#818 I did it this time. I finally cracked the code on Shorts and boiled my approach down to a simple formula. A month after starting from scratch, I'm only putting in fifteen minutes of work per day and getting millions of views! With a fresh understanding of what viewers want, my results are huge! In fact, I already have over 100K subscribers and am eligible for monetization on YouTube. You know I love Pokémon, so I started a new channel in the niche for this experiment at Short Pocket Monster. With no promotion, I published videos daily and let the algorithm do its magic. So why am I seeing such massive numbers this time? It turns out, the key is creating bingeable content. Listen in on today's episode to hear exactly what I'm doing and how you can replicate my success! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session818.

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#817 The easier you make it for readers to unsubscribe, the more effective your emails will be! Because this is counterintuitive, many of us land in people's spam folders without knowing it. But here's the good news—a joint announcement from Google and Yahoo has shed light on the best practices that get our emails in front of more people. Join me and my expert guest, MV Braverman of Inbox Welcome, to learn more! So, what are the recent changes you need to know about? How do you set up your emails to avoid getting blacklisted? What are the tools that help you understand why you're not getting the results you want? MV does an incredible job of breaking down the technical aspects that play a huge role behind the scenes. We talk about authenticating your emails, using Google's Postmaster Tools, avoiding block lists, and setting up new domain names. Listen in! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session817.

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#808 You have to choose. Like most people, you can give up control of your time and attention to others. That's the default in today's world, but it's unlikely to put you on a path toward your goals. To succeed, you must make a different decision. You have to resist the things that break your focus and take control of your life. You have to be indistractable! This roundtable with author Nir Eyal and my business partner Matt Gartland is one of the most powerful discussions I've had on the podcast all year. Please listen in because the actionable tips shared today on managing your time are legit game-changers! We examine the lessons from Nir's latest book, Indistractable, and discuss willpower, scheduling, accountability, and even planned spontaneity. If your schedule is not aligned with your values and dreams, or even if you're too distracted by your smartphone, listen in to unlock your life! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session808.

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#718 The strategy I share today will help you at any level, no matter what niche you're in. There's another bonus—this tactic also makes the world a better place. So what is it? Tune in because we explore the benefits of forming relationships with the up-and-comers in your space. I've been doing this with Deep Pocket Monster, my Pokémon YouTube channel, and the results have been amazing! Some of the smaller creators I've helped get a leg up are now on an incredible trajectory. While it might seem like this creates more competition for me, the truth is that these are now supportive friendships that lead to more growth for everybody. The key word here is abundance. Creating a brand is not a zero-sum game where someone else's success comes at your expense. So, who are the up-and-comers in your niche and how do you create mutually beneficial relationships with them? Listen in on today's episode to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session718.

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#717 You can't know which of your ideas will take off before you try some of them. That's why taking asymmetrical risks, where the potential upside is much greater than your investment, is essential to get ahead today. But how do you apply this on your path to success, and what are the outdated rules you should break along the way? In this episode, Chris Guillebeau of The Art of Non-Conformity shares an inside look at his new book, Gonzo Capitalism: How to Make Money in An Economy That Hates You. I'm excited to have him back on the show because his experience in the online space is incredible! So, how do you succeed even when the odds are stacked against you? We cover a lot of ground in this session to answer that. Chris and I discuss building hybrid communities that function online and offline, monetizing your skill set, creating in the age of AI, event planning, and more. Listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session717.

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#716 I bought the equipment to start a podcast in 2008—but I was scared. In fact, putting my voice out there was so frightening that I didn't publish anything until 2010. But it wasn't long before I realized this show would become something special. Today, I want to take you back to that life-changing moment. Tune in because this session highlights why now is still a great time to create a new show around your brand! And with YouTube becoming a big player in the space, podcast discovery is about to change forever! That's why we added a video module to the upcoming Power-Up Podcasting 3.0. This newly overhauled version of our flagship course is the step-by-step solution you need to launch a successful show that gets found and grows your business! So check out SPI's All-Access Pass to unlock our community-powered course library! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session716.

