If you’re running an online business, you already know how important it is to have systems that actually work—not just ones that look good on paper. But turning audience attention into revenue? That can feel a lot trickier.

In this episode, I’m joined by business strategist Jordan Gill, the founder of Systems Saved Me. Jordan and I dig into the most common mistakes entrepreneurs make with sales conversions, why keeping your systems simple is often the smartest move, and creative ways you can personalize and position your offers to stand out.

We also talk about how tools like ChatGPT can make content repurposing a whole lot easier, and why focusing on fewer platforms might just be the fastest way to see bigger results. If you’re selling digital products or growing an online business, this conversation is packed with practical strategies to help you streamline, sell more, and avoid burnout.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when trying to convert sales

• Why simple systems are often the most effective for growth

• How to personalize and position your offers so they stand out

• Smart ways to use AI tools (like ChatGPT) to repurpose content and save time

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Learn more about Jordan

• Listen to my 100K Method podcast series

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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Choosing the right legal structure for your business can feel… overwhelming. Sole proprietorship, LLC, S corp, C corp… what do all these terms even mean? And more importantly, how do you know which one is right for YOU?

When I was first starting out, I had so many questions about business structures. I didn’t want to mess up something that could affect my taxes, my liability, and my long-term growth. And I know I’m not the only entrepreneur who’s felt that way.

That’s why in today’s episode of Work Less, Earn More, I’m breaking down the four most common business structures and walking you through the pros and cons of each. I’ll share what I’ve personally learned from navigating these transitions myself, give you tips for when it makes sense to switch from one structure to another, and explain why it’s so important to get professional advice from an accountant or attorney.

If you’ve ever felt confused about what’s best for your business—or you just want to be sure you’re set up in the smartest way possible—this episode will clear things up.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• The differences between a sole proprietorship, LLC, S corp, and C corp (in plain English)

• The key pros and cons of each structure

• When it might make sense to switch from one structure to another

• Why professional guidance from an accountant or attorney is essential

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Grab our free course

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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In this episode, I’m joined by leadership strategist and operations expert Jillian Dolberry to talk about how you can build a reliable system for making smarter decisions in your business.

We dive into why reactive management can hold you back, how to make sure your choices align with your core values, and the daily habits that keep operations running smoothly. Jillian also shares practical tips for delegating, documenting processes, and avoiding the operator trap, that all-too-common mistake of trying to do everything yourself.

If you’ve been wanting to streamline your operations, empower your team, and free up more of your time to focus on growth, this conversation is full of actionable insights you can start putting into practice today.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How to make business decisions that align with your core values

• Practical ways to delegate tasks and empower your team

• The importance of documenting processes for smoother operations

• How to avoid the operator trap and free up your time for growth

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• The 100K Method Podcast Series

• Learn more about Jillian

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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Ever feel like your schedule is packed, but somehow, you’re still not getting stuff done?

Or maybe you look at someone who seems to “do it all”: run a business, homeschool their kids, cook real meals and think, HOW?! 

I get that a lot. People often ask how I manage to run a business, a YouTube channel and podcast, homeschool my kids, keep my house clean(ish), and still find time for things like rest, reading, and a social life.

The truth? I’m really not that busy.

In fact, my life is pretty relaxed.

And no, it’s not because I have a magical 28-hour day or an army of assistants. It’s because I plan my weeks with intention. I’ve created a system that gives space to what matters and lets everything else flex around it.

So in this post, I’m pulling back the curtain on exactly how I plan my week for both professional and personal success to stay productive without feeling overwhelmed.

Why Most People Struggle to Get Things Done

Let’s start with the root problem: we all have big goals but sometimes low motivation and little clarity on when and how to get those goals done. 

This creates a perfect storm of good intentions and unmet expectations.

But here’s the good news, the solution isn’t more hustle. It’s better planning. So, let’s break it down, shall we?

Step 1: Set Weekly Time Boundaries (and Stick to Them… Kinda)

Before I dive into what I do, let me tell you what I don’t do:

❌ Schedule every second of every day
❌ Expect myself to be “on” all the time
❌ Guilt myself for taking a break

What I do is set flexible boundaries.

For example, I’ve decided that my business gets 20 hours of my time each week. Most often, that’s 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Is that the perfect schedule? Not exactly. Sometimes I wish it were earlier or later. But it works because it gives me structure, flex when needed, and protects that time mentally even if I shift it physically

The key here is deciding in advance what matters and then reserving space for it. Just like how you'd budget money.

Step 2: Determine What Actually Deserves Your Time

It’s one thing to say, “I’m going to work 20 hours this week.” It’s another to know what to work on.

That’s why, every quarter, I set 3–4 focused business goals. These aren’t urgent tasks like answering emails. They’re the “important but not urgent” projects that move the needle.

