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Merry Christmas Eve everyone!
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family! This episode features Favour Obasi-ike offering a holiday greeting to his precious listeners. This captures a seasonal well-wish intended to convey warmth and spiritual favor during the winter festivities. By using a traditional festive salutation, Favour aims to establish a positive connection with you, the listener. The message is succinct and celebratory, focusing entirely on a Christian blessing associated with the Christmas season. This simple piece of media serves as a sincere gesture of goodwill and holiday cheer.Thank you for listening to the We Don't PLAY™️ Podcast Show! God bless you!-------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Booking A Discovery Call | Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike here>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast-------------------------------------------------------------------------See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Want ChatGPT to start recommending you and your content? In this video, I break down exactly how I've optimized my brand, website, and content to drive thousands of visitors from AI tools like ChatGPT. Essentially, how to start with "AEO", which stands for "answer engine optimization." This is AI's version of SEO. You'll learn how to structure your messaging, create answer-oriented content across platforms, and build leadership that AI recognizes and recommends.LINKS MENTIONED: Free ChatGPT AEO Breakdown: https://stephaniekase.com/chatgptseoFree YouTube Class: http://stephaniekase.com/youtubeclassytYouTube for Business Course Sales Page: https://stephaniekase.com/youtubeforbusinessWATCH THIS ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/jWBAgUwFtIoSHOWNOTES: https://wp.me/p5UFK9-6wh
Get a FREE Posing eBook from The Portrait System here: https://the-portrait-system.lpages.co/podcast-pose-funnel/Today, on The Portrait System Podcast, our guest is portrait & lifestyle photographer Damien Carter. Listen in as host Nikki Closser interviews Damien about how he built his business for success in less than a year after being laid off from his full-time job. Damien tells us all about how he keeps his prices high and clients coming back. If you're looking for inspiration this week, then this episode is for you!PODCAST LISTENER SPECIAL!! If you want to get started with the Portrait System, get a special discount using code “POD7” to get one month access for just $7 here https://theportraitsystem.com/pricing/IG https://www.instagram.com/theportraitsystem/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/theportraitsystemSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this episode, we sit down with a top entrepreneur and filmmaker Stewart Cohen, an expert and business owner of nearly 20 years, to unpack how to build genuine credibility and lasting success in an age of overwhelming digital noise ("cyber noise").Stewart shares timeless principles from his entrepreneurial journey, shaped by a family legacy of business ownership, and contrasts the foundational strategies of the past with the unique challenges of today.Stewart argues that in a world where “social media lies, websites lie,” the most valuable currency is in-person credibility. He provides a masterclass in turning client relationships into your most powerful marketing engine and explains why protecting your audience's attention is the ultimate business discipline.
In this episode, Jon G. Sanchez and Jason Gaunt discuss the significant market volatility caused by the expiration of $5 trillion in options. They explore the implications of this volatility for investors and the importance of contrarian signals in the market. The conversation then shifts to practical advice for small business owners, focusing on last-minute tax strategies and maximizing retirement contributions. The hosts emphasize the benefits of solo 401k plans, the strategic hiring of family members, and the importance of entity structure for tax savings. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights for navigating both market fluctuations and year-end financial planning.Chapters00:00 Market Volatility and Options Expiration04:49 Market Recap and Key Stock Movements11:04 Pharmaceutical Price Reductions and Market Impact15:52 The Impact of Global Pricing on U.S. Consumers17:39 Navigating Small Business Strategies17:47 Maximizing Retirement Contributions for Small Businesses28:34 Entity Structure Checkup for Tax Efficiency32:41 Disclaimer
Get a FREE Posing eBook from The Portrait System here: https://the-portrait-system.lpages.co/podcast-pose-funnel/On today's special re-release of The Portrait System Podcast, our guest is portrait photographer Ivan Weiss. Listen in as host Nikki Closser interviews Ivan about his process, his business and how he infuses creativity and uniqueness into his headshot sessions. If you're looking for inspiration this week, then this episode is for you!PODCAST LISTENER SPECIAL!! If you want to get started with the Portrait System, get a special discount using code “POD7” to get one month access for just $7 here https://theportraitsystem.com/pricing/IG https://www.instagram.com/theportraitsystem/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/theportraitsystemSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
How to Write Catchy Titles, Descriptions, and High-Impact Headlines for your websites, email marketing, social media marketing, Pinterest SEO, and more with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.Episode Summary:In this comprehensive episode + guide on crafting effective digital headlines, titles, and descriptions to boost online engagement. The speaker emphasizes that metadata acts as the essential context for content, serving as the primary factor that drives click-through rates across platforms like Google, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Strategic advice includes maintaining a title length of approximately 55 to 65 characters to avoid text truncation while maximizing visual impact. I also recommend using odd numbers, brackets, and power words to leverage psychological triggers that improve visibility and user trust. Finally, the discussion frames intentional copywriting as a vital tool for business owners to transform passive web traffic into active conversions and long-term brand authority.In high-level digital strategy, titles, descriptions, and headlines are not merely decorative—they serve as the essential "key frames" of metadata. This content architecture bridges the gap between raw information and audience discovery by providing the necessary context (Author, Host, Duration, and Intent) that search algorithms require to categorize an asset. By transforming raw content into searchable, high-value assets, a strategist ensures that the brand is prioritized within the user's search journey.Favour emphasizes that structured delivery and architectural integrity correlate directly to business results. If a title fails to establish immediate relevance, the conversion path is broken before it begins. Success in the current landscape requires a commitment to iterative improvement—ensuring the "next version" of a title or metadata set is systematically optimized based on data rather than intuition. This log details the tactical framework used by Favour, currently ranked #2 (We Don't PLAY!) on the FeedSpot Top 100 Marketing Podcasts (trailing only Gary Vaynerchuk), to drive visibility across SEO, PPC, and email ecosystems.Deep Dive: The Quantitative Science of Click-Through Rates (CTR)To maximize ROI, content creators must move beyond "gut feeling" and toward research-backed optimization. Using industry benchmarks from Orbit Media and Moz, we can calibrate headlines to meet the psychological triggers that drive user action.-------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast-------------------------------------------------------------------------Timestamps[00:00] Catchy Titles vs. Structure; Metadata as the "Context to the Content."[05:00] The 600-Pixel Rule; Pixel Weight (W vs. l); The 55-Character Sweet Spot.[10:00] Moz Study Analysis; Numbers in Headlines; Why Odd Numbers Win; Brackets and Transparency.[15:00] Power Words and Psychological Triggering; Tool Highlight: CapitalizeMyTitle.[20:00] Platform Evolution: Instagram as TV; LinkedIn SEO and the One-Time URL Edit Rule.[25:00] Case Study: Ranking #2 on FeedSpot; The Math of the 12-Hour Masterclass; Call to Action.Effective content strategy requires tracking the flow of information to ensure "next-version" improvements. The following log segments the Masterclass into thematic chapters, providing the "So What?" factor for each strategic shift.Chapters:Chapter 1: The Metadata Framework [00:00 - 10:00] Context vs. Content. This segment establishes that metadata is the "context" (attributes like host and duration) that allows users to value an asset before engaging. Without these key frames, even high-quality content remains invisible to search engines and the "Exact Searcher Intent."Chapter 2: The Utility of Catchy Copy [10:00 - 18:00] Visibility Across the Funnel. Effective copy acts as the primary catalyst for Click-Through Rates (CTR) across SEO, LinkedIn, and Email. The speaker frames catchy titles as functional tools that pre-condition the audience for engagement and conversion.Chapter 3: The Physics of the Pixel [18:00 - 25:00] Typography Weight. Moving beyond character counts, this chapter introduces the 600-pixel display limit. Strategists must account for the "weight" of individual characters (e.g., a capital "W" vs. a lowercase "l") to prevent truncation and maintain a professional aesthetic on the SERP (Search Engine Results Page).Chapter 4: The Psychology of Numbers [25:00 - 35:00] Time-Value Perception. This section evaluates how numbers (specifically odd numbers) impact user psychology. The "So What?" factor is the "minute-per-item" rule: users subconsciously equate the number of items in a title to the minutes they must invest (e.g., 10 ways = 10 minutes), directly influencing the decision to click.Chapter 5: Platform Evolution [35:00 - 45:00] Ecosystem Logic. The speaker analyzes Instagram's transition to "TV-style" content and LinkedIn's rigid SEO URL logic. The key takeaway is the importance of "Exact Title Match" to meet user intent while navigating platform-specific constraints like DM automation and hashtag limits.Chapter 6: The Podcasting Marathon [45:00 - End] The Milestone Logic. Highlighting the "eighth-episode hurdle" where 500,000 creators quit annually, the speaker discusses his 600-episode milestone and the necessity of IAB Tech Lab compliance. Long-term distribution success is a result of persistence and technical "due diligence."High-Value Quotes"Metadata... that's just another way of saying how do we get context out of this content. Those are attributes... that's the context to the content." - Favour Obasi-ike"A capital W has more weight than a small w. A capital L has more weight than a small l... that weight they carry is a pixel size digitally.""If somebody clicks and finds your content valuable, resourceful, accurate, and responsive, then anything that you're going to do from SEO to PPC ads... you're able to use consistently."Resources:Companies Passing Tech Lab Compliance Programs | Podcast Compliance DirectoriesHeadline Analyzer Tool: Write Better Headlines | Write Better Headlines HereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Angela sits down with Robyn Anderson, CEO of Jam AI, to demystify AI for small business owners and professionals with busy brains. Robyn explains what AI and large language models like ChatGPT and Gemini actually are, how to use Custom GPTs as "virtual employees" for sales and marketing, and why generative engine optimization (GEO) is the new SEO. She shares practical tools (including website builders, branding helpers, and voice-to-text productivity apps), plus her own ADHD-friendly routines for staying focused, managing time, and avoiding AI rabbit holes. If you've been curious about using AI to grow your business—but feel overwhelmed—this conversation will show you where to start and how to make AI work for you.
