Maria Lucey launched her YouTube channel with zero experience—and just months later, it helped her walk away from her full-time job. In this episode, Maria shares the exact strategies she used to turn YouTube into a powerful growth engine for her blog, email list, and income. From driving traffic with just one video, to landing brand deals, building authority with Google, and busting every excuse you’ve heard about why you “can’t” do YouTube—this episode is packed with tactical takeaways and serious inspiration.

If you’ve been sitting on starting a channel, this is your sign to hit record.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• vidIQ
• TubeBuddy
• Maria Lucey Dietitian
• gling
• Final Cut Pro
• iMovie
• Youtube

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e257-the-youtube-strategy-that-grew-her-blog-her-email-list-and-her-bank-account/

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You know your stuff—but if no one knows you’re the expert, it’s time to change that. In this episode, we’re joined by Samantha Milner to talk about how to position yourself as the go-to voice in your niche. From getting featured in the media to landing radio interviews and becoming the person people call when they need a quote, a guest, or a go-to authority—we’re sharing exactly how it’s done. Plus, we're spilling behind-the-scenes stories from our own media appearances and what we’ve learned about showing up with confidence and credibility.

If you're ready to be seen, heard, and respected as the expert you already are, this episode is your next move.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Kitchen Gadgets Club
• Amazon Store Sam Milner

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e256-youre-the-expert-now-lets-make-sure-everyone-knows-it/

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In a world full of filters, algorithms, and “shoulds,” being yourself is your biggest advantage. In this episode, we sit down with KariAnne Wood to talk about what it really means to build a personal brand rooted in authenticity and confidence. We’re breaking down how to create genuine connection with your audience, why desperation repels and confidence attracts, and how to show up online in a way that feels true to you—not just strategic.

If you’ve ever struggled with how to stand out without selling out, this conversation is your reminder that your realness is the magic.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Thistlewood Farms Membership
• Thistlewood Farms
• Thistlewood & Co

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e255-authenticity-isnt-a-buzzword-its-your-superpower/

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AI is here, it’s evolving fast—and ignoring it could cost you. In this episode, we’re joined by SEO expert Casey Markee to talk about why bloggers need to stop fighting AI and start learning how to use it strategically. We dig into what the data from 2025 blog audits is revealing, how AI buttons are performing since their launch, and what’s coming in 2026 that you need to be ready for. Plus, Casey shares bold predictions for what SEO and blogging will look like over the next five years—and how to stay ahead of the curve.

If you're serious about future-proofing your content, this episode is your wake-up call.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

inlinks.net

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e254-ai-isnt-going-away-heres-what-smart-bloggers-are-doing-about-it/

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Masterminds can be game-changers—or giant wastes of time and money. In this episode, we’re joined by Jen Wooster to pull back the curtain on what really makes a mastermind work. We’re talking about how to choose the right coaching or mastermind for your goals, what has to be in place for it to actually deliver results, and the red flags to watch out for before you commit. If you've ever joined a program and felt underwhelmed, or you're wondering if a mastermind is right for you, this episode is your no-fluff guide to getting clarity before you invest.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e253-the-truth-about-masterminds-what-works-what-doesnt-and-what-no-one-tells-you/

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Everyone’s talking about AI like it’s going to steal your job or ruin your creativity—but we’re here to tell you the truth: AI isn’t the enemy. 

In fact, it’s become one of the most powerful tools in our business. In this episode, we’re breaking down exactly how we’re using AI to save time, stay organized, and focus on what actually moves the needle. 

From content creation to systems and strategy, we’re showing you what’s working, what’s not, and how you can start using AI like a smart, scalable team member—without losing your voice or your mind.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Rocket Notebook
• Nano Banana
• Reve.com
• Imagine.art
• Get Your Tickets to the Inaugural Smart Influencer Summit 2026

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e252-ai-isnt-the-enemy-its-our-new-favorite-team-member/

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Most business owners are leaving money on the table—especially when it comes to healthcare. In this episode, we’re uncovering the little-known, IRS-approved strategy that could save you thousands. It’s completely legal, surprisingly simple, and one of the smartest ways to pay for medical expenses tax-free. If you’re ready to stop overpaying and start keeping more of your money, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• HRA
• IRS Publication 969 (QSE HRA)
• IRS Publication 502 - what is covered
• Get Your Tickets to the Inaugural Smart Influencer Summit 2026

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/251-put-money-back-in-your-wallet-with-this-hack-most-business-owners-dont-know/

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What if you could legally pay yourself—and not owe a dime in taxes on it?

In this episode, we’re uncovering one of the best-kept secrets in the tax world. Most business owners have no idea this strategy exists—and that means they’re leaving money on the table. We’re breaking down what it is, how it works, and exactly how to use it to keep more of your hard-earned cash.

This isn’t shady. It’s smart. And if you’re not using it yet, now’s the time.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Augusta Rule: Internal Revenue Code Section 280A
• Get Your Tickets to the Inaugural Smart Influencer Summit 2026

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e250-keep-more-of-your-money-the-loophole-youre-probably-missing/[WEBSITE URL HERE]

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We’re not dragging old habits into the new year.

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the changes we’re making in our business for 2026—what we’re ditching, what we’re doubling down on, and how we’re setting ourselves up for less chaos and more momentum. From smarter systems to a sharper strategic focus, we’re sharing the mindset shifts and operational tweaks that will help us make a bigger impact without burning out.

If you’re craving more clarity, more ease, and more results in your business—this one’s for you.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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ITEMS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Get Your Tickets to the Inaugural Smart Influencer Summit 2026

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e249-2026-is-not-a-repeat-smarter-systems-sharper-focus-bigger-impact/

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The agenda is live—and it’s packed.

In this episode, we’re giving you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the sessions and strategies we’re bringing to the very first Smart Influencer Summit. From building systems and scaling smarter to turning your content into consistent revenue, this isn’t your average conference—it’s a hands-on, no-fluff experience designed for creators who are actually doing the work.

If you’re on the fence about attending, this episode will help you decide—and spoiler: you’re going to want to be in the room.

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DISCLAIMER: This audio and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of our recommended products, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our show and allows us to continue to provide you with valuable content. Thank you for your support!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Get Your Tickets to the Inaugural Smart Influencer Summit 2026

FULL SHOW NOTES

https://thesmartinfluencer.com/e248-the-smart-influencer-summit-agenda-just-dropped-lets-break-it-down/

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Support the show