Gold Biz Podcast

Black Friday can make or break your year, but only if you do it right. In this episode, we're breaking down how to create a photographer-friendly sale that actually converts (without confusing your clients ).We're diving into:Why marketing to two different audiences sometimes matters—and how to do it without splitting your focusThe “one-offer” rule that simplifies your sale and boosts conversionsHow to run an album sale the smart way (one size, one color, one option—no confusion) Ideas for bundled Black Friday offers that make clients say yes fasterExclusive add-ons that feel high-value but don't add extra workCreative offer ideas like custom giftsWays to collaborate with affiliates or vendor sponsors for extra reach How to use fast-action bonuses to motivate same-day purchasesWhether you're selling digital offers, print products, or photo sessions, this episode will help you design a Black Friday that stands out, sells out, and still feels aligned with your brand.Sponsored by: Pass+ — the all-in-one gallery platform helping photographers deliver, sell, and share their work beautifully.Connect with Rachel:

If you've ever caught yourself thinking, “I'd love to expand my team… but where do I even start?” — this episode is for you.Rachel sits down with Ashley Ebert, founder of The Abundance Group, to unpack what it really means to move from solo hustler to confident leader. Together, they dive into the mindset, systems, and steps behind building a supportive, values-driven team that helps your business (and life) flourish.In this episode, you'll learn:

We're closing out launch week with the systems photographers secretly crave and the kind that don't just “automate,” but lift mental load. Today we unpack the difference between passive admin relief vs cold, impersonal automation and how to create a client experience that feels high-touch while buying you time back.In this episode, you'll learn:What to automate first for the biggest relief + client wow-factorWhy automation helps increase client experience and personal touchEpisode Links

This episode pulls back the curtain on what actually makes a funnel work in the photography industry especially if you don't want a complicated tech stack or “marketer energy.” We talk about how to build a warm pathway from first impression to inquiry to booked so people don't fall through the cracks.In this episode, you'll learn:The biggest mistake photographers make when they think they “don't need a funnel”3 funnel touchpoints you already have that just need refinementWhy funnels help you book better clients, not just more inquiriesThe simplest low-tech funnel to start with this monthEpisode Links

Today we're diving deep into pricing but from the sustainable business perspective. Not the “charge your worth” fluff, but the real framework behind creating pricing that reflects your expertise, your energy, and the lifestyle you're building. If you've ever raised prices and still felt stretched thin, you'll love this breakdown.In this episode, you'll learn:Why profitable pricing starts before you ever market your offersThe mindset shift from “what will people pay?” to “what does this support?”Episode Links

In today's episode of That Photography Girl, we're talking about the moment that makes every photographer's stomach drop: when inquiries slow down and you don't know why. I walk you through the real reasons inquiries dry up (hint: it's rarely because “no one is booking right now”) and what to look for in your marketing so you can course-correct quickly without panic.In this episode, you'll learn:Why slow inquiries are often a messaging issue, not a demand problemShifts to make today Episode Links

In this kickoff episode of That Photography Girl, we're talking about the #1 thing photographers secretly crave: breathing room. We break down five simple passive income paths that help you earn beyond your bookings, without needing to become an influencer or overhaul your business model. If you've ever wished your business could make money even while you're editing, resting, or taking a weekend off, this is your roadmap!Why “passive income” isn't about doing less, it's about shifting how your income is supported5 beginner-friendly revenue streams photographers can start even with a small audienceThe difference between scalable vs passive offers (and why that matters)Which income stream makes the easiest first step depending on your personalityThe mindset shift that turns extra income from “someday” into “now”EPISODE LINKS:

If you've ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes at New York Bridal Fashion Week… this episode spills the tea!!I'm breaking down what the top photographers were doing - the gear, the setups, and the creative choices that caught my eye. Whether you're shooting weddings, fashion, or content, these trends say a lot about where the industry is heading.Listen to hear:Why simplicity is becoming the new luxury in photography setupsHow photographers are blending film + digital for editorial resultsThe rise of hybrid creators capturing both photos and contentAnd my personal takeaways from being there in the middle of it allResources:

If you've been wondering how couples are finding their vendors in 2025, this is the episode you can't skip.I'm joined by SEO expert Sara Does SEO to break down how search is changing with ChatGPT, what brand mentions actually do for your visibility, and how you can start showing up when your dream clients search for photographers online.We dive into:What SEO really means (without the tech overwhelm)How couples are using ChatGPT to find wedding photographersThe difference between backlinks and brand mentionsHow to build authority and get recommended by AI toolsEasy steps you can take today to show up in searchIf you're ready to get off the Instagram hamster wheel and start attracting clients through search, this episode will give you the roadmap.

