Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep104

Instagram:@aleciastg

If this episode landed and you're tired of running your business reactively every time your numbers shift, the next step is a Capacity Assessment Call. We'll look at where you actually are financially, where the panic is coming from, and what it would take to make a slow season feel like a season instead of an emergency.  Book yours at consciousedge.com/capacity. 

You know the feeling. Revenue is down. What was working isn't working as well. And before you can even think about what to do, your brain has already decided you must be doing something wrong. You're not. Businesses cycle. The way real estate cycles. The way the stock market cycles. The dip is often the nature of running a business in a real economy.

In this Monthly Money Talks, Alecia and her financial strategist Jenn Baas of Peak to Peak Solutions get into what's in your control when the market shifts, how much cash to actually keep on hand, the peace tax, and why adaptability matters more than stability if you want to still be in business ten years from now. If you've ever felt the panic of an unexpected slow season and wondered if you should be doing something different, this conversation will reset what a slow season actually means.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

In this episode you'll discover:

-Why a revenue dip is often a cycle, not proof you've broken something

-How the real estate market parallel explains what your business is actually doing

-Why a financial capacity plan can turn a stressful, unexpected expense into a non-event

-What's in your control when the market shifts and what isn't

-Why adaptability matters more than stability if you want to be in business long-term

-What the peace tax is and why minimizing every dollar of taxes can cost you sleep

-How much cash Jenn actually recommends keeping on hand for the unpredictable

-Why making cuts is sometimes the healthiest move for the business, not a sign you failed

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep103

Instagram:@aleciastg

If you saw yourself in this episode, the next step is a conversation. Book your Capacity Assessment Call at consciousedge.com/capacity. 

After volunteering at her daughter's Science Olympiad state competition, Alecia spent hours grading tests and noticed three distinct patterns. The perfectionists who only answered questions they were absolutely certain about, leaving entire sections blank. The kids who showed up unprepared and just guessed at everything. And the top performers who came prepared, knew their material, and still answered every single question even when they had to take a swing at it. The part that should wake you up: the perfectionists and the kids who didn't prepare at all scored about the same.

Joined by her regular co-host Jonathan Dugger, Alecia unpacks what this dynamic looks like in business. Why perfectionism is actually a strategy for avoiding failure disguised as high standards. What it's costing the capable business owners who've been telling themselves their carefulness is a strength. And why it's never too late to start retraining the brain to take small, intentional risks without being so attached to the outcome.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

In this episode on mindfulness for business owners, you'll discover:

-Why perfectionism isn't actually about being perfect, and what it really is

-The three patterns Alecia noticed grading her daughter's Science Olympiad tests, and what they reveal about how people run their businesses

-Why being decisive sometimes beats not answering at all

-What perfectionism is costing you in fun, joy, and actual results

-Why criticism keeps you stuck and curiosity keeps you moving

-How to retrain your brain to take small, intentional risks without being attached to the outcome

-Why it's never too late to unlearn the patterns you picked up in middle school

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep102

Instagram:@aleciastg

If this conversation has you rethinking how you show up as a leader in the moments that matter most, the next step is a conversation. Book your Capacity Assessment Call at consciousedge.com/capacity. 

Mindfulness has become a top-searched wellness term and a growing line item in corporate training budgets. According to Jonathan Dugger, a lot of what's being sold to business owners and leaders under that label isn't actually mindfulness at all. In this Mindfulness Matters conversation, Alecia and Jonathan unpack what mindfulness really is, why the marketed version can erode trust with your team, and how to tell the difference as a business owner trying to lead well. 

The episode takes a turn when Jonathan gets heated about how mindfulness is being commodified, and then demonstrates in real time exactly what the practice looks like when it's working. You'll hear what he calls "McMindfulness," why mindfulness is not about being positive and not a cure for anything, and what it actually is: a daily practice of non-judgment, curiosity, and staying in alignment with who you are. If mindfulness has started to feel like a wellness buzzword you can't quite trust, this is the conversation that cuts through the noise. 

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

In this episode on mindfulness for business owners, you'll discover:

-What mindfulness actually is as a leader, beyond the Instagram version of it

-How to tell a real mindfulness practice from a marketed one, and why discernment matters when you're choosing what to bring into your business

-What "McMindfulness" is and why it's quietly eroding trust inside corporate culture

-Why companies with true mindfulness practices have lower attrition and stronger retention

-Why mindfulness is not about being positive, and why that was the unlock moment of this episode

-The difference between mindfulness and nervous system regulation, and how they work together in how you lead

-Starter tools you can try today in three to five minutes, no candles required

-Why no one is a master of mindfulness, and why that reframes how you build a sustainable business

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep101

Instagram → @aleciastg

There is a version of responsibility that serves people beautifully. And there is a version that dismantles you, your business, and ultimately your ability to help anyone at all.

In this episode, Alecia St. Germain unpacks the difference. She gets into why keeping the wrong employee too long, undercharging because you feel bad, holding back from visibility out of fear of causing harm, and carrying more than your share at home are not acts of generosity. They are patterns of over-responsibility that hold everyone around you smaller than they are, and drain resources your business can’t run without.

If you have ever wondered whether taking care of yourself and your business first is selfish, this episode will answer that question clearly.

Hint: it isn’t. It’s how you help more people.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

– Why feeling deeply responsible for your clients’ results, your team’s wellbeing, and the people you love can quietly paralyze your business growth

– How over-responsibility shows up as undercharging, over-functioning, avoiding visibility, and keeping the wrong people too long

– Why sacrificing yourself doesn’t protect the people around you. It holds them smaller than they actually are

– The real math on why your business surviving is the most generous leadership decision you can make

– What it looks like to hold people accountable for their own results while still leading with deep compassion

– How to stop carrying what belongs to others without abandoning the people you care about

– Why your business sustainability is not optional if you want to keep showing up and serving at a high level

– What changes when you stop over-functioning, for your clients, your team, and the relationships that matter most

If today’s episode named something you’ve been carrying, come find me on Instagram at @aleciastg and tell me what landed.

And if you’re ready to figure out where you’re leaking capacity and what it would look like to build a business that actually fits your life, the next step is a Capacity Assessment Call. Book yours at consciousedge.com/capacity.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep100

It's time to stop spiraling and start building from a different place. The next step is a conversation. Book your Capacity Assessment Call at consciousedge.com/capacity.

This is Episode 100 of The Conscious Edge, and for this milestone conversation, Alecia St. Germain and co-host Jonathan Dugger are unpacking one of the most damaging thought errors she's seeing in the women she works with right now: the belief that struggle means failure. That if something is harder than expected, if things aren't going smoothly, if uncomfortable feelings are showing up, then you must be doing something wrong. In a culture shaped by curated social media, pop positivity, and generations of wanting to shield ourselves and our children from discomfort, this belief has become almost invisible. And it's costing people dearly. This episode names it, traces where it comes from, and offers something more honest and more useful in its place.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

- Why the thought "if I'm struggling, I must be failing" is a thought error, not a truth, and how to start recognizing it in real time

-Where this belief actually comes from: cultural, religious, social media, and even parenting patterns that have been building for generations

-Why shielding yourself (or your kids) from discomfort doesn't create safety, it shrinks your capacity for joy too

-What the hero's journey, Buddhist philosophy, and good psychology all agree on when it comes to struggle

-How to break the cycle using curiosity instead of judgment, and why that one shift changes everything

-Why self-compassion is uncomfortable on purpose, and why that doesn't mean you're doing it wrong

-What to do if you're so stuck in the story that you can't even hear the people trying to help you

I'd love to hear from you. Send me a message on Instagram at @aleciastg and tell me where struggle has been showing up in your business or your life.

❓Have a question for Monthly Money Talks? Send your question to me in a DM on Instagram → @aleciastg.  Your question may be featured in an upcoming  with Zen Jenn.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep099

If this episode raised a question you are not sure how to answer, the best next step is a conversation.  Book a Capacity Assessment Call at consciousedge.com/capacity

Alecia St. Germain and her fractional CFO and  financial strategist Jenn Baas go straight to one of the most charged words in business: debt. Not to tell you it is bad. Not to say use it freely. To ask the question that actually matters, which is what is it doing for you, and what is it helping you avoid?

From the client who used debt to sidestep difficult conversations, to the entrepreneur who keeps adding lines of credit instead of fixing what is fundamentally broken, Alecia and Jenn unpack the mindset underneath the money. They talk about when debt is a powerful strategic tool, how to know if you are using it from abundance or from scarcity, what Jenn calls the peace tax, and why the pain of where you are has to become greater than the pain of change before anything actually shifts.

Real, practical, and surprisingly personal, this one will make you look at your own relationship with debt a little differently.

📝 What We Cover:

-When debt is a legitimate business tool and the specific conditions that make it strategic

-The dangerous comfort of debt, and how it can insulate you from the pain that would actually motivate change

-Why staying stuck is not a discipline problem; it is a pain threshold problem

-The big assumption one client uncovered that was driving her to use debt as a way to avoid discomfort and difficult conversations

-Scarcity disguised as abundance thinking, and how to tell the difference

-What Jenn calls the peace tax, and why how debt makes you feel is part of the financial equation

-How Alecia used her own budget and plan to say no to a certification she genuinely wanted, without regret

-What compassionate leadership has to do with holding clients and colleagues accountable for money owed

In one of her most personal episodes yet, Alecia St. Germain finally gives the soul pillar of her company, The Conscious Edge, a methodology and a name out loud. She shares what soul purpose is, where it comes from, and what happened when she stopped doing everything by the book and started paying attention to her soul instead. That's when the map encoded in her birth name finally made sense. She walks through her own chart. The codes that explained her early career rise, her lost voice, her debt, and her path back to alignment. And she makes the case for why the soul piece so many entrepreneurs hold privately is the piece that changes everything when it finally gets to belong in the work.

Curious what a soul purpose chart actually looks like? It’s posted in the show notes at consciousedge.com/ep098 with a full breakdown of what it all means

Let’s connect on Instagram → @aleciastg

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

🔯What soul purpose is and why it has never had a public home until this episode

🔯The Sefer Yetzirah, the ancient text at the root of this methodology, and its connection to Moses

🔯How your birth name encodes your gifts, challenges, goals, and soul purpose

🔯What my own chart revealed about my coaching, my seasonal planning, and the worthiness wounds I had to work through

🔯Why soul purpose and Immunity to Change coaching work together so powerfully

🔯What it means to bring your faith into your business without making it a label in your marketing

🔯What is available inside the Exponential Entrepreneur right now, and what is coming

❓Have a question for Monthly Money Talks? Send your question to me in a DM on Instagram → @aleciastg.  Your question may be featured in an upcoming episode with Zen Jenn.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep097

Ready to get connected to your business finances? Book a Capacity Assessment Call at consciousedge.com/capacity

Alecia sits down with fractional CFO and financial strategist Jenn Baas for March's Monthly Money Talk.  This month, they're digging into something that comes up all the time with women entrepreneurs: accounting software. Not the fun part of running a business, but one of the most important. They talk through QuickBooks vs. spreadsheets, what to look for in a bookkeeper, and what it really means to be connected to your numbers. Because staying disconnected isn't just inconvenient, it's draining your energy and limiting your growth.

📝 What We Cover:

• Is bookkeeping software worth the cost? We break down what you're really paying for and what it's costing you to go without it

• QuickBooks vs. spreadsheets vs. other software: what to look for, what to avoid, and why owning your financial data matters

• The real cost of DIY bookkeeping: how doing it yourself drains your time and energy and limits your growth

• Bookkeeper red flags and how to protect yourself: why checks and balances aren't optional, even when you trust your provider

• Where to start when it all feels like too much: the "pick three" approach to better financial health without fixing everything at once

You can hit your goals and ignore the exhaustion. You can tell yourself it’s just a busy season while your sleep declines, your focus slips, and your body starts sending signals you don’t want to look at. Most business owners don’t lose their health overnight. They trade it away in small, reasonable decisions that feel productive in the moment.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep096

Instagram → @aleciastg

In this episode, Alecia St. Germain shares her deeply personal experience and why she’s imploring you to reframe your health as your most important responsibility, not a luxury.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

• The subtle sacrifices that feel disciplined but erode your health

• Why “in range” lab results are not the same as optimal functioning

• How sleep impacts your brain, decision-making, and long-term capacity

• How ambition can override your body’s warning signs

• The midlife shifts many women ignore or dismiss

• What stewardship of your body actually looks like in real life

▶️Press play and take a hard look at what you’ve been trading for progress.

After you do, come connect with me on Instagram @aleciastg and tell me what you’re currently trying to figure out when it comes to prioritizing your health while building your business. I want to hear what you’re navigating.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep095

Instagram → @aleciastg

In this episode, Alecia St. Germain sits down with fund manager and real estate investor Lisa Moore to explore what most people are not taught about investing, retirement access, and building time freedom earlier. You’ll hear how real estate can shift your relationship with income, risk, and retirement age.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

Why many people do not realize they can invest outside traditional retirement accounts

How “passive income” actually works in real estate

The difference between perceived risk and managed risk

What it means to build income you can access before retirement age

How to think about mini-retirements instead of waiting decades

This episode is especially relevant if you are building wealth but feel unsure whether the traditional path fits your goals.

Connect with Lisa Moore: https://investwithlisamore.com

Instagram → @moredoorswithlisa

👉🏻Press play and listen now.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep094

Instagram → @aleciastg

In this episode, Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger explore how anger can become a powerful force for clarity and change when it’s met with awareness and how mindfulness helps leaders respond instead of react.

📝 What We Cover in This Episode:

Why anger is a natural biological response, not an unacceptable emotion to be stuffed down or dismissed

How awareness interrupts reaction before regret sets in

The difference between anger that sharpens leadership and anger that damages trust

A simple mindfulness practice to create space before action

▶️ If this episode sparked new questions about how you lead under pressure, DM them to me on Instagram (@aleciastg) and we’ll add them to a future episode.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep093

If budgeting makes you tense, avoid your numbers, or feel boxed in, you’re not alone. In this Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn, I’m joined by financial strategist Jenn Baas to explore why budgeting often feels restrictive for business owners and how to approach it in a way that actually supports growth.

This conversation offers a grounded reframe of budgeting as a leadership tool, one that helps you make clearer decisions, reduce financial stress, and build a business that feels steady instead of reactive.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1️⃣Why Budgeting Triggers Resistance: Many entrepreneurs associate budgeting with loss of freedom or past financial pressure. Understanding this reaction is the first step to changing your relationship with money.

2️⃣Clarity Creates Calm Leadership: When you have a simple financial plan, you’re less likely to make emotional or rushed decisions. Budgeting can create relief, not rigidity.

3️⃣A Financial Plan Supports Capacity, Not Control: Approached intentionally, budgeting helps you decide what to focus on, what to release, and how to grow without overextending yourself.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

Ep 92: Why January Goal-Setting Doesn’t Work (and What to Do Instead)

Ep 89: Disordered Growth vs. Growing Pains (Monthly Money Talks)

Ep 83: Financial Capacity: The Wealth Shift From Proving to Purposeful Growth 

Connect with Jenn Baas:Jenn is an Outsourced CFO with over 15 years of experience helping small businesses bring ease, clarity, and strategic insight to their financial operations. She joins me each month for Monthly Money Talks with Zen Jenn and leads the Financial Leadership Labs inside The Exponential Entrepreneur.

To explore Jenn’s external CFO services, visit: peaktopeaksolutions.com

To work with Jenn inside The Exponential Entrepreneur, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Follow or subscribe wherever you’re listening so you never miss a Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building. This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to support clear communication, guilt-free boundaries, and compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:To explore The Exponential Entrepreneur or learn more about working together, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for outcomes resulting from the use of information shared on this podcast or on our websites. This content is not personal, medical, or mental health advice. Please consult qualified medical and mental health professionals as needed. All investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk, and use of this information is at the listener’s discretion.

If January left you feeling tired, unmotivated, or quietly resistant to goal-setting, this episode offers a deeply relieving reframe. What if nothing is wrong with you and the issue is the calendar you’ve been trying to force yourself into?

This episode explores why the traditional January-based planning model often creates burnout, resistance, and misalignment and what to do instead.

Before we dive in, let me be clear.  The perspective I’m sharing challenges a widely accepted way of planning and leading. I’m not rejecting structure or ambition.  I’ve built my business inside that model. But I’ve come to believe it’s incomplete. So if you’re willing to hear me out, this conversation may put language to something you’ve already been feeling.

In this solo episode, I share a compassionate, grounded approach to leadership that honors natural energy cycles instead of hustle-culture timelines. I invite you to rethink the January-to-December model and explore Seasonal Capacity Planning as a more sustainable, human way to lead, plan, and grow.

This episode is especially for high-achieving, Type A leaders who feel deeply connected to nature but want structure, strategy, and logic. This isn’t about doing less or playing small. It’s about applying discipline and effort at the right time.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

January Fatigue Isn’t a Personal Failure, It’s a Seasonal Mismatch: Winter is biologically designed for rest, integration, and vision, not aggressive execution. Forcing productivity during a low-energy season drains capacity instead of building it.

Seasonal Capacity Planning Creates Better Results, Not Less Ambition: By aligning planning, visibility, experimentation, and growth with the seasons, you increase creativity, focus, and sustainable output.

Compassionate Leadership Means Honoring Timing Without Avoiding Responsibility: This approach isn’t passive or indulgent. It’s intentional, strategic leadership that balances accountability with humanity, allowing you to grow without being violent toward yourself.

🎧 Podcast Episodes Related to This One That Might Interest You:

Ep 89: Disordered Growth vs. Growing Pains (Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn)

Ep 86: Relational Capacity – Boundaries That Build Trust & Compassionate Leadership

Ep 85: Time Capacity – Reclaim Your Time & Focus on What Truly Matters

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building. This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to support clear communication, guilt-free boundaries, and compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:

To explore The Exponential Entrepreneur or learn more about working together, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for outcomes resulting from the use of information shared on this podcast or on our websites. This content is not personal, medical, or mental health advice. Please consult qualified medical and mental health professionals as needed. All investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk, and use of this information is at the listener’s discretion.

If you’ve ever known you’re good at what you do but felt a knot in your stomach when it came time to raise your prices or choose the right pricing model, this episode will bring clarity. Pricing challenges aren’t about math or market demand. They’re about how safe it feels to lead the pricing conversation.

In this conversation, I’m joined by pricing strategist Shannon Mattern to unpack why so many women underprice their work and what actually needs to shift for pricing to feel grounded. This conversation reflects the kind of inner and strategic work we do inside The Conscious Edge—where clarity, nervous system safety, and leadership identity come first so strategy actually sticks.

This episode is especially for service providers, consultants, and coaches who are tired of doing more to earn more and are ready to charge in a way that feels clean, calm, and sustainable.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1️⃣ Clear Options Remove the Pressure to Get Pricing “Right”

When you offer thoughtful pricing options, you stop trying to guess what a client values most. Clients can choose based on what matters to them, and you don’t have to over-explain or persuade. The pricing structure carries the weight, so decisions feel calmer and more grounded.

