47 LIFE LESSONS I HAVE LEARNED – BIRTHDAY EDITION

47 THINGS LIFE LESSONS I HAVE LEARNED – BIRTHDAY EDITION

It’s my birthday this month. Let’s be honest: Once you hit 16, every other birthday is meh! 

 

In honor of my 47 times around the sun, I thought I’d share 47 life lessons I’ve learned in this journey of life. Alright, let’s do this!

 

  1. I’ve learned there’s no “easy button” in business or life. If it’s something worth getting, you have to work hard.

 

  1. Being a mom is the hardest, but most rewarding, thing I’ve ever done.

 

  1. I can count my true friends on one hand. These are the people I trust, I can count on, and who will never give up on me. 

 

  1. The world is freakin’ beautiful. Go see it! Adventure.

 

  1. Never ever take for granted your blessings. Life can change just like that.

 

  1. It’s all about perspective.

 

  1. Sometimes it just feels good to cry.

 

  1. Get good at failing. 

 

  1. You aren’t going to die and go to heaven and say I wish “I would’ve worked more.”

 

  1. Laughter really is the best medicine.

 

  1. Happiness is not a place; rather, it’s a state of mind.

 

  1. Be kind to everyone you come in contact with.

 

  1. Remember to check on your strong friends.

 

  1. Don’t get offended. It’s a waste of energy.

 

  1. One of the best ways to show respect is to be on time.

 

  1. Tell the truth.

 

  1. Don’t forget to floss. 

 

  1. Don’t judge others.

 

  1. Diet Coke and chocolate can fix almost anything.

 

  1. Move your body. You’ll feel so much better.

 

  1. Get ready for the day. When you look good, you feel good, and you act good! 

 

  1. Say your prayers.

 

  1. Say “I love you” often!

 

  1. Spend your time nurturing your good relationships instead of always trying to fix your bad ones. 

 

  1. Try new things.

 

  1. Take lots of pictures.

 

  1. You can do anything you want to do.

 

  1. Stop caring what everyone thinks! Be you!

 

  1. Dance and sing even if you don’t know the words.

 

  1. I can’t parallel park, and I’m okay with that. I’ve given up. 

 

  1. Laugh at your own jokes — I do! 

 

  1. Surround yourself with people who make you want to be a better person.

 

  1. You suffer when you think of only yourself. Serve others. 

 

  1. Find a friend who can make you laugh so hard you pee your pants!

 

  1. Ask people to tell you their stories.

 

  1. Be a builder of people, and compliment people often.

 

  1. Change is inevitable — embrace it!

 

  1. Oysters are gross.

 

  1. Birds are freaky.

 

  1. Get up early.

 

  1. Knowledge is power! Take every opportunity you can to learn.

 

  1. Drink more water.

 

  1. You can’t BS a BSer.

 

  1. Just because you can manipulate someone, it doesn’t mean you should.

 

  1. Nothing good ever comes from drugs and alcohol.

 

  1. Just go to bed. It will be better in the morning.

 

  1. YOLO. You only live once. Have fun! 

 

There you have it! These are 47 life lessons I’ve learned so far. Here’s to another year of learning!

CRYSTAL HAITSMA THE PARENTING COACH

CRYSTAL HAITSMA THE PARENTING COACH

In this week’s episode of the Redefine Business Podcast, Brittni welcomes Crystal Haitsma, a multi-faceted entrepreneur known for her unique approach to business and parenting. Crystal’s journey from a stay-at-home mom to a renowned parenting coach is a testament to the power of intuitive business practices and the importance of aligning professional goals with personal values.

 

CRYSTAL’S JOURNEY INTO BUSINESS

Crystal’s entry into the business world was unconventional. Initially, she was a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom with no business aspirations. However, her quest for a master’s program in therapy led her to discover life coaching. This unexpected shift ignited her passion for coaching and subsequently, the inception of her business. Crystal plunged into learning, consuming vast amounts of entrepreneurial content, and quickly transitioned from a novice to a proficient coach.

 

THE SHIFT TO PARENTING COACHING

While Crystal began coaching broadly on motherhood and some business topics, she felt a persistent pull towards focusing on parenting. Her own experiences with parenting challenges, particularly with neurodiverse children, fueled this passion. Over time, as she resolved many of her parenting struggles and developed a more profound connection with her children, she embraced parenting coaching wholeheartedly. Crystal’s approach emphasizes connection and attachment, advocating for shame-free parenting over traditional coercive methods.

 

BUILDING A BUSINESS ON INTUITION

Crystal’s business philosophy revolves around intuitive business building, where decisions are guided by inner knowing rather than external pressures. This approach allowed her to diversify her services, offering women’s retreats, hypnotherapy, and various coaching services. For Crystal, the key to fulfillment in business lies in pursuing what feels right and energizing, rather than adhering to conventional business norms.

