Eat Blog Talk | Megan Porta

In episode 698, Eloise Jennes talks about how what felt like a massive failure on Instagram actually became the catalyst for clarity, growth, and deep alignment in her food blogging business. Elo is a plant-based food blogger, meal prep expert, and founder of Cooking With Elo, where she helps stressed-out professionals, overwhelmed parents, and health-conscious students make healthy plant-based eating way more doable and way less chaotic. With her Master's in food innovation and obsessive love for systems, checklists, and pantry organization, Elo helps you feel confident in the kitchen, even with tofu, tempeh, and beans on the menu. So if you've ever wished someone would just tell you what to cook, how to prep it, and when to eat it—she's your girl. In this episode, you'll learn how to reframe failure as a learning opportunity to refine your niche, improve your blog and discover a clear business path rooted in passion and purpose. Key points discussed include: - Failure isn't failure—it's unmet expectations: Eloise shares how she redefined her Instagram experiment as a learning opportunity, not a flop. - Hard work can still feel fruitless—until it pays off: Posting 100 blog posts and 100 Instagram reels in 100 days didn't go viral, but it laid a strong foundation for her business. - Systems matter: Eloise used Google Sheets smart chips and her love of organization to manage content creation efficiently. - Clarity comes from action: Pushing through the challenge helped Eloise realize her true niche had been there all along—plant-based meal prep. - You gain confidence through repetition: Creating content daily improved her storytelling, video editing, voiceovers, and technical workflow. - Burnout is real—listen to your body: She worked 14-15 hours a day, 7 days a week, and ended up with stress-induced gastritis, teaching her to build in sustainability. - Trust the process: Eloise held onto the belief that everything was leading somewhere, and it eventually unlocked new products, programs, and media opportunities. - Teaching is mastery: Shifting from “storyteller” to “teacher” allowed Eloise to embrace her strengths and lead her audience more effectively. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 668: The Growth Mindset Shift – How Failure Leads to Success with Donnie Lygonis Connect with Eloïse Jennes Website | Instagram

Here's a simple 5-step method I created to help stay calm, present, and grounded when you're facing uncertainty and bracing for the unknown. In this episode, I'm diving into a mindset strategy that helped me through a really intense week filled with anxiety and uncertainty. When life feels overwhelming and fear creeps in, it's so important to have a simple plan to stay grounded. I'll walk you through the exact five steps I used to calm my mind, stay present, and truly enjoy the moments that mattered most. If you ever find yourself stuck in a cycle of worry, these steps will help you find your way back to peace. Action Plan: 1 - Acknowledge your awareness: Notice when your mind is jumping ahead to worst-case scenarios — awareness gives you back your power. 2 - Set a clear intention: Decide to stay grounded and present, even when challenges are looming. 3 - Focus on your breath: Take three deep, intentional breaths to signal to your body that it's safe. 4 - Tune into your senses: Name three things you can see, hear, or feel to anchor yourself to the present moment. 5 - Redirect your thoughts: Practice gratitude, flip a negative "what if" into a positive one, and envision something you're excited about. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 696, Megan chats with Barbara Curry about how she launched a wildly successful second food blog that reached 100,000 monthly pageviews within months of starting. Barbara is the creator of Butter & Baggage and Easy Southern Desserts, where she shares her passion for approachable, home-cooked Southern recipes. She started Butter & Baggage in 2014, bringing decades of experience to help home cooks create delicious meals with confidence. In 2024, she launched Easy Southern Desserts to focus exclusively on indulgent, foolproof sweets inspired by Southern traditions. Through her blogs, she combines tested recipes with practical tips to make baking and cooking both stress-free and enjoyable. In this episode, you'll learn what it takes to start and grow a second blog while maintaining momentum with an existing one, including identifying a viable niche, gaining traffic and dividing your focus efficiently. Key points discussed include: - Identify a market gap before you begin: Barbara saw an untapped niche in Southern desserts and used her experience to fill it strategically. - Start with intention and strategy: From day one, she planned content, SEO, and marketing to get traffic fast without cannibalizing her first blog. - Leverage existing resources: She used her first blog's audience and email list to kick-start traffic and grow her second blog's email subscribers. - Be cautious with cross-linking: Barbara used no-follow links between blogs to stay in line with Google's link spam guidelines. - Focus on one platform at a time: She prioritized Pinterest over other social platforms to simplify her promotional efforts and increase traffic. - Utilize alternative traffic sources: Platforms like MSN, Flipboard, and Kit Creator Profiles brought early traffic boosts before Google rankings picked up. - Know when to outsource: Hiring help for writing, tech setup, Pinterest, and even cupcake decorating freed her to focus on what she does best. - Be realistic about the workload: Running two blogs is double the work—Barbara emphasizes the importance of efficiency, batching, and having a plan. Connect with Barbara Curry Website | Instagram

In episode 695, Jonathan Feniak walks us through the legal essentials every food blogger needs to confidently turn a blog into a full-time business while mitigating legal risks. Lead Attorney Jonathan Feniak is a driving force behind LLCAttorney.com with a mission to make quality legal guidance accessible to business owners and individuals across the United States. Specializing in asset protection, estate planning, and business formation, he provides practical solutions that empower clients to protect their assets and build strong legal foundations. In this episode, you'll learn the importance of setting up your blog as a business entity, how to protect your personal assets, and when should you get a trademark to protect your brand. Key points discussed include: - Why forming an LLC is smart for bloggers: Protects personal assets and establishes your blog as a legitimate business. - You can form an LLC affordably: Many bloggers can complete the process themselves without hiring a lawyer. - Don't mix personal and business finances: Keeping accounts separate is essential to maintain your legal protections. - Start with the right foundation: It's easier to build a solid business structure now than fix issues later. - Prepare for compliance challenges: What compliance challenges should entrepreneurs expect as they grow, and how can they prepare? - Trademarks protect your brand: Registering your blog's name adds an extra layer of security for your identity and content. - State-specific rules matter: Requirements for forming and maintaining an LLC vary by state—be sure to check yours. - You don't need to be perfect: Take small steps to gain clarity and protection; perfection isn't required to move forward. Connect with Jonathan Feniak Website | Instagram

Learn how to become more efficient and intentional by thoughtfully pairing two tasks together, without adding stress or hustle to your day. Today's episode is all about shifting your days with simple, intentional strategies. Instead of overwhelming yourself with frantic multitasking, I'm sharing easy ways to pair activities that naturally complement each other. These small changes have helped me be more productive, efficient, and energized without adding stress. I can't wait for you to try them and see how they transform your workflow too! Action Plan: 1 - Knock out admin work while walking on the treadmill: Use light movement to boost energy while getting through Slack messages, emails, or brainstorming. 2 - Connect with loved ones during outdoor walks: Reserve personal calls or voice messages for walk time to nurture relationships while getting fresh air and exercise. 3 - Learn while you do monotonous tasks: Listen to uplifting podcasts or audiobooks during chores like folding laundry or photo editing. 4 - Brainstorm creatively while cooking or cleaning: Use mindless tasks as prime time for content ideas and strategy sessions. 5 - Research trends while stretching or foam rolling: Pair body recovery time with quick social media trend research to spark new ideas. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 693, Megan chats to Morgan Peaceman about building strong systems that support both content creation and content maintenance for food bloggers. Morgan Peaceman has been blogging for the last 6 years, but only really went all in as of 2023. Her approach to food blogging and recipe development comes from her love of quick and easy family friendly recipes, with fresh, simple ingredients that makes all her recipes accessible for the most novice of cooks. In this episode, you'll learn how to create sustainable systems for updating and publishing blog content while avoiding burnout and staying organized as a food blogger. Key points discussed include: - Build systems that support sustainability: Morgan shares how she structured her blog workflow to stay consistent without burning out, including tracking and updating older content regularly. - Use tools that align with your needs: From KeySearch and RankIQ to the lesser-known but powerful Thruuu, Morgan walks us through her preferred keyword research and optimization tools. - Track updates in a color-coded system: A clear Google Sheets setup using red, yellow, and green helps Morgan manage what's been updated, what's in progress, and what needs attention. - Lean on your community: Morgan emphasizes how finding a group of fellow creators, even through DMs, has been a game changer for support and motivation. - Invest intentionally in your business: Every year, Morgan makes one significant investment in her business—whether that's a branding shoot, SEO conference, or hiring help for social media. - Make your blog user-friendly: She reminds us how crucial it is to optimize recipe cards and surface key details at the top of posts to align with real user behavior. - Give yourself permission to rest: True rest is essential for longevity, and Morgan stresses how ignoring rest leads to burnout and illness. - Adapt your investments to what you need most right now: Prioritize what feels most urgent for your growth this year and allow your next steps to evolve accordingly. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 259: Deliver Quality to Your Users by Updating Your Old Content with Kathy Berget Connect with Morgan Peaceman Website | Instagram