Examples:

• Launching a new product

• Hiring a team member

• Redesigning a system

• Writing content for a launch

Then, when I plan my week, I already know which big rocks I need to move forward.

Step 3: Automate and Delegate the Basics

Every week, there are tasks that have to get done like answering emails, paying the team, planning content, cleaning the house.

Are these life-changing? No. But they’re necessary.

So I make these tasks as automatic as possible.

• In my business, I use Asana to schedule recurring admin tasks.

• At home, I follow a chore routine and meal plan.

That way, these things happen consistently without me reinventing the wheel every week.

Step 4: Plan Your Week Around the “Big Stuff”

On Fridays, I look at the week ahead and ask:

• What are the next steps for my quarterly goals?

• What days are already full?

• Where is there room to do deep work?

Then I schedule tasks related to those big goals into the open blocks on my calendar (always within my 20-hour workweek boundary).

It’s like playing Tetris with my priorities… and it works!

Step 5: Let the “Small Stuff” Fill In the Gaps

Not every task is a game-changer, and that’s okay. Things like:

• Updating graphics

• Organizing files

• Answering non-urgent emails

These things do need to happen eventually, but not at the expense of my top priorities.

So I let them fill in the margins.

Think of it like filling a jar: if you start with sand, you won’t fit the rocks. But if you start with the rocks, there’s still room for the sand to sift in.

Step 6: Intentionally Procrastinate the Rest

Now for my secret weapon: intentional procrastination.

At the end of my planning session, I move anything leftover (that isn’t urgent or important) to next Sunday in Asana. It’s my little “parking lot” for tasks.

Sometimes I get back around to them. But often? I realize I didn’t need to do them in the first place.

And that’s a win, because not doing unnecessary tasks is a powerful productivity hack.

But Doesn’t the To-Do List Keep Growing?

Yes… and no.

Sometimes it does. But then I finish a big project, or I have a lighter week, and I use that time to catch up on all the little things.

Also, letting a task sit for a few weeks helps me decide if it even needs to be done. (Spoiler: about 50% of the time, it doesn’t.)

So instead of stressing, I let the list ebb and flow. That’s the beauty of this approach, it adapts.

Final Thoughts: Plan With Purpose, Not Pressure

The reason this system works so well isn’t because it’s rigid or perfect.

It works because I’ve:

• Set boundaries for each area of life

• Chosen clear goals so I know what to focus on

• Automated the recurring stuff

• Scheduled my week in advance

• Let the non-essentials fill the gaps

• Procrastinated on purpose

It’s intentional planning, not hustle.

And that’s why my schedule feels spacious, even when there’s a lot going on.

So if you’re tired of feeling behind, I encourage you to try this system. You might be surprised how unbusy your life can feel… and how much more you get done.

Want your calendar to look and feel like this? 

100K Mastermind walks you through how to design a business that works for you — with automated systems, clear priorities, and a strategy that finally brings real momentum (and income!) without chaos.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• My step-by-step weekly planning process

• How I set boundaries and stay focused on priorities

• Why I intentionally procrastinate on certain tasks

• Tips for fitting in small tasks without losing momentum

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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But here’s the good news: you don’t have to spend hours creating it manually anymore. AI tools are evolving fast, and if you’re not using them to your advantage, you’re missing out on a major opportunity to create quality content faster. 

In this post, I’m sharing three powerful (and practical!) ways to use AI to create better content faster PLUS one bonus strategy to completely automate your content workflow. Let’s jump in, shall we?

AI for Idea Generation: From Blank Page to Brilliant in Minutes

The hardest part of content creation? Getting started.

You sit down to write a blog post, film a video, or post to Instagram... and nothing. Crickets. 

Instead of staring at a blank screen, try this:

• Open up an AI tool like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini.

• Use a simple prompt: “Give me 10 video ideas about [your topic].”

• Instantly get a list of fresh, relevant, SEO-friendly content ideas.

It’s like having a marketing strategist, research assistant, and idea generator—all rolled into one. And it doesn’t stop there. AI can help you:

• Outline your content before you even start writing

• Craft engaging titles and hooks tailored to your audience

• Suggest examples and stories to make your message more impactful

Before I started using AI, I’d spend hours just planning what to say. Now? I can whip up a week’s worth of content ideas in 20 minutes and refocus my energy and time on the work that keeps my business growing.

AI for Repurposing: Turn One Piece of Content Into Five

Creating content is one thing. Maximizing your efforts by repurposing that content? That’s where the real “time saving magic” lies.  

Let’s say you just filmed a 10-minute YouTube video. Instead of letting that effort sit in one place, here’s how AI can help you repurpose it:

• 📝 Turn it into a blog post (like this one!) with AI writing tools

• 💬 Pull quotes and insights for LinkedIn or Twitter

• 🎬 Clip short-form videos for Reels, Shorts, or TikTok

• 📩 Create an email newsletter summarizing the highlights

• 🎙️ Draft a podcast episode or script based on your original content

What does this mean? More visibility. More engagement. More income.

