She's Busy AF: Recent Episodes

Lauren Loreto

Committed to helping audacious business owners, founders and entrepreneurs who are ready to grow their brands, their way, the She's Busy AF Podcast with Lauren Bordelon of Brand Good Time is focused on providing bite-sized, no BS business and marketing lessons.

The She’s Busy AF podcast is dedicated to the brands who want MORE - freedom and flexibility, working more ON their business instead of in it, and finally - feeling like they can step away from their business (even if for a hot second) without it crumbling.

Lauren is on a mission to make business and marketing EASIER and more EFFECTIVE for brands through this podcast - empowering her listeners to build a sustainable brand that stands the test of time. The best part: every episode is 30 mins or less - and binge-able AF.

So, now what? Cozy up with your favorite notes app, notebook and a cup of something (alcohol included), and tune in weekly for business, marketing, & teaching tips.

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If you’ve been sitting on a quiz idea for months (or… 18 months 👀), this is your sign. Today, Lauren and Aurrie map out how to launch a quiz scrappy, use it as a data engine (not just a cute lead magnet), and build the “wings” after it’s already in the air. From results-first planning to routing logic, landing pages, email segmentation, and IG-era distribution (hello, ManyChat), this episode is your no-excuses quiz playbook.

✈️ GET THE FLIGHT DECK BREAKDOWN: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, we cover:

  • Why the quizzes that win are the ones that actually get launched (messy action > perfect funnels)
  • Quiz types that convert
  • Simplifying language so beginners can answer (no “macro” talk if your audience is brand-new)
  • Where your quiz should live
  • What happens after the quiz: result pages, personas, and non-salesy CTAs that still convert & email segmentation 101
  • Retargeting + lookalikes: using quiz data beyond email (especially for e-comm)
  • Modern distribution ideas

Timestamps

  • 2:17 – The perfectionism trap (especially for designers) + why you’ve gotta ship it
  • 4:14 – The #1 quiz unlock
  • 6:10 – Simplify the language or your quiz dies (aka “don’t lead with macros”)
  • 7:03 – E-comm vs service quizzes: product match vs assessment (and why both work)
  • 8:29 – Where to steal inspo: Interact’s industry examples (juice cleanses, real estate, relocation)
  • 12:40 – Routing logic without spiraling: scoring, branching, follow-the-path
  • 16:49 – “Close the loop” psychology + how to set expectations upfront (no scammy vibes)
  • 19:11 – Best practice: build a landing page on your site to house + promote the quiz
  • 20:38 – After-the-quiz strategy
  • 23:07 – Email automation + segmentation
  • 25:30 – Paid ads + retargeting
  • 27:05 – List hygiene + re-engagement: quizzes as a “come back” hook

Navigator’s Resources (mentioned)

  • Interact (quiz builder + examples by industry + lead capture + logic tools) Use our link to get started: https://get.tryinteract.com/jkx44i3di07w
  • ChatGPT (help with scoring + routing logic planning)
  • ManyChat (DM-based distribution: “comment X and we’ll send the quiz”)
  • Pinterest placements (quiz visibility + evergreen discovery)
  • Meta Ads (retarget quiz-takers + build lookalike audiences)
  • Landing page embed strategy (quiz housed on your site for better ownership + conversion control)

Meet Your Co-Pilots

Lauren Loreto — Founder, Brand Good Time®
Expert in content marketing and web design
Website: brandgoodtime.com • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks — Founder, Hopson Rae
Expert in digital content and brand strategy
Website: hopsonrae.com • Instagram: @hopsonrae

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

Follow MAPPED OUT wherever you get your podcasts.

P.S. Want the step-by-step version, templates, and links we referenced?
Join The Flight Deck: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

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Every industry has one person quietly powering the success of thousands of brands—and in the quiz-funnel world, that person is Josh Haynam, Co-Founder & CEO of Interact, the quiz builder behind 100M+ leads, 1.3B quiz views, and some of the biggest brands and creators online.

Bootstrapped, profitable, and still founder-led after 12 years, Interact has survived four waves of VC-backed competitors—not because it had the most features, but because Josh bet everything on relationships, product clarity, and human psychology.

In this episode, Josh shares how he built a tech company that refuses to chase shiny objects… and still wins.

✈️ GET THE FLIGHT DECK BREAKDOWN: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, Josh walks us through:

⚡ How Interact survived—and outperformed—VC competitors for 12 years

⚡ The psychology behind quizzes (and why we’re now in the “Instagram Age”)

⚡ Why the best founders move fast—and why perfection is killing your results

⚡ How Interact scaled to $3.3M ARR with only 9 team members

⚡ What 8,000+ customer conversations taught him about modern marketing

⚡ What’s coming next for Interact’s design updates

⏰ TIMESTAMPS

3:38 – Competing with VC-backed copycats and why Interact chose relationships over features
8:23 – The real history of quizzes (yes, it starts in 1700s Irish pubs)
12:41 – Why agency partners, copywriters, and designers (“the Rich Pauls”) became Interact’s growth engine
16:11 – The shiny objects they did chase—and why they walked away
17:46 – What “ROI” actually looks like for quiz funnels
21:09 – What Josh is learning from today’s top creators generating 140K+ leads
27:18 – Building a no-ego team and the role of coaching inside the company
30:30 – Why quarterly offsites changed everything for their remote culture
33:06 – What’s coming in Interact’s design refresh
35:01 – Where quizzes are headed in the next 5 years
41:00 – Why founders over 30 struggle with speed—and how to fix it
48:29 – Josh’s 90-Day Marketing Playbook if he were starting Interact today
52:48 – HIGH / LOW / STOW

🔗 CONNECT WITH JOSH HAYNAM

  • LinkedIn: Josh Haynam
  • Interact: tryinteract.com

👩‍✈️ MEET YOUR CO-PILOTS

Lauren Loreto

Founder, Brand Good Time
Instagram: @brandgoodtime
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Aurrie Hicks

Founder, Hopson Rae
Instagram: @hopsonrae
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

🎧 LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE

Follow Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts.

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Every big brand starts in the trenches—and sometimes the most powerful growth lever is sitting in your inbox. Today, Lauren and Aurrie react to their chat with Ari Murray and go all-in on founder-led newsletters: quick history, what’s working now, and a simple way to structure a newsletter people actually look forward to.

✈️ GET THE FLIGHT DECK BREAKDOWN: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, we cover:

  • A (very) fast history of newsletters and why the “personal blog energy” is back
  • The #1 rule: your newsletter must solve a specific problem (not “updates”)
  • How to create a predictable format readers recognize on sight
  • Founder tone without the “dear diary” trap: storytelling that serves the reader
  • Tools, workflows, and idea capture so you never face a blank page
  • Where Substack fits (and when to start there)

Timestamps

  • 0:48 – Why we’re obsessed with newsletters (and why this pairs with a Season 2 tactical episode)
  • 3:04 – The quick history: from Roman “daily acts” to Substack’s blog-era revival
  • 6:38 – ROI, owned channels, and where email still wins for both e-comm and services
  • 8:42 – Start here: define the problem your newsletter solves (real examples)
  • 11:22 – Format > vibes: building a predictable structure your audience can scan
  • 14:10 – Lauren’s format teardown (campaign breakdowns, “second bests,” poll, light CTA)
  • 16:21 – Aurrie’s format teardown (cultural tie-ins + signature recipe closer)
  • 18:46 – Brand voice without oversharing: micro-stories that pull weight
  • 23:00 – The capture system: docs, notes, Slack to self, saved IG folders
  • 26:55 – Substack as a no-friction starting line (and why “messy action” wins)
  • 27:35 – What’s next: list growth ideas and a tease for our quiz-powered episode

Your Mapped Out Moment (homework)

Audit your newsletter (or the one you’re about to start):

  1. Problem: What specific problem does it solve for readers? Write one sentence.
  2. Name/Promise Match: Does the title clearly signal that problem?
  3. Format: Lock a repeatable skeleton (e.g., Hook → Deep Dive → Second Bests → Wildcard → Quick CTA).
  4. Hook & Shareability: What’s the forward-worthy angle this week (story, hot take, or “steal this” template)?
  5. Friction-free Setup: Pick your platform (Substack is great to start) and set up a running idea dump (Doc/Notes/Slack).

Navigator’s Resources (mentioned)

  • Substack (easy start + built-in discovery)
  • A simple capture stack: Google Doc + Notes app + “DM to self”/Slack channel
  • Reader poll at the end of each send (tiny habit, big signal)

Meet Your Co-Pilots

Lauren Loreto — Founder, Brand Good Time®
Expert in content marketing and web design
Website: brandgoodtime.com • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks — Founder, Hopson Rae
Expert in digital content and brand strategy
Website: hopsonrae.com • Instagram: @hopsonrae

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

Follow MAPPED OUT wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t miss the next stop in Season 3 as we keep unpacking the real-world playbooks modern brands are using to grow.

P.S.

Want the step-by-step version, templates, and links we referenced?

Join The Flight Deck: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

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Every brand story has a turning point—and Ari Murray’s begins with dropping out of law school. From customer service agent to VP of Growth at Sharma Brands, Ari’s career has been a masterclass in turning setbacks into strategy. Now, as the creator of Go-To-Millions, one of the most-loved newsletters in marketing, she’s redefining how founders build audiences—with honesty, humor, and a healthy dose of exclamation marks.

✈️ GET THE FLIGHT DECK BREAKDOWN: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, Ari shares how she:

  • Went from answering customer service emails to leading growth for iconic DTC brands.
  • Built Go-To-Millions from 400 early subscribers to 50,000+ loyal readers—without ever “playing the algorithm.”
  • Turns humor and humility into her biggest brand differentiators.
  • Balances honesty and hype in sponsored content (and what brands often get wrong about trust).
  • Learned the real cost of inflexibility in e-commerce marketing—and how to pivot when things go off-script.
  • Keeps her content consistent while juggling motherhood, a career in growth, and one very viral marketing household.

If you’ve ever wondered how to build an audience around authenticity—or how to stay relevant when the internet moves faster than your strategy—this episode maps out the playbook.

⏰ TIMESTAMPS

3:45 – What customer service teaches you about human behavior
7:20 – Branding, tone, and what “thank you!” says about your company
10:24 – The voice behind Go-To-Millions: how Ari found her tone
15:50 – Building audience momentum from scratch
20:00 – Sponsorships, transparency, and what makes readers actually trust you
25:10 – How to grow a newsletter when you don’t have a million followers
38:40 – What most DTC brands get wrong about flexibility
45:10 – Why “newness” is the most underrated Black Friday strategy
49:10 – Life with The Marketing Millennials (and how their creative partnership works)
51:15 – What’s next for Go-To-Millions
52:20 – Ari’s High / Low / Stow

🔗 CONNECT WITH ARI MURRAY

  • Website: gotomillions.co
  • LinkedIn: Ari Murray

👩‍✈️ MEET YOUR CO-PILOTS

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Follow Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts.

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Welcome to Season 3 of MAPPED OUT! In this reaction episode, Lauren and Aurrie dive deep into Ashley Chang's guerrilla marketing origin story—specifically, her strategy of posting flyers on downtown light poles. This episode reframes how we think about out-of-home marketing in a digital-first world and challenges the myth that social media alone will launch your brand. If you've been pouring all your energy into TikTok, Instagram, or paid ads hoping for overnight success, this episode will shift your perspective. Lauren and Aurrie share real examples of major brands that started with grassroots, physical marketing tactics—and why meeting your customers in the real world might be exactly what your brand needs.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:55] Building on Ashley's flyer strategy and why out-of-home marketing deserves more credit

[00:04:10] The TikTok slow burn myth—why going viral isn't a launch strategy

[00:11:23] How Glossier built a beauty empire without traditional advertising

[00:23:15] Red Bull's guerrilla marketing playbook—from college campuses to extreme sports

[00:40:56] The eyeball surgeon billboard fail—when out-of-home goes wrong

[00:43:04] Love Shack Fancy's pink Bronco—creative out-of-home done right

Key Brands & Examples Discussed

  • Glossier - Built through community and word-of-mouth before scaling digitally
  • Red Bull - Guerrilla marketing at college campuses and extreme sports events
  • Love Shack Fancy - Custom pink Bronco as mobile brand experience
  • Sprinter (Kylie Jenner's beverage brand) - Celebrity-backed product with instant recognition
  • Various CPG startups navigating the TikTok landscape

Resources Mentioned

  • Startup CPG Slack community
  • TikTok Shop and TikTok Live features
  • The four-phase TikTok success wheel (Shop → Affiliate → Organic Content → Live Stream)

Connect With Us

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Have questions about out-of-home marketing or want to share your own guerrilla marketing wins? Our DMs are open!

Visit mappedoutpod.com to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights, visuals, and examples from each episode.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #OutOfHomeMarketing #GuerrillaMarketing #MarketingStrategy #BrandBuilding #Grassroots #TikTokMarketing #CPGMarketing #SocialMediaStrategy #MarketingPodcast #DigitalMarketing #BrandGrowth

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Every big brand starts in the trenches—and Ashley Chang is living proof that grassroots growth still wins. After watching her mom leave a software-engineering career to raise a family, Ashley made it her mission to build a future where no one has to choose between work and home. The result: Sundays—a company helping parents “scale their lives, not just their work.”

✈️ GET THE FLIGHT DECK BREAKDOWN: www.mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, Ashley shares how she:

  • Personally interviewed 1,000+ parents before writing a single line of code.
  • Printed flyers, taped them to telephone poles in San Francisco, and built her first customer base from there.
  • Bootstrapped her company methodically to the $1 million mark—without a dime of traditional funding.
  • Turned human connection (not algorithms) into Sundays’ most powerful marketing channel.

If you’ve ever felt like you “need funding to grow,” this one proves how far resourcefulness, empathy, and great storytelling can take you.

Timestamps

0:48 – Meet Ashley Chang: from Carta & Collective Health to starting Sundays
4:56 – Why she interviewed 1,000+ parents before launching
9:08 – Version 1: the “email-and-text” MVP that taught her everything
11:08 – Bootstrapping 101: blue flyers, printers, and San Francisco telephone poles
14:00 – LinkedIn as Sundays’ secret growth engine
17:10 – The hardest choices in a bootstrapped startup (and how she made them)
27:10 – Building a team of 30 moms—and why human connection beats AI
35:36 – How becoming a mom herself changed her mission
45:16 – Ashley’s High / Low / Stow

🔗 Connect with Ashley & Sundays

  • Website: withsundays.com
  • LinkedIn: Ashley Chang
  • Instagram: @with_sundays

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

Follow Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t miss the next stop in Season 3 as we continue unpacking how the industry’s best marketers built their brands from the ground up.

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We are SOOOOO back!! Aurrie and Lauren sit down for a few mins to share what's to come for Season 3. We are SO EXCITED and cannot wait to share more about who is joining us, very soon.

→ Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Connect With Us

  • Newsletter: mappedoutpod.com/newsletter
  • Instagram: @mappedoutpod
  • Email: wheelsup@mappedoutpod.com

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if this season helped you level up your marketing game.

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Welcome back to Mapped Out! Lauren and Aurrie are wrapping up Season 2 with a bang—diving into what made this season special, sneaking a peek behind the curtain of what's coming in Season 3, and giving you the mid-year goal check-in you didn't know you needed. If you've been wondering whether your goals still align with where you're headed (or if you're crushing them so hard you need to level up), this episode is your permission slip to realign and refocus.

→ Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:00:33] Season 2 recap: 15 episodes of deep-dive marketing strategies and why this format was a game-changer
  • [00:01:28] Why Season 2 felt like a mini marketing playbook—and how we took action from these conversations too
  • [00:05:49] Season 3 sneak peek
  • [00:09:52] Mid-year pulse check: Are your goals still aligned and what's shifted?
  • [00:15:29] Lauren's ad campaign update: 1,000+ downloads, new funnels, and approaching that 3,000 subscriber goal
  • [00:18:33] Aurrie's merch launch: Using Printify for made-to-order success (link dropping this week!)

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Episodes Referenced

  • Stop #1: Goal Planning (still their most downloaded episode!)
  • Stop #3: Mapping Out the Funnel (perfect diagnostic when things feel stuck)
  • Season 2 as a whole: LinkedIn founder presence, copywriting deep-dives, customer journey mapping, swag shop setup, and more tactical playbooks

Real Business Updates

  • Lauren's Ad Results: 1,000+ downloads on lead magnet, strong engagement, almost at 3,000 email subscribers (500 away from goal)
  • Aurrie's Merch: Samples approved, using Printify, link launching this week
  • Team Growth: Lauren added 2 new team members since beginning of year
  • Goal Crushing: Both hosts hitting and exceeding their original bingo card goals

Your Homework

  1. Leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts
  2. Share your biggest takeaways from Season 1 or 2
  3. Mid-year goal audit: Go back to your goals—are they still aligned? Need to level up?
  4. Got connections? Know any CMOs, founders, or marketers at household name brands? We'd love an intro for Season 3!

Connect With Us

  • Newsletter: mappedoutpod.com/newsletter
  • Instagram: @mappedoutpod
  • Email: wheelsup@mappedoutpod.com

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if this season helped you level up your marketing game—we'll see you at the next stop for Season 3 this fall!

MappedOutPodcast #SeasonFinale #GoalSetting #BusinessGrowth #MarketingStrategy #PodcastRecap #Season3Preview #MidYearGoals #MarketingPodcast #FounderLife

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Welcome back to Mapped Out! Lauren and Aurrie are diving into the unsexy but absolutely critical world of client onboarding. If you've ever wondered why some businesses are sales machines but can't figure out their churn rate, this episode breaks down exactly how to nail the handoff from "yes" to delivery—and why this phase is actually your most important marketing.

→ Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:01:17] Why client onboarding IS marketing and the most important marketing you'll ever do
  • [00:03:39] How mature businesses handle the gap between "yes" and delivery
  • [00:05:23] The hidden costs: It's 5-25x more expensive to acquire new customers than retain existing ones
  • [00:07:45] The three critical layers: Trust transfer, experience design, and team empowerment
  • [00:13:05] Meet Sarah from Vivid Impact Partners with expert insights from scaling an agency to almost $10M
  • [00:29:26] The trust transfer breakdown and why signing contracts is the starting line, not finish line
  • [00:32:27] The "we vs. I" language trap that keeps founders stuck in every client relationship
  • [00:39:00] Metrics that matter: From trust transfer to team empowerment KPIs

Meet Your HostsLauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Meet The Guest

Sarah – Vivid Impact Partners

  • Founder of Vivid Impact Partners
  • Strategic partner to agencies ready to scale without chaos
  • Mission: Helping agencies grow with clarity, confidence, and zero founder bottlenecks
  • Website: vividimpactpartners.com
  • LinkedIn: Sarah at Vivid Impact Partners

Brands & Examples Mentioned

  • Handwrytten – Used as part of a high-touch onboarding experience to send automated, branded handwritten notes and birthday cards to new clients.
  • Monday.com – A project management tool leveraged to streamline due dates and internal workflows across onboarding and offboarding stages.
  • Slack – Employed with custom SOPs and pinned templates for seamless sales-to-delivery handoffs, internal team communication, and proactive client updates.
  • ChatGPT – Used to analyze client sentiment from onboarding surveys and improve internal processes with clearer feedback patterns.
  • HoneyBook – Utilized to automate offboarding workflows and schedule client satisfaction surveys post-project.
  • AI Note Takers (like Fireflies or Fathom) – Suggested to summarize client calls and reduce knowledge gaps in the trust transfer process.
  • Google Drive – Central hub for branded onboarding documents, client resources, and experience design touchpoints.

Connect With Us

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to leave a review if this episode helped you tighten up your client process—we’d love to hear from you!

MappedOutPodcast #ClientOnboarding #RetentionStrategy #MarketingOps #ClientExperience #BusinessGrowth #AgencyLife #FounderLife #ServiceBusiness #CustomerSuccess #MarketingPodcast

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This week Lauren and Aurrie dive deep into the world of branded merchandise strategy with guest expert Amanda Hoffman from Go to Market Studio. This episode breaks down why traditional merch tactics are failing and how to create a strategic approach that actually builds your brand instead of ending up in landfills.

--> Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:02:19] Why 73% of promotional products end up in landfills within one year
  • [00:04:36] The trap of "logo drops" and why bulk ordering is so 1990s
  • [00:08:15] How merch strategy should mirror your brand strategy and values
  • [00:14:23] Choice vs. bulk: Why offering options dramatically reduces waste
  • [00:15:23] The psychology behind making merch that doesn't end up in the trash
  • [00:18:33] How to figure out what merch will actually make an impact for your brand
  • [00:26:31] The choice principle: Why personalization beats bulk every time
  • [00:33:51] Print-on-demand vs. bulk ordering ROI considerations
  • [00:36:19] Sustainability metrics as brand reputation protection
  • [00:46:17] The mapped out moment: Three action steps for strategic merch

What You'll Learn

  • Why most companies treat merch as an afterthought and how to flip that mindset
  • The four pillars of strategic merch: choice, brand differentiation, values alignment, and strategic purpose
  • How to move from "logo drops" to lifestyle-based merchandise that people actually want
  • The difference between disposable vs. sustainable merch strategies
  • Real examples of brands doing merch strategy brilliantly (and why it works)
  • How to measure merch success beyond "how many did we give away"
  • The adjustment protocol for when your merch strategy isn't working
  • Creative ways to incorporate your brand messaging into physical products

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Meet The GuestAmanda Hofman - Go to Market Studio

  • Co-Founder & CEO of Go to Market Studio
  • Expert in sustainable, strategic branded merchandise
  • Website: gotomarket.studio
  • LinkedIn: Amanda Hofman (with one F)

Brands & Examples Mentioned

  • Bucc-ee’s (nostalgia-driven merch mastery)
  • Chuy’s restaurant (creative taco cat t-shirts)
  • Book of the Month (strategic bookmark messaging)
  • Calendly (functional ring light swag)
  • SeaKeeper (clever maritime-themed messaging)
  • Seaside (exclusivity and lifestyle branding)
  • Goody (choice-based gifting platform)
  • Salty Dog Cafe (location-based nostalgia)

Connect With Us

Have questions about merch strategy? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #MerchStrategy #BrandedMerchandise #PrintOnDemand #SustainableMerch #BrandStrategy #MarketingPodcast #BusinessGrowth #BrandConsistency

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Welcome back to MAPPED OUT™! Lauren and Aurrie tackle the AI revolution that's completely reshaping SEO and search behavior. Joined by SEO expert Meg Clarke from Clapping Dog Media, this episode breaks down why traditional SEO tactics are failing and how to position your brand for the new era of AI-powered search.

--> Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:02:56] Why clients don't ask about "getting on the first page of Google" anymore
  • [00:05:26] How search behavior has fundamentally shifted beyond Google
  • [00:07:14] Why AI search tools prioritize authority over engagement
  • [00:09:02] The four pillars of strategic SEO in the AI age
  • [00:16:32] Page purpose strategy: Making your value proposition findable
  • [00:18:51] Domain authority secrets: Why LinkedIn posts now show up in search results
  • [00:21:07] AI optimization: What search bots look for to verify expertise
  • [00:24:47] Meg's breakdown: Traditional SEO vs. AI search visibility
  • [00:26:06] The EAT framework: Expertise, Authority, and Trust
  • [00:31:44] Why 75% of AI tools surface answers without linking out
  • [00:38:58] The adjustment protocol for low AI visibility

What You'll Learn

  • How the game has changed when it comes to how people use search engines
  • The psychology behind how people actually use AI search tools
  • Why search engines now prioritize expertise over keyword optimization
  • The exact difference between traditional Google SEO and AI search visibility
  • How to structure content for citations rather than clicks
  • The metrics that actually matter in AI-powered search
  • Why cross-platform visibility is now essential for search authority

Flight Facts Featured

  • 27% of Americans now prefer AI chatbots over traditional search engines (December 2024)
  • 75% of Gen AI search tools surface answers directly without linking out
  • Wine label branding agency example: Hyper-niching leads to #1 ChatGPT ranking

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Meet The Guest Meg Clarke - Clapping Dog Media

  • SEO expert specializing in AI search optimization
  • Expert in the transition from engagement-based to expertise-based search
  • Focus on building authority across multiple platforms
  • Website: clappingdogmedia.com
  • LinkedIn: Meg Clarke

Resources Mentioned

  • SEO research tools: Answer the Public, SEMrush, Keywords Everywhere
  • AI search platforms: ChatGPT, Perplexity, Google AI Mode, Claude

Connect With Us

Have questions about AI and SEO? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com/newsletter to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #AISEO #SearchOptimization #AISearch #DigitalMarketing #SEOStrategy #ChatGPT #Perplexity #MarketingPodcast #SearchMarketing #BusinessGrowth

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GET ON OUR FLIGHT DECK EMAIL LIST: https://mappedoutpod.com/newsletter

Welcome back to MAPPED OUT! Lauren and Aurrie dive deep into email marketing that actually moves the needle in the middle of the funnel. Joined by email marketing strategist Gabriella Rezex, this episode breaks down why most brands are doing email wrong and how to fix it with three simple pillars: design, data, and deliverability.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:01:00] Why your email subscribers are skimming, not studying your content
  • [00:09:29] How to think about flows as your 24/7 sales team
  • [00:13:26] The four biggest email mistakes brands make (and how to avoid them)
  • [00:16:03] Segmentation strategies: engagement, interest, location, and action-based
  • [00:17:11] Why you need both sales AND nurture content (not just one)
  • [00:18:26] The quarterly flow audit that protects your email success
  • [00:20:58] Why your email footer is precious real estate you're probably wasting
  • [00:23:17] Essential flows for product-based businesses vs. service-based brands
  • [00:29:11] Creative ways to grow your email list (beyond the basic pop-up)
  • [00:42:27] Troubleshooting guide: High opens but low clicks, low engagement, and more

What You'll Learn

  • Why segmentation from day one yields results faster than generic welcome sequences
  • The exact flows every product and service business needs to convert subscribers
  • How to use your email footer to build authority and drive additional engagement
  • The psychology behind why people actually read emails (hint: it's not what you think)
  • Data-driven approaches to A/B testing that actually improve performance
  • Creative list-building strategies that go beyond discount pop-ups
  • How to balance nurture and sales content without being spammy
  • The metrics that matter most (spoiler: it's not open rates)

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Meet The Guest

Gabriella Rezex

  • Email marketing strategist specializing in middle-of-funnel conversion
  • LinkedIn: Gabriella Rezex

Resources Mentioned

  • Jeff Felten on Threads: @heyjefffelten (original quote about how subscribers really read emails)
  • Corrie Meyers newsletter: Featured example of using Loom videos in newsletters (example Loom video)
  • Email inspiration sites: milled.com, reallygoodemails.com, emaillove.com
  • Platform recommendations: Flodesk, ConvertKit, Klaviyo, and MailChimp
  • Superhuman for email management
  • Exit-intent and scroll-based pop-up strategies

Connect With Us

Have questions about email marketing? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #EmailMarketing #MiddleOfFunnel #EmailStrategy #MarketingAutomation #EmailDesign #ConversionOptimization #MarketingPodcast #EmailSegmentation

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Lauren and Aurrie dive deep into LinkedIn strategy with expert Molly Godfrey, who breaks down her three-posts-per-week framework that's helped over 200 founders build their voice and generate real business on the platform. If LinkedIn has ever felt like a chore or a weird networking event, this episode will completely change your approach.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:00:37] Why LinkedIn feels like a chore and how to change that energy
  • [01:16] The shift toward humanizing brands through founder presence on LinkedIn
  • [06:21] Core frameworks for creating content without it taking over your life
  • [13:50] The three-part content strategy: Value, Personal Story, and Social Proof
  • [14:46] Why thought leadership posts need to dig deeper than basic how-tos
  • [17:42] Bottom-of-funnel content that actually converts to sales
  • [20:31] How LinkedIn works as a relationship nurturing tool
  • [22:29] Using LinkedIn to warm up prospects after sales calls
  • [36:40] Metrics that actually matter on LinkedIn
  • [41:12] Mapped Out Moment: Your three-post framework homework

What You'll Learn

  • How to create a sustainable three-posts-per-week LinkedIn strategy
  • The difference between value content that builds trust vs. basic educational posts
  • Strategic personal storytelling that connects without oversharing
  • How to create social proof content that naturally leads to sales conversations
  • Why giving each post a specific job (trust, connect, convert) improves results
  • How to use LinkedIn as a nurturing tool for sales prospects
  • Metrics that matter more than vanity engagement numbers
  • How to format posts for easy reading and better engagement
  • The power of boilerplate signatures to reinforce your expertise

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Meet The Guest Molly Godfrey

  • LinkedIn strategist and coach
  • Helped over 200 founders build their voice on LinkedIn
  • Advocates for minimalist, strategic approach to LinkedIn content
  • Find her on LinkedIn: Molly Godfrey
  • Newsletter: https://molly-godfrey.kit.com/mailinglist?_gl=15tydo3_gcl_au*NDE2MDE5NDExLjE3MzgwMDE1MzQ.

Resources Mentioned

  • Three-post weekly framework: Value, Personal Story, Social Proof
  • LinkedIn boilerplate strategy
  • Post formatting for easy reading
  • Sales Navigator for outbound strategy
  • Conference networking + LinkedIn content combination

Connect With Us

Ready to implement Molly's strategy? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper LinkedIn tactics and templates.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if this episode helped clarify your LinkedIn strategy!

MappedOutPodcast #LinkedInStrategy #ContentMarketing #ThoughtLeadership #B2BMarketing #PersonalBranding #SocialSelling #LinkedInContent #FounderLife #BusinessGrowth

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Welcome to another episode of Season 2 of MAPPED OUT! Lauren and Aurrie dive deep into the art and science of sales copy with messaging strategist Lucy Bedewi of My Write Hand Woman. If you've ever struggled with writing copy that converts or wondered why your beautiful words get compliments but don't drive sales, this episode breaks down exactly how to create messaging that triggers decisive "hell yes" or "hell no" responses.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:01:17] Why handpicked experts matter and the problem with AI-generated copy
  • [00:02:12] The difference between copy that gets compliments vs. copy that gets conversions
  • [00:04:18] Lauren's framework: storytelling over literal benefit listings
  • [00:07:03] The jargon trap and when technical language belongs
  • [00:08:43] Lucy's approach: dismantling vs. differentiating in sales copy
  • [00:19:03] Lauren and Aurrie's biggest takeaways from Lucy's framework
  • [00:21:13] How to get weird and specific with your messaging
  • [00:24:17] The toddler book test: why shorter sentences win
  • [00:26:04] How messaging shows up in paid ads with specific examples
  • [00:30:33] The Numbers Game: conversion rates, A/B testing, and quality metrics
  • [00:34:58] Troubleshooting high traffic/low conversion scenarios
  • [00:37:20] LinkedIn storytelling vs. story selling strategies
  • [00:39:01] Speaking to humans, not robots - the power of authentic voice

What You'll Learn

  • Why copy that gets compliments rarely drives sales
  • How to identify and articulate your unique "dismantle"
  • The psychology behind visceral verbs and sensory-focused language
  • Why your sales copy should repel wrong-fit clients
  • How to write concisely without losing impact
  • The difference between copy that sells vs. content that nurtures
  • Specific tactics for A/B testing messaging effectiveness
  • How to troubleshoot messaging when attracting wrong clients
  • Why authentic, human voice beats polished perfection
  • Real examples of spicy ad copy that converts

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Meet The Guest

Lucy Bedewi

  • Founder of My Write Hand Woman
  • Sales copy specialist focused on conversion over compliments
  • Expert in positioning and messaging with conviction
  • Offers sales page writing services and messaging assessments
  • Instagram: @mywritehandwoman (w-r-i-t-e)
  • Website: mywritehandwoman.com

Resources Mentioned

  • My Write Hand Woman messaging superpower quiz
  • Hotjar for website heat mapping and user behavior analysis
  • ChatGPT for visceral verb brainstorming
  • A/B testing tools for landing pages
  • Heat map analysis for page engagement
  • Quality lead tracking metrics

Connect With Us

Have questions about sales copy and messaging? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic - this week we're diving deeper into sales page strategy!

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #SalesCopy #Copywriting #Messaging #MarketingStrategy #ConversionCopy #BusinessGrowth #MarketingPodcast #SalesStrategy

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Welcome to Season 2 of MAPPED OUT! Lauren and Aurrie are kicking things off with a new format and a deep dive into paid advertising with guest expert David Nipps of NIPPS Media. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of running paid ads or wondered if they're worth the investment, this episode breaks down a VERYYYY practical, approachable framework for success.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:00:33] Welcome back to Season 2 with a brand new format
  • [00:02:12] Introduction to the voice memo guest format and paid ads focus
  • [00:03:38] The non-negotiable nature of paid ads for visibility and growth
  • [00:05:44] Introduction to David Nipps, founder of NIPPS Media
  • [00:06:34] David's three essential mindset shifts for successful paid advertising
  • [00:08:27] Why your audience IS on social media (no matter what you think!)
  • [00:09:28] The three-phase cycle: Ignite, Optimize, and Scale
  • [00:14:25] Vertical vs. horizontal scaling and how to protect your margins
  • [00:17:37] Why measuring daily is critical for learning and pivoting quickly
  • [00:21:27] The importance of creative and messaging in ad performance
  • [00:24:24] Why ad length isn't as important as an engaging hook and story
  • [00:29:11] Real-world testing strategies and funnel optimization
  • [00:31:14] Using automation to track and celebrate conversion wins
  • [00:34:13] B2B vs B2C advertising considerations

What You'll Learn

  • Why viewing ads as an investment (not an expense) changes everything
  • How to test small audiences before scaling your budget
  • The exact formula for increasing your ad spend (15-20% per day)
  • Why conversions require more skill than just getting clicks
  • When to cut underperforming ads and how to duplicate winners
  • The balance between highly produced ads and authentic UGC content
  • Practical metrics to track daily to protect your margins
  • Real examples of ads that maintain audience attention beyond the first few seconds
  • How to optimize landing pages based on ad performance

Meet The Guest

David Nipps

  • Founder of NIPPS Media
  • Expert in paid advertising strategy
  • 3+ years collaborating with Aurrie on successful ad campaigns
  • Website: nippsmedia.com
  • Instagram: @nippsmedia

Resources Mentioned

  • Three-phase ad approach: Ignite, Optimize, Scale
  • Meta Ads Manager
  • Slack automation for conversion tracking
  • ChatGPT for marketing strategy integration
  • Flodesk for email marketing
  • Superhuman for email management

Connect With Us

Have questions about paid advertising? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com to join our email list and get our weekly Flight Deck newsletter every Friday with deeper insights on each episode's topic.

Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #PaidAds #DigitalMarketing #MetaAds #MarketingStrategy #AdStrategy #BusinessGrowth #MarketingPodcast #ROI #ContentCreation

🎯 Mapped Out Moment (Your Homework)

  1. View ads as an investment machine, not an expense. When you see paid advertising as a system that can turn $1 into $5 rather than just another bill, you'll approach scaling with excitement instead of hesitation.
  2. Follow the three-phase cycle: Ignite, Optimize, and Scale. Most businesses fail because they collapse these phases. Start with small tests, cut what doesn't work, and gradually increase spending on the winners.
  3. Measure your ads daily with intention. The businesses that successfully scale with paid ads monitor daily like a ritual, allowing them to learn faster and pivot quickly when performance changes.

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In this week's Flight Deck, we're sharing some of the love we received from season 1, talking about our favorite moments, and giving you a huge sneak peek into what's to come for season 2.

GET ON OUR EMAIL LIST so you don't miss a beat!: www.mappedoutpod.com (in the footer!)

Connect With Us:
@mappedoutpod | mappedoutpod.com

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 130+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Ready for your next marketing destination? Don't forget to subscribe to Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review to help us improve the show!

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In this special season finale, Lauren and Aurrie sit down with Meredith and Melissa of Agency Darlings to discuss how to scale your agency or service-based business on your own terms. The conversation dives deep into the power of niching, lead-gen strategies, and redefining what success looks like for you as a founder beyond traditional growth metrics.

Episode Highlights

[00:07:52] Melissa's perspective on redefining growth beyond traditional agency models
[00:09:36] The founder's compass: Why vision is your North Star for scaling
[00:13:07] Meredith's engagement ring story and how it applies to business vision
[00:17:55] Why social media can be misleading when comparing your growth journey
[00:20:11] The power of transparency in business reporting and benchmarks
[00:22:53] How niching actually expands your business opportunities rather than limiting them
[00:26:01] The essential layers of niching beyond just picking an industry
[00:32:26] A real case study: How niching helped a business grow from $500K to $1.5M
[00:36:02] Why process breakdown is the key indicator it's time to niche
[00:42:42] Recognizing "dream clients" vs settling for any client that comes along
[00:45:50] Confidence and its critical role in scaling your business
[00:50:10] Why relying solely on referrals keeps you stuck in your past
[00:52:11] The 95% statistic every business owner needs to understand about leads

What You'll Learn

  • How to determine if your vision for scaling aligns with your personal values
  • Why traditional agency growth models might not be right for your business
  • How to identify your unique niche based on who you love working with
  • The importance of creating repeatable processes for your ideal clients
  • Why referrals based on your past might be limiting your future growth
  • How to build meaningful relationships with leads who aren't ready to buy yet
  • Practical strategies for weeding out the clients who aren't a good fit

Meet Our SUPER Special Guests

Meredith Fennessey-Witts & Melissa Lohrer

  • Hosts of Agency Darlings podcast
  • Consultants specializing in helping agency owners scale on their own terms
  • Advocates for intentional niching and relationship-driven business growth
  • Website: agencydarlings.com
  • Instagram: @agencydarlings

Resources Mentioned

  • Copper CRM and Lead Generation Playbook (co-created by Melissa)

Connect With Us

Have questions about scaling your agency? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com for more episodes and to connect with us for our next season.

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this season finale!

MappedOutPodcast #AgencyScaling #Niching #BusinessGrowth #AgencyDarlings #ServiceBasedBusiness #LeadGeneration #Scaling #BusinessVision #MarketingStrategy

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Ready for a quick flight? This week, Lauren and Aurrie share their hacks for using AI to simplify marketing processes and how these tools have helped them double their business capacity.

Key Insights:

  • Think smarter, not harder – use AI for tasks you're already doing while multitasking
  • Voice notes to AI can capture fleeting ideas that would otherwise be lost
  • Focus on what's working now before chasing every new AI development
  • Simplifying processes and messaging has been key to scaling businesses
  • Different people are at different stages of AI adoption – find what works for you

Connect With Us:
@mappedoutpod | mappedoutpod.com

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 130+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Ready for your next marketing destination? Don't forget to subscribe to Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review to help us improve the show!

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Is your marketing COMPLETELY drowning in complexity? In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down how to cut through the chaos and create streamlined systems that actually deliver results. From automating client communication to eliminating unnecessary approval steps, you'll learn about practical frameworks for simplifying your operations without sacrificing quality or personal touch. Whether you're running a small business or managing a department in a larger organization, these strategies will help you focus your efforts on what truly matters—and ditch the rest.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:15] The challenges of overcomplicated systems and how they develop over time
[00:04:02] The three-phase approach to simplification: refinement, testing, and scaling
[00:05:31] Why quarterly planning beats annual planning for simplicity
[00:07:16] The 80/20 rule in marketing: focusing on what actually drives results
[00:10:22] When your systems support vs. when they suffocate your team
[00:13:30] The death of content by too many internal reviews
[00:15:22] How automating client ticketing can transform your workflow
[00:17:48] Using AI for complex routing logic and technical solutions
[00:22:51] The importance of team alignment in simplification efforts
[00:28:00] Signs your team is misaligned (and what to do about it)
[00:34:04] Step-by-step framework for simplifying your marketing operations
[00:42:26] Real examples of over-complications that nearly broke us

What You'll Learn

  • How to identify what's broken in your current processes and fix it
  • The danger of reactive marketing and how to push back effectively
  • Why quarterly planning is more efficient than annual forecasting
  • How to create effective SOPs using AI and Loom recordings
  • Ways to automate workflows without losing the personal touch
  • How to identify and eliminate bottlenecks in your processes
  • The right way to conduct project retrospectives
  • When to get on a video call instead of trading written feedback
  • Simple frameworks for auditing your current systems

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Resources Mentioned

  • Berkeley Sweetapple (legal services for online businesses and this week's sponsor! Use code MAPPEDOUT for 25% off contract templates at berkleysweetapple.com)
  • Monday.com
  • ChatGPT
  • Loom
  • Toggle time tracking

Connect With Us

Have questions about simplifying your marketing operations? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com for more episodes and to connect with us.

