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You know how everyone says, “Just make more money”? Yeah… but what if the real problem isn't how much you're making—it's how much you're keeping?
Ever look at a bookkeeping quote and think, “Why does this cost so much?”
How to Use Google Advanced Search for Professional Business SEO Marketing with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.If you want to know "How to use Google Advanced search like a pro," this is the episode for you! I lead a marketing discussion focused on leveraging advanced search techniques for business operations. The participants explore the practical application of Google's Advanced Search feature by using a horror filmmaker's brand as a case study to demonstrate how to narrow search results and discover content opportunities. The conversation is highly interactive, with Favour Obasi-ike guiding attendees through the process of finding the hidden Advanced Search link on Google's website and using specific search operators to gain a competitive advantage.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------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-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Locating and Understanding Google Advanced SearchA significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to a detailed walkthrough of the Google.com interface to locate the Advanced Search feature, emphasizing that it is not immediately visible.• Navigating the Google.com Interface: The speaker provides a structural analysis of the Google.com homepage, breaking it down into a header and footer, treating it like a standard website. ◦ Header Elements: About, Store, Gmail, Images, Search Labs, Google products (nine dots), and the user's Google account. ◦ Footer Elements: Advertising, Business, How Search Works, Privacy, Terms, and Settings.• Finding the Advanced Search Tool: The precise path to the tool is outlined as follows: 1. Go to google.com. 2. Scroll to the gray footer section at the bottom of the page. 3. On the bottom right, click on Settings. 4. From the settings menu, select Advanced Search. ◦ The direct link provided in the session is: google.com/advanced_search.• Google's Broader Initiatives: Favour encourages a deeper look at Google's footer content, pointing out links that reveal the company's operational principles and corporate goals, such as How Search Works (which details organizing information, ranking, testing, and spam detection) and a section on sustainability, which states a goal to "collectively reduce 1 gigaton of their carbon equivalent emissions annually by 2030."Case Study: SEO Strategy for a "Horror Filmmaker"The session's central tutorial is a live case study using a search term provided by a participant, "P," who identifies as a "disabled horror filmmaker."• Initial Search Analysis: ◦ A standard Google search for horror filmmaker yields results focused on popular movies and lists of famous male directors (e.g., "the best horror film um directors"). ◦ Google's auto-complete suggestions include related commercial and informational queries like horror filming techniques, horror movie structure, and horror movie checklist.• Using Advanced Search: ◦ Favour inputs "horror filmmakers" into the "this exact word or phrase" field in Advanced Search. This action automatically wraps the term in quotation marks in the standard search bar, significantly refining the results.• Identifying a Niche Opportunity: ◦ The speaker observes a critical gap in the search results: "I noticed that out of all these names that I see, there's no woman that is on the list." ◦ This observation is corroborated by Google's suggested search bubbles, which include terms like list, female, and top. The primary search result for "female horror directors" is from Rotten Tomatoes.• Strategic Recommendations for "P": ◦ Content Creation: It is recommended that "P" create content pillars on her website focused on female horror directors and related topics from the "People also ask" section of Google's results. This would help establish her as an authority in an underserved niche. ◦ Market Share: The goal of this content strategy is to capture a "market share" of the search traffic for these terms. By creating articles like "Here are some influential horror filmmakers we have in our time," her brand can appear alongside established names. ◦ Commercial Intent: The strategy aims to convert informational searches into commercial opportunities. After providing valuable information, the website can prompt visitors to "Book a call with us" or inquire about "horror filmmaking services."Thank you for listening to this episode!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Public RSS Feeds vs Private RSS Feeds for Best Podcast SEO Distribution Practices with Favour Obasi-Ike | Sign up for exclusive SEO insights.In this podcast episode, Favour provides an extensive comparison between public podcast RSS feeds and private podcast RSS feeds, offering guidance on how to choose the appropriate option for one's needs, particularly for business growth. A public podcast is openly accessible on various platforms and directories like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, serving as a powerful tool for brand building, content marketing, and increasing accessibility. Conversely, a private podcast is characterized by requiring authentication for access, making it suitable for exclusive content, internal corporate training, or paid subscription communities, with platforms like Supercast and Hello Audio recommended for this purpose. Favour stresses that consistent content publication and maximizing RSS feed distribution to various directories are crucial for public podcast success, while noting that starting with a public podcast is often advisable before transitioning to a private, often monetized, model.The Public RSS Feed: Maximizing Reach and DiscoverabilityA public podcast RSS feed is a publicly listed show available on third-party platforms and directories. It is designed for open access and broad distribution.• Definition: A public feed is accessible to anyone on podcast players and websites without requiring a login or payment. It operates on a one-to-many distribution model, where a single RSS feed from a hosting platform is submitted to numerous podcast directories.• Analogy: The structure is comparable to a website, which has a backend hosting provider (e.g., GoDaddy, Hostinger) and a front-facing content management system (CMS) or website that users interact with. In podcasting, the hosting platform holds the audio files, and the directories (players) make them accessible to listeners.• Mechanism of Reach: The key to a public podcast's success is submitting its RSS feed to as many directories as possible. Each directory is a separate website or application, and being listed on 30 different players means 30 distinct online entities are linking back to the podcast, significantly enhancing its digital footprint and discoverability.The Private RSS Feed: Monetization and ExclusivityA private podcast RSS feed is intentionally not listed on public directories and is structured to control access.• Definition: A private feed is ineligible for public listing because it requires authentication—a user must sign up, log in, or pay to access the content. This creates a secure and exclusive listening experience.• Analogy: This model is comparable to subscription-based streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime. Users pay a fee to access a database of proprietary content. A private podcast operates on the same principle, offering exclusive audio or video content to a select audience.• Mechanism of Access: Access is granted only after a specific action is taken by the user, typically involving payment or registration. This makes it a powerful tool for delivering premium content, courses, internal communications, or community-specific updates.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------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--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Actionable First Steps for a New Podcaster1. Choose a Hosting Platform: The recommended starting point is creators.spotify.com (formerly Anchor.fm) because it is free and provides a straightforward entry point.2. Create SEO-Driven Content: Focus on producing episodes with clear, searchable titles and detailed descriptions that answer potential listener questions.3. Distribute Widely: After setting up the podcast, use a service like pod.link to find a comprehensive list of directories and submit the RSS feed to all of them to maximize potential reach.4. Publish Consistently: Momentum is built through consistent publishing. Reaching milestones like 12, 24, or 48 episodes helps establish a presence and build a library that encourages new listeners to stay.I hope you enjoyed this podcast episode and learned something new about public and private podcast RSS feed distribution!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
As mentioned in the video above, here's my introduction about Hans Wilhelm's teachings:See all of Hans Wilhelm's 100+ videos here: LifeExplained YouTubeAlso mentioned was the Law of Projection video: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit georgekao.substack.com
In this episode, Kara shares her insights on building an authentic social media presence for your business. Drawing from her own journey of growing from one Instagram photo to over 8,000 followers, she discusses how to use social media as a tool for genuine connection rather than just selling. Learn about content pillars, the shift from "how-to" to "how I" content, and why showing up authentically matters more than ever in the age of AI.Episode Topics:The evolution of social media marketing and why connection matters mostSetting clear goals: lead generation vs. brand recognitionDefining your content pillars (3-4 key themes that represent you)Personal brand vs. business page: why you need bothThe content shift from "how-to" to "how I" videosAuthenticity in the age of AI-generated contentOvercoming the fear of showing up on videoWhy specificity and emotion drive engagementStaying top of mind with your sphere of influenceInsights:Start before you're ready: Kara began her Instagram journey in 2019 with just one photo and consciously decided to go all-in during COVID, proving it's never too late to build your presenceThe "how I" revolution: People don't want generic how-to content anymore; they want to be brought into your world through personal stories and experiencesAuthenticity is your competitive advantage: As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, showing up as your real, multifaceted self creates deeper connectionsContent pillars create consistency: Focus on 3-4 themes that represent different aspects of who you are—not just your businessVideo builds trust: While it can be intimidating, video allows people to connect with the real you before they ever meet you in personAvoid divisiveness: In a politically divided world, focus on connection points rather than controversial topics that might alienate potential clientsHighlights:00:00 Welcome and Intro00:43 Marketing and Social Media Strategy 06:30 Content Creation and Authenticity 12:22 Shift in Content Creation Strategies 16:37 Podcast episode ended Connect with Kara to share your thoughts on the series:Website - http://www.kcdrealestate.com/ Email - kara@kdcrealestate.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/karachaffindonofrio/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/karachaffin1?_rdc=1&_rdr YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/KaraChaffin LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karachaffin/ Don't forget to visit freegiftfromkara.com for our special giveaway, the Dynamic Life Journal to help you maintain your authentic voice and intuitive wisdom while navigating the balance between technology and human connection in your business and personal life.Special Listener Offer: Unlock Your Soul-Aligned Brand with Jen CudmoreAs a gift to our Soul Inspiring...
