The Life-First Solopreneur (formerly The Aspiring Solopreneur)

PR might sound like it's just for celebrities and big brands, but guess what? Solopreneurs, this one’s for you . In this episode, we’re breaking down simple, doable PR strategies that can get you media coverage, even if you don’t have a press team, a bestselling product, or a household name (yet). We’re talking about how to pitch like a pro, what journalists actually want, and why the best way to...

Think Instagram is just for influencers and avocado toast? Think again. In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur , we sit down with Sydney O'Brien, a rockstar Instagram strategist who built her business while juggling three kids under five and a military deployment (yes, really). Sydney shares why most solopreneurs are talking past their dream clients, the mistake you're probably making with yo...

When solopreneurs flee the corporate world, “standard operating procedures” are often the first thing left behind—right next to awkward team-building exercises and passive-aggressive reply-all emails. But hold up —this is one “corporate” thing you do want to keep. In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur , Carly and Joe dive into the unexpected power of SOPs. From preparing for life’s curveball...

In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur , we sit down with Stan Ward, coach, author, and spreadsheet whisperer, who shares how it took him five years to develop a system he now teaches in just 60 days , how he turned his finances from chaos into calm, and why paying yourself twice a month might be the smartest move you haven’t made yet. Stan’s approach blends structure with soul, systems with...

Think LinkedIn is just for job hunting? Think again. In this episode, Carly flips the script and interviews Joe about one of the most underrated lead gen tools for solopreneurs: LinkedIn Sales Navigator. They pull back the curtain on exactly how they use it to fill their events, build real relationships, and grow their network—without ever sounding salesy. If you've been hesitant about spending mo...

What do branding yourself, redefining freedom, and learning how to actually sell have in common? Solopreneur coach Moe Choice breaks it all down in this wildly refreshing episode. From bouncing back after burnout and bankruptcy to building 15K+ months, Moe shares the mindset shifts and practical skills that truly move the needle. If you're tired of vague advice and ready to get real about position...

Are you charging what you're actually worth, or just what you think people will pay? In this episode, Carly and Joe finally tackle the pricing conversation solopreneurs can’t afford to avoid. From ditching the hourly mindset to channeling your inner Alex Hormozi, they explore how to set prices that reflect your value, not your self-doubt. Tune in for hard-earned lessons, pricing psychology, and wh...

What happens when three product experts walk into a solopreneur podcast? You get an episode packed with game-changing insights from the co-authors of Next Gen Product Management . In this rare group interview, Carly and Joe are joined by returning guest Teresa Cain and her co-authors Diana Stepner and Dr. Bart to explore how solopreneurs can build smarter, faster, and more future-proof businesses—...

Ever feel like you're drowning in tasks, yet still not moving the needle in your business? You’re not alone. In this episode, Carly and Joe unpack that all-too-familiar solopreneur overwhelm—when everything feels urgent and there’s zero breathing room. They break down how to prioritize when your to-do list is screaming at you from every direction, using the Eisenhower Matrix, tips from Getting Thi...

In this episode, we asked marketing matchmaker Behdad Jamshidi one simple icebreaker: What do you wish you knew before becoming a solopreneur? And wow, did he deliver. From climbing the unexpected business ladder to spotting red flags when hiring marketing help, Behdad shares the lessons no one tells you—but every solopreneur needs to hear. Feeling overwhelmed by your options? Struggling to pick a...

Sun’s out, distractions outta control? Whether it’s rescheduled meetings, kids at home, or that pool calling your name, summer can wreak havoc on a solopreneur’s schedule. In this episode, Carly and Joe get real about how to stay focused when everything around you screams “vacation mode.” From early morning work sessions to strategic procrastination (yes, really), they’re spilling their best tips...

The solopreneur economy is booming, but what’s really driving it, and how do you stand out when your competition spans the globe? In this episode, digital media expert Naresh Vissa joins us to break down the rise of solopreneurship, why getting fired might be the best thing that ever happens to your career, and how he built a high-quality, low-cost business that thrives on referrals. Plus, we unpa...

