Inspire to Engage

Customer interviews. Most business owners overlook this gold mine, and it's right at their finger tips. Literally. This treasure trove is just a phone call away. It's amazing what we can learn about our business in a 10 minute phone chat with a loyal customer. This episode is about the why, the how and the questions to ask when you interview your best clients. In it, I include... my tip for scheduling the calls that will keep you from pulling out your hair. a template for your email initiating the customer interview. the questions to ask. how this short chat provides you tons of great content for social media posts, emails, etc. Most of us spend hours and days, even months, pondering our next business move or wondering if our copy resonates with customers...when we could be spending a few minutes on the phone, learning from our most loyal clients. Customer interviews save you time and worry in the long run! Links Mentioned in the Episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1idrrM8C5SRYTHafddf2tEDeVcjAsl8RCiqranaduDaU/edit?usp=sharing (Google Doc for Email Template and Questions to Ask) Creating an Ideal Customer Story (a short course that helps you identify and write to your ideal customer) - https://inspire-to-engage-courses.thinkific.com/courses/creating-an-ideal-customer-story (inspiretoengage.com/onlinecourses)

Are you familiar with Upwork? If yes - awesome! If not, no worries! I learned of Upwork about 10 months. Since then, I've realized the power that little app has to grow my business...and, perhaps, yours too. In this episode, my friend and terrific guest, Carly Cheton, teaches us the 4 things we must have to be successful on Upwork. (FYI - She's gotten so good at Upwork that the jobs come to her now! Oh yeah!!) And although Upwork is typically for freelance service providers, Carly's advice is ideal for product businesses too. If you must write profiles to join wholesale websites, business membership groups, etc., then this episode is a must. Carly even goes into mindset and how not to "grip" at every job. (I love this part of our chat!) She also talks about pricing yourself on Upwork and how and why to make your profile about those you serve, not about you. It's an awesome episode full of advice for Upwork. But the best part? Carly's suggestions apply to all platforms where we're asked to describe our businesses and how they help. Enjoy! To learn more about Carly Cheton and her program Getting Your First Client: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlycheton/ (Carly Cheton) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/carlycheton/ (@carlycheton) To get Creating an Ideal Customer Story: Click https://inspire-to-engage-courses.thinkific.com/courses/creating-an-ideal-customer-story (here.) To learn about my done-for-you services: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/copywriting-services (Copywriting Services)

Many of us small business owners think of sales as a gift - you're either naturally good at selling or you're not. And, if you're not one of the lucky ones, well, poor you. That's not what Natasha Hemmingway thinks, though. She's a sales coach to small business owners. Natasha teaches what she learned in corporate sales (over a decade of experience!) to small business owners who are clamoring to feel more confident on sales calls and to have a system for getting leads. This episode runs the gamut - from "selling with heart not hustle" to commission breath (this one made me laugh out loud!) to the shaking head test to knowing your lead pipeline. We cover a lot! Natasha is intelligent, passionate and oh so funny! She'll make you laugh + learn. Enjoy this episode! To learn more about Natasha Hemmingway: website (https://natashahemmingway.com/ (natashahemmingway.com)) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/natashahemmingway/ (@natashahemmingway)) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/natashahemmingwayspeaks/ (@natashahemmingwayspeaks)) YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCJZIV8fnCDGmQjwlj9vhdA (Natasha Hemmingway)) More Episodes about Sales episode 20 with Sarah Mae Dickinson episode 44 with Jamie Clauss To purchase "Creating an Ideal Customer Story" https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Hmmm...should I create a Facebook Group? What about a podcast? Or maybe a YouTube channel? The avenues to grow a loyal community are almost too many to count...which leads to overwhelm. Confusion. Indecision. In this episode, I interview Randy Lee, a self-professed serial entrepreneur. He began his first Facebook group in 2014 and recently started a YouTube channel. And, yes, he has a podcast that's growing like crazy. He knows how to build a community. And, more importantly, he's honest about the hard work it requires and the plain ole "trial and error" that it takes. If you've considered a podcast or delving into video or wondering the merits of starting a Facebook group, this episode is perfect for you. (Plus, Randy's a funny man. Humor is always a great addition to any episode.) Enjoy! More about Randy Lee: Website: http://www.flippingenius.com/ (flippingenius.com) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqUS22WTBfcRm9olZsgdnWA (youtube.com/channel/UCqUS22WTBfcRm9olZsgdnWA) Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2M72JO5clWSzd0sJ9kUkIz (Flipping Genius on Spotify) Email: flippingquestions@gmail.com Where to Find "Creating an Ideal Customer Story" online course:https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses ( inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

As business owners, we clutch our products and services tightly against our chests...so afraid to hire help or confused on where to even start hiring. The problem with clinging to our businesses so tightly - they'll never grow. This episode is with Emily Perron, a hiring consultant and recruiter for entrepreneurs. After leaving her corporate job, she started her own entrepreneurial journey and quickly burned out. Emily knew there had to be a better way to run a business! From that tough lesson came her business today, one that helps other entrepreneurs make smart hiring choices. Our chat covers topics like... to hire a freelancer...or an employee what to include in a job posting and where to post how to set realistic expectations for a new hire steps to being a good manager of people At some point, every business owner dreams of growing bigger, of making more money, of taking a vacation (or just a day to yourself!). Hiring the right people makes these things happen. Enjoy! To learn more about Emily... website - https://www.emilyperron.com/ (emilyperron.com) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/emily.perron/ (@emily.perron) video on mistakes to avoid when writing job posts - https://www.instagram.com/p/CMAVB2UFBdH/ (on IGTV) and her Instagram account on March 4, 2021 to get the job posting template - https://www.emilyperron.com/jobpostingtemplate (emilyperron.com/jobpostingtemplate) To purchase Creating an Ideal Customer Story - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

