Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Eat Blog Talk
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 677: How to Start a Successful Food Podcast or Live Stream That Supports Your Brand with Debra Eckerling | 10 Apr 2025 | 00:55:26 | |
In episode 677, Debra Eckerling teaches us how to start a successful podcast or live stream by leveraging our existing food blog content and audience. Debra Eckerling is a goal-strategist, workshop leader, and award-winning author and podcaster. The creator of The DEB Method for goal-setting simplified, Debra works with individuals, teams, and businesses on personal and professional projects, networking strategy, and book/book proposal development. She hosts GoalChatLive/GoalChat and the Taste Buds with Deb podcasts, and is the author of "Your Goal Guide" and "52 Secrets for Goal-Setting and Goal-Getting." In this episode, you’ll learn how to break through common barriers and launch a podcast or live show that supports your brand and expands your reach. Key points discussed include: - Podcasting doesn’t have to be perfect: You don’t need expensive equipment or flawless execution—just start recording and sharing your content. - Time management is key: Look at your current schedule and find ways to eliminate tasks or adjust priorities to make room for your podcast. - Leverage what you already have: Your food blog gives you a built-in niche, brand, and audience—use that as the foundation for your podcast. - Networking is a major benefit: A podcast provides an opportunity to connect with experts, expand your network, and build relationships that can benefit your brand. - Start simple and evolve: Begin with a basic concept and let your show naturally develop based on what works best for you and your audience. - Repurpose your content: Use your podcast episodes in blog posts, social media, YouTube, and more to maximize your reach. - Commit to consistency: Whether you publish weekly, biweekly, or monthly, sticking to a regular schedule is essential for audience growth. - Treat your podcast like an appointment: Schedule time for your podcast work and honor it as you would any other important commitment. Guest Details Connect with Debra Eckerling | |||
| 676: 5 Steps to Build Consistency in Your Habits for Long-Term Success (Mindset & Self-Care) | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:28:25 | |
Building consistency in your habits is the key to long-term success - learn five simple steps to make habits stick, even when life gets in the way. There’s so much power in being consistent with your habits, and it’s not about being perfect or overly ambitious. It’s about showing up, even in small ways, every single day. I recently read a quote that really stuck with me: "Forming good habits isn't about being perfect, it's about being more of who you are." That hit me hard because when we build habits that align with who we truly are, they become effortless and life-changing. Let’s break it down into five steps so you can build habits that stick for the long haul! Action Plan: 1 - Start Small and Build Gradually: Begin with tiny, manageable habits and gradually build on them. 2 - Make Habits Non-Negotiable: Treat your habit as a must-do part of your day, no exceptions. 3 - Track Your Progress and Celebrate Wins: Use a tracker and celebrate small wins to stay motivated. 4 - Stay Committed Even When Results Aren’t Immediate: Trust the proces, even when results aren’t immediate. 5 - Adjust and Adapt When Necessary: Life happens—adjust but don’t give up! Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 675: Pinterest Trends For Food Bloggers - How to Drive More Traffic To Your Blog with Laura Piper | 07 Apr 2025 | 00:49:29 | |
In episode 675, Megan chats to Laura Piper about how to leverage Pinterest Trends to increase your visibility and drive more traffic to your food blog. Laura Piper is a Pinterest expert who works exclusively with food bloggers. Her mission is to help them make Pinterest their #1 traffic source without feeling frustrated or overwhelmed. Using her proven Pinterest strategies, along with in-depth Pinterest trends and keyword insights, she simplifies the platform for food bloggers, allowing them to focus on what they love most—creating amazing new recipes. In this episode, we break down practical strategies for using Pinterest Trends effectively, helping you create timely content that reaches the right audience at the right moment. Key points discussed include: - Pinterest Trends is a goldmine: This free tool helps you identify what people are searching for and when to publish your content for maximum impact. - Use seasonal trends to your advantage: Find emerging trends early to ensure your content gains traction as searches increase. - Growing trends aren’t always the best choice: Instead of targeting already popular trends, focus on those about to take off. - Timing is key: Start pinning seasonal content well in advance—sometimes months ahead—to give Pinterest time to understand and distribute your content. - Optimize your pins with keywords: Include trending keywords in pin titles, descriptions, and board names to improve visibility. - Roundup posts can boost engagement: Pinterest favors roundup posts because they provide multiple options in one place, increasing saves and clicks. - Pinterest favors high-quality content: Authentic, original images and well-researched posts perform better, especially as Pinterest cracks down on AI-generated spam. - Less is more when pinning: Quality pins aligned with trends outperform high-volume, low-quality pinning strategies. Connect with Laura Piper | |||
| 674: Smart Strategies For Growing a Food Blog as a Side Hustle (+How to Avoid Social Media Burnout) with Alicia Gonzalez Tome | 03 Apr 2025 | 00:47:56 | |
In episode 674, Alicia Gonzalez Tome teaches us practical strategies for managing time efficiently, optmizing for SEO and balancing life and blogging - especially as a part-time blogger. Alicia Gonzalez Tome is a GF & DF nomad foodie who loves nature and sports. She had a thyroid disorder that led her to change her diet and was part of her natural recovery from this autoimmune disease. Originally from Spain and based in Australia since 2017, she is constantly traveling and currently living in her campervan along the NSW coast. In this episode, you'll learn key strategies for efficiently managing a food blog, from photography tips to time management strategies, while keeping balance in your life. Key points discussed include: - Be intentional with content: Focus on high-volume keywords and recipes that will drive traffic to your blog. - Use the right tools: Investing in tools like RankIQ, SEMrush, and the Feast plugin can save time and boost efficiency. - Batch content creation: Plan ahead and shoot multiple recipes in one session to streamline your workflow. - Keep photography simple: Use a basic camera, natural light, and minimal props to create beautiful yet efficient food photography. - Avoid social media burnout: If Instagram or other platforms drain your energy, it’s okay to take breaks and focus on SEO instead. - Schedule and plan ahead: Set clear deadlines for recipe testing, photography, and writing to stay on track. - Know your limits: Be realistic about how much content you can produce each month to maintain a work-life balance. - Take breaks when needed: Stepping back can help you return with fresh energy and creativity. If You Loved This Episode…
You’ll love Episode 593: 3 Simple Ways to Successfully Blog Part-Time While Working Full-time with Kimberlee Ho Connect with Alicia Gonzalez Tome | |||
| 673: 5 Things to Stop Thinking and Saying to Improve Your Life (Mindset & Self-Care) | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:30:52 | |
Stop letting negative thoughts and words hold you back—this episode explores five things to stop saying and thinking to create a more positive, fulfilling life. Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the power of our words and thoughts. What we tell ourselves shapes our reality, and sometimes, we don’t even realize how much negativity we let in. I recently made a commitment to be more intentional about the things I say and think—and let me tell you, it’s not always easy! But the shifts I’ve noticed already are incredible. If you want to create a better future for yourself, join me as we talk about five things to stop saying and thinking so you can start seeing real change. Action Plan: 1 - Stop complaining about things you can't control. Complaining drains your energy and keeps you stuck. Instead, focus on gratitude and actionable solutions. 2 - Stop gossiping about others. Gossip creates negativity and doesn’t serve you. Shift conversations to positive or productive topics. 3 - Stop making excuses. Excuses hold you back from growth. Take responsibility and reframe challenges into opportunities. 4 - Stop overthinking and worrying about the future. Stay present and take action instead of getting lost in “what-ifs." 5 - Stop believing you're not good enough. Replace self-doubt with affirmations and recognize your worth—because you are enough. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 672: How To Thrive (Not Just Survive) as A Recipe Blogger in 2025 with Dana Shrager | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:52:16 | |
In episode 672, Megan chats to Dana Shrager about how to stand out in today’s crowded online food blogging space by embracing authenticity and developing a unique voice. Dana Shrager is the recipe creator at Dana’s Table, where she shares recipes for Jewish holidays and healthy-ish family dinners. She started a recipe website 13 years ago to share recipes with family and friends. Three years ago, she rebranded and began running her site full-time. Now, she helps readers from around the world feel confident cooking and gathering loved ones around their holiday tables. In this episode, you'll learn how to develop a distinct blogging voice, build trust with your audience, and create content that resonates in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Key points discussed include: - Find Your Unique Point of View: Defining your niche and personal style helps you stand out among the many food blogs online. - Authenticity Matters: Readers connect more with real, relatable content rather than polished perfection. - Communicate Your Expertise: Share your recipe testing process, pitfalls, and tips to build credibility. - Leverage Audience Engagement: Engage with your readers via social media, email, and community groups to understand their needs. - Be Transparent with Your Process: Explain why your recipe works, how you developed it, and what makes it special. - SEO and Passion Go Hand in Hand: While SEO research is essential, choosing recipes that align with your expertise will attract a loyal audience. Connect with Dana Shrager | |||
| 671: From Hobby to 10 Million Page Views - The Instagram Strategy Behind My Food Blog’s Success with Amy Coyne | 27 Mar 2025 | 00:48:48 | |
In episode 671, Amy Coyne teaches us the exact strategies she used to rapidly grow her sourdough blog, Amy Bakes Bread, from 100,000 to 10 million page views in just 2 years. Amy Coyne is a sourdough teacher, recipe developer, and mom to four awesome kiddos. She has grown her website over the last two years from 100K pageviews in 2022 to almost 10 million pageviews at the end of 2024. She shares tried-and-true sourdough recipes on her website and with her Instagram and social media communities. In this episode, you'll learn how Amy leveraged Instagram, built a strong community, deeply engaging with her audience, and strategically optimizing her blog to drive millions of page views. Key points discussed include: - Don’t underestimate consistency: Amy posted daily on Instagram for over a year, which significantly contributed to her growth. - Engage with your audience: She prioritized answering followers’ questions and tailoring content to their needs. - Leverage social media for blog traffic: Instagram played a major role in directing people to her website. - Optimize for SEO: After seeing success on social media, Amy shifted her focus to improving her blog’s search rankings. - Diversify content formats: She is expanding into YouTube and email marketing to connect with a wider audience. - Trust the process and start before you're ready: Amy emphasizes the importance of taking action, even when you feel unprepared. Connect with Amy Coyne | |||
| 670: 5 Ways To Stop Ruminating (Mindset & Self-Care) | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:26:40 | |
