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Ever wish your client workflow could run a little more smoothly — without you spending hours managing inquiries? In this behind-the-scenes episode, I'm sharing the exact automation that saves me hours every week as a Nashville family photographer.You'll get a step-by-step look at how I connect Dubsado, Zapier, and Trello to automatically organize new client leads — so nothing falls through the cracks and every client gets the same consistent experience.Whether you're a visual learner who loves Trello or a systems-curious creative ready to automate more of your business, this quick tutorial will walk you through the full process (and yes — I'm holding your hand the whole way through!) Want the FULL blog post of this podcast? Click HEREResources & Links Mentioned In This Episode▸ Watch the YouTube video version of this Podcast (so you can get a full visual of how I break everything down): https://youtu.be/iRSX8mf8HCA▸ Dubsado (30% off affiliate link):http://dubsado.com/?c=dollydelongeducation▸ Showit (affiliate link):https://showit.com/r/40ggld0m▸ The Contact Form That Wows Training (Free!):https://systemsandworkflowmagic.com/create-a-contact-page-that-wows▸ The Ultimate Family Photographer's Workflow (Coming Soon) (or you can check out my shop here)Connect with Dolly DeLong Education
She's back! Dawn Christian rejoins Sarah on the mic for a much-needed reunion. After pivoting from coaching to hands-on Online Business Management (OBM) for a real-life mobile bar owner, Dawn has been experiencing the behind-the-scenes mobile bar world and has uncovered the number one thing holding entrepreneurs back: an addiction to chaos.In this powerhouse episode, Sarah and Dawn get real about the subconscious "addiction to stress" that keeps business owners in a state of fight-or-flight, making them feel needed but ultimately preventing them from scaling. They dismantle the myth that "you can't find good help" and explore the critical difference between management and true leadership—and why your team's success (or failure) rests on you.This conversation is a must-listen for any entrepreneur who feels "crazy busy" but stuck, or any visionary who knows they need an implementer.In this episode, you'll hear:Why entrepreneurs subconsciously create chaos to feel valuable (and how to break the cycle).The taboo truth: Is it okay to like your work more than your family?The hard lesson: If you think "nobody wants to work," the problem is your leadership.A deep dive into CRMs: Why HoneyBook will hold you back and why Dubsado is built for scale (even if it makes you "cry" to set up).How to use your "business winter" (slow season) to finally build the systems you've been avoiding.Sarah's candid story of recovering from her own "addiction to busyness" and regulating her nervous system.The life-changing magic of "chunking" your tasks to reclaim your time and focus.Resources & Links:Need an implementer to build your systems? Connect with Dawn:Book a call: https://calendly.com/dawnlchristian/discovery-callGet the systems and support you need in the Mobile Bar Academy.Book Mentioned: Leadership BS: Fixing Workplaces and Careers One Truth at a Time by Jeffrey Pfeffer.Great leadership comes down to only two rules | Peter Anderton | TEDxDerbySeth Godin – Leadership vs. Management - What it means to make a differenceLearn more about Dubsado and HoneyBook.Questions, ideas, or want to sponsor the event? Email Sarah directly at hello@mobilebevpros.com—she'd love to hear from you! JOIN THE MOBILE BAR ACADEMYhttps://www.mobilebevpros.com/mobile-bar-academyWORK WITH SARAHhttps://www.mobilebevpros.com/accelerator-business-coachingJOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUPhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/mbpgroupCONNECT ON INSTAGRAMhttps://www.instagram.com/mobilebevpros
Q4 strategy doesn't have to mean endless discounts. It's time to think bigger. In this episode, Emma reveals how product-based business owners can dominate the final quarter of the year without slashing prices or relying on flash sales. From building VIP access campaigns that spark excitement, to creating story-driven bundles that connect emotionally with your audience, you'll discover how to turn your holiday marketing into a powerful brand-building season. Emma also shares how to use user-generated content, experiential pop-ups, and cross-brand collaborations to create memorable customer experiences that drive real revenue, not just quick conversions. If you're ready to finish 2025 strong and step confidently into 2026 with a thriving, loyal community behind your brand, this is the episode you can't afford to miss. Listen in as Emma explains: How to reframe discounts into exclusive access that drives urgency and loyalty The secret to designing story-driven holiday bundles that actually sell Why UGC and community storytelling outperform traditional Q4 ad strategies And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Thinking about ditching your CRM after the latest price increase? Before you rage-cancel Dubsado, HoneyBook, or whatever tool's testing your patience, listen to this episode. In this episode, I'm breaking down what your CRM actually does behind the scenes, why Google Workspace isn't a true replacement, and how to decide if your CRM just needs a tune-up instead of a total breakup.If you're ready to get your money's worth from the CRM you already have, check out Systems in Session — my 60-day sprint to streamline your backend and build a client experience that runs like clockwork. There are 2 spots left for Q1 to lock in a 2025 price.Want personalized feedback on your current client experience instead? Book a Client Experience Audit.
