Crush the Rush™: The Life-First CEO Podcast

Hosted by Holly Haynes
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You didn’t leave corporate just to build another 24/7 job. Hosted by Holly Haynes—business strategist, former Fortune 500 executive, and creator of Crush the Rush™—this top-rated podcast helps female entrepreneurs and small business owners design life-first business strategies that create freedom, profit, and sustainability without the burnout. Each week, Holly shares practical business planning tools, behind-the-scenes lessons, and honest conversations about what it really takes to scale sustainably in a fast-changing online world. From simplifying your systems and using AI intentionally to building a supportive team and protecting your time, every episode helps you work less, think bigger, and grow smarter. Because success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters, on your terms. Tune in every Monday for your strategic pep talk, and start building a business that works with your life, not against it.

  1. 576 - Organic First, Paid Second: The Ad Strategy Most Entrepreneurs Skip with Melissa Litchfield

    4 DAYS AGO

    576 - Organic First, Paid Second: The Ad Strategy Most Entrepreneurs Skip with Melissa Litchfield

    Thinking about running ads to scale your business? Before you hit “go,” you’ll want to hear this one. In today’s episode, I sit down with Melissa Litchfield, founder of Litchfield Media and seasoned digital ads strategist, to talk about what’s really working with ads right now—and what’s not. From the importance of building a strong organic foundation before investing in paid traffic to knowing when your offer is truly ready for ads, Melissa shares practical insights that will help you spend smarter and see better results.   Melissa unpacks how to run ads without burning out, how to test your funnel for success, and what the latest platform changes actually mean for your strategy in 2025. Whether you’re planning a Black Friday launch or prepping for next year, this episode will help you approach ads with clarity and confidence.   Today you’ll hear: Why ads can’t fix a weak foundation—and how to know when your business is actually ready for them.Melissa’s “organic success test” for validating an offer before you spend a dollar on paid traffic.How to blend organic and paid strategies to generate consistent leads and avoid burnout.The ad placements and creative types that are performing best right now (and which ones to skip).How to prep for Q4 campaigns the right way, from lead generation to nurturing cold audiences.Budget expectations and benchmarks for seeing meaningful results without overspending.  CONNECT WITH MELISSA: Website: www.litchfieldmedia.org Instagram: @litchfiemedia Proven Pixel Permit:  https://litchfieldmedia.org/proven-pixel-permit?utm_source=industry-referral&utm_medium=organic&utm_term=crush-the-rush-podcast&utm_content=holly-haynes&utm_campaign=proven-pixel-permit   🔗 LINKS MENTIONED: 🌟 Explore Intensives → www.hollymariehaynes.com/intensive  🎧 Anti-Social School™ → www.hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial  🌎 Website → www.hollymariehaynes.com  📲 Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode?  Comment below with your biggest takeaway, share it with a business friend, and don’t forget to screenshot and tag me so I can cheer you on!

    33 min
  2. 575 - Why DIY is Dead: The New Model That Gets Clients Results Fast (Part 1)

    6 DAYS AGO

    575 - Why DIY is Dead: The New Model That Gets Clients Results Fast (Part 1)

    In this week's pep talk, I am sharing what’s really working right now—and why more information isn’t the answer your clients are looking for. Instead of DIY overwhelm, buyers in 2025 are craving speed, clarity, and human support.   In today's episode, I share: The truth about course completion rates (and what they mean for your offers)Why the “fast track” model—expertise + systems + accountability—is converting higher than everReal examples of how service providers, podcasters, and coaches can adapt their offers to deliver quick winsBehind-the-scenes of how we rebuilt Anti-Social School™ with AI bots, accountability, and a promise of faster results  🔗 LINKS MENTIONED: 🌟 Explore Intensives → www.hollymariehaynes.com/intensive  🎧 Anti-Social School™ → www.hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial  🌎 Website → www.hollymariehaynes.com  📲 Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode?  Comment below with your biggest takeaway, share it with a business friend, and don’t forget to subscribe for part 2 of this series!

