Shows
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Turn Customer Conversations Into Your Most Powerful Marketing AssetSend a textWhat if your brand story isn’t wrong… it’s just not in your customer’s language?In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Castner to unpack why most businesses are projecting instead of listening — and how that’s costing them. We talk about turning real client conversations into powerful brand stories, why scripted testimonials fall flat, and how to find your “unfair advantage” hiding in plain sight.If you’ve ever wondered why your messaging isn’t landing the way it should, this one might change how you think about storytel...
2026-02-2443 min
The Aspirant PodcastThe Secret Killer Lurking in Your BusinessSend a textWhat’s the thing in your business that’s quietly draining you… but not quite painful enough for you to deal with it yet?In this short episode, Natasha explores why we tend to tolerate the very things that slowly steal our energy, focus, and presence and how waiting for a breaking point can cost more than we realize.Using a personal story as a jumping-off point, this episode invites you to look at what you’ve been managing, avoiding, or “just dealing with” and ask a different question: what would change...
2026-02-0311 min
The Aspirant PodcastWhy Smart People Stay Invisible Longer Than They ShouldSend a textEver notice how some of the most skilled, experienced people you know are... barely visible online?Meanwhile, someone half as qualified seems to be everywhere, booking clients left and right?Here's the uncomfortable truth: talent doesn't equal visibility. And if people can't see you, they can't hire you.Today, I'm pulling back the curtain on why smart, capable people stay hidden way longer than they should — and the specific mindset patterns that keep brilliant entrepreneurs playing small.In this episode, I...
2026-01-2725 min
The Aspirant PodcastThe Low-Lift Way to Expand Your Visibility in 2026Send a textIf you’ve been thinking about growing your authority this year but don’t want to start another big project, this episode is for you.Today, Natasha is sharing one of the simplest ways to expand your visibility and credibility without creating more content, launching a podcast, or writing a book. It’s a strategy that works especially well if you want to be seen as an expert, but prefer a lighter, more sustainable approach.In This Episode, You’ll Hear About• A low-lift way to build auth...
2026-01-2011 min
The Aspirant PodcastMarketing & Business in 2026: Trust, Voice, and the Return to Real ConnectionSend a textSomething feels different already.The content is louder, faster, and more automated than ever… and yet trust feels harder to find. People are pulling back. Social feels heavier. AI is everywhere. And a lot of what used to work doesn’t land the same way anymore.In this episode, Natasha shares what she’s noticing beneath the surface as 2026 begins. Not trends pulled from headlines, but patterns showing up in how people engage, who they trust, and where they’re choosing to spend their time and energy.This is a con...
2026-01-1514 min
The Aspirant PodcastVisibility That Actually Leads SomewhereSend a textThe Aspirant Podcast is back for Season 2.This season is about stepping out of the noise and into authority. Building that visibility you’ve been craving that connects to real impact and income. If you’ve been doing the work, showing up consistently, and still feel like your momentum hasn’t caught up yet, you’re in the right place.Expect more solo episodes, deeper conversations, and more resources for feel-good visibility and business building. Subscribe to The Aspirant Podcast and join me on the journey.Neve...
2026-01-0612 min
The Aspirant Podcast3 Things You Need to Know About Burnout, Boundaries, and Being WellSend a textIf your mornings start with doom-scrolling and your days end with “I’ll rest when life calms down,” this episode is your re-center. Natasha sits down with coach and shadow-work facilitator Helena to unpack a simple, powerful pyramid for a fulfilling life now—spiritual alignment, emotional well-being, and world service—so you can show up to your business and relationships with grounded energy (not hustle hangovers).We’re getting real about:Morning inputs that set your tone: why any pre-scroll ritual beats a perfect one—and how 10 minutes can fli...
2025-11-0429 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Hire the Right VA Without Losing Your Mind: A Simple, Stress-Free PlaybookSend a textIf you’ve ever thought “I need help—but what kind?” this episode will clear the fog. I sit down with Virtual Assistant veteran Rachael Davila (20+ years in the field) to unpack how to hire smarter, onboard better, and actually get your time (and sanity) back.In this episode you’ll learn:Why hiring fails more often from mindset than skill — and how to move from solopreneur to teampreneur.The difference between onboarding and offloading (and why onboarding wins every time).A practical roadmap: break goals → projects → tasks and use Do...
