Explore every episode of the podcast The Best Guest

In this episode, Victoria speaks with Erika Reed, author of The Gift of Time: How AI Transforms Your Purpose and Our World, about the positive potential of artificial intelligence. Rather than focusing on job displacement, Erika explores how AI could actually give us more time and what we might do with it. Discover why autonomous vehicles aren't just about convenience, how Gen Z is already signalling the future, and what Henry Ford's five-day workweek can teach us about technological transformation.

About Erika

Erika Debrah Reed is a strategist for one of the world's largest retail organizations, where she predicts the future of commerce through a deep understanding of human behavior and emerging technology. Operating at the intersection of commercial real estate and transportation engineering, she explores how AI and autonomous mobility will reshape society. Erika began her career in civil engineering before earning a Master of Engineering Management from Northwestern University's McCormick School of Engineering and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management. She is the author of The Gift of Time: How AI Transforms Your Purpose and Our World (September 2026).

Key Takeaways

• AI offers an opportunity to reclaim creativity and identity by freeing up time previously spent on mundane tasks
• Autonomous vehicles aren't just about transportation, they're already here (Tesla Robotaxis, Waymo, Zoox) and rolling out across US cities
• Gen Z is signalling the future: only 63% are getting driver's licences, compared to 80–90% a few decades ago, preferring autonomous vehicles
• A shortened work week powered by AI productivity could improve job satisfaction, energy, and wellbeing when time is intentionally reclaimed
• AI literacy isn't optional, it's already embedded throughout society and needs to be taught in education systems
• The rise of 'human premium' means people will increasingly pay for authenticity, handmade goods, and human-created experiences as digital advances
• Safety data is compelling: over 40,000 people die annually from human driving errors, making autonomous vehicles a safer alternative
• New industries and economic opportunities will emerge from the 'time dividend' AI creates

Quote"I see AI as something that can bring back our humanness. The public needs to believe in what is possible, and that's why I wanted to be the voice of this." — Erika ReedConnect with Erika Reed

Website: http://erikaintelligence.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikadreed

Substack: https://substack.com/@erikaintelligence

Book Tour Events

September 17th, the Park Club, Newport Beach

October 24th, Chapter One, Mendham, New Jersey

Check erikaintelligence.com for details of these and other events.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

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Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

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In this episode we welcome Audrey Faust, The Manifesting CFO to the podcast. We talk about:

• Why so many women build successful businesses and still feel sick at the thought of opening their own accounts.
• Why a bookkeeper and a CPA are not enough once you hit multi six figures
• The mindset work that has to happen before anyone looks at a profit and loss statement.

About Audrey Faust

Audrey Faust, MBA is The Manifesting CFO, a CFO strategist who works with financially phobic women business owners at the multi six and seven figure level. She is a 2x Amazon bestselling author and host of the Manifest, Manage and Multiply Money podcast. Her clients grow their profit between 20 and 100 percent, but the transformation they talk about most is finally feeling safe enough to look at their numbers and having the confidence and clarity to lead like the CEO of their business.

Key Takeaways

• You do not need to be "good at maths" to understand your financial information - that is what computers are for. The fear is about judgment, not arithmetic.
• Your subconscious runs around 95% of your 80,000 daily thoughts, and its job is to keep you safe. Beliefs absorbed in childhood about money and rich people quietly drive business decisions decades later.
• A bookkeeper does data entry and a CPA has hundreds of clients. Neither is sitting inside your business helping you make decisions with the numbers - that is a CFO's job, and it matters most from multi six figures onwards.
• Know your "monthly nut": the number your business needs to keep the lights on. Knowing it is what lets you sleep at night.
• Comparing this month to the same month last year takes the emotion out of a quiet patch, and stops the downward spiral.
• Audrey's Manifest, Manage and Multiply framework always starts with the money story, never with QuickBooks.
• Mindset work comes first because some women carry real trauma around money - being stolen from, or money being used to control them.
• Reframe the numbers as empowerment rather than judgment. Showing a client the $2.5 million she had created over ten years changed everything.

QuoteYou don't need to be good at numbers. That's what computers are for. - Audrey FaustMentioned in This Episode

Download this Guided Meditation to Release Fear of Looking at Your Money - a seven minute guided meditation with binaural beats, designed to settle your nervous system before you open QuickBooks, your bank account, or that email from your CPA. https://www.audreyfaustconsulting.com/meditation

The CEO Money Rewire — a free private five part audio series for service based business owners who are secretly afraid of their own numbers.

audreyfaustconsulting.com/moneyrewire

Audrey's Podcast Interview with her client Kim: Two Years Ago She Was Stuck. Today She's Multi-Seven Figures: Kim Mohr on the Capacity Problem That Changed Everything

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/two-years-ago-she-was-stuck-today-shes-multi-seven/id1892019963?i=1000774833439

Connect with Audrey Faust

Website: https://audreyfaustconsulting.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audreyfaust/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manifesting_cfo/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/manifestingcfo/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheManifestingCFO

Podcast: — Manifest, Manage and Multiply Money: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/manifest-manage-and-multiply-money-podcast/id1892019963

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this episode, Victoria sits down with Dr DDnard, spiritual teacher, meditation guide, and founder of the Zoul App, whose story of transformation began with losing her husband, a newborn son, and inheriting $3 million in debt. Within seven months she had paid it all off, and within two years had multiplied her income tenfold internationally. Today she runs free global retreats for thousands of people across the world, teaching them how to heal, reframe challenges, and attract abundance.

About DDnard

Dr. Ddnard Napattalung is the founder of nine global investment companies focused on fintech, health tech, mental health, A.I., digital banking, human development, and transformational publishing in Dubai, UK, Hong Kong, Singapore and Monaco.

She founded Zoul, a leading mental health, wellbeing, and sleep app.

Dr. D.D is the author of the Life Compass book series with over 3 million readers and an award winner of the Women Changing the World Award for her leadership in investment, philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and wellbeing.

Key Takeaways

• Things happen for you, not to you, even when they feel devastating in the moment
• Start from abundance, not lack. Gratitude for what you already have is what attracts more
• Write down your debts and face them head-on. Avoidance prolongs the pain, clarity creates solutions
• Your frequency, intention, and mindset determine what shows up in your life
• Joy isn't a reward for when things improve, it's the tool that makes things improve

Quote...faith is being thankful when it's still on its way. But by having that faith, it makes everything you want appear faster and in a better condition than you can ever imagine.Mentioned in This Episode

Zoul App: https://www.zoul.app/

Connect with Dr DDnard

Website - https://www.drddnard.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ddnard

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ddnard/

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome Dementia with Dignity Champion and author, Jo-Anne Ross.

We talk about:

• Why Jo-Anne's personal experience caring for her mother with dementia ignited her mission to transform the landscape of care
• Her visionary concept for a dementia village that prioritises dignity, joy, community, and connection with nature right to the very last breath
• Her seven-week Me First workshop methodology, designed to equip families and caregivers with practical self-care tools so they can give from a full vessel

About Jo-Anne Ross

Jo-Anne Ross is a Dementia with Dignity Champion, workshop facilitator, and multi-book author based in Canada. After spending nine months as the primary caregiver for her mother, Jo-Anne developed the Me First methodology to support families and caregivers navigating the emotional and practical challenges of dementia. She is currently developing a holistic dementia village concept and is the author of several books, with three more in progress.

Key Takeaways

• If someone you love is showing signs of forgetfulness or behavioural changes, ask a doctor to test for a urinary tract infection before assuming dementia, as UTIs are frequently misdiagnosed
• Dementia is also known as Type 3 Diabetes and reducing sugar intake can play a role in brain health
• Caregivers must prioritise their own wellbeing first, because you cannot pour from an empty cup
• Every dementia journey is unique, so research and tools need to be adapted to the individual
• Intergenerational, community-centred living benefits everyone, not just those with dementia

QuoteEvery single human being on this planet deserves to live with dignity and respect, joy and fun and community and quality of life, right to the very last breath." Jo-Anne RossConnect with Jo-Anne Ross

Website: savourthemomentinserenity.ca

Free Gift (Seven Things You Should Know About Dementia)

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome social media trainer and consultant, Hana Jay Klokner.

We talk about:

• Why even big brands don't have social media figured out and what that means for you
• How to create content in a scalable, sustainable way
• The challenges personal brands face and how to overcome self-doubt to show up online

Hana Klokner is a social media trainer and consultant with over a decade of experience working with businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to global organisations including Amazon and the United Nations. Originally from Slovakia, Hana began her digital journey at just 15 as a blogger and editor, later going on to teach at the University of the Arts London (UAL) for seven years. She specialises in helping business owners and personal brands develop their social media strategy and find their authentic voice online.

Key Takeaways

• Big brands don't have it all figured out and emotional connection matters more than budget
• Start creating content yourself before delegating as no one will capture your voice better than you
• Use ChatGPT to repurpose existing content like podcast transcripts and website copy
• Aim for 2 to 3 posts per week and batch create content in a single afternoon session
• If you've taken a break from social media, come back slowly, share what feels natural, and don't come from the wound, come from the scar
• Start on the platform that feels most comfortable and build your confidence from there

"It's not about having it all done and being perfect. It's about the contribution you're making to a community." Hana KloknerConnect with Hana Jay Klokner

Website: https://hanajayklokner.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hanajaykloknerofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanajayklokner

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

Natalie Tealdi from The Best Podcast Guest team welcomes death doula, end-of-life educator, transformational soul coach, author and national advocate for grief literacy, Julie Wright Halbert to the podcast.

They talk about:

1. The role of a death doula
2. What it means to live and die awake
3. What grieving people truly need from others

About Julie Wright Halbert

Julie Wright Halbert, Esq. is a death doula, end-of-life educator, transformational soul coach, author and national advocate for grief literacy whose work bridges legal rigor, lived experience, and soul-centered presence.

A former Legislative Counsel for the Council of the Great City Schools, Julie spent decades shaping education policy and advancing civil rights, earning multiple honors including the Education Law Association’s Best Brief Award for impactful work before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Julie’s professional path pivoted following the sudden death of her husband, an experience that transformed her relationship to grief, identity, and meaning. What emerged was a calling to accompany individuals and families through the complex terrain of dying, death, and bereavement work that emphasizes presence over fixing, honesty over platitudes, and dignity at every stage of life.

Today, Julie speaks and writes about death literacy, widowhood, emotional integration, and the cultural consequences of avoiding mortality. Her work invites individuals, professionals, and institutions to engage death not as a failure, but as a profound human threshold that shapes how we live, love, and lead.

Julie is the founder of Rising Phoenix LIFE, where she integrates end-of-life education, grief support, and advocacy to support people navigating life’s most significant transitions. She is the author of the forthcoming book Divine Ashes Ascending, which explores grief, presence, and the possibility of meaning after profound loss.

Julie’s work has been featured in: The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, NPR, Education Week, and The 74.

She lives a life grounded in nature and connection, finding restoration through water activities, hiking, snow skiing, and time with her two sons and life partner.

Key Takeaways

1. Loss reshapes our identity and the way we move through the world. While grief never truly disappears, we can learn to carry it with meaning and compassion.
2. Living 'awake' means being fully present in each moment, approaching life with intention, gratitude, and connection.
3. Grieving can feel isolating, but healing often begins when we allow others to support us and accept help from our community.
4. Many cultures avoid conversations about death, yet openness around the end of life can help reduce fear and create more meaningful experiences for individuals and families.
5. Death doulas support people emotionally, spiritually, and practically at the end of life, helping individuals plan how they wish to experience their final stage of life.

QuoteGrief doesn’t just end. It’s something that we carry and we learn to move into presence.Connect with Julie Wright Halbert

Website: www.RisingPhoenix.life

Instagram: instagram.com/transformational_soul_coaching

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/julie-wright-halbert

Julie's free gift to you is a meditation which is designed to support growth, clarity, and emotional alignment. It can be accessed here: https://risingphoenix.life/?scroll_to=meditations

Connect with The Best Podcast Guest Team

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Founder, Victoria Bennion on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode, hosted by our Digital Business Manager, Natalie Tealdi, we welcome intuitive teacher and author Kate Saint Clair, who shares her journey from dismissing her intuitive gifts as a child to building a career helping others understand and trust their own inner guidance - something that every entrepreneur, creative, and business owner relies on, whether they realize it or not.

About Kate Saint Clair

Kate Saint Clair is a Human Intuition Expert, Psychic Medium, and Intuitive Advocate devoted to helping people remember and trust the wisdom already living within them. Born highly intuitive, Kate found strength through her challenging childhood with her connection to the spiritual world.

Since 2007, she has been guiding individuals to reconnect with their natural intuitive abilities—not as something mystical or exclusive, but as a practical, embodied skill meant to support everyday life.

Kate’s work centers on normalizing intuition and removing the fear, confusion, and self-doubt that often surround it. She teaches that every person is born with an accurate internal guidance system and that intuition becomes most powerful when it is understood, practiced, and trusted with clarity and discernment.

Through her book Be Guided & Be Great, live programs, and ongoing communities like ‘The Clair Club’, Kate creates grounded, validating spaces where intuition can be explored safely and confidently. Her approach blends spiritual depth with real-world integration, helping people recognize how intuition shows up through the Clairs—clear knowing, feeling, seeing, hearing, and sensing.

Known for her warm presence and direct insight, Kate empowers her clients to move from second-guessing themselves to living with greater confidence, alignment, and self-trust. Her work is an invitation to come home to yourself and live guided from the inside out.

When she’s not working, Kate enjoys spending time with her family, listening to podcasts when she is out walking or going for a run and spending time in nature as much as she can.

Key Takeaways

1. Everyone Is Intuitive — Most People Just Don’t Have the Language for It
2. Untrained Intuition Can Feel Like Anxiety or Overwhelm
3. Intuition Comes Through the “Claires”
4. Skepticism Isn’t the Opposite of Intuition
5. Strengthening Intuition Is a Skill, Not a Gift You Either Have or Don’t

Quote“You’re already intuitive. It’s not something you have to become. It’s something you learn to understand.”
Mentioned in This Episode

Find out which Clair you use the most to access your personal Intuition’: https://www.katesaintclair.com/quiz

Connect with Kate Saint Clair

Website: www.katesaintclair.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katesaintclair/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@katestclair

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100014002215835

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

Transcript

Victoria Bennion: [00:00:00] Hello and welcome. I'm your host, Victoria Bennion, and the founder of the best podcast guest booking agency. And you're listening to the best guest, the podcast for business owners, creatives, and entrepreneurs who want to harness the power of podcasts to grow their platforms and increase their visibility.

We're here to support you on your journey, bringing you actionable tips with each episode. Now let's begin.

