The Workshop Weekly

With Rick Magennis

By now most of us are familiar with the concept of affiliate marketing.

It is basically being paid to promote a product or service using your own network and influence. And yes, you do have influence being paid to promote something that you actually like to people who trust your recommendations is a pretty cool gig and many of the programs and products that you already use and love offer affiliate programs.

Rick Magennis has been an affiliate marketing guru for nearly a decade, with most of that time managing affiliate programs for other brands. He believes in growing sales the right way for his clients. And Rick is the president and founder of Bearcat Media Media an affiliate marketing agency. They're all about driving the right results for each client. He has recently run a whole event dedicated to affiliate management best practices for brands called affiliate management Expo.

I am really looking forward to this conversation with Rick today and I think you're about to learn a whole lot about affiliate marketing, whether you are running an affiliate marketing program yourself for your business, or if you're thinking about being an affiliate as an individual. So let's get started.

• How starting out as an affiliate inspired Rick to be the affiliate marketing expert that he is today. 2:04
• What is an affiliate marketer and how do you make money being one? 4:31
• Basic steps to getting started as an affiliate marketer. 6:58
• Protecting your own credibility by - promoting products and services that you actually stand behind. 8:53
• Getting started using affiliate marketing in your own business. 11:07
• Determining the right amount of commission for referrals. 13:09
• Affiliate management software to help you get off the ground and running. 16:14
• Affiliate marketing strategy, the do's and don'ts. 21:44
• Quality over quantity, finding the best affiliates for the job and setting them up for success. 23:47
• The ethics of affiliate marking and how to implement ethical practices. 28:57

I love that we focused on the idea of promoting products that you truly use and love.

Affiliate marketing has gotten a bad rap lately and there are a million examples of people using unethical practices to make a sale. You can tell when someone isn't being sincere in their promotion and it certainly doesn't help build the trust factor... run far away from those folks.

But if you really do love something, earning a nice tip for sharing it is a great way to make a passive income. I know I trust people in my networks for recommendations over cold and undirected advertisements. Start today by making a list of products or services that you already use and see if they currently offer a program that you can join. When it is time to start your own affiliate marketing program in your business, be sure that your affiliates first of all truly love what you're selling. And second of all, and this one is important. You want to double ensure that your affiliates values align with your values. Because remember, they are an extension of you and your brand.

Honesty is the best policy here.

Until next time workshop warrior. Thank you so much for spending part of your day with me today. I just love hanging out. So let's do it again next week. Bye for now.

Website: https://affiliateprogrammanagement.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-magennis/

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

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

The Rick Magennis Podcast

Affiliate marketing software: ShareASale, CJ Affiliate, Shopify, WooCommerce, Affiliatly

What you need to know to start and affiliate program - Blog

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Shannon Droeske

Ethics and marketing. Sometimes we struggle to reconcile the two especially as we mindlessly scroll.

With the rise of the Internet and the boom of social media as a marketing platform. We are bombarded with messages every single day. These messages and the tactics used to push them can be expertly crafted, and based on psychology to target people in unethical ways, often exploiting vulnerabilities. And I don't know about you, but that doesn't sit well with me.

Today's guest Shannon Droeske, has spent nearly 15 years in the marketing industry, she is on a mission to create a more ethical and inclusive online business culture. And she refuses to engage in tired sales and marketing strategies devised by the good old boys, and is committed to cultivating new paths that raise the standard of what it means to do business as usual.

I am so excited to chat about ethical marketing with Shannon today, you have no idea I need a different word because exciting isn't a good enough word anymore. This topic has swept me off the ground and I could literally talk about it for days.

• How she came to be a marketing expert and the types of clients she serves. 2:51
• What it means to be an ethical marketer, using that power for good, and the psychology behind it. 5:48
• The harm of “Bro-marketting”. 10:08
• Emotional decision making and how traditional marketing plays on that vulnerability. 11:26
• Protecting ourselves from harmful marketing and the role of shame. 15:17
• How to sell in a way that's ethical. 20:09
• Advice for people as they navigate a toxic self-help industry and the marketing that supports it. 23:00
• How to further in understanding marketing and use it for a force of good. 40:21

Take a step back, give yourself a minute, and then connect back to why am I doing this in the first place? Why this product? Why this service? And what's that ripple effect?

