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	Title	Pub. Date	Duration
	$100 Million in Debt at 62	09 Aug 2024	00:04:25
What would you do if you found yourself over $100 Million in debt at the age of 62? Would you just wait to die, and let the living deal with the aftermath...Or would you start digging yourself out of the hole? In this episode, I want to share the story of Karl Eller. It's a quick story with a powerful message about possibilities, and not giving up. It's also a great reminder about the thing we mostly see as a handicap, age, and how it can give us an incredible power - Experience. Key Insights Karl started work at an outdoor advertising company After learning and building for 16 years, he sold his company to Gannett - the company that owned USA Today He spent 3 years running Columbia Pictures While looking for something to do, Karl and a small group of investors decide to get into the convenient store business He built Circle K to be the 2nd biggest chain of convenient stores in the world, second only to 7-11 Circle K began losing money, eventually costing Karl his entire personal fortune (over $500m), and leaving him $100M in debt. Karl headed back to Arizona where he purchased a small outdoor advertising company In 5 years, he was able to sell that company to Clear Channel Communications for over a billion dollars Video And Transcript https://www.rayedwards.com/665 Links Karl Eller on Wikipedia How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	A Year's Income... In a Day? (Anita Anello with Ray Edwards)	05 Aug 2024	01:16:19
I've known this week's guest for many years...Long enough to have seen her go from financial struggle, to now having a day's revenue that surpasses what used to be her annual income. How did she do it? One of the big "secrets" involves a struggle that I see in nearly every class I teach, or mastermind I participate in: Facing the fear of "high-ticket offers". Most people seem to have settled on an arbitrary number that defines the value of their product or service as they see it. Any significant amount above that number seems impossible. They'll sell products for less than a hundred bucks with the hopes of maybe selling something special for $500 (or whatever arbitrary number they have chosen). Anything higher than their magic number causes panic. I can almost hear the objections: "But Ray, I don't have anything that I could offer for more than $500. That's a primo price for me." That's what you have decided, but Anita has some ideas that may change your mind. Key Insights When a medical emergency put the primary earner out of commission, Anita had to make a change Understand the value ladder, prioritize high ticket offers, and focus on delivering results to attract high ticket clients and build a successful business (pretty much the inverse of what most people are doing) Hard work isn't the key to making more (thank God...we only have so many hours in a day) Understand the 4 levels of wealth Focus on level three and level four activities for wealth creation, create high ticket offers, have fun in business, and understand terminology in online communities to maximize success and avoid financial issues Focus on serving your past self, acknowledge progress, invest in self-education, surround yourself with high-level thinkers for personal and business growth Learn how to target millionaires, create high ticket offers, and attract the right buyers to build a successful business and attract clients with higher expectations. Learn how to use copywriting and entrepreneurial skills to create high ticket offers and virtual events Collaborate with partners to expand your audience Craft engaging content that leads to buying decisions. Video And Transcript https://www.rayedwards.com/664 Links Elite Entrepreneurs Events Masterclass - Come join Anita and me for this FREE masterclass and discover how to Unlock 6 & 7 Figure Months (and then days) with High-Ticket Offers & Virtual Events VIP Upgrade for Elite Entrepreneurs Events Masterclass - If you're joining us for the masterclass, I strongly suggest you upgrade to join us in the VIP room. This gives you the chance to interact, ask questions, and get answers! (only $47) How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	The Most Important Skill For Any Business	08 Apr 2024	00:10:09
This is part 2 of the "Writer's Rewind" series. I'm devoting this month to covering some of the fundamentals of great copy, and in the case of this week's episode, why copy itself is so fundamentally important to the success of your business, regardless of what that business is. This episode was originally released almost a decade ago (the day I celebrated my 50th birthday). I must admit, I was pleased that none of this content is "outdated". All the reasons I gave to support my claim are no less true today than they were then. Five Reasons Why Copywriting is the Most Important Skill For Any Business It costs nothing, but returns can be huge It can generate instant cash infusions Copy builds stabilized income streams Write once, profit indefinitely Copy provides strategic positioning Links The Membership Experience - Part 2 of Stu McLaren's once-a-year training workshop is happening later today (4/8/24). If you're seeing this on that day, count yourself lucky and grab your free seat. This is must-see training for anyone who is interested in creating recurring revenue for their business. It's live at 3 p.m. Eastern, and I highly recommend watching the live stream if possible. Stu typically has "bonus content" that doesn't make the replay, but if the replay is all you can get, take it! Get the transcript for this episode How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Dr. Gus's Post Covid Protocol	05 Apr 2022	00:48:23
This week's episode is definitely a departure from my regular content, but it's an important message that I wanted to share. I know that most of us are ready to move on and quit discussing Covid-19, but there is a problem: Many people who were infected are still experiencing symptoms like lethargy, sleeplessness, lingering coughs, rashes and other unpleasantries which they don't even realize are part of the Covid-19 aftermath. My guest this week is Dr. Gus Vickery, M.D. Dr. Gus been my trusted physician for many years and has some pretty remarkable observations to share which could be lifechanging for some. IMPORTANT: Nothing you hear in this podcast, or the content you read on this page should be considered medical advice. Dr. Gus is an M.D., but he's not your M.D. You may have other physiological issues which make these treatments ineffective, or perhaps even harmful. If you're interested in employing some of the treatments he suggests, please consult your physician first. Links Dr. Gus Vickery's website For links to the theraputics mentioned in this episode, visit https://rayedwards.com/564 How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Better Than Happy: Interview With Jody Moore	28 Mar 2022	00:46:39
If you've listened to me for very long, you know that I believe your thoughts, as in the the things you think about from day-to-day, determine pretty much everything in your life: Your relationships with family and friends, your business success, even your relationship with God. Is it possible to control the things you think about? Can you actually change your "natural response" to situations? My guest this week, Jody Moore, says yes, you can. Jody Moore is a Life Coach, the host of the Better Than Happy podcast, and the author of the book of the same name, "Better Than Happy". You can learn more about both her book and podcast at https://jodymoore.com. Tune in to the conversation and learn how being more intentional with your thoughts can change every aspect of your life for the better. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	From Lawyer to Copywriter: Anna Powers	21 Mar 2022	01:06:18
Last week, I claimed it's possible to change everything, break free, and live. This week, I'm welcoming someone who exemplifies that message - My friend, Anna Powers. Anna invested a great deal of time and money to earn her law degree, then decided to shift from that rather prestigious professional identity to that of a copywriter. In this episode, Anna and I discuss her reasons behind that career move, and the tactics she used to make it happen. Links SaraAnnaPowers.com Anna Powers on Instagram Anna Powers on Facebook How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Change Everything, Break Free, and Live!	17 Mar 2022	00:20:53
It seems that millions of people were previously too busy to notice that they weren't satisfied with their life...Specifically, the way they make their living. Now that the pandemic has forced so many of us to pause and reflect, what do we do if we're lacking a sense of fulfillment? What if we know we're not doing the thing we were meant to do? Is it too late to change? I believe that it's still possible for you to live the life you were put here to live, and this week, I want to show you how. [00:00] Intro - The Great Reset [01:23] We are officially The Creator Economy [01:43] Brandon Sanderson [03:23] Seclusion and reflection - How they changed lives [04:43] Mike Kim [05:21] Joel Comm [06:07] Mike Stelzner [06:35] Three gates [07:15] The Gate of Dreams [09:21] The Gate of Decisions [11:46] The Gate of Disciplines [14:37] Life cycles [19:02] Working together Links Mike Kim's book You Are The Brand The Functional Futurist, Joel Comm The latest from Social Media Examiner's Mike Stelzner How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Entrepreneurs Step Up	07 Mar 2022	00:12:11
The pandemic has forced tens of thousands of small businesses to close their doors. Now, in the midst of our recovery, another term from the history books threatens to manifest itself in the present day - world war. I pray we find a more productive way to solve the world's problems. Outside of prayer, I have no influence over what is to come; however, I believe that in the aftermath of whatever occurs, the economic recovery will largely be in the hands of you and me...The entrepreneurs. I have a message for my fellow entrepreneurs: Now is not the time to quit. It's time for us to step up. This week, I'm sharing some ideas and recommending a few books that support that theory. [00:00] Intro - What's going on and what should we do? [01:47] Don't quit now [02:36] Book recommendation 1: Entrepreneurs Will Save The World by Michael Hyatt [03:48] Book recommendation 2: Permission to Prosper by Ray Edwards [07:06] Book recommendation 3: The Vision Driven Leader by Michael Hyatt [08:03] Book recommendation 4: How Do You Kill 11 Million People by Andy Andrews [08:41] A harmless man is not a good man [09:33] Book recommendation 5: How to Write Copy That Sells by Ray Edwards Links Entrepreneurs Will Save The World by Michael Hyatt Permission to Prosper by Ray Edwards The Vision Driven Leader by Michael Hyatt How Do You Kill 11 Million People by Andy Andrews How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	3 Keys to Real Success	01 Mar 2022	00:19:59
Before we start discussing the 3 keys, we'd better take a moment to define success. According to the great Earl Nightingale, success is the progressive realization of a worthy goal or ideal. That definition deserves some analysis. "Progressive realization" tells me that, according to Earl, success is a process. I don't have to wait until I finally realize my worthy goal or ideal before I'm successful; I'm successful if I'm progressing toward it. In other words, it's not only the destination that counts, but the journey as well. This week, I'm breaking down 3 keys to the progressive realization of your worthy goal. Your One Big Why Let's assume you've decided on a worthy goal. Before you start building your roadmap, you need to ask yourself a question: "Why am I doing this?" [03:38] You Don't Need to Get it Perfect...You Just Need to Get it Started Not starting until you get it perfect? What an excellent procrastination tool. There are more how-to videos and articles available to you than you could consume in multiple lifetimes. You can even get a feeling of accomplishment for learning something, even if you never implement what you've learned...you just move on to the next how-to. You can stay on this treadmill for life...never moving from where you started. [10:45] You Need Results Last week's podcast was devoted entirely to this concept - If you have a belief, there should be evidence of it in your life...some quantifiable results (even if they're not the results you expected). [13:36] Links 5daysalespage.com -Learn my sales page framework, live and absolutely free of charge. This is the same framework that has generated over $400 million in sales for all kinds of products and services. If you believe an internet revenue stream would improve your life, here's your chance to act on that belief and get some results. Click here to sign up. Brooke Castillo - Brooke Castillo's Life Coach School Think Media - Want to improve your video content? Subscribe to this channel Diana Gladney - Highly recommended resource for video production and instruction. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	I Don't Believe You	22 Feb 2022	00:13:28
