Hashtag Authentic - for small businesses, bloggers and online creatives

In this episode I'm chatting with my longtime friend Laura Pashby ( Small Stories with Laura Pashby) - an author, photographer, and creative, who you might also know online as Circle of Pines. Laura shares her journey from a craft blog in 2010 to becoming a published author, and how building an online audience helped her leverage opportunities like brand work, teaching courses, and ultimately, writing her wonderful books.Things we talk about:• Instagram Then vs. Now• Working through ‘platform fatigue'• Maintaining authenticity online• Migrating an audience from one platform to another - or from online to offline• The discipline of a weekly creative writing practice• Prioritising meaningful engagement over viral reach• Charging for your writing, and how Laura built confidence in thisLinks for this episode:Co-writing hour with me this Friday, 2nd May at 11:30am BSTMy Substack Soiree class - enrolling now!Hashtag Authentic Podcast on SubstackLaura's Substack, Small StoriesLaura's InstagramLaura's books, Little Stories of Your Life and Chasing Fog*Laura's websiteThanks for listening! * Connotes affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a purchase is made. Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

This week, I talked with author/photographer/YouTuber/knitwear designer Veronika ‘Kika' Lindberg about her fluid and inspiring journey to success online, and how she's evolved her work along the way. Kika's open-minded and playful approach is so inspiring to me, and I've found myself returning to this conversation in my mind so much since we recorded it.I hope you love hearing from her too! Things we talk about in this episode:* Getting started on Instagram, and how it has changed* Growing a YouTube audience, and how to make video* Why Kika doesn't use Reels or YouTube shorts very much (and why this is ok!)* Pivoting your focus and work, and letting your audience evolve with you* Changing path, and dealing with disappointment when things don't go as planned* The loneliness and challenges of having to run a creative business by yourself* Getting a publishing deal, and the process of writing and sharing knitting patterns* The different revenue streams in Kika's business* Running a business while caring for a baby* Establishing your expertise with your audience* Going with the creative flow in business and in lifeSubscribe for free and get podcast updates directly to your inbox, or upgrade to paid for even more!Links for this episode:* Kika's Instagram, @Kutovakika* Kika's YouTube* Kika's website* Kika's Ravelry* Knit This book* Knits to Wear book* My online classes* My Instagram, @me_and_orla* Substack page for this episode - come and leave a comment!Thanks for listening! Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

This week, I'm chatting to Dr Anita Goraya from ADHD Wellness & Wisdom , GP-turned Psychotherapist who specialises in helping people with ADHD. Both Anita and I have diagnoses of ADHD, so this is a topic close to our hearts, and I hope this warm and compassionate conversation will be helpful whether you're neuro-diverse, awaiting a diagnosis or just interested to know more!Things we talk about in this episode:* Being diagnosed with ADHD later in life* The neuro-developmental nature of ADHD, its hereditary aspects, and some of the common misconceptions people might have* Anita's transition from GP to therapist, and her own diagnosis process* The importance of self-acceptance, leveraging strengths, and scaffolding weaknesses* Practical strategies for managing ADHD symptoms, such as mindfulness, problem-solving, and making use of tools and resources* The emotional impact of ADHD, the potential for neuro-plasticity, and the importance of seeking formal diagnoses and support.Links we mention in this episode:* Anita's Substack ADHD Wellness & Wisdom* Anita's website * Goblin to-do list tool* My Festive Marketing Guide & Planner* My coaching page, where you can book now for 50% extra coaching * Book a Discovery Call with me* My Me & Orla Christmas Cards* My new 2025 M&O photo calendarThanks for listening and following along! Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

This week, I'm chatting to my friend Sarahbeth Larrimore, the wonder-woman behind Unabashed Apparel. The mantra for her work says it all: “Empowering women to design & sew. Our bodies are worthy of our finest frocks, just as they are.” Um, yes please!Sarahbeth and I had a juicy conversation about personal style and the benefits of sewing for self-expression, creativity and body acceptance. I know next to nothing about sewing, but by the end of this episode Sarahbeth had me completely convinced I should start stitching my own wardrobe - and I bet you'll feel the same!Things we talk about in this episode:* How sewing and clothing design can be empowering in unexpected ways* Sarahbeth's Queen Robe Project (enrolling now!), and how anyone can learn to sew* The differences between historical garments and modern made clothes* How clothes impact our body image and self worth* The role of sewing and mending for sustainability and customisation* My collection of vintage French under-dresses, and my upcoming collection of them for sale* The stories our clothes can tell about us as they age and changeLinks we mention in this episode:* Sarahbeth's Instagram* Sarahbeth's Queen Robe Project (enrolling now!)* Sarahbeth's post on mending, and sustainable fashion* Sarahbeth's Website, Unabashed Apparel* Sarahbeth's Substack* My upcoming collection of vintage French nightdresses* My coaching page, where you can book now for January availabilityThanks for listening and following along! Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

This is a republished episode from In today's episode we dive into listener questions all about Instagram - from building engagement up, feeling hopeful and excited about the platform again, coming back after a long break, adapting to creating more video content, whether to use hashtags anymore and lots more.Join Sara for her Instagram Summer School Class starts on Monday, the 29th, so you need to be quick. Would you love some encouragement and support in your business? Submit your letter for an upcoming episode here.More from SaraMore from Jen Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

I first met through my class, The Insta Retreat, quite a few years ago, and we've worked together ever since. Sarah is a mental health nurse and CBT therapist with over 10 years of experience in private practice. Through her mentoring and coaching services, she supports other therapists in setting up and growing their private practices. Sarah struggled with the lack of a business plan and structure in her private practice, leading to dissatisfaction and confusion, and wanted to help others so they don't have to feel the same way.Her book, A Therapist's Guide to Private Practice: Building a Values-based Business, is out this week (Happy publication week, Sarah

I first met deep-dive master coach Katie Pulsifer when she was my instructor for certification at The Life Coach School. I recall being pretty intimidated. I've never been sky-diving or tried a bungee jump, but I'm pretty sure the adrenaline rush is comparable to coaching in front of Katie for immediate feedback in front of a group.

