The Seed: Growing Your Business

Lisa Resnick Founder of Dandelion-Inc

Welcome to The Seed: Growing Your Business, brought to you by Dandelion Inc. I’m your host, Lisa Resnick, and this podcast is all about connecting, developing, and supporting women in business. Join me as we explore tips and insights on leadership, business development, and social media strategies that can help you thrive. We’ll also hear from amazing guests who share their stories and experiences, offering inspiration and practical advice for your entrepreneurial journey. So, tune in, download, like, and subscribe. And remember, if you love what you hear, share the love with others. Together, let’s cultivate growth and empower women in business.

  1. 2D AGO

    Ep 124- You Don't Need More Time

    Why You Feel Behind (Even With Support): The Cost of Unused Value Let’s start with something that might feel a little uncomfortable—but also incredibly freeing. Sometimes the answer isn’t eliminating what you have going on. Sometimes the answer is actually using what you’re already paying for. When time feels scarce, our instinct is to cut. Cancel. Pause. Simplify. And sometimes that is the right move. But other times, we remove the very things meant to support us—not because they aren’t effective, but because we’re overwhelmed. And that’s what I want to talk about today. Because time isn’t always the real issue. Unused value is. What We Do When Life Feels Full When life gets full, our nervous systems go into protection mode. We start thinking: “I don’t have time for this.” “I’ll come back to it later.” “I just need to clear the deck.” So we disengage. We cancel memberships. We stop showing up to spaces that were helping us. We avoid tools we once believed in. Not intentionally—but reflexively. And then something interesting happens. We lose: Accountability Momentum Support Perspective Eventually, we feel stuck again… and start searching for the next thing. That cycle isn’t about commitment. It’s about capacity—and not knowing how to adjust engagement without opting out entirely. Access Is Not the Same as Activation There’s a big difference between having access to something and using it intentionally. Access without activation doesn’t help you. It actually adds mental clutter. You know it’s there. You know you should use it. And that quiet pressure turns into guilt. This shows up everywhere: Courses people never open Communities people join but don’t engage in Tools people pay for but avoid because they feel behind The problem usually isn’t the resource. It’s the lack of integration. Support only works when it fits the season you’re in. You Don’t Have to Show Up to Everything for It to Be Worth It I want to say this clearly—without judgment. People often believe they need to show up to everything for support to be “worth it.” That’s not true. The value isn’t in attending every call. It’s in using what you need when you need it. Some seasons you show up for accountability. Other seasons you show up for ideas. Sometimes you just listen quietly and absorb. All of that still counts. You don’t need more time. You need permission to engage differently. When someone activates even one aspect—one conversation, one resource, one check-in—something shifts. Support becomes a multiplier, not another obligation. How to Activate What You Already Have (Practically) Let’s make this usable. Step 1: Audit (No Shame, Just Facts) Ask yourself: What am I currently paying for that’s meant to support my growth? What am I fully using? What am I ignoring? This isn’t about guilt. It’s about clarity. Step 2: Choose One Thing to Activate Not everything. Just one. One monthly call One resource One accountability check One person to connect with That’s it. Step 3: Lower the Bar for Engagement You don’t need to “catch up.” You don’t need to prove anything. Just show up as you are—where you are. Step 4: Let Support Work With Your Life If something requires more energy than you currently have, adapt how you use it. Don’t automatically eliminate it. Before you cancel. Before you start over. Before you assume you don’t have time… Ask yourself: Am I actually using what I already have? Because sometimes the support you’re looking for isn’t missing. It’s just waiting to be activated. And using what you’ve already invested in might be the most time-saving move you make. Action Steps Write this down: Everything you’re currently paying for to support your growth Circle one thing you’ll activate this week Decide how you’ll engage at your current capacity—not your ideal one This isn’t about starting from scratch. It’s about showing up as you are. And giving yourself permission to stop starting over. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, behind, or like your time is constantly slipping through your fingers, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because no one ever taught you how to manage time in a way that honors: Energy Priorities Real life That’s why I host my live-only Time & Productivity Session — focused on implementation, not theory. And if you’re craving connection, accountability, and honest conversations about building something that lasts, you’ll find that inside The Patch, the Dandelion-Inc membership. Because staying in the game? That’s the work — and it’s enough.

