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Jackie Hermes

Let's be honest: building a company from nothing is freaking hard. It has been for me. I grew my company Accelity from 0 to 7 figures with no partners and no funding. I'm also a startup mentor, a speaker, and a dedicated mother of three. Welcome to The Art of Entrepreneurship podcast—I’m your host, Jackie Hermes. Listen in as I share all the mistakes I’ve made and, more importantly, what I’ve learned from them, with no fluff, and no rose-colored glasses. The Art of Entrepreneurship is a show where we cut through the BS and dig into what it actually takes to start and grow a business. I’ll be giving unfiltered advice 1 episode per week, up to 20 minute per episode. I want you to walk away from this podcast with the mindset and tools you need to be successful. This podcast is for entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and busy professionals with a short attention span (like me)—you’ll get quick-hitting, actionable information in every single episode. If you give me your time, I promise it won't be wasted. Now let's get to work!

Total 250 episodes

5

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Asking yourself the important questions (reprise)

Asking yourself the important questions (reprise)

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we are diving into the topic of asking yourself the important questions. Wait, haven’t we covered this before? Yup—it’s that important (and, fun fact, our most popular episode to date!). So important, I decided to reprise it as the topic of my extra special 50th episode. The beginning of the year (or month, or week or right now when you’re reading this) is the perfect time to evaluate the most important questions in your life:Am I happy?Do I like my life the way it is now, or am I on autopilot just living the life that I’ve set up?In what ways could I potentially improve my life, both at work and personally?I share my journey with learning to check in with myself about how I’m really feeling (and how I still have plenty of progress to make). At the end of this episode, I’ll also share some suggestions for ways you can incorporate this process of questioning into your daily life. Episode highlights1:02 The start of the year is the perfect time to evaluate the most important questions in your life.2:25 I share my journey of learning to check in with myself and evaluate how I’m feeling. 5:34 My challenge to everyone listening: What is just one way that you are going to start asking yourself questions. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:0017/01/2022

When words and actions don’t align

When words and actions don’t align

In this S*%! People Say episode, we’re talking about what to do when people’s actions don’t align with their words.To me, one of the hardest situations to rectify in my mind is when you’re dealing with people whose words and actions don’t align. Should you just let it go? Or do you call them out on their behavior? While it may feel like the harder option, being upfront and honest with others is always the best way to go—both for your sake and theirs. At the end of this episode, I’ll give you some insights on how I work past holding grudges (both personally and professionally) and what I’ve learned from my mistakes.Episode highlights01:16 When a person’s words and actions don’t align, it makes me wonder if the people I'm dealing with are who they say they are, or are who they think they are. 03:07 I share personal and professional examples of how I’m handling this type of misalignment. 05:49 My biggest takeaway in these situations where words and actions do not align is that you have to speak up; holding a grudge does nothing for you.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

07:2314/01/2022

Optimizing cash flow with Ryan Calton

Optimizing cash flow with Ryan Calton

This Startup Survival episode is all about the money! We’re talking about cash flow and the important things you need to know when running a business—joined by our first special guest. Cash flow, especially for bootstrapped companies, is one of the most important lifelines of a company. For this episode, I brought in an expert: Ryan Calton, a CPA and CFO (oh yeah, and also my husband). He’ll share some of his insights on cash flow for startups. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a quick guide for knowing where to start when it comes to optimizing cash flow for your business. Ryan Calton, CPA, is the founder and CEO of RC MKE, a financial consulting firm in Milwaukee. He brings his extensive finance and operations knowledge to small and mid-sized companies everywhere. His expertise includes mergers and acquisitions, new product development and go-to-market, and smart systems to support data-driven decision making. Connect with Ryan on LinkedInVisit RC MKEEpisode highlights00:48 Cash flow is critical for startups, especially bootstrapped companies like mine. 03:04 Take a look at your spending and reduce costs where possible, especially when you're in a bit of a cash crunch. 04:48 Budgets are useful as a tool. They are not a specific roadmap but I do think it's a good thing to take a look at on a monthly basis. 08:23 Cash can be managed daily, weekly, monthly; it just comes down to monitoring what you take a look at and what you measure. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsiteHit Ryan up! LinkedIn

10:0112/01/2022

When should I quit my day job?

When should I quit my day job?

In this Big Questions, Short Answers episode, we’re talking about how to know when it’s the right time to quit your day job. Sometimes our day jobs are totally exhausting, which leads us to find other ways of earning income—ones that don’t compromise our mental and physical health. When is the right time to let go of your job? Well, it’s complicated. I’m sharing the questions I asked myself before I quit my day job to focus on my business full time. Are you able to cover your expenses with your current client list? What will you do if you lose income? I’ll talk through the phased approach I created to ensure I was still able to take care of my and my family’s needs. At the end of this episode, we’ll also discuss what to do when you aren’t ready to launch your business, but you can’t stay at your current job either. We’ll weigh the questions to ask to help you determine your next move. Episode highlights01:15 Whenever possible, start building your business on the side while working a day job. 04:10 How will you cover your expenses while you build your company? What’s your backup plan?05:36 When is the right time to quit or change a full-time job? More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

07:4310/01/2022

It's always partially your fault

It's always partially your fault

In this S*%! People Say episode, we discuss taking responsibility for the things that are happening in our lives—whether we like it or not. It’s all too easy not to take responsibility when something goes wrong, especially when the situation seems minor. But no matter how small the situation may seem, it’s critical to always take ownership of how you might have played a role. Doing so shows that you are the bigger person and that you are willing to help be part of the solution. In this episode, I share two stories that helped me realize the value of taking ownership when things go wrong. By taking responsibility for our own crap, we not only stand out from others but also feel better moving forward. Episode highlights1:20 You can take ownership of any situation, even when you think it's not your fault.2:15 I share two personal stories that reinforce the theory that everything is partially your fault. 6:35 The ultimate takeaway of this episode is live above the line and own your own crap.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

07:2707/01/2022

Q1 2022: let's do this

Q1 2022: let's do this

Get ready—beacuse in this Startup Survival episode, we’re tackling our goals for the new year. This past year has been awesome, but ultimately super challenging. I’ve learned a lot, and I want to channel that into positive and productive goals in 2022. I hope that sharing what my company faced in 2021 and what I’ve got in mind for the coming year it will help you in reflecting on your own year ahead. Because I’m not a fan of broad, vague resolutions, I’m sharing the system my team uses to break down our goals into manageable, achievable next steps.Here’s to a fantastic 2022!Episode highlights1:13 While 2021 was awesome in many ways, my company faced some big challenges in the past year. 6:58 I have some ideas I can’t wait to implement to help us reach our goals for next year. 7:45 Here’s how my leadership team puts together our quarterly and annual goals. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:3905/01/2022

How transparent should I be with the people around me?

How transparent should I be with the people around me?