In episode 692, Megan interviews James Baldwin from Raptive about strategies to increase your ad revenue, optimize your website for better performance, and tackle evolving challenges in the food blogging space—including AI content theft and third-party cookie changes. James and his team of ad performance experts work to help creators make as much money as possible by analyzing network data, troubleshooting ad issues, and designing ad strategies for industry-leading RPMs. James lives is Fargo, North Dakota with his wife and two kids and farms on the occasional summer/fall weekend. In this episode, you'll learn how to boost your ad earnings, make sense of RPM fluctuations, and future-proof your content strategy in a shifting digital landscape. Key points discussed include: - RPM Variations: U.S.-based traffic consistently earns higher RPMs than international traffic. Understanding audience geography is key to revenue forecasting. - Smart Ad Placement: Positioning ads in high-visibility areas of your recipe posts—especially where readers linger—can lead to significant income increases. - Words That Hurt Revenue: Terms like “download,” “addicting,” and “irresistible” may trigger brand safety concerns and reduce monetization potential. - Third-Party Cookie Changes: Though the future is still unfolding, Raptive is developing tools to ensure personalized ads remain effective. - Content that Wins: Google favors clear, user-friendly content with intuitive recipe navigation. Quality and reader value matter more than ever. - Fighting AI Content Theft: Raptive is actively identifying and combating AI-driven content theft and working with platforms like Pinterest to block monetization of stolen material. - Building Real Engagement: Authenticity, reader interaction, and community building are key to standing out—and staying relevant. Connect with James Baldwin Website | Instagram

Learn how to transform everyday experiences into powerful gifts by shifting your perspective and embracing gratitude, seeing the world through a lens of appreciation that can fundamentally change your life. Lately, I've been on a journey of uncovering hidden gifts in the most unexpected places - from physical signals in my body to tough conversations and challenging moments. In this episode, I'm sharing some of those discoveries and how they've helped me shift my perspective. Instead of getting weighed down by difficulties, I'm learning to see the world through a lens of appreciation and possibility. Action Plan: 1 - Receive Words as Gifts: Listen with curiosity, not defensiveness. 2 - Receive Challenges as Opportunities: See obstacles as pathways to personal growth. 3 - Receive People as Connection: Approach interactions with openness and potential. 4 - Receive Quiet Moments as Reflection: Pause and savor stillness in a busy world. 5 - Receive Your Body as a Miracle: Appreciate the constant, incredible work of your physical self. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 690, Megan chats to Danielle Madden about how generative AI uses significant environmental resources and how content creators can use the technology more ethically. Danielle Madden founded Project Meal Plan in 2016 after spending too many lunch breaks searching for mediocre food while working her office job. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science, and hands-on training as a Seattle Urban Nature Guide. Danielle loves being prepared (especially with food), and is usually the first one to arrive at a gathering with a homemade dish to share. At Project Meal Plan, Danielle focuses on make-ahead food and sharing tools to help others plan their own meals. In this episode, you'll learn how generative AI works, how to understand its environmental impact, and how to implement sustainable practices in business. Key points discussed include: - Generative AI Uses Significant Resources: Data centers consume substantial water and electricity through complex cooling processes. - Water Consumption is Substantial: ChatGPT uses approximately 500 milliliters of fresh water per 20-50 questions. - Environmental Impact Varies: Different AI platforms have varying resource consumption levels, though specifics are not transparent. - Ethical Usage Matters: Content creators should critically evaluate when and how they use AI tools. - Prompt Writing is Key: More specific, detailed prompts can reduce unnecessary AI usage and resource consumption. - Fact-Checking is Essential: Always review and verify AI-generated content for accuracy. - Small Actions Add Up: Implementing sustainable practices in business can create meaningful environmental impact. - Transparency Helps: Consider creating a sustainability policy that acknowledges your commitment to responsible technology use. Connect with Danielle Madden Website | Instagram

In episode 689, Dr. Kristen Wager teaches us how to use research to drive our content strategy, in order to predict what content will perform well instead of guessing what our audience wants. Dr. Kristen Wager is a consumer researcher with over 15 years of experience and a Ph.D. in research. She has worked with major companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta, gaining firsthand insight into how research shapes strategy and drives growth. While these companies invest billions each year to understand their audiences, she believes creators deserve access to the same level of insight. Most recently, Kristen led consumer research at Raptive, collaborating with some of the biggest food bloggers in the industry, including Half Baked Harvest, Tastes Better from Scratch, Just One Cookbook, Hey Grill Hey, and The Woks of Life. During this time, she developed a deep appreciation for the creator space and identified a significant gap: many creators lack access to first-party data to inform their business decisions. When Raptive ended its research program, Kristen launched CreatorPulse to continue supporting creators—particularly in the food and lifestyle space—with real-time audience feedback. Her mission is to help creators make smarter, data-backed decisions that truly reflect what their audience wants. In this episode, you'll learn how to build a purposeful, proactive content strategy, how to leverage research to guide your approach, and why this can have a powerful impact on your food content business. Key points discussed include: - The Importance of Research: Research is crucial for understanding your audience's needs and evolving trends, helping you predict content success rather than guessing. - Moving Beyond Gut Feelings: While intuition has its place, relying solely on it can lead to echo chambers and content burnout; scalable growth requires data-backed decisions. - Defining a Strategic Content Strategy: A proactive content strategy is built with purpose, intention, and your audience's needs in mind, aligning with your business growth. - Methods of Research: Use various research methods, from simple polls to in-depth surveys and social listening, to gather audience insights. - Types of Research: Different types of research, like audience insights, competitor benchmarking, and brand perception, offer unique benefits for shaping your content and brand. - Real-Time Data: Emphasize real-time data to stay ahead of trends and understand current audience needs, rather than relying solely on historical performance metrics. - Turning Data into Action: Translate data into actionable steps by identifying content themes, creating messaging frameworks, and aligning content with business goals. - Busting Research Myths: Overcome misconceptions about research by recognizing that it doesn't have to be time-consuming or expensive, and that audience feedback is invaluable. Connect with Dr. Kristen Wager Website

A practical guide to reframing negative thought patterns and inviting more joy, peace, and success into your daily life through intentional mental shifts. Today, I want to dive into the way we talk to ourselves and the narratives we create in our minds. Our brains are naturally wired to focus on the negative—but here's the good news: we have the power to rewrite that narrative. In this episode, I'm sharing five transformative strategies to help you reframe your thoughts and invite more joy into your everyday life. Action Plan: 1 - Flip the “What If” Spiral: Challenge negative what-if scenarios by intentionally creating positive, empowering alternative narratives. 2 - Rewrite Your Personal Stories: Recognize that the stories you tell yourself are often assumptions, and consciously choose more compassionate interpretations. 3 - Refuse Negative Talk: Disengage from gossip and complaints, instead redirecting conversations towards positivity and inspiration. 4 - Shift “I Have To” to “I Get To”: Transform obligations into opportunities by reframing mundane tasks as privileged experiences. 5 - Replace Comparison with Inspiration: When you catch yourself comparing, pause and ask how another's success can motivate rather than discourage you. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 687, Megan chats to Anna Dearmon Kornick about why a Weekly Planning Session is the best time management tip to start overcoming overwhelm and hitting our goals. Anna Dearmon Kornick is a highly sought after time management coach and keynote speaker, top 1% globally ranked podcast host of It's About Time, and founder of the It's About Time Academy. A true Louisiana firecracker who has become known for making time management fun, Anna helps busy professionals and business owners struggling with overwhelm manage their time using her personality-driven HEART Method. In this episode, you'll discover how to revolutionize your time management by creating a personalized weekly planning system for your food blogging business, including the best tools to use and strategies for building habits that last. Key points discussed include: - Weekly Planning is Critical: A consistent weekly planning session can help you anticipate challenges and create smoother transitions between tasks and responsibilities. - Customize Your Approach: There's no one-size-fits-all method for planning; adapt the strategy to fit your unique personality and lifestyle. - Use High and Low-Tech Tools: Combine digital tools like Asana with a physical notebook to capture and track ideas and tasks effectively. - Account for Transition Time: Build in buffer time between activities to reduce stress and prevent perpetual lateness. - Start Small and Reward Yourself: Begin with a bare minimum planning session and create a reward system to build a sustainable habit. - Embrace Flexibility: Your weekly planning can evolve and be completed in segments rather than one strict sit-down session. - Imagination Matters: Use creativity and forward-thinking to design a time management system that works uniquely for you. Connect with Anna Dearmon Kornick Website | Instagram

