Episodes
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In this episode, I'm coming to you fresh off household sickness—one of those brutal rounds where everyone was unwell and you're juggling a sick baby alongside everything else. But here's what I've learnt: there's always an ascension on the other side of challenging seasons.
Today I'm sharing the five essential things I've mastered to maintain $50-100K months during my first year as a mama. These insights aren't just about motherhood—they're about sustaining high-performing business operations when life throws you massive changes and you're still running everything yourself.
I dive into the real strategies that have kept my business humming while navigating the biggest personal transformation of my life. From learning not to mess with what's already working to finding your groove in a completely new season, these are lessons from the trenches of balancing high-level business performance with new motherhood.
I cover everything from embracing your support squad to keeping personal stuff from messing with your business headspace, especially during hormone-driven postpartum moments. I also share how discipline paired with flexibility became my secret weapon for maintaining standards while adapting to a little one dictating my schedule.
Whether you're going through your own major life transition or want to future-proof your business, these insights prove that major life changes don't spell disaster for your business—they show just how resilient and adaptive you can truly be.
LINKS
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Today, I’m taking you through one of the most fundamental marketing principles that never goes out of style—getting hyper-specific with the problems you're solving in your business. When business isn't quite popping off like we envisioned, it's time to go back to basics, and this is where so many entrepreneurs get it wrong. Our brains try to convince us that bigger, broader problems will attract more clients, but the truth is that offers fail to convert when they're too vague or general. People don't pay for nice-sounding concepts like "helping creatives grow their business"—they pay to have real, down-to-earth problems solved.
I break down what makes a problem truly hyper-specific and why it matters so much for your business success. I also share real examples from my own clients, including one who's tackling fear around raising prices and another helping newly diagnosed ADHD individuals find their ground, showing you exactly how pinpointing these issues can transform your messaging and results.
This episode includes practical before-and-after examples that demonstrate the power of precise messaging, from transforming "I help women build businesses they love" into something that actually speaks to a specific audience with a tangible problem and solution. So, join me as we uncover how to help your hyper-specific ideal client solve their hyper-specific problem – with that magic, hyper-specific solution!
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode, I’m opening up about navigating the beautiful complexity of life as a new mother in my mid-thirties while running a business during significant market shifts. If you're feeling the weight of constant flux—whether from macro factors like AI advancements and market changes or personal challenges like caring for children or aging parents—you'll understand why grounding principles have become my anchor. I share how living by design rather than default has transformed my approach to both business and motherhood.
I’m taking you through the 7 principles that are most resonant for me right now, starting with the reality of trade-offs as a working mum and why knowing your boundaries is essential for maintaining sanity and energy. We explore the mindset shift that comes with accepting that business isn't meant to be easy, the power of intentional daily habits and how staying connected to your deeper purpose acts as an anchor when life feels chaotic. I also dive into finding beauty in the building process rather than rushing to the finish line, and why your response to challenges matters more than the challenges themselves.
We wrap up with a reminder about the power of authenticity and why being yourself is your greatest competitive advantage. I share practical insights on how these principles show up in my daily life, from weekly boundary reviews to simple breathing exercises that set the tone for intentional days. My hope is that you can take what feels true for you and leave the rest, using these insights to help you lead with energy and inspiration while truly loving your life amidst whatever season you're experiencing.
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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We know that things constantly shift in the online space, and it often makes me wonder what I’d do differently in business if I were starting with all the insights I have now. As someone who understands the juggling act of scaling while staying true to what lights your soul on fire, I'm breaking down six game-changing strategies that have transformed not only my own business but the incredible results my clients are achieving.
I walk you through the foundational elements that separate six and seven-figure businesses from the rest: nailing your niche and signature framework, creating consistent content across both long-form and short-form platforms and finding the perfect balance between organic relationship-building and paid marketing strategies. We also explore how embracing systems, team support and AI can become your secret weapons for scaling without burning out, plus why cultivating a rock-solid mindset is absolutely crucial for making those big leaps in business.
We wrap up with my thoughts on the power of focus in a world designed to distract us, including practical strategies for structuring your days around deep work sessions and protecting your energy from endless trends and shiny objects.
If you're hitting that exciting $100K mark or pushing past multi-six figures and ready to soar even higher, I'd love to have you join me in my Scalable Freedom Mastermind, where strategy meets soulful connection with bespoke support every step of the way. Head over to ellieswift.com/mastermind to jump on the waitlist and let's make 2025 your breakthrough year!
