Shows
CEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 106 - From Busy to Strategic: How Small Business Owners Can Think Like a CEOWhen you're doing everything in your business, it's exhausting. It can feel like your business will crumble if you step away for just one day. If you're craving more time, more profit, and more ease, learning to lead like a CEO is the next step. This isn't about adding more to your plate - it's about strategy, prioritizing, and making decisions with intention. Let’s talk about what that actually looks like and how to make it happen, even when your plate feels full.
My 7-day private podcast series, The CEO Sprint, will walk you through finding and...2025-07-2216 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 105 - Improving Business Systems During DowntimeIf your business has hit a slower season — maybe summer rolled in and client calls dried up — it’s tempting to either panic or completely check out. You're not sure what to focus on, but what if these quiet stretches are actually a strategic advantage? I work with small business owners every day who feel like they’re constantly catching up. They’re stuck reacting to the urgent instead of improving what really matters: their systems. Slow seasons are the perfect opportunity to step back, review what’s working (and what’s not), and strengthen the core processes that support your bu...2025-07-1520 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 104 - What to Do When Business Is Slow in the SummerSummer hits... and suddenly the pace shifts. Sales dip, inboxes quiet down, and that constant buzz of urgency starts to fade. For many small business owners, this feels unsettling. You might start wondering if something’s wrong or if the momentum is slipping away. But a seasonal slowdown isn’t a problem to solve. It’s an opportunity to strategically pause. Use this quiet time to do the work that gets ignored during busier months: check in on your business, refocus your priorities, and clean up your systems. When you use your downtime like a pro, you'll be ready when b...2025-07-0826 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 103 - Unlock Growth by Analyzing Your Business OperationsDo you feel like even though you're doing all the right things in your business, growth is slower than it should be? Maybe your next breakthrough isn’t about adding something new….but about taking a closer look at what’s already there. Today, we’ll walk through a simple, practical framework to assess your business operations, uncover hidden inefficiencies, and make space for real, sustainable growth. You'll learn 3 ways to search for more efficient strategies, and 3 mistakes to avoid. No spreadsheets. No 10-hour review sessions. Just smart reflection that helps you stop spinning your wheels and start gaining traction.2025-07-0122 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 102 - How to Cut Costs in a Small Business Without Sacrificing GrowthIf you've ever found yourself wondering how to save money as an entrepreneur without sacrificing growth or burning everything to the ground, you're not alone. But here's the truth: smarter spending, not just less spending, is the real secret to sustainable growth. Today, we're diving into practical, strategic business cost reduction ideas that help you save money in business without cutting corners. This isn’t about panic moves. It’s about making clear, confident decisions that keep your business profitable and resilient. Whether you're trying to regain control of your bottom line or preparing for a season of growth, this...2025-06-2433 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 101 - 5 Tips for Pricing Your Services for ProfitabilityAs a small business owner, it's likely that you're working hard and still not meeting your income goals. If that’s you, it’s time to take a step back and reassess your pricing. Pricing isn’t just a number—it’s the foundation of your entire business model. If you’re underpricing your services, you're not just leaving money on the table; you're setting yourself up for burnout, frustration, and resentment. Today, I’ll walk you through five actionable tips to price your services with purpose, clarity, and confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or you've been in business for...2025-06-1715 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 100 - What 100 Podcast Episodes Taught Me About Small Business GrowthEver wonder what really goes into this podcast? To celebrate 100 episodes, it's time to pull back the curtain on how I plan my episodes, stay consistent, and choose topics relevant to what business owners are facing now. This podcast has helped me grow, not just in reach and visibility, but in clarity and consistency. Even some of my offers have started out as podcast topics. Listen in and join me on my journey from the start in July 2023 to here.
