Building a business today isn’t just about having a great offer. It’s about having the systems to follow up, stay organized, and convert conversations into customers. If you’ve been networking but still feel like leads are slipping through the cracks, this episode will help you tighten the gap.In this episode of Entrepreneurship Now, LaShay LaRue sits down with Crystal Gomez, a small business technology strategist, to talk entrepreneurship, technology, networking, automation, CRMs, and the workflows that keep your business moving even when you’re busy. This is a practical conversation for business owners who want to stop doing everything manually and start building a smoother path from first contact to paid client.Crystal breaks down how to use technology to support your follow-up, why digital business cards can upgrade your networking, and how automation helps small businesses stay consistent without burning out. They also cover the mindset piece: resilience, adaptability, and the confidence to actually ask for the sale when the moment is right.What you’ll learn in this episode:• Why technology is a growth tool, not an “extra” for small business owners• How to network in a way that leads to real opportunities and conversions• The follow-up habits that build relationships and increase client conversion• When and why to attend industry-specific events for stronger connections• How digital business cards simplify networking and keep you memorable• Where automation fits in your business so you save time and stay consistent• The CRM basics that help you track leads, conversations, and next steps• Why you have to confidently ask for the sale to grow revenueIf you’re trying to grow a service-based business and you want a repeatable workflow for turning prospects into customers, this episode gives you structure you can actually use.Next stepsJoin the BOLD Network free directory + community-https://www.boldnetworking.org/joinGuest Contact InformationGuest: Crystal GomezCompany: Crystal A. Gomez Technology Consulting FirmWebsite: CrystalGomez.netEmail: [email protected]: / crystalagomez Facebook: / crystaltheconnector Instagram: / crystaladgomez

Building a mission-led business is different. You’re not just chasing revenue, you’re carrying responsibility. If you’re trying to grow something that serves people and still needs real funding, real systems, and real support, this conversation will land.

In this episode of Entrepreneurship Now, LaShay LaRue interviews Shanae Speller, founder of Composed Fest LLC and creator of Compose Fest (a mental wellness festival rooted in creativity, music, and community healing). They talk about what it looks like to turn a personal story into a public impact movement without getting stuck in fear, burnout, or “I don’t have the resources yet” thinking.

Shanae shares how mental health awareness shaped her mission, why consistent networking is the gateway to the right partners, and what entrepreneurs need to understand about fundraising, sponsorships, and building a strong pitch deck. You’ll also hear the truth about team building, education, coaching, and how faith can anchor your mindset while you execute.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• The real story behind Compose Fest and why it exists

• How to build a mental wellness brand that creates community impact

• Networking strategies that help you find sponsors, collaborators, and supporters

• Fundraising lessons for entrepreneurs launching events, festivals, or community projects

• What to include in a pitch deck that makes your vision easier to back

• How to keep building when fear is present and resources feel limited

• Why coaching, mentorship, and education can shorten the learning curve

• How faith and purpose can guide your decisions without replacing structure

If you’re an entrepreneur trying to build something meaningful, this episode will help you connect your mission to a strategy that can actually grow.

Next steps:

Join the BOLD Network free directory + community-

https://www.boldnetworking.org/join

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Shanae Speller

Company: Composed Fest LLC

Email: [email protected]

If you’re building a service-based business and your growth feels inconsistent, this conversation will hit home.

In this episode of Entrepreneurship Now, LaShay LaRue sits down with Gerard Charles to talk entrepreneurship, networking, business growth, client retention, scaling, and what it takes to build a business that stays profitable without relying on one lane of lead generation.

Gerard breaks down why alignment matters at every level of your business, how to build relationships that lead to opportunities, and why retention is one of the fastest paths to sustainable revenue. You’ll also hear practical thoughts on hiring, onboarding, and using faith and mindset to keep moving when entrepreneurship gets heavy.

What you’ll learn in this episode:• How alignment affects your revenue, team, and decision-making• Networking strategies that produce referrals and repeat opportunities• Client retention habits that protect your income long-term• Lead generation principles so you do not depend on one source• Hiring and interviewing tips to build the right team• Mindset and faith practices that keep you consistent through challenges

If you’re tired of guessing, posting without direction, or rebuilding your marketing every month, this episode gives you a better path.

Next steps:Join the BOLD Network free directory + community-https://www.boldnetworking.org/join

Guest Contact InformationGuest: Gerard CharlesCompany: Gerard Charles InternationalWebsite: Gerard Charles International.comEmail: [email protected]

In this episode, the conversation revolves around purpose-driven entrepreneurship, focusing on the journey of Coach Leah, her motivations, and the importance of finding one's niche. The discussion highlights the challenges of entrepreneurship, the significance of soft skills, and the necessity of feedback and testing in business. Networking and building relationships are emphasized as crucial elements for success in the entrepreneurial landscape. In this conversation, the speakers explore the significance of understanding spiritual gifts and how they can influence personal and business growth. They discuss the transformative power of spiritual gifts assessments, the importance of authenticity in business, and the integration of faith into entrepreneurial endeavors. The dialogue emphasizes the journey of self-discovery, aligning one's purpose with their gifts, and the resulting clarity and confidence that can lead to success.

