Small Biz Babes Community Podcast

In this final episode of season 1 of the Small Biz Babes Community Podcast, I share my decision to take a step back from podcasting to pursue personal goals and new business opportunities.Reflecting on the journey that led to this decision, I discuss the concept of pivoting in business and share my guidance on recognizing the signs that indicate the need for a pivot, along with practical tips for navigating change in your business with confidence.In this episode, you'll learn:What it means to "pivot" your business and five actionable tips to help you navigate pivot in your business with confidenceThe key signs that signal the potential need for a pivot in your businessMy realization that my priorities and goals have shifted led me to take a step back from podcasting for a whileTools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Today, I am thrilled to host a special guest: crafting influencer and educator Amy from Amy Makes That! She is living proof that in today's world, your business can be whatever you dream it to be, thanks to the magic of social media. Amy spills her secrets on how she turned her creative passion into a thriving business, from rocking a YouTube channel to mentoring and selling digital templates. Are you curious about how she does it all and how she, as a crafting mentor, can help you start a crafting business? Join us as Amy shares her story, from the early days of her business to where she is now. Plus, she's here for the real talk on entrepreneurship, success and hard-earned lessons she learned along the way! In this episode, we will cover:Amy's inspiring journey: How she turned her creative passion into a dream businessCrucial lessons for new business owners: What Amy learned about people through entrepreneurshipHow Amy can guide you to start and grow your crafting small businessReal talk on entrepreneurship, success, and the hard-earned lessons Amy's picked up along the wayAmy's Resources:The CBDP (Craft Business Digital Planner) Waitlist Free Niche Guide For Craft Businesses Ways to connect with Amy: AMT Blog Shop AMT AMT YouTube Channel AMT Instagram AMT TikTok AMT Pinterest AMT Facebook IG Broadcast ChannelMore about Amy Makes That:"Amy, also known as "Amy Makes That" is a seasoned Cricut crafter and content creator sharing unique project ideas, tips for beginners, and craft business advice. She is eager to help crafters reach their full potential with their cutting machine and hopes to inspire every person who comes across her platforms!" Tools mentioned in this episode:Try my productivity system Notion for free: https://affiliate.notion.so/2bdbz1rd1jx1 Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEHow to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Feeling the weight of "doing it all" in your business and life? Not sure what to prioritize? Working hard, yet not moving closer to reaching your big goals?This episode is for you! Today, I debunk the myth of "doing it all," share the power of prioritization, and share how I create space for growing a business AND living a fulfilling life.If you're ready to break free from the social pressure of doing it all and embrace a more enjoyable approach to success, then you're in the right place. Let's dive in together and discover the secrets to growing a successful business on your own terms.In this episode, I dive into:Addressing the unrealistic pressure of "doing it all" often seen on social mediaThe importance of prioritizing and letting go in business and life so you can create space for what matters the mostMy personal experiences with "letting go" of opportunities and protecting my time so I could achieve my long-term goalsActionable guidance on how to prioritize tasks/projects based on their alignment with your goals.If you loved this episode, you will also love:E40: Small business success: Systems and mindset behind "getting it all done"  - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Start for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREWant or NEED better system to plan your goals and projects? Snag my Notion Goal Planner HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

We all know that consistency on Instagram is important to growing your community, driving engagement, building brand awareness, and ultimately getting sales to your business.However, keeping up with the demands of posting regularly can sometimes feel like a daunting task.That's why today I've got some tried and tested tips to make post creation easier for you so you can stay on track for the long term!If you are a busy business owner and want to improve your consistency with posting on Instagram, tune in to this episode and learn how to create content smarter, not harder so you can stay consistent on Instagram for your business!In this episode, you'll learn:7 actionable tips to help you stay consistent on Instagram for your businessclever hacks for boosting efficiency in Instagram content creationmy savvy strategies for making more posts with less timehow to streamline your content creation processstrategies for saving your time with content creationIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E8: 7 ways to boost your Instagram engagement that actually work- LISTEN NOWE18: How to stay consistent with social media for your small business - LISTEN NOWE35: Here is everything you'll need to start recording Reels and TikToks for your business - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Try my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERENeed a social media planner so you can finally stay consistent on Instagram? Snag my Google Sheets Social Media Planning Calendar HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Is it time to rebrand your business? If you've been asking yourself this question - you are in the right place. Today, we are going to be talking all things rebranding with Alexia, a brand and website designer for creative women!She is going to share with us her expertise, along with what are signs that you might need to rebrand your business when it's the best time to rebrand, as well as when it's NOT the time to be rebranding. Alexia will also share with us what a rebranding process looks like, what your options are and how she, as a brand and web designer, can help you with your rebranding process.In this episode, we'll cover:Knowing When Your Business Needs a New Look: Signs It's Time for a RebrandWhen Not to Change Your Brand: Instances Where Rebranding Isn't the Best MoveHow to Give Your Brand a Fresh Makeover: Understanding the Rebranding Process and the Help You Can Get from a Brand DesignerWays to connect with Alexia:Instagram: @studioalexiaxoPinterest: @studioalexiaWebsite: studioalexia.comMore about Alexia:Alexia is an English Literature major who turned into a self-taught brand and web designer, running a sweet little studio solo with the help of copious London fogs and an immeasurable love for what she does. Alexia is passionate about the loveliness of words, appreciating beautiful things, and seeing all of the good in humans. And she's always ready to make more friends. Tools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEHow to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, you probably know that making the most out of your week can be a challenge.And if you're like me and you're constantly striving to improve your time management and productivity, you are in for a treat!In this episode, I am diving into my weekly productivity system, including the nitty-gritty of my weekly smart scheduling. I'll be sharing with you how I time block my week as an owner of a multi-six-figure online business. No secrets here - this is what works for me and how I plan to make space for deep work as well as managing day-to-day operations. I will also share how I prioritise where I spend time in my business, introduce you to my daily work themes and how I plan for the week ahead! So, if you need a refresh to your weekly planning, maybe you can try a thing or two from my system! In this episode we will cover:The importance of time-blocking uninterrupted hours to work on projects dedicated to long-term business growthDeep dive into my exact weekly schedule, why it's set up this way and the daily themes you can implement to continuously make progress in your businessHow I batch time-consuming tasks in my business for increased productivityThe power of weekly reflection and getting clear on your schedule for the week ahead on Friday so you can avoid being overwhelmed when it's time to do the workIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E38: My daily routine for productivity as a full-time business owner - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Start for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Do you sometimes find yourself juggling pile of tasks and ideas for your business, struggling to make meaningful progress on the main project? Perhaps you might even be losing sight of what the main project actually is because you always get too excited about a new idea or opportunity that comes your way.I used to look at other business owners on social media and see them doing all the things - running a digital shop, running a product shop, running a print-on-demand shop, offering consulting and launching membership - I'd felt like I needed to do all of it