We think we can do it all. But...can we really?! And, are we hurting our bodies and our productivity with the “sleep when I'm dead” mindset? In this episode with Dana Stone, we talk about sleep, batching tasks and bedtime routines, plus so much more. Like, for example, did you know that poor digestion and stomach troubles can be traced to exhaustion?  Dana Stone is a life coach with a background in sleep coaching. She's also a mama juggling motherhood and a business (and trying to rest some along the way!).  If you're looking to be more productive in your business, while still caring for yourself and others, this episode is for you.  To learn more about Dana, visit… her website at https://liveandrest.com/ (liveandrest.com) her Instagram account https://www.instagram.com/thedanastone/ (@thedanastone) To learn more about my course Creating an Ideal Customer Story, visit... https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Ever had a great product or service but couldn't get people to purchase it? If your answer is "yes," that makes you normal. It's common in business, but not something we want to happen for long. This episode will help you look at your product/service differently. It's about positioning - putting your product or service in a context that your ideal customer understands and, better yet, wants and needs. April Dunford is my guest expert She's spent years in the tech world helping companies understand their products from the customer's standpoint. In this episode, April shares what question we should all ask ourselves to start positioning our product/service correctly. Plus, she talks about saying no to customers (and how that has actually grown her business and referrals). April may come from a tech and engineering background, but she has a knack for making the conversation fun and the lessons easy. Enjoy! For more about April Dunford: https://www.aprildunford.com/ (aprildunford.com) For more about her book, Obviously Awesome: https://www.aprildunford.com/obviously-awesome (aprildunford.com/obviously-awesome) For my online course, Creating an Ideal Customer Story: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Question - Were you born an entrepreneur? (Honestly, I wasn't. It's something I've grown into.) Ericka Edwards was! But even with her natural abilities and mindset, 2020 wasn't easy. She's a lash specialist and permanent makeup artist. So, obviously, the 2020 pandemic made it tough for her business. This episode is about what she learned from 2020 and is using to thrive in 2021. She's inspiring, kind and humble - definitely a gal you want to call a friend and mentor. At the end of the episode, I share ways we all can use her 3 big takeaways from 2020 and apply them to our businesses...like right now. I give tips about being a guest on podcasts, how to use your instinct in a good way and why our perfectionism is holding you (and me) back. Ericka's a mom, a wife, a business woman and an all around go-getter. You don't want to miss her insights in this episode! More info on Ericka Edwards: website - https://www.lash-belle.com/ (lash-belle.com) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lashbelle_/ (@lashbelle_) Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lashbellehsv (@lashbellehsv) More about my course Creating an Ideal Customer Story: link - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Do you love Instagram? Perplexed by it? Can't stand it? There for All. Of. It?! No matter your feelings on The IG, most of us use it for business because we know our people are there. In this episode, Molly Marshall GETS REAL about Instagram. No promises of gaining a 1,000 followers a day or only selling in the DM's. (If you're looking for "hacks," this episode is not for you. Just real talk of using this platform on a consistent basis.) Towards the end of our chat, Molly talks about the "should-ing" disease, which cracks me up. But, she's right! It's an ailment many of us suffer from with social media platforms (well, with anything really). If you're ready for honest talk about Instagram, this episode is for you. More info on Molly: website - https://mollymarshallmarketing.com/ (mollymarshallmarketing.com) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mollymarshallmarketing/ (@mollymarshallmarketing) My course: Creating an Ideal Customer Story - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/online-courses) More about Skylar Scott Studios: website - https://www.skylarscottstudios.com/ (www.skylarscottstudios.com) Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/skylarscottstudios (@skylarscottstudios)

Do you struggle to talk about pricing? Do you offer your clients the cheapest option? Do you feel guilty to talk about your most expensive package? If so, this episode is for you, my dear. (Really, this one is for any small business owner because we all want to make more money.) My guest Jamie Clauss is a pro at sales. What she puts down, you're gonna wanna pick up! In this chat, she shares so many tidbits about your perspective on sales - ones that lead to big mindset shifts. Here's one - You're too expensive at any price! (Yep. You know that price that you lost money on and a customer still said it was too expensive.) Here's another - Offering the cheapest option is like saying how can I serve you the least. Jamie is full of these reality checks, business knowledge and real-life examples. You don't want to miss this episode. Enjoy! To learn more about Jamie Clauss and her business consulting: https://www.jamieclauss.com/ (www.jamieclauss.com) To learn more about Creating an Ideal Customer Story, the online course: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Truthfully, the New Year can be overwhelming. The possibilities are wonderful...but also stifling. Newness is terrific...but wears off quickly. The pressure to tackle the new year full force leaves some of us exhausted and sad. This episode is about choosing one word for the new year because, well, it seems doable. Not overwhelming. Not crushing. For this episode, I invited my dear friend April Coleman to share her one word for 2021. She was my first friend to talk about the one word strategy with me several years ago. So, I invited her to discuss this practice and how she's greeting the new year. April's a mom, wife, educator, mompreneur and so much more. This episode is full of real talk and, hopefully, encouragement for you. Enjoy. And go get'em in 2021. To learn more about April and her business, Created Resources, visit here: Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/createdresources/ (@createdresources ) Website - https://www.createdresources.com/ (www.createdresources.com) For the one year Bible reading plans she mentioned: Get this free app: Capstone Church - Tuscaloosa. (The reading plan is inside it.) Or, visit this website - https://shereadstruth.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/SRT-BIAY_PRINTABLE.pdf (She Reads Truth) For the online course called Creating an Ideal Customer: Visit here - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Whew! 2020, you've done a number on us! But, we've survived! This episode is about analyzing how your business did in 2020 and then prepping for 2021. Do you enjoy reflecting? Planning? Personally, I don't. Analyzing numbers from the past year makes me antsy and frustrated. So for this episode, I invited back my friend and sales coach Sarah Mae Dickinson. She pushes me - and you, by virtue of listening - to ask ourselves the tough questions. By taking time to answer these questions, to analyze 2020 and to plan for 2021, we'll feel more in control, and we'll know steps for moving forward. I hope this episode helps. (Just so you know - I think you're amazing! I've watched small business owners like you work harder than ever before. That's saying something because you already worked like a maniac! Way to survive 2020!) To learn more about Sarah Mae Dickinson, visit her website (https://www.sarahmaedickinson.com/ (https://www.sarahmaedickinson.com/)) or her Instagram account (https://www.instagram.com/smdcoaching/ (@smdcoaching)). (To learn more about my course, Creating an Ideal Customer Story, visit this link. https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses))