Natalie Tealdi: Hello, I'm Natalie Tealdi, digital business manager here at the best podcast guest booking agency. Today I'm hosting this conversation with the wonderful Kate Sinclair. Kate is a human intuition expert, psychic, medium, and intuitive advocate who has been teaching intuition as a practical, embodied skill since 2007.

Welcome to the podcast, Kate. It's great to have you with us today.

Kate Saint Clair: Thank you. I'm excited to be here.

Natalie Tealdi: Can you start by telling us how [00:01:00] you first realized you were intuitive, and what was the moment that made you stop dismissing it?

Kate Saint Clair: Yeah, I mean when I was young there was not a word for it, so I didn't know what to call it. I just kind of call it this weird thing and I don't really have a memory of not, when I was a little kid that did, my grandfather had passed away, decades before I was born. And I remember being like four years old at the my grandma's breakfast table and they were talking about him and I was wondering why they weren't talking to him.

'Cause I could sense that he was sitting there with us and I just thought why are they ignoring him? So I remember putting those pieces together around four, and when I was a little girl, I'd see a little, I thought they were black cougars, but usually they were just kind of an animal spirit that would come out at night.

And of course I just thought it was my imagination. But I mean, I would sprint to my mom and dad's room for fear and it would take me 30 years to realize that was a spirit animal and they would be around me at a certain time when my family was about to [00:02:00] break apart through a divorce. So they kind of appeared at the right time.

But as a little kid, I was just absolutely terrified. And, I just kind of always knew stuff about people and I'd kind of say it out loud and then I'd get in trouble for telling secrets. But I, I was like, I didn't have a thought. It just kind of came outta my mouth. So lots of that, like kind of lots of getting or kind of having a bad feeling about somebody as a child.

And then maybe lots of we don't wanna judge people or, you shouldn't say that. Or, so there was a lot of what I've just called. I just, that's weird. That's weird. That's weird. And kind of making the, those, putting those pieces together, like why are they ignoring the, my grandfather?

Or why are they ignoring, this spirit or that spirit, which I didn't know there was a word for it back then. I just thought they were, Hey, that's a person and that's my grandfather.

Natalie Tealdi: Yeah.

Kate Saint Clair: It took, when did I realize it? I was much older and it was more of a thing I tried to not do. I tried to not say stuff.

I tried to not see stuff, so it was, I was very much in my [00:03:00] twenties before I was like, okay, maybe I could actually get some help for this or see if other people feel this way. And that's when it was probably definitely in my twenties where I was like. This is maybe something I wanna figure out instead of just trying to run away from, or convince myself I'm not seeing or feeling what I am

Natalie Tealdi: Yeah, I suppose it must be really in easy to kind of rationalize those things

Kate Saint Clair: imaginary friend, you know, we have terms for this stuff, mother's intuition, get it. And like we have very sad terms. I consider them sad terms, but we're just trying to language. Something we kind of don't understand. And that's why I made it my life's mission to understand it and put proper language to it so we can all see it within us.

'cause I didn't feel special. I could see it in other people, it's just mine was kind of off the charts and I didn't know what to do with it other than convince myself I was imagining it and it wasn't happening.

Natalie Tealdi: Yeah, I can imagine. It must feel a bit scary as well.

Kate Saint Clair: It was scary. Yeah, definitely.

Natalie Tealdi: Yeah. And many people say, [00:04:00] I'm not intuitive, but what do you believe is really happening when someone feels disconnected from their intuition?

Kate Saint Clair: Oh yeah. I think there's several layers to this, but I think at a minimum, again, the common language, we, until you understand it, we think it's kind of a one-off thing. It's I had a gut feeling. And we don't say that every day, but really you do use your intuition every day.

Let's just say if you're in your hometown and nothing changes, you don't really need to use...

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome The Brain Energy Reboot Expert, Moira Newiss.

We talk about:

• Ketogenic & Metabolic Mental Health
• Mitochondria, Brain Energy & Fatigue
• Autoimmune Conditions & the Carnivore Diet

About Moira Newiss

Moira Newiss is a BANT registered nutritional therapist, health coach and accredited ketogenic metabolic therapy expert who specialises in brain energy, one of the recently discovered root causes of many mental health problems.

Moira’s passion for metabolic mental health was sparked after a 20-year career as a senior NHS manager, managing hundreds of staff and multi-million-pound budgets. Following burnout, chronic fatigue and mental illness, she retrained at the Institute for Optimum Nutrition and became fascinated by the link between energy, mood, mental health and metabolic health. 

Moira works with individuals who have conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, who have often not found a resolution with medication or psychological support alone. Her personalised approach has helped hundreds to improve their symptoms, with some achieving full remission, that means reversal, of their condition.

A regular conference speaker, Moira co-authored the first mental health guidelines for nutritional therapists and published the case report ‘Remission of Schizophrenia Using a Carnivore Ketogenic Metabolic Therapy with Nutritional Therapy Practitioner Support’.

Moira is lucky to live on the beautiful west coast of Scotland where she has a large garden, grows her own fruit and vegetables and has a lovely flock of hens. She also loves adventure, regularly climbing mountains, bike packing and hiking in remote spots on short expeditions.

Key Takeaways

For some people, shifting from glucose to ketone fuel can rapidly improve brain fog, mood, and energy.

Common keto pitfalls include undereating fat and overeating protein

Sleep, morning light, reduced evening blue light, and gentle movement support brain energy and mood.

Short-term carnivore diet can be a powerful elimination protocol to calm inflammation, heal the gut and identify food triggers.

Dairy-free keto is doable - use coconut fats, olive oil, tallow/lard, fatty fish; check labels on “milks” for hidden carbs.

QuoteI had planned to do a hundred kilometre bike ride, and I remember crossing the finishing line thinking—and I was crying ’cause it was just an emotional thing—I just knew I cracked it. I just knew the energy was there. I’d cycled a hundred kilometres with no carbohydrates.Connect with Moira Newiss

Website: https://www.moiranewiss.co.uk/ 

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/moiranewiss 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moira-newiss/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@moiranewiss

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

Transcript

Victoria Bennion: [00:00:00] Hello and welcome. I'm your host, Victoria

Bennion, and the founder of the best podcast guest booking agency. And you're

listening to the best guest, the podcast for business owners, creatives, and

entrepreneurs who want to harness the power of podcasts to grow their platforms

and increase their visibility.

We're here to support you on your journey, bringing you

actionable tips with each episode. Now let's begin.

Today I am joined by Moira Newiss, who is a BANT registered

nutritional therapist, health coach, and accredited ketogenic metabolic therapy

expert who specializes in brain energy, one of the recently discovered root

causes of many mental health problems. Good morning Moira. Welcome to the show.

Moira Newiss:

Morning, Victoria. Thank you for having me.

Victoria Bennion: How

are you today?

Moira Newiss: I'm

good. The sun's shining here, so Yeah, I'm happy and well

Victoria Bennion:

you're very lucky. We have solid rain.

Moira Newiss: I'm

quite lucky it's not always like this on the west coast of Scotland, but [00:01:00] it's lovely today.

Victoria Bennion: Oh,

that's very nice. What a lovely part the world to live in as well.

Moira Newiss: Yeah,

absolutely.

Victoria Bennion:

When did your passion for metabolic mental health begin?

Moira Newiss: It's

been a bit of a journey for me. So this was partly going back through my own

personal health journey when I struggled with mental health and chronic

fatigue. Having been through a period of burnout when I was an NHS senior

manager. And then along the way, I kind of, I didn't know anything about

metabolic mental health to begin with, but I had to find my own way to wellness

again.

I tried various things to start with including things like deep

breathing eating better, spending time in nature, lots of different things. And

I did get a bit better, but it wasn't really until I trialed a ketogenic diet,

when I was actually starting to retrain in nutritional therapy.

That it was just like a light bulb moment. Something just

seemed to work much better. My brain fog cleared and my brain fog had been

really severe. So, you know, and I was really [00:02:00]

struggling with my, mental health. You know, I thought my family would be

better off without me. It was quite a dark place at times.

And when I tried a ketogenic diet, I discovered the power of

ketones, really, which is what happens when you begin to eat a very high fat,

low carbohydrate diet? Your body makes ketone bodies as a fuel and they can

fuel your brain just as effectively as your body. That was really when I first

discovered what I would call metabolic medicine for mental health, and then

I've gone on to specialize, and train more and learn more about it.

I became fascinated really about, about metabolic health.

Victoria Bennion:

Wow, was it hard to switch over to a ketogenic diet?

Moira Newiss: It was

a little bit of a challenge to start with. You've got to to start with, I

wasn't testing my blood, so I was doing it just by calculating what I was

eating, like looking at the macro content of the diet. So how much

carbohydrates, how much fat I was eating. Originally it was a little bit of a

challenge, finding my way through that on my own.

And then afterwards I discovered that, you could do other

things. You could, [00:03:00] you had to take

more account of protein, which I hadn't really understood to begin with. So

really a ketogenic diet is the ratio of fat to carbohydrates and protein

combined. And there are different levels of ketogenic diet, so different

ratios.

So you could be looking. A one-to-one ratio, which would be one

gram of fat for every combined one gram of fat and protein. Or you could be

looking at higher ratio, like a two to one, which is often what we're using in

metabolic mental health. And you can test your blood ketones to get an idea of

where you are actually sitting, which is something I now regularly do with all

my clients.

So I've learned as I went, what would work, what wouldn't work?

And often one of the mistakes people do make is that either they're just not

eating enough fat, because a lot of us are brought up thinking fat's bad for

you. You are worried about things like, is it gonna cause cardiovascular

disease?

So that's a concern. So people often unre the fat when they

drop the carbs, and you don't really have enough energy if you do that because

carbs don't factor your fuels. But also sometimes people overeat protein and

that actually can [00:04:00] end up just

breaking down into glucose. So you're not really using fat as a fuel again.

So there's a few things that I've learned along the way as part

of that process.

Victoria...

In this week’s episode of The Best Guest podcast, we welcome Carol Look, psychotherapist, Founding EFT Master, and author of Yes, Thank You - Tapping Into the Superpower of Gratitude. Carol explains how consistent gratitude practices can transform your brain chemistry, reduce stress, and improve sleep and emotional wellbeing. She dives into the science-backed benefits of gratitude, why we subconsciously avoid happiness, and how EFT tapping can remove deep-rooted emotional blocks that hold us back.

About Carol Look

Carol Look is a psychotherapist, Founding EFT Master, best-selling author, international speaker, and creator of The Yes Code, her signature coaching method. She combines her traditional training as a psychotherapist with clinical hypnosis and advanced applications of EFT for unprecedented results with her clients.

Known for her laser-like focus and state-of-the-art approach, Carol has used EFT Tapping for over 25 years to help clients release their limiting beliefs and emotional conflicts so they can enjoy lives of exceptional success and fulfillment.

Carol is a world-renowned EFT workshop presenter who has taught at The Omega Institute, Kripalu, The Eden Energy Fest, and the energy field’s primary teaching conference, ACEP.

Carol has taught workshops in England, The Netherlands, Belgium, France, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and all over the United States. She is a regularly featured energy medicine expert on leading global telesummits and in the field’s leading documentaries.

Carol authored the energy field’s original book on abundance, Attracting Abundance with EFT. Her book, The Yes Code, became a #1 Amazon bestseller in several categories, solidifying her reputation as a leading voice in personal transformation. She has just released her newest book, Yes Thank You: Tapping Into the Superpower of Gratitude.

When she’s not working, Carol enjoys spending time with her family, listening to music, and walking in nature.

Key Takeaways

• Practicing gratitude consistently can lower stress levels by 28%, improve sleep, and reduce blood pressure.
• Gratitude rewires the brain by reducing cortisol and calming the fight-or-flight response.
• We self-sabotage because it feels safer to stay small. Tapping reveals and clears these subconscious blocks.
• EFT tapping is an evidence-based technique that calms the amygdala and reduces emotional reactivity.
• Consistency and specificity are key to making both gratitude and tapping effective.

Quote“The question is never, is it good for you or not? That’s not the question. The question is, how much joy and happiness can you handle?” Carol LookMentioned in This Episode

Unlock the Yes, Thank You book portal filled with free resources to support your journey. Inside, you’ll find, nine instructional videos showing you exactly how to do tapping along with a detailed PDF guide of all the tapping points and a 30-day gratitude challenge. www.theyescode.com/thankyou

Connect with Carol Look

Website: www.carollook.com

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

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Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

Transcript

Victoria Bennion: [00:00:00] Hello and welcome. I'm your host, Victoria

Bennion, and the founder of the best podcast guest booking agency. And you're

listening to the best guest, the podcast for business owners, creatives, and

entrepreneurs who want to harness the power of podcasts to grow their platforms

and increase their visibility.

Victoria Bennion:

We're here to support you on your journey, bringing you actionable tips with

each episode. Now let's begin.

Victoria Bennion:

Today we're diving into a truly transformative conversation with our client

psychotherapist and world renowned EFT Master Carol. Look, I feel incredibly

lucky to have someone with Carol's level of expertise joining us today, not

only to explain the why behind our emotional blocks, but also to walk us

through how we can move past them.

Victoria Bennion:

Carol shares the science backed benefits of gratitude and why its so many of us

unconsciously resist happiness even when we know what's good for [00:01:00] us. But what makes this episode especially

powerful is that Carol doesn't just talk about the healing potential of EFT

tapping.

Victoria Bennion: She

gives a live demonstration with me right here on the show. And honestly, I can

say I felt a real shift. So whether you've struggled with self-sabotage,

stress, or just want to feel more grounded and joyful, this episode is one

you'll want to bookmark and revisit.

Victoria Bennion:

Hello and welcome to the podcast, Carol.

Carol Look: Thank

you, Victoria. It's great to be with you and see you this way.

Victoria Bennion:

It's really great to have you on the show, and I'm really looking forward to

talking to you about your new book.

Carol Look: Thank

you. I'm excited about it. Thank you for getting me on so many podcasts

already.

Victoria Bennion: Oh,

you are welcome. Could you begin by talking to us a little bit about the

science behind Gratitude?

Carol Look: It's

funny, so I wrote this book about gratitude. So Yes, Thank You. Tapping into

the Superpower of Gratitude, and I knew gratitude was amazing and fun, and

people feel good, but I didn't have all the [00:02:00]

statistics, so I did research. About the statistics physically and mentally and

emotionally. What it does for you when you keep a consistent gratitude

practice.