When most business owners hear the word tech, they instantly want to hide under their desk.Because for so many, tech = stress. Funnels, automations, integrations, CRMs… it all sounds like another language.And instead of helping you sell more, it usually feels like it's stopping you from doing the things that actually make you money.But what if your systems weren't something you were scared of – what if they were the secret to scaling with ease?Because when your tech and systems work seamlessly in the background, it's not just about saving time – it's about building trust, creating consistency, and making it easier for people to buy from you.And today's guest on the How I Do Content Podcast knows exactly how to make that happen.Sophie Carr is a Tech Integrator who helps coaches and online business owners simplify their systems, launch faster, and scale smarter.She specialises in course platforms and funnels – cutting through the tech overwhelm so her clients can focus on what they do best.In today's episode, Sophie's sharing what every business owner needs to know about creating seamless systems that support more sales – from choosing the right tools to avoiding common tech traps, and how to make your backend just as magical as your marketing.Plus, she shares about her experience inside Micro Messaging so far – and how shifting her messaging helped her go from feeling invisible online to creating content that finally connects and converts.So if your tech's been giving you major “ugh” energy lately – this is definitely the episode is for you. CONNECT WITH SOPHIE CARRFollow Sophie on Instagram @sophiecarr.coGrab Sophie's Recommended Tech Tools Guide https://sophiecarr.com/toolsoptin Find out more about at https://sophiecarr.com/ SIGN UP FOR MICRO MESSAGINGMicro Messaging helped Sophie refine her content, show up with more confidence, and make people finally get the magic of what she does.And that's exactly what we would do together over the next 6-months. Because when your messaging actually reflects the magic of what you do, everything else in your business (your content, your systems, your offers) clicks into place and starts working with you, not against you.So if you want to join Sophie and the other magical wizards inside Micro Messaging for the next 6-months this is the time to do it. Find out more and sign up at https://thesocialbolt.com.au/micro-messaging/ TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODEbusiness systems setup, seamless client experience, backend systems for coaches, automation tools for small business, tech stack for online business, Kajabi vs MailerLite, Dubsado alternatives, Notion for business management, Tally Forms setup, Zapier automations, workflow automation for service providers, choosing the right tech tools, avoid shiny object syndrome, how to audit your tech stack, save time with automations, email marketing platforms for service providers, lead nurture sequence setup, client onboarding systems, how to improve client experience, streamline business operations, online business systems, backend setup for launches, how to scale with systems, systemising your business, tech for solopreneurs,Background Music is Copyright Free. You're free to use this music in your videos.Track: Harry Potter Theme SongMusic promoted by Chayatori RecordsVideo Link: https://youtu.be/WY8-lVlLhWE
Instagram just unveiled two features that could completely change how you engage with your content and your audience. On this episode, Emma unpacks the biggest social media shifts of October 2025, starting with Instagram's deceptively small pinned comments update, which has the potential to transform audience engagement and even drive conversions. She also breaks down Meta's push into AI-powered holiday ads, sharing why these tools can help streamline campaigns but still require a human touch to get the best results. Over on LinkedIn, fresh data reveals that posting frequency now plays a bigger role in reach than perfectly polished content – a shift that makes consistent visibility more achievable. And for the headline update? Instagram is testing a new Reels feature that could dramatically increase watch time and keep your brand front and center even when users multitask. As always, our monthly breakdown is here to help you turn these interesting advancements into powerful, actionable changes you can implement to stay ahead of the curve. Listen in as Emma explains: Creative ways to use pinned comments for context, engagement, and conversions Why you shouldn't stop running Meta ads on December 31st How LinkedIn frequency is now a bigger factor than post “perfection” And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Are family photographers ready to simplify and automate the backend of their business? In this episode, I'm breaking down the very first step in your client experience: your contact form. Instead of relying on the standard form that comes with your website template, I'll show you how to replace it with a Dubsado lead capture form so that new inquiries automatically flow into your CRM—saving you time and eliminating the risk of losing leads.Whether you're on Showit, Squarespace, or another platform, this tip will help you create a smoother, more professional client journey from the very first touchpoint.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why replacing your default website contact form with a Dubsado lead capture form is a game-changerThe exact steps to embed your CRM form into your website (using Showit as the example)Which fields to include (and which ones to skip!) for a streamlined inquiry processHow this one small change can automate your lead management and prevent missed emailsA free training resource to help you build a “Contact Page That Wows”Read the entire blog post here Resources & Links Mentioned In This Episode▸ Watch the YouTube video version of this training (with visuals!) → YouTube Channel▸ Get 30% OFF of Dubsado Here: https://systemsandworkflowmagic.com/dubsado-coupon-code▸ Want the free training mentioned? Create a Contact Form that WOWS: https://systemsandworkflowmagic.com/create-a-contact-page-that-wows▸ Showit (get 1 month free with my link): https://showit.com/r/40ggld0mConnect with Dolly DeLong Education
