POPULARITY
Do Business. Do Life. — The Financial Advisor Podcast — DBDL
As a coach to independent financial advisors, I see a lot of advisors struggling with the same issue—they blend in with the advisor down the street. And when prospects can't see what makes you unique, it becomes a lot harder for them to understand why they should choose you over anyone else.That's why I loved today's conversation with Glenn Street. Glenn built one of the most differentiated businesses I've ever seen—Street Characters, the company behind many of the most iconic mascots in the NFL, NHL, MLB, and major college sports. But the real lesson from this episode isn't about mascots. It's about how he picked a niche, went deep, and created a level of expertise and service that big competitors couldn't match.Glenn didn't try to be everything to everyone. He focused on a narrow lane, understood his customers better than anyone else, and delivered a product and experience no one else in his space could touch. Advisors can do the exact same thing—especially in a market where most firms look and sound identical. When you specialize with intention, understand your audience on a deeper level, and build a brand that feels unmistakably yours, you become the advisor people talk about, remember, and seek out.3 of the biggest insights from Glenn Street…#1.) Niching Down in a Commoditized IndustryOne of the things I loved about Glenn's story is how he didn't try to compete with the Disneys of the world. He found a narrow lane—sports mascots—and went deeper than anyone else. That's exactly what most advisors need today. When you pick a niche and truly understand the people you serve, you stop blending in and start becoming the advisor everyone talks about.#2.) Core Values Don't Matter Unless You Actually Live ThemA lot of firms have core values, but very few bring them to life the way Glenn does. His team starts and ends their day with them. They use them to make decisions, solve problems, and hold each other accountable. It's a simple reminder that culture isn't something you write, it's something you practice.#3.) The Right Incentives Turn Good Teams Into Great OnesGlenn has built a culture where A-player behavior is recognized and rewarded—whether that's through peer shoutouts, clear performance targets, or a team trip to Mexico when they hit their goals. These aren't random perks; they're intentional systems that reinforce what “great” looks like. SHOW NOTEShttps://bradleyjohnson.com/146FOLLOW BRAD JOHNSON ON SOCIALTwitterInstagramLinkedInFOLLOW DBDL ON SOCIAL:YouTubeTwitterInstagramLinkedInFacebookDISCLOSURE DBDL podcast episode conversations are intended to provide financial advisors with ideas, strategies, concepts and tools that could be incorporated into their business and their life. No statements made in the episode are offered as, and shall not constitute financial, investment, tax or legal advice. Financial professionals are responsible for ensuring implementation of anything discussed related to business is done so in accordance with any and all regulatory, compliance responsibilities and obligations. The Triad member statements reflect their own experience which may not be representative of all Triad Member experiences, and their appearances were not paid for. Triad Wealth Partners, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Please visit Triadwealthpartners.com for more information. Triad Wealth Partners, LLC and Triad Partners, LLC are affiliated companies. TP11254981386See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Trying to be the super GP who does every procedure might be making your practice harder than it should be. In this episode, Dr. Alex Sharp explains how specializing not only helps you create a model that's easier to market and scale, but also lets you spend more of your time doing the dentistry you actually enjoy. Hear where the GP model still works, how to specialize in an existing practice, and what the future of dentistry looks like!Topics discussed:Alex's journey from associate to practice owner to CEOThe benefits of niching down for dentist and patientWhy your marketing isn't working and what to do instead3 key factors for a successful denture/implant practiceHiring for implants: doctor fit and the dentist's roleWhat's changed and where dentistry is goingLearn more about Shared Practices Group: https://sharedpracticesgroup.com/Listen to The Full Arch Podcast: https://thefullarchpodcast.com/This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comGRAB THE FREE PLAYBOOK HERE - Discover 30 proven strategies top-performing dentists use to increase profits, cut clinical days, and finally enjoy the freedom they originally built their practices for.https://www.dentalpracticeheroes.com/playbook Check out www.relevanceonlinemarketing.com if you want to get the same great marketing results as Dr. Etch. Mention DPH and get your first month FREE!Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.
This one's a favorite. We HAD to bring it back. Back when we were just getting started, there were people who felt way out of reach. Today's guest was one of them... until we made it happen. In this episode, we sit down with **John Lee Dumas** — host of *Entrepreneurs on Fire*, a podcasting legend with over 3,800 episodes, 130 million listens, and $24M+ earned. Yeah. That's real. But this convo? It's not about the flex. It's about how **you** can turn your content into a full-blown machine. JLD shares: - How to stand out in a crowded space (even if you're just starting) - Why “niching till it hurts” might be the only way to win - The simple mindset shift to get consistent with your content - How publishing daily changed everything - The behind-the-scenes of building a 7-figure podcast brand We talk hustle, systems, monetization, and why publishing even when you feel like an imposter is your secret weapon. This episode is pure fire. **Ready to go from stuck to monetized?** Join our 1-on-1 challenge with Fonzi at: [www.bizbros.co/monetize](http://www.bizbros.co/monetize) Or if you're done doing this alone… become a part of something bigger: [BusinessCreator.Club](http://businesscreator.club/) Because Content Is Profit — and this is how you build it.
Professor-in-residence at StoryBrand and host of the new podcast Badass Softie, Dr. J.J. Peterson, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss how to strike a balance between authority and empathy. And be sure to stick around to the end to hear J.J.'s take on AI's impact on professional services and how to avoid creating ‘louder garbage' :-)Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:17) - JJ Peterson's Current Ventures (01:11) - The Concept of 'Badass Softie' (03:26) - StoryBrand Framework Explained (06:20) - Empathy and Authority in Leadership (08:42) - Balancing Empathy and Authority in Coaching (12:38) - Personal Experiences and Coaching Styles (16:05) - Communicating Empathy and Authority Effectively (24:44) - Engaging Your Audience with Empathy and Authority (28:06) - Controlling the Narrative in Marketing (29:07) - Embracing Your Authentic Self as a Guide (31:41) - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (40:52) - The Importance of Niching Down (47:35) - Leveraging AI in Professional Services (51:39) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts LinksJ.J.'s website » https://www.drjjpeterson.com/J.J.'s podcast » https://www.badasssoftie.com/ ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!
Today, I'm joined by Jamie Whiffen, a master YouTube strategist who's worked with some of the world's leading creators including Ali Abdaal, Gordon Ramsay, Simon Squibb, and Brian Johnson, helping them generate hundreds of millions of views. In this episode, Jamie breaks down the real strategies behind YouTube growth, the metrics that actually matter, and the common mistakes both small and established creators make. From his early days making Minecraft videos at age 11 to becoming one of the most sought-after YouTube strategists in the world, Jamie shares the unfiltered truth about building a career in content creation. What You'll Learn: Why click-through rate doesn't matter (and what metrics you should focus on instead) The PVSS Hook Framework that's helped creators dramatically improve their first 30-second retention How to increase impressions and actually get YouTube to push your content Why subscribers are overrated and what returning viewers really mean for your growth The biggest mistakes small creators make (and how to avoid them) How to monetise your content without relying on AdSense or brand deals The truth about working with top creators like Ali Abdaal and what Jamie learned from being thrown in the deep end Why niching down is essential (even if you want to eventually cover everything) How to get on the radar of leading creators and land opportunities in the industry Jamie also shares his honest regrets about going to university, the sacrifices he made in his 20s that eventually paid off, and why speed and execution beat overthinking every single time. Whether you're just starting your content creation journey or you're an established creator looking to break through a plateau, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can implement immediately. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:18 Jamie's Early YouTube Journey: From Magic Tutorials to Minecraft 00:05:46 University Regrets and Career Decisions 00:11:01 First Jobs: Little Studios and Learning the YouTube Business 00:13:49 Fanbytes, Short Form Content, and Choosing Career Opportunities 00:18:27 Working with Ali Abdaal: Speed, Execution, and Key Lessons 00:21:11 How to Get on the Radar of Top Creators 00:24:18 Biggest Mistakes Small Creators Make 00:26:14 Niching Down and Building Your Audience Avatar 00:37:43 The Podcaster Problem: Authority vs Being the Background Character 00:44:57 Understanding YouTube Metrics: Click-Through Rate, Impressions, and What Actually Matters 00:55:58 The PVSS Hook Framework for YouTube Videos 01:01:49 Monetisation Strategy: Email Lists Over Social Media Followers 01:06:19 Short Form vs Long Form: Where to Focus Your Energy 01:06:04 AdSense, Sponsorships, and Building Your Own Products 01:10:38 Career Advice: Sacrifice, Persistence, and Taking Outsized Risk
Want to stop trying to serve everyone and finally own your lane?In this episode of Walk In Victory, host NaRon Tillman sits down with entrepreneur Jon Morris to break down how niching down and leaning into creativity helped him build and sell a successful digital marketing agency. They get real about:Why most founders are afraid to niche down (and how that fear kills growth)How to use creativity and innovation as a competitive advantageThe power of focusing on a specific market segment instead of trying to reach everyoneWhat Jon learned from building and exiting his digital marketing agencyHow to listen to your customers and turn their feedback into profitable offersJon shares hard-won lessons from his own journey — from starting an agency, to scaling it, to finally selling it. You'll hear how being specific about your services, your niche, and your ideal client can unlock bigger opportunities, better pricing, and more freedom. If you're an entrepreneur, agency owner, consultant, or creative professional who feels “too broad” or stuck trying to be everything to everyone, this conversation will help you rethink your strategy and focus on what actually moves the needle.Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Overcoming the fear of niching down00:13 – Host intro and episode overview00:40 – Why creativity matters in modern business01:00 – Jon's personal background and agency experience01:32 – The decline of creativity in education02:30 – How to foster creativity in children (and teams)03:06 – Jon's story and first steps into creativity and business09:30 – The role of focus in business success13:35 – The real benefits of niching down20:09 – Selling a business: Jon's personal insights26:40 – Innovation, customer feedback, and staying relevant29:26 – Final takeaways and call to actionCall to Action If this episode helped you think differently about your niche or your creativity, share it with another entrepreneur who needs to hear it. Subscribe to Walk In Victory for more real conversations with leaders, creators, and visionaries who are building lives and businesses on purpose.Connect With JonWebsiteLinkedinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/walk-in-victory--4078479/support.
