You're saving receipts, but are you actually using them? Most creative entrepreneurs treat receipts like paperwork clutter—tossing them in a shoebox or snapping photos that disappear into their camera roll. But receipts aren't just about IRS compliance. They're the details that protect your business, clarify your spending, and give you real financial power when organized correctly. Topics Covered Why the IRS requires receipts over $75 — and why you should keep receipts for smaller purchases anyway to maintain complete financial clarity The difference between keeping receipts and using receipts — how premium bookkeeping turns that pile of paper into actionable insights for your business What counts as a valid receipt — digital confirmations, invoices, and itemized statements all qualify as proof of business expenses How receipts prevent audit nightmares — attaching receipts to every transaction creates "bulletproof books" that protect you if the IRS ever has questions Why receipts matter for categorization — a charge labeled "Amazon" could be office supplies, inventory, or client gifts, and only the receipt can tell the real story The premium bookkeeping advantage — how organized, attached receipts save hours of stress and give you deeper cashflow awareness by showing exactly what you bought and why Simple systems for capturing receipts in real time — snap a photo the moment you get it, upload to your bookkeeper's system, and never let receipts float around unattached again Receipts are leverage. When they're handled right, they give you credibility, clarity, and control. If you shove them in a shoebox and forget about them, they're just clutter. But when you integrate them into your financial story, those details protect and empower you as a business owner. It's worth keeping them clean and organized. Resources & Links Website: https://firestormfinance.com/ Podcast Home: https://firestormfinance.com/podcast/ Book a Discovery Call (primary CTA): https://firestormfinance.com/contact Listen & Subscribe (secondary CTA): Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-minds-smart-money-finance-business-tips-for/id1751025388 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2m2SRDIAEjeWSXOgKS4Ff4 Social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance Threads: https://www.threads.com/@firestormfinance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firestormfinance YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FirestormFinance Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/

Your bookkeeping categories aren't just for tax season—they're the foundation of every smart money decision you make in your business. If you've been treating categorization like a compliance checkbox, you're missing out on the clarity that drives profitability, cash flow planning, and confident pricing. In this episode of Creative Minds, Smart Money, I break down why categorization matters far beyond what you send to the IRS, and how custom categories can transform the way you understand and grow your creative business. Topics Covered In this episode, I cover: Why categorization is about more than taxes – How your categories write your financial story and reveal where your money is actually going The profitability problem with broad buckets – Why lumping expenses together (like "software and subscriptions") hides what's eating your profit Decision-making clarity – How clean categories help you answer critical questions like "Can I afford to hire?" and "Which service is most profitable?" Cash flow planning made easier – Why separating recurring costs from one-time expenses helps you forecast what's coming due each month Pricing strategy with confidence – Understanding your true cost of service delivery so you can price without guessing Benchmarking your business – Using custom categories to compare your spending against industry standards and identify where you're overspending Real examples of categorization in action – From miscellaneous expense disasters to tracking profitability by service package or client tier Accountability and peace of mind – How seeing where your money goes leads to more intentional spending choices and reports that actually serve your business Categorization isn't just about keeping the IRS happy—it's about giving yourself the financial clarity you need to make smarter, more confident decisions every single day. When your categories reflect the real story of your business, you stop guessing and start knowing. 🎧 Hit play now and discover how a few strategic tweaks to your categorization can completely transform your financial picture. Resources & Links Website: https://firestormfinance.com/ Podcast Home: https://firestormfinance.com/podcast/ Book a Discovery Call: https://firestormfinance.com/contact Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-minds-smart-money-finance-business-tips-for/id1751025388 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2m2SRDIAEjeWSXOgKS4Ff4 Free Resources: Strategic Success Mini Workshop QuickBooks Setup Checklist 5-Minute Money Clarity Checklist Social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance Threads: https://www.threads.com/@firestormfinance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firestormfinance YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FirestormFinance Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/

