Best Gwen Bortner Podcasts (2025)

1
Breaking The Burnout Cycle In Your Business 40:35

2d ago40:35

40:35

Feeling like your entrepreneurial success is just a facade, masking a deep sense of burnout? This episode dives into the often-hidden epidemic of entrepreneurial burnout, exploring the disconnect between external achievement and internal well-being. In this candid conversation, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo unravel why so many business owners and pro…

1
Win-Win Business Collaborations: Setting Expectations For Success 38:52

9d ago38:52

38:52

While everyone's buzzing about business collaborations and partnerships as the golden ticket to growth, achieving a true win-win isn't always as simple as it seems. In this episode, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo, seasoned internet veterans and business strategists, cut through the noise to reveal the essential elements of successful collaborations ve…

1
Coach, Consultant, Or Advisor? Demystifying Business Support Choices 40:43

16d ago40:43

40:43

Navigating the world of business support can feel like a minefield; are you looking for a coach, consultant, or advisor, and what's the real difference anyway? In this episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner engage in a lively, no-holds-barred discussion that cuts through the confusion. Gwen breaks down the nuances between these roles, helping you det…

1
The Comparison Trap: Redefine Business Success, Ignite Your Vision 39:48

23d ago39:48

39:48

The comparison trap is a sneaky beast, isn't it? It whispers doubts in your ear while you scroll through seemingly "perfect" businesses online, making you question your own path. In this candid episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner dive headfirst into this all-too-common pitfall for entrepreneurs, especially women. We're pulling back the curtain on …

1
Simplify To Amplify Part 4: Take Control Of Your Business Commitments 44:33

1M ago44:33

44:33

Feeling like your business commitments are running you instead of the other way around? It's time to tackle the biggest business bottleneck most entrepreneurs overlook: the commitments themselves. In this episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner wrap up their "Simplify to Amplify" series by dissecting the four types of business commitments—time, relati…

1
Simplify To Amplify Part 3: Untangling Business Processes For Bigger Impact 36:54

1M ago36:54

36:54

Streamlining business operations isn't just about efficiency—it's about reclaiming your time and sanity! In this episode, Tonya Kubo dives deep into the art of simplifying business processes with the brilliant business advisor, Gwen Bortner. Together, they unravel the mystery of how processes get tangled over time, leaving you with a web of workflo…

1
Simplify To Amplify Part 2: Expert Advice On Simplifying Your Offerings 41:29

1M ago41:29

41:29

Offering simplification and the principle of simplify to amplify aren't just buzzwords; they're the keys to unlocking greater profits and a less stressful business. In this episode, Tonya Kubo and business advisor Gwen Bortner dive deep into how to streamline your products and services. Gwen shares her expertise on why the common belief that "more …

1
Simplify To Amplify Part 1: Growing Your Business By Doing Less 30:32

2M ago30:32

30:32

Are you constantly adding new tools, services, and systems—only to feel like you're working harder with less to show for it? In this episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner introduce the Simplify to Amplify series, challenging the idea that more is always better. They explore why businesses tend to drift toward unsustainable complexity, how simplifyin…

1
The Partnership Mindset: Transforming How Clients See Your Business 43:36

2M ago43:36

43:36

Transforming how clients see your business can be the difference between short-term projects and long-term partnerships. In this episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner dive into the critical shift from being just another service provider to becoming a strategic partner. Gwen shares her experience in fostering client relationships that last for years—…

1
Client Boundaries: The Secret To Sustainable Success 36:44

2M ago36:44

36:44

The most satisfied clients aren’t the ones you bend over backward for—they’re the ones who work with businesses that have clear boundaries. If you’re constantly scrambling to meet last-minute client requests, dealing with never-ending projects, or struggling with scope creep, it’s time to rethink how you set boundaries. In this episode, Tonya Kubo …

1
Escaping The Business Echo Chamber 42:20

2M ago42:20

42:20

Staying within your scope of business is not necessarily bad, but it hinders you from unlocking bigger opportunities found beyond your niche. Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo discuss how you can get out of your business echo chamber and experience growth you cannot achieve within your comfort zone. They discuss why you should not be afraid to ask questi…

