Ep 1. The Truth About My First Business, My Pivot, and What I’d Do Differently - with Alexis Underwood

The Brand Memo – Bite-Sized Insights for Purpose-Driven, Life-First Business Growth

#Entrepreneur #Business #Alexis underwood - Seed and Sol Co #Alexis underwood - Seed #SOL

34:07

In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Jay Crone, Managing Director and Venture Capitalist at Deloitte Ventures, to explore the firm’s strategic approach to corporate venture capital. Jay shares Deloitte Ventures’ investment thesis, focusing on supporting innovative Canadian startups at Series A and B stages across key sectors like cybersecurity, climate tech, fintech, future of work, health tech, and AI. Listeners will gain an inside look at how Deloitte leverages its vast network of 1,500 partners and 15,000 employees to source deals and add value beyond capital by helping startups navigate Deloitte’s complex ecosystem and access enterprise clients. Jay also discusses his diverse career journey—from government and investment banking to entrepreneurship and corporate VC—and how those experiences shape his investment philosophy. The episode delves into Deloitte’s due diligence process, the importance of founder relationships, and the firm’s strategic role as a co-investor. Jay highlights emerging trends, particularly the promise of vertical AI tailored to industry-specific needs, and shares his bullish outlook on fintech innovations like stablecoins and cross-border payments. He offers candid advice for entrepreneurs on risk-taking and aligning business vision with funding goals. This episode is a must-listen for founders, investors, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of corporate venture capital and innovation in Canada. Learn more about Jay's work at https://www.deloitte.com/ca/en/services/program/ventures.html Connect with Jay on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaycrone/ Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/ Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com…

about a year ago 31:26

M4A•Episode home

I built a profitable business that looked great on paper—dreamy branding, steady sales, all the things I thought I wanted. But behind the scenes? I was exhausted, misaligned, and constantly torn between motherhood and work. In this first episode, I’m sharing the real story behind why I pivoted, what finally pushed me to make a change, and how I began building a business that actually supports my life (not steals me from it).If you’ve ever felt the nudge to shift—even when nothing’s technically wrong—this one’s for you.Explore more:Website: www.seedandsol.comInstagram: @seedandsol.co

19 episodes

Ep 1. The Truth About My First Business, My Pivot, and What I’d Do Differently - with Alexis Underwood

The Brand Memo – Bite-Sized Insights for Purpose-Driven, Life-First Business Growth

published about a year ago

M4A•Episode home

19 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Alexis underwood - Seed and Sol Co #Alexis underwood - Seed #SOL

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Ep 18. Starting Over After 7 Figures: A Real Conversation on Burnout and Recreating sustainable success - with Gabs Hayes 35:58

29 days ago35:58

35:58

After building a seven-figure business, Gabs Hayes found herself completely burnt out—and knew something had to change. In this powerful conversation, Gabs shares what it really looked like to walk away from success that no longer served her, why awareness is the greatest gift of entrepreneurship, and how she now builds her business around sustainability, rest, and real alignment.…

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Ep 17. SEO Without the Stress: Simple Strategies for Sustainable Visibility - with Mckayla Spencer 41:54

5 weeks ago41:54

41:54

Tired of ghosting your blog and relying on Instagram 24/7? SEO strategist Mikayla Spencer breaks down how to start showing up on Google—without the overwhelm. We talk simple steps, sustainable strategies, and visibility that actually works for your life. Links + Resources: Get additional support and resources from me: www.seedandsol.com Find me on Instagram: @seedandsol.co and @brandmemopodcast Connect with Mikayla on Threads + Instagram: @commamama.co Grab Mikayla’s Free SEO Checklist and learn more at: www.thecommamamaco.com…

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Ep 16. Just Breathe: Using Breathwork and Intuition to Build a Sustainable Business - with Emily King 1:01:35

6 weeks ago1:01:35

1:01:35

What if the key was breathing deeper ? In this episode, I’m joined by Emily King (aka: Em), a marketing strategist and certified breathwork teacher who helps entrepreneurs blend mindfulness with messaging for real, sustainable growth. After years working with major brands like L’Oréal and GSK, Em hit burnout hard and set off on a soul-led adventure that would change everything—from how she worked to how she breathed. Together, we dive into: Why burnout often creeps in even when things are “going well” How breathwork can regulate your nervous system and your strategy The real reason your content isn’t converting (and what to do instead) The myth of the faceless brand and why alignment beats algorithms Using feminine energy to create a more easeful, intuitive business model Whether you’re scaling toward six figures or trying to stay grounded while growing, this one’s for you. Figure out your next move: www.seedandsol.com Connect with me: @seedandsol.co and @brandmemopodcast Learn more about Emily and her work: @_emnco | https://emnco.podia.com | @the_cwordmag…

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Ep 15. Money clarity starts here: Financial first steps for small business owners - with Samantha Eck 44:30

7 weeks ago44:30

44:30

If your business finances feel messy or unclear, this episode is your starting point. We're breaking down the first (and most overlooked) step to building a more sustainable, financially confident business. 🎧 In this episode: Why your bank statement isn’t enough for financial clarity What to track instead—and how to do it simply The danger of mixing personal and business expenses The easiest way to start paying yourself properly How financial clarity fuels smarter growth Connect with me on Instagram: @seedandsol.co and @brandmemopodcast Find Samantha: @Firestormfinance…

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Ep 14. Unlocking the Power of Pinterest: Tips for Sustainable, Evergreen Growth - with Meagan Williamson 58:29

8 weeks ago58:29

58:29

If you’re tired of feeling like you have to be online 24/7 just to stay relevant, this episode is for you. I’m chatting with Meagan Williamson—Pinterest expert and marketing educator—about how to turn Pinterest into a powerful, evergreen marketing tool that works while you’re off living your life . Meagan shares how she went from school psychologist to digital marketing powerhouse, why Pinterest isn’t just for recipes anymore, and how to start repurposing your social media content for long-term growth. We dive into: The secret to high-value, save-worthy pins that boost your reach Using Pinterest SEO (without feeling intimidated by it!) The balance between nurture-based platforms and discovery-based platforms How to repurpose your existing content with purpose for Pinterest Real-life success stories (including how one client tripled their sales in 45 days!) If you’re ready to get off the hamster wheel of social media and create a business that works for you—without burnout—this episode will show you how. Connect with me, Quizzes, Freebies, + more: www.seedandsol.com On Instagram: @seedandsol.co and @brandmemopodcast Find Meagan on Instagram and her website…

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Ep 13. Booking 27 Clients in 6 Months with the Power of Referrals + Pitching - with Hannah Murphy 53:35

9 weeks ago53:35

53:35

In this episode, I’m joined by systems strategist Hannah Murphy to talk about how she went from 3 to 27 clients in just six months—without burning out. She shares the two strategies that made the biggest difference (referrals and pitching), plus the systems, mindset shifts, and client experience upgrades that helped her grow sustainably. 🎧 We cover: How Hannah booked 27 clients in 6 months (on part-time hours) The referral system she still uses to grow today Her honest take on pitching—and how to make it feel aligned The systems + mindset shifts behind sustainable success What to prioritize (and what to stop doing) when you’re scaling [Quiz: find out what your next big move is] Connect with me: @seedandsol.co and @brandmemopodcast Find Hannah: @withhannahandco…

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Ep 12. Sober Curious? The Unexpected Wins of Cutting Back on Alcohol - with Sarah Williamson 43:48

10 weeks ago43:48

43:48

Ever wonder if your nightly glass of wine is doing more harm than good? In this episode of The Brand Memo , I’m joined by sobriety coach and bestselling author Sarah Williamson for an eye-opening conversation about how alcohol impacts our energy, confidence, and business growth. Sarah shares how drinking less doesn’t mean missing out—it’s about gaining more clarity, calm, and connection (with yourself and others). Whether you’re sober-curious or simply wondering how to feel better in your body and business, this episode will leave you with so much to think about. 🎧 IN THIS EPISODE: How alcohol impacts your business success and personal well-being Why drinking less is about gaining more—not giving things up Simple mindset shifts to explore a healthier relationship with alcohol The surprising emotional and physical benefits of taking a break from drinking How to navigate social events without feeling pressured to drink Why stepping away from alcohol can strengthen your intuition and confidence Connect with me: @seedandsol.co and @BrandMemoPodcast www.SeedAndSol.com Find Sarah: @DrinkLessLiveBetter DrinkLessLiveBetter.com…

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Ep 11. How to Unlock the Confidence to Charge More, Show Up, and Scale Smarter - with Kelly Sturtevant 45:43

