Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Business-First Creatives: Client Experience & Systems for Service Providers
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Built a Custom Client Portal in 7 Days (And Deleted Half My Tech Stack) | 07 Aug 2026 | 00:21:37 | |
I recorded this one live on the last day of week two of my birthday sabbatical, and it published about ten minutes after I stopped talking. Because I spent the last seven days — on roughly four hours of sleep a night — building a custom client portal that replaced Airtable, Fillout, Notion, Google Docs, and Google Sheets in my business. What started as "let me move my AI assistants out of ChatGPT" turned into a full app where my clients log in, map their client journey, draft their emails, submit support tickets, send me voice notes, and do their weekly check-ins. I had a fully deployed version in 12 hours after telling myself since February that I needed time to plan it. I also knocked South Dakota off my list (47 states down, 3 to go), and I get into the irony of doing the exact thing I tell y'all not to do with your own systems. Demo and debrief coming to the blog soon. Get on the list so you don't miss it: coliejames.com/subscribe Work with me: Systems in Session | The Experience Edit | |||
| How to Use Human Design for Better Business Storytelling with Breanna Owen | 06 Aug 2026 | 00:41:01 | |
Have you ever wondered why some stories feel effortless to tell while others never seem to land? In this episode, I'm sitting down with Breanna Owen to explore how Human Design can completely change the way we approach storytelling in our businesses. Instead of trying to tell every story or following someone else's content formula, we're diving into how your Human Design can help you identify the stories you're naturally meant to tell—and why those stories create stronger connections with your audience. Mentioned in this Episode Episode 254: Using Human Design to Transform Your Business Strategy with Breanna Owen Episode 216: Energetic Email Strategy for Connection & Conversion with Breanna Owen Episode 277: How Human Design Is Influencing the Way We Do Business with Sabrina Gebhardt Episode 299: Done-for-You vs. Done-with-You: Which Model Fits Your Business? with Brittany Herzberg Connect with Breanna Website: owenyourmark.com Grab the Email Type Freebie: owenyourmark.com/energy-type-email-playbook Instagram: instagram.com/owenyourmark | |||
| The Power of Collaboration: Creating Better Offers with Caitie Cupples | 02 Jul 2026 | 00:37:48 | |
What if your next great offer isn't something you build alone? In this episode, I sit down with website copywriter Caitie Cupples to explore the power of collaboration and how partnering with complementary experts can create a better client experience—and a stronger offer. Caitie shares the story behind Signed, Sealed, Subscribed, a collaborative VIP Week she built alongside a designer and a naming expert to help business owners finally launch newsletters they're excited to send. We unpack what it looks like to stay in your zone of genius, eliminate client roadblocks, and create offers that solve the entire problem instead of just one piece of it. If you've ever wondered whether collaboration could help you create a stronger offer, this conversation might be the inspiration you need to get started! Find It Quickly: 00:25 - Meet Caitie Cupples 02:57 - Signed, Sealed, Subscribed 04:35 - What’s Included 06:01 - How It Started 07:19 - Words vs Design Reality 10:51 - Onboarding and Tools 12:49 - Deliverables Breakdown 15:44 - Welcome Email Strategy 17:48 - Platform Choices 18:28 - Choosing a Newsletter Tool 19:17 - Newsletter as the Offer 20:45 - HoneyBook vs Dubsado 22:35 - VIP Week Workflow 25:03 - Launch Lessons Learned 28:19 - Waitlist Setup and Fairness 29:42 - Picking Collaborators Wisely 33:50 - Contracts and Collaboration Mentioned in this Episode: Collaboration Partner: stacyeaguilar.com Connect with the Guest: Website: caitiecupplescreative.com Instagram: instagram.com/caitiecupplescreative Threads: threads.com/@caitiecupplescreative | |||
| Improve Client Trust & Increase Conversions through Asynchronous Video with Carolyn Leasure | 28 Aug 2025 | 00:38:35 | |
I’ve been shouting from the rooftops about using video in your client experience—and today, I’ve got backup. In this episode, I’m joined by Carolyn Leasure, a website evolution expert who turns scrappy Squarespace sites into smooth, branded systems. We’re diving into the magic of asynchronous video and how it can transform the way you connect with leads and clients. Carolyn shares how she first implemented asynchronous video for a client and the three powerhouse ways she uses it in her own business: dynamic FAQs, interactive sales pages, and streamlined testimonial collection. We also talk about buyer behavior, zero-party data, and why personalization it the most impactful asset. Find It Quickly 00:27 - Meet Carolyn 01:30 - The Power of Asynchronous Video 04:24 - Implementing Asynchronous Video in Business 06:59 - Dynamic FAQ Pages: Enhancing User Experience 15:40 - Dynamic Sales Pages: Personalizing the Sales Journey 20:11 - The Value of Client Feedback 21:36 - The Power of Customer Testimonials 23:20 - Collecting and Utilizing Testimonials 26:13 - Leveraging Video for Client Interaction 31:14 - Asynchronous Communication Benefits Resources Mentioned Connect with Carolyn Website: maypopcreativestudio.com | |||
| The Taylor & Travis Engagement Test for Your Client Experience | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:10:03 | |
When Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement, the internet went wild. But instead of just scrolling through memes, I started thinking about the photographer who actually booked that session — and more importantly, what would have happened if that inquiry landed in your inbox. Here’s the hard truth: if your systems aren’t set up to respond quickly, guide people clearly, and book smoothly, you could miss out on dream clients, celebrity or not. In this episode, I’m walking you through the “Taylor & Travis Engagement Test” — a playful but real way to measure whether your inquiry-to-booking systems are ready. Why your inquiry response system matters more than you think How to prevent dream clients from slipping through the cracks Why a smooth, consistent booking process builds trust and referrals How Systems in Session helps you create a client experience that actually works Ready to work on your client experience? Explore Systems in Session: https://coliejames.com/systems-in-session Listen to the Client Experience Series on Business-First Creatives Podcast: https://coliejames.com/tag/client-experience-series/ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/coliejames Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzOBVgYN-2lx0bMaDF7d0kByxGSjRq5Mg | |||
| Creating Accountability in Airtable with Melissa Arlena | 21 Aug 2025 | 00:30:15 | |
If you’re not tracking it, you’re winging it. That's why it's important to have a system in place to help keep you accountable. In this episode, Melissa Arlena joins us to discuss the power of airtable and accountability. Listen in as we discuss systematizing recurring revenue and keeping clients from slipping through the cracks. Whether you’re running a course, a coaching program, or a service-based business—this episode unpacks the real reasons you need better systems (and how Airtable can be your operations BFF). Find It Quickly 00:27 - Welcoming Back Melissa Arlena 01:20 - Diving into Airtable 01:52 - Client Hub & Airtable 04:14 - Website and Offer Refinement 05:39 - Airtable for Blogging Club and Recurring Income 06:40 - Automations and Payment Tracking 13:16 - Email Automations and Client Check-ins 16:05 - The Importance of Client Accountability 16:43 - Challenges of Time Zones in Coaching Programs 17:23 - Maximizing Group Coaching Calls 18:48 - Using Airtable for Client Experience Audits 19:47 - Automating Client Follow-Ups with Airtable 20:10 - Organizing Content and Client Data with Airtable 22:48 - Airtable for Photographers: Tracking Client Interactions 25:03 - Leveraging Airtable for Business Insights Resources Mentioned Episode 80: SEO Best Practices for Photographers | Simple SEO Series with Melissa Arlena (Part 2) Connect with Melissa Website: pictureperfectrankings.com Podcast: pictureperfectrankings.com/photography-podcast Free FB Group: facebook.com/groups/pictureperfectrankings Instagram: instagram.com/pictureperfectrankings | |||
| Growing Your Email List at In-Person Events with Tiffany Crenshaw | 14 Aug 2025 | 00:39:56 | |
What if your next five clients aren’t on Instagram, but actually sitting across from you at an in-person event? Tiffany Crenshaw is a former teacher turned photographer turned educator, and she’s sharing her unconventional but highly effective strategies for growing your email list in person. We’re talking QR codes at mom events, blog post reuse, and making real-world connections convert to real income. Tiffany's QR code strategy is featured in my complete guide to getting photography clients: https://coliejames.com/how-to-get-photography-clients/ Find It Quickly 00:28 - Meet Tiffany Crenshaw 01:36 - The Importance of Email Marketing 05:45 - Growing Your Email List at In-Person Events 08:52 - Creating Effective QR Codes for Email Sign-Ups 17:42 - Analyzing Email Marketing Success 20:39 - Personal Follow-Up Strategies 21:13 - Importance of Email Open Rates 21:52 - Power of In-Person Connections 24:16 - Email Marketing Frequency 24:49 - Creating Engaging Email Content 27:33 - Educational Content in Emails 31:56 - Leveraging Blog Posts for Client Engagement 35:08 - Planning In-Person Events Mentioned in this Episode Connect with Tiffany Website: animalhouse-photography.com Education: animalhouse-photography.com/for-photographers Instagram: instagram.com/animalhousephotography | |||
| Back to School, Back to Boundaries: Protecting Your Time This Season | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:11:22 | |
The first day of school hits different when your kid starts high school — and when you realize you don’t have to pack a lunch, drive carpool, or even set an alarm. In this episode, I’m sharing a personal peek into what this season looks like for me, how my work rhythm has evolved over the years, and why I’m fiercely protecting space on my calendar instead of filling it the minute more “free time” appears. If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll get so much more done once the kids are in school,” this one’s your gentle nudge to pace yourself. | |||
| Energetics in Business with Sabrina Gebhardt | 07 Aug 2025 | 00:38:27 | |
I almost made a catastrophic business move by shutting everything down. Thankfully, a conversation with my business bestie Sabrina helped me take a step back to assess. What started as a low-energy confession turned into a revelation about patience, energetics, and realigning offers with what lights me up, so we decided to bring it to the podcast. Find It Quickly 03:05 - Discussing Business Challenges 04:40 - Advice on Business Decisions 08:17 - Turning Points and Positive Changes 14:39 - Reevaluating Business Strategies Mentioned in this Episode Episode 152: Q3 Business Bestie Chat with Colie James Connect with Sabrina | |||
| The Month I Turned 46 and Showed TF Up in My Business | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:23:07 | |
Let me just say it—July was fucking awesome. After a season of mostly behind-the-scenes content creation (and zero solo podcast episodes for all of 2024), I came back in a big way. Inside this July Roundup episode, I’m taking you behind the curtain of the best month I’ve had in business since 2023. I’m walking through what worked, what I retired just as fast as I launched it, and how I’m thinking about client experience, visibility, and high-touch offers for the rest of 2025. If you’ve ever needed permission to build in public, pivot mid-launch, or shut something down that was a good idea but isn’t your forever offer—this one’s for you. Questions answered in this episode ✨ Where did Workflow Fast Pass go? ✨ What is Systems in Session and do you need it? ✨ How am I reframing the client experience conversation? ✨ Who am I excited to work with next? ✨ When is Systems in Session opening back up? Email Like You Mean It Sales Page Maddie Peschong Episodes #1 #2 #3 | |||
| Beyond DIY ChatGPT: The Human-First AI Blogging Tool for Intentional Creatives | 31 Jul 2025 | 00:42:14 | |
If you’ve ever opened ChatGPT, typed “write my blog post,” and cringed at the results—you’re not alone. This episode dives into what it really takes to build an AI tool that doesn’t sound like a robot. Join me as I welcome back my friend Annemie Tonken from This Can't Be That Hard to talk about her deep dive into AI tools—yes, the same woman who once called blogging “too time-consuming” is now building AI-powered systems to help photographers blog better and faster. We go behind the scenes of her new blogging tool, how it’s changing the game inside her Consistency Club, and why “just being good at ChatGPT” isn’t enough. Find It Quickly 00:56 - Diving into AI Tools 04:34 - The Challenges and Potential of AI in Blogging 14:04 - Introducing Consistency Club 22:41 - Voice Notes for Storytelling 23:08 -The Role of AI in Content Creation 23:35 - Quality Over Quantity in Blogging 26:17 - Introducing Consistency Club's New Too 27:04 - Customizing and Finalizing Your Blog Post 35:36 - The Future of AI and Human Collaboration Resources Mentioned How Automated Processes Can Help Strengthen Client Relationships with Annemie Tonken Expanding into Education with Annemie Tonken The 4 Buyer Types and How to Sell to Each One with Courtney Fanning Building Your Content Strategy with the Marketing Jar with Dayna Schaaf Connect with Annemie Annemie’s Podcast Annemie’s Website Annemie’s Instagram | |||
| How I’m Building My Offer Ecosystem Around the 3 Levers That Drive Client Experience | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:11:55 | |
You don’t need to fix everything at once — but you do need to fix the thing that’s slowing you down. In this episode, I’m walking you through the 3 essentials every creative business needs in their client experience and the 3 paths you can take to improve your systems based on your budget, time, and capacity. Whether you’re ready to send better emails, book clients faster, or overhaul your entire process — this is how we find the right next step for you. Links Mentioned If you’re ready to improve your client experience but not sure where to start, head to coliejames.com/systems and listen to Fix It First — my private podcast that helps you figure out exactly what needs fixing first inside your client experience systems. Want my eyes on your actual process? You can book a full Client Experience Audit at coliejames.com/audit. If your proposal is the weak link, grab the five-minute booking Proposal Template at coliejames.com/dubsado-proposal-templates. For those of you struggling with what to say and when, grab my free email writing guide Emails That Convert at coliejames.com/emails. Or dive deeper with the full course, Email Like You Mean It, at coliejames.com/email. And if you're ready to build your client experience systems from start to finish, you can either DIY with the CRM Blueprint at coliejames.com/crm-blueprint or join me for a more supported experience inside Systems in Session at coliejames.com/systems-in-session. | |||
| I'm celebrating TWO milestones today | 28 Jul 2025 | 00:08:04 | |
I am popping in with a short solo today. If you have a moment, and want to give me a birthday present, leave a review for this podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts ❤️ | |||
| Email Like You Mean It Is Dead. Here's What's Replacing It. | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:08:12 | |
Email Like You Mean It is no more, y'all. I rebranded it — again — and this time I actually love the name I landed on: The Experience Edit. In this episode, I'm walking you through why I made the change, what's different now that it's gone from a 5-day sprint to a full 10 days, and why I finally split it into two clear goals: mapping your client journey in week one, then writing your entire client communication library in week two. I also touch on why workflows still aren't part of this offer (on purpose), and what to expect if you join me live July 13–24. Plus — I'm kicking off the July Sales Parade with Ceels Lockley today, and I'll be one of the guest DJs later this quarter talking Systems That Sell. Details on that below too. Links mentioned:
