The Solo Grind
Teresa Schlup, The Original Caffeine Creative
The podcast that shines a light on the raw and real journey of being a solo entrepreneur. Hosted by Teresa Schlup, a one-woman creative go-getter, this podcast is your guide to navigating the ups and downs of building success on your own terms.
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Top 10 The Solo Grind Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best The Solo Grind episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to The Solo Grind for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite The Solo Grind episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Creating an EXPERIENCE on your website with Robyn White
The Solo Grind
11/26/24 • 37 min
In this episode of The Solo Grind, I am have a very special guest with me—Robyn White from RDW Design Studio. Robyn is an incredible web designer and SEO expert. She’s the owner and founder of RDW Design Studio, a strategy-first design studio celebrated for its sophisticated approach to website design. Robyn specializes in providing design and search solutions for interior designers, helping them transform how visitors engage with their websites and step into their next level of success.
One of the fun things about today’s episode is that, on paper, Robyn and I are technically competitors. We’ve even bid on some of the same projects in the past! We however, don’t see it that way. Instead of competition, we’ve built an amazing friendship and a supportive professional relationship.
Today, we’re diving into the topic of creating an experience with your website—something Robyn and I are both incredibly passionate about. Whether you’re designing a website for your business or looking for ways to elevate your online presence, this episode is packed with insights to help you stand out.
To connect with Robyn directly visit her website at https://rdwdesignstudio.com/ or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/rdwdesignstudio/. For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode
If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me...
Website — CaffeineCreative.ioFacebook — Teresa Schlup,The Caffeine CreativeInstagram — The Caffeine CreativeLinkedIn — Teresa SchlupEmail — [email protected]
Please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review the Solo Grind Podcast!
Before You Bring in an Expert, Ask Yourself This…
The Solo Grind
04/29/25 • 24 min
🎧 Episode Summary:
Have you ever hired someone for your business because you felt behind, stuck, or scared of failing? Yeah... me too.
Today, we’re having a real conversation about why hiring from fear never leads where you hope it will—and how to know when you're making decisions from clarity instead.
We’ll talk about what it really means to collaborate with the experts you hire, why trust matters from day one, and how to shift back into confidence when uncertainty creeps in.
If you're feeling stuck, second-guessing everything, or wondering if you're asking too much (or not enough), grab your coffee and hit play.
What I hope you take away from this episode:
☕ How to recognize when fear (not clarity) is steering your hiring decisions.
☕ Why a shaky foundation can sabotage even the best expert relationship.
☕ How to shift your mindset to one of growth rather than fear
☕ Simple questions to ask yourself before hiring anyone new.
☕ Permission to pause, choose love and trust over fear, and move forward with intention.
Links to connect with me...
☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)
Your Dream, Your Business, Your Rules
The Solo Grind
01/07/25 • 22 min
Hey there, my friends! It’s a brand-new year, and I’m so excited to kick off Season Two of The Solo Grind with you. This episode is all about getting clear on what YOU want—your dream, your business, your rules.
I truly believe with all my heart: you don’t have to settle for a life that happens to you. You get to choose. You have the power to create the life and business you want, in a way that fits you. And this month, I’m sharing how to connect with your vision, align your goals with who you want to become. So grab a cup of coffee, tea, or whatever fuels your creative fire, and let’s dig in.
It’s time to get intentional about the year ahead, to build a business you love, and to create the life that feels just right for you. You’ve got this—and I can’t wait to see where 2025 takes us.
Episode Mentions:
Goals & Intentions Workbook >> CLICK HERE FOR YOUR NO STRINGS ATTACHED DOWNLOAD
Season 1, Episode 12: Stop Trying to Fit in and Build a business That Feels Like You!
For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode CLICK HERE!
If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me...
Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (
12/09/24 • 48 min
In this episode of The Solo Grind, I’m joined by my trusted business coach and mentor, Nancy Ganzekaufer. Nancy is a no-nonsense, powerhouse business coach specializing in guiding interior designers and service-based entrepreneurs to build profitable, sustainable businesses. Together, we dive into one of the most critical aspects of running a successful business: pricing.