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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In this episode, I'm sharing why I've brought a weekly newsletter back into my business strategy and why it deserves the spotlight in your marketing mix. With email being 40 times more likely to convert than social media, newsletters offer something social platforms can't—direct access to your audience without algorithm interference.
I share why I've fallen back in love with long-form writing and how newsletters give me the space to dig deeper than social media catchphrases, offering genuine, heartfelt advice that feels like a chat with your bestie over coffee.
I walk you through my approach to crafting each newsletter, starting with whatever story or theme has been on my mind that week, then weaving in mindset, marketing and strategy insights alongside personal anecdotes and tried-and-tested strategies. This isn't about mass-production content—it's heartfelt communication that deepens relationships with each email. I also share the early data from our renewed newsletter journey, including solid open rates and one specific trick that's working well: resending emails to unopened recipients 24 hours later with a fresh subject line.
If you're thinking about launching or refreshing your newsletter, I share my practical approach: scribble down ideas as they come, draw inspiration from what you love to read, tell your stories authentically and keep your creation process manageable and genuine. I've found such joy in returning to long-form writing, and if you want to join me on this journey, you can sign up at ellieswift.com/ceomoves or just drop me a "moves" on Instagram for fresh content delivered to your inbox every week.
Happy writing!
LINKS:
Newsletter signup: www.ellieswift.com/ceomoves
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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"I am really in awe of how well everything functions within this business. It's not chaotic in any capacity."
This was the message I received from my newest team member and I can tell you, that lack of chaos she feels is very, very intentional.
Running a business without physical walls comes with its own set of challenges. The absence of spontaneous coffee chats and in-person energy means we need to be even more deliberate about how we create structure and connection. Today, I'm sharing my top leadership and team tips that have transformed Swift Ventures from a potentially chaotic virtual space into what my team member called a "beautifully well-oiled business."
Intention Over Chaos
Every Sunday night, I set aside 30 minutes to map out the week ahead. This isn't just about listing tasks – it's about creating mental space to lead from the front foot rather than constantly playing catch-up.
A calm business is a regulated business. Think about how you show up as a leader. Are you bringing steady, grounded energy or frantic, reactive vibes? The difference ripples through your entire team.
Systems on Systems
Hearing someone describe my business as "well-oiled" brings me genuine joy. Not because I'm obsessed with perfection, but because those systems represent freedom – both for me, my team and my clients.
Every process in our business lives in Asana, creating a backbone that supports our creativity rather than stifling it. From content creation to client onboarding, we have systems for everything. This doesn’t mean we are rigid, but more that our systems provide a framework that allows us to evolve and grow.
The Art of Virtual Connection
As a leader, everything comes back to me. So when something goes wrong in my business, I don’t point the finger and blame. I’ve been very intentional to create a culture where we ask the question, “ what do we need to do here so that this doesn't happen again?”
Our Slack channels have become our virtual hallways – spaces where ideas flow, celebrations happen, and yes, sometimes silly GIFs are shared. With a team working in three different time zones, we rely heavily on really clear communication through Slack so that everyone knows exactly what is happening.
Embracing Mistakes With Grace
A business that functions well is one where people don't arrive feeling dysregulated or fearful of making mistakes. We hold high standards at Swift Ventures, but we pair them with high support.
When someone messes up – including me – we follow a simple approach: apologise, own it, call it out, and move forward. No dramatic reactions, no lingering tension. Just acknowledgment, learning, and progress.
What I've learned through building this virtual team is that exceptional leadership often reveals itself in the smallest moments – how you respond to a mistake, how attentively you listen, how clearly you communicate your vision. These seemingly minor interactions create the foundation for everything else.
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Let's chat about 2025. Businesses are feeling the pressure. Launches aren't hitting the way they used to, consumer behaviour is shifting and the tension from international trade disruptions feels like it's in the air we breathe.
But here's the thing: I don't want to just graze through 2025 letting circumstances dictate the story. I want to charge in and make this a year where we, at Swift Ventures, don't just weather the storm—we thrive in it. Consider this your personal pep talk from your business bestie: no matter what 2025 throws our way, with the right mindset and some ingenuity, we can turn challenges into our greatest opportunities!
So, let’s take a look at what Swift Ventures is doing to ensure we remain 'all in' this year, and ready to seize whatever comes our way.
