 Did you know you could build a better blog by niching down?   Today, on the Blogger Genius Podcast, I'm interviewing Kate Shungu, from the blog, Gift of Hospitality.   It took Kate a couple of tries to find her niche but once she did, she was able to explode her growth.   Kate ultimately pivoted her food blog to: "vintage recipes for the modern cook." Having such a good niche gave Kate directions.   And what she's found is the constraints of not being able to write about everything has helped her. And as a busy mom, not having to do everything, has made her blogging life easier.   If you are wondering whether niching down can help you achieve your blogging goals, this episode is a must!   Show Notes    Digital Product WORKSHOP REPLAY – How to Turn on a New Income Stream MiloTreeCart MiloTree Pop-Up App Gift of Hospitality Join Jillian’s Newsletter to Hear about the MiloTreeCart Black Friday Sale Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes    Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast    iTunes Stitcher YouTube Spotify Amazon Music   Other Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes You’ll Like:    Secret Ways to Monetize Your Blog with Corinne Schmitt & Christina Hitchcock The Best Blog Content Tools You’ve The Best Blog Content Tools You’ve Never Heard Of with Britt Reber Boost Your Blog Traffic by Building Your Authority with Christine Pittman     Imagine a world where growing your social media followers and email list was easy…   If you are looking for ways to grow your community whether that be email whether that be social media, right now head to Milotree.com install the MiloTree app on your blog and it will do the work for you. Let it do the heavy lifting for you.   Let it pop up in front of your visitors and ask them to follow you on Instagram Pinterest, YouTube, Facebook, join your list, check out the exit intent but really get your community growing. And we’d love to help you with MiloTree. And I will see you here again next week.   Sign up for MiloTree now and get your first 30 DAYS FREE!  

#249: Grow Your Blog By Niching Down

Welcome! I'm Jillian Leslie, host of The Blogger Genius Podcast and founder of MiloTree.com & CatchMyParty.com, online business thought leader, and Stanford MBA. 

In each episode, I interview other successful bloggers, online entrepreneurs, and online business experts to talk about what's working NOW in the digital space. 

If you're a blogger or an entrepreneur, you'll definitely want to learn how to implement these newest strategies!

I break it down. I'm not afraid to ask hard questions. Real takeaways in every episode! Please read iTunes reviews to see how the podcast has helped others just like you!

This podcast is brought to you by MiloTreeCart, the easiest software for bloggers and online entrepreneurs to sell digital products and MiloTree, the smart social media pop-up app you embed on your website or blog to grow your social media following on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest, plus your email list.

Please reach out to me at jillian@milotree.com with any questions or comments. I'd love to hear from you!

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 Today I'm diving deep into the ever-evolving landscape of SEO and content creation. I'm thrilled to share with you a treasure trove of insights from my recent conversation with SEO expert and DJ, Lily Ray.   The Quest for Diverse Income Streams   Let's first talk about diversifying your income streams. Are you still tethered to traditional monetization methods like ads and affiliate links? It's time to chart a new course with MiloTreeCart. With MiloTreeCart, you can sell unlimited memberships, digital downloads, workshops, coaching, and mini-courses in a snap. Our AI sales pages are a game-changer, and I'm here to guide you through crafting your personalized digital product strategy. Book a free 20-minute Zoom call with me at milotree.com and prepare to be amazed.   Show Notes:    MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Sales Software  Book Your FREE 20-Minute Strategy Call  Lily Ray  Blog Post Checklist FREEBIE  MiloTree Pop-Up App  Join My Blogger Genius Email List  Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group  All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes    Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:    iTunes  YouTube  Spotify    The SEO Landscape: Decoding Google's Algorithm Updates   In this episode, we delve into the  recent Google algorithm updates that have sent shockwaves through the blogging community. Lily Ray, a seasoned SEO strategist, sheds light on what Google is seeking and how to adapt to these changes. We discuss the importance of expanding your digital footprint, embracing platforms like YouTube, and creating content that resonates with your audience and Google's algorithms.   Deciphering Google's Current Mindset   Google's recent updates, particularly the Helpful Content Update. (HCU), have targeted specific types of content, emphasizing expertise, authority, and trust. Lily emphasizes the importance of understanding that these cycles of updates are not new and that recovery from such hits can take time. She encourages publishers to look beyond SEO and consider  building a brand that engages with audiences across various platforms.   The Plight of Niche Bloggers   The impact of Google's updates on niche bloggers can be devastating, as seen with a Trader Joe's enthusiast who lost significant traffic overnight. Lily advises affected bloggers to diversify their content and presence, such as starting a YouTube channel,  lean into food blogging, or exploring other social media platforms like  Pinterest for traffic. This approach can help break free from the patterns that led to being grouped with negatively impacted sites.   Embracing AI in Content Creation   The rise of AI in content creation presents both opportunities and challenges. Lily cautions against mass auto-generating content, which goes against Google's guidelines. Instead, she suggests using AI tools judiciously to enhance the content creation process while maintaining originality and value.   Final Thoughts and Resources   As we conclude our interview, I invite you to revisit the basics with my updated blog post checklist, designed to ensure your posts are thorough and engaging. Download it at milotree.com/blogpostchecklist and continue building the blog and business of your dreams.   Join me on this adventure as we navigate the tides of SEO, learn from the experts, and embrace new strategies to thrive in the digital world. Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration on the Blogger Genius podcast.   Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy:    Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! with Steve Wiideman  How to Make Money Blogging in 2024 (New Trends) with Jillian Leslie   Boost Your Blog Pageviews with Pinterest Now with Kayla Watkins    MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products   I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33. 

