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Welcome back to Smart Girl Summer! Today, I’m sitting down with the incredible Annie F. Downs, a best-selling author, podcaster, speaker, and Enneagram enthusiast, for a powerhouse conversation you won’t want to miss.

We’re two Enneagram Sevens pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to build a thriving business and grow a platform, without losing yourself in the process. You know those glossy success stories that make it all look effortless?

Well, we’re here to talk about the real journey, the bad advice we ignored, the behind-the-scenes realities no one tells you about, and the lessons that shaped us.

So, if you love business and you need a fresh shot of motivation and wisdom, this one’s for you. Buckle up, friend—it’s going to be a good one!

Timestamps:

(08:05) - Why 2025 Is the Best Time to Start a Podcast

(11:02) - What Actually Grows a Podcast (And What Doesn’t)

(25:15) - Find Your Lane and Run Fast

(32:02) - Don’t Just Dream—Get in the Room with People Who’ve Done It

(39:22) - What’s Really Working on Social Media Right Now

WATCH ALLI ON YOUTUBE

Links to great things we discussed:

• Annie’s Favorite Skin Care Product - Cattle + Comb Tallow Lotion

I hope you loved this episode! 🎉Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss a thing. And guess what? We're on YouTube! If you're loving the content, show us some love by leaving a review and giving us some stars—it means the world to me! Take care, and stay fabulous!

xo,

Alli