Can We Not? Business Is Hard Enough.

Growing community, conference, or business without losing your original vision — and your sanity — can be a picasso painting that easily gets distorted.Host Samantha C. Prestidge chats with Megan Shapiro, construction attorney and founder of the Converge Construction Summit, about strategic community growth, what sustainable business building actually looks like, and how to stop people-pleasing your way into something you didn't mean to create.Megan grew Converge from 13 people in Savannah to 55 in Chicago — and her most important work wasn't any of that growth. It was the months she spent figuring out why her best-reviewed event left her completely drained.In this episode:How to grow a community or event without losing what made it workWhy strategic growth beats fast growth — and how to tell the differenceWhat people-pleasing in business actually costs you, even when things look successfulHow to hear what your audience wants and identify what they actually needWhy sustainable business growth requires knowing your vision before you scale itWhat months of business coaching, therapy, and a mastermind finally unlocked that a successful event couldn't

You’ve hired an assistant before. It didn’t stick. And if you’re honest, you’re not totally sure why.Host Samantha C. Prestidge of Auxo Business Services breaks down the three areas of clarity founders need to have in place before they bring on an assistant — and why skipping them is almost always what tanks the working relationship.This solo episode gets into why even strong assistants fail when founders aren’t ready, the difference between delegating tasks and delegating outcomes, and the Map It → Keep It → Delegate It framework Sam uses with her own clients.Topic BulletsWhy building SOPs before you hire is the wrong starting point — and what to do insteadThe “cart before the horse” pattern that ends most assistant relationships earlyWhat “how you want to play in your business” actually means — and why founders who skip it become micromanagersHow to write a value statement that ties your assistant’s work to real business outcomes, not just your to-do listWhen “I can’t grow because I’m at capacity” is actually a clarity problem, not a bandwidth oneThe Map It, Keep It, Delegate It frameworkBook a delegation strategy session: auxosvs.com/strategyTimestamps00:00 Hidden Expectations00:21 Podcast Mission01:49 Delegation Failures03:31 Skip The SOP Trap04:52 Three Clarity Areas05:08 Map What Youre Building07:18 Keep Your Founder Role09:13 Delegate Outcomes Not Tasks11:49 Map Keep Delegate Framework12:27 Book A Strategy Session

Hiring operations help for your small business is harder than it should be — and most founders are looking at the wrong things when they do it.Ashley Connell, CEO of Prowess Project, has spent seven years matching small business owners with operations partners. She's learned that the skills on a resume tell you almost nothing about whether someone can actually run your business alongside you.In this episode:Why hiring for tech stack and job titles fails service-based business ownersHow to find the right operations partner for your small businessThe four-step framework Ashley's ops partners use from day oneWhy delegating outcomes doesn't work — and what to communicate insteadHow to know if you need an operations partner or if your processes need fixing firstWhat a two-week time study reveals that no hiring process can00:00 The Need for Management00:41 Welcome to Can We Not01:41 Meet Ashley Connell02:22 What is an Ops Partner04:46 Meeting Leah05:42 Flexible and Fulfilling Careers06:59 The 97 Percent Statistic07:38 The Matching Algorithm10:47 Proven Results and Success Stories13:14 Overcomplicating the Journey15:38 Niching Down to Accounting Firms17:22 Testing and Experimentation19:22 Naming the Ops Partner21:20 Experimentation With Intent22:35 Accountability and Feedback26:06 Four Step Delivery Method29:03 Setting Clear Expectations32:24 Behaviors Over Outcomes34:28 Practical AI Integration36:29 Time Study to Simplify38:40 Closing Thoughts

Most sales training teaches you to push harder when a prospect hesitates. Aleasha Bahr teaches you to get curious instead — and the results are hard to argue with.Host Samantha C. Prestidge chats with Aleasha Bahr, author of Black Sheep Sales and founder of a sales coaching practice that helps service business owners build strategies designed around how they actually think and communicate — not a pushy script that never fit them in the first place.They dig into what it looks like to simplify your message down to outcomes people actually want (hint: it's not your list of deliverables), why defining your anti-audience is as important as defining your ICP, and how knowing when to walk away from a sale is the thing that actually brings clients chasing you.LINKSAleasha Bahr on LinkedIn Black Sheep Sales bookAleasha's websiteCatch more episodes: canwenotpodcast.comApply to be a guestHave Sam as a guest on your podcast: [email protected]

