Shows
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business259. 5 Ways to Increase Your Consulting Capacity Without Working MoreAs an independent consultant, you don’t need more hours. You need more capacity. And those aren’t the same thing.If your calendar is full but your revenue still feels capped, it’s not because you’re missing a productivity hack. It is because you’re treating capacity like it is only about time. In this episode, Melisa breaks down five levers you can leverage to increase what you can handle, deliver, and earn, without adding more work to your week.Melisa talks about why delivery can swallow your ability to grow, why “busine...
2026-02-2636 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business257. The Consultant Trap: “I Should Know Better”You help clients solve the exact problems you're avoiding in your own business, and a single phrase is keeping you stuck."I should know better." You've probably said it about your pipeline, your pricing, your business development habits, or that operational issue you keep putting off. It sounds like self-awareness. Maybe even humility. But Melisa Liberman makes the case that this thought is quietly costing you clients, revenue, and confidence.In this episode, Melisa breaks down why independent consultants are uniquely prone to this trap. You're literally paid...
2026-02-1220 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business253. How Consulting Demand Really Gets Created (It’s Not How You Think)Most independent consultants still believe that demand is something that just happens - a tap on the shoulder from a former colleague, a random recruiter message, or an invitation from a past client. That’s opportunistic demand, and while it can create revenue, it won’t create real predictability or growth.In this episode, Melisa breaks down how demand is actually created and why most consultants are unintentionally sabotaging it.She introduces the concept of the Owner-Led Demand Engine, a systematic, strategic process for engineering consulting demand on purpose, even when you'r...
2026-01-1532 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business252. What Consultants With Predictable Pipelines Do DifferentlyIf your pipeline feels like a roller coaster — overflowing one quarter and dry the next — this episode is for you.Most independent consultants chalk pipeline unpredictability up to market conditions, luck, or not being good at sales. But that’s not the real problem. The difference between consultants with predictable pipelines and those without? They think and operate differently.In this episode, Melisa breaks down the Four Pillars of Pipeline Predictability so you can identify the hidden gaps in your business and start closing them. She also shares the most common mistakes...
2026-01-0827 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business251. The Shifts That Will Create a Breakthrough Year in Your Consulting BusinessThe Shifts That Will Create a Breakthrough Year in Your Consulting BusinessA breakthrough year doesn’t come from working harder, getting luckier, or finding the perfect strategy. It comes from changing how you think and operate as a business owner.In this episode, Melisa walks you through why most consultants never experience a true breakthrough year. Not because they’re incapable, but because they keep running their business from the same mental operating system that created their current results.If you’ve hit a plateau or you keep setting bigger goals...
2026-01-0134 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business249. How to Think About Business Investments for Next Year as an Independent ConsultantAs an independent consultant, you’re your own investor of time, money, and attention. But are you investing at the level of your goals, or are you treating your business like a paycheck?In this episode, Melisa unpacks how to approach business investments for the coming year with a CEO mindset, not an employee mindset. She breaks down the five-step strategy to build a clear, aligned investment plan and highlights the most common (and costly) mistakes consultants make when it comes to investing in their business.You’ll hear Melisa share personal stories (including a rook...
2025-12-1831 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business245. Sustainable Lead Generation That Works for ConsultantsIs it possible for lead generation to be sustainable for independent consultants who are wearing so many hats in their businesses?What does a sustainable lead generation process look like?In this episode, Melisa breaks down why so many consultants fall into the start/stop lead generation cycle and end up creating feast or famine in their businesses. It’s because their lead generation strategy, routines, and mindset are not sustainable.You’ll learn why outsourcing or automating your lead gen isn't a silver bullet, and what you need before you consider those opti...
2025-11-2036 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business244. The Real Reason Your Consulting Pipeline Isn’t PredictableIf you’ve ever felt like your pipeline is out of your control, this episode is for you.It’s common for independent consultants to think an unpredictable pipeline is just “how this works.” But that belief keeps them stuck in feast or famine, working with clients who underpay, don’t fully value their expertise, and leave their skills underused.In Episode 244, Melisa reveals what’s really going on beneath a stop-and-start pipeline and how to create consistency that lasts, no matter the market or your bandwidth.This episode breaks down the three root causes...
2025-11-1330 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business241. Stop Decision Debt: Why “Let Me Think About It” Costs You"Let me think about it."It sounds harmless. Strategic, even.But for independent consultants, that phrase can quietly erode revenue, momentum, and confidence.In this episode, Melisa breaks down the hidden toll of decision debt, which is the backlog of unmade choices cluttering your mental inbox. From pricing delays to lingering red-flag clients, these non-decisions drain your bandwidth and reinforce the status quo.Melisa walks you through the mindset traps keeping you in limbo, and shares a simple but powerful framework to clear the backlog and prevent future debt from accumulating.
2025-10-2332 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business239. Turning Expertise into a Book: How (and Why) Consultant LeAnne Lagasse Finally Did ItIf you've ever said, “One day I’ll write a book,” this episode is your call to stop waiting and start writing. LeAnne Lagasse joins Melisa to walk through the real process of writing and launching a book as a consultant, including the parts no one talks about.LeAnne doesn’t sugarcoat the process. From decision fatigue to imposter syndrome to learning how to repurpose your workshop content into a compelling written format, she shares what it takes to go from idea to finished product.More importantly, Melisa and LeAnne dig into why a book is...