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#715 Confidence is the action you take in the face of fear and uncertainty. If you're building a business, playing it safe can only get you so far. Instead, you need to build up the courage to swing for the fences! In this episode, Julie DeLucca-Collins of Go Confidently Coaching shares her expertise to help you find and achieve your version of success. She and I will walk you through the mindset and behaviors to help you check off your biggest goals! Julie also shares news of her upcoming TEDx talk. She gives us an inside look at the extensive process of applying, auditioning, and preparing for this event. So, what does it take to land a TEDx talk? How do you use your core values to move toward your goals? Why should you embrace failure as a necessary step? We discuss all this in today's perspective-shifting chat with Julie. Listen in for a serious dose of inspiration! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session715.

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#714 I'm very disappointed in myself. You see, these last few years, I've achieved a lot with SPI and Deep Pocket Monster, my Pokémon YouTube channel. But at what cost? Here's the thing—I've been neglecting my health for too long. Eating well and exercising have slipped through the cracks, and I've just received some scary test results to reflect that. This is a different kind of episode, but listen in because my personal update might be the wake-up call you need to get your priorities in order. I'll share the results from my DEXA scan and discuss the steps I've taken to start regaining my health and vitality. I already feel better than I have in a long, long time! So, join me for today's session about health and the entrepreneurial journey to learn more. If we don't care for ourselves, we can't serve others. Listen in and take action! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session714.

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#713 Hustle culture has tricked many of us into sacrificing our personal lives for financial success. But does building a brand have to be difficult? Instead, what would our journey look like if it were easy? Today's conversation with Deanna Cooper Gillingham will blow your mind! She helps case managers in the healthcare industry grow in their profession through education and training. Her trajectory actually mirrors my own Green Exam Academy story. In fact, the book she self-published to help people in her niche pass an exam has now generated over a million dollars in profit! In this episode, we look at how Deanna pulled it off! She started from scratch with no audience and is now playing in the big leagues while traveling the world full-time. We dissect the essential systems that support her lifestyle, discuss mentorship, events, and public speaking, and get a glimpse at her community of superfans. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session713.

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#712 Many of the highest performers, the people we often try to emulate, are actually miserable. You see, there are trade-offs in chasing extraordinary success that may not appeal to us once we understand what they are. So where's the sweet spot? How do we build a business we're proud of without sacrificing everything else in the process? Here's the thing—most people find incredible fulfillment in operating at a level of mastery in a small niche. This creator economy middle class is the topic of today's fantastic discussion between Terry Rice, Jason Feifer, Matt Gartland, and me. In this roundtable session, we help you define your version of success and discover the mindset to help you achieve it. We also arm you with the most impactful tools we're using right now and share a reading list to inspire you and shift your perspective. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session712.

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#711 Running a service-based business is something we don't often talk about here. Our focus is usually on passive income streams that can scale and create more free time for us. But is there a way to apply our mindset to services and unlock a hidden revenue source? You bet, and that's exactly what we talk about in today's game-changing episode! My expert guest, Chase Buckner, will absolutely blow your mind! He is the Director of Marketing at HighLevel, a suite of incredibly powerful white-label software tools you can pick and choose from and resell to your clients as a subscription. With no coding required, you can tap into the profitable SaaS model and create passive recurring revenue! Chase and I dive into specific use cases to inspire you because this can be the strategy that finally helps you stop trading time for money. Go to SmartPassiveIncome.com/highlevel to get started with a 30-day trial! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session711.

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#710 Hot take—the true mark of creators with a serve-first mindset is the excitement they feel when someone they've helped gets a win! If we're not jazzed when somebody in our community hits a milestone, what are we working toward? Are we even in it for the right reasons? Celebrating wins is a huge part of SPI Pro, and we often have our incredible members showcase their expertise by hosting Teaching Friday episodes of this podcast. For instance, our recent sessions with Gillian Tietz and Benjamin Yeh uncover incredibly effective audience growth and networking tactics. Tune in if you haven't already! So how are you celebrating your audience? Listen in on this episode for more about how and where to start. Don't miss out because this is one of the great joys of being a creator! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session710.