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF PERSONAL ALIGNMENT

Throughout the episode, both Brittni and Crystal stress the importance of aligning business goals with personal values. Crystal shares her decision to work fewer hours to prioritize homeschooling and spending quality time with her children. This conscious choice reflects her belief that success isn’t solely defined by financial gain but by achieving a balanced and fulfilling life.

 

TRUSTING YOURSELF IN BUSINESS

Crystal and Brittni discuss the common entrepreneurial pitfall of following others’ paths instead of trusting one’s intuition. Crystal’s success story underscores the value of self-trust and the courage to deviate from traditional business advice. She encourages entrepreneurs to listen to their inner voice, prioritize their well-being, and take aligned actions that resonate with their true desires.

 

A LIFE OF ADVENTURE AND BALANCE

Crystal’s life is a blend of adventure and balance. She shares her experience of traveling the world with her family for a school year, a long-held dream that she realized by making deliberate choices about her business priorities. This adventure, although it resulted in lower income, was immensely rewarding and reinforced her belief in a life well-lived over a life merely well-paid.

 

REDEFINING SUCCESS

Crystal Haitsma’s story is a powerful reminder that success in business and life is deeply personal and unique to each individual. Her emphasis on intuitive decision-making, personal alignment, and the courage to pursue what truly matters offers invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs seeking a fulfilling and balanced life. This engaging interview provides a refreshing perspective on redefining business success beyond conventional metrics.

EPISODE FREEBIE

Help your kids with emotions, download a custom feelings wheel HERE.

 

CONNECT WITH CRYSTAL

 

Instagram

Facebook

Visit her website

 

RESOURCES:

The Meeting Place Membership
Rock The Reels
1:1 Coaching
Free Client Welcome Guide
Additional Trainings and Resources

 

CONNECT WITH BRITTNI

 

Follow me on the Gram – @brittni.schroeder
Join my Facebook Group 
Visit my website
Subscribe to my Youtube

WHEN AND HOW TO PIVOT IN YOUR BUSINESS

WHEN AND HOW TO PIVOT IN YOUR BUSINESS

I recently went to lunch with a friend. When we were trying to decide on a place, she recommended Olive Garden. I chuckled and commented that I hadn’t been to an Olive Garden in years. When we walked into the restaurant, I was immediately taken back in time. I hadn’t been to an Olive Garden in probably 10 years, and it hadn’t changed a bit.

 

I’ve been noticing lately that several chain restaurants that I frequented when I was younger have recently gone into bankruptcy or gone out of business. After my visit to the Olive Garden, it doesn’t surprise me that so many of these establishments are struggling.

 

Did you know the average lifespan of a small business is 8½ years? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 20% of small businesses fail within their first year. The failure rate increases to 30% by the end of the second year, 50% by the fifth year, and 70% by the tenth year.

 

Why is this?

 

The ability to pivot, to shift direction swiftly and strategically when circumstances demand it, isn’t just a great characteristic — it’s also essential for survival and success.

 

EMBRACING CHANGE

 

In business, change is inevitable. Market trends fluctuate, client’s needs evolve, and unexpected challenges arise. You have to be able to switch things up, fail, and constantly try new things. If you get stuck in stagnation, it’s a recipe for failure. This is where the concept of pivoting comes into play.

 

Pivoting involves recognizing when the current strategy or direction is no longer working and making a deliberate shift to trying something new. It requires a willingness to let go of what may have worked in the past, adapt to new information, and embrace uncertainty. Rather than viewing change as scary, successful businesses see it as an opportunity for growth and opportunity.

 

IMPORTANCE OF PIVOTING IN BUSINESS

Staying Relevant: Industries are always changing. This can be caused by technology, consumer behaviors, or maybe even your competition. Businesses that fail to adapt risk becoming irrelevant. Pivoting allows businesses to stay ahead of the curve, ensuring their products or services remain relevant.

 

Seizing Opportunities: Pivoting opens doors to new opportunities that may not have been obvious before. By being flexible and open-minded, businesses can stay on top of emerging trends, untapped markets, or innovative business models. Seizing these opportunities can lead to accelerated growth and making more money.

 

Adapting to Customer Needs: Customer preferences and expectations are constantly changing. Pivoting allows businesses to adapt to shifting customer needs and preferences, ensuring their products or services remain aligned with market demand. By listening to customer feedback and watching behaviors, you’ll know what the industry’s needs are. This is how you build strong relationships and customer loyalty.

