I can’t believe it’s already December. If you’re anything like me, the end of the year isn’t just about winding down — it’s about clearing the decks and setting the stage for a business that feels even better in 2026. In this episode, I’m walking you through my full year-end review process. This isn’t just about finances (although we’re absolutely digging into those too). I’m talking about the client dynamics that need to shift, the offers that no longer light you up, and the habits or expenses quietly draining your energy and profit. I’ll share how I review every area of my business — from speaking gigs and podcast guest spots to launches and new services — and the exact questions I ask to decide what stays, what goes, and what gets reimagined for the year ahead. You’ll also hear how I check in on alignment, not just analytics, and why emotional energy matters just as much as income when I’m planning my next moves. Whether you’re a notebook-and-hot-chocolate kind of CEO or someone who wants a clear, no-fluff way to make next year feel better from day one, this episode is your permission slip to get honest and intentional before January hits. 💼 SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Xero Accounting Software — the simplified solution for managing your business finances. Xero makes it easy to track expenses, spot profit drains, and prepare for tax season without the headache. Perfect for busy entrepreneurs who want financial clarity without complexity. 👉 Check out their special offer at https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/Episode17 📲 CONNECT WITH CLAIRE Ready to simplify your path to six figures? Let’s connect: Instagram: @theclairebartlett ✨ Did this episode spark a lightbulb moment? Share your biggest discovery from your year-end review and tag me — I’d love to hear what you’re clearing from your business. 💌 Join the Email List: Be the first to hear my strategies for building a spacious, profitable business https://www.claire-bartlett.co.uk/emailoptin-918730 ⭐️ SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If this episode helped you see your business review in a new light, please subscribe to The Simplified CEO on your favorite podcast platform. 💬 Leave a review sharing what resonated most — it helps more ambitious women find the show and build businesses that enhance their lives instead of consuming them. New episodes drop every Wednesday. 💭 FINAL THOUGHTS You’ve built something incredible this year. Now it’s time to honor that work by reviewing it honestly, clearing what no longer serves you, and building a strategy that genuinely excites you. Don’t carry energy drains into 2026 — clear the decks now so you can start the new year light, aligned, and ready to scale. Remember: Business doesn’t have to be complicated. Simplicity is the greatest form of genius.

You're ticking off your to-do list, working harder than ever, but something feels... off. You're going to bed exhausted, not energised. You're losing that spark that made you start your business in the first place. Sound familiar? In this short but powerful episode, I'm sharing the exact tool I use to make sure I stay absolutely in love with my business – the Energy Matrix. This simple framework helps you identify which tasks are lighting you up and which ones are slowly draining your passion (and your profits). If you've ever found yourself cleaning toilets or organising drawers just to avoid certain business tasks, this episode is for you. Let's get you back to spending your days doing what actually fills your cup. What You'll Learn The three energy categories every business task falls into (and why this matters more than your to-do list) How to identify your "sweet spot" tasks that make you money AND bring you joy Why you might be spending 80% of your time in the wrong energy zone The quick exercise that'll show you exactly which task to eliminate this week Real solutions for those necessary-but-painful tasks (like bookkeeping) that drain your battery How to stop procrastinating on the tasks that actually grow your business The dangerous time trap that feels good but isn't moving you forward Resources Mentioned Xero Accounting Software – Make bookkeeping painless with automation https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/Episode16 One Action to Take This Week Identify the ONE task that's consuming the most of your time for the least amount of income. Ask yourself: What would happen if I stopped doing it entirely? You have permission to eliminate, delegate, or systematise any task that's draining your energy without moving your business forward. Connect with Claire This episode resonated with you? I'd love to hear which task you've identified as your biggest energy drain and what you're going to do about it! 📱 Instagram: @theclairebartlett – DM me your biggest takeaway 💌 Email List: Join for weekly strategies on building your 6-figure business in 20 hours a week https://www.claire-bartlett.co.uk/emailoptin-918730 About The Simplified CEO Podcast The Simplified CEO is for ambitious female entrepreneurs who've built successful 5-figure businesses but want to scale to 6 figures without sacrificing what matters most. If you're tired of the hustle culture and ready to build a business that enhances your life rather than consuming it, you're in exactly the right place. New episodes drop every Wednesday – Subscribe so you never miss a strategy that could transform your week. Sponsor This episode is proudly sponsored by Xero Accounting Software. If bookkeeping is draining your battery (and let's be honest, it probably is), Xero's automation features make the process so much easier. There's so much built-in automation that you just get the information in there and it does the majority of the work for you. Check out the special offer link here: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/Episode16

