Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Solo Grind, I’m getting real about what it means to be a woman in business—especially for those of us who grew up being told to follow the rules, stay in line, and not make waves. Spoiler alert: The hell I won’t.

I’m reflecting on my journey as a solo entrepreneur, the unique challenges we face, and the ridiculous limitations society tries to place on us. We’re talking about the power of showing up as your full, unapologetic self, celebrating how far you’ve come, and proving the naysayers wrong—without waiting for permission.

So grab your coffee and let’s talk about why playing small was never an optio

What I hope you get from this episode...
☕ Permission to take up space. You don’t have to be quieter, smaller, or less ambitious to make others comfortable. Own your success. 

☕ A reminder that you’re not alone. If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t quite fit the mold, welcome to the club—you’re in good company.

☕ The courage to break the “good girl” rules. You don’t have to follow the path others laid out for you. Create your own.

☕ The push to celebrate your wins. You’ve worked hard to get where you are—don’t downplay your success or wait for someone else to acknowledge it.

☕ The confidence to do business your way. You don’t have to run things the way others expect. Build a business (and life) that makes you excited to wake up in the morning.

Links to some really cool stuff: 

Check out the She Built This Podcast by Emily Aborn - an oldie but still a goodie! 
Brent Cobb, "Keep em' on they toes" https://open.spotify.com/track/0f388trqcZyqGbPJUqGWpx?si=97bb6407c50a4fca 

Links to Connect with me
☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative  (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative 
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:

In this episode, I’m hanging out with my good friend and business coach, Nancy Quinn (formerly Nancy Ganzekaufer), and we’re getting into something every solo entrepreneur needs but doesn’t always want to deal with—systems and processes.

We’re take a look at the difference between selling products vs. selling services––they are wildly different! And why setting clear boundaries with clients can actually make your life (and theirs) so much easier.

Nancy and I also get into the nitty-gritty of reclaiming your time, making more money without working yourself into the ground, and using tech to keep things running smoothly. We even chat about sales (yes, you can get better at it with practice).

And Nancy’s got some big updates about her coaching programs, so if you’ve been thinking about working with her, you’ll want to tune in.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in day to day work, constantly stuck in decision fatigue, or just need a little push to get your business running like a well-oiled machine, grab your coffee and hit play. 

What we hope you take away from this episode: 

☕ Systems and processes save your sanity – The right workflows can free up your time, increase profitability, and keep you from feeling like you’re drowning.
☕ Your time is your most valuable asset – You don’t have to work 70-hour weeks to grow a successful business—smart time management and tech can do a lot of the heavy lifting.
☕ Not every client is your client – Setting boundaries and saying “no” when something isn’t the right fit will save you from headaches and burnout.
☕ Social media is a tool, not a time-suck – You don’t need to post every day, but you do need consistency and a strategy that works for you.

Links to some really cool stuff: 

☕ Nancy's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1820424158208787
☕ Design Your Time FREE training https://nancyganzekaufer.com/free-resources-for-interior-designers/

Links to Connect! 

Connect with Teresa
☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative  (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Connect with Nancy 

☕ Book a Business Strategy Session HERE https://nancyganzekaufer.com/business-strategy-session/
☕ Website — https://nancyganzekaufer.com/
☕ Facebook — Nancy Ganzekaufer, Business Coach  https://www.facebook.com/NancyGanzekaufer
☕ Instagram — Nancy Quinn (@nancyganzekaufer  )
☕ LinkedIn — Nancy (Ganzekaufer) Quinn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancyganzekaufer/)

Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:

In this episode, we’re talking about the two big approaches to marketing—transactional and relationship-driven—and how both can actually work together in your business. I’ll break down the pros and cons of each, why finding the right balance matters, and how to create a customer experience that keeps people coming back.

And let’s not forget the importance of stepping away from the grind. Taking a break isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. Burnout is real, and if you’re constantly chasing the next sale without thinking about long-term relationships, you’re setting yourself up for a never-ending hustle.

So grab your coffee, hit play, and let’s talk about how to market smarter, not harder.