    10 min
  2. FEB 4

    Ep 123- How to Market Test a New Idea: Inner Circles, Outer Circles, and the Right Feedback

    How to Market Test a New Idea the Right Way (And Who Should Be at the Table) If you’re thinking about adding something new—a product, a service, a program, a nonprofit initiative, or even expanding what you already have—this is the pause you need before you spend money, announce anything publicly, or build yourself into a corner. Because here’s the truth most people learn the hard way: You can’t build in isolation. But you also can’t invite everyone to the table. That’s where people get tripped up. They either build alone and hope it works, or they ask everyone they know and end up overwhelmed, discouraged, and confused. Market testing done well is neither of those things. Market Testing Is About Information — Not Approval Let’s clear something up first. Market testing is not: Polling Instagram and letting strangers decide your future Asking people who’ve never bought from you what you should sell Looking for validation that your idea is “good” Market testing is: Asking whether a real problem exists Understanding if your idea solves that problem Learning how people experience, understand, and value what you’re building You’re not asking Should I do this? You’re asking If I do this, does it solve something real for someone real? That distinction matters. Because the moment you ask the wrong people the wrong questions, your confidence takes a hit—not because the idea is bad, but because the feedback is irrelevant. You Need Two Circles — And They Serve Different Purposes Most people skip this part entirely. You don’t need “everyone’s opinion.” You need two intentional circles. The Inner Circle These are the people already invested in you and your mission. They: Know your work Understand your audience Care enough to be honest Can tell you when something doesn’t fit Your inner circle helps you answer questions like: Is this aligned with what I already do? Does this make sense based on my audience? What am I not seeing? These are not hype people. They’re also not dream killers. They’re grounded truth-tellers. Examples: For nonprofits: board leadership, long-time volunteers, trusted donors, community partners For businesses/services: existing clients, members, advisors, collaborators, people who’ve already purchased from you If you skip your inner circle, you risk building something that looks good—but doesn’t actually fit. The Outer Circle Your outer circle comes later. These people represent your broader market. They’re less emotionally invested, which makes their feedback incredibly valuable at the right stage. Outer circle feedback helps answer: Would someone pay for this? Do they understand it quickly? Does it solve something urgent or meaningful? Outer circle feedback is about validation, not design. Stop Asking People — Start Assigning Hats Here’s where this gets practical. Instead of thinking in terms of people, think in terms of roles. One person can wear more than one hat—but no one should wear them all. The 5 Hats You Need at the Table 1. The Vision Hat (You) This is your mission, your why, your non-negotiables. No one else gets to decide this. 2. The Reality Hat This person asks: How will this actually work? What does this require operationally? What’s the time and energy cost? They protect you from burnout—even when it feels uncomfortable. 3. The Market Hat This person understands: Buyer behavior Attention spans Messaging clarity They help translate your idea into something the world can understand. 4. The Financial Hat This person looks at: Breakeven points Risk Sustainability This hat is especially important for nonprofits and service-based businesses. 5. The User Hat This is lived experience. Someone who would actually use what you’re creating. This is where assumptions get challenged—in the best way. The mistake? Asking one person to wear all five hats. That’s too much weight—and it skews feedback fast. What You Must Do Before You Build Anything No matter what you’re launching, do these five things first: Define the problem clearly If you can’t say it in one sentence, you’re not ready. Identify who it’s for — and who it’s not This protects you from scope creep and burnout. Test with conversation, not commitment Listen for patterns, not praise. Run a low-risk pilot Small group. Limited time. Clear boundaries. Evaluate before expanding What worked? What drained you? What surprised you? Market testing is about learning before scaling. Your idea doesn’t need more opinions. It needs the right people, at the right time, wearing the right hats. That’s how you protect both the work—and yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, behind, or like your time is constantly slipping through your fingers, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because no one ever taught you how to manage time in a way that honors: Energy Priorities Real life That’s why I host my live-only Time & Productivity Session — focused on implementation, not theory. And if you’re craving connection, accountability, and honest conversations about building something that lasts, you’ll find that inside The Patch, the Dandelion-Inc membership. Because staying in the game? That’s the work — and it’s enough.

