Lean Out Your Business Podcast

The Lean Out Your Business Podcast is dedicated to helping you accelerate business growth, simplify in order to scale, and lean out and do less to achieve more. Join International Lean Business Consultant, Business Coach, and Serial Entrepreneur Crista Grasso to discover the proven systems and strategies that provide more value to your clients, more profits for your business, and give you back more time in your day.

E202 | Knowing When to Let a Team Member Go 11/12/2024

E202 | Knowing When to Let a Team Member Go Ever struggled with knowing when it’s time to let a team member go? If you’re constantly questioning it, you might already have your answer. In this episode, I share insights from a recent conference where I led a workshop on growing your business sustainably (without burning out). During the workshop, someone asked about knowing the right time to part ways with a team member. My answer? If you’re already wondering, it might be time. I also emphasize how important it is for team members to bring a sense of relief, not stress. Alignment is also key, so I encourage business owners to listen to their instincts and consider if their team truly supports their future vision. Additionally, I share tips on how to help great employees grow, and when it’s best to make hard choices with those who may be holding you back. If you’re thinking about making changes in your team or want to be ready for success in the new year, this episode is for you. In this episode, I discuss: Identifying the right time to let someone go How to make the decision without overthinking Balancing loyalty with business success and scale How to best support the person you need to let go Preparing your team for next-level growth Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33821994

E201 | From Vision to Reality: Planning for a Successful New Year 11/05/2024

E201 | From Vision to Reality: Planning for a Successful New Year Are you set up for a successful new year? Ending the year strong isn’t just about closing this chapter but setting the tone for the next one. In this episode of the Lean Out Your Business podcast, I discuss actionable steps to wrap up the year successfully and set the right foundation for the upcoming year. I guide you on how you can optimize your time, evaluate business activities, and get ready to hit the ground running in the new year. Learn how to objectively take a closer look at your business practices, investments, and the individual roles within your business. And of course, I discuss best practices for planning ahead, and how to make sure your vision is grounded in practical and actionable goals. I also share how having the right people, systems, tools, and automations can support your goals and why measuring progress is vital to ensuring progress. In this episode, I dive into planning for a successful finish to this year and start to next year including: Clarifying next year's vision and goals Clearing out what doesn’t serve you How to avoid overworking in the new year Setting up the right systems and team to support you Maximizing end-of-year $ opportunities Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit . /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33668062

E200 | Scaling in the New Era with Kim Woods 10/29/2024

E200 | Scaling in the New Era with Kim Woods Ready to better align your business growth with personal growth in the new year? Scaling in 2025 looks different than prior years. It is a new era and requires a new approach. That's where Kim Woods comes in! Kim and I teamed up recently in Colorado to deliver a keynote that blends her unique astrology-driven strategies and "knowing, liking, and trusting" yourself with my “simplify, sustain, scale” model. Kim Woods is a master astrologer and business strategist and she is all about combining astrology with modern business strategies. Kim explains how astrology has influenced important tools like Carl Jung's work and the Myers-Briggs personality test. She also shares details about her popular 12-question quiz, which has been taken by 22,000 people to help understand different decision-making styles. Kim’s method blends masculine and feminine energies, making her strategies pragmatic for today’s fast-changing business world. She highlights the power of self-awareness and building real connections, rather than relying on automated systems, to achieve business success. We also discuss how our approaches, "know, like, trust" and "simplify, sustain, scale," are coming together in a new live event focused on making big business moves. "It's crucial to balance innovative ideas with practical implementation. That's where true growth happens." - Kim Woods Tune in to this week's episode of the Lean Out Your Business Podcast - our 200th episode! - where Kim and I merge insightful ideas and practical steps to help businesses thrive and scale in the new era including: How "know, like, trust" helps you to "simplify, sustain, scale" Balancing structure with flexibility in business planning Impact of astrological insights on effective business moves Practical steps for staying adaptable in 2025 What it looks like to successfully scale in the new era Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit . /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33632337

E199 | The Future of Operations in 2025 10/22/2024

E199 | The Future of Operations in 2025 Is your business ready for success and scale in 2025? As you look at what it will take make your big bold vision and goals a reality in the new year, there are some key things to consider. Not only has the way we market and sell shifted, but the way our business operates needs to shift as well. Things that were a nice-to-have in prior years are now a bare minimum for success. In this episode, I'm excited to celebrate the launch of my new brand, the Strategic Ops Institute, and share some important insights on the future of business operations. I talk about key market changes and how AI is playing a big role in transforming the way we work. It’s not just a competitive advantage anymore—AI is something businesses must use to grow and run more efficiently. I explore why strategic planning is so important, how we need to balance innovation with steady growth, and why it's essential to connect marketing with operations. I introduce my S.P.S.T.I Framework, Strategy, Planning, Systems, Team, and Insight—which is the foundation for scaling a business in a simple and sustainable way. In this episode, I dive into what I see as the future of operations and scaling success for small businesses including: The role AI plays in scalable and sustainable growth in 2025 The critical integration of marketing and operations Balancing short-term wins with long-term sustainability How the way we build out our team is changing The top 3 changes that impact your operations Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33503992

