Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips For Creatives podcast

#Business #Finance #Entrepreneurship #Small Business #MBA #Entrepreneur #Samantha Eck | Bookkeeper for Creatives #Creativity

57:50

Alex (@alex_kamenca) and Carley (@carleymitus) are both members of our Action Academy Community that purchased TWO small businesses last thursday! Want To Quit Your Job In The Next 6-18 Months Through Buying Commercial Real Estate & Small Businesses? 👔🏝️ Schedule A Free 15 Minute Coaching Call With Our Team Here To Get "Unstuck" Want to know which investment strategy is best for you? Take our Free Asset-Selection Quiz Check Out Our Bestselling Book : From Passive To Passionate : How To Quit Your Job - Grow Your Wealth - And Turn Your Passions Into Profits Want A Free $100k+ Side Hustle Guide ? Follow Me As I Travel & Build: IG @brianluebben ActionAcademy.com…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

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Creative Minds, Smart Money is the go-to podcast for creative entrepreneurs who are ready to stop treating their finances like a side character in their business story. Hosted by Samantha Eck, bookkeeper and fractional CFO, this show breaks down the financial side of running a creative business into actionable steps that actually make sense. Each week, we tackle everything from pricing strategies and cash flow management to making smart business decisions that keep your creative business thriving (yes, even during those slow months). You'll get real, practical advice on managing your money and growing your business while still having time and funds to enjoy what you love. Beyond the numbers, we explore the full picture of creative business success - from marketing strategies to efficient systems - because building a sustainable business requires more than just good bookkeeping. And occasionally, I bring in industry experts to share their insights on taking your creative business to the next level. Ready to turn your creative talents into a thriving business that actually pays you what you're worth? Hit subscribe and let's make it happen.

45 episodes

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

updated 6 days ago

Series home•Feed

45 episodes

#Business #Finance #Entrepreneurship #Small Business #MBA #Entrepreneur #Samantha Eck | Bookkeeper for Creatives #Creativity

All episodes

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
Why Your Payment App Might Be Hurting Your Business 14:36

6 days ago14:36

14:36

Not all payment apps are created equal—especially when it comes to running a business. PayPal, Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App might be easy , but are they actually good for your business? In this episode, we’re covering: ✅ The best and worst payment apps for entrepreneurs ✅ Why Venmo and PayPal can create IRS red flags ✅ Hidden fees, chargebacks, and tracking nightmares you need to know about ✅ How to avoid bookkeeping chaos when using payment apps ✅ The best payment processors that actually protect your business If you’re using PayPal, Venmo, or Zelle to get paid, you need to hear this first . Don’t let payment mistakes cost you money (or cause a tax mess). 🎧 Hit play now to learn how to get paid without the headaches! Resources & Links Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
How to Make Social Media Fun Again for Your Business With Jayci Trujillo 27:44

13 days ago27:44

27:44

Social media can feel like a never-ending chore—but what if it could actually be fun ? Today, I’m joined by Jayci from Happy Girl Marketing Co , who helps business owners create stress-free, engaging online presences. We’re diving into: ✅ Why so many business owners dread posting on social media (and how to change that) ✅ How to make selling on social media feel natural and authentic ✅ The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make when marketing online ✅ How to engage with your audience without feeling overwhelmed ✅ When and how to outsource social media without losing your voice If social media feels exhausting or stressful, this episode is for you . Learn how to build a social media presence that works for your business—without burning out. 🎧 Hit play now and start creating content that actually feels good! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Connect with Jayci: Website: https://www.happygirlmarketingco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happygirlmarketingco/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@happygirlmarketingco LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayci-trujillo-mba-9a30201b8/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayyccii_ Social Strategy Checklist Freebie: https://happygirlmarketingco.myflodesk.com/strategyfreebie 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
The Power of Financial Intentionality for Creatives 12:47

20 days ago12:47

12:47

Money doesn’t manage itself— you do. And if you’re not intentional, it’s going to disappear faster than you think. But here’s the thing: being intentional with money isn’t about restriction—it’s about freedom. In this episode, we’re talking about how to take control of your finances without feeling boxed in. You’ll learn: ✅ The difference between reactive and intentional money management ✅ Why every dollar in your business needs a job (and how to allocate revenue wisely) ✅ How budgeting can actually create more financial freedom, not less ✅ Simple systems to track spending and plan ahead without stress ✅ How to build a financial roadmap that supports your goals If you want to grow your business and still pay yourself well , you have to be intentional with your money. Hit play now to learn how! Resources & Links Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter 1099 Decision Tree: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGdgjX_nR0/ymLV35UTG6TJfDrHQyTZgw/view?utm_content=DAGdgjX_nR0&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hf2b858c341 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
How to Handle 1099s Without Losing Your Mind 16:28

