Why Saying Yes to Everything Costs You Money and Energy

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!

27:12

We are here at eTail Palm Springs and seeing and hearing the latest and greatest in e-commerce and retail. Question: Do you need to choose between AI and human recommendations as a customer? Why not have both? After all, don’t each have their strengths? AI in the retail experience is all the rage these days, but today I’m talking with someone from a brand that has been incorporating AI-personalized experiences and shopping combined with expert human recommendations for over 14 years, and continues to innovate today. Today we’re going to talk about how AI-based personalization plus human creativity and input makes an amazing customer experience at Stitch Fix. To help me discuss this topic, I’d like to welcome Noah Zamansky, Vice President of Product and Client Experience at Stitch Fix. About Noah Zamansky Noah Zamansky serves as the Vice President of Product and Client Experience at Stitch Fix, where he leads cross-functional teams spanning Product, Design, Engineering, Algorithms, and Platform Development. A seasoned leader, Noah has a proven track record of shaping product vision and strategy, designing exceptional user experiences, and spearheading the launch of new business ventures. Before joining Stitch Fix, Noah held the role of Senior Director of Product Management at eBay, overseeing Fashion and Vertical Experiences. Resources Stitch Fix: https://www.stitchfix.com eTail Palm Springs: https://etailwest.wbresearch.com/ Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstrom Listen to The Agile Brand without the ads. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/3ymf7hd Don't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.show Check out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company…

год назад 13:30

MP3•Главная эпизода

In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, Samantha Eck dives into the often-overlooked power of saying no in your business. Learn why setting clear boundaries protects your time, energy, and finances, and how saying no to the wrong opportunities makes space for the right ones. Samantha shares personal stories, practical tips, and actionable advice to help you confidently say no without guilt, build strong financial boundaries, and attract clients who value your worth.

Connect with Samantha:

Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/

Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1

Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here.

38 эпизодов

#Business #Finance #Entrepreneurship #Small Business #MBA #Entrepreneur #Samantha Eck | Bookkeeper for Creatives #Creativity

Why Saying Yes to Everything Costs You Money and Energy

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

published год назад

MP3•Главная эпизода

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!

Connect with Samantha:

Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/

Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1

Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here.

38 эпизодов

#Business #Finance #Entrepreneurship #Small Business #MBA #Entrepreneur #Samantha Eck | Bookkeeper for Creatives #Creativity

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1
Secrets to High-Converting Email Funnels with Melissa Esmeralda 29:23

2 дня назад29:23

29:23

Your email list is more than just names in a database—it’s the foundation of your marketing strategy. But if your emails aren’t converting, you’re leaving money on the table. In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Esmeralda, a conversion copywriter and funnel optimization strategist, to uncover what makes email marketing work. From writing lead magnet landing pages that actually attract your ideal client to setting up automation that nurtures and converts, Melissa shares insights that will help you optimize your email strategy for better engagement, more sales, and less stress. Whether you're just getting started with email marketing or want to refine your existing funnel, this episode is packed with practical, no-fluff strategies you can implement right away. What You’ll Learn: The biggest mistakes people make with email marketing and how to fix them How to write lead magnet landing pages that actually convert The secret to writing emails that feel authentic and still drive sales How segmentation and automation can increase your conversions A real-life example of an email sequence that boosted conversion rates by 15% Hit PLAY to start crafting an email strategy that works for you! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Connect with Melissa: Website: https://www.meomarketinggroup.com/ Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MEOMarketingGroup Threads: threads.com/meomarketinggroup Freebie:: https://meomarketinggroup.thrivecart.com/subjectlineformulas/ Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Building a Resilient Creative Business 11:40

9 дней назад11:40

11:40

Recession-proofing your creative business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, we’re diving into practical strategies to help your business not just survive—but thrive—during tough economic times. Plus, discover how to create a three-month financial safety plan and explore new skills to future-proof your business. Tough times reveal what we’re made of, and your resilience as a creative entrepreneur can lead to your next big success. If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow business owner and subscribe for more insights to help you grow your creative business. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
The Subscription Detox You Need 11:13