I'm sharing something a little different today… the results of my ‘podcast affair' with my Aussie bestie, the gorgeous Ms . Bonded over our love of storytelling and creativity, Keeley and I and came together to create - a gathering of resources, classes and a shiny new podcast, in the hope of passing some of that passion along.I chose this very first episode to share here with you on Hashtag Authentic because I really think the fundamentals we talk through - which we're jokingly calling our ‘commandments' - are applicable to every and any platform out there online. So, whether you're Substack-curious, have no intention of ever joining Substack or are a self-confessed Substa-holic, I hope this episode can offer you support, strength and encouragement for showing your creative side online.If you want to hear more from me and Keeley, be sure to Subscribe to and to the SSS podcast in your favourite podcast app.PS - Our special Winter Substack class is now enrolling, until Monday November 27th! Check out all the details on how you can join us here. Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

This week I talk to Katie Leamon, who turned her love of paper and pattern into her eponymous family-run stationery studio. Her notebooks have been a daily companion to me for many years, so it was really fun to chat with her about her designs, her process and the realities behind running a product-lead business with the family on board!Things we talk about:* Building from a home studio to printing and selling at scale* Designing products based on creative instinct* The rise of independent stationery makers and designers online* Selling wholesale vs. direct* Family business, and drawing the the lines between work and home life.* Taking time for creativity outside of work* Growing a team, and when to let things go* Katie's new experiments in creating ceramic range * Launch strategies and learning from mistakes* Trusting your brand identity and staying authenticLinks we mentioned:* My Substack Soiree class* Katie's online store, Katie Leamon * Katie's new ceramic range (I LOVE THIS CUP!)Listened and loved it? Let us know what you think in the comments below! Get full access to Entre Nous at meandorla.substack.com/subscribe

Find Hannah's 4 Week Refresh Programme here Hannah's Instagram: @hanbullivantHannah's website: hannahbullivant.com Sara's Instagram: Sara's Substack:Sara's classes and coaching:Sara's website:

Things we talked about:The way multi-faceted careers can feel piecemeal (especially if parenting is added into the mix), or “like I'm doing five different jobs at once”Factoring in time to play as well as workExploring your home town like a holiday destinationTaking things home from real holidays that you might not expect (like appreciating the simple things, family meals, all your possessions in one suitcase)Avoiding habits of consuming everything and creating nothingMaking connections on Twitter (Lisa says, “I engage with people because I love it”)Pondering the idea that the Internet means we don't get bored any more, and what that meansOn making things happen (Lisa was waiting for a radio job offer but it didn't come, so she started a podcast)“People say you're brave putting yourself out there, but I'm more afraid of not doing it”The importance of perseverance, and regularly doing the thing you fear (until you don't fear it any more)We had a frank conversation about money. Despite living an outwardly glamorous life, Lisa says, “I don't earn enough”Becoming an “accidental landlady”: her unexpected foray into property investment to build financial securityWe talked about the way women often hide our realities, keeping everything from messy kitchens to miscarriage behind closed doorsEverything has to start with just two views. Even the most viral video of all time had only two views at some point.And finally, the possibly-surprising-but-then-probably-not location that Lisa chose when I asked her about her favourite place in the whole worldWhere to find Lisa:On Twitter she's @lfnandOn Instagram she's @lisafrancesca_nand and @thebigtravelpodcastHer podcast: The Big Travel PodcastThe meditation app Sara mentioned:Waking UpWhere to find Sara:Sara on SubstackSara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara's charity Christmas cardsMe and Orla 2023 CalendarSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaOne to one business coaching with SaraThe Insta Retreat

Things We Talk About In This Episode:Working with clients in the creative process and their reactions.How as humans we respond to visuals in a human way. Narratives that make it seem shallow to care about how things look. Like it's superficial to care too much about the way you look and that this might mean you don't have depth.Aesthetics are a luxury that comes after the essentials of survival and how you can still care about aesthetics, even if the first priority is survival.Creating worlds on Instagram for an escape, or for an imaginary world to exist in.Growing up in a third-world country and living without running water. Living and growing up in a country where safety isn't guaranteed and that these things stay with you.That where we start is not always a reflection of where we're going to end up.The importance of the client's story, understanding and connecting with them.Taking lessons from pain. Looking for good and having empathy.Struggling with seeing our own magic and the stories we tell ourselves.Behind the scenes of Sell Your Sh*t, and how the coaching and lessons had an impact on Susan.Learning that our experiences of life are not always everyone else's experiences. That our normal isn't everyone's experience.How Susan joined Instagram as a way to communicate her journey. That starting to share and mingle with people helped her to feel it's safe to share online.That Instagram gives us chance to take small baby steps into being seen or into vulnerability.How being in the spotlight can mean you lose the sense of freedom with your account.That Instagram can be like therapy, that the discoveries that come as a result of being in the spotlight can help you to understand what you want. It makes you confront a lot of the stuff that's hiding under the surface.How people can reject your work but not reject you, and how we can get this confused, something that's covered in Sell Your Sh*t.Starting a business on Instagram and running a product business.How preparing and getting ready is more about feeling ready, and how this is a process.Learning about yourself and how your messages connect with other people is something you can't rush.Designing your brand from the inside out, so you can finally stop tweaking your brand. Challenging the there's one right way theory.  Links mentioned in this episode (and where to find Susan):Sell Your Sh*tSusan product lineSusan youtubeJoin Susan's Email listWhy you need to join Substack with Farah StoreWhere to find Susan:Susan's website: bysusanmar.comSusan on Instagram: by.susan.marSusan on Youtube: by Susan MarSusan's Email List & Freebies: choose-your-own-journeyWhere to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaSara on Substack: meandorla.substack.comOne to one business coaching with SaraSell Your Sh*t - enroling now

Things We Talk About In This Episode:The importance that established news organisations find ways to use social media if they want to engage a young audienceTikTok has redefined the experience of social media, with short video content, and Instagram Reels and Youtube Shorts have followed suitHow Sophia found an audience on TikTok (and later on Instagram Reels) by talking to camera about her media storiesThe way we can gain insights into what makes a successful social media post by being a user of the platformThe importance of constant engagement on social media, both creating and consuming contentAcknowledging the fear and vulnerability that can come with being authentic and genuine onlineSophia's tips for successful TikTok/Reel content: action or engaging content in every second, and lead with your most powerful image/shot/quote)Comparing the strengths and drawbacks of the different platforms, especially Reels and TikTokWhen creating Reels content or TikTok content, share that content on both platforms so you'll meet both audiencesWhen it comes to sharing your opinions online, having a sense of purpose goes a long way towards building your confidenceHow Sophia has been promoting her book: reposting user content from her book launch on Instagram, a big thread on Twitter, traditional media appearances, and weekly TikTok videos (interspersed with other content so she doesn't “spam” her audience)The challenges of Internet (and especially social media) censorship with any content relating to sex or sexual healthLinks mentioned in this episode (and where to find Sophia):Editing apps that help you create Reels or TikToks:SpliceTemplateCap Cut on Apple, and on GoogleHere's where to find and chat with Sophia:Sophia on Twitter: @sophiasgalerSophia on TikTok: @sophiasmithgalerSophia's book, Losing It: Sex Education for the 21st CenturyWhere to find Sara:The Insta Retreat  - Currently on Pre SaleSell Your Sh*t - Currently on Pre SaleSara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaOne to one business coaching with Sara

