The Long Game Podcast with Sandra Scaiano

In a world full of "I'll do it tomorrow" and "my expertise isn't enough," today's podcast episode is a breath of fresh air. Sandra Scaiano welcomes Allison Lane who flips the script and disarms the doubters, helping women step into their power and pen their bestselling narratives. With her bold "stop pretending you're not a badass" approach, Allison reveals why so many brilliant women delay sharing their wisdom and how to break through those self-imposed barriers. If you've been thinking "someday I'll write that book," this conversation will change your perspective and show you why the time to claim your authority is NOW! "There is nothing that's so diminishing as 'I wouldn't call myself an expert.' First of all, it's not up to you. You don't get to choose. Everyone else is looking to you for advice. You're an expert." – Allison Lane What You'll Learn: The surprising reason you shouldn't write your book first (this counter-intuitive advice could save you months of wasted effort!) How to craft a compelling book proposal that attracts literary agents and publishers Why thinking too small might be your biggest obstacle to becoming a published author The key differences between podcast appearances and traditional media coverage Why your personal favorite podcasts aren't necessarily the best platforms for your message Smart strategies for building lasting relationships with journalists How to position yourself for maximum impact in your field "If you know that you have a book in you, that feeling is not gonna go away, and we don't want you to regret not trying. You don't have to build a brand in order to pitch your book. You're already the expert that you need to be." - Allison Lane Links from Today's Episode: Allison's free speaker bio template Author Brand and Bestseller Launch School - Allison's digital course The Author's Edge Podcast - especially episodes 1 & 2 Connect with Allison on LinkedIn Previous guests who've worked with Allison: Tracy Otsuko and Miriam Schulman Allison's advice isn't just about writing; it's about embracing your story and sharing it with the world. Stop waiting for permission. The Long Game is about playing smart, showing up, doing the work, and making a real impact. Listen at The Long Game website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the way to kick off 2025! Let it be a stress controlled year! If you've been wondering how to get off the hamster wheel of stress and overwhelm, this episode is going to be your roadmap to taking back control. There is no reason to continue pushing through without a system to manage the mounting pressures of life, business, and everything in between. My guest today is Dr. Camilla Moore, who looks beyond surface-level stress to tackle its root causes using Harvard-proven strategies that cut burnout symptoms by 40%.  As a physician and wellness expert, she helps busy professionals and business owners replace scattered self-care attempts with clear, actionable systems. Dr. Moore's approach stands out because she doesn't just offer quick fixes or trendy tips. She digs deep into the science of stress, helping us understand the crucial differences between acute stress, chronic stress, and burnout - because you can't solve a problem you don't fully understand. Our conversation takes us through the unique stressors of running a service-based business, the impact of hormones on stress levels, and how to leverage technology to create a more sustainable work life. We talk about everything from sleep hygiene to AI tools that can help reduce your workload. Whether you're feeling the squeeze of the sandwich generation - caring for both kids and parents - or trying to build a business while maintaining your health, we're talking practical strategies to help you excel without the exhaustion. Dr. Moore offers real solutions for common challenges like: How to identify your unique stress triggers Ways to create multiple revenue streams without burning out Practical steps to improve your sleep quality This is essential listening for anyone who wants to address their stressors and move forward with awareness. The Long Game is... Taking control of stress before it controls you with Dr. Camilla Moore. The Wellness Cabinet Website Dr. Moore on LinkedIn Take the How Stressed ARE You quiz with a free 1:1 with Dr. Moore: https://bit.ly/41t9Kck Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Less than 2% of women have broken the million-dollar mark in their business and my guest today is on a mission to change that through helping business owners understand and engage with their marketing better. This episode is full on, marketing for entrepreneurs that you need to hear! My guest is Victoria Hajjar, the founder of Ugli Ventures - business can be ugly and she's helping entrepreneurs make it beautiful. Clever. An entrepreneur herself, Victoria knows what it is like to be the person wearing so many hats, with little to no support. She teaches the marketing playbook she wishes she had as she began her marketing journey 15 years ago. A Google and Hubspot certified expert, Victoria runs the popular Podcast “The Scalable Marketing Machine” and has been featured on CNN and in numerous webinars and forums.  We're tackling the overwhelm many business owners face when it comes to marketing, how messaging is woven into this, and what you really need to understand to grow your business with marketing. We Discuss: The 4 pillars to Victoria's marketing framework  Iteration is everything. Small shifts in messaging can hugely impact conversion rates and the art of continuous improvement.  Solopreneur social media marketing mistakes  Social Media algorithm updates. This will make you think about the content you are creating. Embrace the "10% shift" and watch your marketing efforts soar. - Victoria Hajjar I love this marketing conversation. It's smart, realistic and will give you confidence to go out there and do what you need to grow. The Long Game is… Marketing Overwhelm to ROI with Victoria Hajjar. CONNECT WITH US The Long Game Podcast Website Victoria Hajjar's Website Thank you for listening! If this episode resonated with you, please share it with your friends or leave a review. Both make a big difference.  See you next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Game Podcast, host Sandra Scaiano sits down with Beth Jones, author of "Becoming an Empowered Survivor." Beth shares her transformative journey from trauma survivor to healing mentor, discussing the challenges of balancing personal healing with professional responsibilities and the concept of "Second Mountain Ascension." Learn how Beth is creating a movement to support other survivors and her experience with self-publishing her powerful story. Beth Jones is an empowered survivor, healing mentor, and author of "Becoming an Empowered Survivor." With a background in professional services and forensic accounting, Beth now dedicates her life to helping other survivors heal from trauma and abuse. Key Points: Healing Journey • Writing as a tool for processing trauma • The "hope, evolve, and love" framework for healing • Viewing healing as a lifelong journey Life-Work Integration • Navigating personal crisis while maintaining professional responsibilities • The importance of transparency in the workplace • Shifting from work-life balance to life-work integration Second Mountain Ascension • Introduction to David Brooks' concept of the "Second Mountain" • Transitioning from self-centered to service-oriented living • The transformative "valley" between mountains Creating a Healing Community • Beth's approach to mentoring and supporting other survivors • The role of vulnerability and authenticity in the healing process • Sharing resources and tools for healing Writing and Self-Publishing • Beth's journey from collaborative to solo author • Challenges of writing about personal trauma • The decision to self-publish and maintain creative control CONNECT WITH US: • The Long Game Podcast Website https://thelonggamepodcast.net • Beth Jone's Website https://empoweredsurvivors.com --- Thank you for listening! If this episode resonated with you, please share it with your friends or leave a review. Both make a big difference. See you next week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Long Game Podcast! I'm your host, Sandra Scaiano. In this episode, we dive into the definition of a “life well lived”. It's a question with countless answers, and today we're exploring it with Sky Bergman, an artist and documentary filmmaker. Sky's documentary, "Lives Well Lived," features interviews with individuals aged 75 to 100, sharing their wisdom and experiences. These interviews cover over 3,000 years of collective experience, revealing secrets and insights to living a meaningful life. From family histories to personal triumphs and tragedies, the film captures the essence of aging with grace and resilience. "Lives Well Lived" premiered at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and has been screened in over 200 cities, winning eight awards. The film is now available on PBS, and organizations like Aging 2.0, AARP's Movies for Grownups, Encore.org, and Leading Age have also showcased it.  In our conversation, Sky shares three common themes essential for a life well lived: a sense of purpose, a sense of community, and resilience. She emphasizes breaking down ageism stereotypes and fostering intergenerational connections for a better society. Sky's journey in creating this film is a testament to following your passion and creative thinking. Sky also discusses how she funded the documentary through unique means, emphasizing the importance of artists being paid for their work. Additionally, she highlights the concept of paying it forward and shares tips for those interested in creating similar projects. If you're inspired by Sky's work, check out her website for a list of starter questions for interviews and a video with tips on lighting, audio, and B-roll. It's a fantastic resource for anyone looking to document and share meaningful stories. Thank you for joining us on The Long Game Podcast. Let's continue to explore what it means to live a life well lived. Until next time, keep playing the long game. LINKS: • Lives Well Lived Film: https://lives-well-lived.com • PBS Learning Media: https://pbslearningmedia.org • Take Action Page: https://lives-well-lived.com/take-action • Book on Amazon]:https://amazon.com CONNECT WITH US: • The Long Game Podcast Website: https://thelonggamepodcast.net --- Thank you for listening! If this episode resonated with you, please share it with your friends or leave a review. Both make a big difference. See you next week! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Long Game, we talk about maintaining control in your business. A lot of business owners today didn't start out as business owners. Often, we've left the corporate world to branch out on our own. We want to let our true talents and abilities shine. The risk that comes with this, however, is that if we fail to set up our processes right, we end up working hard for someone else's vision and lose the power in our own business.  “The more questions you ask, the more expert you look.” - Amy Posner Joining me today is Amy Posner, an experienced online entrepreneur and business coach specializing in helping digital creative freelancers build successful, sustainable businesses. With years of experience in copywriting and coaching, Amy has developed comprehensive programs like the Complete Breakthrough Freelancer to guide professionals in achieving their business goals. The key points we discuss are: Starting your relationship with your clients the right way. It's helpful to see your relationship with your client as a partnership. Set up strategies for maintaining communication to keep clients informed and assured. Setting up and sticking to your processes. Clear processes build client confidence, make your workflow easier, and the entire project go smoother. Sticking to your own processes avoids shifts in power dynamics. Setting and managing expectations. Establishing expectations from the very first interaction helps keep you from falling into the order-taker role. It also communicates that you're the expert, and that you know what you're doing. “You have to get good at something and you have to be willing to be bad at something to get good at something.” - Amy Posner Amy acknowledges that building a successful business as a freelancer takes time. It requires building the right foundations, thinking things through and playing the long game. Connect with Amy Posner: Website Instagram Twitter LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Game podcast, I'm diving deep into understanding human nature and behavior, and learning how we can apply it in our digital businesses. Ever heard of the Hawthorne Effect? Well, applying this century-old observation will change your approach to online courses and memberships for the better. The Hawthorne Effect came from studies of behaviors in the workplace from nearly a century ago. It refers to the phenomenon where individuals behave better and improve their work when they know that they are being observed or watched. But this is only good in the short term. Over time, mental attitudes, proper supervision, and informal social relationships experienced in the workplace proved to be the key to improved productivity. “When we dig in and we find the data backing up our claims, it opens up a whole new arena of confidence in our approach.” – Sandra Scaiano How can we apply these studies in developing our courses and programs, and in all aspects of our business?  