Skip to main content
Behind the Design

Behind the Design

By Olivia Austin

No fluff or vague lectures that make you zone out. Just real talk on building the business and life of your dreams… Because you deserve both.
Unfiltered entrepreneurship insights—in your ears for free every other week.
Are you tired of reading and hearing the same old aspirational BS?

Too much business content online is the curated result of years of painstaking work and unsexy struggle. Those poolside laptop photos and launch-earning reveals hide what really goes on behind the scenes, which is where the true lessons lie.
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

106. Daily Life of an Artist, Romanticizing Your Life Through Creativity & Following Your Intuition with Nicole Goldfarb

Behind the DesignApr 24, 2024

00:00
38:39
106. Daily Life of an Artist, Romanticizing Your Life Through Creativity & Following Your Intuition with Nicole Goldfarb

106. Daily Life of an Artist, Romanticizing Your Life Through Creativity & Following Your Intuition with Nicole Goldfarb

In this episode of "Behind the Design Podcast", hosted by Olivia Austin, we get an inspiring glimpse into the colorful world of Nicole Goldfarb, the creative CEO of Nixie, and her journey into the business of joy-infusing design.


Nicole Goldfarb is a color-loving creative whose eye-catching illustrations radiate a playful energy that is synonymous with joy. With a signature blend of lively hues, bold shapes and funky typography, her mission is to inspire a life full of fun by making the most out of every day. Nicole believes life is so much more fun when you lean into the things that make you truly happy, so she created Nixie, a brand toting a colorful curation of art and lifestyle goods. Color is her love language, summer is her muse, design is her passion, and the beach is her happy place. Nicole is currently catching rays and making waves in Venice, CA.


Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Olivia Austin, brand designer, strategist, business coach.
  • 04:10 Worked in freelance creative agency, then started selling art.
  • 06:40 Struggling between job and passion leads breakthrough.
  • 12:24 Preparing to move, given different feedback related.
  • 15:27 Launching collection with colorful and cute items.
  • 18:58 Finding joy in small, creative moments daily.
  • 21:20 Finding inspiration in world, city, nature.
  • 23:06 Create, sketch, and let ideas simmer.
  • 27:22 Adapting and taking breaks to enhance productivity.
  • 31:19 Be open to different creative opportunities.
  • 35:42 Excited about expanding party accessories with Nixie.
  • 38:07 Podcast host offering guidance and resources. Follow!
Apr 24, 202438:39
105. Stop Clients From Stalling Website Projects With These Tactics

105. Stop Clients From Stalling Website Projects With These Tactics

In this episode, Olivia Austin shares expert insights on preventing website project stalls with effective communication, system implementation, and client guidance in brand and web design. Tune in for actionable strategies and tips on setting boundaries, maintaining project momentum, and ensuring profitable, timely delivery.

  • 00:00 Encouraging audience engagement, seeking input on topics.
  • 04:51 Integrating copywriting into the design process.

  • 09:07 Copywriter involvement varies based on client preference.

  • 10:20 Align deadline for brand identity and website.

  • 14:52 Experts lead, guide, and communicate in projects.

  • 18:45 Offering multiple options for feedback in detail.

  • 22:33 Clear communication about finalizing website content stages.

  • 24:06 Client feedback shapes website design, limited revisions.

  • 28:50 Implementing fees for ghosting clients ensures profitability.

  • 30:24 Recommend fee range, contract terms, and communication tips.

  • 33:44 Client investment affects commitment, discussed on podcast.

Apr 18, 202435:06
104. Simplifying Your Creative Services, Staying in Your Creative Genius & Becoming a New Mom with Angela Mondloch, Saffron Avenue

104. Simplifying Your Creative Services, Staying in Your Creative Genius & Becoming a New Mom with Angela Mondloch, Saffron Avenue

Angela is the Founder and Creative Heart behind Saffron Avenue, a graphic design studio for ambitious brands and a template shop for entrepreneurs and artists. With a love of designing with intention and connection, I focus on infusing strategy, sophistication, and hand-crafted details into each brand, website, and product. Her mission has been to help creative business owners gain clarity and confidence with their brand and website, allowing them to effortlessly evolve with growth. Today we chat about her evolution of Saffron Avenue and everything she's learned along the way from simplifying her services, honing in on her niche, what her schedule is like as a new mom and business owner and where she finds creativity to do multiple launch collections/year. If you're a creative at heart, you're going to love this episode!


Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Feeling determined to start creative business early.

  • 04:38 Ignorance turned to success through hard work.

  • 07:08 Learned design skills through self-teaching and perseverance.

  • 11:09 Passionate about branding and unique websites.

  • 14:24 Love playing with color, creating seasonal palettes.

  • 18:56 Personalized branding creates excitement and customer engagement.

