“When you get clear that profit is powerful for you — and when you allocate and can see where it goes — that is very, very often a massive driver to increasing your revenue and your business success.”- Shelagh CumminsIf you’re a regular listener of the Road to Seven, chances are you’ve already set a revenue goal for your business this year — but do you have a solid plan for your profit?Every smart entrepreneur knows the importance of having a revenue goal. Once you’ve settled on a number, you can calculate how many programs, products, or services you need to sell on a weekly, monthly, or quarterly basis to hit that goal. A strategic revenue goal should be high enough to cover your operational expenses, salary, payroll, and taxes… and leave enough for profit.While profit is one of the most exciting parts of entrepreneurship, I see many business owners freeze up when it comes to figuring out what to do with it! Profit is POWERFUL — it can be a massive driver to increasing your revenue and your overall business success. It can raise your confidence and lead to new opportunities.But you need to know how to allocate it.If you want to be strategic in growing your business, you can’t just keep all of the profit for yourself. This episode reveals multiple ways to handle your profit — and get it to really start working for you and your business!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How to create positive impact in your community through your profits What the power of profit can do for your business success and your mindsetHow one business owner turned $40,000 into $140,000 overnight  Highlights:‌ ‌01:07  Intro02:23  What profit looks like03:59  What to do with profit04:44  Establishing bonuses06:11  Donating to causes07:38  Investing in other businesses10:21  Holding onto profit11:41  The power of profit ‌Links:‌ ‌  To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com    ‌Stay Connected  Like what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!   You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.  I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins  

Road to Seven

Planning Your POWERFUL Profit in 2022

“By 2030, there is an expectation of $8.5 trillion revenue loss in global economies because of talent shortage.” -Anu BidaniAre your kids armed with the skills they need to thrive in a future workforce?My guest Anu Bidani is passionate about empowering the next generation through instilling a love of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.During her 20 years at Scotiabank, she worked with brilliant tech-minded interns, but realized that these sought-after skills were not the norm when it came to the younger generation — including her own children.In 2015, she left finance and devoted herself to fixing this disconnect, founding STEM MINDS and Inno-Hive, companies with the mission to make 21st century skill-building accessible and enjoyable!While there are initiatives supporting STEM learning in University settings, they aren’t aimed at the right group. “The problem does not lie in adulthood. It lies in childhood,” Anu says. “If you don’t expose your children at the right age with the right skills and opportunities, they will never make those choices when they’re in high school.”With the goal of motivating her own children to embrace STEM learning, Anu went all-in — and achieved incredible success by bringing her inspirational vision to life!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌The mindset that allows Anu to work through her fear and make bold, brave shifts The biggest challenges she faced in getting loans, securing a lease, and launchingHow she dealt with the risk of hiring staff BEFORE earning any revenue!Anu Bidani is the founder and CEO of STEM MINDS, a social enterprise that empowers youth to develop a love of learning through STEM, and Inno-Hive, an innovative learning community.  Highlights:‌ ‌00:01  Intro02:00  Meet Anu Bidani03:17  Anu’s journey07:51  Mindset & fear09:33  First iteration12:33  Biggest challenges17:35  Not giving up21:59  Hiring & investing26:43  What she knows now28:34  Validating ideas30:12  What’s next? ‌Links:‌Anu Bidanihttps://www.stemminds.cominfo@stemminds.comhttps://www.facebook.com/stemmindshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anubidaniTwitter: @stem_minds To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!You can join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be grateful if you left a review on iTunes! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d love to hear your favourite part of this episode in the comments below!Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

Why Teaching Kids STEM is More Important Than Ever Before with Anu Bidani

“Coaching isn’t just signing up to work with someone and then not doing any of the work. Coaching is getting the insight into yourself that you need to be able to take courageous action.”- Shelagh CumminsWhy is it so hard to achieve the business goals you set in January?The answer is a little complicated, but it involves two parts mindset, two parts measurement, and one part momentum!So often, entrepreneurs start the year full of lofty goals… only to run out of steam halfway through with little to show for their efforts.  I don’t want you to give up on your 2022 goals. I absolutely believe that you can achieve them — you just have to be a little strategic! In this week’s episode of the Road to Seven, I share 5 crucial strategies and tactics that every entrepreneur needs to implement in order to successfully bring their goals to reality.Imagine the impact on your business and your life if you were to hit every single goal that you set for this new year, from revenue to lead gen to work/life balance…It’s all within your reach — listen now and remember to subscribe!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How to gain clarity around your goals and intentions — and figure out exactly what success would look likeWhat effective coaching looks like (and why even other coaches benefit from it)How to turn knowledge and insight into courageous action that really pushes the needle in your business   Highlights:‌ ‌01:15  Intro02:29  Believe that it’s possible04:44  Gain clarity06:16  Make it measurable!07:09  Benefit from coaching09:06  Put your knowledge into action11:14  Be accountable13:39  Recap14:41  Work with the Road to Seven! ‌Links:‌To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com Stay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!   You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.  I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

