Change Champions

Newsletter for stories, tips and resources: leverageaccelerator.coCommunity to create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits: networkandsell.comWe just got accepted into a $30,000 coaching programme. And in this behind-the-scenes episode, we break down exactly why we made that decision.This isn’t about hype or “leveling up” for the sake of it. It’s about something more honest: we hit a point in our business where effort alone wasn’t enough to create consistent growth. We were solving problems… but new ones kept appearing.In this episode, we talk about:Why even experienced coaches still need coachingThe bottlenecks that kept us stuck between growth stagesWhat we hope to learn (especially around content, sales, and leverage)The tension between figuring it out yourself vs getting helpThe personal reasons behind the investment — time, family, and lifestyleWe also share the mindset shift that changed everything for us: being the kind of client we want to attract.If you’re a coach, consultant, or facilitator trying to grow your business without burning out — this will give you a clear, honest look at what it actually takes to move forward.Hosted by Riley and Ped, co-founders of Leverage Accelerator.Timestamps:00:00 Why we joined a $30,000 coaching programme00:40 Getting accepted and what Black Belt is01:57 Why we’re happy to share we’re getting help03:30 Growth mindset, learning, and serving clients better04:39 Why experience beats figuring it out alone06:10 The growth ceiling we kept hitting08:09 Why now was the right time to invest10:28 What we hope to learn from the programme13:17 The real content lesson we want to improve15:00 Adapting what we learn to our own audience16:29 Systems, positioning, and our unique strengths17:18 Letting go of insecurity around asking for help17:49 Pressure, integrity, and being a good client19:28 Relief, accountability, and shortening the learning cycle20:50 Did we wait too long to do this?22:26 The personal reasons behind the investment23:20 Why helping people has to come first24:45 Why we’re documenting this journey

If you’ve ever felt like you’re working harder than ever… but your business isn’t really moving forward, this video will likely hit close to home.In this video, Riley breaks down a counterintuitive truth: the effort that helps you start your business can quietly become the thing that keeps you stuck.He shares his own journey from launching his first program to hitting growth plateaus — and why doubling down on hard work didn’t fix it. Instead, the real shift came from changing how he made decisions.You’ll learn:Why effort has diminishing returns as you scaleHow “hard work” can become a flawed decision-making compassThe difference between a builder mindset and a director mindsetWhat to stop doing to create real leverage in your businessHow to make better decisions that actually move the needleThis isn’t about avoiding hard work. It’s about making sure your effort is going in the right direction.If you’re a coach, consultant, or service provider trying to grow without burning out, this will give you a clearer way forward.

Pricing and Designing Offers that sell themselves: https://youtu.be/ABLCmXKdLLEJoin newsletter for stories, tips, and resources:http://leverageaccelerator.co/Create more sales opportunities: Join Network & Sell:http://networkandsell.com/For years I taught other businesses how to understand their customers. Meanwhile, I had no idea how to make what I did relevant to people outside my existing network. I'd built a six-figure business. But almost every penny came from people who already knew me. The moment I tried to reach beyond that, nothing connected. It cost me the right projects, my confidence, and my peace of mind.The answer was sitting on my bookshelf the whole time.In this video, I walk you through the inside-out trap most coaches, consultants, and facilitators fall into, introduce the Transformation Spectrum as a way to map client pains and gains with far more precision, and share the Big Five Framework — a tool I developed to help you design offers from the outside in, so your ideal clients recognise your offer is for them before you've described a single thing you do.Here's what we cover:- Why leading with credentials and methodology works only with people who already know you- How the Transformation Spectrum maps the full range of pains and gains- The Big Five: Avatar, Problem, Pain, Outcome, and Aspiration- Why skipping the avatar makes the whole model fall apart- How I applied this to finally build positioning that resonates beyond my networkChapters:00:00 The Irony — Teaching Others What I Wasn't Doing Myself00:50 What the Inside-Out Approach Looks Like (and Why It Fails)02:20 Why Inside-Out Works With People Who Know You04:50 Why It Fails With Strangers — and What to Do Instead06:40 The Book That Changed How Ped Designs Offers07:50 Customer Segments: Jobs, Pains, and Gains09:10 Shifting from Inside-Out to Outside-In Thinking09:50 Introducing the Transformation Spectrum13:30 The Big Five Framework Explained14:20 Avatar: The Foundation of the Big Five15:30 Problem and Pain: Identifying What's Most Urgent15:40 Gains, Outcomes, and Aspiration17:10 The Most Common Traps When Using the Big Five18:40 Applying the Big Five to Ped's Own Business20:40 Top Tip: Don't Make It Up — Go and Ask

Newsletter for stories, tips and resources: leverageaccelerator.coCommunity to create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits: networkandsell.comIn this behind-the-scenes episode of the Change Champions podcast, Riley and Ped unpack their immediate reflections after a personal branding consultation and talk through what they’re changing in their content strategy.This conversation is for coaches, consultants, and facilitators who want to use content to support the business they’re building, without getting trapped on the content hamster wheel. Riley and Ped break down the three jobs content can do, where they’ve been inconsistent, what they learned about LinkedIn profile positioning, lead magnets, showing more proof, and how to turn real client conversations into stronger content.They also share a candid look at what they’ve done well, where they’ve missed the mark, and what they’ll do next as they build more authority, consistency, and inbound interest around Change Champions. Grounded, practical, and very much a work-in-progress conversation.Timestamps:00:00 Why we’re sharing this live00:40 How content has helped us win business02:40 The content hamster wheel and the business-building tension03:50 The 3 roles content plays as your business grows08:00 What stood out from the personal branding consultation12:50 What happens when someone lands on your profile14:40 Why Riley’s old positioning no longer fits LinkedIn19:10 Why we’re shifting from newsletter CTAs to lead magnets23:30 What we’ll change next in our content workflow24:10 Showing more proof instead of just telling25:50 Ped’s content cadence and content mix28:10 The goldmine of insights in client conversations29:50 Being of service through content