The giveaway to celebrate 100 episodes is still open! You can get a chance to win a free 60...2025-06-1015 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 99 - What Profitability Really Means for Small Business OwnersWhen you hear the word "profit," do you think of a distant goal that will come true someday when you finally hit that dream revenue milestone? For many small business owners, profitability feels like a moving target or a confusing mystery. From my work behind the scenes as a business strategist, I know that profit tells much more of the story than revenue. A business making $500K a year with slim margins might be less profitable—and more stressful—than a business bringing in $150K with lean operations and strong systems. Today, we’ll walk through what profitability actually means, h...2025-06-0330 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 98 - 5 Ways to Conquer Overwhelm in Your Small BusinessAs a small business owner, overwhelm can feel like your constant companion. Whether it’s the never-ending task list, constant distractions, or the pressure to keep up with every aspect of your business, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning. But here’s the truth: overwhelm in business isn’t a result of poor time management or a lack of effort. It’s a sign that your systems need to evolve to keep pace with your growing business. Today, I’ll share five practical ways to overcome overwhelm and take back control of your time and energy, without having...2025-05-2719 min
Coaching With ImpactEp 18 - From Hustling to Leading: Embracing the CEO Mindset (with Donna Dube)Are you running your coaching business, or is it running you?In this episode of Coaching with Impact, host Fifa Tran sits down with business growth strategist and CEO Amplify podcast host Donna Dube to talk about how to lead your business with purpose, strategy, and clarity. If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly busy but not actually growing, this conversation is a must-listen.Donna shares her powerful framework for developing a CEO mindset, balancing life and business, and making intentional decisions that prioritize your energy and impa...2025-05-2637 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 97 - How Small Business Systems Simplify Growth and Make Scaling SustainableWhen it comes to growing a business, most small business owners fall into the same trap: the more growth they experience, the more work piles up on their own desk. At first, growth feels exciting — until the extra hours, constant decision-making, and spinning plates start to wear you down. The truth is, small business growth doesn’t have to come at the cost of your time, your freedom, or your sanity. If you want to scale your business sustainably, the solution isn’t hustle — it’s systems.
In fact, building the right systems is one of the smartest s...2025-05-2017 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 96 - The Time Management Mistake Keeping Small Business Owners Busy But Not ProfitableEver feel like your calendar is packed, your to-do list never ends, and yet… your business still isn’t where you want it to be? You're not alone. Most small business owners are working constantly — juggling client delivery, team questions, content creation, customer service, admin tasks — and still wondering why profit margins stay thin. But here’s the truth: being busy doesn't mean you're being profitable. In fact, most small business owners spend over 80% of their time on work that doesn't directly generate profit. Today, we'll talk about why this happens, what to do instead, and how to protect your CEO ti...2025-05-1312 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 95 - How I Saved Time in My Business by Delegating EffectivelyWhen I first started my business, I believed that doing everything myself was the only way to ensure things were done right. But here’s the hard truth: trying to do it all is a guaranteed way to keep your business running you. Stay with me as I share how I cracked the code on delegation, the costly mistakes I made along the way, and how freeing up my time transformed my business. Plus, I’ll give you actionable steps on how to delegate tasks effectively and reclaim your time.
If you're ready to start delegating and you...2025-05-0625 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 94 - How to Prioritize Tasks that Matter to Move Your Business ForwardAs a small business owner, you know how overwhelming it can be to juggle the constant stream of tasks that come your way. From managing clients to handling daily operations, it’s easy to get bogged down in busy work, leaving little time for the activities that actually move the needle in your business.
In this post, we’ll explore five proven strategies that will help you identify and prioritize the tasks that matter most, so you can finally stop spinning your wheels and start making real progress. Let’s dive in!
Take action today by dow...2025-04-2923 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 93 - Why Batching Tasks Might Not Have Worked for You (And How to Fix It!)You've probably heard about batching tasks as a time-saving productivity hack. It’s that strategy where you group similar tasks together to work more efficiently. In theory, it sounds like the perfect solution for overwhelmed business owners who are juggling a million responsibilities. But if you’ve tried batching before and felt like it just didn’t work for you, you’re not alone. Many small business owners attempt to batch, only to feel frustrated, unproductive, or burned out. So why does batching tasks fail for so many entrepreneurs? And more importantly, how can you make it actually work for your...2025-04-2215 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 92 - Balancing Productivity and Creativity as a Business OwnerEver feel like you're stuck in an endless loop of answering emails and checking off tasks, with no time left for the creative work that actually moves your business forward? You’re not alone. Many business owners struggle with balancing productivity and creativity, constantly torn between completing essential tasks and making space for the big ideas that drive growth.
Productivity keeps your business running, but creativity fuels innovation. Without creativity, you risk stagnation, doing the same thing over and over without evolving. Without productivity, great ideas never come to life. The key is finding the balance. In th...2025-04-1523 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 91 - How To Build Systems in Your Business (So It Runs Without You!)Do you ever feel like your business would fall apart if you stepped away for just one day? Are you trapped in the grind where every email, client request, and problem seems to land on your plate? Here’s the truth: A successful business should run like a well-oiled machine—whether or not you're involved in every detail. In today's episode, we’re diving into the mindset shift from being a "doer" to a "delegator," and we’ll explore the essential systems you need to set up in your business to create a self-sustaining, scalable operation. Whether you're in the earl...2025-04-0816 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 90 - Why You Can't Ignore SOPs in Your Small BusinessIf you're a small business owner, you've probably rolled your eyes at the thought of creating Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). They sound dull, complicated, and, frankly, like something only big corporations need to worry about. But here’s the truth: SOPs aren’t just for the Fortune 500 companies. They’re for any business that wants to run smoothly, grow efficiently, and save time. Whether you’re a solopreneur or leading a growing team, SOPs can transform your operations and make your business more efficient than ever before.