In this fast-paced episode of the "We Don't PLAY!™️" podcast, host Favour Obasi-ike and business colleague, Pierre DeBois deliver a no-fluff, actionable guide to SEO for beginners and business owners. We cut through the noise and focus on two powerful, accessible strategies: decoding user intent and leveraging seasonal trends. Learn why long-tail keywords beat high-volume searches, how SEO is the essential engine for AI-powered search, and how to use free tools to plan content that converts.Mastering SEO Strategies for Beginners: Search Intent and Keyword Trends Guide with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------This is your playbook for making digital visibility simple, strategic, and effective.Episode Timestamps[00:00:00] IntroductionFavour opens the show with the podcast's mission to help you "listen, live, learn, and earn," framing this episode as a practical SEO starter kit.[00:01:30] Strategy 1: The Power of Intentional SearchesWhy longer, specific queries like "comfortable shoes for Christmas" signal a buyer ready to act, and how to create content that meets this precise need. We break down the user's journey through the three layers of the web.[00:06:10] How SEO Gets Your Content FoundDemystifying crawling, indexing, and visibility. We explain why SEO is your website's foundational engine and how it powers modern AI search tools, not the other way around. Includes tips on using LinkedIn for backlinks.[00:10:45] Strategy 2: Capitalizing on TrendsUsing the "fruit season" metaphor, we show how to use tools like Google Trends to identify keyword cycles. Learn how to plan content 2-3 months ahead to build authority and rank #1 when the trend peaks.[00:15:30] Guest Perspective: Pierre on Intent and the Rise of AEOPierre clarifies that Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) is an evolution of SEO, not a replacement. He breaks down intent with an "apple pie" analogy and stresses the need to anticipate user questions in all content.[00:20:15] Practical Example: Searching for "Apple Pie" on an AI Engine (DeepSeek)A live demo using DeepSeek shows how AI responds to layered intent—from a general recipe search to "links please" for store locators—highlighting why your website needs specific, indexable pages.[00:24:00] Pierre's Advice: SEO is Not "Set and Forget"Why you must be ready to pivot. Pierre shares a personal story of how analytics revealed his true audience, forcing a complete strategy shift, and why the quiet season is perfect for planning.[00:26:45] Using Analytics to Refine Your StrategyA rundown of free tools (Google Search Console, Microsoft Clarity, etc.) and how to use data on user devices and browsers to craft hyper-relevant marketing that makes "sense" and "cents."[00:30:15] Final Actionable Advice & Wrap-UpYour clear next steps: Find your audience's questions, check them against trends, create content, and distribute it where your community lives. Favor encourages you to take the leap and start.Key Quotes:"SEO is not a set and forget it type activity. It's making adjustments over time because the technology behind it may be changing just enough to create new opportunities that you may want to take advantage of." - Pierre"You can speak without talking, but you can't think without words." - Myron Golden (quoted by Favor)Mentioned Tools & Resources: Google Trends, AnswerThePublic, SparkToro, DeepSeek, Google Search Console, LinkedIn, and more.Subscribe to "We Don't PLAY!™️" for more straight-talking marketing strategies to grow your business today!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Send us a textDo you really have your tax planning handled? The thing is, many business owners are making a critical mistake that will become even more expensive by 2026.In this episode, Mike Jesowshek, CPA, sits down with Mark J. Kohler to expose the biggest tax planning failure business owners make. Confusing knowing strategies with actually applying them. Mark explains why tax savings disappear at the implementation level, how poor execution creates long-term consequences, and why retirement accounts are one of the most overlooked areas where this mistake shows up.
Website Marketing vs. SEO Marketing: The Complete Business Essentials Guide with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This episode demystifies the relationship between website marketing and Search Engine Optimization (SEO), clarifying the critical distinction between the two. The discussion frames website marketing as the broad, all-encompassing "ecosystem" of a brand's online presence, including email, social media, and advertising. In contrast, SEO is presented as the tactical, high-performance "engine" that powers a website's visibility and drives targeted traffic within that ecosystem. Through foundational principles, practical strategies, and live consultations with business owners, this guide provides a comprehensive framework for building a powerful and effective digital identity.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Key Takeaways• Website Marketing is the Ecosystem, SEO is the Engine: Website marketing is the entire universe of your online activities, from email campaigns to social media posts. SEO is the specific, technical practice of optimizing your website to be found by search engines, giving your marketing efforts direction and power.• Your Website is Your Digital Identity: A website is more than a link or a digital storefront; it is the central hub for establishing your brand's credibility, trustworthiness, and authority, creating a lasting experience for both new and returning visitors.• Messaging Precedes Marketing: The effectiveness of any marketing tactic hinges on compelling messaging that connects with customer psychology. As demonstrated with the "strawberry" example, great marketing shifts a customer's mindset from a simple "need" to an emotional "want."• Storytelling Sells, Facts Only Tell: To convert visitors into customers, product descriptions must go beyond listing features and instead create an emotional connection. As speaker Mo advises:• Technical Health is Non-Negotiable: A website's foundational health depends on more than just load speed and hosting. Consistently publishing fresh content is critical because every update creates a new "tokenized" copy for search engines to crawl. A dormant site gives search engines no reason to return, while an active site signals relevance and forces re-evaluation, directly impacting rankings.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Detailed Episode Notes1. Defining the Landscape: Website Marketing vs. SEOTo build a successful online presence, it is vital to distinguish between the overarching platform of website marketing and the specific tactics of SEO. Website marketing represents your brand's total visibility and communication channels online. SEO, a critical component within that framework, is the deliberate set of actions taken to ensure your website is discovered by the right audience at the right time. Understanding this difference is the first step toward a coherent and effective digital strategy.Contrasting Key ConceptsWebsite Marketing (The Ecosystem)The Truck and Engine AnalogyThe relationship between these two concepts can be understood through a simple yet powerful analogy presented during the episode:"Think of your website like a truck. Website marketing is the truck itself—it exists, it's present, and it's visible. SEO is the engine that actually moves the truck forward, giving it the power, speed, and direction it needs to reach its destination."With these foundational definitions established, it's clear that the website itself serves as the strategic center of all marketing efforts.2. The Strategic Hub: Your Website's Core FunctionYour website is your most critical digital asset. It is the definitive online destination where you control the narrative and build direct relationships with your audience. Far more than just a place for transactions, it is the central hub for establishing trust, demonstrating expertise, and solidifying a brand identity that resonates with visitors long after they leave.The Four Pillars of a Trustworthy WebsiteFor a website to be effective, it must embody four key qualities for every visitor:1. Credible: The information is accurate, professional, and demonstrates authority.2. Resourceful: It provides value and answers the questions your audience is asking.3. Trustworthy: The site is secure, transparent, and operates with integrity.4. Accessible: It is easy to navigate and available to all users.Analyzing Visitor BehaviorEvery website serves two primary types of visitors: new visitors and returning visitors. Understanding their distinct behaviors through analytics is crucial for optimization. With over 1.1 billion websites online, simply existing is not enough; your site must be engineered to effectively engage both audiences and guide them toward a desired action.Key Website ComponentsA modern website is a multimedia platform composed of various elements that search engines index and users engage with:• Text (including body copy, headlines, and policies)• Images (with descriptive alt text for accessibility and SEO)• Audio (e.g., MP3 files for podcasts or sound clips)• Video (e.g., MP4 files for tutorials or product showcases)• Documents (e.g., PDFs for white papers or downloadable guides)A well-structured website, rich with these components, provides the perfect foundation for the tactical work of SEO to drive qualified traffic.3. Tactical Deep Dive: Activating Your SEOSEO is the disciplined practice of aligning your website's structure and content with the specific words and phrases your target audience uses in search engines like Google. It is not about tricking algorithms but about creating a valuable and relevant experience that naturally earns high visibility. This requires a consistent content engine, especially since blogs have a shelf life of 24 months. A single post can provide SEO value for up to two years, demonstrating the long-term ROI of a strategic content plan.The Content Creation EngineGenerating traffic starts with a simple question-and-answer flow. How do you generate traffic? By kickstarting the engine. How do you kickstart the engine? By creating content. How do you create effective content? By building links through publishing valuable posts like blogs, landing pages, and product pages.Uncovering SEO OpportunitiesA live demonstration in the episode revealed how to find high-intent keywords directly from Google's search suggestions—a reflection of real, frequent user queries.The strategic takeaway is clear: each of these suggestions represents a distinct user need. A single list of 10 terms can be transformed into 10 to 50 unique media assets, including blog posts, email newsletters, social media updates, and even podcast episodes. This moves SEO from theory to a practical, content-driven reality.4. Marketing in Action: Live Business ConsultationsApplying marketing theory to real-world businesses is the fastest path to clarity. This section analyzes the specific, actionable advice given to two entrepreneurs, providing a blueprint for any product-based business seeking to translate online presence into measurable results.5. Tools & Resources MentionedThe selection of a tool, particularly for email marketing, is not just a matter of features but also of technical performance. As discussed in the episode, platforms with strong server infrastructure (like Flodesk's partnership with Amazon SES) can significantly impact email deliverability, a key component of the overall marketing ecosystem.• AI Idea Generation: ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, DeepSeek, Grok• Email Marketing Platforms: Constant Contact, Mailchimp, Flodesk (preferred), Aweber, Kit, Brevo• Website Hosting: GoDaddy, BlueHost, Hostinger, SiteGround• Website Builders: Webador• Social & Content Platforms: Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Clubhouse• E-commerce: AmazonSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Get a FREE Posing eBook from The Portrait System here: https://the-portrait-system.lpages.co/podcast-pose-funnel/Today, we have a very special re-release of the Portrait System Podcast! In this episode, host Nikki Closser interviews photographer/author/activist and body image expert Teri Hofford, who tells us about how she managed to expand her brand with body positivity. Listen in as Teri shares the ups and downs of her journey, how her own relation to body image has changed through the years, and how she now spreads body positivity to people around the world. If you're looking for an uplifting and inspiring conversation, then this podcast episode is for you!PODCAST LISTENER SPECIAL!! If you want to get started with the Portrait System, get a special discount using code “POD7” to get one month access for just $7 here https://theportraitsystem.com/pricing/IG https://www.instagram.com/theportraitsystem/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/theportraitsystemSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Have you ever felt that deep longing to step away from your practice—not for a long weekend or a quick vacation, but for a real pause? A stretch of time where you can rest, reset, and reconnect with yourself outside of the constant giving that comes with this work? That's exactly what Maegan Megginson and I explore in today's episode. Why Sabbaticals Matter—Beyond “Time Off” Most of us only hear the word sabbatical in academic circles, but as Maegan reminds us, its root is “Sabbath”—rest. Somewhere along the way, rest became another productivity tool, something to “use well” rather than simply experience. As therapists and practice owners, we need something different. A true sabbatical isn't for catching up on house projects or writing endless to-do lists—it's about completely reimagining your relationship with time, worth, and spaciousness. Transforming Your Relationship with Time: The Power of Sabbaticals for Therapists (00:06:57) The 4 Types of Sabbaticals for Small Business Owners (00:12:12) Healing & Self-Discovery During Time Away (00:17:43) Productivity Culture and Its Roots (00:20:38) Business Challenges to Taking a Sabbatical (00:25:18) Adjusting Business Systems to Integrate a Transformative Experience (00:29:45) Modeling Self-Care for Others (00:35:24) Collective Sabbatical for Conscious Shifts (00:36:45) Sabbatical Journey and Integration (00:40:27) Sabbatical School & Financial Freedom Why This Feels So Hard—And So Important Why This Feels So Hard—And So Important I know the fears that come up, because I've had them too: “My practice will fall apart.” “Clients will leave.” “I can't afford a break.” “People will judge me.” But Maegan and I both believe this wholeheartedly: your business can handle you stepping away for four weeks—and you can handle it too. Preparing your practice for your absence actually builds strength and resilience into your systems. And in truth, four weeks is a tiny blip in your clients' lives. For many of them, it may even model something deeply healing. Sabbaticals as an Act of Rebellion Stepping back isn't indulgent—it's radical. It pushes against the cultural message that your worth depends on your output. It shows your clients, your colleagues, your kids, and the people who look up to you that it's possible to reclaim time, energy, and humanity in a world that constantly asks for more. Your rest creates ripple effects. When you care for yourself, you give others permission to imagine a different way too. This conversation reminded me just how essential meaningful time away is—not only for our health and longevity, but for the stability of our businesses and the well-being of the communities we support. If you're feeling stretched thin, burnt out, or disconnected from yourself, this might be the moment to gently ask: What do I truly need right now? And… What might become possible if I gave myself four full weeks to breathe? Ready to Improve your Business Money Skills? Are you a Solo Private Practice Owner? I made this course just for you: Money Skills for Therapists. My signature course has been carefully designed to take therapists from money confusion, shame, and uncertainty – to calm and confidence. In this course I give you everything you need to create financial peace of mind as a therapist in solo private practice. Want to learn more? Click here to register for my...