Tired of sleazy sales pitches? So are we.   In this episode, Carly and Joe unload on the cringiest sales tactics cluttering inboxes today: think cold DMs that insult your business, spammy bots pretending to be human, and desperate pitches that reek of commission breath. But don’t worry, it’s not just a rant. They also break down how solopreneurs can build real trust, use storytelling to connect au...

If you've ever felt like your to-do list is running you instead of the other way around, this episode is your reset button. Business coach Diane Helbig joins us to share real-world strategies for managing time, setting boundaries, and replacing pushy sales tactics with genuine relationship-building. From why smaller calendar blocks are a secret weapon to how to bounce back from setbacks without sp...

What if scaling your solopreneur business didn’t mean hiring a team or working 80-hour weeks? In this episode, we’re diving into creative, cost-effective ways to grow, without giving up the freedom that made you go solo in the first place. From automating tasks and outsourcing smartly to using AI to customize your messaging and repurposing content like a pro, we’re sharing real strategies that act...

In this episode, we sit down with Anya Cheng, the unstoppable founder of Taelor. Style , an AI-driven clothing rental service for busy men who hate laundry and love looking sharp. From handing out resumes outside campus buildings to building a company that merges sustainability, tech, and style, Anya's journey is equal parts inspiring, resourceful, and, honestly, a little wild. If you’ve ever felt...

Ready to stop reinventing the wheel every time you work? In this episode, Carly and Joe are talking about why solopreneurs need to embrace systems from day one! Whether you're managing your social media, responding to client emails, or handling finances, consistency is key. And trust us, it’s not just about saving time, it’s about building a business that runs like clockwork. Hear how documenting...

It started as girl talk… and turned into one of the most honest, powerful conversations we’ve had on this show. In this episode, Carly sits down with Athena Brownson, former professional skier turned real estate powerhouse, as she opens up about the journey from chasing air in halfpipes to battling chronic illness and redefining what it means to thrive.  Athena shares her hard-earned wisdom on res...

In today's sound bite episode, we’re tackling a topic that hits home for every solopreneur: taking time off.  As a solopreneur, your time is your currency—stepping away from work can feel like a trade-off between relaxation and revenue, or between recharging and losing momentum. But here’s the thing: burnout isn’t good for business, and neither is running on empty. So, how do you balance the need...

In this episode, Carly and Joe chat with Karen King, aka The Escapepreneur, about what it really takes to build a business that lets you work from anywhere. From discovering your true passions to keeping things ridiculously simple (think: Facebook group + PayPal), Karen shares her journey from burnout to freedom and how you can do the same. Whether you're craving more flexibility, family time, or...

Ever wonder what rookie mistakes might secretly be sabotaging your solopreneur journey? In this episode, Carly and Joe dive into the biggest blunders new solopreneurs make, from flying solo a little too solo to underpricing, overplanning, and forgetting the golden rule of lead gen. Whether you're just starting out or already in the thick of it, these are the missteps to avoid if you want to build...

What do addiction recovery, international web hosting, youth boxing, and AI-powered solopreneurship have in common? Ken Cox. In this raw and inspiring episode, Ken shares how hitting rock bottom sparked a complete life overhaul—from buying a boxing gym to launching tech ventures that run on AI. If you're stuck overthinking, this episode might just be the wake-up call you need. Let's get to work. B...

Feeling like you’re constantly chasing your next paycheck or running out of time to grow your business? You’re not alone! In this short episode, Carly and Joe dive into the game-changing potential of recurring revenue for solopreneurs. From Joe's firsthand experience building subscription-based businesses to Carly's actionable tips for keeping your pipeline full, you’ll learn how to create financi...

What do laid-off marketers, disgruntled Gen Xers, and rule-breaking entrepreneurs have in common? They all need to hear this episode. Laura Zavelson joins us to talk about why niching down is your secret weapon, how to sell without sounding salesy, and the real reason you’re probably undercharging (hint: it’s not because you need another certification).  Whether you're plotting your escape from co...

Think your brand is just a logo and a color scheme? Think again! As a solopreneur, YOU are your brand. In this sound bite episode, we dive into what truly makes a personal brand stand out. From embracing your unique strengths to building trust with your audience, we break down why your brand is about more than just marketing—it’s about who you are and how you show up . Plus, we’ll tackle the commo...