Create Your Own Destiny Podcast

We're bringing back one of our most-loved episodes: Using Color Psychology in Your Branding. If you missed it the first time—or just need a refresher—this conversation is packed with insightful tips on how color impacts your brand's identity, audience perception, and overall vibe. It's just as relevant today as when it first aired, and we think you'll get just as much value out of it the second time around. 

In this episode, Kristin discusses essential elements for creating a website that effectively converts visitors into customers. She emphasizes the importance of user experience, compelling website copy, clear calls to action, and the integration of email marketing to nurture relationships with potential clients.   Takeaways User experience is crucial for keeping visitors engaged. Mobile optimization is essential for modern websites. Website copy should speak directly to your ideal client. Clear calls to action guide users on what to do next. Offer freebies to encourage email list sign-ups.

We're bringing back one of our most-loved episodes — and for good reason! Whether you're rebranding, updating your website, or just ready to refresh your visual identity, a brand photoshoot is one of the best investments you can make in your business. In this episode, I'm diving into everything you need to know to plan and get the most out of your shoot — especially if you're a personal brand or online business owner. This content is just as relevant today as when it first aired, and it's packed with practical tips that I've used time and time again for both Girlboss Designer (my former business name, now In Flow Design Co.) and the Kristin Richards brand. From choosing your outfits to prepping props and working with your photographer, these steps will help you show up confidently and walk away with a photo library that actually works for your business. Ready? Let's get into it.

As a service-based business owner, staying connected with your audience is key to building strong, long-lasting relationships. But what if there was a way to keep the conversation going with your clients—even when you're not around?   That's where email automation comes in.   Email marketing automation is a game-changer for businesses of all kinds. Whether you're a coach, a consultant, or a travel professional, automating your email marketing can help you nurture leads, build trust, and ultimately grow your business—all on autopilot.   Let's dive into what email automation is, how it can benefit you, and how it helps create real connections with your audience over time.

If you've ever considered working with us on your website or even tackled a DIY website project yourself, chances are you've had some pressing questions about the process.   After years of consultation calls, I've noticed certain questions pop up time and time again. So, in this post, I'm breaking down some of the most frequently asked questions about websites, templates, and our process at In Flow Design Co.   Grab a coffee, and let's dive in!

This week, Kristin discusses essential time-saving systems for service-based businesses, emphasizing the importance of automation and efficiency. She shares her experiences in creating workflows, email templates, and project management systems that streamline operations and enhance professionalism. The conversation covers various systems, including automated inquiry processes, ready-made email templates, project workflows, and content creation strategies, all aimed at saving time and energy while improving client interactions and business growth!

In this episode of the Align & Amplify podcast, host Kristin Richards introduces her design team member Madison, discussing the evolution of In Flow Design Co. from a solopreneur venture to a collaborative team. They explore the importance of team dynamics, the journey of hiring and working with designers, and the balance between motherhood and running a business. Madison shares her background in design and how her role has evolved within the company, emphasizing the collaborative nature of their work and the benefits of having a dedicated team.  

Today, we're bringing back an episode all about what to consider when hiring a website designer. Whether you're launching a new site or refreshing your brand, finding the right designer is key. In this episode, I'm sharing essential strategies and mindset shifts for creative entrepreneurs looking to grow their online businesses. It's so important to align your business practices with your personal values—especially when hiring a web designer. I cover key considerations like finding a designer whose style resonates with you, understanding the role of marketing knowledge, managing project timelines, and why website copy is such a crucial part of the design process. I'll also share insights on how to prepare for a successful collaboration with a designer and the importance of planning ahead to avoid last-minute stress. Enjoy this re-release, and let's dive in!

In this episode, Kristin shares her personal journey of home renovations after purchasing a new house. She discusses the challenges and joys of updating their home, the decisions made regarding renovations, and the lessons learned along the way. Kristin also outlines future plans for further improvements, emphasizing the importance of patience and strategic planning in both home and business endeavors. She emphasizes the importance of hiring professionals for certain tasks, reflects on her color choices, and shares insights on creating a comfortable atmosphere in her home. Kristin also highlights the significance of understanding the long-term plans for a property, especially when it comes to investment properties.

When you run a branding and website design service-based business, one of the biggest decisions you'll face is whether to go it alone as a solopreneur or build a team to support you. Both paths have their own unique challenges and rewards, and the right choice ultimately depends on your goals, resources, and personal preferences. In this episode, I'm diving into the realities of both options, sharing my own experiences, and helping you navigate this pivotal decision. Solopreneur Life Full control and all profits stay with you. But, you're wearing all the hats, which can lead to burnout. Building a Team Allows scalability and time freedom to focus on what you love. Comes with added costs and responsibilities like payroll and HR.  