16 дней назад11:13

11:13

Are subscriptions draining your business budget? As creative entrepreneurs, it’s easy to get caught up in shiny new tools. But those $10, $20, or $50 subscriptions add up fast. In this episode, we’re diving into how to identify subscription overload, audit your expenses, and save money without sacrificing the tools you need. Every dollar saved is money you can reinvest in your business—or pay yourself! Ready to take control of your expenses? Start by auditing your subscriptions today. If this episode was helpful, share it with a fellow entrepreneur, subscribe for more money-saving tips, and leave a review to let us know what you think! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Business Debt 13:33

23 дня назад13:33

13:33

In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , Samantha Eck dives into the often misunderstood world of debt. Debt isn’t inherently bad—it’s a tool that can either help your business grow or drag it down. Learn the difference between good and bad debt, how to spot debt traps, and smart alternatives to borrowing. Whether you're financing equipment, managing cash flow, or avoiding high-interest loans, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make intentional financial decisions. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Tax Deductions Every Creative Should Know 14:08

4 weeks назад14:08

14:08

Welcome back to the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast ! In this episode, Samantha Eck shares essential tax deductions that creative entrepreneurs often overlook. Whether you're an artist, photographer, or service provider, discover how to save more money by maximizing your tax savings. From the home office deduction to software expenses, learn how to make every dollar work for you. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Quarterly Taxes Explained for Creatives 11:30

5 weeks назад11:30

11:30

Welcome back to Creative Minds Smart Money ! In today’s episode, Samantha dives into a topic that leaves many creative entrepreneurs scratching their heads: quarterly taxes. If the idea of quarterly tax payments makes you feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone—but don’t worry! This episode breaks it all down so you can tackle quarterly taxes with clarity and confidence. With practical advice and actionable steps, this episode will empower you to stay on top of your taxes so you can focus on running your business stress-free. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship for Creatives 14:48

6 weeks назад14:48

14:48

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! Welcome back to Creative Minds Smart Money ! In this episode, Samantha breaks down one of the most important decisions for creative entrepreneurs: Should you structure your business as a sole proprietor or an LLC? z7l4Cu0Zvn90AnkdihDa What You’ll Learn: The key differences between an LLC and sole proprietorship. How each structure impacts your taxes, liability, and credibility. Pros and cons of being a sole proprietor (low cost but no liability protection). Why an LLC can protect your personal assets and offer flexibility for growth. What it means to transition to an S Corp (and when to consider it). Questions to ask yourself to decide which is the right fit for your business. Samantha provides actionable insights to help you align your business structure with your goals, budget, and long-term vision. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Take Control of Your Finances with Smart Budgeting 13:32

7 weeks назад13:32

13:32

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! Welcome back to Creative Minds Smart Money ! In today’s episode, Samantha dives into the magic of budgeting for creative entrepreneurs. Spoiler alert: budgeting isn’t about cutting out the things you love it’s about giving every dollar a purpose. Budgeting is the roadmap to sustainable growth and financial freedom—it’s about putting your money to work for you. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Why Saying Yes to Everything Costs You Money and Energy 13:30

8 weeks назад13:30

13:30

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , Samantha Eck dives into the often-overlooked power of saying no in your business. Learn why setting clear boundaries protects your time, energy, and finances, and how saying no to the wrong opportunities makes space for the right ones. Samantha shares personal stories, practical tips, and actionable advice to help you confidently say no without guilt, build strong financial boundaries, and attract clients who value your worth. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Hiring Help Without Breaking The Bank 13:48