Things we talked about:The value of owning your own audienceBuilding a brand for yourself around the work you're doingThe growing online hunger for content by real people and the forging of real connectionsWe seem to be entering an era that Farrah calls, rather poetically, "the Time of the Writer": the world has passed the period of devouring all the content on the Internet, now we are more discerning, and only want to consume content that we genuinely enjoyThe continued return of demand for long-form contentThe return of community: the value of hearing from and engaging with your audienceGiving your best work away from free (yes!)The limitations of the stories that can be told in traditional mediaAnd related, the limitations of creating content when you're in competition for followers or clicksWhen you try to appeal to the masses, you bland outFarrah's tips for what works well on Substack:Niching works well. The more you niche, the more dedicated (as opposed to big) an audience you'll getPublishing twice a week tends to grow a "stickier" audienceUse social media to point people to your Substack contentUse your "About" page to set expectations and declare a manifestoClaim your real name, if you canWhere to find Farrah:Farrah's Substack platform, "Things Worth Knowing"Farrah on Instagram (for dog pictures and Substack information)Where to find Sara:Sara on SubstackSara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaOne to one business coaching with SaraThe Insta Retreat 

Where to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaSara on SubstackThe Insta RetreatSell Your Sh*tOne to one business coaching with Sara

Things We Talk About In This Episode:The many ways for a book to “be successful” that don't involve writing a New York Times bestseller (who knew?!)Lockdown lessons, and learning to live with uncertaintyThe surprising weight and reliance that we put on the future, without realising we're doing itThe “ladder of hierarchies” through which we try (and mostly fail) to feel better about ourselvesLearning to enjoy the process of making something, more than the reception it receivesDrinking the Kool-Aid of never-ending work, productivity, and demonising rest (and this pearl of wisdom: even machines burn out!)And the related delusion we buy into, “I've put enough into the world that now I feel worthy”Shame in its many forms, and diet cultureUsing self-worth as an alternative motivator to shameHow to drop the shame (the first step is to start noticing it)Curiosity is the bridge that can take us from shame to self-loveAnd the freedom and curiosity that comes when we finally drop the shameLinks mentioned in this episode (and where to find Jamie):Radically Content is available from 12 April 2022, and can be ordered (or pre-ordered if you're reading this before 12 April) hereJamie's websiteJamie's online course on self-trust, “Live with Intention”Here's where to find and chat with Jamie in your favourite app:Jamie on Instagram @jamievaronJamie on Twitter @jamievaronJamie on Tiktok @jamievaronJamie on Facebook @jamievaronWhere to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaOne to one business coaching with SaraThe Insta RetreatSell Your Sh*t

Things We Talk About In This Episode:Recognising the power of what's possible when people come together with a common goalThe value of creating your own, distraction-free destination for group learning and supportEmpowering creators to place higher value on the important business, community and content they are making - rather than being driven solely by the pursuit of money and influenceThe importance of community, particularly when we are forging new paths (or making things up as we go along). Gina says, “the single best place to make things up as you go along is in a small, trusted community of people who are there on the same journey”The important difference between “community” as opposed to audience, following or marketplaceThe great value of having diversity within a likeminded group is in the different and interesting ways that community members apply the common conceptsThe “fluff paradox” (the theory that content that is easy to judge - such as kittens or outrage - rises to the surface)How content and course creators can now market themselves less on formal qualifications or years of experience, and more on how they make ideas and skills accessible to people who can't yet do the thing we're teachingThat networking is increasingly moving towards safe, trusted, creator-led online communities, which in turn is transforming in-person conferences and events less into “networking meet-ups” and more into reunions, with the capacity for deeper connectionsHow I use Mighty Networks to create community and support the members of my own 15 Minute Magic programPricing your services and wares, and in particular understanding that people value and pay attention to the things they pay for (a difficult concept to remember when our own self-doubt tells us to keep our prices low or give things away for free)Gina's top tips for building and facilitating a new community: 1. Fear of failure is the biggest challenge most people face, something we all need to recognise and overcome2. Go for quality rather than quantity in numbers of members3. Don't get bogged down creating content: focus on creating results for your community4. Remember that community is about all members adding value to one another, not you preaching to an audience (“I'm not a sage on the stage, I'm on the side as a guide”)Links mentioned in this episode:Find Gina in the Mighty Network hosts communityFollow her on Twitter at @ginabThe Mighty Networks platformInformation on my 15 Minute Magic programWhere to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaOne to one business coaching with SaraThe Insta Retreat

Things we talked about:Trusting that you have enough, you are enough and that there'll be enough in the future and how that applies to you as a humanDecluttering and finding your own style, starting with the external and slowly moving inBeing diagnosed with cancer at 25 and having an existential crisis that kick-started a big lifestyle changeJess's realisation that if the worst happened she would have had so many regrets, that the situation shone a light on ways she was living her lifeThe fundamentals of doing stuff well online don't really change depending on the platform, it's about having something worth saying, being a human and connectingWe have access to all these amazing people online and we can feel like, finally, there's somewhere where we do belong, that you can share actual feelings and emotions with people over the internetBuilding relationships with people that you wouldn't otherwise and connecting with like-minded souls that typicallyWe are what we consume, so having a huge de-clutter of social media is a good thingMinimalism and simplifying life comes down to learning how to use the word no and how that can be really hardIntentional use of social media through asking yourself how you feel about it and taking action to make it work for youPeople's perception that we have to be perfect online and that showing any sign of weakness or difficulties is going to turn people off or mean they are no longer be interested in usWhen it comes to sharing online people don't connect with perfectionism like they do with pain or being broken because that's real, that we're all broken and we're all in pain and that being honest and open leads to deeper connectionsShowing up online as you is the key to a consistent online presence, the energy that we put into something transfers to the other person, they can feel it in your work,That we have so much to learn about vulnerability, fear of not being liked can lead to us not showing up as ourselvesHow it's all an experiment, that taking small steps makes being more us easierThat you end up being so bland if you try to please everyone and how it's so dishonest to yourself as a human to deny you likes and dislikes - don't be like white rice!How validation can be good especially if you haven't received much in your life, as it helps build confidenceLearning to use the word no, that it's about choice and that both paths are available to youThat we're told we're not enough by media and society, and that we can stop, ask a few questions, try be a bit braver, try be a bit more intentionalSustainability, that the planet can't sustain our need to buy things to make us feel better, that it's not happiness but fulfilment that's important and it's about asking ourselves the difficult questions to reach itThe freedom to explore and experience the good and the bad of life and how we miss out on the full experience if we are living by the rules we have been toldThat we are working too hard, that people are struggling with the expectations and are going to the doctor to get medication to keep up, that it's broken, the fact that people are working themself sickEnough is a decision, it's a choice we get to makeMy IG live with the Good Ship IllustrationJessica's IG live book launch Where to find Jessica Rose Williams online:You can buy her book hereYou'll find her @jessicarosewilliams on InstagramOn Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/c/JessicaRoseWilliamsAnd on her websiteWhere to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaOne to one business coaching with SaraThe Insta Retreat is currently open for enrolment

