High Ticket Marketing & Sales Strategies for Gen X Women in Business (ill communication podcast)

What if the reason you're struggling to attract high-ticket clients isn't your offer—but your messaging?

In this episode, we're diving into the five stages of awareness and how they shape your marketing success. If you're frustrated by attracting the wrong type of clients, struggling to sell your premium offers, or wondering why your messaging isn't resonating with your ideal buyers, this episode is for you. I'll break down the legendary Eugene Schwartz’s five stages of awareness and show you how to align your messaging to meet your audience where they are—so you can move them seamlessly toward a confident "yes." Plus, I'll share how a simple shift in positioning helped one of my clients start attracting the high-level buyers she truly wanted.

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• The crucial mistake that’s keeping high-value clients from seeing your offer
• How to move potential buyers from “just browsing” to “ready to invest”
• The five levels of awareness and how they dictate your marketing strategy

Tune in to learn how to refine your messaging and create a direct path for your ideal, high-ticket clients to say yes to working with you!

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

If you think there's a disconnect in your messaging and positioning, book a complimentary Sales Strategy and Success call: https://bookacallwithkim.as.me/SuccessCall

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

Why isn’t your marketing working? You’re putting in the effort, crafting your message, and showing up consistently—but something isn’t clicking. In this episode, I’m sharing the one foundational piece that most small business owners overlook when writing their copy: voice of customer (VOC) research. You’ll learn how to find and use the exact words, emotions, and motivations of your ideal buyer to create messaging that instantly resonates.

I’ll break down how VOC research differs from traditional market research, why it’s critical for writing high-converting sales copy, and where to find customer language—even if you don’t have a big audience yet. Plus, I give you access to my free mini masterclass that walks you through 10 simple strategies to uncover the most powerful words for your business!

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• The reason your marketing messages might be getting ignored
• Where to find high-impact customer language—even if you’re just starting out
• The one thing that makes copy feel “magnetic” and impossible to scroll past
• How to access a free mini masterclass to level up your messaging instantly

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Uncover the 10 hacks to tap into your customer's voice in this free over-the-shoulder training: https://www.kimkiel.com/vochacks

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

Have you ever assumed silence means a missed opportunity? In this episode, I’m sharing a simple but powerful lesson: the fortune is in the follow-up! Inspired by a real-life conversation with my son about job hunting, I dive into why following up isn’t desperate—it’s strategic. Whether you're reaching out to a potential employer, a client, or a past connection, a well-timed check-in can change everything. I’ll also share insights from entrepreneur Denise Duffield-Thomas and a personal client win that proves just how effective follow-ups can be.

Topics We Cover in This Episode:

• The surprising mindset shift that makes follow-ups feel effortless
• The key reason prospects and clients don’t respond—and what to do about it
• A simple but effective follow-up email template you can start using today

Tune in to learn practical, non-pushy follow-up strategies that can boost your business, revive client relationships, and even land you new opportunities.

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Read Chill & Prosper by Denise Duffield-Thomas: https://amzn.to/44oPNBZ

Ep 18: How to use the 9-word email to get more clients: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/how-to-use-the-9-word-email-to-get-more-clients 

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

Have you ever held onto something—whether in life or business—longer than you should, simply because you’d already invested so much into it? In this deeply personal episode, I open up about a bittersweet decision my husband and I recently made and dive into the emotional rollercoaster of letting go, the fear of feeling like a failure, and the powerful lesson in recognizing when it’s time to pivot.

Maybe you’ve poured money into a program that isn’t delivering results, launched an offer that’s flopped, or stuck with a business path that no longer excites you. Why do we stay in things that aren’t working? In this episode, I break down why we cling to past investments and how to shift your mindset so you can make better, clearer decisions. If you’ve been struggling with a tough call, this episode will give you the permission—and the push—you need to move forward.

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• How the sunk cost fallacy might be keeping you stuck in the wrong business decisions
• Why quitting something isn’t always failure—it can be a strategic move forward
• A simple exercise to weigh your options objectively

Find me on social media to share your stories of making big decisions or changing your dreams!

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

What’s the real difference between a copywriter and a ghostwriter? In today’s episode, I’m diving into the differences and similarities between copywriting and ghostwriting—a topic that’s piqued my interest and curiosity over the last few months. As more and more copywriters start calling themselves ghostwriters, I couldn’t help but wonder: Is there a real distinction, or is it just smart branding?

