242. Forming a Partnership with Another Independent Consultant with Abbie DuBois and Scott Allen

Forming a partnership as an independent consultant can feel difficult and even risky. You’re used to autonomy. You’ve created your own unique way of running your business. And, you also feel lonely at times.Bringing someone else into your process? That can feel like a threat to your freedom, your income, or your control.But what if the right partnership expanded your possibilities instead of limiting them?In this episode, I sit down with two of my past coaching clients, Abbie DuBois and Scott Allen, who have built a mutually beneficial joint offering.They share how they met through this podcast (I am so honored to be part of their story) and how they organically grew from one conversation to a fully functional collaboration, without sacrificing their individual practices.We unpack how they brainstormed, pressure-tested their idea, went to market, and ultimately signed joint clients. You’ll hear how they use divide-and-conquer tactics for business development, how they structure contracts and compensation, and how they manage capacity between solo work and joint projects.They don’t hold anything back.If you’ve ever considered working with another consultant or dismissed the idea entirely, this episode will challenge your assumptions.What you will learn in this episode:[05:12] How an organic connection led to a formal partnership and why they never forced the outcome[08:44] Why complementary skills are the key to building a synergistic joint offer[13:22] How they used surveys and iterative testing to identify a viable niche (value-based care)[17:40] Their client acquisition approach and why they focused on building reps together first[23:55] How they structure contracts, fees, and incentives in a way that preserves autonomy and ownership[30:41] What’s next: retainer models, advisory boards, and leveraging AI for scalabilityTune in to Episode 242 to hear the behind-the-scenes of a successful partnership model that preserves independence and accelerates growth.Mentioned Resources1) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-242/2)  Find Abbie DuBois: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-dubois 3)  Find Scott Allen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-allen-b06b6b5/  4) Melisa’s Free Resources, Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisaliberman5) Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 172 - Filling Your Pipeline, Landing Ideal Consulting Clients, and Turning Away Work with Abbie DuBois Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

"Let me think about it."It sounds harmless. Strategic, even.But for independent consultants, that phrase can quietly erode revenue, momentum, and confidence.In this episode, Melisa breaks down the hidden toll of decision debt, which is the backlog of unmade choices cluttering your mental inbox. From pricing delays to lingering red-flag clients, these non-decisions drain your bandwidth and reinforce the status quo.Melisa walks you through the mindset traps keeping you in limbo, and shares a simple but powerful framework to clear the backlog and prevent future debt from accumulating.You’ll learn how to stop letting “I’ll decide later” run your business.What you will learn in this episode:[04:48] What decision debt actually is and why it quietly undermines your business.[08:45] The four root causes that keep consultants stuck in indecision.[15:20] The real cost of “I’ll think about it”, including missed revenue and lost confidence.[22:04] Two examples of decision debt that are likely hiding in your business right now.[26:13] A simple, repeatable tool to eliminate decision debt and build decisive momentum.Tune in to Episode 241 for a straightforward system to start making faster, cleaner decisions and stop the drag on your energy and results.Mentioned Resources1) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-241/2) Melisa’s Free Resources, Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisaliberman3) Related Podcast Episodes: Episode 164 – Thinking “I’m Behind” Is Dangerous for Your Independent Consulting Business  Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

What does it really take to hit a $100K quarter as an independent consultant in your first quarter out of corporate?In this episode, Melisa talks with her client Elizabeth Freedman, founder of E•Suite Leader, who went from zero to $100K in the first three months of her business.Elizabeth shares the inside story of not just what she did, but how she thought. From taming the temptation to do too much, to building a pipeline with targeted outreach (not a LinkedIn posting spree), to navigating pricing drama and client delivery overload, this is the kind of honest, detailed breakdown every consultant needs to hear.If you’ve ever overcomplicated your lead generation strategies, second-guessed your pricing, or tried to grow your consulting business by writing another blog post instead of making a sales call, this episode is your wake-up call.What you will learn in this episode:[05:14] Why simplicity is non-negotiable when launching your consulting business and how Elizabeth fought the urge to do too much too fast[09:58] How to fill your pipeline without becoming a social media content machine[15:40] Why B- work beats perfection, especially when it comes to business development[20:18] The real secret to consistent high-revenue quarters (hint: it starts in your own head)[25:44] How to stay out of the “consultant friend zone” and ask for the order[35:10] Why Q4 is the best quarter of the year, and how to sell into it instead of slowing downTune in to Episode 240 for a real-life look at how to structure your consulting business for revenue, results, and long-term impact.Mentioned Resources1) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-240/2) Find Elizabeth Freedman: Website: https://esuiteleader.com/October Executive Intensive Details: https://esuiteleader.com/impact-intro3) Melisa’s Free Resources, Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisaliberman4) Related Episode:  Episode 237 – Make the Most of Your Business Owner Thinking Time    ️Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