In this episode, I'm joined by the incredible Vanessa Joy to unpack the biggest money mistakes photographers are making, why so many are underpricing themselves, and how to finally step into higher-end pricing with confidence. We also dive into the untapped marketing strategies that are working right now to book high-end clients, and the CEO mindset shifts you need once you start raising your pricing! We cover:Pricing mistakes photographers make (and how to fix it)Why photographers struggle to confidently raise their ratesThe money habits keeping you stuck at $3K weddingsThe underrated marketing strategy that actually books higher-end weddingsHow to shift from thinking like a photographer to thinking like a CEOIf you're ready to stop undercharging, attract luxury clients, and run your business like the CEO it deserves, this episode is your roadmap!

If you're feeling the pressure to keep up with every new photography trend just to stay relevant, you're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with wedding photographer Lauren Scotti to talk about why you don't need to follow every trend to succeed and how staying true to your own style is the real secret to building a thriving business!We dive into:Why chasing trends can actually hurt your businessHow to confidently lean into your own style (even if it looks different)Communicating your unique approach to clientsHow to stop comparing your work to what's popular on Instagram or TikTokEncouragement for photographers who feel stuck or uninspiredIf you've ever felt like your work isn't “good enough” unless it looks like everyone else's, this conversation will give you the clarity (and confidence!) you need to build a business that feels true to you.

Luxury clients don't fall from the sky—they're built through connection, consistency, and knowing how to show up in the right rooms. ✨In today's episode, I'm joined by the incredible Alyssa Lizarraga, a photographer who has mastered the art of networking and creating authentic connections that lead to high-end bookings. If you've ever wondered how to break into the luxury market, this conversation is packed with gold nuggets you can put into action right away.Here's what we dive into:How Alyssa worked her way into the luxury space (and what photographers often overlook).The role networking plays in building real relationships with planners, vendors, and clients.What high-end planners and clients are actually looking for when hiring photographers.Tangible ways to show up and be remembered in luxury circles.Alyssa's best tips for cultivating long-term, referral-driven connections.Whether you're dreaming of booking $8k+ weddings or simply want to elevate the level of clients you attract, this episode will give you the roadmap!!

In this episode, I'm sharing my exact strategy for consistently selling out my mini-sessions You'll learn:✨ The marketing approach I take✨ How I structure my offers to encourage quick bookings (and upsells!)✨ The key mistakes that keep photographers from selling out✨ Simple shifts that make your minis more profitable and less stressfulAnd because mini sessions can get a little wild without clear boundaries, I'm also sharing my favorite tool that keeps it all smooth and professional - The Legal Paige's Mini Session Contract. It covers everything from late clients, non-refundable fees, venue restrictions, no-shows, and even upselling extra images. Basically, it's the secret to protecting your business while you focus on serving your clients.Whether you're gearing up for fall family minis, holiday sessions, or spring blooms, this episode will give you the confidence and clarity to launch, fill, and protect your sessions with ease and confidence!! Mini-Session contract:https://thelegalpaige.com/?aff=447code: RACHELTR10Create predictable inquiries: https://racheltraxler.com/predictable-inquiries-freebiePhotography Business Coaching:https://racheltraxler.com/passiontoprofit

Photographers, get ready—this episode is a time-saver! ⏱️I sat down with Justin, co-founder of Aftershoot, to talk about how this powerful AI tool is transforming the way photographers cull, edit, and deliver galleries. Whether you're drowning in editing backlog, struggling to keep up with client turnaround times, or just craving a more efficient workflow, this episode is packed with insights.Here's what we cover:The biggest workflow struggles photographers face (and how Aftershoot solves them).A breakdown of Aftershoot's newest features (and how they can save you HOURS each week).Why AI isn't replacing creativity—it's helping photographers get back to what they love most.Real results from photographers who are streamlining their culling, editing, and retouching with Aftershoot.What's coming next for Aftershoot and the future of AI in photography.If you're ready to reclaim your time, focus more on shooting, and spend less time behind the computer, you won't want to miss this one!

