The Proffitt Podcast

Unlock financial mastery and entrepreneurial empowerment with the guidance of Danielle Hayden, CEO of Kickstart Accounting, in our latest episode. We peel back the layers of budgeting bliss and financial finesse, inviting you to a candid discussion on the journey to monetary freedom. Danielle, a reformed CFO with a heart for coaching female entrepreneurs, shares her insights on the interplay between mindset and money, emphasizing the value of consistency and the liberating effect of financial transparency. It's an honest exploration of the financial discipline required to thrive in an online business and how embracing your numbers can forge the path to enduring success.

Ever felt overwhelmed with the nitty-gritty of bookkeeping or unsure when to make that crucial hire to bolster your business? We've got you covered with practical strategies for resource management and growth tactics that illuminate the road to delegating effectively. The conversation dives into the hiring process, from leaning on experts to engaging contractors and full-time employees, pinpointing the perfect moment each decision should unfold to protect and propel your venture. I open up about my own battle with financial shame, underlining the strength found in seeking help and the vital role it plays in cultivating a flourishing business.

As we wrap up, we leave you with wisdom on healthy spending habits and the significance of intentional investment in advertising and marketing. The narrative culminates with a gift from Kickstart Accounting—practical tools to guide you through tax deductions and intelligent hiring practices. This episode isn't just a lesson in numbers; it's an invitation to step confidently into mastering your business finances, joining a community where every question is welcomed and every financial step is celebrated.

Unlock the secrets to turning customer praise into your most powerful marketing tool. Imagine having an ever-growing vault of testimonials that effortlessly champions your work while you focus on what you do best. That's the reality I'll help you achieve in today's episode as we dissect strategic timing, the art of asking the right questions, and my four-step method for cultivating an enviable collection of endorsements. We're not just gathering testimonials; we're building a system that captures the essence of positive consumer experiences to give your potential customers the confidence they need to choose you.

Ever spotted a glowing comment about your service on social media and felt a rush of pride? Now, think about harnessing that energy across all your platforms—Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, to name a few. I'll walk you through recognizing these digital wins, turning casual praises into a curated arsenal of authentic social proof. 

You'll hear about my journey from missing these opportunities to actively collecting and interacting with my audience, making the most of every heartfelt review and comment. It's time to make your digital footprint work harder for you, and I'm here to show you how.

Then, we transform those testimonials into content that sells without selling. With our strategic deployment, you'll learn to anonymize and share feedback that resonates with your audience. We'll delve into the remarkable capabilities of Sinja, an AI-powered platform that distills testimonials into marketing gold by pinpointing common pain points and keywords. 

By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped to build your own 'wall of love,' showcasing the acclaim that sets you apart. So join us on this journey to amplify your word-of-mouth marketing and let satisfied customers do the talking.

"But how does SEO work? I've been trying to understand (for years!), and I still don't get it," said every frustrated creator who wants to see organic growth for their podcast. And I get it. I've been there and have firsthand exasperation when it comes to SEO.

This is why I wanted to bring on the expertise of e-commerce wizard Carrie Saunders. As she dissects the complexities of search engine optimization on her podcast "eCommerce Made Easy," Carrie joins us to share the essentials for grasping the SEO game and propelling your content to the top of search rankings. 

Together, we peel back the layers of crafting irresistible titles, the magic of well-worded descriptions, and the sheer power of transcripts. With tips that could elevate your podcast from hidden gem to center stage, this episode is a treasure chest for content creators.

Have you ever wondered how a simple change in your content strategy could result in a flood of new listeners? I share a surprising tale of an episode that did just that, emphasizing the unpredictable dance of audience engagement. 

We zoom out to explore the broader strokes of SEO, from using less competitive keywords to build your site's authority to the importance of ethical linking. For SEO novices and veterans alike, there's wisdom to nurturing online visibility and the virtues of patience and persistence in content creation.

Our conversation wraps up with actionable insights into ethical linking strategies and avoiding the pitfalls of spammy practices. As we navigate the SEO landscape, remember that every episode title, keyword, and link is a stepping stone to achieving your online vision. 