too. Ideally, start right away!I'd hear people saying - you need to be on TikTok. Others would say you can't rely on social media - you also need to have an email list. Others would say you need to go on Pinterest because Pinterest is so hot right now. And the list of opportunities goes on and on.On the outside, all of it may look like a good idea, potentially an opportunity to earn more, and it might even be important to implement for your business - at some point.But what we don't realize is that the social media world of distraction can be a recipe for disaster for your business. That is if you fall into shiny object syndrome and don't protect your priorities, time and resources.I had my fair share of shiny object syndrome, and at some point, I wasn't even aware of it! That's why, in today's episode, I am sharing with you what it is, the symptoms and practical tips that helped me to overcome the nasty "distraction syndrome" for good! In this podcast episode, you'll learn:The importance of focusing on your main project if you want to grow your businessLearn to identify if shiny object syndrome is hindering your success through common warning signsPractical steps to help you prioritize effectively and stay focused on making progress in your businessHow shiny object syndrome can hinder your business growthTools mentioned in this episode:Save 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HEREWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you a small business owner learning how to use Instagram to get customers or clients to your business?  Well, hold onto your smartphones because today, we're putting the spotlight on the time-wasting pitfalls that many entrepreneurs stumble into on Instagram.  Get ready as we delve deep into seven Instagram mistakes that might just be hindering your growth and, more importantly, your ability to attract customers.But we are not here to just point fingers. We are here to give you actionable tips so you can learn, improve and see your Instagram efforts pay off! In this episode we'll cover: The seven most common Instagram mistakes that often trap new business ownersHow to spot the subtle signs of 'desperate energy' in your Instagram strategy and understand its impact on your resultsWhy sending your audience to your bio link might be costing you potential customers and what to do insteadThe importance of nurturing authentic relationships and trust within your Instagram strategyIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E18: How to stay consistent with social media for your small business - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you a service-based business owner trying to figure out how to get your first client online? You are in luck because today, I have a special guest for you - Sophie from Simply Sophie Designs - a small business mentor and businesswoman behind a marketing and design agency that helps brands tell their unique story through eye-catching designs and powerful messaging. Today, Sophie will be sharing with us her secrets to getting clients online, as well as her inspiring story of how she turned her passion for design into her dream business!In this episode, we'll cover the following:How pitching yourself and building relationships can help you book your first (or next) client onlineThe power of not letting fear prevent you from showing up for your businessSophies, the vulnerable story behind what it REALLY is like growing an online business and walking forward even if you don't have all the answersMore about Sophie:Sophie is the designer behind Simply Sophie Designs, a marketing + design agency that help brands tell their unique story through eye-catching designs and powerful messaging. Simply Sophie Designs started with Sophie selling custom portraits from her college dorm room to classmates in 2019. Her business has since grown and evolved into a service-based business, which allowed her to quit corporate and pursue her own dreams full time in 2022. When she's not creating one of a kind pattern designs, beautiful illustrations, social media posts, or writing and designing marketing emails for her clients, she can also be found teaching a module in her signature course, the Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program a live, cohort-style class for business owners.Sophie is also the co-host of creative entrepreneurship podcast, The Art of Small, and has had her illustration work published in magazine spreads and books alike. She currently lives in Indianapolis with her husband and their bernedoodle, Dolly (affectionately named after Dolly Parton).How to connect with Sophie:Instagram:FacebookYoutubePinterestWebsiteTools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearGet Sophie's freebie: The Client Magnet Blueprint: 5 Power Moves to Score Your Next (or First) ClientWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREHow to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

If you are planning to sell your products or services on Instagram in 2024 and are not really sure how to do it, this episode is for you.Growing business on Instagram is NOT the same as just growing your Instagram account. As business owners on the platform, we are not just looking at likes and followers numbers, but we want to make sure that the effort we are putting into our account will not only attract potential leads and customers to our business but also generate revenue for our business.In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of Instagram, uncovering essential marketing strategies and highlighting specific features that can help you get more customers/clients from Instagram!In this episode, we will cover:How to attract followers that want to buy from youActionable tips to apply on Instagram if you want to get more customers/clients from your Instagram effortsMust-know marketing strategies for business owners on InstagramSpecific Instagram features to elevate your business gameIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E4: Instagram profile makeover for your business - LISTEN NOWE39: What to post on Instagram stories for your small business to convert your followers into customers - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Ever felt like there just aren't enough hours in a day to get it all done? Wondering how successful entrepreneurs manage to do it all? Don't we all have 24 hours in a day? Do they have some secret system that makes it all work? And what about personal responsibilities? Do they have house cleaners and huge teams?Well, I can't speak for everyone, but I can share with you how I do it.I used to work 16-hour days when I started my first business because I had no systems and zero time management skills. But one step at a time, I cut it down in my businesses to 5-8 hours a day with weekends off, maintaining multi-six figures.This episode is an honest chat about the journey, the systems, and the changes I went through to "get it all done."So, if you are working hard, running around the clock, and sometimes losing motivation to keep working on your business - join me on this episode and get ready to uncover the strategies that could help you reclaim your time, boost your productivity, and bring more balance into your life.In this episode, we'll cover:The truth about the hard beginnings I went through in my businessHow changes in mindset and systems played a pivotal role in growing my businessesStrategies to break free from the time trap and manage your time efficientlyDo I have house cleaners? What tasks do I outsource so I can work 5-8 hours a day?Tips for efficient time management that prevent overwhelm and help you scale your businessThe significance of creating systems that support both business growth and personal lifeIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E12: 8 principles to achieving your goals - LISTEN NOWE21: 5 habits I changed this year that boosted my productivity and happiness - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Want or NEED better system to plan your goals and projects? Snag my Notion Goal Planner HERETry my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no addit

"What should I post on Instagram stories if I want more of my followers to buy my product or invest in my service? Is it really necessary to share pictures of my morning coffee or, even worse - pictures of myself? How is that going to help me to get more sales? Shouldn't Instagram stories for my business be - well, business related?"That's what I've been asking myself when I started to use Instagram stories for my business, and if you are a business owner wondering the same thing - this episode is for you!I used to feel very awkward showing on my Instagram stories. I didn't know what to post or what to say. Surely, I had no idea how to monetize it. It was just one more thing on my to-do list. Often very unintentional. Today, Instagram stories are a big part of my marketing strategy and a traffic-driving source for my business.Today, I am diving deep into five Instagram Stories post ideas that can help you increase trust, brand loyalty, engagement and even sales to your business! I will also give you specific examples so you can implement it and explain why these posts matter in getting more sales to your business!In this episode, we'll cover:5 Specific Instagram story ideas you should be posting for your business if you want to get more sales and whyHow to use polls and questions to boost engagement and gain valuable insights for your future content and potential productsStrategies for building trust and converting engaged followers into loyal customers through Instagram storiesWays to sell on Instagram stories without being salesyIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E8: 7 ways to boost your Instagram engagement that actually work - LISTEN NOWE13: Why are you not getting more followers on Instagram? - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

