#199: Where the Heck Do I Start? The New Biz Overwhelm

Feeling stuck because you do not know where to start in your business or marketing? You are not alone and you are not behind. In today’s episode, we are unpacking why overwhelm happens so often for new and growing business owners and why it usually comes from a lack of clarity, not a lack of capability. We walk through the four common “start here” stages we see entrepreneurs fall into and help you figure out which one you are actually in right now. From building solid foundations, to refreshing a brand that no longer fits, to creating content that finally connects, to knowing when it is time to bring in support. If marketing feels heavy, confusing, or like you are trying to do everything at once, this episode will help you slow down, get focused, and find your next right step without the overwhelm.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/new-business-overwhelmLinks Mentioned in This Episode: duocollective.com/start-hereTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Podcasting has quickly become one of our favorite corners of the business, mostly because we get to yap, teach, and connect with you in a way that feels way more human. Today we’re sitting down with podcast growth expert Kylee Chandler to talk about how to actually grow a podcast without burning out or posting 24/7 on social media. We get into batching, outsourcing, smart repurposing, and why podcasting can be such a powerful long-term play for small businesses. If starting a podcast has been on your “someday” list or you already have one and want it to do more than just sit there, this episode is full of real talk and doable strategies you can grow into.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-grow-a-podcastTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Getting your next client doesn’t always mean posting more, launching something big, or completely reinventing your business. Sometimes it’s about getting a little more creative and a lot more intentional with what you already have. In this episode, we’re sharing seven practical, non-icky ways to bring in your next client. From reconnecting with past clients and turning wins into simple case studies, to creating quick-win offers, pocket projects, and collaborations that actually feel aligned, these ideas are designed to help you build momentum without burning out. If your inquiries feel quiet or you’re craving fresh energy in your marketing, this episode will help you spot opportunities that are already within reach and start showing up with more clarity and confidence.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/ideas-to-get-a-new-clientTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes to share exactly how we market at Duo Collective— the real workflows, the support we rely on, and the data-driven decisions that shape our strategy. From our Monday podcast repurposing machine to our tiny-but-mighty email rhythm to the pieces of marketing we’ve intentionally stopped doing, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s actually working for us right now as a growing brand and two moms building a business with heart. You’ll learn where we’re doubling down in 2026, what we’re letting go of, and how to choose the right marketing focus for your business based on clarity, data, and what feels good. If marketing has ever felt overwhelming, this episode will help you simplify and rethink what growth can look like.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/marketing-plan-example-for-duo-collectiveTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

If you’re in a slow, discouraging, what-the-heck-am-I-even-doing season, this episode is the reminder you didn’t know you needed. Because every business has messy chapters and hard months and moments where you swear you’re the only one struggling. You’re not. Today we’re talking about what it really looks like to move through a crappy season without giving up on yourself or your business. We’re unpacking why these seasons happen, how world-changing entrepreneurs have walked through their own low points, and the simple shifts that can help you find clarity, traction, and hope again.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-not-give-upTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Today we’re flipping the script on what it really means to give back. Because let’s be honest, the holiday season can stretch your time, energy, and budget to the limit. But generosity doesn’t have to come from your wallet. We are sharing creative and heartfelt ways to make an impact even when money feels tight. From using your platform to spotlight others to hosting a connection-filled gathering instead of a cookie exchange, you’ll walk away with ideas that feel simple, doable, and full of heart.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/ways-to-give-back-to-the-communityTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

In today’s episode, we’re calling out the Q4 panic that hits every entrepreneur this time of year. You know the one… racing to squeeze in last-minute sales, hit impossible goals, and prove your year was “successful.” But here’s the truth: Q4 isn’t the end. It’s the setup for what’s next.We’re sharing why your calendar year doesn’t have to define your business timeline, how to spot your own seasonal rhythms, and what to focus on instead of forcing results. Whether this season feels busy or quiet, you’ll walk away with practical ways to use Q4 for reflection, strategy, and rest.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/start-a-new-q4-planLinks Mentioned in This Episode: #50 https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-feel-more-confident-about-your-business-finances (oldie but a goodie!)#141 https://duocollective.com/blog/annual-business-planning-meeting#173 https://duocollective.com/blog/what-to-know-before-your-first-hire Tuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

In today’s replay, we are revisiting one of our most loved episodes on how to find a good keyword and giving it a 2025 refresh. We are breaking down how to choose keywords that match how your audience actually talks, balance high and low search volume, and use natural language so both search engines and AI tools truly understand your content. Whether you are newer to SEO or ready to clean up your strategy, this is a keyword crash course you will want to come back to again and again.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-choose-seo-keywordsTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

In today’s episode, we’re chatting with our client and travel pro, Dana from DWD Travel, about something so many business owners forget— how to bring your brand beyond the screen. Dana didn’t stop at her website or Instagram. She infused her rebrand into custom wallpaper, apparel, and even cozy branded blankets (yes, really). We’re talking all about what happens when your brand starts showing up in the real world— and how that physical presence can boost your confidence, connect with clients, and make your brand feel truly alive.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/custom-office-design-with-your-brandingTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Think you can’t launch your course until everything is perfect? In today’s episode, we’re proving that’s just not true. We’re walking you through how to launch even when things feel messy, timelines shift, and you definitely don’t have it all together. You’ll learn how to work with what you have— writing sales emails on the fly, reusing content, leaning on automations, and showing up as your real, imperfect self. Because spoiler alert: your audience doesn’t need perfect, they need you to start.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-launch-a-courseTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/