You're not running seven apps because you're disorganized. You're running seven apps because each one solved a real problem at the time and nobody ever stopped to ask if the pile still made sense.Host Samantha C. Prestidge chats with Bryant Solomon, co-founder of ControlQore, who did something most founders skip — he went and worked inside his customer's business before building anything. What he found was a back office held together with workarounds, and a team trained on tools that were never designed for them.They get into how chasing the wrong kind of growth poisons an entire industry's relationship with technology, and why the founders who build slow and stay profitable are the ones still standing when the VC-fueled competitors burn out.Links:Bryant Solomon on LinkedIn ControlQore website Converge Summit Josh Luebker (fractional CFO mentioned) on LinkedInMore episodes at canwenotpodcast.comApply to be a guestHave Sam on your podcast: [email protected]

Feeling overworked, overloaded, or like you’re the only one holding everything together in your business?You might be stuck in the trap that catches so many founders and high performers: confusing self-sufficiency with strength.In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, Samantha shares the one mindset shift that helps founders stop being the bottleneck in their own business. Through personal stories, real-life examples, and practical delegation insights, you’ll learn:why asking for help feels uncomfortablehow over-functioning secretly drains your time and energythe difference between being capable and overcompensatinghow to make delegation simple (and not feel like letting go of control)why receiving support is the unlock for scaling without burnoutIf you’re an overwhelmed founder or small business owner trying to grow without losing your sanity, this episode gives you the clarity and permission you didn’t know you needed.00:00 Mom’s lesson that sparked the mindset shift00:58 Why asking for help feels so hard02:32 What happened when Samantha tested “helping”04:15 The hidden plague of over-self-sufficiency07:17 How to stop being the bottleneck in your business09:52 The mindset shift that makes delegation simple

Creative hiring for executive assistants and office managers: learn how to define day-to-day tasks, map soft skills, and find great candidates in unexpected places. We cover transferable skills, small-town recruiting, and why PTA leaders, teachers, and restaurant team leads can shine in admin and EA roles. If job boards are failing you, this will help you think outside the resume.What you’ll learnHow clarity in tasks reveals the right soft skillsWhere to look beyond resumes: PTA, education, and hospitalityWhen “hire for character, train the tech” makes senseCost trade-offs and how to train new hires wellChapters00:00 Intro: creative interviewing and recruiting01:02 Why job clarity matters02:04 Unconventional places to find talent03:32 Leveraging non-traditional candidates05:53 Cost benefits and training06:43 Wrap + how to get helpNeed help? Comment with the role you’re hiring. Connect with Samantha C. Prestidge on LinkedIn or email [email protected]

In this episode, we diverge from the scheduled content plan to address a critical business principle: simplicity. Spurred by early Christmas setups in stores, I discuss the importance of simplicity in both business and personal life. You'll learn three practical strategies to maintain simplicity: 1) Stop being oversubscribed with information, 2) Get to the root cause of problems, and 3) Embrace the boring but profitable tasks. These steps will help you stay aligned with your business goals and avoid unnecessary complications. Tune in next week for some creative tips on interviewing and recruiting.00:00 Introduction and Content Overview00:39 Holiday Decorations and Business Insights02:22 Embracing Simplicity in Business03:44 Strategy 1: Avoid Being Oversubscribed05:26 Strategy 2: Identify the Root Cause06:56 Strategy 3: Embrace the Boring09:22 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

In this episode, we delve into four essential interview questions designed for the final round of our four-stage hiring process, specifically targeting virtual administrative, executive, and operations assistant roles. The goal is to assess soft skills, character traits, and personality beyond technical competencies. I explain the rationale behind each question and the insights they provide into a candidate’s ability to navigate client relationships, self-reflect, take initiative, and balance confidence with humility. If you're looking to hire an assistant without the hassle of interviewing, visit our website and book a call with us. Learn how to uncover the real potential of your next team member!00:00 Introduction to Interview Questions00:19 Understanding the Interview Process01:10 The Importance of Conversational Interviews01:41 Favorite Interview Questions04:22 Evaluating Initiative and Confidence07:30 Conclusion and Next Steps