E198 | The 2 Things You Need for Sustainable Scaling 10/15/2024

E198 | The 2 Things You Need for Sustainable Scaling Do your business results ever leave you feeling like you're on a roller coaster? You want to create a stable and predictable business that avoids burnout and minimizes constant stress. So how do you scale your business without burning out? In this episode, I explore the concept of sustainable scaling and break down the two key components of building a business that grows without leading to burnout: sustainable results and a sustainable pace. I discuss how many entrepreneurs get caught up chasing what's "new"—new ideas, tools, or strategies—that may offer short-term wins but don't create lasting stability. I also highlight the importance of maintaining a sustainable pace in business operations. While periods of intense work, like during a launch, are sometimes necessary, it's crucial to recognize when these bursts of effort become the norm rather than the exception. Whether it's systematizing processes to eliminate redundancy or ensuring tasks align with your zone of genius, finding a sustainable rhythm is essential for you and your team. In this week's episode of the Lean Out Your Business Podcast, I share the two key elements to do so successfully including: Why consistency is key when you want lasting results How chasing new ideas can sabotage your scaling efforts The importance of a sustainable work pace for both you and your team Why a predictable business model leads to long-term success Practical tips on planning and systems to support sustainable scaling Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33391667

E197 | Why Client Experience Is Critical with Kim Breiland 10/08/2024

E197 | Why Client Experience Is Critical with Kim Breiland Why is it important for businesses to block out distractions and focus on what really matters, especially in today’s tough market? Providing an exceptional client experience isn't just about what you deliver, but how you make your clients feel throughout their journey with you. In this week's episode of the Lean Out Your Business Podcast, I am joined by Kim Breiland, a customer experience expert and creator of The Customer Experience Formula™. Kim specializes in helping entrepreneurs and small business owners grow their businesses without burning out. We explore it’s crucial for businesses to avoid distractions and focus on the essentials. Kim shares her story, including her background in psychology and customer service at Princeton University, stressing that businesses need to offer not just good products but also great customer experiences. She explains key moments for keeping clients engaged and the risks of ignoring customers after they’ve made a purchase. Kim also gives practical tips, like adding a personal touch to business interactions, making sure the customer experience is smooth, and gathering regular feedback to make clients feel heard. Her advice, backed by her certifications in neuroplasticity, offers a well-rounded approach to balancing both emotional and business needs. "Retaining clients should be as much a priority as acquiring new ones. Both are key to improving profit margins." - Kim Breiland Kim shares the critical role client experience plays in business success including: How personal interactions can improve client satisfaction How to implement effective feedback loops How to evolve your client experience in line with market changes Ensuring each customer interaction is positive and impactful Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33321542

E196 | Operational Mistakes That Prevent Sustainable Scaling 10/01/2024

E196 | Operational Mistakes That Prevent Sustainable Scaling How have the operational areas of your business impacted your overall results? How do you balance staying engaged with your business's strategy while delegating operational tasks? Have you encountered any issues with completely delegating without oversight? In this episode, I talk about the challenges of growing a business in a sustainable way, especially when it comes to operations. I highlight common mistakes founders make, like only addressing operational issues during a crisis or hiring the wrong people. I also discuss how important it is to make operations a key part of the business from the start and how to avoid these mistakes for better efficiency and smoother growth. One of the most common hiccups I see in businesses trying to scale is treating operations as a backend chore instead of an integral part of the business. This often leads to avoidable issues eating up valuable time and resources. In this episode of the Lean Out Your Business Podcast, I tackle these critical operational mistakes head-on: Importance of integrated operations for business success Risks of undertrained operational staff Strategies for proactively preparing for growth Balancing simplicity with necessary documentation Ensuring operations align with your growth strategy Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit . /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33231497

E195 | Strategies for Short-Term Cash Flow That Work Right Now 09/24/2024

E195 | Strategies for Short-Term Cash Flow That Work Right Now How do you manage to avoid the "revenue roller coaster” in your business and what strategies have you found to be most effective for both immediate and future growth? As we enter the last 3 months of the year and come out of summer, you may be looking to generate some short-term cash flow to make up for slower summer revenue or to hit your financial targets for the year. Balancing urgent cash flow needs with long-term growth can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I dive into actionable strategies for driving short-term cash flow and outline twelve high-impact strategies such as leveraging VIP days, offering referral incentives, and introducing payment plans for higher-ticket offers. Each strategy is designed to help entrepreneurs not only boost their revenue in the short term but also lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth in the new year. I also emphasize the importance of balancing short-term cash flow with long-term sustainable strategies to avoid the dreaded "revenue roller coaster." I share personal experiences and practical examples, including my own successful methodologies within the program. The episode is packed with insightful tips tailored for tackling urgent financial goals while keeping an eye on future stability. In this week's episode of the Lean Out Your Business Podcast, I share strategies for short-term cash flow that are working right now including: Simple yet powerful promotional strategies for quick wins Tips for creating high-value offers that convert well How to tap into unmet needs in the market Streamlining efforts to maximize efficiency and profit Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33130557