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we’re talking about transparency. Do we need to share every tiny detail—or only let people in on the highlights?Transparency is the foundation of trust, but it can be tricky to figure out how transparent you should be with the people around you. If you have employees, being honest with them is critical for building strong relationships. When you don’t communicate with the people around you, you don’t give them the chance to understand you, support you or help fix the issue. I’ve learned all of this the hard way, and it’s something I’m still learning.At the end of the episode, I share the meeting format I use to ensure I’m being fully transparent with my team. It’s not always pretty, but I’m proud of our level of transparency and the great work it has inspired. Episode highlights1:00 Transparency is the foundation of trust. Many of us have a natural instinct to protect people so we don't tell them the hard stuff.2:08 If you are not being transparent with someone, you are doing them a disservice and you're doing yourself a disservice. 3:21 My story of a time when I wasn’t transparent with my team about the company’s finances, and what I learned from it. 6:59 My system for communicating regularly and openly with my team about the status of the company. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:5403/01/2022

Vaca mode – see you in 2022

Vaca mode – see you in 2022

Vacation time!The week of December 28, I’m showing up for myself by taking a break. Whatever relaxation or rejuvenation looks like for you, I hope you also take some time this holiday season to give yourself that gift. I subscribed to the belief that you must work 24/7 for a long time—and it burned me out. Don’t fall into the same trap.We’ll be back with another episode of big questions, short answers on Monday, January 3! I hope you all have a wonderful week, enjoy whatever holidays you celebrate, and take some time to relax with your loved ones.Thank you and I’ll see you in 2022!More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

02:0024/12/2021

Hiring Friends and Family

Hiring Friends and Family

Would you hire a friend or family member? In this episode of Startup Survival, we’re tackling a controversial topic as I share what I’ve learned from mixing business and personal relationships. One of the benefits of being an entrepreneur is that you can hire the people you want to be around. You’re also in a position to help others who you know would benefit from the experience and the paycheck. Sometimes the partnership is fantastic; with strong boundaries in place, you can both grow professionally while becoming closer personally. Other times (possibly more often than not), it could lead to tension both in and out of the workplace. So, should you hire friends or family? It depends! At the end of this episode, I share the questions you should ask yourself when considering whether to hire someone close to you. Episode highlights1:33 I’ve continued to work successfully with a friend thanks to the really strong boundary he established between the business and the personal relationship. 3:19 I’ve also mixed business and family with poor results because we failed to discuss whether it was a good idea and whether it would serve us both. 4:10 Yes, this is a mistake I’ve repeated: in another situation, I was trying to do someone a favor I didn’t really think it all the way through or I would’ve realized it was  unlikely to go well. 6:09 There are some very important boundaries and questions that you have to set up for yourself if you’re considering hiring a friend or family. You have to dig in to understand what your motivation is behind the decision. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:4822/12/2021

New year, new you?

New year, new you?

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we are talking about the value of New Year’s resolutions. Personally, I’m not a big New Year’s resolutions person. Every January, people set goals for the coming year that are supposed to set them on the path to having the best year ever—but are they effective? Resolutions could be a great way to make the changes you’ve always wanted; however, I think they do more harm than good. When you put all the pressure on making large changes at the New Year, eventually you will miss one or two of these habits, and likely pretty quickly, throw away the entire system.That said, I’m a huge fan of setting goals for yourself! In this episode, I share my tips on how you can set realistic, achievable goals for yourself, and the tactics I use to I actually follow through on the goals I set. Episode highlights00:53 Resolutions are simply our goals for next year; we often make them naturally for ourselves and our business. 2:03 Setting goals is clearly a good thing; if you make them attainable, they can be very motivating. 3:35 People have the tendency to throw the baby out with the bathwater once they’ve missed a little step, which is why I’m not a fan of only setting goals at the New Year. 5:25 By focusing on one habit at a time, you can focus on it and figure out what really works for you. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:1720/12/2021

Other people’s reactions

Other people’s reactions

In today’s S*%! People Say episode, we are talking about other people’s reactions. Remember: you cannot control how other people react; however, you still have a duty to communicate with them. When we worry too much about how someone might react, we tend to avoid providing feedback. This is a disservice to both of you. Although you can’t control how someone might react, you can work to share your thoughts in a way that maximizes how well they hear that feedback. There have certainly been times when I’ve not absorbed feedback or reacted well because the way it was presented put me on high alert. But my reaction was not that person’s responsibility!In the episode, I share how my team has developed an awesome way of communicating how we like to hear feedback that has helped us navigate day-to-day tasks and tough conversations. Tune in and hear if it will work for relationships in your life.Episode highlights1:25 Feedback is crucial. You must give others an opportunity to fix a situation, even if you don’t think they’ll react well. 2:18 Everyone hears feedback differently and your words sound different to you than they do to other people. You have to take that into consideration when communicating. 3:39 My personal feedback style is that I prefer to have some time to think before the conversation so I can come prepared. 4:41 Regardless of how you think people might react, you have a duty to communicate with them, both personally and professionally.  More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

06:1717/12/2021

Taking calculated risks

Taking calculated risks

In this Startup Survival episode, we are diving into a topic anyone thinking about starting their own business must get comfortable with: taking calculated risks. When will a risk bring you toward your goal, and when is a risk, well, too risky?Evaluating risk naturally requires weighing the benefits versus the drawbacks. I share just how thoroughly I think through a risk so that I’ve played out all of the possible repercussions of my decision. Some might say it’s a pessimistic mindset, but it’s helped me navigate my years as an entrepreneur by fully understanding the stakes.  Tune in because at the end of this episode, we’ll also talk about how to handle what to do when others insert their opinion about the risk(s) you’re taking (and they will). But if you have thoroughly examined what’s right for you, then you can feel secure in your own instincts. Episode highlights00:26 Some choices are really easy, but some you have to truly calculate whether or not you want to take a risk. 2:10 By examining all scenarios, I can acknowledge and accept them, and I can know how I would react in each situation. 5:51 I plan for every possibility to ensure I can still take care of my family even if the risk doesn’t pay off. 7:13 When it comes to taking risks, just know that people are not always going to get it. You only need to trust yourself. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:0115/12/2021

Is the hard work worth it?

Is the hard work worth it?