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#709 The power of in-person events is like nothing else we can offer an audience. So why do we often let fear and doubt stop us from bringing our people together? Here's the easy way to overcome uncertainty—if you've never hosted anything, just start small! In this episode, I'm excited to have Dan Franks share his expertise and help us foster real-life connections through incredible events at any point in our journey. He is the co-founder of Podcast Movement, the world's largest conference for podcasters. Dan and I have also been working side-by-side on Card Party, my first event in the Pokémon space! So how do you host your first meetup and avoid beginner mistakes that could cost you a lot of money? We cover that in today's session and give you a behind-the-scenes look at Card Party and Podcast Movement for an extra dose of inspiration. Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session709.

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#807 If we want to stay relevant as online creators, we have to keep reinventing ourselves! But how do we track the most effective tactics and strategies as they come and go? With limited time on our hands, where should we invest our attention? My incredible guest, Eric Siu of Single Grain, is the perfect person to deliver insights on where things are going. He is a prolific entrepreneur, marketer, and podcaster with extensive content and business knowledge. Just listen in on our chat to hear what I'm talking about! Today's wide-ranging discussion covers everything from using a Community tab trick to boost your YouTube views to personal branding in a world of AI agents. We get into why some interview podcasts are dipping in popularity and share a look at what's next in the space. Don't miss this fascinating conversation to find out where you should focus your energy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session807.

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#708 I'm challenging you with a simple but very important question—do you know what's happening? When people are on your landing page or going through your sales process, do you understand why you're getting fewer conversions than expected? Are you offering an optimal experience, or are you still winging it? For many years, I didn't know what was happening. Sure, SPI was growing, but where our sales were coming from exactly was a mystery. That's all changing as the team and I now obsess over every aspect of our marketing. So, in this episode, I share some valuable tactics to help you optimize your customer experience and make more sales! Here's the thing. If we never look behind the scenes, we can't uncover the small elements that add up to make all the difference in our success. So, do you know what's happening? Join me for today's session to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session708.

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#707 Starting a niche website is one of the best ways to generate income online. That said, it can often take months or years to get the results you want. But what if you could skip that part and jump in when your brand is already established and bringing in profit? That's the strategy I explore in today's incredible chat with Jared Bauman of 201 Creative and Weekend Growth. Jared is an expert at buying and flipping websites, and the insights he shares here make this tactic accessible to everyone and at every level. We discuss the step-by-step process Jared used to grow a website from $2k to $10k per month in profit. This is a fantastic case study because we explore everything from the initial research and negotiation phase to then supercharging the site with powerful monetization tools. Don't miss out, listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session707.

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#706 I'm calling you out—I bet you're so focused on your own journey that you haven't bothered to notice the small players in your niche doing amazing things. But what would happen if you stepped up to give them the recognition they deserve? How would fostering these relationships help everyone grow? While others chase inaccessible industry leaders, joining forces with lesser-known creators in your space can propel you to the top. In this episode, I share my experience using this strategy for my recent Pokémon live event. You see, smaller YouTubers drove more excitement for Card Party than anyone else! In entrepreneurship, Lewis Howes and John Lee Dumas come to mind as highly successful people I was happy to support from the get-go. That has led to incredible friendships I know I can always count on. So how do you form bonds like these? Listen in on today's session to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session706.

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#705 Too often, creators focus on profit instead of the value they provide. So what is the first step toward building a successful business? It's making sure your products actually work and proving it! My returning guest, Mark Wills, is a perfect example of applying a serve-first mindset to entrepreneurship. He and his business partner Roman run Loan Signing System, the largest notary coaching business in the US. In episode 303, we heard how they used strategies from my book Will It Fly to build their incredible six-figure business. Mark's enthusiasm is just as infectious in today's high-energy chat. We talk about why community and authenticity are vital in the age of AI, how to run a hands-on business that can scale, the importance of social proof and gathering effective testimonials, the 5+1 email marketing strategy, and more. So how do you achieve massive success without compromising your desire to help others? Tune in to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session705.

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#704 Live streaming is one of the best ways to connect with your audience. It's also probably the fastest route to growing as a communicator. So how do you step out of your comfort zone and start doing it? Wednesday's episode with Emily D. Baker reminded me just how powerful this tool can be. You might also remember that I went live on YouTube every day for a whole year during the pandemic. I'm so grateful I committed to that because the lessons learned have influenced everything I've done since. In this episode, I want to share that knowledge to help you get into streaming with the right mindset and tools to succeed. I talk about how to prepare in advance so you always have something to say, the common mistakes to avoid, engaging a live audience, building a story bank, and more. Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session704.

