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What happens when the definition of success you’ve been working toward no longer feels like the one you want? In this episode of Profitable Women, I’m joined by James Begley, founder of BrightBurst Strategies, to talk about his transition from corporate America into entrepreneurship and the identity shifts that can come when you start questioning what you actually want your life and work to look like. James and I have lived very different lives, and our relationship has given both of us a front-row seat to another way of approaching work, responsibility, freedom, and success. This conversation is about getting curious about the paths we’ve followed, the definitions we’ve inherited, and what becomes possible when we give ourselves permission to choose differently. We’ll explore: Redefining success beyond salary, titles, and career growthThe identity shift that happens when you leave a role that has defined youChoosing work you genuinely enjoy, even when it changes the financial equationThe difference between doing what you want and doing what you think you’re supposed to doWhat our very different life experiences have taught each of usTrusting yourself enough to explore a different path Success doesn’t have to look the way it used to. Sometimes the next chapter starts by slowing down long enough to ask: If I truly had the choice, would I still choose this? Connect with James: Follow on Instagram @brightburst_strategiesCheck out his website Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://hansenllc.net/ Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

What if growth doesn’t always look like confidence, clarity, and forward momentum? Sometimes, it looks like noticing the moment you want to shut down, retreat, or fall back into an old pattern and choosing to respond just a little differently. In this episode, Sheila shares from the messy middle of a difficult week. Rather than waiting until everything felt polished and resolved, she reflects on the patterns that surfaced, including her tendency to freeze when things feel uncomfortable or overwhelming. This conversation expands the idea of capacity beyond time, energy, and money. It explores the internal capacity required to hold growth, navigate discomfort, and step into a new version of yourself. We’ll explore: How protective patterns can keep us feeling safe while also keeping us stuckWhat the freeze response can look like in everyday lifeThe power of becoming curious instead of judging your reactionHow to honor what your body needs without completely retreatingWhy growth often requires us to stretch our identityHow small changes in the way we respond can help us reclaim our powerThe connection between personal growth and how we lead our businesses You don’t have to immediately become a completely different version of yourself. You may not be operating as version 2.0 yet, but choosing to show up as version 1.1 still matters. The next time you feel yourself wanting to shrink or avoid something, pause and ask: How do I want to show up in this moment? That small moment of awareness may be the beginning of expanding your capacity to hold what comes next. Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://hansenllc.net/ Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

What does your business actually need to financially support the life, growth, and opportunities you want to create? In this episode of Profitable Women, we’re continuing our conversation about capacity by looking at financial capacity and why it’s about so much more than simply asking, “Can I afford it?” We’ll explore: Why financial capacity goes beyond revenueHow profit, cash flow, reserves, taxes, owner pay, and predictable revenue all impact what your business can holdWhy “Can I afford it?” can quickly become an emotional question instead of a financial oneHow your numbers can give you information without becoming a judgment or report cardWhy financial capacity creates more choice and less urgencyHow money, time, and energy all work togetherUsing your current numbers as a starting point, not a limitation on what’s possibleAsking, “What needs to become true?” instead of assuming the answer is no Your current financial capacity doesn’t determine what’s possible for your future. It simply shows you where you are today—and the gap between where you are and where you want to go becomes your roadmap. The goal isn’t to build more capacity just so you can cram more into your life. It’s to intentionally build capacity for the things that matter: creativity, impact, wealth, rest, family, and the life you’re building outside of your business. Because ultimately, your business is the vessel. It’s not the destination. Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://hansenllc.net/ Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

What if the way you work isn’t just about how much time you have, but how much energy you have available? In this episode of our capacity series, we’re talking about energetic capacity and what it looks like to build a business that works with your natural energy instead of constantly asking you to push through it. We’ll explore: Why time and energy aren’t the same resourceHow your energy naturally shifts from day to day and season to seasonWhy paying attention to your body can change the way you workHow feminine cycles can offer insight into your energyThe role Human Design can play in understanding how you’re wired to workWhy rest and recovery are part of your business strategyHow to become more curious about what gives you energy and what drains it Instead of assuming you should be able to show up with the same energy every day, what if you started paying attention to the patterns that are already there? Your energy is a resource in your business. And the more you understand how to work with it, the more intentionally you can decide where that resource goes. Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://hansenllc.net/ Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

What if you’re not actually behind? What if the math around your time is simply wrong? In this episode of our capacity series, we’re talking about time capacity and what it looks like to build a schedule around the fact that you’re a human—not a machine. We’ll explore: Why “I’m behind” isn’t always trueHow urgency contributes to overwhelmWhy knowing how long your work actually takes mattersThe importance of transition time and space in your calendarHow your schedule can impact your nervous systemWhy empty space isn’t wasted capacityHow to create room for future growth Instead of asking, “Do I have capacity for that?” consider asking: “What would need to change for me to have capacity for that?” Because the goal isn’t to squeeze more productivity out of every available minute. It’s to build a business you can actually sustain. Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://hansenllc.net/ Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