AI-powered bookkeeping tools promise to automate your financial life and save you money—but at what cost? Everyone online makes AI sound like the magic fix for messy books, but here's the truth: I see creative entrepreneurs rely too heavily on automation and end up with misclassified transactions, compliance nightmares, and zero strategic insight into their numbers. In this episode of Creative Minds, Smart Money, I break down the real risks of AI in bookkeeping and why pairing technology with human expertise is the smartest path forward. I walk through where AI shows up in bookkeeping right now—QuickBooks' new AI categorization, Xero, Wave, and tools like Puzzle.io—and explain why the technology isn't ready to replace the nuance, context, and judgment your business needs. You'll leave understanding exactly where AI falls short and how to use it as a tool (not a replacement) so your books stay accurate, compliant, and actually help you make decisions. In this episode, I cover: Where AI shows up in bookkeeping today—automated transaction categorization in QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, and AI-first platforms like Puzzle.io that still recommend human oversight Why misclassification is the biggest risk—how AI can't differentiate between a Starbucks gift card, a networking coffee, or a sponsorship expense, and why those errors distort profit margins and tax deductions Context blindness AI can't solve—why AI won't ask why your revenue dipped, whether a big expense is a one-time investment or an asset, or if payroll shifts are seasonal versus permanent Compliance issues that require human judgment—sales tax rules, industry-specific regulations, and IRS red flags (like the difference between 50% deductible meals and client gifts) that AI doesn't understand The overconfidence trap—why assuming the computer got it right leads to compounding errors over time, especially without regular human oversight What bookkeepers catch that AI can't—patterns like fraud, duplicate charges, seasonality, client behavior shifts, and the context behind your numbers The balance between AI and bookkeepers—how to treat AI as an assistant that speeds up work while keeping a human in the loop for strategy, insight, and compliance If you've been tempted to let AI handle your books completely—or you're wondering if your bookkeeper is even necessary anymore—this episode will change how you think about the role of technology versus human insight in your financial foundation. 🎧 Hit play now and learn how to use AI smartly without sacrificing accuracy, compliance, or the strategic support your business needs. Resources & Links Website: https://firestormfinance.com/ Podcast Home: https://firestormfinance.com/podcast/ Book a Discovery Call: https://firestormfinance.com/contact Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-minds-smart-money-finance-business-tips-for/id1751025388 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2m2SRDIAEjeWSXOgKS4Ff4 Social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance Threads: https://www.threads.com/@firestormfinance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firestormfinance YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FirestormFinance Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/

Everyone online makes bookkeeping platforms sound like a magic fix: low cost, hands-off, done-for-you. But here’s the truth—I see creatives pick a platform too fast (or switch too late) and end up with messy categorization, limited data ownership, and zero strategic insight. In this episode of Creative Minds, Smart Money, I break down how to choose between a bookkeeping platform vs. a bookkeeper, when to switch, and how to keep your bookkeeping data portable no matter what you pick. I walk through the real trade-offs between popular platform bookkeeping options—Bench, Collective, Pilot, Xendoo, inDinero, Paro, KPMG Spark—and hiring a dedicated bookkeeper for creatives who knows your business inside and out. You’ll leave with a simple decision rubric to evaluate scope, continuity, and bookkeeping migration concerns, so your numbers actually help you make decisions. In this episode, I cover: Platform bookkeeping vs. dedicated bookkeeper—what you’re truly buying (beyond “my books are done”) How your business model (offers, payment processors like Stripe/Square/ThriveCart, sales tax, payroll) changes the answer Data ownership & portability: set up your stack so you’re never stuck if you switch (think QuickBooks or Xero access, exports, reporting) Continuity & context: why a single point of contact can prevent rework and errors as you grow Red flags it’s time to switch: multiple revenue streams, contractors, inventory, or new growth plans Questions to ask before choosing (scope, SLAs, cleanup policies, reporting, migration/export options) A quick decision rubric to pick your best-fit today—and revisit in 6–12 months If you’ve wondered whether a platform or a person is the smarter move for your stage, this episode gives you a clear, no-BS way to decide—without pressure, panic, or FOMO. 🎧 Hit play now and find your best-fit bookkeeping support—so your numbers actually help you run the business. Resources & Links Website: https://firestormfinance.com/ Podcast Home: https://firestormfinance.com/podcast/ Book a Discovery Call (primary CTA): https://firestormfinance.com/contact Listen & Subscribe (secondary CTA): Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-minds-smart-money-finance-business-tips-for/id1751025388 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2m2SRDIAEjeWSXOgKS4Ff4 Social Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance Threads: https://www.threads.com/@firestormfinance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firestormfinance YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FirestormFinance Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/