Beliefs produce results. If you truly believe something, there will be evidence of that belief somewhere in your life. Evidence of your beliefs comes in the form of results. If you believe that doing x, y and z will get you a thing that you desire, there will be results in your life that demonstrate you have acted on that belief. Often, those results won't be the desired outcome, but they still show that you took action. So what happens when you believe you can change your life for the better, but self doubt keeps you from taking action? That's what this week's episode is all about. [01:21] Here's why I don't believe you [02:49] The product of beliefs [04:45] The point of this episode... [05:09] How do I believe? [08:29] There are two kinds of students... [11:02] You must understand this Links 5daysalespage.com - Learn my salespage framework, live and absolutely free of charge. This is the same framework that has generated over $400 million in sales for all kinds of products and services. If you believe an internet revenue stream would improve your life, here's your chance to act on that belief and get some results. Click here to sign up. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Get Genius Ideas on Demand	14 Feb 2022	00:09:25
Where do your best ideas come from? If you answered, "your brain", you're only sort of correct. Truthfully, our best ideas come from other ideas. We compile bits of information from books, videos, articles, blogs, conversations, etc., and through the convergence of those ideas, new ideas are formed. This week's premise: You can build a system to intentionally create and utilize this convergence of ideas. In other words, you can make it happen...in fact, the idea for this week's content was generated by my own system. A quick note before you dive in: Last weeks episode generated more questions than any podcast I've done in recent history. Many people had never considered the concept of systematically generating ideas, but it absolutely works. These questions inspired me to demo my own system in an upcoming free workshop. I want to show you how this system works for me, how I built it, AND how you can build your own. It's spread out over 3 days, so the time commitment is manageable and the results will blow your mind. Again, this is a completely free workshop. Click here to sign up [00:47] Systems thinking [03:09] Don't just be an information consumer [04:07] My content generation system [05:05] The software I use (Notion) [06:12] The way we get creative ideas [07:05] Start by deciding to do it [08:16] I'll show you how I built my system Links Salescopysystem.com - Learn my system - I'll show you how it works, how I built it and how you can build your own in my free, 3-day workshop coming soon. Click here to sign up. Check out the new book from Tony Robbins here - Life Force: How New Breakthroughs in Precision Medicine Can Transform the Quality of Your Life & Those You Love Notion software for Windows and Mac How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Your Sales Copy System	07 Feb 2022	00:27:45
See if this sounds like anyone you know… You need to generate some cash, so you come up with an idea. You set up your funnel, and your checkout...You calculate your possible conversions...Then you remember you need to write that pesky sales copy, so you slap it together. As you roll out, you realize you also needed thank you copy, follow up copy, stick copy, next offers, etc., and you tell yourself "Next time, I'll get it right." This happens because you lack a system. A system is, according to the Oxford dictionary, “a set of principles or procedures according to which something is done; an organized framework or method”. Most entrepreneurs don’t have that. Neither do most copywriters. A system will bring you less stress, more sales, more profit, and set you up for the next sale. A copywriting and marketing system can be the first step in turning your promotion into a business. What Should Be In Your Sales Copy System? Right-fit client profiles Copy “chunks” proven to work A complete PASTOR filter brief Pre-promo content (blog, podcast, YouTube, social) "Inception” copy Interview scripts (for interviews on other media) Swiss Army knife Emotional Trigger checklist Sublist recruitment copy (opt-ins) Sublist indoctrination copy (opt-in emails) Email sequence framework Pre-launch alert copy Pre-launch content & copy Sales page copy Follow unto sales page for open cart copy Cart close copy Post sales followup Refund prevention copy Nurturing copy Remember, the more you can "templatize" and chunk down, the better. As I have often said, I don’t like to start a project until I’m already 80% done. System Checklist Review Proof Set up an A/B test on headlines and leads Test all breakage points After action review How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	What Does It Take To Make $1M	01 Feb 2022	00:41:38
Having a "million dollar idea" may not have quite the punch it had in decades passed, but that million dollar milestone is alive and well. I mean, seven figures is a champagne-worthy occasion for most of us (the kind with a real cork), but realistically, how many of us can actually get there? What does it take to make a million bucks? That's what I'm talking about in this week's episode. Here's the nutshell version: Decide what you want your life to be, structure your business around THAT (doing it in reverse, building your life around your job, will likely yield unwanted results.) Once you have a clear vision, select a mentor that can get you there. For the record, yes, I am one such mentor, but there are many. Choose someone whose style resonates with your vision...but choose someone. Could I have made it without a mentor? Maybe...But I know I my revenue would be nowhere near what it is today had I skimped on that part of the equation. Mentors provide speed, accuracy and safety. A good one will lead you down the path that they themselves have already blazed...Avoiding costly pitfalls along the way. [02:07] There are great opportunities right now...what do you do about it? [04:02] Who do you listen to? [05:15] The Great Reawakening [09:05] What makes a copywriter stand out [13:00] Your first client [14:08] I know it's possible [15:40] Where to start [16:07] Who are you, and why are you here? [16:43] Who do you serve best? [18:05] Building your platform [19:26] Measuring your platform [21:17] The invisible list [23:03] Making contact [24:11] Deepening the relationship [26:29] Starting price [31:46] About the Academy [36:23] The customers your want [37:35] Number one homework assignment [38:39] What does your business do? [38:51] Choose a model [39:42] Get a mentor Links https://app.mediakits.com/rayedwards - This site is a great tool to get an overview of your platform. You can check out mine at the link provided, and then create your own. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Why Your Copy Fails - P.A.S.T.O.R. Review	01 Apr 2024	00:30:32
This week’s podcast is a refresher on the core basics of writing persuasive copy (and everything is copy — it’s not ONLY sales pages and emails). If you can write effective sales copy, you can literally write your own paycheck. There really should be no such thing as a “broke copywriter”. And there should be no such thing as a business owner or *entrepreneur* who is NOT a copywriter. By definition, good copywriters can create money out of thin air. So this leads to a very important question: why does copy so often fail? Fear not, Grasshopper. I have the answer… There are universal psychological triggers that help you sell more effectively. Certainly, there are universal principles to writing persuasive sales copy. After all, as John E. Kennedy taught us, copywriting is mere “salesmanship in print”. You can hardly “swing a cat” these days without hitting a copywriter who has a “formula” for writing copy. Most of these formulas are actually quite good. BUT… The formula I'm going to share with you today is intentionally based on these universal principles (which many of the cocky young yellow belts in the copywriting dojo are not even aware of). Thus … back to you “PASTOR-ing” your customers. Most people associate the term “pastor” with the preacher at church. While this is certainly true in most cases, the original meaning of the word “pastor” was actually “to shepherd”. And what does the shepherd do? He or she cares for, feeds, and protects the flock. Now, before we go any further, I should address the habit that some marketers have of referring to their customers as their “herd”. It seems to paint an unflattering picture. That kind of imagery is not what I am invoking here. The actual role of a shepherd is a loving, caring, and protective one. In fact, Jesus, who called himself the “Good Shepherd”, actually laid down his life for his flock. I am certainly not suggesting any religious overtones for your copy: what I am suggesting is that you adopt the same loving, caring, and protective role as you write copy for your prospects and customers. And, as you might've guessed, P.A.S.T.O.R. is also an acronym for pieces of your copy. Here is the explanation: "P" is for PROBLEM "A" is for AMPLIFY "S" is for STORY and SOLUTION "T" is for TRANSFORMATION and TESTIMONY "O" is for OFFER "R" is for RESPONSE I’ll promise you this: If you apply the mindset of being a shepherd to your readers, and you follow the sequence of the P.A.S.T.O.R formula, my prediction is you will experience more sales, more profits, and more happy customers… more often. Links Read This Or Die - Click to check out my new book, Read This Or Die, where I show you the sales letter I wrote to myself (that saved my life.) Complete Transcript - Visit the show notes page for a complete transcript of this episode How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Do The Hard Things	28 Jan 2022	00:16:18
I can't think of a time in my life where I have experienced significant growth, without significant effort. That's true for pretty much all of us. We all know that our growth (as humans, spouses, entrepreneurs, etc.) comes from doing the hard things, yet we so often focus on trivial things...tasks that we can check off of our to-do list to feel some sense of accomplishment, but in reality we're just procrastinating the important stuff. This week, I'm challenging you to look at everything you do for your company, and ask yourself if YOU are the right person for the job. How do you know you're not the right person? Simple...If someone else can do it, you're not the right person. Entrepreneurs should be focused on the things that ONLY they can do. More than likely, those are the things that would grow your business the most - the hard things. Tune in and I'll break down exactly how I'm putting this philosophy to use in my own company. [00:24] Choose the hard path [02:06] How we should be thinking [02:57] Optimistic lies [04:06] My commitment [04:57] A big question for entrepreneurs [06:01] Identify the weak points [06:46] Get it off of your plate [07:10] Tools of procrastination [07:58] Why do I do this? [08:48] What should you not be doing? [10:01] You're NOT to-do list [10:55] Your "Do-Dates" [11:55] One last thing... [15:02] Give me your feedback Links https://www.yearzero.io/ - August Bradley https://michaelhyatt.com/ - Michael Hyatt https://acuff.me/ - Jon Acuff How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Don't Hire a Copywriter	17 Jan 2022	00:12:55
