Shows
The Aspiring Solopreneur217. Don't Skip This Step: The Secret To Building A Solo Business You'll LoveIf you’re ready to create a business that supports your life instead of running it, this is the episode you need. Carly and Joe dive into Step Zero of the Solopreneur Success Cycle: Defining Your Goals, and spoiler alert: it’s way deeper than “make money” or “gain freedom.”You’ll learn how to uncover your true why, build goals that actually guide your decisions, and avoid creating a business you secretly resent. From toddler-style questioning to "change charts" and accountability hacks, this episode is your blueprint for building a business you actually like.Whether y...2025-08-0712 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur216. Start Here: The Solopreneur Blueprint You Didn’t Know You NeededEver feel like you're building your solo business one guess at a time? In this episode, Carly and Joe pull back the curtain on the Solopreneur Success Cycle, the foundational framework behind their new book Solopreneur Business for Dummies. From defining your goals (hello, Step Zero!) to tweaking, refining, and reimagining your business as it grows, they break down the entire cycle designed specifically for one-person businesses. It's not a lecture, it’s a roadmap with a healthy side of real talk, laughs, and lessons you can apply right away. Whether you buy the book or...2025-08-0510 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur214. It’s Not Me, It’s You: How to Break Up with Problem ClientsEver had a client that made you question your life choices? In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly and Joe dive deep into the art (and science) of firing problem clients without burning bridges—or your sanity. From subtle red flags to graceful exits, they’ll help you figure out when it’s time to say, “It’s not me, it’s you.” Whether you're drowning in scope creep or stuck with a client who’s just not a fit anymore, this episode is your permission slip to let go and level up.
Okay, this might...2025-07-2910 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur211. The One “Corporate” Habit You Should Bring With You As A SolopreneurWhen 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 curveballs to simply freeing up brain space for more important things (like remembering where you hid your coffee), they’ll share how documenting your processes can make your solo business run smoother, and maybe even grow faster. Whether...2025-07-1707 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur209. How LinkedIn Sales Navigator Became Our Secret Weapon for Solopreneur Lead GenThink 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 money on a tool like this, Joe’s breakdown might just change your mind.Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most busine...2025-07-1009 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur207. Your Rates Are Too Low—Let’s Fix ThatAre 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 why bargain-hunting clients might be costing you more than they’re worth.Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get noticed. Most business advice is for bi...2025-07-0311 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur206. The Solopreneur’s Guide to Product Management Without a TeamWhat 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—without hiring a team. From treating AI like a co-founder to building minimum viable products in record time, they reveal how to apply modern product management principles (yes, solopreneurs—you are product managers!) to s...2025-07-0123 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur205. How to Prioritize When Everything Feels Urgent as a Solopreneur - Sound Bite EpisodeEver 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 Things Done, and a little “delegate, automate, AI” magic. If you’re stuck in constant hustle mode, this episode might just be the breath of clarity you need.Being a solopreneur...2025-06-2612 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur203. Flip-Flops and Focus Blocks: Beating Summer Distractions as a Solopreneur - Sound Bite EpisodeSun’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 for getting stuff done without missing out on the season. Tune in for laughs, life hacks, and a reminder that flying solo doesn’t mean doing it all alone.Being a solo...2025-06-1912 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur201. The Anti-Sleaze Sales Guide For Solopreneurs: How to Actually Win People OverTired 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 authentically, and sell without feeling like a pushy used car dealer. If you've ever rolled your eyes at a LinkedIn message, this one's for you.Being...2025-06-1212 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur197. Solopreneurs, Stop Winging It and Get Your Systems TogetherReady 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 your processes can free up your schedule, boost your brand, and give you more time for what matters. Tune in for the must-have tips to make your solo busi...2025-05-2909 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur196. High Peaks to Rock Bottom: Reinventing Yourself When Life Hits HardIt 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 resilience, identity shifts, and the power of building a life (and business) around what truly matters.If you've ever faced a setback that rocked your world—or are in...2025-05-2726 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur194. The Escapepreneur's Blueprint To Working From Anywhere And Loving What You DoIn 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 just want out of your Groundhog Day routine, this conversation will have you rethinking what’s possible, and maybe even booking a one-way ticket.Being a solopreneur is aw...2025-05-2029 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur193. Have A Solo Business and Struggling? These Rookie Moves Might Be WhyEver 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 a business that actually works for your life. Bonus: Get the inside scoop on their upcoming book Solopreneur Business for Dummies!Being a solopreneur is awesome...2025-05-1513 min
The Aspiring Solopreneur191. [Re-Release] The Roadmap to Reliable Income for Every Solopreneur - Sound Bite EpisodeFeeling 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 financial stability, reduce your selling time, and focus on doing what you love.This episode offers creative strategies and insights to make recurring revenue work for you. So, be sure to tune in!Bein...2025-05-0809 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur187. Future-Proof Your Solo Biz: Stay Relevant Without Losing Your Mind - Sound Bite EpisodeIf you're still getting your business advice from that one guy on LinkedIn who hasn't updated his profile since 2014... this episode is your wake-up call.We're diving into what it really means to future-proof your solo business—and spoiler: it’s not just about hopping on the latest tech trend. From decluttering your feed to actually talking to your audience, Carly and Joe share no-fluff strategies to help you stay ahead without burning out.Whether you’re overwhelmed by AI hype or stuck in scroll mode, this episode will help you cut through the no...2025-04-2410 min
The Aspiring Solopreneur185. [Re-Release] Why Hosting Events May Be A Solopreneur's Best Marketing Tool Yet - Sound Bite EpisodeHosting events has been an absolute game-changer for lead generation and building genuine connections. Joe and Carly are huge fans of taking something as simple as a webinar, giving it a little makeover, and calling it an “event.” Trust us, it makes a world of difference! When you frame it as an event, it instantly feels more exciting and engaging—not just for your audience but for you too.Events create real value for participants and foster a sense of community that’s hard to replicate. There’s just something special about coming together, sharing ide...2025-04-1808 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur183. The Soloprenur's Secret to High-Converting Virtual Events - Sound Bite EpisodeThink you need a big budget and a bigger team to run successful virtual events? Think again.In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando pull back the curtain on how their small group consistently uses virtual events to generate leads, build trust, and grow their community—without the overwhelm. From low-tech tools (spoiler: Zoom wins again) to their secret sauce for nurturing attendees before, during, and after the event, they’re dishing out practical tips any solopreneur can use.Whether you’re planning your first interactive workshop or looking to boost...2025-04-1014 min
The Profitable SolopreneurExpert Guest: The Solopreneur Success Cycle - Joe Rando🎙️ Podcast Title: The Solopreneur Success Cycle with Joe Rando
Host: Mike Mall
Guest: Joe Rando, Founder of Lifestarr
🔑 Episode Highlights
00:00 – Getting Started & Joe’s Background
Mike and Joe reconnect after filming together on Joe's platform.