Avoiding your numbers? This episode is your gentle but honest financial reset. Lauren Tilden sits down with Leah McCool of Orca Accounting to break down bookkeeping basics, common mistakes, and how understanding your numbers can actually feel empowering—not scary. If you want a calmer, clearer, more sustainable business (without drowning in spreadsheets), this is a must-listen.NEXT EPISODE→ It's Time to Pay Yourself | Book Club | ‘Profit First' by Mike Michalowicz | 109THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR→ Special Xero offer: Get 90% off for 6 months using this link. Terms and conditions apply.SHOW NOTES→ 319: The Full Show Notes PageFROM LEAH→ The Bookkeeping Starter Pack→ Leah's website→ InstagramWHEN YOU'RE READY
Pinterest Advertising Campaigns: Image, Video, Carousel, Shopping Catalog, Leads & Quiz Strategy with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.Pinterest for business advertising, emphasizing its power as a visual search engine rather than a traditional social media platform. Favour highlights that Pinterest users exhibit a higher purchasing power and are in a planning mindset, making their minimal time spent on the platform highly intentional for conversions compared to engagement-focused sites like TikTok or Facebook. Practical advice is offered on running various ad types—including image, video, carousel, catalog, and lead/quiz ads—along with technical specifications and the importance of claiming a website to utilize Pinterest's tagging system for superior analytics and targeting, such as act-alike audiences and zip code campaigns.Ultimately, we position Pinterest advertising as a valuable, data-driven strategy for businesses seeking a high return on time and investment.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Why 90 Minutes a Month on Pinterest Beats 35 Hours on TikTokIntroduction: The Hidden Power of the Internet's Digital Vision BoardWhen you think of Pinterest, what comes to mind? For many, it's a digital scrapbook for wedding ideas, home decor inspiration, and tonight's dinner recipe. But what if this familiar facade conceals one of the most misunderstood and powerful marketing engines online? Behind the vision boards and DIY projects lies a platform built not on fleeting attention, but on deliberate intention.This episode reveals five surprising truths about Pinterest that defy conventional social media wisdom and highlight its unique, untapped value for businesses and marketers.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------1. The 90-Minute Paradox: Why Less Time on Platform Means More for BusinessIt's a counter-intuitive finding that stops most marketers in their tracks: Pinterest users spend significantly less time on the platform than users of other major networks.According to recent data, the average user spends just 1 hour and 31 minutes per month on Pinterest. Compare that to the time sinks of other platforms:• TikTok: 35 hours per month• Facebook: 29 hours per month• Instagram: 15 hours per monthThis isn't a sign of low engagement; it's a signal of high-intent, purposeful activity. Breaking it down, 91 minutes a month averages to just about 3 minutes per day. Users aren't there to endlessly scroll. In those three minutes, a user is on a mission: they might spend 30 seconds looking for an idea, a minute to find the right one, and the next minute to affirm it, save it for later, or click through to act on it immediately. This focused, goal-oriented behavior means every minute is packed with commercial intent."So if you're planning on Pinterest and you're spending less than 2 hours to be on a platform that's going to give you maximum return on your time and investment, it's worth it than spend 35 hours to do the same thing..."2. The Audience Isn't Just Browsing—They're Planning and They Have Buying PowerThe fundamental difference between Pinterest and other platforms is user mindset. While other networks thrive on a culture of passive "swiping," Pinterest is the go-to destination for active "planning." Users are there with the specific intention of preparing for something—whether it's an event, a book, a wedding, a shoe, a color, or a tip—which makes them uniquely receptive to relevant brand content and advertising.This high-intent audience also has significant financial leverage:• Approximately 45% of Pinterest users have an annual household income of at least $150,000.• Their purchasing power is 5% to 38% higher than on other social platforms.This combination of forward-looking intent and disposable income creates an environment where ads are not an interruption but a welcome part of the discovery process."It tells you that Pinterest is not a place that people are going to swipe. They're going there to plan. So when they're going there to plan, they're searching with the intention of purchasing something or planning for something."3. Forget "Lookalikes," Pinterest Is About "Actalikes"Most digital advertisers are familiar with "lookalike audiences"—the targeting method used by platforms like Meta to find users who share demographic traits with an existing customer base. Pinterest offers a more powerful alternative: the "actalike audience."An actalike audience is a group of users targeted based on their active, intentional behaviors. These are users who are thinking, planning, processing, doing, and responding. Rather than targeting people who simply look like your customers, you target people who act like them.This is a critical distinction. An actalike audience is inherently composed of users with proven intent and behavioral patterns that align with conversion. It targets an active mindset, not just a passive profile, suggesting a much higher probability of a positive outcome for advertisers.4. Your Content's Lifespan: A Marathon, Not a SprintThe ephemeral nature of social media content is a constant challenge for marketers. A post that takes hours to create can disappear from feeds in a matter of hours. Pinterest operates on a completely different timeline.The lifespan of content on Pinterest presents a stark contrast to its social media counterparts:• Pinterest Pin: 3.5 to 5 months• Instagram Post: 19 to 72 hoursContent on Pinterest functions less like a fleeting post and more like a long-term asset. Each pin acts as a durable entry point to your brand, continuing to drive traffic, discovery, and conversions for months on end. This turns content creation from a short-term sprint into a sustainable, long-term investment with compounding returns, much like traditional SEO.5. The Surprising Truth About Media OwnershipOn platforms like Instagram and TikTok, you are a perpetual tenant. You build your presence on rented land, but you never truly own your content or the space it occupies. Pinterest offers a unique and powerful path to digital property ownership.When you claim your website on Pinterest, you establish 100% ownership of your media on the platform. This is made possible by the Pinterest Tag—a piece of code on your website that connects your property to the platform, tracks conversions, and solidifies your ownership. This transforms your Pinterest business account from a simple social profile into a claimed media asset.The platform even provides a powerful tool to leverage this ownership. You can connect your Instagram business account and pull the last 365 days of content directly onto Pinterest. Think about the implications: you didn't own your content on Instagram, but now you have Instagram's content building an owned asset on Pinterest, all because you've claimed your website as a digital property."You don't own 100% of your media on Instagram... with Pinterest it's a beautiful place because when you claim your Pinterest account and you claim your website on Pinterest. What you've technically done is that you've claimed a property on an asset that you don't own but now you own..."--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Conclusion: Rethinking Attention vs. IntentionFor years, the digital marketing world has been obsessed with the attention economy—a relentless race for more screen time, more views, and more hours spent scrolling. Pinterest proves that there is a more valuable currency: intention.Its true power lies not in capturing endless hours of passive attention, but in connecting with a high-value audience during their most decisive planning and purchasing moments. The platform's unique combination of high intent, powerful demographics, action-based targeting, and content longevity makes it an unparalleled tool for businesses.As you plan your next marketing strategy, ask yourself this: What could your business achieve if you focused less on the attention economy and more on the intention economy?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
AI is reshaping the business world — but for small business owners, the biggest danger isn't the technology itself. It's adopting it without truly understanding your processes.In this episode of The Agent of Wealth, co-host John Williams is joined by David Quick — IT veteran, founder of Total Cover IT, and author of Winning with Tech in the Age of AI. David shares insights from 25 years in technology and business, revealing how small businesses can leverage AI safely, strategically, and profitably.In this episode, you will learn:Why AI won't fix a broken process — it will amplify it.The smartest (and safest) ways small businesses can begin using AI today.How cybersecurity threats are evolving as hackers also adopt AI — and how to protect your business.The biggest tech mistakes small businesses make, and how to avoid shiny-object syndrome.And more!Tune in for a grounded, practical look at where AI is headed — and what business owners can do now to stay efficient, secure, and competitive.Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | totalcoverit.com |totalcoverit.com/winningwithtech | totalcoverit.com/meetdavidquick | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory CallWant to be a guest on The Agent of Wealth? Send Marc Bautis a message on PodMatch, here: https://tinyurl.com/mt4z6ywc
Send us a textIn this raw and honest episode of Small Business Survival Conversations, Anna Steinfest is joined by two of her longtime friends and fellow entrepreneurs — Clinton Smith and Quasan Shaw. Together, they've walked through the ups and downs of building businesses, and today, they're sharing the hard truths small business owners need to hear as we head into 2026.This isn't theory — it's real talk from three people who've supported each other through setbacks, growth, and reinvention. And now, they're here to share what they've learned with you.You'll hear insights on:What to stop doing immediately in your businessHow to set smarter, burnout-proof goalsThe mindset shifts that keep you moving through hard seasonsPractical ways to cut costs, pivot fast, and prepare for uncertaintyWhether you're just trying to survive or looking to scale in 2026, this episode is your playbook — rooted in truth, trust, and a shared mission to help small business owners succeed. No fluff. Just real advice from real entrepreneurs who've been where you are. #SmallBusinessTips #EntrepreneurLife #BusinessGrowth #2026BusinessPlanning#2026Goals #FutureProofYourBusiness
Send us a textIf you're a new business owner, you've probably wondered if you are doing any of this correctly.Should you get an LLC? Do you file a Schedule C? Can you hire your kids? Does a home office hurt you when you sell your house?In this episode, Mike walks through real questions from listeners and gives clear answers to the tax issues that confuse most new entrepreneurs. From 1099 income and deductions to home office rules, the Augusta Rule, and hiring your kids, this Q&A hits the topics every early-stage owner struggles with.
