Simplify to Scale Show

Are you wondering how to future-proof your service-based business? Curious about how AI is reshaping client expectations and pricing? Want to know what shifts are coming your way from the large-scale enterprise world? In this episode, I share the latest trends and strategies that are emerging in big business and will soon make their way into the small business space. I highlight how time is becoming less of a factor in pricing, especially as AI tools dramatically speed up workflows. I explore how to rethink offers to be outcome and value-focused, the importance of dialing in your processes, and ensuring your team is operating at peak efficiency. I also give a real-world look at why working smarter, not harder, keeps you competitive as client expectations evolve. If you want practical insights for protecting your margins and staying in demand, this episode is for you. Stay ahead of the curve and set your business up for sustainable growth by tuning in. In this episode, I discuss how: Founders: Are you ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? Start by joining me inside our next Scale Simpler workshop, where I help you discover the hidden factors keeping you stuck in the day-to-day. Then join me in Extraction, where we'll spend 4 weeks together developing your founder extraction roadmap to help you finally get out of the day-to-day of the business without things falling apart. Register for Scale Simpler at https://www.leanscaling.com/scaleworkshop and Extraction at https://www.leanscaling.com/extraction Fractionals & Consultants: Ready to become the strategic partner that small businesses can't imagine scaling without? Apply for our Chief Strategy and Operating Officer (CSOO) certification and become licensed to leverage our Lean Scaling System™ to simplify how you scale your clients' businesses (and your own) and step into the role founders are increasingly searching for. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/certification Fractionals, Consultants, & Leaders: Ready to deepen your strategic leadership skills and differentiate your services to stand out in a crowded market? Join our SOL Collective community, THE private space centered on strategic leadership, AI enablement, and defining your signature positioning for those who partner with small to mid-sized businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Have you ever wondered how your path can twist and turn in unexpected ways? Do you ever feel like you need everything figured out before making big moves? Curious about what it's really like to scale a business from humble beginnings? In this episode, I open up about my winding journey from launching Connecticut's first espresso bar to building a thriving jewelry brand, and eventually growing Lean Scaling Co. I share real stories about learning through mistakes, creating new ideas, and managing the pressures of juggling multiple ventures. Along the way, I reflect on lessons learned in team building, creative direction, and operational improvements. I talk about scaling my jewelry brand to international success, the challenges that arose, and how blending my creative and strategic sides helped transform my businesses. As I walk through the pivotal moments and hard decisions, I hope my story encourages you to embrace your unique path and persistent curiosity. I'd love to hear your own winding journey! Join the conversation and let's keep inspiring each other to scale with intention and simplicity! In this episode, I explore: Founders: Are you ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? Start by joining me inside our next Scale Simpler workshop, where I help you discover the hidden factors keeping you stuck in the day-to-day. Then join me in Extraction, where we'll spend 4 weeks together developing your founder extraction roadmap to help you finally get out of the day-to-day of the business without things falling apart. Register for Scale Simpler at https://www.leanscaling.com/scaleworkshop and Extraction at https://www.leanscaling.com/extraction Fractionals & Consultants: Ready to become the strategic partner that small businesses can't imagine scaling without? Apply for our Chief Strategy and Operating Officer (CSOO) certification and become licensed to leverage our Lean Scaling System™ to simplify how you scale your clients' businesses (and your own) and step into the role founders are increasingly searching for. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/certification Fractionals, Consultants, & Leaders: Ready to deepen your strategic leadership skills and differentiate your services to stand out in a crowded market? Join our SOL Collective community, THE private space centered on strategic leadership, AI enablement, and defining your signature positioning for those who partner with small to mid-sized businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