Here are 3 practical steps: Establish a system of accountability Keep in touch  Track progress “Value is not more time online. Value is helping your students move through the material.” - Sandra Scaiano By leveraging our knowledge of the Hawthorne Effect and other behavioral studies, content and program creators can make sure they develop a dynamic learning environment that empowers and encourages participants to finish their goals and succeed. Understanding human behavior is key to driving engagement and maximizing the impact of our online offerings. It's when we know, understand, and apply that we get to improve what we produce and keep playing the long game. Important Links: https://www.library.hbs.edu/hc/hawthorne/anewvision.html#e https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-hawthorne-effect-2795234 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of The Long Game talks all about messaging and is a must-hear for all business owners. Messaging is at the crux of all our communication: sales, social media, networking, even introductions. Today, Wendy White will be sharing everything we need to know to have effective messaging. “The reason people aren't clear to the world is they're not clear to themselves.” - Wendy White Wendy is a messaging strategist to coaches and consultants who are ready to become thought leaders. She helps business owners communicate what they do and why it matters. She worked in international sales & business development, winning clients for many companies. Since then, she's worn many hats, but she kept on doing what she's good at, communicating a clear message that talks about the business and attracts the right clients. In this episode, we talk about: How getting your messaging right (or wrong) affects your marketing The details that go into your introduction Clarity and concept before copy Using A.I. in messaging and marketing The problem with unclear messaging is that you end up sounding just like everyone else. Your audience can't figure out exactly what you do, who you work with, or who you are. You try to keep up with the ever-changing trends, SEOs and algorithms but still fail to communicate your message to the people who need to hear them. “You have to connect what you do to why it matters to them.” - Wendy White Crafting your messaging is more than just about being clear about what you do. Underneath that lies key paradigm shifts that empower you in your business and any kind of communication you'll have. Being clear about your own business makes you a better business owner, and it brings you closer to being that thought leader you want to be. Connect with Wendy White: Website Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Instant Impact Workshop Extraordinary Impact® Accelerator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Service business owners always need a strategy. It's foundational to their business and a part of their work process. It impacts how clients work with them and the quality of service they provide. The problem is that way too often, strategy ends up getting buried under services. As a result, clients don't appreciate their work, they feel underappreciated, and they don't charge as much as they should for the value they provide. Today I'm joined by Maggie Patterson, who'll share her experience and expertise in business strategies.  With two decades of experience, Maggie has spent her career in client services and entrepreneurship. She's the editorial director at Scoop Studios and the founder of BS Free Business, where she works with service-based businesses and agency owners to build BS-free businesses that put trust first in everything they do. Maggie is a podcaster, writer, and vocal advocate for humane business practices rooted in respect, empathy, and trust. As a former freelancer turned agency owner, she knows exactly what it takes to make it when building a business offering services. “Your strategy should be firmly set and semi-rigid.” - Maggie Patterson Maggie shares some important points about strategy: Showcasing your strategy Valuing your strategy Preparing to sell your strategy Going beyond strategy talk, Maggie pulls from her decades' worth of experience and shares how important it is to trust your gut and stick to what's important to you. You don't need to follow every hyped-up advice from a business influencer. You don't need to work with a client who doesn't value you. You don't need to sell in a way that feels uncomfortable for you. You're the business owner. You get to decide how you want to run your business in a way that aligns with your values and goals and still be successful. “The people playing the long game are the people you want to align with.” - Maggie Patterson This episode is full of amazing insights from Maggie. She freely shares her experience and expertise to help business owners make the most out of their strategy by playing The Long Game. Connect with Maggie Patterson: Website Instagram Podcast: Duped: The Dark Side of Online Business   BS-Free Service Business Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we hear “content repurposing,” most of us think of taking long-form content like a podcast or a webinar and cutting it up into reels or shorts or turning it into a LinkedIn or blog post. That's an outdated idea of content repurposing. Today, you can take in anything you do in the day-to-day of your business—company meetings, coaching calls, strategy sessions—look at them from a different perspective and turn them into other forms of content: courses, lead magnets, newsletters, social media posts, or even action tasks.  “Content repurposing is multifaceted.” - Greg Wasserman To talk about this new definition of content repurposing, I'm joined by Greg Wasserman, head of growth partnerships and community at CastMagic, an AI platform transforming content repurposing for podcasters, coaches, speakers, and marketers. With CastMagic, entrepreneurs can upload their media files, either their podcasts, meeting recordings, talks, seminars, or voice notes, and with different prompts, generate ideas on how to present them in a new way. Greg also talks about: The different facets of content repurposing Utilizing your existing content library The long game of content creation “Invest in learning not only your tool, your craft, but also what others are doing so that you can improve.” - Greg Wasserman As business owners, we think we have to keep coming up with the next great thing, but what if you already came up with a great thing that will elevate your business? Repurposing isn't just for your marketing, but it can also be applied to your business as a whole, and help you optimize your time and work. Connect with CastMagic: Website Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Connect with Greg Wasserman: LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're back with another episode of The Long Game Podcast. Today, we're diving into a topic that's important to our businesses: the business structure. Joining us are Jennie & Meredyth, who together, run their coaching empire for people with impatient ambition who want to accomplish more of what actually matters to them. They help people change their views on productivity, schedule, and freedom to shape their life the way they want to. And today, by sharing their experiences, they'll help you do the same. “Shifting to a place where your commitments are at that no matter what level really means that we have to be realistic.” - Jennie Mustafa-Julock Jennie was a guest on episode 103: Make It Happen with Coach Jennie, when she was known as “Coach Jennie” and Meredyth was helping on the back-end side of the business. But as they recognized the different needs their clients had, and as their lifestyle and goals changed, they decided that their business structure had to change as well. So, they set up a crazy deadline for themselves, changed their branding, updated their systems, processes and services, they turned their business into one that works for them. The three questions Jennie and Meredyth asked themselves as they decided on these changes were: How do we want to be working? How do we want to be marketing?  Who do we want to be influenced by? “75% of what you're already doing is probably going to stay. But making the change of that 25% can just change the game.” - Jennie Mustafa-Julock Making changes to your business can be intimidating. Or it can be this thing you do on the side that never really ends. This episode is proof that if you prioritize the changes and shape your business to serve you, it will be worth it and you can have the life that you want.  Connect with Jennie & Meredyth: Website Instagram YouTube Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hey everyone, Sandra here from The Long Game Podcast! Today we're tackling a big one: burnout. As entrepreneurs, especially those of us in the course and membership site world, we live in launch cycles. Constant selling, content creation, the pressure to keep up... it's enough to make anyone exhausted. But here's the thing: burnout isn't just fatigue. It's a real, WHO-defined syndrome with physical and emotional consequences. Burnout sneaks up on you: it builds gradually. You might find yourself unmotivated, dreading launches, or even questioning your entire business model.  This is your burnout signal: a nudge to change things up. Here's the good news: you have the power to make those changes. As an entrepreneur, you're the boss. Forget "better self-care" - listen to your needs and reimagine your business.  Ditch the one-size-fits-all approach and create a system that works for you. My client story: They launched a successful $2,000 course, but hated the launch cycle. We scrapped it and built a hybrid approach, selling their existing content in a new way. Now, they're excited and fulfilled! Remember: Don't just push through: acknowledge your burnout and let it motivate change. Think creatively: tweak your systems, present your offers uniquely, and embrace innovation. Breaks are important: rest, exercise, eat well, and sleep to fuel your creative thinking. Burnout is a cycle: break it by making lasting changes. Feeling stuck? You're not alone. Tune in for more on creative thinking to keep your business (and you) energized! Key takeaways: Burnout is a real syndrome, not just fatigue. Listen to your burnout signal and make changes. Create your own business system, not a copycat. Embrace creative thinking and innovation. Break the burnout cycle with lasting changes. Don't let burnout win! Turn it into flow and build a business that works for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of The Long Game is a continuation of episode 184 where I shared the story about getting an invite to attend a panel discussion on writing about trauma, and how my schedule conflicted with the panel, and I wouldn't be able to attend. Well, as a happy end to the story, I was able to attend the panel after all, and it was so fulfilling to be in a space that invited me to think and reflect. It inspired and encouraged me.  Here are 5 key takeaways from this panel discussion: Term of survival, concept of hope, and healing Explicitness  Relationship between trauma and empathy Being clear with your personal boundaries Using form and structure to move through trauma “Keep at your story and keep digging deeper into telling it.” -Sandra Scaiano It's amazing that we've developed a culture where we can openly share our experiences without the stigma around trauma. These stories are everywhere; in social media, books, and pop culture, but this doesn't take away from your own story. Each story is different and equally important. When we share our stories and hear other's, it lets us know that we're not alone.  