It's the month of Thanksgiving! But 2020 sure has thrown us all for a loop, to put it mildly. This episode is with my sweet friends Amy Boyle and Deanna Mason. Both are business owners, and both have made big changes in their businesses this year. We talk about how they adapted their businesses in this crazy time, what things they're most thankful for and what triumphs they've seen others have. It's an episode about choosing to be thankful in these wild, sometimes devastating times. Hopefully, this episode is a blessing to you and that you find things in your business to be thankful for too. More about Amy and Deanna - Amy Boyle - https://gracegirlbeads.com/ (https://gracegirlbeads.com/) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/shopgracegirlhuntsville/ (@shopgracegirlbeadshuntsville)) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/gracegirlbeads (@gracegirlbeads)) Deanna Mason - https://deannamason.com/ (https://deannamason.com/ ) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/refreshedmoms/ (@refreshedmoms)) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/refreshedmomswithdeanna (@refreshedmomswithdeanna)) To find Creating an Ideal Customer Story - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Oh, the subject line. It's the gateway to your email. How do you write it so someone wants to click on your email...when there are 40 others sitting in the inbox wanting to be opened too? In this episode, I look at 4 common emails (and their subject lines!) that small business owners write - sales/urgency, deliverables, newsletter and nuture/onboarding. I share tips for writing great subject lines and also give examples of subject lines for the most common kinds of emails. It's an episode created help you step up your email game! Enjoy. >> sites mentioned in this episode: https://sendcheckit.com/email-subject-line-tester (sendcheckit.com) https://prospect.io/blog/455-email-spam-trigger-words-avoid-2018/ (455 Spam Trigger Words) https://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6307/bid/30684/the-ultimate-list-of-email-spam-trigger-words.aspx (The Ultimate List of Spam Trigger Words) >> course mentioned in this episode Creating an Ideal Customer Story at https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Product pages - We all have questions about them. How many words should they have? Is SEO important? What about keywords? What's a good load time? Should I do alt text for images? Plus more! On this episode, I've called in the experts to help. Michela, Ren and Tim are from Cake Commerce, a marketing agency based in Madison, Connecticut that specializes in e-commerce businesses. Boy, do they have a lot of expertise to share (and graciously do in our chat)! I challenge you to take one of their suggestions and apply it today. And, of course, then choose another. :) Enjoy! To learn more about Cake Commerce, visit https://www.instagram.com/cakecommerceagency/ (Instagram), https://www.facebook.com/cakecommerceagency/ (Facebook) and its website at https://cakecommerce.com/ (cakecommerce.com) This episode's sponsor: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (Creating an Ideal Customer Story )

In this Halloween edition, I tackle a scary topic...telling stories from your own life to market your business better. Truthfully, there's not much "Halloween" in this episode. But, I do hear often from my clients that they are afraid - spooked - to write about their own lives. They wonder, "Who wants to really hear this?" Or, my clients say, "People will laugh or think I'm dumb." It's because of these fears that I decided to create this episode. In it, I define the two kinds of stories we can tell as business owners. (And, there's one of your stories you should be telling OFTEN!) I also outline criteria for when - or if - to tell personal stories. Oh, and I give a few tricks for storytelling too. (Sadly, many of us actually do descriptive writing when we think we're telling a good story. I'm guilty.) I hope this episode encourages you to use stories to market your business. People mentioned in this episode: https://www.instagram.com/anniefdowns/ (Annie F. Downs) (on Insta) and https://www.anniefdowns.com/ (her website ) https://www.instagram.com/kindrahall/ (Kindra Hall) (on Insta) and https://www.storiesthatstick.com/ (her book Stories That Stick) My course, https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (Creating an Ideal Customer Story), for getting clear on the client you serve and how

What holds you back when writing for your business? Poor punctuation? The dread of writing? Not knowing what to say? Writing but getting no response? Ugh! So many business owners let things like these keep them from communicating with customers (and potential ones). But, let's charge ahead. Let's not keep our ideal clients waiting. Let's help them buy from us, and your writing can do just that! In this episode, I delve into 3 mistakes we often make when writing for our businesses. BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY, I outline ways we can improve or shift our mindsets. Below are the 3 mindsets I see most often and ones addressed in this episode. You talk about your business in ways that only you - the owner - care about. You lack purpose when you write. (Hint: "I need to post," is NOT a purpose for writing.) You allow poor punctuation, spelling or vocabulary to stop you from writing. Believe me...I've learned to combat these mindsets the hard way. I hope my suggestions help you. This episode's sponsor, SMD Coaching, is found at https://www.sarahmaedickinson.com/ (https://www.sarahmaedickinson.com/) Find the slides mentioned in this episode at https://www.inspiretoengage.com/blog/episode37 (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/blog/episode37)

