Podcasts about conversation starter

Gen Z is discovering that intuition is not the same as anxiety, poor dead Nimrod Workman never stood a chance, and the foraging trend is more than just a recession indicator. Song of the Week: "serena joy" Click here for the lyrics. Click here to watch the Conversation Starter episode on analog hobbies amongst teens. In Other News: People on TikTok are wondering if their boyfriends can read. A new trend involves women filming their boyfriends as they attempt to say words like "epitome," "fuchsia," or "paradigm" correctly. Pumpkin spice is over. Matcha and chai seem to be outperforming the once-beloved fall beverage. Other novelty flavors like miso-caramel, brown-butter honey and smoked butterscotch are also crowding out the once-beloved PSL, according to The Washington Post. Searches for CD players are up 96% since July, The Guardian reports. Demand for CD recordings of artists like Olivia Rodrigo, Ariana Grande, and Olivia Dean is driving the skyrocketing demand. Professional gamers, also called esports players, are dealing with injuries similar to those of assembly-line workers: hand and wrist pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tendonitis. A new term just dropped. A "meat proxy" is someone who shares AI-generated text with somebody without reading it—operating as the go-between for the other person and the AI system, according to Business Insider (paywall). memes about World War 3.  

What happens when you say yes to something God is asking you to do that seems completely crazy? Molly's story is proof that God can use the most unexpected things to open doors, start conversations, bring hope, and point people to Jesus. What began with a backpack full of cheese balls eventually became a unique ministry that has reached people across the United States and even around the world. Molly shares how an unconventional idea became a powerful conversation starter—and how she learned that obedience matters far more than whether something looks impressive to other people. But this conversation goes far beyond cheese balls. Molly opens up about her family's journey into American Ninja Warrior, how a simple geocaching discovery changed the direction of her family's life, and how God has continued to lead her through unexpected valleys and victories. She also shares about surviving open-heart surgery and her upcoming devotional, Surrender to the Surgeon, a deeply personal collection of 90 honest, hopeful, and humorous devotionals drawn from her journey. This episode is a powerful reminder that your platform may not look like someone else's—and that's okay. God can use your story, your personality, your family, your passions, and even the things other people don't understand to accomplish His purposes. As Molly says, the heart of it all is found in 1 Corinthians 10:31: “Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” In this episode, you'll hear about: How Molly's cheese-ball ministry began Why she started wearing cheese balls in public How God can use unusual ideas to start spiritual conversations The incredible story of how geocaching led her family to American Ninja Warrior Learning to recognize God's direction in the seemingly insignificant moments What obedience looks like when you don't understand the bigger picture Molly's journey through open-heart surgery Her new book, Surrender to the Surgeon Why your testimony may be your greatest platform How God can use your ordinary life for extraordinary purposes The takeaway: You don't have to have a traditional platform for God to use you. Sometimes the thing that looks the most foolish to everyone else is exactly where God wants to demonstrate His power. If God is calling you to something unexpected, don't be afraid to say yes. You never know what He might do with your obedience. Find more from Revelations Podcast hosted by Reagan Kramer: Website | Instagram | Apple Podcast | Youtube Find more on Molly Sanborn: Instagram: Instagram | Website | Book Cheeseballs for Jesus Become Part of Our Mission! Support The Revelations Podcast: Your support fuels our mission to share transformative messages of hope and faith. Click here to learn how you can contribute and be part of this growing community! This Episode is brought to you by Advanced Medicine Alternatives Get back to the active life you love through natural & regenerative musculoskeletal healing: https://www.georgekramermd.com/ Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: When God Uses the Unexpected03:50 – The Crazy Idea Behind “Cheese Balls for Jesus”05:20 – How Cheese Balls Became a Conversation Starter for Jesus06:50 – “Whatever You Do, Do It for the Glory of God”08:05 – Following God When You Don't Know Where It's Going19:55 – The Unexpected Beginning of the Ninja Warrior Journey21:20 – A Geocache, a Ninja Gym & a God-Ordained Opportunity22:40 – From Watching Her Kids to Competing Herself26:00 – When God Turns Your Passion Into a Platform31:00 – Faith Through the Valley38:00 – Open-Heart Surgery & Trusting God Through the Unknown44:00 – What God Does With Your Testimony51:55 – “Surrender to the Surgeon”: Molly's New Book53:40 – When God Is Writing a Story Bigger Than You Imagined55:00 – What's Next: A Book, a Screenplay & More Unexpected Doors59:15 – The Power of Your Testimony01:01:00 – Prayer & Blessing Over Molly