2️⃣ Clients Pay for Fewer Decisions, Not More Time

Your clients aren’t paying for hours or tasks. They’re paying for your ability to reduce uncertainty and guide good decisions. When pricing reflects your thinking and judgment, clients understand the value and move forward with more confidence.

3️⃣ Clear Agreements Reduce Follow-Ups and Renegotiation

When pricing and expectations are clear from the start, accountability becomes shared. You deliver what was agreed to, and clients are less likely to second-guess, renegotiate, or blur boundaries. Pricing becomes a stabilizing structure, not a source of tension.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

Ep 86: Relational Capacity - Boundaries That Build Trust & Compassionate Leadership

Connect with Shannon Mattern:

Shannon Mattern is a pricing strategist for service providers and freelance professionals who sell their expertise and implementation. With over a decade of experience, she’s helped women shift from selling tasks to confidently pricing their intellectual property, strategy, and leadership—especially when they know their pricing needs to change but feel frozen naming the number.

🌐 Website: www.shannonmattern.com/consciousedge 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building. This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to support clear communication, guilt-free boundaries, and compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:

To explore The Exponential Entrepreneur or learn more about working together, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for outcomes resulting from the use of information shared on this podcast or on our websites. This content is not personal, medical, or mental health advice. Please consult qualified medical and mental health professionals as needed. All investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk, and use of this information is at the listener’s discretion.

If you’ve ever said, “I can’t grow because I don’t have access to capital,” this conversation will gently but firmly challenge that belief. In this episode, we explore financial capacity through the lens of capital raising and leadership identity. I’m joined by capital-raising strategist Lauren Brychell, who breaks down why access to money is rarely the true constraint. Instead, it’s often confidence, clarity, and the courage to be seen.

Together, we unpack what actually holds entrepreneurs back from raising capital, how imposter syndrome quietly caps growth, and what it looks like to step into bigger opportunities without needing to have it all figured out first.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1️⃣Access to Capital Is Rarely the Real Constraint: 

Most entrepreneurs believe money is the barrier, but Lauren explains that capital tends to follow clarity, trust, and leadership. When you articulate a compelling vision and show up with integrity, funding becomes a byproduct, not the hurdle.

2️⃣Imposter Syndrome Is a Capacity Challenge, Not a Competency Issue: 

Feeling unqualified doesn’t mean you’re unprepared. We talk about how nearly everyone raises their first dollar before they feel ready, and why waiting for total confidence often keeps capable leaders stuck on the sidelines.

3️⃣You Don’t Need to Be the Expert, You Need to Be Trustworthy: 

Investors are drawn to authenticity and transparency more than perfection. Being honest about where you are, what you’re building, and why it matters builds far more trust than trying to project expertise you don’t yet feel.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

Ep 59: Letting go of Imposter Syndrome: What Comparison is Really Telling You

Ep 76: Imposter Syndrome in Business: From Feeling Like a Fraud to Leading with Abundance

Connect with Lauren Brychell:

Lauren Brychell is a proven leader in capital raising, with a track record of raising over $75 million for commercial real estate projects. She specializes in helping real estate syndicators streamline their marketing and capital-raising efforts so growth feels strategic, not overwhelming.

🌐 Website: www.equity-elevated.com

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/equity-elevated/

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building. This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to support clear communication, guilt-free boundaries, and compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:

To explore The Exponential Entrepreneur or learn more about working together, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for outcomes resulting from the use of information shared on this podcast or on our websites. This content is not personal, medical, or mental health advice. Please consult qualified medical and mental health professionals as needed. All investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk, and use of this information is at the listener’s discretion.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep089

If you’ve ever hit a point in your business where things feel hard and you’re not sure whether you should push forward or pull back, this conversation will bring clarity. In this episode, you’ll learn how to quickly diagnose whether your business challenges are growing pains that strengthen you or signs of disordered growth that weaken your foundation.

In our Monthly Money Talk, Zen Jenn and I break down one of the most overlooked reasons businesses plateau: confusing disordered growth with healthy, capacity-expanding growth.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1️⃣Not All Hard Things Are Red Flags, Some Are Capacity Expansions: We unpack the difference between discomfort that signals misalignment and discomfort that signals growth, helping you avoid pivoting too early or forcing unsustainable strategies.

2️⃣Intentionality Is the Marker of Healthy Growth: Healthy growth includes planning, forecasting, and measured decision-making. Disordered growth shows up as reactivity, panic problem-solving, or chasing quick wins.

3️⃣Pressure Isn’t Always a Strategy Problem; It’s Often a Capacity Clue: When growth feels heavy or urgent, it’s often pointing to a gap in time, financial, emotional, relational, or energetic capacity rather than a flawed business model.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

Ep 80: When Growth Stops Feeling Good (Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn)

Ep 83: Financial Capacity: The Wealth Shift From Proving to Purposeful Growth 

Ep 84: Why Your Business Feels Hard to Grow (Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn) 

Connect with Jenn Baas:Jenn is an Outsourced CFO with over 15 years of experience helping small businesses bring ease, clarity, and strategic insight to their financial operations. She joins me each month for Monthly Money Talks with Zen Jenn and leads the Financial Leadership Labs inside The Exponential Entrepreneur.

To explore Jenn’s external CFO services, visit: peaktopeaksolutions.com

To work with Jenn inside The Exponential Entrepreneur, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Follow or subscribe wherever you’re listening so you never miss a Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building. This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to support clear communication, guilt-free boundaries, and compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:To explore The Exponential Entrepreneur or learn more about working together, DM me on Instagram→ @aleciastg

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for outcomes resulting from the use of information shared on this podcast or on our websites. This content is not personal, medical, or mental health advice. Please consult qualified medical and mental health professionals as needed. All investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk, and use of this information is at the listener’s discretion.

When you avoid a hard conversation, it doesn’t just disappear. It silently taxes your time, your energy, and your momentum. In this episode, we explore how expanding your relational capacity can completely transform how you lead and communicate.

I’m joined by real estate investor and client Sandra McEwan, a former pharmacist who rebuilt her career after inheriting her father’s properties and diving head-first into investing. She recently faced a conversation she’d been avoiding for months.  What unfolded on the other side wasn’t conflict but clarity, relief, and renewed trust. If you’ve been carrying the weight of a conversation you don’t want to have, this episode will show you how grounded, compassionate leadership creates connection instead of rupture.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

• Avoidance Has a Cost: Delaying hard conversations fragments focus, drains energy, and stalls momentum. When Sandra addressed the issue directly, her project moved forward immediately.

• Testing Your Big Assumption Accelerates Leadership: Using Immunity to Change™, Sandra tested the belief that honesty would create fallout. Instead, she discovered that steady truth builds trust and strengthens relationships.

• Compassionate Accountability Builds Trust: Clear expectations held with compassion create safety. When boundaries are grounded, leadership becomes simpler and connection deepens.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

• Ep 68: Tough Conversations Made Easier: Accountability for Leaders who Value Kindness and Compassion

• Ep 82: Emotional Capacity – Turning Reactivity into Power

• Ep 86: Relational Capacity – Boundaries That Build Trust & Compassionate Leadership

Connect with Sandra McEwan

If you're interested in learning more about investing out of state, exploring partnership opportunities, or you’re looking for a mid-term or long-term stay in one of her Augusta properties, you can reach her here:

Instagram: @sandras_rei_voyage

Sandra transitioned from a 26-year career in pharmacy into real estate investing and now manages a portfolio of small multifamily properties in Augusta, GA. She generously came on the podcast to share her experience as a client inside The Conscious Edge.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building, not one that drains their energy or demands they become someone they’re not.

As the year winds down, Jonathan and I sat together for a heartfelt, unscripted conversation about what truly shaped us in 2025 and who we’re choosing to become in 2026. If you’ve been craving a moment to pause and reorient your inner compass, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. We unpack joy, unexpected challenges, recalibration, and the moments that quietly changed everything. As Jonathan put it, “Some challenges were necessary; they revealed what truly matters.”

Before you dive in, here’s a simple reflection to ground you:What was one moment in 2025 that unexpectedly shaped you for the better?Give yourself 10 quiet seconds to answer, it will shift the way you receive this conversation.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

• Challenges Aren’t Setbacks, They’re Signposts: Both of us experienced moments that were undeniably hard… yet they became catalysts for clarity, redirection, and self-trust. We explore how reframing difficulty as “necessary growth” changes everything.

• Joy Is Found in Alignment, Not Achievement: From hosting retreats to watching clients transform to watching lifestyle shifts become “the new normal,” we talk about how fulfillment came from alignment with our values, and not all the external milestones. 

• Intention Is the Portal Into 2026: Instead of chasing the next big goal, we share the invitations we’re answering as we step into the new year: presence, expansion that feels good, and letting joy become a daily rhythm, not a reward. 

🗓️A Look Ahead: Episode 88

Next Week: Starting 2026 With the Conversation You’ve Been Avoiding

We’re kicking off 2026 with a powerful story from real estate investor Sandra McEwan, who finally had a conversation she’d been avoiding for months. What followed wasn’t conflict, but clarity, trust, and momentum. This episode shows what becomes possible when you lead with grounded honesty.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

• Ep 81: Energetic Capacity – Lead from Alignment, Not Overdrive

• Ep 47:The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas

• Ep 35: What You Need to Know Before Making a New Year’s Resolution

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building, not one that drains their energy or demands they become someone they’re not.

This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to help you communicate expectations clearly, uphold boundaries without guilt, and lead with compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:Share your takeaway or ask a question by sending a DM on Instagram → @aleciastg

If this episode brought you clarity or relief, pass it along to a friend who’s been feeling stretched thin.

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for any negative outcomes resulting from the use or application of information shared in this podcast or on our website.

This podcast and any linked materials are not intended as personal advice, medical advice, or mental health treatment. Please consult a qualified medical or mental health professional if you need such services.

Please be advised that all investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk. The use of the information and linked materials is at the listener’s own discretion and risk.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep086

Most entrepreneurs aren’t struggling with people… they’re struggling with relational capacity. If you avoid hard conversations, take responsibility for others’ emotions, or secretly resent how much you’re carrying, this episode will show you why your boundaries aren’t working and what compassionate accountability actually looks like.

In Episode 86, we break down the exact scripts, expectations, and leadership shifts that help you communicate clearly, protect your time and energy, and build relationships that feel respectful and easeful again.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

• Why Your Boundaries Aren’t Working (and What to Do Instead): Rules try to control people. Expectations create shared clarity. Boundaries communicate what you will do. This distinction is the foundation of relational capacity and changes every relationship you’re in.

• Compassion + Accountability = Trust That Lasts: Most entrepreneurs lead with compassion but avoid accountability. In this episode you’ll hear exactly how to pair “I see you” with “we agreed to this,” so you deepen connection without sacrificing yourself.

• Your Nervous System Reacts to Boundaries and So Will Theirs: When you begin holding people accountable, expect emotional responses. Some will rise. Some will step away. Your job isn’t to manage their discomfort; it’s to stay rooted in your leadership and let clarity sort your relationships for you.

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

• Ep 81: Energetic Capacity – Lead from Alignment, Not Overdrive

• Ep 82: Emotional Capacity – Turning Reactivity into Power

• Ep 84: Time Capacity – Reclaim Your Time & Lead with Aligned Focus 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building, not one that drains their energy or demands they become someone they’re not.

This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to help you communicate expectations clearly, uphold boundaries without guilt, and lead with compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us:Share your takeaway or ask a question by sending a DM on Instagram → @aleciastg

If this episode brought you clarity or relief, pass it along to a friend who’s been feeling stretched thin.

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for any negative outcomes resulting from the use or application of information shared in this podcast or on our website.

This podcast and any linked materials are not intended as personal advice, medical advice, or mental health treatment. Please consult a qualified medical or mental health professional if you need such services.

Please be advised that all investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk. The use of the information and linked materials is at the listener’s own discretion and risk.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep085

Most entrepreneurs don’t have a time-management challenge.  They have a capacity challenge. If you’re a business owner or real estate investor who feels like you’re doing all the things but still not moving the needle, this episode will help you shift out of urgency and into aligned, intentional focus. I used to say, “I don’t have time” constantly, until I realized it was actually my nervous system signaling overwhelm, not my calendar.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

• The New Productivity Paradigm: Why “I don’t have time” keeps you trapped in reactive mode and the mindset shift that immediately expands your Time Capacity.

• Where Your Time Is Really Leaking: How urgency, overbooking, and misaligned commitments quietly drain your focus and slow your growth (especially when you’re juggling business, family, and leadership).

• Aligned Rhythms That Work: A simple way to use the Leadership Rhythm (Focus Out → Focus On → Focus In) to reclaim your energy, solve for bottlenecks in your business, and prioritize what matters so business becomes sustainable and fulfilling. 

🎧 Related Episodes You May Enjoy:

• Ep 81: Energetic Capacity – Lead from Alignment, Not Overdrive

• Ep 82: Emotional Capacity – Turning Reactivity into Power

• Ep 83: Financial Capacity – The Wealth Shift from Proving to Purposeful Growth

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: 

A year-long coaching experience for women entrepreneurs who want a business that feels meaningful and sustainable—one that supports fulfillment, presence, and the life they’re building, not one that drains their energy or demands they become someone they’re not.

This work blends science-based coaching, soul-purpose alignment, and practical business strategy to help you communicate expectations clearly, uphold boundaries without guilt, and lead with compassionate accountability.

The result is meaningful financial growth, steadier emotions, and protected energy. It also gives you more time for what matters most: your children and loved ones, travel and adventure, rest, and true personal restoration.

Connect with Us: Share your takeaway or ask a question by sending a DM on Instagram → @aleciastg

If this episode brought you clarity or relief, pass it along to a friend who’s been feeling stretched thin.

Disclaimer: 

The Conscious Edge and all content published by Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is for general information, education, and entertainment only. We are not liable or responsible for any negative outcomes resulting from the use or application of information shared in this podcast or on our website.

This podcast and any linked materials are not intended as personal advice, medical advice, or mental health treatment. Please consult a qualified medical or mental health professional if you need such services.

Please be advised that all investing and entrepreneurial endeavors involve risk. The use of the information and linked materials is at the listener’s own discretion and risk.

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/084

It’s time for another Monthly Money Talk with Zen Jenn, and this month we’re going straight into the patterns that silently sabotage your growth. Joining me is fractional CFO and financial strategist Jenn Baas of Peak to Peak Solutions, the woman I consider the go-to for understanding the financial heartbeat of a healthy business.

In this episode, we unpack why your business feels harder to grow than it should, and why the real issue has nothing to do with strategy and everything to do with the hidden dysfunctions that only show up when you expand. Whether you’re raising your prices, serving more clients, or stepping into the next level of leadership; your financial foundations will amplify what’s there. Jenn and I break it all down so you can build a business that grows clean, not chaotic.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Growth exposes the dysfunction you’ve been unconsciously managing.  Small businesses can hide inefficient processes, unclear roles, and messy workflows, but as soon as you grow, those cracks widen. Jenn explains why growth doesn’t create problems… it reveals them.

2. Expand your business model before you expand your revenue.  If you want to grow sustainably, your systems, financial structure, and capacity plan must come first. Otherwise, growth becomes overwhelming instead of exciting.

3. Money is an amplifier, not a solution.  More money won’t fix what’s not working in your business. Instead, it magnifies the patterns already there. That’s why mindset and financial strategy must evolve together.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 83 - Financial Capacity: The Wealth Shift From Proving to Purposeful Growth

Episode 80 - When Growth Stops Feeling Good: How to Build a Healthy Business That Grows Sustainably with accountant Jenn Baas

Episode 47: The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas 

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/083

If you’ve ever hit an income plateau, watched money flow out as quickly as it comes in, or felt pressure to “prove yourself” financially… you’re not imagining it. Most women entrepreneurs don’t have a strategy challenge; They have a financial capacity challenge.

In this episode, I’m breaking down why your nervous system, beliefs about money, and internal definitions of safety and worthiness determine the income you can hold and how to shift from pressure and proving into purposeful, aligned growth you can actually sustain.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your financial ceiling isn’t logical, it’s emotional.  You can have the strategy, the mentor, and the plan… but if a certain income level feels unsafe, overwhelming, or tied to pressure, your nervous system will sabotage the result. We break down how income ceilings show up and how to expand them consciously.

2. Proving keeps you in overwork. Purpose creates sustainable growth.  When money becomes proof of worthiness, achievement, or being “enough,” you’ll hustle harder than necessary and still feel like it’s not enough. We explore how to shift from pressure-based goals into purposeful growth that matches your true vision.

3. Financial capacity shapes how much money you can earn, hold, and manage.  Money is more than math.  It’s memory, meaning, and emotion. When you untangle old stories about safety, scarcity, and worthiness, you create a grounded financial foundation that allows income to grow without overwhelm, self-sacrifice, or burnout.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 79: You’re Not Behind: How Capacity Shapes Your Potential

Episode 81: Energetic Capacity: Leading from Alignment, Not Overdrive

Episode 82: Emotional Capacity: How to Stop Letting Your Reactions Run the Show

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/082

In today’s episode, Alecia St. Germain brings you Session 2 of The Capacity Series all about emotional capacity.  It’s the ability to feel fully, stay present, and respond instead of react.

Emotional capacity isn’t about being calm all the time. It’s about being able to notice what you feel, stay grounded in your body, and choose your next move with intention, instead of letting old protection patterns run your day.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Protection patterns are not flaws.  They’re bids for safety.  Fight, flight, freeze, fawn, and feign all began as your nervous system’s way of protecting you. When you stop judging them, you can finally work with them rather than against them.

2. Awareness is the bridge between reactivity and regulation.  The moment you recognize what’s happening, “I’m freezing,” “I’m fawning,” “I’m in judgment,” “I’m overwhelmed,” you create the space to choose a different response.

3. You always have a choice: notice → regulate → act with alignment. Once you can name the pattern and the emotion underneath it, you can slow down, regulate your nervous system, and take aligned action instead of reactive action.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 79: You’re Not Behind: How Capacity Shapes Your Potential

Episode 81: Energetic Capacity: Leading from Alignment, Not Overdrive

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagra

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/081

When you’ve been operating at full throttle for too long, even small wins can start to feel heavy. In this first episode of The Capacity Series, Alecia St. Germain unpacks what energetic capacity really means and why more hustle isn’t the answer.

You’ll learn how to spot the subtle signs of energy leaks, why over-efforting keeps you stuck, and how to lead from alignment so that your energy, body, and business can support each other again.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. You can’t out-hustle misalignment: When you’re in sync with your purpose, energy renews itself.