Yes, I'm a professional copywriter, and yes, I think there are great reasons NOT to hire a professional copywriter...At least, not at first. This week, I'm giving you 5 reasons why you should NOT hire a copywriter. 5 Reasons Why Every Business Owner Should Write Their Own Sales Copy [00:42] Unless you can competently write your own copy, you cannot confidently hire a good copywriter. This is because you will not know how to distinguish between good copy and bad copy. If you don't know how to write copy to begin with, every time you hire a copywriter, you'll be gambling large sums of money, hoping you get a good result, and never knowing why you did or did not. [01:18] Writing good sales copy requires you to know your buyers. You MUST develop deep, empathic knowledge about your customers, their problems, their desires, and their pain. There's no better way to do this than studying the people who buy from you. That is required to write good sales copy. [02:02] Writing good sales copy also requires you to develop deep, accurate knowledge about your product. You must know its strengths and shortcomings with your customers, and how to articulate your product's features and benefits in a way that causes people to want to buy. If you do a good job of writing the copy, you will end up improving the product in the process. [02:56] Nobody will care as much about the copy as you do. Because you are the risk-taking entrepreneur who's putting your neck out for this product, and for these people (your customers). There is no bigger stakeholder in the success of this enterprise than you. Therefore, no one will bring more sense of responsibility to deliver the best copy possible than you yourself. [04:03] Nobody else will spend as much time, write as many revisions, tweak the copy as often , or as carefully, as yourself. You need to get in there and write the copy. And then rewrite the copy. And then test the copy. And then work to beat your control. Once you've gone through this process with one big product and project, you may be ready to turn this over to a copywriter. Do not be in a hurry to do so. Of course, as I previously stated, I am a professional copywriter...Obviously, I feel there are times when hiring a copywriter is exactly the right thing to do. For instance, when: You cannot get satisfactory conversion rates yourself. You can no longer improve your conversion rates. You are objectively just not good enough to write it yourself anymore. You simply don't have time to do it yourself anymore because you're too successful. They can beat your control. In other words, they can write copy that converts better than your own winning copy. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	A Single Page Can Change Your Life	10 Jan 2022	00:16:24
How can a single page of writing change your entire life? That's what I'm proposing to you as the truth. Consider that IF my proposition is true, and you place this single page on your website, and you position it correctly, it can indeed change your financial destiny. There is a formula for constructing these pages, it is not difficult to learn, and once learned and implemented it can be used to bring money to you almost at will. And while money is not the answer to every problem, it is the only answer to some problems. Often, solving those few “money only” problems frees up your resources to solve the many others. Christ taught us, “You cannot serve both God and money". There is no prohibition against serving God, while having money serve you. This episode is a rapid-fire guide on how you can use one of these magical webpages to become more of the master of your money and have it serve you. It all starts with attracting the money you need to solve the problems only money can solve in your life. 8 Questions You Should Answer In Every Sales Page You Create [08:54] Who are you, and why should I trust you? What do you have that can help me with my problem,? Do you understand my problem in the pain it causes me? How does your problem solution help me? What makes your solution different than everyone else’s, and why should I buy it? How can you assure me this will work? What happens if it doesn’t? How much is your product, and is the speed and effectiveness of your solution with enough to justify my paying your price? How do I get started, how do I pay you, and what happens then? Is that all there is to it? Nope...not even close, BUT that alone can greatly increase your page's effectiveness. If you have a page that isn't converting well, see if the copy clearly answers each of those questions. If not, you might have just found a quick fix. Want the in-depth, masterclass guide to creating a high performance sales page? I have a 5 Day Sales Page challenge starting in one week (1/17). Visit 5DaySalesPage.com to get this deal for a one-time payment of only $97Just to be clear, that price isn’t just for the knowhow, it’s for FINISHING a ready-to-deploy sales page, live in our group. See the class schedule (and a few awesome bonuses I’m throwing in) by going to 5DaySalesPage.com. Links http://5DaySalesPage.com - Visit this site to join the 5 Day Sales Page Challenge for a one time payment of only $97. By the end of this challenge, you'll not only have the skills to create the ultimate sales page for your product, you'll have your page completed! Click the link for all the information (Hurry! The challenge starts in one week and we cannot accept late entries.) How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Be a Money Magnet	04 Jan 2022	00:30:19
Can you attract money? I firmly believe that you can! And this belief doesn't stem from the "believe in it and it will come true" philosophy. This goes beyond wishful thinking and enters into one of my favorite topics: Mindset. We all know at least one person who seems to attract disasters...someone who always has some bad news to catch you up on. I don't think this is because they were "born under a bad sign", or other such nonsense - I think they attract disasters because they are looking for them. If you seek the negative in everything, that's likely what you'll find. Adjusting your mindset changes the way you view the world, and it changes the way the world views you. Your overall attitude about life will determine how people interact with you. This week, I want to talk about how you can change your mindset to attract wealth. [00:35] The law of wealth attraction [02:21] It's not about making money [03:19] Here's why...(The Protestant Work Ethic) [04:15] Who works a billion times harder than you? [04:47] The best economic system....ever [06:10] The Effort-Income Link [08:36] If you're new... [09:07] Attracting wealth and money [10:22] Impartation and Activation for 2022 [14:33] It is a new economy [17:23] The money magnet [24:00] Two quick stories to wrap up How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	How to Think About Problems	30 Dec 2021	00:10:59
With only a few days left in 2021, I wanted to bring you a powerful message that's short, easy to digest, and could be extremely helpful with whatever problems you face in 2022. Of course, I don't know what those problems will be (for either of us), but I do know the way in which you view them, and ultimately deal with them, will affect your personal growth. This week, I want to challenge you to think of the problems you encounter as puzzles. Instead of having an anger fueled meltdown, or a tearful self pity party, analyze the problem as though it were a puzzle - then, make a plan and deal with it in an intentional way. Will this make the problem an unexpected joy? No. That will likely not be the case, but it can result in positive growth in all aspects of your life...spiritually, emotionally, and even financially. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Gen-X and Boomers - Hark Unto Me	22 Dec 2021	00:21:59
"OK Boomer..." - A popular comment on the internet meant to insult someone by implying the entire Boomer generation just "doesn't get it." I won't spend a lot of time breaking down the irony of how some of the modern generation, characterized as tolerant and accepting, can paint an entire group of people with the same broad brush (a crime which they often accuse Boomers of), but rather focus on the facts and figures...Boomers, and Gen-X'ers are raking in millions by marketing their knowledge online. This week's episode is meant to be a kick in the pants to you Boomers and Gen-X'ers out there who haven't figured this out yet...People will pay for what you know. But that's not even the best part. Not only do they value your knowledge and experience (perhaps more so than your current employer), but it's never been easier to deliver it to them. The tools have been simplified, the costs have been minimized and the only thing standing between you and your own work-from-anywhere life is your commitment...and perhaps a little guidance. Before you jump in, here are some more encouraging facts and figures: I don't have a huge youtube audience. I have a little more than 9,000 subscribers as I write this. That's probably more than your local high school gym can handle, but in the Youtube world, it's not an impressive figure. BUT - that audience generated 6 figures in revenue for my company this year. I'll explain how in this week's episode. [00:20] That's easy for you to say [01:09] It seems we've forgotten [02:39] An audience of interested people [04:17] Don't monetize your audience [05:50] Build your audience [06:23] How many do you need? [07:01] How do you start from nothing? [07:32] Accelerating the process [08:32] An example [10:02] The ultimate secret research tool [10:25] 1,000 true fans [11:51] Unique...is usually bad [12:38] Another BIG reason to start now [13:14] That's easy for you to say [14:00] How it really works [14:57] 2 challenges that made things tougher [16:10] What I always look for [18:42] You can do this How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	This Is More Powerful Than Sales Copy	14 Dec 2021	00:09:09
For years, I've touted Direct Response Sales Copy as the most lucrative niche a freelance writer can master to have a very high profit, virtually no overhead business. That is still true, but, when it comes to those who are writing copy to promote their own products, services and ideas, there is something much more powerful... Content. This week's episode discusses the power of Content Marketing. Tying every piece of your content into a worldview that is always in integrity with your company's vision. When your audience understands and appreciates your vision, your sales copy doesn't need to be nearly as "salesy" because people know what to expect from your brand. They're already sold - you just need to deliver the message. Take Apple for instance. They have spent decades carefully crafting their brand, but not just through ads. Every decision is carefully made staying consistent with their reputation. From the packaging, to the product colors, their customers know what to expect, so much so that thousands of them don't even need to see a sales page or television commercial...they just need the release date of the latest product and they're in. That's powerful. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	The Writer's Secret	06 Dec 2021	00:12:25
This is an exciting week! On Thursday, 12/9/21, 5 p.m. Eastern, I'm offering a free Copywriter's Strategy class that will teach you everything you need to know to get a high profit, low overhead, writing business up and running for the new year. This week's episode gives you an overview of the deep dive we'll be taking on Thursday's class. The topics I want to cover are better presented in a live, interactive format, so I encourage you to attend if you're reading this before the event. I want you to have a complete understanding of every aspect of how to get started, how to scale and how to have your own writing business and your dream, work-from-anywhere, lifestyle. I'm teaching it all AND answering your questions, LIVE this Thursday. Get signed up for the class By Clicking Here. Links COPYWRITER'S STRATEGY CLASS - This is my upcoming Free Masterclass that takes place live on 12/9. I'll teach you how to build your own, profitable writing business - with my help, or on your own...I'll cover all the bases. Don't miss this! Click the link to register How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Start Late, Finish Rich	03 Dec 2021	00:24:28
This week's episode is about America's next big crisis and how to prepare for it. I'm not an economist, but I do study many experts and most of them are saying that America is headed for a crisis...a perfect economic storm brought on by lack of retirement savings and an aging population whose ability to work is diminishing. "But Ray...aren't you usually the positive thinking, 'look on the bright side' kind of guy? What's with this fear talk?" I AM a positive thinker...But I am not one who ignores reality. I don't think it takes an expert to know that millions of people exhausting their savings, borrowing against their home equity and exiting the market place is going to cause hardship in the not so distant future. BUT - There IS a bright side - One of the brightest I've ever seen! I'll share it with you in this week's episode. [00:51] The next problem we should be prepared for [01:28] Part One: The coming American Economic Crisis [02:43] The 3 forces fueling the crisis [05:55] My 5 Part Action Plan to prepare [06:01] Eliminate debt [06:34] Minimize taxes and expenses [08:00] Diversify your income streams [09:08] Define your MVP (Minimum Viable Prosperity) [10:23] Maximize your ability to produce income [11:34] Taking advantage of new opportunities [13:05] Why start a business now? [14:21] Here's how you do it [15:22] Who are the most successful creators? [16:48] Mastering the greatest business skill [17:35] But...I'm not a salesperson [19:36] Earn while you learn [22:17] How to make it work [22:52] Get started right away Links Permission to Prosper - Ray Edwards COPYWRITER'S STRATEGY CLASS - This is my upcoming Free Masterclass that takes place live on 12/9. I'll teach you how to build your own, profitable writing business - with my help, or on your own...I'll cover all the bases. Don't miss this! Click the link to register How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	The Creator Economy	24 Nov 2021	00:45:30