Dr. Roxane Gay  Leslie Jamison  Tochi Onyebuchi  Jacqueline Woodson  If Everything Is Trauma Is Anything? The Trauma Plot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As business owners, joining business or industry events is part of the game. We get to build connections, engage in the community, and participate in groups to stay on top of the latest trends, developments, and news. Sometimes, as much as we'd like to join these events, we just can't. And the reason why may be because of the season of life we're in, which is what we're exploring today; the idea of having different seasons of life, and how important it is to live in each one.  “I can't have it all right now. I'm choosing my priorities.” -Sandra Scaiano Today I share a recent story about receiving an invitation to an event I want to go to and balancing that with my other roles.  Also discussed: Designing our own seasons The importance of each season Maximizing opportunities at any time I'm not trapped in the world I created and the season I'm in. I'm here because I want to be here.” -Sandra Scaiano Each season is important and a part of our journey. Take some time to think about all the seasons you lived through and how they brought you to where you are now. And remember, every season brings its own experiences and challenges, and they all contribute to the person you're becoming. It's all part of the long game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A lot of business owners rely heavily on email marketing to connect and engage with their customers. But did you know that on February 1st, there will be a new rule book on emails, and it'll be harder to get into people's inboxes?  This could be bad news if you've spent a lot of time and resources building your email list, but it doesn't have to be! Joining us today to guide us through the changes Google, Yahoo (and soon others as well) are making is Cheryl Rerick. She's an email marketing strategist, automation engineer, and creator of the Automate and Chill™ method. Cheryl will lay out the changes that will happen and explain in easy terms the authentication process we can do to make sure our email gets into those inboxes. We also discuss: Email Automation Welcome sequences Trends vs Data “You can't have blanket strategies, because the truth is everything works, and nothing works.” - Cheryl Rerick Cheryl also shares some email strategies we can apply, but her biggest advice is about your email list. Know what your customers want, and from there, you can build your strategies. There's no one right way to write an email. Listen in to hear all of Cheryl's tips, and if you want a more in-depth explanation of the new rules, you can attend Cheryl's on-demand webinar. Connect with Cheryl Rerick: Website Facebook Instagram Email Deliverability Webinar Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first episode of the new year! And what better way to start than talking all about goals. Did you know that 93% of people fail within 30 days of setting their goals? Today, we break down goal setting to make sure that we're not part of the majority who end up quitting. “We work with people to change their thoughts so that they can achieve their goals.” - Abbie Schiller Joining us today is Abbie Schiller. Abbie is a professional goal coach, founder & CEO of The Mother Company, and a manifester. As a coach, she's deeply invested in improving the lives of others. She's also the creator of Visioning, a revolutionary course that helps people take an honest look at the results in their lives and decide what and how they want to change. Abbie introduces us to the concept of "kind goals." Unlike the rigid, strict goals we're used to, kind goals allow us to be flexible and adjust. They have a have Plan B. Kind goals are fun and connected to who you are and serve who you want to be and bring you closer to the life you want to achieve. Also discussed in this episode: The relationship between success, failure, and lessons Anticipating obstacles and building resilience The necessary skill of embracing discomfort The importance of support and community Abbie also addresses some of the reasons why people give up their goals—lack of clarity, unexpected challenges, undefined steps, or lack of support system. She gives easy, applicable tips on how to deal with them. “Water boils at 212 degrees. What degree are you giving up at?” - Abbie Schiller It's possible to not quit the gym when February comes, or give in to your cravings a week into your new diet. Goals can be achievable and kind at the same time. You can hit your milestones while enjoying the journey. The key is in starting right and playing the long game.  Connect with Abbie Schiller: Website Instagram LinkedIn The Visioning Course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you noticed a big gap in resources in your industry? Have you ever had an idea that would make things easier or more efficient?  You're going to love my guest this week. In this episode Jane Goodrich, an accomplished photographer who has expanded her business by creating customized software called Picsello joins me to talk about her long game experience taking her idea from concept to development to product launch. Jane talks about her journey from marketing to photography, her experience mentoring other photographers, and the motivation behind creating Picsello. The software serves as an all-in-one back-end solution for photographers, helping them with pricing, selling, and streamlining their business processes.  This is a great example of seeing a need and figuring out a way to help others succeed. Jane has a passion for photography and she's equally passionate about helping other photographers make a living doing work they love.  Jane discusses the challenges she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, her initial idea of teaching a course about photography pricing, and how she pivoted to develop Picsello. The conversation covers the development process, including the initial idea, seeking advice from tech experts, choosing an American development company, and the importance of a strong team. She's also upfront about how long it took and why her background in marketing gave her a leg up when working with the development team.  The interview emphasizes the educational aspect of Picsello aiming to help photographers understand the business side of their profession. Jane explains the software's features, including automated emails, client questionnaires, and a business mastermind community. She highlights the importance of customer feedback in shaping the software's roadmap and mentions the joy she finds in helping photographers succeed. Jane also shares insights into managing her time between photography, software development, and personal health challenges. She emphasizes the value of staying connected to the client services realm to understand market needs and enhance the software's offerings. In true Long Game style, this conversation provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to extend their brand through software development and emphasizes the significance of community building and continuous learning in the process. Picsello Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I am so excited because we have a return guest. It's interesting to see the transformation and growth since my last conversation with her.  Today I'm talking with Tracy Otsuka, who is a certified ADHD coach and the host of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, the podcast, which has had an amazing 5 million downloads. She also moderates a Facebook group by the same name with nearly 100,000 members!  Tracy is releasing her book ADHD for Smart Ass Women on December 26. I am beyond thrilled to have her to talk to us about everything that's going on.   Tracy explains that whenever she has conversations about ADHD, lives are changed. There's a brilliant woman with ADHD out there who is thinking, this isn't me. By the end of this podcast, she's going to say, that IS me!  Hear how Tracy decided to go with the name ADHD for Smart Ass Women. I wanted to know if there's any push back or problems with that or has it been a plus for her. She explains that being an outsider is part of who she is as a person, and it's part of her brand as well. Are some people put off by the name? Maybe, but overall, it's been a positive.  Tracy also talks about being diagnosed with ADHD later in life and how common that is, especially for women. There are a few reasons for that, and she also explains how the lifestyle changes we all experienced during COVID had an impact as well.  One myth Tracy has busted is that having ADHD means you're not intelligent or can't learn. That's completely the opposite of her experience. Drivenness is a form of hyperactivity. If you are an entrepreneur or a woman always on the go coming up with new ideas and having success with lots of different things and possibly struggle with mundane easy-to-do tasks, then you may want to see if you have ADHD.  ADHD brains are focused on interest, not importance. It's a big distinction that shows up in lots of ways, both positive and negative.  Tracy outlines 3 things to look for if you think you may have ADHD and how it manifests in women and girls differently than in men and boys. This is eye-opening!  Be sure to check out the discussion about being diagnosed. Who makes those calls? Should you find out or does it matter? What steps can you take and how will it impact your health? Tracy provides loads of insight here that will help simplify any next steps you might want to take.  This entire conversation is so helpful, and fun. Big thanks to Tracy for coming back. I hope you'll all get a copy of her book and let me know what resonates for you. Episode 20 with Tracy Otsuka Get the Book  ADHD for Smart Ass Women Facebook Group Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're winding down 2023 so I'm doing a look back and a look ahead.  Listen in as I review the trends that defined 2023 and look forward to the exciting developments to expect in 2024 for entrepreneurs.  From the rise of super niche online summits to the growing demand for authenticity, we uncover the strategies that will shape the future of business. But as we navigate these trends, I can't help but wonder what will this mean for the long game of business and life? Here are a few of the topics that made an impact for me and my clients. I'm sharing how things worked, and what made a difference on a number of topics.  1) The need to stay up to date. Things change and evolve and as small business owners we have to do the same. 2) Online summits. They make an impact when they are done well, and they are evolving too. 3) Masterminds aren't new but it seems they are more popular than ever. I'm not surprised. The ability to connect with others and get some support and perspective from business peers is something I've always found helpful. 4) Digital marketing can't exist, it seems without the manipulative tactics and guru-driven promises that everyone, everywhere can have million-dollar results in a few easy steps. It impacts all of us who are marketing with integrity.  Additionally, I review the prominence of artificial intelligence (AI) in everyday life and its implications for entrepreneurs. Ignoring the impact and inevitability isn't a strategy. It's only going to become more prevalent.  We'll continue to see improvements and additional capabilities. What are you doing to learn how it impacts your world? I think we've got to adapt and grow and using AI where it makes sense and I want to make sure I know how it can be helpful to me and my clients.  I also know there also are lots of discussions about ethics and the legal impacts too. Lots more coming in 2024 on all of this.  I'm also breaking down my thoughts on the impact of the new Google Analytics that was rolled out. Tracking and measuring is important so as business owners we have to adapt to the changes and leverage the opportunities the GA4 brings to SEO strategies.  As we ring in the new year with new possibilities, keep playing the long game in your business and life as well. You know, it's that journey that matters the most. I am thrilled to have you all along for the ride with me. Thank you for listening. I'll see you next week. Episode 158 Summits Episode 124 Artificial Intelligence Episode 125 Artificial Intelligence Episode 152 Google Analytics 4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unleash your creative potential and defy societal expectations as guest Cara Steinman challenges the norms, embraces messiness, and empowers business owners to think boldly and authentically, igniting a battle between conformity and innovation. Cara Steinman is a highly accomplished business development strategist, community builder, and certified meditation and mindfulness coach. She has dedicated her career to creating online spaces that empower women entrepreneurs to build successful businesses while prioritizing their mental health.  