Episodes
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Building a robust multi-faceted business is no easy task, not even for the most seasoned entrepreneur. Creating a business that seamlessly incorporates all of your passions while providing a rewarding and fulfilling experience at the same time is the ultimate goal for many people building a business.
Dr. Kristy Sumner has successfully combined her passion for historical stories and paranormal into two businesses: Soul Sisters Paranormal, and The Historic Scott County Jail Museum.
The work that she does is totally fascinating to me, but maybe paranormal isn’t your jam and that’s okay. What stands out the most about Kristy is the way she’s created two businesses that flow so well together that allow her to live the life she finds most fulfilling.
“If you look at us, just from the outside, it looks like we have a very robust company, but it’s just the two of us.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner
Key areas we’re highlighting in this episode
Kristy’s first overnight stay in a haunted penitentiary, developing passion and excitement
Learning the technical skills it takes to produce the content they want to share
How a collaboration turned into a reopening of a historical location with paranormal research
Martin Yan, a chef and food writer says, “when you enjoy what you do, work becomes play.” For Kristy, she’s allowed herself to lean into her passions for fun, play, and discovery in the presence of her friends. She’s turned a corporate background and life as a college professor into a life that is filled with excitement. The excitement of researching historical stories and investigating paranormal activity is one aspect of it, but she’s also leaning into solving problems and learning new skills that allow her to build something meaningful.
“We wanted to start out with a bang and really show people that we are legitimate in what we're doing.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner
Mentioned in this episode:
Lizzie Borden Story
Connect with Dr. Kristy Sumner
Soul Sisters Paranormal Website
Historic Scott County Jail Website
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As business owners who want to see our business grow, we want to find ways to be innovative and set ourselves apart from the competition. Whether it’s in our messaging, our products, our processes, or our marketing, we’re constantly looking for ways to be different. Being innovative also positions us as an industry leader and as a brand that’s in touch with our customers' needs. It helps separate us from the pack when our market feels oversaturated.
“Trailblazing is pushing the idea further or taking it to a new audience.” -Sandra Scaiano
In this episode, Sandra discusses ways we can spark innovation in our business and how to find creative ways to grow.
Four ways to bring innovation to your business:
Make it normal to think creatively
Start with the components of your offer
Ask what your strengths are
Look to collaborate
“Whether it's a small tweak or a big breakthrough, now is the time to be innovating.” - Sandra Scaiano
When uncertainty strikes or there’s a need for fresh ideas, we need to ask ourselves these questions: What makes us different? What innovation can we bring to the table? This mindset sets us up for growth, towards innovation, reimagined business models, and a reinvented customer experience. Whether it's a minor tweak or a groundbreaking revelation, remember, the time to innovate is now.
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode of the Long Game, we dive deep into the world of online courses and memberships. If you're a course developer, you've likely asked “How can I make my course better?” We all want to produce content and materials that are effective and transformational. We want to provide value and help people, and this episode will give you insight on how to do just that.
“We want to make a bigger impact because of course, we want to help as many people as we can.” - Lesley Clavijo
We’re joined by Lesley Clavijo, an instructional designer who believes that teaching is more than just the transformation of information, it's about the entire learner's experience. She helps course creators elevate their programs so that their students get results so good that they can’t help but tell everyone about their results.
Three points discussed in this episode are:
What makes a course successful
Features in courses that improve the learning experience
Marketing inside your course
Lesley introduces us to her recipe for transformational courses, the "Premium Program Pie."
This pie has six essential ingredients: intentional, interactive, inclusive, intuitive, inspirational, and infinite. By incorporating these elements, your course can go beyond just being transactional. Having these ingredients will deliver better results, create more impact, and be transformative.
“Your course is never done. You're going to continuously improve your course over time.” - Lesley Clavijo
Ready to transform your course into an unforgettable journey of growth and learning? Listen to the full episode to start your transformational journey today.
Connect with Lesley Clavijo:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
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As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves wearing many hats and juggling multiple tasks and projects at the same time. Some tasks demand our attention daily, weekly or monthly, like invoicing, communication, or client work. Meanwhile, we have projects that can significantly impact our businesses, the ones we need to prioritize to grow. Yet, with our plates always full, it can be a tricky balancing act. Eventually, we get stuck in a rut, and we experience a significant setback.
