Makers Mean Business® with Damon Oates and Parker Stelly of DecoExchange®

In this final episode in our shipping mini series, Parker is sharing some final tips about improving efficiency and impact when it comes to shipping processes. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

This week is part 4 of our mini-series, Ship Smart: Navigating Shipping Challenges for Handmade Businesses. Today, we are talking all about issues that might come up when you're shipping in your business. You've probably heard of these issues or even experienced them as either the shipper or the customer, but Parker is showing us all a peek behind the curtain so we can see how these common shipping issues are handled at DecoExchange. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In Part 3 of Ship Smart: Navigating Shipping Challenges for Handmade Businesses, Parker is talking about cost strategies: saving money, planning for shipping costs, and so much more. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

This is part 2 of Ship Smart: Navigating Shipping Challenges for Handmade Businesses. This week, Parker is talking about packaging solutions. From protecting products in transit, to enhancing the customer experience, figuring out your packaging solutions is a huge, important step to running your handmade business. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

For the next few weeks, Parker is talking all about shipping. It's one of the most important parts of running a handmade business and there is a LOT that goes into it. In this episode, Parker is covering the basics: an introduction to the fundamental aspects of shipping logistics from packaging to delivery, choosing the right shipping carrier, and explaining shipping terminology. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Today, Parker is sharing some tips and strategy for listing and selling products online. From Etsy tips, to photography and SEO, to marketing strategies for creatives selling products online, this episode is covering some high level basic tips you can start using right away. If you liked this episode and want even more support with listing and selling online, even down to showing you the step-by-step of what to click to set up your listings, you don't want to miss our upcoming workshop. Sign up here: https://thelistingstrategy.com/ --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Y'all, we're wrapping up Live Selling with this week's episode all about Advanced Live Selling Strategies. Now we usually don't use the word "advanced" around here because we like to keep things simple and accessible for everyone. But whether you've been in business for awhile or you've built up to this episode by listening to the 6 that came before it, Parker thinks you might be ready for some more advanced tips this week. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Community is one of the most valuable reasons to sell on live video (or to go live at all!). That's what Parker is talking all about in Part 6 of the mini series, "Mastering Live Sales: A Handmade Seller's Guide." Parker provides tips for cultivating community during a live video in this episode. Also, he explains how this opportunity to react quickly and interact directly with our audiences is the biggest way we can set ourselves apart from the bigger corporate competitors. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Part 5 of "Mastering Live Sales: A Handmade Seller's Guide" is all about what happens after you show up for a live sale! First and foremost, congratulations and take a moment to be proud of yourself for showing up. It isn't easy to put yourself out there live! Now that you've made some sales live, you're going to have to spend some time processing orders and payments, and gathering information like shipping addresses. You'll also want to spend some time assessing how you think it went and what you might want to do again in the future and what you would like to do differently. Learn more about the steps to take after the "live" part of your live sale is over in today's episode. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In Part 4 of "Mastering Live Sales: A Handmade Seller's Guide," Parker is talking about all the technical setup behind a smooth live sale. Choosing Your Equipment: From smartphones to professional gear, what you need for high-quality video. Lighting and Sound Basics: How to ensure you are seen and heard clearly. Dealing with Technical Glitches: Preparing for and managing technical issues during your live event --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Part 3 of the "Mastering Live Sales: A Handmade Seller's Guide" is Engaging & Selling to Your Live Audience. Parker is sharing some of his best presentation tips including giving us some (almost) scripts to practice which make selling on video easier. He's also helping us with how to showcase products effectively and interactive selling techniques (especially considering most people watch our videos as replays). --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Part 2 of Mastering Live Sales (which is also applicable to Mastering Live Video in general), Parker is digging into planning and preparation. From setting goals and objectives, to creating a run sheet, to promoting your live event, this episode includes all the planning and preparation steps to make your live sale event as successful as possible. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In this new season, Parker is breaking down Mastering Live Sales. This week is an introduction to live selling: the benefits of using video, overcoming common objections, choosing the right platform to sell on, and preparing for your first live sale. If you could use a boost in sales and are looking for more ways to connect with your audience, you're going to love this new mini-series. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In the final part of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker is getting more personal and sharing his own journey with building resilience. Resilience is a tough concept both in business and in personal affairs, but when you blend consistency and persistence with resilience, you can do anything. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In part 6 of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker discusses audience engagement. This episode explores the concepts of transparency, different communication methods for interaction and trust, and learning from mistakes to develop resilience and push through challenges. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In part 5 of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker planned to discuss excellence in customer service, but has pivoted to focus instead on leveraging customer feedback for growth. Listen in for Parker's tips about setting boundaries with customers, creating policies based on customer feedback, implementation of business policies for customer satisfaction, and more. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In part 4 of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker explores some of the biggest lessons and takeaways learned from a big business mistake that happened last month with the DecoExchange subscription box. From the importance of mindset and self-talk, to flexibility, to processes and procedures that help you run your business proactively instead of reactively, Parker has some massive tips to share in this episode. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In part 3 of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker explores how beautiful the community is attached to DecoExchange and how powerful it is to have such strong connections with your customers when mistakes happen. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In part 2 of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker is diving into the importance of transparency as a core value in business, and how Damon & Parker leveraged transparency when responding to a significant mishap in their subscription box business this past month. As a bonus tip, Parker also shares how he leveraged AI to help him outline this 7-part series and how you can use AI in your business, too. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

In part 1 of the Navigating Business Challenges: A Maker's Journey to Resilience 7-part podcast series, Parker explains a recent major mishap that occurred in our subscription box business. Plus, he's giving you a sneak peek into what to expect in the next 6 episodes. --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Parker is COMMITTED... to 7 more podcast episodes! We're excited to bring you this 7-part series around navigating business challenges, inspired by a pretty significant challenge we faced in our business this past month. Make sure you follow or subscribe wherever you like listening to podcasts so you can follow along with these next 7 episodes! --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Tell us what you want to hear from us: https://damonoates.kartra.com/survey/RxatFezkE8Xc?fbclid=IwAR008vWrNhvIuOg6j-Yqks0vwJs-_Met2TciC-NNEQoR7QGkH0A5oiftlts --------------------- Join The Makers University: https://themakersuniversity.com/ Learn more: http://makersmeanbusiness.com Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

This week, Parker gets to sit down with Nicole Stevenson of Dear Handmade Life for an interview of intimate stories and practical advice for living a creative life filled with intention and purpose. For more info on all the amazing things Nicole and Dear Handmade Life are working on, check it out at their website: https://dearhandmadelife.com/ --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

This week we are catching up with Melissa Morrow (otherwise known at Mellie Mel) about her experience at Wreath Makers Live 2021. For more info on the conference and all the speakers and sponsors, you can check out https://wreathmakerslive.com/ --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Today's episode is a recap and overview of Allie DeMoss's talk at Wreath Makers Live, all about using Pinterest for your creative business! For more info on the conference and all the speakers and sponsors, you can check out https://wreathmakerslive.com/ --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Today's episode is all about Parker's talk (and experience speaking on stage) at Wreath Makers Live. For more info on the conference and all the speakers and sponsors, you can check out https://wreathmakerslive.com/ --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

This week, Roberto is back and dropping some wisdom all about collaborating and NOT doing business alone, inspired by his talk and experience at Wreath Makers Live. For more info on the conference and all the speakers and sponsors, you can check out https://wreathmakerslive.com/ --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Okay, okay, we heard you - you miss the podcast! Thank you so much for the love and support. We're not sure if Damon is going to keep going with this whole podcasting thing, but Parker is back by popular demand with a few more episodes in the pipeline. It was SO much fun getting to see everyone at Wreath Makers Live. In fact, it was such a high energy, high impact event that we wanted to spend some time recapping some of the amazing speakers and their topics. We were so thrilled to host speakers like Roberto Candelaria, Warren Carlyle, Christine Jerry, Allie DeMoss, Julie Siomacco, Marissa Sayers, and of course... Damon and Parker themselves. For more info on the conference and all the speakers and sponsors, you can check out https://wreathmakerslive.com/ --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

This week we are talking to all of you selling on Etsy! It's important that you understand how to use SEO (Search Engine Optimization) to help your customers find your products. So what is SEO, anyway? It's how customers are searching for you online! Here are the main tips that Damon covers in this episode: 1. Understand who you're selling to! You need to identify your "perfect person" or ideal customer. If you need some help with this, check out our training at WIMPPS.com (WIMPPS stands for Who is My Perfect Person) 2. Identify how your customer speaks and searches. You want to use the same words and phrases they do! (For example, would they call it "rustic" or "farmhouse?") 3. Brainstorm how they would describe your product to determine your title. Keep it simple! They don't know the technical details of all your materials. What are they looking for? 4. The big kahuna: Damon is breaking down all the Etsy lingo... from categories, to attributes, to titles, tags, and more! You don't want to miss this. In order to start with step 1: knowing your ideal customer, we've created an awesome training just for you called Who is My Perfect Person. Check it out at WIMPPS.com! You can also text the word "resources" to 504-553-3451 to get our free Getting Started checklist! --------------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

We're back with Episode 33... and an explanation of where we've been. Have you ever felt inauthentic in your business? That's how Damon felt about his podcast presence. So, for season 2, he's back with a new fervor for authenticity. And, in this first episode, he is giving you his 5 best tips for authenticity in YOUR business! 1. Love what you do - passion trumps skills every time 2. Hire authentic people - surround yourself with a team as passionate about your community and value as you are 3. Acknowledge your weaknesses - list them out and be honest about the fact that YOU don't have to do EVERYTHING in your business yourself 4. Talk to everyone - your entire business matters at all levels, so you need to be in touch with every person who works in your business 5. Make customer connections - show up where your customers are, talk to them, hear their concerns, and build your own reputation Most importantly: Be Yourself. Stop trying to be a cookie cutter business. The key to being successful is to just be yourself. If you liked this episode, we want to hear from you. Text Damon directly at 504-553-3451. --------------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly Don't forget that you can text Damon directly at 504-553-3451

Can you believe this is already EPISODE 32?! Y'all, time flies when you're having fun. Parker sat down to recap all the amazing content that has been covered so far in the podcast. Here's a quick reference in case there's an episode you want to go back and check out (or listen again!): Episode 001 - 6 Tips to Battle Impostor Syndrome Episode 002 - Getting Started, Failure, and the BIGGEST Myth about Business that NEEDS to be Busted! Episode 003 - Introduction to Subscription Boxes (Sarah Williams) Episode 004 - Story of a Maker (Kari Gustafson) Episode 005 - Story of a Maker (Clara-Nicole) Episode 006 - Intro to Facebook Ads (Gretchen Wheeler) Episode 007 - How to Sell More on Etsy (Lauren Kilgore) Episode 008 - Who is my Perfect Person? (WIMPPs) Episode 009 - Let Making Bring You Joy (Andrea Brown) Episode 010 - Building a Community on Instagram (Warren Carlyle) Episode 011 - Story of a Maker (Rhonda Nickerson) Episode 012 - Scaling Your Business with Assistants Episode 013 - Story of a Maker (Christine Jerry) Episode 014 - Intro to SEO (Christine Jerry) Episode 015 - Story of a Maker (Mellie Mel) Episode 016 - Creating Quality Video Content Episode 017 - Community over Competition (Tamara Bennett) Episode 018 - Quick Win Weekend Episode 019 - Story of a Maker (Amy Smith) Episode 020 - SIO (Simplify, Implement, Optimize) Episode 021 - Story of a Maker (Zach Hufnagel) Episode 022 - 3 Keys to Selling Online Episode 023 - Parker's Tips for Youtube Success Episode 024 - Community of Customers Episode 025 - Create with Your Customers (Jillian Leslie) Episode 026 - Making Content for the Platform (Facebook, Instagram, Youtube, TikTok, Pinterest, Blogging) Episode 027 - Using Live Video & Embracing Imperfection (Brooke Riley) Episode 028 - Makers and Trademarks (Emily D. Baker) Episode 029 - All Things MLM (Marissa Sayers) Episode 030 - Maximize the Power of Relationships (Roberto Candelaria) Episode 031 - Selling Digital Products (Joy) Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly

Today's interview is with Joy from Alphalicious Designs. She's a maker with a completely digital business... which means NO SHIPPING! She designs embroidery and cut files and sells them as digital downloads on both Etsy and Shopify, and even though her designs are small items for less than $5 apiece, she still maintains a 6-figure online business! Tune in to hear about the resources she used to get started, how she overcame no natural drawing ability to become a 6-figure designer, and her tips for other online business-owners. You can check out Joy's website here: https://alphaliciousdesigns.com/ Her Etsy here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AlphaliciousApplique?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=606763247 Her Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/alphaliciousdesigns/ And join her Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/alphaliciousdesignsclub/ ------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly

On this week's episode, Parker and Roberto Candelaria are talking all about maximizing relationships in order to network and grow your business! Everyone needs relationships to succeed in business - whether that's building a network for sponsors, affiliates, or building your own community... it's essential to build authentic relationships with the people around you. There are tons of people around you, and you are building relationships with them - either intentionally or unintentionally - all the time. So it is critical to consider what you want to be known as - or known for. Who do you want to be? Roberto believes you need to be asking yourself a few other important questions, as well. What do you bring to the table? And what do you hope to get from the table? It's not just about making sales, it's about finding more people you can serve, and also about making connections with people who can serve you. You can learn more about Roberto on his website: https://robertocandelaria.com/ He also has a Facebook group called Community Growth & Profits! Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/propelyourprofits ------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly

This episode is all about MLM! What is MLM, you might be asking? It stands for Multi-Level Marketing... and Marissa Sayers has both a successful creative Etsy shop in addition to her own MLM business! In this episode, Marissa and Parker break down several myths about MLM, the major mistakes some MLM entrepreneurs make, and what to look for in an MLM. An MLM is a business! Not a hobby. It's a great opportunity for Makers because you already have an audience and are used to selling physical products online. When entrepreneurs treat MLMs like hobbies instead of businesses, they tend to rely on their friends and family and personal networks, instead of building their own online community with their ideal customers! Plus, Marissa recommends entrepreneurs consider MLMs because it's another opportunity to diversify your income! The more revenue streams, the better. When considering an MLM, some things to think about and explore include: 1) Who you might want to sign up under and what they can offer you in terms of support and coaching 2) What outside coaching and training influences you can pursue to support your MLM business 3) Finding a company that aligns with who you are and how you like to spend your time 4) Consider how you will get paid as part of a particular organization and make sure you understand all the ins and outs of any contracts Marissa is a passionate entrepreneur with multiple businesses, a mom and wife, and is planner and stationery obsessed! She loves to help people figure out how to monetize their gifts and make their dreams come true. You can learn more about Marissa and her various business endeavors here: http://www.marissamaesayers.com/ You can follow her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/MarissaMaeSayers Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/marissamaesayers/?hl=en & here: https://www.instagram.com/sayersandco/?hl=en And check out her Etsy shop here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/sayersandco/

Today's episode features the Emily D. Baker, former Deputy District Attorney now helping clients navigate the wild world of online business! She loves to talk about trademarks, terms of use, and other important legal issues for online business owners. We are covering two major topics today: 1) Can you make stuff inspired by other brands (like Disney, Louis Vuitton, Coach, sports teams, universities, etc)? (The answer is no.) What happens if you do? What kind of action can they take? Will they sue you and take all your money? Will they have your website taken down? (The answer is: they can!) 2) What do I do if someone is stealing my designs? What kind of action can I take? You can follow Emily all over the internet: Her podcast, Get Legit Law & Shit: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/get-legit-law-sh-t/id1486229281 Her website: https://emilydbaker.com/ Her legal shop (for legal documents, terms of use, etc, to protect your business): https://getlegitshop.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theemilydbaker/ Facebook (she goes live on Fridays, don't miss it!): https://www.facebook.com/TheEmilyDBaker/ ------- Are you following Damon & Parker on social media, too? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/_shop/ Get Business Coaching from Damon: https://damonsbusinesscoaching.safechkout.net/ Shop DecoExchange: https://www.decoexchange.com/ Parker's Scaling Your Business with Assistants e-book: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/scaling-your-business-with-assistants-by-parker-stelly

This week Damon interviewed Brooke Riley of Re-fabbed. Brooke started her blog and her Facebook community at the same time, and she's setting the record straight that blogging is not dead and that it can still be profitable! As long as we are consistent and strategic. Damon and Brooke discuss the importance of building a community, using live video - even when it's not perfect, and how to get around that fear of imperfection... and even to embrace it! And, as usual, let's get clear on one thing: collaboration over competition, y'all! There's enough room for all of us to have success on the internet, Brooke says, because there are billions of people out there! You only have to target a group of them in order to have massive success online. So what's coming next for Brooke and Re-fabbed? A kids' clothing line, perhaps a doggie clothing line (thanks to Damon's pressure - err.... suggestion!), more live events (post pandemic!), and more. Check out the Re-fabbed blog, boutique, and subscription box below! Blog: https://www.re-fabbed.com/ Boutique: https://www.re-fabbedboutique.com/ Join the Re-fabbed VIP Text Club: 270-200-5848 Join the waitlist for the Re-fabbed subscription box: https://re-fabulousbox.pages.ontraport.net/waitlist

Parker is dropping some serious knowledge today about not only what content works best on each platform to reach customers, but also how to repurpose one piece of content to use on multiple platforms! He's talking about: 1. Facebook 2. Instagram 3. Pinterest 4. YouTube 5. TikTok 6. Blogging Join the course with Parker featuring SEO Queen Christine Jerry all about creating effective content and repurposing it here: RecycleYourContent.com Follow DecoExchange on all the platforms so you don't miss a thing!: https://www.facebook.com/decoexchange/ https://www.instagram.com/decoexchange/ https://www.pinterest.com/Decoexchange/ https://howtomakewreaths.com/blog https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJAN_9Npn3LIbe2klovUbUA

Jillian Leslie, of the Blogger Genius Podcast, MiloTree, and Catch My Party, joins us today for a deep dive into the evolution of her online business and everything she's learned. Spoiler alert: it hasn't all been easy! You can check out her podcast here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-blogger-genius-podcast-with-jillian-leslie/id1327139513 Join the Blog Start program here: https://transactions.sendowl.com/stores/12718/187465

This week, Damon is giving you 6 Tips to grow your Community of Customers! 1. Listen to your community! They will point blank tell you what they want and need, and what their pain points are. 2. Keep the content engaging! Use your platforms wisely. 3. Be SEARCHABLE. Make sure you are using SEO terms in titles, posts, and SEO fields! 4. Make it PERSONAL. People want to do business with other PEOPLE. 5. Don't just build a community on borrowed ground - make sure you're building an e-mail list and pushing your community to your own website. 6. Turn your best customers into BRAND ADVOCATES! For more information on the 4-Day Challenge to help raise funds for those impacted by Hurricane Laura, check out: damonsbowchallenge.com Or, text Damon directly at 504-553-3451 and include the word BOW.

You are going to LOVE today's episode with Parker's top 10 tips for YouTube Success! YouTube is a real thing, y'all, people are searching on there and sales are happening and extra money can be made! So tune in to learn about how to create high impact titles, effective descriptions, intro videos, cards, tags, and more! Oh! And you are definitely going to want to check out https://www.tubebuddy.com/decoexchange - they have an awesome system to help you optimize your YouTube Tags, Titles, & Descriptions!

What does it take to have a successful online shop for your handmade goods? In this episode, Parker is breaking down the three main keys it takes every maker - regardless of what platform- to sell online. 1. Traffic 2. Photos 3. SEO If you like this kind of training, you're going to love Damon's business coaching! Check it out here: https://www.damonsbusinesscoaching.com/

On today's episode, Damon sits down with Zack Hufnagel of Wreaths of Joy to talk about scaling from 0 to 7 figures! Listen in to hear about scaling from a spare room, to taking over the whole house, to converting a barn; shipping strategies and order picking techniques; and more. You can find Zack Hufnagel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zackhufnagel/?hl=en Also follow Wreaths of Joy on Facebook... https://www.facebook.com/wreathsofjoyllc/ On Instagram... https://www.instagram.com/wreathsofjoy/ & Shop for Supplies Now at: https://wreathsupplyoutlet.com/

Parker is giving away all his secrets today about implementation and operations! We all know that sometimes business - even coaching - can be really overwhelming, but Parker has refined a three step process that you can start using immediately: 1. Simplify 2. Implement 3. Optimize

Today's episode features Amy from Ba Bam Wreaths! Find out how her business has grown, how her personal story and message motivates her dreams, her tips for other Makers, and what being a Maker means to her! Here's Amy's website: https://www.babamwreaths.com/ Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/babamwreaths1 Or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/babamwreaths --------------------------------- This episode is sponsored by QUICK WIN WEEKEND - get your tickets at www.quickwinweekend.com Your ticket includes: ~ 3 PROFESSIONALLY RECORDED TUTORIALS ~ 3 LIVE TUTORIALS ~ 3 QUICK WIN BUSINESS TIP TUTORIALS **UNLIMITED ACCESS to the Facebook group and its content for 12 MONTHS

This episode is sponsored by QUICK WIN WEEKEND - get your tickets at www.quickwinweekend.com Tammy (Polka Dot Wreath Co), Mellie Mel (Sincerely Creative), & Jacquelyn (the Fancy Front Door) have joined forces to bring you the QUICK WIN WEEKEND!!! Join this dream team trio of BFF's as we make SHOW STOPPERS, QUICK SHOP FILLERS, and drop some QUICK WIN business bombs to make sure you're on track to have a FABULOUS FALL!!! Your ticket includes: ~ 3 PROFESSIONALLY RECORDED TUTORIALS ~ 3 LIVE TUTORIALS ~ 3 QUICK WIN BUSINESS TIP TUTORIALS **UNLIMITED ACCESS to the Facebook group and its content for 12 MONTHS

Damon and Tamara Bennett (Southern A-door-nments Decor) are breaking down everything about her business from A-Z! Tamara shares all about her core principle of community over competition, details about her membership group and what she offers, the journey of her business from when she started it to how it's grown and evolved, what running a Maker business has done for her life and her family, and more. Listen in as she shares her top tips for those starting their own business and what she would do differently if she were to do it all over: 1. Start your list! 2. Show your face. 3. Be authentically yourself. 4. Find accountability groups! Follow her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/southernadoornmentsdecor Check out her website here: https://southernadoornmentsdecor.com/ Shop door hangers here: https://shopdoorhangers.com/ Get on the waiting list for her membership, reopening again soon, here: https://southernadoornmentsdecor.com/painters-clubhouse/ Don't forget to leave a review if you found this helpful, and make sure to hit subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

Want to see what Quality Content and a good social strategy can achieve? In this episode, Parker is breaking down just the beginning of our strategy around creating good content - especially video content! 1) Check your lighting & sound quality - and don't be afraid to record a test video to make sure you sound okay, detect any of your bad habits, and to make sure there are no weird shadows or bright spots! 2) Make sure you have good "actual" content in your video - speak with a purpose and know your Perfect Person! Don't forget a clear call to action! 3) Know the data - what platform are you using and what does your audience look for on that platform? 4) Watch yourself improve - when you watch your own content (even when it's painful!) you will get better! You'll notice your areas of opportunity to improve and then you can work on them. 5) Repurpose content. As long as you know how to use content effectively on each platform, there's no reason you can't do a little editing here and there to re-use the same content across multiple platforms! WANT MORE? JOIN THE CHALLENGE! Create Quality Content: 5-Day Challenge By Parker Stelly What will you learn? You will learn how to create high quality video content that can be repurposed and reused for multiple platforms. Whether it be Facebook lives or recorded videos - we will walk you through the tools, guide you through the steps, and teach you the important metrics to keep an eye on. When is the challenge? August 24-28th at 6pm CST each day. How much is the challenge? The 5 day challenge is a one time payment of $20. http://createqualitycontent.com/

Today Damon is getting the whole story from Melissa AKA Mellie Mel of Sincerely Creative Mom about tips for starting out, selling online compared to selling in brick and mortar, how to partner with local boutiques, imposter syndrome, and what being a maker has done for Melissa's life. Follow Melissa here (and make sure you follow her so you don't miss her e-book about selling your products at local boutiques!): https://www.facebook.com/SincerelyCreativebyMom

What the heck is SEO? Today we are giving you a crash course to Search Engine Optimization... that means, how your customers find you on the internet! SEO can be pretty complex, but don't worry, we kept it simple and actionable for you today! We teamed up with Christine to give you all things SEO in a convenient handbook... so if you want to dig in to this stuff, check out this resource we put together just for you: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/the-comprehensive-seo-handbook

Today Parker sits down with a different kind of maker! Meet Christine Jerry of the Virtual Collab, a specialist in blogging, website development, and SEO. She even helped Parker & Damon with their book about SEO, which you can find here: https://www.decoexchange.com/products/the-comprehensive-seo-handbook Check out the Virtual Collab Hub: https://virtualcollabhub.com/ Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virtualcollabhub And stay tuned for Christine's upcoming course all about Scalable Blogging, for folks who have websites but want help with direction and strategy!