In episode 686, Christine Van Bloem shares how she was able to thrive in her niche and diversify her revenue after losing her cooking school in 2020, fighting against giving up on life post-50. Christine Van Bloem is the owner and head cook in The Empty Nest Kitchen, where she teaches empty nesters how to cook for one or two, while finding the fun in cooking with a healthy-ish vibe. She is also the creator of Menopause Meal Plans, providing tasty weekly menus utilizing the Mediterranean Diet for perimenopausal, menopausal, and post-menopausal women. Christine completed her Culinary Medicine Medical Provider (CCMP) certification and also hosts popular monthly online classes through AARP and the Empty Nest Kitchen podcast. In this episode, you'll learn how to build a reliable income from your food business (without relying on ad revenue), why your niche plays a critical role in diversifying your business and how to rise above personal hardships. Key points discussed include: - Diversification is Key: Explore multiple avenues like teaching classes, memberships, and corporate team-building to future-proof your business. - Find Your Niche: Focus on a specific audience, like empty nesters or menopausal women, to create targeted, valuable content. - Embrace Online Opportunities: Leverage platforms like AARP, virtual classes, and online memberships to reach a wider audience. - Be Authentic and Fearless: Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and try new things, even if they seem outside your comfort zone. - Learn from Challenges: Personal hardships can be transformative and lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. - Continuous Learning: Stay open to new certifications, courses, and skills that can enhance your business offerings. - Community Connection: Build meaningful relationships with your audience through interactive and personalized content. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 582: Creative Ways to Earn Money as A New Food Blogger with Katharine Rosenthal Connect with Christine Van Bloem Website | Instagram

Have you ever considered attending an in-person retreat with like-minded individuals? In this episode, I talk through 5 major mindset shifts I've experienced from attending retreats and how they have impacted my bus I'm super excited to share with you the incredible mindset benefits I've discovered from hosting and attending in-person retreats. These aren't just your typical business events - they're life-changing experiences that can completely shift how you see yourself and your potential. If you've ever felt stuck or isolated in your entrepreneurial journey, this episode is going to open your eyes to the magic of stepping out of your comfort zone. Action Plan: 1 - The power of in-person connections: Creating deep, meaningful relationships beyond virtual networking. 2 - Changing the way we talk to ourselves: Challenging and rewriting negative self-talk narrative. 3 - Identifying blind spots that are holding you back: Getting fresh perspectives from peer. 4 - The confidence boost that comes from external validation: Recognizing your unique strengths and expertise. 5 - The energy shift that comes from stepping away: Reconnecting with your core business purpose and dreams Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 684, Chelsea Cole teaches us how to creatively manage our time and build a successful business—all while navigating the challenges of first-time parenting. Chelsea Cole is a cookbook author, food blogger, and founder of The Cookbook Lab, a course that teaches self-publishing cookbooks. Her website, A Duck's Oven, focuses on sous vide cooking. She has written two cookbooks, Everyday Sous Vide and Sous Vide Meal Prep and her third, "A Feast of Thorns and Roses," a fan cookbook inspired by the "A Court of Thorns and Roses" series, comes out April 1st. She currently lives outside of Portland, Oregon with her husband, son, and daughter on the way. In this episode, you'll discover strategies for balancing your blog, launching new ventures like writing a cookbook, and embracing first-time parenthood—so you can keep growing your business while showing up for your family. Key points discussed include: - Strategic Outsourcing: Sometimes you have to know when to ask for help. Chelsea's smart move of delegating cookbook photography proves that you don't have to do everything yourself. - Flexible Work Hours: Those early morning hours are gold, especially with a newborn. Chelsea turned those 4 AM wake-ups into productive writing time. - Content Prioritization: Focus on essential business tasks while temporarily pausing less critical activities. - Family Support: Your support system is everything. Chelsea's mom stepping in one day a week made all the difference in maintaining her sanity and productivity. - Embrace Inconsistent Progress: Perfectionists, this one's for you - progress isn't linear when you're a new parent. Learning to be okay with that is a superpower. - Realistic Expectations: Set achievable daily goals and celebrate small victories to maintain motivation and avoid burnout while managing a newborn and a major work project. - Adaptable Planning: Create flexible plans that can shift with your newborn's unpredictable schedule. - Ruthless Efficiency: Become a time management ninja. When you've got limited windows to work, every minute counts. Connect with Chelsea Cole Website | Instagram      

In episode 683, Chad Allen delivers a game-changing strategy that could transform the way food bloggers think about growing their email lists: the powerful and often overlooked technique of email swaps Chad R. Allen is a writer, speaker, editor, and writing coach. A 25-year publishing professional, he has worked with such bestselling authors as Michael Hyatt, Caroline Leaf, Mark Batterson, and Phyllis Tickle. He is the creator of BookCamp, a training center and community for writers, as well as Book Proposal Academy, an online course. His passion is helping writers craft must-read books that reach large audiences, and he blogs at http://www.chadrallen.com/. In this episode, you'll learn about email swaps, how they can benefit you, and how to execute them effectively so you can get high-quality, valuable email subscribers. Key points discussed include: - Email is essential: You need an email list to build a solid business because social media is “rented property”. - Anyone can do an email swap: It is best to start with someone you know with a list comparable in size to yours. - Make it about them: If you're reaching out to someone you don't know, focus on how you can help them reach their audience. - The freebie matters: You want to offer an irresistible freebie to the other person's audience to encourage sign-ups. - Provide swipe copy: Make it easy for your partner by providing an email template they can adapt. - Email swaps yield warm leads: Email swaps can provide warmer leads than you find through paid ads. - Welcome new subscribers: Have a welcome email sequence to introduce yourself to new subscribers and build a relationship. - Avoid misaligned audiences: Make sure you and your partner have overlapping audiences. Connect with Chad Allen Website | Instagram

Discipline and freedom go hand in hand - implementing structure in your life can unlock creativity, joy, and long-term success. As entrepreneurs, we can have all the goals, dreams, and good intentions in the world, but without discipline, none of it matters. Lately, I've been reading The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin, and one section on discipline really stopped me in my tracks. It reminded me that discipline isn't about restriction - it's about creating the freedom to do what we truly love. Let's dive into five ways you can build more discipline into your life! Action Plan: 1 - Define Your Non-Negotiables: Get clear on what absolutely must happen in your business and life - treat these like brushing your teeth, no excuses. 2 - Create a System, Not Just a Goal: Goals are great, but systems are what keep you moving forward - set up routines that make discipline automatic. 3 - Time Block Like a Pro: Structure your schedule intentionally, dedicating specific time blocks to deep work, content creation, and rest. 4 - Eliminate Decision Fatigue: Simplify daily choices by meal prepping, pre-planning content, and having a structured to-do list to conserve mental energy. 5 - Use Rewards and Consequences: Give yourself incentives to stay on track, whether it's a coffee treat for completing tasks or a consequence for missed deadlines. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 681, Megan chats to Megan Keno about key aspects of her 15-year blogging journey that have led to her success, including knowing where to spend your time and when to pivot. Megan is creator and CEO of Homemade Home, a veteran 15 year old food blog, focused on every day elevated dishes and cast iron cooking. Megan is also a cast member of season 4 of FOX's Next Level Chef with Gordon Ramsay. Oh yeah, and he has her cookbook. In this episode, you'll learn about building a sustainable food blogging business while maintaining authenticity, and why saying ‘yes' to unexpected opportunities can determine the future of your blog. Key points discussed include: - Authenticity is Key: Staying true to yourself creates opportunities and resonates with your audience. - Slow and Steady Wins: Consistency and intentional content creation are more important than viral trends. - Platform Strategy: Focus on social media platforms where you naturally enjoy consuming content, rather than spreading yourself thin. - Rebrand with Purpose: Be willing to evolve your brand to reflect your current life and passions. - Overcome Obstacles: Challenges like algorithm changes or traffic drops don't define your long-term success. - Say Yes to Opportunities: Being open to unexpected chances can lead to transformative experiences. - Self-Reflection Matters: Take time to understand your unique strengths and goals as a content creator. - Long-Term Perspective: Building a sustainable blog requires patience, love for your craft, and continuous learning. Connect with Megan Keno Website | Instagram

In episode 680, Coley Gaffney teaches us how to deal with mental health struggles like anxiety and depression while running a food blog. Nicole "Coley" Gaffney is a professionally trained chef and content creator behind the website Coley Cooks. She specializes in seafood and Italian cuisine, and previously had her own business as a personal chef and caterer. Coley has made numerous television appearances, including on QVC, The Rachael Ray Show, The Today Show, and most notably, was 2nd runner up on season 10 of Food Network Star. Coley lives at the southern Jersey shore with her husband and pup, and is passionate about helping people connect through food. In this episode, you'll learn how to recognize and address mental health issues without relying on therapy, and why understanding food blogging as a long game is essential to keep a healthy balance with your blog. Key points discussed include: - Mental health struggles are common: Experiencing mental health challenges is a normal part of life, and sharing experiences can provide comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. - Acknowledge and address issues: Recognizing and addressing mental health struggles is essential because nobody is coming to rescue you. - Journaling can be a powerful tool: Regularly journaling about thoughts and feelings can help process emotions and track personal growth. - Make small promises: To combat work paralysis, start by making tiny promises to yourself and gradually build momentum. - Social media can impact mental health: Taking breaks from social media can be beneficial, especially if it causes anxiety or stress. - Blogging is a long game: Success in blogging takes time, so focus on the love of creating content rather than solely on monetary gains. - Real people are valuable: Authentic, personal recipes and cooking advice will always be valued over AI-generated content. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 534: It's OK to Ask for Help as a Food Blogger with Teri-Ann Carty. Connect with Coley Gaffney Website | Instagram

