Running a successful business isn't always sunshine and rainbows. I'm getting real about my 2024 journey — from a failed launch to juggling a wedding, honeymoon, and house purchase. I learned the most important lesson: that dry spells are actually invitations to level up.

I'm sharing how I transformed my own business plateau into powerful insights about pricing, marketing, and most importantly, trusting my intuition. Whether you're questioning your prices, feeling pressure to market aggressively, or just trying to figure out your next move, this episode cuts through with what I wish someone had told me.

Forget the cookie-cutter advice. Let's talk about what actually works for YOUR unique business DNA, from human design to finding your natural sales style. Plus, I'm busting the myth that you need to hustle harder when business slows down (spoiler: sometimes doing less is the answer).

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In this episode, we discuss:

Why traditional marketing advice might be sabotaging your success
The truth about pricing (and why your gut feeling matters more than market research)
What should you focus on during a business dry spell?
How to know when it's time to invest vs. when to pull back
The real reason most business owners struggle during dry spells
Why detaching from your business might be the key to growth

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Key Takeaways

️ Introduction to Dry Spells in Business (00:00–11:01)

Pricing challenges during business dry spells
Importance of gut feeling in initial pricing
Impact of personal beliefs on business success
Introduction to Side Note podcast
Reflection on 2024 business performance
Importance of understanding personal and macroeconomic factors
Need to examine internal and external forces affecting business

Marketing and Brand Strategy (11:01–21:11)

Importance of reconnecting with personal strengths during dry spells
Using tools like human design and Clifton Strengths Finder for self-understanding
Focus on the 'I' before the 'do' in business decisions
Importance of processing emotions before making significant decisions
Need for foundational brand work before marketing efforts
Importance of clear mission, values, and product/service offerings

Business Investment and Pricing Strategies (21:12–32:54)

Identifying gaps in business operations
Importance of team communication and resource allocation
Pricing strategies for products vs. services
Finding the right price point that feels good
Detaching personal self-esteem from business performance
Importance of taking breaks and gaining perspective

About your host: Samantha Fackler is an Executive Leadership Coach and Marketing Advisor who transforms how women entrepreneurs grow a freedom-based business. After scaling 100+ companies over 12+ years with both Fortune 500 companies (think Apple, PayPal, LinkedIn) and early-stage founders, she brings a rare blend of corporate strategy and holistic leadership to help you scale intentionally. Her approach? Building aligned, profitable businesses without the burnout narrative. Because success shouldn't cost you your wellbeing.

Watch: HOW TO SCALE Masterclass Replay (FREE for a limited time)

Free Guide: Common Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make in Marketing (& How to Fix Them)

Join Sam's Mastermind Group for Women Entrepreneurs: Apply here

Mentioned in this episode:

Eisenhower Matrix - Free Prioritization Tool

Connect with Sam:

Instagram: @growwith_sam

TikTok: @sidenotepod

Website: www.growwithsam.com

YouTube: @sidenotepod

Have a transformation story worth sharing? Top-tier women entrepreneurs can apply to be a guest at sidenotepod.com.