And by using the right AI tools, generating that visibility takes minutes rather than hours. 

💡 Pro Tip: Want to get even more strategic? Use custom GPTs or AI workflows to tailor your content repurposing for each platform’s best practices. Check out this video to learn exactly HOW.

AI for Refining Content: Make It Stronger, Clearer, and More Engaging

Let’s be honest, first drafts rarely shine. But you don’t have to spend hours editing and second-guessing yourself.

Instead, think of AI as your personal content coach. With the right tools, you can:

• ✍️ Reword or simplify sections that feel clunky or unclear

• 📖 Add examples and storytelling to boost connection

• 📈 Optimize for SEO and readability with formatting and keyword suggestions

• 🔍 Fact-check and enhance your content with up-to-date references

The result? Stronger content that connects with your audience and performs better in search. 

Bonus: Automate Your Entire Content Workflow

This is where the magic really happens. When you combine AI content tools with automation, you can streamline the entire process which again, saves you hours every week and helps keep you consistent.

Here’s what this could look like:

• ✅ Set up AI templates for repeat content (like podcast notes or Instagram captions)

• ✅ Use auto-posting tools to schedule content across platforms

• ✅ Enable AI-powered research to stay on top of trends

• ✅ Track content performance with AI analytics tools

With a system like this in place, your content engine just keeps running, whether you're at your desk or out of office. 🌞

Smart Creators Don’t Just Work Hard—They Work Smart

AI isn’t replacing creators. It’s empowering us to do what we do best — faster, better, and with a lot less stress.

But AI isn’t the only way to streamline your business and buy back your time...

Meet Melio: The Smarter Way to Handle Business Payments 

Let’s face it, backend business tasks like paying bills and managing invoices can eat up way more time than they should. That’s why I use Melio to streamline all my business payments.

With Melio, I can:

• Pay vendors and contractors directly from my bank account, debit card, or even credit card (even for vendors that don’t accept them).

• Choose between multiple same-day payment options like card payments, instant transfers, and same-day ACH.

• Keep my finances organized with QuickBooks or Xero sync.

• Send international payments in USD or local currency with competitive exchange rates and reliable security. 

👉 You can get started with NO monthly fees with their Melio Go plan or upgrade to a paid plan which includes advanced features like batch payments, approval workflows, and even W9/1099 tax form tools.

Honestly, it’s one of the smartest upgrades I’ve made to my business systems because less time managing money = more time growing your business.

Ready to “Create Smarter”?

If you’re eager to start using AI to level up your content creation, don’t forget: small changes lead to big results. Try out just one of these strategies this week: brainstorming, repurposing, refining, or automating, and watch what happens. 

And if you’re ready to level up your backend systems too? Try Melio and let it handle the “businessy” backend while you focus on what you love.

You’ve got this.

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In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Dave Heath, founder of Human Focus AI, for a conversation about how entrepreneurs can use AI to run their businesses more efficiently. Dr. Heath shares why now is the time to start integrating AI, comparing it to the early days of the internet, and how adopting it early can give you a major advantage. We dive into practical ways to use tools like ChatGPT for content creation, quality control, and streamlining daily operations. He also explains how to build custom AI assistants tailored to your unique business needs and how to avoid some common mistakes. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for using AI to save time, boost productivity, and stay focused on what matters most.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• Why early adoption of AI can give your business a competitive edge

• How to use tools like ChatGPT for content creation and quality control

• Steps to create custom AI assistants tailored to your business

• Common mistakes to avoid when integrating AI into your workflow

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Small Business 101

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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In this episode, I’m sharing a challenge that nearly every aspiring entrepreneur faces at some point: how do you choose the right product to create and sell?

I’m walking you through the five-step framework I use to help my students make this decision strategically so they can confidently create a product that sells, even if they have a small audience or feel uncertain about their expertise. Whether you’re thinking about creating a course, a digital product, or something else, I’ll show you how to identify opportunities, filter your ideas using my Four Ps method (Problem, Person, Proven, Personal Fit), and validate your concept through real customer interactions and pre-sales.

I’m also sharing a practical example from one of my students, Jane Calms, who successfully launched her first course by following these exact steps.

If you’ve ever struggled with indecision, self-doubt, or simply having too many ideas, this episode will give you the clarity and direction you need to move forward.

Use this scoring spreadsheet to decide WHICH of your product ideas to pursue: https://gillianperkins.com/choose-what-product

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• A clear, step-by-step process for choosing the right product to create

• How to narrow down your ideas using the Four Ps method

• Practical ways to validate your product idea before you build it

• Encouragement and examples to help you get started, even with a small audience

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and fellow entrepreneur, Tara Wagner. Tara is an accredited small business consultant who has been through a lot in recent years, navigating chronic health challenges and long COVID while still running a successful business.