Let’s explore why SOPs are so important, how they can save y...2025-04-0122 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 89 - Streamlining in Business: How I Upgraded My Workflow to Save TimeAs business owners, we’re always looking for ways to work smarter—not harder. Over time, we build systems that help us get things done efficiently, but as your business grows, those systems might start to hold you back. What once worked well can eventually become outdated, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and bogged down by inefficiencies.
In this post, we'll explore the importance of streamlining in business, how outdated systems impact your productivity, and actionable steps to upgrade your workflow. By simplifying your processes, you can save valuable time, reduce unnecessary effort, and set your business up for...2025-03-2515 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 88 - Boundaries in Business: The Art of Saying NoIf you’ve ever struggled to say no in your business—whether it's to a client request, a last-minute meeting, or simply answering emails at all hours—you are not alone. Setting boundaries is one of the hardest but most necessary skills a business owner can develop. But when you say yes to everything, you end up saying no to the things that actually matter. Enforcing boundaries may scare you at first, but it will lead to more freedom in your business.
If you're struggling with setting and enforcing boundaries, book an operations strategy session where together we wil...2025-03-1817 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 87 - Overcoming Entrepreneur Burnout: How to Reclaim Your Time and Boost ProductivityDoes work that used to excite you now feel like a chore? If you’re on the brink of burnout or already feeling its weight, this guide is for you. As business owners, we’re conditioned to believe that pushing through exhaustion is the path to our goals, but hard work alone isn’t what moves the needle. What actually creates results is working with focus and intention—putting your energy into the right things while also making space to rest, recover, and think strategically. That’s how you reclaim your time and ensure sustainable success. Let’s explore how to recog...2025-03-1117 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 86 - 8 Productivity Hacks for Business Owners: How to Get the Right Things Done to Move Your Business ForwardHello busy entrepreneur! Are you feeling like you're working non-stop but not getting the results you want? It’s easy to feel stuck when the grind feels endless, yet progress seems elusive. But what if I told you that it’s not about doing more, but about working smart and focusing on the right tasks?
Today, we’re diving into 8 productivity strategies for your business that will help you stop spinning your wheels and start making real progress toward your business goals.
It’s that time of the year when the goals you set at the star...2025-03-0400 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 85 - How to Move Past Fear and Build the Business You WantStarting and growing a business can be terrifying. Those fears—like wondering if anyone will care about what you have to say or questioning your qualifications—are all too common. But here’s the truth: You don’t need to wait for confidence to strike. You just need to take action, even if you’re scared. In this episode, we’re diving into the messy, real process of building a business in the face of fear and how to push through to create something meaningful.
Want to learn about my membership, the Profitable Small Business Club? ceoamplify.ca/profit2025-02-2513 min
Pockets of Knowledge#123. From Overwhelmed to Empowered: How to Think Like a CEO with Donna DubeIn this informative episode of Pockets of Knowledge, host Desiree Stanley welcomes Donna Dube, founder of CEO Amplify, a certified director of operations, growth strategist, and podcast host dedicated to helping entrepreneurs shift from overwhelmed business owners to empowered CEOs. Donna shares her unique journey from ICU nurse to business strategist, highlighting the lessons she’s learned in scaling businesses, improving operations, and creating sustainable growth without burnout.Donna breaks down why so many entrepreneurs get stuck working in their businesses instead of on them, leading to constant hustle with little progress. She shares the key differences be...2025-02-1935 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 84 - You Don't Need Perfect Business Systems to Grow and ScaleRunning an online business often comes with the pressure to be hyper-organized, meticulously planned, and a master of systems. But what if that’s just not you? What if you feel like chaos is your default and color-coded calendars make your head spin?
If you’ve ever thought, “I’m just not organized enough to succeed,” this episode is for you. Let’s break down why that belief isn’t the full story—and how you can thrive in business without being a naturally organized person.
Want help making a plan for delegation? Check out my 5-day system...2025-02-1814 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 83 - Focused on Hitting Your Revenue Goals? Here’s What You Actually Need to Prioritize for Business SuccessAs a small business owner, you’ve probably heard it a thousand times: "Hit that revenue target, and you'll have made it." But is that really the endgame? Is hitting a certain revenue number the key to success and fulfillment in your business?