27 days ago16:28

16:28

1099s don’t have to be a tax season nightmare—but only if you know who actually needs one and how to file them correctly. The last thing you want is to miss a deadline, overpay taxes, or accidentally trigger an audit. In this episode, we’re breaking down: ✔️ Who really needs a 1099 (and who doesn’t) ✔️ The difference between a 1099-NEC and a 1099-MISC ✔️ Common mistakes that lead to IRS penalties ✔️ What payment methods do and don’t require a 1099 ✔️ How to stay organized so you’re not scrambling in January To make things even easier, I’m giving you a free 1099 decision tree —no strings attached! This tool will help you confidently determine who needs a 1099 every tax season. 🎧 Hit play now and get ahead of your 1099 filings before tax time sneaks up on you! Resources & Links Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter 1099 Decision Tree: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGdgjX_nR0/ymLV35UTG6TJfDrHQyTZgw/view?utm_content=DAGdgjX_nR0&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hf2b858c341 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
The Smart Way to Use Speaking to Build Your Business With Jenn Zellers 34:04

5 weeks ago34:04

34:04

Speaking isn’t just for keynote speakers—it’s a powerful marketing tool for business owners looking to grow their brand, attract clients, and establish authority. But how do you land the right opportunities and make them profitable? In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , I sit down with Jenn Zellers , founder of The Visibility Ecosystem , to dive into how to leverage speaking gigs—without feeling salesy or overwhelmed. You’ll learn: ✅ How to identify the best speaking opportunities for your goals ✅ The biggest red flags that signal an event isn’t worth your time ✅ How to pitch yourself as a speaker (even if you're new) ✅ The Sleaze-Free Sales Framework for turning speaking into clients & cash ✅ How one speaking gig can lead to multiple future opportunities Speaking isn’t just about getting on stage—it’s about building a sustainable visibility system that works for your business. Tune in now to learn how to use speaking as a marketing strategy that actually pays off. 🎧 Hit play now and start getting booked with confidence! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Connect with Jenn: Website: https://visibilityecosystem.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visibilityecosystem/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@visibilityecosystem LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jenn-zellers/ Interview Questions Generator Freebie: https://visibilityecosystem.com/questionsgenerator/ No-Fuss Podcast Tour: https://firestormfinance--virtualsummitsearch.thrivecart.com/no-fuss-podcast-tour/ 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
The CEO’s Guide to Making Strategic Investments That Actually Pay Off 16:04

6 weeks ago16:04

16:04

Are Your Business Investments Helping You Grow—or Holding You Back? Not every investment in your business is a winner, and if you've ever spent money on something that wasn’t worth it, you’re not alone. In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , we’re talking about how to reflect on past investments, avoid emotional spending, and make more strategic financial decisions that align with your business goals. I’ll walk you through: ✔️ How to evaluate past investments and identify what was truly valuable ✔️ The three categories every investment should be placed in: Worth it, Neutral, or Regret ✔️ Why emotional spending is one of the biggest money mistakes entrepreneurs make ✔️ A simple framework for making smarter, more intentional investments moving forward ✔️ How to create an investment wish list and sit with purchases before committing Whether you're running a small business or scaling to six figures, every dollar you invest should bring peace, not regret . Let’s make sure your financial decisions are setting you up for success! 🎧 Click play now and start making smarter money moves in your business! Resources & Links Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
The Right and Wrong Way to Barter in Business 10:22

7 weeks ago10:22

10:22

Bartering can be a smart way to get the services you need when cash flow is tight—but is it always the right move? In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , we’re breaking down the pros and cons of bartering and how to ensure it works in your favor. You’ll learn: ✅ When bartering makes sense and when it doesn’t ✅ How to avoid unequal value exchanges ✅ The biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make with bartering ✅ Why tracking bartered services matters for taxes ✅ Creative alternatives to bartering when money is tight Bartering isn’t a long-term solution—it’s a tool to be used wisely. Tune in to discover how to trade strategically, set clear boundaries, and protect your business’s financial health. 🎧 Hit play now and get the insights you need to make bartering work for you! Resources & Links Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter 📢 Love this episode? Share it with a friend and leave a review to help more business owners get smart about their finances. Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
Secrets to High-Converting Email Funnels with Melissa Esmeralda 29:23