Newsletter for stories, tips and resources: leverageaccelerator.coCommunity to create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits: networkandsell.comWhat makes a presentation actually land?In this Change Champions podcast episode, Riley sits down with presentation coach Andrea Pacini to unpack the communication principles that make people care, remember, and act. Andrea shares why presentations are bigger than slides, why most people lose attention too soon, and why clear communication still matters even more in a world full of AI tools.They get into the difference between trends and timeless principles, how to make complex ideas easy to follow, why stories beat facts when you want people to remember something, and what makes a call to action strong without sounding pushy. Andrea also shares practical ideas on audience attention, slide design, delivery, and why communication gaps often sit underneath bigger business problems.Andrea Pacini is Head of Ideas on Stage UK, has worked with more than 500 TEDx speakers, and is the author of Confident Presenter, with his new book Timeless Presenter on the way. If you want your ideas to be clearer, more memorable, and more useful to the people you serve, this conversation is worth your time.Connect with Andrea:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apacini/Website: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/Presentation toolkit: https://bit.ly/TimelessPresenterKit Timestamps:00:00 Why presentation skills matter in business01:28 What a presentation really is04:24 You can have a great idea and still fail to land it06:20 Tools and trends vs timeless communication principles08:39 Why AI makes human communication more valuable11:36 How to make people care and keep attention13:00 The hourglass rule for audience attention16:37 How to make complex ideas simple20:49 Be kind to your audience24:14 Why analogies help people understand27:43 Why stories make ideas memorable30:00 The Finland story and starting with the audience33:33 How to make slides more memorable38:50 Beyond slides: creating a multi-sensory experience42:24 If you do not want action, do not give a presentation44:34 What makes a strong call to action49:08 Every presentation is a sales presentation50:54 Passion, purpose, and conviction56:41 Energy vs dynamism in delivery58:07 Can great speaking be learned01:02:00 Where to find Andrea01:03:00 The one idea to remember: communication deficiency

World events can absolutely affect your business.The real question is: how much should you care… and what can you actually do about it?In this behind-the-scenes conversation, Riley and Ped unpack how political events, economic uncertainty, and global conflicts can ripple into the day-to-day reality of running a coaching, consulting, or facilitation business.They share real examples from their own work including clients rescheduling calls due to geopolitical conflict, the emotional impact of following world events closely, and how global economic shifts can influence whether people invest in services like coaching or consulting.But the conversation goes deeper than headlines.Riley brings in lessons from performance psychology and stress management. Ped reflects on the tension between staying informed and protecting your mental bandwidth. Together they explore the balance between empathy for what’s happening in the world and focusing on the things you can still control in your business.If you’re a coach, consultant, or facilitator trying to build a sustainable business in uncertain times, this episode will help you think more clearly about where to place your attention, energy, and decisions.Chapters00:00 World events and your business00:50 A real example: a client evacuating their country02:40 Paying attention to the news vs tuning it out04:00 When world events affect you personally05:00 The emotional “storm” people get caught in06:30 Showing up to work when your head isn’t clear08:20 The economic knock-on effects of global events10:00 Performance psychology and the four A’s of stress management12:40 The difference between real self-care and avoidance14:00 When survival comes before business16:40 How macroeconomics affects coaching and consulting businesses19:00 Why people still buy during economic downturns21:00 COVID and adapting your business model22:00 Climate vs weather: knowing when to pivot23:30 Getting perspective outside your business bubble26:00 What you can actually control in your business28:00 Ped’s honest reflection on family in conflict zones30:00 Riley’s performance mindset for handling pressure33:00 Acting based on your values and priorities

Most solopreneurs think growth comes from reaching more people. In my experience, that’s usually not the real problem.In this video, I break down the three-part Authentic Outreach Framework that helped me build a six-figure business without a big audience. I share the shift that changed everything for me, why relationships create more reliable opportunities than visibility alone, and how to move from conversation to trust to real business opportunities without sounding forced or transactional.I also walk through the three phases of the framework:This is for coaches, consultants, facilitators, and other service-based solopreneurs who want a more grounded way to create introductions, collaborations, referrals, and clients.If you’ve been posting consistently but still feel unsure where your next opportunity is coming from, this will help you think about growth differently.Timestamps:00:00 Five-figure months with 300 followers00:10 The framework behind relationship-first growth00:20 The real challenge when you go solo00:40 Why “build a bigger audience” is incomplete advice01:20 Why better relationships matter more than more reach02:10 Relationships are the engine, not the audience02:30 The Authentic Outreach Framework02:50 Phase 1: Intro04:10 Phase 2: Interest05:30 The missing layer: the right relationships06:50 Phase 3: Invite07:20 How to spot a real entry point08:10 Real examples of authentic outreach09:20 How conversations become opportunities10:00 The core takeaway for solopreneurs10:40 Next video and Niche Navigator worksheet

Shiny object syndrome and constant experimentation can quietly drain your business.In this behind the scenes episode of the Change Champions podcast, Riley and Ped get honest about a mistake they’ve recently made: pulling time away from the very business development system that built their six-figure businesses… in order to experiment with new marketing strategies.They break down:The three core ways to get clients (and where most coaches go wrong)The difference between investing and sabotaging your own momentumThe hidden opportunity cost of switching strategies too earlyWhy “more, better, new” is a useful order for growthWhat they’ve done to course correctThis isn’t a “don’t try new things” conversation.It’s a grounded look at when to double down, when to experiment, and how to avoid eating into your own runway while chasing scale.If you’re a coach, consultant, or facilitator trying to grow without burning cash, energy, or focus — this one’s for you.Timestamps:00:00 The danger of shiny object syndrome00:02 The 3 core ways to get clients00:06 Why we started experimenting00:08 The real cost of change (opportunity cost)00:12 Investment vs self-sabotage00:14 More. Better. New.00:17 Where we dropped the ball00:19 The emotional cost of task switching00:20 How we course corrected00:24 The unsexy truth about business growth

