Time to Thrive - Marketing Strategies For Small Business

Is your business running you instead of the other way around? In this episode of Time to Thrive, we're joined by Melissa Morris, operations expert and founder of Your Agency Authority, to show you how to reclaim your time, reduce stress, and scale smarter—not harder. Melissa introduces her signature DISCO Framework, a simple yet powerful system for streamlining operations, onboarding clients efficiently, and ditching the chaos that comes with running a service-based business. From automating low-value tasks to creating touchpoints that wow your clients, Melissa brings the tactical strategies every overwhelmed entrepreneur needs. We dive into: shouldWhether you're a solopreneur ready to scale or a growing agency owner craving more breathing room, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive. Connect with Melissa Morris: 📬 DM “swipe files” to Melissa on LinkedIn to get her plug-and-play onboarding email templates. 00:00 Introduction to Melissa Morris 00:44 Icebreaker: Bucket List Dreams 01:57 Common Operational Mistakes 04:47 Streamlining Client Onboarding 08:11 First Steps to Automation 13:37 Hiring Your First Employee 16:10 Balancing Automation and Customer Experience 21:14 Using Automations and Processes 21:50 Reclaiming Time as a Business Owner 23:26 Tracking Time for Better Productivity 25:00 The Power of Closing Your Email 26:47 The Reality of Batching Tasks 29:40 Hiring Mistakes and Lessons Learned 33:41 Productivity Hacks and Time Management 38:23 Conclusion and How to Connect Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Struggling to find the right people to grow your business? In this episode of Time to Thrive, Bethany Meadows sits down with Kasim Aslam—hiring expert, bestselling author, and serial entrepreneur—to break down a revolutionary approach to finding and keeping top 1% talent. Kasim shares why traditional hiring methods fail, how to think beyond resumes and interviews, and the “flytrap” strategies he uses to attract high performers (and repel imposters). Learn how to hire for miracles, not just metrics—and why Pareto Talent can completely shift your business trajectory. Whether you’re making your first hire or scaling a fast-growing team, this episode is packed with practical, no-fluff advice on building a team that fuels your freedom, not your burnout. 🔑 In this episode, you’ll learn: andReady to stop hiring out of desperation and start building a dream team by design? Don’t miss this one. Get Kasim’s free book and resources: thehirebook.com 00:00 Introduction to the Guest: Cassum Islam 00:43 Icebreaker Questions and Personal Insights 02:21 Challenges in Hiring and the Art of Finding Top Talent 03:28 The Flaws in Traditional Hiring Practices 08:17 Understanding Pareto Talent and Its Importance 12:41 Effective Hiring Strategies and Fly Traps 19:24 When and How to Hire for Growth 23:49 Hiring Strategies for Entrepreneurs 24:36 Identifying Red Flags in Hiring 25:16 Understanding the Entrepreneurial Mindset 27:41 Effective Delegation Techniques 31:31 Managing Remote Teams 32:31 Aligning Incentives with Remote Work 39:05 Deciding on Business Opportunities 46:07 The Reality of Success and Sacrifice 47:59 Conclusion and Resources Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

What if your big idea isn’t landing—not because it’s wrong, but because your audience doesn’t understand it the way you do? In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with message strategist and Thinkers50 honoree Tamson Webster to unpack the real reason most leaders struggle to get buy-in. From her Red Thread® framework to the psychology of transformational change, Tamson shares how to make your message resonate on a deeper level—so it sticks, spreads, and sparks action. Whether you're leading a team, pitching a new idea, or building a brand, this episode will shift how you think about communication forever. You’ll learn: make the audience’s casePractical, research-backed, and packed with examples—this is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, marketers, and leaders alike. 🔗 Learn more about Tamson and her work at Message Design Institute 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:35 Icebreaker Question: Vintage Love 01:30 Tamson's Journey to Message Design 03:39 Understanding the Red Thread 05:33 Importance of Red Thread for Leaders 08:21 Tips for Entrepreneurs on Communication 11:36 Building a Strong Case for Your Idea 16:12 Practical Application for Business Owners 22:55 Strategic Business Differentiation 25:12 Understanding Customer Motivation 26:17 Physics of Motivation 29:44 Internal Motivation and Trust 35:46 Principle of Lasting Change 40:10 Make Their Case, Not Yours 44:31 Conclusion and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