Translator Training to Find More Direct Clients Than you can Poke a Stick
Send us a textDownload our free book chapter on niching downIn this week's episode, I spoke to Wes Towers, a website design and SEO expert with 20 years experience, to discuss how freelancers and service providers can adapt their digital presence for the AI era. From "search everywhere optimization" to email marketing strategies, Wes shared with me practical insights on making your website work harder as a lead generation tool.About Wes TowersWes accidentally fell into the web design industry in 2000 when his first employer—a Sydney marketing company that had never built a website—handed him their first web design project. Two decades later, he now runs Uplift, helping businesses optimize their digital presence for maximum visibility and lead generation.Key Topics Discussed
Join Our FREE Start Repairing Credit Challenge: http://startrepairingcredit.com/You want to run effective Meta ads for your credit repair business... but you're worried about blowing your budget.What do you do? Give up on ads? Keep throwing money at them with no real strategy?Well, that's what a lot of businesses do... But what if I told you that you could run Meta ads that actually convert, even on a small budget?Today, I'm joined by Max Knowles, a marketing expert who's built eight-figure sales teams, trained 1000s of entrepreneurs, and created a simple ad system that helps credit pros attract the right audience, build trust, and grow fast without wasting a single dollar. Max shares his step-by-step demo on how credit repair businesses can leverage Meta ads to attract leads and clients without breaking the bank.You'll learn how to set up Meta ads like a pro, write high-converting ad copy with ChatGPT, and use AI to automate conversations with leads. We'll also explore the key factors that make ads successful, like targeting the right audience and focusing on long-term customer value, not just cost-per-lead.If you're tired of wasting money on ads and want to learn how to run campaigns that work, this episode is for you.Tune in!
In today's episode of the It's Your Offer podcast, I sit down with Community Strategist Jordan Godbey. We dig into what's actually working now for paid communities, and why "less but sharper" beats doing all the things. Jordan shares how niching down transformed his business, the two winning community models he sees across top creators, and how to design an experience that scales results without swallowing your time. Mentioned in this episode Growth Community The Paid Community Blueprint Subscribe to Email List Leave a Podcast Review Work/Connect with me: Offer Optimization Scorecard Book a Call Tune in to start taking your business and life to the next level today and don't forget to subscribe or follow the podcast to make sure you don't miss any future episodes. Visit https://jessicamillercoaching.com/ to learn more. You can also follow me on Instagram (@jessicadioguardimiller) and Facebook.
Everyone's obsessed with finding their niche — but the truth is, demographics don't buy.Psychographics do.In this episode, Kendall breaks down why your brand doesn't need a hyper-specific niche; it needs a high-caliber mindset match.You'll learn how to identify the belief systems, behaviors, and emotional patterns that make a client a perfect fit and how to embody the standards that magnetize them in.If you've been trying to attract “your ideal client” and it's still not landing… this one will change how you think about marketing forever.Follow me on ig
If you're offering your services to everyone, chances are nobody's listening. Most businesses, especially coaches and consultants, waste valuable resources trying to speak to a crowd instead of their community. The result is confused messaging, unqualified leads, and no growth. If your marketing feels scattered or your offer is getting lost in the noise, it might be time to stop casting a wide net and start speaking directly to the people who truly need what you provide. What would happen if you focused your message so clearly that your ideal customer knew you were talking to them? In this week's episode, Don and Kyle talk with Josh Taylor, CMO of OptSpot, about how his agency transformed by niching down to serve only car wash owners. Josh shares how narrowing their audience helped them go from charging $50/month to $2,500/month, built a 99% client retention rate, and created a repeatable, strategic playbook for success. Listen in to learn how to scale your business without burning out. Click HERE to check out Opt Spot, and click HERE to transform your marketing business into a StoryBrand Certified Agency. -- Click HERE to get in-person help creating your marketing at the next available StoryBrand Your Business LIVE event! Click HERE to find a StoryBrand certified marketing coach to help you grow your business! Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. It's like having the world's best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at StoryBrand.ai. Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0. Order it now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!
I am really trying to cover all different aspects of branding and marketing with this podcast so today I'm diving into something I haven't covered much: how to attract your dream clients through your brand messaging. I chatted with Kierian Cameron, a graphic designer, brand consultant, and the founder of the UK's first premium print-only business newspaper for brand-obsessed founders and entrepreneurs, Brand Cult. Kierian shares her incredible 'squiggly' career journey—from psychiatric nurse to winning the lottery and starting an education company, which eventually led her to graphic design and launching her newspaper. We delve into brand messaging—what it is, how to be strategic and intentional with it, and what tweaks you can make to attract higher-paying clients. If you've been stuck trying to attract the right clients, this is the episode for you. Key Takeaways Brand Messaging is Your "Cult Doctrine": It's not just about what you say, but what you stand for, including your brand's vision, mission, and the cause you're behind. Be Intentional and Strategic: Instead of throwing spaghetti at a wall to see what sticks, make a conscious decision about what you will and will not talk about before you speak. This prevents you from diluting your brand. Attract the Right People: When you show up authentically, unapologetically, and say things with intention, you will attract the people that resonate with your message, which gets you results quicker. Develop Branded Soundbites: Create five to eight short, core soundbites or clips of your messaging that you can use over and over again—in your social media, elevator pitch, and all brand touchpoints—to reinforce your message. Convey Confidence to Attract Higher-Paying Clients: Higher-paying clients are looking for confidence and expertise. Episode Highlights 01:40 - Kierian describes her 'squiggly career' and how she went from psychiatric nursing in NYC to starting a business in Hong Kong. 09:59 - Kierian explains what brand messaging is and the importance of having a 'villain' in your brand's story. 13:34 - The critical connection between strategy, intentionality, and not diluting your brand. 25:47 - Kierian recommends a book for those who want to attract more affluent clients. 28:33 - Discussing Liquid Death and American Eagle as examples of brands with spot-on or intentionally controversial messaging. About the Guest Kierian Cameron is a graphic designer, brand consultant, and the founder of Cult, the UK's first premium print-only business newspaper. Website: brandcult.uk use discount code: CULTMYSTERY Instagram: @brand.cultuk Mentioned in the Episode Book: The No BS Marketing to the Affluent by Dan S Kennedy Concept: Ikigai (The Japanese philosophy of finding one's purpose) I would love to hear what you think of this episode, so please do let me know on Instagram where I'm @lizmmosley or @buildingyourbrandpodcast and I hope you enjoy the episode! This episode was written and recorded by me and produced by Lucy Lucraft lucylucraft.co.uk If you enjoyed this episode please leave a 5* rating and review!
