The Organized Creative: Time Management Solutions for Busy Creative Business Owners

122. Smart Strategies for Small Business Owners to Balance Work and Family

Lydia Fine is a lifestyle photographer based in North Liberty, Iowa, specializing in families, seniors, and newborns. With over 22 years of marketing experience and a marketing degree and MBA from the University of Iowa, Lydia brings a unique perspective to running her fast-growing photography business while continuing her work in marketing. She’s passionate about teaching photographers how to uplevel their marketing, book more clients, and use systems and technology to spend less time on the backend of their businesses.
When she’s not working, Lydia enjoys playing pickleball, kickboxing, and tackling jigsaw puzzles—and she dreams of one day solving the Wordle in a single try.
In this episode, Lydia shares how she balances multiple roles and responsibilities while breaking traditional rules of entrepreneurship. She reminds us that success doesn’t have to follow a set path—photography doesn’t have to be your sole job, and social media isn’t the only way to advertise.
In this episode, we’ll explore:
How to automate repetitive tasks to save time and reduce stress
Smart outsourcing: Identifying which tasks to delegate for maximum impact
The power of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems in running a smooth business
Optimizing your Google Business Profile for local SEO to appear in "near me" searches
Lydia’s journey proves that you can create a business and a life that works on your terms. Tune in to hear her tips, insights, and strategies for thriving as an entrepreneur.
Connect with Lydia:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
Free guide: How to Get More Clients with Google Reviews 
Template shop, mentoring/coaching, and more free resources  
 
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121. From Survival Mode to Structure: Brittnie's Journey in Time Management

In this episode, I answer listener questions and share my insights and personal journey in managing time, balancing work and family, and staying grounded during the busy holiday season. I discuss my evolving approach to planning with young children and my strategies for maintaining peace during Christmas. My reflections offer listeners practical advice and encouragement to prioritize self-care while setting realistic expectations.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Power of Consistent Planning
I emphasize the importance of dedicating time each week for planning, regardless of the specific method I use. For me, Mondays work best because they provide fresh motivation, and I encourage others to find their own rhythm for planning.
I also share how my planning practices have evolved since I created my planner. I transitioned from survival mode to a more structured approach, which helped me stay organized amidst the chaos.
2. Brittnie’s Time Management Journey
Reflecting on my journey over the past five years, I’ve seen how implementing routines has transformed my daily life. I believe starting morning and evening routines earlier would have made a significant difference for me. I remind myself that challenging phases in life are temporary. 
I’ve also learned to let go of non-essential tasks to reduce stress and focus on what truly matters.
3. Navigating Family Life and Independence
Balancing family dynamics has been an ongoing challenge for me. At first, I thought toddlerhood would be the hardest phase, but I've realized that the demands of my older children and their activities are just as challenging, if not more so. I try to navigate my roles at work and home while making sure to spend quality time with my husband and take care of myself, all amidst our family responsibilities.
4. Time Management Strategies
I outline my key strategies for effective time management, which include time blocking, using a planner, and utilizing organizing apps. I also have cleaning routines and morning and evening rituals that help me maintain order and reduce stress.
By establishing systems in my business, I’ve streamlined client tasks, which allows me to focus more on my family during busy periods. 
5. Managing Stress and Finding Peace During Christmas
I simplify the Christmas season by setting boundaries and lowering my expectations. Growing up in a large family taught me the importance of prioritizing family time, so I now spend Christmas mornings at home with my immediate family. 
I encourage you to find your balance and create a peaceful holiday. For me, this means wrapping up work early in December, skipping the Elf on the Shelf tradition, and focusing on the season's true meaning.
Submit your questions for the next Q+A episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/capturethechaospodcast
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2025 Planner Reveal:  Watch it here !
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120. Overcoming Struggles: Mindset, Time Management, and Finding Balance

