The Debt-Free CEO Podcast

Today we're talking about ways to structure your freelancing business so that you're confident in your financial power. This episode is really going to talk about what are some things in your freelancing business that you can actually do and implement right now or moving forward that are really going to help your overall financial situation. I love freelancing because it provides so much flexibility and power. I feel like it's talked about enough in the time freedom, home freedom, flexible work from home, that type, but it's not always explained in layman's terms, so to speak, on how you can really use and structure this business to be confident in your overall financial power. So that's really what I want to talk about today.  In this episode I share:Charging Your Worth and Setting Boundaries Importance of Contracts and Long-Term Agreements Moving Away From Hourly Work to Project-Based Creative Pricing Strategies for Virtual Assistants Confidence and Clear Communication in Finances Visit the Show Notes:35. How to Structure Your Freelancing Business to Achieve Financial Confidence Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Episode Mentioned:34. Take Back Your Financial Power for Better Financial Security Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__ Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode of Freelancing Your Way to Financial Freedom, I share practical steps for achieving financial independence as a freelancer. I emphasize mindset shifts, disciplined actions, and strategic planning for long-term financial security. We discuss budgeting, debt reduction, increasing income through freelancing, and wise saving and investing. I also encourage developing a positive money mindset, seeking financial education, and building a supportive community.  In this episode I share:Assessing Your Financial Situation Setting Clear Financial Goals Reducing and Managing Debt Seeking Professional Financial Advice Setting Healthy Boundaries with Money Visit the Show Notes:34. Take Back Your Financial Power for Better Financial Security Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Don’t Miss Last Week’s Post:33. Things I Wish I Had Done in My First 2 Years of Business + Why Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__ Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

I'm excited to give you this episode because today we're going to talk about things that I learned or wish I would have done differently in my first one to two years of business. I really want to share this with you because if you can learn from these little tidbits of information that I'm going to give you, then you can set yourself up better financially than if you have to learn these the long way or the hard way like I did.  In this episode I share:Setting Clear Pricing and Contract Terms Tracking Key Performance Indicators for Growth Essential Tools for Starting a Business Establishing Clear Boundaries with Clients Persistence and Authenticity in Business Visit the Show Notes:33. Things I Wish I Had Done in My First 2 Years of Business + Why Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__ Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode I highlight the importance of defining financial freedom on your own terms and offer guidance on leveraging freelancing as a pathway to achieving it. By sharing practical tips, personal anecdotes, and encouragement, I hope to empower you to pursue your vision of financial independence through freelancing. Because let’s face it…the benefits of flexibility, control, and goal setting in this career path are worth it! I will provide you with thought-provoking questions for you to consider as you define what financial freedom means to you. In this episode I share:What is financial freedom? Reflecting on financial freedom goals Developing a plan for financial freedom Leveraging freelancing for financial freedom Impact of freelancing on financial situation Visit the Show Notes:32. What Does Financial Freedom Actually Mean and How Can You Get There? Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @meganmendez__ Website - meganmendez.com Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Welcome to Freelancing Your Way to Financial Freedom, the podcast that's changing lives one freelance gig at a time. Hey friends, I'm Megan, your host, and I'm so excited to welcome you to our community of women and moms on a mission to achieve financial freedom.  Whether you're juggling parenthood, seeking to escape the confines of a traditional job, or dreaming of building your business empire, this podcast is for you.  In this podcast, you'll hear about how to build personal and business foundations. I'll help you manage the application of your business so that you can achieve financial security, leave the classroom and get out of debt. If that's what you want. It is my goal to see every mom and business owner achieve their definition of true financial freedom in their life. Because let's be honest, it really does look different for everyone. And that is okay.  You will walk away from this podcast, learning more about freelancing, how to leverage your freelancing income in your finances, and how to use this business to become financially free. If you're ready to get started, let's get started.