Smart Agency Masterclass with Jason Swenk: Podcast for Digital Marketing Agencies
Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training Ever wonder how much your agency's growth is limited by staying too broad? Or what could happen if you picked one niche and went all in? Today's featured guest didn't set out to run a food service marketing agency; He followed the opportunities, learned from a few hard lessons selling door-to-door, and eventually discoverd the power of focus. He'll share how niching down, rebranding, and embracing flexibility helped him grow his agency into a specialized agency serving some of the biggest names in food service and the ways in which he and his team refined the agency's positioning. Tyler Smith is the president and owner of Matato, a brand strategy and creative marketing agency focused on food and beverage brands in the food service and “away from home” space. His agency helps those brands reach restaurant operators, chefs, and food service directors with smarter, more intentional marketing. In this episode, we'll discuss: The power of positioning. The difference choosing a niche made for his agency. Flexible selling and empathy in action. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources This episode is brought to you by Wix Studio: If you're leveling up your team and your client experience, your site builder should keep up too. That's why successful agencies use Wix Studio — built to adapt the way your agency does: AI-powered site mapping, responsive design, flexible workflows, and scalable CMS tools so you spend less on plugins and more on growth. Ready to design faster and smarter? Go to wix.com/studio to get started. How Selling Vacuums Led to a Food Service Marketing Agency Tyler laughs about it now, but his first “sales training” involved knocking on doors and demoing carpet cleaners that cost more than most people's first cars. While studying advertising, Tyler was sure he wanted to be a graphic designer or copywriter, and while that door-to-door sales job started as a way earn extra beer money, it ended up being a crash course in marketing psychology. He learned how to capture attention, demonstrate value, and handle rejection — all skills that would later serve him as an agency owner. After college, the 2009 recession hit, and finding a creative job in advertising wasn't easy. So when an agency owner offered him a commission-only sales role, he jumped in. Within a few months, Tyler was closing enough deals to get brought on full-time. Fast forward a decade, and he's now the sole owner of that same agency, rebranded as Matato, now leading a team of specialists helping food brands grow smarter. The Smart Positioning and Rebranding Transformed the Agency When Tyler took full ownership, he knew the agency needed an identity that reflected its niche and direction. The old name didn't quite fit anymore. So he created Matato, a playful twist on “tomato, tomato, potato, potato.” It was something memorable, food-related, and (importantly) trademarkable with a clean domain to match. More than a name change, that rebrand was a signal that the agency was doubling down on food service marketing as their core focus. This was a big move for Tyler as he stepped up as the face of the agency. If you can't own your brand, both emotionally and digitally, you can't expect your clients to trust that you'll own theirs. From Generalist to Specialist: Why Niching Down Drives Growth For years, Matato worked with all kinds of B2B and B2C clients. But as they grew, Tyler noticed the most rewarding and most profitable projects were always in food service. So they made the call to go narrow to grow big. That meant focusing on the brands serving restaurants, distributors, and institutions. Tyler's team helps these brands move from a sales-heavy approach to a true marketing strategy, teaching them how to speak to chefs and operators, not just consumers. Now, their content strategy includes things like their annual Food Service Marketing Playbook, a killer lead magnet that doesn't just promote Matato's expertise , it teaches. Some brands use it to DIY their marketing, others see the value and hire the agency. Either way, Tyler's team wins. What Got You Here Won't Get You There Tyler's secret to getting new business in the early days was just “all grind, no strategy.” Cold calls, trade shows, follow-ups; just pure hustle. But as the agency matured, that changed. They stopped trying to “do everything” and started refining how they show up. After repositioning more firmly in the food industry, their new game plan is rooted in generosity and authority, giving away insights, teaching the industry, and positioning themselves as the go-to experts for food service brands. Their annual Food Marketing Playbook has gotten them great results, and he has also been dabbling in podcasting, an effort that he admits still lacks consistency. All these changes to the brand and how they approach their audience have been a great way to reinvigorate the business and demonstrates his team understands that you can't just tell people to hire you; you've got to show them why. Empathy and Flexibility: The Secret to Long-Term Client Relationships One of Tyler's biggest lessons when it comes to sales is to stay flexible and empathetic. Instead of rigid packages or pushy closes, he focuses on what the client actually needs and finds ways to make it work. That adaptability has helped him build long-term trust (and some very loyal accounts). Sure, early on it led to a few over-committed budgets and sleepless nights, but over time it became one of Matato's superpowers. Tyler calls it “on-the-fly problem solving”, a willingness to adjust, improvise, and make the deal work without losing sight of the big picture. Why Every Specialized Agency Should Start a Podcast Tyler's got deep expertise and connections in his niche. He has noticed podcasting could be the fastest way to build authority and create a content engine without relying on written blogs that no one's reading anymore. It's not just about attention; it's about access. When you interview potential clients and peers in your industry, you're building relationships that open doors. As Jason put it, “It's the number one thing I ever did for my business.” How Curiousity Keeps Your Agency Evolving Looking back, Tyler can see that curiosity helped Matato survive and evolve, especially during the pandemic. When food service came to a standstill, his team didn't sit idle. They experimented, collaborated with chefs and influencers, and tested new lead-gen angles. Things are constantly changing and what got you to this point won't get you there. So his message to agency owners is to stay curious and willing to try many things. Otherwise, you'll be doomed to fail.
Does niching down mean cutting yourself off from opportunity or is the opposite true and the key to attracting more clients actually lies in how your brain filters reality?In this episode, Jess unpacks the science behind niching down, how your Reticular Activating System (RAS) shapes what you see (and miss) in business, and why your focus, not your effort, determines your success.She bridges the gap between neuroscience and manifestation so you can stop chasing and start magnetising the right clients, opportunities, and results.In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why “speaking to everyone” is the fastest way to stay invisible onlineThe neuroscience of manifestation: how your Default Mode Network, Salience Network, and RAS decide what opportunities you noticeThe energetic and strategic reason niching down expands, not limits, your businessHow to reprogram your subconscious to recognize (and attract) your dream clientsThe “Gorilla Effect”: what your brain literally can't see when your niche and message are unclearHow your marketing frequency mirrors your mindset and how to tune it for client attractionBook Recommendation:Jess mentions Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything by James Doty. A powerful look at how science meets spirituality when it comes to rewiring the brain for success and abundance. If you loved today's episode, this read will completely change how you think about your thoughts.NEW! PREMIUM CLIENT ATTRACTION: A three-part on-demand training series designed for women in business who want to attract clients who pay without hesitation and increase their income for the work they're already doing. Enrol here for only $97 with the founding investment (ending soon).
I've spent years talking about fitness, fat loss, and strength training—and that won't stop. But lately, I've realised this podcast needs to evolve with me. In this episode, I explain why The Leo Alves Podcast is niching down—combining my worlds of fitness, card collecting, gaming, anime, and Marvel. I talk about creative burnout, staying authentic as a coach, and why it's okay to let your content evolve as you do. If you've ever felt torn between different passions, this episode will show you that you can bring them together and still stay true to your mission. Sign up to Become A 1:1 Online Fitness MemberBuy My Book, 'Your Fat Loss Journey Starts Here'Start My Free 14-Day Fat Loss Kick-StarterMy InstagramMy ThreadsMy YouTube channelFree Fitness Guides Timestamps:00:24 The Podcast Is Evolving01:24 Why I'm Niching Down Now05:00 Authenticity and Creative Growth08:45 How Pop Culture and Coaching Intersect10:15 Avoiding Creative Burnout14:10 My Promise to Long-Time Listeners15:12 Closing Thoughts + Call to Action
In today's Monday Minutes episode, I break down how to move beyond marketing solely around your professional background and start building a brand that connects with your audience on a deeper, more emotional level. From board game enthusiasts to luxury travel lovers, I share how to identify and speak to the passions, pain points, and identities of your ideal investors. Tune in to learn how to create a message that builds genuine connection and a loyal tribe that lasts through any market cycle. Interested in learning how to take your capital raising game to the next level? Meet us at Capital Raiser's Edge. Learn more here: https://raisingcapital.com/cre
How many times have the gurus advised you to niche down and narrow the focus of your show? But do you feel this is the right advice, or are you being put in a box? After hearing indie podcaster Jacqueline Monroe push back on the “niche rule,” we dove headfirst into the debate. Some of us see niching as a growth strategy and a path to monetization. Others argued that building your brand and finding your voice matter more than fitting into a neat category. Along the way, we asked hard questions: Can “just being yourself” really be a strategy? Is it possible to grow broad and still connect deeply? And does every podcast need to monetize to be successful? This conversation isn't about rules; it's about what works for you. When it comes to podcasting, the only box that matters is the one you decide to build.Episode Highlights: [02:26] Segment Introduction [05:39] Jacqueline Monroe's Philosophy[07:17] Discussion: Is Niching Down Necessary?[15:54] Reframing the Niche Debate[29:43] Niching Down vs. General Topics[46:10] Examples of Non-Niched Podcasts[50:21] New Segment Idea: Clip DiscussionsLinks & Resources: Join The Empowered Podcasting Facebook Group:www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredpodcastingThe Jacqueline Monroe Show: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFsUX8YeuRQcuQgcE37T4AgEmpowered Podcasting Conference 2 Retrospective: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0bBC8m2syERemember to rate, follow, share, and review our podcast. Your support helps us grow and bring valuable content to our community.Join us LIVE every weekday morning at 7 am ET (US) on Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/house/empowered-podcasting-e6nlrk0wOr Join us on Chatter: https://preview.chattersocial.io/group/98a69881-f328-4eae-bf3c-9b0bb741481dLive on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@marcronickBrought to you by iRonickMedia.com Please note that some links may be affiliate links, which support the hosts of the PMC. Thank you!--- Send in your mailbag question at: https://www.podpage.com/pmc/contact/ or marc@ironickmedia.comWant to be a guest on The Podcasting Morning Chat? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1729879899384520035bad21b
S5:325 In this episode of Small Business Stories, host Dr. LL sits down with Emil Abedian, CEO of Council CPAs and newly minted author of Council to Council. Emil shares candid lessons from 15+ years in entrepreneurship, scaling from a solo CPA to a trusted partner for law firms nationwide.
S5:325 In this episode of Small Business Stories, host Dr. LL sits down with Emil Abedian, CEO of Council CPAs and newly minted author of Council to Council. Emil shares candid lessons from 15+ years in entrepreneurship, scaling from a solo CPA to a trusted partner for law firms nationwide.