I used to try all different productivity hacks, but nothing seemed to stick. I wasn't aware of this ONE thing. Or I was too stubborn to admit it.The more productive I tried to be, the more exhausted I was, and I wasn't getting much more done. I was irritable, and simple tasks would take me longer.That was until I stopped treating myself as a machine. I realised that how productive my days are often depends on how well I am prepared for that day before it starts.In this episode, I dive into my daily productivity routine as a full-time business owner.I am going to walk you through from start to finish how my days look like, how I plan my days, how I prioritise tasks through my days, the productivity start routine for the day, how I work through my work blocks and my work shut-down practice for days that prepare me for the next day.If you find yourself unproductive, you can test out a thing or two from my systems!In this episode, we will cover:the ONE realisation that changed my approach to productivity foreverbreakdown of my daily routine as a multi-six-figure business ownerhow I plan for productive days ahead5-minute ritual to boost productivity in your work blocks that work for meactionable tips you can try to boost your productivity todayTools mentioned in this episode:Curious about my Notion templates? - CHECK THEM OUT HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERECheck out Deep Work by Cal newport - CLICK HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HEREWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Not many people talk about the REALITY of growing on Instagram. The truth is that Instagram requires a lot of work. It's hard. It comes with its own set of challenges. It's not supposed to be easy; otherwise, literally, everybody would be Instagram famous.So, how can you prepare yourself for success? What should you really expect as a business owner committed to finally taking Instagram seriously so you can utilise it to grow your business?In this episode, I am opening up about what it REALLY is like growing on Instagram based on my experience of growing to over 170K followers. Honestly? It was pretty similar to the hurdles I went through when I was growing my business on TikTok! Every business owner trying to grow on social media should know THIS so they can have realistic expectations and plan appropriately.If you are a business owner ready to commit to your Instagram growth this year, this episode is a must-listen on your playlist.In this episode, we'll cover:The realistic approach to Instagram successWhat you should expect if you are ready to commit to your Instagram growth this yearThe harsh reality of growing on Instagram that no one talks aboutLessons from my 170K Follower Instagram growth journeyThe mindset shift needed to thrive on InstagramIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E11: 3 things I did to grow over 150K followers on Instagram organically in one year - LISTEN HEREE13: Why are you not getting more followers on Instagram? - LISTEN HEREE18: How to stay consistent with social media for your small business - LISTEN HERETools mentioned in this episode:Try my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HEREWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREWant 365 days of content? Get my Social Media Content cheatsheet Improve Your Instagram Profile for More Followers with my FREE Instagram Profile Makeover Guide!Download your Instagram profile makeover guide - FREE GUIDETry my productivity system Notion for free: TRY HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

In this special New Year's episode, I've got a delightful treat for you. We're welcoming back our favourite guest, my husband Wes, who's here to be our lucky charm as we step into the new year.If you're a business owner who's also juggling a romantic relationship, you know how intricate it can be to balance your personal life with your business.Join us in today's episode as we share insights into the little things we do to support that make a big difference and enhance our lives. We hope that you'll find inspiration and pick up a thing or two from us to make your year even more extraordinary.In this episode we'll cover:The changes we made to make more time for ourselves and our relationshipHow prioritizing self-care and personal time has enhanced our productivity and overall well-beingEstablishing an accountability hour for tasks that will improve our lives in the futurePutting in the extra effort to nurture our relationshipIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E3: Navigating marriage & business, Q&A with my husband - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Shop the boxing week sale on all small business resources - CLICK HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERE Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you ready to step up your game in the social media world for your business and join the party with short-form video content? TikToks, Reels, and YouTube shorts have taken the internet by storm in the last few years.As business owners marketing our business on social media, we need to adapt. Hiding behind photos or graphics is just NOT going to make it anymore.Buuuuut let's be honest, thinking about recording yourself on camera can be scary!So, if you want to hit the record button but you are wondering: What are the first steps? Where do I even start? What do I need? How do I record reels when I don't have a fancy office? Should I just record in my living room?...you are in the right place!I've been in your shoes. My first TikToks were filmed on my living room floor, with no professional setup, just me and a smartphone. Since then, I have recorded a couple thousand of TikToks and reels combined.And today, I am here to break it down for you – from the mindset to equipment and how to prepare your space at home. So, by the end of this episode, you'll feel confident and ready to create Reels and TikToks for your business!In this episode we'll cover:The mindset talk: how to get confidence to show up on camera for your businessHow to plan and prepare for your recording day so you don't scramble but you know exactly what to doPractical tips for content recording from homeEquipment Essentials: Learn the must-have equipment for Reels and TikTok content recordingIf you want to start recording and build your confidence on camera but need someone to hold your hand to get started - tune it, and let's do this together!Tools mentioned in this episode:Shop the boxing week sale on all small business resources - CLICK HERE Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREWant a breakdown of my exact content recording equipment? Download it HERE Join our private Facebook group hereResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

I'll be honest with you - I've postponed recording this episode as long as I could. This year has been A LOT. I am ending this year as a completely different woman than when this year started.I changed. This year, I refused to run my business and live my life in anxiety.   This year, I gave myself space to explore and find out the direction I wanted to go that would make me most excited. This year, I chose to stop pursuing things that I didn't enjoy anymore in my business and life.I went through every single thing I did in my business and was honest about:How much time does it take?Is it worth the profits? Do I still enjoy this? Can I see myself doing this for another year?For the first time in my life, I started to prioritise freedom and joy. Today, I am the most fulfilled business owner I have ever been. In this episode, I am taking you behind the scenes of this transition, along with the life-changing lessons this year taught me and the changes I made in my life to get here.So, if you feel like you are ready for more freedom, joy, and fulfilment in your life as a business owner and human, make sure you have your notepad close by. This episode is an honest, juicy look behind the scenes of scaling my business and creating more freedom in my life!In this episode, we will dive into:Mindset shifts I made that helped me start prioritising freedom over profits in my business.How working on my mental and emotional health helped me to switch from desperate energy to thriving energy in my life and businessThe questions you need to ask yourself if you want more fulfilment in your business and life.The importance of creating space if you want to grow your businessChanges I implemented to scale my business and cut down my work hours from 12-16h days to 7h daysIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E9: Lessons I learned in 2023 so far - what worked, what didn't - LISTEN NOWE21: 5 habits I changed this year that boosted my productivity and happiness - LISTEN NOWE29: Feeling unproductive and exhausted in your business? Are you heading to burnout? This episode is for you - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Join our private Facebook group hereStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERETry my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first year Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no&nb

