Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance ...
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.
51
Quarterly Taxes Explained for Creatives
11 min
52
LLC vs. Sole Proprietorship for Creatives
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 l...
14 min
53
Take Control of Your Finances with Smart Budgeting
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 today’s episode, Samantha dives into the magic of budgeting for creative entrepreneurs. Spoiler alert: budgeting isn’t about cutting out the things you love it’s about giving every dollar a purpose.Budgeting is the roadmap to sustainable growth and financial freedom—it’s about putting your money to work for you.Connect with Samantha:Website: https://www.firestormfi...
13 min
54
Why Saying Yes to Everything Costs You Money an...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, Samantha Eck dives into the often-overlooked power of saying no in your business. Learn why setting clear boundaries protects your time, energy, and finances, and how saying no to the wrong opportunities makes space for the right ones. Samantha shares personal stories, practical tips, and actionable advice to help you confidently say no without guilt, build strong ...
13 min
55
Hiring Help Without Breaking The Bank
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Feeling overwhelmed in your business? It might be time to hire help—but can you afford it? In this episode, Samantha Eck breaks down how to financially prepare for hiring, whether it's a contractor, employee, or assistant. Learn how to evaluate your numbers, create a budget, and build a financial cushion to make hiring stress-free. Plus, Samantha shares actionable steps for testing the waters and ensuring your ...
13 min
56
Bench Accounting is Back? Should You Trust Them?
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode, Samantha Eck dives into the recent acquisition of Bench Accounting by Employer.com. Learn what this transition means for Bench users, the risks involved, and the critical questions you need to ask before deciding whether to stay or switch. Samantha breaks down the importance of data ownership, reliable bookkeeping partnerships, and rebuilding trust after Bench's abrupt shutdown.What You’ll Lear...
8 min
57
Bench Accounting Shutdown What to Do Next
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In today’s episode, Samantha tackles the sudden Bench Accounting shutdown that has left many small business owners scrambling to recover their financial data. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry—this episode is packed with actionable steps to help you transition smoothly and protect your business moving forward.In this episode, Samantha shares:How to recover your data before it’s gone.Steps to tran...
13 min
58
How to Focus on Profit and Stop Chasing Revenue
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, Samantha breaks down the critical difference between profit and revenue two terms that often trip up creative entrepreneurs. If you’ve ever wondered why you’re making money but still feel broke, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn:The difference between revenue (your total income) and profit (what’s left after expenses).Why focusing on profit is more importan...
7 min
59
How to Use Blogging to Grow Your Creative Busin...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, Samantha chats with KP and Jesse from Inkpot Creative about how blogging can be a game-changer for creative entrepreneurs. Learn how to use blogging to drive traffic, build trust, and attract your dream clients—all without feeling overwhelmed.What You’ll Learn:Easy steps to start blogging (even if you’re not a writer).Why blogging is a long-term traffic tool that w...
34 min
60
Plan Next Year’s Success with a Year-End Financ...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, Samantha breaks down how to conduct a year-end financial review for your creative business. Learn the key steps to assess your profits, analyze expenses, and set actionable goals for the new year. Whether it's reviewing your profit and loss, cutting unnecessary costs, or planning for growth, this episode will guide you to start the next year with clarity and confid...
11 min
61
Tax Season Prep for Creatives Made Simple
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome back to the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast! Tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming—this episode breaks down exactly what you need to do to get prepared and stress less.What You’ll Learn:Key reports to pull: profit and loss, balance sheet, and cash flow.Essential records to gather, like 1099s, receipts, and mileage logs.How to maximize deductions for home office, travel, and supplies.Why separa...
10 min
62
How Branding Transforms Your Creative Offers wi...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, Samantha chats with Aiza, AKA “The Brand Chef,” about creating bold, personality-packed branding for your offers. Aiza shares how branding can make your offers irresistible and help you stand out in a crowded market.What You’ll Learn:The difference between branding your business vs. your offer and why it matters.How strategic branding attracts the right clients whi...
26 min
63
Pay Yourself First, Not Last
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome back to the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast! In today’s episode, we’re covering one of the most essential (and often neglected) parts of running a business: how to pay yourself.Join Samantha as she breaks down:The different ways to pay yourself depending on your business structure (and why S-Corps require you to take a reasonable salary!).Why understanding cash flow and profit is key to figuring out ...
8 min
64
How to Make the Most of Quiet Times in Your Bus...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome to another episode of the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into the world of slow months—those times when business feels quieter than usual, and you're wondering how to make the most of it. Spoiler alert: slow months are not the end of the world! They’re a golden opportunity to focus on growth, assess your business, and invest in yourself.Connect with Samantha:Website: h...