2025-10-0956 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business238. The 3-Step Formula to Land Consulting Clients in Q4Even though the year is wrapping up and vacations take over, landing consulting clients in Q4 doesn’t have to be hard.Q4 isn’t a write-off.When Q4 rolls around, many consultants either start to panic that they won’t hit their revenue goals or they ease off the gas because they’ve already met them. These approaches can cost you momentum and opportunity.In this episode, Melisa Liberman walks you through a simple three-part framework to help you finish the year strong: Choosing what to sell that fits the season, Creating a...
2025-10-0225 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business237. Make the Most of Your Business Owner Thinking TimeThinking Like a Business Owner Isn’t Just a Mindset. It’s a Skill.Most independent consultants know they should think like a business owner, but what does that actually look like day to day?In this episode, Melisa introduces a simple yet powerful strategy: Business Owner Thinking Time. You’ll learn how to move beyond reacting to tasks or relying on AI to think for you, and instead carve out time to think strategically and guide your business like a CEO.Melisa shares five practical ways to stru...
2025-09-2528 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business234. The #1 Management Mistake Independent Consultants MakeWhat if the biggest obstacle in your consulting business… is your own management approach?Most independent consultants left corporate to get away from bad managers, but end up recreating that dynamic for themselves.In this episode, Melisa uncovers the #1 management mistake she sees independent consultants make again and again: becoming a “ghost manager” in their own business.She walks you through the five components of being a good self-manager so you can stop unintentionally sabotaging your business and start building consistent, high-quality results.You’ll learn to recognize where you’re disappeari...
2025-09-0434 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business233. The Big Leadership Mistake Independent Consultants MakeIf you're like most independent consultants, one of the reasons you left corporate was to get out of managing. You wanted to avoid the team drama, the politics, the performance reviews.So it makes sense if you’ve put “leadership” in the rearview.But here’s the trap: when you assume leadership no longer applies, you create a blind spot that quietly undermines your consulting business.In this episode, Melisa explores what happens when consultants opt out of leadership, not intentionally but by default, and how that decision limits your growth, momentum, and confiden...
2025-08-2829 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business232. The Mindset Behind a Million-Dollar Independent Consulting Business (Part 2)If you want to run a consulting business that feels lighter and more in your control, you need to start thinking like a million-dollar business owner, before your business is anywhere near that level.This is part two of my series on the Million Dollar Mindset. In part one (Episode 231), we covered the first two pillars of the million dollar consultant’s mindset. Today, we finish the two-part series with the remaining four ways of thinking that separate a $200K consultant from one who can confidently generate and sustain a $1M consulting business.The...
2025-08-2137 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business231. The Mindset Behind a Million-Dollar Independent Consulting Business (Part 1)If you’ve been stuck at the same revenue level in your consulting business, whether that’s $200K or $500K, it’s probably not your sales skills or your pipeline holding you back. It’s your mindset.Too many independent consultants unknowingly run their business from the same thinking that created their current or even past results. That mindset is misaligned with their goals and quietly caps their revenue.In this first of a two-part series, Melisa breaks down the real difference between a $200K consultant mindset and a million-dollar consultant mindset, and exactly how you can...
2025-08-1434 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business230. Overcoming a Revenue Plateau in Your Consulting BusinessAre You Hitting a Revenue Plateau in Your Independent Consulting Business?You might be stuck in a revenue plateau right now.Maybe it’s obvious. Your consulting revenue has been flat year over year.Or maybe it’s hidden. Your numbers might be technically going up, but you could still be hitting a plateau you didn’t even realize existed. Either way, this episode is for you.I’m breaking down the five hidden causes of revenue plateaus for independent consultants and the exact mindset and business shifts re...
2025-08-0739 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business229. Most “Business Problems” Aren’t Business ProblemsThat lead generation issue you’re trying to fix with a new strategy? That pricing problem you’re solving with more market research?They’re probably not business problems.They’re likely mindset problems disguised as business problems.In this episode, Melisa gets into the real root cause behind most consulting business problems. It’s not your offer. It’s not your process. It’s not the market. It’s how you think.She shares a candid story about her own stubborn resistance to mindset work, the costly consequences, and how shifting...
2025-07-3132 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business228. Becoming a Sought-After Independent Consultant with Rachel HughesTwelve years into her consulting career, Rachel Hughes has built a business that attracts inbound leads, top-tier engagements, and industry recognition, without sacrificing her sanity or freedom.In this episode, Melisa talks with Rachel about the mindset and strategy shifts that transformed her from overthinking and reactive to intentional and in-demand. Rachel opens the doors to her consulting practice, sharing how she thinks about niche, lead generation, pricing, mindset, and evolving as a business owner, especially as an independent consultant running a global business without full-time staff.You’ll hear how Rachel made herself the go...
2025-07-2446 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business227. The Thought Leadership Engine Hiding in Your Consulting WorkIf you’re avoiding thought leadership because you “don’t know what to say”, this episode is your turning point.In Episode 227, Melisa dismantles the most common blocker independent consultants face when it comes to publishing thought leadership: not knowing what to share, or fearing they’ll just add noise. She introduces a powerful mindset shift and practical system to consistently generate valuable, original content straight from your day-to-day consulting work.This isn’t about carving out time you don’t have. It’s about extracting insight from conversations and deliverables you’re already doing, so y...
2025-07-1738 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business226. Design a Powerful Second Half for Your Consulting BusinessYou’ve made it halfway through the year — now what?Too many independent consultants either stay the course out of habit or abandon their goals altogether. In this episode, Melisa walks you through a five-step framework to recalibrate and intentionally design a second half that actually aligns with what you want, not just what you committed to back in January.This isn’t just another planning session. It’s a reset opportunity: to reassess what’s working, reimagine what’s possible, and realign your goals and mindset so you don’t end the year in burnout or dis...
2025-07-1029 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business225. The Future of External Talent: What Enterprise Buyers Want Now with Brian HoffmeyerWhat are enterprise buyers really looking for in 2025 when they bring in external talent? This week, Melisa is joined by industry veteran Brian Hoffmeyer (known as “Hoff”), who returns to the podcast to share invaluable, behind-the-scenes insights from his vantage point at Beeline, the world’s largest independent vendor management system.Whether you're working directly with enterprise clients or supporting mid-size firms, this conversation gives you the macro trends you need to know in order to position yourself as the obvious choice. You'll hear why independent consultants are gaining momentum (despite a flat contingent labor market...
2025-07-0342 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business224. The 6-Figure Pipeline Playbook with Ellie HolbertThink building a seven-figure consulting pipeline in just 16 weeks is impossible? Think again. In this episode, Melisa Liberman sits down with Ellie Holbert, a first-year independent consultant, who shares the real story of how she went from zero pipeline and a canceled contract to 56 opportunities and a multi-seven-figure funnel without prior sales experience.Ellie lays out the practical steps and mindset shifts that fueled her meteoric start, including how she reframed rejection, established peer-to-peer relationships with C-suite executives, and reached decision-makers at brand-name companies through a consistent, imperfect action strategy.Melisa an...
2025-06-2650 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business223. Custom GPTs for Consultants: Scale Your Thinking, Not Just Your TasksIt’s common for consultants to think of AI as a tool to boost efficiency, enhance insights, automate tasks, and improve client deliverables. It can help you scale your processes and routines.But have you also considered that AI can help you scale your thinking?In this episode, Melisa talks with Amanda Long, marketing strategist and custom GPT builder, about how consultants can create private GPTs to capture their intellectual property, streamline delivery, and scale their businesses without adding headcount. We share examples from my own business, including how we built a podcast pos...
2025-06-1945 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business222. Adding Physical Products to a Consulting Business (Part 1)Most consultants think physical products are only for authors or e-commerce brands, not for them. In this episode, Melisa challenges that assumption head-on and takes you behind the scenes of a new physical product line she’s launching.This isn’t a product pitch, it’s a case study. She’s sharing the full backstory of why she started this, what’s working, what surprised her, and how she’s thinking about integrating physical products into her consulting business long-term.If you’ve ever thought:“I don’t have a unique enough framework.”“I’m too much of a generalis...
2025-06-1242 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business221. From Accidental Consultant to Strategic Advisor: Lessons from Alison JeffreyWhat if your consulting business wasn’t meticulously planned, but evolved from one bold decision after another?In this episode, Melisa talks with longtime client Alison Jeffrey, a strategic fundraising consultant, about how Alison went from leaving a full-time job with no safety net to building a seasonal, profitable business rooted in authenticity, intention, and relationships.Alison shares candidly how she stopped chasing “good enough” clients, redefined what success looks like (even when walking away from high-paying work), and leaned into her natural strengths as a strategist, connector, and advisor not just a fundraiser.Whet...
2025-06-0552 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business220. 3 Steps to Increase the Value of Your Client Delivery Approach (with AI Prompts)Client delivery is one of the most critical — and underleveraged — parts of your consulting business. In this episode, we walk through a practical, three-part framework to increase the value of your delivery, both for your clients and for your business.Most independent consultants tell me they feel confident once they land the work. But that doesn't always translate into knowing how to position your delivery as a value driver — something that generates referrals, repeat business, and higher pricing.This episode is your blueprint for transforming delivery from a transactional projec...
2025-05-2935 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business219. Quick Win Approach to Land Consulting ClientsSometimes you need a client win — fast.Whether it’s to refill your pipeline, create a cash infusion, or just shake off a dry spell, this episode walks you through how to create and implement a quick-win strategy that actually works (and doesn’t feel like a scramble).We’re not talking about discounting your value or saying yes to low-quality consulting client leads. This is about designing a repeatable, strategic approach that positions you for fast client conversions — and long-term growth.You’ll learn the Fo...
2025-05-2232 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business218. Stop “Checking In”: How Successful Consultants Manage Follow UpDoes this situation sound familiar to you?You send a consulting proposal. Or you email your one-pager, expecting a next step. Then — silence.You don’t hear back.If you’re questioning your follow-up strategy, not sure what to do to follow-up, this episode is for you.In this week’s episode, Melisa dismantles the outdated (and ineffective) habits independent consultants fall into when it comes to follow-up. You'll hear how to approach follow-up in a way that adds value and reinforces your expertise — instead of second-guessing, worrying about being annoy...
