What actually happens when you set big intentions and circle back six months later? In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina pull back the curtain on the messy reality of entrepreneurship and work-life balance, what stuck, what fell apart, and the surprises they never saw coming.

Revisiting the same three questions they asked themselves half a year ago—what do you want to change, what do you want to start, and what do you want to stop ignoring, Sydney and Audrina share the raw truth of what actually unfolded. From business pivots to personal curveballs, this conversation is part behind-the-scenes catch-up, part roadmap for anyone trying to track their own growth in real time. Expect honesty, a few cringe-worthy confessions, and takeaways that prove progress is never as clean as you imagine.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• What changes actually stuck - and what didn’t - over the past six months
• Why time feels even messier in the thick of entrepreneurship
• The habits and commitments that fueled growth (and the ones that flopped)
• How revisiting the same questions can help you measure progress
• Lessons from both business and life that show growth is rarely linear

 For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and the messy truth of growth, follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Want to share your own “six months later” reflection? DM us on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear it.

Connect with Us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/
Join our newsletter for exclusive tips and behind-the-scenes: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Is working from home the dream, or a disaster for your career? In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina get real about the messy truth of entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and what you actually gain or lose depending on where you work.

 From recovering while sick to showing up anyway, this conversation dives straight into the realities of building a business while navigating the ongoing debate: remote work versus office life. Sydney and Audrina share their raw perspectives on productivity, growth, and connection, whether you’re just starting your career, running multiple businesses, or balancing family and leadership. Expect unfiltered takes, behind-the-scenes stories, and practical insights that challenge the way you think about where and how you work.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• Why working from home can both help and hurt your career
• The benefits of being in the room versus learning remotely
• How environment impacts confidence, growth, and leadership
• Why work-life balance is more complicated than it sounds
• Real stories about showing up in business even on tough days

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and the messy reality of building a business, follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Got your own take on remote vs office life? DM us on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear it.

Connect with us:

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

LinkedIn: 

Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/

Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Time management isn’t sexy, but it can make or break your business. In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina talk about the messy, real side of balancing entrepreneurship, family, and everything life throws at you.

They share their biggest lessons on staying organized when it feels like there’s never enough time, why it’s always something, and how to create systems that actually work. From juggling multiple businesses to raising kids, this episode blends honest behind-the-scenes moments with practical tips you can put into play immediately. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep your head above water while chasing growth, this conversation is for you.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• The unfiltered truth about why time management is harder than people admit
• How to set yourself up for success even in chaotic seasons
• Practical tips for organizing work and life without overcomplicating it
• Why every season of life comes with new demands on your time
• How to shift your mindset so time management feels empowering, not overwhelming
  
  

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and building a business that doesn’t burn you out, follow Swearing By It. Got your own time management hacks? DM us on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear them.

Connect with Us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/
Join our newsletter for exclusive tips and behind-the-scenes: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx 

Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

What if believing in yourself was the biggest strategy move you could make? In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina get real about self-belief, “fangirling yourself,” and why confidence is non-negotiable when you’re building a business and a life.

From leadership lessons to the unglamorous reality of stress-filled nights, they share how learning to back yourself, even before the results show up, can change everything. Expect honest behind-the-scenes stories about growth, risk, and mindset shifts that every entrepreneur will relate to. Whether you’re in the middle of scaling or still questioning if you have what it takes, this episode will remind you why confidence is the foundation of sustainability in business and in life.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• Why “fangirling yourself” is the mindset reset you didn’t know you needed
• How to build confidence before the proof shows up
• The messy reality of entrepreneurship and the mindset shifts that keep you moving
• Why core beliefs shape how you lead and grow
• How to stop second-guessing yourself and start betting on yourself

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, mindset shifts, and the messy reality of building a business, follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Want to share how you fangirl yourself? DM us on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear it.

Connect with Us:
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/
Join our newsletter for exclusive tips and behind-the-scenes: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx 

 Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

What if the only things you really needed to succeed were already inside you? In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina dive into the messy, honest truth about entrepreneurship, core values, and remembering to believe in yourself when life feels overwhelming.

From sleepless nights to stress-dreaming about work, this conversation gets real about the pressure of balancing business growth with personal well-being. Sydney and Audrina unpack how identifying your core values can guide decisions, how “fangirling yourself” is a radical act of confidence, and why self-care is not just a buzzword but a survival tool. Expect practical strategies mixed with vulnerable behind-the-scenes stories about how they navigate leadership, motherhood, and the unglamorous side of running multiple businesses. Whether you’re here for mindset shifts, clarity on your values, or just reassurance that you’re not alone in the chaos, this episode is packed with both inspiration and actionable takeaways.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• Why “fangirling yourself” might be the mindset reset you need
• How core values guide decisions in both life and business
• The hard truth about burnout, stress, and sleepless nights
• Why self-care is essential for sustainable entrepreneurship
• Practical tools to align your work, relationships, and goals

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and building a life that feels good inside and out, follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Want to share your core values or self-care wins? DM us on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn—we’d love to hear it.

