Anchored Leadership: For Business Owners Ready to Lead and Not Just Manage

Transitioning into a leadership position presents many challenges with both mindset and strategy. It is especially challenging for those who tend to “do it all” in their businesses or who are natural people pleasers. In this episode, Kari Lotzien discusses the common fears associated with stepping into leadership roles and offers practical advice for small business owners on how to build sustainable and scalable businesses by stepping into true leadership. Highlights include insights into the Anchored Leadership Academy and personal anecdotes that underline the importance of transitioning from a solopreneur to a leader.

Topics Covered:

• Identifying and overcoming fears in leadership
• Insights into the Anchored Leadership Academy
• Moving toward confidence as a leader
• Personal journey from solopreneur to leader
• The importance of making decisions and learning from the data
• Transitioning from doing to leading
• Leave a legacy in your community

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien
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In this episode, Kari explores the pivotal role of automation in small businesses. Drawing inspiration from a conversation with her grandmother, Kari delves into how technological advancements, particularly automation, can dramatically enhance operational efficiency and scalability in small businesses.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Impact of Automation: How automation saves time and allows business owners to focus on core activities.
2. Mindset Shifts Required for Automation: Overcoming the notion that automation is impersonal, expensive and only for larger businesses.
3. Practical Automation Tools: Detailed discussion on essential tools like CRMs, email marketing platforms, scheduling software, and project management systems.
4. Real-Life Examples: Kari shares her personal journey and the transformations she witnessed by integrating automation tools in her business practices.

Episode Highlights:

• Grandma Lacey's Story: Inspiration drawn from her longevity and adaptation to technological changes.
• Automation Benefits: Focused on how automation has helped Kari reclaim time and enhance her business operations.
• Tool Recommendations: Insights into specific tools and software that can streamline various business processes.

Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

Anchored Leadership Academy

Flodesk Email Marketing Software - Code for 50% off your first year.
ePlatform - scheduling, CRM, virtual receptionist - Mention this podcast 

Kajabi- online course plaform
Asana - www.asana.com

Calendly - www.calendly.com

*Some of the above links are from affiliation programs. I have personal experience with all of these programs and can attest to the benefits of every single one. 

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

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In this episode of Be The Anchor, I am welcoming Katie Dooley, founder of Paper Lime Creative, a design and branding agency based in Edmonton, Alberta. Katie shares her journey from designing her first brochure at age 11 to founding her own agency and becoming a sought-after brand strategist. The discussion delves into the pitfalls of DIY design, the importance of branding as a business tool, and why a logo should not be so literal.  Katie also offers insights into how businesses can differentiate themselves in a competitive market and avoid common branding mistakes. Katie also shares a valuable gift with the audience for a free 30-minute brand assessment.

Key Points covered in this episode : 

• Katie's Early Passion for Design
• Understanding Modern Branding
• The Pitfalls of DIY Design
• The Importance of Unique Branding - don’t be confused for your competition
• Common Branding Mistakes
• Literal vs. Conceptual Branding
• Targeting the Right Audience
• Luxury Branding Misconceptions
• The Role of Branding in Business Success
• Branding as a Business Tool
• Free Brand Assessment Offer

Connect with Katie Dooley: 

• Instagram
• LinkedIn  
• Website: www.paperlime.ca
• Free Brand Assessment  - add Be the Anchor to the form to let Katie know you heard her here

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• LinkedIn: Kari Lotzien

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we are tackling the challenging issue of declining revenue and sales. Drawing from real-life experiences and observing the recent closure of major Canadian retailers, I am sharing actionable strategies for small business owners. 

Key points include understanding your financials, engaging with your team and customers, analyzing shifts in buyer behavior, and optimizing existing products rather than jumping to new ones. When times are tough, the importance of community support, timely feedback, and proactive measures are integral to getting through i

00:29 When Revenue is Down

02:04 Lessons from a Favorite Company

03:10 Understanding Your Financials

04:40 Common Reactions to Revenue Decline

06:52 Analyzing Buyer Behavior

17:34 Learning from Successful Companies

21:13 Summary and Final Thoughts

Join the Newsletter Community 

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, I am sharing the top five hiring mistakes that small business owners often make and how to avoid them. I am drawing from years of coaching with small business owners as well as my own personal mistakes.  The consequences of these mistakes can cost business owners both money and valuable time.  We discuss the consequences of delaying hiring, attempting to clone oneself, not defining the needed role clearly, creating vague job positions (slumgullion), neglecting to check references, and compromising on hiring standards. Additionally, I share tips on making the hiring process more effective. If you loved this episode, join me for an upcoming workshop on February 19th for recruiting and hiring, offering both direct guidance and group coaching options. 