Most coaches and consultants don’t struggle because they lack skill, discipline, or intelligence. They struggle because they start in the wrong place.In this video, Riley breaks down the three common traps that keep experienced professionals busy but stuck: the creator trap, the scaling trap, and the perfectionist trap. Each one feels productive. Each one looks responsible. And each one quietly delays the only thing that creates real clarity.You’ll learn about the Impact Matrix, a simple framework for understanding impact and income, why visibility without validation leads to frustration, why systems don’t create demand, and why refining in private often protects you from the truth instead of helping you grow.This is a grounded, operator-level breakdown for coaches, consultants, and facilitators who want to stop spinning their wheels and start building momentum without hype, pressure, or performative marketing.If you want stories, insights, and practical resources like this each week, join the newsletter at https://leverageaccelerator.co/If you want a community designed to help you create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits, check out http://networkandsell.com/Timestamps:00:00 Why smart coaches stay busy but stuck00:18 The creator trap: visibility before validation01:41 The impact matrix explained02:24 Why most advice is right, just out of order03:46 The scaling trap: structure without demand05:16 Why you can’t systemize your way out of not selling06:07 The perfectionist trap: refining instead of testing07:21 Why pricing and pitching create clarity08:11 The sales quadrant: where clarity actually comes from09:06 Why sales first is responsible, not aggressive10:31 How to build signal before scale11:44 Sales is how you build the business12:14 What to do if you’ve been stuck

In this behind-the-scenes episode of the Change Champions podcast, Riley and Ped unpack the consultative sales process we use inside our own business — and teach inside Network & Sell and Leverage Accelerator.This conversation was sparked by a graduating client who said our sales process was one of the most valuable parts of working with us.Not because it was flashy.Not because it was aggressive.But because it gave her clarity.We break down:Why “pitch first” is usually the wrong moveWhat we mean by value, value, pitchHow discovery conversations can build trust instead of pressureWhy great sales calls feel collaborative — not coerciveHow to guide decision-making without being pushyIf you’re a coach, consultant, trainer, or facilitator who wants to sell your services in a way that feels aligned with your values — this episode will give you a practical structure you can start using right away.Newsletter for stories, tips and resources: leverageaccelerator.coCommunity to create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits: networkandsell.comTimestamps:00:00 Why we’re talking about sales behind the scenes01:10 A client’s surprising biggest takeaway03:20 What “consultative sales” really means03:50 Value, value, pitch — the 3-part structure06:00 Why pitching too early backfires06:40 The first value: discovery that actually helps10:00 The emotional layer most people skip11:50 The second value: sharing your expertise15:10 Why clients often ask about working together16:40 Decision-making vs being “sold to”19:30 The weight of making decisions as a business owner20:30 Why some people love being sold to21:00 Being transparent about what the call is22:10 Funnels, pipelines, and rapport23:00 Dividing the 9-step process across calls24:00 Leaving calls with goodwill — client or not25:00 Sales as an act of service

Many experienced leaders leave corporate roles expecting their experience to translate naturally into a successful coaching or consulting business.But something strange often happens.They stay busy… yet struggle to become truly in demand.In this video, Riley McGhee explains why experienced coaches, consultants, and founders can quietly drift into irrelevance after leaving corporate leadership roles. Inside an organization, authority is often borrowed from titles, teams, and structures. Outside of it, authority must be intentionally constructed.Riley shares the hidden “identity gap” many leaders face when they step into entrepreneurship, why effort alone rarely fixes the problem, and the three structural shifts that help experienced professionals turn their expertise into sustainable demand.You’ll learn:If you're a coach, consultant, or founder who left corporate to build something meaningful, this conversation will help you rethink how authority and demand actually work outside an organization.Timestamps:00:00 Why experienced coaches become replaceable00:30 Leaving corporate isn’t the hard part01:06 The identity gap after leaving leadership roles01:39 Authority inside vs outside an organization02:05 Why entrepreneurship feels heavier than expected02:43 The emotional reality of early business volatility03:15 Freedom from work vs freedom to create03:50 Why freedom without structure leads to drift04:27 How coaches accidentally make themselves replaceable05:31 The real problem isn’t credibility06:05 Why working harder doesn’t solve it06:45 The structure that fixes drifting businesses06:50 Package your expertise around outcomes07:15 Build a repeatable opportunity engine07:50 Design collaborative sales conversations08:15 What happens when these three pieces align08:30 Choosing to steer your own story

Most coaches eventually hit the same wall.Referrals slow down.Word of mouth dries up.And the quiet pressure to “post more content” starts creeping in.In this episode, Riley explains why posting more rarely fixes the real problem and what actually creates a steady flow of clients.You’ll learn why outbound conversations trigger inbound demand, how to identify the people most likely to become clients, and the simple system that stops warm opportunities from slipping through the cracks.This is a practical breakdown of how coaches, consultants, and facilitators can build a predictable client pipeline without becoming content machines or relying on luck.If you’ve ever wondered where your next client is coming from, this episode will change how you think about visibility, outreach, and momentum.Newsletter for stories, tips and resources:leverageaccelerator.coCommunity to create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits:networkandsell.comTimestamps:00:00 – Why posting more content doesn’t create clients00:20 – How outbound actually creates inbound00:30 – Real client examples of outbound triggering momentum01:30 – The real question most coaches avoid asking02:10 – Why building the right list matters more than visibility03:10 – The Three Bs framework explained04:30 – Before, Beside, and Behind: who belongs on your list06:00 – The biggest mistake coaches make with their network07:00 – Why outbound stops feeling awkward when the list is right07:20 – Where your warmest prospects are hiding08:30 – The four layers of your existing network10:50 – How to spot real opportunities inside your relationships11:40 – Why systems matter more than motivation12:00 – What a CRM actually does for your pipeline13:20 – Why trying to remember everything costs you clients14:20 – The three benefits of tracking your pipeline16:00 – Your next step for building a predictable pipeline