If you've ever said, “One day I’ll write a book,” this episode is your call to stop waiting and start writing. LeAnne Lagasse joins Melisa to walk through the real process of writing and launching a book as a consultant, including the parts no one talks about.LeAnne doesn’t sugarcoat the process. From decision fatigue to imposter syndrome to learning how to repurpose your workshop content into a compelling written format, she shares what it takes to go from idea to finished product.More importantly, Melisa and LeAnne dig into why a book isn’t a vanity project, it’s a strategic business asset when you give it a clear “job” to do.If you’ve got a book idea on your "someday" list or want to see how a consultant uses authorship to elevate demand, thought leadership, and pricing, this conversation is a must-listen.And, as a bonus LeAnne shares tips on how to hire an Executive Assistant and wh she engaged to help her with the book writing process and launch.What you will learn in this episode:[03:41] Why LeAnne finally decided to write her book after years of putting it off[10:25] The mindset shift that helped her overcome imposter syndrome and commit to authorship[16:30] How she used AI like ChatGPT to test reader reactions, tighten stories, and simulate feedback[21:55] The job she gave her book and how she aligned the publishing path to fit that goal[26:10] What made the process harder than she expected and how she managed the emotional challenges[36:40] Advice for consultants considering writing a book and the investment she believes made it possible [42:33] How LeAnne consistently attracts more demand than she can handle and her systems for staying top-of-mind[47:30] Why she hired a full-time employee (and how she finds someone who can write in her voice)Tune in to Episode 239 for an honest look at what it takes to write a book that not only adds credibility, but becomes a core asset in your consulting business growth strategy.Mentioned Resources1) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-239/2) Find LeAnne Lagasse: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannelagasse/ Website - https://www.leannelagasse.com/Book - The Congruent Leader: Build Trust, Lead with Self-Awareness, and Close the Gap Between How You See Yourself and How Others Experience You - https://www.thecongruentleaderbook.com/LeAnne’s Amazon Book TeamBecky (Graphic Designer): https://beckysgraphicdesign.com/Deb (Editor): https://www.radiantmedialabs.com/Vanessa (Copyeditor): https://www.vanessamayco.com/3) Melisa’s Free Resources, Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisaliberman4) Related Episode:  ️Episode 071 – Creating Compelling Consulting Offers (and more) with LeAnne Lagasse Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Even though the year is wrapping up and vacations take over, landing consulting clients in Q4 doesn’t have to be hard.Q4 isn’t a write-off.When Q4 rolls around, many consultants either start to panic that they won’t hit their revenue goals or they ease off the gas because they’ve already met them. These approaches can cost you momentum and opportunity.In this episode, Melisa Liberman walks you through a simple three-part framework to help you finish the year strong: Choosing what to sell that fits the season, Creating a clear plan to deliver it, and Fueling your work with an aligned mindset.You’ll hear why clients are still buying in Q4, what types of offers are easiest to land this time of year, and how to use the last few months as a launchpad into next year.Don’t let the calendar dictate your results. There is still time to set and achieve goals in your independent consulting business.What you will learn in this episode:[02:52] What Q4 might look for you right now[06:50] How to make the most of Q4[11:25] Developing a plan to optimize your Q4 results[21:19] Benefits of taking this approach[24:00] 3 steps to put this into actionTune in to Episode 238 to learn how to win consulting clients in Q4 while setting yourself up for a stronger start to 2026.Mentioned Resources1) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-238/2) Melisa’s Free Resources, Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisalibermanWant help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Thinking Like a Business Owner Isn’t Just a Mindset. It’s a Skill.Most independent consultants know they should think like a business owner, but what does that actually look like day to day?In this episode, Melisa introduces a simple yet powerful strategy: Business Owner Thinking Time. You’ll learn how to move beyond reacting to tasks or relying on AI to think for you, and instead carve out time to think strategically and guide your business like a CEO.Melisa shares five practical ways to structure your thinking time so it generates ROI in the form of clearer strategy, smarter decisions, innovative ideas, and stronger leadership. You’ll also get two actionable ways to start applying this immediately, including a free 21-day challenge to help you build the habit.When your to-do list drives the day, your business stalls. Learn how to flip that.What you will learn in this episode:[04:50] Why thinking time is your most underutilized tool and what it reveals about your business[10:12] 4 ways to maximize your thinking time and stop wasting the time you do set aside[15:00] 5 pathways for structured thinking so you’re not just sitting with a blank page[25:00] The “Business Brain” Challenge and how to start a daily habit of CEO-level thinkingTune in to Episode 237 for practical tools to help you lead your business with intentionality, clarity, and strategy not just urgency.Mentioned Resources1) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-237/2) Join the Business Brain Challenge: https://www.skool.com/business-owner-growth-lab-7405/about 3) Melisa’s Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisalibermanWant help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

