How To Know If You Are About To Level UP

Scale your Business with a Team

What if the biggest thing holding your business back is trying to do everything yourself? In this episode of The Business of Thinking Big, Lianne Kim shares her honest journey from solopreneur to CEO and breaks down what it really looks like to build a supportive, aligned team. Lianne explains why so many entrepreneurs get stuck doing tasks that drain their energy — and how hiring the right people can help you scale your business, experience more joy, and make a greater impact. She also shares the mindset shifts that helped her move out of “doing all the things” and into true leadership, along with practical advice on hiring, delegation, and finding team members who genuinely believe in your mission. Whether you’re thinking about hiring your first VA or growing a larger team, this episode offers valuable insights on building a business that doesn’t rely entirely on you. In this episode, you’ll learn: * Why many entrepreneurs resist building a team * The difference between being the architect vs. the bricklayer in your business * How team support helps you scale sustainably * Why leadership is a skill you can learn * The three key qualities Lianne looks for when hiring * How the right team creates more joy and freedom * Why mission-aligned people matter more than just technical skills * Resources and podcast episodes to help you grow as a leader Timestamps: 00:00 – Why building a team matters 03:00 – The role of AI and modern business teams 05:00 – The signs you need support in your business 07:00 – The “architect vs. bricklayer” analogy 10:00 – Why visionary leaders need strong support 12:00 – Recommended books for leadership and team-building 14:00 – How teams help businesses scale 15:00 – Creating more joy through delegation 17:00 – The connection between team and impact 18:00 – Why leadership is a learnable skill 20:00 – The mindset shift from doing to leading 21:00 – Delegating vs. true leadership 24:00 – The three qualities Lianne looks for in team members 27:00 – Why mission alignment matters 30:00 – Client examples of scaling through team support 39:00 – Final thoughts on leadership and growth 41:00 – How to work with Lianne Links mentioned: Connect with me: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]Instagram: @liannekimcoach Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]Instagram: @mamasandco — ‌Connect with me:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]   Instagram: @liannekimcoach [https://www.instagram.com/liannekimcoach] Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]  Instagram: @mamasandco [https://www.instagram.com/mamasandco] Podcasting support: https://theultimatecreative.com [https://theultimatecreative.com]

Quick Tip: Sales Vs. Marketing

Why does marketing feel so heavy for so many entrepreneurs? In this quick tip episode of The Business of Thinking Big, Lianne Kim breaks down the key difference between marketing and sales — and why understanding the two can completely change the way you show up online. Lianne explains why marketing isn’t about convincing people to buy immediately, but rather about helping potential clients get to know you, trust you, and understand how you can help. She also shares how strong marketing naturally makes sales conversations easier, lighter, and more effective. If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable promoting yourself online or worried about sounding “salesy,” this episode will help you reframe your approach and simplify your process. In this episode, you’ll learn: * The real difference between marketing and sales * Why your marketing shouldn’t feel pushy or perfect * How to warm up potential clients before selling * Why discovery calls become easier with strong marketing * The role trust plays in converting clients * How great client results fuel future sales and referrals * Why serving clients well is the key to long-term growth Timestamps:‌ ‌ 00:00 – Why marketing feels heavy for entrepreneurs 02:00 – The difference between sales and marketing 03:00 – Why marketing is like dating 05:00 – The biggest mistake people make in marketing 06:00 – What should happen in a sales conversation 08:00 – Why strong marketing makes sales easier 10:00 – Reframing marketing as education 11:00 – Creating urgency without being pushy 12:00 – Why client results matter for future sales 13:00 – How testimonials become marketing tools 14:00 – The connection between confidence and serving clients well Links mentioned:  Connect with me: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]Instagram: @liannekimcoach Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]Instagram: @mamasandco — ‌Connect with me:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]   Instagram: @liannekimcoach [https://www.instagram.com/liannekimcoach] Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]  Instagram: @mamasandco [https://www.instagram.com/mamasandco] Podcasting support: https://theultimatecreative.com [https://theultimatecreative.com]

Create a Raving Fan Client base

What turns a casual customer into a lifelong supporter of your business? In this solo episode of The Business of Thinking Big, Lianne Kim shares the strategies that helped her build a thriving community over the last 12 years — one fueled largely by word-of-mouth marketing, loyal members, and genuine connection. Lianne breaks down what it really means to create “raving fans” and why customer loyalty goes far beyond making a single sale. From repeat buyers and glowing testimonials to referrals and long-term community relationships, she explains the key behaviors that help businesses grow sustainably. She also shares the three things every business owner should focus on if they want clients to stay, succeed, and spread the word: * Making people feel special * Making people feel supported * Making people feel successful Whether you run a coaching business, membership, service-based company, or online brand, this episode offers simple but powerful ways to deepen customer loyalty and create an experience people can’t stop talking about. Timestamps:‌ ‌ 00:00 – Building a community of raving fans 02:00 – What makes someone a true raving fan 04:00 – The four R’s of customer loyalty 08:00 – Why repeat customers matter more than new leads 10:00 – Making customers feel special from day one 12:00 – Personal touches that create lasting loyalty 14:00 – How community creates support and connection 16:00 – The power of accountability and networking 18:00 – Why celebrating wins builds momentum 20:00 – Helping clients feel successful 21:00 – Ignoring haters and staying focused 22:00 – Handling difficult community members 24:00 – Why building with a team matters 26:00 – Final thoughts on creating loyal customers Links mentioned: Connect with me: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]Instagram: @liannekimcoach Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]Instagram: @mamasandco — ‌Connect with me:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]   Instagram: @liannekimcoach [https://www.instagram.com/liannekimcoach] Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]  Instagram: @mamasandco [https://www.instagram.com/mamasandco] Podcasting support: https://theultimatecreative.com [https://theultimatecreative.com]