In this episode, we tackle a common piece of advice given to business owners: 'Just hire an assistant.' While it sounds great on the surface, many find that hiring without a clear plan often leads to frustration and wasted resources. Learn why it's essential to understand your business functions and desired involvement before bringing an assistant on board. We share practical insights on how to define your role, identify tasks to delegate, and ensure a seamless integration of a virtual assistant. Need personalized help? Consider a delegation strategy session with us to streamline this process. Visit AUXOSVS.COM/BOOK to schedule a call.00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Common Advice on Hiring Assistants00:27 The Flaws in 'Just Hire an Assistant' Advice01:37 A Better Approach: Defining Your Role and Tasks01:54 Practical Steps for Effective Delegation02:40 Conclusion and Further Assistance

In this episode of Strategy Solutions, Sam explains the importance of delegation for business owners and consultants. By effectively delegating tasks, you can reduce chaos, improve processes, and free up mental space, allowing you to focus on creative and strategic thinking. Sam also offers resources and personalized strategies to help you begin the delegation process and reclaim your role as a confident, visionary CEO.00:00 Introduction: Seeing the Forest for the Trees00:15 Welcome to Strategy Solutions01:37 The Importance of Delegation02:47 Benefits of Delegation04:41 Getting Started with Delegation05:25 Conclusion: Book Your CallBook your call at auxosvs.com/book

In this episode, we delve into what it takes to trust someone enough to hire them as an assistant. We'll explore past discussions on delegation strategy and the essentials for onboarding an assistant. The focus will be on overcoming trust issues—fear of poor performance or exposing personal work details—and what to look for during the hiring process. Key points include establishing initial trust, solidifying it in the first two months by assessing competence and chemistry, and nurturing it through assigning more challenging tasks and observing proactive, adaptive behavior. Join us to learn how to confidently trust your assistant and effectively delegate tasks.00:00 Introduction: Trusting an Assistant00:07 Delegation Strategy and Hiring Essentials00:34 Overcoming the Trust Hang-Up01:09 Building Chemistry and Competence02:15 The Growth Journey to Trust03:38 Challenging Tasks and Proactive Support04:23 Adapting and Innovating for Success05:17 Conclusion: Flourishing Trust with Your Assistant

In this week's Quick Cast, we discuss how to create better clarity and ownership within your team. We'll tackle common issues like unclear job descriptions and undefined processes. Learn the simple, actionable steps to visualize your team's tasks and responsibilities using a process flowchart and swim lanes. This method helps you map out tasks, assign ownership, and ensure accountability. Perfect for small business owners and team leaders looking to improve efficiency and team dynamics.00:00 Introduction to Clarity and Ownership00:08 Identifying the Problem01:06 Creating a Process Flow Chart02:19 Using Swim Lanes for Clarity04:04 Assigning Ownership and Accountability04:48 Addressing Concerns and Encouraging Implementation06:10 Conclusion and Practical Steps

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity Today, we dive deep into the journey and insights of Adriana, an ER nurse turned public speaker and leadership coach. Adriana shares her evolution from a healthcare career to coaching, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, setting boundaries, and integrating personal passions into professional life. We discuss her unique events like Boundaries and Bubbly, the challenge of networking, and practical advice for maintaining work-life balance. Get inspired by Adriana's authentic approach to business growth and her commitment to meaningful connections.00:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome00:28 Adriana's Journey: From Nursing to Entrepreneurship01:37 The Evolution of Adriana's Coaching Career03:24 Balancing Nursing and Coaching04:31 The Art of Humor in Public Speaking06:16 The Importance of Feedback and Boundaries16:43 Integrating Fun and Work-Life Balance26:45 Networking Insights and Personal Boundaries27:40 Authenticity in Networking30:00 Balancing Work and Personal Life32:39 Challenges in Leadership and Entrepreneurship38:17 The Importance of Vulnerability49:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Feeling like every task in your business is heavier than it should be? You might not be burned out in the way people typically imagine — but for high achievers, burnout looks different. It shows up as procrastination, losing motivation, brushing off wins, or even resenting small parts of your business.In this QuickCast, I’m breaking down 5 subtle red flags that signal you’re starting to lose motivation in your business — and how to address them before burnout steals your creativity, vision, and momentum.👉 You’ll learn:The everyday frustrations that reveal deeper cracks in your businessWhy “just pushing through” actually stalls growthHow resentment and comparison creep in quietlyWhat to shift so you can get back to enjoying your role as CEOIf you’re starting to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or less excited by your business, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, host Samantha welcomes financial expert Megan Schwan. Megan shares her inspiring journey from being a teen mom to becoming a successful business owner. She discusses the importance of fostering a supportive culture, embracing calculated risks, and using the Profit First method to manage business finances effectively. Megan also highlights her personal experiences, including overcoming challenges like divorce and moving across the country, all while maintaining a growing business and raising four children. Tune in for valuable insights on resilience, business strategy, and financial empowerment.00:00 Introduction and Show Overview00:16 Meet Megan Schwan02:22 Megan's Journey: From Teen Mom to Business Owner05:20 Balancing Family and Business10:31 The Importance of Calculated Risks16:13 Trusting Intuition in Business20:41 The Drive Behind Determination22:15 Major Life Changes and Business Flexibility22:56 The Importance of Grit and Determination24:12 Navigating a Saturated Market30:36 The Concept of Profit First40:09 Implementing Profit First: A Personal Journey44:18 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

