Podcasts about audience building

AL #001 Can you still niche down to build an audience and find success in 2026? Instead of trying to find the riches in the niches, aren't you better off going broad nowadays? Debates on this topic are getting heated in the online business space. Right now, it's tried-and-true advice versus generalists hoping to hit it out of the park with a compelling enough offer. So what's the right move for your brand? I'm your host and SPI Community Director, Liz Wilcox, and we're tackling this question in this very first episode of AskLiz! We're launching these bite-sized sessions to help you on your journey in entrepreneurship, lifestyle design, personal development, and everything in between. Today's niching down question is the perfect place to start. Please tune in because clarity beats cleverness every time, and this makes all the difference if you're growing a brand from scratch! And if you'd like your question answered, let me know what you're dealing with at SpeakPipe.com/LizWilcox. Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/al001.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Should cartoonists hire a social-media manager? Brad and Dave discuss the pros and cons of outsourcing social media and ultimately argue that most creators should handle it themselves. They explain why social media is an extension of a creator's voice, how direct engagement provides invaluable feedback about audience-building and marketing, and why improving your promotional skills makes you a better cartoonist overall. Along the way, they discuss shyness, self-promotion, audience growth, and the dangers of trying to be everywhere at once online. Topics Covered • The ComicLab newsletter and the “Five to Grow On” feature • Whether cartoonists should hire a social-media manager • Why social media is part of a creator's artistic voice • The value of learning promotion instead of outsourcing it • Why creative people often resist marketing and business skills • How marketing skills can improve artistic skills • The dangers of trying to maintain every social-media platform at once • Brad's “2-2-1” approach to social media • Platform-specific posting strategies and why one-size-fits-all promotion fails • Social-media feedback as a tool for improving your work • Shyness and discomfort with self-promotion • The “lipstick on a pig” problem: when promotion can't compensate for weak work • Why making a great comic remains the most important marketing strategy • Dave's upcoming Reddit AMA and his Hugo Award nomination • Using award nominations as promotional opportunities • Hugo Awards promotional support versus other industry awards • BlueSky starter packs and audience growth • Why cartoonists should do more cross-promotion • Whether creators should put award nominations on book covers • How long to keep promoting a completed comic project • Managing inventory and promoting older books • Long-tail sales and evergreen products • Using older books as bonuses, stretch goals, and loss leaders • When it makes sense to retire promotional efforts • Whether different creative projects need separate Patreons, newsletters, Substacks, and social-media accounts • The benefits and drawbacks of splitting projects into separate brands • Cognitive load, burnout, and managing multiple audiences • Using separate platforms to measure the success of different projects • When creators should keep projects under one roof and when they should branch out You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

If you're tired of shouting into the social media void while “followers” barely notice, this episode is your turning point. Learn how to trade passive reach for active relationships—where customers create content, refer friends, and stick around because they're part of something that matters.

Welcome to the very first episode of Find Your 1000 — a new era for this podcast and a fresh chapter in Scott's 18+ year journey of building audiences and businesses online.If you've been listening since the Amazing Seller or Brand Creators days, welcome back. If this is your first time here, you're starting at the perfect moment.In this episode, Scott breaks down exactly what Find Your 1000 is, why he's relaunching this podcast, and the single biggest lesson he's learned after building multiple six and seven figure businesses — it was never about the big numbers.In This Episode You'll Hear:Why Scott is rebranding and what Find Your 1000 actually meansThe Kevin Kelly "1,000 True Fans" article and how Scott has been living proof of it for 18 years without even realizing itThe New Portrait Biz story — how 1,000 email subscribers led to a $12,500 product launchHow Scott went 64 episodes on The Amazing Seller podcast before making a single dollar — and why that was the right moveWhy 1,000 raving fans will always outperform 100,000 passive followersThe Live Video School origin story — how his son Scotty pitched the idea and what happened nextWhy authenticity is the new competitive advantage in the age of AIWhat to expect from this show every FridayLinks Mentioned:Email Scott directly: scott@livevideoschool.comJoin the free Thursday workshop: livevideoschool.com/workshopRemember — I'm here for you, I believe in you, and I'm rooting for you. Now take action and have an awesome amazing day.

#931 There is an audience out there that only you can reach and impact. These are the superfans who'll pop up and resonate with your message when you share your authentic self! That's why building trust and deep relationships is the most rewarding aspect of our work, as creators! So listen in on today's episode to hear SPI Community Director Liz Wilcox and me reminisce about some of our most powerful superfan moments! From chance encounters to small interactions that mean everything, this session will help you see your audience in a new light. But this perspective shift is especially important if you're just starting out. As a beginner or small creator, you're uniquely positioned to make the most of the connections you're fostering if you follow our Superfans System! Tune in to hear more about that, along with the story behind Liz's NSYNC fandom and the time I almost lost my audience over a bad partnership. Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session931.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There is a question that keeps coming up in cider, small business, and independent media: Is this sustainable? In this episode, Ria sits down with Adrian Luna, known as the Hard Cider Guy, for a conversation that goes well beyond cider. What starts as a discussion about content creation quickly turns into something deeper. Two practitioners, each with their own discipline, circling around the same hard truth: if you do not value your work, no one else will. This is not about rejecting collaboration or generosity. It is about understanding the long-term cost of working for free, and what it takes to build something that lasts. From orchard life to media strategy, from martial arts philosophy to the realities of burnout, this episode asks what it really means to take your role seriously, whether you are making cider or telling its story. Timestamps 00:00 Is Cider Work Sustainable 01:28 Episode Theme and What's at Stake 02:12 Orchard Life and Spring Work 03:47 Planting, Grafting, and Growing Trees 07:02 French Cider Tour and Limited Spots 10:22 Meet Adrian Luna The Hard Cider Guy 11:20 The Cider Sensei Mindset 13:42 Finding Cider and Career Shift 15:51 Building the Hard Cider Guy Brand 17:21 From Scholarship to Cider Career 19:13 Too Many Hats Small Business Reality 20:53 Burnout in Cider and Media 24:20 Mission Statement Versus Making Money 26:03 Does Cider Need Independent Media 27:54 Should Creators Be Paid 29:32 Why You Should Not Work for Free 29:59 Martial Arts Discipline and Cider Ethics 30:50 Why Cider Media Needs Support 32:24 Finding Your Lane in Cider 33:16 Education and Audience Building 35:29 Hooks Versus Authentic Content 37:19 Discipline Through Adversity 42:33 Community Responsibility in Cider 48:15 Key Takeaways from the Conversation 49:12 Support Cider Chat and Keep It Going 50:12 Strange Apples Outro Find the full show notes for Episode 505 at CiderChat.com Direct Link at: https://ciderchat.com/podcast/505-cider-senseis-media-value/ Listen wherever you get your podcasts and do not forget to subscribe so you never miss what is coming next in Ciderville. Prefer to watch? Find Cider Chat on YouTube for more cider stories, orchard adventures, and global cider culture. Enjoy cider? Help keep #ciderGoingUP by supporting Cider Chat. Your support helps keep the podcast on the air and makes it possible to share more conversations like this one.

Are you tired of the traditional book launch model that feels more like shouting into a void than building a business? For years, authors were told to write in isolation, polish to perfection, and hit publish, only to watch their sales stall after week one. The reality is that the old "build it and they will come" strategy is broken. Today, Amazon has flipped the script, moving away from short-term sales spikes and instead rewarding authors who bring in external traffic through robust, long-term platform building.If you want to stop guessing and start executing, you need to understand the Perfect Reader Playbook. Success in the modern market isn't about luck; it's about mastering the five stages of reader awareness—moving your audience from being completely unaware to becoming your most loyal buyers. By shifting your focus from cold selling to relationship building, you can transform your book from a one-off project into a powerful engine for your coaching, consulting, or speaking business. Let's dive into how you can stop the "long tail collapse" and start building an author platform that Amazon—and your readers—will reward mightily.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://superbrandpublishing.com/podcast/

