Business-First Creatives

What if the easiest sales you'll ever make are from people who already know, trust, and love your work? In this episode, I'm joined by Zoë Dew to wrap up my sales series with one of the most overlooked strategies in business: retention.We're diving deep into why so many service providers leave money on the table after delivering a service, and how building intentional relationships with past clients can completely change the way you market and sell. We talk about the power of one-to-one outreach, why follow-up is your responsibility as a business owner, and how to stop chasing cold leads when warm opportunities already exist inside your business ecosystem.Find It Quickly03:59 - Why Past Clients Matter06:41 - Stop Being Passive11:19 - Make Outreach a System13:44 - Follow Up Like a Pro15:52 - Broadcast vs One to One23:08 - What Retention Really Means25:28 - Check Ins Build Trust36:53 - Warm Beats Cold Leads43:13 - Beyond Paying Clients45:31 - Where to Find ZoeMentioned in this Episode:Episode 266: Stop Chasing Vanity Metrics: The 4 Habits That Actually Grow Your Business with Zoë DewConnect with ZoëWebsite: zoedew.comInstagram: instagram.com/zoerdew

Have you claimed your Google Business Profile (previously Google My Business)? If not, you might be missing out on free visibility in your local area. As a photographer, that could mean fewer clients finding you.In this episode, I'm joined by Lydia Fine, local SEO expert and photographer, to walk us through the current landscape of Google Business Profiles, what's changed, and exactly what you need to do to make yours work harder for you. Whether you run a studio, do in‑home shoots, or travel for sessions, this episode breaks down the window into local search that many creatives ignore.Find It Quickly00:27 - Meet Lydia Fine02:24 - Importance of Google Business Profiles for Local SEO04:01 - Verification and Privacy Concerns08:00 - Optimizing Your Google Business Profile12:55 - Leveraging Google Business Profile Services17:29 - SEO Strategies and Google Business Profiles20:22 - The Importance of Google My Business21:27 - Adding Photos and Videos to Your Profile24:12 - Managing Reviews and Updating Content25:26 - Exploring Bing Places and SEO Strategies27:16 - Asking for Reviews: Best Practices31:07 - Prominence and Local SEO TipsMentioned in this EpisodeGoogle Business ProfileConnect with LydiaWebsite: apolloandivy.comGrab the Guide: apolloandivy.com/quickfixInstagram: instagram.com/lydia_apolloandivy

If you've ever booked 50 weddings and wondered where all the money went, this episode is for you. Alora Rachelle joins me to talk wedding photography pricing strategy — specifically why the middle tier is shrinking, how to structure packages that are profitable at every level, and what it actually takes to confidently charge more.We also cover outsourcing your editing without losing your creative identity, giving feedback that gets you the results you need, and using slow season to build the systems that make your busy season sustainable.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy the middle pricing tier for wedding photographers is shrinking — and what that means for where you should be positioning your packages right nowHow to structure a three-package system where every single tier is profitable, not just the middle optionThe mindset shift that makes it possible to send a proposal with a number that genuinely scares youWhy your systems and your pricing are more connected than you think — and how a messy client experience erodes perceived value no matter what you chargeWhat the three-year mark in a photography business usually signals, and why it's the perfect time to think seriously about outsourcingHow Alora went from emotional resistance to a five-star client experience by outsourcing her editing — and why it takes more than one try to get it rightWhy slow season is for systems (not just catching up), and how to use that time to actually build the business you wantHow to balance capacity, happiness, and the real numbers so you can build a business that brings you a paycheck and your life backConnect with AloraWebsite: alorarachelle.comInstagram: instagram/alora.rachelleMasterclass: The 10k Wedding Formula

What if the reason your offers aren't selling has nothing to do with your pricing, your audience size, or your content quality—and everything to do with how often you're willing to talk about them?In this episode, I'm joined by the incredible Ceels Lockley to unpack the idea of sales stamina: the ability to consistently talk about your offers without spiraling into fear, awkwardness, or “I'm annoying everyone” energy. We dive into why repetition matters, how to stop treating sales like a dirty word, and what actually happens when you give your offers the spotlight they deserve.Ceels shares the philosophy behind her program, Sales Parade (now evolving into Parade on Tour), and explains why selling isn't about posting “buy now” every five minutes. Instead, it's about creating momentum, warming your audience up over time, and building trust through repeated exposure.Find It Quickly:00:40 - Meet Ceels02:05 - Why Sales Matters03:57 - The 52 Times Muscle07:53 - Tease Tempt Turn14:14 - Selling Multiple Offers18:21 - Parade Your Freebies24:51 - Parade On Tour Community29:14 - Sales Is Not Optional33:18 - Nurture Leads And Lurkers38:29 - Pick Your Channels42:09 - Start With Your Sales PageConnect with Ceels:Website: ceelslockley.coInstagram: instagram.com/ceels.lockleyThreads: threads.com/@its.ceels LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ceelsSales Parade / Parade on Tour: ceelslockley.co/parade

If you've ever thought that launching only works for digital courses with fake urgency and overly complicated sales tactics, this episode will shift your mindset. Kelsey McCormick of Coming Up Roses joins us to completely reframe what launching actually means, especially for service providers.Kelsey breaks down why launching isn't about pressure or hype, but instead about clarity, trust, and giving your offers the attention they deserve. We dive into what it really means to move from passive selling to proactive selling, why your audience might be full of “lurkers,” and how a strategic warmup can completely transform your results.Find It Quickly:00:24 - Meet Kelsey01:53 - Why Launching Matters Now05:30 - Trust Selling and Visibility08:15 - Productize Your Expertise13:51 - Warmup Bridge to Sales16:08 - How Long to Warm Up20:08 - Waitlists and Audience Heat21:07 - Incentives Without Discounts24:51 - Bonuses and Alignment28:22 - Internal Urgency Messaging32:04 - Launch Frequency Sweet Spot34:45 - Messy Action and Learning39:16 - Postmortems and Data ReviewConnect with Kelsey:Website: cominguproses.coInstagram: instagram.com/cominguproses.coThe Warmup Waitlist Week: cominguproses.co/products/wwwLaunch Your Own Way: cominguproses.co/products/lyow

If you've ever sat down to sell your offer and thought, “What the hell am I even supposed to say?”—this episode is for you. Today I'm joined by my brilliant fractional CMO, Chelsea Quint, and we're diving deep into the exact problem so many of us face: knowing your offer is good, but not knowing how to communicate it in a way that actually converts.We break down why selling feels so hard (hint: you're too close to your own genius), how to shift from explaining your work to selling the result, and why words like “confidence” might actually be hurting your conversions.Find It Quickly:00:26 - Meet Chelsea02:11 - Explaining Your Work04:19 - Selling With Words05:12 - Too Close To It08:19 - Craft The Offer Promise10:16 - Stop Selling Confidence20:02 - List Results And Test21:51 - Value Perception Matters24:58 - Audience Clarity Without Clients25:47 - Imagination Character Study26:54 - Persona Roleplay Research28:21 - Reddit and Reviews Mining30:39 - Notion Messaging Dashboard32:58 - Data and Context Loops36:53 - Say Less Campaign Sprint42:15 - Three Messaging Frames47:45 - Sell the TransformationConnect with Chelsea:Website: business-whisperer.com/blogInstagram: instagram.com/chelsea.quintThreads: threads.com/@chelsea.quint

Hey y'all — if you've ever felt like you need to chase down brand new leads every time you want to hit an income goal… this one is going to stop you in your tracks.In this episode, I'm joined by Erin Ollila — SEO strategist, copywriter, and host of Talk Copy to Me — for a conversation that originally aired on her podcast. We're talking about why the fastest path to more revenue is almost never a bigger audience. It's the people who are already in your world. Your past clients, your unconverted leads, your email list. And what you're actually supposed to do with them.Because here's the thing: if someone didn't book you three months ago, that doesn't mean they're never going to. And if you're ignoring them while you hustle to find someone brand new, you're making your business way harder than it needs to be.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy your first stop for any income goal should be the people already in your CRM — not InstagramHow to generate referrals from clients in one-and-done businesses like wedding photography (without a paid referral program)How to re-engage past leads who didn't book the first time without being pushy or weird about itWhy tracking your lead-to-purchase timeline in Airtable will change how you think about nurturingWhat a strategic offboarding process looks like — and why it's one of your best sales toolsWhy creating more content is often just procrastination in disguiseLinks + Resources MentionedLearn more about Systems in Session: https://coliejames.com/systemsLearn more about Email Like You Mean It: https://coliejames.com/emailFind Erin Ollila at erinollila.comListen to Erin's podcast Talk Copy to Me

Hey y'all—if you've ever wanted to take real time off in your business without everything falling apart… this one is for you.In this episode, I'm walking you through exactly how I prepare my business to run while I'm out of office every summer (yes, multiple weeks at a time). And more importantly, how you can do the same—without sacrificing your client experience or your sanity.Because here's the thing: your business shouldn't rely on your constant availability to keep making money or delivering a great experience. And if it does? We've got some fixes to make.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeThe 3 key decisions you need to make before going out of officeWhy buffer days are non-negotiable (and how they protect your energy)How to adjust your delivery timelines without stressing your clients outWhat it actually looks like to reduce capacity without hurting your revenueThe systems you need in place to keep booking clients while you're offlineHow to onboard clients seamlessly—even when you're not checking your inboxLinks + Resources MentionedLearn more about Systems in Session: https://coliejames.com/systemsSubmit questions via VideoAsk (linked on the sales page)Listen to Episode 305 on replacing sales calls with asynchronous video

If you think sending fewer emails creates a better client experience, today's episode is going to challenge your mindset. I sit down with Alison Bell, a Hawaii-based family photographer who has built a six-figure business serving vacationing clients—with zero room for error and practically no opportunity for reshoots.We dive into what it really takes to create a seamless, high-touch client experience when your clients are traveling, time-constrained, and trusting you to deliver once-in-a-lifetime memories. Alison shares exactly how she uses automation, communication, and clear boundaries (hello, sunrise-only sessions) to create an experience that builds trust, eliminates confusion, and increases sales.Find It Quickly:00:24 - Meet Alison Bell01:24 - CRM Talk02:31 - Fast Response Wins05:18 - Sunrise Sessions Policy06:40 - Repeat Key Details09:36 - After Payment Onboarding12:11 - Prep Emails15:07 - Timing Automations17:06 - Gallery Reveal Process19:00 - Weather Boundaries22:04 - Inquiry Video Touchpoint23:12 - Product Videos Idea26:32 - Email Touchpoints27:42 - Inbox Overload Reality29:16 -Texting Before Sessions32:05 - Client Ghosting Horror Stories36:19 - Next Steps Email Framework44:53 - Video Alternatives To Calls46:58 - Pricing Prep Video StrategyMentioned in this Episode:Episode 211: Marketing Mondays Will Transform Your Business Strategy with Melissa Arlena and Alison BellTave/VSCO: vsco.co/workspaceConnect with Alison:Website: alisonbellphotographer.comPodcast: Get Booked: A Photography Marketing PodcastInstagram: instagram.com/alisonbellphotog

Hey y'all, welcome back to the podcast! It's been a minute since I recorded a solo episode, and instead of pretending I had some perfectly planned return… we're just diving straight into what's been happening behind the scenes and how it led to this conversation.After hosting my Out of Office Ready training, one thing became very clear: most of you don't actually need more availability to book clients—you need a better way to communicate without being available all the time.So in this episode, I'm breaking down how to replace your sales calls with asynchronous video—whether that's using VideoAsk or simple custom videos—so you can qualify leads, answer questions, and book clients without scheduling another call on your calendar.Because your business should not stop just because you're offline.Mentioned in this EpisodeEpisodes 123 + 217 - 3 Videos to Create for Your Client Experience Right NowEpisode 237 - Improve Client Trust & Increase Conversions through Asynchronous Video with Carolyn LeasureSystems in SessionEmail Like You Mean ItVideoAsk (aff link)

This quarter's business bestie chat is coming at you live and in-person from Texas! Sabrina and I finally got to record together for our quarterly chat after spending a few days together at the Creative Educator Conference! Listen in as we chat through that experience, recap what happened in Q1, and get honest about where we are in business right now.Find It QuicklyRecapping the Creative Educator Conference (1:11)Sabrina's brand new retreat (8:24)Colie choosing to offer only one thing (10:58)A community space for Sabrina's memberships (12:43)Re-evaluating our programs (18:32)Our ad strategy goals (23:03)Sparking new ideas (27:53)Our plans for Q2 (28:51)Mentioned in this Episode:Episode 190 From Skeptical to Obsessed with Jaiden Hamilton:sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/190-from-skeptical-to-obsessed-with-jaiden-hamilton/Root To Rise Summer Camp: sabrina-gebhardt.myflodesk.com/summercampOur Quarterly Business Bestie Chats:Q1 2026: coliejames.com/business-bestie-chat-q1-2026-with-sabrina-gebhardtQ4 2025: coliejames.com/business-bestie-chat-q4-2025-with-sabrina-gebhardtQ3 2025: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/q3-business-besties-chat-with-colie-jamesQ2 2025: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/q2-2025-business-bestie-chat-with-colie-jamesQ1 2025: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/128-q1-2025-business-bestie-chatQ4 2024: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/q4-business-bestie-chat-with-colie-jamesQ3 2024: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/q3-business-besties-chat-with-colie-jamesQ2 2024: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/88-q2-business-besties-chat-with-colie-jamesQ1 2024: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast/75-quarterly-business-chat-with-colie-jamesConnect with SabrinaWebsite: sabrinagebhardt.comInstagram: instagram.com/sabrinagebhardtphotographyPodcast: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast

Here's some advice to business owners (new and established): stop waiting until you're overwhelmed to build your systems. In this episode, I sit down with Anthea Proudfoot to talk about how she built out her entire CRM and client experience instead of Systems in Session before she had a steady stream of clients.It can be complicated to retrofit your processes into your business later, after you've gotten busy and overwhelmed. In this episode, we talk about what it really looks like to build a high-touch, automated client experience from scratch, how she completed her systems in just 30 days, and why her clients are already raving—even as a newer business owner.Find It Quickly00:24 - Meet Anthea00:56 - Why Start With CRM05:01 - Systems in Session08:36 - Organic Marketing Wins10:02 - Inquiry Form Strategy14:36 - Clients Experience18:21 - The Client Proposal & Booking20:10 - Post Booking Experience Portal22:32 - Custom Systems Philosophy23:38 - Session Reminder Automation25:46 - Six Month System Tweaks30:11 - Favorite Feature Workflows33:41 - Automated Yet Personal Touch34:51 - Testimonial Form Strategy36:56 - Questionnaire Photos Planning38:45 - Why She Chose Systems in SessionMentioned in this EpisodeSystems in SessionConnect with AntheaWebsite: malonephotography.auInstagram: instagram.com/malone_photography_au

If your marketing feels like a constant cycle of chasing new leads but never quite getting the sales you want, this episode is going to change how you think about everything. Polly Pollockjoins us to dive deep into what actually works in marketing right now—especially if you're tired of relying on Instagram or social media altogether.Listen in as we talk about why so many business owners feel stuck, what's really missing in their marketing strategy, and how to shift your focus from constant visibility to building real, one-on-one connection with your audience. Polly shares her perspective as a marketing expert working with neurodivergent entrepreneurs, and together we unpack the biggest mistake people are making: ignoring the “messy middle.”Find It Quickly00:24 - Meet Polly04:47 - Repel And Attract06:55 - Marketing Beyond Instagram12:38 - Trust And Messy Middle17:30 - Nurture Systems That Work21:22 - Beyond PDFs And Sales Calls25:39 - Deep Listening Habits26:34 - Podcasts Build Trust27:35 - Audience Data Signals30:02 - Client Interviews Gold31:31 - Marketing In AI Era34:23 - Using AI To Synthesize38:54 - Do Less Better Content40:49 - Monthly Live EventsMentioned in this EpisodeEp 199: I Audited My Freebies—Here's What I FoundHow to Ask for a Client Testimonial: Strategies to Request Feedback and Get Better TestimonialsConnect with PollyWebsite: neuropreneurrising.comPodcast: Neuropreneur RisingInstagram: instagram.com/pollypollockofficialMonthly Coworking: pollypollock.myflodesk.com/tnd1j65jkw

What if automation didn't make your client experience feel colder, but actually made it feel more personal? In this episode, I'm sitting down with Ina Jalil, a pet photographer who specializes in high-touch, full-service photography for dog lovers. When Ina joined my Email Like You Mean It live sprint, it became clear almost immediately that her business was the perfect example of something so many photographers wrestle with: how do you automate communication when your process is deeply personal, intentional, and customized?Ina walks us through how she built an in-person consultation model for her pet photography business, why that shift improved both client understanding and sales, and how email still plays a critical role in keeping clients engaged between touch points. We also talk about the “messy middle” of the client journey, the silent gaps that hurt momentum, and why even seasoned photographers need to revisit their workflows from time to time.Find It Quickly01:49 - Meet Ina02:50 - Why In Person Consults08:52 - Scheduling and Studio Sales11:43 - Email Automation Role14:09 - Filling the Messy Middle19:31 - Custom Templates That Feel Personal22:03 - VA Workflows and CRM Notes26:15 - Post Session Education and Sales35:45 - Sprint Results and Three PsMentioned in this EpisodeHow to Transform Your Pet Photography Client Experience with Colie JamesEmail Like You Mean ItConnect with InaWebsite: inajphotography.comEducation: inajphotography.com/for-photographers Skool community: Pet Photographers CollectiveInstagram: @inajphotographyInstagram: @inaj.thepetphotoceo Podcast: The Pet Photographer's Journal

Hey y'all… so apparently this is episode 300

What happens when the thing you've always sold so well no longer fits the life or business you want to build? In this episode, I'm sitting down with Brittany Herzberg to unpack the real difference between done-for-you and done-with-you services, what it looks like to sit in the messy middle of an offer evolution, and why both of us are rethinking how we help clients get results.Brittany shares how she supports business owners with SEO, from website strategy and keyword research to helping them understand how all the pieces of their visibility strategy fit together. I also share more about my own shift away from done-for-you systems work and into a done-with-you model that gives my clients more confidence, more ownership, and better long-term results.If you've been wondering whether your current service model still fits the way you want to work, this conversation will give you a lot to think about.Listen to Brittany's Other Episodes on Business-First Creatives:Episode 81: SEO through Case Studies | Simple SEO Series with Brittany Herzberg (Part 3)Episode 159: Embracing Workflows & Automations in Your CRM: HoneyBook Case Study with Brittany HerzbergEpisode 202: SEO is Everywhere: Optimizing Your Content with Brittany HerzbergMentioned in this Episode:The Resonance Effect - How to Attract Action Takeers with SEO Queen Brittany HerzbergDubsadoHoneyBookGoogle Search ConsoleKeysearchChatGPTConnect with BrittanyWebsite: brittanyherzberg.comInstagram: instagram.com/brittany_herzbergThreads: threads.com/@brittany_herzbergPodcast: brittanyherzberg.com/the-basic-b-podcast

If you've ever wrapped up a project, delivered the final files, and then… just waited to see if your client comes back—you're not alone.But here's the thing: your next sale shouldn't start after the project ends.In this episode, I'm sharing a behind-the-scenes look at my recent Disney cruise (yes, I already booked another one

In the last episode, I sat down with money coach Emilie Nutley to talk about understanding your numbers, paying yourself, and planning your finances like a real business owner. Because once you actually know your numbers, the possibilities for your business start to open up.But today I want to flip the conversation to something that most people don't immediately connect to revenue: your systems.Most creatives think of systems as organization tools. Something that saves time, reduces stress, or keeps things from slipping through the cracks. And while that's true… systems can also directly impact how much money your business actually generates.So in this episode, I'm walking you through three ways your systems can help you generate more revenue this year — without simply trying to book more clients.In this episode, we cover:Why raising your prices becomes easier when your client experience actually supports itHow messy onboarding and inconsistent communication can make photographers hesitate to charge moreThe hidden capacity ceiling that happens when you're manually managing every part of your client processHow structured workflows allow you to serve more clients without increasing your workloadWhy repeat clients are often the fastest path to additional revenueThe simple system touchpoints that turn one booking into referrals, testimonials, and future rebookingsMentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 296 - The Best Financial Strategy for a Sustainable Business is Overflow with Emilie NutleySystems in Session - coliejames.com/systems

If you've been avoiding your numbers this year—this is your sign to review them. I invited financial expert Emilie Nutley to join me for a powerful, no-fluff conversation about pricing your signature offer, paying yourself consistently, and a financial concept that will completely change the way you think about business finances: overflow.We talk about why you should never price based on competitors, why revenue is not the same as take-home pay, and how to build a business that brings you both joy and a paycheck. If you've ever had inconsistent income months, questioned your pricing, or treated your business like an ATM, this episode is for you.Find It Quickly01:19 – Meet Emilie Nutley03:16 – How Much Do You Want to Pay Yourself?04:37 – Revenue Goal ÷ Capacity = Price05:41 – Need vs. Want: What Do You Actually Have to Pay Yourself?06:11 – The Bare Bones Budget Explained09:05 – The Restrict/Binge Cycle with Money16:10 – What “Overflow” Is and Why It Matters18:41 – Profit Isn't the End: What Happens After Profit21:40 – Using Overflow to Make Strategic Decisions24:20 – Overflow & Growth Decisions (Hiring, Investing, Time Off)25:11 – Revenue-Generating Hires vs. Expense Investments26:43 – The Simple Overflow Spreadsheet28:36 – Stop Living Month-to-Month in Your Business29:42 – The Habit of Paying Yourself Consistently33:08 – How Much Should You Be Saving?38:33 – The Freedom of Owning a Business40:46 – Focus on Your Signature Offer First44:17 – Thinking Long-Term: Retirement & Future PlanningConnect with EmilieWebsite: emilienutley.co.ukInstagram: instagram.com/emilienutleyYoutube: youtube.com/@fundthedamnlife