Okay, this episode has it all! From when Erin almost lost her business due to Etsy issues to her 3-lever system for revenue growth, we cover a lot of topics. You don't want to miss this conversation with Erin Hooley, the founder of Bailey's Blossoms. She started her infant and toddler clothing line in her garage and now has a 25, 000 square-foot warehouse. (Yes, I know you're jealous of the storage!) To say she's grown the business is an understatement. In this episode, we talk about how she and her small team bounced back from a huge setback and how she's prepping her e-commerce site for holiday shoppers. Warning, you'll need paper and pencil (or smartphone) for notes. Enjoy! To learn more about Erin Hooley and Bailey's Blossoms, head to: https://www.instagram.com/baileysblossoms/?hl=en (Instagram), https://www.facebook.com/baileysblossoms (Facebook) and the website at https://www.baileysblossoms.com (https://www.baileysblossoms.com) To learn more about Creating the Ideal Customer Story, head here: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Are you ready for holiday shoppers? With the uncertainty of 2020, it's best to go into this season prepared. Control what you can control (and planning is one of those things). In this episode, Stacy Hamner and I talk about what's on her to-do list to prep her brick and mortar store for the holiday rush. Stacy's the owner of Reclaimed Spirit, a lifestyle boutique, in Florence, AL. It's a great episode full of practical advice and one you don't want to miss! To learn more about Stacy Hamner: Reclaimed Spirit on https://www.instagram.com/reclaimedspirit/?hl=en (Instagam) and on https://www.facebook.com/reclaimedspirit (Facebook ) website: https://www.reclaimedspirithome.com/ (https://www.reclaimedspirithome.com/) The course mentioned in this episode: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Vicki Morris has spent much of her entrepreneurial journey making sure networking opportunities are available for every entrepreneur. In this episode, she talks about the power of networking and how to do it. If you've shied away from social media, this episode is for you. It's a reminder that, while social media is important, it's not the only way to grow a business. If you've shied away from networking because you're timid or feel uncomfortable or think it's cheesy, well, this episode is for you too. Vicki reminds us of the purpose and shares tips. Listen in as Vicki shares her passion for networking and marketing, in general. To learn more about Vicki Morris... website - https://www.facetoface-marketing.com/ (Face to Face Marketing) Vicki on https://www.facebook.com/facetofacemarketingllc (Facebook) and on https://www.instagram.com/pr4smallbiz/?hl=en (Instagram) https://www.therisegrouphsv.com/?fbclid=IwAR2ww06N4sHR9mIm9d9JntkxElKer5VuqSN5aIswEFkJmHndVe9ph6mMB98 (RISE Networking) in Huntsville, AL To learn more about my online course mentioned in this episode... https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (inspiretoengage.com/onlinecourses)

Initially, I had planned to talk about Facebook Lives. BUT Shannon Fox offered great tips on that topic AND so much more. For example, she has a free Facebook group, as well as a paid-for coaching group. She shared how she structures the two and how she consistently finds topics to keep members engaged. That's just the tip of the iceberg, though! Shannon is a mom of 4 and a certified coach with Trim Healthy Mama. So, she's busy! Yet, Shannon has worked hard to create a business that fills her full of joy, serves her clients well and gives her the freedom to be a mother and wife. It's a great episode! Find Shannon Fox on Facebook here https://www.facebook.com/trimhealthyfox (https://www.facebook.com/trimhealthyfox.) For my course Creating an Ideal Customer Story, head here: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Gosh, I've probably said it a thousand times, "Know your ideal customer." But, exactly how do we go about learning more about our ideal client, especially if our business is online? This episode takes you through 7 steps to completing market research. Believe me, the steps are simple. And also believe me, small businesses should do market research. It's not just for large companies. This is a task many businesses skip so be different! Learn about who is buying from you and why. It's powerful and informative to hear your product/service described by someone outside your business. >>> Find me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/inspiretoengage/?hl=en (@inspiretoengage) and on my site at https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (www.inspiretoengage.com).

Most of us spend a lot of time on marketing but not a lot on sales. To clarify, we do the marketing - attracting people to us through social media or search engines. But once we have their attention, we're not sure how to close the deal. We haven't spent much time thinking through our sales process. Or, we realize it's missing something.  This episode looks at one step in the sales process - phone calls. Yes! I wrote PHONE CALLS!  Many of us would rather sit in a room of rotting garbage than get on the phone.  But there are some steps we can take - like creating a script! - to help us confidently call people who've inquired about our services/products.  And note, this isn't about cold calls. This episode is about following up with potential customers who have inquired already, usually by a form on our site.  It's about writing an elevator pitch and using it, plus a few other steps, to make a phone script that puts you one step closer to making the sale.  I must say a big thank you to Sarah-Daye and Gari-Ann from https://www.instagram.com/microweddingsva/?hl=en (Micro-Weddings Virgina) and Sarah Mae Dickinson from https://www.instagram.com/smdcoaching/?hl=en (SMD Coaching). This episode would not have been possible without these 3 savvy and smart ladies.

When we skip this step - identifying our ideal customer - we begin to feel frustrated, anxious, doubtful and unclear. A business that once was a great idea and exciting now is an albatross. It causes us more angst than joy. In this episode, I share several reasons why identifying your ideal customer is imperative. (Hint: We're reminded of our purpose again.) Plus, I discuss 3 misunderstandings that I often hear. For example, business owners resist determining an ideal client because they have more than one ideal customer. I address that issue and explain why that may be true and why it may not be. If you haven't determined your ideal client, or it's been a while since you've revisited your notes, this episode is for you.

In less than a year of opening her business, Stephanie faced the challenges that COVID-19 brought to all business owners - how to keep the doors open (figuratively speaking, of course, since many were forced to close their doors for weeks). Armed with her can-do attitude and an appetizer recipe, she attempted her first Facebook Live in her basement as a way to sell her store's products. Hilarity ensued. It didn't go as planned. But she had success. And more importantly, she showed up again the following week. If you're looking for some inspiration, some business talk and a few laughs, this episode is for you, my dear. :) To learn more about Stephanie Sawyer and her eclectic art boutique Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wildflowersonsignal (https://www.facebook.com/wildflowersonsignal) website -https://www.wildflowersonsignal.com/ (https://www.wildflowersonsignal.com/ ) To learn more about Creating an Ideal Customer Story (online course) https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses)

Writing emails for your business probably feels scary. You don't want to seem salesy. You don't want to intrude. You don't have time to write. You feel like a bad writer. The list of excuses goes on and on. And guess what! All business owners have these same thoughts at some point. In this episode, I make a case for us to get over ourselves and get to writing. (Think about...everyone with purchasing power has an email address. Even our grandmothers.) If you dread writing emails (or maybe you love writing them but are always looking for tips), this episode is for you. In it, I share 5 actionable tips to improve your email writing.