Sales tax is confusing—no way around it. Every state has different rules, the jargon feels overwhelming, and half the time you’re left wondering if you’re even supposed to charge it. But here’s the thing: even service providers sometimes owe sales tax. And not knowing the rules can leave you stressed, noncompliant, or accidentally footing the bill yourself. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, I break down sales tax in plain English—what it is, when you need to collect it, and how to keep things simple with the right systems and tools. In this episode, we cover: ✅ What sales tax actually is and who it applies to ✅ The difference between state, county, and local rules ✅ Real-world examples for service providers, photographers, designers, product sellers, and course creators ✅ What “nexus” means and why it determines whether you owe sales tax ✅ The steps to register, collect, and stay compliant (without overcomplicating your books) ✅ Common mistakes to avoid—like collecting before registering or accidentally spending tax money ✅ Tools that can make sales tax compliance easier (TaxJar, Avalara, Shopify, HoneyBook, etc.) If sales tax has ever made your head spin, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to set it up once—and move forward without the stress. 🎧 Hit play now and make sales tax one less thing to overthink. 🔗 Resources & Links 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://www.firestormfinance.com/newsletter 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode helped untangle sales tax for you, share it with a friend and leave a review—it helps more creatives make confident money moves.

Everyone online makes becoming an S-Corp sound like the ultimate financial glow-up: lower taxes, more legitimacy, instant upgrade. But here’s the truth—jumping in too early can actually hurt your business more than it helps. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, I break down the real dangers of switching to an S-Corp before you’re ready. From payroll requirements to higher admin costs to IRS scrutiny, we’ll cover what you need in place before making the leap, and a checklist to know when the timing is actually right. In this episode, we cover: ✅ What an S-Corp really is (and what it’s not) ✅ Why becoming your own payroll provider can be overwhelming if you’re not ready ✅ The hidden costs: payroll software, CPA fees, tax filings, compliance ✅ Why “reasonable salary” is a legal gray zone and how it can trigger IRS red flags ✅ Why tax savings aren’t always worth the stress (especially under $60K net profit) ✅ A clear checklist to know when you’re actually ready to elect S-Corp ✅ What to do instead if it’s too early (and how to prep your business for the switch later) If you’ve ever wondered whether becoming an S-Corp is right for you, this episode gives you the clarity to make that decision without pressure, panic, or FOMO. 🎧 Hit play now and find out whether an S-Corp is your next smart move—or just an expensive distraction. 🔗 Resources & Links 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://www.firestormfinance.com/newsletter 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode gave you clarity about S-Corps, share it with a friend and leave a review—it helps more creatives make confident money moves.

Ever wondered if your business is actually doing okay—or if you’re falling behind? That’s where benchmarking comes in. Don’t worry, it’s not a fancy finance term you need to memorize—it’s simply comparing your numbers to industry standards so you know what’s normal, where you’re strong, and what could use some tweaking. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, I’ll walk you through how to give your numbers context without spiraling into comparison. Instead of copying someone’s “six-figure month” on social media, you’ll learn how to use real benchmarks to figure out if your pricing, expenses, and profits are in a healthy range—and what to do if they’re not. In this episode, we cover: ✅ What benchmarking really means (and why it’s not about copying internet strangers) ✅ The financial numbers worth comparing—profit margin, owner’s pay, client retention, and more ✅ Real-world benchmarks for designers, photographers, product sellers, course creators, and social media managers ✅ What to do if your niche is unique (or you’re new) and don’t have an industry benchmark yet ✅ How to use benchmarks to raise prices, trim costs, reshape offers, and make better decisions—without shame or panic 🎧 Hit play now and learn how to see whether your numbers are “normal”—and how to use that knowledge to grow with confidence. 🔗 Resources & Links 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://www.firestormfinance.com/newsletter 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode helped you feel clearer about your numbers, share it with a friend and leave a review—it helps more creatives build confident, profitable businesses.