Most people don't realize it, but the true voice of your brand on social media often isn't you—it's your Community Coordinator. In this episode of Stop Scrolling, Start Scaling, host Emma Tessler sits down with three powerhouse women from the Ninety Five Media team—Annie, Valeria, and Laylah—to reveal the hidden role of community management and why it's the secret weapon for scaling online. These behind-the-scenes experts are the ones building relationships in the DMs, sparking conversations in comments, and turning cold leads into warm, loyal fans. Together, they share what community management really looks like day-to-day, the biggest misconceptions brands have about it, and how these subtle but powerful interactions drive results. If you've ever wondered how engagement translates into sales, or why community building is non-negotiable for brands today, this conversation will change how you think about social media forever. Listen in as Emma speaks to Annie, Valeria and Laylah about: Why community management is the secret growth driver most brands overlook Ways community insights can directly shape content strategy and brand decisions The biggest misconceptions founders have about social media community work And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to run a business while raising little ones at home. At the time of recording, I had two young kids by my side (and was deep into preparing for baby #3!), so I know firsthand the challenges of balancing work and motherhood.I'll share what this season looks like for me right now, the mindset shifts that have made all the difference, and a few of the PRACTICAL ways I've structured my business so I can be present with my kids without letting everything else fall apart.If you've ever felt torn between growing your business and soaking up these years with your kids, this conversation is for you. My hope is that you'll walk away encouraged and with fresh ideas for making both possible in a way that truly fits your life.Links Mentioned:Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/317 Shop our Showit Website Templates: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop Join me inside Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod Sign up for the Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psb Want the insider scoop? Join my Free Facebook community: https://elizabethmccravy.com/facebook Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabethmccravy As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!) Need some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop Over my 9 years of business, I have learned some financial skills the hard way and a few years ago, I developed an an 8 step process I go through at the end of each month. This process helps me know how my business is doing financially, pay myself well and allocate money for things like taxes and expenses. And, it's yours for FREE at https://elizabethmccravy.com/profit
We're talking about one of the most important aspects of your website: how to actually collect payments. A great website won't help you unless customers can easily pay you. Whether your business is consultation-based or direct purchase, this episode covers the tools and steps you need to make the payment process smooth and efficient. YOU WILL LEARN:The difference between consultation-based payments and direct purchase payments. Recommended tools for managing payments, including CRMs like HoneyBook, Dubsado, and more. Top payment processors and systems for selling products, courses, or services. Common mistakes to avoid when integrating payments into your website. Why clear pricing and mobile-friendly design are non-negotiable.
Are you stuck at a revenue plateau in your interior design business and wondering why you can't seem to scale beyond $300K, $500K, or even $750K? In this power-packed episode, Melissa walks you through the most common roadblocks that keep designers from hitting that elusive seven-figure milestone. Whether you're doing it all yourself, undercharging for your services, or micromanaging your team, she uncovers the exact shifts you need to make to break through each revenue barrier. You'll discover how to hire effectively, charge profitably, and lead powerfully. Melissa also shares practical tools, action steps, and mindset upgrades that you can start using immediately to shift out of hustle and into high-level strategy. This episode is your ultimate roadmap to creating a sustainable, scalable design business that doesn't depend on your every move. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:11) Why $300K is the DIY ceiling—and how hiring, even an intern, can get you unstuck (06:23) The hidden value of outsourcing your bookkeeping and financial tracking (14:33) The half-million dollar hesitation—how undercharging is capping your growth (16:58) How flat fees and procurement management fees can transform your profitability (20:34) Why leadership, not labor, is your key to moving from $750K to $1M+ (22:27) The mindset shift required to operate as a CEO, not just a designer SUPPORTING RESOURCES: MelissaGalt.com Dubsado: https://www.dubsado.com Motion: https://www.usemotion.com ClickUp: https://www.clickup.com Studio Designer: https://www.studiodesigner.com Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com HousePro: https://www.houzz.com/pro When you're ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.
Are you actually using the real words your clients are typing into Google when they're searching for a photographer like you? In today's episode, I'm showing you a simple tweak you can make to your contact form that helps you discover the exact keywords your clients are already using to find you.This small backend shift in your CRM (like Dubsado or HoneyBook) can completely transform how you approach blogging, YouTube, and podcasting—because you'll finally have client-driven keywords to use in your content marketing. And the best part? It's 100% organic marketing. No ads required.Whether you're a family photographer or a creative small business owner, you'll walk away from this episode with a practical strategy for:Capturing the exact search terms your clients use when they find you onlineOrganizing those keywords in a project management tool (like Trello)Repurposing client-driven keywords into long-form content for SEOBuilding a sustainable marketing system that doesn't rely on paid adsUsing your contact form as a hidden goldmine for SEO researchRead the entire blog post or watch the whole YouTube video HEREResources & Links Mentioned In This Episode▸ The Essential Launch Email Checklist (FREE) → https://systemsandworkflowmagic.com/emails-needed-for-a-launch▸ Dubsado (get 30% OFF with this link!) → https://systemsandworkflowmagic.com/dubsado-coupon-code▸ Shoutout to Kara Duncan of The Kara Report → https://thekarareport.com/Connect with Dolly DeLong Education
What happens when a creative business owner finally finds the systems support she didn't know she needed? Absolute magic.In this episode, I'm joined by Erin Belles, a custom framer and photographer who discovered my work through a two-year-old podcast episode. Three days later, she was a Systems & Session client. We dive deep into how she went from barely using Dubsado to confidently running a luxury client experience from start to finish.Erin shares how she created a branded, high-touch proposal, wrote 33 pre-written emails during a solo hotel “workcation,” and built workflows for every offer—including newborns and heirloom portraits. If you've been dreaming of systems that make your business feel easier, this one's for you.Find It Quickly:00:28 - Creating A Unique Client Experience01:18 - The Journey to Finding the Right System02:25 - Implementing Dubsado: Challenges and Successes05:41 - Creating a High-Touch Proposal13:05 - The Importance of Client Communication18:41 - Morning Routine and Work-Life Balance19:17 - Family and Newborn Workflows21:26 - Creating and Customizing Proposals22:38 - Email Systems and GPT Integration25:57 - Refining Client Communication28:07 - Final Thoughts and TestimonialsMentioned in this EpisodeSystems in SessionDubsadoConnect with ErinWebsite: erinbellesphotography.comInstagram: @erinbellesphotographyct