Nancy shares her expert insights into why underpricing and undervaluing yourself can undermine your success. We explore the mindset shifts needed to confidently charge what you’re worth, the psychology behind pricing, and the importance of setting clear boundaries with clients. You’ll learn practical strategies for handling pricing objections, avoiding the pitfalls of over-explaining, and staying firm in your value.
We also discuss how body language, confidence, and preparation can transform your client interactions, helping you command respect and close sales with ease. Whether you’re struggling to price your services, attract ideal clients, or balance the demands of running a business, this episode is packed with actionable tips and empowering advice to help you take your business to the next level.Nancy's Bio:
Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after Business and Life Coach, Body Language Trainer, Speaker, and Author. Named one of New York's top coaches, Nancy specializes in coaching interior designers with a focus on marketing and sales strategies, helping them maximize their profitability while identifying and serving their ideal clients with confidence.
Through 1:1 coaching and her signature group coaching program, Profit Insiders Academy, Nancy guides her clients to develop the most straightforward path to higher profitability, visibility, and scalability through confident decision making, efficient systems development, and effective communication.
With her no-nonsense coaching style, Nancy has empowered thousands to know and charge their worth and position themselves in their market with authority and authenticity. She enjoys rolling up her sleeves and helping her interior design clients tackle the tough challenges in life and work, transforming them into happier, healthier, more focused professionals.
- Pricing Tool for Interior Designers - https://nancyganzekaufer.com/the-key-pricing-tool/
- Group Coaching - https://nancyganzekaufer.com/profit-insiders-academy-quick-apply/
- 1:1 Coaching - https://nancyganzekaufer.com/business-strategy-session/
- Free Resources - https://nancyganzekaufer.com/free-resources-for-interior-designers/
- Interior Design Business Forum - https://www.facebook.com/groups/interiordesignbusinessforum
Follow Nancy on Social Media:
Where To Go When You Really Need Advice
The Solo Grind
10/01/24 • 15 min
Being a solo entrepreneur can be a wild ride—especially when it comes to making those big decisions. You’re wearing all the hats, juggling CEO duties with admin work, marketing, and everything in between. But when it’s time to make a tough call, who do you turn to for advice?
In this episode, we’ll explore the importance of having the right people in your corner. We’ll talk about whose advice you should probably avoid (hello, unsolicited Facebook advice), and more importantly, how to build your own personal Board of Directors. These are the trusted voices that guide you in different areas of your life and business, even if they don’t know they’re on your board!
What You Will Get From This Episode:☕ The importance of having trusted people to lean on for business advice
☕ Why some advice (especially unsolicited or from social media) should be taken with a grain of salt
☕ How to build your own personal Board of Directors for decision-making support
☕ Why it’s important to find advice that aligns with your goals and values
🎙️ Highlights:☕ (3:57) Avoid the social media “experts”: Not all advice is worth following, especially if it’s from people who don’t run successful businesses themselves.
☕ (5:47) Unsolicited advice isn't always helpful: Friends and family mean well, but if their goals don’t match yours, their advice may not be right for you.
☕ (7:28) Build your own Board of Directors: Surround yourself with people you admire and trust. These people don’t even need to know they’re on your board—just let their wisdom guide you.
☕ (8:03) Diversify your board: Your board can include mentors, friends, family, or even authors and speakers whose work resonates with you.
Action Steps to Build Your Board:Ready to build your own board of directors? Here’s how to get started:
- Reflect on Your Needs
- Identify Your Board Members
- Diversify Your Board
- Seek Out Mentorship
- Use Your Resources
- Andy Andrews’ book, Mastering the Seven Decisions for Success – A great resource for learning how to create your own personal board of directors.
- Jen Sincero and Denise DT – Two of my go-to financial mentors whose books and advice keep me grounded.