Carol Look: And it

was amazing. It was incredible. So I knew I was gonna write this book, but to

back it up with the science was really fun. For instance, it lowers your stress

levels by 28%. It lowers your risk of. Serious diseases. It lowers your

hypertension, it improves your ability to sleep, both the duration and the

depth of your sleep. I, all these things that we, I think we take for granted

and people, I think, take a gratitude list for granted, and that's part of why

I was writing the book, because people aren't consistent with it. So the

science just kept, tumbling and tumbling and showing incredible results.

Carol Look: From

people sticking to a consistent gratitude practice in blood pressure, in sleep,

in cortisol levels, it is just really quite [00:03:00]

amazing and quite exciting,

Victoria Bennion: I

never would've guessed that. Can you talk a little bit about how gratitude

rewires our brains?

Carol Look: It

rewires it in the chemicals. So the statistics are showing that what happens is

it calms down your fight or flight response and calms down your cortisol. So

cortisol is the big bad, the big bad hormone that gets triggered under stress

and duress. And when you practice a gratitude list or a gratitude practice

consistently, it starts to rewire your brain because you're sending different

chemicals.

Carol Look: So

instead of being hyper alert and instead of having your sympathetic nervous

system on all the time. We're tapping into other chemicals, other emotional

states, calming ourselves down, which of course improves sleep, lowers the

stress level, calms down the blood pressure issues and the, the hypertension [00:04:00] issues.

Carol Look: So it

rewires by literally changing the pharmacy. Changing the pharmacy in our brain.

Victoria Bennion: So

with all those benefits, why do you think it is that so many of us avoid a

gratitude practice?

Carol Look: It's so

interesting. That was part of the premise for the book is that even though I

know I didn't know the statistics, but I certainly know what's good for you. I

dabble I was doing it sometimes, not all the time, and I go through my history

personally, and then I go through as a psychotherapist for decades what I have

found that keeps people from being consistent and in my life it was.

Carol...

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome SEO expert Silvia Del Corso for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of search engine optimisation. Silvia breaks down how SEO has transformed what business owners need to focus on today and why data-driven decision-making is essential. From domain authority to the rise of AI in search, Silvia offers invaluable insights into how to stay competitive online in 2025.

About Silvia Del Corso

Silvia Del Corso is the Founder and Director of PinkSEO Ltd, an award-winning SEO agency based in West London, recognised as Creative Media Business of the Year. With over 13 years of experience in search engine optimisation, she specialises in helping business owners—especially in the medical sector—enhance their online visibility and turn website visitors into patients. Passionate about making SEO accessible, Silvia frequently speaks at industry events, sharing practical, actionable strategies that drive real results.

Key Takeaways

• Conducting an SEO audit can uncover hidden issues, like having six homepages, without the site owner knowing.
• Google trusts websites that have been around longer and have earned reputable backlinks.
• Outdated or irrelevant content can hurt your site - auditing and updating is more powerful than constant publishing.
• Learn how the rise of AI and tools like ChatGPT are reshaping how websites are ranked and how users search.
• Google's latest updates prioritize useful, current, and relevant content, especially in fields like health, finance, and law.

Quote"SEO, everything you do and you choose and you want to prove needs to be backed by a number... So from the search terms, the keywords that you choose to actually proving the results everything needs to be measurable." Silvia Del CorsoMentioned in This Episode

Google Analytics

Connect with Silvia Del Corso

Free SEO Website Audit

Complimentary audit of your site, expert SEO review and a 1-hour consultation https://pinkseo.marketing/free-seo-website-audit/

Free Webinars

Silvia runs regular free webinars to help you with your SEO. Learn more at http://pinkseo.marketing/next-webinar

Website: www.pinkseo.marketing

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silviadelcorso/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinkseo.marketing/

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

Transcript

SEO And What Really Matters in 2025 with Silvia Del Corso

Victoria Bennion: [00:00:00] Hello and welcome. I'm your host, Victoria

Bennion, and the founder of the best podcast guest booking agency. And you're

listening to the best guest, the podcast for business owners, creatives, and

entrepreneurs who want to harness the power of podcasts to grow their platforms

and increase their visibility.

Victoria Bennion:

We're here to support you on your journey, bringing you actionable tips with

each episode. Now let's begin.

Victoria Bennion:

Today I'm joined by Silvia Del Corso, a seasoned. SEO expert, with over 15

years of experience helping businesses decode the mysteries of Google, and stay

ahead in the ever changing world of search. In this episode, Silvia breaks down

what SEO really is, why your website might not be ranking

Victoria Bennion: and

how tools like Chat, GPT, and AI are reshaping the future of search. Whether

you are brand new to SEO or you've been working on your site for years, this

conversation is packed with practical [00:01:00]

insights from the power of domain authority. To the importance of data audits

and high quality content, get ready to rethink your digital strategy because

what worked last year won't cut it today.

Victoria Bennion:

Hello and welcome to the podcast, Silvia.

Silvia Del Corso: Hi.

Thank you so much for having me here, Victoria.

Victoria Bennion: Oh,

it's lovely to have you here today.

Victoria Bennion:

Could we begin by talking about your journey? How did you find yourself working

in SEO

Silvia Del Corso:

it's been a long journey 'cause I've been doing this job for now more than 15

years and I was initially doing it in Italy where I'm from. As you can clearly

tell from the accent, I apologize.

Victoria Bennion:

It's a great accent. Don't apologize.

Silvia Del Corso: , I

started back in Tuscany when we used to have the marketing agency and it was

different back then, but out of all the possible marketing. Sciences. That was

the one that I liked the most because it's numbers two and I can understand the

word [00:02:00] better if I see it in numbers.

If you tell me something is good, I need to understand if it's good seven or

79, if I see the number.

Silvia Del Corso: I

understand. SEO, everything you do and you choose and you want to prove needs.

To be backed by a number. So from the search terms, the keywords that you

choose to actually proving the results everything needs to be measurable. And

that's why actually it gives me confidence. 'Cause it's no opinions it's

actually data.

Silvia Del Corso: So

that's how I chose it. And it was the most complicated one at the time. So it

was more of a challenge that I'm driven by challenges. So it wasn't the time,

the one that wasn't. So easy to grasp. And it was something that wasn't usually

made by women. Because I, when I was going to the conference back then in

particular, it was a whole room all full of men.

Silvia Del Corso: And

you could [00:03:00] have to come to your women

attendees and in one hand. So it was quite exciting and new stimulating. And it

has remained. It's it still changes. It changes every day. Been more stable for

a while and now it's changing again crazily. But yeah, it's it's fun. It's

fascinating.

Victoria Bennion:

Excellent. So for anyone listening who's not quite sure what the term SEO

means, would you be able to just talk about that and why it's important?

Silvia Del Corso:

Yeah, it stands for search engine optimization, and it's the type of activities

that you do when you are working on a website to make it more easily readable

and understandable from Google and the value search engines including. AI in

search, so there are lots of. Practical activities that comprehend different

sorts of skills [00:04:00] from coding

technical content strategy and so on.

Silvia Del Corso:

Different things that you do so that your site can rank and when somebody's

searching for something if they find you instead of somebody else. It's

definitely an economic advantage so it can become more business, more clients,

more inquiries. And the nice thing for me was that it was a transferable

science.

Silvia Del Corso: So

the knowledge that I was using in Italy when I moved here to London in 2016,

it's the same 'cause Google doesn't change the way it operates in really

different country databases. Yeah.

Victoria Bennion:

That's really interesting. Okay, so if a business owner is thinking, I think I

need to do something about my SEO, I need to get my website ranking, what are

the top things that they should be looking at?

Silvia Del Corso:

First of all, you need to understand what is the current situation and what are

your goals. So there are tools to analyze a website and. We run it [00:05:00] every day regularly for respecting new

clients or people that we have a conversation with to actually the website or

scan it. It's quite enlightening sometimes 'cause we find things that the web,

the website owners would've never...

In this week's episode we welcome transformational speaker, facilitator and author, Suzanne Roberts, to the podcast:

We talk about:

• Polarity System Design and the Essence of Energy
• Healing from Trauma through Inner Connection
• Cultivating a Neutral Mind and Accessing Self-Renewing Energy

About Suzanne Roberts

Suzanne Roberts is the Founder of UnifyingSolutions and a transformational speaker, facilitator and author with over four decades of experience guiding leaders and organizations toward sustainable, systemic change. She is the creator of Polarity System Design™- a methodology that empowers individuals and teams to reclaim their inner capacity, lead with clarity, and design cultures rooted in purpose, equity, and lasting impact.

Suzanne creates spaces where people can thrive and contribute with clarity and purpose. Her book and documentary, It’s Deeper Than That: Pathway to a Vibrant, Purposeful, Life, will premiere October, 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Your soul is the source of your life force and energy; learning to connect with it can transform how you feel and act in the world.
• We often seek outside ourselves to fix feelings of emptiness, but true fulfillment is found within.
• Trauma can be healed when we learn to hold it from a place of wholeness rather than identify with it.
• The mind is meant to be a neutral observer - developing curiosity and awareness can help it become your best friend.
• Leading from your soul can create a more humane, equitable world.

Quote“We are already whole and we're already holy, so we don't have to design it. It's already in us. We just get to return to it.” Suzanne RobertsConnect with Suzanne Roberts

Learn More About Suzanne’s Book: It’s Deeper Than That

Book a complimentary coaching call with Suzanne here

Website: unifyingsolutions.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SuzanneRobertsPolarity 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzanneroberts3550

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzanne-roberts-24273b3/

Purpose for Life Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/purpose-for-life/id1817484248

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest Victoria Bennion chats with Andrea Isaacs, founder of the Isaacs Method of Emotional and Life Mastery. They explore ways to embody confidence, master emotions, and live purposefully.

About Andrea Isaacs

Andrea Isaacs is called a Master of Change and a Spiritual Teacher Extraordinaire. She has a passion to bring more joy to motivated, conscious, hard-working leaders who are changing the world. She is an international speaker, empowering facilitator and transformational coach.

After transforming her own painful shyness into confidence, she recognized that change CAN be easy. From shy and speechless, she became the host of her own radio show, and is now a magnetic, engaging and inspiring speaker, on stages in front of hundreds of people. Her own personal transformation taught her that she can guide others through their transformations. She has uncanny insight into what will aid each unique shift with the greatest ease for the greatest outcome. She has now changed the lives of thousands of people in over 25 countries.

Key Takeaways

Discover the Enneagram in Action – Learn how this ancient personality system can help you identify emotional patterns and unlock new strengths.

Master Your Mindset – Understand how your emotions shape your mindset—and how shifting both can improve relationships, business success, and overall life satisfaction.

Uncover Your Emotional Blueprint – Find out how Andrea’s EQ quiz reveals your personal gifts and challenges—and why knowing these can change how you show up every day.

Build Unshakeable Confidence – Learn why confidence isn’t about trying harder, but about healing old messages and rewiring your emotional responses.

The First Domino Effect – Discover how changing one key emotional habit can create a ripple effect that transforms everything from decision-making to productivity.

Embodiment Tools You Can Use – Hear how Andrea combines movement, language, and neuroscience to help clients embody their goals and purpose.

Quote"Confidence is essential in our lives. No matter who you are, no matter what you do, you're a human being on planet Earth. If you don't believe in yourself, if you don't have the confidence to speak up for yourself, you won't have the relationships, the business, the life that you want."- Andrea IsaacsMentioned in This Episode

Emotional Mastery Toolkit & EQ Quiz https://andrea-isaacs.com/eqtoolkit/

Masterclass: 3 Keys to Unshakeable Confidence: Stop Shrinking and Start Shining – Saturday, June 28th - https://go.andrea-isaacs.com/event-optin-unshakeable

Connect with Andrea Isaacs

https://andrea-isaacs.com/

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

Transcript

Victoria Bennion: [00:00:00] Hello and welcome. I'm your host, Victoria

Bennion, and the founder of the best podcast guest booking agency. And you're

listening to the best guest, the podcast for business owners, creatives, and

entrepreneurs who want to harness the power of podcasts to grow their platforms

and increase their visibility.

Victoria Bennion:

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Andrea, how are you today?

Andrea Isaacs: Hi,

Victoria. I'm great, thanks. How are you?

Victoria Bennion: I'm

well, thank you. It's lovely to have the chance to chat with you again. You are

the founder of the Isaacs Method of Emotional and Life Mastery. I wondered if

you could talk a little bit about your method to begin with.

Andrea Isaacs: Yeah.

Well, thank you. So I. Was a professional dancer for 25 years, and one of the

things I loved to do was to choreograph dances about people and their emotions.

And I, um, I wanted my dancers to be authentic and powerful on stage, and when

they could embody these range of [00:01:00]

emotions they were, and fast forward many years, I came across a personality

system called the Enneagram, and I wanted to learn it experientially because I

am an experiential learner.

Andrea Isaacs: And I

learned I'm not the only one. And so I used my background of embodying emotion

in order to learn the system. But what happened next really surprised me

because I had been painfully shy for my whole life, and suddenly confidence

became a part of me. And confidence is essential in our lives. No matter who

you are, no matter what you do, you're a human being.

Andrea Isaacs: I'm

planet Earth. If you don't believe in yourself, if you don't have the

confidence to speak up for yourself, you won't have the relationships, the

business, the life that you want. And my journey, the, the journey I offer

people when they wanna work with me is we'd start with emotional mastery and

then relational mastery, and then life mastery.

Andrea Isaacs: But I

realized, you know what it is about emotions. Yes. But our emotions determine

our mindset. And our mindset determines everything from the mood we're in when

we wake up in the morning. The decisions we [00:02:00]

make throughout the day and the ones we don't make, the actions we take. And

the ones we don't take the quality of everything and the mood we're in when we

put our head down at the pillow on our pillow at the end of the day.

Andrea Isaacs: And so

the work really is about having the life that you want and that is life

mastery.

Victoria Bennion: I

love that. Terms of your journey, so you were a dancer, did you become injured?

Did I read?

Andrea Isaacs: Yes. I

had a career ending injury. I fell really hard. I was, I had, I was up in the

air and I landed really hard on my tailbone and I could hardly walk for three

months and that was pretty much the end of my career. I hung in there, uh,

teaching. I couldn't perform anymore, and I realized I've gotta do something

different.

Andrea Isaacs: And,

you know, I know what it's like. Not to have a life purpose, because what had

been my purpose was taken away. It was gone. The friends I had were all in that

world. My world was all designed around the fact that I was a professional

dancer and went to every dance concert and I've traveled to see dance concerts.

Andrea Isaacs: My [00:03:00] friends were in that world. I mean, it was

my world and. It. There's just, it's not, I mean, it is hard to describe, but

anyone who's gone through it knows it's not just depressing. It's like, well,

what am I here for? What's the meaning of life? And I know what that's like. So

when I came across the Enneagram and this change happened for me, I realized,

oh.