In this episode of The Freelancers TeaBreak, Emma Cossey dives into why tracking where your clients actually come from is the secret to smarter marketing and better results. From simple spreadsheets to CRMs like Dubsado and Notion—and even handy tools like Chatra—Emma shares practical ways to track your client sources. You'll also learn how to use that data to boost your discovery call conversions, tap into referrals, and make the most of past clients. Whether you're just starting out or you've been freelancing for years, you'll pick up easy, actionable tips to grow your business and work more strategically. Discovery Call £9 Training: https://freelancelifestyle.podia.com/discoverycalls The Scary Email Template: https://freelancelifestyle.podia.com/10-templates-for-10 Dubsado Afffiliate Link: http://dubsado.com/?c=freelancelifestyle 20% off your first year Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:33 The Impact of AI on Freelancing 00:58 Clarifying Your Services 01:08 Tracking Client Sources 03:13 Optimising Discovery Calls 04:49 Alternative Contact Methods 06:21 Leveraging Your Network 07:33 Weekly Challenge and Conclusion Follow me on Instagram Follow me on Bluesky Email: hello@emmacossey.com Come join us in the free Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group Want more support? Check out the Freelance Lifestyle School courses and membership. Join the Freelance Lifestyle Discord Community: https://discord.gg/RKYkReS5Cz
Your social media strategy just got a whole lot more interesting. In this marketing updates episode, Emma breaks down the latest moves on Instagram and Meta that you actually need to know – not just the stuff everyone else is talking about. Screenshots may soon count as engagement (yes, really), the Instagram repost feature is officially live, and posting frequency is now scientifically proven to boost reach. On top of that, Meta is leaning into AI ad targeting, while Instagram's new Edits app is quietly giving creators a reach advantage. Listen in to Emma explain what each of these platform changes means for your brand, how to create content that actually gets shared this month, and where to focus your energy to scale smart, not hard. By the end of this episode, you'll know exactly where to focus, what to experiment with, and how to make social media actually work for your brand in September 2025. Listen in as Emma explains: How Instagram screenshot analytics could change the way engagement is measured What the data shows about the impact of consistent posting on Instagram The smart way to use Instagram's Edits app And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Ever felt like your entire business depends on your hustle, your content calendar, or the algorithm? On this episode of the Breakthrough Brand Podcast, I'm bringing you business coach and digital marketer Natania of Natania Creates to share a truth every entrepreneur needs to hear: your business is sustained by God, not your grind.Natania gets real about her own forced season of rest after becoming a first-time mom, and how it exposed her wrestle with ambition, identity, and control. She shares scripture-based wisdom that will challenge you to stop eating “the bread of anxious labor” and instead build a business with God at the center. If you've ever struggled with comparison, questioned your pace, or wondered if slowing down will cost you success, this conversation will hit home.You'll hear her talk about:Why hustle can't produce the peace or success you're chasingHow to avoid the comparison trap as an online business ownerWhat it practically looks like to build your business with God, not without HimThe surprising truth about rest as a business strategyThis episode is equal parts sermon and strategy packed with both encouragement and tangible steps to help you release the pressure, trust God with your finances, and build something that lasts. Whether you're in a season of uncertainty or riding high on a business win, this one's for you.Links mentioned: - Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/316 - Follow Natania on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataniacreates- Learn more about Natania: https://nataniacreates.com/- Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabethmccravy - Sign up for Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psb - Take Our Website Quiz (+ Get Free Canva Templates!): https://elizabethmccravy.com/quiz - Join Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!) Need some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop Over my 9 years of business, I have learned some financial skills the hard way and a few years ago, I developed an an 8 step process I go through at the end of each month. This process helps me know how my business is doing financially, pay myself well and allocate money for things like taxes and expenses. And, it's yours for FREE at https://elizabethmccravy.com/profit
Scaling from a half-million-dollar business to a seven-figure brand takes far more than prettier graphics or posting more often. It requires a completely different way of thinking about social media. In this episode, Emma pulls back the curtain on the mindset, systems, and strategies that set seven-figure founders apart from the rest. Drawing from her work with high-growth brands at Ninety Five Media, she reveals why social media success isn't just about content creation - it's about leadership, delegation, and treating your channels as a powerful sales engine. Whether you're still writing your own captions or managing your own content calendar, you'll learn the specific shifts that can free you from execution mode and move you into the role of visionary. From building a strategic marketing team to mastering repurposing and tracking data like a pro, this conversation will help you start operating like the seven-figure founder you know you're ready to become. Listen in as Emma explains: The mindset shifts that separate seven-figure founders from early-stage leaders. How to repurpose core ideas into high-impact content across multiple formats. The visibility strategies that go beyond organic social to accelerate growth. And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Running a business doesn't have to feel like a