Business Straight Up Podcast - Business Help for Creative Entrepreneurs & Photographers

Full shownotes: http://boldwithbrooke.com/100 Have you ever worked with someone and could tell that they just weren't super jazzed about what they were doing? Maybe it was a teacher that wasn't really present in class, or someone that came to fix your furnace and you could tell they would rather be doing literally ANYTHING else. Being fully aligned with your business and having proper boundaries will mean more clarify, confidence and excitement. Simplifying processes will open that even more. In today's episode we are going to talk all about alignment and why it matters in your business, marketing and sales. AND, this is the official announcement of my rebranding and the new name of the podcast! Listen in and let me know what you think!

Full shownotes: https://boldwithbrooke.com/099 I have been talking with several business owners lately, and I feel like I'm repeating myself over and over again so I wanted to create an episode ALL about this. Reality check: when you reach your goals, your life is NOT complete. In today's episode, we are going to talk all about what the finish line REALLY looks like. Plus, an update on what's coming! We have the ever popular email marketing class - FREE - coming up this week on April 20th. Sign up here: https://boldwithbrooke.com/workshop

Full Shownotes: https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/098 A little more tough love in this final episode in this series: You will never outperform your identity. Today's episode is Part 8 in the 8 part series Must Have Skills for Success in Business - and I saved the best for last. Okay, maybe not the best, but definitely one of the most important. Today we are going to chat all about MINDSET. What does that actually mean? Why does it matter? More importantly, I want you to ask yourself: what stories am I holding onto that are stopping me from growing and reaching my biggest goals? What beliefs do I have that need to change? What isn't serving me anymore that I need to let go of? I know this is a big topic, but it's so incredibly important! Listen in, then leave an awesome iTunes review pretty please, k? https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/itunes If you want more information about the workshop coming up at the end of February, go here: https://www.bolddwithbrooke.com/workshop If you're like BROOKE I don't need the workshop I just want to dive right in with some learning and accountability to start marketing my business in a way that I know will bring me the clients I need and want, go here: http://www.boldmarketingacademy.com

Full Shownotes: https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/097 Tough love time: YOU WILL FAIL. And that's okay. Welcome to part 7 of this series on Must Have Skills for success in business! We are going to talk about something that hurts my little recovering perfectionist heart sometimes - failure. Because the reality is that you WILL fail if you go into business - and that's okay. It's not the end of the world. Business - and life, really - is just a series of trying new things, seeing if they work, and if they don't, you try something new. If only it was that easy to actually EMBRACE that, right? Let's chat ALL about failure - and I promise you, this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and maybe even a little bit lighter, this is NOT a doom and gloom episode.

Full Shownotes: https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/096 Do you all ever prepare something that you THINK is going to be short and sweet, and then you realize it's a lot bigger than you planned? Today's episode is going to be one that people may not like, it might ruffle some feathers, but this is part 6 in the series of must have skills for success in business. If you haven't listened to parts 1-5, don't worry, they are forever living online - so go to boldwithbrooke.com/podcast to see all of the past episodes. Today we are going to chat ALL about the numbers! Knowing your numbers, analytics and KPI's is absolutely essential, and a must have skill for success in business, and it is today's episode and part 6!

Full Shownotes: https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/095 Welcome back amazing business owners - to another episode of Business Straight Up - which will soon be changing by the way. Today's episode is part 5 in the 8 part series of MUST have skills for success in business - and we are going to chat about something that strikes fear into the heart of SO many sales people: sales. Far too many business owners feel ALL sorts of emotions when that word is even muttered - and it's time to face it, head on. Listen in for some of my tips in sales, and 4 things you must know and embrace to see the success you want to see in your business when it comes to sales.

Full Shownotes: https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/094 Here we are - part four - and this is one of my most favorite things to work on - MARKETING! So many people think they can just start a business and announce it once, and they're done, people will be flocking to them like crazy to pay them for what they do. The reality is that it just doesn't work that way. Here's my little truth bomb of glitter: It doesn't matter if you're the best at what you do - if you can't market & sell yourself, you won't be in business for long. You have probably heard me say it before, and I will probably say it in the next episode and several more for years to come - because it's absolutely true. Now the METHOD that you use to market yourself can vary greatly, there are so many strategies and techniques that you can choose from. But you absolutely must start talking about what you do, showing your work, and inviting people to work with you. Listen in, then head to the community at http://boldwithbrooke.com/community to let me know your biggest takeaways! If Instagram is your preference, take a screenshot and tag me on IG @businessstraightup - I would love to know your aha moments! This episode is available on the YouTube channel, click here to watch the video!

Full shownotes: https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/093 Bottom line - running a business is never EASY. If it was easy, everyone would do it, and yet we live in a culture that, while change is coming, is still made up primarily of employees. It takes courage to step out from what you know to start a business. And it takes even more courage to keep going when you reach a point where you feel like giving up. In today's episode we are going to talk about something that I have watched take down so many small businesses - they just STOP. What is the fix for this? It sounds simplistic and silly, but it is truly just DOING THE WORK. Listen in, then let me know your biggest takeaways!

Full shownotes at https://www.boldwithbrooke.com/092 I have watched SO many people say that marketing strategies "don't work." Guess what - there are so many strategies that DO work, and people wouldn't share them if they weren't seeing some success with them. BUT - there are some things to consider when implementing a marketing strategy. Today's QUICKIE episode is all about 4 things to consider before saying a marketing strategy "doesn't work."

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/091 Relationships are non-negotiable in building a business, but what does that look like? What type of relationships are worth spending your time on, and what do you need to let go of? What do you do when your family doesn't support your business? How can you make your clients really feel special? ALL of these things matter, and we are going to cover them all in today's episode - because RELATIONSHIPS MATTER! We are going to talk about the 5 types of relationships that you really need in your business, and what to look for or watch out for in each. Listen in, then tell me - what is a relationship that YOU want to grow in your business? This episode is also available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/businessstraightup

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/090 Must Have Skills for Success in Business Part 1- Stay Teachable This is part 1 of 7 - although if I'm being completely transparent, it might end up being more than 7. When I was writing down these skills, I started with 6, and more kept coming. There are a few things that business owners have mastered - and it's not necessarily what you think. YES, you should absolutely master your craft and know what you do inside and out. YES, it's important to know and follow all local laws to make sure that your business is legit. But SO MUCH of being successful in business has everything to do with YOU. Mastering the inner work, your mindset, overcoming your own head trash and blocks that might be stopping you. Anyone can download a blueprint, a step by step template, but two very different people can have the same exact blueprint, and yet have very different results - why is that? Today we are going to talk about what it means to stay TEACHABLE and to keep learning. This is rooted in some nasty trends that I'm seeing in my own industry, as well as others - namely, the ego that gets in the way when someone is offering some help, particularly help that was requested. Listen in and let me know what you think in the community at https://www.businessstraightup.com/community

Full Shownotes: https://businessstraightup.com/089 A seasonal update, plus - there is a new series coming! This is a quickie episode with an update for this upcoming season, and some details for the new series that I've been working on that will be a total of 7 episodes.

Systems, Boundaries & VIP Days with Jordan Gill {Ep 088} Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/088 As a service based business owner, we are inextricably tied to our businesses. Even when we have help in the form of a team, we are still tied to providing a service in order to be paid. Jordan Gill helps doers, service providers and CEO's to add another revenue stream with VIP Days. Jordan has a system that allows solopreneurs to create and sell larger offers so they can work less and live more. I'm absolutely guessing here, but if I had to estimate, I would say that 95% of my students go into business for themselves because they want FREEDOM in their lives. Embracing VIP days, boundaries and systems so that certain tasks can be automated takes some work up front, but is absolutely well worth it in the end! Listen in as Jordan and I talk about people pleasing, the mind trash that we all have in some form or another, and what VIP days can look like in YOUR business.

Do you actively protect your time and energy? Not just in your business, but in your LIFE. Do you listen to those little nudges, and your intuition as a business owner? I have been in business technically for 16 years now and I can tell you with 100% honesty - I'm JUST learning this y'all. Our time and energy are SO valuable and yet we waste them consistently. I say this with love, because it is definitely something that I struggle with too. And listening to my gut is a lesson that I've had to learn over and over again - and usually those lessons aren't easy ones. Anyone else raising their hand when thinking of listening to that intuition as a business owner in dealing with difficult people? No? Just me? I didn't think so... Today's guest is Carla Reeves - a wife, mom of two boys, coach, consultant, mentor and passionate about squeezing the juice out of everyday life - her life's work is working with people who are ambitious for a different kind of more! Carla is an amazing coach, and I absolutely love this discussion! It's NEVER too late to start learning to listen to your intuition as a business owner, and to protect your time and energy fiercely. Listen in, then head to the community at https://www.businessstraightup.com/community to let me know your biggest takeaways! If Instagram is your preference, take a screenshot and tag me on IG @businessstraightup - I would love to know your aha moments! This episode is available on the YouTube channel, you can view it at youtube.com/businessstraightup