  • 19:36 Workbook helps brand alignment, Pinterest board review.

  • 25:28 Semi-customs provide clarity and save time.

  • 28:53 Entrepreneurship: follow intuition, find joy, attract success.

  • 30:52 Mindset change, fear replaced by joy.

  • 35:36 Women leading, setting positive examples for kids.

  • 36:31 Changing mind, aging, career impact on family.

  • 39:33 Scheduled work, ongoing projects, and flexibility.

  • 43:13 Shifting focus to branding education, website templates.

Apr 10, 202444:39
103. Create a Customized Growth Strategy for Your Best Quarter Yet

103. Create a Customized Growth Strategy for Your Best Quarter Yet

In this episode of Behind the Design, host Olivia Austin shares a step-by-step strategy for reflecting on the past quarter and creating a customized plan for the next quarter. Discover the #1 important, reflection exercise and identify the actionable steps to define your goals, refine your strategies, and achieve success in Quarter 2.


Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Entrepreneurs need strategic reflection to grow
  • 03:38 Review, reflect, and refine for business growth
  • 09:06 Reflect on achievements and set clear goals
  • 10:16 Setting and maintaining habits for productivity and wellness
  • 14:58 Focus on one goal and specific tasks
  • 17:12 Reflect on goals, ramp up podcast, refine tasks
  • 22:11 Reflect on the episode and share goals
  • 23:00 Encouraging feedback and strategy for business growth


Apr 03, 202424:17
102. Lead Generating Ads for Beginners, Using AI in Your Agency & Stepping Up As a Leader with Kay Allen-Car

102. Lead Generating Ads for Beginners, Using AI in Your Agency & Stepping Up As a Leader with Kay Allen-Car

Join our guest, Kay from KAC Marketing, on the Behind the Design podcast as we dive into secrets on scaling agencies, leveraging AI for efficiency, and mastering email marketing and ad management strategies for small businesses. Plus, you'll hear expert advice on balancing work-life and harnessing the power of organic content and paid ads to grow your client base. Don't miss these valuable insights - perfect for agency owners and marketing professionals looking to thrive!

Kay is a marketing strategist with over 15 years of experience helping businesses take a data-driven approach to increasing revenue. She is a former VP of Marketing & Analytics and is now the founder of the KAC Marketing Agency where she helps 7-figure brands scale through ads and email marketing.

Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Launched email marketing agency, grew through referrals.
  • 06:09 Messaging strategy, GBT training, boosts efficiency.
  • 07:38 AI enhances efficiency and profitability in agencies.
  • 10:49 Learning from previous large agency experience helped.
  • 16:19 Delegation is key for successful hiring.
  • 18:47 Consistent content with client results generates leads.
  • 20:34 Strong network connections essential for business success.
  • 25:48 Starting from scratch, testing messaging and imagery.
  • 29:31 Agencies are expensive; consider freelance options.
  • 33:24 Disagreements with art director over design choices.
  • 35:48 Instagram content should have specific calls-to-action.
  • 37:49 Lower costs with in-app ads, better conversion.
  • 42:45 Prioritizing balance after experiencing burnout, flexible schedule.
  • 44:31 Embrace flexibility in work for success.
Mar 27, 202446:26
101. Elevate Your Process & Increase Profitability with ClickUp

101. Elevate Your Process & Increase Profitability with ClickUp

It's no secret I am obsessed with ClickUp, so in today's episode I'm sharing the reasons why I switched to ClickUp, an inside look of how we use it with clients and our internal processes and how I've been able to ditch all other platforms to streamline to just ONE. ClickUp revolutionized the workflow my agency, eliminating bottlenecks in client and team communication, allows us to get efficient client feedback, systemize client expectations, enhance team collaborations and optimize product. It's truly the reason I can run a multiple six figure design studio working part-time hours. Learn how this powerful platform transformed the business operations and client interactions, paving the way for efficiency, clarity, and seamless project management and how you can use it too!

If you've been curious about ClickUp, or want to elevate your process, this episode will help!

All templates I mention in this episode are in my shop, byoliviaaustin.com/shop ! Use code BTD10 for 10% off!