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#703 Claiming fair use is not a magic wand you can wave to stop people from suing you. In fact, even if you're in the right, you can still get dragged into legal procedures that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. So, how do you use copyrighted material in your content without getting in trouble? That's what we cover in this chat with the internet's favorite legal analyst, Emily D. Baker. Tune in because she helps us understand the fair use system and work within it to put ourselves in the safest position when using other people's videos, photos, music, and more. We also dive into monetizing content you don't own and what to do when someone copies your original work. If you've listened in on my previous talk with Emily in episode 621, you know she puts a fun twist on topics that can often be dry or overwhelming. So join us for this awesome educational opportunity! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session703.

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#702 Being a creator of any kind can be frustrating. We work hard on something, put it out there, and then… radio silence. The project we've poured our time and money into falls flat, and we never find out why. That's because we can't read the label when we're inside the bottle! This is something I say all the time because it's such an essential part of success. So how do you get eyeballs on your content early and collect information to make it better? In this episode, I share a sneak peek at the feedback-powered system I use on my Pokémon YouTube channel, Deep Pocket Monster, to create videos that get millions of views. I also talk about the features we've built into SPI Pro to help our members get similar results. Finding "label readers" for an outside perspective can grow your brand like nothing else. So listen in to learn how to get started! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session702.

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#701 Entrepreneurs without programming knowledge tend to dismiss software-based businesses as too complex. Courses and other digital products are often seen as more accessible. But here's the thing—creating digital tools to serve your audience is easier than you think! Spencer Haws, today's returning guest, hasn't been on the show since episode 066. That was over ten years ago! He still runs an incredible blog at NichePursuits.com and has built and sold several thriving software businesses with no coding experience! In this episode, Spencer brings us up to date on his journey. We hear about his niche sites and get an inside look at his latest venture, Link Whisper—a WordPress plugin that makes internal linking faster and more effective. This fascinating chat covers everything from interviewing potential customers for successful product creation to selling a business for massive profit! Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session701.

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#700 Wow, we're celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Smart Passive Income Podcast! That's absolutely ridonkulous! Whether this is the first episode you're tuning in for or the 700th, I appreciate you for being here! So what have I learned working on the show for so long? In this session, I share my most important mindset shift for fast growth. You see, a book I'm reading nowadays, 10x Is Easier Than 2x, has reminded me of a powerful story from my architecture days. This perfectly illustrates the path to quick gains I've applied to every aspect of my business and life. Skyrocketing your skill level and growing your business is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and focusing on the things that can move the needle for you in a big way. So listen in on this episode to learn more. And again, thank you for sticking with us for so many years! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session700.

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#699 When your business is optimized, you hit a button, and money happens. That said, many entrepreneurs make mistakes that stop them from reaching that level. I'm no different, and it really hurt when today's guest made me realize that. Matt Giovanisci is a classic example of finding riches in the niches with his work at Swim University and Money Lab. In this episode, he returns to the show for a powerful deep dive into the entrepreneurial mindset. You see, the knowledge he shares on Twitter really hit home with me. I had to invite him on the show to go tweet by tweet with us and expand on the vital concepts that can make or break our businesses. This is a wide-ranging discussion about filtering and prioritizing your ideas, building an ATM-like email list, simplifying your marketing, short-form versus long-form content, and even lip-syncing! Today's session will be a game-changer for many listeners, so don't miss out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session699.

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#806 "If you build it, they will come." You've heard it a lot, but don't apply this movie quote to your online business. Instead, gather as big an audience as possible around your mission before launching anything! Of course, I know you're saying this is easier said than done. So, what are the actual steps you can take to build up your following if you're starting from scratch? Listen in on today's coaching call with Krystle Krueger of YourFashionIsArt.com to hear my advice for someone in this exact position! There's a lot of noise out there, so stories and brand culture should be essential parts of your marketing strategy. We dive into that and then discuss the best ways to get in front of new audiences starting with the relationships you might already have. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session806.

