Strategy with Sally

Hosted by Sally Sparks-Cousins

Business Education

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Episodes

598

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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About the show

Strategy with Sally (formerly Straight Talk with Sally) Strategy with Sally is the podcast for women in business who are ready to stop winging it and start building a business that actually works — with clear strategy, smart systems, and the confidence to take imperfect action. Hosted by Sally Sparks-Cousins, business strategist, automation nerd, and co-founder of OmniSAM, this show dives into business strategy, personal branding, marketing, social media, mindset, automation, and scalable systems — without the fluff or hustle-for-hustle's-sake. Sally is on a mission to help women build businesses around their zone of genius (aka inner sparkle), reclaim their time, trust their numbers, and create sustainable success while balancing business, family, lifestyle, and mindset. Each week, you'll find: ◉ Practical business strategy you can actually implement ◉ Real conversations about growth, confidence, and leadership ◉ Simple systems and automation insights for small business owners ◉ Thought-provoking lessons on what it really takes to be a business owner and thought leader If you're ready to build a business on your terms, back yourself, and get out of overthinking and into action — you're in the right place. It's time to get sh*t done — strategically. ✨

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 20, 2026Episode 57411 min

#606: RERUN EPISODE: When Your Offer Is Clear, Selling Gets Easier

This is a rerun episode of Strategy with Sally , revisiting an important conversation about offer clarity, alignment, and why selling can feel so much easier when your message simply makes sense. In this episode, Sally explores a simple but powerful experiment that could reveal more about your business than you expect. The next time someone asks, "What do you do?" , pay attention to what happens in your body. Do you feel calm, clear, and confident—or do you immediately start scrambling for the right words, over-explaining what you offer, or trying to justify why someone should work with you? Sally explains why that internal scramble may not actually be a confidence problem . It could be a clarity problem . When your offer is blurry, selling naturally creates friction. And no amount of confidence can completely fix an offer that isn't aligned. In this episode, Sally breaks down how to refine your offer by getting clear on: Who your offer is for The one clear problem it solves The specific shift or outcome it creates When those three things are clear, your message becomes easier to communicate, your audience can recognise whether it's for them, and selling starts to feel much more natural. Because when your offer is aligned, you don't have to convince people—it simply makes sense. If you're finding yourself over-explaining your offer, struggling to describe what you do, or feeling like selling takes far more effort than it should, this rerun is your invitation to stop pushing harder and start getting clearer. Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

August 18, 2026Episode 57355 min

#605: Fix Your Lead Pipeline: How to Stop Enquiries Falling Through the Cracks

Are Your Leads Slipping Through the Cracks Before They Become Clients? You might not need more leads — you might just need a clearer way to manage the enquiries you already have. In this Straight Talk with Sally episode, we're talking about your lead pipeline and how to stop warm opportunities from getting lost in inboxes, DMs, spreadsheets, notes, and memory. If you've ever forgotten to follow up, lost track of who needs a reply, or felt unsure where a lead is up to, this session will help you bring more clarity and consistency to your follow-up systems. In this episode, we'll cover: Where enquiries usually get lost How to spot the leaks in your current lead pipeline What each pipeline stage is actually for How to manage new leads, no-shows, proposals, decision pending, payment pending, and nurture How to create simple follow-up actions so leads keep moving The one pipeline stage you should clean up first this week This episode is for business owners, coaches, consultants, creatives, and service-based business owners who want better business systems, clearer workflows and processes, and a more consistent way to manage opportunities. You don't need a complicated sales process. You need a simple lead pipeline that helps you see who needs attention, what needs to happen next, and how to stop enquiries falling through the cracks. Ready to simplify your lead management? 👉 Explore OmniSAM or book a demo: https://omnisam.com.au 👉 Download the workbook or resource for this episode: https://sparklewithsally.com/605 🎥 Stay up to date with live streams: Subscribe on YouTube and turn on notifications so you never miss a session. Remember: Your leads don't need more chasing. They need a clear next step.

August 17, 2026Episode 5727 min

#604: Quick Follow-Up Fixes 7/7: How to Follow Up Without Feeling Salesy

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-12" data-turn-id-container= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-12" data-testid= "conversation-turn-88" data-turn="assistant"> Follow-up doesn't have to feel pushy, sleazy, or uncomfortable. In this episode of Follow-Up Quick Tips , Sally explains why effective follow-up is really about helping people make an informed decision—not pressuring them into buying. You'll learn how to use honest, useful questions that give people clarity, invite a genuine response, and make it easier for them to decide whether moving forward is right for them. Your GSD action is to take one of your existing follow-up messages and rewrite it so it feels supportive rather than sales-driven. Remove the fake urgency and focus instead on being useful, clear, and honest. Because good follow-up isn't about chasing the sale—it's about giving people the information and support they need to make the right decision. Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

August 14, 2026Episode 5716 min

#603: Quick Follow-Up Fixes 6/7: The Follow-Up Task Most Businesses Forget

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-9" data-turn-id-container= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-9" data-testid= "conversation-turn-84" data-turn="assistant"> *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-11" data-turn-id-container= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-11" data-testid= "conversation-turn-86" data-turn="assistant"> New leads aren't the only people who deserve your follow-up. In this episode of Follow-Up Quick Tips , Sally highlights one of the most overlooked opportunities in business: past clients. These are people who already know you, trust you, and may have a new problem you can help them solve. Learn how simple, genuine conversations can reopen relationships without turning your follow-up into a hard sell. Your GSD action is simple: choose five past clients and send each of them a genuine, relevant message to restart the conversation. Whether you ask how they're going, share something that made you think of them, ask what they're currently working on, or request a review or referral, the goal is simply to reconnect. No "just checking in," no awkward sales pitch—just start a real conversation. Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