Full Shownotes: https://businessstraightup.com/086 What if you could share ALL of you, and have people love you even MORE, and watch your business take off? I want to offer that maybe that's the KEY to the growth that you're looking for! Today's guest is the ever amazing Kira Hug: a personality-driven conversion copywriter, co-founder of The Copywriter Club and co-host of The Copywriter Club Podcast. We are going to chat all about copy in your business, what that looks like, but even more importantly - how can you use it to really share YOU so that you can see the business growth that you want to see? Listen in then head over to the community at https://businessstraightup.com/community and let me know your biggest takeaway, I know that I have a list of several!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/085 Part two of two in this series on how to run a successful business with ADHD! I'm sure there will be more in the future as I'm getting a LOT of questions, but let's finish up this series! This part even includes a free tracking sheet so that you can measure the things you need to look at regularly in your business - WHAAAAT?! Yep, completely free at https://www.businessstraightup.com/analytics Today we are going to go through strategies three through eight. How to do a brain dump to free up some mental energy. What apps to use. How to get some support in this chaos of business and LIFE. What to measure, and how to actually see growth in your business (spoiler alert - taking action!) instead of just consuming more and procrastilearning. Listen in, then head to the community at https://www.businessstraightup.com/community to let me know your biggest takeaways! If Instagram is your preference, take a screenshot and tag me on IG @businessstraightup - I would love to know your aha moments!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/084 What does it look like to run a business - successfully - with ADHD? Why do people who have ADHD often start their own businesses? How the heck can I get myself to focus long enough to see the success I want in my business? In this episode we are going to go through ALL of this, plus more. I share a little of my own background in dealing with my own focus issues, as well as my son, and we are going to talk about the strategies that I've used to help. This is part 1 of a 2 part series, so stay tuned for part 2!

Today's bonus episode is a quickie! Yep, I went there. This is a quick update about the podcast, updated content, and MORE, listen in!

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/082 Confession - I've been holding onto this episode for far too long. This is an episode that touched on so many subjects that are near and dear to my heart, with an amazing guest - the incomparable Jen Rozenbaum. Jen is an amazing boudoir photographer, speaker and author who has not only built an amazing boudoir business, but has taken her message and impact even FURTHER after her fight with breast cancer. In this episode we talk about resilience in business and life. Feminism and women empowering THEMSELVES instead of waiting for someone else. The wisdom that comes with age, and how to model that for our kids. There is even a moment where I tear up a bit - so if you're listening in audio and would prefer to watch the video, check it out on my YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/businessstraightup In short - this episode is one that I know will touch your heart, and light a fire under you to kick as* in your business. Listen in, and reach out and let me know your biggest takeaway. Screenshot the episode and share on Instagram and tag me @businessstraightup . I know that this episode will be a powerful one for so many people, check it out!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/081 Here we are, another January, another month of new years resolutions that we hope don't flop, right? WRONG. I want to talk to you about more than just goals, but really DESIGNING your life, and then setting business goals to get there. What do you REALLY want? If I asked you that and you have NO IDEA how to answer that, you're not alone. There are so many people in this world that just accept life as it is, instead of realizing that they are the creator of their lives, that they get to choose. Sometimes we act like there are adults that actually run the world, that they decide things, and that we just go along with it. We accept what is given to us, wish for more, but never actually do anything about getting what we want. By the way, why are we looking for these magical adults that run the world? Like, adultier adults? It doesn't work that way! YOU are responsible for your life, YOU get to decide what you do, and anything you want is possible. If you have been waiting for someone to give you permission, I have zero authority to do this but neither does anyone else but YOU so here you go - here is your permission, permission granted, live the life you want. Let's talk ALL about designing your life to include the things you want, and setting business goals to bring you there, listen in!

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/080 Leadership isn't just a term for the billionaires and politicians in the world - I believe every single business owner is a leader in some way, because stepping outside of the norm in our culture of getting a job is, at its core, rebellious. We ARE leaders. And doing so means taking responsibility for our actions - or LACK of actions. How many courses have you purchased that you've never actually touched? Have you ever found yourself cursing the course and thinking about how crappy it was, instead of looking at your own lack of implementation? Y'all I am saying these things and feel like I'm looking into a mirror here - I am NOT immune to this. Stacy Tuschl is a bestselling author, podcast host and founder of the Foot Traffic Formula - helping small businesses around the world get more customers in the door, and this episode is FILLED with tidbits on leadership, implementation, and actually putting into place the systems that your business needs.