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#698 Card Party, my three-day live event in the Pokémon space, is over. With half a million dollars at stake, it's hard to believe the fear I felt is now behind me. I'm exhausted, but I couldn't be happier with how it all turned out! If you've been following my Deep Pocket Monster journey, you know how much I value the fantastic community we've built on YouTube. In previous episodes, I talked all about how we designed Card Party as a celebration of that. I'm now happy to share the lessons learned from our massive success! The response from attendees, creators, sponsors, and vendors, has been incredible. In fact, we've already sold hundreds of tickets for next year's event! So listen in to hear all about how we created an amazing experience and delivered unforgettable moments with our first edition of Card Party! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session698.

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#697 The transformational power of online communities is no joke. Still, many entrepreneurs overcomplicate things and drag their feet on launching a membership. What, then, is the easiest way to get started right now? Today's special guest, Heather Lynn Angel, is someone whose trajectory I highly encourage you to replicate. You see, the value she has provided as a member of our SPI Pro community is insane. We recognized that and couldn't pass on the opportunity to hire her! Heather and I discuss all that today as we dive deep into building a thriving digital space for your audience. As a community strategist, Heather is a fantastic resource. In this episode, she shares the baseline requirements for successful membership businesses and walks us through every step, from platform choice to next-level member engagement and retention. We cover all the bases to save you from procrastination and get you going ASAP. So listen in and take action! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session697.

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#696 When you agree to disagree with someone, you're just avoiding the issue. But there's a better and more productive way to handle conflict. At SPI, we disagree and commit. My great friend and business partner, Matt Gartland, taught me this when we started working together. It's been an absolute game-changer ever since! In this episode, I explore the benefits of this powerful mindset and share the methods we use to implement it. That said, this approach felt counterintuitive at first. If you're anything like me, you prefer to avoid endless fighting. Agreeing to disagree is the civilized way to move on, right? But does that ever solve anything? In fact, many of our most popular products wouldn't exist if we didn't commit despite having doubts. Our fantastic Unstuck newsletter is just one example. So listen in on today's session to learn how to use this mindset shift for incredible results! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session696.

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#695 You go through a honeymoon phase with every person in your life. Business partners, co-workers, and clients are no exception. Of course, these connections are critical to your success as an entrepreneur! So what can you do to keep the spark alive in the boardroom and maintain the best possible version of your working relationships? Joining me today is Michael Bungay Stanier, bestselling author of The Coaching Habit. This favorite of mine has massively impacted how we do business at SPI. His new book, How to Work with (Almost) Anyone, uncovers the one essential conversation and five powerful questions to help you master relationship-building. Today, Michael shares why your most successful connections should be safe, vital, and repairable. He and I explore the value of knowing yourself, the signals to break off unhealthy relationships, and screwing up as a way to increase customer loyalty. Tune in because Michael's advice will supercharge your communication skills! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session695.

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#694 What is the experience you create for your audience? How do you imagine people reacting to your products? What do your ideal reviews and testimonials sound like? Now more than ever, I'm obsessing over these questions because my first in-person event in the Pokémon space is just two weeks away. You see, even with ticket sales going very well and many sponsors supporting us, we might still lose a lot of money on this first event. But that's okay! My main goal with Card Party is to deliver unforgettable moments for our attendees and celebrate this incredible community in a unique way. But, while that's happening behind the scenes, detractors have been popping up online. Tune in to find out how I'm handling these people and why I can't wait for their honest reviews after the event! Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session694.

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#693 How do you build a side hustle that can replace your job in under a year? How do you go from earning $300 to $12,000 per month online? How do you create a profitable passive income business designing, selling, and shipping physical products? Today, we get an inside look at a print-on-demand business that generates incredible revenue. But that's not all. The best part is that this online store runs on just six hours of work per week! Joining me for this chat is the wonderful Christina Umerez. She is an entrepreneur and online business content creator who runs a hugely successful Etsy store. We discuss finding a profitable niche, creating successful designs with AI, positioning and promoting your products for massive sales, the easiest print-on-demand platforms to use, and much more. Today's episode is an in-depth blueprint you can follow to start generating income online immediately. Tune in and take action! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session693.

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#692 I always say the riches are in the niches, but that's not what this episode is about. You see, you can still make the mistake of growing too big too fast, even if you're operating in a super niched-down space. Why is that? It's because bigger truly isn't always better. When we start our entrepreneurial journey, many of us want to become as successful as possible and as rich as possible. But here's the thing. A small business can be optimized and refined to help us reach our exact economic goals! So why take on extra work that isn't aligned with your mission? Why go down a path that can distract you from the vision you have for yourself and your family? Listen in on this session because I want to shock you back on track today. So tune in for a perspective shift to help you understand your journey and enjoy success along the way! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session692.