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, Ted McLyman discusses the importance of understanding money behavior in real estate. He emphasizes that how we behave with money is more crucial than our knowledge of it. Ted shares insights from his extensive background in finance and behavioral science, explaining how emotions and social influences impact financial decisions. He provides strategies for effective money management and highlights the significance of building strong relationships in the real estate industry. The conversation concludes with resources for further learning and personal development in financial behavior. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true 'white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a "mini-mastermind" with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming "Retreat", either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas "Big H Ranch"? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
In this episode, Melissa breaks down one of the most misunderstood concepts in small business growth: organizational design. If you've ever wondered why your team feels stretched thin, why certain roles aren't “working out,” or why it's so hard to hire strategically this conversation is your roadmap.Small businesses often grow faster than their internal structures, and that leads to confusion, overwhelm, and poor decision-making. Using examples from corporate America, real client scenarios, and her extensive hiring and organizational design experience, Melissa explains how to build a team intentionally instead of reactively.What You'll LearnWhy every business, no matter the industry, has the same core functionsThe difference between generalists and specialistsThe real reason your operations manager is “struggling”How organizational hierarchy actually worksWhy your business may need leaders more than doers as you growThe myth of promoting from withinWhy you, the owner, cannot be your team's only teacher If you aren't certain what roles your business needs:
In this solo livestream episode, Jason Cavness walks small business owners through the HR laws you must follow when you have 49 or fewer employees. Jason draws from more than 30 years of HR experience, 25 years as a retired U.S. Army officer, and over a decade working with startups to explain complicated HR rules in a simple, practical way. Jason covers what federal government actually requires, why most HR mistakes come from confusion rather than bad intent, and how ignoring even one rule can lead to fines, audits, lawsuits, and massive headaches for small business owners. Using real examples, stories from his career, and questions from livestream viewers, Jason breaks down what every employer needs to know: overtime rules, payroll tax obligations, discrimination laws, onboarding requirements, union rules, ADA accommodations, pregnancy protections, military employment rights, OSHA issues, misclassification risks, and more. If you're a founder, small business owner, or early-stage startup leader, this episode gives you a straightforward roadmap for staying compliant and protecting your business before something goes wrong. Topics Discussed • Why HR feels complicated and why it really isn't • The real reason most small businesses get fined • Drug-Free Workplace Act and who it does and does not apply to • Audio monitoring vs video monitoring rules • Polygraph testing and the extremely rare cases where it's allowed • Military employment rights and what employers must provide • Workplace safety, chemical safety sheets, and OSHA basics • Employee rights to discuss wages, schedules, and working conditions • Equal Pay Act misunderstandings and why negotiation habits matter • Minimum wage, overtime, exempt vs non-exempt rules • Why you must pay overtime even when you tell someone not to work it • I-9 verification, E-Verify, and immigration compliance • Payroll tax responsibilities • ADA and reasonable accommodation requirements • Pregnancy discrimination and common employer mistakes • Genetic information discrimination and health insurance issues • Title VII Civil Rights Act protections • LGBTQ workplace protections • Age discrimination rules and why age 40 is the legal threshold • COBRA continuation for companies offering health benefits • Worker misclassification and how calling someone a contractor doesn't make them one • Why unions form and how employers accidentally trigger unionization • What CavnessHR is building to automate HR and prevent these problems Support CavnessHR CavnessHR is building an AI-native HR system for small businesses with 49 or fewer employees automated compliance plus access to a dedicated HR Business Partner. Invest on Wefunder: https://wefunder.com/cavnesshr Download 7 free eBooks based on The Jason Cavness Experience: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ebooks Join the Builders Club: https://www.buildcavnesshr.com/ Connect with Jason Cavness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncavness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasoncavness TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jasoncavness Podcast: https://www.thejasoncavnesssexperience.com
Which Podcast Platform is Best? Podcast Hosting Platforms Vs Podcast Streaming Directories: Research Explained with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This podcast episode provides a comprehensive discussion on starting and growing a podcast, focusing heavily on the selection of the best podcasting platform. A key distinction is made between podcast hosting platforms (like Spotify for Creators, formerly Anchor.fm) and podcast listening platforms (such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon), emphasizing that a host distributes content via an RSS feed to multiple directories.Our conversation underscores that podcasting should be conversation-first, not monetization-first, and advises beginners to start for free to minimize initial costs. Practical advice is offered on SEO for podcasts, including the importance of consistent episode releases, with statistics showing that many podcasters quit early, and also highlights the benefit of choosing an IAB-compliant host for future monetization opportunities through advertising networks.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------4 Surprising Podcasting Truths That Will Save You Time and MoneyThe appeal of starting a podcast has never been stronger. With just a microphone and an idea, it seems you can reach a global audience, build a community, and create a thriving brand. This allure draws thousands of aspiring creators to the medium, all asking the same questions: "How do I start? Which platform is best? How do I make money?"But the common wisdom surrounding podcasting is often a minefield of misleading advice and expensive pitfalls. The path to a successful, sustainable show is paved with counter-intuitive truths that most creators learn the hard way. The reality is that podcasting is less about instant fame and fortune and more about a long-term commitment to a very specific craft.This article will save you time, money, and frustration. We've distilled the most surprising and impactful lessons learned from podcasting experts into four foundational takeaways. Understanding these truths from day one will give you a realistic roadmap and a significant advantage over the thousands who quit before they ever find their voice.1. It's a Conversation, Not a Cash MachineThe most common mistake new podcasters make is focusing on monetization from day one. They get caught up in finding ad sponsors and driving transactions before they've even built an audience. The primary purpose of a podcast, especially in its early stages, must be conversation. When you have a conversation with someone, you don't expect a monetary transaction afterward; you expect an exchange of value.In podcasting, that value is trust, thought leadership, and a genuine relationship with your listeners—all earned over time. Trying to monetize too early feels transactional and inauthentic, pushing potential listeners away before they have a chance to connect. As one expert puts it, the focus must be on the relationship first."if you start a podcast to run ads or to monetize, you you're actually better off starting a business than starting a podcast to monetize."This "conversation first" approach is far more sustainable. It allows you to build a loyal community that values your perspective. Monetization can and will come later, but only after trust has been firmly established. That trust is ultimately a more valuable asset than any early ad revenue.2. Your First Episodes Will Suck (So Don't Buy That $400 Mic)Many aspiring podcasters fall hook, line, and sinker for spending hundreds or even thousands of dollars on expensive equipment before they've produced a single minute of content. This is a costly mistake. I've seen seasoned creators get their best gear for dirt cheap simply by buying it from new podcasters who quit. They'll see someone selling a barely-used $400 SM7B mic for a fraction of the price because the owner never got past a few episodes.Your initial focus shouldn't be on perfect production quality but on practice. The average podcaster quits after just eight episodes. Why? Because that marks about two months of the relentless "record, edit, publish, distribute" cycle. It's the point where initial excitement fades and the reality of the grind sets in. A large upfront investment becomes a huge financial risk when the odds of sticking with it are so low."Good practice cuz your episodes in the beginning suck. It's it's just the way that it is. You know you learn the the quality of your voice. You start learning techniques."So here is the best advice you will get. Start today. Open the voice memo app on your phone, find a quiet place, and record. The goal isn't perfection; it's practice. Once you have a consistent workflow and are confident in your content, then you can consider upgrading your gear.3. A "Published" Podcast That Isn't Distributed Is Just a DraftThis is one of the most critical and misunderstood aspects of podcasting. New creators often believe that once they upload an episode to their podcast hosting platform, their job is done. This is wrong. A hosting platform is simply the "floppy disc" or "external hard drive" where your audio files are stored. It does not automatically put your show in front of listeners.To be heard, your podcast must be on listening platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, and iHeartRadio. The key to this is your RSS feed. Think of it like a website's sitemap; it's the link that allows all the different directories to find and display your content. Submitting this feed to every possible listening platform is a non-negotiable step that many beginners miss.I see this scenario play out every day. Person A publishes 10 episodes but only makes them available on their hosting site. Person B publishes the same 10 episodes but distributes their RSS feed to 20 different listening platforms. Person B has a dramatically higher probability of being discovered because they are accessible where listeners actually are. Experts tell stories of being discovered on niche platforms by international listeners—a listener from the UK finding a show on Castbox while helping a client in Spain. That serendipity only happens with wide distribution."if you don't have a podcast that is accessible then you don't really have a podcast you have I don't know what to call it but it's I would call it a draft because it's not something that is accessible"4. The Sobering Reality: The 2-Year, 100-Episode GauntletPodcasting is not a get-rich-quick scheme; it is a marathon. The statistics on podcasting longevity from Pod Match are stark and should be a reality check for anyone looking for immediate results.On average, it takes 2 years and 100 released episodes for a podcaster to begin seeing real, tangible results, whether that's meaningful audience growth, genuine community engagement, or sustainable monetization opportunities. The commitment required to reach that point is immense, and the attrition rate is staggering. Consider this statistical funnel:• The chance of a new podcast reaching just eight episodes is 45%.