Welcome Back to Profitable Women: Let’s Talk About Capacity Profitable Women is back. After taking some time away, I’m returning with a new perspective on business growth and a question I’ve been thinking about a lot: Do we have the capacity to hold what we say we want? In this episode, I share what I’ve been exploring over the past year—from systems and structure to time, energy, finances, and nervous system safety. We talk about: Why belief matters, but isn’t the whole equationHow systems and structure can actually create more freedomThe difference between time, energetic, and financial capacityWhy growth isn’t always about adding moreHow understanding your numbers can create more safety and confidenceWhy your current capacity doesn’t have to be your future capacity Maybe the question isn’t, “Do I have the capacity for what I want?” Maybe it’s, “What capacity do I need to build to hold what I want?” This is the direction we’ll be exploring in the next chapter of Profitable Women—money, profit, pricing, and cash flow, alongside the time, energy, systems, and support required to build a business that truly supports your life. Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

As the year winds down, I find myself reflecting deeply, prompting a heartfelt decision to pause the Profitable Women podcast temporarily. This isn't a goodbye, but honoring the season I’m in, allowing for rest, reflection, and clarity. I'm stepping into a season where I can savor the last moments of having my children at home before the season shifts again. Thank you for being part of this journey, for your unwavering support, and for growing alongside me. Until the next season reveals itself, take care of yourself, honor your season, and continue building a life and business that feels authentically yours. In this episode, I cover: An acknowledgment of the need for rest, reflection, and a chance to honor the season I’m inThe importance of aligning our lives and businesses with our intuition and natural seasonsMy heartfelt gratitude for you being part of this journey with me, for growing together, and for allowing me to share this space Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/honoring-the-season Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Millionaire MindsetLearn more about our Services

In today’s episode, I welcome Ellie Steinbrink, a personal branding expert and stylist who empowers female entrepreneurs through the lens of style. With a background in psychology, marketing, and branding, Ellie helps women develop a personal style that feels authentic and truly supports their professional brand. We dive into the connection between personal style, self-trust, and empowerment. Ellie shares thoughtful insights on moving beyond the societal expectations that often shape how women feel they “should” show up. She offers practical guidance on embracing vulnerability and shifting from performance to identity. Throughout our conversation, we talk about how aligning your appearance with your goals can strengthen confidence, especially in public speaking and representing your brand. Ellie’s story is a beautiful reminder of the power of authenticity and self-expression in entrepreneurship. Whether you’re transitioning from corporate life or redefining your personal brand, this episode is full of wisdom and encouragement. In this episode, we cover: How Ellie’s unique background shapes her approach to empowering women through personal style, emphasizing the power of stepping into your authentic selfPractical tips on how women can leverage personal style as a powerful tool for self-representation, especially in high-stakes environments like speaking engagementsHow embracing an identity-focused approach can lead to lasting changes and a more authentic, fulfilling life Connect with Ellie: Follow on Instagram @style.decodedFollow on LinkedInCheck out her websiteListen to her podcast Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/personal-style-as-a-business-strategy Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Makenna Campbell, founder of Harmony Media, as she shares her story of starting a business while still in college. Makenna takes us back to her roots in agribusiness, where she originally planned for a career in sales, until a pivotal internship at a small co-op opened the door to video content and storytelling in agriculture. With no prior experience, she leaned into curiosity, taught herself video production through online resources, and began creating meaningful content for local farmers and events. We talk about the early fears that tend to show up, especially worrying about what others might think, and how moving through those moments allows us to share our gifts more freely. We also discuss the practical side of building a business in college, including the unexpected learning curve of managing taxes and the importance of preparing as success begins to grow. From balancing social media work with financial planning to trusting her instincts, Makenna reminds us of the power of authenticity and the flexibility that entrepreneurship can bring. In this episode, we cover: How a college internship led to Makenna starting a business in collegeThe unexpected challenges that come with entrepreneurship, such as initial fears about what others will think, and the reality of managing taxes for a businessWhy authenticity is critical to sustainable business growthThe freedom and flexibility that come with owning a business, particularly the ability to adapt operations to life's changing seasons Connect with Makenna: Follow on Instagram @harmonymedia_Follow on FacebookCheck out her website Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/starting-a-business-in-college Resources & Links: Episode 72: Building a Sustainable Business with Profit Shift: Makenna Campbell’s StoryExplore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

In today's episode, I am joined by Janet Berry-Johnson, a CPA turned financial educator and daily money manager. She shares her journey from traditional accounting to launching Firefly Financial Organizing in 2024. Janet and I talk about the complexities of money mindset among the aging generation and the hurdles in discussing finances with adult children. We also discuss the reluctance of parents to open up about their financial situations and the prevalent feelings of shame and guilt around financial literacy. Janet's approach to balancing expertise in financial management and personal priorities offers valuable lessons for focusing on what truly matters in both business and life. In this episode, we cover: How the rise of AI in writing inspired a new calling toward helping families manage their aging parents' financesThe hesitations some parents face in opening up about their finances to their adult children, and the pervasive feelings of shame and guilt associated with financial illiteracyThe critical role of financial planning, especially in preparing for the eventual passing of a parent Connect with Janet: Follow on Instagram @fireflyfinancialorganizingFollow on FacebookCheck out her website Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/janet-berry-johnson Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit Shiftoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