00:00 Introduction: The Biggest Mistake in Hiring

01:17 The Consequences of Delaying Hiring

04:32 Creating a Sustainable Hiring Plan

05:28 Avoiding the Clone Trap

07:35 Defining Your Needs Clearly

10:00 Upcoming Workshop Announcement

11:02 The Importance of Checking References

16:27 Don't Compromise on Hiring

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REGISTER for Hiring and Recruiting Workshop

• Hiring and Recruiting - Workshop ONLY
• Hiring and Recruiting - Workshop PLUS 2 coaching sessions

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

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The routine of setting New Year goals and resolutions often ends in disappointment. Initially, I described 2024 as the year of disappointment. After spending time really digging into why I felt that way, I came up with some real reasons behind the common struggles in achieving goals, the necessity of re-evaluating our goals, and the impact of internal and external factors on our success. 

In this episode, I am talking about optimization. Dialling in your goals, effective strategies and actions that align with desired outcomes. 

Follow along with this episode to explore your own fantastic failures and reassess your goals Finally, explore how you might find support to build a life filled with adventure, value, and freedom without resorting to mere self-deprecation and burnout.

00:00 Introduction and Shocking Statistics

01:53 Personal Reflections and Disappointments

03:20 Understanding the Common Struggles with Goal Attainment

06:29 Reevaluating Goals and Actions

14:50 Optimizing for Success

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I am thrilled to welcome Roxann Klepper, a top realtor from central Alberta and a member of the prestigious RE/MAX Hall of Fame. Beyond her success in real estate, Roxanne is a passionate advocate for women creating strong, sustainable businesses and a proactive community builder. 

About Roxann:

• Grew up in Central Alberta.
• Not only a distinguished realtor but also a significant figure in supporting women entrepreneurs.
• Host of the podcast "Brick by Brick," focusing on female entrepreneurship and community building.

Episode Highlights:

1. An Unexpected Path to Real Estate and Entrepreneurship:
   • Transitioned to real estate full-time after reassessing her career and life goals with her husband. Transitioning from a job she loved to embracing a new opportunity in real estate
   • How Roxann moved into leadership and the wisdom of her mentor
      
2. Challenges and Adaptations:
   • Discusses the difficulties of leaving a stable job and adapting to the entrepreneurial lifestyle.
   • Emphasizes the importance of flexibility and the decision to focus on real estate for long-term personal and professional goals.
      
3. Mentorship and Growth:
   • The crucial role of mentorship in business development and success.
   • Strategies for transitioning from a conventional job to owning a business.
      
4. Entrepreneurship Insights:
   • Insights into the demanding nature of running a business, including the need to excel in various roles.
   • Advice on focusing on high-value tasks and delegating lesser tasks to optimize business operations.
      
5. Financial Literacy and Women in Business:
   • The importance of financial literacy, especially for women.
   • Personal anecdotes about the impact of financial education on personal and professional life.
      
6. Work-Life Balance and Health Challenges:
   • Roxann shares her recent health challenges and the impact on her business.
   • Strategies for maintaining business continuity during personal crises.

Roxann’s journey reflects the resilience and adaptability required to succeed in business. Her story is not just about professional success, but about building meaningful connections and fostering a supportive community.

Contact Roxann Klepper

• "Brick by Brick," podcast for more insights on entrepreneurship and community building.
• Website: roxyk.ca For real estate inquiries or collaborations, 
• Facebook:  RoxyKRealEstate
• Instagram: roxklepper

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

Thank you for tuning in! Join us next week for another inspiring episode of "Be The Anchor." Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed today's discussion.

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In this episode, Kari guides you through a reflective practice for closing out the year. You are encouraged to come back to your core values, express gratitude, assess your wins, acknowledge challenges, and reflect on your experiences. The episode emphasizes the importance of pausing and resting before setting new goals for 2025. Join in with a journal and your favorite beverage to create space for personal and professional growth.