Most business partnerships don’t fail because of skill or ambition.They fail because of the conversations that never happened.In this behind the scenes episode of Change Champions, Riley and Ped share how they went from a client relationship to a deliberate, values-led business partnership. And why they spent months designing it before committing to anything.We talk openly about:How we tested whether a partnership even made senseThe uncomfortable topics most partners avoid until it’s too lateWhy clarity on roles, money, conflict, and exits matters more than chemistryThe real pros and cons of building a business with someone elseHow trust, accountability, and shared decision-making actually get builtIf you’ve ever considered a business partner — or wondered whether going it alone is really the best option — this episode gives you a grounded look at what partnership looks like when it’s designed intentionally, not rushed.For weekly stories, tips, and resources on how to grow you coaching or consulting business delivered straight to your inbox, join the newsletter at leverageaccelerator.coTo learn relationship-first business development habits and create more sales opportunities without feeling salesy, join the community at networkandsell.com

In this behind-the-scenes episode of Change Champions, we share what we’ve been working on inside the business over the past few months. And what it’s really taken to do it well.We talk openly about three things we’ve just gone through for the first time together: running a fully funded scholarship and live event, launching our first long-term partnership pilot, and carefully expanding the team using people from within our own ecosystem.This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a practical look at the time, focus, emotional weight, and trade-offs that come with building something sustainable. Especially if you care about values, relationships, and doing work you actually enjoy.If you’re a coach, consultant, or facilitator trying to grow without turning your business into something you don’t recognise, this episode will resonate.For stories, tips, and resources we don’t share anywhere else, subscribe to the newsletter:leverageaccelerator.coTo explore relationship-first business development and see the roadmap we referenced in the episode, join the community here:networkandsell.comTimestamps:00:00 Why we’re sharing the behind-the-scenes, not just outcomes01:25 The fully funded scholarship and why it mattered personally03:55 Paying it forward and the emotional weight of offering support04:30 Designing the live giveaway event to serve everyone, not just the winner05:35 What it actually takes to plan, promote, and run a live event06:10 Attendance, prep work, and what surprised us07:40 The real time cost behind “one simple idea”09:00 Focus, momentum, and why unfinished projects quietly fail11:10 Shifting from solo growth to partnership thinking12:20 How our first long-term partnership came together14:05 Mission, values, and why alignment matters more than speed16:00 Abundance vs scarcity in entrepreneurship17:30 Building an ecosystem where everyone benefits19:40 Turning lived experience into teachable systems20:30 Expanding the team without building an empire23:00 Hiring from within the community and why it works25:10 Staying hands-on while still growing27:00 Sustainable growth vs performative success30:20 Freedom, autonomy, and choosing your own version of “enough”32:40 Final reflections and where to explore next

In this behind-the-scenes coffee hour, Riley and Ped unpack what’s really happening inside the business right now.They talk openly about experimenting with a new giveaway, living with mistakes and typos, and why clarity in business rarely comes from thinking harder. It comes from doing, noticing, and adjusting.This episode is for coaches, consultants, and facilitators who feel stuck trying to “figure it out” before taking action — and who want a more honest, human path to building momentum.You’ll hear why imperfection isn’t a liability, how real clarity emerges through experimentation, and what they’re learning as they test new ideas inside the Leverage Accelerator ecosystem.Newsletter for stories, tips and resources: [leverageaccelerator.co](http://leverageaccelerator.co/)Community to create more sales opportunities using relationship-first business development habits: [networkandsell.com](http://networkandsell.com/)Timestamps:00:00 – A very human mistake and why it matters less than you think02:00 – Building a giveaway as an experiment, not a tactic04:20 – Typos, credibility, and showing you didn’t outsource your voice09:30 – Wabi-sabi, broken mugs, and the beauty of imperfection12:10 – Why experiments are the real path to business clarity17:10 – Designing incentives that reward relationships, not hype20:10 – Clean shoes, messy paths, and how progress actually happens24:20 – Why clarity only comes after you talk to real people26:20 – Action, redesign, repeat: how we actually find our way

In this episode of Change Champions, we spotlight Carolina Poll, a Strategic Digital Product Designer who partners with early-stage SaaS founders to turn complex product ideas into intuitive, user-centered experiences. With over 17 years of experience across branding, UX, and product leadership—including leading teams of 25+ designers—Carolina shares how design goes far beyond visuals. She unpacks how startups can avoid costly missteps by aligning their product strategy with real user needs. Whether you're a coach supporting founders or a consultant building your own productized offer, this conversation is packed with insights on how design thinking drives traction, clarity, and growth.