E194 | Bridging Marketing and Operations for Sustainable Growth 09/17/2024

E194 | Bridging Marketing and Operations for Sustainable Growth Ever find yourself so focused on marketing and growth that your backend operations and ability to keep up falls apart... or putting so much focus on running efficient operations that your sales pipeline ends up empty? Balancing how much you focus on marketing and operations can be tricky. Ignoring one for the other could spell disaster and lead to “emergency panic marketing” or an all-hands-on-deck operational recovery. Neither are ideal. Welcome back to another episode of The Crista and Annie Show! In this episode, we take a deep dive into the balance between marketing and operations for sustainable business growth. Both areas are crucial, yet they often compete for a business owner's attention. Drawing from our personal experiences and client stories, we highlight the pitfalls and offer practical advice on how to align these two critical business areas. I emphasize the importance of investing in cost-effective tools and automation to boost profitability, while Annie reveals how to spot blind spots and tap into existing customer relationships for quick revenue growth. Together, we also discuss why reviewing systems and running efficient marketing campaigns is essential before diving into any major rebranding effort. Additionally, we touch on the dangers of rewarding "noisy" marketing tactics that often lead to inefficiencies, instead advocating for lean and intentional strategies in both marketing and operations. We dive into the common pitfalls and practical solutions to ensure both aspects work together cohesively to drive success, including: Balancing focus between marketing and operations in different seasons of growth Managing your client pipeline effectively to avoid feast or famine Giving yourself permission to ditch misaligned marketing approaches Ensuring you don't lose your brand experience when improving operational efficiency Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/33006402

E193 | Identifying the Best Right-Hand Person for Your Business Growth 09/10/2024

E193 | Identifying the Best Right-Hand Person for Your Business Growth Are you making the most of your right-hand person in your business? Your right-hand person isn’t just a support role; they’re your strategic partner, crucial for bringing your business vision to life. Think of them as the bridge between where you are now and where you want your business to go. But how do you find the right fit person? And once you do, how do you communicate effectively to avoid frustration and unproductive interactions? In this episode of the Lean Out Your Business podcast, I dive into why having a capable right-hand person is essential for your business success and which type of right-hand you need at different stages of your business journey. Drawing from personal experience, I clarify the distinct roles of a VA, an ePM, and a CSOO, highlighting how each can help optimize operations and enhance productivity. I also emphasize the importance of having that right-hand individual who can seamlessly blend vision with practicality, ensuring that bold ideas are executed in a sustainable way. Throughout the episode, I provide valuable tips on working effectively with your right-hand, from setting the right tone for communication to establishing a framework for successful collaboration. In this episode, I discuss: The most critical skill any right-hand person needs to have Building the bridge between vision and results Importance of aligning communication styles Deciding who is the best fit based on your stage of business Why your business may need a CSOO to achieve your next level Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32815752

E192 | Building an Internal Company Knowledge Base with Alyson Caffrey 09/03/2024

E192 | Building an Internal Company Knowledge Base with Alyson Caffrey Ever feel like you're the only one who can do certain things in your business? This can keep you trapped in the day to day and keep your business from running like a well-oiled machine. What if you could shift that by systematizing your operations and building a knowledge base? In this episode of the Lean Out Your Business podcast, I sit down with operations strategist and best-selling author Alyson Caffrey to discuss streamlining business processes for growth. She emphasizes the importance of developing a "company knowledge base" to ensure consistent and efficient operations, which is especially crucial for remote teams. Alyson is committed to using her experience growing businesses and streamlining operations to help 'parentpreneurs' kid-proof their businesses and live family-focused lives. We explore the need for clear roles, structured processes, and a simplified approach to avoid the pitfalls of scaling complexity. Alyson introduces the concept of "operation simplified," emphasizing the importance of fixing issues as they arise and having a solid maintenance plan in place. Tune in for insights on optimizing operations and achieving a joyful, scalable business. “Structure in your business operations isn’t restrictive. It gives you the freedom to focus on what truly matters.” - - Alyson Caffrey In this episode, Alyson and I dive into how systematizing operations can drive growth, create consistency, and ultimately give you the freedom you're looking for as a business owner, including: - The importance of a company knowledge base - Why structure leads to more freedom - Overcoming resistance to systematization - How to attract & retain top talent - The benefits of saying 'no' more often - How time off is crucial for growth Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32784452

E191 | BTS Architecting an 8-Figure Brand 08/27/2024

E191 | BTS Architecting an 8-Figure Brand Want to set up your business for massive success as we transition from Summer into Fall? I'm seeing many businesses in different states right now - some riding a high, others slowing down and trying to figure out how to pick things back up. Whichever state you're in, it's an interesting time to reflect and really think intentionally about what you want your business to look like in its next evolution of success and scale. This is what I am doing as I'm launching my newest brand, Strategic Ops Institute. I'm architecting it differently from prior businesses, strategically planning from day one for it to become an 8-figure business. This is shaping the decisions I am making and how I am building my vision in a simple and streamlined way. In this special episode, I am inviting you in the backstage of architecting an 8-figure brand! I discuss how my past experiences have shaped my current business strategies and decisions. If you're ready to reimagine your business and align it with your ultimate vision, this episode is a must-listen! Step into a world of possibilities and gain insights into building a brand that thrives. In this episode, I share how I'm setting up this new venture, and how you can apply a similar thought process to scale your business seamlessly including: Architecting a multi-7 or 8-figure brand from where you are today Recognizing market gaps and growth opportunities to leverage Slowing down to speed up and when you need to Building the bridge between today's reality and your future vision Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32672302