Happy Monday, everyone! In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we’re talking about whether the work you're putting in is worth it. Have you ever felt like you’re logging countless hours without seeing the results you wanted? I definitely have.Knowing when to let something go is a crucial skill to learn, and applies beyond building a business. Sometimes, letting go is the right thing to do because no amount of hard work can save a situation—and you’ll be better off for walking away. Other times, you need to dig in and push through to the other side. I’m still figuring it out, but knowing what’s worth my time and effort has helped me grow personally and professionally. At the end of this episode, I share the philosophy I use when making a decision about whether a commitment is worth it. Answering this one question will help you decide whether to keep going or to peacefully move on. Episode highlights00:58 You should be continually evaluating whether or not the situation is working for you and if it’s not working, what changes you need to make in order for your situation to work again. 4:45 I share a personal story about a time I felt I had to walk away from the hard work I put in for the benefit of my family. 5:48 Some days I feel like it's still just my management team and my team's sheer will and determination that is keeping the company going—and that work is worth it.7:19 When evaluating your time, you may have to make some changes but it's still possible to recommit.8:15 When evaluating your situation and wondering whether the work is worth it, you ultimately need to consider your own happiness.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

10:1013/12/2021

It’s Not Personal, It’s Just Business

It’s Not Personal, It’s Just Business

In today’s S*%! People Say episode, we are talking about one of the worst phrases ever: “It’s not personal, it’s just business.” I’ve been hearing this phrase for years and I think it’s total BS. If the last two years of this pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that business and personal life are not separate—in fact, they’re more intertwined than ever.In this episode, I argue that a business should be personal in order for it to be successful. Employees deserve to be treated with respect—and like humans. In order to retain employees during the “Great Resignation” we must provide the benefits they deserve, and definitely not act under the guise of “business isn’t personal.”If you’ve heard this phrase from someone before, know that sometimes people are just justifying their ruthless behavior. And if you’re someone who uses this phrase, maybe this episode will change your mind. Episode Highlights:01:57 I don't think that we should be forced to show up as completely different people in our personal lives and at work. 03:35 Business is personal because it is my business; I have poured so much of my time and energy into the company that I'm building.04:30 Business is personal because it is fueled by people.05:55 Business is personal because empathy is absolutely required to be a good leader. I don't think the idea that “it's not personal, its business” can be remotely combined with empathetic leadership.06:53 Business is personal because people buy from people. People connect with people and people buy on emotion.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:0410/12/2021

Discounting

Discounting

Discounting: are you for it or against it? We’re tackling this controversial topic in this week’s Startup Survival episode.My two cents is that discounting sucks. I am not really into discounting my products and services for a number of reasons. In this episode, I’m sharing all my thoughts on why I believe discounting is bad for business. Tune in as we cover how to go about discounting, or not, whatever you choose; what discounting signals about your company; how to explain your policy to prospects; and more!Episode Highlights:00:45 No one feels good when negotiating a discount because it’s hard to feel like you actually got the best price. 04:25 Even when you're scaling a company or growing a small business, it often feels like you do not have the power to tell people to walk over things like price. 06:25 When you are looking to build a book of business with clients who can be long-term partners, then hard negotiations and upfront discounting is a major red flag. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:0808/12/2021

When is it time to start hiring employees?

When is it time to start hiring employees?

Happy Monday, everyone! In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we are talking about expanding your company by hiring employees. Hiring employees seems like a natural next step when you’re growing a business, but it doesn’t always have to be. Most people don’t think hard enough about what it actually takes to hire, manage, retain, and grow a team. Tune in as I share with you the process I went through when I realized I needed to hire employees for my business. I’ll also weigh the pros and cons of being a solopreneur, and whether an employee or a contractor is the better hire. At the end of this episode, we are going to discuss the changes you’ll experience once you hire employees to help you with your business. When you start hiring, you’ll be spending your time differently than before—but when done correctly, this can be a huge benefit.  Episode Highlights:01:05 Hiring employees seems like a natural step when you’re growing a business but it doesn’t always have to be. 04:07 If you think expanding your team is the right way to go and you have the desire to be a manager, then you should consider whether you should hire employees or contractors.07:29 I decided it was time to start hiring employees because I wanted people that were fully committed to the mission. 08:12 If you want to hire a team, you have to be prepared to spend less time doing the thing that you love. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

10:1406/12/2021

How you treat one person is how you treat everyone

How you treat one person is how you treat everyone

Welcome to another episode of S*%! People Say! Today, we’re talking about what you can learn about someone from the way they treat others.I really hate it when people treat others poorly because they think someone is beneath them… And it’s almost worse when people treat someone better than others because they think that person has some power over their situation. In personal and professional relationships, it’s important to remember that how you treat one person is how you treat everyone. We all have examples of people who have shown us their true colors, and in this episode, I share two recent stories about what I’ve learned from the way people have treated me and my team.Episode Highlights00:41 I think we have the tendency to give people a pass when they treat one person poorly but treat other people well. 03:04 In every business deal, there has to be a baseline of being respectful and kind. 04:01 Pay attention to anyone who treats power differently than they treat others—they’re going to be a pain in the butt to work with. 04:54 People who are kind to everyone are kind to everyone. People who are unkind, even if it’s to someone else, are likely to display that behavior towards you. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

05:4703/12/2021

Bootstrapping

Bootstrapping

In this Startup Survival episode, we cover one of the most important parts of starting a business: funding. While there are many funding options available for entrepreneurs, I found that bootstrapping worked best for me and my company. I won’t sugarcoat it: starting a business with no outside funding is a humongous challenge and incredibly risky. However, I’m so proud that I made it work because it meant I was able to grow my company without having to answer to anyone else. I had the freedom and flexibility I needed to build at my own pace and to trust my own instincts. Funding shouldn’t prevent someone with an awesome idea from building their company. Keep listening to hear my tips and tricks for bootstrapping your business and to learn from the mistakes I’ve made.  Episode Highlights:01:45 The reality of bootstrapping is a lot riskier—but also a lot more rewarding. 04:17 The key to success in bootstrapping is selling and using that money to fund the company. All startups need to sell, but bootstrapping inherently provides a different level of motivation. 05:15 Invest in the foundation of the company right off the bat. I chose to invest in people before building cash reserves.07:00 If I could do it all over again, I would have spent over a year or two building a really solid professional network. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:5901/12/2021

How to be a better leader

How to be a better leader

In today’s Big Questions, Short Answers episode, we are talking about how to become a better leader—or rather, how to avoid becoming your employees’ least favorite manager ever. We’ve all had bosses we couldn’t stand, but hopefully we’ve all also had bosses who empowered us and nurtured our careers. In this episode, I’ll highlight the differences between the two and the impact it has on your workplace as you build your company. At the end of this episode, I share what I’ve learned about how to become a better leader. By being willing to take a hard look at your own shortcomings, and by rewarding your team for their efforts, you can cultivate strong leadership within your organization.  Episode highlights00:59 To be a good leader, you have to be a real person. When managers force their authority on people, it ruins the boss-employee relationship. 03:49 Bad managers can create a toxic work environment, continually forcing the people that work under them to leave. 05:18 The best bosses I’ve had gave me freedom and flexibility. They let me use them as a resource. They challenged me, and they gave me hard and direct feedback. 06:48 In eight years of growing my company, here’s what I’ve learned about how to become a better boss.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:5429/11/2021