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| Accessibility Awareness with Erin Perkins | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:38:50 | |
Accessibility isn't sexy—but it's essential. Erin Perkins of Mabely Q joins us to talk about something most business owners haven't truly considered: accessibility in the client experience. Erin is a powerful advocate and educator who teaches entrepreneurs how to make their businesses more inclusive without overhauling everything at once. From websites to emails to podcasts, we unpack practical, doable ways to start making your content and services more accessible today. Erin’s success framework will help you identify one area to focus on and give you a clear, manageable path forward. Find It Quickly 00:28 - Meet Erin 02:08 - Starting with Accessibility: Where to Begin 04:09 - Tools for Website Accessibility 10:31 - The Importance of Alt Text and SEO 17:34 -Email Marketing and Accessibility 20:32 - Email Formatting Tips for Better Readability 21:06 - Importance of Mobile-Friendly Emails 23:07 - Accessibility Features on iPhone 24:22 - Avoiding Overlays on Websites 24:55 -Making Podcasts and Videos Accessible 25:48 - Editing AI Transcripts for Accuracy 27:36 - Sharing Transcripts with Your Audience 28:25 - Best Practices for Podcast Transcripts 31:20 -Integrating Accessibility into Your Workflow Mentioned in this Episode Connect with Erin | |||
| Ping Pong Offers... I swear I have an actual plan for my business | 20 Jul 2025 | 00:08:28 | |
I thought I’d nailed my warm-up offer. Sales page created in less than 3 hours. Sold a few during my Sales Parade. Two weeks later? I pulled it. In this episode, I’m sharing why I retired a brand new offer, what’s staying in my ecosystem, and how I’m realigning everything around the 3 essentials of a client experience that actually converts. Rethinking your entry offer too? This pivot might be exactly what you need to hear. LINKS MENTIONED: → Book a Client Experience Audit: https://coliejames.com/audit → Grab the Proposal Template: https://coliejames.com/proposal-template Launch Your Own Way from Kelsey McCormick of Coming Up Roses Sales Parade with Ceels Lockley (aff link) Creating an Irresistible Warm-Up Offer - Sold Out Offers Podcast with Ceels Lockley You're Entry Level Offer Isn't Just Cute - It's Crucial - Lazy Business Podcast with Emylee Williams and Jess Eley | |||
| How to Start Running Meta Ads for Just $1 a Day (and Actually Get Results) with Jana Bishop | 17 Jul 2025 | 00:46:56 | |
Ready to finally hit publish on that Facebook ad you've been scared to run? Facebook Ad strategist Jana Bishop joins us to make paid ads feel accessible. We explore how creatives and online business owners can start testing ads for just $1 a day, why warm audiences should be your first target, and how to know if your offer is ready for paid promotion. Find It Quickly 00:28 - Meet Jana Bishop 01:31 - Jana's Journey into Ads 03:54 - The Power of Ads and Organic Marketing 07:54 - Getting Started with Ads: Tips and Strategies 14:30 - Understanding Audiences: Cold vs. Warm 21:24 - Crafting Effective Ad Copy for Different Audiences 24:15 - The Importance of Testing in Ad Campaigns 25:45 - Understanding the Importance of Creative and Copy in Ads 26:12 - Setting Up and Testing Traffic Campaigns 27:13 - Analyzing Ad Performance and Metrics 28:17 - Clarifying Traffic vs. Sales Campaigns 30:56 - The Role of Organic Sales in Ad Success 33:10 - Ads for High-Ticket vs. Low-Ticket Offers 36:22 - The Power of Retargeting and Email Marketing Mentioned in this Episode Connect with Jana | |||
| The 3 Red Flags Hiding in Your Inquiry Response Email | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:13:47 | |
Are your inquiry emails turning off your best leads? 😬 In this episode of Business-First Creatives, I’m breaking down the three email red flags I see over and over again in client inbox audits — and showing you exactly how to fix them. Whether you’re leading with pricing too soon, asking for homework too early, or leaving people hanging without a clear next step — this episode will help you rewrite that first impression. 👩🏽💻 Need a hand in updating your inquiry + booking client communication? Join me April 6-10 for my 5-day done-with-you client communication sprint, Email Like You Mean It. You'll walk away with your complete customer journey mapped and every email written to guide it. Learn more at coliejames.com/email Find It Quickly:00:00 — This one email might be doing more harm than good 01:10 — The pricing mistake that makes you sound like a spreadsheet 02:45 — Two ways to share your rates without scaring people off 04:58 — Are you asking too much, too soon? 06:00 — What belongs on your contact form (not in your email) 07:25 — Stop asking for permission — do this instead 08:35 — What your inquiry email should actually say 10:40 — How to lead with confidence (even in automation) 11:40 — Want more booked clients? Start here. Links Mentioned:🔗 Email Like You Mean It : https://coliejames.com/email 🎙 Listen to the podcast: https://coliejames.com/podcast 📸 Follow on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@coliejames | |||
| How the Enneagram Can Supercharge Your Self-Awareness with Ashton Whitmoyer-Ober | 10 Jul 2025 | 00:41:31 | |
If you've ever wondered why you do what you do, the Enneagram might just hold the answers. In this episode, Ashton Whitmoyer-Ober of Enneagram Ashton joins us to talk about how this ancient typing system can transform your business, relationships, and self-awareness. Ashton breaks down how to go beyond the test results by understanding motivation, wings, and behavioral patterns, allowing for authentic transformation in business and life. Explore the Enneagram Types Type 1: The Reformer - The Rational, Idealistic Type Type 2: The Helper - The Caring, Interpersonal Type Type 3: The Achiever - The Success-Oriented, Pragmatic Type Type 4: The Individualist - The Sensitive, Withdrawn Type Type 5: The Investigator - The Intense, Cerebral Type Type 6: The Loyalist - The Committed, Security-Oriented Type Type 7: The Enthusiast - The Busy, Fun-Loving Type Type 8: The Challenger - The Powerful, Dominating Type Type 9: The Peacemaker - The Easygoing, Self-Effacing Type Find It Quickly 01:29 - Meet Enneagram Ashton 02:10 - Ashton's Background and Transition 04:12 - Understanding the Enneagram 06:30 - Personal Experiences with the Enneagram 11:39 - The Role of Tests in Enneagram Typing 17:20 - Healthy vs. Unhealthy Levels 26:47 - Using the Enneagram in Relationships Mentioned in this Episode Ashton’s Instagram: @enneagramashton Ashton’s Website: enneagramashton.com RHETI Enneagram Test: enneagraminstitute.com/rheti Truity Enneagram Test: truity.com/test/enneagram-personality-test | |||
| 3 Bottlenecks That Burn Photographers Out Every Fall (and How to Fix them) | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:16:01 | |
Fall family photography season is almost here, and if you're already bracing for the wave of inquiries, back-to-back sessions, and late-night editing marathons — this episode is your survival guide. I’m walking you through the three biggest bottlenecks that leave photographers overwhelmed every single fall… and exactly how to fix them before you hit burnout. This one’s short and actionable, and yes — I’m absolutely inviting you to stop being the bottleneck in your own business. Find it quickly: 00:00 — Why this episode is your fall prep wake-up call 01:18 — Bottleneck #1: Editing will eat you alive (human vs. AI) 05:22 — Bottleneck #2: You still don’t have a 5-minute booking process 08:21 — Bottleneck #3: You’re still sending every client email yourself 10:24 — Why automation still needs personality 11:14 — What the Workflow Fast Pass is (and why I built it) 13:54 — Let this fall season feel different 👇 LINKS MENTIONED: 🔗 Workflow Fast Pass (Only 10 beta spots available): https://coliejames.com/automation 🔗 Client Experience Freebie: https://coliejames.com/workflows 🔗 More from me: https://coliejames.com 🎙 Listen to the podcast: https://coliejames.com/podcast 📸 Follow on Threads: https://www.threads.com/@coliejames | |||
