Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

Monica Allen
  • 5.0 (63)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

Dive into entrepreneurship with Monica Allen, an entrepreneur with over 20 years of business ownership. This podcast is for you if you desire to start your own business & defy the odds of failure or you are less than 5 years into your business & desire to grow your revenue and profit. Learn from diverse entrepreneurs and experts about marketing, team dynamics, finances, social media, and more. Entrepreneurship might feel isolating at times, but with this podcast by your side, you'll never walk alone. Elevate your business game and master your entrepreneurial life and truly become a BOSS.

  1. 3D AGO

    258 -Is Your Mindset helping You Build Your Dream...or Holding You Back?

    In this throwback episode, Monica returns to one of the most powerful tools every entrepreneur possesses: their mindset. With stories, personal insights, and a real-world example of someone stuck in a job they hate, Monica challenges listeners to examine the thoughts shaping their actions—or lack of action. She reveals how your upbringing, environment, relationships, and self-talk silently influence your path to success. This episode isn’t about surface motivation—it’s a real conversation on how growth starts within. Want to change your life or business? Then it might be time to change you first. Episode Quote: Mindset is Everything. ~Unknown What you will learn in this episode: How to identify what’s really stopping you from starting or growing a business How to shift from a fixed to a growth mindset How to break free from negative environments and influences How to set meaningful goals and actually achieve them How to use self-awareness to rewire your thinking Questions answered: What factors shape your mindset the most? Why do some people stay stuck in jobs they hate? How can a growth mindset help you grow your business? What’s the connection between your mindset and your ability to set and reach goals? What steps can you take today to start shifting your mindset? Episode Sponsor -  Zeus' Closet  Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss Join the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠ ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠ Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠ Get the 30 point checklist for building a clothing brand at www.zeuscloset.com/checklist Ready to find out what’s really holding you back? Listen to this episode now, subscribe to the show, and leave a review. Share it with someone who needs a mindset reset. Your future self will thank you. Ways to reach Monica: Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast Email: monica@monicaallen.com

    17 min

  2. JUN 27

    257 - How Can You Reset and Recommit to Your Goals Right Now?

    We’re officially halfway through the year and if your goals feel distant, forgotten, or buried under everyday demands, this episode is your reset button. In this throwback episode, Monica walks you through a simple but powerful mid-year check-in. You’ll learn how to reflect on the past six months, reassess what still matters, and recommit with purpose using systems and habits—not just wishful thinking. Inspired by James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, this conversation will help you take meaningful action to end the year strong. Grab a notebook—or open that notes app—and let’s walk through this together. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: A simple 3-step process to review, celebrate, and reframe your goals Why writing the vision isn’t enough (and what to do next) The real reason some people reach their goals while others don’t How systems and habits drive progress more than motivation ever will A mindset shift that can reignite your drive for the rest of 2025 Episode Sponsor -  Zeus' Closet  Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss Join the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠ ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠ Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠ Ways to reach Monica: Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast Email: monica@monicaallen.com

    15 min

  3. JUN 20

    256 - What 20 Years in Business Can Teach You

    In this milestone episode, Monica reflects on 20 transformative years of entrepreneurship since walking away from her corporate job. She shares the 11 most powerful lessons she's learned growing her business from $700 to seven figures. From strategic exits to learning when to pivot, these takeaways aren't just motivational—they're tactical. Whether you're just starting or deep into your journey, Monica’s hard-earned wisdom will help you avoid common mistakes and build a business that works for you. Get ready to be inspired and better equipped to take bold, smart steps forward. Episode Quote: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt What You Will Learn in This Episode: How to plan your leap from corporate to entrepreneurship How to identify and stick to your core competency How to set up systems that set you free How to manage your business using real numbers, not feelings How to simplify and scale through small changes How to pivot strategically without panicking How to build a business that fits your life, not the other way around Episode Sponsor: Zeus' Closet Grab the Business Package, Use code BOSS20 to save 20% off. Get the Level Up Living newsletter Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and if this inspired you, leave a review—it helps more bosses like you find the show!

    23 min

  4. JUN 13

    255 - How Far Would You Go to Build the Life You Want?

    In this episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica unpacks the powerful lessons learned from her conversation with Trish Skelfo, a successful franchise broker and entrepreneur. Monica shares reflections that challenge traditional startup thinking—like skipping the business plan—and reveals why betting on yourself may be the most important investment you ever make. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a smarter way to grow, this episode will have you rethinking your approach to business, success, and what it truly means to be your own boss. Episode Quote: 97% of the people who quit too soon are employed by the 3% who never gave up. ~ Unknown Questions answered: What if the pain you're experiencing is the push you need to start a business? Do you really need a business plan to get started? Is franchising a good option if you want to skip the startup grind? How do you avoid making a bad franchise investment? Why is having the right advisor so important? How does customer relationship-building lead to long-term success? Episode Sponsor -  Zeus' Closet  Grab your Small Business Package. Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss Subscribe to the Level Up Living newsletter. Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠ Get the 30 point checklist for building a clothing brand at www.zeuscloset.com/checklist Ways to reach Monica: Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast Email: monica@monicaallen.com Listen now to be inspired, gain clarity, and keep building the business—and life—you truly want. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with one fellow entrepreneur!

    14 min

  5. JUN 6

    254 - What If You Could Skip the Startup Struggle?