Key Takeaways:
Experiment with AI tools through hands-on exploration rather than theoretical learningConsider how your core offerings might need a refresh for today's marketEmbrace iteration as a strength, not a weaknessInvest in genuine relationships that support you through market fluctuationsConnect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I’ve noticed a recurring theme lately when chatting to clients who run mastermind groups. It's this uneasy feeling that your business model, instead of granting freedom, is feeling more like a cage. The fact that this keeps coming up tells me there’s some sort of problem in the zeitgeist that we need to solve. So, whether you're running a mastermind or any online business, let's uncover why it might feel stifling right now—and how we can steer it back to the freedom lane.
In this episode, we take a look into the freedom zappers that might be affecting your business - from racing against the clock to that persistent emotional exhaustion that keeps you from your creative best. We explore practical solutions, including setting stronger boundaries, moving away from excessive customisation, restructuring your time for better energy flow and ensuring you're working with aligned clients who energise rather than drain you.
Freedom within your business is totally achievable with the right strategies in place. And with these actionable tips, you can start to see real change.
If you’re keen to dive deeper, the Mastermind Model is on its way back with fresh insights to transform your business experience. To be the first in the know, hop onto the waitlist at ellieswift.com/mastermindmodel. Big things are on the horizon!
Key Takeaways:
• Reassess and reinstate your boundaries - be clear about what you will and won't do
• Replace over-customisation with smart systems that maintain quality
• Structure your schedule around energy peaks (try the 3-week call cycle)
• Align with the right clients - it's okay to be selective
• Remember: Every business model can feel confining - the key is adjusting rather than abandoning
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Most business success stories start with the wins. The revenue, the growth, the perfectly curated journey to the top. But Sonja Pototzki-Raymond (aka the Search Queen) flips the script entirely as we talk about what it means to be resilient in business.
Sonja is the brilliant mind behind The Search Republic, a digital agency that's helped generate over $700 million in client sales. She is a CEO, Google search expert, author, keynote speaker, and fertility advocate. But there's so much more to her story than her impressive resume.
During our conversation, Sonja shared a raw, honest look at what resilience really means. Instead of promoting the usual 'push through at all costs' mentality, she shared a more nuanced perspective that really resonated with me. It's about building sustainable strength through the most challenging times of life, honoring both the darkness and the light.
Sonja and I actually met through our IVF journeys. It's these kinds of personal challenges that have shaped both our approaches to resilience in life and business. Sonja’s four year journey to bring her first baby girl into the world also birthed her first book, The Search for Resilience, the go-to guidebook to stand strong and awaken the warrior to fight life's toughest battles.
What I love about Sonja's approach is how she challenges the perfectly polished version of entrepreneurship we often see on social media. She's not afraid to acknowledge that building a business isn't a straight path to success. Some days flow smoothly, while others test every ounce of your determination and skill.
We spent time exploring what true resilience looks like in practice and why Sonja believes business is the ultimate personal development journey.
One of the most refreshing parts of our discussion was about the misconceptions surrounding entrepreneurial success. Social media often shows us the highlight reel – the wins, the celebrations, the perfectly curated moments. But as Sonja emphasises, real business growth happens in those unseen moments of challenge and adaptation. It's about embracing both the victories and the setbacks as equally valuable parts of the journey.
If you're looking to develop your own resilience in business, Sonja's book "The Search for Resilience" has officially hit the shelves and offers a wonderfully honest guide to navigating the entrepreneurial journey. I know you’re going to love her genuine, heartfelt approach to building strength through authenticity.
Connect with Sonja:
Book: The Search for Resilience: Awaken the Warrior in Business and Life
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sonjathesearchqueen/
Connect with Ellie:
Apply for the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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Have you ever stopped to truly consider the value of the relationships you cultivate in your professional life—especially within masterminds? This is a topic I absolutely love to dive into and today we’re exploring it through an incredible conversation with the brilliant Selena Soo.
Selena is a seven-figure publicity and marketing strategist and author who specialises in helping visionary entrepreneurs, experts and authors reach millions with their message. She has helped clients get featured in outlets like Oprah Magazine and Forbes and reach six and seven figures in their businesses. Her signature approach comes down to building powerful and long lasting relationships with influencers and the media in a thoughtful, authentic way.
In this episode, we’re talking about how rich relationships can help you build your business, make you more money and how to leverage those relationships through masterminds.