2. Awareness creates expansion: Capacity grows in small, safe stretches, not big unsustainable leaps.

3. Your leadership rhythm matters: Balancing Focus Out, Focus On, and Focus In restores flow and fuels long-term success.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 79: You’re Not Behind: How Capacity Shapes Your Potential

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep080

This week kicks off our brand-new Monthly Money Talks with Zen Jenn, bringing the strategy and structure that ground the science and soul of conscious business growth.

If you’ve ever hit a point where your business growth stops feeling good, this episode is for you. Fractional CFO and financial strategist Jenn Baas (aka Zen Jenn) joins me to unpack the hidden reasons growth becomes stressful, why so many entrepreneurs feel shame about money, and how to create sustainable financial success without burnout.

We talk about the emotional and energetic side of business finances, how big assumptions drive over-expansion, and what it really takes to build a profitable business that also feels peaceful and aligned.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1️⃣ When Growth Serves a Big Assumption, It Leads You Off Course: Sometimes the drive to grow comes from an unconscious belief that bigger means better or that success will finally make you feel safe, worthy, or free. We explore how these hidden money beliefs can drive over-investment and create misaligned decisions that drain both your finances and energy.

2️⃣ Shame Keeps You Stuck, Awareness and Compassion Move You Forward: Financial shame thrives in secrecy. Jenn shares how to move from judgment to curiosity so you can manage your money with clarity and confidence. You’ll learn how to release guilt, rebuild trust with your numbers, and take small steps toward financial alignment.

3️⃣ Build a Healthy Business First and Let Growth Be the Byproduct: Sustainable business growth starts with a healthy foundation. When your business is financially organized, emotionally grounded, and energetically aligned, expansion happens naturally. Focus on creating stability and your growth will follow.

🎧 Related episodes you’ll love:

Episode 47: The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas 

Episode 49: Finding the Right Financial Experts for Your Team and Your Role as the Business Owner with Jenn Baas

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/079

Have you ever felt like you’re not living up to your potential? In this solo episode, I’m breaking down why that feeling is often a misunderstanding of what “potential” really means. You’re not behind.  You’re simply performing at your current potential for the capacity you have right now. I’ll share how to grow that capacity through the natural cycle of expansion and how the five dimensions of capacity shape what’s possible for you next.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your potential is limited only by your capacity: You’re already performing at your potential for where your capacity is today. Once you understand that, shame and judgment turn into clarity and choice.

2. Each dimension of capacity unlocks a new level of potential: Emotional, energetic, time, financial, and relational capacity all influence how much you can hold and create. Knowing which one needs attention helps you grow in a sustainable way.

3. Expansion follows a repeatable cycle: Capacity grows through awareness, activation, expansion, integration, and embodiment. It’s not a one-time fix—it’s a rhythm you can return to each time you level up.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 76:  Imposter Syndrome in Business: From Feeling Like a Fraud to Leading with Abundance

Episode 77: Fake It ’Til You Make It: Authenticity vs. Deception in Business and Leadership

Episode 78: Title: How to Stop Fearing Failure and Start Using It to Fuel Your Growth

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Discover what’s holding your business back and where to focus next to grow with clarity and confidence.

👉 www.consciousedge.com/assessment

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/078

We’ve spent the last few weeks unpacking imposter syndrome and whether “fake it ’til you make it” helps or hurts. This week, Jonathan and I take it one step further with a specific process for unpacking failure so it actually works for you instead of against you.

We’re breaking down how to process the emotions that come with failure, extract the data it reveals about your inner patterns, and make small, strategic shifts that move you closer to success. Because every entrepreneur fails, but the ones who learn how to interpret failure are the ones who grow faster and more sustainably.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Treat success and failure equally: Most of us obsess over what went wrong but barely pause to celebrate what went right. Giving success and failure equal attention helps you build awareness, balance perspective, and create emotional resilience.

2. Learn how to process failure instead of avoiding it: Pause before jumping into fix-it mode. Feel the emotions, notice the stories your mind tells you, and look at what the data of failure is revealing about your inner patterns and beliefs.

3. Failure is rarely all or nothing: When something doesn’t work, it doesn’t mean it’s over, it often means you’re just a few tweaks away from breakthrough. Seeing nuance helps you move forward faster and with more self-trust.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 76:  Imposter Syndrome in Business: From Feeling Like a Fraud to Leading with Abundance

Episode 77: Fake It ’Til You Make It: Authenticity vs. Deception in Business and Leadership

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Discover what’s holding your business back and where to focus next to grow with clarity and confidence.

👉 www.consciousedge.com/assessment

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/077

“Fake it ’til you make it.” Is it a valuable mindset hack for overcoming imposter syndrome — or does it make you feel like a fraud? In this episode, Jonathan and I break down the real intention behind the phrase, how to recognize when you’re using it productively versus deceptively, and how to find the angle that’s true for you so you can lead with integrity and alignment.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. “Fake it till you make it” is about practice, not pretending. We unpack the real origin of the phrase as a way to practice new, healthy behaviors before they feel natural in recovery communities. It’s not about pretending you’re someone you’re not; it’s about embodying the habits and mindset of who you’re becoming.

2. 2. The difference between alignment and manipulation. If “faking it” feels deceptive, that’s a signal you’re out of alignment. Authentic confidence grows when your actions match your values, even if you’re stretching into a new identity. Manipulation and posturing, on the other hand, create dissonance and others will pick up on it too.

3. 3. Find your true angle.You don’t need to have all the answers. Reframe “fake it” as “find the version of this that’s true for me right now.” When you anchor in authenticity and intention, you naturally show up with the confidence, credibility, and energy that attract trust.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 76:  Imposter Syndrome in Business: From Feeling Like a Fraud to Leading with Abundance

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Discover what’s holding your business back and where to focus next to grow with clarity and confidence.

👉 www.consciousedge.com/assessment

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/076

If you’ve ever worried someone might “find you out,” this episode is for you. Jonathan and I unpack imposter syndrome, why it shows up even when you’re successful, and how it keeps you trapped in the exhausting loop of proving yourself.

We explore the psychology behind feeling like a fraud, the relationship between perfectionism and the fear of failure, and how to shift from self-criticism to mindful self-compassion. You’ll learn practical ways to collect evidence of your success, challenge limiting assumptions, and lead your business from a place of abundance and peace instead of fear.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Imposter Syndrome is rooted in big assumptions that keep you proving yourself. Even with evidence of success, your brain hunts for flaws to confirm the story that you’re not enough. When you spot those patterns, you can rewrite them and finally lead from abundance instead of fear.

2. Growth requires a healthy relationship with failure. Perfectionism convinces you that mistakes are dangerous, but failure is just feedback. When you see it as data, not a verdict, you create space to stretch past your perceived ceiling and find peace in your own growth.

3. Knowing you’re enough is the foundation of sustainable success. When you stop trying to earn your place and start trusting your value, everything changes. Receiving praise, help, or payment isn’t arrogance, t’s alignment.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 30: When Opportunity Knocks and You’re Not Ready

Episode 19: What Mindfulness Actually is and How to Use It Daily

Episode 17: The Journey to Release Shame

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/075

Did you know 65% of businesses fail within the first 10 years? I don’t want you to be part of that statistic. In this episode, I’m talking about what it really takes to build a business that goes the distance. It’s not just about making money.  It’s about leadership, alignment, and the financial habits that keep your business sustainable and fulfilling for the long haul.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your business needs more than money. Cash flow matters, but real sustainability comes when you grow into the leader your business needs and build financial habits that support both your goals and your values.

2. Hitting pause isn’t optional. Slowing down to review your numbers, your systems, and your capacity isn’t a luxury. It’s how you protect yourself from burnout and make sure your business supports the life you actually want.

3. Growth takes more than hustle.  Scaling isn’t about piling on more work. Without structure and support, you’ll keep hitting the same plateau. The right systems free you up to thrive as a whole human, not just a business owner.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 47: The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start by filling out my Conscious Business Alignment Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

I’ll personally review your responses and share where things may be out of alignment, what opportunities you might be missing, and where it may be time to invest in resources—whether that’s hiring a team, building infrastructure, or developing your leadership and mindset. 

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep074

In this episode, I catch up with former client Veronica Ferrante, once called the “Queen of the Poconos” and now expanding her realm into new markets. When we worked together, Veronica wrestled with a belief that if she couldn’t be the best, she should quit altogether. Years later, that same belief has been reshaped into her unique value proposition: delivering her very best in hospitality, every single time.

Her story is especially inspiring for women entrepreneurs and real estate investors who want to grow wealth without burning out. From navigating the chaos of COVID-era short-term rentals, when “any house would rent,” to expanding her company, Ideal Stays, nationwide, Veronica shows how alignment and mindset shifts echo long after coaching ends.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your limiting beliefs hold clues to your purpose: Veronica’s “be the best or quit” mindset once drained her, but it revealed her drive to set a new hospitality standard in short-term rentals.

2. The market doesn’t reward average anymore: During COVID, renters “just wanted to go anywhere.” Today, only short-term rentals with strong amenities, thoughtful design, and professional management succeed, especially for women entrepreneurs and investors who want passive income without constant stress.

3. Alignment ripples outward: By redefining “best” as bringing her best, Veronica built a team that now carries her standards forward and often executes them even better than she could alone. As she says in the episode, “I realized being the best wasn’t about me. It’s about creating experiences where my team often does it even better than I could.” The inner work starts with you, and it shapes the people you hire and the clients you attract.

🎧Resource mentioned in this episode:

Follow Veronica (Nica) on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/nicaferrante/

Follow  Ideal Stays: https://www.instagram.com/ideal.stays/

Check out Ideal Stays: https://www.idealstaysusa.com/

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start with the Conscious Business Alignment Assessment. It takes about 10 minutes and pinpoints where you’re out of alignment, what to prioritize next, and where to invest (team, systems, leadership). I personally review every submission and send feedback within 3 business days.

Take the Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep073

If you’ve ever caught yourself comparing your business to someone else’s or judging how another entrepreneur markets themselves, this episode is for you. Jonathan and I dive into how judgment, of both others and of ourselves, influences the way we show up. We talk about the fear of being judged, why that fear holds us back from sharing the stories that create real connection, and how to check in with your own intentions before you decide what to share.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Judgment makes you hold back:  When you question other entrepreneurs’ motives, it can creep into your own decisions and cause you to hold back. The stories and experiences that could help your audience most never get shared.

2. Your people need connection more than perfection:  Some will resonate with what you share and some will judge, but your audience needs those points of connection to feel seen. When we shared openly, albeit reluctantly, about neurodivergence, listenership spiked significantly. That’s the power of showing up authentically for the people who need you.

3. Check your intentions, not theirs: You’ll never truly know if someone else is sharing from authenticity or manipulation, you only see their actions. What matters is clarifying your own intentions and trusting others to discern for themselves.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 12: Processing What You Think Other Believe About You

Episode 7: Choosing Self-Compassion Over Self-Criticism

Episode 2: What to Do When Judgment Steals Your Joy

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start with the Conscious Business Alignment Assessment. It takes about 10 minutes and pinpoints where you’re out of alignment, what to prioritize next, and where to invest (team, systems, leadership). I personally review every submission and send feedback within 3 business days.

Take the Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Seattle-based lender Melissa Korda funded 209 investor loans / $118M in 2024. After 20 years in collegiate/pro sports (master’s in Kinesiology) and years of flips, COVID ended the “safe” path and she rebuilt from the ground up as a loan officer. Today she holds 3 long-term rentals, invests passively, and teaches women how to use private lending and creative capital to build aligned wealth. We get into the pride-swallowing first step, why joy is the compass, and how our dinner-table talks about college, AI, and success have changed.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Learn as you go, with guidance, or you’ll never start:  You will never feel fully “ready.” Get educated, get a mentor or coach, then move. The real growth happens in motion. Melissa’s pivot worked because she took the next honest step and let each rep become tuition for the bigger deals. The gift in every project, regardless of the check you cash, is the capability you build. Those lessons are what make the larger, later deals run smoothly.

2. Redefine success, for you and your kids: Our households aren’t having the same “college or bust” talk we grew up with. Trades are valuable, entrepreneurship is learn-by-doing, and yes, AI is reshaping what’s needed. We even call out current data around computer-science grads and why the “right path” is the one that fits the human in front of you. 

3. Traditional paths rarely create real wealth, creative ones do: From Melissa’s lending seat, we unpack why MLS-only hunting and bank-only financing weren’t built to help you break the mold and how alternative lenders and relationship-driven deal flow open better opportunities.

🎧Resource mentioned in this episode:

Get in touch with Melissa: mkorda@cvlending.com

Follow Melissa on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/melissakorda.lender.re/

Wondering how coaching could support you?

Start with the Conscious Business Alignment Assessment. It takes about 10 minutes and pinpoints where you’re out of alignment, what to prioritize next, and where to invest (team, systems, leadership). I personally review every submission and send feedback within 3 business days.

Take the Assessment: www.consciousedge.com/assessment

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Katie shares how she helps entrepreneurs leverage real estate not just as a place to operate, but as a powerful tool for adding income streams, unlocking hidden incentives, and creating long-term wealth—even beyond the day you exit your business. Having closed her first deal at just 15, she’s spent decades making real estate development more accessible for business owners. Her work is deeply purpose-driven, answering her own calling to help others use real estate as a foundation for growth, stability, and legacy.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Add income streams through ownership: Stop thinking of rent as just an expense. Owning or strategically structuring your business location can turn your space into a wealth-building asset.
   

2. Leverage incentives you didn’t know existed: Katie reveals the economic development and community-based programs most small business owners never hear about—and how they can lighten your debt load and accelerate growth.
   

3. Plan for a wealth-building exit: Whether you sell your business or pass it on, holding the real estate keeps income flowing and creates powerful options for your retirement and legacy.

🎧Resource mentioned in this episode:

To learn more about how Katie can support you visit https://www.katiekim.com/.

FREE Real Estate Development Deal Checklist – https://www.katiekim.com/checklist

Follow Katie on Social Media: @TheKatieKim

Interested in Working Together?

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women in real estate and entrepreneurship who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Working with your partner can be incredibly rewarding and incredibly challenging. In this episode, I sit down with my client, coach, and fellow entrepreneur Amanda Rockrohr, who helps couples navigate the unique dynamics of running a business together. She shares not only what it takes to thrive in business with your partner, but also the powerful shifts she’s made in the last year through coaching.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Doing business as a couple requires intentional structure: Amanda explains how she and her husband clarified roles, set boundaries, and created annual retreats so they could stay aligned in both love and business.

2. Confidence comes from doing the inner work: Before coaching, Amanda struggled with indecision and leaned heavily on others for validation. She realized the answer wasn’t going to come from another program or tactic, it was her mindset.  By uncovering her Big Assumptions, she shifted from second-guessing every decision to trusting her voice and leading with confidence.

3. Confusion isn’t always what it seems: Amanda realized she was unconsciously using “confusion” as a way to control situations. Once she saw this pattern, she not only gained clarity in her own opinions, but also began communicating more clearly with her husband.  Ultimately, it transformed the way they collaborate and make choices together.

🎧Resource mentioned in this episode:

Doing Business as a Couple Free Resources https://stan.store/doingbusinessasacouple

Follow Amanda on Instagram: @amandarockrohr

Follow Doing Business as Couple on Instagram: @doingbusinessasacouple

Interested in Working Together?

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women in real estate and entrepreneurship who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us: Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep069

Motherhood changes everything, including how you run your business. In this episode, I share the lessons I wish I had known before becoming a mom, the hidden assumptions that keep women playing small, and the mindset shifts that make it possible to thrive as both a caregiver and an entrepreneur. Whether you’re planning for kids, raising littles, caring for school-aged children, or supporting aging parents, this conversation will give you perspective and tools to grow a business that truly supports your life.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Plan for your stage of life: I wish I had known how much motherhood would impact my energy, time, and business decisions. Each stage—planning, preschoolers, school-age kids, or caregiving parents—requires a different kind of strategy.

2. Don’t fall for the either/or trap: So many women believe they have to choose between being a good mom and building a thriving business. That assumption keeps you from finding solutions that allow you to design a business that supports both your family and your ambitions.

3. Support isn’t optional, it’s essential: If I could go back, I’d plan for and invest in help sooner, whether through childcare, business hires, or financial buffers. Support creates freedom, prevents burnout, and allows your business to grow with you.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 22: The Real Reasons You Don’t Have Time

Episode 24: Creating a Calendar that Feels Fun

Interested in Working Together?

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women in real estate and entrepreneurship who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep068

As entrepreneurs, one of the hardest leadership skills to master is holding people accountable, especially when you value kindness and worry about coming across as “mean.” In this episode, Jonathan Dugger and I unpack compassionate accountability and how to use it to improve team performance, build trust, and address conflict without burning bridges. You’ll learn how to stay grounded in your values, manage your emotions before a tough conversation, and create a workplace culture where both kindness and results thrive.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Compassion isn’t weakness, it’s active leadership: True compassion in business means you pair empathy with accountability. It’s not about being nice, it’s about creating positive change, protecting your standards, and helping people grow.

2. Be self-aware before you confront: Before giving feedback, take a moment to check in with yourself. Identify your emotions, clarify your expectations, and separate facts from assumptions. A self-aware leader communicates more clearly, stays calm under pressure, and avoids unnecessary conflict.

3. Assume positive intent, but don’t avoid the truth:You can care about your team and address performance issues directly. Ignoring the problem doesn’t protect relationships, it erodes them.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 19: What Mindfulness Actually Is and How to Use it Daily

Interested in Working Together?

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women in real estate and entrepreneurship who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep067

I’m Alecia St. Germain, founder of The Conscious Edge and host of this podcast. If you're using private lending to grow your wealth, you need to know this: even savvy investors can fall for a polished pitch. In this episode, I talk with Melissa Palmer, former federal agent and behavioral scientist, who now dedicates her work to protecting investors from fraud and fuzzy facts. 

After losing a significant sum in a deal gone sideways, she used her investigative training and firsthand experience to build a safer system for evaluating lending opportunities. This is a must-listen if you're handing over cash and want to do it with confidence.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. What you don’t know can cost you: Melissa shares how even with deep experience, she lost money and how that moment reshaped her entire approach to investing.

2.  Create your own “safe lending system”: Learn the framework Melissa uses to help her clients vet borrowers, structure due diligence, and reduce emotion-driven decisions.

3. Purpose protects your profits: Start with your vision. Know what kind of impact you want your money to have because clarity creates boundaries that keep you (and your wallet) safe.

🎧Resource mentioned in this episode:

Connect with Melissa Palmer on Instagram @melpalmer.me

To learn more about Capital Verified services visit https://capitalverified.com/

Interested in Working Together?

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women in real estate and entrepreneurship who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep066

I’m Alecia St. Germain, founder of The Conscious Edge and host of this podcast. If you caught last week’s episode on mid-year money check-ins, you know I’ve been thinking a lot about the mindset behind our financial decisions. So I invited Whitney Elkins-Hutten to join me and take that conversation even further.

