Small-Minded Podcast: Recent Episodes
Molly Knuth
At Small-Minded, we are flipping the script on what it means to be small-minded because we believe that being small is a good thing. Small steps lead to big impact. Small towns have a big heart. And small businesses play a big role in our modern way of life. Here at small-minded, we share stories and strategies to help small towns and small businesses flourish. Here’s to a life well-lived being small-minded.
Back in May, I was on a Zoom with my friend Jill Carr, mapping out where this podcast is headed in 2026 and 2027, when something clicked. Not a big dramatic moment. Just that quiet click where somebody sees something about you that you're too close to see yourself, and the fog lifts.
Then I got off the call and went right back into the middle of a website rebuild, a personal brand strategy session, a discovery call with a stranger, and a late night typing my Human Design and Enneagram into Claude trying to figure out who I even am these days.
That's what rebuilding a business actually looks like. Not the shiny, wrapped-with-a-bow version I usually give you after the lessons are learned. This week I'm taking you into the messy middle while I'm still in it: four things I've been doing since April to lead myself, stay curious, get creative, and define my core.
What You'll Hear * Why I decided to rebuild Molly Knuth Media in April after my role at The Restoration Project came to a close * What "leading yourself" actually looks like when you're rebuilding (hint: it's not about how many posts you publish) * The client relationships that shaped this season, including a personal brand project with Lindsay Leahy and closing out my role at The Restoration Project alongside Brooke Fitzgerald * Why I applied for Leadership Iowa and what a few curiosity-driven coffee conversations have taught me about my own community * How I used Human Design, Enneagram, astrology, and CliftonStrengths (with an assist from Claude) to build myself a personal operating system * The "one new thing a day" challenge I started for my 39th year, and what it's taught me about staying creative
Resources & Links Mentioned * Leadership Iowa * CliftonStrengths Assessment * Human Design * Jessie J Home's Yap Challenge * Lindsay Leahy * The Restoration Project * Gravel Grading & Excavating
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Share This Episode If you know someone in their own messy middle right now, send them this one. Sometimes the reminder that scattered still counts as progress is exactly what someone needs to hear today.
We're over halfway through the year, which means I'm having two feelings at once: "how did we get here already?!?!" and "okay, let's actually get moving on the goals I set back in January."
If you're feeling that same tug of war, this episode is for you. I'm setting aside the usual format this week...no interview, no list of tactics, no client wins. Just five questions I need you to actually sit with, notebook in hand if you've got one nearby.
Because here's the thing about being a founder, whatever you founded (a business, a farm, a nonprofit, a family): nobody sends you a calendar invite to check in with yourself. So we skip it, quarter after quarter, until it's suddenly the end of July and we haven't stopped to ask if any of this is still working.
What You'll Hear * Why "stop, start, continue" might be the most useful three words in your midyear toolkit * The difference between tracking your time and tracking your energy and why one of those metrics lies to you * How to figure out if your definition of "good work" is even yours * Why founders are notoriously bad at celebrating their own wins (and how to fix that) * The one-degree-off-course story that will change how you think about small drifts in your business
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Share This Episode If this episode gave you even one minute of honest reflection, send it to a fellow founder who needs the same permission slip. And come back next week for more of The Found Podcast.
If you've been sitting on an idea for your small town, a business, a side hustle, a project you keep circling back to, and something keeps stopping you every time you get close to pulling the trigger... this episode is for you.
This week it's just me. I'm walking you through six reasons why right now, in this economy, in your small town, is actually the best time you'll ever have to start building something of your own. Not hype. Data, stories from my own backyard here in Cascade, and almost ten years of running my own business to draw from.
We're talking security, income, community, access, opportunity, and identity. Six reasons, one big permission slip. Grab your coffee (or your feed bucket, no judgment) and let's get into it.
What You'll Hear * Why 5.2 million new business applications were filed in 2024 alone, and what that means for you * The real math behind small town word of mouth, and the Creator Club story that proves it * Why 92% of entrepreneurs say they don't regret starting, even the ones whose businesses didn't go as planned * Local small business shoutouts: Rotunno Auto Detailing, Something Sweet Bakery, and Totes McGoats * The one thing Molly wants you to do before this episode even ends
Resources & Links Mentioned * Ana of Lovely Little Light and Creator Club (referenced episode from early 2025, linked on the website) * Rotunno's Garage Auto Detailing * Something Sweet Bakery * Totes McGoats
Share the Love If this one hit home, send it to the person in your life who's been sitting on an idea. Screenshot it, tag me, or just send it in a text that says 'this is us.' Let's get more small town dreams off the ground.
I'm angry this week. Not flip-a-table angry. The kind of angry that makes you sit up and say: this is wrong, and I want to be part of the solution.
Rural America has been talked about, talked at, and politicized for years...by people who don't actually live here. So this week, I'm doing something different. Seven truths about rural America, backed by real data and real stories from my own small town of Cascade, Iowa. No spin. No agenda. Just the truth about a people and a place that deserve better than they've been getting.
This one isn't political. It's personal. Grab your coffee (or your chore gloves) and let's get into it.
What You'll Hear * Why rural America's $2.7 trillion GDP contribution tells a different story than the one you've heard * The truth about small town business owners as some of the most underestimated entrepreneurs in the country * Why community isn't a soft value...it's an economic strategy * How rural values got mistaken for political ones, and why that's a tragedy * What it really means that rural America feeds the world and funds the country * Why the next generation of rural leaders isn't leaving, they're choosing to stay * The ripple effect of one small town business growing, and what it costs a community when it closes
Resources & Links Mentioned * Join Molly's email list for what's coming this fall: mkm.myflodesk.com/email * Berning Acres Farm Camps (Western Illinois)
Listen and Subscribe * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
If this one landed somewhere in your chest, do me a favor: send it to somebody. Somebody in a small town who's never heard their story told with pride instead of pity, or somebody in a city who thinks they already understand rural America. And leave a review while you're at it. It's the easiest way to help this conversation reach a bigger room.
This one is personal.
Episode 260 is a solo cast, and it's the episode I've been sitting with for a while. I'm sharing what's been happening in real time in my career this year, not as a pivot story or a comeback story, but as a self-leadership story. Because I think a lot of people listening right now are living inside someone else's version of success and just don't have the language for it yet.
This episode is that language.
I'm talking about what happened when I chased bigger clients, bigger cities, bigger budgets...and why something still didn't feel right. I'm talking about the small moments of friction that accumulated until I couldn't ignore them. And I'm sharing the four-step self-leadership framework that helped me stop asking how do I get to the bigger table, and start asking what table was I actually built for.
In This Episode: * The honest truth about what I was chasing when I stepped away from Molly Knuth Media in 2025 * Why "bigger is better" is a societal signal that hits especially hard when you're from a small town of 2,000 people * What it actually felt like to sit in those bigger rooms with bigger clients and still feel something was off * Why coming back to small town small business was not the easy choice, and why I had to own it as a decision and not a fallback * The difference between settling and deciding, and why that distinction changes everything * The 4-step self-leadership framework for naming, noticing, asking, and choosing * What I want every small town business owner to hear before the back half of 2026
The 4-Step Self-Leadership Framework: * Step 1: Name whose definition of success you've been chasing * Step 2: Notice the signals that tell you when you're in alignment and when you're not * Step 3: Ask the real question: what table was I actually built for? * Step 4: Choose it on purpose, with full information and without apology
Find Molly: * Website: mollyknuthmedia.com * Instagram: @mollyknuth * Email: molly@mollyknuthmedia.com
Listen and Subscribe: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
I want to hear from you after this one. What are you choosing for yourself in the back half of 2026? Reach out on Instagram or send me an email to discuss!
I get pitches in my inbox every day. Most of them I can't fit into the schedule, no matter how great they are.
This one stopped me cold.
Sarah Jakle is the founder and executive director of DemocraShe, a nonpartisan nonprofit offering free online training to high school girls in evidence-based resiliency skills, leadership, and civic engagement. They pay their participants $15 an hour. They recruit specifically from historically underrepresented communities. They are 90% girls of color and 70% first-generation Americans. And they have a wait list seven times longer than their current capacity.
Only 28% of Congress is women. Only 11% is women of color. Sarah and her organization are doing something about that, and they're starting in high school, because that's the last time boys and girls believe equally that they can run for office.
This conversation genuinely moved me. Have a notebook ready.
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * Why Sarah started DemocraShe after watching the 2020 election, and what she saw that nobody was addressing * The two specific barriers she identified: women not seeing themselves as candidates and the outsized harassment women face when they do run * Why DemocraShe pays its participants $15 an hour, and what that teaches young women beyond the paycheck * The peer-led model: why the program is built by the girls, for the girls, from the name to the curriculum to the workshops * The nervous system tools built into every session: grounding, the inner best friend, savoring, and the Viktor Frankl quote you will want on your vision board * Why community over competition has to be taught early, while young women's brains are still neuroplastic * Sarah's own story: being told in 2014 she would never work again, and how the same skills she now teaches girls are what got her back up
How to Get Involved: * Apply to the program: democrashe.org * Donate to support paid participation and program access: democrashe.org * Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn
Listen and Subscribe: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
If this episode fired something up in you, share it with a high school girl in your life. Or a parent. Or a teacher. Or anyone who needs to hear that running for office is a birthright, not a privilege reserved for a certain kind of person.
I've known Josie Manternach since she was roughly in first grade, and I still learned things about her in this conversation that I didn't know.
Josie is an educator by trade, a military spouse, a mom, and now a community impact leader at the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque. But the path that got her there? It's the kind of story that is going to hit differently depending on where you are right now, whether you're holding tightly to a plan that's starting to unravel, or you're on the other side of a pivot wondering how all the pieces are going to fit together.
She grew up in Cascade, fell in love with the ag room at Cascade High School, went to Iowa State to become an ag teacher, and had what she thought was her whole life figured out. Then came a retirement, a once-in-a-lifetime job offer, a Navy JAG program acceptance, a cross-country move, a pandemic, a baby, a thesis, and eventually... a path back home that looked different from the one she'd imagined.
Every single step of it makes sense when you hear her tell it.
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * How the ag room at Cascade High School shaped Josie's entire career trajectory (and why belonging matters more than we think) * The once-in-a-lifetime job offer that arrived at the exact same moment as her husband's Navy JAG acceptance * What it felt like to leave the dream job she thought she'd retire from...at age 24 * Life as a military spouse: navigating DC, Florida, a pandemic, a newborn, and starting over more than once * How she learned to build community from scratch in places where she didn't know anyone * Teaching middle school science in Maryland, working in higher ed in Florida, and what each season taught her * Completing a master's thesis through Ohio State while working full time and raising a toddler * Her current work at the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque: dyslexia tutoring, rural teacher retention, third grade literacy, and the grad partnership initiative * The stat that stopped me cold: 47 students now receiving dyslexia tutoring weekly in Dubuque...where two years ago there were zero local options
Resources and Links: * Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque: dbqfoundation.org * Rural Teacher Summit: coming this summer at Camp Little Cloud in Epworth * Contact Josie directly through the Community Foundation website
Listen and Subscribe: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
If Josie's story resonated with you, share it with someone who is in the middle of a plan that just got disrupted. This one is for them.
I told you this was going to be a different kind of conversation, and I meant it.
Serin Silva spent two decades inside high-pressure corporate environments at companies like MSNBC and Hearst, leading integration communications for billion-dollar acquisitions and overseeing a book of business worth $40 million. She was in rooms where she was often the only woman leader, playing a game with rules she didn't write and didn't always like.
And then one morning, crossing the Bay Bridge on her commute, a little voice said: how much longer are you going to do this?
That question changed everything.
Today Serin is an energy healer, psychic medium, ceremonialist, and business strategist who helps women founders get unstuck and move fast. She brings together nervous system regulation, somatic work, intuitive gifts, and Fortune 500 rigor to help her clients find clarity, focus, and in some cases, double their revenue in under a year.
This conversation goes everywhere, and I loved every minute of it. Grab a notebook before you press play.
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * How two decades in Silicon Valley and corporate media shaped Serin's understanding of what women have been asked to suppress at work * The morning on the Bay Bridge that changed her life, and what it looked like to follow a voice she'd been ignoring for years * What nervous system regulation actually has to do with business results * Why heart-centered leadership isn't soft, and how women are already positioned to lead what's coming next * The old corporate model (built for making cars, applied to people), why it's dying, and what's replacing it * How Serin thinks about AI as a tool for freeing up more humanity, not less * What it means to stop shape-shifting and stand at your full height * The kaleidoscope analogy that I'm still thinking about * Serin's answer to The Found Podcast closing question that genuinely moved us both
Connect with Serin: * Website: serinsilva.com * Free 15-minute business reading
Listen and Subscribe: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5YACTbRulN4NooX32NgzgV * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-found-podcast-with-molly-knuth/id1530616432
Have a notebook nearby for this one. Serin asks some questions in this conversation that deserve a real answer, and you'll want to write them down.
We're back with Part 2 of my two-part series on 10 things I know for certain about building a business, not from books or courses, but from almost a decade of living it.
If you missed Part 1, go back and listen to Episode 255 first. We covered lessons one through five, and this episode picks up right where we left off.
Today we're finishing out the list with lessons six through ten, and honestly these might be the ones that hit the hardest.
We're talking money mindset, why you can't do it alone, what a coach actually does for you, giving yourself full permission to change your mind, and the thing I believe most deeply after all of it: this whole founder journey is personal development first.
In This Episode: * Lesson 6: Finances can be simple (and the money mantra that changed everything for me) * The "money flows like water" mindset shift I learned from CPA Sheila Hansen * Gina Knox's money waterfall system and why it finally made my finances click * Lesson 7: You will not realize your goals entirely on your own. Bring others along. * Lesson 8: You will grow faster and go further with a coach, a mentor, or a consultant in your corner * How working with Katrina Klooster changed the trajectory of my 2025-2026 transition * How podcasting consultant Jill Carr helped me make clearer decisions about the future of this show * Lesson 9: You are allowed to change your mind (Surge, Sierra Mist, and why pivoting isn't failing) * Lesson 10: This journey is personal development first and a professional endeavor second
People and Resources Mentioned: * Sheila Hansen, CPA (and past Found Podcast guest) * Gina Knox, founder of Small Business Money School (also a past Found Podcast guest) * Katrina Klooster, life and leadership coach (another Found Podcast guest - Episode 252) * Jill Carr, podcasting consultant (and, you guessed it, a Found Podcast guest!) * Miranda (the Found Podcast editor who makes it all happen every week!)
Find Molly: * Website: mollyknuth.com * Instagram: @mollyknuth * Email: molly@mollyknuthmedia.com
Listen and Subscribe: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
Did something from this episode (or the last one) land for you? I'd genuinely love to hear it. Reach out on Instagram or send me an email and tell me which lesson resonated most. And if you know a founder who needs to hear this... send them both episodes.
It's a solo cast! It has been a while since it was just me and you, and I'm glad to be back in this format because I have some things to say.
This episode was sparked by a moment that happened in March of 2026 at the You Conferences in Cedar Rapids. I was the 3:00 PM speaker and somewhere between the nerves and the sound check and a very unexpected karaoke moment involving Gloria Gaynor, something clicked for me about identity, confidence, and what it actually takes to build something from scratch.
So I came here to share 10 things I know for certain about building a business. Not from books. Not from courses. From living it, for almost a decade, through the pivots and the wins and the moments I wish I could do over.
This is Part 1. We're covering numbers one through five today, and Part 2 (six through ten) drops next week.
In This Episode: * The karaoke moment at You Conferences that reminded me to trust myself again * Lesson 1: You don't need to reinvent the wheel at the beginning (the unsexy foundation every business actually needs) * Lesson 2: Slow down. Then go even slower. But don't stop moving. * Lesson 3: Your story is your edge (and why it creates fans before it ever creates customers) * Lesson 4: Selling isn't yucky. Talk about your offers. All the time. More than you think you should. * Lesson 5: You'll only make as much money as you've built capacity for
Resources Mentioned: * Gina Knox — money management framework for small business owners * Chilled Freezer Meals — local and shipped freezer meal delivery * Katrina Klooster — life and leadership coach * You Conferences Cedar Rapids — annual women's conference
Find Molly: * Website: mollyknuth.com * Instagram: @mollyknuth
Listen and Subscribe: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
Part 2 drops next week. Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss it.