2025-10-0726 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Systemize Your Solo Biz Without Killing Your CreativitySend a textIn this episode, I’m joined by Jessi, an operations strategist and expert Asana consultant who helps businesses and nonprofits streamline the way they work. With her blend of emotional intelligence and sharp systems thinking, Jessi shows founders how to build workflows that feel like scaffolding, not a cage—so you can stay creative, delegate confidently, and actually take a breath in your business.We’re getting real about where to start (hint: what’s painful or costly), which tools won’t overwhelm you, and how to hand things off without losing control.
2025-09-2317 min
The Aspirant PodcastMindset, Mechanics, and Motion for Sales That StickSend a textSales isn’t just about closing deals. It is about the questions you ask, the mindset you bring, and how you use tools like AI to create real connections and lasting impact.This week I’m joined by Merit Kahn, Certified Speaking Professional, sales expert, emotional intelligence authority, and creator of the one woman comedy show Optimistic Personality Disorder. We dive into the intersection of sales, emotional intelligence, and AI and why the right balance of tech and human touch is the key to thriving in business today.Meri...
2025-09-0236 min
The Aspirant PodcastYour Website’s Not Broken, But Search Is ChangingSend a textIf you’ve heard that SEO is dead, you’re not alone, but it’s far from true. In this episode, I’m joined by SEO expert and agency owner Stella Morrison of The Stellastro Effect to talk about how AI is changing the way people search for information and what that means for your website, visibility, and long-term marketing strategy.We dive deep into:What AI overviews are and how they’re impacting your click-through ratesWhy ChatGPT isn’t replacing Google (yet)The SEO fundamentals that still matter...
2025-08-1946 min
The Aspirant PodcastOne LinkedIn Profile, More than One Business: How to Show Up Without Confusing PeopleSend a textIf you run more than one business or have a personal brand alongside your company, you’ve probably asked: Should I split them up on LinkedIn?The short answer — not always.In this quick episode, I share how to decide whether to combine your businesses and personal brand under one LinkedIn profile or keep them separate. You’ll hear two real-world client examples — one where the audiences were so different that separation was the only way to protect the brand, and another where the personal...
2025-08-1305 min
The Aspirant PodcastFrom Stuck to Standout: How to Rebrand, Recharge, Reinvent Your BusinessSend a textFeeling stuck in your business? Or like you just aren’t landing the clients you want (or used to)? In this episode, I’m joined by Topaz Hooper, founder of American Copywriter Co, who recently rebranded her own business and now helps global companies launch and grow in the U.S. market. Whether you’re feeling bored, misaligned, or just sensing it’s time for a change, this conversation will help you get clear on what’s next! We’re talking about: The key signs it’s time to rebrand...
2025-08-0537 min
The Aspirant PodcastGetting Booked and Building Buzz with Podcast ToursSend a textIn this episode, I’m joined by visibility strategist Jenn from Visibility Ecosystem to talk about one of the most underutilized marketing tools out there — podcast tours. Whether you’re launching something new, trying to expand your reach, or just plain tired of social media, this episode breaks down how podcast guesting can help you build buzz and attract dream clients.We talk about:What a podcast tour actually is Why smaller, niche shows might bring you better results than the big namesHow to prep your funnel and tracking before you start p...
2025-07-3036 min
The Aspirant PodcastThe Generalist’s Dilemma: How Laurie Went from Undefined to UnforgettableSend a textIf you’ve ever found yourself spiraling in “I could do anything for anyone!” energy—but still wondering why your dream clients aren’t knocking—this one’s going to hit home.In today’s episode, I’m joined by my long-time creative partner and fellow strategist, Laurie Peterson—who recently did something that took her over 15 years to do: finally name and clearly position her consulting brand. We’re getting real about what makes it so hard to define our own niche (even when we do it for others!), the fears...