Struggling with overthinking? In this episode, Megan shares five powerful strategies to stop ruminating and reclaim your mental clarity. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in a loop of overthinking, replaying past conversations, or worrying about things you can’t control—trust me, I’ve been there. Recently, my business coach called me out on how my own thoughts were draining me, not the external events I blamed. It was a wake-up call! So today, I’m sharing five simple but effective ways to break free from rumination and get back to a place of peace and productivity. Let’s put an end to the mental spirals together! Action Plan: 1 - Meditation: A simple daily habit to quiet the mind and break the overthinking cycle. 2 - Journaling: Get your thoughts out of your head and onto paper for instant clarity. 3 - Healthy Distractions: Shift your focus with an activity that keeps your mind engaged. 4 - Reframing & Resetting: Catch negative thoughts and flip the script to regain control. 5 - Change Your Environment: A quick physical shift can instantly reset your mental state. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 669: How to Build High-Quality Backlinks for Your Food Blog with Chris Panteli | 24 Mar 2025 | 00:52:25 | |
In episode 669, Megan chats to Chris Panteli about how food bloggers can build high-quality backlinks and boost their domain authority using digital PR strategies. Chris Panteli is the co-founder of Linkifi, a digital PR link-building agency that specializes in securing high-quality media links for clients. His entrepreneurial journey took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 33, leading him to sell his family's fish and chip shop business. Panteli holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Economics from the University of Liverpool. In January 2022, Panteli co-founded Linkifi, which rapidly grew to generate $50,000 per month within its first year. The agency focuses on responding to PR requests from journalists on behalf of clients, helping them secure valuable online links and enhance their SEO performance. Panteli is also a podcast host, co-hosting "Market Movers: Building Brands and Links with Linkifi," where he shares insights on branding, SEO, and link-building strategies. His expertise in digital PR and link building has made him a respected voice in the eCommerce and digital marketing industries. In this episode, you'll learn how to secure backlinks from top-tier media outlets, optimize your website for PR success, and track your mentions to maximize SEO benefits. Key points discussed include: - Why backlinks matter: High-quality backlinks help increase domain authority, improve SEO, and drive organic traffic. - Best platforms for PR opportunities: Websites like Source of Sources (SOS), Quoted, and Press Flow connect bloggers with journalists looking for expert sources. - How to pitch journalists successfully: Personalize your pitches, highlight your expertise, and follow up politely to increase your chances of getting featured. - Optimizing your website for PR: A clear about page, professional social presence, and credentials help journalists verify and trust your expertise. - Tracking and securing unlinked mentions: Use tools like Google Alerts and Talkwalker to monitor mentions, and reach out to request a backlink if your name appears without one. - The evolving role of AI in PR: AI can assist with research and structuring pitches, but maintaining a human, authentic tone is essential. Connect with Chris Panteli | |||
| 668: The Growth Mindset Shift - How Failure Leads to Success with Donnie Lygonis | 20 Mar 2025 | 00:43:55 | |
In episode 668, Donnie Lygonis teaches us the power of a growth mindset and how embracing failure can set you up for long-term success. Donnie Lygonis is an Innovation Strategist and Business Coach at KTH Innovation, The Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm, where he has been helping researchers and students for over 14 years, turning their ideas and results into viable products and services. Donnie enjoys working hands-on with exponential technologies and collaborating with individuals who have world-changing and world-saving ideas. His latest venture is Mellanmål Inc, a U.S.-based company focused on bringing Swedish better-for-you-and-the-planet food products to America. In this episode, you'll learn how to shift your mindset to embrace challenges, develop resilience, and build meaningful connections that can drive your business forward. Key points discussed include: - Growth mindset is key to success: Your mindset determines how you approach challenges, failure, and change—embracing growth leads to resilience and adaptability. - Failure is not the end—it's a step forward: Rather than fearing failure, view it as a learning opportunity that helps refine your approach and move closer to your goals. - Success is a personal definition: Success isn’t just about money or status—it’s about fulfillment, impact, and finding meaning in your work. - Networking is a powerful tool: Building relationships and leveraging your network can help you gain new opportunities, perspectives, and support. - Small, consistent actions lead to big results: Progress is made through small, consistent steps over time—whether it's learning a skill, growing a business, or developing a new habit. - Celebrate your wins along the way: Taking moments to reflect on and appreciate what you've accomplished can fuel motivation and a positive mindset. If You Loved This Episode…
You’ll love Episode 576: Tough Transitions – How to Transform Tremors of Change into Catalysts for Growth with James Elliot. Connect with Donnie Lygonis | |||
| 667: 5 Strategies To Recover From A Week Turned Upside Down (Mindset & Self-Care) | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:23:19 | |
In this episode, I want to share five powerful strategies to help you recover when life throws you an unexpected curveball. We’ve all had those weeks where everything is going great—until suddenly, it’s not. Maybe you get sick, something unexpected happens, or bad news completely throws off your plans. Years ago, weeks like that would have totally taken me down, and I’d struggle to get back on track. But over time, I’ve learned a few things that make bouncing back easier, and today, I’m sharing five strategies to help you recover when life turns your week upside down. Action Plan: 1 - Embrace the climb back up the mountain: Recovery takes time, and small wins are worth celebrating. 2 - Build a trusted circle of support: Having reliable people in your life makes overcoming setbacks easier. 3 - Establish good habits: Foundational habits provide stability and help you regain momentum. 4 - Prioritize self-care: Taking care of yourself is essential, even in difficult times. 5 - Practice flexibility and acceptance: Letting go of control can reduce stress and make recovery smoother. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 666: Self-Doubt is Holding You Back - How to Fix It with Dawn Ledet | 17 Mar 2025 | 00:48:20 | |
In episode 666, Megan chats to Dawn Ledet about how food bloggers can overcome self-doubt, procrastination and perfectionism by building unshakable self-trust. Dawn Ledet, a certified life coach, former corporate sales executive, and author of Master Your Inner Dialogue: Transform Your Self-Talk for Goal Success, is on a mission to help high-achieving entrepreneurs and leaders crush their goals with clarity, confidence, and ease. Drawing on her expertise in coaching and years of experience in high-stakes sales and leadership, Dawn empowers clients to rewrite self-sabotaging narratives, build unshakable self-trust, and turn inner dialogue into a powerful tool for lasting success. Through practical strategies and proven frameworks, she helps people achieve their dreams without the overwhelm. In this episode, you'll learn how mastering self-trust can help you make confident decisions, follow through on your goals, and ultimately achieve success in your blogging business. Key points discussed include: - Self-trust is the foundation of success: Without trust in yourself, challenges like procrastination and perfectionism can hold you back. - Three key skills for achieving any goal: Making decisions, following through, and having your own back are essential to personal and business growth. - Your inner dialogue shapes your reality: The way you talk to yourself can either propel you forward or keep you stuck in self-doubt. - Reframing procrastination and perfectionism: Instead of labeling yourself, recognize them as choices and get curious about why you're making them. - The power of asking the right questions: Instead of asking “Why can’t I do this?” try “What do I need to move forward?” to shift your mindset. - Energy matters in self-trust and productivity: Differentiate between draining energy and fulfilling energy that comes from aligned work. - Create an "I'm So Impressed" list: Keep track of your wins to build confidence and reinforce self-trust. Connect with Dawn Ledet | |||
| 665: Build an Online Business Without Relying On Social Media - Powerful Collaboration Strategies for Food Bloggers with Brett Dupree | 13 Mar 2025 | 00:40:40 | |
In episode 665, Brett Dupree teaches us how collaborating with other content creators—especially through virtual summits—can accelerate business growth and create a steady, self-sustained income Brett DuPree is a food blogger and the founder of Freaking Delish, where she helps hardworking families create simple, delicious meals that fit into their busy lives. In addition to her blog and membership platform, she hosts an annual summit, "What's for Dinner?": The Summit, that brings together content creators from across the food and lifestyle space to share practical tips, recipes, and inspiration. With a focus on collaboration and serving everyday families, Brett is passionate about making mealtime stress-free and meaningful for everyone. In this episode, you’ll discover powerful collaboration strategies and gain insight into hosting virtual summits, helping food bloggers expand their reach and grow their businesses, without relying on social media. Key points discussed include: - Why collaboration matters: Working together with other bloggers can accelerate your growth and open new opportunities. - The power of virtual summits: Hosting or participating in online summits helps expand your audience and generate revenue. - Breaking free from social media dependence: Brett shares why she built her business without relying heavily on social media. - Overcoming fears around video content: Being comfortable on camera can open doors to new collaborations and opportunities. - How to build strong relationships: Genuine connections with fellow bloggers can lead to ongoing collaborations and success. - Getting past rejection in collaborations: Many bloggers are hesitant to collaborate at first, but persistence and exposure to new ideas can change their mindset. - Balancing summit planning with content creation: Hosting a summit is a big commitment, so careful organization and time management are key to success. Connect with Brett Dupree | |||
| 664: 5 Small Habits That Lead to Big Personal Growth (Mindset & Self-Care) | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:23:33 | |
In this episode, I want to share five small but powerful habits that have made a huge difference in my personal growth. This past week has been a rough one for me—I’ve been sick, and it really knocked me out. But even in the toughest weeks, I’ve found that sticking to small, intentional habits makes a world of difference. Habits can make you or break you, and I’ve been on a mission to build ones that help me live my best life. Action Plan: 1 - Start Your Day with a Positive Affirmation: Set the tone for your day by reinforcing empowering thoughts. 2 - Set One Focused Goal for the Day: Prioritize what truly matters to stay on track and avoid overwhelm. 3 - Practice Gratitude Before Bed: Reflect on positive moments to improve emotional well-being and cultivate an optimistic mindset. 4 - Take 10 Minutes for Mindfulness or Meditation: Boost mental clarity, emotional resilience, and focus with a short daily practice. 5 - Read for 10-15 Minutes Daily: Gain knowledge, new perspectives, and inspiration through consistent reading. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 663: The Truth About Traditional Cookbook Publishing (Do You Really Need a Large Social Media Following?) with Jess Smith | 10 Mar 2025 | 00:38:39 | |