Today, we talk about how we can get out of a rut and explore how we can stay inspired and motivated on our long game journey toward achieving our goals.
“Your goals can’t all happen in one day, but you do have to continually work at it.” -Sandra Scaiano
Some practical action steps shared in this episode are:
Define your why
Have a clear goal
Visualize success
Lean into your network
“Motivation comes from action, and action can be the smallest step.” -Sandra Scaiano
In entrepreneurship, maintaining motivation and constantly moving forward are needed for long-term success. Even after significant setbacks, we can choose to get back our drive. Remember, it's not just about staying busy. It's about staying inspired and always moving forward.
Now, let's reignite that spark of motivation and keep pushing forward on your journey. Your long game begins now.
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In this episode of The Long Game, we’re talking about the different ways to practice inclusive business practices with Dr. Ramona Lawrence. We’ll be talking about messaging and learning what diversity really is, how it’s a two-way process to reach it, and how we can incorporate it into our businesses.
“What is my thriving community?... How do I do things to make sure that I do things and I have practices that will help all of them to thrive?” - Dr. Ramona Lawrence
Dr. Raymona Lawrence is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Raymona H Lawrence Coaching, LLC-A Software/Systems as a Service (SAAS) Agency. Her life's work and heartfelt mission is to help individuals and organizations incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into their business strategy and systems so they can authentically connect with, recruit, and retain diverse networks of customers and team members. Dr. Lawrence is also a DEI Strategist, Speaker, Coach, and Consultant for network marketers, small business owners, and solopreneurs.
In this episode, Dr. Lawrence shares:
What diversity really means.
Her ROAR framework and how it supports business growth in diverse communities
The differences in each of our experiences
“If we've been able to respect differences in people and incorporate them into our systems, then we can create that culture of belonging and where people just feel like that they want to be there.” - Dr. Ramona Lawrence
We’ll share some of the day-to-day experiences and practices we have where we can incorporate different perspectives so that we can create systems and environments that welcome in everybody.
Connect with Dr. Ramona Lawrence:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
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In today’s digital world, there are countless ways to market yourself and your business, to the point where it can feel overwhelming and daunting. Sometimes, despite producing top-quality content, we still can’t seem to attract our ideal clients. Our guests today will help demystify the digital marketing landscape and break down the key content strategies you should be using.
“One of the best tools for communication is story.” - Martin Huntbach
Joining us today are Martin Huntbach and Lindsay Cambridge, the duo behind Jammy Digital, an award-winning SEO and content marketing agency for business owners who aren't afraid to stand out. Their bestselling book, "Content Fortress," breaks down eight content pillars that will help your business.
Here are some things we discuss in this episode:
Utilizing both long and short-form content
How repelling and attracting content will save you time and bring in your ideal clients
How culture content impacts your interaction with clients
“What's the entire journey from start to finish from awareness right through the buying cycle and beyond?” - Martin Huntbach
Martin and Lindsay also break down all we need to know about sales content. This is something that a lot of us are uncomfortable writing because we don’t want to come across as too sales-y or in-your-face, but this is more than just presenting yourself. It’s about letting your ideal clients know who you are and how you can help them. It’s about starting the customer journey even before they book a call with you or sign a contract.
Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your digital marketing game. Be sure to grab a copy of "Content Fortress" and tap into all the knowledge and strategies shared by our guests. Listen in if you’re ready to take your content strategy to the next level.
Connect with Jammy Digital:
Website
Facebook
LinkedIn
YouTube
Twitter
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In this episode of The Long Game Podcast, we delve into the essential aspects of entrepreneurship that can transform your business into a soulful and impactful journey. Today's conversation weaves into one conversation different topics including authenticity in business, core values, time management, and structuring your venture. To share her insights in this conversation, we’re joined by Kami Guildner.
