This is Hustle with Aloha , A podcast for entrepreneurs who want success without burnout. Here you'll hear real strategies and conversations to help you grow while staying true to yourself. I 'm Alicia Nagel, brand strategist and founder of Alicia Nagel Creative. I've helped over 130 brands stand out with strategy-first marketing and design. Living for years in Hawaii taught me the deeper meaning of aloha- presence, kindness, and connection. In a world that glorifies nonstop hustle culture, Aloha reminds us to pause and appreciate. That's why I created Hustle with Aloha.

In this episode of Hustle With Aloha, Alicia Nagel of Alicia Nagel Creative chats with HR consultant Kathleen Gabriel of Gabriel HR to break down what entrepreneurs need to know when taking that first big step of hiring their first employee. Because hiring your first employee can be exciting—but also overwhelming!

Whether you're debating between a 1099 contractor vs. W-2 employee, wondering what should go in an offer letter, or thinking about building a team the right way, this episode is packed with practical advice for small business owners.

Topics covered include:
• Signs you're ready to hire your first employee
• 1099 vs. W-2 - does it matter?
• Avoiding common legal pitfalls
• Why you do need an employee handbook—even with one employee
• The importance of structure, documentation, and communication
• How Kathleen’s "Hire Right" package helps entrepreneurs hire employee 1, 2, 3, and maybe even up to employee number 10
• Hiring friends (and how to do it right)
• Fractional HR support and virtual assistants

Learn more about Kathleen’s services: https://gabrielhr.com
Entrepreneurs can book a free 30-minute consultation with Kathleen on her website.

Mentioned:
The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280/

Stay connected:
• Alicia Nagel Creative: https://alicianagel.com
• Follow @hustlewithaloha on Instagram or Facebook

Thank you to Mike Koenig for the ocean sound effects recording.