Some mother you are

Some mother you are

In today’s S*%! People Say episode; we’re talking about being a working parent. People often think that being a good parent and being successful are mutually exclusive. I don’t think that’s true at all, and I’ll tell you why today.In this episode, I share the story that made me really understand this stigma almost 10 years ago. Unfortunately, not much has changed, and there are still a lot of assumptions around parents who are working hard on their own dreams and also raising a family.If you are a parent chasing your dreams, some people are going to judge you. It’s almost inevitable. You can use it as fuel to be even more present at work and home, even more strategic with how you use your time—or it can take you down. It’s really up to you.Episode Highlights:1:35 Being a good parent is really about the quality time that you spend with your kids and being there when they need you. 2:28 A friend of mine at the time, or a woman who I thought was a friend of mine, kind of out of the blue said “some mother you are”.3:14 I believe this happened because society told her that you could not be successful, have your own life, and be a mother. 4:10 Women are taught to feel guilty when they chase their own dreams instead of dedicating their lives to others. 4:44 If you’re a parent chasing your dreams, some people are going to judge you. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

06:0726/11/2021

My Entrepreneurial Journey

My Entrepreneurial Journey

Today, we’re discussing a true survival story: my entrepreneurial journey. I recently realized that I have never really told MY story on this podcast, so I will tell you a short(ish) version of the journey. Buckle up!First, we are going to talk a little bit about my personal experiences while I built my first business, a cookie company. Then I’ll talk about how I started and grew Accelity—the good, the bad, the very ugly, and all the lessons I’ve learned from bootstrapping my agency to 7-figures in a global pandemicMy biggest lesson is that you have to trust the process. Consistency and persistence are two of the greatest strengths of an entrepreneur. Don’t give up, and thanks for tuning in!Episode Highlights:01:14 When I was growing up, stability was emphasized by my dad. He did not go to college, and he thought that going to college and getting a good job was the right path for me. 03:18 I really didn’t realize when we started how hard it would be to make a profit. 05:23 I didn’t know when I started my agency that the up and down roller coaster would last for five years. 08:17 I still ask myself all the time, am I in this? Is this something that I want to keep doing? Of course, my answer is always a resounding yes, but sometimes it takes me a little bit to get there. 08:41 There’s no perfect formula to growing a company. It’s hard, but it’s a different kind of hard. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

11:1224/11/2021

Are My Goals Big Enough?

Are My Goals Big Enough?

Welcome to another Monday episode of Big Questions, Short Answers! IMO, the goals you set should make you uncomfortable, and maybe even scare you. So today, we’re discussing how I found out that mine weren’t big enough, and how to examine yours.Listen in as I share how I went from thinking small and setting goals just within an arm’s reach to really pushing myself, and the early seeds that planted a lot of growth—not just for me, but for my company, Accelity. Finally, at the end of the episode, we are going to discuss auditing who is in your circle and why that matters in relation to setting huge goals. Growth can be uncomfortable, but the results are also so incredibly rewarding. If you want more tips on how to grow via setting goals, this episode is for you! Episode Highlights:00:50 Your goals should make you uncomfortable, and they should scare you. 2:45 It’s been easy to lose sight of those big goals while we’re surviving these past couple of years, but my mind is opening up to new things. 4:02 I think a lot of people take pleasure in other people’s misery. Comparing yourself to make sure you’re doing better doesn’t make you any better. 4:22 The people that I spend time with now are big thinkers, and they’re action takers. 4:48 They challenge me, they don’t put up with my crap, and they make me think larger. Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

06:4922/11/2021

Assertive vs. Aggressive

Assertive vs. Aggressive

In today’s S*%! People Say episode; we’re talking about a word I’ve been called plenty of times in my career—aggressive. Over the years, I’ve decided to accept and own the label to make it mine (instead of letting people define it for me). I have been called this soooo many times and find it SUPER interesting, especially as a woman. Listen in as I share a quick look at what the labels aggressive and assertive actually mean, how to overcome them, and what to do if you're battling this same issue.If you’ve been labeled aggressive or otherwise, please know that you are absolutely not alone. We can’t control people’s perceptions of us, but through good communication, we can try to get on the same page and use these opportunities to examine ourselves.Episode Highlights:00:59 I believe that women are often looked at as “aggressive” for doing things that the world doesn’t bat an eye at unless it’s women taking that action.01:35 To me, the difference between these two words (aggressive and assertive) is often in the perceiver’s eye. 01:50 Women actually have a very long history of being labeled aggressive in the workplace. I believe that is because assertive behavior is expected from men, and it is often a shock when it comes from women.05:00 The label aggressive is a heavy one to carry and it kind of dimmed my light a little bit. It made me less bold. I tried to fit in. I took fewer risks. 06:04 There is some merit in every piece of feedback. Every criticism often has some layer of truth, even though we don’t want to admit it.07:07 One of the keys of life—is figuring out how to tailor your communication to each person in your life (to speak in a way that they can hear you). Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

09:1619/11/2021

3 biggest mistakes I made building a company

3 biggest mistakes I made building a company

Happy Wednesday, friends! In this Startup Survival episode, we cover the 3 biggest mistakes that I’ve made during my journey in building a 7-figure business from scratch. Frankly, I’ve made a LOT of mistakes in the past and I continue to make mistakes. Making mistakes is normal… everyone does it! That being said, the smartest entrepreneurs and professionals can learn from the mistakes of others and avoid making the same mistakes themselves.Listen in today, as we will discuss the biggest mistakes I made in detail, coupled with solutions that I’ve learned while making them, including hiring mistakes, scaling mistakes, and a lot more.Episode Highlights:00:58 I think the best entrepreneurs and professionals can learn from the mistakes of others and avoid making those same mistakes themselves.01:31 I have always been a “go with my gut” kind of person, which is fine in many situations, but you can’t structure a company based on your gut feelings.04:04 I avoided doing the more active outreach because I didn’t want to be annoying, and I was too soft to hear the word “no.”05:16 Remember to sell even when you think you do not have to. If you’re running a service-based company like mine, it is often feast or famine.06:31 There’s no way to ensure that every single hire you make will work out.Here are the Traction books I mentioned—if you want to check them out!https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-library Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

10:1317/11/2021

Am I burning out?

Am I burning out?

In today’s Big Questions, Short Answers episode, we are answering a question that most high achievers run into at some point—am I burning out? I think we all know when we are on the verge of burning out. After having gone through this myself a number of times and coaching my team members through periods of burnout, I’ve realized that if we are self aware enough, we can identify when we’re approaching it. In this episode, we discuss the warning signs of burnout (that many people choose to ignore), and what to do once you identify those signs. Then, we will also talk about some of the coping strategies that have been working for me. If you’re feeling on the verge of burnout, this episode is definitely for you! Episode Highlights01:04 We can identify approaching burnout and when it will happen, and we can do something about it. But most people do not.02:24 I think we also ignore our physical health when it comes to burnout.03:54 The strain of managing everyone else’s emotions and all of the changes just turned into not a great situation. I couldn’t even identify the burnout until I was 100% in it.05:42 Every single day, without fail, I was writing, “it’s OK to take a break.” Your body and mind are telling you that you need a break, so take it and give yourself some grace.07:11 When my body isn’t recovering as it should, I know that I have to slow down.07:19 I’ve also found that lowering my expectations during workouts helps prevent burnout.08:00 I watch my and my team’s capacity at work.Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