Kami is not your typical entrepreneur. She’s the Founder of the Extraordinary Women Ignite Conference, Extraordinary Women Connect events, and host of the award-winning Extraordinary Women Radio™ – a podcast igniting a new paradigm of entrepreneurship with Soul+Strategy at its heart. She has a passion for bringing together a sisterhood of influential women to learn, connect, and inspire, each dedicated to raising up her voice, her vision, and her visibility to lead soulful, wildly successful businesses of impact.
“You can't outsource your leadership of thought.” - Kami Guildner
Here are some things we discuss:
Authenticity leads to the right relationships in our business
The importance of listening inside, scheduling CEO time and opening up to our wisdom and our intuition for the growth of our business
How having a balance across our mindset, body, spirit, and community affects how we show up for our business
“People fall in love with your soul, not your face.” - Kami Guildner
Kami also shares her SMART acronym: Simplification, Market, Ascending, Repeatable, Time Prosperity. These are the fundamental characteristics and foundations of a business that came out of her goal to build businesses that offer both time and wealth prosperity.
This episode is a deep dive into the soulful and strategic dimensions of entrepreneurship. Kami's insights and experiences serve as an example for those who want to run their businesses with authenticity, purpose, and prosperity. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business leader, you’ll find something in this episode that you’ll resonate deeply with.
Connect with Kami:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
YouTube
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In this episode of The Long Game, we're diving into the world of podcasting, entrepreneurship, and transparency as a business strategy. If you want to learn about building a thriving podcast, cultivating a passionate community, and achieving financial freedom, stick around because this episode is just for you.
Our guest today is the remarkable Kate Erickson, a bona fide luminary in the podcasting and entrepreneurial universe. As the co-founder of Entrepreneurs on Fire podcast and a pioneer of many successful podcasts and courses, she's here to drop some serious wisdom and actionable insights.
In this episode, we’ll be discussing:
● The benefits and opportunities that come from podcasts
● Maximizing opportunities for engagement
● Building and fostering communities
“Being an open book is not easy all of the time, but it's a core value of mine to share what I know and not hold anything back.” - Kate Erickson
This episode is full of AHA! moments, as Kate walks us through her experiences and lessons learned. She highlights the role that transparency and connection play in the modern business landscape, and we get an insider's look at how income reports and other innovative strategies aren't just about numbers—they’re about building trust and guiding your audience to their own success. Kate's story is an example of the power of staying true to your vision while nurturing genuine connections within your community.
Connect with Kate Erickson:
Website
Instagram
LinkedIn
Twitter
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The concept of the long game is sticking with it. It’s also about recognizing that you are on your unique journey. No two people have the same path. With all creative endeavors, you have the chance to show up your way, in your style.
Today we’re talking with Lizzie LaRock and we’re discussing the power of creativity. She’s the creator of The Life Feast, a one-of-a-kind program she calls a movement and a mission.
Lizzie shares how she came up with the name “Life Feast”. She explains how this phrase came to her during a particularly difficult time in her own life. We are meant to have lives of joy after all! It’s not just about working and paying bills.
How can we use creativity to live a bigger life?
One way Lizzie made space for more in life was to sign up for piano lessons; something she’d always wanted to do. She had this realization when one of her daughters wanted to stop her lessons. She realized she was sad about it because she’d always wanted to learn to play.
How can we switch from consuming to creating?
There’s nothing wrong with streaming your favorite shows or checking out Tik Tok videos. Lizzie and I talk about how we focus on creating more often and use consuming content for fun and sometimes for inspiration.
Creativity is a state, not a trait. It’s a muscle that we all have and can build upon.
Lizzie shares why using her iPhone is what works best for her when she’s creating. It’s a great reminder to use what we have and take 15 minutes to take photos when you’re inspired.
To spark creativity Lizzie shares prompts to help people see their world with a new perspective. Here’s a few examples:
Worms eye view
Shoot from the hip
Focus on a specific color (what pops up?)
Birds eye view
I love that these prompts can be integrated into part of your day. It’s not about setting aside an hour with a planned agenda. It’s about noticing what’s right in front of you and seeing it in a new way.
Lizzie explains that she encourages a growth mind-set. No one was born with a great eye, knowing exactly how to create the perfect photo. Embracing your view, your imperfections and your perspective is what makes you interesting. It is what makes your creativity unique to you.