This week, there is much to discuss. Here in the US, Americans are getting set for Thanksgiving and the retail holiday that follows, Black Friday. For the first time, my company is participating in Black Friday. Tune in and I'll give you the reasons why we are (and why you should be, too...even if you are exclusively online). But that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. I also want to make a very clear point: You are a writer...Even if you don't think you are. I'll teach ways to improve your persuasive writing by organizing bits of knowledge into blocks of information you can use to create original, compelling content. And of course, I'll discuss the title of this week's episode: The Creator Economy. [00:17] You are a writer [03:26] The numbers matter [05:28] What is marketing? [07:10] What is Black Friday [09:19] Using the calendar to join the conversation [11:47] Why you should have a Black Friday deal [14:16] But I don't have a retail store... [16:29] Paying attention to what's happening in the culture [17:35] Reaping the rewards from your ideas [20:05] Your backup brain [20:47] The magic notebook [24:44] Great sales copy is assembled...not written [28:36] Organizing your blocks in a meaningful way [31:32] Product Launches [34:25] Putting it to work for you [35:44] The Creator Economy [38:01] Capitalism in it's purist form [39:26] The transparency era [41:57] What's the point? Links How To Take Smart Notes - Sönke Ahrens Building A Second Brain - Tiago Forte` Our First Black Friday Deal - Get an incredible course (previously $500) to help you start your own, profitable writing business for only $7, through the end of Cyber Monday How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	How to Un-Stress Your Business - with Stu McLaren	27 Mar 2024	00:24:26
Who else wants to reduce your financial stress and create a stable source of income from your business? This is the way: shift to a membership-based business model. I know what you might be thinking: “Geez, Uncle Ray… that sounds complicated, and anyways… ain’t everybody sick of all the subscriptions?” My answers are: it doesn't have to be complicated, and I can prove it to you. And yes, we are all tired of subscriptions… except for the ones we love. The ones you will only cancel when someone pries them from your cold, dead fingers. Like my Chewy.com subscription (my pugs LOVE their Chewy.com treats)... or my Paramount+ (because.. Star Trek: Strange New Worlds). You and I need to wise up, and start building recurring revenue streams NOW - cause the coming year is gonna get all kinds of crazy. My guest this week is the world’s #1 expert in creating recurring revenue for virtually ANY business, Stu McLaren. Key Insights Why recurring revenue should be the goal of any business or entrepreneur (duh!) The "death" of TicToc in the US? What would happen to the nearly 7,000,000 businesses that depend on it? Every business has vulnerabilities - a membership with stable, recurring revenue gives you the ultimate insurance policy The 4 types of memberships - Product based (e.g. Dollar Shave Club). Service based (e.g. car washes, massage therapy) Knowledge based (helping people solve an ongoing problem, or master a skill. e.g. guitar training) Community based (uniting people with common interests) Two things that make your members stay: Consumption and Results If you think your business doesn't fit this model, it's time to shift your mindset. Ask yourself, "How can I continue to serve my customers?" Stu's live, once-a-year membership training starts April 4th. (Link below) Video And Transcript https://www.rayedwards.com/653 Links The Membership Experience: This is Stu McLaren's live, once-a-year training and it's absolutely free to attend. If recurring revenue is what you're after, but have no idea where to start - This is where to start! How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Quitting On Your Goals? Don't!	16 Nov 2021	00:15:06
We're nearing the end of 2021, but we still have almost 7 weeks left. That's 13% of the year still to come. Way too much time to start coasting to the finish line. The last few weeks of the year, most people will disregard their goals and dismiss the rest of the year as though it's the last day of school. Not me. Yes, I will take time off from work and be with my family, but I’m also going to do things that lead me closer to my goals, not farther away from them. Look, you can author a new story for yourself starting today. You can start living your best life, today. Or you can do what everybody else is going to do and defer your goals to some future date that will probably never get here. It’s up to you. This week, I'll tell you the 7 domains of life you should always be working to improve, regardless of the date. 7 Domains of Life You Should Improve [07:52] Faith [08:51] Fitness [10:11] Family [10:48] Finances [12:28] Friends [12:38] Fun [12:59 Fulfillment How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Is This the Time for You to Launch	08 Nov 2021	00:19:11
Over the years, I have trained many professional copywriters, but the actual writing is only part of what I teach. In order for a student to be successful as a writer (or any entrepreneurial venture), they need to know how to launch, run and grow their business. This leads to me getting asked various forms of this question numerous times each week: "Should I start my business now, or wait until things are a little better?" Here's the short answer - Do it now! In this week's episode, I'll back that answer up with 5 great reasons to get started A.S.A.P. - Whether you're talking about launching a business, publishing a book, starting a podcast...whatever it is, NOW is the time. DISCLAIMER: Before you jump in, let me tell you what has this on my mind in the first place. I've been attending Jeff Walker's latest masterclass. These are free sessions and YES, I do attend! I send notifications to my tribe about them because they're amazingly beneficial, free content. In fact, giving away content that is actually beneficial is one of the key principles of Jeff's program. It has been the main roadmap for my own business since I first bought it in 2005. The reasons I list in this podcast are things that I believe are 100% accurate. They DO NOT require you to purchase anything - I would never release an "infomercial" for my product or someone else's unless I flat out stated that up front. IF you are interested in following this roadmap that has generated over a BILLION dollars in revenue, then I encourage you to use my affiliate link. Yes, I get a small commission (at no extra cost to you), BUT more importantly, I will be working through the program with you if you purchase with this link. Each year, I pay the small maintenance fee to get the latest version of PLF. I have done this since 2005. I don't do it because Jeff and I are buddies (he's doing just fine financially and doesn't need donations from friends). I buy it because I use it to make money - Every single year! So this year, I'm inviting any members of my tribe (if you're reading this, that's you) to go through the program with me. After doing this every year for 16 years now, I'm more than qualified to help guide you across the finish line. Okay...now that I've fulfilled my Full Transparency Guarantee, let's get on with the show! Five reasons to launch now [05:07] Reason 1: The world has shifted to online. [06:07] Reason 2: The technology has never been easier [07:00] Reason 3: You don't need a following [11:22] Reason 4: There are plenty of examples to model [13:50] Reason 5: Access to help, support and community Links Jeff Walker's Product Launch Formula - Ready to launch? This is the latest and greatest version of PLF - The roadmap that I use in my own business. **Remember, purchasing with this link does not increase the price, but it does allow you to go through the program with me and other members of my tribe. I can't wait to help walk you through it. If you're a go-getter who just needs a path...this is THE one. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	For the Christian Creative	01 Nov 2021	00:38:23
This week, I'm introducing you to someone who is helping to change lives - in particular, the lives of Christian entrepreneurs around the globe. David Lee Martin is not only a student of mine, but he has become a great friend and respected colleague. In our conversation, David and I discuss his early beginnings as a spiritually hungry adolescent, to his ministry, to his life as an entrepreneur. David has many lessons to share (enough to create his own successful academy) and I think you will find great inspiration in his story, both as a Kingdom Entrepreneur and as a Christian in today's world. [00:51] Who is David Lee Martin? [02:10] Encountering the Holy Spirit while on an acid trip [03:23] Learning the tech to deliver the word [04:38] Realizing the possibilities [06:35] The big mistake many authors make [07:33] More on that...trip you took [15:29] One of but a few things (steeping into your purpose) [20:32] The Christian Creative Academy [24:41] The experience for students [29:32] Who is this for? [33:39] Closing advice...don't overcomplicate things Links https://christiancreative.academy - This Christian based academy teaches its members how to express the message God has given them and deliver it to others. https://davidleemartin.com - David's blog and podcast https://faithfulcreativebook.com - "Discover How Christian Authors, Artists, and Entrepreneurs Are Breaking the Mold & Making a Difference" How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	What Copywriting Really Is	26 Oct 2021	00:21:36
For this week's episode, I wanted to get back-to-basics and give you the nuts and bolts explanation of who I am and my philosophy of writing persuasive, direct-response copy. I had done this already for someone else's podcast back in 2018 as a guest host. That someone was the great Jeff Goins, and he gave me permission to use that audio for this week's episode. I have a ton of respect for Jeff and the work he puts out, so if you're not familiar with him, I recommend you check out his blog, best-selling books and podcast. You'll find the links below. If you're a regular listener of my podcast, this week's content will seem familiar, but I encourage you to jump in for a succinct review of the copywriting process; specifically, the P.A.S.T.O.R. framework. This universal framework (to sell products, services, or even ideas) gives you a starting point for every piece of copy you'll ever write. [01:55] Get to know Ray [02:56] Ray's career in broadcast radio [04:19] What is Direct Response Copy? [06:45] The value of good copy [07:29] What is copywriting and why does it matter? [08:26] Everything is copy [09:38] The P.A.S.T.O.R. Framework [10:24] P - Person, problem, pain [12:47] A - Amplify the pain, give asperations [14:30] S - Story, struggle, solution [15:07] T - Transformation and testimony [16:18] O - Offer [17:30] R - Request a response Links https://trainwithray.com - If you're serious about becoming a stellar, in-demand copywriter, check out this page https://goinswriter.com/hey - This is Jeff Goins's new podcast called Hey Creator which I highly recommend. While you're there, make sure you check out his blog and his best-selling books. This is the kind of stuff your entrepreneurial brain needs! How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Make More Money Than You've Made All Year	19 Oct 2021	00:22:13
We're a couple of weeks into 4th quarter 2010 (October-December), but it's not too late to make more money in this last quarter than you've made so far this year. No matter what your business, this week's podcast lays out a simple plan for you to CRUSH your goals for the year, rake in the revenue, and pile up profits. How great would it be to start 2022 with that amazing momentum? [00:45] Getting prepared for your 4th Quarter Miracle [01:12] Put the past in the past [02:39] Define your objective [03:14] Calendar your plan [03:38] Ray's Unpopular Ruthless Rules of Revenue [04:09] How to make a great offer? (Alex Hormozi's book) [05:06] High profit offers [06:05] The O.P.E.N. Scale [09:00] Frictionless Path To Paradise [09:40] Two elements you need to add to your offer: Urgency and Scarcity [11:00] The more offers you make, the more sales you make [12:32] Operation Money Magnet [14:28] Action Plan (Commit to the challenge, create a Money Magnet offer, market your offer EVERY DAY on EVERY MEDIUM) [16:07] Read the mind of your marketplace...with your calendar [20:31] Crafting your copy (same offer...different clothes) [20:57] Join my free copywriting community on Facebook Links From This Week's Episode $100M Offers: How To Make Offers So Good People Feel Stupid Saying No by Alex Hormozi How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Copywriting Alone Is Not Enough	11 Oct 2021	00:20:38