We’ve officially hit 100 episodes of the Time to Thrive Podcast — and we’re celebrating this milestone with a true marketing legend: John Jantsch, founder of Duct Tape Marketing, best-selling author, and host of one of the longest-running business podcasts out there. In this episode, John unpacks what it really takes to create a marketing system that drives consistent growth — without chasing every new trend. From identifying your ideal client to building content that actually converts, he shares tactical insights every small business owner can put to use immediately. We talk about: beforeWhether you’re just getting started or scaling to the next level, this conversation is full of timeless marketing wisdom and practical takeaways. 🛠️ Learn more about John at ducttapemarketing.com 00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration 00:24 Introducing John Danced: Marketing Guru 01:21 Random Question Fun 02:14 The Importance of Strategy in Marketing 03:12 Defining Your Ideal Client 06:56 Brand Strategy Essentials 10:31 Turning Marketing into a System 16:30 The Role of Content in Strategy 19:06 Client Stories and Referrals 06:01 The Importance of Word of Mouth and Referrals 21:57 Scaling Your Business: Overcoming Growth Challenges 22:31 Three Key Elements for Successful Scaling 24:49 Advice for Solopreneurs and Freelancers 25:21 Delegation and Building a Team 28:22 Mindset Challenges in Business Growth 30:20 Insights from Podcasting and Guest Wisdom 32:25 Core Principles of Marketing 38:28 Practical Tips for Business Success 42:04 Conclusion and Where to Learn More Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

ired of feeling like sales means being pushy or aggressive? In this episode of Time to Thrive, sales strategist Doug Brown reveals how to win more business by building trust, mastering follow-up, and using a predictable, data-driven approach. With over 35 businesses built and nearly a billion dollars in revenue generated for clients, Doug knows what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to converting prospects into loyal customers. You’ll discover: idealIf you’ve ever dreaded the “hard sell” or worried about scaring prospects away, this conversation will change the way you think about selling forever. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to close more deals—without feeling pushy, fake, or salesy. Learn more about Doug Brown at www.ceosalesstrategies.com 00:00 Welcome to Time to Thrive 00:02 Introducing Doug Brown: The Cape Crusader of Conversion 00:21 Doug's Impressive Background and Achievements 01:33 Doug's Personal Insights and Reflections 02:57 Key Differences Between Thriving and Struggling Businesses 05:47 Understanding Buyer Profiles and Sales Strategies 07:44 Doug's Predictable Sales Model for Small Businesses 12:04 The Importance of Metrics and Follow-Up in Sales 17:13 Overcoming Sales Rejection and Misconceptions 22:36 The Impact of a Bad Sales Process 23:14 Understanding Win-Win Selling 25:50 Common Sales Mistakes to Avoid 26:37 The Importance of Follow-Up 31:51 Creative Sales Tactics That Work 37:16 The Real Business You're In 40:35 Designing Your Life and Business 45:21 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Are your brand messages feeling a little “all over the place”? You’re not alone—and today’s guest, Kristen Sweeney, is here to help you fix it. As the founder of Every Little Word, Kristen works with purpose-driven entrepreneurs and technical experts to turn their jumbled thoughts into crystal-clear content that reflects who they are and what they stand for. In this episode, she joins host Bethany Meadows to talk about the power of brand voice, why clear beats clever every time, and how small business owners can create messaging that actually connects. Together, they explore: Whether you’re writing web copy, launching a new product, or just tired of being misunderstood, this episode is a practical guide to saying what you really mean—and sounding like yourself while doing it. 🔗 Connect with Kristen at everylittleword.co or find her on LinkedIn. Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