• The chance of hitting 50 episodes drops to 12.6%.• The milestone of 100 episodes is achieved by a mere 6% of podcasters.What this data tells us is that success in podcasting is a game of consistency and long-term commitment. It's about showing up week after week, building your catalog, and earning listener trust one episode at a time. The real value you're building over those first 100 episodes is not currency, but trust—an asset that is far more durable and powerful in the long run.Are You Ready to Play the Long Game?Successful podcasting defies the conventional wisdom of quick wins and easy money. The path is paved with a different set of priorities: prioritize genuine conversation over premature monetization, start lean and focus on practice before buying expensive gear, ensure your show is widely distributed, and most importantly, commit to the long and consistent work required to build trust.These truths aren't meant to discourage you, but to empower you with a realistic framework for success. By understanding the real challenges from the outset, you can avoid the common pitfalls that cause so many others to give up. This isn't just about business strategy; it's about legacy. As one creator reflected, "I know one day, God willing, my grandkids, my kids will be able to listen to my voice."Knowing that the real prize is trust built over time—a legacy you can leave behind—what conversation are you willing to commit to for the next 100 episodes?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Send us a textWe hear it all the time: “Stop working in your business and start working on it.” The problem? Almost no one explains what that actually means.In this episode, we break down what salon owners should really be working on when they're not behind the chair and why so many owners step back only to feel stuck, unproductive, or pulled right back into old habits.We talk about why cleaning, hovering, answering phones, and “being available” aren't owner work; how avoiding leadership decisions keeps businesses from growing; and why simply changing your location in the salon doesn't change your role.We explain the four buckets that owners are soley responsible for — money, people, growth, and systems — and how to structure your time so that the work you're doing compounds, removes friction, and creates long-term stability.Your business should serve you, so that you can serve others, and that starts with stepping into the work only you can do as an owner.Key TakeawaysStepping away from the chair without redefining your role can lead to stagnation.Cleaning, answering phones, and hovering are not owner work.Owners avoid leadership decisions by defaulting to “busy” tasks.Pricing must be rooted in math, not emotion or staff opinion.Owners are responsible for money, people, growth, and systems — no one else.Support without direction creates dependency, not growth.Marketing only when slow guarantees continued slow seasons.Systems create freedom, consistency, and trust.Owner work should compound, remove friction, and create clarity.Fifteen focused minutes a day beats zero intentional effort.Timestamps00:00 — Why “working on the business” is rarely explained 02:00 — Opening takes: decision fatigue, snowstorms, and perspective 05:00 — Why pricing must be math-based, not emotional 07:00 — The mistake owners make after stepping away from the chair 09:00 — Changing your role vs changing your location 11:00 — Low-level work vs owner-level work 14:00 — Owner Bucket #1: Money (P&L, break-even, pricing, allocation) 18:00 — Why owners must own pricing decisions 20:00 — Owner Bucket #2: People (hiring, onboarding, training) 23:00 — Apprenticeships, assistants, and development pipelines 26:00 — Support without direction creates dependency 28:00 — Owner Bucket #3: Growth (marketing, branding, partnerships) 31:00 — Why marketing only when slow keeps you slow 33:00 — Owner Bucket #4: Systems and direction 36:00 — SOPs, standards, and consistency 38:00 — Hovering, over-availability, and lack of trust 40:00 — Owner self-development and mentorship 42:00 — How to audit your work: compounding, clarity, friction 44:00 — Weekly action steps + closing thoughtsLiving the Dream with CurveballOn the living the dream with curveball podcast I interview guests that inspire.Listen on: Apple Podcasts Links and Stuff:Our Newsletter Mentoring InquiriesFind more of our things:InstagramHello Hair Pro Website
Molly Hottle from Seattle Chainstitch Massacre joins Jordana.
Send us a textIn this week's Monday Morning Motivation, host Anna Steinfest breaks down the real reason many small business owners feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or stuck—lack of focused energy. Inspired by the “Power of Focus” principles, this episode reveals how distractions quietly drain progress and how even small shifts in focus can lead to massive momentum.Anna explains why multitasking kills results, how your mental energy ratio determines your success, and why your business doesn't need more hours—just more clarity. She closes with three actionable steps every entrepreneur can implement this week to gain control, eliminate energy leaks, and drive forward movement.If you're tired of busy days with little progress, this episode will help you reclaim clarity, strengthen discipline, and build unstoppable momentum in your business. #SmallBusinessSurvival #MondayMorningMotivation #EntrepreneurLife #FocusedEnergy #BusinessMindset #SmallBusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMotivation
Power of Pinterest and Evergreen Content Marketing Masterclass for Businesses with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl McKissack Daniel. Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America. Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl McKissack Daniel. Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America. Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Cheryl McKissack Daniel. Topic: Legacy, resilience, and entrepreneurship of the McKissack family, as detailed in the book The Black Family Who Built America. Cheryl shares the powerful story of her family's 230-year legacy in architecture and construction, making McKissack & McKissack the oldest minority woman-owned professional design and construction firm in the U.S. The conversation explores themes of generational resilience, Black excellence, business strategy, and personal growth.
Send us a textYear-end is the last chance to lock in major tax savings for your business.In this episode, Mike walks through the exact steps business owners need to take now, from S Corp requirements and accountable plans to AGI phaseouts, QBI planning, and the Augusta Rule.You'll also learn how to hire your kids correctly, hit retirement deadlines, use timing strategies as a cash-basis filer, harvest tax losses, and document every move so you enter tax season clean, organized, and ready.
Let's chat about how your website can take the stress out of selling, making the whole process feel more natural and effortless. If promoting your business makes you cringe, this is for you. Learn how your website can handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on what you do best. YOU WILL LEARN: Why your website should be your #1 sales tool. How to establish trust and credibility through testimonials, case studies, and results. The importance of addressing client objections upfront using an FAQ section, clear pricing, and straightforward processes. Ways to create urgency without pressuring potential clients. How blog posts and other content can help sell your services without you feeling pushy.
Get access to The Backroom (80+ exclusive episodes) on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/OneDimeIn this episode of 1Dime Radio, I have a provocative discussion with a much-requested guest, Vivek Chibber. Chibber is a professor and published writer (Catalyst and Jacobin). We discuss the state of the left today, and whether recent elections mark meaningful shifts in socialist political organizing. We also cover the challenges of building working-class support amidst the rise and conflicting interests of white collar professionals. The conversation touches on political compromise, and the influence of post-colonial theory in academia. In the Backroom exclusive segment on Patreon, Vivek Chibber and I specifically discuss Zohran Mamdani and his recent election. Will he and the DSA political strategy be enough to ensure a sustainable rise of socialism? Timestamps:0:00 Understanding Democratic Socialism and Traditional Socialism03:28 The Crisis of the Left: Organizational and Intellectual Weakness07:18 Rebuilding the Left: Strategies for Organizing Workers33:50 The Left's Relationship with Small Business Owners and Farmers35:16 Voting Patterns and Class Interests44:13 The Decline of Traditional Left-Wing Parties56:41 Defining Capitalism and Socialism59:05 Transition to The BackroomGUEST:Vivek Chibber, professor of sociology and author of Confronting Capitalism: How the World Works and How to Change It. You can also follow Chibber's work in the publications Catalyst and Jacobin.FOLLOW 1Dime:Substack (Articles and Essays): https://substack.com/@tonyof1dime X/Twitter: https://x.com/1DimeOfficialInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyof1dime...Check out my main channel videos: / @1dimeeOutro Music by Karl CaseyLeave a like, drop a comment, and give the show a 5-star rating on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to this
Send us a textWhat if you could buy a computer, a machine, or new equipment and deduct the entire cost in the first year instead of waiting 5, 10, or even 30 years? Thanks to major updates in the One Big Beautiful Bill, you can now take a full write-off upfront.We break down how depreciation works, when to expense versus capitalize, and how the updated bonus depreciation and Section 179 rules give owners more control over their tax bill.You'll learn how to time asset purchases, when to avoid front-loading deductions, and why every business needs a written capitalization policy.
