The Aspiring Solopreneur
Business & Economics Podcasts
*Formerly known as Solopreneur: The One-Person Business Podcast* Welcome to The Aspiring Solopreneur, the weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of solopreneurship. Join us as we bring you insightful interviews with industry experts and successful solopreneurs who have mastered the art of running their own businesses. Are you a solopreneur looking for guidance on how to attract clients? Or maybe you're searching for ways to stay motivated and overcome the challenges of working alone. Perhaps you're even struggling with the intricacies of taxes and financial management. No matter what obstacles you face, The Aspiring Solopreneur Podcast is here to provide you with the knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice you need. In each episode, our hosts, Joe Rando and Carly Ries, sit down with a diverse range of guests, including seasoned solopreneurs, marketing gurus, financial experts, and productivity specialists. Together, they unpack the secrets to solo success, sharing their personal stories, strategies, and actionable tips. Learn from those who have paved the way before you, as they reveal their tried-and-true methods for growing their company of one. Subscribe now and join our community of solopreneurs who are committed to achieving their goals, mastering their craft, and creating a fulfilling and prosperous business on their own terms. Get ready to unlock the secrets to solo success and become the best version of yourself as a one-person business owner. Want to learn from and grow with other solopreneurs? Join our movement for FREE at https://www.lifestarr.com/solosuite-intro-for-solopreneurs
Location:
United States
Description:
*Formerly known as Solopreneur: The One-Person Business Podcast* Welcome to The Aspiring Solopreneur, the weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of solopreneurship. Join us as we bring you insightful interviews with industry experts and successful solopreneurs who have mastered the art of running their own businesses. Are you a solopreneur looking for guidance on how to attract clients? Or maybe you're searching for ways to stay motivated and overcome the challenges of working alone. Perhaps you're even struggling with the intricacies of taxes and financial management. No matter what obstacles you face, The Aspiring Solopreneur Podcast is here to provide you with the knowledge, inspiration, and practical advice you need. In each episode, our hosts, Joe Rando and Carly Ries, sit down with a diverse range of guests, including seasoned solopreneurs, marketing gurus, financial experts, and productivity specialists. Together, they unpack the secrets to solo success, sharing their personal stories, strategies, and actionable tips. Learn from those who have paved the way before you, as they reveal their tried-and-true methods for growing their company of one. Subscribe now and join our community of solopreneurs who are committed to achieving their goals, mastering their craft, and creating a fulfilling and prosperous business on their own terms. Get ready to unlock the secrets to solo success and become the best version of yourself as a one-person business owner. Want to learn from and grow with other solopreneurs? Join our movement for FREE at https://www.lifestarr.com/solosuite-intro-for-solopreneurs
Language:
English
Email:
carly@lifestarr.com
Episodes
193. Have A Solo Business and Struggling? These Rookie Moves Might Be Why
5/15/2025
Ever wonder what rookie mistakes might secretly be sabotaging your solopreneur journey? In this episode, Carly and Joe dive into the biggest blunders new solopreneurs make, from flying solo a little too solo to underpricing, overplanning, and forgetting the golden rule of lead gen.
Whether you're just starting out or already in the thick of it, these are the missteps to avoid if you want to build a business that actually works for your life.
Bonus: Get the inside scoop on their upcoming book Solopreneur Business for Dummies!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:13:21
192. Get to Work: The Simple Mantra That Can Lead to Solo Success
5/13/2025
What do addiction recovery, international web hosting, youth boxing, and AI-powered solopreneurship have in common? Ken Cox.
In this raw and inspiring episode, Ken shares how hitting rock bottom sparked a complete life overhaul—from buying a boxing gym to launching tech ventures that run on AI. If you're stuck overthinking, this episode might just be the wake-up call you need. Let's get to work.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:29:14
191. [Re-Release] The Roadmap to Reliable Income for Every Solopreneur - Sound Bite Episode
5/8/2025
Feeling like you’re constantly chasing your next paycheck or running out of time to grow your business? You’re not alone! In this short episode, Carly and Joe dive into the game-changing potential of recurring revenue for solopreneurs.