2025-05-1531 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business217. Fixing the Wrong Problem in Your Consulting BusinessYou solve problems. That’s what you do best as a consultant.But what if you’re focused on solving the wrong problem in your own consulting business?In this episode, Melisa breaks down a counterintuitive truth: many consultants plateau or underearn not because they don’t have solutions, but because they’re solving problems they’ve already outgrown.Melisa shares a real client case study that illustrates how thought errors can keep you solving yesterday’s problems and sabotaging your current and future growth. You’ll walk away with a new lens for as...
2025-05-0828 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business216. Identifying Leaks in Your Consulting Business Development ProcessWhat if the biggest reason you're not hitting your revenue goal has nothing to do with strategy — and everything to do with tiny, invisible breakdowns in your business development process?In this episode, I walk you through the concept of “leaks” in your consulting business — those points where value, opportunity, or efficiency is lost without you even realizing it. These leaks aren’t just annoying; they dilute your revenue, add unnecessary stress, and make your business harder to run than it needs to be.We’ll cover eight common types of leaks that affect indepe...
2025-05-0131 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business215. Independent Consulting Business Retreats, Productizing, Mid-Funnel Focus, and More with Claire ElversWhat if you could run a corporate retreat... for a company of one? That’s exactly what independent consultant and brand strategist Claire Elvers did. In this episode, Claire joins Melisa to share why she carved out the time and space to take her business offline — and what she learned from zooming out.This conversation is packed with real talk about the real work of running a consulting business:Facilitating a productive, impactful retreat for your solo consulting business,Why consultants often neglect mid-funnel strategy (and the impact of doing so), How to cre...
2025-04-2448 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business214. A Unique Consulting Business Growth Tool with Matty BakkerenWhat if the most valuable tool in your consulting business is one you already have — and didn’t even realize?In this episode, Matty Bakkeren joins Melisa to share his early-stage consulting business experience as an independent consultant and the strategies he uses to create momentum in his business.From listening to this podcast in his car to building his own consulting practice — Matty gives us a grounded, behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to start and grow a consulting business.Whether you’ve just exited corporate or are con...
2025-04-1751 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business213. The 4 Components of a 50k Per Month Independent ConsultingAre you curious what it takes to consistently earn 50K per month as an independent consultant? In this episode, host Melisa Liberman reveals the four key components you need to implement in your consulting business to create a consistent 50k per month consulting business.She outlines how to create an aligned offer, attract high-quality demand, shape your identity as a sought-after expert, and take focused, decisive action. To help you put the episode into action, Melisa provides actionable questions to help refine your approach and start seeing real growth.If you're co...
2025-04-1041 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business212. Succeeding as a Fractional Consultant with Alessandro PregnolatoWant to know the secrets behind a successful fractional consulting business?Learn how to build trust, sell yourself as a fractional leader, and land high-value clients.In this episode, Melisa Liberman chats with Alessandro Pregnolato, a seasoned fractional consultant. Alessandro is one of Melisa’s clients and has established himself as an in-demand fractional leader for start-ups and companies looking to scale quickly and efficiently. Melisa and Alessandro discuss what it takes to succeed in the fractional space. They explore key strategies for selling your services, managing demand, and growing your cons...
2025-04-0346 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business211. How to Use a Podcast to Land Consulting ClientsDo you want to generate inbound leads for your consulting business? Do you want a path to meeting your ideal clients?In this episode, host Melisa Liberman shares how to leverage a podcast for consulting lead generation. She shares four simple steps to put this lead gen strategy into action and record your first episodeDiscover the proven strategies top consultants use to leverage podcasts for effective lead generation within the unique consulting business model.Plus, get the inside scoop on the tools and tech Melisa uses to keep everything running smoothly, so...
2025-03-2739 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business210. Managing Your Consulting Business through KPIsDo you advise your consulting clients to leverage KPIs but don’t apply the same strategy to your own business?You’re not alone.In this episode, host Melisa Liberman explains how to implement Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to manage your consulting practice more effectively. Melisa outlines the power of a simple consulting KPI dashboard and shares real-world examples of KPIs, such as financial tracking, lead generation, and operational efficiency. She discusses how these metrics can bring clarity, guide decisions, and help independent consultants avoid running their businesses based on feelings or intuition....
2025-03-2025 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business209. The 7-Minute Lead Generation Routine for your Consulting BusinessAre you struggling to find time for lead generation? What if you could fill your pipeline in just 7 minutes a day?In this episode, host Melisa Liberman shows you how to do just that. Melisa breaks down the common obstacles independent consultants face when it comes to lead generation and shares a game-changing strategy to overcome them. You’ll learn how dedicating just 7 minutes to one focused lead-generation action per day can rapidly fill your pipeline with ideal clients. Plus, she’ll walk you through actionable success strategies to ensure you maximize your result...
