Explore every episode of the podcast Dishing Up Digital with Ellen Mackenzie
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claude ran my business for 3 months... and I made $100k | 30 Jul 2026 | 00:34:10 | |
I made six figures in a single quarter for the first time ever — $100K in three months — and I re-recorded the intro to this video about ten times because my brain still can't quite believe it. This is my full Q2 2026 income report: every revenue stream, every expense right down to the studio rent, and the three changes that drove a 35% jump in revenue. And because revenue isn't the whole story, we also get into the shrinking profit margin, the enrolment goal I massively undershot, and the ad experiment that only half worked. The biggest lever of all? My Claude operating system — the AI setup that's quietly become the jet fuel behind this milestone. Here's everything under the hood: ✨ The full revenue breakdown — April, May + June (yes, it declined inside a record quarter) ✨ Every expense category — team, Meta ads, coaching, software, studio — and my real 39% profit margin ✨ What I actually paid myself, and why I never hide the profit-vs-revenue gap ✨ YouTube + Instagram stats: why my views dropped but my watch time (and AdSense) climbed ✨ The 4× ad-spend experiment — what scaled beautifully and what I switched off ✨ How my Claude operating system let me post 70% more content while working LESS Currency note: I'm based in New Zealand, so all figures are in NZD. 💕 Thank you to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen x Ellen _______________________________________________________________ // FREE CLAUDE RESOURCES // 🔎 Copy my competitor research skill! Download the prompt + set up guide here: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/pl/2148807824 📣 Set up your Claude to understand YOU! Download the Brand Voice Interview prompt: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/pl/2148783700 // WATCH NEXT // 🎥 How to set up Claude Cowork (full tutorial): https://youtu.be/R9Q1kDYlNUk?si=u2u9A2BmwJ2LGnLA 📲 Copy my Claude marketing team: https://youtu.be/-R32DSY5jOE?si=D6jdfa4hUIK4kYRz // READY FOR MORE? // 📲 Buy my Instagram Strategy Playbook + AI knowledge file: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/d7pPgBE2?coupon_code=50OFF 🏕️ Sign up for Camp Claude: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/camp-claude _______________________________________________________________ ⏱ //TIMESTAMPS// 00:37 What's inside this Q2 income report 01:24 Hi, I'm Ellen 02:20 The revenue breakdown: April, May + June 04:50 Expenses: the full breakdown 10:58 What I paid myself + tax 11:53 YouTube + Instagram stats 18:46 The 3 key changes behind the growth 19:03 The 4× Facebook ads experiment 24:43 New digital products + Camp Claude 30:20 The freebie that got 4,000 downloads | |||
| Claude Skills Tutorial: The Only 5 You Need (+ Free Skill) | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:20:17 | |
Most Claude skills are a complete waste of your time — so in this Claude skills tutorial, I'm breaking down the only 5 you actually need to run the marketing side of your business. Plus, you can grab a copy of my competitor research skill below, for free!xxEllen// FREE CLAUDE RESOURCES //🔎 Copy my competitor research skill! Download the prompt + set up guide here:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/pl/2148807824📣 Set up your Claude to understand YOU! Download the Brand Voice Interview prompt:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/pl/2148783700// WATCH NEXT //🎥 How to set up Claude Cowork (full tutorial):https://youtu.be/R9Q1kDYlNUk?si=u2u9A2BmwJ2LGnLA// READY FOR MORE? //📲 Buy my Instagram Strategy Playbook + AI knowledge file:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/d7pPgBE2?coupon_code=50OFF🏕️ Get on the waitlist for my course, Camp Claude, and secure a 50% discount:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/camp-claude⏱ TIMESTAMPS 01:29 What a Claude skill actually is02:51 How I use skills (and what I don't use them for)03:50 Meet my Claude team04:02 Skill 1: The platform specialists (Instagram, email + YouTube)06:06 Skill 2: The creative director (brand skill)07:25 Skill 3: The inbox manager (correspondence)08:29 Sourdough intermission + why this matters11:07 Skill 4: The competitor researcher12:21 Skill 5: The ops team (software skills)14:35 The biggest mistake people make with skills18:09 Set up your Claude foundations first// LET'S CONNECT //Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenzieeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieeeWebsite: https://www.ellenmackenzie.comSponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| Your Instagram Content Is Boring (Here's The 3-Step Fix) | 04 Jul 2026 | 00:24:33 | |
The reason your Instagram Reels are sounding flat isn't your hook — it's the storytelling layer right after it. In this video I'm walking through the exact 5-technique storytelling system I've used for a decade on my own account, including the journalism filter for deciding which stories are even worth posting and a real before/after caption rewrite so you can see what changes. ✨ Covered in this video: 00:00 The hook won't save your Instagram content 01:34 The state of Instagram in 2026 03:52 Part 1: The 7 Newsworthy Principles 11:04 Rella sponsor break 12:03 Part 2: The 7 Storytelling Shapes 19:38 Part 3: The Zoom-In Technique 23:49 The big lesson If you want the full storytelling system + 8 other chapters of the strategy framework I've been quietly running on my own account for a decade, I just launched The Instagram Strategy Playbook (on SALE for a limited time only). It's two files: a 50+ page PDF and a structured AI knowledge file you can drop into any AI tool you already use. 🚀 BUY THE PLAYBOOK: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/d7pPgBE2?coupon_code=50OFF 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring the podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen _______________________________________________________________ 🎥 WATCH NEXT: Why Instagram engagement is dead (and my new strategy): https://youtu.be/dKv498DDbmw 🎯 FREE WEBINAR: Learn how I sign high-paying clients and build a scalable social media business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🌐 Ellen's business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| 5 Hard Truths About Becoming a Social Media Manager | 25 Jun 2026 | 00:19:16 | |
5 things I wish someone had told me before I became a social media manager — the stuff nobody talks about because it's easier to sell the dream than prepare you for the reality. From dealing with trolls and negative comments on your content, to losing clients you love, to the hiring nightmares nobody warns you about — this is the honest version. In this video: ✨ Why negative comments hit different when you're creating UGC and client content ✨ The hard truth about clients leaving (and outgrowing the ones who stay) ✨ Why hiring and outsourcing is never as simple as business coaches make it sound ✨ The 9-to-5 guilt that follows you into self-employment ✨ How social media drains your nervous system — even when you love the work xx Ellen _______________________________________________ // 🎯 FREE TRAINING // Learn how I sign high-paying clients and build a scalable social media business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🌐 Ellen's business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| Why Instagram Engagement Is Dead (And My New Strategy) | 30 May 2026 | 00:26:11 | |
Instagram engagement just hit record lows... and as a creator and business owner, I'm feeling it. So I'm walking you through the 3 things I'm actively changing about my Instagram strategy in 2026 - in real time - so you can decide whether to copy them, tweak them, or wait for my update in a month.