In episode 663, Megan chats with Jess Smith to uncover the untold truths of traditional cookbook publishing—from crafting a winning proposal to landing a deal, and whether a large social media following really matters. Jess is a mom to three girls based in Kansas City, Missouri. While living in Thailand and working at the U.S. Embassy in 2010 she took Thai cooking classes on the weekends and shared everything she learned on her food blog InquiringChef.com. In the years that followed she pursued her dream of making a career in food and became the chief recipe developer for the award-winning meal planning app Cook Smarts. Inquiring Chef has grown to over 6 million page views a year and has been featured in publications like Parade, Hallmark, and HuffPost. In 2024 Jess opened a cooking school for kids in Kansas City called Inquiring Chef Academy where she spends school breaks guiding elementary-aged kids through lessons on everything from baking sourdough to chopping vegetables to setting the table. Her first cookbook, Start with a Vegetable, will be released in January 2025. In this episode, you’ll learn how to write a compelling proposal, find an agent, work with a publisher and balance the whole process with running a blog and looking after your family. Key points discussed include: - A strong proposal is essential: Jess spent 6–8 months crafting a compelling proposal, which played a crucial role in landing her book deal. - An agent can be a game-changer: Having an agent helped Jess find a publisher and negotiate a significantly better advance. - A huge social following isn't required: Jess landed a traditional publishing deal without massive social media numbers—her strong concept and blog traffic helped. - Cookbook writing requires balance: Writing a book took time away from blogging, requiring a shift in priorities. - The editing process is intense: Working with professional editors improved her writing and recipe development skills. - Promotion is an ongoing effort: The marketing push doesn’t end at launch—Jess continues to promote her book through various channels. - Photography can be a major challenge: Jess took all the photos for her book, which was rewarding but also a significant time commitment. - Investing in support is worth it: Hiring help for styling, editing, and even dishwashing made the process smoother and more manageable. Connect with Jess Smith | |||
| 662: How to Rebuild Your Blog Traffic After Google's Helpful Content Update (HCU) with Christina Jolam and Nadia Shatila | 06 Mar 2025 | 00:44:40 | |
In episode 662, Christina Jolam and Nadia Shatila share how they were able to recover from devastating traffic loss following Google's Helpful Content Update (HCU). Nadia is the blogger behind Simple And Fraiche, a website dedicated to sharing wholesome recipes that utilize real foods with minimally processed ingredients. Her goal is to help people create recipes that not only fuel their bodies but also taste great. Christina Jolam helps home chefs get confident cooking seafood through her site, Weekday Pescatarian. The former communications consultant creates foolproof fish recipes that work whether you're shopping at a Portuguese fish market or your local grocery store. Cooking and writing from her adopted home in Portugal, she helps her followers master restaurant-quality seafood dishes and build a delicious, fish-forward lifestyle. In this episode, you’ll learn how to endure long periods of traffic loss and decide what action you should take to successfully regain momentum. Key points discussed include: - Accept the reality of change: Google updates aren’t personal; they aim to improve user experience. Adapting to change is key to long-term success. - Assess and improve your content: Review existing posts with a fresh perspective—focus on user experience, clarity, and overall helpfulness. - Strengthen EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): Build credibility by showcasing expertise in your niche through an updated about page, author bios, and citations. - Optimize technical aspects: Ensure images, alt text, interlinking, and post formatting enhance usability and search visibility. - Diversify traffic sources: Relying solely on Google traffic is risky—invest in Pinterest, email lists, social media, and brand partnerships. - Update and refine posts regularly: Revisiting older content with new insights keeps your blog relevant and valuable. - Stay curious and keep learning: Instead of blaming algorithm changes, focus on learning, adapting, and finding new ways to serve your audience. If You Loved This Episode… You’ll love Episode 648: How to Bounce Back and Thrive After Significant Google Traffic Loss with Jules Grasekamp Connect with Christina Jolam Connect with Nadia Shatila | |||
| 661: 5 Fear-Facing Opportunities to Embrace This Year (Mindset & Self-Care) | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:22:12 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about how to use fear as a catalyst for growth in five key areas to open up new opportunities this year. Fear can be a major roadblock, but what if we started viewing it as a guide instead? This year, I decided to challenge myself by facing fears head-on, and today, I’m sharing five powerful areas where stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to personal and professional growth. Whether it’s putting yourself out there in new ways, making bold business moves, or tackling financial and health challenges, embracing fear can open up new doors. Let’s dive in and get uncomfortable—in the best way possible! Action Plan: 1 - Personal Growth: Challenge limiting beliefs and take on new experiences that push you forward. 2 - Professional Growth: Show up boldly in your business, even when it feels scary or imperfect. 3 - Community: Connect with others, build relationships, and embrace the vulnerability that comes with it. 4 - Courageous Action: Take bold steps in life and business that may feel intimidating but lead to huge rewards. 5 - Health & Finances: Tackle fears around well-being and money to create a stronger foundation for success. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 660: Unlock the Power of Substack - How to Grow Your Substack Fast with Lauren Less | 03 Mar 2025 | 00:35:27 | |
In episode 660, Megan chats to Lauren Less about how to quickly grow a Substack audience and harness the platform for food blogging and community engagement. Lauren Less combines her passions for food and helping others by creating a space where people can find allergy-friendly recipes, chronic illness support, non-toxic lifestyle suggestions, and health and wellness tips. She discusses everything from fitness with chronic illness to tips for traveling with food allergies and everything in between. In this episode, you’ll learn how Lauren grew her Substack from zero to 13,000 subscribers and how Substack can serve as both an email list and a blog, helping you connect with your audience in a more personal and customizable way. Key points discussed include: - Substack is more than just an email platform: It functions like a blog, allowing creators to share content and build a community. - Growing a subscriber base takes consistency: Lauren used Instagram and TikTok to direct her audience to her Substack. - Listening to your audience is key: Making adjustments based on subscriber feedback improves engagement and retention. - Monetization is built-in: Substack allows creators to offer paid subscriptions for exclusive content. - Cross-promotion helps growth: The recommendation feature on Substack lets creators share and promote each other’s newsletters. - Substack offers more than written content: Features like podcasting, video, and live interactions help creators engage with their audience in multiple ways. - Owning your audience is crucial: Unlike social media platforms, Substack ensures direct access to subscribers without algorithm limitations. Connect with Lauren Less | |||
| 659: 7 Common Email Marketing Mistakes from 7-Figure Earners (+How to Fix Them) with Allea Grummert | 27 Feb 2025 | 00:52:01 | |
In episode 659, Allea Grummert shares seven common email marketing mistakes and how to fix them to create happy, engaged subscribers. Allea Grummert is an email marketing strategist, conversion copywriter and tech expert who helps bloggers make a lasting first impression through automated welcome and nurture sequences. She helps her clients create strategic email sequences that engage email subscribers, build brand loyalty and optimize conversions for sales and site traffic. She is the host of Happy Subscribers podcast. In this episode, you’ll learn why a thorough welcome sequence is crucial for building an engaged subscriber list and why you should clean out your email list regularly. Key points discussed include: - Welcome new subscribers properly. Many bloggers miss the chance to make a strong first impression—use a welcome page and an introduction video to engage them right away. - Make your first email personal. Avoid generic confirmation emails; instead, reflect your brand personality and set clear expectations for subscribers. - Set up a welcome sequence. A structured email sequence helps introduce new subscribers to your best content and builds a strong connection. - Personalize content wisely. Use segmentation to send relevant emails without overcomplicating your strategy. - Drive traffic back to your funnel. Regularly promote your freebies and opt-ins within your email list to keep subscribers engaged. - Clean your email list regularly. Remove inactive subscribers to improve deliverability and engagement. - Keep track of what’s being sent. Maintain an SOP (standard operating procedure) to stay organized and ensure your emails align with your strategy. Connect with Allea Grummert | |||
| 658: 5 Quick Shifts for Instant Positivity (Mindset & Self-Care) | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:21:44 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk five simple yet powerful mindset shifts that can instantly bring more positivity into your life. Some days just feel off. No matter how much we plan or try to stay positive, life, work, and everything in between can throw us off track. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to stay stuck in that negative space. I’ve found that small, intentional shifts can turn a rough day around fast, and today, I’m sharing five simple things you can do right now to boost your mood and bring more positivity into your life. These aren’t big, time-consuming tasks—they’re quick, effective, and totally doable. Action Plan: 1 - Actually Listen: Be fully present in conversations and truly hear others. 2 - Offer Undeserved Grace: Show kindness and forgiveness, even when it’s not expected. 3 - Experience a Moment: Pause and appreciate the present, no matter how small. 4 - Lose the Phone: Step away from your screen to reconnect with yourself and others. 5 - Spend 10 Minutes Decluttering: Clear your space to create mental clarity and peace. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 657: Your Brain is Not a Project Management System - How to Boost Productivity and Reduce Overwhelm in 2025 with Kara Myers | 24 Feb 2025 | 00:59:44 | |
In episode 657, Megan chats to Kara Myers about how to organize and automate your blogging business for success in 2025. Kara is the recipe developer, photographer, and voice behind Sweetly Splendid, where she shares comforting Southern and Tex-Mex recipes. She is a 6th-generation Texan and has a passion for nostalgic flavors that bring people together. Her work has been featured in outlets like Woman’s World and Food & Wine. She is a seasoned entrepreneur with multiple successful businesses, and specializes in helping others streamline their workflows and build efficient processes. Kara likes to use the approach of combining real-world experience with actionable insights for creators looking to grow and thrive. When she's not working, Kara loves camping, reading, and spending time with her daughter and dogs. In this episode, you’ll learn actionable strategies for streamlining workflows, implementing project management systems, and creating a sustainable approach to blogging. Key points discussed include: - Your brain is not a project management system: Storing everything in one place frees up mental space and increases productivity. - A time audit reveals hidden inefficiencies: Track your tasks for a week to identify bottlenecks and areas that slow you down. - Content planning reduces stress and boosts efficiency: Even planning one month ahead prevents last-minute scrambling and saves time. - Choosing the right project management tool is key: ClickUp, Asana, and Airtable help streamline tasks—pick one that fits how your brain works. - Automations free up valuable time: Tools like Zapier, Wordable, and Finite Analytics handle repetitive tasks so you can focus on growth. - Small organizational changes lead to more revenue: The more systematized your business is, the more time you have to scale and make money. - Break down big goals into actionable steps: Instead of vague yearly goals, set specific, trackable monthly milestones. - Give yourself grace and stay flexible: Life happens—adjust your systems and goals as needed without guilt. Connect with Kara Myers | |||
