Business as UNusual

BiCurean Consulting
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Biweekly

Moving beyond standard advice, Business as UNusual is for the independent thinkers and changemakers who know that business as usual doesn't work for them. Hosted by Aicila, a Business Cartographer and strategist, this show explores the unconventional practices driving leaders who prioritize people and the planet alongside profit. We dig into the innovative strategies of guest founders and explore the Energy Equation™—helping you balance Momentum (the drive to finish), Creativity (the spark of ideas), and Connection (the fuel of collaboration). If you are ready to redefine success and find a rhythm that sustains you, tune in to discover what’s unusual—and essential—for your own venture. For more details, visit BiCurean.com/bau. Check out out books mentioned on the show- https://bookshop.org/lists/business-books-for-folks-breaking-the-mold/edit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Mid Year Look

    1d ago

    Mid Year Look

    In this special mid-year episode of Business as UNusual, the conversation focused on the gap between initial goal-setting and current reality. Reflecting on the evolving energy and priorities that shape business outcomes, the discussion explored unconventional approaches to assessing progress, learning from new opportunities, and celebrating unexpected wins. Listeners are invited to rethink success by tuning into their energy and embracing what has truly worked—perfect for professionals and entrepreneurs seeking fresh mid-year business strategies and self-reflection. Topics discussed in this episode: Rethinking the Mid-Year Review: How to Measure What MattersThe Energy Equation: Why Plans Change and What That RevealsOvercoming Self-Judgment and Celebrating Unseen SuccessesTips for Refreshing Goals and Planning for the Next Six Months Reflect on your own mid-year goals—notice what truly worked, even if it wasn’t on your original list. Embrace your unique energy flow and plan for the next six months with fresh insights. Stand out by sharing your unconventional mid-year review with the Business as UNusual community! Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    7 min
  2. Stay Ready to Get Ready

    Jun 15

    Stay Ready to Get Ready

    This episode dives into the art of staying ready for unexpected opportunities in business, even when you don’t think you’re preparing. Explore how building and trusting your baseline—rather than obsessively optimizing—makes it possible to say yes when the right moment arrives. Learn how maintaining everyday habits, building the right team, and recognizing your own threshold empowers you in the ever-evolving world of modern business. Topics discussed in this episode: The hidden power of baseline preparedness for unexpected opportunitiesWhy trusting your team and their anticipatory skills is a game-changerHow everyday habits shape your capacity for business successThe difference between constant optimization and sustainable readinessPractical strategies for ensuring your business can say “yes” when opportunity knocksRedefining what “enough” looks like in the entrepreneurial journeySteps to audit and update your business assets so they’re ready for actionNavigating personal satisfaction and goal setting without unnecessary pressure Reflect on your business baseline—what systems or habits can you strengthen today? Share this episode with someone tackling an unexpected challenge in their business journey. Take the Energy Snapshot to discover the energy you’re really bringing to your work: www.bicurean.com/energysnapshot Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    10 min
  3. The Business of Freedom

    Jun 8

    The Business of Freedom

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, Maureen Gilbert—author, entrepreneur, and business acquisition mentor—shares how she walked away from a conventional, picture-perfect life to design success on her terms. We dig into innovative strategies for business ownership, breaking free from traditional systems, and the powerful ways women can build financial and time freedom. Maureen's story and practical tips help listeners discover new entrepreneurial paths without self-sacrifice, and offer empowering methods to succeed outside the corporate mold. Topics discussed in this episode: Why tying your income to hours worked limits real freedomDecoupling self-worth from business scale: redefining entrepreneurial successThe truth about buying an existing business as a path to work-life balanceOvercoming venture capital bias and the realities women face in fundingCreating systems and knowing when to step back as a business ownerThe art (not science) of managing as a boss without micromanaging or disengagingHow to identify—and avoid—common myths about "easy" business ownershipBuilding an asset for your future: why business ownership can also be a retirement strategyWhy "how you spend your days is how you spend your life" Resources mentioned in this episode: Maureen Gilbert's book, The Business of FreedomMasters Fund – Venture capital for female-founded companiesU.S. Small Business Administration resources for business acquisition Rethink your definition of success—explore how you can build a business around your life, not the other way around. Join the conversation! Connect with Maureen at her website for one-on-one mentoring or to access her affordable business acquisition course. Grab your copy of The Business of Freedom and start charting your own unusual path to entrepreneurial freedom. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    35 min
  4. Beyond Downloads

    Jun 1

    Beyond Downloads

    On this episode of Business as UNusual, Aicila dives into disruptive podcast marketing with Chloe Williamson, podcast marketing strategist at Interview Valet. Chloe shares actionable insights for business leaders, brands, and health & wellness professionals eager to use long-form podcasting to drive true connection and visibility. Discover how to find your real audience, leverage podcasts for evergreen marketing, and why download numbers aren’t the only metric that matters. Topics discussed in this episode: Rethinking audience targeting: Why being too broad or too narrow hurts your marketingThe secret to effective guest placements: Human touch beats automationWhy download numbers are out—what to measure instead for podcast ROIHow to analyze competitors without falling into the comparison trapBuilding deep trust and connection via podcast conversationsPodcast guesting best practices for entrepreneurs and brandsCommon myths about “big” podcasts and business exposureSteps to refine your audience and your goals before pitching podcastsTips for growing in business by slowing down and trusting the process Resources mentioned in this episode: Interview Valet: https://www.interviewvalet.comChloe’s landing page: https://www.interviewvalet.com/chloeFree podcast marketing resources: https://www.podcastinterviewmarketing.com/ Ready to grow your brand? Visit Interview Valet for podcast marketing tips and a free consultation. Want more insights? Explore the free resources and guides at Interview Valet to up your podcast game! Stand out in business—subscribe to Business as UNusual for more real conversations with innovative leaders. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    26 min
  5. Super Villain Syndrome