If you’ve been posting consistently but your calendar still isn’t filling up, the issue probably isn’t your content. In this episode, Riley and Ped explain why visibility alone does not create clients. Conversations do.Drawing from over 30 years of combined experience building service based businesses and helping more than 100 coaches and consultants do the same, they break down the real difference between lead generation and lead nurture. You will hear why inbound strategies like content and referrals often stall, how outbound fits into a healthy pipeline, and what it actually takes to build a dream client list that converts into real opportunities.This conversation cuts through common myths about algorithms, virality, and personal branding, and replaces them with a practical, human approach to finding warm, high intent leads without cold DMs, funnels, or paid ads.In this episode you will learn:Why posting great content does not automatically lead to clientsThe critical difference between lead generation and lead nurtureHow outbound connection supports inbound strategiesWho should be on your dream client list and why most coaches target the wrong peopleHow simple systems like a CRM stop warm leads from falling through the cracksIf you feel like you are doing everything right online but still not seeing traction, this episode will help you rethink where your effort goes and how to turn connection into consistent business growth.Timestamps:0:00 – Content Is Not the Problem1:11 – Content vs Conversations2:06 – Lead Generation vs Lead Nurture3:01 – Visibility vs Opportunity4:17 – Building a Business, Not a Brand6:28 – Why Outbound Matters7:28 – Who You Should Be Talking To8:14 – The 3Bs Framework9:29 – Why Most Coaches Target the Wrong People12:52 – Where to Find Ideal Clients14:22 – The Follow-Up Problem15:31 – Why Coaches Lose Warm Leads17:15 – Using a CRM as a Care System20:17 – Follow-Up Builds Trust23:30 – Taking Control of Your Pipeline24:12 – Final Takeaway

We’re sharing why we’ve changed the format of the Change Champions podcast, what we’re working on right now, and how we’re thinking about content, partnerships, and generosity-led growth as we head into a new year.You’ll hear us talk candidly about:Why business can feel hard even when the advice is simpleWhat “building in public” actually looks like for usHow content supports relationships, credibility, and conversationsWhy we’re experimenting with giveaways and value-first marketingWhat we’re learning by codifying our content system with real clientsThis isn’t a teaching episode or a polished framework. It’s an honest conversation about how we’re thinking, testing, and learning in real time.If you’re a coach, consultant, or facilitator who wants to grow without becoming salesy, this episode will give you a clearer look at how we approach the work behind the work.Timestamp00:00 – Why we’re changing the podcast format01:30 – The idea behind “coffee hour” conversations04:00 – Why clients ask about our partnership and decisions06:00 – Business stress, control, and chosen challenges10:30 – Building in public and sharing what we’re working on13:00 – How content fits into our real business strategy17:00 – Why we’re codifying our content system22:00 – The three ways content actually supports growth28:00 – Why we’re experimenting with a giveaway31:00 – Generosity, perception, and staying aligned with our valuesChapters / Timestamps

Many coaches, consultants, and facilitators leave corporate life chasing freedom and flexibility only to find themselves undercharging, overdelivering, and constantly overwhelmed. In this episode, Riley and Ped unpack what they call the three Christmas ghosts quietly haunting service based businesses: clients past, present, and future.Through real stories from their own careers and the work they’ve done with over 100 coaches and consultants, they reveal how people-pleasing, saying yes to everything, and avoiding commitment slowly turn flexibility into chaos. This isn’t about blaming clients. It’s about recognizing the habits and mindsets that keep businesses stuck in feast-and-famine cycles.By reframing flexibility, commitment, and focus, they show how true freedom is built intentionally through structure, boundaries, and clearer decisions, not by doing more for less.In this episode you will learn:Why overdelivering often leads directly to undercharging and how to stop doing bothHow saying yes to everyone quietly drains your energy, focus, and pipelineThe hidden cost of flexibility when it turns into constant context switchingWhy avoiding commitment keeps your business fragile instead of freeHow narrowing focus and building structure creates real leverage and long-term stabilityIf your business feels busy but unstable, flexible but exhausting, this episode will help you identify which “ghost” is running the show and how to finally break the cycle.Timestamps:0:00 – The Three Christmas Ghosts0:40 – Ghost of Clients Past2:59 – Overdelivering and Undercharging5:43 – Ghost of Clients Present7:56 – The Flexibility Trap11:59 – Ghost of Clients Future13:06 – Niching and Commitment17:47 – Fear of Missing Out20:22 – Narrowing Focus Creates Leverage22:26 – The Real Meaning of Freedom22:49 – Final Takeaway

Most solopreneurs believe ads will finally give them the traction they’ve been missing. But as Riley and Ped reveal in this episode, ads don’t fix foundational problems. They multiply them. Before you spend a dollar on paid traffic, you need something far more powerful: real conversations with real people.Drawing from decades of experience and tens of thousands of dollars spent testing ads, they break down why ads are often the fastest way to lose money early on, and why authentic outreach consistently outperforms paid campaigns for coaches, consultants, and facilitators. You’ll learn a simple outreach framework, how to make it feel natural instead of salesy, and why relationship-first business development remains the most reliable way to build traction at any stage.In this episode you will learn:Why ads multiply mistakes instead of fixing them — and when they actually make senseA three-step outreach system (Intro, Interest, Invite) that generates traction quicklyHow to have authentic, human conversations that lead to real opportunitiesWhy talking to 10 real people gives you better data than $10,000 in ad spendHow outreach becomes sustainable when curiosity, not pressure, drives the conversationIf you're building a service-based business and want predictable clients without burning cash on ads, this episode gives you the starting point most people skip — and the one that makes everything else work.Timestamps:0:00 – Why Ads Fail Solopreneurs1:18 – Real Conversations vs. Ad Spend2:26 – Why Outreach Works Better3:39 – The Outreach Framework5:11 – Authentic vs. Cold Outreach6:48 – Client Results from Outreach7:56 – Step 1: Intro9:05 – Step 2: Interest13:21 – Step 3: Invite15:03 – Making Outreach Feel Natural24:39 – Consistency and Daily Rhythm27:06 – Why You Don’t Need Ads Yet