In this episode, Brittnie welcomes Ashley, a motherhood and business coach, to discuss mom entrepreneurs' common struggles. They explore topics including imposter syndrome, self-doubt, time management, and the challenges of balancing family life with a growing business. Ashley shares her experiences with a scarcity mindset, and both women emphasize that these struggles are universal among mothers. This episode provides encouragement and practical advice for moms who aspire to thrive in both their family and business lives.
Highlights:
Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt: Ashley reveals how she and 75% of attendees at a recent event felt imposter syndrome or self-doubt, showing that no one is alone in these challenges.
Time Management and Intentional Prioritization: Brittnie and Ashley discuss the importance of managing time with intention, and sharing personal stories and insights on the journey to becoming more organized.
Balancing Homeschooling and Business: Ashley talks about her strategy of creating an "ideal week" and delegating tasks, while Brittnie relates this approach to principles found in the Capture the Chaos Planner.
Work-Life Balance Tips for Moms: Ashley suggests ways to carve out dedicated work time, such as trading childcare or hiring a sitter, and shares tips on using time-blocking effectively.
Finding Support and Community: Ashley shares Matthew 11:28 as a source of comfort for busy moms and discusses the importance of seeking support. She also introduces her free mini-course, "The Ideal Week Blueprint," available on her website.
Ashley Freehan is a business and motherhood coach for mom business owners. She is also a photographer, podcaster, wife and homeschooling mama saved by grace. She is passionate about helping mamas maximize their limited time, increase profitability and create work/life balance through efficient systems and effective time management strategies. She does this through her top 2% ranked podcast the Organized Mompreneur and her signature group coaching program called The Efficient Mompreneur. 
Connect with Ashley
Instagram: https://instagram.com/thepurposegathering
Facebook: https://www.thepurposegathering.com/mamas
Podcast: https://thepurposegathering.com/podcast/
Website: thepurposegathering.com
Passion to Profit Challenge: https://thepurposegathering.com/challenge
 
Connect with Brittnie:WebsiteInstagramFree Content Planning PagesPurchase The Planner 
The Planner
2025 Planner Reveal:  Watch it here !
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119. From Feeling Unqualified to Fearlessly Thriving in Business with Sharon Stark

In this episode, Sharon and Brittnie explore the realities of entrepreneurship. They discuss the mindset and strategies necessary to start and sustain a business, even during challenging economic times. The conversation includes the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and faith in overcoming obstacles. Additionally, they share their experiences with various platforms and CRM systems.
1. Sharon's Journey and Balancing Multiple Priorities
Sharon, a digital marketing business owner, shares insights from her podcast, Creative Force, where she empowers women in faith and entrepreneurship.
Balancing commitments: Sharon discusses managing her business clients, public speaking, dancing, and volunteering as a prayer minister.
From television editing to digital marketing: Sharon’s entrepreneurial journey highlights the leap of faith required to start her own business.
2. Technical Hurdles and the Value of Adaptation
Sharon and Brittnie discuss the technical issues they encountered with video calls and the importance of adaptability in handling unexpected disruptions.
Overcoming uncomfortable situations to continue learning and adapting to challenges.
3. Entrepreneurship in Difficult Times
Strategies for starting and sustaining a business during tough economic times.
The importance of staying curious, validating ideas, and being willing to pivot based on market demand.
4. Stepping Out of Comfort Zones for Skill Development
Both hosts share personal experiences in overcoming discomfort to learn new skills, including Brittnie’s experience with Premiere Pro video editing software.
5. Mindset, Faith, and Resilience in Business
Sharon shares a biblical story about leaping with faith and overcoming obstacles through trust.
Brittnie reflects on finding purpose through serving others, even when initially feeling unqualified.
6. Overcoming Feelings of Being Unqualified
They discuss the common experience of feeling unqualified, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, taking small steps, and building confidence over time.
7. Platforms, Podcasting, and CRM Systems
Sharon and Brittnie discuss their presence on various platforms, including Creative Force on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Podcasting insights: Brittnie shares her process after producing over 100 episodes.
CRM recommendations: Brittnie recommends Dubsado as a tool for business organization and client relationship management.
Connect with Sharon:
Creative Force Podcast
Sharon on YouTube
Sharon on Instagram
Sharon on Facebook
Free How to Get Unstuck Workbook
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The Planner
2025 Planner Reveal:  Watch it here !
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118. The Power of Simple Routines: Finding Balance as a Busy Entrepreneur and Mom

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the power of routines and how they can bring a sense of balance, especially for busy entrepreneurs and mothers. This year has been a whirlwind for me—juggling business, family, hobbies, and household projects, all while managing the chaos of a recent move.
I’ll share how simple routines, like cleaning the kitchen after breakfast and a weekly house tidy-up, have been game-changers for keeping things in check. While these routines have helped maintain my sanity, I'm now focusing on reintroducing daily exercise to prioritize my health.
As someone with ADHD, I understand the challenge of balancing bursts of productivity with inevitable periods of burnout. That’s why routines are particularly helpful for those of us with ADHD, offering structure without overwhelming. But don’t feel pressured to overhaul everything at once! Start small—make one change at a time, and see how it transforms your daily life.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
How simple routines can create structure in a busy life
The importance of routines for managing ADHD
My personal experience with routines and household management after a big move
The benefits of starting small when making changes to your routine
My current journey in prioritizing health through daily exercise
Connect with Brittnie:WebsiteInstagramFree Content Planning PagesPurchase The Planner 
The Planner
2025 Planner Reveal:  Watch it here !
Grab The Capture The Chaos Planner. Use code CHAOS15 for 15% off your order
Listen to more episodes of the The Organized Creative Podcast!
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117. Small Email Lists, Big Impact with Shannon Vondy

