Employee To Boss: Entrepreneurship, Side Hustles, and Business Growth Tips from Experts

Hayleigh Hayhurst, Podcast Producer & Strategist
  • 5.0 (38)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to the Employee To Boss podcast! Employee To Boss is for everyone with an entrepreneurial spirit… For those wanting to start their business, for those wanting to go all-in on their side hustle, for those wanting to start a side hustle… and for those who are business curious! Join podcast producer Hayleigh Hayhurst as she guides you through all things business. She is joined by guests from all different industries, at all different points of business to share their experiences, tips, and advice. To have a successful business, you need to know a thing or two about different industries. The reason behind this? It is called info-sponging aka learning and absorbing new information about different industries. Starting a business can be very lonely, and confusing! Each episode will end with three actionable tips for you to follow to get started with your business today! Presented by Espresso Podcast Production, a full-service podcast production company specializing in editing, marketing, and strategy. Grab your coffee and join us!

  1. 12h ago

    169. Balancing Ambition, Dating, and Feminine Energy with Natalia Heart

    You're ambitious, you're building something incredible, and you're working all day every day to make it happen. But what about love? What about creating space for a partner while still showing up powerfully in your business? Women's dating and relationship expert Natalia returns to Employee to Boss to share how ambitious women can balance masculine energy in business with feminine energy in relationships—and why understanding both is the key to having it all. With all of her current clients now in relationships after leaving dating apps, and three recent engagements, Natalia's approach is clearly working. This conversation will challenge what you think you know about success, love, and what it means to be a powerful woman who also wants partnership. In This Episode: Why all of Natalia's current clients have left dating apps and are now in relationships—and what that teaches us about transformationThe real qualifications needed to be a love coach (hint: it's way more than just getting married yourself)Why you have BOTH masculine and feminine energy—and how to use each strategically in business vs. relationshipsWhy only 10% of women doing the work can change the entire paradigm of relationshipsWhy your beliefs become your reality—and how to cultivate the ones that serve your vision Listen to ep 50 with Natalia: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/employee-to-boss-entrepreneurship-side-hustles-and/id1598027167?i=1000587222147   Connect with Natalia: https://www.instagram.com/nataliaheartcoaching/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: http://espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    41 min

  2. May 26

    168. Building Systems That Scale: AI and Automation | Kathleen, The Virtual Spell

    What if the thing you feared most became your greatest asset? In this episode, I'm chatting with Kathleen, an Online Business Manager and AI consultant who had a complete breakdown when AI emerged—convinced it would end her career. Now? She's the expert helping business owners like us streamline operations and embrace automation. Kathleen shares her honest journey from corporate burnout to building a thriving business, starting with photography, pivoting to VA work during COVID, and eventually finding her zone of genius in systems and AI consulting. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by tech tools or unsure where to start with AI, this conversation is your permission slip to start small. What we cover: ​Why Kathleen thought AI would take her job—and how she turned fear into expertise​The truth: AI won't replace you, but not learning it might hold you back​How to start with AI without the overwhelm (one thing at a time)​ChatGPT vs. Claude vs. Kassidy.AI—which to use and when​The most common mistakes people make with AI in business​Essential systems every business needs: lead management, response process, and onboarding​Three actionable steps you can take today Connect with Kathleen: https://linktr.ee/thevirtualspell Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: http://espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    33 min

  3. Apr 29

    167. Why Your Business Is Draining You (And What to Do About It) with Rena Duell, One Team Partners

    If you’ve ever felt like your business is everything—your identity, your time, your mental space—this episode is going to hit home. In this conversation, I’m joined by Rena Duell, a business coach at One Team Partners, who spent 25 years running her own business before hitting a breaking point that forced her to completely step away. We talk about what burnout actually looks like (hint: it’s not just being tired), why so many entrepreneurs don’t even realize it’s happening, and what it really takes to rebuild your business in a way that supports your life—not consumes it. This is one of those episodes that will make you pause and rethink how you’re operating day-to-day. In this episode, we cover: What burnout actually looks like (and how it can show up physically) Why hustle culture feels normal—but isn’t sustainable How to separate your identity from your business The role of community when you’re building alone How to structure your workday around your energy (not just your calendar) Decision fatigue—and how to stop letting it drain you The truth behind “having it all” as an entrepreneur Why you are the ceiling of your business growth Rena is offering listeners a free month inside her coaching community Big Talk (normally $20/month), plus a free 1:1 coaching call. Email: BigTalk@OneTeamPartners.com and mention Employee to Boss to get access. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn or learn more at OneTeamPartners.com. Connect with Rena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rena-duell/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠ Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    26 min