Share your simplified process diagrams with us by tagging @mappedoutpod using #MappedOutPodcast on social media!

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #MarketingOperations #BusinessSimplification #ProcessOptimization #MarketingStrategy #BusinessEfficiency #OperationsManagement #WorkflowAutomation

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Feeling stuck with limited resources? In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down exactly how to move the needle in your marketing with zero dollars and minimal time. Discover the M.E.R. Mapped Out Method (Messaging, Existing Presence, Relationships) that prioritizes high-impact strategies over expensive campaigns. Whether you're bootstrapping a startup or managing a lean team, you'll learn actionable ways to optimize what you already have before investing in paid marketing.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:01:03] The startling stat: 44% of businesses lack a quantitative understanding of their marketing's impact
  • [00:02:11] Why many businesses struggle to allocate marketing budgets effectively
  • [00:05:31] The M.E.R. Method: Messaging, Existing Presence, Relationships as zero-budget priorities
  • [00:10:15] How to craft a clear pitch that anyone can understand in 5 seconds
  • [00:14:19] Creative call-to-action strategies that actually convert (beyond "Learn More")
  • [00:18:34] Optimizing Google Business Profile for local and AI search visibility
  • [00:21:38] Leveraging existing relationships as your most powerful free marketing tool
  • [00:28:00] Strategic social proof collection that drives conversions
  • [00:35:03] Simple UGC strategies when you're bootstrapping your content
  • [00:37:19] When to start spending and how to determine your first marketing investment
  • [00:41:26] The phased approach to building a sustainable marketing strategy

What You'll Learn

  • How to refine your messaging for maximum impact without spending a dollar
  • The importance of A/B testing your communication across platforms
  • Simple ways to optimize your existing web presence and social profiles
  • Techniques for leveraging past client relationships to drive new business
  • Why strategic partnerships might be your most valuable marketing asset
  • Methods for collecting and utilizing powerful social proof
  • How to develop content without a production budget
  • When it's time to start allocating budget and where to invest first
  • Creating a phased marketing approach that funds itself

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 75+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Connect With Us

Have questions about marketing on a limited budget? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com for more episodes and to connect with us.

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #ZeroBudgetMarketing #BootstrapMarketing #MarketingStrategy #OrganicGrowth #BusinessGrowth #StartupMarketing #SmallBusinessMarketing #ContentStrategy #RelationshipMarketing

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Ready for a quick flight? This week, Lauren and Aurrie dive into personal branding and why becoming your own marketing asset is crucial whether you're a founder, business owner, or marketing team member.

Connect With Us:

@mappedoutpod | mappedoutpod.com

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 130+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Ready for your next marketing destination? Don't forget to subscribe to Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts.

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Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or part of a team, your long-term success comes from positioning yourself as an invaluable asset. In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down how to move beyond simply completing tasks to creating genuine value that makes you irreplaceable. Discover the frameworks, mindsets, and practical strategies that transform you from a vendor into a success partner – without burning yourself out in the process.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:03:14] Hot take: Alignment matters more than skill set in 90% of business relationships
  • [00:10:29] Three levels of value creation: task completion, problem solving, opportunity creation
  • [00:13:17] The anticipation factor: why the most valuable people are proactive, not just responsive
  • [00:15:12] Creating "value receipts" - documenting your impact without self-promotion
  • [00:20:00] The success partner mindset vs. the vendor mindset
  • [00:31:10] The growth rotation strategy: 70% core value, 20% adjacent skills, 10% future trends
  • [00:35:42] Why being the smartest person in the room is never the end goal

What You'll Learn

  • How to identify and communicate your unique value proposition
  • The framework for moving from task completion to opportunity creation
  • Ways to document your impact without awkward self-promotion
  • Strategies for evolving your value as technology and markets change
  • How to recognize when misalignment is creating resentment and toxicity
  • The growth rotation strategy for continuous professional evolution
  • Methods for embedding yourself in client and team success
  • Practical techniques to assess and enhance your irreplaceability

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Resources Mentioned

  • Berkeley Sweetapple (legal services for online businesses, and this week's sponsor! Use code MAPPEDOUT for 25% off contract templates at https://berkleysweetapple.com/)
  • 10X is Easier Than 2X (Book referenced for time-blocking framework)
  • Who Not How (Book mentioned from previous episode)
  • Value receipts (Methodology for documenting impact)
  • ChatGPT (AI tool for executive summaries and content enhancement)

Connect With Us

Have questions about becoming a more valuable asset in your business or for your clients? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com for more episodes and to connect with us.

Share your value statement on LinkedIn and tag us (@mappedoutpod) with #MappedOutPodcast for a chance to win a gift card or future merch!

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #ValueCreation #BusinessStrategy #MarketingStrategy #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #SuccessPartner #ClientRelationships #ValueProposition

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Ready for a quick flight? This week, Lauren and Aurrie take a mid-season break to share three game-changing books that are reshaping their views on business ownership, leadership, and life.

What's On The Radar:

  • Who Not How: Why procrastination isn't laziness but a sign you need the right "who"
  • The Gap and The Gain: Breaking free from gap mentality to celebrate your wins
  • 10X Is Easier Than 2X: How doing less can actually help you achieve exponential growth
  • Reading Recommendations: The suggested reading order for maximum impact

Key Insights:

  • Procrastination signals a need for the right person to help, not a personal failure
  • Finding the right "who" eliminates micromanagement and creates mutual value
  • Your mindset before bed significantly impacts your success the next day
  • High-performing individuals often do less, not more, by focusing on what truly matters
  • Measuring backward (your gains) rather than forward (the gap) transforms your perspective

Map Check:

  1. From 10X Is Easier Than 2X: Identify one task on your to-do list that's keeping you in a 2X mindset and eliminate it
  2. From Who Not How: Choose one thing you're struggling with and ask "who can help me?" instead of "how do I do this?"
  3. From The Gap and The Gain: Write down three wins from the past 90 days to focus on how far you've come

Connect With Us: @mappedoutpod | mappedoutpod.com

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 75+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Ready for your next marketing destination? Don't forget to subscribe to Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts.

Teaser for next episode: Join us to discover how to make yourself the most valuable asset while leading a team or running a business!

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Tired of abandoned content calendars and posts that get three likes from your mom (sweet, but not the target audience right)? In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down how to create a content plan that actually drives results instead of collecting digital dust. They share practical strategies for defining content pillars, focusing on quality over quantity, and planning in 30-day chunks that will save your sanity while keeping your marketing fresh and effective.

Episode Highlights

  • [00:00:32] Introduction to content planning and overcoming shiny object syndrome
  • [00:02:20] Why most content plans fail: they're built for marketers, not actual humans
  • [00:04:04] Breaking free from rigid posting schedules and focusing on quality
  • [00:05:41] Understanding content pillars and how they organize your marketing
  • [00:07:25] Defining your content goals: awareness, engagement, leads, or conversions
  • [00:08:19] The importance of actually knowing your audience (not just thinking you do)
  • [00:13:58] Which metrics actually matter vs. vanity metrics you should ignore
  • [00:18:29] Why email signups are the new currency (and better than followers)
  • [00:22:46] Planning in 30-day chunks to save your sanity and stay strategic
  • [00:31:31] The one core idea, five formats approach to content repurposing
  • [00:34:12] Signs your content plan is a dumpster fire and when to burn it all down
  • [00:38:15] Examples of creative content that drove unexpected results

What You'll Learn

  • How to define meaningful content pillars that drive your business goals
  • Why quality trumps quantity when it comes to content creation
  • The truth about metrics that matter vs. vanity metrics
  • How to speak directly to your audience instead of talking to yourself
  • Methods for planning content in 30-day chunks instead of chaotic weekly plans
  • Strategies for repurposing one piece of content into multiple formats
  • Warning signs that your content strategy isn't working
  • Why being consistent matters more than being perfect

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Resources Mentioned

  • Berkeley Sweetapple (legal services for online businesses, and this week’s sponsor! Use code MAPPEDOUT for 25% off your contract templates at https://berkleysweetapple.com/)
  • Many Chats (automated DM program)

Connect With Us

Have questions about your content marketing? Our DMs are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com for more episodes and to connect with us. Tag us in your content (@mappedoutpod) and we'll repost it!

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #ContentMarketing #ContentStrategy #MarketingTips #ContentPlan #ContentCreation #SocialMediaMarketing #BusinessGrowth #MarketingStrategy #DigitalMarketing

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Ready for a quick flight? This week, Lauren and Aurrie share examples of how consistent marketing pays off—even when you think no one's listening.

What's On The Radar:

  • Eight-Year ROI: How one prospect finally converted after following Brand Good Time for 8 years
  • Content Consistency: Why you shouldn't give up on your newsletter, even with minimal engagement
  • Repetition Works: The importance of repeating key messages (even when you're sick of saying them)
  • The Full Funnel: Exploring client retention and lifetime value on the other side of the marketing funnel

Key Insights:

  • People may be engaging with your content even when they're not actively responding
  • It can take multiple touchpoints for your message to sink in—most people are just skimming!
  • Don't assume everyone remembers your previous content—repetition is powerful
  • Sometimes the biggest opportunities are with existing clients, not just new acquisition

Map Check:

Go back six months, assess your top-performing content, and find ways to repurpose it. That social carousel that performed well? Turn it into a reel, static post, or video content. Keep consistent with your content for the next 90 days and watch what happens.

Connect With Us:

@mappedoutpod | mappedoutpod.com

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 130+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Ready for your next marketing destination? Don't forget to subscribe to Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts.

Teaser for next week: Join us for a deep dive into content marketing strategies!

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Ever feel like you're doing everything and not getting leads? In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down the entire marketing funnel from top to bottom, sharing real examples that show exactly how brands move customers from awareness to purchase—and beyond. Whether you're struggling with brand awareness, nurturing leads, or turning one-time buyers into repeat customers, we've got your map to navigate each stage of the funnel.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:11] Why the funnel still matters (despite what "new age" marketers say)
[00:02:15] Viewing your funnel as an hourglass (what happens after purchase)
[00:04:32] Top of funnel strategies: Focus on awareness, knowledge, and interest
[00:08:12] How many touchpoints it really takes before conversion (hint: 6-8 is on the low end)
[00:11:23] Middle of funnel deep dive: Nurturing leads who know you exist
[00:14:34] Creative lead magnets that actually work in 2025 (beyond basic downloads)
[00:19:50] Retargeting strategies that move people through your funnel
[00:21:19] The real conversion rates you should expect at each funnel stage
[00:26:11] Bottom of funnel: Turning transactions into experiences
[00:33:17] Why retention marketing deserves more of your attention
[00:40:02] How to measure success at each funnel stage
[00:44:00] Warning signs your funnel is broken (and how to fix it)

What You'll Learn

  • How the marketing funnel applies to both B2B and B2C businesses
  • Why your audience might need up to 21 touchpoints before converting
  • The difference between top, middle, and bottom funnel tactics
  • Creative lead magnet ideas beyond standard PDF downloads
  • How to use journey-focused content that segments your audience
  • Why community building is critical for retention
  • Real metrics to track at each funnel stage
  • Signs your funnel is broken and how to fix it
  • How to simplify an overcomplicated marketing funnel

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Resources Mentioned

  • Brand Checklist and Messaging Guidelines Document
  • Video Ask (chatbot tool)
  • Little Sleepies (customer community example)
  • Goody (gifting platform example)
  • Hiya Vitamins (customer experience example)
  • Wild Bird (touchpoint example)

Connect With UsHave questions about your marketing funnel? Our DMs and emails are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com to submit your questions for our Flight Deck segment where we'll dive deeper into your specific funnel challenges.

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #MarketingFunnel #CustomerJourney #MarketingStrategy #LeadGeneration #CustomerRetention #BusinessGrowth #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast #SalesConversion

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Ready for a quick flight? This week, Aurrie's flying solo while Lauren's on vacation to break down the AI summary tools that are revolutionizing how we capture and use information.

What's On The Radar:

  • Meeting Transcripts & Recaps: Deep dive into Otter and Fathom for automated meeting notes
  • Content Repurposing: How PodSqueeze transforms long-form content into social-ready clips
  • Time-Saving Tips: Ways to free up your team from unnecessary note-taking

Resources Mentioned:

  • Fathom
  • Otter
  • PodSqueeze
  • Claude

Today's flight is brought to you by Juliet Wine. Ready to check all the boxes with sustainable, female-founded wine that contains zero sugar per glass? Visit DrinkJuliet.com and use code MAPPEDOUT for 15% off your purchase. No corkscrew, no pressure - Juliet is always ready to pour when you are!

Map Check:

AI summaries = less busy work, more focus. Start by auditing your workflow to see where these tools could make your collaboration smoother.

Connect With Us: @mappedoutpod mappedoutpod.com

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto
Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks
Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 130+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Ready for your next marketing destination? Don't forget to subscribe to Mapped Out wherever you get your podcasts.

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Lost in the tech tools maze? We've got your map! In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down exactly what tools you need (and don't need) to run an efficient marketing operation. From project management essentials to AI tools worth the investment, we're sharing our real-world experience with building tech stacks that actually work.

Episode Highlights[00:01:18] The evolution from basic tools to robust tech stacks

[00:03:55] The real cost of tech tools (what we actually spend monthly)

[00:08:34] Project management tools that are worth the investment

[00:20:43] ROI measurement: When tools replace admin work

[00:37:22] The truth about contractors vs. employees

[00:42:00] Team tech-adoption techniques that actually work

[00:54:13] When (and how) to break up with a tool

[00:59:32] Our biggest tech wins and fails

What You'll Learn

  • Why going "free only" with tools will limit your growth
  • How to build an efficient tech ecosystem that scales
  • The exact tools we use for project management, client communication, and team collaboration
  • Real numbers on tech stack investment (we spend $1000-1500/month!)
  • How to avoid common tech stack mistakes
  • Practical ways to measure tool ROI
  • Smart strategies for training teams on new tools

Today's Episode Sponsor: Copper

Transform your sales process with Copper CRM! Use code MAPPEDOUT for 15% off your first year of an annual plan at copper.com.

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Expert in content marketing and web design
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • Expert in digital content and brand strategy
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae

Resources Mentioned

  • Monday.com
  • Slack
  • Google Drive
  • HoneyBook
  • Calendly
  • ChatGPT
  • Claude
  • Copper CRM
  • Dashlane
  • Toggl
  • Gusto
  • Grammarly

Connect With Us

Join the conversation and share your tech stack wins with us! Tag us using #MappedOutPodcast and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode.

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #MarketingTools #TechStack #BusinessTech #MarketingStrategy #AgencyLife #BusinessGrowth #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast #ProductivityTools

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Welcome back to MAPPED OUT! In this episode of The Flight Deck, our 10-minute minisode, we’re answering your burning questions about the 30/60/90-day framework. This structured approach helps you set marketing goals by quarter and execute with clarity. Whether you're fine-tuning your organic social strategy, launching paid ads, or refining your email marketing, we’ll guide you step-by-step through the process.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00:16] Recap: 30/60/90-day framework overview
  • [00:01:11] Why you need to download the 30/60/90 framework chart
  • [00:02:21] Setting marketing goals: Organic social, email marketing, SEO, partnerships, and paid ads
  • [00:03:43] How to break down goals into needle-moving efforts, maintain, build, tweak, test, and parking lot
  • [00:07:36] Why organic social media consistency is key
  • [00:08:59] The build phase: Crafting an effective email marketing funnel
  • [00:11:35] How to tweak and optimize your email marketing strategy
  • [00:14:28] Testing & the parking lot method: Honoring bandwidth while prioritizing strategy
  • [00:15:41] What’s next? Mastering the marketing funnel

What You'll Learn:

  • How to create a structured 30/60/90-day marketing plan
  • The difference between needle-moving efforts and maintenance tasks
  • How to strategically build and tweak your marketing initiatives
  • The importance of testing and tracking marketing performance
  • How to prioritize new ideas without getting overwhelmed

Meet Your Hosts:

👩‍💻 Lauren Loreto
Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise with bold, strategic marketing.

  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

👩‍💻 Aurrie Hicks
Founder of Hopson Rae, Aurrie has over a decade of experience developing marketing strategies and managing brand identities for 130+ clients.

  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks

Resources Mentioned:

  • 📌 Download the 30/60/90 Framework Chart: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10wYzPEWwh6R4xGEjjKoqvTuyCxlzO3DjH6YNrAGWDdc/copy

🎯 MAPPED OUT Moment (Your Homework!)

Before your next team meeting, do this:

✅ Download the 30/60/90 framework chart
✅ Identify one needle-moving effort for the next 30 days
✅ Categorize your current marketing efforts into maintain, build, tweak, test, or parking lot

Connect With Us:

Join the conversation and share your marketing journey with us! Tag us on Instagram @mappedoutpod using #MappedOutPodcast and let us know your biggest takeaways. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review – your feedback helps us continue delivering value-packed episodes!

📩 Questions? Topic requests? DM us @mappedoutpod!

MappedOutPodcast #MarketingGoals #BusinessStrategy #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #GoalSetting #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship

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When your ideas are tapped out, we've got more! Welcome to the FIRST episode of MAPPED OUT – your GPS to breakthrough growth. In this premiere episode, we're diving deep into the world of goal-setting that actually moves the needle for your business.

Episode Highlights

[00:00:01] Welcome to Mapped Out - Your marketing GPS

[00:01:42] Meet Lauren: Founder of Brand Good Time, content marketing & web design expert

[00:02:34] Meet Aurrie: Founder of Hopson Rae, bringing corporate & agency expertise

[00:03:30] The serendipitous Instagram connection that started it all

[00:08:11] Why most marketing goals fail (hint: it's not about ambition)

[00:11:08] Using AI as your team member, not your crutch

[00:20:43] The game-changing framework: Needle Moving Matrix

[00:24:17] How to gamify your business goals with a Bingo strategy

[00:28:53] Building the plane while flying it: an actionable example

[00:37:22] When to "fire fast" on failing strategies

What You'll Learn

  • Why traditional goal-setting often fails and how to fix it
  • How to connect marketing KPIs to real business outcomes
  • A practical framework for organizing your marketing priorities
  • Creative ways to maintain team accountability
  • Crisis-proofing your marketing strategy
  • How to pivot without losing momentum

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

  • Founder of Brand Good Time
  • Specializes in content marketing and web design
  • Takes a full-funnel approach to marketing
  • Website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
  • LinkedIn: in/laurenloreto

Aurrie Hicks

  • Founder of Hopson Rae
  • 7+ years of agency ownership
  • Expert in digital content, organic social media, and branding
  • Website: hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram: @hopsonrae
  • LinkedIn: in/aurriehicks

Resources Mentioned

  • 10X is Easier Than 2X (Book reference)
  • ChatGPT
  • Claude AI

Connect With UsJoin the conversation and share your marketing journey with us! Tag us on IG @mappedoutpod using #MappedOutPodcast and let us know your biggest takeaways from this episode.

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts, and don't forget to leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

MappedOutPodcast #MarketingGoals #BusinessStrategy #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #GoalSetting #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship

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When your ideas are tapped out, we've got more. Welcome to MAPPED OUT – your GPS to breakthrough growth, minus the headaches.

Ready for some serious support on your marketing journey? Meet your new co-pilots: Lauren and Aurrie. As seasoned marketers and business owners, we're here to help you cut through the noise and make powerful decisions that drive real growth. No fluff, no theoretical nonsense – just actionable strategies and a clear itinerary for mapping out your exact coordinates for your next big win.

What You'll Discover

  • Why traditional marketing advice often leaves you feeling lost
  • How MAPPED OUT approaches marketing differently with practical, implementable strategies (not just theories)
  • What to expect in future episodes: templates, tools, and tactical advice
  • Who this podcast is perfect for: founders, marketers, and brand leaders ready to scale

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto - Founder of Brand Good Time, Lauren specializes in helping disruptive, founder-led brands break through the noise. With almost 10 years of agency experience and a keen eye for untapped potential, she's helped countless brands transform from "profitable and growing" to "scaling successfully."

Aurrie Hicks - Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Aurrie brings over a decade of experience in branding, marketing, and strategy. As the founder of Hopson Rae, she's developed winning strategies and managed brand identities for 130+ clients, combining corporate experience with entrepreneurial insight.