This may blow a few minds, but I, Ray Edwards, direct response copywriting evangelist and educator, am telling you that Copywriting, alone...Is not enough. Today's sophisticated, high-paying client demands that you have more to offer. This week, I'll tell you what other skills you must possess to thrive, AND give you an actionable checklist that will simplify the process of getting you (and keeping you) in high-demand. [1:49] - The dirty little secret of the copywriting world (The title says it all.) [5:40] - The Race to the Bottom - If you win, you lose...big time. [8:17] - Becoming the brand of You (Mike Kim's book will make this abundantly clear - Link below) [9:54] - Two fears you must overcome - Here's what happens when you finally get in the spotlight [13:28] - Why you need an exit plan - Keep the end game in mind. [16:32] - Coaching programs - In my humble (but accurate) opinion, these are the best ways to learn [17:45] - Action guide checklist - A few questions to get you started. Links From This Week's Episode Last Week's Episode (538) - If you missed last week's episode, How to Create Products Out Of Thin Air (With a 99% Profit Margin), I suggest you check it out. It's the first of this 3-part series. You Are The Brand This is the new book from Mike Kim I mentioned in the show. This should required reading for those wishing to create a brand built on their personality, ideas and reputation. I highly recommend it. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	How to Create Products Out Of Thin Air (With a 99% Profit Margin)	04 Oct 2021	00:35:07
This week, I want to talk about writing as a business. Not just copywriting, but writing in general. From fiction, to how-to e-books, to blogging (yes, blogging is NOT dead - proof below), etc. There are so many myths and misconceptions about this topic, that many people don't realize: Yes, they can make a living as a writer. It's not even that difficult to do. Two bold claims...Can I back them up? Can I show you realistic ways this can be done? Tune into this week's exciting episode to find out! (spoiler alert: Yes. I can.) Feature Presentation My title may seem like clickbait (Products out of thin air? 99% profit margin?) - Until you realize that I'm talking about writing...putting words on "paper". Your writing is a product and that is exactly how you should treat it. From conception to creation, you should have your ideal customer in mind...Who is this for? Who will this help? In fact, I recommend using the same formula you use when you're writing sales copy - My P.A.S.T.O.R. framework. Let's say you decide that you're going to write a how-to book on some topic that you're passionate about. I suggest the first thing you do is write the sales page for it. Write it as if your unwritten book were finished and ready to hit the shelves. Why would you write a sales page for a product that doesn't exist? Because it outlines the reasons that it should exist. As you use the P.A.S.T.O.R framework to craft your copy, you are essentially giving yourself the list of promises that this book must fulfill. You will write a better book because of this. Links From This Week's Episode Maria Popova's Brainpickings - Think the days of making good money as a blogger are over? Not so. Maria Popova has incredible content and she is supported by her readers. rayedwards.com - Head here to download my 6-Step Master Persuasion checklist that I mentioned in the show. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
	How I Live Well With Parkinson's (10 Years Later)	27 Sep 2021	00:32:10
Odds are, you don't have Parkinson's Disease, and if you don't, is there a benefit to listening to this week's episode? Absolutely! The truth is, we're all dealing with something - Either something big, bold and in-your face (chronic pain, degenerative diseases, injuries, etc.), or the subtle, waiting patiently in the background, definitively terminal condition that we all have in common - Life. Whatever your situation is, I believe these ten directives will help you live a better life. Click below to listen and I'll break down all ten. [4:31] Be a Rational Optimist - I don't believe the best will always happen, but I do work to make the best of whatever does. [6:24] Consciously choose a philosophy of life and live in a state of non-contradiction [8:17] Take 100% Responsibility for everything in your life. You're not in control of everything that happens in your life, but you are in control of how you respond to everything that happens in your life…100%. [9:46] Be well, even when you're not. [13:26] Pursue growth and contribution. If we don't feel that we're growing as a person, we begin to feel that we're dying. [15:34] Trade your expectations for appreciation. [19:54] Build daily rituals to control your focus, your physiology and your neurobiology. [24:11] Do your best to stay awake - Stay out of the hypnotic trance that society puts us in. [25:11] Live from your future to your present. Many people are living from their past which severely limits the possibilities of their future. [27:20] Ask better questions. For a transcript of this episode, visit https://rayedwards.com/537 How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Choose Your Life Again	20 Sep 2021	00:09:12
A surprising call from an old friend got me thinking … It seems almost everyone I know is being faced with big decisions. Maybe you, too, are thinking through one of these "big decisions". Decisions about whether to keep the job you have … Or decision about whether to accept the new job you've been offered… Maybe you're thinking about starting your own business… Or you might even be considering whether to move to a different city (or country) … If you are making *any* kind of decision, it's a good time to make *all* the decisions. About every part of your life. Don't let this freak you out. It's actually a good thing. It's a way to unleash lightning bolts of positive energy in your life.
	“This Might Be My Biggest Mistake Ever”	13 Sep 2021	00:22:20
Look, let's be real. These last couple of years have been very difficult for most of us. Think of all the crazy stuff that has happened. There's a really good chance you did not see all of that coming. I surely did not. In today's podcast, I get gut-level real. Many of my clients and friends in the world of business really did have their “best year ever” in 2020, and things are looking even better for them as we round out 2021. It seems for many people I know the last couple of years actually bro have been charmed. No wonder they are so happy. Everything went their way. It was not so for me. Behind the scenes, my life was turned upside down. And there were some very dark moments moments that are hard to talk about. But I feel it's important that we do talk about them. Otherwise I'm not being honest with you. This is important, especially if you’re a leader of any kind. *When you stop being honest, you stop being a leader.* We are about to start the fourth quarter of this year. These are 12 precious weeks that you and I can use as an excuse to turn our lives and our business is completely around. Or to turn them up to an all new level of enjoyment contribution and reward. If you would like to run on the track with me, so we can spread together and make more progress in the next 12 weeks than most people will make in the next 12 years, invite you to join us for our live workshop which is happening Tuesday, September 14, 2021. In this workshop I'm giving you everything you need to do this 12 week sprint. I'm not holding something back, I don't have any "secrets" you need to pay for, this is 100% free, it's going to be a powerful training, we got a killer workbook created for you but you must sign up to get it so right now go to https://rayedwards.com/million
	Writing Gets You Everything You Want - Proof!	21 Mar 2024	00:17:25
On last week's episode, I boldly declared, "Writing gets you everything you want." This week, I'm giving you some proof of how that has been true in my life. You may already be thinking, "But Ray, you're a writer...of course writing has been important in your career." The thing is, the proof I'm offering today has nothing to do with writing jobs. I wasn't hired to be a writer, but my writing is what got me hired, kept me working, got me promotions, and many other opportunities I would not have gotten otherwise. Okay, enough of the preamble, let's get to the proof... Key Insights Where I came from (and why I didn't want to stay there) My early marketing lessons - promoting family businesses Writing increased my value in the radio business - it made me less expendable Clients loved me because I wrote ads that made them money My pitch for a six-figure job was written with the same sales-letter tactics I use today My writing made me a sought-after talent in my industry My long (50+ pages) pitch for a job with Citadel Broadcasting made me more than a half million dollars in personal income (not bad for a non-writing job) My writing has allowed me to meet, learn from, and even teach many of my mentors Subscribe to The Daily Ray for valuable tips, interesting observations, and occasional offers Video And Transcript https://www.rayedwards.com/652 Links Subscribe to The Daily Ray How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Read To Lead	06 Sep 2021	00:37:20
If you want to be a leader, you need to develop a reading habit. “Leaders are readers,” says Jeff Brown, my guest on today’s podcast. Jeff is the host of *The Read To Lead Podcast, and the author of a new book* called, not surprisingly, *Read To Lead. In Jeff’s book, you will learn* Why you need to read like your career depends on it. The eight research-backed reasons reading will help you build your career. How to absorb a book into your bloodstream. Tips on creating a lifetime reading habit. In our conversation, Jeff and I dig deep into: Why books still matter, and why you should develop an intentional reading habit. Why you should read physical books and not only audio or summaries. Why you should read books with views that oppose your own. Why reading contributes to higher income and more success. How to remember what you read. The startling simple math formula that will help you decide what to read next. How reading makes life more fulfilling, How you can find time to read - even if your life is “crazy busy”. How to read faster - almost instantly. (You can read a 200-page book in 2 hours). Do audiobooks “count” as reading? The “secret” service both Jeff and I use to organize and export our notes from Kindle. What we’re both reading now, and why. Links From This Episode Jeff's Podcast https://readtoleadpodcast.com/ Jeff's Book https://readtoleadbook.com/ About Jeff https://readtoleadpodcast.com/about/
	How to Train Your Brain For Success	30 Aug 2021	00:54:17
How much of your thinking is by design? I don't mean that in the spiritual sense, but rather, by your design. How much of your thinking is intentional? How much of it is YOUR thinking? Is it possible that most of your life is being dictated by random bits and pieces of knowledge, unintentional habits, misconceptions, and various other noise that you no longer even choose to think? And if so…Can you fix it? This topic isn't new to the podcast. In fact, there are several episodes where I have asserted that most of us are thinking thoughts that don't serve us…Thoughts we never intended to put on "Auto Pilot". I've also claimed that those repetitive thoughts can be removed and replaced with thoughts that do serve you. But is any of that true? I mean, Dammit Jim…I'm a copywriter, not a neuropsychologist. Lucky for us, my guest this week is a neuropsychologist. Dr. Shannon Irvine holds a PH.D. in neuropsychology (the study of the relationship between behavior, emotion, and cognition), and is also a renowned business advisor with a passion for guiding entrepreneurs. When she says she can help you train your brain for success, it's not just a motivational pep talk - She's a bonafide expert in the science behind it. Tune in to learn: How to Recognize "destructive programming" - The unintentional, negative thoughts are running a portion of your life. Why to Record those thoughts - As in, physically write them down. This isn't a meaningless exercise. Dr. Irvine explains the science behind this critical step. A great way to Refute those thoughts How to Replace them with positive truths Links from this episode https://drshannonirvine.com/ - Dr. Irvine's official site. Be sure to check out her Epic Success Podcast.
