Advertise on podcast: The Coaching Edge: A Business Building Podcast

This week I'm doing something a little different — I have a guest on the podcast, which doesn't happen very often around here. Lauren Balterman is a psychology-driven brand strategist, creative director, and positioning expert who helps experienced women turn their expertise into a brand that people recognize, trust, and hire. With 15 years of experience in psychology, leadership, and entrepreneurship, Lauren blends human behavior, brand strategy, and creative direction to help experts become known for how they think — not just what they do. Lauren and I had a great conversation about what she calls your "psychological signature" (what I've always called your special sauce) — the unique combination of your experiences, beliefs, and worldview that sets you apart from every other coach out there. We talked about why clear messaging isn't enough anymore, how to know if your brand is blending in, and practical steps you can take to start showing up as the real you. If you've ever felt like your content could have been written by anyone, or you're struggling to articulate what makes you different, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: What a psychological signature is and how to uncover yours The difference between messaging and positioning (and why you need both) Why "be authentic" advice falls flat — and what to do instead Lauren's signature stance concept — and examples from Tony Robbins and Brené Brown Our similar 2020 pivot stories and why that year changed everything The five Ps: positioning, process, proof, persona, and presence How to audit your content to see if you're blending in Why testimonials need to connect to your process, not just say you're great How to use AI without sounding generic Permission to market your way — not someone else's formula Resources & Links: Take Lauren's free Hidden Expert quiz - https://laurennicole.life/quiz Find Lauren on Instagram: @laurennicolebalterman

In 2020, I doubled my rates — and then doubled my client load. That year, I roughly tripled my income. I was terrified it wouldn't work. I almost talked myself out of it. But it turned out to be one of the best business decisions I've ever made. In this episode, I'm sharing the full story — what led to the decision, what I actually did, why it worked, and what you should consider before raising your own rates. This isn't about arbitrary price increases or "just believing in yourself." It's about aligning your pricing with your value and building a business that's actually sustainable. In this episode, I cover: The backstory: why my rates had barely moved in nine years What I actually did: the rebrand, the new offers, the podcast, the price increase What happened: doubling clients, tripling income, fully booked for the first time Why higher prices often lead to more clients, not fewer What this isn't: I'm not telling you to double your rates tomorrow Five things to consider before raising your rates Why your rates should go up over time — and what happens if they don't The hidden cost of undercharging Resources & Links: The Business Building Boutique: www.wendymccallum.com/bbb $27 Pricing Your 1:1 Coaching Masterclass: HERE Mini-Offers and Free Coaching Resources HERE

What separates coaches who build sustainable businesses from those who don't? After working with over 75 coaches in the BBB — plus countless others over the years — I've noticed real patterns. Not motivational platitudes. Actual differences in how coaches approach this work. In this episode, I'm sharing what I've observed in the coaches who made it, and what I've seen in the ones who quit. Some of it might be hard to hear, but I'd rather be honest with you than sell you a fantasy. In this episode, I cover: Why realism is a competitive advantage in this industry The 7 things I've noticed in coaches who succeed Why business or professional background helps (and what to do if you don't have it) The importance of having a financial plan for the business-building stage Why the coaches who make it are willing to have hard conversations What "close to the money" means and why it matters The trap of over-investing in certifications Why community is strategic, not just nice to have What I've noticed in coaches who quit Questions to ask yourself if you're stuck Resources & Links: The Business Building Boutique: www.wendymccallum.com/bbb $27 Pricing Your 1:1 Coaching Masterclass: HERE Free download: Launch Fundamentals Checklist: HERE