We had a really honest conversation about what it looks like to build a sustainable, profitable business when life throws you curveballs and how social media, specifically Instagram, can either help or hurt in that process. Tara shared how she’s learned to treat her Instagram profile more like a digital business card: simple, strategic, and supportive of her overall business goals (without requiring hours of her time every week).

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or uninspired by social media, I think you’ll find this conversation refreshing and encouraging.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How to optimize your Instagram profile so it works for you even when you’re not actively posting

• Why social media shouldn’t run your business or your life

• How to create intentional content that aligns with your offers and helps convert followers into clients

• Tara’s plan for her own 90-day challenge to revive her social media presence in a way that feels aligned and manageable

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Learn more about Tara

• YouTube Workshop Registration

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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AI has changed the game, making it easier than ever to create more content but also raising the bar for quality. In this episode I talk about what’s working right now, from story-driven videos and long-form interviews to the growing shift toward video and podcasts as preferred content formats.

We’ll dive into why building trust and creating personal connections is more important than ever and how “fast track funnels” can help speed up the buyer journey. I’m also breaking down why free “lite” versions of your offers can increase conversions and why user-generated content still plays a powerful role in today’s marketing landscape.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to optimize your marketing strategy, this episode will help you stay ahead of the curve and reach your audience more effectively.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• The most effective marketing strategies for online businesses in 2025

• Why video and podcasts are outperforming written content

• How to build trust and connection with your audience

• The benefits of offering free “lite” versions of your products

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Register for the YouTube Workshop

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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And that’s frustrating—for everyone.

Amazon used to be the go-to for buying reliable, well-written books. But lately, it’s been hard to separate the helpful from the hastily thrown together. 

So, I challenged myself. Could I leverage the right AI tools to speed up the process of creating and publishing a workbook WITHOUT sacrificing quality? 

You’ll have to find out for yourself! 

Step 1: Finding the Right Idea

The first step was idea generation. I used ChatGPT to brainstorm 20 different workbook topics geared toward digital entrepreneurs. It came up with solid suggestions, but I quickly realized AI alone doesn't know what’s actually popular or in demand. It doesn’t track search volume or consumer interest in real-time.

That’s where Book Bolt came in. Their Cloud module gave me the data I needed—like how many reviews similar products have and what’s trending on Amazon. After comparing results, I landed on an idea: a Content Marketing Planner with a strategic twist.

Step 2: Creating the Content with ChatGPT

Once I had my topic, I asked ChatGPT to help outline the workbook. It mapped out a comprehensive structure once I outlined some “rules” that it should follow. The next challenge? Getting usable, well-formatted content.

ChatGPT did a great job drafting the material, but formatting it like an actual workbook (you know, with prompts and fill-in-the-blanks and all that good stuff) was a bit tricky.

Thankfully, with a few follow-up prompts, ChatGPT was able to deliver a nicely formatted document complete with section headers and lines for writing. I had to tweak a few things manually (like lengthening the lines for written responses), but it saved me hours of work.

Step 3: Designing the Workbook in Book Bolt

With the content ready, it was time to design and format the book for publishing.

Book Bolt made it super easy to upload my content, arrange pages, and even design a professional-looking cover. If you’re new to book publishing, Book Bolt simplifies what could otherwise be a very technical process.

From creating an enticing front cover to ensuring every section landed on the correct page, Book Bolt had a tool to help.

👉If you’re wanting to try it out for yourself, head here to enjoy 20% in savings for the duration of your Book Bolt subscription with code GILLIAN20!

Step 4: Finalizing and Publishing

After some small hiccups and minor delays, I was able to create and publish my high-quality workbook in just over 5 hours. 

Could I have rushed it in under four (my original “deadline”)? Maybe. But taking the extra time meant I produced something I was truly proud of—a tool that could genuinely help entrepreneurs and will probably be more successful in the long run.

Want to See the Process in Action?

This post gave you the play-by-play, but my actual workbook building process was highly visual. So, if you're curious to see exactly how I used ChatGPT and Book Bolt together to create my Amazon workbook, check out the behind-the-scenes video tutorial here for a more detailed “how-to”.

Final Thoughts

Creating digital products is one of the most scalable ways to make money online. But as more creators jump on the AI bandwagon, it’s more important than ever to create something worth reading.

That doesn’t mean it has to take months. With tools like ChatGPT and Book Bolt, you can go from “idea to published” in a matter of hours—without sacrificing quality.

Now, if you’re interested in using AI in other parts of your business, check out THIS video to learn how to create a custom GPT that will turn your videos into blog posts (that actually sound like YOU!).

Can’t wait to see what you (and your AI assistant) come up with!