	You Just Need Worth It	23 Aug 2021	00:23:19
At some point in life, I think most people find that they are essentially living the same day, over and over. Going to the same job, talking to the same people, thinking mostly the same thoughts, feeling mostly the same emotions...Everything is just mediocre repetition; neither advancing nor improving. They have brief notions of making changes, but ultimately go back to their routine. This week's episode details my personal journey through that scenario...And the diagnosis that snapped me out of it. Here's what we cover in this episode: Is the way you are setting your goals keeping you from reaching them? Is your attitude standing in the way of you being able to overcome your problems? Be intentional about your goals. It is worth the effort to get the result. Are you in the Matrix? Will you choose the blue pill or the red pill. Wake up to reality or stay in the illusion? Are you doing the same thing every day over and over again. Do you need to break this cycle? I signed up for Michael Hyatt’s Best Year Ever Program and this program was different, and it helped me make some decisions to change my life. After starting it, I made 1 million dollars in my business, lost 67 pounds, paid off our debt. It woke me up and forced me to complete the past. Looking back at your past gives you the ability to learn, be aware and analyze what has happened and what I will do differently in the future. Quote of the Day: “You don’t need easy, You just need worth it” — Jim Rohn
	3 Steps to Making Money as a Freelance Copywriter	16 Aug 2021	00:19:06
This week we're showcasing one of our highest reviewed episodes in the history of the show...And for good reason - It breaks down the process of starting a successful copywriting business into 3 simple steps. Yep...You're (still) only 3 steps away from your work-from-anywhere, get paid to be creative, no-business-attire-required (or even pants for that matter) dream job. Here's what we cover in this episode: The definition of a “direct response copywriter” and who their best kind of clients are. Yes, every business needs good copy to sell their products. But that doesn’t mean you should try to work for just any random company… unless they use this specific style of marketing. That is, if you want to have good clients who don’t stiff you or undercut your every move. Why the kind of writing business I’m discussing today is the most profitable kind of writing business you can get into. Unless you’re the next J. K. Rowling or Stephen King, this is by far the most lucrative type of writing business on the planet – if you know how to leverage your copywriting skills. How to apply the required F.O.C.U.S. you’ll need to learn the craft of copywriting from a master teacher. If you follow this “one, and only one” method of learning, you’ll get to your goal much faster than the average rookie copywriter. Why you need to become intimately familiar with the great original masters of copywriting. Without this knowledge, you’ll build your copywriting house on a foundation of sand, and you know what happened to the foolish man when the rains came tumbling down. How to get into the minds of the most winning copywriters of all time and internalize their methods for success. This practice is tedious and time-consuming. So much so that most copywriters never make it a habit, to their cost. If you make this a part of your routine, especially early on, you will have a massive advantage over the competition. What you should focus on before doing all the “normal” business setup practices. Focusing on these other business setup practices is an excuse that feeds your procrastination bug. If you want to sharpen up your skill, gain a positive reputation, and get to the money faster than most copywriters, you need to do this first. Why you need a copywriting mentor. How your mentor can open doors for you and get you on the fast track to notoriety, profitability, and a pipeline filled with the best kinds of clients. The only way to distinguish yourself in the marketplace and stand out from all the other so-called direct response copywriters. There are so many people who call themselves copywriters, but they don’t have the experience to back up their claims. When you follow this path to distinguishing yourself, you’ll truly stand out in a noisy world. How to build the single most powerful type of brand possible. Hint: you already have all the tools you need. You don’t have to take any courses or read any books. The answers are inside of you right now waiting to come out and build you a brand so powerful, you can use it to sell very expensive programs. The website platform I would use today if I was starting out. There are many options, but this one, which is not the industry standard, is the quickest, easiest, and most beneficial for beginners. How to use the 3 pillars of personal branding to grow your audience using social media and your website. This is how the game is played. This is marketing. Whether you’re against social media or not, this is what you have to do if you want to succeed. The best way to gain authority and establish expertise. It removes resistance and provides your customers with results in advance. How to get inside your customer’s mind on a regular basis and help them get to know you intimately. Starting this kind of marketing channel doesn’t have to be complicated. You can start today by pulling out your iPhone and hitting a couple buttons. But the potential for reach and influence is huge! Resources: Links mentioned on today’s show: Join my Copywriting Certification program to be mentored and certified by me by going to RayEdwards.com/cdrc. Check out Michael Hyatt’s amazing book, Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World by clicking here. Get your podcast started with the amazing RodeCaster Pro by clicking here. Get your Audio Technica ATR 2100 microphone by clicking here. A Few Essential Copywriting Books by the Original Masters: Breakthrough Advertising, Eugene Schwartz (BreakthroughAdvertisingBook.com) How to Write a Good Advertisement, Victor Schwab Scientific Advertising & My Life in Advertising, Claude Hopkins Robert Collier Letter Book, Robert Collier Tested Advertising Methods, John Caples Confessions of an Advertising Man, David Ogilvy Sponsor This episode of the Ray Edwards Show is made possible in part by The All-New Ray Edwards Enhanced Certified Direct Response Copywriter Program, where I help anyone who wants to make big money from their writing without getting a publisher or having a bestseller, and even if nobody knows who you are. Get my proven methods, systems, and even my endorsement – go to RayEdwards.com/CDRC2021
	Answers on Writing as a Business	10 Aug 2021	00:41:03
During today’s episode it is my goal to answer all your questions about starting your own writing business, especially in today’s new economy. Sometimes it seems like it’s a new economy every other day or so, but really there’s nothing to be frightened of. There is nothing new under the sun, after all-this has all happened before, and it will all happen again. Spiritual Foundations The Lord is my light and my salvation- so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident. Psalm 27:1-3 (NIV) Tip Of The Week I am a big proponent of dictating instead of typing, mainly because I can’t type very well. But I can speak pretty fast. I was frustrated with my iPad pro’s Magic Keyboard because it would not allow me to dictate. There’s no button for it. Tapping the little globe keyboard icon does not help, because as far as I can tell, you’re not supposed to use software keyboards in conjunction with this actual hardware keyboard. I found the secret. Simply tap the Control key twice in succession and up pops your dictation window. You’re welcome. Feature Presentation Last week, we published a podcast making a strong claim that the very best business to start (especially if you need money now) is a freelance writing business. Chief among those reasons being that almost anyone can do this, and you can start it for basically no money (assuming you have a laptop or some other device that allows you to connect to the Internet). While that episode clearly spelled out why starting a freelance writing business is such a strong choice, I really did not get into how to do it. In an email follow-up, I asked if you had any questions about starting your own writing business. I expected to get a few questions…and did you ever exceed my expectations. Seems there are lots of questions about this idea of “writing as a business”. So in this week’s podcast episode, you get answers. When you listen you will find out: What if I don’t like the idea of writing sales copy? Does writing direct response copy mean I have to write spammy Internet junk mail? How long does it take to become good enough at direct response Copywriting to be able to charge for it? How much you can really expect to get paid as a competent beginner in this kind of business? Is it really possible to start this kind of business for free? How do you start charging for Copywriting if you’ve never been paid to do it in the past? How do I find clients as a Copywriter, when it seems the market is already saturated with Copywriters everywhere I look? What if you have a chronic illness which might make it difficult to commit to deadlines? If I am willing to invest in books or training, what do you recommend? So grab your success journal and pen (or your iPad if you prefer), and get ready to take some notes. There’s plenty of meat in this one! It is possible to take your love of writing, and turn that into a lucrative full-time income – or even a full-fledged business of your own. Sponsor This episode of the Ray Edwards Show is made possible in part by The All-New Ray Edwards Enhanced Certified Direct Response Copywriter Program, where I help anyone who wants to make big money from their writing without getting a publisher or having a bestseller, and even if nobody knows who you are. Get my proven methods, systems, and even my endorsement – go to RayEdwards.com/CDRC2021
	The Best Business to Start if You Need Money Now	02 Aug 2021	00:29:15
As we continue our recording studio makeover at Ray Edwards, International, I've been going through some past episodes, looking for those that stood out…episodes worth a second listen. The one I found for this week seemed oddly prophetic. It was released about a year before the pandemic began and actually seems even more appropriate in 2021. Don't take my word for it…listen, and hear for yourself. Feature Presentation: “The Single Best Business to Start (If You Need Money Now)” While thinking about this idea of the “ideal business”, I ran across an article by John Forde at AWAI. I will link to the article in the show notes. (https://www.awai.com/2009/05/is-copywriting-the-worlds-best-business/) Forde argued in that article that he has a set of objective criteria for what makes “The Ideal Business” … and these reasons actually go back to an article written in the 1970's by financial guru Richard Russell. Russell was the writer and publisher of “The Dow Theory Letters”, starting in 1958. Russell died in 2015. But as of the date of his passing, the Dow Theory Letters was the longest-running service continuously written by one person in the business. So no, he wasn’t writing about copywriting as we know it. And yet – he was a master of the craft. Anyway, with credit to John Forde and Richard Russell, here are the essential qualities of “the ideal business” for anyone to start. 1. “Sells the World.” 2. Enjoys Inelastic Demand” 3. “Cannot Be Easily Copied” 4. “Has Low Labor and Overhead Costs” 5. “Takes in Cash Billings” 6. “Is Free of All Kinds of Regulation” 7. “Is Portable” 8. “Satisfies Intellectual Needs” 9. “Leaves You With Free Time” 10. “Is Not Limited By Personal Output” I have two more “reasons why” to add to the list… (these are my own additions.) 11. “Easily Profits Whether Markets Are Up or Down”. 12. “Is a Minimalist Business”. Sponsor This episode of the Ray Edwards Show is made possible in part by The All-New Ray Edwards Enhanced Certified Direct Response Copywriter Program, where I help anyone who wants to make big money from their writing without getting a publisher or having a bestseller, and even if nobody knows who you are. Get my proven methods, systems, and even my endorsement – go to RayEdwards.com/CDRC2021 How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	The 5 Phases of a Prosperous Business - RELOADED	26 Jul 2021	00:33:36