When you first went solo, you probably thought it would mean more freedom. But somewhere along the way, “being your own boss” started to feel more like working harder for less — lurching from one big project to the next, stuck in that feast-and-famine cycle, and trying to be everything to everyone just to keep the pipeline alive.In this episode of Change Champions, Ped and Riley unpack what they call the freedom paradox: the belief that keeping your options open is what keeps you free, when in reality it’s often what keeps you stuck. Drawing on decades of experience building coaching and consulting businesses, they break down why resisting a niche dulls your “axe” and how choosing a lane can actually become the fastest route to creative and financial freedom.In this episode you will learn:Why “I don’t want to box myself in” leads to burnout and the feast-and-famine cycleHow the fear of missing out on opportunities keeps you stuck as a generalistThe simple psychology behind why people need a clear label for you to refer youA real example of a generalist who narrowed her niche and unlocked a referral flywheelHow treating your own business as your best client creates true creative and financial freedomIf this conversation hits home and you’re tired of swinging a dull axe in every direction, make sure you’re on the newsletter. That’s where Ped and Riley go deeper into stories, systems, and tools to help coaches and consultants build focused, relationship-driven businesses with more leverage and less hustle.Learn more and join the newsletter: leverageaccelerator.coTimestamps:0:00 – The Freedom Paradox0:28 – Keeping Options Open1:05 – Early Solopreneur Struggles2:16 – Serving Everyone3:41 – Fear of Niching Down5:14 – Sharpen Your Focus6:35 – Faulty Beliefs8:04 – Why Labels Matter9:55 – Feast-and-Famine11:45 – Signs You Haven’t Chosen a Lane12:59 – Past Success vs. Strategy14:33 – Niche Example16:18 – When Clarity Opens Doors17:46 – Letting Others Define You19:19 – Creativity After Niching21:00 – Compounding Focus22:08 – Building Leverage24:40 – Less Effort, Better Results26:06 – Final Takeaway#BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #CoachingLife

In this episode, Ped and Riley tackle the real reason so many great coaches and consultants struggle with marketing: it’s not a strategy problem, it’s a language problem. Through personal stories and client experiences, they unpack how to move from “invisible” to “understood” by seeing your business through your clients’ eyes. From mirror moments to “flashlight vs. headlight” marketing, they show why clarity and conversation always beat volume and vanity.

In this episode, Ped and Riley tackle one of the biggest time-wasters for coaches and consultants — friendly conversations that never convert. They share the five simple yet powerful questions that transform casual chats into meaningful, client-building conversations. Through real examples and insights from their own experience, they show how to shift from “relationship building” to structured, intentional dialogue that deepens trust and drives business growth.

In this episode of Change Champions, Riley and Pedram take on one of the most misunderstood skills in business: sales. They dismantle the myths that keep coaches, consultants, and service professionals stuck—like the idea that sales is only for pushy extroverts or manipulative personalities. Instead, they reveal how sales, when reframed as service, becomes the key to confidence, control, and career freedom. With stories from their own journeys and practical shifts anyone can make, Ped and Riley show that learning to sell is less about slick pitches and more about creating real options in your work and life.

In this episode of Change Champions, Riley and Pedram take on one of the most misunderstood skills in business: sales. They dismantle the myths that keep coaches, consultants, and service professionals stuck—like the idea that sales is only for pushy extroverts or manipulative personalities. Instead, they reveal how sales, when reframed as service, becomes the key to confidence, control, and career freedom. With stories from their own journeys and practical shifts anyone can make, Ped and Riley show that learning to sell is less about slick pitches and more about creating real options in your work and life.

Ped and Riley tackle the lie that keeps many coaches broke: thinking the fix is to work harder, shout louder, or charge less. They show how “curse of knowledge” and feature-heavy proposals create admiration without commitment, then walk through a four-part offer that clients can instantly say yes to. Ped shares how reframing a program from modules to outcomes turned a struggler into a premium offer without changing the actual delivery. You’ll leave with a simple structure to shape your brilliance into something clients understand—and buy.

Ped and Riley puncture the industry lie that the “perfect offer” attracts clients on its own. Ped shares how a six-month drought in 2019 humbled him into building a real pipeline instead of waiting on referrals. Riley walks through why common “fixes” (new branding, funnels, paid ads, mass outreach) either don’t fit most solo businesses or demand resources they don’t have—and offers a simpler path: have strategic conversations that surface real demand, then track it. The result is confidence, consistency, and control over your income.

In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley pull back the curtain on why even great offers often get ignored—and what to do about it. They unpack the silent conversion killer that causes discovery calls to go nowhere: a lack of relevance in your message. If your audience is still wondering, "Is this for me?"—you've already lost the sale. Using relatable stories, sharp metaphors, and their Big Five Framework, Ped and Riley show you how to make your messaging land with clarity, urgency, and emotional connection. You’ll learn how to answer the three unspoken questions every client is asking: Is this for me? What do I get? And why does it matter? Whether you're a coach, consultant, trainer, or facilitator, this episode will help you shift from being scrolled past to being sought out.Are you a coach or consultant?Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly tips, strategies, and resources to start, grow, and systemise your coaching or consulting business. https://leverageaccelerator.co/

In this energizing episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley expose “the content trap” — the frustrating cycle of publishing value-packed posts that still fail to convert into paying clients. Drawing on Ped’s own months of “performing to an invisible audience” and Riley’s lighthouse metaphor, they explain why visibility alone isn’t enough. Instead, content should act as kindling that sparks authentic outreach, the real driver of trust and sales conversations. Listeners hear how one client’s responses jumped 6-7× once he paired posts with personal messages. The duo break down the trap, the mindset that feeds it, and the simple shift that turns silent scrolling into a steady pipeline of coaching and consulting prospects.

In this episode of Change Champions, Ped and Riley unpack a painful but common experience for coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators: delivering a high-energy, well-received workshop… that doesn’t lead to more business. Ped shares a candid story of a dazzling session with a Big Five firm that never resulted in a callback—and why. Together, they explore the trap of relying on entertainment and engagement without designing for outcomes and ROI. You’ll learn the six core building blocks of any workshop that can turn your facilitation from “fun day out” into “strategic asset”—and get clients rebooking you again and again. Whether you run sessions in boardrooms or the woods, this episode reveals how to shift from being remembered to being rebooked.