And for those just tuning in, subscribe or follow for a treasure trove of episodes that promise to guide you through the ever-shifting terrain of content creation and SEO mastery. Join us on this adventure; it's one you won't want to miss.

Have you ever felt the magnetic pull of a dream so strong that you couldn't ignore it? That's precisely what Molly experienced when she traded the certainty of corporate finance for the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. This week's episode takes you through her remarkable transformation, a tale that echoes with the voices of coaches she now leads, empowering women to strike that elusive work-life balance. 

Our conversation traverses the often bumpy road of career transitions, highlighting the valuable lessons hidden in the missteps along the way. From my own evolution as a content creator and mother of three to the essential support systems we all need when chasing dreams that defy convention, we uncover the nuances of building community and the joy that guides us. We also peel back the curtain on the startup phase of a business, swapping tales of humble beginnings and the serendipity of client-driven content evolution.

And if you've ever pondered the power of authenticity in health and wellness, this episode has treasures for you. Listen to how showing up as our true selves, devoid of pretense, fosters a deeper connection with those we aim to inspire. Dive into the strategies Molly and I use to inspire others and learn how reaching beyond our own communities can amplify our message and mission. If you're seeking a sign to take that leap into your own entrepreneurial adventure, listen to this episode.

This episode promises to be a beacon of encouragement for anyone needing a confidence boost, yearning to connect with their true calling, or just looking for a community that champions the real over the perfect. Tap into your potential and hit play on an episode that embodies the essence of evolution in both life and content creation. Don't forget to follow or subscribe for more inspirational conversations like this one!

"I can't believe this is happening." That was my first thought as I waited for today's guest to join me on Instagram Live. As a fledgling entrepreneur back in 2017, I learned the hard way that building a brand requires grit and tenacity. Fast forward to today, and my perseverance has paid rich dividends; one is the wisdom imparted by Marie Forleo, a trailblazer in the online business and marketing world. 

Together, we explore her treasure trove of insights, from the impactful content on MarieTV to the game-changing offerings of Time Genius and B-School, designed to amplify your business pursuits.

Have you ever felt like you're in an endless race against the clock, where time is a luxury you can't afford? Marie and I tackle this issue, diving into the necessity for a mindset upgrade to cope with the ever-increasing demands of modern life. 

She sheds light on the outdated practices that lead to burnout and offers fresh perspectives to realign our approach to productivity. It's not about the hours you put in but the strategic prioritization of tasks—identifying your 'big rocks' and learning to say no to distractions—that can truly propel your aspirations to reality.

We focus on the transformative concept of 'time genius'—a mindset that promotes joy and contentment by granting us autonomy over our hours. Hear how this approach has influenced my entrepreneurial journey and provided a roadmap for a fulfilling life that defies the stress of never-ending to-do lists. If you're ready for a shift that could redefine how you perceive and utilize time, joining us on this episode is a decision you won't regret.

Unlock the secrets to leveraging content for business triumph with our seven game-changing strategies. This episode is a goldmine for entrepreneurs and content creators looking to make a mark in the digital world. 

Let me guide you through the nuances of using content as your digital introduction, shaping how your audience perceives you from the get-go. We dissect the impact of a solid content-driven presence in building credibility and authority, which is crucial for both new faces and industry veterans. Get ready to step up your business game and forge deeper connections with your audience.

Strap in for a deep dive into the world of lead generation and sales funnels, where I break down the art of turning casual browsers into loyal customers. If you've ever wondered how to warm up those cold leads or introduce higher-value products without scaring your prospects away, this is the chapter for you. We'll discuss the strategy behind enticing offers and the importance of nurturing your most committed customers. This is about more than just making sales—it's about creating a community of 'star students' who believe in your brand as much as you do.

In our final segment, I share a personal tale that illustrates the magic of storytelling in content creation. This human touch sets apart the memorable from the mundane, something no AI can mimic. We also explore the critical role of feedback and analytics in honing your content to meet the changing tides of audience interest. To wrap things up, I highlight an exclusive resource for listeners eager to delve deeper into the world of content creation and digital business success. So tune in and take your first step towards writing your success story.