| Embracing Creativity as a Neurodivergent Business Owner with Molly McCauley | 03 Jul 2025 | 00:50:02 | |
What if your brain’s unique wiring isn’t a flaw… but your secret advantage? That’s exactly what we explore in my conversation with Molly McCauley. Molly’s neurodivergent diagnosis became the lens through which she redesigned her business, team, and teaching. Growing up in a family of educators and artists, she used art and design to navigate a traditional education system that didn’t always support her learning needs. That same creativity eventually turned into a thriving photography and education business. Listen in as we discuss what it really looks like to build a successful business as a neurodivergent entrepreneur. Find It Quickly 00:28 - Meet Molly McCauley 00:58 - Molly's Journey into Photography 05:28 - The Stigma of Creative Businesses 06:41 - Molly's Talk at Creative Educator Conference 07:32 - Understanding Neurodivergence in Business 09:28 - Reflections on Teaching and Learning 17:16 - Molly's Business Systems and Outsourcing 25:14 - The Importance of Outsourcing 27:02 - Finding the Right Virtual Assistant 29:29 - Challenges in Early Business Years 31:57 - Embracing Systems and Specialists 36:39 - The Evolution of Make Pretty Workshops 44:19 - The Value of Styled Shoots and Workshops Mentioned in this Episode Episode 25: Sarah Potts: BTS of Hiring My VA Connect with Molly instagram.com/mollymccauley_photo | |||
| Behind the Scenes: My Mid-Year Offer Reset | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:12:17 | |
It’s my birthday month, and I’m celebrating by simplifying my backend and shifting how I sell. In this solo episode, I’m walking you through why I removed my standalone email and workflow templates from the System Shop—and what I’m replacing them with. From retiring offers to introducing semi-custom workflow templates (built with a little help from my AI tools), I’m sharing the strategy behind these changes and how they better support my clients and my business. If you’ve ever wondered what to do with an offer that still sells but no longer aligns, this one’s for you. 🎧 What You’ll Learn: Why I sunset my standalone templates What the new semi-custom workflow experience includes How Email Like You Mean It reshaped my offers What’s staying in the System Shop—and what’s on the chopping block Why this shift creates better results for both sides of the sale 🔗 Links & Resources: → Email Like You Mean It: coliejames.com/email → Semi-Custom Workflow Templates: coliejames.com/automation → Explore All Tools + Templates: coliejames.com/shop | |||
| Ditching the Algorithm: Shifting the Priority from Social Media to Email Marketing with Andréa Jones | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:44:25 | |
Do you find yourself dreading content creation and waiting for the algorithm to feature your posts? In this episode, I sat down with Andréa Jones, mindful marketing strategist extraordinaire, to talk about why email might need to become your primary marketing channel. No more chasing social media algorithms: we're building connection, conversions, and clarity in the inbox. Find it Quickly: 00:56 - Shifting from Social Media to Email Marketing 03:05 - The Challenges of Social Media 06:53 - The Power of Email Marketing 17:03 - Embracing AI in Marketing 24:09 - The Writing Process: Talk First, Write Second 24:35 - Using AI for Email Summarization 24:55 - Storytelling in Emails 25:37 - Stories and Email Writing 27:21 - AI for Organization and Focus 29:56 - Analyzing and Synthesizing Content with AI 32:53 - Repurposing Content Across Platforms 38:24 - Personalized Marketing Strategies 40:40 - Big Inbox Energy Training Connect with Andréa: Website: onlinedrea.com Instagram: instagram.com/onlinedrea Threads: threads.net/@onlinedrea YouTube: youtube.com/@onlinedrea | |||
| Client Experience Essentials: The 5 Layers You Actually Need | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:08:14 | |
Your client experience doesn’t start with a workflow or a fancy journey map. It starts with the words you choose and the tone you set. In this solo episode, I’m breaking down the 5 Client Experience Essentials — the layered framework I now use to help creatives build businesses that book faster, serve better, and feel easier to run. And while most people start with automation or journey mapping, I’m here to tell you why the real foundation of your experience is your client communication. If you’ve ever felt like your backend was “done” but your clients still seemed confused, clunky, or ghost-prone — this one’s for you. Find It Quickly: 01:10 — The 5 Client Experience Essentials, defined 02:10 — Why most creatives start with the wrong layer 02:28 — House analogy: what communication, workflows, and delivery systems really are 03:14 — Why poor communication breaks even great systems 04:31 — Your voice is the experience: what builds trust 04:53 — Where journey mapping fits (and why it’s not step 1) 05:14 — What to fix first if your experience feels clunky 05:37 — From systems strategist to experience architect 06:06 — Inside Email Like You Mean It and how it helps 📘 Email Like You Mean It – My self-paced course for writing strategic, on-brand client emails https://coliejames.com/email 🎧 Subscribe to Business-First Creatives Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-first-creatives/id1626652456 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5btYwigg8aN6UCzImRvEfb?si=3b4e1ce675734fba | |||
| How to Write Client Emails Without Stress — Bringing Back the 3 Ps | 30 Jun 2026 | 00:10:30 | |
So it's been a hot minute since I ranted about client communication, y'all. In this replay of episode 204, I'm breaking down the three things every single client email needs — automated or not — to actually get read: purpose, personality, and preview. I'll walk you through how to title your email templates by purpose (hint: your clients never see the title, so make it work for you), why a Schitt's Creek GIF might be doing more for your client relationships than you think, and the one question every email should answer before your client even has to ask it: what happens next? Plus, your homework — pick one email in your client experience and run it through the three Ps. I dare you to stop at just one. 😂 I'm also inviting you to join July's Experience Edit, my 10-day live sprint (July 13–24) where we map your client journey and write your entire client communication library — 30+ pre-written emails — in just one week. 🔗 Grab your spot: coliejames.com/experience 🔗 Grab the free resource, Mind the Gap: coliejames.com/gap | |||
| Creating AI Content that Sounds Like You with Kinsey Soderberg | 19 Jun 2025 | 00:59:12 | |
What if I introduced you to the person who completely changed how I use AI in my business? I want you to meet Kenzie Soderberg, the AI strategist behind The Brand Blueprint. In this episode, we explore why AI isn’t just a flashy gimmick—it’s reshaping workflows, first drafts, and even offer strategy at lightning speed. With Kenzie's human-first approach, we deep dive into training AI like an intern, infusing voice and values into every prompt, and harnessing memory so you don’t repeat yourself. Find it Quickly: 00:45 - Meet Kinsey Soderberg 03:32 - The Rise of AI in Business 08:51 - Training Your AI Assistant: Best Practices 14:08 - The Power of Memory in AI Tools 22:45 - Creating a Brand Blueprint with AI 30:39 - Introduction to the Brand Persona Mini Course 31:34 - The Importance of the Offer Suite 33:10 - Simplifying Your Offer Suite with AI 33:42 - Creating an Everything Page 35:25 - Using AI to Plan and Strategize 37:42 - AI Integration in Business Tools 40:33 - Customizing AI for Your Business Needs 48:50 - The Future of AI in Business Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Kinsey: Website: authenticaiforentrepreneurs.com AI Brand Blueprint: authenticaiforentrepreneurs.com/ai-brand-blueprint Instagram: instagram.com/authenticaiforentrepreneurs | |||