| |||
| How to Set Up Claude Cowork (99% Better Than Other Freelancers) | 17 May 2026 | 00:21:09 | |
If you're using Claude like a search engine, you're using maybe 5% of what it can actually do. In this video, I'm showing you the exact way I set up Claude Cowork to run my multi-six-figure freelance business — and the three foundation steps that put you ahead of 99% of freelancers and solopreneurs still typing prompts into a chat box. This is Layer 1 of the AI operating system I use across every part of my business. By the end, you'll have: ✨ A proper understanding of what Claude Cowork actually is (and why it's different to ChatGPT or browser-based Claude) ✨ Cowork mode set up on your computer ✨ The Global Instructions file that makes Claude sound like YOU ✨ Projects + memory so Claude remembers your business, not a fresh start every time ✨ Why folder structure is the deciding factor between five-star AI output and mediocre copy-paste loops xx Ellen _______________________________________________________________ 🎯 FREE BRAND VOICE INTERVIEW The free tool to extract your voice with this detailed 30 minute interview and finally make Claude understand YOU: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/pl/2148783700 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// 0 to 7 figures: enter your social media manager era! https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🌐 Ellen's business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| making $100k as a social media manager is not hard | 08 May 2026 | 00:17:23 | |
Scaling as a social media manager or freelancer: it's simple math and a simplified business. In this video I'm breaking down exactly how many clients you need (at $1,500, $2,000, and $2,500/month) to hit six figures, why simplicity is your biggest competitive advantage, and the mindset shift that changed how I run my entire business. In this video: ✨ The exact client math behind a $100K social media management business ✨ Why offering fewer services actually makes you more money ✨ The lean tech stack and business structure that keeps things simple ✨ How to stop overcomplicating your path to six figures ✨ The permission slip you didn't know you needed 🎯 FREE TRAINING Learn how I sign high-paying clients and build a scalable social media business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring the podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen ____________________________________________________ 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🌐 Ellen's business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| how to get your business organised (when everything's a mess) | 26 Apr 2026 | 00:23:39 | |
Here's the exact 4-step system I use to reset when I'm burnt out, overwhelmed, and my systems have completely fallen apart — and how you can do it too. In this video, I'm covering: - How to triage your brain when everything feels urgent - Reconnecting with your quarterly goals (and why that fixes everything) - Using AI as your executive assistant (morning briefings, email triage, trend research) - When to change your business systems (and how to do it without spiralling) -The mindset shift that makes burnout feel manageable 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen 🏕️ // CAMP CLAUDE //Get your ticket here, 50% off for a limited time only: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/camp-claude 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// 0 to 7 figures: enter your social media manager era! https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // J Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🌐 Ellen's business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| the truth about UGC… here’s what to do instead (2026) | 10 Apr 2026 | 00:31:37 | |
If you’re a UGC creator in 2026… this is the conversation nobody’s really having. UGC isn’t dead. But relying on it as your entire business? That’s where things start to fall apart. In this video, I’m breaking down what’s actually happening behind the scenes — from market saturation and rising standards, to why audiences are starting to see straight through “authentic” UGC ads. I’ve worked in this industry for years, I’ve done UGC myself, and I’ve experienced the creative burnout that comes with trying to turn content creation into a long-term business model. The truth? UGC is a skill. Not a business. So instead of telling you to quit, I’m walking you through 5 online businesses and revenue streams you can build alongside UGC to create something more sustainable, scalable, and actually yours. If you want more stability, better income, and a business that grows with you… this is where to start. 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen _______________________________________________________________ 🎯 FREE WEBINAR: Learn how I sign high-paying clients and build a scalable social media business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee | |||
| I Made $74K in 3 Months… But There’s a Problem | 04 Apr 2026 | 00:36:20 | |
This is a full Q1 CEO report and deep-dive into the data behind my business — not just what I made, but how I made it, what actually drove sales, and where the biggest opportunities for growth are right now. In this video, I’m walking you through a real quarterly business review so you can see: how to analyse your revenue, leads, and conversion data what numbers actually matter when you’re trying to grow how to identify bottlenecks in your sales funnel what to focus on next if you want to scale an online business If you’re a social media manager, online service provider, or building a digital product business, this is exactly how you should be reviewing your numbers each quarter to make better strategic decisions (instead of just guessing what to do next). This is less about “income reporting”… and more about learning how to think like a CEO when it comes to your business growth. 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen _______________________________________________________________ 🎥 WATCH NEXT: $40k in 30 days, my revenue streams & expenses: https://youtu.be/ckFnGUE_GN0?si=s-fiYzjAY5l1ER-X 2025 income report: https://youtu.be/Xh6zUNyaSeU?si=GznbmfGRtvwF6RGF 🎯 FREE WEBINAR: Learn how I sign high-paying clients and build a scalable social media business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee | |||
| what’s inside a $3k/month social media management package | 20 Mar 2026 | 00:18:35 | |