| 656: How To Turn a Personal Struggle Into a Thriving Niche Blog with Alicia Wolf | 20 Feb 2025 | 01:06:46 | |
In episode 656, Alicia Wolf shares how to transform personal struggles into a thriving niche blog that supports others facing similar challenges, just as she has done with her own medical journey. Alicia Wolf created a food blog after being diagnosed with chronic vestibular migraine and losing her career in design. Her blog is seen as a very small niche and not widely understood by companies, but 10% of the world population lives with migraine attacks. Alicia has been able to grow a small website that was focused on helping people with a migraine diet into 400K sessions a month with multiple sources of revenue outside of ad income as well as 2 published cookbooks. In this episode, you’ll learn tips for diversifying income outside of ad revenue, how to deal with blogging setbacks and the importance of community in a chronic-illness focused blog. Key points discussed include: - Community is key: Building a strong, engaged audience is essential for niche blogs, especially those focused on chronic illness. - Diversify your income: Relying solely on ad revenue can be risky—explore brand partnerships, consulting, books, and affiliate marketing. - Leverage your expertise: Alicia collaborates with medical professionals to add credibility to her content, making her blog a trusted resource. - Be adaptable in blogging: Google updates and social media shifts can impact traffic, so diversifying content distribution is crucial. - Consistency and patience pay off: Growing a niche blog takes time, but staying committed to quality content and engagement leads to success. - Your story is your strength: Sharing personal experiences builds trust and authenticity, helping you connect deeply with your audience. - Keep learning and evolving: Whether through domain research, audience feedback, or SEO strategies, continuous learning is key to staying relevant. Connect with Alicia Wolf
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| 655: 5 Replacements to Make for Entrepreneurial Success (Mindset & Self-Care) | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:16:07 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk five key replacements you can make in your life and business to help you achieve entrepreneurial success. Ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut, spinning on an endless hamster wheel, or trapped in an out-of-control wash cycle? I’ve been there, and I know how hard it can be to break free. That’s why I’d like to share these five powerful replacements you can make in your life and business to help you reset, refocus, and find success. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just a little lost, these shifts might be exactly what you need. Action Plan: 1 - Replace fear with courage. 2 - Replace comparison with community. 3 - Replace scarcity with abundance. 4 - Replace perfection with progress. 5 - Replace overwhelm with clarity. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 654: Food Styling Like a Pro - Tools, Composition & Creative Tricks with Ashley Freeman | 17 Feb 2025 | 00:40:33 | |
In episode 654, Megan chats with Ashley Freeman about professional food styling, including how to embrace ‘mess’ and other key elements that make food images visually appealing and unique. Ashley Strickland Freeman is the creator of the blog Little Black Skillet. Just like a "Little Black Dress," she strives to create approachable, everyday recipes her audience can trust and turn to again and again. With over 19 years of experience as a food stylist, cookbook author, recipe developer and tester, and culinary producer (culinary content creator for short), Ashley offers a unique perspective having worked on all sides of culinary publishing. In addition to developing recipes and food styling for some of her favorite brands, she's currently working on her fourth cookbook. In this episode, you’ll discover the essential equipment for capturing mouthwatering food photos, how props can make or break your shots, and the role of color theory in food photography. Key points discussed include: - Invest in a quality camera and lens: Having the right equipment, such as a DSLR camera and a versatile zoom lens, can make a significant difference in your food photography. - Use a sturdy tripod: A geared tripod, like the Manfrotto, allows you to achieve precise angles and compositions for your shots. - Experiment with budget-friendly props: Look for unique items at thrift stores, fabric shops, and even your own home to create visually appealing scenes. - Embrace color theory: Understand how complementary colors can enhance the visual appeal of your food photos. - Prioritize composition: Use odd numbers, multiples, and strategic placement to guide the viewer's eye through your images. - Enhance food appearance: Techniques like brushing cheese with oil or using thickened syrups can help make your food look fresh and irresistible. - Embrace the "mess": Don't be afraid to capture the natural imperfections and realistic details that make your food photos more approachable. - Practice and trust your intuition: Continuous practice, studying other photographers' work, and having confidence in your own style are key to improving your food photography. If You Loved This Episode…
You'll also love Episode 492: Exquisite Food Photography – How to Tell a Story with Lighting, Props, Food and Textures with Murielle Banackissa. 20% Discount code for Southern Ash Surfaces: Littleblackskillet20 Connect with Ashley Freeman | |||
| 653: Beyond Ads - How to Monetize Your Blog with a Product Line with Meggen Wilson | 13 Feb 2025 | 00:49:10 | |
In episode 653, Meggen Wilson teaches us how to create our own product line to become a profitable business without relying on ad revenue. Meggen Wilson is the founder of Pine and Palm Kitchen, a specialty food company based in Northwest Montana that creates premium, small-batch vanilla and vinegar products using organic, locally sourced ingredients like honey, apples, and spirits. A retired real estate investor and dedicated advocate for Montana’s natural habitats, Meggen combines her entrepreneurial spirit with a passion for exceptional culinary craftsmanship. Her products celebrate the land she loves, inspiring home cooks and bakers to create with care and intention. you'll discover how to choose the perfect product for your audience, along with the most effective strategies for manufacturing and selling it. Key points discussed include: - Identify your signature product: Look at your most popular recipes and consider creating a complementary product, like a spice blend or specialty ingredient, to offer your audience. - Test the market first: Start with a cottage license to validate your product idea and gather customer feedback before investing in a commercial license and scaling up. - Leverage your community: Use farmers markets, pop-ups, and local partnerships to test your product and build relationships with your target customers. - Prioritize quality and sourcing: Invest in high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients to create a premium product that reflects your brand's values. - Seek support from local resources: Reach out to your county health department and extension offices - they want to help you succeed as a small food manufacturer. - Control your distribution: Selling directly through your own online store gives you more control over pricing, branding, and the customer experience. - Have a long-term vision: Develop a 5-year plan for your product line and be patient as you build the business - it takes time to get the formula right. Connect with Meggen Wilson | |||
| 652: 5 Antidotes for Overcoming Mental Blocks and Entrepreneurial Challenges (Mindset & Self-Care) | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:18:22 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about five powerful antidotes that can help you navigate mental blocks and entrepreneurial challenges as a food blogger. I recently heard someone use the word antidote to describe how they dealt with mental blocks as an entrepreneur, and it stuck with me. I love the idea that there’s a remedy—a way to counteract the “poison” of things like overwhelm, self-doubt, and confusion that can suck the life out of us as business owners. In this episode, I’m diving into five powerful antidotes that can help you break free from those struggles that feel impossible to escape. You don’t have to stay stuck. If you can identify the “poison” and apply the right antidote, you can move forward with clarity and purpose. Let’s talk about how to do just that. Action Plan: 1 -Physical movement is the antidote for rumination. 2 - Air, water, and words is the antidote for confusion. 3 - Gratitude for people is the antidote for feeling underappreciated, undervalued, and unworthy. 4 - Doing one thing is the antidote for a lack of motivation. 5 - Setting boundaries is the antidote for overwhelm. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 651: The Hidden Costs Draining Your Business (And How to Stop Them) with Amy Roskelley | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:51:21 | |
In episode 650, Megan chats to Amy Roskelley about how a no-spend year changed her life and how we can implement the same strategy to reduce business costs and ultimately make more money. Amy Roskelley is the owner of the online nutrition resource, Health Beet. Health Beet is a resource for nutrition educators and families with a goal to improve their health through diet and exercise. Amy has a bachelor's degree in Community health from BYU and a Masters degree in Business from the University of Utah. Amy’s a certified personal trainer, published cookbook author, certified personal chef, NPC Competitor, and marathon runner. In this episode, you’ll learn how to identify which tools and services are essential for your business and why saving money now can improve the your life later. Key points discussed include: - Review your expenses regularly: Closely examine your monthly and annual business expenses to identify areas where you can cut costs without negatively impacting your operations. - Prioritize essential tools and services: Determine which software, platforms, and contractors are truly essential to your business, and eliminate or reduce the rest. - Automate and streamline processes: Look for ways to directly integrate tools and eliminate the need for expensive third-party integrations or workarounds. - Focus on content creation first: Before investing in optimization tools or services, ensure you have a solid foundation of high-quality content that resonates with your audience. - Embrace a minimalist mindset: Adopt a simplified approach to your business and personal life, focusing on the essentials and eliminating unnecessary expenses. - Diversify your income streams: Explore opportunities to generate passive income through investments or additional revenue sources, reducing your reliance on a single income stream. - Manage emotional burnout: Recognize the emotional toll that fluctuations in traffic and revenue can have, and develop strategies to maintain a positive mindset. Connect with Amy Roskelley | |||
| 650: How to Build a Loyal Following on YouTube and Social Media with Cathy Yoder | 06 Feb 2025 | 00:39:46 | |