1
Achieve Maximum Profit Without Maxing Out 39:31

3M ago39:31

39:31

Are you maxing out trying to maximize profits in your business? Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo are here to flip the script. They offer a refreshing perspective on achieving sustainable success without maxing yourself out. They explore the hidden costs of underpricing and overwork, providing practical strategies for right-sizing your business model and…

1
Bad Business Advice: How It Can Cost You More Than You Realize 40:30

3M ago40:30

40:30

Tired of receiving bad business advice that just doesn't fit? Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo are throwing a lifeline to business owners sick of the same old, useless platitudes. They're ripping apart the “guru” playbook, exposing why those cookie-cutter programs crumble under the weight of your real-world challenges. Get ready to learn how to spot the…

1
The Profit Paradox: When More Income Leads To Less Profit 42:55

3M ago42:55

42:55

Does more revenue always mean more profit? Not necessarily! The profit paradox explains how scaling a business can sometimes reduce profitability. Join Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo as they dissect this counterintuitive phenomenon, where hitting that coveted seven-figure mark can actually lead to less money in your pocket. They dive deep into the hid…

1
Closing The Implementation Gap: How To Get Things Done 33:41

3M ago33:41

33:41

The struggle is real: the implementation gap, that frustrating space between knowing what to do and actually doing it, plagues us all. Join Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo as they dissect the implementation gap, exploring why knowing what to do doesn't always translate into action. They delve into the common culprits: perfectionism, lack of energy, unc…

1
Time To Pay More Attention To Energy Management 33:05

4M ago33:05

33:05

Most entrepreneurs have tried all kinds of time management systems but still fail to keep up with their long list of priorities. If this approach is ineffective, perhaps paying more attention to energy management is the key. Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner explore the many reasons why energy matters more than time, as well as the often-ignored relation…

1
Micromanagement Mayhem? How To Empower, Not Overwhelm, Your Team 32:21

4M ago32:21

32:21

Micromanaging can stifle your team's growth and create a toxic work environment. In this episode, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo explore the fine line between oversight and micromanagement and how to empower your team to achieve consistent performance without constantly looking over their shoulders. Discover practical strategies for setting clear expe…

1
Role Clarity: The Unsung Hero Of Team Productivity And Conflict Resolution 37:12

4M ago37:12

37:12

Is the lack of role clarity turning your team into a tangled mess of confusion and conflict? In this episode, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo explore why traditional approaches to defining roles often fall short and what you can do instead to create clarity that works. Discover practical strategies for establishing clear reporting lines, defining respo…

1
Bringing Your Business Ideas To Life 30:08

4M ago30:08

30:08

Do you have a stack of brilliant business ideas just waiting to be implemented? In this episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner tackle the common problem of great business ideas that never get off the ground. They explore the gap between planning and execution, discussing the "squirrel factor," the "messy middle," and the crucial role of accountabilit…

1
Stop Running Meetings That Waste Time 41:36

5M ago41:36

41:36

Stop running meetings that waste time! Join Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo as they expose the hidden traps of traditional meetings and reveal powerful strategies to transform your team's communication. Discover how to effectively design impactful meetings, utilize asynchronous communication, and leverage tools like Slack, email, and project management…

1
Your Cornerman: The Person Every Entrepreneur Needs (Beyond A Business Coach) 37:17

5M ago37:17

37:17

Ever wished you had a wise, experienced cornerman to guide you through your business challenges? Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo explore the power of having a business cornerman, a seasoned expert who provides holistic guidance and helps you anticipate challenges. A cornerman offers tailored advice specifically for your unique business battles, asks in…

1
Why Bosses Love To Resist Management 39:35

5M ago39:35

39:35

Being the boss of your own business does not give you unlimited freedom to do everything you want – it actually holds you back from freedom. Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo discuss why entrepreneurs love to resist management by their teams. They emphasize the importance of having the willingness to be held accountable and how to create a healthy two-wa…

1
The Warning Signs Of Team Burnout: Catch It Before It’s Too Late 36:26

5M ago36:26

36:26

Your team says everything's fine, but are they really? In this episode, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo dive deep into the often overlooked issue of team burnout, exploring misconceptions about capacity, subtle warning signs, and proactive steps CEOs can take to prevent it. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries, recognizing limitations as a…