Discover 5 game-changing strategies to build your 6-figure business during school hours without burnout. Perfect for mum entrepreneurs seeking work-life balance. Are you exhausted before you even open your laptop? Feeling like you're constantly busy but never actually moving your business forward? You're not alone. In this episode of The Simplified CEO, I'm sharing my exact 5-step framework for running a successful 6-figure business entirely during school hours - without sacrificing your sanity or your time with your children. After years of being trapped in the hustle culture hamster wheel, working 60-80 hours a week while trying to be a present mum, I discovered a better way. Now I work just 20 hours a week, three days between school drop-off and pick-up, and I've never been more profitable or peaceful. What You'll Learn: How to uncover the hidden time drains stealing hours from your day (most entrepreneurs have NO idea where 30-40% of their time actually goes) The "3 Types of Work" framework that instantly shows you what's making money and what's just making you feel busy My exact daily non-negotiables that take 15 minutes but create massive momentum How to identify and focus on your "breakthrough work" that generates the highest income in the shortest time Why the 1:1 time-for-money model is keeping you trapped and how to break free Perfect for you if: You're a mum running a service-based business (coaching, consulting, VA services) You've built a 5-figure business but want to scale to 6 figures You're working way more hours than you'd like to admit You feel guilty for wanting both business success AND quality time with your family You're done with hustle culture but don't know another way Key Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction: The entrepreneur's constant mental to-do list [02:45] Step 1: Track your time with brutal honesty [08:30] Step 2: The 3 types of work framework (Busy, Builder, Breakthrough) [15:20] Step 3: Define your daily non-negotiables [19:45] Step 4: Focus on money-making activities [24:10] Step 5: Stop trading time for money 1:1 [28:30] Recap and action steps About This Episode's Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the tool that saves me 4-5 hours every week on financial management and forecasting. Running your business during limited hours means every minute counts, and Xero's automation features let you track finances, create forecasts, and plan for growth with just a few clicks. Check out the special offer HERE. Connect with Claire: Instagram: @theclairebartlett Join the mailing list for more tips and insights into the daily life of an entrepreneurial mum! You can sign up HERE

Feeling torn between building your business and being present for your family? You're not alone. In this episode, Claire Bartlett dismantles the myth of work-life balance and reveals why trying to separate your role as a mum from your role as an entrepreneur is actually creating more guilt, not less. Discover the intentional integration method that allowed Claire to build two 6-figure businesses whilst being fully present for school runs, swimming lessons, and family time - without the constant mental tug-of-war that exhausts so many working mums. If you've ever felt guilty for thinking about work whilst helping with homework, or stressed about missing family time because of a client deadline, this episode will completely shift your perspective on what it means to be both a successful entrepreneur and a present parent. Resources Mentioned Join the email list: Get weekly strategies for building a 6-figure business in 20 hours a week without the guilt - sign up HERE Connect on Instagram: @theclairebartlett for daily insights on intentional integration and simplified success About Today's Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps busy entrepreneurs manage their finances without the stress. With automated bank feeds, invoice creation, and real-time financial reporting, Xero gives you complete visibility of your business finances in minutes, not hours. Perfect for service-based business owners who want to spend less time on bookkeeping and more time with their families. Click here for an exclusive offer for Simplified CEO listeners. About The Simplified CEO Podcast The Simplified CEO is your weekly dose of practical strategies for building a 6-figure business in 20 hours a week. Hosted by Claire Bartlett, a business mentor who successfully scaled two businesses whilst working part-time and being a present mum, this podcast challenges hustle culture and proves that sustainable success is possible. If you're a female entrepreneur tired of choosing between business growth and life balance, this is your permission to have both. New episodes every Wednesday. Connect With Claire Instagram: @theclairebartlett Join the Email List: Get weekly strategies for spacious success Work With Claire: Discover how to build your 6-figure business in 20 hours a week Share This Episode Know another working mum who's drowning in mum guilt? Share this episode and help her discover that she can be both a successful entrepreneur AND a present parent - without the constant mental tug-of-war. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Simplified CEO!