In this episode of The Fractional CMO Show, Casey Stanton unpacks one of the most important skills for any fractional leader: knowing how to choose the right clients. Using his “inside the car, outside the car” analogy, he explains why the biggest wins come from focusing first on the obvious stuff—industry, revenue, sales model—before worrying about the intangibles like personality or mission. Casey also shares why chasing “perfect clients” is a dangerous trap, why nonprofit work is best done through volunteering instead of client contracts, and why sometimes you just need to test drive a client for 30 or 90 days before deciding if they're a fit. Along the way, he reveals his own hacks—like seeking out values-driven, reliable clients—and explains how setting strong boundaries (with clients or even your kids) builds long-term respect and trust. Key Topics Covered: • The “inside the car / outside the car” model for identifying clients • Why chasing the “perfect client” early on can hurt your business • How to use 30–90 day test drives to qualify clients • Why nonprofits are better served through donations, not contracts • Setting boundaries that clients (and kids) actually respect • Hacks for finding reliable, grateful clients who pay on time • Why morally neutral clients can fuel your mission-driven work • How to build experience, credibility, and income faster by saying yes before saying no
Brian Thompson marks a major milestone with Episode 100 of the Mission Driven Business podcast! In this special retrospective, Brian reflects on 10 standout episodes that made a lasting impact and continue to resonate in his business and life. Whether you're new to the podcast or a long-term listener, Episode 100 captures the heart of the conversations that Mission Driven Business is all about. Episode Highlights 1. Mike Michalowicz put profit first In Episode 7, Mike Michalowicz flipped the traditional profit formula, redefining how business owners can approach cash flow. Mike's episode gave language and structure for something many business owners struggle with. 2. Brian Thompson opened up on the mic In Episode 8, Brian got personal about how and why he started his own firm, Brian Thompson Financial. It was the first time he allowed himself to really be open on the mic, talking about fear, imposter system, and the drive to create something meaningful. 3. George Kinder asked the right questions In Episode 14, George Kinder's thoughtful and grounded presence shone through as he advocated for life planning, which connects a financial plan to an individual's most meaningful goals. His three Kinder Questions have helped many people get clear about what they want their lives to look like. 4. River Nice led with empathy In Episode 20, River spoke so clearly about how marginalized communities -- especially the LGBTQ+ community -- experience guilt or shame around money. The episode is a powerful reminder that empathy can be a superpower. 5. Anjali Jariwala wrote a new entrepreneurial story In Episode 42, Anjali Jariwala shared how she built a thriving financial planning firm, only to turn around and write a children's book that broke sales records. It's a powerful reminder you can build whatever business you want -- and that your business can evolve with your creativity. 6. Krish Himmatramka proposed using profit for good In Episode 57, Shark Tank alum Krish Himmatramka proved you can build a business for-profit and for-impact. His ethical engagement ring company commits to its values every step of the way. 7. LaSean Smith talked to 100 customers In Episode 69, LaSean Smith advised new entrepreneurs to have 100 conversations in order to build a business that people actually want to use. If you're early in your business, LaSean's advice is clear, tactical, and values-based. 8. Hugo E. Gomez looked before he leaped In Episode 79, Hugo E. Gomez tested his business idea and built a proof of concept before making the leap to full-time entrepreneurship.Now his business is thriving by serving a market overlooked by mainstream brands. 9. Channyn Lynne Parker taught philosophy In Episode 83, Channyn Lynne Parker got poetic, talking about purpose, letting your path unfold, and trusting yourself even when it's hard. But Channyn really stands out for turning the children's song “Row, row, row your boat,” into a life philosophy. 10. Masami Sato showed that small actions make a big impact In Episode 93, Masami Sato shared how she started her company with a toddler in her kitchen and built it into a global force for good. Her company, B1G1, is built on the idea that small actions, done consistently, can change the world. Resources + Links Episode 7: Being Profit First with Mike Michalowicz Episode 8: Why I Started My Mission-Driven Business Episode 14: Living Your Passion with George Kinder Episode 20: Defining Your Niche with River Nice Episode 42: Creating The Products You Want with Anjali Jariwala Episode 57: Going from Startup to Shark Tank with Krish Himmatramka Episode 69: Building A Business For Financial Independence with LaSean Smith Episode 79: Niching Down with Hugo E. Gomez Episode 83: Braving Discomfort to Live Your Purpose with Channyn Lynne Parker Episode 93: Harnessing The Power Of Small To Create Global Impact With Masami Sato Brian Thompson Financial: Website, Newsletter, Podcast Follow Brian Thompson Online: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Forbes About Brian and the Mission Driven Business Podcast Brian Thompson, JD/CFP, is a tax attorney and Certified Financial Planner® who specializes in providing comprehensive financial planning to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who run mission-driven businesses. The Mission Driven Business podcast was born out of his passion for helping social entrepreneurs create businesses with purpose and profit. On the podcast, Brian talks with diverse entrepreneurs and the people who support them. Listeners hear stories of experiences, strength, and hope and get practical advice to help them build businesses that might just change the world, too.
SummaryIn this conversation, Eric, the founder and creative director at Cosmic, discusses the intersection of digital strategy and social impact. He shares insights on how organizations can effectively engage their communities through authentic storytelling and marketing. The discussion covers the evolution of Cosmic as a niche agency, the challenges of social impact marketing, and the importance of building meaningful connections in a crowded digital landscape. Eric emphasizes the need for organizations to find their unique purpose and to measure their impact beyond traditional metrics, advocating for a more authentic approach to marketing that resonates with audiences.TakeawaysCosmic specializes in helping social impact organizations tell their stories effectively.The transition to a niche focus can be challenging but rewarding.Authenticity in messaging is crucial for engaging audiences.Building a community around a cause is more effective than traditional marketing.Digital storytelling plays a vital role in social change efforts.Organizations must measure impact in meaningful ways, not just through vanity metrics.Finding purpose in marketing can lead to more fulfilling work.The balance between marketing and authenticity is essential for long-term success.Investing in core channels like websites and email is crucial for sustainability.The future of digital experiences lies in fostering genuine connections.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Social Impact and Digital Strategy02:37 The Evolution of Cosmic and Niche Specialization05:41 Navigating the Challenges of Social Impact Marketing08:42The Importance of Authenticity in Messaging11:34 Building Community and Engagement in Social Impact13:59 The Role of Digital Storytelling in Social Change17:21 The Future of Digital Experiences and Community Building19:59 Measuring Impact and Success in Social Marketing23:00 Finding Purpose in Marketing and Business Practices25:21 The Balance Between Marketing and Authenticity28:27 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysCredits:Hosted by Ryan Roghaar and Michael SmithProduced by Ryan RoghaarTheme music: "Perfect Day" by OPM The Eggs Podcast Spotify playlist:bit.ly/eggstunesThe Plugs:The Show: eggscast.com@eggshow on twitter and instagramOn iTunes: itun.es/i6dX3pCOnStitcher: bit.ly/eggs_on_stitcherAlso available on Google Play Music!Mike "DJ Ontic": Shows and info: djontic.com@djontic on twitterRyan Roghaar:rogha.ar
With only a few weeks left of my summer of guests, I thought it was time to get a little adventurous, and who better to speak to than the wonderful Ashley from A Vow to Artistry?!Ashley specialises in Adventure Elopement styling, which takes her up mountains and off road, creating looks in some of the most hard to reach places. We chatted on:- How Ashley went from Salons to Summits and what inspired her to make the transition.- What it takes to be an 'Adventure Stylist', the commitment, endurance and passion for the job.- Why Niching down is so important LINKS: Join Season 2 of my educator programme right here. Join the makeup artist membership - Level Up Club here monthly makeup artist membership! Use code ANTIMEMBERSHIP to join for £50 for the ENTIRE YEAR!Free Trial Code: LUCTRYMESubscribe to me on YouTube here!Follow me on Instagram! Follow Ashley on Instagram!Kayleigh's diary of the Business BTS newsletter!
Looking for the secret sauce behind building a top-tier recruiting agency in a hyper-competitive market? Want to combine heart-driven recruiting with razor-sharp business strategy? In this must-listen episode, Benjamin Mena sits down with Cari Kraft—legendary leader and top biller at Jacobs Management Group—to reveal how niching down and leading with integrity can skyrocket your recruiting business.
