The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur

Amber Hawley
  • 4.9 (55)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to *The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur*, where we support biz owners through the emotional & strategic challenges of entrepreneurship. Hosted by Amber Hawley—a licensed therapist, serial entrepreneur & former tech industry dropout—this channel is designed for high-achieving, easily distracted entrepreneurs seeking mindset shifts and strategies to achieve success without the struggle. With a mission of helping neurodivergent business owners get sh*t done by ditching the shame spirals, embracing their neurospicy gifts, understanding the struggles & finding community, this podcast explores essential topics like burnout, ADHD & AuDHD overwhelm, understanding your "neurospicy" brain, and implementing neurodiverse-affirming practices. With over 20 years of marketing, business & clinical experience in Silicon Valley, Amber dives into sustainable business growth, time & energy management & streamlining systems - helping you find more ease, efficiency, and success in your business.

  1. MAR 5

    184. Why Your ADHD Brain Treats Time Like a Suggestion (And What to Do About It)

    If you've ever told someone "I'll be there in 10 minutes" and showed up 45 minutes later - fully believing you had plenty of time - this episode is for you. Time blindness isn't a character flaw, it's neurology. And once you understand what's actually happening in your brain, everything changes. In this episode, you will learn about: Why ADHD brains experience time in only two categories: "now" and "not now" — and how that one concept explains so much How dopamine drives the overcommitment cycle and keeps you saying yes when your plate is already full Why trying to manage time like a neurotypical person is exhausting (and why that's not the goal) Four practical strategies you can start using this week to make time more visible and manageable How acceptance - real acceptance - is actually the foundation for building systems that work Why your future self can't be your only accountability system and what to do instead Links & Resources: Learn more about The Overcommitment Cure Email Amber at hello@amberhawley.com Follow Amber on Instagram Key Moments In This Episode: 00:00 ADHD and Time Management Struggles 05:24 "Dopamine-Driven Impulse Decisions" 08:36 "Finding Balance in Scheduling" 12:18 "Planning Beats Urgency" 14:24 "Understanding the ADHD Tax"

    16 min

  2. MAR 2

    183. We're Back: A New Format Built for Neurodivergent Brains

    We're Back: A New Format Built for Neurodivergent Brains Hey there, and welcome back to The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur. I'm your host, Amber Holly, and if you've been wondering where I've been - honestly, same. Let me explain. The podcast went quiet for a while, and it wasn't just one thing. We had a hurricane, some health stuff, family demands piling up, and if I'm being completely honest with you - ADHD perfectionism did its thing. You know how it goes: if I couldn't do it perfectly, some part of my brain decided I shouldn't do it at all. And so... silence. But I'm back. And I'm really glad to be here. Starting Wednesday, March 4th, new episodes drop every single week. And I've made some intentional changes to how the show is going to work, because I've learned a few things about what actually serves you - and what serves me - in a sustainable way. Most episodes are going to be shorter and more focused - think 15 to 25 minutes - because that's what actually works for neurodivergent brains, including mine. I'll still do longer episodes when a topic genuinely needs more space, but the default is shorter, sharper, and easier to finish while you're doing the dishes or sitting in your car in a parking lot pretending you're not avoiding going inside yet. No judgment. I've been there. The format is mostly going to be me, solo, talking directly to you about the real stuff - the ADHD business challenges that nobody puts in the entrepreneurship books. Things like forgetting to bill a client. Or realizing you've been paying for three subscriptions to tools you stopped using six months ago. Or the way energy management, systems, and strategic planning all feel completely different when your brain works the way ours does. I'll also be bringing in select expert interviews and occasionally sharing sessions from inside my Inner Circle membership - but only when it genuinely adds something, not just to fill a slot. The first episode of the new season is called "Why Your ADHD Brain Treats Time Like a Suggestion - And What to Do About It." It's a good one, and it's coming at you March 4th. And speaking of the Inner Circle - we are celebrating five years. Five years of this community showing up for each other and building businesses that actually work with their brains. To celebrate, I'm offering 50% off an annual membership. If you've been curious about it, this is a really good time to take a look. 50% off link Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss the new episodes, and if you know someone who's been trying to build a business while also managing an ADHD brain - or a suspected one - send this their way. The more the merrier. I'll see you Wednesday. AmberHawley.com   Time Stamps: 00:00 Life Update and Hiatus 00:56 Podcast Is Back 02:10 New Episode Format 03:46 Topics You Can Expect 05:06 First Episode Preview 05:26 Inner Circle Origin Story 07:05 Anniversary Offer Details 07:24 Subscribe and Share 07:46 Wrap Up and PSA