Expert Strategies for SEO and Traffic Success

As the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast, I've had the unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of building an online business. It's a journey filled with excitement and potential, but it's not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles I've faced, and I know many of you can relate to, is managing stress and maintaining a healthy mindset amidst the chaos of entrepreneurship. This is why I'm sharing my top 10 stress relief secrets, which I hope you find helpful in your own life.  Show Notes:    Book Your FREE 20-Minute Strategy Call  MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Sales Software  MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program  MiloTree Pop-Up App  Join My Blogger Genius Email List  Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group  All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes    Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:    iTunes  YouTube  Spotify    The Reality of Online Business and Blogger Stress   In the digital world, stress levels are at an all-time high. We're all constantly grappling with Google algorithm updates, the pressure of competing with AI-generated content, and the overall uncertainties of the digital landscape. It's a lot to handle, and I've felt the weight of it myself. But through my experiences, I've developed these ten habits that have been my anchor in the stormy seas of online business and that's why I recorded this solo episode.   Here are my 10 tips to relieve stress as an online entrepreneur and blogger...   Tip 1: Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance   The first habit I can't emphasize enough is setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. Working from home blurs these lines, and without strict boundaries, burnout is inevitable. I've found that having specific work hours not only boosts my focus but also keeps my motivation levels high. It's about quality, not quantity.   Tip 2: Prioritizing Tasks with the Eisenhower Box   Next up is prioritizing tasks. The Eisenhower Box has been a game-changer for me. It's a simple yet effective method to differentiate between what's urgent and what's important. This approach has allowed me to concentrate on tasks that truly move the needle for my business, keeping the overwhelming to-do list at bay.   Tip 3: Embracing Simple Tech Tools for Productivity   In the realm of productivity, I'm all for using simple tech tools. The Pomodoro Technique, paired with straightforward tools like tomato-timer.com, has revolutionized my workflow. I also love Google Docs and Google Sheets even thought they're ugly! It's about finding tools that are easy to use, like MiloTreeCart, that get the job done so you will want to return to over and over again.   Tip 4: The Power of Connections   Another habit I hold dear is maintaining connections. Whether it's with family, friends, or business peers, nurturing relationships is vital. It's easy to feel isolated in this line of work, so building a network within your niche and leveraging the power of networking is crucial for support and growth.   Tip 5: The Importance of Continual Learning   I dedicate time each day to continual learning. Staying informed about online business trends and emerging technologies is non-negotiable. It's how I empower myself to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing digital environment.   Tip 6: Mindfulness and Gratitude   Mindfulness practices, such as expressing gratitude is central to my stress management strategy. Reflecting on blessings are not just good for my soul; they're essential for my mental clarity and well-being.   Before I go to bed. Each night, I make a list in my head of all the things I'm grateful for, and it puts everything in perspective for me. Taking this time to slow down and reflect, focusing on gratitude and how far I've come and all the blessings in my life does wonders for me, so I recommend you try that as well.   Tip 7: Get Moving   If you're not regularly moving your body, I recommend you start. It doesn't have to be intense, but what a difference it's made in my own life, especially for me who spends a lot of hours sitting in front of my computer. It gives me energy, boosts my mood, and gets me out of my head. If you hate exercise, just try walking outside. It honestly does wonders.   Tip 7: Embracing Imperfection and Setting Realistic Goals   I've learned to embrace imperfection and set realistic goals. Aiming for "B minus" work and celebrating small victories helps maintain a healthy perspective on achievement. It's about progress, not perfection. And those times when I can't reach my goals I try really hard to give myself grace. I don't always achieve it, but I have realized that punishing myself doesn't help and that if I can be gentle, it's amazing how much faster I can pick myself up and try again.   Tip 9: The Value of Feedback   Seeking feedback from trusted sources is invaluable. It offers fresh perspectives and insights that are crucial for refining business strategies and personal growth.   And as you know, I offer free 20 minute calls with bloggers and online entrepreneurs who want to start selling digital products. People tell me they get so much out of these calls because I'm unbiased. I have distance, I am fresh eyes.   So, you want people close to you who can see those opportunities. If you're feeling stuck and you're ready to explore digital products. Definitely book a 20 minute call with me.   Tip 10: Prioritizing Mental Well-Being   I try not to sweat the small stuff. It's incredibly easy to get caught up in those minor setbacks. So what I have found is that when I fixate on these small details, I can't focus on the important goals.   So I try to recognize what small in the grand scheme of things like these are the things that when I look back in a year, I won't even remember. I also try to practice letting go.   I also keep my eye on the prize, which are the big goals. I think about what the tasks are that can have a real impact on my growth and my success, and I point my north star that way. Sometimes it's just remembering that with a little bit of time, the pain will dull and it will pass. Keeping perspective is key to staying in the game, even when it feels tough.   Conclusion   In closing, I urge my fellow entrepreneurs to prioritize mental well-being. The tips and habits I've shared are more than just strategies; they're a testament to the resilience and determination needed to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. Remember to give yourself grace and seek support when needed. By sharing my journey, I hope to empower you to face the challenges of online business with confidence and a healthy mindset.   We're in this together, and with the right habits and mindset, we can not only survive but thrive in the world of online entrepreneurship.   Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy:     Are Limiting Beliefs and Imposer Syndrome Holding You Back with Maria Conde?  How to Overcome Negative Self-Talk with Laura Fuentes  Secret Truths About Selling – Part 1 (Why Is It So Uncomfortable?) with Jillian Leslie    MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products   I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.   