Andrea Isaacs: It, it

didn't dawn on me. It took a while for me to realize that this is my new

purpose. It's like I want people to have, uh, to speak up for themselves, to

take a stand for who they are. To know that what you want, what you need

matters. Your gifts matter, and I believe everyone. Has a purpose no matter

what you do, who you are, what stage of life you're in.

Andrea Isaacs: Even

people who are retired, I believe they have a purpose, whether it's to be with

their grandchildren, to speak up for who they are and what they want to have

that kind of confidence. We talked about a moment ago, the way, who do you

wanna be in your day? What's your intention for how you wanna be throughout

your day?

Andrea Isaacs: That

is a good purpose. That's sufficient. So I like to say there's no judgment.

About how big or small your [00:04:00] purpose

is. Sometimes someone who has a big dream, this was told to me, oh, that's too

much. You can't do that. Who do you think you are? Boy, that deflated me. Or

there's no judgment about how small your dream is.

Andrea Isaacs: It's

like, if that's...

In this episode, Victoria Bennion welcomes Ciara Stockeland, speaker, author, Ironman athlete, and fractional CFO for inventory-based businesses. Ciara shares the story of how she launched her first business at 13, built and sold a subscription box company in under two years, and now empowers entrepreneurs to make sense of their numbers and reclaim financial freedom. She breaks down the most common mistakes inventory-based business owners make, how to prepare your business for exit, and why understanding your finances is the real path to freedom.

About Ciara

Ciara Stockeland, is a speaker, author, 4x Ironman and Fractional CFO for inventory based businesses.

Ciara has owned and operated a business since her early teens. As a serial entrepreneur, her business mindset and tenacity led her to opening her first store in 2006 which she then franchised. Her vast experience in both retail and wholesale industries led her to launch the first to market wholesale subscription box for boutique retailers, which she built and sold within 18 months. Most recently Ciara has launched the Inventory Genius, a consulting program for inventory-based business owners.

She has twice had the opportunity to testify before two U.S. Senate Committees regarding the “joint employer” standard for businesses and its effect on small businesses and franchises. Additionally, in 2015 she represented small businesses at a White House Summit on Worker Voice and again in 2018 for a Summit on Economics.

Ciara has been recognized as a Small Business Champion through SCORE, has held a seat on the United States Chamber of Commerce Small Business Council and is a Profit First Certified Coach. Through her consulting program, Ciara gives business owners the confidence and tools to build profitability and peace of mind in their inventory-based businesses.

In her free time Ciara enjoys training for endurance races and most recently completed her fourth Ironman at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, 2023.

She currently resides in Tennessee with her husband Jim and her Great Pyrenees Bentley.

Key Takeaways

Profit is the Priority

Building a big business doesn’t mean you’re building a profitable one. Entrepreneurs should focus on margins and cash flow not just top-line sales.

Know Your Five Numbers

Success hinges on understanding five core areas: sales, cost of goods sold, gross margin, expenses, and net profit. Mastering these leads to control and confidence.

Adaptability is Strength

Listening to your customers and pivoting from your original business idea can open unexpected doors to scalable success.

Plan to Exit Before You Want Out

The time to prepare your business for sale is not when you're ready to leave but well before, while you still have the clarity and control to make it valuable to someone else.

Tell Your Story Loudly

Whether testifying before Congress or launching a business, Ciara emphasizes the power of sharing your personal experience to drive change and connect with others.

Quote“It's not super attractive to fill out your spreadsheet and to look at your financials. It's very attractive when you have financial freedom, you write yourself a paycheck… That is what we can all get up in the morning for.” — Ciara StockelandMentioned in This Episode

Inventory Genius Book

Ciara Stockeland's Inventory Genius Method has helped hundreds of inventory based business owners create more profit and keep more cash. Get your free copy here

Connect with Ciara

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

YouTube

Podcast

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our Podcast Guest Starter Kit: The Podcast Guest Starter Kit gives you a proven plan to find the right shows, craft a winning pitch, and maximise every interview. https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/podcast-guest-starter-kit/

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Transcript

Victoria Bennion:

Hello and welcome. I'm your host, Victoria Bennion, and the founder of the best

podcast guest booking agency. And you're listening to the best guest, the

podcast for business owners, creatives, and entrepreneurs who want to harness

the power of podcasts to grow their platforms and increase their visibility.

Today, we welcome to the podcast Ciara Stockeland who is a

speaker, author, full-time Iron Man and fractional CFO for inventory based

businesses. Sierra has owned and operated a business since her early teens as a

serial entrepreneur. Her business mindset and tenacity led her to opening her

first store in 2006, which she then franchised.

Her vast experience in both retail and wholesale industries led

her to launch the first to market wholesale subscription box for boutique

retailers, which he built and [00:01:00] sold

within 18 months.

Most recently, Ciara's launched the Inventory Genius, a

consulting program for inventory based business owners.

Welcome to the podcast, Ciara. It's really great to have the

chance to chat with you today.

You started your first business as a teenager? I believe. I.

And you opened your first store in 2006, which you then franchised. Could you

talk about what attracted you to working in this space and, the lessons you

learned,

Ciara Stockeland:

Yeah, so I started my first. Formal business, if you will, when I was 13, I

hadn't set out to start a business with it, but I was from a small business

family, so it was very common in our family to find value in things or solve

problems create solutions through business. And so I. Built a theater company

for homeschool students.

I was homeschooled at the time just for fun at first, but then

started having other people come and ask if their children could be involved.

And so I built that and grew it into a formal theater [00:02:00]

acting company. We put on full length productions all through my time of.

Elementary, junior high school, college, and even into being married.

So I did that for over a decade. It was great. Learning

experience, how to balance a checkbook and how to market things and how to

provide a service. And then after I decided I was done with that business I got

married, had a couple kids, and was ready to move on. I decided that I would

like to start a retail store, so I had never worked any retail in my life but I

thought it would be a great idea to open a store, and I wanted to build a

brand.

I knew from the beginning that my idea was not to build myself

a hobby or to create a job for myself, but I really wanted to build a brand.

And so my first concept was a high-end maternity baby boutique. It was when it

was getting very popular to dress really cute when you're pregnant. The

celebrities were all buying beautiful things and so we had nothing available in

North Dakota, which is where I was from for that.

And so I opened this boutique and then, as typically happens to

small [00:03:00] business and entrepreneurs,

you start one way, but then you find your journey really weaving and winding.

And that's what happened with me as well. I opened that store six months later,

had the opportunity to open a second concept to help someone that I knew sell a

bunch of off, overpriced and off price product.

And that concept took off. Everybody loved getting a deal, and

it appealed to the masses where I was finding my maternity store, something I

hadn't thought of. That customer was a very short term customer. Because once

they had their baby, they were gone. They move on. And so I decided to merge

the two ideas and bring the outlet store into a boutique environment.

And then that's the concept that I franchised. The first lesson

I always love to share with entrepreneurs is to really listen to your customers

and don't get so set on. What you dreamed this concept or this business would

look like. 'cause often what we think is going to work is not what resonates

with the customer.

And if we stay very stubborn in like wanting it to be exactly

how we had planned, we can miss out on a lot of opportunity. [00:04:00] I.

Victoria Bennion:

That's good...

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome presentation coach and Head of Ideas on Stage UK, Andrea Pacini.

We talk about:

• The #1 communication mistake
• The SCORE method for creating memorable presentations
• Simple design tips to avoid “Death by PowerPoint”
• How to use AI without losing your authentic voice

About Andrea Pacini

Andrea Pacini is the author of the highly commended book ‘Confident Presenter’, a presentation coach and Head of Ideas on Stage UK. He specialises in working with business owners, leaders and their teams who want to become more confident presenters. Since 2010 Ideas on Stage has worked with thousands of clients around the world, including organisations like Microsoft, Spotify, eBay, The World Bank and over 500 TEDx speakers. In 2024 Ideas on Stage was named Best Presentation Skills Training Specialist in the UK by Corporate Vision. Andrea himself has also been awarded Best Virtual Speaker 2024 in The Speaker Awards. Andrea is on a mission to stop great ideas from failing just because of the way they are presented. His vision is to help hundreds of thousands of business leaders inspire their audiences, increase their influence, and make a positive impact in the world.

Key Takeaways

• The best presenters rehearse out loud not just in their heads
• Effective communication is all about your audience, not you
• Slides should support your message, not be your message
• Use simple language to increase credibility and connection
• The goal isn’t to eliminate nerves, it’s to get comfortable with them
• Aim for the best authentic version of yourself not for perfection
• Use AI as a support tool, not a replacement for human connection

Quote“Your journey towards becoming the most comfortable and most confident presenter you can be is a journey of a thousand presentations.” – Andrea PaciniConnect with Andrea Pacini

Website

LinkedIn

Learn more about the Confident Presenter book: https://amzn.eu/d/bKswMEe

To make the most of the book, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score

Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class here: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest Podcast, we welcome Ryan Lisk, founder of Hybrid Legal. Ryan shares his journey from launching a law firm in his early twenties to revolutionising legal services with a subscription model.

We talk about:

• The importance of having clear business contracts and avoiding common legal pitfalls
• How AI is impacting business operations and the legal risks you need to be aware of
• Key legal considerations when hiring freelancers and protecting intellectual property

This episode will equip you with essential legal knowledge to protect your business.

About Ryan Lisk

At just 21 years old Ryan Lisk took the leap and founded his own law firm, determined to make legal services more accessible, transparent, and business-friendly. Now, as the founder of Hybrid Legal, he helps UK businesses navigate complex legal challenges with practical, cost-effective solutions.

As a law student helping a startup with legal issues Ryan quickly realised how inaccessible legal support was for small businesses. Instead of following the traditional law firm model, he founded Hybrid Legal to focus on clear, fixed-fee pricing and straightforward legal advice - no jargon, no hidden costs with a flexible subscription model.

Ryan has worked with startups, growing businesses, and well-known brands to protect their interests and simplify legal complexities. Through founding his own law firm, Ryan has experienced the highs and lows of running a business and knows what it takes to start a business from scratch and scale it to 7 figures.

When he’s not at work, Ryan can be found running around after his 1 year old daughter and crazy Hungarian Vizsla. He’s also learning the martial art of 8 limbs, Muay Thai, where he is constantly humbled by teenagers in the class.

Key Takeaways

• A handshake isn’t enough - formal contracts protect both parties and prevent costly disputes.
• AI is transforming business, but it also brings legal risks - understand how your data is being used.
• Subscription-based legal services provide cost-effective and transparent solutions for businesses.
• Website compliance matters - ensure your privacy policies and terms of use align with GDPR.
• Hiring freelancers? Secure intellectual property rights and confidentiality agreements in writing.
• Shareholders’ agreements are essential for business stability - plan for future challenges now.

Quote"Go careful with putting intellectual property into AI and relying on what comes out of it to be your own IP. That’s murky ground at the moment."Connect with Ryan Lisk

Learn more about Hybrid Legal: https://www.hybridlegal.co.uk

Connect with Ryan Lisk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanlisk

Sign up to the Hybrid Legal Loop for free legal insights.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome 5x Bestselling author and the founder of Thought Leader Academy, Sara Connell.

We talk about:

• The doors a book can open—media, speaking, TEDx, and more
• The confidence gap and how it holds women back financially
• How visibility and thought leadership are shifting in 2025—and what you need to do now

About Sara

Sara Connell is a 5x Bestselling author and the founder of Thought Leader Academy where she helps coaches, experts and entrepreneurs scale impact + create 6-7 figures by becoming bestselling authors and in demand/TEDx speakers. 

She has been featured on/in Oprah, The New York Times, Good Morning America, TODAY, Forbes, Entrepreneur and TEDx. Her books have been nominated for a National Book Award and Elle Magazine book of the year.

Key Takeaways

• A book isn’t just about book sales—it’s a credibility multiplier that makes you the go-to expert in your field.
• Trust is the currency of 2025—and writing a book builds instant authority in just 1.8 seconds.
• Podcast hosts and event organizers prioritize authors—having a book increases your chances of being booked by 80%.
• High-ticket offers (coaching, courses, speaking) are the key to turning a book into a profitable business.
• Visibility is more important than ever—showing up in multiple places consistently builds trust and drives business growth.
• If you don’t already have the financial success you want, there’s likely a subconscious money block—and you can rewrite that mindset.

Quote"The desire to write a book is the permission slip—you don’t need anyone to tell you you’re allowed. That book will open doors, build trust, and change lives—including your own."Mentioned in This Episode

Holy Hunger by Margaret Bullitt-Jonas – the book that changed Sara’s life

Simon Sinek’s TED Talk: Start with Why

The concept of ZMOT (Zero Moment of Truth) – why people buy from those they see consistently

Connect with Sara

Website: https://www.saraconnell.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saraconnellauthorspeakercoach/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saraconnell/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/saracconnellauthor

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this episode of The Best Guest, I talk to seasoned sales strategist Becky Davidson about mastering the art of selling. Becky shares her five-phase framework for moving prospects from awareness to decision, the importance of emotional and logical selling, and how entrepreneurs can boost their close rates.

We talk about:

• The five phases every prospect goes through in sales.
• How to build trust and create a buying atmosphere.
• Why mastering sales is essential for entrepreneurs.

About Becky Davidson

Becky Davidson is a seasoned sales strategist with over 40 years and 80,000+ hours of experience in the art of selling. As the creator of the K.I.S.S. Strategy (Keep It Simple Sales), she has distilled her expertise into a powerful system that doubles close rates.

A graduate of the Dale Carnegie Course, where she was selected as a Graduate Assistant Trainer, Becky has honed her skills in leading conversations towards decisions.

With two decades of coaching experience, Becky has developed a comprehensive roadmap for taking prospects from cold to sold. Her approach focuses on creating genuine interest, qualifying opportunities, building trust, and facilitating natural, resistance-free closes. Becky's training philosophy emphasizes simplicity and equips professionals with tactical skills for unshakable confidence.

Through private coaching and group intensives, Becky partners with solopreneurs and sales professionals to shatter income plateaus. Her clients consistently report surges in close rates and increased sales confidence. Becky's K.I.S.S. method has led to remarkable success stories, including a struggling rep who achieved a 100% close rate after implementation.

Key Takeaways

• The Five Phases of Sales: Awareness, Interest, Conviction, Desire, and Decision—understanding these helps guide prospects from cold to sold.
• Building Trust: Establishing credibility through stories, experience, and showcasing expertise helps prospects feel confident in their decision.
• Creating a Buying Atmosphere: Setting expectations at the start of a conversation can make closing a deal much smoother.
• Sales is a Learnable Skill: Many entrepreneurs struggle with sales because they’ve never been formally trained—investing in sales training can transform results.
• Selling is Serving: If you can’t sell, you can’t serve—developing strong sales skills helps you help more people.
• The Power of Questions: Asking the right questions at the right time helps guide prospects to their own decision.
• Marketing vs. Sales: Marketing generates leads, but it's the sales process that converts them into paying clients.
• Entrepreneurs Need Sales Skills: Even if you’re great at what you do, without sales skills, your business won’t thrive.