Megan chats with Sarah Seeds from Plant Based Ginger about the surprising power of narrowing your focus to grow a loyal audience, attract brand partnerships, and create lasting impact. Sarah Seeds has been plant-based for over 20 years, and nothing makes her happier than getting people to rethink veggies. For her, food is creativity, connection, and a little bit of kitchen magic. Whether it's turning zucchini into crispy fries, chickpeas into dreamy hummus, or filling your plate with bold, colorful plants, her goal is simple: to help you fall in love with veggies, one delicious bite at a time. We dig into why doing less can actually help you grow more. Sarah shares how choosing one clear focus transformed her blog, brought exciting brand collaborations, and kept her creative energy alive. If you've been resisting niching down, this episode will give you the clarity and motivation you need to move forward with confidence. Key points discussed include: - Start with what you love: Passion is the best fuel for building a brand that lasts. - Analytics reveal the path: Use data to see what content resonates and double down on it. - Authenticity wins every time: Genuine engagement builds stronger, more loyal communities. - Brands want specialists: Companies notice when you're known for one thing done well. - Niching down isn't just content: Photography style, captions, and even music choices matter. - Local and seasonal storytelling: Highlighting fresh, regional ingredients adds depth and uniqueness. - Community beats competition: Collaboration with other creators expands reach and support. - Flexibility drives success: Growth comes when you're willing to pivot and refine your focus. The Grow Community Cookbook If You Loved This Episode… You'll love Episode 468: A Hyper-Niche Blog is More Valuable Than You Think (+How to Make an Income From it) with Emily Rhodes Connect with Sarah Seeds Website | Instagram
What if the fastest way to grow your agency was by narrowing your focus, not broadening it?Steve Guberman is a seasoned agency leader and entrepreneur who knows firsthand the challenges of scaling without focus. After years of running a struggling generalist agency, he discovered the power of niching down that tripled his profitability, and eventually sold his business. Along the way, he uncovered the hidden costs of ‘figuring it out,' the dangers of chasing every client, and why desperation almost always leads to bad deals.You'll also hear real stories: how a manufacturing-focused agency became an industry leader, how a commercial real estate branding shop doubled revenue in a year, and how one 30-year-old agency was destroyed by ignoring AI.What You'll Learn:The costly mistakes of running a generalist agencyHow Steve found his perfect niche and tripled profitabilityWhy does desperation and chasing every client backfireOvercoming team pushback and fears of “getting bored”The three different ways agencies can niche for long-term successThe quickest way to build authority and close deals fastConnect with Steve Guberman:Agency Bytes Podcast — https://www.agencyoutsight.com/podcastBook an Agency Accelerator Call — https://calendly.com/stevegubermanLinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/agencycoach/Resources:Connect with IanDownload a Tackle Box!Supercharge your marketing and grow your business with video case stories today!Subscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tired of saying yes to everything—and still not getting paid what you're worth? Martha Fogarty was, too. After years of permalance gigs, unpaid invoices, and murky job titles, she drew a line in the sand. In this episode, Martha shares how getting hyper-clear on her niche and offer flipped the power dynamic, brought in multiple five-figure clients, and helped her build a freelance business that's finally on her terms. If you've ever felt like clarity could change everything—this one proves it can.About Martha:Martha is the founder of LIFTOFF — fashion's ultimate brand launch lab. Part design school, part business bootcamp, it's where early-stage founders learn how to build labels that don't just look good but become successful, profitable companies. She's spent 25+ years helping companies go from scrappy idea to runway darlings with record-breaking revenues, including Chris Benz and Brandon Maxwell. Along the way, she's picked up CFDA awards, launched, scaled and sold two brands of her own, and guided dozens of founders from "I think I want to do this" to 7-figure business owners. Her mission? Demystify the fashion industry, skip the gatekeeping, and equip and empower future founders to lead like both the Creative Director and the CEO of their future.Connect with Martha:Email her at martha@321liftoff.netCheck out her websiteFollow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Download my Freelance Price List just for fashion (it's free!): sewheidi.com/price
Clarity cuts through, growth follows true. In today's episode, I share why narrowing your focus helps you attract the right listeners, build a strong reputation, and create deeper connections that last. Through real examples and simple frameworks, I break down how to answer the three most important questions for your show: Who do you help? How do you help them? What do you help them with? By the end, you'll see how clarity leads to growth, and why less really does mean more when it comes to podcasting. Tune in now and learn how to grow your podcast with purpose.Podcast Growth Nation - https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1FyLeJB5H5/A free 30-minute call with Kevin: https://calendly.com/kevinpalmieri/free-30-minute-podcast-breakthrough-session-with-kevin?month=2025-08If you want to learn more about podcasts, reach out to Kevin:IG: https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/Email: Kevin@nextleveluniverse.comNeed help with your podcast? Check out Next Level Podcast Solutions: https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-podcast-solutions/Show notes:(2:35) Coffee chains as audience examples(5:10) Defining your who, how, and what(7:00) Why branding and reputation matter(13:09) Nicole, host of Tune In: Discovering Your Authentic Self podcast, has this to say about Next Level Podcast Solutions.(15:03) Talking to fewer but deeper(19:02) Niche, positioning, and referrals(23:32) Turning your podcast into a business(25:13) OutroSend us a text
Nathan invites Lindsey Busfield, the Vice President and Partner at Optimize My Firm, a company specializing in SEO for law firms. Lindsey shares her unique journey into the niche of legal marketing, emphasizing the importance of niching down, becoming an expert in SEO, and understanding market needs. The conversation covers common mistakes businesses make in SEO, DIY strategies for beginners, and the significance of building trust and authority in business. Guest Name: Lindsey Busfield Title: Vice President/Partner Company: Optimize My Firm Website: https://optimizemyfirm.com/ lindsey@optimizemyfirm.com
What if focusing on fewer services and leaning into the right relationships could transform your business and generate millions in ROI? On this episode, our host Kevin Thompson talks with Corey Morris, CEO of Voltage and author of The Digital Marketing Success Plan. Corey has spent 20 years in the marketing industry, navigating a career that began in traditional advertising and evolved into digital marketing leadership. Through a succession plan, Corey became the sole owner of Voltage, where he reshaped the agency from a generalist “do-it-all” shop into a focused powerhouse specializing in SEO, paid search ads, and website creation. In this conversation, Corey shares how mastermind groups and peer communities gave him tough love and clarity, pushing him to double down on what he and his agency do best. He highlights how intentional relationships shaped his path as a leader and fueled his company's growth. Corey also recounts a standout client success story—how his team helped a logistics firm turn a $77,000 investment into $1.2 million in revenue. Listeners will gain powerful insights into niching down, building stronger networks, and the ROI of authentic, meaningful relationships in business. 02:18 – Guest Introduction: Corey Morris • Shout-out to Jessica and the Podcast Guest platform for the introduction. • Corey shares his excitement and context for the conversation. • Kevin sets the stage for Corey's story of career and relationships. 03:26 – Corey's Journey: From Project Manager to CEO • Early career pivot into digital marketing before it became mainstream. • Hands-on learning of SEO, HTML, and search strategies in the early 2000s. • Transition into agency leadership through a succession plan. 07:18 – Challenges and Strategic Decisions • The tension between being a generalist agency vs. specializing. • Tough choice to focus only on SEO, paid search, and websites. • Letting go of “good” work to focus on the “best” opportunities. 12:04 – The Importance of Relationships and Community • The role of mastermind groups and Agency Management Institute. • Peer feedback that pushed Corey to niche down and gain clarity. • Value of accountability, candid feedback, and tough love. 20:33 – Client Success Stories and ROI • Logistics firm case study: $77K investment generated $1.2M in revenue. • Importance of measurable ROI in digital marketing. • Turning lessons into the START Planning framework and his book. 23:56 – Sharing His Process and Book • Introduction to The Digital Marketing Success Plan. • Free tools and resources available at thedmsp.com. • Why Corey focuses on “helping, not selling.” 29:18 – Conclusion and Final Invitation • Kevin highlights Corey's authenticity and client-first approach. • Corey's reminder: every business needs a clear digital plan. • Invitation to connect with Corey and build meaningful relationships. Key Quotes “Sometimes tough love is exactly what we need to get clarity.” — Corey Morris “We had to let go of good work to focus on the best work.” — Corey Morris “Relationships aren't just connections—they're lifelines for clarity, accountability, and growth.” — Corey Morris Connect with Corey Morris Website: thedmsp.comAgency: voltage.digitalLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coreymorris Email: corey@thedmsp.com Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts Spotify iHeart Radio Stitcher
I sit down with Jesse Weidner in this episode, owner of Weidner Landscape Solutions, to uncover the real journey behind building a successful landscaping business. In this episode, Jesse shares actionable insights on scaling from a solopreneur to a thriving team, the power of niching down, and how to create a steady flow of qualified leads through intentional marketing strategies. Discover how leveraging tools like SynkedUP transformed his job costing, pricing, and profitability, and learn the essential lessons every entrepreneur should know about project management, team building, and maximizing margins. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your landscaping business to the next level, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration for business owners in the green industry. If you're interested in learning more about SynkedUP, check us out: SynkedUP - Landscape Business Management Software https://synkedup.com/ Follow us on Instagram: @SynkedUP
From A Big Four Firm to Entrepreneurship In this special episode of The Accountant's Flight Plan, Brannon sat down with Raffi Yousefian, a NY/DC-based CPA and entrepreneur, to discuss his journey to building a thriving tax practice. Raffi began his career at EY before launching his own firm in 2016, growing rapidly before making the bold decision in 2022 to niche down into three verticals. By 2023, he doubled down on his fastest-growing and most rewarding segment: restaurants. He dedicated his brand to that niche and sold off the rest with the help of Poe Group Advisors.Timestamps:00:37 – Intro of Raffi Yousefian his background from EY to launching his own firm and finding his niche04:00 – Why Raffi left public accounting to become an entrepreneur06:50 – Doing less to grow more: The power of niching11:45 – Selling off part of a firm: Risk vs. reward15:20 – Why focus builds deeper expertise and stronger advisory20:00 – Benchmarks, AI adoption, and automation in accounting27:33 – DJ life during tax season: A funny story31:48 – Book recommendation: Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore33:00 – Connect with Raffi via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raffiyousefian/
ComixLaunch: Crowdfunding for Writers, Artists & Self-Publishers on Kickstarter... and Beyond!
Tyler sits down with Max Dunbar, a comic book and concept artist known for his work with Marvel and DC. Max shares insights into his new deluxe hardcover book, 'Fantasy Art,' launching on the Zoop crowdfunding platform, which compiles some of his best work over the past decade, and discusses the challenges and rewards of the creative process. Join an in-depth conversation that explores the intricacies of being a professional artist and the passion that drives creativity.