constant uphill battle but sometimes we unknowingly make it harder than it needs to be. Whether you're just starting out or have been building your business for years, there are certain habits, mindsets, and patterns that creep in and quietly slow down your growth. The good news? You can quit them today and your business (and life!) will be better for it.In this episode, I'm sharing 14 things you might be doing that are making business harder and why it's time to add them to your “To Quit” list. These aren't just beginner mistakes; they're traps I've personally fallen into over the years, even after nearly a decade in business. Originally recorded when I hit my 8-year business anniversary (and just as true now, 9+ years in!), this episode was one of the most popular ones to date. So I'm bringing it back because these lessons are timeless. If you've been feeling stretched too thin, overcomplicating things, or simply ready to make business more enjoyable and sustainable, this conversation will give you practical clarity and permission to let go of what's not serving you.Links Mentioned:Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/315 Shop our Showit Website Templates: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop Join me inside Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod Sign up for the Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psb Want the insider scoop? Join my Free Facebook community: https://elizabethmccravy.com/facebook Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabethmccravy As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!) Over my 9 years of business, I have learned some financial skills the hard way and a few years ago, I developed an an 8 step process I go through at the end of each month. This process helps me know how my business is doing financially, pay myself well and allocate money for things like taxes and expenses. And, it's yours for FREE at https://elizabethmccravy.com/profit Need some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop
You didn't start your business to stay stuck. If you're ready to finally hit 6 or 7 figures WITHOUT burning out — book a call with our team → https://weddingproceo.com/applicationTired of clunky software that makes your job harder? In this episode, I share how my team moved away from an “all-in-one” CRM and paired Dubsado with Timeline Genius to streamline workflows, create professional, customizable timelines, and save hours of stress. Tune in to learn how you can ditch the overwhelm and run your business with efficiency and confidenceThe (FREE!)ASSUME Sales Training: 2x your wedding bookings in 30 days—step by step. Thousands of wedding pros have already used it to land more clients immediately! http://weddingproceo.com/freetrainingorgDiscover Timeline Genius! https://www.timelinegenius.comA favorite book of mine: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz https://amzn.to/4lbqZFwAnother favorite book of mine: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell https://amzn.to/3ITKLb4========================= EPISODE SHOW NOTES BLOG & MORE:https://weddingproceo.com/why-we-switched-crms-part-2/=========================Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Wedding Pro CEO Podcast. If you find these strategies helpful, make sure to share this episode with your fellow wedding pros. And remember, in the world of weddings, it's all about building genuine relationships and showcasing your best work. Until next time, keep shining, CEOs! PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! LEAVE A REVIEW HERE: https://ratethispodcast.com/swdHave a question you'd like Brandee to answer? Ask here: http://bit.ly/3ZoqPmzHeads up, CEO! Some of the links I share may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to purchase—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools and resources I actually use and love, and that I believe will help you grow a profitable, sustainable business you're obsessed with.=========================FREE TRAINING for Wedding Business Owners Take the Wedding Pro CEO's free GAP assessmentSupport the show
You didn't start your business to stay stuck. If you're ready to finally hit 6 or 7 figures WITHOUT burning out — book a call with our team → https://weddingproceo.com/applicationAfter years of sticking with an "all-in-one" platform, I finally faced the hard truth—it wasn't doing everything well, and it was costing my team time, efficiency, and client experience. In this first part of our CRM switch series, you'll hear exactly how we decided to break up with our old system, why we chose Dubsado, and how pairing it with specialist tools is making our business run smoother than ever. The (FREE!)ASSUME Sales Training: 2x your wedding bookings in 30 days—step by step. Thousands of wedding pros have already used it to land more clients immediately! http://weddingproceo.com/freetrainingorg========================= EPISODE SHOW NOTES BLOG & MORE:https://weddingproceo.com/why-we-switched-crms-part-1/=========================Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the Wedding Pro CEO Podcast. If you find these strategies helpful, make sure to share this episode with your fellow wedding pros. And remember, in the world of weddings, it's all about building genuine relationships and showcasing your best work. Until next time, keep shining, CEOs!PLEASE SUPPORT THE PODCAST! LEAVE A REVIEW HERE: https://ratethispodcast.com/swd Have a question you'd like Brandee to answer? Ask here: http://bit.ly/3ZoqPmz=========================FREE TRAINING for Wedding Business Owners Take the Wedding Pro CEO's free GAP assessmentSupport the show
When you're hiking in a remote location or shooting in unpredictable weather, the equipment you have can make or break the elopement day. In this episode, I share the must-have elopement photography gear I rely on, including what's in my bag, why I chose each piece, and why I stick to a simple, lightweight setup rather than overpacking. From my favorite camera to shoot with to which lenses I love, you get a look inside at exactly how I organize my bag to keep elopement days easy and stress-free. If you've ever wondered what gear you actually need for elopement photography, hit play and learn how to build the perfect adventure-ready camera kit. Episode 114: Why Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) Are a Game-Changer for Elopement Photographers Check out our favorite equipment: Canon R6 Canon 35mm f/1.4 Sigma 50mm f/1.4 Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R Canon Speedlite Pelican 1510SC Studio Case with Lid Organizer and Yellow Divider Set Spider Camera Holster SpiderPro Dual DSLR Camera System FRDM Free Fit Midweight Gloves (not an affiliate link) The Stoked Podcast is part of affiliate programs for Amazon, B&H, Imagen-ai, Dubsado, Pic-time, and Flodesk and that some of the links above are affiliate links which may compensate us for using shopping tags in this episode and show notes. Connect with Megan:
200 episodes isn't just a number. It's a milestone that only a tiny fraction of podcasts ever reach. In this special episode, Emma reflects on how Stop Scrolling, Start Scaling grew from a single idea into a powerful engine for visibility, connection, and conversion. From day one, this show has been about giving you more value than we could ever fit into an Instagram caption, and over time, it's become a foundational piece of Ninety Five Media's business growth. Hear Emma explain how the show fits into Ninety Five Media's larger marketing funnel, and get your gears turning about how a podcast might support your own business growth, too. Whether you've listened to all 200 episodes or you're tuning in for the first time, play this episode for honest reflections, major lessons learned, and a glimpse at what's coming next. Listen in as Emma explains: How podcasting became a high-converting part of our marketing funnel What we've learned from listening closely to our audience analytics The ripple effect this podcast has had on our listeners and our business And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Lately, my “content calendar” looks a lot like baby snuggles, coffee refills, and… not much time for social media. And that's okay! Because SEO blogging is one of the things working behind the scenes for me. One well-crafted blog post can keep showing up in search results, sending me traffic and leads long after I've hit publish. It's the exact strategy I wish more business owners used, and today we're talking all about it.In this episode, I'm bringing you my podcast manager (and blogging expert), Kara Duncan from The Kara Report. Kara specializes in helping creative business owners grow through done-for-you blogging and Pinterest services, and she's sharing eight underrated SEO blogging strategies that most entrepreneurs are skipping without even realizing it. These aren't the same generic “use keywords” tips you've heard a hundred times. Kara goes into the details of where to place those keywords for maximum impact, how to optimize your images so they help you rank and why Pinterest is still a powerful tool for backlinks even if your audience isn't hanging out there She even shares exactly what you need to do to get your blog showing up in ChatGPT!This episode is packed with practical advice that's easy to implement, no matter your blogging experience. And the best part? Once you put these strategies in place, they'll keep working for you for months and years to come, giving you more time to focus on the things that matter most. Links mentioned: - Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/314 - Follow Kara on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thekarareport - Download Kara's private podcast: https://thekarareport.com/private-podcast - Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabethmccravy - Sign up for Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psb - Take Our Website Quiz (+ Get Free Canva Templates!): https://elizabethmccravy.com/quiz - Join Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!) Over my 9 years of business, I have learned some financial skills the hard way and a few years ago, I developed an an 8 step process I go through at the end of each month. This process helps me know how my business is doing financially, pay myself well and allocate money for things like taxes and expenses. And, it's yours for FREE at https://elizabethmccravy.com/profit Need some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop
When your social media strategy is dialed in, opportunities like national press can come to you. In this case study episode, Emma walks you through how one of Ninety Five Media's longtime clients turned a single, strategically written Instagram post into a Homes & Gardens feature — without a PR agency. Emma breaks down the common conundrum of whether to invest in PR or social media and explains why, when done right, your content can actually do both. You'll learn what made this particular post stand out to editors, how to highlight the benefits of your services instead of just the features, and how to position your brand for visibility and credibility. Whether you're dreaming of press coverage or simply want to grow your presence online, this episode demonstrates how social media can be the engine behind your biggest opportunities. Listen in as Emma explains: How to generate PR opportunities without a publicist on social The specific client strategy that led to a Homes & Gardens magazine feature The brand messaging mistake most founders make on Instagram And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Hey friends! As you're tuning in, I'm currently out on maternity leave (soaking up the baby snuggles!), and I've invited some of my amazing business friends to share guest trainings with you while I'm away. I'm kicking things off with none other than my dear friend Stephanie Kase (who you've probably heard on the podcast before). She's brilliant, grounded, and brings so much practical wisdom, especially around evergreen marketing.Stephanie's diving into a topic both of us are passionate about: how to make evergreen marketing actually stick in your business. If you've ever felt tired of the social media hamster wheel or are looking for a more sustainable way to grow your brand, this episode is for you. She breaks down what evergreen marketing really means, how to choose the right platform (and commit to it!), and how to create content that continues working for you long after it's published.I especially loved her advice on batching content, repurposing strategically, and how she uses tools like YouTube and even ChatGPT (yep!) to simplify her process. She also shares real examples from students and her own business… including how her YouTube channel brings in 400+ leads a month while working part-time hours as a mom of three. It's seriously inspiring.Stephanie's been in this game for nearly a decade, and what she teaches is not only doable, it's sustainable. So grab your notebook or take a walk and soak in all the gold she's about to share.Links mentioned: - Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/313 - Follow Stephanie on Instagram: https://instagram.com/stephanielynnkase - Grab Stephanie's sample evergreen calendar: https://stephaniekase.com/evergreencalendar- Download Stephanie's private podcast: https://stephaniekase.com/evergreenpregame- Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabethmccravy - Take Our Website Quiz (+ Get Free Canva Templates!): https://elizabethmccravy.com/quiz - Join Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!) Need some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop
Capture The Chaos - Grow Your Newborn and Family Photography Business
Ever find yourself rewriting the same email… for the 47th time?