Have you ever looked around your business and wondered if you're spending money on things that feel "professional," but aren't actually helping you grow? It's easy to believe success comes from buying more. More gear. More props. More software. But what if the biggest breakthroughs come from spending less, and spending smarter? This week, Sarah shares the five things she refuses to waste money on after selling more than $3 million in portraits over 28 years. From props and paid ads to camera upgrades and online galleries, she breaks down what she stopped buying, why it made her more profitable, and where she chooses to invest instead. • Why buying more gear won't grow your business, but better business skills will • How avoiding "expense creep" can dramatically increase your profit over time • A simple framework to decide whether any new purchase is truly worth it If you've been wondering whether your next purchase will actually move your business forward, this episode might save you thousands of dollars and years of frustration. Press play before you spend another dime. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts

Chloe thought she'd be an educator and when we talked about first jobs with Carly Pearce, our lines went nuts with all kinds of wild stories. Plus, if you signed up, we have your name to call at 9a and if you hear it, call us and claim your GARTH BROOKS tickets

In this episode, farmer Mike Hedge of Hedge Family Farm talks about how being Certified Naturally Grown can serve as a great conversation starter at farmer's markets.   Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights!   Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower:  Instagram  Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network:  Carrot Cashflow  Farm Small Farm Smart  Farm Small Farm Smart Daily  The Growing Microgreens Podcast  The Urban Farmer Podcast  The Rookie Farmer Podcast  In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books:  Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon   Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

“We are now competing in conversation with someone's feed.”Connecting with others requires more than knowing what to say. The signals we send through our body language, the questions we ask, and even where we position ourselves can shape how others experience a conversation. In this Quick Thinks episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, behavioral researcher and author of Cues and Captivate, Vanessa Van Edwards joins Matt Abrahams to explore the subtle cues that make communication more engaging. She shares strategies for navigating networking events, sparking more meaningful conversations, and signaling the warmth and competence that shape charisma and connection.Takeaways:Connection starts before you speak. Visible palms, eye contact, positioning, and other nonverbal cues can signal warmth and openness, shaping how others experience an interaction from the start.Better conversations spark curiosity. Moving beyond routine small talk with engaging questions, surprising stories, and genuine enthusiasm can make interactions more memorable and meaningful.Activity:Create a conversational feed. Start a note on your phone and collect three things from your week—a surprising moment, an interesting observation, or a small win. Bring one into your next networking event or meeting as “conversational confetti” instead of defaulting to routine small talk.Printable Expanded Takeaways & ActivitiesEpisode Reference Links:Vanessa Van EdwardsVanessa's Books: Cues / CaptivateEp.301 Trust at First Sight: Create More Meaningful Connections Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedIn Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:37) - Why Your Hands Matter (02:20) - Networking With Confidence (05:34) - Make Small Talk More Engaging (09:03) - The Science of Charisma (13:11) - Conclusion ********Thank you to our sponsors.  These partnerships support the ongoing production of the podcast, allowing us to bring it to you at no cost.Strawberry.me. Get 50% off your first coaching session today at Strawberry.me/smartJoin our Think Fast Talk Smart Learning Community and become the communicator you want to be. 

An audit can be much more than an assessment, it can be the beginning of a great conversation. This episode explores how providing business owners with an audit creates something tangible to discuss, encourages collaboration, and helps uncover opportunities together. I did this last summer when I was transitioning, wanted momentum, and it went better than expected. Learn all about it here.

Episode 677 Get the mortgage market numbers that matter, what they mean for your business, and one practical action you can take that day to write more loans. Sign up free at BeyondTheRateSheet.com. Welcome to Loan Officer Freedom, the #1 podcast in the country for loan officers, hosted by Carl White. In this episode, Carl White shares a free resource he and Owen Lee originally created for the loan officers in Carl's branch called Beyond the Rate Sheet: The Loan Officer Daily. Every weekday morning, Owen pulls together the mortgage and housing numbers loan officers need to know, including mortgage rates, purchase and refinance applications, home sales, and other important market data. Carl then breaks down what those numbers actually mean for a producing loan officer and, more importantly, what to do with them. Each quick two-minute read includes The Pulse, a snapshot of what's happening in the market, Why It Matters, Carl's practical takeaway, Today's Conversation Starter, a word-for-word conversation you can use with agents, borrowers, or your database, and Today's Production Move, one specific action you can take to help create more business. Carl also explains why knowing the numbers is only useful when you can turn that information into conversations and activities that help you write more loans. The best part? It's completely free. To get Beyond the Rate Sheet delivered straight to your inbox every weekday morning, visit BeyondTheRateSheet.com.  