I think we can all remember a time when we’ve individually been suckered by unethical marketing techniques...like that pretty dress impulse purchase that graced my scroll and arrived at my doorstep looking absolutely nothing like it did in the cute video of the tanned model twirling and the return shipping cost as much as the dress so I was stuck with a pile of cheap fabric and a garment that looked like a… I won't get into that.. .  but, it doesn’t feel good to be on the receiving end of sneaky marketing tactics so why would we use these same techniques in our own businesses?

Our businesses are our greatest tool to create change, and building this change-making machine requires marketing… and that is okay! Ensuring that our marketing efforts are focused on helping people and not just lining pockets will ensure that our message is authentic and truly resonates with people who would buy our products anyway… they just need to know they exist! 

It is a beautiful thing to help another human. I think it is safe to say that, if you are listening to this episode, you have a product or service that you can feel good about marketing to the world because you know it will help someone. And I know you’re here because you care more about that than the money anyway. I mean, we live n a capitalist world, so money is great, but the REAL currency in life is the quality of your relationships, in my humble opinion. I would love to know if you agree.

I really love Shannons advice of defining success for yourself, and not what is showing up on your Instagram feed, curated by people who are trying to define success for you. So, pay attention. When you see a fit body, fancy car, handbag or house, in your scroll, I challenge you to dig a little deeper before you decide this is the true picture of success.

In a world where hussle culture is doing more harm than good, Shannon recommends that we take a step back and re-connect to our why. Don’t lose touch with why you started this business of yours in the first place. And remember, your legacy is not your paycheque.

We might have to continue this conversation in a part two, I could talk quite literally about this topic for days.

Websites: https://shannondroeske.com/

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

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Amy Lafko

Making the move from a solopreneur to a teampreneur can be daunting and, frankly, a little terrifying. And, If I know you, I know you are probably trying to do all the things by yourself because you think it’s just easier that way.

Maybe you are even listening to this podcast as you juggle five other tasks… no judgement my friend. It’s part of what makes you so amazing.

Well, today's guest, Amy Lafko, is here to offer her best tips and tricks to make the move to hire, and help business owners and leaders dedicate their time where it is most needed. Amy brings the secrets of the People 1st Paradigm to companies everywhere. Working with clients to transform their organisation and their leadership, Amy’s mission is to shift the way owners and leaders view the lifecycle of their employees.

If you are thinking of expanding your human resources or onboarding new talent, this is the episode for you!

• Amy's journey to becoming the Human Resources guru that she is today. 2:21
• Why it is important to listen to your team and the risks when you don't. 3:45
• How setting up clear expectations will help put you on the path to success and focus your energies. 5:49
• The delegation game changer, how to let go of tasks that someone else can handle. 7:35
• Being CEO-centric and hiring right, the first time. 10:58
• Tools and assessments to make sure you are finding the right fit for your team. 14:56
• How to fully step into your CEO 19:31
• Interviewing and onboarding new team members and the value of regular check ins. 20:54
• Achieving work/life balance while running a successful business. 24:25
• Amy's upcoming book and key accountabilities template. 28:10

Please go make your list of everything that you're doing in your business. And then once you've got that laundry list, start paring it down. I want you to look at what do you love doing, what's your zone of genius what takes your talent. And then I want you to start to figure out how do I shed the rest of it, how do I build a team, so that I can do what I do well, and move the rest to other people.

The moral of the story is: if you put all the time and attention into your customers while skipping over your staff, you are going to have a bad time. 

And, consider this your permission slip to delegate and pass off work that is not within your zone of genius, because doing so will actually help your business! 

By being crystal clear with your expectations, you aren’t being unpleasant, you are setting up your potential hire for success. Take advantage of the many tools out there to ensure that you are hiring the best staff for you and your business, because remember, what you are really hiring is an extension of you and your brand. 