Do you ever struggle to find motivation to work on your business, especially when things are not going the way you expected?There is NO DOUBT that it's hard to show up sometimes for your business to do the things you are supposed to do to make your goals happen, especially when you are not exactly seeing the results of your work yet.Those beginning stages require extra discipline and motivation that you may not have accessible all the time. So, how do you do it when you feel so discouraged or overwhelmed from allllll the things you need to do?In this episode, I will give you answers on how I developed discipline to show up for my business no matter what and provide you with 3 actionable strategies you can do today to start building your discipline muscle that supports you in achieving your goals!In this episode, we'll cover:The importance of patience in building your self-disciplineWays to build systems that support your goals and help you follow through consistentlyHow protecting your time, focus, and energy can lead to increased productivityDefining the big picture goal that serves as a source of your motivation on tough daysThe importance of a supportive relationship with YOURSELF if you want to achieve your goalsIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E6: Feeling behind? This is for you - LISTEN NOWE12: 8 principles to achieving your goals - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

It's that time of the year again when everybody is in goal-planning mode. We tend to focus so much on the “New Year, New Start,” write down ambitious goals, and often skip the most important part of successful goal setting: REFLECTION.Without reflection, goal setting can be just a mechanical exercise, a list of to-do's without the heart and soul that make them worth pursuing. Without reflection, goals can become just an empty target. Reflection can help you to define which goals REALLY matter to you, and it can help you to create the motivation and fuel you need to follow through with action to make them happen!Thanks to monthly and yearly reflection, I have been able to continuously keep changing my business and improving the quality of my life.So get ready to take a moment to pause and reflect on this year - where you are, what got you here, your accomplishments and challenges, so you can set meaningful goals and create realistic action plans that will lead you to accomplish them.In this episode we'll cover:The importance of reflection for setting meaningful goals and creating realistic action plans to accomplish themReflection questions you need to ask yourself to set better goals for your business and personal lifeHow little intentional changes in your daily life can make a big impact on your happiness, motivation and success in business, relationships and personal life?Examples from my life and business how I use reflection to choose where I REALLY want to spend my time in business and lifeYou will want to write down your notes, make yourself a cup of tea, and have a little date with yourself. Perhaps you'll treat yourself for dinner to your favourite restaurant as you reflect and get clear on where you are at and which goals are worth writing down for 2024!Tune in, and let's plan for our best years ahead together!If you loved this episode, you will also love:E12: 8 principles to achieving your goals - LISTEN NOWE29: Feeling unproductive and exhausted in your business? Are you heading to burnout? This episode is for you  - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Download the Reflection Sheets - CLICK HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEWant or NEED better system to plan your goals and projects? Snag my Notion Goal Planner HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources

If you're a business owner on Instagram, you understand the power of reels. But the constant pressure of creating new reels can be a tough challenge!Well, you're in luck - today, I am diving into just as effective and far less stressful Instagram post type: Instagram carousels!Instagram carousels are hidden treasure on the platform. Besides the fact that you can make them in your sweatpants on the sofa without having to put on makeup and show up on camera, they are fantastic tool for storytelling, showcasing what you are doing, connecting with your audience, AND they can also get you on the explore page.I've been posting 1-3 carousels weekly for the last few years, and they often get more non-follower reach than reels. If you are not using carousels because you don't really know how to use them for your business, this episode is for you. In this episode, we'll cover:What are Instagram carousels and the benefits of using them, including enhanced engagement and reachThe importance of creating content that serves your audience builds trust and fosters personal connections, and how you can use Instagram carousels to do thatExamples of how to effectively use Instagram carousels for businessIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E4: Instagram profile makeover for your business - LISTEN NOWE8: 7 ways to boost your Instagram engagement that actually work - LISTEN NOWE11: 3 things I did to grow over 150K followers on Instagram organically in one year - LISTEN HERETools mentioned in this episode:Try my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HERECheck out Pat Flynn's books - CLICK HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksSome of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you tired of spending endless hours on social media tasks for your business? Are you looking to simplify your social media planning process? Well, you are in for a treat!In this episode, I am diving into five game-changing strategies that will save you hours managing social media for your business.From streamlining your content creation process to harnessing the power of automation, batch work, delegation, and repurposing content, each tip provides actionable advice you can apply to your business to save you time and also elevate your online presence! Tune in now and discover how to work smarter, not harder, on your social media journey!In this episode, we'll cover:Actionable steps to streamline your social media processTips for efficiently batching your content creationExamples of leveraging the power of automation to save your time and effortThe importance of delegating parts of your social media processIdeas for content repurposing so you can work smarter, not harderTools mentioned in this episode:Save 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Download my Instagram Reels Success guide for more views - FREE GUIDEDownload my Instagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEDownload my Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEDownload my 5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your to-do list? You know that feeling like you are working more but not getting as much done as you'd like? Some days you lack motivation and productivity and perhaps overreact to little things. Maybe you even find yourself giving too much power to self-doubt, comparison and other destructive thoughts in your head.If that sounds familiar to you, you might be running yourself to burnout. I've been there in the past, and this year I almost got myself there again. Luckily I could recognize the signs and knew exactly what was going on.Working on our business can be rewarding and exciting, but it can also be emotionally, mentally and physically draining. A lot of times, we sacrifice every second of free time we have to work on our business and keep adding more which can be a really slippery slope.In today's podcast episode, I dive into the topic of burnout in business, how to spot signs of burnout, and what you can do to get yourself out of it (or even better, how to prevent it!).In this episode, we'll cover:How to get back on track when you feel exhausted, unproductive and demotivated in your businessMy burnout story and how to recognize signs of burnoutImportance of self-compassionate reflection in your business5 actionable things you can do to overcome/prevent burnout in your businessResources:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearDownload my Free Instagram makeover e-book - FREE GUIDEDownload Instagram Reels Success guide for more views - FREE GUIDEDownload my 5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBooks mentioned in this episode:Mountain is youThis is how you healEssentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of LessLet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Is Pinterest marketing the right choice for your business? What do you need to know before you start pinning your product/services if you are hoping to use Pinterest as a traffic-driving source for your website?In today's podcast episode, I interviewed my Pinterest manager, Kirsten. Besides valuable insights about Pinterest marketing for small businesses and female-founded brands, Kirsten shares her inspiring and vulnerable entrepreneurial story!In