Connect with Us:
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/

Join our newsletter for exclusive tips and behind-the-scenes: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx 

Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Who inspires you to keep going when life and business feel overwhelming? In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina get real about the people who have motivated, challenged, and shaped them both personally and professionally.

From powerhouse entrepreneurs to everyday role models, Sydney and Audrina reflect on the women (and men) who’ve influenced their growth as female entrepreneurs. They share how stories of resilience, risk-taking, and authenticity have pushed them to build businesses while navigating the messy reality of life. Expect heartfelt conversations, behind-the-scenes lessons, and a reminder that inspiration often shows up where you least expect it. Whether you’re an entrepreneur searching for motivation, someone rethinking your work-life balance, or simply curious about who fuels their drive, this episode will leave you fired up to chase your own vision.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• Why role models matter in both entrepreneurship and everyday life
• How stories of resilience and authenticity help reframe tough seasons
• The surprising sources of inspiration that shape confidence and leadership
• Why surrounding yourself with the right people is a game-changer for growth
• Practical ways to harness inspiration and apply it to your business and mindset
  
  

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, mindset shifts, and building a life that feels good inside and out, follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Want to share who inspires you? DM us on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear it.

Connect with Us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/

Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Join our newsletter for tips & behind-the-scenes we swear by: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx 

What if you stopped overthinking every decision and simply did it for the plot? Life and entrepreneurship are messy, unpredictable, and full of hard choices, but sometimes the boldest moves lead to the best stories.

In this episode of Swearing By It, Sydney and Audrina open up about the spontaneous, chaotic, and sometimes questionable choices they’ve made—both in business and in life. From unplanned pivots to personal curveballs, they share the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped who they are as women in business and as humans navigating it all. Expect laughs, raw honesty, and powerful lessons on trusting your gut, embracing uncertainty, and finding meaning in the mess. Whether you’re chasing a big dream, making a scary decision, or just need a reminder that you’re not alone in the chaos, this one’s for you.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• Why “do it for the plot” moments often lead to unexpected growth
  
  
• Personal stories of unplanned life decisions that shaped their businesses and relationships
• How to navigate risks without getting stuck in fear or analysis paralysis
• Why embracing imperfection and spontaneity matters in both entrepreneurship and personal life
• The mindset shift that can help you reframe chaos into opportunity
  
  
  

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and building a life that’s real (not polished), follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Got your own “do it for the plot” moment? DM us on Instagram or connect with us on LinkedIn, we’d love to hear it.

Connect with Us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Join our newsletter for exclusive tips and behind-the-scenes: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx

Ever wonder why some conversations flow and others feel like pulling teeth? The way you communicate at work, at home, and everywhere in between, can make or break relationships, teams, and opportunities.

Sydney and Audrina unpack how their personal communication skills shape both business relationships and life at home. From “direct and no-fluff” styles to overusing exclamation points so you don’t sound cold, they share the honest truth about adapting your approach for better connection, team communication, and leadership. You’ll hear real-life stories from women in business, plus actionable communication tips to help you create stronger relationships, whether you’re in a boardroom or a kitchen.  Expect behind-the-scenes stories from business and personal life, plus tips you can use right now to communicate with more clarity, empathy, and confidence.

In This Conversation, You’ll Hear:

• The pros and cons of a “fix-it-first” communication style, and how to soften it without losing efficiency
• Why changing the way you communicate is harder than it sounds (and how to actually do it)
• How to adapt your style for virtual conversations so you don’t come across as cold or blunt
• Why your go-to style might serve you in some areas… and sabotage you in others
• The small tweaks that can completely shift how people respond to you in business and relationships
  
  
  

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, relationships, and the daily reality of “doing it all,” follow Swearing By It so you never miss an episode. Got a communication win (or fail) you want to share? DM us on Instagram or connect with us on LinkedIn.

Connect with Us:
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/

 Join our newsletter for tips & behind-the-scenes we swear by: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx 

Audrina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Would you rather build a business that lets you drop $300 on dinner and buy cute dresses on autopilot… or build an empire that might pay off big someday, but requires scrimping, sacrificing, and seriously uncomfortable money convos along the way?

In this episode, Sydney and Audrina unpack the very real tradeoffs of entrepreneurship, especially when it comes to money, lifestyle, and long-term vision. Audrina shares what it was like to walk away from a cushy corporate salary (and the easy lifestyle that came with it) to build something that lights her up… even if it means budgeting every dollar right now. And Sydney shares what it’s been like to never collect a paycheck from someone else, just risk, reward, and reinvesting it all back in the business.

