Keeping Financially Healthy During Covid-19 with Maria Rekrut on All Things Real Estate, July 02, 2020 at 8:00 pm EST. Maria Rekrut is a long time real estate investor who has seen many ups and downs in the economy since 1982, when she started her first business and has always made “Lemonade out of Lemons”. https://youtu.be/BwwyD5f0154
Are you struggling to grow your business without a massive advertising budget? In this episode of Business Renegades, hosts Amanda Renaud and Maria Rekrut reveal how to master organic marketing and build lasting trust with your audience.
Marketing doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming. This discussion focuses on practical strategies for new and emerging business owners who want to see real results. You will learn about the Rule of Three strategy, which helps you maintain a consistent presence on social media without burning out. Amanda and Maria also dive into how modern AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity are leveling the playing field for small businesses.
Beyond the technical side of posting, this video explores the human element of business. You will hear insights on why shorter content is more effective for modern attention spans and how to identify exactly where your target audience spends their time online. From building your own database to navigating the world of networking and avoiding common digital scams, this episode is packed with veteran advice for the modern entrepreneur.
Chapters
0:00 Welcome to Business Renegades Episode 4 3:05 Marketing on a Budget with AI Tools 6:15 The Rule of Three Strategy for Consistency 9:40 Capturing Attention in Under Seven Seconds 13:20 Best Platforms for Authors and Small Businesses 16:50 Using AI to Free Up Your Creative Time 20:15 Building Trust and Emotional Connection 24:10 Networking and Giving Back to the Community 27:55 Identifying Red Flags and Avoiding Scams 31:40 The Power of Word of Mouth and Loyalty 34:50 Contact Information and Closing Thoughts 36:17 End of Video
🚀 Follow the Rule of Three to stay consistent 📈 Use AI to streamline your meeting notes and content 💡 Focus on platforms where your audience actually hangs out 🤝 Build long-term relationships through trust and value
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the channel and leave a comment below with your biggest marketing challenge!
Marketing Strategy, Small BusinessMarketing, Digital Marketing, Social MediaMarketing, Marketing for Authors, Organic Audience Growth, Rule of Three Marketing, Low Budget Business Tips, Content Creation Strategy, Business Renegades, Call to Action Tips, AI for Business, ChatGPT Marketing, Short Form Content, Substack for Authors, Target Audience Research, Entrepreneurship Tips, Marketing on a Budget, Amanda Renaud, Maria Rekrut.
Ever wondered if you could launch a business idea in less than a minute? Join Amanda Renaud and Maria Rekrut as they break down the exact steps to start a side hustle without quitting your day job or spending a fortune. In this episode, we explore how to navigate the current economic climate by leveraging your existing skills and the power of artificial intelligence.
Starting a business does not have to be a massive risk. We discuss why keeping your full-time employment while building your dream slowly is the smartest move you can make for your financial security. You will learn the specific ChatGPT prompts needed to generate a realistic business plan that fits into just five to ten hours a week. We focus on solving real-world problems for customers rather than chasing complex funnels or passive income myths that often lead to failure.
Maria and Amanda also share their personal stories of growth and resilience. Maria discusses her transition from the fast-paced business world of New York City to Canada, while Amanda explains how she built her publishing career while working full-time. We emphasize that success comes from discipline, a willingness to learn new technology, and the drive to make that very first dollar. If you are ready to stop making excuses and start building your future, this video provides the practical roadmap you need to get started today.
Chapters: 0:00 Intro to starting a business in 60 seconds 2:45 Navigating the current economic challenges 5:30 Why you should keep your day job while starting 8:15 Using ChatGPT and AI for business prompts 11:00 Turning your current job skills into a business 14:15 Real stories of entrepreneurship and hustle 17:00 Solving problems and finding your first customer 19:15 How to connect and final thoughts 20:34 End of video
Ready to take the next step in your professional journey? Send us an email at the addresses mentioned in the video or visit our websites to learn more about our courses and upcoming shows. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with a friend who needs a boost in their career.
business #entrepreneurship #sidehustle #ai #startup
Entrepreneurship, Small Business, Side Hustle, Business Ideas, Start a business in 60 seconds, ChatGPT business prompts, AI for business owners, Zero budget business, Business Renegades, How to earn first $100 online, AI side hustle, ChatGPT for entrepreneurs, How to start a business, Work from home, Starting a business while working, Skill based business, Financial independence, Career transition, Prompt engineering for business
Welcome to the very first episode of Business Renegades. In this debut discussion, hosts Maria and Amanda dive deep into the foundation of any successful venture: the business mindset. While many aspiring entrepreneurs focus on what product to sell or what service to offer, they often overlook the mental shift required to move from being an employee to being a business owner.