In episode 650, Cathy Yoder teaches us how to grow a successful YouTube channel, including why having a niche expertise is essential and how to build a loyal following. Cathy Yoder is a well-regarded figure in the air fryer community, known as "The REAL Air Fryer Queen." She transformed from a reluctant cook, seeking quick ways to feed her large family of eight, into an air fryer expert and successful entrepreneur. Her business, Empowered Cooks, offers practical cooking tips, recipes, and accessories, helping busy families create nutritious meals with ease. Cathy’s journey has resonated with countless individuals, with her best-selling cookbook (over 35k copies sold) and YouTube channel (700k+ subscribers), making her a trusted voice in the kitchen. In addition to her air fryer expertise, Cathy also founded Pine & Pepper, a product line of air fryer accessories. Her story, rooted in practicality and family life, has empowered many home cooks. Whether discussing easy meal prep, building a brand, or balancing family and career, Cathy’s insights can inspire and provide actionable advice for busy parents and aspiring entrepreneurs. In this episode, you’ll learn why you should create a YouTube channel for your food blog, how to film relatable content and the importance of evaluating your content strategy regularly. Key points discussed include: - Start creating YouTube content even if it's not perfect: Don't wait for perfection, just get started and your content will improve over time. - Repurpose existing blog content into YouTube videos: Build a backlog of content by repurposing recipes, tips, and other resources you've already created. - Engage with your audience by responding to comments: Connecting with your viewers, especially when starting out, helps build a strong relationship. - Experiment with different video lengths and formats: Try out various video lengths and styles to see what resonates best with your audience. - Consider live streaming or premiering videos: These interactive features can create a more engaging experience for your viewers. - Continuously evaluate and refine your content strategy: Pay attention to what's working and adjust your approach to better align with your audience's needs. - Patience and commitment are crucial: Growing a successful YouTube channel is a long-term process, so be prepared to invest time and effort consistently. - Leverage your existing expertise and personal journey: Sharing your unique experiences and knowledge can provide valuable and relatable content for your viewers. Guest Details Connect with Cathy Yoder | |||
| 649: 5 Steps to Designing a Future You (Mindset & Self-Care) | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:20:24 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about five steps to designing a future version of yourself that is energetic, fulfilled, and happy. What does 'Future You' look like? I love this concept of being able to implement new habits and improve the quality of my life, year by year. We probably don’t realize how much control we have over our future selves. In fact, we’re all constantly shaping our lives through our thoughts, beliefs, habits, and emotions. So what is the problem? We get complacent and stop trying to change. We end up not reaching our potential, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We can shake off complacency, step into intentionality, and take control of creating a future version of ourselves that’s happy, fulfilled, and thriving. That’s what I intend to do in 2025 and here are five easy steps you can follow too. Action Plan: 1 - Design future you on paper. 2 - Display the details of your future self where you can see them daily. 3 - Start allowing the details of your future self to guide your decisions. 4 - Surround yourself with people who support your future you. 5 - Track your progress and adjust as needed. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 648: How to Bounce Back and Thrive After Significant Google Traffic Loss with Jules Grasekamp | 03 Feb 2025 | 00:35:39 | |
In episode 648, Megan chats to Jules Grasekamp about how to reframe failure as an opportunity for growth and refining your food blogging business, especially in light of Google traffic loss. Jules Grasekamp is the sweet-toothed Scot behind Bonni Bakery, a dessert blog showing you how to easily create impressive desserts at home. She uses her experience from 10 years of running her own bakery to give detailed recipes packed with expert tips for success to make showstopping desserts and grow your confidence in the kitchen. In this episode, you’ll learn how stay positive and embrace unpredictability while overcoming severe challenges, like revenue loss, in your business, as this may lead to new opportunities. Key points discussed include: - Failure is not the end, but a stepping stone: Embrace failures as opportunities to learn, grow, and refine your business. - Be brutally honest with yourself: Critically examine your business to identify weaknesses and areas for improvement. - Have a long-term plan for delegation: Strategize how you can eventually offload tasks you don't enjoy to free up time for what you love. - Consume positive, motivational content: Start your day or week with uplifting podcasts, books, or speakers to maintain a growth mindset. - Actively participate in a supportive community: Attend events and connect with other bloggers to find inspiration, advice, and a sense of belonging. - Embrace the unpredictability of entrepreneurship: Understand that volatility in income and traffic is part of the journey, and focus on the opportunities it presents. - Persist with enthusiasm: Maintain your drive and determination, even when facing failure, as success often comes from stumbling forward with unwavering passion. If You Loved This Episode…
You’ll love Episode 402: Reach 85k Page Views in 7 Months After 7 Years of Failure with Maren Epstein. Resources Mentioned The Brendon Burchard Podcast: Hosted by Brendon Burchard, this motivational podcast offers personal growth advice and life coaching.
Good Work with Barrett Brooks: Hosted by Barrett Brooks, this podcast features interviews with founders, scientists, authors, and adventurers, discussing impactful work and leadership. Connect with Jules Grasekamp | |||
| 647: What To Expect If You Want to Start Over In a New Niche with Lisa Steele | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:43:12 | |
In episode 647, Lisa Steele teaches us how to make a drastic change to our niche and online presence like she did by going from lifestyle blogging to food content creation. Lisa Steele is an author, blogger and 5th generation chicken keeper living in Maine. She started her business more than 10 years ago and grew a successful "chicken lifestyle" blog called Fresh Eggs Daily. In 2022, Lisa got a cookbook deal with HarperCollins and that started her pivot to egg recipes and cooking. In this episode, you’ll learn about the challenges to expect when you start a new food blog, positioning yourself as an expert in your niche and how to successfully build a multifaceted online presence Key points discussed include: - Focus on your goals, not what others are doing: Determine your unique objectives and align your activities accordingly, rather than comparing yourself to other bloggers. - Streamline your activities ruthlessly: Regularly evaluate your tasks and drop anything that doesn't directly contribute to your goals, even if it's popular with others. - Develop a thick skin for criticism: Expect and be prepared to handle negative feedback, as it often comes with success. Don't take it personally. - Leverage your expertise and authority: Position yourself as the go-to expert in your niche, which can open up opportunities like media appearances and partnerships. - Prioritize engagement over follower count: Publishers are more interested in your ability to connect with and influence your audience than just the size of your following. - Recognize the long-term benefits of cookbooks: While the initial monetary rewards may not be as immediate as your blog, cookbooks can provide passive income and increased credibility over time. - Be prepared for the challenges: Understand that both food blogging and cookbook writing require significant time, effort, and resilience, but the rewards can be worth it if aligned with your goals. Guest Details Connect with Lisa Steele | |||
| 646: 5 Ways to Enter the New Year on a Positive Note (Mindset & Self-Care) | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:18:01 | |
In this episode, I share five practical strategies to help you start your year on the right foot and carry positivity throughout the months ahead. How’s your new year going so far? Are you still sticking to those New Year’s resolutions, or are a few starting to slip through the cracks? If they are, don’t stress—you’re definitely not alone! If overwhelm or negativity is creeping in, this episode is here to help you hit reset. I’ll share how a little intentional planning and some small, consistent actions can pave the way for a positive and fulfilling year. From practicing gratitude and reflecting on your progress to setting meaningful goals and visualizing your dreams, I’ve got strategies to keep you motivated and moving forward. Action Plan: 1 - Review and reflect on the previous year with a gratitude exercise. 2 - Make a list of things you're looking forward to in the coming year. 3 - Set goals for the year in various areas and review them weekly. 4 - Create a vision board. 5 - Commit to making one positive, permanent change each month. Get in touch with Megan below. | |||
| 645: How to Succeed as a New Blogger in 2025 (Part 2) with Ashley Freeman and Gwen Wolken | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:41:02 | |
In episode 645, Megan chats to bloggers, Ashley Freeman and Gwen Wolken, about how to achieve success as a new blogger. This is part 2 of the New Blogger conversations. Ashley is a seasoned culinary content creator with 11 years of experience who launched her blog, Little Black Skillet, at the end of 2023. Her journey began in the publishing world as a recipe developer, food stylist, and cookbook editor before transitioning to freelance. Ashley has served as the editor of over 40 cookbooks and has authored two of her own, including The Duke's Mayonnaise Cookbook, published in 2020. She also brought her culinary expertise to television, working as the head food stylist for seasons 1–4 and culinary producer for seasons 5–9 of the Food Network show Delicious Miss Brown. Gwen Wolken founded A Sweet Thyme to share her recipes with family and friends and to connect with others who love to cook. Today, the blog houses delicious and dependable Mediterranean recipes that are mostly gluten-free and simple to prepare. After spending time in corporate America, Gwen became an entrepreneur and had several businesses, but her favorite was a chocolate business that she nurtured for over ten years before creating A Sweet Thyme. Gwen is married and the Mom to three adult boys, two of which are married. In this episode, you’ll learn how to invest wisely in your blogging business when you're starting out and why networking can make a big difference to your blog’s growth trajectory. Key points discussed include: - Understand your audience: Regularly survey your audience to ensure your content aligns with their needs and interests. - Explore new content formats: Consider adding video content to your Pinterest strategy to diversify your offerings. - Evaluate your marketing efforts: Regularly assess the return on investment for your participation in Facebook recipe roundup groups. - Leverage organizational tools: Use tools like Reminders and spreadsheets to create a daily to-do list and stay organized. - Find your niche: Identify your unique strengths and passions, and let them shine through in your content. - Invest in your business: Be willing to spend money on hosting, themes, and other tools to improve your blog's performance. - Build a supportive community: Participate in mastermind groups and attend conferences to connect with like-minded bloggers. - Adapt to platform changes: Stay flexible and willing to adjust your strategies as platforms like Pinterest update their algorithms. - Embrace authenticity: Focus on creating content that aligns with your values and resonates with your audience, rather than chasing trends. Connect with Ashley Freeman Connect with Gwen Wolken | |||
| 644: How to Succeed as a New Blogger in 2025 (Part 1) with Kristina Cadelina, Rose Sioson & Mandy Martinez | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:40:53 | |