Community engagement isn't just a nice-to-have. It's the key to scaling your brand. In this episode, Emma breaks down the true power of building real relationships through social media engagement. If you've been focusing solely on posting content and hoping for the best, you might be missing out on the most impactful part of your marketing strategy: authentic conversations that convert. Emma shares why content alone won't keep your audience around, and how community-first marketing can completely transform your sales pipeline. Whether you've never replied to a DM in your life or you're spending hours in the comments section, this episode will help you rethink the role of engagement in your business growth. Plus, she pulls back the curtain on how Ninety Five Media's unique team structure includes a community coordinator to help you build relationships at scale without adding more to your plate. Listen in as Emma explains: Why engagement, not content, is the true driver of conversions The difference between inbound and outbound community engagement What to prepare before hiring a team to handle engagement for you And much, much more! Connect with Ninety Five Media: Website Instagram Need Support with Your Podcast? We've got you covered Book a Strategy Intensive Call with Emma for a custom marketing plan for your brand: strategyintensivecall.co Book a call to explore our social media management services for your business! ninetyfivemedia.co/book-a-call Streamline your client experience and make your life easier with Ninety Five Media's favorite CRM, Dubsado! Get 20% off your first month or year with code: emma20
Join us in Oregon for our Bloom Together Business Soiree on September 4th! Get your ticket while you can at https://www.cubicletoceo.co/bloomtogether A 30 minute sales call. A 5 minute proposal. $4K clients signed, sealed, and paid—no chasing required. Taylor Hedden has built a $300K+ revenue stream with her premium Dubsado setup service by rethinking the traditional sales process. Her white-glove VIP offer has served over 200 creatives and service providers, without a big team, ads or burnout. Instead of persuasion-heavy pitches, Taylor leads with strategy and validation. Her proposals feel more like high-end brand experiences than service quotes—and that's exactly what seals the deal. In this case study, you'll get the behind-the-scenes tour of Taylor's productized service and the sales process (including application form, call, and follow-up proposal) that converts consistently and quickly. Connect with Taylor: Interested in Taylor's Dubsado VIP Experience? Find out if it's the right fit for your business: https://chanelandlee.com/dubsado-vip-referral-ellen-yin-media www.ironicallyseriouspodcast.com IG: @tay.hedden IG: @chanelandlee IG: @ironicallyseriouspod Iconic business leaders all have their own unique genius. Take this quick 10 question quiz to uncover your specific CEO style advantage: https://cubicletoceo.co/quiz If you enjoyed today's episode, please: Post a screenshot & key takeaway on your IG story and tag me @missellenyin & @cubicletoceo so we can repost you. Leave a positive review or rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/cubicletoceo Subscribe for new episodes every Monday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ever wonder what the client experience actually looks like inside a premium brand photography business? In this episode, I'm walking you through the exact workflow I use with every single client—from initial inquiry to gallery delivery and beyond. You'll hear about the systems, templates, automations, and even the personal touches that make a huge difference. If managing your clients feels messy or exhausting, this episode is your permission to simplify it.Plus, don't miss the invite to my free webinar with Colie James where we'll help you streamline your client experience and charge more with less stress.02:15 Why every client starts with my contact form04:50 The first email they get after inquiring07:05 How I set up calls and book discovery sessions09:30 The discovery call map that leads to more bookings12:20 Proposals, automations, and payment reminders14:45 My onboarding email and when I send questionnaires17:10 How I outsource shoot guides (and why that's been a game changer)19:20 The weekly pre-shoot email series I run21:00 The day-of experience and shoot structure23:45 The post-shoot workflow and delivery process26:15 My offboarding system and how I encourage rebooking29:40 Why your client management struggles aren't your fault—it's your systemsCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJuly 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!Dubsado: 20% offHoneybook: 25%Cloudspot: 50% offImagenEvoto creditsMy photoshoot planning guide templateFull show notes
If you've ever avoided setting up automations in your business because you're scared something will break, sound robotic, or feel impersonal, this episode of Take It Personally is for you.In this episode, I'm sharing a little tough love and a whole lot of encouragement for those of you who are automation-curious but stuck in perfectionism. I'll walk you through real-life examples from my own brand photography business and show you how automations can actually give you more space for personal touch, creativity, and freedom. You don't have to babysit your inbox forever. Let's talk about what's really holding you back—and how to fix it.01:30 Why I avoided automations too (and what changed my mind)03:40 What's really holding you back from setting up workflows05:15 Automations don't have to be robotic07:10 A behind-the-scenes look at how my CRM is set up09:00 What to do if you're scared of sending something by accident11:35 Why human error is not the end of the world14:00 Strategic automation vs. intentional personal touch16:15 Why automations create more space for connection18:10 Final pep talk (plus your invite to the free webinar!)CONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJuly 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!Dubsado: 20% offHoneybook: 25%Full show notes