Think play, curiosity, and sense of wonder. It’s something any of us can do as we begin to create. It allows all of us to be in flow leaving stress and perfection behind.
Lizzie also brings the science. She teaches mindfulness based in the rigorously researched, evidence-based, scientific study of positive psychology.
She calls her course a “gateway” drug. Many of her members move into other types of creative practices like painting, or writing, or acting etc. It’s a way to open up your creativity and your curiosity.
We need 3 positives for every negative in our day.
We are hard-wired to recall the negative things in life for survival purposes. Creative work helps us embrace and hold onto the positive. She explains the practice of savoring and shares several great examples that anyone can do.
Reclaim your creativity!
Connect with Lizzie:
Life Feast Info https://www.larockstarcreative.com/the-life-feast-sales-page
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lizzielarock/
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Within the first seconds of seeing your website, visitors make the decision of whether they will stay or leave, affecting whether or not they will work with you. The StoryBrand Framework is an effective way of communicating on your website and other marketing channels. It is based off of the book Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller which was later on developed into a course, then a certification.
My guest in this episode is Heather Frechette-Crowley, Founder and Principal of Root Marketing and certified StoryBrand guide.
“Your website is not about you, but for your client.” - Heather Frechette-Crowley
In this insightful discussion, we focus on the crucial elements of your website's home page. We delve into every feature, detail, and piece of information that should—and should not—be present. We explore essential components like the one-liner, header, call-to-action buttons, and more. And we will explore three key points:
● How to make your client the hero
● Using scarcity and limitations to communicate your message
● Utilizing the power of clarity
“When we try to be clever or quirky, we sacrifice clarity.” - Heather Frechette-Crowley
Yes, your website is an excellent tool to build credibility and establish yourself as an authority in your field. However, its primary purpose is to help visitors determine if they want to work with you. By crafting your website with intention and utilizing the StoryBrand Framework, you create a platform that resonates with your audience and drives meaningful connections.
Tune in to this episode to gain invaluable insights and practical tips for building a compelling website that truly speaks to your clients and fosters lasting connections.
Connect with Heather Frechette-Crowley:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Connect with Sandra:
Website
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Today’s guest is the person who introduced me to the concept of morning pages. Julia Cameron, author of The Artists Way, explains them this way:
Morning Pages are three pages of longhand, stream of consciousness writing, done first thing in the morning. *There is no wrong way to do Morning Pages*– they are not high art. They are not even “writing.” They are about anything and everything that crosses your mind– and they are for your eyes only. Morning Pages provoke, clarify, comfort, cajole, prioritize and synchronize the day at hand. Do not over-think Morning Pages: just put three pages of anything on the page...and then do three more pages tomorrow.
This is an exercise that helps you have more consciousness during your day. It’s a process to help open your creativity. It’s all about uncovering, getting unstuck.
Today’s guest, Krysty Krywko, has her own process called anchor pages. She uses art and creativity to help people heal.
First up we talk about how Krysty chose to rebrand herself and her business. She shared why she knew she needed to make the change AND admitted why it felt so hard to release the old name/brand.
“I can change my mind anytime I want to change my mind”. – Krysty
Krysty shares her anchor pages process and how she uses this in her own work. It’s working through a series of prompts.
Name it and claim the emotions you are feeling right now.
How do you want to feel?
What actions do you need to take?
She reminds us that the actions are usually small steps that allow us to make a change.
She’s using this process with creativity to help clients with sobriety and recovery. She encourages using a journal to allow for creative expression when doing this work. I know for sure that we are all recovering from something, and this process is something anyone can do.
Krysty reminds us that it’s perfectly fine to start where you are, with what you have. Use the kids crayons and markers, cut photos out of magazines. Her advice: don’t censure. Just start.
The power lies in the process.
Hear how this process is different from creating a vision board. Krysty shares how some of her clients have use this journal-creating-process to gain clarity in life. She also explains 3 of her favorite ways to get started so you aren’t working with a blank page.
Final words: Start where you are. Don’t worry about showing anyone else and remember that there are no rules. You can’t do it wrong!