Email marketing—ever heard it's something you should incorporate into your business strategy, but are not sure where to start? The kinds of emails to send, the timing, the frequency, and how to avoid sounding like a used car salesman can be overwhelming. 
Brittnie sits down with email marketing expert Shannon to explore how email can transform your business, especially during challenging times. Shannon shares her inspiring journey into email marketing, which began during the 2020 pandemic when one email brought in $2,600 and helped save her 10-year-old business. Now, she's on a mission to teach others how to harness the power of email to grow their businesses.
What You'll Learn:
Why Email Marketing Works: Discover how email became Shannon's lifeline during a crisis and why it can be a game-changer for your business too.
Tips for Crafting Engaging Emails: Learn how to avoid sounding too salesy by keeping your tone conversational and authentic. Shannon shares why you should write to your email list as if you’re talking to friends.
Finding the Right Balance: Shannon's advice on email frequency, stressing the importance of sending valuable content rather than overwhelming your subscribers with too many emails.
Adding a Personal Touch: Why your emails should go beyond business. Including personal stories, tips, or even favorite recipes can make your messages more relatable and engaging.
Overcoming Challenges: Practical advice for family photographers and service providers who face economic hurdles. Shannon talks about keeping your business enjoyable and letting that energy reflect in your emails.
Building Authority Through Emails: Position yourself as an expert in your field by sharing success stories and how-tos.
The Power of a Small but Mighty List: Why a smaller, more engaged email list can be more impactful than a large, disengaged one.
Key Takeaways:
You don't need a massive list to see significant sales results; quality and connection matter more.
Consistent, valuable, and authentic emails can help you grow your business even during tough times.
Balancing fun and professionalism in your emails can create stronger relationships with your audience.
About Shannon
Shannon (aka Mrs. Vondy and often called The Email Queen) went from burnt out wedding photographer to email obsessed when she sent ONE email and earned $2600. After earning an additional 13k that year from email marketing alone, she created The Email Club. Now, through her Email Club Membership, she's helped hundreds of business owners discover that email is easy, fun and extremely profitable. 
When she isn't talking about email, or mentoring business owners, you can find her snuggled up on the sofa binging Netflix with her husband and their 2 rescue huskies. 💛
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrs.vondy/
Website: https://www.theemailclub.co/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mrsvondy
Grab your free mini eBox: https://www.theemailclub.co/podcast-b
Connect with Brittnie:WebsiteInstagramFree Content Planning PagesPurchase The Planner 
The Planner
2025 Planner Reveal:  Watch it here !
Grab The Capture The Chaos Planner. Use code CHAOS15 for 15% off your order
Listen to more episodes of the The Organized Creative Podcast!
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116. Managing Overwhelming To-Do Lists and Prioritization

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of managing overwhelming to-do lists, especially for busy moms and neurodivergent individuals. We emphasize the importance of prioritizing tasks and offer practical strategies to help you focus on what truly matters.
I share my weekly planning process, which includes categorizing tasks based on urgency and importance using a matrix system. We chat about how to break down your to-do list and outsource or eliminate tasks that don’t contribute significantly to your goals.
Episode Highlights:
Managing Overwhelming To-Do Lists: We discuss the importance of recognizing that it's impossible to do everything and the necessity to prioritize tasks that matter most.
Weekly Planning Process: Learn how we clear our minds every week by jotting down all our tasks and appointments, and then using a matrix system (levels 1-4) to prioritize tasks that drive our business forward.
Task Prioritization for Neurodivergent Brains: For those who struggle with keeping tasks in their minds, we explain how writing things down can help prevent overwhelm and ensure important tasks don’t get lost.
Effective Task Management: We share our top three priorities strategy—focusing on the most critical tasks each day and leaving room for flexibility.
Outsourcing and Delegating: We also discuss the benefits of outsourcing tasks that are urgent but not important, such as bookkeeping or certain emails.
Additionally, we'll talk about insights into the upcoming launch of the 2025 Capture the Chaos Planner, highlighting new features and exclusive discounts.
Get your planners on October 8th when they are 20% off!
The first 20 shoppers will get free shipping.
The very first shopper will receive a $50 Amazon gift card. 
The first 5 shoppers will get a $25 Amazon gift card.
Shop  on launch day you’ll be invited to the virtual planner set-up party in November so I can show you all the best ways to take advantage of the planner!
Join the email list to get exclusive VIP perks
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Save the dates
2025 Planner Reveal: September 9th -- Watch it here !
2025 Planner Launch: October 8th
Listen to more episodes of the The Organized Creative Podcast!
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115. Managing Anxiety in New Motherhood with Kailyn Galloway