I used to be that business owner - drowning in to-dos, spending hours on stuff that didn’t move the needle, and constantly tempted to hire help I couldn’t afford. Then I found a better way. In this episode, I’m sharing the exact five apps that slashed my working hours in half - without hiring a single team member. These aren’t random recommendations. Each tool genuinely transformed how I run my business as a CEO, from social media scheduling to client calls to accounting. You’ll hear how I: Went from daily content chaos to scheduling a week’s worth of posts in 30 mins Quit the back-and-forth of booking meetings and started converting warm leads faster Built a visual project dashboard so I stopped micromanaging my team and deadlines Used AI to crush blank-page paralysis and actually enjoy content creation again Made peace with my finances using one accounting tool that does everything This is for you if you're running the show solo, scaling with zero spare time, or just desperate for some breathing room. These are the tools that let me create space, scale intentionally, and still keep full creative control. If you're ready to simplify and save serious time, hit play - then DM me on Instagram @theclairebartlett and let me know which app you’re trying first.   FREE Download: 3-Day CEO Audit Get my step-by-step framework to identify your £10, £100, and £1,000 tasks and reclaim your time. This is the exact process I used to cut my hours by two-thirds whilst maintaining six-figure turnover. 👉 Download the free 3‑Day CEO Audit HERE to start mapping where you’re leaking time and how to reclaim it. You’re the most valuable asset in your business. Treat your time accordingly, step into your CEO mindset, and let’s reclaim your life and business together. Connect With Me I'd love to hear about your biggest time-wasting task! Come and share it with me on Instagram - let's start the conversation about working smarter, not harder. ✉️ Join my email list for weekly strategies on building your six-figure business in 20 hours a week HERE *This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE

PR can feel like this intimidating, insider-only world - like you need a degree, a giant following, or a publicist just to get noticed. But today’s guest is here to bust that myth wide open. Jenna Farmer is a PR expert and ex-journalist who built her own path into the media - starting with a personal blog and ending up in top publications like Forbes. In this episode, she shares how she turned her story into press-worthy content and now helps other small business owners do the same (even those with less than 200 followers). We dive into: What press and PR actually is (hint: it’s not just magazines and TV) The biggest misconceptions that stop business owners from pitching How to pitch like a human, not a headline machine The red flags to watch out for with shady “PR” offers How to use your press coverage after it goes live to build trust and sales We also unpack the emotional side of stepping into visibility, the fears of being misquoted, why many of us still carry limiting beliefs from the 9–5 world, and how PR can be a tool for advocacy, not just attention. Whether you’re product-based, service-based, brand new, or deep in your journey, if you’ve ever wondered how people “get featured,” this one will shift your whole perspective. Connect With Jenna Grab your free copy of '5 Business Publications Looking For Contributors' HERE Listen to Jenna's podcast HERE Connect with Jenna on Instagram HERE Connect With Me I'd love to hear about your biggest time-wasting task! Come and share it with me on Instagram - let's start the conversation about working smarter, not harder. ✉️ Join my email list for weekly strategies on building your six-figure business in 20 hours a week HERE *This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE

In this powerful episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on the exact mindset shift that transformed my business from a gilded cage into the spacious success I'd always dreamed of. If you're working 60+ hour weeks but telling yourself you're "part-time," this episode is your wake-up call. A few years ago I believed I was working “part‑time” in my business - four days a week, nine to three. But when I really tracked my time I realised I was actually working 60‑80 hours a week - evenings, weekends, on my phone, in my head. The moment I snapped at my daughter to say “I’m busy” made me wake up: I’d built a business for freedom and I’d lost it. In this episode I’ll walk you through: How I tracked every minute of my time (including sofa, mobile, wine‑in‑hand “just checking one thing”) The framework I use: 10‑pound tasks vs 100‑pound vs 1000‑pound tasks How I outsourced, automated and built systems so I freed myself AND still grew profit The mindset of switching from consultant to CEO: valuing your time, setting boundaries, protecting your diary My slow, six‑month rollout so the change stuck and didn’t back‑fire If you’re working too many hours, feeling like the business owns you, or you’ve lost sight of the “why” behind your business - this episode is for you. FREE Download: 3-Day CEO Audit Get my step-by-step framework to identify your £10, £100, and £1,000 tasks and reclaim your time. This is the exact process I used to cut my hours by two-thirds whilst maintaining six-figure turnover. 👉 Download the free 3‑Day CEO Audit HERE to start mapping where you’re leaking time and how to reclaim it. You’re the most valuable asset in your business. Treat your time accordingly, step into your CEO mindset, and let’s reclaim your life and business together. Connect With Me I'd love to hear about your biggest time-wasting task! Come and share it with me on Instagram - let's start the conversation about working smarter, not harder. 📱 Instagram: @theclairebartlett ✉️ Join my email list for weekly strategies on building your six-figure business in 20 hours a week HERE *This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE

I used to think happiness in business was a given. I had all the checkboxes ticked: money, recognition, a thriving brand. But I was deeply unhappy. In this episode, I’m opening up about the moment I realised success on paper didn’t mean joy in real life - and what I did to change everything. We’re unpacking the myths around what it really means to be happy as an entrepreneur, how hustle culture and perfectionism steal your joy, and the key mindset shift that changed my entire business (and home life). I’m also sharing the silent “joy suckers” like comparison, should-ing all over yourself, and boundaries that don’t actually exist. You’ll learn: What sustainable happiness in business actually looks like How to integrate your work and life without sacrificing either The sneaky ways social media steals your energy (and how to take it back) Why perfection is procrastination in disguise My favourite practice for finding joy on even the hardest business days If you’ve ever wondered “is it possible to love my business again?” - this episode is your reset button.   *This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE

Welcome back to The Simplified CEO - today’s episode hits hard and honest. If you’ve ever felt like you’re dropping balls in business and your relationship, this one will shift how you see both. I’m joined by high-performance coaches and entrepreneurs Katie and Danny Bloomfield, who built their relationship, family, and business intentionally after learning the hard way what didn’t work. Inside This Episode: Why success in business doesn’t mean sacrifice at home How to create a “no-blame culture” with your partner or team The five-pillar framework they use to build a truly wealthy life How to stay on track even when one of you is burnt out or breaking down What really happens behind the scenes of a blended family with 6 kids and multiple businesses Their go-to strategies for staying aligned when life gets loud We also unpack the systems, rituals, and mindset shifts that simplify the chaos - from dinner table check-ins to high-five rituals. If you’ve been wondering, “Can I really build both a thriving business and marriage?” - the answer is yes. And it starts here. I'd love to hear what resonated with you! – DM me on Instagram @theclairebartlett or email me at hello@claire-bartlett.co.uk *This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE Connect with Claire on Instagram HERE Resources FREE Wealthy Life Playbook by Katie & Danny - https://bloomfields.life/your-wealthy-life-playbook Connect with the Bloomfields:  https://www.facebook.com/katie.bloomfield86 https://www.facebook.com/danny.bloomers10 Subscribe now - and share this with the CEO in your life who's quietly struggling behind the scenes.

What a Simplified CEO Mindset Actually Means (and How to Build It) This week I’m walking you through the Simplified CEO mindset - what it is, how it helped me claw back time without sacrificing profit, and the small but powerful mindset shifts you can make today to do the same. I break down the real difference between a business owner who’s constantly reacting (even if they’re successful) and a CEO who’s intentionally designing their time, energy, and income. I also share how I accidentally built a 6-figure business, ended up with 7 staff members, and realised I was stuck in a job I created for myself - working more hours than I ever intended. Here’s what I cover: The mindset shift that took me from “hustling founder” to “intentional CEO” Why I ditched hustle culture for strategic simplicity (without losing revenue) My exact reset framework to reduce working hours while keeping income steady How to stop doing £10 tasks and focus on £1,000 tasks A better way to think about work-life balance (I call it intentional integration) Why being “busy” isn’t the same as being profitable The productivity trap that’s keeping most entrepreneurs overwhelmed How to evaluate every task and product in your business for ROI and alignment The real definition of wealth (and why it’s not just about money) Why clarity eliminates decision fatigue This isn’t about passive income or chasing millions. It’s about building a business that serves your life - not the other way around. If you’re building a business for more freedom, flexibility, and presence (but feel like you’ve accidentally created a guilded cage), this episode is your wake-up call. I'd love to hear what you’re simplifying first – DM me on Instagram @theclairebartlett or email me at hello@claire-bartlett.co.uk This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE Connect with Claire on Instagram HERE