In this quickcast, we explore the two primary reasons clients seek consulting help: proactive preparation for growth and being overwhelmed by unsustainable workloads. The discussion emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries to avoid burnout and improve business operations. Key points include the necessity of recognizing and changing non-productive behaviors, understanding that hustling harder isn't the solution, and the benefits of maintaining healthy communication and respect with clients. The video also mentions a follow-up episode focusing on effective delegation to prevent becoming a bottleneck in the business.00:00 Introduction: The Two Camps of Clients00:55 Recognizing the Need for Change01:46 The Importance of Setting Boundaries02:38 Overcoming Fear and Ego03:17 Shifting to a CEO Mindset04:33 Building a Stronger Team and Processes05:53 Conclusion: Maintaining Sanity and Growth

Join us for an insightful episode of 'Strategy Solutions and Sanity' featuring Nikki, The Sales Maven! Nikki shares her fascinating journey from working in a male-dominated tech industry to becoming a renowned sales expert. Discover how she navigated her way using neurolinguistic programming (NLP) to enhance her communication skills and build meaningful client relationships. Learn actionable sales strategies, the importance of asking the right questions, and how to manage sales conversations effectively. Perfect for business owners and sales professionals looking to improve their sales tactics and build stronger client relationships. Don't miss Nikki's exclusive offer of a free training on sealing the deal with effective questions!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:59 Nikki's Journey to Becoming the Sales Maven02:31 Understanding Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)06:24 The Importance of Flexibility in Sales07:31 Building Relationships and Rapport in Sales20:19 The Selling Staircase Framework27:44 Rant on Referral Partners and Sales Process28:59 The Importance of Giving Price Ranges30:21 Personal Experience with a Sales Process32:56 The Value of Flexibility in Sales34:44 Using AI Note Takers for Sales Conversations36:19 Overcoming Shyness in Business40:13 Finding Inspiration from Others45:31 Adapting Coaching Styles to Client Needs52:39 The Power of Asking Questions in Sales55:01 Special Offer for Listeners-Free Gift: salesmaven.com/sanity

In this quick episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, Sam, a business and team strategist, outlines how delegating high-impact tasks to virtual assistants (VAs) who leverage AI can significantly enhance your sales process. The episode covers five strategies: filtering high-quality leads, providing follow-up support, preparing for sales calls, turning sales conversations into marketing content, and improving the client experience. These strategies aim to help business owners and small teams offload critical yet time-consuming tasks, ensuring they can focus on building relationships and driving sales growth. Sam emphasizes the importance of combining AI's efficiency with a VA's human judgment to maximize sales effectiveness.00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Wearing Too Many Hats00:15 The Power of Delegation: Leveraging Virtual Assistants00:55 Combining AI and VAs for Sales Success02:31 Five Strategies to Boost Sales with AI-Powered VAs02:36 Strategy 1: Filtering High-Quality Leads03:59 Strategy 2: Follow-Up Support to Avoid Dropping the Ball05:01 Strategy 3: Sales Prep for Sharp Client Interactions05:50 Strategy 4: Turning Sales Conversations into Marketing Content06:48 Strategy 5: Enhancing Client Experience for Repeat Business07:25 Conclusion: Elevate Your Sales Game with AI and VAs