Quote"If you can't sell, you can't serve." – Becky DavidsonConnect with Becky Davidson

Website

Connect on LinkedIn

Free Resource: Becky offers a free guide with 50+ ways to attract leads, plus a complimentary 45-minute sales strategy session Join Becky's Facebook Group to access the resource.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

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In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome business coach Joanna Lott who helps qualified coaches attract clients with honesty, not hype. We talk about:

• Building a Coaching Business with Honesty and Focus
• The Role of Podcasting in Business Growth
• Effective Marketing Strategies for Coaches

About Joanna Lott

Joanna Lott is a business coach who helps qualified coaches attract clients with honesty, not hype. As the host of The Women in the Coaching Arena podcast, a top 2.5% globally ranked show, she shares actionable insights to help coaches build thriving, integrity-driven businesses that reflect their unique brilliance.

With over 20 years in HR and an ILM Level 7 Certificate in Executive Coaching & Mentoring, Joanna transitioned into Executive Coaching to balance her career with motherhood. She successfully sold both executive and career coaching services to organisations and individuals, a rare achievement among business coaches. Facing the challenges of building a coaching business firsthand, she developed the Reliable Results Path - a proven system that has helped hundreds of coaches secure consistent clients and create profitable, purpose-driven businesses.

Joanna is an ICF Associate Certified Coach and brings a wealth of formal training and practical experience. Outside of coaching, she finds joy in yoga, connecting with her two children, Imogen and Max, and enjoying a glass of prosecco. Her mission is to help others build businesses that bring joy, freedom, and fulfillment.

Key Takeaways

• Find a specific niche to make coaching success easier for clients to understand.
• Use "deep marketing" strategies like podcasts and blogs to build genuine connections, alongside social media.
• Transform a coaching business with podcasting by creating trust and connection with the audience.
• Set deadlines and work with accountability partners to achieve goals like launching a podcast.
• Delegate tasks like editing and admin to focus on creating content and growing the business.
• Launch a podcast with an audience to promote it and use strategies like email lists and guest appearances.
• Create systems that work for personal schedules, such as flexible solo podcast recordings.
• Use tools like Descript for editing and Captivate for hosting to simplify podcast production.

Mentioned in This Episode

The Women in the Coaching Arena Podcast

The Ultimate 2025 Success Planner for Coaches

Connect with Joanna Lott

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

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Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest podcast we welcome President/CEO of Roux Advertising, Eric Morgan.

We talk about:

• The Importance of Brand Strategy
• Marketing Challenges for Law Firms
• Community Engagement as a Marketing Tool

About Eric Morgan

Eric is an accomplished marketing strategist with over 28 years of experience, currently serving as the President/CEO of Roux Advertising. (Roux is an advertising agency built for law firms. Roux provides strategy, media buying, creative, digital & analytics to grow law firms.)

His remarkable journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Advertising Communications and a minor in Marketing from Loyola University. Eric's insatiable curiosity and passion for the industry led him to earn an MBA at Tulane University, further honing his expertise.

Throughout his illustrious career, Eric has consistently applied his strategic prowess to drive success for a diverse array of clients, ranging from prominent law firms like Morris Bart, LLC and Frank D. Azar & Associates to esteemed brands such as Harrah's Casino and the Louisiana Office of Tourism. 

His commitment to delivering clarity, accountability, and impressive returns on marketing investments has earned him accolades, including the title of Top Executive of the Year by the Advertising Club of New Orleans in 2009.

Eric's impact extends beyond the boardroom, as he generously shares his knowledge as an educator and speaker at industry conferences. His dedication to fostering the next generation of advertising professionals is evident through his teaching experience at Loyola University's Communications Department. Additionally, Eric actively contributes to community initiatives, serving on the Board of Directors of Go.Be., which supports entrepreneurial minority small business owners.

With an unwavering commitment to innovation and a track record of excellence, Eric is a visionary leader in the world of advertising, leaving an indelible mark on the industry and inspiring those fortunate enough to work alongside him.

Key Takeaways

• Define your brand's unique purpose, audience, and positioning before implementing specific marketing tactics.
• Identify what makes your brand distinct to stand out in a competitive market.
• Ensure your Google Business Profile is up-to-date, with client reviews and accurate information, as it’s an easy and impactful way to enhance visibility.
• Participating in local events and supporting community causes strengthens brand trust and aligns with meaningful values.
• Avoid spreading resources thin by focusing on a few marketing strategies and executing them exceptionally well.
• Improving operational elements like call intake and client follow-ups can significantly increase conversion rates.
• Consider traditional methods like broadcast TV and billboards for brand-building, alongside digital efforts, depending on your market and goals.
• Develop a tailored approach that aligns with your specific strengths and goals instead of mimicking others' strategies.

QuoteWhen brands want to go to market, we start with what strategy is and what’s unique and different about their brand.Connect with Eric Morgan

Website

LinkedIn

Facebook

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

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Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome Lauren V Davis to the podcast.

We talk about:

• Building a Real Personal Brand
• Leveraging Social Media for Connection
• The Power of Community and Networking

About Lauren V. Davis

Lauren V. Davis is the CEO of Lauren Davis Creative, a hands-on personal branding consultancy that helps superstar entrepreneurs, authors, speakers, and passion-driven individuals tell their stories on their own terms, develop personal brands that form real relationships, and increase their visibility + revenue.

The skills Lauren acquired while building a successful brick-and-mortar record store for 15+ years taught her how to see through manipulative “one-hit-wonder” marketing tactics and instead grow a personal brand that drives meaningful relationships and profits. Today, she offers that same entrepreneurial support (and of course, great music recommendations) to experts worldwide.

Lauren is a featured marketing expert in Reader’s Digest, Huffington Post, and on global top-rated podcasts. She also hosts The Real Personal Branding Podcast, a bi-weekly podcast where she uncovers the secrets of personal brand building from some of the top thought-leaders, speakers, authors, and coaches in the world.

When she’s not working, find her touring the country in her van with her partner, searching for a great cup of coffee or glass of red wine.

Key Takeaways

• Personal branding is about community building, storytelling, and fostering engagement.
• Promoting your speaking engagements before events shows excitement and approachability.
• Setting aside time before and after events to engage with your audience can boost your connection and impact.
• Following up on social media with a thank-you post after your presentation reinforces the relationship with new followers.
• Even introverts can set boundaries while effectively engaging with an audience after speaking.
• Regularly audit your brand by Googling yourself and ensuring your content reflects your current work.
• Your content should be authentic and go beyond just providing value—allow people to connect with you personally.
• It’s essential to have a simple, efficient system for proposals, contracts, and payments.
• Don’t forget to ask for testimonials and reviews; they play a vital role in building trust and credibility.

QuotePromoting or sharing the event before you come shows your approachability and gets the audience excited about engaging with you. It’s about building relationships that last beyond your talk.Connect with Lauren V. Davis

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ldaviscreative/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ldaviscreative/
• LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/ldaviscreative
• Podcast: https://linktr.ee/realpersonalbrandingpodcast
• Grow Your Public Speaking Business Workbook

Gifts

• Download Lauren's 100+ Social Media & Content Prompts for Professional Speakers
• Download 100 prompts for social media

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week’s episode of The Best Guest, we welcome book writing coach Deborah Ager to the show.

We talk about:

• Writing "anti-boring" books
• Overcoming self-doubt and writer’s block
• Common pitfalls to avoid
• The power of books to build personal brands

About Deborah

Deborah Ager is a book writing coach who helps leaders publish anti-boring, high-quality books. Whether her clients want to build their credibility, get speaking engagements at the largest conferences, or see their book on the shelves at airports, she helps them get there.

In her business career, she developed a viral book marketing campaign for the U.S. National Institutes of Health’s Keep the Beat cookbook, built digital marketing programs that generated millions for a good cause, and founded an international literary magazine that’s carried in libraries at Yale and Harvard.

Key Takeaways

• Writing should have an audience-first approach to avoid being boring; know what your readers care about.
• Address feelings of self-doubt by focusing on what makes your perspective unique in the marketplace.
• Overcoming writer’s block requires practical mindset shifts, such as accepting that a first draft doesn’t need to be perfect.
• Carving out dedicated time and accountability through writing partners can help you balance writing your own books with client projects.
• Books are a powerful form of communication and content marketing that can open up new opportunities, such as speaking engagements or corporate partnerships.

Quote"A book can be a great way to allow another avenue or breadcrumb for people to find you." — Deborah AgerMentioned in This Episode

The Guide to Choosing Whether to Self-Publish Your Book

Free "How to Publish Your Book" class

Get next steps to launch your nonfiction book.

Connect with Deborah Ager

LinkedIn

Self-Publishing Success Website

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

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Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest, we welcome Frank Husmann, the founder of Maxiality to the podcast.

We talk about:

• Shifts in the B2B marketing landscape
• The importance of strategy
• Common pitfalls in authority marketing

Key Takeaways

• Showing the human side of a business is crucial, especially through video content that can emotionally engage and connect with the audience.
• Leveraging UGC and testimonials in social media marketing is highly effective, as they can build trust and authenticity.
• Using storytelling is a powerful strategy in video content, allowing a brand to resonate more deeply with its audience.
• Businesses should focus on maximizing ROI by understanding and catering to customer needs, driving engagement and conversions.
• Embracing innovation is essential for staying relevant, with short-form video content being a key area for creative growth.
• Podcasting can serve as core content, offering an opportunity to dive deep into topics, establish authority, and engage listeners on a personal level.

QuoteWhen you put the human side of your business out there, it’s not just about selling a product or service; it’s about creating a real connection with your audienceConnect with Frank Husmann

Website

YouTube

Linkedin

Connect with Victoria Bennion

Learn more about us: https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

Download our checklist: How to be an Excellent Podcast Guest https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/checklist/

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebestpodcastguest

Join the Best Podcast Guest Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebestpodcastguest

Subscribe to our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@victoriabennion

Connect with Victoria on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriabennion/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're looking at How to Get Leads from your Podcast Interviews.

Key Takeaways

• Consistent Engagement: Instead of focusing solely on appearing on the largest podcasts with the most downloads, prioritize being a guest on podcasts regularly. Consistent appearances help build momentum and increase visibility over time.
• Long-Term Strategy: Podcast interviews have a long shelf life, meaning they can generate leads long after they are initially published. Regularly participating in podcast interviews creates a lasting digital footprint that can continue to attract clients in the future.
• Wider Reach Potential: Many shows also share their episodes on platforms like YouTube, social media, and newsletters, which can significantly expand the audience.
• Unexpected Opportunities: Additional opportunities can arise from podcast appearances, such as collaborations, guest appearances on social media platforms, or writing articles for publications associated with the host. Engaging with smaller, niche podcasts can also lead to significant business opportunities, as illustrated by the example of a client securing a $10,000 course sale.
• Host Connections: Developing strong relationships with podcast hosts can be as valuable as the audience itself. Hosts can offer further opportunities, such as magazine articles and speaking engagements.
• Collaborative Potential: Engaging with hosts can lead to collaborations beyond the podcast episode itself. Maintain contact with hosts and explore potential collaborations that could benefit both parties.
• Direct Engagement: When appearing on podcasts, ensure there is a clear and compelling call to action for listeners. This could be a unique URL, a webinar, or a specific offer tailored to the audience.
• Value Addition: As a podcast guest, focus on adding value to the audience, which increases the likelihood of listener engagement and lead generation.
• Audience Overlap: Look for shows with audiences that have some overlap with your target market.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome Vladimer Botsvadze

We talk about:

• The importance of building connection with consumers
• Putting your customers first
• Personal brands and AI

About Vladimer Botsvadze

Ranked as the No. 1 Global Marketing, Social Media, and Retail Thought Leader by Thinkers360 in 2023 with over 130,000 followers across his social media platforms, Vladimer Botsvadze is a world-renowned digital transformation and social media influencer, keynote speaker, start-up advisor and internet personality who drives growth and positions brands as market leaders in their industries. He has more than 15 years of international experience with a proven track record and has enjoyed an outstanding career at the top of the technology industry. Vladimer has been described as "a pioneer across the globe" by Exeleon Magazine.

Key Takeaways

00:28 Welcoming Back Vladimir: Achievements and Milestones

01:49 Building Emotional Connections in the Digital Age

04:45 The Power of Personal Branding

07:53 Community Building and Social Media Strategies

18:10 The Role of AI in Marketing and Content Creation

19:54 The Importance of Patience and Long-Term Thinking

QuoteThe personal brand has become the brand, because consumers trust entrepreneurs who show their face, who show their smile, so no excuses.Mentioned in This Episode

Emily Weiss - Glossier

Tesla

Connect with Vladimer Botsvadze

Website

LinkedIn

X/Twitter

Instagram

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://www.thebestpodcastguest.co.uk/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest, Victoria shares essential tips on how to pitch yourself effectively as a podcast guest. Tune in to discover how to make your pitches stand out and increase your visibility through podcasting.

Key Takeaways

Prepare Your Digital Presence:

• Before pitching, ensure your online footprint is polished. This includes having an updated biography, professional headshot, and relevant social media links. Create a one sheet and a digital media kit to present yourself professionally.

Research and Personalize:

• Take time to research each podcast you pitch to. Understand the show's format, audience, and previous episodes. Personalise your pitch by mentioning specific episodes or topics that resonated with you, and avoid generic, templated pitches.
• Your pitch should include a brief introduction about you, relevant experience or achievements, and suggested topics you can discuss. Highlight any gaps in the podcast's previous content that you can fill and explain how you'll promote the episode if selected.
• After sending your pitch, follow up a week later. Hosts are often busy, and a gentle reminder can significantly increase your chances of getting a reply. Mention any new achievements or relevant updates in your follow-up.
• Consider adding value to your pitch by offering something unique to the podcast’s audience, like an exclusive webinar or a special resource. This can make your pitch more attractive and demonstrate your commitment to contributing to the show's success.

Resources

What you Need in Place Before Getting Started With a Podcast Interview Strategy

Get More Podcast Bookings With a One Sheet That Wows

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit www.victoriabennion.com

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome Worditude's Laura Robinson.

