Episodes
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As the year comes to a close, I find myself in a reflective mood, looking back at the highs and lows that shaped my business journey in 2024. It's a tradition I hold dear, taking stock of what went well, what didn't, and how I plan to make improvements in the year ahead. I love planning for a new year and hope that my experiences might offer some valuable insights for you too.
The Best of 2024
1. Three Glorious Months of Maternity Leave
This year, one of the best things that happened for me personally and professionally was taking three full months of completely unplugged maternity leave. Seven years into my business, I reached a milestone where I could step away entirely, knowing my team would keep everything running smoothly and profitably. It was a profoundly emotional experience. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from our clients during this time was the icing on the cake. They praised how well the team, especially Niv, handled everything, ensuring our standards remained high. If you're considering taking a similar break, know that it is possible. With intentionality and robust systems in place, you can enjoy this kind of freedom too.
2. The Success of Our Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The Scalable Freedom Mastermind continued to outperform expectations. We started the year with a phenomenal 93% retention rate, which was truly inspiring. Even after downsizing, we maintained an impressive 60-70% retention rate. Our systems have tightened up, and our clients are achieving incredible results. I'm endlessly grateful for the opportunity to work with such sophisticated and committed women. They constantly remind me why I started this journey.
3. A Record-Breaking Launch
Upon returning from maternity leave, I braced myself for a rebuilding phase, but to my pleasant surprise, our Scalable Freedom Mastermind launch exceeded all expectations. We sold out in just seven days—the fastest we've ever accomplished a launch. This accomplishment reaffirmed my position and boosted my confidence as a business owner and new Mum. It showed me once again the power of credibility and trust built over time in this industry.
The Worst of 2024
1. Lower Revenue Year
While it’s been an incredible year in many ways, 2024 was not a million-dollar year for us, mainly due to my maternity leave. Despite reducing client contracts by half during that period, the decision felt right. Our focus wasn't revenue this year but on profitability and sustainability, ensuring both my family time and business needs were met. It was a conscious choice that I believe was pivotal to our success and peace of mind.
2. Working Late Hours
I underestimated how much time would be needed to plan for maternity leave and subsequently reintegrate into the business. Although setting things up more efficiently could have been possible, I wanted to ensure everything ran smoothly for my team and clients. Balancing work demands with being a present Mum to Sunny took extra hours, but knowing I can rely on newly established systems in the future is a relief.
3. Challenges with Ad Costs
At the beginning of the year, we faced increased ad costs during a launch, which required us to adjust our messaging multiple times. At the end of the day, it led us to bring in Jane Day to manage our ads, laying the foundation for even more strategic growth in 2025.
I truly hope sharing these this with you from my year resonated. Understanding what worked and what didn’t has been instrumental in shaping how I plan to tackle future challenges. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Here's to a prosperous and balanced 2025!
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Curious where the digital business realm is heading in 2025? Well, I’ve got some predictions for you! I’ve been doing business forecasting for the last 15 years, and I’m going to own it and say that rarely have I made a prediction that I haven’t seen come into fruition in some way.
Now, these predictions don’t come from looking into a magic crystal ball - they’re always based on trends that I'm seeing online, things I'm seeing move in a certain direction, statistics and data. And my predictions for 2025 are no different.
So, let’s dive into the 5 major predictions that I believe will shape online business in 2025:
1. AI is Going Mainstream
While AI has been in the picture for some time now, its integration will be deeper and more transformative. I believe that the businesses adopting AI by the beginning of 2025 are going to see the most growth. AI isn’t just for optimising our marketing; we can use it to streamline our operations, revolutionising our workflows and core systems.
2. The Human Factor in an AI World
While AI will revolutionise information access, it won't replace the unique value of human interaction. The future will see people seeking more than just data; they’ll crave connection. The insights and personal touch provided in a mentoring relationship cannot be replicated by even the most advanced AI.
3. The Rise of Omnipresence
Omnipresence will be key across digital platforms in 2025. Unlike past advice to focus deeply on a few select channels, the future demands a broadening of presence. With AI's ability to facilitate content repurposing, being consistently visible across multiple platforms will be crucial. It’s all about leveraging AI's efficiency to construct a more pervasive digital presence.
4. Specialists Over Generalists
As we move forward, there’ll be a distinct preference for specialists over generalists. The demand for coaches or consultants with verified expertise and specific skills will rise. Consumers will become more discerning, prioritising substantial experience and concrete results over trend-based popularity.
5. Revaluing Community Connections
Lastly, we’ll witness a renaissance of community-driven business models. More than ever, people will long for community and authentic interaction to counterbalance the impersonal nature of technology. As digital communication grows, so too does a sense of isolation. Businesses that embed genuine community engagement in their strategies, such as small, intimate groups or masterminds, will thrive.
I encourage you to consider how your business strategy for 2025 stands up against these predicted trends. Are you equipped to adapt and innovate? This isn't about a radical overhaul but ensuring your business is robust and prepared for these shifts. Lean into a steady commitment to your core strategies while remaining aware of evolving trends, and I know you’ll see the needle move forward in an incredible way in 2025.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Missing episodes?
