143. Freelancer vs. CEO Energy: Which One Are You Running Your Business With?

*Free Workbook: The Aligned Offer Suite Builder: https://designedto-scale.com/aligned-offer-suite-workbookIn this episode, I’m breaking down the invisible force that determines whether you attract high-paying, respectful clients—or stay stuck on the client hamster wheel: your energy. We’ll unpack the red flags of “freelancer mode” (even at premium pricing), what true CEO energy looks like for creative entrepreneurs, and how to start embodying it immediately—even if it feels uncomfortable at first.https://designedto-scale.com/

FREE WORKBOOK! The Aligned Offer Suite Builder - get it herehttps://designedto-scale.com/aligned-offer-suite-workbookIf you’ve ever felt burnt out, overwhelmed by custom quotes, or ghosted by your dream clients—this episode is your wake-up call. I’m breaking down the one simple, powerful shift that doubled my design studio’s revenue without taking on more clients. Inside, I share how streamlining your offer suite isn’t just about simplicity—it’s about positioning yourself as the expert, attracting aligned, high-paying clients, and finally getting off the feast-or-famine hamster wheel. Plus, I walk you through how to start building your own strategic offer suite today with a free workbook to guide the process. This is the clarity you’ve been craving.https://designedto-scale.com/https://www.instagram.com/designedto_scale/

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on why revenue-only goals can lead to burnout, and what you should actually be focusing on if you want to scale sustainably. We’re talking about the difference between vanity metrics and true freedom, the systems and delivery models that create real scalability, and how to build a business that supports your lifestyle—not one that takes over your life.Whether you're nearing that $10K mark or already there and wondering, “Is this really it?”—this episode is your permission slip to rethink what success really looks like.https://designedto-scale.com/https://www.instagram.com/designedto_scale/

If you're juggling nap time with Zoom calls or sneaking in podcast time while pushing a stroller, this one’s for you. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the biggest transformations of my life—becoming a mom while running a business. From identity shifts and emotional unlearning to redefining success entirely, I share what no one prepares you for when you're both a mother and a founder.You'll hear:The messy and magical reality of raising babies and building a businessThe identity shift that rocked me—and how I grew from it5 things motherhood has taught me that made me a better business ownerWhy simplifying, setting boundaries, and trusting your intuition are essential CEO skillsHow I’ve redefined success around presence, purpose, and personal fulfillmentWhether you're pregnant, postpartum, years into motherhood, or dreaming of a future with both a family and a thriving business—you’re not alone, and you don’t have to choose. This is your permission slip to do both, in your own way.Journal Prompt:What has motherhood taught me about myself as a leader?🎧 Tune in, reflect, and share with a fellow mompreneur who needs this reminder.📲 Connect with me on Instagram @byoliviaaustin and @designedto_scale and follow along for more real conversations on motherhood, business, and building a life that’s fully yours.

What do the most successful creative entrepreneurs have in common? It’s not a secret sauce—it’s mindset. In this episode, we’re diving into the powerful shifts that separate high-achievers from the rest. From self-leadership and identity work to daily habits that build resilience, you’ll walk away with tangible mindset upgrades to elevate how you lead, create, and scale.

You’re getting inquiries... but then crickets. Or maybe you're stuck in back-and-forth emails, clients are dragging their feet, asking a million questions, or ghosting you after you send the proposal. Sound familiar?Here's the thing: your offers alone aren't the problem—your discovery call and proposal process might be.In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the exact system I use to book high-paying clients with confidence and clarity. No more second-guessing your pricing. No more awkward calls. No more ghosting. Just a seamless client experience that builds trust, positions you as the expert, and gets the “yes.”https://www.instagram.com/designedto_scale/

Feeling like Q1 flew by in a blur of goals, launches, and to-do lists? Same. In this episode, I’m sharing my honest reflection on the highs, lows, and pivots of the first quarter of the year—plus how I’m planning for a more aligned and intentional Q2. We’ll talk about push and pull seasons in business and life, how to honor where you're at, and how I’m shifting priorities to create more space, strategy, and joy.byoliviaaustin.com/studio-growth-accelerator

Running a business while raising little ones is no small feat. Between client work, emails, school drop-offs, and snack requests (so many snack requests!), it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up. But over the years, I’ve found a few simple habits that have completely transformed how I show up as both a business owner and a mom.In this episode, I’m sharing the five game-changing habits that help me feel more productive, present, and less stressed—without overcomplicating my days. These aren’t rigid routines or unrealistic schedules; they’re small, intentional shifts that make a massive difference.LINKS:Tools, Tech & Resources Guide: https://delightful-glade-81121.myflodesk.com/tech-freebieGoals ClickUp Template: https://byoliviaaustin.com/clickup-goals-templateClickUp weekly schedule template: https://byoliviaaustin.com/clickup-weekly-to-do-templateUse code BTD10 for 10% off any templates in the template shop

Grab my list of tools & tech I can't live without here: https://delightful-glade-81121.myflodesk.com/tech-freebieUse code BTD10 for $200 off Studio Growth Accelerator: https://byoliviaaustin.com/studio-growth-acceleratorIf you’re running a business (or just trying to keep your life together), the right tools can change everything. From project management to payments, marketing to mindset, I’m sharing the exact tech, systems, and resources that keep my business running smoothly—without the overwhelm.In this episode, we’re covering:✔️ My go-to tools for project & life management (hello, ClickUp!)✔️ The best platforms for streamlining client work, invoicing & contracts✔️ Marketing & content tools that save time and boost visibility✔️ Wellness & mindset resources that keep me performing at my best✔️ How to get the full list in The Founder’s Ultimate Tools & Tech Guide (so you don’t have to scramble for notes!)

LAST CHANCE to join us inside Designed to Scale Mastermind - only 2 spots left https://byoliviaaustin.com/designed-to-scaleIn today’s episode, we’re breaking down exactly what’s possible for your studio in the next six months and why so many designers stay stuck in the same frustrating cycles. If you’ve been craving more clarity, consistency, and confidence in your business, keep listening—because this is the roadmap to getting there.Let’s dive in.