What I Wish I Knew Before Starting an Online Business: 9 Fresh Tips for Solo Startups!

Starting an online business today looks different from how it did a few years ago.

After years of building, refining, and working with solo business owners, I’ve had time to reflect on what actually matters and what keeps everyone busy, but unsuccessful.

In this episode, I’m sharing what I wish I knew when starting an online business, based on real experience, real mistakes, and lessons learned along the way.

If you’re early in your journey, this will help you focus on what truly moves you forward.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

If you’re starting an online business, this episode will provide insights:

• Why staying busy can feel productive while still holding you back
• The decision most new business owners delay, and why it matters more than they realize
• Why does some advice sound smart but doesn’t work in real life for solo business owners
• The overlooked asset that makes selling feel easier
• Why chasing what’s “working right now” often leads to exhaustion
  …and more

Closing Thought

If you’re starting an online business, you don’t need to do everything; you need to do the right things. Start with strategy, keep it simple, and let clarity guide your next steps. If you need a complimentary strategy call, please visit: https://marisashadrick.com/contact/

Audio Timestamps

00:00:00 Intro and why starting with strategy matters

00:01:00 Strategy vs. tactics explained

00:06:24 Why being busy doesn’t equal progress

00:07:31 One clear offer and validation

00:09:00 Managing doubt when starting an online business

00:10:38 Filtering advice and avoiding overload

00:11:55 Visibility without clarity creates noise

00:13:58 Podcasting and YouTube strategy insight

00:14:39 Why email list building matters early

00:16:22 The cost of chasing algorithms

00:18:27 Building a business that fits your life

00:20:33 Lessons as mentors and selling earlier

00:24:34 Final thoughts and next steps

FREE RESOURCE

Capture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand Identity

INTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE™

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence, CLICK HERE t

Skip Hours of Prompt Trial & Error with ChatGPT

Whether you’re writing, planning, analyzing, or brainstorming, my C.O.N.T.E.X.T. ™ method transforms ChatGPT into a consistent marketing assistant. No steep learning curve.

Free Download!

https://marisashadrick.com/prompts

If you’re ready to grow with effective marketing that actually feels manageable, here’s your next move.

Inside AI Lab for Solopreneurs, get Custom GPTs, templates, and coaching to grow your business.

Visit: https://marisashadrick.com/community

Listen to the "Amplify Your Authority" Podcast! Click Here!

Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Tip: Answer these questions inside of ChatGPT (free or paid) and have AI craft your review!

• How did you discover this podcast?
• What's your biggest takeaway from this episode?
• How has this podcast helped your current journey?

Thanks so much for taking a few minutes to craft a review!

Ready to stop wearing all the hats in your solo business?

In 2026, AI integration will be as common as using your smartphone.

But if you’re a solo business owner who feels behind or overwhelmed by all the new tools, you’re not alone.

In this episode, I break down how to use AI and why strategy, simplicity, and your authentic voice are the keys to growth in the next wave of online business.

What You'll Discover in This Episode

• My top 3 predictions for 2026 and how they affect solo entrepreneurs
• The 3 leadership skills that will set you apart in the age of AI
• Why content marketing is about to explode, and how to stand out with heart and originality, not just more content.
• Why your story and perspective are still your biggest business assets
• Actionable steps for simplifying your offers, building a strong brand voice, and using AI effectively.

Key Takeaways

• AI isn’t a magic fix; it mirrors what you give it. Your clarity and communication matter more than ever.
• Delegation is now about asking: Should I be doing this, or can AI?
• Imagination is your competitive edge. Margin gives you the space to innovate.
• Your brand message and personality are your biggest differentiators in a crowded, AI-generated world.
• Keep your business focused: one offer, one audience, one problem, one transformation.

Join AI Lab for Solopreneurs

Ready to learn how to work smarter with AI and amplify your personal authority?

Find out more at https://marisashadrick.com/community

Audio Timestamps:

00:00:00 – Intro and why AI content is starting to blur
00:01:20 – AI adoption trends and predictions for 2026
00:03:20 – Strategic use of custom GPTs and tools
00:04:50 – Why prompting skills are your new superpower
00:05:57 – The explosion of content: blogs, books, and newsletters
00:08:02 – 3 leadership skills solopreneurs need for the future
00:09:35 – How to simplify your offer, lead magnet, and audience
00:12:05 – Rethinking delegation with AI as your assistant
00:14:15 – Why imagination is your next best strategy
00:16:28 – Protecting your voice and brand in the age of AI
00:18:47 – Closing and community invitation

Skip Hours of Prompt Trial & Error with ChatGPT

Whether you’re writing, planning, analyzing, or brainstorming, my C.O.N.T.E.X.T. ™ method transforms ChatGPT into a consistent marketing assistant. No steep learning curve.

Free Download!

https://marisashadrick.com/prompts

If you’re ready to grow with effective marketing that actually feels manageable, here’s your next move.

Inside AI Lab for Solopreneurs, get Custom GPTs, templates, and coaching to grow your business.

Visit: https://marisashadrick.com/community

Listen to the "Amplify Your Authority" Podcast! Click Here!

Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Tip: Answer these questions inside of ChatGPT (free or paid) and have AI craft your review!

• How did you discover this podcast?
• What's your biggest takeaway from this episode?
• How has this podcast helped your current journey?

Thanks so much for taking a few minutes to craft a review!

I paused the marketing strategy talk to have a real conversation with you, especially if you’re feeling the weight of it all.

This episode isn’t about tactics or trends. It’s about remembering why you started, reframing the hard days, and finding a steady anchor when you feel overwhelmed.

Gratitude isn't just a feeling; it’s a powerful lens that can shift how you show up and serve.

What You'll Discover in This Episode:

• How gratitude reframes setbacks and turns obstacles into opportunities for growth.
• Ways to shift from chasing conversions to truly serving and connecting, one person at a time.
• The power of gratitude to ground you during burnout, overwhelm, or loneliness as a solo business owner.
• Why gratitude matters more than ever as businesses move into a new AI chapter.
• Practical mindset reminders to carry into the new year, helping you see possibility instead of pressure.

From my family to yours, have a wonderful holiday season.

Free Resource

Capture the Human Knowledge Your AI Needs to Model Your Voice, Values, and Brand Identity

INTRODUCING THE HEART PROFILE™

If you’re ready to step off the sidelines and start using AI with confidence,

CLICK HERE to grab my free resource.

Skip Hours of Prompt Trial & Error with ChatGPT

Whether you’re writing, planning, analyzing, or brainstorming, my C.O.N.T.E.X.T. ™ method transforms ChatGPT into a consistent marketing assistant. No steep learning curve.

Free Download!

https://marisashadrick.com/prompts

If you’re ready to grow with effective marketing that actually feels manageable, here’s your next move.

Inside AI Lab for Solopreneurs, get Custom GPTs, templates, and coaching to grow your business.

Visit: https://marisashadrick.com/community

Listen to the "Amplify Your Authority" Podcast! Click Here!

Rate & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to leave a 5-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts.

Tip: Answer these questions inside of ChatGPT (free or paid) and have AI craft your review!

• How did you discover this podcast?
• What's your biggest takeaway from this episode?
• How has this podcast helped your current journey?

Thanks so much for taking a few minutes to craft a review!