They also go deep on how to talk money with your team, without oversharing, overcompensating, or accidentally creating chaos. Because open-book leadership is powerful… but transparency still needs boundaries.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

• Why the empire-building path is not glamorous (but can still be the right choice)
  
  
  
• What Audrina gave up (and gained) when she left the paycheck life behind
  
  
  
• Why business owners often overlook the real value of capital, especially when it’s fundraised
  
  
  
• Smart, low-effort ways to start building passive income as a founder
  
  
  
• How to have that awkward equity convo with your business partners (without blowing things up)
  
  
  
• What to do when your favorite employee asks for a raise you can’t afford—and how to keep the relationship strong anyway
  
  
  
• A candid look at how different cultures handle money transparency at work
  
  
  
• The blueprint for having honest money talks with your team: what to share, what to keep private, and how to build trust without giving away the farm
  
  
  
• How to spot early signs that you and your business partner aren’t financially aligned, and why it matters a lot
  
  
  

If you’ve ever wrestled with money guilt, team transparency, or the big question of whether it’s worth sacrificing now to build something bigger later… this one’s for you.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/

Join our newsletter, we swear you’ll love it: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/ 

Is your relationship worth fighting for… or is it time to let go?

You can ask your friends. You can read all the books. But sometimes the only way to really know what’s going on in your marriage… is to live through it.

In this episode, Audrina and Sydney open up about their previous marriages, the hard lessons they learned the messy way, and what they’d do differently if they could do it all again. From unhealthy dynamics to silent resentment to fighting for something that just wasn’t right, they share it all - no shame, no sugarcoating.

A great marriage isn’t “easy.” (That’s a myth.) The tough question is: Are you willing to fight for it?

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

• Why Sydney says her marriage to a good, growth-minded partner is harder, and better, than the one she left
• The advice she gave her brother about marriage (and the one question you have to ask yourself before you commit)
• What to do if you catch yourself constantly pointing the finger at your partner
• How to set expectations early and communicate through hard seasons before things quietly implode
• The one thing that ended both Sydney and Audrina’s marriages, and why it’s more common than you think
• The three relationship killers to watch for… and the one dealbreaker that ends everything
• What Audrina’s relationship looks like now, and what they’ve gotten so much better at
• What they wish they knew about love, partnership, and fighting for something that’s actually worth the work

If you’re in a relationship, out of one, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you tune into what really matters. 

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/

Join our newsletter, we swear you’ll love it: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/ 

Running a business with your partner sounds kinda hot, right? Power couple vibes, shared goals, steamy boardroom banter... until you’re both tired, stressed, snapping at each other over Slack, and the only thing getting pounded is your to-do list.

In this episode, Sydney and Audrina get real about what it’s like to build businesses and relationships with their romantic partners, and how that dynamic shows up in the bedroom. Sometimes it adds fuel to the fire. Other times… let’s just say, business stress isn’t exactly an aphrodisiac.

They don’t stop at the work/love balance. They go there - full stop. Sex, desire, confidence, connection, and self-pleasure. They also touch on why so many people are struggling behind the scenes. 

Did you know?

• Millennials and Gen Z are having less sex than previous generations did at their age, a trend known as the “sex recession.”
• 95% of straight men say they “always” or “usually” orgasm during sex, compared to just 65% of straight women. (Yep. That’s the orgasm gap, and we have thoughts.)
• And communication? It’s consistently ranked as one of the top predictors of a satisfying sex life. So if you’re not talking about it, it’s time to start.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

• The stats on female arousal that explain a lot about why your sex life might feel off (and what you can do about it)
• The dirty little secret: Women love sex. A lot. So let’s start talking about it like grown-ass women
• Why a low-key sex rut can ripple through your whole relationship, and how to get out of it
• What sex really represents (hint: it’s not just about the act)
• Why sex gets way better as you get older
• Audrina and Sydney’s go-to mindset shifts to feel more confident, sexy, and connected
• How to build physical connection when you’re not exactly in the mood but still want to keep the spark alive
• Why low sex drive isn’t a life sentence, and what you can actually do about it
• Pro tips from women for the men who want to step it up in the bedroom (yes, we’re giving you the playbook)

This episode is your permission slip to talk more openly, ditch the shame, and reconnect with your body and your partner, no matter how many businesses, babies, or back-to-back meetings are in the mix.

Because you deserve to feel powerful and turned on—in and out of the office.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/

Join our newsletter, we swear you’ll love it: https://link.summitchasersnetwork.com/widget/form/7XkfV0qriC3EHLqskyyx

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Are you supposed to write out your goals in a spreadsheet with due dates, deliverables, and color-coded categories? Or is it enough to just think about them in the shower and hope for the best?

Turns out… there’s no one right way to do it.

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney pull back the curtain on how they actually set and achieve goals — while raising kids, running multiple businesses, and trying to stick to that morning workout routine. 

They dive into what works for them — from vision boards to quarterly goal rewrites — and why it’s totally okay to pivot when a goal just isn’t clicking anymore.

So if your goal-setting style doesn’t include a whiteboard or a perfect planner, don’t panic — this week’s episode is still for you.

In This Conversation:

• How to make big, overwhelming goals feel doable — and actually start making progress
  
  
• Why manifestation is B.S. if you don’t do this one thing
  
  
• A behind-the-scenes story of how Sydney manifested her dream home — and the mindset shift it required
  
  
• Why businesses can’t outsource all their marketing — and how to breathe authenticity
  
  
• What’s currently on Audrina’s vision board (hint: it’s bold)
  
  
• How rewriting your goals every quarter (like Sydney does) can keep you aligned, grounded, and on track
  
  

Whether you’re a spreadsheet person, a post-it-note person, or a “dream about it and hope for the best” person — this episode will help you rethink how you approach your goals and give yourself permission to do it your way.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/ 

Is it even possible to raise happy, confident kids and run a business (or three)? What do you do with the guilt that creeps in when you’re sending emails instead of playing with Montessori toys? And honestly… does it really matter who spends the most time with your kids, as long as someone’s giving them one-on-one attention?

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney open up about their messy, guilt-ridden, yet incredibly rewarding experiences with balancing parenting and entrepreneurship. Sydney’s a mom of two toddlers, and Audrina’s a stepmom of two—and between answering work emails, trying to get their kids to eat, and feeling guilty about screen time, they’re wondering the same things you are:

“Am I messing this up?”
“Am I doing enough?”
“What even is enough?”

They get real about screen time struggles, wondering if it’s okay to hire lots of help (spoiler: it so is), and what they wish they could give their kids but can’t right now. And they also share some mindset shifts that help them drop the shame, zoom out, and remember: you don’t have to do it all to be doing it right.

In This Conversation:

• Why boredom is actually a blessing—and how letting your kids feel it can stir creativity (and give you a minute to breathe)
  
  
  
• A mindset shift that’ll help you stop comparing yourself to the “perfect moms” and trust your own methods and priorities
  
  
  
• What psychologists say about how involved you really need to be (hint: you’re probably doing more than enough)
  
  
  
• The big question: Can you outsource some of the parenting if their caretaker is really damn good at their job (and has a degree in children’s studies)?
  
  
  
• The difference between guiding your kids vs. fixing everything for them—and why the former builds resilience
  
  
  

Here’s the truth: You’re not failing. You’re building a life—for yourself and your family. Sometimes it looks messy. And you're doing great. 

So if you’ve ever cried over feeling like you’re not doing enough (or cried because the kids are fighting over who gets to scoop the dog poop), this one’s for you.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/ 

What if you automatically believed things would work out for you, instead of expecting things to blow up in your face?

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney talk about reframing and shifting your mindset by believing that everything is going to fall into place. The more good vibes you put out there, the more you’ll see those things coming towards you. And they’ll just keep rollin’ in. (This topic was sparked by Audrina’s exciting news that she’s now got a house in Vegas!)

A key theme in this episode is gratitude. What are you grateful for right now? Sydney and Audrina discuss how they reground and reframe their mindsets to be more positive, especially when things feel rough. Audrina and Sydney also share what they’ve found out about themselves by going from having so much to so little… and why it’s the best thing that could have happened to them. Here’s the key takeaway: Dig into the root of what makes you truly happy, then chase more of that.

It’s not just about ‘thinking’ positively though, it’s about taking aligned actions to actually make those things happen. When things don’t work out as you expect (because that’s life!), respond with: ‘What do I need to learn in this moment?’. An error at The Hive led to Sydney crying into the ocean… then immediately picking herself up and working out how to fix it. (Her positive mindset helped her solve the problem so much faster than if she stayed stuck on the negatives.)

In This Conversation:

• Audrina and Sydney share how they’re embodying a more positive, grateful mindset by really celebrating small wins and focusing on the everyday moments that often get overlooked (from clients paying on time to treating yourself to a coffee). Be excited about the small things, don’t diminish them!
• Sydney reflects on why you have to keep moving when things get hard, because it’s preparing you for what’s to come. (It’s all part of your journey.) Shifting your mindset to start embracing things coming more easily isn’t easy, but if you take the action steps, the proof will unfold.
• Audrina explains why it’s so helpful to have constant reminders that pop up on your screen. (Listen in to find out what her daily mantras are!)
• Sydney and Audrina wrap up by exploring what their lives would look like if they were the luckiest girls in the world. (Hint: They don’t want the world, just for their worlds to feel easier, more settled, and more secure.)

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

So, if you were the luckiest person in the world, what would your life look like in six months? Have a think and reflect on it, and if you feel comfortable, come and share your thoughts on Instagram or LinkedIn!

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/ 

Resources We Mentioned:
Chloe Elise’s Deeper Than Money podcast

Do you find it easier to hire people or fire people? 

In today’s episode, Sydney and Audrina discuss the tricky topics of finding new employees and letting go of wrong-fit ones. Lots of pivots, changes, and rearranges have been happening at The Hive, so this topic is truly topical. Hiring might seem like the easier side, but it’s really not. You’re going to make mistakes, and that’s okay. It’s all part of the process: fail, learn, and then pivot.

Audrina and Sydney share their hiring processes and the key things you need to consider. Of course, you need to think about the scope of the role and what you want the person to achieve... but it’s also about being aligned with values and soft skills too. And it’s important to hire for diversity, not just in terms of gender or skin color, but in the way their brain works. What’s the point in having someone just like you who matches your skillset? Audrina’s tip is to look for people who fill the gaps.