 

STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE PIVOTING

  1. Monitor Market Trends: Do your research, and understand your market. If you notice your industry is getting saturated with a certain product or service, try to discover where there are untapped needs that aren’t being met.
  2. Be Open-Minded. Be willing to try something new, even if you’re unfamiliar with it. Being a business owner is a learning experience, and if you aren’t learning every day, you aren’t trying.
  3. Seek Feedback: Actively seek feedback from customers, your team, and your colleagues. Listen attentively to their insights and suggestions. Use feedback to inform your decision-making process.
  4. Embrace Failure: Recognize that failure is an inevitable part of the innovation process. Encourage a mindset of resilience and learning from setbacks. Use failures as opportunities to iterate, refine, and pivot toward more successful outcomes.
  5. Stay True to Your Vision and Values: While pivoting may involve changes in strategy or tactics, it’s essential to stay true to your core values and long-term vision. Ensure that any pivots align with your overarching mission and strategic objectives.

In today’s unpredictable business environment, the ability to pivot is golden. By embracing change, seizing opportunities, and being willing to try new things, you’ll grow as a business owner. Whether you’re adapting to shifting market trends, customer needs, or unforeseen challenges, effective pivoting enables your business to stay relevant, seize opportunities, and thrive.

 

Ask yourself: Is it time to pivot?

ENTREPRENEUR JOURNEY WITH KELLI FRANCE

ENTREPRENEUR JOURNEY WITH KELLI FRANCE

Today, I have the pleasure of introducing you to a dear friend and an incredible marketer, Kelli France. We’ve known each other for about 15 years, and our journey began in the photography industry. Though I haven’t been active in photography for six years, our paths have intertwined in remarkable ways. In this episode, you will hear about Kelli’s remarkable entrepreneur journey and how she has found success in her business.

 

ABOUT KELLI

Kelli, who is always on brand, brings a vibrant pink explosion wherever she goes. She’s not only an amazing marketer but also a dedicated mom of four. Her kids, with their spicy and unique personalities, keep her life exciting. With only half of them at home now, she’s experiencing a new kind of craziness.

 

Kelli is a mindset and business coach for mompreneurs, a role she stepped into after a long career as a serial entrepreneur. Her journey started in photography, where she mentored photographers and even launched a photography school and magazine. Eventually, she transitioned into the direct sales industry, where she thrives today. Recently, Kelli launched a community for mompreneurs to combat the loneliness of entrepreneurship and wrote a book titled “One Goal for 100 Days”, which she completed in just 100 days to demonstrate the power of consistency and determination.

 

Kelli’s journey is a testament to the spirit of entrepreneurship. She’s an Enneagram 7, always eager to try new things and explore new ventures. This willingness to dabble has led her to many successful endeavors, including retreats and workshops in the photography industry, where she excelled in marketing and event planning.

 

PIVOTING TOWARDS SUCCESS

One of the key elements of Kelli’s success is her ability to pivot and adapt. Like many entrepreneurs, she started from humble beginnings. Growing up with a single mom in a trailer court and later grappling with six-figure student loans, Kelli’s determination to provide for her family has been a driving force. She recalls a moment of financial struggle when she had only $16 to buy groceries for her children. That experience became a turning point, propelling her to dive into different business ventures.

 

ENJOYING THE JOURNEY AS AN ENTPREPRENEUR 

Kelli’s entrepreneur journey underscores the importance of enjoying the process. Fun is a core value for her, and she firmly believes that if you’re not having fun, you’re not doing it right. This philosophy has guided her through various pivots in her career. For example, last year, she and her daughter started a style Instagram account. Despite their excitement, they quickly realized it wasn’t their passion and decided to move on. Kelli sees failures not as setbacks but as feedback and opportunities to learn and grow.

 

MINDSET IS EVERYTHING

Entrepreneurship is not without its challenges. Statistics show that about 20% of small businesses fail in their first year, 30% in the second year, and 50% by year five. By eight years, around 70% of businesses have failed. Kelli emphasizes the importance of mindset in navigating these challenges. Staying motivated and resilient is crucial, as is the ability to pivot and try new things when necessary.

 

One of Kelli’s mantras is “fail it till you nail it.” She believes that if you’re not failing, you’re not trying. This mindset helps entrepreneurs overcome perfectionism and the fear of failure. Kelli often shares an analogy to illustrate this: when you’re in a plateau, it’s like riding a bike on even ground. You can coast for a while, but eventually, you need to start pedaling again to regain momentum. Similarly, in business, progress comes from continuous effort and movement, even if you don’t have all the answers right away.

 

Kelli’s experience as a dreamer and analytical thinker drives her to constantly envision new ventures and calculate their potential. However, she acknowledges that reality often falls short of expectations, which can be deflating. Over time, though, she has learned to embrace failure as part of the journey and to persist despite setbacks.

 

MAIN TAKEAWAYS

Kelli’s entrepreneur journey is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is a long game. Building a brand and achieving success takes time, effort, and resilience. It’s important to stay grounded, keep learning, and be open to change. Sharing our failures and challenges keeps us connected and grounded, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.

