Shiny New Clients! Podcast Summary

Episode: Spending on Software: Online Business Growing Pains
Host: Jenna Harding (Warriner)
Release Date: July 28, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of Shiny New Clients!, host Jenna Harding delves into the challenges and fears associated with investing in software for online businesses. Aimed at service-based entrepreneurs, the discussion centers on navigating technology to enhance business operations without compromising profit margins.

Overcoming Fear of Technology in Business

Jenna opens the conversation by addressing the common apprehensions entrepreneurs face when integrating technology into their businesses. She empathizes with listeners who fear overspending on software or becoming entangled in unfavorable subscriptions.

Jenna Harding (B): "And if you're intimidated by tech or always afraid that you're gonna spend the wrong money and get trapped in a subscription paying monthly, eating away your profits, like all of these fears, I'm right there with you."
[00:48]

Having once been "notoriously afraid of technology," Jenna shares her personal journey from being reluctant to embrace platforms like Instagram to becoming a tech-savvy business owner. Her transformation underscores that overcoming tech fears is achievable and beneficial for business growth.

Common Mistakes in Software Investment

Jenna recounts specific instances where mismanagement of software subscriptions led to unnecessary expenses, highlighting the importance of vigilance in software budgeting.

1. Overcharging with Airtable:

   • Jenna explains how her business's transition to Airtable as a CRM led to unexpected costs due to adding multiple team members without realizing the per-head pricing structure.

   Jenna Harding (B): "I was adding so many people and not realizing that I was paying per head. Eventually, I reached out to my ops person. I was like, 'Hey, aren't Airtable bills like $300? Is that normal?'"
   [03:15]

2. Unnecessary Subscriptions:

   • She shares a story about unknowingly paying for a resume writing service for over a year, which was only discovered when her husband, an accountant, noticed the recurring charge on her credit card.

   Jenna Harding (B): "I signed up for this resume writing website and ended up being a monthly charge... He [Jordan] just glanced and was like, 'What's that?'"
   [04:10]

These anecdotes serve as cautionary tales, illustrating how easily subscription costs can spiral out of control without proper oversight.

Emphasizing Better Solutions and Tech Stacks

Transitioning from challenges to solutions, Jenna emphasizes that for every business pain point, there's a technological solution designed to streamline operations and maintain healthy profit margins.

Jenna Harding (B): "When it comes to tech, anything that's taking you a long time... There's a solution out there. It might cost you a couple bucks a month, but there is a better way out."
[04:50]

She introduces a valuable resource—a free document listing all the software tools she utilizes in her business, including beginner-friendly tech stacks for launching courses, group programs, and more. This resource aims to help entrepreneurs select scalable and efficient tools without the overwhelm.

Jenna Harding (B): "Under this episode you will find a free document where I have listed out all of the tech I use in my business... It's not the most perfect, but it's what I would recommend."
[05:30]

Encouraging Smart Investments and Process Improvements

Jenna urges listeners to identify and address inefficiencies in their businesses by adopting better technological solutions. She highlights the importance of making informed investments that enhance operational speed, organization, and overall business health.

Jenna Harding (B): "Start flagging the things in your business that take you too long or aren't fun or are clunky or need to be more organized and start questioning if there's a better way to do it and what that is."
[07:25]

She reinforces the idea that investing in the right tools can reduce stress, save time, and ultimately contribute to a more profitable and enjoyable business experience.

Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

Jenna concludes the episode by reaffirming that while technology can seem daunting, the right approach and resources can demystify it. She encourages entrepreneurs to embrace tech solutions thoughtfully to enhance their business operations without falling into the trap of unnecessary expenses.

Jenna Harding (B): "There is a solution out there... When it comes time to make an investment in your business, to make it move faster, be more smooth and let you see, stop stressing so much. Make that investment."
[08:40]

Listeners are reminded to utilize the provided free tech stack document to make informed decisions about the software that best fits their business needs.

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Tech Stack Document: Available below the episode, detailing the software Jenna uses and recommends for various business functions.

This episode serves as a practical guide for online entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of software investments, offering both personal insights and actionable resources to foster business growth without unnecessary financial strain.