Learning to trust your gut will save you so much heartache in the long run. If you sense someone isn’t the right fit, just let them go. You’re not just doing yourself a disservice by hiring them (wasting time, money, and resources), you’re actually holding them back from being 100% happy. At the end of the day, when you’ve got the right people, everything feels easier. Sydney downsized from 12 people to 5… and those were the happiest days they ever had in the company.

In This Conversation:

• Audrina talks about weighing up experience versus drive. If someone has the right attitude and they’re hungry to grow with your company, does it matter if they haven’t got the perfect resume? (Sydney agrees, but she didn’t before.)
• Sydney touches on why you shouldn’t hire people in your immediate network. (Just because you adore someone, it doesn’t mean they’re going to excel in the role you want them to fill...)
• Audrina and Sydney chat about how to know if you’ve got the right people or if it’s time to clean house and start again. Sydney’s advice is to document how everything’s going. If things feel clunky and you’re having to get too involved, that could be a tell-tale sign something’s not right. But if you do have the right people? Treat them like gold.
• On the flip side, Sydney and Audrina talk about what to do when someone calls upon you as a reference when they’re considering hiring someone. Real talk: Honesty is always the best policy.

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/ 

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

How do you switch back and forth between your different roles?

In today’s episode, Audrina and Sydney are flipping the switch from talking business with a sprinkle of life to talking about life with a sprinkle of business. From juggling step- and biological kids (and the unique challenges that come with that) to living in different places, moving across countries with kids and animals, AND running multiple businesses, life can be chaotic (that’s an understatement…). Mistakes are going to happen, but it’s all about learning from them.

With so many things happening in our lives, it can be hard to work out what to prioritize and where to put the most value. You’ve got to think about how to best take care of yourself, your partner, your kids, your dogs, your businesses… it’s not easy. There’s no one perfect solution, it’s about figuring it out along the way, accepting it’s a constant work in progress, and learning to put yourself first. (But if you *do* have the perfect solution, we’re all listening…)

This episode neatly summarizes the purpose of this podcast—it’s a safe space to share what’s really happening behind the scenes, so you know you’re not alone. It’s not about knowing all the answers, it’s about sharing experiences of what works (and what doesn’t) so you can take what’s helpful. We’re all human, and that sometimes means having stomach issues, arguing with your spouse, dealing with fertility struggles… then getting on a call to talk client strategy. But being happy in the chaos is so much better than being miserable in the calm.   

In This Conversation:

• Sydney touches on the mistake she made with her hostel and how she’d handle it differently. (Spoiler: It involved being too kind when firing everybody…)
• Audrina shares why it’s important to separate your ego so you can weigh up the benefits of your decisions when running a business. Is it better to do the difficult thing now and deal with the consequences, or put it off and face different issues down the line?
• Audrina and Sydney discuss what they’re doing for their relationships, including setting boundaries, hearing your partner out, and learning to balance different communication styles (under-communication versus over-communication).
• Audrina talks about the major changes happening in her life and how she and her partner, Zach, are navigating their new normal (starting with getting across the US border in a trailer with dogs…).

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear. 

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/ 

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

How would you handle working with your life partner as your business partner?

In this week’s episode, Sydney and Audrina dive into the ins and outs of managing relationships and navigating complex situations around working alongside family and friends—including juggling kids while running a business. They offer handy tips and tricks from everything they’ve figured out along the way, so you can make your personal and working life run so much smoother. (Hint: it’s all about communication.)

There are lots of simple tools you can use for good communication, like taking time to pause when things start getting stressful. Learning to pick your battles, deciding which hills to die on (and which ones aren’t a big deal), and taking the time to explain your vision and your reasons—instead of brushing your thoughts and feelings aside—makes such a difference. Another great tool is letting each other know what ‘number’ (energy level) you’re at so you can help each other out. It can be hard to bounce between work and life stuff, so literally call it out and label where you’re at: ‘Business partner hat is going on right now.’

Having a successful working relationship with your partner comes from the foundational relationship-building effort outside of work. You need to be able to truly listen to your partner and respect each other’s boundaries, otherwise unaddressed issues can bleed into work *and* regular life. It’s really important to have space for regular conversations and to discuss difficult things upfront because they won’t get better unless you change your approach.

In This Conversation:

• Audrina and Sydney talk about why you need to have your own roles (and even separate departments!) when working with your partner. Make sure you understand each other’s skills and strengths so you can decide what you’ll each focus on to avoid stepping on each other’s toes…
• Sydney reflects on the impact of making decisions together, no matter how small they seem. (This may or may not have come from nearly getting divorced over a decision about curtains…)
• Audrina and Sydney discuss managing their work and personal lives, including how they chat about work outside of work. Sydney’s parents decided work was an off-limits topic for date night, but Sydney and Audrina are the opposite. (It’s all about what’s best for you!)
• Audrina touches on managing the balance between knowing when to work things out yourself and when to get your partner’s input. It’s important to be self-aware—start with yourself, then go from there.