 

In conclusion, Kelli France’s journey from humble beginnings to successful entrepreneurship is an inspiring testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a positive mindset. Her ability to pivot, embrace failure, and maintain a sense of fun and purpose in her work offers valuable lessons for all entrepreneurs. As we navigate our own business journeys, let’s remember Kelli’s advice: keep pedaling, embrace the process, and enjoy the ride.

 

CONNECT WITH KELLI

You can connect with Kelli on Instagram and on her website.

 

EPISODE FREEBIE

Get the link to Kelli’s best mindset & biz books HERE 

 

Resources:

The Meeting Place Membership
Rock The Reels
1:1 Coaching
Free Client Welcome Guide
Additional Trainings and Resources


Connect with Brittni:

Follow me on the Gram – @brittni.schroeder
Join my Facebook Group 
Visit my website
Subscribe to my Youtube

10 THINGS I AUTOMATE IN MY BUSINESS

10 THINGS I AUTOMATE IN MY BUSINESS

When you run a business, time is precious. Every minute spent on repetitive tasks is a minute taken away from growing your business. That’s why automation has become a must when you are a business owner. Aside from the obvious, time-saving, automations also help with efficiency and it lets you focus on what truly matters. In this podcast, I’ll share with you ten tasks that I’ve successfully automated in my own business, from communication and scheduling to social media content and payments.

 

COMMUNICATION WITH MY VA USING AIRTABLE

Effective communication is a crucial part  of any successful business, especially when working with a virtual assistant (VA). Instead of drowning in endless email chains and messages, I communicate using Airtable. This customizable database allows my VA and myself to track tasks, share updates, and collaborate, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. For example, when I upload a podcast or blog post I update the status to ready to schedule and it sends her an email letting her know. 

 

Onboarding Email Clients:

First impressions are so important, especially when welcoming new clients onboard. Rather than resending the same onboarding emails, I’ve automated this process using personalized email sequences. I use Flodesk to set up a workflow. This is triggered when someone makes the first payment. The emails that are included are my intake form, how to schedule, and other resources that are available. I also offboard them in this same series too. This ensures  a consistent experience.

 

Scheduling Clients with Acuity:

Gone are the days of endless back-and-forth emails trying to find a suitable meeting time. Thanks to Acuity Scheduling, I’ve simplified the appointment booking process for both myself and my clients. With synced calendars and automated reminders, scheduling appointments has never been easier.

 

EMAIL COMMUNICATION WITH PODCAST GUESTS AND CLIENTS WITH ACUITY

Acuity doesn’t just help with scheduling; it also streamlines email communication with podcast guests and clients. Automated reminders and follow-ups ensure that all parties are well-informed and prepared for upcoming interviews or meetings. For example, I have set up an email that is sent out that includes a intake form asking for their bio, headshot, and other important information. They also get reminders 24 hours before and one hour before.


Chatbots Using Manychats:

This is an automation I recently started using, and to be honest I know I am not maximizing the features. Manychats is chatbots that help with instant communication to engage with my audience. With Manychat, I’ve created customizable bots that interact with comments and DMs on Instagram by answering questions, getting leads, and facilitate sales inquiries

 

Pinterest Pins Using Pinterest’s Scheduling Tool:

Pinterest is a powerhouse for driving traffic, but managing pins manually can be time-consuming. That’s why I’ve automated the process using Pinterest’s scheduling tool. By pre-scheduling pins across boards and time slots, I can maintain a consistent presence without constant monitoring.

 

Facebook Posts Using Facebook Groups’ Scheduling Feature:

Scheduling posts in Facebook Groups is a game-changer for community engagement. With Facebook’s scheduling feature, I can plan and queue up posts in advance, ensuring a steady stream of content and keeping the group active and thriving.

 

Scheduling Blogs and Podcasts on WordPress:

Consistent publishing schedules are important for blogs and podcasts. With WordPress’s scheduling feature, I can plan and publish content in advance, ensuring that new posts and episodes go live automatically without having to manually do it. This is great when you love to batch your content.


Accepting Payments Using Kajabi:

A reliable payment processing system is essential for any business. With Kajabi, I can automate the process of accepting payments from clients and customers, simplifying checkout and recurring billing.

 

Posting Podcasts to Multiple Platforms Using Libsyn:

Expanding the reach of my podcast is vital for growing my audience. With Libsyn, I can automate the distribution process by uploading episodes to multiple platforms, including YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more, reaching a wider audience and maximizing impact.

 

Automation is a powerful tool for streamlining business operations and freeing up valuable time for innovation and growth. By embracing automation tools and strategies, you can optimize your business processes, increase efficiency, and ultimately achieve greater success.

If you are ready to automate your business then send me a message and let’s jump on a consult.

If you found this podcast helpful I would love it if you left me a 5 Star Review and subscribe to my podcast.