| The Secret to More Connection? Strategic Client Videos [2025 Replay] | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:13:40 | |
Today, I’m bringing back one of the most practical episodes from the Business-First Creatives archive—Episode 123 from my original Video Visibility Series. We’re talking about three simple client experience videos that build trust, improve communication, and help you stop repeating yourself. If you've been leaning into email lately (like many of us), this replay is your reminder that video deserves a place in your backend too. These videos can slot right into your forms if you are a Dubsado or Honeybook user, or linked elsewhere inside your workflows for another CRM—and once you make them, they keep working for you 24/7. Find It Quickly 00:00 – Why this old episode still hits hard (and why I’m bringing it back now) 01:19 – The sneaky client experience gap most creatives overlook 03:49 – A mindset shift that makes recording video feel way less scary 03:59 – The video that builds trust before you ever reply to an inquiry 06:35 – Could this simple video replace your entire sales call? 08:38 – The most underrated way to increase client satisfaction (with one video) 10:26 – Bonus tip: How to turn these private videos into SEO boosters 12:04 – Your process might need a totally different video—here’s how to figure it out 12:27 – Should I make a full series on client experience videos? (Tell me!) Links Mentioned Episode 207 – How to Nail Your Offer Introduction Follow me on Threads | |||
| Energetic Email Strategy for Connection & Conversion with Breanna Owen | 12 Jun 2025 | 00:44:33 | |
Ever felt like your emails just aren’t landing? This episode is your permission slip to stop overthinking and start aligning. I sat down with email copywriter Breanna Owen to dive deep into writing emails that feel good, connect authentically, and actually convert. Listen in as she leads with email energetics and brings human design into how we think about messaging. Find it Quickly: 00:24 - Meet Breanna Owen 01:01 - Breanna's Unique Approach to Email Marketing 01:40 - Breanna's Journey: From Fashion to Email Marketing 03:49 - The Power of Email Automation 08:55 - Post-Purchase Email Sequences 15:39 - Common Mistakes in Email Marketing 21:00 - Repurposing Emails into Blog Posts 21:58 - Reflecting on the Episode 22:02 - Turning Emails into Blog Posts 22:45 - Creative Ways to Repurpose Content 23:49 - The User Experience in Email Marketing 26:57 - Exploring Audio Formats for Emails 31:46 - Human Design and Email Marketing Mentioned in this Episode: SEO is Everywhere: Optimizing Your Content with Brittany Herzberg Embracing Workflows & Automations in Your CRM: HoneyBook Case Study with Brittany Herzberg SEO through Case Studies | Simple SEO Series with Brittany Herzberg (Part 3) Storytelling Email Marketing w/ Breanna Owen [The Basic B Podcast] How to Turn an Email into a Blog Post w/ Breanna Owen [The Basic B Podcast] Email Me: hi@coliejames.com Connect with Breanna: Website: owenyourmark.com Get on her email list: owenyourmark.com/links Instagram: instagram.com/owenyourmark | |||
| The Confidence Loop: The Secret Behind Every Workflow That Converts | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:09:12 | |
In part two of Emails Behind the Experience, I’m sharing a lesson straight from inside my course, Email Like You Mean It. It’s called The Confidence Loop — and it explains how every email you send (or don’t send) shapes the client experience. Because let’s be real: your workflows might be automated, but your client relationships aren’t. And when someone ghosts after a strong inquiry? It’s not your pricing — it’s a confidence gap. If you want your emails to stop falling flat and start building trust from the very first touchpoint, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why good work alone doesn’t create raving fans How communication builds (or breaks) client trust The core steps of the Confidence Loop framework Real-world moments that reinforce—or ruin—your client’s decision to book How to create an email system that builds momentum, not confusion 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned Join the waitlist or learn more about Email Like You Mean It Listen to Part 1: The 5 Workflows Every Creative Business Needs Why I’m Not Just Talking About Workflows Anymore 3 Must Have Elements for Every Client Email Communication | |||
| The 5 Workflows Every Creative Needs in Their CRM (2025 Update) | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:10:25 | |
In this solo episode, I’m giving a glow-up to my most downloaded and shared episode from this podcast: the workflows every creative business needs. I'm expanding from the original 4-workflow framework to 5 — because not only have the tools improved (hello, HoneyBook Automations 2.0 👀), but so has my perspective. Your workflows aren’t just about automation… they’re about the conversation. This is Part 1 of a two-part series called Emails Behind the Experience. In Part 2, I’ll be sharing the very first lesson from my new course, Email Like You Mean It. Stay tuned! Find It Quickly: 00:27 – Why I’m giving this episode a glow-up (and what’s changed) 00:55 – The shift from automation to communication in workflows 01:42 – How to start strong with pre-qualifying and personalization 03:02 – Creating a five-minute booking experience with smart follow-ups 05:10 – Building momentum and trust in the “messy middle” 06:33 – Turning handoff moments into clarity and celebration 07:28 – How to extend the relationship with rebooking + referrals 09:19 – How you can listen to Lesson 1 in Email Like You Mean It Links Mentioned: Episode 23: Original 4 Workflow Framework Replay: The Magic of Follow-Up Emails Email Like You Mean It (new email course) CRM Blueprint for Creatives (client experience implementation course) | |||
| The 4 Buyer Types and How to Sell to Each One with Courtney Fanning | 05 Jun 2025 | 00:47:12 | |
What if I told you that your sales page might be turning buyers away before they even click? Courtney Fanning joins us to dig into why people buy (or don’t). From the socializer who shops based on vibes to the thinker who reads every last FAQ, Courtney walks us through the four buyer types—and how your messaging needs to shift if you want to convert each one. Listen in as we chat about how your business stage affects your buying behavior, why done-with-you offers are such a wild ride to sell, and how to adapt your messaging without burning it all down. If you’ve ever been confused by crickets on your sales page, this one’s for you. Find it Quickly: 00:24 - Meet Our Guest: Courtney Fanning 01:14 - The Fascinating World of Buyer Personas 02:59 - The Four Buyer Types 06:05 - Deep Dive into the Socializer 09:12 - Understanding the Director 11:08 - Exploring the Relator 13:20 - Insights on the Thinker 14:55 - Blending Buyer Types and Sales Strategies 19:52 - Adapting Sales Messaging for Business Growth 24:38 - Navigating Post-COVID Business Shifts 25:17 - Adapting Messaging for New Audiences 25:52 - Small Changes, Big Impact 26:29 - The Power of Relationship Marketing 28:45 - Crafting Effective Sales Pages 30:04 - Understanding Buyer Types 33:56 - Leveraging AI for Copywriting 39:56 - Balancing DIY and Done For You Programs Mentioned in this Episode: Blog Post on the 4 Buyer Types Connect with Courtney | |||
| How I Turned My Podcast into a Revenue Generator: Celebrating 3 Years of Business-First Creatives ft. Haylee Gaffin | 29 May 2025 | 00:49:01 | |