KPIs get tossed around a lot—but most creatives aren’t told which ones actually matter or how to use them. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, we break down KPIs in plain English and turn them into decision-making shortcuts. You’ll learn how to pick a small set of metrics that fit your business model, track them without drowning in spreadsheets, and use them to improve pricing, delivery, delegation, and profit. In this episode, we cover: ✅ What a KPI really is and why it must be tied to a goal and an action ✅ Core KPIs every business should know: net profit margin, owner’s pay %, average client value, offer profitability, operating expense % ✅ Creative-industry KPIs to consider (designers, photographers, social managers, course creators, influencers) ✅ How to choose your 3–5 KPIs using simple prompts you can revisit monthly ✅ The danger of vanity metrics (likes, follower counts, top-line revenue, “busy = successful”) and what to track instead ✅ How to make KPIs visible and useful with a lightweight monthly cadence If you’ve ever wondered whether your effort is actually moving the needle, these KPIs will give you clarity and control without turning you into a spreadsheet queen. 🎧 Hit play now and set up KPIs that fit your business, your brain, and your goals. 🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode helped you focus on what really matters, share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives make confident money moves.

Bringing in steady revenue but still wondering where all your money is going? That’s where profitability analysis comes in. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, I break down what profitability analysis is, why it matters, and how it helps you stop guessing and start making smarter, more profitable decisions. We’re not just talking about whether your business as a whole is profitable—we’re diving into whether your offers, clients, and projects are actually generating profit. From spotting underpriced packages to uncovering sneaky expenses eating into your margins, this conversation will show you how to finally understand what’s working in your business (and what isn’t). In this episode, we cover: ✅ What profitability analysis really means (beyond net income) ✅ How to calculate profit per offer, per client, per project, and per month ✅ Why underpricing and scope creep kill your margins—and how to stop it ✅ The three-part profitability formula: revenue, direct costs, and hours ✅ Common pitfalls like bloated software, over-delivering, and not tracking time ✅ When to run a profitability check (monthly, quarterly, and after big changes) ✅ How to use profitability data to price smarter, scale the right offers, and pay yourself well If you’ve ever felt like your bank account is a revolving door despite consistent revenue, this episode will give you clarity on where the leaks are and how to plug them. 🎧 Hit play now and learn how profitability analysis turns messy money questions into confident, strategic decisions. 🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode helped you rethink your pricing, services, or offers—share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives run profitable businesses with confidence.

Cash vs accrual accounting might sound like the most boring finance term in the world—but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make for your business. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, I break down the difference between cash basis and accrual basis accounting using plain language and real-world examples. From why your P&L sometimes says you lost money even after a big sale, to how unpaid invoices or prepaid retainers can distort your numbers, this episode will finally clear up the confusion. Whether you’re a service provider working with deposits, a product-based business with inventory, or just someone who wants to actually trust their reports, this conversation will help you decide what’s right for your stage of business. In this episode, we cover: ✅ What cash basis really means (and why it’s simpler for early-stage businesses) ✅ What accrual basis really means (and why it gives you a clearer performance picture) ✅ The pros and cons of each method ✅ How your choice impacts taxes, forecasting, and decision-making ✅ When you might be required to use accrual, especially if you sell products or carry inventory ✅ My recommendations as a CFO for when to use cash, when to switch to accrual, and why one isn’t “better” than the other—it’s about what you need from your numbers If you’ve ever wondered “Why do my reports look wrong?” or “Am I using the right accounting method?”—this episode will finally give you clarity. 🎧 Hit play now and learn how to choose the method that fits your business, your goals, and your stage of growth. 🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode helped you understand your numbers better, share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives make confident money moves.