Catch this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity as we dive into the messy and often overlooked aspects of growing a business. Our special guest, Sarah Gonnella from Full Sail Partners, shares her journey and insights into effective leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how embracing technology can simplify business processes. Sarah discusses practical strategies for building a collaborative and fun company culture while maintaining high standards of excellence. Learn how to reframe challenges, leverage AI for better efficiency, and the crucial steps for meaningful automation. Whether you're struggling with sales, trying to improve client satisfaction, or looking to enhance your leadership skills, this episode is packed with valuable advice and actionable insights.00:00 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:36 Introducing Our Guest: Sarah Gonnella01:20 Sarah's Professional Journey and Personal Insights02:57 Embracing Challenges and Personal Growth05:10 The Importance of Reflection and Self-Awareness07:05 Leadership Lessons and Overcoming Mistakes16:59 Navigating Sales and Embracing Vulnerability21:33 Balancing Logic and Emotional Intelligence27:23 The Role of KPIs and Unintended Consequences28:02 Balancing Utilization and Collaboration28:57 Setting Clear Goals and KPIs29:47 Learning from Mistakes in Management30:56 The Importance of Guardrails in Management36:09 Building a Fun and Productive Work Environment37:32 The Role of Branding in Business Success39:34 Effective Onboarding and Training49:44 Embracing AI and Automation

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, business strategist Sam Cordero Prestidge explains why open door policies often fail to achieve their intended purpose. Despite being a well-intentioned concept aimed at creating an accessible and supportive environment, these policies fall short because employees may hesitate to seek help due to a desire to appear competent. Sam highlights the importance of leaders actively reaching out to their team members to offer support, building trust, and ensuring that their employees feel seen and understood. She shares personal experiences to emphasize the need for proactive leadership and offers actionable strategies for fostering better communication and support within teams.00:00 Introduction to Open Door Policies00:25 The Concept and Its Shortcomings02:32 Real-World Examples and Challenges

In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, host Samantha speaks with the dynamic Jesse Hernandez about navigating the complexities of business, leadership, and personal development. Jesse shares his rich journey from starting as an apprentice in the construction industry to becoming a renowned consultant who emphasizes human-centric operational strategies. He provides insights into his approach to overcoming failure, optimizing work execution, and scaling improvements while keeping a focus on emotional intelligence and servant leadership. Discover how Jesse's adventurous, non-conformist approach—paired with a robust understanding of business metrics—helps him maintain sanity and achieve remarkable success in his ventures. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to balance ambition with human-centric leadership. Plus, don’t miss the exciting announcement about an upcoming workshop with both Samantha and Jesse on people-centered operations for managers!00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:36 Meet Jessie Hernandez00:46 Jessie's Career Journey02:29 Emotional Intelligence and People-Centered Leadership03:08 Challenges and Insights on Serving Others06:46 Scaling and Business Strategies12:06 Pricing Strategies and Client Engagement21:20 Execution and Experimentation in Business21:47 Personal Reflections and Non-Conformity24:22 Balancing Risks and Rewards25:10 Overcoming Personal Struggles25:38 Investing in Personal Growth27:33 The Importance of Context and Perspective28:21 Navigating Business Challenges29:25 The Value of a Good Assistant34:44 Challenging the Status Quo45:59 Experimenting and Evaluating48:47 Upcoming Workshop Announcement

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, business strategist Sam discusses the common pitfalls and solutions related to delegation in business. She emphasizes that true delegation should provide relief, freeing up both time and mental space. Sam identifies three warning signs indicating ineffective delegation and offers four key points to determine whether the problem lies with the assistant or the delegator. By addressing these issues, entrepreneurs can leverage their assistants more effectively, fostering a more strategic and productive work environment.00:00 Introduction to Effective Delegation01:19 Understanding the Relief of Delegation01:55 Warning Signs of Ineffective Delegation03:34 Is It a You Problem or a Them Problem?03:56 Four Signs of Delegation Issues04:42 Building Context and Setting Expectations06:07 Realistic Expectations for Delegation06:52 Conclusion and Self-Reflection

How do you lead when you feel like an outsider? What if your superpower isn’t technical skill, but the ability to bring people together?In this episode of Strategy, Solutions, & Sanity, I sit down with Jennifer Lacy—facilitator, coach, people collector, and culture builder in the construction industry. We talk about what it really takes to navigate resistance, lead change, and step into your value (even when you feel like an imposter).Jen shares what it was like coming into construction with zero technical background, how her roots in teaching made her a stronger facilitator, and why facilitation is an underrated leadership superpower. If you’ve ever felt overlooked, questioned your seat at the table, or struggled to engage the “hard-to-reach” people on your team—this one’s for you.What We Talk About:Why facilitation is one of the most underrated skills in leadershipHow Jen overcame imposter syndrome (even with 20+ years of experience!)What to do when team members resist changeHow to build a personal advisory board (and why it matters)The power of asking curious questions that shift the roomWhat “collisions” really mean—and how they shape your leadership legacyHow to show up fully without expecting anything in return