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#691 If your business doesn't bring in enough cash, you can't help anyone. So how do you reverse engineer a big economic objective and build a profitable company around it? I'm very excited because returning to the show today is none other than Donald Miller, bestselling author of Building a StoryBrand. His book is one of my favorites of all time and one I'm always recommending here on the podcast. Donald is back to introduce us to his new book, How to Grow Your Small Business, his six-part framework to succeed and reach your financial goals! This interview highlights the vital aspects that determine the growth of your brand. We discuss everything from scaling a business with the right systems in place to the crucial principle of effective marketing. Donald also shares insights into hiring the right people to uplevel your company and mastering leadership. Listen in on this powerful conversation, and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session691.

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#690 These two free opportunities we offer at SPI have already served a massive number of entrepreneurs. If you're not taking advantage of them, you're missing out! You see, networking with people on the same path is vital for the success of your business. To help you scale your brand, the SPI team and I host free monthly meetups at SmartPassiveIncome.com/events. This is your shot to learn directly from us and to form relationships with the entrepreneurs who will support your growth. Listen in on this session to learn how to make the most of these events! The other opportunity I talk about today is my Unstuck newsletter. The response to the weekly stories and lessons I send out has been phenomenal! These are the moments that have shaped me as a person and entrepreneur that are now helping our subscribers change their lives! If you haven't already, join me at SmartPassiveIncome.com/unstuck! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session690.

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#689 Many businesses rely on advertising to reach new audiences. But what if instead of paying for sponsored posts on Facebook or Instagram, you could invest in creators like you? On the flip side, what if you could earn real money promoting the content you love? The world of email has stagnated lately, but a new launch from ConvertKit is about to change that in a big way! Today, you'll hear all about The Creator Network, which will help you find engaged followers in your niche without using any social media platforms. Listen in because ConvertKit founder Nathan Barry is here to walk us through this game-changing feature for newsletter growth, monetization, and more! The possibilities are mind-blowing, so you'll hear my gears turning throughout this whole session. You'll also hear Nathan sharing examples from other creators using this strategy to supercharge their email lists and create highly profitable feedback loops. You can leverage The Creator Network at any level, so don't miss out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session689.

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#805 Even if you're working solo, going from freelancer to business owner is a powerful mindset shift you can make right now. In fact, just seeing yourself in this new light is enough to unlock opportunities and allow you to charge more for the services you're offering! Today's guest, Hope Trory, is the perfect example of someone who has leveraged this perspective trick to level up. Like me, she had to give up on an architecture career to follow her true calling. Now, Hope is an online marketing pro helping her clients build lead-generation systems that bring in more business and free up time for meaningful work. Listen in for Hope's story and our tips for overcoming the sunk cost fallacy, finding your niche, and becoming the expert your clients need! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session805.

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#688 I'm getting those feelings again. Self-doubt, fear of humiliation, questioning why I'm even putting myself through this—and it's been the same every time! No matter if it was starting my business and podcast, speaking on stages, writing books, selling courses, or building a community—I always felt like this at pivotal moments in my life. So what is it this time? When this episode comes out, my first Pokémon live event will be in full swing in Anaheim! CARD PARTY is a massive project, so I want to take a moment to share my thoughts as I record this session a month in advance. With fifteen hundred tickets sold and some of the top Pokémon creators participating, the pressure is on to deliver three unforgettable days. Listen in on my quick update to learn how I'm making CARD PARTY happen and why this has the potential to be a great success! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session688.

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#687 Established podcasters are earning millions of dollars in sponsorships every year. My great friend and guest, John Lee Dumas, is one of them. But, with almost four thousand episodes of Entrepreneurs on Fire under his belt, would he even recommend podcasting to grow a business in 2023? Listen in on today's episode because JLD delivers a reality check like no other. His show has amassed over one hundred and forty million downloads, but he's the first to point out that new podcasters are facing an uphill battle. That said, the advice JLD shares in our chat will help you stand out and succeed in any crowded niche! We cover a lot of ground in this incredible conversation. JLD gives us a special inside look at his four-and-a-half-hour workweek and the strategies that help him maintain his free time. We also discuss everything from wealth management and investing to preparing for the worst-case scenario. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session687.