Today, we have a very special episode with my kids. We're doing an exercise that we typically do at the dinner table every night called "flower and fart" for the day. It's our chance to do a little temperature check on what went well for the day, what we enjoyed, and what brought joy or excitement. And then we have farts, those less pleasant, maybe a little more on the negative side, for the day. So we go around the table and share our flowers and farts for the day. Today, the kids are sharing their flower and fart of mom owning a business. In this episode, I cover: A special family exercise where we share the best and worst parts of our day, called flowers and fartsThe kids give us their honest opinion of entrepreneurship, sharing both the joyful flowers and the challenging farts that come with having a mom who runs her own businessOur sincere Thanksgiving wishes to all our listeners Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/flowers-and-farts Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

In today's episode, I am joined by Ariel Panowicz, a talented photographer and creative director from Omaha, Nebraska, who shares her inspiring journey in the creative field. Ariel's work is renowned for its vibrant portrayal of people and places, finding beauty in ordinary moments and transforming them into extraordinary memories. She discusses her passion for creating community, which led her to establish Luli's Creative House, a dynamic, community-focused space dedicated to empowering individuals through events and photo shoots. Hear how Ariel's innovative approach to photography emphasizes finding beauty in the mundane and challenges conventional notions of perfection, encouraging us all to find beauty in the overlooked details of life. As both a mother and business owner, Ariel opens up about the importance of self-forgiveness and prioritizing what truly matters in both family and business life. We also discuss how authenticity can attract the right community and lead to personal fulfillment, and reflect on the valuable lessons our children learn from witnessing our pursuits. In this episode, we cover: How Ariel's passion for creating community led to the creation of Luli's Creative House, a space dedicated to empowering individuals through unique events and stunning photo shootsThe challenges of juggling a business while raising a familyThe necessity of finding beauty in the mundane and the importance of self-forgiveness and prioritizationWhy authenticity is key in attracting the right audience and achieving genuine fulfillment Connect with Ariel: Follow on Instagram @arielpanowiczFollow on Facebook Learn more about Luli’s: Follow on Instagram @lulicreativehouseFollow on FacebookCheck out the website Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/finding-beauty-and-creating-community Resources & Links: The Moth podcastExplore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

In this episode, we're diving into something really close to my heart: dealing with burnout in entrepreneurship. I'm learning so much more about energy, moons, astrology, and how that energy plays into this. This year, specifically 2025 going into 2026, there is a transition to shedding and letting go of what's no longer serving us, so that in 2026, we can take action on what's really meant for us. I'm wondering whether there is a correlation between this burnout topic coming up now, as people are entering or learning to do this shedding and moving towards a more aligned, more sustainable business going forward. I invite you to join me; let's learn about this evolution together! In this episode, I cover: The intriguing influence of energy, astrology, and personal evolution in shaping our business journeysHow the burnout phase can affect us deeply, particularly in service-based industries where our identity is closely tied to our workThe question of whether there are clients or offers that it's time to let go of or shed for the possibility of what's coming Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/time-to-shed-burnout Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

I'm thrilled to welcome one of my longtime clients, Courtney Otte, to the podcast today. Courtney is a powerhouse juggling life as a mom of three young kids, a military wife, and the creative force behind Modern Hive Interior Design in Omaha, Nebraska. In this episode, we dive into how Courtney built a luxury design firm all while growing a family amidst military deployments. We chat about the importance of adapting to life's various seasons, the art of effective delegation, and why adaptability is essential for navigating the dual roles of a business owner and a parent. In this episode, we cover: The necessity of adapting to life's ever-changing seasons and mastering delegation to ensure both your family and business flourishThe power of understanding business and personal life cycles, which can lead to confident decision-making and sustainable growthHow Courtney's personal growth and professional achievements, like building a thriving design firm, are deeply interconnected Connect with Courtney: Follow on Instagram @themodernhiveFollow on FacebookCheck out her website Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/solo-designer-to-ceo Resources & Links: ClickUpExplore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services

In this episode, I'm sharing what I learned from stepping away from my business. You'll hear how this break revealed aspects that were misaligned with my values and my plans for integrating more regular downtime into my schedule. The time away reinforced the importance of trusting my team and the systems we've built, demonstrating that my business can thrive even when I need to step away. I discovered that stepping away didn't mean compromising on my business's integrity or success. As I move forward, I'm committed to better separating work and personal communications and embracing the lesson that constant connectivity isn't necessary for effective business management. In this episode, I cover: Strategies for reassessing workflows, effective planning, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your business can sustain itself if you're stepping awayThe benefits of trusting your team and the systems you've put in place, revealing how stepping away can offer a fresh perspective on what truly aligns with your valuesEmbracing regular downtime can enhance productivity, boost profitability, and lead to a more fulfilled life Connect with Sheila: Follow on Instagram @sheila.hansen.cpaCheck out our website https://www.hansenllc.net Make sure to hit subscribe/follow so you never miss a convo! Find the complete show notes here: https://www.hansenllc.net/stepping-away Resources & Links: Explore the upcoming round of Profit ShiftJoin our weekly newsletter, Profitable Women MindsetLearn more about our Services