This episode has inspired me to take Amy up on her advice to make a complete list of everything I do in my own business and start figuring out what else I can outsource so I can focus on what I love to do. I suggest you do it too!

I can’t wait to check her book that comes out this summer

Thank you for joining me for yet another episode. You’re the reason I do it! Bye for now!

Websites: https://cairncs.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amy.lafko1/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/cairn-consulting-solutions/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-lafko/

People First: a Proven Method for Exceptional Healthcare Practice

Key Accountabilities Template

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Katie Wight

Surveys say that 68% of people do not think that brands share interesting content. Yikes!

Social media has really become an essential platform for businesses to connect with their customers so using it effectively is important, but that doesn’t mean that it is easy. People connect with a brand when it has a personality and our next guest is here to teach us just how to perform our content. 

Katie is the founder of KW Content, global content and social media marketing agency that develops and launches content and social media programs for purpose-driven brands. Her newest project is called Strong Brand Social and they provide social media marketing education that empowers small brands to develop their own high-performing marketing programs that are guaranteed to drive growth.

Katie helps to simplify the process and demystify the art of social media marketing to offer focus, efficiency, and measurable results to small business owners, brand directors, and social media marketers. I definitely learned new things during our conversation today and i am sure you will too!

Let’s dig in!

• Katie’s own entrepreneurial journey and her background in marketing. 2:17
• Creative marketing and performance marketing... What is the difference and why that matters. 5:27
• Why it is important to keep your branding and social strategy in house. 6:42
• The difference between connecting with a brand V.S. an individual on social media. 8:54
• Examples of brands who personify their social media accounts. 10:25
• Tips to bring these strategies into your own business and brand. 12:43
• How to discover what customers/clients really want to see from your brand. 17:51
• The narrative of your brand, weaving storytelling into your content as a strategy. 21:21
• Don't reinvent the wheel, how to recycle your content effectively. 24:25
• Get one step closer to being more strategic with your content with these tips. 29:15

Build it, and they will come. 

I loved this conversation because it stressed that you really do need to focus on building a community that your audience can visualize themselves in and help them connect with your brand.

Imagining your brand as a single person with a very specific personality allows you to authentically reach your audience and understanding the type of information that your audience is seeking is sure to stop their scroll.

Centering your customer in your brand story is a sure fire way to help them connect with your fabulous offer.

Thank you for making me a part of your day today. It is always such an honour. 

Until next week, bye for now.

Websites: https://kwcontent.com/ and https://www.strongbrandsocial.com/

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

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

Glossier on Instagram as a great example!

Are you a growing brand that’s looking to scale? Get Katie's guide on the 7 proven steps we take that work every single time. Visit the website to download!

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With D. Nadia Brown

Sometimes, sales can just feel icky. Like, have you ever started a conversation with someone and things were going great and then BAM comes the sales pitch. The rest of the conversation can feel awkward and forced. 

Not only does it suck to be on the receiving end of an unwanted sales pitch but it can also be uncomfortable when it comes time for you to make a pitch… gatta pay those bills right?

Today’s guest here is to take the pressure out of sales and build a sales process that converts consistently without feeling salesy. Dr. Nadia Brown is a sales strategist, consultant, trainer, and founder of The Doyenne Agency. She works with business owners, companies, and corporations sales teams using the Consistent Sales Method™ and is the author of the book Selling Like a Lady: Courage Diary book.

She brings over fifteen years of leadership experience helping people achieve their goals while respecting people and our relationships with them. Dr. Nadia’s clients have seen real results and I am so excited to dig into this conversation with her. Because guess what, You can be in business and make money in a way that respects people and your relationships with them. What Dr Nadia has to say might surprise you and in the very least, it will leave you feeling a lot less icky about selling.

Are you ready?