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My word for 2025 is Peace.
After honing in on Discernment in 2024, I’m reflecting on how that played out for me and am also keen to share how I’m choosing to value peace at all costs next year.
This year was a pivotal year as I became a mother and I spent a lot of time evaluating what truly matters to me. Journeying into motherhood while running a seven-figure business meant I had to make a lot of decisions about my time and energy. It was about letting go of things that no longer served me and embracing those that did.
Of course there have been challenges, but focusing on discernment truly allowed me to make room for meaningful moments, especially those precious first months with Sunny.
Now as we’re about to launch into 2025, my focus has shifted towards peace and simplification. For me, it’s about deliberately protecting the beautiful life I've worked so hard to cultivate. This means boundaries and systems within my business and family life and guarding this peace when modern life says it should be otherwise.
Practically in the business, my main priority will be growing and scaling the mastermind through strategic collaborations and an evergreen model. I’ve done live launches for a long time and love it but it’s just not the season for it now and it feels really good to know this.
I’m also choosing to stay in my lane. Nothing good comes out of comparing myself to someone else because I trust and know that my path is unique to me. Just because I work in the online space doesn’t mean I need to scroll endlessly to see what’s working. This season is about confidently knowing my lane and protecting my peace at all costs.
Don’t get me wrong. Peace doesn’t mean boring. I’ve got so much travel and fun things planned for next year but I plan to embrace every moment fully. Peace is a state of mind and in 2025, I’m choosing for peace to infiltrate every decision I make for my life and my business.
So, what about you? What’s your word or theme for 2025?
LINKS
FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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If you’re selling a mastermind, either starting now or in 2025, you might be experiencing some resistance from potential clients.
“I’ve got too much on. I’m too busy to make a decision.”
“I’ll think about that once Christmas is over.”
“I’m too exhausted to think about next year right now.”
Sound familiar? At this time of year, it’s easy for people to fall into the trap of feeling too busy, tapped out, and unsure of what to do for the year ahead, which is why you need to make sure your sales and marketing address these exact problems.
Here are three common objections you might be hearing from potential clients right now and what you can do to help your clients understand why they should join your mastermind right now. If you don’t have a mastermind, these strategies will also be very applicable to you if you’re selling one-to-one or any mid to high-ticket item.
“I'm Tapped Out”
By the end of the year, we’re all pretty ready for a holiday, let’s be real. You might have potential clients expressing feelings of exhaustion or hesitation to commit, saying they’ll decide on something next year when they’re less exhausted. But, we know that waiting till a fresh calendar year to pursue growth isn’t a good strategy.
The key here is to address the fears underlying these objections. Many people are scared of next year being the same as this year, feeling disappointed that they haven’t seen the results they were hoping for. We need to help clients see that meaningful change can happen and offer them a different perspective that NOW is the time to start working toward those goals.
“I'm Too Busy Right Now"
The festive season overload is real: juggling family, events, and holiday preparations leaves many people feeling overwhelmed by things that may not even matter to them. If that’s how your potential clients are feeling, you need to remind them of their personal goals and priorities and introduce a sense of urgency.
What are their big goals for next year? What do they want to see happen in their business and their life?
Remind them of their priorities and set clear deadlines and incentives that spur action because let’s face it, we all need a deadline to get moving sometimes!
"There are Too Many Options"
The online space is really noisy, especially now with sales everywhere. If you’re finding some resistance because of this, it’s possible you’re not addressing your dream clients’ core problems with enough precision. Your messaging needs to be sharply aligned with their deepest needs. What differentiates you from others offering similar services? Your unique touch—be it a specific strategy, personal experience, or specialised focus—needs to shine brightly in your communication.
I hope these insights fuel your strategies and bring you closer to your ideal clients. Whether it's creating compelling content or refining your sales process, this season is full of potential to innovate and connect. Embrace it, navigate your sales conversations with empathy, and harness the vibrant energy this time of year brings.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I’ve been looking back on some of my previous content lately and taking a look at episodes that have resonated with you over the years.
While I’m soaking up the holiday vibes with my fam in Noosa, I thought it would be a great opportunity to release this episode from January 2023, which was a particular favourite and just as relevant today as it was back then.
Enjoy!!
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I’ve been getting a lot of questions from my clients lately around the topic of creating free content. It can be hard to know what to share, how much to share and where to share it.
Today, my aim is to help you feel confident in sharing your knowledge and expertise with a spirit of generosity. I talk through the mindset of abundance, and share a very specific strategy to build trust and ultimately draw people in.
While there can be resistance in giving your knowledge away for free, sharing valuable content from a place of service will cause you to stand out from the crowd and really showcase what you have to offer.
Sharing in this way will never replace the bespoke support provided by paid programs. Rather, it gives people a taste of what they can expect to receive if they decide to work with you.