Ever find yourself inspired by those who've pivoted their lives to follow a true calling? Susie Moore's journey from tech dynamo to life coach and media sensation is nothing short of inspiring. She joins us to chat about the leap of faith into full-time side hustling, penning bestsellers, and her unique philosophy: "Let it be easy."

Our conversation is full of wisdom for those seeking to connect with their audience through the power of storytelling and authenticity. Susie's footprint in major media outlets shows how being true to yourself can lead to incredible opportunities.

Launching a podcast can feel like an uphill battle, but what if the secret to success is as uncomplicated as embracing the 'Let it be easy' mantra? Susie shares her own podcasting inception story, starting with the 90-day challenge that taught her the beauty of connecting with an audience through regular, authentic content.

From our collective content experience, we'll explore the power of consistency and how it can transform your creative endeavors. You'll be encouraged to adopt a mindset that values progress over perfection and recognize the joy in the content creation journey.

After you tune in, you won't be able to unsee the endless opportunities to amplify your message and grow your platform. Our conversation dives into the nitty-gritty of using media to your advantage, looking at how media appearances can shorten the sales cycle, the longevity of impactful content, and the excitement of living in an era where our message can reach far and wide.

Spoiler alert! We're wrapping up the episode by unveiling our new class, Overnight Rockstar. This episode is the boost you need to navigate the media landscape with the finesse of a seasoned publicist. Strap in because we're peeling back the curtain on the strategies that could elevate your podcast audience to new heights.

Let's do some podcast coaching in today's episode! From creating a palpable buzz 90 days out to dropping a captivating trailer that hooks your future fanbase, we're spilling the beans on everything you need to ignite your podcasting journey. 

Whether you're new to the scene or seeking to rekindle the spark in your established show, the wisdom shared here is your ticket to content and business triumph. We delve into the art of anticipation and the strategic play of early engagement that could make or break your podcast's success.

Ever wonder how to make your podcast the talk of the town? In this episode, I'm dishing out promotional tactics that will make your show's visibility soar. I'm talking crystal-clear communication tactics, tapping into personal networks, and harnessing the power of first impressions with early reviews. But wait, there's more!

We'll also navigate the balancing act of scheduling guest interviews amidst life's whirlwind of commitments and reveal the magic that happens when you step away from the script and let natural conversations lead the way.

Let's chat about keeping that content engine running without hitting burnout. I'm opening up about my content creation hiccups and laying out a game plan for staying consistent without the stress. We'll explore repurposing live content, engaging your team in the creative process, and reshaping your podcast format to match your strengths. 

Plus, I'll share how turning live Q&A sessions into podcast episodes can infuse your show with spontaneity and connection. So join me, and let's amplify your podcasting prowess together.

Prepare to revolutionize your podcasting game as I sit down with Joe Casabona, a wizard in the realm of podcast automation. In our thought-provoking conversation, we lift the veil on cutting-edge tools like Riverside and Make.com, exposing their potential to transform your content creation process. If you're a podcaster craving efficiency and innovation, this episode is your treasure map to streamlining your workflow and enhancing the quality of your work without sacrificing your sanity.

The soul of this episode lies in the quest for monetization—converting your podcasting passion into a veritable goldmine. Join us as we dissect the 'Smash Framework' for monetization, a strategy that goes beyond mere profit to forge trust and authority with your audience. Joe and I share our lessons learned from the trenches, offering actionable insights that you can apply to cultivate a loyal following and unlock the true financial potential of your podcast, regardless of its size.

As we wrap up our chat, we dive into the future of podcasting with AI tools that promise to redefine content creation. From using AI to craft listener avatars to automating guest bookings and follow-ups, we explore how embracing these innovations can free you up to focus on what you love most about podcasting. Prepare to leave with a toolkit brimming with resources to streamline your operations, and a renewed sense of excitement for the art of podcasting. Don't forget to subscribe for a continuous stream of strategies and stories from the ever-evolving world of content creation.