• How a love/hate relationship with sales inspired her to find a new way to sell and build her business. 2:30
• How we can sell without feeling “icky” about it. 4:59
• How to build a sales process that converts consistently. 9:02
• What it looks like to nurture somebody who may become your customer in the future and build a pipeline. 11:09
• Getting started and scoring your leads. 12:56
• Qualifying leads, why quality is better than quantity. 14:52
• Dealing with objections and why you don't need to overcome them. 20:59
• How to help someone believe your product is worth it and see the value that you offer. 24:03
• The number one secret to relationship driven sales. 27:15
• Overcoming your fear of "selling". 31:05
• Prioritizing activities that promote you offer. 32:48
• Dr. Nadia Brown’s book: Selling like a Lady and her fabulous free resource. 34:25

Commit to taking imperfect action, it won't be perfect, just do it. Just take the action.

I feel significantly less icky about sales after this conversation with Dr. Nadia. It really is about building and nurturing a genuine relationship with your customer. It is totally okay that your product or service isn’t for everyone so count those unsubscribes as a blessing that you can now focus your valuable attention on those who get the most value from your offer. Investing in a relationship is never a waste of time.

Most people don’t get married on the first date and I hope this chat with Dr. Nadine helps you feel more confident on your “first date” with a potential customer. Maybe that person will like you so much that they are willing to go on another date, and another, and another… you get the point. 

Until next time, Workshop Warrior!

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

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

Website: https://thedoyenneagency.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DoyenneLeadership1

Courageous Conversations That Convert Checklist

Selling Like a Lady - Dr. Nadia Brown

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Doris Fullgrabe

Do you know your personality type?

The internet is full of personality tests of all types. Knowing your personality type is more than just fun, it can be incredibly useful in your everyday life and business. Understanding why you behave and think the way you do will help you optimize your own productivity and effectiveness.

Today's guest, Doris Fullgrabe, is a Myers-Briggs®Master Practitioner, an accredited coach, and licensed to facilitate a number of other psychological type models. After 10 years in leadership development and preparing expat couples for their international assignments, she now works with individuals, business owners, and couples who want to feel more connected to themselves and each other. 

I love personality tests and I can’t wait to dig into this fun and interesting topic with Doris to learn how to make your personality work for you.

• How Doris came to be a Myers-Briggs master practitioner. 2:19
• An introduction to personality foundations - what are they and how they can help you as an entrepreneur. 3:53
• How understanding your personality type can be used as a tool to help your clients. 6:16
• Different personality tests and their scope, why Myers Briggs is different. 8:54
• Demystifying personality type acronyms. 14:25
• Changes in personality and developing as a well rounded person. 16:54
• Societal expectations and how they shape our perceptions of ourselves... and why they are often wrong. 21:45
• Digging deeper - Questions that entrepreneurs can ask themselves. 25:01
• Outline of Myers-Briggs personality types and key entrepreneurial traits. 34:15
• Personality types and trails. 36:24
• Recognizing personality based stress triggers and tips on dealing with them. 43:03

You already know what's right for you. Honor your preferences. You're in business for yourself because you want to do it your way. So don't get distracted by how other people do. There's, I think it was Roosevelt who said, comparison is the thief of joy. So go with your energy because life is hard enough right now, do the stuff that you like, Know thyself, love thyself, and the rest is gravy.

I have the tab open right now to sign up for Doris’s course and I have her free resource bookmarked. I am totally going to take her up on that discovery call too!

I love how she approaches this topic like your personality is your superpower that can be used to our advantage. Her tips are practical and you can implement them today and see a real difference in your personal and professional life.

Knowing yourself intimately and using that knowledge to leverage your strengths will help you honor your preferences which is the whole reason you became an entrepreneur...right?

I hope that you enjoyed this episode, thank you so much for joining us today, and until next week workshop warriors, let that personality of yours shine so bright you’ll need UV protection. Ok. That was lame. Until next week my friend.

Coaching - www.dorisfullgrabe.com

Couples Premarital Prep - www.yourloveprofiles.com

16personalities.com

Personality Type Self Discovery - Find Your Best Fit Pattern

Youtube - Self Discovery Best Fit Mindset

Who Are You at Your Core Quiz

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Connie Vanderzanden

Money is always an uncomfortable topic. I mean, people don’t joyously chit chat about taxes and financial planning at the dinner table, right?