Here are five practical ways to slow down and savor life, helping you create more balance, joy, and mindfulness in your personal and entrepreneurial journey. Life moves FAST, doesn't it? If we're not careful, we get swept up in the hustle, always chasing the next thing, and suddenly, we realize we haven't truly enjoyed our days. I've been there, pushing, striving, and forgetting to pause. But this year, I'm making a conscious effort to slow down, reflect, and soak in life's little joys. If you're feeling stretched thin, you are NOT alone. Let's do this together! Here are five ways we can all slow down and savor life. Action Plan: 1 - Prioritize What Matters Most: Do a time audit, set boundaries, and make sure your daily actions reflect what's truly important. 2 - Be Mindful in the Present Moment: Take a deep breath, engage your senses, and stop letting distractions pull you away from what really matters. 3 - Simplify Your Day: Clear the clutter from your schedule, cut out unnecessary tasks, and create routines that bring ease instead of stress. 4 - Make Time for Joyful Activities: Schedule FUN into your week, say "yes" to spontaneous moments, and do the things that fill your cup. 5 - Practice Gratitude for the Small Things:  Keep a gratitude journal, notice the little joys in each day, and share your appreciation with others. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram  

In episode 678, Megan Porta chats with McKenna Pulda, Emily Christensen, and Amy Coyne about how to successfully collaborate on a cookbook. McKenna Pulda is a former choir teacher turned sourdough enthusiast, recipe developer, and mom of two. After receiving her first sourdough starter 4 years ago, her love for baking quickly turned into a passion for creating delicious, from-scratch recipes with a sourdough twist. Since starting her blog, Simplicity and a Starter, in 2023, McKenna has shared 150+ tried-and-true sourdough recipes and also co-authored a cookbook, Our Sourdough Table, featuring long-fermented and quick sourdough recipes that are perfect for the holiday season. Emily is the creator and voice behind Country Roads Sourdough, where she shares tried-and-true sourdough bread and discard recipes, along with helpful sourdough tips and techniques. After leaving her corporate brand management career to become a stay-at-home mom, she quickly realized she needed a creative outlet and began hosting local sourdough classes. What started as a passion project quickly took off after a few viral Instagram videos—turning her love for sourdough into a full-time career. Amy Coyne is a sourdough teacher, recipe developer, and mom to four awesome kiddos. She has grown her website over the last two years from 100K pageviews in 2022 to almost 10 million pageviews at the end of 2024. She shares tried-and-true sourdough recipes on her website and with her Instagram and social media communities. Summary & Takeaways In this episode, you'll learn how to coordinate writing a collaborative cookbook, from deciding who to collaborate with to how to create a cohesive look and boost sales through social media marketing. Key points discussed include: - Who to collaborate with: Emily reached out to Amy and McKenna via Instagram DMs because they had similar followings and vibes. - Deciding on a niche: The group decided to focus on holiday sourdough recipes, filling a unique niche. - Maintaining a cohesive look: They coordinated photography styles, using neutral colors and backgrounds, even reshooting existing blog photos to align. - Organization and book cover design: The group used Google Docs to organize recipes by category and Canva to create the cookbook layout. - In-person retreat: The group had a working weekend at an Airbnb to photograph recipes, proofread, and plan marketing strategies. - Choosing a self-publishing platform: They selected Lulu for its print-on-demand service, quality, payment splitting, and worldwide printing locations. - Marketing strategies: The group conducted live bake-alongs and created weekly Instagram reels to promote the cookbook. - Customer service: The team helped customers with order issues, but also realized the limitations of print-on-demand, since they didn't have the actual product or shipping control. - The power of collaboration: Working together helped them grow their followings, build lasting friendships, and create a product that they loved. Guest Details Connect with McKenna Pulda Website | Instagram Connect with Emily Christensen Website | Instagram Connect with Amy Coyne Website | Instagram

In episode 677, Debra Eckerling teaches us how to start a successful podcast or live stream by leveraging our existing food blog content and audience. Debra Eckerling is a goal-strategist, workshop leader, and award-winning author and podcaster. The creator of The DEB Method for goal-setting simplified, Debra works with individuals, teams, and businesses on personal and professional projects, networking strategy, and book/book proposal development. She hosts GoalChatLive/GoalChat and the Taste Buds with Deb podcasts, and is the author of "Your Goal Guide" and "52 Secrets for Goal-Setting and Goal-Getting." In this episode, you'll learn how to break through common barriers and launch a podcast or live show that supports your brand and expands your reach. Key points discussed include: - Podcasting doesn't have to be perfect: You don't need expensive equipment or flawless execution—just start recording and sharing your content. - Time management is key: Look at your current schedule and find ways to eliminate tasks or adjust priorities to make room for your podcast. - Leverage what you already have: Your food blog gives you a built-in niche, brand, and audience—use that as the foundation for your podcast. - Networking is a major benefit: A podcast provides an opportunity to connect with experts, expand your network, and build relationships that can benefit your brand. - Start simple and evolve: Begin with a basic concept and let your show naturally develop based on what works best for you and your audience. - Repurpose your content: Use your podcast episodes in blog posts, social media, YouTube, and more to maximize your reach. - Commit to consistency: Whether you publish weekly, biweekly, or monthly, sticking to a regular schedule is essential for audience growth. - Treat your podcast like an appointment: Schedule time for your podcast work and honor it as you would any other important commitment. Guest Details Connect with Debra Eckerling Website | Instagram

Building consistency in your habits is the key to long-term success - learn five simple steps to make habits stick, even when life gets in the way. There's so much power in being consistent with your habits, and it's not about being perfect or overly ambitious. It's about showing up, even in small ways, every single day. I recently read a quote that really stuck with me: "Forming good habits isn't about being perfect, it's about being more of who you are." That hit me hard because when we build habits that align with who we truly are, they become effortless and life-changing. Let's break it down into five steps so you can build habits that stick for the long haul! Action Plan: 1 - Start Small and Build Gradually: Begin with tiny, manageable habits and gradually build on them. 2 - Make Habits Non-Negotiable: Treat your habit as a must-do part of your day, no exceptions. 3 - Track Your Progress and Celebrate Wins: Use a tracker and celebrate small wins to stay motivated. 4 - Stay Committed Even When Results Aren't Immediate: Trust the proces, even when results aren't immediate. 5 - Adjust and Adapt When Necessary: Life happens—adjust but don't give up! Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 675, Megan chats to Laura Piper about how to leverage Pinterest Trends to increase your visibility and drive more traffic to your food blog. Laura Piper is a Pinterest expert who works exclusively with food bloggers. Her mission is to help them make Pinterest their #1 traffic source without feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. Using her proven Pinterest strategies, along with in-depth Pinterest trends and keyword insights, she simplifies the platform for food bloggers, allowing them to focus on what they love most—creating amazing new recipes. In this episode, we break down practical strategies for using Pinterest Trends effectively, helping you create timely content that reaches the right audience at the right moment. Key points discussed include: - Pinterest Trends is a goldmine: This free tool helps you identify what people are searching for and when to publish your content for maximum impact. - Use seasonal trends to your advantage: Find emerging trends early to ensure your content gains traction as searches increase. - Growing trends aren't always the best choice: Instead of targeting already popular trends, focus on those about to take off. - Timing is key: Start pinning seasonal content well in advance—sometimes months ahead—to give Pinterest time to understand and distribute your content. - Optimize your pins with keywords: Include trending keywords in pin titles, descriptions, and board names to improve visibility. - Roundup posts can boost engagement: Pinterest favors roundup posts because they provide multiple options in one place, increasing saves and clicks. - Pinterest favors high-quality content: Authentic, original images and well-researched posts perform better, especially as Pinterest cracks down on AI-generated spam. - Less is more when pinning: Quality pins aligned with trends outperform high-volume, low-quality pinning strategies. Connect with Laura Piper Website | Instagram