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In this episode, I'm excited to share a conversation I had with Gabe Cox during the Grow Your Business Without Social Media Online Conference. We talked all about how to grow your business with content marketing in a way that’s both strategic and sustainable.

I shared why YouTube is my favorite platform for long-form content and how I use it to attract leads and build trust with my audience. We also got into how I repurpose content across different platforms, plan videos more efficiently, batch-produce content, and even turn content creation into a revenue stream.

If you're looking to grow your business without being glued to your phone or computer all day, this episode will give you the tools and strategies to do just that.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• Why I rely on YouTube to grow my business

• My strategy for repurposing content across platforms

• How I plan and batch content to save time

• Simple ways to monetize your content

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Register for the YouTube Workshop

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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In today's episode, I’m diving into a topic that every entrepreneur needs to understand: how to protect your business legally without spending a fortune. I may not be a lawyer, but after years of building and running multiple businesses, I’ve learned a lot about the legal steps small business owners need to take to stay protected and profitable.

I’m sharing what I’ve learned about choosing the right business structure, using solid contracts and client agreements, creating essential website policies, protecting your intellectual property, and knowing when (and what kind of) business insurance makes sense. I’ll also introduce you to Small Business Legal 101, a practical and affordable course taught by licensed attorney Sam Vander Wielen, available inside Startup Society.

Whether you’re just getting started or have been in business for a while, this episode will help you understand the key legal protections your business needs and how to get them in place without breaking the bank.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• The most important legal protections every small business should have in place

• How to set up contracts and agreements that actually protect you

• Affordable ways to safeguard your website, content, and intellectual property

• When you really need business insurance and when you might not

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Grab our free course, Small Business 101

• Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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As I get ready for the arrival of baby number six, I’ve been deep in preparation mode, not just at home but inside my business too. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I’m setting my business up to run smoothly while I step away for maternity leave.

I walk you through the behind-the-scenes projects I’ve been prioritizing, like creating content in advance, planning upcoming launches, and onboarding new team members. I also share how I’m using tools like AI to delegate key responsibilities such as marketing, promotion, and managing partnerships.

One strategy that has been especially helpful during this season is the 12-week year system, which has allowed me to get more done in less time and stay focused on what really matters.

If you’re planning a break from your business or just want to streamline your operations, this episode will give you a practical look at how I’m preparing my company to thrive without me.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How I'm preparing my business for maternity leave

• The specific projects I'm focusing on to keep things running smoothly

• Ways I'm using AI to delegate and automate key tasks

• How the 12-week year system is helping me get more done in less time

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Want to quit your job in the next 6-18 months with passive income from selling digital products online? Check out Startup Society.

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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Let’s talk about something a lot of business owners are wrestling with right now…

Should I use AI to help with my marketing?

It sounds smart. After all, who wouldn’t want to save time writing emails, blog posts, or sales pages?

But then you try it—and the results are… meh. It’s generic. It’s robotic. It doesn’t sound like you.

So, is it even worth it?

In this week's episode, I sat down with copywriting + AI expert Jason Benfer, to get realabout this exact question.

Here’s what we talked about:

• Why AI alone won’t write great copy (and what will)

• A deep dive into the only sales framework you'll need (Hook attention → Build trust → Inspire action.)

• How to partner with AI—without losing your voice or authenticity

One of my favorite parts of the conversation? When Jason talks about his AI-powered creation, Sherpa that takes the best of both worlds—AI speed + human strategy—and turns your marketing copy into a sales machine.

If you’ve been curious about HOW to best use AI to grow your business, this episode is a must-listen.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• The copywriting framework Jason uses to craft high-converting messages

• Why AI can help you write better sales copy faster

• Common mistakes entrepreneurs make with their messaging

• How to use tools like Sherpa to improve your sales pages

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• See what AI can do for your website with a custom Website Re-Write (Use coupon code WORKLESS when you check out for 40% off until June 30th.)

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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Yeah… I’ve been there. 

When I started my first online business, I was a mom of two toddlers, pregnant with my third, and planning a backpacking trip across Europe. (I know—what was I thinking?!)

But here’s the truth: If you wait for the “perfect” time, you’ll be waiting forever.

In this post, I’m sharing the real story of how I built my first successful digital product business—even in the middle of one of the busiest, messiest seasons of my life. I’ll walk you through the five exact steps I took to get from idea to income, so you can use them to start your own business too.

Let’s dive in.

Step 1: Choose a Profitable Idea That Fits Your Life

I knew I wanted a business that was flexible, creative, and fun.

That meant:

• I could work from anywhere (like an Airbnb in Greece )

• I wasn’t tied to a rigid schedule

• The business could grow with me through all life’s stages

So I chose to create a membership site—inspired by the idea of recurring, semi-passive income. The recurring revenue would give me stability, and the digital format would let me work from my laptop while my kids napped.