Start your free trial with ClickUp using this link → https://clickup.com?fp_ref=olivia41

Free Leads + Clients tracker → https://delightful-glade-81121.myflodesk.com/ycuwhsfli1


Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Excited to talk about streamlining business processes.
  • 05:26 Overwhelmed by client and team communication.
  • 09:14 Client communication improved with new project tools.
  • 11:16 Centralized platform streamlines client project organization effectively.
  • 17:25 Efficient communication, eliminates confusion, and simplifies processes.
  • 23:34 Streamlining communication, organization, and project management efficiently.
  • 25:30 ClickUp is great for agency owners and designers.
Mar 20, 202426:47
100. Understanding Intellectual Property and Protecting Your Business with IP Attorney, Paige Hulse

100. Understanding Intellectual Property and Protecting Your Business with IP Attorney, Paige Hulse

On today's episode, we are taking it super logistical, legal I guess ha! Where Paige Hulse of Paige Hulse Law is answering all of your small business legal questions. Paige Hulse received her Juris Doctorate from The University of Tulsa and is the owner and lead attorney of Paige Hulse Law, the founder of The Creative Law Shop® (CLS), Co-Founder of the Special Forces Support Fund™ and the owner of Fairway Stables™. As an intellectual property attorney and passionate serial entrepreneur, Paige fosters the tension between ambition and contentment; equipping diligent entrepreneurs to embrace their seachange, build an enduring business, and experience their own version of The American Dream.


Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Introducing Paige Hulse, IP Attorney and Mastermind sister

  • 03:53 Creative work often misunderstood, undervalued in society.

  • 08:38 Following intuition, meeting demand, being adaptable, successful.

  • 10:27 Flexibility in work, diverse income sources important.

  • 17:40 Registering intellectual property protects your business name.

  • 19:44 Contract determines ownership of created content.

  • 22:51 Small business owners should consider intellectual property.

  • 26:28 Website legality and liability for designers explained.

  • 31:12 Designer's need for creative license and AI.

  • 35:38 Ensuring trademark and copyright compliance in design.

  • 39:04 Original designers will have valuable intellectual property.

  • 42:21 Plan business with potential for future sale.

  • 48:04 Separate design studio from liability perspective first.


Mar 13, 202453:01
99. Motherhood Unfiltered: Real Talk From My First Twelve Months

99. Motherhood Unfiltered: Real Talk From My First Twelve Months

In this unfiltered and candid episode, Olivia delves into the nuances of her first year of motherhood. From navigating the unexpected realities of motherhood to redefining her identity, Olivia shares her personal journey with raw honesty. Discover her reflections on building a business around her new life as a mom and the importance of setting boundaries for both business and personal life. Gain insights on prioritizing self-care, embracing progress over perfection, and learning to live in harmony rather than seeking work-life balance. This episode offers inspiration, encouragement, and relatable experiences for all mothers, expectant mothers, and anyone navigating the complexities of modern motherhood. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that sheds light on the joys, challenges, and transformations of the first year of motherhood.Other related episodes: 86, 83, 75, 73byoliviaaustin.com/shop Use code BTD10 for 10% off!

Mar 06, 202432:04
98. Following Your Intuition and Finding Balance with Inner Peace and Ambition with Anna Wojtowicz

98. Following Your Intuition and Finding Balance with Inner Peace and Ambition with Anna Wojtowicz

I am sitting down today with Strategy addict and inner work convert, Anna Wojtowicz. Anna helps ambitious female entrepreneurs, learn how to approach scaling profits without losing their purpose & peace by integrating practical mindset and spirituality into strategy. The end result is finding balance between ambition and inner peace because she believes you shouldn't have to choose between the two. We chat all of the things in this episode from finding your intuition to mental health as an entrepreneur, grief and taking leaps of faith that had her move to the South of France with her dog. Anna is a first generation immigrant, Business & Mindset Coach, speaker, host of The Limitless Podcast and Founder of The AW Creative. Anna and I met in a mastermind group we're in and hit it off immediately. We spent lots of time having late night couch chats and this conversation will feel like you're in on one of those. Let's get into it.@theawcreativetheawcreative.combyoliviaaustin.com/shop BTD10 for 10% off your entire purchase!

Feb 28, 202453:52
97. If You Want to Make More Money in 2024, Do This

97. If You Want to Make More Money in 2024, Do This

In this episode of Behind the Design Podcast, host Olivia Austin discusses strategies for increasing your profitability and making more money in 2024. Olivia delves into the importance of knowing your numbers and understanding the difference between revenue and profitability. Drawing from her own experience, she shares how she transformed her agency into a more profitable business by trimming expenses and building a lean team. She emphasizes the significance of the financial health check and provides practical tips for reviewing your numbers, such as tracking revenue, analyzing expenses, and calculating profit margins. Tune in to this episode to learn how to navigate the path to financial success this year.