2025-06-2521 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Stand Out and Build Real Relationships on LinkedInSend a textLinkedIn doesn’t have to feel like a corporate suit you’re squeezing into.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, underqualified, or just downright awkward about showing up on LinkedIn, this episode is the breath of fresh air you need.I’m joined by the brilliant and down-to-earth Sue Gresham (aka “The LinkedIn Lady”), who breaks down what it really takes to build visibility and relationships on the platform, all while leaning into your own secret sauce. We talk about:Why you don’t have to post daily t...
2025-06-1728 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Ditch the Chatter and Find Your True VoiceSend a textAre you ready to stop second-guessing yourself and start speaking with bold, authentic confidence? In this episode of The Aspirant Podcast, we’re joined by the amazing Jen Oliver, a TEDx speaker coach and champion of real, heartfelt expression and connection. She’s here to share how to uncover your true voice—whether you’re pitching a client, sharing your story on stage, or communicating something important in your personal or romantic life. Jen’s dropping truth bombs on how to quiet the mental noise, connect with your body, and show up as the true...
2025-06-1236 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Stop Overthinking and Start Taking Action in Your BusinessSend a textEver get stuck in a spiral of “what ifs” that stops you from moving forward in your business? You’re not alone and this episode is exactly what you need to give you the motivation and know how to do something different next time.Today, I’m joined by Elizabeth Dodson, co-founder of the tech company HomeZada, to talk about how to stop overthinking, trust your gut, and make bold decisions (even if you’re scared). With over 25 years in tech and business development, Beth brings real talk on staying grounded, reflecting on what wo...
2025-06-0344 min
The Aspirant PodcastMy Journey Into Entrepreneurship Started with Cards and ChocolateSend a textWhat do handmade greeting cards and holiday truffles have to do with entrepreneurship?In this special solo episode, I’m taking you back to the early days of my business journey, back before I ever even knew, or dreamed where I’d be today! From childhood creative projects to unexpected pivots, this is my story and how I got here. Maybe this episode inspires you to reflect on your own early days. What were the unexpected experiences or skills you were gaining that you never imagined would be laying the groun...
2025-05-2718 min
The Aspirant PodcastCrickets on Launch Day? Why Your High-Ticket Offer Isn’t SellingSend a textIf you’ve ever poured your heart into a high-ticket offer and launched it—only to hear crickets—you are so not alone!In this episode, Business and Growth Strategist Melissa Glick joins us to break down what’s really happening when your best offer flops and how to course-correct fast. From building buyer-ready pipelines to leveraging curated events, we dig into the real strategies that convert, all while maintaining that real, relational approach. You’ll learn:Why your offer might be falling flat (and how to adjust it fast)How to...
2025-05-1333 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow I Booked Two High-Quality Clients in Two Months Using Facebook GroupsSend a textFacebook groups might seem oversaturated or chaotic—but they’re far from dead. In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I landed two high-quality clients through Facebook groups. I’ll walk you through what actually worked, the mindset shifts that made a difference, and how you can use these free spaces more strategically to get leads without being spammy.If you’ve been feeling discouraged and like you’re getting passed up in Facebook Groups, this one is for you!WHAT YOU’LL LEARNThe small shif...
2025-05-0712 min
The Aspirant PodcastHow to Break the Fear Cycle and Build Real Resilience as an EntrepreneurSend a textFeeling stuck in fear or overwhelmed by the entrepreneurial hustle? This is all too common, and luckily, there are tools and strategies to help make the weight of it all a little lighter! In today’s episode, we’re getting real about what it actually takes to build emotional resilience as an entrepreneur (hint: it’s not about "working harder").Natasha sits down with psychotherapist Anissa Cordova, PhD, to talk about the messy, human side of business ownership—navigating discomfort, handling rejection, and staying grounded in a world that often pulls us...
2025-04-2955 min
The Aspirant PodcastWhat the Founder’s Journey Really Looks Like For a Working Mom with Iron Orchid Design’s Sally GriswoldSend a textWhat if the hardest season of your business was actually the beginning of your next big breakthrough?In this episode, I’m joined by Sally Griswold, co-founder of Iron Orchid Designs (IOD), a globally beloved DIY brand known for creating some of the most beautiful and innovative decor tools on the market for furniture flipping and craft. Sally shares Iron Orchid Design’s journey of being two sisters licensing their designs to a larger company to becoming the multi-million dollar small business they are today. From the burnout that sparked a bold pivo...