If you’ve been overdelivering, overposting, and still undercharging… this is probably why. In this video, I’m breaking down what I’d actually include in a $3k/month social media management package — and more importantly, what doesn’t need to be there. Because premium pricing doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from how you position, structure, and run your business. We’re covering: ✨ What a $3k/month SMM retainer realistically includes ✨ Why you don’t need daily posting or endless deliverables ✨ How to structure content (without burning out) ✨ What premium clients actually expect from you ✨ The 3 things that actually allowed me to increase my rates If you’re serious about landing $3k–$5k clients consistently, I’m hosting a free training where I break down the full framework 👇 🎓 FREE TRAINING SERIES From Underpaid to In-Demand: A free 4-part private podcast for social media managers who want better clients & higher rates: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Template mentioned designed for SMMs by my student Christine: https://www.instagram.com/maryfield.media/p/DVb1ysZlZGv/ Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// From Underpaid to In-Demand: A free 4-part private podcast for social media managers who want better clients & higher rates: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| Is Notion Really Worth It? My Honest Review as a Social Media Manager | 08 Mar 2026 | 00:15:56 | |
Thinking about using Notion to run your social media management business? Watch this review first. I tested Notion for two months inside my own workflow to see if it could replace my task manager, planning system, and content calendar. And while it’s one of the most powerful free productivity tools online, there are a few limitations social media managers don’t talk about enough. In this video, I’m breaking down my honest review of Notion after using it with real client work. We’ll cover the free plan, the steep learning curve, why templates completely change the experience, and the biggest reason Notion might not be the all-in-one solution social media managers are looking for. Because when you’re managing client work, your systems matter. The fewer tabs, tools, and workflows you need to juggle, the easier it is to execute consistently. 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen My previous Notion video setting up my template: https://youtu.be/002CCCMYb7U My full Rella review: https://youtu.be/oUVsSAWon0Q xx Ellen _______________________________________________________________________________________ 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Template mentioned designed for SMMs by my student Christine: https://www.instagram.com/maryfield.media/p/DVb1ysZlZGv/ Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// From Underpaid to In-Demand: A free 4-part private podcast for social media managers who want better clients & higher rates: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| The 3 things that scaled my social media business | 27 Feb 2026 | 00:21:25 | |
Most freelancers don’t have an income problem. They have a reinvestment problem. Once you start making money in your business, that revenue is no longer a salary. It’s fuel. And if you want to hit consistent $10K, $20K, $30K+ months, you have to learn where to pour it. In this episode, I’m breaking down the only three investments that have actually shifted the needle in my business over the last seven years. If you’re serious about growing a real business, it’s not about buying a better camera. It’s about building better infrastructure. 💕 Thank You to Rella for sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen xx Ellen ⏰ TIME STAMPS 00:00 – You’re not an employee anymore 00:38 – The 3 investments that actually scaled my business 01:23 – Investment #1: Systems & Software 02:42 – Why $24/month software is worth it 04:04 – How software increases your prices 05:06 – Investment #2: Hiring Your First Contractor 07:18 – Why contractors over employees (at first) 08:32 – What you should actually outsource 09:06 – Investment #3: Coaching & Mentorship 11:58 – The $800 investment that changed everything 13:30 – Why investing should feel scary 16:50 – The hidden ROI of mentorship 20:47 – Final thoughts: Build infrastructure, not aesthetics _____________________________________________________ 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// 0 to 7 figures: enter your social media manager era! https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| The “Quiet” Strategy to Book Premium Clients With Less Than 1K Followers | 31 Jan 2026 | 00:15:45 | |
You don’t need 10K followers. You don’t even need 1,000. If you’ve been holding off on going “all in” with your social media management business because you think you need a big following first… this is your wake-up call. In this episode, I’m sharing the quiet strategy to book premium, high-ticket clients — even if you’re brand new and barely have a presence online. These are the same methods I used to go full-time as a social media manager, and what I’ve taught to hundreds of students inside the Dishing Up Digital School. Spoiler: your follower count is the least important thing. Premium clients aren’t looking for virality — they’re looking for someone who gets results, builds trust, and makes their life easier. That can be you (even if you’re just getting started). 🎧 We’re covering: - How to build a client-booking portfolio (even with zero experience) - The exact places to network to find clients who pay well - Why growth ≠ income (and what to focus on instead) - Case studies from students who’ve booked $2K+ clients with less than1K followers If you’re ready to ditch the Instagram follower pressure and start landing real clients in 2026, let’s dive in. 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen Students mentioned:Julia - https://www.instagram.com/social.vitality/Jade - https://www.instagram.com/jade.mc.neil/Liv - https://www.instagram.com/lilastudios.nz/Mackenzie - https://www.instagram.com/thesparklestrategy/Alex - https://www.instagram.com/alaskasocialco/ xx Ellen ________________________________________________________________ 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// 0 to 7 figures: enter your social media manager era! https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| How to become a full-time social media manager in 2026 | 17 Jan 2026 | 00:17:58 | |
Ready to quit your 9–5 and become a full-time social media manager in 2026? This is your roadmap.In this episode, I’m giving you a full 12-month plan to go from beginner (or part-time side hustler) to booked-out and thriving in your SMM business. You’ll learn exactly what to do in each quarter — from landing your first client without an Instagram following, to building a portfolio that converts, to finally setting income goals that make quitting your job realistic. We’re not guessing. We’re building. Month by month, phase by phase. Let’s go full-time—together. Inside this episode: ✔️ Why 2026 is the best time to go full-time ✔️ The biggest mistake new social media managers make ✔️ How to land your first 3–5 clients without a following ✔️ Pricing, packaging, and portfolio tips ✔️ When to build a website and brand shoot (not at the start!) ✔️ How to reverse-engineer your income and make quitting realistic Watch or listen now to get the full plan and start strong this year. xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| the daily habits of $100k social media managers (stop acting like a freelancer) | 03 Jan 2026 | 00:23:48 | |