$1,000 a day from photography might sound like it requires more sessions, longer hours, and giving up your nights and weekends. But what if the path to more income is actually serving fewer clients? In this episode, Sarah Petty shares how she went from making about $10 per session to building a portrait business that averaged $1,000 a day across the year, while her client count went down. The shift wasn't becoming a better photographer. It was building a better system. Here's a sneak peek: How one $1,800 order replaced 24 of Sarah's old sessions Why guiding clients to the right artwork can change your income without adding more shoots The four-step boutique profit model that makes the client experience repeatable and predictable If you're tired of believing more income has to mean more clients and more hours away from the people you love, this episode will show you another way. Press play and discover what can change when your business starts working for your life. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts

You're marketing everywhere, but the bookings still aren't coming. The problem may not be how much you're marketing, but whether you're attracting the right people. In this episode of the Worth Every Penny Joycast, Sarah Petty breaks down the five marketing strategies boutique portrait photographers actually need, and why genuine relationships are the foundation for them all. • Why trust beats more social media posts • How partnerships and referrals put you in front of better-fit clients • Where to start when marketing feels overwhelming You don't need to do everything. You need the right strategy, done well. If you're tired of chasing inquiries that ghost you after hearing your prices, this episode will help you build marketing around connection, trust, and clients who value what you do. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

The Best Personal Trainer Client Acquisition Strategies for InstagramEpisode 441 | How Personal Trainers Get Your First 5 Clients on Instagram Without Going ViralYou have been told to post for 60 days, build know-like-and-trust, make a freebie, and then DM 20 to 50 strangers a day until someone books a call. That model builds you a second job, not a business. In this episode I break down the three client acquisition strategies my clients and I actually use to get paid every day, the Conversation Starter, the Low Ticket Lead System, and the Webinar Low Ticket Funnel. No spam DMs, no high-pressure sales calls, no pretending to be someone's best friend so they'll ask about your program. You'll also get the customer-versus-client distinction that changes how you build your list, why free lead magnets stopped converting, and the exact ROAS targets to hit before you scale ad spend.What You'll Discover:The difference between a customer and a client, and why building an email list of buyers beats a list of freebie downloadersWhy no funnel will save a vague offer, and how to define the leveraged components of your premium programHow the Conversation Starter turns your content into inbound DMs from the 3% of your audience who are already ready to buyWhy 100 buyers will out-produce 800 free leads, and how low ticket offers convert at 8 to 10% versus roughly 2%How to build a low ticket front-end offer that offsets your ad spend from day oneThe webinar low ticket funnel to run if lower customer volume or ad spend makes you nervousThe 90-day focus rule and the front-end and back-end ROAS numbers to hit before scalingTimestamps00:00 — Three client acquisition strategies without pushy sales or spam DMs00:44 — Who I am and why I teach this02:19 — Customer vs. client: the distinction that changes your whole list strategy03:11 — Why I build an email list of low ticket buyers03:57 — The traditional model: 60 days of value, a freebie, and 50 DMs a day05:13 — Why that model breaks coaches (12 to 18 hour days, unpaid)06:55 — Before any funnel: your premium offer has to be dialed in07:51 — The trap of turning your in-person job into an online job08:36 — Defining the leveraged components of your offer11:38 — Real offer structure examples: onboarding, async check-ins, phased reviews12:41 — Specific problem, specific outcome, specific person14:27 — Strategy 1: The Conversation Starter14:42 — Why we've been indoctrinated to think selling harms people15:38 — Free is never free: time, energy, effort16:27 — When people pay, they pay attention17:15 — Six to 14 touch points and seven hours of consumption17:51 — The free dog food analogy18:19 — Energy exchange and emotional investment20:27 — The 3% of your audience who are already buyers21:55 — Conversion content that produces DMs22:15 — The four buyer questions you have to answer23:16 — Gating your old PDF and why speed to connection matters24:14 — Using a customized enrollment call as your Conversation Starter25:16 — Moving DMs to a call, and revenue in three to 14 days26:45 — Combining organic with $2 to $5 test ads27:08 — Strategy 2: The Low Ticket Lead System28:00 — The 10-minute workout example and the ascension point28:47 — How low ticket buyers offset your ad spend immediately30:03 — Front-end offer ideas: recipes, mobility, low back pain stretches31:36 — 800 leads for a VSL vs. 100 buyers for the same 10 clients31:57 — 2% conversion vs. 8 to 10% conversion32:22 — Why posting 5 to 10 times a day burns you out33:11 — 14,000 views vs. 148 views on identical posts33:36 — Strategy 3: The Webinar Low Ticket Funnel34:20 — Putting a low ticket offer on your webinar thank you page34:53 — How to set up your traffic campaign and what to optimize for35:30 — Pick two funnels and run them for 90 days35:41 — Front-end 1-2 ROAS, back-end 4-8 ROAS, unlimited ad budget36:02 — Tracking the metrics that actually matter37:43 — Join me live for Simple ScalingResources MentionedSimple Scaling (free live training) — How I turn $9 into consistent 50K months: https://ptprofitformula.com/simplescalingPT Profit Formula — https://ptprofitformula.comThe Offer Lab — the section of my client portal where coaches position their premium offer and build their Conversation StarterThe Implementation Hub — where the offer components, delivery structure, and metrics tracking liveTelegram — used for async client check-ins in a one-to-many way: https://telegram.orgReady for the Next Step?If you want the full system, offer positioning, the three funnels, and the metrics tracking that ties them together, the PT Profit Accelerator is where we build it with you. Start at ptprofitformula.com.Resources & Links MentionedWant more client leads on Instagram™?  Grab lifetime access to 90- Days Done for You that Converts: https://ptprofitformula.com/content

