Lean Out Your Business Podcast Crista Grasso

Do you sometimes wonder if your marketing efforts are worth the time and money you're investing?

It's common to question whether our strategies are hitting the mark or just burning through resources.
In this episode, I am joined by marketing expert Iris Goldfeder, to dive deep into effective marketing strategies that actually work, especially during challenging economic times! 
Iris Goldfeder is the founder of GasStoveCreative, a marketing agency that delivers completely custom, full-service marketing strategies. As a chef for over 10 years, she learned that in order to create delicious food, you need the right recipe, and also a splash of creativity. After 25 years in the marketing field, she's come to realize that the same thing is true for your marketing strategy.
In this interview, Iris highlights the importance of truly listening to clients, understanding their needs, and not cutting back on marketing. We discuss common marketing mistakes and the importance of professional help for better results.
We also explore the changing world of SEO and AI, emphasizing the unique value of human expertise. Iris stresses the need for the right systems and a heartfelt approach to build strong connections and grow your business.
If you’re looking to enhance your marketing strategy and business operations, you don't want to miss this episode!
 
"Building strong connections through marketing takes time and consistency."
-           Iris Goldfeder
 
In this episode we explore:
- Benefits of a heart-centered business approach
- Knowing when to hire a Marketing Pro vs. DIY
- Balancing growth and marketing optimization
- The impact of video in building trust
- Why immediate results don't always happen
 
 
Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/igoldfeder/
https://www.facebook.com/gasstovecreative
https://www.instagram.com/gasstovecreative
https://gasstovecreative.com
https://thecookbookpodcast.com
 
 
Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business?
We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale
Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreat.
Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation.
If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.
For full show notes and more visit https://www.leanoutmethod.com/podcast
 
 
 

How can businesses ensure they are scaling the right aspects of their operations rather than just amplifying existing problems?

Why is it crucial to reduce uncertainty before scaling a product or service? And what are some effective ways to create and implement systems and processes before scaling?
In this episode, I explore an important topic: what doesn't scale. I start by highlighting the need to simplify and streamline business processes before scaling to avoid making existing problems worse. I cover the different stages of a business, from just starting out to growing, and how not addressing uncertainty at any stage can end up causing issues in the long run.
I also talk about the disadvantages of relying too much on certain individuals to fix problems, as this can stop the business from growing sustainably. Through real-world examples and proven strategies, I show why having clear systems and processes is crucial for smooth operations. I emphasize the importance of focusing on strategic vision instead of getting stuck on everyday tasks.
Listen in to get practical tips and learn how to use AI to streamline and automate your operations.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
The 3 things most businesses do that don't scale Why you're stuck on the hustle hamster wheel What's needed for sustainable scaling Which stages of business support scaling & which don't What's needed for sustainable scaling   
Join my mailing list to receive the workbook for this episode and all solo episode to get the most out of your listening! Sign up at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/insider 

Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business?
We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale
Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreat.
Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation.
If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.
For full show notes and more visit https://www.leanoutmethod.com/podcast
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Are you finding it tough to sell your high-ticket offers? Let’s simplify the process together!

In this episode, I sit down with business and sales strategist Jeannie Spiro to explore effective strategies for women entrepreneurs aiming to boost their revenue. Jeannie shares her journey of mastering copywriting and building a strong relationship with her list, which skyrocketed her business success. We discuss the evolving tactics in email marketing, live events, short sales pages, PDFs, and the value of speaking as a powerful tool to attract high-ticket clients.

We also look closer at the common pitfalls of selling high-ticket offers, and emphasize the importance of validating products and avoiding assumptions. Jeannie highlights the significance of personal connections and client nurturing over massive launches and explains her simple yet efficient approach to prioritize tasks through effective delegation. We examine current trends of more in-person gatherings and changing buying habits, suggesting a balance between using technology and having personal interactions.
In this episode, we explore:
Effective marketing tools beyond complicated funnels
The importance of live events and workshops
How to nurture relationships with potential clients
Strategies for 1-to-1 selling through discovery calls
The shift back to in-person events for higher success
 
“Selling high-ticket offers isn’t about complicated funnels—it’s about personal connections and genuine conversations.” -  Jeannie Spiro
 
Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business?
We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale
Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreathttps://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreat.
Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation.
If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.
For full show notes and more visit https://www.leanoutmethod.com/podcast
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

I love asking my guests the question, "How do you work smarter, not harder, and keep things lean in your business?" And I always love their responses!

In this special episode, we have rounded up all the answers my guests have given to this answer so far this year. 