In this Change Champions episode, co-hosts Ped and Riley bust the “follow your passion and the clients will come” myth that keeps many coaches, consultants, trainers and facilitators stuck. Through Riley’s $63k leap that came from simply asking better questions and Ped’s hard-won lesson that more certifications don’t equal more sales, they show why enthusiasm alone is a megaphone that repels the middle-80 % of buyers. The duo lay out a mirror-first approach—listen before you pitch, translate expertise into specific, measurable outcomes and chase relevance, not generic visibility—so your offers practically sell themselves. Expect practical mindset flips you can apply today to build a sustainable, client-centered business.

In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley unpack a hard truth that many self-employed coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators know all too well: you might have fired your boss, but somehow ended up working for an even worse one—yourself. Drawing from Ped’s eye-opening story of taking 3 a.m. client calls from a San Francisco basement, the duo explores how being “technically self-employed” often still means being overworked and under-leveraged. They discuss why staying stuck in freelancer mode keeps you trapped, and how shifting from “being the business” to building a business requires mindset shifts, asset creation, and strategic design. With real client examples and relatable insights, this episode helps you move from burnout to building a business that actually sets you free.

In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley dig into a counterintuitive truth: it’s not your skills that are keeping you stuck—it’s trying to do too much. They explore how “abundance thinking” can disguise a fear of commitment, leading smart coaches and consultants to stay broad, overwhelmed, and burned out. Through personal stories, client examples, and sharp metaphors (from closets to buffets), they show why narrowing your niche doesn’t limit you—it liberates you. If you're tired of doing everything for everyone and still not gaining traction, this episode is a must-listen.

In Episode 19 of the Change Champions podcast, co-hosts Ped and Riley tackle a feeling familiar to many coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators: why does selling feel so gross—even when you're doing all the “right” things? Drawing from their own journeys and client stories (like Lori, who went from "doing fine" to fully booked two quarters ahead), they explore why traditional sales strategies often feel out of sync with purpose-driven professionals. The episode introduces the concept of “insider selling”—a trust-first approach that replaces pitch-slapping with genuine, value-led conversations. You’ll learn how to stop guessing what your market wants, avoid the “curse of knowledge,” and shift from giving value blindly to building relationships that lead to sales without pressure. If sales feels off for you, you’re not broken—the system you’ve been taught might be.

In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley dive deep into the critical but often overlooked moment between a client’s verbal “yes” and the actual payment — the gap where too many deals quietly fall apart. Drawing from Ped’s hard-won lessons as a learning and development consultant and Riley’s expertise as a COO and systems builder, they unpack why the problem isn’t in your sales call but in your onboarding process. They share personal stories, client mishaps, and actionable strategies to help coaches, consultants, trainers, and facilitators close that gap with clarity, confidence, and systems that speed up cash flow, improve retention, and boost referrals.

In this episode of Change Champions, co-hosts Ped and Riley pull back the curtain on a quiet crisis facing many experienced coaches and consultants. The moment when referrals dry up, and the usual tactics stop working. They unpack why relying on your old network can keep you stuck, how the “Curse of Knowledge” sabotages your messaging, and why real conversations—not funnels—are the key to building a high-ticket offer that practically sells itself. If you’ve ever felt like your expertise isn’t translating into consistent sales, this episode will help you reframe your next move and reignite momentum.

In this inaugural reformat of the Change Champions podcast, co-hosts Ped and Riley dive deep into a conversation that every coach and consultant needs to hear: how to sell without feeling salesy. If you’ve ever hit "publish" on a post and crossed your fingers for leads—or avoided outreach because it felt awkward—this episode is your permission slip to rethink everything. Ped and Riley unpack why traditional outreach feels gross, what to do instead, and how a mindset of service (not sales) leads to real opportunities. Plus, they share behind-the-scenes stories from their own journeys and client wins that prove this approach works. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale, this episode will help you plant the seeds for a sustainable, trust-led business.

In this episode of Change Champions, we sit down with Anne Shields, a liberal arts life design coach who specializes in helping the “lost and confused” find meaningful direction. With a background in higher education and years of experience training coaches, Anne brings a unique perspective on what it really takes to build a sustainable coaching business—especially for those who resist the traditional marketing playbook. Together with co-hosts Riley and Ped, Anne unpacks the tension between pure coaching, mentoring, and business-building, offering grounded insights on niching, visibility, and why saying “I just want to help people” isn’t enough to succeed. Whether you're credentialed or not, this episode challenges you to rethink how you serve—and how you show up.

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the often-overlooked mindset shifts that are crucial for coaches and consultants to build a thriving business. Our guest, Erika Fay, an Elite Athlete Fulfillment Coach, shares her journey from therapist to entrepreneur, revealing the internal battles she faced along the way. Erika unpacks how overcoming limiting beliefs, embracing micro-moments of success, and building intentional daily practices transformed her ability to maintain a steady stream of clients. Whether you're struggling with self-doubt or feeling overwhelmed by your business journey, Erika’s insights offer practical steps to build calm confidence and lasting success.

In this episode of Change Champions, we sit down with executive leadership coach and strategist Andy Conigliario to explore what it really means to live and lead on purpose. Andy shares his powerful story of walking away from a high-paying executive role—not to chase another title, but to rediscover meaning, health, and fulfillment. From the pivotal moment that forced him to question his definition of success, to the quiet clarity that emerged in the aftermath, Andy reveals how discomfort, failure, and deep self-awareness became the building blocks of a purpose-driven coaching practice. Whether you're standing at your own career crossroads or guiding others through theirs, this conversation is packed with the kind of insight that hits home and lingers long after.

n this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the world of transformational coaching—going beyond surface-level problem-solving to uncover the deeper shifts that lead to real change. Our guest, Amanda Deitch, is a transformational coach and facilitator who helps individuals align their values, actions, and mindset for greater clarity and success. With a rich background spanning entrepreneurship, art, and meditation, Amanda shares how true coaching isn’t about offering quick fixes but about creating the space for self-discovery and lasting transformation. We also explore the business side of coaching, discussing the importance of mindset, mentorship, and choosing the right path—whether it’s self-employment, entrepreneurship, or scaling a sustainable coaching practice. If you're a coach or consultant looking to grow your impact and income, this conversation will help you rethink how you approach your own growth and your clients’ transformation.