Busy season might not feel close yet—but if you rely on fall bookings, the inquiries that fill your calendar are coming sooner than you think.Instead of waiting until leads start flooding your inbox, this is the time to make sure your client experience systems are ready to support them. Because when your backend is messy, slow, or inconsistent, it becomes a lot harder to book clients confidently… and even harder to justify raising your prices.In this episode, Colie breaks down three essential systems every creative service provider should have in place before busy season begins. These systems help you book clients faster, create a smoother client experience, and build long-term relationships that lead to referrals, reviews, and repeat business.And the best part? When these systems are working well, raising your prices becomes a natural outcome—not a scary decision.In This Episode• Why waiting until slow season to raise your prices often backfires• How a faster inquiry and booking process increases booking confidence for both you and your clients• The role your client communication plays in building trust before, during, and after the service• How better delivery and offboarding leads to reviews, referrals, and repeat clients• Why preparing these systems now makes it easier to raise your prices once you're partially bookedMentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 215: The Confidence LoopSystems in Session- https://coliejames.com/systems

Busy season might not feel close yet—but if you rely on fall bookings, the inquiries that fill your calendar are coming sooner than you think.Instead of waiting until leads start flooding your inbox, this is the time to make sure your client experience systems are ready to support them. Because when your backend is messy, slow, or inconsistent, it becomes a lot harder to book clients confidently… and even harder to justify raising your prices.In this episode, Colie breaks down three essential systems every creative service provider should have in place before busy season begins. These systems help you book clients faster, create a smoother client experience, and build long-term relationships that lead to referrals, reviews, and repeat business.And the best part? When these systems are working well, raising your prices becomes a natural outcome—not a scary decision.In This Episode• Why waiting until slow season to raise your prices often backfires• How a faster inquiry and booking process increases booking confidence for both you and your clients• The role your client communication plays in building trust before, during, and after the service• How better delivery and offboarding leads to reviews, referrals, and repeat clients• Why preparing these systems now makes it easier to raise your prices once you're partially bookedMentioned in This EpisodeEpisode 215: The Confidence LoopSystems in Session- https://coliejames.com/systems

What if your side hustle wasn't just extra income, but the most creatively fulfilling part of your life? In this episode, I'm sitting down with Christi Dorsey, a nutrition expert, food science consultant, and full-time government professional. We talk about what it really looks like to build a thriving consulting business alongside a 9–5.Christi isn't new to entrepreneurship. She's been running her consulting company, Taste Symmetry, for over a decade. But as her business evolved, her systems and client communication needed to evolve with it. That's when she joined Email Like You Mean It to overhaul her customer journey and finally build backend systems that matched the elevated experience on her new website.Find It Quickly00:24 - Meet Christi Dorsey03:21 - From nutrition degrees to global food safety work07:20 - The “1099 Queen”10:18 - Why she decided to expand her business again11:40 - Why she joined Email Like You Mean It15:13 - Her Foundation Experience offer explained23:00 - Rewriting her client emails from scratch25:47 - The offboarding email and the power of repeat business29:03 - What she's working on next in her systems40:05 - Why “my emails are fine” might be holding you backMentioned in this EpisodeEmail Like You Mean ItSystems in SessionConnect with ChristiWebsite: tastesymmetry.comInstagram: @tastesymmetryLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/taste-symmetryMentioned in this EpisodeEmail Like You Mean ItSystems in SessionConnect with ChristiWebsite: tastesymmetry.comInstagram: @tastesymmetryLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/taste-symmetry

If you're trying to decide between Email Like You Mean It and Systems in Session, this episode will help you make that decision.I get asked all the time where someone should start if they want better systems in their business — and my answer is never “pick a CRM” or “build workflows.”It's always: design your client experience first.In this episode, I'm breaking down:Why mapping your customer journey comes before toolsWhat happens when you skip client experience designHow communication protects your boundaries (and increases revenue)The real difference between Email Like You Mean It and Systems in SessionHow to decide which offer is right for you right nowWhether you're ready to build full systems or you need to start with planning and communication, the order never changes:Client experience design first.Client communication second.Systems and automation last.Resources mentioned:Client Experience Series (episode 195-198)Systems in Session → coliejames.com/systemsEmail Like You Mean It → coliejames.com/email

I turned Email Like You Mean It into a 5-day done-with-you live sprint… and then immediately invited some of my Systems in Session clients to test it as pre-work.Bold? Yes.A little chaotic? Also yes.Worth it? 100%.In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how the first sprint went — what surprised me, what I learned, what I'm keeping, and what I'm changing for the next round.We're talking:Why your CRM doesn't actually matter when mapping your client communicationWhat happened when Systems in Session clients completed ELYMI before kickoffHow daily live feedback changed the pace of implementationWhat I'm adding (and standardizing) for the April sprintWhy I'm keeping this offer intentionally small (and intimate)If you've ever wondered what it looks like to build in public, test a new delivery model, or evolve an offer quickly — this is the honest behind-the-scenes.And if you want to join me for the next run of Email Like You Mean It, there are 10 spots available (and one is already gone).Details → coliejames.com/email

What if the only thing standing between you and sustainable growth in your business is your system? In today's episode, we're diving into a Systems in Session case study with Megan Smith—a full-time teacher, mom of three, farm wife, and professional home organizer. Listen in as she shares what happened when she finally stopped hiding from her systems and built the structure her business needed.While she wasn't focused on getting more clients, she wanted more confidence and excitement around the experience she was delivering. Yet within 48 hours of installing one simple piece of infrastructure, she booked a client and earned back half her investment.Find It Quickly00:32 – Meet Megan03:32 – How Her Systems Held Her Back09:31 – The ROI of Systems11:57 – Building a Unique Booking System18:55 – Creating Confidence19:27 – Raising Prices24:29 – Automations27:34 – Expanding Offers by Duplicating Systems30:06 – Marketing Meets Infrastructure34:20 – No Quick Fix in Business46:59 – The 3 R's: Rave Reviews, Referrals & Repeat ClientsConnect with MeganWebsite: megansmithstressless.comInstagram: instagram.com/megansmithstressless

