Streamlined Solopreneur: Helping Solopreneurs Take Time Off Worry-Free

More and more, we're hearing about why businesses should be on TikTok. As a creator, this can be a new place for you to gain an audience…if you do it right. And today's guest, Alex Rossman, knows a thing or two about TikTok. His agency, Rossman Media, is currently moving many of his B2B clients to the platform with great success. Today, Alex will tell you why you should be there, and how to make the most of being on the platform…from building community to generating more leads. In Build Something More, we talk about what it's like being a musician (we both play the drums), writing songs, and there's a heavy dose of The Beatles in there too.Top Takeaways:TikTok has accelerated a lot faster than other social media platforms in growth and maturity. They even have a managed services to help business grow through trends.1/10 of your videos will have some viral component to it. That doesn't mean millions of views, but it could mean 10,000. So it's important to be there, and be consistent.Alex recommends having a record day where you create 30 days worth of content in a sitting. Then you can plan and schedule it out. Using some free analytics, you can see what's trending and ride those waves to growth.Show Notes:Alex RossmanRossman Media on FacebookRossman Media on InstagramRossman Media on TwitterThe Beatles: Get Back DocumentaryRingo's MasterclassWhy Bussinesses are Missing out on Tiktok with Rebecca SimonManeskinCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | Ahrefs | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Word of Mouth has long ruled the lead-generating roost for freelancers and small business owners. But that’s an untenable, unscalable business model. What does work, you wonder? Ask web designer Jess Freeman. 60% of Jess’ leads come from content creation alone; 40% from her blog and YouTube. While many view YouTube as a place for entertainment and influencers where only the most popular channels make money, Jess shows us that’s not true. And she shares some fantastic tips on how you can leverage YouTube to build trust and generate leads. Plus, in Build Something More, we talk WordPress vs. Squarespace.Top Takeaways:Don’t expect to get rich overnight with content. It’s a long game that helps you build better trust with prospective clients.Jess tells us about 2 types of YouTube content: connection (get to know me better) and educational (teaching something). Be sure to teach your target audience!Consistency is key, so come up with a cadence that works for you. Batch your content and release it on a predictable schedule.Show Notes:Jessica FreemanJessica on InstagramJessica on FacebookDiviTubeBuddyCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | Ahrefs Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

They say one of the best ways to grow your audience is by getting in front of other people’s audiences, and today’s guest is an expert in helping you do that. Brittney Lynn understands how to pitch the media - both established media like publications and TV, and newer media, like podcasts. Today, she gives us some fantastic advice for finding and pitching podcasts, as well as what to think about if we’re going to pitch TV and publications. In Build Something More, we chat about the time I hired Brittney to help with my PR, what worked well, and what I should have done better!Top Takeaways:Since podcasts are weekly, and more selective about their content, you really need to hone your pitch. Spend some time doing your research, finding good fits, and then pitching a topic that works for the show.Look at recent guests and their topics. If yours is too similar, wait 6 months. Most hosts don’t want to cover the same topic in multiple episodes close together.There are lots of places to find shows. Apple Podcasts and Listen Notes, looking at shows competitors have been on, related podcasts, and even competitor press pages.Show Notes:Brittney LynnBrittney on Instagram (brittneylynn)Brittney on Instagram (humanconnectionagency)Brittney on TwitterBrittney Lynn WorkshopSmart Passive Income PodcastListen NotesPodchaserPublerNational Day CalendarCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | Ahrefs | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

How do you become an authority in your field? What's the key to unlocking rewarding work and more sales with less selling? According to Rochelle Moulton, it's publishing. And Rochelle knows a thing or two. Not only has she been helping people become authorities in their fields since 2007, but her book, The Authority Code, will give you the blueprint — and the right prompts — to help you too. Rochelle and I have a great conversation around niching down, spending your time wisely, and publishing to become an authority in your space. Plus, in Build Something More, we compare notes on the book writing and publishing process!Top Takeaways:There's a difference between being an expert, and being an authority. Experts are good at doing a thing, and get paid do to it. Authorities, whose mindset is publishing, command respect from a much wider audience, and can make money in a variety of waysTo build authority, you need to have a niche. You want to be able to talk to your people and offer them solutions and outcomes. In fact, as an authority, that's exactly what you're selling: an outcome. How will your perfect client's life change after working with you?Publishing is the key to building authority. That can be through email, blogging, podcasting, or video. Pick one that works for your audience and start helping people. Then, your content does the selling.Show Notes:Rochelle MoultonRochelle on LinkedinRochelle on TwitterRochelle on InstagramBook: The Authority Code: How to Position, Monetize, and Sell Your ExpertiseHow to Position, Monetize & Sell Your Expertise with Rochelle Moulton - The Recognized AuthorityJoin Creator CrewSponsored by: Sensei | Nexcess | Ahrefs Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In 2021, there was a lot of good, but there was also a lot of stress. In fact, there was a lot of everything. Seems like a year or less would do me good. But not really less of everything. I need to do less of something specific — over-commitment. So I’ve come up with The Year of Retreat.Show Notes:CortexMy 2022 Yearly ThemeCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | Ahrefs | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

I knew from a young age, I wanted to play the drums. I got my first small kit when I was five and when my friends and I started a band, heavy quotes, I played paint buckets. When I was 15 years old, I knew I needed a real kit. It's the last episode of 2021, and it's a little different: I'm going to share with you my favorite Christmas story. I'll also tell you where the show is heading in 2022. Show NotesRead the Story at Casabona.orgJoin Creator CrewRate: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | PodchaserGet Free Airtable templates (00:00) - Introduction (01:49) - My First Drum Set (08:09) - Thank You Alan (08:52) - How I Built It in 2022 (12:39) - Thanks for a Great 2021 Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Back in October, I wrote a blog post called, "We Need to Talk About Speakers and Virtual Events." I outlined how I believe speakers should be treated when it comes to virtual events; See I feel like too many virtual event organizers treat speakers as their marketing arm too. Shortly after, my friend Nathan Wrigley reached out. See, he is a virtual event organizer. In fact, I've spoken at his events! We wanted to have a debate of sorts, so we recorded it. It was a truly fantastic conversation. I certainly learned a lot, and I think you will too!Top Takeaways:Be communicative with your speakers and manage expectations. Doing the affiliate program well can net a lot of money for you without a TON of effort.It all depends on where you are in your speaker journey, and what your ultimate goal for speaking it. One peice of advice: choose events wisely. Show Notes:Nathan WrigleyNathan on FacebookCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

This year, I made a concerted effort to have a good Black Friday sale. I started thinking about it early, put in a good sequence of emails, and promoted it more than I've promoted anything. The result? My best sale ever. So how did I do it, what were the numbers, and what did I learn? Listen to find out. Plus, in Build Something More, I share the actual revenue, and my thoughts on affiliate programs.Top TakeawaysPreparation and messaging were instrumental. I started thinking about the sale in October - what the offer would be and the direction my business would go in for 2022. Right before the sale, I redesigned the home page to really push the benefits of the membership.Don't be afraid to send too many emails. I sent 9 emails over 5 days, with 4 coming on the last day. Each lead to at least one sale.I also paid attention to how things were going. When I found the membership to be a lot more popular than initially though, I changed the last few emails in the sequence to highlight the benefits of that instead of the fact that a la carte courses were going away.Show NotesCreator CoursesWhy Subscriptions are Crucial to Your Business with John WarrillowSite Wide SalesConvertKitWooCommerceLearnDashHow to Manage Your Email for a Sane Holiday SeasonJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Accessibility Checker by Equalize Digital | Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Sometimes it feels like Facebook gets a bad wrap. Of course, sometimes it feels like Facebook gets exactly what it deserves…so where should we, as small business owners, fall on how to use Facebook? Today's guests should help. Jono Petrohilos is a personal trainer and online educator who has a $1 Million online course business. He also runs huge Facebook groups, including one specifically for online course creators. Jono is SUPER passionate about FB groups -so much so that he made me excited about them. He offers a ton of tips for how to start and grow a FB group, and how one can build your business. In Build Something More, we talk about the Facebook outage and how it affected him (and how he has a backup plan!)Top Takeaways:Spend time in similar Facebook groups and communities, participating and adding value. This will help build a network of 100 people you can invite to your group.The goal of the FB group is the community. It's not about "me" it's about "them." In that vein, encourage participation at every opportunity. Introductions, questions emailed to you, and anything else you think the group would benefit fromThe name is SUPER important. It should be clear and searchable.Show Notes:Jono PetrohilosJono on FacebookJono on InstagramJono on LinkedinDo we REALLY Need to Own Our Platform?Fitness Education Online | US SiteCreator CrewSponsored by: Accessibility Checker by Equalize Digital | Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

A few weeks ago, we heard from John Warrillow about why we need to make subscriptions a core part of our businesses. Someone who's done that really well is a marketer and fellow creator Corey Haines. As we recorded this, he was going through the biggest change his membership has seem: consolidation of offerings, niching down, and increasing the price. And it was the best month of the membership to date. Listen on to find why and how he did it. Plus, in what I think is the best Build Something More yet, we talk about pricing: how to price as a creator, offerings, and price to value ratios.Top Takeaways:On subscription fatigue: Don't conflate consumer subscriptions with business subscriptions. Consumers get fatigued more than businesses.Early on, as a creator you could basically just ask for money and people would support you. Now it's about the right value proposition. If you don't get it right, you won't survive.Niching down allows you to focus, get the right value prop, AND charge more.Show Notes:Corey HainesCorey on TwitterLi Jin article creator economyMorning BrewCreator CrewSponsored by: Accessibility Checker by Equalize Digital | Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's the 2021 Gift Guides episode! This year I revamped the guides to be clearer, including more tools for people who work from home and podcasters, and offering more options for people looking for the perfect pen. In Build Something More, I talk about the transition from Beaver Builder to Gutenberg - why I did it, and how it went.Show Notes:Gift GuidesWork From Home Video WalkthroughPodcast Guide Video WalkthroughCreator CrewSponsored by: Accessibility Checker by Equalize Digital | Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Something I (and perhaps you) feel I do terribly is email marketing. I'm worried I'm not segmenting my list the right way, that I email them too much, and that what I send is not aligned with what they signed up for. But let me tell you, after this conversation with Samar Owais, I feel a lot better. Samar is an email expert, and we cover a lot of ground, from setting up a welcome sequence, to when you should sell to your list, to how to segment. This is a mini masterclass in email marketing and one of my favorite episodes to date. Plus, in Build Something More, how Apple is changing the way we measure email marketing success.Top Takeaways:When someone signs up for your mailing list, your welcome sequence needs to align with your offer and your promise...also, you should have a welcome sequence!When it is too soon to sell to your list? The very first welcome email. Everything else is fair game so soft sell, sew seeds, or even just mention.Segmentation is SO important. You're forming a relationship with your email subscribers, and you can't properly do that if you don't know anything about them.Show Notes:Samar OwaisSamar on TwitterSamar on LinkedinConvertKitCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Subscription services are increasingly popular and for good reason. On top of creating more predictable income for your business, they allow you to really focus and serve your subscribers instead of constantly trying to grind out new sales. Plus, it makes your business more sellable. We'll talk about all of that and more in this week's episode with John Warrillow, best-selling author of Built to Sell, The Automatic Customer, and The Art of Selling your business. And in Build Something More, we'll even talk about what it's like to write a best-selling book!Top Takeaways:Subscriptions make your business more predictable, more sellable, and place less pressure on your sales process. One Sale → One Payment vs. One Sale → regular monthly payments.You need to go all-in for a subscription business to work. Giving people a choice between one time and subscription will usually result in fewer (if any) subscriptions.When it comes to subscription fatigue, you need to demonstrate value in a tangible way. A 10% discount won't do that. But showing 10x more value will.Show Notes:John WarrilowThe Art of Selling Your Bussiness: Winning StrategiesThe Automatic CustomerJodie Cook: Built to Sell RadioHow to Hire a VA That Actually Helps with Matthew YahesLaunch by Jeff WalkerGrowing a Multilingual Newsletter (on the side!) with Maciek PalmowskiCreator CrewSponsored by: Sensei | Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

You've heard me say time and time again - build your list! If you want to grow your business, whether you sell products, services, or are a creator, you need to get people on your email list. And today's guest, Maciek Palmowski, has definitely done that. He and his wife started the only Polish-language WordPress-focused newsletter (quick a niche) and grew it into quite a popular English-language newsletter. The format and process for putting it together are interesting too - making this a fantastic episode for those struggling with (or struggling to start) their newsletter. In Build Something More, we talk about what it's like being an ESL programmer in an English-dominated market.Top TakeawaysThe Twitter community can be a great place for finding news and growing your list!The secret to growth: stay consistent and put in the work. People will come, and share it!Trial and error is super important. Try things out and see what works. See what doesn’t. Iterate quickly.Show Notes:Maciek PalmowskiMaciek on TwitterDelicious Brains blogwpcontent.ioMailchimpNewsletter GlueGutenberg TimesCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

As an elder millennial, TikTok as a platform scares and upsets me. I’m not really sure how to use it to grow my audience (if it even can) and I’m worried it’s just going to be a huge time suck. But according to Rebecca Simon, if your business isn’t on Tiktok, it’s a huge missed opportunity. SO naturally, I asked her how a small business owner can make the most of the platform; Rebecca offered some of the best advice I’ve heard for any social network! So if you’re wondering how you can grow your audience through TikTok, this episode is for you. Plus, in Build Something More, I ask Rebecca how some of my favorite Tiktoks were made.Top TakeawaysIt's important to have the right SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) in place with VAs, employees, or even just yourself.The direction all social media is moving in is video. Instagram rebranded as a "video" platform, and TikTok is leading the charge. That's why it's so important to be there.The biggest benefit is TikTok is pushing you to new people. Discovery is much better on that platform that on follower-centric platforms like Instagram.Show Notes:Rebecca SimonRebecca on TiktokRebecca on InstagramCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's another live coaching call! This time I have podcaster and WordPress site builder Nathan Wrigley. We chat about how I format this show, record the bumpers and the intros, and the benefits (and potential pitfalls) of batching. Then we roll into making money: how to find and land sponsors, and when to think about monetizing your podcast. Nathan has been a podcaster for a long time, so it was great to field his questions as well as get his perspective. Plus in Build Something More, we talk about what it's like to run a virtual summit.Top TakeawaysHave a good process for outreach to guests and sponsors. You can better track, schedule and batch!Should you think about monetization before you launch your podcast or after? It's a great question! You should think about why you're starting your podcast and how you can monitize. But you should wait to launch until you have a money making plan.One this is absolutely necessary though: Build your email list!Show Notes:Nathan WrigleyNathan on FacebookCan Solo Developers Exist in WordPress?The First Stuff You Should Know Episodes Were 6 Minutes LongConvertKitBuild Your List Using ConvertKit with Angel MarieNewsletter GlueCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Sometimes you know you're destined to run your own business. You work for companies and realize that you can't really work within the confines of a corporate structure. It's something I realized pretty much in high school. And it's something today's guest, Lauren Kennedy, has known all her life. Realizing then, she took her drive and built a marketing automation company…with a twist. While both marketing and automation can be terms associated with the impersonal, she's set out to build a people-first company. And that's the main focus of our discussion today. Of-course, it didn't stop me from asking about marketing automation. And in Build Something More, we talk about being active and helping people on social media, including Reddit.Top TakeawaysSales is the authentic exchange of knowledge - you're showing people what you know, and what you can do. Put another way, your knowledge is not proprietary. Your ability to do it is.The goal of marketing automation is to get as much done with as few resources as possible. You can make sure you communicate personally and properly with the right automations.Be a sponge. Take every opportunity to learn and absorb - about your craft, about your clients, about your employees. Then squeeze it back out.Pre show release - how hard it is to come up with an elevator pitch for yourself, imposter syndromeShow Notes:Lauren KennedyLauren On TwitterLauren on LinkedinLauren on Facebook Building and Evolving Profitable Project Plan with Jennifer BournCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Often, when it comes to launching, writing, recording, building funnels, or whatever else it is we need to do, it's easy to start because we're motivated. But the longer a project goes on, the harder it can be. The more frustrating it can get. And the more likely quality starts to go out the window. Well, today's guest, Elizabeth Pampalone, has a solution: get it all done in 1 day. From launching websites to writing a full year of blog posts, Elizabeth's process of blocking off a whole day and walking with her clients through a tried and true framework has proven successful. Here is how she does it. Plus, in Build something more, we chat about early businesses and how to handle premium products for clients.Top TakeawaysImplementing is the hardest part of the work for most people - building that into a day, and into your schedule helps you ship.You need a "Deep Work" style day to get the work done. Eliminate distractions and context switching.Checklists are a huge help. They reduce the mental energy of figuring out what to do next so you can just do.Show NotesElizabeth PampaloneElizabeth on FacebookElizabeth on InstagramElizabeth on LinkedinHow Your Content Strategy can Grow Your Business with Jean PerpillantMonster ContractsCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Hey everybody and welcome to episode 234 of How I Built It, the podcast that offers actionable tech tips for small business owners. Today's sponsors are TextExpander, and Nexcess. Jason How knows a thing or two about ads, start with this: don't start with Ads. Jason gives us a couple of important aspects of running ads you think to think about before actually running the ads - like how to get your offer to a place that will compel people to actually click on ads.Top TakeawaysBEFORE you run any ads, you need to get your offer right. Figure our whom you serve and do the research to make sure your offer is a good one. The messaging will be completely based on the offer. Get people into your funnel with a clear CTA, and have a good confirmation page.Show Notes:Jason HowJason on LinkedinJason on FacebookJason on TwitterAgency J on LinkedinZipMessageS.I.N. Offer by Todd BrownHyrosCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Look. I get tons of backlinks and cold outreach every day. It’s frustrating and annoying. It’s frustrating and annoying because it’s blanket cold outreach. The people reaching out don’t know me and are just swinging wildly. There’s gotta be a better way, right? That’s what Andy Cabasso is here to talk about. How can YOU get effective with your cold outreach to grow your traffic and your business? It’s a great conversation. Plus in BSM we talk about domain authority. Top TakeawaysPeople doing outreach need to recognize that content creators are getting pitched to constantly. It's SUPER important to personalize to prove you actually did the research.When it comes to cold outreach, one of the most important aspect is the follow up! When you create content, you should spend as much time promoting it as you did creating it. Organic SEO is great, but competitive.Show Notes:PostagaAndy on TwitterSkyscraper Technique by Brian DeanSam Brodie & Selling Your BusinessSemrushUbersuggestWP OwlsDeliverability Podcast on SPAM listsCreator CrewSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It's a listener questions episode! I thought it would be fun to round out the summer by answering some questions you've asked about how to run and grow a podcast. I hope you enjoy! in Build Something More, I tell you all about what I learned at Skip the Grind and how it's shaping my business, and this podcast, moving forward.Top Takeaways The biggest way to grow your show is by having a clear Call to Action and a strong show notes page. BUILD YOUR LIST! No matter what you're trying to do - build a community, sell products, sell a course or service - your email list is the life's blood of your business and your podcast can help you grow it.There are 2 million podcasts but only about 65% are actually active. For comparison, There are over 37 million YouTube channels. Show NotesSend in Feedback or Ask a Question!Why Course Creators Should Start a PodcastCourse Creators Community PodcastHow Skip the Grind Showed Me to Focus my BusinessNext Steps for How I Built ItPodcast Subscribe ButtonsPodcast Stats from BuzzSproutSponsored by: Nexcess | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Today's Episode is a little bit different. See, my friend Alastair McDermott has a couple of problems he'd like to solve: launching and promoting an online course, and growing his podcast. I believe these 2 things go hand-in-hand. A podcast is a great way to establish trust and expertise, which in-turn helps you sell more courses. So instead of Alastair dropping knowledge on us (which he does anyway...) we flip the script in this live coaching call, and he asks me a bunch of questions! This is one of my favorite episodes of the year - and highly educational for both of us! Top TakeawaysBeta testing your course is a great, lower-risk way to get your information out there and get real feedback. A podcast is a fantastic way to grow your audience, estabilish trust and expertise, and sell your courses. One way to grow your own podcasting audience is to guest on other people's podcasts!Show NotesAlastair McDermottAlastair on TwitterThe Recognized Authority PodcastBuilding and Evolving Profitable Project Plan with Jennifer BournHow to Hire a VA That Actually Helps You with Matthew YahesAuthority by Nathan BerryPricing Creativity by Blair EnnsWant to participate in a live coaching episode? Leave a Message Here.Sponsored by: Nexcess | Termshub | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

All too often, we hear only the success story. The Olympian who won the goal. The successful millionaire who launched a business from her dorm room. It's easy to assume these stories are without struggles. But what we don't see is the sacrifices the olympian made. We don't see the dozen other ideas and years of work the successful millionaire put in. Today we get to hear it all. Paul Lacey is as generous with his time as he is with his story. See, Paul has gone a long way in his travels as a web developer, from the pre-dot-com burst to crashing an agency and bouncing back. And he's learned a ton along the way that he generously shares with us in today's episode. So I just tried to get out of the way and tell his story. I think you'll love it.Show Notes:Paul LaceyPaul Lacey on TwitterWP BuildsFourth DoctorHow Giving Back saved my some gigRon Gijsel EpisodeCompany of OneCreator CrewSponsored by: Podcast Liftoff | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Google has recently rolled out a new set of metrics to help website owners create better websites. They're called Core Web Vitals and understanding how they work will be important for building your website, and getting it ranked better. Luckily we have Andy Schaff. He's the Development Architect and Portent and we have a fantastic chat about how to make your website more performant, from the ground up. We get pretty technical - but don't worry because I rain down analogies like it's my job. Andy drops a ton of knowledge about backend performance and gives both developers and small business owners starting points for making websites faster - and why your Google PageRank depends on it. Plus, in Build Something More, we talk about what it's like going through an acquisition from the employee's POV.Show Notes:Andy SchaffAndy on TwitterWebPageTestPage Speed InsightsGoogle's LighthousePingdomThe Page Speed Optimzation HierarchyCreator CrewSponsored by: Podcast Liftoff | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

If you're anything like me, you feel like there's not enough time in the day. Maybe you're take on too much, or maybe you're doing things you don't need to do. Either way, you (and I!) both need a change - and that's where Reinart Bacalso comes in. He specializes in helping business owners reclaim their time by automating what they can, and putting the right processes in place. And today he's going to give us his framework. Plus, in Build Something More, we talk all about his toolkit. Show NotesReinart BacalsoAgency Rocket Fuel Facebook GroupUsing Systems to Run a More Efficient Business with Shannon ShafferRangeZapierTimeryHow to Hire a VA That Actually Helps You with Matthew YahesLoom.comZipMessage.comJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Termshub | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

AmyJune Hineline has lots of perspectives. Not only does she have a background in nursing that she's brought to the open-source world, but she also actively works with both WordPress and Drupal. That sort of experience is exactly what helps communities grow. AmyJune has dedicated her time to helping people get involved in open source, and she offers great advice here for people who want to contribute, as well as mentors in the space. Plus in Build Something More, we talk about what Drupal and WordPress can learn from each other. Show Notes:AmyJune HinelineAmyJune on TwitterAmyJune on LinkedInAmyJune on InstagramMatt Jetpack on TwitterCreator CrewSponsored by: Linode | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Let me tell you something: I'm not great at social media. I KNOW...totally shocking. But you know who is? My friend Jean. In fact, we had a SUPER long chat all about content strategy and social media. It was super helpful and we covered a lot of ground, from growing your audience to TikTok. Plus there's a Build Something More pre- AND post-show. We talk about parenting in the pre-show and accents, culture, and repurposing in the post-show.Show Notes:Jean PerpillantJean on LinkedInJean on FacebookCaboPress Blog PostPexelsElements EnvatoMusic for MakersDesign PickleCreator CrewSponsored by: Linode | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Michelle Frechette knows a thing or two about building a community. Not only does she do it for multiple WordPress businesses, but she's cultivated quite the community on Twitter! As someone who's trying to grow my own community, I had lots of questions for Michelle and she generously answered them all. Learn all about what it takes to grow a community today. Plus in Build Something More, how to help those underrepresented in your community.Show NotesMichelle FrechetteMichelle on InstagramWorks by MichelleGiveWPMatt Medeiros Episode with MichelleBig Orange HeartUnderrepresented in TechCreator CrewSponsored by: Linode | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

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In January, I rolled out the Creator Crew, a membership that allows people to support the show directly in exchange for more, ad-free content. 6 months in, how do I think it’s going? Find out about this behind-the-scenes episode. And in Build Something More, we’ll talk about exact numbers, metrics, and what I’m measuring. Show Notes:Failed Patreon ExperimentCreator CoursesBuild Someting ClubSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

You've heard multiple guests on this show talk about the importance of building your email list...but what do you do with that list once you have it? Well, copywriter Matt DeFeo tells us: we need to tell stories. Matt gives lots of actionable advice for how we can improve our email copy and start selling more without annoying our subscribers. Plus, in Build Something More, he tells us how he went from law enforcement to copywriting and the story is incredible.Show Notes:Matthew DefeoMatthew on FacebookMatthew on TwitterSPF and DKIM TutorialHoney CopyMiddle Finger ProjectLemlistApp SumoCopyHackersNeverSpamWritesonicContent RowImpact PlusSEO PressorSwipe-WorthyMilloJustin GoffMarketing ExamplesCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Continuing a series on finances this year, today we tackle how to handle debt and invest in yourself and your business. Travis Hornsby took himself from being deep in debt to be able to support him and his family through his own business - and he gives us the framework so that we can do the same thing. Plus in Build Something More, we talk all about investing.Show Notes:Travis HornsbyTravis on TwitterTotal Money MakeoverStudent Loan Planner PodcastCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Podcasting can be like your own personal stage. If you're a speaker, you have the opportunity to create your own portfolio of work, allowing potential event organizers and audience members to see what you know and you speak. This can lead to more paid speaking gigs and a following. But that's not the only reason speakers should start a podcast.Show Notes:Should You Start A PodcastCreator CrewPodcast LiftoffSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

The feast and the famine are two staples in running your business, right? It's doesn't have to be! That's the message from Kelsey Kerslake, who went from $200 to $16,000 in her bank account in 3 months! Kelsey shares her story, tips, and what you need to do to grow your business and avoid that feast and famine stress.Show NotesKelsey KerslakeKelsey on InstagramKelsey on FacebookCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

A few months ago we heard from Amber Hinds about the importance of accessibility and how her WordPress plugin can help you create more accessible content. She also said that you need a human being to catch most accessibility issues - that's where Bet Hannon comes in. Bet tells us all about what to look for when auditing your website, and how to execute a sampling audit. We also talk about a TON of tools. In Build Something More, listeners get a pre-and post-show. The pre-show is all about beer. The post-show is about database queries.Show Notes: Bet HannonBet Hannon on TwitterBet Hannon on LinkedinBet Hannon BlogWordPress.tvLinkedin LearningDequeWave.WebAimAxe LighthouseMaking Your Website Accessible with Amber HindsCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Big news in the WordPress space today: GiveWP, makers of the extremely popular WordPress donation plugin has been acquired by Liquid Web. I got to interview the founders and co-authors, Matt Cromwell and Devin Walker. We cover questions like how the acquisition came about, what this means for current customers and nonprofits, plans for the future, and even some sage advice regarding the acquisition process.GiveWPGive's AnnouncementEpisode 54: The GiveWP TeamBetter Audience Engagement for Your Content with Taylor Waldon Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

If you've ever worked for a bigger company, you know that it's easy to get bogged down by software and other restrictions in the name of security. Heck, I was once told I couldn't work off-site because of it, and we had a VPN! Well, Jason Meller was sick of that and he suspected others were too, so he started Kolide. We talk all about what inspired him to take the leap and start a company, how he and his team built the software and the honest security manifesto! In Build Something More, we talk about cybersecurity and fear-mongering.Show Notes:Jason MellerJason Meller on TwitterKolide on TwitterHonest SecurityCompany of OneHerokuBaby Clothes BlogCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Promoting your book can be a tough road - I know because I'm currently on it. On top of establishing trust, you need to demonstrate that you're worth investing in. Plus, unlike online courses, it can be tough to build and keep an audience if people are just buying your book off Amazon. Luckily, a podcast can help. We'll get into all of that in this episode. Plus, in Build Something More I'll tell you all about my experience with both self-publishing and going through an actual publisher.Show NotesShould You Start a Podcast?Why Course Creators Should Start a PodcastHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Pricing is one of the biggest issues that freelancers and small business owners face. The worry that pricing too high will lose sales tends to outweigh the fact that pricing too low is actually worse for your business. Well, Stephen King is here to tell us why the latter will sink you - not the former. And in Build Something More, we'll talk about how to be prepared for an economic recession - whether it's this one or the next.Show Notes:Stephen KingStephen King on TwitterStephen King on FacebookStephen King on LinkedinWhy Your Business NEEDS Financial Planning to Succeed with Kathy SvetinaProfit First BookValue Pricing by Ron BakerCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Apple has officially announced Apple Podcast Subscriptions, a way for podcasters to offer paid podcasts directly through the Podcasts app. We’ll cover all the fine details (how it works, pricing, and some of the finer details) and they I’ll give my thoughts, and we’ll do some price comparisons. Show NotesThe YouTube VideoApple Press ReleaseMacstories CoverageThe Fine Print, Six ColorsThe Future of Apple Podcasts, Nathan GathrightMemberful PricingCastosApple Podcast Directory IssuesCreator Crew Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

When just starting your business, it feels like the only financial question you're asking is, "How can I make enough money to stay afloat?" And while that is a SUPER important question, it's not the only question. In fact, today's guest, Kathy Svetina, gives us several questions we should ask ourselves to better answer the question, "How can I make enough money?" Her financial security framework is one every business owner, from freelancer to agency should think about. Plus, in Build Something More, we dive into tax planning, charts, and financial planning!Show Notes:Kathy SvetinaKathy Svetina on LinkedinJennifer Bourne EpisodeRian Kinney and TrademarksSpotlight ReportingFathomCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

One of the most important things a course creator needs to do to sell courses is establish trust. Indeed you've probably heard that a customer needs to know, like, and trust you. Well, there's no better way to get someone to do all three of those than by starting a podcast. We'll discuss that and other benefits to starting a podcast, whether you've already launched, or are planning to launch, a course. Plus in Build Something More, I tell you about how this podcast started, and why I pivoted. Show NotesShould You Start a Podcast?Podcast LiftoffJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

When you run a company focused on software for live events, you have no choice but to pivot when live events cease basically overnight. Hazel and Zach tell their fantastic story of how they were able to pivot a team of 50 people to focus their live events software on virtual events (spoiler alert: it's not easy). In Build Something More, we talk all about Liquid Web's acquisition of The Events Calendar in late 2020.Show NotesThe Events CalendarThe Events Calendar on TwitterThe Events Calendar on LinkedinThe Events Calendar on FacebookOtter.aiMucow ListCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

I LOVE automation, so when Mang-Git Ng reached out and wanted to talk about what he learned by launching a start-up fully focused on digitizing paper processes, I was hooked. If you've bought a house, done taxes, or any other document-heavy task, you know what a pain it can be. Mang-Git's company aims to solve that problem, and he tells us everything he's learned. In Build Something More, we answer the question, "Are big cities like San Francisco and NYC dead?"Show NotesMang-git NgMang-git on LinkedinCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

One thing the global pandemic taught us is we need to have a great online presence. This is especially true if you need to sell online - and let's face it, we all do now. Well Patrick Garman of Mindsize has the knowledge and experience to help anyone launch and improve their eCommerce store. And he gives us some of his best stuff in today's episode. Plus, Mindsize went through a bit of a rebrand, and we talk all about it in Build Something More.Show NotesPatrick GarmanPatrick on TwitterMindsize on TwitterLindsey Miller and Partnership ProgramsPost StatusLaravel ValetQuery MonitorCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever wondered why your product or service didn't get much traction on social media even though you post all the time? According to Michelle Knight, it's all about your personal brand (or lack thereof). Maybe you've heard the term before, but what does "personal brand" really mean? Luckily, Michelle has us covered! She'll tell us all about why you need a personal brand and how to craft one. In Build Something More, we talk Star Wars in the pre-show and social media dos/don'ts, traveling, and schooling in the post-show. This has been one of my favorite conversations so far this year!Show NotesMichelle KnightMichelle on InstagramMichelle on FacebookConvertKitVidIQAnswer The PublicKeywords EverywhereGear blog PostCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Starting an eCommerce just a few years ago was a hard task. You needed to set up a website, figure out how to accept payments, manage inventory, figure out shipping and fulfillment, and so much more. Thanks to Amazon and other tools, things have gotten a lot easier. Michael Begg tells us all about how using Fulfillment By Amazon and grow your business. Be sure to check out Build Something More this week - we talk negative review, review scams, and more! Show NotesMichael BeggMichael on LinkedinCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In my experience, starting out, hiring a Virtual Assistant(VA) can take up more time than you're saving. While this is true for any employee, part of the reason to hire a VA is to make more time in your schedule to focus on your business. So how do you do it right? Matthew Yahes answers this question, plus where to find good people, and how to properly onboard VAs. In Build Something More, we talk about how to let go of those tasks you're holding on to!Show NotesMatthew YahesLoomAppSumo.comThe Mythical Man MonthCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Going on podcasts can be a great opportunity for small business owners. You're getting in front of a new audience to tell your story and show your expertise. But did you know there's a whole other avenue you can explore? Kristin Molenaar does, and she tell us all about it! Plus, in Build Something More, she walks us through forming your podcast pitch.Show NotesKristin MolenaarKristin on LinkedInCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

There are a lot of aspects to consider when creating a membership site. Aside from the tech stack, you need to determine what you're going to offer and why it's compelling. In some cases, like a monthly subscription box or access to education resources, the offer is clear. But what about for content creators? Well, I just rolled out my membership and here's everything I put into it. Plus, in Build Something More, I tell you how I evaluated membership plugins, and what further benefits can look like. Show NotesSign Up for Creator CrewMy Failed Patreon ExperimentRestrict Content ProCastosConvertKitWhy You Shouldn't Use Tags to Segment Your ListUncanny AutomatorbbPressMemberfulSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★