Grow Your Local Business Podcast
Episode: Being Someone Locals Love To Pay
Host: Leslie Presnell
Release Date: June 17, 2025
Introduction
In episode 122 of the Grow Your Local Business podcast, host Leslie Presnell delves into the transformative concept of becoming "someone locals love to pay." This episode emphasizes the critical mindset shift necessary for local business owners to thrive by fostering genuine connections with their community, ultimately leading to a steady stream of clients and increased revenue.
Mindset Shift: From Doubt to Belief
Leslie begins by addressing a common hurdle among local business owners: the belief that people are reluctant or unwilling to pay for their services. She explains how this negative mindset can adversely affect every aspect of a business, from marketing and sales to personal confidence and energy.
"I just see so many local business owners walk around assuming that people don't actually want to pay them, and it's killing their confidence, it's killing their marketing, and it's killing their sales."
— Leslie Presnell [04:30]
By shifting this perspective to one of confidence and belief that clients do want to pay—and love paying—the entire approach to business transforms. This positive mindset not only enhances marketing efforts but also makes the sales process more enjoyable and authentic.
Personal Reflection: What You Love to Spend Money On
To illustrate the importance of valuing your own spending, Leslie shares personal anecdotes about the things she loves to invest in. This exercise is designed to help listeners recognize that if they find joy in spending money on certain items or services, they should embody that same value in what they offer.
"I love spending money on my business coach. I love spending money on my mindset coach. Anytime they're like, here's another round. Here's another payment. I'm like, I'm in."
— Leslie Presnell [07:50]
She encourages listeners to reflect on their own purchases that bring them satisfaction and to identify recurring expenses they willingly invest in. This reflection helps business owners understand the intrinsic value their offerings can hold for clients.
Applying the Concept to Your Business
Transitioning from personal reflection to business application, Leslie shares a relatable story about a pool service company. She highlights how her friends enthusiastically invest in their pool maintenance, considering it a favorite expense despite its cost.
"They loved it. They literally said it was their favorite way to spend money."
— Leslie Presnell [13:45]
This example underscores that clients can and do find genuine value in services they invest in regularly. By perceiving your business through this lens, you can position your offerings as indispensable and valued by your local community.
Actionable Questions
To cement the mindset shift, Leslie poses several thought-provoking questions for listeners to consider:
- What would change if you believed you were someone people love to pay?
- How would you market your business differently?
- How would you approach sales conversations?
- How would you price your services or products?
- How would you show up in your community and online?
These questions are designed to prompt business owners to evaluate and adjust their strategies, ensuring alignment with the belief that their clients genuinely value and enjoy paying for their offerings.
Conclusion
Leslie wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to seek evidence of existing clients who already love paying them. She suggests looking for positive feedback and testimonials that reinforce this belief. For those seeking further assistance in adopting this confident and client-centric approach, Leslie invites them to join the LocalPreneur Academy.
"Go be someone that people in your city love to pay, and I'll talk to you next week."
— Leslie Presnell [24:10]
By embracing this mindset, local business owners can transform their relationship with clients, leading to enhanced marketing efforts, increased sales, and a more fulfilling business experience.
Key Takeaways
- Mindset is Crucial: Believing that clients love to pay you can drastically improve your marketing, sales, and overall business energy.
- Value Your Offerings: Reflect on what you love to spend money on personally to better understand how to position your services as valuable to others.
- Client Relationships Matter: Building genuine connections and providing exceptional value can make clients eager and happy to invest in your business.
- Action-Oriented Reflection: Utilize the provided questions to assess and adjust your business strategies to align with a positive, client-focused mindset.
Join Leslie Presnell in the LocalPreneur Academy to further develop the strategies and mindset needed to become the go-to local business in your industry, attracting a steady stream of loyal clients.