Planning this episode felt like getting a dose of my own medicine.When I help clients build their five-minute booking process, I always tell them: your FAQs don't belong buried on your website. They belong right above where someone is about to pay you.So today, we're doing that for Systems in Session.If you've been wondering:Is this only for Dubsado users?Do I need this if I've had my CRM for years?Is this a course or true one-to-one support?How much time will this actually take?Can we build more than one offer?What if I've worked with you before?This episode answers all of it.You'll hear exactly what Systems in Session includes, how the 60-day done-with-you Dubsado setup works, and why most of my clients are not beginners — they're experienced service providers who are tired of babysitting their backend.Because this isn't about learning more tech.It's about building high-touch, low-effort systems that make your premium offers easy to book, effortless to deliver, and impossible to forget.If you've ever:Checked Dubsado at 2amHesitated to raise your prices because your backend feels fragileAvoided selling because delivery still feels manualFantasized about sending a proposal and getting paid within minutesThis episode is for you.What You'll Learn (AKA The Questions I'm Answering)Is Systems in Session only for Dubsado users?I've had Dubsado for years — do I still need this?Is Systems in Session a course, a group program, or true one-to-one support?How much time does this actually take each week?What happens if I don't “finish” in 60 days?Can we build more than one offer inside this container?I've worked with you before — do I still need Systems in Session?How do I prepare before we start?If you've ever:Checked Dubsado at 2amHesitated to raise your prices because your backend feels fragileAvoided selling because delivery still feels manualFantasized about sending a proposal and getting paid within minutesThis episode will help you decide your next move.Links Mentioned

Niching down your messaging can feel like a catch-22. I talk to photographers a lot—which means non-photographers sometimes wonder if Systems in Session is actually for them.Short answer? Yes.Long answer? Let's break it down.In this episode, I explain why Systems in Session works for any service-based business—not just photographers. I share who's currently inside the program (including a stationery designer, a marketing specialist, and a website designer), and why the five core workflow phases—Inquiry, Booking, Onboarding, Service & Delivery, and Offboarding—apply no matter what you sell.Because while the service may change, the client journey doesn't.If you've been wondering whether Systems in Session would work for you, even if you don't take photos for a living, this episode is for you.Learn more at coliejames.com/systems

“I can't automate that — my clients are all different.”If you've ever said that (or thought it), this episode is for you.Today kicks off a 3-part Objection Day series, where I'm tackling the most common pushback I hear about building real client experience systems.In this episode, we're talking about:Why your clients are different creatively — but not logisticallyThe difference between customization and infrastructure problemsWhy rebuilding proposals and contracts from scratch isn't “high-touch” — it's fragileHow to create systems that are 80% structured and 20% personalized (without losing the magic)Your art might be custom.The process around selling and delivering it does not have to be rebuilt every single time.If your backend only works when you remember every step… that's not premium.It's risky.And if you're ready for high-touch, low-effort systems that match your premium offers?Learn more about Systems in Session here:

Ever wonder what actually happens after someone makes a big backend decision?In this episode, I'm giving you a real update on two announcements I made last month:• Hiring a professional Notion strategist to build my marketing team dashboard• Bringing Chelsea on as my fractional CMO for 2026Spoiler: I am not abandoning Airtable. But I did need a better way to coordinate a growing team without becoming the bottleneck.I'm sharing what's working, what surprised me, and how it actually feels to wake up and not have marketing on my to-do list — while everything still moves forward.If you love behind-the-scenes updates, this one's for you.Also Mentioned:Systems in Session (Now Booking for Q2)Email Like You Mean It (next live sprint: April 6-10)Ania my Notion ExpertChelsea my Fractional CMO

If your clients are quietly disappearing, not giving testimonials, or not buying again, there is a deeply rooted problem we need to address. In this episode, I sit down with Emily Mathis to talk about outsourcing, but not in the way you think. We didn't talk about hiring editors, VAs, or handing off social media. We talked about the outsourcing you're probably ignoring: your client experience.Emily hasn't outsourced much in her own business, and that's exactly what makes her perspective powerful. Instead of defaulting to hiring help, she focuses on tightening the backend, improving delivery, and fixing what most business owners ignore: the messy middle.If you're always chasing new leads but ignoring the people already inside your container, this conversation might change how you grow your business.Mentioned in this EpisodeBreanna Owen: owenyourmark.comEpisode 256 with Breanna Owen: coliejames.com/using-human-design-to-transform-your-business-strategy-with-breanna-owenEpisode 224 with Ashton Whitmoyer-Ober: coliejames.com/how-the-enneagram-can-supercharge-your-self-awareness-with-ashton-whitmoyer-oberSystems in Session: coliejames.com/systems-in-sessionConnect with EmilyWebsite: emilymathis.coInstagram: instagram.com/emilymathis.co

When you're empowered to build your own process and be part of it, everything in your systems can change. While there is always the option to outsource your brain or hand your systems to someone else, it's even more valuable to learn how your systems actually work, build them with intention, and have the confidence to evolve them as your business grows.In today's episode, I'm joined by David Enloe to chat through his experience inside of Systems in Session, the program that (as he puts it) empowers you to build your own process and be a part of it. We talk through how one conversation turned a vague idea into a structured offer, how David's HoneyBook setup evolved, and why confidence is what most creatives really need.Find It Quickly01:05 - The Origin Story of Systems in Session05:19 - Why Now? Timing the Workflow Overhaul06:52 - Confidence Over Automation08:17 - The Power of Strategic Prep Work10:44 - Rebuilding After HoneyBook 2.012:59 - From Beta Build to Assistant Onboarding18:20 - Should You Include Your Virtual Assistant?21:31 - What Changed in David's Business24:48 - Evolving the Client Journey26:58 - How the Program Has Changed Since32:22 - Final Advice from David34:55 - The 3 R's: Reviews, Referrals, Repeat ClientsMentioned in this EpisodeSystems in Session: coliejames.com/systems-in-sessionEpisode 241: Systems in Session ft. Erin Belles: coliejames.com/done-with-you-dubsado-setup-case-studyConnect with DavidWebsite: theenloecreative.com

When I sent out a “why didn't you buy?” survey after a slow launch, I didn't expect one of those responses to turn into one of my favorite transformation stories. That's exactly what happened with Emily Sterne, a long-time DIYer who needed guidance, but also didn't want someone to do it all for her either.What she really needed was a middle ground that offered support, accountability, and someone to walk alongside her. That's what she found inside Systems in Session with me. Done-with-you gave her the clarity and confidence she was missing without giving up control.284Find It Quickly01:02 - Meet Emily04:52 - The Myth of Outsourcing09:20 - Emily's Systems Before Systems in Session11:39 - Transition to HoneyBook13:05 - What Emily Had Already Built (and What Was Missing)14:10 - Pricing Comes First18:42 - The True Outcome of Systems In Session23:32 - 12 Sessions Booked While Moving27:24 - Trusting Automations29:35 - Systems Aren't Set & ForgetMentioned in this EpisodeSystems in Session: coliejames.com/systems-in-sessionEpisode 241: Systems in Session ft. Erin Belles: coliejames.com/done-with-you-dubsado-setup-case-study

If you've ever thought, “If my proposal just looked better, this would be easier,” you're not wrong — but that's only part of the story.In this solo episode, I'm breaking down why pretty proposals can close sales faster… and why they stop working when the system around them isn't doing its job. Your proposal isn't just an invoice — it's a WOW moment. And when it doesn't convert, it's usually the first place your booking system is breaking down.We're talking about the difference between design and clarity, why proposals expose gaps in your client experience, and what actually makes a proposal feel premium, intentional, and easy to say yes to.In this episode, you'll learn:Why “I just need a prettier proposal” is such a common (and understandable) beliefHow proposals act as a gateway — not the fix — in your booking systemThe difference between speeding up decisions and creating real clarityWhat makes a proposal feel like a WOW experience instead of paperworkWhy pretty proposals only work when the system around them worksIf you want your proposal to stop working so hard — and start shining inside a clear booking process — this episode is for you.✨ Ready to build a booking system you trust? Learn more about Systems in Session at coliejames.com/systems-in-session

Ever had a dream client inquire, seem excited… and then disappear?No reply.No booking.Just silence.In this episode, I'm breaking down why ghosting usually isn't about your price or competition — it's about what happens after someone raises their hand to work with you.If you've ever felt like you're doing “all the right things” but still losing leads, this episode will help you zoom out and see where the breakdown is actually happening.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeThe three core elements of your inquiry + booking process that directly affect conversionsWhy fixing your systems in isolation creates leaks you can't seeHow your instant inquiry response can either build momentum or quietly stall itWhy a “pretty” proposal doesn't automatically lead to bookingsHow follow-up emails help clients finish decisions they already wanted to makeWhen a sales call replacement video can work better than a live callRelated Episodes Mentioned:Episode 225: Instant Inquiry Response Red FlagsEpisode 198: How to Create a 5-Minute Booking ProcessEpisode 108: The Magic of Follow-Up EmailsEpisode 280: Stop Overthinking Your Follow-Up EmailsIf you're tired of guessing which part of your booking process is broken, this is exactly what we design inside Systems in Session.➡️ Learn more at coliejames.com/sis

This quarter's business bestie chat is juicier than ever. We're tackling real business wins, real pivots, and real lessons. Listen in as Sabrina and I share what we actually did in Q4 2025 and what we're strategizing for Q1 2026.Find It QuicklyCatching up with Sabrina and Colie (00:24)How the Biz Bestie chats work (02:01)Sabrina's major rebrand (03:34)The end of Colie's CRM Blueprint (09:04)The shift in Colie's offers (13:15)Sabrina's Root To Rise launch (18:02)Playing the long game (24:15)Sabrina and Colie's ad experiments (30:56)Plans for the rest of Q1 (38:12)Mentioned in this EpisodeShowit: showit.comTonic: tonicsiteshop.comEmail Like You Mean It: /coliejames.com/email-like-you-mean-itEpisode 268: Personalizing the Client Communication Experience with Geneviève Masioni: coliejames.com/personalizing-the-client-communication-experience-with-genevieve-masioniThe First Class Lounge: sabrinagebhardt.com/membershipEpisode 264: How Human Design Is Influencing The Way We Do Business with Sabrina Gebhardt: coliejames.com/how-human-design-is-influencing-the-way-we-do-business-with-sabrina-gebhardtEpisode 005: Avoiding Burnout with Sabrina Gebhardt: coliejames.com/005Business Bestie Chat Q4 – 2025 with Sabrina Gebhardt: coliejames.com/business-bestie-chat-q4-2025-with-sabrina-gebhardtConnect with SabrinaWebsite: sabrinagebhardt.comInstagram: instagram.com/sabrinagebhardtphotographyPodcast: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast

You already know you're allowed to email your clients. But what happens after you send the proposal… and hear nothing?In this episode, Colie breaks down when to follow up, why follow-up builds trust (not annoyance), and what to say so it doesn't feel awkward or salesy. She shares how her approach to follow-up has evolved over the years, why “just checking in” emails fall flat, and how using client stories inside follow-ups helps leads actually finish the decision they started.This episode is a continuation of Stop Being Afraid to Email Your Own Clients and connects directly to the Confidence Loop — closing communication gaps so trust doesn't leak.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy silence after a proposal is unfinished thinking, not rejectionWhen follow-up is appropriate (and expected) — without guessing or spiralingWhy “just checking in” emails feel weird (and what to say instead)How to plan follow-ups in advance so they don't feel needy or emotionalWhy your follow-up emails should do more than remind someone the offer existsHow Colie uses short client stories inside follow-ups to support real decisionsWhen real urgency should be named — and why fake urgency hurts trustLinks & Resources MentionedStop Being Afraid to Email Your Own Clients (Ep 279)Episode 108: The Magic of the Follow-UpEmail Like You Mean It – 5-Day Done-With-You Client Communication SprintKai Davis' “Magic Email” themagicemail.comReady to Stop Overthinking Follow-Up?Follow-up isn't about chasing people down.It's about closing communication gaps and supporting a decision your client already opened.If you're tired of second-guessing what to send, when to send it, and whether you're being “too much,” join Email Like You Mean It. In five days, you'll map your full client journey and write every email you need — from inquiry to delivery — with clarity and confidence.Learn more at coliejames.com/emailNext sprint begins Feb 2nd

What if the secret to managing ADHD wasn't massive systems or productivity hacks, but tiny, repeatable actions? In this episode, I'm joined by systems strategist Angela Tan, who shares how she uses “microsystems” to run her business and life with more ease, all while navigating ADHD.From missed emails to abandoned leftovers to paralyzing decision fatigue, Angela opens up about her journey to self-awareness and how she built personalized systems that actually work. She walks us through how ADHD shows up in unexpected ways (especially in business) and the small steps she's taken to stay focused, reduce overwhelm, and create structure without rigidity.Find It Quickly00:24 - Meet Angela Tan02:12 - ADHD and Microsystems05:53 - What are Microsystems?08:09 - The YAP Method for ADHD18:08 - Sales Before Hyperfocus22:44 - Automated RemindersMentioned in this EpisodeScaling Your 1-to-1 Service into a Digital Product with Angela TanHero AppConnect with AngelaWebsite: thesystemsrx.comInstagram: instagram.com/thesystemsrx

Worried about annoying your clients if you follow up?This episode is your permission slip.In this pep talk + rant, I'm breaking down why emailing your own clients isn't pushy, why silence doesn't mean “no,” and how overthinking follow-ups is quietly costing you money — and your sanity.I'm also sharing a real example from my own life where I was the one who needed multiple follow-ups before booking… and why that didn't make the service provider annoying — it made them professional.If you've ever stared at a draft email wondering if you should send it, this episode is for you.And if this episode hits because client emails feel way harder than they should, I share how Email Like You Mean It helps you map your client journey and write emails you can send with confidence — without second-guessing every follow-up.coliejames.com/email

What if the key to breaking through in your business isn't another tactic, but understanding how you're wired to show up?In this episode, I sit down with my business bestie, Sabrina Gebhardt, and we dive into how our respective Human Design types and profiles are actively informing how we run our businesses. From offer structure and messaging to launches and audience connection, listen in as we go deep into what our charts say and how that's showing up in real life and our businesses.Find It Quickly00:23 - Introduction to Human Design with Sabrina01:48 - Discovering Our Human Designs03:45 - The Impact of Human Design on Business04:27 - Human Design Profiles: Generator and Manifester07:20 - Practical Applications of Human Design13:48 - Sales Strategies and Human Design19:52 - Long-Term vs. Short-Term Offers22:13 - Ideal Client Types and Human Design23:21 - Discovering the Perfect Client Match23:49 - The Role Model and Investigator25:04 - Client Success Stories26:09 - Human Design Insights27:00 - Empowering Women Leaders29:29 - Tailored Systems for Success35:18 - Brutal Honesty in Business Coaching38:58 - Future Projects and Human DesignMentioned in this EpisodeShoot It Straight Episode 162: Human Design Energetics and Business with Breanna OwenBusiness-First Creatives: Using Human Design to Transform Your Business Strategy with Breanna OwenBusiness-First Creatives: What's the Best Way To Set Up Your CRM? CRM Blueprint vs. Systems in Session with Megan NormanConnect with SabrinaWebsite: sabrinagebhardt.comInstagram: instagram.com/sabrinagebhardtphotographyPodcast: sabrinagebhardt.com/podcast