In this episode, Kristin discusses the importance of a strong online presence for travel professionals, emphasizing the need for an effective website that attracts and converts visitors into clients. She introduces her upcoming free webinar, 'Attract and Convert,' which aims to provide actionable strategies for enhancing travel brands and maximizing website effectiveness. Kristin highlights key topics such as captivating website design, strategic marketing, and the power of email marketing, encouraging listeners to take action and join the webinar for valuable insights. Save your seat here - https://travel.inflowdesignco.com/websitetraining

In this episode, Kristin Richards discusses the importance of aligning your mindset and business goals with your true desires. She emphasizes the need to redefine goals beyond financial metrics, focusing instead on the feelings and experiences that come with achieving those goals. Kristin shares her personal journey of visualizing her future self and making decisions based on that vision, encouraging listeners to tap into their own future selves to create a more fulfilling life. The episode concludes with an invitation to experiment with goal setting and to embrace the journey without being tied to strict timelines.

In today's episode, we're stepping behind the scenes for a personal look at planning for 2025—balancing life as a business owner and a growing family, scaling the product side of the business, and embracing flexibility while staying focused on big-picture goals. Balancing personal and professional priorities with simplified business operations during maternity leave for baby number two. Growing the scalable product side of the business through enhanced marketing, funnels, and integrating paid ads. Prioritizing profitability and refining financial strategies, including optimizing profit margins. Increasing brand visibility through podcast interviews, press features, and paid ads. Planning for flexible childcare arrangements and a significant family trip to Australia in late 2025. Emphasizing execution over ideas, with a focus on structured growth and time management.

Today, we're diving into a topic that can feel both exciting and a little intimidating for many online service providers: raising your rates! If you're a travel advisor, designer, or any kind of service-based entrepreneur, you've probably wondered at some point whether it's time to increase your prices – and you also may be wondering when exactly do you do this and how. In this episode, we'll talk about the signs that it might be time to adjust your rates, why pricing is more than just a number, and how to handle the change in a way that feels good for both you and your clients. We'll also share some tips on shifting your mindset around pricing, as well as practical steps you can take to make the transition as smooth as possible. So, if you're ready to attract higher-quality clients, reflect the value you bring to the table, and take your business to the next level, then this episode is for you. Let's dive in!

You've probably heard it before: “No one reads anymore.” But here's the truth: people DO still read — just not boring, cluttered copy that doesn't speak to them.   In this week's podcast episode, I'm busting the myth that website messaging doesn't matter. In fact, your website copy is one of the most powerful tools you have to connect with your audience, showcase your expertise, and inspire action.   Here's a sneak peek of what I cover in the episode: Why people still read (and what makes them stop). The crucial role headlines play in grabbing attention. How to structure your copy to engage skimmers and readers alike. The secret sauce to making your brand messaging irresistible. If you're a service-based business owner — whether you're a travel advisor, designer, coach, or beyond — this episode will help you rethink how you approach your website copy and give you actionable tips to make it work harder for your business.

In this episode, I'm sharing an honest and personal look at what it's like preparing for maternity leave as a business owner—this time with baby number two on the way! I talk about the differences between my first and second pregnancies, how my business has changed over the last three years, and the steps I'm taking to ensure everything runs smoothly while I take some time off. From building a stronger team and refining systems to balancing the emotions of raising two boys, I'm taking you behind the scenes of what this season looks like for me. Whether you're a fellow entrepreneur navigating similar waters or just curious about how I'm making it all work, this episode is a heartfelt and raw conversation about life, business, and family. Let's dive in!  

Today, we're diving into a big question that so many business owners face: Does your brand need a refresh, or is it time for a full rebrand?  If you're feeling like your brand's vibe doesn't quite match where your business is headed—or maybe it's just not connecting with your ideal clients anymore—this episode is for you.  We're going to break down what a refresh looks like versus a full rebrand, how to know which one is right for your business, and tips for making the transition smooth. Let's get into it!Refresh or Rebrand? How to Know Which Branding Move is Right for Your Business

In this episode, Kristin discusses the concept of niching down in business, weighing the benefits and downsides of both broad and specific niches. She explores when it might be advantageous to remain broad, especially for newcomers, and when to specialize for deeper market understanding and authority. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding one's business goals and client needs, and how these can evolve over time.