 

 

Resources

The Meeting Place Membership
Rock The Reels
1:1 Coaching
Free Client Welcome Guide
Additional Trainings and Resources

Connect with Brittni

Follow me on the Gram – @brittni.schroeder
Join my Facebook Group 
Visit my website
Subscribe to my Youtube

 

 

INSTAGRAM EXPERT TIPS WITH ELIZABETH MARBERRY

INSTAGRAM EXPERT TIPS WITH ELIZABETH MARBERRY

In the bustling world of business and marketing, staying ahead of the curve is essential. In a recent episode of the Redefined Business Podcast, host Brittni Schroeder dives into the intricacies of leveraging Instagram for business success with her guest, Elizabeth Marberry, an Instagram expert, mentor and coach. 

 

MEET THE GUEST

Elizabeth Marberry is a visibility and marketing expert with a heart for authenticity and FUN. Elizabeth launched her thriving Wedding Dance Coach Business in 2010 and grew it to a multi-six figure brand.  After 14+ years as a Wedding Industry Leader, Elizabeth has also grown her social media influence to over 120K combined account followers, while mentoring her expanding list of private clients to the same social media success.  She is the host of Strut It: Bold Visibility Through Instagram Marketing, a podcast that blends her passion and energy with simple yet proven organic social media marketing strategies that actually work. Elizabeth’s message? “Learn how to make Instagram work FOR your business and I promise, this gets to be FUN!”

 

THE POWER OF INSTAGRAM

Elizabeth shares her journey of transforming her dance studio’s Instagram presence from stagnant to sensational. With strategic use of Reels and a commitment to organic growth, she skyrocketed her follower count and saw a remarkable increase in revenue. What’s more, her emphasis on providing value through educational content proved to be a game-changer, attracting thousands to her email list and solidifying her position as an authority in her niche.

 

KEY STRATEGIES FOR INSTAGRAM SUCCESS

Drawing from her expertise, Elizabeth highlights three types of content that consistently perform well on Instagram: educational, inspirational, and entertaining. Whether it’s sharing industry insights, inspiring personal anecdotes, or injecting humor into posts, each approach serves to captivate and connect with the audience. Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of optimizing one’s bio and profile to make a lasting impression on potential followers.

 

NAVIGATING THE CHANGING INSTAGRAM LANDSCAPE

In a dynamic platform like Instagram, adaptability is key. Elizabeth and Brittni discuss the challenges of staying relevant amidst algorithm changes and fluctuating engagement rates. While it’s natural to feel discouraged at times, they advocate for perseverance and experimentation. By leveraging analytics and embracing collaboration opportunities, entrepreneurs can stay ahead of the curve and maximize their impact on the platform.

 

THE HUMAN ELEMENT OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Amidst the metrics and strategies, Elizabeth and Brittni underscore the importance of human connection. Behind every like and comment lies a real person with unique needs and desires. By fostering genuine interactions and nurturing relationships, entrepreneurs can cultivate a loyal community that transcends the digital realm.

THE LOSS OF MY SON AND A TENDER MERCY

THE LOSS OF MY SON AND A TENDER MERCY
THE LOSS OF MY SON AND A TENDER MERCY

This month will mark seven years since my son Gage passed away. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss him and feel a huge void in my life. I know this is a business podcast, but I wanted to share a story with y’all about business and life balance and a tender mercy.

The year was 2016. I was living in El Paso, Texas, with my husband and three kids. I had a very successful high school senior photography business. I had recently been featured in the Wall Street Journal. I was on “Good Morning America.” I was asked to judge Miss New Mexico, USA. I owned a photography magazine. I had built an incredible brand, and I was so proud of it. I was at the peak of my career. 

I was very blessed in my personal life as well. We had moved into our dream home. I had great friends. We were traveling to incredible places all over the world. We had the opportunity to give our kids so many life experiences. 

Life was good. 

The end of school was quickly approaching, and my oldest son, Gage, who was finishing eighth grade, started having some issues with some of his friends. Like any mother, my focus quickly turned to helping him work through this trial. He was deeply loyal to his friends, and it was really hard on him. There is nothing more painful than seeing your kids struggle. 

Together, we decided that it was time to just find new friends. Eventually, he worked through it. He found a new group of amazing friends, and again, our house was constantly filled with friends, love, and laughter. 

I’ve always loved being a mom. It’s been the most important thing I’ve ever done in my life. It’s changed me as a person. It’s given me purpose, and there’s nothing in this world I’d rather be doing. I love being a mom. 

During this time, I had this powerful and compelling insight. My son Gage was getting ready to go into high school. I had the sobering realization that I had only four more years with my oldest son until he moved on to the next stage of his life. I had only four more years of driving him to friends’ houses; four more years of watching movies together; four more years of daily hugs, kisses, and I love yous. Four more years of spending my days taking care of him every day. 