Top 10 Stress Relief Secrets for Bloggers

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Summer Hammons from the crafting blog, Hammons Nest. In our conversation, we delve into the heart of building a successful online community and the nuances of running a paid membership. Building a Thriving Crafting Community Summer’s journey from a brick-and-mortar store owner to an online community leader is nothing short of inspiring. She launched “The Creative Nest,” her crafting membership that quickly gained traction with its initial 170 members (and has now grown to 300). This remarkable start was a testament to the demand for a space where crafters could connect, learn, and grow together. Show Notes:  MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Software Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Hammons Nest Creative Nest Membership MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes  Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:  iTunes YouTube Spotify  The Sisterhood of Crafters One of the most striking aspects of Summer community is the warm vibe it exudes. Members refer to each other as “sisters” and “besties,” creating a warm and supportive environment. This sense of camaraderie has even extended beyond the digital realm, with members exchanging Christmas cards and engaging in other heartfelt activities. It’s a clear indication of the profound connections that can be fostered online. Content Delivery and Member Engagement Summer’s approach to content is both structured and engaging. She provides weekly live sessions, guest master classes, and themed craft tutorials that keep her members excited and involved. By offering a calendar of upcoming events and themes, she ensures that her members always have something to look forward to, which is crucial in maintaining engagement and preventing burnout. The Luxury of Membership and the Value of Community During our conversation, Summer shares her initial concerns about providing enough value and the feedback from those who left the group. She’s come to realize that her membership is considered a luxury, making the creation of a strong community even more important. The return of former members highlights the lasting impact of the connections made within her group. Understanding Member Needs Summer reflects on the revelation that some members feel overwhelmed by the content. It underscores the importance of recognizing the unique needs and expectations of her audience. Tailoring the experience to the members’ pace is a delicate balance that Summer navigates with care. Fostering a Family-Like Atmosphere Creating a community that genuinely cares about each other involves more than just shared interests; it requires a family-like atmosphere. Summer and I discuss the power of conversational interactions and the significance of making personal connections. From video calls to Christmas cards, these personal touches make members feel seen and heard, which is the cornerstone of a strong community. Creating Urgency and Excitement To keep the membership vibrant, Summer employs strategies like offering special bonuses and hosting virtual workshops. These tactics create a sense of urgency and excitement, drawing in new members and keeping the existing ones engaged. The role of VIP members as advocates for the community is also crucial, as they receive exclusive perks and help spread the word about the value of the membership. Embracing Technology and Authenticity A common misconception is that expensive online tools are necessary for success. Summer emphasizes the need to start simple and be adaptable. Our discussion highlights the value of authenticity and genuine connections over polished content. Embracing imperfection and being relatable resonates more with audiences and fosters a more authentic community. Conclusion My conversation with Summer Hammons was a deep dive into the essence of community building and content delivery in the online space. Her successful crafting membership serves as a shining example of how passion, creativity, and a structured approach can lead to a thriving community. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, remember that connection, authenticity, and adaptability are your greatest assets. Join me on the Blogger Genius podcast for more insights and stories from the front lines of blogging and community creation.  Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy:   Monetize Your Passion Through a Successful Membership with Summer Hammons  Starting a Paid Membership is Easier than You Think: Step-by-Step Guide – Solo Episode with Jillian Leslie Start a Membership and Quit Your 9-5 with Amanda DiNovo  MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.

How to Build a Vibrant Community for Your Paid Membership