    13 min
  3. JAN 28

    Ep 122 - Quiet Seasons Still Count: Why Preparation Isn’t Procrastination

    Feeling Behind? Quiet Progress Is Still Progress (And It’s Often the Real Kind) If you’re listening to this and you feel like you’re moving slower than everyone else right now, stay right here. This is for the people who are quietly working. Quietly pushing forward. Quietly holding it together while life beautifully throws a lot of crap your way. For the ones who aren’t announcing every move, every win, every pivot. The ones doing root work even when no one sees it. Let’s say this clearly before we go any further: This is not a hustle-harder season. Quiet does not mean you’re falling behind. And preparation is not procrastination. The “Catch Up” Conversation That Leaves You Feeling Less Than You know those moments when you finally catch up with someone you haven’t talked to in a while? Maybe it’s coffee. Maybe it’s a phone call. Maybe you run into each other at the grocery store. And within ten minutes you get the rundown: How busy they are. Everything they’re juggling. Launches, deadlines, chaos, exhaustion, kids, work… delivered rapid-fire. You listen. You nod. You keep up. Then it’s your turn. And all you’ve got is: “Same old, same old.” And you walk away feeling exhausted. Maybe annoyed. And if we’re being honest, maybe a little less than—like your steadiness didn’t measure up to their frenzy. If that’s you, you’re exactly who needs this message: Visibility is not the same as progress. The Cultural Lie: Loud = Progress We live in a world that rewards visible momentum. If it’s loud, it counts. If it’s public, it matters. If it’s fast, it’s impressive. We celebrate big launches and constant announcements. We glamorize “booked and busy.” We wear exhaustion like a badge of honor—especially in January, when the pressure is ruthless. But here’s what we don’t talk about enough: Loud does not mean aligned. Busy does not mean effective. Fast does not mean sustainable. Some of the most important seasons of growth are completely invisible. And from the outside, it might look like nothing is happening. But underneath? Everything is. What Quiet Work Actually Looks Like Quiet work gets misunderstood because it doesn’t screenshot well. Quiet work is not doing nothing. Quiet work looks like: Real thinking (not scrolling) Structuring ideas instead of rushing them Editing what no longer fits Saying no without needing to justify it Letting ideas mature instead of forcing them out early Quiet work can also look like: Building systems no one sees Reworking pricing to reflect your value Setting boundaries with clients or vendors Doing a calendar audit and realizing where your energy is leaking Tightening offers instead of adding new ones None of that is flashy. All of it matters. And here’s the part people forget: Quiet work is often harder than visible work. Because quiet work requires trust. It requires patience. And it requires you to resist the urge to perform productivity just to feel like you belong. If you’ve ever left a conversation feeling drained because your life doesn’t sound chaotic enough, that’s not a reflection of your ambition. That’s a reflection of a culture that confuses noise with worth. Same Old Doesn’t Mean Stagnant If your answer lately has been “same old,” hear this: Same old doesn’t mean stagnant. It often means stable. It means intentional. It means you’re not chasing chaos just to prove you’re moving. That isn’t weakness. That’s wisdom. And you should be proud of yourself. Growth Doesn’t Need Noise Let’s reframe this in a way your nervous system can actually believe: Consistency beats urgency every single time. Ask yourself: What looks small right now but will matter long-term? Where am I rushing just to feel productive—not because it’s necessary? What am I quietly strengthening that doesn’t need an audience yet? Not everything needs to be shared in real time. Not every season needs commentary. Not every win needs validation. Some seasons are meant to be lived and not narrated. Nothing Planted in Winter Is Wasted Just because it’s quiet doesn’t mean it’s empty. Just because others are loud doesn’t mean they’re ahead. Just because you are preparing doesn’t mean you are procrastinating. If you’re in a season of reflection, restructuring, or rebuilding—honor it. Reflect. Don’t react. Trust the work you’re doing, even when it doesn’t make for a good social media update. Action Steps for Quiet Progress Write down: One thing you’re quietly working on that doesn’t need an audience yet. One place where you’re rushing just to feel busy. One boundary or system you will strengthen this week. Quiet seasons still count. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, behind, or like your time is constantly slipping through your fingers, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because no one ever taught you how to manage time in a way that honors: Energy Priorities Real life That’s why I host my live-only Time & Productivity Session — focused on implementation, not theory. And if you’re craving connection, accountability, and honest conversations about building something that lasts, you’ll find that inside The Patch, the Dandelion-Inc membership. Because staying in the game? That’s the work — and it’s enough.