    17 min
  3. 574 - Why Your Website and Copy Should Work Harder Than You Do (And How to Fix It) with Laura Kendrick

    1 OCT

    574 - Why Your Website and Copy Should Work Harder Than You Do (And How to Fix It) with Laura Kendrick

    Ever looked at your website or copy and thought, this kind of sounds like me… but not quite? In this episode, I sit down with Laura Kendrick, copy co-conspirator and conversation strategist at Cheeky Copy, to talk all things clarity, copy, and websites that actually convert. Laura shares why clarity is the foundation of messaging that sells, how to think differently about your website so it works harder than you do, and why you can’t just copy and paste someone else’s process and expect results. If you’ve been wanting your marketing to finally feel like you and drive results without the overwhelm, this one’s for you.   Today you’ll hear: Why clarity in your messaging, brand voice, and voice of customer research are non-negotiable if you want copy that connects and converts.Simple, practical strategies to make your website work behind the scenes—guiding people on a journey that leads to action.What to prioritize first when updating your website or launch copy (hint: it’s not always the homepage!).The power of asking the right questions at the right time, like “Why did you buy?” to uncover messaging gold.How Laura approaches boundaries, rhythms, and resilience in business to create both great copy and a life-first business.  CONNECT WITH LAURA: Website: www.cheekycopy.co Instagram: @cheekycopy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-m-kendrick/ The Clarity Compass: https://www.cheekycopy.co/clarity-compass   🔗 LINKS MENTIONED: ✨Create Your Dream Income Strategy: Free Workshop → www.hollymariehaynes.com/profit  🌟 Join our new Anti-Social School™ (completely revamped and redone for 2025) and build your audience with less stress now → https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial  🌎 Website → hollymariehaynes.com  📲 Follow Along on Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a business friend who might need it too—and don’t forget to screenshot and tag me so I can cheer you on!

    33 min
  4. 573 - Why Quarterly Branded Photoshoots Are My Secret Strategy for Scaling Intentionally

    29 SEPT

    573 - Why Quarterly Branded Photoshoots Are My Secret Strategy for Scaling Intentionally

    In this week's pep talk, I am sharing why quarterly brand photoshoots are one of the most strategic tools I use to scale my business—without the burnout.   In today's episode, I share: Why each season is a vibe (and how to capture it in your photos)How branded photoshoots force you to update essentials like your Instagram grid, press page, and websiteThe personal story of how we used our family suitcases (covered in travel stickers) to highlight our life-first business model—and why those images became the perfect fit for our podcast rebrandTips for props, outfits, and even teaching your partner to capture b-roll video you can use for reels, YouTube intros, and moreReal-life hacks for making photoshoots fun, intentional, and aligned with your goals  🔗 LINKS MENTIONED: ✨Create Your Dream Income Strategy: Free Workshop → www.hollymariehaynes.com/profit  🌟 Join our new Anti-Social School™ (completely revamped and redone for 2025) and build your audience with less stress now → https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial  🌎 Website → hollymariehaynes.com  📲 Follow Along on Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a business friend who might need it too—and don’t forget to screenshot and tag me so I can cheer you on!

    19 min
  5. 572 - Out-of-the-Box Customer Delight Strategies to Grow your List and Bottom Line with Nadine Nethery

    24 SEPT

    572 - Out-of-the-Box Customer Delight Strategies to Grow your List and Bottom Line with Nadine Nethery

    Tired of cookie-cutter marketing that feels like everyone else’s? In this episode, I chat with Nadine Nethery, a copywriter turned customer experience strategist who helps online business owners stand out by delighting their customers in unexpected ways. Nadine pulls back the curtain on the creative strategies she’s used—from website scavenger hunts to audio advent calendars—that not only grow email lists and boost retention but also spark genuine connection. If you’re looking for fresh, memorable ideas to engage your audience without burning out, this conversation is full of inspiration and practical takeaways.   Today you will hear: Why customer experience is the most underrated “sales channel” and how it can transform your business.Out-of-the-box marketing ideas (like scavenger hunts and private podcasts) that surprise and delight customers while driving real results.Nadine’s framework for weaving creativity and strategy into every stage of the customer journey—before, during, and after purchase.Simple ways to gamify memberships or communities to keep people engaged and sticking around longer.The importance of listening for engagement signals and creating personalized touchpoints that make customers feel valued.  CONNECT WITH NADINE: Website: https://www.candocontent.com Instagram: @candocontent Free Resources: Mastering CX | The Private Customer Experience Podcast: https://candocontent.thrivecart.com/customer-experience-podcast/?coupon=CRUSHTHERUSH CAN DO! Tales | The Private Case Study Podcast: https://link.candocontent.com/crush-the-rush   🔗 Links Mentioned:  🎧 Download the Free Ditch the Social Drama Workshop → hollymariehaynes.com/workshop  🌟 Anti-Social School™ → hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial  🌎 Website → hollymariehaynes.com  📲 Follow me on Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a business friend who needs it—and don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss a strategy session!