Connect with Krysty
Instagram
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I’m starting a series with one of my favorite topics; online courses and memberships. There’s so much to review here, I’m breaking it up into a series so I can cover it all. I jumped into this a couple of years ago with some of my clients and I want to share what I’ve learned. We are seeing success with online learning in general and specifically, women who have launched courses are seeing success. Even those just starting are finding a place for their online offers.
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Launching a podcast and preparing your episodes for listeners is just the beginning. Once your podcast is live, there’s still post-production work and marketing so it can reach your audience. That’s what we’re discussing today with my dear friend, Susan Winkler.
Sue is the co-owner of Soma Vayu Garden, a New Jersey-based yoga and cultural wellness studio, and she’s also considering starting her own wellness podcast. She had a bunch of really good, insightful, questions for me that I’m sure every entrepreneur looking to start a podcast wants to know the answers to.
Here are the three key lessons from this episode:
Repurposing your podcast content to reach a wider audience on different platforms.
Leveraging tools and technology to streamline your podcasting process.
Identifying practical and authentic ways to market your podcast effectively.
“The more true you are to yourself and to bringing your content forward, the more that audience is going to find you.” -Sandra Scaiano
You don't have to implement every marketing strategy available. Instead, focus on understanding the various strategies so you can identify the ones that resonate with you and will be most effective in reaching your target audience. Find your unique approach and let your authentic content shine.
Connect with Sue Winkler:
Soma Vayu Garden
LinkedIn
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I’ve been doing this podcast for three years now, and in that time, I’ve learned some tricks of the trade and noticed some trends. Podcasts remain a powerful content vehicle for sharing your voice, viewpoints, and connecting with your audience. When my good friend Susan Winkler asked me, "What do you need to know to start a podcast?" I invited her to join me in this two-part series where she interviews me and asks all her burning questions as a total podcast newbie.
Sue, co-owner of Soma Vayu Garden, a New Jersey-based yoga and cultural wellness studio, is considering starting her own podcast. Today we dive into the technical and production aspects of podcasting.
In this episode, I talk about the equipment you’ll need, like microphones, recording software, and lights, and also about the music, intros and outros, editing, and hosting. I’ll guide you through the entire process from planning to having your episode ready for your audience to hear.
If you're considering starting your own podcast, I’ll address all the questions you've asked and even those you didn't know to ask. Should I start a podcast? Is it worth it to have a podcast? Would I have the time and resources to sustain the podcast? What equipment do I need? Where do I even start?
“You can start one way and move yourself up another way.” -Sandra Scaiano
Podcasting is a personal journey, and your experience will be unique to you. The decisions you make as you go along will depend on your specific situation, goals, and available resources. This episode will help you identify the key factors influencing those decisions and help you start your own podcasting adventure.
Be sure to stay tuned for the next episode, where we'll delve into post-production and marketing strategies for your podcast.
Connect with Sue Winkler:
Soma Vayu Garden
LinkedIn
Relevant Links:
Audacity
Riverside
Shure MV7 Microphone
Sound Box
Lume Cube Table Top light
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In this episode, we delve into the world of summits and what it takes to run a successful one. Summits offer entrepreneurs valuable networking opportunities, industry training, and a platform to market themselves and grow their audience. But behind the scenes, there are countless moving parts that contribute to a summit's success. Join us as we uncover the secrets to hosting a remarkable summit.
“Summits are a lot of work. Do it wrong and you’ll learn how much work it is.” - Larissa Russell
Our guests today are Larissa Russell and Malva Gasowski, the founders of Spectacular Summits, a company dedicated to hosting impactful summits and assisting clients in organizing their own. Larissa, known as the Summit Queen, is an entrepreneur, international bestselling author, speaker, artist, coach, and healer. With her extensive experience running summits for herself and other experts, Larissa brings unparalleled expertise to the table. Malva, an instructional designer, business trainer, summit creator, executive coach, and international bestselling author, is also a key figure in the summit space.
Together, they also host the Elevate Your Kajabi Business Summit, a premier event that focuses on delivering proven advanced strategies and tactics for scaling Kajabi businesses and achieving long-term success.