In today’s world of hustle culture, it’s easy to get caught up in the chase for bigger numbers. However, just reaching a revenue goal doesn’t guarantee long-term success or personal fulfillment, so revenue alone shouldn't be the driving force behind your business goals. What truly matters more is building a business that wor...2025-02-1111 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 82 - Turn Goals Into Action: Your 12-Month Plan for SuccessYou’ve set bold goals and reimagined the life you want to live—but how do you ensure those dreams don’t fade by March? The final step in the Dream Big, Plan Smart series is creating a 12-month action plan to bridge the gap between intention and achievement. This plan will act as your roadmap, guiding you through the year with clarity and confidence.
Without a solid plan, even the most inspiring goals can lose momentum, leaving you reacting to daily demands instead of proactively building the life and business you envision. Let’s walk through how to cr...2025-02-0416 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 81 - Keys to Setting Goals That Will Boost Your Business in 2025Setting goals can feel overwhelming—especially when it seems like every area of your business could use attention. What if you could stop feeling overwhelmed by your business goals and finally gain momentum by focusing on just a few strategic priorities? In this episode, I’ll guide you through narrowing your priorities, identifying what your business needs most, and planning systems that drive sustainable growth. Get ready to set goals that truly move the needle for your life and business.
This is the fourth episode of the Dream Big, Plan Smart series. If you missed the beginning, you...2025-01-2813 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 80 - How to Align Your Business With Your Dream LifeWelcome back, small business owners! Are you building a business that supports your dream life—or one that drains it? In today’s episode, we’re diving into how to align your business with your life goals. First, we'll define what success means in your life outside of your business, and then you'll learn practical steps to evaluate your business and shape it to fund the life you want. When your business supports your life, rather than your life supporting your business, you can gain the freedom you envisioned when you started your business.
This is the third...2025-01-2116 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 79 - The Secret to Designing a Business That Supports Your LifeWelcome to the second episode in the Dream Big, Plan Smart series! Today, we’re diving into something I think is both exciting and deeply important—designing your year. But this isn’t just about setting business goals or hitting revenue targets. It’s about stepping back to dream bigger and creating a life you love, supported by a business that works for you. This approach draws inspiration from Cameron Herold’s Double Double, where he encourages looking three years ahead to design your future. But instead of focusing on three years, we’re zeroing in on just one. A year is ta...2025-01-1411 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 78 - How to Find What’s Holding Your Business Back—And Fix ItAs we kick off the new year, many of us feel the pull of possibility and motivation to set ambitious goals. January often brings a sense of renewal, making it the perfect time to reflect, dream big, and plan smart. I'm starting the year with the Dream Big, Plan Smart series—a step-by-step process to help you create a year you can look back on with pride and satisfaction. In this first episode, we’ll explore why planning matters and how reflecting on the past year can set the stage for a more intentional and impactful 2025.
Download the D...2025-01-0713 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 77 - Let's Celebrate You, CEO!Welcome back, business leaders! As we enter 2025 (yes, I'm counting today even though it's December 31st), today is a chance to remember everything that you've accomplished in the last year. Maybe you reached your goals for the year or made significant leaps in revenue, but even if you didn't have a major accomplishment, acknowledge that just keeping your business running is a success. You're the only one who knows all the hard work, disappointments, and doubts you've endured to keep your business' wheels turning. Even if no one else has noticed, you can, and I can too. Take a...2024-12-3110 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 76 - Leadership and Communication: The Overlooked Drivers of Business GrowthSystems and processes are vital to your business excellence, but they won't get you very far without one thing that only you can provide: leadership. In this episode, I'll tell you about three team communication challenges that visionary leaders face and how you can overcome them by establishing shared purpose. This way, you can avoid simply jumping in to give an order or fix the problem, and foster a culture of bottom-up accountability where your team can have open conversations with you. Lead your team with purpose by seeing them as working with you, not just for you.
2024-12-2420 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 75 - The Broken Profit Formula That's Burning You Out - And How to Fix ItAre you working harder than ever but still feel stuck in your business? It’s a frustrating place to be—pouring in endless hours and energy but not seeing the results you deserve. Here’s the thing: the formula you’re using to run your business might be broken, and it’s costing you more than just profit. Relying solely on your own time and effort may make sense at first, but it makes you the bottleneck to business growth, and it's a one-way ticket to burnout. What if there’s a better way? What if you could work fewer hours...2024-12-1724 min
The Growth Show with Whitney BatesonEp 40 - Profitable Productivity with Donna DubeIn this episode of the Growth Show, host Whitney welcomes Donna Dube, a certified director of operations, business growth strategist, and host of the CEO Amplify podcast. Whitney and Donna discuss powerful and practical strategies to shift from working in the day-to-day grind of your business to embracing your role as a confident CEO. They dive into common challenges business owners face, such as getting bogged down by daily operations, and how to overcome them by focusing on growth tasks, effective delegation, and leveraging CEO power hours. Donna shares insights on how to set up strategic systems, align tasks...2024-12-1648 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 74 - How to Reframe Failure as a Tool for Business GrowthFailure. It’s one of those words that makes many of us cringe, especially when it comes to our businesses. But what if failure wasn't something to avoid, but a powerful tool for growth? Instead of letting setbacks hold us back, we can reframe them as valuable opportunities to learn and propel ourselves forward. We'll start by looking at the science of how our brains handle failure, and then we'll talk about how to understand the situation as simply another opportunity to try.