The transition from a stable 9-to-5 to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship is more than just a career change—it is a total psychological overhaul. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between the employee and entrepreneur mindsets, the reality of business income, and why discipline is the ultimate key to long-term success.
The Great Divide: Employee Mindset vs. Entrepreneur Mindset
Most people are raised within a “9-to-5 culture.” From a young age, the traditional path is laid out: go to school, get a degree, and find a stable job with a steady paycheck. This creates an employee mindset, where work is equated with immediate compensation and tasks are assigned by a superior.
Amanda points out that those who haven’t been exposed to business culture often struggle with the idea of taking risks. “A lot of people fear the unknown,” she explains. “They’re not really taught how to build; they’re taught how to follow a curriculum.”
In contrast, the entrepreneur mindset involves:
Taking risks on yourself: Moving away from the safety net of a guaranteed salary.
Long-term vision: Understanding that a business is an investment, not just a job.
Self-reliance: Realizing that if you don’t work, the business doesn’t move forward.
The Impact of Local Culture on Business
Maria shares her unique perspective moving from the United States to Canada. In New York City, she found a highly entrepreneurial environment where people were accustomed to being consultants and contractors. They understood that they only made money when they produced results. However, upon moving to Canada, she noticed a much stronger “employee culture,” where high-paying manufacturing jobs (like those at General Motors) created a sense of security that often discouraged people from venturing out on their own.
This cultural difference highlights a common trap: many new business owners expect to be paid like employees from day one. In reality, a business is an asset that takes time to mature.
The Reality of Starting Up: Why You Won’t Get Paid Immediately
One of the harshest truths Maria and Amanda discuss is the financial reality of a new business. Unlike a job where you receive a paycheck at the end of the week, a business may not turn a profit for months—or even years.
“Your business doesn’t happen overnight,” Maria warns. “You may not be able to make any money for a year. Can you survive that?”
To bridge this gap, Maria suggests a practical, “renegade” approach: the multi-job hustle. When she was building her ventures, she worked seven jobs in seven days. She would work on her business during the day or on weekends and work other jobs at night to pay the bills. This level of dedication is what separates those who dream of a business from those who actually build one.
Lessons from Childhood: Building the Entrepreneurial Muscle
Both Maria and Amanda attribute much of their success to lessons learned in their youth. They argue that entrepreneurship and financial literacy should be core parts of the school curriculum, though they rarely are today.
The Power of Junior Achievement
Maria recounts her time in Junior Achievement during grade school. Her group formed a mini-company that manufactured and sold blackboards. As the treasurer and top salesperson, she learned early on how to handle money and how to close a deal. These experiences proved that she could be successful in a competitive environment, regardless of gender or age.
Mastering Skills and Teamwork
Amanda shares a similar story regarding a program called “Battle of the Books.” By reading thousands of books and competing against other schools, her team won $10,000 for their school library. This taught her the value of discipline, mastery, and charity. “You see people who learn these lessons young; they take them through life,” Amanda says. These early wins build the “discipline muscle” required to manage yourself when there is no boss watching over your shoulder.
The Discipline Factor: Being Your Own Boss
The biggest challenge of the entrepreneur mindset is self-discipline. When you own a business, there is no one assigning you tasks or checking your progress. Your success depends entirely on your ability to organize your time and execute your plan.
Key traits for a successful business mindset include:
Commitment: Sticking to the plan even when it gets difficult.
Dedication: Putting in the hours when no one is watching.
Organization: Managing tasks and skills without external pressure.
Consistency: Showing up every day, regardless of how you feel.
