Smart Gets Paid
  • About
  • The Academy
  • Podcast
  • Success Stories
  • About
  • The Academy
  • Podcast
  • Success Stories
  • Coaching
  • Methodology
  • Media & Speaking
  • About
  • Contact
  • Client Login
Leah Neaderthal Headshot

You can break through to the next revenue level in your consulting business.

And you can do it in a way that feels comfortable, lets you be yourself, and doesn’t make you overworked. I can help.

learn more

I’m Leah Neaderthal, and I help women run more profitable consulting businesses.

In our world, that means doing more of the work you love, with the clients you enjoy, and getting paid for your value, not your time. So that your business supports your life, not the other way around.

As seen in

The New York Times Logo
Fast Company Logo
The Globe and Mail Logo
Forbes Logo
The Oprah Magazine Logo
Inc. Logo
Copyblogger Logo
The New York Times Logo
Fast Company Logo
The Globe and Mail Logo
Forbes Logo
The Oprah Magazine Logo
Inc. Logo
Copyblogger Logo

You’ve gotten this far without a marketing and sales strategy. Imagine what would happen if you had one?

Up to this point, you’ve gotten clients through referrals and word of mouth. You know you should be doing something more proactive. But… what?

You’ve never had to sell in your previous career, and you don’t want to come off as a used car salesperson.

But you CAN learn how to get the clients you want, in a way that feels organic and comfortable. Here you won’t find any pushy sales tricks. Just a methodology that works, builds great client relationships, and lets you be yourself. Welcome to Smart Gets Paid.

learn more

Stop waiting for word-of-mouth & referral clients…

Get them coming to you, consistently.
Grab your copy of Referrals on Repeat.

Stop waiting for word-of-mouth & referral clients… Get them coming to you, consistently.
Grab your copy of Referrals on Repeat.

The Smart Gets Paid Podcast

Learn practical strategies to get the clients you want, get paid more, and run a profitable consulting business.

Popular Episodes

See all episodes
  • March 29, 2021

    EP 5: The fastest path to revenue for consultants

  • August 7, 2022

    EP 46: Making friends with your past

  • April 26, 2021

    EP 9: When to talk price with your clients

  • July 10, 2022

    EP 44: No more “Tribble Projects,” with Miriam Brosseau

  • May 10, 2021

    EP 11: How to stop clients from ghosting you

See all episodes

The Smart Gets Paid Podcast

The Smart Gets Paid Podcast

Listen in on coaching calls and learn actionable strategies you can apply to your own business.

Subscribe Now
  • Apple Podcasts
  • Google Podcasts
  • Stitcher
  • Spotify
  • Cast Box
  • Overcast

Success Stories

Jessica Zweig, branding agency owner

“I started working with you in June and within three months, August was my most lucrative month of my entire business.”

Sarah J, fundraising consultant

“We used to book clients just in time to keep income flowing, and we now have a 6-month cushion!”

Brynne K, digital marketing consultant

“Going over my numbers for last year — my revenue increased +20% and the number of clients I worked with decreased by -37%. I’m so excited about this! Switching over to value-based pricing helped me get higher-paying clients without having to add tons more clients into the mix!!”

Anna B, nonprofit communications consultant

“Every day I feel more and more like I’m the driver of my business!”

Denise F, marketing consultant

“I was my reviewing my revenue dashboard and it showed that I earned $100K more in 2024 compared to the year before. I joined the Academy in May 2024 and it has transformed my sales approach entirely.”

Deepti Gudipati, leadership consultant

“I was able to meet my revenue target for the YEAR by May and will likely end the year with 75% more revenue than I targeted for the year.”

Caitlin M, marketing consultant

“It was amazing to reflect on how my company has changed in the past year.
Before, we had clients paying us $3K a month and retainer agreements for 3 months or less. Today, our rates start at $7500/month for 12 months, minimum. Having this stability and cash flow has allowed both my business partner and me to give ourselves raises and give our ops manager a raise.”

Susan B, leadership consultant

“For the first time in my business, I feel head-to-toes confident with my message, my positioning, and my marketing. Leah is no-fluff, all practical. I feel on fire, and I’m getting way more solid inquiries and feeling confident in building my pipeline, even as I move into a new area of expertise to offer my clients.”

Mary G, nonprofit consultant

“I just secured a contract for 500% more than I was originally going to quote. I was ready to undervalue my bid and ask for $7,000 but I reached out to Leah and the team for a pep talk and I’m glad I did, because we are now going under contract for $37,500!! I’m stoked!”

Julie Hamilton, branding agency owner

“We’ve already hit our revenue goal for the year and it’s only July, so we’ve had to set a new, bigger revenue goal.”

Connie C, food startup consultant

“All my career, I have been looking for something like this. I’ve been so reactive, and to be proactive makes all the difference.”
See All Stories

Hold on one sec!