(Note: This episode originally ran on March 3rd, 2026.) From explosive meltdowns and slammed doors to tears that seem to come out of nowhere, some kids simply feel everything more intensely. Joining host Elise Hu to unpack what parenting a deeply feeling kid or teen might look like is Dr. Becky Kennedy, clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and host of the Good Inside podcast. She and Elise dive into Dr. Becky's new children's book Leave Me Alone, and what deeply feeling kids might really mean when they say “leave me alone.” Dr. Becky addresses what parents commonly see from deeply feeling kids in homes, and shares practical tips for better equipping our kids to handle life's surprises, and what to do when emotions are big for all parties involved — parents and kids alike.  Key Takeaways: Deeply feeling kids are more porous to the world around them. Learn independently, with, and from your kids on your parenting journey. Welcome challenging, empowering, and important conversations with the kids in your life. Stay calm and reframe yourself as a pilot and your child as turbulence during hard situations. Spend a little extra time setting expectations to help reduce avoidable surprises. ⏱️ Timestamps: Keep the conversation going at home with our FREE Conversation Kit companion guide: https://delivery.shopifyapps.com/-/115e41db3fb4d832/fa72f536141f92ce Learn more from Dr. Becky Kennedy: https://www.instagram.com/drbeckyatgoodinside New episodes every Tuesday: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AKidsCo Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-us-a-parenting-podcast/id1552286967 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2bIRVxM8hbriNxydkSv6VG Or wherever you get your podcasts.

Do you ever catch yourself thinking, "If I just had better gear, then I could finally charge what I'm worth?" It's one of the biggest lies photographers believe, and it's keeping too many talented artists stuck. The truth is, your camera isn't what's holding your business back. In this week's Worth Every Penny Joycast, Sarah Petty shares what she discovered after surveying six figure photographers in her community. The results might surprise you. Many built thriving, profitable businesses with older cameras, used lenses, and simple lighting. What set them apart wasn't expensive equipment, it was a business model built around serving clients and selling finished artwork, not digital files. Here's what you'll learn: • Why photographers are hitting six figures with surprisingly affordable gear • How a boutique business model helps you stop competing on price and start selling an unforgettable experience • Where your money should actually go if you want to build a more profitable photography business If you've been waiting to feel "ready" before raising your prices or growing your business, this episode is the mindset shift you've been needing. Press play and discover why your next breakthrough has far less to do with what's in your camera bag than you think. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Dr. Tom Curran continues to answer questions about his life, as examples of meaningful conversation-starter questions for kids to ask their parents. Tom asks himself: What did the winter season require of a kid in your town? Who taught you how to drive, what car and how did that go? Which adult (not related to you) had the most influence on you growing up? What was the worst trouble you got into before the age of 12? And more!

Dr. Tom Curran asks himself questions to start meaningful conversations with his kids, such as: What did your childhood summers look like? What were symbols of prestige in childhood that today seems ridiculous? When did you first meet your spouse and what was your first inaccurate impression of them? What did you think was one of your charming personality traits until marriage reclassified it as a “maintenance issue?” What surprised you most when you became a father for the first time? And more!

What if getting laid off wasn't the end of your story, but the beginning of building a business no one could take away? If you've ever wondered whether you're truly "good enough" to charge premium prices, Nicole McMann's journey will remind you that confidence isn't something you're born with, it's something you build. This week on the Joycast, Baltimore photographer Nicole McMann shares how losing her nonprofit job pushed her to finally pursue the photography business she'd been putting off for years. Starting without paying clients or a portfolio, she trusted the process, landed her first family session, and walked away from her ordering appointment with a $9,568 sale and a whole new belief in herself. ● How trusting a proven process helped her overcome fear and charge premium prices with confidence ● The mindset shift that turned self-doubt into a $9,500 family portrait sale ● Why building skills no one can take away creates freedom far beyond photography If you've been waiting until you feel "ready," this conversation is the reminder you need. Your next chapter doesn't start when everything is perfect. It starts the moment you decide to believe that your work, and your future, are worth investing in. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Need help starting conversations in your group text? Well Parade magazine can help and Hunter and Cush are not having any of it!