Does your website really matter if your business is already (or is predicted to be) mostly based on referrals?   I hear this every now and then from clients in our design business. Mainly from more seasoned professionals who have built a solid client base for themselves, but also from those new to the industry who predict this is where the majority of their clients will come from.   Let's cut to the chase - YES, you do need a modern website in today's world EVEN IF your business is mostly based on referrals.   But why? If people are naturally spreading the word organically through referrals, why would the website even matter?   The reality is - even if someone learns about your company through a referral, most often they will do a little homework and look you up before working with you.   It's so normal these days to want to check someone out online before contacting them. I even have clients tell me their past clients or people in their network WANT to refer them, and are asking them for their website to do so. They're then anxious to either get someone up (if they have nothing) or redo their outdated one.   Your website is basically like your digital business card and online storefront to the world.

Running a business according to your values means that every aspect of your company —its strategy, decision-making, operations, and culture—is aligned with the core principles and beliefs that you as a person, and as company, stand for.   These values act as the foundation for how the company conducts itself both internally and externally.   Here are a few examples of WHY having a value-based company matters:   1. It Guides Decision-Making 2. Builds Trust with Customers and Team Members 3. Enhances Company Culture 4. Attracts Like-Minded Talent 5. Creates Brand Differentiation 6. Fosters Long-Term Success 7. Strengthens Accountability and Integrity 8. Supports Consistency   Sooo, this is all great to know I'm sure - but HOW exactly do you go about this?! I'm going to walk you through our company's values and how that plays out in the way everything runs and operates.   First things first in this process though - is to decide the values you want to bring to your business.   Seems like an overly obvious one, but you'd be surprised how many people never bother to create these. And if you don't have any values you're basing your business on, how can you make decisions and build a culture along the way according to them?

In this episode, Kristin explores the often underrated power of intuition in both business and personal life. She emphasizes that intuition is a free resource available to everyone, which can guide decision-making and help individuals align with their true selves. Kristin shares personal anecdotes and practical tips on how to tap into one's intuition, including understanding personal intuitive styles and creating space for reflection. The conversation highlights the importance of trusting one's inner guidance to navigate life's complexities and make empowered choices.

This is some thing I hear once in a while on consultation calls when I'm talking to a potential clients about our services. All of our website services at In Flow Design Co. utilize our website templates, and people want to know - will it look like everyone else's?     While they're open to the idea of using a template, they want to make sure they are standing out and not just blending it looking like everyone else in their industry.     The only way your website template is going to look just like someone else's who has the same template is if you: Have very similar branding (brand colors, brand fonts, logo etc) Use your brand colors the same way on the template (how you use color can dramatically change the vibe) Use similar images throughout the website Have a similar tone of voice for your messaging     Even if all of the above happened to occur by chance (not very common) - who would ever know or notice?     We are often in our own little industry bubbles in business. We're exposed to so many others in our industry doing what we're doing through our networks and social media delivering us more of those kind of accounts.     But remember, your ideal client is NOT in your same world most likely! They're not exposed to all of your colleagues or all of the other people in your industry like you are.     And so what are the chances they happened to come across someone else's website that HAPPENED to be using the same template, and HAPPENED to have really similar branding? Slim chance.     If you're still itching to ensure that your website stands out, here are a few tips on how to make a website template more unique to you and your brand.

In today's episode, we're focusing on a key aspect of your brand: visual branding. While branding encompasses much more than just visuals - think messaging, customer experience, and the way people talk about your company, this episode narrows in on the visual side. We'll explore how the look and feel of your brand can impact your business and identify common mistakes to avoid when it comes to your brand's visual identity. If you're ready to refine your brand's presence, this one's for you!

In the early stages of running our business we tend to take on pretty much any client coming our way. We're excited to be getting clients, making money, and gaining experience after going out on a limb to launch a business of our own.   THEN - we may find ourselves being a little more discerning about who you take on as a client.   You may have narrowed down your niche further after discovering what you really want your focus to be. You may have noticed patterns in certain types of clients who you don't enjoy working with as much. You may have discovered a type of client you LOVE working with and want more of! You may have started to fill up your schedule and just don't have the open availability you used to have. You may not be feeling quite as "desperate", for lack of a better word, to book just anyone (or tolerate working with just anyone!)   This is when the time comes for you to consider passing on a client who is not the right fit - and sending them elsewhere.   In this episode, I want to walk you through a few scenarios where you may want to consider doing just that - turning down clients.   I personally have experiences ALL of these in my years in business and am here to offer some advice and guidance as you navigate these kind of decisions in the future.   In all of these cases, there may be times when you make an exception and still decide to take that client on - which is totally fine! As long as it feels right and in integrity for you - and doesn't feel like you're committing out of pressure or obligation. Those types of business partnerships rarely go well.