5 Surefire Strategies to Achieve Your Goals This Year

“I don’t have to micro-niche. I just have to be able to explain what I do and who it serves…. It’s the way that I work with them that is my niche.”- Claudia AronowitzPersonal development and relationship coach Claudia Aronowitz never aspired to be an entrepreneur. She earned her coaching certification in order to help others, but soon found that she needed to learn how to become a business owner as well.The journey wasn’t easy — but Claudia learned many valuable lessons along the way!“People come out of coaching school and don’t understand that being an entrepreneur means that you have to start at the beginning with you doing all of it, and later on hopefully getting other people to do the parts that you really are not so good at,” Claudia says. “What made the biggest difference was starting to see the results that I gave.”In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How Claudia develops aligned programming that attracts her ideal customers and fits her niche — without limiting her scopeHow she broke through her analysis paralysis and need for perfection so that she could take real actionThe #1 mindset shift that Claudia made — and how it helped her make peace with hearing “No”About Claudia Aronowitz: Claudia Aronowitz is a personal development and relationship coach who will help you clarify your path, connect with yourself, and create harmonious relationships. Compassionate and insightful, Claudia is a straightforward communicator with the ability to clarify complex situations, and help her clients gain new perspectives and improve their communication skills to better connect with the people who matter most.  Highlights:‌ ‌00:01  Intro02:11  Meet Claudia Aronowitz04:25  Creating programming06:00  Becoming an entrepreneur07:54  Breaking through analysis paralysis09:05  Dealing with No11:32  Service rollercoaster14:06  Being & stopping15:51  Momentum calendar16:21  Validation & inside work18:39  What she knows now20:34 What’s next?Links:‌Claudia Aronowitzhttps://claudiaaro.com To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com Stay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins  

Finding Your Path

“We come up with a million and one reasons of why things are impossible… all of these reasons that literally are not rooted in fact. They’re all story that you’re using and leveraging to keep yourself safe.”- Shelagh CumminsMany women entrepreneurs have difficulty articulating what it is they really want — and even struggle with questions such as “What is your goal for 2022?”And there are a multitude of reasons for this.Some of them feel that their goals aren’t possible. Some of them feel that they’re not worthy or deserving of reaching them. Some of them don’t think that anyone would pay for their services if they raised their pricing. Some of them feel that they’re not ready to reach that next stage in their business — even though it’s what they’ve been dreaming about. Even if these reasons aren’t rooted in fact, these stories still prevent many women from taking steps toward reaching their goals — or even saying them aloud!Why do we tell ourselves these stories? To keep ourselves safe.But when we internalize these stories, we chip away at the possibility mindset that helps us step out of our comfort zones and grow our businesses!In the episode, I’m going to help you push back against these limiting stories through playing a little game of What If. No one will hear your answers but you, so there’s no pressure... and no reason not to be completely honest!Let’s get started!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How to fully step into a possibility mindsetThe two numbers that you should calculate when figuring out your pricingHow to set bridge goals that are fully aligned with your overarching goals — AND feel achievableHighlights:‌ ‌01:08  Why is this question so challenging? 01:59  Possibility mindset03:23  What if you could charge what you’re worth?04:38  What if we removed the disbelief?06:17  Bridge goals07:08  When to play What If?08:40  2 big questions ‌Links:‌ ‌  To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com    ‌Stay Connected  Like what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!   You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.  I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins 