If you've ever felt like your marketing is all over the place or like you're showing up online but still not seeing results this episode is your golden road!In today's short + powerful solo episode, Rachel breaks down exactly how to market your photography business using a funnel framework. From top of funnel visibility to bottom of funnel conversions, you'll learn how to structure your content, website, email strategy, and client journey to guide potential clients all the way from “just found you” to “can't wait to work with you.”Whether you're stuck attracting price shoppers or you're ready to refine your systems to book high-end dream clients, this episode will help you finally connect the dots in your marketing strategy.

Ever wonder what happens after a lead fills out your inquiry form? Spoiler: if you're not sending them to a Redirect Workflow™ (my signature process), you're missing out on bookings!!In this episode, I'm breaking down my exact Redirect Workflow™ the exact one I use and teach my students to effortlessly guide potential clients from inquiry to booked. You'll learn:✨ Why your post-inquiry experience is just as important as your marketing✨ The 3 must-have elements of a high-converting redirect page✨ How to set it up so it nurtures, educates, and builds trust on autopilot✨ And why this small shift could be the biggest game-changer for your conversion ratesIf you've been feeling like inquiries ghost you or don't know what to do next, THIS is your episode. Pull up your notes app because you're about to turn your inquiry process into a conversion machine

What would I do if I only had $1,000 to start or completely rebuild my photography business. In this episode, I break down exactly where I'd spend every dollar to create a high-converting, sales-driven photography brand that books clients and grows fast!Whether you're just starting out or looking to reset your strategy, I'm sharing the tools, investments, and mindset shifts that will give you the biggest ROI (without wasting time or money on fluff).If you're ready to stop guessing and start building a business that actually books, this episode is your blueprint.

Hello sunshines! ✨ Today's episode is one you're going to want to take notes on because we're talking all about adding video to your photography business.

Ever wonder what actually makes a client book or walk away?In this episode of The Gold Biz Podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain on two real client scenarios: one that booked and one that didn't. We're breaking down exactly what happened inside the inquiry, the communication, the red flags, the green lights, and what ultimately led to a conversion or a pass.Whether you're struggling with ghosting, trying to improve your booking rate, or just curious about what makes clients click, this episode is packed with raw insights and real takeaways that will shift the way you approach your next inquiry.If you've ever thought “Why didn't they book?” this one's for you.

Named Top Photographer by Martha Stewart Weddings, BRIDES, and Harper's BAZAAR, Liz Banfield joins me to talk about converting your branding into tangible, real-life value

If you've ever wondered how the heck to get consistent referrals from planners (and not just cross your fingers and hope for the best), this episode is for YOU.

we're kicking off the "If I Were You..." series — your go-to for real, honest advice from someone who's been in your shoes.Today, I'm diving into what I would personally do if:I wasn't getting any photography inquiriesI felt invisible online even though I was showing upIf you're a wedding photographer or creative entrepreneur feeling stuck in a slow season or unsure why your content isn't converting, this episode will give you tactical strategies and mindset shifts to break through the noise and get your momentum back.What You'll Learn:The 3 main reasons photographers stop getting inquiries (and how to fix them)Why visibility doesn't always mean virality — and what to focus on insteadHow to audit your online presence to boost conversion and connectionWhere to focus your energy when business feels slowWhat I'd do differently if I were starting from scratch in 2025Perfect for:Wedding photographers, brand photographers, content creators, and service providers looking to get more inquiries, improve visibility, and stop feeling stuck.Resources Mentioned:Apply to my coaching program: https://racheltraxler.com/applyFollow me on Instagram: @racheltraxlerDM me to see how I can help you with my coaching program