8 weeks ago29:23

29:23

Your email list is more than just names in a database—it’s the foundation of your marketing strategy. But if your emails aren’t converting, you’re leaving money on the table. In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Esmeralda, a conversion copywriter and funnel optimization strategist, to uncover what makes email marketing work. From writing lead magnet landing pages that actually attract your ideal client to setting up automation that nurtures and converts, Melissa shares insights that will help you optimize your email strategy for better engagement, more sales, and less stress. Whether you're just getting started with email marketing or want to refine your existing funnel, this episode is packed with practical, no-fluff strategies you can implement right away. What You’ll Learn: The biggest mistakes people make with email marketing and how to fix them How to write lead magnet landing pages that actually convert The secret to writing emails that feel authentic and still drive sales How segmentation and automation can increase your conversions A real-life example of an email sequence that boosted conversion rates by 15% Hit PLAY to start crafting an email strategy that works for you! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-e-8796b6176/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Connect with Melissa: Website: https://www.meomarketinggroup.com/ Instagram: www.Instagram.com/MEOMarketingGroup Threads: threads.com/meomarketinggroup Freebie:: https://meomarketinggroup.thrivecart.com/subjectlineformulas/ Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
Building a Resilient Creative Business 11:40

9 weeks ago11:40

11:40

Recession-proofing your creative business doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In this episode, we’re diving into practical strategies to help your business not just survive—but thrive—during tough economic times. Plus, discover how to create a three-month financial safety plan and explore new skills to future-proof your business. Tough times reveal what we’re made of, and your resilience as a creative entrepreneur can lead to your next big success. If this episode inspired you, share it with a fellow business owner and subscribe for more insights to help you grow your creative business. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
The Subscription Detox You Need 11:13

10 weeks ago11:13

11:13

Are subscriptions draining your business budget? As creative entrepreneurs, it’s easy to get caught up in shiny new tools. But those $10, $20, or $50 subscriptions add up fast. In this episode, we’re diving into how to identify subscription overload, audit your expenses, and save money without sacrificing the tools you need. Every dollar saved is money you can reinvest in your business—or pay yourself! Ready to take control of your expenses? Start by auditing your subscriptions today. If this episode was helpful, share it with a fellow entrepreneur, subscribe for more money-saving tips, and leave a review to let us know what you think! Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Business Debt 13:33

11 weeks ago13:33

13:33

In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money , Samantha Eck dives into the often misunderstood world of debt. Debt isn’t inherently bad—it’s a tool that can either help your business grow or drag it down. Learn the difference between good and bad debt, how to spot debt traps, and smart alternatives to borrowing. Whether you're financing equipment, managing cash flow, or avoiding high-interest loans, this episode equips you with the knowledge to make intentional financial decisions. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
Tax Deductions Every Creative Should Know 14:08

12 weeks ago14:08

14:08

Welcome back to the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast ! In this episode, Samantha Eck shares essential tax deductions that creative entrepreneurs often overlook. Whether you're an artist, photographer, or service provider, discover how to save more money by maximizing your tax savings. From the home office deduction to software expenses, learn how to make every dollar work for you. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
Quarterly Taxes Explained for Creatives 11:30

13 weeks ago11:30

11:30

Welcome back to Creative Minds Smart Money ! In today’s episode, Samantha dives into a topic that leaves many creative entrepreneurs scratching their heads: quarterly taxes. If the idea of quarterly tax payments makes you feel overwhelmed, you’re not alone—but don’t worry! This episode breaks it all down so you can tackle quarterly taxes with clarity and confidence. With practical advice and actionable steps, this episode will empower you to stay on top of your taxes so you can focus on running your business stress-free. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship for Creatives 14:48

14 weeks ago14:48

14:48

Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! Welcome back to Creative Minds Smart Money ! In this episode, Samantha breaks down one of the most important decisions for creative entrepreneurs: Should you structure your business as a sole proprietor or an LLC? What You’ll Learn: The key differences between an LLC and sole proprietorship. How each structure impacts your taxes, liability, and credibility. Pros and cons of being a sole proprietor (low cost but no liability protection). Why an LLC can protect your personal assets and offer flexibility for growth. What it means to transition to an S Corp (and when to consider it). Questions to ask yourself to decide which is the right fit for your business. Samantha provides actionable insights to help you align your business structure with your goals, budget, and long-term vision. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. Connect with Samantha: Website: https://www.firestormfinance.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firestormfinance/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@firestormfinance?hl=en Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/firestormfinance/ Newsletter: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/podcastnewsletter Have a suggestion for something or someone you'd like to see on this podcast? Fill out this form here .…

Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

1
Take Control of Your Finances with Smart Budgeting 13:32

15 weeks ago13:32