5 Ways to Ensure Success in 2022

“It’s not about you. It’s about the impact and ripple effect of your work on the people whose problems you solve.”- Shelagh CumminsIf you’re planning on hitting it out of the ballpark in 2022 when it comes to reaching your revenue goals and scaling your business, then you’ll want to press play!Because in this episode, I dig into the nitty-gritty that no one else talks about — the five things that you absolutely must do in your business in order to blow 2022 out of the water (or any other year, for that matter)!This is the same tried-and-tested process that we use to help clients in each of our programs zero in on their goals and create strategic action plans.Creating an intentional, informed, and strategic path to achieving your goals will remove reactivity and uncertainty from the process, keep you from falling victim to shiny-object syndrome, and ensure that you remain aligned with your purpose and values.In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How to clarify and solidify your goals for the next year — and then work backwards to uncover those non-negotiable projects and milestones that will help you reach themHow to create a 12-month timeline with clear goals for each quarter that will guide you to where you want to be by the end of the yearWhy you should be scheduling “be time” on your daily calendar — even if it’s just 15 minutes at a time  Highlights:‌ ‌00:01  Intro01:37  Listener shout-out02:38  Find clarity on your goals03:51  Work backwards from the outcomes  04:54  Stay aligned with your purpose & passion06:19  Create space to “be”07:56  Deepen your integrity with your value09:51  Believe in yourself12:16  Recap ‌Links:‌ ‌  To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com    ‌Stay Connected  Like what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!   You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.  I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

From Survive to Thrive

“Nothing is going to be perfect… You’re always going to be learning and adapting and growing. Just go for it and just do it!”- Kate PeplerKate Pepler turned her passions for ocean sustainability, environmental education, waste reduction, and community into one eco-friendly and thriving business venture!A Toronto native who moved to Halifax, Kate found it difficult to reduce the amount of waste in her life in her new city. This discovery combined with concern over the health of the planet inspired her to create The Tare Shop, a package-free bulk store and cafe.Kate is so community-focused that she began building hers before The Tare Shop’s first location even opened, using the brand’s Instagram to share the construction process and gather market research from its followers. Now, The Tare Shop’s customers determine its inventory, as Kate uses their feedback to plan her purchasing!In this conversation, we discuss Kate’s funding, first hires, biggest lessons, and how she handled the Covid shift.In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌How Kate dealt with the overwhelm of The Tare Shop’s immediate success (while still working full-time at her former job)!What she learned from opening her first location — and what she did differently the second time aroundHow she created buzz for The Tare Shop through speaking engagementsAbout Kate Pepler: Kate Pepler is the founder and owner of The Tare Shop, a package-free bulk store and coffee shop with two locations in Nova Scotia, which she established in 2018. She graduated from Dalhousie University with a BA in sustainability, environmental science, and a minor in marine biology.Highlights:‌ ‌00:01  Intro02:39  Meet Kate Pepler04:26  Launching The Tare Shop05:54  Funding 09:31  Dealing with overwhelm11:28  First hires13:43  Creating buzz16:23  Opening a second shop17:51  Covid shift20:55  Biggest lessons22:34  What she knows now23:05  What’s next?Links:‌Kate Peplerhttps://thetareshop.comhttps://www.facebook.com/thetareshopTwitter: @katepeplerInstagram: @thetareshopTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

Purpose Driven Brick and Mortar Business Growth with Kate Pepler

“I realized that I didn’t want to be the only person in my business. I recognized that I wanted my company to be bigger than me.”- Rachel DiMartinoSolopreneurship can only take you so far. So, how do you build out your unique talent into a successful and profitable agency?Rachel DiMartino is the founder of Geek Unicorn, a women-led company that helps other female entrepreneurs create more impact and show up more professionally online. In this episode, you’ll learn how Rachel grew her brand from a one-woman shop into a thriving agency that creates real, lasting transformations for their clients — from adopting an inclusive, equity-promoting hiring strategy to overcoming mindset issues!I absolutely loved talking to Rachel about the strategies she used to scale her business and earn the loyalty of her audience. Tune in now for her fabulously geeky insights! In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How Rachel leveraged online entrepreneurs’ groups and became their go-to web consultantThe mindset challenges that Rachel faced when moving into an agency modelWhat sets Rachel’s hiring strategy apart — and why it’s so importantAbout Rachel DiMartino: Rachel DiMartino is the founder of Geek Unicorn, a women-led company in Canada on a mission to make other women-led businesses stand out online like a Unicorn in a field of horses by upleveling their brand, website, and online presence. When she&apos;s not creating magic for other women, you can find Rachel digging for fossils on the beach, chowing down on the best burgers for her burger blog, or snuggled up rewatching her favorite Star Trek episodes.Highlights:‌ ‌01:01  Intro01:59  Meet Rachel DiMartino03:53  Why Geek Unicorn?06:03  Rachel’s journey08:18  The first client09:07  Leveraging groups10:56  The first hire12:39  Why start Geek Unicorn?14:11  Bro culture & inequity gaps16:22  Biggest challenges19:26  Mindset21:18  Laundry story22:57  What she wishes she knew26:16  What’s next?Links:‌ ‌Rachel DiMartinohttps://geekunicorn.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/geek__unicornTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up. I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