    12 min
  4. JAN 21

    Ep.121- Building a Business That Doesn’t Resent You: Signs of Burnout + How to Reset

    Building a Business That Doesn’t Resent You: How to Prevent Burnout Without Burning It All Down There’s a version of success that looks perfect on paper. Revenue is coming in. Clients are happy. People compliment your work. You’ve built something real. And yet… it feels heavy in your body. If you’re here right now—successful, capable, “doing it well”—but privately irritated, drained, or stuck in a low-grade state of dread, I want you to stay right here. Because businesses don’t usually burn us out overnight. They do it slowly—through a thousand small compromises we keep calling “just this season.” Somewhere along the way, the thing you created for freedom can start to feel like a cage. This post is about how to build a business that doesn’t resent you—and just as importantly, how to build one that the people working with you don’t end up resenting either. Because success that costs your nervous system, relationships, and sense of self isn’t sustainable—and it’s not the point. Resentment Doesn’t Scream. It Whispers. Resentment rarely shows up with fireworks. It leaks. It disguises itself as: “I’m just tired.” “It’s been a rough week.” “This is what growth feels like.” “Other people would love to be where I am.” But underneath that… something feels off. Here are the most common signs resentment is already present. 1) You dread clients you used to love Their name pops up and your shoulders tense. You delay replying—not because you’re busy, but because you don’t want to engage. That dread often isn’t because they’re “bad clients.” It’s because you’re carrying misaligned expectations too long. 2) You’re overgiving and under-recovering You keep saying yes. You keep adding value. You keep throwing in “just one more thing.” And then you quietly feel bitter that no one notices how much you’re giving. Resentment thrives where generosity isn’t reciprocated or respected—and that’s just human nature. You’re not “bad” for feeling it. You’re human. 3) You avoid your own business You procrastinate on work that normally excites you. You stay busy with side projects. Your house has never been cleaner. You reorganize everything. You scroll. Avoidance isn’t laziness—it’s often self-protection. 4) You feel trapped in what you created “I can’t raise my prices now.” “I can’t change this.” “People depend on me.” “I can’t slow down—everything would fall apart.” That’s not leadership. That’s fear dressed up as responsibility. Most Resentment Isn’t Caused by Failure—It’s Caused by Unexamined Success This is where I plant my flag: Many people don’t resent their business because they’re failing. They resent it because they grew—and never updated the structure. Here are the biggest culprits. Culprit #1: Boundaries that evolved… but you didn’t update them What worked early on doesn’t work as you scale. Access that once felt generous becomes draining. Availability that once felt flexible becomes expected. Boundaries aren’t walls. They’re instructions. And instructions can be updated. Culprit #2: Pricing fear Underpricing doesn’t just hurt revenue. It erodes respect. When you’re not paid fairly, you subconsciously expect gratitude to fill the gap—and it never does. Pricing is tricky, especially in service businesses where “value” feels subjective. But here’s what I know: Survival pricing might get you started. It can’t sustain you. Culprit #3: Over-identifying with your work When your business becomes your identity: Critique feels personal Setbacks feel like verdicts on your worth You stop knowing where you end and the business begins That’s a fast track to burnout. You need an identity outside of what you produce—even if you love what you do. Culprit #4: Saying yes early on… and never revisiting it Early-stage yeses are often survival-driven. But survival strategies don’t always belong in growth seasons. What once kept you afloat may now be the very thing pulling you under. The Real Fix: Renegotiate the Relationship (Don’t Burn It Down) Needing to repair your relationship with your business doesn’t mean you need to set it on fire. It means you need to renegotiate. 1) Rewrite expectations (yours and everyone else’s) Ask yourself: What am I expecting of myself that I never agreed to? What am I allowing others to expect of me by default? Clarity stops resentment. 2) Adjust access Not everyone needs immediate access to you. Not everything needs a same-day response. This one was a learning curve for me. I used to be an immediate responder—because I was trying to be reliable and helpful. But it created a pattern where I was constantly reacting, constantly “on,” and I could feel the slow drain. Access is not entitlement. 3) Design work around energy (not just time) Time management without energy awareness is useless. Notice: When are you most clear? When do you need recovery? What drains you faster than it should? Your body matters. Build like it does. 4) Let seasons change Some seasons are expansion. Some are maintenance. Some are rest and repair. Shifting gears isn’t failure. It’s maturity. Your business should evolve as you do. “Your Business Should Support Your Life—Not Replace It” If your business feels heavy right now, it doesn’t mean you did it wrong. It means you grew—and the structure hasn’t caught up yet. That’s fixable. That’s allowed. And it will keep happening in new ways as you rise. Action Steps: Two Small Shifts This Week Audit your resentment. Where do you feel irritated, exhausted, or trapped? That’s information—not failure. Choose one boundary to reset. A response time. A price. A delivery expectation. A meeting you no longer need. Small shifts restore trust between you and your business. You are not meant to resent what you created. And neither are the people working with you. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, behind, or like your time is constantly slipping through your fingers, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because no one ever taught you how to manage time in a way that honors: Energy Priorities Real life That’s why I host my live-only Time & Productivity Session — focused on implementation, not theory. And if you’re craving connection, accountability, and honest conversations about building something that lasts, you’ll find that inside The Patch, the Dandelion-Inc membership. Because staying in the game? That’s the work — and it’s enough.