Don't forget to check out Olivia's Business Design Studio Business Blueprint in her template shop for valuable resources to help you plan and strategize for your own business. Use code BTD10 for a 10% discount. Get ready to take your business to the next level!

https://byoliviaaustin.com/design-studio-business-blueprint

Feb 21, 202431:25
96. How to Enhance Efficiency Without Losing Empathy In Business With Jessica Frigon

96. How to Enhance Efficiency Without Losing Empathy In Business With Jessica Frigon

Today I sit down with Jessica Frigon, a seasoned expert with over 15 years of experience in Operations and Integration and owner of PROJECT LOVE. PROJECT LOVE offers an unparalleled, full-scale, and elite operational service. PROJECT LOVE is more than just an operations firm; it's a transformative experience for female entrepreneurs and lifestyle brands seeking to redefine the way they do business. She takes a holistic approach to operations, focusing not just on systems but also on the people and technology that make your business run smoothly. Her goal to streamline your processes, automate repetitive tasks, and create a functional ecosystem that allows you to step fully into your visionary role as CEO but also provides you with the freedom to focus on what matters most to you.


Feb 12, 202443:20
95. Defining What Matters: Who Are You Without Your Business?

95. Defining What Matters: Who Are You Without Your Business?

While I usually provide trainings and workshops, in today's episode we're exploring into a different theme where I encourage you to think outside the box and do some inner work. The central question posed in this episode - 'Who are you without your business?' We are constantly being defined by our business, and while that's gotten us to where we are today, it's just as important to explore your identity beyond your entrepreneurial accomplishments. In today's episode, I'm challenging you to define your identity apart from your business because that is what it takes to build your dream life in business.


instagram.com/byoliviaaustin

Feb 07, 202417:04
94. How to take control of your own schedule and optimize your business and life

94. How to take control of your own schedule and optimize your business and life

We delve into a crucial aspect of building a business that often gets overlooked – taking control of your schedule so you can build the business and life of your dreams. I share practical tips you can start implementing today, from designating specific days for calls to creating a batch schedule for tasks and planning your week on Sundays. The episode highlights the significance of having designated times for reading emails, setting phone boundaries, and even prioritizing sleep by keeping the phone out of the bedroom and will leave listeners feeling empowered to take control of their life and their business, creating more time for what truly matters.


byoliviaaustin.com/shop

@byoliviaaustin

@designed_toscale


Jan 31, 202445:34
93. How to Create a Luxury Client Experience + Increase Client Retention Leading to Higher Profitability in Your Business

93. How to Create a Luxury Client Experience + Increase Client Retention Leading to Higher Profitability in Your Business

In the early years of owning my own design studio I felt very unorganized – my workflows weren’t clear, projects would drag on, clients would take control and I would spend more time on marketing to attract more clients than focusing on the clients I had already landed. I quickly went from the excitement of launching my business to paralyzing overwhelm. 

It wasn’t until I switched my focus to elevating my client experience and design process that I was able to nurture my current clients and perfect their experience – and guess what happened next? I started to see REAL results in my business.

Enhancing my workflows and the internal structure of my business allowed me to give my clients what they actually needed – quality support and quicker turn-around times, which also provided me with minimized scope creeps and increased profits. 

So what does an elevated client experience look like? Let’s dive into it.

Jan 24, 202425:36
92. Remove the Stress of Finances with LoriAnn Kuntz

92. Remove the Stress of Finances with LoriAnn Kuntz

Today I am joined by LoriAnn, who is the owner and CEO of Profit Priority, a boutique accounting and fractional CFO firm helping creatives go from unsure to unstoppable when thinking about their finances. With over 8 years of experience in accounting and small business finance, she has the insight and experience to help you up-level your business while removing the stress and burden of managing your finances. Whether you are just starting out or you have been in business for years, her mission is to help creatives feel peace about their numbers while growing their profit and confidence. With a passion for small businesses and the insight and knowledge of finance, she also loves to do business coaching and mentorships for other agency owners. Business aside, LoriAnn is really just a midwest gal obsessed with running, reading, iced coffees and spending time on the farm with her two little kiddos.


Links: https://byoliviaaustin.com/design-studio-business-blueprint


Jan 22, 202435:03
91. What I'd Do If I Were Starting My Business From Scratch

91. What I'd Do If I Were Starting My Business From Scratch

In this reflective podcast episode, I share my experience after 6 years of entrepreneurship and what I would if I were starting my business from scratch. I go through a series of important steps including defining services, building a portfolio, choosing a marketing platform, establishing systems and processes, and the power of networking. The episode is packed with inspiring anecdotes, practical advice, and a strong emphasis on consistency, mindset, and action to help you build a business AND life you love. Ideal for both budding entrepreneurs and those in need of a business refresh, this episode is a roadmap to building a business you will love. Tune in for valuable lessons on navigating entrepreneurship, setting up for success, and living your purpose.

Jan 10, 202445:25
90. How to Set Intentional Business AND Life Goals for 2024

90. How to Set Intentional Business AND Life Goals for 2024

The way you've been taught vision planning and goal setting is all wrong. Most people will look at their revenue goals for the year, write out some goals that sound like that will help and then hope you accomplish them all by the end of the year. Today, I'm teaching the exact framework I use and teach my mentees in how to set goals based on your big life vision and then break them down by quarter, month and year in a tangible way so you have a strategic roadmap on how, when and WHY you're hitting your goals.