The Importance of Play with Hassan Haidar

What if the missing piece in your business growth isn’t working harder — but getting outside more? In this episode of The Business of Thinking Big, Lianne sits down with wellness entrepreneur and Day Trips founder Hassan Haidar for a fascinating conversation about nature, nervous system regulation, creativity, and why modern entrepreneurs are more overstimulated than ever. Hassan shares how the pandemic inspired him to start curating adventure-filled day trips outside Toronto — and why experiences like hiking, cold plunging, breathwork, and even simply sitting by water can dramatically improve focus, creativity, and mental clarity. Together, they explore: * Why entrepreneurs are experiencing burnout and “brain rot” * The connection between overstimulation, cortisol, and creativity * How novelty and adventure help reset the brain * Why play is essential for adults — not just kids * The growing demand for real-life, phone-free experiences * How nature helps entrepreneurs reconnect to themselves and others This episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation: to unplug, get outside, and remember what it feels like to truly be present. Timestamps:‌ ‌ 00:00 — Introducing Hassan Haidar and the story behind Day Trips 03:00 — Hassan's journey into breathwork, cold exposure, and wellness 05:00 – Why adults need play and adventure too 07:00 – The benefits of nature for entrepreneurs and busy professionals 08:00 – How panoramic views naturally reduce stress and cortisol 10:00 – The hidden impact of screens on our nervous systems 12:00 – Why modern life leaves us overstimulated 14:00 – Nature, ADHD, and the power of presence 15:00 – How hiking activates creativity and problem-solving 17:00 – Nature as a deep clean for the mind 19:00 – Forced presence, flow states, and creativity 21:00 – Why novelty is essential for happiness and growth 23:00 – Feeling stuck, burned out, or trapped in a routine 25:00 – The lessons nature teaches about surrender and resilience 27:00 – Reconnecting with nature in an AI-driven world 29:00 – Why entrepreneurs need novelty as much as stability 31:00 – The rise of in-person experiences and digital fatigue 34:00 – Will phone-free experiences become the future? 36:00 – Social media, connection, and the next generation 39:00 – Hidden gems and outdoor adventures around Ontario 44:00 – Building community through shared experiences 47:00 – What makes Day Trips different 48:00 – Hassan's advice for anyone feeling drained, overwhelmed, or disconnected 49:00 – Where to connect with Hassan and Day Trips Links mentioned: Daytrips Toronto Instagram: @daytripsto Daytrips Toronto TikTok: @daytripsto Daytrips Website: Daytrips Toronto Wim Hof Method: Wim Hof Method [https://www.wimhofmethod.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Body Blitz Spa: Body Blitz Spa — ‌Connect with me:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]   Instagram: @liannekimcoach [https://www.instagram.com/liannekimcoach] Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]  Instagram: @mamasandco [https://www.instagram.com/mamasandco] Podcasting support: https://theultimatecreative.com [https://theultimatecreative.com]

Systems For Success

Feeling frustrated in your business? That might actually be a good thing. In this episode, Lianne Kim unpacks the power of systems and why the moments that feel the most draining, repetitive, or chaotic are often pointing you directly toward what needs to be streamlined in your business. From invoicing and email marketing to project management and content creation, Lianne shares real examples of how her own systems evolved over the years — and how creating better systems allowed her to spend more time in her zone of genius instead of getting stuck in the weeds. Whether you’re still doing everything manually or starting to build a team, this episode will help you identify the bottlenecks in your business and begin creating systems that support more ease, efficiency, and joy. In‌ ‌this‌ ‌episode,‌ ‌you’ll discover:‌ * Why frustration is often a sign that a better system is needed * How to identify the tasks that are draining your energy and slowing you down * The difference between having a system and having an effective system * Real examples of how Lianne evolved her systems for invoicing, client communication, project management, and online courses * Why you don’t need to know how to do everything yourself * How to use community, team members, and experts to help streamline your business * Questions to ask yourself when evaluating or upgrading your systems * Why creating efficiencies leads to more freedom, flow, and joy as an entrepreneur Timestamps:‌ ‌ 00:00 – Why frustration in business is often a sign you need better systems 02:00 – The tasks entrepreneurs secretly dread doing 03:00 – How systems create more space for your zone of genius 05:00 – Identifying where you’re feeling bogged down in your business 08:00 – Lianne’s early invoicing system (and why it stopped working) 10:00 – Upgrading from manual systems to Wave and QuickBooks 14:00 – E-commerce systems, websites, and knowing when to upgrade 16:00 – Why Lianne moved her courses and memberships to Kajabi 18:00 – Email marketing systems and the evolution from Gmail to ActiveCampaign 24:00 – Content creation systems, batching, and scheduling tools 27:00 – Questions to ask when building or improving systems 28:00 – How team members can help identify and implement better systems 29:00 – Choosing a project management platform and using free trials wisely 32:00 – The key systems every entrepreneur eventually needs 33:00 – Start with the biggest pain point first — ‌Connect with me:   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach [https://www.facebook.com/liannekimcoach]   Instagram: @liannekimcoach [https://www.instagram.com/liannekimcoach] Join the Mamas & Co. community to get access to valuable resources and the support of likeminded mompreneurs and mentors: https://www.mamasandco.com [https://www.mamasandco.com]  Instagram: @mamasandco [https://www.instagram.com/mamasandco] Podcasting support: https://theultimatecreative.com [https://theultimatecreative.com]