If I had to start my business all over again today, what would I do differently? The truth is - I’ve lived it. After running my first business for over a decade, I relaunched at the start of this year with a brand-new coaching business. And what I did this time around looked completely different from how I started the first time. In this episode of The Simplified CEO, I break down the 5 key areas that matter most when starting and growing a business - and how I approached each one differently this time around. From setting a crystal-clear vision to stepping fully into the CEO mindset, I share the lessons I wish I knew sooner and the practical steps you can put in place right now. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why having a clear vision and mission changes everything from day one The mindset shifts that turn you from “self-employed” into CEO mode How to position your brand and marketing so it speaks to what people want (not just what they need) Why networking is still gold in 2025, and how to use it to sharpen your message The simple financial habits that keep your business sustainable and scalable If you’re just starting out or considering a relaunch, this episode will help you shortcut the mistakes, avoid the overwhelm, and focus your energy where it matters most. Links mentioned in this episode: Free cashflow template DOWNLOAD HERE This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners HERE Connect with Claire on Instagram HERE

From Accidental Entrepreneur to Aligned CEO: How Dani Devren Simplified Her Empire This week on The Simplified CEO, I’m joined by the inspiring Dani Devren, whose story of going from a self-confessed "busy fool" juggling five businesses to an aligned and intentional CEO is a must-listen for any multi-passionate woman in business. Dani shares how she fell into entrepreneurship almost by accident, starting a wooden toy brand on maternity leave, growing an impressive Instagram following of 36K, and eventually launching multiple creative businesses. But like so many of us, she hit a point where the hustle didn’t feel good anymore. What followed was a complete mindset shift. We talk about the moment Dani knew she had to simplify, how she let go of the business that first gave her credibility, and what it looked like to fully back herself. She opens up about the spiritual journey that helped her understand her human design, navigate imposter syndrome, and finally give herself permission to do business her way. If you’ve ever struggled with visibility, questioned if you’re "too much," or felt pressure to niche down, this episode is for you. Dani speaks openly about being misunderstood, reframing her natural energy as a gift, and the power of creating magnetic branding that actually feels like you. We also dive deep into how she helps other entrepreneurs show up with confidence on Instagram - without it taking over their life. Her membership "Find Your InstaJoy" is all about making content feel joyful, aligned, and beautifully on-brand (and no, she’s not afraid to give a little tough love if your Canva game is letting you down). Inside this episode: The truth about being "multi-talented" and why niching down isn’t for everyone How Dani grew a product-based brand through organic marketing What it means to shift from doing "all the things" to CEO-level clarity Why your energy shows up in your content - and how to raise your frequency online Tips for making Instagram your playground, even if you hate social media Dani is passionate, real, and ridiculously generous in this chat. Whether you're pivoting, scaling, or figuring it out as you go, her story will leave you feeling seen and seriously inspired. LINKS: Connect with Dani on Instagram: @danidevren Join the "Find Your InstaJoy" membership: https://www.danidevren.co.uk/instagram-membership Connect with Claire on Instagram: @cs_bartlett Join Claire's email list to never miss another episode or update again: https://www.claire-bartlett.co.uk/podcast This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that helps you keep on top of your numbers, the simple way! Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners here: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/Episode7  

Let’s talk about the word I treated like a swear word in business for years: niche. I fought it. I eye-rolled it. I proudly told myself I didn’t need it. And for a while… I didn’t. My first business grew without a defined niche. Or so I thought. But when I launched my coaching and mentoring business, my resistance to niching held me back. Hard. I kept my messaging broad. My ideal client description was vague. And while I had the skills and the heart, my business plateaued. Painfully. In this episode of The Simplified CEO, I’m pulling back the curtain on my real journey with niching - the fear, the stubbornness, the pivotal ballroom visualization that finally cracked it all open for me. I walk you through: Why niching felt like a straitjacket (and why I was wrong) The turning point that made everything click How the “100 Ideal Clients in a Ballroom” exercise changed my entire strategy Practical steps to find your niche - even if you’re multi-passionate or terrified of choosing wrong The truth about niche-based marketing, referrals, and premium pricing Whether you’ve been avoiding the niche conversation altogether, or you’re in that frustrating in-between phase where nothing’s quite landing - this one’s for you. Hit play and let’s get honest about what it really takes to stand out, scale up, and build a business that gives you both income and lifestyle. Connect with Claire: Instagram: @cs_bartlett - Send Claire a DM and share what niche came up for you Website: claire-bartlett.co.uk Want to scale to 6 figures without the chaos? Join Claire's email list for weekly strategies that help established entrepreneurs grow smarter, not harder. No hustle culture, no overwhelm - just practical advice for building a business that enhances your life instead of consuming it. Sponsor Message: This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that gives you real-time visibility of your cash flow and profit margins. Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners here: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/episode6   New episodes every Wednesday. Subscribe to The Simplified CEO on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favourite platform for weekly strategies on building profitable businesses without the hustle.

Ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes of those massive 7-figure launches you see celebrated on Instagram? Claire pulls back the curtain on her experience as an affiliate for one of the UK's most successful course launches - and the reality might shock you. From 4am panic calls when websites crashed to affiliate drama in private Facebook groups, this episode reveals the brutal truth about what scaling to 7 figures actually looks like day-to-day. If you've been romanticising those income screenshots and wondering why you're not there yet, this honest account will give you a completely different perspective. Claire shares four game-changing lessons from being on the inside of a multi-million pound launch, and more importantly, how you can apply these insights to build a sustainable, successful business without sacrificing your sanity. Connect with Claire: Instagram: @cs_bartlett - Send Claire a DM about which lesson resonated most Website: claire-bartlett.co.uk Want to scale to 6 figures without the chaos? Join Claire's email list for weekly strategies that help established entrepreneurs grow smarter, not harder. No hustle culture, no overwhelm - just practical advice for building a business that enhances your life instead of consuming it. Sponsor Message: This episode is sponsored by Xero Accounting Software - the cloud-based accounting solution that gives you real-time visibility of your cash flow and profit margins. Xero makes it simple to track your true profitability and make CEO-level decisions with confidence. Check out the special offer for Simplified CEO listeners here: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/Episode5

If you’ve ever found yourself lying awake at 2am, replaying the same business decisions over and over, this episode is for you. Today on The Simplified CEO Podcast, I’m breaking down why overthinking is the silent killer of small business growth - and how it’s stopping you from making the leap from five to six figures. I’ve seen it time and time again with my clients (and I’ve lived it myself): Hours lost in competitor research instead of launching the thing Perfectly good offers never seeing the light of day because they weren’t “ready” Endless spreadsheets, YouTube reviews, and strategy books that lead to more confusion, not clarity Here’s the uncomfortable truth. Overthinking isn’t protecting you from failure; it’s guaranteeing it. In this episode, I’m sharing: The science of what happens in your brain when you overthink (and why it shuts down your creativity) Real stories from entrepreneurs who stayed stuck in planning mode while opportunities slipped away The exact 4-step decision-making framework I use with my clients to cut through analysis paralysis and start moving toward six figures The mindset shift that separates CEOs who scale fast from those who stay stuck at five figures This episode will help you stop spiraling in indecision and finally take confident, fast action in your business because action creates clarity, not the other way around. If you’ve been delaying that new service launch, second-guessing your pricing, or waiting for “perfect” before you move, it’s time to break the cycle. Tune in now and learn how to make decisions like a real CEO so you can scale with more speed, confidence, and ease. And if this resonates with you, share it on Instagram and tag me @cs_bartlett so I can cheer you on! Sponsor: If you are ready to simplify your bookkeeping and handle it like a CEO then check out today's sponsor Xero accounting software: Follow the link for a special listener offer https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/episode4

Are you making great money but feeling absolutely exhausted? Working more hours than you ever did in employment but somehow earning less per hour? In this episode, we're talking about the five specific things successful entrepreneurs need to give up if they want to scale to six figures whilst actually enjoying their lives. This isn't about working harder - it's about working smarter and building a business that enhances your life rather than consuming it. What You'll Learn: ✅ Why trying to be everything to everyone is keeping you broke and burnt out ✅ The real reason you're under-pricing yourself (and it's not what you think) ✅ How to stop doing £10-per-hour tasks when you charge £100+ per hour ✅ Why work-life balance is a myth (and what successful entrepreneurs do instead) ✅ The celebrity business failures that prove even mega-successful people make these mistakes ✅ How to connect your financial goals to your actual life goals for lasting motivation Key Takeaways: 🎯 Choose Your Lane and Platform: Stop trying to serve everyone everywhere. Pick your niche and master one platform before expanding. 💰 Price for Profit, Not Volume: Under-pricing leads to resentment, difficult clients, and working twice as hard for half the money. ⏰ Boundaries = Freedom: Create systems, delegate tasks, and protect your CEO-level time. 🔄 Integration Over Balance: Design a business that flexes around your life, not the other way around. ❤️ Purpose Over Profit: Connect your money goals to your life goals for sustainable motivation. This is for you if: You are a 5-figure business owner feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and well unhappy! Your an entrepreneur working 50+ hour weeks but not seeing the money in your own personal bank You are a business owner ready to scale sustainably without sacrificing your wellbeing Your feeling guilty about your work-life integration as an entrepreneur   Connect With Claire: Ready to simplify your path to six figures? Visit www.claire-bartlett.co.uk for more resources on building a profitable, sustainable business that actually makes you happy. And if your ready to simplify your bookkeeping make sure you check out Xero, the sponsor of this podcast, for their amazing offer on their simple accounting software: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/0pyhbr  

What if I told you that scaling to 6 figures had nothing to do with working harder, being on every platform, or having a 47-point marketing strategy? In this raw and honest episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on my journey from overwhelmed 5-figure entrepreneur to confident 6-figure CEO. I'm sharing the exact moment I realised I was drowning in my own success, and the four strategic shifts that changed everything. This isn't another "hustle harder" episode. This is the real story of how I doubled my revenue whilst working 20 fewer hours per week - and why focusing on less actually gave me more.   About This Episode This episode is perfect for you if you're a service-based business owner who has built a successful 5-figure business but feels like you're constantly spinning plates. If you're working evenings and weekends, checking emails during dinner, and wondering why scaling feels so hard - this is your roadmap to a simpler, more profitable way forward. I'm not sharing theory here - I'm sharing exactly what worked for me, including the mistakes I made, the timeline it actually took, and the real numbers behind my transformation from overwhelmed entrepreneur to confident CEO. LINKS: Step into your 6-figure mindset with our complete Cashflow Forecast template, designed to help entrepreneurs predict cash shortfalls, plan major purchases, and sleep better at night knowing their numbers. Includes automated formulas and step-by-step video tutorial: https://www.claire-bartlett.co.uk/cashflowforecast-188232 Simplify your accounting needs today with Xero accounting software - become a master of your finances and scale to 6-figures with ease. Follow the link now to take advantage of Xero's incredible sign-up offer: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/9fhxu    

Let’s cut to it: if your sales have suddenly flatlined, and you’ve been spiraling down the pricing rabbit hole, wondering “Should I charge more? Should I run a discount? Should I burn it all down?” then keep listening! I know exactly how that pricing panic feels. You’ve tried premium. You’ve tried cheap-as-chips. You’ve even sat in the “safe middle” hoping for a win. But no matter what price tag you slap on your offer, it’s met with agonising silence. The fact is... the problem probably isn’t your pricing. In this episode, I’m breaking down: The real reason your offers aren’t converting (spoiler: it’s not the cost) Why clients buy emotion, not packages The 3-part messaging shift that changes everything A real-world example that’ll flip how you talk about your work Quick-win action steps to attract clients who are excited to pay you It’s time to stop obsessing over what to charge and start focusing on what actually sells. Hit play and let’s fix the real problem together. This episode is a must-listen if: You’re sick of second-guessing your prices You want to stop discounting just to make sales You’re ready to attract clients who actually get the value you bring Check out our sponsor Xero's fantastic offer by following the link below: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/claire And don't forget to follow me on Instagram so we can keep the conversation going! You can find me at cs_bartlett