What if the reason your marketing doesn't feel "on" isn't that you need more strategy, but that your brand personality hasn't been uncovered or defined yet?In this conversation with Alethea Tyler of Copy with Spice, we get real about what brand personality actually is, how it differs (and overlaps) with your personal personality, and why letting your authentic self show up in your business is one of the biggest competitive advantages you have.Find It Quickly00:24 - Diving into Brand Personality02:24 - The Importance of Authenticity03:57 - Embracing Uniqueness in Your Brand06:42 - Balancing Personal and Brand Personality10:33 - Steps to Define Your Brand Personality15:03 - Understanding Competitors and Differentiation21:20 - Integrating Brand Personality Across All Messaging21:52 - Brand Personality's Impact Beyond Messaging24:06 - Tailoring Messaging for Different Platforms26:06 - Website Copy as the Foundation27:47 - Unexpected Places for Brand Personality31:02 - Evolving and Maintaining Brand PersonalityConnect with AletheaWebsite: copywithspice.comInstagram: instagram.com/copywithspiceTake the Quiz: copywithspice.com/personality-quiz

What if success in business didn't look like 6 figures, a big team, or endless growth? In this episode, I sit down with Maggie Patterson to explore why staying small and strategic can be a powerful, joyful, and profitable choice. We unpack the cultural myth of the “six‑figure business,” how to set realistic salary and revenue goals, when (and whether) to hire help, and how your season of life should shape your business.Find It Quickly00:24 - Redefining Success in Business02:19 - The Myth of Six-Figure Success08:19 - Setting Realistic Revenue Goals17:39 - Strategic Hiring Decisions27:28 - Leading and Communicating in Business28:12 - The Importance of Detailed SOPs30:03 - Mindset and Comparison in Business32:44 - Realistic Business Growth and Personal Capacity34:35 - Aligning Business with Life Seasons38:56 - Making Informed Business Decisions44:55 - Recognizing When to PivotConnect with Maggie:Website: bsfreebusiness.comThreads: threads.com/@bsfreebusinessIG: instagram.com/bsfreebusinessStaying Solo Podcast: bsfreebusiness.com/podcastStaying Solo Book: bsfreebusiness.com/bookReal Life Rule Quiz: bsfreebusiness.com/quiz

I just booked my first Disneyland trip of the year, and the second I hit confirm, my brain went straight into planning mode — not because I love spreadsheets (okay, maybe a little), but because Disneyland is not a place you wing it.And neither is your client experience.In this episode, I walk you through why planning a Disney day is the exact same skill you need to design a calm, trustworthy client journey — and why most people make email writing way harder than it needs to be by skipping this step.You'll hear:Why your customer journey doesn't need to be complicated — it just needs to existHow mapping your touchpoints prevents overwhelm, silence, and confusionThe real reason writing client emails feels exhausting and repetitiveWhy “what happens next?” emails are a process issue, not a client issueHow planning the journey first makes email writing faster, clearer, and easierIf you're tired of making decisions in the moment, rewriting the same emails, or feeling like your client experience only works because you're babysitting it — this episode will show you where to start.Inside Email Like You Mean It, we map your full customer journey first, then write every email that supports it together in five focused days — so you can finally trust the process you're walking your clients through.➡️ The next sprint starts February 2ndLearn more at coliejames.com/emailAnd if a Disney trip has been on your to-do list? Take this as your sign to book it — and actually enjoy it.

Welcome back to another year of the Business-First Creatives podcast.If you listened to last week's episode with Kylie Kelly, we talked a lot about permission — permission to simplify your visibility and stop forcing strategies that don't fit your life or business.This episode is my personal follow-through.If you're craving clarity, support, and a more sustainable way to grow in 2026, this episode is for you.In This Episode, You'll Hear:The three things you actually need to generate revenue (and what usually gets overcomplicated)Why Systems in Session became my signature offerHow done-with-you support changes implementation and confidenceWhy Email Like You Mean It is now a 5-day done-with-you sprintWhat it looks like to stop borrowing someone else's visibility planHow I'm approaching visibility, systems, and revenue going into 2026Ways to Work With MeEmail Like You Mean It — a 5-day, done-with-you client communication sprintSystems in Session — my signature 60-day container to design and implement your full client experienceIf you're not sure what you need yet, come find me on Threads — I'm always happy to point you to the right resource or next step.Other ResourcesBuilding Authority and Visibility with Kylie Kelly - Last Week's Episode

Does growing your business without showing up on Instagram sound like a dream? In today's episode, visibility strategist Kylie Kelly joins us to explain how entrepreneurs can build authority, leads, and actual paying clients without having to live on social media. If you're tired of the “you must be on Instagram to succeed” narrative, this is your permission slip to do business your way.Find It Quickly00:24 - Meet Kylie01:47 - Kylie's Journey from Photography to Systems03:24 - The Power of Email Marketing06:06 - Experimenting with Marketing Strategies08:26 - The Importance of Data-Driven Decisions12:13 - Adapting and Pivoting in Business16:18 - Taking Action and Building Confidence18:58 - Personal Stories and Reflections21:38 - Permission to Take Action26:41 - Discussing AI Bots and Lead Magnets28:00 -Breakthrough Audits and Their Impact32:56 - Human Connection in Business34:29 - Networking Events and Their Benefits36:13 - Empire Expansion EventsMentioned in this Episode:Empire Expansion Event: kyliekelly.com/eventColie's Networking Events: coliejames.com/connectionConnect with KylieWebsite: kyliekelly.comPodcast: kyliekelly.com/category/podcastEmpire Expansion Event: kyliekelly.com/event

In this end-of-year episode, I'm breaking down how I spent money inside my business in 2025 — and more importantly, how I made those decisions.This isn't a profit report or an expense spreadsheet walkthrough. It's a behind-the-scenes look at what I chose to invest in, what I outsourced, why the podcast is my biggest marketing expense, and how warm-up offers completely changed the way I decide who to work with and where to put my money.I'm also sharing how this buying behavior pushed me to rethink my own warm-up offers, what I'm carrying into 2026, and why my word for the year is simplify.If you're thinking more intentionally about your spending, your offers, or how you want to work next year — this one's for you.In this episode, we cover:How I evaluate purchases and investments in my businessWhat I outsource and why retainers matter to meWhy the podcast is my biggest and best marketing investmentHow I use warm-up offers to test fit before committing long-termWhy “no” can still be a powerful return on investmentWhat's changing (and staying) in 2026Links MentionedSystems in SessionEmail Like You Mean ItClient Experience Audit1:1 60-Min Strategy & Implementation CallsPing Pong Offers Episode on Business-First CreativesMy Tech StackMy ResourcesOffers I Invested In (aff links)Sold Out Services with Emylee WilliamsDama on Demand with Dama JueMissed the Memo with Hollie of Latitude LaneSales Parade with Ceels LockleyCashflow Confident (now Six Figure Safety) with Emilie NutleyLaunch Your Own Way with Kelsey McCormick of Coming Up RosesSay Less Sales Messaging Sprint with Chelsea QuintEmail Growth Club with Kylie Kelly

