Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

By Monica AllenBusinessEntrepreneurship
Download on the App Store

Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business episodes

  • 235 - Are There Changes You Need to Drive Business Growth?

    Join the Boss Collective Zoom Party


    Change is inevitable, but are you using it to your advantage? In this episode, Monica shares her personal journey of reimagining roles, strategies, and priorities in her businesses to adapt to a new reality. With refreshing honesty, Monica provides actionable steps for business owners to review their numbers, assess priorities, and make intentional changes that drive success. From adjusting marketing strategies to rethinking roles, discover how these shifts can transform your business.

    What You Will Learn in This Episode:

    How to assess your business’s performance by reviewing key data.
    How to identify what’s working and what’s holding your business back.
    How to reallocate roles and responsibilities for maximum impact.
    How to test new strategies without overwhelming your business.
    How to embrace flexibility and let go of ego in decision-making.


    Take charge of your business with the practical insights from this episode. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and sign up for the upcoming Boss Collective Zoom Party to connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs.

    Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss

    Join the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠

    ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠

    Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠

    Ways to reach Monica:

    Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast

    Who is Monica?

    Monica Allen grew up in a small town in Georgia with her single mom who had her at age 18, her grandmother and uncle. Living below the poverty line for all of her young life, Monica was determined to break the cycle. Being the first in her immediate family to attend a 4 year university, Monica worked in the field of insurance as a benefits broker for 8 years and earned her Masters in Business Administration.

    Leaving to set out on her entrepreneurial journey in 2005, she is now a serial entrepreneur owning several businesses. She is co-founder of Zeus' Closet, stuff4GREEKS and Deuce Equity Group.  She is the sole proprietor of Monica Allen Interiors and an Amazon Bestseller (The Fearless Entrepreneurs: Fear Less; Be More).

    She loves equipping aspiring entrepreneurs, side hustlers and small business owners with tips to launch, grow and scale their business while avoiding the many pitfalls of entrepreneurship. She believes that being surrounded by positive people, believing in yourself, and having faith in God has led to her success.


    17 min
  • 234 - How You Can Save Time, Money, and Stress Using AI in 2025 with Ethan King

    In this episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica sits down with entrepreneur, mentor, and keynote speaker Ethan King to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the business world. Ethan shares his insights on using AI to save time, cut costs, and scale your business with efficiency. From marketing strategies to personalized digital assistants, this conversation is packed with actionable tips for business owners ready to embrace the future. Ethan also discusses his workbook, ChatGPT to Double Your Business in 90 Days, a step-by-step guide to leveraging AI for growth.


    Episode Quote:  AI’s impact is visible across various industries, transforming processes and creating efficiencies that were once unimaginable. ~Ethan King.


    What You Will Learn in This Episode:

    How to set up ChatGPT to speak in your brand voice.
    How to use AI tools to save time on marketing, emails, and social media.
    How to automate routine tasks with AI to increase efficiency.
    How to avoid common mistakes when incorporating AI into your business.
    How to future-proof your business by adopting an AI-first mindset.


    Grab Ethan's 2025 (Revised Edition) book here and remember when you purchase from his website you get free updates.

    Ready to transform your business with AI? Listen to this episode to learn how Ethan King uses AI to drive efficiency and growth—and how you can too. Subscribe to Become Your Own Boss, share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs, and leave a review to let us know how we’re helping you level up your business game!

    42 min
  • 233 - How You Can Build Win-Win Relationships That Last

    In this episode, Monica unpacks the concept of win-win relationships and why they’re critical for personal and business success. Inspired by recent encounters with transactional pitches, she challenges listeners to rethink how they build connections. Monica shares insights on fostering genuine partnerships, creating mutual value, and ensuring everyone benefits—whether you’re pitching a podcast, running a business, or nurturing personal relationships.

    She also outlines four actionable strategies to help you lead with value, think long-term, and celebrate others. If you’ve ever wondered how to create deeper, more meaningful connections, this episode is for you.

    Sign up for Zoom Party

    Episode Quote: I’ve built my success on the idea that a win for me involves a win for everyone around me. ~Donny Deutsch

    What You Will Learn in This Episode

    • How to identify and avoid transactional relationships.
    • How to create win-win opportunities in your personal and professional life.
    • How to lead with value and make authentic connections.
    • How to adopt a long-term mindset for building trust and rapport.
    • How to celebrate others to strengthen relationships.
    • Leave a review for the show! Your feedback not only supports the podcast but helps others discover these valuable insights. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who could benefit.



      12 min
    • 232 - THROWBACK - Is Your Mindset Holding You Back?

      Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, Monica is kicking off the year with one more throwback episode that’s all about mindset and its impact on achieving your goals. In this inspiring conversation with Tonya Chernova, she explores the fascinating concept of neuroplasticity and how you can take control of your thoughts to create meaningful change in your life.

