Web Design MBA

In this episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, we discuss a common problem faced by beginner web designers: establishing a portfolio without prior client work. If you're starting out and find yourself stuck in the portfolio conundrum, this episode provides actionable steps to build a credible portfolio and boost your web design business.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:29 The Portfolio Dilemma for Beginners

03:29 Working for Free: Building Your Initial Portfolio

06:08 Creating Real Fake Sites

10:19 Networking in High Trust Environments

12:31 Honesty and Confidence in Your Skills

13:24 Being Helpful in Facebook Groups

14:58 Pro Tips: Case Studies and Portfolio Insights

17:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Web Design MBA podcast, focus specifically on creating an effective onboarding process. We explore how a solid onboarding system can significantly improve client satisfaction, build trust, and streamline the project management process. If you this right, it should lead to more consistent referrals, too! 

00:00 Welcome to the Web Design MBA Podcast
00:47 Engaging with Audience Questions
01:28 The Importance of Onboarding in Web Design
01:57 Psychology and Marketing in Onboarding
04:11 Effective Onboarding Tactics
06:56 Creating a Repeatable Process
10:04 Basic Elements of Onboarding
19:17 Practical Steps to Implement Onboarding
21:01 Conclusion and Next Steps

In the first episode of the Web Design MBA Podcast, I introduce the rebranded podcast and talk about what kind of content web designers should create to effectively market their services. Topics include case studies, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and continued success pieces, along with examples and practical advice on how to leverage these content types.

00:00 Welcome to the Web Design MBA Podcast
00:57 Exciting Announcements and New Offerings
01:37 YouTube Housekeeping and Engagement Tips
03:48 Content Creation for Web Designers
10:51 The Power of Case Studies
14:42 Answering Frequently Asked Questions
19:39 Creating Continued Success Pieces
23:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, I’m back after a short break and wanted to thank you all for being so patient. I’ve got some exciting updates to share, including the rebranding of the podcast from ‘Subscription Web Design’ to ‘Web Design MBA.’ Moving forward, I’ll be diving into topics like subscription models, scaling your agency, and systems management. I’m also working on a new website and brand to match this fresh direction, with a big focus on delivering practical, real-world advice. I’m aiming to fully relaunch by the first Thursday in November!
00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

00:42 Rebranding Announcement

01:08 Focus Areas: Subscriptions, Scaling, and Systems

02:21 New Podcast Name: Web Design MBA

02:52 Current Progress and Future Plans

03:42 Staying Relevant and In the Trenches

05:25 Upcoming Launch and How to Stay Connected

06:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, we announce significant changes coming to the Subscription Web Design podcast and business. We're transitioning into a reimagined brand called 'the WebMBA' to better help web designers apply business principles to their work. Key updates include shifting from group to one-on-one coaching, introducing a $4.99/month community membership through Basecamp, and expanding our course offerings. Join us as we make these exciting pivots, and prepare for the future of web design with a solid business foundation. Stay tuned for our return after a brief hiatus for rebranding!

00:00 Introduction and Special Announcement
00:17 Reflecting on the Journey So Far
01:01 Reimagining the Podcast and Business
01:48 Expanding Beyond Subscription Web Design
08:07 Introducing the WebMBA
10:56 Changes to Mentorship and Coaching
15:36 Community and Basecamp Access
19:21 Focus on Courses and Future Plans
24:00 Conclusion and Next Steps

Traditional website pricing is dead. That's a bold claim, but I don't see how you could beat the advantages of Subscription Web Design in any traditional model. Here are my thoughts!

In this episode, discover a remarkably simple yet powerful marketing framework inspired by the book 'Lean Marketing.' Steve, an avid reader and marketing expert, introduces the 'What, When, Who' strategy—an easy-to-follow method to streamline your marketing efforts for consistent, repeatable results. Learn how to organize and manage your marketing activities with just three columns on a spreadsheet or piece of paper. This user-friendly approach is perfect for solo entrepreneurs and small businesses starting out and looking to delegate tasks as they grow. Implement this straightforward system and watch your marketing efforts flourish over time.

00:00 Introduction to a Simple Marketing Strategy
00:22 The Power of Reading and Lean Marketing
01:38 Introducing the What, When, Who Framework
02:29 Implementing the Framework in Your Business
04:31 Adapting and Delegating Tasks
05:43 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this video, discover why shifting from merely offering website design to providing comprehensive business solutions can transform your web design business. Learn how focusing on solving clients' problems, embracing subscription-based marketing services, and creating compelling sales pitches can lead to increased client satisfaction and business growth. We discuss practical strategies, such as defining your service menu or using intentionally vague retainers, and the importance of separating marketing services from web design agreements. Tune in to find out how to grow your impact and income by evolving beyond traditional web design.

00:00 Introduction: Beyond Just Website Design
00:13 The Shift to Problem-Solving Solutions
02:14 Subscription-Based Marketing Services
02:26 Choosing the Right Services for Your Clients
03:23 Building a Team and Outsourcing
04:16 Getting Started: Frameworks and Retainers
04:22 Defining Your Service Menu
05:59 Intentionally Vague Retainers
07:16 Sales Pitches for Different Approaches
08:08 Pricing and Invoicing Tips
09:46 Conclusion: Growing Your Business and Impact

In this episode of the Subscription Web Design Podcast, we address the growing concerns among web designers about the impact of AI on their jobs and industry. We reflect on the historical pace of technological advancement and emphasize the importance of adapting to AI-driven tools to stay competitive. While acknowledging AI's rapid evolution, we explore its role in making businesses more efficient and the potential for creative new business models. By focusing on innovative and advanced web solutions, designers can safeguard their careers in the near future. Tune in to learn how to embrace AI as a powerful ally rather than a threat.

00:00 Introduction: Is AI Taking Over Web Design?
00:17 The Impact of AI on Technology and Innovation
01:26 Adapting to AI: No Do-Overs
02:53 The Future of Web Design in the Age of AI
03:43 AI as a Tool for Web Designers
05:44 Staying Ahead: Using AI to Your Advantage
07:29 Creative Business Models and AI
08:06 Conclusion: Planning for the Future

In this episode of the Subscription Web Design Podcast, we have a deep and engaging conversation with Stephanie Hudson, co-founder of FocusWP, and explore the world of white label services. Discover how white labeling can benefit agency owners and freelancers by freeing up time and enhancing business offerings. Learn from Stephanie's unique approach to subscription web design through 'website leasing.' Additionally, we discuss subscription-based design models, with insights from DesignJoy's high-cost, low-interaction formula, and the evolving impact of AI on web development. Tune in for practical advice and innovative strategies to help you stay ahead in the dynamic landscape of web design and development.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:41 Defining White Label Services

01:28 Focus WP: Who We Serve

02:46 Understanding White Label Work

03:51 Challenges and Benefits of White Labeling

06:09 Business Principles for Web Designers

09:21 Starting Focus WP: The Origin Story

12:46 Expanding Services and Team Dynamics

17:20 The Importance of Delegation

35:46 Becoming a White Label Partner

51:00 Generalist Budget Version

51:45 Marketing and Niche Websites

53:08 White Label Relationships

53:37 Rebranding and Business Structure

55:38 Subscription vs. Lease Model

56:10 Recurring Revenue Strategies

01:19:58 AI and the Future of Web Design

01:28:34 FocusWP Services and Conclusion

Bonus Link: https://focuswp.co/swd2024/