Making Strategic Decisions To Grow Your Agency with Rachel DiMartino

“You don’t always see the impact of those shifts right away. Sometimes it takes time for changes to start generating the results that you want them to.”- Shelagh CumminsReaching $1 million in revenue is about much more than just boosting your sales. If building a seven-figure business is part of your vision, you need to be prepared to spend some time, energy, and money — as well as work on some ego and mindset issues.This episode of The Road to Seven reveals the approach that I took to help one of my clients completely transform her company. This client was looking to increase her sales, but was already at capacity in terms of the number of customers she was able to serve.Using a very intentional and strategic process designed to help the company scale effectively, I helped her increase her yearly revenue... from $300,000 to over $1 million!In order to smooth your path to seven figures, you’ll need to examine three key areas of infrastructure in your business and identify potential bottlenecks and strategic improvements.If you’d like to hear a step-by-step, real world example of how to build a $1 million business, then you’ll want to press play!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌The three areas of infrastructure you need to look at when determining what your company must do in order to scale effectively How to highlight the points in your process where you can replace yourself with a new hire or automation What to consider when determining your pricing — and why you need to revisit your strategy regularly Highlights:‌ ‌01:15  Intro02:23  Company background  03:11  Pricing for growth & bandwidth04:46  Process for delivering results06:19  Hire slow, fire fast 07:14  Stepping into leadership role  09:17  Create your rubric10:32  Case study: leverage points & pricing12:03  Case study: culture & marketing14:04  Results14:59  What does your business need?16:32  Reach out! Links:‌ ‌To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com    ‌Stay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

So, You Want To Build A 7 Figure Business?

“I’ve always been living an uncaged life. I just didn’t have the career part figured out.”- Rebecca TraceyRebecca Tracey, founder of The Uncaged Life, has built a career that allows her the freedom to live her own uncaged life. After sampling a number of short-term gigs, Rebecca trained as a nutritionist and life coach, but found that most of the work she did with her clients was around helping them create businesses and marketing strategies that were aligned with their values. So, she made the pivot to business coach.Now, she helps coaches and online business owners clarify their brand message and uplevel their offers, and has grown her Facebook group to over 14,000 entrepreneurs! (Yes, that is the correct number of zeros!).In this conversation, Rebecca reveals how The Uncaged Life (and its launching process) has evolved as the business has grown!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌How The Uncaged Life has evolved since its launch — and the business model that led it to thriveThe first revenue-generating hires that Rebecca madeThe biggest sales lessons and mindset shifts that have helped her hone her selling skillsAbout Rebecca Tracey: Rebecca Tracey is the founder of The Uncaged Life where she works with coaches and online business owners to get clear on their brand message, create packages that sell, and help them get and keep clients (all while working from home with no pants on — living the dream!).  Highlights:‌ ‌01:03  Intro01:57  Meet Rebecca Tracey04:39  Sunk cost fallacy & pivoting06:08  Owning your lane07:18  The Uncaged evolution09:14  The Uncaged journey12:03  Biggest challenges13:09  Hiring15:35  Sales lessons16:41  IG story & follow-ups18:34  Sell with integrity20:42  Evolution of launching27:22  The Uncaged Life28:55  What she wishes she knew30:12  What’s next?Links:‌Rebecca Traceyhttps://theuncagedlife.comhttps://www.facebook.com/TheUncagedLifeTwitter: @rebecca_traceyInstagram: @rebeccatraceyhttps://www.simonandschuster.ca/books/Shoe-Dog/Phil-Knight/9781501135927https://kendrickshope.comhttps://mariahcoz.comTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more Road to Seven episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