Think Airtable is just another tool to organize your tasks? Think again. In this episode, we’re diving into how Airtable can become the blueprint for your entire business helping you plug profit leaks, make smarter pricing decisions, and create systems that give you real freedom. Elisabeth Jackson, operations specialist and founder of her own process improvement agency, shares how she uses Airtable to build client health trackers, quote calculators, no-login client portals, and more. If you’ve ever felt like your data is scattered and your systems are holding you back, this conversation will show you a better way. In this episode, we cover: ✅ Why Airtable is “Google Sheets on steroids” and how relational data works in plain English ✅ The profit leaks that cost agencies time and money—and how to spot them ✅ Real-world use cases: sales tracking, proposal pricing, capacity planning, client support hubs ✅ How to combine Airtable with tools like Asana or ClickUp without creating tech chaos ✅ Where to start if you’re intimidated by the tech and when it’s time to bring in a systems expert If you’ve ever caught yourself saying “I know the data is somewhere, but I can’t find it” this episode will help you finally feel in control of your business backend. 🎧 Hit play now and see how Airtable can turn scattered information into clear decisions. 🔗 Resources & Links Elisabeth Jackson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisabethjackson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzijackson/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@elisabethjackson Website: http://theafrocoach.com Samantha Eck | Firestorm Finance 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here! 📢 If this episode gave you clarity on how to streamline your systems, share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives build businesses that run smoothly.

Making payroll mistakes can cost you more than money! It can cost you your peace of mind. If you’ve hired employees and are now staring at a list of payroll apps wondering which one is best, this episode will break it down in simple terms. In this episode of Creative Minds, Smart Money, we explore the most popular payroll tools, the legal requirements for paying employees, and how to choose the right system without the overwhelm. Questions answered in this episode: Do you really need a payroll app to pay employees, or can you just use Venmo? What are the basic legal requirements for running payroll? Which payroll apps work best for small businesses and creative entrepreneurs? What are the pros and cons of Gusto, QuickBooks, Paychex, and Square Payroll? How can you avoid the most common payroll mistakes that trip up business owners? Listen to this episode so you can pay your team the right way, stay compliant, and focus on growing your business with confidence. 🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here!   📢 If this episode helped you feel a little more grounded in your growth—share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives make confident money moves.

In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, host Samantha Eck breaks down one of the biggest hiring questions creative business owners face: should you bring on an employee or a contractor? Choosing the wrong classification can be a costly mistake legally, financially, and emotionally. Samantha explains the differences between employees and contractors in plain language and shares real-world examples to help you avoid IRS red flags while building the type of support system that works best for your business model. If you’ve been debating whether it’s time to grow your team—or you’re worried about hiring the wrong way, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need. Questions answered in this episode: What’s the real difference between an employee and a contractor? How does the IRS decide if someone is classified correctly? What are the pros and cons of hiring a contractor? What are the pros and cons of hiring an employee? What risks do you face if you misclassify a role? What questions should you ask yourself before making a hiring decision? How can contracts and paperwork protect you when hiring 🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here!   📢 If this episode helped you feel a little more grounded in your growth—share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives make confident money moves.

Think cash flow forecasting is just a fancy spreadsheet exercise? Think again.   In this episode, we’re digging into why cash flow forecasting is one of the most powerful leadership tools in your creative business—and how it gives you permission to plan, not panic.   From knowing when you can afford to hire or invest to making sure you don’t underpay yourself “just in case,” forecasting helps you grow with confidence (and sleep better at night).   Whether you’ve got monthly retainers or variable income, this episode breaks down how to use your numbers to make proactive, strategic decisions instead of reacting to your bank balance.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ What cash flow forecasting actually is (and how it’s different from a budget) ✅ Why forecasting is essential for growth—not just survival ✅ What goes into a good forecast: from starting cash to buffers ✅ How forecasting helps you hire, invest, and pay yourself without the guesswork ✅ When it’s time to bring in a fractional CFO for deeper support   If you’ve ever found yourself saying “Can I actually afford this?”—this episode will help you answer that with clarity.   🎧 Hit play now and see how forecasting gives you more than just numbers—it gives you peace of mind and a path forward.   🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic on the show? Submit your suggestion here!   📢 If this episode helped you feel a little more grounded in your growth—share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives make confident money moves.