What if your next business breakthrough could be as simple as a text message? In this episode of Time to Thrive, Bethany Meadows sits down with Chris Brisson, founder and CEO of SalesMsg, to talk about why SMS is the most underutilized yet powerful communication tool for small businesses. From lead generation to customer service to AI-enhanced conversations, Chris shares how entrepreneurs can use text messaging to create personal, scalable, and highly effective touchpoints with their audience. You’ll learn: Whether you’re a solopreneur or leading a growing team, this episode is packed with strategies to turn conversations into conversions—one text at a time. 👉 Learn more at salesmessage.com 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:52 Chris Broan's Entrepreneurial Journey 03:56 The Power of SMS in Business 08:32 Best Practices for SMS Marketing 17:03 Strategies to Boost Sales with SMS 21:03 Optimizing Messaging for Lead Engagement 21:48 Offering Free Growth Sessions 22:26 Revisiting Sales Message for Better Outreach 24:52 The Journey of Building Sales Message 25:06 Mindset Shifts for Startup Success 27:59 Validating Ideas Before Building 29:32 Scaling and Delegating in Business 33:37 Psychology of Effective Messaging 37:06 Importance of Product in Business Growth 43:44 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with Rich Brooks, founder of Flight New Media and host of The Agents of Change podcast and conference. With nearly three decades of digital marketing expertise, Rich unpacks what it really takes to create a digital presence that not only attracts attention—but actually converts. From the early days of dial-up to the AI-driven landscape of today, Rich shares tried-and-true strategies for small business owners to get results online without breaking the bank. Discover why content marketing remains king, how to choose the right platforms, and what most businesses are missing when it comes to lead generation and SEO. Plus, you'll hear practical tips on how to make your website your best salesperson—even if you're just starting out. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by tech or trying to figure out your next marketing move, this episode is packed with real talk, actionable insights, and a few laughs along the way. 🎯 Topics covered: If you're a small business owner ready to cut through the noise and start seeing real traction online, this is your episode. www.theagentsofchange.com 00:00 Introduction to the Guest: Ridge Brooks 00:38 Random Question: Qualities of a Great Parent 01:31 Digital Marketing Strategies: Then and Now 03:52 Starting Digital Marketing on a Small Budget 05:39 The Role of Social Media in Digital Marketing 10:30 Effective Lead Generation Tips 13:45 SEO Strategies for Small Businesses 18:43 Adapting to Market Shifts and AI 19:46 Leveraging AI for Marketing 20:44 Embracing Change and Authenticity 22:09 Conversion Optimization Strategies 22:43 Building Trust and Authority 26:00 The Role of Social Proof 29:58 Balancing AI and Human Touch 34:45 Remarkability in Business 37:03 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Is hustle culture burning you out? In this empowering episode of Time to Thrive, Bethany Meadows sits down with business strategist and CEO Collective founder, Racheal Cook, to challenge the traditional model of entrepreneurship. Racheal shares her revolutionary approach to building a life-first business—one that prioritizes your health, your family, and your peace of mind without sacrificing profit. From navigating the realities of entrepreneurial poverty to managing chronic illness while leading a thriving business, Racheal opens up about how intentional planning, setting clear definitions of success, and respecting your current life season can completely transform the way you run your business. Bethany and Racheal also get real about delegation, margin, and the emotional toll of trying to do it all. Whether you're a mompreneur, a service-based founder, or a woman who's tired of the burnout cycle, this episode will inspire you to reimagine success on your own terms. If you've ever wondered whether it’s possible to grow a successful business and still have a life—you’ll want to hear this. Topics We Cover: yourhttp://theceocollective.com 00:00 Introduction to Bethany Meadows and Rachel Cook 01:01 Rachel's Tips for Managing Chronic Illness 02:36 Understanding Entrepreneurial Poverty 05:10 Bethany's Journey as a Mompreneur 07:35 Balancing Business and Family Life 11:21 The Importance of Intentional Business Design 19:24 Redefining Success Beyond Money 21:09 Creating Quality Time with Kids 21:38 The Importance of a Support System 22:48 Defining Success in Relationships 23:52 Proactive Business Planning 24:53 Managing Feast or Famine in Business 26:12 Understanding Business Capacity 28:25 The Concept of Margin 31:20 Delegation and Team Building 39:00 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

What if the key to stronger marketing isn’t more automation—but more human connection? In this episode of Time to Thrive, we sit down with Casey Cheshire—Marine veteran, marketing automation expert, and host of over 500 podcast interviews. As the founder of Ringmaster Conversational Marketing and author of Marketing Automation Unleashed, Casey helps brands ditch disconnected marketing tactics and replace them with authentic, one-on-one conversations—starting with podcasting. In this fast-paced and funny conversation, Casey shares: Whether you’re looking to build trust, strengthen your brand, or finally kill the fluff in your marketing, Casey brings the clarity—and the laughs. 🎧 Plus, don’t miss his favorite email subject line strategy and why he believes every business should care at scale. 📬 Want to connect with Casey? Email him at casey@ringmaster.com or check out his podcast: The Hard Corps Marketing Show. 00:00 Introduction to Casey Cheshire 00:55 Icebreaker Questions 01:50 The Importance of Human Connection in Marketing 03:22 Recognizing Disconnected Marketing 04:14 The Role of Customer Experience 09:17 Avoiding Fluff and Bad Advice 14:10 The Power of Podcasting for B2B Marketing 17:24 Starting a Podcast: Tips and Challenges 19:18 Understanding Podcast ROI 20:08 Direct Revenue from Podcasting 21:54 Building Relationships Through Podcasting 23:53 Guesting on Podcasts: Tips and Tricks 25:58 Marketing Automation Insights 26:50 Effective Email Marketing Strategies 31:32 Repurposing Podcast Content 33:36 Leadership Lessons from the Military 36:42 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

