Employee To Boss: Entrepreneurship, Side Hustles, and Business Growth Tips from Experts

Employee To Boss: Entrepreneurship, Side Hustles, and Business Growth Tips from Experts

By Hayleigh Hayhurst, Podcast Producer & StrategistBusinessEntrepreneurship
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Employee To Boss: Entrepreneurship, Side Hustles, and Business Growth Tips from Experts episodes

  • 138. Building an Apex Mindset: How to Balance Business, Health & Personal Growth with Dev Connell

    In the hustle of entrepreneurship, it’s easy to let your health, mindset, and personal growth fall by the wayside. But what if prioritizing those things was actually the key to building a more successful business?


    In this episode of Employee to Boss, I sit down with Dev Connell, founder of Apex, a transformative community that blends personal development, fitness, and business mentorship for high-achieving women. Dev shares her journey from zoology major to six-figure entrepreneur, her experience with burnout, and how she completely restructured her life to prioritize success without sacrificing health and happiness.


    If you’ve ever struggled with maintaining energy, balancing work and personal life, or feeling like your business isn’t aligned with your true passion, this episode is for you!



    In this episode:

    • How Dev transitioned from employee to business owner (and why she pivoted multiple times)
    • The dangers of hustle culture and how to build a sustainable business
    • The Apex Mindset: Balancing mind, body, and business for peak performance
    • Why traditional self-care might actually be self-sabotage
    • The truth about success in online business (and what coaches aren’t telling you)


    Action Steps for the week:

    1. Unfollow anyone on social media who doesn’t make you feel good or inspire you positively.
    2. Move your body in a way that challenges you and track how it impacts your energy and productivity.
    3. Evaluate your life in three areas—mind, body, and business—rate them 1-10, and identify where you need to improve.


    Connect with Dev:

    Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/



    Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

    Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

    Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


    Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

    Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


    Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    44 min
  • 137. Finding Your Niche is About More Than Just Business—It’s About Alignment with Sairan Aqrawi

    Have you ever felt like you’re meant for more, but you’re not sure what that “more” is? In this episode of Employee to Boss, I sit down with Sairan Aqrawi, an engineer, leadership expert, and business coach who helps professionals uncover their hidden gems—the talents and passions they may have buried over time.


    Sairan shares her inspiring journey from a long career in engineering to coaching professionals on how to step into leadership, start businesses, and rediscover their true purpose. She explains why your past hobbies and interests might hold the key to your future success and how to take action—even if self-doubt is holding you back.

    If you've ever questioned your career path or struggled to find your niche, this episode is a must-listen!




    In this episode:

    • How to uncover your hidden skills and passions
    • Why finding your niche is about more than just business—it’s about alignment
    • The biggest fears professionals face when pivoting careers (and how to overcome them)
    • The three essential steps to taking action on your dreams
    • Why waiting for the "perfect time" will keep you stuck forever


    Action Steps for the week:

    1. Write down three things you want to achieve in 2025.
    2. Take one action toward one of those goals today.
    3. Focus on your health—because success starts with taking care of yourself.


    Connect with Sairan:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sairanaqrawi/

    Mention Employee to Boss when reaching out to Sairan, and she’ll gift you a free 1-hour coaching session to explore your next career or business move!


    Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

    Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

    Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


    Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

    Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


    Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    38 min
  • 136. Mastering Mental Performance: How to Think Like a CEO with Karina Baldwin

    Ever feel like your emotions, stress, or self-doubt are holding you back in business? In this episode I sit down with Karina Baldwin, a mental performance coach with a master's degree in performance psychology, to discuss how business owners can train their minds for success.


    Karina shares her journey from athlete to entrepreneur, revealing how mental performance strategies—typically used by elite athletes—can be applied to business. She breaks down theperformance coaching model, the power of mindset shifts, and how your thoughts directly impact your results.