    22 min
  5. JAN 14

    Ep.120- Real Estate Investing for Beginners: How to Build Wealth With Rentals (Even Out of State)

    Real Estate Investing for Beginners: How to Build Wealth with Rental Properties (Even Out of State) Real estate has a way of sitting in the back of your mind. You hear someone mention a “rich grandma” who owned rentals. You meet people who seem to have “extra money” and they casually say, “We have a couple properties.” Or you hit a point in your career where you realize: I don’t want to leave what I love… I just want another way to grow wealth. That’s why this episode of The Seed felt personal for me. I lived in the real estate world for years. I’ve seen the best parts of it — and the parts that can chew you up if you’re not clear on what you’re actually building. And in this conversation with Melissa Nash, we get into the real side of real estate investing: the long game, the systems, the risks, the mistakes people make, and why owning even one property can change your financial future. This isn’t a “get rich quick” episode. It’s a “build long-term wealth with intention” one. Real Estate Is Still One of the Most Powerful Wealth Tools Melissa’s story starts the way a lot of real estate stories do — with observation. Her husband’s grandmother owned single family homes in Los Angeles decades ago, bought them with a disciplined approach (including that classic 20% down mindset), held them, and built a retirement from them. Then something happened that’s far more common than people realize: when she passed, the family sold everything. The generational wealth ended — not because it wasn’t valuable, but because no one understood how to manage it. And that right there is the lesson: Real estate isn’t just about buying property. It’s about learning how to hold it. Entrepreneurship, Recession Lessons, and the “Now What?” Moment Melissa is an entrepreneur at heart. She built a children’s clothing company that took off — until 2008/2009 changed everything. Stores closed. The market shifted. The business wasn’t recession proof. And instead of walking away from what she built, she sold it — even if it wasn’t a massive payday — because value is value. Trademarks, inventory, brand equity… that matters. Then came the question most business owners hit at least once: What’s next — and how do I build something that lasts? That’s when real estate came back into the picture. Why Being a Real Estate Agent Isn’t the Same as Being an Investor Melissa got her real estate license in California thinking it would be the best way to learn investing. And then she realized something that many agents quietly feel: Real estate can steal your time if you’re not careful. Open houses, weekends, evenings, constant availability… it’s not “freedom” by default. And for her, the lifestyle mismatch made one thing clear: If she wanted to stay in real estate long-term, she needed a model that protected her time — and that’s where investor-focused real estate came in. Out-of-State Real Estate Investing: Why It Works Here’s what Melissa said that I want you to sit with: The math doesn’t math in California the way it can in the Midwest or South. Many investors start in high-cost markets and hit a wall. Out-of-state investing opens options because you can often buy in affordable markets where the rent-to-price ratio supports real cash flow. She bought her first rental in Birmingham, Alabama — and she did it without trying to play agent in a state where she didn’t know the laws, contracts, or norms. That matters. Because investing out-of-state isn’t about ego. It’s about systems. What “Turnkey” Real Estate Investing Actually Means Turnkey can mean a lot of things, but in the way Melissa describes it, the goal is simple: A property renovated for investor ownership A tenant-ready setup A vetted property management system Numbers that work from month one (or at least cover the property sustainably) The point isn’t “easy.” The point is structured. And she emphasized the part people skip: You’re not just buying a property. You’re buying a team. The Two Things That Separate Smart Investors From Stressed Investors If you take nothing else from this conversation, take these: 1) Reserves are non-negotiable Vacancy is not an “if.” It’s a “when.” Maintenance is not an “if.” It’s a “when.” So if someone says, “I have $40,000 to invest,” the real question is: Does that include reserve money set aside? Because buying a property without reserves isn’t investing — it’s gambling. 2) Property management can make or break you Melissa was blunt (and she’s right): asking only about the management fee is missing the point. Most charge roughly the same range. The real question is: What do they actually do — and how do they protect you? One example she shared that I love: home warranties. You can buy one after purchase, add coverage like sewer line protection, and a good property manager will actually coordinate warranty calls for you — meaning you stay hands-off while your systems handle the headache. That’s the game. The Power of One Property Melissa said it best: Your tenant is essentially buying you a house over time. When you zoom out, you’re getting: Cash flow (even modest) Appreciation Mortgage paydown (someone else paying your principal) Inflation hedge (locked-in loan with tomorrow’s dollars) Tax benefits (often substantial when structured correctly) This isn’t Lamborghini overnight. This is long-term wealth with intention. Women and Real Estate Wealth We also touched on something that deserves more space: Women need to play a bigger role in real estate investing. Not as a “trend.” Not as a hustle. But as a legitimate wealth-building strategy — especially for women who want a diversified financial life that doesn’t rely on a single salary stream. The goal isn’t to become a finance robot. The goal is protection, options, and freedom. Listen to the Episode If you’ve ever said: “I want another income stream, but I don’t want to blow up my life.” “I’m curious about rentals but I don’t know where to start.” “I want long-term wealth — not constant grinding.” This conversation will meet you where you are. Listen to the full episode of The Seed with Melissa Nash and start building your knowledge one smart step at a time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, behind, or like your time is constantly slipping through your fingers, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because no one ever taught you how to manage time in a way that honors: Energy Priorities Real life That’s why I host my live-only Time & Productivity Session — focused on implementation, not theory. And if you’re craving connection, accountability, and honest conversations about building something that lasts, you’ll find that inside The Patch, the Dandelion-Inc membership. Because staying in the game? That’s the work — and it’s enough.