Through my own research, polls, and deep dives into industry definitions, I uncover what each type of writer really does and when you should hire one over the other. 

Plus, I share insights on how to find a writer who can truly capture your brand’s voice—because at the end of the day, that’s what really matters. If you’re a business owner looking to outsource your writing, a writer navigating your positioning, or just someone who loves a good word nerd debate, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

Topics Covered in this Episode:

• Why some copywriters are rebranding as ghostwriters—and if it’s just a marketing strategy
• The biggest difference between copywriting and ghostwriting
• A key question to ask before hiring a writer to make sure they "get" your voice

What’s your take on the difference between ghostwriters and copywriters? Find me on social to share your take.

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Find out more about what copywriters are and do:

Episode 25: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/what-is-copywriting-and-why-is-it-important-plus-a-bonus-tip 

 Episode 74: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/a-special-ask-me-anything-episode 

What’s your take on the difference between ghostwriters and copywriters? Find me on social to share your take: http://www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy 

Need someone to take writing projects off your plate? Book a call to chat about the ways I can support you: https://bookacallwithkim.as.me/introcall

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

What if there was a simple formula that made writing your marketing content faster, easier, and more effective? In this episode of Ill Communication, I’m sharing one of my go-to copywriting formulas that belongs in every marketer’s toolkit—Challenge, Solution, Result (CSR). This versatile structure is perfect for your welcome email sequence, sales emails, and even social media posts. Whether you’re telling your own story or showcasing client success, CSR helps you build authority, provide social proof, and write content that sells—without feeling salesy.

If you caught my last two episodes on mastering your high-ticket message, you’ll recognize CSR as a powerhouse for selling premium offers. But it’s not just for high-ticket sales—it works for any offer, anytime. In this episode, I’ll break down the formula, give you a real example, and challenge you to try it out today. Let’s dive in!

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• The key copywriting formula you must have in your marketing arsenal
• How to use CSR to craft compelling case studies and client stories
• A simple challenge to help you implement this formula today

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Listen to the 2-part series on Mastering High Ticket Messaging:

Episode 132: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/how-to-market-and-sell-high-ticket-offers-part-1

Episode 133: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/counterintuitive-strategies-to-market-and-sell-high-ticket-offers-to-premium-clients-part-2

Listen to episode 76 to find out how to create scroll-stopping hooks for your content

https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/10-scroll-stopping-hooks-to-get-more-engagement-on-your-emails-and-posts

Download the Hook formula cheatsheet:

https://www.kimkiel.com/s/10-Scroll-Stopping-Hook-Formulas-Cheatsheet.pdf

Checkout the fun clothes at CoordCrew: https://coordcrew.com/

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

Why do some high-ticket offers sell effortlessly while others struggle to gain traction? The secret isn’t just in what you’re selling—it’s how you’re selling it. 

In this episode, I’m covering what strategies actually work when marketing and selling premium offers in 2025. I’ll reveal where your high-ticket buyers are really hanging out (hint: it’s not where you think), how to craft messaging that positions you as the expert they need, and why less is often more when it comes to selling high-end services. Plus, I’ll share four of my favorite copywriting frameworks to help you write faster, sell more, and attract your dream clients with confidence.

If you feel like your premium offers aren’t getting the attention they deserve, this episode will change the way you approach your marketing and sales strategy.

What You’ll Learn:

• The truth about where high-ticket buyers really hang out
• Why trying to “hack the algorithm” won’t help you sell premium offers
• The one thing high-ticket buyers always look for before making a purchase

You don’t have to write your high-ticket message by yourself. I'll guide you step-by-step through developing and perfecting your high-ticket message inside The Joy of Copy Club. Or, if you’d rather have someone handle all the research, strategy, and writing for you, I can take it off your plate. Find me on social media or send me an email to get the conversation started: [email protected]

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Listen to podcast episode 13 to see how to use the P4 formula: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/how-to-write-a-compelling-sales-message-without-being-cheesy-or-sleazy

Listen to episode 30 to hear about Before After Bridge formula: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/use-before-after-bridge-to-close-more-sales

Listen to episode 93 - How to make $150k from an ugly google doc for a deep dive into high-ticket messaging and how to use Desire-Obstacle-Solution framework: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/how-to-make-150k-from-an-ugly-google-doc

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

Selling high-ticket offers ($5K+) isn’t just about slapping on a premium price tag—it’s about speaking directly to the right buyers in the right way. High-ticket clients think, research, and invest differently, which means your messaging must reflect that.