 Today I delve into the world of Pinterest marketing. I'm Jillian Leslie, the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast and co-founder of MiloTreeCart, and today I'm excited to share the insights from my recent conversation with Kayla Watkins, a Pinterest marketing expert who specializes in helping bloggers amplify their organic traffic and monetize their content.   The Ever-Evolving World of Pinterest   In the digital age, staying ahead of the curve is crucial, and for niche bloggers, the recent Google updates have been a game-changer. As someone who's passionate about helping fellow bloggers diversify their income streams, I've seen many turn to selling digital products as a viable option. In fact, I offer a free 20-minute digital product strategy call to help develop a digital product strategy and share best practices for monetization success.   During my chat with Kayla, we explore the current trends in Pinterest marketing and how to make the most of this visual platform. Kayla's expertise in crafting effective Pinterest strategies to increase pageviews is invaluable, especially for bloggers in the food, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle categories.   Show Notes:    MiloTreeCart  Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me  MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program  Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create?  Kayla Watkins  MiloTree Pop-Up App  Join My Blogger Genius Email List  Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group  All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes  Tailwind  Canva    Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:    iTunes  YouTube  Spotify    The Art of Pinterest Optimization   Pinterest is more than just a collection of beautiful images; it's a search engine marketing tool that requires a keen understanding of keyword research, content optimization, and pinning strategy. Kayla emphasizes the importance of finding the right keywords so you can create fresh pins to pin to your relevant boards, and updating existing blog content to stay relevant and maximize engagement.   She also shares her approach to content scheduling and distribution, recommending tools like Tailwind to schedule pins and Canva for designing eye-catching Pinterest pins. Kayla's advice on pin design, Pinterest boards, pin titles and descriptions is clear: keep them concise, informative, and keyword-rich to resonate with Pinterest users.   The Long Game: Building Sustainable Traffic from Pinterest   One of the most striking points Kayla makes is the long-term nature of Pinterest traffic. Unlike the instant gratification of platforms like Instagram, Pinterest rewards patience and persistence. It's about trial and error, refining strategies over time, and understanding that significant results may take months to materialize.   Kayla also touched on the future of Pinterest, predicting a continued focus on e-commerce. She encourages businesses to align their strategies with user behavior on the platform and to consider Pinterest ads to amplify viral content and evergreen posts.   Leveraging Pinterest for Long-Term Stability   Pinterest stands out as a social media platform that drives traffic to blogs or websites, offering a level of stability and control that's hard to find elsewhere. Kayla contrasted this with the fleeting nature of success on other social media platforms, highlighting Pinterest's role as a reliable partner in a business's long-term strategy as long as you understand the Pinterest algorithm.   Repurposing Blog Content for Maximum Impact and Pageviews   During our conversation, Kayla shares a personal success story about repurposing her Instagram content on Threads, the new social media platform by Instagram. By translating her most saved Instagram posts to fit the Threads format, she's seen a significant increase in engagement and email subscribers. This strategy has proven to be a game-changer, allowing her to insert her expertise into relevant conversations and grow her community.   Key Takeaways and Next Steps   My biggest takeaway from this enlightening discussion is the importance of a comprehensive Pinterest marketing strategy. It's essential to have a defined blog niche, solve problems for your audience, and incorporate relevant keywords into your content. Remember, Pinterest is a marathon, not a sprint, and it rewards those who are consistent and strategic in their content creation.   If you're looking to diversify your income and drive traffic to your blog, consider leveraging tools like MiloTreeCart to sell digital products and create sales pages with ease. It's an excellent way to start monetizing your content and expanding your revenue streams.   I hope you've found this blog post informative and inspiring. If you're enjoying the insights shared here, please consider leaving a rating on iTunes. Your feedback helps me continue to bring you valuable content and expert guests. I look forward to connecting with you again soon.    Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! with Steve Wiideman  Unleashing the Power of Pinterest with AI with Missy Lund   Cutting-Edge Social Media Tactics for 2024 with Lauren Litt    MiloTreeCart, the Easiest Way to Sell Digital Products   I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33. 