This episode is an edited audio recording version of my free mini-course, Goals by Design. You can get instant access to this course here → https://currentdesignstudio.mykajabi.com/offers/SjdqDFT7/checkout


byoliviaaustin.com/shop

byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scale








Dec 21, 202329:03
89. Ditch the "all or nothing" mindset + actually live the life you're dreaming about

89. Ditch the "all or nothing" mindset + actually live the life you're dreaming about

We dive deep into the topic of overcoming the "all or nothing" mindset that often holds us back from taking action in our business and life. We explore practical strategies and mindset shifts that can help you break free from the paralysis of perfectionism and start making progress towards your goals. Whether you're struggling to get started on a project, launch a new business, or make positive changes in your personal life, this episode will provide you with inspiration and actionable tips to get you moving in the right direction. Tune in to this episode and learn how to get out of your own way and start living the life you're dreaming about! If you enjoy this episode, make sure to subscribe to our podcast for more valuable insights and practical advice.


byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scale

byoliviaaustin.com/shop (use code BTD10)

Dec 13, 202330:54
88. Building + Pricing your design services for maximum profitability

88. Building + Pricing your design services for maximum profitability

Today we're diving deep into building and pricing your brand and website design services. Whether you're a seasoned designer looking to refine your approach or an emerging designer seeking to establish your online presence, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will elevate your design business as a whole. Pricing your design services can be a challenging and is the top question I get asked by you as a listener of the podcast, my coaching/intensive clients. I love it because if you are asking this question, you're thinking SMART about your business. In my opinion, after 6 years growing and evolving my business I believe that it all starts with your services. Once you have your services in place, you can streamline your processes, do planning and projections, eliminate scope creeps, start hiring and all of this leads to increased profitability, especially in an agency model.


byoliviaaustin.com/shop

byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scale


*Use code BTD10 for 10% off everything in the template shop!

Dec 06, 202332:31
87. Managing your energy, work-life harmony + "having it all" as a mom + entrepreneur with Laura Sinclair

87. Managing your energy, work-life harmony + "having it all" as a mom + entrepreneur with Laura Sinclair

Today's episode we have the conversation about the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Laura and I swap our personal experience and practical advice on managing energy, work-life harmony, and the power of personal branding in businesses. Both know that despite trials, it’s entirely possible to have the best of both worlds – motherhood and entrepreneurship – and it’s important to find your unique path without comparing it to anyone else's. This is a very candid conversation with two moms and businesses owners who are in different stages of life. I hope you enjoy!


https://www.laura-sinclair.com/



Nov 22, 202347:26
86. Healing Self-Sabotage, Postpartum Anxiety, and the Journey to Reinventing Yourself

86. Healing Self-Sabotage, Postpartum Anxiety, and the Journey to Reinventing Yourself

In this heartfelt podcast episode, I am opening up about my personal experience as a new mom and what the journey over the last 8 months has looked like for me. Emphasizing the importance of inner work, support, and healing modalities like inner child healing, I discuss my evolution as what it's like being a business owner and new mom overcoming postpartum anxiety and perfectionism to now seeking harmony between business and personal life. I want to open up the conversation on these topics and set the tone for this new era of Behind the Design Podcast by continuing to inspire our community who may be going through similar phases of reinvention.

Nov 08, 202338:00
85. Manifesting a Business + Life in Alignment wWith Your Soul's Purpose With Gabrielle Laura

85. Manifesting a Business + Life in Alignment wWith Your Soul's Purpose With Gabrielle Laura

I hope you are ready for a life changing conversation with a friend, colleague and someone I go to for advice, Gabrielle Laura. Gabrielle is an intuitive channeler who has the gift of being able to channel your soul's purpose. She connects to your intuition, higher self, spirit team, and anyone present or crossed over who is impacting your soul's purpose. Gabrielle will help you kickstart your healing journey and be there to guide you through releasing the blocks that are preventing you from up-leveling and manifesting your dream life. This conversation you guys!! I don't talk too much about spirituality and how it impacts your business often, but diving deeper into my consciousness has been such a big part of my growth as an entrepreneur. If you're feeling blocked by anything or are ready to get to the next level in your business, but aren't sure where to start, this episode is going to kick start that transformation for you. In this episode we talk about self-worth and tying success to money, how Gabby's rock bottom spiritual awakening brought her to living in her purpose and what it takes to get to the next level in your business.