2025-03-1321 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business208. Becoming a Client Sherpa with John HealyAre you an independent consultant or a fractional executive aiming to grow your business?Have you ever thought about how much easier it would be to land consulting clients if you could understand exactly what buyers are looking for?Don’t miss episode 208, where I, Melisa Liberman, talk with John Healy, Chief Executive of Whrrr.work. John brings a comprehensive 360-degree perspective to consulting, leveraging his current roles as a fractional executive and strategy consultant, along with his past experience as a staffing company executive and a buyer of consulting services in corporate staffing. J...
2025-03-0652 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business207. Leveraging a Campaign to Generate High-Quality Leads for Your Consulting BusinessWhen you think of a "campaign," your mind might immediately go to ads. But, in today's episode, Melisa talks about campaigns as a way to center your business development and lead generation activities around a specific theme so you can more effectively fill your pipeline as an independent consultant.Melisa defines the concept of a campaign in the context of an independent consulting business and shows how it can become the driving force behind your lead generation efforts. Creating a repeatable process and leveraging theme-based outreach can attract the right clients and elevate th...
2025-02-2737 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business206. Choosing the Best Lead Generation Strategy For Your Consulting Business PhaseOne of the primary focuses for consulting business owners is generating high-quality leads. What’s the secret to being effective at generating high-quality leads in a way that’s also sustainable and repeatable?The secret to effective and sustainable lead generation is based on what phase your consulting business is in.In this episode, Melisa shares how independent consultants should approach lead generation based on the phase your business is in. She explains how to choose the best strategy and warns consultants about common mistakes that could derail your lead generation efforts. Meli...
2025-02-2042 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business204. Leveraging Relationship Marketing to Fill Your Consulting Pipeline with Sara MacauleyMastering relationship marketing can lead to significant revenue opportunities in your business. You might think it either comes naturally to you, or it doesn’t.That’s not the case.You can learn and improve your relationship marketing skills, as a path to grow your consulting business.In today's episode, Melisa is joined by Sara Macauley, principal consultant and owner of Kindred Strategic, a consultancy that works with oil, gas, renewable energy, and software companies to grow their businesses. Sara's expertise in relationship marketing goes beyond just connecting with potent...
2025-02-0639 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business203. Taking a Leave as an Independent Consultant with Anushka ChhayaIf you're an independent consultant, the idea of taking time off—whether it's for maternity leave, a sabbatical, or just a much-needed break—probably raises some big concerns.Is it even possible to step away? Will your business still be there when you come back?In this episode, I’m talking with Anuska Chhaya, the founder of Chhaya Consulting, who recently navigated maternity leave after the birth of her second child. She shares her firsthand experience of balancing a new baby with a growing consulting business, and how she successfully managed to take time off without derailing her bus...
2025-01-3037 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business202. How to Build a Consulting Business That Lasts: Lessons From 200 Episodes & 12 Years in Business (Part 2)As independent consultants, we're all on a journey of growth and learning. It's easy to feel isolated when things don't go as planned, but the truth is, we all face setbacks in our business. In the second episode of her series on lessons learned from 200 podcast episodes and 12 years in business, Melisa shares her experiences working as an independent consultant and coach.She highlights the challenges independent consultants commonly encounter and offers practical insights for avoiding the same mistakes she made. Whether you're just starting out or running a successful consultancy, Melisa's candid reflections will help you...
2025-01-2340 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business201. How to Build a Consulting Business That Lasts: Lessons From 200 Episodes & 12 Years in Business (Part 1)Making the leap from a corporate job to becoming an independent consultant is a big step—and it can feel overwhelming. Building a thriving consultancy takes time, and like any entrepreneur, you'll face challenges, make mistakes, and experience growing pains along the way. In this first episode of a two-part series, Melisa reflects on 12 years of consulting and 200 podcast episodes, sharing five valuable lessons to help you navigate the ups and downs of building a sustainable independent consulting business.Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale your consulting business, Melisa's insights will help you...
2025-01-1640 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business200. What's Possible for your Consulting BusinessWelcome to a special milestone episode—#200! Are you limiting your potential as an independent consultant? You might be surprised at what’s truly possible for you—whether it’s doubling your income, hitting $1M in revenue, or building a consulting business that fulfills you in ways you never imagined.In this episode, Melisa dives into why understanding what’s possible is critical for independent consultants who want to achieve more. She shares five real-life success stories from her clients, illustrating how expanding their vision unlocked incredible results—from remarkable revenue growth to creating a more balance...
2025-01-0943 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business199. You’re Not Starting OverFor many independent consultants, entering a new year can feel like starting over. While starting over can initially feel exciting, it can quickly sabotage your business if you’re not careful.In this episode, Melisa points out the dangers of thinking you’re starting over and shares actionable strategies to break the start-over cycle.This is an important concept for your business beyond the start of a new year. This “starting over” cycle applies to a new year and also to key inflection points in your business, such as launching your business and adding ne...
2025-01-0231 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business198. Key Trends to Watch in 2025 for the Independent ConsultantUnderstanding key trends can be the difference between staying ahead or falling behind in your consulting business. In this final episode of 2024, Melisa Liberman breaks down the six essential trends that will shape independent consulting in 2025, helping you position your business for greater success.You'll learn why these trends matter and get practical strategies to leverage them in your business. If you want to stay competitive and grow your consulting practice in 2025, this episode provides your strategic roadmap.In This Episode:Why the growing number of independents creates opportunityHow AI and automation...