1
Driving Business Revenue: Can Every Role Do It? 33:35

5M ago33:35

33:35

Are you hesitating to hire support staff because they will not directly generate business revenue? This mindset could be the very thing holding you back from sustainable growth. In this episode, co-hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo tackle the common misconception that every team member needs to be a revenue generator. They discuss how to achieve ba…

1
Charge More, Work Less: Developing Better Systems 33:46

6M ago33:46

33:46

If your systems were in place, could you charge more and work less? In this revealing episode, we tackle a hard truth many service providers face: the market has evolved, and "good enough" isn't good enough anymore. Today's savvy clients expect exceptional, consistent service delivery - and they're willing to pay premium prices to get it. Discover …

1
Flexibility Isn't Free: The Business Costs You Aren’t Seeing 33:06

6M ago33:06

33:06

Think your "go with the flow" approach is what makes your business special? Think again. In this eye-opening episode, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo reveal why "winging it" is costing you more than you realize - in time, money, and team morale. Every business runs exactly as it was designed, even if you never consciously designed it. The good news? Yo…

1
The Growth Trap: Why It's Holding Your Business Back And How To Break Free 33:54

6M ago33:54

33:54

Most entrepreneurs believe that working harder and adding more resources is the path to success. But what if that approach is actually holding you back? In this episode, operations strategist Gwen Bortner and marketing expert Tonya Kubo unpack the critical difference between growth and scaling. They reveal why many business owners feel stuck in a c…

1
531 Strategy For Goal Setting: Achieve Your Dreams, Bigger Than Imagined 41:52

6M ago41:52

41:52

Want to set and achieve ambitious business goals that align with your vision? In this episode, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner dive deep into a proven, actionable goal-setting strategy called the "531 Strategy." Discover how to break down your long-term aspirations into manageable milestones, starting from five years out and working towards the present…

1
From Solo To CEO: How To Thrive As A Leader By Valuing Self-Care (Part 4) 37:53

7M ago37:53

37:53

As a leader, it's easy to get caught up in the demands of your role and neglect your own well-being. But what if we told you that personal growth and self-care aren't just important for your personal life - they're essential for your success as a CEO? Join Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo in the final installment of ‘From Solo To CEO,’ closing out with …

1
From Solo To CEO: The Art Of Delegation And Building A High-Performing Team (Part 3) 39:01

7M ago39:01

39:01

You can only do so much as the leader of your business. That is why one of the most powerful tools for scaling your business is delegation. In the third episode of the 'From Solo to CEO' series, Tonya Kubo and Gwen Bortner dive into the art of effective delegation and building a high-performing team. Learn how to overcome perfectionism, embrace mis…

1
From Solo To CEO: Essential Leadership Skills For A Thriving Business (Part 2) 31:09

7M ago31:09

31:09

Discover the essential leadership skills that every successful CEO must master in the second episode of our ‘From Solo to CEO’ series. Join Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo as they explore how to lead your team effectively, whether you're a small team or a large organization. Gwen shares a powerful story of a solopreneur who improved their leadership sk…

1
From Solo To CEO: Pivotal Shifts To Become The Leader Your Business Needs (Part 1) 32:44

7M ago32:44

32:44

Dive into a transformative journey from solopreneur to CEO! In this exciting special miniseries, Tonya Kubo and operations expert Gwen Bortner guide you on making the transition to becoming the leader your business needs. Discover how to break free from the day-to-day grind, delegate tasks effectively, and grow your company with confidence. Whether…

1
From Insight to Action – Real-Life Success Stories 43:53

8M ago43:53

43:53

In this special episode of The Business You Really Want, Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo reflect on listener feedback and dive into real-life success stories. With insights from reviews, they discuss the challenges female entrepreneurs face, the pressures of traditional success metrics, and how to take action based on your unique definition of success.…

1
Is There Such a Thing as a Bad Goal? 26:02

8M ago26:02

26:02

Is it possible that the goals you're setting for your business are actually holding you back? In this episode of The Business You Really Want, hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo dive into the concept of good vs. bad goals. They challenge the notion of SMART goals and explain why what might be a good goal for one person could be a terrible goal for a…