I often hear, "You don't understand, Rachel. I'm a bad writer." Have you ever said that? If so, this episode is dedicated to you. [insert a virtual hug here] In this episode, I push back against the "bad writer" mindset. We use writing every day. We don't say, "I'm a bad writer," when our son asks us to add a toy to his Christmas list in our phone. We write texts to friends to say happy birthday and how much we appreciate them. We have the basic skills needed to convey our thoughts. So we carry THAT mindset into our businesses and start to look at writing as a way to sustain and move our businesses forward. I share 3 truths to change your mindset from "I'm a bad writer" to "I'm a writer." And, I offer 3 tips to make writing for your business a little easier. Enjoy! My website: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (inspiretoengage.com ) Email: rachel@inspiretoengage.com

A client and I recently worked on a short sales email, and this episode goes into the thought process behind that email. Crystal Brewer is the owner of Rocket City Sewcial. She offers sewing classes for kids 8 to 88 and rents a long arm to quilters. Recently, people on her email list contacted her directly asking if and when she was offering sewing classes again for homeschool students, hence making the audience for our sales email warm (very warm...They were eager to hear about her class.) In this episode, I share visual tricks for how to make sales emails more readable, less intimating to the busy reader. I also address subject lines for sales emails and the mindset needed to write an email that sells. One hint - Think benefits instead features. I hope you enjoy! mentioned in the episode: >>sample sales email https://www.inspiretoengage.com/sample-sales-email (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/sample-sales-email ) >>online course - Creating an Ideal Customer Story https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses) >>To learn more about Crystal and Rocket City Sewcial, head to her site or follow her on Instagram. (She is based in Huntsville, AL and as of July 2020 doesn't offer virtual classes. Just a heads up for those outside of Huntsville.) https://www.rocketcitysewcial.com/ (https://www.rocketcitysewcial.com/) Instagram for https://www.instagram.com/rocketcitysewcial_/?hl=en (Rocket City Sewcial )

School will start back soon...in various ways due to COVID-19. But, it will start! So we adults are beginning to think of daily routines to help kiddos succeed. And, at the same time, we'll be juggling our businesses and wanting to be successful too! In this episode, I look at three areas where we can streamline our energy, time and brain width (like bandwith, but with the mental capacity we have each day). I look at areas like digital time tracking, appointment scheduling and social media planning. PLUS, I highlight apps and tools in those areas that can help us! If you like this episode, please rate or review the podcast. You, as a business owner, know the power of customer reviews. :) To learn more about me: website: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (www.inspiretoengage.com) freebie discussed in this episode: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/freeposts (www.inspiretoengage.com/freeposts) course - Creating an Ideal Customer Story: https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inspiretoengage/ (@inspiretoengage) Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RachelEubanks.InspireToEngage (Inspire to Engage)

It's hard building a business and raising a family. Deanna is no stranger to this juggle so as a mompreneur herself, she now teaches other moms (well, anyone listening to this podcast episode!) how to grow a sustainable business and still have a life. In this episode, we talk the importance of knowing your belief system, what tasks she took off her plate when she realized what she was doing was not sustainable, plus more. If you're looking for validation, or maybe even permission, to step the heck back for a second, catch your breath and cuddle on the couch to watch a movie with your little one (or even teenager), then this episode is for you! To learn more about Deanna Mason... On Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/thedeannamason/ ( @thedeannamason) website https://deannamason.com/ (https://deannamason.com/) To grab my course Creating an Ideal Customer Story, use https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (this link).

Have you ever stuttered when telling your prices or immediately lowered your prices out of fear of rejection? I have, and it's a bad feeling. This short episode offers a big takeaway. After a dear friend shared a lesson he learned about perceived value, I had to share it with you (with his permission of course). I couldn't stop thinking about his story because it was such a simple lesson in how we often undervalue our work as business owners.

In the second part of our interview, we go a little deeper. We talk title tags, number of words needed on webpages to avoid "thin content," plus much more. As with the first part of our chat (episode 21), Monique offers tips that are doable, and she is a great cheerleader for all, even those just starting to learn about SEO. To learn more about this smart lady and Dragon Digital Marketing ... website - https://www.dragon-digital-marketing.com/ (https://www.dragon-digital-marketing.com/) Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DragonDigitalMarketingOfficial/ (https://www.facebook.com/DragonDigitalMarketingOfficial/) My online course called Creating An Ideal Customer Story - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses) Grace Girl Beads, the jewelry website used as a case study in this episode - It has beautiful handmade jewelry! https://gracegirlbeads.com/ (https://gracegirlbeads.com/)

Okay, SEO is not exactly a sexy topic, but it's one we as small business owners often wonder about and want to learn more. This episode with Monique Idemudia from Dragon Digital Marketing is FULL of actionable tips. She takes us through 4 key steps to making our websites more likely to rank in search results. This episode is the first one is a 2-part series with Monique. To learn more about this smart lady and Dragon Digital Marketing ... website - https://www.dragon-digital-marketing.com/ (https://www.dragon-digital-marketing.com/) Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DragonDigitalMarketingOfficial/ (https://www.facebook.com/DragonDigitalMarketingOfficial/) My online course called Creating An Ideal Customer Story - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/online-courses) Grace Girl Beads, the jewelry website used as a case study in this episode - It has beautiful handmade jewelry! https://gracegirlbeads.com/ (https://gracegirlbeads.com/)

I'll admit that sales doesn't come easy to me, but in this episode, Sarah makes it doable and even fun. Face it; as business owners, we're in sales. If we're not selling products or services, then we just have an expensive and time consuming hobby. (And we ain't got time for that. Ha!) We discuss... -the importance of understanding our sales funnel. -why raising our prices isn't a bad thing (and actually brings good to our businesses and our lives). -the first 2 steps we should take to be better at sales RIGHT NOW. -and the differences and similarities between sales and marketing. This episode is full of actionable tips! To learn more about Sarah, see below. website: https://www.sarahmaedickinson.com/ (https://www.sarahmaedickinson.com/) (For the downloads mentioned in this podcast, click Learning Resources > Downloadables.) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smdcoaching/?hl=en (@smdcoaching) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahmae.dickinson.9 (Sarah Mae Dickinson) To learn more about your ideal customer, here's a download that may help. https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (inspiretoengage.com)

I hear this a lot, "Yeah, I know I should be consistent on social media, but I don't know what to write." Another one, "I want my website to sound different, but I don't know what to say." Raise your hand if you have uttered anything like this? (My hand is most definitely raised!) This episode is about getting the words flowing again...getting us unstuck so that we can communicate to wonderful customers about our small business. I offer 8 writing tips to help frame our thinking so that we can find the words to write social posts, emails, product descriptions and more. See below for the freebie - A Week of Post Ideas (as discussed in tip 4). https://www.inspiretoengage.com/freeposts (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/freeposts) To grab, Know Your Ideal Customer Better, head to https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (my homepage). And, find me on https://www.instagram.com/inspiretoengage/?hl=en (Instagram), https://www.facebook.com/RachelEubanks.InspireToEngage/?ref=bookmarks (Facebook) or LinkedIn.