2024-12-2631 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business197. Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet as an Independent ConsultantPlanning for 2025 can be the difference between another year of incremental growth and transformational success in your consulting business. In this episode, Melisa Liberman breaks down the five essential steps to make 2025 your best year yet, helping you move beyond basic goal setting to create real, sustainable growth.You'll learn why traditional planning approaches often fail independent consultants and get a practical framework for setting yourself up for success. If you're ready to make 2025 different from years past, this episode provides your roadmap.In This Episode:How to set vision-aligned goals that...
2024-12-1945 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business196. Land More Consulting Clients by Avoiding This Common Sales Mistake (Hint: It's Not An Interview)Are you making a common sales mistake that's costing you clients and credibility? In this episode, Melisa Liberman reveals why letting potential clients take the lead in your sales process undermines your expertise and provides practical strategies to position yourself as the trusted advisor from the first conversation.You'll learn why many independent consultants fall into this trap and get actionable steps to take control of your sales process. If you find yourself constantly responding to client requests rather than leading the conversation, this episode will transform your approach to consulting sales.I...
2024-12-1235 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business195. Best Practices for Leveraging a CRM in Your Consulting Business with Gosia FitzGeraldManaging your consulting pipeline effectively can be the difference between feast-or-famine and predictable revenue. In this episode, Melisa interviews Gosia Fitzgerald, co-founder and CFO of OnePageCRM, who shares insider knowledge on how successful consultants track and convert leads without getting overwhelmed by complex systems.You'll learn why many independent consultants struggle with pipeline management, common mistakes to avoid, and practical solutions that work specifically for independent consultants. If you've been tracking leads in spreadsheets or wondering if you need a CRM, this episode provides clarity and actionable steps forward.In This Episode:
2024-12-0536 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business194. How to Feel More Confident: Overcoming the Chicken and the Egg EffectDo you find yourself waiting to feel confident until you land the next client or hit a certain revenue goal? This common "chicken and egg" effect keeps many consultants stuck in a cycle of self-doubt. In this episode, Melisa Liberman breaks down why waiting for external validation is holding you back and provides practical tools to build authentic confidence that drives results.In This Episode:Why confidence matters more than experience or credentialsThe dangerous cycle of waiting for external validationWhere true confidence really comes fromThe BE-DO-HAVE framework for authentic confidenceA practical tool to implement...
2024-11-2830 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business193. Being In Control of Your Consulting Business ResultsTaking control of your consulting business results can be the difference between stagnation and growth. In this episode, Melisa Liberman breaks down why consultants often feel powerless against external factors and provides a practical framework to regain control of your business outcomes, regardless of economic conditions or market timing.You'll learn how to identify where you're making excuses, develop an ownership mindset, and get actionable steps to take back control of your results. If you've been feeling at the mercy of external circumstances, this episode is your roadmap to renewed business confidence.In This...
2024-11-2134 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business192. Generating a Steady Flow of Inbound Leads for Your Consulting BusinessInbound lead generation can be the difference between a thriving consulting business and a stagnant one. In this episode, Melisa Liberman breaks down the essential strategies to attract leads who actively seek out your expertise, so you can spend more time on meaningful work and less on chasing down potential clients.You’ll learn the prerequisites to drive inbound leads effectively, develop the right mindset, and get actionable steps you can start implementing today. If you’ve been wanting to bring in more business without the constant hustle, this episode is your roadmap.In...
2024-11-1447 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business191. The Benefits of Being Your Own Consulting ClientIn this episode of Grow Your Independent Consulting Business, Melisa Liberman dives into a transformative mindset shift—treating your business as your own best client. She shares some practical steps and strategies that independent consultants can adopt to ensure they prioritize their business growth and maintain consistency in their operations.Key Topics Covered:Why you should view your business as one of your clients.The four major benefits of applying this mindset.Tactical and logistical ways to onboard and engage with yourself as a client.Real-life case studies showcasing this practice in action.Strategies fo...
2024-11-0736 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business190. How to Create Excess Demand for Your Consulting BusinessIn this episode of Grow Your Independent Consulting Business, Melisa Liberman digs into creating and managing excess demand for your independent consulting business. She covers why generating more demand than you can handle is a powerful strategy that allows you to build a business that’s both scalable and sustainable. Melisa walks through her “Excess Demand Protocol,” designed to help you navigate demand challenges and turn them into opportunities for growth, increased pricing, and greater client selectivity. In This Episode:Defining "Excess Demand" and its role in consulting successWhy more demand than you can...
2024-10-3139 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business189. Bridging a Contact into a Consulting Lead: Your BLCS ToolAre you struggling with turning contacts into consulting leads? This is a common issue for many independent consultants who struggle to move a conversation from a general connection into a valuable business opportunity. In this episode, Melisa Liberman shares her BLCS tool to help you take control of your pipeline and unlock more consulting opportunities.Melisa breaks down the common mindset blocks that hold consultants back from making this shift, along with practical steps to break through these barriers. If you’ve been stuck in the friend zone with potential clients or unsure how...
