In this episode of the Her Empire Builder Show, Tina Tower dives deep into the critical transition every successful entrepreneur faces—the CEO shift. Tina shares her own business milestones and the mindset and strategy changes that helped her break through growth ceilings, from $300k to $1M, and beyond. This episode is packed with actionable insights for course creators ready to level up and scale their businesses, all while protecting their lifestyle and energy.

Resources:

Join Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join

Free CEO Guide: DM Tina “shift” on Instagram or Facebook for her CEO shift worksheet and weekly CEO meeting guide.

Recommended Article: “1000 True Fans” by Kevin Kelly.

Tool: Monday.com for project management and systems.

• What Is the CEO Shift?

  • Understanding how “what got you here won’t get you there.”

  • The difference between hustling to build your business, and shifting into a CEO mindset for scalable, sustainable growth.

  • Finding your sweet spot for income, responsibility, and lifestyle.

• Milestone Markers and Personal Anecdotes

  • Tina’s evolution at $300k, $1M, and $2M revenue levels.

  • Evaluating the cost versus joy of going to the next level in business.

• Early-Stage Must-Haves

  • Grit and personal hustle: building momentum, forming connections, and delivering exceptional service.

  • Embracing speed, overcoming perfectionism, and learning all roles in the business.

• The Bottleneck and the Shift

  • Recognizing when your current approach has become the bottleneck.

  • Letting go of “doing it all,” and learning to trust team, systems, and processes.

• Thinking Like a CEO

  • Shifting from controlling everything to leading with vision and trust.

  • From reacting to leading intentionally and trusting your own intuition.

  • Letting go of the need to over-deliver out of guilt or fear.

• Optimizing for Scale

  • Streamlining with systems, automations, and AI before hiring more team members.

  • Auditing your role and workload to focus on high-impact tasks.

  • Scheduling dedicated CEO time for strategic planning.

• Energy Management

  • The importance of protecting your energy as the “engine” of your business.

  • Creating habits and boundaries for sustainability and joy.

• Common Traps That Keep Course Creators Stuck

  • Believing no one can do it as well as you can.

  • Over-delivering from guilt/fear.

  • Equating busyness with importance.

  • Confusing growth with scalable leverage.

• Action Steps

  • Audit and delegate tasks.

  • Start documenting and automating systems.

  • Schedule regular CEO reflection/planning time.

  • Clarify your vision and align your offers and audience.

  • Protect your energy with self-care and clear boundaries.

You didn’t come this far to stay small. Define what your next level looks like, align your actions, and don’t stop until you get there. Consistency and evolution are the keys to building a brilliant business and lifestyle.

Where to find Tina:

Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder

This one is extra special 💛 I'm joined by my dear friend Ashleigh Smith, co-founder of Rainbow Sky Creations and fellow teacher-turned-entrepreneur. We studied together at Sydney Uni, shared our early dreams of shaping young minds, and now we've both found new ways to teach beyond the classroom.

In this inspiring conversation, Ash shares how she transitioned from teaching in schools to building a thriving online business that serves educators through practical resources, mini-courses, and an incredible online community. 🌈👩‍🏫

We dive into:
🎓 Letting go of traditional teaching and carving a new path
📚 Creating digital products and courses that truly support teachers
🤝 Building a heart-led brand centered around connection
💡 The mindset shifts from educator to business owner
👩‍👧‍👦 Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship with purpose

Whether you're a course creator, educator, or dreamer ready to grow something meaningful, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and deeply seen.

Want to join us inside Her Empire Builder? We're open NOW!

Check it out >>> https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join

Where to find Tina:

Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder

Where to find Ashleigh Smith:

Website www.rainbowskycreations.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rainbowskycreations/

Mini courses https://rainbowskycreations.com/maths/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/79OKIULuCv9KD97zaUh3eL?si=d66c4c7842af4819

In this episode, Tina Tower dives deep into her personal strategies for achieving maximum productivity while avoiding burnout. She discusses the weekly work structure that allows her to build a thriving business, maintain flexibility and freedom, and keep her creativity and energy levels high. Tina shares her tried-and-tested scheduling methods, the importance of batching tasks, planning for white space and recovery, and how she protects her time, energy, and creative flow. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Tina’s insights will help you design a balanced, productive week that works for you and your lifestyle.