What if your vitality was the true engine behind your business growth? How can tuning into your physical and emotional well-being transform your approach to leadership? Are you ready to rethink your strategies for scaling by starting with yourself first? In this episode, I sit down with energy alchemist and functional health practitioner Kristin Sitek to explore the deep connection between health and business. She has a unique ability to tune into both the physical body and the deeper emotional and energetic patterns that drive chronic symptoms. By blending the science of functional lab testing and personalized protocols with the art of intuitive energy healing, Kristin helps her clients make their physical and energetic health their greatest competitive edge. Our candid conversation uncovers how mindful daily practices, functional lab testing, and energy work can support founders in reaching new levels of clarity and performance. Kristin shares her experiences guiding high-achieving leaders to prioritize their health as their biggest asset, rather than an afterthought. Together, we discuss generational patterns in managing change, the importance of aligning identity with personal goals, and why unresolved stress or hidden symptoms shouldn't be ignored on the path to success. "Your health is your greatest asset. Without your health, you lose so much." Kristin Sitek In this episode we explore: Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinsitek/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristin.sitek/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristin.sitek Website: www.kristinsitek.com Let this episode inspire you to see your well-being as your greatest advantage. Tune in, reflect, and treat yourself to the support and transformation you deserve as you build the life and business you truly want! Founders: Are you ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? Start by joining me inside our next Scale Simpler workshop, where I help you discover the hidden factors keeping you stuck in the day-to-day. Then join me in Extraction, where we'll spend 4 weeks together developing your founder extraction roadmap to help you finally get out of the day-to-day of the business without things falling apart. Register for Scale Simpler at https://www.leanscaling.com/scaleworkshop and Extraction at https://www.leanscaling.com/extraction Fractionals & Consultants: Ready to become the strategic partner that small businesses can't imagine scaling without? Apply for our Chief Strategy and Operating Officer (CSOO) certification and become licensed to leverage our Lean Scaling System™ to simplify how you scale your clients' businesses (and your own) and step into the role founders are increasingly searching for. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/certification Fractionals, Consultants, & Leaders: Ready to deepen your strategic leadership skills and differentiate your services to stand out in a crowded market? Join our SOL Collective community, THE private space centered on strategic leadership, AI enablement, and defining your signature positioning for those who partner with small to mid-sized businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you ready to finally get out of the daily grind in your business? Wondering what steps it truly takes to simplify and scale in a way that lasts? Curious about how visionary founders and right-hand leaders create sustainable success together? On this episode, I am joined by Jessica Maine, and we share a behind-the-scenes look at Lean Scaling Company and Strategic Ops Institute, revealing the approaches and small pivots that help founders design businesses not dependent on themselves. We explore the importance of having both the right systems and the right people, how to structure teams and offers for lasting impact, and invite you into a fresh four-week "Extraction" sprint kicking off in March to help leaders transform their business structure fast. Looking to step into more freedom and make your business truly scalable this year? Take this opportunity to build a business that lets you live your rich, fulfilled life! In this episode, we explore Founders: Are you ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? Start by joining me inside our next Scale Simpler workshop, where I help you discover the hidden factors keeping you stuck in the day-to-day. Then join me in Extraction, where we'll spend 4 weeks together developing your founder extraction roadmap to help you finally get out of the day-to-day of the business without things falling apart. Register for Scale Simpler at https://www.leanscaling.com/scaleworkshop and Extraction at https://www.leanscaling.com/extraction Fractionals & Consultants: Ready to become the strategic partner that small businesses can't imagine scaling without? Apply for our Chief Strategy and Operating Officer (CSOO) certification and become licensed to leverage our Lean Scaling System™ to simplify how you scale your clients' businesses (and your own) and step into the role founders are increasingly searching for. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/certification Fractionals, Consultants, & Leaders: Ready to deepen your strategic leadership skills and differentiate your services to stand out in a crowded market? Join our SOL Collective community, THE private space centered on strategic leadership, AI enablement, and defining your signature positioning for those who partner with small to mid-sized businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Could doing less help you achieve more? How do you design a business that fits your life, not the other way around? What if your optimal work week was just 16 hours? On this episode, I welcome Sarah Olivieri, creator of the Impact Method, to explore how she consistently runs a profitable business with only 16 hours of work each week. Sara is the go-to expert for conversations on aligned leadership, outcome delegation, and sustainable growth. She brings wit, warmth, and real-world wisdom to mission-driven founders, visionary