2024-10-2438 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business188. Thinking of Yourself as a Managing Partner: A Gamechanger for Your Consulting Business ResultsAre you ready to take your consulting business to the next level? In this episode, Melisa Liberman shares a powerful mindset shift that can help you make more money, land better engagements, and set yourself up for long-term success: thinking of yourself as the managing partner of your independent consulting business.Melisa explains into what it means to adopt the managing partner mindset, how it can change the way you prioritize your time, and the strategies that will help you generate more fulfilling client relationships. This mindset will allow you to maximize your i...
2024-10-1734 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business187. The 5 Techniques to Avoid Taking on Non-Ideal Clients in Your Consulting BusinessAre you struggling with taking on non-ideal clients as an independent consultant? In this episode of the "Grow Your Independent Consulting Business" podcast, Melisa Liberman breaks down actionable steps to help you avoid signing non-ideal clients, even when it’s tempting to accept work for cash flow.You will hear about four essential tools to filter your clients better and protect your consulting business from regret. Melisa also shares strategies for dealing with the emotional and financial costs of working with clients who don’t align with your vision or compensation floor. Finally, learn...
2024-10-1041 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business186. How a Consulting Buyer Thinks About Engaging Independent Consultants with Ran Harpaz the CEO and Founder of Lettuce.coCan you successfully balance fractional work while building a sustainable business of one?In this episode, Melisa Liberman sits down with Ran Harpaz, CEO of Lettuce, to explore the unique dynamics of running a solo consulting business while taking on fractional roles. With a background in tech and startups, Ran shares invaluable insights from his experience working both as an independent consultant and as a leader building tools to support solopreneurs.Ran discusses how fractional consultants can build long-term business success, why flexibility is a competitive advantage, and how to shift from a...
2024-10-0354 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business185. Using AI to 10x Your Independent Consulting Business (and much more) with Gabrielle TenagliaAre you paying too much in taxes as an independent consultant? You might be leaving money on the table without even realizing it. In this episode, Melisa is joined by Gabrielle Tanaglia, a seasoned fractional CMO and head of marketing at Lettuce, who shares invaluable insights about tax savings strategies, building a sustainable consulting business, and how to leverage AI tools to streamline operations.Gabrielle dives into her own experiences, from overpaying taxes to discovering how an S-Corp can save you thousands of dollars each year. She explains how Lettuce simplifies tax management f...
2024-09-2647 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business184. Developing Your Employer of Choice Business Model as an Independent ConsultantDo you ever think about what it would mean to design your consulting business to be an employer of choice—for yourself? Often, we think about employer branding in terms of large organizations, but it’s just as important for independent consultants and small boutique firms.In this episode, Melisa Liberman explores how to intentionally design your business so that you are creating an environment that offers competitive compensation, work-life balance, and meaningful opportunities for growth. Melisa shares actionable strategies that you can use to ensure your business supports your personal and professional life as if you were...
2024-09-1937 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business183. Consulting Clients You Could Be Overlooking & Why They MatterHave you been overlooking important clients in your consulting business? It's common for independent consultants to provide valuable services to clients and not "count" them for their business. In this episode, Melisa Liberman dives deep into how recognizing overlooked clients—whether it’s side gigs, unpaid work for a spouse, or volunteer positions—can transform your consulting practice.Melisa shares personal experiences, including how recognizing her own overlooked clients changed her approach to client management and improved her business. By the end of this episode, you’ll learn how to identif...
2024-09-1232 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business182. How to Increase Your Consulting Pricing: A ToolWhy are some consultants able to charge an effective rate of $500+ per hour while others are stuck at $120 or $200 or $250?Many independent consultants face the challenge of increasing their rates, feeling constrained by industry norms or self-imposed personal limitations. In this episode, Melisa Liberman dives deep into the mindset shifts and practical strategies needed to raise your consulting fees and break through your pricing ceiling.She introduces a powerful tool—your pricing set point—to help you rethink how much you charge and why. Whether you're billing hourly, daily, project-based, or value-based, this tool...
2024-09-0535 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business181. Transforming Into A Boutique Consultancy with Tradewinds LeadershipWondering if you and your partner can build a thriving consulting business together?Running a consulting business as a couple comes with its own unique challenges and opportunities. It’s normal to worry about balancing your personal and professional lives, especially when you’re also trying to niche down and grow a sustainable practice.In this episode, Melisa Liberman sits down with Stephen Dummit and Olivia Leigh of Tradewinds Leadership to discuss how they navigated these challenges. They share their journey from generalists to niche experts and how they balance their relat...
2024-08-2957 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business180. Doubting if Independent Consulting Is Worth It? Here's What to DoAre you questioning the sustainability of your consulting business?It's common for independent consultants to second-guess their decision to pursue a solo business, especially when the ups and downs of running a business feel like such a big responsibility.In this episode, Melisa Liberman tackles the emotional and mental challenges independent consultants face when trying to grow their businesses. She dives deep into the mindset needed to overcome hurdles and find the resilience to push forward, even when the journey gets tough.In This Episode:Does t...