What happens when you combine military precision with entrepreneurial heart? You get Walter and Tasha Carter—co-founders of Maximize Growth and a dynamic husband-and-wife duo helping organizations elevate their leadership, communication, and team performance. In this episode of Time to Thrive, we explore the most common leadership pitfalls small business owners face—and how to overcome them. From building self-awareness and creating effective communication channels, to fostering workplace culture and embracing generational differences on your team, Walter and Tasha deliver wisdom that’s both practical and powerful. They also share: Plus, we chat about why friction might be the thing holding your business back, and how intentionality can lead to breakthroughs. Whether you’re building a team, growing your influence, or simply trying to get out of the weeds of day-to-day operations, this conversation will inspire you to lead with both strategy and soul. 🔗 Connect with Walter & Tasha at maximizedgrowthllc.com or on social @MaximizedNow. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:56 Icebreaker Question: Spending $1,000 on a Friend 02:22 Leadership Development: Self-Awareness and Influence 04:28 Communication in Growing Organizations 07:43 Delegation and Trust in Leadership 10:56 John Maxwell's Influence on Leadership Coaching 13:54 Building a Positive Workplace Culture 16:45 Understanding Employee Motivations 19:07 Structure and Accountability in Small Businesses 20:23 Documenting Conversations for Growth 21:21 Understanding and Addressing Friction 24:04 The Importance of Communication and Systems 25:49 Leveraging AI and Productivity Tools 27:24 The Role of Coaching in Business 31:40 Military Insights on Leadership and Operations 35:02 Common Mistakes in Leadership 38:29 Maximize Growth: Services and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

What does it take to go from life-threatening trauma to thriving entrepreneur? In this powerful episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with Nick Prefontaine—top motivational speaker, 3x best-selling author, and founder of Common Goal. At just 14 years old, Nick suffered a devastating snowboarding accident and was told he might never walk or talk again. Not only did he defy the odds, he created a life and business rooted in purpose. Nick shares how he developed the S.T.E.P. system—a practical and empowering method that helps individuals move through trauma and toward their highest potential. From rebuilding his life to building a mission-driven business, Nick’s story is a reminder that our greatest challenges can unlock our deepest purpose. Whether you're facing personal adversity or business burnout, this conversation will inspire you to take that first step—because as Nick says, “Once you take your first step, your next step is always possible.” 🎧 Tune in to learn: www.nickprefontaine.com 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:21 Nick's Inspirational Story Begins 02:32 The Snowboarding Accident 04:46 Miraculous Recovery and STEP System 13:20 Real Estate Journey 23:29 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Fear 29:04 Advice for Entrepreneurs 32:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