I think it is safe to say that most entrepreneurs just want to do the work but many of us are guilty of putting financial planning on the back burner. We all know that we need to get cozy with our business finances but just seem to get stuck and continue with bad habits.

Today's guest, Connie Vanderzanden, is on a mission to help entrepreneurs live the lifestyles they desire by learning the simple steps, structure, and discipline to create and save money. With 34 years of accounting and bookkeeping experience, a variety of industry knowledge, and her own real-life business growth journey since 2001, Connie developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System, focusing on cash flow planning that creates profitable and sustainable businesses.

Connie is here to help you get on track and turn your cash eating business into a self sustaining machine that actually pays you.

• What brought Connie into the world of money and finances and why she loves mentoring businesses. 3:32
• The common mistakes people make that puts them in tough financial positions and how to avoid them. 5:47
• Starting the journey to transform your cash eating business to a money eating machine. 10:54
• Tips to understanding your most basic and minimal financial commitments. 13:48
• Setting up a cash handling system. 17:53
• Some quick and easy actions to start you on a healthy financial path. 24:03
• Savings and why you need a cash reserve. 26:45
• Resisting the urge to spend every dollar and change your money mindset. 30:13
• Making intentional money related decisions as an entrepreneur. 33:17

Have a profit cushion. Create a system in your business where your savings, a little bit of money, half a percent to up to 5% or 15% if you're more successful business, but something that creates a cash cushion so that you don't have to be dependent on a bank loan. You don't have to be dependent on credit card or pay those outrageous interest rates that you have can actually physically see how money is supporting you and your business.

Connie’s honesty is so refreshing. I love that she reminds us that money isn’t good or bad but a tool for us to make a difference in the world. 

We need to let go of the shame around not being great with finances, especially when we have people like her around to help guide us with expert advice and actions that we can implement into our lives… today!

Understanding our cash flow is so important to a successful and sustainable business, and Connie provided us with a ton of resources to help us get there - be sure to check out her socials for all the goodies.

LinkedIn: Connie.Vanderzanden1

Website: www.profitwithconnie.com

Instagram: @Connie.Vanderzanden

YouTube: Profit With Connie

Quickbooks

Connie's Resource Vault

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Mylène Després

If there is one good thing that has come about recently, it is that people are really making an effort to support their local businesses and this is made easier when you see these businesses pour their heart and soul into their work. 

Community focused businesses are feeling the love and thriving with an outpouring of support from the communities they serve. Today’s guest embodies what it means to be a heart-centered entrepreneur.

Mylène Després turned her professional life upside down in pursuit of making a bigger community impact, and founded La Station in order to support entrepreneurs by sharing her knowledge and connections. Working with small businesses, entrepreneurs, and not-for-profit organizations, Mylène’s goal was to help them level up to make a bigger impact.

Today’s episode is a little different. It is simply a candid conversation with a heart centered entrepreneur who I believe has something important in common with you, and that is, her desire to leave people better than she found them.

This conversation with Mylène goes deep and may be triggering to our friends in the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced discrimination on their entrepreneurial journey. 

Now, without further ado, let’s get heart centered with Mylène.

• Mylène story and why she chooses to bring her heart into her work. 2:20
• The importance of reconnecting with people genuinely as a heart centered entrepreneur. 5:12
• What does professional really mean? Questioning how we gather, connect, and what topics are "appropriate" as we start to reconnect after a pandemic. 10:55
• Retro inspection, asking yourself about your values and what you care about. 11:35
• How purpose in your work can help your mental health. 14:35
• Issues with a our current capitalistic mindset and recognizing our privilege to better the system. 16:55
• What listeners can do today to help contribute to a better system. 18:34
• Tough conversations, why it is important to inform yourself on important topics. 21:45
• How we can return to social media instead of business media. 29:12
• What is heart-centered networking? 35:03
• The economy... and what matters more. 36:16
• How she recommends listeners get started introducing their values, their beliefs and their heart-centeredness into their day to day lives and business. 41:06

Be human. Be yourself and making mistakes is part of it. We will all make mistakes, whether it's something that we say that has roots in racism, or mis-gendering somebody - we will all make mistakes. The important part to remember as you're opening up, is that it's very scary to put yourself out there. But if you're putting yourself out there in the most vulnerable way you can and with not the intention of being perfect, but with the intention of learning, you can't go wrong. And when you make a mistake, you apologize, and you do better next time. That's it. That's all there is to it.