Today's episode is a replay from a conversation that originally aired on the Capture the Chaos podcast with Brittnie Renee—and it perfectly captures this client communication shift I've been talking about more and more lately.We're diving into why clear client communication should be non-negotiable if you want to deliver a truly high-touch experience. Not luxury for the sake of luxury—but an experience that feels intentional, professional, and confidence-building at every step.If your systems technically work but still require too much babysitting, this episode will help you understand why communication—not more automation—is usually the missing piece.In This Episode, We Talk About:Why fixing broken workflows alone doesn't fix a poor client experienceHow email communication builds trust and connection throughout the processWhy clients need guidance even when your automation is workingThe difference between moving tasks forward and guiding people forwardHow clear communication supports a high-touch experience without adding more manual workMentioned Links & ResourcesEmail Like You Mean It (Live 5-Day Client Communication Sprint - starts Feb 2nd): coliejames.com/emailListen to Capture the Chaos podcast: brittnierenee.com/capture-the-chaos-podcast

In 2026, I want you to stop fixing your emails last—because it's costing you money.The last two case study episodes of this podcast prove it.In this episode, I break down why “broken workflows” are usually a communication problem, not a tech problem, why client communication has to come before workflows, and what finally clicked for me after recording those two case studies.There's a shift coming to Email Like You Mean It in 2026—and this episode explains why.

Wouldn't it be nice to automate 80% of your client communication, while still sending personalized emails and booking high-ticket clients? That's exactly what Geneviève Masioni did after going through my program, Email Like You Mean It!Today, Geneviève is joining me to break down how she revamped her entire client communication system using the exact tools, templates, and strategies I teach inside the course.She went from rewriting the same messages and manually sending reminders to a streamlined, personality-driven system that books, upsells, and collects testimonials without her lifting a finger.Mentioned in this EpisodeEmail Like You Mean ItConnect with GenevièveWebsite: genevievemasioni.com/enLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/genevieve-masioni/Free 15-min audit: genevievemasioni.com/colie

If you still think that a system for booking and onboarding new clients has to be complicated, this is the episode for you. What if you could take a potential client from inquiry to payment in under five minutes? In this episode, I sit down my copywriter Kara Duncan to show exactly how a fast, thoughtful, and human booking process changed her business.You'll hear how a simple CRM, a quick Loom video, and thoughtful follow-up emails turned missed opportunities into the fastest payment she's ever received. The best part? No sales calls required.Find It Quickly:00:25 - Welcome Kara Duncan00:52 - The Five-Minute Booking Process02:01 - Client Communication: The Key to Success05:21 - Enhancing Proposals with Loom Videos14:17 - The Importance of Follow-Up Emails22:11 - The Importance of Detailed Proposals23:22 - The Power of Loom Videos23:58 - Overcoming Sales Call Challenges24:57 - Effective Client Communication26:07 - The Value of Personalized Videos27:41 - Sales Calls vs. Video Proposals28:54 - Client Communication Strategies32:32 - The Five-Minute Booking Process39:53 - Reassuring Clients Post-PaymentMentioned in this Episode:Email Like You Mean ItEpisode 39 of The Kara Report: How to Create One (+ More Tips to SIMPLIFY Your Life With Your CRM) with Colie JamesEpisode 14 of The System for Everything: The System for Keeping It Personal (Even When It's Prewritten) with Colie JamesEpisode 123 of Business-First Creatives: 3 Videos to Create for Your Client Experience Right Now (Video Visibility Series)Connect with Kara:Website: thekarareport.comPodcast: thekarareport.com/podcastInstagram: instagram.com/thekarareport

If you think the key to business growth is chasing website stats, are you considering the fact that those numbers may not tell the full story? In this episode, metrics and data specialist Zoë Dew shares how tracking behaviors, not just clicks, can transform your revenue and clarity.Zoë explains how she helps creative entrepreneurs grow by using data already sitting in their business, and not by chasing fleeting “industry-standard” metrics. We dig into the four core behaviors that predict sales and how to start tracking them, even if you hate spreadsheets.Find It Quickly00:42 - Meet Zoe01:18 - The Importance of Data and Metrics02:25 - Behavior-Driven Business Strategies02:57 - Tracking and Analyzing Business Activities04:53 - The Four Key Business Behaviors06:15 - Email Marketing Insights07:44 - Compounding Visibility and Customer Journey09:36 - Effective Email Strategies19:28 - Growing and Managing Your Email List20:57 - Collaborations and Ads for List Growth22:26 - The Creator Network Experience24:34 - Challenges of List Growth and Audience Size25:18 - Importance of Data-Driven Decisions26:20 - Tracking and Analyzing Audience Behavior31:23 - Tools for Tracking Website and Sales Data33:49 - Understanding Customer Behavior and Sales Patterns37:49 - Re-engaging Potential Customers44:16 - The Power of Consistent MessagingMentioned in this EpisodeZero Google Moment of TruthCeels Lockley - Email ParadeGoogle AnalyticsMicrosoft ClarityHotjarHannah Isted - 10 Minute MarketingConnect with ZoëWebsite: zoedew.comInstagram: instagram.com/zoerdew Threads: threads.com/@zoerdewHabit Tracker: zoedew.com/business-first-creatives

Do you dread the word launch, because you think that "doors open/doors close” structure feels icky? We're flipping the script in today's episode with Samantha Hoillett! She's showing us how to build urgency into our launches that doesn't feel pushy, but it does feel aligned.Listen in as we explore what urgency normally means in marketing, why so many of us do it the usual way (limited spots, price‑going‑up soon, and hurry), and then how you can shift into urgency rooted in your client's real internal motivations, not just your business timetable.Find It Quickly00:24 - The Ickiness of Traditional Launches00:59 - Introducing Samantha and the Concept of Urgency01:08 - Redefining Urgency in Marketing02:03 - The Evolution of Online Courses05:12 - Internal vs. External Urgency09:40 - The Importance of Clear Messaging14:36 - Balancing Pain Points and Results19:35 - Diagnosing Business Problems24:42 - High Converting Proposals: The First Win26:01 - The Importance of Micro Wins27:37 - Documenting Client Journeys29:44 - Value Stacking and Communicating Results33:21 - Email Marketing Strategies40:16 - Personalizing Email CampaignsMentioned in this EpisodeUrgency on Evergreen: samanthahoilett.com/urgency-on-evergreenUrgency Upgrade: samanthahoilett.com/urgency-upgrade-2026Connect with SamanthaWebsite: samanthahoilett.comInstagram: instagram.com/samanthahoilett.writesYoutube: youtube.com/@samanthahoilettTheads: threads.com/@samanthahoilett.writes