In this two-part series, I’m unpacking what makes a high-ticket offer irresistible and the strategic shifts that help you attract, convert, and serve premium clients with confidence. We’ll dive into what works, what doesn’t, and how to position yourself as the go-to expert in your industry.

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• The key differences between high-ticket and low-ticket messaging
• What high-ticket buyers really look for before making an investment
• The biggest mistakes that repel premium clients

There’s a lot to cover, so I’m breaking it into two episodes—tune in now for part one! And if you have questions about marketing and selling high-ticket offers, reach out to me on social media—I’d love to hear from you!

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

Is the secret to growing your business actually going back to basics?

With AI tools, algorithm changes, and skeptical consumers, keeping up with online business trends can feel exhausting. But what if the real key to success isn’t about chasing the latest hacks—but instead, focusing on timeless, proven business foundations? 

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal experience with B-School, Marie Forleo’s renowned online business and marketing program, and why it was one of the best investments I ever made. I’ll walk you through the strategies that helped me build a thriving, flexible business and why getting back to marketing fundamentals—like email, content, and real human connection—can help you stand out in today’s unpredictable landscape.

If you’re a Gen X woman looking for structure, clarity, and a supportive community to help you grow your business, this episode is for you. Plus, I’m revealing the exclusive bonuses I’ve created to help you implement what you learn and build a business that fits your lifestyle. Ready to find out if B-School is right for you? Hit play now!

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• Why “old-school” marketing strategies are making a major comeback
• The biggest mistake I made before joining B-School—and how you can avoid it
• What makes B-School different from free business advice online
• The one thing that will help you gain traction faster than anything else

Get your business and marketing fundamentals dialed in. To register for the free Business Bootcamp and find out about my bonus suite for Gen X business owners, visit kimkiel.com/bschool.

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Find out more about the bootcamp, B-School and the EXTRA SPECIAL ways I’ll support you as you go through the program: www.kimkiel.com/bschool

Episode 26: The X Factor - Why Gen X women are an untapped market: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/the-x-factor-why-gen-x-women-are-an-untapped-market

Episode 27: 5 things I wish I knew before I started a small business: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/reality-bites-5-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-starting-my-business-as-a-gen-xer

Episode 128 - 7 Marketing and copywriting trends to boost sales in 2025: https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast-1/7-marketing-and-copywriting-trends-to-boost-sales-in-2025 

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!

How can your business reflect the world you want to create? In this week’s episode, I set aside my original plan to share a message that’s been too loud to ignore. Let’s talk about aligning your business with your values—boldly, intentionally, and authentically. We’re covering practical ways to show up for what matters to you, build a meaningful connection with your audience, and attract clients who care about the same things you do.

From small, quiet steps to bigger, more visible moves, I’m sharing 10 creative ways to bring your values to life in your business. These tips will help you communicate clearly, stand out in your market, and show up as a force for good in a time when your voice is needed more than ever. Let’s get brave, my friend!

Topics We Cover in This Episode: 

• A 2-second way to show you’re a safe space for marginalized communities
• How to leverage your marketing to amplify diverse voices (without overthinking it)
• Real examples of brands using their values to drive loyalty and sales

Show notes are always available at https://www.kimkiel.com/podcast!!

Resources Mentioned:

Listen to Claire Pelletreau’s podcast and her use of pronouns:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-get-paid-podcast-the-stark-reality/id1005195731

Check out the values statements in the footers of these websites:

https://carrieroseman.com/

https://www.simplifysimplify.me/

View CoordCrew’s Value Statements on their About page:

https://coordcrew.com/pages/about

See Brittney McBean’s values statement on her contact form:

https://brittanymcbean.com/contact/

Explore equity and anti-racist resources on my workshop page:

https://www.kimkiel.com/equity-workshop 

I would love to connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/KimKielCopy, Instagram: www.instagram.com/kim_kiel_copy, and Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kimkiel

Text me a question or comment!