CEOs, and changemakers who want more clarity, more joy, and more results. Highlighting actionable strategies, Sarah shares how life events pushed her to streamline her business, leverage systems, and block her calendar to protect her time. The conversation covers techniques for eliminating unnecessary tasks, designing flexible schedules, maximizing your energy, and understanding the diminishing returns of overwork. You will hear about the benefits of iterative planning, focusing on key business categories, and revisiting strategy every two months to keep operations lean. Ready to rethink your work-life balance and create more space for joy? Start your journey toward simplicity, fulfillment, and time freedom today! "You get to design your business within whatever constraints you want to put in place." -Sarah Olivieri In this episode, we explore: Links: Website: saraholivieri.com, inspirednonprofitleadership.com, pivotground.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarah-olivieri YouTube:youtube.com/@PivotGround Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

What if scaling your business actually gave you more personal freedom, fulfillment, and energy? Are you wondering how to balance your own growth with your business needs? Curious about becoming the visionary leader your next chapter requires? In this episode, I share my approach to sustainable scaling, focusing on both practical strategies and personal alignment. I talk about defining your rich, fulfilled life, understanding where your needs and your business's needs overlap, and how to set up the support that keeps you focused on what you love. I also open up about how working through inner blocks and stepping into a new way of being is just as important as changing your systems or team. If you're ready to scale your business in a way that genuinely fits who you are and where you want to go, I invite you to explore the next round of Simplify to Scale. Let's make your vision for a rich, fulfilling business a reality together. In this episode, I explore: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

How do you define success for yourself in business and life? What does it take to create an aligned company that truly fits who you are? How can your energy shape your next chapter? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Natalie Cutsforth to explore the journey of simplifying to scale and making authentic choices in your work. She is a clairvoyant shamanic reader, healer, mentor, and author. She has channeled over 6,000 private sessions worldwide, helping clients release blocks, reclaim their power, and align with their soul's calling. Natalie shares her transition from a fast-paced corporate career to building a soul-aligned business, highlighting the importance of tuning into mind, body, heart, and spirit when making decisions. Through the thoughtful discussion, you'll learn why success measures should be self-defined, how external pressures can lead to misaligned business models, and why inner work is as important as strategies and systems. Natalie offers practical tools for checking in with your inner guidance, shares her unique approach using a "spiritual board of directors," and discusses how doing the internal work strengthens your ability to handle life's big moments. If you're ready to create a business that feels truly fulfilling, this episode is packed with actionable ideas. Tune in now and take your next step toward a richer, more meaningful direction. In this episode, we explore: Links Website:www.nataliecutsforth.comWorkshopswww.nataliecutsforth.com/workshopswww.instagram.com/followthedivinemysterywww.linkedin.com/in/nataliecutsforthwww.facebook.com/Follow.the.Divine.Mystery.with.Natalie.Cutsforth Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

How will small business teams transform by 2026? What new roles are set to shape the future? How can you stay ahead of massive change rather than react to it? In this visionary episode, I explore how rapid shifts in technology, especially AI, are restructuring the core of small businesses. Drawing from decades of experience scaling both startups and Fortune 500 companies, I share why the business models most entrepreneurs rely on are about to get a fundamental overhaul. I look beyond tactical conversations and offer a fresh perspective on the new landscape, revealing why adaptability in strategic thinking is the real superpower of tomorrow's small business leaders. Hear stories from high-tech transformations, including my firsthand experience with self-driving cars and what they signal for how we'll collaborate, work, and serve clients going forward. If you're curious about where small business is heading and how to thrive as roles evolve, now is the time to invest in how you think. Join me in up-leveling your strategic mindset and prepare to orchestrate lasting impact in 2026 and beyond. In this episode, I explore: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Have you ever wondered how to plan for a thriving year in your business? Do you know what future casting is and how it can impact your growth? Are you hiring the right people to help your business grow? In this episode, I invite you behind the scenes of my strategic planning retreat, sharing powerful strategies to set your vision for the next decade, reflect on big milestones, and map out actionable steps for the coming year. I reveal how future casting helps you reimagine your goals and spot next steps you might not have considered, along with practical advice for building a strong support structure. If you're thinking about growing your team, I share how to identify and hire at the strategic execution level, so your business isn't just checking boxes but actually achieving real outcomes. Ready to take your planning further? You can catch the replay of the strategic planning workshop by joining SOL Collective or sign up for the Scale Smarter, Not Harder interactive workshop to ask your questions live and uplevel your strategy. Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and if you enjoyed the show, I would love if you leave a rating or review to help even more businesses scale with confidence! In this episode, I break down: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Have you ever wondered what really makes a team thrive? Do you know who might be your weakest link right now? Are you curious about how one team member's performance can ripple across the entire business? In this episode, I share my personal experience on the impact that every team member brings to the table and why focusing on your team's strength is key as we gear up for 2026. I walk through a candid story about bringing on a new team member who seemed perfect on paper but silently affected everyone's performance and focus. Together, we explore how even the most well-intentioned support from your team can lower productivity and results when someone isn't performing at their best. I talk about the importance of regularly reviewing each member, investing in development, and getting real about who truly fits your evolving business needs. If you're ready to level up your team and set yourself up for success in the new year, check out my training and mentoring programs. Reach out if you want personalized support for yourself or your team. Let's make sure your business is primed to scale with the right people on board! In this episode, I explore: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you ready to shape your business for 2026 and beyond? Wondering how human connection and strategic thinking will help you stand out in a market filled with automation? Curious about practical ways to build resilience and nurture your team's success? In this episode, I share the latest trends and predictions for entrepreneurs looking to scale sustainably. Together, we discover why personalized touches matter more than ever, how transformation wins over simple transactions, and which strategies will help you create loyal clients and innovative teams. You will learn why building strong cash and energetic reserves for yourself and your team is essential for weathering uncertainty, and how the power of relationships can truly elevate your business. If you're inspired to transform your business, join me in the Soul Collective community or explore our certification programs. Connect with me for workshops and ongoing support to strategically scale your business. Subscribe for more insights and leave a review to help others grow their businesses with intention. Let's work together to make 2026 your most fulfilling year yet! Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you wondering how to find the perfect marketing agency for your business? Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the countless options and unsure whether to build your marketing team in-house or outsource it? Curious about which strategies and trends will set you up for success as you scale? This episode brings you insights from a marketing connector who has evaluated over a thousand agencies to help companies make the right choices. Today I am joined by Behdad Jamshidi who started CJAM The Marketing Connector after realizing that most companies don't know how to evaluate the value of a marketing agency or assess their own needs. Since every business is different not only in their needs but where they are at in the growth process, it isn't a one size fits all. We break down the key differences between boutique and specialized agencies, the importance of strategy before execution, and how new technologies like AI are shaping the marketing landscape. You'll learn five actionable points: why company size matters when choosing an agency, the value of vetting more partners, the need for strong systems and processes, the significance of strategy, and how to spot the top performing 1% or 2% of agencies. We also discuss when to bring talent in-house and share tips to avoid common mistakes. If you want to level up your marketing game and scale smarter, not harder, this episode is for you. Tune in, share with a fellow founder, and start vetting your next marketing partner with clarity and confidence! In this episode, we explore: "Just to find one good marketing agency, it takes three to five tries for a business to figure that out. - Behdad Jamshi Links: https://cjammarketing.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/behdadjamshidi/ https://www.instagram.com/themarketingconnector_/ Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you ready to scale your business in 2026 but wondering what will truly set you apart? Are you curious how AI and lean teams are impacting small business growth? Thinking about the power of connection and community for next-level success? In this episode, I share my top trends and predictions for the new year, focusing on practical ways to simplify and scale a business you love. We explore why being lean and agile is more important than ever, how AI integration is reshaping teams, and why strategic partnerships and communities are driving growth. I dive deep into the growing impact of emotional resonance and storytelling in your brand, and the new direction for educational content that actually drives results. You'll also hear insights on personal brand building and staying adaptive in a year full of experimentation. In this episode, I discuss: Want to set yourself up for success and scale smarter next year? Join me for Propel 26, the virtual strategic planning retreat, and get your personalized roadmap for a thriving 2026. Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you ready to set your business up for a successful new year? Are you curious about the best way to tackle planning in times of uncertainty? Do you want to feel confident about the direction your business is heading? In this episode, I break down how planning needs to adapt based on your current season of business, especially when you're working through experimentation and unpredictability. I introduce my Lean Strategic Planning Framework, which combines visionary, strategic, and just in time planning to help you stay agile and aligned. You'll learn how to create a high-level roadmap for your year without getting bogged down in unnecessary details. I share actionable tips for integrating monthly, weekly, and daily check-ins to move your business forward, while avoiding overwhelm and wasted effort. Plus, I highlight a powerful metric that can simplify decisions and guide your next steps. If you're ready to plan for a wildly successful 2026 and want ongoing support, I invite you to join my One Day Strategic Planning Retreat and become part of a dynamic community. Let's make next year your best one yet! In this episode, I discuss: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

How would your business transform if every team member made aligned decisions without needing constant oversight? What if your offers, operations, and goals worked together seamlessly? Are you ready to discover guiding principles that drive consistent growth and fulfillment every year? In this episode, I highlight the foundation of success and scaling through thoughtfully crafted guiding principles for 2026. You'll hear how extraordinary excellence, exceptional quality, elite client experience, embodying your next-level business, and a "right fit or no fit" approach shape every decision and interaction in my business. I share real-world examples from our planning, collaboration, and leadership practices, and explain why setting these principles alongside your goals and vision can energize and align your entire team. Ready to set your business up for success in the new year? Explore how applying these guiding principles can create laser focus and model integrity for both you and your team. Join me for an upcoming planning retreat or workshop to get your roadmap for 2026 and connect your vision to actionable strategies. Let's simplify to scale together! In this episode I discuss how: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Have you been holding on to practices, offers, or even identities that no longer serve you? What if letting go could be the key to growing your business? Are you ready to embrace transformation on your entrepreneurial journey? In this episode, I share heartfelt stories and reflections about the power of endings and the beauty of stepping into a new era, both in business and personal life. I explore how true transformation requires not just strategic tools and planning, but also an honest look at what needs to end to make space for new beginnings. Through personal experiences of letting go, like moving on from old roles, environments, and even long-standing relationships, I highlight how fully embracing closure can set the stage for genuine growth and fulfillment. I invite you to acknowledge the impact of open tabs in your lives and make room for evolution, both as a leader and as a person. Ready to step boldly into your next chapter? Reflect on what you might need to close or release as you look towards the new year. Grab your favorite journal, listen in, and join me in this meaningful conversation about making space for new opportunities. Let this episode be your gentle nudge to welcome transformation In this episode, I discuss: If you want guidance on mapping out the plan that will bring your vision to reality in 2026, doors are now open to our Propel '26 1-day virtual planning retreat. Visit https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/retreat to learn more. Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

How can you transform your operations team from a cost center to a powerful profit driver? What does it take to create a truly lean business that thrives in today's unpredictable market? Have you ever wondered how your team structure impacts your growth and sustainability? In this episode, I share my insights on shifting the mindset and approach to operational roles within small businesses. I explain why every team member should be directly or strategically connected to growth, retention, or increased profitability, and introduce the Lean Dream Team Pyramid as a game-changer for building a sustainable business. I emphasize the importance of hiring at the strategic execution level rather than the execution level, especially as AI and automation take on more routine tasks. I break down how to identify and eliminate waste, streamline processes, and optimize what's