Whitney helps high-income earners and business owners transform their active income into long-term, passive wealth. In this episode, she shares how to shift from reactive decisions to a proactive, aligned investment strategy, especially in unpredictable markets. If you're a woman building wealth through business or real estate, this conversation will help you play smarter, not just harder.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Invest with alignment, not urgency: Whitney shares why hitting pause on investing isn’t failure, it’s wisdom. A strong investment strategy starts with your values, not the latest trend.

2. Understand your capital stack: Don’t let industry jargon keep you from making empowered decisions. Whitney breaks down how understanding where your money sits in a deal helps you reduce risk and protect your future.

3. Preservation fuels peace of mind: Cash flow, liquidity, and capital preservation may not sound sexy, but they’re what let you sleep at night and show up strong for your business, family, and goals.

🎧Resource mentioned in this episode:

Read Money for Tomorrow with the author herself!

Whitney Elkins-Hutten, author of Money for Tomorrow, is hosting a special book club this August to help you take aligned, confident steps toward financial freedom.

Join the book club to read Money for Tomorrow alongside other purpose-driven investors and get exclusive access to live discussions with Whitney where you can ask questions and go deeper into the strategies from the book.

👉 Sign up now at www.ashwealth.com/bookclub and start building wealth that lasts on your terms.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep065

We’re halfway through the year and if things aren’t going the way you planned financially, this episode will be a breath of fresh clarity. Alecia walks you through her mid-year budget review, shares where mindset derailed revenue goals, and highlights why cutting costs isn’t always the answer. You’ll learn how your spending and earning patterns often mirror your beliefs and how to take back control without sacrificing your vision.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your financials reveal your mindset: Alecia shares how over-preparing and over-delivering stemmed from scarcity, not strategy. If you’re feeling stuck, your spending might tell you why.

2. Cutting costs isn’t always the answer: You can only trim so much before it starts costing you more. Sometimes, the real solution is to focus on making more money, not doing more yourself.

3. Budgets should reflect your vision: Whether your goal is a steady salary or more personal time, your budget can be your guide, but only if you set it up intentionally and review it often.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 64: Overcommitted and Overwhelmed? How to Steady Yourself Without Burning Down Your Business www.consciousedge.com/ep064

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

👉 Listen to the secret bonus episode here: www.consciousedge.com/secret

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep064

When everything hits at once: deadlines, family emergencies, client needs, and unexpected personal stuff, it’s easy to feel like the only solution is to burn it all down. In this episode, I share what to do when overcommitment leads to overwhelm and how to unravel it without blowing up everything you’ve worked for.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Burnout starts with good intentions: Your desire to be helpful and supportive is genuine, but without limits, it can backfire. When you overcommit, you risk dropping the ball and appearing flaky or unreliable, which is the exact opposite of how you want to show up.

2. Boundaries without flexibility don’t work: While strong boundaries are important, rigid ones can backfire. Learning to pause, prioritize, and renegotiate allows you to recover your time without damaging relationships or your reputation.

3. Communicate Before You Cancel: Whether it’s a missed deadline or needing to transition a client, how you handle overwhelm matters more than avoiding it entirely. Communicating clearly and offering solutions can build trust, even in the hard moments.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 3:What to Do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed (www.consciousedge.com/ep003)

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur (www.consciousedge.com/apply):  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer (www.consciousedge.com/podcast-disclaimer)

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

👉 Listen to the secret bonus episode here

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep063

In this follow-up to last week’s conversation, Jonathan and I share practical tools we use to stay productive and grounded as neurodivergent entrepreneurs. From non-traditional to-do lists to reframing your “quirks” as business superpowers, this episode is packed with real talk, compassion, and relief that you’re not doing it wrong, you just need a different approach.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. You don’t need to fix yourself, you need better strategies: Rigid routines and “success formulas” may not work for your brain. That doesn’t mean you can’t thrive. It means you need your own rules.

2. Mindfulness is a powerful tool:  Being aware of what works for you (and what doesn’t) without judgment creates the freedom to build a life and business that feels good.

3. Neurodivergence is a business asset: Inattentiveness can fuel imagination, impulsivity leads to bold action, and hyperactivity supports multitasking and creativity. The key is to channel it well.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 19: What Mindfulness Actually Is and How to Use it Daily

Episode 62: Why Focus Feels So Hard: Entrepreneurship, ADHD, and Getting Things Done (Part 1)

📃Resources mentioned in this podcast:

Study: Verheul et al. (2016). ADHD Symptoms and Entrepreneurial Orientation of Small Firm Owners. 
Article: “How To Harness Neurodiversity: ADHD, Focus And Multitasking” by Luciana Paulise (Forbes, March 21, 2024)

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

👉 ⁠Listen to the secret bonus episode here⁠

Get full show notes at ⁠www.consciousedge.com/ep063⁠

If you’ve ever wondered why you struggle with focus, you’re not alone and you’re not broken. In this candid conversation, Jonathan and I open up about our own experiences navigating entrepreneurship with neurodivergent minds. From late-night creativity to hyperfocus and burnout, we explore why traditional productivity tips don’t always work for people like us and what does. This is part one of a two-part series.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. You’re not lazy, you’re wired differently: Entrepreneurs are 4x more likely to be neurodivergent. If you’ve ever felt like the rules don’t work for you, it’s not just in your head.  

2. Focus requires the right environment, not more discipline: Sometimes the secret isn’t pushing harder, it’s changing your context so your natural gifts can thrive.

3. Judgment kills productivity: Self-awareness without self-judgment is the secret to finding a work rhythm that actually works for you.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

⁠Episode 19: What Mindfulness Actually Is and How to Use it Daily⁠

Learn more about ⁠The Exponential Entrepreneur:⁠  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

⁠Disclaimer⁠

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to ⁠hello@consciousedge.com⁠ or⁠ DM @aleciastg on Instagram

This episode isn’t on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you usually listen. It’s a private episode I created to help you move through resistance fast using the same coaching questions I ask my clients—plus, you’ll get access to a free AI-powered coaching tool that gives you personalized insights on the spot. 

👉 Listen to the secret bonus episode here

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep061

When an unexpected opportunity lands in your lap, how do you know if you should say yes? In this episode, I sit down with my co-host Jonathan Dugger to unpack the wild story of how he bought a golf course, even though he wasn’t a golfer and had no idea how to run one. We talk about what happens when you make a bold move, even if it starts from ignorance more than courage, and how to write your own rulebook when the “right” way doesn’t work. This one’s for the risk-takers, the curious, and anyone figuring it out as they go.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Timing is never ideal, but it does matter: While you can’t wait for perfect timing, knowing what’s going on in your life and market can help you assess the real cost of a new venture and keep you mindful of when you might be susceptible to self-sabotage.

2. Forget the rulebook and write your own: What works on paper or in another business model may not fit your reality. Success often comes from tuning into your audience and trusting your instincts.

3. Whether your decision comes from courage or ignorance, making it and figuring it out is still a way forward: Not every leap is strategic, but taking action and learning on the fly can build resilience and uncover your real capabilities.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 4: The Journey of Creating Wealth

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

This episode isn’t on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you usually listen. It’s a private episode I created to help you move through resistance fast using the same coaching questions I ask my clients—plus, you’ll get access to a free AI-powered coaching tool that gives you personalized insights on the spot. 

👉 Listen to the secret bonus episode here

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep060

Sometimes the hardest decisions in business are about what to walk away from.  Not because you failed, but because holding on is no longer aligned. In this episode, I walk you through the exact reflection process I used with a former client when she realized a past investment was draining her time, energy, and joy. If you’re struggling to know whether to push through or cut your losses, this is the episode to help you get clarity.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Letting Go of the Way It Was Supposed to Be: Staying stuck in “it should have worked” keeps you tied to ego and victimhood. Moving forward starts with radical acceptance of what is.
   

2. Be Patient While You Clean Up Past Decisions: Sometimes you’re not lost, you’re just in the middle of the recovery phase. Progress might look like rest, regrouping, or slow pruning before real growth returns.
   

3. Use Thought Exercises to Find Clarity: Run through different scenarios in your mind and pay attention to how each one feels. What brings peace? What drains you? That’s your inner compass guiding you toward alignment.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

This episode isn’t on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you usually listen. It’s a private episode I created to help you move through resistance fast using the same coaching questions I ask my clients—plus, you’ll get access to a free AI-powered coaching tool that gives you personalized insights on the spot. 

👉 Listen to the secret bonus epsiode here

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep059

I just returned from my favorite conference, InvestHER Con, and this episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what nearly derailed my talk, the mindset spiral I had to work through, and the breakthrough that changed everything. If you’ve ever worried someone else does what you do better, let me share the truth about what comparison is really trying to show you. I’ll walk you through my own moment of imposter syndrome and how, by staying grounded in authenticity, it became one of my most transformative professional moments to date and how you can do it too.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Comparison is a Clue, Not a Curse: Instead of making yourself small, use comparison to highlight what you need.  Whether it’s preparation, support, or connection. It’s often your brain's cry for safety, not proof that you’re unworthy.

2. Your Experience Makes You Credible: It's easy to discount lived experience in favor of someone else’s credentials, but your voice, perspective, and story are uniquely powerful when you let them be fully expressed.

3. Connection Beats Competition Every Time: I used to think I had to be the best in the room to be worthy, but everything changed when I leaned into connection instead of comparison. When you stop trying to prove yourself and start showing up authentically, you create space for powerful relationships, unexpected support, and true confidence.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 30: When Opportunity Knocks and You’re Not Ready

Episode17: The Journey to Release Shame

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

This episode isn’t on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere else you usually listen. It’s a private episode I created to help you move through resistance fast using the same coaching questions I ask my clients—plus, you’ll get access to a free AI-powered coaching tool that gives you personalized insights on the spot. 

👉 Listen to the secret bonus epsiode here

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep058

Ever feel like the things you're most insecure about, being too much, not enough, or wanting to get it “right,” are holding you back in business? In this episode, I share how the very things you see as weaknesses are likely rooted in your deepest values and can become your greatest strengths. We’ll look at common “big assumptions” that fuel perfectionism, imposter syndrome, procrastination, and burnout.  You’ll learn how to spot and reframe them with more compassion, and take aligned action that feels good, not forced. This is your permission slip to stop fixing and start owning who you are.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. What you fear says a lot about what you value: Big assumptions like “I’ll be seen as a fraud” or “I’ll waste time and money” often point to core values like authenticity, humility, and intentionality.

2. Your superpowers can work for you, or against you: Without intention, your strengths like high standards or deep thinking can spiral into burnout, overworking, or hiding. With a small shift, they can become your greatest assets.

3.  You don’t need to fix yourself, you need to align: Success comes from operating in alignment with your values, not from avoiding what you fear. That means acting with purpose, owning who you are, and embracing the lessons along the way.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 46: A New Approach to Exposing Your Big Assumptions

Episode 6: Why You Self-Sabotage

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep057

If you’ve ever found yourself running from task to task, wondering where all your time and money went, even though you're working harder than ever, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down one of the most important mindset shifts entrepreneurs need to make when transitioning from employee to CEO: how you value your time.

Too many business owners are still thinking in hourly rates, but your time is not just a cost, it’s one of your greatest assets. I’ll share how shifting the way I price, structure my offers, and look at financials helped me create a more sustainable business that actually supports the life I want.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your time isn’t free—even when you love what you do - Undercharging or over-giving leads to burnout, not balance. Until you start treating your time as one of your most valuable deliverables, your business won’t feel sustainable.

1. Profit is the byproduct of alignment - When your pricing, delivery model, and business structure reflect both your values and your clients’ values, you create a win-win, and a path to sustainable profitability.

1. Think like a CEO, not just a service provider - Learning how to separate cost of delivery from general expenses (thanks to our financial masterclass with Jen Boss) helps you price smarter, invest wisely, and finally get paid like a business owner.

🎧 Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you:

Episode 47: The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas

Episode 49: Finding the Right Financial Experts for Your Team and Your Role as the Business Owner with Jenn Baas

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep056

Leadership isn't just about strategy, it’s about energy. And one of the biggest energy shifters in any room? Your words. In this episode, Jonathan Dugger and I dive deep into the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways your language can either lift your team up or completely flatten their momentum.

We explored the difference between statements that spark collaboration and those that quietly shut it down. We unpacked how even well-meaning phrases can demotivate, and why your self-talk as a leader sets the tone for everything else.

This one’s for the leaders who want to create a culture where people feel trusted, challenged, and seen—not micromanaged or silenced.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your Words Create Culture:  Every phrase you use, especially during challenges, either expands your team’s capacity or constricts it. Choose language that fosters trust and ownership.

2. Self-Talk Is a Leadership Skill: If your internal dialogue is rooted in fear or pressure, it will leak into how you lead. Mindful self-talk leads to mindful leadership.

3. Empowerment Starts with Intentional Word Choices: Simple shifts like “Let’s figure this out together” or “I trust you can handle this” turn uncertainty into opportunity and cultivate true collaboration.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 55: Want to Sound More Confident? Change These Words In Your Vocabulary

Episode 19: What Mindfulness Actually Is and How to Use it Daily

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way. 

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep055

Let’s talk about something sneaky that’s holding you back—your language. In this episode, Jonathan Dugger and I unpacked how the words we casually toss around can quietly chip away at our confidence and authority (yes, even those of us who coach and lead!).

From saying “actually” when we didn’t need to, to apologizing just for having a perspective, we got real about the ways we unintentionally play small—and how to flip the script.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Your words shape your confidence: Language isn’t just communication—it’s identity. When you use qualifiers, you signal doubt (to yourself and others).
   

2. Mindfulness matters: Being intentional with your language helps you show up more clearly, authentically, and powerfully in every conversation.
   

3. Self-compassion is non-negotiable: We all slip into old patterns—notice it, name it, and choose differently. Growth starts with grace.

This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever said “just” or “honestly” and wondered why your message didn’t land the way you hoped. It’s time to speak like the leader you actually are. (See what I did there?)

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 51: Breaking Through the B.S. Blocks: From Burnout to Bare Minimum Magic

Episode 7: Choose Self-Compassion Over Self-Criticism

Episode 19: What Mindfulness Actually Is and How to Use it Daily

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes and the 7 Tips for Dealing with Uncertainty at www.consciousedge.com/ep054

Uncertainty. It's the thing nobody wants but every entrepreneur will face. In this episode, Jonathan Dugger and I cracked open what really happens when the ground shifts beneath our feet—and how to rise, not retreat.

We talked about why freezing up (aka playing it safe) feels like the default, and how to flip the script so you can lead, grow, and invest with clarity—even when the future feels foggy. If the market feels shaky or life is throwing curveballs, take a breath. You were built for this. And there's so much growth waiting on the other side.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Adaptability is your unfair advantage. The ability to pivot, reimagine, and let go of outdated strategies? That’s how you stay ahead while others stall out.
   

2. Being financially prepared = real power. When you’re ready, you can move when others are stuck. Money gives you options. Options create opportunity.
   

3. Lead with alignment, not fear. When your choices match your values, you’ll not only feel more confident—you’ll attract the right deals, people, and momentum.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 51: Breaking Through the B.S. Blocks: From Burnout to Bare Minimum Magic

Episode 45: What White Knuckling It On An Airplane has to do with Taking Risks in Your Business

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep053

In this episode, I sit down with the amazing Zen Jenn (aka Jenn Baas) to talk about the real stuff that doesn’t get enough airtime—like how to actually manage your money as a real estate investor without flying blind or feeling stuck in feast-or-famine mode.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Tracking your numbers is non-negotiable – Understanding your financials is key to making smart, strategic real estate decisions.
   

2. A sustainable, goal-aligned business model is the real win – When your investments support your life (not just your bank account), success feels better and lasts longer.
   

3. Leaving the 9–5? You need a plan, not just passion – Whether you're transitioning to full-time investing or navigating the ups and downs of commission-based income, budgeting and financial clarity are essential to building steady, reliable income.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 38: A Cautionary Tale About Bookkeeping and Finances in Your Business

Episode 47: The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas

Episode 49: Finding the Right Financial Experts for Your Team and Your Role as the Business Owner with Jenn Baas

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:
Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

You deserve to operate from a place of joy and fulfillment… place that’s totally aligned with who you are and what you want in the world. I’m here to help, my love!

Grab your Free Edge Strategy Session Here: www.consciousedge.com/schedule  

Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep052  

If you've ever felt stuck waiting for the "perfect" moment to take action in your business or personal growth, this episode is for you. This is a raw, behind-the-scenes look at what a year of podcasting and business has taught Jonathan and me. Spoiler: growth doesn’t come from planning—it comes from doing. We share the messy lessons, the wins, the pivots, and why finding the right people to walk with you changes everything.

📝 Top 3 Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Action Over Perfection: Waiting for the perfect plan can hold you back. Taking action, even imperfectly, leads to growth.

2. The Power of Collaboration: Surrounding yourself with the right people can make the journey more enjoyable and successful.

3. Balance is Essential: Prioritizing personal well-being is crucial to sustain long-term success without burnout.

🎧Podcast episodes related to this one that might interest you: 

Episode 1: Redefining Wealth and Finding Joy: A New Podcast Seeks to Change Your Life 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur:  A full year coaching experience for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram

📝Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep051

If you've ever felt overwhelmed, blocked, or like you're about to break under the weight of “too much,” this one’s for you. This is me, showing up, messy and real, because sometimes that’s what it takes to move forward.

I’m sharing: 

• Why it’s important to do the reps when it’s hard
• How letting go of perfection will help 
• What navigating emotional overload looks like for me
• How and why old stories resurface under pressure
• Why sitting with discomfort helps you move forward

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Disclaimer

You deserve to operate from a place of joy and fulfillment… place that’s totally aligned with who you are and what you want in the world. I’m here to help, my love!

www.consciousedge.com/schedule  

Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep050  

In today's solo episode, Why Some People Build a Business and Create Wealth Reading Books While Others Can't, I’m diving deep into a pattern I see all the time. Why is it that some people can read a book, immediately take action, and build incredible success while others get stuck, frustrated, and never move forward? We’ll talk about the real reason this happens, what role mindset and internal blocks play, and how you can finally break through and step fully into the success you’re meant for.

The summary: 

• Some people expect books and programs to deliver a “secret sauce” but success often depends on how you apply the information.

• Business fundamentals are simple; the "magic" is in how you act on them, not in constantly chasing new methods.

• Inner resistance, fear, and unconscious beliefs ("your big assumptions") often block you from taking action.

• It's not that the strategy or tool is broken, it's that fears of failure, rejection, judgment, or success itself can sabotage execution.

• Coaches and mentors share their methods openly, but it's up to individuals to overcome their personal mindset challenges.

• True success demands taking personal responsibility rather than blaming coaches, strategies, or external circumstances.

• Entrepreneurship requires becoming the kind of person who can hold bigger success, not just knowing the steps.

