Employee To Boss: Entrepreneurship, Side Hustles, and Business Growth Tips from Experts

Hosted by Hayleigh Hayhurst, Podcast Producer & Strategist

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Episodes

178

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to the Employee To Boss podcast! Employee To Boss is for everyone with an entrepreneurial spirit… For those wanting to start their business, for those wanting to go all-in on their side hustle, for those wanting to start a side hustle… and for those who are business curious! Join podcast producer Hayleigh Hayhurst as she guides you through all things business. She is joined by guests from all different industries, at all different points of business to share their experiences, tips, and advice. To have a successful business, you need to know a thing or two about different industries. The reason behind this? It is called info-sponging aka learning and absorbing new information about different industries. Starting a business can be very lonely, and confusing! Each episode will end with three actionable tips for you to follow to get started with your business today! Presented by Espresso Podcast Production, a full-service podcast production company specializing in editing, marketing, and strategy. Grab your coffee and join us!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 18, 202634 min

174. What Makes a Great Business Coach? Building Trust, Systems & Results | Malcolm Reid Jr.

Anyone can call themselves a coach, but what actually makes someone worth hiring? In this episode, I sit down with entrepreneur, business strategist, and Profit Advisor founder Malcolm Reid Jr. to unpack the trust crisis in the coaching industry. After building multiple seven-figure businesses and helping business owners uncover hidden revenue opportunities, Malcolm shares what truly separates great coaches from everyone else. We dive into why trust has become the biggest currency in business, the systems every coach needs to scale sustainably, how AI is changing the industry, and why getting results, not going viral, is the foundation of long-term success. Free Resource Malcolm is giving listeners a free copy of his book, Massive Action, where he shares 22 no- and low-cost strategies to uncover hidden revenue opportunities, increase profitability, and grow your business without relying on expensive marketing tactics. Download your free copy at: 100KLeak.com Connect with Malcolm: https://proglobalba.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/proglobalexpert/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44 Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠ https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: ⁠ https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠ YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction ⁠ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

July 28, 202636 min

173. How Travel Can Make You a Better Entrepreneur with Chericka Johnson, Love + Leisure

What if entrepreneurship could give you the freedom to explore the world... while helping others create unforgettable experiences? In this episode, I sit down with travel advisor, entrepreneur, and founder of Love & Leisure Travel, Chericka, to talk about her journey from climbing the corporate ladder to building a business centered around purpose, travel, and meaningful connection. We dive into what it really takes to build a successful travel business, why rest fuels creativity, the power of niching down, and how relationships—not algorithms—continue to shape incredible client experiences. Chericka also shares her passion for helping people create lifelong memories through travel, the lessons she's learned from entrepreneurship, and why community is more important now than ever. Wha:t You'll Learn Why travel is one of the best investments you can make. Chericka shares how exploring new places expands your perspective, fuels creativity, and creates memories that last far longer than material possessions. The truth about building a travel business. Behind the beautiful destinations is a business built on expertise, systems, relationships, and years of industry knowledge—not simply booking vacations online. How niching down creates bigger opportunities. Rather than trying to serve everyone, Chericka explains why specializing in destination weddings, group travel, and romance travel has helped her stand out in a competitive industry. Why relationships still matter in an AI world. AI can be an incredible tool, but nothing replaces having an experienced advisor who knows the destinations, has trusted industry connections, and can advocate for you when things don't go according to plan. The entrepreneurial lesson every business owner needs to hear. From creating repeatable systems to prioritizing client experience and referrals, Chericka shares the foundational habits that help businesses grow sustainably. Why rest isn't a luxury—it's part of your strategy. Entrepreneurship often glorifies hustle, but Chericka explains why creating space to slow down, reflect, and recharge ultimately leads to greater creativity, better leadership, and a stronger business. Connect with Chericka: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loveandleisuretravel/ Website: https://www.loveleisuretravel.com/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44 Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: ⁠ https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠ YouTube: ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction ⁠ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠ https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