In episode 674, Alicia Gonzalez Tome teaches us practical strategies for managing time efficiently, optmizing for SEO and balancing life and blogging - especially as a part-time blogger. Alicia Gonzalez Tome is a GF & DF nomad foodie who loves nature and sports. She had a thyroid disorder that led her to change her diet and was part of her natural recovery from this autoimmune disease. Originally from Spain and based in Australia since 2017, she is constantly traveling and currently living in her campervan along the NSW coast. In this episode, you'll learn key strategies for efficiently managing a food blog, from photography tips to time management strategies, while keeping balance in your life. Key points discussed include: - Be intentional with content: Focus on high-volume keywords and recipes that will drive traffic to your blog. - Use the right tools: Investing in tools like RankIQ, SEMrush, and the Feast plugin can save time and boost efficiency. - Batch content creation: Plan ahead and shoot multiple recipes in one session to streamline your workflow. - Keep photography simple: Use a basic camera, natural light, and minimal props to create beautiful yet efficient food photography. - Avoid social media burnout: If Instagram or other platforms drain your energy, it's okay to take breaks and focus on SEO instead. - Schedule and plan ahead: Set clear deadlines for recipe testing, photography, and writing to stay on track. - Know your limits: Be realistic about how much content you can produce each month to maintain a work-life balance. - Take breaks when needed: Stepping back can help you return with fresh energy and creativity. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 593: 3 Simple Ways to Successfully Blog Part-Time While Working Full-time with Kimberlee Ho Connect with Alicia Gonzalez Tome Website | Instagram

Stop letting negative thoughts and words hold you back—this episode explores five things to stop saying and thinking to create a more positive, fulfilling life. Lately, I've been thinking a lot about the power of our words and thoughts. What we tell ourselves shapes our reality, and sometimes, we don't even realize how much negativity we let in. I recently made a commitment to be more intentional about the things I say and think—and let me tell you, it's not always easy! But the shifts I've noticed already are incredible. If you want to create a better future for yourself, join me as we talk about five things to stop saying and thinking so you can start seeing real change. Action Plan: 1 - Stop complaining about things you can't control. Complaining drains your energy and keeps you stuck. Instead, focus on gratitude and actionable solutions. 2 - Stop gossiping about others. Gossip creates negativity and doesn't serve you. Shift conversations to positive or productive topics. 3 - Stop making excuses. Excuses hold you back from growth. Take responsibility and reframe challenges into opportunities. 4 - Stop overthinking and worrying about the future. Stay present and take action instead of getting lost in “what-ifs." 5 - Stop believing you're not good enough. Replace self-doubt with affirmations and recognize your worth—because you are enough. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 672, Megan chats to Dana Shrager about how to stand out in today's crowded online food blogging space by embracing authenticity and developing a unique voice. Dana Shrager is the recipe creator at Dana's Table, where she shares recipes for Jewish holidays and healthy-ish family dinners. She started a recipe website 13 years ago to share recipes with family and friends. Three years ago, she rebranded and began running her site full-time. Now, she helps readers from around the world feel confident cooking and gathering loved ones around their holiday tables. In this episode, you'll learn how to develop a distinct blogging voice, build trust with your audience, and create content that resonates in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Key points discussed include: - Find Your Unique Point of View: Defining your niche and personal style helps you stand out among the many food blogs online. - Authenticity Matters: Readers connect more with real, relatable content rather than polished perfection. - Communicate Your Expertise: Share your recipe testing process, pitfalls, and tips to build credibility. - Leverage Audience Engagement: Engage with your readers via social media, email, and community groups to understand their needs. - Be Transparent with Your Process: Explain why your recipe works, how you developed it, and what makes it special. - SEO and Passion Go Hand in Hand: While SEO research is essential, choosing recipes that align with your expertise will attract a loyal audience. Connect with Dana Shrager Website | Instagram

In episode 671, Amy Coyne teaches us the exact strategies she used to rapidly grow her sourdough blog, Amy Bakes Bread, from 100,000 to 10 million page views in just 2 years. Amy Coyne is a sourdough teacher, recipe developer, and mom to four awesome kiddos. She has grown her website over the last two years from 100K pageviews in 2022 to almost 10 million pageviews at the end of 2024. She shares tried-and-true sourdough recipes on her website and with her Instagram and social media communities. In this episode, you'll learn how Amy leveraged Instagram, built a strong community, deeply engaging with her audience, and strategically optimizing her blog to drive millions of page views. Key points discussed include: - Don't underestimate consistency: Amy posted daily on Instagram for over a year, which significantly contributed to her growth. - Engage with your audience: She prioritized answering followers' questions and tailoring content to their needs. - Leverage social media for blog traffic: Instagram played a major role in directing people to her website. - Optimize for SEO: After seeing success on social media, Amy shifted her focus to improving her blog's search rankings. - Diversify content formats: She is expanding into YouTube and email marketing to connect with a wider audience. - Trust the process and start before you're ready: Amy emphasizes the importance of taking action, even when you feel unprepared. Connect with Amy Coyne Website | Instagram

Struggling with overthinking? In this episode, Megan shares five powerful strategies to stop ruminating and reclaim your mental clarity. If you've ever found yourself stuck in a loop of overthinking, replaying past conversations, or worrying about things you can't control—trust me, I've been there. Recently, my business coach called me out on how my own thoughts were draining me, not the external events I blamed. It was a wake-up call! So today, I'm sharing five simple but effective ways to break free from rumination and get back to a place of peace and productivity. Let's put an end to the mental spirals together! Action Plan: 1 - Meditation: A simple daily habit to quiet the mind and break the overthinking cycle. 2 - Journaling: Get your thoughts out of your head and onto paper for instant clarity. 3 - Healthy Distractions: Shift your focus with an activity that keeps your mind engaged. 4 - Reframing & Resetting: Catch negative thoughts and flip the script to regain control. 5 - Change Your Environment: A quick physical shift can instantly reset your mental state. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 669, Megan chats to Chris Panteli about how food bloggers can build high-quality backlinks and boost their domain authority using digital PR strategies. Chris Panteli is the co-founder of Linkifi, a digital PR link-building agency that specializes in securing high-quality media links for clients. His entrepreneurial journey took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 33, leading him to sell his family's fish and chip shop business. Panteli holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Economics from the University of Liverpool. In January 2022, Panteli co-founded Linkifi, which rapidly grew to generate $50,000 per month within its first year. The agency focuses on responding to PR requests from journalists on behalf of clients, helping them secure valuable online links and enhance their SEO performance. Panteli is also a podcast host, co-hosting "Market Movers: Building Brands and Links with Linkifi," where he shares insights on branding, SEO, and link-building strategies. His expertise in digital PR and link building has made him a respected voice in the eCommerce and digital marketing industries. In this episode, you'll learn how to secure backlinks from top-tier media outlets, optimize your website for PR success, and track your mentions to maximize SEO benefits. Key points discussed include: - Why backlinks matter: High-quality backlinks help increase domain authority, improve SEO, and drive organic traffic. - Best platforms for PR opportunities: Websites like Source of Sources (SOS), Quoted, and Press Flow connect bloggers with journalists looking for expert sources. - How to pitch journalists successfully: Personalize your pitches, highlight your expertise, and follow up politely to increase your chances of getting featured. - Optimizing your website for PR: A clear about page, professional social presence, and credentials help journalists verify and trust your expertise. - Tracking and securing unlinked mentions: Use tools like Google Alerts and Talkwalker to monitor mentions, and reach out to request a backlink if your name appears without one. - The evolving role of AI in PR: AI can assist with research and structuring pitches, but maintaining a human, authentic tone is essential. Connect with Chris Panteli Website | Facebook

In episode 668, Donnie Lygonis teaches us the power of a growth mindset and how embracing failure can set you up for long-term success. Donnie Lygonis is an Innovation Strategist and Business Coach at KTH Innovation, The Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm, where he has been helping researchers and students for over 14 years, turning their ideas and results into viable products and services. Donnie enjoys working hands-on with exponential technologies and collaborating with individuals who have world-changing and world-saving ideas. His latest venture is Mellanmål Inc, a U.S.-based company focused on bringing Swedish better-for-you-and-the-planet food products to America. In this episode, you'll learn how to shift your mindset to embrace challenges, develop resilience, and build meaningful connections that can drive your business forward. Key points discussed include: - Growth mindset is key to success: Your mindset determines how you approach challenges, failure, and change—embracing growth leads to resilience and adaptability. - Failure is not the end—it's a step forward: Rather than fearing failure, view it as a learning opportunity that helps refine your approach and move closer to your goals. - Success is a personal definition: Success isn't just about money or status—it's about fulfillment, impact, and finding meaning in your work. - Networking is a powerful tool: Building relationships and leveraging your network can help you gain new opportunities, perspectives, and support. - Small, consistent actions lead to big results: Progress is made through small, consistent steps over time—whether it's learning a skill, growing a business, or developing a new habit. - Celebrate your wins along the way: Taking moments to reflect on and appreciate what you've accomplished can fuel motivation and a positive mindset. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 576: Tough Transitions – How to Transform Tremors of Change into Catalysts for Growth with James Elliot. Connect with Donnie Lygonis LinkedIn | Instagram