5 Lessons from 5 Years on Clubhouse App with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This episode primarily discusses five key lessons learned from my 5 years on Clubhouse: intentionality, priority, patience, consistency, and tenacity (or resilience).Throughout the session, Favour interacts with the audience, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, providing value, and adapting to the evolving nature of the app for both personal and business growth, including mentions of his successful We Don't PLAY™️ podcast. The conversation also touches on other topics such as marketing strategy, the app's history, and making connections that lead to real-world opportunities.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Introduction: The Long Game in a Short-Attention WorldIn a digital world defined by fleeting trends and constant app-hopping, we rarely stick with a single platform long enough to draw deep conclusions. We download, explore, get bored, and move on. But what happens when you treat a social network less like a fleeting distraction and more like a consistent practice?On November 24, 2025, I opened a room on Clubhouse to mark a personal milestone: five years to the day since I first joined the audio-only platform. Back in 2020, it was an exclusive, invite-only space, and stepping into it felt like starting at a new school where you don't have any friends. You had to make them from scratch. Everyone was new, everyone was building, and that shared experience created a unique digital culture. As I celebrated that anniversary live on the app, I reflected on the journey.That long-term commitment revealed five essential, and sometimes surprising, principles for connection and growth in any digital space. These aren't just tips for social media; they are foundational lessons for navigating our increasingly online lives with purpose and impact.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------1. Intentionality: The Opposite of DoomscrollingIn a sea of infinite feeds and endless distractions, the first lesson is to choose to be present with a purpose. Intentionality means reframing your use of an app from a passive consumption habit to an active, goal-oriented practice. It requires asking why you are opening the app at that moment. Is it to learn something new? To support a peer? To connect with one specific person or engage with a larger community?This is a crucial shift because it puts you in control. Instead of letting an algorithm dictate your experience, you actively decide how to spend your time and energy. Whether you're speaking to a room of one or one thousand, being intentional ensures that every session has a purpose, which in turn fosters more meaningful interactions."having intentionality has increased my chances of connecting people at a deeper level."2. Priority: You Actualize What You PrioritizeBeyond simply managing your time, the second lesson is to consciously prioritize your attention. On an audio platform, this means prioritizing the rooms you join, the topics you engage with, and even what you choose to listen to—in essence, "prioritizing your ear." You can't be everywhere at once, so you must decide what conversations and connections are most aligned with your goals.For me, prioritizing Clubhouse as a platform for my podcast, "We Don't Play," was a game-changer. By consistently making it a key part of my content strategy, I generated new ideas and engaged with my audience in real-time. This focus was instrumental in a monumental achievement: releasing 131 podcast episodes just this year alone, out of a six-year journey. When you make something a priority, you dedicate the focus and resources necessary to bring it to life."When you prioritize, you actualize because what you're prioritizing, you're looking at. You're paying attention to it."3. Patience: The Lost Art of Digital ConnectionThe third lesson is perhaps the most counter-cultural in our fast-paced digital world: patience. Building genuine relationships takes time. On Clubhouse, I've seen simple connections evolve into friendships, business partnerships, and client referrals, but none of it happened overnight. Patience is the virtue required to navigate diverse conversations, but it's not always a passive act. Sometimes, people will test your patience, wanting to tell you off or challenge your perspective. It's in those moments that true patience is forged.A key practice of patience in an audio-only format is the discipline of letting people finish their thoughts completely. Resisting the urge to interrupt creates a space where people feel heard and respected, a stark contrast to the rapid-fire exchanges on other platforms. This practice of active, silent listening is fundamental to understanding, which is the bedrock of any real connection."listen and silent are the same. It's just scrabble differently. So I believe when you're silent and you're listening and you're patient with the person, you're taking time to respond as opposed to reacting based on what you're feeling."4. Consistency: Showing Up When No One is WatchingThe fourth lesson is about the quiet power of consistency. Building a presence, a community, or a reputation in any space depends on showing up regularly—especially when it feels like no one is paying attention. "Whether there's one person in this room or 5,000 or zero," the act of being there is what matters.This principle was baked into the very DNA of early Clubhouse. To earn the ability to start your own "club," you first had to prove your consistency by hosting open rooms for about a week. You had to put in the work before the platform's gamified system unlocked the keys. The reward followed the commitment. Years of this consistent presence produced connections that have become part of my daily lifestyle, but one story stands out. A woman once booked a call with me just to apologize. "For what?" I asked. She confessed that because I delivered valuable information so quickly, she couldn't take notes fast enough and had started secretly recording my audio. That was a profound, tangible testament to the impact of just showing up.5. Tenacity: The Engine for Everything ElseThe final and most powerful lesson is tenacity—the resilience that underpins the other four. Platforms evolve. Features change, communities shift, and the initial hype fades. Tenacity is the commitment to adapt and "move with the times" rather than abandoning the space when it's no longer what it once was. It's the decision to stay, even if the "app turns into Titanic."This isn't about stubbornness. It's about conviction. It's a deep belief in the value of the community you've helped build and a willingness to evolve with it. As the platform changes, tenacity reminds you that it's not about what you're sticking to, but what you believe in. It's about staying true to yourself and the people you serve, allowing you to see beyond temporary turmoil and continue building something of lasting value.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Conclusion: What Is Your Digital Platform Teaching You?After five years on a single app, the lessons are clear. The people I've met are life-changing, and true growth isn't found in chasing the next shiny object. It is forged through Intentionality, Priority, Patience, Consistency, and Tenacity. These five principles are more than just a strategy for Clubhouse; they are a blueprint for navigating any professional or personal endeavor in our digital world. They remind us that platforms are just tools; it is how we choose to use them that defines our impact, leaving us with one essential question to consider:When was the last time you did something for the first time?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Small Business Sales & Strategy | How to Grow Sales, Sales Strategy, Christian Entrepreneur
LEAVE A REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: https://facebook.com/groups/shebuildscollective In this Thanksgiving week episode of How to Grow My Small Business, we step away from strategy and step into gratitude. If you're an entrepreneur in a tough season, or you're building your business from the ground up, this episode is for you. Today we are reflecting on the gifts we often forget to acknowledge in our businesses, the blessings God pours into our work, and the impact entrepreneurship can have on our lives, families, and communities. In this episode Lindsay shares: • What women inside the She Builds Collective community are most thankful for in their business journeys • The deeper gifts of entrepreneurship beyond clients and revenue • How God uses business ownership to redeem time, provide freedom, and create opportunities • The power of community, connection, and support for Christian women in business • Why gratitude is one of the most important parts of growing a resilient and profitable business • Why thanksgiving shifts perspective during hard seasons • What Lindsay is most thankful for in her own businesses this year • How gratitude strengthens faith-driven entrepreneurship This episode is designed to encourage Christian entrepreneurs, small business owners, and women pursuing their God-given calling. If you need a reminder that your efforts matter, your work has purpose, and your journey is worth it, this conversation will lift you up. Takeaway: No matter where you are in your business journey, gratitude can ground you, refuel you, and give you renewed courage for the season ahead. LEAVE A REVIEW ON APPLE PODCASTS JOIN OUR COMMUNITY: https://facebook.com/groups/shebuildscollective
If you're tired of LinkedIn "gurus" saying you “just need to post more” on LinkedIn to land clients, this episode will be a breath of fresh air.Time to expose one of the biggest LinkedIn marketing myths that keeps Small Business Owners, Consultants and Business Coaches stuck on a content hamster wheel that never leads to paying clients.In this episode of LinkedIn Riches, I dive into the uncomfortable truth behind publishing content on LinkedIn, the hidden mechanics of the algorithm, and the far more simple (and profitable!) approach that leads to 5-6 figure clients - without posting daily, chasing engagement, or trying to “go viral.”WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER:
Save 30-50% on Learn Dash, GiveWP, The Events Calendar, and more: https://streamlined.fm/fridayEvery year, I put together a massive gift guide for small business owners — but this year, I wanted to do things differently. Instead of rattling off every gadget and tool I've ever tried, I'm sharing the handful of products that actually made my life easier in 2025.From sleep earbuds that help me get more rest (even with kids and a dog) to the smart home lights that let me skip climbing into bushes every December, these are the gifts that save time, reduce friction, and make running a solo business just a little more fun.If you're shopping for yourself or a small business owner in your life, you'll find something here that genuinely improves work and home life — without adding clutter or complexity.Want to check out a written version of the gift guide? Head here: https://streamlinedsolopreneur.com/2025-gift-guide/Show NotesGift Guide for Small Business OwnersA Fantastic EpisodeKindle ColorsoftTRMNLSoundcore Sleep A20 EarbudsI Bought, and Returned, the Ozlo SleepbudsFull Review – Soundcore Sleep A20 EarbudsDJI Mic Mini (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case)Zoom PodTrak P4 Podcast RecorderBose SoundLink Max Bluetooth SpeakerPhilips Hue Indoor/Outdoor Holiday 130-Foot Festavia String LightsAqara Zigbee Motion Sensor P1Eve Aqua Smart Water ControllerGitryin 10-in-1 Desktop Charging StationAnker Nano Charging StationAnker 9-in-1 Charging StationHoverBar DuoSee HoverBar Duo SetupUGREEN NASync DXP4800 4-Bay Desktop NASPost-it Super Sticky Easel PadProfessional Grade Gaffer TapeKeeping Equipment in PlaceAnalog Card Bar by UgmonkCalDigit E5 – Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 HubTwelve South HiRise 3 DeluxeMotorola razrSanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSDBellroy Tech Kit (Tech Accessories Organizer Pouch)Tella.tvObsidianGling.aiGoodLinksMasterClassSenja ★ Support this podcast ★
Send us a textIn this Monday Morning Motivation episode of the Small Business Survival Conversations Podcast, Anna Steinfest shares a powerful story that every entrepreneur needs to hear — the tale of a humble hot dog seller who let someone else's fear destroy his thriving business.This episode dives into why good judgment matters more than education, expert opinions, or economic forecasts — and why small business owners must learn to trust their own data, their own customers, and their own instincts.You'll learn:
This SEO 101, Podcast 101, and Pinterest Business 101: Digital Marketing Masterclass with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights episode outlines how a podcast acts as the central content piece ("the meat of the sandwich"), supported by Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and the long-term visibility offered by Pinterest for distribution and content longevity.The discussion explores practical aspects of content creation, such as keyword research, the importance of authenticity and storytelling, and the value of having a consistent digital presence across multiple platforms to build trust and authority. The conversation also features audience participation, with tips exchanged regarding tools like SEMrush and LLMRefs, and an emphasis on how a personal voice acts as a business's currency and brand identity.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you're in business, you've felt the pressure. The digital marketing world is a constant barrage of advice: "You have to be on TikTok," "Run more ads," "Post on Instagram three times a day." It's overwhelming, noisy, and often leads to a scattered strategy that feels more like throwing spaghetti at a wall than building a sustainable business.But what if there was a simpler, more powerful formula? After a deep dive into an expert discussion on modern content strategy, a surprisingly clear framework emerged: SEO + Podcasting + Pinterest. Think of it as a "digital marketing sandwich." SEO and Pinterest are the buns, providing structure and long-term discoverability. The meat in the middle is your podcast—the core of your message, the engine for trust, and the source of all your content. This approach brings clarity, structure, and a self-reinforcing system to your marketing efforts.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------1. Your Content's Lifespan: The 5-Month Rule of PinterestDifferent platforms treat your content in vastly different ways. A post on most social feeds might have a relevant lifespan of 72 hours before it's lost in the algorithm. This is the most surprising truth revealed: Pinterest is in a league of its own, with an average content lifespan of five months.This isn't just a minor difference; it's a game-changer. It reframes your content from a fleeting post into an evergreen asset. Imagine you had two storage units, both costing the same price. Storage A expires in 72 hours, while Storage B gives you five months. Which would you choose for your valuable assets? Content on Pinterest works for you for months, continually driving traffic and awareness long after you've published it."If you do that for your content on Pinterest, that's what you'll be creating because Pinterest has a a span of 5 months. So let's say you have a podcast you've done that's 5 minutes long. 5 minutes podcast episode that turns into a fivemon timeline."In essence, the speaker illustrates how a small, five-minute piece of content gains a five-month lifespan, creating an outsized return on the initial time investment.