11 weeks ago45:43

45:43

What does it really take to go from passion project to full-time income—especially when you’re the sole provider? In this episode of The Brand Memo, I’m joined by business coach Kelly Sturtevant, who shares her story of scaling from virtual assistant work to building a multi-figure business that fully supports her and her family. Together, we talk about navigating money blocks, showing up when self-doubt creeps in, and building a business that’s not just profitable—but aligned with the life you actually want. Kelly gets real about the challenges of stepping into visibility, pricing your offers with confidence, and making bold moves—even when the stakes are high. This one’s packed with mindset shifts and practical strategies you’ll want to take notes on. 🎧 IN THIS EPISODE: How Kelly transitioned from side hustle to sole income earner The visibility fears and mindset blocks that keep entrepreneurs stuck What to focus on daily to move the needle toward 5-figure months The real reason you’re struggling to charge more—and how to fix it Ways to shift from survival mode into sustainable success How to decide between high-ticket, low-ticket, or both Money mindset reframes that help you feel good about your pricing Love this episode?! Post about it and tag us on IG! @brandmemopodcast Explore more: https://seedandsol.com Connect with Kelly: https://kellysturtevant.com/…

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Ep 10. The Real Reason Imposter Syndrome Hits Hard (and What to Do About It) 38:35

12 weeks ago38:35

38:35

If imposter syndrome has been quietly running the show behind the scenes of your business… this one’s for you. In this solo episode, we’re getting real about the doubts that sneak in—even when you know you’re capable. I’m breaking down the biggest imposter syndrome triggers I see in the small business space, how they might be holding you back more than you realize, and what to do about them. We’ll talk through: Feeling unqualified or “not expert enough” The fear of being seen online (and judged for it) What to do when your voice feels different than the “industry norm” Charging for work that feels easy to you Comparison spirals, inconsistency, and self-doubt Tangible mindset and clarity shifts that actually help You’ll walk away with a reminder of your worth, a few pep talks, and practical ways to move forward with more confidence, clarity, and conviction—even when the fear is still present. This episode is a mirror, a reset, and a rallying cry for the entrepreneur who’s tired of second-guessing herself. Listen here to unpack imposter syndrome and take your power back... one aligned, imperfect, but deeply intentional step at a time. Find me on Instagram: @seedandsol.co and @brandmemopodcast Take the quiz, view services, + more: www.seedandsol.com…

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Ep 9. Leadership, Boundaries, Self-Awareness, and Sustainable Success - with Desiree Cocroft 48:04

13 weeks ago48:04

48:04

Feeling like you’re constantly juggling too much—and still not getting where you want to be? In this episode of The Brand Memo , I’m joined by coach, speaker, and author Desiree Cocroft for a deeply honest conversation about redefining success, setting boundaries that actually stick , and un-hustling your business and life so you can show up with clarity, confidence, and intention. Desiree has helped thousands of high-achieving women own their voice, lead boldly, and build careers on their own terms—and today, she’s sharing the mindset shifts and real strategies to help you do the same. 🎧 IN THIS EPISODE: Why time management is really about priority management How to stop people-pleasing and rewire your identity What most entrepreneurs get wrong about boundaries The power of self-awareness and how to start rebuilding from survival mode Systems + support tools Desiree uses to run multiple aligned businesses How to know when it’s time to pause, pivot, or make a bold move Connect with Desiree: https://www.desireecocroft.com/ Explore the site for a quiz and ways to work together: ⁠https://www.seedandsol.com⁠ Connect with me on Instagram: ⁠@seedandsol.co⁠ Follow the podcast for more real talk: ⁠@brandmemopodcast⁠…

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Ep 8. Mindset Shifts Start in the Body - The Nervous System’s Role in Success – with Kim Kimball 44:00