I encourage you to reject the mentality of scarcity and embrace expansiveness, knowing that this mindset will support you in attracting your ideal clients.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I know you love getting a peek of what happens behind the scenes at Swift Ventures and today I’m excited - and I’ll be honest, a little nervous - to share my wins and challenges from the first 2 months back from maternity leave.
3 of my biggest wins
Above all, I’m so incredibly grateful to have a healthy thriving baby and a healthy thriving business. To me, that’s the biggest win. It’s an amazing feeling to know I am showing up in both areas, being present as a mum and in my business and it’s something I’m really proud of.
Another win I’m celebrating is the success of my brand new masterclass which had over 750 sign-ups and a 20% show-up rate. I was thrilled with this result given the current season and it was honestly the best masterclass I’ve ever done. We had an incredible launch and at this point, we’re about 95% sold out. All of that with a four-month-old baby is, I think, a massive win.
This season has been very full and I am so grateful for the support system I have around me. Between my mum, my incredible nanny and Chey, who is such a wonderful father, I feel so supported to focus on the business when Sunnie is in their care. The day to day structure we have in place is working so beautifully and I’m so grateful.
3 of my biggest challenges
I knew that motherhood would present me with challenges that I hadn’t experienced before but I must admit, some challenges have taken me by surprise. One particular challenge has been the lack of flexibility in finding extra time. Those spontaneous late-night and early-morning work sessions aren’t always possible now, which means I’m having to adjust to a much more structured work routine and have some really strong boundaries in place.
During the already big season of my mastermind launch, there were a few nights when Sunnie wasn’t sleeping as well and I found myself going into time scarcity in a big way. I experienced anxious thoughts in a way I hadn’t in a long time. It made me realise that I need to acknowledge my limitations and also prioritise my wellbeing so I don’t burn out.
Looking ahead to planning next year with big business and personal goals in mind is both exciting and daunting. For the first time in my career, I’m planning the year ahead while also trying to factor in the practicalities of life with a baby - who will quickly grow into a toddler. I really don’t have any idea what that will look like, so it’s been a challenge to know how to make space for that.
While my wins and challenges are specific to my season of life with a new baby, I hope this episode feels supportive to you in your unique life situation. Whether you’re navigating life with teenage kids, taking care of ageing parents or juggling career goals amidst personal changes, the main message I want to share is that it is absolutely possible to rise and thrive, no matter what you’re facing.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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When it comes to sales, the devil is in the details.
Unlike marketing, which often involves large-scale messaging, easeful selling is about those micro considerations we make throughout the customer journey to help people feel seen.
Whether you're selling high, mid or low ticket items, through personal conversations or chatting in DMs, I’m seeing a few strategies that are working really well for my clients right now.
Here are some practical sales strategies you can apply to your business right away to help you generate more clients in less time.
Reduce Customer Friction
Your sales process needs to be as easy as possible for your potential clients. While intentional customer friction can be part of filtering out non-ideal clients, the rest of the process should be seamless.
The people who are interested in your offerings need to know exactly what the next steps are. Make it effortless for them to say yes. If there are too many roadblocks or uncertainties, you might find people drift away because it’s just too hard.
Invite Behind-the-Scenes Access
The second strategy involves giving potential clients a glimpse of what they'll get when they choose you. Regardless of whether your offerings are low, mid, or high-ticket, showing a sneak peek into the experience can build trust and alleviate fears.
This might mean displaying the curriculum on a sales page or offering a video walkthrough for higher-ticket items. Whether it's a short video or a full open house experience, showcasing what happens behind the scenes helps potential clients feel more assured about their investment.
Highlight Success Stories and Case Studies
When I’m on a sales call or chatting in DM’s, I often share stories about how I've helped others achieve similar goals. Real-life examples help potential clients see their own success and having those tangible examples can reinforce their trust and confidence in deciding to work with you.
The overarching theme of these strategies is about building trust. You already know that you can provide amazing support to people through your courses and programs. Now it’s about reducing any unnecessary friction, being transparent with your offerings and providing real life examples of how you’ve helped solve the same problem for others.
Let me know how you go with these strategies. I’d love to know what’s working for you in your business.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Mastermind" on Instagram to find out about the Scalable Freedom Mastermind
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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It’s safe to say it’s the wild west out here in the online space right now.
So how can you best thrive and succeed right now during Q4 selling season?
Today I’m sharing with you five things I recommend you do right now if you are really wanting to show up in the best possible way during this season.
These tips are centred around mindset, habit motivation and momentum so you can feel really energised and excited to succeed over the next 60 days ahead of Christmas.
So, grab your notes and join me as we explore:
1. Cultivating Good Habits
2. Short-Term Trade-Offs for Long-Term Gains
3. Messaging with Precision in a Noisy World
4. Having an Omnipresent Marketing Approach
5. Adapting and Pivoting Smartly
This Q4, let's embrace the chaos and convert it into opportunities for growth. Here’s to smashing your sales targets and sharing your unique magic with the world. You’ve got this!
If you’re eager to deep-dive into strategic planning and marketing to stack recurring revenue, join me for a complimentary masterclass (click the link below!) This session is designed to provide you with the insight and strategies to scale your business sustainably, not just through Q4 but well into 2025.