Smart Agency Masterclass with Jason Swenk: Podcast for Digital Marketing Agencies
Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training What happens when you stop chasing $30K projects and start solving real problems for smaller clients in a way that actually works? Today's featured guest had been building $32,000 websites for mid-market companies. On paper, it looked like success. But in reality, he felt stuck—unfulfilled and back in a corporate-style grind that didn't align with the kind of work or life he truly wanted. When he took a step back, he realized something important: the clients he really wanted to serve were already reaching out. These were smaller, $300K businesses with many of the same challenges agencies see across the board—but without the bloated complexity. So he made a bold pivot. He simplified his offer, created a productized service, and returned to his roots—helping people in a way that felt meaningful, scalable, and sustainable. The result? Less stress, more impact, and a business model built around freedom, not friction. Nate Freedman is the founder of TechPro Marketing and creator of MSP Sites, a productized service built specifically for Managed IT Service Providers. After years of working in high-ticket agency engagements, Nate made a bold pivot—focusing on volume, automation, and scalable coaching for small IT firms. That shift helped him grow from a $20K/month agency to a $2.5M+ business serving over 100 clients with a tight, dialed-in model. We'll explore his early missteps, the aha moment that changed everything, and the system he built to serve a niche audience at scale—without losing his soul. In this episode, we'll discuss: Pivoting to MPSs as the perfect fit. Creating a low-ticket offer. Productizing with a purpose. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources This episode is brought to you by Wix Studio: If you're leveling up your team and your client experience, your site builder should keep up too. That's why successful agencies use Wix Studio — built to adapt the way your agency does: AI-powered site mapping, responsive design, flexible workflows, and scalable CMS tools so you spend less on plugins and more on growth. Ready to design faster and smarter? Go to wix.com/studio to get started. Impostor Syndrome and the Accidental CEO Nate's background wasn't in marketing strategy or enterprise consulting. He was a self-taught internet nerd who cut his teeth writing affiliate articles and selling photo recovery software online. He studied accounting, not realizing when he picked that career that being an online marketer was an option. Right out of college, his first job was at an accounting firm, an experience he promptly hated. He felt exposed and like a fish out of water. This is a feeling he recognized years later when, the more his agency took on large, complex clients like Salesforce, the more he felt like a fraud. He was working with large corporations and felt like an impostor. It just wasn't the right fit for him. “I was putting on a kind of a facade. Like, I was pretending to be someone I wasn't… and it just wasn't me.” That realization drove Nate back to his roots: helping people who reminded him of himself. From Big Clients to Bigger Misalignment Nate didn't start small. Like many digital agency owners, his early focus was on winning big projects—$10K, $20K, even $32K website and marketing packages. And sure, those checks looked great at first… until a very good client sent him the dreaded email: “Nate, when are we going to generate leads from this?” That one question—posed by a well-meaning client already $32K in—flipped the switch. Nate realized that delivering work isn't the same as delivering results. The more he moved upmarket, the more he felt like he was back in the corporate world he hated. High-maintenance clients. Long sales cycles. No real alignment. He wasn't building relationships. He was building a façade. Finding His People: MSPs as the Perfect Fit Nate's breakthrough came when he niched down into the MSP (Managed Service Provider) space. These were former tech guys turned business owners—scrappy, smart, and stuck in the same ways agency owners often are. They didn't need $30K marketing retainers. They needed help generating leads, converting visitors, and staying in business. Nate made a gutsy move. He ditched his high-ticket proposals and started sending BombBomb videos to leads who had previously ghosted him: “You turned down my $20,352 proposal. Here's my new one: $2,000 a month, and I'll help you generate leads. I don't even know exactly what I'll do yet. I just want to help you grow.” That transparency worked. Five early adopters signed on, and Nate never looked back. Scaling a Low-Ticket, High-Impact Model What started as a simplified offer became a flywheel. Over seven years, Nate scaled his agency to over 100 monthly clients, all paying around $4,200/month. But growth at that level brings churn. With just 3% monthly churn, he'd have to invest more on sales and onboarding and close three new clients a month just to break even. However, focusing on growing this way meant turning away 75% of leads who were not at least $1 million in revenue that could afford the expense. And most of the businesses reaching out to his agency were at 200K-300K. Nate felt he could service those clients without a big investment in human resources. This sparked the next evolution: MSP Sites. The new offer targeted those MSPs doing $200K–$300K/year. These folks couldn't pay $4K/month… but they desperately needed help. So Nate reverse-engineered a low-cost, high-value offer that started at $200/month and eventually grew to include: Custom-designed websites Human chat agents CRM and booking automations On-demand courses and live office hours Weekly coaching and a client-only community He went from being “just another agency” to becoming an all-in-one marketing partner for small MSPs—at a price they could actually say “hell yes” to. Productizing with Purpose: Lessons from the Pivot This shift to a productized offer came with unexpected lessons, as Nate was confronted with a question from his past work making $32K websites or a $200 website: “Where are the leads?” He realized that whether he was going after the high end or low end of the market, he still had to provide an end result for clients. Low ticket doesn't mean low impact. He has to answer that question while still providing an affordable service, so he started layering in automation, coaching, and a structured experience This slightly raised the price to $300/month, but clients not felt like they were part of a premium program. Nate wanted to help clients not just have a website, but also generate leads, drive traffic, and close the deal. By adding live calls, email support, and a live event, Nate turned MSP Sites into more than a tool—it became a tribe. Once the service was upgraded and clients could get their website set up even faster, the problem was that now they all looked the same. Nate knew his clients deserved better, so he removed the one-click deploy and now ensures each website is custom-designed to look amazing. Of course, this also led to a rise of the set up fee, but clients were more than happy to pay for a better design. Finally, on-demand courses and live office hours were the finishing touch for his new offer and he was finally helping clients much more and building the business he really enjoys. Market Share > Margins (When You're Playing the Long Game) At some point, most agency owners fantasize about selling. Nate's no different—but he's thinking a few moves ahead. Instead of relying on private equity, his bet is on strategic acquisition by a larger company in his own niche. “The best multiple I'm going to get is from someone who wants more market share.” That's why he's focused on volume at the low end. Every small client is a slice of market share. And if you can build community, coaching, and brand loyalty into your offer, you're not just a service provider—you're infrastructure. The Next Frontier: Launching a Mastermind With 300+ paying clients, Nate's building something many agency owners should be thinking about but don't: a mastermind for your niche. Why? Because clients already trust you. They're already getting value. And when you get them in a room together—virtually or physically—magic happens. Better yet, Nate doesn't need to be the guru. The best masterminds don't revolve around one person—they're facilitated, not taught. When the room is full of practitioners, the value is in the conversations. Do Right By People (and You'll Win) Scaling isn't just about tech, pricing models, or marketing hacks. It's about people. Nate credits a huge part of his growth to partnering with E2M Solutions, which removed the HR complexity of managing a dev team in-house. More importantly, it aligned with his core value: “Do right by people. If you do that, no one's going to say anything bad about you. Even when you make mistakes.” It's simple, but in a crowded industry full of overpromising and under-delivering, that integrity stands out—and scales. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.
Did you know that narrowing your focus to one clear niche can actually bring you more business, not less? In this episode, Steve Kyles and Frank Garay share why the most successful loan officers build their reputation in a specific area first before expanding into others. You'll learn: How a niche instantly sets you apart from the competition and attracts top-producing agents Why trust in one specialty opens the door for deals outside your niche Simple steps to identify or refine your own profitable niche How to position yourself as the go-to expert in your market If you're ready to build a business that stands out and grows faster, this episode will show you how to start strong. → Learn more about coaching at FreedomPlanningCall.com
Did you know that narrowing your focus to one clear niche can actually bring you more business, not less? In this episode, Steve Kyles and Frank Garay share why the most successful loan officers build their reputation in a specific area first before expanding into others. You'll learn: How a niche instantly sets you apart from the competition and attracts top-producing agents Why trust in one specialty opens the door for deals outside your niche Simple steps to identify or refine your own profitable niche How to position yourself as the go-to expert in your market If you're ready to build a business that stands out and grows faster, this episode will show you how to start strong. → Learn more about coaching at FreedomPlanningCall.com
In this episode, I sit down with Steve Kyles to explore the power of finding a niche as a loan officer. We break down why having a niche doesn't mean you're limiting yourself—it actually opens doors. A clear niche helps you stand out, attract the right attention, and build credibility with producing real estate agents. The best part? Once you're trusted in one area, it becomes easier to earn business outside of that niche too. If you need help identifying or refining your niche, we're here to coach you through it. Just visit FreedomplanningCall.com to schedule a free call. Schedule a one-on-one free coaching call, click here or visit DailySuccessPlan.com.
I used to fear niching down, until I realized it brought clarity, purpose, and deeper connection. In this episode, I share how my niche evolved, why it's helped me grow during life transitions, and how it can help you too. Especially if you're a mompreneur rebuilding after grief or change.
Justin Bass, Senior Wealth Manager and Managing Director of MAI Capital Management, has spent the last three decades as an advisor for athletes and sports business professionals. We sat down with Justin to understand his approach to working with a unique client niche, and learn how he draws on both his passion for sports and knowledge of financial planning to offer targeted expertise to clients.