Are you wanting to start a podcast? Or maybe revamp one that's not creatively fulfilling? Today, we're diving deep into the art of content creation. Whether you're a budding podcaster, a blogger, a YouTuber, or mastering the craft of email newsletters, strategic planning is your golden ticket to success. 

In this episode, I'll introduce you to my signature PREP'M Method, the cornerstone of content creation encompassing planning, recording, editing, publishing, and marketing.

We'll journey back to the roots of my first podcast in 2018 and explore how the planning stage, which should account for a good 45% of your efforts, is critical yet often overlooked. Get ready to pick up some insider tips, like why starting with a $20 microphone might be enough and how you can make editing a breeze.

There is no need to go solo on this—interviewing guests offers rich content to explore. Plus, I'll share some of my favorite tools, like Riverside, Camtasia, and Hindenburg, to help you capture and finesse your episodes.

And when it comes to getting your content heard, let's crack the code of podcast marketing together. I also have a special offer for our listeners—a five-minute podcast boot camp and my "Proffitt Podcasting" course and group coaching program—to guide you through every step.

Don't forget, we love hearing from you! Please send in your audio or video questions, subscribe to the podcast, and join us as we build our podcasting community. Let's kick off this episode and turn your vision into a reality!

I invite you to take a memorable stroll down the memory lane of 2023 with me and then catapult ourselves into the thrills of what 2024 has in store! Remember the adrenaline rush at Podcast Movement Evolutions in Vegas? We connected with fantastic people and learned so much. Let's pause and honor the exceptional community members who sprinkled magic onto our year - you all are phenomenal!

Now, think forward. Can you imagine the staggering potential of AI tools that will continue to reshape our daily routines? And, while Instagram's Threads and X rebranding might not have hit the bullseye, the move toward video content creation did. I'm also thrilled to share my top five Armchair Umbrella network podcasts with you - the array of guests and topics is splendid. We're on a roller coaster ride, folks, and the landscape of technology and content creation is whipping by!

Brace yourselves for more exhilaration as we celebrate fantastic podcasting milestones within our community. From the spine-tingling entertainment of "Armchair Umbrella" to the warmth of "The Caregiver Cup Podcast," we've been blessed with abundant, joyful moments. 

A massive shout-out to our students from the Proffitt Podcasting program who have soared this year - your dedication and success inspires us all. As for 2024, I've some sensational plans with Proffitt Media. Buckle up, because we're about to hit the stratosphere of opportunities and growth!

Ready to organize your content creation in 2024 with efficiency and strategic precision? Promise yourself a productive year ahead as we navigate the essential aspects of planning your calendar, from setting your personal non-negotiables to aligning your content with your promotional strategy. More than just a New Year's resolution, this is about taking command of your content production in a structured and effective way.

Let's discuss successful launches and why time management is your best ally in this journey. I'm sharing my experiences with back-to-back launches and how to make room for what truly matters, whether white space in your calendar or personal events that can't be compromised. Say NO to things that don't serve your content strategy, and learn how to use a content calendar effectively. Dive deep into previous episodes for a more comprehensive understanding of time management and strategic content planning.

Finally, let's talk about the world of Asana, your new best friend for content calendar and accountability. With step-by-step techniques and a peek into the Google Sheets content calendar, I'll guide you through using Asana to stay on track with your content creation. Remember, the secret to confidence and productivity lies in a strategic plan that aligns your content with your business goals. So, whether you're a new listener or a seasoned fan, you're welcome in our community of content creators. It's time to get your plan and content game strong for 2024! Let's get planning, shall we?

Strap yourselves in for a candid conversation with the creative geniuses, Zafira Rajan and Kirstie Fanton, the brilliant minds behind the "Business After Baby" podcast. We dive deep into their journey of juggling motherhood and entrepreneurship and how this unique experience sparked their decision to launch a limited series podcast. 

From the project's inception to the creation of the title, cover art and format, we're taking you backstage to embrace the nitty-gritty of podcast creation, the highs and lows that make it worthwhile.

Ever wondered how personal stories can resonate powerfully with a public audience? Co-hosts Zafira and Kirsty offer a glimpse into their experiences of balancing vulnerability with boundary-setting in their podcasting journey. 

Their chemistry and mutual trust have fostered deep, meaningful conversations that have struck a chord with their listeners. In the process, they've built a community within their podcast, ingeniously integrating audience questions into their episodes, leading to an unforeseen success story.

But this episode is more than just about their podcasting journey. It's a celebration of the creative collaboration that led to a project with real impact. The overwhelmingly positive response from their listeners stands as a testament to their passion and commitment. 

As we wind up, our dynamic duo indulges us with some quick-fire responses and pearls of wisdom for the budding podcasters out there. Prepare for a whirlwind episode packed with practical insights, candid reflections, and inspiring tales. You wouldn't want to miss this!

Have you ever wondered about the darker side of podcasting? Well, brace yourself for an eye-opening journey as I pull back the curtain on the six most prevalent scams playing out in this industry. 

From paying for downloads to dubious promotion predators, unethical practices not only risk your reputation but can also create lasting damage with potential advertisers. My personal run-ins with these pitfalls have taught me valuable lessons I'm eager to share.

It's a wild world out there, and my mission is to arm you with the knowledge needed to navigate it successfully. Learn how to identify these scams and, more importantly, protect yourself from them. 

Whether it's the importance of exhaustive research, the power of a supportive community, or the wisdom in trusting your instincts, we'll demystify it all. Be especially wary of shady podcast networks - they might seem appealing on the surface, but there's more than meets the eye. Four core tips will fortify your defenses against falling prey to these scams.

Lastly, no one should be deterred from podcasting because of a few bad apples. I'll share my experiences and guide you on how to forge ahead and create content confidently while steering clear of scams. The fine print isn't just small talk; it's crucial when considering services or products, just like checking customer testimonials before you buy that online program. 

Harness this knowledge and create content that impacts you positively and helps you grow organically. Join me in this insightful episode that promises to save you time, money, and unnecessary stress in your podcasting journey.

What if you could elevate your podcast production professionally...without breaking the bank? This is exactly what we explored in today's conversation with our guest, award-winning singer, and sought-after voiceover artist Cami Galles, who is also the CEO of 3V Productions. 

With a unique blend of experience from her time as an advertising executive at Google and AOL, Cami shares some incredible, practical insights on taking your podcast to the next level.

Cami pulls back the curtain on finding a quiet space to record, the importance of understanding the acoustics, and even reveals how a simple microphone plugging into your phone can dramatically improve your sound quality. 

With the power of free editing software like GarageBand, we discuss how you can cut off the tails, pops, and dead spaces in a podcast, ensuring a smooth and seamless listening experience. Plus, she shares the importance of audio markers and why a good mic check is non-negotiable. 

Last but not least, we dive into the concept of audio fatigue and how diversifying voices can help keep your audience engaged. Cami explains how you can create a distinctive branded identity in your podcast intro and outro and the importance of selecting a voice that's contextually relevant to your podcast. 

As a cherry on top, we also explore the role of visual elements in podcasting and the boundless possibilities of creating sizzle reels for businesses. To wrap things up, Cami leaves us with her golden advice - done is better than perfect. Whether you're an aspiring podcaster or a seasoned pro, this episode is a treasure trove of practical tips and insights. Don't miss out!

Have you ever wondered how creators and influencers get just the right angle of their face or the background image for their brand? Yup, today we're talking about brand photoshoots and digging into all the details. 

Join me as I share the secrets of finding that perfect match photographer. From my personal journey with five photoshoots since 2018, including two taken by my mom and a friend, we'll unravel the importance of content images and why you don't need to break the bank for expensive equipment to get stunning shots.

Loaded with tips and anecdotes, this episode dives into the nitty-gritty of planning and preparing for a photo shoot. We tackle everything from deciding the number of pictures you'd need for your brand or website revamp to selecting outfits and props that bring your vision to life. 

