We had the good fortune of connecting with CARLYN BUSHMAN and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi CARLYN, do you have a budget? How do you make lifestyle and spending decisions?
This is such a great question this time (or anytime) of the year! There are four key pillars in my business when working with female entrepreneurs: finance, marketing, technology, and management.

I am currently building out my budget for 2024. This helps me make better decisions in my business as it relates to my team, business investments, and growth opportunities.

By creating a business budget, this reduces my stress and anxiety around key financial decisions and frees up space to dedicate to the growth of the clients I serve. Financials are such a large part of your business and knowing your numbers really helps in the understanding of ‘staying in business!’

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart from others is my multifaceted journey in the business world. I wear multiple hats, including being a mom and a wife, which has given me a unique perspective on balancing life and business.

I’m most proud of my ability to transition from the corporate world to running small businesses successfully. Climbing the corporate ladder taught me invaluable skills in marketing, management, technology, and business financials.

However, the transition to entrepreneurship was not easy. I faced numerous challenges, from initial startup struggles to managing small businesses from scratch. Starting your own business and “staying” in business are two different challenges. My experience at corporate was helpful however, in a small business you have to really figure out how to delegate and what to delegate!

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. Overcoming these challenges required a strong determination to adapt, learn, and persevere (and not take things personally). This journey has honed my skills and deepened my understanding of the complexities of business operations and more importantly, learning more about myself.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am dedicated to supporting women-owned small businesses. My mission is to help them create reliable and sustainable revenue streams to STAY in business.

I bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in both corporate and entrepreneurial spheres, making me uniquely positioned to guide others on their business journeys.

Most importantly, you started this business with a brilliant idea! My goal is to continue to grow and develop that idea and have FUN throughout the journey of entrepreneurship.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would love to start with I LOVE to share this beautiful community with my family and friends! I have lived in the Phoenix area since 1987. I have moved away a few times only to return and incredibly happy when making that decision!

There have been so many changes to the Valley since living here and so many new and exciting places to visit.

A fun itinerary would include live music at Eddie V’s in the Scottsdale Quarter on Thursday nights, followed by a great hot yoga session at True Hot Yoga Friday morning! Following this, a quick stop at AJ’s for a much needed iced tea! The tough decision would be to stay in the Valley or head up to Sedona for a day trip to hike and visit Los Abrigados! If the decision is made to go to Sedona – a must is to book a reservation at Mariposa (preferably at sunset)! The views are incredible and Lisa Dahl (chef) blesses us with her creative and latin inspired menus.

Returning back to the Valley, and feeling the need for more outdoor activities, head over to Camelback Mountain (Echo or Cholla Trails) or the McDowells (Lost Dog or Sunrise Trails) to experience fantastic views of the Valley.

A few hotspots if you can fit them in: Herb Box for lunch, Sumo Maya for dinner and an energetic atmosphere, and Wildflower for a quick chopped salad with salmon fix!

Lastly, the shopping is delightful! Wandering through the Scottsdale Quarter, Kierland, and Scottsdale Fashion Square provides so many options. I love local boutiques as well! Jules & JC has fabulous brands and so many options for every budget! The owners are dedicated to their customers!

If the preference is a good Farmer’s Market, McDowell Mountain Community has lots of options on the first Sunday of each month and the Old Town Scottsdale Farmer’s Market is an experience.

As you can see, it truly depends on the time of year for the visit! The options are limitless and I am a huge fan of living in the Valley!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am incredibly fortunate to have had the support and guidance of some amazing individuals in my journey. I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to the following people:

Randy Bushman – My husband, my rock, and my biggest fan. His unwavering support has been the cornerstone of my success.

Deb Boulanger – My business coach, whose expertise and mentorship have played a pivotal role in shaping my business strategies and vision.

Alice Brewer – A trusted confidante and friend, Alice has been there through thick and thin, providing valuable insights and emotional support.

Sarah Sommerville – A brilliant member of my team, Sarah’s dedication and skills have contributed significantly to our achievements.

Alicia Darrow – My sister, who has always pushed me to grow personally and never settle for mediocrity.

Each of these individuals has played a unique and essential role in my journey, and I’m truly grateful for their presence in my life. Their support, encouragement, and love have been instrumental in my success.

Website: https://carlynbushmanconsulting.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlynbushman/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlynbushmanconsulting/

Image Credits
Photography Credits: Tammy Zelez Photography Makeup Credits: Sparkle Bar, Scottsdale Wardrobe Credits: Spoken Style, Amber Bender Hair Credits: Dry Bar, Scottsdale Quarter

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