  4. Apr 14

    166. Creating Your Signature Talk & Building Influence as an Introvert with Stephanie Thoma

    Ever wondered how introverts can become powerful speakers and thought leaders? International speaker Stephanie Thoma (250+ events, featured in Forbes) shares her journey from employee to boss and the exact framework she uses with clients to build calm authority. In This Episode: Stephanie's path from tech layoff to qualitative researcher to international speakerThe 4-part "Connect with Confidence" Framework: Calm → Confidence → Connection → ImpactWhy having ONE signature talk builds more authority than customizing every timeHow to know if you're ready to be a podcast guest vs. host your own showBox breathing technique for instant calm before speaking or networkingThe concept of "conversational sponges" for genuine connectionHow Stephanie's book Confident Introvert came from her validated workshop I met Stephanie through The Entreprenista League, a business and community membership where founders like you can access top-tier resources, media opportunities, and a community that will be there to support you as you grow your business. Join here: https://refer.entreprenista.com/2bvagj2con4u Connect with Stephanie: https://stephaniethoma.com Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ LinkedIn: Hayleigh Hayhurst TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it truly helps more entrepreneurs find the show!

    32 min

  5. Apr 7

    165. Q1 Business Updates: Live Podcast Event in the PNW & What's Next for Espresso Podcast Production

    t's been a while since I've dropped a solo episode here on Employee to Boss! Between managing two podcasts and producing 10 episodes a month, things have been busy—but in the best way. As we close out Q1 and step into Q2, I wanted to pull back the curtain and share what's been happening behind the scenes at Espresso Podcast Production. This episode is a peek into how quickly things can shift in business—from hiring decisions to launching new ventures and restructuring offers based on what's actually selling. If you've ever wondered what it's like to navigate growth, pivot when needed, and invest in your vision without expecting immediate returns, this conversation is for you. In this episode: The three-month sales cycle and how my Europe trip set me up for Q1 successHiring a new behind-the-scenes team member to support growth without disrupting client experienceLaunching Podcasters NW, a live networking event for podcasters in the Pacific Northwest (and why I'm investing in connection over profit)Celebrating one year in Seattle Executive Association and how being "the dumbest person in the room" has fueled my growthThe surprising success of my one-off strategy sessions (and why they're outselling my core offers right now)My evergreen webinar on using your podcast to build your brand in 2026 Free Webinar: How to Use Your Podcast to Build Your Brand in 2026: https://espressopodcastproduction.kit.com/thepodcasteffect Resources Mentioned: Join Podcasters NW (Seattle/PNW area): DM me "EVENT" on Instagram @espressopodcastproductionSeattle Executive Association: https://www.seattleexecs.orgLogo & Branding: Taylor Hanson, Hanson DesignsEvent Planning Support: Whitney Adams-Moore, Electric Butter Marketing Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ LinkedIn: Hayleigh Hayhurst TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it truly helps more entrepreneurs find the show!