this episode, we'll cover:What are the benefits of Pinterest marketing for small business ownersWhich businesses can leverage Pinterest the mostWays Pinterest Manager can help you with Pinterest marketing for your businessWhat makes Pinterest different from all other marketing platformsWays to connect with Kirsten Tay:Website: https://kirstentay.com/Instagram: @thepinbar_Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/thepinbarMore about Kirsten Tay:Kirsten is the founder and owner of The Pin Bar, a Pinterest marketing business. She focuses on helping female-founded brands grow their community and brand with intentional Pinterest marketing strategies through 1:1 monthly management and strategy sessions.Since 2018, Kirsten worked with various small businesses to elevate their online marketing through the power of Pinterest, to drive traffic to their websites, grow their email marketing, increase product sales, and drastically grow brand awareness online. Her mission is to help as many businesses as possible utilise the most underutilised marketing tool online today (Pinterest!) and grow their businesses while they get back to focusing on their zone of genius.How to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksResources:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearDownload my Free Instagram makeover e-book - FREE GUIDEDownload Instagram Reels Success guide for more views - FREE GUIDEDownload my 5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Have you ever thought about how social media affects your productivity, creativity, and overall satisfaction with your business? Perhaps you find yourself wondering if there's a way to strike a better balance with social media when it plays an important role in your business. If so, you are definitely not alone!As a deeply committed business owner, I've been consistent daily on social media platforms for my business for over three years. But this year, I found myself stuck in a rut. I felt like I needed to unplug completely. Don't post, don't even open ANY social media app. I took three weeks of social media detox that completely changed my relationship with it. This break allowed me to redefine my boundaries, but most importantly, it inspired me to implement more effective systems into my daily and weekly routines.These changes have become invaluable in protecting my time, energy, and overall mindset as a business owner who relies on social media platforms as a traffic-driving source for my business.In this episode, we'll cover:The power of defining personal boundaries with social mediaThe realisation I had during my social media detox break that changed my mindset about social mediaExamples of changes to implement for a healthier relationship with social mediaTips for redefining the role of social media in your life and businessThe importance of protecting your mental clarity as a business ownerResources:Countdown timer I use for social media and work - FIND IT HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HEREDownload my Instagram Reels Success guide for more views - FREE GUIDEDownload my Instagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEDownload my Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEDownload my 5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat: TRY FOR FREE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook group**Visit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinks**Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Have you ever wondered how moms in business do it all? Have you ever felt defeated and overwhelmed by shiny social media "reality" that makes it look like other business owners perhaps have it easier? In today's heartfelt interview with the full-time business owner, hand lettering artist and mom, Danielle Holleran, we will dive into an inspiring and realistic perspective of what is behind the shiny curtain of social media. Danielle is sharing the struggles and mindset shifts she overcame from taking her business full-time and evolving it, so she can work from home while also caring for her baby. As a self-taught hand-lettering artist, Danielle explored several revenue streams to make her business more sustainable. Today she is sharing with us her experience and the valuable lessons she learned along the way.In this episode, we'll cover:Danielle's journey: how she started and evolved her business to prepare for motherhoodThe realistic approach to growing multiple revenue streams in your businessNavigating motherhood and businessThe importance of staying flexible and authentic to yourself to grow a business that feels successful to youResources:Hand lettering sign-making supplies from Danielle - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMichaela's email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearWays to connect with Danielle Holleran:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detailsandswirls/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@detailsandswirlsWebsite: https://detailsandswirls.com/Detailed Diary Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detaileddiarypodcast/Detailed Diary Podcast website: https://detaileddiarypodcast.com/More about Danielle Holleran:Danielle is the owner and artist behind Details and Swirls. Besides her hand lettering business, where she creates custom pieces for home decor, seasonal collections, milestone collections for nurseries and wedding rental signage in Rhode Island, she also guides small business owners to achieve their small business dreams through weekly podcast episodes, small business resources and courses. Danielle also provides resources for hand-lettering business owners and shares behind-the-scenes content on her social media platforms as a full-time work-from-home small business mom.How to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Join our private Facebook group here.This is a private Facebook group I started exclusively for our podcast listeners, ambitious small business owners with an action-taking attitude like you. Let's dive deeper into our podcast conversations and support each other on Facebook now.Are negative comments online ever making you doubt yourself? Are you afraid to show up confidently for your business because of fear of criticism from your customers, family and followers? In today's podcast episodes, I am diving into how I went from letting others walk over my confidence to dealing with negative criticism with peace. I talk about the mindset shift I made and share practical steps you can do to be proactive instead of being over-reactive when negative comments come. In this episode, we'll cover:Ways to deal with negative feedback from customers and people on social mediaThree tips that helped me handle negative comments with more peaceHow to create an action plan and prepare yourself for handling negative commentsPractical steps to save your energy when your family is unsupportive about your small business and social media Resources:15% off my social media Canva templates from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HEREInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Struggling to get customers for your small business online? Chances are that you are making one of these three fundamental mistakes in your business.In today's episode, I am sharing the lessons I learned from mistakes I made when I started my first small business that kept me busy and stuck! These are the very same mistakes many overwhelmed and struggling small business owners make when they reach out to me for help. The best part? It's never too late to fix it! In this episode, we'll cover:My approach to goal setting that sets you up for successThe power of understanding the need within your niche if you want to get consistent sales to your business Components of basic marketing strategy every small business owner need to get sales onlineResources:Download Instagram reels guide for more views - FREE GUIDEDownload Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEDownload Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEMy email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearRelated episodes:E17: What is a niche, and why do you need it if you want your small business to grow faster - LISTEN HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Ever wonder what tools I use for my business and how? You know, when it comes to productivity and marketing tools that save time and deliver results, I am in! In today's podcast episode, I am sharing with you my top five favourite tools I use in my business, together with why and how I use them. These tools have saved me lots of time and allowed me to be more professional and connect deeper with my customers. In this episode, we'll cover:Five marketing & productivity tools I use for my businessMy favourite ways to use Canva for product & service-based online businessHow I use ChatGPT to save me time and mental energy My journey to switching to organisation system Notion for business & lifeTools mentioned in this episode:My email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearFREE TRIAL of my Instagram # research tool Flick Tech (affiliate link)Canva graphic design website (free): canva.comChatGPT (free): TRY HEREMy business organization system Notion (free): TRY HERE15% off my social media Canva templates from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HEREResources:Download