Lindsey has helped me have the confidence to get in front of a camera, hit record AND actually share it with the world! I'm a scaredy cat when it comes to video. If she can help me...she can help you. In this episode, Lindsey talks about taking baby steps when it comes to recording yourself. Plus, she offers great advice for deciding on video topics, and she even reveals her mindset for when she's sharing a video on social media or her YouTube channel. Hint - It's easy to do but something most of us overlook when we're trying to find the courage to share a video. This is a great episode! I learned so much. See below for more about Lindsey and the resources mentioned in this episode... Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thelindseyhazel/ (thelindseyhazel) YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvwXQpMfu7p5u41cSApsQg (Lindsey Hazel ) website - https://www.lindseyhazel.com/ (www.lindseyhazel.com) https://shop.lindseyhazel.com/password (Getting Started on YouTube - Checklist) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1s663GARyU (Screen Recording on an iPhone - video by Lindsey Hazel) Freebie by me - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (How to Know Your Ideal Customer Better)

I get a lot of questions about Instagram Stories...from what are they, to what should I post, to do I use hashtags. So, we're tackling the topic of Instagram Stories! This episode is both for the beginner and for those who've been playing the Stories game for a while. For a section of the episode, I walk you through adding your first Story. So, if you are just starting with Stories, you'll want to listen. [begins 7:20] But then I take on the topics of hashtags and ways to possibly increase our reach. Are you an ole pro? Do you use hashtags? If so, do you have a strategy? This section is for you. [begins 22:00] Of course, this episode doesn't cover everything there is to know about Instagram Stories, but it's a good starting point. book and people referenced: Ann Handley's book Everybody Writes Lindsey Hazel https://www.instagram.com/thelindseyhazel/?hl=en (@thelindseyhazel) Molly Marshall https://www.instagram.com/mollymarshallmarketing/?hl=en (@mollymarshallmarketing) Link to freebie - Know Your Ideal Customer Better https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (www.inspiretoengage.com)

I talk with Lisa Smith, a serial entrepreneur who owns a co-working space in Madison, AL. Knowing that owners of brick and mortar businesses have pivoted and now are beginning to open again, I wanted to hear Lisa's ideas on how to do this safely.  But our conversation goes beyond that topic. Lisa offers wisdom for any business owner that wants to grow. Spoiler alert – Much of her advice is “old school” marketing. Those are her own words for how she grows her businesses and grows her network. Our conversation is fun, and Lisa shares tips, encouragement and real-life experiences. Below are some sneak peaks of our talk… [4:45] Go "old school." Pick up the phone. [9:40] A "virtual" space at a co-working environment may be a good option for some small business owners. [11:15] using this time for real, raw conversations with customers and other business owners [12:50] the importance of recharging [14:45] "networking" the right way [15:45] the power of ONE [17:30] Networking is not about "us." It's about helping others. [20:45] growing Facebook groups [24:00] advice for a brand new business owner Learn more about Lisa Smith and The Offices of Spenryn... https://www.facebook.com/TheOfficesAtSpenryn/ (Facebook) Website https://theofficesatspenryn.com (https://theofficesatspenryn.com)/ To grab my freebie - Know Your Customer Better - head here. https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/)  

Jennifer Stewart is funny, spunky and passionate about helping small business owners. She offers straightforward advice about moving forward as states slowly open again. Jennifer also shares info about the PPP and EIDL loans/grants and introduces me to the word "thriveability." Small businesses are, well, small, but they are mighty too. Thriveability is the potential that small business owners have to not only survive, but thrive, in spite of the setbacks they've experienced in the last 2 months. As the Women's Business Center Project Manager at The Catalyst Center, Jennifer is a wealth of knowledge for how business owners can get coaching and advice from SBA resource centers like The Catalyst. For more about The Catalyst Center... The Catalyst Center website https://catalystcenter.org/ (https://catalystcenter.org/) The Catalyst on https://www.facebook.com/thecatalystcenter/ (Facebook) and on https://www.instagram.com/thecatalystcenter/?hl=en (Instagram) To find a SBA resource center near you... https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance (https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance) For my freebie on learning more about your ideal customer... https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/)

People are home right now so social media use is up. For business owners, this is a silver lining of these sad, weird COVID-19 times. We have a captive audience so let's use this time wisely. In this episode with Molly Marshall, she offers advice and tips for being active on Instagram. For example, did you know that videos are shared 1,000 times more than images? (Yes, we talk video and how even chickens - like me - can make videos.) We also talk about how to gather User Generated Content (UGC), and I ask Molly the infamous question, "How often should we post?" It's a great episode full of real-life advice on social media! Molly is a business owner with a husband and three boys so she gets it! She offers doable tips. To learn more about Molly... https://mollymarshallmarketing.com/ (https://mollymarshallmarketing.com/) Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mollymarshallmarketing/ (@mollymarshallmarketing) Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mollymarshallmarketing/ (@mollymarshallmarketing) To grab my freebie... https://www.inspiretoengage.com/know-your-ideal-customer-better (Know Your Ideal Customer Better)

In this episode, I chat with my brother-in-law, Ben Eubanks. He's a small business owner, blogger, author and speaker who normally would be presenting at large events right about now. But, like all business owners, his typical work and business tasks have greatly changed. So, we talked about ways he's found to pivot, and he offers great suggestions for all business owners. Here are a few things in this episode... [7:45] ways to still get in front of a crowd [11:22] Now, more than ever, people are craving connection. Look for how you can partner with a business complimentary to yours. [13:40] Clean up our websites. [17:00] the importance of reaching out to people...and really listening and sharing [18:15] Talk with people outside your niche. [19:28] Should you reduce your prices right now? [22:45] ways to still get "paid," even if you choose to reduce prices drastically [24:30] Be selectively "free" and why [27:15] key takeaways from this episode Ways to find Ben: his blog - Upstart HR https://upstarthr.com/ (https://upstarthr.com/) on LinkedIn as Ben Eubanks (Huntsville, AL) Freebie from my site - Know Your Ideal Customer Better https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (https://www.inspiretoengage.com/)