I'm doing something a little different this week and breaking down the visual roadmap for your entire content strategy, or my "Content Flywheel." Today, I will show you exactly how to approach your digital business this year, and beyond!   I reveal the two primary ways to grow your list and the inevitable trade-off between time and money, why your offer must be the singular nucleus of everything you create, and so much more. If you are just starting out and building from scratch, this is what you've been waiting to hear. If you are a seasoned pro ready to finally delegate the busy work so you can focus on the big picture, this episode gives you the exact plan to turn random viewers into qualified leads who actually want to buy your stuff.  I'm kicking off our 21-Days to 100 Leads Challenge focused on one simple premise: if you give me a little bit of your time every day, I'll tell you exactly what to do to get your first or next 100 leads! We've had students go from zero to thousands of leads using this exact paint-by-numbers approach. Head over to www.jameswedmore.com/100leads to get all the deets and join us for only $21!.  Ready to stop thinking like a marketer and start operating like a true business owner? We're kicking off a powerful, brand-new experience on June 11th called the Business Breakthrough Experience. This is specifically designed to help you audit your strategy, find your unique human edge, and cause that next quantum leap in your results. Head over to www.businessbydesign.net right now to get on the priority list and save your seat. Want to go even deeper? Come hang out with me for a free Breakthrough Coaching session! I'll be sharing the exact exercises and audits you can use to coach yourself, and I'll even be bringing people on live to work through their biggest bottlenecks in real time. It's totally free to join, just head over to www.jameswedmore.com/breakthrough to check the session times and register to save your spot! Snap a screenshot of the episode playing on your device, post it to your Instagram Stories and tag us, @jameswedmore and @jenniwedmore. We'd love to hear what resonated with you the most from this episode and especially what you want covered in future ones!  In this episode you'll hear:  Why you need to move past random posting and start using my specific pillar strategy  Organic vs. Paid Ads: I'm settling the debate on which lever you should pull first The main reasons that I'm doubling down on long-form content in 2026 and how to leverage context to turn distracted scrollers into dedicated students A look at the simple lead generation tweak I used to generate over 70,000 leads and how you can replicate it with your very next podcast episode My 3-part newsletter formula that nurtures your audience every single week without adding hours of extra work to your plate How a non-negotiable live launch every 12 weeks can be the engine that drives both your list growth and your bank account balance What you can do now to turn your content creation into a cyclical flywheel so you can finally get your time back and move from "doer" to "visionary"  For full show notes and links, visit: www.mindyourbusinesspodcast.com/blog/818 

Guest Links Rising Tides Marketing: https://risingtides.io Grady's YouTube: [link to be added] Book “Building Distribution” (coming Q3/Q4 2025) Edit your podcasts like a pro:https://get.descript.com/mrzy10nwivuqJoin me as a guest or start your podcast journey:https://www.joinpodmatch.com/nickkuhne Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Grady's wild background 01:30 – Why 250 launches cost him his hair 02:45 – What “Building Distribution” really means 05:20 – Why most founders fail at customer acquisition 07:40 – The brutal focus conversation every founder needs 09:15 – Finding your first 100 ideal customers 12:00 – How to stop being everything to everyone 14:30 – Building marketing systems that actually work 20:45 – Rising Tides team model explained 26:30 – Making the hand-off to in-house teams easy 31:00 – The real mentality behind building distribution 33:20 – Final advice on killing founder dissonance Connect with me on:All my linksBecome a guestSign up for RiversideGet Descript #DigitalMarketing #Branding #PersonalBranding #MarketingInsights #SocialMediaStrategy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, host Josh interviews Will Russell, CEO of Russell Marketing, about effective strategies for launching e-commerce products. Will shares his five-step framework, emphasizing audience building through paid ads, partnerships, virality, and organic growth. They discuss practical tactics for Amazon sellers, such as using product insert cards with QR codes, leveraging surveys for product validation, and segmenting email lists for launch campaigns. Will highlights the importance of nurturing existing customers and using their feedback for product development. The episode offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs aiming to maximize launch success and scale their businesses efficiently.Chapters:Introduction to Will Russell and Russell Marketing (00:00:00)Will Russell's background, agency achievements, and book introduction.Strategies for Building an Engaged Audience Pre-Launch (00:00:55)Overview of paid acquisition, piggybacking/partnerships, virality, and organic growth for audience building.Piggybacking and Partnerships Explained (00:01:20)How to leverage existing communities and partnerships to access target audiences.Virality and Organic Growth (00:02:47)Discussion of viral marketing, influencer strategies, and the role of organic content.Summary of Audience-Building Approaches (00:03:53)Recap of paid, partnership, viral, and organic methods for audience growth.Leveraging Existing Customer Bases for Product Validation (00:05:07)Using current customers for product validation, feedback, and preorders to reduce launch risk.The Value of Existing Communities in Launches (00:07:11)How established audiences give a head start and lower costs for new product launches.Applying the Five-Step Framework to Amazon Sellers (00:08:14)Host introduces actionable takeaways, adapting Will's framework for Amazon product launches.Step 1: Product Validation Tactics (00:09:26)Using product inserts, QR codes, and Amazon analytics to validate new product ideas.Step 2: Audience Building and Customer Surveys (00:10:37)Reaching out to existing customers, using surveys to identify pain points and refine products.Step 3: Audience Engagement During Product Development (00:11:50)Keeping customers involved in product design and updates to build anticipation and loyalty.Step 4: Conversion Strategies and List Segmentation (00:13:05)Segmenting email lists for staggered launch campaigns to optimize Amazon ranking and conversions.Step 5: Scaling and Ongoing Audience Engagement (00:14:02)Using product inserts and ongoing engagement to prepare for future launches and scale the business.Review Research and Copywriting Insights (00:14:28)Using competitor reviews for product development and marketing language.Segmentation Strategies for Different Launch Models (00:15:19)How to segment audiences for Amazon vs. crowdfunding launches, prioritizing likely converters.Conclusion and Final Thoughts (00:17:01)Recap, book recommendation, and closing remarks.Links and Mentions:Advertising Tools:"Facebook Ads": "00:01:20""Google Ads": "00:01:20""Reddit Ads": "00:01:20""Amazon Brand Analytics": "00:10:37"Books:"Take Your Idea from Light Bulb Moment to Profitable Business in Record Time" by Will Russell: "00:00:52"Marketing Concepts and Strategies:"Piggybacking": "00:01:20""Virality": "00:02:47""Organic Growth": "00:03:53""Customer Surveys": "00:06:02""Product Insert Cards": "00:09:26""Segmentation for Email/Text Lists": "00:13:05"Content and Influencer Strategies:"User-Generated Content": "00:02:47""Influencer Marketing": "00:02:47""Referral Strategies": "00:02:47"Transcript:Josh 00:00:00  Today I'm super excited to introduce you to Will Russell. He is the CEO and founder of Russell Marketing. Russell Marketing is an innovative digital agency specializing in e-commerce launch marketing. To date, they have generated more than 25 million in revenue for over 300 new entrepreneurs. Will has been featured on Forbes, Business Insider, Crain's New York Start-Up nation and many more. Will also has launched the Russell Gibbs Foundation, a family foundation that offers grants and mentorship to 501 C3 partners committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. In November of 2022, Will's first book launch in five. Take your Idea From Light Bulb Moment to Profitable Business in Record Time, was published by Nicholas Brealey. So welcome to the show, Will.Will 00:00:52  Thank you. Thanks for having me, Josh. It's a real pleasure to be here.Josh 00:00:55  When you talk about building an engaged, you know, audience or, you know, building it up a The following. What are what are the channels or strategies to kind of build this following of people before you've even launched a product?Will 00:01:15  By and large, most people are going to lean heavily into paid acquisition.Will 00:01:20  And so, you know, that means paying Facebook or Google or Reddit for ad space and driving traffic using those methods. Now, not everyone has big budgets. They can just plug in. To do that, I always suggest paid acquisition because frankly, is the quickest and easiest way of getting from where you are to where you need to be. But I understand not everyone has the budget. So for those who don't have those budgets, or for those who don't want to rely entirely on those budgets, there's a few other avenues you really look to. One is piggybacking. And so by piggybacking, we're looking for partners or like minded communities that already we have the people we want, and we want to build a connection with the managers or the founders of those communities and essentially piggyback on top of the success they've had to get access to these people. So examples of that might be, maybe you don't want to put $10,000 into a Facebook ad campaign, but maybe you could purchase an advertising spot or in a particular media websites newsletter, or you could write a guest post, or you could do some sort of exchange post promotional exchange with them over a period of six months, where maybe front end of that relationship, they're helping you, but then towards the back end, you're going to balance that out more and start helping them in different ways.Will 00:02:47  So piggybacking and looking at those kind of partnerships is a really good route. Another effort we're going to look to is virality. It's a tough one because it's you know, there are obviously elements to what makes something viral and, and checkboxes that you can go through. But there's always an element of luck there. You don't really know for sure whether a big effort to go viral is going to work. And so it can be a bit of a risk, but virality and that can be things such as word of mouth, marketing strategies, referral strategies and fun content, user generated content, things like ambassadors or affiliate marketing. We might even include some influencer marketing in that. So we've got the virality is certainly a good a good path to go. If you don't want to lean into pushing too much of your budget into paid ads, and then I mean, the fourth and longest one, I suppose is is the organic, you know, people that don't have big budgets and and maybe don't excel. I don't have any partners or I don't have.Will 00:03:53  I can't make things viral. They can't ...