    In this episode:

    • The difference between therapy and mental performance coaching – and why both matter
    • How to shift your mindset from“I don’t know what I’m doing” to“I can figure this out”
    • ThePerformance Coaching Model: how your thoughts fuel emotions, actions, and results
    • Whybusiness success isn’t a fluke – and how to replicate what’s already working
    • The importance ofbuilding an identity beyond just your business to prevent burnout
    • Actionable strategies totrain your brain to work for you, not against you


    Action Steps for the week:

    1. Get Uncomfortable – Do something outside your comfort zone this week (ex. show up on video, ask for a discount, pitch yourself)
    2. Write the Story You’re Telling Yourself – Journal about your current beliefs around business and success
    3. Expand Your Mindset – Listen to an episode ofTrue Adventure Podcast and learn mental performance strategies for free


    Connect with Karina:

    Website:https://trueadventurecollective.com/mental-performance-coaching

    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/trueadventureco/



    Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

    Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

    Website:https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

    YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

    TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


    Music: John Kiernan.www.johnkiernanmusic.com

    Produced by Espresso Podcast Production:https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


    Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

    47 min
  • 135. How to Define Your Brand Values That Attract Ideal Clients in Business with Amanda Grover

    Brand Strategy is different that Brand Marketing, and it’s also different than Branding… so what is it? In this episode, Amanda Grover tells us! 


    Amanda helps entrepreneurs connect with their authentic selves to build brands that are sustainable and aligned with their core values. 


    Amanda Grover, Founder of Storytellers Grove, is a yoga teacher and brand strategist who helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs and creatives clarify their message and build brand strategies that convert by aligning their values with authentic storytelling. For more established entrepreneurs, she transforms their expertise into memorable soundbites and boosts their brand awareness through organic strategies, so they never have to guess where their next lead is coming from. 


    Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your brand strategy, Amanda’s tips and experiences will inspire you to build a brand that feels true to who you are.



    In this episode:

    • Defining your brand values and using them to guide business decisions
    • Understanding the stages of client awareness to tailor your messaging
    • How to position yourself as a guide to attract ideal clients
    • The importance of taking time off social media to reconnect with your creative voice
    • Combining brand strategy with nervous system regulation to stay grounded in business

    • Action Steps for the week:

      1. Journal about your values – Write down what you stand for and what’s non-negotiable in your life and business.
      2. Define your client’s stages of awareness – Map out how your messaging speaks to clients at different stages, from problem-unaware to most-aware.
      3. Start your day with movement or a body scan – Set the tone for your day with a short run, yoga session, or mindfulness practice.

      4. Connect with Amanda:

        Website: https://storytellersgrove.com/services/

        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storytellersgrove/

        Podcast:  https://storytellersgrove.com/podcasts/



        Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

        Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

        Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

        YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

        Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

        TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


        Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

        Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


        Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

        48 min
      5. 134. Struggling to Stay Consistent with Your Blog? This Episode Will Change That!

        Blogging can be overwhelming—what to write, when to write, and how to make it work for your business. But it doesn’t have to be.

        In this episode I chat with Eden, founder of Maven Made Copy, who’s on a mission to simplify blogging while maximizing results. Eden specializes in SEO-driven blog strategies that help creative entrepreneurs boost their visibility and attract their dream clients.

        Whether you're just starting out or want to take your blog to the next level, Eden shares the tools, tips, and strategies to make blogging approachable, impactful, and—dare we say—fun!


        In this episode:

        • Creating a blog strategy that works for your audience and search engines
        • Finding blog topics using keyword research, social media, and your content pillars
        • Why consistency is critical and how to stay accountable
        • The intersection of blogging and podcasting for content repurposing
        • Using Airtable and Asana to stay organized and on track

        • Action Steps for the week:

          1. Download her free content calendar template to start organizing your blog topics.
          2. Set a blogging schedule that works for you—whether monthly, weekly, or bi-weekly—and commit to it.
          3. Dedicate CEO days to focus solely on your business and creating valuable content.

          4. Connect with Eden:

            Website: https://mavenmadecopy.com

            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mavenmadecopy

            Download Eden’s Free Content Calendar Template: https://mavenmadecopy.com/blog-content-calendar


            Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

            Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

            Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

            YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

            TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


            Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

            Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


            Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

            35 min
          5. 133. Making Your Mark in Real Estate with Garrett Brown, Seattle Based Real Estate Agent

            Thinking about stepping into the world of real estate but not sure where to start? In this episode, Garrett shares his inspiring journey from rookie agent to seasoned expert, building a career that blends entrepreneurship, strategy, and relationship-building. 