    8 min

  3. 09/23/2024

    182. Consistent Marketing and Business Balance with Jen McFarland

    This episode dives into the critical but often overwhelming world of marketing for entrepreneurs, particularly those who are neurodivergent. We explore practical strategies to avoid all-or-nothing thinking, ensure consistency, and build sustainable marketing plans. Jen, now our Chief Marketing Officer with over 20 years in marketing and tech, shares invaluable insights on making your website customer-friendly, the importance of email marketing, and balancing multiple business tasks without succumbing to burnout. We also discuss the difference between sales and marketing, the pitfalls of trendy tools like Clickfunnels, and the need for simplicity and clarity in your marketing approach. Join us as we uncover actionable tips, personal anecdotes, and the vital role of external support in overcoming marketing challenges to achieve business growth. Plus, don't miss out on our upcoming events and special offers to help you stay on track! Tune in to gain clarity, focus, and a renewed sense of purpose in your marketing efforts. Let's dive in! Links Mentioned: amberhawley.com/innercircle Timestamped overview: 00:00 Back after hiatus; revamped business for clients. 05:19 Focus on consistency and manageable actions in business. 07:29 Marketing is overwhelming due to complexity and uncertainty. 10:11 Former tester learned restraint; avoids unnecessary software testing. 15:21 A mentor helps overcome business barriers. 17:13 Made email series more personal and compelling. 20:44 Emotional attachment complicates personal tasks and marketing. 23:37 Clear priorities essential before pursuing marketing efforts. 26:37 Own your website; control your messaging effectively. 30:41 Sunil's success: charisma, networking, personal connections made. 36:03 Email marketing yields high returns for small businesses. 38:57 Prioritize and focus social media for small businesses. 40:20 Elon Musk's changes make account access difficult. Meet Jen McFarland Jen McFarland is the CEO & Principle Consultant at Women Conquer Business, a small business marketing consultancy in Portland, OR. Her most notable SEO accomplishment is increasing traffic by 250% for the City of Portland Revenue Bureau (yes, a tax agency!), using customer-centric design and content. Today, she helps service-based businesses increase leads through marketing and SEO strategy.  womenconquerbiz.com

    43 min

  4. 04/24/2024

    181. Unleashing Inner Strength and Flow: Exploring Mindful Hypnosis with Dr. Liz Slonena

    In this episode Amber Hawley and Dr. Liz Slonena delve into the fascinating world of mindful hypnosis and retreats tailored for entrepreneurs with ADHD. They explore the neuroscience behind creativity, stress management, and hypnosis, and discuss authentic ways to overcome common entrepreneurial hurdles like perfectionism and fear of rejection. This enriching discussion offers valuable insights and practical strategies, especially highlighting the upcoming GSD retreat where Dr. Liz will be our resident flow facilitator and her approach to using alter egos for enhanced performance. In this episode, you will learn about: * Utilizing mindful hypnosis to enhance focus, creativity, and productivity. * Overcoming perfectionism and fear of rejection through authenticity and mindful practices. * The benefits of retreats specifically designed for neurodivergent entrepreneurs. * Developing an alter ego to improve confidence and manage social media interactions. * The neurological foundations of creativity and the therapeutic effects of clinical hypnosis.   About Dr. Liz Slonena Dr. Liz Slonena (slow-nih-nah) is an ADHD psychologist, speaker, and business consultant located in Asheville, NC. She empowers perfectionistic business owners to overcome doubt and banish burnout with mindful hypnosis so that they can stress less and live more while earning more.  Dr. Liz is the co-creator of Brief Mindful Hypnosis, a science-backed way to rapidly overcome stress to help you feel more calm, creative, and confident in 7 days. Her transformative meditations have been featured on YouTube, Aura, InsightTimer, BetterSleep, Thrive360, and Mooditude. You can learn more on Dr. Liz's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links & Resources: GSD Retreat happening May 16th – 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC Get 30 days of free premium access to Aura, an all-in-one meditation and hypnosis app HERE Register for free for creating your perfect work week workshop Connect with Amber Hawley    Key Moments In This Episode: 00:00 Therapist entrepreneur coaches business owners for success. 04:52 Experience with hypnosis leads to unique perspectives. 09:31 Interest in self-hypnosis and discomfort with performance. 10:36 Connection to energy healing through visualization experiences. 15:22 Therapy voice, power pose shift perception. 20:15 Embracing calming techniques for centering and relaxation. 22:45 Controversial NLP like hypnosis for selling persuasion. 25:58 Interest in mindful hypnosis for neurospicy health. 28:26 ADHD brain feels like swirling puppies, overthinking. 30:41 Embracing neurodiversity; strengths, challenges, and creativity. 36:16 Overcoming fear and wearing a new persona. 39:54 Met through social media, admired confidence and balance. 42:45 Validating permission to embrace authentic, quirky selves. 46:50 Building confidence through repeated affirmation and experiences. 48:38 Finding growth and success despite challenges faced. 53:26 Join the May GSD retreat in Asheville. 54:24 Encouraging creativity and focus through experimentation.