Discover how Fernando Corona transitioned from engineering to successful real estate investing through resilience, mindset, and niching down into DSCR loans. Learn his strategies for scaling portfolios, building partnerships, and finding true financial freedom.See full article: https://www.unitedstatesrealestateinvestor.com/from-engineering-to-real-estate-finding-success-through-risk-and-resilience-with-fernando-corona/(00:00) - Welcome to The REI Agent: Mattias and Erica's Holistic Real Estate Approach(01:00) - Mattias and Erica's Recent Challenges: Health, Loss, and Resilience(03:29) - Introducing Fernando Corona: A Cheerful Perspective Amidst Difficult Times(09:34) - Fernando Shares His Real Estate Beginnings and the Appeal of DSCR Loans(16:40) - The Power of Niching Down in Lending: Fernando's DSCR Success Story(18:23) - Strategies for Effective Networking and Marketing in Real Estate(20:26) - DSCR Loans Explained: Flexibility for Real Estate Investors(27:55) - Real-Life Risks and Rewards: Navigating Investments as a Couple(34:55) - Lessons from Early Challenges: Resilience in Real Estate Ventures(41:07) - Breaking Down Lending Nuances and the Value of Expertise(47:29) - Creative Strategies in Real Estate Financing and Property Management(55:56) - Key Tips for Agents and Investors to Maximize Returns(58:12) - Niche Expertise: Targeting Specific Investor Needs as a Real Estate Agent(01:58:12) - Fernando's Recommended Reads: Mindset and $100M Leads(02:03:12) - Finding Joy in Entrepreneurship: Fernando's Journey Through Struggles(02:05:46) - Where to Connect with Fernando Corona and Final ThoughtsContact Fernando Coronahttps://lnk.bio/itsfernandocoronaYouTube FacebookInstagramLinkedIn--For more excellent content like this, go to https://reiagent.com
Austin Keitner transformed rejection into revenue by leveraging persistence, strategic action, and investment for financial freedom. Learn his secrets to mastering sales, delegating tasks, and achieving business growth.See full article: https://www.unitedstatesrealestateinvestor.com/the-unstoppable-journey-of-breaking-barriers-and-building-wealth-with-austin-keitner/(00:00) - Introduction to The REI Agent Podcast(00:06) - Meet Mattias: Agent, Investor, and Holistic Approach Advocate(00:08) - Meet Erica: Licensed Therapist with a Holistic Perspective(00:14) - The Mission: Living Bold and Fulfilled Lives Through Real Estate(00:18) - Weekly Interviews with Agents and Investors(00:19) - Ready to Level Up? Let's Do It(00:24) - Recap and Introduction to Guest: Austin Keitner(05:12) - Austin Keitner's Journey: From Door-to-Door Sales to Real Estate(05:43) - Learning Sales and Wealth Building from a Mentor(07:01) - Transitioning from Water Heaters to Houses(07:42) - The Importance of Attitude and Effort in Sales(08:16) - Applying Direct Sales Principles to Real Estate(09:27) - Door Knocking as the Main Lead Source(09:49) - Overcoming Rejection and Building a Database(10:12) - Tracking Metrics and Systemizing Sales(12:26) - Leveraging Administrative Support for Growth(14:04) - The Challenges of Hiring and Delegating(16:01) - The Power of Virtual Assistants and Dollar Per Hour Value(16:38) - Avoiding Low Dollar Activities and Focusing on High ROI(17:42) - Leveraging Strengths and Building Effective Teams(18:12) - Delegation and Improving Customer Experience(19:05) - Overcoming Trust Issues in Delegation(19:39) - Partnerships and Cooperation for Greater Success(20:58) - The Power of Collaboration in Business Growth(21:43) - Building and Leading a Team of Agents(24:41) - Niching Down and Becoming a Local Expert(26:15) - Diversifying Income and Real Estate Investment(26:49) - Navigating Market Changes and Staying Focused(29:46) - Lessons Learned from Real Estate Investment Challenges(30:49) - The Goal of Financial Freedom and Optional Work(31:29) - Profit First and Flipping the Financial Triangle(32:29) - Bank Account Accounting and Financial Freedom(34:00) - Syndications: Hands-Off Real Estate Investment(34:26) - Compounding Wealth and Financial Motivation(36:14) - The Compounding Effect of Time and Wealth(36:51) - The Importance of Mentorship and Continuous Learning(37:23) - The Power of Learning from Others and AI's Role(37:52) - Recommended Reading: The One Thing and Buy Back Your Time(39:20) - Small Actions for Big Success in Life and Business(39:35) - Where to Follow Austin Keitner: Instagram and YouTube(40:15) - Closing Remarks and Gratitude for Guest Appearance(40:24) - Outro: Subscribe and Visit REIAgent.com for More Content(40:36) - Disclaimer: Not Investment Advice or Mental Health TherapyContact Austin KeitnerThe Keitner GroupFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTube--Go to reiagent.com for more incredible holistic content!
Exciting news, Hero Makers! We're sharing a new episode of Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, with Donald Miller back in the host seat. This new show uncovers why certain ideas, brands, and strategies succeed—so you can think differently and apply those insights to your business and life. We're only sharing these episodes in the former Marketing Made Simple feed for a limited time! Catch them early every Monday by subscribing to the StoryBrand YouTube Channel or following Why That Worked wherever you listen to podcasts. Now, enjoy this week's episode of Why That Worked! -- When you're building a personal brand, the biggest mistake you can make is being too broad. The world doesn't need another generalist. It needs someone who owns a clear, specific problem and solves it consistently. That's the magic of niching down. A focused message not only grabs attention, it builds trust and traction faster than trying to be everything to everyone. So what does it look like to get hyper-specific, and how do you know if your niche is tight enough? In this week's episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed break down the personal brand of Dan Go, also known as @FitFounder. They unpack why his brand name works, how his bio instantly communicates value, and how his disciplined content strategy made him a go-to voice for entrepreneurs who want to get healthy. You'll learn what makes a personal brand succeed, how to build authority, and why clarity beats cleverness. Tune in to get the secrets to building a personal brand that actually works. Click HERE to check out Dan Go's Fit Founder account and click HERE to find a marketing coach to help you grow your brand or business. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. It's like having the world's best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at StoryBrand.ai. Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0. Order it now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!
When you're building a personal brand, the biggest mistake you can make is being too broad. The world doesn't need another generalist. It needs someone who owns a clear, specific problem and solves it consistently. That's the magic of niching down. A focused message not only grabs attention, it builds trust and traction faster than trying to be everything to everyone. So what does it look like to get hyper-specific, and how do you know if your niche is tight enough? In this week's episode, hosts Donald Miller and Kyle Reed break down the personal brand of Dan Go, also known as @FitFounder. They unpack why his brand name works, how his bio instantly communicates value, and how his disciplined content strategy made him a go-to voice for entrepreneurs who want to get healthy. You'll learn what makes a personal brand succeed, how to build authority, and why clarity beats cleverness. Tune in to get the secrets to building a personal brand that actually works. Click HERE to check out Dan Go's Fit Founder account. Click HERE to find a marketing coach to help you grow your brand or business. -- Unlock the power of a framework that works—the StoryBrand Framework at StoryBrand.ai. It's like having the world's best copywriter create high-converting marketing whenever you need it. Start your free 7-day trial at StoryBrand.ai. Learn how to make your marketing and messaging work using a proven framework in the updated book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0. Order it now on Amazon or wherever you buy books!
Join Corey Quinn and Andrew Peluso—Founder & CEO of Pesty Marketing—as they dive into the game-changing power of deep specialization in the agency world. Andrew shares his journey from knocking doors as a pest control salesman to building a premium digital marketing agency exclusively for pest control companies doing $1M+ in revenue. Discover the turning points that led him to niche down, the lessons learned from failed partnerships, and how relentless client focus created a defensible “moat” in a crowded market. If you're an agency owner ready to escape mediocrity, charge premium fees, and build unstoppable growth, this episode is packed with hard-won insights! Episode Highlights: The Power of Niching Down — Why trying to do it all nearly sank Andrew's early agencies, and how hyper-focusing on pest control unlocked 30%+ annual growth for his clients. Specialization = Competitive Advantage — How deeply understanding your clients' industry creates trust, loyalty, and less selling. How to Win Premium Clients — The moment Andrew shifted away from serving “everyone”—and saw sales conversations transform overnight. Delegating for Scale — The crucial role of offloading fulfillment, trusting your gut with hiring, and focusing on what drives business growth. Sales as Education — Why Andrew's consultative, research-heavy sales process is winning 5-figure deals (and how you can copy it). Referral Engines That Work — How a simple, generous referral program exploded new client growth. The Future of Agencies and AI — Navigating industry shifts, staying ahead with holistic search, and why change signals opportunity for top-performers. Preparing for What's Next — Andrew's vision for operational excellence, future leadership, and why swinging big is the only way forward. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Pesty Marketing: https://pestymarketing.com Connect with Andrew Peluso on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewpeluso Escape the generalist trap with my best-selling book “Anyone, Not Everyone” and discover how to become the go-to agency in a vertical market https://www.AnyoneNotEveryone.com
Course-creation expert James Marland shares how personal setbacks led him to empower therapists and educators through online courses. His experience highlights the value of niching down, embracing imperfection, and recording wins — with actionable wisdom for growing a mission-driven course business.James Marland is the founder of Course Creation Studio and host of the Scaling Therapy Practice podcast.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and James discuss:06:08 — The Importance of Niching06:54 — Attracting Your Ideal Client11:21 — Embracing Authenticity Through Storytelling14:17 — Passion Over Profit18:05 — Using a Cohort Model for Personalized Learning21:26 — Building Client Relationships Online25:30 — Joyful Niching in Work26:08 — Insightful Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs“Answer the question, not where are my clients, but how do I help them find me? Because they're already looking. Your ideal client is already looking for you.” — James MarlandGuest Bio:James Marland is the passionate founder of Course Creation Studio, where he empowers educators, therapists, and changemakers to amplify their impact through online courses. With a backstory marked by a transformative career shift, James turned a personal crisis into a calling—dedicating himself to helping others harness their potential. A believer in the power of starting small to achieve great things, James champions a practical, step-by-step approach to learning and innovation. At Course Creation Studio, he guides mission-driven professionals to craft compelling educational experiences and write their own success stories. Committed to lifelong learning and grounded in his faith, James inspires his audience to step out of their comfort zones and make a meaningful difference. To support his mission, he is also the founder and host of the Scaling Therapy Practice podcast.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuCourse Creation Studio: CourseCreationStudio.comScaling Therapy Practice podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LlAlEJr39YRD3FCTCm9Vf?si=a96d093078234f0bCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzEditor: Andrew ChapmanExecutive Producer: Danny InyMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Daily Wins, Niching Down, and Course Creation That Works (James Marland) coming soon.