Feeling disorganized, overwhelmed, or like your team just isn't performing the way it should?In this AMA Quickcast, I’m breaking down the first thing I audit when a business owner comes to me feeling maxed out — whether they’re solo or leading a team of 50. This isn’t a full operational overhaul. It’s a laser-focused check on one critical issue: goal-task alignment.If you're constantly busy but not making real progress, this is where I’d start. Because more often than not, the problem isn’t a lack of effort — it’s misaligned execution.🎯 In this episode, I cover:The real definition of productive (and why “busy” isn’t it)What goal-task alignment looks like in practiceWhy this is the fastest way to identify performance gapsHow to run a mini audit on your own calendar, inbox, and task listWhat misalignment symptoms really point toWhether you’re the only one running the show or leading a growing team, this quickcast will help you start untangling the overwhelm and focus your energy on what actually moves the needle.📩 Got a question for a future AMA? Connect with me on LinkedIn: Samantha Cordero Prestidge Or email: [email protected]

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, host Sam shares her two essential rules and one habit for effective networking. She emphasizes the importance of mutual value and enjoying the company of networking partners to avoid burnout and ensure that time spent on networking is worthwhile. Sam also discusses how she organizes and categorizes her connections in HubSpot to keep her networking strategies practical, fun, and profitable. She encourages listeners to share their own networking strategies and offers to answer questions on business and team strategy.00:00 Introduction to Networking Strategies00:41 The Networking Burnout Experience01:50 Reassessing Networking Groups02:14 Rule #1: The Two-Way Street04:55 Rule #2: Enjoy the Conversation06:03 The Habit: Ranking Your Network07:16 Conclusion and Contact Information

Join us for an insightful episode of Lives with Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity as we welcome Colleen, a dynamic guest who blends wisdom and energy. We discuss everything from the importance of self-reflection and sticking to one's values, to the challenging moments of entrepreneurship and business leadership. Colleen shares her journey from attending an improv class to harnessing the positive aspects of being 'selfishly' productive. We dive deep into maintaining mental health at work, the importance of setting boundaries, the nuances of consultative sales, and strategies to avoid people-pleasing traps. This episode is packed with practical advice and personal stories to inspire and guide you in both business and life. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation!

Ever find yourself bending over backward to be the cool boss? The one everyone likes, who’s fun, flexible, and super approachable — only to watch accountability tank, trust slip, and your own confidence take a nosedive?In this quick cast, we’re breaking down the “Cool Boss Trap” — why it happens, how it drains your time and money, and the dead-simple step that gets you out of the pendulum swing between people-pleasing and micromanaging.You'll learn: ✅ How trying too hard to be liked quietly erodes your team’s performance ✅ The role of clear expectations in keeping things fun and high performing ✅ How to handle tough conversations without turning into a jerkIf you’ve been struggling with slipping standards, second-guessing your leadership, or just want to finally build a team that respects you and enjoys working with you, this one’s for you.

In this episode, we sit down with Paige, the CEO of Tree Ring Digital, an exceptional marketing agency based in Colorado. Paige shares insights into the messy and vulnerable side of business, discussing moments that drove her 'insane' and how she pivoted to better serve her clients. We explore the challenges of balancing client needs with strategic goals, the impact of AI on marketing, and the importance of relationship building. Paige also delves into the evolution of her company, from a solo operation to a team of 15, and the importance of proactive digital asset management. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on maintaining sanity in the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing.

Should Your Virtual Assistant Handle Your Content and Social Media? Find Out Here!In this episode, we tackle a common question: can a virtual assistant (VA) help with content and social media posts? The short answer is yes, but with conditions. We delve into the importance of distinguishing whether you need a strategist or an executor first. Clarity on your ideal customer, messaging, and content vision is crucial before involving a VA. We also share experiences and advice on why high-level strategy should come first and what roles VAs can effectively fill. Tune in to discover the best approach to optimizing your marketing efforts with the right support.00:00 Introduction: Can a VA Help with Content and Social Media?00:11 Determining Your Needs: Strategist or Executor?00:40 When a VA Can Execute Your Content Strategy01:06 The Importance of Clarity Before Execution01:25 Personal Experience: The Pitfalls of Skipping Strategy02:10 Deciding Between a Strategist and a VA02:48 Conclusion: Finding the Right Support for Your Team