already working. Wanting every operational role to contribute directly to profit, I deliver practical tips for turning routine activities into measurable business outcomes. If you're ready to rethink your operations and want your team to be real drivers of profit, don't miss this episode. Give it a listen, take notes, and consider tuning in twice to catch all the valuable strategies I share and discover how your business can achieve sustainable and scalable growth! In this episode I discuss: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren't dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let's start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you striving to hit your first million in business but worried about burnout? Curious how to stand out and scale sustainably, even in today’s crowded digital space? Wondering what high-leverage actions will actually move the needle? In this episode of the Simplify to Scale show, I sit down with Julie Chenell to unpack real-life strategies for building a million-dollar brand without losing your momentum or sanity. Julie is a digital marketing expert and coach, helping companies use growth hacking strategies and marketing tools to navigate the fast-paced & ever-changing landscape of digital marketing. She shares her refreshingly honest perspective on focusing relentlessly on solving specific, urgent, and painful problems, and what customers truly seek. You will get actionable advice on narrowing down to one high-impact activity, the value of relentless focus, and how to avoid burning out by ignoring distractions and tying every task back to revenue. Julie also gives a sneak peek into her new book, Million Dollar Grit, highlighting the lessons that helped her scale, and stay resilient, through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Inspired to simplify and scale your own business? Listen to the entire episode and don’t miss out on new episodes each week filled with wisdom that will help you grow smarter and thrive. “You have to make the pond small enough that you can be the biggest fish.” -Julie Chenell In this episode, we discuss: Links: https://juliechenell.com https://www.facebook.com/juliechenellofficial https://www.instagram.com/juliecchenell Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren’t dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

What does it really take to set a vision for the new year? How do you make confident decisions for your business in Q4? Are you ready to align your goals with what truly matters to you? In this episode, I share insights on visionary planning and strategic action, inspired by major shifts in my own life and business. From reflecting deeply on your goals to navigating transitions, I reveal why it’s important to create a supportive environment and team as you enter the new year. You’ll hear how distinguishing between possibility-focused conversations and practicality can protect your vision and energize your team, setting the stage for achieving your big goals. If this episode gave you some helpful ideas, subscribe, share a review, and explore the resources at strategicopsinstitute.com to scale smarter, not harder. I’m excited to help you make next year your most fulfilling and successful yet! In this episode, I discuss: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren’t dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.

Are you ready to stand out in a crowded market? Wondering how to truly differentiate your business and amplify your results as you scale? Curious about how to blend strategic leadership with AI innovation and authentic positioning? In this episode, I share the three most important focus areas for scaling your business in the upcoming year: strategic leadership, AI enablement, and signature positioning. I walk you through how each area impacts your growth and the growth of your clients, uncovering why so many businesses sound the same and how to make your services unmistakably unique. I also share how to integrate AI thoughtfully without losing your distinctive voice, and why strategy, not just tactics, will set you apart as the guide your clients need most. If you’re ready to simplify your approach, power up your positioning, and deliver incredible value, this is the episode for you! In this episode, I discuss: Ready to get out of the day-to-day operations of your business? A SOL (Strategy + Operations Leader) is the missing link between your vision and results that aren’t dependent on you! Certify your existing right-hand or get support in hiring the right person: https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/sol Looking to go deeper and learn how to scale your business sustainably? SIMPLIFY TO SCALE will help you to reclaim your time, increase your impact and profit, and simplify your business as you scale to multiple-7 figures and beyond so you finally get to enjoy the success you worked so hard to achieve. Find out more at: https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale Ready to become a strategic leader who understands how to balance sustainable and scalable growth with operational efficiency? Join our SOL Collective, an elite and private community for Business Strategists and Operational Leaders who advise and support founders in scaling their businesses. Learn more at https://www.strategicopsinstitute.com/collective Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation. If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.