Your takeaway? Choose a business model that matches your goals and your lifestyle. Whether that’s a membership, a course, coaching, or a service—you want something you’re excited about and that customers are willing to pay well for.

Step 2: Validate the Idea Before You Build It

I didn’t want to waste time (or money) building something no one wanted. So instead of setting up a full platform, I started by hosting a few live workshops on Zoom.

Each one focused on a topic I planned to cover inside the membership—and they were low-cost ($27–$29), easy to promote, and helped me gauge interest.

It also gave me:

• Proof of concept: Were people willing to pay?

• Early content: These recordings became the first lessons in my membership site

Tip: You can do the same by preselling a course, hosting a beta group, or offering a one-time service. The key is to test before you build. Because this step is SO important, I actually built an entire course around testing and proving your business idea before going “all in” on it. VALIDATE will guide you to find a winning product idea, create a powerful sales message, and confidently complete your first launch so that your business can gain momentum from the start. 

Step 3: Keep It Simple at First

Once I knew people were interested, I launched the simplest version of the product.

No fancy tech.
No huge course library.
Just a basic website + access to those recorded workshops.

The goal was getting it live—not making it perfect. (Spoiler: Perfect never happens anyway.)

That way, if only a few people signed up, I wouldn’t have wasted weeks creating content they didn’t even want.

Ask yourself: What’s the simplest version of your product or service that could help people right now? Start there.

Step 4: Start Selling (Even If You’re Scared)

This is the part where most people get stuck.

But I promise—you don’t need a giant audience or a 12-email funnel to start selling.

All I did was:

• Email my small list (from blogging + YouTube)

• Tell them what the product was and who it was for

• Send 2–3 simple emails with a clear call-to-action
  

When I finally launched my membership, I had 300 people on the waitlist… and 300 people joined at $33/month.

That first launch generated $10,000/month in recurring revenue. 🎉

Your next step? Pick a launch date. Put it on the calendar. Start telling people. Yes, it’s scary. But the only way to move forward is to start.

Step 5: Build Systems So You Can Scale

After that first big launch, I quickly realized something…

Now that I had customers, I also had a lot more work.

Creating content, answering emails, managing tech—everything fell on me. Which was a lot, especially after my baby arrived a month later. (Yep—August baby, right after the July launch!)

So, I started hiring—first a video editor, then an operations manager, and eventually more support staff.

But here’s the key: I didn’t hire until the business was making money.

Once I had revenue, I could afford to get help, build systems, and finally take a real step toward working less while earning more.

💡 Pro Tip: Automate Tasks to Save Time

One of the best ways to free up your time as a business owner is to streamline and automate your backend operations. Things like managing payments, tracking invoices, and sending funds can eat up a surprising amount of your week—but they don’t have to.

That’s why I use Melio to handle business payments. With just a few clicks, I can pay vendors, contractors, or bills directly from my bank account, debit card, or even a credit card (yes, even if the recipient doesn’t accept cards!). Not only can I use the payment method I prefer, but each vendor can then choose how they prefer to receive the payment. I can schedule regular ACH payments or expedite them depending on the need, send international payments in local currencies with low fees, and sync everything with QuickBooks Online or Xero to stay organized.

Setting this up has saved me hours each month—and let me focus more on growing my business instead of pushing paperwork. And the best part?

You can get started totally free with Melio Go or choose a paid plan for more advanced capabilities. And if you do it now, you will get 90% discount for the first 3 months!

Melio has been a total game-changer for simplifying my systems, and it’s a great first step toward automating the "businessy" parts of your business.

Final Thoughts: You Can Do This!

Starting your first business doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need to start—with a simple idea, a basic offer, and a willingness to keep learning as you go.

If I could do it while pregnant and managing two toddlers… you can absolutely do this.

And if you want a step-by-step roadmap? Be sure to check out my free mini course: Small Business 101. It covers everything you’ll need to get moving in the right direction.

Now go take that first step. You’ve got this.

Related Posts

In today's episode, I’m continuing the conversation I started over on the Online Business Podcast with Kwadwo Sampany-Kessie. We’re diving deep into the inner workings of my YouTube-based evergreen sales funnel from how I generate consistent traffic, to the way I’ve optimized conversion rates and structured my email sequences to be both effective and ethical.

I’m sharing the behind-the-scenes of how I’ve built a funnel that continues to work for me day after day, without constant maintenance or hustle and how you can do the same. Whether you’re just starting to build your funnel or looking to fine-tune what you’ve already got, I think you’ll find this episode both practical and encouraging.

I also talk about my personal journey with YouTube and how sticking to a minimal content schedule has actually helped drive significant traffic and growth for my business. If you're curious about building a more sustainable business that still gets results, this one’s for you.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How I use YouTube to drive consistent traffic to my evergreen sales funnel

• The key elements of an ethical and effective email sequence

• Why a minimal content schedule can still produce major results

• Practical tips for building a sustainable, automated sales funnel without burnout

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• CFT YouTube Workshop

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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MOST online courses will teach you how to make $$$. Whether it be "how to make money from home", "how to make money with your own online course", "how to make money while traveling"...