From Joe's firsthand experience building subscription-based businesses to Carly's actionable tips for keeping your pipeline full, you’ll learn how to create financial stability, reduce your selling time, and focus on doing what you love.
This episode offers creative strategies and insights to make recurring revenue work for you. So, be sure to tune in!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:09:54
190. The Power of the Pivot: Reinventing Yourself After Layoffs and Burnout
5/6/2025
What do laid-off marketers, disgruntled Gen Xers, and rule-breaking entrepreneurs have in common? They all need to hear this episode. Laura Zavelson joins us to talk about why niching down is your secret weapon, how to sell without sounding salesy, and the real reason you’re probably undercharging (hint: it’s not because you need another certification).
Whether you're plotting your escape from corporate or building your solo biz one belief-shifting post at a time, Laura has insights for you.
Hit play and find out why following the rules might just be costing you the fun and the clients.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:29:03
189. [Re-Release] Building Your Personal Brand: It’s More Than a Logo and a Tagline - Sound Bite Episode
5/1/2025
Think your brand is just a logo and a color scheme? Think again! As a solopreneur, YOU are your brand. In this sound bite episode, we dive into what truly makes a personal brand stand out.
From embracing your unique strengths to building trust with your audience, we break down why your brand is about more than just marketing—it’s about who you are and how you show up.
Plus, we’ll tackle the common mistakes solopreneurs make when crafting their brand (spoiler: calling yourself an "expert" isn’t always the best move).
Tune in for insights, laughs, and practical advice on how to make your personal brand unforgettable.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:10:26
188. Beyond “Find Your Why”: A Smarter Approach to Purpose-Driven Solopreneurship
4/29/2025
Feeling lost trying to "find your passion"? You're not alone—and maybe that's not even the right thing to be chasing!
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Paul Davis, creator of the Genius Code, to uncover why passion fades, purpose sticks, and how true inspiration can unlock the life and business you were meant to build. (Warning: you might get a little teary in the best way possible.)
If you're a solopreneur craving more meaning and momentum, you cannot miss this one!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:32:36
187. Future-Proof Your Solo Biz: Stay Relevant Without Losing Your Mind - Sound Bite Episode
4/24/2025
If you're still getting your business advice from that one guy on LinkedIn who hasn't updated his profile since 2014... this episode is your wake-up call.
We're diving into what it really means to future-proof your solo business—and spoiler: it’s not just about hopping on the latest tech trend. From decluttering your feed to actually talking to your audience, Carly and Joe share no-fluff strategies to help you stay ahead without burning out.
Whether you’re overwhelmed by AI hype or stuck in scroll mode, this episode will help you cut through the noise and tune into what actually matters to help you run a successful solo business.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:10:34
186. Missed Your Goals? It’s Not Self-Sabotage—Here’s What It Really Is
4/22/2025
Feel like your goals ghosted you this year?
You're not alone—and it's not self-sabotage.
In this episode, we’re talking to self-trust coach Dawn Ledet about why missed goals aren't failures, how to stop making your inner dialogue sound like a mean girl, and what to do when your ambition outpaces your execution.
Whether you’re a solopreneur navigating your next big move or just trying to stop rage-scrolling instead of working, this conversation is your permission slip to ditch the guilt and actually work with yourself—not against you.
Let’s rethink the whole “new year, new me” thing… and make some real progress instead.
🎙 Tune in, subscribe, and get ready to be inspired! Oh, and don’t forget to leave us that five-star review :)
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:23:27
185. [Re-Release] Why Hosting Events May Be A Solopreneur's Best Marketing Tool Yet - Sound Bite Episode
4/18/2025
Hosting events has been an absolute game-changer for lead generation and building genuine connections. Joe and Carly are huge fans of taking something as simple as a webinar, giving it a little makeover, and calling it an “event.”
Trust us, it makes a world of difference! When you frame it as an event, it instantly feels more exciting and engaging—not just for your audience but for you too.
Events create real value for participants and foster a sense of community that’s hard to replicate. There’s just something special about coming together, sharing ideas, and making connections that stick. That’s why we are always encouraging solopreneurs to lean into hosting events. It’s the perfect way to connect with your audience, build relationships, and show that human interaction is way more powerful than just another piece of content.