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------2. The Podcast as a Secret SEO EngineMany people think of a podcast as just an audio file. In reality, it's a powerful, multi-faceted tool for search engine optimization. Each episode offers seven distinct slots where you can submit strategic "intel" to platforms like Apple and Spotify, telling their algorithms precisely what your content is about.These seven SEO opportunities within a single episode are:• Podcast Cover Art• Episode Cover Art• Episode Title• Episode Description• Podcast Title• Podcast Description• The Author NameThis is incredibly impactful because it gives you numerous chances to signal your relevance. The title fields offer around 40-60 characters for your primary keywords, while the description fields give you a massive canvas of up to 4,000 characters to elaborate. By consistently embedding keywords across these seven slots, you create a clear, algorithm-friendly footprint that dramatically boosts your visibility and helps your target audience find you when they're searching for solutions.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------3. The Myth of "No Time": The Surprising Math of ConsistencyOne of the biggest hurdles for creators is the belief that producing consistent content, like a podcast, takes too much time. However, the math tells a different, far less intimidating story. Producing 75 podcast episodes in a single year might sound daunting. But let's break it down.Assuming one hour per episode, that's just 75 hours out of the 8,760 hours available in a year. This means you would spend less than 1% of your total time to build an entire library of valuable content. This simple calculation reframes the commitment from an overwhelming burden to a manageable, high-leverage activity."If you do 75 five episodes in a span of 365 days... That is less than 1% of your time in a year that you've spent on a podcast that has a lifespan of anywhere from 24 hours to 24 months."The true power lies in that contrast: a sub-1% time investment creates a powerful asset with a lifespan of up to two years. The return on investment is immense, turning small, consistent efforts into a long-term marketing engine.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------4. The 5% Rule of Listening: Why Your Message Isn't StickingHere is a counter-intuitive psychological truth that every marketer must understand: when someone listens to new information for the first time, they typically only acquire 5% of it.For a listener to reach 90% acquisition—the point where they truly understand a concept and could teach it back to someone else—they need repeated exposure. This has a massive implication for content creators. Your message will not stick after a single episode or post. This is why repetition, multi-format content (repurposing your podcast into blogs, social media posts, and pins), and clear, simple messaging are not just good ideas; they are essential. The real value is in reinforcing your core message over time and across platforms, moving your audience from 5% awareness to 90% understanding.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------5. Your Voice Builds the Bridge of TrustUltimately, a podcast's most profound power lies in the raw, human element of your voice. It serves as the cornerstone and anchor for your message. Text and images can inform, but your voice builds a relationship. Over time, as people listen to you consistently, they develop a "listen score," which directly translates into a "trust score."This is the bedrock of all effective marketing, because as any strategist knows, before you can earn dollars, you must earn trust. A podcast creates that bridge between you and your audience that static content cannot replicate. When people trust your voice, they are more likely to click your link, visit your website, and engage with your content. This trust makes every other part of your marketing machine—your SEO, your Pinterest strategy, your email campaigns—exponentially more effective."When you create a podcast, it creates that bridge of trust because now you can listen to me, you can call me out, you can say whatever you want... because of what you hear."--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Conclusion: Building Your Digital Marketing SandwichThe path to effective digital marketing doesn't have to be a chaotic scramble. By combining the foundational elements of SEO (capturing search intent), Podcasting (building trust and creating the core message), and Pinterest (creating a long-term, searchable content library), you build a robust, self-reinforcing system. It's a strategy that turns one piece of core content into a marketing engine that works for you for months, even years.This isn't about doing more work; it's about making the work you do more intelligent and interconnected. It's about building a system where each part strengthens the others, creating sustainable growth and a genuine connection with your audience.Now that you've seen the recipe, what part of your own digital marketing 'sandwich' have you been neglecting—the search-friendly buns or the trust-building meat in the middle?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Get a FREE Posing eBook from The Portrait System here: https://the-portrait-system.lpages.co/podcast-pose-funnel/To end the year off on a strong note, we are re-releasing a very special episode of The Portrait System Podcast! Host, photographer and educator Nikki Closser interviews Stephanie Ewens who tells us all about her amazing inspiring story. Stephanie went from being a shoot and burn photographer with a $300 sales average to a full time working photographer with a $3500 average. Don't miss out on this episode and don't forget to subscribe for more inspirational stories!PODCAST LISTENER SPECIAL!! If you want to get started with the Portrait System, get a special discount using code “POD7” to get one month access for just $7 here https://theportraitsystem.com/pricing/IG https://www.instagram.com/theportraitsystem/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/theportraitsystemSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Google Search Console (GSC) New! Branded and Non-Branded Queries + Annotation Filters | Marketing Talk with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This episode focuses on Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and the new features within Google Search Console (GSC).Favour discuss the recently introduced brand queries and annotations features in GSC, highlighting their importance for understanding both branded and non-branded search behavior.The conversation also emphasizes the broader strategic use of GSC data, comparing it to a car's dashboard for website performance, and explores how this data can be leveraged to create valuable content, such as FAQ-based blog posts and multimedia assets, often with the aid of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. A key theme is the shift from traditional keyword ranking to ranking for user experience and the interconnectedness of various digital tools in modern marketing strategy.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------As a content strategist, you live with a fundamental uncertainty. You create content you believe your audience needs, but a nagging question always remains: are you hitting the mark? It often feels like you're operating with a blind spot, focusing on concepts while, as the experts say, "you don't even know the intention behind why they're asking or searching."What if you could close that gap? What if your audience could tell you, explicitly, what they need you to create next?That's the paradigm shift happening right now inside Google Search Console (GSC). Long seen as a technical tool, recent updates are transforming GSC into a strategic command center. It's no longer just for SEO specialists; it's the dashboard for your entire content operation. These new developments are a game-changer, revealing direct intelligence from your audience that will change how you plan, create, and deliver content.Here are the five truths these new GSC features reveal—and how they give you a powerful competitive edge.1. Stop Driving Your Website Blind: The Dashboard AnalogyManaging a website without GSC is like driving a car without a dashboard. You're moving, but you have no idea how fast you're going or if you're about to run out of fuel. GSC is that free, indispensable dashboard providing direct intelligence straight from Google. But the analogy runs deeper. As one strategist put it, driving isn't passive: "when you're driving, you got to hit the gas, you got to... hit the brakes... when do you stop, when do you go, what do you tweak? Do you go to a pit stop?"You wouldn't drive your car without looking at the dashboard. So you shouldn't have a website and drive traffic and do all the things we do without looking at GSC, right?Your content strategy requires the same active management—knowing when to accelerate, when to pivot, and when to optimize. The new features make this "dashboard" more intuitive than ever, giving you the controls you need to navigate with precision.2. The Goldmine in Your Search Queries: Branded vs. Non-BrandedThe first game-changing update is the new "brand queries" filter. For the first time, GSC allows you to easily separate searches for your specific brand name (branded) from searches for the topics and solutions you offer (non-branded). This is the first step in a powerful new workflow: Discovery.Think of your non-branded queries as raw, unfiltered intelligence from your potential audience. These aren't just keywords; they're direct expressions of need. Instead of an abstract concept, you see tangible examples like:• “best practices for washing dishes”• “best pet shampoo”• “best Thanksgiving turkey meal”When you see more non-branded than branded queries, it's a powerful signal. It means you have access to a goldmine of raw material you can build content on to attract a wider audience that doesn't know your brand… yet. This isn't just data; it's a direct trigger for your next move.3. From Keyword to "Keynote": Creating Content with ContextOnce you've discovered this raw material, the next step is Development. This is where you transform an unstructured keyword into a strategic asset by adding structure and meaning. It's a progression: a raw keyword becomes a more defined keyphrase, which can be built into a keystone concept, and ultimately refined into a keynote.What's a keynote? Think about its real-world meaning: "when somebody sends you a note, it has context, right? It's supposed to mean something and it's supposed to say something specific." A keynote isn't just a search term; it's that term fully developed into a structured piece of content that delivers a specific, meaningful answer.This strategic asset can take many forms:• Blogs• Podcast episodes• Articles• Newsletters• Videos/Reels• eBooks4. The Most Underrated SEO Tactic: Your New Secret WeaponYou've discovered the query and developed it into a keynote. Now it's time for Execution. The single most effective format for executing on this strategy is one of the most powerful, yet underrated, SEO tactics in history: creating content around Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).The rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) has fundamentally changed search behavior. People are asking full, conversational questions, and search engines are prioritizing direct, authoritative answers. A "one blog per FAQ" strategy is the perfect response. It's a secret weapon that's almost shockingly effective.FAQ is the new awesome the most awesome ever. I I said that on purpose.How awesome? By creating a single, targeted blog post for the long-tail question, "full roof replacement cost [city]," one site ranked number one on Google for that exact phrase in just 30 minutes. That's the power of directly answering a question your audience is already asking.5. It's Not About New Features, It's About New ActionsThe real purpose of these GSC updates isn't to give you more charts to observe; it's to prompt decisive action. Every non-branded query is a signal for what content to create next, feeding a powerful strategic loop that builds your authority over time.This is where it all comes together in a professional content framework. As the source material notes, "That's why you have content pillars and you have content clusters." Your non-branded queries show you what clusters your audience needs, and your FAQ-style "keynotes" become the assets that build out those clusters around your core content pillars.This data-driven approach empowers you to:• Recreate outdated content with new, relevant insights.• Repurpose core ideas into different formats to reach wider audiences.• Re-evaluate which topics are truly resonating.• Reemphasize your most valuable messages with fresh content.Conclusion: What Does Your Dashboard Say?Google Search Console is no longer just a reporting tool. It has evolved into an essential strategic partner that closes the gap between the content you produce and the value your audience is searching for. It's your direct line to understanding intent, allowing you to move from guessing what people want to knowing what they need.Now that you know how to read your website's dashboard, what's the first turn you're going to make?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Your website needs a complete rewrite. The homepage rambles. Your services page doesn't actually explain what you do. Your about page feels stiff and awkward. Maybe you have way too much content, or maybe you don't have nearly enough.But here's the bigger problem—you have no idea where to start. Do you rewrite the homepage first? Fix the services pages? Add testimonials? Create individual service pages? The whole thing feels like a massive, tangled project, and you're stuck wondering which thread to pull without making everything worse. So you close the tab and tell yourself you'll deal with it later. But later never comes.If that's you—if you've been staring at your website feeling overwhelmed and stuck—this episode is for you.Today I'm opening enrollment for Rewrite Your Site, my 8-week group program that helps you confidently write website copy that sounds like you and actually converts. This isn't another course you'll buy and never finish. It's a structured, supported program where you show up, do the work, and eight weeks later you have a complete website you're proud of.In this episode of Talk Copy to Me, I'm walking you through exactly what's inside the program, how it works week by week, who it's for (and who it's not for), the Early Bird bonuses available through November 27th, and why I believe you can write your own website copy—you just need the right guidance, accountability, and editing support to get it done.Your website has been on your to-do list long enough. Let's finally finish it together._____________________________________________ EPISODE 171.Read the show notes and view the full transcript here: ______________________________________________Here's the info on your host, Erin OllilaErin Ollila believes in the power of words and how a message can inform – and even transform – its intended audience. She graduated from Fairfield University with an M.F.A. in Creative Writing, and went on to co-found Spry, an award-winning online literary journal.When Erin's not helping her clients understand their website data or improve their website copy, you can catch her hosting the Talk Copy to Me podcast and guesting on shows such as Profit is a Choice, Mindful Marketing, The Power in Purpose, and Business-First Creatives.Stay in touch with Erin Ollila, SEO website copywriter:• Learn more about my VIP intensive options or just book a strategy session to get started right away• Visit Erin's website to learn more about her business, services, and products_____________________________________________
She's Just Getting Started - Building a business you truly love!