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#686 Your network is your net worth. That is to say, who you choose to surround yourself with can either support your growth or deplete your energy. So, when was the last time you received a warm lead or referral from your network? When was the last time you extended an opportunity to a friend? This fantastic Teaching Friday session with our guest host Benjamin Yeh will reveal the secret to building impactful relationships and help you connect with the right people in your niche. Tune in to get Benjamin's 5WG framework for meaningful conversations, the top questions to ask when meeting someone new, advice on the relationships you should avoid, and more! I'm always floored by the tips and strategies our SPI Pro members share when they take over the show. This episode is no exception! Download the resources to support you in implementing the techniques discussed today at BenjaminYeh.com/spi. Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session686.

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#685 Why is it that most people never reach their goals? You see, we all know about the importance of physical fitness. Mental strength, however, is often ignored. That's a problem because our mindset is the number one thing that can propel us forward or hold us back! That's why I had to invite my friend Sagi Shrieber back on the show to share a heavy dose of motivation. This chat perfectly illustrates the timeline of success and gives you the tools you need to take action with the right vision in place. We first heard from Sagi in episode 326. That's when we found out how he bailed his business out of debt by transforming his mindset. This session builds on that conversation to help you supercharge your confidence, develop a long-term vision, and handle setbacks with grace. Listen in because Sagi's strategies will shift your perspective and help you get better results in life and business! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session685.

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#684 Content overload is the new normal, so how do we regain control over what we consume and how we learn? This is such an important topic that I'm writing a whole book about it! While Lean Learning is only coming out in 2024 or 2025, I still want to share my strategies to help you right now. Navigating the information buffet can be tricky, so listen in on this episode to find out about the habits I've cultivated to help me stay focused! Here's the thing, though. The big lesson I share today has very little to do with productivity hacks and everything to do with your mission. You see, when you understand the impact of your work and truly believe you're helping people, eliminating distractions is a breeze. That flow state is the key to unlocking your potential and ability to pursue goals, even without a lot of free time! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session684.

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#683 Fear is often the biggest thing holding us back. So how do we neutralize its power over us? What can we do to stop it from manifesting as procrastination and perfectionism? How do we come to terms with uncertainty and move toward success? We tackle all that in this incredible episode with my guest, Dr. Corey Wilks, Psy.D. This session is an absolute masterclass on conquering fear and transforming your mindset! Dr. Wilks is a clinical psychologist and entrepreneur specializing in helping creators reach their potential. This conversation is a deep dive into everything from defeating the Four Horsemen of Fear — failure, uncertainty, ridicule, and success — to using psychology to price your products and deal with trolls and haters. My chat with Dr. Wilks will blow your mind and rewire it to help you reach your most ambitious goals, so don't miss out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session683.

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#682 If you're trying to build a brand using short-form videos, I'm worried about you. This goes against most of the advice you'll hear, but I'm taking a stand because long-form content is a much better way to build a loyal audience. In this session, I want to walk you through the thought process and experiences that have led to this conclusion. In fact, I recently spoke on stage at Social Media Marketing World on this topic, and the feedback has been incredible. You see, Shorts are a lot like eating snacks that ultimately leave you unsatisfied. Is that what we want to provide as content creators? I want to be the chef at a restaurant where you sit down for an unforgettable experience. That's what future superfans are more attracted to! So join me today as I make the case for long-form content at a time when everyone else is falling short! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session682.

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#681 Without building a community around your brand, you'll be left behind. That's the flag I'm planting in the ground, the line I'm drawing in the sand. But, for your business, what exactly is the role and value of bringing people together? Today, I'm exploring this topic with my guests Chris Miles and Danielle Hollembaek from Money Ripples. You see, they recently hired SPI CEO Matt Gartland and me to help them build their community. We want to share this process with you because the benefits for their company are already becoming apparent. Chris, Danielle, and I will discuss every step of this journey, from setting up a Circle community to creating an engaging space that people come back to again and again. This is a great episode for anyone looking to build a community-powered business! And, if this chat inspires you, check out our community help page to learn more about starting and running a membership business! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session681.