In this episode of 'Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity,' host Sam dives deep into the revolutionary world of AI with business strategist and branding expert Stephanie Sidebottom. The discussion covers practical applications of AI for business owners, from gamifying sales activities to creating custom AI bots for branding. Stephanie shares her transition to a more aligned business approach, emphasizing the importance of making processes simple and fun. If you’re curious about integrating AI into your business and maintaining sanity in the process, this episode is a must-watch!00:00 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:42 Introducing Stephanie Sidebottom01:35 The Philosophy of Imperfect Action03:12 The Struggle with Perfectionism07:26 Finding Alignment in Business15:03 Embracing AI for Business Growth26:43 Using AI for Personal Tasks27:53 Exploring AI Platforms and Custom Bots30:48 Staying Updated with AI32:42 Balancing Learning and Avoiding Shiny Object Syndrome36:07 AI Tools and Software Recommendations42:30 Building Custom AI Solutions for Businesses50:00 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice

You’ve probably heard it before: “You need systems in your business.” But what is a system, really? In this quickcast, I’m breaking it down without the jargon. Whether you’re brand new to the idea or you’ve built a few workflows that still feel clunky, we’re walking through what a system actually is, why it matters, and how to keep it simple and scalable.If you’ve ever felt a little embarrassed to ask “what does that even mean?”—this one’s for you.🎯 Why systems aren’t just tech tools or SOPs 🧠 The key traits of a system that actually works 📈 How to build systems that grow with youLet’s ditch the overwhelm and make business easier—one simple system at a time.🎯 Want support finding and onboarding an assistant who actually makes your life easier? Head to auxosvs.com to learn more. 🗣 Got a question about hiring, delegation, or operations? Send an email to [email protected] with #AskSam in the subject line and I’ll tackle it in a future episode!

Welcome to the first live episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity! Join host Sam and her special guest, Bonnie, as they dive into strategies to lead your business with confidence and regain control over chaos. Bonnie, a seasoned executive assistant and now CEO, shares her journey from overcoming unrealistic client expectations to investing in herself. Learn how to set boundaries, the importance of being brave and open to opportunities, and the transformative power of networking and delegating. This episode is packed with insights on maintaining sanity in business, balancing personal and professional life, and continuously evolving as a leader. Don't miss out on these valuable lessons designed to help entrepreneurs thrive!00:00 Introduction to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:43 First Live Show and Special Guest Introduction02:09 The Importance of Vulnerability and Collaboration03:55 A Story of Lost Sanity in Business09:14 Setting Boundaries and Managing Expectations15:33 Investing in Yourself and Your Business24:54 Wearing a Suit and Zoom Calls25:09 Identifying and Overcoming Business Weaknesses25:52 Mastermind Groups and Sales Skills26:39 Delegating Tasks and Social Media29:39 Imposter Syndrome and CEO Role31:04 Embracing White Space and Personal Time35:19 New Ventures and Podcasting39:41 Writing Books and Overcoming Self-Doubt43:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Think you need a full playbook, polished SOPs, and perfect systems before you can hire an assistant? Think again.In this quick episode, I’m breaking down the real things you need in place before bringing someone into your business—hint: it’s less than you think. We’ll cover:The myth that keeps leaders stuck and overwhelmedWhat a “good enough” starting point looks likeWhy waiting until you're “ready” is just a fancy form of procrastinationWhether you’re drowning in admin work or just tired of doing everything yourself, this is your permission slip to move forward—even if it’s messy.🎯 Want support finding and onboarding an assistant who actually makes your life easier? Head to auxosvs.com to learn more.🗣 Got a question about hiring, delegation, or operations? Send an email to [email protected] with #AskSam in the subject line and I’ll tackle it in a future episode! 