01:45 Reflecting on Core Values

02:42 Embracing Gratitude

04:52 Celebrating Wins

07:57 Learning from Challenges

11:00 Creating Space for Rest and Renewal

13:45 Conclusion and Looking Ahead

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Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode, Kari Lotzien sits down with Dr. Shahana Alibhai, author, TEDx speaker, family physician, and mental health advocate. Together, they dive into the challenges of balancing high-performance careers and personal well-being, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, and the simple yet profound practice of joy stretching. Dr. Shahana shares insights from her groundbreaking work with adolescents and her new book, "Feel Better," which is already making waves. This episode is packed with actionable advice for leaders, parents, and individuals striving for better mental health and connection.

1. The Dual Role of a Mental Health Advocate:
   • Dr. Shahana opens up about her journey from being a mental health professional to becoming a patient herself, battling pure OCD and postpartum struggles.
2. Breaking the Stigma:
   • Insightful discussion on society's varying levels of tolerance for mental health conditions and the importance of vulnerability in leadership and personal life.
3. The Invisible Chalkboard:
   • A metaphor for understanding the visible and invisible challenges people carry, and how leaders can create safe spaces in the workplace.
4. Parenting and Emotional Intelligence:
   • Dr. Shahana shares practical strategies for parents to teach emotional regulation, including the power of “replaying” moments with children for better outcomes.
5. Joy Stretching:
   • A transformative concept for finding and savoring moments of joy, especially during busy or challenging times.
6. Mental Health in the Workplace:
   • Addressing the leader's role in setting the tone for emotional health while creating opportunities for connection and understanding among team members.

• “We do not suffer from a lack of joy, simply a lack of recognizing it.” – Dr. Shahana Alibhai
• “Your emotions are not excuses; they are explanations for why you act and react in certain ways.”

• Dr. Shahana Alibhai's Book: Feel Better (available on Amazon and Audible)
• Connect with Dr. Shahana 
• Instagram - @thedrshahana
• LinkedIn -   https://www.linkedin.com/in/shahana-alibhai-feelbetter/
• Website: website

Take a moment to practice joy stretching this holiday season. Slow down, engage your senses, and savor the small moments of connection and happiness.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to "Be The Anchor" on your favorite podcast platform. Share this episode with someone who needs a little more joy and connection in their life.

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In this insightful episode, Kari Lotzien, a seasoned business and leadership coach, unpacks the complexities of hiring friends and family members in small businesses. Drawing from personal experiences and her work with clients, Kari provides actionable advice on how to make this sensitive arrangement work while maintaining professional boundaries and fostering business growth.

Whether you’re a small business owner in a close-knit community or simply considering bringing a familiar face into your team, this episode will guide you on navigating the challenges and opportunities involved in hiring and retaining great employees.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Mindset Triggers in Hiring Friends and Family
   • Common scenarios leading to these hires: personal compassion or business emergencies.
   • How to step into the CEO role and evaluate decisions objectively.
      
2. Keeping the Hiring Process Fair:
   • Importance of treating friends and family like any other candidate.
   • Why resumes, interviews, and reference checks are non-negotiable.
   • Setting equitable standards to ensure a fair workplace.
      
3. Defining Roles and Responsibilities:
   • How clear job descriptions and boundaries support healthy relationships.
   • Tips for balancing personal connections with professional expectations.
      
4. Navigating Bias and Accountability:
   • Recognizing and mitigating loyalty bias and the halo effect.
   • Establishing systems and metrics to ensure fairness across the team.
      
5. Planning for Sticky Situations:
   • Preparing for potential challenges like performance issues or role transitions.
   • The importance of regular assessments and open communication.
      
6. Real-Life Examples:
   • Kari shares a personal story about hiring her daughter during a peak business period, highlighting a couple of key strategies to making this work well

Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners:

• Treat every hire, friend or family, as a professional decision.
• Use systems and processes to maintain fairness and protect relationships.
• Plan ahead for potential issues, including how to handle exits gracefully.

Special Offer:
Take the Leadership Style Quiz to discover your strengths and receive personalized strategies and podcast recommendations tailored to your current business stage and your style of leadership.

Work with Kari: 

• Anchored Leadership Academy
• Private Business and Leadership Coaching

Contact Kari Lotzien | Be the Anchor: 

• Website: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Facebook: BeTheAnchorLtd
• Instagram: BeTheAnchor.ca
• Linked In: Kari Lotzien

Enjoyed this episode? 

Subscribe and share it with fellow small business owners who might benefit from these insights. Follow Kari on LinkedIn or visit our website for more resources on scaling your business and building a strong team.

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