What I hope you take away from this episode: 

☕ Transactional marketing focuses on quick sales and revenue.
☕ Relationship marketing is about building long-term connections.
☕ Both marketing strategies can be blended for better results.
☕ Creating memorable experiences enhances customer loyalty.
☕ Trust is a key component in relationship marketing.
☕ Personal touches can turn one-time buyers into repeat clients.
☕ Understanding your business model helps in choosing marketing strategies.
☕ Effective marketing requires a balance between sales and customer experience.
☕ Sustainable success comes from nurturing long-term relationships.

Links to some really cool stuff: 

☕ Last Week's Episode: What do you do when all hell breaks loose (and you have a plane ticket in hand!)

☕ My FAVORITE coffee in the world! Rainy Day Coffee Co. https://rainydaycoffee.square.site/

☕ Erin Condren Planners & Notebooks: https://www.erincondren.com/referral/invite/teresaschlup0214/1 (yep this is a referral link, feel free to just go straight to her website if you'd prefer!) 

Links to Connect with Me! 

☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative  (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:

Ever had one of those days where everything seems to go off the rails—right before you’re supposed to go on vacation? Yeah, me too. In this episode, I’m keeping it real and talking about what to do when chaos hits and you’ve got a plane ticket in hand.

I’m diving into why it’s so important to step away, reset, and shut out the noise so you can focus on what actually matters in your business (and life). We’re talking about the power of taking a break, why you need systems in place so your business doesn’t fall apart without you, and why prioritizing your well-being isn’t just nice—it’s necessary.

More about those systems in our upcoming episode with Nancy Quinn airing March 26, 2025! 

So if you’ve ever felt guilty about unplugging, consider this your permission slip. Hit play, grab your coffee, and let’s talk about why stepping away might just be the best thing you can do for your business.

What I hope you take away from this episode: 

☕ Not all emergencies require immediate attention; some can wait.

☕ Constantly being in 'go mode' leads to burnout.

☕ Having systems in place ensures your business can run smoothly without you. (More about that coming up March 26, 2025!) 

☕ YOU DESERVE THAT VACATION MY FRIEND! 

Connect with Teresa 

☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)

☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)

☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative  (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative 

☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)

☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:

Personal branding isn’t just about logos, colors, and fonts—it’s about you. In this episode, I’m breaking down what personal branding really means for solo entrepreneurs and why it’s the key to standing out in a crowded market. We’re talking about how to define what makes you unique, why authenticity is everything, and the biggest mistakes people make when building their brand (so you can avoid them). I’ll also challenge you to take a closer look at your digital presence and ask yourself: Am I showing up as the real me? Because at the end of the day, people connect with people, not just businesses.

Grab your coffee and hit play!

What we hope you take away from this episode: 

☕ Personal branding is more than aesthetics – It’s about your reputation, how you make people feel, and what sets you apart.

☕ Your digital presence speaks before you do – First impressions happen fast online—make sure yours reflects who you truly are.

☕ You don’t need to appeal to everyone – Trying to be everything to everyone only waters down your brand. Speak to your people.

☕ It’s okay to let your personality shine – Your quirks, passions, and stories make your brand magnetic—don’t hide behind business jargon.

☕ You are your brand—so own it – Show up as you, not some polished version you think people want. The real you is what makes your brand stand out.

Links to some really cool stuff: 

☕ Episode Mention: Love is in the Details

Links to Connect! 

☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative  (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Solo Grind, I’m diving into something that can make or break your business—loving your clients and creating a stellar client experience. First impressions matter, but the client experience goes way beyond just delivering a service. It’s about the little details, clear and consistent communication, and adding that wow factor that makes people rave about working with you. I’ll share how you can create a client journey that not only feels good but also fuels business growth and referrals. Because at the end of the day, clients aren’t just buying a service—they’re investing in an experience. Let’s make it a great one!

Key Highlights

• Loving your clients is essential for business success.
• First impressions begin before the first meeting.
• Client experience is more than just being nice.
• Happy clients are powerful referral sources.
• Personalized communication fosters connection.
• Small details can create lasting impressions.
• Clients want to feel valued and understood.
• Creating a stellar client experience drives business growth.