Lindsay Leahy is back on The Found Podcast for the third time, and this one is unlike any conversation we've had before.
You might know Lindsay as the founder of The Restoration Project, the author of Take It All Apart (a USA Today bestseller!), and someone who has spent the last several years helping leaders and organizations do their most meaningful work. But in this episode, Lindsay shares that she's stepping away from what she built, into something she never saw coming.
We talk about the book, what happened after it hit those bestseller lists, and the word that started everything this year: beyond. And then we go deeper into where "beyond" has actually led her, which is a brand new role as the Director of Leadership Formation for the Archdiocese of Dubuque. It's unexpected. It's emotional. It's one of the most honest conversations I've had on this podcast.
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * The two dark weeks before the book launch that Lindsay didn't expect, and what she found on the other side * Client stories from the Take It All Apart process (including Camden, a client stepping into marriage and family while keeping his magic) * Lindsay's word of the year: beyond, and the "lay down your nets" moment that changed everything * Practical, tactical tools for moving beyond stress, distraction, and busyness (yes, the dumping exercise is back) * What it really means to move beyond hustle mode, and why it's ultimately a worthiness issue * How a volunteer role inside the Archdiocese of Dubuque turned into a moment she could not say no to * What it felt like to surrender a thriving business at the height of its success * Why your definition of success doesn't have to look like anyone else's
Resources Mentioned: * Take It All Apart by Lindsay Leahy (USA Today Bestseller) * The Beyond Series on Lindsay's blog: gritgratitudeandgrace.com * Beyond Stress and Distraction * Beyond Busyness and Hustle
Connect with Lindsay: * Substack: Lindsay M. Leahy * Blog: gritgratitudeandgrace.com * Website: lindsayleahy.com (coming soon!) * LinkedIn: Lindsay Leahy
This is Brooke's third time on The Found Podcast. Every time she comes back, she brings something that stops me mid-conversation and makes me reach for my notebook.
Brooke Fitzgerald is the Energy Builder at The Restoration Project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and as of June 1st, she becomes the sole owner of the practice. She's a coach, a speaker, a mom of two boys, a recovering people-pleaser, and one of the most convicted, passionate humans I get to have in my corner.
In this episode, we dig into the work that has defined Brooke's last several years, both personally and professionally. We talk about closing a business, rebuilding an identity, and the deeply human question of: who are you when you're not defined by what you do?
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * How closing her coffee shop became the lowest (and most clarifying) point of Brooke's life * What it actually takes to untether your identity from your work (hint: it takes longer than you think, and that's okay) * The Path to Enough framework and why enough is a decision, not an amount * The question that makes rooms full of women go completely silent: "Who are you when no one needs anything from you?" * Why good enough really is good enough, and what we lose when we demand 110% of ourselves constantly * Imposter syndrome reframed: it's not a flaw, it's your courage catching up to your capability * The SEA tool for moving from imposter to intentional, and a story about a female CEO that will stop you cold * What's next for Brooke and The Restoration Project, including fall retreats, empowerment communities, and a November workshop
Connect with Brooke: * Website: the-restorationproject.com * LinkedIn: Brooke Fitzgerald
Upcoming Events with Brooke: * MWLN Summit — Muscatine, Iowa (June) * Fall Women's Retreats — details coming soon * Power of No Empowerment Communities — small groups of 6-8 women * November Brunch & Learn Workshop — The Path to Enough for Courageous Leaders
Listen & Subscribe: * Spotify * Apple Podcasts
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a woman who needs to hear it. And if you're not yet subscribed to The Found Podcast, now's a great time! New episodes drop every Wednesday.
Have you ever stood in the middle of a life that looks really good on paper and still felt like something was off? Like a quiet voice whispering, this isn't it anymore...and you didn't know what to do with that?
This week on the Found Podcast, I'm bringing you a conversation with my own coach, Katrina Klooster, and I think this one is going to land somewhere deep for a lot of you.
Katrina is a life and leadership coach who specializes in helping high-achieving women navigate transitions, those in-between seasons when you've outgrown where you are but aren't sure where you're going. After nearly 15 years in education (as a high school Spanish teacher and instructional coach), Katrina followed her own winding, messy, non-linear path into building a coaching practice, and she brings all of that lived experience to the women she now serves.
In this episode, we talk about: * The moment Katrina knew she had outgrown teaching and why it took her so long to trust that feeling * Burnout, shingles, and the culture of self-sacrifice we've normalized in education (and beyond) * Why your non-linear path is not something to apologize for * The 37-38-year-old awakening many women experience and what's actually happening beneath the surface * How high-achieving women get stuck in golden handcuffs and what it takes to break free * Why most women aren't afraid of failure...and what they're actually afraid of instead * The grief that's woven into growth (and why we don't talk about it enough) * What Katrina looks for in a coach and how to know if coaching is right for you
Connect with Katrina: * Website: katrinaklooster.com * Instagram: @katrinaklooster (send her a DM!)
Listen & Subscribe: * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5YACTbRulN4NooX32NgzgV * Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-found-podcast-with-molly-knuth/id1530616432
If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a woman in your life who might need to hear it today. And if you're not yet subscribed to The Found Podcast, now is a great time to hit that button so you never miss an episode.
In this episode of The Found Podcast, Molly sits down with Sarah Hermanson, founder of One Above HR, pumpkin farmer, and people-first leadership expert.
With over 30 years of experience in human resources and recruiting, Sarah has seen firsthand what makes businesses thrive and what causes them to struggle. And here's the truth she keeps coming back to: it's not just the product, the service, or the strategy…it's the people.
Together, Molly and Sarah explore what it really looks like to build a business rooted in care, communication, and culture, and why those "soft skills" are actually the most powerful drivers of performance, retention, and long-term success.
From practical ways to build connection in your workplace, to the surprising impact of nonverbal communication, to the often-avoided (but incredibly important) topic of succession planning, this conversation is full of grounded wisdom you can apply right away.
And in true Found Podcast fashion, you'll also hear how Sarah's story weaves together entrepreneurship, family legacy, and a 46-year-old pumpkin farm in rural Iowa.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why "joy at work" isn't fluffy, it's foundational to business success * How to build connection with your team in just 5–8 minutes a day * The concept of "advanced communication" (and why words aren't enough) * Simple body language shifts that can transform how you're perceived * Why founders need to think about succession planning sooner than they think * How Sarah transitioned from corporate HR to entrepreneurship * Lessons from taking over a multi-generational family pumpkin farm * What it really means to lead with care, culture, and communication
Key Quotes * "We don't achieve any of our goals if we aren't approaching them with care." * "I can teach you how to do something. I can't teach you how to care." * "90,000 hours of our lives are spent at work. Those should be joy-filled hours."
Resources & Links * Connect with Sarah: sarah@oneabovehr.com * Website: One Above HR * Sherman's Pumpkin Farm (Manchester, Iowa) * Follow Sarah on LinkedIn
This one feels really special.
Back in 2020, The Found Podcast started with a simple idea: to share what I was learning about building a business, becoming a person, and navigating all the in-between moments.
And now…here we are. 250 episodes later.
Instead of making this episode about me, I wanted to bring it back to the people and the moments that made this podcast what it is today: you and the incredible guests who have shared their stories along the way.
In this milestone episode, I'm taking you through snippets from some of the most popular episodes in the history of the podcast.
These are the conversations that stuck. The ones you shared. The ones that made you think, feel, and take action.
You'll hear themes like:
- grief and resilience
- infertility and healing
- marketing and business growth
- creativity and music
- small town stories
- and the magic of becoming who you're meant to be
Whether you've been here since the Small-Minded Podcast days or you're newer to this space… this episode is a reminder of everything we've built together.
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * Snippets from some of our most downloaded episodes * Conversations spanning 2022–2025 * A wide range of topics that define The Found Podcast * The throughline of founding businesses, communities, and ourselves
A Note from Molly: This podcast has never been about having it all figured out.
It's been about showing up, sharing the journey, and inviting you to do the same.
Thank you for being here. For listening, for reaching out, and for taking action on what resonates.
There's a leadership gap in our communities...and it's not what you think.
It's not about titles. It's not about experience. And it's definitely not about a lack of talent.
In this episode of The Found Podcast, I sit down with Melissa Reade, Executive Director of Leader Valley, to talk about the real gap we're seeing in schools, businesses, and communities—and how we can start to fix it.
From working with over 12,000 students to equipping current leaders in the workforce, Leader Valley is rethinking how leadership is developed at every stage of life.
This conversation is about more than leadership theory. It's about practical, everyday ways we build stronger people, stronger teams, and stronger communities.
If you've ever felt like something is missing in how we prepare people to lead…this episode will put language to it.
What You'll Hear in This Episode: * What the "leadership gap" actually is (and why it's growing) * Why technical skills aren't enough anymore * How Leader Valley is building leaders from elementary school through adulthood * The role of emotional intelligence and communication in leadership * What schools are missing and how it impacts the workforce * Why community collaboration is the key to long-term change * The importance of leading yourself before leading others * Melissa's personal story of resilience and leadership through adversity
Resources & Links: * Leader Valley → https://www.leadervalley.org * Leader in Me → https://www.leaderinme.org * Connect with Melissa Reade → melissa@leadervalley.org
What actually makes a small town thrive?
Hint: it's not population size, location, or luck.
It's leadership.
In this episode of The Found Podcast, Molly sits down with Liesel Seabert of the University of Northern Iowa Institute for Decision Making to talk about the real, often overlooked work behind strong communities and why leadership development might be the most important investment we're not talking about enough.
From moving to Iowa without knowing a single person to becoming one of the most connected leaders in the state, Liesel shares how showing up, building relationships, and embracing discomfort shaped her path and how those same principles can transform any community.
If you've ever wondered how to make a bigger impact where you live, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about what's possible.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why leadership—not location—is the true driver of thriving communities * How to build connection when you're new (and know no one) * The "domino effect" that helps small towns gain momentum * Why starting small is the key to long-term success * The real reason volunteer burnout happens and how to prevent it * How to plug into Iowa's hidden network of resources and support * Why the next generation of leaders might be the most important investment we make
Resources & Links * University of Northern Iowa Institute for Decision Making * Iowa Rural Development Council * Empower Rural Iowa * Iowa Leadership Exchange
What if wellness wasn't another thing to optimize… but something you actually got to experience?
In this episode, Molly sits down with Dominique Farrar, founder of Well in France — a Paris-based community and experience brand helping women slow down, connect, and redefine what it means to live well.
Dom shares her journey from fast-paced tech life in Silicon Valley to building a wellness business in France — and how her version of success shifted along the way.
Together, they explore the tension so many women feel: trying to "do wellness right" while already carrying too much — and how real wellbeing might look a lot simpler (and more human) than we've been told.
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
- Why wellness has become another source of pressure for women
- The biggest differences between American and French approaches to wellbeing
- How Dom transitioned from tech startups to building a wellness business abroad
- The surprising way her community actually started growing
- Why connection (not content) became her most powerful business strategy
- How to build something meaningful without following the "playbook"
Resources & Links:
- Learn more about Well in France
- Explore retreats, events, and community experiences in Paris & Provence
- Follow Dominique on Instagram for more on wellness, community, and living well
What if the biggest shift in your leadership didn't come from doing more… but from understanding yourself better?
In this solo episode, Molly shares a behind-the-scenes look at a pivotal leadership moment inside her work with The Restoration Project. One that revealed how overperformance, urgency, and independence can quietly create disconnection on a team.
Through a personal story about building the Difficult Conversations course, Molly unpacks the leadership patterns she didn't realize she was carrying and how reconnecting with herself changed everything.
This episode walks you through the Restoration Process:
- Rebuild Connection
- Restore Intention
- Inspire Action
If you've ever felt like you're doing everything right but something still feels off, this conversation will meet you right where you are.
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
- The leadership mistake that started with good intentions (and created disconnect)
- How overperforming can actually erode trust on a team
- The difference between reacting and responding as a leader
- A simple daily practice to reconnect with your energy and patterns
- How to move from urgency → connection → intention → aligned action
- Why leadership always starts within
Resources & Links:
- Connection Reset Tool: https://the-restorationproject.myflodesk.com/connectionreset
- Difficult Conversations Course (Use code MOLLY50 for 50% off): https://www.the-restorationproject.com/courses/difficult-conversations/
- Learn more at The Restoration Project: https://www.the-restorationproject.com/
This week on The Found Podcast, Molly reconnects with returning guest Erin McGuire-Henson, a nervous system healer, coach for soul-aligned entrepreneurs, and newly published author of The Art of Unraveling.
In this deeply honest conversation, Erin shares the long and winding journey behind writing her book, a 15-year process shaped by personal healing, nervous system work, and the courage to finally be seen. Together, Molly and Erin explore how trauma responses like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and fear of visibility can quietly shape our lives and businesses.
Erin opens up about growing up in a volatile environment, navigating chronic illness and burnout, and discovering somatic healing practices that helped her reconnect with her true self. She also shares the emotional reality of launching creative work into the world, including the unexpected grief, vulnerability, and nervous system recalibration that can follow major milestones.
This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is rarely linear, and that unraveling who we've learned to be is often the first step toward becoming who we truly are.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Erin's 15-year journey to writing The Art of Unraveling * How nervous system healing supports entrepreneurs and ambitious women * The hidden trauma responses behind perfectionism and over-functioning * Fear of being seen and why it keeps so many leaders playing small * Why big achievements can still bring emotional crashes afterward * The difference between surface-level self-help and embodied healing * How personal storytelling can become a powerful tool for transformation * What entrepreneurship reveals about our deepest patterns and growth edges
Resources & Links * Erin McGuire-Henson website: PureLightWellness.com * The Art of Unraveling book * Companion workbook + healing resources * Upcoming group programs
This week on The Found Podcast, I'm joined by brand photographer, mother of four, and longtime friend Erin Moore for a deeply honest conversation about courage, community, and what it really takes to rebuild your life and business again and again.
👉 Real talk: The audio quality in this conversation isn't perfect. But Erin's courage, perspective, and heart made this episode one we couldn't keep on the shelf. I hope you'll stay with us through the tech hiccups — her story matters.
Erin shares her experience of moving across states multiple times, relaunching her photography business in new places, and learning how to create connection and consistency even when everything around her feels unfamiliar. We talk about the power of women's communities, the leadership it takes to "go first," and how small intentional actions can create momentum during seasons of uncertainty.
Erin also opens up about her journey from Canada to becoming a U.S. citizen in 2024 — offering a personal, first-hand perspective on the complexity, cost, privilege, and emotional weight of the immigration process. Her reflections invite us to consider empathy, access, and what it means to build a future for your family in a new place.
This episode is a reminder that growth rarely happens in perfectly timed moments. Instead, it comes from choosing courage in small ways, showing up consistently, and trusting that even the scary steps can lead you exactly where you're meant to go.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * How Erin rebuilt her photography business after multiple cross-country moves * The role women's mastermind communities play in entrepreneurial growth * Why leadership sometimes looks like quietly going first * The mindset shift of "living as if for years" even in temporary seasons * How intentional friendship and consistency build grounding in new places * Erin's personal journey through the U.S. citizenship process * Reflections on privilege, access, and empathy in immigration conversations * Why waiting for the "perfect time" often keeps women stuck * The courage it takes to evolve from a timid past into a visible leader
Resources & Links * Erin Moore Photography Website * Erin Moore Photography on Instagram
This week on The Found Podcast, I'm joined by Danielle Letayf — founder of Badassery, personal brand strategist, podcast guesting expert, and the perfect woman to help us kick off our Women's History Month interview series.