Having a user-friendly website is crucial because it directly impacts how visitors perceive and interact with your site.   When a website is easy to use, visitors are more likely to stay longer, explore more pages, and complete desired actions such as making a purchase or signing up for a newsletter.   A user-friendly website enhances the overall user experience, making it enjoyable and efficient for visitors to find the information they need.   Being "user friendly" means that your website is intuitive, accessible, and efficient. Here are some key aspects: In this episode, Kristin discusses how to make your website more user-friendly. She provides tips on streamlining pages and navigation, having clear messaging and call-to-actions, ensuring a mobile-friendly design, and using legible fonts and color layering.  Key Takeaways: Streamline your website's pages and navigation to avoid confusion and help visitors find what they need. Ensure clear messaging and call-to-actions to guide visitors and encourage them to take desired actions. Make sure your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for a pleasant user experience on mobile devices. Choose legible fonts and use color layering with enough contrast to ensure readability. Interested in improving the user experience of your website? Visit https://inflowdesignco.com/ to learn more about our design services and to shop our website templates!

Ever take a break from marketing and social media for your business and DREAD starting to post again? You may wonder, what do I even say... what will people think... am I irrelevant now?! No matter if you've been MIA for a week, a few weeks, or a few months - it can feel so much harder to get back into it when you've had a break! I am going through this exact situation right now and in this episode I take you through the behind the scenes of WHY I've been MIA (the personal side of things!) + offer you some helpful tips and mindset shifts to help you kickstart your marketing again with less resistance.

In this episode, Kristin discusses her go-to manifestation tools. She skips the basics of manifestation and dives right into the tools she personally uses. Her favorite tools include visualization, hypnosis, affirmations, belief shifting, and awareness. Visualization involves visualizing and experiencing having your manifestation, which helps familiarize your mind and body with the desired outcome. Hypnosis calms the mind and brain waves to a theta level, making the subconscious mind more receptive to suggestions. Affirmations, particularly I am statements, help shape your identity and beliefs. Belief shifting involves releasing unwanted beliefs and installing desired beliefs that align with your manifestation. Finally, awareness is crucial in recognizing and shifting thoughts, assumptions, and reactions that may hinder manifestation.    

In this episode, Kristin discusses the quickest and easiest blog post ideas. She highlights three main topics: client results, using existing social media content, and answering common FAQs. Sharing client results adds credibility to your business and showcases examples of your work. Repurposing social media content eliminates the need to come up with new ideas. Answering FAQs provides valuable content that your audience is already interested in. Kristin also mentions her blogging blueprint course, which helps create a system for easy and effective blog content creation.

If you've ever wondered why you may want to use email marketing for your business, what the actual purpose of it is, and if it's worth it... this episode is for you! Kristin discusses the basics of email marketing and why it is important for businesses. She explains that email marketing allows for direct communication with clients and customers, helps build relationships, boosts sales, increases brand awareness, provides measurable results, allows for targeted marketing, saves time through automation, encourages engagement, and builds credibility. She announces the upcoming launch of an email marketing course for those who want help in this area.

In this episode, Kristin discusses the importance of creating balance in life and enjoying the process. She shares some behind-the-scenes updates about her design business and the process of buying a new house. Kristin explores the reasons why people crave more balance, such as feeling tired, overworked, and under-supported. She also delves into the underlying limiting beliefs that can perpetuate the lack of balance, including people-pleasing tendencies, fear of rejection and criticism, and the belief that success requires constant hustle. Kristin emphasizes the need to address these beliefs in order to create lasting balance and enjoy life more. In this conversation, Kristin discusses the importance of identifying and challenging underlying beliefs that may be preventing us from achieving balance and enjoying our lives. She emphasizes the need to be specific about what we want and to take action towards creating change. Kristin provides practical tips for implementing immediate changes, such as shifting schedules and asking for help, as well as ongoing changes, such as developing awareness and reprogramming limiting beliefs. She encourages listeners to make these changes part of their routines to create lasting transformation.

In this episode, Kristin discusses the purpose and benefits of having a blog on your business's website. She explains that a blog helps enhance your website's SEO by providing relevant content and keywords. It also increases website visitors and exposes them to your services and offers. Additionally, a blog helps build authority and credibility by allowing you to share your knowledge and expertise. Kristin emphasizes the importance of keeping your main pages streamlined and using the blog to expand on content without cluttering the website. She also mentions that she will be relaunching her blogging blueprint course.   Get on the waitlist for the new and improved Blogging Blueprint Course:  https://inflowdesignco.com/blogging-course-waitlist 

We hear all the time to "trust the process" and "have faith" when it comes to creating your goals and going through changes in life. But I have a more useful approach to consider... Our subconscious mind LOVES facts and loves to base its beliefs on what's already happened. So when we are focused on trust and faith - it doesn't feel as tangible to your subconscous mind and therefore not as solid a belief.  When we focus on the actual evidence it's all working out for us - our subconscious mind really gets on board with believing that.  In this episode I give you real examples of how to utilize this approach in your life and business - and how you can shift you mindset to create change and your goals faster.