So tune into this episode to find out more!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out SoloSuite Intro!
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Duration:00:08:53
184. Six Keys to Solopreneur Success: Lessons from a 20-Year Veteran with Liz Steblay
4/16/2025
What does it take to thrive as a solopreneur and truly love the life you’re building? Liz Steblay knows the answer—and she’s sharing her wisdom from over 20 years of self-employment, coaching, and business-building. In this episode, Liz reveals how she fell into solopreneurship before the term even existed, the hard lessons she learned along the way, and the six essential keys to succeeding as a solopreneur.
From navigating financial independence to finding your niche, Liz's advice is practical, inspiring, and a must-hear for anyone considering taking the leap from corporate America. Plus, she shares actionable tips on building momentum, staying confident, and creating a business you actually enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned solopreneur or just dreaming of making the jump, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to fuel your journey.
Want to dive deeper? Head to 6keys.info to learn more about Liz and her book Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth.
🎙 Tune in, subscribe, and get ready to be inspired! Oh, and don’t forget to leave us that five-star review :)
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr's SoloSuite Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:30:06
183. The Soloprenur's Secret to High-Converting Virtual Events - Sound Bite Episode
4/10/2025
Think you need a big budget and a bigger team to run successful virtual events? Think again.
In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando pull back the curtain on how their small group consistently uses virtual events to generate leads, build trust, and grow their community—without the overwhelm. From low-tech tools (spoiler: Zoom wins again) to their secret sauce for nurturing attendees before, during, and after the event, they’re dishing out practical tips any solopreneur can use.
Whether you’re planning your first interactive workshop or looking to boost turnout and conversions, this episode proves that big results don’t require big resources—just smart strategy and a solid run-of-show.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:14:35
182. Think You Need a Sexy Startup Idea To Be Successful? Think Again.
4/9/2025
What do you get when you combine a smart marketing mind, a super simple service, and a willingness to do what others won’t? A thriving, outside-the-box solopreneur success story.
In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, we’re joined by William Milliken, founder of SwoopScoop, who turned a household chore into a scalable subscription business. We dive into how he built a local service empire, the creative marketing tactics that made it take off, and why sometimes the best business ideas are hiding in plain sight.
If you've been stuck thinking you have to do something virtual, this conversation will seriously shift your mindset.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:21:28
181. [Re-Release] The Roadmap to Reliable Income for Every Solopreneur - Sound Bite Episode
4/3/2025
Feeling like you’re constantly chasing your next paycheck or running out of time to grow your business? You’re not alone! In this short episode, Carly and Joe dive into the game-changing potential of recurring revenue for solopreneurs.
From Joe's firsthand experience building subscription-based businesses to Carly's actionable tips for keeping your pipeline full, you’ll learn how to create financial stability, reduce your selling time, and focus on doing what you love.
This episode offers creative strategies and insights to make recurring revenue work for you. So, be sure to tune in!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:09:54
180. [Re-Release] The Ultimate Solopreneur Checklist for Bookkeeping and Taxes with Melissa and Eric Broughton
4/1/2025
Ever feel like taxes are the ultimate entrepreneurial riddle you're never quite sure you've solved?
Every form you have to complete and every deduction you have to consider can leave you wondering if you're doing everything correctly.
Taxes and bookkeeping are hard to understand, especially when you’re busy running the rest of your business.
That’s why we invited on Melissa and Eric Broughton of Busy Bee Advisors. With over 20 years of combined bookkeeping and tax experience, this duo helps solopreneurs and small businesses gain more financial clarity and pay less in taxes.
We were shocked throughout this episode and our jaws hit the floor a couple of times. We learned some valuable information we had never heard before that is so beneficial to one-person business owners.
During the episode, we discussed things like:
Plus so much more! Be sure to tune in.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:43:09
179. Beyond Hourly: Creative Ways to Make Money as a Solopreneur - Sound Bite Episode
3/28/2025
Tired of trading time for money? Think your only pricing options are hourly or retainer? Think again.