Connect With Us

  • Lauren:
    • Website: brandgoodtime.com
    • Instagram: @brandgoodtime
    • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto
    • Pinterest: pinterest.com/brandgoodtime
  • Aurrie:
    • Website: hopsonrae.com
    • Instagram: @hopsonrae
    • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/aurriehicks
    • Pinterest: pinterest.com/hopsonrae

Ready to Map Out Your Success Story?

Subscribe now wherever you get your podcasts and join us for relatable conversations, fresh perspectives, and tools you can implement right away. Your journey to better marketing starts here.

MappedOutPodcast #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #MarketingPodcast #BusinessPodcast

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Special episode drop (breaking the hitatus). We went to IBOUND 2024 so you didn't have to :P In this episode, hosts Lauren and Aurrie recap their experiences at the INBOUND marketing conference. Lauren, founder of Brand Good Time, and Aurrie, founder of Hopson Ray, share key insights from sessions on B2B LinkedIn ads, AI in content creation, and email marketing strategies. The episode offers actionable strategies for marketers to enhance their efforts going into 2025 and beyond.

Timestamps:

  • Best Practices for B2B LinkedIn Ads (00:04:03)
  • Insights from a LinkedIn Paid Ads Agency (00:05:08)
  • Creative Content for B2B (00:07:26)
  • Using AI in Content Creation (00:09:34)
  • Effective Call-to-Action Buttons (00:11:15)
  • AI Trigger Words in Emails (00:12:48)
  • Preparing for 2025 Trends (00:14:34)
  • Apple Email Update (00:17:05)
  • Neil Patel on Content Marketing (00:18:13)
  • The Shift from SEO to Search Everywhere Optimization (00:20:08)
  • Maximizing Content Strategy (00:22:57)
  • Marketing Funnel Insights (00:26:33)
  • Brand Competition and Customer Sharing (00:29:10)
  • Creative Content and B2B Engagement (00:30:08)
  • Humor in B2B Marketing (00:32:52)
  • Color Psychology in Branding (00:34:07)
  • Thought Leadership on LinkedIn (00:36:27)
  • Effective Storytelling in Ads (00:38:20)
  • CMO Insights on Organizational Goals (00:41:28)
  • Repurposing Webinars with AI (00:44:32)
  • Launching Products on Social Media (00:46:24)
  • Hacking the Instagram Algorithm (00:47:08)

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Find Aurrie Hicks online:

  • https://www.hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

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When was the last time you paused to consider how your well-being affects your work? Ashleigh Hubbard joins Lauren Loreto in a heart-to-heart about the symbiotic relationship between personal health and professional success. This chat traverses their personal evolutions: Lauren's pivot from the weightlifting circuit to the entrepreneurial fast track and Ashleigh's impressive leap from a non-athletic past to a weightlifting present. Ashleigh and Lauren dissect the nature of motivation, from external prompts to the deeply personal internal drive, and how it can sharpen our mental acuity and sustain our passion for our work. They swap notes on how simple starts with exercise and a solid grasp on our 'why' can revolutionize both our productivity and sense of satisfaction.

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Find Ashleigh Hubbard online:

  • www.ahubnutrition.com
  • https://www.instagram.com/ashleighmariehubbard/
  • https://www.instagram.com/ahubnutrition/

Timestamps:

  • Ashleigh's journey and background (00:01:13) A
  • Entrepreneurs and the "busyness" mindset (00:06:18)
  • Motivation and fitness (00:10:21)
  • Challenges and setbacks in maintaining wellness (00:16:01)
  • Balanced dietary recommendations (00:19:59)
  • Proper Nutrition and Meal Planning (00:21:02)
  • Creative Meal Ideas and Variety (00:22:06)
  • Planning Ahead and Batch Prepping (00:30:00)
  • Neutral Mindset and Relationship with Food (00:34:44)

Topics discussed: wellness, business success, entrepreneurs, healthy lifestyle, motivation, fitness, balanced nutrition, energy levels, self-care, mindset, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, sleep, physical activity, balanced meals, protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, mindful eating, meal planning, batch prepping, neutral mindset, A-Hub Nutrition, The Wellness Diaries, social media

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Ever wondered how the emotional pull of a well-told story can transform your brand's presence? Emmy award-winning filmmaker Mariana Henninger joins us to reveal just that. Through her lens, we discover how to harness personal tales that foster trust and prompt action—crucial ingredients for any business looking to make a lasting impact.

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Find Mariana online:

  • http://brandmagnetic.com
  • http://instagram.com/brandmagnetic
  • http://linkedin.com/in/marianahenninger

Timestamps:

  • Mariana's background and Brand Magnetic (00:03:23)
  • The power of brand video (00:06:06)
  • Maximizing exposure of brand video (00:15:48)
  • The longevity of brand videos (00:19:32)
  • Client results and metrics (00:20:46)
  • Organic marketing and paid advertising (00:24:28)
  • The brand video creation process (00:27:59)
  • Preparation and comfort in front of the camera (00:32:19)

Topics discussed: podcast, She's Busy AF, Lauren, Mariana Henninger, Emmy award-winning filmmaker, Brand Magnetic, brand video, storytelling, emotional connection, trust, marketing tool, audience, sales cycle, customer loyalty, unique, social media, email signatures, website homepage, about page, website visitors, brand success

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Have you ever been struck by lightning—metaphorically speaking, of course? That's the jolt of inspiration you'll feel when you hear Erin, improv virtuoso and empathetic leadership guru, recount her leap from the corporate grind to the founder of her own company, Improve It. Our chat brims with laughter and sage advice, as we talk about why empathetic communication isn't just nice to have, but a critical skill across all levels of business—whether you're captaining a team, dealing with clients, or flying solo. Erin's journey through the improv world and her spontaneous spirit—best illustrated by her whimsical "The Price is Right" escapade—will leave you pondering the poignant connection between a zest for life and professional success.

Find Erin Diehl Online:

  • itserindiehl.com
  • learntoimproveit.com
  • @itserindiehl on Instagram
  • Erin Diehl on LinkedIn
  • PURCHASE HER BOOK, I SEE YOU: https://www.itserindiehl.com/i-see-you

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Erin's background (00:01:21)
  • Personal anecdotes and the impact of childhood experiences (00:04:35)
  • The impact of frequent relocations on personal growth (00:06:15)
  • Erin's journey to creating Improve It (00:13:31)
  • The significance of improv and overcoming fears (00:17:48)
  • Radical Empathy as a Leader (00:22:02)
  • Negative Listening Patterns and Empathy (00:27:31)
  • Where to Find Erin’s Book and Staying Connected (00:37:10)

Topics Discussed: Lauren Loreto, podcast, She's Busy AF, Brand Good Time, content marketing, web development, Erin Diehl, business improv educator, Improve It, keynote speaker, empathetic leadership, professional development, comedy, experiential learning, background, experiences, insights, improv, personal growth, childhood experiences, challenges, adaptability, authenticity, community, college experience, Clemson University, aspirations, broadcast journalism, Chicago, Second City, Improve It, professional development company, acting classes, theater, leadership, radical empathy, book, communication skills, effective communication workshop, negative listening patterns, IQ, leader, burnout, recalibrate, healing journey.

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We've talked up and down about how to use AI in marketing, but what about to create more efficiencies in overall business operations? On this episode of She's Busy AF, Lauren brought on Weston Ferguson, COO of McGraw (a growth agency), to dissect the role of AI in reshaping business operations. They chat about how AI tools like ChatGPT are not only simplifying HR processes but also fostering a climate of innovation and efficiency that amplifies human talent rather than replacing it. They chat about the delicate balance between technology and the human touch, exchange stories and strategies for conducting tech stack assessments, and reflect on the sobering responsibilities of data management, ensuring client trust remains unshaken.

Find Weston online:

  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/westonferguson/

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Common Misconceptions about AI in the Workplace (00:04:16)
  • Role of Operations and AI Integration (00:06:29)
  • Impact of AI on Productivity and Performance & Its Challenges (00:09:39)
  • AI Implementation Examples (00:16:06)
  • Ethical Considerations and Data Privacy (00:18:32)
  • Selecting AI Tools for Business (00:20:30)
  • Ethical considerations in AI usage (00:31:29)
  • Accessibility of AI tools (00:36:03)

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Strapped for cash but overflowing with ambition? In this episode, I'm talking through marketing strategies that don’t require a Scrooge McDuck vault of gold to get started. This is a quick and simple guide to cost-effective growth, and in this episode of She's Busy AF, I break down how to expand your reach from zero to hero with a budget that's less 'Wolf of Wall Street' and more 'Babe the Blue Ox'. Join me as we explore the nooks and crannies of guerrilla marketing, where hustle meets strategy, and where every penny—or lack thereof—is put to work. Forget what you thought you knew about marketing; it’s time to get busy, get creative, and grow with tactics that are as affordable as they are effective.

CHECK OUT OUR 90 DAY PLAN SERVICE: https://brandgoodtime.com/90-day-plans

Find Lauren Loreto/Brand Good Time online:

  • Our website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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Ever wondered how thought leadership can transform your brand's reach and reputation? Lexie Smith, the brain behind GROWTH MODE Agency, THEPRBAR, inc., and the Pitchin' and Sippin' podcast, joins me, Lauren Loreto, for an illuminating chat on this very topic. Together, we dissect the art of pairing expertise with branding to not only attract leads but to also catapult businesses into their next level of growth. Lexie's journey of rebranding her company underscores the dynamic nature of PR and offers a wealth of inspiration for founders eager to cast themselves as the go-to experts in their field.

Find Lexie Online

  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-smith-pr/
  • https://theprbarinc.com/
  • https://growthmodeagency.com/
  • https://www.instagram.com/theprbar_inc/
  • Check out GROWTH MODE Agency: https://www.growthmodeagency.com/

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • The importance of thought leadership (00:01:33)
  • Benefits and components of thought leadership (00:09:00)
  • Developing a strong positioning statement (00:10:02)
  • Incorporating personal stories into thought leadership (00:15:22)
  • Selecting the right channels for thought leadership (00:16:30)
  • Challenges in prioritizing personal brand and thought leadership (00:20:37)
  • Writing for Thought Leadership (00:23:15)
  • Leveraging Platforms for Thought Leadership (00:25:18)
  • Pitching Topics to Outlets (00:29:13)
  • Conversion from Articles to Leads (00:32:09)
  • Trends in Thought Leadership (00:37:20)

Topics discussed: Lauren Loreto, Brand Good Time, marketing agency, content marketing, web design, development, podcast, She's Busy AF, Lexie Smith, Pitchin' and Sippin' podcast, PR Bar Inc, top 20 in their 20s, brilliant PR expert, top female entrepreneur, trailblazer women leader, Growth Mode PR, Communications Agency, rebranding, positioning statement, thought leadership strategy, owned channels, earned channels, target audience, personal brand development, marketing, PR, synergy, authenticity, relatability, benefits of thought leadership, successful thought leadership strategy, challenges, opportunities, sustainability, building personal brand, leads, commitment, accountability, authoring articles, third-party outlets, HARO, Qwoted, journalists, pitching, educational content, earned media, paid contributor programs, AI, content creation, LinkedIn.

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On this episode of "She's Busy AF," we're diving into the topic of website conversions (in a totally fun and ready-to-test way). Tune in for actionable advice on boosting conversion rates for both e-commerce and service-based businesses and learn more about the importance of data in shaping business strategies.

HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR WEBSITE CONVERSION RATE VISUAL EXAMPLE: https://www.loom.com/share/8b35507602ff486aa72aa701d81c5682

Find Lauren Loreto/Brand Good Time online:

  • Our website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps

  • The importance of understanding data (00:00:17)
  • Understanding website conversion rates (00:02:21)
  • Optimizing website conversion rates (00:04:37)
  • Visual cues and user experience (00:12:46)

Topics discussedwebsite conversions, e-commerce, service-based businesses, marketing agency, data, user experience, storytelling, content marketing, web design, development, conversion rate, website traffic, service providers, e-commerce businesses, conversion goals, compelling story, calls to action, user testing, web audits, business success, website strategies, optimization.

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When you’re scaling a service-based business, client experience and operations must be many things: highly optimized, functional, streamlined, and processed. Client experience: because retention is everything. Operations: because you want nothing to fall through the cracks. On this episode of She’s Busy AF, Bella Hegarty joins Lauren to talk about the importance of both of these things. With her background in travel, hospitality, and operations consulting, Bella shares challenges brands face – such as maintaining quality while scaling, and the need for standardized processes. Lauren and Bella chat about the significance of client feedback, tracking metrics, and creating predictable scaling strategies. Tune in for a deep dive!

Find Bella online:

  • https://bellahegartydigital.com
  • https://linkedin.com/in/bella-hegarty-digital
  • https://instagram.com/bellahegartydigital

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Introduction to Client Experience and Operations (00:00:15)
  • Common Challenges in Quality Delivery and Scaling (00:07:05)
  • Standardized Processes for Service Delivery (00:08:55)
  • Creating Predictability in Scaling Process (00:15:53)
  • Smooth Onboarding of Clients and Team Members (00:17:56)
  • Tools for Streamlining Operations (00:20:07)
  • Time Tracking and Data Insights (00:21:42)
  • Measuring Client Experience Success (00:26:32)
  • Enhancing Customer Experience (00:31:16)
  • Importance of Client Feedback (00:36:20)
  • Strategic Partnerships and Exit Strategy (00:38:57)
  • Long-Term Client Support (00:41:56)
  • Understanding Client Expectations (00:42:08)
  • Challenges in Service-Based Businesses (00:43:12)
  • Closing Remarks (00:45:02)

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As I, Lauren Loreto, mark the third anniversary of "She's Busy AF," I'm taking a moment to reflect and celebrate the defining moments and lessons from my entrepreneurial journey. From the seeds of ambition planted by my parents to the inception of my first marketing agency, I've been on quite the path that has led to the creation of Brand Good Time. It's truly been a wild ride of building, scaling, and selling businesses. Hear how these experiences have shaped my understanding of work-life balance, my foray into the transformative world of remote work culture, and the surprising twists that brought Brand Good Time to life during a global pandemic.

This episode isn't just a trip down memory lane—it's packed with valuable insights for every business owner and aspiring entrepreneur. I dive into the nitty-gritty of HR compliance and how it's redefining our team dynamics and service offerings, and I get real about gearing up for maternity leave while keeping the business thriving. With a fresh focus on content marketing, strategy, and web development, we're paving a clearer path for growth. For those of you wearing the entrepreneurial hat, there's plenty of encouragement and wisdom on offer, from the significance of strategic investment to the camaraderie found among business-owning mothers. Join me as I share these stories and more, all with the hope of inspiring and empowering you to turn every situation into a 'good time'.

Find Lauren Loreto/Brand Good Time online:

  • Our website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • The backstory (00:03:19)
  • Early career experiences (00:07:48)
  • Founding Brand Good Time (00:12:33)
  • Pivoting the Agency (00:18:05)
  • Balancing Motherhood and Business (00:19:58)
  • Scaling the Agency (00:20:58)
  • HR Compliance and Culture (00:25:00)
  • Future Plans and Service Offerings (00:26:57)
  • Reflection and Advice (00:29:04)

Topics Discussed:Lauren Loreto, She's Busy AF podcast, Brand Good Time, entrepreneurship, business owner, career experiences, upbringing, pivotal moments, influences, entrepreneurial path, corporate world, freelance opportunities, toxic work environments, marketing agency, LBMG Marketing, burnout, mentorship, remote work culture, rebranding, web design, Showit, resilience, adaptability, mentorship program, motherhood, mompreneur, business growth, team building, HR practices, maternity leave, content marketing, strategic investments, LinkedIn, business development

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In this episode of She's Busy AF, Melissa Lohrer, a seasoned expert in business development, shares game-changing insights to redefine your agency's growth strategy. We delve into the delicate balance between scaling and sustainability, with Melissa offering personalized guidance honed from her extensive experience. From prioritizing client relationships over numbers to leveraging unconventional approaches like consults and VIP days, we explore the path to a stronger, more resilient agency model. Discover the transformative power of referral partnerships and founder-led sales, essential for fostering enduring connections in the industry. Join us for a masterclass on revolutionizing your agency into a dynamic, profitable enterprise.

Find Melissa online:

  • Waverlyave.com
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-lohrer-49052015/
  • https://www.instagram.com/waverlyave.consulting/

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Melissa's journey (00:01:27)
  • Profitability of an agency (00:06:46)
  • Cultivating new business through referrals (00:14:25)
  • Ideal client and niche focus (00:19:48)
  • Finding the Right People on LinkedIn (00:21:56)
  • Networking and Referral Partnerships (00:22:51)
  • Investing in Relationship Building (00:25:10)
  • Building Strong Strategic Partnerships (00:27:27)
  • Founder-Led Sales and Business Development (00:34:49)
  • Relationship Building for Sales Success (00:38:13)
  • Biz Dev Challenges (00:43:24)
  • Effective Outreach (00:44:27)

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Our “SuperBowl” as marketers? The commercials for the SuperBowl. In this episode, Lauren brings on two of her team members: Mack (BGT's Marketing Manager) and Hannah (BGT's Content Manager) to go through the best and the worst of the SuperBowl ads from 2024. They're dissecting not just from a consumer POV, but a marketer's POV, and sharing what brands can learn from these campaigns (and tactics we were impressed/surprised to see!)

Find Lauren Loreto/Brand Good TIme online:

  • Our website: brandgoodtime.com
  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • The introduction (00:00:00)
  • Discussion of the star-studded Super Bowl and demographics (00:02:47)
  • Analyzing the Wicked trailer (00:03:02)
  • Snapchat ad critique (00:08:23)
  • Discussion of the Jesus commercials (00:11:12)
  • Etsy's "Gift Mode" ad (00:17:52) T
  • The Paramount commercial (00:18:49)
  • Teemu ads and potential targeting of Amazon (00:22:23)
  • Pluto TV's couch potato farms ad (00:26:05)
  • Google Pixel ad for visually impaired (00:27:54)
  • Verizon Beyonce ad (00:30:23)
  • Uber Eats ad disappointment (00:34:33)
  • Homes.com ad series (00:36:35)
  • T-Mobile Magenta Member Ad (00:39:22)
  • Favorite and Least Favorite Ads (00:41:12)
  • Super Bowl and Halftime Show (00:43:10)
  • Overall Impressions (00:45:07)

Topics Discussed: podcast, She's Busy AF, Super Bowl commercials, Wicked, demographics, Broadway, Taylor Swift, celebrities, advertising, marketing, full funnel, Service, Michael Sarah, Etsy, Google Pixel, Verizon, Beyoncé, Uber Eats, Homes.com, T-Mobile, Paramount, Arnold, Christopher Walken, BMW, Popeye's, Google, halftime show, Usher, Ludacris, Alicia Keys, roller skate ring, technology, sleep deprivation

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Ever wondered how service-based businesses can tap into the power of paid social advertising? Marketing expert Lauren Ellis joins us to dismantle the myth that social ads are a playground solely for product-based ventures. With a treasure trove of insights, she guides us through leveraging these strategies to catapult your reach and meticulously track your ROI. Lauren's own leap from the structured world of agency work to the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship underpins our conversation, as she shares how a potent mix of strategy, brand strength, and a compelling website can turn social platforms into client magnets.

Find Lauren Ellis online:

  • www.createsocialco.org
  • www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-swirbul-ellis
  • https://www.instagram.com/createsocialco/

Find Lauren Loreto online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Lauren Ellis' Background (00:01:41)
  • Misconceptions About Social Ads (00:04:45)
  • Marketing Funnel and Ad Campaigns (00:06:56)
  • Role of Retargeting in Social Ads (00:10:20)
  • Creating Compelling Content for Social Ads (00:14:22)
  • Determining Platform and Timing for Ads (00:19:58)
  • Timing and Seasonal Considerations (00:21:09)
  • Effective Calls to Action (00:22:29)
  • Buyer Types and Relationship Building (00:25:32)
  • Maximizing ROI on Social Ad Spend (00:28:07)

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In, or approaching, a scale phase in your business? In the growth mode of a business, chaos is almost welcomed. Chaos is where you figure A LOT of things out. But what about when you get to scale mode - when you're ready to take your proven product and 10x your abilities to offer it? In this episode of "She's Busy AF," host Lauren speaks with Caitlyn Wells, founder of Upwell Strategies, about the critical role of systems and processes in scaling a business. They discuss the challenges of scaling without proper systems, the benefits of project management tools, and the importance of clear communication platforms.