This week on ComicLab, veteran comic artists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett kick things off a discussion about something every cartoonist wrestles with: work-life balance. If you're juggling a day job, relationships, and your creative ambitions, Brad and Dave break down practical strategies that actually work — including: • Why consistency beats intensity • How to build a repeatable creative schedule • The power of small, daily wins • And why your health and relationships are just as critical as your drawing skills They also tackle a big-picture career question: What happens when a long-running comic ends? Dave shares his thoughts on winding down Drive, how to retain an audience, and the challenge of transitioning into your next project without losing momentum. Plus: • Smart ways to monetize short comics • Why finished is better than perfect • And how thinking long-term can transform your creative output Whether you're just starting your first comic or planning your next big move, this episode is packed with actionable advice — and a few chaotic detours along the way. Key takeaway: Three years are going to pass anyway… you might as well have a finished comic at the end of them. Today's Show • UPDATE: Enshittification of Bluesky begins • Work-Life balance • UPDATE: NCS Conference and Reuben Awards • Monetizing short comics • What will Dave do when Drive is over? For more information about joining the National Cartoonists Society, go to https://nationalcartoonists.com/how-to-join/ • Get on the mailing list  • More information on the 27 Club • 80th annual Reuben Awards and NCS Conference — August 6-8, 2026   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

In this episode of Best in Fest, host Leslie LaPage sits down with Theresa Demarest, an independent documentary filmmaker whose unconventional path to filmmaking includes life as a musician, critical care nurse, and activist storyteller.Theresa shares how she transitioned into documentary filmmaking while telling the powerful story of Keiko—the orca made famous in Free Willy—and how that project launched her career behind the camera.In this episode, you'll learn:

#918 Big vanity numbers don't always build big businesses. That's why going viral should never be our main goal online. Instead, it's all about fostering superfans and redirecting the attention we get toward meaningful interactions! I'm chatting with Mariane Cresp to bring this point home today. She's an absolute expert at using her reach to inspire a deep sense of community among her followers. I'm especially impressed by how she leverages live streaming and tools like Ecamm Live for next-level connection with her niche audience, all while being authentic and relatable. [affiliate link] Mariane explains each step of her process, from getting targeted views to bringing people into her product ecosystem. She shares how to avoid getting overwhelmed as a beginner, how to keep going on the boring days, the importance of taking imperfect action, why you shouldn't get stuck in the learning phase, and more. Tune in for my incredible chat with Mariane! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session918.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#916 Being real, sharing your journey, creating consistently, and repurposing your content across multiple platforms are tips I share all the time. But what are the actual results you can get if you finally put yourself out there? Today's episode shines a light on a perfect example of taking action daily. That's because I'm joined by the incredible Shuffle Mamas, Christina Reynolds and Anna Blanc, for an awesome behind-the-scenes look at their success story! Christina and Anna are short-form masters who have grown a major business around their passion for shuffle dancing. Before everyone was talking about authenticity, these Kansas City mothers were already posting their journey as complete beginners, bringing people along for the ride as they developed their skills. Now, they share the joy with the tens of thousands of students enrolled in their dance courses. This is truly what expert brand building looks like in 2026. Tune in! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session916.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Growing an audience is easy. Turning that audience into a real business is the part most marketers completely miss. And if you don't understand the difference, you're already behind. In this episode, Daniel sits down with Marc Sirkin, former CEO of Third Door Media and longtime builder behind brands like MarTech.org and Search Engine Land, to unpack what it really takes to grow a media company….and why eyeballs don't automatically equal revenue. From why viral reach doesn't guarantee conversions, to the danger of chasing new revenue streams too early, Marc shares lessons from decades of building audiences across nonprofits, publishing, and modern B2B marketing. They also dive into why performance marketing has warped how we measure success, how brand is becoming the last true moat in an AI-driven world, and why consistency beats chasing the next shiny tactic. If you're a marketer trying to build trust, create sustainable growth, and avoid optimizing for the wrong metrics, this is the episode for YOU. https://customer.io⁠ helps brands turn data into personalized messages that actually connect, across email, SMS, and beyond. Learn more at https://customer.io/tmm Follow Marc: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcsirkin/ Follow Daniel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-murray-marketing/ Sign up for The Marketing Millennials newsletter: www.workweek.com/brand/the-marketing-millennials Daniel is a Workweek friend, working to produce amazing podcasts. To find out more, visit: www.workweek.com

#914 Everything has changed. That's my answer to the question of how the world of online business is today versus how it was when I started. Of course, that was in 2008. But my answer is actually the same if I were to compare right now to this time last year. That's why we have a big change coming at SPI! Listen in on today's session because I need to address the "passive income" elephant in the room. Don't get me wrong, not trading your time for money is still a valid goal to shoot for in business. That said, certain terms associated with this concept have developed a scammy connotation. So tune in to hear how this is all contributing to my shift in a new direction! The big change is right around the corner, so join me to hear about my renewed focus on helping you build a business around your superfans! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session914.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ready to grow your clientele & revenue? Download "The 20 Client Generators" PDF now and get instant access to strategies that will fill your calendar with potential clients. No complicated tech, no lengthy processes—just real strategies that work. https://info.patrigsby.com/20-client-generators Do you want to stop chasing leads and start attracting them instead? Get Instant Access To The Weekly Client Machine For Just $5.00! https://patrigsby.com/weeklyclientmachine Get Your FREE Copy of Pat's Fitness Entrepreneur Handbook! https://patrigsby.com/feh  --- Harnessing the Power of Audience Building for Business Success In this episode, Pat discusses the critical importance of audience building for achieving business success. He shares insights from his recent experiences at a book signing, a university gala, and a Hall of Fame event, highlighting how building a strong and engaged audience can significantly enhance opportunities and growth. Whether you're an author, a university, or a small business, understanding and implementing audience-building strategies can create more connections, increase visibility, and offer greater leverage in your respective fields. 00:00 Introduction to Audience Building 00:53 Real-Life Examples of Audience Building 02:30 The Importance of Audience in Business 02:45 University Gala: Building Donor Relationships 04:54 Hall of Fame Event: Athletic Department Transition 06:13 Universal Truths of Audience Building 07:41 Conclusion: Make Audience Building a Priority

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett dig into the many ways we react to humor — from full-on belly laughs to the silent internal “that was good” response. After that the way, they tackle some big (and surprisingly relatable) topics:Are they actually going to use Patreon Quips?Dave's Bad 2025 — what went wrong, what he learned, and why it mattersWhy you never stop building an audience, even when things feel “established”And yes… being scared of Reddit comments is universal!SummaryIn this episode of Comic Lab, hosts Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar dive into the nature of humor in comics, prompted by a listener's question about whether funny comics truly elicit laughter or if they are simply enjoyable. Brad and Dave explore the subjective nature of humor, sharing their own experiences with laughter and recognition of craft in comedy. Next, they delve into the ongoing journey of building and maintaining an audience in the ever-evolving landscape of comics. They emphasize that there is no such thing as a 'built audience.' Audience engagement is a continuous process that requires constant effort and adaptation. Drawing on the metaphor of the Ship of Theseus, they discuss how creators must regularly replace and update their strategies to keep their audience engaged, acknowledging that audience members may leave for various reasons, including life changes or simply forgetting about the content.The conversation also touches on the emotional toll of negative feedback, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where creators often face harsh criticism. Brad and Dave share personal anecdotes about dealing with trolls and the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of audience engagement. They conclude by reinforcing the idea that the creative journey is ongoing, and that every creator must continually learn and adapt to thrive in the industry.Takeaways"Not every year is going to be gangbusters."There's no such thing as a built audience; you're always in building mode.Audience engagement is like the Ship of Theseus; it's constantly changing.You should aim to gain 2-6% new audience every month to replace those who leave.Negative comments often come from unhappy individuals; don't take them personally.Every creator must continually learn and adapt to thrive in the industry. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