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00:00 Reframing failure as growth tool for entrepreneurs.
02:32 What ha...2024-12-1019 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 73 - How to Create Systems in Your Business in 4 Easy StepsAre you juggling so many tasks that you’re one email away from burnout? Many business owners think handling everything themselves shows strength, but it’s often the fastest road to exhaustion. If you’re ready to step off the hamster wheel and let your business work for you, not the other way around, this guide breaks down the four key steps to build systems that keep your business running smoothly—even when you’re not involved in every detail.
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00:00 If you're constantly overwhelmed, mindset might be holding you back.
01:58 Systems that allow...2024-12-0314 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 72 - The Power of Yet: How to Transform Your Business Mindset for SuccessIn the world of entrepreneurship, feeling stuck can sometimes feel like part of the journey. Perhaps you've said, "I'm not hitting my income goals" or "My business isn't where I want it to be." But what if a simple shift in language could change everything? Enter the power of yet. Adding yet to your statements—“I’m not there yet”—transforms them from closed doors to windows of possibility. It’s a small change with a big impact, shifting you from frustration to a growth mindset. Find out how embracing yet can empower you to celebrate progress, transform failure, and keep mov...2024-11-2615 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 71 - Take Action Now: Discover the Hidden Profits in Your BusinessIn a world that glorifies hustle and constant growth, it’s easy to get lost chasing new clients, creating endless marketing campaigns, or obsessing over vanity metrics. But did you know that there’s hidden money in your business that doesn’t require a massive audience, paid ads, or more hours of work? In this final installment of our series on reducing burnout and entrepreneurial poverty, we’ll uncover how focusing on lifetime customer value, excellent delivery, rave reviews, referrals, and repeat business can transform your revenue streams. Don't miss one of the simplest revenue sources in your business - the cl...2024-11-1914 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 70 - Earn More as a Small Business Owner with Less Effort: Master the Art Now!Are you a small business owner who feels bogged down by endless to-dos, yet not achieving the growth you desire? This struggle is more common than you think. Many business owners are trapped in the hustle cycle, working harder, not smarter. But imagine a world where you could focus on the tasks that truly drive your business forward—without sacrificing more time or energy. That’s the vision behind the Profitable Small Business Club, a membership community I've just created to help you build a thriving business with less effort and more intention. Today, we’ll explore the three founda...2024-11-1214 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 69 - What's the Secret to a Predictable Profit Plan?How much would your business change if you landed just 5 or 10 new clients? Often, we focus on vanity metrics, like our number of social media followers, thinking that more visibility automatically leads to success. While it’s important to grow your audience, the real game-changer for your business is having a consistent, predictable strategy to convert that visibility into paying clients. If you're tired of feeling like you’re hustling non-stop without seeing a sustainable return, listen in. We’re diving into how to create a 12-month profit plan that ensures you avoid the feast-or-famine cycle that so many entrep...2024-11-0514 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 68 - Pricing Strategies That Guarantee Success for Small Business OwnersRunning a business that feels more like a grind than the freedom-filled venture you once envisioned? You’re not alone. Many online business owners find themselves stuck in a cycle of burnout, constant busywork, and underwhelming income. One of the most significant yet often overlooked culprits? Your pricing strategy. For small business owners, especially women, setting high prices can be uncomfortable, because we're worried that clients and prospective clients will walk away. However, underpricing your services is like setting yourself up for failure before you even start. Pricing isn't just about picking a number that sounds good; it’s abou...2024-10-2900 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 67 - Achieve Profit Without Burnout: 3 Essential KeysWelcome back, business leaders! Today, I'm starting a new series on escaping burnout and hustle, a topic I've been hearing a lot about online. When you're caught in a cycle that drains you of time, energy or money to keep your business functioning, it can seem impossible to cut down your workload without sacrificing profit. Remember that this cycle can't last because we're humans, not machines. (Think about it - even machines need a break!) Listen in and hear my idea for what business owners should do instead of aiming for the highest growth rates possible.
If...2024-10-2221 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 66 - Uncover the Truth: Are You Wasting Time as a Small Business Owner?What's your framework for understanding how you are spending your time as a business leader? In this episode, I'll introduce you to my 4E framework, which breaks tasks down based on how much mental effort they take on your part, and whether they are "just getting things done" or making decisions for the future of your business. Many entrepreneurs, including myself, often get caught up in the day-to-day grind, but it's important to give ourselves time for the thinking tasks, even if they don't give us immediate results.