Do you REALLY need to have a website - can't you just use social media to run and grow your business?   In this episode, Kristin discusses the importance of having a website for your business, even if you are using social media. She highlights the benefits of a website, such as increased credibility, the ability to guide visitors through your brand and offerings, and the opportunity to grow your email list.   Kristin also clarifies that a website serves as a home base for your online presence, linking to other platforms and functionalities.   Starting with social media is recommended, but eventually, having a website becomes essential for a more professional and comprehensive online presence.   Reasons you want to have a website vs. just relying on social media:   #1- Having a website increases your credibility and makes your business more legitimate online   #2- You're able to guide someone through who you are, your values, your services, all your offers, etc in a thoughtfully crafted manner - vs. all the random posts on social media   #3- Grow your email list with opt-ins   #4- Your home for everything on the web

In this impromptu episode, Kristin shares her approach to getting into the groove with work when feeling low energy. She discusses the importance of choosing an approach that feels aligned to you and highlights the difference between a masculine and feminine energy approach. Kristin emphasizes the significance of putting your own state and energy first before tasks, as it leads to better outcomes. She also provides tips on how to create a positive environment and mindset for tasks you don't feel like doing.

I am changing the Girlboss Designer name. EEEK! And I want to walk you through all of this in the latest podcast episode.  I'll go over why I'm changing it, why I'm changing it NOW, what the new name is, just the whole kind of behind the scenes of this name change and how it's going to play out.

In this episode, Kristin shares her experience of living back in the US for the past nine months -after six years of being in Australia. She discusses the positive aspects of living in a nice, safe and convenient suburb of Chicago, being closer to family, friends and team, and having a settled routine for her son Jack. However, she also talks about missing the beach and the challenges of flying and traveling so often. Overall, she reflects on the ups and downs of her transition and looks forward to what the future holds.    

In this episode, Kristin shares three recent wins in her business and her biggest takeaways from each that you can apply to your journey.     The first win is a 40% increase in business revenue in 2023 compared to 2022. The second win is the transition of a team member from part-time to a full-time salaried employee with benefits. The third win is the purchase of one of Girlboss Designer's website templates by Manifestation Babe for their latest venture - Manifested Adventures.     The main takeaways from these wins are the importance of focusing on money management, not basing the future on the past, small steps forward can lead to big accomplishments that feel normal, and realizing that people you admire are in closer proximity than you think.

The time has finally come when you're ready to share your brand new website to the world, how exciting!     Maybe you're a brand new business or you've redone an existing website. Either way, it's so much fun to show off your new website to everyone.     I want to give you some tips to help maximize this, so you can get the most out of this really exciting moment to increase your visibility and leads for your business.     I've broken this down into two parts.     One part will be talking about tips for maximizing your website launch for a brand new business. And then I also want to touch on if you're an existing business doing a relaunch of your brand or website, how to maximize it for you.     There are definitely a lot more tips for the brand new business because there's just a lot more going on here. Like it's a brand new business. You're revealing it for the first time.     Someone who's established, who's relaunching their website. They've already kind of been building that audience over time. People already know who they are. It's a little bit of a different situation, but I do want to touch on both. And we're going to start with the brand new business.     FOR A BRAND NEW BUSINESS   Begin building your social media and audience ahead of time vs waiting until the website is done Begin your email list ahead of time (add existing personal and professional contacts) Have a way to capture emails easily on the site when it goes live (freebie) - the launch will be the most high-traffic time Get your audience excited with a lead up & maybe even sneak peeks SHARE big time everywhere when you're ready! (email list, all socials, mailable card etc) Ask your friends and family members to share   FOR AN EXISTING BUSINESS DOING A RE-LAUNCH   Have a way to capture emails easily on the site when it goes live (freebie) - the launch will be the most high-traffic time Get your audience excited with a lead up & maybe even sneak peeks SHARE big time everywhere when you're ready! (email list, all socials, mailable card etc) If you're changing your business name with this launch - start talking about the transition ahead of time

In this episode, Kristin shares a major client success story (a 6-figure client booking!) and highlights the key takeaways we can all learn from this big win. She emphasizes that a website is like a storefront and digital business card in the online space, and even if most of your business comes from referrals, people will still look you up. Kristin also discusses the benefits of using website templates instead of custom websites, explaining that templates can be customized to fit your branding and messaging. She then outlines key elements of a successful website, including clear messaging, legibility, and a professional vibe. Finally, Kristin reminds listeners that building a business takes time and that each client can contribute to its growth.