            Whether you're considering real estate as a full-time gig, a side hustle, or an investment path, Garrett’s actionable tips and real-world insights will help you navigate the industry with confidence. 


            In this episode:

            • How Garrett got his start in real estate.
            • The importance of mentors and building relationships in the industry.
            • Balancing short-term goals with long-term wealth-building strategies.
            • Practical tips for staying top of mind and building trust with clients.
            • The 4 U’s of business: being Useful, Unique, Urgent, and Ultra-Specific.

            • Action Steps for the week:

              1. Time-block your week to optimize productivity and focus on income-generating activities.
              2. Write down your unique value proposition using the 4 U’s: Useful, Unique, Urgent, and Ultra-Specific.
              3. Join a networking group or community to build connections and meet potential clients or collaborators.

              4. Connect with Garrett:

                Website: https://www.sellwithgb.com/

                Book a call to discuss how he can help you. https://calendly.com/gbrown02/appointment


                Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

                Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

                Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

                YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

                Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

                TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


                Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

                Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


                Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

                36 min
              5. 132. Earn While You Burn: Starting a Cleaning Business with Holly Oldham

                What if cleaning wasn’t just a chore but a path to empowerment, financial independence, and personal growth? In this episode, Holly Oldham shares how she turned life’s moments into a thriving business and a platform to inspire others. Get ready for a conversation about boundaries, resilience, and creating a life that’s unapologetically yours. 


                Holly Oldham is a two-time published book author, poetic comedian, and solopreneur behind PRMF Luxury Cleaning, a successful high-end cleaning service. An advocate for domestic violence, parental alienation, mental health awareness and a daily volunteer shoreline custodian, Holly is recognized in her community for her commitment to beach cleaning. She is a multi-state performer around the United States and a previous radio show host. As a proud PRIDE community member, parent to four adult children, and grandparent, Holly finds joy in travel and is passionate about anything coconut or mango-flavored. She also deeply loves all animal, especially turtles, and is the proud owner of a leopard tortoise named Patience. This year, she treated herself to an Alaskan cruise and is eagerly anticipating her 49th birthday celebration with a cruise to Mexico, Honduras, and the Bahamas—an experience made possible by the success of her luxury cleaning business. Today, Holly will be introducing her “Earn While You Burn” program, showing others how they, too, can profit while staying active. Despite her many talents, Holly will always choose cleaning over cooking!



                In this episode:

                • How Holly transformed her life and business post-divorce.
                • Why setting boundaries is key to personal and professional growth.
                • The importance of self-love and how it impacts every aspect of your life.
                • How the cleaning industry can be a lucrative and fulfilling entrepreneurial path.
                • Practical tips for building financial independence and confidence.


                • Action Steps for the week:

                  1. Mirror Work: Look at yourself in the mirror and say, “I love you.” Repeat this daily to build self-love.
                  2. Set Self-Love Reminders: Schedule reminders on your phone that say, “I love you” to pause and practice intentional breathing.
                  3. Give Yourself Grace: Remember, life isn’t always easy, but you’re capable of meeting challenges and growing stronger every day.

                  4. Connect with Holly:

                    Get her course, Earn While You Burn: https://pausereflectmoveforward.teachable.com/?flash=checkout.unpublished_purchasable_error?fbclid=IwY2xjawGkG1RleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHRuEe4_U7LeTWAMaDlkkQjhP7wm8DEdTmKreluL676gQ04ChYF4jUZ5FTg_aem_MavI_qqrz6UkScGuUVL-3w


                    Facebook 

                    FREE Facebook business all-female group 

                    TIKTOK

                    YouTube

                    Instagram 




                    Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

                    Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

                    Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

                    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

                    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

                    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


                    Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

                    Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


                    Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

                    42 min
                  5. 131. What I Learned About Scaling Business at Alex & Leila Hormozi's Acquisition.com Workshop in Vegas

                    As a podcast manager and entrepreneur, I’m always looking for ways to grow my business and help my clients scale theirs. That’s why I attended Alex and Leila Hormozi’s Scaling Workshop in Las Vegas, and wow—this event did not disappoint!