In this insightful episode, Brittnie and Kailyn, a licensed primary care physician with expertise in various modalities including botanical medicine, acupuncture, nutrition, and environmental medicine, delve into the often-overlooked topic of managing anxiety in new motherhood. They discuss the non-verbal communication between mother and infant and how a mother’s anxiety can affect her child’s development. Brittnie shares her personal journey with anxiety during the first year of her second child’s life, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for mothers navigating these challenges.
Key Topics Discussed:
New Motherhood and Mental Health Challenges:
Kailyn explains how anxiety and depression in new mothers can be difficult to recognize and distinguish from normal postpartum emotions. She highlights common symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, constant worry, and feelings of being judged. Brittnie shares her own experiences and regrets over missed moments with her children due to anxiety, underscoring the importance of awareness and support.
Challenges in Accessing Mental Health Care:
The conversation touches on the difficulties of accessing mental health care in the U.S. Kailyn discusses the limitations of finding an in-person therapist due to long waitlists, while Brittnie shares her experiences with online healthcare services. They emphasize the importance of building a trusting relationship with a therapist and the need for patience in finding the right fit.
Empathy and Mental Health Experiences:
Brittnie and Kailyn share their personal journeys with mental health, aiming to reduce the stigma around these issues. They stress the importance of empathy, self-awareness, and validation for those suffering from anxiety and depression.
ADHD, Postpartum Experiences, and Normalization:
Brittnie discusses her experiences managing ADHD and how it intersects with postpartum challenges. Kailyn explains the hormonal changes, such as drops in dopamine and the role of oxytocin, that can mimic ADHD symptoms during the postpartum period. They advocate for normalizing these experiences as more common than many realize.
Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship Strategies:
Kailyn shares practical tips for balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, including the importance of structured routines, intentional time management, and prioritizing self-care. They discuss replacing traditional to-do lists with daily routines to manage household tasks more effectively.
Motherhood Experiences and Upcoming Projects:
Brittnie and Kailyn reflect on their experiences as mothers of young children, discussing the challenges and joys of the first two years of motherhood. Kailyn invites Brittnie to share her story on her podcast, while Brittnie announces her plans to pivot to a new photography-based podcast launching in early September.
Key Takeaways:
Anxiety in new motherhood is common but often underrecognized. Awareness and support are crucial.
Accessing mental health care can be challenging, but building a trusting relationship with a therapist is essential.
Empathy, self-awareness, and validation are important in managing mental health struggles.
Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship requires structured routines and intentional time management.
Normalizing postpartum challenges and ADHD is key to reducing stigma and supporting new mothers.
Connect with Kailyn
Dr. Kailyn Galloway is dedicated to helping new moms navigate the anxiety of the postpartum period through reducing shame, providing evidence-based information, and fostering mindset shifts. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges new mothers face, Dr. Galloway equips her clients with the tools they need to embrace this transformative season. Her expertise in postpartum mental health, including anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and postpartum depression, offers invaluable support to those working with new mothers. Dr. Galloway is passionate about sharing her knowledge and empowering mothers and practitioners alike to manage anxious moments and provide compassionate care. She is honored to contribute evidence-based wisdom and insights to those supporting new moms in this critical stage of life.
The New Mom Naturopath Podcast
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Save the dates
2025 Planner Reveal: September 9th -- Watch it here !
2025 Planner Launch: October 8th
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114. Balancing Business & Personal Life Through Planning