Right then and there, I decided that I had to change my priorities. I raised my prices in my business, I cut back on the amount of clients I took, we sold the photography magazine, and I started saying NO to things that took me away from my family. 

That next year, I spent my days driving cars full of kids all over town, spending too much money on pizza, patching holes in walls from skateboards, going on road trips, picking up wet towels left by the pool, and lots and lots of nights with little to no sleep because our house was filled with rowdy kids. 

The chaos was music to my ears. 

The truth of the matter is that I didn’t have four more years with my son I had only one more year. My son, Gage,  was in an accident and passed away on May 17, 2017. 

I often look back on that moment when I thought I had only four more years with him and recognize that it was a tender mercy. I feel so grateful that I listened and trusted myself. I’m grateful that I took action and realigned my priorities. 

I know that sometimes, being a working mom seems like a balancing act that just isn’t working. It feels overwhelming and draining, but if I can give you any advice, it is to listen to yourself. Trust your gut. Take care of the things that are most important to you and never, ever take for granted the people whom you love.

TIKTOK MARKETING WITH WAVE WYLD

TIKTOK MARKETING WITH WAVE WYLD

 

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Redefine Business Podcast! I’m Brittni Schroeder, your host and guide through the complex world of business and marketing. This week, we’re diving deep into the potential of TikTok as a powerful marketing tool. Our guest, Wave Wyld, is a TikTok marketing expert who has successfully pivoted her career to harness the power of this dynamic platform. Let’s delve into her insights and tips for leveraging TikTok to boost your business.

 

MEET WAVE WYLD

 

Before TikTok, Wave Wyld had an impressive background in photography and personal branding, particularly for female entrepreneurs. When a friend suggested she explore TikTok in early 2020, she was initially curious. After posting various types of content, one of her videos went viral, hooking her on the platform’s potential. Recognizing TikTok’s marketing power, especially during the pandemic when her photography business slowed down, she pivoted to become a TikTok specialist, sharing her expertise with her audience and helping others succeed on the platform.

 

UNDERSTANDING TIK TOK: THE BASICS AND THE BENEFITS 

 

TikTok is a short-form video platform known for its vertical video format and the influential “For You” page. This page is the heart of TikTok’s discoverability, allowing users to reach a broad audience, even if they’re new to the app. Unlike other platforms, TikTok prioritizes authenticity, with users often posting candid, in-the-moment videos. This realness contrasts with Instagram’s more curated aesthetic.

 

KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN TIKTOK AND INSTAGRAM 

 

  • Culture and Style: TikTok videos often feature users in everyday settings, emphasizing authenticity and spontaneity. Instagram, especially through Reels, has developed its own trends and aesthetic, often more polished.

 

  • Account Types: TikTok offers two main account types—Creator and Business. Creators need 1,000 followers to access the link in bio feature, crucial for driving traffic. Business accounts get this feature immediately but with limited access to trending music.

 

NAVIGATING TIKTOK’S ALGORITHM

 

Many users wonder if the algorithm favors business or personal accounts. Wave clarified that the algorithm treats both account types equally, focusing primarily on engagement and watch time. To go viral or achieve high visibility, the content must resonate with the audience, prompting them to engage and watch the video multiple times.

 

TIPS FOR CREATING VIRAL CONTENT

 

  • Focus on the Message: Content that engages viewers emotionally or intellectually tends to perform well. This could be educational, storytelling, or content that elicits strong reactions.

 

  • Watch Time and Engagement: These are crucial metrics. The longer people watch and interact with your video, the better it will perform in the algorithm.

 

THE APPEAL AND CHALLENGE OF GOING VIRAL

 

While going viral can bring immense visibility, it’s not always beneficial for business. Virality often attracts a broad audience, not all of whom are potential customers. Moreover, viral content can attract trolls and negative comments. Thus, it’s essential to focus on attracting and nurturing the right audience rather than chasing virality.

 

REPURPOSING CONTENT FOR TIKTOK

 

For those hesitant to dive into TikTok, repurposing existing content can be a good starting point. However, success isn’t guaranteed due to the cultural differences between platforms. TikTok values a unique style of content, so it’s important to adapt your approach to fit its norms.

 

CONSISTENCY IS KEY

 

Just like other social media platforms, consistency on TikTok is crucial. Regular posting and active engagement signal to the algorithm that you’re a committed user, which can help in getting your content pushed out more widely.

 

WORKING WITH WAVE WYLD

 

For those interested in mastering TikTok, Wave Wyld offers various ways to get started. She provides resources and services through her website, wavewyld.com, and maintains an active presence on TikTok and Instagram. Her offerings include memberships and one-on-one coaching, designed to help businesses effectively leverage TikTok.

 

FINAL THOUGHTS

 

Wave Wyld’s insights into TikTok provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to explore this vibrant platform. From understanding the basics to creating engaging content and navigating the algorithm, her expertise offers a comprehensive roadmap for TikTok success. If you’re not already on TikTok, consider exploring its potential for your business and check out Wave Wyld’s resources to get started.