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, host Sam guides small business owners and team leaders on how to regain control and confidence in their businesses using a strategic 90-day plan divided into three phases: Getting the Lay of the Land, Simplification, and Getting into a Growth Rhythm. Sam emphasizes the importance of clarity, simplifying processes, and fostering operational efficiency to turn things around. Listeners will learn how to achieve both short-term wins and long-term goals, transforming their roles and setting up their teams for sustainable success.00:00 Introduction: Taking Control of Your Business00:58 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity02:48 Phase 1: Getting the Lay of the Land07:35 Phase 2: Simplification12:16 Phase 3: Rhythm for Growth16:07 Conclusion and Next StepsFor help implementing this in your business, reach out to [email protected] 

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, host Sam delves into effective interview strategies essential for making sound hiring decisions. Discover the three key aspects to evaluate in candidates: character, competence, and culture fit. Learn to ask better questions that go beyond surface-level inquiries, and avoid common pitfalls that small team and family-run business managers often encounter. Sam also emphasizes the importance of entering the hiring process with a clear job description and setting expectations upfront. For more detailed insights and a hiring playbook, visit auxosvs.com/resource-hub00:00 Introduction to Effective Interviewing00:29 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity01:20 The Three Key Insights for Interviews02:09 The Importance of Clarity in Job Descriptions03:55 Evaluating Character, Competence, and Culture Fit04:32 Common Interview Mistakes to Avoid07:22 Crafting Better Interview Questions10:24 Identifying Red Flags and Green Flags13:19 Conclusion and Additional Resources

Don’t Just Delegate—Create OwnershipIn this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, host Sam discusses the importance of transferring ownership when delegating tasks to ensure accountability and responsibility within a team. She provides practical examples from both personal and professional settings to illustrate how speaking in terms of ownership can lead to better outcomes and more engaged team members. Sam explains how to phrase delegations in a way that encourages team members to take full responsibility for their tasks and outcomes. If you're struggling with team accountability, this episode offers actionable strategies to start implementing today.00:00 Introduction to Delegation and Ownership00:12 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:41 Speaking in Terms of Ownership01:15 Examples of Effective Delegation02:27 Accountability and Responsibility03:22 Encouraging Ownership in Your Team03:50 Conclusion and Contact Information

Why Scaling Just Multiplies Pain When You're Already In ChaosIn this episode of 'Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity,' Sam dives into the myth that scaling a business will solve existing chaos. Instead, scaling often amplifies existing issues, making them more expensive, exhausting, and messy. Through real-life anecdotes, Sam highlights the red flags that indicate a shaky business foundation and offers both quick wins and long-term strategies to manage and reduce chaos. Key areas discussed include creating clear roles in your team, simplifying processes, focusing on needle-moving tasks, and building around non-negotiable standards for client experience, personal engagement, and team culture.00:00 Introduction: Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:54 The Myth of Scaling: More Revenue, More Problems04:40 Identifying Red Flags in Your Business10:30 Quick Fixes for Immediate Relief16:04 Long-Term Strategies for Sustainable Growth20:31 Conclusion: Achieving Sustainable Growth

In this episode of Strategy Solutions and Sanity, business and team strategist Sam tackles the common challenge of being the bottleneck in your business. Sam outlines a clear, step-by-step delegation strategy to help small teams and family-run businesses identify tasks for delegation, create a job description for the business owner, and prioritize activities that can be passed on to others. By breaking down business functions into marketing and sales, service delivery, and cash management, Sam provides actionable insights for achieving clarity and efficiency, enabling you to build a supportive team that moves the needle forward. Tune in for this short, sharp dose of strategy designed to restore your sanity and keep chaos in check.00:00 Introduction: Overcoming the Bottleneck00:17 Welcome to Strategy Solutions and Sanity00:45 Step 1: Clarity Around Your Business Model01:46 Step 2: Highlight Your Involvements01:59 Step 3: Define Your CEO Role02:29 Compare and Contrast Tasks02:42 Delegation Strategy and Team Building03:08 Applicability Across Business Types03:27 Conclusion and Next Steps03:38 Connect and Subscribe

Stuck in Every Decision? Here’s Why Your Team Keeps Coming to You |  Strategy, Solutions, and SanityIn this episode of Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity, host Sam tackles a common issue faced by business owners—having to make every little decision in the team. Designed for second-time entrepreneurs and small family-run businesses, this video provides practical strategies to create a more autonomous team. Sam covers why team members might constantly seek your input, from creating a fear-based work environment to lacking clarity in expectations. Learn actionable steps to empower your team, delegate decision-making, and ultimately free yourself from daily micromanagement. Tune in for quick, no-nonsense tips to bring strategy, solutions, and, most importantly, sanity to your day.00:00 Introduction to Strategy, Solutions, and Sanity01:21 Understanding the Root Cause of Team Dependency02:07 Creating a Safe Environment for Mistakes04:28 Providing Clarity and Setting Expectations08:47 Empowering Your Team Through Coaching10:11 Conclusion and Key Takeaways