What if AI isn't the biggest threat to your photography business? What if the real risk is building a business around something clients can replace? As AI reshapes the industry, this episode will challenge what you think people are actually paying for and reveal why some photographers will struggle while others become more valuable than ever. In this episode, Sarah breaks down the two photography business models that are heading in very different directions. She shares why selling an experience, guiding clients, and creating heirloom artwork isn't just a premium service, it's the one thing AI can't replicate. If you've been wondering how to future-proof your business, this conversation couldn't come at a better time. • Why photographers who sell transactions are most vulnerable to AI, and what clients truly value instead • The mindset shift from selling digital files to creating meaningful experiences and lasting heirlooms • A simple five-step client process that builds trust, increases sales, and makes your business irreplaceable If you've been feeling uncertain about where photography is headed, this episode will give you clarity and confidence. The future doesn't belong to the photographers with the best gear. It belongs to the ones who create moments, memories, and relationships that technology can never replace. Press play and discover how to become one of them.RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

You don't need more gear, more followers, or another random marketing hack. What you need is a business built on the right foundation. If you're just getting started, or wondering why photography still feels harder than it should, this episode could save you years of frustration. This week, Sarah shares the five biggest mistakes she'd avoid if she were starting her photography business from scratch in 2026. After building a multi million dollar portrait business over nearly three decades, she's revealing the lessons she wishes she'd known from day one, and the simple shifts that lead to more profit, more confidence, and more time for the life you actually want. • Why choosing the right business model from the beginning changes everything, including how much time you spend working • The pricing mindset that helps you build a profitable business from day one, instead of trying to "earn the right" to charge more later • Why real relationships, printed artwork, and clear communication will always outperform chasing followers and selling digital files If you've been second guessing your path or feeling overwhelmed by all the conflicting advice online, this episode will bring clarity. Press play and start building a photography business that supports your life, instead of taking it over.RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

This week I speak with Sue Moore Donaldson, who speaks to connect women to the welcoming heart of God and to each other. Sue's invitation to a deeper life with God is combined with the biblical challenge to be a woman who welcomes, as she challenges us to invite others into our lives and homes (for heaven's sake!) A popular retreat and conference speaker, Sue shares from her own vulnerability—“a work in progress or a piece of work – depending on the day,” as she likes to say- and audiences connect to her authentic approach to God's Word spoken with grace and humor. Sue is a podcaster and author as well. We look at her childhood up to the present to find the beautiful thread of Jesus in her life. You won't want to miss this encouraging episode!Link to book: Never Alone: Stories of Invitation and Connectionhttps://welcomeheart.com/never-alone30 Conversation Starters for Meaningful Gatherings:https://welcomeheart.myflodesk.com/v6wwjwq7hpSue's Favorite Relaxing Recipes:https://view.flodesk.com/pages/60db7ed16b275532b755c224*Theme Music "Blessed Time" by Ketsa

You know you're talented. But if you've spent years undercharging, second guessing yourself, or letting life convince you your dreams have to wait, you're not alone. Sometimes the hardest part isn't learning new skills. It's believing your work is finally worth it. This week, Sarah sits down with Clarksville, Tennessee photographer Faith Doggett, whose thriving documentary photography business disappeared almost overnight in 2020. After years away from photography, Faith shares how she rebuilt her confidence, embraced a proven system, and landed a $3,487 portrait sale that changed how she sees herself and her business forever. • How to stop letting fear dictate your pricing and finally charge with confidence • Why having a simple, repeatable system creates freedom instead of overwhelm • The mindset shift that helped Faith rebuild her business, one confident step at a time If you've been waiting for permission to believe bigger things are possible for your photography business, this conversation might be exactly what you need to hear. Press play, your next chapter could start today. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

"People aren't inside of our heads, so you have to give them that emotional information as well as the factual information."Humor is more than entertainment—it's a powerful way to create connection. As a comedian, writer, and former teacher, Chris Duffy has learned that laughter, curiosity, and emotion can transform even ordinary conversations into memorable experiences. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Duffy joins Matt Abrahams to explore how humor can strengthen communication, build deeper connections, and make ideas more memorable. Together, they discuss how to engage an audience, bring authenticity to repeated messages, and create conversations that invite others to participate rather than simply listen.Key Takeaways:Connection comes before comedy. Humor is most effective when it invites others into the conversation, rather than putting the spotlight on yourself.Emotion makes ideas memorable. Combining facts with curiosity, emotion, and storytelling helps audiences understand, remember, and engage with your message.Activity:Create a conversational doorknob. In your next conversation, replace one routine response with an observation, opinion, or question that invites discussion. Notice how offering a "doorknob" changes the depth and energy of the conversation.Episode Reference Links:Chris DuffyChris's Book: Humor MeEp.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your … Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:03) - Lessons from the Classroom (01:52) - Curiosity Captures Attention (04:48) - Facts Need Emotion (05:49) - Sounding Authentic (09:29) - Calming Performance Nerves (11:01) - Jamming vs. Joking (14:36) - Becoming Funnier (19:01) - Better Conversations (22:53) - The Final Three Questions (26:48) - Conclusion