During Christmas time in the midst of a conversation with a family friend, I mentioned how I wanted to work the same amount of time I work now and make WAYYYY more money.    She laughed a little like as if wanting to say "well, wouldn't that be nice!". Her reaction to this was like I was a bit crazy and it's not possible.    Then I gave her real life examples of people creating exponential quantum leap type growth in their business. Women I follow in the online space tripling their business's income in a year. Women making multi-millions of dollars working part time hours with their kids.    I could see her mind starting to open up and shift a little bit more.    It can be easy sometimes to buy into other people's opinions about what we want to with our life.    I'm sure you've been there at some point where you open up to someone about an idea or goal you have: whether it be creating a new business, switching careers, making more money, working while raising kids, travel dreams, lifestyle dreams.   And their reaction or comments about what you've shared creates a bit of doubt or deflation in you.   When this happens we can sometimes second guess ourselves, lower our dreams and expectations, or feel a bit frozen in indecision.    Sometimes people sit for so long on big ideas or changes because of the doubt that was instilled in them from others.    First I want you to remember - no one else can actually do this to you. No one else actually has the power to make you doubt yourself, to feel deflated, or to make you second guess yourself.   We are in control of taking outside information in (other people's opinions) - and deciding what we want to do this that information.   And so in this episode I want to share a few useful perspectives on how we can approach receiving opinions from other people about our goals and dreams that are not in our favor.

Welcome to a brand new year! It's that time when many set new intentions/goals for the year, and get excited about what's to come. As I've been going through my own goal setting and future visioning process for this year, I've felt called to share more of how I'm approaching this with you all. The traditional way people approach setting their goals for the year would be to write down a list of what you want to achieve for the year (however long or short). This is typically a simple and to the point list of changes you'd like to make, and what you'd like for your life to look like in the future. Listen to the full episode to check out the tips for working with your unconscious mind with goal setting. ********************* If you want to learn more about how to actually implement this for yourself.... Join me for the Aligned Goal Activation Workshop! After going through my own goal activation process, I've been feeling pulled to share this with you in a very practical and actionable way! Here's what this workshop will look! DAY 1:  Chose your aligned goal(s) for this year DAY 2:  Write a detailed visualization of your goals incorporating subconscious language (using NLP - bringing in all 5 senses) DAY 3:  Create your Vision Board - templates for phone background, printable, & laptop background DAY 4:  Have a plan for what to do next moving forward Sign up for this LIVE workshop here: https://checkout.kristinrichards.co/aligned-goal-workshop-live/

We're about to close one year and open another, which is the perfect time to reflect back on everything that's happened over the past 365 days. In this episode I'm sharing my personal and professional reflections from 2023. My biggest moments, biggest lessons, what I'm most proud of, and what I envision going into 2024.

The phrase "acting as your future self" is used often in the personal development space and is a key part of manifesting our goals and dreams.   In manifestation "like attracts like" - so the more we show up as that future version of our self NOW, the faster we will see that dream show up in our reality.   Seems pretty simple, but I see a lot of misconception about this happening. And so as we are about to close one year and enter into a brand new year, with new goals and visions for our life, I thought it would be a great time to dive deeper into this.   First of all - when we say "like attracts like" - how this REALLY works with manifestation is your beliefs and self image (how you see yourself) attract situations with the same beliefs and vibration of that self image.   It's less about what you are DOING - and more about who you are BEING.   What are your beliefs? What are your attitudes toward things? What do you assume to be true? What are you emotions/thoughts/feelings about something? How do you see yourself?   You can be taking all the actions "acting as if" - but if the underlying belief systems don't match up with whatever it is you're manifesting - it will either not come, or when it does come you will subconsciously push it away.   This is when self sabotage starts to take place.   Someone beliefs don't match up to whatever it is they've received (money, success, peace, love, etc) - so even if they "want" that thing so badly - if their inner beliefs aren't aligned they will sabotage the situation. This may look like spending all the $ they've received, starting fights in a relationship, creating more chaos in their life, etc.   The first step here is to dive into your BELIEFS surrounding whatever your goal is - and then we can get into the "acting as if" actions part of the process.