Throughout this episode we address key questions, including:
What value do summits bring to entrepreneurs and their businesses?
Is hosting or participating in a summit a worthwhile investment for your business?
Should you speak at a summit?
“As a summit speaker, I’m collaborating with someone else.” - Malva Gasowski
Dispelling a common perspective that the other speakers and participants and summits are “competitors,” the ladies remind us that we’re collaborating rather than competing with one another. When professionals from the same industry come together, we bring our expertise, knowledge, and connections to the table. By embracing collaboration, we can collectively grow and support each other's success.
Tune in to this episode to gain insights from Larissa and Malva on how to create and leverage summits for maximum impact.
Connect with Larissa Russell:
Website
LinkedIn
Connect with Malva Gasowski:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Connect with Spectacular Summits:
Website
LinkedIn
Elevate Your Kajabi Business Summit
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There are times when we doubt whether or not something is possible. Whether it’s a big goal, a trip we dreamed of, a little “what if?” thought. In this episode, we’re talking about if that thing we want to do is possible (spoiler alert: it is!), and the amazing things that happen when we let go of our control a little bit. And who better to talk about this than today’s guest, Lisa Corrado.
Lisa is a coach and champion for small business owners & entrepreneurs. She’s a cancer survivor and wildly enthusiastic traveler who is right now (as of the release of this episode) walking the entire 500+ miles of the Camino de Santiago in Northern Spain.
“Sometimes it’s easy, and sometimes it’s hard. But it all gets done.” - Lisa Corrado
Lisa shares how her trip’s been so far, meeting different people, the miles of nature, historical sites, culture, and all the food. But how did she prepare for this two-month trip, and how does she manage to do it all while staying connected, running her business, and servicing her clients?
Here's a few of the lessons Lisa learned:
When you decide to do something, things will align and fall into place for what you want to happen.
When you loosen your hold and let go of the idea that things have to happen your way, you open up a different path that would have been better and easier than anything you could have planned for.
Open yourself up to meeting people and experiences that will restore your faith in humanity.
“In my business, when I loosen my grip and don’t hold things too tightly, it grows faster than it did before.” - Lisa Corrado
This trip was something that Lisa decided to do, and she did what she could to make it happen, then the rest fell into place. She’s someone who reinforces the lessons she’s learned and exemplifies the things she teaches. This is part of the reason why her clients trust her so much. Listen to this full episode to learn more from her.
Connect with Lisa Corrado:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
LinkedIn
Breakthrough Retreat
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When we first start our own business, we have big dreams and grand plans, but we don’t really know if it will take off. Today we hear the inspiring story of Kelly Aaron, who shows us that with perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to building relationships, success is within reach.
“Our biggest limit is self-imposed.” - Kelly Aaron
Kelly opened her first business over 20 years ago. Fueled by her passion for modern design and art, she curated museum exhibitions and facilitated the sale of rare pieces through esteemed auction houses. In 2016, Kelly founded Blueprint Lighting, a company that has since earned a reputation for crafting exquisite, modern fixtures.
Blueprint Lighting started from a lightbulb moment with a dismantled light fixture in a garage. From this spark of creativity, the company embarked on a transformative journey that led to its present-day prominence. Here are 3 things you can learn from Kelly’s story.
You can just start and figure it out as you go.
Prioritize exceptional care for your clients.
Actively cultivate meaningful relationships.
“You have to be willing to go, I’m not fully in control of this, but even if I get the least out of it, I’m okay with that.” - Kelly Aaron
Kelly sheds light on the importance of planting seeds in our business and patiently nurturing their growth. We may not have control over how or when these seeds will flourish, or which opportunities will materialize, but we need to continue planting them. Because we never know what will come out of a favor we grant, or valuable offering we give, or an email we send. Who knows? That rush order over Thanksgiving might lead to one of your biggest clients.
Connect with Kelly Aaron:
Instagram
Contact Blueprint Lighting:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest
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In this episode, we're exploring the tools used by one of the biggest theme parks, Universal Studios. By studying their systems and processes, we can learn how to use the same tools in our own businesses and play the long game like a pro.