The content marketing pioneer who coined the term in 2001 reveals the urgent reality: creators have 12-24 months to build discoverable human audiences before AI-generated synthetic content makes it nearly impossible. The 99% Problem and the Vinyl Solution Joe Pulizzi drops a startling statistic: 99% of content being created today is heavily influenced by AI. Instagram recently admitted they can't keep up with the flood of AI content and won't even try to block it. But Joe isn't running from AI—he's running WITH it while building something AI can't replicate: authentic human relationships with loyal audiences. His "vinyl strategy": While 99% of content becomes synthetic commodity, human creators can become the premium 1% that builds small audiences who know, like, and trust them. What You'll Learn In this episode, discover: • Why being KNOWN (not famous) is your only competitive moat in the AI age • The urgent 12-24 month window to build your audience before discoverability becomes impossible • Joe's 30-minute daily AI practice using ChatGPT as co-CEO, health coach, and financial advisor • How to find your "tilt"—that one thing you're exceptionally good at for a specific audience • Why email and owned audiences matter more than algorithm-dependent platforms • Why Joe stopped his 527-episode podcast to focus on ONE thing: his newsletter The Tilt • The generational advantage Baby Boomers and Gen Xers have (and how to leverage it) • How to use AI as collaborator while maintaining your authentic voice About Joe Pulizzi Joe Pulizzi is founder of Content Marketing Institute and The Tilt, bestselling author of seven books including Epic Content Marketing (named a Must-Read Business Book by Fortune Magazine) and Burn the Playbook. He coined the term "content marketing" in 2001 and received the Content Council's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014. He successfully exited CMI in 2016. His two weekly podcasts include the award-winning This Old Marketing with Robert Rose (the longest-running marketing news podcast) and Content Inc. (recently concluded after 527 episodes). His foundation, The Orange Effect, delivers speech therapy and technology services to over 450 children in 40+ states. Key Takeaways Curiosity is one of the most human traits—point it in the right direction and opportunities emerge. Block 30 minutes daily for AI experimentation. Write down the 10 things that make you uniquely you. Then start building your audience on ONE platform where you own the relationship. The future belongs to the curious and the known. Episode: 551 Guest: Joe Pulizzi Host: Park Howell Show: Business of Story Topics: AI, Content Marketing, Creator Economy, Audience Building, Synthetic Content, Personal Branding, Newsletter Strategy, Career Development, Retirement Planning

#909 This is how to gauge if something is worth posting. If people can get the same information from ChatGPT, your content isn't good enough! That's because what worked in the past doesn't cut it anymore. Tips, tricks, and how-tos are everywhere. And now, AI models are eating up our knowledge and sharing it with no intention of ever driving traffic to real creators. So, what is the key to audience growth in 2026? How do we build brands that stand out in the age of AI? And essentially, how do we not get replaced? In today's episode, I address these questions and share the mindset shift required to create content with viral potential. Listen in, and don't miss the opportunity to take action right away with my free 30-day video challenge. This is the best way to start posting and go into the New Year winning! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session909.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 59: From Side Hustle to Steady Work: Proven Strategies to Attract and Keep Freelance ClientsIf you've ever wondered “Where do clients actually come from?” – we're breaking it down for you. Whether you're freelancing, consulting, building a service-based business, or exploring a portfolio career, this guide helps you understand how people really find and hire you.You'll learn what actually works to attract clients (and what doesn't), how to build relationships that lead to paid work, and the simple systems that make it easier to generate consistent opportunities. Jenn walks through approachable, real-world steps like sending an introductory email, hosting or joining workshops, tapping into referrals, showing up in aligned communities, and creating a supportive professional ecosystem.This episode is about clarity, confidence, and finding a sustainable way to grow your client base without relying on complicated funnels, constant posting, or high-pressure sales tactics.Episode HighlightsHow freelancers actually find clients — the real sources that work in 2025Why referrals outperform websites, social media, and traditional marketingThe simple email script that can kickstart your freelance or consulting pipelineHow to use workshops, communities, and “other people's audiences” to get discoveredTurning past employers, colleagues, and friends into paying clientsWhat to say when talking about your services so people actually understand and hire youWhy building a portfolio career requires consistent relationship-building, not sales tacticsThe essential systems every freelancer needs: a simple CRM and data-driven habitsEpisode Timestamps00:00 — Freelance Market Trends: Why More People Are Exploring Independent Work(search terms: freelance market trends, independent workers, job market shifts)03:12 — Career Support Opportunities: Retreats, Coaching Bundles & Community Resources(search terms: career coaching, professional development retreats, job search community, career resources)08:07 — Finding Your First Clients: How Service Providers Get Hired(search terms: find your first clients, client acquisition, service providers)11:06 — Referral Strategies That Actually Work for Freelancers and Consultants(search terms: referral strategies, freelance referrals, consulting clients)12:18 — Audience-Building 101: Using Networks, Workshops & Community Visibility(search terms: audience building, professional network growth, workshops, visibility)16:33 — Industry Peers as Partners: Tapping Into Collaborative Networks(search terms: collaborative networks, partnership marketing, freelance networking)20:04 — Turning Past Employers Into Clients (and Pitching Project-Based Work)(search terms: turn employer into client, project-based work, fractional roles)26:48 — Systems That Support Growth: Simple CRMs & Tracking What Matters(search terms: freelance CRM, business systems, client tracking tools)Resources and LinksRevive Your Career Session or BundleWork Wonders Careers Job Search CommunityConnect with Jenn on LinkedInSacred Structures: A Retreat Day for the Capricorn New MoonEpisode 56: How to Create Income Without a Corporate Job: Portfolio Careers, Self Employment and Other Ways to Make $$Episode 57: What to Do When Your Industry Is in Crisis: Resume Strategies and Job Search Tips to Help You Pivot Careers in a Tough MarketCreditsPodcast editing by Vienna DeGiacomo, Good Story Branding

Where should you post if you want to build an audience? Substack delivers unbeatable audience-building tools... but it has some drawbacks. Bluesky is active... but small. Webtoon is terrific... if you're doing the style and content that their users prefer. Patreon has recently added features to promote discoverability and reader-retention. And the legacy social-media platforms — Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook — have been failing creators for years now. Brad and Dave share actionable advice to help you navigate it all.Today's ShowWhat's the best platform for audience building?How to launch a comic in 2026How important is "local"?HuionHuion is sponsoring today's show, and they're offering additional discounts on the following products when you use the discount code: ComicLabKamvas 22 Plus — A luxurious large-screen, high-resolution digital pen display with an etched glass surface that simulates the texture of paper while it protects your eyes from harmful glare.Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) — With a large 13.3-inch screen and an FHD (1920X1080) resolution, this model ensuring seamless collaboration with your laptop. The durable back cover also offers superior protection while ensuring interface stability.Huion Note — You found your new on-the-go brainstorming tool. With writing synchronizing, offline storage, document management, one-click PDF sharing, and portable A5 size, Huion Note will redefine what a new generation of notebooks can do.TakeawaysPsychographics can create connections beyond demographics.Comics can resonate with audiences from different backgrounds.Humor-based storytelling appeals to a wide range of people.Unexpected fan interactions can reveal common interests.Shared love for specific genres can unite diverse individuals.The beauty of human connection lies in shared experiences.Comics can transcend geographical and demographic barriers.Character-based narratives foster deeper audience engagement.Understanding audience psychographics enhances storytelling.Diversity in readership enriches the comic experience.   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

In this episode, I sit down with designer, educator, founder, and category creator, Nick Broekema, the mind behind the booming discipline of Content Design and one of the most recognizable visual brands on LinkedIn™.Nick has built something rare: a business that's 100% inbound. No outreach. No cold emails. No chasing. Just magnetic, systematic content that compounds.We go deep on:How Nick built an audience of 80k+How Content Design became a category, and how he's leading itThe exact steps he took to turn random posting into a businessWhat most creators get wrong on LinkedIn™Why alignment beats hustleThe role of clarity, positioning, and ICP refinementHis pivot from Done-For-You to Cohorts + CommunityAnd the mindset shifts required to scale a highly creative business sustainablyThis is a masterclass in positioning, design, systems, and treating content as a strategic asset - not decoration.Whether you're a founder, a coach, a designer, or someone reinventing their career on LinkedIn, this is a conversation you will want to save.Chapters:00:00 - Teaser Intro00:41 - Re-Framing, Re-Building01:08 - The Early Days & Becoming a Category of One02:50 - From Crickets to Clarity04:10 - The Coach Who Sparked a Category05:23 - Why LinkedIn™? Why Now?07:41 - Quitting, Drifting, and Rediscovering Entrepreneurship09:20 - Choosing LinkedIn™ Over Instagram09:53 - What a Carousel Really Is (and Why It Works)11:30 - Why Visuals Must Be Simple, Clear, and Fast13:49 - How to Build Leads on LinkedIn From Scratch15:44 - Compounding Through Conversation17:05 - The Turning Point: Selling Through Content18:38 - The Three-Month Danger Window19:45 - Quantity → Quality (No Other Shortcut Exists)22:16 - Why You Should Post BEFORE You Need To26:15 - The Multiple Facets of Content Design28:21 - Nick's Design Rules (And Why They Work)30:30 - How His Client Grew 8k Followers and 80k in Revenue32:22 - Trim the Offer: Why Less > More34:28 - The 60% Rule for Positioning36:22 - D.F.Y → D.I.Y: A Pivot That Scales37:52 - Nick's Current Business Model40:10 - Why He's Leaving Done-For-You Behind42:53 - The Rise of In-Person Events44:58 - Why Build a Community?46:32 - Screen-Sharing, Transparency, and “Winging It”48:06 - Jeff's POV on Clarity, Story, and Power of Voice52:02 - Reframing Stage Nerves into Excitement53:36 - Nick's Public Speaking Trauma (And How He Overcame It)55:54 - Expertise + Stories = Unshakeable Confidence57:15 - The Anchor of Inbound-Only58:10 - Jeff on Remembering Your Own Value59:41 - Jeff's Storytelling Background & Business Model01:02:52 - Naming, Positioning & Not Getting “Too Cute”Connect with Jeff Abracen on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffabracen/]If you are or know a disruptive influencer who would make a great guest, we'd love to hear from you. Every Like, Share, Subscription and Review means a lot.Cover art by Daniel DevoyMusic by Stephen Voyce©2024 The Disruptive Influence Podcast - Jeff Abracen