If you've ever felt like you're just throwing money at Facebook or Instagram ads and hoping something sticks — this episode is for YOU. I sat down with the founder of Hughes Media, the ad strategist behind countless successful photography campaigns (including mine!), to talk about what actually works when it comes to paid ads for photographers.**use referral code: RACHEL and get one month free!**We're digging into the difference between boosted posts and a real ad strategy, why your ads might not be converting, and how to make sure you're not wasting your budget — especially if you're trying to book high-end clients or grow your bookings fast.Whether you've never touched ads before or you've been frustrated by poor results, this episode breaks it down in a way that's easy to understand and ready to implement.In This Episode, We Cover:The difference between a boosted post vs. a true ad campaignWhat types of ads actually work for photographersWhy so many creatives waste money on ads that don't convertThe #1 mistake photographers make when running their own adsWhat it really takes for ads to work (hint: it's more than just a pretty photo)How to make sure your backend funnel supports your ad spendWhat results you can realistically expect from a good ad strategyWhy working with a niche ad team matters (and how Hughes Media is different)Want help with your ads? Work with Hughes Media: use referral code: RACHEL and get one month free!Join my coaching program for photographers: https://racheltraxler.com/passiontoprofit⁠⁠⁠⁠DM me “ADS” on Instagram @racheltraxler and use referral code: RACHEL and get one month free!Follow Hughes Media on IG: https://www.instagram.com/the_hughesmedia/

If you've ever wondered how to get on a planner's preferred vendor list or why you're not getting referrals from weddings you've already shot — this episode is for you. I'm joined by a luxury wedding planner who's pulling back the curtain on what wedding planners really look for in a photographer, how to collaborate well, and what separates photographers who get repeat referrals from those who don't.We dive into how to build long-term relationships with planners, how to stand out in the high-end wedding market, and mistakes that keep talented photographers from ever getting a second chance.Whether you're new to planner relationships or trying to elevate your brand in the luxury wedding space, this episode is packed with game-changing insights and tangible tipsWhat You'll Learn:What luxury wedding planners actually look for in photographersThe biggest mistakes photographers make when working with plannersHow to create mutually beneficial vendor relationshipsReal examples of what makes a photographer unforgettable to a plannerThe right way to follow up and stay top-of-mind for future referralsHow to stand out with gallery delivery, vendor tagging, and communicationWhat red flags make a planner not want to refer you againLinks + Resources:

Have you ever worried a client might go rogue on social media and try to damage your reputation? Whether it's a one-star review or a full-blown callout post, it's one of the biggest fears for modern photographers and creatives.In this episode of Paige's Corner, our go-to legal expert The Legal Paige dives into the real risks of public defamation in the photography industry — and exactly how you can legally protect yourself with the right contract clauses in place.We cover:What you can (and can't) legally do if a client trashes your business onlineHow to write a social media clause into your contractWhat to say when a client threatens to leave a negative reviewHow to proactively prevent drama before it startsThe importance of reputation management in 2025Whether you're a wedding photographer, videographer, or service-based business owner — this episode will give you peace of mind and the protection you need in today's online world.

Photographers — it's time to get back to the heart of why we started.In today's episode, I'm sharing my honest thoughts on the negativity circulating in the wedding photography industry and why it's time to shift our focus back to serving people with our gifts.You'll hear inspiring stories from other photographers about their favorite parts of being behind the camera — and I'll remind you what truly matters in a world full of noise and comparison.Whether you're feeling burned out, stuck, or just need a reminder of why you love photography, this episode will bring a fresh, positive perspective you didn't even know you needed.

If you've been struggling with inquiries ghosting you, or couples showing interest but never actually booking, you're about to learn the one simple change that can instantly increase your conversion rate.And here's the best part? It takes just a few minutes to set up, but once you do, it's effortlessly working for you on autopilot, guiding your leads toward booking without you lifting a finger.. tune in to hear what I do to help increase conversion adn bookings!

I'm uncovering the hidden sales strategy that will book you more weddings! The real sales process starts BEFORE the inquiry even happens.If you wait until they inquire to start selling, you're already behind.The photographers who book the most weddings don't just “sell” after the inquiry. They're conditioning the lead to book them before they even reach out!

How I got 50+ inquiries in 1 month as a Wedding Photographer. Tune in to learn how you can get more inquiries and convert them into bookings

How to best organize and use your Gallery Delivery program for more passive income, better client experience, and a more elevated business. I've used PASS+ since day 1 and will never switch to anything else!

Here's a brief recap of how my San Diego Photography Retreat went!

Growing your Photography Business through brand evolution and growth. What to focus on first when growing your photography business with Miles Witt Boyer. Tune in to hear what he has to say!