    44 min
  6. JAN 6

    Ep.119- Staying in the Game: Why Long-Term Business Is Built on Endurance

    Staying in the Game: Why Long-Term Business Is Built on Endurance (Not Hype) Staying Isn’t Sexy — But It’s Everything We love to romanticize growth. Big launches. Fast scaling. Viral moments. Explosive revenue months. But here’s the truth most people don’t talk about: Long-term business is a lot quieter than that. It looks like: Plateaus that last longer than you expected Revenue that stabilizes instead of skyrockets Work that feels repetitive, even boring, some days And boredom doesn’t mean broken. It means you’re building something real. Whether you’re a service provider, product-based business, nonprofit leader, solopreneur, founder, or executive director — the businesses that last aren’t built on hype. They’re built on endurance. Most Businesses Don’t Fail — People Quit This is uncomfortable, but it matters. I’ve watched respected brands shut down: Email lists that once fueled growth Courses that used to sell out Communities that once thrived Not because they failed — but because the market shifted. What worked five years ago doesn’t always work now. Sometimes what worked last year is already being phased out. And instead of adapting, many people: Get discouraged Take change personally instead of strategically Decide the rules change too much Burn out and walk away Staying in the game requires paying attention — not panicking. Staying in Your Lane Doesn’t Mean Ignoring Traffic I’m a “head down, do the work” kind of person. But staying in your lane does not mean ignoring what’s happening around you. AI has changed the landscape. The internet democratized education. Technology has removed humans from parts of the process — and pretending that hasn’t happened isn’t noble. It’s dangerous. You don’t have to adopt every trend. You don’t have to chase every shiny object. But if there isn’t a mirror available, you add one. Long-term builders look honestly at: What’s shifting What’s becoming obsolete What’s being asked for — adjacent, not opposite That’s not selling out. That’s staying relevant. Reinvention Without Identity Whiplash Long-term business does require reinvention — but not constant pivots that leave you unrecognizable. The real questions are: Is this still serving my people? Is this aligned with how I want to work? Is the market asking for something adjacent, not opposite? Reinvention should feel like refinement — not a personality crisis. You Are Not Your Worst Month This is where most people get tripped up. They attach their identity to: Revenue Engagement numbers Enrollment totals Applause And when those numbers dip, their sense of self goes with it. But your business is shaping you just as much as you are shaping it. Who you become by staying matters more than any single result. Long-term builders learn how to: Separate self-worth from sales Detach meaning from metrics Stay curious instead of defensive If your business only works when everything is going well, it’s not resilient — and resilience is what keeps you in the game. You are not: Your quietest launch Your worst month Your engagement dip You are the person who shows up anyway. That’s endurance. You Cannot Do This Alone (Not Long-Term) Solo grind is romanticized — but it’s not sustainable. Community doesn’t mean noise. It doesn’t mean comparison. It doesn’t mean constant promotion. It means perspective. People who can say: “I’m seeing this too.” “You’re not crazy.” “Here’s what I’m noticing — let’s talk it through.” When markets shift, isolation is what makes people quit. Community is what normalizes change instead of turning it into fear. And no — community is not just a place to promote. It’s a place to stay human while building something meaningful. Staying in the game doesn’t mean staying rigid. It means staying connected. The Real Win Is Staying If you’re tired but not done — this is for you. If you’ve questioned whether it’s worth it — this is for you. If you’ve noticed the shifts and wondered if you’re behind — you’re not. You’re paying attention. And that’s how people stay. The real win isn’t: Being everywhere Being first Dominating the market The real win is staying long enough to: Adapt Mature Build something that actually lasts Progress isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up — messy and brave — one seed at a time. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, behind, or like your time is constantly slipping through your fingers, it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because no one ever taught you how to manage time in a way that honors: Energy Priorities Real life That’s why I host my live-only Time & Productivity Session — focused on implementation, not theory. And if you’re craving connection, accountability, and honest conversations about building something that lasts, you’ll find that inside The Patch, the Dandelion-Inc membership. Because staying in the game? That’s the work — and it’s enough.