Joe shares his entrepreneurial origin story: from building shopping center software to co-founding and exiting Trade Area Systems.
06:00 – Building Tools for Solopreneurs
Frustration with existing tools led Joe to start developing a flexible, collaborative task management app.
Realized solopreneurs lacked a central hub—this pivoted into building Lifestarr, a pla...2025-04-1025 min
The Aspiring Solopreneur181. [Re-Release] The Roadmap to Reliable Income for Every Solopreneur - Sound Bite EpisodeFeeling 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 financial stability, reduce your selling time, and focus on doing what you love.This episode offers creative strategies and insights to make recurring revenue work for you. So, be sure to tune in!Bein...2025-04-0309 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur179. Beyond Hourly: Creative Ways to Make Money as a Solopreneur - Sound Bite EpisodeTired of trading time for money? Think your only pricing options are hourly or retainer? Think again.In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando are breaking open the revenue model box. From subscription models to productized services, online courses to scalable solutions, they’re sharing the creative—and often overlooked—ways solopreneurs can make bank without burning out.Carly reflects on her early pricing struggles, Joe takes us back to a pre-Internet SaaS story that flopped (then flourished), and together they dish out practical advice for building income that doesn’t rely o...2025-03-2808 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur178. Sales Tips for Solopreneurs Who Hate Selling with Nikki RauschWhat if selling didn’t feel salesy at all?In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly and Joe sit down with the brilliant Nikki Rausch, creator of the Selling Staircase and queen of relationship selling. Nikki breaks down how to ditch the pushy tactics and build trust through smart questions, real conversations, and—get this—actually asking permission to sell. (Novel concept, right?)She spills the tea on the biggest sales mistakes people make (yes, those cringey LinkedIn messages) and how to flip the script with connection-first strategies that feel genuinely good—even if you’re t...2025-03-2623 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur176. When to Hustle, When to Rest: The Solopreneur’s Guide to Longevity - A Sound Bite EpisodeFeeling overwhelmed? Struggling with writer’s block? You’re not alone. In this short episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando get real about those days when motivation is nowhere to be found. They dive into the power of stepping away, reconnecting with your “why,” and knowing when to push through versus when to pivot. Plus, they share insights on burnout, mindset shifts, and the importance of having a solopreneur community to lean on. If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I keep going or call it quits?”—this episode is for you. Tune in now! 2025-03-1308 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur174. Smart Strategies for Solopreneurs Balancing Work, Life, and Sanity - Sound Bite EpisodeFeeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone! It’s easy to get buried in the chaos. But what if you could actually plan your week in a way that keeps you productive and sane? In this short episode, Carly Ries and Joe Rando break down strategies for prioritizing tasks, staying flexible, and avoiding the dreaded to-do list burnout. Plus, the simple mindset shift that will have you ending each day feeling like a rockstar! Hit play and let’s get your week under control!Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard...2025-03-0610 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur171. How We Built LifeStarr (Without Breaking the Solopreneur Rules!) - Sound Bite EpisodeEver wondered how LifeStarr operates behind the curtain? In this episode, Carly and Joe peel back the layers, answering your burning questions about how they make money, work with contractors instead of employees, and navigate the challenges of running a business while keeping flexibility at the core. Plus, they tease some BIG things coming soon—including an exciting way for solopreneurs to find the right people to work with. Oh, and did we mention a book deal? 🎉If you're a solopreneur (or thinking about becoming one), this is a must-listen. Tune in no...2025-02-2013 minThe Aspiring Solopreneur169. Solopreneurs, Stop Drowning in Tasks—Here’s Your Lifeboat - Sound Bite EpisodeFeeling overwhelmed by emails, tasks, and an endless to-do list? You're not alone! In this sound bite episode, we dive into Getting Things Done (GTD)—a life-changing productivity system that can help you clear mental clutter and take control of your work.Joe Rando shares how he discovered GTD out of pure necessity and how its simple yet powerful framework transformed the way he works. If you’re struggling to stay organized and productive, this episode is a must-listen!Being a solopreneur is awesome but it’s not easy. It's hard to get...2025-02-1308 min