Feeling like your brand photography biz runs you during busy seasons (and disappears during slow ones)? This episode is your permission slip to take a break, without your business falling apart. I'm breaking down the three essential workflows every brand photographer should have in place to run a streamlined, premium-feeling business that keeps booking even when you're off the grid.These automations will help you simplify your backend, lighten your mental load, and create an experience that gets clients talking (and referring). Whether you're still sending paper contracts or already dabbling with CRMs like HoneyBook or Dubsado, you'll walk away from this episode with easy, actionable ideas to uplevel your process.Want even more help building a premium brand? Colie James and I are hosting a free masterclass: Charge More, Stress Less, on July 17th to help you set up workflows that help you book dream clients, save hours every week, and make your brand feel premium. Grab your free spot here!1:40 Why summer slow seasons don't mean your business has to stop4:20 The power of automations (and what they really do for your brand)6:15 The inquiry workflow automation and creating a strong first impression9:20 The onboarding + delivery workflow (think start to finish steps for client)17:35 Why communication matters more than speed for editing21:10 The offboarding workflow and increasing rebookings and referrals26:25 How these automations make you look premium and stand out to commercial clients29:45 Getting started: simple places to begin automating todayCONNECT WITH MADDIE:InstagramWebsiteLINKSJuly 17 Webinar with Colie James: Charge More Stress Less - Learn how to automate the sales process for your luxury brand photography offer. Save your spot now!Dubsado: 20% offHoneybook: 25%Full show notes
If you've ever wondered whether you should start a YouTube channel or launch a podcast, this episode is for you. As someone who's hosted over 300 podcast episodes and has experience on YouTube, I'm here to give you an honest, data-backed breakdown of both platforms.In this episode, I'm busting six of the most common myths you've probably heard and sharing what's actually true in 2025. We'll talk about what's changed in recent years, how both platforms are evolving, and why in some cases, I actually do recommend YouTube (even though I teach podcasting).We're also talking about how things have shifted recently, what's actually working in 2025, and how to make a decision that fits your content, your goals, and your personality.If you're tired of all the "one right way" advice and just want a real conversation about what's best for you, this is the episode to listen to.Links Mentioned:- Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/311- Join me inside the Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psb - Grab my Free Podcast Equipment Guide: https://elizabethmccravy.com/record - Shop our Showit Website Templates (use code BBPODCAST for 10% off!): https://elizabethmccravy.com/showit-website-templates/ - Join me inside Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod - Want the insider scoop? Join my Free Facebook community: https://elizabethmccravy.com/facebook - Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethmccravy/Need some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!)
Today, I'm introducing you to Kate Tran — my neighbor and a videographer I've personally worked with. If you've taken any of my courses, you've already seen Kate's incredible work. She's the owner of a Nashville-based video production company, and has worked with major brands like CMA, Like to Know It, Tractor Supply, Make-A-Wish, and many more. But what really shines through in this episode is her passion for helping smaller, lesser-known brands find their voice through video content.We're diving into how to create amazing video content as a small business owner — especially when you're wearing many hats and doing it all yourself. The focus is primarily on video content for social media, especially Instagram, but we also touch on other uses for video as well.In our conversation, we cover topics like:Building confidence on cameraTesting your content with Reels trialsAvoiding common mistakes business owners make with videoAnd so much more!Plus, I also encourage you to listen all the way through to the end — my favorite part of the conversation happens in the last 15 minutes. Kate and I talk about working mom life. She's a mom of three and was a stay-at-home mom until COVID hit in 2020. When her youngest was about a year old, she started freelancing, not even sure she could call it a business yet. She shares so much wisdom about starting a business as a mom and balancing motherhood while building something meaningful.Links Mentioned:- Read the full shownotes: https://elizabethmccravy.com/310 - Follow Kate on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katetranvideoproduction - Work with Kate Tran: https://ktvp-studio.com/ - Connect with Elizabeth on Instagram: https://instagram.com/elizabethmccravy - Take Our Website Quiz (+ Get Free Canva Templates!): https://elizabethmccravy.com/quiz - Join Booked Out Designer: https://elizabethmccravy.com/bod- Sign up for Podcast Success Blueprint: https://elizabethmccravy.com/psbNeed some extra pages to improve or add onto your Showit website, BUT you're not in the market for an entirely new template? You need my Add On Templates for Showit! You'll find add ons like speaker pages, podcast pages, quiz lead magnets, favorite things pages, Link in Bio pages, and more.Use the code “BBPOD”to save 15% on your add on or full site template for a limited time: https://elizabethmccravy.com/shop As you start your biz, you're likely starting subscriptions to things left and right, like Showit, Dubsado or Honeybook, FloDesk, Riverside, and Kajabi just to name a few. To get the best deals on your needed software + easy to understand info about that software and if it's right for you, head to https://elizabethmccravy.com/tools (This page does use affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission!)