In today’s polarized world, consumer decisions are influenced by more than just price and quality—values and worldview play a major role. In this episode, we sit down with Chris Peterson, author of Red & Blue Customers and co-founder of LifeMind, to explore how small business owners can refine their marketing strategies to better connect with their ideal customers. Chris shares insights on: ✅ How political and cultural identity shape buying behavior ✅ The biggest mistakes businesses make when trying to appeal to "everyone" ✅ Practical steps to identify and attract the right audience ✅ Subtle messaging shifts that can make your brand more effective ✅ How to market smarter—without taking a political stance Whether you're a small business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur, this episode will give you actionable takeaways to help you craft marketing messages that truly resonate. 🔗 Get Chris’s book, Red & Blue Customers → Buy Here 🌐 Learn more about LifeMind AI → lifemind.ai Tune in now to discover how to align your brand for success! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Icebreaker Question 01:39 Exploring the Book: Red and Blue Customers 02:30 Research Insights and Market Behavior 06:55 Applying Insights to Business 10:06 Marketing Strategies for Different Audiences 26:05 Challenges and Missteps in Marketing 29:11 Practical Steps for Business Owners 35:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Want to start a side hustle but not sure where to begin? In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with Nick Loper, founder of Side Hustle Nation, to share practical strategies for launching and growing a successful side hustle. ✅ Low-risk side hustles you can start while keeping your full-time job ✅ How to validate an idea before investing time and money ✅ Time management hacks to balance business, work, and family ✅ Scaling beyond trading time for money with automation & outsourcing Nick shares real-world tactics that have helped countless entrepreneurs turn their skills and passions into profitable income streams. Whether you're looking for extra cash or aiming to transition into full-time entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with actionable insights! 📢 Listen now and start your side hustle journey today! 🔗 Connect with Nick Loper: 👉 Website: SideHustleNation.com 👉 Podcast: The Side Hustle Show (Available on all podcast platforms) #SideHustle #Entrepreneurship #PassiveIncome #SmallBusiness #TimeToThrive Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with small business expert and bestselling author Steve Strauss to explore the future of entrepreneurship. From leveraging AI and automation to streamlining operations and securing funding, Steve shares practical strategies for scaling smart and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving market. He also discusses the power of thought leadership, branding and maintaining the human touch in a digital age. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you thrive. Tune in now and learn how to future-proof your business! Learn more at www.MrAllBiz.com Subscribe to Notes To An Entrepreneur (I did!) at Notes To An Entrepreneur 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:36 Icebreaker Question 02:22 Challenges for Small Businesses 03:01 The Role of Technology 07:02 Lessons from Big Brands 14:12 Scaling Smart and Growth Strategies 20:53 Succession Planning and Personal Stories 22:14 Unexpected Inheritance and Business Challenges 22:51 The Importance of Succession Planning 23:42 Innovative Marketing Strategies 25:03 The Power of Pay Per Click Advertising 26:48 Leveraging AI and Technology in Business 34:13 Securing Funding for Your Business 36:28 Future Trends and Human Touch in Business 40:40 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

From struggling to make payroll to running multi-million-dollar affiliate programs, Matt McWilliams knows what it takes to scale a business through partnerships. In this episode of Time to Thrive, Matt breaks down the power of affiliate marketing and how entrepreneurs can leverage it to grow quickly with minimal risk. Discover how to start your own affiliate program, attract top affiliates and avoid common mistakes that hold businesses back. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your strategy, Matt’s insights will help you turn connections into cash. Key topics: ✅ The fastest way to scale a business with affiliate marketing ✅ Essential elements of a successful affiliate program ✅ Common mistakes to avoid when recruiting affiliates ✅ How personal branding helps attract top affiliates Tune in and start building your affiliate empire today! 🔗 Learn more from Matt at www.mattmcwilliams.com/first100 00:00 Welcome to Time to Thrive 00:03 Meet Matt McWilliams: The Affiliate Guy 02:56 The Power of Affiliate Marketing 05:15 Matt's Journey into Affiliate Marketing 08:58 Building a Successful Affiliate Program 14:38 Common Mistakes in Affiliate Marketing 20:55 Incentivizing Affiliates for Maximum Sales 22:05 The Importance of Personal Branding 25:43 Starting Your Affiliate Marketing Journey 28:21 Innovative Affiliate Strategies 32:17 Building Mutually Beneficial Partnerships 35:52 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Most businesses compete on price, but what if there was a better way to attract and retain customers? In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with John Dwyer, founder of the Institute of Wow, to uncover a simple yet powerful marketing strategy that 97% of businesses overlook—incentives. John shares real-world success stories of businesses that boosted sales without slashing prices, including a restaurant that fills its seats every night and a bank that stopped advertising interest rates and still grew by billions. In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why incentives work better than discounts ✅ How to create offers that make your business stand out ✅ The biggest mistakes businesses make with customer engagement ✅ How to collect and use customer data to increase loyalty If you're tired of price wars and want a smarter way to market your business, this episode is a must-listen. 🔗 Learn more about John Dwyer and the Institute of Wow at instituteofwow.com. 🎧 Tune in now and discover the marketing tactic that could transform your business. Other websites to explore: https://vacationsincentive.comhttps://fbcontestformula.comhttps://aigenietrades.comhttps://aigeniephone.com00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:39 Icebreaker Question 01:43 Understanding the Wow Factor 03:30 Importance of Data Collection 11:02 Effective Loyalty Programs 16:16 Digital Marketing Strategies 23:21 Transition to Small Business Sector 24:12 The Power of Storytelling 25:10 Building Trust and Personal Branding 25:58 Surrounding Yourself with the Right People 26:59 Effective Marketing Tactics 29:44 Case Study: Greater Building Society 33:55 Content Marketing Success 37:45 The Power of Incentives 41:28 Inspiring Others Through Generosity 44:32 Key Takeaways and Conclusion Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