Ever feel like you're working harder than ever, yet still being mistaken for "just another photographer"? The difference between an amateur and a boutique photographer isn't talent, gear, or experience. It's the way they think, serve, and run their business. In this week's Joycast, Sarah Petty breaks down the 8 habits that separate thriving boutique photographers from everyone else. These simple shifts can completely change how clients see you, what they're willing to invest, and how much joy you find in your business. • Why saying "no" to the wrong inquiries creates space for your best clients • The overlooked conversations that turn price shoppers into lifelong fans • How small details, from consultations to packaging, dramatically increase perceived value If you've been wondering what professional photographers do differently, this episode gives you a clear roadmap. Pick one idea, implement it this week, and start building the business you've been working toward. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Some of the most important conversations in life are the ones we keep putting off.Whether it's with a spouse, a parent, a sibling, a friend, or someone at work, avoiding difficult conversations often feels safer than having them. But what if those conversations are actually the foundation of the legacy you're building?In Episode 201 of the Decide Your Legacy podcast, Adam Gragg explores why we naturally avoid hard conversations, what psychology teaches us about those fears, and how greater clarity leads to greater confidence. Through personal stories, practical coaching insights, and real life examples, you'll discover simple ways to start meaningful conversations that strengthen relationships instead of damaging them.In this episode you'll learn:• Why most difficult conversations are less painful than we imagine• The two biggest fears that keep us silent• Why peace doesn't always mean the absence of conflict• How clarity creates confidence before a hard conversation• Three simple ways to start meaningful conversations with anyone• How AI can help you prepare for important conversations without replacing them• Practical tools to help you build deeper relationships and a lasting legacy22 Conversations Starters (post) by Adam GraggLegacy isn't something you leave behind someday. It's something you build every day through honest conversations with the people who matter most.If this episode encouraged you, be sure to subscribe for more conversations on courage, leadership, personal growth, and intentional living.

Ever feel like you're working harder than ever in your photography business, yet still wondering why the numbers don't add up? If business planning feels overwhelming, this episode might completely change the way you think about growth, profit, and freedom. In this solo episode, Sarah Petty breaks down the simple one-page business plan she's used for decades. Instead of complicated spreadsheets and endless projections, she shares the three numbers that can help you build a profitable photography business around the life you actually want to live. • The one metric that impacts your income, workload, and long-term freedom more than anything else • How to reverse-engineer your income goals into a realistic number of ideal clients • Why clarity around your numbers makes every marketing and pricing decision easier If you've been craving a simpler path forward, this conversation is a reminder that success doesn't have to be complicated. Press play and discover how a single page can bring more focus, confidence, and profit to your photography business. ✨ RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Ever feel like you've worked hard for years, yet still can't figure out why some clients say yes and others disappear? That tension between knowing your craft and building a profitable business can be exhausting. This conversation will feel deeply familiar. This week, Sarah sits down with Ginger, a photographer with 20+ years behind the camera, who was on the verge of walking away from the business she loved. After years of guessing, second-guessing, and feeling alone, she discovered what changed everything: a clear system, confidence in her pricing, and a better way to serve clients. • Why more experience doesn't always equal more profit, and what finally unlocked consistent sales • The mindset shift that helped Ginger confidently present premium artwork without fear • How serving clients more deeply led to bigger orders, stronger relationships, and renewed joy If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to make a change, or felt stuck despite your talent, Ginger's story is the reminder you need. Press play and discover what's possible when you stop guessing and start trusting a proven path. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

If you've been treating photography like a side hustle because you're not sure you're "good enough" yet, this episode is for you. The biggest thing standing between you and real income might not be your talent. It might be the stories you keep telling yourself. In this solo episode, Sarah shares the five mindset shifts that completely changed her photography business. From letting go of comparison to trusting yourself before you feel ready, this conversation is a reminder that growth starts long before perfect confidence arrives. • Why your clients care more about the experience you create than technical perfection • How comparison keeps photographers stuck in someone else's version of success • The powerful difference between making hobby decisions and business decisions If you've been waiting for permission, more experience, or the "right time" to take your business seriously, consider this your sign. Press play and dis RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Ever feel like your calendar is packed in the fall, then painfully quiet by January? That feast-or-famine cycle can leave even talented photographers questioning what comes next. In this episode, Sarah Petty unpacks why discounts, mini sessions, and desperate "now booking" posts often make slow seasons worse. Instead, she shares how profitable photographers create demand year-round by building strategic partnerships and meaningful campaigns that clients actually want to be part of. You'll hear: • Why discounting trains clients to wait and quietly devalues your work • How partnerships with local businesses and charities can create consistent bookings • The secret to building urgency without relying on sales or mini sessions If you're tired of wondering where your next client is coming from, this conversation offers a smarter, more sustainable path forward. Press play and start building a business that feels steady in every season. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