We discuss:
How masterminds provide a unique space for building genuine, valuable connections with peers and mentors who can transform your journeySuccess in masterminds coming from intentional vulnerability and sharing both wins and struggles openly, allowing others to support you while creating more meaningful connections.Contributing actively to the mastermind community, whether through offering help or seeking advice, and how forming smaller groups enables more impactful relationships.Carefully curating groups with aligned goals and values while encouraging participants to form meaningful connections that extend beyond surface-level networking.The 6 circles of connection and how they can help you determine where different relationships sit in your lifeAs Selena eloquently puts it, the true essence of a rich relationship is in its capacity to elevate all those involved. By integrating rich relationships into your strategy alongside your business goals, you open yourself up to a network that can move you forward in ways you never imagined.
For those interested in digging deeper into mastering these relationships, Selena offers a free gift with the first four chapters of her book and exclusive rich relationship scripts. You can find these incredible resources at RichRelationshipsBook.com/ellie.
Connect with Selena:
Website: https://www.selenasoo.com/
Instagram: @selena_soo
Connect with Ellie:
Be the first to know when doors open to the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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There's something so beautiful about running an in-person workshop. Especially if you operate mostly online, like I do. I had been craving some in-person connection with my people and decided to host “The Million Dollar Funnel” workshop in Melbourne. This was my very first in-person workshop which I was so excited to deliver and was super prepared for.
Today, I’m sharing with you the lessons I learned from running this workshop to help you avoid some of the pitfalls that I came across and build your own successful workshop for your people too.
In a world where we're all too familiar with the glow of our screens, I felt a deep pull towards creating something more tangible. This wasn't just about business strategy; it was about satisfying a fundamental human need for connection. Melbourne became our meeting point, bringing together ambitious entrepreneurs from both Australian coasts, serving as our "test kitchen" before expanding to Perth later in 2025.
The magic revealed itself in three distinct ways:
Quality Over Quantity
Instead of drowning my attendees in information, I distilled the content down to three core messages. Like a well-crafted song, it wasn't about how much we covered - it was about hitting the right notes.
Live Coaching
Here's what surprised me most: the moments I feared might fall flat became the highlights. Live coaching sessions weren't just participated in - they were celebrated. It was a powerful reminder that sometimes the best teaching happens in these spontaneous, real-world moments.
Clear Intentions
By being crystal clear about our focus - messaging and front-end marketing rather than technical details - we created a space where everyone could dive deep into what truly mattered.
Because growth is about honesty, here's what I'd do differently:
Strip It Back Even Further
Even with my intentional content curation, there was room to do less. Sometimes, the most powerful learning happens in the spaces between the content.
Energy Management: A Lesson In Timing
Scheduling the workshop right after a family holiday? Not my smartest move. It created a mental tug-of-war that didn't serve anyone. Note to self: clear space, clear mind.
The Power of the Close
When it came to the final pitch, fatigue had crept in. It was a reminder that endings deserve their own energy, their own space to breathe and land with impact.
These insights aren't just notes in my journal - they're the building blocks for what's next. For those in Perth eager to join this journey of in-person connection and transformation, I'm already envisioning our next gathering.
What I know now is this: the magic doesn't just happen in the planning or the perfect execution - it happens in the genuine moments of connection, in the courage to try something new, and in the wisdom to learn from every experience.
Connect with Ellie:
Be the first to know when doors open to the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I recently attended a mastermind at a beautiful retreat in New South Wales, where I had the privilege of spending time with a bunch of top-tier online entrepreneurs. I was in awe of these incredible humans whose outlooks on life and business were not only inspiring, but transformative for me.
These 7 and 8 figure online entrepreneurs have carved out their niches, successfully designing businesses that serve the lives they truly wish to live. Today, I’m sharing some of the biggest insights and aha moments I gained from my time with them:
- The Power of Choice: Crafting Your Ideal Workday: "How many hours do you want to work each day?" This question really revolutionised my approach. I realised it isn’t about what's possible; it's about what I want and simply making that happen - reshaping my work around my ideal life rather than the reverse.
- Anchoring in Purpose: The "Why" That Drives Success: What truly sets these successful entrepreneurs apart is their unwavering commitment to something greater than just running a business. They are driven by a deeper mission—a purpose that resonates with others. I was reminded to infuse my “why” into everything I do, ensuring that regardless of changing tides.
- Pragmatism Over Analysis: Solving the Right Problems: What does it look like to view your business through a more pragmatic lens, rather than a mindset one? My takeaway with this one is that success and pragmatism are siblings. Instead of mulling over the possibilities, decisions are made, strategies set, movements executed. It’s a powerful stance: look at what needs solving and simply do it.