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyitpod/ 

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

What matters to you? What are you capable of right now?

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney talk flipping the switch from a people-pleasing mentality to calling people out for falseness, and shifting from a lack mindset to receiving, thriving, and abundance. It’s important to go out of your way to show up with a positive energy so you can appreciate all the little things—that energy can be generated by who you spend time with and how you talk to yourself.

Sydney and Audrina discuss how self-serving won’t get you far in life. If you’re only seeing what other people can do for you (instead of what you can do for them), your world is going to get really small, really fast. Start looking for opportunities to help people succeed, build, and reach their goals. Think about what you’re sending out into the universe, what you’re attracting, and how you’re communicating—then the universe will respond to you.

Work-life balance? There is none. We only have one life, so if you don’t set expectations and boundaries and hold people to them, that’ll affect you in ALL areas. Inviting self-awareness into your life and getting clear on your expectations will make everything run smoother. Communicating in a way that feels natural and authentic might come with some trial and error… but it’s a continual learning process. Don’t be afraid to ask for what you’re hoping to receive. (And don’t be afraid to be playful!)

In This Conversation:

• Audrina dives deep into reciprocal relationships. They don’t always have to be a 50/50 split, but there should be an amount of give and take—no one’s here for one-sided relationships and partnerships.
• Sydney and Audrina discuss shifting towards an abundance mindset by focusing on the wins (no matter how small) and finding opportunities to celebrate as much as possible.
• Audrina talks about the importance of doing your homework before meeting with people, vetting them as much as they’re vetting you, and being authentic and genuine in *every* interaction. (Instead of glazing over or adding meaningless comments on posts…)
• Audrina and Sydney explore spending in alignment and being more intentional and conscious about money. The first step is understanding your finances, because awareness is everything. Shifting your mindset from ‘bills you have to pay’ to ‘luxuries you get to buy’ helps build so much gratitude. (Top tip: Set aside a fun fund!)

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If the universe could give you one gift, what would it be? What are you open to receiving right now? Have a think and reflect on it, and if you feel comfortable, come and share your thoughts on Instagram or LinkedIn!

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/ 

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/ 

Resources We Mentioned:
The Adventure Challenge: Couples Edition

How do you prioritize your spending? Have you set yourself up for the future? 

In today’s episode, Sydney and Audrina talk money management and the balancing act of paying off debt while setting yourself up for the future. From horrific financial situations to unprecedented global pandemics, entrepreneurship isn’t always a glamorous life seen through rose-tinted glasses. But if it lights you up and you’re intentional, you just have to do whatever it takes to keep going. And remember—you’re not alone.

Sydney gets raw and real about her experience setting up and opening a hostel in Guatemala, and how they couldn’t lose the opportunity because that was literally all they had. From selling her wedding ring to borrowing $25 for groceries, Sydney’s situation was dire. She went from raising over a million dollars for her company to working out what to do to avoid homelessness and starvation. But she pulled herself out.

Positive things can come from difficult times, like getting to know yourself better. You learn to let go of things that don’t serve you, including relationships. These situations make it really clear to see who you can count on—they can also show you what you truly need in life. Although Audrina’s previous life looked like ‘the ideal,’ she’s now much happier and fulfilled at her core after realizing how much she doesn’t need.

In This Conversation:

• Audrina and Sydney dive into the importance of letting go of your ego when you’re in a dire situation because you have to just do what you can to get through. When you need to ask for help, the worst that’s going to happen is they’ll say no… but the best is they’ll say yes.
• Sydney talks about how they poured everything into the hostel and saw it as their savings account—and lifeline. She spent many years working for someone else and wasn’t fulfilled, so she couldn’t give up (even though they were only sleeping four or five hours a night for months on end…).
• Audrina and Sydney touch on negative spending habits and how they can be so hard to break. A guilty mindset around spending isn’t helpful, but understanding and aligning with what you value and where you put your money is.
• Sydney opens up about how much debt she’s managed to pay off in the last five years (hint: it’s a lot) and one of the biggest things she learned about getting into that much debt.

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Resources We Mentioned:
Deeper Than Money By Chloe Elise

How would you handle a debt of a million dollars?

In this week’s episode, Sydney bravely dives deep into how she managed a million dollars in debt while building businesses, struggling with a difficult business partner, handling a rough pregnancy, and having a husband unable to work while he navigated applying for a green card... It was a lot. But she learned SO much.

Audrina and Sydney talk about the importance of relationships and why you shouldn’t burn bridges when you don’t have to. As Audrina neatly puts it, “Don’t set fire to the house you might want to come back to.” Relationships are a key foundation in business, not just with your employees and investors, but also your friends and family. Communicating when you can (almost to the point of overcommunicating) is so important.  

As business owners, whatever happens in your business goes into your personal life, and it can feel like there’s no real separation between. So, if you’re going through a similar situation to Sydney—such as navigating business debt or breaking up with a difficult business partner—the best advice is to really dig into self-care. Feeling stressed won’t make the outcome and results any better, so remember to look after yourself and give yourself grace.