9 weeks назад13:48

13:48

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! Feeling overwhelmed in your business? It might be time to hire help—but can you afford it? In this episode, Samantha Eck breaks down how to financially prepare for hiring, whether it's a contractor, employee, or assistant. Learn how to evaluate your numbers, create a budget, and build a financial cushion to make hiring stress-free. Plus, Samantha shares actionable steps for testing the waters and ensuring your new hire fits your business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why hiring help can grow your business and boost efficiency. How to identify low-value tasks to delegate. The importance of knowing your revenue, expenses, and profit before hiring. How to build a financial cushion (2–3 months of pay) to protect your business. Ways to start small and test the waters with a new hire. How to evaluate if your hire is meeting expectations and delivering ROI. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Bench Accounting is Back? Should You Trust Them? 8:50

10 weeks назад8:50

8:50

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In this episode, Samantha Eck dives into the recent acquisition of Bench Accounting by Employer.com. Learn what this transition means for Bench users, the risks involved, and the critical questions you need to ask before deciding whether to stay or switch. Samantha breaks down the importance of data ownership, reliable bookkeeping partnerships, and rebuilding trust after Bench's abrupt shutdown. What You’ll Learn: The latest update on Bench Accounting’s acquisition. Key risks of transitioning your financial data to Employer.com. 3 crucial questions to guide your decision: Is data ownership important to you? Do you need a reliable, dedicated bookkeeping partner? Can you trust Bench’s new ownership after their abrupt closure? Resources Mentioned: Alternatives to Bench: QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, FreshBooks. Contact Samantha for discounted catch-up services. Previous episode: Bench Accounting Shut Down Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
Bench Accounting Shutdown What to Do Next 13:57

10 weeks назад13:57

13:57

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In today’s episode, Samantha tackles the sudden Bench Accounting shutdown that has left many small business owners scrambling to recover their financial data. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—this episode is packed with actionable steps to help you transition smoothly and protect your business moving forward. In this episode, Samantha shares: How to recover your data before it’s gone. Steps to transition to a new bookkeeping system. Tips to issue 1099s and prepare for tax season. Advice on keeping your financials accurate and secure. Key Dates to Remember: December 30th : Bench releases client data for download. January 31st : Deadline to issue 1099s to contractors. Pro Tip: Prioritize downloading your data and issuing 1099s to contractors, then work through your financials month by month to ensure accuracy before tax season. If this episode was helpful, please leave a review and share it with a fellow business owner in need. Remember, you’re not alone—help is just a message away. Let’s thrive together, even through the toughest transitions! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
How to Focus on Profit and Stop Chasing Revenue 7:36

10 weeks назад7:36

7:36

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , Samantha breaks down the critical difference between profit and revenue two terms that often trip up creative entrepreneurs. If you’ve ever wondered why you’re making money but still feel broke, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: The difference between revenue (your total income) and profit (what’s left after expenses). Why focusing on profit is more important than chasing big revenue numbers. Common mistakes creatives make with their finances (and how to fix them). How to audit your expenses, adjust your pricing, and set profit-driven goals for next year. Stop the cycle of working hard and feeling broke Samantha gives you actionable steps to build a sustainable, profitable business. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

1
How to Use Blogging to Grow Your Creative Business with Inkpot Creative 34:30

11 weeks назад34:30

34:30

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , Samantha chats with KP and Jesse from Inkpot Creative about how blogging can be a game-changer for creative entrepreneurs. Learn how to use blogging to drive traffic, build trust, and attract your dream clients—all without feeling overwhelmed. What You’ll Learn: Easy steps to start blogging (even if you’re not a writer). Why blogging is a long-term traffic tool that works for years. How to balance free value with showcasing your expertise. Simple SEO tips to get your blog seen by more people. Time-saving hacks to make blogging manageable for busy creatives. Creative ways to repurpose blog content across platforms. KP and Jesse share actionable tips to make blogging stress-free and impactful for your business. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/ajmiv1kyt1 Connect with KP & Jessie: Website: https://inkpotcreative.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/inkpotcreative Threads: https://www.threads.net/@inkpotcreative Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inkpotcreative Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

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Plan Next Year’s Success with a Year-End Financial Review 11:29

12 weeks назад11:29