    33 min
  6. 571 - Create your Q4 Content Plan in 1 Hour

    22 SEPT

    571 - Create your Q4 Content Plan in 1 Hour

    In this week's pep talk, I am sharing the exact process I use inside Anti-Social School™ and the CTR Club to create a simple, aligned content plan that actually moves the needle.   In today's episode, I share: How to map content around your sales goals (instead of guessing)The 3–4 anchor themes that keep your ideas consistent and easyA step-by-step way to map your Q4 calendar without overwhelmHow I use AI-powered bots to turn ONE idea into blogs, carousels, emails, and podcast scripts—in under 30 seconds  🔗 Links Mentioned:  🎧 Download the Free Ditch the Social Drama Workshop → hollymariehaynes.com/workshop  🌟 Anti-Social School™ → hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial  🌎 Website → hollymariehaynes.com  📲 Follow me on Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a business friend who needs it—and don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss a strategy session!

    14 min
  7. 570 - Scaling a Boutique Travel Business Without Losing the Personal Touch with Allison Collier (CLIENT SPOTLIGHT)

    17 SEPT

    570 - Scaling a Boutique Travel Business Without Losing the Personal Touch with Allison Collier (CLIENT SPOTLIGHT)

    Dreaming of turning your love for travel into something more? In today’s episode, I sit down with Allison Collier, founder of the Collier Travel Collective, who has built a boutique travel agency specializing in creating unforgettable life experiences. Allison shares how she transformed her passion for exploring the world into a thriving business, all while setting boundaries, bringing her family into the work, and redefining what luxury really means. If you’ve ever thought about blending business and lifestyle—or you just want some behind-the-scenes insight into creating stress-free, joy-filled trips—you won’t want to miss this conversation.   Today you will hear: How Allison turned her passion for travel into a business after years focused on family, and why energy and enthusiasm were key to getting started.The unique approach that makes her stand out in a competitive travel industry—blending logistics, hospitality, and deep client care.Why defining “luxury” as time, connection, and peace of mind resonates more than high-end frills.Practical strategies for setting boundaries as an entrepreneur and structuring your business around travel.Allison’s perspective on why travel is one of the best educational experiences you can give yourself and your family.  CONNECT WITH ALLISON: Website: https://www.colliertravelcollective.com/ Instagram: @colliertravelcollective FREE RESOURCE - Destinations We Love in 2025: https://colliertravelcollective.myflodesk.com/2025guideig   🔗 LINKS MENTIONED: 🎟️ Save your seat for the Fall Content + Sales Workshop (Sept. 11) → hollymariehaynes.com/fallworkshop 🎧 Explore Anti-Social School™ and learn how to grow without social media stress → hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial 🌎 Website → hollymariehaynes.com 📲 Follow Along on Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode? Share it with a business friend who needs a stress-free Q4 plan—and don’t forget to screenshot and tag me so I can cheer you on!

    33 min
  8. 569 - Why We Rebuilt Our Flagship Offer—and Used Our Audience to Test It Grassroots Style

    15 SEPT

    569 - Why We Rebuilt Our Flagship Offer—and Used Our Audience to Test It Grassroots Style

    In this week's pep talk, I share why we completely rebuilt our flagship offer and how we quietly launched it grassroots-style with our audience’s help.   In today's episode, I share: Why we scrapped our original program and what’s new (brand-new modules, 90 days of support, and AI bots built into every step)How we rewrote the entire funnel based on client interviews and the “voice of customer” strategyThe affiliate program that helped us test the new system without a huge public launchWhat worked—and what you can swipe to refresh your own offer without starting from scratch  🔗 LINKS MENTIONED 💸 Save your seat for the new Ditch the Social Drama Workshop → https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/workshop 🌟 Join the Anti-Social School™ waitlist → hollymariehaynes.com/antisocial 🌎 Website → hollymariehaynes.com 📲 Follow Along on Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes   💬 Loved this episode?  Share it with a business friend who’s ready to simplify their client attraction plan and ditch the social drama—and don’t forget to screenshot and tag me so I can cheer you on!

    30 min
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About

You didn’t leave corporate just to build another 24/7 job. Hosted by Holly Haynes—business strategist, former Fortune 500 executive, and creator of Crush the Rush™—this top-rated podcast helps female entrepreneurs and small business owners design life-first business strategies that create freedom, profit, and sustainability without the burnout. Each week, Holly shares practical business planning tools, behind-the-scenes lessons, and honest conversations about what it really takes to scale sustainably in a fast-changing online world. From simplifying your systems and using AI intentionally to building a supportive team and protecting your time, every episode helps you work less, think bigger, and grow smarter. Because success isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters, on your terms. Tune in every Monday for your strategic pep talk, and start building a business that works with your life, not against it.

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