• Knowledge is easy to access. Real growth comes from doing the inner work to align your mindset with your goals.

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep049 

Resources:

The Journey from Compliance-based Bookkeeping to Powerful Finance-driven Business Decisions with Accountant Jenn Baas

If you’ve ever wondered whether you need a bookkeeper, an accountant, a CFO, or a CPA, or even what the difference is between all of them, this conversation is going to bring so much clarity. Jenn breaks it all down with such ease, and we even dive into the role you need to play as the CEO of your business when it comes to your numbers. Spoiler alert: it's not about doing it all yourself, it's about building the right team and knowing enough to make powerful, informed decisions.

Financial Team Building Info: 

• Differences Between Financial Roles: Definitions and distinctions between bookkeepers, accountants, CPAs, and CFOs. What they do and when you need each one.

• When and How to Hire Financial Help: Hear how to know when it’s the right time to bring in help and how to check if they’re doing a good job.

• What a Business Owner’s Role Really Is: Alecia and Jenn discuss how being the CEO means being connected to your numbers. You don’t need to be doing it yourself, but not abdicating responsibility either.

• Common Mistakes and Fixes: Examples of miscategorized expenses, bad data transfers, and how to catch mistakes (like reviewing P&L detail reports).

• The Power of Understanding Your Financials: Shifting from a reactive to a proactive financial mindset, Hear how knowing your numbers supports intentional decision-making.

• Red Flags in Bookkeeping: What to look for when hiring and evaluating bookkeepers, including the importance of referrals and having some oversight.

• The Myth of the One-Person Financial Unicorn: Why it's unrealistic to expect one person to do everything well, and how assembling the right team is key.



• Access to Jenn’s Expertise: Announcement of a live workshop with Jenn on May 20th to help business owners better understand their financials and ask questions directly.

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep048 

Get first dibs on a spot at the next retreat

This episode is extra special because we’re finally sharing all the incredible takeaways from our recent retreat, an experience that sparked deep breakthroughs, unexpected transformations, and new collaborations. What started as an idea for a restorative retreat turned into a space where entrepreneurs uncovered mindset shifts, redefined values, and built momentum in both business and life. Let’s dive into what made this retreat so powerful and why we’re already planning the next one!

Key Takeaways from the Retreat

 Personal Breakthroughs Were Just as Powerful as Business Growth

• Participants experienced deep shifts in mindset and clarity about their goals, not just in business but in personal well-being.
• Many walked away with newfound alignment between their values and their professional lives.

The Power of Connection & Collaboration

• For many, this was the first time they were in a room with entrepreneurs from different industries, which sparked new ideas and unexpected partnerships.
• The retreat led to ongoing collaborations, including a mastermind group and new business offerings.

The Impact of a Restorative, Judgment-Free Space

• The retreat was intentionally designed for clarity and alignment, and participants reported feeling more refreshed and inspired than they had in a long time.
• Daily movement, healthy meals, and holistic wellness practices (like guided meditation and sound baths) played a key role in this transformation.

Less Structure, More Flow Leads to Bigger Breakthroughs

• The open format of the retreat allowed people to dive deep into their values, assumptions about money, and areas of personal growth.
• By leaving space for organic conversations and creativity, participants generated actionable ideas quickly—some even took action within days of returning home.

Next Retreat Already in Demand!

• The group loved the experience so much that they immediately requested another retreat within the next 8 months.
• Future retreats will build on what worked best—deep connection, aligned action, and plenty of space for reflection and transformation.

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at www.consciousedge.com/ep047

As business owners, we’re often focused on making money—but what happens when we don’t know how to manage it effectively? I recently had my own wake-up call with bookkeeping, and I was lucky enough to find my knight in shining armor, Jenn Baas of Peak to Peak Solutions.

Jenn has completely transformed how I view my business finances, and in this episode, we’re diving into the journey from compliance-based bookkeeping to powerful, finance-driven decision-making. We’ll talk about breaking through financial shame, using numbers to guide business strategy, and making sure your money is working for you. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by your business finances, this conversation is a must-listen.

Key Points from the Conversation:

• From Scramble to Strategy: Many businesses approach bookkeeping as a last-minute tax obligation instead of a strategic tool for growth.
• Understanding the Profit & Loss Statement: Jenn breaks down how to make financial reports useful, not just numbers on a page.
• The Power of Vision in Financial Planning: Instead of guessing at revenue goals, start with your vision and build a budget that supports it.
• Breaking Through Financial Shame: Most entrepreneurs don’t have a financial background, and that’s okay. Learning to manage money is a skill, not a personal failing.
• Paying Yourself First: Many business owners take whatever’s left, but Jenn emphasizes structuring finances so that you, the business owner, get paid intentionally.
• Scenario Planning for Revenue Growth: Instead of randomly picking revenue goals, Jenn helps business owners map out different scenarios to determine the most effective path.
• Making Strategic Business Investments: Entrepreneurs often assume low-cost offers are easier to sell, but high value offers may be a more effective way to grow.
• Shifting Mindset Around Budgeting: A budget isn’t about limitation, it’s about empowerment, flexibility, and making proactive decisions.
• Fear of Success & Financial Growth: Many business owners subconsciously resist financial growth due to fear of responsibility or failure.

Resources: 

Episode 38 - A Cautionary Tale About Bookkeeping and Finances in Business 

Episode 31 - A New Approach to Goals 

Connect with Jenn

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at https://consciousedge.com/ep046

Have you ever felt stuck or like you should be further along by now, or like you know what you should be doing, but something always gets in the way? Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the biggest hidden barriers to success, your big assumptions, and how you can start shifting them today.

Here’s what you’ll learn: 

Introduction to Big Assumptions:

• A “big assumption” is a deeply held belief about yourself or the world that unconsciously holds you back.
• These assumptions are self-protective but often work against us when we try to grow.

How Big Assumptions Show Up in Business & Life:

• Entrepreneurs often think their obstacles are external (time, money, strategy) when our biggest barriers are internal.
• The fear of failure, rejection, or being "too much" can cause hesitation, self-sabotage, or playing small.

How I Can Help You Uncover & Overcome These Blocks:

• Through workshops and coaching, I help people identify and reframe their big assumptions.
• Coaching focuses on mindset shifts that lead to faster, more aligned success.

Introducing the Journey Mapping Call:

• A new, pressure-free coaching call is designed to help entrepreneurs uncover their big assumption and create a roadmap for success.
• This call is not a sales pitch, it’s an opportunity to gain clarity and experience transformation.
• The goal is to ensure people leave the call with insights and a new sense of direction.

Why This Matters:

• When you identify and challenge your big assumptions, you take control of your journey and accelerate your progress.
• Self-awareness helps entrepreneurs move from frustration to empowerment.
• The process of growth never stops. Our big assumptions evolve as we reach new levels of success.

Our unconscious beliefs, our big assumptions, create invisible roadblocks that keep us from taking action, even when we know exactly what to do. Take advantage of my Journey Mapping Call, a free opportunity for those curious about uncovering their big assumption so you can start shifting your mindset for real progress.

Resources:

www.consciousedge.com/schedule

Episode 42: From Sleazy Sales to Aligned Advocacy: How to Sell Without Feeling Weird - https://consciousedge.com/ep042/

Episode 6: Why You Self-Sabotage - https://consciousedge.com/ep006/

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at https://consciousedge.com/ep045

If you've ever felt anxiety about stepping outside your comfort zone, in business, personal growth, or even something as routine as travel, this episode is for you. A recent personal experience revealed powerful lessons about fear, mindset, and resilience. I’m sharing how I used mindfulness, intention, and mission-driven thinking to shift from fear and stress to calm and confidence. 

Key Takeaways:

• Fear and Growth Go Hand in Hand:  Stepping outside your comfort zone can trigger stress responses, but recognizing and working through them is key to growth.
• Mindfulness as a Business Strategy: Noticing your thoughts, emotions, and physical responses allows you to shift from fear-based reactions to empowered decision-making.
• The Power of Intention: The way we frame our thoughts (e.g., “Please let us arrive safely” vs. “Please don’t crash”) has a profound impact on our experience.
• Social Media and Fear Amplification: Algorithms often feed us fear-based content that distorts reality; being intentional about what we consume can reduce anxiety.
• Mission-Driven Thinking: When you focus on your purpose and how you serve others, fear loses its grip, and confidence takes its place.
• Shifting from Probability to Possibility: Instead of making decisions based on past fears or statistics, open yourself to what could be possible.
• Managing Your Mind is Key to Avoiding Burnout: Fear-based decision-making leads to stress and exhaustion; shifting to a place of trust and empowerment keeps you aligned and energized.

Resources

What Mindfulness Is and How to Use It Daily

Atlas of the Heart 

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep044

In this episode I’m sharing the powerful story of how a 30-minute car ride in 2017 led to the birth of The Conscious Edge. It included flow, decision-making, and trusting the process when creating something meaningful. I’m sharing the exact moment I named my business, how everything effortlessly aligned, and the lessons I learned about making decisions with clarity and confidence. If you’ve ever struggled with overthinking or second-guessing, this episode is for you.

Key Points of Emphasis:

• The Difference Between Struggle & Flow – Business decisions can feel like trudging through mud or they can fall into place effortlessly. Understanding why makes all the difference.
• The Power of Setting Time Limits – "You will take as much time as you give yourself" when making decisions. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, create it.
• How The Conscious Edge Was Named – On a 30-minute car ride, I asked for guidance and decided that before I pulled into my garage, I would have a name for my business.
• Trusting the Process – When we commit to moving forward, opportunities open up in ways we can’t always explain, but we must take the next step when they do.
• Overcoming Roadblocks with Possibility Thinking – Instead of letting obstacles (like an unavailable domain name) stop you, ask, "What else is possible?"
• The Intersection of Science & Spirituality – The Conscious Edge is a place where modern science and ancient wisdom meet to create transformation.
• Taking Action on Inspired Ideas – If you don’t act on an idea, it will find someone else who will. Move forward with confidence.

Most People Quit Too Soon – Success isn’t about never facing challenges; it’s about tweaking your approach instead of starting over every time things get difficult.

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at http://www.consciousedge.com/ep043

Entrepreneurs tell me (over and over) they don’t know how to market. With a bit more digging, together we realize that’s not really the issue. They’ve built businesses, landed clients, and made money. What’s really stopping them? 

That’s today’s topic. I’m Alecia St. Germain and I’m joined by my co-host Jonathan Dubber and today we explore how marketing isn’t about chasing the latest tactic but about alignment. It’s connecting your values, your message, and your audience in a way that feels authentic. 

Key Points

• Marketing isn’t the problem. If you’ve successfully found clients, you already know how to market. The real issue is often about clarity, confidence, and consistency.
• The search for the “magic bullet” is a distraction. Entrepreneurs often chase the latest marketing trends when, in reality, timeless strategies like relationship-building and authentic messaging work best.
• Authenticity matters more than tactics. Aligning your marketing with your core values and beliefs builds trust and attracts the right audience.
• Consistency is key. Many business owners start marketing, get busy with clients, and then stop, leading to feast-or-famine cycles. Sustainable businesses keep marketing even when they’re fully booked.
• Your messaging needs to resonate. It’s not just about what you offer, it’s about how you communicate the value in a way that connects with your audience’s emotions and needs.
• Implement heart-aligned branding and marketing. Purpose drive intentions and your big picture why are the foundation of your messaging and everything expands from there. 
• Mindful marketing is the way forward. Rather than judging yourself when strategies don’t work instantly, take a curious, data-driven approach and refine over time.
• What is your big assumption? What’s stopping you from marketing is likely on the other side of your big assumption. 
• When you come to your work with a true desire to help organic marketing happens. People will share their results with others and market for you! 
• People feel supported. Heart-based marketing lets people know they are welcome and working with you is safe because you provide an encouraging and supportive space.
• Start with empathy and compassion. You can’t market what you don’t understand. Starting with your customers’ needs and concerns first, will make all of your marketing efforts more effective.

Busyness can keep you from being effective. Are you busy doing things that aren’t sales producing? Are activities keeping you from making true connections that will lead to sales?

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at  www.consciousedge.com/ep042

Sales. That word alone can bring discomfort, fear, even resistance. If you’ve ever felt uneasy about selling, worried about following up with potential clients, or struggled with the idea of sales feeling "pushy" or "sleazy," this episode is for you. I sat down with Jonathan Dugger to break down the biggest myths around selling and reframe it as aligned advocacy, a way to offer your services with integrity and confidence.

We explore: 

• Why traditional sales tactics feel “icky” and how to shift your mindset
• The difference between buying which we like to do, and being sold which is usually uncomfortable
• How to sell in a way that feels aligned with your values and serves your clients
• The power of language and how small shifts can make selling easier and more natural
• The concept of advocacy related to sales and selling
• How to examine your big assumption about selling 
• Ways to eliminate the discomfort about sharing your offer hint: it’s not about you
• The best way to end frustration in your sales process 
• How to attract the right customers instead of chasing leads that don’t align
• The worthiness doubts about delivering what you sell and how it shows up when you are making an offer
• How to empower someone to make a good decision (for them) as part of your sales process

Looking for additional support? 

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

 Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

📝Get full show notes at https://consciousedge.com/ep041

As entrepreneurs and small business owners, we often start out doing all the things. Partly out of necessity, and then because we’re not sure how to go about hiring someone to help us or how to set up a new team-member to be successful. 

I’m your host Alecia St. Germain and Jonathan Dugger is back with me to break down how to look past the resumé and the best way to find someone that truly aligns with what you need. Understanding how to trust your instincts about potential hires as well and recognizing where you need to grow as a leader can bring huge growth personally and financially. 

Seven ways to improve your hiring success: 

• A great resume doesn’t guarantee a great hire. Skills and experience matter, but alignment with company culture and values is more important.
• Trust your instincts. Ignoring gut feelings about a candidate, good or bad, can lead to costly mistakes.
• Referrals aren’t foolproof. Just because someone comes highly recommended doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for your business.
• Coachable and aligned people thrive. Hiring for attitude and willingness to learn often leads to more success than hiring for credentials alone.
• Hiring mistakes are part of the process. You might have to go through a few missteps before finding the right person.
• People-first businesses succeed. When you focus on the right people and meaningful work, the money follows.
• Look up and look around. Being intentional about human connection in your daily interactions creates a more compassionate and thriving business. 

Looking for additional support?

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Disclaimer

📝Get full show notes at https://consciousedge.com/ep040

Resources: 

Connect with Sarah – Website 

Instagram

Many people share their dreams with me and then immediately list the reasons why they can’t make them happen. Sarah Guilliot is proof that when you step into your true calling, everything aligns. Like many entrepreneurs, Sarah felt trapped and longed for freedom. 

A wake-up call came when her husband suffered a stroke, pushing her to take the leap into entrepreneurship. Through multiple ventures including an Etsy shop, partnerships, and a design agency, she kept iterating until she landed on what truly lit her up: copywriting. 

Just a year ago, she was preparing to go back to a corporate job if her business didn’t take off. Instead, she made a decision, went all in, and within months, everything changed. Her story is a powerful reminder that success follows clarity, commitment, and the courage to bet on yourself.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding changes everything: The moment Sarah fully committed to copywriting, opportunities flowed effortlessly.
• Iterate and pivot: She tried multiple business models before landing on what truly worked for her.
• Sales is a service: Selling is offering your unique gift to the world in a way that feels aligned.
• Incremental upgrades matter: This is often overlooked, but small changes in your daily environment help you make huge mindset shifts. 
• AI can’t replace human connection: Tools like ChatGPT can help, but authentic brand voice and emotional nuance require a human touch.
• Surround yourself with support: A strong network helped Sarah stay confident even when she faced challenges.
• Momentum builds fast when you commit: Fear fades when you take action and success often follows sooner than expected.

Looking for additional support? 

✈️Going away soon! Learn more about the Redefining Success Retreat February 2025: This is a 3 day/4 night experience in Phoenix to help you get clarity, explore money blocks, and create a plan to bring the spark back into your business and make 2025 your best year yet.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Disclaimer

📝Get full show notes at https://consciousedge.com/ep039

Resources: 

Connect with Shannon

Money and Mindset, or maybe I should say the mindset of money?

That’s what we cover in today’s conversation with my friend Shannon Mattern. 

Together we discuss how financial tracking can uncover limiting beliefs, guide strategic decisions, and ultimately foster business success. 

Buckle up, because there’s a ton of great info here that may challenge your own money beliefs and give you some new strategies to really understand how your financial well-being is about much more than your bank account.

Listen for insight into your own money story as we discuss these topics: 

• The Importance of Monthly Financial Tracking
• Lessons from Income Reports
• The Shift from Tracking to Overspending
• Mindset and Money Habits
• How External Accountability Helps
• Shifting Perspectives on Expenses
• Rebuilding with Reflection

Looking for additional support? Here’s a few opportunities:

✈️Going away soon! Learn more about the Redefining Success Retreat February 2025: This is a 3 day/4 night experience in Phoenix to help you get clarity, explore money blocks, and create a plan to bring the spark back into your business and make 2025 your best year yet.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Disclaimer

Resources: 

Increase Your Financial Sense to Create Clarity and Reduce Stress with Nicola “Nikki” Fraser 

Letting Go of Relationships that Aren’t Working 

When you think about things like bookkeeping and taxes as part of your business how do you feel? Panicked or empowered? I used to ignore this part of my business until I couldn’t put it off any longer. Then I’d rush around trying to put things together, cross my fingers and hope for the best. 

This year I finally decided to pay attention to this part of my business and that meant asking for help, educating myself and finding resources that fit how I wanted to be, do and feel around my business finances. 

Hear how things went from chaos (I almost lost all the financial records for 2024!) to feeling clear about what to do moving forward. 

🌟Grab Alecia’s Reclaiming You Training for women business owners and real estate investors who want to build a sustainable business that prioritizes your well-being and the people you love. 

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Looking for additional support? Here’s a few opportunities:

✈️Going away soon! Learn more about the Redefining Success Retreat February 2025: This is a 3 day/4 night experience in Phoenix to help you get clarity, explore money blocks, and create a plan to bring the spark back into your business and make 2025 your best year yet.

📝Get full show notes at https://consciousedge.com/ep037

Have you ever found yourself in a heated debate, only to pause later and think, “Why was that so important to me?” Jonathan and I tackled this very question in this episode. We explore how the need to be right fuels many arguments and perpetuates the polarization we see today, and we talk about how we can shift from the need to be right to choosing peace instead. 

We cover: 

• How we’ve become so polarized and why language is a part of the problem.
• Where the need to be right can come from and how to recognize what’s really going on. 
• How to truth-test your beliefs and determine if they are aligned. 
• How to use mindfulness to choose peace instead of conflict.
• The best way to opt for “power under control” when faced with polarizing comments or when you’re feeling defensive.
• The best methods for active listening and using curiosity instead of arguing or pushing your agenda.