Danielle helps thoughtful executives, authors, and experts turn their stories into something unforgettable. But in this conversation, we go far deeper than personal branding and podcast pitches.
We talk about what it really looks like to build a business as a woman, how comparison can keep us stuck, why your path does not have to look like anyone else's, and how some of the greatest wisdom we gain comes from the pivots, mistakes, and messy middle moments we'd rather skip.
Danielle shares how her entrepreneurial mindset was shaped by her immigrant family, how her first business evolved through multiple versions, and why slowing down became one of the most important lessons in her growth as a founder. We also dig into what makes someone a strong podcast guest, how to start refining your story, and why community matters so much when you're building something brave.
This episode is full of practical insight, honest reflection, and the kind of encouragement ambitious women need when they're building something meaningful in a way that actually fits their life.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * How Danielle's immigrant family shaped her entrepreneurial mindset * The "why not me?" question that helped her start building * Why women don't have to take giant, dramatic risks to make bold moves * How comparison can distract founders from their own unique path * What Danielle learned from pivoting her business after hard seasons * Why going slower can actually create more stability and success * What makes someone a compelling podcast guest * How to begin refining your story and personal brand * Why layering your interests and lived experience makes your story stronger * Danielle's thoughts on community, support, and resilience as a founder
Resources & Links * Danielle Letayf on LinkedIn * Badassery HQ * Dreamers & Doers
It's officially Women's History Month, and this year, instead of starting with statistics, I'm starting with a question:
In 2026, are we elevating hot takes…or high character?
When I was in seventh grade, I wrote a research paper on Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. I was fascinated by the way she carried herself through public scrutiny, personal grief, and cultural change.
Today, we live in a very different media landscape.
Algorithms reward outrage. Virality rewards speed. Money rewards attention.
Integrity? Not so much.
In this episode, I explore:
- What changed between the era of shared cultural narratives and today's fragmented feeds
- Why we may be living in a "trust recession"
- How money, clicks, and status shape modern leadership
- The danger of urgency-driven decision making
- Why reluctant, values-aligned leaders may be the ones we need most
- And how moral leadership starts inside each of us
As we kick off Women's History Month 2026, this conversation sets the foundation for the stories ahead: women who embody high character in big and small ways.
This isn't about nostalgia...I mean kind of. I love waxing nostalgic.
But this conversation is about personal leadership and responsibility.
It starts with us.
🔗 Links Referenced in This Episode * Malcolm Gladwell – Revisionist History Podcast "When Will Met Grace:" https://www.pushkin.fm/podcasts/revisionist-history/when-will-met-grace * Wellness Wheel (Life Balance Assessment Tool) https://www.the-restorationproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Wellness-Wheel.pdf * Values Exercise https://www.the-restorationproject.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Refining-Your-Values-1.pdf * The Restoration Project – Weekly Leadership Momentum Emails https://the-restorationproject.myflodesk.com/newsletter
What if education wasn't a one-time phase of life, but an evolving journey designed to meet people exactly where they are?
In this episode of The Found Podcast, Molly sits down with Amy Lasack, Vice President of Business and Community Solutions at Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC), to explore how workforce development, education, and community collaboration intersect to create real opportunity.
Amy shares how nearly 25 years in Iowa's community college system shaped her belief that workforce is an ecosystem, not a straight line. Together, Molly and Amy discuss how education must adapt to modern learners, how local communities can unlock hidden career pathways, and why saying "yes" to things that scare you just a little might be the key to growth.
From hands-on learning and AI innovation to deeply personal lessons about family, leadership, and purpose, this conversation highlights how meaningful change happens when institutions listen closely to the people they serve.
Whether you're a business owner, parent, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode offers a hopeful look at what's possible when education meets community.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why workforce development works best as an ecosystem * How community colleges are redefining education pathways * The shift from linear careers to flexible learning journeys * How NICC partners with businesses and communities to solve real problems * Making education engaging through hands-on learning, technology, and AI * The power of exposure in helping students discover career paths * Overcoming imposter syndrome and saying yes to growth opportunities * Leadership lessons shaped by personal loss and family priorities
Resources & Links * Register for Trainer Talent Expo: https://nicc.augusoft.net/index.cfm?method=ClassInfo.ClassInformation∫_class_id=104976 * Northeast Iowa Community College: https://www.nicc.edu * Connect with Amy Lasack on LinkedIn * Email Amy: lasacka@nicc.edu * Follow NICC:
+ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neiowacc
+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/northeast-iowa-community-college
If you've been here for years or you're only a handful of episodes in... this one is for you.
After recently stepping back into the guest seat on another podcast, I realized it had been a while since I reintroduced herself here on The Found Podcast. So today, I'm doing just that.
But not with a résumé.
Not with a tidy bio.
With the real story.
In this episode, I walk through the winding, nonlinear path from waitress to teacher, stay-at-home mom to accidental entrepreneur, agency owner to Managing Director of The Restoration Project. I share the inflection points, the burnout, the public pivots, and the deeply personal realizations that reshaped my definition of success.
More than anything, this episode is an invitation:
You are more than your job title. Your path doesn't have to make sense to anyone else. And sometimes your passion lives from 5–9, not 9–5... and that's beautiful.
Whether you're founding a business, founding a cause, founding a family, or simply finding yourself, this episode is a reminder that there is no blueprint: only growth, reflection, and courage to evolve.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why I believe we should introduce ourselves by who we are, not just what we do * The personality assessments that shaped my self-understanding (Enneagram 3, Learner strength, Human Design Manifester) * Lessons from early jobs — including manufacturing floors and Applebee's shifts * The rise (and unraveling) of Molly Knuth Media * The breaking point that forced me to ask: What do I really want? * Why leadership development — not marketing — became my deeper calling * How my role at The Restoration Project evolved into Managing Director * The truth about nonlinear paths and public pivots * Why you don't need to monetize your passion for it to matter
Resources & Links * The Restoration Project – Leadership development resources, courses, and weekly momentum emails * Founder's Field Notes – Molly's monthly email for female founders * Connect with Molly on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook @mollyknuth
Some people build businesses.
Some people follow a calling.
And sometimes… those two things become the very same path.
This week on The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth, I sit down with fellow Iowan and "Molly Squared" guest Molly Schreiber, founder of Challenge to Change and the nonprofit Mindful Minutes.
What started as a young teacher's love of education became something much deeper after unimaginable loss. After losing her first husband in a car accident at age 30 while raising three children under three, Molly found herself returning to one unexpected anchor: yoga.
That quiet hour at the YMCA became the lifeline that helped her regulate her grief, reconnect to herself, and ultimately reimagine what education could look like for kids, teachers, and even workplaces.
Today, her programs serve hundreds of schools across Iowa — teaching breath work, resilience, emotional regulation, and mindfulness practices that ripple far beyond the classroom.
This conversation is about:
- turning wounds into wisdom
- creating space for "The Pause"
- helping kids build tools we never learned ourselves
- and trusting your inner compass when life changes course
If you've ever wondered how personal pain can become purposeful work… this one's for you.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Molly's journey from classroom teacher to mindfulness founder * The loss that reshaped her life and leadership * How yoga helped her navigate grief as a young widow and mom * Why kids today need emotional regulation tools more than ever * The "5 Parts of Practice" framework used in schools * The surprising number of thoughts (and emotions!) we process daily * Bringing mindfulness into workplaces and healthcare settings * What it means to live aligned with your "noble goal" * Why "The Pause" might be the most important practice of all
Resources & Links * Challenge to Change: https://challengetochangeinc.com * Mindful Minutes: https://mindfulmins.org * Email Molly: molly@challengetochangeinc.com * Follow Molly Knuth + The Found Podcast
This one is a little raw. A little unpolished. And very real.
After batch-recording months of episodes and stepping into a new season of leadership, I sat down at the mic for the first time this year and realized something:
The most helpful thing I could share right now isn't a strategy or framework.
It's the truth.
Because even 10 years into business…
even 200+ podcast episodes later…
even as Managing Director of The Restoration Project…
I'm still relearning lessons I swore I already knew.
In this solo episode, I'm walking you through five things I'm honestly a little embarrassed I forgot in 2025 — from avoiding my finances (again) to chasing perfection, rushing relationships, overpacking my calendar, and holding back my voice.
But here's the thing: Embarrassment usually means growth is happening.
So if you've ever thought, "Shouldn't I be better at this by now?" — this episode is for you.
You're not behind. You're becoming.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why your business finances are a gift (not something to avoid) * The perfectionism + imposter syndrome spiral in new leadership roles * How speed and efficiency quietly erode meaningful relationships * The "Big Three" method that's helping me reclaim my time * Why sugarcoating your voice actually creates more harm than clarity * And the truth: you're allowed to relearn lessons at every age and stage
Resources & Links * The Restoration Project * Local & virtual events + Empowerment Communities: the-restorationproject.com/events-experiences * Connect with Molly: @mollyknuth on Instagram & LinkedIn
In this final episode of The Found Podcast's Ages & Stages Series, I sit down with Nancy Lynk — Senior Vice President of Commercial Banking at US Bank, community leader, mentor, and lifelong learner — for a conversation that spans generations of leadership, resilience, and self-discovery.
From growing up on a Century Farm in rural Iowa to navigating the 1980s farm crisis as a young ag lender to leading complex commercial banking portfolios to now guiding others through career and life transitions, Nancy's story is a masterclass in listening deeply, honoring your values, and becoming fearless with your own growth.
Together, Nancy and I explore: • Building confidence before the world gives you permission • Lessons from the 1980s farm crisis and the power of human potential • Career pivots that shape long-term leadership • Why reflection, journaling, and contemplative practice matter • Letting go of chronic busyness to invest in yourself • Becoming the mentor you once needed • And the truth Nancy discovered: she was the only thing holding herself back
This episode is an invitation to pause, listen inward, and ask: Where am I ready to stop standing in my own way?
Listen now to the full episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth and guest Nancy Lynk.
Connect with Us
- Get in touch with Nancy on LinkedIn
- Follow Molly on Instagram
Liz Garcia is the kind of woman who makes you want to sit up straighter, open a new notes app, and finally do the thing you've been talking yourself out of.
In this second guest interview of the Ages & Stages series, I sit down with Liz — owner of Storage Theory, founder of GW Spice Co., mom of two, serial entrepreneur, and host of The Liz Garcia Show — to talk about what it really looks like to pivot from corporate life into entrepreneurship… and keep going even when it's scary.
Liz shares the "before and after" moment that propelled her family into business ownership, how perfectionism held her back (until it didn't), and why she believes you should go to worst-case scenario… and ask yourself if you'd survive it (spoiler: you would).
This episode is for the woman who's been feeling the nudge to make a change — but needs a little courage, a little honesty, and a reminder that you are capable of more than you believe.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Liz's journey from graphic design → insurance → sales → entrepreneurship * The pivotal life moment that lit a fire under her and her husband to "just start" * Why perfectionism keeps so many women stuck and how to loosen its grip * A behind-the-scenes look at building an e-commerce brand * How Liz thinks about fear: go to worst case scenario and see if you'd survive it * The question that guides her major decisions: "Will I regret not trying?" * The power of putting yourself in rooms you don't feel ready for * Why Liz believes we should create what we wish existed, especially in the Midwest * The constant she's learned through every age and stage: "I'm capable of more than I believe."
Resources & Links * Liz on Instagram: @lizgarcia.me * Storage Theory: @storagetheory * Storage Theory website: storagetheory.com * Liz's podcast: The Liz Garcia Show * 1 Million Cups (mentioned in episode): local weekly entrepreneur meetups (check your city's chapter)
In the very first guest interview of the Ages & Stages series, Molly sits down in person with Carley Kintzle a senior at Iowa State University studying agricultural communications and public relations, a cattle exhibitor, the founder of Wild Orchid Co., and a photographer who picked up a camera… and ran with it.
Carley's story is a reminder that you don't have to pick just one lane. From starting a jewelry business in high school (despite never having made leather earrings before) to landing a dream role with Corteva while still in college, Carley shares what it looks like to say yes to opportunity, lean into mentorship, and use networking as a tool, even when it feels uncomfortable.
This conversation is full of energy, practicality, and a message every woman needs: challenges aren't a stop sign, they're often the thing that fuels our growth.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why Carley started Wild Orchid Co. during COVID (and what her mom said first!) * The power of being multi-passionate and embracing it instead of fighting it * How Carley's mentors stretched her (even when she wasn't sure she was ready) * Why networking matters more than you think and how to do it without being "weird" * What the cattle showing circuit taught her about leadership, work ethic, and confidence * How she landed her dream role while still in school * What success means to Carley in this stage of life * The mindset that keeps her moving forward * The one line she wants every listener to remember: "Just go for it."
Resources & Links * Follow Carley: @carley.kintzle * Wild Orchid Co.: @wild_orchid_co * Website: wild-orchid-co.com * Follow Molly: @mollyknuth * Email Molly: molly@mollyknuthmedia.com
As we step into a brand new year, this episode opens the Ages & Stages series with a personal reflection from me, Molly.
In this solo episode, I looks back across my own life — from childhood curiosity and creativity, to achievement-driven adolescence, to motherhood, entrepreneurship, burnout, and a more grounded, intentional season of leadership.
Rather than rushing toward what's next, this episode invites listeners to slow down, reflect on what each age and stage has already taught them, and consider how those lessons shape who you are becoming.
This conversation sets the tone for the weeks ahead, where I will sit down with women at different ages and stages of life to explore leadership, identity, ambition, legacy, and meaning.
If you're entering 2026 feeling reflective, hopeful, or ready to lead from a steadier place — this episode is for you.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why this season of life feels less about proving and more about impact * How childhood curiosity and creativity shape adult leadership * The hidden lessons in ambition, achievement, and burnout * What motherhood taught me about presence, rhythm, and partnership * Why there are no true "dividing lines" between life stages * How skills from earlier seasons still serve us today * The intention behind the new Ages & Stages podcast series * My word of the year — and how it's already shifting my mindset * An invitation to reflect on your own age, stage, and season
Resources & Links * The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth * Connect with Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth * Email Molly: molly@mollyknuthmedia.com
This episode is a little different — and honestly, it might be one of the most important ones I've ever shared.
Instead of one long-form interview, you're getting four mini-interviews with women who are quietly (and powerfully) making their communities better — through nonprofit work, community organizing, and the kind of "someone has to do something… so I will" leadership that changes everything.
These women were listener-nominated, and every story proves the same thing: You don't need a massive following or a fancy title to make a difference. You just need the willingness to notice a need… and participate in the solution.
In this compilation, you'll meet:
- Callie FitzGerald — founder of Centrally Rooted Mission + Mindful Musicians (building confidence and brain-health skills through music)
- Molly Schreiber — founder of Mindful Minutes (bringing yoga + mindfulness practices into schools, healthcare, shelters, and more)
- Dee McKenna — community leader and organizer of the Woodbury County Fair Bonus Sale (investing in youth through 4-H & FFA premium support)
- Nicole O'Dell — board member for the Bernard Playground Project (building an accessible community space and rallying a small town to do the "impossible")
And at the end, I'll give you a 14-day challenge to help you turn inspiration into action.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Why community impact rarely starts with a "grand plan" — it starts with noticing * How Centrally Rooted + Mindful Musicians teach resilience and confidence through music * The "five parts of practice" behind Mindful Minutes and how mindfulness becomes a life skill * How the Woodbury County Bonus Sale works — and why it matters for the future of agriculture and youth development * The story behind the Bernard Playground Project and the power of phased momentum * Practical ways to support these missions (donate, volunteer, subscribe, spread the word) * Molly's 14-day challenge: support, thank a helper, or nominate a community leader
Resources & Links * Centrally Rooted * Mindful Musicians * Mindful Minutes * Woodbury County Fair + Bonus Sale Info * Bernard Playground Project * Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque * Nominate a future community helper: molly@mollyknuthmedia.com * Instagram: @mollyknuth
Whitney Sanger isn't just a nonprofit founder — she's a mother of seven, a Dubuque native, a communications and storytelling pro, and the kind of woman who sees a gap and refuses to accept "that's just how it is" as an answer.