Things we talked about:How it still doesn't feel quite normal to call herself a full-time artist and how that's something a lot of us struggle withGrowing up with a parent who's an artist, the expectations that brings and how that comparison can make creating art feel overwhelmingFinding your own path, however varied and wherever it takes youThe feeling of not being good enough, how it can hold you back and the judgements we make of our own workHow posting on Instagram helped Maria to believe in her work and grow in confidence, that sometimes we need the outside world to tell us we're doing a good jobThat throwing yourself into your passions can lead to burnout, especially when making career changes and having other responsibilities and that recovery can be slow and frustratingHow burnout shows up and that working with your body can be hard especially in our brains and the guilt that comes with itThat naps are part of the creative process, taking time away from your creative process feeds itMaria's watercolour course, which has run twice and is open for enrolment at the moment, it covers the technical side of things as well as your mindset when producing workHow people have art supplies they are saving because they are afraid to use them and how people expect to be either creative or not, when actually it's a skill that can be developedThat we can feel not worthy of using the fancy art supplies or that we're waiting, but what are we waiting for?The journeys we go on to become good at the things we do, the hours we spend practising and the impactHow Maria's audience likes unexpected pieces of her work, that what you want to create and post and what your audience wants are two different things and how easy it would be to only create what people love but how that can be a trapThat maybe Maria's art would be different if she was paid for painting and not for a piece of art, how if it didn't have to be marketable it might be different? And how that's hard to knowHow people can feel like an imposter, usually if they have had a different job and found or come back to the thing they're doing now, they want to take it seriously but they don't think they're allowed to and that technical skill can be the route of thisSome people self-sabotage by talking quietly about their work, how we shouldn't be afraid to share about yourself because people want to know the person behind the postWhat's the big deal? If an Instagram post doesn't work then no one will see it so what's the problem with sharing it?How art changes over a lifetime, how it transforms into something new and that that's a good thing as you may do this for the rest of your life so if it stayed the same it would be terribleAnd that life can give you the perfect training, even if at the time you don't realise it.Where to find ... online:Maria's websiteMaria's Instagram @mariawiggeartMaris's course  Creating Boldly Use code ”MEANDORLA” for a 20% discountYou'll find her Pinterest here And here's Episode 84, when Maria was last on the podcastWhere to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orlaSara on Twitter: @meandorlaThe Insta Retreat is currently open for enrolmentOne to one business coaching with SaraSara mentions her new programme Sell Your Shit. It's coming soon - sign up to find out when here

Things we talked about:The difference between writing as a journalist and writing a book (it's just so long!)But: you only get to publish your first book once! Accept the nerves, and appreciate the momentThe ever-present contention and push-back received when one writes about raceNatalie's very wise words that reaction is the point of writing - and those reactions don't have to be positive every timeThe value of the interviews in her book, and how she found and chose the right people to talk toSome of the stories and themes that came out of the interviews that surprised herThe unique experiences that people of mixed race have when they walk through the world, and the impact this has on identity, parenting, privilege, and the experience of racismParenting mixed race children (avoiding “colour-blindness” and those fetishised hashtags on social media)How white parents can open dialogues that empower their mixed race children to talk about racismThe value of social media in creating connections, sharing ideas, and giving voice to minorities who are not always heard on mainstream platformsBut on the flip side, the deeply disturbing fetishisation of mixed race people - particularly mixed babies - and “blackfishing” trends (changing your appearance through make-up and hair to appear as though you have black heritage)And Natalie's rallying call to allies: “We need you to still care. We need that energy you had in the summer.”Where to find Natalie online:Natalie's book, Mixed/OtherNatalie is @nmozz on TwitterAnd also @nmozz on InstagramYou'll find her writing on metro.co.uk, in the lifestyle sectionAnd here's the Guardian article I mentioned, "Why celebrating mixed race beauty has its problematic side"Where to find Sara:The Insta Retreat - My tell-all, best selling course for Instagram creatives and business owners One to one business coaching with Sara TaskerSara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orla

Things we talked about:The trials and tribulations of being a “goat doula”Her new book Earthed, and its journey from concept, through to the transformation it underwent while she was writing, due to pressures from within (mental health) and without (a pandemic)How she actually managed to get it written, with all this going onThe challenges and joys of writing autobiographicallyWe dug into the need to be honest with ourselves about how we want our lives to look… and to recognise the good stuff in there, even if reality doesn't match the fantasyAnd about lessons learned about life in pandemic times: acknowledge the difficult stuff, but don't give up on your dreamsWe talked about the process of being diagnosed with ADHD (both of us), and how those diagnoses changed our lives – in many cases for the betterThe fear of not being taken seriously by your GPThe way the lifestyles we choose can be – subconsciously – self-medicationRebecca talked about following the things that interested her, even if that meant changing careers, and finding herself subconsciously being drawn to a life that fed what she neededAnd (this is a big one, I think), we talked about loving your brain! Loving the way it works, and the things it can do, regardless of whether or not it conforms with the way society says “all” brains should workThe importance of nature – and simple connections with animals – in keeping us grounded and helping us both give and receive unconditional loveWhere to find Rebecca online:Rebecca's book Earthed, which came out in May this yearHer website: www.rebeccaschiller.co.ukFind Rebecca on Instagram: @rebecca.schillerWhere to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orla

Each week in the insta retreat we have 2 calls - one with a business/IG focus, and one like this, for mindset issues. Find out more and join in the fun at The Insta Retreat

Things we talked about:Why so many of us feel suspicious about new technologies, and how we can change the narrativeThe way artificial intelligence (AI) reads and interprets our interests and activities in order to deliver content to us… and the impact that content can have on usApproaching social media mindfully, by noticing the impact certain content has on our moods and behaviours, and carefully curating what we choose to consumeThe difference between active and passive behaviour on social mediaTechnologies (other than social media) that Becca is loving… and thinking outside the box for ways in which technologies can improve our livesThe often-fraught topic of addictions, in relation to using our devices and social mediaThoughts about influencers and unhealthy comparisonsBecca shared her top tips for healthy ways to live with technologyAnd finally, I asked Becca to share what she would like the landscape of technology to look like in 10 yearsThe Insta Retreat - My tell all, best selling course for Instagram creatives and business owners.Where to find Becca online: Becca's new book, Screen Time (https://www.waterstones.com/book/screen-time/becca-caddy/9781788704212)Becca's website: beccacaddy.comBecca on Twitter: @beccacaddy (https://twitter.com/beccacaddy)Becca on Instagram: @beccacaddy (https://www.instagram.com/beccacaddy/) Where to find Sara:Sara's website: meandorla.co.ukSara on Instagram: @me_and_orla