    May 25

    Super Villain Syndrome

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, Speaker A dives deep into the myths around solo success in business, challenging the idea that working alone is a sign of strength. Instead, Speaker A highlights how genuine community, accountability, and friction lead to stronger leadership, better decisions, and sustainable energy. Unpack the differences between simply building a network and cultivating your own "Justice League"—and why having people who challenge you is essential for modern business leadership. Topics discussed in this episode: Why the "lone genius" myth harms leaders and businessesThe power of community as both support and governanceHow to tell real accountability apart from fake agreementBuilding "connection energy" for sustainable business practicesMoving from network to "Justice League": who keeps you grounded?Practical steps to intentionally cultivate community, not just contacts Reflect on your "Justice League"—who keeps you honest when business gets tough? Start building authentic connections, not just agreements. Take the Energy Snapshot to measure your connection energy and strengthen your team! Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    7 min
  6. Work to Live

    May 18

    Work to Live

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, Aicila challenges the traditional notion of productivity and dives into the difference between a life that’s full versus one that’s truly fulfilling. Drawing on personal insights and cultural observations, they explore why so many independent professionals and entrepreneurs carry corporate work habits into new ventures, and how the orientation toward work shapes not only business outcomes but our personal lives. Discover strategies for avoiding self-exploitation and building habits that serve both your business and real fulfillment in the ever-evolving world of modern business. Topics discussed in this episode: Why working late isn’t a badge of honorHow corporate work habits follow us into entrepreneurshipThe hidden dangers of self-exploitation among independent workersDifferentiating hustle culture from genuine work ethicThe impact of work orientation on personal relationshipsFinding fulfillment beyond a busy calendarHow to create boundaries and breaks as a business ownerLessons from Speaker for the Dead: living to work vs. working to livePractical steps to shift your orientation from work to lifeThe importance of knowing who you are beyond your job Resources mentioned in this episode: The Energy Snapshot by BiCurean: https://www.bicurean.com/energysnapshotSpeaker for the Dead by Orson Scott Card Take the Energy Snapshot to discover where your energy goes and reclaim your fulfillment! Set a hard stop in your workday this week—challenge yourself to prioritize life beyond your calendar! Reflect and share: What truly fills your life? Join the conversation with us! Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    10 min
  7. The Competence Costume

    May 11

    The Competence Costume

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila challenges the classic lone genius narrative that dominates entrepreneurship. Inspired by a Monty Python moment, Aicila unpacks the hidden pitfalls of self-sufficiency, explores the critical importance of connection energy, and offers fresh strategies for founders who are ready to trade burnout for breakthrough growth. Discover why letting go can be the most powerful move you make in modern business. Topics discussed in this episode: Busting the myth of the lone genius founderThe shadow side of self-sufficiency and the costs of doing it alone"Connection energy" as an underused business resourceHow collaboration unlocks creativity, momentum, and visionPractical questions to help founders stop "white knuckling" control Ready to grow beyond your limits? Take the free Energy Equation Snapshot and discover where your connection energy stands! Embrace the power of collaboration—share this episode with a fellow founder stuck in the solo grind! Stop doing it all. Experiment this week with trusting your team or community to hold part of the load. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    8 min
  8. Return to Trust

    May 4

    Return to Trust

    In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila explores the impact of advanced AI and automation on the workplace, shedding light on what technology can—and can’t—replace in the world of connection, trust, and meaning. Drawing from thought leaders like Will Poskett and referencing insights from Ethan Decker, Aicila asks listeners to reconsider what makes businesses truly irreplaceable and how the renewed hunger for authentic engagement is shaping the future of work. Topics discussed in this episode: Why automation alone won't create freedom or fulfillmentThe myth of inherent selfishness and its influence on AI systemsHow "connection energy" drives real business valuePractical questions to evaluate your irreplaceable role in your companyThe true cost of automated relationships versus genuine engagementSpotting the difference between real and artificial interactionsProtecting trust in a world of accelerated technology Resources mentioned in this episode: Humankind by Rutger BregmanWill Poskett’s article: 2026 Where Humanity Beats AI Reflect: Where are you still irreplaceable? Write down the spaces only you can fill. Audit your automation: Is it protecting your capacity or replacing your presence? Make one intentional shift this week for deeper engagement. Take the free Energy Equation Snapshot to discover where your connection, momentum, and creativity stand in your business. Episode transcript: The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3 Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    9 min
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5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Moving beyond standard advice, Business as UNusual is for the independent thinkers and changemakers who know that business as usual doesn't work for them. Hosted by Aicila, a Business Cartographer and strategist, this show explores the unconventional practices driving leaders who prioritize people and the planet alongside profit. We dig into the innovative strategies of guest founders and explore the Energy Equation™—helping you balance Momentum (the drive to finish), Creativity (the spark of ideas), and Connection (the fuel of collaboration). If you are ready to redefine success and find a rhythm that sustains you, tune in to discover what’s unusual—and essential—for your own venture. For more details, visit BiCurean.com/bau. Check out out books mentioned on the show- https://bookshop.org/lists/business-books-for-folks-breaking-the-mold/edit Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    BiCurean Consulting
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    185
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved, BiCurean Consulting
  • Show Website
    Business as UNusual