If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me...
Website — CaffeineCreative.ioFacebook — Teresa Schlup,The Caffeine CreativeInstagram — The Caffeine CreativeLinkedIn —
Are You Chasing Sales or Building a Business?
The Solo Grind
03/18/25 • 26 min
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode, we’re talking about the two big approaches to marketing—transactional and relationship-driven—and how both can actually work together in your business. I’ll break down the pros and cons of each, why finding the right balance matters, and how to create a customer experience that keeps people coming back.
And let’s not forget the importance of stepping away from the grind. Taking a break isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. Burnout is real, and if you’re constantly chasing the next sale without thinking about long-term relationships, you’re setting yourself up for a never-ending hustle.
So grab your coffee, hit play, and let’s talk about how to market smarter, not harder.
What I hope you take away from this episode:
☕ Transactional marketing focuses on quick sales and revenue.
☕ Relationship marketing is about building long-term connections.
☕ Both marketing strategies can be blended for better results.
☕ Creating memorable experiences enhances customer loyalty.
☕ Trust is a key component in relationship marketing.
☕ Personal touches can turn one-time buyers into repeat clients.
☕ Understanding your business model helps in choosing marketing strategies.
☕ Effective marketing requires a balance between sales and customer experience.
☕ Sustainable success comes from nurturing long-term relationships.
Links to some really cool stuff:
☕ Last Week's Episode: What do you do when all hell breaks loose (and you have a plane ticket in hand!)
☕ My FAVORITE coffee in the world! Rainy Day Coffee Co. https://rainydaycoffee.square.site/
☕ Erin Condren Planners & Notebooks: https://www.erincondren.com/referral/invite/teresaschlup0214/1 (yep this is a referral link, feel free to just go straight to her website if you'd prefer!)
Links to Connect with Me!
☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)
I’ll Just Be Over Here Doing What You Said I Couldn’t Do
The Solo Grind
04/08/25 • 16 min
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Solo Grind, I’m sharing a little truth talk about all the times I’ve been told, “You can’t.” From standing up to bullies on a concrete bench as a kid to launching a business people thought I wasn’t “qualified” to run, I’ve heard it all—and guess what? I did it anyway.
These limitations weren’t always meant to hurt. Most of the time, they came from people who loved me, but were stuck in their own fear. Still, I’ve spent a lifetime proving them wrong—not out of spite, but because I know what I’m capable of (and spoiler alert: success looks real cute on a “can’t”).
So if you’ve ever been underestimated, doubted, or encouraged to play it small—this one’s for you. Let’s talk about quiet confidence, bold moves, and living a life that doesn’t wait for anyone’s permission.
What I hope you get from this episode:
☕ A reminder that someone else’s doubt has nothing to do with your potential.
☕ Encouragement to stop waiting for permission and start moving toward what you want.
☕ Proof that success can be quiet, steady—and incredibly satisfying.
☕ A little boost to trust yourself, even when others don’t get it.
☕ Permission to be bold, do the thing, and let your results speak louder than any “can’t.”
This week's inspirational tune - Can't Have by Pitbull
https://open.spotify.com/track/5vNulf3Z6xUrBzGy5hcFgM?si=614962b6c2454bd6
Links to Connect with Me!
☕ Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
☕ Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
☕ Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative) https://www.facebook.com/thecaffeinecreative
☕ Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative)
☕ LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)
10/29/24 • 29 min
I’m diving deep into a topic that hits home for every solo entrepreneur—how to tell the difference between being busy and being truly productive. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that if we’re constantly working, we’re making progress, but not all activity actually moves the needle forward in our businesses. I break down common time-wasters like obsessing over social media posts, endlessly tweaking your website, or getting lost in busywork that doesn't contribute to your goals.