Have you ever watched a viral video on social media and wondered how it captured millions of views? What magic formula did the creator use that made you hit the share button without hesitation? In today's episode of Insight Out, I'm thrilled to have Joel Lalgee, a social media sage and content wizard, especially when it comes to making waves on platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok. In this episode, we discuss the craft behind viral content, the importance of developing a recognizably unique voice, and the strategies for keeping viewers hooked from the first second. Joel shares the invaluable insights he gained from his triumphs on TikTok and LinkedIn. We explore the world of social media algorithms, discover what makes posts attention-grabbing, and look into the effectiveness of niching down to create impactful, resonant messages. Joel opens up about the balance between entertaining and informative content, the value of engaging directly with your audience, and the relentless pursuit of improvement through content iteration. Tune in now, and gain the knowledge you need to make your content truly stand out. Here's what you can expect in this episode: Loving content creation means consuming and understanding it. - (06:01) Social media platforms focus on revenue through ads. - (13:30) The Power of Niching Down - (19:10) Joel covers LinkedIn credibility and text in videos for attention. (20:18) Simplify speech and writing for more impact.- (25:03) Competition for attention in content creation. - (30:06) Blocking time for priorities in calendar is key for building a brand. - (34:00) Using funny, entertaining content for marketing strategy. - (38:50) Monetizing meme accounts and TikTok challenges, preferring content monetization - (47:20) Building relationships through unique content is essential. - (57:07) Focus on real relationships, not just gaining followers.- (1:04:19) Key insights: Mastering the perfect hook, line, and sinker for your videos Riding the hashtag highway to get your content seen Time juggling like a boss between work, family, and content creation Real talk on the common facepalms content creators make Notable quotes: “At a certain point, you have to just do some of this stuff... you've got to do it as well and test it out.” (10:46) - Joel “After four years of just creating content, I just don't care... I'm just more interested in what works and what doesn't.” (11:10) - Joel “Once I get past that three to five-second mark... whatever I say after that doesn't matter as much... So that's what I think of with a good video.” (20:23) - Joel "You're not just competing against other people on LinkedIn, you're competing against Instagram, Snapchat, YouTube, Hulu, Netflix, the news, the newspaper, every podcast in the world. Everybody's competing for that same thing." (39:29) - Joel “At the end of the day, if you just do trending stuff all the time, you're never gonna really create like something that people recognize because it's just they're following the trend. They're not following you.” (46:58) - Joel "having a point of view is so important. And whatever the point of view is, a point of view is what's going to get the conversation going." (48:45) - Joel Resources Joel: Joel's Company Website: https://www.therealestrecruiter.com/ Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/joellalgee/ The_realest_recruiter https://www.youtube.com/@Therealestrecruiter https://www.instagram.com/the_realestrecruiter/ https://twitter.com/Humanheadhunter Billy Samoa https://www.instagram.com/billysamoa/ https://www.youtube.com/@BillySamoa https://www.linkedin.com/in/billysamoa/ This is an encore episode and was originally published on February 2, 2024 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Hey photography friends! This week we're sitting down with the amazing Vanessa Joy, who's juggling life as a photographer in both Austin and the NYC area while raising a family and teaching others how to rock their photo businesses. Vanessa gets real about her journey from high school darkroom days to building a thriving multi-genre photography career. She shares some seriously game-changing insights on how she's managed to avoid burnout (even while traveling 150 days last year!), create meaningful boundaries, and build the financial freedom that lets her work and travel on her own terms.In this heart-to-heart conversation, Vanessa dishes on:How she turned a personal trip to Africa into a sponsored opportunity (so smart!)Her candid approach to balancing family life with entrepreneurshipWhy saying "no" has become her superpower for sustainabilityHer clever strategies for creating passive income through real estate and education (check out her website here!)Hit that play button to grab all of Vanessa's wisdom and don't forget to check out her Instagram for the "Joy Tools" guide she mentioned! Trust me, your work-life balance will thank you!⚖️ Extra thankful for our May podcast sponsor - The Contract Shop If a storm damaged your home, you'd have insurance to cover it. But what about protecting your business from legal storms?The Contract Shop is your one stop shop for contracts, terms and conditions, privacy policies, LLC set up, and trademark support. The Contract Shop has everything photographers need to build a legally sound business.Save 30% off your first purchase from The Contract Shop. ___________________________________________________________________________ The doors to the Fully Booked Method open again on July 15th! Join the waitlist for all the details and to get first dibs on one of the spots. Go from inconsistent photography bookings and marketing overwhelm to a streamlined business with a calendar full of dream clients—giving you predictable income, creative fulfillment, and the freedom to build a photography career on your terms.It's time to go from stressed out to booked out!!
In this episode, I challenge the common belief that you need to niche down to succeed. Many creatives look at artists like Post Malone, who seamlessly transitions across genres, and assume they can do the same. But the reality is, these people mastered one thing before expanding. I discuss why copying someone's success without understanding their journey is a mistake and why intentional practice and depth of knowledge are key. We explore the concept of the T-shaped skill set, the risks of diversifying too soon, and how social media growth favors consistency. If you've ever struggled with whether to specialize or go broad, this episode is for you.Timestamps:(00:00) - The problem with copying success(00:39) - Post Malone's career evolution(02:12) - Why success leaves clues(03:35) - Finding your starting point(04:17) - The power of deep expertise(05:00) - Social media and consistency(06:15) - The restaurant analogy for niching(07:01) - Outro and call to actionCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
A Note from James I had such a great conversation with my good friend, Sun Yi on his podcast, called Authentic as F*ck, and I felt like I had to say the full name of the podcast because I wanna be authentic. Authenticity is complex, and being yourself isn't always straightforward. With friends, I'm different than when giving a talk or doing a podcast. But authenticity involves knowing who you are in different contexts and what you value. Sun Yi and I explored this in-depth, discussing why being truly authentic often means embracing controversy, taking risks with your content, and understanding that the truth of who you are can change based on the context. Episode Description James speaks with Sun Yi, host of Authentic as F*ck, about the nuances of personal branding, vulnerability, and authenticity. This candid conversation explores why true authenticity can lead to both rejection and opportunity, emphasizing the importance of publishing ideas that genuinely scare you. Listeners will learn why radical openness about successes and failures can be both costly and rewarding, and how traditional perspectives on success and failure often overlook essential lessons about humility and resilience. What You'll Learn: How authenticity can lead to controversy but also open new doors. Why publishing content that genuinely scares you is crucial for meaningful impact. The surprising benefits—and real costs—of being fully transparent about your experiences. How traditional ideas about success and failure can be misleading. Understanding the complexities behind creating content that truly resonates and why some content unexpectedly goes viral. Timestamped Chapters [00:00] Introduction to Authenticity and Personal Branding [01:10] The Complexity of Being Yourself [02:35] Building a Personal Brand Naturally [04:06] The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity [05:14] Challenges of Being Authentic [08:29] Niching Down vs. Broad Interests [10:29] Controversial Opinions and Their Impact [18:32] The New York City Article Controversy [23:23] Handling Negative Reactions [37:02] The Value of Authentic Writing [41:03] Deep Dive into Favorite Authors [41:55] Balancing Podcast Topics and Growth [45:17] Understanding Success and Failure [45:22] The Importance of Networking [47:50] Testing Business Ideas [50:56] Learning from Failure [56:16] The Role of Humility in Success [01:00:21] The Journey to Becoming a Writer [01:13:09] The Dot-Com Boom and Bust [01:14:58] Reflecting on the Early Days of Web Design [01:15:47] The Evolution and Current State of AI [01:17:59] AI's Role in Creative Fields [01:32:52] The Future of AI in Healthcare and Other Industries [01:40:18] Political Polarization and Historical Context [01:42:32] Closing Thoughts and Optimism for the Future Additional Resources: Sun Yi's Podcast: Authentic as Fuck Khan Academy Coursera – Online Education Platform