2025-04-2447 min
The Aspirant PodcastWhat No One Tells You About Messaging (And Why It’s Costing You Clients)Send a textIf writing about your business feels harder than taxes with a toddler… you’re not alone.Messaging and copywriting trip up even the savviest entrepreneurs! In this episode, I’m joined by brand messaging strategist and website copywriter Stacy Eleczko for a convo that will totally change the way you think about how you talk about your business.We’re pulling back the curtain on what actually makes copy convert—and why so many entrepreneurs are skipping the foundational steps that make marketing way harder than it needs to be....
2025-04-0226 min
The Aspirant PodcastWhy Your Business Needs Insurance—Even If You Have an LLC with Alexandra LammersSend a textIf you think having an LLC means you don’t need business insurance, think again! In this episode, we’re busting that myth with insurance expert Alexandra Lammers. Whether you're an online service provider, coach, or product-based business owner, protecting yourself (and your business) is non-negotiable.We’re breaking down the must-have policies, the biggest misconceptions about liability, and why having insurance isn’t just about protecting your business—it’s also about protecting your personal assets (and other people!). Plus, Alexandra shares the one type of insurance most business owners overlook (but absolute...
2025-03-1219 min
The Aspirant PodcastSEO Basics Every Entrepreneur Should KnowSend a textSEO can feel like an overwhelming maze of keywords, algorithms, and technical jargon—especially for solopreneurs who don’t yet have the budget to hire an expert. But what if optimizing your website didn’t have to be so complicated?In this episode, I sit down with SEO strategist Jeff Wilson to break down simple, actionable steps that any business owner can take to improve their website’s visibility. From creating content that attracts the right audience to structuring your pages for search engine success, Jeff shares practical insights that won’t require ex...
2025-03-0427 min
The Aspirant PodcastWhy You’re Struggling to Stay Organized (And What to Do About It)Send a textFeeling scattered, overwhelmed, or struggling to follow through on tasks? You’re not alone! Whether you have ADHD or just find it hard to stay on top of everything as a business owner, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you get organized, manage your time effectively, and actually get things done.I’m joined by Kat, a professional organizer and ADHD coach, who shares real-life systems that work for both neurodivergent and neurotypical entrepreneurs. We’ll talk about why traditional productivity advice doesn’t work for everyone, how to beat pro...
2025-02-2538 min
The Aspirant PodcastStephanie Long - 3 SEO Trends You Need to Know for 2025 (So You Don’t Get Left Behind!)Send a textIn this episode, Natasha Clawson sits down with Stephanie Long, founder and CEO of Mrs. SEO, to dive into the top SEO trends for 2025 and how AI is shaping the future of search. Stephanie shares insights on how businesses can optimize their websites for AI-driven search results, user search intent, and high-quality content creation. Never miss an episode, sign up for notifications by clicking here.Get In Touch: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Email
2025-02-1826 min
The Aspirant PodcastThe AI Problem No One’s Talking About (Yet)Send a textWhat happens when AI starts questioning what’s real and what’s not? As AI tools become more integrated into our digital world, business owners and creators are facing a new challenge—one that could impact visibility, trust, and originality.Are we entering an era where proving our authenticity is just another algorithm to beat? Let’s talk about what this means for the future of online business.Never miss an episode, sign up for notifications by clicking here.Get In Touch: Website...
2025-02-0509 min
The Aspirant PodcastMaking Business Connections in the Most Unexpected PlacesSend a text What if your next big business opportunity came from a casual, everyday conversation? In this episode, I’m sharing how a chance encounter at the gym led to a valuable connection—without a single sales pitch. We’ll dive into why relationship-based marketing is the secret to selling with ease and how you can start making meaningful business connections in the most unexpected places. Tune in and discover how simple, genuine interactions can open doors you never saw coming! Never miss an episode, sign up for notifications by clicking here.
2025-01-3005 min
The Aspirant PodcastThe One Word That Could Transform Your YearSend a textWhat if one word could guide your year, bring focus to your goals, and shift how you approach your day-to-day? In today’s episode, I’m sharing the word I’ve chosen for 2025 and the story behind how it found me.This word is already helping me rethink progress, tackle big dreams, and find joy in small, daily wins—and it might just do the same for you.If you’re ready for a fresh perspective and a little inspiration, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in!Never miss...