Boost Your Blog Pageviews with Pinterest Now!

 I'm Jillian Leslie, the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast and the founder of MiloTree. In my latest episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Madison Wetherill, a food blogger, web designer, and podcaster at Grace + Vine Studios. Today, we're talking about the essential traffic strategies food bloggers (and other niche bloggers) need to know to compete in today's market.   Show Notes:    MiloTreeCart  Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me  MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program  Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create?  Joyfully Mad Kitchen  Grace + Vine Studios  MiloTree Pop-Up App  Join My Blogger Genius Email List  Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group  All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes  Ahrefs  Airtable  Canva  ChatGPT    Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast:    iTunes  YouTube  Spotify    The Power of Niche Specialization and Personal Branding   One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the significance of finding your niche. Madison emphasizes that by niching down, food bloggers can establish themselves as experts and cultivate a dedicated audience. Personal branding goes hand in hand with this, as it's crucial to connect with your audience on a personal level. By showcasing your human side and creating relatable content, you forge a stronger bond with your readers.   Adapting to Industry Changes and Optimizing for E-E-A-T   We delve into the concerns that come with shifts in ad networks, Google algorithms, and the advent of AI technology. Madison's advice? Focus on building personal connections and optimize your website for E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). This not only helps in establishing credibility but also in gaining the trust of your audience.   The Art of Crafting an Engaging About Page   Your "About page" is more than just a biography; it's a strategic tool to convey authority and trustworthiness. Madison highlights the importance of including a personal photo and linking to a well-crafted about page. This balance showcases your expertise while also addressing your audience's needs and interests.   Monetization Strategies: Beyond Traditional Ads   The conversation also covers monetization strategies for food bloggers. We discuss the potential of diversifying income streams through digital products like paid meal plans, newsletters, and ebooks. The goal is to provide specific and valuable content that solves your audience's problems, thereby building a community of loyal supporters.   Essential Tools for Food Bloggers   Madison shares her favorite tools, which include Ahrefs for SEO and keyword research, Airtable for project management, and the Kadence framework for website customization. I also chimed in with the mention of ChatGPT and Canva as indispensable tools for bloggers.   Building a Community and Offering Value   Our discussion highlightsthe shift from relying solely on ad revenue to creating valuable digital products and nurturing a strong community. The key is to connect with your audience, address their problems, and build trust through personalized and niche-specific content.   Remember, food blogging is now more than just recipes—it's about the stories, the expertise, and the connections we make.   Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy:    Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers!  How to Make Money Blogging in 2024 (New Trends)   Advanced Coaching Tips for Food Bloggers    MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products   I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank 

#249: Grow Your Blog By Niching Down

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