Ever wondered what three years of podcasting can really do for your business? In this special episode, I switch seats with my producer, Haylee Gaffin, as she interviews me about how I’ve used Business-First Creatives to grow, market, and evolve my business. Listen in as we walk through launching my podcast three years ago to turning it into a strategic, revenue-driving content engine, I share the pivots, lessons, and behind-the-scenes of what’s actually working in my podcast strategy. Find it Quickly: 00:47 - The Journey of Starting a Podcast 04:29 - Launch Strategies and Initial Challenges 07:18 - Evolving Content and Audience 10:10 - Leveraging Podcasts for Business Growth 14:47 - Repurposing Content and Marketing Strategies 22:23 - Feed Drops and Collaborative Opportunities 25:05 - Integrating Podcast Goals with Business Objectives 25:32 - The Importance of Client Testimonials 26:48 - Feedback from Chat GPT 27:53 - Revamping Podcast Content Strategy 29:43 - Email Marketing Strategies 35:55 - Testing and Adapting Strategies 38:10 - Podcasting ROI and Success Stories 45:55 - Future Plans for the Podcast 47:42 - Three-Year Podcast Anniversary Mentioned in this Episode:
Connect with Haylee: | |||
| The Follow-Up Framework That Still Closes Clients [2025 Replay] | 26 May 2025 | 00:20:08 | |
Ever sent a proposal and heard crickets? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not doomed. In this replay of one of my most downloaded episodes, I’m breaking down why follow-up emails are non-negotiable if you want to book more clients (without being pushy). Then I’ll fast-forward to 2025 to show you how I’ve upgraded this strategy with a storytelling twist that makes your emails feel personal, powerful, and high-converting. In this episode, you’ll learn:
Want my plug-and-play follow-up templates? Grab them for just $9 in the Systems Shop: https://coliejames.com/follow-up-emails/ Let’s make ghosting a thing of the past. | |||
| Marketing Mondays Will Transform Your Business Strategy with Melissa Arlena and Alison Bell | 22 May 2025 | 00:56:04 | |
Are you managing your marketing tasks efficiently in your business? In this episode, I sat down with Melissa Arlena and Allison Bell, co-hosts of the Keep It Moving podcast, for a no-notes-required conversation about what it really takes to market your business, how to balance multiple brands, or just trying to figure out what’s working and what’s not. We talk about Marketing Mondays, email strategies, and moving your business across the country (or the world). Plus listen in as we highlight why SEO is the key to your long-term marketing strategy and what happens when you get too comfortable with your rankings (spoiler: Google notices). This episode is part pep talk, part strategy session, and a whole lot of real talk. If you’ve ever said, “I’m doing everything and still feel behind,” this one’s for you. The Marketing Monday framework from this episode is featured in my complete guide to getting photography clients: https://coliejames.com/how-to-get-photography-clients/ Find it Quickly: 01:13 - Marketing Monday: The Importance of Marketing in Creative Businesses 01:48 - Allison's Journey: Relocating a Photography Business 05:13 - Melissa's Story: From IT to Photography and SEO 07:35 - The Role of Email Marketing in Business Growth 10:38 - Strategies for Effective Marketing 15:47 - Utilizing AI for Content Creation and Marketing 26:31 - Marketing Mondays: Planning and Execution 28:53 - Marketing Monday Routines 31:07 - Content Creation Strategies 31:26 - Ideation and Content Hubs 32:33 - Podcast Planning and Execution 40:58 - Effective Marketing Activities 50:18 - Email List Management Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Melissa and Alison: | |||
| Getting Paid for Travel Photography Sessions with Kellie Llewellyn | 15 May 2025 | 00:37:32 | |
If you want to get paid to travel to your sessions, there are so many logistics to consider. While Kellie Llewellyn was coordinating her sessions to fit her own travel schedule when she started, she eventually shifted to where she is now traveling specifically for sessions. Listen in as Kellie shares her experience in coordinating and photographing travel senior sessions! Today’s episode is brought to you by DIY Template Shop! Grab the exact email, form, and workflow templates that I include inside the CRM Blueprint Course. Steal my templates and customize them to match your brand and process. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off. Find it Quickly: 00:25 - Meet Kellie Llewellyn: Senior Photographer 00:50 - The Unscripted Conversation Approach 1:42 -Kellie's Unique Travel Photography Offer 3:35 - Kellie's First Travel Session Experience 7:01 - Traveling to Glacier National Park 8:00 - Planning and Logistics of Travel Sessions 11:09 - Handling Travel Fees and Client Coordination 18:41 - Contingency Plans for Travel Sessions 19:41 - Lessons Learned from Early Travel Sessions 22:02 - Promoting Travel Sessions on Social Media 22:55 - Managing Travel Session Inquiries and Bookings 30:37 - Collaborating with Clients on Locations 33:47 - Final Tips and Encouragement for Travel Sessions Connect with Kellie Website: kellierochelle.com Instagram: @kellierochellephotography Kellie's Travel Freebie: kellierochelle.com/scout | |||
| From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Learning How Your CRM Works with Danielle Kent | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:37:16 | |
What if the biggest benefit of better systems wasn't saving time, but finally trusting your business to run without you? In this episode, I sit down with Danielle Kent, a birth photographer, doula, and educator who joined Systems in Session after already investing in a professionally built Dubsado setup. Her systems worked, but she still felt disconnected from them. She wanted the confidence to understand, customize, and expand her workflows without relying on someone else every time her business evolved. We talk about the difference between having systems built for you and learning how to build them yourself, how automation transformed her long client journeys, and why understanding your CRM can become one of the most valuable skills you develop as a business owner. Find It Quickly 00:24 - Why Danielle Joined Systems in Session 02:58 - "I Felt Lost in My Own System" 05:31 - The Confidence to Make Changes 06:55 - Building New Offers Inside Dubsado 09:15 - From Fear to Flexibility 10:05 - Why Pixieset Wasn't Enough 13:40 - The Manual Tasks Dubsado Eliminated 15:57 - More Time, Less Stress 24:39 - Danielle's Favorite Dubsado Feature 28:01 - Should You Learn Your CRM or Outsource It? 32:27 - What's Next for Danielle's Business Mentioned in this Episode How this Wedding Photographer Plans to Save 180 Hours a Year With Better Systems with Jordan Craig Connect with the Guest Website: daniellekentphoto.com Instagram: instagram.com/daniellekentphoto | |||
| How to Use AI in Your Business and Create Tools for Your Offers | 08 May 2025 | 00:32:51 | |
What if you could create custom AI tools that save you hours, elevate your client experience, and make your business run smoother? (Spoiler: you can.) In today's episode, I’m joined by my real-life bestie and AI-building genius, Kate Hejde, where we’re pulling back the curtain on how we’re both using AI to level up our businesses. We’re diving into how Kate is creating custom GPTs for herself and her clients, along with the first thing you need to know before building your own AI-powered tool. You'll also hear how to use AI far beyond just writing copy—think brain dumps, buyer personas, project organization, and more! Find it Quickly: 00:41 - Diving into AI Obsession 01:10 - Kate's Journey with AI Tools 02:59 - My AI Tool Experience 05:26 - Creating Custom AI Tools 06:38 - Building Advanced AI Applications 09:07 - Using AI for Business Efficiency 15:21 - Launching New AI Tools and Memberships 24:01 - Future Plans Mentioned in this Episode: 101: What Your Website Really Needs with Kate Hejde Connect with Kate Instagram: @dearkatebrandstrategy Website: dearkatebrandstartegy.com Shop: dearkatebrandstrategy.com/shop Youtube: @dearkatebrandstrategy | |||
| Why ChatGPT Is My New Favorite Team Member (Sorry, Airtable) | 05 May 2025 | 00:18:59 | |
