In this episode, Monica pulls back the curtain on what really builds business momentum—genuine relationships and meaningful referrals. She shares her personal experience with formal networking groups like BNI and how intentional one-on-one connections have become a game-changer for her business growth. Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow your customer base, Monica reveals the three essential strategies to get people talking about you...in a good way. If you’ve ever felt awkward asking for referrals or unsure how to grow your network authentically, this episode is for you.

Episode Quote: Your network is your net worth. Porter Gale

What you will learn in this episode:

• How to build a referral network that actually works

• How to ask for referrals without feeling pushy

• How to create easy tools that help others promote your business

• How to show appreciation in ways that encourage repeat referrals

• How to turn one client into ten through strategic relationship-building

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In this episode, Monica challenges listeners to think differently about where they spend their money. Inspired by a doctoral assignment and her own journey as a small business owner, she explores why shopping local isn’t just a feel-good gesture; it’s a powerful economic and community-building choice. With Small Business Saturday and the holiday season fast approaching, this episode is your reminder that every purchase is a vote for the kind of community you want to live in. Monica shares personal stories, eye-opening research, and a few surprising facts that might just make you rethink that next Amazon order.

Episode Quote: When you support a small business, you’re supporting a dream. ~Anonymous

What you will learn in this episode:

• How to strengthen your community with your everyday purchases

• How to rethink convenience vs. impact when shopping

• How to support local businesses beyond Small Business Saturday

• How to find unique, meaningful gifts close to home

• How to use social media to boost your favorite local brands

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⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠

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Ways to reach Monica:

• Instagram: @becomeyourownbosspodcast

• Email: monica@monicaallen.com

In this episode of Become Your Own Boss, Monica flips the script on self-care. Instead of massages and meditation, she’s talking about the financial self-care every entrepreneur needs: retirement planning. Reflecting on a recent conversation with wealth expert John De Goey (Episode 272), Monica shares her own practices and insights on why investing in yourself—beyond your business—isn’t optional. She also breaks down two hot-button issues that could quietly chip away at your profits: tariffs and the government shutdown. If you’ve ever been tempted to reinvest every dollar back into your business, this episode is a must-listen wake-up call.

Episode Quote: You are the most important asset in your business. Self-care is particularly important when you are self-employed. ~Unknown

What you will learn in this episode:

• How to prioritize your personal financial future while running a business

• How to build automatic investing habits that protect future you

• How to respond when tariffs show up on your product invoices

• How to think through the ripple effects of a government shutdown

• How to balance investing in your business with saving outside of it

Episode Sponsor - ⁠KICKSTART YOUR BUSINESS PROGRAM⁠

Helpful Entrepreneurial Resources from Become Your Own Boss

Join the ⁠Become Your Own Boss Community⁠

⁠Monica FREE ebook⁠

Get your⁠ Become Your Own Boss Planner⁠