Motivation is flaky. Discipline and habits are what actually get you paid. In this episode, I’m breaking down the boring, repeatable daily habits that help you act like a $100K-a-year social media manager before the money shows up. Because six-figure businesses aren’t built on vibes. They’re built on systems, ownership, and habits that signal: this is a real company. If you want to grow faster, more sustainably, and without burning out, it starts by treating your own business like a client, not an afterthought. We’re covering: 🎧 Why six-figure social media managers work on their business before client work 🎧 How realistic daily planning builds confidence (not shame) 🎧 Why you don’t need more leads, you need better follow-up 🎧 Why tracking your numbers works 🎧 How consuming less content leads to faster growth 🎧 How protecting your energy directly impacts revenue 🎧 Why rest and boredom are non-negotiable for long-term success If you’re ready to stop relying on motivation and start building habits that compound into real income in 2026, let’s dive in. 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring this video Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen Videos mentioned: 30 day posting challenge - https://youtu.be/drFv-5bq9EY?si=jYOLOoiSLov0txcU I analysed 250 instagram posts - https://youtu.be/d24k0VA_Gv4?si=IsdUWETlvl9-zh-N xx Ellen ________________________________________________________________ 🔗 //LINKS (ad affiliates) // 30% off the planning template I use with the code ELLENM30: https://productivitymethod.com/ELLENM30 Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 🤯 //FREE TRAINING SERIES// 0 to 7 figures: enter your social media manager era! https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast 💻 // WORK WITH ELLEN // Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Join the high level mastermind: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/the-lfg-mastermind SMM template bundle: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen’s book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 // SOCIAL MEDIA // Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| Exposing the income streams that made me $270K while working LESS | 27 Dec 2025 | 00:28:34 | |
Transparent, juicy, and zero gatekeeping—today I’m breaking down exactly how I made $270,000 NZD in 2025 across my digital products, brand sponsorships, client work, and more. But here’s the twist: I made the same amount as last year… working way less and loving my business more than ever. This isn’t just a numbers episode—it’s the real story behind the pivots, risks, burnout, boundaries, and breakthroughs that shaped my most aligned (and surprising!) business year yet. If you’re a freelancer, service provider, or digital creator wanting to build a freedom-first business without sacrificing income—this episode is your permission slip AND your game plan. Let’s get into the data, the decisions, and the energetic shifts that changed everything. xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| Best Carousel Content Ideas for Instagram Growth in 2026 📈🚀📲 | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:22:03 | |
If you want to go viral in 2026, you need to stop creating carousels like it’s 2021. That basic Canva infographic? Not cutting it. Instead, you need bold, opinionated, story-led content that cuts through the scroll and converts eyeballs into followers, buyers, and fans. In this episode, I’m breaking down the 3 viral carousel types dominating my feed, my metrics, and my business right now—with real examples, the psychology behind why they work, and how you can start posting them today. Whether you're building a personal brand or scaling a service-based biz, this is your go-to strategy guide for carousels that actually move the needle in 2026. 🎯 What you’ll learn: • Why your carousels aren’t converting—and how to fix it • The 3 scroll-stopping formats you should post every month • Hooks, CTAs, and messaging tweaks that build trust + drive clicks • Behind-the-scenes of my own viral posts (and how you can remix them) Posts referenced: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNWHaHyyA-M/?img_index=1 https://www.instagram.com/p/DMbJBUczycg/?img_index=1 https://www.instagram.com/p/DLqJxyGTTj6/?img_index=1 https://www.instagram.com/p/DNrCKNq5tRJ/?img_index=1 ✨ Steal my templates: Want my exact carousel layouts, design formulas, and CTA slides? Grab the SMM Template Bundle—now updated with top-performing posts from 2025: 👉 https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd?coupon_code=DISHINGUP xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| 5 Marketing Lessons From Kim Kardashian’s All's Fair 👀 | Viral Content Strategy Case Study 📝 | 06 Dec 2025 | 00:17:29 | |
If you want a masterclass in modern marketing... stop looking at other creators and start looking at Kim Kardashian and Ryan Murphy.All Is Fair just had the biggest debut on Hulu ever, and whether you love the show or hate it... the marketing is undeniable. Today I’m breaking down the 5 strategies behind their viral success – and how YOU can use them to scale your content, your creative business, and your next launch.This episode is basically a crossover of my two lives: my past career as a TV writer, and my current one as a marketer. And trust me... these lessons are gold.We’re talking:✨ Polarization as a strategy (yes, you WANT some people to hate your content)✨ Why BTS content is your secret connection builder✨ The “weekly rollout machine” that keeps viewers coming back✨ The power of collaboration + star stacking✨ How Ryan Murphy’s signature style can inspire YOUR brand identityIf you want to treat your business like a Hollywood blockbuster in 2025 and beyond... this one’s for you.xxEllen💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the PodcastUse code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription:👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen___________________________________________________________⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 – The All Is Fair launch: why the marketing deserves a case study1:30 – Lesson 1: Why your marketing should not resonate with everyone5:00 – Lesson 2: Consistency is the engine behind conversion8:40 – Lesson 3: Behind-the-scenes content builds buy-in12:10 – Lesson 4: Collaboration multiplies visibility14:30 – Lesson 5: Lean into your signature style📣 Mentioned:Youtube video on how to make aesthetic content: https://youtu.be/14OKJurBC1Q💻 //LINKS// 💻Join the Dishing Up Digital School:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-SchoolMy Social CEO Toolbox (including my custom GPT The Content Coach):https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/xi9FTZ22?coupon_code=YOUTUBEThe ultimate template bundle for social media managers:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZdBuy Ellen’s book:https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA//Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenzieeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee🤯 //FREE GUIDE//How to become a social media manager:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freebie👩💻 Ellen’s business:https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries:team@dishingupdigital.com