In episode 644, newer bloggers Kristina Cadelina, Rose Sioson and Mandy Martinez teach us how to start a successful blog in 2025. This is part 1 of the New Blogger conversations. Kristina is a food blogger who helps her readers reconnect with their wellness by offering nourishing and versatile Mediterranean inspired recipes. She is also a food photographer and helps brands and food bloggers grow their business by offering professional photography and video services. Rose is an experienced IT professional with over two decades in the field. Nearly a year ago, she launched Deliciously Rushed, a blog that blends her love for food with her need for a creative outlet, all while balancing a full-time job and family. Aware of her limited time, Rose strategically invested in courses to streamline her growth and minimize costly mistakes. Her primary goal for 2024 is to qualify for the Mediavine ad network, and she is currently on the verge of reaching the 50K session threshold needed to achieve it. Mandy is the photographer and recipe developer behind Semi Homemade Kitchen. Her passion lies in simplifying the art of cooking without sacrificing flavor. She believes that anyone, regardless of their cooking expertise, can whip up mouthwatering dishes. Using shortcuts like cake mixes, cookie mixes, pudding mix, premade pie crusts, biscuit dough, canned soups, pasta sauces, and more to make the cooking process accessible and enjoyable for everyone. In this episode, you’ll learn about the importance of niche and experimenting with different strategies, as well as how to pick seasonal content to boost your visibility. Key points discussed include: - Consistency is key: Maintaining consistent activity and content creation across platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, and Google is crucial for driving traffic and growth. - Experiment with different strategies: Try various tactics like video pins, animated pins, and keyword research tools to see what works best for your unique blog and audience. - Invest in yourself: Joining mastermind groups, taking courses, and outsourcing tasks can provide valuable insights and free up time to focus on core activities. - Leverage niche communities: Actively participating in relevant Facebook groups can be an effective way to drive immediate traffic and build relationships with your target audience. - Capitalize on seasonality: Aligning your content with popular seasonal trends, like holiday recipes or summer ice cream, can help boost your visibility and engagement. - Diversify your traffic sources: While Google traffic is valuable, don't rely solely on it - explore other platforms like Pinterest and social media to build a well-rounded traffic strategy. - Stay true to your niche: Focusing on content that aligns with your blog's core purpose and resonates with your target audience can lead to greater success. - Embrace an experimental mindset: Be willing to try new things, even if they don't work out initially, as it can lead to unexpected breakthroughs. - Leverage freelancing opportunities: Combining your blog with freelance work, such as photography or recipe development, can provide financial stability and creative fulfillment. Connect with Kristina Cadelina Connect with Rose Sioson Connect with Mandy Martinez | |||
| 643: 5 Things Not To Bring on Vacation as an Entrepreneur (Mindset & Self-Care) | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:20:36 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about five key things entrepreneurs should avoid bringing on vacation in order to truly disconnect and recharge. I get how hard it can be to fully step away from work, even when you know you need a break. From my own experiences, I’ll share some practical tips and strategies to help you protect your vacations and downtime. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a better handle on the mindset shifts and boundaries that’ll let you truly enjoy your time off. That way, you can come back feeling refreshed and ready to go—without the guilt or burnout. Taking the time to unplug is so important for your well-being and the long-term success of your business. Action Plan: 1 - Avoid unfinished to-do lists: They can cause mental clutter and keep you in work mode during vacation. 2 - Don’t bring business guilt: Reframe downtime as an investment in your creativity and productivity. 3 - Avoid digital leashes: Set specific tech boundaries and remove distracting apps to stay disconnected. 4 - Set clear expectations: Over-communicate your availability and boundaries to your team, clients, and audience. 5 - Resist work temptation: Commit to being fully present and trust the systems you've put in place. Get in touch with Megan: | |||
| 642: Strategies for Sustainable Content Creation - How to Avoid Burnout as a Creator and Business Owner with Bjork Ostrom | 20 Jan 2025 | 00:56:52 | |
In episode 642, Megan chats to Bjork Ostrom about how to protect your time and mental well-being as a creator and business owner, so you can continue producing your best work and building the business you desire. Bjork loves to find ways to maximize potential - of people, of technology, of life. His wife Lindsay started a food blog a few years ago and they decided to do just that - maximize its potential. They hope to share what they've learned with other food bloggers here on Food Blogger Pro. Bjork is a terrible chef. In this episode, you'll discover effective strategies to organize your workday for maximum focus and reduced mental clutter, while also uncovering ways to find deeper fulfillment in your work. Key points discussed include: - Purpose prevents burnout: Clearly define the purpose and mission behind your work to stay motivated and avoid burnout. - Recognize "enough": Determine what "enough" looks like for your business and personal life, and set boundaries accordingly. - Implement effective systems: Develop repeatable processes to manage tasks, priorities, and projects, keeping your brain uncluttered. - Practice self-care: Prioritize your mental and physical health, as your brain is the primary tool for your creative work. - Embrace imperfection: Accept that you'll never be "done" and that some level of imperfection is inevitable - focus on continuous improvement. - Seek alignment: Ensure your daily work aligns with your deeper purpose and brings you a sense of flow and fulfillment. - Set boundaries: Establish clear boundaries around technology, work hours, and other commitments to protect your time and energy. - Reflect and adjust: Regularly reflect on what's working and what needs to change, then make small, incremental adjustments. - Leverage support systems: Build a team or community that can provide a "fallback" when you need it, reducing stress. If You Loved This Episode…
Connect with Foodblogger Pro | |||
| 641: SEO Goals for 2025 - How to Adapt and Thrive in The Age of AI with Laura Arnold | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:44:30 | |
In episode 641, Laura Arnold teaches us how to set realistic goals for SEO in 2025, staying ahead of AI and algorithm changes. Laura Arnold is a New York City-based Emmy-Nominated Culinary Television Producer, Cookbook Consultant, and award-winning Content Creator with over a decade of experience. She currently is the Supervising Culinary Producer for Food Network’s The Kitchen, and has worked previously at ABC’s The Chew, DotDash Meredith, Good Housekeeping, Food52, kitchn.com, and with many more brands. After learning about SEO through several food clients and brands over the past several years, she kept hearing from clients that they wished a food media expert had an SEO consultancy. She then founded Dang Good Digital, her own SEO consulting business specifically for food creators and bloggers to help them grow their brands, sites, and social media exposure. In this episode, you’ll learn how to analyze your content and niche down to get more traction, why it’s worth investing in video, even if it's not perfect, and ways to build a strong community. Key points discussed include: - Niche down your content: Analyze your past year's performance to identify your content strengths and focus on building out those areas. - Experiment with content pillars: Try increasing content in your top-performing areas, like salads, while maintaining a balance of other recipe types. - Research keywords strategically: For newer bloggers, look for high-volume, low-competition keywords to target and build content around. - Adjust your publishing cadence: Aim for 5 new posts and 12 post updates per month, adjusting as needed based on your blog's size and goals. - Write with a conversational tone: Incorporate trigger words and a more personal approach when writing blog post introductions and meta descriptions. - Embrace video content: Experiment with creating simple video content to accompany your blog posts, even using a smartphone. - Build a community presence: Invest time in building a community on 2-3 platforms, such as Instagram and Facebook. - Expect SEO changes: Stay adaptable as search algorithms and AI continue to evolve, focusing on creating high-quality content. - Understand domain authority: While it's important, don't let a low domain authority discourage you, as newer bloggers can still achieve success. Connect with Laura Arnold | |||
| 640: 5 Ideas for Healthy Distractions (So You Stop Focusing on the Negative Stuff) (Mindset & Self-Care) | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:26:56 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about five healthy distractions that can help you stop focusing on negative thoughts and feelings. As a business owner, wife, and mom, I totally get how easy it is to fall into cycles of stress, overwhelm, and anxiety. I've been there myself—it's tough to climb out of those dark moments. That’s why I’m excited to share some super practical tips you can try in just five minutes to reset your mindset and recharge your energy. Whether you’re feeling a little off or spiraling into full-on stress mode, these simple distractions can help you get back on track. Action Plan: 1 - 5 minutes of moving your body: Engaging in a quick physical activity like dancing, walking, stretching, or strength training can shift your mood and focus. 2 - 5 minutes of creativity: Tapping into your creative side through doodling, writing, or making something can help you get out of a negative mindset. 3 - 5 minutes connecting with a loved one: Reaching out to someone you care about, whether through a text, call, or making plans, can provide a healthy distraction. 4 - 5 minutes of gratitude: Intentionally reflecting on things you're grateful for, either by writing a list or visualizing, can pull you out of a negative rut. 5 - 5 minutes of mindful breathing: Practicing deep, conscious breathing exercises can help calm your mind and body when you're feeling stressed or anxious. Get in touch with Megan: | |||
| 639: Avoid the Free Stuff Trap - How to Secure and Execute Well-Paying Brand Deals with Justin Moore | 13 Jan 2025 | 00:54:18 | |
In episode 639, Megan chats to Justin Moore about how to secure, price and carry out brand deals to generate consistent income using Moore’s eight-step process - “the sponsorship wheel framework”. Justin Moore is a Sponsorship Coach, author, and the founder of @CreatorWizard, a school & community that teaches you how to find & negotiate your dream brand partnerships so that you stop leaving thousands on the table. His latest book, "Sponsor Magnet," offers a succinct distillation of his ideas and frameworks for securing successful brand collaborations. Along with his wife April, he has been a full-time creator since 2014 and has personally made over $5M working with brands. He also ran an influencer marketing agency for 7 years that helped other creators earn millions more. Justin brings a very unique perspective because not only has he been a creator in the trenches doing sponsorships for years but by running an agency, he has insider knowledge behind how big brands choose which influencers to partner with and why they pass on others. Justin's mission is to enable creators big and small to land 1 million paid brand partnerships by 2032. In this episode, you’ll learn how to pitch effectively and build lasting relationships with the brands you admire and why it's essential to avoid exchanging work for free products. Key points discussed include: - Proactivity is key: You need to be proactive in your approach to sponsorships, not just reactive to brand inquiries. - Relationships matter: Building strong relationships with the humans behind the brands can lead to recurring partnerships. - Knowledge is power: Researching your audience's psychographics and the brand's needs can give you a competitive edge. - Avoid the free stuff trap: Be cautious when accepting free products, as there may be hidden terms that could harm your rights. - Negotiate platform terms: Brand deal platforms can be valuable, but you should negotiate the terms to protect your interests. - Showcase your professionalism: Delivering high-quality content on time and being responsive can make you a brand's favorite to work with. - Leverage post-campaign reports: Providing detailed post-campaign reports, including testimonials, can lead to repeat collaborations. - Manage your mindset: Approach sponsorship opportunities with a mindset of learning and growth, rather than fear or resentment. - Prioritize your own advocacy: Consider managing sponsorship opportunities in-house rather than relying solely on agents or managers. Connect with Justin Moore | |||
