Balanced Insights

Hosted by Touche Financial Solutions

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Mar 2025

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About the show

Check in with Touché every Friday as CEO Sierra Thomas gives her take on various topics around Business and Finance.

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26 recent

March 3, 2025Episode 223 min

Expression and Self-discovery feat. Maggi Colwell

In this episode of Balanced Insights, we welcome Maggie Colwell, a board-certified art therapist and the founder of Chiron Art Therapy. Maggie shares her inspiring journey from a 15-year career in commercial insurance to pursuing her passion for art therapy. She discusses how creative expression can support mental health, especially in processing trauma, and how art therapy provides a nonverbal way for individuals to explore emotions, heal past wounds, and build resilience. We also dive into financial therapy, breaking down money taboos and understanding our emotional connections to finances—along with Jungian influences, dream analysis, and the power of artistic movement in emotional healing. Maggie’s work demonstrates that you don’t need to be an artist to benefit from art therapy. It’s all about expression and self-discovery. Tune in for an insightful conversation about redefining yourself, embracing creativity, and using art for healing and transformation.Learn mote about Maggi's services at https://columbusarttherapy.com/.

February 5, 2025Episode 123 min

Creating a Better World for the Next Generation feat. Chris Hearn

In this episode of Balanced Insights, we welcome Chris Hearn, a visionary strategist who seamlessly blends technology, community, and creativity in his work. From business strategy to nonprofit consulting and augmented reality, Christopher shares how he stays true to his purpose while operating in multiple spaces.At the heart of his mission? Creating a better world for the next generation. Christopher discusses the importance of mentorship, bridging generational gaps, and ensuring that today’s efforts lead to a brighter future for kids. He also emphasizes the role of faith in his daily routine, prioritizing quiet time with God to stay centered and aligned with his purpose.Beyond his professional work, Christopher values family time and staying present in the moment. He shares his philosophy on balancing passion with personal priorities, ensuring that his pursuits never compromise what truly matters.Want to connect with Christopher? Follow him on Instagram @ceeztheworld or reach out via email at chrisrhearn@gmail.com.

November 1, 2024Episode 818 min

Holiday Insights with a Dash of Social

In this episode of Balanced Insights, CEO Sierra Thomas reflects on the season of gratitude and intentionality as we enter November. She highlights the power of community, both in business and personal life, especially with major events like the upcoming U.S. presidential election and Thanksgiving around the corner. Sierra dives into the latest financial news, discussing how U.S. consumers are anticipated to spend generously this holiday season, with spending projected to exceed last year’s averages. She also explores a shift in consumer behavior, as more Americans plan to support small businesses on Black Friday, inspired by a GoDaddy survey showing a strong preference for unique, personalized shopping experiences over traditional big-box deals. The episode's Money Matters segment is packed with valuable insights for business owners preparing for the holiday season. Sierra shares five critical tips to safeguard finances, from enhancing cybersecurity to managing seasonal hires responsibly. In the spirit of growth and connection, she also encourages listeners to broaden their social circles, emphasizing the value of networking beyond familiar groups for fresh perspectives and potential new clients. Whether it’s safeguarding your business or enriching your personal relationships, this episode invites listeners to close out the year with intention and purpose.

October 28, 2024Episode 824 min

Shedding the Old, Embracing the New

In this episode of Balance Insights, Sierra wraps up October by reflecting on key themes for finishing the year strong. She emphasizes the importance of shedding habits and commitments that no longer serve us, aligning with the power of letting go. Drawing from personal insights, she compares shedding to growth, noting that clearing the old makes room for new opportunities. Sierra encourages listeners to reassess their goals regularly and stay adaptable to meet current priorities, especially with the end of the year fast approaching.The episode covers practical strategies for business owners to prepare for the busy holiday season. Sierra highlights a U.S. Chamber article that suggests hiring seasonal workers early, planning social media campaigns, auditing inventory, and optimizing eCommerce channels for smooth holiday operations. She talks about the significance of proactive planning and leveraging technology, such as AI, to stay competitive. Wrapping up, Sierra invites listeners to share their morning routines and holiday preparations while teasing exciting November topics on the horizon.

October 18, 2024Episode 631 min

Adapt, Reflect, and Thrive: Year-End Strategies for Business and Life

In this episode of Balanced Insights, Sierra Thomas, CEO of Touché Financial Solutions, reflects on her challenging week managing client deadlines and tax extension requests. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability and recalibration in both personal and business life to finish the year strong. Sierra offers valuable insights, discussing strategic decision-making inspired by successful entrepreneurs like Ray Dalio, Bill Gates, and Warren Buffett. She also delves into cash flow management strategies, including refining payment terms, automating invoicing, and considering leasing over purchasing to sustain operations. Additionally, she explores an article highlighting the struggles of Black women in nonprofit leadership and offers advice on self-advocacy and community support. The episode concludes with a Q&A segment revealing that social media remains the most effective marketing tool, although word-of-mouth still reigns for service-based industries. Tune in next week for more financial insights and practical tips.