For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode CLICK HERE!

If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me…

• Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
• Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
• Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
• Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
• LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

This month, we’ve been talking all about LOVE—loving our businesses, our boundaries, our homes, and most importantly, the lives we’re creating. But let’s be real... living a life you love isn’t just about dream jobs, bubble baths, and champagne. Sometimes, it’s about loving your dreams more than your excuses.

Last week, I got hit with Influenza A (yep, the full fever, body aches, miserable experience). And let me tell you—everyone around me had solid reasons why I should hit pause and take it easy. And while I did take care of myself, I also knew something important: I love what I’m building more than the excuses trying to sneak in and keep me stuck.

That’s exactly what we’re talking about in this episode—the three biggest excuses that sneak in and hold us back—Time, Money, and Fear. 

These excuses? They feel real, and maybe they are. But it is up to us to make the choice of just what gets our attention... our dreams or excuses. 

So grab your coffee, hit play, and let’s talk about how to love your dreams more than your excuses. 

Mentions in this episode include:
Design Your Time from Nancy (Ganzekaufer) Quinn: https://nancyganzekaufer.activehosted.com/f/68 

For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode CLICK HERE!

If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me…
Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

In this special birthday episode of The Solo Grind, I am celebrating with my best friend Crystal Loveless Nerpel, who has just launched her book 'Loving Your Home'. We will be sharing more about love, self-care, and the importance of creating a nurturing environment both at home and in business.

There is so much goodness in this episode including the significance of letting go of struggles, embracing the journey of life, and the power of perspective in shaping one's experiences.

Plus, Crystal shares insights from her book, emphasizing the connection between one's home and mindset, and the importance of celebrating personal achievements.

Mentions in this episode include:
S1 Ep4: The Power of Pivoting with Special Guest Crystal Nerpel 
Crystal's Website: https://crystalnerpel.com/

For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode CLICK HERE!

If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me…
Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

🎧 Episode Summary:

In this episode, I’m getting real about something we don’t talk about enough—falling out of love with your business. We all start with passion and excitement, but somewhere along the way, things can start feeling more like a grind than a joy. So, what happened? And more importantly, how do we fix it?

I’m diving into the big reasons business owners lose their spark—feeling stuck with no growth, battling imposter syndrome, and dealing with clients who drain the life out of you. But don’t worry, this isn’t just a vent session—I’m also sharing practical ways to reignite your passion, set better boundaries, and bring back the joy in your business. Because let’s be honest—if you’re not loving what you do, something needs to change. Let’s talk about how to make that happen.

Key Highlights

☕ Focusing on love in business is essential for success.

☕ Negativity often overshadows the positive aspects of our lives.

☕ Imposter syndrome is common among entrepreneurs and can be managed.

☕ Not every client is a good fit for your business.

☕ It's okay to pivot and change direction in your business.

☕ Firing problematic clients can restore joy in your work.

For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode visit https://caffeinecreative.io/the-solo-grind-podcast/

If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me…

Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)

Send us a text

In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Lesley Myrick, Associate Coach with Nancy Ganzekaufer and Interior Designer, and we’re diving into time management with a twist—tailoring it to your personality type! Lesley shares how understanding your unique strengths (yes, even the quirks) can help you manage your time more effectively, reduce stress, and get more done without the overwhelm.

We talk about setting boundaries, the importance of carving out time to reflect and recharge, and practical tips for handling your schedule in a way that actually works for YOU. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty or struggling to find balance, this conversation is all about embracing intentionality, prioritizing self-care, and building a schedule that supports your personal and professional success.

Mentions in this episode include:
☕ Design Your Time: Time Management for Interior Designers by Personality Type: Get Access here ==> https://nancyganzekaufer.activehosted.com/f/68.
☕ Free Resources from Nancy Ganzekaufer https://nancyganzekaufer.com/free-resources-for-interior-designers/ 

For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode visit https://caffeinecreative.io/the-solo-grind-podcast/

If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me…

Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative  )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)