    11 min
  7. 12/31/2025

    Ep.118- Build 2026 with Intention: Momentum, Alignment & What Matters Most

    Build 2026 with Intention: Momentum, Alignment & What Matters Most We are officially done with the idea that every new year has to look like the ones before it. No more resolutions that disappear by week two. No more “new year, new me” pressure. No more chasing what looks good online instead of what actually feels good to wake up to. Founder and CEO of Dandelion-Inc 2026 isn’t about reinventing yourself — it’s about aligning with yourself. Because intention builds momentum. Intention builds alignment. And intention builds a business and a life that actually fits the human inside of it. This is the year we stop running in circles and start walking — steadily, confidently — in the right direction. Why Speed Means Nothing Without Direction There’s a lot of noise out there telling us to hustle harder: ➡️ Sell more ➡️ Post more ➡️ Scale faster But here’s the truth most people avoid: Speed means nothing if you’re running in the wrong direction. Success that demands burnout isn’t success — it’s survival. You deserve more than surviving your own dreams. Let Your Business Evolve With You We don’t talk enough about this — your business should grow with you… or it starts to feel like a cage. Maybe you’ve outgrown old offers. Maybe you’re ready to go deeper, not wider. Maybe your purpose has shifted — and it’s time your work reflects it. 2026 is not the year to shrink yourself to fit outdated goals. It’s the year you rise into what’s next. Momentum Comes From Intention, Not Activity Busy is not the same as building. And if everything is a priority… nothing is. So here are three grounding questions to build your 2026 with clarity and confidence: 1️⃣ What do I want to be known for this year? 2️⃣ What am I building that lasts beyond this year? 3️⃣ What am I committed to showing up for every single week? Weekly consistency builds momentum. Momentum builds confidence. Confidence fuels growth that lasts. Build What Supports Your Life — Not Consumes It Intentional growth includes: ✅ Systems that save your sanity ✅ Offers that create revenue and impact ✅ Processes that give you breathing room ✅ Visibility that builds connection, not noise If 2025 was the year of figuring it out… 2026 is the year of building it out. Not perfectly. Not constantly. Not alone. You Don’t Have to Build Alone Real talk? Women entrepreneurs have been building in isolation for far too long. When we build inside community, things shift: ✨ Clarity becomes natural ✨ Support becomes consistent ✨ Confidence becomes lived — not performed ✨ Growth feels aligned instead of forced That’s why I created The Patch, our global membership for women building bold things with purpose and community beside them. If you’re ready for alignment, momentum, and meaningful expansion in 2026 — this is where it happens. 👉 Join us at: dandelioninc.com/patch Your Year of Intention Starts Now Let this be the year you: 🔹 Move with intention 🔹 Build what matters 🔹 Stop waiting for permission 🔹 Step into the work you’re meant to do next You don’t need hype. You don’t need to change who you are. You just need clarity — and support. Because progress isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up — messy and brave — one seed at a time. Here’s to the year we build intentionally… together. 🌱 Keep Going—with Support If this resonated, join me inside The Patch—the Dandelion-Inc membership where community, accountability, and honest momentum meet. Explore what’s inside: dandelion-inc.com Sponsored by Inperium — a unified network helping nonprofit and human service organizations reduce costs, increase efficiency, and scale impact while staying true to their mission. Learn more at inperium.org