Things we talked about:Allowing ourselves to feel good when things actually go wellThe synchronicity of things happening when they're supposed to (and when you're ready)Defining success for ourselves (and it's not always what we assume it might be)How lockdown taught Katherine to create her own “sense of safety” following the success of her book, by creating courses to shore up her incomeFinding ways to own your own story, message and brandHow Katherine's approach to Instagram evolved from “sharing pictures” to “telling stories”Katherine's experience of coming back from “an anxious pattern of behaviour” around social mediaThe quiet activism in the premise of Katherine's book, Wintering, which is all about periods of life in which we feel cut off from the rest of the worldNot always having to be “on” and “up.” As Katherine says, “The vision of us being always up discounts useful wonderful things like thinking, reflecting…”How we've all learned things about ourselves during lockdown, and the way our priorities (and what we are willing to accept) have changedBeing diagnosed as autistic, quite late in life, allowed Katherine to make the personal changes she needed: “How to meet my own needs, rather than how to solve me”The experience of living life as a neurodivergent personFinding your right people online (if you lose followers after sharing your true self, then you've lost the right followers - you don't want them)And this piece of wisdom from Katherine, for anyone who identifies with our “neurodivergent” conversation: "Your identification is yours. It doesn't need the approval of a doctor or your mum.”The Insta Retreat - My tell all, best selling course for Instagram creatives and business owners.Where to find Katherine online:Katherine's website, katherine-may.com [https://katherine-may.co.uk] where you will also find her booksKatherine on Twitter: @_katherine_may_ [https://twitter.com/_katherine_may_]Katherine on Instagram: @katherinemay_ [https://www.instagram.com/katherinemay_/]Katherine's podcast, The Wintering Sessions [https://katherine-may.co.uk/winteringsessions]The True Stories Writing School [https://www.truestorieswritingschool.com], home of Katherine's online coursesBooks we mention in this episode:Wintering: the power of rest and retreat in difficult times [https://bookshop.org/books/wintering-the-power-of-rest-and-retreat-in-difficult-times/9780593189481]Electricity of Every Living Thing: a woman's walk in the wild to find her way home [https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-electricity-of-every-living-thing-a-woman-s-walk-in-the-wild-to-find-her-way-home/9781409172512]The 52 Seductions [https://uk.bookshop.org/books/the-52-seductions/9780755362530]Where to find Sarameandorla.co.ukInstagram - @me_and_orlaMy website designer - stories studio

WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT Anna and I discuss the difference between the business of writing, and the writing of writingThe fear that so many of us feel of showing up, and putting ourselves out there or “being seen to try”. Anna says this is “straight-up embarrassment,” and we feel this way whenever we step outside the norm (even if we are embarrassed for positive reasons, like receiving a compliment)But in addition to this, she says that what holds us back, post-pandemic, is “very low emotional reserves.” All of us have a lower baseline of resilience which makes pitching scarier, and rejection harder to takeRecognising when you're in burnout (and remembering that you don't have to have all the answers before you're allowed to help anyone else!)Defining freelancing and the many roles that freelancers need to play. Learning to be both boss and employee, and knowing when to shift between these modesSeeking a balance between working ON the business versus IN the business. Anna says she spends 20 percent of her time actually writing… but she's working on increasing this!The bonkers (Anna's word but I wholeheartedly agree!) system that rewards creative people for doing a good job by making them managers - a completely different skill-set and a role that a lot of creative people don't actually aspire to take onWorking with people in your business from a place of collaboration, rather than managementGetting comfortable with sales (and moving on from the door-to-door salesman stereotype)“Dirty capitalism” versus “clean capitalism” (in other words, the conflict-that-shouldn't-be-a-conflict of doing the right thing while also making money) LINKS WE MENTIONEDAnna's book, “You're the Business: How to Build a Successful Career When You Strike Out Alone”My first chat with Anna, on “Life Lessons for Freelancers” -The book Anna mentions, “A World Without Email: Reimagining Work in an Age of Communication Overload” by Cal NewportThe quote I was trying to remember is attributed to Ellevest co-founder and former Citigroup CFO Sallie Krawcheck, who said, “About the most powerful thing you can do to help a society and economy is get more money in the hands of women.” Hear hear! WHERE TO FIND ANNA ONLINE Anna's podcast, Is this working?  Which she co-hosts with Tiffany PhilippouAnna on Twitter (she's @annacod)

Sally is joining me for weekly bonus coaching calls in my upcoming Insta Retreat class. Enrol now at meandorla.co.ukSally’s free program, “stop people pleasing in 5 days”Sally's WebsiteThe Life Coach SchoolSally's Instagram @sallyhardie_coachMy Instagram

If you want to know more about my tell all Instagram class The Insta Retreat follow this linkTo read my companion blog post 'What the F is up with Instagram Hashtags?' follow this link  

WHAT WE TALK ABOUT* The often-underestimated importance of being “politely persistent”* Starting a blog and Instagram before you become an expert (practising in public), as a way to find clients after you graduate* The way Kimberly used Instagram not only as a photography portfolio but also as a way to train her writing voice ahead of writing her book, alongside her blog writing* The value of receiving immediate feedback on Instagram to hone our marketing skills: we immediately learn what works and what doesn’t, based on people’s responses* A burgeoning shift of women taking up space and creating businesses, that is reshaping our ideas of what it is to be a leader, what a CEO is, and what “sales and marketing” should look like* The historic under-valuing of creativity in the mainstream, and particularly in business (creativity is not perceived as productivity, and productivity is how we measure our worth), and how creative people (often women) are forging important changes to that attitude* Kimberly’s fabulous words, like a rallying cry, which someone needs to put on Pinterest! “Creativity is joy. Creativity is being alive.”* The highs and lows of pitching a book to publishers and agents (and recovering from rejection)* Using our public platforms to hold ourself accountable to pursuing our creative dreams* The awful summer of 2020, and Kimberly’s personal and professional turning point after reading the rather grim statistics around the number of women of colour who get book deals, and what they get paid…* The importance of investing in ourselves (even to putting our money where our mouths are!)* The nuts and bolts of self-publishing… beautifully (and being the CEO of your book)* Kimberly’s advice for anyone who is seeking the courage to follow their dreams LINKSMy Instagram class The Insta Retreat* Kimberly’s Instagram, @thelittleplantation * Her book, Creative Food Photography * Her podcast, Eat, Capture, Share * Kimberly’s blog, with lots of resources on self publishing and food photography * Sara’s podcast interview with Fiona Humberstone * For self-publishers, Kimberly recommends The Book Launch Show podcast with Tim Grahl* More about Clubhouse, a live, audio social media app, currently invitation only 

Links mentioned in this episode:Ida on TikTok Ida on Instagram Ida on YoutubeIda’s lumberjack TikTok Clubhouse My Instagram Class, The Insta Retreat Me on Instagram – @me_and_orlaTimes for our Clubhouse chat16:00 GMT11:00 AM EST08:00 AM PST04:00 AM Sydney    