Through her renowned community, the Literation Lab, Cara provides a platform for women to cultivate their creative confidence and express themselves through writing. With her extensive expertise in creativity and confidence-building, Cara has become a trusted resource for business owners seeking to break free from conventional thinking and implement innovative ideas.  What is Creative Confidence?  The definition that Cara shares is believing in your ability to change the world around you. If you think about it, that's your future. That's the business you're building, the offers you're creating. You have to have the creativity and the confidence to put them out there. Business as flow. Creative confidence gets squeezed out of us. Cara shares the NASA study of 1600 kids who were considered creative geniuses at age 5. You'll be blown away when you hear what happened to their creativity at age 20.  When we allow our creativity to flow, we unlock new ideas and new ways to look at our work, and our entire world. 4 Fears that impact our creative confidence:  Fear of the messy unknown. Fear of being judged. Fear of the first step. Fear of losing control.  Cara explains how we've forgotten how to find our own answers. Finding answers via google or following the formula that someone else created is a shortcut but we might be missing an even better solution if we noodled on it and really gave some thought to how we might create our own answer.  Creativity and confidence are both muscles. The more you use them, especially without getting criticized, the more they grow. It's one of the reasons why community can help. Being with people who are interested in supporting one another makes it easier to take a chance on yourself.  The creative spark.  I asked Cara how the Literation Lab helps grow creativity. She shares daily prompts for her audience and herself and they write them for the group to read if they feel comfortable, it's not required. The prompts are in 7 research-backed pillars to help unlock and grow your confidence while you are being creative.  Mistakes and messiness and letting perfection go.  Life is messy and what if we just allowed the mess and kept moving? What if we learn what we need from having tried instead of worrying about what was wrong. There's a freedom that comes from being confident, knowing it's not about perfection, it's about trying new things and seeing what happens.  Being creative is a practice, like writing or designing. Confidence comes when we give ourselves permission to jump into action and tap into the genius we have inside.  Connect with Cara  Literation Lab Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's world, it's never been easier to implement a new idea, start a new venture, or build up a new business. But it's also never been more intimidating. There are countless resources telling you how something should be done, and the market can seem incredibly saturated with so many competitors, ads, experts, and millions of content creators. It's easy to get overwhelmed. If intimidation and fear are getting to you, this episode is going to be your boost of encouragement. Our guest is Ben Albert. Ben was a sales executive when the pandemic hit, and, like millions of other professionals, he was let go. Today, he shares how this moment was his rock bottom and from this point of zero, he became his own hero. It took a lot of work, creativity, and networking, but in just one year, he was able to launch and grow his marketing company, Balbert Marketing LLC. He also became the curator of the Real Business Connections Network, where he hosts five podcasts. “Rock bottom was such a blessing in disguise.” - Ben Albert Insights from Ben's journey: How his long-game knowledge helped him when he decided to start his business. What collaborative partnerships look like and how they help your business. The necessity of trying something different, new, and creative. Ben says there's no such thing as a key to success. Instead, it's a combination lock, and we each have our own unique combination. Each of us has our own idea or definition of success, and we each have our own path to get there. “What is your creative spark? And how can you bring someone in with you?” - Ben Albert Tune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and practical insights as we explore Ben's remarkable journey from zero to hero. Connect with Ben: Website Facebook LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love and have embraced the term “intentionally selfish” since I first heard it. To be intentionally selfish is to be unapologetic for raising yourself up. It is to give yourself what you need to heal, and to let go of all the shame from the experiences you went through. This episode is all about being “intentionally selfish.” It's a gift to yourself, an encouragement to move you further in your healing journey, and a discovery of your goals. My guest, Naketa Ren Thigpen, is breaking down the importance of being intentionally selfish. She's a Balance and Relationship advisor, combining the tenants of licensed clinical social work, psychotherapy, trauma work, metaphysics, and coaching. She's the CEO of personal development company, ThigPro Balance and a podcast host. Also the author of Selfish: Permission to Pause, Live, Love and Laugh Your Way to Joy. “I'm rebellious by nature. It's just in my core. You tell me ‘We have to go down this block,' and I'll follow you down the block the first time. But I'm literally doing it so I can see the shortcuts that I can do the second time.” – Naketa Ren ThigpenTopics discussed in this episode: We need to make the decision for ourselves that we've had enough and need to change and heal. We can either “stay in the box” or “break the box”. We need to choose what we would do. Do not minimize the pain and experiences you went through just because it's not worse than what other people have gone through. “The long game is knowing how to play it, but also finding out your unique shortcuts and ways so you can actually win the game you're trying to play.” – Naketa Ren ThigpenNaketa shares her story, how a childhood experience impacted her, needing to learn to let go of a burden that she wasn't supposed to bear, and how to deal with the shame that went with the experience. She also breaks down G.I.F.T. which stands for gratitude, imagine, forgiveness, and take action. She describes this process of healing as a gift we give to ourselves. Naketa guides us through each letter and how we can apply them. If you want to work with Naketa, consider the Intentionally Selfish Suite. It is a Personal Development Incubator deliberately designed to equip and certify women entrepreneurs as they evolve, arrive, and expand the version of themselves that's unchained, free, unconquerable, and spacious enough to create work/life that serves their highest good. This episode is jam-packed with Naketa's wealth of knowledge, words of wisdom, life lessons, and relatable experiences. Listen to the full episode to hear everything she shares. Links from Today's Episode: ThigPro Website Naketa Ren Thigpen LinkedIn Balance Boldly Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LinkedIn is one of the top social platforms for entrepreneurs and professionals. We know we need to get into it, but it can be intimidating because it also reflects on our professional profile. But what if getting started on LinkedIn doesn't have to be so intimidating? In this episode, we'll learn how to get started, transitioned, and consistent on LinkedIn. “LinkedIn is a hard platform… It's also one of the kindest networks.” - Donna Serdula To help us navigate the world of LinkedIn, we have Donna Serdula joining us today. In 2009, Donna walked away from her successful sales career and founded Vision Board Media and LinkedIn-Makeover.com. Her mission is to help people realize their internet identity and shape one that makes an impact and leads to opportunity. Her book, LinkedIn Profile Optimization for Dummies helps professionals get started on the platform. Donna has built the SOAR Framework. This gets you straight to connecting and engaging on LinkedIn. Start by building a STRATEGY—decide why you're using LinkedIn, identify your target audience, and develop your brand. Then OPTIMIZE your profile and posts so that the right people will find you. AMPLIFY your brand and message through a strong network. Then it's time to RELATE and build your network on LinkedIn so that what you post will actually be heard. Other topics discussed in this episode include: Practical strategies to build up your network Getting started on LinkedIn Engagement strategies to curate the feed you want   “LinkedIn wants the feed to be the people you know talking about the things you care about.” - Donna Serdula One common perception about LinkedIn is that it's a platform where you need to be buttoned up and with a stiff upper lip, and that was true—until five years ago. You can speak in your voice and let your personality show in a way that's true to your brand. LinkedIn, like other platforms, has an algorithm that's continuously changing. Sometimes, it's short posts with photos that do well. Other times, it's the long-form document posts. The key to maximizing your reach on this platform isn't to catch the algorithm, it's to build a large network and post quality, engaging and consistent posts. For more information and practical tips on getting started on LinkedIn, listen to the full episode, and check out the resources Donna shares on her website. Connect with Donna Serdula: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paid advertisements are one of the most effective ways to market your product or service and reach your ideal clients—if done right. However, the nuances of each social media platform's ad manager can feel like entering a new, foreign world. In this episode, we cover multiple Facebook ads strategies with our guest, Laura Ball. Laura works with 6 to 7-figure clients who sell directly to consumers using the power of paid traffic. She specializes in live launches, but also works with clients around brand awareness, lead generation, and evergreen funnels. Laura talks about: Demystifying Facebook ads management Essentials before hiring a Facebook ads manager Factors for a successful Facebook ad campaign   “Ads amplify what you are already doing.” - Laura Ball Laura shares that a key to successful ads is to run tests and fine-tune them. There's no overnight success in running ads. It's important to present yourself and effectively communicate who you are so that you can attract the right clients. Listen in as we unravel the secrets of Facebook ads. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just stepping into the advertising arena, this episode promises valuable insights to elevate your marketing game. Connect with Laura Ball: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When running a business, it should be expected that sometimes things will go south, and we'll have to put out fires. Sometimes these situations can be solved in a day with a phone call, but sometimes they can potentially end your business. That's what happened with our guest today when her Stripe account was hacked. Shannon Mattern is the founder of the Web Designer Academy where she teaches web designers how to create profitable, sustainable, freelance web design businesses. She also hosts the Profitable Web Designer Podcast where she shares insights and strategies for web design professionals. In this episode, Shannon talks about her recent experience and relates it to these business lessons: Be transparent and communicate with your clients In the middle of a challenge, look for rational and uninvolved perspectives There's more than one way to do things   “There's multiple ways to handle any situation. Why not give myself the opportunity to find out all of them and then make a decision with way more information than just what's in my head or I can Google.” - Shannon Mattern Today's show highlights the importance of relationships and networks in the business world. Having the right people around you, especially during challenging times, can make a world of difference. But they can only help you to the extent that you're asking for help. If you don't share your challenges, the right people who can help you overcome them won't come. In the world of business, it's necessary to have the ability to navigate adversity with resilience, transparency, and with the support of your network. Listen in as we explore the lessons learned from Shannon's experience. Connect with Shannon Mattern: Website Instagram LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building a robust multi-faceted business is no easy task, not even for the most seasoned entrepreneur. Creating a business that seamlessly incorporates all of your passions while providing a rewarding and fulfilling experience at the same time is the ultimate goal for many people building a business.  