#901 I was wrong. Going against one of my core beliefs proved it and changed everything! For years, I championed the idea that long-form content was the only real way to build a loyal audience. I was especially hard on the growing popularity of TikTok. But that all changed when I finally understood what it takes to attract superfans, one sixty-second video at a time. Now, my short-form series, Should I Open It, or Should I Keep It Sealed?, has become the number one thing I'm known for. Listen in because, in this episode, I reveal how I went from skeptic to believer. I've picked up over a billion views in process and have serious additional revenue coming in, so don't miss this session! I'll share the importance of consistency and authenticity, and why showing up daily might be the most powerful growth strategy we have right now. Tune in to build an audience without following cheesy trends! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session901.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#900 Before you even have them, building your business with your future superfans in mind is the secret to success. That's what I'm diving into for this special milestone episode! 900 sessions in, the Superfans concept is still the number one idea behind my biggest wins. It's helped me write a bestselling book, build communities around my work, and create brands that stand out and thrive. In the age of AI, this principle is more relevant than ever! So, what drives someone to become a superfan? In this episode, I walk you through the pyramid of fandom and share exactly how to turn casual followers into lifelong advocates. From speaking your audience's language and providing quick wins to building community and showing up live, these simple actions can supercharge your brand's growth! If you're ready to attract fans who'll stick around for the long run, don't miss this session! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session900.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brad thinks Kickstarter is the right place to go for a Brazilian cartoonist who wants to have his work re-published in English, but Dave thinks his co-host is Lost in Translation. Then, the dynamic duo gives some advice to a pro-am cartoonist who just lost their day job and is considering making the move to full-time cartooning. But first, Brad and Dave share some comic convention horror stories.SummaryIn this episode of ComicLab, hosts Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the chaotic experiences of comic conventions, the challenges of translating comics for the English market, and the importance of building an audience. They also provide advice for cartoonists who have been laid off, emphasizing the need for financial stability. The conversation touches on the realities of comic publishing and the necessity of having an emergency fund when transitioning to full-time cartooning.TakeawaysComic conventions can be chaotic and noisy environments.Translation of comics can be a significant time investment.Building an audience is crucial before launching a comic.Kickstarter can serve as a market research tool for comics.Having an emergency fund is essential for transitioning to full-time cartooning.The comic market in North America is larger than in Brazil.It's important to consider the demand for your work before translating it.Creating new work may be more beneficial than translating old work.Networking and social media can help build an audience for new comics.Financial stability is key when considering a career in comics. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

What if the events you hosted didn't just build authority, but actually filled your programs with clients? So many experts pour time, money, and energy into hosting workshops, summits, or online events, only to end up exhausted with little to no return. The truth is, events can be one of the most powerful ways to grow your business - if you design them with conversion in mind. In episode 460 of the Amplify Your Success Podcast, Kristine Genovese joins me for an On Air Coaching session focused on how to shift her event strategy so she's not just inspiring attendees, but creating an experience that does more than just provide massive value — it naturally leads to new clients. If you've been feeling like your events are too much effort for too little results, this episode will give you a fresh perspective and practical strategies to host profitable, client-converting events. Key Takeaways: [04:12] Why most events fail to convert — and how to shift your focus from giving value and filling seats to filling programs. [07:48] The importance of positioning your event around client outcomes (not just information). [12:30] How Kristine can use her unique expertise to create a signature event that naturally leads to enrollments. [16:55] Why event structure matters — and the small tweaks that turn attendees into clients. [21:47] The role of invitations: how to make your offers feel authentic instead of “salesy.” [27:10] What Kristine learned about creating alignment between her event format and her business goals. [32:40] Melanie's coaching on building authority through events that keep working long after the last attendee leaves.   Connect With The Guest: Connect with Kristine on LinkedIn  Follow Kristine on Instagram  Connect with Kristine on Facebook  Check out Kristine's Website For Some Great Resources    Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Suspect you could be squandering your guest appearance ROI? Download my FREE 17 Mistakes Guests Make That Cost Them The Lead & Client Scorecard so you can avoid these common mistakes, as a guest expert, and start seeing better results. Ready to monetize and optimize your guest appearances? I've opened up 2 Monetization Sessions Get details and apply here.  Discover how to host epic summits that boost authority and fill your programs with the Fast Track Summit System.   

What is Community Building? Is it different from Audience Building? is covered in this video, along with the following subjects:- How do you build a community for your brand?- How Community Building Drives Customer Loyalty- Strategies for Community Growth and Sustainability***************************************Community building and audience building are two concepts that, while interconnected, serve different purposes. Community building focuses on creating a space where individuals feel connected, valued, and engaged with one another. Unlike audience building, which typically focuses on attracting passive followers or consumers, community building emphasizes engagement and participation among members. I'll be talking with Seth Resler about What is Community Building? Is it different from Audience Building?Seth Resler teaches event producers and content creators how to maximize their revenue by leveraging the power of community building.With deep expertise in developing and nurturing both digital and in-person spaces, Seth helps foster ongoing connections among community members. These communities not only strengthen relationships but also open new streams of revenue for event producers and content creators. He is the founder of Community Marketing Revolution, an initiative designed to teach brands how to harness the power of community building. Over the past 30 years, Seth has produced hundreds of events, ranging from industry conferences and music festivals to competitions and expos. He has worked with the organizers of industry-leading events, including CES, the NAB Show, and Podcast Movement, as well as top content creators such as The Bob & Tom Show, Audacy, and Cox Media Group.In 2013, Seth was honored with a citation from the mayor of Providence for launching Taste Trekkers, the country's first food tourism conference — a pioneering effort that showcased his commitment to creating innovative community experiences.

In this week's episode of the YouTube Creators Hub Podcast, Roberto Blake joins me to break down the real state of YouTube in 2025. We dive into why 90% of creators never reach 1,000 subscribers, the surprising number of videos it takes to hit 100K, and how Shorts, live streaming, AI tools, and dynamic ad insertion are reshaping the creator economy. Whether you're just starting out or scaling toward full-time, this conversation is packed with strategies you can apply right now. What We Offer Creators Join Creator Communities. A place to gather with other creators every single day. This provides access to Our Private Discord Server, Monthly Mastermind Group, and MORE!  Hire Dusty To Be Your YouTube Coach YouTube Channel Reviews (Audit): Get a 7-10 minute personalized video review of your YouTube channel with honest, actionable feedback for just $50. Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: Each week I document what I'm doing in my business and creative journey, share new things I've discovered, mistakes I've made, and much more! All Tools Mentioned On The Show: The Ultimate Entrepreneurs Resource. This is the spreadsheet where I keep all of the tools mentioned by all the guests on the podcast. BEST TOOLS FOR CREATORS and ENTREPRENEURS: YouTube Optimization (Creative Fuel): https://geni.us/oPCt7Cf Hire Freelancers and Artists (Fiverr): https://geni.us/h4zMWAP Podcast Hosting (Libsyn): https://geni.us/TrpwY0 GeniusLink Link Shortener: https://geni.us/fHPAe Stock Assets For Creators (Envato): https://geni.us/rlEKkLB E-commerce (Shopify): https://geni.us/m9ctWwe Podcast Recording and Editing (Riverside.FM) https://geni.us/PLlt1M My YouTube Film Gear:

Your story isn't too messy, too boring, or too personal to share.It's the very thing that sets you apart.And Holly Crawshaw Joyner has built her entire business helping leaders do exactly that.Holly's ghostwritten 120+ books and built a standout brand on LinkedIn by being raw, honest, and far from perfect. She knows what it takes to turn life experience into the kind of authority that makes people stop scrolling, and start listening.In this episode, Holly joins Stacy to discuss: The behind-the-scenes lessons from ghostwriting 120+ books (and what actually makes a good one)How she built her business, The Story Spark, as a single mom during the pandemicThe honesty-over-perfection strategy that made her brand stand out on LinkedInWhy LinkedIn is still the most underrated platform for introverts + thought leadersSmart AI hacks to turn posts, podcasts, and raw ideas into publishable contentThe real talk on self, hybrid, and traditional publishing (and how to know which path is right for you)If you've ever thought about publishing a book, or finally leveraging LinkedIn to grow your business, this conversation will help you find the courage to get started. More about Holly: Holly Crawshaw Joyner is a New York Times-bestselling ghostwriter. Since entering publishing in 2006, Holly has ghostwritten, edited, and coached well over 1,000 titles. In addition to the NYT Bestseller, other projects Holly has worked on have topped the most prestigious lists in the industry including Amazon Bestseller, Amazon Best New Release, and Amazon Top 100, among others.She's written books for all the major publishing houses, including HarperCollins, Penguin, Random House, Baker, and Hachette.Since 2021, Holly has also been ghostwriting for and coaching clients on LinkedIn, teaching them how to build a brand and grow an engaged audience. In 2024 Holly was named the #1 U.S. LinkedIn creator for Audience Building and Brand Awareness. In 2025 she was listed as one of  the Top 20 LinkedIn experts worldwide. Holly is married to Drew. They live in Atlanta with her three daughters. She is a self-professed cat lady with an addiction to sour candy.Want More Help With Storytelling? +  Subscribe to my newsletter to get a weekly email that helps you use your words to power your growth:https://www.stacyhavener.com/subscribe  - - -Make The Boutique Investment Collective part of your Billion Dollar Backstory. Gain access to invaluable resources, expert coaches, and a supportive community of other boutique founders, fund managers, and investment pros. Join Havener Capital's exclusive membership. ---Running a fund is hard enough.Ops shouldn't be.Meet the team that makes it easier. | billiondollarbackstory.com/ultimus

Send us a textGrowing your organization is about smarter, easier touchpoints. It's about how small nonprofits can show up where people already are, build real connection, and grow a brand that attracts donors, partners, and advocates.  In this episode of The Small Nonprofit Podcast, host Maria Rio is joined by Christa Stelzmuller, Chief Technology Officer at Charity: Water. Christa brings a wealth of experience leading technology, product, and data innovation at one of the world's most recognized nonprofits. Together, they dig into how nonprofits can use technology and partnerships to deepen empathy, engage new audiences, and grow sustainable revenue. Audience Building for Nonprofits: The Highlights Nonprofits don't need to compete for scraps: The real opportunity is to expand generosity overall. Whether through brand partnerships, tech, or social enterprise models, the sector wins when the giving pie gets bigger. Trust is a built-in nonprofit advantage: Strict reporting and transparency requirements give nonprofits credibility that influencers or corporations cannot always guarantee. Technology can drive revenue, not just costs: At Charity: Water, tech is seen as a way to build donor products, deepen engagement, and grow giving - not just an overhead line item. Partnerships are powerful growth tools: From influencers to retail experiences, nonprofits can use creative partnerships to show up in everyday spaces where people already spend their time and money. Long-term sustainability matters: Unlike corporate campaigns, nonprofits are designed to deliver solutions that last. We're experts at building trust with communities and donors who want to see their dollars have real staying power. 

This is the 5th episode in my 6-part Authority Short Cuts series, designed to give you quick, high-impact ways to amplify your visibility, credibility, and client attraction. What if you could skip the grind of chasing social algorithms, pouring hours into content, or spending thousands on ads and instead, tap into a built-in audience that's already waiting to hear your message? That's the power of podcast guesting.

It took me a long while to realize this: AI isn't just something like a chatbot for my customers. AI can work behind the scenes to facilitate getting the right stuff in front of the right people for me, even just to figure out who people are and how I should talk to them. And today, I want to share exactly what I'm doing, how expensive this is to run, and how I believe this can be part of every single software as a service business out there—even if you don't have any touchpoint with artificial intelligence in that business at all. Even if you don't think you should be offering AI features to your customers.This episode of The Bootstraped Founder is sponsored by Paddle.com — SaaS Happy Hour SeriesThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/the-0-20-day-ai-system-that-converts-trial-users-into-paying-customers/ The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/the-0-20-day-ai-system-that-converts-trial-users-into-paying-customersCheck out Podscan, the Podcast database that transcribes every podcast episode out there minutes after it gets released: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw

On this episode of the Apartment Syndication Made Easy Podcast, Vinney Chopra sits down with Tony DUrso — five-time best-selling author and host of The Tony DUrso Show with over 50 million downloads — to reveal the secrets behind building a lasting personal brand through podcasting. From humble beginnings in Sicily to becoming a globally recognized voice, Tony's story is a masterclass in turning passion into influence.   In this episode, you'll discover:

In this episode of Confessions of a B2B Entrepreneur, host Jamie Pagan, from the Revenue Career Ladder podcast, speaks with Tom Hunt, founder of the B2B podcasting agency Fame. They discuss Tom's unconventional career journey, beginning with early jobs frying chips and washing dishes, which instilled a strong work ethic. The conversation traces his path through large consulting firms like Ernst & Young, and Accenture, where he learned invaluable soft skills and remote management. It then covers his entrepreneurial ventures, from a failed male leggings company to a successful SaaS business, before he finally doubled down on his passion for marketing and audience building to create Fame. This episode provides an honest and tactical look at how a non-linear career path can lead to entrepreneurial success.

If you're a coach, creator, or entrepreneur who wants to sell more, scale faster, and show up more authentically—this conversation with Myron Golden is a must. I recently sat down to interview my mentor Myron at his Mouth to Millions Mastermind event in Clearwater Beach Florida and we dove deep into why authenticity is the new currency, how to win with long-form content (especially YouTube), and the golden rule for knowing what to give away for free vs. what to charge for. Myron's mindset and strategies have changed my business—and they can change yours too. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Audience Building 04:48 Branding as a Catalyst for Success 07:55 Authenticity in the Age of AI 10:49 The Impact of Long-Form Content 13:50 Immersion Creates Conversion 16:36 Community Service Content vs. Paid Content 24:42 The Power of Belief in Coaching 25:44 Be, Do, Have: The Success Principle 27:21 Transforming the Individual: The Key to Sales 29:13 The Impact of Storytelling in Coaching 30:30 Empowering True Identity in Coaching 31:53 Content Creation: Never Running Out of Ideas 39:24 Understanding Client Needs: Content and Context 43:29 NEWCHAPTER

Today, I'll share how I've been preparing Podscan (and long before that, another SaaS business) to be ready to be acquired at a moment's notice. This episode of The Bootstraped Founder is sponsored by Paddle.comThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/making-your-business-sellable-even-if-you-never-plan-to-sell/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/406-making-your-business-sellable-even-if-you-never-plan-to-sellCheck out Podscan, the Podcast database that transcribes every podcast episode out there minutes after it gets released: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw

#880 In a world of infinite choice, standing out from the crowd is key. While others are chasing algorithms, you can and should build something worth talking about. So, forget the marketing hacks and focus on the one strategy that always works: word of mouth! I just had over five thousand people attend my Card Party Pokémon event in Florida. I spent zero dollars on ads to attract this massive crowd, so listen in to find out what I focused on instead! While traditional marketing is ineffective, going above and beyond for your audience will always get people talking. In this episode, I cover how to get shares, the psychological triggers that drive word of mouth, and the mistakes to avoid. I also explain the easiest way to access and leverage highly targeted audiences with online groups and communities. This method has been working wonders, so don't miss out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session880.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if you could scale your business without burning out, and lead with clarity—even during your toughest seasons?In this episode of the Working Women Mentor podcast, Rani Alfers sits down with Caitlin Bacher—entrepreneur, course creation expert, and mentor to business owners navigating the world of evergreen strategy. Caitlin opens up about her transition from social media manager to CEO, and how she redefined what success looked like for her, both in business and in life.Together, they dive into how mentorship can provide a blueprint during uncertain times, why finding your unique value proposition is essential in today's crowded market, and how understanding emotional cycles (like the Dunning-Kruger effect) can empower smarter business decisions.Whether you're a course creator, corporate leader, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is full of practical, honest insights you can apply immediately. Discover how to own your voice, scale with purpose, and embrace growth—without losing yourself along the way.Guest Links & Additional Episode Mentions:Website: https://caitlinbacher.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitlinbacher/ Want to be a guest? If you have a mentor moment that could inspire someone else DM us GUEST on Instagram, or Apply to be a guest here: https://www.ranialfers.com/apply-to-be-a-guest/Connect with our community on: https://www.instagram.com/workingwomenmentor/