Excited for this unique episode! It's my first time doing a travel-related podcast. Join me as I take you behind the scenes of our trip to Tamarindo, Costa Rica. This episode isn't your typical traveler's guide; I'm sharing my personal experience — where we stayed, what we did, and the restaurants we visited. Let's dive into the details that made this trip unforgettable.   Where We Stayed:   Tamarindo Diria  For more information, you can visit their website at https://www.tamarindodiria.com/   What We Did:   Surfing at Witch's Rock Surf Camp  For more details, you can explore their offerings at https://witchsrocksurfcamp.com/   Where We Ate: Patagonia - Argentinian Grill & Restaurant https://maps.app.goo.gl/rC4bW75MDqFPf1Py8 La Baula - Pizza https://maps.app.goo.gl/MDuMPNuk3ZD2kvsG9 Dragonfly Bar & Grill - Seafood, Sushi, Grill https://maps.app.goo.gl/TvZaabPSg93NnJjC7 Nari - Pizza https://maps.app.goo.gl/HtPAfJi72Lz5rmW46 La Oveja Surf House - Drinks https://maps.app.goo.gl/kBd9Bv8iSuy1nSyeA Pico Bistro - didn't go but looks cute (AC!) https://maps.app.goo.gl/JpTiNQ1mNY6UNnh69     Previous Trip to Costa Rica: Traveled with Under 30 Experiences Find out more at https://www.under30experiences.com/.

Excited for this unique episode! It's my first time doing a travel-related podcast. Join me as I take you behind the scenes of our trip to Tamarindo, Costa Rica. This episode isn't your typical traveler's guide; I'm sharing my personal experience — where we stayed, what we did, and the restaurants we visited. Let's dive into the details that made this trip unforgettable.   Where We Stayed:   Tamarindo Diria  For more information, you can visit their website at https://www.tamarindodiria.com/   What We Did:   Surfing at Witch's Rock Surf Camp  For more details, you can explore their offerings at https://witchsrocksurfcamp.com/   Where We Ate:   Patagonia - Argentinian Grill & Restaurant https://maps.app.goo.gl/rC4bW75MDqFPf1Py8 La Baula - Pizza https://maps.app.goo.gl/MDuMPNuk3ZD2kvsG9 Dragonfly Bar & Grill - Seafood, Sushi, Grill https://maps.app.goo.gl/TvZaabPSg93NnJjC7 Nari - Pizza https://maps.app.goo.gl/HtPAfJi72Lz5rmW46 La Oveja Surf House - Drinks https://maps.app.goo.gl/kBd9Bv8iSuy1nSyeA Pico Bistro - didn't go but looks cute (AC!) https://maps.app.goo.gl/JpTiNQ1mNY6UNnh69     Previous Trip to Costa Rica:   Traveled with Under 30 Experiences Find out more at https://www.under30experiences.com/.

#1: You can get started designing right away. - Most designers are booking a certain amount of time in advance, there is usually a waiting period to get on their calendar. - There is also prep work needed before being able to get started anyways, so this wait time comes in handy. - The prep work may include: brand design, copywriting, finalizing your programs or business concept, collecting materials, photoshoots.     #2: A designer provides the writing for the website for you. - This is a totally different skillset! It's like going to an apple tree expecting to pick apples AND oranges. - Unless the design agency has an in-house copywriter, the client is expected to provide the writing for their website. - You can choose to write this yourself, or hire a copywriter. - This is the biggest pieces of the prep work, BEFORE you begin designing, and why the wait period to get started is really helpful.     #3: You should wait until you have everything together to find a designer. - Because there typically is a waiting period to get on a designer's calendar, if you want until you have EVERYTHING ready to contact a designer - you are going to be waiting even longer to launch your website. - It's best to get in touch with a designer when you're in the earlier planning stages. - Having this conversation will also have you more easily prepare what's needed for the project.     #4: The designer handles everything and you can have almost no involvement. - It is 100% true that hiring a designer WILL save you tons of time/energy since they are doing a lot of the heavy lifting for you. - BUT - you are needed as an active participant in your project to create a successful result and launch. - Beyond the prep work period, once the project begins the clients is needed for revision feedback and any missing items needed to complete the project. - The biggest project staller will be a client who doesn't create the time to be present and involved in their project.     #5: Providing feedback when you don't like something is a "bad" thing - Our #1 goal is for you to LOVE your brand and website! - We are here to do whatever we can to help accomplish that, so we WANT to know what you honestly think - Revisions is part of the process - Sometimes things flow easily with minimal feedback, and other times it might take a little bit more to get to that desired end result - We want to better understand your taste, so we can make whatever adjustments we need to create your vision