    18 min

  6. Mar 31

    164. She Hit Her Teaching Salary in One Month—Then Tripled Her Income Goal with Rachel Rowland

    What happens when you stop waiting for the “perfect plan”… and just start building? In this episode, I’m sitting down with Rachel Rowland—real estate agent, founder of Eastside EntreprenueHERs, and someone who completely transformed her life and income in a very short amount of time. We talk about her transition from teaching during the chaos of 2020 to stepping into entrepreneurship, how she scaled faster than she expected, and what it really takes to build a business rooted in community. We also get into networking (what actually works vs. what feels… gross), showing up online without overthinking it, and the mindset shifts that changed everything for her. In this episode: The real story behind leaving a stable career to start overHow mindset can either block or accelerate your growthWhy most networking feels off—and how to do it differentlyBuilding a community-first business (and why it works)The truth about showing up on social media consistentlyWhat actually drives business today (hint: it’s not views)Real estate myths, market trends, and what buyers should know Connect with Rachel: Eastside EntreprenueHERs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastsideentrepreneuhers/ Real Estate Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelrowlandrealestate/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠ Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    41 min

  7. Mar 17

    163. Why Female Founders Need Community: Building a Business Through Connection with Entreprenista's Stephanie Cartin

    Building a business can feel isolating, especially for female founders navigating growth, leadership, and visibility. But it does not have to be that way. In this episode I sit down with Stephanie Cartin, co-founder of Entreprenista, the largest community of ambitious women founders worldwide. Stephanie shares her journey from Cornell hospitality student to social media agency owner to community builder serving over 3,600 women entrepreneurs. If you've ever felt isolated in your business journey or wondered how successful founders build lasting connections, this conversation offers a grounded roadmap for growth through community. The Entreprenista League, a business and community membership where founders like you can access top-tier resources, media opportunities, and a community that will be there to support you as you grow your business. Join here: https://refer.entreprenista.com/2bvagj2con4u In this episode we cover: • Stephanie’s transition from Marriott corporate life to co-founding Social Fly • Why she and her co-founder invested in networking early — even with no budget • How Entreprenista evolved from a podcast into a global founder community • Real examples of collaborations that turned into major business opportunities • How to network authentically without falling into “hustle culture” • Practical ways founders can use LinkedIn and connection calls to build real relationships • What it takes to scale a community to thousands of members Learn more about Entreprenista: https://refer.entreprenista.com/2bvagj2con4u Connect with Stephanie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephjillcartin/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠ Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    34 min

  8. Mar 11

    162. How to Turn Your Cat or Dog Into a Six-Figure Business with Petfluencer Secrets

    If you've ever thought "I want to make my dog famous" or "my cat should be an influencer," this episode is for you. Seriously! I'm sitting down with Ashley, the owner of Petfluencer Secrets, and we're talking all about how she turned her cat into a full-time business. Her cat Chip the Manx has over 486,000 YouTube subscribers and 122,000 Instagram followers. And before you think this is just a fun hobby, let me be clear: this is a six-figure business. Multiple six figures. If you've ever wondered how to make money with your pet's Instagram account, how pet influencers get brand deals, or what it actually takes to grow a pet account on TikTok, YouTube, or Instagram, this is your episode. In this episode: Why she started a cat Instagram account while drowning in physical therapy school debtThe side hustle that changed everything: blogging in the mid-2010sHow she went from posting cute cat videos to realizing "wait, I can teach this"Her transition from full-time physical therapist to part-time to full-time entrepreneur Connect with Ashley, Chip and Petfuencer Secrets: https://www.instagram.com/petfluencersecrets/ Chip the Manx: https://www.instagram.com/chipthemanx/ Biskit the Calico: https://www.instagram.com/biskitthecalico/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠ Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ Subscribe to my email newsletter for weekly podcast news and exclusive offers: https://espressopodcastproduction.kit.com/1501c2e46f Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production:  https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    40 min
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About

Welcome to the Employee To Boss podcast! Employee To Boss is for everyone with an entrepreneurial spirit… For those wanting to start their business, for those wanting to go all-in on their side hustle, for those wanting to start a side hustle… and for those who are business curious! Join podcast producer Hayleigh Hayhurst as she guides you through all things business. She is joined by guests from all different industries, at all different points of business to share their experiences, tips, and advice. To have a successful business, you need to know a thing or two about different industries. The reason behind this? It is called info-sponging aka learning and absorbing new information about different industries. Starting a business can be very lonely, and confusing! Each episode will end with three actionable tips for you to follow to get started with your business today! Presented by Espresso Podcast Production, a full-service podcast production company specializing in editing, marketing, and strategy. Grab your coffee and join us!

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