Things We Talk About In This Episode:Multi-layered, multi-hyphenated careers and what to call yourself if you’re asked at a partyBeing led by curiosity, the value of deep-dive research, and the joy of starting something newMel’s early career in the not-for-profit charity sector, and the turning point she reached that led her to galvanise a group of volunteers and ultimately, to co-create Freedom Acts, a not-for-profit group aimed at ending modern slaveryHow pregnancy can be an impetus for both creativity and personal rebellionDoing something new, how to “be a learner at every stage,” and how to get things done despite feeling totally unqualifiedPivoting careers, self-doubt and self-worth wobbles when it comes to moving from charitable work to for-profit work, the desire to “do good,” and the realisation that roles, and work, can be “both-and” rather than “either-or”Finding your ‘ideal community’ on Instagram, and building space to make that community part of your offline lifeStarting an “accidental business”Allowing your values to drive your business, or the work you do in the worldThe inner work that goes into making peace with charging for your services, skills and timeThat women need to have more stakes and autonomy in economics, finance and making money… and that we are to be trustedNavigating the world of online influenceThe concept of being influential as an improvement (what it means to be “improvingly influential”)Mel’s research into what people consistently find “influential” in both social and personal contexts (three core pillars of intuition, integrity, and impact)The value of finding and maintaining our own personal boundaries when sharing onlineThe very human desire to “be seen” - and giving ourselves permission to admit this and pursue itLinks mentioned in this episode:Mel’s websiteMel’s business, AssemblyMel on Instagram, @melwigginsFreedom ActsSara’s podcast episode “Using Instagram for Charity Fundraising, with Creating for Good”Sara’s story in Stylist magazine: “How becoming the breadwinner changed my relationship with my husband”Tara Mohr (coach and author)

Things I Talk About In This Episode:The evolving trends of InstagramHow our fears and doubts stay the same, no matter how the platform evolvesThe risks and costs of buying too heavily into one trendWhy I'm always wary of one-size-fits-all solutions onlineThe importance of staying connected to your own creative vision and voiceHow to use trends for growth without getting blown off-pathThe importance of building meaningful connections with your audience/customersLinks mentioned in this episode:My InstagramMy Insta Retreat ClassAn example of my window photosMy Vodafone Business Story My upcoming Lunch N Learn session in growing your Instagram, with Vodafone Business UK and Enterprise Nation

Things We Talk About In This Episode:The world changed between the time Skye wrote this book and when it was published. We talk about how she faced the challenge of publishing a book about feeding the people you love, when you’re not allowed to be with them. (Spoiler alert: being apart from the people we love makes us value those times we do have together, even more)The creative ways we have responded to lockdown, finding unique (safe) ways to gather, and cooking with limited ingredientsHow lockdown is impacting our children, but not necessarily in the same way that it is affecting usThe positive ways in which lockdown encourages us to pause for meals and enjoy eating togetherReady-chopped onions!The difference between simply cooking to one recipe, versus pulling an entire meal togetherHow truly universal food can be (“everyone eats - if we don’t, we die!”) and the myriad cultural, historical and aspirational elements we bring to our cooking that make it so very personalHow to set up two kitchens in two different countriesOur guilty food confessionsAnd the market for someone to invent a ready-made choux pastry!Links mentioned in this episode:Skye’s new book, A Table for FriendsSkye’s first book, A Table in VeniceHive online (where Skye suggests you can buy her book - and others - while supporting independent sellers)Skye on Instagram: @skyemcalpineSkye’s range of tableware for AnthropologieMe on Instagram - @me_and_orla 

Things We Talk About In This Episode:The business idea that grew out of Maressa’s own creative slumpHow important it is to value creativity (Maressa says it’s the uniqueness that makes us human) even if the people around us - and society in general - don’t recognise the valueThe challenge of finding the balance on Instagram (and elsewhere) between “what I want to share” and “what people want”Developing an Instagram account that creates space for you to be a whole person, and that can evolve alongside your interestsHow talking to camera on video became a way for Maressa to make her content more accessible to people with visual and hearing disabilitiesThe way in which Maressa uses her platform to talk about anti-racism, in a way that started out from a need to share and evolved into a process of very personal and vulnerable educationTalking to our children about racism (“we need to see colour in order to see privilege”)Maressa’s Patreon space: why she started it, how she structures it, and how creating a paid space enabled Maressa to start valuing herself, and helped members of her community likewise value themselvesThe difference between consciously selling, versus sharing with genuine excitement about what we are doingParenting and creativity, and how Maressa models the creative life to her childrenLinks mentioned in this episode:Maressa on Instagram: @maressamadeMareesa’s Patreon communityMaressa's Maker Affirmations seriesSome of Maressa's Anti Racism videos: here, here and hereNova Reid's HA podcast episode “Anti-Racism Work for Well-Meaning Liberals”Nova Reid's InstagramThe Insta Retreat

Things We Talk About In This Episode:Why you don't need a huge audience online to be successfulHow to get organic reach on Instagram without having to pay for adsPhotography for Instagram, and how it differs from conventional photographyPivoting your business, and why it pays to put yourself at the heart of your brandThe difference between being a freelancer and an entrepreneur/business ownerPromoting a book during lockdown, and the unexpected benefits of “marketing for introverts” when almost everything has to happen onlineHow the workplace might look on the other side of COVIDCaring for your mental health as a freelancer, and recognising that mental health goes beyond mindsetRelaxing the idea of rigid timetables, and embracing routines that work for our health and happinessThe value of having a person outside our situation, such as a coach, help us recognise and overcome our limiting beliefsManaging your finances, including building a financial buffer, pricing yourself, planning for holidays, and avoiding the limitations of exchanging time for moneyFiona’s experience delivering a donation-based course, giving away content, and the balance of making support and content accessible to all, while still running a profitable businessLinks mentioned in this episode:Tickets to Fiona's virtual Book Launch with me, October 1st 2020Fiona's podcast, "Out of Office"Her book “Out of Office” on AmazonHer Instagram: @fionalikestoblogFiona's website, fionalikestoblog.com Her Twitter profile, @fionalikesOur first podcast episode together, here on Hashtag AuthenticMy Instagram Class, The Insta Retreat 

Things I Talk About In This Episode:Why we get tempted to make something new instead of doubling down on selling what we've already createdWhat to do when you think you've run out of marketing ideasWhy our brains like to keep us from doing things that are newThe benefits of creating and selling a long-term productLessons learned from maintaining a bestselling online class for 4+ yearsThe difference between when your product is the problem vs when it's your marketing or offerLinks mentioned in this episode:My Insta Retreat ClassMy InstagramMy Twitter 

Things We Talk About In This Episode:Nova's career path through acting, singing and psychotherapy, and how she came to anti-racism workNova's wedding blog and the lack of diversity in the wedding industryNova's work educating white people about white supremacyThe boundaries and safeguards Nova has to put in place due to the trauma of her workThe origins of racism and white supremacy in the UK and beyondWhy we need to do the work personally, and not just put the blame of white supremacy on big institutionsThe practical work we need to take to dismantle white supremacy togetherWhy silence is so dangerous, and how the powerful majority needs to step upWhy Nova believes holding compassion is vital to facilitate changeScrewing up on your anti-racism journey, and accepting feedback along the wayHow the current political turmoil might be a necessary catalyst for changeHow relating racism to feminism can help some people begin to understand the workNova's personal healing journey, and how trauma can be carried through generationsWhy Nova won't be doing this work long term (so grab your chance to work with her now!)Links mentioned in this episode:Nova's websiteNova's new podcast, Conversations With Nova ReidNova's Instagram @novareidofficialNova's @novareidofficNova's excellent anti-racism courses for individuals and small businessesNova's TED talk - "How you have the power to change the world"Nova's Courageous Courage Class for alliesCourageous Courage for BME womenNova's "pick my brain" consultancy sessionsThe Bridge Retreat