In this episode, Brittnie sits down with Alysha, a photographer and mom of a toddler who manages multiple businesses, including a rental studio. They discuss their personal and professional experiences, touching on everything from ADHD struggles to managing multiple ventures with the help of the Capture Chaos Planner. Together, they explore practical tips for staying organized, planning content, and balancing life’s demands.
Key Takeaways:
Before and After Using the Capture Chaos PlannerAlysha describes her shift from using basic planners from Marshalls to adopting the Capture Chaos Planner. She highlights how having everything—tasks, notes, and schedules—in one place has been a game-changer for her productivity and focus.
Planner Challenges & SolutionsAlysha shares the challenges she faced with time-blocking and how she’s adapted by incorporating theme days to stay organized. Brittnie empathizes with her struggles and offers encouragement, acknowledging that time-blocking can be difficult, especially as a mom.
Managing Multiple Businesses & ProjectsThey discuss the challenge of juggling multiple business ventures. Alysha shares how Brittnie’s suggestion to use the monthly content grid for each project has helped streamline her workflow. They also explore strategies for managing multiple social media channels for different businesses.
Prioritizing Daily TasksBoth Brittnie and Alysha emphasize the importance of setting top priorities each day. Alysha explains how this helps her maintain balance and feel accomplished by the end of the week, while Brittnie highlights how focusing on fewer tasks can reduce stress, especially during busy or difficult seasons.
Content Planning & Marketing FocusAlysha discusses how the planner helps her stay accountable with her content planning and marketing strategy. They both stress the importance of having a clear marketing focus while also being flexible enough to manage the present and immediate future.
The Planner as a Tool for BalanceAlysha reflects on how the planner has supported her through personal challenges, including the passing of her father. Brittnie and Alysha agree that the planner not only helps them stay organized but also serves as a tool for managing life’s ups and downs without letting business take over.
Self-Care and Weekly PlanningThe importance of taking things week by week, prioritizing self-care, and how planners can help manage both personal and professional tasks. Alysha opens up about navigating grief, and Brittnie reminds listeners of the importance of connecting and sharing their experiences.
Connect with Alysha
Alysha is multi-passionate mompreneur, living life with inattentive ADHD. She runs a photography business, creative studio rental business and is working to relaunch her mompreneur focused podcast/brand to encourage and serve other mamas who find themselves in the thick of those messy, early years. She does it all mostly from home while raising her busy toddler and trying to keep up with all things life.
Messy Momprenuer Podcast
Instagram
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Save the dates
2025 Planner Reveal: September 9th -- Watch it here !
2025 Planner Launch: October 8th
Listen to more episodes of the The Organized Creative Podcast!
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113. Creating Flexible Routines When You Don’t Like Routines

Let's explore the benefits of establishing regular routines, especially for moms and kids, and how they can help create a sense of balance and organization in daily life. I'll share my own experience of initially being hesitant about routines but eventually recognizing their value, particularly during difficult times. We will discuss the advantages of having clear goals, making routines enjoyable, and the importance of incorporating flexibility to prevent burnout. Using the Capture the Chaos planner, I will explain how to develop sustainable, adaptable routines, with special emphasis on creating morning routines that can positively impact the rest of the day.
Key Takeaways:
The Benefits of Routines in Daily LifeBrittnie discusses how routines, especially for children, can help manage behavior and establish stability. She reflects on a challenging summer when she implemented structured routines for her kids, leading to improved behavior and a more harmonious family life. Contrary to common beliefs, routines can be natural, enjoyable, and customized to individual needs.
Brittnie’s Struggles With Routine MaintenanceBrittnie opens up about her personal challenges in maintaining consistent routines, highlighting issues such as a lack of motivation and conflicting goals. She stresses the significance of aligning routines with specific objectives and making sure they stay enjoyable to prevent feeling overwhelmed or bored.
Preventing Burnout with Daily RoutinesRoutines can reduce stress, improve work-life balance, and promote better physical and mental health. Brittnie highlights how including relaxation time in your schedule is crucial for preventing burnout, which is easier to prevent than recover from.
Fostering Positive Habits with Flexible RoutinesRoutines don't have to be rigid. Brittnie encourages listeners to embrace flexibility, allowing room for unexpected changes or shifts in priorities. She reminds us to give ourselves grace in the process and understand that routines are meant to evolve over time.
Creating Sustainable Morning RoutinesBrittnie breaks down her method for developing a sustainable morning routine, starting small and gradually building habits. She stresses the need to make routines enjoyable and aligned with personal preferences. The Capture the Chaos planner is a helpful tool for tracking progress and staying on course. Flexibility is key—routines should adapt when necessary to keep them effective.
Connect with Brittnie:WebsiteInstagramFree Content Planning PagesPurchase The Planner 
Save the dates
2025 Planner Reveal: September 9th -- Watch it here !
2025 Planner Launch: October 8th
Listen to more episodes of the The Organized Creative Podcast!
Listen on: Apple | Spotify | Google