We talk about:

• Course creation
• What it means to have a comfy business
• The importance of staying true to what you want from your business

About Laura Robinson

Laura is an online marketing mentor and experienced digital copywriter. Over the last 10 years, she has helped hundreds of business owners create and sell 1-1 services, courses, memberships, and group programs. She’s taught thousands of people around the world, through the copywriting training she created for international business organizations including Female Entrepreneur Association, Enterprise Nation, and Membership Academy. She is also the author of the Comfy Business Playbook, and the creator of the Comfy Business Newsletter for people who want a business that flexes around their other life challenges, priorities, and adventures. She champions a Suit Yourself First approach to marketing, where decisions are based on what the business owner wants, rather than guessing the preferences of a hypothetical ideal client.

Key Takeaways

• Deadlines can be useful as a tool to enhance your productivity.
• Use writing as a way to clarify your thoughts and express yourself effectively, especially if public speaking is intimidating.
• It can help to overcome the fear of public speaking by starting with smaller, familiar platforms. Gradually build your confidence through consistent practice and exposure, such as guest appearances on podcasts or webinars.
• Personalized guidance can accelerate your growth and provide specific feedback for improvement.
• Use tools like Notion to manage your ideas and prioritize content that delivers substantial value.
• Valuable and actionable content is likely to resonate more with your audience than overly polished but less useful material.

Mentioned in This Episode

The Worditude Newsletter

Connect with Laura Robinson

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome actor and performance storyteller, Stacia Keogh.

We talk about:

• Why storytelling is so important
• The three most important stories for business owners to share
• If you're new to speaking, how to find your voice

About Stacia Keogh

Stacia began working with businesses writing corporate training videos that were as entertaining as they were informative. She is an actor and performance storyteller appearing on world stages, public venues and small screens everywhere. 

As a resting actor in London Stacia learned the dark arts of advertising and how to use her story and acting skills to enliven pitches and presentations, notably J Walter Thompson, The Really Useful Group, Imagination and as an Education Officer at Kew Gardens.

She currently works with professional service providers helping them to step into their own story to share their wisdom on panels, podcasts, and signature talks, 1:1 or Group Training programs

She hosts the podcast ‘Finding My Voice’ where she interviews people who are speaking their truth and giving voice to others.

If you play video games or listen to audiobooks chances are you’ve heard her voice guiding you through adventures.

Key Takeaways

• Storytelling is not just about reciting mission statements or listing features and benefits. Instead, it's about sharing genuine stories that have characters, specific events, and emotions attached to them. These stories help build trust and connection with customers and teams, allowing them to see themselves in the narrative and align with the company's values and purpose.
• Three Essential Stories for Business Owners: the origin story, the purpose story, and the value story. The origin story delves into how the company started and the founder's journey, providing a sense of connection and belonging for employees and customers. The purpose story articulates what the company stands for and its larger mission, uniting teams and attracting like-minded customers. Finally, the value story focuses on the transformation that the company brings to its customers' lives, going beyond product features to highlight the tangible benefits and outcomes.
• Tips for New Speakers: Rather than rushing through a speech or presentation, take a moment to breathe out, relax, and engage with the audience. By speaking to one person at a time, using facial expressions and hand gestures, and maintaining a steady pace, speakers can effectively convey their message and connect with their audience on a deeper level.

QuoteWhen you tell your story, you give people permission to tell theirs.Connect with Stacia Keogh

LinkedIn

Instagram

Twitter/X

Website

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome author of Twelve Doors Les Jones.

We talk about:

• The 19,000 on call firefighters in the UK
• Weaving in different elements in your writing
• The journey to publication

About Les Jones

Les Jones got involved in firefighting in 1980 at 20 years old, and worked at a large chemical company. Due to its risk and hazards, the company had its own internal fire service. This continued into another chemical industrial role until 1996. He attended external training courses including attending the Fire Service College in Gloucestershire.

He became a member of the IFE (Institute of Fire Engineers) and sat their examination at Crewe Fire Station in 1994. He became assistant team leader of the eight-person crew on his shift and focused on training and fire drill events.

In 1996 he became a police officer and found himself torn between Policing and the Fire Service as he had opportunities with both organisations. He spent 20 years in both uniform and plain clothes duties.

About Twelve Doors

Twelve ordinary men and women, frontline protectors, bound by duty. Whenever the call comes, they drop everything and risk their lives to save others.

But beyond the raging infernos, a string of crimes emerges that threatens to engulf them all. As their fire station faces closure, Leah Walsh, their fearless leader, embarks on a solitary quest to uncover a web of corruption that threatens her life and shakes the foundations of everything she holds dear.

In a faded seaside town on the brink of chaos, her brave crew must also navigate a precarious path to ensure that justice prevails. Will they extinguish the flames of criminality before they are all consumed?

Mentioned in This Episode

Twelve Doors

Bells The Fire Dog

Hummingbird Motion Pictures

Connect with Les Jones

Facebook

Website

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're talking about podcast guest forms. If you've pitched to be a guest on a podcast, you've likely been ask to complete a form. We look at:

• Why it's important to complete the form
• Ways to streamline the process to save time

Key Takeaways

• Completing podcast guest forms is necessary for maximising this strategy and building positive relationships with hosts.
• Allocate sufficient time for filling out forms, as the complexity can vary.
• Creating a digital media kit can streamline the process.
• Consolidating commonly requested information in a document with URLs for easy sharing and reference can save time.

Mentioned in This Episode

Get More Podcast Bookings with a One Sheet That Wows

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/ or contact us here

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome positioning and messaging expert Janine Coombes.

We talk about:

• Pricing high ticket services
• Content marketing and selling
• How to overcome a fear of visibility

About Janine Coombes

Janine Coombes is an offer positioning and messaging expert who helps coaches and consultants to earn drastically more from their 1:1 services without slogging their guts out or moving to a more complicated business model. She has an extensive background in business and marketing including working with big brands like EE, Orange and Europcar. She has a business degree, a post-graduate marketing diploma (CIM Dip) and regularly speaks on stages like Atomicon, You Are The Media and MarketEd.Live.

Key Takeaways

• Many coaches and consultants tend to jump into marketing tactics like social media and funnels before defining their target audience and refining their offerings.
• Pricing high-ticket services requires finding the right balance. Janine's advice? Find a price that feels slightly uncomfortable but still aligns with the value you provide.
• One-to-one services offer simplicity and depth. They allow you to focus on helping clients without spreading yourself too thin.
• Crafting high-ticket service packages involves understanding your audience and tailoring your offerings to meet their specific needs.
• Being visible in your business can be daunting, but it's essential for success. Showing your face and sharing your voice is crucial for making an impact in a crowded market.
• Confidence in being visible takes time to develop. It's a gradual process of stepping out of your comfort zone and seeing the positive outcomes that result.

QuoteWho knows who you are already? Who's already in the market for what you're selling right now? Get in front of them first.Mentioned in This Episode

Download Janine's workbook, 6 Steps to Charging More with 100% Confidence, here

Access The Ultimate Guide to Creating and Selling Service Offers here

Connect with Janine Coombes

LinkedIn

Website

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're talking about if you can guest on podcasts using a pen name.

Key Takeaways

• Pen names can be utilised to protect identity, maintain anonymity, or address legal and safety concerns during podcast appearances.
• Throughout history, well-known authors like JK Rowling, Agatha Christie, Stephen King, and Mark Twain have used pen names
• It is indeed feasible to implement a podcast interview strategy while using a pen name. Make sure to clearly communicate the desired level of anonymity required to your marketing team and/or podcast booking agency.
• Practical considerations for authors using pen names in podcasts include the likelihood of hosts requesting a headshot and the increasing use of video elements. Authors are encouraged to choose podcasts aligning with their privacy preferences or discuss with hosts possible methods, such as using avatars or turning the camera off, to conceal identity during interviews.
• Despite potential privacy concerns, using a pen name is not a barrier to leveraging podcast interviews for various benefits. Authors can still grow their platform, increase website traffic, boost book sales, improve SEO, and build a personal brand through podcast appearances.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome entrepreneur and speaker, Sabrina Victoria.

We talk about:

• Sabrina's journey from abuse survivor to TEDx Speaker
• How to effectively manage your time as a business owner
• The personal development programs that transformed Sabrina's life
• Factors to consider before starting a new business venture

About Sabrina Victoria

Sabrina Victoria is a seasoned entrepreneur and TEDx speaker with a background in door-to-door sales. She brings over two decades of experience of building and co-building multiple 6 and 7-figure businesses to Her Nation, a dynamic media platform showcasing business owners through engaging podcasts, virtual magazine features, and empowering events. Her charismatic leadership style centers on community building, education, and strategic networking as the core of success for women in business. She is the host of Her Talk Show and leads several networking, business workshops and masterminds per week to help female business owners thrive!

Key Takeaways

• Don't be afraid to pivot. Be curious
• Always think of the long game when it comes to business opportunities
• Pay attention to where your energy peaks and lulls so you can maximise this in your day
• Investing in personal development programs such as Landmark Forum and Tony Robbins were very important in helping Sabrina Victoria achieve the success she has. They help you to think about life differently, your story differently, your journey and your challenges
• To achieve her dream of becoming a speaker, Sabrina Victoria set goals and took action. She showed up with intention and let people know what she did

QuoteThe universe, I believe, always gets what it needs. And if you're not ready to step up for what it needs, it moves to somebody else.Mentioned in This Episode

Her Nation

Her Talk Show

Sabrina Victoria's TEDx Talk

Connect with Sabrina Victoria

YouTube

Facebook

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're looking at how you can enhance your personal brand as a guest on podcasts:

Key Takeaways

• Brand Identity is so much more than fonts and logos
• Podcasts lend themselves well to story telling and this builds connection
• People will connect with you for things you share about yourself
• You can show lots of different aspects about yourself when you're a podcast guest
• Through appearing on podcasts you can demonstrate your expertise
• Podcast guesting is a great way to build your network
• Review your online presence before pitching so that you make the best impression possible

Mentioned in This Episode

Episode 101 - The Power of Brand Identity with Jessica Wikingellis

The Golden Egg Academy

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome Podcast Host and Author, Tim Lewis.

We talk about:

• Business Travel and Benefitting from Airline Schemes
• What Podcast Hosts Look for in Guests
• The Pros and Cons of Creating a Live Show vs a Recorded Show

About Tim Lewis

Tim has been self-employed since 2014, first writing science fiction and fantasy books, then the book Social Media Networking in 2018. After that Tim was been more concentrated on social media training and helping people self-publish their books. Tim was the host of the Begin Self-Publishing Podcast between 2016-2019 and run the #indieAuthorChat Twitter chat for the Alliance of Independent Authors between 2019-2022.

Tim is the co-host of the Oh No! Not Another Live Show!, a general interest interview show and runs the Book Chat Live show on Amazon Live and YouTube where he talks to authors and book lovers about their favourite books.

He is also the creator of the Tim Lewis TCF YouTube channel where Tim talks about his efforts to visit every state in the US (currently at 49 states - one to go!) and general travel advice from a serial US traveller.

Key Takeaways

1. Airline Loyalty Program Tips: It's important to understand different airline schemes and the nuances in earning points and tier statuses. Tim's strategy involves taking specific flights and understanding the value of tier points, especially for business and first-class travellers.
2. Podcasting and Guest Selection: Tim emphasizes the importance of tailored pitches and how lack of research into the show's context can impact guest selection.
3. Challenges in Guest Coordination: Lewis emphasizes the effort required from potential guests when pitching for shows. Many fail to follow through with requirements, such as providing book lists for "Book Chat Live," causing difficulties in scheduling and creating episodes. His advice is for potential guests to understand the show's format and fulfil necessary tasks when pitching.
4. Unscripted Podcasts: Podcasts come in diverse formats. Some shows follow structured scripts and predetermined questions, others prefer a more unscripted and spontaneous approach, allowing for more natural conversations.
5. Podcasting Challenges: The time-consuming nature of editing, learning curves associated with audio/video editing, and the need for consistent quality and skills to maintain audience engagement.
6. Podcasting Strategy and Audience Growth: Podcasting might not be the top-of-funnel solution to gain a massive audience immediately, but it's an intimate medium that, when used strategically, can contribute to audience growth and retention further down the funnel. Also, being a guest on podcasts is a beneficial strategy for networking and reaching new audiences.

Connect with Tim Lewis

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Threads

Twitter/X

LinkedIn

YouTube Channels

Oh No! Not Another Live Show! 

Book Chat Live

Tim Lewis TCF

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome the founder & CEO of global marketing and branding firm Mavens & Moguls, Paige Arnof-Fenn.

We talk about:

• The importance of establishing an online presence
• Effective strategies for building your brand
• Utilising LinkedIn

About Paige Arnof-Fenn

Paige Arnof-Fenn is the founder & CEO of global marketing and branding firm Mavens & Moguls based in Cambridge, MA. Her clients include Microsoft, Virgin, The New York Times Company, Colgate, venture-backed startups as well as non profit organizations. She graduated from Stanford University and Harvard Business School. Paige serves on several Boards, is a popular speaker and columnist who has written for Entrepreneur and Forbes. 

Key Takeaways

1. Significance of Online Visibility: Being invisible online is a detrimental strategy. In today's digital age, people use online presence, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, as a measure of credibility and trustworthiness.
2. Everyone is a Brand: Regardless of status, everyone has become a brand in the digital space due to social media platforms. Consistency and authenticity are crucial in shaping and maintaining this personal brand.
3. Strategic Approach to Online Presence: Rather than spreading yourself thin across multiple platforms, focus on one or two that align with your strengths and where your target audience engages the most.
4. Authenticity and Professionalism in Online Engagement: Remain true to yourself while maintaining professionalism in your online presence. Inconsistencies across different platforms can lead to confusion and a lack of trust among your audience.
5. The Power of Consistency: Reinforce one or two key messages consistently across all touchpoints to build a strong brand identity that resonates with your audience.
6. Harvard Business School Case Study Experience: Harvard created two case studies on Paige's entrepreneurial journey, illustrating the shift from corporate to entrepreneurship, reflecting the growing interest in students wanting to start their own businesses.
7. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Conduct thorough market research to validate your business idea, focusing on the target audience's needs. Additionally, stay adaptable and consistently evaluate and update your marketing strategies to align with changing environments and audience preferences.

QuoteIf you don't exist online, you really don't exist anymoreConnect with Paige Arnof-Fenn

Website

LinkedIn

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit www.victoriabennion.com

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're talking about the different ways being a guest on podcasts can help you win podcasts and what you need to pay attention to to achieve this.