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00:00 Work smarter, not harder, with 4E...2024-10-1517 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 65 - How to Effectively Convert Business Challenges into Profitable OpportunitiesToday, it's time to flip the script on our frustrations in business and focus on the freedom that we set out to achieve! Use your struggles as a piece of data to measure how well you are doing and how you can redirect your course. What do I mean by this? If your schedule is full now, remember that your business shouldn't be running you; you are running it. Use your feelings now to help you decide on a more sustainable strategy. If you're overwhelmed now, instead of giving up, believe that you can commit to a reasonable amount o...2024-10-0818 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 64 - Stop Spinning Your Wheels: How to Focus on What Matters Most for Business GrowthDo you know which tasks are the most important for your business growth? Think of your business like a garden full of plants that need watering. Which ones need the most attention to create the garden you want? The best way to determine what your priorities are for your business is to compare the tasks on your plate to your business goals. In this episode, I'll give you a framework for how to take your broader business aspirations and convert them into specific, measurable, and achievable goals. I'll also add in some tips on avoiding distractions as you work...2024-10-0114 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 63 - How to Escape the Busywork Trap as a Small Business OwnerWelcome back, CEOs! Many of us have fallen into the trap of believing that we have to push ourselves to work more hours in order to achieve our goals. However, if we examine how we use our time, we might discover that a lot of the tasks we think are important are actually not the best use of our skills, or worse, they're not even contributing much to our business. I'll share my own experiences with learning to judge which tasks were worth my time and dedicating time blocks to top-priority work. Listen in and explore practical steps to...2024-09-2426 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 62 - Is Your Schedule Holding Back Your Business' Future Growth Potential?It's so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks that consume our time consistently, but when we look back, we might find we've been spinning our wheels instead of approaching our businesses like leaders. Today, I'm going to flip the script on how you manage your time. Instead of dealing with urgent tasks as they come, determine the one thing that matters most in your business, and make a commitment to spend time every week on that. After all, if it's not in your schedule, how can you say it's the most important thing in your business...2024-09-1721 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 61 - 5 Easy Steps to Free Yourself from the Hustle and GrindWelcome back, business leaders! Today I want to talk about why the advice we're commonly given, "Just keep pushing," is not a guarantee of success. Too many of us are spending way too much time on work, enough time to burn us out. Is this in line with the freedom you were hoping for when you started your business? Let's reframe the way we look at time and stop measuring productivity based on how many hours we work. What if distractions, multitasking, and unplanned commitments are using up more than half of your time? Then, you could adjust your...2024-09-1016 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 60 - Growth Hour: Boost Your Business With This Simple StrategyWelcome back, ambitious business owners! Today, I'm sharing a simple yet powerful strategy that has helped me front-load my week with revenue-generating activities. I'll be diving into the Growth Hour, a powerful tool to transform your productivity. By prioritizing tasks and allocating a time for important but non-urgent tasks, you'll ensure that high-ROI business activities get the time and dedication they deserve, every week. Join me and learn this method to take control of your time!
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Feeling burnt out from your endless busywork? Want to leave behind the hustle and grind and focus on what t...2024-09-0315 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 59 - Finding Time For Strategic Growth: It Is Possible!Spending time in your business doesn't always grow your business. Do you have so much client work to complete that you spend all your time doing it? If so, you're probably strapped for time to spend on teaching your audience, marketing, and creating new products. Instead of telling ourselves that we have no time, let's take action to make time! Listen in for strategies on how to understand the current distribution of your time and prioritize blocks each week for growth tasks. Get ready to amplify your CEO power!
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Feeling burnt out from your endless...2024-08-2718 min
Getting to the Bottom Line: Conversations to help business owners maximize revenue, profit, and cash flowCEO Hacks for Small Business Success with Donna DubeUnlock the secrets to optimizing your business with actionable strategies from the experts! In this episode of Getting to the Bottom Line, I'm thrilled to welcome Donna Dube, owner of CEO Amplify, who shares her remarkable journey from project management to becoming an operational consulting guru. We dive into the essentials of strategic planning and foundational processes that are crucial for any business aiming to enhance revenue and profitability. Donna introduces the innovative "idea parking lot" system, a practical tool designed to help manage new ideas and maintain focus on core business goals.Discover the art of...2024-08-2133 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 58 - Your Money Story: How to Rewrite It For GoodIs your financial mindset holding you back? Today, we're discussing how the "rules" you've learned about money through your life experiences might be affecting the decisions you make now as a small business leader. Are all of these rules true, or do you need to look back and critically rethink them? Listen in as I guide you through how to rewrite your money story and open yourself up to new opportunities in your business.