14 weeks ago44:00

44:00

If you’ve ever felt stuck, burnt out, or like your body is rebelling against your business goals—this conversation is for you. In this episode, I’m joined by somatic leadership coach Kim Kimball to talk about how nervous system regulation can transform the way we work, especially for highly sensitive or neurodivergent entrepreneurs. We explore why resistance is actually a form of self-protection, how to make sustainable progress by honoring your energy, and why consistency doesn't mean doing the same thing every day. Kim breaks down powerful practices like the “Change Formula” and “Energy Mapping Method,” and shares what it really means to work with your body instead of against it. If you’re craving a more easeful, embodied approach to productivity, growth, and leadership—you’ll want to take notes on this one. ✨ Highlights: What somatics, parts work, and CBT actually look like in practice How to support your nervous system in business The truth behind self-sabotage and why it’s never just a mindset issue Why perfectionism, people-pleasing, and masking are often nervous system responses How to make consistent progress without constant hustle Resources and links: Kim's website: www.kimkimballcoaching.com Kim's Instagram: @kimkimballcoaching Find me (Your host, Alexis!): www.seedandsol.com Say hi on Instagram: @seedandsol.co Follow the show: @brandmemopodcast 🎁 Kim is also offering a free day of asynchronous coaching to listeners! ⁠ [Booking link here]⁠…

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Ep 7. How to Use Story-Driven Content to Connect, Convert, and Stand Out - with Claudia Lamb 36:30

15 weeks ago36:30

36:30

What if the secret to consistent content that actually converts wasn’t posting more—but connecting more deeply? In this episode, I’m joined by Claudia Lamb, a copywriter and content strategist who helps personality-packed brands stand out online by leaning into story-driven, human-centered messaging. We’re diving into why your content might not be converting (even if it’s “valuable”), how to bring more of you into your brand, and how to use storytelling, video, and content strategy to build trust and connection with the right audience—without chasing trends or burning out. Whether you’re a service provider, educator, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will help you rethink your approach to content and show up with more clarity, intention, and ease. We cover: The real reason customers are taking longer to convert (and what to do about it) Why storytelling > trends—and how to create content that actually resonates How to show more of your personality in content without oversharing Tips for creating better video without needing a full production setup The key difference between content that gets ignored and content that connects If you’ve been craving more alignment, consistency, and connection in your content—this one’s for you. Resources & Links: Learn more about Claudia’s work: ⁠loudernow.com.au⁠ Email Claudia: claudia@loudernow.com.au Find me: ⁠www.seedandsol.com⁠ Connect on Instagram: ⁠@seedandsol.co⁠…

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Ep 6. Hormone-Aligned Productivity – How to Work With Your Cycle Instead of Against It – with Renae Fieck 42:07

16 weeks ago42:07

42:07

If you’ve ever felt like you were doing everything right but still running on empty, this episode is your permission slip to stop pushing and start aligning. Today I’m joined by Renée Fieck—occupational therapist, breathwork facilitator, and feminine leadership coach—who helps high-achieving women harness the power of their menstrual cycle to unlock productivity, creativity, and sustainability in business. We’re digging deep into how cycle syncing can help you stop working against your body and finally create a business that works with you. This conversation is equal parts mindset shift and practical guidance—and it’s packed with the kind of support that helps you redefine success on your own terms. We cover: How our culture’s obsession with hustle is keeping us stuck in burnout The four phases of your cycle—and what to actually do in each one The power of slowing down, embracing your rhythms, and syncing your business with your body Why traditional productivity advice often fails women (and what to try instead) Practical first steps to begin aligning your schedule with your cycle Whether you’re brand new to cycle syncing or ready to deepen your connection with your body, this episode will help you reimagine what growth can look like when you stop forcing and start flowing. Resources & Links: Connect with Renée: reneeFieck.com Email Renée: renee@reneefieck.com Find me: www.seedandsol.com Say hi on Instagram: @seedandsol.co…

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Ep 5. Feeling the Nudge to Pivot? Here's how to know it's the right move - with Alexis Underwood 22:14

16 weeks ago22:14

22:14

Ever feel like things in your business look fine on paper—but deep down, you know something’s off? In this episode, I’m sharing the story of a surprising pivot I made last summer that reshaped my entire business (and why it didn’t mean I failed). We’re talking about the quiet signs it might be time for a shift, how to know when you’ve outgrown what used to work, and how to realign without burning it all down. Whether you’re craving more clarity, better clients, or just a business that fits the life you’re actually living—this one’s for you. In this episode: Signs it’s time to pivot (even when nothing’s technically wrong) Why alignment matters more than “success” My behind-the-scenes story of rebranding and reconnecting with my purpose How to start realigning your brand, offers, and messaging without a full overhaul Website: www.seedandsol.com Instagram: @seedandsol.co…

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Ep 4. Triple your Revenue and Create More White Space with VIP Days - Sarah Masci 49:06

16 weeks ago49:06