I am both inspired and humbled after this conversation with Mylène. Her desire to make her community shine is undeniable and has not gone unnoticed.

Her willingness to share her story with me so openly affirms that she really does walk the walk and integrates her passions into her work. Her abundance mindset has afforded her so many opportunities and her flexibility as an entrepreneur has made it possible for her to pursue meaningful projects and connections.

We can all learn from this conversation with Mylène and I hope that you were also inspired to center your heart in your business.

Thank you for spending some time with me today, I know there are all kinds of things you could be doing right now but you chose to hang out with me. See you next time!

Facebook: LaStationInc

Website: LaStationSupport.com

Instagram: @LaStationInc

21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act: Helping Canadians Make Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples a Reality Check.

Seeing Gender

Book recommendations: ANYTHING Brene Brown

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

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If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

An apple a day keeps the doctor away but have you considered that your website may also need a check up?

There's a lot of marketing advice out there, but if you don't have a killer website, none of that matters. Your website is the last stop a client makes before they reach out, and if it sucks, you're dead in the water.

Words are a supper effective way to bring people into your funnel and up your conversion rate. Copy that converts sends the message that you have the solution to your customer's problem but can also send the message that you actually see them.

Taylor de la Fuente is an award-winning writer, champion for inclusive language and the owner of Lemon Tree Editorial and she is here to tell us how it is. As a website copywriter serving the wedding industry, Taylor writes authentic and inclusive web copy for wedding pros who want to sell their services while they sleep. Before starting Lemon Tree Editorial, she worked in journalism, SEO and marketing.

Taylor has a message that any business owner needs to hear… like… right now! So pull up a chair or snuggle in on the couch and check out this not to be missed episode of The Workshop Weekly Podcast.

• Her experience that lead her on the path of being the copywriter and website expert that she is today. 2:34
• The difference between regular content, copywriting, and conversion copywriting and why that matters. 3:57
• Converting online - using your words to help people take action. 5:41
• Sales funnels and where your website fits and how it will help build your business using this model. 8:59
• How to structure a great website homepage so that you are clearly inviting people to stay, look around, and buy. 12:31
• The importance of considering the "fold" and what to put there. 15:38
• Do's and don'ts for different pages of your website. 24:44
• Top mistakes people make on their about page and how you can avoid them. 30:59
• Being clear on your values on your website and how to be inclusive in your content and offer. 33:01
• Inclusive VS exclusive language and how it can effect your business. 41:39

My recommendation and my one piece of advice is treat your website like the number one sales and marketing tool that it is invest some time some money into it, and it will sell your services or your products for you.

Being inclusive in your website copy tells people that you see them and that you welcome and appreciate their business.

I love Taylors example of looking at your website like it is your home - warm and inviting. And like you home, your website should say something about YOU. People buy from people, not companies so being sure to personalize your website and include your story will build a relationship that will have your customers coming back and even sharing your business with the people they care about.

I know that it is uncomfortable to talk about yourself sometimes but, as Taylor says, your About page is one of the most important spaces on your website so show it some love and be sure to include a professional looking photo so everyone can attach your face to your business.

This was a great conversation and I hope you walk away from this episode motivated to give your own website a check up!

Website: www.lteditorial.com

Instagram: @lteditorial

Understand how users are experiencing your website with Hotjar!

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.

With Sara Alepin.

A room packed full of strangers invokes different feelings in the context of a pandemic. Networking in 2021 looks a little different now, doesn’t it? 

The idea of networking was triggering for some people even before COVID - bad experiences getting trapped in a conversation with someone you know isn’t your target audience, social anxiety, and even general awkwardness ring a bell? 