DESIGNED TO SCALE:

Are you struggling to scale your design studio on your own? Have you been signing up for courses that don't teach anything new? Do you feel like you're overworked and drowning in client requests with no time to focus on growing your business or even reap the benefits of your success? In my signature mastermind, Designed to Scale, you get the customized guidance and high-level support you need to scale your design studio for more freedom, profit and growth. It is an initimate, high-level container for ambitious designers who are ready to grow their business and their life alongside like-minded entrepreneurs. I'm now enrolling for October 2023 and have 4 spots left, head to byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scale.

Aug 24, 202354:33
84. Vetting potential clients, Bad Client Red Flags and Breaking Up With Bad Clients

84. Vetting potential clients, Bad Client Red Flags and Breaking Up With Bad Clients

The phrase "ideal clients" is tossed around a lot in the business space, along with niching down, client red flags and other ways to identify and create boundaries around working with people you actually like. It's YOUR business and the projects you work on and the clients you work with should make you excited to sit at your desk every day, but unfortunately this is not always the case. Every so often you have those clients that are tough, rude and just plain hard to work with that have you questioning whether you're even good at what you do. I know this feeling all too well, but have honed in my expectations and made clearer boundaries, so that these types of clients are few and far between. In today's episode we're going over how to vet clients before you even onboard them, client red flags to watch out for and, if it comes down to it, how to eloquently break up with bad clients.


byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scale

byoliviaaustin.com/shop (code BTD10 for 10% off!)

Aug 09, 202333:32
INCOME REPORT: July 2023

INCOME REPORT: July 2023

Income report for July 2023 - If you're not measuring what you're doing each month, it makes it difficult to make insightful decisions in the business, know what to change or know what to focus on the next month. Each month I go over my business revenue for Design and Coaching, expenses in the business, KPI's and some wins/loses in hopes to help you in your business.


byoliviaaustin.com/shop

Aug 01, 202305:11
INCOME REPORT: Mar, Apr, May, Jun 2023

INCOME REPORT: Mar, Apr, May, Jun 2023

INCOME REPORT - If you're not measuring what you're doing each month, it makes it difficult to make insightful decisions in the business, know what to change or know what to focus on the next month. Each month I go over my business revenue for Design and Coaching, expenses in the business, KPI's and some wins/loses in hopes to help you in your business.

Jul 27, 202307:33
83. Maternity Leave Recap: 3 Mistakes I Made + What I'd Do Differently
Jul 27, 202321:14
82. Get Paid On Time and Know Your Revenue for Months With This Simple Payment Structure

82. Get Paid On Time and Know Your Revenue for Months With This Simple Payment Structure

Are you chasing clients down to pay their invoices every month? Do you feel like your finances are all over the place and it's hard to predict your monthly revenue? Or do you just want a simpler way to get paid every single month without any hassle. Over the years of running my Current, I've tried multiple different payment methods. Split payments when project phases are completed, monthly installments whatever date the client started working with us, the list goes on! Some of those worked, but most of them didn't because they weren't scalable and left a big question mark on what my revenue would look like for months ahead. In today's episode I'm sharing the super simple payment structure I have setup in my business that makes invoicing stress-free, no matter how many clients we have at once, and ensures we always get paid on time.


LINKS:

https://byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scale

https://www.instagram.com/byoliviaaustin


TRY CLICKUP FOR FREE → http://clickup.com?fpr=olivia31

Jul 19, 202333:18
81. Increase Your Profit Margins + Revenue by Streamlining Your Systems with Ellie Rogers

81. Increase Your Profit Margins + Revenue by Streamlining Your Systems with Ellie Rogers

I spent a majority of last year overhauling our entire internal processes. This was a huge project that I knew would change the way my business was run for a more streamlined client experience for our clients and team. Since implementing these new processes, profit margins have gone up, client projects get completed quicker and there is basically no overwhelm when it comes to big projects. To do this massive system setup, I worked with Ellie Rogers who is our guest today! After an international corporate career and realising that employed life wasn’t for Ellie- She set up an online business built around the simple concept of systems and strategies for entrepreneurs. Ellie is a lover of all thing business operations and works with clients both on her educational platform and her agency supporting them in setting up a business that works for them and not the other way around! I've personally had the opportunity to work with ellie and she is the genius behind bringing my crazy system and processes ideas to life with ClickUp and Dubsado. She is the best at what she does and in today's episode we are talking about:

  • Why having processes in your business, no matter how big or small you are is the key to success
  • How to audit your existing processes to determine where there are flaws and how you can update
  • How to achieve huge profit margins in your business and scale while staying lean.

I am so so excited about this episode, because you guys know I LOVE all things systems and really put a lot of emphasis on this when you want to grow your business. This is such a good episode (we are already planning pt. 2), so make sure you have your notes out. Let's get into it!