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Looking for additional support? Here’s a few opportunities:

✈️Going away soon! Learn more about the Redefining Success Retreat February 2025: This is a 3 day/4 night experience in Phoenix to help you get clarity, explore money blocks, and create a plan to bring the spark back into your business and make 2025 your best year yet.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

📝Get full show notes at http://www.consciousedge.com/ep036

If you’ve experienced loss or want to better understand how to support others, this episode offers raw vulnerability, mindful strategies, and insights into transforming grief into meaningful action.

We cover: 

• Nine common ways grief may show up. 
• What is mindful grieving and how it can help.
• Seven ways to process grief mindfully. 
• How to acknowledge and accept feelings of grief. 
• Nine ways to express your grief as part of processing your emotions. 
• Suggestions to help communicate what you need with friends and family. 

It’s important to note that there’s no one right way to grieve, nor is there a finish line. Though the experience of grief is universal, the way it impacts each of us is personal. 

Disclaimer

Connect with Us:

• Send questions and feedback to hello@consciousedge.com or DM @aleciastg on Instagram.

Looking for additional support? Here’s a few opportunities:

✈️Going away soon! Learn more about the Redefining Success Retreat February 2025: This is a 3 day/4 night experience in Phoenix to help you get clarity, explore money blocks, and create a plan to bring the spark back into your business and make 2025 your best year yet.

Learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: This is a year-long coaching program for women business owners and real estate investors who don’t need more strategy and suspect they themselves are the biggest obstacle in the way.  

Here’s to a mindful, intentional, and purpose-driven new year. Happy 2025!

Resources: 

Episode 6 - Why You Self-Sabotage

Redefining Success Retreat 2025 (a couple of spots are still available!) 

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Jonathan reminds us that giving and receiving isn’t just related to gifts. We often relate the same types of responses when people offer help or even compliments. Receiving help or gifts can trigger unexpected discomfort. 

We explore how societal conditioning often ties receiving to vulnerability or even weakness. Research reveals that being open to receiving can actually produce more joy than giving. It’s about practicing receptiveness as a skill and reshaping how we perceive acts of generosity. It may seem awkward to work on your receiving muscles, but according to the research, the results are worth the effort. 

Happy Holidays!

Resources: 

Episode 8: How to Know if You’re Operating from Scarcity or Abundance 

Episode 9: How Gratitude and Gratefulness Create Peacefulness 

Join Us on the Retreat (a few spots left)

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

One of the most powerful shifts we can make is being intentional about how we label our experiences. As Jonathan points out, we often misuse words like “overwhelmed” when what we’re really feeling is stressed, inconvenienced, or even just busy. Recognizing this difference can help us stay grounded and avoid spiraling into emotional overload. We can set ourselves up to exaggerate our circumstances when we use charged language.

The holidays can trigger a range of complex emotions. It can bring joy, nostalgia, grief, and even guilt. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings without judgment. For many of us, it brings feelings of dissonance or disconnection from how we think we should feel. 

We can set ourselves up for failure if we don’t own how we’re feeling in a positive way. Jonathan shares how losing his dad changed his family’s holiday traditions and how embracing new ways of celebrating has helped ease that sense of loss.

Sometimes, holiday traditions can feel more like obligations than sources of joy. There’s often over-compensation to buy gifts, host parties, send out cards and more to make up for lost time or a lack of connection throughout the year. 

Jonathan and I discussed how reevaluating and simplifying holiday customs can make space for genuine connection. My family decided to spread celebrations over several weekends, giving us time to relax and truly enjoy each gathering. It’s okay to focus on what really matters today. What is an important part of your tradition that you can do in a new way?

The ability to slow down and find what works for you and your family. Your holidays don’t have to conform to someone else’s idea or to an outdated tradition that isn’t attainable anymore. 

Jonathan shared a story about a friend who found comfort simply by visiting an ice-skating rink, soaking up the joy of strangers. Sometimes, when joy feels distant, borrowing it from the world around us can be a beautiful act of self-care.

The holidays don’t have to be picture-perfect. They can be imperfectly beautiful, filled with intentional moments of connection, gratitude, and even quiet reflection. Let’s rewrite the narrative this season—letting go of outdated expectations and embracing what truly matters.

We’d love to hear what resonated with you. Connect with me on Instagram and share your takeaways. We’re sending you love and light this holiday season. 

Resources: 

Episode 3 - What to do When You're Feeling Overwhelmed 

Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

If you’ve been experiencing burnout from chasing rigid goals or disconnected from your purpose, this episode is for you. Together, Jonathan and I unpacked the benefits of setting intentions and actionable tips to help you harness this powerful practice.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Hey love, Jonathan is back with me today and as we were getting ready to record, I couldn’t help but reflect on how often goals—those shiny, specific, time-bound targets we’re told to set—end up feeling like something that’s holding us back instead of moving us forward. 

Goals have value, but if you put so much weight on them that you judge yourself by their completion, they can be demotivating. 

Jonathan shares that we’ve been told if it’s not specific, measurable, and time-bound, it’s useless. But that’s not true. We also overlook our changing desires and focus as it relates to our goals. He shared that dreaming big has become outdated or is sometimes treated as a joke. Dreams and intentions are what drive us forward. 

This struck a chord with me. How often do we box ourselves in, believing success means rigidly hitting targets, even when they don’t feel aligned with who we are or what we want?

We used the wellness wheel to talk about examples of a goal-setting process. 

Jonathan shared a personal story about his journey with meditation, a perfect metaphor for how we can reframe our goals. During a graduate school workshop, he studied with Buddhist monks who taught traditional stillness meditation. It didn’t take long for him to realize he was in big trouble. 

Jonathan tried hard to clear his mind, sit perfectly still, and follow the rules. By the final exam—a 45-minute stillness practice—he thought he had finally succeeded. But when the monk tapped him on the forehead, signaling the end of the session, he grinned and said, “You were still, but not in here,” pointing to his mind.

The lesson? Meditation doesn’t have to look one way. For Jonathan, it’s a walk among trees, the wind through an open car window, or savoring a good meal.

“You have to find what works for you,” he said. That freedom, that permission to adapt, was life changing. It’s a lesson we can all take into how we approach goals.

Sending you so much love. Be well.

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

At the retreat, I witnessed a transformative breakthrough. A participant identified her “one thing” — the singular focus that could make all her other goals easier to achieve. The clarity she gained led her to take immediate action, and in no time, a huge opportunity landed in her lap. But here’s the catch: big opportunities often come with a wave of imposter syndrome.  

As I told her, “Opportunity doesn’t come when you’re ready. It calls you to get ready when it shows up”. This truth has been a constant in my life, and learning to embrace it has allowed me to grow in ways I never imagined.  

Imposter syndrome can sneak in, especially when opportunities feel “too big” for us. But instead of succumbing to self-doubt, we can lean into preparation and trust in our character. For me, preparation isn’t just about researching or practicing; it’s about showing up as the person I need to be for the opportunity.  

One of the most liberating lessons I’ve learned is to stop waiting for perfection before moving forward. The key is to say yes and trust yourself to prepare as you go. This mindset has unlocked my ability to create, innovate, and serve at a higher level.  

As Jonathan and I prepare for our February retreat, we’re embracing this approach fully. Instead of over-planning every detail, we’re allowing flexibility to tailor the experience to the needs of our attendees.  

Ultimately, every step of the journey shapes who we become. Whether it’s identifying your next focus, overcoming self-doubt, or aligning with your deeper purpose, each moment prepares you for the opportunities ahead.  

As you consider what’s next for you, ask yourself:  

• What’s the one thing that could accelerate your goals?  
• Who do you need to be to embrace your next opportunity?  
• How can you prepare while staying true to your purpose?  

The answers may surprise you, but they’ll undoubtedly lead to growth. If this resonates with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’re curious about the retreat we’re hosting in February, you can get more info here. 

Resources: 

Retreat Waitlist

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

In our chat, we uncovered some crucial ideas on how to avoid burnout by grounding our goals in what truly matters, not just to society or corporate checklists but to us as individuals. So many people delay their happiness, thinking, "I'll be happy once I hit X goal," but as Jonathan said, this mindset can lead to years of dissatisfaction. Instead, we believe that the journey should be fulfilling now, not just at some distant finish line.

If you’re looking for support defining your goals, or creating new goals that are more aligned, you can start here.

Resources: 

Episode 5: 4 Unhealthy Goal Habits and What to Do Differently

Join waitlist for more information on our upcoming retreat in Phoenix, AZ, February 2025

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

We’re talking about his travels after six weeks abroad. You’re going to love his insights about building a life and a business that allows for extended time away without missing a beat. Our conversation was filled with practical tips, heartfelt moments, and a few laughs about the roadblocks he faced (like a troublesome loan document!).

Creating Time Freedom: Turning a Dream into Reality

Jonathan and I dove into what it takes to build a business where you can take extended time off without everything falling apart. As he put it, “For a very long time, I’ve had this goal of trading time for money… One of my core definitions of success is time freedom.” Jonathan shared how he laid the groundwork for this by creating systems, automating processes, and setting up redundancies so his business could continue operating smoothly while he explored Europe.

Planning for Flexibility and Embracing the Unexpected

Planning is key, but so is flexibility! Jonathan told us about his experience handling a surprise loan issue remotely. That challenge required some extra problem-solving and adaptability. From managing finances to setting up reliable ways to stay in contact with clients and loved ones, he prepared well but remained open to handling unexpected situations. Jonathan’s advice? Expect the unexpected and have a backup plan, but also recognize that some things can wait.

Hear how Jonathan identified the things he could do remotely and how he got clear on what could wait until he returned home. He also shares his stop-catastrophizing strategy as well. That’s something anyone can use at any time, not just when traveling.

Experience Life’s Moments Fully

While work was part of the journey, Jonathan also practiced mindfulness and gratitude in beautiful Italian landscapes. He shared powerful reflections on appreciating every moment and capturing experiences through photography, not just for memories but to fully immerse himself. His mindfulness practice reminded me of how important it is to stay present, appreciate where we are, and remember why we’re working so hard to create this freedom.

Jonathan’s travel tales, insights into mindful business building, and plans for the future left me even more inspired. I hope his experiences spark ideas for those of you dreaming of working remotely or taking an extended time away while your business thrives. Listen in on our full episode for all the tips, laughs, and maybe some inspiration to book your own “work-cation” abroad! 

Much love and be well everybody! 

Retreat Info 

Digital Nomad Visa Information

Jonathan’s Instagram

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

As much as we embrace joy, we all have times when things aren’t clicking. Instead, we hit a point where our progress halts, often due to life’s unpredictable circumstances. Today, I’ll share a powerful process to overcome those mental roadblocks and get back to moving forward with your goals, even when things feel out of your control.

When we talk about creating wealth and building a fulfilling life, it’s not just about hitting financial targets. It’s about balancing growth with joy, where you’re thriving and enjoying the journey, not just grinding it out for a future payoff. But what happens when you hit that wall of doubt, where it feels like something is “off” and you’re unsure if your path is right?

Know the Difference Between Real Intuition and Mental Blocks

One of the first steps is identifying whether you’re genuinely picking up on something that needs a change or if it’s just a block caused by an unconscious belief. I had the privilege of discussing this with a wonderful client recently. She’s a highly successful entrepreneur working on a new revenue stream, but personal challenges kept arising, pulling her focus. It left her feeling uncertain, questioning if this new project was truly right for her.

Together, we used a method called Immunity to Change, a process that digs deep into hidden assumptions holding us back. This process helped her realize that her fear of letting others down was triggering that stuck feeling—not an actual problem with her project. You can answer these same questions for yourself if you are feeling stuck or unsure about next steps.

Getting Unstuck with Immunity to Change

Here’s how you can start overcoming your blocks:

• Visualize Moving Forward: Close your eyes and imagine yourself actively working on the project. Notice any feelings of resistance or where your mind goes blank. These are clues.  
• Ask: What Am I Worried About?: When those blocks appear, ask yourself directly, “What am I worried about if I move forward?” Digging into these feelings often reveals unconscious beliefs, like fears of failure or letting others down.
• Challenge the Belief: Once you identify a belief (e.g., “If I don’t succeed perfectly, I’m a flake”), ask yourself if the evidence supports it. For my client, her track record of reliability showed she was far from a flake. Recognizing this let her confidently plan her next steps, free from doubt.

Breaking through these mental barriers is a lifelong skill. Each time you confront a block and move forward, you not only grow but also become more attuned to your intuition. Building this awareness and strength allows us to keep moving toward our visions with peace and resilience.

If this resonated with you, then check out the free training at consciousedge.com/training to learn a bit more about what this work looks like and better understand how it can help you. 

Resources: 

 EP 6 Why You Self Sabotage 

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

We all want to build businesses that give us freedom, flexibility, and security, but so many of us find ourselves in a grind that drains us.

In this episode, I’m tackling the very common struggle of feeling like there isn’t enough time or space to do the personal development work necessary to grow. I know firsthand how easy it is to fall into that trap of waiting for the “right time” to focus on your leadership, personal growth, or even that next level for your business. But here’s the truth: You don't need to create the capacity first, you need to do the work to grow the capacity. 

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

- Hear how working with an Instagram coach taught me to revisit foundational marketing strategies.

- Learn how personal development and mindset work creates value and makes the journey much more enjoyable. I compare it to upgrading from driving to flying private, making the journey more fulfilling.

- Achieving financial freedom and business success requires not just strategy, but also a healthy mindset and personal growth.

I want to help you prioritize both the destination and the experience of getting there, with a focus on mindfulness, leadership and personal growth. Doing this work means you’re much more likely to make it despite set-backs or challenges. 

If you want to get to your destination faster, with less burnout, and if you’re ready to bet on yourself, let’s make this joyful, easy, fun, and rewarding. To explore what it looks like to do this work, check out my free training to find out how I can help you get to your destination and have fun along the way. 

Fast Track Your Financial Freedom Free Training  

Let’s connect on Instagram.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

The conversation builds off last week's exploration of relationships and delves into how our calendars reflect what we truly value. When I figured out how to restructure my time, and overcome the limiting beliefs around what is possible, everything changed. Instead of feeling over-booked, I feel expansiveness on days when I’ve allowed for time to be with my kids or go to an event. 

That’s what I want for you too. Time for the life you really want to live! 

I’m breaking down: 

• The emotional component to managing a calendar that serves you. 
• How to put the joyful, important and meaningful things on your calendar first. 
• The clarity that comes from doing the necessary in the time that is left. 
• Why time limits and deadlines create resourcefulness and make us more efficient.  
• How giving myself space to work ahead saves me time and makes me more effective. 

When you get clear about what’s on your calendar, it will uncover what’s not working and will show you where things are out of alignment. Adjusting that opens the door to a joyful life that’s also successful and financially rewarding. 

I also highlight the importance of being present, and how through mindfulness, even simple tasks can bring clarity and insight. From planning business activities around important life events, to putting hard boundaries on work hours, it’s important to create a rhythm in your calendar that enhances both your personal and professional life. 

What would it be like if you already had your vacation time blocked off, and the end-of-school event week(s) scheduled? How freeing would it be to know that you’ve created the space for your favorite holiday experiences? 

That’s the power of being intentional about what you want your life to look like including the joyful, fun and work-related parts of your life. 

This episode is packed with insights into creating balance, redefining success, and ensuring that your time reflects what truly matters to you. As we gear up for open enrollment in the Exponential Entrepreneur, I invite you to take this journey of realigning your time and life with what matters most.

Resources: 

www.consciousedge.com/apply

Episode 23: Fostering Deep Meaningful Relationship - https://consciousedge.com/ep023/

Episode 22: The Real Reason You Don't Have Time - https://consciousedge.com/ep022/

Episode 21: Our Journey to Creating a New Product with Ease - https://consciousedge.com/ep021/

Episode 19: What Actually Is and How to Use It Daily - https://consciousedge.com/ep019/

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

In this episode you’ll find:

• My moment of realization that the way I had built my life was no longer working and the steps I took to overhaul things so that I felt in control of my time. 
• How to evaluate your personal and professional relationship to ensure you’re giving your time to the people that matter most to you.
• Handling limiting beliefs that cause you to participate in people pleasing and making choices from fear.
• The key to ensuring you have a good reputation in life and business.  
• How perspectives, experiences, and beliefs can cause misunderstandings in nonverbal communication.
• The counterintuitive structure that creates clarity, focus, creativity, peace, and joy leading to more income.

So much of this misalignment has to do with your beliefs. It is a well-known societal norm that the harder and longer you work, the more money you make.  The more money you have, the more freedom, but that’s not always true.  People are shocked when they put in all the effort and feel more trapped than ever.

Take this time today to reevaluate your relationships and start connecting in a meaningful way. 

Sending you love and be well.

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

If you're like many of the women I work with in real estate investing or the real estate industry, you might feel like you’re doing everything, wearing all the hats, and yet, not getting the results you want. You’re smart, capable, and hardworking, so what’s holding you back?

I used to say, "I don’t have time," all the time, and I did feel that way, but I’ve since learned that it wasn’t actually about the time itself. Once I realized this, everything shifted. Today, you’ll find out why time (likely) isn’t the real issue for you either, and how to uncover what is really behind the beliefs, behaviors and actions that keep you overwhelmed. 

I go into detail about how I help clients create transformational results, leaving them with time to do the things in life that bring them joy! 

Here’s what I cover in detail:

• How to identify the root problem that often stems from having too much on your plate and self-sabotaging behaviors driven by unconscious beliefs.
• 
  
• My approach for gaining clarity on your true purpose, talents, and vision, then identifying a singular focus—a goal that would make other goals easier to achieve.
• 
  
• How to use tools like the Immunity to Change map, common limiting beliefs (e.g., fear of being seen as selfish or making mistakes) are uncovered and challenged.
• 
  
• The method to identify these deeply rooted beliefs, your big assumption, that drive behaviors that keep you stuck in overwhelm and prevent progress.
• 
  
• How to tackle your big assumption. Once identified, intentional behavior changes are planned to help rewire the brain, leading to more effective time use and personal growth.

• Real transformation comes from understanding that time isn’t the problem—rather, it’s how people think about and use their time, driven by these big assumptions.
• 
  
• Planned behavior change is the process I teach that involves small, intentional shifts in behavior that focus on the experience rather than immediate results, gradually creating new habits and pathways.

If today’s episode has sparked something in you, and you’re curious about what it might be like to identify your big assumption, I encourage you to visit consciousedge.com/apply. 

I’ll take you through a personalized journey, just like we did today, and help you see what’s possible for you.

Until next time, I’m sending you so much love, and remember, you have more time than you think! Jonathan will be back soon, and he’d want me to tell you to be well. 

On Demand Mapping Workshop 

Apply Here for Immunity to Change Coaching Info 

Why You Self-Sabotage (Episode 6)

What Mindfulness Is and How to Use it Daily (Episode 19)

We have an exciting announcement; we’re hosting a retreat! This has been a long-time dream, born from our desire to help people discover their purpose, align it with their passions, and explore prosperity in a whole new way.