Shownotes COMING SOON (Brooke is traveling!) at https://www.businessstraightup.com/079 Day 3 of my New York City adventures! This one was inspired by the first half of my day, sitting on the rooftop terrace and enjoying the view while eating my bagel, while knowing in the back of my head that I had traveled to another state and SHOULD be going to see the sites somewhere. What are you telling yourself you SHOULD be doing? What is the little voice in your head telling you that you SHOULD be thinking about? One of my coaches tells me "Brooke stop shoulding all over yourself" - and it's SO true. We are the creators of our lives, and when we run a business, we have even MORE freedom to design them the way we want! Or at least, we should.

Shownotes COMING SOON (Brooke is traveling!) at https://www.businessstraightup.com/078 Day 2 of my New York City adventures, inspired by my first trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. WOW - I did almost the entire museum, I only missed one wing, and being around all of the amazing work was a reminder of the importance of sharing our work, our art, our creations. One piece in particular inspired me, it was declined as a billboard because it was too controversial, and ended up on the BUSES in NYC. Spoiler alert: in this episode I have a message specifically for the ladies, but it will apply to our amazing male friends who are along for this business ride too. Listen in, then take a screenshot and share on social and tag me @businessstraightup - tell me your biggest takeaway!

Shownotes COMING SOON (Brooke is traveling!) at https://www.businessstraightup.com/077 I'm in New York City! This city is so inspiring and chaotic all at the same time, and I have some things that were on my heart that I wanted to share about business and collaborating with your clients. About saying YES to clients, even when it may not necessarily be 100% what you're used to doing all the time. About the cost in saying yes to clients, and the lines in doing so, finding the middle ground and really WOWING your clients with an exceptional experience. Plus, a funny story about a bakery in NYC and some travel adventures! ;)

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/076 Today's topic is one that doesn't necessarily affect me personally, but I know that so many of my students are introverts and have asked me questions specific to this! Marketing for introverts is something that comes up quite a bit when I'm doing videos or mentoring sessions. While I do have some introverted tendencies, I would typically consider myself to be an extrovert. Being around people feels natural to me, unless they're relying on small talk, in which case I will go and hide. I have seen a tendency to lean towards a stereotype when it comes to introvert and extrovert though, and one of my coaches helped me clarify: this classification of someone's personality is based on how they RECHARGE. If you've had a really rough day, and you just need to recharge some energy and refresh yourself, do you prefer to be alone, or with others? Introverts will retreat into themselves after a hard day, that is how they recharge. Being an introvert doesn't necessarily mean that someone is SHY though. In this episode we are going to talk all about marketing for introverts but ultimately it always comes down to marketing in a way that feels good for YOU. Because that's what being in business is, right - you're the boss, you make the rules. You get to choose the strategies that work best for you and your business, and when you do that, marketing for introverts AND extroverts doesn't have to be overwhelming or draining. I can't wait for you to hear more!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/075 Facebook and Instagram went down, the news is CHAOS, right? What if you ONLY had Facebook for your business? What if Instagram is the only way that you can connect with your people? You would be pretty upset with it being down for 7 hours on a Monday! In this episode we are going to talk about another option that you might want to explore - email marketing. WHY do you need email marketing, why do you need a backup at all, instead of relying solely on social media? You might be surprised at some of the statistics! Listen in, then let me know - what is YOUR backup in your marketing efforts, so that you can reach the people that want to work with you?

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/074 Are you ready for an episode that might make you... a little uncomfortable? In the BEST possible way, of course! Jenn Spivak is the CEO and Founder of #TEAMSPIVAK, and our conversation is FIRE. If you are a female business owner, you need to hear this episode. If you are a male business owner, you need to hear this episode. Basically, if you have a pulse and run a business - you need this episode! We break down Facebook ads for small business - because that is Jenn's zone of genius, but we also talk about what it means to have CONFIDENCE in business. Because I am not exaggerating when I say that can be LIFE CHANGING. We are going to break down being a WOMAN in business: what that really means and what it can look like, how Facebook ads for small business can be SUPER freakin' easy, and owning confidence in your own expertise and your business! Sounds awesome, right? I'm a little biased but... it is. Seriously, keep reading and listening!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/073 Hey there amazing entrepreneurs &  business owners - ready to talk about that elusive unicorn of work life balance? Quite frankly - this is something I really struggle with chatting about on the podcast because I feel like it is sexist to even ask women how they handle it all as a mom and business owner, when men are not asked the same question, but I know that so many of my students are trying to figure this out, so we are going to dive into it today! Andrea Maxim is a naturopathic doctor and Founder of the MAXIMized Practitioner Method helping health and wellness practitioners create a 6-figure business while having a life outside of the office. And if you're thinking of hitting that stop button - wait - because the amazing wisdom that she has to share is applicable for ANY business owner. Even if you don't have kids, chances are you have other things that are vying for your attention, whether you have other family members, friends, responsibilities, or even a day job, so we are going to look at the reality of really working on your dreams, even when you have other responsibilities too! Listen in as we talk about growing a business while trying to balance LIFE with working towards your biggest goals!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/072 How the heck can we diversify our income? As a service based business owner, it is something that I have been asked and considered myself as well as marketing for small businesses. I'm so excited for today's guest and the information that we have available today, because the struggle is REAL - am I right? I am super excited to be able to have this boss on my podcast today! Christina Scalera is an attorney and founder behind The Contract Shop - providing contract templates and legal paperwork for business owners without hiring an attorney. She now has an online course that teaches people how to take their service based businesses, and start selling digital products online. Marketing for small business owners can seem DAUNTING - so why add another thing to your never ending to-do list? Because having multiple streams of income is not only a smart move and how most millionaires get to where they're at financially, but in our current climate with the chaos around us - it is absolutely necessary. Having an online shop might seem kind of silly for a service based business owner, but think of some of the things that people ask you regularly for inside of your business, that you can be repurposing and selling online! Marketing for small business owners does NOT just mean social media or ads, you have so many options when it comes to sharing your business and your skills. Christina has a ton of ideas and has taken her online shop WAY past what she ever thought was possible, I can't wait for you to listen in on Christina's expertise!