Jul 13, 202301:02:08
80. 15 Hour Work Weeks Mom Speed + Changing the Way We Work and Lead with Jill Wise

80. 15 Hour Work Weeks Mom Speed + Changing the Way We Work and Lead with Jill Wise

Not quite fitting into a single title, Jill Wise is a business and marketing problem solver. She pushes through the noise of the online world and the "rules" of what you're supposed to do, instead guiding her clients to show up authentically as they build, grow, and scale businesses that feel good to them. BUT, if you need a title for her, you can say she's a brand and marketing strategist, conversion copywriter and business coach. Jill has been a great friend and amazing client over the years and in today's episode we are diving into some of my favorite topics.

  • The importance of personal branding and why she decided to pivot her business to more lifestyle entrepreneur
  • What it looks like to work 15 hour work weeks, without sacrificing the growth of your business and productivity hacks for you to do the same
  • Managing your time, team and household as an entrepreneur and mother


itsjillwise.com

@itsjillwise



Jul 05, 202351:12
79. Navigating Slow Seasons in Business
Jun 28, 202330:01
78. Changing the Narrative on Motherhood + Business + Using Motherhood as a Portal For Wealth
May 31, 202301:00:52
77. How I Went From Charging $5k to $15k in 2 Years

77. How I Went From Charging $5k to $15k in 2 Years

Looking back at how I went from charging $5k to $15k, it was not a quick journey or easy journey. I think there's a common misconception that deciding to increase your pricing it's straightforward and happens overnight - this is absolutely not true. In this episode, I'm getting vulnerable and sharing the evolution of pricing our main offer, why we increased it and the 3 key elements you need to consider when increasing your prices.


byoliviaaustin.com/shop

@byoliviaaustin

May 17, 202325:15
76. What's Holding You Back From Becoming Your Next-level Self

76. What's Holding You Back From Becoming Your Next-level Self

Since the beginning of this year I've really dived into self-development and steppi ng into the next version of myself.. Approaching this year, I knew it was/is going to be a big year for me. Turning 30 and having a baby just felt like a really big deal and after feeling a little stagnant for months, I was ready for change. I've been reading/listening to some of the best high-performers and what they all have in common is talking about how it's what you do DAILY that will help you reach your goals and get you to your next level self. Whether your goals are in business, family, money, life, career - whatever they are and however big they are, it all comes down to your daily habits.In today's episode we're going to have a candid chat about what this looks like for entrepreneurs and 3 ways you can start to enhance your daily habits that will help you achieve your goals.


byoliviaaustin.com

@byoliviaaustin

May 03, 202320:45
75. Real Talk: My Birth Story, Learning to Slow Down + What's Working/Not Working on Maternity Leave

75. Real Talk: My Birth Story, Learning to Slow Down + What's Working/Not Working on Maternity Leave

A majority of my podcast episodes are business focused and trainings, but I wanted this episode to be different. The most meaningful conversations I have with you are ones when I share real bts and real lessons I’m learning in life. I’m in such a different season of life right now, one that is so precious and slow and hard and very very different than anything I’m used to. 


In just 4 short weeks my life and perspective has changed a lot and  want to share my experience in hopes to inspire and empower you.


As entrepreneurs we are constantly go go go. 


Comparing ourselves to others and told to hustle in order to reach our goals. And while Ill be the first one to say I love setting and achieving goals, when it comes down to it that is not what life is about.


Today I’m getting personal and sharing my birth story, things that are going well and not so well in my first month of maternity leave and some tips for slowing down if you’re someone who is constantly on the move. 


@byoliviaaustin

byoliviaaustin.com/shop

Apr 05, 202334:27
74. Guaranteed Monthly Recurring Revenue with Brooke Molinari

74. Guaranteed Monthly Recurring Revenue with Brooke Molinari

Monthly Recurring Revenue is something that's talked about often in entrepreneurship  because of the security it brings in an otherwise unstable space. While courses and memberships are great ways to bring in that type of income, as a creative service-provider it might not feel like that's not the route you want to take your business. Monthly recurring revenue is often interchanged with ongoing or retainer work in the design world and today I'm sitting down with a client and friend, Brooke Molinari of Nari Creative whose design studio is mostly based on retainer work and where she has more than 20 clients each month on this type of service.

Brooke Molinari has been leading her design studio since 2017 after working in corporate design for many years. She has found her niche working with brands and influencers, and with her talented team of designers, Nari Creative generates graphic designs across vast visual mediums such as newsletters, Instagram stories, blog collages, and more, adding up to hundreds of deliverables every week.