| |||
| My Exact Strategy to Scale with ChatGPTt & AI in 2026 📲 (it gets to be easy) | 28 Nov 2025 | 00:15:46 | |
Are you scared AI is going to replace you as a service provider? I get it—but here's the truth: AI isn't your competition, it's your co-creator. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how I use AI in my business (without losing my human touch), how it’s helped me grow faster, create better content, and work fewer hours. We’re ditching the fear-mongering and talking real strategies for service providers, social media managers, and content creators to thrive in the age of AI. Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how I’ve integrated AI into my content workflows, trained my own custom GPTs, and how YOU can do the same—starting today. xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| How to Create a Social Media Manager Portfolio (NO experience) 👩💻 Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:15:46 | |
Want to land your first social media manager client but feel stuck because you have no experience and no portfolio? In this video, I’m breaking down exactly how to build a high-converting portfolio from scratch - even if you’ve never had a paying client. Whether you’re a beginner SMM, content creator pivoting to services, or just want to book clients faster, this is your step-by-step roadmap. I’m also sharing my best-kept secret: my SMM Template Bundle (50% off this week only for Black Friday!) includes a done-for-you portfolio template to help you get set up in hours, not days. 🎁 Grab it here: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd/checkout?coupon_code=BF50💕 xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| How I've Made a Million Dollars as a Creator 👩💻💰 (without a big team or going viral) | 10 Nov 2025 | 00:20:06 | |
I built an online business that’s now hitting nearly $1 M in revenue, and I didn’t do it with a viral reel or a big team. I did it with a clear strategy, consistent execution and the right systems. In this video I’m breaking down my full income journey, the key things that worked (and what didn’t), and how you can apply the same frameworks to your own business. xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| How AI is going to help you reach $100k as a social media manager [full webinar] | 31 Oct 2025 | 01:06:14 | |
AI isn’t replacing you—unless you let it. In this episode, I’m sharing the full replay of my most popular free webinar to date—a training designed to help you build a thriving, booked-out business as a social media manager or service provider in 2026 without getting left behind by AI. We’ll cover:
Whether you're just getting started or ready to scale, this training will help you shift from fearing AI to fully leveraging it—and position your business for long-term success. Spoiler alert: The future isn’t less human. It’s more. xx Ellen 💻 The Ultimate SMM Template Bundle 👩💻 My Business HQ 📧 Sponsorship Enquiries 📲 Follow Me for More:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee | |||
| What I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Social Media Manager | 25 Oct 2025 | 00:35:25 | |
In this spicy episode of the Dishing up Digital podcast, I’m sharing some of the wildest, most chaotic moments from my 6 years as a social media manager. From nightmare clients to contractor drama, invoice ghosting to holiday content meltdowns—these stories had me questioning everything. But with each messy moment came a powerful lesson that’s shaped how I run my business today. Here’s what we’re diving into: 💔 A client ended our contract with zero notice during their divorce 🌍 I redid a month of content while on vacation in South Africa 🙃 A contractor nearly cost me my biggest client 😵💫 7+ revisions on one post—and the meltdown that followed 🚨 Late invoices, luxury car purchases, and the audacity 🧾 Refunds, breakdowns, and what finally taught me to walk away If you’re a social media manager, freelancer, or service provider, this episode is your permission slip to set boundaries, charge your worth, and protect your peace. 🎧 LISTEN NOW — and stay ‘til the end for the most unhinged confession I’ve never shared publicly 👀 xx Ellen 🚨 Sign up for my FREE webinar on how to become a social media manager: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar —————————————————————————————————————————— 💻 //LINKS// 💻 The ultimate template bundle for social media managers: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZd Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🤯 //FREE GUIDE// How to become a social media manager: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freebie 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| The "Boring" Strategy to Hit $10K Months With Under 2k Followers | 16 Oct 2025 | 00:20:54 | |
You don’t need 100k followers, a trending Reel, or a viral launch to make your first $10k month. I hit five-figure months before I had 2,000 followers—and it wasn’t magic, it was method. In this episode of Dishing Up Digital, I’m pulling back the curtain on the actual strategy that helped me go from low views to high income. You’ll learn: ✨ Why follower count is NOT a business plan ✨ The 4-part framework I use to create consistent $10k+ months ✨ What to stop doing if you want to get booked out faster ✨ Why boring, repeatable, unsexy systems scale better than viral trends xx Ellen 💕 Thank You to Rella for Sponsoring the Podcast Use code ELLEN for 10% off your subscription: 👉 https://getrella.com/?via=ellen ___________________________________________________________ 💻 //LINKS// 💻 Sign up for my FREE private podcast: a 4 part training on how I scaled my business to $1 million in revenue - https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/private-podcast Join the Dishing up Digital School: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School Camera: https://geni.us/iPjpAt Lens: https://geni.us/kNkJOx Full list of tools & software I use: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/tools 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| $500 for ONE video: How Janice became a UGC creator in her 60s | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:44:50 | |
If you’ve ever thought “I missed the boat” when it comes to content creation… this episode will flip that belief on its head. Today, I’m joined by one of my incredible students—Janice, a 60+ UGC creator who’s redefining what’s possible at any age. We’re talking about what it really looks like to start creating content later in life, how Janice landed her first brand deals, and the mindset shifts that helped her finally show up online with confidence. Whether you’re a new creator or you’ve been putting it off because you think it’s “too late”—this episode is your permission slip to start where you are, with what you have. 💬 We cover:
✨ Follow Janice on Instagram: @janice.ugc.creates xx WORK WITH ME & be the next Janice! 📲 Sign up for the Dishing up Digital School here: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/Dishing-up-Digital-School //SOCIAL MEDIA// | |||
| 2026 Is the Year of the Micro Creator - Here’s How to Build Your Brand Without Going Viral | 22 Sep 2025 | 00:20:03 | |
The creator economy is exploding—growing from $250B in 2024 to a projected $480B by 2027—but here’s the truth: you do not need a million followers or viral videos to claim your slice of the pie. In today’s episode, I’m walking you through the exact strategies micro creators can use to grow a magnetic brand, build a community, and generate consistent income—without burnout and without waiting to blow up. If you’ve been thinking: ...this is your sign to stop waiting and start building like a CEO. This is the new era of content—and you’re not late. You’re right on time. xx 🚨 Sign up for my FREE 3-day online conference for social media managers: 💻 //LINKS// 💻 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// 🤯 //FREE GUIDE// 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ | |||
| $40,000 in 30 Days: My Real Revenue Breakdown | 14 Sep 2025 | 00:24:53 | |
August 2025 was my highest revenue month ever—and in this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on exactly how I hit $40K (in New Zealand dollars) in 30 days.No fluff. No fake urgency. Just the real strategy, shifts, and streams that made it possible.In this episode, I break down:✨ The 9 revenue streams that made up my $40K month✨ How I rate each revenue stream and how important they are✨ Which offer made me $25,000 alone✨ Why smaller revenue streams are important tooThis isn’t a “look at me” moment—it’s a here’s what’s possible when you commit to a freedom-first business model moment.💻 Want to grow your own social media management business?Sign up for my FREE training: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar👀 New Instagram Strategy minimind drops Friday!Follow me on Instagram for all the launch details:https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/xxEllen💻 //LINKS// 💻The ultimate template bundle for social media managers: ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZdBuy Ellen's book: amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA//Instagram: @ellenmackenzieeTikTok: @ellenmackenzieee🤯 //FREE GUIDE//How to become a social media manager: ellenmackenzie.com/freebie👩💻 Ellen’s business: ellenmackenzie.com📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| I Doubled My Prices and Thought I’d Lose Clients... Here’s What Actually Happened | 29 Aug 2025 | 00:16:24 | |
In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most terrifying (and transformational) decisions in business: raising your prices. I was booked out, overworked, and knew something had to shift. So I doubled my prices—fully prepared to be ghosted or told I was “too expensive.” But here’s the thing: the client still said yes. And that moment changed everything. I’m sharing the full story, plus the truth about what really happens when you raise your rates, how to handle the mindset wobble that comes with it, and the pricing strategy I now swear by. We’re talking: 🔹 The turning point that made me realize I was undercharging 🔹 What to do when clients say yes and when they say no 🔹 How to use pricing as a business growth strategy 🔹 The analytics + psychology behind my price increase method 🔹 Why your dream clients will thank you for charging more This one’s for the service provider, freelancer, or coach who knows it’s time to stop charging “starter” prices—but feels scared to lose the clients they’ve worked so hard to earn. Spoiler: Raising your prices is rarely what breaks your business. Playing small is. xxEllen 🚨 Sign up for my FREE live webinar on how to become a booked-out social media manager: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar 💻 //LINKS// 💻 The ultimate template bundle for social media managers: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/DwKaVUZ Buy Ellen's book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🤯//FREE GUIDE// How to become a social media manager: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freebie 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com | |||
| Your New Social Media Strategy Starts Here 📲✨ | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:23:01 | |
Struggling to grow on Instagram, TikTok or Youtube? DESPITE posting consistently and doing everything "right"? You’re not alone… and you’re not broken. The truth is, most social media “strategies” in 2025 are just content calendars with no real conversion plan behind them. In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact strategy I use to sell $400K+ in digital products - including how to build a content plan that will increase your reach and brings in actual sales (even with a small following). We’ll cover: ⚡ Why your current content strategy isn’t working ⚡ The 4 core layers of a modern content plan ⚡ My step-by-step method to map content to your goals ⚡ What to STOP doing in 2025 if you want to actually grow Whether you’re a freelancer, creator, or coach—this episode is your roadmap to consistent clients and clear strategy. xxEllen 💻 //LINKS// The Social CEO Toolbox - including my AI Content Coach ✨ SAVE $100: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/offers/F449g2tE/checkout?coupon_code=EARLYBIRD Buy the book: https://www.amazon.com.au/dp/0473664798 📲 //FOLLOW ME// IG: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 📧 Sponsor: team@dishingupdigital.com DISCLAIMER: This episode is not sponsored. | |||
| The 5-step strategy that took me from 0 to fully booked! | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:24:08 | |
🚨 Sign up for my FREE 3 day online conference for social media managers: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/summit2025 If you’ve ever thought, “Why is no one booking me?”—this episode is your wake-up call. Inside, I’m breaking down the exact 5-step strategy I’ve used over and over again to get fully booked fast—whether I was starting from scratch, lost a big client, or just needed fast cash flow in my business. ➡️ No giant following.➡️ No complicated funnels.➡️ No slashing your prices. Just simple, repeatable moves that work—especially for freelancers, social media managers, coaches, and service providers ready to grow to consistent 5k+ months and scale to six-figures in 2025. In this episode, we cover:
Whether you’re a new freelancer or seasoned service provider, this episode will reignite your momentum—and prove that you're not behind, you're just under-executing the boring stuff that actually works. 🎧 Press play and let’s get you fully booked—again and again xx Other pitching video mentioned: https://youtu.be/GbPNLtLB3F8?si=7hIzG19RP_TFl9ee 💻 //LINKS// 💻 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA// 🤯 //FREE GUIDE// 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ | |||
| Don’t Make These Tax Mistakes: My Accountant Could Save You $10k+ | 27 Jul 2025 | 00:45:15 | |