If you're posting every day, announcing availability, and still hearing crickets, this episode might explain why. The truth is, most photographers treat social media like a billboard when what their clients really want is a relationship. If you're tired of chasing likes that never turn into bookings, this conversation will change how you show up online. In this episode, Sarah Petty breaks down why "now booking" posts often push premium clients away and shares the mindset shift that helps photographers attract the right people without feeling salesy. You'll learn how to use social media as a connection tool, stay top of mind during life's milestone moments, and create content that builds trust instead of desperation. • Why premium buyers respond to relationships, not repeated sales posts • Sarah's simple HYPE framework for creating content that connects and converts • How listening to your audience can lead to bookings faster than chasing engagement metrics If social media feels exhausting, confusing, or like a never-ending hamster wheel, you're not alone. This episode offers a refreshing reminder that the goal isn't to go viral. It's to build genuine relationships that lead to meaningful, profitable work. Press play and discover a smarter way to show up online. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Today's podcast guest is the Queen of Conversation Starters, Lex Niko! We chat about Lex working the blue carpet at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards this weekend, break down the latest Summer House news, and spend a full 30 minutes deep-diving into RHORI. Lex is simply the best. Come judge with us!You can find Lex:Instagram & Threads: @lexniko & @conversationstartersTikTok: @conversationstartersYou can find us:Linktree: Two Judgey GirlsPodcast: ACast, iTunes, Spotify, wherever you listen!Instagram & Threads: @twojudgeygirlsTikTok: @twojudgeygirls // @marytwojudgeygirls // @courtneytjgYouTube: @twojudgeygirlsFacebook: www.facebook.com/twojudgeygirlsMerch: www.etsy.com/shop/twojudgeygirlsPatreon: www.patreon.com/twojudgeygirls LTK: @marytwojudgeygirls // @courtneytjg Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dennis Benigno started in 2001 as a New Jersey corrections officer at nineteen. He moved to the U.S. Park Police in D.C., then to patrol in one of Jersey's largest municipalities. Over fourteen years he made more than 1,500 arrests and ran over 10,000 car stops. He had to self-train to survive the road. When he realized the academies weren't teaching cops what they needed, he started teaching it himself. That became Street Cop Training, one of the biggest police training companies in the country, with hundreds of thousands of officers behind it. He argues that 80% of line-of-duty deaths are training failures. Not bad luck. Failures you can trace back to the academy. We get into why the system box-checks instead of fixing the problem, and who benefits from keeping it that way. He breaks down the passenger-side approach, the traffic stop that ended with a cop executed on camera, and the constitutional gaps most officers never get taught. We also get into the political machine that came after him, what it cost, and who actually showed up when it did.  Street Cop Training:  https://streetcoptraining.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorcJeLaNQvrs9WJ1mgjCfFiYR0JPzLxm8nm6On3DGf8qO0mnWof Drownproof book and Conversation Starters: https://www.shop.clearedhotpodcast.com   

Most photographers think talent is the thing that builds a profitable business. But what if the photographers winning awards are also the ones quietly burning out, overworking, and barely making money? This episode is the wake-up call so many portrait photographers need. Sarah Petty breaks down the six business skills photographers often avoid, even though they're the exact skills that create freedom, profit, and a family-first life. From cash flow and outsourcing to planning, branding, and building genuine client relationships, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what actually moves a business forward. • Why "busy" doesn't always mean profitable, and the numbers every photographer needs to understand • The mindset shift that helps photographers stop drowning in busywork and start buying back their time • How genuine human connection leads to better clients, stronger referrals, and more meaningful work If you've been feeling stretched thin, reacting instead of leading, or wondering why your business still feels harder than it should, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Press play, you might realize the missing piece isn't your photography at all. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

What keeps us from being more social? Nick Epley calls it a “mind-reading mistake.”We all think about what others think, particularly what they think about us. The problem, says Nick Epley, is that we're almost always wrong.Epley is a professor of behavioral science at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and author of A Little More Social: How Small Choices Create Unexpected Happiness, Health, and Connection. What keeps people from engaging authentically, connecting deeply, and enjoying a meaningful social life? It comes down to an error of social cognition, “A mind-reading mistake,” Epley says. “If I don't think you want to talk to me, I won't try. And I'll never find out that I'm wrong about that.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Epley and host Matt Abrahams explore why we hold ourselves back from meaningful conversation, and what happens when we don't. From taking an interest in others to sharing more freely about ourselves, Epley shares strategies for being a little more social — and making your life considerably better as a result.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Nick EpleyNick's Book: A Little More SocialEp.133 From Good to Super: How Supercommunicators Unlock the Language of Connection Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (01:31) - Problems with Body Language (04:15) - Perspective Getting (07:14) - Asking Better Questions (08:41) - Moving Beyond Small Talk (10:13) - Why We Hold Back (11:33) - Advice For Introverts (15:17) - A Little More Social (18:34) - The Final Three Questions (24:45) - Conclusion