    12 min
  8. 12/24/2025

    Ep.117- From Burnout to Better

    From the Courtroom to Clarity: Wendy Meadows on Choosing Mediation, Going Solo, and Beating Burnout Some people believe hardship should be the rite of passage. “I suffered, so you should too.” Today’s guest, Wendy Meadows, chose the opposite: learn, evolve, and then make the path easier for the next woman. Wendy spent years as a family law litigator before realizing the role no longer aligned with who she is. She turned off the litigation spigot, built a solo practice, and shifted to family law mediation—where curiosity, calm leadership, and practical systems do what conflict rarely can: create durable solutions. Why “I Suffered, So You Should Too” Is a Broken Model Pain doesn’t have to be a template. Real leadership looks like shortening the learning curve for others. Wendy’s lens: use your story to open doors, not gatekeep them. The Pivot: From Litigation to Family Law Mediation Mediation lets families design outcomes privately and humanely. It fits Wendy’s strengths: listening, clarity, and future-focused agreements. Key shift: from “win/lose” to interest-based problem solving. Building a Solo Practice Without Burning Out Reputation and relationships beat aggressive advertising. “Top of mind” marketing: consistent presence on LinkedIn and Facebook, clear messaging about mediation services. Make the ask: tell colleagues you now mediate; referrals follow clarity. Coaching Lawyer Moms: Structure, Sanity, and Sustainable Growth Wendy now coaches burned-out lawyer moms and attorneys who want to go solo. Her coaching centers on: Defining the work you actually want to do Simplifying operations (intake, billing, client experience) Saying no to misaligned matters and yes to sustainable revenue SEO cues: burnout for lawyers, coaching for attorneys, leave big law, attorney work–life balance The Pause Time Playbook: Journaling That Changes Your Day Wendy’s Pause Time Playbook is a simple daily practice: Set your compass each morning (who you’ll be, what matters). Rehearse high-stakes moments before they happen. Reflect at day’s end to lock in learning and confidence. Pen-to-paper intention turns reaction into leadership. Practical Takeaways You Can Use This Week Get honest about alignment. If the role no longer fits, explore alternatives like mediation or a limited-scope practice. Tell people what you do now. Clear, repeated messaging builds referral paths. Systemize once, benefit daily. Intake, payment, templates, and checklists save hours. Journal with purpose. Decide who you’ll be before the hard moment arrives. Listen to the Episode Hear the full conversation with Wendy Meadows on The Seed to learn how she left litigation, built a values-aligned practice, and helps other attorneys do the same. Keep Going—with Support If this resonated, join me inside The Patch—the Dandelion-Inc membership where community, accountability, and honest momentum meet. Explore what’s inside: dandelion-inc.com Sponsored by Inperium — a unified network helping nonprofit and human service organizations reduce costs, increase efficiency, and scale impact while staying true to their mission. Learn more at inperium.org

    39 min
5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Seed: Growing Your Business, brought to you by Dandelion Inc. I’m your host, Lisa Resnick, and this podcast is all about connecting, developing, and supporting women in business. Join me as we explore tips and insights on leadership, business development, and social media strategies that can help you thrive. We’ll also hear from amazing guests who share their stories and experiences, offering inspiration and practical advice for your entrepreneurial journey. So, tune in, download, like, and subscribe. And remember, if you love what you hear, share the love with others. Together, let’s cultivate growth and empower women in business.