Resources:

Join Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join

Tina Tower Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower

Monday.com: https://try.monday.com/tinatower88

• Setting your week up for success: Structure your week around your energy and creativity levels—Tina uses Mondays for content creation, Tuesdays for calls and people-focused tasks, Wednesdays for deep work, Thursdays for catch-up and miscellaneous tasks, and Fridays for rest and recovery.

• Batching similar tasks: Grouping similar activities together minimizes mental switching, increases focus, and helps you get into a productive flow state.

• Boundaries and expectations: Set clear expectations with your team and clients about when you’re available, and protect your time fiercely to avoid burnout.

• Planning downtime: Intentionally schedule rest and recovery, including extended breaks—Tina takes off the third week of every month unscheduled, as well as four weeks off at Christmas and other holidays throughout the year.

• Working with your energy: Pay attention to your own energy cycles, and don’t push yourself past your limit. Build a schedule that is structured but still flexible enough for “life to happen.”

• Using the right tools: Tina uses tools like Monday.com for task management and relies on simple pen-and-paper for quick idea capture during flow states.

• Personalization is key: Your ideal productivity schedule will look different based on your stage of life and personal values—don’t compare your calendar to anyone else’s.

• Recovery after big pushes: Build in time for recovery after major launches, conferences, or work peaks, rather than jumping right back into intense work.

As we close, Tina reminds us that true productivity comes from working with your energy and priorities, not just doing more. By batching tasks, setting boundaries, and planning real downtime, you can build a business that grows without burning out. Take what fits, make it your own, and design a rhythm that supports both success and balance.

Where to find Tina:

Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder

In this heartfelt and candid episode, Tina celebrates her and Mat’s 20th wedding anniversary by inviting him on the podcast for the very first time! Together, they answer listener questions about life, marriage, parenting, business, and everything in between, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at their unconventional journey as partners, parents, and business collaborators.

From juggling young kids with demanding businesses, to overcoming stereotypes and supporting each other's dreams, Tina and Mat open up about the real challenges and joys of building both a family and an empire together.

Resources:

Join Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join

Tina Tower Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower

• Parenting & Business Juggle:
  Tina and Mat reflect on the toughest seasons when the kids were young, acknowledging how much easier life gets as children grow up. They share advice about hiring help and leveraging time during demanding phases.

• Working & Living Together:
  The couple discuss the reality of being in close proximity day after day and how they’ve learned to give each other space (different offices are key!), respect each other's routines, and focus on shared goals.

• Communication in Uncertain Times:
  With some real talk on the early, uncertain years of Tina’s business, they recount the importance of over-communicating, trusting each other, and knowing when to discuss—and when to let go.

• Breaking Stereotypes:
  Mat opens up about the societal perceptions and family opinions about working for his wife, and how he’s dealt with the traditional “breadwinner” expectations.

• Happiness & Marriage Longevity:
  Both admit marriage isn’t always easy and share how actively working on their relationship, communicating openly, and allowing each other to grow have been crucial for their happiness.

• Their Kids’ Perspective:
  Tina and Mat chat about how their roles have influenced their sons, focusing on valuing individuality over stereotypes and showing that success and happiness look different for everyone.

• Adventure Stories:
  Get a laugh (and a cringe!) as they recount the weirdest things they’ve ever eaten while traveling through Mongolia and China.

As Tina and Mat’s stories show, building a business and a life together comes with its own challenges, laughter, and lessons—but it’s the ongoing commitment to communication, respect, and shared adventure that keeps it all working. From parenting to partnership, they remind us that success isn’t about fitting into stereotypes, but about creating a life that feels true to you.

Where to find Tina:

Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder

Tina Tower celebrates the milestone 300th episode of the Her Empire Builder Show by sharing the top 10 lessons she’s learned from creating, evolving, and sustaining her podcast over the years. Whether you’re a long-time listener or new to the show, Tina gives a behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of the podcast, the flexibility of its branding, and her personal journey as a podcaster. She offers actionable advice for anyone looking to start or grow their own podcast, plus a candid look at the wins, experiments, and occasional missteps in her podcasting career.