Find Caitlyn online:

  • www.upwellstrategies.com
  • https://www.instagram.com/upwellstrategies/
  • https://www.facebook.com/upwellstrategies
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlyn-t-wells/

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Caitlyn's background and passion (00:02:24)
  • The role of systems in business growth (00:03:45)
  • Challenges without effective systems (00:05:30)
  • Impactful systems for scaling a business (00:06:19) C
  • Favorite project management systems (00:06:51)
  • Balancing systems with creative flow (00:11:52)
  • Continuous improvement of systems (00:15:20)
  • Must-Have Tools for Scaling a Business (00:22:39)
  • The Importance of Implementing Systems Early (00:24:33)

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Want the lowdown on 2024 marketing trends? In this episode, Lauren discusses the future of marketing, applicable to all business ages, stages and sizes. We're covering: social media marketing, web design, marketing operations and overall strategy trends for 2024. Whether you're a B2B or B2C brand, it's imperative you know what's trending across the board - this episode will help you do just THAT!

SUBSCRIBE TO THE BRAND GOOD TIMES: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64e7c2d0f354e0ede26ee72a

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Social Media Marketing Trends (00:02:08)
  • Web Design and Development Trends (00:06:20)
  • Marketing Operations Trends (00:10:24)
  • B2B and B2C Strategy Trends (00:14:17)

Topics discussed:marketing trends, predictions, 2024, social media marketing, long-form video content, storytelling, closed captions, edutainment content, web design, 3D design, experiential UI, marketing operations, AI, relationship building, B2B businesses, B2C businesses

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If you haven’t considered awards as a part of your brand’s PR strategy - you SHOULD! In this podcast episode, host Lauren Loreto interviews Alison Meyer about utilizing awards as a PR strategy for brand visibility. Alison, with extensive experience in marketing and PR, explains the benefits of awards for brand visibility and credibility. They discuss the nomination process, the importance of aligning awards with business achievements, and the broader benefits of winning, such as increased visibility and networking opportunities. Allison offers practical advice on applying for awards, choosing the right ones, and being strategic about the process. The episode is a guide for business owners on using awards to enhance their brand's reputation and recognition.

Find Alison online:

  • Indigocomms.com
  • Indigocomms.com/database
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-meyer-775a105/
  • https://www.instagram.com/indigo_communication/

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps

  • Alison’s journey to entrepreneurship (00:01:55)
  • The value of pursuing awards (00:04:14)
  • Qualifying for awards (00:10:27)
  • Tangible benefits of awards (00:13:55)
  • Types of award-giving entities (00:16:30)
  • Steps to pursue awards (00:19:12)
  • Simplifying the Award Application Process (00:20:28)
  • Telling a Compelling Story (00:20:56)
  • Efficiency and Reusability of Content (00:24:08)
  • Considerations for Pursuing Awards (00:26:08)
  • Assessing Budget and Visibility (00:25:11)
  • Finding Available Awards (00:29:29)
  • Working with Indigo Comms (00:31:43)

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Hire internally... or externally? That is the question! In this episode of "She's Busy AF," host Lauren Loreto explores the decision-making process behind whether a brand should hire internally for marketing efforts or outsource to external agencies. She emphasizes the importance of considering the business's growth and scaling phases, cost, expertise, flexibility, resource allocation, risk mitigation, scalability, and collaboration. Lauren discusses when in-house hiring vs. outsourced hiring might be more effective. This episode aims to provide brands with insights to make informed choices that align with their development stage and marketing needs.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE BRAND GOOD TIMES: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64e7c2d0f354e0ede26ee72a

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Growth Phase vs Scaling Phase (00:00:17)
  • Cost Implications (00:01:25)
  • Expertise and Specialization (00:02:35)
  • Flexibility and Agility (00:03:40)
  • Resource Allocation (00:04:40)
  • Risk Mitigation (00:05:47)
  • Scalability (00:06:52)
  • Collaboration and Integration (00:07:56)

Topics discussed: brand, hire internally, outsource, marketing, growth phase, scaling phase, considerations, cost, expertise, flexibility, resource allocation, risk mitigation, scalability, collaboration, integration, in-house talent, specialized campaigns, agility, external agencies, resource allocation, scalability, collaboration, communication channels, shared goals, transparency, conflict resolution mechanisms, business goals, objectives

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While this episode is not about marketing and pushing your business forward with marketing, if you have a team or the intention of growing one, you're going to want to listen up. In this episode of "She's Busy AF", host Lauren Loreto interviews Dr. Noor, a former medical doctor turned health insurance consultant. Dr. Noor shares her journey from practicing medicine to working in the health insurance industry, emphasizing the importance of personal branding and adapting to career shifts. They discuss the significance of health insurance for entrepreneurs and small businesses, with Dr. Noor providing insights on navigating the private and public health insurance markets. She also highlights the need for insurance to cover unexpected medical expenses and the value of working with a professional agent.

Find Dr. Noor online:

  • Website: https://drnoorhealth.com/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnoorhealth/
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.noorhealth/
  • Twitter: https://twitter.com/drnoorhealth
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrNoorHealthcareAdvisor/
  • Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbDiF1E40YkDw2OvbblnP9Q
  • Think like a woman

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps

  • Dr. Noor's background and medical career (00:04:13)
  • Taking a sales job in the health insurance industry (00:07:24)
  • The importance of health insurance for young adults (00:12:35)
  • Factors to consider when shopping for health insurance plans (00:14:41)
  • The risk of not having health insurance and the importance of getting it early (00:15:27)
  • Accidental and Critical Life Insurance (00:19:41)
  • Considerations for Small Business Insurance (00:24:21)
  • Making Insurance Fun and Enjoyable (00:31:58)

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Host, Lauren Loreto, looks forward to recording this episode ever year. In this episode, she is giving y'all a raw, transparent look at what happened for her marketing agency, Brand Good Time, in 2023 (the good and the bad!) for their growth and shedding light on their plans for 2024. If you're a B2B service provider, you'll want to tune in.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE BRAND GOOD TIMES: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64e7c2d0f354e0ede26ee72a

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Lead Generation Challenges (00:03:32)
  • Networking and Strategic Relationships (00:05:32)
  • Consistent Marketing Approach (00:08:12)
  • Enhancing the Newsletter (00:10:01)
  • Strategic Approach to Podcast Guests (00:10:55)
  • Nurturing Referral Relationships and Strategic Partnerships (00:11:47)
  • The big shift for 2024 (00:19:34)
  • Networking and potential partnerships (00:21:21)

Topics Discussed:Brand Good Time, business, scaling, growing the team, networking, marketing, sales, online communities, value, connections, team education, empowerment, creativity, diversity, profit margins, marketing approach, touchpoints, engagement, email marketing, newsletter, Toast Worthy, Brand Good Times, growth, progress, strategies, success, structure, sneak peeks, tips, actionable advice, feedback, podcast, guests, strategic approach, solo episodes, tech tip, referral relationships, strategic partnerships, collaboration, client experience, project management system, new services, ticketing, service offerings, ideal audience, founders, bandwidth, responsiveness, resources, mindset, creating space for growth, curiosity, goals, vision boards, contact information, networking, strategic partnerships, business owners, collaborations.

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Think “commercials” are way out of budget or just not the right fit for your brand’s visibility tactics? Maybe… think again. In this episode of "She's Busy AF", host Lauren Loreto interviews digital advertising expert Lara Murrant. They discuss the power and accessibility of streaming TV ad placement for brands of all sizes and explore how brands can leverage streaming platforms for advertising.

Find Lara online:

  • www.cultivatingmedia.com
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/laramurrant/
  • https://www.instagram.com/lara_murrant/

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps

  • The power of streaming TV ad placement (00:01:24)
  • Understanding the data and measuring success (00:01:24)
  • The shift towards interest-based targeting (00:09:59)
  • Brand Awareness and OTT vs CTV (00:11:24)
  • Top of Funnel and Tracking Consumer Journey (00:14:20)
  • Streaming TV Ad Placement for Direct-to-Consumer Brands (00:16:53)
  • Streaming TV as a leverage for DTC brands (00:23:16)
  • Hulu as a platform for smaller brands (00:27:54)
  • Different directions for working with brands (00:34:04)

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This week, we're here to make email marketing great again. In this episode of "She's Busy AF" podcast, Lauren emphasizes the importance of email marketing for service providers. She explains how nurture sequences, a series of automated emails, can educate audiences, build trust, and increase conversion rates. Lauren also shares tactics like using lead magnets, pre-sales call nurture sequences, and post-proposal send nurture sequences.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE BRAND GOOD TIMES: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64e7c2d0f354e0ede26ee72a

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:Email Marketing as a Non-Negotiable (00:02:20)
Nurture Sequences and Educating Your Audience (00:04:18)
Nurturing Leads and Keeping Top of Mind (00:07:04)
Examples of Nurture Sequences (00:09:45)

Topics Discussed: email marketing, service providers, nurture sequences, visibility, conversion, sales, conversions, automated emails, subscribers, educate, decrease sales runway, valuable content, relevant content, trust, credibility, higher conversion rates, customer journey, social media, informed leads, engaged leads, segment audience, interests, interactions, engagement, qualified leads, lead magnet, quick win, pre-sales call nurture sequence, post-proposal send nurture sequence, welcome to the email list nurture sequence, sequential emails, time relevance, prenatal and postpartum service provider, expectant mothers, baby development course, weekly roundup of trends, social media managers, long-term client relationships, situational mantras for parents, generic newsletter, predictable, actionable, testimonials, value of services, social media shares, reviews, subscriptions.

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Calling all parties interested in learning more about the CPG industry, and how to stand the test of time in 2024: In this episode of "She's Busy AF", host Lauren Loreto interviews Monique Benoit, a seasoned professional in the consumer product space. They discuss the challenges and strategies for service-based businesses transitioning into product-based businesses, particularly in retail and e-commerce. Monique shares her insights on the high costs of customer acquisition in retail, the limitations of the direct-to-consumer model, and the importance of understanding retailer offerings and consumer trends. She also highlights the significance of unique branding and packaging in the beauty industry. The discussion underscores the need for differentiation in a crowded market and the importance of offering something truly unique and valuable.

Find Monique online:

  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquehbenoit/
  • Her podcast, Beauty from the Shelf: https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/beauty-from-the-shelf/id1666629140

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps

  • The challenges of entering the retail space in 2023/2024 (00:02:07)
  • The process of launching a product-based business (00:03:53)
  • Common challenges brands face in selling products in retail (00:06:49)
  • The challenges of retail and direct-to-consumer models (00:09:43)
  • Insights for selling to retailers (00:12:12)

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In this podcast episode, Christina Barnett, owner of Legendairy Milkshake Bar, shares her entrepreneurial journey and the importance of social media in promoting her business – take one look at their Instagram and you’ll understand. She discusses the challenges of balancing work and personal life, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and being present. Christina also talks about her collaborations with influencers and other businesses to grow her own. Stay tuned to the end to hear about her upcoming NEWEST location!

Find Legendairy + Christina online:

  • https://www.legendairymilkshakebar.com/
  • https://www.instagram.com/legendairymilkshakebar/
  • https://www.tiktok.com/@legendairy_milkshake_bar
  • https://www.facebook.com/legendairymilkshakebar

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:

  • Opening the First Location in Nashville (00:03:43)
  • Discovering Passion for Entrepreneurship (00:07:21)
  • The Milkshake Bar Idea (00:09:14)
  • Opening the Second Location in New Orleans (00:11:00)
  • Surviving the Pandemic (00:12:58)
  • The importance of social media for business (00:17:43)
  • The growth of the business and the role of social media (00:18:18)
  • Collaborations and influencer marketing (00:23:10)
  • The Fear of Personal Branding (00:27:59)
  • Vulnerability and negative feedback (00:37:28)
  • Continuous improvement and staying relevant (00:40:01)
  • Leaving Work at Work(00:43:29)
  • Being a Mom and a Business Owner (00:46:20)

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In this podcast episode, hosts Lauren Loreto (Founder/CEO of Brand Good Time and Lakes Wallace (Client Strategy Manager at Brand Good Time) discuss various horror stories related to business experiences, submitted by listeners. The stories are WILD - and range from late invoice payments and missed potential leads, to rude prospects and problematic clients.

Check out our services (and lock in 2023 pricing before 2024!): https://brandgoodtime.com/services

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Ever thought about niching a bit in your industry? Or how about… entering the short-term rental industry? If either have ever crossed your mind: this is an episode for you. In this podcast episode, Lauren interviews Steph Weber of The Weber Co to discuss their experiences and strategies in the Airbnb industry. They highlight the importance of branding, design, and marketing in attracting bookings and creating unique guest experiences. They also discuss the challenges of the saturated market and the need for hosts to understand the market before investing. Steph shares her transition from being an influencer to starting her own branding and marketing consulting agency and her recent shift into serving (and running a business in)the short-term rental industry. Steph also discusses their co-hosting business and the challenges of property management.

Find Steph & The Weber Co online:

  • www.Theweberco.com
  • www.Instagram.com/theweberco

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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In this podcast episode, Lauren chats with Fran who is a parenting coach specializing in working with parents of challenging children. They discuss topics such as mom guilt, Fran's background as a teacher, and how she became a parenting coach. Fran shares her journey of discovering conscious discipline and implementing it in her own life and eventually helping other teachers and parents. They also discuss strategies for finding balance and minimizing mom guilt, societal expectations on mothers, the importance of a support network, and measuring success.Find Fran Online:

  • instagram.com/coach_franny
  • instagram.com/bemindfulish
  • www.coachfranny.com
  • www.bemindfulish.com

Topics discussed: parenting coach, challenging children, mom guilt, background, teacher, discipline, conscious discipline, classroom management, parent coach, balance, minimize mom guilt, second child, sickness, societal expectations, perfect mother, entrepreneur, mindset, work-life balance, breaking barriers, non-traditional career, societal norms, identity, passion, progress, shared responsibilities, technology, social skills, support network, friends, career-oriented, purpose, balance, measuring success, personal growth, fulfillment.

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From contracts to proposals, visibility tactics, figuring out your ideal client and what to focus on pre-launch, Lauren is digging deep into what she's done (and what she'd do differently if starting over) and answering 11 questions she received from a founder who is starting their first business.

  • The Importance of the Onboarding Process [00:03:16]
  • Contracts and Proposals for a First-time Business [00:05:16]
  • Handling Questions from a Networking Call [00:02:24]
  • Establishing a Connection for Cold Outreach [00:09:50]
  • Knowing Your Ideal Client [00:11:40]
  • Figuring Out Pricing [00:15:23]
  • Working with a Bookkeeper or Accountant [00:17:26]
  • Importance of Story and Brand Personality [00:19:16]
  • Simple Service Offerings and Building an Email List [00:21:07]
  • Creating Processes for Efficiency [00:26:09]
  • Seeking Feedback for Improvement [00:27:09]
  • Hiring Specialists Instead of Coaches [00:29:49]
  • Ambition is Key [00:34:22]

ALL THE LINKS PROMISED:

  • Get 20% off contract templates with www.BerkleySweetapple.com: use code BRANDGOODTIME20 at checkout.
  • Get 50% off your first year with HoneyBook, our fave all-in-one business platform. https://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtime
  • Hire the best bookkeeping team ever: https://www.profitpriority.co/
  • The office chair I'm obsessed with: https://amzn.to/45hjm8i
  • Did I miss something? DM me on IG: @brandgoodtime

Topics Discussed:key factors, clients, learn more, business, onboarding process, marketing tool, informative website, social platforms, ideal clients, Canva, Milkshake, LinkedIn bio tool, optimize profiles, services, contracts, proposals, starting a business, lawyer, Berkeley Sweet Apple, scope of work, billing, force majeure, contractor clause, dormancy clause, HoneyBook, handling contracts, proposals, sales call, cold outreach, referral partners, ideal client, characteristics, personalities, pricing, profit margins, time tracking, Toggle, Classify, hourly rate, packaging services, bookkeeper, accountant, financial situation, budget, cash flow projections, pre-launch phase, story, brand personality, service offerings, email list, customer base, lessons learned, processes, feedback, competitors, failure, mistakes, hiring specialists, ambition, show notes, links, resources, Instagram, support, rate, review, "She's Busy AF"

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There is nothing about entrepreneurship that isn't mildly chaotic. Racing thoughts about your next growth move, or overthinking a client deliverable? Normal. Wondering if you're giving your friends and family enough attention? Normal. If you're a parent… plagued with “mom guilt”? Also normal. This conversation with Haley was so utterly refreshing in that all entrepreneurs are in the same kind of boat. Haley and Lauren talk through strategies for navigating all sorts of emotions that come with entrepreneurship but also talk about the fun of it all (especially when it comes to building a team!)

Find Haley online:

  • https://thewrittenworldagency.com/
  • https://www.instagram.com/thewrittenworld/
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-dagan-3677ab39/
  • https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-written-world/

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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In this podcast episode, Lauren chats with Cierra and Jordan, experts in Black Friday launching, who share their insights and strategies for online businesses to maximize sales and revenue during this time. They emphasize the importance of getting the offer right and being strategic with exclusive offers that add value without devaluing services. They discuss the advantages of participating in Black Friday, including capitalizing on existing customer interest and boosting sales. They also highlight the long-term impact of Black Friday on businesses, such as boosting confidence and solidifying brand and mission. Cierra and Jordan explain their approach to supporting students during Black Friday launches, providing curriculum, accountability, and mindset support. The host expresses her surprise at the impact of Black Friday on small businesses and thanks the guests for sharing their insights.

Find Cierra and Jordyn online:

  • jordynbailey.com
  • robbinscollective.com
  • instagram.com/thejordynbailey
  • instagram.com/sell.with.cierra

Join their program! BFBLaunch.com

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Black Friday as a Profitable Opportunity [00:01:52]

Leveraging Black Friday for Service Providers [00:05:10]

Creating Chaos-Free Black Friday Launches [00:08:36]

Give yourself plenty of time [00:09:28]

Strategic launching for Black Friday [00:10:17]

Considerations for Black Friday campaign [00:11:08]

The confidence boost and changing the way of doing business [00:17:34]

Taking time off during the holidays [00:18:11]

Success stories of Amanda and Cassie [00:19:32]

The Black Friday launch strategy [00:25:35]

The impact of Black Friday on online businesses [00:26:46]

Topics Discussed:Black Friday, online businesses, increase sales, revenue, Black Friday experts, launches, insights, strategies, profitable, audience, offers, exclusive offers, value, mini offers, bundle offers, overwhelm, start early, tasks, engage, selling, strategic planning, buyer's experience, B2C businesses, goals, variation, existing product, advantages, attention, interest, boost, financial benefits, long-term impact, confidence boost, sell, market, brand, mission, non-financial advantages, time off, holidays, success stories, students, unique, curriculum, recommendations, group meetings, accountability, questions, troubleshoot, mindset support, imposter syndrome, doubts, launching, support, small businesses, Instagram handles, website, Black Friday boot camp, support system

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Welcome to... HE'S Busy AF! In this podcast episode featuring our first ever male guest, Lauren Loreto, the host of "She's Busy AF," interviews Kyle, a world-class presentation coach and story strategist. They discuss the importance of storytelling in communication and sales, with Kyle sharing his expertise in crafting impactful stories. They delve into techniques such as using active voice, adding sensory details, and speaking in the present tense. Kyle also shares examples of success stories and his own personal journey with storytelling. Don't miss this episode and stay until the very end to hear Kyle tell his very own story!

Find Kyle Online:

  • https://thestoryengine.co/crossroads-heros-journey-buyers-journey/
  • https://thestoryengine.co/content-marketing-buyers-journey/
  • http://sellingwithstory.co/
  • https://thestoryengine.co/resources
  • https://thestoryengine.co/selling-with-story-resources
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-gray-27055b33/

Find Lauren online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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Get ready for an epic, friendly conversation with Brooke Jackson of Brooke Michelle Photo and host Lauren Loreto as they delve into the essence of personal branding. You'll hear about the pivotal role their friendship played in their business success, and discover how personal branding shaped their connection. Gain insights from their experiences with personal branding, including valuable lessons learned along the way. Lastly, you'll snag a tantalizing glimpse into Brooke's own podcast, "My Life Be Like," where she fearlessly shares her personal journey. Tune in now!