HOW I GOT HERE: MY ENTREPRENEUR JOURNEY

HOW I GOT HERE: MY ENTREPRENEUR JOURNEY

 

I was recently working with a client. We’d been working together for about three months. They were feeling discouraged and frustrated about the progress of their business. When I asked them what it was that they wanted to see, they said, “I want my business to look like your business.” I chuckled and then shared with them that my business had taken me over 15 years to get to this point.

 

I think two of the biggest misconceptions we have about being an entrepreneur are that it’s easy and it’s fast. Both are so far from the truth. 

 

I wanted to do a podcast that shares a little bit more about my journey as an entrepreneur — here I’ve been and how I got here. 

 

WORK ETHIC

I recently posted a poll on social media asking people if they think work ethics is something you learn as a youth or something you can develop as an adult. I don’t know what the answer is to this, but for me, I definitely learned this as a youth. I grew up learning how to work and how to work hard. 

 

This skill has really helped me achieve success in my life. As long as I can remember, I’ve been an early riser and I don’t quit until the work is done. My work ethic, coupled with my ability to fail and push through, has been instrumental in all my accomplishments and successes. 

 

EDUCATION

I went to college not really knowing what I wanted to do. The irony of it all is I wanted to study business, but when you’re 18 years old, you don’t know what you’re doing or what you want to do. I look back now and wish I would’ve had a little bit more guidance on the possibilities. After changing my major several times, I ended up landing on doing something in the medical field. I was thinking about physical therapy or being a physician’s assistant. The undergrad degree that had all the prerequisites was exercise science. I like exercise, so there you go. 

 

The plan was to go on and get a masters, but that didn’t happen. I graduated from Utah State University with a degree in exercise science. I never went on to use the degree. 

 

I don’t believe education is ever a waste, and regardless of if I used my degree, I use my education every day. 

 

PHOTOGRAPHY

Fast forward a few years, and, at the time, I had two kids. This ages me, but this is when blogging was starting to be a big deal. I spent my days looking at blogs of people I didn’t know. I was so drawn to the blogs that had beautiful photography and decided I needed to learn to take amazing pictures of my kids, and that’s exactly what I did. 

 

I got an SLR camera for Mother’s Day one year, and the rest is history. I spent hours watching tutorials, reading blogs, taking courses, and attending workshops in an effort to learn photography. Within a year I’d started my own photography business. 

 

At the time, we lived in El Paso, Texas, and I built an incredible and very successful high school senior photography business. It took a lot of work and a lot of hustle. I built a solid brand, and I was in high demand. It was such a fun time. 

 

STARTING A MAGAZINE

About a year into my photography business, one of my photographer friends suggested we start a magazine. We didn’t know what we were doing, but we just rolled with it. We created the most stunning publication ever. 

 

It was so fun. It was such an awesome networking tool. I met so many talented photographers, and in turn, this built my network and opened up so many opportunities for me. 

 

The problem with the magazine was it was more like a side hustle for both myself and my business partner. We both had thriving photography businesses, and we just couldn’t devote the time we needed to grow that business. 

 

We really didn’t make enough money to justify the time we put into it, and we eventually decided to sell it after five years. 

 

It was a really cool, fun learning experience that helped me develop many skills. 

 

NETWORKING

One of the big things that I’d say has helped me grow each of my businesses is networking. I realize I’m innately an extrovert and a networker. I love people and love talking to people, and I’m grateful for this.

I often refer to myself as a collector of people, and this has been an asset in business growth. There’s truth to the saying “It isn’t what you know, but who you know.” I can honestly say the relationships I’ve built have opened many, many doors for me. Word of mouth is a powerful tool and can be very instrumental in creating opportunity.

In the world we live in now, it’s easy to sit behind our computer or phone, but I promise, if you have an opportunity to meet new people, do it. Don’t look for opportunity, look for relationships. Seek opportunities to help others, and I promise this will come back to you. 

 

NONPROFIT WORK

One of the most rewarding things I’ve done in my life is to get involved in nonprofit work. I have a long resume of volunteering, and it’s been life-changing and taught me so much. When my boys were little, I volunteered for Meals on Wheels. I did this for almost six years. When I started doing this, I had one kid in a stroller and was pregnant with another. We did this weekly for years. The reason I tell you this, is because often we find excuses not to serve others, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. 

 

Later, I worked with the Children’s Hospital of El Paso, Boys and Girls Club, Refugees of Texas, and PTSD Foundation of Texas. One of my favorites and most impactful was an organization called Haitian Roots. This organization educated kids in Haiti. I had the opportunity to travel to Haiti several times and help get kids sponsored to go to school. There was so much personal growth over this time, and it played such a role in who I’ve become. 