In this conversation, Whitney shares the very personal journey that shaped her relationship with food, and how that journey eventually turned into Project Rooted — a nonprofit built on the belief that nutrition isn't only about what's on the plate… it's also about connection, dignity, community, and hope.
We talk about the moment that sparked her curiosity (a simple school birthday lunch), the pushback she faced when she started asking bigger questions, and what it looked like to launch a nonprofit in early 2020 — and then pivot fast as the pandemic hit. You'll also hear how Project Rooted has evolved over the last five years, including their incredible Rooted Box program that's helping first graders build a relationship with fresh, local food in a way that's joyful, empowering, and deeply human.
If you've ever felt a nudge to do something meaningful in your community — but you weren't sure where to start — Whitney's story will light something up in you.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Whitney's early relationship with food — and how healing changed everything * Why curiosity is often the beginning of meaningful work * The birthday lunch that sparked the idea for Project Rooted * How she found the right co-founder and built an aligned board * What it looked like to launch in 2020… and pivot into immediate community impact * The "Notes of Hope" that continue to anchor every program * How the Rooted Box program works (and why kids LOVE "Rooted Box Day") * Whitney's advice for anyone with a big idea that feels scary to say out loud * What Whitney has found about herself: confidence + empathy
Resources & Links * Project Rooted * Volunteer opportunities in Dubuque: volunteerdbq.com
This week's episode of The Found Podcast isn't about a flashy brand or a viral business story. It's about a woman you'll probably never see on a billboard, but whose work is changing lives quietly, consistently, and deeply in rural Eastern Iowa.
In this episode, Molly sits down with Sarah Palmer, an English Language Learning (ELL) teacher in the Western Dubuque Community School District. For the past 18 years, Sarah has been teaching language, yes—but also welcoming refugee and immigrant families, connecting them to food, furniture, transportation, and community support, and modeling what everyday service can look like in a small town.
You'll hear about students arriving with only what they could carry, the growing diversity in rural Iowa schools, and how public educators often become the "first point of contact" for families navigating a brand-new system and culture.
This conversation is an invitation: to see the hidden work being done around you, to recognize the power of simple acts of service, and to ask how you might bring your own gifts to the needs in your community.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * How Sarah "fell into" English language teaching and discovered it was absolutely her calling * The shift from a handful of ELL students to 40+ on a roster—and a rural school district filled with global diversity * What it means to be the first trusted connection for families arriving with almost nothing * The unseen ways public schools support families: food, clothing, furniture, rides, and more * Stories of partnering with local organizations like Resources Unite, food pantries, and community foundations * The cascade effect of one gift—a car, a bike, a bed—and how it can change an entire family's trajectory * How growing up in a family of service shaped Sarah's worldview and the way she's raising her boys * Why acting as "the connector" matters just as much as being the direct giver * Practical ideas for how you can serve in your own community (even without a big budget or a lot of time)
Resources & Links * Resources Unite (Dubuque-area support + connections) * Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque * Connect with Molly: @mollyknuth
As we enter December and close out the final month of 2025, this episode brings our year-long exploration of restored, intentional female leadership full circle. We've spent the past twelve months talking about presence, friendship, boundaries, nervous system health, community spaces, and the internal work that helps women lead sustainably.
This month, we're turning our attention outward—to the communities we belong to.
In this episode, Molly shares a deeply personal story of her own evolution as a community volunteer: from an enthusiastic, overcommitted "young mom with a mission" to a thoughtful, seasonally-aware leader who has learned how to give back without losing herself (most of the time, anyway). I talk about the boards I have served on, the projects I've helped lead, the burnout that followed, and the moment I finally gave herself permission to step back.
You'll also hear how to bring your gifts, energy, and leadership into your community in ways that honor your capacity, why service doesn't have to be huge or flashy to be meaningful, and how even small acts of care ripple out more than you think.
What You'll Hear in This Episode * Molly's personal stories of serving on local boards, capital campaigns, and community revitalization projects * What I learned from burnout, resentment, and stepping away * Malcolm Gladwell's 3 criteria for "meaningful work" and how they apply to volunteering * The shift from "lifelong service clubs" to "short-term, high-impact" volunteer models * Ideas for serving your community in ways that fit your season of life * Real examples of women who made big change through small acts (cookie fundraisers, concert series, park lighting, youth leadership) * Why your leadership belongs—even if your gifts look different than someone else's * Practical questions to help you discern where and how you are called to serve right now
Key Quotes * "You don't have to change the world for your service to be meaningful and valuable." * "Some seasons are for rolling up your sleeves. Some seasons are for amplifying others. Both are service." * "When women bring ideas into community spaces, change happens faster and it sticks."
Resources & Links * Malcolm Gladwell, Outliers (for the three keys to meaningful work) * Previous Found Podcast episodes on community, leadership, and intentional living * Connect with Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth * Share this episode with someone doing good work in your community
This week on The Found Podcast, we're trading strategy for stories and KPIs for giggle fits.
To celebrate Thanksgiving and our November theme of family for the ambitious woman, I invited two of the biggest influences in my life and leadership to join me on the mic: my sister, Jessica Ryan, and my mom, Kathy McAllister.
This episode is…unhinged in the best way. We swap stories about handmade Halloween costumes, soda cans secretly stashed in dresser drawers, hiding Dad's favorite candy, President's Day "mystery trips," and the legendary Mother's Day "Guilty Pleasure" road trip. We talk about the chaos of motherhood, what's different from the generations before us, and how much we all rely on humor to make the hard parts lighter.
If you need something cozy and familiar in your ears while you bake pies, drive to Grandma's, or hide in the pantry from your kids for five minutes of peace—this one's for you.
Underneath all the laughter, there's a quiet throughline: ambitious women need people who know where they came from, cheer them on, and don't mind making fun of them (lovingly) along the way.
Key Quotes * "The influences in my life, I feel like you guys have always taught us that things are just better when they're fun." * "Not everything has to be so serious. And even when it is serious, it's okay to bring a little levity to the situation." * "That's what we need as ambitious women—we need our cheerleaders, our support system, the people who remember where we came from and aren't afraid to make fun of us along the way."
Resources & Links * Connect with Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth * Listen to more episodes of The Found Podcast: https://mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast/ * Share this episode with a friend who needs a laugh this week!
Today's episode feels extra special — because I finally got to sit down in person with someone I've admired online for months: Mandy Webber of the Wildly Intentional Podcast.
She drove from West Branch, Iowa, to my home office in Cascade, and what started as a podcast interview turned into a three-hour, soul-filling conversation about motherhood, homesteading, family culture, learning (and unlearning), running a business from your values, and choosing a life that's deeply rooted in intention.
We recorded a double-pod, so you'll hear the Found-side of our interview today, and you can catch the second half over on Mandy's podcast, Wildly Intentional.
If you don't know Mandy yet, you're in for a treat. She's a maverick mom of three, a homesteader, a maker, a family culture builder, and one of the most curious, energetic, truth-telling women I've met. Mandy helps people unlearn the noise of modern life and return to rhythms that actually matter — whether that's rethinking school at home, preserving 50 pounds of tomatoes, or bravely starting something from scratch.
This conversation is honest, warm, hilarious, grounding, and full of gems you'll carry with you.
Settle in. This one's good.
Resources & Links * Take Mandy's Quiz: https://www.wildlyintentional.com/quiz * Wild + Rooted Seasonal Journal & Planner: https://www.wildlyintentional.com/shop/p/wild-rooted-winter * My episode on Mandy's podcast, Wildly Intentional: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6J19AhLH0FCMSE1RU7ArNb?si=y64gMjh_ScqmqqI-ocNOrQ
This week on The Found Podcast, we're continuing our November series on family — and we're going right into the tender middle: motherhood.
Because motherhood changes everything.
Your time. Your nervous system. Your calendar. Your priorities. Your sense of self.
And if you're an ambitious woman on top of that? It changes the way you define success, too.
In this solo episode, I talk honestly about what it looks like to be a mom who loves her kids deeply and a woman who has dreams, goals, clients, and callings. We'll name the myths, talk about the invisible labor, and tell the truth about "balance" (spoiler: it's more recalibration than perfection).
You'll hear:
- why you don't have to choose between being a "good mom" and a "good business woman"
- the emotional load and backward-planned days no one sees
- how ambition can actually make us better mothers
- questions I ask myself when I'm doing too much: What am I trying to prove? To whom? Does it even matter?
- a different way to measure motherhood — not by output, but by alignment
This one's for the mom with toddlers on the floor, the mom of teens in 47 activities, the mom navigating IVF, the mom with grown kids… and the woman who still wants something for herself.
Hey listener, welcome back to The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth. November's theme is family — not just the cute-holiday-card kind, but the real, evolving, sometimes-stretchy relationships that ambitious women have to tend to while they're also growing businesses, teams, and impact.
Today, I'm pulling back the curtain on one of those relationships: my marriage.
This is not a "5 steps to a perfect partnership" episode. It's a real-time reflection from someone who's been married 16 years, building a business for 9, raising 4 kids, and learning (over and over) how to love a person while also loving her work.
I share:
- why I don't give marriage advice (and why I unfollowed the Hollises 👀)
- the story of "dinner at La Hacienda" — aka the night I realized my husband didn't totally know what I do 😅
- what it looks like when two independent people are trying to stay connected in busy seasons
- how our roles have changed from my stay-at-home years to now
- and why tiny, intentional reconnections matter more than grand gestures
This episode's for you if you've ever wondered: "Can I be ambitious and still have a healthy marriage?" Short answer: yes — but it takes communication, trust, and… sometimes queso.
This week on The Found Podcast, we're doing something a little different…and a lot more personal. I finally brought my real-life best friends to the mic — right here around my kitchen table — snacks, beers, belly laughs, squeals, and memories included.
We've been friends for decades — from first kisses to first cars, from weddings to babies, from heartbreaks to hospital rooms. These women are my chosen family. And while this episode may not follow the usual structure… it might be the most heart-expanding one yet.
Whether you've known your girls for 25 years or 25 days — this is your reminder to make room, make time, and make memories with the women who make life sweeter.
What you'll hear in this episode: • The Nashville bachelorette trip we still call "the greatest weekend of our lives" • Why chosen family is sometimes the strongest family you've got • The seasons where we couldn't get together — and why we still never doubted our bond • Stories that absolutely cannot be repeated in public ever again • Celebrating the women who show up at the drop of a text — no questions asked
Key Quotes:
"I cried the whole night when I got home. I was like, I have the best friends." "These women are my chosen family." "We've seen each other through every defining moment of life — all 40 years."
Takeaway: Friendship is the glue that helps us survive the chaos and savor the joy. Don't let time, distance, or busyness keep you from the people who feel like home.
This week on The Found Podcast, we're diving into the heart of friendship — the kind that's rooted in laughter, ritual, and showing up for each other year after year.
As ambitious women, it's easy to let work and responsibilities crowd out connection. But our friendships, the chosen families we build, are what keep us grounded, joyful, and human. In this episode, I'm sharing stories of the traditions that have kept my friendships alive through every season of life, from Christmas candy-making and cookie swaps to spontaneous "meet the baby" dinners and annual scavenger hunts.
We'll also explore what the research says about why rituals matter and how you can start or sustain your own.
Because years from now, it won't be the to-do lists we remember. It'll be the people we gathered with along the way.
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
- Why friendship is a choice, and how to intentionally invest in it
- The story behind Molly's 16(ish)-year Christmas candy-making tradition
- How shared rituals create meaning, stability, and belonging
- The difference between everyday rituals, seasonal traditions, and life milestone moments
- Practical ideas for creating simple, sustainable traditions with friends
- Why connection (not perfection) is what keeps friendships thriving
Key Quotes:
"You won't remember your to-do list five years from now. But you'll remember the time you spent gathered with the people you love."
"Rituals and traditions don't have to be fancy — they just have to be meaningful."
Resources & Links:
- Awake by Jen Hatmaker — a recommended read on friendship, resilience, and community
- The Psychology of Rituals
- Thriving Together: The Benefits of Women's Social Ties
- Follow Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth
- Join the conversation and get updates via The Found Field Notes
What if the way we move through the world—our energy, awareness, and communication—has the power to shape how others move, too?
This week on The Found Podcast, I'm sitting down with Terryn Drieling of The Good Movement Draws Good Movement Podcast to explore what she calls "good movement"—a principle inspired by her life on ranches in the Sandhills of Nebraska and rooted in stockmanship, connection, and emotional awareness.
Terryn believes that, just like animals respond to calm, intentional movement, humans thrive when we learn to regulate our energy, validate others, and lead with love instead of fear. Through her coaching, podcast, and workshops, she helps rural folks improve communication, strengthen relationships, and reconnect with themselves—all while honoring the unique rhythms of small-town life.
Our conversation dives deep into friendship, resilience, and the importance of self-understanding in order to create "good movement" in every relationship you're part of: at home, at work, and in your community.
What You'll Hear in This Episode:
- How Terryn's ranching roots inspired her "good movement" philosophy.
- Why grit and resilience aren't the same and how to cultivate both.
- The difference between validation and agreement, and why it matters in relationships.
- How love- and trust-based communication creates deeper connection than fear-based compliance.
- The power of emotional awareness and self-regulation (and what animals can teach us about it).
- Terryn's personal story of friendship, healing, and mental-emotional growth through her cancer journey.
Key Quote:
"Good movement starts with us. When we understand ourselves, we can show up with more grace, compassion, and awareness—and that draws good movement from everyone around us."
Links:
- Visit Terryn's Website
- Listen to her podcast
- Connect on IG
Friendship as an adult can be complicated — especially when you’re an ambitious woman balancing work, motherhood, and a full life. That’s why this week’s guest, Nina Badzin, has spent over a decade studying, writing about, and talking about what makes friendships work (and why they sometimes don’t).
Nina is the host of the Dear Nina podcast, a Top 1% charted show that’s been featured in The Wall Street Journal, TIME, NPR, and The Washington Post. She’s made it her mission to help women rethink how we approach adult friendships with grace, intention, and a healthy dose of realism.
In this conversation, Molly and Nina unpack what it really takes to maintain friendship as ambitious women, from how to handle rejection to why it’s always your turn to reach out.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode: * Why rejection is a natural (and essential) part of life and friendship * The importance of “freshman energy” and physically showing up in new communities * How to overcome fear of initiation and why it’s always your turn to make the first move * Why ambitious women often struggle to prioritize friendship and how to change that * Actionable ways to cultivate connection right where you are
Key Quotes: “If we as adults could learn to have a softer reaction to rejection, we would try more things and friendships wouldn’t feel so high-stakes.” – Nina Badzin
“The people with the happiest social lives accept that it is always their turn. If you make plans, you have plans.” – Nina Badzin
Resources & Links: * Listen to Nina’s podcast: Dear Nina: Conversations About Friendship * Follow Nina on Instagram: @dearninafriendship * Read her essays: ninabadzin.com * Follow Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth * Explore more episodes: mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Okay, real talk: I love my people, but when life gets ambitious, friendship is the first thing that slides off my calendar. Work, kids, and even rest often feel easier to prioritize than grabbing coffee with a friend. But here’s what I’ve learned: friendship isn’t optional — it’s survival.
In this episode, I unpack:
- Why friendship matters for ambitious women (spoiler: it literally improves your health and longevity).
- My own struggles with friendship guilt when I’ve been “too busy” or spread too thin.
- The barriers that get in the way of friendships as we move through different seasons of life.
- Practical strategies to tend to friendships — even when schedules are packed.
This is your reminder that friendships don’t have to be perfect to matter, and they don’t have to be fancy to be meaningful. Whether it’s a quick text or a monthly coffee date, tending to your friendships will make you a better leader, partner, parent, and human.
Key Takeaways:
- Friendship is survival — it’s not extra, it’s essential.
- Friendships don’t have to be perfect to matter.
- It doesn’t have to be fancy to be meaningful.
- You can always restart and reprioritize your friendships, no matter the season you’re in.
Resources & Links:
- Dear Nina Podcast
- Share this episode with a friend you’re recommitting to today.
- Screenshot and tag me @mollyknuth — let me know which friend you’re texting after this episode.
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, there are certain non-negotiables every ambitious woman in business needs to thrive. These are the logistical foundations that prevent burnout and the mindset shifts that help you play the long game.
In this solo episode, Molly shares her personal “Must List”—the tools, systems, and beliefs that have helped her grow and sustain a business while chasing big dreams. From financial systems to friendship, pricing to resilience, this episode is equal parts practical and inspiring.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- Why only 50% of small businesses survive beyond five years (and how you can beat the odds)
- The financial habit that keeps Molly sane in her business
- How to create a repeatable marketing plan that won’t burn you out
- The role boundaries play in sustaining growth
- Why community is a business essential, not just a “nice to have”
- The money mindset shift that will change the way you see pricing
- A simple question to reframe setbacks and build resilience
Resources & Links:
- U.S. Small Business Administration survival rates
- Forbes on women entrepreneurs and funding
- Fundera research on small business burnout
- Connect with Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth
- More episodes + resources: mollyknuthmedia.com
Mid-September is here. It offers a fresh start, but the final months of the year are looming. That means Q4 energy is buzzing, but so is the pressure.
Which got me wondering...How can we as ambitious women stay motivated without burning out or setting ourselves up for disappointment?
In this episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth, we dive into the difference between healthy pressure and harmful pressure, how to set meaningful goals, identify non-negotiables, account for seasonal rhythms, and break your work into manageable sprints. I share actionable strategies to celebrate micro-wins, build in recovery, and create a Q4 that feels aligned with your goals, your life, and your values.
You’ll learn:
- How to identify what “healthy pressure” really feels like.
- The importance of setting 1–2 non-negotiables for the season.
- How to plan for seasonal changes and holiday distractions.
- Breaking your goals into sprints to stay focused and motivated.
- Why celebrating micro-wins matters more than waiting for the big finish.
- Building intentional recovery into your schedule to prevent burnout.
If you’re ready to finish the year strong without losing your energy or joy this episode is for you.
In the hustle of entrepreneurship, we’re often told to say yes—to opportunity, growth, and grit. But sometimes the most powerful move we can make… is to say no. In this solo episode, Molly reflects on five pivotal moments when choosing “no” over “yes” created the space, alignment, and peace she truly needed—both in her business and in her life.
From walking away from steady income to turning down the dream office space, Molly walks you through the stories, lessons, and surprising gifts that came with each decision. Whether you’re deep in decision fatigue or sensing it’s time for a shift, this episode will remind you:
“Every time we say no, we’re also saying yes—to space, to integrity, to what really matters.”
Inside this episode:
- The early career “no” that opened the door to MKM
- Why walking away from a client six weeks in felt hard but right
- Saying no to real estate dreams and big-agency expectations
- The evolution from service provider to strategic leader
- The cost (and clarity) of holding onto things that no longer fit
Resources Mentioned:
- Bronnie Ware’s Top Five Regrets of the Dying
- MKM Founder's Field Notes Email List: https://mkm.myflodesk.com/email
- Follow Molly on Instagram: @mollyknuth
- Empowerment Communities: https://www.the-restorationproject.com/empowerment-communities/
In this episode of The Found Podcast, I sit down with my friend, client, and total ray of sunshine—Brooke Fitzgerald. As the Energy builder, Coach, and Partner at The Restoration Project, Brooke brings an incredible mix of empathy, authenticity, and actionable tools to her work with individuals, teams, and organizations.
Together, we talk about:
- How change begins with the individual
- The power of personal growth tools and how Brooke uses them in her coaching
- What it means to lead with integrity and intuition
- How to say “no" more and “yes" less
- Trusting yourself and finding your way to enough
Brooke’s energy is contagious, her wisdom is practical, and her heart for helping others grow is unmatched. If you're in a season of transition, decision-making, or wanting to better support your team or yourself—this one is for you.
Tune in to feel empowered, inspired, and equipped to grow—right where you are.
Resources & Links:
- Learn more about The Restoration Project: https://www.the-restorationproject.com/
- Connect with Brooke Fitzgerald: https://www.the-restorationproject.com/our-story/meet-our-team/brooke-fitzgerald/
- Follow me on IG: @mollyknuth_mkm
Time of recording: 1:03 PM on Friday, May 23, 2025. And while that might not mean anything to you, it marks a huge transition in my world: my four kids are officially out of school for the summer. For the next three months, my home will be full of extra bodies, extra snacks, and a whole lot less quiet.
In this episode, I’m sharing what it looks like (and feels like) to move into summer as an ambitious woman, a business owner, and a mom. I talk about the mindset shifts I’ve had to make, the lessons I’ve learned from past summers, and the real-life logistics that help me stay grounded when life gets chaotic.
This isn’t a step-by-step guide—it’s a conversation between you and me. If you’re staring down the summer calendar wondering how the heck you're going to do it all, this episode is here to remind you: you’re not alone, and you don’t have to do it perfectly.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
- Why my original “just work in the mornings” plan was hilariously unrealistic (yes, sarcasm included)
- The hard truth: our kids need more structure than we think—and so do we
- How I’ve learned to adjust my expectations instead of just pushing through
- Why this might be a better season for planning than producing
- What it looks like to make space for rest and fun (even when it’s not my natural instinct)
- The importance of routines, especially for little ones who thrive on consistency
- Why reduced productivity isn’t a failure—it’s just a shift
If you’re a high-achieving woman navigating summer with a full house and a full calendar, I hope this gives you permission to breathe, pivot, and let some things go.
And if nothing else, know this: you’re doing great. Really.
🎧 As heard on the podcast:
Fall Empowerment Communities with The Restoration Project are open for enrollment! Join Molly in one of two small, powerful groups for leadership-driven women ready to grow in community — Connect to Something Greater and dive into the book Mary Magdalene Revealed or participate in Lead with Love, a multimedia, multi-month journey exploring how we can lead in a grounded, loving way. ✨ Spots are limited — learn more here: https://www.the-restorationproject.com/empowerment-communities/ 💌 Want more behind-the-scenes real talk from Molly?
Subscribe to Founder’s Field Notes — her free weekly email full of business wisdom, storytelling, and the messy middle of being a founder. It’s honest, inspiring, and a little rebellious (just like this podcast).
✨ Join the list:
2025 has been a year of growth, learning, and bold decisions.
In this episode, I break down the top five moves I've made so far this year in my business, how they impacted me, and what you can learn from them to inspire your next level.
Spoiler: They’re more internal than you might expect.
What You'll Learn:
- Why a beauty upgrade changed how I show up
- How curiosity and creativity opened new doors
- The power of connection and letting go of control
- Why personal growth is often the path to business growth
Key Takeaways:
- Confidence starts with small, seemingly superficial shifts
- Curiosity leads to serendipitous growth
- Creativity isn’t just a luxury—it’s necessary
- Connection fuels everything
- Releasing control can be the most strategic move you make
Mentioned in the Episode:
- Strengths Coaching with Arica Ohloff
- Your Brain on Art (book)
- The Restoration Project Celebration Days
- Creator’s Club
- IRDC Experience
She’s back! In this action-packed follow-up episode, Amanda Hofman — one of the founders of NYC-based Go To Market Studio — returns to The Found Podcast to talk all things strategic merch.
We first met Amanda in Episode 157, where we dove into her career journey and how she built a company rooted in intentional, anti-boring custom merchandise for brands that want to stand out and create lasting impressions.
In this 2025-focused conversation, Amanda and I get tactical about:
- How to make branded merch that actually gets used (and remembered)
- Why merch should be part of your strategic marketing plan—not an afterthought
- Specific ways service-based businesses, speakers, coaches, and digital brands can integrate merch into their sales funnels and brand experiences
- Trends in merch design, sourcing, and storytelling that can help you level up in the new year
- Actual examples of real businesses and how Amanda would coach them to create and use merch
This is a must-listen episode for anyone planning a product launch, team retreat, client gifting campaign, or live event.
If you want to grow your visibility and deepen your connection with your audience in a tangible way—this is your episode.
🔗 Connect with Amanda:
Website: Go To Market Studio Instagram: @gotomarketstudio
🎧 As heard on the podcast:
Fall Empowerment Communities with The Restoration Project are open for enrollment! Join Molly in one of two small, powerful groups for leadership-driven women ready to grow in community — Connect to Something Greater and dive into the book Mary Magdalene Revealed or participate in Lead with Love, a multimedia, multi-month journey exploring how we can lead in a grounded, loving way. ✨ Spots are limited — learn more here: https://www.the-restorationproject.com/empowerment-communities/ 💌 Want more behind-the-scenes real talk from Molly?
Subscribe to Founder’s Field Notes — her free weekly email full of business wisdom, storytelling, and the messy middle of being a founder. It’s honest, inspiring, and a little rebellious (just like this podcast).
✨ Join the list: https://mkm.myflodesk.com/email
What if marketing your book didn’t feel overwhelming, or like you were blindly throwing posts into the social media void? In this episode of The Found Podcast, I sit down with book marketing expert Jenn Hanson-DePaula to talk about sustainable, strategic ways to reach your ideal readers—without selling your soul or spending thousands on fleeting publicity.
And while a majority of our conversation is about marketing books (and what we're currently reading!), the skills and strategies Jenn shares are applicable to any listener who is marketing a product or service.
With over 24 years in the industry, Jenn has helped everyone from first-time self-published authors to New York Times bestsellers craft marketing strategies that actually work because they’re built around clarity, connection, and the author’s unique voice.
We talk about:
- The biggest mistakes authors make when launching a book
- Why you don’t need to be everywhere or do “what everyone else is doing”
- The difference between trend-chasing and relationship-building
- How to create a book marketing strategy that serves you for the long haul
Whether you're preparing for your first launch or trying to revive a backlist, Jenn’s wisdom will help you feel empowered, equipped, and excited to connect with the readers who truly need your words.
Links & Resources:
- Learn more about Jenn & her services here: https://jenndepaula.com/
- Take the free Author Platform Quiz or access other FREE resources here: https://jenndepaula.com/free-downloads
- Follow Jenn on Instagram: @jenndepaulabookmarketing
- Listen to her podcast: Book Marketing Simplified
Sponsor Shoutout:
Today’s episode is brought to you by Hey Sister! — a one-day event created for rural women craving in-person connection, authentic conversation, and fresh inspiration for life and work in small towns. Happening Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington, Iowa with incredible speakers, hands-on activities, and tangible takeaways for your personal and professional life.
🎟️ Grab your ticket at heysisterevent.com and come find your community of like-minded women this spring!
In this back-to-basics episode (that we're now going to turn into a series called Molly's Must Haves) of The Found Podcast, we're diving into the real, raw, and refreshing marketing moves that have worked for me in 2025.
I’m pulling back the curtain on my own strategy for Molly Knuth Media, revealing what’s working, what I’ve let go of, and how you can apply these lessons to your own business.
Whether you’re in year one or year nine, this episode will help you rethink your approach and give you full permission to market in a way that feels good, grounded, and effective.
Here’s what we cover:
- Why 2025 has been a pivotal year for shifts in life, leadership, and marketing
- The importance of understanding the season of your business
- The best marketing moves I made this year (and what I quit doing)
- How to use AI (like ChatGPT!) the right way
- Why I’m doubling down on podcasting, email, and in-person connection
- What it means to lead ambitious women through authenticity, not algorithms
Key Takeaways:
- Put your time, energy, and dollars where it makes the most sense for your goals.
- Let go of outdated rules — especially on social media.
- Use tools like AI to save time and start strong, not to replace your voice.
- Know what season your business is in so you can market accordingly.
- You don’t need to be everywhere — just where it matters.
Resources Mentioned:
- Founder’s Field Notes email series
- Descript for podcast and video content
- ChatGPT and other AI tools for creative kickstarts
Action Steps for Listeners:
- Audit your current marketing strategy: What’s working? What’s not?
- Identify what feels aligned and sustainable
- Give yourself permission to evolve
Ready to reimagine your marketing? Tune in now and let’s build something that feels really good.
Sponsor Shoutout:
Today’s episode is brought to you by Hey Sister! — a one-day event created for rural women craving in-person connection, authentic conversation, and fresh inspiration for life and work in small towns. Happening Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington, Iowa with incredible speakers, hands-on activities, and tangible takeaways for your personal and professional life.
🎟️ Grab your ticket at heysisterevent.com and come find your community of like-minded women this spring!
This week, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a dear friend and incredible leader: Sarah Watson. Sarah and I have worked closely together through The Restoration Project, a coaching and consulting organization in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, helping leaders and teams live, lead, and work with greater meaning.
In today’s conversation, Sarah shares her gift for creating calm, building intentional community experiences, and empowering others to take their next best step. We talk about:
- How creating space and connection for leaders can fuel real action
- The importance of protecting your time, energy, and heart
- How evolving through different seasons of life and career brings out new sides of ourselves
- Why listening deeply to yourself is the key to finding your next step
- The story behind Sarah’s journey, including quitting her career twice to find the right fit for her life and mission
Sarah’s wisdom, warmth, and leadership truly embody the spirit of The Restoration Project and everything she touches, including her newest passion project, the Kick Ass Lady Club (yes, it’s just as awesome as it sounds!).
If you’ve been craving more intention, ease, and community in your life, this episode is going to feel like a deep breath.
🎧 Tune in now to hear Sarah’s inspiring story and practical advice for building a life and community you love.
Sponsor Shoutout:
Today’s episode is brought to you by Hey Sister! — a one-day event created for rural women craving in-person connection, authentic conversation, and fresh inspiration for life and work in small towns. Happening Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington, Iowa with incredible speakers, hands-on activities, and tangible takeaways for your personal and professional life.
🎟️ Grab your ticket at heysisterevent.com and come find your community of like-minded women this spring!
In this heartwarming episode of The Found Podcast, Molly takes you inside one of Dubuque, Iowa's most inspiring spaces: Convivium Urban Farmstead.
Molly sits down with Leslie Shalabi, co-founder of Convivium, to talk about how their nonprofit uses the power of food to combat disconnection, build relationships, and cultivate community.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- The founding story of Convivium Urban Farmstead
- How food can be a universal tool for connection and healing
- Simple, local actions that create a ripple effect in communities
- Why creating intentional spaces matters in divided times
- How anyone can start building community with what they already have
Sponsor Shoutout: Today’s episode is brought to you by Hey Sister! — a one-day event created for rural women craving in-person connection, authentic conversation, and fresh inspiration for life and work in small towns. Happening Thursday, May 22, 2025, in Washington, Iowa with incredible speakers, hands-on activities, and tangible takeaways for your personal and professional life.
🎟️ Grab your ticket at heysisterevent.com and come find your community of like-minded women this spring!
Connect with Convivium Urban Farmstead: Website | Instagram
Referenced in this episode:
- Episode 191: Creativity as Joy: Embracing the Process with Ana Dellamuth of Lovely Little Light
Tune in and get inspired to nourish your own community, one connection at a time.
Imagine a place where you walk in and people genuinely ask how your day is, not out of politeness, but because they care. A third place. In today’s episode, we dive into why physical, in-person communities matter more than ever for women, especially in our hyper-digital age.
In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What a “Third Place” is and why it matters ✅ The science-backed benefits of in-person connection ✅ How your community shapes your life and business ✅ Small and big ways to engage with your local community ✅ How to create your own gathering space if one doesn’t exist
Featured Resources:
- U.S. Surgeon General Report on Loneliness (2023)
- Harvard Women’s Health Watch on longevity and connection
- Gallup Workplace Study on remote work and isolation
Your Challenge This Week: Step out of your routine and find (or create) your third place. Share where you’ve found community by tagging me @MollyKnuth_MKM on Instagram or leaving a podcast review!
This week on The Found Podcast, we're continuing our conversation on one of the most important ingredients for female entrepreneurs and small business owners in 2025: community. And who better to help us dig deeper into this topic than returning guest and true community-building expert, Emily Reuschel?
Emily is a rural wife, mom, and multi-passionate entrepreneur with a heart for growth and connection. From her early career as a teacher and camp counselor to her current work facilitating masterminds and leading in-person retreats, Emily’s mission is clear: help women come home to themselves and find belonging with others.
In this episode, we explore the many forms community can take: virtual, in-person, and even niche-based (yes, we even have a moment to ooh and aah over the Empyrean series!). Emily brings her grounded insight, tangible advice, and heartfelt encouragement to the table, reminding us that finding your people starts with intention, energy, and a willingness to be seen.
If you’ve been craving real connection this year, or wondering where to even begin, this conversation is a must-listen. And be sure to stick around all the way to the end. Emily’s final thoughts are a gentle but powerful nudge to take the next step.
In this episode, we cover:
- Emily’s journey from educator to community leader
- The value and dynamics of virtual vs. local communities
- How shared passions and niche interests can create unexpected bonds
- The energy and magic that come from intentional gatherings
- Practical tips for finding or creating community that fits you
- How vulnerability leads to deeper connection—online and offline
Resources & Links: 🎙 Listen to Emily’s first episode on The Found Podcast here. 📚 Learn more about Emily and her work at emilyreuschel.com or give her a follow on IG. 💬 Let us know what resonated with you—DM us or leave a review!
Hey friend, welcome back to The Found Podcast! If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years of business, it’s this: You cannot do this alone. No matter how independent, driven, or capable you are, success is never a solo journey.
Yet, so many ambitious women hesitate to reach out, lean on others, or build the community they need to thrive.
In this episode, I share my journey of discovering the power of community, from my first vision-boarding session with EmpowerHer to the mastermind groups and business friendships that have shaped my success. We dive into why finding your people is crucial and how you can start building your own circle of support today.
What You’ll Learn: * Why isolation leads to burnout (and how to avoid it!) * The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people who challenge and support you * Actionable steps to find, build, and nurture your community * How to let go of the "I can do it all by myself" mentality and lean on others when needed
Key Takeaways: * You are not alone. Find the right community that aligns with your goals and values. * Your community should challenge you. Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. * Success isn’t about doing it all. It’s about knowing who to call when you need help.
If you’re feeling isolated while you pursue your ambitious goals, take this episode as your sign to get started in finding your people.
This week on The Found Podcast, I’m joined by the hilarious and insightful Lauren Trefethren—the creative force behind the beloved Instagram account Lauren Midwest. If you love Midwest culture, motherhood musings, and content that perfectly balances humor and heart, you’re in for a treat.
Lauren’s journey is anything but conventional (which is what I LOVE). She started as a school counselor, but life had other plans. Now, she’s building a thriving online community by sharing relatable, laugh-out-loud Midwest moments while also tackling deeper topics like grief, identity, and the realities of content creation.
Oh yeah, and did I mention that as of March 26, you can now catch her on Netflix's new reality show Million Dollar Secret? Yeah, she's on that.
In this episode, we dive into: ▪️Lauren's unexpected career pivot from counseling to content creation ▪️The highs and lows of showing up authentically online ▪️The challenges and misconceptions of being a full-time creator ▪️A nostalgic trip back to mid-2000s culture during our small talk round
And because we like to keep it real, we’re also letting you in on some serious tech struggles we had while recording this episode (Zoom, why must you test us?!).
Hit play now and let us know: What’s your favorite Midwest stereotype that you 100% live by?
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!
Connect with Lauren: 📸 @laurenmidwest on Instagram
Welcome back to The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth! I am beyond excited for this week’s conversation with the one and only Thea Larsen, the powerhouse behind Cowgirls Over Coffee.
At the end of 2024, I started noticing a lot of Instagram engagement from a particular account and thought to myself: "There’s no way this person is following me." Thea was out there making an impact, building a community, and guiding ambitious women in a way that was inspiring and fresh. How could I have even crossed her radar?
Fast forward to today, and not only did we connect on Instagram, but we recorded two whole podcasts for you to enjoy and learn from!
In this episode, Thea and I go beyond business and marketing to talk about: ✨ How we consume social media in ways that serve us ✨ The difference between coaching and facilitating growth ✨ The soft skills that help us live full, well-rounded lives ✨ Developing consistency and rhythms that fit our lives—not just a calendar ✨ Managing the push-and-pull of ambition, motherhood, and personal well-being
Thea is a former CEO turned working ranch wife, mom of two, and community builder who helps women find balance, reduce overwhelm, and grow in a way that feels right—without sacrificing their dreams through her Cowgirls Over Coffee community.
She’s relatable, conversational, and the accountability partner we all need! You’re going to love this episode.
🎧 Tune in now!
📌 Resources & Links:
- Follow Thea on Instagram: @cowgirlsovercoffee
- Learn more about Cowgirls Over Coffee: cowgirlsovercoffee.com
- Catch my episode on Thea’s podcast by tapping here.
If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review!
Welcome to another episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth! Today, I get to sit down with the incredible Dr. Claire Muselman.
I was introduced to Dr. Claire less than a month ago when I attended a women-in-business event in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She was the keynote speaker, and let me tell you, I was immediately captivated. The way she engaged with the audience, energized the room, and encouraged interaction was nothing short of electric. From the very first moments of our conversation, you’re going to feel that energy radiate through your speakers.
In today’s episode, we dive deep into the power of energy and how the energy you bring into a room impacts your environment, your relationships, and ultimately, your success. Dr. Claire shares incredible insights about leadership, innovation, rewiring your brain, and stepping into your fullest potential.
So grab your notebook and pen because she is going to be dropping statistics, strategies, and insights that you’ll want to capture and implement. Trust me, this is an episode packed with actionable takeaways!
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How to choose your energy and use it to influence those around you
- The importance of rewiring your brain for success and innovation
- How to enhance communication and leadership skills
- Strategies for personal and professional growth
- How to create a lasting, positive impact
About Dr. Claire Muselman: Dr. Claire Muselman is passionate about leadership, empowerment, and innovation. Through her work, she helps individuals ascend to new heights by igniting their passion, illuminating their leadership, and helping them radiate the brilliance they already possess. She brings a powerful mix of energy, strategy, and insight that will leave you inspired and ready to take action.
Connect with Dr. Claire Muselman:
- Website: https://drclairemuselman.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drclairemuselman/
Welcome back to The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth! In this episode, we kick off Women's History Month with a deep dive into the state of women in 2025, the third year in a row of this particular episode format.
This week I reflect on the challenges women face in the workforce, access to childcare, pay disparity, and political representation. Drawing from research, statistics, and personal experiences, we discuss how much progress has been made and how far we still have to go. I also explore the importance of finding personal success and working together as women to overcome obstacles and move mountains....because none of us can do this work alone, we were never meant to.
Key topics include:
- The impact of childcare costs and accessibility on women in 2025
- The current state of gender pay disparity
- Representation of women in government and politics
- The overwhelming nature of social media and how to manage information overload about what women "should" be pursuing
- The power of women uniting and finding their unique paths to success
Resources:
- Blog post with detailed citations and sources now available at mollyknuthmedia.com/blog.
Listen in to explore these critical issues and how we can all contribute to positive change for women’s futures!
This week, I’m joined by my friend and creative powerhouse, Ana Dellamuth! Anna and I first connected through Empower Her, a community for female entrepreneurs in Eastern Iowa, and I’ve been inspired by her joyful outlook ever since.
Anna’s journey from teacher to creator is a beautiful example of how creativity isn’t just about art—it’s about community, courage, and joy. She specializes in hand lettering, calligraphy, and brand design, but she also brings people together through her Creators Club, a monthly gathering where women explore new creative projects (and step out of their comfort zones!).
In this episode, we dive into: ✨ The importance of creativity in everyday life (even if you don’t think you’re "artistic") ✨ How creativity can be a tool for connection, confidence, and self-discovery ✨ The joy of trying new things without the pressure of perfection ✨ Why creativity is more about the process than the final product ✨ My (hilarious) experience with finger knitting and how it pushed me past my fears
Ana’s message is one we all need to hear: creativity is joy. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about making space to explore, grow, and have fun.
Hit play and get ready to be inspired to bring a little more creativity into your life! 🎧
📲 Free Resource for Business Owners: 10 Questions to Ask Prior to a Rebrand
📲 Free Resource for Creative Enthusiasts: Creativity Challenge
📲 Learn more about Lovely Little Light: https://www.lovelylittlelight.com/home
📲 Follow Ana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelylittlelight/
Are you creating or just consuming? In today’s episode, we’re diving into the power of creativity and how shifting into a creative mindset can make your life more fulfilling and productive in unconventional ways.
What You’ll Learn: * Why 75% of people feel they’re not living up to their creative potential * How creativity is a learned behavior, not just a natural talent * The importance of creativity beyond traditional artistic expression * What you need to foster creativity: time, space, and inspiration * How I’m prioritizing creativity in 2025 * The science behind right-brain vs. left-brain thinking and achieving flow * The CAT Model (Calm Down, Make Art, Transcend) from Dr. Martha Beck
Let’s break free from the idea that creativity is a luxury—it’s a necessity for problem-solving, innovation, and living a more joyful life. Tune in to find out how you can tap into your creative potential in 2025!
💡 Let’s connect! Share your thoughts on Instagram @mollyknuth_mkm and tag me in your creative projects!
Helpful Links:
- Lovely Little Light Creator's Club
- Dr. Martha Beck episode of We Can Do Hard Things
In this episode of The Found Podcast, I’m sitting down with a guest whose words have been inspiring me for years—poet and author Jennae Cecelia. If you’ve ever found yourself drawn to poetry as a way to process emotions, reconnect with your values, or simply feel seen, this conversation is for you.
Jennae shares her journey of discovering poetry as her calling, the role of creativity in personal growth, and how writing has helped her (and so many others) return to themselves. We also dive into the process of writing — how she’s structured her days and her life to make room for writing and celebrating life.
If you’re a woman navigating change, seeking creative expression, or dreaming of publishing your own words, Jennae’s story will remind you that your voice matters.
In This Episode, We Cover: ✨ Jennae’s journey to finding herself through writing ✨ Practical insights into her writing and creative process ✨ How the publishing world has evolved—and what it’s like to self-publish a book AND an exciting announcement about something new in 2025! ✨ Why creativity is a necessary part of reconnecting with who you are
More About Jennae Cecelia: Jennae is a poet and best-selling author who has been sharing her words with the world since 2017. With multiple self-published collections under her belt, she is now preparing to release her first traditionally published book later this year—a major milestone in her career. Through her work, Jennae encourages women to embrace creativity as a way to process emotions and rediscover themselves.
📖 Check out Jennae’s books and upcoming releases: jennaececelia.com 📲 Follow Jennae on Instagram: @jennaececelia
It’s 2025, and I’m kicking off the year (okay, I know, it is February already, but I'm just getting warmed up over here) with some thoughts on what women—especially ambitious moms, business owners, and entrepreneurs—don’t need more of this year.
Spoiler alert: it’s not another free download that's only two pages long, another social media platform, or another "life-changing" productivity hack.
In this episode, I’m sharing how I eased into the new year (hello, sauna time and slow workouts) and a download of information that hit me on a random Saturday. We’re talking about stripping away the excess and focusing on what really matters: creating instead of consuming, making space for what we love, and redefining success on our terms.
Tune in to hear:
- How I intentionally eased into 2025
- Why women don’t need more shoulds this year
- What it really looks like to align with your own values
- The power of connection, third spaces, and nerding out over what you love
- Why you were never meant to do life alone as an ambitious woman
It’s time to stop chasing more and start making space for what truly fuels us. Let’s get find ourselves in episode 188 of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth.
Connect with Molly:
Find me and all my business life/personal life shenanigans at @mollyknuth_mkm on Instagram and Facebook. Subscribe to Founder's Field Notes, my weekly email series, where I talk about what I'm observing in life and in business in real time at https://mkm.myflodesk.com/email.
What are you wondering about in 2025?
“Wonder” is my word of the year, and over here I’ve been wondering:
- What don’t I know yet? What do I want/need to learn this year?
- What does work look like in the months ahead?
- Where do I need to slow down?
- What do I need to stop doing?
- What does my audience need to hear? Want to hear?
- What moments in my life made me know “wonder?”
So I took a little pause on recording and producing new episodes to make space and get perspective, and this episode is the product of all that wondering.
The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth will be back weekly in February with more stories and strategies for finding ourselves while founding businesses as ambitious women.
Links from the episode:
- The Daily Stoic
- Onyx Storm
How did your year go?
Honestly.
How do you measure the "success" or "failure" of a year?
I propose looking at 3 areas of your business and/or life to unpack the past 12 months and make room for how you'd like 2025 to be:
- Numbers
- Value
- Time
Listen in to this week's episode for all the details and questions to help you reflect on 2024 and make space for the new year ahead.
You can be transformed by this episode if you let it. I’m 100% serious. Today I’m sitting down with Money’s Mom herself, Gina Knox. Guys, I’m seriously tingly at the opportunity to share her message with you this week on the pod! Gina Knox is a financial coach for entrepreneurs with variable income. She teaches entrepreneurs and small business owners how to save $100k with her program Small Business Money School, then she helps her clients create a 7-figure wealth portfolio with her mastermind 7 Figure Wealth. Over her career as a coach Gina has helped her clients save $8,257,123.75 (as of 10-28-24)! Gina’s podcast, Small Business, Big Money, is an amazing resource for those who want more financial understanding AND key skills and strategies that will help them get there. Personally, I worked with Gina since March 2024 to help me build savings at MKM and help identify. And I can personally attest to the fact that her systems work. I have more money on hand than I have in the history of my business’ 7-year history, and I know how to put my money to work for me. In this episode we talk about money systems you can implement (aka: the Cash Flow Waterfall), debt, money mindset, planning for the future, and building wealth. But most of all, I want you to hear the energy and excitement of our conversation and that money can feel this level of freeing for you too. Trust me, if I can do these things, you can to. You can be transformed by this episode if you let it. Key Takeaways * “Your financial data in your business is the biggest gold mine of data that your business has. It is such a wasted opportunity when folks ignore it or avoid it.” * “What’s important about money is that you have some kind of mental model for how to visualize it in your brain.” * “Businesses spend money to make money.” * “I’ve worked with over 700 companies, and I’ve never seen a business that hasn’t used debt at one point or another.” * “Debt is a business tool.” * “Stop waiting for a windfall, solve your actual money problems.”
Key Links * Molly’s episode on Gina’s Podcast * Small Business Money School * Small Business, Big Money podcast
In this episode...you might get uncomfortable. I know it's only recently that I'm not getting itchy when talking about MONEY with others.
But that's exactly why today's conversation is so important, especially for female entrepreneurs and small business owners.
You see, the less we talk about money, the bigger it looms over us.
The less we talk about money, the more shame and guilt is allowed to grow.
The less we talk about money, the more stories we make up in the absence of facts and data.
So today, I'm diving in to my personal money story over the course of my life and business at Molly Knuth Media.
We'll unpack the money misbeliefs I held for decades and the people and tools that have helped me dismantle those misbeliefs in recent years to build healthy money systems and practices.
Links: * Managing Your Money Mindset with Sheila Hansen * Perspectives from a Failing Business Owner * Pricing and Packaging * Sheila Hansen CPA * Sheila Hansen Profitable Women Podcast * Gina Knox Small Business Money School * Gina Knox Small Business Big Money Podcast
Today I welcome a past guest, dear friend, and resilience expert to the podcast to share skills and strategies that we can practice to stay resilient in our lives, work, and engagements. Whitney Sullivan is a speaker, educator, team trainer, and coach with a background in health, wellness, higher education, communications, entrepreneurship and the Enneagram. All these life experiences have allowed her to test and build up her resilience over time and use it to help her current clients and students build what she refers to as their “resilience batteries.” The Resilience Battery In today’s episode, Whitney shares that resilience is like a battery - the more charge you have going into challenges, setbacks and failures, the more capacity you have to thrive in the face of them. In the interview, Whitney shares that resilience is less about willpower and more about wellness. Tending to your resilience battery will help you stay energized, manage stress, prevent overwhelm and avoid burnout in work, life and leadership. By practicing self awareness and knowing when our own resilience batteries are in the various color zones, we can be proactive about our wellness and enact interventions to keep us healthy and resilient. Green Zone: your most energized self. We still experience stressors in this zone, it’s just that our challenges are balanced evenly with our comforts. We have capacity to face whatever comes our way. Yellow Zone: your most stressed self. This is when challenges start to outpace comforts and things feel like they’re moving faster than we can keep up with. The signs for needed self-care intensify a little bit, so we want to intervene and address them here. Orange Zone: your exhausted self. Your mind and body’s final call before depletion, and we start to get “emergency alerts” from our body. These alerts might appear as outbursts, reacting to triggers, or feeling the desire to quit or engage in numbing behaviors. We may still be in a good mood and have decent morale, but our highs are higher and our lows are lower. Red Zone: your depleted self. Your nervous system is overwhelmed and you experience a hard time making decisions, problem solving, and seeing the big picture. In the interview, Whitney shares stories, strategies and skills to help you identify and move through the zones in your own life to keep yourself resilient and healthy. For additional support, you can grab her Resilience Battery Tracker or her To-Do List Audit at the links below. Key Takeaways * “Owning a business is a masterclass of resilience.” * “[Resilience is] not this innate ability, it’s a nurtured capacity.” * “[Resilience is] not a matter of willpower, it’s a matter of wellness.” * “I like to think of resilience as a battery and the more charge you have going into each day, the more capacity you have to thrive, no matter what challenges come your way.” * “We have to go on offense with our wellness, not defense.” * “I want everyone to not underestimate the power of 10-20 minutes.” * “I’m always evaluating what I need to grit and what I need to quit.” * “One thing that lead me into burnout was this ‘I never quit’ mentality…and it’s sneaky because that looks like resilience, doesn’t it? …but that actually just exposed me to a lot of harm in my health.” * “To grit is staying the course and working hard when the easy, but wrong thing, would be to quit. To quit is letting go of what’s not working and moving on when the easy, but wrong thing, would be to grit.”
More about Whitney: Whitney Hinshaw Sullivan is a resilience speaker, Enneagram practitioner, team-builder and coach. Her professional training and coaching business is designed to: * Help leaders and teams use the Enneagram to positively influence their relationships, responsibilities and results * Support emerging leaders in the development of skills in communication, stress management and self-mastery * Deliver keynotes and company webinars on resilience, connection and purpose
With a background in leading health/wellness and student leadership programs in higher education, she has been a professional educator since 2012. Whitney's favorite moments in higher education were always when others stopped by her office and asked, "Hey, Whitney. Do you got a minute?" She loved the coaching conversations and mentorship moments that followed so much, that she opened her own business in 2021 in order to do it even more. In 2024, Whitney created The Enneagram Studio: a virtual learning platform designed to deliver professional Enneagram trainings, masterminds, coaching and more. Her goal is to demystify the Enneagram and make it an accessible and mainstream professional development tool in leadership, business and higher education settings. She currently lives in Bozeman, Montana with her husband Tim, where she is also an avid reader, outdoor adventurer, and communication professor at Montana State University. Connect with Whitney at https://www.whitneysullivan.com/ Resilience Battery Tracker: https://whitneysullivan.myflodesk.com/tracker To-Do List Audit: https://whitneysullivan.myflodesk.com/audit
Last week both in our email and on The Found Podcast, we dove into the concept of “resilience” and how the people we surround ourselves with can help us through the highs and lows that come with being small business owners and entrepreneurs. Our discussion drew upon the Harvard Business Review article entitled “The Secret to Building Resilience” by Rob Cross, Karen Dillon, and Danna Greenberg. In their article, the authors found that resilience has been shown to positively influence work satisfaction and engagement, as well as improve overall well-being, and lower depression levels. But they are very clear that resilience isn’t just a kind of solitary internal “grit” that allows us to bounce back. Their research shows that resilience is also heavily enabled by strong relationships and networks. Using that as our model for resilience, I can apply it to many interactions in my personal and professional life. I can apply it to various seasons in my personal life and my business at Molly Knuth Media, but I also think we can apply it to our business marketing, because Lord knows we need to bounce back from setbacks often when our marketing plans go awry. So in today’s episode of the podcast, I ask the question: “How can we stay resilient in our marketing?” Molly's thoughts on resilient marketing: 1. People do business with people. 2. You choose the marketing trends, don't let the trends choose you. 3. Tell stories in your marketing content, assets, and channels. 4. Focus on long-term impact, not short-term wins.
In today's episode (Number 182 now streaming on iTunes and Spotify), I go into detail about how you can use these resilient marketing methods for your own business in Q4 of 2024 and beyond. More Helpful Links Link to full article: https://hbr.org/2021/01/the-secret-to-building-resilience Submit your Q&A here: https://bit.ly/thefoundpodcastquestions Book a discovery call here: https://bit.ly/30minuteswithmkm
I’ve been in business for 8 years here at Molly Knuth Media and had this podcast for over 4 of those years, and let me be the first to tell you: it has not always been easy. There have been successes and struggles. High points and lows. People who’ve been on my team that are no longer with me. Contracts I’ve had to cancel with clients. Contracts clients have cancelled with me. Programs I’ve started and ended. Groups I’ve joined and quit. Being in business this long means I’ve seen some things…and I also know enough to know that I do not and will not ever know it all. I can just do my best to stay open and stay resilient in the face of it all. I recently read an article from the Harvard Business Review entitled “The Secret to Building Resilience” by Rob Cross, Karen Dillon, and Danna Greenberg Resilience is typically described in our society as the ability to bounce back from setbacks, and this ability to stay resilient is often described as the difference between “successful” and “unsuccessful” people. In their article, the authors found that resilience has been shown to positively influence work satisfaction and engagement, as well as improve overall well-being, and lower depression levels. But they are very clear that resilience isn’t just a kind of solitary internal “grit” that allows us to bounce back. Their research shows that resilience is also heavily enabled by strong relationships and networks. So what can we learn from this today? We can each nurture and build our resilience through cultivating a wide variety of interactions with people in our personal and professional lives. These interactions can help us to alter the magnitude of any challenge we face. Our relationships can also help crystalize the meaningful purpose in what we are doing or help us see a path forward to overcome a setback. It is our relationships and connections that motivate us to keep going, even in our toughest times. In this episode of the podcast we explore a little more of the article and apply its resilience exercise to our own businesses. Be prepared to get gritty as we analyze our own resilience and ask ourselves: “Are my relationships broad and deep enough to help support me when me and my business hit setbacks?” Episode and article takeaways: * Resilience is not an individual characteristic through nature/nurture - but through connections and interactions. * “Resilience is not something we need to find deep down inside ourselves: we can actually become more resilient in the process of connecting with others in our most challenging times.” * “Collectively, the relationships we develop are a toolbox that we can turn to in our most difficult times, which we can rely upon to help us navigate day-to-day life challenges” * Relationships and connections help us in the follow 8 areas 1. shift or manage workloads 2. make sense of people or politics in certain situations 3. find confidence to push back and help self-advocate 4. see a path forward 5. release negative emotions 6. laugh at ourselves and the situation 7. remind us of purpose/meaning 8. maintain perspective * If you feel like your resilience needs a little boost, ask yourself: “are your relationships broad enough and deep enough?”
In conclusion, we are not resilient because we have survived. We are resilient because we set ourselves up to connect with people that allow us to thrive. Different people in our lives serve to help us in different ways, that’s ok and allowable. More from Molly Link to full article: https://hbr.org/2021/01/the-secret-to-building-resilience Submit your Q&A here: https://bit.ly/thefoundpodcastquestions Book a discovery call here: https://bit.ly/30minuteswithmkm
"And so that's what I think about with resilience too, like, it's not this innate ability, it's a nurtured capacity. And that's something that I talk about a lot, is that, you know, it's not a matter of willpower, it's a matter of wellness...we're all resilient. We just need to nurture that capacity." - Whitney Sullivan
Resilience is defined as the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
As women, as business owners, as family members, as friends, as HUMANS, we have all had difficulties that we have had to recover from quickly. We've failed at tasks, missed deadlines, and had unexpected health issues pop up. We've dropped the ball, we've said the wrong thing, we've done the wrong thing, and we've had challenges put upon us by ourselves and others.
It's not a matter of if we'll need to be resilient in times where things don't go as planned, but a matter of when and how we will be expected to be resilient.
Resilience isn't easy, it isn't comfortable to cultivate, but it is important to become aware of so we can support ourselves and others through hardships.
In today's mini-episode of The Found Podcast, we talk about cultivating resilience in regards to this moment in time in the United States, and how we will all need to practice resilience in the days and weeks ahead. My friend and upcoming podcast guest, Whitney Sullivan who is an expert on resilience, shares her perspective on resilience and how to support ourselves in the process.
I’m not going to get long-winded here, friends. This is THE process I use with every new client here at MKM to ensure that all the marketing foundations are in place for every business I am in touch with: a marketing audit. In today's episode, you'll hear the steps I take to make sure all my clients' marketing is consistent and driving potential clients and customers in the right direction. We're auditing: 1. Your Social Media Footprint 2. Your Website 3. Your Physical Marketing Don’t forget: Share this podcast, leave a review and help your business besties with their marketing too! Bonus: get my marketing audit checklist in a handy-dandy printable PDF here: https://mkm.myflodesk.com/auditchecklist More from Molly: * Get the checklist: https://mkm.myflodesk.com/auditchecklist * Submit your Q&A here: https://bit.ly/thefoundpodcastquestions * Book a discovery call here: https://bit.ly/30minuteswithmkm
Guys, this interview is so much fun. Today I’m sitting down with a new friend, Madelyn Victoria a local marketing strategist in her small town in Alabama, to discuss all things marketing for local businesses. While we primarily focus on helping local businesses enhance their holiday marketing efforts this Q4 of 2024, Madelyn’s strategies and actionable tips are practices you can employ all year round to create visibility and sales for your business. A few quick tips from Madelyn that you’ll hear us break down in detail in the podcast: * “Marketing is all about knowing what your audience wants and giving that to them in the best way possible.” * Double down on growing community and collaborating with other businesses to maximize your marketing and get in front of new clients and customers. * Having limited-time products for the season is a great way to create a special feel for the holidays. For some businesses, like our friends in retail, this is part of your regular business strategy, but any business can tie in limited-time holiday opportunities. * “There’s a big lull [for retailers] in January and February, but what helps mitigate that is getting all peoples’ email addresses during the holiday time.” * Focus your efforts, choose 3 places to show up and spend your energy and your time on only those. This helps you reduce the pressure of feeling like you need to show in all the places at all the times.
Helpful links + Get Madelyn’s Visibility Guide here + Episode 108 of The Found Podcast: Holiday Marketing Strategy + MailerLite + Metricool + Notion + Canva + Full Focus Planner + HGTV Hometown Takeover Season 1 + Downtown Dickins Christmas event + Emily Henry Funny Story book + Unreasonable Hospitality book
More About Madelyn Madelyn Victoria helps small businesses create a marketing strategy to attract more clients and increase profit while making a local impact. With seven years of experience in the digital marketing industry, Madelyn uses her knowledge and experiences to help her coaching clients take their businesses to the next level. Connect with her at https://madelynvictoriaco.com/ or get her “3 Simple Strategies to Become More Visible, Get More Customers, and Increase Your Profit" guide at https://madelynvictoriaco.com/visibility
Quick, answer the following questions: 1. when was the last time you made an actual post on your socials? 2. when was the last time you shared a post that you cared about to your newsfeed? 3. when was the last time you doom scrolled? 4. when was the last time you saw anger and hatred in a meme or in someone’s comment section? 5. when was the last time you felt happy after being on social media?
A couple of months ago I was in a conversation with my friend and client, Lindsy, and we were both talking about how draining it felt to participate in social media. So I had a realization: if I want a better experience when I’m on social media, I have to take action and be part of the solution. This means doing more creating, purging the accounts and people that drain me, being active and interactive, and practicing Social Leadership. Let’s commit to listening to this episode and afterward, becoming social leaders, owning the power that we have over our algorithms and experiences online and using it for the good of us all. Quick Tips for Improving Your Social Media Experience: 1. You get more of what you click on. So stop clicking into click-baity, dumb shit. 2. Unfollow. Accounts, people, trends, platforms. Follow: what brings you joy. 3. Make something. Creating brings more joy than consuming. 4. Be a human. Engage, look for humanity, uplift, educate. 5. Implement time limits. Apps, bricks, lockboxes. 6. Think critically. 7. Connect. with others IRL and with yourself. Ask: why do these little digital boxes have such a hold on me?
Next: practice social leadership: * 30-day posting my favorite photos to make Facebook suck less initiative. Encourage others to join in. * Have productive conversations, and encourage connection offline. * Put your phones away when you’re in a gathering next time. * Critically ask yourself, how am I contributing to the dumpster fire I’m being served? This is especially important if you are using social to market your business. If you are annoyed/aggrieved and generally questioning your presence on socials, be sure your content you release on behalf of your business meets these standards too. * Give people something to care about, not something to scroll past. * Support my friend Nicole’s Hurricane Helene recovery Amazon wish list. I met her through social media, and I’m using social media to connect her cause with more people who can help.
Connect with Molly: * Submit your Q&A here and get your questions answered on an upcoming episode of the podcast: https://bit.ly/thefoundpodcastquestions * Book a discovery call here to see how Molly can help your business thrive through intentional, strategic marketing: https://bit.ly/30minuteswithmkm
You are shit. Your ideas are shit. Nobody is going to buy the shit you are trying to sell.... ....sound familiar???? Starting and growing a business is as much a personal journey as it is a professional one. If you are trying to found a business and have others find the products and services you offer, you will have to come face to face with some hard truths about yourself and that little voice inside your head. And the worst part of it all...no one is going to do this work for you. You need to lead yourself through this process. It's a shitty process, but in order to get the good shit, you need to come face to face with the shit you're carrying around. I promise you can do it. And this episode will help you get started. 7 hard truths you need to face in order to lead yourself to your next level: 1. “You are shit." 2. Your ideas are shit. 3. You have some really awesome shit you’re a little scared to share with others. 4. You have some shit to own. 5. You have some shit to let go of. 6. You have some shit to organize. 7. Your timing is shitty.
Connect with Molly
Find me and all my business life/personal life shenanigans at, @mollyknuth_mkm, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media for all the marketing tips and trends at @mollyknuthmedia on Facebook and Instagram.
Of course there are hard truths that make business ownership difficult and may complicate your life, but there are some other hard truths you must acknowledge too… Today, I’m here to share 7 additional hard truths I’ve learned about running a business in the 7+ years I’ve owned and operated Molly Knuth Media. If you didn’t listen to part 1, then click here to check out last week’s episode. Entrepreneurship and small business ownership is anything but easy, but I do believe that it is the way of the future. Because especially as women/moms/friends I think we need to know how our unique skills and talents can help us earn money and support our families. I want you to hear in this episode the silver linings of the hard side of business that I wish someone had shared with me when I started my small biz journey in 2017. 7 (More) Hard Truths You Need to Hear About Business 1: You’ll never want to work a set schedule again. 2: You’ll never want to work for anyone else again. 3: You’ll test your courage. 4: You are your own biggest limitation. 5: You will evolve and change. 6: You will be an inspiration to others. 7: You will be forced to celebrate yourself. Connect with Molly Find me and all my business life/personal life shenanigans at, @mollyknuth_mkm, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media for all the marketing tips and trends at @mollyknuthmedia on Facebook and Instagram.