Obsess over Brooke, just like Lauren does: 

  • www.brookemichellephoto.com
  • Instagram: @brookemichellej @mylifebelikepod
  • Binge her pod: https://brookemichellephoto.com/podcast-links

Find us online:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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What makes a good strategic partnershop? In this podcast episode, Lauren brings on Aurrie Hicks of Hopson Rae to talk all things collaboration and strategic partnerships. They share how they first connected through social media and discovered they had the same due date for their pregnancies. They talk about their backgrounds and starting their own businesses, as well as the benefits of working together on client projects. They emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and setting expectations in strategic partnerships. They also touch on practical aspects such as invoicing, software subscriptions, and sharing ideas.

Find Aurrie online:

  • https://www.hopsonrae.com
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

Follow BGT on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Work with us: brandgoodtime.com

Topics discussed: podcast, conversation, connection, backgrounds, businesses, branding, design industry, collaboration, client projects, strategic partnerships, social media, prints, girls, universe, Georgia, Birmingham, Alabama, agency world, corporate marketing, small businesses, agency prices, services, boss, time flies, great people, clients, one-stop shop, professionals, trust, credibility, communication, daily collaboration, positive review, behind-the-scenes work, potential strategic partnerships, fit, test project, transparent communication, expectations, workload, leveraging strengths, camaraderie, managing expectations, clear communication, timelines, internal meetings, systems, processes, Monday.com, Slack, simplicity, branding, tracking time, HoneyBook, contracts, invoices, billing process, practical aspects, questionnaires, software subscriptions, marketing trends, feedback, suggestions, partnership agreement, page-turner books, reality TV shows, Real Housewives of New York, cast members, careers, personalities, admiration, dislike, reboot, Real Housewives of Orange County, BravoCon, ticket prices, disappointment, logistics, Las Vegas, New York, website, social media handles, gratitude, future episodes.

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In this podcast episode, Lauren Loreto, host of "She's Busy AF," shares her team's recent retreat experience. The purpose of the retreat was to bring together remote team members from different locations, celebrate, plan for the future, create content, and serve local businesses. The planning process involved budgeting, goal-setting, and finding a suitable location. The team stayed at the Hollingsworth House, a historic Airbnb with themed rooms and ample space. They engaged in team-building activities, conducted web audits for local businesses, and had a company vision chat. Tune in to learn more about their team retreat and lessons learned!

  • Check out The Hollingsworth House: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/879604531181380550
  • Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
  • Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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Lauren took a week off of the podcast and invited two team members from Brand Good Time in to talk all things BARBIE MARKETING. In this episode, Laken Wallace and Hope Dwyer of Brand Good Time discuss the rebranding and marketing efforts of Barbie. They talk about the release of the Barbie movie and various brand partnerships that have contributed to the success of the campaign. They highlight the unique marketing strategies employed, such as the selfie generator and experiential marketing. The hosts express their admiration for Barbie's attention-grabbing tactics and the sense of gamification involved. They also discuss the transition from brand partnerships to organic, earned marketing. The conversation then shifts to the future of Mattel's marketing, including plans for more movies featuring different Barbie products.

Topics Discussed: rebranding, marketing, Barbie, Barbie movie, brand partnerships, podcast, spoiler-free zone, sales decline, image problems, reputation issues, rebranding efforts, vlog Barbie, body types, inclusivity, impact, marketing strategies, selfie generator, connectedness, experiential marketing, brand collaborations, makeup brands, Xbox, Burger King, Crocs, Barbie Dreamhouse, Airbnb, flashmob, excitement, admiration, attention-grabbing, gamification, success, user-generated content, Barbie filter, organic marketing, earned marketing, brand partnerships, trend-setting, future, Mattel's marketing, movies, Hot Wheels, Uno, Polly Pocket, Littlest Pet Shop, personal connectionFollow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Work with us: brandgoodtime.com

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In this episode of the "She's Busy AF" podcast, Lauren reflects on the journey of her podcast and discusses the complexities of marketing for small businesses. She emphasizes the importance of simplifying marketing and focuses on the three key elements of a successful marketing plan: having a product, a differentiator, and the means and messaging to reach the target audience. Lauren highlights the significance of product validation, identifying unique selling points, and crafting messaging that resonates with the audience. She also discusses the importance of nurturing the audience through various channels and having a decision tactic for immediate action.

Check out our 90 Day Plan Service: https://brandgoodtime.com/90-day-plans
Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Topics Discussed:
Journey, episodes, marketing, small businesses, teams, simplifying marketing, sales, product visibility, marketing plan, product, differentiator, target audience, testimonials, feedback, case studies, unique selling points, competitors, online presence, nurturing relationships, resources, messaging, testing, experimentation, audiences, raving fans, sales metrics, nurturing audience, email, newsletters, social media, podcasts, success metrics, podcast downloads, email lists, engagement, decision tactic, purchase, desktop, mobile platforms, checkout, touchpoints, discounts, payment plans, visibility tactic, nurture tactic, decision tactic, marketing strategy, goals, 90 days, visibility, nurture audience, decision-making process, ideal buyer, executing tactics, integration, team, 90-day plan service, execute marketing strategies.

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In this episode, Lauren interviews Kori Whitby, a conversion copywriter and messaging strategist. They discuss Kori's entrepreneurial journey and her work in the field of copywriting. Kori shares how she discovered her passion for copywriting and her thoughts on the different categories of copywriters. They also delve into the balance between creative copy and effective calls to action, the use of AI in copywriting, and the importance of human connection and authenticity in digital marketing. Kori also provides advice for DIY copywriting and choosing a copywriter. 

Check her out online: www.bykoriwhitby.com
Follow her on IG: www.instagram.com/bykoriwhitby
Get on the waitlist for her template shop: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/64b6cc54cd56042d78f06a62

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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In this podcast episode, Lauren discusses the various tech tools and software her company uses for communication, sales, marketing, and client services. She emphasizes the importance of investing in technology to improve efficiency and mentions specific tools like Loom, Whereby, Slack, Monday.com, HoneyBook, and Calendly. Lauren also talks about their use of Flodesk for email marketing, Buzzsprout for podcast uploading, and PodSqueeze for show notes and SEO optimization. She also mentions the use of G Suite, Miro, Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Social Pilot, and Copy.ai for various aspects of client services and social media management.

All of our affiliate links, if you choose to give them a try:

  • Podsqueeze - https://podsqueeze.com/?ref=brandgoodtime
  • HoneyBook: http://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtime - get 35% off your first year
  • Flodesk: https://flodesk.com/c/BRANDGOODTIME - 50% off your first year

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Topics discussed: tech tools, software, communication, sales, marketing, client services, technology, efficiency, strategic team members, Loom, whereby, Slack, Monday.com, HoneyBook, Calendly, video screen sharing, recording, call communication software, Zoom, team management communication, project management software, questionnaires, invoicing, automation capabilities, scheduling sales calls, Flodesk, Klaviyo, Buzzsprout, podcast uploading, podcast show notes, SEO optimization, Pod Squeeze, transcription, titles, topics discussed, notable quotes, G Suite, email, collaboration, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Miro, Adobe Creative Suite, website wireframing, design, Canva, social media scheduling, Sprout Social, Social Pilot, Copy.ai, content creation, ideation

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This podcast is all about effective ways to overcome business slumps. Drawing from her own experiences, Lauren offers practical strategies to guide you through difficult times. 

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Topics discussed: sales slump, business, companies, financial difficulties, allocation of resources, personal experience, moving, flood, marketing plan, team, social media presence, value-driven content, potential customers, consistency, creativity, competitors, new opportunities, connections, network, referrals, success, take action, overcome, explore, provide value, be consistent, connect, networking calls, groups, networking locally, showcase expertise, evaluate, areas for improvement, lean into slumps, marketing efforts, urgency, availability, willingness to work, episode, take action, implement strategies, helpful insights, rate and review, podcast.

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In this podcast episode, host Lauren Loreto of the "She's Busy AF" podcast discusses the challenges and considerations of adding new services to her business. She emphasizes the importance of perfecting their existing services before expanding and highlights the concept of friction in services and client relationships. Lauren shares specific challenges they faced with their 90-day plan service and their Dev Day service and explains the adjustments they made to address these issues. She also emphasizes the importance of efficiency and finding the right balance between delivering a great service and maintaining profitability.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Topics Discussed: intrusive thoughts, Instagram, challenges, considerations, new services, Brand Good Time, team, sales, marketing, issues, gaps, agencies, quality, client satisfaction, team productivity, continuous improvement, friction, services, client relationships, learn, optimize processes, 90-day plan service, monthly check-ins, overdelivering, honest, capacity, agency service, commitment period, price, dev day service, website in a day, time frame, deadlines, necessary materials, efficient, high-quality, profitability, value, team growth, development, adjustments, meet clients' needs, efficiency, success, shiny object syndrome, expanding services, team buy-in, processes, smooth transition, well-defined processes, positive feedback

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This episode of "She's Busy AF" with Abby Littlefield, Executive Director of Kindred Exchange is all about making an impact. In this podcast, Abby shares the most valuable lesson she's learned from her work: the importance of balancing impact and ethics. She explains how Kindred Exchange is making a difference through its three pillars of conversation, consulting, and cohorts, and how they measure success through storytelling and building relationships. Abby also discusses the importance of being mindful and ethical when sharing stories from vulnerable communities and how Kindred Exchange is using innovative strategies to reach more people and raise awareness for their cause. Overall, this is a highly informative episode surrounding the non-profit space, but with lines that can be drawn to any business seeking to ethically market themselves.

  • Find Abby online: https://www.instagram.com/abbyylittlefield/
  • Learn more about Kindred Exchange: https://www.kindredexchange.org/
  • Donate to Kindred Exchange: https://www.kindredexchange.org/donate

Topics Discussed: She's Busy AF, podcast, Abby Littlefield, Executive Director, Kindred Exchange, nonprofit organization, ethical, sustainable, mission work, development, business training, entrepreneurs, vulnerable communities, conversation, consulting, cohorts, Uganda, graduation, impact, data, storytelling, consent, nonprofit marketing, mindful, technology, community involvement, volunteers, donors, Instagram, email list, monthly giving, cohorts in Uganda, Laos, Dominican Republic, business curriculum, multiple languages, podcast network, Ethical Narratives, cross-cultural setting.

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Are you a business owner looking to grow your team and improve your website? In this episode of "She's Busy AF," Lauren and Bailey discuss the importance of team management, website design, and taking responsibility for mistakes in business. Bailey shares her experience in expanding her team and the benefits of delegating tasks, while Lauren emphasizes the need for clear expectations and project management processes. They also discuss common mistakes made in website design and the impact they can have on a business's credibility and pricing perception. The most valuable lesson from this episode is the importance of taking ownership of mistakes and using them as an opportunity to improve and grow. Tune in for more tips and insights from these two successful entrepreneurs.

Find her on social: instagram.com/honeywavecreative

Check out her new website: honeywavecreative.com 

Find Lauren on Social: @brandgoodtime | www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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In this podcast episode, Lauren Loreto, the host of "She's Busy AF," discusses the latest trends in marketing and business. She talks about the impact of the economy on businesses and delves into three trends in the business and marketing space, including the rise of podcasting, the importance of LinkedIn as a marketing tool for B2B businesses, and the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing and business. She also recommends three tools that have helped her agency save time and improve efficiency, emphasizing the importance of ramping up efforts in Q3 to prepare for the busy season in Q4.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto
Click here to try out Podqueeze (affiliate link).

Lauren talks about: trends in marketing, business, Q3, B2B agency, economy, podcasting, C-suite executives, personal brand, LinkedIn, lead generation, artificial intelligence, AI, Grammarly, Copy AI, efficiency, Pod Squeeze, Loom, visibility, successs

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In this episode of "She's Busy AF," host Lauren Loreto interviews web designer turned OBM, Liz Strong. They discuss the importance of leadership and tracking four critical numbers in business: lead stats, time stats, profitability, and service percentage. Liz shares her expertise in using data to make informed decisions and streamline processes to improve profitability and scalability. She emphasizes the need to focus on services that are actually profitable and to nurture relationships and word-of-mouth marketing. Overall, Liz's insights provide valuable guidance for creative entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses in a ~ highly ~ sustainable way.

Find Liz on social: https://www.instagram.com/luxandvitadsn/

Subscribe to Liz's newsletter: https://luxandvita.ck.page/b3ce0569dc

Find Lauren on Social: @brandgoodtime | www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Topics discussed: website designer, entrepreneur, leadership, business setup, lead stats, time stats, profitability, service percentage, newsletter, creative entrepreneurs, tracking time, Toggle, Time Camp, data, informed decisions, measuring profitability, formula, hourly rates, finance professional, marketing channels, profitability margins, delegation, relationships, word of mouth marketing, service offering, financial health, Instagram DMs, email list.

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In this episode of "She's Busy AF", host Lauren Loreto interviews Alyson Caffrey, founder of the Operations Agency, the co-creator of the Operations Simplified™ Framework, and the author of The Sabbatical Method: Create a business that can function without you. They discuss the importance of work-life harmony for business owners and the mindset shift needed to effectively delegate tasks to a team. Alyson emphasizes the need for a solid foundation before delegating and the incremental process of building trust and increasing delegation over time. They also touch on The Sabbatical Method, data-driven decision-making, and the importance of taking breaks to avoid burnout. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of building a solid foundation for a business and prioritizing work-life harmony.

Find her on social: @alycaffrey Buy her new book: https://amzn.to/3MJQsGC --Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Timestamps:
Title: Introduction of Alyson Caffrey [00:00:16] Lauren introduces Alyson Caffrey, founder of Operations Agency and co-creator of Operations Simplified Framework, and talks about her expertise in streamlining backend operations.

Title: Importance of Work-Life Harmony [00:01:54] Alyson and Lauren discuss the importance of work-life harmony for business owners and the need to have pockets of friends for different lifestyles.

Title: Mindset Shift for Effective Delegation [00:05:17] Alyson talks about the mindset shift needed to effectively delegate tasks to a team and the incremental process of building trust and increasing delegation over time.

Training Wheels for Delegation [00:07:02] Alyson discusses the importance of an iterative process when delegating tasks to a team, using training wheels to guide them.

Avoiding Quality Issues When Delegating [00:08:40] Alyson suggests starting with low-hanging fruit and creating a list of non-negotiables to avoid quality issues when delegating tasks to a team.

Challenges of Maintaining Quality in a Growing Agency [00:11:53] Lauren and Alyson discuss the challenges of maintaining quality in a growing agency and the importance of having a process in place and someone owning quality.

Pushing Buttons and Pulling Levers [00:13:37] Alyson discusses the challenges of delegating tasks to a team and the importance of having a solid foundation before doing so.

The Sabbatical Method [00:17:21] Alyson talks about her upcoming book on the sabbatical method and how it can help business owners build systems to function without them, whether for longevity or for exit.

Removing the Founder [00:19:44] Lauren raises a question about how to maintain a company's culture and values when the founder is removed, especially in the context of a potential acquisition.

Building for Longevity vs. Exit [00:20:43] Alison discusses the importance of determining whether a business is being built for longevity or for an exit strategy.

Corporate vs. Small Business Operations [00:21:29] Alison compares the differences between corporate and small business operations and how small businesses can leverage corporate strategies.

Simplicity in Decision Making [00:25:38] Alyson and Lauren discuss the importance of data-driven decision making and the power of making quick, informed decisions as a founder.

Importance of Simple Operations

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Get ready to shake it off with this episode of "She's Busy AF" where our host, Lauren Loreto, spills the tea on Taylor Swift's marketing genius. From her humble beginnings to her chart-topping albums and sold-out tours, Taylor's journey is a masterclass in authenticity, adaptability, emotional connection, and data-driven decision-making. Lauren also reveals how Taylor's fan engagement and interaction have created a fierce bond between her and her fans, resulting in loyal following and epic stadium shows. So, whether you're a die-hard Swiftie or a business owner looking to learn from the best, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and get ready to be enchanted by the marketing strategies of one of the biggest pop stars in the world.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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The podcast episode features Lauren Loreto, the host of "She's Busy AF," and Lakes Wallace, a team member of and the client strategy manager at Brand Good Time. They discuss their personal and professional lives, their roles at Brand Good Time, and how they almost didn't pick each other for the job. They also talk about Lakes' background in non-profit strategy and how it led her to her current role. The conversation covers topics such as effective project management, maintaining strong client relationships, setting healthy boundaries, and work-life harmony. The episode ends with a teaser for a future segment where Lakes and Lauren will share client horror stories.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto
Connect with Lakes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakenwallace/

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In this podcast episode, Lauren discusses the importance of personal branding for businesses and provides three key considerations for building your personal brand: authenticity, creating a plan, and networking. She provides tips on how to show up authentically on social media, how to align your social media plan with your values and goals, and how to engage with your audience and build a community. Tune in to learn how to establish a strong personal brand and online presence to grow your business.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com

Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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In this episode, we're diving into the world of email marketing and sharing 7 essential tips for creating an engaged and converting email list. Whether you're a small business owner, an entrepreneur, or a marketer, having a strong email list can be a game-changer for your business.

Whether you're just starting out with email marketing or looking to take your current email list to the next level, this episode is packed with practical tips and insights to help you create a highly engaged and converting email list. So grab your headphones and tune in to learn how to make the most of this powerful marketing channel!

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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Looking to expand your email list and boost your business? In this episode, we're sharing 5 realistic and efficient ways to grow your email list, from optimizing your website and leveraging social media to hosting webinars and using paid advertising. With these strategies, you'll be able to reach a wider audience, connect with potential customers, and build a strong email list for your business. Tune in now to learn how to grow your email list.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime
Check out our services: www.brandgoodtime.com
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

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In this episode, we're talking all about the future of web development, TikTok, and ChatGPT. We'll be diving into the latest trends and advancements in these areas, from the rise of progressive web apps to the impact of TikTok on social media. And of course, we'll explore how ChatGPT, an AI-powered language model, is changing the game for human-machine interactions. 

Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto
Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime

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AI copy tools like ChatGPT are taking the world by storm. But, I have to argue that I don't think they're perfect, and I don't think they'll ever fully replace HUMANS in the way of creative marketing. They do, however, create massive efficiencies in marketing processes. I believe this: ChatGPT can 100% transform how efficient you are in marketing, and I'm going to break down just how (while still being ethical and true to your brand).

Visit us online: brandgoodtime.com
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/brandgoodtime

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In this episode, Lauren dives into the world of marketing and highlight six women who broke barriers, challenged stereotypes, and made significant contributions to the industry. From groundbreaking advertising campaigns to revolutionary market research, these women have left an indelible mark on marketing history.

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When it comes to running ads on social media (namely, Facebook Ads), is a dollar better spent on ads or on champagne? As with many questions about life's big decisions, the answer here largely depends on your business and your goals - and what you hope to accomplish with your advertising campaign. Tune in as Lauren talks about some main foundations to set prior to running Facebook Ads, and when to know you're ready.

Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto/
Book a call with Lauren: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call

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Are you looking for a way to make your business more visible? How about some tips on how to cultivate a strong middle-of-funnel strategy? In this episode, we’re going to talk about visibility, and how it works with the customer journey. We’ll discuss why it’s important to consider the middle of that journey when developing your visibility plan, and give you some tips on how you can create an impactful strategy without spending too much time or money. We also want to talk about email funnels and social proof—what they are and how they can help grow your business. We’ll give tips on how these strategies work together as well as how they can complement each other when trying to reach new customers or retain existing ones.

Grab the metrics mothership: https://www.brandgoodtime.com/metrics-mothership   

Book a call with Lauren: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call 

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Conflict is the result of miscommunication. In business (and in life) conflict is inevitable. Tune in as Lauren breaks down solutions for addressing conflict as a leader and ways to be effective when dealing with both.

Buy the book (and thank us later): https://amzn.to/3x0a9Tj 

Connect with me on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto

Topics discussed:

  • How taking ownership is the key to success in leadership
  • Examples of ways to take ownership
  • How to address conflict with clients and your team

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One of the biggest questions businesses ask is “how do I know my website is sucessful?” In this episode, Lauren breaks down the anatomy of a “successful” website and chats about the most important metrics to track.