July 14, 202636 min

172. How Molly Nutt Built, Scaled & Sold a Successful Agency

Have you ever wondered if you're building a business that actually gives you more freedom... or just another full-time job? In this episode, I sit down with agency owner, entrepreneur, and mentor Molly Nutt to talk about what it really takes to build a scalable business. From growing an agency and hiring a team to selling a successful business, Molly shares the lessons she learned about leadership, delegation, systems, profitability, and why understanding your numbers matters more than chasing growth. We also dive into how AI is changing entrepreneurship, the biggest hiring mistakes business owners make, and how to know when it's actually time to scale. What You'll Learn: Why freedom doesn't automatically come with entrepreneurship. Molly shares the reality of going from corporate life to freelancing—and why building a business without systems can leave you working more than ever. The hiring mindset that saves businesses from costly mistakes. Learn why hiring from "overflow" instead of desperation creates stronger teams, healthier finances, and sustainable growth. How to build a business that's valuable beyond you. From reducing founder dependency to creating repeatable systems, Molly explains what made her agency sellable—and what every service provider should be thinking about early on. Why knowing your numbers changes every business decision. Growth without understanding profit margins, expenses, and cash flow can quickly become dangerous. Molly shares the financial metrics every entrepreneur should be tracking. How AI is making entrepreneurship more accessible than ever. Instead of replacing business owners, AI can become the mentor, operations assistant, and problem-solving partner that helps you move faster and make smarter decisions. Want help hiring your first team member? Molly has created a free Hiring Starter Pack filled with templates, AI prompts, job posting examples, offer letters, and practical guidance to help you confidently make your first hire. If you're preparing to grow your business and build a team, this is the perfect place to start. Connect with Molly: Website: https://acorndigitalstrategynw.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/molly.nutt/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Apply to work with us: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction ⁠ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

July 7, 202631 min

171. Cycle Syncing for Entrepreneurs: Work With Your Body, Not Against It | Carly Schade

Maybe the reason you've been feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or "off" isn't because you're doing something wrong, but because you've been following advice that was never designed for your body? In this episode, I sit down with wellness coach and registered dietitian Carly Schade to talk about cycle syncing beyond the social media trends. We unpack how understanding your menstrual cycle can help you build a business, manage your energy, improve your health, and reconnect with your intuition. Carly shares how burnout led her to leave her dream job, why she believes women have been taught to ignore their biology, and the simple shifts that can completely change the way you approach work and wellness. What You'll Learn: Why burnout can become your greatest turning point. Carly shares how walking away from her corporate career led her back to her true passion—and ultimately the business she was meant to build. What cycle syncing actually means (and what most people get wrong). Forget rigid rules and complicated tracking. Carly explains her practical approach that's rooted in listening to your body instead of following someone else's formula. How to use your cycle to work smarter in business. Learn how different phases of your cycle can influence creativity, communication, planning, decision-making, and energy—and how scheduling around them can reduce burnout. The missing piece most women never track. Recording your cycle is only half the equation. Carly explains why paying attention to how you feel each day unlocks the patterns that can transform your health and productivity. How trusting your body builds confidence in business. The conversation goes beyond hormones into intuition, decision-making, and why learning to trust yourself may be one of the greatest entrepreneurial skills you can develop. Want to learn more about cycle syncing? Carly's group program, In Sync, is designed to help women better understand their hormones, align their health with their menstrual cycle, and work with their bodies instead of against them. Through education, practical tools, and personalized guidance, you'll learn how to support your energy, nutrition, workouts, and lifestyle in a way that feels sustainable. https://carlyschade.kit.com/products/in-sync?promo=EARLYBIRD Connect with Carly: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlyschade/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/51sHtEKrYGucKdwfOfRoC4?si=d92ec468dfbe4fb9 Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44 Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction ⁠ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