August 11, 2026Episode 57050 min

#602: RERUN EPISODE: Give Your Health the Promotion It Deserves with Allyson Brown

Strategy with Sally is revisiting one of our most powerful conversations—this time with Allyson Brown , Director of Everheal, creator of the 4-Step LIFE Formula Program , and a PhD-trained analytical researcher who transformed her own life after overcoming Multiple Sclerosis. Joined by co-host Ash, Customer Success Manager , Sally sits down with Allyson to explore the deeply personal journey that led her from navigating her own health challenges to helping others take back control of their wellbeing. Allyson shares how her experience inspired her to help people break free from fatigue, brain fog, stubborn weight gain, inflammation, and autoimmune challenges —and why so many of us continue to put our health at the bottom of the priority list. In this episode, you'll discover: The warning signs that your body may be asking for a reset Why energy, inflammation, diet, mindset, and daily habits are all connected Practical ways to start prioritising your health without feeling overwhelmed Common misconceptions about health and wellness The influences and experiences that shaped Allyson's approach How small, sustainable lifestyle changes can create meaningful results What Allyson might be doing today if she hadn't pursued a career in health And, of course, we wrap things up with a fun Fast Talk round, where Allyson reveals her personal health and lifestyle preferences. Whether you're hearing this conversation for the first time or revisiting it, this episode is an important reminder: Your health deserves a promotion. If you've been putting your wellbeing on the back burner, let this conversation be your reminder—and your roadmap—to start making yourself a priority. Connect with Allyson & Everheal Everheal Website: www.everheal.com.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/everheal.com.au/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/everheal_/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/allyson-brown-everheal/ 🎁 Special Offer: Want to take the next step? Allyson is offering a Free Health Strategy Session for anyone who wants to talk through their health concerns and explore practical next steps for feeling better ASAP. Stay Connected & Get Exclusive Access Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow Sally on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch, Subscribe & Catch More Episodes OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

August 10, 2026Episode 5697 min

#601: Quick Follow-Up Fixes 5/7: How Often Should You Follow Up

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-9" data-turn-id-container= "request-69d5b709-e004-8322-a9df-edf20e813ecc-9" data-testid= "conversation-turn-84" data-turn="assistant"> How often should you follow up without becoming the person who feels like they're haunting someone's inbox? In this episode of Follow-Up Quick Tips , Sally breaks down why one follow-up is rarely enough and shares practical follow-up rhythms for both new leads and people who have already shown interest. She also explains the ATC (Attempt to Contact) approach and why your follow-ups should be useful, purposeful, and slightly different each time. You'll learn how to create a simple three-message follow-up rhythm: reconnect after the initial conversation, provide something genuinely helpful, and then close the loop respectfully if you still haven't heard back. The key isn't sending more messages—it's being consistent and making every message count. Your GSD action is to create your own simple three-message follow-up sequence so you always know what to send and when. Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

August 6, 2026Episode 5681 hr 6 min

#600: 600 Episodes CELEBRATION: A Candid Conversation

How do you stay consistent long enough to publish 600 podcast episodes ? In this special milestone episode of Strategy with Sally , Sally Sparks-Cousins and her team pull back the curtain on the systems, workflows, and habits that have helped them consistently create content for over seven years. From planning episodes and managing guests to editing, repurposing content, and building repeatable business systems, this candid conversation is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, coaches, and business owners who want to create content that lasts. Whether you're thinking about starting a podcast, improving your content strategy, or building systems that support business growth, you'll walk away with actionable tips to help you stay consistent without relying on motivation alone. In this episode: How Strategy with Sally reached 600 episodes The behind-the-scenes podcast workflow Systems that make content creation easier Podcast planning and guest management tips How to stay consistent in business and marketing Lessons learned from seven years of podcasting Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

August 4, 2026Episode 56739 min

#599: How to Keep Going When Imposter Syndrome Gets Loud

July 31, 2026Episode 5666 min

#598: Quick Follow-Up Fixes 4/7: The Three Follow-Ups Every Business Needs

Not every business needs a complicated follow-up system—but every business does need the right follow-ups happening consistently. In this episode of Follow-Up Quick Tips , Sally shares the three essential follow-up stages every business should have in place: inquiry follow-ups, appointment follow-ups, and proposal or quote follow-ups, along with why consistency matters more than complexity. Learn how to create a simple follow-up process by deciding when each follow-up happens, who owns it, what the message says, and what to do if there's no response. Your quick action is to identify which of these three follow-up systems is least consistent in your business and improve that one first to stop opportunities slipping through the cracks. Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins

July 30, 2026Episode 5656 min

#597: Quick Follow-Up Fixes 3/7: What to Say When Someone Goes Quiet

When a lead suddenly stops responding, it's easy to assume they're no longer interested—but that's not always the case. In this episode of Follow-Up Quick Tips , Sally shares how to follow up with quiet leads in a way that feels helpful, respectful, and easy to respond to, without sounding pushy or desperate. Learn simple follow-up messages that encourage honest replies, give people permission to say "not yet" or "no," and help you move conversations forward with confidence. Your quick action is to reach out to one quiet lead using a clear, helpful message that makes the next step easy—because clarity is always better than wondering. Join the Private OmniSAM Community: omnisam.com.au/gsdgroup Facebook Group: gsdfb.omnisam.com.au Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/sallysparkscousins Watch the Live Stream & Subscribe for More Updates: OmniSAM YouTube: youtube.com/@omnisamsoftware Sally Sparks-Cousins YouTube: youtube.com/@sallysparkscousins