Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

In this episode, Monica Allen brings back some of her most valuable 2 Minute Takeaway lessons—bite-sized tips that pack a powerful punch. From building better customer relationships to setting goals that actually work, Monica shares smart, practical moves that any entrepreneur can make right now. Whether you’re just starting out or already scaling, these reminders will help you run your business m...

Episode Quote: The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you. ~B.B. King This week, I’m reaching back and bringing forward something that my longtime listeners may remember— Tuesday Takeaways. These were short but powerful insights I shared weekly to keep you inspired and moving forward on your business journey. Inside this episode, I’m sharing several timeless truths...

Episode Quote: Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you. ~Anne Lamott Do you feel like stepping away from your business will make it fall apart? In this powerful episode Monica reminds you that rest isn't a weakness—it's a strategy. Sharing personal stories from entrepreneurship and insights from leaders like Bill Gates, Monica reveals how stepping back c...

In this throwback episode, Monica returns to one of the most powerful tools every entrepreneur possesses: their mindset. With stories, personal insights, and a real-world example of someone stuck in a job they hate, Monica challenges listeners to examine the thoughts shaping their actions—or lack of action. She reveals how your upbringing, environment, relationships, and self-talk silently influen...

We’re officially halfway through the year and if your goals feel distant, forgotten, or buried under everyday demands, this episode is your reset button. In this throwback episode, Monica walks you through a simple but powerful mid-year check-in. You’ll learn how to reflect on the past six months, reassess what still matters, and recommit with purpose using systems and habits—not just wishful thin...

In this milestone episode, Monica reflects on 20 transformative years of entrepreneurship since walking away from her corporate job. She shares the 11 most powerful lessons she's learned growing her business from $700 to seven figures. From strategic exits to learning when to pivot, these takeaways aren't just motivational—they're tactical. Whether you're just starting or deep into...

In this episode of Become Your Own Boss , Monica unpacks the powerful lessons learned from her conversation with Trish Skelfo, a successful franchise broker and entrepreneur. Monica shares reflections that challenge traditional startup thinking—like skipping the business plan—and reveals why betting on yourself may be the most important investment you ever make. Whether you're just starting out or...

In this episode of Monica chats with Trish Skelfo, a leading franchise broker who built her business from zero to seven figures—starting with just $1,500 and a borrowed garage room. Trish shares how one big risk (and one small ad) changed her life, and how her cutting-edge AI platform is helping others find the right franchise fit—without wasting time or money. Her story is proof that you don’t ne...

When is the right time to take a stand—and when is silence the smarter move? In this thought-provoking episode, Monica shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur navigating the tricky intersection of politics, personal beliefs, and business strategy. With examples from her own business and high-profile brands like Tesla and Target, she breaks down the importance of staying true to your values...

In this episode of Become Your Own Boss , Monica welcomes back entrepreneur, author, and AI strategist Ethan King to unpack what’s currently happening in the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence (AI). From game-changing updates in image and voice tech to the real secret weapon behind AI success...this conversation is packed with tools and truths every business owner should hear. Whether yo...

In this episode, we’re getting real about the pressure to grow, hustle, and perform according to everyone else’s expectations. Whether it’s social media trends, industry “shoulds,” or well-meaning friends giving unsolicited advice—there’s always noise about what your business should look like. But here’s the truth: your business should work for you . Monica shares candid stories—from her own journ...

What if the dream you’ve been avoiding is the one that could change everything? In this episode, Monica reflects on seven powerful lessons sparked by her recent interview with Tracy Nicole of Tracy Nicole Clothing . If you've been feeling stuck, uncertain, or unfulfilled, this is your reminder that the dream won’t chase itself—and life won't wait forever. Monica gets personal about support...

In this inspiring episode of Become Your Own Boss , Monica sits down with Tracy Nicole—a powerhouse fashion designer, author, and philanthropist whose story will challenge everything you thought you needed to succeed. From occupational therapy to building a national fashion brand, Tracy shares how purpose, preparation, and the courage to begin transformed her life and business. Raised by a single...

What does five years of podcasting teach you about life, business, and legacy? In this powerful season opener, Monica marks the 5-year anniversary of Become Your Own Boss with five timeless lessons that will resonate deeply with entrepreneurs at any stage. From launching in a global shutdown to reaching listeners across the world, Monica opens up about the moments of doubt, the push for perfection...

Are you truly present when others speak—or just waiting for your turn? In this powerful solo episode, Monica invites listeners to rediscover the lost art of meaningful conversation. Sparked by a simple chat with her daughter, Monica explores how curiosity, presence, and better questions can strengthen our personal and professional relationships. Whether you’re building a brand or bonding with your...

In this episode Monica unpacks the very real impact of newly announced tariffs (and the pause) —and what you, as a business owner, can do to protect your bottom line. This isn’t a panic moment; it’s a preparation moment. Monica walks you through the strategic decisions she’s making at Zeus’ Closet and challenges you to rethink your supply chain, pricing, and even your revenue streams. From small t...

In this eye-opening episode, Monica speaks directly to the solo entrepreneurs, the sole proprietors, and the self-made bosses making it happen every single day. If your income stops the moment you do, this is the wake-up call you didn’t know you needed. Monica unpacks the power of income diversification, practical automations, and business protections that give you the freedom to rest without guil...

In this episode Monica breaks down the book Hug Your Haters by Jay Baer and shares the mindset shift that transformed how she handles customer complaints. Once extremely bothered by negative reviews, Monica now sees them as one of the most powerful tools for growth. Through personal stories and lessons from the book, she explains why how you respond to unhappy customers could become your strongest...

In this episode Monica shares the sales strategies that have fueled her multi-million dollar business—and they might not be what you expect. With just three simple words—follow-up, feedback, and friendship—you’ll learn how to approach sales in a way that feels authentic, builds trust, and ultimately drives revenue. This episode is a must-listen if you're ready to stop pitching and start connecting...

Are you feeling overwhelmed running your business solo or with a small team? You’re not alone. Many solopreneurs and small business owners struggle to juggle marketing, sales, customer service, and operations—all while actually doing the work they get paid for. The truth is, you can’t do it all. But the good news? You don’t have to. In this episode, Monica shares practical strategies to streamline...

Hiring the right people can make or break your business, yet so many entrepreneurs rush the process—only to regret it later. In this episode, Monica shares hard-earned lessons from over two decades of hiring experience. From bad hires that created chaos to team members who became family, she reveals what really works when it comes to finding the right people. Learn why slowing down is the key to h...

Bringing on a new team member is exciting, but are you setting them (and your business) up for long-term success? In this episode, Monica sits down with strategic advisor and entrepreneur TJ Slattery to discuss the often-overlooked but critical process of onboarding. TJ shares insights from his experience running a brewery to helping small businesses scale effectively through Crow’s Nest Consultin...

Last week, Monica shared key strategies that helped scale her business, but there was one powerful tool she left out—email marketing. This one strategy changed everything. Email isn’t just about sending messages; it’s about building deeper relationships, boosting sales, and keeping your brand top of mind. In this episode, Monica shares how email marketing transformed her business, why automation i...

How do you scale a business without burning out or breaking the bank? In this episode, Monica shares 11 proven strategies that helped her grow her business from $700 to seven figures—without investor funding. From starting with an MVP to diversifying revenue streams and building strong systems, these principles can help you grow sustainably. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level...

How do you know if you're starting the right business? Many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle with this question, wondering if their idea is the right fit or if they should even start at all. In this episode, Monica shares a conversation after she is inspired by 2 questions posed by her teenager daughter and her bestie who are already thinking about entrepreneurship. One of their big questions?...