Features are the specific characteristics or functionalities that a product or service offers. They're the details that describe what's included and what the thing can do. Benefits are the advantages you get from the product or service. Outcomes are what happens as a domino affect of the benefits of the product or service. Why is it important to identify this? People buy for the outcomes and benefits (emotional), and justify it with the features (logical) Features of Our Web design Service: - Restyle of one of our GBD Showit website templates - Design of all pages included in our templates (list out all pages) - Wordpress blog design & setup - Mobile-friendly responsive website - Photography sourcing & optimization - Connect email marketing opt-ins - Embed CRM Forms & Calendars - Pop up promoting your opt-in Benefits of Our Services: - Saves time, energy, stress and confusion - Their business looks amazing online - They're taken seriously in their industry and seen as a professional Outcomes of Our Services: - They're proud to show off their business to others - Feeling more confident - Attracting more potential clients as a result - Booking more clients and making more money

Imagine you're meeting your blind date for the first time. You haven't spoken to them before, seen them before - this is the first moment you're having any kind of interaction with them. Before you begin speaking, you take in their appearance.   Their face, their build, hair, clothes, how they carry themself, if they make eye contact, their small mannerisms as they approach you.   These first few quick moments are creating an immediate reaction in your body and how you interpret them.   You may feel yourself lean in more, perk up with interest, smile, get the warm tingleys because you are liking what you're seeing!!   You may on the other hand feel some hesitation, slightly cringe, doubt, draw back, feel some sort of level of disappointment.   Now as we know, looks aren't everything! You may find even if you weren't attracted to their appearance initially, their personality has changed that for you and you see them in a new light. They become more attractive to you overtime. But you needed to stick around long enough to allow that to develop.   Now, why am I telling you about dating when we're talking about high end brands here?!   First impressions matter, and they happen within seconds.   And in the online space, oftentimes people aren't sticking around longer to learn more about if they are less than impressed with that first impression. So we want to make those first seconds count.   If you want your brand to be perceived as a high-end brand (therefore attracting clients who are ready to invest at a higher price point for your offers), there are a few easy ways you can create that first impression.   Listen to the full episode to check them out! 

Recently I had the pleasure of experiencing first hand, an entire brand experience done right. This was outside the typical online space that we spend so much of our time in. And instead was with a massage company, The NOW Massage.   From start to finish I was obsessed with this company, I couldn't help but share.   And NO this is not a paid promo! It was just so fun to experience successful branding out in the real world, and how it made me feel as a result.   In this podcast episode I am going to walk you through the key branding areas I felt this company totally nailed. And then I'll tie each of these areas back to your own business.   These key branding areas we will look at are: Style & Aesthetic Ease of Customer Entry Enjoyable Experience & Great Results Deeper Mission, Values & Culture Customer Loyalty & Brand Awareness

Whether you've been rocking your online business for a while or are still in the daydream stage, I want to shed some light on 3 website lies you may have been believing up until now -  to make sure you're putting your time and money where it matters most with your biggest online asset. (and not getting lost in the endless “planning” stage!) Because if you're on your way to owning and running a successful online business (whether in travel, coaching, consulting… whatever your passion is) …  … I want you to stand out in your industry and attract your dream clients on repeat! Having a polished, professional and profitable website can be SO MUCH more accessible and easier than you may think. Get your game face on, ‘cause in this episode I'm going to bust through these beliefs: XX You should invest in a custom built website in order to stand out in your industry (um, nope) XX Having lots of inspirational and informational content on your website helps convert clients (BIG depends here…) XX Your website isn't that important with social media these days (just shut your mouth right there!)  

Over the past few months I've been in a slower phase personally in my business due to our big move and sorting out our childcare schedule. And while I haven't been outwardly producing a lot (though my team has been killing it on the design side!) - I've been really going inward and digesting so much.   Slowing down in life and busineess allows you to go deeper vs. going fast and spreading yourself wider. In the process of spreading ourself wider, if we don't have our roots in deep to begin with we could end up over worked, spread too thin, and burnt out.   Ive been reflecting on things like: What my company's values are and why we're here How we can better live our company values - which translates into What the future looks like for both Girlboss Designer & my coaching business In this episode I go into detail about all of the above and why I am so fired up about what's to come for the future of both companies (design business and coaching business)   One of the people in the online space I've really been diving into hard these past few months that I talk about in this episode is Andrea Crowder, she has a brand called the Unruley Entrepreneur. Her approach to business and her focus on working with your subconscious has really been resonated deeply with me and I've been soaking it all up!   Programs of Andrea Crowders's I've taken that I reference in this episode: Regulate Mantras that are Blocking Your Manifestations Daddy Energy No Doubt in the DMs $100k in a Day Masterclass The Pleasure Model (currently going through this one!)