Things We Talk About In This Episode:What's great, and not-so-great, about conventional art educationThe balance between profitability and individuality, and where mainstream advice often goes wrongCreating an online class for the first time, and building a mailing listWhy it's so hard, and so important to get to grips with your own creative voiceThe magic of imperfection in all thingsLinks mentioned in this episode:The Good Ship IllustrationHelen StephensKatie ChappellTania Willis

Things we talk about in this episode:Why being truly indistractable isn't really the aim“A mistake repeated more than once is a decision” ― Paulo CoelhoWhy your goal should be growth, not perfectionWhy we can't rely on willpower and self controlThe antidote to impulsivenessHow time-boxing your calendar gives you freedomWhy we can't blame our phones for our distractionHow to stay indistractable when spending time with our kids (even when it's boring!)The power of changing our thinking from 'have too' to 'choose too'The tyranny of the to-do listBeing indistractable with ADHDHow to keep to a schedule, even when we don't want toGetting started on a taskWhy accountability is key to staying focusedHow to turn distraction into laser sharp focusLinks mentioned in this episode:The Flock Community - get notifiedMy 15 Minute Magic Class - enrolling nowMy Instagram, Twitter and websiteNir's previous conversation on Hashtag Authentic (episode 82)Nir's Instagram and TwitterNir's book, Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your LifeNir's website, Nir & FarHooked, Nir's first bookNir's free schedule makerFocusmate  accountability partners

Things we talk about in this episode:Women for Women's #MessageForMySister campaignHow Angelica started About Time Magazine and built her readershipHow the title survives online when so many others have foldedFinding mentors, and how sometimes the best mentors can be people you've never metThe value of meeting fellow entrepreneurs and creative business ownersHow the difference in experience affects the terms used for women in businessWhy true entrepreneur spirit doesn't need to look like Richard BransonApproaching business with 'playful curiosity', and why joy is vital in what you seek to establishAngelica's upcoming bookStarting a business straight out of UniversityThe need for women-only events, and why wellbeing and business should both be on the agendaThe challenges of establishing and organising a large eventDeveloping the skills to run a teamAngelica's advice for someone just starting outLinks mentioned in this episode:#Messagetomysister from Women for WomenAbout Time Magazine#SheStartedIt Live (13-14 March 2020)Angelica's Instagram @jellymalinAngelica's Twitter @jellymalinYou're not Listening - Kate MurphyMoody Month - App15 Minute Magic - enrolling this monthMy Instagram, Twitter and website

Things we talk about in this episode:Rachael's new book - The Telephone Box LibraryThe need for 'comfort reading' and gentle entertainment in a difficult worldWhy women's fiction is so important, and the power of a quiet message in accessible formSocial media as a force for goodWhy feeling uncomfortable about what you share can be a good thingThe power of finding your 'inner American' for self confidenceCreativity and courageProcrastination, and lessons from 15 Minute Magic Living with Autism and ADHD as an adult, and as a parent of neurodiverse childrenRachel's young adult fiction novel with an autistic protagonist - The State of GraceReal self-care and why self advocacy can be so difficultOur book giveaway - enter on Rachael's Instagram by 3/2/20Links mentioned in this episode:Kelsey's Instagram @kelseymechKelsey's website and upcoming anxiety programRachael's websiteRachaels Instagram @rachaellucasRachael's Twitter @karaminaThe Telephone Box LibraryThe State of GraceRosie Curtis (Rachael's other pen name)15 Minute MagicEpisode 23 with Tara MohrMy Instagram, Twitter and websiteMy Insta Retreat class, enrolling now!

Things we talk about in this episode:The fears that stop us sharing our creative workMaria's journey from making art in her house that nobody saw, to sharing and selling full timeWhat Maria gained from The InstaretreatThe power of a nurturing communityMaria's plans for online teachingInstagram's ALT text featureAdding captions to Instagram Stories & IGTV videosWhy the Instagram algorithm sometimes seems to hates youBusiness accounts vs Personal accounts on InstagramWays to visually showcase a product without being repetitiveWays to visually showcase expertise when you don't have a portfolioBio-links and link trees for InstagramHashtags on Instagram, and why they don't always help on every postWays I've updated my Instagram class, The InstaretreatLinks mentioned in this episode:Maria's websiteMaria's Instagram @mariawiggeartMy Instagram, Twitter and websiteMy Insta Retreat class, enrolling soon

Things we talk about in this episode:What journalists and content creators can learn from one anotherThe power of engagement of numbersThe content creator/journalist/freelancer as a brandManaging your public versus private selfThe positives of being more 'reachable' in today's media/content realmAnna's newsletter, how she developed and grew it, and how it now pays her revenueThe freelance mindsetWhy having a key message and consistency is essential for freelancersWhy you haven't missed the boat if you want to set out as a content creatorAnna's Fair Pay for Freelancers campaignLinks mentioned in this episode:The Professional Freelancer - Anna's newsletterAnna's Twitter - @annacodAnna's Instagram - @annacodAnna's website#FairPayForFreelancersAnna's podcast - Is This Working?Dolly AldertonTiffany PhilippouSubstackSian Meades-WilliamsKat MolesworthLetters From a Hopeful Creative podcastMy Instagram and  TwitterMy Insta Retreat class, enrolling soon!Sign up to join my new free community, The Flock 

Things we talk about in this episode:Developing good habits around tech, and managing existing bad habitsDistraction vs tractionForethought vs impulse, and how the two interactHow procrastination and distraction interlinkWhy to do lists are generally unhelpfulThe magic of 'timeboxing'The importance of translating your values into timeUsing scheduling for relaxation time as well as work activity, so you don't have to feel guiltyThe truth about multitaskingWhy seeking happiness all the time trips us up, and we need to allow discomfortRaising indistractable kids, with healthy habits around technologyLinks mentioned in this episode:Nir's Instagram and TwitterNir's newest book, Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your LifeNir's website, Nir & FarAtomic Habits, Nir's previous bookNir's free schedule makerThe Full Focus PlannerBrooke CastilloForest AppMy Instagram and  TwitterMy free 15 Minute daily activity prompts for online businessesMy 15 Minute Magic program

Things we talk about in this episode:How Sophie built her online business from a personal blogLife in rural Australia - farming, drought and lots of long drives!Writing her book, A Basket By the Door, and teaching herself photographyThe power of Instagram for rural producers and product based businesses - especially when you're geographically isolatedFinding the beauty in the mundaneWhy there's space for everyone on the internet, and how to find yoursWhy you need to 'put your shoes by the door'The power of workshops for bringing people togetherStarting her new podcast seriesLinks mentioned in this episode:Poignant Presents from M.O.S.S, plus Syreeta and Rob's online storeSophie's instagram @locallovelySophie's blog local is lovelySophie's book A Basket by the DoorSophie's podcast/workshop/ecourse My Open KitchenTessa Kiros, Amiko Davies, Luisa Brimble, Beth KirbyDispatch to a Friend podcast Hashtag Authentic Ep 74 with Annabelle Hickson (Dispatch from a Friend)My book on photography and Instagram, Hashtag AuthenticMy InstagramMy TwitterMy monthly Hashtag Newsletter for Instagram

