Welcome to another episode of the Afterwork Entrepreneur Podcast! This week, Cathy E. Smith dives into the essentials of turning your business idea into a thriving venture. In Episode 60, you'll discover the power of the "three S's"—strategy, systems, and sales. Whether you're juggling a side hustle or dreaming of full-time entrepreneurship, Cathy E. Smith shares practical tips on building a solid foundation, automating processes to save time, and mastering your sales routine. Plus, get inspired to take action with step-by-step advice for mapping out your strategy, improving your systems, and boosting sales. If you're ready to create more options, freedom, and legacy in your business journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights directly from Cathy E. Smith to help you make it happen. Tune in for expert guidance and a special preview of exciting things to come!

Welcome to another inspiring episode of My After Work Entrepreneur Podcast! Today, host Cathy E. Smith dives deep into the essentials of market research and messaging to help entrepreneurs and side hustlers stop “shooting in the dark.” Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your existing business, Cathy covers the pros and cons of market research—from validating your ideas and identifying your ideal customer to spotting market gaps and minimizing risk. She also shares her insights on how to match your messaging with your audience’s readiness level, ensuring every cold, warm, or hot lead gets the right communication at the right time. Plus, Cathy offers actionable strategies and thoughtful reflection questions to help you connect with your target market and turn your expertise into a thriving business. Tune in for practical advice, examples, and quick wins you can apply this week to supercharge your entrepreneurial journey!

market research, business idea validation, target audience, competition analysis, demand for product, ideal customer, pain points, customer desires, market gaps, competitive advantage, pricing strategies, business positioning, risk reduction, marketing strategies, sales funnel, content messaging, traffic segmentation, brand consistency, ad spend ROI, cold leads, warm leads, hot leads, audience awareness, conversion rates, lead nurturing, funnel optimization, brand trust, customer interviews, core messaging, visibility platform, the after work entrepreneur

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the After Work Entrepreneur Podcast! Today, host Cathy E. Smith dives into a topic that’s especially timely: why you shouldn’t wait until you’re in crisis to start your Plan B. Too often, people are pushed into entrepreneurship by unexpected layoffs or burnout, scrambling to build something from a place of fear. Cathy challenges this reactive approach, explaining the power of preparing an intentional, income-generating backup strategy long before you actually need it. In this episode, you’ll learn how to get started on your own exit plan with practical steps, simple mindset shifts, and Cathy’s signature reflection questions. Whether you’re hoping to create more freedom or future-proof your finances, Cathy’s advice will inspire you to take action today—before life forces your hand. Stick around for all the insights and find out how you can join Cathy’s upcoming Plan B workshop or connect with her for one-on-one business coaching.

After Work Entrepreneur podcast, crisis, start a business, business journey, plan B, backup strategy, income, freedom, flexibility, monetize, consistent cash flow, skill set, expertise, business foundation, exit strategy, burnout, layoffs, department restructure, side hustle, digital product, email list, building an audience, perfection vs progress, portable skill set, business idea, Mailchimp, ConvertKit, MailerLite, Systeme.io, 9 to 5 exit strategy, business coaching.