AI can feel overwhelming—especially for entrepreneurs who aren’t “tech-savvy.” But what if getting started was easier than you think? In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with Diana Lee, founder of Waggle.ai, to break down the first steps to using AI in your business. Diana shares her journey from pharmacist to AI entrepreneur and explains how small business owners can use AI to work smarter, not harder. Whether you’re a solopreneur looking to scale or simply curious about AI, this episode will help you understand: ✅ How AI can support (not replace) your business ✅ The simplest way to get started with ChatGPT ✅ How AI can help with brainstorming, goal-setting, and automation ✅ Why embracing AI now can give you a competitive edge If you’ve been hesitant to explore AI, this episode will give you the confidence and practical steps to start today! 🔗 Learn more about Diana Lee and Waggle.ai at waggle.ai. 🎧 Tune in now and take your first step toward scaling smarter with AI! 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:43 Icebreaker Questions 02:25 Diana's Journey to AI 05:30 The Power of AI for Solopreneurs 06:20 The Origin of Waggle 08:01 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 19:15 Balancing Automation with Authenticity 22:55 Practical AI Tips for Small Businesses 32:02 Mindset and Overcoming Self-Doubt 36:31 Conclusion and Contact Information Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Are you drowning in daily tasks and struggling to scale your business? It’s time to simplify, systematize and thrive! In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows welcomes Kate Erickson, the brains behind the systems at Entrepreneurs on Fire. Kate shares her expert insights on how to bring order to business operations, create repeatable processes and build the kind of structure that fuels long-term success. You’ll learn: ✅ How to take inventory of your daily tasks to identify inefficiencies ✅ The key systems that keep Entrepreneurs on Fire running smoothly ✅ Why avoiding the “shiny object syndrome” is crucial for business growth ✅ The secret to balancing big-picture vision with operational details ✅ How to delegate effectively without sacrificing quality If you're ready to take control of your business and create the freedom you dreamed of when you started, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 Tune in now and take the first step toward a more streamlined, scalable business. Learn more about Entrepreneurs on Fire at www.eofire.com 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:49 Random Questions with Kate 01:53 First Steps to Systematizing Your Business 05:21 Creating Effective Systems and Processes 07:56 Balancing Big Picture Thinking and Details 11:53 Tools and Strategies for Productivity 14:36 Building Freedom in Your Business 17:33 Delegating and Building a Team 23:26 Building and Engaging a Community 30:30 Common Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make 34:47 Key Takeaways and Conclusion Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.

Are you ready to transform your business with the power of predictable income? In this episode of Time to Thrive, host Bethany Meadows sits down with Stu McLaren, a leading expert in membership-based business models and the creator of The Tribe Experience. Stu shares his inspiring journey from a service-based entrepreneur to building thriving membership platforms that empower businesses to scale sustainably while creating impact and freedom. Discover why membership models are revolutionizing industries, how they create stability for business owners, and the key strategies to launching and growing a profitable membership. Whether you’re a small business owner, creative entrepreneur, or service provider, Stu’s insights will open your eyes to the untapped potential of recurring revenue. Want to learn more from Stu? Visit stu.me for expert advice, and check out his latest book, Predictable Profits, at stu.me/book to take your membership strategy to the next level. 00:00 Welcome to Time to Thrive 01:08 Stu McLaren's Influences and Early Life 04:45 The Birth of a Membership Business 09:12 Challenges and Pivotal Moments 14:34 Understanding the Membership Model 21:16 Exploring Product-Based Memberships 21:57 Service-Based Memberships: Real-Life Examples 23:14 Information-Based Memberships: Teaching and Learning 24:11 Community-Based Memberships: Building Connections 25:15 Common Mistakes to Avoid in Memberships 30:07 Open vs. Closed Membership Models 39:32 The Power of Recurring Revenue 42:38 Where to Get the Book and Final Thoughts Discover the strategies, systems and skills that lead to success in business. Visit TimeToThriveInBusiness.com to learn more.