E190 | Aligning Your Business with Your Soul Language with Jennifer Urezzio 08/20/2024

E190 | Aligning Your Business with Your Soul Language with Jennifer Urezzio Are you truly aligned with your purpose or just going through the motions in your business? There is a big difference between leading a business that feels fully aligned and one that doesn't. An aligned business feels light and freeing, while a misaligned one feels heavy and frustrating. So how do you get into alignment? In this episode of the Lean Out Your Business podcast, I was joined by Jennifer Urezzio, the founder of Soul Language. We discussed her special approach to helping entrepreneurs connect with their true selves and align that with their business. She introduces the idea of Soul Language, which focuses on three key energies: your mission, how you support that mission, and your soulful personality. Jennifer highlights how important it is to understand these energies to build a business that truly reflects who you are and connects with your clients. She also shares how entrepreneurs can check if their business is in line with their core values. Jennifer provides practical exercises to help shift your mindset from focusing on problems to finding solutions, offering clear steps to realign your business. Additionally, she talks about common challenges like being inconsistent or fearing sales and advises on overcoming these issues by being authentic and using insights from Soul Language. If you're intrigued by how understanding your soul language can transform your business and personal growth, you won't want to miss this episode. "Your business starts and ends with you and what you put into it. Look within to solve why your business isn’t successful." - Jennifer Urezzio In this episode, you’ll discover: - How to identify your soul's mission - Understanding your business’ unique soul language - Simple steps to get back in alignment - How to put consciousness behind business decisions Links: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32566952

E189 | How Relearning Past Lessons Can Propel Your Business Forward 08/13/2024

E189 | How Relearning Past Lessons Can Propel Your Business Forward What was the catalyst for starting your business? Did you find yourself having to learn a tough lesson or overcome something yourself that you are now passionate about helping others with? As entrepreneurs, we often share what we most needed to learn ourselves to get to where we are today. But there is a myth that once we've mastered something, we are done with the lessons. The reality is that we often need to revisit and relearn those lessons again, sometimes when we least expect it. This can cause feelings of imposter syndrome and self-doubt when you find yourself re-experiencing the very thing you help your clients with and are considered an expert at. But relearning past lessons can also be the push needed to propel your business forward and I think it's time we normalize the natural cycles of relearning that occur, even to the most seasoned experts, instead of hiding them. In this episode, I explore the ongoing journey of learning and relearning essential lessons as an entrepreneur. I share my own experiences of overcommitting and overworking even though I'm an expert in scaling businesses (without the burnout). I also highlight how recognizing and addressing recurring challenges with refreshed strategies can significantly impact your business's growth and sustainability including: Early recognition when you're falling into old patterns How to move quickly through a period of relearning How to leverage your experiences to improve client results Tools and frameworks to stay focused and avoid overcommitting Strategies to prevent burnout and maintain high performance Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32498252

E188 | How to Sign Bigger B2B Deals with Laura Khalil 08/06/2024

E188 | How to Sign Bigger B2B Deals with Laura Khalil How can you overcome limiting beliefs and gain the confidence to land big B2B contracts? What specific strategies can consultants use to build relationships and trust within a large corporation to secure bigger deals? What steps are involved in determining and implementing value-based pricing? In this exciting episode, I sit down with Laura Khalil, a sales and marketing advisor who has spent the last seven years helping service providers sign B2B clients with contracts ranging from $50,000 to $350,000. Today, she pulls back the curtain to help others go after that “big deal energy”. Laura shares with us how to be proactive, build a network of supporters, and not rely solely on referrals. The conversation dives into the differences between working with small businesses and large corporations, emphasizing the importance of value-based pricing and maintaining strong client relationships. She also offers practical advice, such as using the guiding question, "Does it make the boat go faster?" and shares essential tips for securing testimonials, writing case studies, and identifying new prospects within client organizations to continually grow your business. Don't miss this profound and insightful episode if you're eager to elevate your consulting business and secure bigger deals with large companies. “It's just as hard to get a $5,000 contract as it is to get a $500,000 contract. There's not much difference in the process.” - Laura Khalil We discuss practical strategies for working with large companies and landing larger, more lucrative contracts including: - How to position your value to large corporations - What to do and what not to do when pricing contracts - How to strategically leverage testimonials and case studies - Balancing client work with business growth activities Links: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32392437