ChatGPT just beat out Airtable as my most-used tool—and y’all know that’s saying a lot. In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I’ve trained custom GPTs to think like me, work like me, and help me serve my clients better than ever. We’re not just talking about AI for the sake of it. I’m walking you through the three custom GPTs I’ve built—what they do, how I use them daily, and why I can’t stop creating new tools for my AI Systems Squad. (Speaking of AI tools… I’m also cooking up even more inside my CRM Blueprint course 👀) Whether you’re AI-curious or just tired of starting content from scratch, this is the pep talk + strategy breakdown you didn’t know you needed. Your first AI assistant doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to sound like you. 👀 Want access to the AI Systems Squad? Join CRM Blueprint before May 9th and lock in the current price before it goes up to $997. More AI-powered client experience tools are coming, and this is your backstage pass. Learn more HERE. Find it Quickly: 01:25 – Why ChatGPT is now my most-used business tool 02:18 – Why I started building custom GPTs instead of using pre-built AI features 03:33 – Tool #1: The Strategy Call Summary Assistant (and why note takers don’t cut it) 06:12 – Tool #2: The Systems Professor Email Assistant (inside Email Like You Mean It) 11:25 – Tool #3: The Repurposing Content GPT and how it ideated this very episode 14:43 – Why AI won’t replace my human team (and how it helps us all work smarter) 16:19 – A working weekend that turned into an AI teaching moment 17:26 – Encouragement for those overwhelmed by AI—and how to get started Mentioned in this Episode: Email Like You Mean It - Join the Waitlist HERE | |||
| How to Nail Your Offer Introduction | 01 May 2025 | 00:16:13 | |
You've got the skills. You've got the offer. But if your leads are ghosting after you introduce it—we have a problem. In today’s episode, we're digging into one of the most critical (but often overlooked) parts of your client experience: the offer introduction. It's not just about rattling off prices or services — it's about creating clarity, building trust, and making the next step a no-brainer for your leads. Whether you’re hopping on a live sales call, recording a walkthrough video, or using tools to guide your leads, this episode will show you how to prep, present, and close with confidence. Your offer deserves a powerful introduction — let's make sure it gets one. Find it Quickly: 00:28 - The Importance of Offer Introduction 02:05 - Preparing for Your Offer Introduction 04:42 - Effective Communication During Sales Calls 05:30 - Using Video Ask for Client Engagement 13:59 - Final Tips and Strategy Calls Mentioned in this Episode: | |||
| Why Your Best Leads Don’t Convert | 28 Apr 2025 | 00:11:40 | |
You’re doing the marketing. Your portfolio is strong. You’re attracting the right people… but then they disappear. Sound familiar? Let's dive into why potential clients ghost—even when everything seems like it’s working. Spoiler: it’s not about your pricing or your talent. It’s about what happens after they hit “submit” on your contact form. I'm breaking down the common gaps in your client experience that are causing leads to fall through the cracks—from delayed replies and overwhelming next steps to missing emotional connections and unclear proposals. If you’re ready to stop getting ghosted and start getting booked, this one’s for you. Find it Quickly: 00:48 - Understanding Client Ghosting 02:03 - Four Common Client Experience Breakdowns 06:30 - Building Confidence Through Clarity 08:16 - Effective Sales Calls and Proposals Ready for a client experience that brings rave reviews, referrals, and repeat clients? Check out Email Like You Mean It, my client communication quarterly sprint where we draft your pre-planned client communication library in 5 days. | |||
| Communicate with Clients Like a Pro: 5 Tips for a Better Experience with Christine Dammann | 24 Apr 2025 | 00:29:40 | |
Is your lack of communication holding you back from creating an amazing experience for your clients? In today's episode, Christine Dammann joins us to share 5 essential tips to setting up clients for success through effective communication. Today’s episode is brought to you by my Love Your Leads private audio training! Are you providing an experience for your leads that sets an expectation on when they’ll hear from you, provides them with tools that will help them easily say yes and book you, while also making them feel seen and heard? In my private audio training, you’ll learn how to love your leads and get more booked clients through an automated booking process. Find it Quickly: 1:09 - Meet Christine 2:57 - Tip 1 - Send a pre-session guide 9:55: Tip 2 - Set the tone with a warm welcome email 10:35: Tip 3 - Text like a pro, not a clingy ex 14:36: Tip 4 - Underpromise and overdeliver 20:25: Tip 5 - Ask for the review Mentioned in this Episode Connect with Christine Website: christinedammann.com Instagram: @christinedammannphotography Christine's Freebie: christinedammann.com/google-freebie Youtube: youtube.com/@christinekdammann | |||
| The 3 Must-Have Elements for Every Client Experience Email | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:08:11 | |
Want your client emails to actually get read? In this bite-sized solo episode, Colie shares the three things every email in your client experience must include—whether it's automated or not. If your messages are getting ghosted or you're stuck rewriting the same email over and over, this is your sign to simplify and streamline. These tips will help you write emails that sound like you and actually move your clients forward. Find it Quickly 00:00 – Why most emails fall flat 01:11 – The real purpose of your emails 02:25 – How to inject personality (yes, GIFs count!) 04:57 – The secret power of a preview 06:13 – Quick challenge to improve your emails Ready to write emails you're actually proud of and create a client experience that brings rave reviews, referrals, and repeat clients? Check out Email Like You Mean It, my client communication quarterly sprint where we draft your pre-planned client communication library in 5 days. | |||
| What I Got Wrong About Workflows (and What I’m Focusing on Now) | 17 Apr 2025 | 00:08:40 | |
You’ve heard me preach the power of workflows for years—but what if that’s not where your client experience actually starts? In this episode, I’m sharing the mindset shift that’s changed how I support creative entrepreneurs and why I’m putting client communication front and center. We’ll talk about what most people really need before they’re ready to automate, the truth about writing emails that connect, and why your words matter more than your workflow (at least at first). Check out Email Like You Mean It, my client communication quarterly sprint where we draft your preplanned client communication library in 5 days. https://coliejames.com/email Find it Quickly 01:05 – Why I’m shifting focus from workflows to communication 02:36 – The real difference in your client journey 03:42 – What held me back from teaching email strategy 04:37 – The spark (not a framework) you actually need 05:22 – Why most people aren’t ready for workflows 07:06 – Communication comes before automation 07:41 – A sneak peek at the Systems Glow-Up challenge | |||
| SEO is Everywhere: Optimizing Your Content with Brittany Herzberg | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:46:50 | |
Did you know the benefits of SEO expand beyond your website? Brittany Herzberg joins us to share how you can optimize for search across multiple platforms and content types! Listen in as she defines SEO, walks us through optimizing our content, and shares how to be intentional with your optimization! Today’s episode is brought to you by my Love Your Leads private audio training! Are you providing an experience for your leads that sets an expectation on when they’ll hear from you, provides them with tools that will help them easily say yes and book you, while also making them feel seen and heard? In my private audio training, you’ll learn how to love your leads and get more booked clients through an automated booking process. Find it Quickly: 02:34 - Understanding SEO Basics 06:34 - Optimizing Your Website Pages 19:30 - The Importance of Blogging for SEO 24:11 - Starting with a Blank Page: Overcoming Writer's Block 24:16 - SEO Strategy: From Keywords to Content 25:23 - Engaging with Leads: Setting Expectations 25:59 - Blogging Frequency and Content Opportunities 26:54 - Optimizing Blog Posts for Client Engagement 30:11 - SEO Tips: Intention and Technicalities 32:13 - Podcast SEO: Show Notes and Descriptions 40:16 - Optimizing Social Media Profiles for SEO Mentioned in this Episode SEO through Case Studies | Simple SEO Series with Brittany Herzberg Embracing Workflows & Automations in Your CRM: HoneyBook Case Study with Brittany Herzberg Google Search Console Resource Video Digital Communications Etiquette w/ Michelle A. Whyte Connect with Brittany Website: brittanyherzberg.com Instagram: @brittany_herzberg Podcast: The Basic B Podcast Private Podcast: SEO & Grow | |||
