Ever wonder how to scale your consulting practice without a huge team or complex tech stack? In this episode, Ashley Rose from Systems Over Stress reveals how she built and manages her business using primarily Airtable and strategic automation. A self-described "systems nerd," Ashley opens up about how her ADHD diagnosis led her to create systems that work with her brain instead of against it – and ultimately helped her build a thriving consulting practice.
But here's what makes this conversation particularly valuable: Ashley isn't just sharing theory. She breaks down exactly how she uses Airtable as her "first team member," managing everything from client experience to launch tracking with just two part-time VAs. She also gets refreshingly honest about the financial reality of scaling, including a recent $43,000 business loan and her journey to more intentional business spending.
Whether you're drowning in spreadsheets or trying to figure out how to scale without sacrificing client experience, this episode offers practical insights on building systems that actually work. Ashley shares specific examples of how she automates everything from sales tracking to content management, and why the right systems can help you make better business decisions.
Highlights:
Your Systems Should Be Your First Hire - Before bringing on team members, invest in systems that can automate routine tasks and provide clear visibility into your business metrics. A good system is like having an extra team member for just $24/month.
Data-Driven Decisions Change Everything - When Ashley ignored her data and followed industry trends, her template shop made $23,000 compared to her group program's $422,000. Having clear metrics helps you make decisions based on what actually works in your business, not just what everyone else is doing.
Scale Without Sacrificing Experience - The right systems let you maintain high-touch client experiences even as you grow. From automated check-ins to progress tracking, you can use technology to enhance rather than replace personal connection.
Simple Can Be Sophisticated - Ashley manages her entire business with primarily two tools: Airtable and strategic automation. You don't need a complex tech stack to build a successful consulting practice.
Resources Mentioned:
Airtable: https://www.airtable.com/
Kit (Email Platform): https://kit.com/
Thrivecart: https://thrivecart.com/
Systems Over Stress: https://systemsoverstress.co/
Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com
Connect with Ashley:
Website: https://systemsoverstress.co/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/systemsoverstress/#
Connect with Cindy:
Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.com
Fractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagman
Connect with Jess:
Out In the Boons: outintheboons.me
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutntiheboons/
Confessions with Jess and Cindy