Lead When Others Pause [EP:221]

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Slow seasons have a way of making people freeze. Owners hesitate. Teams lose momentum. Decisions get postponed while everyone waits to “see what happens.” But the truth is simple: nothing changes when you pause; everything changes when you lead.


In this episode, we talk about how to stay in motion when business feels slow. We break down why slow periods are often misdiagnosed, how mindset and leadership energy impact your team more than you realize, and why this time of year can actually be one of the most valuable windows for growth if you use it intentionally.


We also talk about knowing your numbers, using downtime to train and systemize, creating momentum instead of waiting for it, and why busy weeks are not a reason to take your foot off the gas. This conversation is about shifting from reaction to leadership, even (and especially) when things feel uncertain.


Your business should serve you, so that you can serve others. 


Leadership doesn’t show up when things are easy — it shows up when it would be easier to wait.


Key Takeaways

• Slow seasons don’t hurt businesses — inaction does.
• Leadership energy matters more than words during downtime.
• Shiny new ideas won’t solve foundational business problems.
• Knowing your numbers reduces stress and clarifies decisions.
• Downtime is the best time for training, systems, and planning.
• Busy weeks still require marketing, content, and follow-through.
• Repeating “this month is always slow” guarantees it stays that way.
• Momentum comes from small, intentional actions — not waiting.
• Mentorship and outside perspective help you regain focus.
• Progress doesn’t require perfect conditions, just movement.

Time Stamps


00:00 — Welcome + why this episode is intentionally relaxed
01:00 — Jen’s opening take: self-care, sustainability, and planning ahead
04:00 — Todd’s opening take: shiny objects don’t fix real problems
07:00 — Why pausing during slow seasons makes things worse
10:00 — Leadership during downtime: keeping teams in motion
13:00 — Training, laundry, content, and creating positive momentum
16:00 — Why blaming the economy doesn’t help your business
18:00 — Knowing your numbers changes everything
21:00 — Reading your P&L and removing financial anxiety
23:00 — Busy weeks vs slow weeks — both require leadership
26:00 — Marketing, content, and staying visible year-round
29:00 — Fixing “October is always slow” thinking
32:00 — Automation, systems, and building stability
34:00 — When you feel stuck: get outside your echo chamber
36:00 — Mentorship, focus, and staying in forward motion
39:00 — Final thoughts + holiday reset


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