1
Where To Begin When Everything Feels Urgent 33:00

8M ago33:00

33:00

Feeling overwhelmed by all the tasks on your to-do list? Struggling with which to tackle first when everything seems equally urgent? In this episode of The Business You Really Want, hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo discuss the challenge many entrepreneurs face: managing the overwhelming sense of urgency that leads to paralysis. Together, they expl…

1
True Accountability – The Secret to Sustainable Success 31:54

8M ago31:54

31:54

Do you know the difference between being reliable and being accountable? In this episode of "The Business You Really Want," hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo break down the concept of true accountability and why it’s crucial for achieving sustainable success in business. Learn the key differences between tracking, reliability, and accountability, a…

1
Solving The Right Problems In The Right Order 28:30

8M ago28:30

28:30

Do you find yourself solving the wrong problems in your business? Or maybe solving the right problems, but in the wrong order? In this episode of “The Business You Really Want,” hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo discuss the importance of identifying and solving the right problems in the right order. This episode dives into the common pitfalls busin…

1
Systems - Harnessing The Power Of Consistent Behavior 30:23

9M ago30:23

30:23

Are you in control of your systems, or are your systems controlling you? In this episode of "The Business You Really Want," hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo invite you into the world of systems and how the behaviors within your business shape the results you see. Whether you're running a solo operation or managing a growing team, understanding and…

1
Resources - Making The Most Of Your People 33:59

9M ago33:59

33:59

Wondering how to get the most out of your team? In this episode of "The Business You Really Want," hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo explore the critical role that people play in your business. Whether you're managing a small team or you're a solopreneur navigating how to leverage contractors and vendors, this episode offers insights into maximizin…

1
Accounting – Making Sense Of The Numbers That Matter 31:29

9M ago31:29

31:29

Feeling overwhelmed by financial reports? Wondering how to use numbers to truly drive your business forward? In this episode of “The Business You Really Want,” hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo break down the often dreaded world of accounting. They tackle the myths that hold business owners back from understanding their finances and explain why kno…

1
Effectiveness – The Art Of True Delegation 38:19

9M ago38:19

38:19

Are you ready to delegate effectively without sacrificing quality? In this episode of “The Business You Really Want,” hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo dive into the essential skill of delegation—a crucial but often misunderstood aspect of leadership. Learn what true delegation looks like and how mastering it can transform your business. Here’s wha…

1
Goals – How To Set Goals You’ll Actually Achieve 35:03

10M ago35:03

35:03

Are you setting goals that actually align with your values? Or are you chasing someone else’s definition of success? In this episode, Gwen and Tonya share how to create meaningful, achievable goals that propel your business forward without burning you out. Here’s the breakdown of this episode: 1:00 – Why understanding the “why” behind your goals is…

1
A Roadmap To Sustainable Success: Aligning The G.E.A.R.S. Of Your Business 37:31

10M ago37:31

37:31

In this episode of “The Business You Really Want,” hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo dive into the five key functions of business operations and how to identify the bottlenecks within each. Here’s what you can expect in this episode: 1:00 – Understanding symptoms vs. root causes in business issues 2:29 – What really causes cash-flow problems 5:45 –…

1
Introducing The Business You Really Want: Why This Podcast And Why Now? 30:47

10M ago30:47

30:47

Feeling burned out or stuck in a business that no longer brings you joy? Ready to grow without sacrificing what matters most? In this inaugural episode of “The Business You Really Want,” hosts Gwen Bortner and Tonya Kubo tackle the emerging trend of entrepreneurs “burning down” their businesses to start over (or call it quits). Drawing from Gwen’s …

1
The Business You Really Want - Trailer 1:49

11M ago1:49

1:49

Gwen Bortner is an operational strategist and business advisor with four decades of experience spanning more than 40 industries. As the host of The Business You Really Want podcast, Gwen shows female entrepreneurs how to design sustainable, fulfilling businesses aligned with their values. Each week, Gwen and co-host Tonya Kubo share practical strat…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Gwen Bortner Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide