA or OBM [29:22] - You can't teach resourcefulness and common sense [32:14] - When you're hiring someone more established [37:09] - Think outside the box [39:50] - Find out more about Tasha

Who else is excited about attending in-person events again? I've attended two conferences recently and I'm thrilled to be able to hug old friends and meet some new ones.    Unfortunately, my ADHD brain is challenged with making sure I'm making the most out of in-person events while I'm there and making sure that I follow through on all the after-conference follow-up. (Follow-up is not my strong suit.)   Do you feel the same?    On this episode, I'm sharing some steps to take before, during, and after any conference or event (in-person or virtual) that will help you ensure your time and entry ticket cost aren't wasted.    I've met some of my favorite people in the world at business events, and events (and some of these people!) have helped me grow my business and my network. Let's make sure the same is true for you!   Links and Resources: How Amber and Maelissa met: Intro to My Biz Bestie Whova app Dex Join Inner Circle Time Stamps: [1:22] - Making the most of events and conferences [2:30] - Most of my favorite people in the world I've met at conferences or events [3:11] - You never know what could come from events [4:38] - Plan ahead for conference [5:13] - My goal for attending Podfest in May [6:01] - how to formulate a plan for that goal [11:58] - How to handle the fomo when you want to attend two sessions at the same time [13:55] - What's your follow-up plan [20:28] - Have a plan, but make it easy [21:20] - Involve your team in how to implement what you've learned [22:15] - Challenges of ADHD when it comes to attending events

For too many of my friends and loved ones, life just doesn't seem to be much fun anymore. And it's not just the pandemic that's ruined fun for us. It's financial pressure, society, the desire to succeed in work or business. And, of course, all the adult responsibilities that we have.   I don't know about you, but I want life to be fun. I look for fun everywhere I go, but sometimes I fall off track and I know I need to recalibrate. Fun is a primary motivator for me, no matter what I'm doing. If it's not fun, being there is a challenge!   This week on the podcast, I'm sharing why so many of us are fun-deprived right now, how you can find more fun in life and business (I'm giving you some really specific examples!), and the impact that fun has had on some of my Inner Circle clients. Honestly, it's a game-changer for many. Links and Resources: The Power of Fun by Catherine Price Fun Deprived Toolbox Join the Inner Circle Email Amber Time Stamps: [0:44] - Are you fun deprived? [1:22] - "You used to be warped, twisted, and hilarious…" [3:20] - If you're the party pooper, it might be time to take a step back [3:36] - The problem with being fun deprived [4:13] - FUN is the primary motivation in business [4:50] - How fun works for one inner circle member [5:47] - The last year has been rough [6:43] - Had to stop waiting for fun to present itself [8:09] - 3 elements for true fun  [10:12] - Getting your spark back  [11:40] - Fun you won't get arrested for [13:02] - How to incorporate fun into your life right now [16:53] - At a loss for what's fun for you? [18:35] - Recreating a fun time  [20:30] - Change up how you use your brain and body

When shit happens in life that we can't control, we can sit back and be complacent or we can step up and take action. Not one to back down from a challenge, I've found myself struggling with how to handle the recent challenges we're facing in the U.S.   I've spent a lot of time talking to both business and therapy clients and the conversations sound eerily similar: we're distracted and unmotivated right now. So I turned to Jax Anderson, my friend and a fellow therapist, who continually impresses me with her activism and loud voice.   I wanted to have a conversation about where we are right now, where we can turn to for support, and what we can do to take care of ourselves. We talk about work ethic, our emotions, what self-care can look like, how to take productive action on social justice issues, and so much more.    It's okay to feel your feelings and take time to sort out how you want to respond. And everyone's form of activism might look different, and your activism might be different today than it will be next week. But the important thing is that we don't rest, because that's what they want and expect us to do.   Listen in to this powerful conversation about what to do next. About Jax Anderson: Jax is a psychotherapist in Wisconsin, where she owns a mental health clinic, raises her daughter and supports human rights and social justice.   She teaches parents about adolescence and the teen brain; as well as how to emotionally connect with their teens.   Links and Resources: Frederick Joseph (follow on Instagram) White Woman Whisperer (follow on Instagram) Follow Jax on Instagram Jax's website Time Stamps: [1:20] - More about Jax [2:42] - Evolution of connections on social media [3:16] - There's a mental health crisis right now [6:25] - How we take care of ourselves matters [7:29] - Checking your privilege [10:43] - Utilize your anger and transition it into activism [11:56] - Self care might be a bath but it can be so much more [13:20] - How Jax attended to her emotions [16:15] - We lean into our habits when things get tough but that might not be what you need at the moment [16:34] People understand physical health, but not mental health [19:38] - Emotions have an entity, where you can see the emotion [20:54] - Validation is free; give it away [22:23] - Taking care of yourself in the outrage and confusion [24:29] - Hustle culture started when we learned how to make money on social media [27:30] - Employees, contractors, customers are all hurting [28:55] - There's a demand on energy with work, kids, partner, friends [31:44] - What do you need right now, give yourself more of that [32:10] - How Jax is taking care of herself emotionally [34:55] - When we're confused and lost and just not sure, we're in limbo [35:12] - Anger, confusion, hopelessness - we find a way to cope with that and just live with it [36:58] - Greed, power, control is toxic and we've been around long enough to know better [37:26] - Educating yourself helps out of confusion and hopelessness and will give you direction [41:40] - Feel your feels and it's okay to feel overwhelmed [43:08] - Jax's parting words of wisdom