In This Conversation:

• Sydney discusses what happened with her previous business partner who decided to close the business, leaving her with no cash and no business to run—just a literal landing page and almost a million dollars in debt.
• Audrina asks what business owners can do to protect their business name after Sydney came face to face with the issue. (Listen out for Sydney’s simple tips!)
• Sydney talks about her own personal values and how that meant paying the debt off was all on her… and how she actually did it.
• Audrina and Sydney discuss why you *shouldn’t* hire your spouse to work under you. (Hint: it’s just not worth it!)

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/ 

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Much like Ross and Chandler trying to get a couch down a flight of stairs in Friends, are you embracing “pivoting”?

In today’s episode, Sydney and Audrina discuss the importance of evaluating what’s working (and what isn’t) in your life and business. Pivoting doesn’t have to be scary—see it as a chance to improve with every single opportunity. It’s not always about burning everything to the ground and starting again, it’s about asking the right questions and actually listening so you can implement ideas to make things smoother.

Taking the time to work out where the “clunky” areas are in your business gives you the opportunity to fix them. The best advice is to constantly revisit the different processes and get feedback. Are you a solopreneur without a huge team to ask? That’s okay! Talk to current clients, past clients, and even prospective clients who said no, because every piece of constructive criticism is valuable (even the hard feedback). Be really intentional and embrace constantly pivoting.

Audrina talks about her process in her business, Summit Chasers Network, and how vital it is to step back and look at the bigger picture. As a business owner, think about how much your clients are paying you, how much your outgoings are, and what your margins look like, but, more importantly, how does your business make you feel? We are our businesses, so they need to make us feel good.

In This Conversation:

• Audrina touches on how a pivot she made in a previous company helped her team go from sending 10-15 email campaigns a day to sending hundreds of campaigns every single day. (Hint: It started with working out what needed to happen and then making it a reality.)
• Sydney talks about why we need the mentality of staying curious, asking the right questions, and navigating changes. Let the panic moments happen, but keep moving—and try to have faith in the outcome.
• Audrina and Sydney discuss the importance of using your intuition with real-life examples. Take time to process and analyze the feedback (instead of constantly changing everything off the back of one opinion), and don’t be scared to make hard choices. The sooner you do a hard pivot, the better.
• Sydney explains why you need to focus on not getting too down when things don’t go as planned and learning to accept that your business will be better for it in the long run. (She can’t think of a single time that a pivot negatively impacted her business when she took it with curiosity and intent!)

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Do you feel your age? (Does anyone?)

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney touch on their personal experiences with the interesting (and sometimes weird) process of aging. Even though we feel the same on the inside, we look different on the outside—and that’s something we all experience. Our bodies change as we age and go through life, from wrinkles starting to appear to allergies and food intolerances, through to the major physical undertaking that is pregnancy (and everything that comes with that). 

As women, the physical side of aging can be tricky to navigate because there’s so much weight wrapped up in what we look like and how we show up. We go through the strange experience of feeling “too young” and then “too old”… but really, it comes down to mindset. We need to shift from being hard on ourselves to being grateful for what we (and our bodies) have achieved. Getting older is a privilege—we won’t always look the same, but that’s a good thing. It means we’re continuing to evolve.

At the end of the day, age is just a number. It’s about how you feel on the inside and how you show up. We’re always adapting and growing, so it’s important to learn to fully accept and embrace ourselves as we are right now. We’re badass women who are constantly juggling so many things, so showing up and doing the best we can is all we can ask for.

In This Conversation:

• Audrina and Sydney discuss the importance of holding onto your playful, childlike side and how believing you’re still young makes you feel young. (Sydney even mentions a medical study that proves it!)
• Sydney gets real with her pregnancies and talks about the interesting dynamic of how drastically aging pregnancy can be at first, but then how the aging process sometimes seems to reverse…
• Audrina touches on the mental health impact that came with her allergic reaction, and appreciating how much strength it takes to continue to show up (even when you don’t look or feel your best) and not let anything hold you back from what you want—or need—to do.
• Sydney and Audrina discuss the slippery slope of “chasing perfection,” getting comfortable with your body’s changes, and the idea that: “Your body is a reflection of your lifestyle. If you’re happy with your lifestyle, you should be happy with your body.”    

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

If you were watching a film of your life right now, what would you be screaming at the TV for the main character (aka you) to change, do, or stop ignoring?

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney reflect on what they’d like to stop ignoring, change, and do in their businesses and personal lives. They both get real and raw, with relatable truths around taking yourself—and your work—way too seriously and the anxiety around finding out answers you might not want to hear.

You’ll be nodding along to this episode as Sydney and Audrina discuss being human and giving yourself grace (because we’re all just doing the best we can). They wrap up this honest episode by talking about what they’re afraid of and why it’s no longer going to hold them back.

As female entrepreneurs, we often struggle with making the ask and charging what we should be. Audrina and Sydney go behind the scenes into what’s changing at The Hive and dive into the mindset shifts we need to go through to help us recognize (and own) the value we bring.