🤔 So let me ask you, have you ever wondered if you could sell a premium online course by teaching your audience something else?

In this week’s video, I sat down with Jacques Hopkins—creator of Piano in 21 Days, an $800 online piano course that’s earned over $4 million in revenue.

Yep, you read that right. $800 piano course. $4 million earned.

But don’t be fooled—this wasn’t an overnight success. Jacques spent years earning just $1,000/month before discovering one major strategy that skyrocketed his course sales.

In this episode, we talk about:

• The exact funnel he used to 10x his revenue

• Why his first launch totally flopped (and how he turned things around)

• How he used YouTube traffic + evergreen webinars to build a truly passive income stream

There’s SO much wisdom packed into this conversation—and if you’re a course creator or online educator of any kind (or WANT to be!), ❤️ you’re going to walk away with a dozen lightbulb moments.

📺 So, got 30 minutes? HEAD HERE to hear Jacques’s full story and get his best tips for long-term success with ANY online course:

Hope it inspires you to dream a little bigger and take action on that course idea you’ve been thinking about. You don’t have to teach "business" to build a highly profitable one of your own. 😉

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How Jacques grew his online course Piano in 21 Days to over $4 million in sales

• The YouTube strategy he used to drive consistent traffic and leads

• Why sales funnels were the turning point in his business growth

• How an evergreen webinar and smart discounting boosted his conversions and revenue

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Learn more about Jacques

• Listen to Jacques Podcast

• The $100K Method Podcast Series

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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In this post, I’m going to walk you through two of the easiest online businesses you can start in 2025—even if you’ve never made a dollar online before. These options don’t require special skills, big investments, or tons of time to get started. In fact, you could land your first paying client within days.

Ready to build something real with just your laptop and some determination? Let’s dive in.

Why These Two Business Models?

Not all online business ideas are created equal. Some take a lot of time to learn (looking at you, app development 😅), while others require big startup capital. So, I picked two that check all the boxes:

• No experience needed

• Zero startup costs

• Immediate earning potential

• High scalability

They’re perfect whether you’re totally broke, testing the waters with a side hustle, or ready to go all in.

Option #1: Freelancing — The Fastest Way to Start Earning Online

If you want to make money fast, freelancing is hands down the best route.

Why? Because you’re selling something people already want: your time and attention.

What Is Freelancing?

Freelancing is simply doing work for others without being their employee. That means you’re in charge. You can work with multiple clients, set your own rates, and (best of all) work from your couch in your PJs.

Even better? You don’t need to be an expert. There are tons of beginner-friendly freelance roles where you can learn as you go and raise your rates as you gain experience.

Best Freelance Jobs for Beginners

Here are a few freelancing jobs that are easy to start and pay surprisingly well:

1. Customer Service Specialist

• 💬 Companies still need real humans to connect with their customers—especially high-end brands that prioritize personal service.

• You’ll answer questions, solve problems, and represent the brand in a positive way.

• Average pay: $15–$25/hour

2. Executive Assistant

• 🗒 Organized? Detail-oriented? Great at email and scheduling? This could be a great fit.

• You’ll help busy professionals manage their calendars, travel, and daily to-do’s.

• Average pay: $25–$50/hour

3. Social Media Manager

• 📱 Even with AI tools, businesses still need people to make strategy decisions, write captions, and schedule posts.

• If you’re reliable, creative, and know your way around Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, you’re ahead of the game.

• Average pay: $20–$40/hour

4. Tech Assistant

• 🛠 Know how to set up a WordPress website? Familiar with email marketing tools like Mailchimp or ConvertKit?

• There are tons of entrepreneurs out there who need help with this “simple stuff”—and are happy to pay someone else to do it.

Pro tip: What feels basic to you might be gold to someone else.

How to Get Started with Freelancing

Here’s your game plan:

1. Start Networking

• Reach out to friends, family, or people you know who run businesses.

• Build relationships before pitching your services.

2. Create a Freelance Profile

• Use platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.

• Start with lower rates to land your first few clients and build your reviews.

3. Do a Great Job

• Every client is a chance to earn testimonials and referrals.

• Overdeliver (but don’t work for free!), and your work will market itself.

Option #2: Coaching or Consulting — Get Paid to Share What You Know

Yes, you can get paid for your advice. And no, you don’t need to be a certified “expert” to get started.

If you've ever helped a friend solve a problem, you’re already halfway to becoming a coach or consultant.

What’s the Difference?

• Coaches help clients reach goals through guidance and encouragement.

• Consultants offer expert advice and strategic plans in a specific area.