Listen in as we talk about how we’ve made the planning process simple and are   intentionally crafting an experience that will be transformative, practical, and fun.

Here’s what we covered:

-Keep the launch process simple. It’s about connecting with an audience, collecting feedback, being open, sharing the opportunity, and trusting yourself to deliver.

-Be the first to find out about our retreat conceived to help participants align passion, purpose, and prosperity for true fulfillment.

- Hear how we’ll focus on redefining success, helping people move beyond a results-driven mindset to embrace purpose-driven living.

- Let’s deal with our money challenges. We explore money as a tool and amplifier, not the sole measure of success, with a focus on reshaping the relationship with wealth.

- You know mindfulness will play a key role in the retreat, guiding participants to develop greater self-awareness and breakthroughs in real-time.

- Our focus: delivering practical takeaways ensuring attendees leave with actionable tools for personal and professional growth.

- The retreat is planned for Q1 2025, with possible locations in Scottsdale, Palm Springs, or San Diego, and aims to host 10-15 participants.

- The retreat is designed to be intimate, tailored, and impactful,combining personal transformation with practical strategies.

We'd like to invite you to sign up for the waitlist at consciousedge.com/retreat. You’ll receive updates and be part of the creation process. Of course, we’ll also be talking about plans on future episodes as well.

We’re not just creating a retreat—we’re building a community of like-minded individuals ready to take the next step in their personal and professional lives. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes us, and we hope you’ll be part of it.

We look forward to creating this transformational experience together. Sending you so much love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

We know success is often measured by financial or professional achievements and we’re also clear that true wellness comes from balancing multiple dimensions of life. 

In this episode we’re talking about the components of wellness, how to assess imbalance, and practical ways to restore harmony.

Here’s a great summary of our conversation:  

Wellness is multi-dimensional. True wellness involves balancing physical, emotional, spiritual, social, intellectual, occupational, and financial aspects of life.

Success is tied to wellness. Jonathan emphasized, "When you're truly well, you're successful" highlighting that true success comes from overall well-being.

Balance doesn’t require equal time. It’s not about spending equal time on each area, but rather about doing efficient things that fill your “cups” in less time.

Life is an experiment. Treat life as a laboratory to experiment with habits and behaviors, noticing what works and making adjustments when you don’t like the way things are going.

Intentional rest is key. Scheduling intentional downtime is crucial for maintaining balance and boosting productivity. 

Focus on one thing at a time. Avoid trying to overhaul every area of life at once. Instead, take baby steps and make gradual improvements.

Mindfulness aids in balance. Being mindful helps identify areas of imbalance and allows for intentional changes without judgment.

Life is an ongoing journey, and our hope is that through this podcast and future retreats, we can help you find success, balance, and fulfillment. Stay tuned for more on how you can be part of that. 

Remember, success is about more than money—it’s about being well in every aspect of your life. Until next time, sending you so much love and balance!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Mindfulness Explained: Mindfulness is an ancient practice that helps improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being by being fully present in the moment.

Mindfulness vs. Hustle Culture: Find out why multitasking doesn’t work. Mindfulness encourages focusing on one task at a time for better productivity and less stress.

Scientific Benefits: Hear about the research that shows how mindfulness physically alters the brain, reducing stress responses and increasing creativity, memory, and language abilities.

Practical Exercises: Simple mindfulness practices that anyone can do in just a few minutes, such as paying attention to your senses during daily tasks, can help build awareness and presence in everyday life.

Mindfulness in Business: Incorporate mindfulness into your routine to improve focus, reduce overwhelm, and better decision-making in both personal and professional contexts.

Ongoing Practice: Mindfulness is a skill that requires practice, but the benefits are significant and can positively impact various aspects of life.

Mindfulness is a valuable tool for achieving balance and effectiveness in a busy world, especially for business owners and high achievers.

Episode 3 What to Do When You Feel Overwhelmed 

Episode 7 Choosing Self-Compassion over Self-Criticism

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Here are the key takeaways from this episode: 

Understanding Support Roles: Find out the difference between consultants, coaches, and mentors, highlighting their unique contributions to business growth.  

Consultants & Strategists: The best option if you need a roadmap and advice for specific business goals but require you to implement their plans. Think strategies and tactics.   

Coaches: A good coach will help you focus on unlocking your potential and help you overcome mindset challenges, regardless of your industry.  

Mentors: Have walked your path and offer insights based on their experiences, but it’s crucial to choose a mentor whose values align with yours.

When to Seek a Coach: If you’re struggling with procrastination, perfectionism, or self-doubt despite having strategies in place, it might be time to find a coach specializing in mindset work.

Empowerment in Decision Making: Encourages taking responsibility for your journey and selecting the right kind of support for your unique needs.

If today’s discussion resonated with you, I’d love to connect. Visit consciousedge.com/apply to fill out an application. Let’s figure out together what kind of support will help you reach your goals, whether it’s a coach like me, a different kind of expert, or maybe even just the right new hire.

Resource: 

Why You Self-Sabotage (Episode 6)

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Key segments include: 

• Embracing imperfections. 
• Shame vs. guilt and how to tell the difference.
• Why radical self-acceptance will help.
• How to identify and address shame when it shows up.

Shame is an emotion that can creep into our lives in the most unexpected ways. It’s important to understand how to recognize and address it head on. Be mindful of your emotions and seek help if shame is making you angry or causing you to isolate. 

Remember, it’s not about being perfect, it’s about embracing the journey and caring for ourselves when we’re our most vulnerable.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

I help clients overcome blocks that keep them from moving forward in their business and life. Together we create a test to help take a specific action in a way that feels safe. The results of the action don’t matter as much as the feeling and insight that comes from the experience. 

Hear how real-time support during a co-working session helped my client send out important emails, which resulted in a positive response. 

This success story leads to a broader discussion with my friend and co-host Jonathan Dugger about finding joy in the little things and the importance of spontaneity, humor, and wonderment in our daily lives. Joy can be found in simple everyday moments if we allow ourselves to be present and open to them.

Joy is all around us—we just need to take the time to notice it.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Here’s what we breakdown in our conversation: 

• The cost of delayed decisions. 
• Excuses verses reality.
• The role of fear and assumptions. 
• Strategies for making tough decisions.
• Knowing your numbers. 
• Clearing your calendar.
• Reality testing to challenge your assumptions.
• Empowering yourself as a decision-maker.

I hope this episode inspires you to take action, make necessary changes, and move towards your next level of growth. 

Resources: 

Next Key Services – Know Your Numbers

Episode 3 – What to do When You are Feeling Overwhelmed

Episode 6 – Why You Self-Sabotage 

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Break the Cycle of Financial Avoidance

Nikki explained that one of the tendencies of business owners is to avoid dealing with their finances until it’s too late. Nikki emphasized the importance of understanding your numbers not just as a compliance exercise but as a strategic tool.

The Power of Financial Clarity

Nikki shared that having financial clarity brings energy and confidence to business owners. When you know your numbers, you can handle unexpected challenges, make informed decisions, and seize opportunities. 

Budgeting as a Tool for Growth

We also discussed the misconception that budgets are restrictive. Instead, Nikki views budgeting as a privilege and a tool to allocate resources effectively. 

Preparing for Opportunities

A significant takeaway from our conversation was the importance of being prepared for opportunities before they arise. Nikki advised having your financials in order and understanding your numbers to move quickly when opportunities present themselves. 

Upcoming Workshop and Program

Nikki and Dan are hosting a free "Level Up" workshop this summer, where they will teach their process for determining when it’s time to make the next hire and how to manage your finances strategically. You can register here.

If you’ve been putting off dealing with your finances, now is the time to take action. Embrace the clarity, energy, and confidence that come with understanding your numbers, and watch your business thrive.

Connect with Nikki

NextKey Services 

Register for the Level Up Workshop: Invest and Thrive

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Today, I want to delve into a topic that resonates with many of us: handling triggers and practicing self-compassion.

During a discussion, my client expressed frustration over feeling stuck at a particular point in her progress. She asked, “How am I supposed to remember to ask myself all these questions because I get triggered A LOT every single day?” This is a common concern, and it leads us to the heart of today's topic.

Let me set the stage with a personal story. One Saturday, my daughter and I were heading to our local farmer’s market. It was busier than usual, and we were struggling to find a parking spot. I spotted someone leaving and positioned myself to take their spot, but another car, just entering the lot, also claimed it. Normally, I would have let it go, but this time, I lost my cool. I opened my window and yelled, “You are what's wrong with humanity!” My daughter’s comment, “I think you were both kinda rude,” made me reflect deeply on my actions. 

Here’s what my reflection helped me understand: 

Limited Resources Amplify Triggers When basic needs (like food, shelter, money, and yes, even, parking spots) are scarce, it often brings out the worst in us. The same applies to internal resources like energy and patience.

The Need to Be Right My reaction stemmed from a strong sense of justice and the need to be right. This is a common trigger that can lead to overreactions.

Teaching Moments Despite the embarrassing situation, I turned it into a teaching moment for my kids about courtesy, self-reflection, and the importance of moving on gracefully.

Jonathan and I highlight a few ways to understand what’s happening and what you can do if you’ve gotten angry or upset. 

• Recognize and Understand Triggers It's crucial to identify who or what your triggers remind you of.

• The Power of Self-Compassion Practicing self-compassion involves recognizing your triggers, understanding your responses, and forgiving yourself when you react strongly.

• Repairing Relationships and Moving Forward When you lose your cool, it’s vital to unpack the situation and find the lessons within it.

Losing our cool occasionally is part of being human. What's important is how we handle these situations afterward. By reflecting on our triggers, practicing self-compassion, and taking steps to repair any harm caused, we can grow stronger and more resilient. Remember, the goal is not to be perfect but to handle our imperfections with grace and kindness.

Thank you for joining me today. Until next time, keep practicing self-compassion and stay curious about your behaviors. Let's navigate our triggers together and continue striving for personal growth and understanding.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Resources:

Episode 6: Why You Self-Sabotage

The Weight of Perceived Judgments

We've all been there, right? You walk into a room, and suddenly you're hit with this overwhelming feeling that everyone is judging you. But here's the thing: often, what we think others are thinking about us is just a reflection of our own insecurities.

I shared a story from my early coaching days when I attended a conference and helped a

friend at her booth. A mindset coach on stage snapped at a woman, saying, "You mindset people. Nobody wants mindset." It was like a dagger to my heart. I thought, "If she thinks that, how can I ever be successful?"

The Power of Words

Jonathan highlighted an important point: the impact of words from those in leadership

positions. "If you're in a leadership position, be very careful about what you say without knowing who's in the room and what they're listening to," he said. It's a reminder that our words can significantly influence others, sometimes in ways we don't intend.

Self-Compassion and Overcoming Self-Criticism

How do we combat these negative thoughts and judgments? One key aspect is developing

self-compassion. Often, our harshest critic is ourselves. We need to learn to treat ourselves with the same kindness and understanding we offer others.

Here are a few signs that may indicate we might be putting too much value on the opinions of others:

•  Do you change yourself in response to feedback or the opinions of others, regardless

of who it comes from?

• You allow others to make decisions for you or decide to do what someone else suggested is right for you without considering how you truly feel.
• You don’t set or maintain boundaries with others.
• You’re a perfectionist for other people in an attempt to control what they think about you.
• You don’t share your opinions unless or until you know it’s in alignment with the opinion of others in the room.
• Your peace of mind requires approval from others.
• Apologizing for all manner of things as a way to ingratiate yourself with others.

When we recognize one or more of these patterns, we can start to shift our mindset and build a healthier, more self-compassionate approach. Jonathan shared a few ways to get

started:  

• Expect and accept that everyone has an opinion. That doesn’t mean all opinions are for

you or need to be considered.

• Practice compassion for others who may err in their judgements. We all get it wrong sometimes, and if you can recognize that in the moment, it makes it easier to evaluate.
• Be aware and work on how you judge others. It can bring a new awareness about how you judge yourself.
• If you are a leader, be cognizant of the words you use and how you express your opinions.
• 
  

Thank you for joining us in this heartfelt conversation. Remember, you're not alone in

feeling this way, and by embracing self-compassion and authenticity, we can all move forward with greater confidence and clarity. Let's journey together on the path of compassionate leadership and authentic living. If this resonated with you, please share it with someone you love.

 Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer 

Real Talk About Conferences

I've attended countless conferences over the years, especially in the real estate sector. Initially, I viewed them as pitch fests—sleazy, sales-driven events that left me feeling disillusioned. But a few years ago, something changed.Once I got there, my anxiety melted away. Fast forward to the most recent InvestHer Con, which I attended several weeks ago. I went with a clear intention: to connect, learn, and grow. I had a plan, and I know that’s a big part of why my experience was so much better.

Creating Your Own Experience

One profound lesson I've learned is that we are always creating our own experiences. At InvestHer Con, I set specific intentions and approached the event with an open heart. I realized that the value of any event is largely dependent on our mindset and intentions.

Flowing Actively with Intention

Jonathan and I often discuss the concept of "flowing actively." It's about being curious and engaged rather than passive. When you approach an event—or any situation—with a specific intention, you create the potential for meaningful connections and opportunities.

Here are 3 ways you can create your own practice:

1.Set Your Intention:

Before attending any event, know what you want to achieve. Whether it's solving

a specific problem, making connections, or simply being present, having a clear

intention can transform your experience. What will advance you to your next goal or next level? That’s a great place to begin when creating your intentions.

2. Flow Actively with Curiosity:

Be open and curious. Engage with the content and people around you. Even if a session or speaker isn't captivating, look for the nuggets of wisdom that can still be valuable. What can you give? How can you add to the experience for others? Being an active, curious participant elevates the experience for you and for other attendees.

3. Hold Space and Give Grace:

Recognize that every speaker and attendee is on their own journey. By holding space and giving grace, you contribute positively to the collective experience. Jonathan explains that withholding judgment is another way to get the message meant for us.

Our experiences are what we make of them. By setting clear intentions, staying curious, and holding space for others, we can create positive, enriching experiences. I hope these insights help you feel empowered and inspired to approach your next conference or event with a fresh

perspective.

Thank you for being part of our journey on The Conscious Edge podcast. Together, let's continue to learn, grow, and create amazing experiences.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Hello love, it's Alecia St. Germain and I’m beyond excited to dive into today's topic, one

that is a pervasive issue in our culture – the art of receiving. Whether it's help, support,

gifts, or even a simple compliment, receiving is something many of us struggle with,

especially entrepreneurs. Jonathan Dugger, clinical psychologist and wellness expert, is

with me again as we dive into why this is so hard, and how we can look at receiving with

a different perspective.

The Struggle to Receive

Many of us have been conditioned to believe that receiving comes with strings attached.

Jonathan and I discussed how this mindset stems from a fear of obligation and a deep-

seated sense of unworthiness. Jonathan highlighted that culturally, we're often taught

it's better to give than to receive, which can skew our perception of receiving as a

passive or even a negative act. We can even interpret receiving as a signal that we

need help or are unable to do things on our own. He also touched on the dopamine effect we get when we give to others. We genuinely feel better. For some, chasing these feel-good moments can lead to issues around giving and self-worth.

The Power of Vulnerability

Receiving is not a sign of weakness. It's a powerful act of vulnerability. When we allow

ourselves to receive, we open up to new possibilities and strengthen our connections

with others. Jonathan shared an impactful story about working in a soup kitchen and

learning the importance of accepting gifts, even from those who seemingly had less to

give. This experience underscored that refusing help or kindness can rob others of their

joy and dignity.

Learning to Accept the Compliment

Jonathan shares a great example of accepting the kind words offered to us and a small

step we can take to help rewire our brain to shift from reluctance to acceptance.

Shifting the Narrative

One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation is the need to reframe our

understanding of control and worthiness. Many entrepreneurs struggle with delegating

tasks because they fear losing control. This perceived control can hinder growth and

prevent us from fully leveraging the talents of our teams. Instead, we should embrace

the idea that asking for and accepting help is a form of empowerment and a testament

to our leadership.

Practicing Self-Compassion

Jonathan and I also touched on the importance of self-compassion. When we negate

compliments or deflect positive feedback, we reinforce negative self-beliefs. Practicing

acceptance, whether it's a compliment or a helping hand, can significantly improve our

self-worth and overall mindset.

You Are Enough

I want to leave you with this final thought; remember that you are enough. Embrace the

power of receiving. It’s not just about making your life easier but also about creating a

culture of mutual support and respect. When we allow ourselves to receive, we make

space for growth, connection, and greater success.

Jonathan and I are here for you and we are thankful for your support as well. I hope this

episode inspires you to rethink the way you approach receiving in your life.

Resources:

The Go Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann

Episode 6: Why You Self-Sabotage

Welcome back, and if you’re joining us for the first time, we’re thrilled to have you here!

If you enjoy this podcast, please take a moment to subscribe.

I'm Alecia St. Germain, founder and coach at The Conscious Edge, where we help

women overcome procrastination, perfectionism, and imposter syndrome, enabling

them to build their businesses without burnout. Today, I am joined by my amazing co-

host, Jonathan Dugger, a real estate investor, clinical and sports psychologist, wellness

and holistic health expert, executive coach, and corporate leadership developer.

Today we’re diving into the transformative power of gratitude and gratefulness,

exploring how these practices can profoundly impact both personal and professional

life.

The Impatience Trap

Have you ever had moments in your business where you are impatient for the results to

show up? Jonathan and I discussed how impatience can lead to burnout, as we push ourselves

too hard trying to control every aspect of our progress.

Differentiating Gratitude and Gratefulness

Jonathan provided insightful distinctions between gratitude and gratefulness, explaining

that gratefulness is an expression of gratitude. Gratitude is a mindset, a way of

perceiving the world, while gratefulness is the heartfelt expression of that mindset. He

emphasized that gratitude rewires our brains, shifting our focus from what we lack to

appreciating our blessings.

Practicing Gratitude in Challenging Times

We also touched on the importance of finding gratitude even in difficult moments.

Jonathan shared a powerful story about being at a bank during a frustrating situation

following a series of tornadoes.

The Science and Simplicity of Gratitude

Jonathan and I discussed the science behind gratitude, referencing a leading

researcher in the field, Dr. Robert Emmons. His studies show that gratitude can

significantly enhance mental and physical health.

The Skill and Practice of Gratitude

Gratitude is a skill that can be developed with practice. It’s about shifting our focus from

what’s missing to what’s present and valuable in our lives. This shift can transform our

mindset, reduce stress, and increase joy.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe

and share it with others. Let’s continue to build a community centered on gratitude,

growth, and genuine human connection.

Together, we can create a more grateful and joyful world.