The constant pitching can really dampen the mood yet we are constantly being advised to pitch at every opportunity… and it is exhausting! Whatever happened to a “happy” happy hour?

Today’s guest is here to tell us that there is a better way. Sara Alepin is a master connector.

She’s so good at it, she turned it into a business when founding the District Bliss Community. District Bliss is a community of creatives and business owners who want to expand their networks quickly, build their businesses with ease, and just find their people! They host socials that take the “work” out of networking and workshops taught by leading experts to get you on the road to success without the stress!

Are you ready to talk networking? Let’s do it.

• How Sara's own experience with networking inspired her to break the current networking experience and rebuild it to be to be collaborative instead of competitive. 2:18
• Her theory on what networking will look like in 2021 and beyond and advice for making the most of the experience. 3:51
• How to have a positive networking experience online that feels like a casual happy hour. 5:51
• Things we can do to get out of our own heads and be truly present at networking events. 11:56
• How to navigate online events when you are craving the physical connection with somebody. 15:06
• Places to go to find online networking events to attend. 19:11
• Red flags to look out for when deciding on a networking event to attend virtually. 21:59
• What you can expect at an online networking events. 27:12
• Where you can find Sara’s specific networking events. 32:22

 So homework item one would be to grab that (free resource) so that you can be successful in your online and in person networking events. This is geared toward online but applicable to in person events. And then what I want you to do is I actually want you to reach out to Kelly and tell her what one of your favorite topics that she has covered is on this podcasts. And then also I would like you to tell her if you have someone that you would recommend that she interview. So I want you to reach out to her on Instagram and tell her that information. One, it is so lovely as someone who hosts something like a podcast and who gives so generously like you do Kelly, to actually know that people cared about something that that has so much value. So if you do that, if you show up in Kelly's DMS, you are going to stand out immediately as an amazing connection to her.

Repeat after me...You don’t need to be an extrovert to be an excellent networker. When you start treating every opportunity as a networking one and learn to listen and ask questions more than you pitch, you can really start to enjoy these opportunities and make valuable connections.

Being prepared is key and Sara gave us some great pointers that will ensure that you have a great networking experience. Leveraging your connections is key to succeeding in your business… and you can do it from the comfort of your own home!

Sara is changing the face of networking and I really like where it is going. She loves to find ways to make building a business easier — and more fun! Connecting people and curating a community of like-minded entrepreneurs who support one another… sound familiar?

She shared some fantastic tips with us and some resources including her own podcast, be sure to check them out in the show notes at KellyLawson.ca/059.

And thank you again so much for lending your earbuds to this episode. You’re the reason I do this. Bye for now.

Website: districtbliss.com

Instagram: @districtblissevents

Podcasts: The Wedding Dish Podcast and Laughing With Gingers

Places to find networking events: Eventbrite, Six Degrees Society, LinkedIn Events

So you bought a fancy camera or you're thinking about buying one because it's clear to you that there is no shortage of beautiful moments or things in your life that you'd like to capture beautifully, but the record scratches because all the dials and buttons and settings are standing between you and your life in stunning photos. Well, my friend I have just the fix the Ultimate Photography Starter Kit. This free resource includes a recommended equipment list, quick start checklist, and a beginner's guide to creating natural poses and candid moments to give you the confidence you need to dust off that fancy camera and start documenting your moments so they can last forever.

The Ultimate Photography Starter kit is completely free and It is everything you need to get started. So grab yours today at Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. That's Kellylawson.ca/starterkit. And I can't wait to see your framers in my scroll.

-

If you’re looking to elevate your business or brand photos using your smartphone or any other photo-taking device, I don’t want you to miss out on my most downloaded free resource.

The results people are getting from this guide are crazy, some say I should be charging actual money for it. But for now, I don't want to because I want everyone to get the beautiful photography results that they deserve. No more blurry, dark, dull, yellowish, shadow-y embarrassing photos for you! It’s so much easier to get a beautiful photo than you probably think. Simply visit kellylawson.ca/freeguide to download your free photography guide and start taking better photos for your business TODAY.

Click here for the transcribed version of this podcast.