E187 | Improving Client Results & Retention in a Changing Market 07/30/2024

E187 | Improving Client Results & Retention in a Changing Market What steps can you take to better understand your client's current challenges and constraints? How can businesses leverage AI to support their clients better and streamline their operations? As you shift your business to adapt to market changes, are you also shifting how you support your clients to achieve successful results? As buying behaviors change and economic constraints tighten, many business owners are grappling with new challenges. I discuss how small businesses, compared to their larger counterparts, are struggling with slower revenue streams and tighter budgets, making them less agile than before. Through insightful analogies and real-life examples, I highlight the importance of adapting your services and products to meet the current needs of your clients. If market changes are impacting your business (or businesses around you), they are impacting your clients' as well. You may have worked on changing your offers, marketing, and messaging to increase conversions, which is great... but what happens after a new client says 'yes'? Will they still be able to achieve results in the same way they would have a year or two ago? The reality is that most people have even more on their plate now than they did before. Their time is more limited, their budgets are tighter, and their focus may be non-existent. This impacts much more than their buying decisions - It impacts their ability to show up and take action, the rate at which they implement, and their ability to achieve results. This in turn impacts your likelihood for retention and referrals. No matter how incredible your programs or services are (and I am sure they are really incredible!)...The way you deliver them may need to shift to better support the challenges and constraints your clients are currently experiencing. In this week's episode, I dive into how current and future market changes impact the way your clients achieve results and practical things you can do to set them up for success including: How to adapt your services to current client needs The impact of market changes on small businesses Strategies for helping clients achieve results with limited resources Streamlining your client experience for better results The key takeaway is that businesses need to be mindful of their clients' new realities and find ways to deliver results with less effort on their clients' part. Don’t miss this episode to learn actionable strategies to refine your client offerings and improve retention despite market challenges. Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32277267

E186 | Cooking Up a Marketing Strategy That Works with Iris Goldfeder 07/23/2024

E186 | Cooking Up a Marketing Strategy That Works with Iris Goldfeder Do you sometimes wonder if your marketing efforts are worth the time and money you're investing? It's common to question whether our strategies are hitting the mark or just burning through resources. In this episode, I am joined by marketing expert Iris Goldfeder, to dive deep into effective marketing strategies that actually work, especially during challenging economic times! Iris Goldfeder is the founder of GasStoveCreative, a marketing agency that delivers completely custom, full-service marketing strategies. As a chef for over 10 years, she learned that in order to create delicious food, you need the right recipe, and also a splash of creativity. After 25 years in the marketing field, she's come to realize that the same thing is true for your marketing strategy. In this interview, Iris highlights the importance of truly listening to clients, understanding their needs, and not cutting back on marketing. We discuss common marketing mistakes and the importance of professional help for better results. We also explore the changing world of SEO and AI, emphasizing the unique value of human expertise. Iris stresses the need for the right systems and a heartfelt approach to build strong connections and grow your business. If you’re looking to enhance your marketing strategy and business operations, you don't want to miss this episode! "Building strong connections through marketing takes time and consistency." - Iris Goldfeder In this episode we explore: - Benefits of a heart-centered business approach - Knowing when to hire a Marketing Pro vs. DIY - Balancing growth and marketing optimization - The impact of video in building trust - Why immediate results don't always happen Links: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32214797

E185 | Overcoming Unsustainable Business Practices 07/16/2024

E185 | Overcoming Unsustainable Business Practices How can businesses ensure they are scaling the right aspects of their operations rather than just amplifying existing problems? Why is it crucial to reduce uncertainty before scaling a product or service? And what are some effective ways to create and implement systems and processes before scaling? In this episode, I explore an important topic: what doesn't scale. I start by highlighting the need to simplify and streamline business processes before scaling to avoid making existing problems worse. I cover the different stages of a business, from just starting out to growing, and how not addressing uncertainty at any stage can end up causing issues in the long run. I also talk about the disadvantages of relying too much on certain individuals to fix problems, as this can stop the business from growing sustainably. Through real-world examples and proven strategies, I show why having clear systems and processes is crucial for smooth operations. I emphasize the importance of focusing on strategic vision instead of getting stuck on everyday tasks. Listen in to get practical tips and learn how to use AI to streamline and automate your operations. In this episode, you’ll discover: The 3 things most businesses do that don't scale Why you're stuck on the hustle hamster wheel What's needed for sustainable scaling Which stages of business support scaling & which don't What's needed for sustainable scaling Join my mailing list to receive the workbook for this episode and all solo episode to get the most out of your listening! Sign up at Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32070842

E184 | Simplifying How to Sell High Ticket Offers with Jeannie Spiro 07/09/2024

E184 | Simplifying How to Sell High Ticket Offers with Jeannie Spiro Are you finding it tough to sell your high-ticket offers? Let’s simplify the process together! In this episode, I sit down with business and sales strategist Jeannie Spiro to explore effective strategies for women entrepreneurs aiming to boost their revenue. Jeannie shares her journey of mastering copywriting and building a strong relationship with her list, which skyrocketed her business success. We discuss the evolving tactics in email marketing, live events, short sales pages, PDFs, and the value of speaking as a powerful tool to attract high-ticket clients. We also look closer at the common pitfalls of selling high-ticket offers, and emphasize the importance of validating products and avoiding assumptions. Jeannie highlights the significance of personal connections and client nurturing over massive launches and explains her simple yet efficient approach to prioritize tasks through effective delegation. We examine current trends of more in-person gatherings and changing buying habits, suggesting a balance between using technology and having personal interactions. In this episode, we explore: Effective marketing tools beyond complicated funnels The importance of live events and workshops How to nurture relationships with potential clients Strategies for 1-to-1 selling through discovery calls The shift back to in-person events for higher success “Selling high-ticket offers isn’t about complicated funnels—it’s about personal connections and genuine conversations.” - Jeannie Spiro Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/32022292