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Feeling burnt out from your endless busywork? Want to leave behind the hustle and grind and focus on what truly matters?2024-08-2014 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 57 - My Favorite Way to Maximize Business Profit and Pay Myself ConsistentlyWelcome back, business leaders! In today's episode, we're looking to the bottom line by delineating the difference between revenue and profit. Profit is often overlooked in favor of chasing higher revenue numbers, but it's crucial to have a strategy to pay yourself consistently. This will enable you to cover your personal expenses and support the life you want with confidence. Here, you'll learn 3 methods I use to help myself and my clients claim their profit and keep it from draining into other places. Listen in and amplify your CEO skills by planning ahead to secure your profit!
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Feeling burnt out from your endless busywork? Want to leave behind the hustle and g...2024-08-0615 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 55 - Stop Missing Out on Profit: Discover How to Thrive in the Summer SeasonWelcome back, business leaders! In this episode, I'm sharing my top tips on how to successfully navigate a season where your routine changes, balancing family time and hitting your revenue goals. As summer brings a slowdown in work for many of us, it's crucial to set clear intentions and goals that take both your personal and business needs into account. You'll want to make some notes on this one! I'll walk you through 5 key questions to help you define your non-negotiables, iron out your revenue target, and understand how seasonal goals connect with your yearly objectives. If you hope...2024-07-3019 min
The Real Women Real Business PodcastCEO Expertise: Thrive Without Sacrifice with Donna DubeWhat if you could transform from a solopreneur to a thriving CEO without sacrificing your personal well-being? Join us as we sit down with Donna Dube, a certified director of operations and the host of the CEO Amplify Podcast. Donna sheds light on the critical mindset shift that small business owners need to adopt to see themselves as visionaries and strategists, regardless of their business size or revenue. We tackle the common struggles faced by "accidental CEOs" who are driven by passion but overwhelmed by operational challenges, offering actionable insights to navigate the chaos of the online business world.2024-07-2338 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 54 - 6 Tips to Make Time for Business Growth Without Sacrificing Everything ElseWelcome back, driven leaders! Many of us start our businesses with dreams of freedom and flexibility, but end up working harder and longer as time goes on, still only managing to maintain our current position. Let's adopt smart strategies to reclaim our time so we can invest in the projects that will drive growth! In this episode, I dive into 6 powerful ways to work smarter and break through those growth ceilings that might be holding you back. I share my own journey and the mindset shift I made from believing in sheer hard work to realizing that success is...2024-07-2317 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 53 - Master Project Completion in 10 Action-Packed StepsWondering how to ensure your project ideas are carried out to success? In this week's episode, I'll be sharing strategies to help you stay focused, organized, and motivated from start to finish. Effective project management skills will help us entrepreneurs focus on a project and bring it to completion, whether it's a business project or even something in our home. Starting out by defining the project, breaking it down into small manageable chunks, blocking time in your schedule, regular reviews... trust me, you don't want to miss out on these practical tips that will elevate your project planning and...2024-07-1625 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 52 - Unlocking the Power of Empowered Teams: The Key to Unstoppable GrowthWelcome back, CEOs! Today we're diving into the essential topic of empowering your team for unstoppable business growth. I'll guide you through the strategies to transition from day-to-day operations to strategic leadership, while clarifying your goals with your team so they understand the "why" behind changes. When your team members understand the big picture and know you've chosen tasks that fit their skills, they'll be more motivated to take on new responsibilities. You'll also learn about delegating meaningful tasks, providing clear guidelines, and fostering open communication, all of which are vital components for creating a thriving and empowered team...2024-07-0926 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 51 - Scaling Your Business Through Operational ExcellenceScaling your business quickly is a dream for any business leader, but without the right preparation, it can quickly turn into a nightmare. If you don't have the operational foundation to support your business growth, the quality of your offers, and your reputation, will suffer. Don't think of operational excellence as a chore, but rather as an investment in your brand. In this episode, I'll teach you how to walk through the processes in your business and figure out where you need to make changes to handle increased customers smoothly. Preparing your systems to take on more traffic efficiently i...2024-07-0215 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 50 - Decoding the Hiring Process: When to Bring In New TalentWelcome back, business leaders! In our 50th episode, we're diving into the crucial topic of hiring. I'll be sharing a simple three-step process to help you determine if and when it's the right time to expand your team. We'll discuss the financial, tactical, and strategic aspects of hiring, because bringing in new talent isn't just about filling a role - it's about strategically growing your business. If you're a solopreneur