October 12, 2024Episode 536 min

Mental Health and Strategies to Balance it All

In this episode of Balance Insights, Sierra continues her October series focused on end-of-year preparation. She emphasizes the importance of proactive planning in business and personal life, advocating for a balance between professional ambitions and individual well-being. Sierra shares her practices, like taking time off in December for rejuvenation. She stresses the need to set boundaries and prioritize self-care now rather than waiting for New Year's resolutions. The episode also highlights World Mental Health Day, discussing its theme of mental health at work and its significance for entrepreneurs. Sierra reviews tips for reducing stress, such as mindfulness, physical activity, and effective time management. She stresses the importance of authenticity in business and the power of saying no to maintain alignment with personal values. The episode features an interview with Tonnisha J. English-Amamoo, who shares insights on year-end planning and assessing business goals. Sierra wraps up by inviting listeners to engage and connect through social media.

October 5, 2024Episode 426 min

Q4: Preparing for the Finish Line & End-of-Year Strategies

In this episode of Balanced Insights, Sierra Thomas dives into the critical importance of Q4 for businesses and individuals alike. As the year's final quarter begins, she offers actionable strategies for companies to prepare for a strong year-end finish. Sierra also highlights personal planning tips for goal-setting and financial readiness as 2024 comes to a close. Plus, get up-to-date tax extension reminders and tips for managing payments to avoid costly penalties. Tune in for practical advice on making the most of Q4, leveraging AI to enhance customer experiences and insights on the ongoing debate about remote work versus returning to the office. Whether you’re looking to refine your strategy for 2024 or planning a fresh start in 2025, this episode has something for everyone!

September 21, 2024Episode 422 min

The Power of Grace in Business and Life

In this episode of Balanced Insights, Sierra Thomas, CEO of Touché Financial Solutions, reflects on the importance of extending grace in both business and personal life as she celebrates the company's ninth anniversary. After a hectic week filled with client meetings, extended tax preparations, and teaching engagements, Sierra shares how the concept of grace has become a cornerstone of her leadership philosophy.She explores how giving grace to clients builds trust and strengthens relationships, especially when juggling expectations and deadlines. In a world driven by constant demand for success, Sierra emphasizes the value of patience, understanding, and compassion as powerful tools to create meaningful connections. As she heads into the weekend, she invites listeners to reflect on their journey, embrace the lessons learned, and extend grace to themselves and others.

September 13, 2024Episode 225 min

Balanced Insights: Building Resilience

In this episode of Balance Insights, Sierra Thomas, CEO of Touché Financial Solutions, delves into the theme of resilience, discussing its critical role in both business and personal life. She emphasizes how resilience helps navigate challenges. Sierra also explores the importance of income diversification, using Selena Gomez's success with Rare Beauty as an example of how branching into new industries can protect against market volatility and create additional revenue streams.Additionally, Sierra highlights how companies are leveraging the social media expertise of Gen Z employees to enhance brand visibility, drawing lessons from an article on corporate influence. She also discusses leadership and self-care, inspired by an interview with Cameron Batten, CCO of Volkswagen Group, stressing the need for cultural sensitivity and proactive decision-making.We share another clip from our Mastering Money Matters segment with Chanda Davis, our guest. Listeners can catch the entire conversation with Chanda and Sierra on the Touche Financial Solutions' YouTube channel.

September 6, 2024Episode 133 min

Balanced Insights: Customer Appreciation and Celebrating Nine Years

In this episode of "Balanced Insights," Sierra Thomas, CEO of Touché Financial Solutions, kicks off the new season with a reflection on change and growth, both personally and professionally. As Touché celebrates its nine-year anniversary, Sierra emphasizes the importance of embracing new beginnings and committing to self-care, especially as we transition into the fall season. Chanda Davis, CEO of Hunter Brand Consulting, joins Sierra to reflect on her role as the Marketing Manager at Touché Financial Solutions. The pair discusses key strategies for business owners, including the importance of customer appreciation, adapting to changing consumer behaviors, and staying on top of business trends for 2024. Sierra also highlights the significance of having a solid support system in entrepreneurship, sharing her transition from corporate life to full-time business ownership. The episode wraps up with a call to listeners to engage with the podcast, share their goals for the new season, and continue the growth journey together.