This week, we decided to use some studio down-time to revisit our most downloaded, most commented episode, and strip it down to the meat and potatoes. The original episode, which you can find in its entirety here, focused on the importance of the order in which entrepreneurs should do things to successfully create a personal-brand based business. Three years later, the out-of-sequentialism problem still exists and the solutions in this episode are still valid. Even if you heard the original, this condensed, straight-to-the-point version can help you stay on track as you start or grow your business. Feature Presentation The premise for today’s podcast: Every person listening to this show can and should build a prosperous personal-brand business by following 5 proven phases. If you get these phases out of order you will have problems. If you are frustrated with lack of traction in building your personal brand online, chances are you’re out of sequence. If you want to start a platform-based, personal-brand business by taking your knowledge, your wisdom, your expertise, and your gifts and you can share them with people (the world) via the power of the Internet. You can establish your global reach for $50-$100 by creating a radio show (podcast), TV show (YouTube channel) and other various ways of having people communicate with you (social media). Many businesses have done just that. Casey Neistat started out with a video camera and making movies and had no audience, no following, and built a seven million follower YouTube channel. Part of his company was purchased by CNN for $25 million last year. Peter McKinnon, a photographer, cinematographer, and videographer who lives in Canada has built a million subscriber YouTube channel. It’s not just YouTube channels, there are people in all social media markets like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest. You know the names of the people who rule these marketplaces, but you may not know the people in the niches that are getting wealthy serving a small, few thousand people in their particular niche. “The internet and the ability to build a personal brand online is the great equalizer of all entrepreneurs.” Ray Edwards 5 Phases of a Prosperous Business Determine the meaning of life and the meaning of your business. Define your mission, your vision, your goals, and your tasks. Clarify your message. (Who you help, why they need you, what you do that helps) Create marketing materials. (Marketing that is clear, repeatable, and sticky.) Collect money. (Give value first.) How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	You Are The Brand	19 Jul 2021	01:00:39
You already are a personal brand, and as my friend Mike Kim says, you might as well be a better one. Personal branding isn't just for celebrities, public speakers, or internet gurus…It's for YOU! This week's episode will help you make big strides in your own personal brand, thanks to Mike's expert advice. Feature Presentation Throughout my years of consulting and training, I have encountered a common sentiment among many would-be content creators - "How can I succeed when so many others are already doing what I want to do?" I get it...Most likely, you've already been inspired by content creators in your field of expertise. Perhaps you are even a devoted, multi-platform-following fan of some of them. Why would anyone choose your content over theirs? It's a one-word answer: You. Your personal-brand is where your power lies...It's not simply a battle of Your Content vs. Their Content - It's a Battle of the Brands. The fact is, even though someone else may have more resources than you (more time, more money, more support staff, better equipment), your personality, your style, YOUR BRAND, can serve as an equalizer. It's the unduplicatable part of your content, and Mike Kim has the knowledge to raise your branding game to a new level. Listen to the episode (or read the transcript linked below) Then, grab Mike Kim's book here. Links From This Episode You Are The Brand - The 8-Step Blueprint to Showcase Your Unique Expertise & Build a Highly Profitable, Personally Fulfilling Business. No matter where you buy your copy of Mike Kim's book, You Are The Brand, make sure you go to this official site to claim many awesome bonuses. Norm McDonald's Moth Joke - I mentioned it, so I felt the need to throw this in. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	5 Reasons Why Now Is Your Time	12 Jul 2021	00:11:52
So many of us still have life "on pause" as a result of the last 18 months. Regardless of where you are or what restrictions you're still facing, it's time to press play...It's time to move forward. This week, I'm giving you 5 reasons to show you why Now is your time. Spiritual Foundations "The wicked flee though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion. - Proverbs 28:1, NIV Perhaps you're more familiar with the secular version, "Fortune favors the bold". In this economy, NOW is the time to be bold as a lion. Feature Presentation 5 reason why now is your time: This is the Digital Revolution - The one we've been talking about for a few decades now is essentially just starting for millions of people who were rocketed into an online lifestyle due to the effects of the pandemic. We don't know the official numbers, but the amount of people buying, meeting and learning online has increased by at least TEN TIMES. This is the Wild West Economy, all over again (Fortunes will be made NOW) Chaos Rewards Optimism - Things are chaotic right now, but chaos rewards optimism and reflects whatever you expect of it. It's a new Inflection Point. Worldwide - More millionaires are being made now than ever in the history of the world economy. Exponential Growth is Just Around The Corner - Incredible advances in internet infrastructure and other technologies are priming the economy for giant leaps. Links From This Episode Be Your Own Copywriter - This live, cohort-based, interactive learning experience is the most effective way to get the power of persuasive copywriting. This isn't a series of pre-recorded lectures - This is a virtual classroom environment where you get results - in class! Every piece of copy you need to launch your product, service, membership, course or offer will be completed by the end of this program. You'll learn how and when to deploy each piece, AND have your copy reviewed by expert copywriters and your cohorts. The doors close soon, so don't wait - click here to reserve your seat. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	5 Failure Factors of Highly Ineffective Entrepreneurs	05 Jul 2021	00:19:37
This week, I'm asking you to do some self-reflection (check yourself, before you wreck yourself.) I'm offering you 5 "Failure Factors" that can paralyze entrepreneurs if left unchecked. The good news is this: Even if you see some, or all of these factors in yourself, there is a simple solution. That's what I'm giving you in this week's episode. Spiritual Foundations "In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly." - Psalm 5:3, NIV How is it possible to stay spiritually centered in a world prone to chaos? This verse from Psalm gives us a pretty good recipe: Start your morning by speaking God - Then LISTEN for His voice throughout the rest of the day. Tip Of The Week Here's an app that fixes a recurring, expensive problem for many of us: Forgetting to cancel things we're not using. You may even see the charge pop up and think, "Oh yeah, I need to cancel that.", but the subscription rolls on for a few months until you actually do it. Truebill takes care of this in a simple, almost magical way. It keeps track of all your subscriptions and allows you to cancel unwanted ones with a single click. Amazing! Feature Presentation This week, I'm breaking down 5 factors that can be dream-killing kryptonite for entrepreneurs: Drifting (You MUST NOT drift. You need an intentional destination) Complaining (If you're complaining about things that are not in your control, stop it. If you're complaining about things you can control, stop it...and fix the thing that you're complaining about.) "Victiming" (It might give you some quick pain relief, but this fixes nothing) Comparison vs. Creation (Don't worry about who's doing it better, keep creating! The more you create, the better you will get) Procrastinate vs. Publish (You're not perfect. You're content will not be perfect. Don't let striving for perfection lead you to producing nothing.) Links From This Episode Write an Email Series That Sells - My free workshop that happens on July 8, 2021. This is a live, cohort-based workshop that will teach you how to create must-open subject lines and how to sell using stories. If you want a sample of how effective this style of learning is, just sign up and show up...no investment required. Truebill - No more forgotten free-trials or hidden subscriptions. Track them all and cancel with a click. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	No Right Way To Do This	13 Mar 2024	00:13:27
This week, I'm answering some of the most common questions I'm receiving from listeners, viewers, and readers. Since they keep coming up (some for many years), I feel that my answers will be helpful to more than just those who took the time to ask. If I missed anything (or Heaven forbid, you disagree), feel free to leave a comment, or reach out to support@rayedwards.com. Key Insights What do I do in this economy? This question doesn't always end with "economy"...It could be any number of this's...this election year, this time of civil unrest, this whatever... Be aware of what's happening in the world around you, and make sure you're playing both the short-term and long-term game. Do the work you're being paid for today, and plant the seeds for the income you will reap in the future. What if I don't like my business anymore? - Remember this: You should never make long-term, life-altering decisions based on a current "bad season" in your work. In other words, be sure you actually don't enjoy what you're doing, and you're not just reacting to some current, emotion-fueled unpleasantness. At the end of the day, you don't need anyone's permission to do something else (unless you have a spouse...then you probably want to bring them into the loop). How do I build my business the right way? - Life is not a flowchart. There is no step-by-step plan I can hand you for this. And yes, I teach people proven business plans, BUT, at the end of the day, the "right way" is "their way". That's why most of the time, I teach those plans in an interactive format (like my upcoming workshop) so I can answer the questions that help attendees translate what they learn into their plan. If you could only give me 1 piece of advice to guide me through building my own business, what would it be? - Writing is the way to get everything you want in life. I'm not exclusively talking about copywriting. Tune in for my complete breakdown of why that's my answer. Video And Transcript https://www.rayedwards.com/651 How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in Apple Podcasts or on Spotify, and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. Questions or comments? Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook – This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs, and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	How We Hit Our First 100% Success Rate	28 Jun 2021	00:23:19