Resources:

Join Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join

1. You Can Change Name & Format Anytime

   • The show has undergone several name and format changes. Don’t get stuck—if you feel inspired to change, go for it! Evolving is natural.

2. Solo Episodes Build Credibility

   • Interviews are great for reach, but solo episodes cement you as a thought leader. Don’t be afraid to put yourself at the forefront.

3. Interviews Expand Your Reach

   • Guests bring new perspectives and audiences, but be intentional with your choices.

4. It Has to Be on Video Now

   • Video podcasting is becoming essential, even if it’s more effort. The benefits for reach and repurposing content are worth it.

5. You Can Take a Break, But Consistency Wins

   • Breaks are okay (and sometimes necessary), but growth comes from long-term consistency.

6. Batch Your Content

   • Recording several episodes in one go is a lifesaver and keeps quality high.

7. It’s 1000% Worth It

   • Podcasting builds amazing relationships, authority, trust, and is integral for business growth.

8. Done Is Better Than Perfect

   • Don’t wait for perfection—get started and improve as you go. Early episodes will reflect your growth.

9. Your Podcast Becomes Part of Your Legacy

   • You’re documenting your journey and wisdom—this free resource for others is meaningful and lasting.

10. Show Up Like People Are Listening (Even When They’re Not)

    • Treat every episode like it matters, even in the early days with a small audience. Growth comes over time, and your content will reach people long after it’s published.

As Tina marks this 300-episode milestone, it’s clear her podcasting journey is one of growth, experimentation, and impact. From evolving formats and embracing video to balancing consistency with flexibility, the lessons she shares highlight both the challenges and incredible rewards of podcasting. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep into your own show, Tina’s insights serve as a reminder that podcasting is more than content creation—it’s about building authority, creating connection, and leaving a lasting legacy.

Where to find Tina:

Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder

In this episode, Tina Tower takes us behind the scenes of running live events and shares the real, raw truth about what it takes—from the glamorous highlights to the logistical and emotional challenges. Drawing on 13 years of experience and over 40 live events, Tina offers practical tips, cautionary tales, and encouragement for anyone thinking about hosting their own event.

Resources:

Join Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/join

1. Running Live Events is a Lot of Work

• Events are incredibly rewarding, but definitely not the easiest way to build your profile or business.

• Preparation is everything—good events take months of planning, and unexpected challenges always pop up.

• The behind-the-scenes workload is mostly invisible to attendees.

2. Energy Management is Crucial

• Live events are an “energy exchange” between host, team, and audience.

• Tina shares how her energy and even her cycle can dramatically affect her, and stresses the importance of optimizing rest, nutrition, and recovery time.

• It’s natural to feel depleted after giving it your all—factor in downtime to recharge.

3. Tech Issues Are Inevitable

• Something will go wrong: AV, microphones, projectors, music... the list goes on.

• Plan for problems, have backups, and most importantly, stay calm. The audience will take their cue from you.

4. Create a Memorable Experience

• People remember how you made them feel rather than what you said.

• Focus on every touchpoint—from music choices to signage, food, comfort, and connection opportunities.

• Surprise and delight attendees for a lasting impression and growing expectations.

5. Be Realistic About Finances

• You can lose or make money on events, so start with a clear goal: profit, marketing, or connection.

• Budget for ALL expenses (hidden costs add up fast) and be strategic about ticket pricing.

6. You Need a Support Team

• You can’t (and shouldn’t) do it all yourself.

• Trusting and empowered team members are essential—especially someone who can calmly handle curveballs on event day.

7. Nothing Beats In-Person Connection

• Live events foster game-changing breakthroughs, loyalty, and deep community—the magic is in the room.

• Events turn followers into friends.

8. Design Events That Reflect You

• Don’t copy others; infuse your event with your personality, values, and ideal style.

• Make decisions (like event timing!) that support your energy and wellbeing.

9. You’ll Always Keep Learning

• Every event teaches you something new. Experience builds confidence and systems—embrace the growth.

If hosting a live event is on your dream list, go for it—planned thoughtfully, it’s exhausting but “absolutely freaking magic.” Tina encourages listeners to seek support, leverage resources, and, most importantly, focus on creating an unforgettable experience for your community.

Where to find Tina:

Her Empire Builder: https://www.herempirebuilder.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tina_tower/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@herempirebuilder