Think collaboration is all about follower swaps and forced partnerships? Think again.   In this episode, I’m joined by the powerhouse duo Mandy and Jamie from Coffee with M and J—and we’re diving into the real, messy, magical side of collaboration, community-building, and saying “yes” to aligned action (even when it’s scary as hell).   From launching their podcast with zero experience to building a working relationship that’s rooted in values and deep respect, they’re sharing the mindset shifts, mistakes, and wins that have shaped their journey.   If you’ve ever second-guessed a partnership, felt awkward at a networking event, or wondered how to grow your business without losing yourself in the process—this one’s for you.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ What “messy action” really looks like (and why it matters) ✅ How to build community in business without sacrificing your authenticity ✅ The power of honest collaboration and communication ✅ Red flags to watch for before saying yes to partnerships ✅ Why staying true to your energy and values is the ultimate growth strategy   If you’re craving community that actually feels good—or thinking about launching your own thing—hit play and soak this one up. These two are the real deal.   🎧 Listen now and get inspired to lead, connect, and take bold, beautiful action.   🔗 Resources & Links Follow Mandy & Jamie: Instagram (Podcast): https://www.instagram.com/coffeewithmandj Mandy’s Business: https://www.instagram.com/mj.designsandmarketing Jamie’s Coaching: https://www.instagram.com/newsoulrising Podcast: https://coffeewithmandj.buzzsprout.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUmZqm2mz7Q Threads: https://www.threads.net/@coffeewithmandj   Stay Connected with Me: 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   📝 Want to suggest a topic or guest? Submit your idea here: https://airtable.com/appU5QUM7W3mu0EmM/shrQEcFbt0KspEQiC   📢 If this episode made you laugh, cry, or finally feel seen—send it to a friend and drop a review. Let’s help more creative minds build real community and financial clarity.

Think CFOs are only for 7-figure businesses and boardrooms full of suits? Think again.   In this episode, we’re unpacking what fractional CFO strategy actually looks like for creative business owners—and why this level of support isn’t just for the “big dogs.”   From forecasting and pricing to planning for slow seasons, we’re talking about how to make strategic, data-backed decisions before your business outgrows your systems. Because clarity isn’t a luxury—it’s how you lead.   Whether you’re still DIY-ing your finances or thinking about getting more strategic, this episode shows how CFO tools can help you scale smarter, not harder.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ What a fractional CFO actually does (and how it’s different from a bookkeeper) ✅ Why CFO strategy matters before you hit big revenue milestones ✅ How cashflow forecasting, profitability audits, and pricing support help you grow ✅ What this support can look like for solopreneurs or small teams ✅ The real difference it makes to feel financially clear, confident, and in control   If you’ve ever wished someone could help you understand your numbers—not just tally them—this episode will show you what’s possible.   🎧 Hit play now and see why CFO-level thinking is the next step in running your business like the leader you are.   🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic or guest on the show? Submit your suggestion here!   📢 If this episode helped you breathe easier about your business finances—share it with a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives grow with clarity.