10:2815/11/2021

Bad advice: finding mentors & coaches

Bad advice: finding mentors & coaches

Welcome to another Friday episode of S*%! People Say! Today, we’re talking about bad advice and how to go about finding GOOD mentors and coaches. IMO, most advice is bad advice. Make sure you vet the people you’re taking advice from.Early in my career, I was really skeptical of the advice of others. I wondered how valuable mentors and coaches would be for me and it took me a little too long to get onboard with having a coach.In this episode, we’ll also dive into social media perception. We’ve chatted about this before: if people look like they have it really good, make sure they actually do before you take their advice. At the end of this episode, we discuss how to find coaches and mentors that you trust. If you’re looking for a coach, make sure you find someone you jive with, who holds you accountable and challenges you to be the best version of yourself! Episode Highlights:02:12 I truly believe that mentors and coaches are one of the major keys to success. 03:30 I typically look for humble people that I respect who are on the same path as me and only give advice when I ask for it. 05:04 When you are looking for mentors, the biggest thing is respect. Look for someone who has proven themselves. They have done what you want them to do and are willing to help you get where they are. 07:48 When you are looking for a coach, make sure that you find someone who guides you and asks questions (versus telling you what to do). And accountability is key.Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:3512/11/2021

How to spend less time in meetings

How to spend less time in meetings

Listen to this Startup Survival episode if you’ve ever been a victim of a meeting that should’ve been an email. (Okay, that’s everyone.) Today, we are talking all about why spending less time in meetings is crucial for your success. First, we’ll talk about auditing your schedule to ensure the time you spend is productive and that you leave the time needed to get focused work done. Honestly, I think I could record an entire hour on the tactical ways to get this done—but to stick with the promise of this podcast (10 minutes or less!), I’ll cover two solid ways to protect your time.At the end of the episode, I leave you with one bonus tip on saying NO politely. Remember, friends, make sure the way you spend your time is lockstep your long-term goals!Episode Highlights:00:45 I think we are too nice to say no or have a hard time deciphering what is exactly worth our time and what isn’t. 01:18 How to audit your schedule to ensure that the time you spend is truly the best use of it. 04:08 You should have a minimum of two hours a day where you are super focused, and nothing can come between you and the focused work.05:49 Make sure that every meeting has an agenda. 07:09 I made it a company-wide policy that my team should leave meetings when they are not needed. 08:00 Learn how to say no politely; this is an art that we all have to master to protect our time. Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:1110/11/2021

How do you find the time?

How do you find the time?

Happy Monday! In today’s Big Questions, Short Answers episode, we’re answering the question: how do you find the time? TBH, as long as you believe that someday you’re going to magically find more time—you’re definitely not going to have the time to build your side hustle, get that promotion or do anything else. (I know because I spent years believing this too.) In this episode, I talk about where I went wrong in trying to find time, burnout, and the ONE thing that finally worked for me, a time study. (My business coach had me audit my time and it’s a game-changer. Beware: completing a time study is going to open your eyes to your own BS. Get ready!)My last piece of advice is to explicitly write out the steps that will get you from where you are now to where you want to be—and hold yourself accountable to them. The simple steps covered in this episode worked for me, and I bet they’ll help you make more time. Episode Highlights:00:59 As long as you believe that someday you will magically find more time, you are almost certainly not going to.02:20 Back in the early 2010’s, all the business influencers were saying that working 60 to 80 hours a week was the only way to get a business off the ground. 03:15 My business coach had me log all of my time for a full week, down to each tiny detail. 05:40 When you know where your time is going, you should be able to give yourself back time.08:20 Complete a time study to examine how you’re spending your time, and then make a plan to spend it differently.Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTok

09:4408/11/2021

When people lash out at you

When people lash out at you

In today’s S*%! People Say episode, we’re discussing what to do when people lash out at you. Of course, it goes without saying, people will inevitably lash out at you here and there—but not always for the reasons you think.People lash out in all different ways. Having a fairly active personal brand, it happens to me all the time on social media via comments, DMs, etc. Unfortunately, lashing out also happens in real life with your friends and family. Often in this case, it’s actually because they trust you or are closest to you… I’ll tell you how I learned this and what I do with this information.Finally, at the end of the episode, we will get into how to respond when someone is lashing out at you. Stay strong out there, my friends!Episode highlights:02:51 - Give yourself one hour to feel all of your feelings and to rage.05:13 - People that are close to you lash out at you because they trust you. They feel comfortable acting in a way that they may not feel comfortable acting in other situations. 06:29 - The most important thing to know about someone lashing out at you is that retaliating is about the worst thing that you can do. 07:12 - If you can take a deep breath and take in what they are saying, and maybe even relate to them, it will take you a long way in these situations.Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

08:3105/11/2021

Why no should be your favorite word

Why no should be your favorite word

Happy Hump Day! Today in this Startup Survival episode, we’re talking about why NO should be your favorite word. IMO, saying no kindly is one of the most important skills you must learn if you want to be successful. In this episode, we’ll discuss how to prioritize what to say yes to—and how to get more comfortable declining those invitations when you inevitably say no. Then, I’ll cover one of my favorite books (Essentialism by Greg McKeown) that changed my entire approach to how I say no.It’s SO important to learn how to say “no”—and that’s a muscle that only grows with patience, time and consistency.Episode highlights:02:13 - Are you saying no nicely? Are you tough but kind? And are you saying no to the right things?04:04 - The awkward pause approach05:05 - The “No, but” approach05:55 - The rule approach06:50 - Be straightforward. You can say no in a straightforward way with a lot of kindness.  Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

08:4703/11/2021

Should I Be Growing Faster?

Should I Be Growing Faster?

Happy November! In today’s episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we’re talking about a question I ask myself all the time: should I be growing faster? Unfortunately, the startup world has continued to glorify sudden growth. My two cents? There is honor in growing slowly and steadily over time.In this episode, we discuss how quickly you should be growing. My entire story is one of pretty slow progress, and I am proud of that because slow progress is a product of persistence, patience, and hard work. Growth is something to be proud of no matter how quickly or slowly it happenedUltimately, if you’re here listening, you’re already putting aside time to grow (which puts you ahead in so many ways). Have faith in the process and have faith in yourself. Keep going! Episode highlights:01:03 - Growth almost never comes fast, and change almost never comes fast either. 02:49 - Who determines how quickly a company should grow? And what is fast? It depends on what you’re comparing your growth to. 03:31 - My progress has been a long slow path as well. 06:35 - Have faith in the process, and have faith in yourself. Keep going. It does not matter how fast or slow you go, as long as you continue on. Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

