Last Updated on 3 weeks by Heyward CPA PLLC
Starting a new year often brings a fresh mindset and renewed energy for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. But how do you truly kick off the year with a strategy that moves the needle? In this insightful discussion from Heyward CPA Live, hosts James E. Heyward and Kory H. Franklin explore the concept of Biz Therapy—a unique, peer-based coaching program designed to help business owners work on their business, not just in it.
What is Biz Therapy and Why Does It Matter?
Biz Therapy is a six-week cohort program tailored for entrepreneurs at every stage of growth—from no revenue to thriving businesses. The premise is simple but powerful: many small business owners operate in isolation, lacking an outlet to discuss challenges, share ideas, or collaborate with peers. Biz Therapy creates that much-needed space.
As James explains, “Many entrepreneurs don’t have an outlet for their business creativity nor do they have time to discuss issues. It’s hard to have peers, especially if you’re a sole owner.” This program offers a dedicated hour each week to step back, reflect, and strategize on your business with the support of like-minded peers and expert coaches.
The program emphasizes working on your business rather than getting stuck in the daily grind of working in it—following the well-known E-Myth philosophy. This shift in perspective can spark motivation, help business owners get unstuck, and foster accountability.
Building a Supportive Ecosystem
One of the standout benefits of Biz Therapy is the peer-based environment it cultivates. Entrepreneurs share stories, challenges, and successes, creating an ecosystem of relationships that extend beyond the program itself.
“Think of it as an internal team, an advisory board, a peer group where you can hear stories and collaborate with others. This is not just about your next level; this is about creating relationships because all we have, when you remove everything else, is people.” – James E. Heyward
This network can lead to unexpected opportunities—referrals, partnerships, new ideas—all critical elements for sustained growth. The program’s structure encourages consistency and implementation, helping participants build habits that translate into real progress.
The Power of Consistency and Accountability
Consistency is key to turning ideas into results. Biz Therapy meets weekly, allowing participants to carve out dedicated time for business strategy amid the chaos of daily operations. This regular commitment helps combat common entrepreneurial pitfalls like procrastination and overthinking.
Kory highlights the importance of self-accountability: “If you don’t hold yourself accountable, who will? Being your own boss means you control your schedule, but that can be a double-edged sword. You have to be vigilant to avoid laziness and distractions.”
The program also integrates coaching that addresses the psychological and organizational aspects of business ownership—helping entrepreneurs become more focused, organized, and intentional about their goals.
Starting the Year Right: Insights from the Hosts
James and Kory share their own approaches to starting the new year with purpose:
- Early Planning: The new year mindset should start before January 1. James mentions beginning to plan in November, assessing what needs to change or be implemented in the coming year.
- Cost Review: Evaluate your expenses critically. Are you paying for software or services you don’t use? Cutting unnecessary costs can improve profitability.
- Training and Learning: Commit to personal and team development. Both hosts emphasize the importance of continuous learning and training to strengthen skills and business acumen.
- Systematizing Your Business: Building systems and processes is essential. Writing down goals is just the start; creating living documents like a playbook helps keep your plans actionable and visible daily.
The 2025 Playbook: A Tool for Focus and Execution
Kory has created a personalized “2025 Playbook” to track daily goals, intentions, and execution. This tool helps maintain hyper-focus and self-accountability throughout the year.
“My playbook will tell the story of how effective my attention, intention, and execution were at the end of the year. It keeps me from being lazy or procrastinating.” – Kory H. Franklin
This concept of a playbook aligns perfectly with Biz Therapy’s goal of helping entrepreneurs treat their business as a living, evolving entity rather than a static idea.
The Importance of Clear Branding and Business Identity
Another key topic discussed is the power of branding and business identity. The hosts caution against overcomplicating your brand message. A strong brand can often be summed up in one word or a simple concept that instantly communicates what your business stands for.
James explains, “Your most effective brand is like one word. For example, McDonald’s = hamburgers, KFC = chicken, Apple = devices. What do you want people to think of when they see your company’s name?”
Understanding and refining your brand is crucial as you start the year, ensuring your marketing and customer interactions align with your intended identity.
Why Every Business Owner Needs Support
James and Kory emphasize that seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an investment in your business’s future. They encourage entrepreneurs to embrace programs like Biz Therapy or other coaching to gain clarity, improve execution, and build a network of support.
“People need help. Don’t be afraid to get it and don’t be afraid to pay for it. Those investments pay off.” – James E. Heyward
With Biz Therapy, you get more than just advice—you get a community, a strategy, and the accountability needed to push through challenges and grow sustainably.
Final Thoughts: Taking the First Step
Starting the year strong is about more than just resolutions; it’s about building habits, systems, and relationships that keep you moving forward. Biz Therapy offers a structured, supportive way to do just that, helping you transform your business challenges into growth opportunities.
If you’re ready to start working on your business and not just in it, consider exploring Biz Therapy. Visit BizTherapyCoaching.com to learn more, schedule a free consultation, and find out how you can join the next cohort.
Remember, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Take that step and make 2025 your best year yet.