| 638: Achieve More with Less Stress and Reclaim Your Time - How to Master Productivity with Leslie Shreve | 09 Jan 2025 | 01:01:49 | |
In episode 638, Leslie Shreve teaches us strategies for increasing efficiency and reducing stress during our workdays. Leslie Shreve is a workload management and productivity expert, and the Founder and CEO of Productive Day®, which was established in 2003. Leslie is also the creator of Taskology® The Science of Getting Things Done, a unique, proprietary, and all-encompassing system for workload management and productivity that includes the management of tasks, time, email, information, and more. Leslie works with corporate executives and professionals to show them how to increase efficiency and productivity by up to 300% in as little as 4 weeks, gain 1-2 hours back in their workday—EVERY day, spend up to 50% LESS time in their email Inbox, and reduce stress by up to 90%. In this episode, you’ll learn how to centralize tasks using a digital system, how to create a streamlined process for email and information management and the importance of protected time blocks. Key points discussed include: - Centralize your tasks: Gather all your tasks from various sources (email, notes, calendar, etc.) into one central digital task list to improve planning and prioritization. - Protect your time: Block off dedicated time in your calendar each day for focused work on tasks and email management to avoid getting distracted. - Streamline your processes: Develop efficient systems for managing tasks, email, and information to save time and reduce stress. - Avoid paper-based task management: Using paper to track to-dos is less effective than a digital task management system. - Make quick decisions on emails: Process emails immediately and either take action, file, or delete them - don't let them accumulate in your inbox. - Categorize your digital files: Organize your documents, photos, and other digital assets into a structured folder system with main categories and subcategories. - Don't let your desktop accumulate: Build a habit of immediately filing or deleting temporary files like screenshots to prevent clutter. - Start small and work backwards: Even small improvements to your productivity processes can make a big difference. Connect with Leslie Shreve | |||
| 637: 5 Invitations To Extend For a Shift in Energy (Mindset & Self-Care) | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:22:25 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about five invitations that can help shift your energy and bring more positivity into your life, especially during challenging times. At the time of recording, I’ve been having one of those weeks where everything feels like it's falling apart. But I realized that in the midst of the chaos, I had forgotten to extend the simple invitations that have the power to shift my energy and bring in the good things I'm seeking. Whether it's inviting guidance from a higher power, support from trusted friends, or peace and rest for myself, these invitations can make all the difference. I encourage you to try extending these five invitations - they may just be the key to turning things around. Action Plan: 1 - Invitation for guidance: Extend an invitation for guidance from your higher power (universe, God, etc.) to find clarity and solutions. 2 - Invitation for support: Reach out to a trusted friend and extend an invitation for support when you're feeling stuck or overwhelmed. 3 - Invitation for peace and rest: Start your day by extending an invitation for peace and rest to yourself, as it is essential for resetting your energy and mindset. 4 - Invitation for celebration: Extend an invitation for celebration with others, even if you don't feel like you have a specific reason to celebrate. 5 - Invitation for opportunity and favor: Extend an invitation for opportunity and favor from the universe, shifting your focus from problems to possibilities. Get in touch with Megan if there is a specific mindset and self-care topic you'd like her to cover. | |||
| 636: Discover Your Dream Career - Turning Passion into Purpose and Breaking Free From The 9-to-5 with Madeline Anderson | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:49:32 | |
In episode 636, Megan chats to Madeline Anderson about transitioning from a 9-to-5 job to becoming your own boss and what matters more when choosing a career - pursuing your passion or making money? Madeline is the Author of Girl Dad and Founder of Girl Dad Network. She was born and raised in Southern California and graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles with a degree in Business Economics. She believes we should all leave the world a better place than we found it, which is why she created and advocates for Girl Dad Network. In this episode, you’ll learn how Madeline managed to balance her full-time job while building her side hustle, Girl Dad. She also shares insights into navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including overcoming isolation and handling financial uncertainty after becoming her own boss. Key points discussed include: - Leverage your unique background: Your upbringing and relationships can inspire you to create meaningful work that makes a difference. - Prioritize passion over profit: When starting a side hustle, focus on pursuing activities that truly excite and fulfill you, not just what seems lucrative. - Harness creative inspiration: Be open to spontaneous ideas, as they can lead you to discover your true calling and purpose. - Cultivate self-awareness: Regularly reflect on your skills, interests, and values to ensure your work aligns with who you are. - Experiment with different paths: Trying out various roles and experiences can help you identify the best fit for your long-term career goals. - Overcome obstacles with resilience: Challenges and setbacks, like being laid off, can often lead to unexpected breakthroughs if you approach them with an open mindset. - Embrace the entrepreneurial journey: Understand that building a successful business takes time, effort, and the willingness to navigate both the rewards and difficulties of self-employment. - Prioritize authenticity: In your work, strive to be true to yourself, as this will help you connect with the right audience and create meaningful impact. - Maintain a positive mindset: View obstacles as opportunities for growth, and approach your entrepreneurial endeavors with optimism and determination. If You Loved This Episode…You’ll love Episode 593: 3 Simple Ways to Successfully Blog Part-Time While Working Full-time with Kimberly Ho. Connect with Madeline Anderson | |||
| 635: How To Design a High-Converting Welcome Sequence For Food Bloggers (+Key Mistakes To Avoid) with Prerna Malik | 02 Jan 2025 | 00:44:24 | |
In episode 635, Prerna Malik teaches us how to create a welcome sequence to share content from our blog as well as sell digital products, like courses and ebooks, without being salesy or icky. Co-founder of Content Bistro and a Copyhackers-certified, conversion copywriter, Prerna is the sales strategist and copywriter behind multiple million-dollar launches and 6-figure evergreen sales funnels in niches as diverse as astrology and homesteading! She has written for iconic brands such as Pat Flynn, Amy Porterfield, Copyhackers, Vanessa Lau, Handle the Heat, School of Traditional Skills, and 1000s of others! She is also the creator of the strategy-focused sales copywriting program — Ready-to-Sell. Prerna and her co-founder-slash-husband, Mayank have built an intentionally profitable business while living in India and raising their daughter, Manini. In this episode, you’ll learn about how to sell in a way that you would want to be sold to, Prerna’s 6C framework for an effective welcome sequence, and why you should not use generic email templates. Key points discussed include: Avoid using generic, plug-and-play templates for your welcome sequence: Your welcome sequence should be personalized and reflective of your brand and connection with your audience. A welcome sequence is not just one email: It should be a series of emails that guide your new subscribers through getting to know you and your offerings. Connection-based welcome sequences work best for food bloggers: Lead with building a personal connection before asking for a sale. Sell in a way you'd want to be sold to: Avoid tactics that make you or your audience feel icky, like fake promises or guilt-tripping. Use the "6C" framework: Celebrate the sign-up, Connect with your audience, Cultivate community, Convert with a sales pitch, Connect again with social proof, and Close by preparing them for your regular emails. Space out your welcome emails: Send them one day apart to improve deliverability and engagement. Include a story, specific details, and your expertise ("3S") in each email: This makes the content more engaging and valuable. Vary your offers in the email signature/footer: This allows you to show relevant products to different segments of your audience. Pay close attention to your subject lines and preview text: These are crucial for getting your emails opened. Remember that "selling is serving": Your products and offerings are valuable, so don't be afraid to promote them to your audience. Connect with Prerna Malik | |||
| 634: 5 Steps to Goal Setting and Planning for the New Year (Mindset & Self-Care) | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:21:09 | |
In this episode, we're diving into why setting goals is key to creating the life we’ve always dreamed of—and how you can start today by planning for an amazing new year ahead. As an entrepreneur, I’ve seen just how life-changing goal setting and planning can be. Taking the time to figure out my “why,” look back on what worked (and what didn’t), and map out a solid plan for the year has helped me crush 90% of my big goals. In this episode, I’m breaking down the five steps that keep me focused, motivated, and moving toward making my dreams happen. Action Plan: 1 - Define your “why": Understand your deeper motivation for being an entrepreneur and keep this at the forefront. 2 - Reflect on the previous year: Review what worked and what didn't work to inform your goals and plans for the new year. 3 - Set clear goals, focuses, and projects for the coming year: Envision your ideal future and set specific, actionable goals to work towards. 4 - Identify upgrades to make: Make a list of small, daily improvements that can lead to significant changes over time. 5 - Create a detailed plan: Develop a 1-year plan, quarterly plans, and weekly action steps to stay on track and achieve your goals. Got a question or feedback? Get in touch with Megan! | |||
| 633: GA4, Technical SEO, and Site Performance - What You Need to Know for 2025 with Joe Rodichok | 30 Dec 2024 | 00:43:47 | |