| Your Systems Are Doing Too Much (and Clients Feel It) — Simplify Your Systems | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:09:07 | |
Does every single offer need a fully built out client experience? While I think it's necessary to create a powerful experience that leave your client raving about you, I also am a huge fan of simple systems. In this episode I'm walking you through how you might be overcomplicating your systems for some of your offers and why you should leave the more robust systems for your signature offers. Find it Quickly: [00:29] The Importance of Client Experience [01:23] Simple Offers Explained [03:20] Stop Overcomplicating Your Systems [04:28] Essential Elements for Simple Offers [05:49] Summarizing and Upselling [07:02] Evaluating & Simplifying Your Systems Mentioned in this Episode | |||
| Don’t Blame Your Prices, Fix Your Systems First | 04 Apr 2025 | 00:15:18 | |
We made it to 200 episodes—and I’m bringing the fire 🔥 I’m taking this opportunity to revisit one of the first truths I ever shared on the podcast: just because someone says no to your offer doesn’t mean your price is the problem. If your bookings have slowed or leads keep ghosting you, it’s time to take a hard look at your systems—not your rates. I’m breaking down what actually moves someone from “just curious” to “ready to book,” what your system might be missing, and how to figure out where things are falling through the cracks—so you can finally build a client experience that earns more YESes. Find it Quickly: [00:00] Celebrating episode 200 + shoutout to Haylee [01:11] The real reason people aren’t booking (it’s not your price) [01:33] Your offer needs a system that supports it [02:19] Why your website can’t do all the heavy lifting [04:15] Most creatives build task lists, not client experiences [04:46] Client journey vs. client experience [06:16] Are your leads ready to buy? [07:31] Why consultation calls aren’t just about closing—they’re “decision calls” [10:32] Sales videos as an alternative to calls [11:32] Why lowering prices or adding deliverables won’t fix broken systems [12:25] The role of a client experience audit and what to look for [13:49] Why offboarding is key to referrals and retention [14:08] What comes next? Mentioned in this Episode Episode 1 - If you keep hearing NO Episode 101 - What your website really needs Episode 123 - 3 Videos for Your Client Experience | |||
| The Follow-Up Your CRM Can't Do For You | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:11:38 | |
Y'all know I love a good automated follow-up sequence — but automation only works when a lead is still warm. This episode is about what to do three to six months later, when it's time to personally re-engage the people who went quiet. I'm walking you through the four buckets of people who belong on your re-engagement list (including some you might not have thought of), where to reach out based on where you last connected, and exactly what to say so the conversation feels human — not salesy. Your homework: set a timer for 30 minutes and build your list. I've laid out the plan fully in this blog post ⤵️ https://coliejames.com/follow-up-for-cold-leads/ Tune in next week for Part 2, where I'll walk through how I manage all of this inside Notion and share the full action plan. Join Systems in Session before July 10th and get July's Experience Edit for FREE. You can get details at https://coliejames.com/systems | |||
| I Audited My Freebies—Here’s What I Found | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:17:25 | |
Ever wondered if your freebies are helping people buy—or just taking up digital space? In this episode, I’m sharing how a single podcast (shoutout to Jenn Green!) made me rethink everything I’ve ever created. I ran my freebies through her mini/medium/large framework, pulled in ChatGPT to help, and uncovered a few surprising gaps—and a lot of hidden potential. If you’ve got a few too many opt-ins floating around… this one’s for you. Find it Quickly [00:00] Something strange started happening with my freebies… 👀 [01:07] What does it really mean when someone downloads three freebies at once? [01:56] Did my “everything” page work a little too well? [02:43] Multiple freebies, multiple formats… but where’s the journey? [03:51] A single podcast episode flipped how I think about every freebie I’ve made [05:18] Do you have a strategy beyond opt-ins? [05:46] So I fed ChatGPT the podcast transcript and said: analyze this for me [06:57] The moment I realized I wasn’t repurposing my best content [07:58] When AI told me I had no large lead magnets 😅 [08:39] What actually is a high-value freebie? [10:09] Can a 20-minute video be considered “in-depth”? [10:53] Spoiler: I don’t want to teach anything for 90 minutes [12:41] Revisiting my “email guide” freebie [13:29] Will turning one training into two formats = a better experience? [14:48] My new non-negotiable: every freebie must lead to a win [15:35] Want to clean up your own freebie graveyard? Start here [16:23] It’s not about more content. It’s about making it all work together Mentioned in this Episode Systems Saved Me Podcast (Guest Host Jenn Green) | |||
| How to Create a 5-Minute Booking Process Inside Your Client Experience [Client Experience Series Pt 4] | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:11:56 | |
Ready to make booking you effortless for your clients? In this episode, I’m breaking down how to create a five-minute booking process using a well-structured proposal (or quote/smart file, depending on your CRM). If booking feels like a scavenger hunt, leads will ghost instead of sign—but with the right setup, you can take them from inquiry to booked in just minutes! If you’ve been following along in the Client Experience Series, this final step ties everything together! Plus, if you need an easy button, check out my pre-made booking proposal templates for Dubsado & HoneyBook. No Canva or coding required! 🔗 Grab your proposal template here → coliejames.com/booking-templates Don't forget to use the code PODCAST for 10% off. Find it Quickly 1:09 - Why You Need a Five-Minute Booking Process 2:38 - Key Benefits of Proposals & Smart Files 3:29 - What Makes a Highly Converting Proposal? 3:55 - The Header Section 4:52 - The About You Section 6:00 - The Process Section 6:33 - FAQs & Handling Objections 7:25 - Simplifying Your Offers 8:59 - Making This Work Without Dubsado/HoneyBook 9:23 - Final Tips for a High-Converting Proposal 9:47 - Easy Button: Proposal Templates 10:41 - Next Steps & Wrap-Up | |||
| How to Design Workflows That Enhance Your Client Experience [Client Experience Series Pt 3] | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:16:19 | |
This is the third episode of the Client Experience Series! Now that you’ve mapped out your client experience, it’s time to turn those steps into workflows inside your CRM. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to structure your workflows into phases, determine what should happen automatically versus manually, and set up the triggers that keep everything running smoothly. If you haven’t listened to last week’s episode on mapping your client experience, go back and give it a listen first! Find it Quickly: 01:19 - Breaking Your Client Experience into Phases 02:32 - The Four Essential Workflows 04:21 - How to Assign Workflow Triggers 05:13 - Automate vs. Manual Steps 06:11 - Does It Need a Personal Touch? 07:07 - Example: Building an Inquiry Workflow 10:26 - Creating a Workflow Recipe 12:41 - Testing Your Workflows 13:56 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps Client Experience Audit Ep. 195 - A Breakdown of My Audit Process | |||