07:2501/11/2021

Backhanded compliments

Backhanded compliments

Hello and Happy Friday! In this S*%! People Say, episode, we are going to talk about backhanded compliments. Trust me when I say, as a female founder especially, I’ve heard plenty of them. TBH, I think that most people don’t even realize when they’re delivering backhanded compliments. So today, we are going to discuss some of the things that people assume (and have said to both me and others). Then we will get into how to address biases and backhanded compliments head-on. At the end of the episode, we will talk about how to directly respond by addressing these backhanded compliments in a tactful way. If you’re unsure how to deal with backhanded compliments in general, this episode is definitely for you. Episode highlights:01:23 - There is a wide range of backhanded compliments, and some of them you might just take with a smile. But there are other comments on the spectrum you absolutely cannot take with a smile, and you must call out. 02:04 - Many of us are taught to smile and nod instead of calling people on their bias. 02:15 - The callout method is not especially helpful. It can make you feel good, but the receiver is not going to learn anything. 02:59 - Usually, when you address a backhanded compliment head-on, people are surprised.03:11 - Hopefully, when you address these compliments, the people giving them will think twice before delivering compliments in such a manner in the future. Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

05:1129/10/2021

Why most marketing programs fail

Why most marketing programs fail

Welcome to this Wednesday’s Startup Survival episode! Today, we are going to discuss why a lot of marketing programs fail. (Disclaimer: this is a nuanced topic that I cannot cover *fully* in 10 minutes. But I will share the single biggest reason I see marketing programs bomb!)First, we’re going to discuss some of the common pitfalls that people get into when approaching their marketing. Then we will get into some of the key ingredients of marketing strategies that actually work. At the end of the episode, I will share with you a few real-world examples that you can apply to your marketing today. And of course, I have to mention that my startup marketing course walks you all the way from planning to execution, testing and measuring. Be sure to check it out— I’ll leave a link from you here below. Jackie Hermes startup marketing courseEpisode highlights:00:35 - We get caught up in a lot of the options, and we think we have to build this crazy system that focuses on “should.” 03:58 - Your website has to have a couple of things right: 1) a clear message, 2) a clear flow. 05:21 - You do not have to be on every single social media platform.06:25 - Ask yourself where your audience is spending time, and produce content specifically for that platform. 07:18 - Choose what you can do, and do it well. Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

08:5727/10/2021

What are the key ingredients to success?

What are the key ingredients to success?

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we talk about the key ingredients to success. They are not necessarily what you think they are. The ingredients we are talking about are not material things at all.  Money and connections may enable you to move faster but many people blow their “leg up” by making dumb choices or being impatient. And most people give up before they even have a chance to taste the success they want because they miss those key ingredients we’re talking about in this episode.  Episode highlights:00:58 - You need 1) a smart plan, 2) the dedication to work hard, 3) consistency, and 4) patience. 04:03 - What I was missing during those years was a solid growth plan and some of the resources. I am in the place I am today only because of consistency, hard work, and patience. 04:33 - If you’re struggling right now or wondering if what you’re doing is working, take a look at your plan. 05:02 - Stay patient, stay consistent, stay humble, and remember: there is really no such thing as an overnight success. Contact: Jackie HermesLinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite  

06:1925/10/2021

When people say you're wasting your time

When people say you're wasting your time

Happy Friday! In this Sh*t People Say episode, we’re talking about what to do when people say you’re wasting your time on something. People LOVE to debate about what is a waste of time versus what isn’t… and frankly, what you choose to spend your time on is none of their business.Listen in as we discuss dealing with the challenge of people not ‘understanding’ how you are choosing to spend your time. Later in the episode, we’ll also get into when to take these opinions from others more seriously while pursuing your vision and goals. (Disclaimer, it’s a good idea to get opinions from qualified people.)Remember, ultimately, you are in control, not other people. No one can really determine whether you’re wasting your time but you.Episode Highlights:01:33 People love to share their opinions. (That’s what this entire segment is about.) 02:09 Often I end up discovering that people think I’m wasting my time because they don’t get it. They don’t understand my vision, my motivation or my goals—and that’s okay. 05:03 Everyone has different opinions, the most important thing to learn is how to gather feedback from others and take that feedback in a neutral way. 06:11 If you can consider the worst-case scenario and you can be fine in the event that it happens, then I think you can be much more confident in your decisions. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

07:1122/10/2021

Why you must fire crappy customers

Why you must fire crappy customers

In this Startup Survival episode, we talk about how to go about spotting a potentially “crappy” customer during the sales process. Sometimes identifying a crappy potential customer is simple—but most of the time, it’s not.  We’ll get into a few of the ‘warning signs’ to be on the lookout for with prospects and discuss important things to consider, like whether your potential customer is a good or bad pain in the ass (PITA) and how to identify both. Because, honestly, how you’re treated during the sales process is a very good sign of how your team will be treated after the deal is done. Make sure to tune in to hear all the practical tips on how to spot a crappy customer from the start—and if you have a potentially crappy customer already on your roster, it’s time to strongly consider getting rid of them. Episode Highlights:03:12 When you have an unhappy client, of course, you have to fix it, but I think there is a nice and a productive way to address issues (versus a just straight up rude way).05:48 If your potential customer has unrealistic expectations, then you’re setting yourself up for failure. 06:11 They say that one that speaks poorly about others to you is likely to speak badly about you to others. 06:52 When you’re delivering a service, the price is the price. 08:54 When you see a potential crappy customer, you have to move on and it will pay you dividends in the end. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:5220/10/2021

Is the concept of “hustle” BS?

Is the concept of “hustle” BS?

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we’re talking about whether or not the word “hustle” and the concepts behind it are valid. The word hustle was popular for a while… then it wasn’t… then it was… now it isn’t. So what’s the deal? Is there still merit to the word? What does it actually mean, and is the concept of hustling to grow a company still valid?The word “hustle” has really experienced a sharp rise in popularity and a sharp fall over the last decade or so. Influencers like Gary V preached that we should all hustle (or put tons of ours into our work)—but most of them recently stopped. My two cents is that even though the term hustle may be momentarily dead, many of the ideas behind the word (like consistency and hard work) most definitely are not.As always, the trick is to figure out what works the best for you. In this episode, we’ll dissect the term “hustle” and what’s behind it, and figure out how to apply it to your life.Episode Highlights02:36 I am not a believer you can work way less and you can earn way more. I think the amount that you work, and how hard and smart you work is correlated to the amount that you earn. 04:34 I think the trick is figuring out what works for you. 05:19 Ask yourself, what is your point of diminishing returns?05:44 Hustle to me means working smart, working hard, and working consistently. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

06:2718/10/2021

A tactical guide to auditing your circle

A tactical guide to auditing your circle

In this S*%! People Say episode, we talk a little more in-depth about the importance of auditing your circle of friends. Remember that not every person you meet will remain friends with you for the rest of your life—and that’s exactly how it should be.Keep the people around who inspire you every day, the ones who make you a better person. Alternatively, some people are toxic (or maybe you’re just toxic for each other) and should be removed from your life for a variety of reasons. It’s important to do this to move forward with both your goals and your personal growth.With this in mind, I have a little exercise that will help you know who to keep and let go of—make sure you listen in for these tips.Episode Highlights:2:09 - Just because someone is nice doesn't mean that you must keep in touch with them and it doesn’t mean that you should dedicate your precious/limited time to maintaining a friendship2:45 - People that are negative, or people that actively work against you have to be removed from your circle. Sometimes people just light up your nervous system in a bad way.4:21 - Something that successful people do, but most of the general population doesn’t, is adding people to their circle that represent what they want in the future or who they want to be.7:50 - Be patient, be persistent, be kind, be giving, and be grateful if they do give you their time.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:3015/10/2021