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/071 Welcome back awesome business owners - I know I say this a lot, but I am truly excited to bring you today's episode! Today I have the honor to spend time with the ever amazing Rachel Brenke, who is multi-faceted entrepreneur who has created businesses from the ground-up that supports the life she wants to lead. And can I just tell you on a personal note, that Rachel's resources are AH-mazing, I always check her site first if there's a contract or something that I need! I have used her contracts with my team, with my clients, and with my students, they are solid and so easy to download and implement! So sidenote - if you need a template, check out Rachel's site HERE.   Back to the episode, right? So you pull out all the stops to grow your photography business or creative business, but is it possible that you might be missing something? I work with a lot of photographers and creative entrepreneurs that are primarily service based - like aestheticians, wedding professionals, even chocolatiers - and most of them are not brand new, but have a few years under their belts. They're starting to learn that maybe they can't do it all, all the time. I have heard SEVERAL of my students tell me that they don't really need a full contract, because they're not charging THAT much, and they're just not big enough to really need something legal in place.   Rachel and I talk about contracts. Legal requirements and things to think about. Niching down, how to grow your photography business or creative business, and website help - in short, this episode has a TON of valuable information!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/070 Welcome back to another episode of Business Straight Up! In today's episode, we are going to talk all about building a team and hiring tips for small business owners. SO IMPORTANT for building a business that is sustainable! Today's guest is Liz Goddard, and she runs Bosun and works with small business owners to scale quickly and safely, so that they set their business up for success & sustainability - even in times of crisis or recession. Now before you switch this episode off, thinking that it doesn't apply to you because you might be a more service based business, can I just tell you how much working with my team has been absolutely life changing for me in my business? I don't use those words lightly! Being able to work with a team who can help me with the day to day tasks is so crazy valuable, even when it seems overwhelming or like something that you can't quite afford just yet. So today we are going to talk all about outsourcing and getting the help you need when it comes to running your business. And without further ado, let's dive right in!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/069 Welcome back to the Business Straight Up podcast, the place to be if you want to be able to market your business and run it smarter, not harder, so you can actually make a living doing what you love! Welcome to episode 069! I've put this off because it wasn't perfect - something we're going to talk about in a few - but I gave up putting it off because done is better than perfect. Even if my voice is a little rough and my hair isn't dried yet - we're doing this! So where the heck have I been? Loaded question, I know. If you're in my Facebook group, which you can access at businessstraightup.com/community , you'll know that life has been a little crazy for me lately. In this episode I wanted to share where I've been and why the podcast had a little break, but even more importantly, I'm going to share 4 things I really want you to know when outside circumstances affect you and your business and you feel like freaking the EFF out. Scheduling your days as a CEO... when it all goes awry, what do you do? One of the best parts of running your own business is that you get to build your own schedule - which can be both a blessing and a curse. I've done episodes on this before, so if you want to hear more about creating your own schedule so that your business fits into your life, instead of your life fitting into your business, check out businessstraightup.com/043 and businessstraightup.com/044 for more details on how our schedule runs every day. Let's talk about 4 things you must know when it comes to running a creative business when things are NOT going as planned in your life or business!