2025-01-1507 min
The Aspirant Podcast5 Common Marketing Setbacks (and How to Overcome Them to Build Confidence and Boost Sales in 2025)Send a textAre these common marketing challenges holding you back from achieving your business goals?In this episode, I break down the five most frequent marketing roadblocks I see with my clients and share actionable strategies to overcome them. You'll discover how to adopt a proactive marketing mindset that not only builds your confidence but also helps grow your income this year.Here’s what we’ll tackle together:Struggling to find time for marketing.Feeling afraid of coming across as salesy, repetitive, or annoying.Relying too much on word...
2025-01-0716 min
The Aspirant PodcastKelley Sewell - Find the Courage to Write and Publish Your First BookSend a textEver dreamed of writing a book but don’t know where to start? In this episode, Natasha Clawson sits down with Kelley Sewell, CEO of Redcliff Publishing, author, and writing coach, to demystify the path to publishing. Kelley shares insights into self-publishing, hybrid publishing, and traditional publishing, outlining the pros and cons of each approach.They discuss the logistics of writing a book, finding time amidst a busy schedule, and overcoming fears of vulnerability and criticism. Kelley also emphasizes the importance of defining your audience and marketing your book early, using creative st...
2024-12-0329 min
The Aspirant PodcastStephanie Pottick - Navigating Business Legalities and Protecting Intellectual PropertySend a textEver wondered how to safeguard your business while staying focused on what you love? This week, I sat down with Stephanie Pottick, a business and trademark attorney with a unique perspective. Before becoming a lawyer, Stephanie spent 14 years in the toy industry, working on iconic products like Wizard of Oz dolls and Sesame Street toys. Now, she combines her business expertise with legal know-how to help entrepreneurs protect their businesses and thrive.In this episode, Stephanie breaks down intimidating legal topics into simple, actionable steps. We discuss:Why protecting your intellectual...
2024-11-1935 min
The Aspirant PodcastJen Jones Donatelli - How to Make Headlines (And Why It’s Easier Than You Think)Send a textEver dreamed of seeing your name in bold letters on National Geographic, Time, or Martha Stewart? You’re not alone—and you’re not out of reach. This week, I sat down with Jen Jones Donatelli, a journalist, certified coach, and media strategist, to unlock the mystery of landing those coveted media features.Jen has helped her clients get featured in prestigious publications like National Geographic, TIME, BBC, Martha Stewart, and Apartment Therapy. She’s passionate about showing entrepreneurs and creatives how to navigate media opportunities—without breaking the bank on expensive PR firms.
2024-11-0443 min
The Aspirant PodcastHelen Horyza - How to Make Smarter Business Decisions by Tapping Into Your ValuesSend a textIn this episode, Award-winning author and founder of Career Coach Entrepreneur Academy, Helen Horyza, joins to explore the pivotal role that values play in both personal and professional decision-making. Helen explains how defining and aligning with core values can guide smarter, more confident choices in business and life.Listeners will discover the importance of having both corporate and personal values, and how these two sets can work together to create a strong foundation for navigating challenges. Whether running a business, leading a team, or charting a new career path, Helen's insights offer...
2024-10-1526 min
The Aspirant PodcastGrace Purdum - What Service-Based Businesses Can Learn from a Horse RescueSend a textIn this episode, we’re diving into an unexpected source of business wisdom: a horse rescue. Join us as we sit down with Grace Purdom, President of Hope for Horses and co-owner of Advantage Horsemanship, to uncover how innovative strategies for managing a horse rescue and riding school can offer fresh perspectives and approaches for service-based businesses. Grace shares her journey of relocating a nonprofit across the country and rebuilding its entire donor and volunteer base through community outreach, marketing automation, and innovative business models. We’ll discuss how she applied tech soluti...