In this episode of The Debt-Free CEO Podcast, I chat with Cassandra Rosa, a certified coach, healer, and intuitive business coach. Cassandra shares her journey from feeling unfulfilled in a traditional career to finding her passion in the personal development world. She discusses the financial challenges she faced when starting her business and how she overcame them by tapping into her intuitive guidance system. Cassandra also delves into her approach to helping clients find fulfillment in their lives and businesses, emphasizing the importance of clarity, mindset, and celebrating small wins.  In this episode I share:Transition from traditional schooling to the personal development world Financial challenges in business The importance of finding a balance in financial decision-making Helping clients achieve fulfillment in business Techniques for seeking clarity in business decisions Visit the Show Notes:31. Finding Fulfillment in Business and Life with Cassandra Rosa Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Cassandra: Instagram - @cassandrarosaa Website - cassandrarosa.com Podcast - The Fulfilled Female Entrepreneur Book - Now What? Create the Clarity to Achieve Your Dreams Connect with Megan:Instagram - @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode of the Debt-Free CEO Podcast, Melissa, the founder of Not Another VA, discusses her journey from a history teacher to a successful virtual assistant business owner specializing in email marketing. She shares insights on managing finances, transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship, and the importance of budgeting. Melissa highlights budgeting strategies for personal and business expenses, investing in education accounts, and achieving financial goals. She emphasizes the benefits of early budgeting to reduce financial stress, strengthen relationships, and secure a better financial future. In this episode we share:Transitioning from Overspending to Budgeting Implementing Budgeting in Business Using Unexpected Money Wisely Advice on Setting Goals and Budgeting Visit the Show Notes:30. The Power of Budgeting As a Business Owner with Melissa from Not Another VA Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Melissa:Instagram - @notanotherva Website - notanothervirtualassistant.com YNAB budgeting app Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode, I dive into the importance of quarterly planning for both your business and personal finances. The significance of understanding your numbers helps you make informed decisions and achieve your financial goals. From calculating profit percentages to projecting future earnings, I provide valuable insights and actionable steps to empower you in managing your finances effectively. Tune in as I share practical tips and encourage you to take control of their financial well-being.  In this episode I share:The concept of quarterly financial planning for both personal and business finances The value of mapping out 12 weeks to achieve what could be done in 12 months The significance of knowing where money is being spent and how much is coming in The benefits of planning for future business and personal expenses Insight into profit percentage and its significance in financial planning and goal setting Visit the Show Notes:29. How to Quarterly Plan Your Finances  Related Episodes:21. Reflecting on 2023: Lessons Learned and How to Plan for 2024 The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Welcome back to The Debt-Free CEO Podcast. In this episode, we're joined by the incredible Jamie Rohrbaugh, a corporate leader, entrepreneur, and multi-passionate woman who truly embodies the principles we celebrate here on the show. Jamie is not just an accounting analyst for a global company; she's a wellness consultant, co-founder of a networking organization, and a talented social media content creator and graphic designer. She joins us to discuss her journey from a negative bank account to paying for college in cash, building a house, and creating a diverse portfolio of multiple income streams that have allowed her to live debt-free. In this episode we share:Jamie's starting point with a negative bank account and self-funding college emergency expenses and strategies for paying off debt Leveraging Multiple Income Streams Financial Management and Investments Jamie's belief in the necessity of balancing work with personal passions The importance of being proactive rather than waiting for a perfect time to secure one's financial future Visit the Show Notes:28. Achieving Financial Stability through Multiple Income Streams with Jamie Rohrbaugh Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Jamie: Follow on Instagram @jamrohr93 Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode of The Debt-Free CEO Podcast, I share valuable insights on how to generate an extra $2,000 by spring break. I outline practical steps for finding freelance opportunities and setting your rates, emphasizing the importance of choosing services that align with your skills and passions. My approach offers a way to increase your income without relying on MLM or direct sales. Tune in for actionable strategies and check the show notes for a free training on freelancing to kickstart your journey to financial freedom. In this episode I share:How to evaluating your existing skills and interests Determine appropriate rates for different types of services Creating package prices to offer clients Breaking down the earning goal into manageable client targets Visit the Show Notes:27. Learn How to Make $2K by Spring Break! Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Don’t Miss Last Week’s Post:26. From Education to Entrepreneurship: Sadie Snedeker's Virtual Assisting Story Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode of The Debt Free CEO Podcast, I sit down for a chat with Sadie Snedeker, a former teacher turned virtual assistant. Sadie shares her journey into freelancing, her motivations for wanting to pursue this part-time endeavor, and her experience in finding and working with clients. She discusses her approach to setting goals, overcoming challenges, and prioritizing her debt repayment alongside her freelance income. You’ll also get valuable insights from Sadie on the importance of staying focused on personal goals, maintaining a positive mindset, and understanding that success looks different for everyone. Tune in to hear Sadie's unique perspective and journey in the world of freelancing, and gain inspiration for your own path to financial independence. In this episode I share:Work-life balance and schedule Financial goals and debt repayment Sadie’s approach to finding clients through Facebook groups and networking Virtual assistant success and Business Growth Visit the Show Notes:26. From Education to Entrepreneurship: Sadie Snedeker's Virtual Assisting Story Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Sadie:Follow on Instagram @mercedessnedeker_va Don’t Miss Last Week’s Post:25. How Freelancing Could Be Your Ticket to a Debt-Free Life Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In today's episode, I dive into the world of freelancing and virtual assisting, revealing how these avenues can pave the way to debt freedom. As someone who has had my fair share of side gigs, I want to uncover the potential for earning an extra $500 to $2,000 a month through freelancing. This episode highlights the wide array of tasks freelancers can undertake, from general VA duties to specialized services like email marketing and graphic design. I also break down the strategic approach to setting rates and structuring freelancing packages to achieve financial goals. If you have never heard of freelancing, or have and want to know how it could work for you, this episode is a must-listen! In this episode I share:Various tasks and skills that can be freelanced Earning potential and pricing in freelancing Strategically leveraging freelancing income for debt payoff Leveraging personal network and community for freelancing success Visit the Show Notes:25. How Freelancing Could Be Your Ticket to a Debt-Free Life Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode, we delve into the topic of sinking funds and how they can benefit you financially. Sinking funds serve as a means to save money over time for unexpected expenses, such as vet bills, car repairs, medical expenses, and annual subscriptions. It is important to note that sinking funds are separate from emergency funds, which are designed to cover living expenses in case of job loss. By incorporating sinking funds into your financial plan, you can effectively plan and prepare for unforeseen expenses without having to dip into their regular budget. In this episode I share:What is a sinking fund? Practical strategies for sinking funds to save money How to escape debt with these funds How to use sinking funds to help you get to financial freedom Visit the Show Notes:24. Sinking Funds: What they are and how they work for you and your budget! Resources:Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode, we discuss the power of a zero-based budget for debt payoff. I explain how to create a zero-based budget and emphasize the importance of setting savings goals and managing high-interest debts. Mindset and self-compassion are key factors in successful budgeting.  Check out previous episodes for more resources and download my free printable budget template to start your journey to financial freedom. Let's achieve our goals together in 2024. In this episode I share:Understanding the concept of a zero-based budget Setting boundaries on unnecessary expenses to stay on budget The importance of daily budget check-ins and tracking expenses The benefits of zero-based budgeting for debt payoff Visit the Show Notes:23. What is a Zero Based Budget? Related Episodes:14. Debt Repayment Strategies: Debt Avalanche Method vs. Debt Snowball Method 22. Money Mindset and Strategy with Jen Paterson Resources:Free Budget Template Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In this episode, we discuss Jen's journey in creating Dollar Divas, a judgment-free space for women to learn about money. We emphasize the importance of mindset and strategy in managing finances, particularly as a female entrepreneur. We share personal experiences and insights, highlighting the significance of efficient systems and automation for entrepreneurs. We talk about reframing negative thoughts about money and aligning actions with beliefs for manifesting debt-free financial freedom. Lastly, we stress the importance of paying attention to finances and offer resources for improving financial situations. In this episode we share:Empowering women to be financially comfortable and savvy The importance of systems for business owners The interdependence of mindset and strategy for financial freedom The impact of mindset on effective financial strategies and overcoming challenges Breaking free from the hustle and achieving financial control Common challenges for female entrepreneurs and mindset shifts The importance of paying attention to finances Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode22 Resources:Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Jen: Instagram - @jenpaterson.biz Website - www.dollardivas.org “50 Money Moves to Level Up Your Financial Game Today” Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Welcome back to The Debt-Free CEO Podcast! In this episode, we reflect on the ups and downs of 2023 and set our sights on the goals and plans for 2024. I share tips on creating dream boards, evaluating revenue, managing expenses, and planning for financial success. Whether you're a business owner or not, these