There’s a lot of noise in the “sales consulting and coaching” space, so I thought it would be helpful to clarify what I do (and what I don’t do)

I help independent consultants:

  • Get potential clients coming to you through referrals, word of mouth, and LinkedIn
  • Land profitable consulting contracts with business and nonprofit clients that need your services
  • Get paid more than you ever imagined you could, without adding any work
  • Lead a sales process, comfortably ask for the sale, find authentic confidence, and much more…

I don’t help you:

  • Get B2C / individual clients
  • Fill your group program
  • Sell your online course

If you and your team would benefit from learning these things for your consulting business, you’re in the right place!

SEO Info

Consulting Business Consultant

Consulting Business Specialist

Business Name: Smart Gets Paid

Smart Gets Paid Business Consulting Podcast

Listen to the best business consulting podcast here:

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leads-to-clients/id1531756453

YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZURVGlvW7Ex9Ih29tt5clGGy7erWOvRx

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@smartgetspaid-leahneaderth3030

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/18nJp3kZOB3MKZANgCNJic 

CastBox: https://castbox.fm/channel/The-Smart-Gets-Paid-Podcast-id3932359?utm_source=website&utm_medium=dlink&utm_campaign=web_share&utm_content=The%20Smart%20Gets%20Paid%20Podcast-CastBox_FM

Overcast: https://overcast.fm/itunes1531756453

You may have found us by searching for some other common business consulting services:

Business Coaching for Women

Sales Training for Consultants

Business Coaching Podcast

Business Success Coaching

Business Coaching

Coaching Executive Businesses

Coaching Small Businesses

FAQ:

What is a business consultant vs. consulting?

“Consulting” is the broader field of providing expert advice to businesses, while a “business consultant” is an individual professional who performs this service, often focusing on specific areas like operations, marketing, or finance to improve performance. The term “consulting” can also refer to the industry as a whole, or a “consulting firm,” which is a company of business consultants.

Consulting (the field or industry)

  • Definition: The general practice of providing expert analysis, advice, and solutions to businesses to help them overcome challenges, improve performance, and achieve objectives.
  • Scope: Encompasses many specializations, such as strategy, management, operations, HR, and finance.
  • Activities: Involves a wide range of tasks, from conducting research and data analysis to developing strategies, presenting findings, and providing training. 

Business consultant (the individual)

  • Definition: An individual professional who works in the consulting field to help clients improve their business.
  • Role: They work with businesses to diagnose problems, identify areas for growth, and implement solutions. They can provide short-term or long-term guidance.
  • Specialization: A business consultant may specialize in one or more areas, such as marketing, finance, or operations, or may take a broader approach depending on the client’s needs. 

What does a business consultant do?

A business consultant analyzes a company’s operations, finances, and strategies to provide expert advice and create plans for improvement. They help businesses solve problems, increase efficiency, and achieve their goals, such as boosting profits, streamlining operations, developing new marketing strategies, or managing finances. Their work can involve conducting research, analyzing data, implementing solutions, and educating staff. 

  • Problem-solving: They identify operational problems, financial inefficiencies, or other challenges that hinder a company’s performance.
  • Strategic planning: They work with management to develop strategic business plans, set goals, and create roadmaps for growth and success.
  • Operational improvement: Consultants analyze workflows, design new systems, and implement changes to improve efficiency and productivity.
  • Financial guidance: They review budgets and financial data, recommend improvements, identify funding opportunities, and assist with financial planning.
  • Specialized expertise: Consultants may specialize in specific areas like marketing, human resources, information technology, or finance and provide expert advice in that domain.
  • Implementation and training: They not only develop strategies but also help implement them and provide training to staff to ensure the changes are successful and sustainable.
  • Objectivity and external perspective: They offer an impartial and fresh perspective, often helping with difficult tasks or implementing changes that an internal team might struggle with.

Is consulting a stressful career?

Yes, consulting is widely considered a very stressful career due to long hours, high pressure, and relentless deadlines. The fast-paced nature of client work, constant expectations for perfection, and the need to be “always on” can negatively impact personal life, mental health, and physical well-being. While many individuals find the work rewarding, the high stress is a significant challenge. 

Sources of stress

  • Long hours: A typical work week can be between 50 and 80 hours, with partners often working even longer.
  • Intense pressure: High client expectations and tight deadlines create a constant pressure to produce high-quality work quickly.
  • High stakes: The work is often high-stakes and fast-paced, and a single project’s success or failure can be perceived as critical.
  • Constant connectivity: Consultants are often expected to be available and responsive outside of traditional work hours, with constant emails and demands.
  • Impact on personal life: The demanding schedule can lead to weakened social connections, less time for hobbies, and strain on relationships.
  • Intense workload: Consultants often work on multiple projects concurrently, and the “always on” culture can lead to exhaustion and burnout. 

Coping mechanisms and firm support

Seeking support: It’s important to build a strong support system with colleagues to navigate the pressures of the job.

  • Company support: Some firms are implementing policies like flexible work options and wellness benefits to mitigate stress.
  • AI tools: Some companies are exploring generative AI to help reduce excessive hours and improve efficiency.
  • Personal strategies: Many consultants find that strategies like staying hydrated, keeping snacks on hand, setting aside time for non-work activities, and bonding with teammates are crucial for managing stress.
  • Pioritization: Developing strong prioritization skills is essential for handling the constant influx of requests.

{
“@context”: “https://schema.org”,
“@type”: “FAQPage”,
“mainEntity”: [
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “What is a business consultant vs. consulting?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “”Consulting” is the broader field of providing expert advice to businesses, while a “business consultant” is an individual professional who performs this service, often focusing on specific areas like operations, marketing, or finance to improve performance. The term “consulting” can also refer to the industry as a whole, or a “consulting firm,” which is a company of business consultants. Consulting (the field or industry). Definition: The general practice of providing expert analysis, advice, and solutions to businesses to help them overcome challenges, improve performance, and achieve objectives. Scope: Encompasses many specializations, such as strategy, management, operations, HR, and finance. Activities: Involves a wide range of tasks, from conducting research and data analysis to developing strategies, presenting findings, and providing training. Business consultant (the individual). Definition: An individual professional who works in the consulting field to help clients improve their business. Role: They work with businesses to diagnose problems, identify areas for growth, and implement solutions. They can provide short-term or long-term guidance. Specialization: A business consultant may specialize in one or more areas, such as marketing, finance, or operations, or may take a broader approach depending on the client’s needs.”
}
},
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “What does a business consultant do?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “A business consultant analyzes a company’s operations, finances, and strategies to provide expert advice and create plans for improvement. They help businesses solve problems, increase efficiency, and achieve their goals, such as boosting profits, streamlining operations, developing new marketing strategies, or managing finances. Their work can involve conducting research, analyzing data, implementing solutions, and educating staff. Problem-solving: They identify operational problems, financial inefficiencies, or other challenges that hinder a company’s performance. Strategic planning: They work with management to develop strategic business plans, set goals, and create roadmaps for growth and success. Operational improvement: Consultants analyze workflows, design new systems, and implement changes to improve efficiency and productivity. Financial guidance: They review budgets and financial data, recommend improvements, identify funding opportunities, and assist with financial planning. Specialized expertise: Consultants may specialize in specific areas like marketing, human resources, information technology, or finance and provide expert advice in that domain. Implementation and training: They not only develop strategies but also help implement them and provide training to staff to ensure the changes are successful and sustainable. Objectivity and external perspective: They offer an impartial and fresh perspective, often helping with difficult tasks or implementing changes that an internal team might struggle with.”
}
},
{
“@type”: “Question”,
“name”: “Is consulting a stressful career?”,
“acceptedAnswer”: {
“@type”: “Answer”,
“text”: “Yes, consulting is widely considered a very stressful career due to long hours, high pressure, and relentless deadlines. The fast-paced nature of client work, constant expectations for perfection, and the need to be “always on” can negatively impact personal life, mental health, and physical well-being. While many individuals find the work rewarding, the high stress is a significant challenge. Sources of stress: Long hours: A typical work week can be between 50 and 80 hours, with partners often working even longer. Intense pressure: High client expectations and tight deadlines create a constant pressure to produce high-quality work quickly. High stakes: The work is often high-stakes and fast-paced, and a single project’s success or failure can be perceived as critical. Constant connectivity: Consultants are often expected to be available and responsive outside of traditional work hours, with constant emails and demands. Impact on personal life: The demanding schedule can lead to weakened social connections, less time for hobbies, and strain on relationships. Intense workload: Consultants often work on multiple projects concurrently, and the “always on” culture can lead to exhaustion and burnout. Coping mechanisms and firm support: Company support: Some firms are implementing policies like flexible work options and wellness benefits to mitigate stress. AI tools: Some companies are exploring generative AI to help reduce excessive hours and improve efficiency. Personal strategies: Many consultants find that strategies like staying hydrated, keeping snacks on hand, setting aside time for non-work activities, and bonding with teammates are crucial for managing stress. Prioritization: Developing strong prioritization skills is essential for handling the constant influx of requests. Seeking support: It’s important to build a strong support system with colleagues to navigate the pressures of the job.”
}
}
]
}

The Academy

A comprehensive, hands-on sales training program just for women running B2B consulting businesses and their teams, using a proven approach for the way B2B clients buy, and reflecting the way you run your business today.

Learn More

Articles

Sales insights, real life strategies, and a little tough love from someone who knows how hard this part of your business can be, and knows that you can do it.

The best time to get new clients is….

Have you ever gone from a huge high to a serious low? In that moment, I did.. I’d just finished up a HUGE project […]

Read More

The Pep Talk We All Need (Part 1)

Read More

Share
Tweet
Share
0 Shares

Footer

Smart Gets Paid
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Policy
  • Disclaimer
  • Policies
  • Sitemap
  • Terms & Conditions

Copyright 2026

Programs

  • The Academy
  • Coaching
  • For Teams
  • About
  • Podcast
  • Success Stories
  • Articles
  • Contact
  • Media & Speaking
  • Website Photos

set up a call

follow us

  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn