Streamlined Solopreneur: Helping Solopreneurs Take Time Off Worry-Free

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 ★

Back in 2017, I tried launching a Patreon for this very show, after hitting 50,000 downloads in 9 months. It was an epic failure! As a relaunch memberships for this site 4 years later, I reflect on the Patreon: how I overpromised, how I underdelivered, and what lessons I carried into my new membership, Creator Crew. Show Notes50K Downloads & More Coming to How I Built ItI’m Doubling Down on PatreonPatreonCreator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Accessibility is an important of often overlooked aspect of web development. While some view it as an added expense, many don't even know they're doing anything wrong. Well today's guest, Amber Hinds, aims to change that by making accessibility less daunting through her agency and their new plugin, Accessibility Checker. Show NotesNOTE: Around 4:30, Amber said Section 508 of the Telecommunications Act. She has relayed to me it should have been Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.Equalize Digital | [email protected] CheckerWCAGWAVEHotjara11yrules podcastAccessibility Resources from HTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

The global pandemic has forced a lot of businesses to change their processes and practices. One major drawback of not being able to meet in person is when we pitch new clients or customers, it has to be done digitally. That is a big change from being in the same room as you and your potential clients. Luckily Alex Price, owner of the 93digital WordPress agency, has some great tips for us. Show NotesAlex Price | TwitterEmail: [email protected] Rich in the Deep EndPositioningSara Dunn and Niching DownPliim ProSimple Streaming KitJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

We've heard about flipping houses, but what about flipping blogs? Chelsea Clarke has built an entire business on just that. She teaches us what to look for when buying a blog, and the steps we need to take in order to sell. Listen in for an interesting and unique way to generate income for your business! Show NotesFree Resource - Profit and Loss TemplateChelsea Clarke | InstagramMediavineJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | Hostinger | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Jennifer Bourn has been successfully running Profitable Project Plan, her training program for freelancers and small business owners, for several years. But it wasn't something that instantly made her a ton or money, and it's evolved over time. We're getting back to basics here in 2021, so Jennifer and I talk about what you'll learn in Profitable Project Plan, but we'll also talk about how she built it, and how she evolved it to make it the perfect program for anyone who wants to build a better business.Show NotesJennifer Bourn | TwitterProfitable Project PlanContent CampJennifer Bourn and Profitable Project PlanCompany of OneIntroduction to the Block Editor2021: The Year of OpportunitySponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | Hostinger | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

One of my favorite things to do at the end of each year is plan my Yearly Theme. It’s becoming a bit of a tradition and I’ve even got my wife in on the action this year. I find it’s better to have a guiding set of principles than a number of promises I may or may not1complete. 2020 caused many people to change how they do things, and I was no different. that’s why for 2021, my yearly theme is going to be The Year of Opportunity.Show NotesRead the post on my blogCGP Grey’s Theme VideoTheme System JournalMy YouTube ChannelSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | Hostinger | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It’s that time of year again! I round up my favorite media and tech picks of 2020 - but this year I’m doing it a little differently. Over on Casabona.org, I’ve written blog posts for the past several years, but I’ve never recorded my thoughts. So this year, along with a blog post, I decided to do a podcast episode too - this lets me ramble a little more and add some thoughts on 2021. I hope you enjoy! Show Notes and PicksTech Pick: Elgato Stream DeckHow I Configured my Stream DeckHonorable Mentions: iPad Magic Keyboard, Kindle Oasis, DrumsApp: MilanoteWhat I’m Using Testing Out Milanote for ResearchHonorable Mentions: eCamm Live, iOS 14Thing I Learned: How to hire moreI’ve Been Hiring A Lot Brittney LynnHonorable Mention: marketing messaging, PR outreachBook: The Ride of a Lifetime by Robert IgerMy 2020 Goodreads Reading ChallengeHonorable Mention: Marketing Made Simple, Dooku: Jedi LostTV Show: Ted LassoHonorable Mention: The Mandalorian (again)All the Disney Investor Day AnnouncementsMusic: First to Eleven, Lewis CapaldiMovie: HamiltonWarner Bros. Says All 2021 Films Will Be Streamed Right AwayPodcast: Advisory OpinionsSponsored by: ConvertKit | Hostinger Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Well 2020 was unlike any year I’ve lived through, and I’m sure it’s the same for you. When I decided to come up with a theme for Season 9, which started in July, we were a couple of months into the global pandemic. I wanted focus on topics that could help you (and me) grow at a time where we were traveling less, seeing less foot traffic, and had to change in some way to make ends meet. I settled on coming up with good content, and using that content to evolve memberships, and build communities. If you didn’t catch every episode, here are the highlights.Check out all the episodes mentionedPodcast LiftoffSponsored by: ConvertKit | Hostinger Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

In September 2020, my 4th book published by a publisher (6th overall) came out. It's called HTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart Guide and it's a (very) beginner's guide to learning HTML and CSS. The process was long and at times frustrating. I wanted to go through how I wrote it, from inception to hitting the shelved.Show NotesHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideMindNodeProcreateSponsored by: ConvertKit | Hostinger Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Winstina Hughes is an Assistant Regional Planner for the Maryland Department of Transportation but she's coming to us today as a member of the wordpress community! Throughout the interview we talk about all sorts of things - life, WordPress, the New Jersey Transit…and it call comes back to the main takeaway for this episode: writing what you know and creating opportunities to share your insight. This was such a fun conversation where we covered a lot of ground. I enjoyed it, and I know you will too. Winstina Hughes | TwitterWordPress NYC MeetupWinstina on WordPress.TVWinstina on Hallway ChatsHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideSponsored by: Hostinger | Yes Plz | iThemes Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Throughout this season, we’ve talked about create content to build an audience. And the best way to build that audience and interact with them is forms. Well, Naomi C Bush tells us all about some great ways to build helpful forms for users. This is a much more traditional episode of How I Built It and I’m excited. Naomi talks about how she’s built her business, then provides some actionable advice for us. Naomi C. Bushgravity+Gravity Forms Episode 55: Alex Cancado & Gravity FormsConvertKit Build Your List Using ConvertKit with Angel MarieRightMessageBrennan Dunn and RightMessageHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideSponsored by: Hostinger | Yes Plz | iThemes Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Jase Rodley has A LOT going on. In fact, since we recorded this episode, he stepped down from Rank Defender to run Dialed Labs. His energy and drive are apparent in the interview, where we talk about Making Resource sites. Essentially, he tells us how to make content to fill a demand, and make a little money along the way. I even put him on the spot and have him help me through an idea during the episode. So listen for that and more - and let me know what ideas you come up with!Jase Rodley | TwitterDialed LabsahrefsScreaming FrogThe 4 Hour Work WeekEpisode 8: Joost de Valk and Yoast SEOThe 2020 Gift Guide!HAROShould SEO audits be part of your ongoing maintenance?Keyword Discovery: Produce Creative Content to Be SeenHow to Write a Great Blog PostSponsored by: Hostinger | Yes Plz | iThemes Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

It has become a bit of a time-honored tradition for me to do gift guides around the holidays. I often get asked for recommendations on office, podcast, and pen gear. I write the gift guides up on my personal site, but this episode goes into a bit more depth for people who work from home, podcast, and more!Gift GuidesHow I Light my Live StreamsSponsored by: Hostinger | Yes Plz | iThemes Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Joe Simpson did something that, in my opinion, is very difficult to do. He created a local community out of virtually nothing. Living in Castilla, CA, he built the WordPress Santa Clarita Valley meetup from scratch. And the way he did it, as well as his personal story, is fantastic. I’m so happy I got to speak to Joe on this topic; he offer a unique insight with takeaways for everyone!Joe A. Simpson Jr. | TwitterWordPress Santa Clarita Valley MeetupSponsored by: Hostinger | Yes Plz | iThemes Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Virtual summits are all the rage these days, but my friend Dave Shrein was doing them before they were cool. I participated in his event last year for his agency Campaign Donut, and I thought it was so well-run, I had to have him on the show to talk about it. Dave's story is great and he offers lots of actionable advice. It's always great when I can take something from an interview and implement it, and I did just that with Dave.Show NotesDave ShreinCampaign DonutHow to Identify Your Ideal Customer Avatar | Marketing Made EasyDave's Free SEO CourseTopic Clusters | HubspotHow A Podcast Can Replace A Live EventAllie Nimmons and Freelancing / Mental HealthUnleashed SummiteCamm Call RecorderThriveCarteCamm LiveSponsored by: ExpressVPN | Yes Plz | iThemes Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Lately on this show we've been focusing on big picture stuff, but it's really the small changes that make a big difference. Proof of that is Bud Kraus. He was trying to grow his newsletter and got nowhere….until he made a small change that grew it over 1,000 people in one year. Bud spills is secrets in this episode and tells you how you can do it too. Show NotesBud KrausWhat I'm Doing To Get People to Sign Up For My NewsletterBuild Your List Using ConvertKit with Angel MarieHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideConvertKitMailchimp LearnDashRestrict ContentUncanny OwlGravity Forms Gravity ViewSponsored by: Yes Plz | iThemes | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

I love talking to Brian Krogsgard. And if you need proof, we had a SUPER long pre-show that I'm going to release as bonus content when I roll out the Build Something Membership. And speaking of, that's the main topic for today's conversaiton with Brian: building membership through community. We talk all about how Post Status has changed since we last spoke, alll the way back in Episode 3. We get into building the membership, innovating, and what keeps your members from churning.Show NotesBrian KrogsgardPost Status | TwitterCommerce JourneyLedger StatusEpisode 3: Brian Krogsgard and Post StatusEpisode 4: Cory Miller & iThemesProfessional WordPress DevelopmentMarketing Made SimpleGrowing Your Audience on Instagram with Andrea ZoellnerSony a6400Google AMPWirecutterWooCommerce MembershipsSponsored by: Yes Plz | iThemes | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Monetizing your podcast doesn't just mean sponsors. There are methods you can employ to generate income from your show - whether it's direct dollars or warm leads. Here are 4 ways to monetize your podcast, from landing sponsors to generating commission. And if you'd like to learn more, check out the course Podcast Liftoff.Show NotesGet Podcast Liftoff (use BUILD at checkout for a 15% discount)Sign up for Build Something WeeklyConvertKitMy Pitch DeckPodtracMemberfulWishlist MemberSubstackThirstyAffiliatesYOURLSAmazon Affiliate ProgramTarget Affiliate ProgramSponsored by: Yes Plz | iThemes | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

Webinars can be a great way to grow your audience, but are a tough business. Today's guest, Emily Hunkler, is a pro! She is able to host consistent webinars and virtual meetups for GoWP at a time where it helps most. In this episode, Emily lets us in on how she does it. Show NotesEmily HunklerGoWPGoWP's Niche Agency Owners Facebook GroupWhat to Focus on in a Recession with Brad Morrison7 Ways Your Clients Can Benefit From PodcastingImproving Customer Relationships with John VuongSponsored by: ExpressVPN | Yes Plz | iThemes | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

I have a confession that won't be much of a confession once you start listening to this episode. I'm a big fan of David Sparks. I think he does great work in several different areas an I'm excited to talk to him about how he does it. We also both happen to be big fans of Disney and Star Wars. When we spoke, he was just coming off his first ever Sabbatical - so we'll get into that and how he manages to put out what must be dozens of hours of field guides while also running a law practice. Show NotesDavid SparksMacsparky Field GuidesMac Power UsersFocused | #104: Sleep and Sabbaticals AutomatorsMyke Hurley and Relay FMFind the Right Podcast Membership Benefits with Stephen HackettTeachableAirtableDEVONthinkBetter Touch ToolSetappMindNodeSponsored by: Yes Plz | iThemes | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★

I'm really excited to take to Tracey Larvenz today - he's my content manager over at linkedIn Learning and he's so great to work with! Being a Content Manager at LinkedIn Learning, it's his job to make sure there's a steady stream of new course material coming out for members. We'll talk about how he decides what to put into the production queue, and with me being a LinkedIn Learning instructor, we'll get into the course creation process a bit! Show NotesTracey Larvenz | TwitterLinkedIn LearningJoe's courses on LinkedIn LearningHow to Get More Comfortable RecordingSponsored by: Yes Plz | iThemes | TextExpander Simplify your tech stack at https://streamlined.fm/tools ★ Support this podcast ★