Download our REVAMPED Metrics Mothership: https://brandgoodtime.com/metrics-mothership 

How to Install Google Analytics to your website: https://support.google.com/analytics/answer/9304153?hl=en

Try HotJar for free: https://hotjar.com/ 

Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call 

Topics discussed

  • How to set goals for your website
  • How your website goals should be tied directly to business goals
  • The two main metrics to track for your website
  • The difference between organic search, organic social, referral and direct traffic
  • The best tools for tracking data for your website

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Entrepreneurship and building a business has some serious ups and downs. In this episode, Lauren dives into the 8 big things she’s learned over her 8 years of entrepreneurship and how you can learn from them, too.

Topics discussed

  • Branding and not falling for visual trends
  • Why legally protecting your business is a non-negotiable
  • The importance of listening to your gut
  • Trusting that there are other ways to achieve results
  • Why hustling shouldn’t be looked at as a bad thing
  • The importance of support
  • One of the best investments to make as soon as you can
  • Why client experience and employee experience should be a top priority

Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/brandgoodtime  

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Scaling is not linear, and it can be daunting. Where do you start? Is it right for your business? At the end of the day, scaling isn’t meant for every business, and if you do decide scaling is for you, it’s important to be strategic in your approach. Learn how to scale a service-based business with these foundational steps.

Book a consult: https://www.brandgoodtime.com/contact Try HoneyBook for $1/month: http://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtimeScaling? Grab a copy of Built to Sell: https://amzn.to/3CCdU4H
Want to stay small and lean but still make measurable progress? Grab a copy of Company of One: https://amzn.to/3iqF2wB 

Topics Discussed:

  • What scaling looks like
  • Understanding profit margins to make decisions
  • Organizational structures and trajectory of a business
  • Where to start for setting automations in your business
  • How processes are a crucial step to scale
  • Examples of how we use HoneyBook to automate the majority of our marketing and sales cycles
  • The logistics of bringing on a team and where to start
  • Why a feedback loop matters and how to apply it to customers AND team members

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One of the cool things about a new year in the business world is predicting new marketing trends and learning up on them so that you can get a head start on implementing them. Between the best platforms to grow your personal brand, how to elevate your customer’s experience (and team experience), and if paid advertising is even important, dive into the new year with these new predictions in your pocket.

Topics Discussed:

  • LinkedIn's role in building a personal brand
  • Paid Advertising or SEO: which is a better investment this year?
  • The two big secrets to brand evolution in 2023
  • How to apply specific customer experience strategies to your business

Check out our 90 Day Plan service: https://brandgoodtime.com/90-Day-plans 

Join Thought Leaders Collective: https://propegy.thrivecart.com/tlc/?affiliate=brandgoodtime 

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandgoodtime    

Sources: https://kinsta.com/blog/linkedin-statistics/

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At Brand Good Time, our niche “clientele” are brands that are down to have a good time, and we keep it at that. Because of this, we have a large spectrum of clients in different industries and at different stages. Naturally,  start-ups fall onto our plates and they happen to be a favorite to work with because essentially - the possibilities are endless and things can always take a fun and exciting new direction. Whether you’re interested in working more with start-ups, or want to know some ins and outs of the process - dive into today’s episode to learn more!

Topic Discussed:

  • How the mentality of working with startups is different
  • The opportunity to create lots of change and influence
  • Having to be on your toes and run with inevitable changes

Connect with us:

Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com

Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call 

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Get ready for a mix of money and motherhood with a special guest Kimberly Tara. We discuss money stress and hardships and how it’s more common than you might think, using your time wisely when you don’t have much of it, and why a minivan might not be your best bet for a car when you have a family of six. Whether you’re a parent or not, this is a must-listen.

Topic Discussed:

  • Growing up without money education vs with money education
  • Growing a family of 6 and why a minivan is NOT the go to car
  • Why it’s important to have an educated understanding of taxes and tax planning and tax preparation in your business – even if you’re not the one doing it
  • When you should start thinking about tax planning and when tax strategy should come into play
  • How to find a qualified money professional
  • Money stress and hardships, and surprisingly how common it is – and why Kimberly suggests one of your first investments in business should be outsourcing the money part
  • Why monthly or quarterly money assessments are crucial to growth of your business
  • How to make sure you’re not pouring from an empty cup as a mom and business owner
  • Using your time wisely when you’re strapped for it
  • Top recommended resources for entreprneuers and small but growing businesses

Connect with Kimberly Tara

  • www.taracpafirm.com
  • @taracpafirm
  • www.messywonderful.com
  • @messy_wonderful

Book Recommendations:

  • Everything is Figureoutable
  • The Compound Effect
  • Think and Grow Rich
  • Die with Zero

Connect with us:

  • Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime
  • Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com
  • Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call

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Never really quite know what to get a client for a gift, but want them to know you appreciate them trusting you with their business? We’ve got you covered - from our favorite gift-giving ideas to sweet discount codes you can use when planning, you’ll  win at client gift-giving this year. (don’t worry - we go above and beyond the typical Starbucks or Target gift card).

Topics Discussed:

  • Why we love client gifting and recommend it
  • Why being thoughtful in client gifting pays off
  • Some of our favorite client gift ideas that aren’t just a Starbucks gift card

Referral links (disclaimer: we receive affiliate commission on all of the below]

  • BoxFox: HTTP://RWRD.IO/YETC36Z
  • Brooke Michelle Photo: https://shop.brookemichellephoto.com/apparel-shop code BRANDGOODTIME gets you 30% off
  • Storyteller Tactics Deck: https://amzn.to/3u4OOXk

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Ever heard ‘a goal without a plan is just a dream?’ Well, not to get all inspirational quote mom from HomeGoods on you, but it's the truth. Without a plan and solid objectives, whatever you want to achieve will not happen. But it can if you buckle down and plan out how to get there - and that’s exactly what I’m here to help you do on today’s episode. Make sure to tune in towards the end for a freebie to help you start planning!

Topic Discussed:

  • What growth can look like in your business
  • Our formula for planning for growth within your business
  • Everything you need to consider when planning action strategies

Download our metrics mothership: https://brandgoodtime.com/metrics-mothership 

Connect with us:

Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com

Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call

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While it may be considered “old school” and somewhat costly, outbound marketing is still a fantastic method of marketing you should definitely use. In this episode, we’ll dive into the differences between inbound and outbound marketing, the benefits of each, and how you can start using outbound marketing in your business.

Topic Discussed:

  • The difference between inbound and outbound marketing
  • The benefits of inbound vs outbound marketing
  • Why you should consider adding outbound marketing to your marketing strategies
  • How to implement outbound marketing in your business

Connect with us:

Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com

Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call 

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One if the best ways to get out of the vacuum of what you know in your business practice is to get in front of AND be around other industry professionals. The most immersive way to do this? Conferences. In this episode, we talk about the conferences we have our eyes on and how to know what to consider when picking out conferences to attend.

Topic Discussed:

  • What conferences can do for your business
  • Two things we suggest considering while searching for conferences to attend
  • Conferences we have our eyes on such as INBOUND, Adobe Max, Content Marketing World, Webflow Conf, and Showit Spark

Connect with us:
Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime
Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com
Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call 

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There are so many unknowns when it comes to building a business and having a team, even if this isn’t your first rodeo. What do you put in a job description? Who do you hire first? How do you train your team to be resourceful? Join Lauren and her guest, Kira La Forgia of Paradigm Consulting, in a candid conversation about hiring and growing a team.

Topic Discussed:

  • Business coaches and how they fit into HR strategies
  • How to make hires that care about your business (Best team members care about their career)
  • Why the job description is so important and how to build it to complement the business growth
  • Fill the holes where you need the most help first
  • Navigating fears of people not being with you forever
  • The difference between a contractor and an employee and what your business really needs
  • Inter-company mentorship and how it enhances the legitimacy of our industries
  • Where corporate culture is going from a marketing and HR perspective
  • How to train your employees to be figure-it-outlets
  • How to know when it’s time to really work on your HR strategy

Connect with Kira & The Paradigm Consulting

Instagram: theparadigmm

Her website & blog: https://the-paradigm.com/

Connect with us:

Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com

Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call

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Whether your business is big or small, sometimes what good marketing for any size of brand boils down to this:  having the time, or having the hands. Or both. Your marketing, especially when you’re busy and you have X amount of client work or orders, should never go quiet. This revolves around understanding your marketing funnel and it’s avenues and how YOU can manage them. Sometimes, we can’t manage them ourselves - so we have to call in the troops. (AKA, outsourcing) So are you ready to figure out how to make your marketing a well oiled, constant working machine? Hit that play button! 

Topics discussed:

  • Understanding how the marketing funnel works within your business.
  • How marketing affects top of mind space within a consumer.
  • The importance of consistency inside your marketing plan.

See all available positions at Brand Good Time: brandgoodtime.com/join-the-team

Follow us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

Find us online: brandgoodtime.com & shesbusyaf.com

Book a call with us: https://calendly.com/brandgoodtime/sales-call 

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Check out Brand in a Bottle: brandgoodtime.com/brand-in-a-bottle

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Lauren recaps the events leading up to her wedding and the wedding itself. From the engagement, civil ceremony, engagement party and the church wedding, she's leaving no detail spared. 

The photos to match the story: bit.ly/loreto-wedding
Our perfect wedding photographer: brookemichellephoto.com @brookemichellej

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Between suffering in the heat and not being able to put down her Chobani Pumpkin Spice Creamer because she IS that b*tch, these are the things Lauren can’t get enough of.  This is Obsessions Anonymous Vol 2.

Topics discussed:

  • Lauren's addiction to Chobani Pumpkin Spice Creamer
  • Theming birthday parties because Lauren is type A and everything must be planned
  • Having 2 internet providers
  • The most refreshing margarita you’ll ever sip on

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Brand evolution is inevitable – especially in service-based businesses. An AC repairman, over time, has to learn to work with new thermostat systems. A marketing business has to evolve with consumer behavior and trends as new platforms enter the market. In this episode, Lauren talks about forms of brand evolution that service-based businesses go through, why it’s a great thing, and her take on how to adapt to ‘changing times.’ She also dives into discussing the plans for growth at Brand Good Time and what this evolution looks like for them.

Topics discussed:

  • How planning is crucial not only to your biz but the development of your brand.
  • How we’re integrating a 90 day planning strategy within Brand Good Time
  • How we're hiring internally (and open positions, if you're interested!)
  • Creating SOP’s and how simplifying them creates smoothness of processes

Join our team: brandgoodtime.com/join-our-team

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90% of the success you’re experiencing right now is because of the efforts you put into play 90 days ago. Tune in to learn the process Lauren takes all of her clients through when planning for the next 90 days. Definitely grab a pen and paper or open your notes app to jot some notes down because this one is super robust and will help you plan the next 90 days of your business.
Topics Discussed:

  • How one piece of content won't always make or break a client sale
  • Our 3 step process for creating a 90 day marketing strategy
  • Questions to ask yourself in the creation of your processes
  • Ideas for the top, middle and bottom of your marketing funnel (and how they're not all mutually exclusive)
  • How to create strategies for marketing within your 90 day strategy with a robust example
  • The difference between brand building and evergreen marketing strategies and tactics

Check out our 90 Day Strategy Service: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us 

Get on the Toastworthy email list (our Friday newsletter): https://brandgoodtime.com/#toastworthy 

Connect with us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

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Tune in as Lauren talks about the 4 sales and marketing strategies she’s leaving in Q3, and what this means for the strategies in place for Q4. She dives into Instagram algorithm changes, podcasting strategies, client gifting, and sales strategies.

Topics discussed:

  • How good strategies are not rinse and repeat, but good PROCESSES are
  • How we’re combatting Instagram algorithm changes to still see results
  • How we’re refining some of the efforts we already have in place
  • Why we love client gifting and how we’re elevating it for our clients as we enter Q4
  • How we’ve shifted our sales strategies and already seen a difference in qualified leads
  • And of course, Taylor Swift’s new album dropping this October

Get on the Toastworthy email list (our Friday newsletter): https://brandgoodtime.com/#toastworthy

Work with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us

Connect with us on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

Sign up for Honeybook for just $1/mo: http://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtime

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Sparked by the new Victoria's Secret documentary, this episode is dedicated to sharing the REAL stories of a few household name brands. Did any of these totally shock you? Send us a message on IG (@shesbusyaf) and let us know!

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Campaign launches can be complicated. And daunting. And overwhelming. But they don't have to be a FLOP. We're dishing all the deets and how it applies to one particular client of ours in this episode and how you can plan successful campaign launches for years to come!

Work with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us
Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime

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Ways of marketing business evolve. That's kind of a no-brainer statement. In 2022, there's no shortage of change. Change to old ways, addition of new ways, and some platforms even straight up jacking ways from other platforms. Staying on these trends (and honestly, ahead of them) is how you set yourself up for success. So, how do you stay on top of and ahead of new platform developments without pulling your hair out? Tune in to find out Lauren's favorite way to take advantage of this decade's latest marketing strategy development (and what it even is).

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf
Learn how you can work with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us

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Truth be told, most businesses are NOT set-and-forget when it comes to growth and evolving of products and services. Why is this? Because consumer needs change. Market trends change. In this episode, Lauren shares how to know it's time to actively evolve your business, and just how to do it.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf

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We didn't go into business for ourselves to work a 9-5. In this episode, Lauren talks about why she works nights & weekends and why she endorses it, as well as tips for making your schedule work for you.

Follow us on Instagram: @brandgoodtime @shesbusyaf

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Why is email marketing a must-have marketing tool in your business? How do you use email marketing to engage your audience? Tune in to learn specific tips WITH examples to help make email marketing one of your highest converting marketing tools.

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto/
Follow me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

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Lauren peels back the curtain on her ‘hobbies’ and things that she has been into over the years – some well before starting a business was even a thought of hers. 

You work really hard, we just know it, but we hope that this episode inspires you to be consciously aware that you are more than just your work. In the words of Kenny Chesney… “live a little, have some fun.” 

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Why are metrics important in business? They tell you everything you need to know in order to make business-altering (for the better) decisions. In this week’s episode, we’re breaking out the most important metrics to track in your sales and marketing, what they mean, why you should care about them and how to take those metrics and make decisions with them to improve and grow your business.

Download the Metrics Mothership [free]: brandgoodtime.com/metrics-mothership
Download the Lucrative Lead Tracker [free]: brandgoodtime.com/lucrative-lead-tracker

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Our first-ever live marketing audit! Listen as Lauren sits down with Amanda Guerassio, Brand Designer, and dissects her current marketing efforts in order to make small but impactful changes that benefit her overall brand goals. They talk about reviving an email list, landing more speaking engagements, selling out workshops, and reaching income goals. 

Find Amanda online:

  • https://www.instagram.com/studioguerassio/
  • https://www.studioguerassio.com/
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaguerassio/

Resources mentioned in the audit:

  • PR Pitch Template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/136GStYqRGpF1Gg6qoTGlJPiHuSrEjSBSr1uryxhl2Kk/edit?usp=sharing
  • My favorite SEO tool: ubersuggest.com

Submit to be the next business Lauren live-audits on the podcast: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQ_zcUrCAUy8QbvEeAxKjjb25PKAMmr9FhsSfW6v05GgiMew/viewform?usp=sf_link 

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Your best marketing tool? Your website. In this episode, Lauren breaks down WHY it's your best marketing tool and how to make it an optimal marketing tool for your brand.

Download the Metrics Mothership [free]: https://brandgoodtime.com/metrics-mothership

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenloreto/
Follow me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

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We're kicking off season 4 (!!!) of She's Busy Af with a ~different~ kind of eppie. Grab a margarita (or a seltzer water) and kick your feet up as Lauren talks about all the things she's currently obsessed with in and outside of business. We're talking SEO, candied jalapeños, Real Housewives of New York + more.

Have a topic request? Head to the website to submit: www.shesbusyaf.com
Connect with us on Instagram @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

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Are trade shows and conferences stale marketing tactics? Is participating in a trade show or conference a good fit for your business? How do you maximize your visibility at trade shows and conferences? Find out why this is one of my favorite marketing tactics in business.

Let me help you build your marketing plan: brandgoodtime.com/client-intake-form 

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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Are media kits dead? How do you negotiate more money in brand deals? What is a digital creator? In this week’s episode, Lauren chats with Hannah Wallner of Mad Rad Media about how brand deals aren’t just to be had with influencers and how you can leverage more money with brand partnerships as an entrepreneur.

Connect with Hannah

  • https://madrad.co/
  • https://www.instagram.com/madradmedia/

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How do you implement honest, authentic marketing into your business? Why does being an honest marketer matter? Lauren reveals 5 marketing strategies in this episode to help you be an authentic marketer, attracting a tribe of GOOD business that stands the test of time.

  • Work with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us
  • Submit a topic request: shesbusyaf.com

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How do you increase the customer lifetime value? For service providers, this can seem tricky and/or daunting unless you have an agency with multiple service offerings. Tune in to learn how you can make small tweaks (and even just get flat-out creative) in your service suite to increase the lifetime value of your clients as a done-for-you service provider. 

  • Purchase the Marketing Strategy Template ($50 off with code BUSYAF): https://bit.ly/sbaf-90-day-template
  • Learn more about Marketing Strategy Intensive & work with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us

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What is marketing? What is sales? When do marketing and sales intersect? Learn the true difference between marketing and sales and why you can’t blame marketing for lack of sales.

Purchase the Marketing Strategy Template ($50 off with code BUSYAF): https://bit.ly/sbaf-90-day-template

Learn more about Marketing Strategy Intensive & work with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us

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How do you audit your website to make sure it’s conversion-friendly? Why is saying welcome on your website a major no-no? Why should you have a website strategy BEFORE hiring a designer? This week, Krista Walsh spills all the secrets so bring your notebook and get ready to take some website-conversion notes!

  • Get the DIY website audit checklist: https://bit.ly/website-audit-shes-busy-AF
  • Connect with Krista online: https://www.kristawalshcopywriter.com/
  • Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristawalshcopywriter/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristawalshcopywriter/

Get the scribe tool that allows you to create chapters for how-tos: https://scribehow.com/

Connect with me on social: instagram.com/brandgoodtime

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Is it possible to get clients without using social media? In this  episode, Lauren talks about the three strategies that led to her best month in business and how you can implement them, too.

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime Learn more about Marketing Strategy Intensive & with us: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-us

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Grab a glass of tequila (or whatever you prefer) and listen to business and life updates/rants from Lauren!

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How to enter the workforce in today’s day and age? What does the future of work look like (especially for Generation Z?) These are all questions we answer + discuss in this new installment of “Article Club” on the She’s Busy AF Podcast. 

Link to article: https://www.inc.com/magazine/202011/vickie-an/zach-sims-codecademy-training-education-future-of-business-2020.html

Find Jen online:

  • Instagram.com/neat.marketing
  • www.neatmarketingllc.com

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How to balance family and business? Does balance really exist? In this week’s episode, I’m getting vulnerable and talking about my challenges and struggles in trying to ‘do it all’ as well as sharing some tips for how I have found ways to ‘balance’ the load of family, friendships, and work.

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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So often our care of self can take a backseat among all the things we do as entrepreneurs. Livia, a lifestyle designer, shares all things prioritizing YOU in the midst of it all.

Find her online (and check out her SUPER CUTE website): www.madewithlemons.co www.instagram.com/madewithlemonsco
Check out her course, Clear Your Way to Calm: https://madewithlemons.co/clear-your-way-to-calm

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In this week’s shower thoughts turned ~ extremely ~ off the cuff podcast recording, I blind react to my 2021 business plan document (that I wrote at the end of 2020). In this episode, you’ll learn how I plan for my ‘best year’ and laugh with me at some of the plans I had for 2021 that DEFINITELY didn’t happen. 

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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The queen of reels (and former vine-famous star) Bailey Thibodeaux hops on the She’s Busy AF podcast to share her tips on making your brand more personal to attract the right clients for your business.

Find Bailey on Instagram @honeywavecreative and online at www.honeywavecreative.com. Download her website launch checklist here: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/60bd2402c06f960c53e04411 

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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Successful habits breed success, and in this episode, I’m sharing my top 5 habits that have led me to 3 years in a row of 6-figures in sales - habits you, too, can start implementing today!

Get $10 off your Riverside.fm subscription with code LAUREN!