Debunking the “Instant Success” Myth
In the age of social media, we are bombarded by influencers claiming to have “10-step blueprints” to get rich overnight. Maria and Amanda are quick to call this out as fake.
“There is no such thing as instant money,” Maria asserts. Many influencers project a lifestyle that is subsidized by other sources or is simply a facade. Real business success is earned through labor, time, and overhead costs. There is no magic formula that replaces hard work.
Amanda compares a business to a young child: “You have to raise it. You’ve got to create it, nurture it, and keep an eye on it.” Just as you wouldn’t expect a toddler to fend for themselves, you cannot expect a new business to support you without significant care and investment.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Shift your perspective: Move away from the employee mindset of “trading time for a paycheck” to the entrepreneur mindset of “building an asset.”
Prepare for the “No-Pay” period: Have a plan (like a part-time job) to sustain yourself while your business grows.
Develop self-discipline: Practice setting and completing tasks without outside supervision.
Seek like-minded communities: Surround yourself with other business owners who understand the journey and can offer support when others doubt you.
Ignore the “Get Rich Quick” noise: Real success takes time, effort, and persistence. There are no shortcuts.
Conclusion
Starting a business is one of the most rewarding challenges you can take on, but it requires more than just a good idea. It requires a renegade mindset—the willingness to defy conventional “employee” wisdom and embrace the risks and responsibilities of ownership. By focusing on discipline, understanding the long-term nature of investments, and staying grounded in reality, you can build a solid foundation for your future.
As Maria and Amanda conclude, education and experience are important, but the inner drive to be an entrepreneur is what truly makes the difference. Stay tuned for more episodes of Business Renegades as we continue to break down the barriers to business success!
Welcome to the very first episode of Business Renegades. In this debut discussion, hosts Maria and Amanda dive deep into the foundation of any successful venture: the business mindset. While many aspiring entrepreneurs focus on what product to sell or what service to offer, they often overlook the mental shift required to move from being an employee to being a business owner.
The transition from a stable 9-to-5 to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship is more than just a career change—it is a total psychological overhaul. In this post, we’ll explore the differences between the employee and entrepreneur mindsets, the reality of business income, and why discipline is the ultimate key to long-term success.
The Great Divide: Employee Mindset vs. Entrepreneur MindsetMost people are raised within a “9-to-5 culture.” From a young age, the traditional path is laid out: go to school, get a degree, and find a stable job with a steady paycheck.
This creates an employee mindset, where work is equated with immediate compensation and tasks are assigned by a superior. Amanda points out that those who haven’t been exposed to business culture often struggle with the idea of taking risks. “A lot of people fear the unknown,” she explains. “They’re not really taught how to build; they’re taught how to follow a curriculum.”
In contrast, the entrepreneur mindset involves:Taking risks on yourself: Moving away from the safety net of a guaranteed salary.
Long-term vision: Understanding that a business is an investment, not just a job.Self-reliance: Realizing that if you don’t work, the business doesn’t move forward.The Impact of Local Culture on BusinessMaria shares her unique perspective moving from the United States to Canada. In New York City, she found a highly entrepreneurial environment where people were accustomed to being consultants and contractors. They understood that they only made money when they produced results.
However, upon moving to Canada, she noticed a much stronger “employee culture,” where high-paying manufacturing jobs (like those at General Motors) created a sense of security that often discouraged people from venturing out on their own.This cultural difference highlights a common trap: many new business owners expect to be paid like employees from day one. In reality, a business is an asset that takes time to mature.The Reality of Starting Up: Why You Won’t Get Paid ImmediatelyOne of the harshest truths Maria and Amanda discuss is the financial reality of a new business.
Unlike a job where you receive a paycheck at the end of the week, a business may not turn a profit for months—or even years.”Your business doesn’t happen overnight,” Maria warns. “You may not be able to make any money for a year. Can you survive that?”To bridge this gap, Maria suggests a practical, “renegade” approach: the multi-job hustle. When she was building her ventures, she worked seven jobs in seven days.