I hope these insights spark a new way for you to view your business, encouraging you to live and work with intentionality and clarity. Here’s to crafting not just a successful business, but a life that deeply resonates with your core values.
Connect with Ellie:
Be the first to know when doors open to the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I first shared this episode back in 2022, which was just after GDP fell in the first two quarters of the year post covid. Now, we've just had JP Morgan share that the chances of a recession have increased to 60% in the wake of Trump's tariffs.
This is likely to bring about a lot of fear inducing content about what this all means for your business. So, I'm here to remind you, 2025 gets to be a great year for you in business, even if there is some economic turbulence.
This episode is just as relevant now as it was when it was first released so, even if this is your second time listening, I know there will be so many great takeaways for you today.
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I wanted to speak about what I’m seeing and what I believe to be the best approach to take in navigating an impending recession.
In this episode, I’m sharing a series of recommendations and considerations to help you look at your business from every angle and solidify what it is you do, why you do it and also speak to the fear that can surround financial uncertainty.
I share some questions to ask yourself about your ideal client, becoming crystal clear on your messaging and looking at why your product or service is essential to them. I also discuss how thought leadership becomes so important right now, as your clients will be seeking safety and security and looking to you for clarity on what to do during this time.
Get your pen and paper out for this one as I’m sure you’ll want to take some notes and start mapping out a plan or strategy to drive your business forward. I truly believe that your business can continue to thrive, even during times of financial uncertainty.
Connect with Ellie:
Be the first to know when doors open to the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I truly believe that we are in the greatest shift in work since the industrial revolution. AI has completely changed the game and as coaches, mentors, and consultants, we have a choice: Stay ahead of the curve or be left behind.
That’s not at all to bring any sense of fear mongering because my perspective is that as we embrace AI in our businesses, we are saying yes to the opportunity to evolve and expand. In saying that, we do need to be intentional about how we go about it.
Here are five key strategies to futureproof your business with AI in 2025 and beyond.
1. Incorporate AI Imperfectly
For some, the concept of AI is overwhelming but let me assure you, perfection isn't necessary. AI is evolving rapidly and trying to build perfect systems could lead to constant and frustrating updates. Instead, focus on building your AI literacy, experimenting with different prompts and integrations and teaching your clients to do the same. This way, you can continue to adapt alongside advancements without becoming overwhelmed.
2. Double Down on Your Uniquely Human Edge
We all have access to the same information. Therefore, it’s now more than ever that your emotional intelligence, intuition, and storytelling are your defining traits. This is where your personal brand gets to shine because humans crave connection with other humans. By honing your unique skills, you'll create meaningful relationships with your audience that AI simply cannot replace.
3. Audit and Reinvent Your Offers
If your courses or programs are easily replicated by AI, it's time to reconsider what you have on offer. Double down on the things that AI can’t replicate - those high-touch personalised services, community components, and unique insights. People are looking for that human connection within their purchases, so emphasise the human elements to remain indispensable.
4. Position Yourself as a Guide, Not Just a Guru
AI can dish out answers, sure. But, it can’t walk with your clients through the nuances of implementation, mindset shifts, and personal challenges. As a guide, your role is more than just providing solutions; it's about supporting your clients with empathy and personalised insights on their journeys.
5. Get Curious, Not Threatened
With AI in the picture, it's easy to feel intimidated—but I encourage you to replace fear with curiosity. Ask how AI can simplify your work instead of fixating on what it might take from you. Futureproofing your business means embracing technology with optimism and recognising its potential to aid in expansion and abundance.
The landscape is changing rapidly but instead of being scared of how that might impact your business, I hope this episode inspires you to think about how AI can help you grow and expand in ways that previously weren’t possible. I’d love to hear your thoughts and what lands for you. Come connect with me on Instagram and send me a DM.
Connect with Ellie:
Be the first to know when doors open to the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2025): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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There are so many things required from us as women in this modern life, that it’s possible you need a reminder: the whole point of scalable freedom in your business means that you get to create something incredible in your business alongside having an incredible life.
And that means we need to constantly check in and reimagine what it looks like to show up in our business – without tapping into old industrial revolution stories about how we need to work. Today, I’m sharing my insights on how I've successfully integrated a 4 day work week model into my own business through a mastermind framework.