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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Networking the RIGHT way doesn’t mean tossing out your business cards like confetti. In this episode, Meredith Mitnick of MRM Career Coaching sheds light on how to build your professional network authentically to ultimately boost visibility and profits in your business.

Connect with her on Instagram: @mrmcareercoaching and visit her website www.mrmcareercoaching.com
Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbafConnect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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The marketing funnel: having one and DEFINING it is an absolutely necessary component to a strong marketing strategy. In this episode, I’m going to break down each stage of the marketing funnel and how you can build one for your business to start funneling in right-fit leads.

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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*LinkedIn can feel very suit-and-tie and sometimes posting an LOL or 'hahaha' in comments can feel wrong - but it doesn't need to.

LinkedIn is just like any other social platform (and you can 500% be yourself) except your ideal client can be RIGHT in front of you, and the algorithm is the most favorable of all social platforms (in our opinion). In this episode, I interview Haley of Propegy (a LinkedIn Lead Gen agency) and she breaks down how to really leverage this platform to land clients for your business.*

Connect with Haley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-e-johnson/
Check out her company & services: https://thepropegy.com/
Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf
Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf

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Consultants, strategists, and service providers: this one is for you. I know that increasing the lifespan of a client can do so many amazing things for your business: guarantee income for longer, allow you to grow in different ways, etc.

In this episode, I’m going to dish out 6 strategies you can start implementing in your business today to start ensuring not only client retention but signing on clients for longer-term from the start. 

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker:
https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram:@shesbusyaf@brandgoodtime

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Bad investments can not only cause you to have PTSD when looking to invest again, but they can very well also tank your business. In today’s episode, I go over 5 investments to make in your business and WHEN to know it’s time to make them. 

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: (Lauren Loreto) & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf @brandgoodtime

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Being an entrepreneur means you have to be ready, willing, and able to take risks - calculated risks. In many cases, the due diligence that is necessary for taking these risks is, well, not considered. Why is this? My opinion: there's not enough education that exists around starting a business and what's necessary to do so. 

What happens as a result: a number of things. Failed businesses. Burnt-out founders. And a departure from entrepreneurship back to 'Corporate America.' I sat down and gathered stories from 3 entrepreneurs who left their businesses went back to 'Corporate' in some capacity. They all had one BIG thing in common that is attributed to their departure. Listen to find out!

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect me on LinkedIn: Lauren Loreto & follow with me on Instagram: @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: brandgoodtime.com/work-with-me

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I'm excited to be back for another episode of She's Busy AF! In today's episode, Im sharing my life as a new mom. A snippet of my birth story when things didn't go as planned and exciting things coming up for She's Busy AF Podcast for 2022!

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbafConnect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Who says you’re too young to be an entrepreneur? In this week’s episode, I talk with Sharon Brand, owner of Brands Media Group, about being a young entrepreneur and lessons learned - such as not just taking on clients for the money and having to make tough decisions in order to keep your business on the up.

Follow Sharon online:

@brandsmediagroup  //  https://brandsmediagroup.com/

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Do you want to stand out in your oversaturated niche? In today's episode of She's Busy AF, Im sharing my top tips on how you can stand out and get more clients. These strategies helped me both in my marketing agency and mentorship business hitting 6 figures and repeat clients.

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbafConnect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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As entrepreneurs, one thing rings true for everyone: we are (and should be) extremely protective of our time. In this episode of She’s Busy AF, Alexa Cawley of Forever Friday Consulting and I discuss how our corporate backgrounds shaped how we run our businesses.

Follow Alexa online:

@foreverfriday.co // www.foreverfriday.co

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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If you had been advised to buy FB ads early on your product-based business, hold up and hear me out. In today's episode of She' Busy AF, Im sharing my marketing strategies for product-based businesses. These are strategies I have used with my clients. Also, Im sharing a special offer that you don't want to miss out so make sure to listen till the end of the episode., 

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbafConnect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Public relations can be the difference between being ‘just another brand’ and being the biggest thought leader in your industry - TRUTH. In this episode, Christina Bizzell of Confetti Creative Co tells all about why PR is so crucial for business, who PR is best suited for, and breaks out her top 3 recommendations for kick-starting your PR efforts. 

Connect with Christina

  • @confetticreative.co
  • www.facebook.com/confetticreativepr

Work with Christina www.confetticreative.co

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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If you are ready for 2022 to be the most EPIC and PROFITABLE year then this is a must-listen episode for you! In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I break down a step by step on how to prep for your business in 2022.  

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbafConnect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Believe it or not, the algorithm is hurting artists. The pressure to keep up with content to positively impact the chances of being ‘seen’ is just unrealistic for most artists who truly spend their time ‘creating.’ In this episode, Chloe talks about this, what she wants to see for social media platforms, and how she stays busy and has pivoted some of her art career (for the better) to combat the algorithm challenges.

Connect with Chloe

  • @chloew.art

Work with Chloe: https://chloeelizabethcreative.com/

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Having a strong work ethic is one of the most important attributes of a successful business. In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I am sharing my best practices in developing work ethics. These helped me to have loyal clients, referral partners and scaled my business to six figures.

Download my (free) secret sales weapon, the Lucrative AF Lead Tracker: https://bit.ly/llt-sbaf

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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In today's episode of She's Busy AF, Im sharing how I am babyproofing my business a.k.a doing all the prep before my baby arrives. I am totally new to motherhood and I am excited for this challenge. If you are a mom, mom, to be or you want tips on how to plan in advance for your bsuiness I am sure you can learn from this episode.

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Unqualified entrepreneurs, brand authenticity, hiring the RIGHT people in your business, and kicking social media to the curb (ish). In this week’s episode, Taylor Graham of Socially Taylored comes on She’s Busy AF to not hold back for a second on all of the above polarizing and controversial topics.

Connect with Taylor

  • @taygrahambiz
  • @sociallytaylored
  • @ceoishpodcast

Work with Taylor: www.sociallytaylored.com

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Have you been thinking it's time to cut loose with your client? They either cross your boundaries, pay late for your invoices or stumble upon scope creep. Whichever reason you have for firing your clients, I got you! In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm gonna share when to fire clients and the ethical way to do it with grace and professionalism.   

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Do you want a thriving and sustainable business? Numbers and data don’t lie. They tell you EVERYTHING you need to know about how to improve the state of your business.

In today's episode of She's Busy AF, we have LoriAnn Kuntz. LoriAnn is a bookkeeper for creatives, and today she spills her secrets for how you can be the best bookkeeper for your biz, understand the numbers, and begin to predict accurately the financial forecast of your business… so you can make some major money moves!

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

WORK WITH ME : msha.ke/brandgoodtime Find Loriann online

  • Website: www.loriannkuntz.com
  • Instagram: @loriannkuntz.co
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loriannkuntz.co
  • Blog Post: https://www.loriannkuntz.com/blog/bookkeepervsaccountant
  • DIY Money Manager spreadsheet: https://www.loriannkuntz.com/DIY code SHESBUSYAF for 15% off

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In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm very excited to share my journey with you from working in corporate to an agency owner, and now a marketing mentor for entrepreneurs. It's been a crazy a fulfilling journey. I'm also gonna share my top 4 sustainability tips that helped me reached 6 figures in my business. 

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Data-Driven Money Moves Program: https://bit.ly/data-driven-money-moves

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If you are a coach or service provider I'm sure you have seen every social media post how to scale to $10K, $20K, $50K months and hire a full team but what if the real key to a richer and more fulfilling business was not to create and scale-up but rather, to be able to work for yourself, determine your own hours and become a (highly profitable) and sustainable company of one? In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm gonna share why I'm anti-growth but before you roll your eyes I encourage you to tune in because will help you gain a new perspective and make you think about why you started your business in the first place plus I break down exactly how to run a successful business (on your terms) with my 4 biggest tips

Driven Money Moves: https://bit.ly/data-driven-money-moves

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

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Client Experience Specialist Annie Camin joins me on the She’s Busy AF Podcast to talk about just that: Client Experience. We have quite the triggering conversation - identifying tell-tale signs of coaches/service providers with a poor Client Experience. Annie also shares her 3 main tips for assessing your own Client Experience.

Find her on Instagram: instagram.com/annie_camin

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Have you been thinking of joining a mastermind? If you are, then you are in for a treat! In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm gonna share my hot take on masterminds. Things you should consider before joining one or is it worth it to join in your stage in business. Also, learn from my experience I launched my own mastermind program and why it didn't work for me.

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me: msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Have you reached client capacity? Feeling burned out as a service provider? Adding consulting as a part of your business may be the solution for you. In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm sharing how to structure your consulting business and why it could be a game-changer for your business. Consulting has been extremely lucrative for me and a huge part of my income and I can't wait to share all the deets with you!

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Consulting Masterclass Replay: ttps://bit.ly/consulting-masterclass

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Andrea Barnhill, Director of Operations for Socratik (a boutique SEO agency) joins me as my first VIRTUAL guest on the She’s Busy AF podcast to talk about how in just 3 short years, she and her co-founder were able to start the business and scale it by 433%. Andrea dishes all her tips around scaling, hiring, and having the best possible client experience to continue to scale internally.

Find Socratik & Andrea Online

Socratik

  • Website: https://socratik.agency/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/socratik-agency/

Andrea

  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socratikagency/
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-barnhill-7b220766/

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

WORK WITH ME :  msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Excited to share some personal updates with you all! In today's episode of She's Busy AF,  I'm sharing details on things they didn't tell you about pregnancy, our wedding plans, how I manage to do it all (i don't do it all) and the beauty of having your own online business.

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

WORK WITH ME :  msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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We all heard about the 6 figures launches and sales in six months but did anyone share the mistakes and failures they had before being successful entrepreneurs? If you feel defeated because you are not where you are right now and everyone is talking all about their success and you feel like you are not there yet or worst far from it. Questioning yourself if there is something wrong with you, my friend this episode is for you. Every successful entrepreneur has a series of failures and mistakes behind them and I'm sharing mine on today's episode of She's Busy AF, don't give up just yet.

Connect with me on Instagram!         @brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

Smooth Scaling Club:  bit.ly/smooth-scaling-club

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Entrepreneurship can sometimes be a lonely journey to embark on. When you are growing your business, you want to be surrounded by like minded goal-getters where you can bounce ideas off and be inspired by each other to grow and thrive. In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I have my biz bestie Danielle and Maya on the show to share our journey as an entrepreneur. The challenges we faced and how we overcome them by having a community to lean on. Entrepreneurship can be fun when you have your biz bestie cheering for you!

Join the Smooth Scaling Club! bit.ly/smooth-scaling-club

Connect with Maya & Danielle on IG: instagram.com/yawrite_

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If you want to achieve your goals, it requires a different level-up version of you every time and sometimes the biggest obstacle you'll ever have to overcome is YOU. If you want to rise above yourself than yesterday tune in to today's episode of She's Busy AF, on how to get out of your own way.

Connect with me on Instagram!         @brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

Learn how you can work with me:msha.ke/brandgoodtime

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Having case studies is crucial for business growth, expansion, and generating leads. Whether you are a coach, mentor, consultant, or service provider. Potential clients want proof and not just testimonials.  In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm sharing how you can create a client-converting case study.

Connect with me on Instagram!         @brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

Sign up for Camp Good Time: bit.ly/camp-good-time

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As an entrepreneur do you know what's next for your business? In today's episode of She's Busy AF, we are talking about growth and expansion and knowing what's the next thing for your business. I'm also sharing steps on how to predict what's next for your business so you can build it in a  sustainable and innovative way.

Connect with me on Instagram!         @brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

Sign up for Camp Good Time: bit.ly/camp-good-time

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When you understand the sales cycle, you can experience success more consistently. In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm excited to share what is a sale cycle, signs you have a bulletproof sales cycle in your business, and a bonus tip on how to keep a consistent flow of sales in your business.

Connect with me on Instagram!         @brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

Camp Good Time: bit.ly/camp-good-time
Get 50% off your HoneyBook subscription: http://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtime

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As the famous Steve Jobs said, "Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower" and that my friends are one of the ways to have your business stand between the test of time. Innovation and expansion are part of a successful entrepreneur. Today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm excited to share with you 4 ways to innovate and expand your business.

Connect with me on Instagram!
* @brandgoodtime * @shesbusyaf

Social Media is Dead Masterclassbrandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/social-media-is-dead-masterclass

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In today's episode of Tequila Friday is a very special one, I'm talking about a major life update. Getting engaged with the love of my life. How he proposed and my anti-cats story. Also, a very unexpected surprise happened. Can you guess? Make sure to tune in until the end. 

Connect with me on Instagram!

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

Social Media is Dead Masterclassbrandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/social-media-is-dead-masterclass

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Have you felt burned out lately by social media? You want to connect more with potential clients but being on Instagram, TikTok, Clubhouse, Facebook Groups makes you feel overwhelmed? I have good news for you! You can still get clients without social media. Yes, you heard that right. Sounds impossible? Definitely not! Tune in on today's episode to learn more. 

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

  • Camp Good Time

brandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/social-media-is-dead-masterclass

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Have you ventured into adding PR strategy to grow your business? The reality is growing your business and attracting clients is that your clients aren't on social media always. This is where PR strategy will come along and in today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm gonna share my 3 tips in building a profitable PR strategy that leads me to have a multiple six-figure year.   

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

  • Camp Good Time

https://brandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/camp-good-time-pre-pre-sale/

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So you want to attend in-person networking but don't know what to say or you want to approach someone but you feel awkward in starting the conversation. Don't fret because in today's episode of She's Busy AF, I am sharing conversation starters so you can network confidently and keep the conversation going. 

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

  • Camp Good Time

https://brandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/camp-good-time-pre-pre-sale/

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In this episode of She's Busy AF, a continuation of the previous episode about Networking which has been the main driving force in scaling my business.  I go more in-depth on how to connect with people in an authentic non-icky way. You don't want to miss a special announcement at the end of the episode.

Connect with me!

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

  • Camp Good Time Presale

https://brandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/camp-good-time-pre-pre-sale/

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Networking has been a game-changer in my business. It helped me doubled my income and it's been the driving force of recurring business for me and referrals. I want to share with you exactly how I did that in today's episode of She's Busy AF. Ready to get started? I will also share where to find those events where you can spread a good word on your business and meet awesome people. Stay tuned till the end for an amazing announcement!

**Connect with me!**

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime


       

@shesbusyaf


Camp Good Time Waitlist*

http://bit.ly/camp-good-time-waitlist

  • Website

https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Are you looking to have a passive income but you don't think it's possible because you are not a coach? In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I am spilling the beans on how to make money in your sleep as a service provider.  You'll walk away with ideas you can instantly implement to add more revenue to your business.

Have you experienced losing a prospect to your "competition"? Then you overthink what you did wrong?  Did I not provide enough value? Was she/he better than me?

In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm sharing why your only competition is yourself and how to overcome the fear of losing a prospect.

Connect with me!

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime

  @shesbusyaf

  • Smooth Scaling Club

https://brandgoodtime.com/smooth-scaling-club/

  • Website

https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Have you experienced losing a prospect to your "competition"? Then you overthink what you did wrong?  Did I not provide enough value? Was she/he better than me?

In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I'm sharing why your only competition is yourself and how to overcome the fear of losing a prospect.

Connect with me!

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime

@shesbusyaf

  • Smooth Scaling Club

https://brandgoodtime.com/smooth-scaling-club/

  • Website

https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Are you ready to hire a team member that will help you grow your business? In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I talked about when to know if you are ready to hire help for your service-based business, why is it important and how it can help you grow your business. Hiring team members have been life-changing for me and it can for you too!

Connect with me!

  • Instagram

@brandgoodtime
@shesbusyaf

  • Website

https://brandgoodtime.com/

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The first-ever episode of Tequila Friday is here! On every Tequila  Friday's we drink Tequila with some guest and pour our heart out from random life musings to business rants.

In this episode, you'll get to know me more from my favorite drink (duh, Tequila) to my personal life. Be sure to tune in till the last seconds for some fun rapid-fire questions.

Connect with me!

  • Instagram-
  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

  • Website- https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Are you scaling or growing your business? In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I am sharing what it means to scale or grow your business and how to know if your business is ready for it. I also shared ways on how you can effectively scale your business.

Smooth Scaling Club: http://Bit.ly/smooth-scaling-club

Connect with me!

  • Instagram-
  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

  • Website- https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Isn't it every service-based entrepreneurs dream to work and retain clients? The one that you are inspired to work with every day. The one that doesn't feel like work but more fun. In today's episode of She's Busy AF, I break down these 4 ways on how you can work and retain GOOD clients. Messaging, boundaries. marketing and networking.

Smooth Scaling Club Waitlist: http://bit.ly/smoothscaling

Connect with me!

  • Instagram-
  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

  • Website- https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Building authority is so important if you have an online service-based business. If people know you are the go-to expert in your niche, you'll attract more leads in your business and that's what we will be talking about on this episode of She's Busy AF! Plus an exciting announcement till the end so make sure to tune in!

Smooth Scaling Club Waitlist: http://bit.ly/smoothscaling

Connect with me!

  • Instagram-
  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

  • Website- https://brandgoodtime.com/

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If you are looking for a sign to enjoy your weekend instead of working, this is it!

In this episode of She's Busy AF, I'm sharing my top hacks on how to better manage your time and be productive. Because burn out is no FUN and as an entrepreneur, one of our most valuable resources is our time, energy, ideas and focus.

Check out Monday.com

Connect with me!

Instagram

  • @brandgoodtime
  • @shesbusyaf

  • Website- https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Today on She’s Busy AF, we’re talking about teams. Having a team is a MUST as an entrepreneur. Entrepreneurs take risks and creating a team is one of those risks, but it comes with high rewards when you do it right. 

In this episode, I break down the four key members of a business operation you need to have before starting to hire employees and why these team members are helpful to business owners. 

Whether you just started your business or you’re already on that growth journey, these are the people you need to have by your side to have a successful, organized company. 

Resource mentioned:

Get 50% off your first year of Honeybook:

http://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtime

Connect with me!

Visit my website: www.brandgoodtime.com 

Follow me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/brandgoodtime

Follow the She’s Busy AF Podcast on Instagram: www.instagram.com/shesbusyaf

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Why is scalability important for today's businesses? If you observe, you'll see that most service-providing businesses and agency models aren't scalable. And the reason for this is you're trading all of your one on one time for money, but drastically increasing your prices is not a viable option to go for. So, how does your business stand out against your competitors in the market? Listen in to the episode today to learn how to build your scalable service suite. 

If you love today’s episode, please leave a review and subscribe to the She’s Busy AF podcast. Also, please remember to share the podcast with your entrepreneur friends who you think will enjoy and learn from it.

Reference Links

  • Workshop Details- https://brandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/scalabe-af-services-workshop

Connect with me on Instagram @brandgoodtime and @shesbusyaf Learn more about me on https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Looking back over the last five years, during my entrepreneurial journey, when I was running my boutique digital marketing agency. I can see many of the things I wish I had done differently. If you are a service-based entrepreneur, today’s episode is just the right one for you to begin with. Join me as I share the 4 things I wish I'd done differently and the lessons I have learned when I had my 6 figure boutique digital marketing agency for 5 years. 

If you love today’s episode, please leave a review and subscribe to the She’s Busy AF podcast. Also, please remember to share the podcast with your entrepreneur friends who you think will enjoy and learn from it.

Reference Links

●  Get 50% off your first year of Honeybook- http://share.honeybook.com/brandgoodtime

Connect with me on Instagram @brandgoodtime and @shesbusyaf Learn more about me on https://brandgoodtime.com/

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Entrepreneurship is no comfortable space to land into, and the absence of a good mentor could make it all the more difficult for anybody wanting to begin. Back during the time when I embarked on this journey, a mentor was definitely not as accessible as it is now. So you might want to ask, how did you get to this point of building, scaling, and eventually selling your business? In the pilot episode, I share my crazy backstory with you. Tune in as I tell you how I built, scaled, and sold my previous marketing business, became a mentor and what it took to get me to where I am now. 

If you love today’s episode, please leave a review and subscribe to the She’s Busy AF podcast. Also, please remember to share the podcast with your entrepreneur friends who you think will enjoy and learn from it.

Reference Links

  • Workshop Details- https://brandgoodtime.thrivecart.com/scalabe-af-services-workshop

Connect with me on Instagram @brandgoodtime and @shesbusyaf Learn more about me on https://brandgoodtime.com/