    57 min

  5. 04/18/2024

    180. Boosting Productivity Through Effective Delegation with Lesley Pyle

    Finding the right team for your business can feel burdensome, especially when you're juggling the role of entrepreneur with personal life demands. Lesley Pyle joins Amber Hawley to explore strategies for lightening this load, from hiring an online business manager to creating an enticing job post that draws in the right talent. Through the blend of experiences shared, this episode equips entrepreneurs with the wisdom to expand their teams effectively while maintaining balance in their lives. In this episode, you will learn about: The benefits of an online business manager in streamlining operations and aiding hiring. Strategies for recognizing when it's time to hire help and how to begin the process. Keys to crafting a compelling job post to attract the best candidates. The importance of pacing your hiring process and focusing on one role at a time. Tips for conducting meaningful interviews that reveal if a candidate truly fits your business. How to leverage freelancers' diverse experiences for the growth of your business. Techniques for preventing team member burnout through proper workload management.   About Lesley Pyle Lesley Pyle is the Founder and CEO of HireMyMom.com, a service connecting Small Businesses with Virtual Professionals across the country since 2007. Pyle began her work from home journey in 1995 after having her first child and started her first online business in 1996 - HBWM.com. She serves on the Board of Directors for Mighty Oaks Foundation and is a contributing writer to Entrepreneur.com. She and her family reside in Texas. You can learn more on Lesley's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links & Resources: GSD Retreat happening May 16th – 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC Connect with Amber Hawley Key Moments In This Episode: 03:36 Join us for valuable hiring advice. 09:13 Attitudes towards work have changed over time. 13:01 Hiring part-time or virtual assistants benefits businesses. 16:47 Reviewing tasks, assigning based on skills and needs. 20:23 Focus on team's strengths, foster loyalty. 23:22 Single motherhood is tough but honesty is crucial. 25:48 Prepare interview questions to assess candidate compatibility. 27:29 Virtual work: value, skills, disruptions, pros/cons. Compatibility. 32:28 Align values, attract the right candidates, share benefits. 35:44 Follow job instructions, stand out from competition. 38:55 Virtual assistant supports multiple aspects of business. 42:32 Delegate tasks to focus on business growth. 44:16 Free resources, short course, concierge program available.

    46 min

  6. 03/26/2024

    179. What Your Business Needs in 2024 with Dr. Liz Lasky

    Join me and my special guest Dr. Liz Laskey, as we dissect what is needed in 2024 to grow and monetize your business. The conversation also explores the difference between being a business owner and an entrepreneur, the significance of action over perfection, and the value of investing in coaching for sustained business success. About Dr. Liz Lasky Dr. Liz Lasky, PhD, LCSW, is the founder and CEO of The Lasky Institute of Coaching™, The Coach Training Program For Helping Professionals™ and lizlasky.com. She has a commitment to helping people get what they want in business, life, and love. She is the author the book "Get What You Want"©  You can learn more on Liz's website, follow her on Instagram, and connect with her on LinkedIn.   Links & Resources: 2024 Therapist Summit GSD Retreat happening May 16th – 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC Connect with Amber Hawley    Key Moments In This Episode: 00:00 Welcome to the Easily Distracted Entrepreneur 00:39 Introducing Dr. Liz Laskey and the Power of Summits 03:40 The Essence of Entrepreneurship vs. Business Ownership 07:50 Personal Journeys and Entrepreneurial Intelligence 18:09 Embracing the Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overcoming Challenges 23:03 The Importance of Motion in Business and Life 26:30 Balancing the Scales: The Who and the What in Coaching 28:10 The Power of Simplicity in Business and Coaching 28:57 Crafting Your Signature Offer: The Foundation of Success 30:32 Expanding Your Impact: Courses, Talks, and Beyond 34:17 Monetization and Movement: The Key to Business Growth 42:01 The Importance of Coaching and Advice for Entrepreneurs