COVID-19 is a nasty equalizer. For example, businesses from micro small businesses to large corporations are facing similar problems now. All of the sudden, we're all in the same boat! I chatted with Laurie Heard from Move Digital Group. Her digital marketing agency serves businesses with large marketing budgets. I wanted to know what advice she would give businesses - both large and small - during this time. It's a powerful episode! It's full of encouragement and practicality. Below are a few topics we discussed... [3:55] People are still spending money. [6:00] Don't panic. It's one of the worst things we can do. [6:20] Bad times don't last forever. [6:35] Keep investing in your business, and think beyond financial investments. [7:45] Look again at your budget. [9:20] Focus on existing clients. [10:00] What you do now will make you the next 3 years as a business! [12:25] Start thinking about the future...now. [13:00] Use the "free" offers right now to learn, learn and learn some more. [14:55] Current customers are number 1, and communication is key! [15:20] Why digital marketing is more important than ever [16:50] Listen really well. [18:35] A short lesson on Google My Business [22:25] Understand that your client's needs are not the same as yours necessarily. [23:45] The power of doing something! [25:10] How to find Laurie and Move Digital Group [26:25] Key takeaways To connect with Laurie and Move Digital Group: https://movedigitalgroup.com/ (https://movedigitalgroup.com/) email: hello@movedigitalgroup.com Facebook https://www.facebook.com/movedigitalgroup/ (https://www.facebook.com/movedigitalgroup/) Instagram https://www.instagram.com/movedigitalgroup/ (https://www.instagram.com/movedigitalgroup/) Twitter https://twitter.com/MoveDigitalGrp (https://twitter.com/MoveDigitalGrp) Freebie from my site https://www.inspiretoengage.com/know-your-ideal-customer-better (www.inspiretoengage.com - Know Your Ideal Customer Better )

Heather Anne Madla recently wrote a blog post that went viral. The title - Homeschooling is Not the Same as Crisis Schooling: Advice During COVID-19 Shutdowns. In the post, she points out the biggest difference...homeschool parents chose and researched their decision, while crisis schooling is different. It's something we've all been forced to take on. Listen as she gives practical advice about how to continue working on our businesses while accepting the current situation (i.e., schooling our children from home). Below are some topics you'll hear and links to Heather's articles mentioned in the episode. [5:15] Homeschooling is not the same as crisis schooling. [10:00] Understand that school closing is traumatic. [15:00] advice for parents of middle and high schoolers [20:30] Pj's are fine! [21:50] Homeschooling does not take as much time! [22:10] Be lenient with the schedule. [29:45] Don't create busy work for your kiddos. [32:30] Communicate with teachers if your kids are struggling right now. [35:00] Disney-inspired thematic units [38:40] Embrace the unanswered questions. [40:00] The tiara! [45:10] key takeaways from this episode https://www.heatheranneworld.com/post/homeschooling-is-not-the-same-as-crisis-schooling-advice-during-coronavirus-covid-19-shut-downs (Homeschooling is Not the Same as Crisis Schooling ) https://www.heatheranneworld.com/post/crisis-schooling-your-middle-and-high-schoolers-during-the-covid-19-coronavirus-shut-down (Crisis Schooling Your Middle and High Schoolers during COVID-19 Shutdown ) https://www.heatheranneworld.com/post/disney-inspired-literature-based-thematic-learning (Disney Inspired Literature Based Thematic Learning) Heather Anne Madla on https://www.facebook.com/heatheranneartandsoul/ (Facebook) and https://www.instagram.com/heatheranneartandsoul/ (Instagram) link to my freebie - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/know-your-ideal-customer-better (Know Your Ideal Customer Better )

Being a small business owner is difficult...and then Covid happened. Now, we're talking diff.i.cult! This episode is about ways to continue to move our businesses forward while recognizing that our lives and the lives of our ideal customers have changed drastically. The goal with this episode is to encourage us to keep conversations alive - to keep talking with our customers and with each other. Below are a few things you'll hear inside... [1:30] keep promoting our businesses while always considering how to serve [4:45] recognize how our customers' lives have changed [6:30] continue to talk products and services [8:45] Ask - what do our customers need right now? [9:10] How can we continue "working"? [9:50] photographers get creative [12:00] makeup artists and hair stylists teach virtually [14:00] Use "Save the Dates." [14:20] reduced rate or what you can pay right now [16:00] Record! Record! Record! [16:20] ways to meet virtually [18:45] customer service, now more than ever [20:30] Tackle the to-do list. [25:00] Ban together with other business owners. [28:45] review of the 5 ways to move forward

Bekah Schmidt identifies ways small businesses owners can get help financially during this difficult time of Covid shutdown. She and I also talk ways to keep customers in the loop of what's happening for our businesses. It's a powerful episode! And relevant! Here's a few things inside... [3:15] financial assistance info + call your banking lender [4:16] SBA loan info and steps to follow to make it easier for you [5:50] show customers your health plan [8:10] What about part-time employees? [12:30] how businesses are helping one another [16:20] getting your business online if it's not [19:20] ways to keep selling right now [23:20] pep talk from Bekah (did my heart good!) + customer service is key now Important links from this episode... https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance (Small Business Administration Disaster Relief) https://southhuntsvillemain.org/ (South Huntsville Main) (South Huntsville Business Main Association's website) https://www.facebook.com/shbahsv/ (South Huntsville Main Business Association) on Facebook