In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando are breaking open the revenue model box. From subscription models to productized services, online courses to scalable solutions, they’re sharing the creative—and often overlooked—ways solopreneurs can make bank without burning out.
Carly reflects on her early pricing struggles, Joe takes us back to a pre-Internet SaaS story that flopped (then flourished), and together they dish out practical advice for building income that doesn’t rely on nonstop hustle.
If you're ready to reimagine how you make money, this one's a must-listen.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:08:49
178. Sales Tips for Solopreneurs Who Hate Selling with Nikki Rausch
3/25/2025
What if selling didn’t feel salesy at all?
In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly and Joe sit down with the brilliant Nikki Rausch, creator of the Selling Staircase and queen of relationship selling. Nikki breaks down how to ditch the pushy tactics and build trust through smart questions, real conversations, and—get this—actually asking permission to sell. (Novel concept, right?)
She spills the tea on the biggest sales mistakes people make (yes, those cringey LinkedIn messages) and how to flip the script with connection-first strategies that feel genuinely good—even if you’re totally allergic to sales.
Oh, and she’s got thoughts on why every solopreneur needs a high-ticket offer (and how to anchor it the right way).
Whether you’re new to sales or just tired of the icky stuff, this one’s going to be your secret weapon.
Tune in now and grab Nikki’s free training just for Aspiring Solopreneur listeners at yoursalesmaven.com/aspiring.
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:23:35
177. Why Keeping Your Solo Business Idea a Secret is a Huge Mistake - Sound Bite Episode
3/20/2025
Are you keeping your business idea under wraps, afraid someone will steal it? Think again! In this short episode, we break down why secrecy could be sabotaging your success—and what to do instead. Learn how to properly vet your product or service, test your messaging, and refine your pricing before launching, so you don’t waste time on an idea that won’t fly.
Ready to stop hiding and start growing? Hit play now!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:13:15
176. When to Hustle, When to Rest: The Solopreneur’s Guide to Longevity - A Sound Bite Episode
3/13/2025
Feeling overwhelmed? Struggling with writer’s block? You’re not alone. In this short episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando get real about those days when motivation is nowhere to be found. They dive into the power of stepping away, reconnecting with your “why,” and knowing when to push through versus when to pivot.
Plus, they share insights on burnout, mindset shifts, and the importance of having a solopreneur community to lean on. If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I keep going or call it quits?”—this episode is for you.
Tune in now!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:08:09
175. Do You Have What It Takes? The Traits Every Solopreneur Needs to Succeed with Margot Machol Bisnow
3/11/2025
What if the secret to success isn’t just about what you do—but how you think? In this episode, we sit down with Margot Machol Bisnow, author of Raising an Entrepreneur, to unpack the mindset that fuels solopreneurs and self-starters alike.
We’re diving into the grit, resilience, risk-taking, curiosity, and compassion that define entrepreneurial success—whether you're raising a future business owner or stepping into solopreneurship yourself. Margot shares wisdom from 99 entrepreneurs and their families, revealing the common threads that shaped their paths.
reallyraiseAnd, of course, we tackle one of the biggest myths in entrepreneurship—the idea that if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. (Spoiler: That’s not exactly how it works!)
This is a must-listen for anyone carving their own path in business—don’t miss it!
Listen now on The Aspiring Solopreneur and be sure to subscribe for more game-changing insights!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:27:15
174. Smart Strategies for Solopreneurs Balancing Work, Life, and Sanity - Sound Bite Episode
3/6/2025
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone! It’s easy to get buried in the chaos. But what if you could actually plan your week in a way that keeps you productive and sane?
In this short episode, Carly Ries and Joe Rando break down strategies for prioritizing tasks, staying flexible, and avoiding the dreaded to-do list burnout. Plus, the simple mindset shift that will have you ending each day feeling like a rockstar!
Hit play and let’s get your week under control!
Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bigger companies, and you're all alone...until now. LifeStarr Intro gives you free education, community, and tools to build a thriving one-person business. So, if you are lacking direction, having a hard time generating leads, or are having trouble keeping up with everything you have to do, or even just lonely running a company of one, be sure to check out LifeStarr Intro!
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Duration:00:10:40