      You’ll hear practical insights on how to reshape your mindset, overcome limiting beliefs, and unlock the potential within you.

      Whether you’re setting New Year’s resolutions or just looking for ways to level up your life, this episode will leave you feeling empowered to take charge of your mindset and your future.

      What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

      • What neuroplasticity is and how it impacts your ability to change your mindset.
      • How limiting beliefs can hold you back from achieving your goals.
      • Practical strategies to take control of your thoughts and behaviors.
      • Monica’s personal story of overcoming anxiety and worry around money through neuroplasticity work.
      • Why your mindset is a crucial tool for success in 2025 and beyond.
      • Connect with Monica:

        Visit monicaallen.com for more resources.

        Follow me on Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast

        Join our community on Facebook.

        Subscribe to the Become Your Own Boss podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

        45 min
      • 231 - THROWBACK - You Have the Power to Shape Your Year

        Are you living intentionally, or are you letting life happen to you? As the year comes to a close, Monica challenges you to consider how setting clear intentions can shape your life and business. In this reflective throwback episode, she shares personal stories about swimming lessons, world travel, and building a seven-figure business—all rooted in intentionality. With practical advice and actionable steps no matter the year, Monica guides you through the process of designing the life and business you truly want. Start your new year with purpose and focus—this episode is your first step.

        Episode Quote: The secret to changing your life is in your intentions. Wishing, hoping, and goal setting cannot accomplish change without intention. What is needed is a shift from the inert energy of wanting to the active energy of doing and intention. ~Wayne Dyer.


        What You Will Learn in This Episode:

        • How to set intentions that align with your goals and dreams.
        • How to embrace the sacrifices needed for growth.
        • How to break down goals into actionable steps.
        • How intentional living impacts both your personal and professional life.
        • How to finish the year strong and start the next one with clarity.

        • Grab the Become Your Own Boss Planner

          Take the time to listen to this powerful episode and reflect on your own intentions for life and business. Don’t stop there—share this episode with someone who needs inspiration as they head into the new year. Subscribe to the Become Your Own Boss podcast and leave a review to help others discover this life-changing content. Let’s finish this year with purpose and step boldly into the next!

          11 min
        • 230 - BOSS UP BOOK - Million Dollar Weekend

          In this episode, Monica highlights insights from Million Dollar Weekend by Noah Kagan, a book that challenges entrepreneurs to act boldly, prioritize simplicity, and treat business like an experiment. Monica shares how this book inspired her to rethink how she approaches her own ventures, including the importance of starting now, asking for what you want, and designing a business around your needs—your Freedom Number. Whether you're stuck on where to start or looking for new ways to scale, this episode offers actionable takeaways to move you forward.


          Episode Quote: Next time you are overthinking and not taking action, tell yourself to prioritize taking action NOW and don’t worry about the HOW. ~Noah Kagan.


          What you will learn in this episode:

          • How to stop overthinking and take immediate action.
          • How to calculate your Freedom Number and use it to guide decisions.
          • How to turn business ideas into experiments for faster learning.
          • How to shift from a founder-first to a customer-first approach.
          • How to find and validate million-dollar business ideas.

          • Grab Million Dollar Weekend

            Ready to change how you approach your business? Listen to this episode, calculate your Freedom Number, and challenge yourself to take one bold action this week. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review! Share your thoughts with Monica on Instagram or email, and let’s continue building businesses that make an impact.

            12 min
          • 229 - What the Usher Concert Taught Me About Customer Experience

            Customer experience doesn’t end with delivering a great product or service—it’s about every touchpoint, from start to finish. In this episode, Monica reflects on a memorable Usher concert that got her thinking about the moments where businesses often fall short: the exits. Inspired by a glaring flaw at an otherwise phenomenal event, Monica dives into why the end of your customer journey is just as critical as the beginning. Learn how small business owners can turn potential frustrations into opportunities to build lasting loyalty.

            Episode Quote: The customer experience is the next competitive battleground. ~Jerry Gregoire


            Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss

            Get your⁠⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠⁠

            Join the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community - Level Up Living⁠

            ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠

            Ways to reach Monica:

            • Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast


            • 17 min
            • 228 - Two Netflix Documentaries Every Entrepreneur Should Watch

              In this episode, Monica shares invaluable business lessons she discovered while watching Netflix documentaries on two iconic entrepreneurs: Martha Stewart, the lifestyle maven, and Vince McMahon, the mastermind behind WWE. Despite their differences, both trailblazers used resilience, storytelling, and bold decisions to create empires. Whether it’s filling a market gap like Martha or crafting an experience-driven brand like Vince, their journeys offer timeless takeaways for entrepreneurs at any stage.

              Episode Quote: In the business world, the rearview mirror is always clearer than the windshield. ~Warren Buffett.