She would work on her business during the day or on weekends and work other jobs at night to pay the bills. This level of dedication is what separates those who dream of a business from those who actually build one.Lessons from Childhood: Building the Entrepreneurial MuscleBoth Maria and Amanda attribute much of their success to lessons learned in their youth. They argue that entrepreneurship and financial literacy should be core parts of the school curriculum, though they rarely are today.
The Power of Junior Achievement
Maria recounts her time in Junior Achievement during grade school. Her group formed a mini-company that manufactured and sold blackboards. As the treasurer and top salesperson, she learned early on how to handle money and how to close a deal. These experiences proved that she could be successful in a competitive environment, regardless of gender or age.Mastering Skills and TeamworkAmanda shares a similar story regarding a program called “Battle of the Books.”
By reading thousands of books and competing against other schools, her team won $10,000 for their school library. This taught her the value of discipline, mastery, and charity. “You see people who learn these lessons young; they take them through life,” Amanda says. These early wins build the “discipline muscle” required to manage yourself when there is no boss watching over your shoulder.The Discipline Factor: Being Your Own BossThe biggest challenge of the entrepreneur mindset is self-discipline. When you own a business, there is no one assigning you tasks or checking your progress.
Your success depends entirely on your ability to organize your time and execute your plan.Key traits for a successful business mindset include:Commitment: Sticking to the plan even when it gets difficult.Dedication: Putting in the hours when no one is watching.Organization: Managing tasks and skills without external pressure.Consistency: Showing up every day, regardless of how you feel.
Debunking the “Instant Success” MythIn the age of social media, we are bombarded by influencers claiming to have “10-step blueprints” to get rich overnight. Maria and Amanda are quick to call this out as fake.”There is no such thing as instant money,” Maria asserts. Many influencers project a lifestyle that is subsidized by other sources or is simply a facade. Real business success is earned through labor, time, and overhead costs.
There is no magic formula that replaces hard work.Amanda compares a business to a young child: “You have to raise it. You’ve got to create it, nurture it, and keep an eye on it.” Just as you wouldn’t expect a toddler to fend for themselves, you cannot expect a new business to support you without significant care and investment.Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Shift your perspective: Move away from the employee mindset of “trading time for a paycheck” to the entrepreneur mindset of “building an asset.”Prepare for the “No-Pay” period: Have a plan (like a part-time job) to sustain yourself while your business grows.Develop self-discipline: Practice setting and completing tasks without outside supervision.Seek like-minded communities: Surround yourself with other business owners who understand the journey and can offer support when others doubt you.Ignore the “Get Rich Quick” noise: Real success takes time, effort, and persistence.
There are no shortcuts.ConclusionStarting a business is one of the most rewarding challenges you can take on, but it requires more than just a good idea. It requires a renegade mindset—the willingness to defy conventional “employee” wisdom and embrace the risks and responsibilities of ownership. By focusing on discipline, understanding the long-term nature of investments, and staying grounded in reality, you can build a solid foundation for your future.As Maria and Amanda conclude, education and experience are important, but the inner drive to be an entrepreneur is what truly makes the difference.
Stay tuned for more episodes of Business Renegades as we continue to break down the barriers to business success! Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PhKtIlwNSc Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PhKtIlwNSc Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PhKtIlwNSc Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PhKtIlwNSc
Are you mentally exhausted from trying to make the online business dream a reality? If you have started and stopped more side hustles than you can count, it is time to understand why you quietly fade out instead of crossing the finish line. This article is for the person who is not lazy or unintelligent but is simply tired of the cycle and looking for a path that actually sticks.
In this article, I share the hard truth about why smart and motivated professionals struggle to stay consistent with new ventures. We often prioritize protecting our time and energy as we get older, which leads us to chase shiny objects for emotional relief rather than sticking with one path long enough to see results. I break down the exact mindset shift needed to move from dozens of failed attempts to building a sustainable business that fits into your existing life without requiring a total overhaul of your schedule.
You will learn how to narrow your focus, validate ideas with real human feedback, and embrace the boring but essential tasks that actually drive growth. I also introduce a low-stakes, honest business model using the Skool platform that leverages your current skills, life transformations, or hobbies. Whether it is a skill from your nine to five or a transformation you have personally experienced, you can build a community around it. It is time to stop the cycle of searching and start building something that finally works.