I also share some personal insights on how I’ve learned to prioritize the tasks that really matter, focusing on building relationships and staying aligned with long-term goals. We all struggle with perfectionism, procrastination in disguise, and distractions from trends, but by recognizing these patterns, we can start to make more intentional choices about how we spend our time. If you’re ready to cut through the noise, stop wasting time, and get back to what really matters, this episode is for you!🎙️ Highlights:
☕ Busy vs. Productive: Learn to differentiate between staying busy and being truly productive.☕ Common Time Wasters: Identify time-wasting tasks like perfecting social media posts, endlessly tweaking your website, and over-researching.☕ Perfectionism vs. Mastery: Understand the difference between striving for perfection and focusing on mastery through action and improvement.☕ Procrastination in Disguise: Spot tasks that feel productive but are actually delaying important work.☕ Building Relationships: Prioritize real connections with clients over relying solely on tech and automation.☕ Time-Wasting Habits: Assess whether you're falling into common time traps like chasing trends or constantly planning.☕ Action Steps: Focus on high-impact tasks that align with your goals and drive real business growth.Resources Mentioned:
Letting Go of Struggle & Embracing Life's Journey
The Solo Grind
02/14/25 • 32 min
In this special birthday episode of The Solo Grind, I am celebrating with my best friend Crystal Loveless Nerpel, who has just launched her book 'Loving Your Home'. We will be sharing more about love, self-care, and the importance of creating a nurturing environment both at home and in business.
There is so much goodness in this episode including the significance of letting go of struggles, embracing the journey of life, and the power of perspective in shaping one's experiences.
Plus, Crystal shares insights from her book, emphasizing the connection between one's home and mindset, and the importance of celebrating personal achievements.
Mentions in this episode include:
S1 Ep4: The Power of Pivoting with Special Guest Crystal Nerpel
Crystal's Website: https://crystalnerpel.com/
For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode CLICK HERE!
If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me...
Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)
Falling back IN LOVE with your Business
The Solo Grind
02/11/25 • 40 min
🎧 Episode Summary:
In this episode, I’m getting real about something we don’t talk about enough—falling out of love with your business. We all start with passion and excitement, but somewhere along the way, things can start feeling more like a grind than a joy. So, what happened? And more importantly, how do we fix it?
I’m diving into the big reasons business owners lose their spark—feeling stuck with no growth, battling imposter syndrome, and dealing with clients who drain the life out of you. But don’t worry, this isn’t just a vent session—I’m also sharing practical ways to reignite your passion, set better boundaries, and bring back the joy in your business. Because let’s be honest—if you’re not loving what you do, something needs to change. Let’s talk about how to make that happen.
Key Highlights
☕ Focusing on love in business is essential for success.
☕ Negativity often overshadows the positive aspects of our lives.
☕ Imposter syndrome is common among entrepreneurs and can be managed.
☕ Not every client is a good fit for your business.
☕ It's okay to pivot and change direction in your business.
☕ Firing problematic clients can restore joy in your work.
For detailed Show Notes and the transcript for this episode visit https://caffeinecreative.io/the-solo-grind-podcast/
If you would like to connect with me outside of this podcast here is where you’ll find me...
Book a Consult HERE! (https://caffeinecreative.io/consult/)
Book a Coffee Chat HERE! (https://hello.dubsado.com/public/appo...)
Website — CaffeineCreative.io (http://caffeinecreative.io/)
Facebook — Teresa Schlup, The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative )
Instagram — The Caffeine Creative (@thecaffeinecreative )
LinkedIn — Teresa Schlup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaschlup/)
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FAQ
How many episodes does The Solo Grind have?
The Solo Grind currently has 33 episodes available.
What topics does The Solo Grind cover?
The podcast is about Entrepreneur, Entrepreneurship, Solo, Podcasts and Business.
What is the most popular episode on The Solo Grind?
The episode title 'Your Dream, Your Business, Your Rules' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on The Solo Grind?
The average episode length on The Solo Grind is 28 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Solo Grind released?
Episodes of The Solo Grind are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of The Solo Grind?
The first episode of The Solo Grind was released on Sep 18, 2024.
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