Don't settle for just getting random sales here and there. Here's how you're going to turn your business into a sales machine so you can enjoy a steady stream of income!GET YOUR: -FREE IKIGAI GUIDE (to discover your business purpose) -16-Step BUSINESS STARTER'S CHECKLIST -FREE VIDEO MASTERCLASS: Stop Flailing & Start Growing!
If you've ever wondered whether LinkedIn Ads are the “shortcut” to more lead generation, this episode will give you the answer!In it, I break down the big lie behind LinkedIn advertising and reveal a simple organic LinkedIn strategy that consistently outperforms paid traffic - especially for Small Business Owners, Consultants, and Business Coaches.In this episode of LinkedIn Riches, I dive into the real numbers behind LinkedIn marketing, what ads actually cost, and why the fastest, most reliable path to high-ticket clients is still a strategy I first stumbled across in 2012 - one that has nothing to do with boosted posts or display ads.WHAT YOU'LL DISCOVER:
⚠️ Cloudflare Internet Outage; Adobe x Semrush Deal: Tech Dependency vs Business Website Strategy with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.This is Marketing Club Clubhouse discussion, primarily focusing on the widespread impact of a recent Cloudflare outage that affected numerous popular platforms like ChatGPT, Spotify, Uber, and Zoom. Favour Obasi-ike uses this event to emphasize the importance of business continuity and operational redundancy, urging listeners to research and select robust platforms for their own enterprises to mitigate the risks of future outages. Furthermore, the discussion touches upon the rapidly changing tech industry landscape, including the significant Adobe acquisition of Semrush and the competitive moves of companies like Canva, prompting audience commentary on the potential implications of these corporate shifts on product quality and market strategy. Favour also suggests alternative hosting solutions like SiteGround and Hostinger as more resilient options for business websites.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Visit our Work and PLAY Entertainment website to learn about our digital marketing services.>> Visit our Official website for the best digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategies today!>> Join our exclusive SEO Marketing community>> Read SEO Articles>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Subscribe to the We Don't PLAY Podcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Day the Internet Stumbled: 3 Surprising Lessons from a Single Tech OutageIntroduction: More Than Just a GlitchA single infrastructure failure on a Tuesday morning did more to reveal the precarious nature of our digital world than a dozen industry white papers. When the internet infrastructure company Cloudflare experienced a major outage, it was far more than a momentary glitch.Its scale was staggering. Suddenly, a diverse range of major companies—including Canva, ChatGPT, Spotify, Uber, and Zoom—were all experiencing issues simultaneously. The event wasn't just a technical problem; it was a revealing moment that offered a rare peek behind the curtain of the digital world. It exposed hidden vulnerabilities and surprising dynamics within the tech ecosystem we all depend on. This article distills the three most impactful lessons learned from that single event.1. The Internet Isn't a Cloud, It's a Jenga TowerThe Centralization SurpriseThe core lesson from the Cloudflare outage was the shocking revelation of just how centralized our decentralized-seeming internet truly is. The popular image of the internet is a resilient, distributed network, but the reality is that a small number of foundational companies form the base of a massive Jenga tower. When a key block like Cloudflare was jostled, users quickly discovered that dozens of different services were all pointing "towards one direction," revealing a hidden single point of failure. Seemingly stable pieces higher up—from your design software to your ride-share app—began to wobble.This one incident impacted a staggering list of applications, highlighting the sheer diversity of services reliant on a single piece of infrastructure: Canva, Archive of Our Own, Canvas, Character AI, ChatGPT, Claude AI, Dayforce, Google Store, Grinder, IKEA, Indeed, League of Legends, Letterboxed, OpenAI, Quizlet, Rover, Spotify, Square, Truth Social, Uber, and Zoom. For the average user, this means the digital services that feel distinct and independent are, in fact, far more fragile and codependent than they appear.2. While You Were Offline, Big Tech Made Some Bizarre MovesA Bizarre Acquisition Amidst the ChaosWhile the digital world was grappling with the outage, news broke that Adobe was acquiring SEO tool Semrush for $1.9 billion. This development, happening alongside the infrastructure chaos, sparked widespread confusion and skepticism. As many in the tech community noted, Semrush "has nothing to do with creative" software, which is Adobe's core domain.The concern was palpable, with one community member expressing a common fear:"I really hope this Semrush acquisition doesn't affect quality and support. Big corporation buyouts [rarely succeed]."The analysis behind this seemingly strange move points to the disruptive force of artificial intelligence. The theory is that as AI reshapes search and content creation, traditional SEO tools are finding it harder to maintain their dominance. This acquisition could be Adobe's strategic, if unconventional, response to that industry pressure. This trend of unexpected competition is visible elsewhere, with platforms like Canva making aggressive moves into video editing, putting them in direct competition with Adobe. The outage served as a backdrop to a tech landscape that is shifting in unpredictable ways.3. Your Business is More Vulnerable Than You Think (But Outages Can Make You Stronger)The Resilience ImperativeFor businesses and professionals, the outage was not an abstract problem. The impact was immediate: one professional reported their AI-powered Fathom note-taker for Zoom failed to load, even while the Zoom call itself was active—a perfect example of a hidden dependency crippling a critical workflow. The sudden inability to access essential tools forces a critical business question to the surface:"...if ChatGPT is down and that's what I use and now I can't use it for the first four hours of my day... How can I use 50% of my time to maximize 100% of my opportunity?"The core advice is to reframe these events not as mere problems to be weathered but as invaluable opportunities for strategic review. Business owners should use these moments to ask what platforms they truly rely on, research the stability of those systems, and begin building more resilient workflows.This is the "bow and arrow" principle applied to business strategy. An outage forces you to pull back, assess your tools, and re-aim. This forced pause, while painful, is precisely what allows you to launch forward with a more resilient, deliberate, and ultimately stronger operational foundation, turning a negative event into a catalyst for positive change.Conclusion: A New Lens for a Digital WorldThis single outage taught us more than just who owns the internet's plumbing. It revealed the hidden fragility of our digital infrastructure, highlighted the unpredictable strategies of tech giants under pressure, and underscored the personal and professional imperative for building resilience. It showed that the platforms we use every day are interconnected in ways we rarely see until something breaks.The next time your favorite app goes down, will you just see an inconvenience, or will you see a chance to re-evaluate the digital foundation your work and life are built on?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Get a FREE Posing eBook from The Portrait System here: https://the-portrait-system.lpages.co/podcast-pose-funnel/Today on this special re-release of The Portrait System Podcast, Vancouver-based boudoir and empowerment Michele Mateus is our guest. Listen in as Michele tells us all about her business journey and how she has achieved a $3k+ sales average. Don't miss out on this exceptional episode!PODCAST LISTENER SPECIAL!! If you want to get started with the Portrait System, get a special discount using code “POD7” to get one month access for just $7 here https://theportraitsystem.com/pricing/IG https://www.instagram.com/theportraitsystem/YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/theportraitsystemSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
How optimistic are small business owners nowadays? According to a recent survey, the picture is downbeat — many owners have been dealing with tariffs and other stressors. We delve into the data. And, a chat with the co-founder of a non-profit restaurant in New York City that serves up economically inclusive meals priced with a sliding scale based on what diners can pay.
How optimistic are small business owners nowadays? According to a recent survey, the picture is downbeat — many owners have been dealing with tariffs and other stressors. We delve into the data. And, a chat with the co-founder of a non-profit restaurant in New York City that serves up economically inclusive meals priced with a sliding scale based on what diners can pay.
In this episode, Matt Litzelfelner, President & Owner, A One Towing, discusses leadership rooted in service, learning a new industry from the ground up, and how technology, transparency, and teamwork drive his company's growth.