What to Do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed EP3

Dr. Robert Emmons

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

Hey Love, Alecia St. Germain here! Today, I had the pleasure of diving deep into a topic that’s incredibly popular and vital for personal growth and success: scarcity versus abundance. Jonathan Dugger, wellness advocate, doctor of psychology, and my longtime friend  helped me explore how these mindsets impact our lives, decisions, and overall well-being.

A Personal Story of Embracing Possibility

I vividly recall when I first decided to start my coaching practice. I was invited to a significant event in California, but I was hesitant because my son was still nursing. The moment I opened myself up to the possibility of bringing my kids along, everything fell into place effortlessly.

Understanding Scarcity in Our Culture

Jonathan explained how scarcity is deeply ingrained in our culture, often manifesting in a competitive and fear-based mindset. This perspective is self-limiting and fosters anxiety, depression, and overwhelm. It’s essential to recognize these patterns and consciously shift our focus to possibilities rather than limitations.

Moving Towards Abundance

One of the critical points we discussed was the importance of shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset. This involves a simple but profound change in how we frame our situations. Instead of viewing challenges as insurmountable, we can ask, “What is possible?” This small shift can transform our outlook and open up new opportunities.

 Addressing Toxic Abundance

We also touched on a critical aspect of practicing abundance, especially regarding financial decisions. I sometimes see people adopt a toxic form of abundance by spending excessively under the belief that “more is coming.” This mindset can lead to significant stress when the expected returns don’t materialize. True abundance involves mindful and strategic investments rather than reckless spending.

 Practical Tips for Shifting Mindsets

Jonathan reminds us that context is everything. Excessive spending and other distractions are often used to cover up something else we don’t want to think about or address. Instead, when you are thinking about spending he shared a question you can use to help ensure the decision is coming from a good place: “What’s the gift in this?” 

One of the core components of practicing abundance and making that shift is training your mind to think of the possibilities. What are the opportunities?

What Direction am I Heading? 

I ask myself and encourage my clients to ask “is making this choice moving me away from what I fear or moving me towards my vision?” This is a real opportunity for you to look at the places in your life where you feel scarcity. Ask yourself “where are the places in my life where I'm choosing a decision out of fear to move me away from something I fear versus when am I unattached to the results?” 

Make the Shift

Shifting from a scarcity to an abundance mindset is transformative. It impacts not only how we perceive challenges but also how we live our lives and pursue our goals. Abundance is about seeing opportunities and acting with intention and mindfulness.

Resources

Immunity to Change Episode

Sending you love and be well! 

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout.

Shifting Perspectives

Jonathan kicked off our conversation by highlighting a significant point: while we've heard about the importance of compassion towards others, we often neglect self-compassion. He shared that recent research has shown how vital self-compassion is for mental and physical health, relationship stability, and even job performance. It's game-changer for personal growth.

The Irony of Self-Criticism

One of the most eye-opening moments was when Jonathan mentioned how those who work in fields that require empathy, like healthcare or coaching, are often the hardest on themselves. It's ironic but true. We extend kindness to others yet struggle to apply the same principles to ourselves. As Jonathan put it, "People that tend to be healers... often we are some of the ones that are the hardest on ourselves."

The Mindfulness Piece

Mindfulness plays a crucial role in self-compassion. It's about stepping outside of ourselves and observing our thoughts and feelings without judgment. Jonathan illustrated this beautifully: "When that criticism starts to come in, we step outside and we just hit the pause button in that moment and say, okay, what's going on?

Self-Compassion is Not Self-Pity

We also debunked some myths. Self-compassion is not the same as self-pity or self-indulgence. It's about finding a balanced perspective and dealing with negative emotions constructively. Jonathan shared an anecdote from a lunch and learn session where someone equated self-compassion to having a pity party. He clarified that self- compassion involves an awareness of our shared human experience and is about responsible self-reflection.

Real-Life Application

I shared a personal story where I missed posting a coaching call recording. Initially, I felt terrible, but instead of making excuses, I owned up to my mistake and planned to correct it. This approach not only alleviated my discomfort but also allowed me to maintain my integrity and relationship with my clients. As Jonathan said, "Understanding context is really important. It’s about asking what can I do differently, or why did this happen? That’s not making an excuse, it’s looking for context on the way to understanding.”

Practice Self-Compassion

Our conversation could have continued for hours, but it's clear that self-compassion is not just a feel-good concept—it's a necessary practice for true growth and fulfillment.

Remember, the next time you catch yourself in a loop of self-criticism, take a step back, breathe, and approach yourself with the same kindness you'd offer a friend.

Thank you for joining us today. Let's continue to grow together by embracing self-compassion and fostering a more supportive inner dialogue. Until next time, be gentle with yourself and others.

Connect with Us

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer
• 
  

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout.

Your Potential: Understanding and Overcoming Self-Sabotage

Welcome back to another solo episode! Last week, I discussed four

unhealthy goal habits many of us encounter. Today, I want to dive deeper into

the underlying behaviors and feelings driving these habits, and more

importantly, how we can address them.

My journey into understanding these behaviors started while I was

training people to invest in real estate. I noticed most people couldn’t

achieve long-term success.

That’s when

I realized that people were getting in their own way. It became clear that

something deeper was at play.

Then, I stumbled upon an article about why we struggle to change. It

highlighted how we often engage in behaviors that work against our goals and

explained that self-sabotaging behavior was driven by underlying fears and

feelings.

This led me to the methodology I now use at The Conscious Edge and in my

program, The Exponential Entrepreneur. The highly-researched and

psychology-based process is called Immunity to ChangeTM, developed

by 2 Havard professors, Robert Keegan and Lisa Lahey. Their research shows that

our psychological immune system, designed to protect us, can actually hinder

our progress by holding onto limiting beliefs formed from past experiences.

For example, you might avoid making offers in your business because you

fear being seen as a sleazy salesperson. These fears are rooted in what Keegan and Lahey call “big assumptions.” These are deep-seated beliefs about the world and our place in it, often formed in childhood and carried into adulthood.

The Immunity to ChangeTM methodology helps us uncover these

big assumptions and question their validity. We can then start to rewire our

brains, challenging these beliefs and adopting new ones that align with our

goals. This isn’t about using sheer willpower or forcing ourselves to “do it

scared.”

This approach allows us to pursue our goals from a place of curiosity

and growth, rather than constant stress and fear.

One of my favorite parts of this process is the testing phase, where we

explore the validity of our big assumptions through small, safe behavior

changes. This not only helps us achieve our goals but also transforms our

overall approach to challenges, making us more resilient and adaptive.

If you’re interested in exploring your own assumptions that may be

stopping your progress, the first step is the free Immunity to ChangeTM

mapping workshop. This will help you map out your goals, identify

counterproductive behaviors, and uncover the fears driving them. It’s a process

that can change how you approach your goals and your life.

If you’d like my help and support as you do this work, consider applying

for The Exponential Entrepreneur program. We’re a supportive community

dedicated to helping each other rewire our brains and achieve our goals in a

holistic, sustainable way.

Immunity to Change Mapping Resource (Free)

 Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.

• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer
• 
  

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my

personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses

to increased impact and financial growth without

burnout. 

Welcome to the first solo episode. I’m Alecia St. Germain, founder of

Conscious Edge, and this podcast is all about the 4 most common unhealthy goal

habits that can trip you up. They can also be detrimental to your joy,

fulfillment, and overall well-being.

Unhealthy Goal Habits and Why it Matters

In my early days in coaching, I often set goals based on what others

wanted, or what I thought would make them happy.That’s why it’s so important to set goals that are aligned with your personal values and non-negotiables, rather than striving to meet others' standards.

 Four Unhealthy Goal Habits That May Be Stopping You

These goal habits often plague high-achievers. You may recognize one or

more, which is why I also want you to know where to start changing to other

strategies that will better support you.

1. Achieving Goals at All Costs

   - In this habit, your motto is “hit the goal or die trying,” and involves sacrificing personal needs and relationships to achieve business goals. 

What to do instead: Create goals keeping your non-negotiables in mind so it’s not either/or, it’s both/and. Ask yourself, “What do I need to hit my goals, while still keeping what’s most precious to me intact?”

2. Setting Goals Based on External Expectations

   - Many set goals to please others or prove their worth, which can lead to self-sabotage like perfectionism and procrastination. You may not even notice you’re doing this, until you realize that what matters to you may not always be what matters to others.

What to do instead: Recognize why you are procrastinating. Imagine yourself doing that thing you’ve been procrastinating.  What’s the fear that pops up for you? What would make you feel safe without the overwhelm of being perfect? How can you start there?

1. Resisting Goal Setting Completely

   - Have you heard the saying; never try, never fail? After experiencing burnout or failure some people decide to  avoid setting goals to escape potential disappointment and discomfort.

What to do instead: Take an internal assessment and ask yourself, “What am I making not hitting these goals mean about myself?”  Practice letting goals be a direction and information about what’s working and what’s not without attaching your personal value to the outcomes.

4. Pivoting When Goals Get Hard

   -Too often people choose to change direction when faced with challenges, many times unknowingly to avoid negative feelings. This comes from  a failure to build resilience and comes at the cost of financial stability.

 What to do instead: When negative emotions show up, recognize them and find out what they are trying to tell you. Instead of pivoting, dive in and see what’s underneath the discomfort. 

Transforming Your Approach to Goals

Aligning goals with your true vision and non-negotiables is how you can

avoid burnout and embrace joy. Instead, how can you shift your focus on

learning and growth as part of your process? By understanding the underlying

fears and motivations, you can set healthier, more sustainable goals.

I’d love to know what resonated with you. What type of challenges do you

have around goals and goal-setting? What would you like to do differently?

Be sure to check out episode 6 when it’s published to dive more into the

root cause of unhealthy goal habits.

Overcoming Unhealthy Goal Habits: A Path to Joy and Fulfillment

 Connect with Alecia:

• If you have ideas for topics to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my

personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses

to increased impact and financial growth without burnout

A successful entrepreneur and mentor, his story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a keen eye for opportunities, which have shaped his path to wealth creation. He’s been my friend and mentor for over 20 years, and I continue to be inspired by his kindness and his love for life.

From Healthcare to Real Estate: A Path Less Traveled

Jonathan's journey began with a strong inclination toward the health profession. He initially considered becoming a veterinarian and later pursued pre-med studies with aspirations of becoming a medical doctor. A transformative psychology class redirected his focus towards the mind-body connection and holistic wellness, influenced by his Native American heritage.

After several years in clinical practice, Jonathan grew disillusioned with the bureaucratic challenges of the healthcare system. I know many of us relate to that desire to eventually make a change so we can do work that is fulfilling, and Jonathan knew it was time to make a move. This dissatisfaction propelled him into entrepreneurship, where he established a consulting company and began exploring various business opportunities.

Embracing Real Estate: A Strategic Shift

Jonathan's first significant leap into real estate occurred serendipitously. While

consulting for a company in Dallas, Texas, he was introduced to real estate investment education. I love how Jonathan kept saying yes to new things! You’ll love his resourcefulness when he realized he’d prepared training with the wrong focus. He still made it work and it opened the door to more opportunities.

A pivotal conversation with a dentist who funded his passion for medical missions through real estate investments convinced Jonathan of the potential. that's when he began to immerse himself in real estate education and eventually started investing in single-family homes for fix-and-flip projects.

Venturing into Mobile Homes: A Niche with Potential

Jonathan's journey took another unexpected turn when a friend convinced him to attend a mobile home investing seminar. Although initially skeptical, he quickly recognized the untapped potential in this niche market. By the end of the first day, Jonathan was ready to invest in multiple mobile homes. His investment into the mobile home market proved to be highly rewarding, offering both financial returns and personal satisfaction from providing affordable housing solutions.

The Intersection of Passion, Purpose, and Prosperity

Throughout our conversation, a recurring theme was the alignment of passion, purpose, and prosperity. Jonathan's ability to pivot from healthcare to real estate, and eventually to mobile homes, exemplifies h w identifying and pursuing one's true calling can lead to both personal fulfillment and financial success.

Stay with us as we keep having conversations about wealth and wellness and what it means to live a truly joyful life.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout

Most people think of overwhelm as a feeling, something we experience. I’ve connected it to a thought to help me recognize it and minimize the impact.  The thought behind it for me is I am not capable of getting it all done or I'm not enough.

Once I realize that, I can acknowledge that isn’t true and I can begin to shift my thoughts around that. 

Jonathan outlined some of the symptoms of overwhelm that you’ll find familiar. Things like catastrophizing and exaggerating, along with self-deprecation, make us feel like we can’t handle what’s happening. 

He also reminds us that most of us don’t go from calm to overwhelm in an instant. It builds up over time so one of the best things we can do is learn to recognize it when it’s just starting. Then we can take steps to deescalate before negative patterns of behavior show up. 

What to do when you’re feeling overwhelmed. 

• Learn to spot the beginning feelings of overwhelm. 
• Get back into your body, ground yourself. Jonathan shares an easy technique that you can do anywhere, anytime.
• When you feel like you don’t have time to eat or take a break, recognize that it's overwhelm talking and stepping away will help.
• Use breathing exercises to calm your nervous system. Jonathan shares one he uses that you can try when overwhelm starts to creep in.

Grounding for even 60 seconds will change your biochemistry. Mindfulness techniques that you can do in a moment make a difference. When you’re in the midst of overwhelm the solution can feel out of reach but a few minutes to reset is a great first step. 

How to build resilience. 

What do we do once we’ve gotten back into our bodies and feel less out of control? All the things are still there, the list of things to do or the overbooked calendar. How do you move forward? I call it building resilience. We know things in life aren’t always easy, so having a few tools to rely on when needed helps.

• Think of the thing (or things) as neutral. Nothing is happening to you, it’s just what is. 
• Use humor.
• Have an honest conversation with yourself. Unconsciously, your brain says, “I’ll die if I don’t finish this.” It can often feel like everything will fall apart if you don’t do something, so ask yourself is that really true? 
• Identify the things you’re trying to control that are uncontrollable and let them go.
• Recognize what you can delegate or eliminate. It’s okay to have a pizza night, for example. 
• Ask for help. 
• Change your language from I have to and use phrases like I get to or I choose to. Simple changes but the energy is much different. 

The final thought I want to leave you with is around asking for help. Notice the places where it feels dangerous or uncomfortable or unsafe for you. Our perception is I have to do it or it won’t be done well, or it doesn’t count if I don’t do it all on my own. Are those perceptions really true? 

Acknowledging the thoughts behind the feeling is a great first step to building resilience and blocking overwhelm. 

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

realization about myself. I was enjoying the experience without any of the

snarky judgment that used to show up.

Today we’re talking about judgment. Self-judgment and judging others

both steal our joy. My friend Jonathan Dugger, wellness advocate and doctor of

psychology, is here with me again and we’re breaking down what to do when you

find yourself in the judgment zone.

Jonathan reminded me that petty judgements about superficial things,

like someone’s fashion sense, come from our own lack of self-awareness and lack

of self-worth so it’s no wonder that we can’t find joy in those moments.

Connection and judgment can’t coexist. I’ve had moments where someone

else is sharing their judgements with me, to create connection. It can be hard

not to dish about others so we have a rule in our family: no talking negatively

about someone else who is not in the conversation, or in the room where they

can join you.

Jonathan brought up a key point about relatability and real connection.

Connection is something that has lasting and powerful effects. Relating to

someone is often the first step to making a real connection.  It’s not going to feel very good to connect

with someone who’s using criticism of others to form a bond.

The energy of our words and emotions.

If you’re a mom, I know you’ll understand this. I often wake up just

before my son walks into the bedroom late at night. It’s this energetic

connection that I have with my kids, and I can feel when they need something

even before they come to me.

That energy we carry impacts everyone, so when we’re judging others,

energetically it’s not going to feel good. Jonathan explains the domino effect

of both positive and negative energetic properties.

We can perpetuate both or use one to change the other. Often a kind word

in response to someone’s negativity can be enough to change the energy for both

people.

What to do when judgment shows up?

●    Ask yourself where is this coming from? Why is it that instead of compassion for someone, I’m in judgment?

●      Since judgment often comes from feeling inadequate, see if you can

identify where this is hitting you and why it’s showing up this way.

●      Practice moments of joy. Stay in the moment.

●      Walk away from conversations that are fueled by gossip. You don’t have to shame others, but you don’t have to participate.

●      Be aware of the energy that comes when you move into judgment.

●      Practice staying  curious and see if you can find a way to

compassion.

The more we work on our own self-compassion, the easier it is to

practice compassion for others.

One of my go-to questions is “What am I making this mean?” when I find

myself feeling triggered or wanting to give someone a piece of my mind. The

answer often goes back to feeling love and compassion and releasing the need to

be right.

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout. 

A sincere desire to live a life of meaning, fulfillment, and joy. 

I’m joined by my good friend Jonathan Dugger. He’s a wellness advocate and doctor of psychology with his own passion for entrepreneurship and balance in life. Together we’re diving into what it really means to have true wealth. 

Conscious Leadership and Redefining Wealth

This isn't your typical business or self-help podcast. We aim to go beyond the usual productivity hacks and money-making strategies. Our focus is on creating a space to explore what true wealth and fulfillment mean to you. 

How do each of us find our own meaning around wealth and fulfillment? When we begin to get those answers, the path to getting there gets easier. 

Finding Joy in Your Work and Life

Wanting our work to be more than a means to an end isn’t new. What’s changing is how we get there. What does it mean to be aligned with your purpose? How can you find that spark of joy in your day, no matter what your work looks like or where your passions take you?

Entrepreneurs may be the term most often used, but this conversation is for anyone looking to create a holistic life experience that’s full of joy and fulfillment and well-being. 

Balance and Well-being in a Changing World

Jonathan emphasizes the importance of this mission, especially in a world that's been through so much change. He highlights the need for kindness to ourselves and a focus on balanced living – all key ingredients to true well-being. He also outlines what wellness means in the context of wealth and work. It doesn’t have to be one at the expense of the other. He’s been an incredible thought partner and sounding board for me, and I know you’ll find his insights helpful for you too. 

A Welcoming Space for Self-Discovery

More than just information, The Conscious Edge podcast is a safe space for exploration. I’m on my own mission to help entrepreneurs and professionals find the path forward that brings joy and meaning along with money and fulfillment. 

Looking Forward

This podcast is for anyone who wants more from life. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, I hope you find our blend of expertise and compassion to be a valuable resource to a more fulfilling life. 

We’re all on this journey together and I hope you’ll join in and be part of the conversation. 

Sending you love and be well!

Connect with Us:

• If you have ideas for topics you’d like us to cover, please email them to hello@consciousedge.com.
• Follow Alecia on Instagram for Bits of Joyful Inspiration
• Connect with Alecia on LinkedIn
• Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn
• Check out Jonathan Wellness Advocacy 
• Disclaimer

You can learn more about The Exponential Entrepreneur: my personal development group coaching program for established women entrepreneurs who deeply desire to confidently lead their businesses to increased impact and financial growth without burnout.