June 30, 202640 min

170. Stop Explaining Your Process. Start Selling the Result. | Daria Astanaeva

How do you optimize your Instagram for sales in 2026 without sounding like everyone else? I sat down with Daria, founder of a personal branding and sales agency, to talk about what's actually working on social media right now. Daria moved from Russia to Canada, spent years battling imposter syndrome before she ever posted consistently, and now helps service providers and founders launch and sell digital offers in 90 days. We went deep on brand positioning, why "dumbing it down" is the smartest thing you can do, and the real timeline for seeing results from your content. What You'll Learn Why your Instagram bio might be costing you clients. Daria breaks down the exact elements your profile needs — clear positioning within seven seconds, optimized highlights, and pinned posts that build authority before anyone even DMs you. The brand positioning mistake almost everyone makes. Trying to fit your full personality into a two-sentence bio doesn't work. Daria explains why simple, specific language beats clever or "empowering" language every time. Sell the result, not the process. I loved this reframe — nobody wants to hear about your weekly call structure. They want to know what their life looks like after working with you. The three-to-six month rule. Daria and I both share why content takes months to convert, why you'll rarely see the moment it actually worked, and why consistency matters more than instant feedback. Building an email list regardless of follower count. Why your list might be your most underrated business asset, no matter where you're starting from. Connect with Daria: https://www.instagram.com/dariaast/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Apply to work with us: https://hello.dubsado.com/public/form/view/6521a4cc8fdeed003a859a44 Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction ⁠ Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

June 2, 202641 min

169. Balancing Ambition, Dating, and Feminine Energy with Natalia Heart

You're ambitious, you're building something incredible, and you're working all day every day to make it happen. But what about love? What about creating space for a partner while still showing up powerfully in your business? Women's dating and relationship expert Natalia returns to Employee to Boss to share how ambitious women can balance masculine energy in business with feminine energy in relationships—and why understanding both is the key to having it all. With all of her current clients now in relationships after leaving dating apps, and three recent engagements, Natalia's approach is clearly working. This conversation will challenge what you think you know about success, love, and what it means to be a powerful woman who also wants partnership. In This Episode: Why all of Natalia's current clients have left dating apps and are now in relationships—and what that teaches us about transformation The real qualifications needed to be a love coach (hint: it's way more than just getting married yourself) Why you have BOTH masculine and feminine energy—and how to use each strategically in business vs. relationships Why only 10% of women doing the work can change the entire paradigm of relationships Why your beliefs become your reality—and how to cultivate the ones that serve your vision Listen to ep 50 with Natalia: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/employee-to-boss-entrepreneurship-side-hustles-and/id1598027167?i=1000587222147 Connect with Natalia: https://www.instagram.com/nataliaheartcoaching/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: http://espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

May 26, 202633 min

168. Building Systems That Scale: AI and Automation | Kathleen, The Virtual Spell

What if the thing you feared most became your greatest asset? In this episode, I'm chatting with Kathleen, an Online Business Manager and AI consultant who had a complete breakdown when AI emerged—convinced it would end her career. Now? She's the expert helping business owners like us streamline operations and embrace automation. Kathleen shares her honest journey from corporate burnout to building a thriving business, starting with photography, pivoting to VA work during COVID, and eventually finding her zone of genius in systems and AI consulting. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by tech tools or unsure where to start with AI, this conversation is your permission slip to start small. What we cover: Why Kathleen thought AI would take her job—and how she turned fear into expertise The truth: AI won't replace you, but not learning it might hold you back How to start with AI without the overwhelm (one thing at a time) ChatGPT vs. Claude vs. Kassidy.AI—which to use and when The most common mistakes people make with AI in business Essential systems every business needs: lead management, response process, and onboarding Three actionable steps you can take today Connect with Kathleen: https://linktr.ee/thevirtualspell Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: http://espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