Expertise doesn't have to be expensive; the right photographer is out there waiting to capture your brand's essence. Plus, we'll discuss how to perfectly time your shoot around your life and work.

My exceptional experience with Camille, my photographer, is a testament to the fact that it's not just about the shoot but the relationships and memories we build along the way. 

As I recap my recent session through all the behind-the-scenes stories, we'll discuss how to create a shot list, decide on the types of pictures you need, and the significance of good music during a shoot. Tune in to celebrate the beautiful journey of content photo shoots, and learn how to make your next one a resounding success!

After listening to today's episode, you'll say, "Wow!" Today's remarkable guest, Bevin, turned adversity into opportunity and embarked on an empowering entrepreneurship journey. From being laid off in 2019 to setting and smashing revenue goals, Bevin's story inspires you to tackle your challenges. 

We dive into her techniques and strategies that have helped numerous small businesses and entrepreneurs scale their operations, focusing on the power of content creation and strategic launches.

Then, we take on manifestos. Have you ever wondered about having a mission statement, crafting a manifesto, or considering the impact of surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals? Bevin enlightens us on these aspects, drawing from her rich personal experiences. 

We also navigate the nuanced realm of content creation, discussing the balance between organic conversation and strategic planning. Bevin's emphasis on setting boundaries when sharing personal experiences is an essential marker for content creators. 

As we wind up our chat, Bevin divulges the significance of sharing human stories and their power to foster connections. We explore the transformative potential of microactions and how they can build momentum towards achieving your goals. 

Beyond discussing business strategy and growth, this interaction shines a spotlight on personal growth, resilience, and the audacious courage required to pursue your dreams. Bevin's story embodies the power of taking action and believing in your potential. Are you ready to take the DAMN chance with us?

Ever wondered what goes into producing a live event? Strap in as I take you on a whirlwind journey of my time as an On-the-Road Event Producer. From planning to prepping to managing live, you'll get the full picture of what it takes to put on a show. Plus, I'll share some priceless lessons learned from the three-day event I produced for my dear friend, Heather Sager.

The heart of any event, whether live or virtual, is its content. And managing time is critical when it comes to creating content that hits home. I'll let you in on how setting time limits ensures your content is just right, not too long, not too short. 

Plus, you'll discover how important it is for the audience to fully receive the message you're sending out. But wait till you hear about how our Airbnb turned out to be the perfect solution for Heather's virtual event.

But as the saying goes, 'Less is more.' This couldn't be truer when it comes to event planning. I'll reveal how simplicity can truly maximize impact. Take a peek into my experiences, the trials, tribulations, and triumphs, and how, with a dash of creativity, you can achieve more with less. 

So, whether you're an event planner, a content creator, or looking to host an event, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights you simply can't miss! Tune in and take your event management skills to the next level.

Ready to unlock the secrets of making it big in the creator economy? Join us as we unpack the journey of Justin Moore, a sponsorship coach and founder of Creator Wizard. 

Graced with the wisdom of a seasoned professional, we'll explore Justin's eight-year experience in the creative field, where he's made a whopping $4 million working with brands. We'll cover everything from finding your niche to navigating sponsorships and even turning failures into stepping stones.

As we dive into the world of content creation, we'll shed light on the counterintuitive truth that choosing a specific niche can actually broaden your horizons. Hear Justin's story of transitioning from a newbie creator to earning a handsome compensation from a skincare brand for his wife's YouTube channel. Discover how you, too, can effectively monetize your influence and engage with your audience in a meaningful way. 

Finally, we'll open the doors to a golden future by setting a clear vision for your creative journey. Reflecting on his own experiences, Justin will share how investing in a mastermind completely revolutionized his view of his business, prompting him to aim for the stars. 

We'll also jump into strategies for advocating for yourself, forming brand partnerships, and setting the right price for your worth. So, sit back, tune in, and allow us to guide you on this exciting path to unlocking the full potential of your creativity.