Let’s talk money - because ignoring the “boring stuff” could be costing you thousands. In this episode, I’m sitting down with my accountant to break down the stuff no one talks about: This is the episode that would’ve saved past Ellen from so many money headaches. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or scaling fast, this is your reminder: financial literacy is a CEO skill. Let's make your bank account (and your mindset) match the business you’re building. 💸 xx ⬇️ Sign up for my FREE online conference for social media managers: AUgust 12th-14th ✨ 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS// 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee | |||
| Is your inner broke girl holding your business back? | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:19:05 | |
Let’s talk about the unspoken villain in your business story: your inner broke girl. The one who hoards money, second-guesses every investment, and whispers, “you can’t afford that” every time you try to grow. In this episode, I’m unpacking the mindset that secretly runs the show for so many online entrepreneurs—and how to shift it. We’ll cover: ✨ What “broke girl energy” actually looks like in business ✨ The difference between smart strategy and scarcity-driven decisions ✨ How I shifted my relationship with money to grow a multi-6-figure brand ✨ Tactical ways to move from fear-based to CEO-level financial decisions This one’s spicy—and it might sting a little—but it’s going to change the way you show up and scale. You ready? xx Ellen WIN AN IPHONE 16 📲 To celebrate the re-launch of the Dishing up Digital podcast, I'm hosting an epic giveaway! Enter here: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/podcast 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS// 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/ | |||
| How to Build a 6-Figure Online Business Before 2026 (Without Working 40 Hours a Week) | 24 Jul 2025 | 00:21:47 | |
Whether you're a freelancer, creator, or coach, this is your roadmap to working less and earning more before 2026 hits. In this video, I'm breaking down the 3-part Freedom Framework - aka the three key steps to scaling your online business without working 24/7. To celebrate the re-launch of the Dishing up Digital podcast, I'm hosting an epic giveaway! Enter here: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/podcast xx Ellen ⬇️ SIGN UP FOR MY FREE WEBINAR: how to become a social media manager ✨ https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 📲 //SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS// 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenmackenziee/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ellenmackenzieee 🤯// FREE GUIDE // 🤯 How to become a social media manager: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freebie 👩💻 Ellen’s business: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/ 📧 Sponsorship enquiries: team@dishingupdigital.com DISCLAIMER: This video is not sponsored. | |||
| Red Flag Clients You Need to Avoid | 20 Apr 2025 | 00:35:10 | |
In this episode we're chatting about those red flags that pop up in our clients and potential clients from time to time. Take it from me, someone with a lot of experience, I still can get caught out with red flags. Sometimes you need to look back and reflect and learn from these mistakes - luckily for you, I've compiled them all up to help you out! RED FLAGS:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! This episode is sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello HERE - it's free to get started! ~~~ Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| How to Make a Social Media Strategy for More SALES | 13 Apr 2025 | 00:23:54 | |
What do you do when your social media strategy is no longer working for you? Firstly - you're not alone! This happens to so many business owners and this is exactly what I'm gonna be unpacking in today's episode of the Dishing Up Digital podcast. Some Takeaways:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! This episode is sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello HERE - it's free to get started! ~~~ Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| This is Your Permission NOT to Have it all Figured Out | 06 Apr 2025 | 00:17:07 | |
"This episode is your permission slip to not have it all figured out" In this episode I'm chatting about jumping in to your new venture without having all your t's crossed and i's dotted. Sometimes it's something that you just need to do! I'll speak from personal experience, and we'll also do a mini case study on Meghan Markle's latest business ventures. A few takeaways from this episode:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! This episode is sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello HERE - it's free to get started! ~~~ Mentioned in today's episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| How to stay consistent when you're busy AF | 30 Mar 2025 | 00:20:49 | |
Guys! I'm so sorry for the lack of podcast last week, but things have been hectic! If you're not aware of what's been going on, well, I've been a busy girl launching my second studio space for MacKenzie Studios. It's been crazy, but I am super proud of everything and would love you to go and have a look at it on Instagram. On top of launching the new studio space, I've still been trucking along with my Dishing up Digital students, Social Media clients and getting my own marketing out into the world. How have I done this you ask? Well, listen to today's episode to hear about what systems I have in place and tips & tricks I use to help me out in these busy times. Remember:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! This episode is sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello HERE - it's free to get started! ~~~ Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| Is UGC Content Dead in 2025? | 16 Mar 2025 | 00:15:46 | |
If you're thinking about becoming a UGC creator in 2025, this episode might ruin your day. But I could help you avoid a very big mistake. We're going to unpack the rise of the UGC industry as well as what I predict could be it's downfall in 2025. I'm also going to share what you can do to build a more sustainable business as a creator and prepare for the changes coming. What I love about UGC:
Why I think this is a bad decision to build a UGC business in 2025:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! This episode is sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello HERE - it's free to get started! ~~~ Mentioned in today's episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| The EXACT Steps to Starting and Scaling Sustainably as a Social Media Manager | 09 Mar 2025 | 01:06:25 | |
This episode is one of my most valuable yet and is actually a replay from my last webinar at the end of February. In this free training, you'll learn the 3 key steps to successfully set up your freelance business as a social media manager.