Instagram reels guide for more views - FREE GUIDEDownload Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEDownload Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Download Free Instagram reels guide for more views hereDo you ever find yourself frustrated with low reel views? Chances are that you are not applying these five basic principles to your small business reels. I see small business owners in our community make these mistakes every day, and most of the time, they are not even aware of it. That's why in today's episode, I am diving into five principles that reels with lots of views have in common. While these principles won't magically make your reels go viral, they are essential for increasing your views because they are based on social media users' psychology. I personally apply these principles in my own reels, and you'll find that many creators with high view counts do too.In this episode, we'll cover:Five reel principles to getting more views based on social media users' psychology The power of shareable content that makes your followers want to share your posts with othersWhat is a hook, and how to use it to capture your follower's attentionThe simple trick to keep your followers attention through the reelResources:Download Instagram reels guide for more views - FREE GUIDEFREE TRIAL of my Instagram helper Flick (affiliate link)Download Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEDownload Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDERelated episodes:E04: Instagram profile makeover for your small business - LISTEN HEREE08: 7 ways to boost Instagram engagement that actually work - LISTEN HEREE15: How to use Instagram stories for your small business - LISTEN HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a productivity slump, feeling unmotivated when working on your small business? In today's podcast episode, I'm diving deep into my personal journey and sharing five powerful changes I made this year in my habits and scheduling. These changes have not only boosted my productivity, but they've also helped me lower overwhelm and find more joy & happiness as a business owner. If you're seeking practical ideas to implement in your morning routine and overcome that unproductive slump, this heartfelt and empowering episode is for you.In this episode, we'll cover:Walkthrough of my morning routine that helps me set the tone for a productive dayThe importance of creating boundaries with social media to minimise distractions and procrastinationThe simple rule that helped me to limit the negative impact of social media on my motivation and productivityHow I streamlined my weekly scheduling process to feel less overwhelmedResources:My email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEBook mentioned in this episode: Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt (affiliate link)Let's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Wondering how you can make the most out of this year's holiday shopping season on Etsy without losing your mind? Curious to learn about how to get more orders and prepare your small business for success?In this episode, I'll share practical lessons I learned from my experience, so you can avoid the pitfalls of last-minute preparations. Join me as we explore actionable steps to maximize your revenue without unnecessary overwhelm. You'll gain practical wisdom and heartfelt advice that will equip you with the tools you need to navigate the holiday frenzy with confidence and peace of mind.In this episode, we'll cover:Five things you can do to maximize your revenue and decrease overwhelm during the holiday shopping seasonThe benefits of offering special holiday bundlesStrategies to boost your revenue during the holiday shopping seasonHow to prepare your Etsy shop for the holiday season and boost searchabilityExamples of holiday social media content you can create to promote your productsWays to enhance customer experience Resources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HEREMy go-to keyword research tool for Etsy Marmalead (affiliate link) - TRY HERE 5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

If you are struggling to get consistent orders on Etsy, this episode is for you. I've been there. In fact, my very first Etsy shop failed and allowed me to learn what NOT to do. I took those lessons, started all over again and grew a multi-six-figure small business on Etsy without even using social media. Today I will dive into three pivotal changes I implemented that took my Etsy shop from zero to becoming my full-time job. From the mindset shifts to strategy and creating an accountability plan - tune in and let me share my "Etsy success secrets" with you. In this episode, we'll cover:3 pivotal changes I made to grow my Etsy shop from 0 to my full-time jobMindset shift I had to go through before I was able to get consistent ordersThe accountability plan that allowed me to focus on my progress instead of getting defeated when I wasn't getting sales yetHow I said goodbye to luck marketing and decided to grow my small business with strategyResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

If you've ever found yourself struggling to remember to post on your small business social media accounts, or if you are feeling overwhelmed by the demands of social media, this episode is for you. In today's episode, I am sharing five things that have allowed me to post consistently without rushing. I used to despise social media in the early days of my business because of how much time it used to take me and due to a lack of systems. I'll guide you through practical tips which will make content creation easier and help you stay consistent with your small business. In this episode, we'll cover:The importance of having a posting schedule for your social media How have I managed to stay consistent for over three years now Five actionable steps to help you stay consistent with your small business social mediaHow healing your relationship with social media can help you achieve your goalsResources:Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEFREE TRIAL of my Instagram helper Flick (affiliate link)Branding checklist for your small business by Michaela - FREE GUIDEFive steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMY TRIPOD & content recording equipment (affiliate link)Related episodes:E04: Instagram profile makeover for your small business - LISTEN HEREE08: 7 ways to boost Instagram engagement that actually work - LISTEN HEREE11: 3 Things I did to grow over 150K followers on Instagram organically in one year - LISTEN HEREE15: How to use Instagram stories for your small business - LISTEN HERELet's connect:Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

If you've heard about the importance of having a niche but still find yourself wondering what it is and how to find the perfect niche for your small business, then this podcast episode is for you. In this podcast episode, I'll dive deep into the concept of a niche and how choosing a niche strategically can supercharge your small business growth. I will also share practical tips about how to choose a niche for your small business. In this episode, we'll cover:The importance of choosing a niche and how it can speed up your small business growthSimplifying the concept of a niche and debunking misconceptionsTips for finding and choosing your nicheExamples and my personal experiences of the benefits of niching downResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you thinking about switching from Etsy to Shopify? Or perhaps from Shopify to Etsy? Maybe you are just starting your small business and you are confused about which selling platform to choose.I've grown a full-time small business on both of them. Today I am here to give you a realistic perspective & explain the most important facts you need to know about Etsy & Shopify, so you can choose the platform that fits your needs the most.In this episode, we'll cover:The key differentiating factor between Etsy & Shopify, that most small business owners don't understand Pros & Cons of two popular E-commerce platforms - Etsy vs. ShopifyQuestions you should ask yourself when choosing which selling platform is the right one for your businessResources:Etsy competition research tool Everbee (affiliate link) - TRY HERE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