In this episode, I want to share five powerful strategies to help you recover when life throws you an unexpected curveball. We've all had those weeks where everything is going great—until suddenly, it's not. Maybe you get sick, something unexpected happens, or bad news completely throws off your plans. Years ago, weeks like that would have totally taken me down, and I'd struggle to get back on track. But over time, I've learned a few things that make bouncing back easier, and today, I'm sharing five strategies to help you recover when life turns your week upside down. Action Plan: 1 - Embrace the climb back up the mountain: Recovery takes time, and small wins are worth celebrating. 2 - Build a trusted circle of support: Having reliable people in your life makes overcoming setbacks easier. 3 - Establish good habits: Foundational habits provide stability and help you regain momentum. 4 - Prioritize self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential, even in difficult times. 5 - Practice flexibility and acceptance: Letting go of control can reduce stress and make recovery smoother. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 666, Megan chats to Dawn Ledet about how food bloggers can overcome self-doubt, procrastination and perfectionism by building unshakable self-trust. Dawn Ledet, a certified life coach, former corporate sales executive, and author of Master Your Inner Dialogue: Transform Your Self-Talk for Goal Success, is on a mission to help high-achieving entrepreneurs and leaders crush their goals with clarity, confidence, and ease. Drawing on her expertise in coaching and years of experience in high-stakes sales and leadership, Dawn empowers clients to rewrite self-sabotaging narratives, build unshakable self-trust, and turn inner dialogue into a powerful tool for lasting success. Through practical strategies and proven frameworks, she helps people achieve their dreams without the overwhelm.  In this episode, you'll learn how mastering self-trust can help you make confident decisions, follow through on your goals, and ultimately achieve success in your blogging business. Key points discussed include: - Self-trust is the foundation of success: Without trust in yourself, challenges like procrastination and perfectionism can hold you back. - Three key skills for achieving any goal: Making decisions, following through, and having your own back are essential to personal and business growth. - Your inner dialogue shapes your reality: The way you talk to yourself can either propel you forward or keep you stuck in self-doubt. - Reframing procrastination and perfectionism: Instead of labeling yourself, recognize them as choices and get curious about why you're making them. - The power of asking the right questions: Instead of asking “Why can't I do this?” try “What do I need to move forward?” to shift your mindset. - Energy matters in self-trust and productivity: Differentiate between draining energy and fulfilling energy that comes from aligned work. - Create an "I'm So Impressed" list: Keep track of your wins to build confidence and reinforce self-trust. Connect with Dawn Ledet Website | Instagram

In episode 665, Brett Dupree teaches us how collaborating with other content creators—especially through virtual summits—can accelerate business growth and create a steady, self-sustained income Brett DuPree is a food blogger and the founder of Freaking Delish, where she helps hardworking families create simple, delicious meals that fit into their busy lives. In addition to her blog and membership platform, she hosts an annual summit, "What's for Dinner?": The Summit, that brings together content creators from across the food and lifestyle space to share practical tips, recipes, and inspiration. With a focus on collaboration and serving everyday families, Brett is passionate about making mealtime stress-free and meaningful for everyone. In this episode, you'll discover powerful collaboration strategies and gain insight into hosting virtual summits, helping food bloggers expand their reach and grow their businesses, without relying on social media. Key points discussed include: - Why collaboration matters: Working together with other bloggers can accelerate your growth and open new opportunities. - The power of virtual summits: Hosting or participating in online summits helps expand your audience and generate revenue. - Breaking free from social media dependence: Brett shares why she built her business without relying heavily on social media. - Overcoming fears around video content: Being comfortable on camera can open doors to new collaborations and opportunities. - How to build strong relationships: Genuine connections with fellow bloggers can lead to ongoing collaborations and success. - Getting past rejection in collaborations: Many bloggers are hesitant to collaborate at first, but persistence and exposure to new ideas can change their mindset. - Balancing summit planning with content creation: Hosting a summit is a big commitment, so careful organization and time management are key to success. Connect with Brett Dupree Website | Instagram

In this episode, I want to share five small but powerful habits that have made a huge difference in my personal growth. This past week has been a rough one for me—I've been sick, and it really knocked me out. But even in the toughest weeks, I've found that sticking to small, intentional habits makes a world of difference. Habits can make you or break you, and I've been on a mission to build ones that help me live my best life. Action Plan: 1 - Start Your Day with a Positive Affirmation: Set the tone for your day by reinforcing empowering thoughts. 2 - Set One Focused Goal for the Day: Prioritize what truly matters to stay on track and avoid overwhelm. 3 - Practice Gratitude Before Bed: Reflect on positive moments to improve emotional well-being and cultivate an optimistic mindset. 4 - Take 10 Minutes for Mindfulness or Meditation: Boost mental clarity, emotional resilience, and focus with a short daily practice. 5 - Read for 10-15 Minutes Daily: Gain knowledge, new perspectives, and inspiration through consistent reading. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 663, Megan chats with Jess Smith to uncover the untold truths of traditional cookbook publishing—from crafting a winning proposal to landing a deal, and whether a large social media following really matters. Jess is a mom to three girls based in Kansas City, Missouri. While living in Thailand and working at the U.S. Embassy in 2010 she took Thai cooking classes on the weekends and shared everything she learned on her food blog InquiringChef.com. In the years that followed she pursued her dream of making a career in food and became the chief recipe developer for the award-winning meal planning app Cook Smarts. Inquiring Chef has grown to over 6 million page views a year and has been featured in publications like Parade, Hallmark, and HuffPost. In 2024 Jess opened a cooking school for kids in Kansas City called Inquiring Chef Academy where she spends school breaks guiding elementary-aged kids through lessons on everything from baking sourdough to chopping vegetables to setting the table. Her first cookbook, Start with a Vegetable, will be released in January 2025. In this episode, you'll learn how to write a compelling proposal, find an agent, work with a publisher and balance the whole process with running a blog and looking after your family. Key points discussed include: - A strong proposal is essential: Jess spent 6–8 months crafting a compelling proposal, which played a crucial role in landing her book deal. - An agent can be a game-changer: Having an agent helped Jess find a publisher and negotiate a significantly better advance. - A huge social following isn't required: Jess landed a traditional publishing deal without massive social media numbers—her strong concept and blog traffic helped. - Cookbook writing requires balance: Writing a book took time away from blogging, requiring a shift in priorities. - The editing process is intense: Working with professional editors improved her writing and recipe development skills. - Promotion is an ongoing effort: The marketing push doesn't end at launch—Jess continues to promote her book through various channels. - Photography can be a major challenge: Jess took all the photos for her book, which was rewarding but also a significant time commitment. - Investing in support is worth it: Hiring help for styling, editing, and even dishwashing made the process smoother and more manageable. Connect with Jess Smith Website | Instagram

In episode 662, Christina Jolam and Nadia Shatila share how they were able to recover from devastating traffic loss following Google's Helpful Content Update (HCU). Nadia is the blogger behind Simple And Fraiche, a website dedicated to sharing wholesome recipes that utilize real foods with minimally processed ingredients. Her goal is to help people create recipes that not only fuel their bodies but also taste great. Christina Jolam helps home chefs get confident cooking seafood through her site, Weekday Pescatarian. The former communications consultant creates foolproof fish recipes that work whether you're shopping at a Portuguese fish market or your local grocery store. Cooking and writing from her adopted home in Portugal, she helps her followers master restaurant-quality seafood dishes and build a delicious, fish-forward lifestyle. In this episode, you'll learn how to endure long periods of traffic loss and decide what action you should take to successfully regain momentum. Key points discussed include: - Accept the reality of change: Google updates aren't personal; they aim to improve user experience. Adapting to change is key to long-term success. - Assess and improve your content: Review existing posts with a fresh perspective—focus on user experience, clarity, and overall helpfulness. - Strengthen EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): Build credibility by showcasing expertise in your niche through an updated about page, author bios, and citations. - Optimize technical aspects: Ensure images, alt text, interlinking, and post formatting enhance usability and search visibility. - Diversify traffic sources: Relying solely on Google traffic is risky—invest in Pinterest, email lists, social media, and brand partnerships. - Update and refine posts regularly: Revisiting older content with new insights keeps your blog relevant and valuable. - Stay curious and keep learning: Instead of blaming algorithm changes, focus on learning, adapting, and finding new ways to serve your audience. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 648: How to Bounce Back and Thrive After Significant Google Traffic Loss with Jules Grasekamp Connect with Christina Jolam Website | Instagram Connect with Nadia Shatila Website | Instagram