If you'd rather watch the full webinar and see me in video, you can watch that here: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar Or, (for the first time ever), I'm sharing my Canva slides with you so you can refer to them as you listen or after you'd finished listening. Get those HERE This episode is sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello HERE - it's free to get started! ~~~ Mentioned in this episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| Quitting your Job? Listen to this First | 02 Mar 2025 | 00:32:06 | |
In this episode, I share my personal journey of quitting my corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship, detailing the emotional challenges and practical steps involved. I provide you with five essential tips for those considering leaving their 9-to-5 jobs, emphasising the importance of preparation, financial stability, and strategic planning. My 5 Essential Tips:
Today's episode was sponsored by Trello. Sign up for Trello here - it's free to get started! If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Mentioned in today's episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| The Power of Taking Action: How this Social Media Manager Started her Business! Interview with Abbey Graves | 23 Feb 2025 | 00:39:01 | |
In this episode my two worlds collide as we chat Social Media Management and Podcast Production with the wonderful Abbey Graves. From radio DJ to Government Social Media Manager to taking her own side hustle full time we discuss her journey and how she was able to apply what she learnt from the Dishing up Digital School to her podcast production company. Some Key Takeaways:
Find out more about Abbey on her website: https://abbeygravesproductions.com/ If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Mentioned in today's episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| This is What a $2000 Social Media Management Package Includes | 16 Feb 2025 | 00:17:16 | |
My pricing episodes always bring out some interesting comments and responses. Yes I’m going to be revealing every deliverable the details as part of this package, but I first need to reiterate that pricing is personal and everyone is different. There are so many different factors to consider from your level of experience, to where you’re based in the world. Other than a chat about pricing strategy, I’m mainly delving into the deliverables in this package today. I’m covering:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| Hourly Rates vs Monthly Packages: Social Media Manager Pricing Models | 09 Feb 2025 | 00:13:00 | |
Pricing is such a big conversation around social media Management. I always get DMs on this topic and whenever I do a podcast around pricing it quickly becomes one of the most downloaded. I even have 4 videos on pricing in the Dishing up Digital school alone! Topics I cover in this episode:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| Why it's Time to Move to YouTube | 02 Feb 2025 | 00:20:00 | |
How are all my fellow Social Media Managers and Business Owners? What a crazy start to the year this has been. I mean, I don't usually rush to post an update when TikTok gets banned in the US, or there's ANOTHER algorithm change on instagram, or when TikTok gets reinstated, but it's hard to ignore what's been happening over the month of January in our industry alone! Usually I can just roll with the punches and take them in my stride, but this was even a lot for me guys. Listen as I briefly un pack Social Media, but also do my best to convince you that YouTube is where you need to be. If you haven't already, also check out my YouTube video from last year on 2025 Social Media Trends & Predictions: what you need to know. Some takeaways from this episode:
If any of my listeners found me via YouTube, I would love to know! Do you think I should make follow up episodes this year on YouTube? If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| $10k from one $39 Digital Product: Case Study Analysis | 26 Jan 2025 | 00:22:30 | |
Spicy Ellen makes a bit of a return in this episode as I discuss the realities of launching and selling digital products. Online "Gurus" love to tell you that all you need to is to create and sell this one digital product and you'll be set financially! Well, lets debunk that myth and have a bit of a reality check. Some takeaways from this episode:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Mentioned in today's episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| Should I Lower my Prices to Book More Clients as a Social Media Manager? | 19 Jan 2025 | 00:16:32 | |
Sign up to my FREE webinar on how to be a Social Media Manager. Price, package & pitch your way to booking out your services with an easy "yes" from clients! ~~~ This episode came about after 2 of my students asked me if they should create a lower priced package for potential clients. The short answer? No! The long answer, listen and find out! Some takeaways from the episode:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Mentioned on today's podcast:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| The Strategy that got me Clients with NO Experience | 12 Jan 2025 | 00:14:27 | |
Sign up for my FREE webinar on becoming a Social Media Manager: https://www.ellenmackenzie.com/freewebinar Apologies if you thought you would be getting an episode on Social Media Strategy! Instead this episode is on the strategy that helped me book my first clients as a Social media Manager with no experience. My 2 rules for this strategy are:
In this episode I focus on the following:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| 5 Steps to your First 500 Followers on Instagram | 06 Jan 2025 | 00:22:00 | |
TBH, if I titled this episode "10 Steps to Your First 10,000 Followers" I would probably get way more downloads and listens. The reason I've chosen to focus on your first 500 followers is because I believe this milestone is incredibly life-changing and powerful and I really want everybody listening to this episode to focus on building a small but mighty audience. The 5 Steps I'll be covering are:
If you have the time, please could you rate and review this podcast or subscribe to it. It really helps us to continue making this free content for you and we just generally appreciate that you would do this for us! Have a great week guys! ~~~ Mentioned in today's episode:
Want to get more Ellen or Work with her and her team?
| |||
| How much money I made in 2024 | 04 Jan 2025 | 00:41:36 | |
As a freelance social media manager and online coach/creator, I LOVE having multiple revenue streams. Here's a breakdown of how much each revenue stream made me in 2024. This video also covers my expenses and profit (how much it costs to run my business) as well as a quarter by quarter breakdown with what went right and what went wrong this year. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/s6K8enUncsQ?si=YWhAYNXaYOLbefCS
📧 Sponsorship enquiries: ellen@dishingupdigital.com | |||