There is no one I know that is running a design studio at this high caliber, pushing out as many high-end deliverables for their clients, so I'm excited to dive into this episode as I know it will bring so much value to you.


naricreative.com

@naricreative

Mar 15, 202359:50
INCOME REPORT: FEBRUARY 2023

INCOME REPORT: FEBRUARY 2023

Income report for February 2023 - If you're not measuring what you're doing each month, it makes it difficult to make insightful decisions in the business, know what to change or know what to focus on the next month. Each month I go over my business revenue for Design and Coaching, expenses in the business, KPI's and some wins/loses in hopes to help you in your business.

Mar 01, 202311:25
73. Planning for Maternity Leave as a Female Business Owner

73. Planning for Maternity Leave as a Female Business Owner

When you've poured everything into building your business it's scary to think about what happens when you start a family. What does time off as a female business owner look like? Do I have to sacrifice business for motherhood? How will I make money? What if I lose everything I've built up to now? These are all questions we as female business owners have, and to be honest there is not a lot of information out there to have them answered.

For me, I was terrified that everything I've built over the last 5 years would be jeopardized when starting a family, but over the last year I've been able to plan, pivot and grow my business in a direction that will not only allow me to take a true maternity leave without my businesses take a huge hit, but also head into motherhood less overwhelmed with a business and that feels aligned with my new life.

In today's episode I'm talking about my business pivot and my personal mindset on entrepreneurship and motherhood and then we're diving deep into steps to start preparing your business for maternity leave, whether you're expecting now or in the future.

This is such an important conversation and I'm honored to have it with you. I hope you like this episode as much as I liked creating it!


byoliviaaustin.com/shop

Mar 01, 202356:12
72. 3 Elements Most Designers Are Missing in Their Design Process
Feb 15, 202323:44
71. The Secret to Your First $100k Year, Quarter or Month

71. The Secret to Your First $100k Year, Quarter or Month

Feb 01, 202327:20
INCOME REPORT: January 2023
Feb 01, 202318:17
70. Bulldozing Your Path + Authentic Thought-Leadership with Oh Sierra
Jan 18, 202301:12:18
69. 5 Ways to Recession Proof Your Creative Business in 2023

69. 5 Ways to Recession Proof Your Creative Business in 2023

I wish I was one of those people who bulk recorded podcast episodes, but I'm just not. I have them all outlined already, but I usually record that week and honestly it's because I like to make sure it's relevant and something I actually care about that will help YOU in your business. This week I'm so glad I didn't record this episode early because something really unexpected happened that aligns so perfectly with the theme of this episode.

Obv, the title of this episode is "How to Recession Proof Your Small Business", which we are going to dive into 5 ways for you to do that, but the underlying theme is how to prepare your small business for the unexpected.

If you've been in my circle even for a short time, you know my main mission is to help you build a sustainable, long-lasting business. I don't help with quick fixes or play into hustle culture, we are building businesses to LAST and that work with you and your lifestyle.

Shit happens. Life happens. Things rarely go according to plan. So if you can set yourself up and your business up in a way where it works with the ebbs and flows of life -- you will no doubt be successful and run a thriving business (which most small business owners don't get to).

So, in today's episode we're diving into personal story on my terrible first week of 2023 and the business lessons this taught me and then dive into 5 ways to Recession Proof Your Small Business (AKA run a thriving, profitable business no matter what happens!).

Jan 08, 202337:10
68. Bad Business Decisions I Made in 2022 and What You Can Learn From Them
Dec 21, 202237:08
67. Perfectionism, Burn Out + Mental Health as an Entrepreneur with Monica Denais

67. Perfectionism, Burn Out + Mental Health as an Entrepreneur with Monica Denais

Monica Denais is a Latinx Licensed Professional Counselor and Mindset Coach in Dallas, Texas.  Monica helps ambitious women and entrepreneurs overcome anxiety, perfectionism, and burnout so they can feel confident in both life and business. Monica has been featured in Women's Health Magazine, Verywell Mind, and Insider Magazine.  Monica is also the host of the Café with Monica podcast, where she brings amazing entrepreneurs to cover all things life, mental health, and entrepreneurship.


https://www.instagram.com/cafewithmonica/

Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/monicadenais

Dec 07, 202251:59
66. The Evolution of Booking High-End Clients
Nov 23, 202231:19
65. The Unfolding of My Business(es) over the year

65. The Unfolding of My Business(es) over the year

In this episode, I’m going to go through my beginning years to the toughest year of business and everything in between.

Nov 09, 202237:50
64. How I 2.5x'd Our Revenue in 1 Year
Dec 01, 202137:26
63. Attempting to Do it All, Setting Priorities, Life + Business Update
Nov 10, 202142:15
62. Luxury Client Experience

62. Luxury Client Experience

Increase client retention with a luxury Client Experience

May 28, 202125:32
61. Living Outside of the Box with Brittany Tucker
May 19, 202148:37