What if the thing you've been overlooking is actually the thing that could change everything? In a world obsessed with fast bookings and digital files, it's easy to believe you need more clients, more hustle, and more content to succeed. But the photographers building sustainable, profitable businesses are often doing something much quieter, and far more meaningful. In this week's Joycast, Sarah Petty breaks down the "boring" business model that helped her go from overwhelmed mom of three to one of America's most profitable photographers. This episode is a powerful reminder that success doesn't come from chasing trends. It comes from serving people deeply and creating artwork that actually matters in their lives. Here's a peek at what you'll walk away with: • Why selling wall portraits creates more freedom, profit, and connection than chasing high-volume sessions • The mindset shift that helps beginner photographers confidently charge more, even without a perfect portfolio • How simple systems, not talent alone, are what truly create thrilled clients and repeat referrals If you've been feeling exhausted trying to "keep up" with the photography industry, this episode might feel like permission to build your business differently. Slower. Simpler. More intentionally. Press play and rediscover what people are really investing in when they hire you. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

Most photographers aren't struggling because they lack talent. They're struggling because they built a business that demands everything from them and gives very little back. If you've ever felt exhausted chasing sessions, undercharging to stay booked, or wondering if this industry can actually support your life, this episode will hit home. In this week's Joycast, Sarah Petty breaks down the real difference between a $400 portrait photographer and a $4,000 portrait photographer. Spoiler alert, it has nothing to do with your camera or your market. It's about the client experience, the relationships you build, and the business model you choose. Sarah shares the mindset shifts and practical changes that help photographers stop competing on price and start creating profitable, sustainable businesses. Here's a sneak peek: ● Why sales actually begin in the very first client conversation  ● The surprising reason clients invest more when they're more involved  ● How intentional planning creates bigger orders with less overwhelm If you're tired of hustling for small orders and craving a business that gives you more freedom, more confidence, and deeper client connections, this episode will show you what's possible. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

You're working nonstop, booking sessions, delivering galleries… and still feeling stuck. Like no matter how hard you push, the income just won't follow. What if the problem isn't you, but the model you've been taught to follow? In this episode, Sarah Petty pulls back the curtain on the exact 4-step process she used to build a six-figure portrait business, without burning out or missing life at home. It's a shift in thinking, pricing, and how you serve. • Why low-priced digital sessions quietly cap your growth • The mindset shift from selling photos to creating experiences • How fewer clients can actually mean more income and freedom If you've been hustling harder with little return, this might be the reframe you've been needing. Press play, your next level could be simpler than you think. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756

You're working nonstop, tweaking, learning, upgrading… and still not seeing the money reflect the effort. It's frustrating, confusing, and honestly a little defeating. What if the real problem isn't your talent, but the beliefs quietly running your business? In this episode, Sarah Petty pulls back the curtain on seven industry "truths" that are actually keeping photographers stuck. From her own journey out of overwhelm to building a wildly profitable business, she shares what actually creates momentum, and why this matters more than ever right now. • The hidden "busy work" that feels productive but keeps you broke • Why selling from your own wallet is silently capping your income • The mindset shift that turns doubt into forward motion If something feels off in your business but you can't name it, this is the clarity you've been craving. Press play, you might finally see what's been holding you back. RESOURCES:  Photography Business Tools to Get Started 37 CLIENTS WHO CAN HIRE YOU TODAY https://info.photographybusinessinstitute.com/37-clients-optin   INSTAGRAM – DM me "Conversation Starters" for some genuine ways to strike up a conversation about your photography business wherever you are. https://www.instagram.com/sarah.petty   FREE COPY: NEW YORK TIMES BEST SELLING BOOK FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/freebook    BOUTIQUE BREAKTHROUGH – 8-WEEK WORKSHOP www.photographybusinessinstitute.com/boutiquebreakthrough   FREE FACEBOOK GROUP: Join and get my free mini-class: How I earned $1,500 per client working 16 hours a week by becoming a boutique photographer. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ditchthedigitals    YOUTUBE: Check out my latest how to videos:  https://www.youtube.com/photographybusinessinstitute   LOVE THE SHOW? Subscribe & Review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/worth-every-penny-joycast/id1513676756