Habits to grow your business are absolutely necessary for every successful business, however, this is not an easy task, especially with the turmoil and chaos that we're all seeing right now. In this episode, we're going to talk about thriving instead of just surviving, what does that actually look like? We are are going to talk about consistency and habits and integrity and commitment. All of these things that are crazy important for the success of your business. Today's guest is Erika Diaz Castro, who is an amazing business owner and podcaster. Erika loves helping female leaders bridge the gap between their personal and professional growth, so that they can break through those personal limitations that we all hear in our brains to create a life that they love. Before you press that play button,  I just want to share a note,  you ARE worth the life that you want. You deserve everything you desire, and you can HAVE it!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/067 Are you ready for a sneak peek? A secret look, the inside scoop? In today's episode, we are going to chat about creative business & photography website tips that you can implement to really embrace putting your website to WORK. Websites that convert will turn into one of the most valuable pieces of your business! The reality is that you can be the best photographer, artist, teacher or WHATEVER YOU DO in the world and still make nothing if you can't market yourself and your business. A huge part of that marketing strategy is your website. Websites that convert are very much possible and in this episode, we will be discussing effective photography website tips that you need to do ASAP to get the website of your dreams! So come join me in this episode as we discuss the valuable steps you can take to market your business through your website.

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/066 I am SUPER excited to have an amazing guest today! Allie Bjerk is a visibility strategist, coach and consultant that has helped hundreds of business owners create visibility strategies and marketing plans to grow their business to be super profitable. I am personally one of her students, and while I haven't had the time to completely finish her Tiny Offers course, I can attest to the knowledge and drive that is behind this powerhouse coach, and I'm excited to have her as a guest today! In today's episode, we talk about the fears that you may be facing when it comes to really showing up in your business and marketing and your messaging and achieving consistency. Expanding your audience can be a challenge for ANY small business owner, and Allie is a rockstar when it comes to marketing and growing. We are going to talk about growth. Expanding your audience and offerings to meet your clients where they're at. Goals - how to set them to be successful, and what it really means to invest in yourself.

Website Errors for Photographers & Small Businesses: What to Fix Part 2 {Ep 065} Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/065 A website is our business' home online, and is usually the customer's first point of contact before doing business with the company. This is your handshake to the world, and it makes me cringe every time I hear someone tell me that they don't love their website! In order for it to be in tip-top shape, we need to avoid the most common website errors that I see when I review small business websites. And y'all, I have seen a LOT of websites. I may or may not be a little old when it comes to the online world, just sayin'. If you did NOT hear the first episode that is part one of the top website mistakes, click here to listen to part 1 in this series. The first episode had 5 mistakes, this one will have the next 5 but really - the list that I made is over 25 items long. I see a lot of mistakes pretty consistently when I'm doing website critiques, and when I'm looking for people to work with, so this is part 2 of the grand list of what I see most. So, please press on the play button to get to the help that your website needs! Onto part 2!

Stories & Website Copy for Photographers & Creatives with Sarah Braud {Ep 064} Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/064 Creating a website copy for photographers may not be an easy feat but today's guest, the Sarah Braud is a story WIZARD. Well, what does that exactly mean? We will delve into that in this episode. If you're ready to ramp up your marketing strategy then please, join us because today, we talked about what goes into your marketing, what to say in your marketing, how to know what to include in your marketing. How do you even find out what people want to hear and what resonates with them? How do you get people to actually listen in and when you only have a very limited space? How do you know what to fit when it comes to one liners. headliners are headlines, taglines, all the things? Thank you for pressing play, and including me in your day just a little bit. I'm sure you'll enjoy the episode!

Part 2 - Lessons Learned from the Chaos of 2020 {Ep 063} Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/063 Here we go, welcoming March 2021, with part two of the lessons that I learned from the chaos that was 2020. So if you haven't heard part one, I want to invite you to listen to part one here. What a chaotic year that was, right? It was really hard to look back at 2020 and see the good, even though of course we know, there's good in everyday stuff. Overall, I didn't meet some of my goals and it just didn't feel like a year full of wins. But when I really started thinking about some of the things that we went through in 2020, and the challenges that we faced, and how we figured it out anyway, I actually ended up with a page filled with of all the wins from 2020. Even if they were small, it's important to celebrate those wins, and sometimes I have to remind myself of that as well. In celebrating those wins, I believe it's also important to share the thoughts and realizations that made me stronger while facing the chaos that we were all going through. I hope these will inspire you too!