E183 | Q1 - Q2 Work Smarter Not Harder Round Up 07/02/2024

E183 | Q1 - Q2 Work Smarter Not Harder Round Up I love asking my guests the question, "How do you work smarter, not harder, and keep things lean in your business?" And I always love their responses! In this special episode, we have rounded up all the answers my guests have given to this answer so far this year. Even though a lot of the answers tend to be in the same categories, everyone has a different approach to keeping things efficient and lean. In fact, some guests really surprise me with their answers and I always find myself learning something new from these conversations. And I know for a lot of you that it's one of your favorite parts of the interviews as well! I hope this compilation inspires you to make some changes in your business and how you structure your work so that you can get more time back, get things done more efficiently, and have more space for the things that you absolutely love. Below is a listing of the guests that are featured in this roundup. If you're looking for some great value-packed things to listen to over the holiday week, catch up on past episodes with these guests that cover: Lisa Jones & Lindsay Hammond, talk about improving relationship dynamics in Jessica Sato, shares how to create change and impact in Karen Fagan, shares her expertise on using videos for more visibility in Michelle Glogovac, shares how to leverage podcast guesting for growth in Dom Farnan, blends mindfulness with business as she talks about conscious leadership in Marcia Riner, shares how to boost your profitability in Abby Herman, offers ways to lean out your content strategy in Jennifer Tamborski, shares strategies for hitting the million-dollar mark in Justine Beauregard, shares how to craft high-converting messaging in Anna Felix, shares how to grow your money smartly, safely, and significantly in Jennifer Fry, discusses how becoming a disruptor can increase your sales in Gwen Bortner, highlights operational mistakes that impact growth in Amy Collette, shares how writing a book can unleash your impact in Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31977897

E182 | Writing a Book to Unleash Your Impact with Amy Collette 06/25/2024

E182 | Writing a Book to Unleash Your Impact with Amy Collette Why do you think sharing personal experiences can be so impactful for both the writer and the reader? What are some strategies authors can use to make their book content timeless and continually engaging? In this inspiring episode I sit down with the incredible Amy Collette, a writing coach, Author, Speaker, and a crystal-clear voice for intentional change. She inspires audiences to make the kind of impact they desire by teaching them how to deeply connect through the power of story. Together, we dive deep into the significance of storytelling, highlighting its power to connect and resonate with others. Amy emphasizes the importance of clarity and structure in the book-writing process and shares practical advice on creating outlines and understanding one's audience. Our conversation also sheds light on the myth of the instant success of a book and stresses the importance of continual engagement and promotion. We dive into how to turn your book idea or already published book into a successful, impactful, and lasting piece of work, including: - The key elements of writing a successful book - How to keep your book in the spotlight long after it publishes - Using various platforms to boost visibility - Facing and overcoming fear and self-doubt - Practical steps to start or finish writing your book today Thinking about writing a book or already in the process? Tune into this episode for invaluable insights and practical advice from Amy Collette. Learn how to overcome your fear, gain clarity, and unleash your impact. Discover how to keep your book relevant and engage your audience effectively. Don’t miss out—your powerful story is waiting to make a difference! “Whether you're telling a story or whether you're listening to a story, you're having a shared experience.” - Amy Collette Links: Website: Facebook group: LinkedIn: Instagram: Free resource: Make a Ripple Guidebook: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31815942

E181 | How to Break Free from the Work Harder Mindset: A Personal Story 06/18/2024

E181 | How to Break Free from the Work Harder Mindset: A Personal Story Did you grow up or start your career being rewarded or recognized for a being a hard worker? Most entrepreneurs have. It's that drive, determination, and willingness to do the hard things that enabled us to turn our passion, idea, or opportunity into a business. But what if it's the same thing that's causing us to overwork, burn ourselves out, or slow down our results? When we've consistently seen results from our hard work, especially when it's come from working harder than others around us, we can tie our identity to being a hard worker and develop unconscious beliefs that the only way to see results is to work harder or do more. Have you ever freed up time in your week only to immediately fill it in with more work? Or have you ever been on vacation or out with family and felt that pull to check in on things or do work even when you really had nothing urgent that needed to be done? That's a sign it may be time to dig into your beliefs about what it takes to be and remain successful. Not the surface level beliefs where you consciously know that success doesn't only come from working harder…But the deep rooted unconscious ones that formed early in our lives and still influence our actions today. In this week's episode, I dive into breaking free from the “work harder” mindset and share my own personal evolution with this. If you caught the story I recently shared about mining for Herkimer diamonds, I take you into the full story in this episode and what it taught me about not always having to work harder and do more. I also share: How to break free from the "hard worker" mindset Understanding what's needed in different seasons of work & life Practical tips for working smarter instead of harder Strategies that help you reclaim your time Just because you’re a hard worker doesn’t mean you have to work hard. Let me say that again, because it's important… Just because you’re a hard worker doesn’t mean you have to work hard. You can be strategic, work smarter, and achieve amazing results. One of the best ways to work smarter not harder is to learn how to strategically use AI to simplify and scale your business. My new Simplify and Scale with AI program is designed to help you do exactly that, vinf out more at We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31760013

E180 | Operational Mistakes That Impact Growth with Gwen Bortner 06/11/2024

E180 | Operational Mistakes That Impact Growth with Gwen Bortner Do you know what your business problem really is? Most visionary CEOs assume their growth issues are marketing-related, but the root cause often lies in operations. On this week's episode, Gwen Bortner and I uncover how getting to the heart of your actual problem can be a game-changer in business growth. Gwen Bortner is the founder of Everyday Effectiveness. She is a no-nonsense Operational Strategist and Business Advisor with an intuitive coaching mindset. She helps visionary female entrepreneurs achieve their most ambitious goals without the stress and overwhelm of trying to do it all on their own. Gwen shares valuable tips on hiring strategically, emphasizing the importance of finding team members who complement rather than mirror the business owner. Her approach comes from the belief that personal and professional success looks different for everyone, and most business owners waste time and energy trying to conform to outside expectations and definitions of success. Throughout our conversation, we explain the challenges of scaling a business effectively highlighting common pitfalls like mistaking operational issues for marketing problems and the importance of a holistic, strategic approach to business operations. Also, we advocate for investing in strategically minded operational leaders who can address deep-rooted issues, ensuring the business model is designed for long-term success rather than quick, reactionary fixes! We combine our 3 decades of operational expertise as the right-hands to some incredibly successful business leaders to share the common blind spots and mistakes that we see that keep businesses stuck, including: - Identifying & addressing root causes, not just symptoms - Why you need to take a holistic approach to operations - How defining a personal definition of success drives growth - The type of operational leader you should be looking for - The importance of complementary skill sets in hires “Every business works exactly as it was designed, but very few businesses are designed with intention” - Gwen Bortner Links: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31629942

E179 | How to Scale Without Burnout 06/04/2024

E179 | How to Scale Without Burnout Have you ever evaluated how scalable your current business model is? Or if your business suddenly experienced a 10x increase in clients, what would break down? The backbone of scaling in a sustainable way without overworking and burning out is a scalable business model and offer suite, but many businesses have ceilings and constraints in place that they don't realize exist. In this episode of the Lean Out Your Business podcast, I dive into the crucial topic of scaling without burnout. I share valuable exercises and strategies to help entrepreneurs determine their business's scalability and identify constraints that may be keeping them stuck. I emphasize the importance of a scalable business model and offer suite, and provide an in-depth examination of what it means to truly scale in a sustainable way without overworking and without burning out. I also discuss how to determine your business’s scalability "limit" and identify constraints that might be holding you back, including: - Understanding if your current business model can support your big financial vision - Identifying the number of clients you'll need to meet your financial goals - Common scaling constraints and how to overcome them - Learn why consistent client experience is crucial and how systems can help - Why AI should be part of your team and how it can save time and resources - Differentiate between growth and true scalability for real freedom in your business Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31540337

E178 | Becoming a Disruptor to Increase Sales with Jennifer Frye 05/28/2024

E178 | Becoming a Disruptor to Increase Sales with Jennifer Frye How do you define a "disruptor," and how does this definition resonate with your understanding or experience in your industry? What are some reasons a business owner might resist the idea of being a disruptor? How can they overcome this resistance? In this engaging episode of the Lean Out Your Business podcast, I welcomes Jennifer Frye, CEO of Appreciated Asset Business Solutions and creator of the disruptor designer method. Jennifer shares her unique approach to business growth, highlighting the importance of becoming a disruptor in your industry. Through her compelling insights, she explains how standing out from the status quo can eliminate competition and foster long-term client relationships by delivering a superior and unique service. Together, we delve deep into sales strategies, emphasizing the power of education over traditional sales methods. Jennifer reveals her approach to creating meaningful connections and understanding client needs, which has allowed her to foster genuine relationships and maintain high conversion rates. We discuss common mistakes businesses make with their messaging and positioning, and how to avoid them by focusing on benefits rather than features. In his episode, we explore: What it means to be a disruptor Strategies to set yourself apart from the competition Aligning your unique approach with your business goals Avoiding common mistakes in messaging and positioning Links: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31451387

E177 | Becoming a Safe & Secure AI-Enabled Business - Part 2 05/21/2024

E177 | Becoming a Safe & Secure AI-Enabled Business - Part 2 Have you ever considered what happens to your data and intellectual property when you enter it into an AI tool? Or how your clients may be using AI with your proprietary data from your courses or programs? AI is an incredible tool but it's important to understand how to protect your intellectual property and ensure your contracts reflect this new reality. In today’s episode, I dive into the evolving role of AI within business operations. I break down the mistakes that businesses make with AI and share insights on how to leverage it effectively to simplify processes, save time, and cut costs. I also share practical AI applications for strategic planning, systems creation, team enhancement, and gaining business insights. Whether you’re a founder or a team member, this episode is packed with actionable tips and essential considerations for integrating AI into your business operations. In this episode, you’ll discover: Key areas where AI can improve business operations Things to consider to protect your intellectual property The importance of updating contracts for AI use How to educate your team about safe and secure AI usage Time and money saving ways to leverage AI beyond content Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31387192

E176 | How to Grow Your Money Smartly, Safely, & Significantly with Anna Felix 05/14/2024