In this episode of Change Champions, we’re joined by Peter McKenzie, an executive coach and strategist with over two decades of experience in corporate leadership. Peter shares his journey from navigating the challenges of the C-suite to building a successful coaching business alongside his full-time role. We dive into his signature framework for developing executive presence, exploring the three pillars of confidence, communication, and gravitas. Peter also reveals how he helps leaders unlock their full potential, overcome burnout, and create lasting impact. Whether you’re a coach, consultant, or leader looking to scale your influence and income, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive.

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the reality of building a thriving coaching or consulting business—beyond just mastering your craft. Many passionate professionals struggle with the business side of things, from client acquisition to financial sustainability. Our guest, Cathy Dixon, a Business Growth & Mindset Coach, shares powerful insights on balancing passion with profit, understanding your unique value, and staying agile in an ever-changing market. Cathy brings decades of experience helping service-based entrepreneurs build businesses that align with their values while maintaining financial stability and personal well-being. If you’ve ever felt stuck between chasing your passion and making a living, this conversation will give you the clarity and strategies you need to move forward with confidence.

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the art and science of coaching with high-performance transformation coach Iris Zimmermann. As an Olympic fencer, Stanford graduate, and former corporate leader, Iris brings a unique perspective to helping others unlock their potential. She shares her journey from following rigid coaching frameworks to embracing storytelling and authenticity as powerful tools for connection. Iris explores the challenges of guiding clients through discomfort, balancing empathy with accountability, and breaking free from the trap of endless credentialing. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or leader, this conversation will inspire you to bet on yourself, embrace the messy middle, and create meaningful transformations for yourself and your clients.

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the art of sustainable personal and professional growth with transformative executive leadership coach Cathy Dixon. With over 420 coaching sessions under her belt, Cathy brings a wealth of experience in helping CEOs, founders, and senior leaders strengthen their leadership presence, craft compelling narratives, and foster thriving organizational cultures. Together, we explore the power of self-awareness, the importance of creating supportive environments, and the role of reflective practices like journaling in achieving meaningful change. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or leader seeking to scale your impact, this episode is packed with insights to help you align with your goals and thrive in every aspect of life.

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive deep into the art of living a values-driven life with transformational coach and educator, Sherrilene Classen. A professor and department chair at the University of Florida, Sherrilene is also a certified coach, fitness instructor, and advocate for women's empowerment. With a passion for aligning priorities with purpose, she shares her journey of balancing multiple roles while staying true to her core values. From embracing pain as a catalyst for growth to creating intentional habits that drive focus and fulfillment, Sherrilene offers inspiring insights and practical strategies for coaches and consultants who want to scale their income, impact, and influence. Don’t miss this powerful conversation packed with wisdom, authenticity, and actionable takeaways! Learn more about Sherrilene’s offerings, like her Women’s Empowerment Program, by visiting her website: https://www.yoursacredsummit.com/transformationalcoaching

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into a powerful conversation with transformative leadership coach, Alison Conigliaro-Hubbard. After a 26-year career in global corporate tech, Alison faced a life-altering health crisis that reshaped her perspective and led her to redefine success on her own terms. She now helps high-performing professionals align their personal values with their professional ambitions, empowering them to break through limitations and lead with authenticity. From navigating personal transformation to building her innovative "Take the Reins" leadership program, Alison shares profound insights on self-discovery, growth, and the art of impactful leadership. Whether you're seeking inspiration to pivot or tools to elevate your leadership game, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the journey of aligning career ambitions with personal values to create a fulfilling, intentional life. Our guest, Alyssa Smith, is a Holistic Life and Career Coach who specializes in helping high-achieving women navigate career crossroads with clarity and confidence. Drawing from her own transformative experiences—spanning 17 years in education and an international move—Alyssa shares powerful insights on overcoming the pressure to "do it all" and instead focusing on alignment, self-awareness, and intentional growth. Whether you're looking to pivot, advance, or redefine success on your own terms, this conversation is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

In this episode of Change Champions, host Riley McGhee welcomes Sam Liebowitz, also known as The Conscious Consultant. With over 30 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, coaching, and spiritual exploration, Sam shares his transformative journey from traditional consulting to a holistic practice rooted in authenticity and intentionality. Together, they explore how defining success on your own terms, embracing uncertainty, and focusing on self-awareness can unlock profound personal and professional growth. Whether you're a coach or consultant seeking to scale your impact or simply someone navigating life's transitions, Sam's wisdom offers a refreshing perspective on aligning your business with your deeper purpose. Are you a coach or consultant? Join our community of impact-driven coaches & consultants TODAY to learn 6 proven strategies to create more sales opportunities, in less time, with less effort. You can start for free: https://www.leverageaccelerator.co/the-leverage-game

In this episode of Change Champions, we dive into the transformative power of self-leadership and overcoming fear with Dr. Benjamin Ritter, a career development and organizational leadership expert. Dr. Ritter, author of Becoming Fearless, shares his personal journey from facing repeated professional setbacks to building a thriving career aligned with his values. He unpacks the critical role fear plays in holding us back and offers practical strategies to reframe it as a tool for growth. Whether you're a coach or consultant looking to scale your impact or simply seeking more fulfillment in your career, this conversation will inspire you to take control of your narrative, embrace discomfort, and unlock your potential.