Things I talk about in this episode:Episode sponsor, Olympus and the new PEN E-PL10 cameraGet 20% off in the Olympus webshop with code SARA20Your customer pathway, and where Instagram sits on itThe '7 touchpoint' customer ruleNot putting all our eggs in one social media basket]Why relying on only one platform makes sales harderWhy images are still (and will always be) keyThe power of Visual IdentityPictures and symbols for communicationRepurposing contentWhy we all stopped using other platforms - and need to start againHow to show up where your customers areHow to create a cohesive strategy across all your social platformsLinks mentioned in this episode:The Olympus PEN E-PL10. Get 20% off with code SARA20My post on the Olympus PEN vs the iPhone cameraMy 15 Minute Magic program, for procrastinating business ownersLetters From a Hopeful Creative podcastJen Carrington's bridge metaphor - The Bridges To Your IslandMy Christmas tree photo on InstagramMy monthly Twitter chat (back next month!)My book on photography and Instagram, Hashtag AuthenticMy PinterestDoxdirect online printing Creative Market, for mock up imagesMy free 15 Minute Magic prompt cardsMy InstagramMy TwitterMy monthly Hashtag Newsletter for InstagramThe Insta Retreat  - my bestselling class for InstagramMy tweet that generated a ton of pressBrooke Castillo

Things we talk about in this episode:Old school vs new style InstagramInstagram as therapyHow to know what is or isn't too vulnerable to put onlineEJ's experience of sharing his trans journey on InstagramInstagram's anti-bullying and moderation featuresThe dangers of chasing likesControlling your 'inner toddler' instinctsTaking Instagram breaksHow EJ landed his job as a BBC presenterEJ's reflections on sharing his cancer diagnosisLinks mentioned in this episode:EJ's Instagram - @hatchetandbear/@ej_osbourneEJ's Website - Hatchet And BearEJ's Twitter - @HatchetAndBearEJ's BBC TV work - Money for NothingMy Instagram word block list postMy new 15 Minute Magic ProgramMy Twitter - @meandorlaMy Instagram - @me_and_orla

Things we talk about in this episode:Jameisha’s video creation processThe realities of living with a chronic illness, and the importance of awarenessJameisha's experience of getting a diagnosis of LupusThe pros and cons of being your own “google doctor”Racism and conscious/unconscious bias in the health care systemHow colonialism still shapes medical biasHow to advocate for yourself when seeking a diagnosis when you're not being heardThe strength of online support communitiesHow You Look Okay To Me came aboutHow Jameisha stays connected to her drive to create dispute illnessHow chronic illness can shape your career for better and worseThe pitfalls and benefits of being honest and vulnerable about your health onlineLinks mentioned in this episode:Website - You Look Okay To MeInstagram - @youlookokaytomeTwitter - @YouLookOkayToMeYoutubeFacebookJameisha’s personal InstagramJameisha’s personal TwitterLupusPOTSBenenden Health InsuranceMy new 15 Minute Magic ProgramMy Twitter - @meandorlaMy Instagram - @me_and_orla

Things I talk about in this episode:Getting stuck in passive action - reading books, buying courses, but never doing the workWhy I made my new 15 Minute Magic programWhy you're not lazy, and procrastination is much more common than we thinkWhy 'willpower' is never enoughHow resistance is always here for a reason, and how to unpick it"You can't change your mind with your own mind"Headings for worksheet: 1. The thing you want to be doing. 2. What's the feeling? (check the graphic). 3. What's the thought? 4. What would you advise to somebody else?Feelings and thoughts disguised as factsWhy too much flexible time is bad for productivityWhy scheduling automatically increases actionHow fear is responsible for a lot of our procrastinationWeaponising self doubt and using action to disprove our fearsFree downloadable prompt cardsLinks mentioned in this episode:My new 15 Minute Magic ProgramFree downloadable prompt cards and worksheet My Twitter - @meandorlaMy Instagram - @me_and_orlaPlutchik's wheel of feelings (the emotions graphic I mention)Letters from a Hopeful Creative

Things we talk about in this episode:How playing the algorithm and customer pleasing game too well can lead us off our true pathBuilding a business with Addisons disease, and working with chronic illnessMaking successful sales through Not On The Highstreet and other third party platformsWhy six figure turnover doesn't always equal high profitsHow to evaluate whether your business is making you happyPivoting your businessWhy Jane is  'anti amazon prime' and encourages slow and mindful salesOffering free shipping, yay or nay?The importance of community, both on and offlineWhy big Instagram numbers don't also equal lots of salesBuilding a membership communityInvesting in professional business coaching supportStaying on the right path for your heart and your businessLinks mentioned in this episode:Jane's Website  - snapdragonlife.comJanes's instagram - @snapdragon.lifeJane's Facebook community Jen Carrington Kate Ferris - simple and seasonMy Twitter - @meandorlaMy Instagram - @me_and_orlaMy website 

Things we talk about in this episode:How Fiona found blogging as a way to improve her mental healthFiona's book and podcastThe positive power of social media for mental helthWhy the friends and communities you make on social media matterWhy diet culture sucksHow to maintain a healthy relationship with the internetWhy your self worth and status should not be defind by your job or levels of productivityHow finding you creative outlet can help your mental healthCreative flow state, and why creativity takes many different formsThe dangers of toxic positivityLinks mentioned in this episode:Fiona's book - Depression in a Digital Age: The Highs and Lows of PerfectionismFiona's blog - fionalikestoblog.comFiona and Amy Holland'spodcast - Positive People PodcastFiona's instagram - @fionalikestoblogFiona's twitter - @fionalikesMy Twitter - @meandorlaMy Instagram - @me_and_orlaMy website Laura Thomas- Hashtag Authentic Episode The Forrest App Jen CarringtonI Can Cards - adults, children

Things we talk about in this episode:Annabelle's journey to becoming an accidental floristThe pitfalls of renovating an old houseThe joy of engaging in the nature around youCreativity and 'dignity in the doing'Finding beauty in the mundaneUsing real life experiences to connect with your audienceAnnabelle's podcast, and the challenges of public speaking when you're really more of a writerBeing a 'webtrovert' (an introvert who blossoms online)Forming real friendships through social mediaManaging self-criticismLinks mentioned in this episode:Annabelle's book - A Tree in the House: Flowers for your home, special occasions and every day*Annabelle and Gillian's podcast - Dispatch to a FriendGillian Bell's instagram - @gillianbellcakeFiona Pickles Instagram - @firenzaflowers The Moth SnowstormLit Up podcastEmily DickinsonMy Open KitchenMy Instagram - @me_and_orla