Here are some of the things Universal Studies does right to make sure their park is a success and guests enjoy every step of their experience:
Plan - Before any construction took place, not only did they plan the park layout, but they also considered where the guests would line up for rides, and where they’d get in and out. Before each ride, as the guest gets closer, they placed different elements to build anticipation and expectations. As they exit the ride, they made the guests exit through a gift shop, enticing them to make more purchases.
Leverage automation - Many of the rides are automated and timed perfectly so that while the guests are waiting, their anticipation and excitement increases. They also use biometrics for ticketing. Not only does this prevent ticket sharing, but the guests go through the lines much faster and smoother.
Be creative and innovative - There are many gift shops around Universal, and yes, they have the standard collectibles and fun items for each franchise, but they also sell high quality, useful items, like backpacks. They had a limited-edition Marge Simpson backpack made with Hershel, and I bought this not only because of the brand, but also because I was able to use it while we were going around the park.
“It’s good to notice the processes that the big guys utilize, and to know that you have the power to incorporate the same successful concepts into your own business.” -Sandra Scaiano
By studying the proven methods of Universal Studios, you can unlock a treasure trove of insights and strategies that you can apply to your own business. From streamlining your processes to leveraging innovative technology, there's a lot to learn from these successful companies. Don't be intimidated by their size or resources; instead, use them as inspiration to take your own game to the next level. Remember, playing the long game is about consistent growth and improvement, and by adding these tools to your toolbox, you're setting yourself up for success.
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Branding is one of the most important factors in your business. It’s more than just a set of pretty colors and fancy fonts. It’s what sets you apart, how your audience can identify you, and the expectations you set about what you do and who you are. It is the first level of communication you have with your audience.
“Branding requires a wide range of skills, including graphic design know-how, copywriting, and an understanding of marketing strategies.” - Sandra Scaiano
With all the intricacies and layers that go into branding, here are three mistakes you might be making:
DIY colors and logos
Font choice and low readability
Using stock photos
I’m not a DIY hater. I understand that sometimes DIY might be necessary, especially for those who are just starting out and on a tight budget. But when you do things yourself, you may miss little details that the pros take into consideration when helping you build your brand, such as readability and how the design looks across platforms.
“It’s easy to struggle when you go the DIY route, and it’s hard to create a brand that communicates your values and resonates with your target audience.” -Sandra Scaiano
Today I dive deep into this topic and also share how you can avoid these mistakes. With a little research and a little help, you can curate an online image that really showcases your brand and who you are.
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There’s a common belief that in order to build your Instagram following, create a viral post, or develop your community, Instagram would have to be treated as a second job, almost. You may think you have to spend hours and hours to craft that perfect post and connect with people. But how true (or false) is this claim? That’s what we’re taking a deep dive into today.
“For every business, you need people behind it to talk about and endorse it and tell their friends about it in order to scale and grow… It’s the power of the people that amplify opportunity.” - Sue B. Zimmerman
Who better to guide us through the Instagram landscape than Sue B. Zimmerman? Sue teaches small business owners how to become the go-to authority in their industry by using Instagram marketing strategies to establish and grow an engaged following that converts. She’s built my career empowering entrepreneurs and marketing professionals to utilize the power of Instagram to get tangible business results.
Here are three common questions about Instagram that Sue guides us through:
How we’re supposed to keep up with all the changes
What makes an effective Instagram post?
How do we present ourselves on Instagram?
“At the end of the day, the most important thing in a business is relevant content. And if you’re not speaking to your audience with the content they want to see, hear, laugh to, look at, save, all of that, growth is hard, and building community is even harder.” - Sue B. Zimmerman
More than the understanding of Instagram as a platform and getting into the nitty gritty of effective posts, Sue reminds us that at the end of the day, it’s is a free tool. Yes, we need to define our brand and develop our processes, but having those will significantly decrease the time we spend on the platform and will improve the way we can create connections.
Sue kindly offered my listeners a free downloadable in-depth Instagram guide. All you have to do is go to her latest Instagram post, comment your questions and thoughts about this episode if you have one, and ask for the download.
Connect with Sue B. Zimmerman:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
Twitter
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