Dr. Kristy Sumner has successfully combined her passion for historical stories and paranormal into two businesses: Soul Sisters Paranormal, and The Historic Scott County Jail Museum.  The work that she does is totally fascinating to me, but maybe paranormal isn't your jam and that's okay. What stands out the most about Kristy is the way she's created two businesses that flow so well together that allow her to live the life she finds most fulfilling.  “If you look at us, just from the outside, it looks like we have a very robust company, but it's just the two of us.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner  Key areas we're highlighting in this episode  Kristy's first overnight stay in a haunted penitentiary, developing passion and excitement  Learning the technical skills it takes to produce the content they want to share  How a collaboration turned into a reopening of a historical location with paranormal research    Martin Yan, a chef and food writer says, “when you enjoy what you do, work becomes play.” For Kristy, she's allowed herself to lean into her passions for fun, play, and discovery in the presence of her friends. She's turned a corporate background and life as a college professor into a life that is filled with excitement. The excitement of researching historical stories and investigating paranormal activity is one aspect of it, but she's also leaning into solving problems and learning new skills that allow her to build something meaningful.  “We wanted to start out with a bang and really show people that we are legitimate in what we're doing.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner  Mentioned in this episode:  Lizzie Borden Story  Connect with Dr. Kristy Sumner  Soul Sisters Paranormal Website  Historic Scott County Jail Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As business owners who want to see our business grow, we want to find ways to be innovative and set ourselves apart from the competition. Whether it's in our messaging, our products, our processes, or our marketing, we're constantly looking for ways to be different. Being innovative also positions us as an industry leader and as a brand that's in touch with our customers' needs. It helps separate us from the pack when our market feels oversaturated. “Trailblazing is pushing the idea further or taking it to a new audience.” -Sandra Scaiano In this episode, Sandra discusses ways we can spark innovation in our business and how to find creative ways to grow. Four ways to bring innovation to your business: Make it normal to think creatively Start with the components of your offer Ask what your strengths are Look to collaborate “Whether it's a small tweak or a big breakthrough, now is the time to be innovating.” - Sandra Scaiano When uncertainty strikes or there's a need for fresh ideas, we need to ask ourselves these questions: What makes us different? What innovation can we bring to the table? This mindset sets us up for growth, towards innovation, reimagined business models, and a reinvented customer experience. Whether it's a minor tweak or a groundbreaking revelation, remember, the time to innovate is now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Long Game, we dive deep into the world of online courses and memberships. If you're a course developer, you've likely asked “How can I make my course better?” We all want to produce content and materials that are effective and transformational. We want to provide value and help people, and this episode will give you insight on how to do just that. “We want to make a bigger impact because of course, we want to help as many people as we can.” - Lesley Clavijo We're joined by Lesley Clavijo, an instructional designer who believes that teaching is more than just the transformation of information, it's about the entire learner's experience. She helps course creators elevate their programs so that their students get results so good that they can't help but tell everyone about their results. Three points discussed in this episode are: What makes a course successful Features in courses that improve the learning experience Marketing inside your course Lesley introduces us to her recipe for transformational courses, the "Premium Program Pie." This pie has six essential ingredients: intentional, interactive, inclusive, intuitive, inspirational, and infinite. By incorporating these elements, your course can go beyond just being transactional. Having these ingredients will deliver better results, create more impact, and be transformative. “Your course is never done. You're going to continuously improve your course over time.” - Lesley Clavijo Ready to transform your course into an unforgettable journey of growth and learning? Listen to the full episode to start your transformational journey today.  Connect with Lesley Clavijo: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves wearing many hats and juggling multiple tasks and projects at the same time. Some tasks demand our attention daily, weekly or monthly, like invoicing, communication, or client work. Meanwhile, we have projects that can significantly impact our businesses, the ones we need to prioritize to grow. Yet, with our plates always full, it can be a tricky balancing act. Eventually, we get stuck in a rut, and we experience a significant setback. Today, we talk about how we can get out of a rut and explore how we can stay inspired and motivated on our long game journey toward achieving our goals. “Your goals can't all happen in one day, but you do have to continually work at it.” -Sandra Scaiano Some practical action steps shared in this episode are: Define your why Have a clear goal Visualize success Lean into your network   “Motivation comes from action, and action can be the smallest step.” -Sandra Scaiano In entrepreneurship, maintaining motivation and constantly moving forward are needed for long-term success. Even after significant setbacks, we can choose to get back our drive. Remember, it's not just about staying busy. It's about staying inspired and always moving forward. Now, let's reignite that spark of motivation and keep pushing forward on your journey. Your long game begins now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Game, we're talking about the different ways to practice inclusive business practices with Dr. Ramona Lawrence. We'll be talking about messaging and learning what diversity really is, how it's a two-way process to reach it, and how we can incorporate it into our businesses. “What is my thriving community?... How do I do things to make sure that I do things and I have practices that will help all of them to thrive?” - Dr. Ramona Lawrence Dr. Raymona Lawrence is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Raymona H Lawrence Coaching, LLC-A Software/Systems as a Service (SAAS) Agency. Her life's work and heartfelt mission is to help individuals and organizations incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into their business strategy and systems so they can authentically connect with, recruit, and retain diverse networks of customers and team members. Dr. Lawrence is also a DEI Strategist, Speaker, Coach, and Consultant for network marketers, small business owners, and solopreneurs. In this episode, Dr. Lawrence shares: What diversity really means. Her ROAR framework and how it supports business growth in diverse communities The differences in each of our experiences   “If we've been able to respect differences in people and incorporate them into our systems, then we can create that culture of belonging and where people just feel like that they want to be there.” - Dr. Ramona Lawrence We'll share some of the day-to-day experiences and practices we have where we can incorporate different perspectives so that we can create systems and environments that welcome in everybody. Connect with Dr. Ramona Lawrence: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's digital world, there are countless ways to market yourself and your business, to the point where it can feel overwhelming and daunting. Sometimes, despite producing top-quality content, we still can't seem to attract our ideal clients. Our guests today will help demystify the digital marketing landscape and break down the key content strategies you should be using.  “One of the best tools for communication is story.” - Martin Huntbach  Joining us today are Martin Huntbach and Lindsay Cambridge, the duo behind Jammy Digital, an award-winning SEO and content marketing agency for business owners who aren't afraid to stand out. Their bestselling book, "Content Fortress," breaks down eight content pillars that will help your business.  Here are some things we discuss in this episode:  Utilizing both long and short-form content  How repelling and attracting content will save you time and bring in your ideal clients  How culture content impacts your interaction with clients    “What's the entire journey from start to finish from awareness right through the buying cycle and beyond?” - Martin Huntbach  Martin and Lindsay also break down all we need to know about sales content. This is something that a lot of us are uncomfortable writing because we don't want to come across as too sales-y or in-your-face, but this is more than just presenting yourself. It's about letting your ideal clients know who you are and how you can help them. It's about starting the customer journey even before they book a call with you or sign a contract.  Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your digital marketing game. Be sure to grab a copy of "Content Fortress" and tap into all the knowledge and strategies shared by our guests. Listen in if you're ready to take your content strategy to the next level.  Connect with Jammy Digital:  Website  Facebook  LinkedIn YouTube  Twitter  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Game Podcast, we delve into the essential aspects of entrepreneurship that can transform your business into a soulful and impactful journey. Today's conversation weaves into one conversation different topics including authenticity in business, core values, time management, and structuring your venture. To share her insights in this conversation, we're joined by Kami Guildner.  Kami is not your typical entrepreneur. She's the Founder of the Extraordinary Women Ignite Conference, Extraordinary Women Connect events, and host of the award-winning Extraordinary Women Radio™ – a podcast igniting a new paradigm of entrepreneurship with Soul+Strategy at its heart. She has a passion for bringing together a sisterhood of influential women to learn, connect, and inspire, each dedicated to raising up her voice, her vision, and her visibility to lead soulful, wildly successful businesses of impact.  “You can't outsource your leadership of thought.” - Kami Guildner  Here are some things we discuss:  Authenticity leads to the right relationships in our business  The importance of listening inside, scheduling CEO time and opening up to our wisdom and our intuition for the growth of our business  How having a balance across our mindset, body, spirit, and community affects how we show up for our business    “People fall in love with your soul, not your face.” - Kami Guildner  Kami also shares her SMART acronym: Simplification, Market, Ascending, Repeatable, Time Prosperity. These are the fundamental characteristics and foundations of a business that came out of her goal to build businesses that offer both time and wealth prosperity.  This episode is a deep dive into the soulful and strategic dimensions of entrepreneurship. Kami's insights and experiences serve as an example for those who want to run their businesses with authenticity, purpose, and prosperity. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, you'll find something in this episode that you'll resonate deeply with.  