In this episode, we're going to talk about how to use fear as a catalyst for growth in five key areas to open up new opportunities this year. Fear can be a major roadblock, but what if we started viewing it as a guide instead? This year, I decided to challenge myself by facing fears head-on, and today, I'm sharing five powerful areas where stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to personal and professional growth. Whether it's putting yourself out there in new ways, making bold business moves, or tackling financial and health challenges, embracing fear can open up new doors. Let's dive in and get uncomfortable—in the best way possible! Action Plan: 1 - Personal Growth: Challenge limiting beliefs and take on new experiences that push you forward. 2 - Professional Growth: Show up boldly in your business, even when it feels scary or imperfect. 3 - Community: Connect with others, build relationships, and embrace the vulnerability that comes with it. 4 - Courageous Action: Take bold steps in life and business that may feel intimidating but lead to huge rewards. 5 - Health & Finances: Tackle fears around well-being and money to create a stronger foundation for success. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 660, Megan chats to Lauren Less about how to quickly grow a Substack audience and harness the platform for food blogging and community engagement. Lauren Less combines her passions for food and helping others by creating a space where people can find allergy-friendly recipes, chronic illness support, non-toxic lifestyle suggestions, and health and wellness tips. She discusses everything from fitness with chronic illness to tips for traveling with food allergies and everything in between. In this episode, you'll learn how Lauren grew her Substack from zero to 13,000 subscribers and how Substack can serve as both an email list and a blog, helping you connect with your audience in a more personal and customizable way. Key points discussed include: - Substack is more than just an email platform: It functions like a blog, allowing creators to share content and build a community. - Growing a subscriber base takes consistency: Lauren used Instagram and TikTok to direct her audience to her Substack. - Listening to your audience is key: Making adjustments based on subscriber feedback improves engagement and retention. - Monetization is built-in: Substack allows creators to offer paid subscriptions for exclusive content. - Cross-promotion helps growth: The recommendation feature on Substack lets creators share and promote each other's newsletters. - Substack offers more than written content: Features like podcasting, video, and live interactions help creators engage with their audience in multiple ways. - Owning your audience is crucial: Unlike social media platforms, Substack ensures direct access to subscribers without algorithm limitations. Connect with Lauren Less Website | Instagram

In episode 659, Allea Grummert shares seven common email marketing mistakes and how to fix them to create happy, engaged subscribers. Allea Grummert is an email marketing strategist, conversion copywriter and tech expert who helps bloggers make a lasting first impression through automated welcome and nurture sequences. She helps her clients create strategic email sequences that engage email subscribers, build brand loyalty and optimize conversions for sales and site traffic. She is the host of Happy Subscribers podcast. In this episode, you'll learn why a thorough welcome sequence is crucial for building an engaged subscriber list and why you should clean out your email list regularly. Key points discussed include: - Welcome new subscribers properly. Many bloggers miss the chance to make a strong first impression—use a welcome page and an introduction video to engage them right away. - Make your first email personal. Avoid generic confirmation emails; instead, reflect your brand personality and set clear expectations for subscribers. - Set up a welcome sequence. A structured email sequence helps introduce new subscribers to your best content and builds a strong connection. - Personalize content wisely. Use segmentation to send relevant emails without overcomplicating your strategy. - Drive traffic back to your funnel. Regularly promote your freebies and opt-ins within your email list to keep subscribers engaged. - Clean your email list regularly. Remove inactive subscribers to improve deliverability and engagement. - Keep track of what's being sent. Maintain an SOP (standard operating procedure) to stay organized and ensure your emails align with your strategy. Connect with Allea Grummert Website | Instagram

In this episode, we're going to talk five simple yet powerful mindset shifts that can instantly bring more positivity into your life. Some days just feel off. No matter how much we plan or try to stay positive, life, work, and everything in between can throw us off track. But here's the good news: you don't have to stay stuck in that negative space. I've found that small, intentional shifts can turn a rough day around fast, and today, I'm sharing five simple things you can do right now to boost your mood and bring more positivity into your life. These aren't big, time-consuming tasks—they're quick, effective, and totally doable. Action Plan: 1 - Actually Listen: Be fully present in conversations and truly hear others. 2 - Offer Undeserved Grace: Show kindness and forgiveness, even when it's not expected. 3 - Experience a Moment: Pause and appreciate the present, no matter how small. 4 - Lose the Phone: Step away from your screen to reconnect with yourself and others. 5 - Spend 10 Minutes Decluttering: Clear your space to create mental clarity and peace. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 657, Megan chats to Kara Myers about how to organize and automate your blogging business for success in 2025. Kara is the recipe developer, photographer, and voice behind Sweetly Splendid, where she shares comforting Southern and Tex-Mex recipes. She is a 6th-generation Texan and has a passion for nostalgic flavors that bring people together. Her work has been featured in outlets like Woman's World and Food & Wine. She is a seasoned entrepreneur with multiple successful businesses, and specializes in helping others streamline their workflows and build efficient processes. Kara likes to use the approach of combining real-world experience with actionable insights for creators looking to grow and thrive. When she's not working, Kara loves camping, reading, and spending time with her daughter and dogs. In this episode, you'll learn actionable strategies for streamlining workflows, implementing project management systems, and creating a sustainable approach to blogging. Key points discussed include: - Your brain is not a project management system: Storing everything in one place frees up mental space and increases productivity. - A time audit reveals hidden inefficiencies: Track your tasks for a week to identify bottlenecks and areas that slow you down. - Content planning reduces stress and boosts efficiency: Even planning one month ahead prevents last-minute scrambling and saves time. - Choosing the right project management tool is key: ClickUp, Asana, and Airtable help streamline tasks—pick one that fits how your brain works. - Automations free up valuable time: Tools like Zapier, Wordable, and Finite Analytics handle repetitive tasks so you can focus on growth. - Small organizational changes lead to more revenue: The more systematized your business is, the more time you have to scale and make money. - Break down big goals into actionable steps: Instead of vague yearly goals, set specific, trackable monthly milestones. - Give yourself grace and stay flexible: Life happens—adjust your systems and goals as needed without guilt. Connect with Kara Myers Website | Instagram

In episode 656, Alicia Wolf shares how to transform personal struggles into a thriving niche blog that supports others facing similar challenges, just as she has done with her own medical journey. Alicia Wolf created a food blog after being diagnosed with chronic vestibular migraine and losing her career in design. Her blog is seen as a very small niche and not widely understood by companies, but 10% of the world population lives with migraine attacks. Alicia has been able to grow a small website that was focused on helping people with a migraine diet into 400K sessions a month with multiple sources of revenue outside of ad income as well as 2 published cookbooks. In this episode, you'll learn tips for diversifying income outside of ad revenue, how to deal with blogging setbacks and the importance of community in a chronic-illness focused blog. Key points discussed include: - Community is key: Building a strong, engaged audience is essential for niche blogs, especially those focused on chronic illness. - Diversify your income: Relying solely on ad revenue can be risky—explore brand partnerships, consulting, books, and affiliate marketing. - Leverage your expertise: Alicia collaborates with medical professionals to add credibility to her content, making her blog a trusted resource. - Be adaptable in blogging: Google updates and social media shifts can impact traffic, so diversifying content distribution is crucial. - Consistency and patience pay off: Growing a niche blog takes time, but staying committed to quality content and engagement leads to success. - Your story is your strength: Sharing personal experiences builds trust and authenticity, helping you connect deeply with your audience. - Keep learning and evolving: Whether through domain research, audience feedback, or SEO strategies, continuous learning is key to staying relevant. Connect with Alicia Wolf Website | Instagram  

In this episode, we're going to talk five key replacements you can make in your life and business to help you achieve entrepreneurial success. Ever feel like you're stuck in a rut, spinning on an endless hamster wheel, or trapped in an out-of-control wash cycle? I've been there, and I know how hard it can be to break free. That's why I'd like to share these five powerful replacements you can make in your life and business to help you reset, refocus, and find success. If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just a little lost, these shifts might be exactly what you need. Action Plan: 1 - Replace fear with courage. 2 - Replace comparison with community. 3 - Replace scarcity with abundance. 4 - Replace perfection with progress. 5 - Replace overwhelm with clarity. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 654, Megan chats with Ashley Freeman about professional food styling, including how to embrace ‘mess' and other key elements that make food images visually appealing and unique. Ashley Strickland Freeman is the creator of the blog Little Black Skillet. Just like a "Little Black Dress," she strives to create approachable, everyday recipes her audience can trust and turn to again and again. With over 19 years of experience as a food stylist, cookbook author, recipe developer and tester, and culinary producer (culinary content creator for short), Ashley offers a unique perspective having worked on all sides of culinary publishing. In addition to developing recipes and food styling for some of her favorite brands, she's currently working on her fourth cookbook. In this episode, you'll discover the essential equipment for capturing mouthwatering food photos, how props can make or break your shots, and the role of color theory in food photography. Key points discussed include: - Invest in a quality camera and lens: Having the right equipment, such as a DSLR camera and a versatile zoom lens, can make a significant difference in your food photography. - Use a sturdy tripod: A geared tripod, like the Manfrotto, allows you to achieve precise angles and compositions for your shots. - Experiment with budget-friendly props: Look for unique items at thrift stores, fabric shops, and even your own home to create visually appealing scenes. - Embrace color theory: Understand how complementary colors can enhance the visual appeal of your food photos. - Prioritize composition: Use odd numbers, multiples, and strategic placement to guide the viewer's eye through your images. - Enhance food appearance: Techniques like brushing cheese with oil or using thickened syrups can help make your food look fresh and irresistible. - Embrace the "mess": Don't be afraid to capture the natural imperfections and realistic details that make your food photos more approachable. - Practice and trust your intuition: Continuous practice, studying other photographers' work, and having confidence in your own style are key to improving your food photography. If You Loved This Episode… You'll also love Episode 492: Exquisite Food Photography – How to Tell a Story with Lighting, Props, Food and Textures with Murielle Banackissa. Connect with Ashley Freeman Website | Instagram