Join my conversation with Mike, and Lauren (known as The Vendor Table) as we talk about our uncensored wedding industry opinions and hot takes!

Get Brand Collaborations as a Photographer. How to find them and what to charge as a Wedding Photographer

Tune in to learn how Creating new lead funnels in your Photography Business will help you with more visibility and lead generation!

Pull up a chair to our table because you're welcome in this honest and candid conversation about the recent Honeybook situation! What are your thoughts?! Share with us! Rachel's IG: https://instagram.com/racheltraxler Alex's IG: https://instagram.com/alexblakephotography

"One time at a wedding, I asked the Bride if she was ready to do the first look with her dad.. but forgot she had a restraining order on him and wasn't invited to the wedding" "sometimes if I forget a clients name, I won't ask what it is at the shoot and just never address them by their name the whole time" LOL. We listen and we don't judge photographer edition episode had some hilarious submissions! Tune in to hear the rest!

Want to gift your clients this holiday weekend but aren't charging enough to have the funds yet? Listen to this episode to hear ways you can gift your clients for free that will elevate the client experience without costing you extra expenses out of pocket.

If you find yourself moving markets or wanting to market to a new area, this episode with Morgan Elizabeth covers some amazing strategies to successfully do that. Tune in to hear the ways to keep clients coming in even while moving!

Black Friday and the Holidays are right around the corner.. do you have your Black Friday marketing campaigns mapped out yet?! Tune in to hear some ideas you can do to get the ball rolling with your holiday sales!

Feeling overwhelmed by constant marketing tasks? In this episode, we're diving into the world of marketing automation and how it can completely transform your photography business. Learn how to set up systems that work for you 24/7, freeing up your time to focus on what you love most—capturing incredible moments. From email sequences to social media scheduling, I'll walk you through the steps to build a marketing engine that never stops. Get ready to automate, elevate, and watch your business grow!

Hello, sunshine! Today's episode I tell you the different types of signature styles and how you can create your own

Hello, sunshine! Today's episode I tell you why you are killing your conversion rates and what to do instead! Tune in to boost your inquiries today!

Hello, sunshine! Today's episode we uncover what it takes to become an in-demand family photographer. From marketing, onboarding, approach to prompting a session, how to nurture and build rapport with your clients! Tune in to boost your inquiries today!

I'M ON ABC'S NEW GAME SHOW CALLED LUCKY 13!!!! This was such a wild experience and I can't wait to share more with you! But in the meantime, tune in Thursday August 29th at 8pm cst to watch live on ABC, or stream it on Hulu! Screenshot you watching the episode and tag me on social media so we can share this experience together as a virtual watch party!!!! https://www.instagram.com/racheltraxler/

Hello, sunshine! Today's episode sheds light on feeling low if you think your bookings are low as well. I talk about not only what to do about it, but how to create a strategy around making it happen as well. Tune in to boost your inquiries today!

Hello, sunshines! Waitlisting your Senior sessions might be the secret to a fully booked and highly in-demand calendar. In this episode, we cover what waitlisting can look like for you, how to market your waitlist when you're not booking, and how you can position demand around it. Tune in to hear Emily's process and how you can start implementing this into your own strategy today!

Hello, sunshines! Today we are breaking down the 3 types of funnels you need in your Photography Business this year. If you can incorporate even at least one of these to start, and then work your way to having all 3 of them.. you'll be golden in gaining more visibility and getting more traction and inquiries in your inbox too! Tune in to learn the 3 funnels and how you can start implementing them into your business this year. ✨HONEYBOOK trial to set up your automations - get 30% off here https://share.honeybook.com/racheltraxler

Hello, sunshines! Don't let your landing page flop. In this episode, I'm sharing my highest converting tips to help you keep an engaged audience, grow your email list, and convert your ideal clients. I share actionable steps for what changes you can make to your landing pages today so you can see results faster!

Hello, sunshines! Today we are exploring strategies to consistently book weddings by focusing on connection-driven lead generation. We go over the importance of systemizing lead generation, staying true to your brand, and avoiding the fear of being 'salesy.' Key points include the significance of networking, growing your email list, increasing brand awareness, leveraging other people's audiences, and systemizing your processes. I share my actionable steps for mastering these systems and adapting to the ever-changing business landscape. Tune in for insights on how to connect with clients authentically and achieve consistent bookings!