Connect with Kami:   Website  Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  YouTube  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Game, we're diving into the world of podcasting, entrepreneurship, and transparency as a business strategy. If you want to learn about building a thriving podcast, cultivating a passionate community, and achieving financial freedom, stick around because this episode is just for you. Our guest today is the remarkable Kate Erickson, a bona fide luminary in the podcasting and entrepreneurial universe. As the co-founder of Entrepreneurs on Fire podcast and a pioneer of many successful podcasts and courses, she's here to drop some serious wisdom and actionable insights. In this episode, we'll be discussing: ●       The benefits and opportunities that come from podcasts ●       Maximizing opportunities for engagement ●       Building and fostering communities   “Being an open book is not easy all of the time, but it's a core value of mine to share what I know and not hold anything back.” - Kate Erickson This episode is full of AHA! moments, as Kate walks us through her experiences and lessons learned. She highlights the role that transparency and connection play in the modern business landscape, and we get an insider's look at how income reports and other innovative strategies aren't just about numbers—they're about building trust and guiding your audience to their own success. Kate's story is an example of the power of staying true to your vision while nurturing genuine connections within your community. Connect with Kate Erickson: Website Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The concept of the long game is sticking with it. It's also about recognizing that you are on your unique journey. No two people have the same path. With all creative endeavors, you have the chance to show up your way, in your style. Today we're talking with Lizzie LaRock and we're discussing the power of creativity. She's the creator of The Life Feast, a one-of-a-kind program she calls a movement and a mission. Lizzie shares how she came up with the name “Life Feast”. She explains how this phrase came to her during a particularly difficult time in her own life. We are meant to have lives of joy after all! It's not just about working and paying bills. How can we use creativity to live a bigger life? One way Lizzie made space for more in life was to sign up for piano lessons; something she'd always wanted to do. She had this realization when one of her daughters wanted to stop her lessons. She realized she was sad about it because she'd always wanted to learn to play. How can we switch from consuming to creating? There's nothing wrong with streaming your favorite shows or checking out Tik Tok videos. Lizzie and I talk about how we focus on creating more often and use consuming content for fun and sometimes for inspiration. Creativity is a state, not a trait. It's a muscle that we all have and can build upon. Lizzie shares why using her iPhone is what works best for her when she's creating. It's a great reminder to use what we have and take 15 minutes to take photos when you're inspired. To spark creativity Lizzie shares prompts to help people see their world with a new perspective. Here's a few examples: Worms eye view Shoot from the hip Focus on a specific color (what pops up?) Birds eye view I love that these prompts can be integrated into part of your day. It's not about setting aside an hour with a planned agenda. It's about noticing what's right in front of you and seeing it in a new way. Lizzie explains that she encourages a growth mind-set. No one was born with a great eye, knowing exactly how to create the perfect photo. Embracing your view, your imperfections and your perspective is what makes you interesting. It is what makes your creativity unique to you. Think play, curiosity, and sense of wonder. It's something any of us can do as we begin to create. It allows all of us to be in flow leaving stress and perfection behind. Lizzie also brings the science. She teaches mindfulness based in the rigorously researched, evidence-based, scientific study of positive psychology. She calls her course a “gateway” drug. Many of her members move into other types of creative practices like painting, or writing, or acting etc. It's a way to open up your creativity and your curiosity. We need 3 positives for every negative in our day. We are hard-wired to recall the negative things in life for survival purposes. Creative work helps us embrace and hold onto the positive. She explains the practice of savoring and shares several great examples that anyone can do. Reclaim your creativity! Connect with Lizzie: Life Feast Info https://www.larockstarcreative.com/the-life-feast-sales-page Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lizzielarock/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 Within the first seconds of seeing your website, visitors make the decision of whether they will stay or leave, affecting whether or not they will work with you. The StoryBrand Framework is an effective way of communicating on your website and other marketing channels. It is based off of the book Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller which was later on developed into a course, then a certification.   My guest in this episode is Heather Frechette-Crowley, Founder and Principal of Root Marketing and certified StoryBrand guide.   “Your website is not about you, but for your client.” - Heather Frechette-Crowley   In this insightful discussion, we focus on the crucial elements of your website's home page. We delve into every feature, detail, and piece of information that should—and should not—be present. We explore essential components like the one-liner, header, call-to-action buttons, and more. And we will explore three key points: ●       How to make your client the hero ●       Using scarcity and limitations to communicate your message ●       Utilizing the power of clarity  “When we try to be clever or quirky, we sacrifice clarity.” - Heather Frechette-Crowley  Yes, your website is an excellent tool to build credibility and establish yourself as an authority in your field. However, its primary purpose is to help visitors determine if they want to work with you. By crafting your website with intention and utilizing the StoryBrand Framework, you create a platform that resonates with your audience and drives meaningful connections.  Tune in to this episode to gain invaluable insights and practical tips for building a compelling website that truly speaks to your clients and fosters lasting connections.   Connect with Heather Frechette-Crowley: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn   Connect with Sandra: Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's guest is the person who introduced me to the concept of morning pages. Julia Cameron, author of The Artists Way, explains them this way:   Morning Pages are three pages of longhand, stream of consciousness writing, done first thing in the morning. *There is no wrong way to do Morning Pages*– they are not high art. They are not even “writing.” They are about anything and everything that crosses your mind– and they are for your eyes only. Morning Pages provoke, clarify, comfort, cajole, prioritize and synchronize the day at hand. Do not over-think Morning Pages: just put three pages of anything on the page...and then do three more pages tomorrow.  This is an exercise that helps you have more consciousness during your day. It's a process to help open your creativity. It's all about uncovering, getting unstuck.   Today's guest, Krysty Krywko, has her own process called anchor pages. She uses art and creativity to help people heal.    First up we talk about how Krysty chose to rebrand herself and her business. She shared why she knew she needed to make the change AND admitted why it felt so hard to release the old name/brand.  “I can change my mind anytime I want to change my mind”. – Krysty  Krysty shares her anchor pages process and how she uses this in her own work. It's working through a series of prompts.   Name it and claim the emotions you are feeling right now.  How do you want to feel?   What actions do you need to take?   She reminds us that the actions are usually small steps that allow us to make a change.   She's using this process with creativity to help clients with sobriety and recovery. She encourages using a journal to allow for creative expression when doing this work. I know for sure that we are all recovering from something, and this process is something anyone can do.   Krysty reminds us that it's perfectly fine to start where you are, with what you have. Use the kids crayons and markers, cut photos out of magazines. Her advice: don't censure. Just start.   The power lies in the process.   Hear how this process is different from creating a vision board. Krysty shares how some of her clients have use this journal-creating-process to gain clarity in life. She also explains 3 of her favorite ways to get started so you aren't working with a blank page.   Final words: Start where you are. Don't worry about showing anyone else and remember that there are no rules. You can't do it wrong!   Connect with Krysty  Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I'm starting a series with one of my favorite topics; online courses and memberships. There's so much to review here, I'm breaking it up into a series so I can cover it all. I jumped into this a couple of years ago with some of my clients and I want to share what I've learned. We are seeing success with online learning in general and specifically, women who have launched courses are seeing success. Even those just starting are finding a place for their online offers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Launching a podcast and preparing your episodes for listeners is just the beginning. Once your podcast is live, there's still post-production work and marketing so it can reach your audience. That's what we're discussing today with my dear friend, Susan Winkler.  Sue is the co-owner of Soma Vayu Garden, a New Jersey-based yoga and cultural wellness studio, and she's also considering starting her own wellness podcast. She had a bunch of really good, insightful, questions for me that I'm sure every entrepreneur looking to start a podcast wants to know the answers to.  Here are the three key lessons from this episode:  Repurposing your podcast content to reach a wider audience on different platforms.  Leveraging tools and technology to streamline your podcasting process.  Identifying practical and authentic ways to market your podcast effectively.    “The more true you are to yourself and to bringing your content forward, the more that audience is going to find you.” -Sandra Scaiano  You don't have to implement every marketing strategy available. Instead, focus on understanding the various strategies so you can identify the ones that resonate with you and will be most effective in reaching your target audience. Find your unique approach and let your authentic content shine.  Connect with Sue Winkler:  Soma Vayu Garden  LinkedIn  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I've been doing this podcast for three years now, and in that time, I've learned some tricks of the trade and noticed some trends. Podcasts remain a powerful content vehicle for sharing your voice, viewpoints, and connecting with your audience. When my good friend Susan Winkler asked me, "What do you need to know to start a podcast?" I invited her to join me in this two-part series where she interviews me and asks all her burning questions as a total podcast newbie.  Sue, co-owner of Soma Vayu Garden, a New Jersey-based yoga and cultural wellness studio, is considering starting her own podcast. Today we dive into the technical and production aspects of podcasting.   In this episode, I talk about the equipment you'll need, like microphones, recording software, and lights, and also about the music, intros and outros, editing, and hosting. I'll guide you through the entire process from planning to having your episode ready for your audience to hear.  If you're considering starting your own podcast, I'll address all the questions you've asked and even those you didn't know to ask. Should I start a podcast? Is it worth it to have a podcast? Would I have the time and resources to sustain the podcast? What equipment do I need? Where do I even start?  “You can start one way and move yourself up another way.” -Sandra Scaiano  Podcasting is a personal journey, and your experience will be unique to you. The decisions you make as you go along will depend on your specific situation, goals, and available resources. This episode will help you identify the key factors influencing those decisions and help you start your own podcasting adventure.  Be sure to stay tuned for the next episode, where we'll delve into post-production and marketing strategies for your podcast.  Connect with Sue Winkler:  Soma Vayu Garden  LinkedIn  Relevant Links:  Audacity  Riverside  Shure MV7 Microphone  Sound Box  Lume Cube Table Top light  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we delve into the world of summits and what it takes to run a successful one. Summits offer entrepreneurs valuable networking opportunities, industry training, and a platform to market themselves and grow their audience. But behind the scenes, there are countless moving parts that contribute to a summit's success. Join us as we uncover the secrets to hosting a remarkable summit.  “Summits are a lot of work. Do it wrong and you'll learn how much work it is.” - Larissa Russell  Our guests today are Larissa Russell and Malva Gasowski, the founders of Spectacular Summits, a company dedicated to hosting impactful summits and assisting clients in organizing their own. Larissa, known as the Summit Queen, is an entrepreneur, international bestselling author, speaker, artist, coach, and healer. With her extensive experience running summits for herself and other experts, Larissa brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Malva, an instructional designer, business trainer, summit creator, executive coach, and international bestselling author, is also a key figure in the summit space.  Together, they also host the Elevate Your Kajabi Business Summit, a premier event that focuses on delivering proven advanced strategies and tactics for scaling Kajabi businesses and achieving long-term success.  Throughout this episode we address key questions, including:  What value do summits bring to entrepreneurs and their businesses?  Is hosting or participating in a summit a worthwhile investment for your business?  Should you speak at a summit?    “As a summit speaker, I'm collaborating with someone else.” - Malva Gasowski  Dispelling a common perspective that the other speakers and participants and summits are “competitors,” the ladies remind us that we're collaborating rather than competing with one another. When professionals from the same industry come together, we bring our expertise, knowledge, and connections to the table. By embracing collaboration, we can collectively grow and support each other's success.  Tune in to this episode to gain insights from Larissa and Malva on how to create and leverage summits for maximum impact.  Connect with Larissa Russell:  Website  LinkedIn  Connect with Malva Gasowski:  Website  Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  Connect with Spectacular Summits:  Website  LinkedIn  Elevate Your Kajabi Business Summit  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There are times when we doubt whether or not something is possible. Whether it's a big goal, a trip we dreamed of, a little “what if?” thought. In this episode, we're talking about if that thing we want to do is possible (spoiler alert: it is!), and the amazing things that happen when we let go of our control a little bit. And who better to talk about this than today's guest, Lisa Corrado.  Lisa is a coach and champion for small business owners & entrepreneurs. She's a cancer survivor and wildly enthusiastic traveler who is right now (as of the release of this episode) walking the entire 500+ miles of the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain.  “Sometimes it's easy, and sometimes it's hard. But it all gets done.” - Lisa Corrado  Lisa shares how her trip's been so far, meeting different people, the miles of nature, historical sites, culture, and all the food. But how did she prepare for this two-month trip, and how does she manage to do it all while staying connected, running her business, and servicing her clients?   Here's a few of the lessons Lisa learned:  When you decide to do something, things will align and fall into place for what you want to happen.  When you loosen your hold and let go of the idea that things have to happen your way, you open up a different path that would have been better and easier than anything you could have planned for.  Open yourself up to meeting people and experiences that will restore your faith in humanity.    “In my business, when I loosen my grip and don't hold things too tightly, it grows faster than it did before.” - Lisa Corrado  This trip was something that Lisa decided to do, and she did what she could to make it happen, then the rest fell into place. She's someone who reinforces the lessons she's learned and exemplifies the things she teaches. This is part of the reason why her clients trust her so much. Listen to this full episode to learn more from her.  Connect with Lisa Corrado:  Website  Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  Breakthrough Retreat  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we first start our own business, we have big dreams and grand plans, but we don't really know if it will take off. Today we hear the inspiring story of Kelly Aaron, who shows us that with perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to building relationships, success is within reach.  “Our biggest limit is self-imposed.” - Kelly Aaron  Kelly opened her first business over 20 years ago. Fueled by her passion for modern design and art, she curated museum exhibitions and facilitated the sale of rare pieces through esteemed auction houses. In 2016, Kelly founded Blueprint Lighting, a company that has since earned a reputation for crafting exquisite, modern fixtures.   Blueprint Lighting started from a lightbulb moment with a dismantled light fixture in a garage. From this spark of creativity, the company embarked on a transformative journey that led to its present-day prominence. Here are 3 things you can learn from Kelly's story.   You can just start and figure it out as you go.  Prioritize exceptional care for your clients.  Actively cultivate meaningful relationships.    “You have to be willing to go, I'm not fully in control of this, but even if I get the least out of it, I'm okay with that.” - Kelly Aaron  Kelly sheds light on the importance of planting seeds in our business and patiently nurturing their growth. We may not have control over how or when these seeds will flourish, or which opportunities will materialize, but we need to continue planting them. Because we never know what will come out of a favor we grant, or valuable offering we give, or an email we send. Who knows? That rush order over Thanksgiving might lead to one of your biggest clients.   Connect with Kelly Aaron:  Instagram  Contact Blueprint Lighting:  Website  Facebook  Instagram  Pinterest  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we're exploring the tools used by one of the biggest theme parks, Universal Studios. By studying their systems and processes, we can learn how to use the same tools in our own businesses and play the long game like a pro. Here are some of the things Universal Studies does right to make sure their park is a success and guests enjoy every step of their experience: Plan - Before any construction took place, not only did they plan the park layout, but they also considered where the guests would line up for rides, and where they'd get in and out. Before each ride, as the guest gets closer, they placed different elements to build anticipation and expectations. As they exit the ride, they made the guests exit through a gift shop, enticing them to make more purchases. Leverage automation - Many of the rides are automated and timed perfectly so that while the guests are waiting, their anticipation and excitement increases. They also use biometrics for ticketing. Not only does this prevent ticket sharing, but the guests go through the lines much faster and smoother. Be creative and innovative - There are many gift shops around Universal, and yes, they have the standard collectibles and fun items for each franchise, but they also sell high quality, useful items, like backpacks. They had a limited-edition Marge Simpson backpack made with Hershel, and I bought this not only because of the brand, but also because I was able to use it while we were going around the park.   “It's good to notice the processes that the big guys utilize, and to know that you have the power to incorporate the same successful concepts into your own business.” -Sandra Scaiano By studying the proven methods of Universal Studios, you can unlock a treasure trove of insights and strategies that you can apply to your own business. From streamlining your processes to leveraging innovative technology, there's a lot to learn from these successful companies. Don't be intimidated by their size or resources; instead, use them as inspiration to take your own game to the next level. Remember, playing the long game is about consistent growth and improvement, and by adding these tools to your toolbox, you're setting yourself up for success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Branding is one of the most important factors in your business. It's more than just a set of pretty colors and fancy fonts. It's what sets you apart, how your audience can identify you, and the expectations you set about what you do and who you are. It is the first level of communication you have with your audience.  “Branding requires a wide range of skills, including graphic design know-how, copywriting, and an understanding of marketing strategies.” - Sandra Scaiano  With all the intricacies and layers that go into branding, here are three mistakes you might be making:  DIY colors and logos  Font choice and low readability  Using stock photos    I'm not a DIY hater. I understand that sometimes DIY might be necessary, especially for those who are just starting out and on a tight budget. But when you do things yourself, you may miss little details that the pros take into consideration when helping you build your brand, such as readability and how the design looks across platforms.  “It's easy to struggle when you go the DIY route, and it's hard to create a brand that communicates your values and resonates with your target audience.” -Sandra Scaiano  Today I dive deep into this topic and also share how you can avoid these mistakes. With a little research and a little help, you can curate an online image that really showcases your brand and who you are.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There's a common belief that in order to build your Instagram following, create a viral post, or develop your community, Instagram would have to be treated as a second job, almost. You may think you have to spend hours and hours to craft that perfect post and connect with people. But how true (or false) is this claim? That's what we're taking a deep dive into today. “For every business, you need people behind it to talk about and endorse it and tell their friends about it in order to scale and grow… It's the power of the people that amplify opportunity.” - Sue B. Zimmerman Who better to guide us through the Instagram landscape than Sue B. Zimmerman? Sue teaches small business owners how to become the go-to authority in their industry by using Instagram marketing strategies to establish and grow an engaged following that converts. She's built my career empowering entrepreneurs and marketing professionals to utilize the power of Instagram to get tangible business results. Here are three common questions about Instagram that Sue guides us through: How we're supposed to keep up with all the changes What makes an effective Instagram post? How do we present ourselves on Instagram?   “At the end of the day, the most important thing in a business is relevant content. And if you're not speaking to your audience with the content they want to see, hear, laugh to, look at, save, all of that, growth is hard, and building community is even harder.” - Sue B. Zimmerman More than the understanding of Instagram as a platform and getting into the nitty gritty of effective posts, Sue reminds us that at the end of the day, it's is a free tool. Yes, we need to define our brand and develop our processes, but having those will significantly decrease the time we spend on the platform and will improve the way we can create connections. Sue kindly offered my listeners a free downloadable in-depth Instagram guide. All you have to do is go to her latest Instagram post, comment your questions and thoughts about this episode if you have one, and ask for the download. Connect with Sue B. Zimmerman: Website Facebook Instagram YouTube Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I've been where you are - struggling to make informed marketing decisions and wanting to drive growth for my business. By diving into Google Analytics, I discovered the importance of audience segmentation, targeted ads, and remarketing to increase conversion rates and engage potential customers.   I'm sharing what I've learned so you can get better results with your own online business marketing. In today's competitive online landscape, effectively utilizing Google Analytics for website optimization is essential to unlock your business's true potential.   The power of data analytics gives you insights into your audience's behavior so you can develop targeted marketing strategies. It's one of the most effective methods for online growth.   Understanding how to successfully leverage Google Analytics to ensure that your business stands out from the competition is key for growing and thriving in today's online world.   