In episode 633, Megan chats to Joe Rodichok about achieving website success in 2025, covering practical strategies for making GA4 analytics more accessible, enhancing technical SEO, and boosting site performance. Joe is the Co-Founder of Phynite Solutions with over 20 years in tech, including 15 years professionally in roles from engineer to Chief Technology Officer at start-ups and later with FAANG companies, solving complex challenges. I’m passionate about helping small business owners grow their websites through clear, straightforward support—something that’s personal to me as the son of two small business owners. My goal is simple: to help you succeed with no BS, just honest solutions. In this episode, you’ll learn about understanding GA4, how to simplify it with the tool Phynite Analytics, while also exploring strategies for monitoring core web vitals to enhance SEO and the impact of AI content scrapers. Key points discussed include: - Understand GA4's focus on ad spenders: Google's restructuring of Google Analytics is aimed at generating revenue from ad-spending customers, which impacts the data and functionality available to free users. - Leverage Phynite Analytics for simplified data access: Phynite Analytics curates your Google Analytics data in a user-friendly way, providing easy access to the metrics and insights that matter most to food bloggers. - Integrate Pinterest analytics for a holistic view: Phynite Analytics integrates with Pinterest's API to provide insights into your Pinterest performance, helping you optimize your content for that platform. - Monitor core web vitals to improve SEO: Staying on top of your website's core web vitals is crucial for maintaining good search engine rankings, and tools like Google Search Console can help you identify and address any issues. - Understand the impact of AI content scrapers: Be aware of the potential threat of AI-powered bots that may be scraping your content, and use tools like Cloudflare to manage and protect your site. - Optimize site speed with properly sized images: Ensuring your images are properly sized can have a significant impact on your website's performance and core web vital scores. - Take control of your online presence: Don't blindly follow advice or accept the status quo; instead, question and understand the strategies and tools you use to grow your food blog. - Diversify your traffic sources: Relying solely on Google for traffic can be risky, so explore and invest in other platforms, such as Pinterest, to build a more resilient and sustainable online presence. - Persevere through challenges: Even the most successful food bloggers face ups and downs, but with determination and a willingness to adapt, you can overcome obstacles and see your hard work pay off. Connect with Joe Rodichok | |||
| 632: How to Survive an IRS Audit and Which Red Flags to Look Out For with Ansley Beutler | 26 Dec 2024 | 00:48:23 | |
In episode 632, Ansley Beutler teaches us how to navigate the complexities of IRS audits as small business owners and how to recognise key red flags that might trigger an audit. Ansley launched her blog, The Fit Peach, in 2018, sharing simple, family-friendly recipes that prove healthy eating can be both delicious and approachable. Her passion for flavor-packed, wholesome meals quickly resonated with a growing community of home cooks and wellness-minded individuals. Building on her experience as a CPA and her firsthand knowledge of running a successful blog, Ansley founded Peach Perfect Financials—a boutique accounting firm dedicated to empowering creative entrepreneurs. Specializing in bloggers and content creators, her firm offers tailored financial services, including bookkeeping, tax planning, and retirement strategies. With a unique blend of professional expertise and industry insight, Ansley helps entrepreneurs navigate the financial challenges of self-employment, enabling them to focus on what they love: growing their business. In this episode, you’ll learn the importance of accurate bookkeeping and clear documentation, how to deal with the audit process itself, and strategies for effectively managing the emotional and logistical challenges that can arise. Key points discussed include: - Understand your NAICS code: The NAICS code is crucial in determining industry-specific expense and profit margin expectations from the IRS. Make sure you have the right code (711510 for bloggers/influencers) to avoid red flags. - Maintain a reasonable profit margin: The IRS looks for profit margins that are in line with industry standards. Consistently low or negative profit margins can raise questions. - Pay yourself a reasonable salary: If you have an S-corp, be sure to pay yourself a salary that is proportionate to your business's profitability to avoid potential issues. - Keep detailed bookkeeping records: Organized and well-documented financial records can make the audit process much smoother and demonstrate your commitment to compliance. - Cooperate and communicate proactively: If audited, be responsive to the IRS's requests and communicate openly about your business practices. This can go a long way in resolving any concerns. - Understand the emotional impact: Audits can be stressful and emotionally draining, so be prepared to manage your emotions and seek support if needed. Avoid lumping expenses into broad categories: Provide clear breakdowns and explanations for specific expense categories, as the IRS may scrutinize these closely. - Leverage your CPA's industry knowledge: Having a CPA who understands your business model and industry can help ensure proper expense reporting and minimize audit risks. - Focus on your "why": During challenging times, such as an audit, remember the reasons why you started your business and let that drive you forward. Connect with Ansley Beutler | |||
| 631: 5 Ways to Relieve Stress (Mindset & Self-Care) | 25 Dec 2024 | 00:20:03 | |
Merry Christmas! In this episode, we are going to talk about five effective strategies for relieving stress and managing the pressure that can build up in our lives as entrepreneurs. As an entrepreneur, I’ve learned that keeping stress in check and staying in a good headspace are game-changers—not just for my well-being, but for my business too. That’s why I’d like to share five strategies that have made a huge difference for me. Whether it’s getting better sleep, squeezing in some solid exercise, or practicing gratitude, these tips have helped me break the stress cycle, clear my mind, and tackle challenges with a more positive, resilient attitude. Action Plan: 1 - Prioritize sleep: Getting enough quality sleep is crucial for managing stress and maintaining overall well-being. 2 - Engage in vigorous exercise: Challenging your body through intense workouts can help complete stress cycles and release built-up pressure. 3 - Speak up and vent: Addressing thoughts and concerns directly, rather than letting them stew, can alleviate mental clutter and stress. 4 - Surround yourself with supportive people: Spending time with loved ones who make you laugh and feel understood can be a healthy distraction from stress. 5 - Practice gratitude: Taking time to reflect on and appreciate the positive aspects of your life can interrupt negative thought patterns and promote a more peaceful mindset. Get in touch with Megan | |||
| 630: Time-Management Strategies for Busy Bloggers - How to Thrive as A Blogger And Have Time for Your Family with Joanne Schweitzer | 23 Dec 2024 | 00:49:04 | |
In episode 630, Megan chats to Joanne Schweitzer about time management strategies to help us balance the demands of blogging with raising children and building a local brand. Joanne Schweitzer is a successful Italian heritage recipes food blogger and has been blogging part time for 8 years. She has 10K Facebook followers with a local following too and 14K Pinterest followers with 3K in loyal newsletter openers. Joanne’s tomato sauce and cocktails do best. She does local cooking shows specifically for how to make pasta that have been successful. In this episode, you’ll learn about outsourcing tasks, how to tap into your local network, why newsletters are so effective and how to build a successful blog while still having time for your family. Key points discussed include: - Focus on quality over quantity: Prioritize creating high-quality, authentic content rather than rushing to publish multiple posts per week. - Leverage your newsletter: Invest time in crafting a thoughtful weekly newsletter to build a loyal audience and community. - Tap into local networking: Seek out opportunities to host cooking demos and events in your local community to grow your brand. - Embrace flexibility in your workflow: Allow for spontaneity and don't be afraid to adapt your schedule as needed. - Outsource your weaknesses: Identify tasks you're not strong at and consider outsourcing them to free up time for your strengths. - Batch recipes with the same ingredients: Make two or more recipes that use the same ingredients like roasted tomatoes or sautéed scallops to save time and money when doing your blog photography. - Celebrate small wins: Recognize and appreciate the incremental progress you make, as these small victories can fuel your long-term success. - Cultivate authenticity: Be genuine in your interactions with your audience, and let your personality shine through. - Persist through imposter syndrome: Believe in your abilities and don't let self-doubt hold you back from achieving your goals. Connect with Joanne Schweitzer | |||
| 629: Secrets of Top Instagram Food Creators - Strategies to Build and Monetize Your Audience | 19 Dec 2024 | 00:40:00 | |
In episode 629, Kimberly Espinel teaches us strategies that top food content creators use to build and monetize their audiences on Instagram. Kimberly is an award winning photographer, best-selling author, creative business mentor and Instagram expert dedicated to empowering food bloggers, photographers and content creators to refine their skills, discover their unique style, and develop a social media strategy that works. In this episode, you’ll learn what is meant by ‘being authentic’, why you should prioritize video, understanding your audience, and incorporating a personal touch. Key points discussed include: - Embrace authenticity and vulnerability: Audiences are drawn to creators who share their personal stories and give them a sense of connection. - Prioritize video content: Focusing on reels, TikToks, and YouTube can help you reach and engage your audience more effectively. - Deeply understand your audience: Knowing your target customer's pain points and preferences will allow you to create content that resonates. - Incorporate a personal touch: Adding your own voice, music choices, or on-camera presence can make your content feel more human and relatable. - Adapt to changing trends: Be willing to evolve your strategies as platforms and algorithms shift, rather than clinging to what worked in the past. - Develop a pragmatic mindset: Approach your content creation with a business-minded perspective, and don't take setbacks too personally. - Focus on strong hooks: Crafting an engaging opening sequence for your reels can make all the difference in capturing your audience's attention. - Optimize your lighting: Ensuring proper lighting can elevate the production value of your video content and make it more visually appealing. - Leverage engagement tools strategically: Tools like ManyChat can help you drive traffic and build relationships with your audience. - Monetize through brand collaborations: Developing a strong video presence can make you an attractive partner for brands seeking influencer marketing opportunities. If You Loved This Episode
You’ll love our Instagram Growth Supercut - a short 15-minute episode sharing tips from food content creators crushing it on Instagram - Download it here. Order Kimberly's book - How to Make Your Food Famous Connect with Kimberly Espinel | |||
| 628: 5 Steps To Tweak Your Week (Mindset & Self-Care) | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:17:24 | |
In this episode, we're going to talk about 5 ways to optimize our week so that we can build our dream life. I’m always striving to create my dream week—a vision I hold onto and know I’ll achieve someday, even though it’s not quite here yet. In the meantime, I regularly adjust my schedule to ensure I’m moving in the right direction. When I notice my work-life balance slipping, I make small tweaks to realign, like aiming to keep my workweek under 20 hours. The secret to building your ideal schedule lies in taking it one step at a time with consistent, intentional adjustments. Each week, ask yourself: What’s working? What’s not? Without this reflection, it’s easy to fall into a rut and lose excitement about your week. Here’s how I approach it. Action Plan: 1 - Do a time audit: Tracking how you spend your time for 3-7 days can provide valuable insights to identify areas for improvement. 2 - Look for easy wins: Implement small, impactful changes like meal prepping or delegating tasks to optimize your week. 3 - Set boundaries: Define and commit to one or two boundaries, such as a hard cut-off time, to better separate work and personal life. 4 - Tackle important tasks first: "Eat your frog" by completing a high-priority task before moving on to other items on your to-do list. 5 - Reflect and reset weekly: Spend 10-15 minutes reviewing your week to celebrate wins and identify one small change for the next week. Get in touch with Megan | |||