If you are still struggling to figure out what to post on Instagram stories for your small business and how to get more of your followers to engage with your stories, this episode is for you. In today's podcast episodes, I am diving into how to use Instagram stories to build trust & boost sales in your small business. I'll also be sharing examples of how to "break the ice" with your audience and what to post so they feel more comfortable engaging with your stories.In this episode, we'll cover:why are Instagram stories important if you want to get more sales from Instagram7 types of stories you should be creating to promote your small business ways to connect with your audience through Instagram stories as a small business owner5 tips for getting more people engaging with your Instagram storiesResources:Instagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEFREE TRIAL of my Instagram helper Flick (affiliate link)Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDERelated episodes:E04: Instagram profile makeover for your small business - LISTEN HEREE08: 7 ways to boost Instagram engagement that actually work - LISTEN HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Tired of blending in with the competition? Curious to learn how crafting an authentic brand story can set your business apart and connect with your ideal customers online? This episode is for you!  In today's interview with a brand messaging strategist and website copywriter, Kathy Young, we will dive into the secrets of intentional brand storytelling and how it can forge genuine connections with your ideal audience. Kathy will provide information on the key elements your website should have to attract your desired customers and offer a complimentary guide on improving your website in just one afternoon!In this episode, we'll cover:What is brand messaging & why should you care about how you communicate on social media, emails, websites - all the places for your small business.How intentional brand storytelling can connect with your ideal audience onlineWhat are essential components for your website to make sure it speaks to your ideal audienceHow brand messaging strategist can amplify your small business marketingResources:Branding checklist for your small business by Michaela - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMichaela's email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearWays to connect with Kathy Young:Website: rekindlecommunications.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rekindle_communications/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-young/Freebie: 5 Ways to Instantly Improve Your Website Copy in An Afternoon & The Art of Pivoting Your Business & Message More about Kathy Young:Kathy Young, the founder of Rekindle Communications, is a website copywriter and brand strategist that helps thoughtful founders connect to their people through words so they can grow a fulfilling business. Since 2019, she's helped 100+ businesses elevate their messaging to attract high-quality leads, optimize marketing, achieve 6-figure sales launches, and entirely reposition their brands for intentional growth. Between wordsmithing and Chick-fil-a trips, you'll find her on the back patio enjoying a smoky fire pit with her husband and high school sweetheart. How to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Are you struggling to gain followers for your small business? Do you ever wish your content would get more reach so more people can discover your account? In today's episode, I dive deep into the top three common mistakes hindering your follower growth. You'll walk away with actionable steps you can take to improve your small business posts, so you can start creating content that gives your ideal audience a reason to follow you.In this episode, we'll cover:How to create content that gives your ideal customer reason to follow you3 most common mistakes small business owners make in their Instagram posts that result in low reachHow to assess whether your account is worth following for your ideal customerEasy and actionable tips to improve the quality of your small business postsWhat affects your reach, and what can you do to get more views on your reelsResources:E4: Instagram profile makeover podcast episode - LISTEN HEREInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEFREE TRIAL of my Instagram helper Flick (affiliate link)Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Ever wonder what's the difference between small business owners who are crushing their goals and small business owners who “feel stuck”? Today I am sharing with you 8 fundamental principles that help me to achieve my goals, which I also observed as a common pattern amongst successful small business owners I met within the last 2 years in the Small Biz Babes Community. In this episode, we'll cover:Support systems you need to achieve your goals The importance of having a plan and breaking down your goals into actionable steps8 fundamental principles that help me achieve my goals (in life & business)Time awareness tip that helps me make weekly progressActionable steps you can apply to your daily routine that supports your goalsResources:The book mentioned in this episode: What got you here won't get you there (affiliate link)Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMichaela's email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first year (affiliate link)Let's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Want to know how to grow your Instagram account when you have less than 5000 followers? That was me just one year ago when I committed myself to expanding from TikTok to Instagram. My account didn't grow with random viral videos. It grew with a lot of deliberate work and strategy behind it. Today I share with you what I did to grow over 150K followers organically (with no ads) and without an assistant.  In this episode, we'll cover:3 things I did to grow my account to 150k organically (no ads) in one yearImportance of understanding your ideal audience before spending time creating content The four types of posts that should be included in your small business content strategy What does it mean “to be consistent.”Why does consistency matters so much, if you want to grow your small business Instagram account & convert your followers to paying customersHow focusing on your personal progress rather than short-term results can help you stick to through the times when “no one is watching your posts yet.” Resources:FREE TRIAL of my Instagram helper Flick (affiliate link)Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEListen to Episode 3 & give your Instagram Profile MakeoverBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEListen to Episode 2 to define your marketing foundationsWaitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass: JOIN HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Have you ever wondered why being intentional about your small business photography is so important?In today's interview with a brand & family photographer Rania Urban, we will dive into the power of branding photography in attracting your ideal customers and communicating your brand message in marketing. Rania will also share her inspiring story on how she started her business and pivoted through the years as her definition of success changed after she became a mom.In this episode, we'll cover:Rania's journey and how she started her businessHow Rania intentionally pivoted her business to fit her desired lifestyleThe importance of branding photography in your small business marketingThe 5 types of photos every small business owner needs for their marketingResources:Branding checklist for your small business by Michaela - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMichaela's email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearWays to connect with Rania Urban:Website: https://raniaurban.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raniaurbanphotographyMore about Rania Urban:Rania is a lifestyle and documentary photographer in Langley, BC. With a background in business and marketing, she has been running her successful portrait business, Rania Urban Photography, for over a decade! Rania has always been an advocate for putting moms in front of the camera, making women feel beautiful in their portraits and leading them to embrace their changing bodies with motherhood. She has been recently specializing in women's empowerment, focusing on kicking the stigma of aging and celebrating the beauty of women of all ages. When she's not empowering women, you can find her in the studio empowering her fellow entrepreneurs, helping them build their online presence through their branding.How to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Curious to learn about key lessons I learned in business this year so far?In today's episode, I am taking you behind the scenes and sharing business decisions I made, including those I would not do again! Sharing this as a reminder that behind shiny wins and accomplishments, there are always powerful lessons that come with them - the lessons we maybe didn't expect, the lessons that may slow us down, but they are necessary to go through, so we can grow forward and make our goals happen in business and life.In this episode, we'll cover:3 best decisions I made in business this year3 things I did this year that I would not do again nor recommend you doing it in your businessHow letting go of people's opinions allowed me to follow my biggest goals, despite the criticism and judgment I got for itthe importance of asking for help in your businessLessons I learned through hiring so farResources:15% off my social media Canva templates from the Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HEREInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Struggling with low Instagram engagement for your business? Wish you knew how to build a deeper connection with your audience? I've got you! Today I am sharing with you seven algorithm-proof tactics to boost your Instagram engagement and bond with your audience that actually works. No hacks, just genuine and proven tactics you can start applying to your small business today!In this episode, we'll cover:How to “break the ice” and make your followers more comfortable to engageThe importance of connecting with your audience