LINKS
Resources mentioned: FREE Masterclass
DM me the word "Video" on Instagram to receive my FREE video sales letter script
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Scaling a business requires you to sacrifice more of your time and effort. It’s an unfortunate reality that all entrepreneurs need to accept.
Or is it?
I argue that this widely held belief is just a trap that holds us back from achieving our goals.
Many of my clients initially expressed concerns like, "I don't have the time to take on more people," or "How will I market effectively?" They're already pouring every ounce of energy into client delivery. It leads to a vicious cycle, where scaling seems synonymous with burnout or failure.
But here's a vital truth: scaling smarter, not harder, is entirely within reach. Let me share some pivotal strategies that have transformed not just my work, but also the businesses of so many women I admire.
1. Crafting the Right Offer Strategy: Rather than haphazardly casting an offer into the market, engage in meaningful conversations with current clients to refine what you can provide. I vividly remember spending numerous hours in one-to-one consultancy, feeling drained. It was market research and a clear offer refinement that transitioned me into a thriving mastermind model. Your offer should feel enticing both to you and your clients — a win-win.
2. Keep it Clear and Concise: Effective, strategic marketing needn't monopolise your time. Clear scheduling and messaging are your allies here. Take clients who've successfully used a mix of paid and organic marketing, like Facebook ads paired with robust email strategies. The key is not simply creating more content, but ensuring each piece you make works hard across multiple platforms. By doing so, your messaging reaches further without demanding additional labour from you.
3. Smart Pricing Strategy: Lastly, revisit your pricing strategy to guide clients towards your new, scalable offer. Often, the allure of one-to-one services persists due to perceived value, meaning your model will remain labour-intensive unless adjusted. Either remove non-scalable services or adjust their pricing to encourage clients towards your scalable offerings. This strategy not only aligns pricing with business growth but also preserves your time.
Ultimately, smart scaling frees up your time, allowing for more growth and increased revenue. It’s not about working harder but working with precision. I’ve used these strategies to scale with confidence and spaciousness—and I want the same for you.
LINKS
DM me the word "Video" on Instagram to receive my FREE video sales letter script
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I’ve got a super practical episode for you today, talking all things marketing tactics and what I’m seeing work for my clients right now. If you’re ready to generate more dream clients in less time, make sure you take notes so you can implement these 4 strategies in your business right away.
9-Word Email
One standout strategy is the 9-word email, a brainchild of Dean Jackson from the real estate world. This is a great tactic to re-engage any warm leads you might have with a quick question that speaks to their problem. You send a really brief email, only one sentence long that might look something like this:
Subject: Sarah, quick question for you
Email: Are you still interested in finding new ways to boost engagement?
A client of mine recently used this strategy and from the three people who replied, two of those leads converted into 1:1 clients. Try it out this week and see what happens!
Video Sales Letter
The next strategy that I see really working is the video sales letter. Imagine putting together a short, snappy five to seven-minute video that’s essentially your sales pitch on camera. It's perfect for offering a more personal touch while walking potential clients through who you are and what you can do for them. I had a client try it out, and she literally doubled her sales calls. If you’re stressing over the script, I’ve got you covered—just DM me the word "video" on Instagram, and I'll hook you up with a script I created.
Messaging that Hits Home
I see a lot of people attracting clients who aren’t quite their vibe. The solution here is to focus on the quality problems that your ideal clients experience. For example, if you're a business coach, aim for those motivated to grow and thrive rather than those just coasting along.
This approach has helped me attract the most amazing women who are ready to tackle big challenges. So, focus your messaging on targeting the problems that matter to the clients you dream of working with.
Quickie Lead Magnets
The quickie lead magnet is all about using tools you already have and turning them into quick wins for your audience. Maybe it's something you're using with a client right now or perhaps something you use all the time in your own business. A quickie lead magnet is easy to create because you already have it on hand and you just need to pop your logo on it.
I’d love to hear how you go in implementing some or even all of these strategies into your marketing. Sometimes a simple tweak can lead to incredible results.
LINKS
DM me the word "Video" on Instagram to receive my FREE Video Sales Letter script
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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One of the major narratives circulating these days is about taking risks and going all in with no backup plan. While that might be exciting and motivating for some entrepreneurs, from my experience coaching hundreds of women, creating a sense of safety in your business is completely underrated.
Safety might not sound sexy, but it’s the one feeling that has helped me make the most money. Creating safety doesn’t mean sacrificing ambition—it means anchoring yourself with a foundation that allows you to attract even more abundance. It empowers you to pursue more from a place of confidence rather than fear and to think long-term instead of being stuck in the immediate needs of your business.
Here are three practical ways I cultivate safety within my business:
1. Long-term Planning and Strategy: Rather than chasing monthly targets, I draft year-long plans. This allows for a much broader vision and room for unexpected growth. Planning like this creates stability because it involves projecting future income and strategically allowing for the ‘margin for magic’—that space for surprises and opportunities.
2. Recurring Revenue and High-ticket Offers: Having high-ticket offers, like masterminds with long-term clients, means that I can forecast revenue. That consistency and predictability in my business means that I have the mental and energetic capacity to dream bigger and flow where my creativity takes me.
3. Cashflow Forecasting: I know what cash I have coming in and going out. Understanding and mapping out my cash flow means that I’m never left with that feeling of dread from not being able to pay a bill. Because I know I have substantial cash in reserve, I know my business is safe in any season, which means I can make bold decisions.
I hope this episode is the permission slip you need to create a sense of safety in your business. You don’t have to follow every bro marketing tip out there and risk it all to prove you’re a savvy entrepreneur. Being smart, thinking long-term and creating that sense of nurture and safety in your life can set the foundation for some really big dreams.
LINKS
Download Behind the Scenes of My Business Income Streams & Schedule
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Stepping back into the business world after maternity leave felt like I was re-entering from another dimension. These last few months have been an unexpected masterclass on life and business, and I’m thrilled to share these transformative lessons with you today!
But first, let me give you a bit of a personal update: Sunny, my lovely daughter, is now over three months old, and adjusting to motherhood has been both challenging and rewarding, more so than I ever imagined. The natural trepidation about balancing my role as a CEO and a mother has now settled, and I'm confident in my ability to juggle both roles magnificently.
Less Worry, More Focus: One of the most striking lessons I've learned is how my perspective on worries and challenges has shifted. Before Sunny arrived, I often found myself preoccupied with aspects of my business that I couldn't control, like client retention or the precise implementation of strategies. Now, those concerns seem trivial. My focus has realigned towards things that genuinely matter and that I have control over, like ensuring my clients have the best strategies and experiences. This shift has made me a more effective coach and strategist.
The Power of Stepping Back: Initially, I worried that stepping back from the business for three months would leave me feeling behind. Surprisingly, the opposite proved true. Distance from the daily grind allowed me to assess the industry with a fresh, clear lens. It has shown me the importance of not being overly immersed, as it can often stifle creativity. By stepping back, I could see where I had been giving away my creative power, and it rejuvenated my approach to business strategy.
Value-Driven Business: During my time away, I became acutely aware of how deeply I respect and align with my clients' values. I work with women whose opinions I value, who operate at high levels of intelligence, and who live intentionally. This break helped me reaffirm my desire to work with clients who share my values of family focus, impact, and a discerning approach to business. It's about finding clients whose principles resonate deeply with mine.
From Scarcity to Abundance: For the past few years, especially while trying to conceive Sunny, I had slipped into the mindset of ensuring 'just enough' – just enough money, just enough clients, just enough time. I didn’t realise how much this scarcity thinking weighed me down. Maternity leave was a revelation; it became clear that I can thrive genuinely and fully in both my roles as a mother and a CEO. The belief that becoming a mother would limit my capacity was entirely unfounded. Today, I embrace an abundance mindset, recognising that I can do more, be more, and hold more than ever before.
Balancing Work and Motherhood: Returning to work presented its challenges and triumphs. My schedule now includes dedicated days for work and family, supported by my partner, Che, my mother, and an incredible nanny. Despite the chaos and adjustments, this balance allows me to be present for Sunny while continuing to grow and nurture my business.
I’m immensely grateful to be back, sharing this space with you. Whether you’re in a similar season of life or a completely different phase, I hope these reflections provide some inspiration. Let’s continue to grow, learn, and support each other through every chapter.
Love,
Ellie
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Picture this: You’re an incredibly talented entrepreneur with unique insights and valuable expertise, but no one knows your name. Frustrating, isn’t it? That’s where today’s guest host Kerry Rowett found herself—until she decided to change the game.
Kerry is an Intuitive Business Energetics Mentor who works with highly successful entrepreneurs. In her Mastermind and 1:1 sessions Kerry helps her clients to clarify what they want and their aligned pathway to creating that. Kerry provides the Business energetics, healing & psychology support they require to get out of their own way so they can achieve their goals and then dream bigger.
Are you curious how Kerry broke out of obscurity and cemented herself as a thought leader in her industry? Don’t worry! Today she’s sharing her journey and breaking it down into three actionable steps you can take to do the same.
1. Know Your Clients More Intimately Than Their Best Friend
The first step to standing out in your industry is to understand your clients better than anyone else, even their best friend! Kerry’s method involves in-depth target market research, which includes surveys, polls, and analysing client calls to identify key themes and issues. This deep understanding allows you to refine your signature framework and tailor your services to meet your clients' specific needs
2. Find Your Secret Ingredient That Gets You Known and Paid
Creating a distinct identity in your industry involves finding your unique ingredients. For Kerry this meant evolving her business, which originally centred around the concept of alignment, to better match her clients' needs by integrating business energetics, healing, and psychology. She recommends creating distinctive processes, tools, and models that make your work recognisable, and consistently innovating your approach to stay relevant.
3. Amplify Beyond Your Own Networks
Finally, to establish yourself as a thought leader, you need to reach beyond your bubble and engage with the broader industry. Have conversations with other experts, publish influential content, and become part of larger discussions. The more you put yourself out there, the more people will recognise and respect you.
So, if you’re feeling invisible and undervalued, take Kerry’s story to heart. By following the steps she shared, you can increase your rates, increase demand, and ultimately become one of the leaders in your industry
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Kerry
Instagram: http://instagram.com/kerryrowett
Website: http://alignandattract.com
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/align-attract/id1547065734
Previous Episode from Ellie's podcast: The 'Secret' Ingredient to Standing Out Online: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-secret-ingredient-to-standing-out-online/id1526779357?i=1000569694236
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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What’s your relationship with money?
If someone were to take a look at your credit card or bank statement, would they be able to tell what your true priorities in life are?
Perhaps they’d find money is being spent by default in a way that doesn't put an emphasis on what you say truly matters. That would no doubt be true for a lot of us.
This week on the podcast, we welcome guest host Katy Almstrom, a leading money mentor and wealth coach, teacher and speaker who helps ambitious women achieve financial freedom.
With over a decade of experience in teaching and coaching combined with her own debt-free and simplified life, Katy provides a unique service for her clients to help them slow down, map out their own joyful wealth-building journey, and create a life that has WAY less stress around money.
Katy is an expert on how to refocus in order to gain control over your finances, run your business in a way that’s true to you and make the most revenue in the least amount of time.
Today, she shares three specific lessons she learnt about managing money from building her own successful mastermind:
Be More YouLong-Term Vision with Short-Term FocusQuestion EverythingIf you're feeling stuck, tired or overwhelmed right with your money or your business, take these insights from Katy to heart and know that there are simple steps you can take to achieve the time and financial freedom you’re dreaming of.
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Katy
Instagram: @katy_almstrom
Website: https://www.katyalmstrom.com/
Messy to Magnetic Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/messy-to-magnetic/id1594671912
FB Community: www.facebook.com/groups/networthwoman
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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When life as an entrepreneur feels like juggling a million different tasks, how do you successfully maintain harmony between work and personal life - all while continuing to see growth in your business?
Our guest host today, Karen Aird, has not only mastered this balance but has actually doubled her business revenue along the way.
She describes co-founding urban retreat Clear Mind Studio with her husband Craig in 2008 as a personal quest to help others reduce stress and find peace and balance in a fast paced, constantly evolving world.
Whether it's unwinding after a hectic week or seeking time out from life's challenges, Karen’s journey towards peace in her business has been incredible - and just like for many of us, filled with lots of challenges, triumphs and failures along the way.
In this episode, Karen shares her learnings from the five strategic changes she made to free up time and take her business to new heights:
1. Implementing AI for Client Management
2. Utilising Asana for Team Communication
3. Planning Marketing Campaigns in Advance
4. Overstaffing, Outsourcing and Clear Role Allocation
5. Implementing a Customer Loyalty Program
By implementing these strategic changes, Karen and Craig have drastically transformed Clear Mind Studio. These modifications freed up their time, allowing them to seize opportune moments for growth—such as opening their second studio in Fremantle, WA.
Their ability to focus on strategic growth rather than getting bogged down in daily operations has been instrumental, and shows how the right strategies can make all the difference in transforming your business dreams into reality.
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Karen
Instagram: @clearmindstudio
Website: https://www.clearmindstudio.com/
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Have you ever felt the strain of balancing your business ambitions with your personal well-being? Imagine if you could have both—success and freedom. Well, it’s not an easy task, but today’s guest host Mia Poklepovich has made it her reality.
As a mental health occupational therapist, she knows how difficult it can be to prioritise your own needs in a service-based business. Struggling with burnout, Mia knew she needed a change and went on a journey to create a thriving, impactful business without sacrificing her well-being. She’s here today to share the strategies and mindset shifts that made it possible. Ready to be inspired? You’re in the right place!
Lesson 1: Permission to Create a Freedom-Based Business
Mia’s first lesson is that you need to give yourself permission to build a freedom-based business. This was challenging for Mia at the beginning and she still falls into old habits from time to time, but she has a secret weapon! Look at what your end goal is, and work backward from there. This way, every opportunity and decision can be checked against your overarching goal, ensuring it aligns with your freedom-based strategy.
Lesson 2: Protecting Your Energy as a CEO
Mia’s second lesson is the importance of protecting your energy, a lesson that rings especially true in the demanding field of health and wellness. As business owners, we often put ourselves last, looking after our clients, team, and community first. However, Mia stresses that to help others effectively, you must take care of yourself first. This might mean saying no, delegating tasks, or taking the necessary rest time.
Lesson 3: Trusting Yourself
Mia’s final and maybe most important lesson is that we need to trust ourselves. Scaling a business brings on lots of uncertainties and new challenges. If you can’t trust yourself, you won't be able to make hard decisions when it matters. Mia advises gathering all necessary data and knowledge to understand where the fear is coming from, whether it's an old core belief or the natural anxiety of trying something new. By breaking down your fears and understanding their origins, you empower yourself to move past them.
So, if you're looking to transform your therapy practice or any business into a freedom-based model, take a leaf out of Mia’s book. Give yourself permission to live and work freely, protect your energy, and trust yourself. The journey won’t get easier, but you will become stronger, wiser, and more resilient.
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Mia:
Instagram: @ot_inspire_therapy
Instagram: @miapoko
Website: https://www.otinspire.com.au/
Freedom Therapist Club: https://otinspireaustralia.mykajabi.com/The-Freedom-Therapist-Club
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Building a successful business is no small feat, especially when juggling family responsibilities and personal aspirations.
Just ask this week’s guest host, Jacqui Naunton who went from graphic design freelancer to running a six-figure business with multiple revenue streams, all while juggling the demands of motherhood. Today she’s sharing her remarkable journey, and the strategies and mindset shifts that fuelled her success. Ready to be inspired?
Jacqui began her career as a graphic designer and was just swapping time for money. This strategy worked well for her, until she started considering motherhood and realised she needed a more scalable, flexible approach. This is where I came in and encouraged her to create an online course.
Now the leap from graphic designer to course creator wasn’t seamless. She struggled with imposter syndrome, and the idea of upsetting other graphic designers but she knew that the gap in the market needed to be filled.
Business owners were already attempting to DIY their graphics using tools like Canva, often with mediocre results. Jacqui’s course offered them a chance to create professional designs without the hefty price tag of hiring a designer.
One powerful lesson from Jacqui's journey is the importance of setting high goals. Early in her coaching journey with me, she had modest expectations for her first online course. With some encouragement, she stretched her target to 55 students—and astonishingly, she hit that exact number.
So, if you’re setting goals for your business, I encourage you to ask yourself, "Is this the goal, or can I aim higher?" The objective isn't to tie your self-worth to these targets but to give yourself something tangible to strive for.
Something else that has really helped Jacqui’s journey was building a supportive team for herself. She realised that to grow her business sustainably, she couldn't do it all herself. She hired a virtual assistant, video editor, and multiple designers. Although this meant a smaller profit margin, it allowed her to focus on her priorities, ensuring her business ran smoothly while she spent valuable time with her family.
The Power of Branding
As a graphic designer, Jacqui knows the importance of strong branding, that goes beyond just the aesthetics. Branding is a powerful tool for connecting with your ideal audience and conveying your business's values. For Jacqui, her brand as the girl in the purple jacket reflects her values of fun, inspiration, and empowerment. This consistency in branding has made her business recognisable and trustworthy, enhancing her professional image and attracting ideal clients.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your business to the next level, consider how Jacqui’s lessons can apply to your business. What goals will you set higher today? How will you adapt your business to fit your life? I can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve.
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Jacqui:
Instagram: @whitedeerGD
Website: https://whitedeer.com.au/
Podcast: The Seriously in Business Podcast
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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In the wild ride that is entrepreneurship, the ability to pivot when necessary is an absolute game-changer.
However, the idea of shaking things up can feel much too risky - especially when it comes to continuing to generate revenue.
But is it possible to shift gears without losing your hard-earned momentum?
Today’s guest host is here to answer that question for you! Robyn Birkin is an online business strategist who helps female service providers and course creators create a six and multi-six-figure business in part-time hours with just one front-facing signature program.
Once a well-recognised life coach for women navigating infertility, Robyn made a gutsy decision to flip her business focus on its head. Now, as a thriving online business strategist, she’s sharing her secrets on how to keep the money rolling in—even when you’re making a radical shift in your business.
Embracing the Pivot
Robyn believes that pivoting shouldn’t just be about chasing more money—it's about aligning your work with your values and long-term goals. She encourages us as entrepreneurs to get real with ourselves. Ask yourself the question: Does my current business align with what I want my legacy to be? Am I genuinely passionate about it? If the answers are no, it might be time for a big change.
The Decision-Making Framework
To help others navigate this challenging territory, Robyn developed an effective decision-making framework. At its core, it’s all about ensuring your business aligns with your goals and values. She believes the key is in being honest with yourself about what excites you and what doesn’t.
One of the hardest but most crucial steps is being willing to ‘slingshot’—taking a step back temporarily to make a more significant leap forward. This might mean letting go of a part of your business that no longer fits, even if it’s currently bringing in revenue.
5 Key Strategies for Generating Revenue During a Pivot
So what are some practical ways to continue to make money during a radical change in your business? Robyn shares the strategies that worked for her that will give you the confidence to brave a pivot:
1. Double Down on What's Worked
2. Create Growth, Nurture and Conversion Content
3. Rely on Data
4. Balance Marketing and Sales Efforts
5. Constantly Refine Messaging
Being a CEO sometimes means making hard decisions and pushing through the discomfort to get to your true purpose. But waiting for you on the other side is that deeply fulfilling life and career you set out to create in the first place.
LINKS
The FREE Mastermind Launch Playbook
Connect with Robyn:
Instagram: @robynbirkin
Website: https://robynbirkin.com/
Podcast: Signature Online Course Secrets
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Running a business can feel like a juggling act, especially when you're managing the demands of work and family life.
Today’s guest host, Bec Cuzzillo knows this struggle all too well, but, through strategic planning and intentional decision-making, she was able to find the balance.
Bec is a Spiritual Business Coach for spiritual women ready to scale their impact, create confident cash, and step into the highest vision for their life and business. As a fiery Aries mama of 2, Bec built a scalable business model that thrives alongside her busy family life. Join us as we unpack her strategies and learn how to build a business that adapts to your unique needs.
Simplify, Simplify, Simplify
Years ago, when she became a new mother, Bec realised her business was spread too thin across multiple areas. Recognising the need for change, she narrowed her focus to the things that truly brought in revenue or value. Here is her advice for other business owners:
Assess What’s Selling Well: Identify which of your offers are your major income earners. Focus your energy on these.Evaluate Energetically: What excites you? Where do you feel the most drained? Align your business activities with what lights you up.Trim the Fat: Use data and gut instinct to cut back on offers that aren’t serving you effectively.Strategy Matters
After you’ve simplified, the next step is focusing on strategy! To do this you need a good understanding of who your client is and exactly how you serve them. Consider the following questions:
How are people currently coming into your world, and where are they going next?How scalable is your business right now, and how can you optimise it for more scalability?What tweaks can you make in your current business model to improve it before creating something new?Designing a Self-Centric Business Model
Bec’s final pillar for creating a scalable business model is to align your business with your needs and desires. You didn’t start your business to feel trapped in another 9-to-5 grind, so take the time and set it up to serve you. If you’re not sure how to do this, reflecting on these questions is a good place to start:
What’s Important to You? Identify your core values in life and ensure your business decisions honour these.What are your current responsibilities and commitments? Design your business around them to maintain a healthy work-life balance.What aspects of your business make you genuinely happy? Prioritise these to maintain your passion and drive.Building a scalable, adaptable business model is not just a dream – it’s entirely possible with intentional decisions and consistent effort. So, take a leaf out of Bec’s book and start rethinking your business model today. What can you simplify? Where can you get more strategic? And most importantly, how can you design a business that truly works for you?
LINKS
Connect with Bec Cuzzillo
Website: https://www.beccuzzillo.com
Podcast: Feminine Fire
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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For those of you who may not know, I’ve just welcomed my beautiful baby girl, Sunnie Marg Robinson, into the world. From unexpected challenges to moments of pure joy, this experience has reshaped my perspective on life and business. So, I’m taking a quick break from my maternity leave to share with you my birth story and the incredible mindset lessons it taught me.
Our journey began months before Sunnie arrived. At around 25 to 30 weeks, we discovered she was breech. Though I tried everything from inversions and acupuncture to chiropractics and moxibustion to flip her, Sunnie was steadfast in her position. This initial phase tested my mindset significantly, especially my preparation for a C-section, scheduled for the 11th of July—interestingly at 11:11 AM. Yet, just four days before the planned C-section, Sunnie miraculously flipped!
While I had mentally prepared for a c-section, I was overjoyed that I could return to my original plan of a vaginal birth. This experience reminded me of the immense power of mindset flexibility, where embracing uncertainty and adapting to changes became paramount.
The next two weeks were an excruciating yet exhilarating waiting game for natural labour to kick in. My heart was set on avoiding induction, so every waking moment was spent walking, eating dates, and doing stretches, all while hoping to trigger spontaneous labour. Just one day before my scheduled induction, labour finally began with a stretch and sweep, igniting contractions almost immediately.
Affirmations and breathing techniques were my lifelines. I was deeply rooted in calmness, thanks to hypnobirthing preparations. As contractions intensified, my partner Chay’s whispered affirmations anchored me: "You're so powerful," "Your body was made to do this," and "You've got this." These affirmations were soothing and reinforced my belief in my capabilities. They also reflected the mindset strategies I have long applied in business.
Arriving at the hospital at 2 AM, I was prepared for the next phase. Asking for an epidural became a saga of its own, extending over two grueling hours due to an emergency C-section elsewhere. This unexpected delay pushed my mindset to its limits. I found myself physically and mentally shaken, but Chay's unwavering support helped me re-anchor into my strength.
The key lesson here is knowing you can go further than you think possible. In business and life, we set boundaries for ourselves, but often, we are capable of much more when pushed to our edges.
During the final stages of labour involving pushing and crowning, I realised the importance of support. Surrounded by an amazing medical team and listening to our birthing playlist, I felt an overwhelming sense of empowerment. Even when a final push required additional assistance with a vacuum because of Sunnie’s large head size, I didn’t feel defeated. Instead, I felt an immense gratitude for the support that ensured a safe delivery.
As I looked into Sunnie’s eyes for the first time, I felt an immense wave of gratitude and growth. Each step of labour taught me lessons about strength, patience, and the importance of mental preparedness. I hope that my experiences resonate with you and provide some insights into the incredible power of the human mind during life’s most challenging moments.
LINKS
Connect with Ellie:
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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