Key Takeaways

1. Podcast Guesting and Client Attraction: Being a guest on podcasts offers an opportunity to tap into an engaged audience and establish trust and credibility. Sharing expertise and stories on podcasts helps in positioning yourself as an authority in the field, attracting potential clients seeking solutions.
2. Showcasing Expertise and Building Relationships: Podcast appearances allow showcasing expertise, providing tangible value to the audience, which solidifies the guest's position as an expert. Personal connections made during podcast appearances often lead to listeners feeling more inclined to work with the guest due to increased likability and connection beyond mere expertise.
3. Lead Generation and Strategic Calls to Action: Podcast guesting is a powerful lead generation tool. Guests can leverage the opportunity to share a call to action, such as offering free resources, webinars, or consultations, engaging and nurturing listeners into potential clients.
4. Networking and Collaborations: Being a podcast guest enables you to expand your network within the industry, building relationships with hosts and their audiences. These connections often lead to collaborations, partnerships, and referrals, opening doors to new client opportunities.
5. Strategic Approach to Securing Guest Spots: Securing guest spots on podcasts requires thorough research, identifying relevant shows aligned with the guest's niche or target audience. Crafting personalized pitches that highlight unique value, understanding the audience's pain points, and providing solutions are crucial for landing sought-after guest spots. Additionally, maximizing impact by promoting podcast appearances across various platforms reinforces credibility and extends reach beyond the podcast audience.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome Zack David aka Zack The Podcast Man to the Show.

We talk about:

• The essential equipment you need to get started with podcasts
• What a sound check with Zack involves
• The key elements to a successful podcast

About

When Zack David, The Podcast Man, bought his first guitar at 13 years old for $27, little did he know this would be the start of his audio editing career. 

Zack played in a heavy metal band at high school, a folk trio in college and big Latin bands in Peru when he was in the Peace Corps. These experiences gave him a wide range of audio expertise.  

Since 2016 Zack and his team have been producing and editing podcasts. And Zack is also our trusted audio consultant at the Victoria Bennion Podcast Booking Agency., so it gives me great pleasure to welcome him to the podcast today.

Key Takeaways

• A podcast can be beneficial for entrepreneurs by driving leads to their services or products and creating brand awareness.
• Podcasting fosters a strong "know, like, and trust" factor among listeners, helping entrepreneurs connect with their audience on a more personal level.
• Networking through podcasts allows individuals to build meaningful connections and engage in knowledge sharing within their industry.
• Basic podcasting equipment includes a quality USB microphone, a desktop stand or scissor arm, and a pop filter to reduce unwanted sounds.
• Microphone technique, especially for dynamic microphones, involves maintaining a consistent distance of about a fist's length and speaking at a 45-degree angle to the microphone.
• Conducting sound checks is crucial for ensuring that both podcast hosts and guests sound good. Providing personalized advice during sound checks can help improve the overall quality of the podcast.
• Investing in high-quality audio equipment, such as USB or XLR microphones, and using headphones during recordings can significantly enhance the sound quality and prevent issues like echoes and feedback loops.
• Maintaining a reliable internet connection is essential for uninterrupted recording sessions. Using an ethernet cable can help minimize wireless interference and ensure a stable connection, particularly during long-distance recordings.
• Podcast success is not just about audio quality but also depends on having engaging content and a well-thought-out strategy to reach the right audience. Making time for growth and staying updated on industry trends and tools can contribute to the podcast's success.
• Building organic connections with listeners and utilizing paid marketing tools, such as overcast.fm and mowPod, can help increase a podcast's reach and attract the right audience. However, it's crucial to be cautious of potentially spammy marketing tactics that may harm the podcast's reputation.

QuoteWhat's even more important oftentimes in the audio quality is having amazing content and having strategy behind it to make sure that it's getting into the right ear balls.Mentioned in This Episode

mowPod

Overcast.fm

Connect with Zack David

Website

Instagram

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome digital marketer Jessica Wikingellis to the show.

We talk about:

• What we mean by brand and brand identity
• Why your brand identity is so important
• The importance of tailoring your brand message to your target audience

About Jessica

Jessica Wikingellis has 10 years' of marketing experience. She helps small serviced based businesses attract and land their ideal clients through online marketing by helping them identify and refine their brand message, creating content frameworks and strategy so they can connect with their audience and show up with clarity and confidence. 

Key Takeaways

1. Brand identity is more than just logos and colours: It encompasses messaging, tone of voice, and overall brand personality.
2. Tailoring brand messages to the target audience is crucial: Understanding the audience's journey, desires, and pain points helps in making them feel seen, heard, and understood.
3. Confusing brand messaging can hinder audience engagement: Simplifying and clarifying the brand message is vital for effective communication.
4. Humanising the brand through vulnerability and authentic storytelling builds trust and connection with the audience.
5. Focusing on one social media platform initially helps in avoiding dilution of efforts and confusion.
6. Structured storytelling can deeply resonate with the audience and create lasting connections.
7. Embracing vulnerability in personal branding can lead to genuine connections with the audience.
8. Professional support in marketing can provide a customized approach tailored to specific brand needs, leading to improved marketing outcomes.

Quote"Humanising your brand is really about finding your own voice... It's something that can grow with time." - Jessica WikingellisConnect with Jessica Wikingellis

Instagram

Tiktok

LinkedIn

Website

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

This week we're celebrating reaching our 100th episode where we're talking all about how to convince your boss to invest in a podcast interview strategy.

Key Takeaways

1. Highlight Positive Outcomes from Past Appearances: Use any previous podcast guest appearances by your boss as evidence of the positive outcomes and exposure gained from such opportunities.
2. Emphasize the Multifaceted Benefits: Podcast interviews offer more than just wide audience reach; they can help establish thought leadership, increase brand visibility, attract new clients, and build connections with target audiences.
3. Highlight Timeless Assets: Podcast interviews are timeless assets that continue to bring benefits long after their release, as they can be found by potential clients searching online.
4. Fresh Content for Marketing: Podcast interviews provide fresh content that can be repurposed across marketing platforms, aiding SEO and generating backlinks.
5. Explain Niche Audiences: Mention that podcast interviews allow you to connect with niche audiences, helping you build a genuine connection with your target audience.
6. Define Clear Objectives: Clearly define measurable objectives for the podcast interview strategy that align with broader marketing and business goals.
7. ROI Projection: Provide a projection of the return on investment (ROI) based on realistic expectations, focusing on metrics such as increased website traffic, lead generation, and conversion rates.
8. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Outline the KPIs that will be used to measure the success of the podcast interview strategy and explain how they will be tracked and reported.
9. Competitor Analysis: Conduct a competitor analysis to showcase how other companies in your industry are benefiting from podcast guesting, emphasizing engagement metrics, topics discussed, and brand promotion.
10. Long-Term Strategy: Stress that podcast guesting is a long-term strategy that builds brand authority and credibility over time, leading to increased consulting work, speaking opportunities, website traffic, and more.

These takeaways can serve as a foundation for your pitch to convince your boss to invest in a podcast interview strategy.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome ClickUp expert Yvonne Heimann to the podcast

We talk about:

• Mastering the Basics of ClickUp
• Establishing Processes in Your Business
• The Different Seasons of Running a Business

About Yvonne Heimann

Yvonne Heimann is the CEO & founder of AskYvi.com and the leading ClickUp evangelist, as well as a passionate Business Efficiency & Scalability Consultant, Mindset Coach, NLP Master Practitioner, & Speaker.

Using her knowledge of over 15 years running multiple businesses, she helps her clients organize, strengthen, and streamline their businesses into profitability and success.

Yvonne is a force to be reckoned with. When her husband died, she was determined to not only resume her passion for building “bulletproof businesses” but also to make sure that those who go through something similar can find the same solace and excitement in entrepreneurship that she did.

Her work is driven by a vision of a world where digital entrepreneurs not only make a living doing what they are passionate about but thrive and wear their passions as badges of honor.

Key Takeaways

1. Yvonne's upcoming book, "The Basics of Mastering ClickUp," targets a diverse audience, including beginners, teams using ClickUp daily, and existing users seeking to strengthen their foundational knowledge. The book's objective is to help users streamline processes and workflows effectively without becoming overwhelmed by the tool's complexity.
2. The Versatility of ClickUp: ClickUp is a versatile project management tool that allows for high levels of customization. Understanding your processes well is essential to making informed decisions when setting up ClickUp.
3. Starting with Your "Moneymaker" Process: Yvonne recommends initiating your ClickUp setup by focusing on your most critical process, often referred to as the "moneymaker" process. Identify its key steps and gradually build and optimize it within ClickUp. This approach ensures efficiency and automation where possible.
4. Balancing Work and Personal Life: Achieving a perfect work-life balance can be challenging. Instead, consider it as a series of seasons in your life and business. There will be times when work takes precedence and others when personal life and self-care are the priority.
5. Being Mindful of Consumed Content: Being mindful of the content you consume, whether news or entertainment, is vital. Negative or dramatic content can significantly impact your mood and overall well-being. Be selective in your content choices.
6. Consistency in Promises to Yourself: There's value in making and keeping promises to yourself. Start small and gradually increase commitments to avoid self-criticism. Consistency in self-commitments can lead to positive habits and self-improvement.
7. Learning and Adapting: Yvonne's journey to write her book involved facing unexpected challenges and setbacks. Learning from these experiences and adapting to overcome obstacles is essential. Surrounding yourself with the right people and resources can make a significant difference.
8. Customizing Your Morning Routine: When establishing a morning routine, tailor it to suit your preferences and energy levels. Allow flexibility in your routine to adapt to how you feel each day. The key is to prioritize "me time" during the first hours of the day and do what feels right for you, whether it's enjoying a leisurely coffee or hitting the ground running.
9. Energy Level Awareness: Recognize that your energy levels fluctuate throughout the week. It's essential to listen to your body and not expect the same level of productivity every day. Understand when you may need more time for recovery and rest. Don't feel pressured to conform to a rigid schedule, such as the "5am club."
10. Tracking Sleep Patterns and Habits: Embrace technology to gain insights into your sleep patterns and how your habits affect your rest. Tools like the Oura Ring can help you understand when you sleep best, the impact of alcohol on your sleep quality, and more. Use data to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.
11. Optimizing Work and Creativity: Align your work schedule with your natural rhythm. If your creative phase occurs in the afternoon, capitalize on that time for generating ideas. For tasks requiring focus and attention to detail, tackle them first thing in the morning to prevent procrastination. Consider changing your work environment to stimulate creativity.

QuoteWhere I start with is first of all, your moneymaker process. So there's a lot of processes and workflows happening in your business, right? The most important one is what I call your moneymaker. Meaning. That's your client process. How are you making money in your business? That's the first process you are taking care of.Mentioned in This Episode

Yvonne's new book, Mastering the Basics of ClickUp

Access Yvonne's freebie, The Ultimate Guide to Streamline Your Customer Journey

Oura Ring

ClickUp

Connect with Yvonne Heimann

Website

YouTube

Facebook

LinkedIn

Instagram

Twitter

Podcast

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome author and entrepreneur DaVon and Greene to the podcast.

We talk about:

• The mindset and habits essential for success
• Overcoming rejection as a writer
• Balancing writing with running a business

About DaVon and Greene

DaVon and Greene (the pen name of Jonathan Greene) always knew writing was in his blood. He grew up as the son of author and composer BB Johnson AKA Joseph Greene who wrote Together Brothers and Across the Alley from the Alamo. Drawn towards cartels, crime, and drugs DaVon and Greene completed his first serious undertaking in his early teens. After an underwhelming critique from his father’s friend, Saul David (Director of Logan’s Run and Fantastic Voyage) DaVon and Greene put down the pen and entered the world that he wrote about in an endless cycle that there was no escape from, ultimately leading to incarceration.

Key Takeaways

1. Persistence in Writing: It's important to be persistent in your writing journey. Even after facing discouragement, it's crucial to keep writing every day and not give up on the craft.
2. Overcoming Rejection: When faced with rejection, taking a break from writing may happen, but it's vital to eventually overcome setbacks and start writing again, focusing on writing for yourself before writing for others.
3. Daily Writing Habits: Developing the habit of writing every day is essential. Aim to complete at least one page a day. Consistent daily writing helps you stay engaged with your work and overcome writer's block.
4. Writing Process: Writing more than you need and then refining your work is a valuable approach. Typically, about 4 pages of writing for Davon and Greene may be required to produce 1 final page of text. This highlights the importance of editing and revision in the writing process.
5. Balancing Writing with Other Work: If you have other commitments, find ways to manage your time effectively. For example, if you're a truck driver, start early in the morning and use your time on the road to work on your novels.
6. Inspiration from Real Life: Draw inspiration for your characters from real people you know or meet. This personal touch can bring depth and authenticity to fictional characters.
7. Adaptability in Career: Be adaptable in your career endeavours. Explore different opportunities and be open to change when pursuing entrepreneurial success.
8. Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: It's important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating well and staying active can help you stay fit and focused, even in demanding jobs like truck driving.

QuoteYou have to have some kind of drive. You have to find, whatever that drive is that drives you., Everybody's different. You have to find something that gets you up every day. I get up every day 4 o'clock in the morning.Mentioned in This Episode

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In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're joined by Brandon Leibowitz, the founder of SEO Optimizers which is a digital marketing company that focuses on helping small and medium-sized businesses get more online traffic, which in turn converts into clients, sales and leads. We talk about:

• The importance of using the right keywords in your content
• The mistakes people are making with their SEO
• What reputation management involves

Key Takeaways

1. Importance of Keywords: Using the right keywords is crucial for effective SEO. Keyword research helps identify high-search-volume keywords that are relevant to your business and have buyer intent. Long-tail keywords are valuable for targeting specific audiences.
2. Mistakes in SEO: Common mistakes in SEO include neglecting backlink building. Backlinks, especially from relevant and authoritative websites, are essential for building trust and credibility with search engines.
3. Reputation Management: Reputation management involves managing and improving a company's online image. It includes strategies to push down negative search results, build positive online content, and optimize social media profiles.
4. Press Releases and SEO: Press releases can be useful for branding and exposure but may not have a significant impact on SEO. They used to be more effective in the past for building backlinks, but now quality and relevancy of backlinks matter more.
5. Backlink Building Strategies: Backlink building should focus on quality and relevancy. Analysing competitors' backlinks can provide insights into effective strategies. It's important to build diverse backlinks from different sources and related websites.

Connect with Brandon Leibowitz

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Book your free podcast guesting strategy session today.

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In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're talking about what you need in place before you get started with a podcast interview strategy.