In this episode I'm covering major changes to Google Analytics, specifically Google Analytics 4 (GA4) which is going to be the only option starting July 1, 2023. If you have Google Analytics now, you'll need to export your data because it will all start new come July.   If you're new to this, hang with me. I know it is techy and can be overwhelming but understanding how this can work for you is really important and I'm here to help.   A few things to know:   This episode is for anyone who has a website, be it WordPress, Kajabi, Shopify, Squarespace, ClickFunnels, and more. All of these various website applications allow for GA4 integration.  If all of this is new to you, no worries. Start today, where you are with the basics covered in this episode.   Tracking codes are what allows GA4 (and other applications) to track who comes to your website, and what happens while they are there. It's really that simple.   Using that info, you can determine how people are finding you, and how they move through your site. Are they opting into your funnel? What happens at checkout? This is the type of data GA4 can provide.   The whole point of all this info is to help you make better decisions about how you market your business and where to put your resources.     There are some privacy issues and I cover those in detail on the podcast. I also outline how and why I'm comfortable with data gathering, as a business owner and as a consumer.   Start with the basics.   Set up Google Analytics account and install tracking code.  Conduct regular website audits, focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as bounce rates, conversion rates, and average time spent on site. By keeping track of these KPIs, you can pinpoint areas where improvement is needed and respond with targeted solutions.   When ready you can integrate with Google Ads. I outline some great examples that you'll recognize right away. Now you'll know why you see ads for something the day after you do a search for it!     The importance of leveraging Google Analytics for business cannot be overstated.   I know this can feel overwhelming. The idea of having analytics and data sounds great but I know many of you may not have an interest figuring all of this out on your own.   If that's the case, reach out. I'd love to help. We can take some time to strategize about what data you need to see and what you want to analyze to meet your particular goal.   Now is the time to get this set up so you can begin gathering the info that's important to you and your business.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As business owners in different fields, we might be working in different industries, but as we interact with other entrepreneurs and hear about their journey, we learn that we share many of the obstacles, struggles, and experiences. Today, we're talking all about the journey of building an herbal apothecary business, and sharing the lessons learned along the way.  With us today is Shannon Mayernik. She's an herbalist and plant medicine maker based in Northern New Jersey. Shannon is also the Co-Owner of Mayernik Kitchen, a modern day Herbal Apothecary. Shannon is participating in a year-long clinical program for herbal medicine and continues to study and teach herbalism to her community.  “It's all about community, creating your group. You have one another to lean on, to learn from, to share with.” - Shannon Mayernick  In the business Shannon runs, she has to think about so many things, from farming, harvest season, pest control, developing and making products, delivery, community engagement, content creation, course development, apprenticeships, and even just the everyday management of the business. So how does she do it all? Well, many things go into the success of Mayernick Kitchen, and Shannon shares her journey through it all.  Here are three entrepreneurship lessons we all can learn:  Make your own opportunities by putting yourself in situations outside your everyday life, and when the opportunities come, you just take it and start.  It's important to have a system and streamlined process, but this will take time and experience to develop and perfect.  You have the power to create an environment that your community will engage in.    “Sometimes, it does seem a little more magical or romantic. And some days it's completely out of control. But if you're creating something for you, a family, a friend, you want to put good intentions into it.” - Shannon Mayernick  Another thing that helps her business succeed? Shannon puts intentionality in everything she does, whether it's in preparing the tinctures to sell, or creating content for Instagram. Shannon approaches everything she does with the intention of it helping and being for someone else, and this intentionality can be felt every time people interact with her business.  If you want to learn from Shannon, I highly recommend the recently launched online course, The Table, where you can learn about gardening, farming, herbalism, suburban homesteading, and everything in between, and also be surrounded by a community of people like you. Long Game listeners get a 10% discount with the code TheLongGame23.  Connect with Shannon Mayernick:  The Table  Website  Facebook  Instagram  Twitter  Pinterest  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As business owners and entrepreneurs, we experience so many different situations that require us to be light on our feet and we have to make quick decisions. In those times, it's all about making the decisions now. But other times, there's a need to make calculated, data-driven decisions. And I think a lot of us prefer this so we can have more time and information before we make a decision.  So how do we get the data we need for our businesses? One way is to do testing, and this is what I'm talking with you about on this episode.  “Data-backed decisions are not based on a whim.” -Sandra Scaiano  From as early as my college days, I've seen how companies conduct tests. It can be either in the quality of their products or the quality of the materials they use. Tests can also be run before you launch a large marketing plan. Tests aren't a waste of resources in the short term. They help us make better decisions in the long run.  These tests bring so many benefits to our businesses. They can save us money on the resources and strategies we invest in. We can develop better products and services, then trust and loyalty is built between us and our clients.   “Honing in on strategies builds stronger relationships and loyalty.” -Sandra Scaiano  Now, you might be asking, “What type of tests can we be running?” or “What are the mechanisms to collect data?” Great questions! And I'm going to be addressing them in upcoming Data and Tracking episodes, so send your questions my way, and stay tuned for them.  Listen in to hear more about the benefits of testing, and how I've personally applied it to my business.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the past several years, there's been a rise in life coaches, meditation teachings, and self-help programs, and a lot of them can feel so disconnected and impersonal that people want to distance themselves from them. That's a shame because when done right, mindfulness, awareness and meditation have so much benefit. The key is to find what works for us, to find something we connect with. This is exactly what today's guest does.  Juan Alvarez is an Executive Coach and mindfulness teacher for entrepreneurs. His goal is to help conscious leaders stay present, peaceful, and purposeful so they can bring their best selves to the world. This is why he developed his coaching programs and hosts the Life is the Practice podcast.  These lessons in mindfulness, being present, healing and letting go of the past that Juan learned through the years are now the lessons he teaches to others. I love the approach that he applies. He only teaches what he does, and he's conscious to not get too attached to his teaching and to still be approachable and relatable to his students. He keeps everything practical and applicable for a lot of people.  “Because we are not present in our inner experience, we tend to operate from patterns of fear, anxiety, and scarcity all the time.” - Juan Alvarez  Juan answers these questions about mindfulness in this episode:  The difference between being present, mindfulness, and meditation.  Why it's important to be present in the moment.  How we can live in awareness and achieve a state of mindfulness.  How we can integrate mindfulness into our everyday, busy lives.    Sometimes it can take a long time for us to become aware that we need to make some changes in our lives and approach things in a different way. Juan didn't start being intentional about learning these skills until he was in his early thirties, but after applying them, he immediately saw the effects across all areas of his life.  “You can only help others to the extent that you have helped yourself.” - Juan Alvarez  Connect with Juan Alvarez:  Website  Instagram  LinkedIn  YouTube  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Podcasts are changing the game for people who want to present themselves and share their stories. It's proving to be a competitive alternative to traditional ways or social media for reaching your ideal audience, building quality connections, and growing your business. I've personally seen the benefits of podcasts after hosting almost 150 episodes, but our guest today is even more qualified to talk about the benefits.  Scout Sobel is a trailblazer in the media industry for utilizing Podcast Tours™ as a powerful form of PR. She founded Scout's Agency, an agency that runs high-profile Podcast Tours™ in February of 2019, and has since led it to grow 600% since year one, book over 2,000 podcast episodes, cultivate a database of over 5,000 podcasts, and run over 150 Podcast Tours™. She's the author of the bestseller, The Emotional Entrepreneur: The Emotional Guidebook to Entrepreneurship, the host of The Emotional Entrepreneur Podcast, and the co-host of top-charting podcast, Okay Sis.  “You go on a podcast today, but the benefits can continue to bear fruit years and years later.” - Scout Sobel  Truly an expert in the field of podcasting, here are the three things Scout talks about in this episode:  Benefits of podcast tour  Differences between podcasts vs. traditional or social media  Podcasts as a human and authentic way of reaching your audience    “The medium of podcasting is deep, so naturally, the results are going to be deep.” - Scout Sobel  No one can argue with all of Scout's success and achievements, but what makes her truly special is her authenticity and sincerity which comes through in our conversation. She doesn't believe in competition, recognizing that there's enough space for all voices to be heard and for everyone to succeed, and only wants to help and serve as many people as she can.  This is why she recently launched the Podcast Tour Academy, which provides private and group trainings for agencies, freelancers, and entrepreneurs to get them certified in running Podcast Tours™.  Connect with Scout Sobel:  Website  Instagram  LinkedIn  Twitter  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One huge category of online products today is online courses, and they vary in topics, industries, audiences, and even sizes. Some courses have hundreds to thousands of participants, and these are the ones with the goal of hitting the most numbers they possibly can.   “Courses get to be intimate spaces. They don't have to be behemoths to become successful.” -Sandra Scaiano  But maybe that's not for you and your course offering. Maybe you want to develop an intimate environment and only have a few dozen students at a time. In this episode, I'm talking to you about the intimate strategy and how these smaller courses can drive success.  Here are three benefits of smaller courses I discuss in this episode:  You really highlight quality.  It's a more manageable workload.  There's greater flexibility in delivery, teaching methods, and processes.    If you're someone that's better at catering to smaller groups and personal coaching, maybe developing intimate courses is for you. Or maybe you start out with the smaller setting and discover that having a large number of students is better for you and your business. That's okay too.   “You can't ‘think' your business. It's through doing that your path becomes clear.” -Sandra Scaiano  By running your business, you get to know your business and can decide what works best for you. By doing that you can have a clearer vision and get to plan better for the long game.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices