Offbeat Grad: Recent Episodes
Samantha Tetrault
Offbeat Grad is for everyone 100% done with cubicles and the 9-5. Join host Samantha Tetrault as she talks to some of the leading ladies making their own offbeat paths after graduation! We talk about blogging, marketing, freelancing, and making money online so you can finally break up with your day job.
We're back! Let's end 2020 by diving into my income report, what worked, and what didn't. Freelancing and blogging have their ups and downs, and it's been a long road to get here. Let's check-in and talk about the future of this podcast.
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- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Do you know the signs of burnout? If you're a freelancer or blogger, it's hard to feel "okay" with feelings of burnout, so it's important to recognize the signs before they develop into something bigger. Better yet, know what to do to handle these feelings and make a change.
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- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
You've likely heard about money mindsets and how they affect the amount of income you have coming into your life. In reality, this "money mindset" ignores a lot of privilege and does more harm than good. Here are my thoughts on the money mindset and how it's used to put people down.
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- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
If you've been on TikTok recently, you might have noticed the new trend of get-rich-quick scams. These "magic" opportunities to make money online in seconds are predatory, and I'm sharing what to look out for.
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- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Here you have it, folks. The actual tools, apps, and software I use each day as a full-time freelancer. As a one-woman show, it's important to find tools and apps that make my life easier and do the heavy lifting for my business. Here are my favorites and some of my newest finds.
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- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
During and after the COVID19 pandemic, will freelancing become the new normal for professionals and beyond? We dive deep into Upwork's mid-2020 survey of 6,000 freelancers to see what's expected on the horizon for today's freelancers.
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- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today, I chat with Kate of Work Well with Kate all about automating and scaling your freelance business or blog. Whether you're a creator or freelancer, you need to make the most of your time and your goals while also avoiding burnout. Kate is a pro at doing just that and empowering freelancers to take back their time!
CONNECT WITH KATE
- Work Well With Kate Blog
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
As someone who has spent the past few years freelancing full-time, I'm answering more of your questions about freelancing, blogging, and working from home! From taxes to managing your schedule, how do I handle it?
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
If you're a freelancer, client onboarding can make or break your business and your relationships with clients. Learn my strategy, as well as the mistakes I've made in the past. From there, you'll know how to create the perfect onboarding strategy as a freelancer.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Welcome to my rant into the void about why inspiration is a made-up thing that doesn't exist. Luckily, you never needed it to be productive, whether you're a creative or a more "traditional" worker. Here's how to create a productivity routine.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
For Offbeat Grad's 100th episode, I chat with Darrian Chamblee of Made in Mom Jeans all about how she started her blog and her online community from scratch. She's a pro at utilizing new types of content and talking to her followers one-on-one, so listen in to discover her best tips to boost engagement.
CONNECT WITH DARRIAN
- Made in Mom Jeans Blog
- Literally Though Podcast
- Darrian's Instagram
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
For this episode, I'm joined by my blogger & freelancer friend Amanda of The Happy Arkansan. Amanda's a full-time freelancer, and she recently transitioned to a full-time remote working position with one of her long-time clients. She shares how to utilize your network to increase your opportunities and the unique advantages of working remote vs. working freelance.
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Ambitious Freelancer Blog
- The Ambitious Freelancer Podcast
- The Happy Arkansan
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Does travel blogging exist during a pandemic? I sat down with Amy from The Florida Travel Girl blog to see how she's adjusting her strategy during COVID19. With fewer people traveling, how can you adjust your strategy to make sure you're still staying branded and building an audience?
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Realistic Ways to Make Money Online (Blog Post)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com
2020 has been wild so far and we're only just over halfway through! It's time to adjust your content strategy to meet the new winds of change, and that means leading with empathy. In this episode, I chat about how to adjust your content strategy to meet the current pandemic and social justice concerns.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Realistic Ways to Make Money Online (Blog Post)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com
What do you do when your traffic suddenly drops on your blog? The answer is not to panic! Here are some ways to help your website both in the short and long-term. No panic necessary!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Realistic Ways to Make Money Online (Blog Post)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com
Content mills are one of the most controversial things in the world of online work. Are content mills worth your time? When should you consider using them, and what should you do to make sure the one you use is worth it? Listen to this episode for tips from someone who used to write for content mills!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Realistic Ways to Make Money Online (Blog Post)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com
FIXED UPLOAD - Working from home is hard enough already. When you have to work from home with a loved one, partner, or roommate, it's even more of a challenge. Having someone else there 24/7 (like during a pandemic) takes a lot of adjustment. These tips make it a bit easier!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Realistic Ways to Make Money Online (Blog Post)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
What a time to be alive! If you find yourself with less work than usual (or no work at all), here's what to do. From staying connected to diversifying income, try these tips. We'll get through this!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Realistic Ways to Make Money Online (Blog Post)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Hi, friends! I hope everyone is safe and sound amidst so much turmoil. There's a lot happening in the world of freelancing and blogging things to COVID-19, and now is the time to adapt.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you handle rejection? This is a huge part of being a freelancer. You'll hear "no" probably as many times as you hear yes. From having pitch rejections to client project rejections, these coping strategies keep things in perspective.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today I'm joined by the talented Amanda Cross of the Happy Arkansan and the Ambitious Freelancer. She's a content management guru here to help you defeat overwhelm around creating content for your website, clients, or blog. She shares her favorite tools, resources, and strategies for keeping it all together and staying productive.
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Ambitious Freelancer Blog
- The Ambitious Freelancer Podcast
- The Happy Arkansan
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
What are the 3 things all freelancers need to succeed? They might surprise you! From legal understanding to economic security, these are the things we all want out of our freelancing experiences.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Blogging has come a long way in the past few years. Aside from the latest trends, what's new in blogging in 2020? What can you expect from the blogging community and working with brands?
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you manage to work with a client? What's the process like from start to finish? I detail my entire strategy in this episode, starting with negotiation and going through to sending your invoice.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
With more and more freelancing "scams" out there, it's important to be aware about what freelancing IS and what it ISN'T. It's not for everyone, so make sure you think critically about whether it's really a good fit for you before you start.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Have you ever wondered where the day went? If your work is getting away from you, try time mapping on for size. This is such a unique way to ratio your time effectively!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Imposter syndrome is when you feel like a fraud or like you've only made it this far by luck. In reality, imposter syndrome affects 70% of both men and women. In this episode, I'm sharing my own experience with feeling like a fraud as well as how to fight it.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Website hosting is understandably complicated. How do you know what you need to get started, and how do you know when it's time to upgrade? I'm sharing my website server story to help inform you about which decision is best.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Here are the best healthy habits to keep your body and mind in top shape in 2020 and beyond! All told from a very stressed, overworked freelancer—so you know it's trustworthy.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Happy New Year! We're breaking down the latest trends in blogging, freelancing, and beyond. What can you expect to see happening in the blogging and freelancing community? What should you focus on in the next few months?
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Let's take a trip down memory lane to see how freelancing has changed in the past 5 years. We'll also talk about the new world of blogging, this next decade, and what's been happening with the new freelancer law in California.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
We're talking about money! This episode is all about how much I'm making, how much I made last year, and my financial year in review. Being open about money is really important to me so I hope you enjoy this chat!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Did you know California has a new freelancer law in 2020? It's creating quite the stir in the gig economy and for a good reason. Learn about AB 5 and what it means for freelancers in California and beyond in this week's episode.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today I'm chatting with Nicolette of The Grown Up Millennial. She's an experienced blogger and podcaster, and she helps young people manage adulthood one step at a time. We're talking all about imposter syndrome and the worry that things will never be "perfect."
CONNECT WITH THE GROWN UP MILLENNIAL
- The Grown Up Millennial
- Podcast
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you take time off during the holiday season? What about regular vacations? With 92% of freelancers reportedly working while taking time off, it's more important than ever to balance your work vs. your personal life. Here are my tips for taking time off!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Join me on a drunken ride through freelancing and money and blogging and life. This is not a structured podcast! For more structured advice or information, look elsewhere!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I'm answering your questions and the internet's questions about freelancing and working online! Whether you want to know how to type faster or how to deal with a procrastinating client, this episode is for you.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Do you know how much money you make as a freelancer or blogger? Tracking your income and expenses when you work online is a must to prepare for tax season and set accurate goals. Here are my favorite tips and tools for tracking your income as a freelancer or blogger.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today I'm joined by Isabelle of Capulet Mag and Unrecommended. She recently moved to NYC to pursue more work opportunities and get out of her home state. Moving can be hard! In this episode, we chat about how to manage a big move after college.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Freelancing is hard. It's not the pajama party and digital nomad lifestyle that it's made out to be. While online gurus might claim it's a great way to have more free time, it's harder than it looks. In this episode, I share the cold, hard realities of freelancing on your own.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Happy birthday to blogging! With so many years of blogging now behind us, what does the future bring? In this episode, I chat about the history of blogging and what this means for the next decade.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Have you given much thought to your privacy online? As a blogger or freelancer, your online privacy matters more than you think. Not only is your website at risk, but so is your safety and reputation. In this episode, I'm talking about what you can do to keep your online privacy secure as a blogger.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Welcome to the podcast episode! Yes, it's very meta. We love self-awareness! In this episode, you'll hear why I decided to start two podcasts as well as everything you need to know about starting one yourself. I'll share whether it's a good idea to start a podcast as a blogger or freelancer and how to get started.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
What are the highest paying freelance niches? Whether you're a writer, a designer, or a developer, these niches are the most in-demand! They also pay a pretty penny, so they're definitely something to keep an eye on if you're thinking of branching out.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How did I manage to get over 87,000+ spammy backlinks to my blog? It's a crazier story than you might think. Learn about backlink bombing, the shady world of blackhat SEO, and what it means for the future of my website.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you know when it's time to quit your job and work online? Today, I'm sharing how I knew when it was time to quit, as well as my tips for preparing to take the plunge. Whether you quit your job to freelance or blog, make sure you're ready!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today, I'm joined by Sara Miller, a full-time blogger and graphic designer. Sara's been graphic designing for a while now, so she shares her tips and tricks for getting started as a freelance graphic designer even if you have no experience.
CONNECT WITH SARA
- Sara Strives
- Sara Strives on Instagram
- Me, Myself, and You Podcast
- How to Become a Graphic Designer Full Blog Post
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Learn how to set boundaries as a blogger or freelancer. When working with clients, brands, or working from home, it's important to stay on top of your business hours and work schedule. Don't sacrifice your personal time for your work at home job! This episode features some tips for making sure your work and personal life stay separate.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Firing clients can be seriously hard. In this episode, I'm sharing my personal experience firing a long-term client as well as the worst red flags to keep an eye out for when choosing who to work with. Remember, as a blogger or freelancer, you're a business owner, not an employee.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today, I'm chatting with social media guru Mindy Marzec of Joy Social about legitimate ways to grow on Instagram. If you're tired of not seeing results, it turns out there's no "quick fix" to grow your account. That being said, Mindy has some actionable steps to take to build your account for your blog or business.
CONNECT WITH MINDY
- Social Media Toolkit
- ThisFairytaleLife Blog
- Joy Social
- Influencer Education Podcast
- Mindy's Instagram
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Learn how to prioritize what matters most as a blogger or freelancer. If you ever feel like you're wearing too many hats, this one's for you. Here are my best tips for getting more ton, maximizing your time, and making sure you're monetizing your business.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Find clients, get money. Today, I'm sitting down with Amanda Cross of the Happy Arkansan to talk about how to find clients online. We talk about what you need to start your client search as a freelancer and also where to search. From the well-known job listing sites to the unconventional, we'll inspire you to take this big step for your freelancing business.
RESOURCES
- Find That Email
- Email Hunter
- GSuite
- Mailtrack
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Happy Arkansan Blog
- Ambitious Freelancer Podcast
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Do you have a contract for your clients or brand partnerships? You totally should! In this episode, I'm giving you the scoop on why you need a contract, what should be in your contract, and how to make one easily. No lawyer experience necessary!
RESOURCES
- Free Contract Template
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you connect with brands and locations as a small travel blogger? Amy from the Florida Travel Girl shares all of her tips for attending local events and landing sponsorships no matter how big or small you are.
CONNECT WITH AMY
- TheFloridaTravelGirl.com
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Is your blog in need of a content audit? Most of us probably could take the time to refresh those old posts to bring in more money or traffic. In this episode, I'm chatting with Charlotte from This Girl Knows It to talk about conducting your own blog content audit.
CONNECT WITH CHARLOTTE
- This Girl Knows It
- Link Checker Plugin
- Content Audit Blog Post
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Do you have an Insta-fraud on your hands? Here's how to spot fake Instagram accounts who might be lurking around. Don't trust these "influencers" who manipulate users in this way.
RESOURCES
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
- Google Search Console
- Ubersuggest
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
This episode is dedicated to FTC disclosure rules and regulations for bloggers and influencers. I've you've ever wondered when to use #ad or other types of disclosures, this should clear up any confusion.
RESOURCES
- FTC's Guidelines for Bloggers
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
What the heck is Google's latest Core Update and what does it mean for your website? How the heck do you even do that SEO thing? Today, I'm sharing everything I know about the Core Update and preparing for a summer of SEO changes. Beyond that, we talk about SEO best practices, checking your page rankings, and listener questions.
RESOURCES
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
- Google Search Console
- Ubersuggest
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Oh affiliate marketing, why do you do me so dirty? Let's be real: affiliate marketing is hard. Today, I chat with Amanda Cross about how she's found success with affiliate marketing in this crazy online world. Listen to her her tips for the best programs and her secret formula for successful affiliate posts.
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Happy Arkansan Blog
- The Happiness Looks Like Me Podcast
- Amanda's Amazon Affiliate Post
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Five reasons why big bloggers are successful and you aren't. Get ready for the cold, hard truth! And also some much-needed reminders.
PINTEREST RESOURCES
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
- Tailwind Free Trial
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Sara from Sara Strives joined me to chat about the hustle mindset and how it can be toxic. We'll talk about what exactly this mindset is, where it comes from, and how it can be used as a marketing tactic.
CONNECT WITH SARA
- Sara Strives
- Work From Home Mental Health Tips Blog Post
- Sara's Instagram
PINTEREST RESOURCES
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
- Tailwind Free Trial
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Pinterest is changing rapidly. If you've noticed a drop in traffic and Pinterest views, you're not alone. Here's everything I know about the changing algorithm, as well as what you can do to actually get your views up.
PINTEREST RESOURCES
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
- Tailwind Free Trial
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I'm all about Pinterest in this episode. We're chatting about the most common Pinterest mistakes I see today, as well as what you can do about it. I also share some of my strategy for driving traffic to your blog with Pinterest. Basically, it's time to use Pinterest.
PINTEREST RESOURCES
- No-Nonsense Pinterest Course (use code OFFBEATGRAD for 50% off)
- Revamp Your Pinterest Free Course
- Tailwind Free Trial
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Stop believing these SEO myths! Some are just full-out wrong while others are more complex than you think. The more you know about SEO, the better equipped your website will be to compete in this crazy online world.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
You asked so I answered. I'm answering all of your questions about freelancing and beyond! Note, I'm super rambly and confusing at the beginning. I blame the stress of moving!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Did you know your Instagram giveaway is most likely illegal? It's true. Instagram giveaways are acting as an illegal lottery, and the FTC is cracking down on these lotteries to hold bloggers and brands accountable. Here's how to host a giveaway ethically and up to the FTC's guidelines.
GIVEAWAY RESOURCES
- Is Your Contest an Illegal Lottery
- Why There Are So Many Illegal Social Media Contests
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Do you know how to price yourself as a blogger and freelancer? Hint: there's no magic formula. Forget everything you know about pricing and listen to this episode. We're debunking pricing myths and mistakes to help you value your work higher.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Upwork changed again! This time, they're charging freelancers to apply to gigs! Yikes! Or it is not so bad? I'll break it down for you here.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
You heard me right. I'm 100% over hearing your pyramid scheme / MLM pitch and no I don't want to buy your weight loss shakes. Here's another rant about how to spot MLM scams, why they suck, and how to protect yourself from becoming yet another statistic.
Anti MLM Resources
- Anti-MLM Podcasts
- AntiMLM Reddit
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Does Instagram leave you feeling exhausted as a blogger or freelancer? If so, you're not alone. Amanda Cross and I talk about everything that's frustrating about Instagram as well as our best tips for coping with that stress.
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Happy Arkansan Blog
- The Happiness Looks Like Me Podcast
- The Ambitious Freelancer Group on Facebook
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
You needed an email list, like, yesterday. This is especially true in light of the Instagram/Facebook apocalypse that happened recently. You don't own your followers. You only own your email list. Here's how to get one, use it wisely, and grow it quickly.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Mailchimp $30 Referral (Affiliate link)
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Have you ever wondered when this blogging business all started? This week we're doing something different and taking it wayyy back to 1994 to talk about how blogging got started. More importantly, we're discussing all the interesting moments that took blogging to where it is today.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
SOURCES (CREATIVE COMMONS)
- Web Designer Depot
- Justin Hall
- Skilled Magazine
- CydoniaOS
- Ezra Slayton
- JustinEqualsTime
- April Ray
- Vlogbrothers
- VindiciaTV
- Center for Research and Scholarship
- Jayd
- Jade Darmawangsa
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Do taxes have you feeling down? What about intimidated? It's true filing taxes when you're self-employed is complicated! In this episode, I'm sharing everything you need to know about filing your taxes so you can save money and prepare for next season.
TAX RESOURCES
- EFTPS
- Tax Deductions for Bloggers
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Blogging scams are out there, and you might be falling for them without realizing. In this episode, I'm talking about my controversial opinions and how prominent blogging scams are! From MLM schemes to online courses, here's what you have to look out for.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability (Click to read the full blog post)
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Working online in college was how I got out of my soul crushing part-time jobs! If you're looking for a PAID online gig that isn't a complete scam, listen to this episode. I'll be sharing all of my favorite remote, online working opportunities.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Read the full blog post
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Make 2019 the year of productivity! Do you have the right tools to help you get more done? From getting paid on time to keeping track of your tasks, I share my best free and paid tools for getting more done.
RECOMMENDED TOOLS
- Forest App
- Brain.FM
- Free Month of Tailwind
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Are you considering a rebrand for your blog or business? If so, listen to our tips for rocking your rebrand successfully. It's not as easy as changing your niche! You've gotta put in the work!
CONNECT WITH Charlotte
- This Girl Knows It
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Sara and I are back for Part 2 of our blogging & mental health series. In this episode, we share some valuable resources if you or someone you love is struggling with mental health or anxiety.
CONNECT WITH SARA
- Sara Strives
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Mental health is important. Like, the most important thing. Sara Miller of Sara Strives joins me to talk about her struggle with mental health as well as her recommendations specifically for college students, bloggers and freelancers. Even if you don't have a chronic mental health problem, it's vital you take some time to care for yourself.
CONNECT WITH SARA
- Sara Strives
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you master college blogging all in a single semester? Sensi of The Metamorphosis did exactly that, and we're chatting about what worked and what didn't. From Tailwind to niching down, listen to discover how Sensi makes college and post-grad blogging work for her.
CONNECT WITH SENSI
- The Metamorphosis
- How to Use Tailwind to Grow Your Blog
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
What trends can you expect to see in the blogging world in 2019? Listen as I share all that you have to look forward to in the New Year! From AI technology to influencer marketing, there's a lot that's changing.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Hello friends! I'm coming to you with the last episode of the year to talk about goal setting. What are SMART goals, why do you need them, and how do you make them? Also, visit the link below for a free download that helps you set up your own SMART goals.
SMART GOAL GUIDE
- Click here to download (It's FREE I promise!)
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
How do you keep from losing your mind when you're working at home full-time? I'm chatting alone to share how I keep sane and motivated even when things aren't going so well with my business and blog. Oh, and Happy Holidays!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Handling freelancing or blogging with a full-time job is sorta really hard. Isabelle and I discuss ways to make time for your "second shift" or creative outlet. We also get sidetracked a little bit. Okay, a lot.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
- Twilight Fanfiction Podcast (seriously)
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Howdy, friends! My recent-grad friend Isabelle and I chat about landing a big-girl job after college and managing the transition between college and full-time work. There's great advice for interviewing, landing a job, and working in an office!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
This week I'm chatting with Amanda Cross, the blogger behind TheHappyArkansan.com and AmandaCross.co! She's been blogging for 7 years and freelancing since she graduated from her master's program! We're sharing our top 10 tips for freelancing, whether you're a freelancer writer, designer, or whatever floats your boat. These tips are perfect for all levels of freelancers from beginners to experts.
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Happy Arkansan Blog
- Amanda Cross Co
- The Ambitious Freelancer Group on Facebook
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Happy Thanksgiving! I'm chatting to myself this week to answer your questions about blogging and freelancing. I'm talking about how to get your blog posts noticed on Instagram, how and when to schedule blog posts, and just how long it takes to start making money as a freelancer. Happy Holidays!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Ya girl is back to talking to herself this week. I'm sharing my top 5 controversial blogging opinions from my latest blog post. From pyramid schemes to SEO, I've got all the gossip straight from my years of bottling it up. What are your most controversial blogging opinions?
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today I'm chatting with Sara Wegman of SaraLaughed.com and CollegeCompass.co. She shares her journey through college and beyond, and how she's using her experience online as a way to gain an edge in her career. She's also the first programmer ever to be featured on Offbeat Grad, and she's got great advice for students and grads looking to get into the world of tech without any prior experience.
CONNECT WITH SARA
- Sara Laughed
- College Compass
MENTIONED RESOURCES
- Tree House Coding Degree
- Compliment Dash
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Amy of TheFloridaTravelGirl and I chat about how she discovered her passion for travel blogging. As a full-time engineer, travel blogging is a much-needed creative outlet, and it's allowed her to share her passion for Florida and the Space Coast. In this episode she shares how she is monetizing her blog as well as how she's carving out a unique niche for herself in the oversaturated world of travel bloggers.
CONNECT WITH AMY
- TheFloridaTravelGirl.com
MENTIONED RESOURCES
- Keywords Anywhere
- Mediavine
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I chat with College Life Made Easy co-founder Charlie and contributor Jade about how they got into college blogging. Believe it or not, they didn't start with the "traditional" college path, but boy have they made it work for them. They share their best tips for monetizing, creating fresh content, and staying relevant in a changing blog-o-sphere.
CONNECT WITH CHARLIE & JADE
- CollegeLifeMadeEasy.com
MENTIONED RESOURCES
- Keywords Anywhere
- Mediavine
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I'm back chatting to myself this time about portfolio websites. Why make one? Are they just for freelancers? More importantly, how do you actually make one that shines?