In this episode, LaShay LaRue interviews Ms. Sharae Jenkins about balancing entrepreneurship with health and wellness. They discuss her journey from weight loss to creating a sustainable health coaching business, digital marketing strategies, and tips for entrepreneurs to stay motivated and authentic.

In this episode of Entrepreneurship Now, host LaShay LaRue engages with mental health expert Edna Balboa, exploring the intersection of entrepreneurship, mental health, andholistic healing. They discuss Edna's journey into therapy, the importance of integrating physical and mental health, practical mindfulness techniques, and the significance of self-care. The conversation also delves into the challengesand lessons learned in building a business, as well as effective marketing strategies for attracting aligned clients.

Edna Balboa Holistic Coaching and Yoga, LLC

www.ednabalboa.com

IG- @edna_balboa

Facebook- Edna Balboa Holistic Coaching and Yoga

In this conversation, Nicole Brown, a serial entrepreneur, shares her journey of building multiple streams of income. She owns a child care center, a boutique, and a coaching program. She also pastors a church. Nicole emphasizes the importance of having multiple streams of income, especially in times of uncertainty like the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlights the need to take action and overcome fear in order to succeed as an entrepreneur. Nicole also discusses the power of putting yourself out there and being transparent in your business. She shares her personal experiences with challenges and setbacks, including a tax issue, and emphasizes the importance of investing in yourself and getting coaching to grow your business. Nicole's story demonstrates the value of building a community around your brand and leveraging your influence to collaborate with others. This interview emphasizes the need to show up, engage with your audience, and share your story to build a personal brand. They also highlight the importance of overcoming fear and taking the necessary steps to grow your business. Additionally, they discuss the benefits of networking and collaboration over competition. Nicole shares her experience of receiving PPP loans and adapting her business during the pandemic. She emphasizes the importance of rebranding and adjusting your business to meet the changing needs of your target audience.

Takeaways

Highlights Included:

00:56 Nicole Brown's Multiple Businesses

03:01 Starting a Child Care Business

04:23 Expanding the Child Care Business

05:18 Starting a Jewelry Boutique

06:17 Overcoming Fear and Taking Action

07:31 Transitioning to a Kiosk Business

08:57 The Importance of Showing Up as Yourself

10:45 The Power of Transparency and Overcoming Insecurities

15:16 Transitioning to Business Coaching

19:05 Lessons Learned from Business Mistakes

21:26 The Importance of Perseverance

23:23 The Value of Investing in Coaching

25:50 Building a Community Around Your Brand

30:04 Building a Business and Ministry

34:37 Building a Community Around Your Business

37:02 Overcoming Fear and Investing in Yourself

38:27 Collaboration Over Competition

39:20 Navigating Business During COVID-19

46:26 Adapting and Rebranding in Challenging Times

53:18 Connecting with the Audience and Reaching Success

55:57 Taking Action and Overcoming Procrastination

57:39 Empowering Others and Achieving Financial Freedom

Discover more:

Join the newsletter never to miss an episode and get exclusive content. ⁠[Click Here]⁠

Connect with LaShay on LinkedIn ⁠[Click Here]⁠

Give your business a boost with my 30-day list building challenge: ⁠[Click Here]⁠

In this episode, host LaShay LaRue interviews Brittany Jones, the owner of Best Friend and Faith, a women's empowerment brand. Brittany shares her journey of discovering her purpose and starting her business. She emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and being obedient to God's calling. LaShay and Brittany discuss the significance of community and support in entrepreneurship. They also talk about the lessons learned from previous business ventures and the importance of embracing failure.

Finally, they explore the strategies Brittany used to market and build a purpose-driven brand. In this conversation, Brittany Turner Jones shares her journey of owning her voice and the power of transparency and authenticity. She emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and self-doubt and not trying to please everyone. Brittany highlights the value of focusing on quality over quantity and building a community that provides a safe space for women. She also discusses the significance of investing in personal development and building an email list. Brittany encourages individuals to embrace mindset mastery and personal growth and to share their unique stories. She concludes by sharing her contact information for further connection.

00:00 Introduction to Best Friend in Faith

02:22 Discovering Purpose and Starting Best Friend and Faith

06:09 Overcoming Fear and Pursuing Entrepreneurship

09:01 The Importance of Community and Support

11:16 Lessons from Previous Business Ventures

20:53 Marketing and Building a Purpose-Driven Brand

24:06 Owning Your Voice

25:03 Transparency and Authenticity

26:25 Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt

27:44 Not Trying to Please Everyone

29:41 Focusing on Quality over Quantity

31:24 Building a Community

33:21 Creating a Safe Space for Women

36:51 Investing in Personal Development

39:42 Building an Email List

41:02 Mindset Mastery and Personal Growth

43:19 Owning Your Voice and Sharing Your Story

45:57 Being Authentic and Unique

47:19 Connecting with Brittany Turner Jones

Discover more:

Connect with LaShay on LinkedIn [Click Here]

Give your business a boost with my 30 day list building challenge: [Click Here]

Connect with our guest:

www.bestfriendinfaith.com or www.britneytjones.com

britneyturnerjones and bestfriendinfaith on all social media, including YouTube