feeling overwhelmed, if you already have a team, or if you're just looking to make a strategic investment in your business's future, listen in and learn how hiring can...2024-06-2518 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 49 - Maximizing Your Success: Tips for Implementing a Mid-Year ReviewAre you looking for more information about whether you're really on track for your business goals? In this episode, we're talking about the process of a mid-year review of your goals. We'll look back over each month, assess what you were doing in each month, and evaluate your progress on each goal. To optimize your workflow for the rest of the year, focus on the efforts that brought you results in Q1 and Q2. Remember, it's okay to reevaluate and adjust your goals! This is part of the process of setting expectations that stretch you out of your comfort...2024-06-1842 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 48 - A Complete CEO's Guide: Top Steps to Take After Setting Your Revenue GoalWelcome back, CEO (that's you)! In this episode, I'm diving deep into the numbers of your business to help you determine what next steps you need to take to reach your revenue goal. It's time to know based on the math what you need to sell, at what price point, and how many clients you need. Using the "Get Paid Like a CEO" resource as a guide, I'll walk you through different sales mechanisms, conversion rates, and why it's important to focus on your core signature offer to simplify and amplify your business growth. Don't miss out on tuning i...2024-06-1123 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 47 - Effective Strategies for Setting Revenue Goals: Tips for Small Business OwnersWelcome back, CEOs! In this episode, we dive into the crucial topic of setting effective revenue goals for your small business. I'll be sharing insights on how to balance personal time and health alongside business responsibilities. Before you begin to calculate your revenue goals, you need to consider your personal cost of living and desired take-home income. Remember that your revenue is probably not anywhere near your take-home pay, but you do get to set your own salary as a business owner, so choose a revenue goal that will give you the salary you need and want. I'll be...2024-06-0435 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 46 - Proven Ways to Prevent Shiny Distractions and Boost Business GrowthDo you need someone to help you avoid getting distracted when you set new projects for your business? In this episode, we're talking about shiny distractions - those tempting new ideas that can lead entrepreneurs astray. Fortunately, having a trusted sounding board alongside you will help you recognize and avoid shiny distractions. Learn how to choose the right person to work alongside you in your business and guide you away from alluring, but distracting new ideas. Work together with your team to stay focused on the long-term goals that will drive your business forward.
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Enjoying this podcast...2024-05-2820 min
She Is A Leader - The PodcastCEO Strategies That Won't Sacrifice Your Sanity With Donna DubeThe line between work and life nowadays is increasingly blurry. Unfortunately, a lot of new CEOs and business owners, often find themselves juggling numerous responsibilities, leading to stress and worst of all - burnout. But what if there was a different way to approach this all-too-common scenario? What if you can choose the path that helps you to lead and grow your business, without sacrificing the balance between your professional career and personal well-being? Meet Donna Dube, our amazing featured guest, who lives and breathes this philosophy. Tune in as...2024-05-2428 min
Stuck In My Mind PodcastEP 234 Overwhelmed to Empowered: Donna Dube's Entrepreneurial ShiftIn this episode of the "Stuck in My Mind" podcast, Wize El Jefe sits down with Donna Dube, a business growth strategist and former nurse, to explore her entrepreneurial journey and the insights she has gained along the way. The conversation delves into Donna's transition from nursing to entrepreneurship, where she discovered a passion for helping business owners navigate the complexities of growth and sustainability.
Donna's unique blend of project management skills and experience homeschooling her children gave her a fresh perspective on business development. Witnessing the struggles of seemingly successful business owners inspired Donna to focus...2024-05-2452 minCEO Amplify | Small Business Operations, Time Management, Business Systems, Business StrategyEp 45 - Why Delegating Tasks to Others is the Key to Effectively Empowering Your TeamDo you feel that you shouldn't delegate tasks to your team because it would be easier and faster to do them yourself? In this episode, we're diving deep into the crucial topic of effective delegation and empowering your team. I'll be tackling the common fear of delegating tasks and the harmful cycle of micromanaging, explaining how it can hinder your business growth and inflate your work hours. Listen to real-life scenarios of how to trust and empower your team, freeing you from the daily details and allowing you to refocus on your vision and reclaim your freedom. Effective delegation r...2024-05-2117 min
Mindset & Action: Grow and Streamline Your BusinessMastering Work-Life Balance as a Digital CEO with Donna Dube | EP233Send me a Text MessageEver feel like you're on a never-ending treadmill trying to grow your online business? Donna Dube stops by the Mindset & Action podcast with a fresh perspective that could just get you to step off and take control like a true CEO. She’s dishing out a sneak peek into her strategy for scaling without burnout, emphasizing the power of prioritizing time, talent, and tactics. As Thursday's full episode awaits, Donna leaves us with golden nuggets about the mindset shifts necessary for anyone ready to lead their venture with more intention and less pe...2024-05-2010 min