Either way, you’re helping people get results, and they’re happy to pay for it.

Coaching & Consulting Niches to Consider

Not sure what you could offer? Here are a few in-demand niches that don’t require formal credentials:

1. Parenting & Family Coaching

• If you've figured out how to get your kids to sleep, do chores, or eat veggies—people will pay you for that wisdom.

2. Health & Wellness

• Maybe you lost 30 pounds, healed your gut, or transitioned to a plant-based lifestyle.

• People want real-world support more than textbook advice.

3. Tech Consulting

• Know your way around tools like Zapier, ClickUp, or ChatGPT?

• Teach others how to implement these tools in their businesses.

4. Financial or Budget Coaching

• You don’t need to be a CPA. If you’ve paid off debt, learned how to budget, or figured out how to live on less—you can help others do the same.

Important note: You don’t need fancy credentials, but you do need integrity. Be clear about what you do and don’t offer.

How to Get Started with Coaching or Consulting

1. Choose Your Niche

• Pick something you’ve already had success with in your own life.

2. Offer a Few Free Sessions

• This helps you build confidence, gather testimonials, and refine your offer.

3. Set Starter Rates

• Aim for around $100 per session when starting out. It’s affordable for your clients but still profitable for you.

4. Build a Simple Website

• Doesn’t need to be fancy. Just a place people can learn about your services and reach out.

5. Use Social Media the Right Way

• Focus on sharing value and building relationships.

• Don’t push your services—draw people in with helpful content and link to your site or free resources.

What Should You Choose: Freelancing or Coaching?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Freelancing is a great fit if you enjoy doing the work yourself and want to start earning money as soon as possible. It typically requires no upfront investment beyond your time, and you can begin right away by finding clients through networking or freelancing platforms. However, as a freelancer, your income may eventually hit a ceiling since you're trading time for money.

Coaching or consulting, on the other hand, involves sharing your knowledge and helping others solve problems. It usually requires a small investment to build a website or create a few marketing materials. While it might take a bit longer to land your first clients, the long-term potential is high—especially if you package your services into scalable offers.

So, if you prefer doing the work directly, freelancing might be your path. But if you love teaching and guiding others, coaching or consulting could be your best bet.

Final Thoughts: It’s Easier Than You Think

Starting an online business isn’t reserved for techies or influencers. If you have a laptop, a little hustle, and a willingness to learn, then you can start building a real income online—this week.

So now it’s your turn.

• Choose your path: freelancer or consultant.

• Pick a niche based on what you already know.

• Start building connections and offering value.

• And don’t forget to grab a simple business plan 👇to organize your next steps.

📥 Download “The Easiest Business Plan Ever” — it’s free, fill-in-the-blank, and just six pages long.

Here’s to your success. 🌟

Related Posts

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Bonnie Christine, an internationally renowned surface designer, entrepreneur, and award-winning online educator. Bonnie shares the inspiring story of how she discovered her zone of genius, that sweet spot where your greatest talents and deepest passions meet, and how that discovery completely transformed her business.

We dive into what it looked like for her to go from solopreneur to building and leading a thriving multimillion dollar company. Bonnie walks us through practical steps for identifying your own zone of genius, prioritizing those tasks, and learning to delegate the rest. We also talk about how to build a strong, supportive team and why tools like time audits and SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) are essential for creating a business that runs smoothly without you doing it all.

If you’re ready to scale your business, work less, and earn more, this conversation is packed with actionable insight you won’t want to miss.

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How to identify and work within your zone of genius

• Practical tips for delegating and building a supportive team

• Tools to streamline your business, like time audits and SOPs

• Bonnie’s journey from solopreneur to multimillion dollar business owner

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• Bonnie Christine's Scaling & Hiring Guide

• Get access to the breakdown of my $100K sales funnel

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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I recently had the chance to switch roles and become the guest on Kwadwo Sampany Kessie's podcast The Art of Online Business. In our conversation, I shared the evolution of my business, my approach to simplifying offers, and how YouTube has played a major role in generating high-quality leads. I also gave a detailed look at my current business model, including my high-ticket coaching program, low-ticket membership, and YouTube course.

We dove into the emotional challenges that come with entrepreneurship, especially during those frustrating revenue plateaus, and the strategy shifts I have made along the way. If you are interested in building a sustainable business, using YouTube to attract better leads, and maintaining a healthy balance between work and growth, this is an episode you will not want to miss!

Show notes + links:

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE TO HEAR:

• How I simplified my offers to create a more sustainable business

• The role YouTube plays in generating consistent, high-quality leads

• The emotional challenges of entrepreneurship and how I navigated revenue plateaus

• A behind-the-scenes look at my current business model and revenue streams

resources from THIS EPISODE:

• The 100K Method Podcast Series

• Apply for 100K Mastermind

• Get in touch!

• Instagram

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