We all want to do our best, but many of us neurodivergent entrepreneurs struggle with perfectionism. We see perfection everywhere we look, but never within ourselves.   There's really no such thing as perfection because there's always room for improvement. That's one of the "gifts" of being human, that we thrive on growth and development.   But sometimes perfectionism can hold us back from taking action and our ego gets in the way. We get down on ourselves because something that "should" feel easy is challenging for us. The reality is that letting go of those thoughts and focusing on what truly is easy for us may be a better way.   This week on the podcast, I'm chatting with Dr. Jane Tornatore about perfectionism and the words we need to let go of in order to get ourselves out of the trap. She shares with us some great tips for getting unstuck and I start to rework my own language…and immediately feel the results! About Dr. Jane Tornatore: Dr. Jane Tornatore is a brain geek and self love expert based in Seattle, WA. As a psychotherapist, speaker, and author, she works with intelligent, motivated, high-achieving women who are committed to being better people, yet, they never feel better ENOUGH. Women who want to finally like themselves and stop second-guessing their decisions.    What separates Jane from other coaches and therapists is her down to earth, humorous, practical, and SIMPLE approach. And because of this, her clients become aware of the unconscious beliefs that keep them stuck and unsatisfied, so they can choose thoughts and actions that actually work for them rather than making them feel like crap. She received a master's degree at the University of Illinois, and a PhD at the University of Minnesota. She has authored over 20 articles and published a book—Everything is Perfect, Just Not ME! A Roadmap for Self-Acceptance. Connect with her on LinkedIn and follow her on Instagram. Links and Resources: The Intuitive Decision Making Method Everything is Perfect, Just Not Me: A Roadmap to Self-Acceptance by Dr. Jane Tornatore Bittersweet by Susan Cain Join the Inner Circle Time Stamps: [2:01] - The big benefit of in-person events [2:54] - More about Dr. Jane Tornatore [4:43] - We're the wrong species for perfection [6:15] - The only time perfectionism doesn't show up for Amber [8:30] - Getting out of the perfectionism trap [9:45] - Amber practices letting go [12:30] - Shifting from "have to" to "get to" [13:12] - Love-hate relationship with positive affirmations [15:35] - Toxic positivity that goes along with affirmations can be a turn-off [16:32] - We learn that appreciating ourselves is bad  [17:36] - Imposter syndrome in neurodivergent women is off the hook [19:28] - How will you help people if you're not thriving [20:50] - You don't have to help everyone [23:06] - If it's not for my highest good, it's for no one's highest good [27:30] - Doing something out of alignment won't work in the long run [30:10] - Your ego is going to tell you that you don't know what you're doing [31:15] - It's a good thing babies don't have an ego [33:40] - Radical acceptance of behaviors [37:19] - We never congratulate ourselves when we do something right [39:27] - We've learned: You can be yourself or you can be loved [43:29] - If we feel we're getting extra stuck in perfectionism, it's helpful to see things in a different way [44:27] - Tell yourself you're okay

Imposter syndrome is something that impacts nearly every entrepreneur I know. But it's not just about feeling like you're not worthy to be called an expert in your field. Imposter syndrome shows up in so many different ways.   This week on the podcast, imposter syndrome expert Patrick Casale and I are talking about imposter syndrome for neurodivergent folks, being in alignment with authenticity, how to let go of some of the negative messaging we hold onto, and creating movement to remain in creativity.   Patrick is right there with us in the neurodivergent world, so of course when I called him an expert at the start of this episode, I could feel him cringe. This is something we all work on, forever, and it's about having the right tools in your toolbox to take back your power and get out of your own head.   Whether you think you have imposter syndrome or not, I encourage you to listen in this week. Because we all have stories we tell ourselves and it's time to let them go. About Patrick Casale: Patrick Casale is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health and Addictions Therapist. He is the owner of All Things Private Practice. He is a Private Practice Coach and Strategist. He is a Group Practice Owner, Motivational Speaker, and Podcast Host. He has been featured on Private Practice Startup, Abundance Practice Building, Therapy Reimagined, Not Your Typical Psychotherapist, Selling The Couch, and Modern Therapists. Patrick is a passionate advocate, reducing the shame and stigma of mental health, as well as impostor syndrome. Patrick helps mental health entrepreneurs break the mold, work through their fears and insecurities, and to embrace their Authenticity. Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn and follow him on Instagram.   Links and Resources: All Things Private Practice podcast All Things Private Practice Time Stamps: [1:05] - What happens when you build sustainable systems [3:35] - About Patrick [4:33] - Imposter syndrome is something we all go through as entrepreneurs [5:23] - Perfectionism is a big part of imposter syndrome [8:23] - Neurodivergents will be hypervigilant about what you're putting out there [9:24] - How attachment trauma and messaging we receive as kids factor in [11:45] - Put it out into the world anyway [12:48] - When we start out, the people who see our stuff is really connected to us and they're very supportive [13:40] - If someone takes time out of their day to tell you negative feedback, it says more about them [15:40] - We're out of alignment with being authentic [18:45] - What's helpful for some is offensive to others…and who cares [19:30] - "Why would anyone hire me"  [20:24] - Be a contributor, not a guru [23:25] - Don't get propped up by good feedback or pulled down by negative feedback [24:18] - Give yourself permission to fail [27:00] - Have fun with your imposter syndrome [29:25] - There's a time you need a cocoon and other times you need to get out of the house 30:08 - Don't resist the flow state; go with it [31:48] - Two additional considerations [32:45] - Build the plane as you fly it - you don't need to have every piece of the puzzle put together before you put it out to the world [34:12] - With external accountability, there's enough pressure to finish the thing