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#680 With AI leveling the playing field, just having the information people look for won't help you build a brand. For the modern entrepreneur, standing out is all about bringing people together and creating a sense of belonging. I use this exact approach to grow Deep Pocket Monster, my Pokémon YouTube channel. In fact, there's a particular tool that has proven to be especially good at helping me foster a sense of community. I won't keep you guessing. The tool I'm referring to is a dish rag. That's right—just a plain, old dish rag. Listen in on this session to hear how a random moment from one of my videos has become a powerful inside joke. It is now not only helping me connect with my audience but also opening up incredible merchandising opportunities! Tune in to get this vital audience engagement lesson and join us at SmartPassiveIncome.com/communityhelp to start building your community today! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session680.

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#679 There's a way to conceptualize your work-life balance as a stove with four burners: family, friends, health, and work. To succeed at any one thing, you have to turn off at least one of the other burners. If you want to excel at something, you have to turn off two. With that in mind, what is the best way to build a business without losing your health and relationships? My friend Steve Chou of MyWifeQuitHerJob.com is back on the show to share his powerful message and strategies with us. His book, The Family First Entrepreneur, is an incredible guide for achieving financial freedom without sacrificing what matters most. Today, we learn all about it! Steve and I explore time management, ecommerce, evergreen content, profit versus revenue, AI tools, and more! Having free time to spend with our loved ones is what we all want. So join us to get the tactics to help you get there! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session679.

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#804 If you're the smartest person in the room, you're in the wrong room. Going at it alone is also not ideal for most entrepreneurs. That's why joining the right community in your space can be such a boost to your business! We're marking four years of SPI Pro today, but this session is not a plea for you to join our communities. Instead, I want to motivate you to seek out whatever people or groups you need to be with to get better results in your niche! To inspire you, I'm joined by Mandie Kramer, Ron Desi, and Anita Sandoval—three incredible SPI Pro members. Listen in because all three share amazing information about everything from microlearning to making over a million dollars on Fiverr! Together, we discuss finding the right community for your needs, getting the most out of the group, building relationships by helping other members, and applying your new knowledge to a business. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session804.

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#678 Today's episode is about as Zen as I ever get here on the show. You see, I was trying out my daughter's Buddha Board—a drawing surface meant to promote mindfulness—and it taught me a very important lesson. Nowadays, many of us are more preoccupied with capturing the moment than we are with living it. That's where the Buddha Board comes in as a way to create and watch your work fade away into nothingness a few minutes later. I'll read you some funny Amazon reviews highlighting just how troubling this concept is for some people. But, our innate aversion aside, mastering the art of letting go can be therapeutic and a major asset in business and entrepreneurship. So listen in on this session because I want us to go through a real-time exercise in presence. Join me, tap into your senses, and take it all in! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session678.

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#677 Bringing people together and fostering uplifting relationships is one of the most valuable services you can offer. That's why, at SPI, we're all-in on creating powerful online community experiences and sharing what we discover along the way. Today's chat with Gesche Haas of Dreamers & Doers is an incredible learning opportunity for all of us running membership sites. Her award-winning community has been going strong for nearly a decade, supporting women entrepreneurs and leaders. Gesche shares her inspiring continent-spanning journey and the tools and mindset that have made her membership business a success! We discuss attracting new members without being salesy, crafting an effective application process, onboarding, monetization, and more. This is a fantastic conversation about organic community growth, so tune in and enjoy. And, if this interview inspires you, be sure to check out our community challenge to help you get started! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session677.

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#676 There's something I need to tell you. With over one thousand two hundred episodes published since 2014, AskPat is no more. That's right. I'm ending a podcast that has amassed tens of millions of downloads and has brought in hundreds of thousands of dollars in sponsorship earnings. In this session, I want to walk you through this important decision and why I had to let go of a show I love. You'll hear me get nostalgic, but I also share the lessons learned along the way. Publishing a podcast for so long wouldn't have been possible without the valuable guidance I received from my friend John Lee Dumas. I want to take you back to the Starbucks in Mira Mesa, where our game-changing chat started my AskPat journey. Tune in to hear the story and find out what's next for us at SPI! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session676.

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