In episode 653, Meggen Wilson teaches us how to create our own product line to become a profitable business without relying on ad revenue. Meggen Wilson is the founder of Pine and Palm Kitchen, a specialty food company based in Northwest Montana that creates premium, small-batch vanilla and vinegar products using organic, locally sourced ingredients like honey, apples, and spirits. A retired real estate investor and dedicated advocate for Montana's natural habitats, Meggen combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for exceptional culinary craftsmanship. Her products celebrate the land she loves, inspiring home cooks and bakers to create with care and intention. you'll discover how to choose the perfect product for your audience, along with the most effective strategies for manufacturing and selling it. Key points discussed include: - Identify your signature product: Look at your most popular recipes and consider creating a complementary product, like a spice blend or specialty ingredient, to offer your audience. - Test the market first: Start with a cottage license to validate your product idea and gather customer feedback before investing in a commercial license and scaling up. - Leverage your community: Use farmers markets, pop-ups, and local partnerships to test your product and build relationships with your target customers. - Prioritize quality and sourcing: Invest in high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients to create a premium product that reflects your brand's values. - Seek support from local resources: Reach out to your county health department and extension offices - they want to help you succeed as a small food manufacturer. - Control your distribution: Selling directly through your own online store gives you more control over pricing, branding, and the customer experience. - Have a long-term vision: Develop a 5-year plan for your product line and be patient as you build the business - it takes time to get the formula right. Connect with Meggen Wilson Website | Instagram

In this episode, we're going to talk about five powerful antidotes that can help you navigate mental blocks and entrepreneurial challenges as a food blogger. I recently heard someone use the word antidote to describe how they dealt with mental blocks as an entrepreneur, and it stuck with me. I love the idea that there's a remedy—a way to counteract the “poison” of things like overwhelm, self-doubt, and confusion that can suck the life out of us as business owners. In this episode, I'm diving into five powerful antidotes that can help you break free from those struggles that feel impossible to escape. You don't have to stay stuck. If you can identify the “poison” and apply the right antidote, you can move forward with clarity and purpose. Let's talk about how to do just that. Action Plan: 1 -Physical movement is the antidote for rumination. 2 - Air, water, and words is the antidote for confusion. 3 - Gratitude for people is the antidote for feeling underappreciated, undervalued, and unworthy. 4 - Doing one thing is the antidote for a lack of motivation. 5 - Setting boundaries is the antidote for overwhelm. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 650, Megan chats to Amy Roskelley about how a no-spend year changed her life and how we can implement the same strategy to reduce business costs and ultimately make more money. Amy Roskelley is the owner of the online nutrition resource, Health Beet. Health Beet is a resource for nutrition educators and families with a goal to improve their health through diet and exercise. Amy has a bachelor's degree in Community health from BYU and a Masters degree in Business from the University of Utah. Amy's a certified personal trainer, published cookbook author, certified personal chef, NPC Competitor, and marathon runner. In this episode, you'll learn how to identify which tools and services are essential for your business and why saving money now can improve the your life later. Key points discussed include: - Review your expenses regularly: Closely examine your monthly and annual business expenses to identify areas where you can cut costs without negatively impacting your operations. - Prioritize essential tools and services: Determine which software, platforms, and contractors are truly essential to your business, and eliminate or reduce the rest. - Automate and streamline processes: Look for ways to directly integrate tools and eliminate the need for expensive third-party integrations or workarounds. - Focus on content creation first: Before investing in optimization tools or services, ensure you have a solid foundation of high-quality content that resonates with your audience. - Embrace a minimalist mindset: Adopt a simplified approach to your business and personal life, focusing on the essentials and eliminating unnecessary expenses. - Diversify your income streams: Explore opportunities to generate passive income through investments or additional revenue sources, reducing your reliance on a single income stream. - Manage emotional burnout: Recognize the emotional toll that fluctuations in traffic and revenue can have, and develop strategies to maintain a positive mindset. Connect with Amy Roskelley Website | Instagram

In episode 650, Cathy Yoder teaches us how to grow a successful YouTube channel, including why having a niche expertise is essential and how to build a loyal following. Cathy Yoder is a well-regarded figure in the air fryer community, known as "The REAL Air Fryer Queen." She transformed from a reluctant cook, seeking quick ways to feed her large family of eight, into an air fryer expert and successful entrepreneur. Her business, Empowered Cooks, offers practical cooking tips, recipes, and accessories, helping busy families create nutritious meals with ease. Cathy's journey has resonated with countless individuals, with her best-selling cookbook (over 35k copies sold) and YouTube channel (700k+ subscribers), making her a trusted voice in the kitchen. In addition to her air fryer expertise, Cathy also founded Pine & Pepper, a product line of air fryer accessories. Her story, rooted in practicality and family life, has empowered many home cooks. Whether discussing easy meal prep, building a brand, or balancing family and career, Cathy's insights can inspire and provide actionable advice for busy parents and aspiring entrepreneurs. In this episode, you'll learn why you should create a YouTube channel for your food blog, how to film relatable content and the importance of evaluating your content strategy regularly. Key points discussed include: - Start creating YouTube content even if it's not perfect: Don't wait for perfection, just get started and your content will improve over time. - Repurpose existing blog content into YouTube videos: Build a backlog of content by repurposing recipes, tips, and other resources you've already created. - Engage with your audience by responding to comments: Connecting with your viewers, especially when starting out, helps build a strong relationship. - Experiment with different video lengths and formats: Try out various video lengths and styles to see what resonates best with your audience. - Consider live streaming or premiering videos: These interactive features can create a more engaging experience for your viewers. - Continuously evaluate and refine your content strategy: Pay attention to what's working and adjust your approach to better align with your audience's needs. - Patience and commitment are crucial: Growing a successful YouTube channel is a long-term process, so be prepared to invest time and effort consistently. - Leverage your existing expertise and personal journey: Sharing your unique experiences and knowledge can provide valuable and relatable content for your viewers. Guest Details Connect with Cathy Yoder Website | Instagram

In this episode, we're going to talk about five steps to designing a future version of yourself that is energetic, fulfilled, and happy. What does 'Future You' look like? I love this concept of being able to implement new habits and improve the quality of my life, year by year. We probably don't realize how much control we have over our future selves. In fact, we're all constantly shaping our lives through our thoughts, beliefs, habits, and emotions. So what is the problem? We get complacent and stop trying to change. We end up not reaching our potential, but it doesn't have to be that way. We can shake off complacency, step into intentionality, and take control of creating a future version of ourselves that's happy, fulfilled, and thriving. That's what I intend to do in 2025 and here are five easy steps you can follow too. Action Plan: 1 - Design future you on paper. 2 - Display the details of your future self where you can see them daily. 3 - Start allowing the details of your future self to guide your decisions. 4 - Surround yourself with people who support your future you. 5 - Track your progress and adjust as needed. Get in touch with Megan below. Website | Instagram

In episode 648, Megan chats to Jules Grasekamp about how to reframe failure as an opportunity for growth and refining your food blogging business, especially in light of Google traffic loss. Jules Grasekamp is the sweet-toothed Scot behind Bonni Bakery, a dessert blog showing you how to easily create impressive desserts at home. She uses her experience from 10 years of running her own bakery to give detailed recipes packed with expert tips for success to make showstopping desserts and grow your confidence in the kitchen. In this episode, you'll learn how stay positive and embrace unpredictability while overcoming severe challenges, like revenue loss, in your business, as this may lead to new opportunities. Key points discussed include: - Failure is not the end, but a stepping stone: Embrace failures as opportunities to learn, grow, and refine your business. - Be brutally honest with yourself: Critically examine your business to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement. - Have a long-term plan for delegation: Strategize how you can eventually offload tasks you don't enjoy to free up time for what you love. - Consume positive, motivational content: Start your day or week with uplifting podcasts, books, or speakers to maintain a growth mindset. - Actively participate in a supportive community: Attend events and connect with other bloggers to find inspiration, advice, and a sense of belonging. - Embrace the unpredictability of entrepreneurship: Understand that volatility in income and traffic is part of the journey, and focus on the opportunities it presents. - Persist with enthusiasm: Maintain your drive and determination, even when facing failure, as success often comes from stumbling forward with unwavering passion. If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 402: Reach 85k Page Views in 7 Months After 7 Years of Failure with Maren Epstein. Connect with Jules Grasekamp Website | Instagram