Strategies for a Successful Four-Day Work Week
Let's talk strategy. Moving to a 4 day work week wasn’t about doing less; it was about doing things more efficiently. I’ve adopted several strategies that keep me laser-focused and ensure that my productivity remains high:
1. Prioritising What Matters: My time has become incredibly precious, especially with my daughter involved. I’m extremely discerning about how I spend each moment. If something doesn’t feel worth missing time with Sunny, it doesn’t make the cut.
2. Embracing Deep Work: Tools like the Opal app have been game-changers. By blocking social media during evenings and mornings, I’ve carved out space for deep, uninterrupted work. This focus not only improves productivity but also the quality of work I produce.
3. Communication and Boundaries: Clear communication with my team is vital. Everyone knows I don’t work Fridays, so tasks need to be completed by Thursday afternoon. This clarity ensures that my workweek flows smoothly and that my team can function effectively without my constant availability.
Balancing Work and Personal Life
The beauty of running a mastermind model is its flexibility. Even within my structured workdays, I still find time to show up for my clients, attend to essential tasks and focus on my family. Life calls for us to wear many hats, whether it’s being a parent, a business owner, or a friend. This model allows me to honour each of those roles without spreading myself too thin.
Reimagining What Success Looks Like for You
As we move through Q2, I want to encourage you to reflect on what success looks like for your business. Could a 4 day work week enhance your life too? Remember, life and business shouldn't be a relentless hustle. It’s about finding that sweet spot where you have the freedom to enjoy your life and the satisfaction of running a flourishing business.
I’m excited about the growth this approach can create, should you choose it—not only in your productivity, but in the time and quality you give to your life and loved ones.
Connect with Ellie:
Previous episode mentioned: How I Structure my days, weeks and months as a CEO of a mastermind business model and mama"
Be the first to know when doors open to the Swiftmind Scaled Mastermind (the ONLY chance to be coached by me in 2024): https://ellieswift.com/mastermind
Website: https://www.ellieswift.com/
Instagram: @elliehswift
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/shineonsocialellieswift/
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I'm re-sharing another one of my most popular episodes today and I know this is going to serve you no matter where you're at in business right now.
We all have challenging seasons in business so this episode is all about how to navigate those times and still make decisions from a place of abundance when you're in the thick of it.
Whether you've heard this one already or this is your first time, I believe this is really pertinent to anyone in business right now. Enjoy...
It’s launch season again! If you’re like 99% of my clients, you’re likely in the thick of a launch or a scale in some way right now. We tend to find that February to May is a busy season in business each year, and so I wanted to address something that every business owner should know more about: making abundant decisions when business isn’t going so well.
Every entrepreneur faces challenging seasons at some stage in business. There are failed launches, low sales and generally just difficult moments in their business journey. And while it’s easy to sink down into the fear, I believe experiencing so-called failures is often the thing that propels you forward most in your business so you can course-correct to your biggest months, growth and biggest scale.
Today, I share with you the step-by-step process I use to help navigate these situations and make decisions that support growth, abundance and long-term success.
Sitting in the Shit
Give yourself the space to sit in the negative feelings for a moment. It's okay to acknowledge and feel the disappointment, frustration or fear that comes with a challenging situation. Toxic positivity would tell us to override those emotions in our body, however that doesn't help us move forward. We need to embrace and process our feelings to make room for growth and abundance.
Coming back to Gratitude
Once we've sat with our emotions, it's time to recalibrate back to the frequency of gratitude. Gratitude is the highest frequency we can be in when it comes to decision making and creating abundance. By shifting our focus to gratitude, we tap into our power and gain a fresh perspective that supports making decisions from a place of abundance.
Recommit to Your Goals
It’s now time to re-anchor ourselves to our goals. Sometimes, a disappointing situation can make us doubt our capabilities or question the viability of our goals. But by staying focused on our goals and recommitting to them, we reaffirm that we're still in the game. We must remind ourselves of our power and take the necessary steps to show up for what we want to achieve.
Taking Aligned Action
Finally, we need to take action based on our goals and the frequency we've recalibrated to, rather than being driven by the negative stories we tell ourselves. Making decisions rooted in scarcity or protection only hinders our growth and expansion. Instead, we need to trust ourselves, take risks and move forward despite the discomfort.
I encourage you to bookmark this episode for the next time you're going through any kind of challenge and need something to come back to that feels grounding and stabilising.
Remember, when times get tough, stay anchored to your vision and keep going despite the fear - I promise you’ll come out the other side stronger and more capable of growing your business than ever!
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’m heading off to Melbourne for a workshop this week so while I’m travelling, I wanted to share one of my most popular episodes from the archives. In this episode, I share my personal money story with a particular focus on how my money mindset evolved from scarcity to one of abundance and overflow.
Whether we’re conscious of it or not, we all have money stories that are shaped by our parents, our upbringing and our experiences in the world. If you feel like you are ready to upgrade the way you think about money, I hope this episode inspires you to believe that more is possible.
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Money mindset is a topic that has been coming up a lot in discussion with my clients lately so I wanted to share my personal money story with you today. Over the years I have learned so many valuable lessons and have uplevelled in ways that I never thought were possible. I can honestly say from this place of abundance and freedom, that I know this level of expansion is possible for you too.
Scarcity and Lack
Growing up, my parents were small business owners, and, as is the way with us all, their experiences shaped my earliest lessons about money. While I attribute a lot of entrepreneurial mindset to my dad in particular, I remember there being a lot of scarcity and stress around not having enough money.
Shifting Mindsets and Chasing Income Goals
As I grew older, my mindset around money gradually shifted. I set income goals for myself and worked my way up in corporate to reach my ultimate goal of $100k a year. But deep down, I didn't believe that an abundance of money was possible for someone like me.
Discovering the World of Coaching
One of the biggest money mindset shifts I experienced was when I discovered the world of coaching. Seeing other women earn money by helping others create exceptional lives inspired me so much. For me, it wasn’t about the money itself, but knowing that I could make a difference in people's lives got me hooked.
Feeling unfulfilled in my corporate job, I moved into the coaching space with the initial goal to replace my six-figure corporate income. This is when I started educating myself about money management and investing, and Chay has also played a big role in challenging my mindset in this space.
As my business grew and I earned more and more money, I had to shift my mindset to embrace abundance and learn how to hold that level of income. I’ve taken calculated risks but I also prioritise safety, aligning my financial decisions with the things that are most important to me.
I really hope this episode is of value to you. I always appreciate it when other business owners talk openly about their money stories and hope that my story inspires and empowers you to upgrade your own money mindset.
Connect with Ellie:
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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One of the key ways I’m supporting my clients to scale their masterminds this year is by creating scalable success plans. My clients love this level of bespoke support and over the last month, I’ve created 10 plans for 10 unique businesses.
Do you know what I’ve noticed? No matter how different the businesses are, the same patterns show up for most business owners. Whether they're just starting out or running multiple programs, the core challenges to scaling don't really change.
So if you’re looking to scale this year, these are my top 5 recommendations:
1. Embrace Niche and Specific Messaging
Here's the thing about messaging - most people make this way harder than it needs to be. The moment you get super specific about who you help and how you help them, everything else falls into place. And I mean everything - your content, your offers, your whole program structure.
2. Tighten Up Your Systems to Support Implementation
This is where so many business owners get stuck. A common theme coming up for my clients is that they feel time poor when it comes to creating and implementing their content creation.
My recommendation here is to create really clear systems so that it feels far more easeful. This is relevant for any area of your business where implementation is lacking.
3. Develop or Refine Your Scalable Freedom Funnel
For some clients, their success plan included recommendations around tweaking their existing funnel and for others, it was creating a brand new funnel for their launch or evergreen content.
Whatever your offers look like, when you know what your funnel looks like, you know exactly what lever you can pull to bring clients into your business consistently.
4. Realise the Power of Small Tweaks
Sometimes the biggest breakthroughs come from the smallest changes. I've watched entire programs transform just by tweaking one part of their delivery or adjusting how they onboard clients.
One of my clients made a small tweak in her funnel and got 25 replies to a particular email, which so far has converted to several people on calls with her. Don’t overlook the small details and the big impact they can make.
5. Streamline Your Offer Suite
Scaling doesn't mean adding more to your offer suite. Actually, it's the opposite. Gone are the days of creating offer after offer - that just leads to burnout. Instead, look at doubling down on your one or two offers that you can go all in on and make them the best of the best in your industry.
At the end of the day, scaling your mastermind program isn't about making everything bigger or more complicated. It's about honing in on your niche, getting really good at the basics, and letting your systems do the heavy lifting.
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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The marketing world never stands still, does it? For years, we've relied on the classic marketing funnel: awareness at the top, nurturing in the middle and conversion at the bottom. But that's evolving.
In 2025, there's a twist – the nurturing phase is becoming more significant. People are taking their time, exploring their options more thoroughly before committing. It's all about choice and being discerning about where they spend their money.