E176 | How to Grow Your Money Smartly, Safely, & Significantly with Anna Felix In this episode, I sit down with Anna Felix, a leading money strategist with a background in education and linguistic intelligence. We dive deep into the intricacies of financial planning and tax strategies, especially in the context of retirement and entrepreneurship. Anna analyzes the benefits of structuring retirement savings to be flexible and tax-efficient, leveraging the stability of growth tied to the S&P 500. She also shares valuable insights on how entrepreneurs can optimize their tax situations through proactive expense tracking and strategic use of Roth IRAs. Moving to a more personal vibe, Anna shares her journey from becoming a widow to empowering herself and other women in the realm of financial literacy. She emphasizes the importance of financial knowledge, advocating for its inclusion in educational curriculums, and highlights common financial missteps entrepreneurs often make. She empowers her clients to figure out the best way to grow their money using the 3 S's (Smartly, Safely, and Significantly). In this episode, we explore: Understanding your financial health importance Spotting common entrepreneurial finance mistakes Smart tax planning strategies Insights into non-traditional retirement savings Learning to grow money tax-free How to feel empowered about financial decisions "When you understand and control your finances, you’re not just planning for tomorrow; you’re securing your ability to make choices for your future." - Anna Felix LINKS: Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31204302

E175 | Transitioning from AI-Created to AI-Enabled - Part 1 05/07/2024

E175 | Transitioning from AI-Created to AI-Enabled - Part 1 Are you finding AI helpful or distracting in your business? No matter how helpful and time-saving AI (or any tool and technology) can be, it can also run the risk of becoming a bright shiny object and distraction without the right intentionality and strategic focus. So, how do we leverage AI in a meaningful way that allows us to become more efficient, productive, and increase quality without losing our focus (or our brand voice) in the process? In this episode, I'm diving deep into how Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the business world! AI isn't just a trend—it's a game-changer. From simplifying tasks to automating processes and scaling operations, AI is the ultimate sidekick for business growth. But it's not just about plugging in any random AI tool and hoping for the best. I'll emphasize the importance of customizing AI solutions to fit a business's unique personality and goals. By investing in premium AI solutions, businesses can stand out from the crowd while maintaining top-notch content. I share the very big difference between what I call "AI-created" and "AI-enabled" and what to watch out for to avoid adding to the noise online and getting penalized by Google for doing so, plus: The 2 (and only 2) use cases for AI to ensure its adding value Tips to automate and streamline with AI, not add complexity Tools that bring out the best in your content and simplify repurposing How to maintain and even strengthen your brand voice when using AI What NOT to do if you want to avoid damaging your brand Things you may not realize AI can do that will save you time and money Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/31120658

E174 | High-Converting Messaging for Authentic Selling with Justine Beauregard 04/30/2024

E174 | High-Converting Messaging for Authentic Selling with Justine Beauregard Why is it important to customize sales messaging for different audiences? What are the key elements of a high-converting sales message, and how should these elements be adapted when dealing with diverse customer personas? In this insightful episode I am joined by sales coach Justine Beauregard to dive deep into the art of authentic sales and crafting high-converting messages. Justine is a Sales Coach + Trainer who helps people grow businesses and have objection-free sales conversations that are enjoyable from start to finish. Since 2008, she has trained thousands of people how to sell and helped nearly 600 clients worldwide reach up to 2,300% higher revenue using proven, feel-good sales strategies. Together, we unpack the do's and don'ts of sales conversations, emphasizing the importance of avoiding common mistakes like overselling and unselling. Justine, with her expertise, explains how curiosity can become a powerful tool to ensure alignment in potential partnerships, providing valuable advice on building confidence and adaptability in sales dialogue. Also, we share relatable experiences, and we highlight the significance of creating tailored and adaptable messaging, rather than resorting to a one-size-fits-all strategy. "Lead with value, not just a sales pitch. Authentic connection is key for successful conversations." - - Justine Beauregard In this episode, we explore: - The art of authentic selling techniques - Why specificity in your pitch can make or break a sale - Adjusting your message for clarity and impact - The importance of understanding your audience's needs - Using curiosity as a tool in sales conversations Links: Website: : : : : Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at . 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/30980168

E173 | Sales Mistakes That Turn Interested Prospects into Lost Opportunities 04/23/2024

E173 | Sales Mistakes That Turn Interested Prospects into Lost Opportunities How can entrepreneurs ensure they aren’t just selling products or services for the sake of financial gain, but are actually providing real value to their clients? Do you recall a time when you experienced being on the receiving end of a hard sell? How did it make you feel, and how did it influence your decision? In today’s episode, we are going to do something different and fun! We're diving into the world of sales tactics and why authenticity is crucial in building strong business relationships. I'll be sharing some personal stories that shed light on the downside of pushy sales strategies and the disappointment that follows when promises aren't kept. Reflecting on my own experiences with coaches who fell short on delivering real value, I'll stress how vital it is for entrepreneurs to prioritize their clients' needs and honor their commitments. Let's admit it, nobody likes being sold something they don't truly need or want! I'll also break down some common sales blunders, such as not believing in what you're offering and failing to effectively communicate its benefits. Because, having a tried-and-tested approach is what transforms potential leads into happy, satisfied clients. So, listen in to learn the secrets to building authentic, lasting business connections! In this episode, you’ll discover: How to avoid coming across as opportunistic vs. interested How focusing on the quick win can impact customer lifetime value 3 critical things that erode trust and confidence when missing Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business? We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at 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. For full show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/leanout/id/30836303

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