In this solo recap episode, Ashlan and Tory reflect on their conversation with Marina Martinez-Bateman and unpack the realities of consulting, nonprofit work, professionalism, and building a business rooted in alignment rather than performative success.

They discuss the disconnect between strategy and actual impact, how entrepreneurs can create businesses that reflect who they truly are, and why working with aligned clients matters more than trying to serve everyone. The conversation also touches on retention over constant growth, navigating difficult clients, overthinking communication, and the freedom that entrepreneurship offers to design a life and business that feels authentic.

This episode is an honest, thoughtful conversation about values-based business, sustainable growth, and finding the people who truly fit your work.

Key Takeaways

• Not all consulting is created equal, and poor consulting can create real harm for organizations.
• Nonprofits and small businesses deserve strategy partners who understand their unique realities and constraints.
• “Professionalism” is often subjective and rooted in outdated expectations.
• Your authentic self can actually become a strength and filter for attracting aligned clients.
• You do not need to work with everyone to build a successful business.
• Retention and caring for existing clients are often more valuable than constantly chasing new business.
• Word-of-mouth referrals from aligned clients create stronger long-term growth.
• Many entrepreneurs struggle with overthinking communication and follow-up.
• Entrepreneurship allows you to build a business around the life you actually want.

This episode references our conversation with Marina Martinez-Bateman, episode #135 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. You can catch our first episode with Marina #066.

Host information:

• Co-Host, Ashlan Glazier-Anderson, Owner of AshbeanPDX Marketing
• Co-Host, Victoria (Tory) Proppe, Owner of Imagine Marketing Strategies

Connect:

• On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TaketheLeap-Today 
• On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taketheleap_today 
• With Ashlan:
  • https://www.instagram.com/ashbeanpdxmktg 
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlan-glazier-anderson 
• With Tory:
  • https://www.instagram.com/imaginemarketingstrategies 
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriaproppe 

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