Today, I want to chat about some exciting changes coming to marketing funnels in 2025 – changes that could really impact how you connect with clients as personal brand coaches, mentors and consultants.
Adapting to the 7-11-4 Rule
You might be wondering how to adapt. Google researchers have highlighted something called the 7-11-4 rule: people need around 7 hours of engagement across 11 touchpoints in 4 different places before they're ready to trust and buy. Sounds a bit complex, but it means we should be visible in various places – think podcasts, social media and emails.
So, how do we handle this shift? I'm breaking it down with a few straightforward strategies:
1. Boost Your Credibility with Case Studies
2. Embrace Your Unique Perspective
3. Create a Sense of Urgency
With these changes, adjusting your content strategy is key. Focus on building trust, highlighting your expertise and encouraging timely decisions. It’s all about helping potential clients move through their journey with you comfortably.
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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Having the right team of people alongside you is fundamental to the success of your business. From the very beginning of Swift Ventures, I’ve been intentional and strategic about who I have supporting me, both in the business and at home now that I’m a mama.
I've been really fortunate to have a team who have been with me for a number of years - something I value very highly. As the business has evolved, the structure of my team has shifted so today I’m sharing my exact team as a 7 figure mastermind model business.
I’m a big fan of keeping my team as lean as possible and the business as automated and systemised as possible so that I can spend the majority of my time doing what I love - coaching and creating.
I’ve always run my business this way so whether you’re bringing in 50k or 150k months, you could absolutely use the same structure in your business.
Behind the Scenes
At the heart of my business is Nivek, my business manager and co-coach for the Scalable Freedom Mastermind. Nivek has been an integral part of Swift Ventures for six amazing years and has come alongside as a contractor for very intentional reasons.
A lot of people ask me why I have a contractor in such a key role and the reason is because Nivek thrives in her role as a business owner and entrepreneur. It shapes the way she thinks about my business and also the way she thinks about our client's businesses in her role of co-coach. The main factor here is that I found the right person for the role.
Another key person on the team is Tammy, our brilliant customer service manager and marketing assistant. Tammy joined us just before my maternity leave and her efficiency and dedication to handling our support inbox and virtual assistance are unparalleled, making her a pivotal member of our lean team.
Outsourcing
Beyond the core team, our operations are significantly bolstered by outsourcing to professionals like Jacqui Naunton and her design team at White Deer, who have been with us for nearly four years, bringing grace and consistency to our design needs.
We also have our accountant Diana Todd along with the bookkeeping expertise of Susannah Piek at Santosha and of course our podcast producers, Bamby Media.
Coaching
Client support is front and centre, with Niv extending her support as an incredible co-coach. We also have Tahryn, a marketing strategist and messaging maven, who adds immense value with her copywriting expertise. I am so fortunate to have this incredible longterm team that supports Swift Ventures in the most amazing way.
Late last year, I formed a strategic partnership with Jane Day from Webonize so that all my Scalable Freedom Mastermind clients gain access to her Abundant Ads Academy membership. This provides incredible value to my mastermind clients in addition to my legacy clients in the Inner Circle.
Home Front Support
On the home front, I have Lauren, my wonderful nanny who is with Sunnie two days a week plus my mum supporting one day each week. My husband Chay also has one day a week with Sunnie and although he doesn’t have a direct role in Swift Ventures, he is a key part of my advisory board, being an expert around all things leadership, strategy, marketing, and sales.
I also have my coach, Lacey, who I personally have worked with for the last six years. Lacey is not only a key advisor in the business with her incredible strategic guidance but has also been an incredible personal support and mentor to me over the years.
Having team members who've journeyed with me for the long haul is no accident. It's rooted in a leadership style where mutual respect and support are paramount. By prioritising the needs of my team—be it through financial incentives, growth opportunities, or leadership mentoring—my business fosters a nurturing environment conducive to longevity and excellence. I've always treated my team as co-collaborators where people can take ownership of parts of the business as though it’s their own.
The Lean Team Advantage
Keeping our team lean isn’t just strategic; it's about ensuring our business remains nimble. By automating processes and retaining a selective team, we maintain high profitability and focus on coaching and creating—areas I truly love. A lean team also allows us to pivot really easily, giving me the opportunity to do things like taking maternity leave like I did last year.
So, no matter where you’re at with your team right now, I hope this sneak peek into behind-the-scenes of Swift Ventures has inspired you to think about how you might like to structure your team moving forward.
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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