You might think your lead generation isn't working because you're not consistent. Or because you're not good at marketing. Or because you’re fully booked and don’t “need” leads right now.Those assumptions are common, and they’re also wrong.In this episode, Melisa breaks down the real reasons your consulting pipeline isn’t where you want it to be. Most consultants misdiagnose the problem and end up solving for the wrong thing, wasting time, energy, and momentum in the process.In the episode, you’ll learn the four true root causes of a low-performing pipeline, how to identify which ones are holding you back, and what to do about them. This isn’t about working more. It’s about working smarter, and facing some uncomfortable truths that will set you free.Whether your pipeline is bone dry or just not producing the right type of leads, this episode gives you a practical way to get back in control.What you will learn in this episode:[06:12] The four myths consultants believe about why their lead generation isn’t working (and why they’re so damaging)[10:35] The real reason your strategy isn’t working, and why “I don’t have a strategy” is usually the honest answer [13:45] Why your skills gap is normal, and how to treat it like a business owner, not a limitation[16:55] What lack of effort really looks like (and how to stop letting excuses pose as facts)[21:50] How mindset quietly sabotages even your best lead gen plans, and how to rewire your thinking[28:35] How to use the Pipeline Scorecard to identify your weak spots and fix them[29:40] Details on the Consultant’s Pipeline Sprint, including what it is and how to joinTune in to Episode 236 for the tools to finally fix your pipeline from the real root cause, without hustling, guessing, or winging it.Mentioned Resources1) Join the Consultant’s Pipeline Sprint: www.ICaccelerator.com2) Consultant’s Lead Gen Scorecard: https://www.pipelinescorecard.com3) Melisa’s Books, Planners & Journals: https://linktr.ee/melisaliberman4) Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-236Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

Your pipeline is not where you want it to be.You’re struggling to maintain consistent business development routines.You’re not sure where the next client is coming from.In this episode, Melisa walks you through how to implement a lead generation sprint: a short, focused burst of activity that fills your pipeline with the right kind of opportunities.She shares specific examples from three clients, all at different stages of their consulting business to show how this approach works (even if you’ve never done business development before).What you will learn in this episode:[06:45] What a lead gen sprint really is and why it’s a fast, effective tool for filling your consulting pipeline[15:14] The 5 prerequisites to set up your sprint (and make sure it doesn’t become just another to-do)[21:45] The 4 common mindset blocks that prevent consultants from taking action and how to coach yourself through them[26:04] 5 strategies to maximize your sprint results, including how to front-load your calendar and evaluate what ’s workingTune in to Episode 235 for the strategy, structure, and coaching to help you break out of feast-or-famine and build a consistently full consulting pipeline.And, then, don’t forget to1) Enroll in the Consultant’s Pipeline Sprint: www.ICaccelerator.com2) Check out the Growth Atlas business owner tools on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=growth+atlasFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-235/Related ResourcesRelated Podcast Episodes: Episode 172 – Filling Your Pipeline, Landing Ideal Consulting Clients, and Turning Away Work with Abbie DuBois: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-172/Episode 224 - The 6-Figure Pipeline Playbook with Ellie Holbert: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-224/ Episode 214 - A Unique Consulting Business Growth Tool with Matty Bakkeren: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-214/ Shop Growth Atlas Products: Quarterly Business Planner: https://shorturl.at/egUFC The Business Brain Journal: https://shorturl.at/2c1eS The Project Map Desk Pad: https://shorturl.at/Dj2bl Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com   Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