 

I was on the board of directors on Haitian Roots, and I learned so much about nonprofits during this time. In 2017, after my 14-year-old son passed away I started my own nonprofit called The Gage Schroeder Compassion Foundation and still run it today. 

 

Nonprofit work is so meaningful, and I encourage everyone to find an organization that aligns with your beliefs and get involved. You won’t regret it. 

 

LIFE COACHING

Around 2017, after I lost my son and started my nonprofit I was introduced to life coaching. I was obviously going through a midlife crisis and was looking for something to make me feel better. During this time, I was also working a lot with kids and wanted to help them. Several people told me I should become a life coach. 

 

At first. I thought it was hokey and blew it off. But then, I had a friend send me a life coaching podcast. Instantly, I was hooked on the tools and mindset shifts that I was learning about. In 2018, I got certified as a life coach. 

 

Honestly, for my own personal growth, it was one of the best investments I’ve made. It was one of those things that I didn’t know you were missing until I learned about it. It completely reframed my entire belief system and the way I viewed every single relationship. It also helped me change the way I viewed my mindset when it came to business and has been instrumental in my growth as a person and a business owner.

 

BUSINESS COACHING

This brings us to the current time and business. Around the same time I was getting certified as a life coach and starting my own nonprofit, we’d moved from El Paso to Houston. I didn’t want to start another location-based business. I wanted to have the ability to work wherever I wanted, so I decided this would be a good time to pivot. 

 

I’d always been good at business. In fact, when I was a photographer, I often said that the business part came naturally — it was the creative part that I had to work harder at. When I was in the photography industry, I was often asked to speak on the business aspects of photography. So when I decided to pivot, it only made sense to help others with their business and marketing. 

 

I love to learn, teach, and help other people build businesses. It’s been so rewarding. Not to say I haven’t failed, because oh boy have I failed, but that’s just part of owning a business, right?

Just like all businesses, they evolve. When I first started business coaching, I focused a lot on teaching about marketing and creating a strong brand. I still do this, but now I focus on more of the foundation tools, such as systems, automation, and strategy. We work on creating sales funnels and nailing down messaging. I have several digital courses, such as: Grow Your Gram. Grow Your Group. Rock the Reels, and Email Funnel Builders. I also have a business membership called The Meeting Place. I’ve done workshops, retreats, and summits.

I’ve failed a lot and had lots of success. I’ve been an entrepreneur for 15 years, and along the way, I’ve learned and gained so many skills and tools that have helped me grow. There are still so many things I still want to do, so stay tuned. 

 

I’m so grateful for all the support and encouragement I’ve gained along the way, and I hope I’m able to give as much as I receive. I hope you enjoyed this podcast and learned something new about me.

If you liked this podcast, please subscribe and share with your friends. If you really liked it. I’d love a review. Wink! Wink! 

REVITALIZED WOMANHOOD WITH GINA TRIMMER

REVITALIZED WOMANHOOD WITH GINA TRIMMER

Gina Trimmer, the dynamic host of the Revitalized Womanhood podcast, shares her remarkable journey, intertwining personal growth, and the creation of a vibrant community. Her story begins with the inception of Pure Imperfection, an Instagram platform challenging society’s obsession with perfection. Alongside her husband and two children, Gina embarked on a global adventure, immersing themselves in diverse cultures until 2019. However, the shadows of postpartum depression and a traumatic birth led Gina to seek renewal and purpose.

Out of this crucible emerged Revitalized Womanhood—a beacon of empowerment and solidarity for women seeking fulfillment and impact. Rooted in principles of mindfulness, gratitude, and intentionality, this community transcends mere podcasting and social media; it’s a sisterhood of kindred spirits striving for excellence in motherhood, partnership, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. Revitalized Womanhood stands as a testament to Gina’s resilience and vision, reclaiming and restoring womanhood to its rightful place.

Behind the microphone, Gina Trimmer is not just a voice but a Southern Utah mom of three boys, a devoted wife of 16 years, and a connoisseur of coffee. Amidst the hustle of daily life—errands, laundry, school pickups, and football practices—Gina’s journey is anything but conventional. From experiencing the highs of the American Dream to the lows of recession-induced loss, Gina and her family transformed adversity into opportunity through disciplined budgeting and entrepreneurial endeavors. This newfound financial freedom facilitated a life of adventure, spanning over 40 countries and countless experiences documented on her popular Instagram account, @pure.imperfection.

While currently settled in Utah with her youngest son, Gina’s restless spirit anticipates a return to long-term travel in January 2023. Transitioning seamlessly into the world of podcasting, Gina invites listeners into the realm of Revitalized Womanhood, where her passion for empowerment and authenticity shines brightly. For those seeking inspiration and connection, Gina’s podcast Instagram, @revitalizedwomanhood, serves as a guiding light on the path to personal growth and purposeful living.