    48 min

  7. 03/18/2024

    178. Unlocking Authentic Sales: Dora Rankin's Heart-Centered Strategies

    If you're feeling frustrated and discouraged because you can't seem to close deals and build meaningful relationships with potential clients, then you are not alone! You may be spending hours cold calling and sending out generic emails, only to be met with radio silence or rejection. Instead of seeing your sales numbers grow, you find yourself constantly questioning your approach and doubting your abilities. But fear not, because there is a better way to master the sales process and achieve the confidence and effectiveness you desire. In this episode, you will be able to: Master the sales process to close deals with confidence and ease. Discover the power of defining your sales and marketing strategies for business success. Build strong relationships with your target audience and watch your sales skyrocket. Unlock the secret to authentic and genuine connections that lead to loyal customers. Develop a resilient mindset to overcome objections and achieve sales success. About Dora As a master coach, she provides high level support for women who want to live their purpose and create wealth. Dora customizes her coaching for women in all stages of business, from high level corporate women starting consulting companies to venture backed startups. Her programs include money mindset, sales strategy, growth planning, capital planning and are delivered with genuine authenticity and a sincere desire to impact change. Connect with Dora: https://gypsysoulcoaching.com/ https://www.instagram.com/doralrankin/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/doralrankin/   If you want to find more about the GSD Retreat happening May 16th - 18th, 2024 in Asheville, NC. https://amberhawley.com/retreat Find out more about the Inner Circle for the easily distracted: https://amberhawley.com/innercircle/

    43 min

  8. 11/02/2023

    177. My Neurodivergent Brain with Edwin Ruiz

    In today's episode, Amber is joined by her dear friend Edwin Ruiz, a filmmaker, live streaming event producer, and all-around Renaissance man. Edwin shares his personal journey as a neurodivergent business owner, offering a unique perspective on harnessing neurodivergent strengths for success. With his tech background and love for problem-solving, Edwin's story highlights the power of embracing one's neurospiciness and finding fulfillment in constantly evolving challenges. His ability to dive deep into subjects, make connections, and create innovative solutions showcases the creativity and innovation that can arise from neurodivergence. Join Amber and Edwin as they delve into the world of neurodivergence and discover how to leverage these strengths in business. Connect with Edwin Here: https://www.instagram.com/mondomachine/ Connect with Amber Here: https://amberhawley.com/ The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:11 - Finishing the Year Strong 00:02:10 - Edwin's Story 00:06:00 - ADHD Flavor of Life 00:09:18 - Neurospiciness 00:16:11 - The Temptation of Knowledge Hoarding 00:17:27 - Learning through Observation 00:19:08 - Learning Preferences and Technology 00:22:02 - The Power of a Diverse Community 00:23:01 - Balancing Learning and Business Responsibilities 00:32:06 - The Value of Learning from Others' Stories 00:32:40 - Judging Our Value Based on Output 00:33:23 - Consistency and Identifying What's Important 00:34:52 - The Potential of AI in Problem Solving 00:39:41 - Finding Joy in Personal Problem Solving 00:48:50 - Explaining Tech Jobs to Children 00:49:19 - Trusting the Process 00:50:11 - ADHD as a Superpower 00:51:10 - Finding Your Own Way in Entrepreneurship 00:52:57 - Honoring Biorythms and Setting Boundaries 01:05:10 - The Importance of Neurodivergent Individuals 01:05:29 - Ways to Connect with the Guest 01:06:01 - Appreciating Neurodiversity

    1h 7m
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About

Welcome to *The Easily Distracted Entrepreneur*, where we support biz owners through the emotional & strategic challenges of entrepreneurship. Hosted by Amber Hawley—a licensed therapist, serial entrepreneur & former tech industry dropout—this channel is designed for high-achieving, easily distracted entrepreneurs seeking mindset shifts and strategies to achieve success without the struggle. With a mission of helping neurodivergent business owners get sh*t done by ditching the shame spirals, embracing their neurospicy gifts, understanding the struggles & finding community, this podcast explores essential topics like burnout, ADHD & AuDHD overwhelm, understanding your "neurospicy" brain, and implementing neurodiverse-affirming practices. With over 20 years of marketing, business & clinical experience in Silicon Valley, Amber dives into sustainable business growth, time & energy management & streamlining systems - helping you find more ease, efficiency, and success in your business.

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