How To Develop Confidence As A New Business Owner

“Those entrepreneurs that are killing it year-over-year are not doing it by flying by the seat of their pants.”- Shelagh CumminsI’d like to address a question that I hear far too often from entrepreneurs just getting started on their Road to Seven — and even a few who are well on their way:“Do I *really* need a business plan?”The answer, of course, is yes!An effective business plan will not only give you clarity around your company and what it is that you’re growing, but will also provide a critical path to help you reach your goals — and identify when you’re drifting off-course.But it does bring up another question: what sort of business plan should you have?In this episode, I walk you through the two different types of business plans that every single business owner, no matter your industry or stage of growth, needs to have in place in order to grow and scale with greater ease!Whether or not you already have a plan, you’ll want to check out this episode to learn more about your different plan options — and how each will benefit your business and keep you moving forward with intention.Let’s get started!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌How to determine the fundamentals and positioning of your initial one-page business planHow to transform your business plan into a pitch deck that can be used to help you secure funding from investors or banksWhere to find guidance and resources for your annual strategic planning and plan creationHighlights:‌ ‌01:24  Intro02:20  Business plan types03:13  One-page business plan04:43  The fundamentals & positioning05:16  Solution, model & target market08:37  Annual strategic planning10:04  The basis of your process 11:14  Creating a pitch deck13:29  Research & due diligence14:13  Marketing, operations, finances & team17:12  Risks & executive summary18:18  Start with the one-page & reach out!Links:‌The Revenue Acceleratorhttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/the-revenue-acceleratorAnnual Strategic Planning workshopOne-page business plan templatehttps://www.theroadtoseven.com/businessplantemplate To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more Road to Seven episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

Essential Pieces Of Your Business Plan Explained

“I thought not only is this a potential business — this could change lives.”- Connie StaceyHave you ever come up with a new product idea… but had no idea how to transform it into reality? You’ll want to listen to this episode!Connie Stacey is the founder and president of Growing Greener Innovations (GGI), an award-winning clean energy solutions company that designs smart batteries and energy storage solutions. She started GGI with a vision: a silent generator that created zero fumes or carbon emissions.Not only did Connie invent a new product — she invented something that may change the world.Through her research, Connie realized that a green battery solution could go a long way toward solving the world’s energy poverty crisis. “This could give an opportunity for people in other parts of the world to achieve better equity,” she says. “When you look at access to energy, it is perfectly correlated with economic growth.... If you want to end poverty, you must end energy poverty.”Listen now to hear Connie’s fascinating story of how she turned an idea into a world-changing reality.In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How Connie took the leap from being on mat leave to becoming an inventor and founderThe obstacles Connie faced when seeking funding and how she overcame themThe unorthodox choice Connie made in terms of manufacturing — and how it paid offAbout Connie Stacey: Connie Stacey is the founder and president of Growing Greener Innovations, Inc. She has over 20 years of experience in the IT/computer programming sectors.Highlights:‌ ‌01:04  Intro02:53  Meet Connie Stacey04:00  Spark of inspiration08:24  From mat leave to founder10:41  Creating the prototype12:21  3 principles & approach15:43  Mistakes entrepreneurs make16:23  Funding & manufacturing22:58  Awards & start-up support28:14  Roadblocks30:42  What she wishes she knew34:00  What’s next?Links:‌Connie Staceyhttps://grengine.comhttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/growing-greener-innovationsInstagram: @growinggreenerinnovationsTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

Investment Strategies For Indie Tech Startups With MASSIVE Impact

“There’s a very fine line for me between work and not-work… I literally just went downhill and slipped into burnout.”- Shelagh CumminsYou’ve heard of writer’s block. But have you ever experienced a block when trying to achieve a goal in your business?If you’ve ever tried to work toward a goal in your business, big or small, but just couldn’t seem to make it happen.... then you’ll want to listen to this episode of The Road to Seven!If you’re experiencing a block, you may find yourself unable to move forward in your business for days, weeks, or even months. You can think of it as losing your mojo.Blocks can pop up during times of burnout or near-burnout, when you’ve been pushing yourself too hard or not taking enough time to relax and reflect. I experienced my own burnout shortly after the pandemic hit, when I doubled my services in order to hold onto my clients and provide them with much-needed support. But even after slowing back down, closing some programs, and making space, I found that I was still unable to step back into the mindset I needed to have in order to make moves in my business.In other words, I still hadn’t regained my mojo.Listen now to find out how I healed my burnout, got over my block, and wound up creating my biggest offer ever!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌How the pandemic’s economic effects on my family pushed me into a level of work that was not sustainable  How I got back in alignment with myself and my deeper needs, in order to push through my block Why silence is your secret weapon for reconnecting with your inner selfHighlights:‌ ‌00:01  Intro01:21  Momentum program02:06  My own block story04:50  How I gave myself space06:07  Why I doubled my services07:15  How slowing down helped08:17  Slowing down even more10:36  Power of silence & coaching11:39  Invest energy in rest13:52  Authenticity14:46  What my block was15:56  Take care of yourselfLinks:‌ ‌  To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com    ‌Stay Connected  Like what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!   You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.  I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