In This Conversation:

• Sydney dives into what she’d be yelling at herself to stop ignoring (spoiler: it’s about feeling all the feelings). She’s going to put in the effort to not hide from the uncomfortable parts, because they all have something really important to say.
• Audrina discusses the journey she’s on with the way she talks to herself—it’s something we can definitely all relate to. We wouldn’t speak to our best friends like that, so why do we talk to ourselves like that? Audrina talks about calling yourself out and actually being proud (instead of the default: being brutal).
• Sydney and Audrina chat about the importance of stepping away from yourself and the impact of objectively looking through different perspectives (hello, meditation!). 

Audrina and Sydney are planning on revisiting these questions in a few months, so watch this space to see how their answers have changed!

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode!

So, if you were watching the film of your life right now, what would you be screaming at the main character to change, do, and stop ignoring? Have a think and reflect on it, and if you feel comfortable, come and share your thoughts on Instagram or LinkedIn!

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swearingbyit/

LinkedIn:
Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/
Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

What happens when life is moving at full speed and you’re expected to manage running a business amidst the chaos? 

In this week’s episode, Sydney and Audrina delve into the real challenges they’ve experienced while continuing to show up as the face of their business. From the small, daily struggles of crying children and very vocal dogs to large-scale, terrifying natural disasters, we go behind the scenes of what it takes to keep moving when clients are counting on you—and how to prioritize your own well-being in the process. 

Life actually happens! Any entrepreneur knows it’s a constant balancing act to be present in your business and in your personal life. There are times, though, when one side weighs more heavily. In these times, it’s essential to be aware of the support system you have—who can you delegate some tasks to, who can take over if you need some recovery time, and who can provide a shoulder to lean on?

As women, and especially as mothers, we often feel like we need to do everything all the time. It’s so important (and healthy!) for us to be able to ask for help. Building your business is consistent work, and one person can’t do it all. Creating schedules and systems might feel restrictive, but in actuality, it will help clear your mind because all the tasks in your head are now down on paper and organized. Trust us – it works! 

In This Conversation:

• The importance of a healthy mindset – techniques and tools we use to regain composure when sh*t hits the fan. 
• Setting yourself up for success by starting to practice these techniques before you need them. Breathing, eating well, and exercising are some of the most effective ways we manage our physical and mental health. 
• When you don’t want to do something, try these tools: The power of calling out the “feeling of after” and reminding yourself of the positive outcomes, and The Opposite Game to swap your mindset from negative to positive.  
• Creating systems within our business to schedule tasks, and allowing ourselves to ensure we have some time for self-care. When creating this schedule, take notice of how you feel at different times of the day. You can then acknowledge these feelings, determine when you need a boost, and build a routine of healthy habits that work for you.

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:

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

LinkedIn: 

Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/

Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/

Resources We Mentioned: 

Insight Timer App 

Minute Moments: Master of Time Blog Post

What does it really mean to be an entrepreneur? It’s not the lavish lifestyle you might think—Spoiler: it’s a whole lot messier. 

In this week’s episode, Audrina and Sydney dive into what their days as busy founders entail, without sugar-coating anything. Before becoming entrepreneurs, we all pictured the ideal lifestyle: relaxed mornings by the pool, afternoon pilates classes, and restful evenings – with a full night’s sleep! 

Now we know better! While we think it’s a great lifestyle to aspire to, we’ve learned that running your own business is A LOT of work. You need to prepare yourself to embrace the reality of entrepreneurship; it’s consistent outreach to build a community, practicing your pitch and gaining confidence in selling your services, and learning new skills you never thought you’d need. 

But we promise you it is still the best choice we’ve made—this life is 100% worth it for us.

Sydney and Audrina discuss their top tips for getting comfortable with sales and the importance of asking good questions, to yourself and your clients. We explore the length of time it really takes to get your business off the ground, and whether you start strong or have slow growth, don’t get discouraged—it usually takes more time than you’d think! This time period, though, has the ability to show how resilient and flexible we can be in both our business strategies and our mindset. 

What has surprised you the most about being an entrepreneur? 

Let us know in the comments!

In This Conversation:

• What is your sales style? How can you lean into what you’re good at to feel more confident on your sales calls? We also discuss our process for preparing for sales calls, how we structure the call, and how we maintain a lens of curiosity during them. 
• The financial complexities involved in owning your own business. Often, as a founder, you’re the one making the least money and doing the most work—we talk about what steps you can take to plan ahead and prepare yourself for these challenges.
• The amount of work that goes into building your business. You’ll be continuously connecting with potential clients, doing social media marketing, learning how to manage your finances, and more. All while maintaining your sanity! It’s a lot of work, but we know you’re capable! 

For more unfiltered conversations about entrepreneurship, family life, and managing the daily demands of “doing it all”, click the Follow button so you don’t miss an episode! 

If anything we talked about resonated with you, we’d love to hear about it! Always feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or future topics you want to hear.

Connect with us:

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

LinkedIn: 

Audrina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrinablackburn/

Sydney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sydneymsherman/