Booked Out and Burned Out (But Not About to Burn It All Down)
You’d think being great at what you do would make business easier. But the better you get, the more the cracks show. The clients, systems, and strategy that used to work? Now they feel too small. You’ve outgrown the business you built. So you tweak, tinker, and try to make it fit again but the friction keeps coming back, because you’re not meant to patch it, you’re meant to rebuild it. Topics discussed in this episode include: The “season of stuck” and why it’s a normal sign of growth. Why patching symptoms (tweaks, tweaks, tweaks) never fixes the real problem. How shifting clients, markets, and standards creates hidden misalignment. The three areas that actually need your attention. Why pausing is strategic and not optional. For detailed show notes and links to everything in this episode, please visit bsfreebusiness.com. If you enjoyed today's episode, please:. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/stayingsolo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Sign up for email updates at www.bsfreebusiness.com/solo
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14:51
The Must-Have AI Conversation That Builds (or Breaks) Trust
If you’re not talking about AI with your clients, you’re already losing their trust. In this episode, I break down why silence is a risk and how to lead the AI conversation without sounding defensive, desperate, or out of touch. Topics discussed in this episode include: Why client skepticism is rising and how AI is amplifying it. The hidden trust gap created when you stay silent about AI. What clients are really thinking (but not asking) about your use of AI.. The three pillars of the AI conversation and how to discuss AI without sounding outdated or opportunistic. How to define your own AI stance before speaking to clients. For detailed show notes and links to everything in this episode, please visit bsfreebusiness.com. If you enjoyed today's episode, please:. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/stayingsolo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Sign up for email updates at www.bsfreebusiness.com/solo
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9:44
The Cult of the Web Celeb
**This week we're sharing an episode from the most recent season of Duped.** Ever been captivated by a coach who seemed too good to be true—magnetic, inspiring, and totally authentic—only to find yourself questioning how you ended up spending thousands, still feeling like you're not enough? You're not the only one. In this episode, we’re diving into the darker side of online business, exploring how some leaders use cult-like tactics to build trust, manipulate your decisions, and keep you hooked. Topics discussed in this episode: How web celebs earn your trust and devotion through “authenticity.” How they maintain control once you’re inside the program The BITE Model of Authoritarian Control How to protect yourself from being swept up in the cult of personality. For detailed show notes and links to everything mentioned in this episode, please visit duped.online. For more Duped, including monthly bonus episodes, join the Patreon.
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39:26
Fit Check: Is This the Right Mastermind for You?
Most masterminds? Total garbage. They’re hype machines, overpriced courses in disguise, or giant groups where you’re stuck babysitting beginners. That’s why in this episode I’m doing a fit check—so you’ll know if the BS-Free Mastermind is your “hell yes” next step, or a “not right now.” Either way, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what support you need to build a steady, sustainable business. Topics discussed in this episode include: Why most masterminds are hype, chaos, or overpriced group programs that don’t deliver. What makes the BS-Free Mastermind different (and who it’s really for). The Revenue Reset: a fast way to earn more without working more. How the Staying Solo Framework (Salary, Strategy, Space) helps you build sustainably. Real stories from members who raised rates, set boundaries, and simplified their businesses. What kind of support you actually need to create a steady, profitable business in 2025 and beyond For detailed show notes and links to everything in this episode, please visit bsfreebusiness.com. If you enjoyed today's episode, please:. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/stayingsolo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Sign up for email updates at www.bsfreebusiness.com/solo
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11:41
Create More Options (Rant Incoming...)
**A very special ranty episode inspired by conversations I've been having the past month** When business feels uncertain, it’s tempting to pause and wait it out. But options don’t come from waiting—they come from making decisions, even imperfect ones. In this episode, I share: The problem with pausing for too long. Why you want to avoid celeb entrepreneurs right now Specific things you may need to reset Remember, your business isn’t fragile; it can handle change, but you need to be willing to get into action. And if you want support making the right moves, in the right order, that’s exactly what we do in the BS-Free Service Business Mastermind. We start in October with the Revenue Reset, allowing you to move forward with clear decisions and the right priorities in front of you. ☎️ Book a call and we’ll figure out if the mastermind is what you need right now.
Growing a solo service business is tough. It’s even harder when you’re bombarded with BS advice that steers you away from your values and why you started your business in the first place.
This is the podcast for solo creatives and consultants who want to remain as a team of one and have zero interest in the hustle and grind of typical business teachings.
Most podcasts for solopreneurs and freelancers, hosted by out-of-touch celebrity entrepreneurs who haven't offered one-to-one services in years, miss the mark on today's market realities.
Maggie Patterson, a service business owner for 20 years, understands that to stay solo, you need to know what matters to you, what works for you, and what you should completely ignore.
In each episode, she examines one piece of conventional business advice to discover how it may hurt your business or be completely wrong for you as a solo business owner.
Join Maggie for real talk to help you avoid burnout or the desire to entirely burn down your business to open a flower shop, book store, or cat cafe. (Because those cats won’t pay the bills.)
(Formerly the BS-Free Service Business Show)
Ireland