April 29, 202625 min

167. Why Your Business Is Draining You (And What to Do About It) with Rena Duell, One Team Partners

If you’ve ever felt like your business is everything—your identity, your time, your mental space—this episode is going to hit home. In this conversation, I’m joined by Rena Duell, a business coach at One Team Partners, who spent 25 years running her own business before hitting a breaking point that forced her to completely step away. We talk about what burnout actually looks like (hint: it’s not just being tired), why so many entrepreneurs don’t even realize it’s happening, and what it really takes to rebuild your business in a way that supports your life—not consumes it. This is one of those episodes that will make you pause and rethink how you’re operating day-to-day. In this episode, we cover: What burnout actually looks like (and how it can show up physically) Why hustle culture feels normal—but isn’t sustainable How to separate your identity from your business The role of community when you’re building alone How to structure your workday around your energy (not just your calendar) Decision fatigue—and how to stop letting it drain you The truth behind “having it all” as an entrepreneur Why you are the ceiling of your business growth Rena is offering listeners a free month inside her coaching community Big Talk (normally $20/month), plus a free 1:1 coaching call. Email: BigTalk@OneTeamPartners.com and mention Employee to Boss to get access. You can also connect with her on LinkedIn or learn more at OneTeamPartners.com. Connect with Rena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rena-duell/ Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: ⁠https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/⁠checklist⁠ Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your network.

April 14, 202632 min

166. Creating Your Signature Talk & Building Influence as an Introvert with Stephanie Thoma

Ever wondered how introverts can become powerful speakers and thought leaders? International speaker Stephanie Thoma (250+ events, featured in Forbes) shares her journey from employee to boss and the exact framework she uses with clients to build calm authority. In This Episode: Stephanie's path from tech layoff to qualitative researcher to international speaker The 4-part "Connect with Confidence" Framework: Calm → Confidence → Connection → Impact Why having ONE signature talk builds more authority than customizing every time How to know if you're ready to be a podcast guest vs. host your own show Box breathing technique for instant calm before speaking or networking The concept of "conversational sponges" for genuine connection How Stephanie's book Confident Introvert came from her validated workshop I met Stephanie through The Entreprenista League, a business and community membership where founders like you can access top-tier resources, media opportunities, and a community that will be there to support you as you grow your business. Join here: https://refer.entreprenista.com/2bvagj2con4u Connect with Stephanie: https://stephaniethoma.com Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ LinkedIn: Hayleigh Hayhurst TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it truly helps more entrepreneurs find the show!

April 7, 202617 min

165. Q1 Business Updates: Live Podcast Event in the PNW & What's Next for Espresso Podcast Production

t's been a while since I've dropped a solo episode here on Employee to Boss! Between managing two podcasts and producing 10 episodes a month, things have been busy—but in the best way. As we close out Q1 and step into Q2, I wanted to pull back the curtain and share what's been happening behind the scenes at Espresso Podcast Production. This episode is a peek into how quickly things can shift in business—from hiring decisions to launching new ventures and restructuring offers based on what's actually selling. If you've ever wondered what it's like to navigate growth, pivot when needed, and invest in your vision without expecting immediate returns, this conversation is for you. In this episode: The three-month sales cycle and how my Europe trip set me up for Q1 success Hiring a new behind-the-scenes team member to support growth without disrupting client experience Launching Podcasters NW , a live networking event for podcasters in the Pacific Northwest (and why I'm investing in connection over profit) Celebrating one year in Seattle Executive Association and how being "the dumbest person in the room" has fueled my growth The surprising success of my one-off strategy sessions (and why they're outselling my core offers right now) My evergreen webinar on using your podcast to build your brand in 2026 Free Webinar: How to Use Your Podcast to Build Your Brand in 2026: https://espressopodcastproduction.kit.com/thepodcasteffect Resources Mentioned: Join Podcasters NW (Seattle/PNW area): DM me "EVENT" on Instagram @espressopodcastproduction Seattle Executive Association: https://www.seattleexecs.org Logo & Branding: Taylor Hanson, Hanson Designs Event Planning Support: Whitney Adams-Moore, Electric Butter Marketing Connect with me, Hayleigh Hayhurst: Steal my Podcast Launch Checklist for free: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/checklist Website: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EspressoPodcastProduction Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/espressopodcastproduction/ LinkedIn: Hayleigh Hayhurst TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@espressopodproduction Music: John Kiernan. www.johnkiernanmusic.com Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com/ Join the Conversation: What did you think of this episode? Share your thoughts and key takeaways with me on social media using the hashtag #EmployeeToBoss. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it truly helps more entrepreneurs find the show!