THINGS YOU NEED TO THINK ABOUT:
The cycle of mental exhaustion Why we quietly fade out instead of quitting Protecting your time and energy as you age Shifting your mindset and narrowing focus The power of boring consistency Four areas to find your business idea Getting started with COACHING
If you are ready to stop chasing shiny objects and start building a real business, join my free YOUTUBE community or check out the link in the description to set up a free call to discuss your future business ideas at https://realwealthrealestate.com/ or listen to my radio station to get more free business ideas: https://realwealthradio.ca/ or call 437-600-6860 and leave a message.
Online Business, Side Hustle, Entrepreneurship, Mental Exhaustion, Shiny Object Syndrome, Why Entrepreneurs Quit, Quietly Fading Out, Online Business Burnout, Starting vs Staying in Business, Business for Older Entrepreneurs, Side Hustle Fatigue 2024, Realistic Online Business, Honest Business Models, How to Stick to a Business, Overcoming Procrastination, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Time Management for Business, Avoiding Business Scams, Decision Fatigue, Productivity for Entrepreneurs
The idea of zero investment is both intriguing and liberating. It challenges the conventional notion that starting a business or pursuing a project requires substantial financial backing. Instead, it emphasizes creativity, resourcefulness, and the ability to leverage what I already have at my disposal. This concept resonates with me because it opens up a world of possibilities where I can embark on entrepreneurial ventures without the burden of financial risk. By focusing on my skills, knowledge, and existing resources, I can create value without needing to dip into my savings or take on debt.
Zero investment does not mean that I am embarking on a venture without any effort or commitment. On the contrary, it requires a different kind of investment—one that is rooted in time, energy, and ingenuity. I must be willing to put in the hard work to identify opportunities and utilize my skills effectively. This approach encourages me to think outside the box and find innovative solutions to problems, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey. By embracing this mindset, I can cultivate a sense of empowerment and independence, knowing that I can create something meaningful without relying solely on financial resources.
Identifying your skills and resources
To embark on a zero-investment journey, the first step is to take stock of my skills and resources. This self-assessment is crucial as it allows me to understand what I bring to the table. I often find myself reflecting on my past experiences, education, and hobbies to identify transferable skills that can be applied in various contexts. For instance, I may have developed strong communication skills through public speaking or honed my analytical abilities through academic pursuits. Recognizing these strengths enables me to envision how they can be utilized in a business setting.
In addition to skills, I must also consider the resources available to me. This includes not only tangible assets like technology and workspace but also intangible resources such as my network of contacts and support systems. I often remind myself that even if I don’t have financial capital, I possess valuable connections that can provide guidance, mentorship, or collaboration opportunities. By mapping out my skills and resources, I can create a clearer picture of how to leverage them effectively in my zero-investment endeavors.
Leveraging free online tools and resources
In today’s digital age, the internet is a treasure trove of free tools and resources that can significantly aid my zero-investment journey. From project management software to graphic design platforms, there are countless options available that can help me streamline my efforts without incurring costs. For instance, I often use platforms like Trello or Asana to organize my tasks and keep track of my progress. These tools not only enhance my productivity but also allow me to collaborate with others seamlessly.
Moreover, I can access a wealth of knowledge through online courses, webinars, and tutorials. Websites like Coursera and Khan Academy offer free educational content that enables me to learn new skills or deepen my understanding of specific topics relevant to my ventures. By taking advantage of these resources, I can continuously improve myself and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship. The ability to learn and grow without financial constraints empowers me to pursue my goals with confidence.
Utilizing social media and networking
Social media has revolutionized the way we connect and communicate, making it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to start a venture with zero investment. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram allow me to showcase my skills, share my ideas, and engage with a broader audience. By curating content that reflects my expertise and interests, I can attract potential collaborators or clients who resonate with my vision. This organic approach to networking helps me build relationships based on mutual interests rather than transactional exchanges.