insights can help you make progress towards your financial goals. So grab a pen and paper, tune in, and get ready to make 2024 your best year yet! In this episode I share:How having a dream board can help you set and visualize your goals Comparing numbers from previous years Planning ahead for unexpected expenses The ways that starting a business can add additional monthly income Questions to ask yourself when planning for 2024 Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode21 Resources:Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Today, we're discussing the realities of spending and finances during the holiday season. The fall and last three months of the year can be hectic and draining on both your schedule and bank account. However, I want to assure you that you don't have to buy everyone a gift during Christmas. You have the permission to prioritize your own financial well-being and not feel obligated to give gifts to every family member. The holidays are about being with loved ones, not excessive gift-giving. If you can't afford to give everyone a present, it's perfectly okay to save your money and prioritize your own financial stability. Remember, your family and friends will understand and appreciate your decision to take care of yourself. Don't let societal expectations dictate your financial decisions during the holiday season. In this episode I share:Permission to not feel the need to buy everyone in your family a gift Planning ahead for traveling Using a shopping list to help you over buy and over spend on things you don’t need How to save for the holidays year round  Using a Sinking Fund to help you save for the holidays ahead of time Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode20/ Resources:Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Don’t Miss Last Week’s Post:Ep. 18 - Prioritizing Profit Over Revenue in Your Online Business Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

In today's episode, we have bookkeeper, Annie Hillman. Annie is here to share some invaluable insights and strategies for business owners who are looking to become more financially savvy. She shares her thoughts on understanding income and expenses, provides resources for navigating financial regulations, and offers tips for budgeting and planning for inconsistent income.  In this episode we share:Understanding income and expenses in a business Transitioning from one business to multiple clients Keeping personal expenses separate from business expenses Recommended resources for tax and sales tax information Dealing with inconsistent income Budgeting and financial planning and overcoming financial hurdles Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode19 Resources:Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Tax Resources:Avalara TaxJar Connect with Annie: Instagram - @1428financial Website - www.1428financial.com Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/

Today's episode delves into the crucial topic of prioritizing profit over revenue in your online business. We discuss how this shift can lead you to financial freedom and the path to becoming debt-free. I want to emphasize the importance of understanding that increasing profit doesn't always require increasing revenue. I’ll guide you through pricing strategies, tracking business numbers, and making informed decisions that will scale your business while also achieving your financial goals.  In this episode I share:Significance of focusing on profit instead of revenue Practical strategies to increase profit margins and maximize take-home income Identifying unnecessary expenses and reevaluating pricing structures Pricing strategies to increase profitability Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode18 Resources:Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Yes/No Flowchart Book your FREE 15 minute Clarity Call Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/ Mentioned in this episode: Scale, Grow, & Go Debt Free in 7 Weeks Join the Scale, Grow, & Go Debt Free Waitlist - https://meganmendez.com/scale-grow-go

In today's episode, we have a special guest, Branda Villacob, a copywriter and email marketing expert who shares her insights on maintaining consistent income as a freelancer. We dive into Branda's journey as a former teacher turned solopreneur and how she built her successful freelancing business. We discuss the importance of having a side business while still teaching, saving money, and the mindset shift needed to transition out of the classroom. Branda also shares her experiences with the challenges and growing pains of running a business, particularly the plateau with income and the importance of understanding your worth. If you're a freelancer or aspiring freelance entrepreneur, this episode is packed with valuable tips and advice to help you maintain consistent income.  In this episode we share:The importance of having a side business while still teaching, saving money, and the mindset shift needed to transition out of the classroom The challenges and growing pains of running a business Ways to have consistent income as a freelancer Visit the Show Notes:https://meganmendez.com/episode17/ Resources:Start your digital marketing business today Ditch the 9-5 and Go Debt-Free Finances as a Freelancer: How to pay yourself monthly Free Budget Template Free Training: How to Start Your Freelancing Business to go Debt-Free Passion to Profit and On to Debt-Free Workbook Connect with Branda:Instagram - @therelevantcollective Website - www.therelevantcollective.com Don’t Miss Last Week’s Post:Ep. 16 - Debt, Saving, Investing - Which Comes First? Connect with Megan:Follow on Instagram @thedebtfreeceo Website - meganmendez.com Join The Debt-Free CEO FB Community - The Debt-Free CEO Community Email - info@meganmendez.com Pinterest - pinterest.com/meganmendez__/