Ever wondered if you could ditch the 9–5 and build a business on your own terms? In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, I sit down with Liz Steblay, author of Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth, to talk about what it really takes to run a thriving business without a traditional team—or a boss. After being laid off in 2004, Liz launched her first consulting business and never looked back. From founding the Proko Agency to creating the Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA), Liz has helped thousands of professionals navigate the transition from corporate life to successful solo entrepreneurship. She shares powerful strategies from her book, including how to tame your FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt), build a memorable niche, and leverage 1099 contractors without crossing legal boundaries. Whether you’re dreaming of going out on your own or already navigating the solopreneur life, this conversation is full of practical tools, mindset shifts, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from lived experience. We dive into: What solopreneurship really means (hint: you don’t have to do it alone!) The difference between solopreneurs, freelancers, and entrepreneurs How to tame the “FUD monster” (fear, uncertainty, and doubt) Legal and tax tips for working with independent contractors Why your LinkedIn profile should act like your storefront The biggest mindset blocks solopreneurs face—and how to move through them Links & Resources Mentioned: Get Liz’s book, Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth – https://amzn.to/4iRN8bt (affiliate link) Visit the book’s landing page – SixKeys.info (works with both SIX and 6) Learn more about the Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA) – Available via the SixKeys.info site If you’re building (or dreaming about building) a business of your own, this episode is a must-listen. Liz’s real-world advice and approachable strategies will leave you feeling empowered and equipped. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow solopreneur. For more tools to support your journey, visit kellyschuknecht.com.

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