In this week's episode I want to talk about what I believe to be the future of online education - Cohort Based Learning. This isn't a new concept, but it IS revolutionary. After all, a revolution is simply a return to the beginning. Cohort-Based learning fills in the missing pieces that we sacrifice when we're not in a physical classroom: The interaction, the community, the time constraints, the accountability...those are all invaluable educational tools that are stripped away with traditional digital courses. This Cohort-Based format is why, after over a decade of teaching, I had my first 100% successful completion rate. Not completion as in "people showed up and listened to me lecture them"...Completion as in, they showed up and DID THE WORK they came to learn how to do. Whether you're the teacher or the student, this is the format that will get you the results you're looking for. I'll break down all the why's in this week's episode. Spiritual Foundations "A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes rich." - Proverbs 10:4, EIV Is this God's warning to us that unless we toil our life away we will have nothing? No. This is God's reminder to work diligently - Do the right work, at the right time, in the right way. Tip Of The Week My tip this week is to get your Inbox organized with the help of Sanebox. Sanebox uses advanced AI to organize your email, keeping only the right stuff in your inbox. I know the email client or website you use probably has filters and rules to organize your email, but you likely don't use them and even if you do...Sanebox does it better. Click here to learn how. Feature Presentation This episode was inspired by two things: A course I recently taught, and an amazing article by Wes Kao. Before I get started, let me say that I don't think traditional, prerecorded digital courses are going away. This is still an on-demand world and there will be those who prefer the self-paced, self-study route...especially if it's a subject that they're kind of interested in. However, for most serious students who have made the commitment to learn AND implement the material, I believe the cohort model is supreme. Okay, enough disclaiming...back to my two reasons for choosing this topic. The 100% Success Rate in the title isn't click-bait. It is a fact, and it was a first for me...literally. This was the first time that EVERY student not only learned the material, but also put it to use and produced a quality product that they were satisfied with. Don't get me wrong, I'm accustomed to seeing some success, but not this level...not everyone. Imagine if you owned a gym and on January 2nd, you got that huge wave of new customers who were determined to get in shape. Only, instead of quitting in a matter of weeks (or days), they all put in the work and actually achieved their goals. Buying a digital course is like joining a gym...it's the easy part. Doing the work is a different story. The results achieved in that class made me rethink my entire system of educating. People don't want a gym membership...they want the transformation. The cohort environment forced them to interact, to write, to revise, to be engaged - To do the work. If you're a course creator, you need to become intimately familiar with this format. This is what most of your students will be looking for. If you deliver can deliver what they want, your course completion rate, customer satisfaction rate, reviews, testimonials and revenue will be dramatically amplified. I want to acknowledge the author of the article I quoted extensively in this week's podcast, Wes Kao. I highly recommend you take a few minutes and read it in its entirety. Links From This Episode Write an Email Series That Sells - My free workshop that happens on July 8, 2021. This is a live, cohort-based workshop that will teach you how to create must-open subject lines and how to sell using stories. If you want a sample of how effective this style of learning is, just sign up and show up...no investment required. Sanebox - The most advanced Inbox organizer I've ever used. In Online Ed, Content Is No Longer King—Cohorts Are - Future - Brilliant article by Wes Kao - a MUST READ for anyone who creates digital courses. Be Your Own Copywriter - This is my new Cohort-Based course that will not only teach you how to write engaging copy that transforms your readers, viewers, members and followers into customers - BUT also helps you get the work done, in class - with support from me, my team of coaches, and your fellow cohorts. When you finish this live course, you will have every piece of copy you need to launch or re-launch your product, written, reviewed and ready for launch. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Get 1 Million Views of YOUR Video on Tik Tok	21 Jun 2021	00:22:36
Tik Tok may have started as a platform built for teens and tweens to post dancing videos and the like, but that is NOT what it is today. These days, it's a viable platform for marketing yourself and your business. But wait...there are plenty of those, why would you need another? Because, unlike most of the other big players, Tik Tok does not require you have a huge following before giving you exposure to their users. It's a viral-video machine and if you know how to put the right ingredients in, you can see growth at a speed that no other platform offers. My guest this week is a Tik Tok pro named Bryan Switalski. Bryan knows the viral-video recipe and he's got some great tips on how you can get started, TODAY. Spiritual Foundations Looking for some free business advice? Why not check in with the number-one business consultant I'm aware of...God! I know that some feel the need to keep those world's separate and that God has bigger fish to fry than helping you with business problems (or your football team's victory), but...I have evidence to the contrary. "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." - James 1:5, NIV There is a great example of God's desire to partner with human beings to accomplish his purposes, and we'll dive into that in this week's episode. Tip Of The Week My tip this week is for an app called Boosted. This app is for those who want to create slick-looking videos for social media, without being a pro (or without paying a pro). You can quickly crank out impressive video that is formatted appropriately for whatever platform you choose. They also have a huge stock library of free videos. If you find one that fits your brand, you can actually have a video that uses pro-grade footage and impressive graphics in a matter of minutes. Definitely worth a look! Feature Presentation Tik Tok is huge with its millions of users. It's also hugely misunderstood by many entrepreneurs who have dismissed it as a place for kids to hang out. The platform was definitely focused on and built by the young, but much has changed. Millions of adults (your customers) are spending an incredible amount of time on Tik Tok, AND (this is where it gets really good for you) - YOU can have a video that gets thousands, even MILLIONS, of views, WITHOUT being a celebrity, or having a huge following. Bryan Switalksi is a StoryBrand Certified Guide & Business Coach who will share a (very recent) story of how one of his clients "blew up" overnight by posting the right kind of video. This is a highly motivating, take-action episode that will eliminate some of the myths associated with Tik Tok. If you've ever thought "I wish I would've gotten on _________ earlier.", then here's a chance at redemption. Links From This Episode Boosted - Generate professional looking videos, sized appropriately for all the major platforms, with just a few clicks. Bryan Switalski - Learn more about Bryan and his services at https://www.leverageclarity.com Bryan's Free Tik Tok Guide - This is a GREAT RESOURCE to get started with Tik Tok and Bryan is providing it for free. Be Your Own Copywriter - This is my new Cohort-Based course that will not only teach you how to write engaging copy that transforms your readers, viewers, members and followers into customers - BUT also helps you get the work done, in class - with support from me, my team of coaches, and your fellow cohorts. When you finish this live course, you will have every piece of copy you need to launch or re-launch your product, written, reviewed and ready for launch. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.
	Monetize Your Message	16 Jun 2021	00:42:57
I’ve got a couple of big, epiphany inducing, points to share in this week’s episode, and I can’t wait for you to jump in. The first is a personal revelation that I’ve had that will be impactful for anyone who makes or takes a digital course: Cohort-Based Learning. If you sell (or plan to sell) a course, there’s something you need to know: It won’t work for everyone...because not everyone works. It can be frustrating to share your best content (content that was life-changing for you) with someone who does nothing with it. You’re giving them the power to achieve their goals, but they choose not to use it. While there is no universal cure for that scenario, I will say that the recent cohort-based courses I have taught have been my most productive...ever. In fact, in the course we just finished, EVERY STUDENT completed the course with their work finished, reviewed and ready to roll. They were ALL satisfied because they had something valuable to show for their efforts (and their investment). It seems counter to the on-demand world that we live in, but Live Content and Collaboration are HUGE learning tools that I intend to put to use as much as possible in my business. We’ll dive into that a little in this podcast, but I intend to do an entire episode devoted to this system (and HOW to do it), coming soon. The second big takeaway this week comes from my friend, Jonathan Milligan, and has the honor of being this week’s Feature Presentation. Spiritual Foundations This week, I want to discuss the perils of prosperity. I do not subscribe to the Prosperity Gospel, which roughly means that if you’re a good Christian, Jesus will reward you with a Rolex watch or other such material things. Hogwash. However, this does not mean that I find the pursuit of wealth to be evil or immoral. If your aim of building wealth is so that you can lord it over other people, I believe there is something spiritually unhealthy about that, but money itself is not evil. “...the distortions of something good must not cause us to think that the thing itself is evil.” - Wayne Grudem Money itself is a good thing and gives us many opportunities to glorify God. My challenge to you is this: Over the next week or two, find ways to use your money to glorify God...without just giving it away (at least not yet). Think about that and then put it into practice. I'd love to hear what you came up with, so feel free to comment below. Tip Of The Week My tip this week is for an app, and… sorry, Android users, this one is IOS only. If you’ve ever needed to remove the background from a photo for use in online content and had minimal success with complicated apps, like Photoshop, you must try Pixel Cut. This app can magically accomplish the task I just described and rather than me telling you how impressed I am, I think it’s best you just see it in action. Check it out at https://pixelcut.app. Feature Presentation Jonathan Milligan's latest book, Your Message Matters, is an important read for anyone who has the Why would anyone want to learn from me? mentality that’s keeping them from getting started. This is the biggest sticking point I’ve witnessed in wannabe entrepreneurs. Before they even get to the other popular show stopping excuses - The “but I don’t have” list… (But I don’t have a website… But I don’t have an email list… But I don’t have any followers… etc.) They first struggle with, “Why me? Why would anyone want to learn what I know, and why would they choose to learn from me?" If you’re in that position, please understand that I’m not trying to minimize your feelings. I had the same doubts initially, but guess what… I was wrong. And, so are you. In this week’s feature presentation, Jonathan and I discuss some of the big points from the book, like, “How to rise above the noise and get paid for what you know.” Links From This Episode Get Jonathan Milligan's book, Your Message Matters, here (U.S. residents can get a free copy at that link) Be Your Own Copywriter - This is my new Cohort-Based course that will not only teach you how to write engaging copy that transforms your readers, viewers, members and followers into customers - BUT also helps you get the work done, in class - with support from me, my team of coaches, and your fellow cohorts. When you finish this live course, you will have every piece of copy you need to launch or re-launch your product, written, reviewed and ready for launch. How You Can Help Subscribe to the show in iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will definitely mention you on this show. We are also on Stitcher.com, so if you prefer Stitcher, please subscribe there. Connect with Ray on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram Visit Ray's community on Facebook - This is a friendly group of writers, entrepreneurs and coaches who share ideas and helpful advice.

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