Introduction (0:01 – 7:50)
Agatha Brewer introduces the podcast, which focuses on helping solopreneurs build a purposeful and successful service-based business.
Guest introduction: Carly Ries, Fractional Chief Marketing Officer at Lifestarr, shares her passion for helping solopreneurs build businesses that align with their values.

Discussion on solopreneurship:

• Many people want to become solopreneurs but struggle with where to start.
• Lifestarr serves as a resource hub for solopreneurs, offering guidance on essential business steps like forming an LLC and marketing strategies.
• Agatha and Carly discuss how solopreneurs often feel isolated due to a lack of dedicated resources and communities.

Carly’s Journey into Solopreneurship (7:51 – 14:54)
Corporate burnout & transition:

• Carly spent nearly two decades in marketing, working with both small businesses and large corporations.
• In 2016, she left her corporate job to pursue a solopreneur lifestyle after realizing her work-life balance was lacking, even while traveling as a digital nomad.

Becoming a Fractional CMO:

• She connected with Joe Rando (CEO of Lifestarr) and took on a part-time marketing role to support solopreneurs.
• She enjoys the freedom to choose projects and clients that align with her interests.

Comparison of corporate life vs. solopreneurship:

• Solopreneurship provides more control, but it also requires strategic decision-making and self-discipline.
• The misconception that working for yourself is “easy” is debunked—it still involves responsibilities, client work, and time management.

Marketing Strategies for Solopreneurs (14:55 – 23:00)
What new solopreneurs should focus on:

• Prioritizing face-to-face networking over complex marketing funnels.
• Many solopreneurs only need a handful of clients, making direct relationships more effective than broad online campaigns.
• Example: Reaching out personally to connections, joining networking groups, and leveraging word-of-mouth.
• Informing your network about what you do.
• Carly shares a personal story about her family misunderstanding her job role.
• Sending periodic email updates about your business can help generate referrals.
• Choosing one marketing channel to master first.
• Instead of trying to do SEO, social media, email campaigns, and blogging all at once, solopreneurs should focus on the platform where their audience is most active.
• Example: A pet photographer focusing on local dog parks and pet-friendly cafes rather than competing online.
  
  

   

What solopreneurs often get wrong:

• Trying to do everything at once.
• Many feel pressured to be on every social platform, which leads to burnout without meaningful results.
• Not recognizing when to outsource.
• Solopreneurs should delegate tasks like PPC advertising or bookkeeping if they aren’t skilled in those areas.
• Possible alternative: Trading services with other solopreneurs instead of paying for everything.
• Not saying “no” enough.
• Taking on ill-fitting clients can lead to stress and a poor work experience.
• Learning to say no to misaligned projects opens space for better opportunities.

Challenges Solopreneurs Face (23:01 – 29:59)
Lead generation:

• Many solopreneurs struggle to consistently attract new clients.
• The crowded digital space makes traditional inbound marketing harder than it used to be.
  
  

Perfectionism & fear of launching:

• Waiting for everything to be “perfect” can delay progress.
• It’s better to launch, learn, and improve rather than wait indefinitely.
  
  

Imposter syndrome & self-doubt:

• Even experienced professionals struggle with confidence.
• Agatha references how even high-profile figures (like Oprah’s interviewees) often seek validation.
  
  

Burnout & overworking:

• The freedom of solopreneurship can lead to working around the clock.
• Establishing boundaries and practicing self-care is crucial.

Final Thoughts (29:59 – End)
Marketing is about finding what works for you.
Solopreneurs should focus on strategies that align with their strengths and business goals.
Networking and personal connections remain powerful tools to find clients.
Instead of chasing social media trends, building genuine relationships can lead to more sustainable success.

Mindset matters:

• Confidence, resilience, and knowing when to pivot are key to thriving as a solopreneur.
  
  

   

Key Takeaways:
1. Networking and personal connections are more valuable than complicated marketing funnels.
2. Start small—focus on one marketing channel before expanding.
3. Clearly communicate what you do to your network to attract referrals.
4. Outsource or trade services to avoid burnout.
5. Say no to bad-fit clients to create space for better opportunities.
6. Progress over perfection—launch first, refine later.
7. Mindset and self-care are essential for long-term success.