Even though a lot of the answers tend to be in the same categories, everyone has a different approach to keeping things efficient and lean. In fact, some guests really surprise me with their answers and I always find myself learning something new from these conversations. And I know for a lot of you that it's one of your favorite parts of the interviews as well!
I hope this compilation inspires you to make some changes in your business and how you structure your work so that you can get more time back, get things done more efficiently, and have more space for the things that you absolutely love. 
Below is a listing of the guests that are featured in this roundup. If you're looking for some great value-packed things to listen to over the holiday week, catch up on past episodes with these guests that cover:

Lisa Jones & Lindsay Hammond, talk about improving relationship dynamics in EP158 Jessica Sato, shares how to create change and impact in EP160 Karen Fagan, shares her expertise on using videos for more visibility in EP162 Michelle Glogovac, shares how to leverage podcast guesting for growth in EP164 Dom Farnan, blends mindfulness with business as she talks about conscious leadership in EP166 Marcia Riner, shares how to boost your profitability in EP168 Abby Herman, offers ways to lean out your content strategy in EP170 Jennifer Tamborski, shares strategies for hitting the million-dollar mark in EP172 Justine Beauregard, shares how to craft high-converting messaging in EP174 Anna Felix, shares how to grow your money smartly, safely, and significantly in EP176 Jennifer Fry, discusses how becoming a disruptor can increase your sales in EP178 Gwen Bortner, highlights operational mistakes that impact growth in EP180 Amy Collette, shares how writing a book can unleash your impact in EP182  
Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business?
We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale
Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at  https://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreat.
Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation.
If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.
For full show notes and more visit https://www.leanoutmethod.com/podcast
 
 
 
 
 
 

Why do you think sharing personal experiences can be so impactful for both the writer and the reader?

What are some strategies authors can use to make their book content timeless and continually engaging?
In this inspiring episode I sit down with the incredible Amy Collette, a writing coach, Author, Speaker, and a crystal-clear voice for intentional change. She inspires audiences to make the kind of impact they desire by teaching them how to deeply connect through the power of story. Together, we dive deep into the significance of storytelling, highlighting its power to connect and resonate with others.
Amy emphasizes the importance of clarity and structure in the book-writing process and shares practical advice on creating outlines and understanding one's audience. Our conversation also sheds light on the myth of the instant success of a book and stresses the importance of continual engagement and promotion.
We dive into how to turn your book idea or already published book into a successful, impactful, and lasting piece of work, including:
- The key elements of writing a successful book
- How to keep your book in the spotlight long after it publishes
- Using various platforms to boost visibility
- Facing and overcoming fear and self-doubt
- Practical steps to start or finish writing your book today
Thinking about writing a book or already in the process? Tune into this episode for invaluable insights and practical advice from Amy Collette. Learn how to overcome your fear, gain clarity, and unleash your impact. Discover how to keep your book relevant and engage your audience effectively. Don’t miss out—your powerful story is waiting to make a difference!
“Whether you're telling a story or whether you're listening to a story, you're having a shared experience.”
-         Amy Collette
 
Links:
Website: https://unleashyourinnerauthor.com
Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/positivelypoweredauthors
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amycollette/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unleashyourinnerauthor/
Free resource:
Make a Ripple Guidebook: https://unleashyourimpact.systeme.io/fc0ff271
 
 
Ready to simplify and streamline how you scale your business?
We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale
Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreathttps://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreat.
Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation.
If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.
For full show notes and more visit https://www.leanoutmethod.com/podcast
 
 
 

Did you grow up or start your career being rewarded or recognized for a being a hard worker?

Most entrepreneurs have.

It's that drive, determination, and willingness to do the hard things that enabled us to turn our passion, idea, or opportunity into a business. But what if it's the same thing that's causing us to overwork, burn ourselves out, or slow down our results?

When we've consistently seen results from our hard work, especially when it's come from working harder than others around us, we can tie our identity to being a hard worker and develop unconscious beliefs that the only way to see results is to work harder or do more.

Have you ever freed up time in your week only to immediately fill it in with more work? Or have you ever been on vacation or out with family and felt that pull to check in on things or do work even when you really had nothing urgent that needed to be done? 

That's a sign it may be time to dig into your beliefs about what it takes to be and remain successful. Not the surface level beliefs where you consciously know that success doesn't only come from working harder…But the deep rooted unconscious ones that formed early in our lives and still influence our actions today.

In this week's episode, I dive into breaking free from the “work harder” mindset and share my own personal evolution with this. If you caught the story I recently shared about mining for Herkimer diamonds, I take you into the full story in this episode and what it taught me about not always having to work harder and do more. I also share:
How to break free from the "hard worker" mindset Understanding what's needed in different seasons of work & life Practical tips for working smarter instead of harder Strategies that help you reclaim your time
Just because you’re a hard worker doesn’t mean you have to work hard.

Let me say that again, because it's important… Just because you’re a hard worker doesn’t mean you have to work hard. You can be strategic, work smarter, and achieve amazing results.

One of the best ways to work smarter not harder is to learn how to strategically use AI to simplify and scale your business. My new Simplify and Scale with AI program is designed to help you do exactly that, vinf out more at strategicopsinstitute.com/scalewithai
We are now accepting Visionary CEOs and their right-hand Ops Leads into our signature Simplify to Scale mentorship program. Learn more and join us at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/scale
Join us for our transformational in-person business retreats and masterminds each Spring and Fall at https://www.leanoutmethod.com/retreat.
Have questions? Want to explore partnering together to scale your business? Connect with me on my personal Instagram @cristagrasso or LinkedIn and let’s start a conversation.
If you loved this episode, please help us spread the word and reach more business owners like you by leaving a 5-star rating and review. Hit subscribe to be the first to listen to new episodes each Tuesday.
For full show notes and more visit https://www.leanoutmethod.com/podcast