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Long term travel and working abroad is a dream of many, but how does it actually work? Shanti lived in Japan teaching English after college, and now she's backpacking around New Zealand while working from place to place. In this episode she talks about what you need to bring when you travel, and how to actually find a job abroad.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
What does it mean to "niche down?" How does it apply to blogging, freelancing, and building an Instagram audience? I sit at my desk and talk to you about what it means to niche down and how to find a profitable niche.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Who doesn't want to make money with their blog? It's easier than ever to day to become a legit, money-making blogger with these 5 different ways to monetize your blog.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Howdy, friends! I'm talking with my recent-grad friend Isabelle yet again to see how her job search is going. Hint: pretty hilariously. She shares her crazy job application stories and we talk about the realities of working online.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Here I am again talking to myself about how to build your traffic to 10k+ a month using Pinterest, social media, and quality content.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I sit down with a real-life recruiting and hiring manager who specializes in matching college students with their perfect post-grad job. She shares actionable tips for making a good first impression at career fairs, as well as how to stand out when applying online. Take notes! You won't want to miss these tips!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
CONNECT WITH BELINDA
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Today I'm sharing my freelancing story as well as real steps you can take to become a freelancer in any industry! These tips are actionable and easy to follow so you can build your freelance career today.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I am back and ready to chat to myself about SEO. We're talking white/black hat and real things you can do to improve your own search engine ranking. Hint: it's way easier than you think.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I'm back to my nonsense talking into a microphone alone again to answer all your questions. I'm talking about my daily routine as a freelancer, how many views you need before you can pitch brands, and how to put yourself out there. Plus, I share unnecessary tidbits about my eating habits and why noodles taste better with no sauce.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I bring my friend Isabelle back to see how her application process is going. Plot twist: she got an interview! Double plot twist: she turned it down! We veer off topic about to discuss our hatred for Norwegian Airlines, but we get back on track to break down how to write a killer cover letter.
CONNECT WITH ISABELLE
- Capulet Mag
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Is it possible to start a legit business after college? My Croatian friend Iva Soldo proves that it is in this episode by sharing her story starting Bamboo Lab. Now, she's an expert on all things digital marketing and she works from anywhere in the world. Iva talks about how she overcame her fears to start her business, the latest trends online today, and what she looks for when hiring candidates.
CONNECT WITH IVA & BAMBOO LAB
- BambooLab.eu
- Email Iva at soldoiva@gmail.com
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
I talk to myself today to share my feelings about the death of Boardbooster and what it means for your Pinterest strategy today. From optimizing your Pinterest profile to finding the right group boards, I'm talking about it all.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Working abroad after college is no joke! While it's a great way to see the world, it's not right for everyone. This week I chat with my good friend Shanti who is currently working her way around New Zealand! She talks about her experience teaching English in Japan and working while traveling around New Zealand. Listen to learn if working abroad after college is right for you plus top tips for how to actually afford your trip abroad!
FOLLOW SHANTI'S JOURNEY
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
This week I chat with the blogger and freelance writer behind TheHappyArkansan.com and AmandaCross.co! She's been blogging for 7 years and freelancing since she graduated from her master's program! We talk getting started as a freelancer, how to find clients, and what the heck to do with your liberal arts degree. Amanda also shares how she's mastered Upwork which is NOT an easy feat! Grab a coffee and follow along!
CONNECT WITH AMANDA
- The Happy Arkansan Blog
- Amanda Cross Co
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Got a question? Send me an email at hello@offbeatgrad.com!
Listen to me talk to myself in this Blogging FAQ featuring your questions from my Instagram post! Want to know how to start a blog, how to monetize your blog, and how to gain readers? Listen to the full episode to learn more!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Who doesn't love a good Millennial rant? For this episode, I talk to my mom about her experience with Millennials. We talk corporate careers and doing your own thing in a changing world. It gets messy.
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
Thanks for listening! Your host of Offbeat Grad is Samantha Tetrault, blogger and writer behind Samanthability.com. Offbeat Grad is for everyone who wants to try something new and make money online! Not sure if the 9-5 life is for you? You're not alone!
You've graduated, now what? Graduation is the most stressful part of college, so what comes next? Sam talks with recent grad Isabelle Rodriguez about her recent graduation from Flagler College and her latest plans. They talk about the panic of graduating and what not to do on a job application (hint: it involves snakes). Finally, they spill the tea on the most annoying people after graduation. Want more Offbeat Grad? Visit OffbeatGrad.com to read the blog and apply to be a guest on the next podcast!
CONNECT WITH THE SHOW
- Offbeat Grad Blog
- Samanthability
CONNECT WITH ISABELLE