2024-09-2430 min
The Aspirant PodcastLindsay Hurty - Unlocking Midlife Fulfillment and Business Success Through Mentorship and IntentionalitySend a textEver wondered how mentorship and accountability can transform your life and business? Join us as we uncover the secrets of midlife fulfillment and entrepreneurial success with self-development specialist Lindsay Hurty. Discover how long-standing accountability groups can create powerful self-led "mini masterminds," offering a robust support system that fuels growth. Lindsay shares the concept of "mutual mentors," where balanced relationships drive mutual development, and recounts how peer encouragement played a pivotal role in her professional milestones. Unpack the power of "sparkatypes" to design a fulfilling work life and explore the transformative potential of "f...
2024-09-1746 min
The Aspirant PodcastMarie Reginato - Tips to Show Up Confidently on CameraSend a textEver wondered how to overcome camera anxiety and show up consistently on social media? Join me as I chat with my fabulous cousin, Marie Reginato, who transitioned from a traditional nine-to-five job to becoming a successful cookbook author and motivational leader. Marie shares her early struggles and triumphs in starting a food blog and how the courage to put herself on Instagram opened doors to incredible opportunities, including growing her Instagram to over 60K followers. We dive into the secrets of consistent effort, the importance of talking about your work, and trusting in the...
2024-09-1036 min
The Lisa Lamont ShowWhy Every Professional Speaker Has a Speaker Sheet with Natasha ClawsonIf your dream is to be on stage to talk or hold workshops in the corporate arena, you will want to listen in! Since 2006 Brand & Marketing expert, Natasha Clawson has been helping professional women be visible and show up as a leader in their field! We also talk about the power of marketing on LinkedIn. You don't want to miss out! https://www.aspireenco.com/ You can also connect with Natasha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nclawson/
2019-12-1325 min
BelaboredBelabored Podcast #30: Out (and In) Sourcing
Subscribe to the Belabored RSS feed here. Subscribe and rate on iTunes here. Check out the full Belabored archive here. Tweet at @dissentmag with #belabored to share your thoughts, or join the conversation on Facebook. Belabored is produced by Natasha Lewis.
This week on Belabored, Sarah and Michelle talk about this week’s elections (and what comes next), Walmart workers on strike again, and the dangers of “economic development” plans that give big companies huge tax breaks in exchange for “creating jobs.” They then take an in-depth look at the world of outsourcing: labor struggles in China and Bangladesh...
2013-11-0845 minBelaboredBelabored Podcast #27: Retail Revolution?Subscribe to the Belabored RSS feed here. Subscribe and rate on iTunes here. Check out the full Belabored archive here. Tweet at @dissentmag with #belabored to share your thoughts, or join the conversation on Facebook. Belabored is produced by Natasha Lewis.
This week on Belabored: labor reporter, former Belabored guest, and Dissent contributor Michelle Chen joins Sarah Jaffe to share some of her reporting on the organizing campaign at Guitar Center and the difficulties of organizing large retail chains. Then, the shutdown might be over, but the problems it caused sure aren’t: Sarah and Michelle discuss th...
2013-10-1841 minBelaboredBelabored Podcast #26: The Lockout ContinuesSubscribe to the Belabored RSS feed here. Subscribe and rate on iTunes here. Tweet at @dissentmag with #belabored to share your thoughts, or join the conversation on Facebook. Belabored is produced by Natasha Lewis.
This week Sarah is joined by guest co-host Laura Clawson, editor of Daily Kos Labor and a former Belabored guest. Sarah and Laura try to bring you some cheerful news before diving back into the subject du jour: the continuing government shutdown and with it the drive from the far right to destroy the last vestiges of the New Deal safety net. They...
2013-10-1129 minBelaboredBelabored Podcast #21: RetaliationSubscribe to the Belabored RSS feed here. Subscribe and rate on iTunes here. Tweet at @dissentmag with #belabored to share your thoughts, or join the conversation on Facebook. Belabored is produced by Natasha Lewis.
The twenty-first episode of Dissent’s Belabored podcast opens with a round-up of recent news: strikes by fast food workers and port truckers, anti-retaliation rallies against Walmart, and progress on silica dust safety rules. Then Sarah and Josh are joined by Daily Kos labor editor Laura Clawson for a wide-ranging interview: What’s ahead at next week’s AFL-CIO convention? Can living wage laws...
2013-09-0633 min