Shopify SEO Vs WordPress SEO Masterclass for eCommerce Optimization with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Unlock the secrets of eCommerce optimization with Favour Obasi-ike! In this episode, we dive deep into the ultimate showdown: Shopify SEO vs WordPress SEO. Whether you're focused on local marketing strategies or scaling nationally, understanding which platform fuels your marketing success is crucial. Discover proven SEO tactics for website optimization, from image compression and technical SEO to content marketing strategy that drives organic traffic.We break down the critical SEO strategies for both platforms—learn why WordPress demands consistent maintenance and plugin updates, while Shopify offers a simpler, lower-maintenance backend for asset acquisition and product monetization. Get actionable AI tips on audio marketing, email marketing strategy, and how to monetize your email list effectively.This is a masterclass in search engine optimization that moves beyond basic SEO tips to cover branding strategy, market intelligence, and measuring ROI. Learn how to create a successful marketing plan that turns your website into a high-converting asset. Don't miss these essential marketing fundamentals for business optimization and digital success.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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 Episode Topics:Shopify vs WordPress: Platform choice for selling products vs selling services.SEO Optimization: Image file naming, alt text, and site speed fundamentals.Content Strategy: How to use audio and blog content for audience building.Website Maintenance: The non-negotiable tactics to avoid critical errors.AI Marketing: Leveraging AI strategies for search engine dominance and brand mentions.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommended Use Cases• For Selling Products (especially for beginners): Shopify is the primary recommendation. ◦ Its backend is designed for intuitive product management, including variations, colors, SEO metadata, HTML formatting in descriptions, and sales channel management (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) all in one interface. ◦ It is ideal for businesses that want a simple, workable solution to log in, manage products, and minimize technical overhead.• For Selling Services: WordPress is generally recommended. ◦ It provides superior aesthetic control to create a professional-looking service-based website. ◦ A significant portion of the web (43%), including government, medical, and educational institutions, is built on WordPress, attesting to its robustness for non-product-centric sites.• For Scalability & SKU Volume: The discussion presents a nuanced view. ◦ One participant suggests WordPress is a great alternative for businesses with under 25-50 SKUs. ◦ The same participant suggests Shopify may be preferable for those with more complex needs or over 100 SKUs, though it can get "hairy" with very high volumes. ◦ However, it's noted that major corporations like Gym Shark and Mattel use Shopify for thousands of SKUs, indicating it can be scaled effectively, likely with significant custom development.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Critical E-commerce Optimization & SEO StrategiesRegardless of the platform, specific SEO and optimization tactics are essential for attracting traffic and driving sales. A website's success is determined not just by how it looks, but "how it operates."Foundational SEO: Images and Site Speed• Website Speed: A fast-loading website is paramount for user experience across all devices (desktop, mobile, tablet).• Image Compression: Before uploading, all images should be compressed using a tool like compressor.io. Large image files significantly slow down page load times. ◦ An example was given: 50 products, each with 5 variations and a 5MB image size, quickly compounds into a massive data load that cripples site speed (5MB x 5 variations x 50 products).• Image File Naming: File names must be descriptive and keyword-rich. A file named red-cotton-socks.jpg provides algorithmic context, whereas photo-123.jpeg has "no context... no value... no search traffic."• Alternative Text (Alt Text): SEO-optimized alt text is crucial. It describes the image for screen readers (improving accessibility) and for search engines, providing additional contextual relevance for keywords.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Content as a Cornerstone of AttractionThe primary method for optimizing a site and attracting visitors is to create high-value content.• The Visitor Journey: The goal is to convert visitors into readers, then into "clickers," and finally into "action takers."• Pre-Purchase Content Strategy: For a startup or a new product launch (e.g., a membership program), the strategy should focus on building infrastructure and anticipation. ◦ Create content that educates the audience on the program before it launches. ◦ Examples include offering a quiz, a survey, a checklist, or an onboarding guide in exchange for an email signup.• Multi-Format Content: A powerful strategy involves creating content in multiple formats. ◦ Record a podcast discussing a topic, then transcribe it into a full blog post. ◦ This provides two links and two formats (audio and text) on the same topic, doubling the online footprint. Over two and a half months, this can result in 20 distinct pieces of information online.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------The Evolution of Search: From Ranking to Brand MentionsThe traditional concept of "ranking" on Google is becoming outdated.• Google recently removed pagination parameters (the num=100 parameter), making it harder to appear on subsequent search pages and limiting how AI servers scrape data.• The new paradigm is to focus on earning brand mentions on AI platforms like ChatGPT.• This is achieved by providing comprehensive, evidence-backed content in multiple formats (text, audio, video). A competitor with a blog, podcast, and video on a topic will have a significant advantage over one with just a blog.Tune in for more of these search engine marketing insights and start monetizing your Shopify SEO or WordPress SEO efforts today.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What if the greatest barrier to building a profitable business isn't just strategy or hustle, but the way you think about—and manage—your money? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood is joined by Melissa Houston, a seasoned CPA, entrepreneur, and author on a mission to close the financial literacy gap, especially for women business owners.Melissa Houston shares her journey from corporate accounting to launching "She Means Profit," writing "Cash Confident," and developing the ProfiVise app—all aimed at helping entrepreneurs truly understand their financials and boost profitability. Her approach empowers founders to shift their mindset, master vital numbers, and confidently manage their business finances.Listeners will walk away with actionable tips from Melissa's five-step Cash Confident framework, learn how to avoid money leaks, and gain insight into setting effective prices. With tools and mindset shifts tailored for entrepreneurs at every stage, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move beyond break-even to achieving real, lasting business success. To get the latest from Melissa Houston, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissahoustoncpa/https://www.shemeansprofit.comhttps://www.profivise.com Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comDo Good While Doing WellLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Send us a textTrusts aren't just for the rich. Every family can benefit from one. A revocable living trust can simplify estate planning, avoid probate, and create a foundation for generational wealth.In this episode, Mike Jesowshek, CPA, sits down with Jack Fiveash, attorney and co-founder of The Co Letter, to talk about how families can use a simple trust and LLC structure to build long-term stability, protect assets, and involve their children in smart financial stewardship.They cover how to start a revocable trust, the ideal timing, what it costs, and how it ties into a broader family office structure that preserves both wealth and values.
Google SEO Best Practices - How to Kickstart Your Holiday Marketing Campaign with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.In this episode, recorded live in a Clubhouse audio app room (10/20/22), we dive into the fundamentals of effective digital promotion. Favour Obasi-ike cuts through the noise to reveal that successful marketing isn't a one-time campaign, but a continuous conversation. He emphasizes that the true engine of growth is a simple, powerful focus on answering your audience's questions and solving their genuine problems. This consistent value is what naturally builds brand awareness and creates unstoppable momentum.We explore the critical first step that many miss: listening. No matter your budget, your marketing efforts must begin with listening to your target audience through tools like surveys and social media monitoring. This isn't just about data collection; it's about understanding their deepest needs and the language they use, so you can tailor your content for maximum impact.Our conversation also features guest John, who reinforces that at the heart of it all is storytelling. It's about framing your product or service as the essential solution within a compelling narrative that resonates. We even sparked an interactive poll with our live audience to uncover the most effective marketing channels, highlighting that success comes from knowing where your people are and how they engage.Ultimately, this discussion drives home a non-negotiable truth: establishing authority and trust comes from giving away valuable, comprehensive information. When you focus on being a resource first, you build the foundation that reliably drives conversions.Tune in to learn how to kickstart a marketing strategy that is both authentic and powerfully effective with Google SEO and more!Episode Answer KeyMarketing is described as an ongoing, daily process, much like PR, that focuses on building awareness and solving problems. In contrast, advertising is periodic and represents a specific, time-bound activity that can work in conjunction with broader marketing efforts.The first step in kickstarting a marketing campaign is not spending money, but rather listening, asking questions, and conducting surveys. Favour Obasi-ike emphasizes that this process begins with identifying the questions people are asking to understand their problems and needs.User-Generated Content (UGC) is a marketing method where other people talk about a brand or its products without the brand being directly involved. Examples mentioned by Favour Obasi-ikeare ads from Apple and Coca-Cola that show people using their products in real-time, real-life situations, which helps build brand awareness.Storytelling is powerful because it allows businesses to market themselves without overtly selling. Favour Obasi-ike explains that businesses that tell stories do well because they are gaining attraction, momentum, and connecting with an audience that can relate to the problem and the proposed solution.Testing is an essential and continuous part of any marketing campaign. As Favour Obasi-ikementioned in the context of Facebook advertising, a campaign cannot proceed without testing because it helps tighten up marketing efforts and understand what resonates with the target audience.Apple created a group study concept where they invited people into a store to interact with products without any pressure to buy. Favour Obasi-ike described how, by observing what products, like the iPhone over the iPad, people were most drawn to, they could understand customer needs for portability and functionality, which informed their strategy.John's primary recommendation for a small-budget campaign is to "story your solution." This involves identifying a specific niche and their problems, and then creating video content that tells the story of how that problem was solved for a particular type of person.Favour Obasi-ike advises that there is no such thing as "too much information" if the focus is on serving people and satisfying their needs. Providing comprehensive, valuable content that answers questions establishes top authority, solves problems, and attracts an attentive audience.Businesses use surveys to ask direct questions about the customer experience, such as "How did we serve you?" and "How can we serve you better?" Favour Obasi-ike notes that the responses contain trigger words and key insights that help the business understand customer preferences, which are then used to solve those specific problems in the next marketing campaign.To create an appealing response, Favour Obasi-ike suggests using a variety of formats beyond simple text. These include pictures, video tutorials, infographics, how-tos, carousels, slides, and sound bites.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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 PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Navigating Email Marketing Best Practices for Podcast Growth with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This episode focuses on navigating email best practices for podcast growth. Favour Obasi-ike, a creative entrepreneur and business owner with a background in SEO, Pinterest, and podcasting, shares insights and strategies to help podcasters grow and scale their business through effective email marketing. Key recommendations include the importance of having a dedicated website for a podcast, vocally mentioning the website on the show for transcription purposes, and strategically using keywords in episode titles and descriptions for organic search visibility. Favour Obasi-ike also emphasizes the critical role of email deliverability and managing customer relationships using a reliable email service provider and CRM system, offering specific advice on elements like font size, image resolution, and avoiding underscores in usernames to ensure accessibility and strong organic reach.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!Core Principle: The Podcast-Website SymbiosisThe foundational element for podcast growth is establishing a dedicated online presence. Favour Obasi-ike argues that every podcast, regardless of its stage, requires a website.• The "Front Door" Analogy: A website is described as the "front door" for the podcast. When a listener hears a URL mentioned in an episode and types it into a new browser tab, they are metaphorically "opening a door" to the podcast's home. The homepage is the initial entry point from which they can explore other content.• Central Hub for Engagement: The website serves as a central location for listeners to connect more deeply with the show. It is the ideal place to host freebies, newsfeeds, blog posts, and, most importantly, an email sign-up form.• Capturing the Audience: By verbally directing listeners to a specific URL on the podcast (e.g., "go to playinc.online/newsfeed"), podcasters create a direct path for listeners to subscribe to an email list. This is demonstrated in real-time by Favour Obasi-ike asking listeners to provide their first name and best email via a link.Strategic Email Marketing for Audience EngagementOnce a system for capturing emails is in place, the focus shifts to strategic content and delivery to build and maintain a relationship with the audience.Content and Subject Line Strategy• Intrigue Over Information: Generic subject lines like "Episode One Introduction" are less effective. A more powerful approach is to use curiosity-piquing subject lines, such as, "Want to know the best way to make a sandwich?"• The "Sandwich" Analogy: This example illustrates that a subject line can use a relatable concept to draw in an audience, even if the episode's core topic is different (e.g., using the layers of a sandwich as an analogy for content marketing). This method attracts both those interested in the literal subject and the curious.• Valuable First Content: A podcaster's first episode, or the first email a new subscriber receives, can be strategically repurposed. For a business, this could be a "Frequently Asked Questions" episode, providing immediate value and educating a potential client about their services.Cadence and ConsistencyBuilding Relationships: The goal of email marketing is customer relationship management (CRM). Consistent communication builds familiarity and trust.Email Frequency: Favour Obasi-ike personally sends a minimum of two emails per month, rarely exceeding four to eight unless for a segmented campaign. The goal is to maintain a presence without overwhelming the audience.The Annual Cycle: Favour Obasi-ike views email as an "orbit," aiming to send 365 emails over time to represent a full cycle. After a year, the strategy should evolve, introducing a "new form" or "new formality" to keep the content fresh.Technical Foundations for Email DeliverabilityEffective email marketing is impossible if the emails do not reach the intended inbox. Favour Obasi-ike highlights several critical technical aspects that directly impact deliverability and audience reception.Platform and Server IntegrityThe Importance of the ESP: The choice of Email Service Provider (ESP) is crucial. A key objective should be to use a platform with a high-quality server to achieve deliverability rates of at least 99.9%.Recommended Platform: Favour Obasi-ike is a partner with and recommends Flodesk, citing its simplicity, authenticity, credibility, and speed. Flodesk's partnership with Amazon Simple Email Service (Amazon SES) is noted as a significant benefit.DNS Authentication: Low email open rates can often be attributed to an incomplete Domain Name Server (DNS) authentication setup. Podcasters must ensure their DNS records are correctly configured to authenticate their sending domain, which helps prevent emails from being flagged as spam.Email Design, Formatting, and ComplianceReadability and Audience Awareness: Email formatting must be tailored to the target audience. For an audience aged 45 and up, a font size of at least 16 pixels is recommended to ensure legibility without requiring readers to "squint."Email Weight: Font size and image size contribute to the overall "weight" of an email. Large files can negatively impact deliverability. An image of 300x300 pixels is preferable to one that is 3,000x3,000 pixels for email content.Spam Score and Testing: Podcasters should proactively test their emails for potential issues. Favour Obasi-ike recommends using a free tool like Mail-tester.com to check for spam scores and compliance issues before sending a campaign. Registering with platforms like Postmaster Google is also advised.SEO and Multi-Platform DiscoverabilityOrganic growth is driven by discoverability. Favour Obasi-ike outlines a comprehensive SEO strategy that extends beyond the podcast itself to all associated digital assets.Keywords and Semantic SearchThe Power of Repetition: Consistently repeating a target key phrase (e.g., "email best practices") across all content formats significantly boosts search visibility. This includes the podcast audio (which becomes a transcript), episode titles, blog posts, video descriptions, image alt text, and the URL itself.Verbal SEO: Vocally stating and phonetically spelling out URLs (e.g., "p l a y i n c . o n l i n e") on the podcast is a critical practice. Modern transcription services can recognize these as links, making them clickable directly from the text version of the episode.Descriptive Titling: Podcast titles should be contextual and keyword-rich. A title like "The Sun Nutrition" is far more discoverable than a generic title like "The Sun Podcast" because it tells potential listeners exactly what the show is about.Social Media and Platform IntegrationUsername Optimization: Avoid using underscores in social media usernames (e.g., on Instagram). Favour Obasi-ike argues that underscores are not search-friendly, add unnecessary complexity for users typing the name, and conceptually place the user "under the line." A mashed-up name or a hyphen is preferable.LinkedIn RSS Feed Integration: A powerful and underutilized tactic is to connect a podcast's RSS feed directly to a LinkedIn company profile. This can be done in the company settings section and allows for the automatic distribution of new episodes onto the LinkedIn server, expanding reach.Advanced Growth Strategies and Data AnalysisBeyond the fundamentals, Favour Obasi-ike offers advanced tips for optimization and scaling based on data intelligence.Technical Standards and ValidationPodcast Artwork: The industry standard for podcast cover art and episode covers is a minimum of 3,000 by 3,000 pixels. Anything smaller may cause issues.Feed Validation: Podcasters can use free tools like Castfeedvalidator.com to perform an audit of their RSS feed and ensure it meets technical standards.Data-Driven DecisionsBrowser-Based Listening: It is a critical insight that a significant portion of the audience listens to podcasts on a web browser. With Google Chrome accounting for 72% of web browsers, this highlights the importance of a web-friendly presence and SEO within the Google ecosystem (Search, YouTube, Gmail).Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
A strong HR foundation in small business isn't just about compliance - it's about retention. When employees feel valued throughout their journey, your business and culture grow. Too often, small businesses hand HR to office managers, leaving critical practices to chance. Real expertise ensures a positive, compliant, and trust-filled workplace. Handled well, tricky situations are de-escalated, protecting both team culture and your reputation. I recently spoke with Sarah Chang, CEO of Clearwater HR Consulting, a firm helping small businesses across the US navigate the complexities of HR. Here are some of the topics from our conversation: ✅ Clearwater HR's services, team, and focus on small businesses. ✅ Common HR challenges, from infrastructure to employee relations. ✅ Mistakes owners make handling HR in-house and value of guidance. ✅ The evolving HR landscape: social media, awareness, and legal issues. ✅ Building a successful HR consulting business and aligning HR with goals. ✅ Advice for improving workplace culture, retention, and growth. ✅ And much more. Most small business owners want to build great teams and cultures - they just need the right support. By partnering with proven HR experts like Sarah Chang and Clearwater HR Consulting, they can minimize risk while unlocking the real benefits of a healthy workplace. Website: www.clearwaterhrconsulting.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-chang-77825411 About The A Better HR Business Podcast The A Better HR Business shares strategies, tactics, success stories, and more about marketing for HR consultancies and marketing for HR tech companies, and how to get more clients. Follow the show on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you don't miss future episodes. For show notes and to see details of our previous guests, check out the podcast page here: www.GetMoreHRClients.com/Podcast
Is SEO Enough to Earn Business Profit and Revenue? Marketing Talk with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.In this episode of the We Don't PLAY podcast, host Favour Obasi-Ike delivers a masterclass on the strategic role of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) in today's digital landscape. He dismantles the myth that SEO is a silver bullet, arguing instead that it's a foundational component that must work in concert with a healthy business and other marketing channels. We dive deep into how major shifts, like Google's algorithm changes and the rise of AI-driven search, are making a sophisticated SEO strategy more critical than ever.Tune in to learn how to leverage SEO not just for traffic, but as a powerful data intelligence engine to understand your customers and drive informed business decisions.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!Key Takeaways:SEO is a Necessary Ingredient, Not the Entire Recipe: You can't build a successful business on SEO alone. It cannot fix a bad customer experience, poor operations, or a weak value proposition. True success comes from integrating SEO with other channels like email marketing, advertising, and social media.The Search Landscape is Rapidly Evolving: Major changes are reshaping how we think about SEO. With Google removing traditional numbered pages and the emergence of AI-native browsers like Perplexity AI, strategic SEO is more vital than ever. Content freshness, signaled by the "last modified" date, is becoming a key ranking factor.SEO's Core Value is Data & Intelligence: The most powerful benefit of SEO is the actionable data it provides. By using tools like Google Search Console, you can understand customer intent, identify market needs, and make smarter decisions about product development and advertising. SEO is technically psychology.A Proactive Content Strategy is Non-Negotiable: Success requires planning content months in advance. The lifespan of your content varies dramatically by platform—while an Instagram post lasts ~72 hours, a Pinterest pin can drive traffic for over 5 months, making platform choice a key strategic decision.SEO Must Be Fully Integrated: SEO shouldn't live in a silo. Its power is multiplied when woven into email marketing (optimizing images and landing pages), paid ads (using search data for targeting), and lead conversion. It is the "byproduct" of good marketing practices.Implementation Requires a Clear Model & Timeline: Whether you choose a DIY approach, build an in-house team, or outsource to an agency, achieving results takes time. Expect to see significant traction in 1-3 months for established sites and 3-6 months for new ones—an investment that can define your business's trajectory for years to come.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastSee 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, host, photographer and educator Nikki Closser interviews New Hampshire-based photographer Sunshine White. Sunshine grew her business as a single mom with her studio in the basement of her home, and within her first year in business, brought in over $100k in revenue. Don't miss out on this unique interview with Sunshine!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.
Send us a textIf you earn over $250,000 or plan to sell a highly appreciated asset, this episode could save you hundreds of thousands in taxes. Most business owners stop at basic deductions and retirement plans, but the wealthy use strategies that go far beyond that. In this episode, we break down the five categories of advanced tax planning, when they apply, and how to use them the right way.
Robert Lock went from corporate sales leadership to running supply chain during COVID—then used that “between lanes” moment to launch his own firm, Buffalo Mountain Sales Strategies.In this episode, he and Brett dig into how GenX escapees can win clients by going local-first and relationship-heavy, not enterprise-style transactional.You'll Learn
In this episode, Dominic Rubino chats with Ashley Stuckless—civil contractor, engineer, and founder of High BC Hunting—about how to balance construction business ownership, family life, and high-performance backcountry adventures. If you're a contractor who wants time for family, hunting, or just peace of mind, this episode is for you.
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, host Nikki Closser interviews North Carolina-based photographer Amy Head. Listen in as Amy tells us all about her self-value journey and how it transformed her business. Don't miss this inspiring 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.
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This week's cards say you're carrying too much - and the answer isn't better time management. It's putting things down. I pulled 10 of Wands (you're overloaded), Temperance (integrate what you have), The Lovers (choose what stays), and The Fool (trust the leap). This episode walks you through what that actually means for your week. No more collecting solutions. No more being the glue in every workflow. This week is about release, integration, and creating space for what's next. Your CEO challenge: write down everything you're carrying, then pick one thing to drop. Delegate it, delete it, or defer it to 2026. Then notice what happens. Your 5-day action plan for the week: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPdvl1OjNzg/?img_index=1
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, host Nikki Closser interviews Nashville-based photographer Judith Hill. Judith left her job in the corporate world, and she tells us all about how she did it and managed to create a portrait business that brought her a 6 figure income within the first year. Judith also goes in depth about how she runs her business, markets and keeps clients coming. Don't miss out on this amazing interview!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.
Download Perplexity Comet: AI-native Browser; Web Adoption and Security Talk with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Perplexity AI's free "Comet" web browser, which occurred this past Thursday. We expressed excitement over this development, highlighting Comet's functionality as an AI-powered browser that can import Google Chrome extensions and act as a personal assistant, shopping, and email agent. The conversation extensively examines the implications of Comet's introduction on the browser market share, particularly in relation to the dominance of Google Chrome, and explores how this new tool affects Search Engine Optimization (SEO) strategies and content visibility for businesses. Finally, a significant portion of the discussion addresses crucial concerns regarding user privacy and data security when utilizing these advanced AI tools, emphasizing the need for caution and strategic use.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!FAQs about this episode1. What is the Perplexity AI Comet Browser?Comet is an AI web browser released by Perplexity AI. Comet essentially integrates Perplexity AI capabilities into a browser format. The concept involves having an AI web browser, similar to using Google Chrome but with AI integration.2. When was the Comet browser released, and to whom?The free Comet browser was recently made available to everyone worldwide. It was announced on a Thursday. However, Comet was initially released to people who had Perplexity Max in July. This three-month period (July to October) allowed Perplexity to keep it exclusive within their beta program or exclusive community before releasing it universally.3. How can I download the Comet browser, and what platforms is it available on?You can download the Comet browser by visiting perplexity.ai/comment. It is available for both Mac and Windows.4. What are the key features and capabilities of the Comet browser?The Comet browser offers several features that distinguish it from traditional browsers:• Extension Import: You can import your Google Chrome extensions into the Comet AI browser.• Agentic Capabilities: It is described as a personal assistant that helps with many things. It can: ◦ Autonomously control browser actions, such as closing tabs and opening pages. ◦ Fill out forms. ◦ Control Google Drive. ◦ Shop for you. ◦ Send out emails, leveraging a feature called "background assistant".• Current Focus: It is currently heavily focused on the web, though a mobile app is anticipated, similar to the existing Google Chrome app and Perplexity app.5. Why did Perplexity AI release the Comet browser?Perplexity is doing this to gain market share and compete with major rivals, particularly Google. The current browser market is heavily dominated by Google Chrome, which holds about 72% of the market share (specifically cited as 71.77% to 71.86% recently).6. How is Perplexity AI related to Microsoft and other platforms?Perplexity is closely associated with Microsoft and Bing. The platforms are interconnected, as LinkedIn is also owned by Microsoft. It is noted that Microsoft is also involved with Copilot and is "somewhere in the mix" of OpenAI/ChatGPT content, further connecting it to Comet.7. What are the major concerns regarding security and privacy with agentic AI browsers?The primary concerns revolve around security, privacy, and user adoption. Since the Comet browser can autonomously control browser actions, access Google Drive, and fill out forms, there are questions about how much security is provided.• Data Compromise: One critical concern is that if a company's chosen AI platform (like Comet) lacks necessary security measures, a client could be exposed to a hack, potentially compromising years of hard work.• Lack of Regulation: There is a belief that there is not enough regulation surrounding privacy in the AI space, often favoring convenience and productivity over individual privacy.8. How will AI search browsers impact SEO and business visibility?AI search models are changing how businesses achieve visibility:• Beyond Top 10: AI models are no longer just scanning the top 10 search pages; they are scanning anywhere between 10 to 40 links or sources. Businesses should aim to be in this "Top 40 listing".• Platform Diversity: Visibility is achieved when a brand is interconnected across various platforms, including LinkedIn, YouTube, Google, Pinterest, the website, blogs, videos, audios, and podcasts.• LinkedIn Importance: If Perplexity uses LinkedIn as one of its information sources, having a complete and active LinkedIn profile is significant for search results.• Contextual Content: Content needs to be contextually relevant, moving beyond just typing basic search phrases like "best restaurant near me".• SEO Relevance: SEO remains important; even if AI models like ChatGPT handle e-commerce orders, they are still pulling information from sources with high domain authority, which is based on SEO principles.9. What are the best practices for leveraging AI tools like Comet?Users should adopt a strategic approach when using these new AI tools:• Strategy and Learning: Use AI to strategize, discover different angles, and find solutions to problems you haven't considered. Ask AI how to improve upon an idea or find what is missing from your strategy.• Strategy vs. Dependence: Use AI as a tool to improve yourself and learn, but do not depend on it.• Privacy Protection: Exercise caution regarding privacy. Do not give out personal identifying information (PII) such as your specific address, phone number, or names of family members. Ask general questions instead of highly specific personal ones.• Prompt Awareness: Be aware that all prompts written into ChatGPT are typically indexed into Google unless you change your settings.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
AI SEO: What's the Best Way to Structure Internal Links? Email Marketing Bonus with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.This episode unveils an extensive discussion about the optimal methods for structuring internal links within your website to improve search engine optimization (SEO) and user experience. I explain that internal links should be contextually relevant, often using the analogy of a "sandwich" where the highlighted text (anchor text) aligns directly with the content of the linked URL. The conversation emphasizes that effective internal linking creates a "spiderweb" structure, connecting old and new content to enhance readability and discoverability by algorithms like Google. Finally, I discuss related digital marketing topics, including the benefits of leveraging email marketing platforms like Flodesk for cost efficiency and high deliverability, linking this back to the importance of a strong online structure.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!10 Answer Keys for this episode1. An internal link is a word, phrase, or sentence that is highlighted to become a hyperlink. This link connects the current page to another relevant page or resource that exists within the same website domain.2. The "sandwich" effect occurs when the highlighted text (anchor text) uses the same words or phrase as the keywords found in the destination page's URL. This creates a strong contextual connection that is easily understood by both human users and search engine algorithms, improving the chances of the page ranking for those terms.3. Linking new and old pages creates a "bridge" or a "spiderweb" structure across a website. This practice helps search engines and users discover all related content, regardless of its publication date, ensuring that value is passed between pages and creating more pathways for visitors to find relevant information.4. Linking directly to a checkout page is a strategy to reduce friction and save the customer time, potentially leading to higher conversions, especially if the customer has already seen the product and has all the necessary information. Linking to a product page allows the customer to read more details and make a decision, but it introduces an extra step and risks them getting distracted by other items.5. "Structural marketing" is a concept where marketing efforts are built with discipline, rules, and a foundation, much like a physical structure. The website serves as the foundation, and its pages, connected by internal links, must be active and structured logically to support marketing goals.6. A website's search bar functions like Google's own search. When a user searches for a specific term like "candy" or "flowers," the website pulls results from its own internal index or inventory. If the website's content (the resource) is not properly structured and indexed, the search function (the source) is useless, like a well with no water.7. Local businesses should highlight the text of the city or state they want to be found in and link it to a relevant page. This is a form of on-page SEO that sends a signal to algorithms that the business serves that specific location, which can have a large long-term impact on local search visibility.8. HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. Using an HTTPS link for hyperlinking ensures a clean, direct, and secure pathway for the user and search engine crawlers. Using an HTTPlink can result in a different, less secure experience that might cause the link to bounce back or redirect unnecessarily.9. A "do follow" link signals to search engines that you endorse the destination page and are attributing value or "link juice" to it. A "no follow" link tells search engines that you are citing or suggesting the link but are not endorsing it, so no domain authority or ranking signal is passed.10. When you update and republish one page that is internally linked to many other pages (e.g., 10 or 20), it sends a new signal to search engine algorithms for all connected pages. This one update effectively "republishes" all the linked pages in the eyes of the algorithm, signaling fresh activity across a wide swath of the website without having to manually update each page.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
On today's episode of the podcast I'm breaking down the good, the bad and the ugly of the Big Beautiful Bill and how it impacts small business owners. The “Big Beautiful Bill” passed in July. Trump and the right are calling it a game-changer for small businesses and working families. On the surface, there are a few provisions worth celebrating. But as always, the devil is in the details. Much of the bill's benefit flows upward, not into the hands of true small business owners, freelancers, or everyday entrepreneurs. Let's break it down. The “Good” (At First Glance) There are some shiny pieces in the bill that sound great: Bigger Deduction for Pass-ThroughsOwners of LLCs, sole proprietorships, and S-corps now qualify for a 23% deduction on pass-through income (up from 20%). If you're already making decent money, this can cut your tax bill. If you're curious how this deduction works, I discuss that towards the end of Chapter 4 in the Unf*ck Your Biz book. No Tax on Tips & Overtime (for a while)Tipped income up to $25,000 and overtime pay up to $12,500 can be excluded from taxes between 2025–2028, as long as you fall under certain income thresholds. That's a temporary boost for some service workers. This is a tricky provision that will save some folks some minor taxes. Child Tax Credit BumpFamilies get a small, temporary increase in the Child Tax Credit, nudging it upward by $200. However, the bill also introduced stricter eligibility requirements. To claim the credit, both the taxpayer and the qualifying child must have valid Social Security numbers. This change could exclude millions of children from receiving the credit, particularly affecting low-income families Permanent Expensing for Equipment Businesses can now permanently write off the full cost of qualifying equipment in the year they buy it (100% Section 179 expensing). That's useful if you're investing in new tools, tech, or machinery. Estate & Gift Tax BreaksFamily-owned businesses and farms get higher exemptions from estate and gift taxes, making it easier to transfer assets to the next generation without a huge IRS bill. This expands, once again, tax breaks for the ultra wealthy as the first $13.61 million was already excluded. The “Not So Beautiful” Reality While the headlines sound fabulous, here's what's lurking beneath: Temporary Gimmicks The no-tax-on-tips and overtime breaks expire after 2028. Same with the boosted child credit. They'll feel good for a few years, but unless Congress acts again, they vanish. Skewed Toward the WealthyAccording to the Tax Policy Center, 60% of the tax cuts in the bill would go to the top 20% of households, with more than one-third benefiting those making $460,000 or more. In contrast, the lowest-income 20% would see a tax cut of less than 1%, or about $160 on average, and including the loss of some Affordable Care Act health insurance premium subsidies, their net tax cut would fall to only about $60. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that the top 10% of earners would see incomes rise by 2.7% by 2034 mainly due to tax cuts, while the lowest 10% would see incomes fall by 3.1% due to cuts to programs such as Medicaid and food aid. These analyses highlight the disproportionate distribution of tax benefits, with higher earners receiving significantly more substantial cuts compared to lower-income households. Cuts Elsewhere to Pay for ItTo offset revenue loss, the bill guts key credits for clean energy and electric vehicles—areas where many small businesses and families were saving money. At the same time, it sets the stage for future cuts to social programs like Medicaid and SNAP that working families actually rely on. Deficit ExplosionThe Congressional Budget Office projects this will blow up the federal deficit. And history tells us that when deficits balloon, lawmakers often come for small business programs or the social safety net next. Complexity Creeps InPoliticians called this “simplification,” but the IRS and tax pros now face a mountain of changes to implement. For many small business owners, that means more time with your accountant and more money out of your pocket just to stay compliant. Health Insurance & Medicaid: The Coverage Cliff If you or your team rely on the ACA marketplace, brace yourself: the enhanced premium tax credits that made health insurance more affordable are set to expire at the end of 2025. That means monthly premiums could skyrocket. A 60-year-old couple earning $85,000 could see their annual premium jump from around $7,000 to over $22,000 (Kaiser Family Foundation). On the Medicaid side, the bill makes deep cuts—hundreds of billions of dollars over the next decade. It also reintroduces work-reporting requirements and forces enrollees to reverify eligibility every six months starting in 2027. Millions of people will fall through the cracks, not because they don't qualify, but because the paperwork is too complex or because they lose hours at work. For small businesses, this means: Higher costs if you cover employees. Less stable coverage for staff and contractors. Communities with more uninsured neighbors, which ultimately hurts local economies. The Bigger Picture The bill is marketed as “beautiful” because it offers short-term tax cuts and shiny perks. But it comes with a long-term price tag: exploding deficits, weakened safety nets, and higher health costs for millions. History shows us what comes next: calls for even deeper cuts to programs small business owners actually rely on, like SBA loans, workforce training, and infrastructure. So yes, you might get a slightly bigger deduction today. But tomorrow? You're looking at higher health premiums, fewer community supports, and a more fragile economy to build your business in. That's not so beautiful. My jaded take. Republicans have a tendency to cut programs that make real differences in people's lives, they phase out health care assistance, cut medicaid, and act in favor of large corporations. But then they will throw us all an extra $200 tax credit, send it with a check with Trump's signature. Maybe if we're lucky, we will get a Trump commemorative coin, a hat, or a box of steaks. Wooo. They rely on us remembering the simple things and forgetting about or not understanding the more complex laws they passed that furthers the wealth divide and makes life harder for almost everyone. As always, stay informed, keep your tax pro close, and don't buy the spin just because it comes with a flashy name.
QFF: Quick Fire Friday – Your 20-Minute Growth Powerhouse! Welcome to Quick Fire Friday, the Grow A Small Business podcast series that is designed to deliver simple, focused and actionable insights and key takeaways in less than 20 minutes a week. Every Friday, we bring you business owners and experts who share their top strategies for growing yourself, your team and your small business. Get ready for a dose of inspiration, one action you can implement and quotable quotes that will stick with you long after the episode ends! In this episode of Quick Fire Friday, host Michael Denehey interviews Kathryn McCann, General Manager of Marketing, Public Affairs & Social Impact at the Tasmania Football Club, shares the inspiring journey of building the club from her dining table into a thriving startup with 30+ staff and 215,000 founding members. She reveals how balancing speed with structure, creating a clear plan, and engaging deeply with the community played a vital role in their rapid growth. Kath also highlights the importance of storytelling, building trust, and staying focused on purpose. Her experiences offer powerful lessons in leadership, planning, and customer engagement that every small business owner can apply to succeed. Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Start with Purpose & Principles – Define a clear purpose, simple goals, and operating principles early to guide growth and avoid overwhelm. Build the Right Team – Surround yourself with skilled, high-quality people who can deliver and represent your business well. Engage & Listen to Customers – Actively connect with your community, listen to feedback, and implement it to build trust and loyalty. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Balance Speed & Structure – Move fast enough to grow but create governance and systems that keep the business sustainable. Control the Controllables – Focus on what you can manage, execute with purpose, and let go of factors outside your control. Leverage Storytelling – Share authentic stories about your vision and decisions to connect with people and inspire buy-in. One action small business owners can take: According to Kath McCann, one action small business owners can take is to actively engage with their customers – listen to their feedback, build trust through genuine conversations, and use those insights to guide business decisions. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximize your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.
Send us a textAre you spending money the wrong way? Every dollar is either pre-tax or after-tax money. Knowing the difference is the key to thousands in tax savings.In this episode, we cover how to turn everyday expenses into business deductions. From meals and travel to home office and even hiring your kids, you'll learn the mindset shift that could save you thousands each year.
Flodesk Email Marketing Unlimited Pricing Plan Ends Nov 28! What Do I Do? Technical Talk with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox. Favour Obasi-Ike, an active partner, strongly advocates for the email marketing platform Flodesk.He emphasizes that its unlimited pricing model will end on November 28th and urges listeners to sign up before this date to lock in the beneficial pricing.He highlights Flodesk's robust deliverability through its use of Amazon SES and its superior click-through rates compared to competitors like Constant Contact and Mailchimp.The discussion also touches upon Flodesk's features, such as its comprehensive educational platform ("Flodesk University") and integration capabilities with services like Stripe and Shopify, while differentiating it from project management tools like ClickUp.Ultimately, Favour presents Flodesk as a cost-effective solution for creators and business owners seeking high-quality email marketing and business growth.He offers an affiliate link for a 14-day free trial and a 50% discount.Read the full article on "Join Flodesk Unlimited Pricing Plan by Nov. 28: Here's Why" here: https://www.playinc.online/post/join-flodesk-unlimited-pricing-plan-email-marketingNext Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!The most urgent message is the November 28th deadline to lock in Flodesk's unlimited pricing. This is a critical opportunity to secure cost predictability and avoid future standard pricing. Sign up now to get grandfathered in!Why Flodesk's Value is UnmatchedFlodesk's primary advantage is its unlimited pricing model. For a single flat fee, you get unlimited subscribers, emails, and workflows, leading to significant savings. This is a game-changer for cost efficiency, allowing you to scale without unpredictable costs. Discover how this core value proposition can transform your budget.The Engine Behind Your Success: Superior DeliverabilityA key reason for Flodesk's effectiveness is its technical foundation. It boasts a 17% higher view rate by leveraging Amazon SES, ensuring high deliverability and ensuring your emails land in the inbox, not spam. This technical superiority is the backbone of its high click-through rates.Explore Flodesk's Powerful FeaturesFlodesk is a comprehensive platform built for creators. Explore its full suite of capabilities:Design & Content: Create stunning emails with beautiful templates and embed videos or GIFs.Automation & Workflows: Set up triggered emails and sequences to nurture leads effortlessly.E-commerce Integrations: Seamlessly connect with Stripe and Shopify to sell products directly.Lead Capture: Build landing pages and pop-up forms to grow your list.Customization: Use custom domains and segmentation for a personalized touch.Proven Results: See our DataOur case studies show Flodesk's impact. One user saw click rates jump from 2-5% on Constant Contact to 35-40% with Flodesk. Another client migrated from ConvertKit (Kit) and saw their engagement more than double. The platform was the problem, and Flodesk was the solution.Learn with Flodesk UniversityGet the most out of your subscription with Flodesk University, a free, comprehensive educational platform. Learn everything from basics to advanced strategies without costly onboarding.How Flodesk Stacks UpWhile platforms like Mailchimp, Constant Contact, and Brevo are great, Flodesk differentiates itself with its unlimited pricing, superior aesthetics, and proven deliverability. It's the cost-effective solution for serious business growth.Ready to experience the difference? Use our affiliate link for a 14-day free trial and a 50% discount applied at checkout.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
In this special release episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred reports from the 46th Annual America's SBDC Future of Work Training Event in Orlando, Florida. This episode features a timely and insightful discussion with Jim Colbourne, Wealth Manager, and Bryce Stacy, Service Advisor, both from Merit Financial Advisors. The conversation centers around the importance of wealth management for small business owners, emphasizing the need to separate personal and business finances to ensure financial security and enable successful business exits. Jim and Bryce shed light on common challenges entrepreneurs face, including the co-mingling of assets, lack of succession planning, and the emotional hurdles of retirement. They also address the looming “silver tsunami,” the surge of business owners over age 65, and the critical need for early exit planning. Additionally, Bryce shares insights from their presentation on “Behavioral DNA,” which helps businesses improve team communication and internal dynamics. Whether you're considering retirement or just getting started, this episode provides actionable financial guidance tailored specifically for small business owners. This podcast episode was recorded live at the 46th Annual America's SBDC Training Event hosted at the Hilton Orlando. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: Merit Financial Advisors
Does bookkeeping feel scary, confusing, or like something you keep pushing to “later”? You're not alone—and you don't have to keep avoiding it. This week, I sat down with Sheila Koenig, CPA, former IRS insider, and founder of Checking It Twice Bookkeeping. With 24 years of experience (including 16 in IRS appeals, reviewing over 1,000 small business audits
In this week's episode of Business by The Books, Danielle Hayden, reformed corporate CFO and founder of Kickstart Accounting, Inc., breaks down the real journey from entrepreneur to small business owner to finally stepping into the role of CEO. This isn't about chasing flashy titles or hitting arbitrary revenue goals. It's about clarity, confidence, and understanding your numbers so you can actually lead your business instead of letting it run you. Key Takeaways: Entrepreneur Stage – Building with Instinct: Many entrepreneurs start with passion and creativity but rely only on income goals and bank balances instead of true financial clarity. Danielle explains how this stage can fuel growth, but also stall it. Small Business Owner Stage – Running the Machine: This is where consistent revenue, vendors, and maybe a team come in. But too many owners still try to do it all themselves, which leads to mistakes and burnout. CEO Stage – Leading with Vision and Data: The mindset shifts that happens when you step into your CEO role, where you go from reacting and needing to have your hands in every area of the business to delegating and making intentional, future-focused decisions. Real-Life Client Success – Delaney Fischer's Story: Hear how one client shifted from messy spreadsheets and receipts to clarity and balance once she started seeing her numbers monthly. Topics Discussed: (00:00) Intro: Redefining the CEO Role – Why It's About Clarity, Not Business Size (01:11) The Entrepreneur Stage: Passion-Driven But Missing Profitability (03:37) The Small Business Owner Stage: Transitioning to Systems, Responsibility, and Financial Clarity (06:27) The CEO Stage: Leading with Data, Mindset Shifts, and Future-Focused Planning (08:52) Stepping Into Your CEO Role: How to Stop Doing More and Start Gaining Clarity (09:53) Outro: Kickstart's CFO Services, Like, Share and Subscribe! Resources: CFO Services | https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/the-cfo-solution/ Client Success Story | From Burnout to Balance: Redefining Entrepreneurial Success Through Break-Even Analysis with Delanie Fischer of Self-Helpless Podcast Book a Call with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: https://kickstartaccountinginc.com/book-a-call/ Connect with Kickstart Accounting, Inc.: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/Kickstartaccounting YouTube | https://www.youtube.com/@businessbythebooks Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/kickstartaccountinginc
This podcast features Cameron Richards, LMT and Faiza Tahir of Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa. The central theme is a therapeutic and educational approach to skincare that extends beyond traditional spa facials.Faiza Tahir, an Esthetician with 13 years of experience, specializes in a holistic methodology, combining advanced in-office treatments with client education and at-home care. A core offering is the Face Reality "Acne Boot Camp," a 100-day program designed to clear acne through bi-weekly treatments and a dedicated product regimen.The spa's philosophy emphasizes treating the skin from both the inside and outside, using modern modalities like LED light therapy and providing clients with a deep understanding of product ingredients and proper skin maintenance. The overall client experience is designed to be efficient, with 50-minute sessions and no downtime, aiming to produce tangible results and a feeling of rejuvenation.Business and Contact InformationYou can connect with Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa through multiple channels for information or to book a free consultation.• Business Name: Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa• Location: 113 Jericho Turnpike, Floral Park, NY (on the border of western Queens and eastern Nassau County)• Website: somaticmassagepc.com• Phone (Call): 516-686-9557 ◦ Fisa's Direct Extension: 7• Phone (Text): 516-447-4373• Booking: Can be done online via somaticmassagepc.com/book-appointment or by calling in.• Remote Consultation: Prospective clients can text a picture of their skin concern for an initial assessment from Fisa.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Key Personnel and ExpertiseFaiza Tahir, Esthetician• Experience: 13 years in the aesthetics industry.• Education: Licensed through the New York Institute of Beauty (NYIB).• Certifications: Acne certified by Face Reality.• Dual Expertise: Holds experience working in both day spas and medical spas, giving her proficiency in both "relaxing facials" and "clinical graded facials."• Role: Serves as the Master Esthetician at Somatic Massage Therapy and Spa, performing all facials, peels, and skincare treatments. She is driven by a passion to "make a difference in the skins."Cameron Richards, Licensed Massage Therapist• Role: As a licensed massage therapist, Cameron highlights the critical need for skincare education, which he personally received from Faiza• Perspective: He emphasizes that the average consumer often lacks the knowledge to select appropriate skincare products, potentially causing more harm than good. He notes, "...if I don't know much imagine the average person out there who just walks into a Target Walgreens and just pick up anything off the shelf because they think it's going to work and they end up doing more harm."• Focus on Education: Cameron ensures that education is a key component of the client experience at the spa, particularly for men who may not be aware of proper skin cleansing and exfoliation techniques post-shaving.Core Skincare PhilosophyTherapeutic Treatments over Standard FacialsFaiza distinguishes the spa's services from conventional facials, framing them as targeted treatments.• Quote: "These are not only facials. These are therapeutical treatments we do. We do not use the word treatment at this spa, but these are the therapeutical... facial for them."• Day Spa vs. Med Spa: Fisa clarifies that while med spa products contain highly "active" ingredients used under a doctor's supervision, the spa's professional-grade products are highly effective and bring about significant changes in the skin.A Holistic "Inside and Out" ApproachThe treatment philosophy is comprehensive, addressing skin health from multiple angles.• External Healing: In-office treatments focus on healing the skin from the outside using professional products and modalities.• Internal Healing: Clients are provided with products, such as vitamins from the Face Reality line, to promote healing from within.• Hydration: The importance of hydration, both oral and topical, is stressed for all skin types, including acne-prone and mature skin.Specialized Acne Treatment Program: The Face Reality Boot CampA cornerstone of the spa's offerings is a structured, results-oriented program for acne clients.• Objective: To clear the client's skin within 100 days (approximately 3 months).• Process: 1. Free Consultation: The process begins with a skin analysis and a thorough review of the client's current home care products and their ingredients. 2. Bi-Weekly Treatments: Clients come in every two weeks for in-office procedures. 3. Dedicated Home Care: Clients are instructed to use Face Reality products at home, which Fisa describes as "amazing" and working "like a magic."• Results Timeline: Clients typically begin to see a noticeable difference in their skin after just three weeks of consistent in-office treatments and home care.The Client Journey and Treatment ExperienceConsultation and In-Office Procedure• Initial Step: The client journey starts with a free consultation to analyze the skin and educate the client about products that may be exacerbating their condition.• Treatment Duration: The in-office session is efficient, lasting approximately 50 minutes.• Treatment Steps: A standard session includes cleansing, exfoliation, extractions, and calming the acne.• Client Feedback: Following a treatment, clients report a distinct sensation of freshness. Fisa notes, "Most of my client... they tell me... we are feeling that our skin is breathing now." This is attributed to clearing clogged pores, allowing oxygen to penetrate the skin.Post-Treatment and Downtime• No Downtime: Clients can immediately return to their daily activities.• Minor Side Effects: There may be slight edema (swelling) or redness for 20 minutes to one hour following extractions, but this subsides quickly.Available Technologies and Targeted ConcernsSomatic Massage Therapy and Spa is equipped with modern modalities to address a variety of skin concerns.Technology / Treatment PurposeSaluma LED Light TherapyUtilizes different light wavelengths to treat skin. Red LightUsed to calm down active acne. Blue LightAlso used for acne treatment.Chemical PeelsUsed to treat post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and other concerns.Nano InfusionA procedure to enhance product penetration and skin health.ReferralsClients can be taken to a partner med spa for Micro-needling and PRP.Primary concerns addressed include:• Active Acne• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)• Melasma (lightening and management)• Anti-AgingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Web Optimization: Technical SEO and Content Marketing Best Practices with Favour Obasi-Ike | Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Focusing on web optimization, technical SEO, and content marketing, likened to building a durable house or maintaining a high-performance car. The discussion features several experts who explore strategies for increasing online visibility and revenue, emphasizing the critical role of a strong website foundation, reliable hosting, and effective content creation, particularly through blogs and YouTube, to address customer questions. We also debate the impact of AI on search and the necessity of SEO versus relying on other traffic channels like TikTok, concluding that a unified, authoritative online presence is key to gaining trust and accelerating business growth.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!--------------------------------------------------------------------------------What marketing topics are central to this discussion? The core topics discussed are web optimization, technical SEO, and content marketing.Why are technical setup and content vital for a website? Technical and content aspects should work together to make your website an "optimized place" and an "optimized greenhouse" for your business online. When you combine technical elements and content, you create a much wider network and a more extensive resource.What does the term "optimization" imply? Optimization is equated with consistency. If a website is not being optimized consistently, it is metaphorically stuck, like a car not moving in a driveway.How should a business approach content creation to serve both people and algorithms? Website owners should write for people first, but they must also keep the search algorithm in mind. The goal is to create many pages that interlink, providing a journey from discovery to decision for the user, utilizing various formats like video, audio, infographics, FAQs, or glossaries.How does authorship relate to building credibility online? When content is created on your website, it should be attributed to an author page originating from the person writing the content. Including expert quotes within a blog that has your name attached builds credibility. Furthermore, having your name indexed by Google as a blog author via a profile link can put you ahead of the competition.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Technical SEO and Website FoundationWhat are the fundamental components necessary for a website? The process starts with your domain, followed by your hosting, and then your website. Key technical considerations include where you host the website, the CMS platform used, and how your DNS records are configured.Why is choosing a quality host important? You must have the correct hosting, meaning the host should not go down. Many cheap hosting services put literally thousands of websites on the same servers. It is better to pay more for a higher quality server.How can I monitor if my website is experiencing downtime? You can use free monitoring tools, such as Uptime Robot, which will monitor your website's uptime and send you an alert if the site goes offline.What is a major technical mistake regarding domain names? A "big one" is simply keeping track of your domain name. It is recommended to renew your domain name for a couple of years at a time, rather than just one year.What is the distinction between technical setup and content in an analogy? Technical SEO is like the exterior of a car—the battery, engine, oil, and fluids—determining speed and duration. Content marketing is the interior—the steering wheel, comfort, and aesthetics.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------AI, Schema, and Search StrategyWhat is the relationship between AI, search, and structured websites? The rise of AI suggests a thin line is developing between unstructured websites and structured websites. AI is actively affecting the way people search.What is schema, and how is it used on a website? Schema refers to structured data. When implementing schema on a web page, you should focus on elements like breadcrumbs, FAQs, and price/stock information, as these elements allow you to have a much higher signal. Structured data involves taking unstructured information (like a general blog post) and organizing it using visual elements, examples, statistics, and expert quotes.How can a business influence LLMs (Large Language Models) like ChatGPT? AI platforms (LLMs) seek to grab information. The "secret key" is to release news about your business through press releases. This process helps your information get into Google News, which the LLMs will then pick up.In terms of building authority, what should a business prioritize? The priority is to first be known, as you cannot be trusted if you are not known. Putting out content on how you solve problems is essential for gaining recognition.What specific content strategy is recommended for building authority (e.g., for an auto dealership)? A good strategy is to find long-tail keywords, particularly questions, using tools like ChatGPT or the "People Also Ask" section on Google results. Then, create content answering those questions, allocating one question per blog post. These articles should be at least 300 to 500 words long. To enhance this content, you can create and embed a related YouTube video on that specific blog page.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Content Distribution and Platform UseWhat platforms should be used to support a website's foundation? In addition to a strong website, you should have supporting foundations such as YouTube, social media, or news outlets. The game is distribution; the more you can distribute your content, the more you can increase your capacity.If a client is highly successful using a non-search channel (like TikTok), is SEO necessary? If a client has an amazing traffic funnel on a channel like TikTok or YouTube, they do not necessarily need SEO; they should focus on doing more of what is already working. However, if the market relies more on search, setting up a broad SEO net is highly recommended.What is the key difference in content interaction between Pinterest and Instagram? On Instagram, you can save a post, but you cannot click on the image to go to a destination link outside of the platform (unless you use the link in the bio). On Pinterest, you can click on an image, and it will take you to a destination link, providing a "soft backlink".What unique data intelligence does Pinterest provide to business owners? While Instagram saves are private, a business owner with a Pinterest business account can see the names of the boards that users saved their pins to (if the boards are public). This information tells the business owner what context the user assigned to the content (e.g., "mentorship," "food"). This data intelligence allows the business to create more relevant content.What category of platform is Pinterest considered? Pinterest is viewed as a hybrid of both search and social. People use Pinterest to plan.Why is it important to consider factors like font size in web content? When optimizing content, size matters. A font size of 20 pixels will likely be read faster than a font size of 12 pixels, as people often skim or scan content rather than reading every detail. Similarly, small text in emails can be ignored because people do not want to squint.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Glossary Term & DefinitionAuthorshipThe practice of associating content with a specific person or brand name. This builds credibility and helps Google and other search algorithms recognize the entity as an expert, which can improve search rankings.CMS (Content Management System)The software platform used to build and manage a website's content. The choice of CMS is a foundational technical decision that impacts how a site is built and maintained.Content MarketingThe strategic practice of creating and distributing various forms of media (text, audio, video, images) to attract and engage a target audience. In the session's car analogy, it represents the "interior" of the car—the user's experience.DeepseekAn AI search tool mentioned as an alternative to ChatGPT. It was noted for providing more detailed, contextual answers compared to just a list of questions, suggesting it performs a deeper data crawl.LLMs (Large Language Models)The AI systems, like ChatGPT, that power modern search and chat platforms. These models crawl the web for information, and the discussion focuses on how to get a website's content indexed and recommended by them.llms.txtA file, similar to robots.txt for search engines, that is intended to control how AI Large Language Models crawl and use a website's content.PinterestDescribed as a "hybrid of both search and social," this platform is highlighted as a powerful tool for web optimization. It functions like "Google Images," driving traffic through clickable pins and providing deep user insights through public board names.Press ReleaseA news announcement distributed to media outlets. It is presented as a key tactic to get a business featured in Google News, which helps it get noticed by LLMs and establishes the business as "known."SchemaA form of structured data markup added to a website's code. It helps search engines understand the content more deeply, enabling features like FAQs, price ranges, and breadcrumbs in search results, which is crucial for ranking in AI-driven search.Sigmoid CurveA concept mentioned by John to describe the adoption rate of new technology. It illustrates that different demographics (e.g., older vs. younger generations) are at different points on the curve in their adoption of tools like AI search.Technical SEOThe process of optimizing the technical aspects of a website to improve its performance and crawlability for search engines. In the session's car analogy, it represents the "exterior" and "under the hood" components like the engine and battery, which dictate speed and reliability.Uptime RobotA free online tool recommended for monitoring a website's availability. It alerts the owner if their website goes down, preventing loss of traffic and revenue from unnoticed outages.Web OptimizationA consistent, ongoing process of improving a brand's entire online presence, not just the main website. It involves technical SEO, content marketing, and leveraging surrounding platforms (like YouTube and Pinterest) to drive traffic and engagement.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
S5:325 In this episode of Small Business Stories, host Dr. LL sits down with Emil Abedian, CEO of Council CPAs and newly minted author of Council to Council. Emil shares candid lessons from 15+ years in entrepreneurship, scaling from a solo CPA to a trusted partner for law firms nationwide.
S5:325 In this episode of Small Business Stories, host Dr. LL sits down with Emil Abedian, CEO of Council CPAs and newly minted author of Council to Council. Emil shares candid lessons from 15+ years in entrepreneurship, scaling from a solo CPA to a trusted partner for law firms nationwide.
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Google Celebrates 27th Year Anniversary:
Susan Dawson, Founding Partner at Navigant Law Group, joins Jon Hansen on Let's Get Legal to discuss representing small business owners and the importance of estate planning before it’s crunch time. For more information, call (847) 253-8800 for a free consultation.
Send us a textWhat happens when you take a real small business owner, put them in the hot seat, and break down their tax strategy live? That's what we're doing in this episode.Eric runs a successful appraisal business, pays himself through an S-Corp, and last year wrote a $50,000 check to the IRS. Did he really have to? Mike digs into Eric's setup and reveals how simple shifts could slash his tax bill. From adjusting his salary to using the Augusta Rule, hiring kids, and planning for real estate, you'll see how the right strategy can cut thousands off your tax bill.
John is a business and executive coach, trained and certified in the FocalPoint Model. He teaches and coaches on the stunning value of Generous activity as a theme for business and life success. John's clients are Entrepreneurs, Small Business Owners and Leaders John is the Author of Checkmate: Winning Tactics for Translating Ideas into Money and the creator of the LifeShine Generosity Coaching and Business Success Blueprint programs. John's Website: www.businesswhitt.com
Mike Switzer interviews David Lominack, commercial market president for South Carolina at TD Bank in Greenville, SC.
We're starting something brand new together — a three-part series called SEO Made Simple.Hosted by Kelly Zugay of With Grace and Gold® — The Brand It, Build It Podcast, a chart-topping small business marketing podcast, equips you to build and grow your creative small business with purpose and strategy.Podcast Show Notes: https://withgraceandgold.com/category/podcast/With Grace and Gold on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/withgraceandgoldFree Resources from With Grace and Gold: https://www.withgraceandgold.com/freeHonored as Showit Designer of the Year, With Grace and Gold® has proudly served thousands of small businesses and creative founders worldwide through award-winning, elevated, purpose-driven brand and Showit web design since 2014. For custom brand design services, custom Showit web design services, and easy-to-customize Showit website templates for fine art photographers, event planners, wedding professionals, interior designers, and creatives, please visit With Grace and Gold: www.withgraceandgold.com
Small Business Sales & Strategy | How to Grow Sales, Sales Strategy, Christian Entrepreneur
Learn more about She Builds Momentum, my monthly group coaching membership for women in business: https://momentum.lindsayfletcher.co Are you already feeling the weight of Q4—holidays, kids' activities, and running your business—all at once? You're not alone. As small business owners, we're often told that success only comes from hustling harder, working 24/7, and showing up on every single platform. But here's the truth: hustle culture is a lie, and it's costing you your peace, your joy, and sometimes even your profits. In today's episode of How to Grow My Small Business, I'm getting real about hustle culture, margin, and why constantly being “busy” isn't the badge of honor we think it is. Instead of cramming 20 pounds of potatoes in a five-pound sack (yes, I've been guilty of that!), I want to show you how to break free from overcommitment, set boundaries, and create space to breathe in both your life and your business. We'll talk about: The symptoms of hustle culture you might be experiencing right now (think exhaustion, snapping at loved ones, or feeling out of control). The roots of busyness—fear of failure, pride, misplaced identity—and how they might be driving your decisions. Biblical examples of rest and margin that model how we're meant to live and lead, not hustle endlessly. Practical ways to create space in your business, from delegating tasks like bookkeeping or social media to evaluating your calendar and cutting what doesn't serve you. How margin can fuel creativity, problem-solving, and long-term growth in your business. If you've ever woken up already overwhelmed, ended your day still exhausted, or felt like you can't keep up no matter how much you accomplish, this episode will encourage you to step off the hamster wheel and choose a better way. It's time to unsubscribe from hustle culture and start running your business with strategy, clarity, and margin. Let's break up with busy—together. Resources and Links: Learn more about She Builds Momentum, my monthly group coaching membership for women in business: momentum.lindsayfletcher.co Connect with me at hello@lindsayfletcher.co
Technical SEO Study with Favour Obasi-Ike: Website Speed / Content Delivery Network (CDN) / Content Management System (CMS) = Why Is My Website Slow?| Get exclusive SEO newsletters in your inbox.Technical SEO is a major common issue for websites causing them to start loading slowly. We discuss that slow speeds are often caused by poor hosting platforms lacking sufficient bandwidth and uncompressed media, particularly images and videos.Crucially, we emphasize the importance of acquiring and maintaining intellectual property ownership, including the domain and C panel (Control Panel) access, to prevent developers from holding site information hostage.Additionally, the conversation highlights technical aspects like utilizing a Content Delivery Network (CDN), compressing files using tools like compressor.io, and employing proper image file types and alt text for improved search engine optimization.Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!Answer Key1. What is "Technical SEO"? Technical SEO, or "technical search engine (everywhere) optimization," refers to the technical methods used to ensure a brand or business shows up on web servers and desired websites, typically in the form of a link. It involves optimizing the underlying infrastructure of a website to improve its visibility and performance in search results.2. Identify and explain the two primary factors discussed that cause a website to load slowly. The two primary factors are the hosting platform and the presence of numerous uncompressed images. A poor hosting platform may have insufficient bandwidth or be an overloaded shared server, while large, uncompressed image files significantly increase the amount of data a user must download, slowing the entire loading process.3. What is a "high bounce rate," and how does it relate to a website's performance? A high bounce rate occurs when a visitor comes to a website and leaves quickly without interacting further. This is often caused by slow loading times, as users lack the patience to wait for content; another website might provide the same information three seconds faster, which is enough to make a user leave.4. Define what a Content Delivery Network (CDN) is and name the two types of servers that comprise its network. A CDN, or Content Delivery Network, is a system that stands between a website's hosting (the origin) and the end-user. It caches and compresses website files, like images, across multiple geographic locations to deliver them to users more quickly. The two types of servers within a CDN are the origin server, where the website's original content is stored, and the edge server, which is geographically closer to the end-user and delivers the cached content.5. Why is it crucial for a business owner to have direct ownership of their website's hosting server? Direct ownership of the hosting server ensures control over one's intellectual property and prevents being held "hostage" by a developer. If a business is on someone else's overloaded shared server, performance issues on one site can affect all sites (a "domino effect"). Owning the server provides direct access to the control panel, backups, and the website's blueprint, which is vital for management and troubleshooting.6. Explain the role of "alt text" and how it contributes to a website's visibility and accessibility. Alt text, or alternative text, is a description added to an image's code. It provides context to search engines like Google and AI indexers, making the images searchable and improving the site's overall SEO. Furthermore, alt text is critical for accessibility, as it allows screen reading software to describe the image to visually impaired users.7. What is a "cPanel," and what critical functions can be performed by accessing it? "cPanel" stands for Control Panel. It is the administrative dashboard for a website's hosting server. Accessing the cPanel is critical because it allows a user to get backup data, access the actual blueprint of the website, and see technical details like the file sizes of stored images.8. Describe the significant negative impact that uncompressed images can have on a website, using the specific numerical example from the discussion. Uncompressed images drastically increase a website's loading time because of their large file size. The example given was an online store with 50 products, each with two image variations. If each uncompressed image is 5 megabytes, the total data added to the site's front-loading speed would be 500 megabytes, whereas compressing those same images could reduce the total size to just 50 megabytes (10% of the original) without losing quality.9. What are the two recommended methods for incorporating video content on a website without negatively affecting its load speed? We strongly advises against directly uploading video files (e.g., MP4s). Instead, the two recommended methods are: 1) converting the video into a GIF and uploading the much smaller GIF file, or 2) embedding the video from a third-party platform like YouTube, which ensures the video is streamed from YouTube's servers and not the website's own server.10. Name at least three free tools mentioned that can be used to analyze a website's performance and health. Three of these are GTmetrix, Google Page Speed Insights, and Siteliner. Other mentioned tools include Compressor.io and iLoveIMG.com for image compression and iLovePDF.com for documents.Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Meet Rob Hoffmann, the founder of the AI SEO LLM marketing tool "Mentions." Our conversation focuses on the evolving landscape of search engine optimization (SEO) due to the rise of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Claude, Grok, DeepSeek, and Perplexity etc,, which are becoming alternatives to traditional Google search. Rob Hoffmann discusses his journey into entrepreneurship, which started with an SEO agency called Contact, and how the need to track and improve brand visibility on these new AI platforms led to the creation of Mentions, which helps brands appear in LLM recommendations.Throughout our interview, Rob Hoffmann emphasizes the importance of reverse engineering consumer behavior, the need for excellent customer service (even providing his direct phone number to customers), and the affordability of mentions compared to competitors. Our discussion concludes with practical advice for businesses on determining if investing in LLM visibility is worthwhile based on their customer's buying journey.FAQs1. What is Mentions, and why was it founded?Mentions is a tool that assists brands and SEO agencies in navigating the evolving search landscape dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Models (LLMs).Founding Rationale:• Mentions was born out of Rob Hoffmann's SEO agency, Contact.• The shift was necessitated by the recognition that SEO had "changed a lot" recently in response to AI, with search trends moving away from Google and "towards platforms like ChatGPT" (along with Perplexity, Gemini, Claude, etc.).• The founding goal was to be "the SEO agency of the future".• The tool was specifically created to solve two problems: providing a way of measuring brands visibility on LLM platforms, and helping brands get more visibility on platforms like ChatGPT.2. Why are LLMs becoming preferred search alternatives, and how does this affect marketing?People are increasingly turning to LLMs because consumer trust in traditional Google search results (the SERP's top 10 links) has declined, as many users feel these results have been "gamed" by marketers.• Trust in ChatGPT: Conversely, trust in ChatGPT is "through the roof". This is because the chat-based interface makes interaction feel like a conversation with a friend or even a therapist, providing personalized responses from an "all-knowing AI entity".• Customer Acquisition Channel: Because ChatGPT is becoming a frequently used search engine alternative, showing up in its responses when a user searches for a product (e.g., "what is the best organic sulfite free shampoo") is seen as a "great customer acquisition channel".3. How does the mention tool conceptualize LLM visibility (GEO)?Mentions is built on the understanding of how modern LLMs generate answers: LLM + search operator = the result.• The Process: When a user inputs a query (e.g., "what is the best shampoo for dry scalps"): 1. The LLM searches the internet (like Bing or Google). 2. It scrapes the top 10 to 20 results that show up on those search engines. 3. It digests, summarizes, and serves that information to the user.• The Strategy: For a brand to achieve visibility in LLMs (GEO), they must first show up in those underlying search results (traditional SEO). Mentions helps brands reverse engineer the process by figuring out how platforms like ChatGPT get their data and, critically, what sources they are citing to provide responses, thereby guiding the brand to become a cited source.4. What are the key features of the mentions platform?Mentions helps users understand and optimize their content strategy based on LLM data.• Prompts Section (Favorite Feature): This allows users to track specific searches or prompts. When tracking a prompt, mentions shows examples of conversations and, most usefully, lists the pages that are most being cited by ChatGPT. This list provides an "easy road map" for the brand to know whether they should create new content or reach out to those listed publishers to get mentioned.• Analytics Feature: This feature pulls data from Google Analytics 4 (J4) into an easy-to-use dashboard. It helps users see which pages on their website people are visiting most often from LLMs (such as ChatGPT or Perplexity), along with geographical data and device usage (mobile vs. desktop). The founder notes that seeing this traffic is often a "magical experience" for users.• Tracking Cadence (24-Hour Clock): Mentions inputs tracked prompts into all supported LLMs (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, Deepseek, etc.) every 24 hours. This is essential because LLM responses are not identical on every search (the overlap is about 70%), so regular, repeated testing ensures the collection of a large data set, which increases the accuracy of the insights provided.5. Who should invest in mentions or GEO (LLM visibility)?The decision to use mentions depends entirely on the company's buyer journey.• Yes, Use Mentions If: If the company's buyer journey involves the ideal customer having a problem and then searching for an answer in Google or Chat GBT to inform their buying decision, then investing in SEO and GEO (LLM visibility) is recommended. If the end customer uses ChatGPT to inform their buying decision, then mentions is advisable.• No, Don't Use Mentions If: If the product is an impulse buy (e.g., a consumer package goods product seen on TikTok or Instagram that prompts an immediate purchase), then search engines like Google or ChatGPT are not part of the buyer journey, and SEO/GEO is likely not the best investment of marketing resources.6. How does mentions handle customer service and support?Customer service is a highly emphasized competitive advantage and value proposition for mentions.• Direct Access: Rob Hoffmann, the CEO and co-founder, gives his personal phone number, WhatsApp, email, and allows customers to contact him on social media (X/Twitter). This is done to avoid the frustration associated with generic AI chatbots, calling hotlines, or being put on hold.• Personalized Onboarding: He finds it helpful to get on calls with users (or a co-founder) to provide a live demo, walk them through the platform, suggest useful features, and look at their specific site.• Commitment to Resolution: Hoffmann promises that if a user has a question, he will answer it; if they encounter a bug, he will fix it (or ping a technical co-founder); and if they request a new feature, "we will ship that for you". Customers can literally pick up the phone and call him directly if they run into an issue.7. How can people start using mentions?To get started, users should go to the website mentions.so and create an account.After creating an account, they will receive an email that allows them to book a call directly with Rob Hoffmann. He also welcomes connections via LinkedIn or X (search for Rob Hoffman), or email rob@contactststudios.com to connect with Rob today!Next Steps for Digital Marketing + SEO Services:>> Need SEO Services? Book a Complimentary SEO Discovery Call with Favour Obasi-Ike>> Need more information? 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!Digital Marketing SEO Resources:>> 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 PodcastBrands We Love and SupportDiscover Vegan-based Luxury Experiences | Loving Me Beauty Beauty ProductsSee 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 The Portrait System Podcast, we are re-releasing a very special episode where host Nikki Closser interviews Boston-based empowerment photographer Lindsay Hite. Listen in as Lindsay tells us all about how she connects with clients through consultation and how she built her business up to a $5k sales average. Don't miss out on this incredible interview!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.
Send us a textMost business owners are driving right past thousands in tax savings without realizing it. In 2025, the IRS raised the standard mileage rate to 70 cents per mile, but that's only the beginning.In this episode, Mike breaks down exactly how to structure your auto deductions, avoid costly mistakes, and choose between the mileage method and actual expenses.
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, host, educator and photographer Nikki Closser interviews Abygail and Juan Padilla. Abygail and Juan have achieved amazing success shooting quinceneaneras with an average sale of $4500. Listen in as they tell us all about how they run, shoot and market their thriving business. Don't miss out on today's interview!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.
Get actionable strategies for your business delivered weekly to your inbox. Subscribe to The FoundHer Files. No fluff. No gatekeeping. Just what works...because we're better together. SUBSCRIBE HEREFrom Starbucks tables to Taylor Swift's spotlight to Nordstrom shelves, Melinda Maria Spigel has built a jewelry empire on vision, grit, and fearless self-advocacy. Joining Lindsay Pinchuk in this episode, Melinda shares how she turned handmade pieces into a multimillion-dollar brand by trusting her instincts, funding growth in unconventional ways, and pushing past rejection until doors opened. Melinda reflects on the viral moment Taylor Swift wore her “Julian Loves Diamonds” necklace during the Eras Tour, why persistence mattered more than luck when Nordstrom finally took a chance on her, and how a relentless belief in her product carried her through every stage of growth. Her story leaves entrepreneurs with three powerful reminders: keep betting on yourself even when no one else does, treat rejection as a doorway instead of a wall, and understand your numbers as deeply as you understand your craft.Episode Breakdown:00:00 Believing in Yourself and Your Business05:07 Early Passion for Jewelry08:07 Selling Jewelry at Starbucks10:09 Winning Game Shows for Seed Money16:37 Self-Advocating and Building Connections27:08 Persistence Pays Off with Nordstrom39:32 Melinda's Actionable Advice for EntrepreneursConnect with Melinda Maria Spigel:Follow Melinda Maria on InstagramRegister for our FREE Sweep Workshop: The No Fluff Marketing Framework for Small Business Owners. Get on the waitlist for Marketing Made Simple for Small Business. Check out today's female founded brandsJessica's Natural Granola PvolveTaja CollectionEVEREVE Camp Jacket Parke Official Follow Dear FoundHer on InstagramPodcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lisa Mulrain. Role: Finance attorney, senior executive in the federal government, founder of Legacy Building LLCMission: To bridge the financial literacy gap for minority communities, emerging professionals, and small business owners, promoting lasting economic confidence and stability.
Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lisa Mulrain. Role: Finance attorney, senior executive in the federal government, founder of Legacy Building LLCMission: To bridge the financial literacy gap for minority communities, emerging professionals, and small business owners, promoting lasting economic confidence and stability.