                    In this episode, I’m sharing my biggest takeaways from the workshop and how they relate to podcasting, business growth, and creating a scalable strategy. 


                    In this episode:

                    • Why being in the right room matters and how it can shift your mindset as an entrepreneur.
                    • Single-Channel Risk: What it is, why it’s dangerous, and how podcasting can help mitigate it.
                    • Outsourcing and Scaling: Leila Hormozi’s advice on letting go of control to unlock growth.
                    • Podcast Ads: The hidden gem in scaling your brand and reaching your audience.
                    • Building Trust: How to use your podcast to consistently nurture leads and convert listeners into clients.
                    • Whether you’re a podcaster, an entrepreneur, or both, this episode is packed with insights to help you scale smarter. Let’s dive into what I learned and how I’m putting it into action as the owner of Espresso Podcast Production.



                      Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

                      Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

                      Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠

                      Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠

                      YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction⁠


                      Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

                      24 min
                    • BONUS: Introducing My New Podcast, The Podcast Café!

                      In this special bonus episode of the Employee to Boss podcast, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news—I've launched a brand new podcast called The Podcast Café! 🎧☕

                      While Employee to Boss will continue with four episodes a month, The Podcast Café is an additional space where I’ll share podcasting tips, strategies, and conversations with inspiring podcasters about their journeys.

                      The Podcast Café is already in the top 10% of podcasts globally, and I’d love for you to be a part of its growth.

                      Podcast Cafe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/45JOH5KgRWbySQyZxbSsYB?si=8d62c204f3104f24

                      Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcast-cafe-insights-for-podcasters-from-podcasters/id1778973741

                      YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QJ4ta9lZtQ&list=PL5FhyI1cY-7ahM2j8bwU6up0Dni6GyC04&index=3


                      Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

                      Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

                      Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

                      YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

                      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

                      TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


                      Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

                      Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


                      Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

                      7 min
                    • 130. The Art of Authentic Branding Through Photography with Kristina Pearl Photography

                      Authenticity is everything for business owners, and one way to show people who you are is through your photos. 


                      In this episode, I chat with Kristina, a personal branding photographer that specializing in helping business owners show up with authentic confidence on their website, social media and anywhere photos are needed to create connections and build the know, like and trust factors. 


                      Kristina shares her journey from massage therapist to owning her own photography business. She also shares her approach to understanding her clients’ energies, helping them feel confident in front of the camera, and the importance of showcasing their authentic selves. We also discuss the nuances of networking, finding your brand values, and the impact of color psychology in branding. Whether you're a business owner looking to elevate your brand or a photographer exploring branding photography, this episode is packed with actionable insights!


                      In this episode:

                      • Kristina’s journey from massage therapist to personal branding photographer.
                      • The power of niching down and focusing on branding photography.
                      • How personal branding photography helps attract the right clients and repel the wrong ones.
                      • Tips for building confidence in front of the camera.
                      • The importance of networking and creating meaningful connections.
                      • How to use color psychology to align your brand values with your visuals.
                      • The difference between branding photographers and portrait photographers—and why it matters.

                      • Action Steps for the week:

                        1. Find a Networking Group: Join a local or online networking group that aligns with your values and start building authentic connections.
                        2. Create a Pinterest Board for Inspiration: Start collecting ideas for your branding photo shoot by pinning images that resonate with your brand and style.
                        3. Define Your Brand Values: Identify 3-5 core brand values and align them with colors using color psychology to ensure your visuals represent your brand effectively.

                        4. Connect with Kristina:

                          Website: https://www.kristinapearlphotography.com/

                          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinapearlphotography/

                          Shoot Prep Checklist: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/6261a37e46c9ddac82188a20



                          Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst:

                          Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠

                          Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/

                          YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction

                          Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/

                          TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction


                          Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com

                          Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/


                          Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

                          54 min

                        About Employee To Boss: Entrepreneurship, Side Hustles, and Business Growth Tips from Experts

                        From the publisher's feed

                        Welcome to the Employee To Boss podcast!

                        Employee To Boss is for everyone with an entrepreneurial spirit… For those wanting to start their business, for those wanting to go all-in on their…