    In this episode of Monica chats with Trish Skelfo, a leading franchise broker who built her business from zero to seven figures—starting with just $1,500 and a borrowed garage room. Trish shares how one big risk (and one small ad) changed her life, and how her cutting-edge AI platform is helping others find the right franchise fit—without wasting time or money. Her story is proof that you don’t need to reinvent the wheel to own a business…you just need the right roadmap and support. Episode Quote: The more people you help become successful, the more successful you become. ~ Steve Harvey Reach Trish: Trish Scelfo - CEO  Trish@TheFranchiseCollective.com 540-538-7466 M  Schedule a Call TheFranchiseCollective.com Talk to Trish's clone: Franchise Discount Marketplace Questions answered: ​Why should you consider franchising instead of starting from scratch?​What are the biggest red flags in a franchise opportunity?​How long does it take to buy and launch a franchise?​What role does a franchise broker play—and how do you choose one?​How can you protect yourself when making a six-figure business decision?Ready to skip the struggle and find your next move? Listen now, subscribe, and don’t forget to leave a review to support the show and help other aspiring entrepreneurs find it! Save on Team Gear: https://zeuscloset.com/products/solopreneur-package?_pos=1&_psq=business-pac&_ss=e&_v=1.0 Email with questions: shop@zeuscloset.com

    43 min

  6. MAY 30

    253 - Can You Afford to Share What You Really Believe?

    When is the right time to take a stand—and when is silence the smarter move? In this thought-provoking episode, Monica shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur navigating the tricky intersection of politics, personal beliefs, and business strategy. With examples from her own business and high-profile brands like Tesla and Target, she breaks down the importance of staying true to your values without compromising your brand. If you’ve ever wondered whether your opinions belong in your business, this episode will help you find clarity and confidence in your approach. Episode Quote: The mixing of politics and business not only is detrimental to politics, as is frequently observed, but even much more so to business. ~ Ludwig von Mises Questions answered: Should you talk about politics in your business? What’s the risk of aligning your business with your personal views? When is it okay—or necessary—to speak out? How do you handle customer backlash or brand fallout? What questions should you ask before making a public statement? Listen to this episode now to gain the tools and insight you need to protect your brand and lead with purpose. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help more entrepreneurs find their way to success! Get the Level Up Living Newsletter ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠⁠ Get your⁠⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠⁠ Ways to reach Monica: Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast Email: monica@monicaallen.com

    16 min

  7. MAY 23

    252 - How AI Is Changing Around You & What to Do Next with Ethan King

    In this episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica welcomes back entrepreneur, author, and AI strategist Ethan King to unpack what’s currently happening in the fast-moving world of artificial intelligence (AI). From game-changing updates in image and voice tech to the real secret weapon behind AI success...this conversation is packed with tools and truths every business owner should hear. Whether you're overwhelmed by AI or overusing it, Ethan offers a powerful mindset shift and practical advice to help you stay relevant, competitive, and real. AI is evolving fast, but how you use it matters even more, and this podcast is here to help you keep up. Episode Quote: At the end of the day, the real AI is your authentic influence and when you fuse that together with Artificial intelligence, that’s how you win. ~ Ethan King Questions answered: What are the latest AI tools small businesses should know about in 2025? Can AI-generated images really be used for marketing? How do new AI phone systems differ from traditional automated menus? Is it worth paying for the Pro version of ChatGPT? What’s the best way to start using AI without losing your personal touch? Ready to bring AI into your business the smart way?Listen now, subscribe to the show, and leave a review. Don’t forget to connect with Monica on Instagram @becomeyourownbosspodcast to share how YOU are using AI in your business or life. Click here⁠⁠ to get the Level Up Living Newsletter. ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠ Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠ Ways to reach Monica: Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast Email: monica@monicaallen.com

    44 min

  8. MAY 16

    251 - Are You Playing by Your Rules or Someone Else’s?

    In this episode, we’re getting real about the pressure to grow, hustle, and perform according to everyone else’s expectations. Whether it’s social media trends, industry “shoulds,” or well-meaning friends giving unsolicited advice—there’s always noise about what your business should look like. But here’s the truth: your business should work for you. Monica shares candid stories—from her own journey, her conversation with entrepreneur Tracy Nicole, to examples from fellow business owners who’ve chosen peace over pressure. You’ll hear why defining success on your own terms isn’t just okay—it’s essential. Because burnout isn’t the badge of honor, and bigger isn’t always better. This episode is your reminder to build with intention, not just ambition. Let’s talk boundaries, alignment, and what it really means to design a business that supports your life—not swallows it whole. Listen in and ask yourself: Are you playing by your rules… or someone else’s? Episode Quote: Just do what works for you, because there will always be someone who thinks differently. – Michelle Obama Click here to get the Level Up Living Newsletter.

    15 min
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About

Dive into entrepreneurship with Monica Allen, an entrepreneur with over 20 years of business ownership. This podcast is for you if you desire to start your own business & defy the odds of failure or you are less than 5 years into your business & desire to grow your revenue and profit. Learn from diverse entrepreneurs and experts about marketing, team dynamics, finances, social media, and more. Entrepreneurship might feel isolating at times, but with this podcast by your side, you'll never walk alone. Elevate your business game and master your entrepreneurial life and truly become a BOSS.

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