91% of consumers today make buying decisions based on a brand's purpose—not just its products. Yet most entrepreneurs are still stuck pitching features, funnels, and stats.In today's episode, I dive deep into the Purpose Story, the third foundational story from Stories That Stick by Kindra Hall. You'll discover how your deeper mission—not your marketing tactics—is the real engine for sustainable growth, trust, and community.If you want to build a brand that people believe in, not just buy from, this episode will show you how to craft a Purpose Story that rallies your audience, inspires loyalty, and helps you create a movement—not just a business.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy people crave meaning, not marketing—and how to give it to themHow to craft a Purpose Story that builds community and loyaltyThe three-part story arc to make your mission stick (Normal → Explosion → New Normal)Prompts to help you find the moment your mission was bornHow to embed your Purpose Story across your business: hiring, marketing, sales, and leadershipReal-world examples of micro and macro Purpose Stories in actionKey Takeaways✔️People don't follow products—they follow purpose.✔️Movements are built by sharing stories, not selling offers.✔️Your Purpose Story is the mirror where your audience sees their values reflected.✔️Alignment isn't a buzzword—it's a business strategy.✔️Purpose-driven brands create loyalty that transcends features, prices, or competitors.✔️Your mission deserves to be shared—and to invite others to stand alongside it. Timestamps[00:00] – Why most brands are focusing on the wrong thing[02:00] – Welcome to Part 4 of the Stories That Stick series[05:00] – What is a Purpose Story, and why does it matter?[07:00] – How Purpose Stories create emotional alignment[10:00] – The three-part storytelling framework for your Purpose Story[12:00] – Prompts to uncover your mission-defining moment[14:00] – How to make your Purpose Story relatable and real[18:00] – Tips to avoid “sanitizing” your story—keep it raw and resonant[21:00] – Where to use your Purpose Story across your brand[24:00] – Real-world example of crafting a Purpose Story[27:00] – Final invitation: Write and share your Purpose Story this weekChoose Your Next Steps:Take 30 minutes and journal: What broke your heart? What woke you up?Craft a rough draft of your Purpose Story (normal → explosion → new normal)Share it somewhere—email, social media, a team meeting, or a video post.Tag me on Instagram @itsgeorgebryant so I can celebrate your movement with you!This is the fourth episode in a special 5-part podcast series on mastering storytelling for entrepreneurs, based on Stories That Stick by Kindra Hall.Download your free companion workbook to reflect, take action, and make the most out of this series.Click here to access the workbook!Make sure to listen to the other episodes in the series too (linked below) to complete your storytelling blueprint!Ep. 591 Stories That Stick: The Four Stories Every Entrepreneur Needs to TellEp. 593 The Value Story – Sell the Transformation, Not the ThingEp. 595 The Founder Story – Turn Your Why Into ConnectionJoin The Alliance – The Relationship Beats Algorithms™ community for entrepreneurs who lead with heartApply for 1:1 Coaching – Scale your business with simplicity, alignment, and purposeLive Events – Get in the room where movements are born: mindofgeorge.com/event

Ready to grow your clientele & revenue? Download "The 20 Client Generators" PDF now and get instant access to strategies that will fill your calendar with potential clients. No complicated tech, no lengthy processes—just real strategies that work. https://info.patrigsby.com/20-client-generators Do you want to stop chasing leads and start attracting them instead? Get Instant Access To The Weekly Client Machine For Just $5.00! https://patrigsby.com/weeklyclientmachine Get Your FREE Copy of Pat's Fitness Entrepreneur Handbook! https://patrigsby.com/feh  --- The Power of Audience Building in Long-Term Business Success In this episode, a seasoned entrepreneur shares insights from over 20 years of experience in business ownership. The discussion focuses on the ever-evolving landscape of business tools and techniques, highlighting the things that remain constant. The importance of audience building is emphasized as a key strategy for business growth and retention. The speaker explains how audience building, even with low-friction methods like offering free content, nurtures better client relationships and long-term success. By recounting personal examples and experiences, the entrepreneur advises against overly transactional approaches and underscores the value of creating a community that aligns with the business's goals and values.  00:00 Introduction: Reflecting on 20 Years in Business 00:18 The Evolution of Business Tools and Practices 00:49 Timeless Strategies: What Hasn't Changed 01:25 The Power of Audience Building 02:37 Personal Experience with Lead Magnets 04:37 The Importance of Relationship Building 06:28 Qualifying Clients: Desire vs. Ability to Pay 08:37 Audience Building: The Key to Sustainable Success 11:26 Conclusion: Prioritize Audience Building

Is it OK to change your comic after you've already sent it to your audience? The guys also tackle tariffs, ISBNs, bar codes, and offering comics to charity organizations.Today's showMaking a change to a comic after it's "out there"Susan MacTaggart's personal affirmationUPDATE: Tariffs on books??ISBNs and bar codes for self-published booksComics for CharitySummaryIn this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the nuances of humor writing, the importance of building an audience on new platforms, and the challenges of editing long-form comics. They discuss the creative process, social-media presence's significance, and tariffs' implications on publishing. The dialogue emphasizes the need for flexibility in creative work and the importance of adapting to changes in the industry. In the mid-show update, they discuss the complexities of navigating tariffs and customs in the publishing industry, particularly for self-publishers. They emphasize the importance of planning for potential costs, such as tariffs, when launching Kickstarter campaigns. The conversation then shifts to the necessity of ISBNs and barcodes for self-published works, highlighting their role in making books trackable and sellable. Finally, they explore how cartoonists can contribute to charitable causes through their work, encouraging creators to produce comics that align with their values and to share them independently without burdening charities.TakeawaysYou never know if your humor resonates until years later.Building an audience on new platforms is crucial.Reflecting on past work can reveal unexpected humor.Editing is a natural part of the creative process.Mistakes can be corrected easily before print.Social media can serve as a distributed editing tool.It's important to be happy with your work in the long run.Tariffs can impact the publishing industry significantly.Trust in the system can be a challenge for creators.Engaging with attentive fans can create strong connections.Assume the worst when planning for tariffs in publishing.Include potential tariffs in your Kickstarter budget.ISBNs and barcodes are essential for self-published books.ISBNs help track books in the international registry.Barcodes are necessary for selling through retailers.Charities may not need unsolicited comics due to their workload.Creators can impact causes without direct charity involvement.Comics can be a powerful tool for social change.Plan independently to avoid complications with charities.Charities are skilled at asking for the resources they need. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Building a sustainable art business requires more than just making good work. It requires showing up consistently, connecting with the right people, and staying true to a long-term vision—even when that means setting difficult boundaries. In this conversation, Noelle Phares returns to talk with host Alyson Stanfield about the structures she's put in place to support her thriving art career. From smart use of assistants and art festivals to strategic decisions around galleries and commissions, Noelle has built her success by staying fiercely committed to audience building. Here's what's ahead: How Noelle balances artistic independence with professional growth. Why she made audience-building a priority early on—and how she continues to nurture it. The systems and support team she's built to stay focused on creating. Setting boundaries with galleries and protecting her studio sales. The importance of maintaining multiple price points and income streams. Noelle's approach is a masterclass in running an art business with vision, strategy, and heart.

She's bold. She's brilliant. She's built a brand that's helped thousands of entrepreneurs grow their business using Instagram — and she's sharing everything she's learned along the way. In this energetic episode, Sue B. Zimmerman drops powerful truths about standing out online, owning your expertise, building real relationships, and why you don't need to have it all figured out to start showing up with confidence.Whether you're launching a brand, pivoting your message, or trying to get seen in a scroll-happy world — this episode is packed with actionable advice and fresh perspective.We talk about:How Sue B. built her personal brand and claimed her space as The Instagram ExpertThe myth of perfection and the real secret to sustainable successWhy comparing yourself online is the fastest way to kill your confidencePractical strategies for Instagram growth (especially if you're starting from zero!)Why collaboration > competition — and how to build a list of 50 power connectionsThe truth about visibility, brand evolution, and staying relevantHow to communicate your value without giving it all awayThe mindset shift that will help you charge what you're worth

