Welcome to another inspiring episode of the After Work Entrepreneur Podcast! Today, host Cathy E. Smith dives into a topic that’s especially timely: why you shouldn’t wait until you’re in crisis to start your Plan B. Too often, people are pushed into entrepreneurship by unexpected layoffs or burnout, scrambling to build something from a place of fear. Cathy challenges this reactive approach, explaining the power of preparing an intentional, income-generating backup strategy long before you actually need it. In this episode, you’ll learn how to get started on your own exit plan with practical steps, simple mindset shifts, and Cathy’s signature reflection questions. Whether you’re hoping to create more freedom or future-proof your finances, Cathy’s advice will inspire you to take action today—before life forces your hand. Stick around for all the insights and find out how you can join Cathy’s upcoming Plan B workshop or connect with her for one-on-one business coaching.

After Work Entrepreneur podcast, crisis, start a business, business journey, plan B, backup strategy, income, freedom, flexibility, monetize, consistent cash flow, skill set, expertise, business foundation, exit strategy, burnout, layoffs, department restructure, side hustle, digital product, email list, building an audience, perfection vs progress, portable skill set, business idea, Mailchimp, ConvertKit, MailerLite, Systeme.io, 9 to 5 exit strategy, business coaching.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Afterwork Entrepreneur Podcast! In today’s show, your host, Cathy E. Smith, dives deep into the crucial factors you need to consider when hiring a business coach—especially if you’re a service-based professional or an after-work entrepreneur getting ready to scale your business or transition out of corporate life. Cathy shares practical tips on clarifying your goals, finding a coach with real-world experience in your industry, and making sure there’s a strong values and vision alignment. You’ll also learn how to assess coaching styles, accountability tools, and program structures to ensure you invest in the right support for your business journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality, one smart move at a time. Tune in and get ready to take the next step toward your business freedom!

after work entrepreneur, business coach, hiring a business coach, developing a business, growing your business, side hustle, transitioning to entrepreneurship, service based professional, scaling your business, corporate to entrepreneur,

Welcome to another episode of the Afterwork Entrepreneur Podcast! In this week’s show, host Cathy E. Smith dives into the essential topic of building an audience versus creating a community for your business. She breaks down the crucial differences between these two groups, sharing how audiences are about visibility and influence, while communities thrive on connection and transformation. Cathy walks you through practical steps to grow both audiences and communities from scratch—covering everything from choosing the right platforms, creating magnetic content, and authentic engagement, to running live events and accountability challenges. Whether you’re aiming to attract more eyes to your content or foster loyalty and true belonging among your followers, this episode offers actionable advice to help you find—and serve—your people. Tune in to discover which approach is the best fit for your business journey and how to get started today!

Welcome to another episode of the After Work Entrepreneur Podcast, hosted by Cathy E. Smith. In today’s episode, Cathy dives into how you can start and grow a profitable online business in the digital age—a topic that’s especially timely given the recent wave of early retirements, job losses, and the ongoing impact of the deferred resignation program in places like Washington, D.C. Cathy draws on conversations with professionals who have made successful career pivots, and she breaks down the essential first steps: identifying your niche, building a strong brand, creating reliable revenue streams, leveraging today’s powerful technology, and mapping out a clear business plan. Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship out of necessity or passion, this episode is packed with thought-provoking questions and practical tips to help guide your journey. Get ready to be inspired and equipped to make your mark online!

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the After Work Entrepreneur Podcast! Today, host Cathy E. Smith dives deep into the powerful—and sometimes uncomfortable—seasons of change that so many of us navigate. Whether you’re a new graduate anxious about entering the job market, someone re-entering the workforce after an unexpected job loss, or ready to pivot your career and rebrand yourself, Cathy shares practical insights and real-life examples to help you not just survive, but thrive. In this episode, you’ll discover how change, even when it’s unwelcome, can open doors to incredible growth and new opportunities. Cathy guides you through actionable steps—like clarifying your value, identifying transferable skills, and boldly updating your professional presence—to help you confidently build your next chapter. Tune in for encouragement, practical strategies, and the tools you need to start fresh, no matter where you are on your journey.

Welcome back to the After Work Entrepreneur Podcast, where corporate professionals learn to transform their side hustles into full-time freedom and fulfillment. I’m your host, Cathy E. Smith—Cathy with a C—and in today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the real reason people buy: emotion. Ever made a purchase you “just had to have”? That’s your emotions running the show! Today, we’ll explore how tapping into your clients’ deepest needs and desires—not just listing features—can make you a more effective, authentic seller. Plus, I’ll share practical tips to help you connect emotionally with your audience, use storytelling that sells transformation, and make sales feel less like selling and more like serving. If you’re ready to understand the true power of emotions in the buying process and take your entrepreneurial journey to the next level, this episode is for you.

Welcome to another episode of My AWEsome Podcast with your host, Cathy E. Smith! In this thought-provoking episode inspired by a message from Dr. Tony Evans, Cathy dives into the world of business branding, pricing, and positioning by using the perfect analogy of pop-up shops versus fine dining experiences. Have you ever thought about what kind of vibe your business gives off before your customers even see your prices? Cathy shares her own experiences walking through Washington D.C., comparing the energetic hustle of pop-up shops to the polished luxury of fine dining, and explains how crucial it is for your pricing to match the experience you deliver. Tune in as she breaks down how perceived value, intentionality, and consistency can make or break your brand, and offers practical reflection points to help you elevate your business — no matter your model. If you’re ready to turn your five-to-nine hustle into your future nine-to-five with clarity and confidence, don’t miss this episode!

In this inspiring episode, your host Cathy E. Smith dives into how you can prepare for your next chapter after a major life transition—whether that's graduating, switching careers, experiencing job loss, or entering retirement. Cathy shares practical, faith-aligned strategies to help you reframe your current moment as a divine opportunity, clarify your core strengths, and explore exciting paths like entrepreneurship, consulting, or discovering a new passion. She also lays out actionable steps for personal growth: from taking skills assessments and enrolling in online courses, to building a powerful personal brand and growing your network. Tune in for a motivating roadmap—and a helpful checklist—to step confidently into your next phase with clarity, purpose, and a community to support your journey!