Think reconciling your books is just a boring monthly to-do? Think again.   In this episode, we’re diving deep into why reconciliation matters so much more than you think and how skipping this step can quietly sabotage your strategy, reporting, and confidence.   If you’ve ever looked at your bank balance and QuickBooks total and thought, “Uh…those don’t match,” this one’s for you. I’m sharing how reconciliation works, when to do it, and the costly mistakes it helps you avoid.   Whether you’re DIY-ing your books or outsourcing to a pro, this episode is a must-listen for every creative CEO who wants clean data, confident decisions, and full financial clarity.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ What reconciliation actually means and why it matters ✅ Common errors that mess up your reports (and how to catch them) ✅ Why unreconciled books lead to tax and decision-making drama ✅ How to reconcile your books step-by-step each month ✅ When it’s time to stop DIY-ing and bring in support   If your financial data is messy or you’re second-guessing the numbers, this episode will help you get back on solid ground and lead with clarity.   🎧 Hit play now and learn how to keep your books squeaky clean, accurate, and decision-ready month after month.   🔗 Resources & Links 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 📝 Want to see a specific topic or guest on the show? Submit your suggestion here!   📢 If this episode gave you a little “Oof, I needed that” moment send it to a friend, leave a review, and help more creatives build clean, confident, strategy-ready finances.

What if growing your business didn’t mean working around the clock or burning yourself out?   In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, I’m joined by the incredible Kelly from Walk Like Warriors, who shares how she grew a $110K business in under a year with less than 1,000 followers all while honoring her time, her brain, and her values.   If you’ve ever felt like your business was running you instead of the other way around, this episode is the reset you need.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ Kelly’s story: from corporate burnout to six-figure coaching ✅How ADHD-friendly systems helped her reclaim her time ✅The biggest lie about success and long hours ✅Why “working more” ≠ making more ✅Her daily and weekly structure that saves 8+ hours per week ✅What to do when your business starts feeling heavy ✅How to delegate with confidence (and without guilt) ✅What it really means to show up online and sell authentically ✅Why your values not the algorithm should shape your business   This isn’t your typical “build your biz” convo. This is real talk, real strategy, and real permission to build in a way that actually feels good.   🎧 Hit play now   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 Kelly: Website: https://walklikewarriors.com/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/Walk_Like_Warriors Threads: https://www.threads.net/@walk_like_warriors Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Walk_Like_Warriors   📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances.   Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here.

Avoiding your books happens.   In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, we’re talking all about financial avoidance what causes it, how it shows up, and most importantly, how to gently find your way back to clarity.   Just grounded support and small, doable steps to help you feel more connected to your numbers because that’s where your confidence grows.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ Why financial avoidance is emotional (not a moral failure) ✅ The difference between a break and a spiral with your books ✅ Real-life triggers that keep you stuck in avoidance mode ✅ How to gently come back to your numbers without shame ✅ Tools for re-engagement when your books feel like a mess ✅ How support can shift your mindset (and your outcomes)   If you’ve ever delayed decisions, dodged your accounting software, or felt like you’re failing because you don’t “get” your numbers this is the episode for you.   Let’s normalize the fear and give you tools to move through it with intention. Because your business doesn’t need perfection it needs you, grounded and reconnected.   🎧 Press play and take the next step. Even if it’s just opening QuickBooks and breathing.   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   📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances.   Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here.

You hit six figures… but now what?   In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, we’re talking about what really happens after you cross the six-figure mark and why making money is just the beginning. You’ll learn how to shift from reactive, DIY mode to strategic CEO mode so you can lead your business with clarity, not chaos.   This episode walks you through what happens after six figures and how to create a business that actually feels profitable, sustainable, and aligned with the way you want to live and lead.   In this episode, we cover: ✅ Why six-figure businesses still feel unstable behind the scenes ✅ The “success hangover” and how to name what you’re feeling ✅ How to tell if you’re ready to hire (or raise your prices) ✅ Why you're making more but feeling cash-poor ✅ The 4 key seasons of post-6-figure growth: Stabilize, Sustain, Scale, Strategize ✅ CFO-level moves that help you make decisions with confidence ✅ How to shift from panic-mode decisions to intentional growth   Whether you’re newly six figures or multiple years in, this episode is packed with strategy, encouragement, and grounded financial wisdom. You’re not doing anything wrong you’re just playing a new game with new rules. Let’s get you the clarity and tools to win it.   🎧 Press play and step into your CEO era with confidence.   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   📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances.   Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here.