2024-08-2238 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business179. 3 Ways to Sell Executive Coaching as an Independent ConsultantAre you overlooking a valuable service offering in your independent consulting business?In this episode, Melisa Liberman discusses a commonly ignored service offering that independent consultants should consider adding to their portfolios.If you're struggling to find ways to increase revenue and stand out as an independent consultant while also making a meaningful difference in your clients' lives, you'll definitely want to listen carefully to this episode.Melisa addresses the common misconceptions and obstacles that prevent consultants from offering this valuable service, and shares compelling reasons why it may be the...
2024-08-1531 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business177. Managing Emotional Debt to Avoid Self-SabotagingAre you feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unfulfilled in your consulting practice?In this episode, Melisa Liberman discusses the concept of emotional debt and how it can negatively impact your consulting business results. IN THIS EPISODE:You will understand the concept of emotional debt and its impact on your consulting business.Be able to recognize the signs of accumulated emotional debt, such as increased stress and decreased joy.How emotional debt can affect your capacity, the types of work you take on, and the long-term sustainability of your practice.This i...
2024-08-0130 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business176. Set a Compound Goal for Sustainable Consulting Business GrowthAre traditional goal-setting methods working for your consulting business?In this episode, Melisa Liberman dives into the challenges faced by independent consultants in setting and achieving sustainable goals. She reveals how typical goal-setting can lead to self-sabotage. Then, she shares a tool you can use to avoid building an underperforming, unsustainable, unpredictable, and/or plateauing consulting business.IN THIS EPISODE:Learn why traditional goals can lead to self-doubtUnderstand the “compound goal” tool. Including its 4 componentsLearn how to set goals such that you don’t have to choose between making money and ha...
2024-07-2533 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business175. Quantifying the Value of Your Expertise: A Case Study for Independent ConsultantsStruggling to Quantify the Value of Your Expertise as an Independent Consultant?Do you want to move into value-based pricing but don’t know where to start?In this episode, Melisa Liberman digs into a case study that reveals the common challenges independent consultants face when trying to quantify their expertise’s value. If you’re stuck in the cycle of time-based pricing, fear you’re underpricing, or worry your clients won't agree on the value, this episode is a must-listen.Melisa tackles these challenges head-on and opens up a behind...
2024-07-1829 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business174. How to Launch a Consulting Business in 10 Steps (PART 2)Want to set a strong foundation for your consulting business?In this episode, part two of a 2-part series, Melisa walks you through the steps to land clients.This episode goes back to basics.If you're new to consulting, it will help you launch your consulting by setting a strong foundation.If you're an established consultant, the episode will help you strengthen your client acquisition processes so you land clients more predictably.IN THIS EPISODE:Learn practical tactics for meeting potential clients...
2024-07-1134 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business173. How to Launch a Consulting Business in 10 Steps (PART 1)Are you wanting to know the best way to start or relaunch your consulting business?In this episode (part one of a two-part series), Melisa covers the 10 essential steps to set you on the path to a successful consulting business. This episode dives into the first six critical steps.In This Episode:Uncover the initial struggles of putting your business on legal and operational footing. Melisa explains why you should focus on vital basics rather than the common distractions that “seem productive”, but aren’t.Understand the importance of articulating your unique value propos...
2024-07-0436 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business172. Filling Your Pipeline, Landing Ideal Consulting Clients, and Turning Away Work with Abbie DuBoisWant to fill your consulting pipeline in 45 days?Want to go from a dry pipeline to landing more opportunities than you can handle?In this episode, Melisa Liberman invites Abbie DuBois to discuss how she made massive changes in her business over the course of 3 months, including filling her pipeline, landing direct clients, and learning to effectively juggle working on the business with working in the business.Not only does Abbie share her successes, she is transparent about the challenges she faced and how she overcame them.IN THIS EPISODE
2024-06-2740 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business171. Make the Most of Professional Events: Strategies to Generate More Leads as an Independent ConsultantWant to generate leads by attending professional events but not sure how?Do you question the value of attending professional events as an independent consultant? Are you unsure how to maximize your time and investment when you're at these events, whether they are virtual or in-person?In this episode, Melisa addresses one of the most common dilemmas independent consultants face: is attending events really worth it, and how can you ensure that you're getting the most out of them?How do you turn events from awkward into productive?
2024-06-2032 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business170. Being Ghosted as an Independent ConsultantDo you find yourself being ghosted by potential clients? Does the silence after initial interest leave you feeling confused and questioning your ability to sell your consulting services?In this episode, Melisa sheds light on the perplexing and frustrating phenomenon of being ghosted, giving you the insights you need to navigate this common, yet challenging, part of consulting.Are You Struggling With:Mental Agony: Is being ghosted taking a toll on your mental and emotional well-being, leaving you drained and demotivated?Follow-Up Strategies: Have you been b...
2024-06-1335 min
Grow Your Independent Consulting Business169 - Taking a Sabbatical as an Independent Consultant with Ashley RyallFeeling burned out and uninspired as an independent consultant? Are you constantly managing an overwhelming number of responsibilities without finding fulfillment or new challenges?In this episode, features guest Ashley Ryall who shares her experience taking a sabbatical as an independent consultant.In This Episode:When to take a sabbatical as an independent consultantAre you pushing through burnout and feeling disconnected from your work? Do you feel like your business is taking over your life?Ashley shares what led her to take a sabbatical.
2024-06-0644 min