What if the biggest obstacle in your consulting business… is your own management approach?Most independent consultants left corporate to get away from bad managers, but end up recreating that dynamic for themselves.In this episode, Melisa uncovers the #1 management mistake she sees independent consultants make again and again: becoming a “ghost manager” in their own business.She walks you through the five components of being a good self-manager so you can stop unintentionally sabotaging your business and start building consistent, high-quality results.You’ll learn to recognize where you’re disappearing, how that ghosting erodes confidence, and what it looks like to actually manage yourself like a high-performing business owner, not just a delivery engine for your clients.If you’ve been over-indexing on client work and neglecting your business, this episode is your blueprint for getting back in the driver’s seat.What you will learn in this episode:[05:15] The “ghost manager” pattern and how it’s quietly stalling your growth and causing overwhelm[11:08] The difference between self-leadership and self-management, and why you need both to run a thriving business[14:35] Five key components of a good manager, tailored to independent consultants[15:02] How to implement planning, systematizing, ownership, protection, and coaching in your own business, even as a solo operator[30:45] A reflection framework to identify where you’re holding yourself back (and what to do about it)Tune in to Episode 234 for practical strategies and mindset shifts to become the kind of manager you actually want to work for.Full Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-234/Related ResourcesJoin the waitlist for Melisa’s Business Brain Journal, https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Companion Resource: Read Melisa’s book, Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 233 - The Big Leadership Mistake Independent Consultants Make, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-233  Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com   Want More?Get Melisa’s Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa’s Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa’s Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.

If you're like most independent consultants, one of the reasons you left corporate was to get out of managing. You wanted to avoid the team drama, the politics, the performance reviews.So it makes sense if you’ve put “leadership” in the rearview.But here’s the trap: when you assume leadership no longer applies, you create a blind spot that quietly undermines your consulting business.In this episode, Melisa explores what happens when consultants opt out of leadership, not intentionally but by default, and how that decision limits your growth, momentum, and confidence.She redefines what leadership looks like as a business owner. It’s about leading yourself and your business with direction, consistency, and purpose.You’ll walk away with:A new, more relevant definition of leadership that fits your role right nowA five-part self-leadership framework you can use immediatelySpecific ways to take the lead in your business, even if you’re a team of oneInside the episode:[04:58] How the “I don’t lead anymore” mindset keeps your business reactive[11:13] Five self-leadership traits that fuel consistent growth and sustainability[13:32] What it actually means to be the visionary in your business[16:47] How to stay motivated without relying on external validation[18:56] Why opportunity generation depends on your ability to lead yourself[21:22] What it looks like to build trust in your own leadership, not just your client workIf you’ve been operating like a one-person delivery machine, this episode will show you how to shift into the leader role, the one that actually drives results.→ Open the show notes for the five self-leadership traits and reflection questions to start applying this right away. https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-233/Related ResourcesFull Show Notes: https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-233/Join the waitlist for Melisa’s Business Brain Journal, https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Companion Resource: Read Chapter 16 in Melisa’s book, Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality, https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CSXJBGVBRelated Podcast Episode: Episode 188 - Thinking of Yourself as a Managing Partner: A Gamechanger for Your Consulting Business Results, https://shownotes.melisaliberman.com/episode-188/#more-2518 Work with Melisa: Apply for a Coaching Exploratory call at https://www.consultmelisa.com   Want More?Get Melisa’s Book: https://www.melisaliberman.com/bookVisit with Melisa’s Website: www.melisaliberman.com Follow on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/melisa-liberman Get Notified When Melisa’s Products Launch: https://www.melisaliberman.com/growth-atlas-products Want help achieving your consulting business goals? Melisa can help. Click here for more on coaching tailored to you as an independent consulting business owner.