Whew! What a crazy couple of weeks due to covid 19! As a homeschool mom + small business owner, I have been running a business and homeschooling my children for 3 years. So in this episode, I share some hard-learned lessons from past experiences and tricks for handling the craziness. A peak at what's in this episode... [1:20] Do school early in the day. [4:10] Put out small (business) fires. [7:45] Ground rules for starting school as early as possible in the day [8:15] Changing clothes changes our mindsets. [11:15] Designate a school area. [16:40] Ways to use timers to make lessons go smoother [19:30] Play games!! [23:30] Independent work time for our kiddos is important. [27:15] Recap of tips [30:30] Why business owners are already great teachers! :) To learn more about Inspire to Engage, visit https://www.inspiretoengage.com/ (www.inspiretoengage) or @inspiretoengage on https://www.instagram.com/inspiretoengage/?hl=en (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/RachelEubanks.InspireToEngage/ (Facebook)

With the constant growth in technology, marketing techniques and platforms are always changing. But, there are principles, or pillars, that small business owners can use to build a strong marketing foundation for their businesses. In this episode, Melody talks about these pillars and how to apply them. She brings a wealth of knowledge to this conversation because of her vast experience in advertising, marketing and as a business owner herself. Listen up as we talk about consistency, caring for your loyal customers and more! Here's what is in store... [5:45] identify our target customers - "There's a lot of customers out there, but they aren't all yours." - Melody Tholstrup [8:20] perception is reality - What our customers see or think about our businesses is their "reality." So, how can we affect perceptions? [11:00] consistency is key [12:35] the importance of our elevator pitch - It costs nothing to create an elevator pitch, but it can earn us lots of sales. [14:25] take care of our loyal customers, our employees, our contractors and vendors [17:00] ask for help [19:15] the ugly baby syndrome that we business owners often experience (Credit: https://www.thomrigsby.com/ (Thom Rigsby)) [22:30] the New Coke flop [25:00] take care of customers and the Southwest Airlines example [25:30] What's our secret sauce? [28:00] the importance of accountability as a business owner [29:25] key takeaways from this episode Want to know more about Melody and the businesses/organizations mentioned in this podcast? Melody Tholstrup with My Size Marketing - https://mysizemarketing.com/ (https://mysizemarketing.com/) https://www.facebook.com/MySizeMarketing/ (Facebook ) and https://www.instagram.com/mysizemarketing/?hl=en (Instagram) Thom Rigsby - https://www.thomrigsby.com/ (https://www.thomrigsby.com/) For those in North Alabama: https://catalystcenter.org/ (The Catalyst Center)

After a trademark battle several years ago, Jacki Gil was forced to change the name of her branding and logo business. No longer could she serve other business owners under the name Salt and Paperie. Jacki could still create gorgeous things for brides and party planners under that name...but not for other businesses. After some time (which included having a baby!), Jacki regained her footing and was ready to do branding and logo work again...but under a different name. In this chat, we talk about the struggles to that and how she's went about growing her "second" graphic design business. Of course, we talk about other things too, like vacations. In fact, my first memory of Jacki centered around a vacation and how she handled it with clients. It's a great episode! Below are some things you'll hear. [10:15] graphic design advice for business owners just starting out who may not be able to pay for professional services [14:15] what to expect when paying a graphic designer for logo and branding services [21:20] vacation well while treating clients and potential ones kindly [24:15] more insight into what to expect when working with a professional graphic designer [26:00] getting a new business off the ground [29:45] creating and practicing a response to difficult questions you are often asked [31:30] the marketing power of your inner circle - your friends and family [36:10] key takeaways from this episode What to know more about Jacki? See below. Jacki Gil at Made by Jacki Gil (logo, branding and surface pattern designs, formerly Huntsville Design House) https://www.instagram.com/madebyjackigil/ (Instagram) and https://www.instagram.com/madebyjackigil/ (Facebook) Jacki Gil at Salt and Paperie (custom paper designs) https://www.instagram.com/saltandpaperie/ (Instagram) and https://www.facebook.com/southernsaltandpaperie/ (Facebook)

You may have heard to "never boost" a post on Facebook. But I don't usually agree with that advice, especially for small business owners. And I have reasons! Listen to this episode as I delve into those reasons, give some tips for what and how to boost and offer a pep talk for the simple acting of "trying." Resources from this episode: Molly Marshall Marketing on https://www.instagram.com/mollymarshallmarketing/ (Instagram ) Facebook's https://www.facebook.com/business/help/240208966080581?id=352109282177656 (information about what it means to boost ) Freebie - https://www.inspiretoengage.com/know-your-ideal-customer-better (Know Your Customers Better)

Being a military family, moving is expected. So when Gari-Ann learned that her family would be relocating, she wanted to move her photography business strategically. After all, she'd worked hard for years building it in Huntsville, AL and wanted to experience the same success as quickly as possible in her new town Williamsburg, VA. In this episode, we talk about her strategy, like what she did prior to moving that made the transition easier and more successful for her business. Gari-Ann also lays down some great advice about being real with the situation. Head here to learn more about Gari-Ann and her businesses. A blog post detailing Gari-Ann's strategy discussed in this episode - Click http://kiaand.co/behind-the-scenes/building-relationships-reaching-out-expanding-into-a-new-market/ (here) to read. websites: http://kiaand.co/ (Kia & Co.) (business branding photography) and http://www.gkiaphotography.com/ (Gari-Ann Kia Photography) (wedding photography) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekiaandco/?eid=ARCZdVcaa2aKJJuD2L8bsp0mEovP7mDBIKqY_XsP0wjJC3ZwDYbd9e3pK9UTaib2qgN9jCbpb4MtF4xZ&timeline_context_item_type=intro_card_work&timeline_context_item_source=42112023&fref=tag (Kia & Co. ) and https://www.facebook.com/GKiaPhotography/ (Gari-Ann Kia Photography) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekiaandco/ (thekiaandco) and https://www.instagram.com/gkiaphoto/ (gkiaphoto)

Our businesses feel a lot like our babies. But when our real-life children are sick, business gets hard. We can't focus, and we struggle to find creativity. Amy and I talk about health issues her family faced in 2019 and how her business managed to grow in spite of the difficult time. It wasn't easy, but she had things in place to encourage this growth. Listen in to hear her story and for some great advice. Visit the links below to learn more about Amy and her jewelry business. website: https://gracegirlbeads.com/ (https://gracegirlbeads.com/) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopgracegirlhuntsville/ (shopgracegirlhuntsville) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracegirlbeads/ (gracegirlbeads)