Welcome back to the Empower Her Business Accelerator podcast! I’m your host, Philippa Channer, and I’m so glad you’re here. As we turn the calendar to November, we’re also turning a powerful new page in your business journey. This month kicks off a transformative four-part series all about strategic goal setting for 2026. And today, we’re diving into something that can make or break your long-term success—strategic planning. This isn’t just about making a to-do list. This is about creating a vision, a roadmap, and a system that supports your mission and protects your energy.
In this episode, I’m breaking down why strategic planning is essential for long-term business success—especially for small business owners, solopreneurs, and service providers who are serious about building sustainable momentum. I share how strategy reduces overwhelm, helps you say no with confidence, and builds a system that grows your business (without burning you out). We’ll also explore what real strategy looks like with practical examples and how you can start aligning your daily actions with your bigger goals. Plus, I introduce you to The Entrepreneur Incubator, my done-with-you experience designed to walk you through building a custom content strategy with expert support and accountability. Let’s get intentional together.
⏱️ Timestamps + Segment Breakdown:
(00:00) Welcome & Series Introduction
We kick off a new series focused on strategic goal setting for 2026 and introduce today’s topic—why strategic planning is the key to long-term success. I also share a little bit about The Entrepreneur Incubator, a four-month experience to help you clarify your brand, build a sustainable content strategy, and take action with confidence.
🌟 Action Step: If you’re ready to stop winging it, schedule a free 30-minute session today to explore if the Incubator is your next best step.
(01:30) What Strategic Planning Really Means
Strategic planning isn’t just for big corporations or boardrooms. It’s a practical, empowering tool for solopreneurs. I share how having a plan transforms you from being reactive to being a proactive leader in your business.
💡 Action Step: Map out your year with intentional quarterly goals—think lead magnets, funnels, launches, and retention strategies that build on each other.
(03:00) Strategy Helps You Say “No” with Purpose
One of the most empowering parts of having a strategic plan is that it gives you permission to say no—without guilt. Whether it’s podcast guest spots, offers, or partnerships, you’ll know what truly aligns with your vision.
🚫 Action Step: The next time an “opportunity” shows up, pause and ask: “Does this move me closer to my 2026 goals?”
(05:30) Build Systems for Growth, Not Just Hustle
Hustling without a plan leads to burnout. I talk about the importance of creating reusable systems—like content calendars, launch workflows, and email sequences—that support consistent, long-term growth.
🔁 Action Step: Choose one system to build this month that can support your business year-round.
(07:15) SMART Goals with Real Strategy
We go beyond the typical SMART goal formula and break down what it looks like to set a goal with a plan. I give you a real example of turning “I want more visibility” into a trackable, strategic growth campaign.
🎯 Action Step: Rewrite one vague goal you’ve been holding onto into a clear, measurable plan tied to specific actions.
(08:30) Strategic Planning Builds Confidence & Reduces Overwhelm
Overwhelm thrives when you don’t know what to prioritize. Strategy is your antidote. It brings clarity to your to-do list, helps you evaluate progress, and reduces second-guessing.
🧘 Action Step: Revisit your calendar and align it with your current goals. Let your strategy guide your daily decisions.
💬 Final Thoughts
We’re heading into the final stretch of the year, and this is your invitation to pause, reflect, and be intentional about where you’re going. Strategic planning is how we shift from surviving to thriving. It’s how we stop spinning in circles and start moving in alignment—with clarity and purpose. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about direction. Whether your 2025 felt full of momentum or a bit chaotic, now is the time to recalibrate and design a 2026 that feels more focused, sustainable, and true to your mission. You don’t need more hustle—you need more strategy. And I’m here to help you make it happen.
✨ Special Announcements & Links
🎯 Free 30-Hour EmpowerHer Discovery Session
https://calendar.app.google/znZrWCuHtGvHHkwr9
🗂 New Entrepreneur Incubator Program
https://channerconsulting.com/entrepreneur-incubator/
📬 Subscribe for regular content on building a marketing plan, strategy, and tips that serve your business.
📱 Connect with me: LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
📧 Get in touch: [email protected]