Networking extends beyond social media; it involves actively seeking out opportunities to connect with others in my field or industry. Attending local meetups, workshops, or conferences allows me to engage with like-minded individuals who may offer insights or partnerships that could benefit my endeavors. I often find that these interactions lead to unexpected opportunities—whether it’s a collaboration on a project or valuable advice from someone who has navigated similar challenges. By being proactive in my networking efforts, I can create a supportive community that fosters growth and innovation.
Offering services in exchange for equity or revenue sharing
One innovative approach I’ve discovered in my zero-investment journey is offering services in exchange for equity or revenue sharing. This model allows me to contribute my skills while minimizing upfront costs for potential partners or clients. For example, if I have expertise in marketing, I could offer my services to a startup in exchange for a percentage of their profits or equity in the company. This arrangement not only aligns our interests but also fosters a sense of collaboration and shared success.
This strategy requires careful consideration and negotiation, as it’s essential to establish clear terms that benefit both parties involved. I must ensure that the value of my services is appropriately recognized and that there is a mutual understanding of expectations moving forward. By adopting this approach, I can build meaningful partnerships while simultaneously gaining valuable experience and insights into the workings of different businesses.
Crowdfunding and seeking support from friends and family
Crowdfunding has emerged as a popular method for raising funds without traditional investment routes. Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow me to present my ideas to a global audience and seek financial support from individuals who believe in my vision. While this approach may require some initial effort in creating compelling campaigns and marketing materials, it offers an opportunity to validate my ideas while generating funds without incurring debt.
In addition to crowdfunding platforms, seeking support from friends and family can also be an effective way to gather resources for my projects. While it may feel daunting to ask for help, I often find that those closest to me are willing to lend their support—whether through financial contributions or simply by spreading the word about my endeavors. This personal network can serve as a foundation for building momentum as I embark on my journey toward success.
Bartering and trading for goods and services
Bartering is an age-old practice that remains relevant today, especially for those pursuing zero-investment ventures. By exchanging goods or services directly with others, I can obtain what I need without spending money. For instance, if I possess graphic design skills but require website development assistance, I could offer my design services in exchange for web development work. This mutually beneficial arrangement allows both parties to leverage their strengths while minimizing costs.
Engaging in bartering requires creativity and open communication. It’s essential for me to articulate what I can offer clearly while also understanding the needs of others in the exchange process. By fostering relationships built on trust and reciprocity, I can create a network of individuals willing to collaborate and support one another’s endeavors through barter agreements.
Building a strong brand and reputation through word-of-mouth marketing
As I navigate my zero-investment journey, building a strong brand and reputation becomes paramount. Word-of-mouthmarketing is one of the most powerful tools at my disposal; satisfied clients or collaborators can become advocates for my work simply by sharing their positive experiences with others. To cultivate this kind of organic promotion, I must consistently deliver high-quality services while maintaining open lines of communication with those I work with.
Creating memorable experiences for clients is essential in fostering positive word-of-mouth referrals. Whether it’s going above and beyond in delivering results or providing exceptional customer service, these small gestures can leave a lasting impression that encourages others to recommend me within their networks. By prioritizing relationship-building and focusing on delivering value, I can establish a reputation that attracts new opportunities without relying heavily on traditional marketing methods.
In conclusion, embarking on a zero-investment journey requires creativity, resourcefulness, and determination. By understanding the concept of zero investment, identifying my skills and resources, leveraging free online tools, utilizing social media for networking, offering services in exchange for equity or revenue sharing, exploring crowdfunding options, engaging in bartering practices, and building a strong brand through word-of-mouthmarketing, I can navigate this path successfully. Each step taken reinforces the idea that entrepreneurship does not solely hinge on financial capital; rather, it thrives on innovation, collaboration, and the willingness to embrace challenges head-on.
For more information, or to get in touch with me call me at 437-600-6860 or email mariarekrut@gmail.com.
Good luck on your next business adventure. You can find more business advice by listening to my radio station, REAL WEALTH RADIO at: https://realwealthradio.ca/ as our tag line states: “You come for the music but then you stay for the business advice”. Want more resources? Then visit my website at: https://realwealthrealestate.com/
For more information, or to get in touch with me call me at 437-600-6860 or email mariarekrut@gmail.com.
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