Full shownotes: https://businessstraightup.com/062 Facebook ads for photographers and social media marketing, in general, can be intimidating and overwhelming. With all the updates and working pieces involved to get this going, it is hard to keep up. But today’s guest, Rita Barry is a digital marketing powerhouse and a brilliant businesswoman who has shared a lot of strategies when it comes to measuring the metrics in your business that are most important. In this episode, we are going to talk about how you can harness the power of social advertising. We're also going to chat about metrics like what the heck are we measuring? What the heck are we looking for when it comes to growth? What does that even look like? Are we looking at traffic? Are we looking at clicks? Are we looking at views? What do we need to measure when it comes to really know if all of this effort that we're putting into things is actually working? Like is it worth it? How do we know? All of these and more will be discussed in this episode. So let’s go on over and dive into social ads and metrics and all the things you need to know about social media marketing.

Full shownotes: https://businessstraightup.com/061 Lessons Learned from 2020 - Part 1 {Ep 061} I was joking in my Facebook group that I feel like 2020 should be a verb now, right? When you had a plan for the beginning of 2020, and it didn't work out the way that you wanted it to. We're gonna say it was 2020'd. Seems about right! All kidding aside, let's all give ourselves a pat on the back for winning despite the challenges that were brought upon us. And so, in this episode, I wanted to share with you the things that I learned, the things that I reflected on, and the things that I have been journaling on throughout last year. Lessons that have helped me overcome the giant hurdle that was 2020. I hope you'll find it useful and inspiring enough to push you towards taking small steps towards your goal.

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/060 Sales - although an integral part of a business can be intimidating for most as it is often considered a complex and difficult process. But it doesn't have to be and today's guest, Debora Jones has shared a lot of insightful sales tips for business owners like yourself. No matter what business you run, sales are absolutely necessary, and I know that for me, photography sales is something that I teach and share with my students often! In this episode we are going to discuss effective ways to overcome your fear so you can finally apply this valuable skill to your business. Debora is a strategic executive & business owner with expertise in driving revenue, building resonating services, market engagement, customer management and operations. And if you heard that and just kind of checked out - don't press STOP! Revenue, services, engagement and operations are something that EVERY business needs, not just in the corporate world, they just look different when it comes to smaller businesses, so listen in!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/059 As a creative, showing our work is a huge part of what we do online, because that's our art, right? That's what we do. That's what we sell. But so many of us just kind of slap up a social media account, have really no idea how to use it strategically. This is why I am excited for you to meet today's guest. She is a social media Rockstar and educator, as well as a strategist when it comes to Instagram for photographers and creatives. Karen Rich went from being a media advertising executive, an ad agency principal, to running her own business helping people harness the power of social media. So many people think that I hate social media because I talk about email marketing so much, but really nothing could be further from the truth. I just want people to understand that we can't necessarily rely on just one marketing strategy. Instagram for photographers and creatives is just one part of an overall marketing strategy. There are so many pieces that go into successful marketing in this giant umbrella that we know of when it comes to marketing our businesses, and social media is an amazing opportunity. So join us as we discuss the various strategies you can use to set up a strategy when it comes to social media marketing!

Full shownotes at: https://www.businessstraightup.com/058 Welcome back, business owners to another episode of Business Straight Up, the podcast for creative business owners who want to actually make a living doing what they love. In this episode, I'm going to show you my linear calendar, and how I plan my year as a creative business owner who actually runs TWO businesses! While this is a sample business plan, it's also a plan for LIFE, because when you have kids and run 2 businesses, there is a lot to organize! I cannot take credit for this, the overall concept came from one of my mentors Todd Herman who is famous for the 90 day year. Some of you may remember that I work with 90-day increments and that is still true. I will discuss my strategic planning process and how I set aside a day each quarter to develop my business plan outline and really go through the details of the next 90 days to make sure it's in alignment with the current calendar. And if it's not, change it up! So many of us - myself included - are afraid to make a decision because we feel like it's final, but the reality is that when you run your own business, you make the rules! If 2020 taught us ANYTHING it's that we can always change things up, right? Ready to get some one-on-one help to grow your business BEYOND listening to podcasts for photographers or creative business owners? We can work past this sample business plan, or work on whatever you need help with. I'm here to help! We work together, in person or via Zoom, in an intimate setting to really sit down and look at your business. Click here for different options and more information!

Full Shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/057 Welcome back amazing business owners, to another episode of Business Straight Up, the podcast for creative business owners and photographers who want to actually make a living doing what they love. Today's episode hits home for me - because finances are definitely not a strength. But I'm learning, and work with some amazing people to help me walk through what I need to do. Today's guest is one of them! Tiffany Bastian is the owner of Bastian Accounting, working exclusively with photographers to help them gain control of their finances through accurate bookkeeping & taxes. She is also a mom, wife, dog mom and total Margarita Snob, and just a spectacular resource for business finances. We are going to talk about doing the hard things, even when we don't want to, having your OWN financial security just in case, and things to think about when it comes to running a successful business and the finances behind the scenes.