on a personal level & examples of how to do itContent ideas to boost your engagementActionable steps you can take to make your audience interested in your contentHow to work with Instagram algorithm to get more views & engagementResources:Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEFREE TRIAL of my Instagram helper Flick (affiliate link)Branding checklist for your small business by Michaela - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMichaela's email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearLet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Ever struggle with motivation or fear of failure? Then this podcast is for you.Today, I am diving deep into a topic that hits close to home for many of us. From staying motivated and rising from setbacks to asking for help and how to plan to make your goals happen - in this podcast episode, I will be answering questions small business owners submitted on Instagram stories for today's Q&A episode.Questions answered in this episode:How do I plan my years to make my goals happen?How do I stay motivated?How do I rise back from setbacks or failure?How to create a connection with your audience when you are uncomfortable showing up on camera?How many team members do I have, and how did I find them?Resources:Instagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDEBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDESave on my email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearLet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group for ambitious small business owners here.Visit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Have you ever felt like you are behind, no matter how hard you work on your small business? This episode is for you!   The shiny world of social media can make us feel like we're never doing enough or accomplishing our goals fast enough, no matter the effort we put into our business. I definitely experience this feeling at times, and in today's podcast episode, I delve into the topic of "feeling behind" and share how I navigate through it.I'll guide you through my process of overcoming this feeling so that you can move forward with action, confidence, and the understanding that you are exactly where you need to be today to become the person and business owner you aspire to become.In this episode, we'll cover:How to handle feeling like we are not good enoughMy process of overcoming negative comparison and turning it into a self-discovery learning lessonHow I keep showing up even when things get tough Resources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMy email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearLet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Download your Free Branding Checklist for your small business here.You can use it to elevate branding for your online business so your marketing resonates with the right people.Did you know that your branding either attracts or repels your potential customers? Do you ever wonder how your business can stand out from the crowd when there is so much competition? Do you feel like your marketing may not be resonating with the right audience?In today's podcast episode, we will dive into the power of intentional branding and how it can help you attract your ideal customers online. I will also walk you through my branding checklist you can download and use to level up branding for your business.In this episode, we'll cover:What is branding, and why do you need it for your small businessWalkthrough of branding checklist for your businessHow can your branding help you connect with your ideal customers onlineWhy your words are as important as the visuals for your businessPeek behind the scenes from Small Biz Babes Community's rebrandingResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDEMy email marketing platform: Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearLet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Download your Free Instagram Makeover E-book here.This is a step-by-step pdf E-book that will help you transform your profile in 5 simple steps, so you can start attracting your ideal audience on Instagram today.Your Instagram profile creates a first impression about your business. It either resonates with your potential customers or it makes them click away. And we don't want that, right?In today's podcast episode, I'll guide you through 5 steps you can apply and improve  your Instagram profile today. By the end of this episode, you'll have a complete Instagram profile makeover that will help you stand out from the competition and connect with the right people.In this episode, we'll cover:Optimizing your Instagram profile to improve your profile searchabilityHow to create an Instagram bio that attracts your ideal customers/clientsThe importance of connecting with your audience on a personal level on your Instagram profileHow to make it easier for your audience to buy from youThe role of the most important elements of your Instagram profileResources:Free Instagram makeover e-bookFree trial of my Instagram helper FlickLet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Join our private Facebook group here.This is a brand new Facebook group I started exclusively for our podcast listeners, ambitious small business owners with an action-taking attitude like you. Let's dive deeper into our podcast conversations and support each other on Facebook now.Do you ever feel like your relationship with your husband is taking a toll because of the time you pour into your business? Do you have a hard time balancing your relationship and business responsibilities? Do you sometimes wish your partner could be more understanding or supportive of your goals?You are not alone! In this episode, my husband and I will be answering questions we received about relationships and business on Instagram stories.In this episode, we'll cover:Ways to prioritize your relationship with intentional scheduling and boundariesHow open communication can supercharge your relationship and make your partner support you in your goalsBeing able to compromise in your relationship and see the other's point of viewAdjustments we have made to ensure that our love tank is filled throughout the yearUnderstanding your partner might not be able to help you which is why you should build a community outside your relationshipResources:Instagram Profile Makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Join our private Facebook group here.This is a brand new Facebook group I started exclusively for our podcast listeners, ambitious small business owners with an action-taking attitude like you. Let's dive deeper into our podcast conversations and support each other on Facebook now.Do you ever feel like your marketing efforts aren't producing the outcomes you hoped for? Are you tired of putting in the work, yet still struggling to achieve consistent sales for your business? In today's episode, I will share three significant mistakes you are likely making when you don't see the desired results from your marketing efforts.I made these mistakes when I started my business, completely unaware that they were the main reasons behind my struggle to generate consistent sales. I see small business owners in our community making these mistakes every day, and I want to bring awareness to them in case you are unknowingly making them too.In this episode, we'll cover:How the importance of knowing who exactly your ideal customer is can help you earn more, save time and be a happier business ownerWhat is branding, and why do you need to be intentional about it if you want to attract your ideal customers onlineWhere to stop wasting time in your business if you want to earn more profitsResources:Instagram Profile Makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Join our private Facebook group here.This is a brand new Facebook group I started exclusively for our podcast listeners, ambitious small business owners with an action-taking attitude like you. Let's dive deeper into our podcast conversations and support each other on Facebook now.In today's episode, I share the story behind this podcast, how I got here and why I started the Small Biz Babes Community.I break down important pivotal stages of my journey as an immigrant in a new country following the dream that once felt impossible. From starting and growing a business from living room floor to creating a Small Biz Babes Community, to now helping women around the world to build a business and life they truly love.In this episode, we'll cover:The importance of believing in that gut feeling when it is telling you that you are meant for moreHow resourcefulness and resilience can change your life no matter the outside circumstancesPivotal moments when letting go of security & comfort zone opened doors I never thought would be possible for meLessons on my business journey that made me realize that success isn't just about making moneyThe reason I closed a successful product-based business to run this community full-time without burnoutThe importance of building your business with intention, based on your definition of successResources:You are Badass (Jen Sincero) - the book that motivated me to ditch all excuses and change my life (affiliate link)Instagram Profile Makeover - FREE GUIDE5 steps to Etsy Success - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.