You Need To Take A Break

“When it comes to your business, your cash flow is Queen.”- Shelagh CumminsI have a question for you: do you know how to price your goods and services so that you’re in a position to scale your company effectively?If you said no, don’t worry. You aren’t alone! Many entrepreneurs struggle when it comes to figuring out how to best price their offers — especially during the start-up stage. But ensuring that you have adequate cash flow is absolutely crucial to being able to grow and scale your business!A company that lacks cash flow is going to find themselves in big trouble, sooner rather than later!If you’re seeking the recipe for entrepreneurial success, you’re going to need three major ingredients: time, energy, and money.This episode of The Road to Seven is all about ensuring that you have plenty of that final ingredient!Tune in to learn about variable v. fixed costs, contribution margins, sunk costs, and leverage points — what they are and what they mean for your business!In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ ‌The differences between micro pricing and macro pricing — and what to keep in mind when determining your costsWhy package creation is so vital to moving along the path to growthHow your money mindset influences your approach to pricing  Highlights:‌ ‌00:01  Intro01:22  Why I love pricing01:50  Micro v macro pricing03:44  Package creation + money mindset04:49  Variable v. fixed costs06:40  Contribution margins08:20  Sunk costs & leverage points09:30  Working with your profits10:48  Your minimum rate12:28  Reach out! ‌Links:‌ ‌To work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.com    ‌Stay Connected  Like what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it!   You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.  I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!  Follow me!  Instagram: @shelaghcummins  Twitter: @shelaghcummins  https://facebook.com/ShelaghCummins  https://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins  

Micro v. Macro Pricing

“I’m kind of a go-set-ready kind of person, like let’s just do this thing and see what happens!”- Abbey AshleyWhat would happen if you let go of your self-doubt and built your business fearlessly?We can look to Abbey Ashley as a perfect example!Abbey started her own virtual assistant hustle in 2015 with zero business training, and doubled the salary she’d been earning from her full-time corporate job within just 30 days ...while working only 20 hours per week!She launched The Virtual Savvy, a business that helps aspiring VAs launch and grow their own at-home business from scratch. The Virtual Savvy now earns Abbey multiple-7-figures a year, allowing her to support her family while doing work that she loves!Abbey is brilliant when it comes to outside-the-box networking. Listen now to learn her unique strategies for building a fulfilling and successful online business! She helps aspiring small business owners launch and grow their VA businesses and experience new freedom and flexibility.In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode of the Road to Seven podcast,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌The genius tactic Abbey used to spark an amazing business relationship with her favourite influencerHow to set pricing that takes into account all of your expenses, including payrollHow Abbey successfully made the shift to selling online coursesHighlights:‌01:11  Meet Abbey Ashley04:57  Abbey’s background06:25  Innovative proposal story09:47  Finding ideal clients12:22  Working with a team19:18  Lead generation23:35  Challenges25:35  What she wishes she knew27:58  What’s next?Links:‌Abbey Ashleyhttps://www.thevirtualsavvy.comhttps://www.facebook.com/TheVirtualSavvyInstagram: @thevirtualsavvyTo work with me and make your next power move, visit:https://shelaghcummins.comStay ConnectedLike what you’re hearing? Click here to subscribe in iTunes for more episodes to boost your Road to Seven today! I have more episodes with great tips and conversations with women that are revolutionizing the way we do business - don’t miss it! You can also join the Road To Seven Facebook group to meet other like-minded entrepreneurs who want to band together and help each other rise up.I would be really grateful if you left a review on iTunes so that others can find and boost their business too! Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.” I’d also love to hear what your favourite part of this episode is in the comments below. Thank you!Follow me!Instagram: @shelaghcumminsTwitter: @shelaghcumminshttps://facebook.com/ShelaghCumminshttps://linkedin.com/in/shelaghcummins

Plan To Scale with Abbey Ashley

Hosted by Shelagh Cummins, the Road to Seven podcast guides and supports entrepreneurs on their road to seven figures and beyond. Featuring interviews with inspirational women entrepreneurs who have created their own seven-figure businesses. To learn more visit shelaghcummins.com.

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Road to Seven

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