When does a running gag stop being funny — and where does it start, for that matter? Cartoonists Brad and Dave must first agree on what a running gag is! Next, they'll talk about aesthetics — in other words, how does one develop their editorial eye? Finally, Dave reviews his accounting from last year's San Diego Comic-Con and discusses how it influences his decisions for this year's show.Today's ShowWhen does a running gag go too far?Developing an editorial eyeUPDATE: San Diego Comic-Con numbersSummaryIn this episode of Comic Lab, hosts Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the nuances of humor in comics, focusing on the use of running gags and tropes. They discuss the importance of timing, audience familiarity, and the subjective nature of humor. The conversation also delves into the challenges of building an audience in webcomics and the significance of developing an editorial eye for creators. Through various examples, they highlight how running gags can engage audiences while cautioning against overuse. In the next topic, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the importance of critical reading and learning from excellent and poor comic industry works. They emphasize the need for creators to develop an editorial eye by consuming a wide range of content, understanding audience expectations, and being open to honest feedback. The episode finally touches on the economic realities of attending comic conventions, particularly San Diego Comic-Con, and how creators can navigate the changing landscape of the comic industry.TakeawaysRunning gags can enhance humor but must be used wisely.Timing and audience familiarity are crucial in comedy.The rule of threes is a guideline for running gags.Developing an editorial eye takes time and practice.Reading a variety of comics helps improve your craft.Surprise is a key element in effective humor.Character-driven comedy can create memorable running gags.Webcomics require a different approach to running gags than print comics.Familiarity can trigger emotional responses beyond humor.The balance of surprise and familiarity is essential in comedy. Reading with a critical eye is necessary for creators.Learning from both great and poor works is valuable.Understanding why certain choices are made in storytelling is crucial.Diverse reading helps inform your creative process.Feedback is vital, but discernment is necessary to know what to take.Comic conventions can be economically challenging for creators.The landscape of comic creation has changed significantly over the years.Creators must adapt to modern audience expectations.Honest feedback can be hard to accept but is necessary for growth.Networking at conventions should be weighed against potential losses. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Send Us a Text MessageAs podcast guests, most of us like the idea of sharing past episodes that we were featured on. But, figuring out how to do this effectively can be a challenge. Thankfully, there's a formula that you can follow that yields results! In this episode, Deirdre Tshien shares a quick, simple, and effective 3-post strategy to use on Facebook that will elevate your podcast guesting success. Get ready to finally share episodes in a way your host will love, and that will boost your engagement!MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/324Chapters00:00 Introduction to Effective Facebook Strategies02:24 The Three Say Me Posts Explained05:11 Creating Your Lead Magnet08:38 Engagement Through the Why Post10:50 Building Relationships via DM Conversations12:43 Overcoming Audience and Messaging ChallengesTakeawaysCreate three Facebook posts a week for engagement.Use existing podcast content to generate leads.Lead magnets should address quick solutions.Engagement on social media boosts visibility.Direct messages are crucial for building relationships.Identify your audience for effective messaging.Test different messages to find what resonates.Engagement metrics can guide your strategy.Building a list is essential for business growth.Social media strategies require ongoing adjustments.MORE FROM THIS EPISODE: HTTPS://PODMATCH.COM/EP/324PodMatch has officially launched a podcast network for independent interview-based podcasts! To apply to be part of the network, please visit https://PodMatch.com/network and press the "Join Network" button in the top center of the screen. While you're there, be sure to check out some of the incredible shows in the network!

Social media has convinced an entire generation of creators to focus on numbers — followers, subscribers, likes, shares, and other engagement metrics. However, focusing on numbers can often lead an artist to make bad decisions.Today's ShowFocusing on numbersLimiting comments on BSkyUPDATE: Hoganmag.comLost the Kickstarter mojoComic book vs graphic novelSummaryIn this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss recent updates on Blue Sky, a social media platform, and how it offers a healthier commenting environment. They emphasize the importance of quality followers over quantity, sharing insights from their own experiences with Kickstarter campaigns and the ineffectiveness of traditional social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. The conversation concludes with a focus on engagement metrics and the need for creators to prioritize passionate followers rather than simply chasing numbers. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss the importance of building the right audience for comics, emphasizing the shift from merely increasing follower counts to fostering passionate engagement. They explore the challenges of navigating social media changes, the necessity of embracing change in the webcomics industry, and the emotional toll of crowdfunding campaigns like Kickstarter. The discussion culminates in advice for rekindling motivation and finding joy in the creative process amidst uncertainty. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the emotional and practical aspects of running Kickstarter campaigns, the importance of market testing, and the structural elements that contribute to a successful project. They also discuss the significance of listening to one's inner voice during creative endeavors and reflect on the differences between comic books and graphic novels, emphasizing the evolution of sequential art.TakeawaysOrganizing your workspace can be a form of avoidance.Blue Sky's new commenting features promote a healthier online environment.Quality followers are more valuable than a large follower count.Kickstarter success can be achieved without relying on traditional social media.Engagement metrics should focus on passionate followers, not just numbers.Turning off public comments can improve mental well-being for creators.Social media platforms should be evaluated based on their effectiveness for business.Creators should prioritize platforms that allow for direct engagement with their audience.The herd mentality in social media can lead to poor decision-making. Building the right audience is crucial for success.Focusing on passionate engagement is more important than follower counts.Social media platforms can change, and so should your strategy.Embrace change as a constant in the webcomics industry.Kickstarter campaigns can be emotionally exhausting but are part of the process.It's natural to feel doubt after a failed campaign.Finding joy in the creative process is essential for motivation.You are not alone in your struggles as a creator.Being pragmatic about social media is key to success.Every upheaval in the industry can lead to new opportunities. Challenges can ignite motivation and creativity.Finding personal motivation is key to success.Kickstarter serves as a valuable market testing tool.Emotional tolls are part of the creative process.Structuring your Kickstarter effectively can lead to better outcomes.Listening to your inner voice can guide your decisions.Evaluating past projects helps in future planning.The distinction between comic books and graphic novels is significant.Comic books are often seen as disposable, while graphic novels are more permanent.Creative paths may need reevaluation based on market feedback. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

This week's episode is sponsored by Hogan's Alley magazine! We'll discuss those moments in our careers when we said, "F*** me! That actually worked!" Also, a listener writes in to say that they want to take our advice and make the jump to Bluesky, but it causes too much anxiety.SponsorHogan's Alley magazine sponsors this week's episode!  In the next issue, they'll cover the Tijuana Bibles and much more! Get your copy now!Today's ShowHogan's Alley magazine"F*** me! That actually worked!"UPDATE: Diamond Comics DistributorsUPDATE: The Wrong Way"Bluesky stresses me out!"SummaryIn this episode, Dave and Brad are pleased to welcome the sponsorship of Hogan's Alley Magazine! The conversation starts with  a discussion about unexpected successes in the comics industry, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on what works in webcomics and the importance of niche topics. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss their evolving experiences with monetization in the comic industry, reflecting on their initial skepticism towards various platforms like T-shirts, advertising, and crowdfunding. They share personal anecdotes about their misjudgments regarding new technologies and trends, emphasizing the importance of humility and adaptability in their careers. Two mid-show updates touch on the recent bankruptcy of Diamond Comics Distributors and their new show, The Wrong Way. In this conversation, Brad and Dave discuss the challenges and anxieties surrounding social media for artists, particularly in building an online presence while focusing on their craft. They explore the importance of self-promotion, the consequences of delaying engagement with social media, and the potential of new platforms like Blue Sky. The discussion emphasizes the need for artists to balance their creative work with the realities of marketing and audience building while addressing the mental health aspects of sharing their work online.TakeawaysHogan's Alley Magazine is a significant resource for comic history.Niche topics in webcomics can lead to unexpected success.Webrings can significantly boost site traffic and engagement.Comics history is often overlooked but is vital for understanding the medium.The internet favors focused, passionate content over general interest.Understanding your audience is key to successful cartooning.Comics can be both serious and joyful, reflecting their cultural impact. T-shirts as a monetization strategy were initially surprising.Advertising proved to be a lucrative avenue for comics.Skepticism towards Kickstarter was common in its early days.Technological advancements can change the way comics are created and consumed.Vertical scrolling comics have become a preferred format for mobile readers.Humility is crucial in recognizing when to adapt to new trends.Keeping an eye on peers can lead to valuable learning opportunities.The bankruptcy of Diamond Comics marks a significant moment in the industry.Independent comics are evolving beyond traditional distribution methods.Embracing discomfort can lead to growth and new opportunities. Focus on improving your craft before engaging on social media.If social media causes anxiety, it's okay to wait.Blue Sky is currently a growing platform for audience building.Social media fatigue is a common issue for artists.Self-promotion is essential for making a living from art.Building an audience takes time and effort.Sharing your work gets easier with practice.Consider the consequences of delaying social media engagement.It's important to find a balance between art and marketing.Artists can impact the world even as a hobby. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

#854 Is passive income just a myth social media gurus like to spread? Many people misunderstand the path to success and financial freedom. The truth is that passive income is a realistic goal, but only as the very last step in your income generation process. There's nothing passive about building an online business as a beginner! That said, I want to share something to help you on your journey. In this episode, I'll let you in on the system I and thousands of other entrepreneurs have used to build legitimate online businesses. I'm talking about my SMART framework. Listen in on this session to hear all about it! This is the fastest way to go from idea to monetization. I'll cover selecting a niche and social media platform, building an audience and email list, launching a minimum viable product, and taking back your time. Tune in to access my structured approach to sustainable passive income! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session854.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#842 It's happening. After neglecting LinkedIn from day one, I'm committing to giving it a real shot with daily posts over the next three months. Listen in to hear how I'm approaching this experiment and giving myself a leg up to succeed! The thing about LinkedIn is that it offers a unique opportunity to connect with engaged professionals. This audience wants valuable business connections and insights, which is the bread and butter of what we do at SPI. That's why I won't chase vanity metrics on the platform. Instead, I'll pay close attention to my metrics while focusing on driving people to my Unstuck newsletter and the new SPI Community. My hypothesis is that consistent, high-value content tailored for the LinkedIn audience will attract and convert the right kind of people. I'm learning what works from the best, so tune in to follow this journey and get my top strategies! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session842.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.