3 ideas to grow your business faster

3 ideas to grow your business faster

Are you ready to get tactical with me today? In this Startup Survival episode, we are discussing three ideas to grow your business. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about building and growing a company… and not all of them were easy lessons by any means.Trying different things can turn out well, and it can turn out not so well. The three tips I’m sharing today eventually became an essential part of growing my business.Remember that in the startup world, it’s essential to find the perfect growth recipe for YOUR business. What works for me may or may not work for you. That said, these recommendations are tried and true by many business owners and I hope they work for you!Episode Highlights1:23 - The importance of getting specific with your target audience and how to go about doing it4:34 - Make sure you have a documented process of how you’ve sold in the past, then go out and see if you can find someone to sell for you, even part-time, to amp up your pipeline.5:10 LinkedIn is the easiest platform to grow on without putting a bunch of money into ads.5:20 You have to be willing to get out there and be super consistent. And you have to put in the time to grow an audience and to make connections and really build a community. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:1513/10/2021

Do you take care of yourself? No, really?

Do you take care of yourself? No, really?

In this episode of Big questions, Short Answers, we talk about whether you really take care of yourself. Most of the time we show up for others WAY more than we show up for ourselves, and it has to stop.Unfortunately, most people don’t value showing up for themselves at all. For example, parents show up for their kids while running themselves ragged. We keep commitments with our friends even when we’re so exhausted we want to pass out. I want to share with you how I discovered the importance of taking care of myself and the little things that make me feel happier.Remind yourself that you should also be a priority in your life. Don’t over-commit to things, take care of yourself, and be kind to yourself.Are you doing things that make you happy? I urge you to do one thing today that will make you feel light and happy.Episode Highlights:2:30 - If you don’t make time for your health, you’ll be forced to make time for your illness3:23 - I now have finally gotten to the place where I am spending time taking care of myself, without guilt4:24 - Remember that you only have one body and you have one life. You are a limited edition, one of one.7:53 - Do you take care of yourself? If the answer is no or not as much as I would like to, then it’s time to change some habitsGet a free WHOOP 4.0 and your first month free when you join with my link: https://join.whoop.com/#/0CB4B5 More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:5811/10/2021

Perception vs. reality (social media edition)

Perception vs. reality (social media edition)

In the episode of S*%! People Say, we are talking about perception versus reality when it comes to social media. Remember that nothing is as it appears! The people who flaunt it the most often have the least. There are so many things going beyond closed doors. Today, I’m going to share with you a story that is a perfect example of this. This episode is more of a ‘PSA’ versus a tactical episode. Often, these digital narratives are fake. Unfortunately, social media is where far too many people seek validation or flaunting a phony identity.Does social media make you feel bad? Like you’re not enough? If so, this episode is for you.HIGHLIGHTS1:03 - How negative Social Media can be and why1:46 - A story about someone that looked really well off on social media that actually… wasn’t2:49 - Curate your feed and follow  the people that make you happyMore about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

04:3208/10/2021

Why you must know how to sell

Why you must know how to sell

In this episode of Startup Survival, we’re talking about all things sales. Sales is often a topic that makes some people run for the hills…think, car salesman or someone who leaves a bad taste in your mouth. Often the negative ideas surrounding sales come from a bad personal experience.However, as a business owner, entrepreneur, or really any professional, it’s vital to know how to sell. Don’t let someone else represent your company before you know how to do it.Literally, every person in every department needs to understand how to sell.Do you know how to sell yourself? Or your work product? Many people don’t even realize how much we sell in our everyday lives—we sell our priorities, to our spouses to get buy-in on a new house project, etc. In this episode, we cover the importance of knowing how to sell, and how to go about learning the skill.HIGHLIGHTS3:15 - How important sales skills are for me and everyone else4:02 - My Journey before and after joining bootcamps.6:10 - Learning how to sell, and/or get an accountable friend.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

07:5006/10/2021

Are you productive or just “busy”?

Are you productive or just “busy”?

In this episode of Big questions, Short Answers, we discuss practical ways to maximize your productivity. To begin, ask yourself this: Are you productive or are you just busy? Being over-committed and doing a lot of tasks makes our daily schedules pretty hectic. But, honestly, it can happen quite easily, quickly filling up a calendar to capacity (and suddenly you wonder where all your time went). Are the things you are doing in the last year actually productive? How does saying ‘No’ to an activity you don’t want to participate in help you be productive? These are questions that I answer in today’s podcast.Critical thinking is a must in creating a plan on what things we should focus on and do. We can save a ton of time focusing on what is a priority and eliminating the things that don’t help us reach our goals. It is not always easy to remove commitments, but if it will not help you in the future, it’s better to let it go.HIGHLIGHTS1:50 - My story of being over-committed and having a hectic day-to-day schedule3:58 - Looking at my schedule in a more realistic way4:49 - Closing projects that do not relate, and continuing what is priority5:37 - A challenge for you to tryMore about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:0804/10/2021

How to cultivate what goes into your brain

How to cultivate what goes into your brain

In this episode of S*%! People Say, we talk about controlling what goes into your mind—which is much easier said than done. You are absolutely in charge of the information you consume. People are stressed out constantly by not filtering what goes into the brain (the news, social media, negative people, etc.) and I used to get bogged down by external inputs and negativity, too.It’s easy to unfollow, unfriend or muting, in practice. But a lot harder in reality. In this episode I share tips on how you can control what goes into your mind: turning off the TV, unsubscribing from podcasts or people, etc.Last but not least is breaking up with friends or family—most don’t but you CAN make this choice. Get clear and set boundaries with who you want to be around. Ultimately, it’s all up to you. Episode highlights:03:14 - At one point, in my late 20s, I was consuming so much gloom and doom news that it was getting hard for me to focus on anything else. 03:30 - Your family and friends are the hardest to censor. 04:35 - Social media: it is easy to unfollow, unfriend, or mute in theory, but it is harder in practice. Or you can shut down the platform if it is not serving you anymore. 06:14 - The news: turn off the TV. Turn off the notifications. Find the news source that works for you. 07:58 - Breaking up with friends or family. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcast Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

11:0101/10/2021

What to do when you want to quit

What to do when you want to quit

This week’s Startup Survival topic is quitting. What to do when you want to quit? It seems like everyone on the planet says “I’m not a quitter”—so, I’m going to tell you about a few things I quit and how I honestly felt about it. Recently, I left my founding role in a local organization hosting free events for women entrepreneurs. Why did I quit? It impacted my mental health—I was running myself ragged, and I had to put myself first. The women who are taking this over have a great plan and I’m looking forward to supporting them while no longer spearheading the lead.On the flipside, I remember a time I shouldn’t have quit 20 YEARS after it happened. When I was a senior, I quit cheerleading. I had dedicated seven years of my life to the sport and I ended up quitting due to being pissed. I still regret ending my cheerleading career on such a low note. It’s absolutely okay to quit things… if you’re doing it for the right reasons. Episode highlights:00:40 - Quitting the Women’s Entrepreneurship Week for the right reasons.02:55 - Quitting cheerleading in high school for the wrong reasons.05:40 - A few reasons you should consider when you want to quit:  1) Why do you want to quit? 2) Can you make any changes to make this more sustainable for yourself? 3) Do you want to keep going? 4) Never make a snap decision. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcast Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:2929/09/2021

Do you have what it takes?

Do you have what it takes?

This week’s big question with a short answer is “do you have what it takes?” I’ve asked myself this question repeatedly while growing a company. In some ways, I think I’m really lucky to have come out of the womb as a pig-headed person. Maybe that’s not a nice thing to say about yourself (ha) but it’s true! I’m too stubborn to quit, and having what it takes is a mindset game above all. You have to believe in yourself before anyone else. Do you do daily affirmations? I used to think it was corny but now there are a few I use in my everyday life. If I feel like I can’t push through, I tell myself these things on repeat. Remember your inner voice is influenced by what you repeat to yourself and what your mind consumes. Quit taking in all the negative BS around you. Be sure to monitor how much of the news or other people you are consuming. Most importantly, you get to choose what’s best for you!Episode highlights:02:05 - You have to be too stubborn to quit to have what it takes to do whatever you want to do.02:25 - Believe. You have to get to a place where you deeply believe in yourself before you can convince anyone else to believe in you. 03:40 - Daily affirmations - I have just a few that I use.  05:55 - Control your mind. You are in control of what your mind consumes, so start acting like it. 06:38 - Make your list of absolute non-negotiables. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcast Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:4127/09/2021

Doubters & haters

Doubters & haters

This week during our S*%! People Say episode, we're talking about people that doubt and/or hate on you. During my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve been met with plenty of criticism from both doubters and haters. While growing any company, and as you work to find a new career, plenty of negative opinions will be given along the way. So how do you deal with the unknown? What about unfair judgment and negative opinions? I want to share with you a little more today about how I’ve dealt with both doubters and haters. (They are both rooted in their own fears. I often imagine the negativity must impact their life in a variety of ways as well.) Over the years, I’ve found many ways to try and sympathize with the people who are being critical. It’s not easy, but you absolutely do not have to take on the negativity. Remember that success is absolutely a mental game, and no matter what people say to you, how you react is 90% of what matters.  Episode highlights:02:26 - I think that a doubter’s message comes from within themselves, from their own internal insecurities. 03:20 - A hater’s message comes from their own feelings about themselves. They seek out things to hate on.  06:05 - I try to sympathize with my doubters and with my haters. Instead of being a screwed-up person, I try to stand in their shoes. 08:40 - The doubt and the hate are absolutely not about you. Getting to a place where you do not immediately react in an emotional way is a really good first step. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcastHit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

10:1920/09/2021

Hiring mistakes & how to survive them

Hiring mistakes & how to survive them

In this Startup Survival episode, we talk about something that has been on everyone’s mind lately: hiring. Maybe you’ve heard of the ‘mass exodus’ in 2021? So many people are leaving jobs due to thousands of new jobs being posted out there every day with not enough people to fill them. (Which, for a quick sidebar, PSA: Never talk bad about a former employee or employer. It just won’t get you very far.) My company had an experience with this ‘exodus’ a little earlier in late 2020, so hopefully, my pain can be your gain with the lessons learned (especially lessons in the last 6 months). Some of these lessons came from mistakes, lack of policies, or not asking enough questions in the hiring process.In the startup world, every single hire is important. Bottom line: We are all growing and making mistakes. These lessons are hopefully things that will help you out when you are hiring. Episode highlights:01:50 - If you are looking for a new job, or hiring, you do not talk poorly about employees or your former employers, even if things didn't go right when you were there. 02:36 - You have to be insanely upfront in the hiring process. Tell people what challenges they are going to encounter when they join your company.04:29 - Do not make policies that force employees or potential employees to hide things from you. 07:11 - Stop hiring employees because you like them or because they like you. Make sure that you’re looking for the skills fit. More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcast Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

09:5820/09/2021

Do you ask yourself the important questions?

Do you ask yourself the important questions?

In this episode of Big Questions, Short Answers, we talk about the important questions you should be asking yourself on a regular basis. Personally, I have always filled my schedule to the brim. This left very little time for me. Maybe you can relate? It wasn’t until a few years ago that I started to take the time to spend time by myself and really think. One way I do this now is by journaling, it helps me set an intention that I never did before starting this practice. The ‘High-Performance Habits Journal’ truly helps me align with my day, my creative process and my priorities. I also have gone public and ask questions on forums and my LinkedIn. These questions can range from personal, to mindset, to business, to productivity – they are all over the board. Do you ask yourself important questions? Things such as: Do you like this person you have become? Are you happy? If you subscribe to my newsletter, you probably have noticed I frequently answer questions asked by readers as well. I genuinely believe that we all can learn something from each other, and hopefully, some of these habits can help keep you accountable too. Episode Highlights0:59 - We fill our schedules to the brim and we overcommit ourselves to avoid having to feel feelings.02:56 - Do I wanna do what I'm doing everyday? Am I happy? These are big huge questions that we have been asking ourselves?05:12 - Starting to journal really forced me to ask myself those questions and answer them every single day. 7:24 The public accountability and the public support of you asking these questions and digging into your own mind is crazy and it’s key for me.Sign up for my weekly letter: www.jackiehermes.com/sign-up-now More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcast Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

08:5120/09/2021

Welcome to The Art of Entrepreneurship

Welcome to The Art of Entrepreneurship

Welcome to the first episode of The Art of Entrepreneurship podcast with your host Jackie Hermes. As the Founder and CEO of Accelity, a marketing agency, Jackie bootstrapped her company from 0 to 7 figures with no partners and zero funding. Are you building your company? Are you trying to climb in your career? Jackie is doing the exact same thing right now. If you want to go on this journey with someone right there with you, you’re in the right place. Throughout these 10 min podcast episodes, you will get no-BS advice on what it takes to grow a company.Are you ready to do the work? Then let’s go!Highlights01:59 - I definitely recommend that for anyone who is starting a company.  Start it on the side of your day job if you can.03:16 - I made and lost a ton of money. I have underpriced my services.04:13- I’m right here with you.More about the show: www.jackiehermes.com/podcast Hit me up!LinkedInInstagramTikTokWebsite

05:0820/09/2021