11 min
65
Grow Your Business Through Genuine Engagement w...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In this episode, Samantha Eck welcomes Celina from Luna Marketing Services, a seasoned marketing professional with over 10 years of experience in social media marketing and co-founder of Luna Marketing Services. Together, they dive deep into the world of social media marketing, content creation, and audience engagement for small business owners and creatives.Connect with Samantha:Website: https://www.firestormf...
32 min
66
Get Paid What You’re Worth
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Today on Creative Minds Smart Money, we’re tackling a huge topic for every creative entrepreneur—setting the perfect pricing for your services. 💰 You’ve got skills, you’ve got value, and now it’s time to make sure you’re getting paid what you’re truly worth.We’re breaking down everything you need to know to feel confident in your pricing, including:Knowing your worth and why admin hours absolutely countHow to c...
10 min
67
Your Cash Flow Game Plan
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!In today’s episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, we’re diving into cash flow mastery—the money moves that every creative entrepreneur needs to get a handle on. Whether you're a freelancer, coach, or creative business owner, cash flow can make or break your business, and it's time we get real about how to master it.I’m breaking down the key strategies you need to stay in control of your money, including:H...
10 min
68
AI for Creatives: Your New Digital Assistant wi...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!On today's episode of Creative Minds Smart Money, we’re diving into the world of AI for creative entrepreneurs! Whether you're a solopreneur, freelancer, or small business owner, AI can help you level up your business without the overwhelm. Our guest today, Nikki, founder of The Creative Copilot, breaks down how to integrate AI into your workflow and use it as your personal assistant (not a replacement) to save...
29 min
69
The Financial Reports Every Creative Needs
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome back to the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast! I’m your host, Samantha Eck, and in today’s episode, we’re talking about something every creative entrepreneur needs but most tend to avoid—financial reports. Whether you're running a thriving creative business or just getting started, knowing your numbers can be the difference between growing and struggling.Today, I’m breaking down the three essential fin...
11 min
70
Simplified Invoicing: Get Paid On Time, Every Time
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome back to the Creative Minds, Smart Money podcast! I’m your host, Samantha Eck, and today, we’re diving into one of the most crucial yet often dreaded parts of running a business: invoicing. Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, getting paid should be the smoothest part of your business.In this episode, we’ll cover the key strategies to simplify your invoicing proces...
15 min
71
The Art of Creative Leadership with Tomasha Suber
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 today’s episode, we’re diving into the power of leadership and why blending creativity with strong management is the secret sauce for building a successful business. I’m thrilled to have Tomasha Suber, founder of T28 Consulting and a leadership coach, as our guest.Together, we explore her journey from the corporate grind to coaching business leaders on how to lead ...
37 min
72
Elevate Your Business Operations with Lauren Glynn
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome back to the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast! I’m your host, Samantha Eck, and today’s episode is all about taking your creative business to the next level with smarter, more efficient operations. I’m joined by systems and operations consultant Lauren Glynn, who shares her insights on streamlining business processes to cut the chaos and boost your bottom line.Lauren breaks down the importance of defin...
31 min
73
Protect Your Brand: Essential Legal Steps for C...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! In this episode of the Creative Minds, Smart Money Podcast, I’m chatting with trademark lawyer Kelly Jones, who’s here to drop some serious knowledge on how to protect your creative business legally (don’t worry, we’re keeping it jargon-free). From the basics of trademarks vs. copyrights to the importance of securing your intellectual property before it’s too late, Kelly walks us through the essential leg...
26 min
74
Unlocking the Power of Email Marketing with Sha...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at! Welcome back to another episode of the Creative Minds Smart Money Podcast! This time, we’re diving deep into the world of email marketing with special guest Shannon—an email marketing pro who turned her burnout as a wedding photographer into a thriving, profitable business. Shannon breaks down everything from choosing the right email platform to growing and nurturing your list, all while keeping your mess...
32 min
75
Building Resilience: Staying Strong and Motivat...
Send us a text! If you want us to contact you leave an email we can contact you at!Welcome back to the Creative Minds, Smart Money Podcast, where we blend creativity and financial know-how to help you build a thriving business. Today, I’m excited to have Josie Dumont, a certified leadership and mindset coach, join me to talk all about building resilience and staying motivated on your entrepreneurial journey.Josie’s story is truly inspiring—from facing corporate burnout and redundancy to now e...
28 min