Full shownotes: http://www.businessstraightup.com/056 Welcome back business owners and entrepreneurs to another episode of Business Straight Up! Have I got a treat for you - today is the first time that I've EVER had a guest twice, and she is such an amazing resource of information, I couldn't wait to have her on again! Stacey Harris is the CEO of an agency called Uncommonly More. Their focus is on podcasters looking to use their show as a piece of their overall business marketing strategy. Stacey is brilliant in marketing, and every time I listen to her podcast I find myself going YESSSS over and over again. Then there are some guests that I feel like I can chat with for hours, and Stacey is one of them. In this candid conversation we talk about the craziness that was 2020, what that looked like for businesses, and what 2021 will bring us in the marketing and business world. What to focus on, what to think about, and things to consider. Join us in welcoming the new year with the awesome Stacey Harris!

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/055 Welcome back awesome business owners to another episode of Business Straight Up, the podcast for photographers and creative business owners who want to actually earn a living doing what they love! Today's episode is an update and a VERY fun announcement. New things coming in the new year, congratulations on getting through 2020, and some things to look out for! Instagram, YouTube, Book Club, Accountability and more - we are going to welcome the new year with a bang and talk about changes that we can ALL make in the new year to fully embrace this fresh start. Some links mentioned in the show: Mentoring is now available: http://www.businessstraightup.com/mentoring BSU Community: http://www.businessstraightup.com/community YouTube Channel and Episodes: http://www.businessstraightup.com/youtube

Full shownotes: https://www.businessstraightup.com/054 Welcome back to another episode of Business Straight Up - the podcast for photographers and creative business owners who want to actually make a living doing what they love! Today I'm switching things up a little, and going unscripted! So here it is - I'm just going to say it: you need to start implementing this TOP marketing strategy in 2021 and beyond. In this episode we are going to dive into 5 reasons WHY! Email marketing is one of my top marketing strategies that I have used to bring my boudoir business to multiple six figures, and if you are not using this in your business, you are missing out on a HUGE opportunity. Listen in to find out WHY it's important, and how to start! Register for the upcoming masterclass on email marketing: http://www.inboxtobooked.com

Full shownotes: http://www.businessstraightup.com/053 Email marketing for creatives & artists is something that is SO underused, often out of fear. In today's episode of Business Straight Up, we are going to dive into moving PAST the fear to really embrace marketing and showing off what you do, proudly, so that people can hire you and pay you! Megan Auman is an artist and metalsmith who runs a very successful business selling her work, and knows how scary it can be to really step into marketing and putting yourself out there. She also knows how IMPORTANT it is, and will share how she got past the fear. Listen in!

Full shownotes: http://www.businessstraightup.com/052 Welcome to another episode of Business Straight Up, Happy Black Friday! LISTEN TO THIS before shopping for your business for Black Friday - no, really. Today we are going to talk about my top 5 purchases for your business when it comes to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Do you really NEED that piece of gear? What would be an awesome choice that will truly be an investment? What will help you feel less stressed or stretched thin throughout the year? We are going to talk all about Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, and how to know if something will really be a good fit in your business!

Full shownotes: http://www.businessstraightup.com/051 CONTENT - you may think that it's just about what you do, right? WRONG! In this episode of Business Straight Up, we are going to talk about 10 content ideas for email marketing, blog posts and social media that you may not think really matter. Content can help you build the KLT factor - know, like and trust - and will keep you top of mind when someone needs what you specialize in. Let's dive in and get you some content ideas!

Full shownotes here: https://www.businessstraightup.com/050 HOORAY it's episode 50 y'all! Welcome to Business Straight Up - the podcast for photographers and creatives who want to actually make a living doing what they love. I have skipped a couple of episodes, because... well because life. And the election. And heavy hearts trying to wade through all of the vitriol. I wanted episode 50 to be a milestone, not something clouded by decisions to be made elsewhere, so I waited, and I'm really, really glad I did. In this episode we are going to go into 3 things you MUST know about marketing. And dare I say - not just KNOW about marketing, but really embrace in your heart when it comes to your business. Because business means two things - leads and sales - and marketing is what can reach out to someone who might be a lead, so that you can offer them the service that you provide, so that they can exchange value (money) for what you do. That's kind of just the bottom line in marketing and sales, and there are a few things to know that will really break it down, so that we can let go of the slimy stories that we sometimes hold onto that don't serve us! Listen in, and let me know what YOU are going to let go of moving forward at https://www.businessstraightup.com/community If you want to be on the waitlist and get in on the free email marketing masterclass, head to http://www.inboxtobooked.com - it opens in December for a limited time!