Welcome back to The Bold Blueprint! In this powerful final episode of the RESET series, host Claire Bartlett wraps up season three by diving deep into the final two steps of her transformative R.E.S.E.T.™ Framework: Elevate and Thrive. If you've been feeling stuck, burnt out, or just misaligned in your business, this episode is your blueprint to take your strategy and passion to the next level - without the hustle, burnout, or BS. Whether you're growing your business, rebuilding your confidence, or craving more alignment between your personal life and business goals, this episode is packed with insight, strategy, and encouragement to help you step fully into your CEO energy. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Elevate: Growing Visibility & Building Confidence Why elevating your business isn’t about overnight success, but consistent, intentional visibility. Claire’s simple, confidence-building method to step outside your comfort zone and take action (without fear paralysis). Real-world visibility tactics: from blog writing to public speaking, even if you're not "ready" yet. The truth about social media growth - and why authentic content beats going viral every time. How to define your ideal client, identify where they hang out online, and build content with purpose. ✅ Thrive: Designing a Business That Fuels Your Life The boundaries and habits Claire uses to protect her energy and prevent burnout. How to schedule your time for deep work, not just firefighting. Why understanding your energy cycles (hello, hormonal shifts!) matters when planning your work week. What it really means to step into your CEO self and future-proof your mindset and business decisions. 🎯 Key Takeaways: Confidence is built through action. Small, consistent steps are more effective than giant leaps. Your visibility strategy must be rooted in clarity: know who you're speaking to, where they are, and why you're creating content. Sell the dream, not the deliverables. Communicate transformation, not just features. Boundaries, structure, and aligned decision-making are essential for sustainable success. Thriving in business means knowing when to say no and being radically honest about what serves your long-term vision. 💡 Resources & Mentions: 🎤 Shelley Wilson's Episode – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/002-the-importance-of-networking-with-guest-shelley-wilson/id1752713529?i=1000659416868 📚 Recommended Reading: $100M Offers by Alex Hormozi  $100M Leads by Alex Hormozi  💙 Special Thanks to Our Sponsor – Xero This episode is proudly sponsored by Xero, the accounting software platform that simplifies your business finances. From seamless bookkeeping to smart financial reporting, Xero gives you the tools to run your business with confidence.👉 Explore Xero for your business here: https://xero5440.partnerlinks.io/zr73rrs 🎧 Catch Up on the RESET Series: Episode 48: Reignite – Finding Your Fire Again Episode 49: Explore – What’s Not Working and Why Episode 51: Strategise – Planning for Sustainable Growth 📲 Stay Connected: Instagram: @cs_bartlett DM Claire to share your biggest takeaway or tag her when you're implementing your RESET journey! 🔔 Don’t Miss Season Four! Subscribe to The Bold Blueprint on your favourite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. Incredible guests, deeper conversations, and bold business breakthroughs are coming your way.

In this episode of The Bold Blueprint, your host Claire Bartlett - business mentor, strategist, and no-nonsense coach dives deep into the third pillar of her R.E.S.E.T.™ Framework: Strategise. If you've ever felt like you're doing all the things but making no real progress, this is the episode for you. Claire unpacks the real meaning of strategy in business, not as a buzzword, but as a powerful and practical tool for achieving your long-term vision without burning out. From simplifying your services to redefining your business model and building a marketing approach that actually serves you, this episode is packed with insights to help you stop guessing and start growing with intention. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most business owners are operating without a real strategy, and how to change that. The difference between goals and strategy (and why you need both). Claire’s 3-step process for strategic simplification that helps you align your offers, model, and marketing with your vision. How to audit your current business activities and cut what no longer serves you - even if it’s making money. Why your strategy must match your energy, lifestyle, and goals (not someone else’s). The importance of platform-specific marketing strategies and growing your email list. How to build a roadmap for realistic, sustainable growth, without sacrificing your sanity. Key Quotes: “Strategy is the method to the madness of business. It’s not rigid, it’s a guide to keep you aligned and moving forward.”“Even if it’s making money, if it’s not aligned with your bigger goal, you’ve got to let it go.”“Just posting on social media isn’t a strategy. You need to know the why behind every action you take.” Resources & Links: 👉 Book your free clarity call with Claire to get personal support with your business strategy. 📲 Follow Claire on Instagram: @cs_bartlett 💌 Grab your free guide to eliminate Sunday dread and regain control of your time HERE. 💟 Grab your exclusive XERO discount HERE. Rate & Review: If this episode helped you see your business differently, please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review The Bold Blueprint on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us reach more bold business owners like you!