              Get Your Become Your Own Boss Planner


              Tune in now to gain inspiration and actionable insights for your entrepreneurial journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs a spark of motivation! Also, connect with Monica on Instagram @becomeyourownbosspodcast and via email at [email protected].

              12 min
            • 227 - Are You Leading Your Family Like a CEO? (THROWBACK)

              In this reflective and actionable throwback episode, Monica shares a powerful way to lead your family with the same intention and purpose as your business. Drawing inspiration from entrepreneur Warren Rustin, she discusses how setting a family vision statement and core values can strengthen relationships, foster unity, and build a lasting legacy. Discover how intentionality isn’t just for the boardroom—it’s for the dining room too. Whether you’re planning for 2025 or simply want to deepen your family connections, this episode will leave you inspired to lead with love, faith, and growth.


              Questions Answered in This Episode

              • What is a family vision statement, and why is it important?
              • How can you create meaningful core values for your family?
              • What steps can you take to align your family’s actions with its values?
              • Why is intentionality key in both business and family life?
              • How can you inspire your children to embrace shared values?

              • Start building your family’s legacy today! Tune in to this inspiring episode and take the first steps toward crafting your family vision and core values

                Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss

                Join the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠

                ⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠

                Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠

                Ways to reach Monica:

                • Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast


                • 17 min
                • 226 - How You Can Turn Holiday Gatherings Into Opportunities for Lasting Impact

                  This holiday season is more than just a time for celebrations—it’s an opportunity to reflect on the legacy you’re building and share meaningful conversations with the people who matter most. Estate planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or reserved for the wealthy. In this heartfelt episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica revisits an essential topic: the steps needed to secure your business, assets, and family’s future.

                  Monica shares practical, empowering questions to help you spark deep conversations with your loved ones. By addressing these topics now, you can ensure a lasting legacy that carries your family’s values forward and provides clarity for generations to come.

                  Episode Quote: Estate planning is an important and everlasting gift you can give your family. ~ Suzy Orman

                  What you will learn in this episode:

                  • How to use the holiday season to discuss legacy-building with family
                  • How to create clarity around your family’s financial assets and wishes
                  • How to spark empowering and compassionate conversations about estate planning
                  • How to ensure your family’s values and stories are preserved for future generations
                  • Questions answered:

                    • What topics should you address when planning your family’s legacy?
                    • How can you introduce estate planning discussions during the holidays?
                    • What steps can you take to prepare your business for the future?
                    • How can estate planning reduce family conflicts and confusion?
                    • What are the first steps to leaving a meaningful legacy?

                    • Take this season as a chance to reflect, connect, and prepare for the future. Listen to the full episode now. Share this episode with family to perhaps get the conversation started. Subscribe to Become Your Own Boss, and leave a review to inspire others to secure their family’s legacy.

                      17 min

                    About Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

                    From the publisher's feed

                    Dive into entrepreneurship with Monica Allen, an entrepreneur with over 23 years of business ownership. This podcast is for you if you desire to start your own business & defy the odds of failure…

                    More shows like Become Your Own Boss: Tips for Starting and Growing Your Own Small Business

                    Elevation with Steven Furtick by iHeartPodcasts

                    Elevation with Steven Furtick

                    15,690 Listeners

                    Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast by Life.Church

                    Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast

                    10,750 Listeners

                    The Amy Porterfield Show by Amy Porterfield

                    The Amy Porterfield Show

                    4,585 Listeners

                    The Side Hustle Show by Nick Loper of Side Hustle Nation | YAP Media

                    The Side Hustle Show

                    1,578 Listeners

                    The School of Greatness by Lewis Howes

                    The School of Greatness

                    21,054 Listeners

                    The How of Business - How to start, run, grow and exit a small business. by Henry Lopez

                    The How of Business - How to start, run, grow and exit a small business.

                    506 Listeners

                    Bedros Keuilian Podcast Show by Bedros Keuilian

                    Bedros Keuilian Podcast Show

                    2,293 Listeners

                    WHOA That's Good Podcast by Sadie Robertson Huff

                    WHOA That's Good Podcast

                    13,235 Listeners

                    The Rachel Cruze Show by Ramsey Network

                    The Rachel Cruze Show

                    3,662 Listeners

                    On Purpose with Jay Shetty by Perfect Strangers

                    On Purpose with Jay Shetty

                    27,988 Listeners

                    IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson by Higher Ground

                    IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson

                    13,041 Listeners

                    3 Tips For Starting Your Small Business by The Surf Shack

                    3 Tips For Starting Your Small Business

                    8 Listeners

                    Huberman Lab by Scicomm Media

                    Huberman Lab

                    29,164 Listeners

                    The Mel Robbins Podcast by Mel Robbins

                    The Mel Robbins Podcast

                    19,061 Listeners

                    BigDeal by Codie Sanchez

                    BigDeal

                    925 Listeners