Key Takeaways

1. Established Business Identity: Before diving into podcast interview strategies, it's crucial to have a clear business identity, including a business name, mission, brand, and target audience. These elements provide a solid foundation for delivering a compelling message during podcast appearances.
2. Differentiation: Identify what sets you apart from others in your industry and how your product or service addresses specific problems for your target audience. This unique value proposition will be key to conveying your message effectively in podcast interviews.
3. Online Presence: Having a professional website is essential before reaching out to podcasts. Your website should be well-designed, engaging, and showcase your expertise. A strong online presence demonstrates credibility to potential podcast hosts.
4. Social Media Profile: It's recommended to have at least one active social media profile. This helps hosts find more information about you and your expertise, enhancing your credibility as a guest.
5. Prepared Assets: Consider having relevant assets like case studies, downloadable resources, or other valuable content that you can share during your podcast appearances. These assets can be used as effective call-to-action options to drive engagement after the interview.
6. Expertise Demonstration: Showcasing your expertise through content on your website or LinkedIn helps back up your pitches and shows hosts that you have the knowledge to contribute meaningfully to their show.
7. Lead Capture Strategy: Plan how you'll capture leads generated from podcast interviews. This might involve a newsletter subscription, quizzes, Facebook groups, or other means to engage and retain listeners who become interested in your offerings.
8. Time Commitment: Ensure you have the time available for podcast interviews. While agencies can assist with scheduling and other tasks, you still need to dedicate time to participate actively in the interviews and follow through with commitments.
9. Early-stage Business Opportunities: Even if you're in the early stages of your business, podcast interviews can provide growth and exposure opportunities. Having a clear message, target audience, and web presence can help you get started effectively.
10. Preparation and Flexibility: While advanced questions might not always be provided, having a deep understanding of your subject matter and being able to engage in conversational flow is crucial. Adaptability and enthusiasm for sharing value are essential.
11. Speech Coaching and Stories: Consider investing in speech coaching to improve articulation and message delivery. Develop compelling stories around your journey, client successes, and pivotal moments to enrich your interviews.
12. Media Kit and Assets: Creating a digital media kit with your biography, headshots, book cover (if applicable), and other relevant information can streamline the booking process and enhance your professional presentation.
13. Building Authority: Podcast interviews contribute to authority building and expanding your industry reach. Every interview is an opportunity to connect with potential customers and partners, so approach each with enthusiasm and a willingness to provide value.
14. Continuous Improvement: As your business grows, podcast interviews can have an even greater impact. Continuous practice and honing your interview skills will contribute to improved performance and audience engagement.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're looking at some of the differences and similarities between traditional media and a podcast interview strategy.

Key Takeaways

1. Podcasts have become more mainstream and continue to grow in popularity, with a dedicated and engaged audience.
2. Traditional media outlets have a massive reach, attracting millions of viewers and readers, while podcasts usually cater to smaller niche audiences.
3. Podcast interviews provide more extended and in-depth opportunities for guests to showcase their expertise and connect with the audience compared to TV segments.
4. Both podcasts and traditional media can enhance credibility and authority for a brand or individual.
5. Traditional media provides third-party validation, building trust among potential customers, while podcasts offer an unspoken endorsement from hosts and a chance to connect with their engaged audience.
6. The tone of podcasts tends to be more conversational, allowing guests to showcase their personality and authenticity.
7. Podcasts offer networking opportunities with hosts, who may be potential clients, open doors for other speaking engagements or collaborations.
8. Podcasts are accessible worldwide and offer the convenience of on-demand consumption, increasing the reach of a guest's message to different time zones and locations.
9. Both traditional media and podcasts are conducive to storytelling, which helps build a stronger connection with the audience.
10. Podcast appearances can provide SEO benefits by increasing website traffic through links in show notes and social media mentions.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome social media strategist, organic social media specialist, trainer, community manager, and keynote speaker, Dorien Morin-van Dam.

We talk about:

• The Best Ways to Batch Content
• How to Repurpose Podcast Interviews
• What it Means to Agilify our Social Media Calendars
• Evergreen Content Ideas To Reignite our Social Media Conversations

About

Dorien Morin-van Dam is a social media strategist, organic social media specialist, trainer, community manager, and keynote speaker.She has been a social media professional for 10 years and has experience in a multitude of industries. Dorien started out as a local specialist working with both B2C and B2B clients and is currently working with national and international brands. She is a certified Social Media Professional and Agile Marketer. 

You'll recognize Dorien by her signature orange glasses, a nod to her Dutch heritage.

Key Takeaways

• Benefits of Batching Content: Batching social media content, such as videos, blog articles, and graphics, can save time and streamline the content creation process. It allows you to focus on one type of task at a time, reducing the need to switch between different creative mindsets. Batching also helps in better planning and scheduling content in advance, ensuring consistent and timely postings.
• Repurposing Podcast Episodes: Repurposing podcast episodes is an effective strategy to reach a broader audience and maximize content value. Different ways to repurpose include creating audiograms, turning episodes into blog posts or LinkedIn articles, and using various types of graphics and quotes from the podcast. Repetition is essential since not everyone sees content the first time it's posted.
• Finding Evergreen Content Ideas: To keep social media conversations engaging and relevant, focus on evergreen content. Share behind-the-scenes stories, business highlights, staff events, and community involvements. Highlighting customer success stories and problem-solving content can also be effective. Consume more content to get inspired and generate new ideas for your own posts.
• Efficient Content Creation for Clients: To efficiently create content for clients, create timestamps during interviews to mark salient points. Use these timestamps to assist your virtual assistant in repurposing content. Remember to find a balance between posting expert guests and guests with a substantial online audience to tap into their followers as well.

QuoteEvery single time you talk about the podcast or the episode, you try to highlight something else that they said, right? So it's not the same, but the link goes back to the same podcast each time, because when people, they don't realize they're seeing the same content. They're just realizing you're talking about the same topic.Mentioned in This Episode

Strategy Talks Podcast

Olive Kitteridge

They Ask, You Answer

Connect with Dorien Morin-van Dam

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Instagram

Twitter

Pinterest

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To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're answering more of your questions about being a podcast guest:

• How can I make sure that I'm effectively promoting myself or my business when I'm a podcast guest?
• Should I send a thank you note or follow up after the podcast interview?
• Should I provide any promotional materials or assets to the podcast host?

Key Takeaways

• Tailor your message: Understand the podcast's audience by checking the show's description and reviews. This will help you tailor your message and talking points to effectively connect with the listeners.
• When you're a podcast guest, position yourself as an authority: Share valuable tips, insights, and advice during the interview to showcase your expertise and add value to the listeners' experience.
• During your podcast interviews use compelling stories: Prepare anecdotes or case studies that illustrate how your business has helped clients or solved problems. Stories are memorable and bring the interview to life.
• Show gratitude: Send a thank-you note within 24 to 48 hours to the host, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to be a guest on the show. Personalize the message and mention enjoyable aspects of the interview.
• Share additional resources: Consider sharing articles, tools, or relevant links that could benefit the host or the listeners. This demonstrates your commitment to adding value and makes it easier for the host to share those resources.
• Prepare promotional materials: Have a high-quality headshot and biographies of different lengths (short and slightly longer) ready for the host to use. Also, provide relevant links such as your website, social media profiles, and any lead magnets or resources you mentioned during the interview.
• Make a great impression as a podcast guest: Providing these materials shows your professionalism and helps the host easily access the necessary information.

Connect with Victoria Bennion

To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome marketing strategist, Nathan Yeung.

We talk about:

• How to build a marketing team
• What marketing strategies are working right now
• Performance media buying and the level required to perform it well

About Nathan Yeung

Nathan Yeung is an experienced marketing strategist with over 10+ years of expertise in advising B2B businesses. Throughout his career, Nathan has helped numerous companies build their marketing teams from scratch, delivering successful go-to-market deployments, and launching new products into the market.

Nathan's diverse background brings a unique perspective to the marketing world. Trained in marketing, he has also worked in finance and management consulting, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of business operations and strategy. Nathan's multifaceted approach to marketing has enabled him to create innovative, data driven campaigns that have driven significant business growth for his clients.

With a passion for driving results, Nathan is dedicated to delivering measurable impact for every project he takes on. He is a natural problem-solver who excels at developing creative solutions to complex marketing challenges. Nathan's ability to think outside the box has helped his clients to stand out in their industries, and his expertise has been recognized by numerous organizations over the years.

Key Takeaways

• Building a marketing team: Start with the lowest hanging fruit and focus on practical and sustainable marketing methods that you can execute. Develop sales enablement tools and showcase your successes in a digestible format.
• Marketing strategies: All marketing strategies can work depending on the maturity of your organization. Focus on SEO, sales enablement tools, email marketing, and retargeting. Customize your strategies based on your specific business needs.
• SEO tactics: Optimize your website's content, structure, and on-site tagging for better search engine rankings. Off-site SEO involves building quality backlinks, but be cautious of using unreliable vendors or shortcuts.
• Performance media buying: Performance media buying is a highly skillful task that requires deep knowledge and experience. It involves optimizing ad platforms, manipulating data, and understanding the nuances of different platforms. Media arbitrage, a form of performance media buying, focuses on generating a profit by acquiring and selling customers.
• Paying for creative: Investing in creative elements is essential as aesthetics play a significant role in influencing value. Aesthetically appealing websites and first impressions leave a lasting impact on potential clients. Creative skills can be honed and developed, so consider working with professionals to enhance your brand's creative assets.
• Paying for operations: If you lack the experience and expertise to execute marketing operations effectively, it is wise to invest in professionals. Paying for operations increases the likelihood of success and ensures a high level of expertise in executing marketing strategies.
• Aesthetics and usability: Aesthetically appealing designs enhance user experience and positively impact brand perception. First and last impressions are particularly important for creating memorable experiences.
• Media buying complexity: Media buying platforms may appear user-friendly, but true expertise lies in understanding the intricacies and nuances that lead to successful campaigns. Manipulating platforms to buy exactly what you need requires in-depth knowledge and experience.
• Importance of creative process: The creative process is an art and skill set that not everyone possesses naturally. It involves iteration, thoughtfulness, and honing of ideas. Working with professionals who follow a meticulous creative process can yield better results.
• Paying for operations for a higher probability of success: Paying for operations provides a higher chance of achieving successful outcomes due to the experience, expertise, and track record of professionals. This can be especially valuable for entrepreneurs with limited time and resources or high-stakes ventures.

QuoteBuilding out your sales decks, building out your proposal decks, building out your one pagers, building out your case studies, I think are incredibly important in the first part of your business and really recommend every, every company to really try their best to showcase their successes, in a digestible format.Connect with Nathan Yeung

LinkedIn

Instagram

Website

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To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome Marie-Louise O'Neill who specialises in branding, design and Canva for SMEs.

We talk about:

• Do's and don'ts for creating branding
• Common mistakes people make with Canva
• How Canva can help you repurpose your podcast interviews

About

Marie-Louise specialises in branding, design and Canva for SMEs. She offers a range of logo and design 121 services, Canva group training and is an official Canva Creator.

With 20 years industry experience and a degree in branding and packaging, she's created everything from logo designs, social media templates and website design in the digital space, to printed brochures, book covers, adverts, banners and packaging.

She loves to work with entrepreneurs, coaches, marketing experts and virtual assistants to create consistent content that's on brand but with the flexibility to evolve over time.

Her design process is focussed on collaboration, meeting on Zoom and using great tools like Canva to bounce ideas and bring the design to life before her clients' eyes.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the difference between a logo and a brand. A brand encompasses colours, fonts, and the overall feeling you want to convey.
• When choosing colours for your branding, consider your ideal client and what will appeal to them. Ensure there is enough contrast for readability.
• Many small businesses use Canva, but some may feel overwhelmed or unsure about using it. It's important to learn how to use the programme effectively and take advantage of its features.
• One common mistake is not making enough changes to Canva templates. Customize colours, fonts, and other elements to make the design unique and aligned with your brand.
• Streamline your content creation process by creating templates for different types of posts. This reduces the need to start from scratch each time and ensures consistency in branding.
• Repurpose podcast interviews by creating audiograms, quote posts, and resizing content for different platforms using Canva's tools and templates.
• If you're a podcast host, consider providing guests with Canva templates they can easily customize. Share templates as copies to avoid linking and overwrite issues.
• When designing social media headers, check how they appear on both mobile and desktop views. Don't assume that Canva templates will automatically fit all platforms, as sizes and layouts can change.

Mentioned in This Episode

Canva

Connect with Marie-Louise O'Neill

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Instagram

LinkedIn

YouTube

Facebook page

Facebook group Lovely Canva Crew

Lovely Little Thoughts Journal

Learn to design with Canva with my Lovely Canva Circle programme

Let's chat – book a 121 in Calendly

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In this week's episode of The Best Guest we welcome personal and professional relationship coach Nicolas Rion. Nicolas focuses on making conflicts pain-free.

We talk about:

• Ways to communicate to engage a team
• How to move through difficult situations calmly and with less stress
• If it's possible to re-learn how to relate to others

About Nicolas Rion

Nicolas Rion is a relationship coach who supports individuals to build strong, healthy and sustainable relationships in both their professional and personal lives.

His knowledge of relationships was, in many ways, learnt the hard way. After losing his mother as a teenager and experiencing a challenging start to his professional life in the corporate world, where he often felt like a fish out of water, Nicolas embarked on a journey of self-discovery, which ultimately led him to coaching.

Nicolas started coaching in 2017, and has trained with one of the world’s leading coaching schools,the Co-Active Training Institute, accredited by the International Coaching Foundation (ICF). Nicolas is also trained in Nonviolent Communication, a framework for resolving conflict through empathy, honesty, strength and compassion.

Nicolas helps his clients build relationships based on honesty, self-respect and equality and works with them to improve their communication and self-confidence so they can build strong, healthy relationships which lead to fulfilling personal lives and professional success.

Nicolas grew up in Burgundy, France. He currently lives in East London, but loves to spend his free time travelling or kitesurfing in Sussex, or further afield.

Key Takeaways

• Conflict avoidance and constant fighting can both lead to unhealthy relationships.
• Difficult conversations can be managed calmly and with less stress. Nicolas emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, self-management, and mindset when approaching challenging discussions. Understanding your emotions, needs, and values while maintaining control over emotions is crucial.
• Adopting a mindset of transparency, curiosity, vulnerability, and assertiveness can contribute to more effective communication during difficult conversations.
• Personal growth and improvement in relationships start with individual actions. While you cannot change the other person in a relationship, you can focus on improving yourself. By aligning your behaviors with your values and practicing the habits developed through coaching, you can inspire positive changes in your relationships over time.

Mentioned in This Episode

Download the 10 Habits of Successful Relationships here

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LinkedIn

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To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/

In this week's episode of The Best Guest we're talking about the fact that it's almost quarter 3. We can start the year with ambitious goals such as getting on x number of podcasts to increase your visibility which is great. But if you've arrived mid-way through the year and you're yet to get started we have some tips to jump start your podcast interview plans.

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To learn more about working with us visit https://victoriabennion.com/