This episode is for a specific listener, friend. It is specific to the female business owner out there who is wondering if working for herself is all that it’s cracked up to be. It’s the woman who is thinking about taking the leap from being a classroom teacher to going full-time in her side-hustle. It’s for the woman who is scared shitless right now because her dream isn’t working out just how she thought now that she’s 1 1/2 years into self-employment. It’s for the woman who has been building this company for 7 years and now she’s wondering if there’s something else her heart is calling her to (cue Reba McIntire “Is There Life Out There?”). It’s for the woman who is considering a leap of faith, and I want her to feel validated in her fears and also prepared for what will be expected of her in this next season of reaching. Today, I’m here to share 7 hard truths I’ve learned about running a business in the 7+ years I’ve owned and operated Molly Knuth Media. In today’s Instagrammable world of glamorizing the time freedom, financial opportunities, upward mobility that self-employment can bring, I want this episode to be a resource to talk about the less-than-glamorous side of working for yourself. Because while it is incredibly worthwhile and the way of the future (I firmly believe it), entrepreneurship and small business ownership is anything but easy. And I don’t want you to feel like you are “behind” in life or that someone has the secret to being a woman/mom/friend/business owner all figured out in some secret handbook that you never received. I want you to hear in this episode the hard side of business that I wish someone had shared with me, so I didn’t feel alone and ashamed at various points of my own small business journey. 10 Hard Truths You Need to Hear About Business 1. You need to work 2. Then, you need to work less 3. You will fuck up 4. You will lose people 5. No one owes you their money or their business 6. Not everyone is cut out for this 7. It’s ok to quit
Connect with Molly Find me and all my business life/personal life shenanigans at, @mollyknuth_mkm, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media for all the marketing tips and trends at @mollyknuthmedia on Facebook and Instagram.
It’s back to school, listener! Back to business school that is, as today we sit down with human resources coach and consultant and small business owner, Kristie McCarthy of Bridge Business Resources. You will definitely want to have a pen and paper ready as you listen through this episode and hear Kristie’s advice on protecting yourself and your team members from common struggles and errors that can occur when employing a team. With over 20 years of experience in HR, Kristie’s goal is to help you bridge the gaps that can happen in the people side of operating a small business. She understands that business owners can be exceptional in their craft and kick ass at making sales, marketing, etc. But when it comes to growing a team, we as business owners can have major blindspots in legal and tax requirements that come along with employment. Even with the best of intentions, there are pitfalls employers face when managing a team, and Kristie’s mission at Bridge is to help you identify and proactively plan for the human side of your business. In today’s episode, Kristie shares the 6 employer danger zones she commonly sees with her clients and how you can take action today to address these areas in your own business. Danger Zones to Watch Out For 1. Protected Classes of Employees 2. Classifying Employees as Independent Contractors or Payroll Employees 3. Payroll & Time Tracking 4. Employee Safety & Reporting 5. Terminating Employees 6. Protecting Your Business
More About Kristie and her business, Bridge Business Resources Whether you are a small business owner, trying to do it all yourself, or a leader in a larger organization trying to prepare for the next step, it is difficult to do it all. There are inevitably gaps...whether it is in communication, in what you can offer your employees, or in how prepared you are for the growth you hope to achieve. Bridge Business Resources is here to fill those gaps, take work off your plate, and allow you to spend time focused on what you do best. Bridge helps you with consulting, coaching, and done for you services including payroll processing, human resources activities, and more. Visit the Bridge Business Resources website or connect with Bridge on Facebook and LinkedIn to see how Kristie can help you thrive.
Well, we’re 170+ episodes and almost 4 years into this podcast journey, and this is the first time I’ve explicitly tackled this topic on the pod: growing and building a team as a small business owner. In the past 7 years of operating my marketing business at Molly Knuth Media, I’ve had a variety of team structures. I was originally a solo freelancer, then I had one person who helped on a mix of tasks as I needed them. Eventually I had a team of 7 people working various hours and skills in their own wheelhouses, and now I’m back to having a very lean team structure. What I’ve learned along the way is that there is no blueprint for growing a team. Damn it. It would be so much easier if there was. In today’s episode, we’re going to discuss the successes I’ve experienced in bringing others on board at my business Molly Knuth Media, the struggles I experienced in leading said team, and how you can know if you are ready to build a team in your own business. My Successes 1. Tackling larger projects 2. Seeing people grow in their skills and gifts 3. Growing myself as a leader
My Struggles 1. Growing myself as a leader 2. Making changes 3. Knowing what’s right
How do I know if I’m ready? 1. Get clear with yourself 2. Make sure your finances align 1. Check out this episode of Profitable Women from my friend and accountant, Sheila Hansen for more on this. 3. Get ready for friction
Get more from Molly Knuth Media Reach out at hello@mollyknuthmedia.com to discuss coaching and consulting options from Molly to help your service provider business growth and marketing in 2024.
Hello listener, and welcome back to another episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth. …and her kids! My name is Corinne Knuth And in today’s episode we’re having a special conversation with Molly, Corinne, and the other three Knuth children. I thought it would be fun to be on mom’s podcast and it would be a nice way for Mom and her listeners to learn about what it’s like as a child of someone who owns a business. Some of my favorite parts of our interview were when my little brother farted and when we all sat around and asked mom questions. After you listen to this episode, try and play a game with your family and spend some family time together. Key parts: * Set rules up front about who gets to talk when * What the kids been doing all summer * "What is the best part about mom working at home?" * "What's the hardest part about mom working from home?" * "Would it be better for mom to have a regular job?" * "What is mom's favorite part of being a work from home mom?" * "Why did mom start this business instead of being a teacher?" * "Why can't kids come in the office when mom is trying to work?" * "What is the hardest part of working with clients and kids?" * "My job is only as good as being able to deliver what my clients need."
Helpful Links
- Episode 88: Motherly Advice
- Episode 81: The Power of Community with Charlotte Knuth
Get more from Molly Knuth Media
Reach out at hello@mollyknuthmedia.com to discuss coaching and consulting options from Molly to help your service provider business growth and marketing in 2024.
We’ve made it. The dog days of summer. This time of year, we can have so many of these schedule interruptions or things that happen in life that pull us away from our businesses. Time compressed and condensed: we're outside more, we have more social gatherings, and life just happens at a quicker pace. With our guest today, Miss Aly Robbins, we're reminded of those foundational pieces of our business that we can put in place, especially for service providers. These six foundational components ensure our business is solid and can run the way we want it to, in order to provide exceptional client and customer experience for the people we serve. I love that her six-step process is a metaphor that is easy to picture and take action on. Just like doing what you can to make sure your plants can grow (whether you’re an indoor plant mama or you’re growing your gardens this summer), you need to provide essential elements for your business to grow: + leadership - sunlight + marketing - water + sales - nutrients + mindset - soil + offer - seeds + backend systems and processes - air temperature
Aly is engaging, insightful, resourceful, and I know you are going to connect with her and her message in today’s episode of The Found Podcast. Key Takeaways: * 8:26 - Aly’s multiple entrepreneurial ventures and what they’ve taught her to help her clients * 13:18 - The importance of money mindset * 18:56 - 6 essential components of growing a business * 21:30 - leadership (sunlight) * 28:07 - marketing (water) * 32:29 - sales (nutrients) * 35:59 - mindset (soil) * 42:10 - offer (seeds) * 43:53 - backend systems + processes (air temperature)
More About Aly Robins Aly Robins is a serial entrepreneur who helps people like you grow their business and reach their first $50k through 1:1 business coaching and group coaching. Like Aly, her clients are stepping into a new level of confidence and becoming more profitable small business professionals. Just a few years ago, Allie herself was struggling to land sales because she was brand new to the online world. She was full-time as a rangeland specialist and building her business on the side. But she was experiencing trials and tribulations trying to break through income levels that she knew were possible but were hard for her to attain. After investing in her business by hiring a marketing coach and working with several business coaches over time, Allie learned so much about not just marketing, but about the foundational components of building a sustainable business using her signature six-step process. Get more information on her process at alyrobins.com or follow her on Instagram at @alyrobins1. Helpful Links * Aly Robins Website * Aly on Instagram * Aly’s Podcast * Donald Miller Business Made Simple * Donald Miller Building a Story Brand * Carol Dweck Mindset * Chris Harder * Money Mindset Episode with Sheila Hansen * Molly’s Money Mindset & Finance Journey + Sheila Hansen’s Podcast + Gina Knox’s Podcast
Starting or growing a service provider business in 2024? Then you will NOT want to miss this episode, my friend.
In today's episode of The Found Podcast, I'm breaking down the phases of business evolution into three key parts:
Baby businesses - aka: those new businesses that are somewhere from 0 to 1-2 years in, getting the lay of the land, experiencing all that life has to offer, high highs and low lows.
Childhood businesses - aka: years 1-3 in business, really learning at a rapid rate and establishing yourself by the rules.
Teen businesses - aka: years 3 to 6, where you're feeling like you want to make a name for yourself, where you want to test the limits and test the boundaries, you're considering reinvention and breaking out of norms.
Bonus: Young adult business years - aka: years 6+, that I'm in the midst of myself!
For each of these phases of business, I'm going to point out three key components/actions I recommend to business owners in this phase. We're also going to talk about key marketing targets that I would focus on if I was in that phase of business so you can maximize your time, energy, and resources.
I'll be telling stories and giving examples throughout from my own experience thus far with Molly Knuth Media, all the highs, lows, and in-betweens.
I'm hoping that with your listening experience today, you'll be able to hear some of your own story, regardless of what phase of business you're in. And maybe you'll be able to take away some key moves you can make to facilitate your growth through that particular phase of business.
Get your notebooks ready and grab a pen, because today's episode of The Found Podcast is full of actionable, tactical tips for you!
Timestamps:
4:59 Baby Business Foundations + Marketing Tips
22:19 Childhood Business Foundations + Marketing Tips
34:10 Teenage Business Foundations + Marketing Tips
40:26 Young Adult Business Steps
Get more from Molly Knuth Media
Reach out at hello@mollyknuthmedia.com to discuss coaching and consulting options from Molly to help your service provider business growth and marketing in 2024.
In this episode format called “Coaching Calls,” a small business owner/entrepreneur is given an opportunity to submit a question they would like me to answer about marketing, business growth, personal development, or anything that’s on their mind! Today’s submission is from a fellow marketer in northeast Iowa, Alex Monaghan of MAK Marketing, who asked, “How do you keep up with the algorithm?” This is a layered question, but it’s one I think we all need a reminder of as we promote our products and services, specifically on social media. Key Takeaways: * “The Meta algorithms, so Facebook and Instagram, and those are really driven by engagement. And engagement on those platforms looks like a hierarchy of interactions.” * “A video engagement is considered a three-second view.” * “What might my ideal audience be looking for? What are the words they're going to use? What are some of the phrases that they might search? And we want to make sure that we include those in our titles and in our captions to help those algorithms serve our content more.” * “So I've learned over the years, there is…a very distinct difference between marketing for a product based business and marketing for a service based business.” * “My perspective has always been to just give, and the right people will find me.”
Time Stamps: 3:27 Meet Alex 7:04 “What is an algorithm?” 7:47 Meta algorithms 10:09 TikTok algorithm 11:24 YouTube & Pinterest algorithms 13:25 Timing the algorithms 23:03 How much is too much information to share? A little more about Alex and MAK Marketing Co MAK Marketing Co is a full-service marketing agency that helps rural, family-owned businesses bring their stories to life. MAK helps their clients anticipate market trends and consumer needs, ensuring that they are using marketing strategies that are relevant and effective in the long term. From creating logos and branding, graphics, and print designs, to email marketing, social media marketing, and the strategy that unites it all, MAK helps their clients innovatively grow and connect agriculture businesses to their clients, one story at a time. Connect with Alex and schedule a free consultation at https://www.makmarketingco.com/ or reach out to alex@makmarketingco.com. Be a Guest on a Future Coaching Call If you’d like to ask Molly your business or marketing question on a future episode of The Found Podcast, click the link below to enter your name and burning question: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchWWpkpdlzqnDJI0ocMcGgCXGkBk_8mIEFPKjLwkQ-W1oLYg/viewform
This one is for the ladies out there….myself included. Over the past few years, I have been on a health journey. In 2015, I found strength training and really loved how my brain and body responded to weight lifting (more on that in this episode from the Re-Find miniseries of the podcast). Then, in 2018, I dove into nutrition and started paying attention to macro rations, portion sizes, and caloric deficits with the help of my friend Coach Erika at Sweat Inspire Sisterhood (hear from her in one of the very first episodes of the podcast). But in the years since, with the Covid of it all, different seasons of business, and stressful life circumstances, I’ve found myself at my heaviest weight ever and carrying a LOT of it in my midsection. I’ve been pretty vulnerable sharing about this journey on my Instagram Stories, and thankfully through the magic of social media I was able to connect with Bri Edwards, owner and integrative nutrition health coach at Healthy Foundations Dubuque. Through her proven Mind Body Nutrition Method, Bri guides women to their healthiest and most vibrant selves. Because she believes you don't have to continue looking for the next right diet. You don't have to continue looking for the next right fitness plan. You don't need to push harder. You don't need to have greater self control. You just need to unlearn and relearn the truths about your body as a woman, nutrition and how you can utilize both to transform your life. In this episode with Bri, you’ll learn simple steps to set you up for success each day, ways to manage your stress levels through the foods you’re eating, and how to listen to your body in order to understand what you need most. This is an episode every woman needs to hear. Key Takeaways * 4:53 Meet Bri * 7:12 Bri’s Health Journey * 8:47 What Women Were Told about Their Bodies * 12:46 Phases of Women’s Cycles * 20:44 Stress and its Impact on Women’s Bodies: * 27:56 Stress and Weight Loss * 31:10 Nutrition and Stress * 35:40 Setting Yourself Up for Success
Helpful Resources * Book a Clarity Session with Bri * Healthy Foundations Dubuque website * Healthy Foundations YouTube Channel * Flo Cycle Tracking App * Do Less by Kate Northrup * Episode 137 The Found Podcast with Guest Jada Dobesh
In this episode…chaos ensues. Wardrobe malfunctions, losing my train of thought, jumping from topic-to-topic, this episode and all that happens within is very fluid and unscripted: much like my business and motherhood journey. I’m not exaggerating when I saw that within the first five minutes of this episode, you’ll hear the most embarrassing mishap of my podcasting journey so far…and we’re over 160 episodes in! As we open the month of June here at The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth, we are breaking down what I’ve learned in my 7+ years of business, and how my experience as a woman has largely affected the way I show up as a leader and entrepreneur. Key Takeaways * 10:05 The boobs of it all: minimizing myself, my talents, and my gifts and playing small, much like the pre-pubescent me who wanted to minimize certain “aspects” of myself. * 20:40 The bullshit of it all: the structures we still ascribe to in 2024 that were put in place in the patriarchal 1940s and 1950s. From overtly misaligned gender norms to even subtle aspects of our work expectations, women have to handle a lot of extra bullshit as they are building their businesses. * 34:20 The burnout of it all: ladies, we simply try to handle SO much. Trying to be strong all the time, trying to feel and look like we've got our shit together, and knowing that it doesn't feel as good on the inside as we sometimes see on the outside can come at a cost. Without properly practicing self-awareness and putting supports in place, we can teeter into the land of burnout when we try to tackle too much on our personal and professional journeys. * 14:27 “A lot of what I've been learning in recent years about the choices we make as adults is rooted and grounded in some of the experiences and thoughts that we had as children.” * 18:18 “I knew for sure that the people that I saw running businesses or thought of as these, like, great business minds, whether locally or on the internet, they didn't look like me. They didn't look like a mom who was in her sweatpants and a hat. in her office with three kids coloring on the floor behind her.” * 20:40 “What I'm talking about here is the natural way that our bodies work, the hormones and how women operate on a monthly cycle. I'm talking about how we have emotions and feelings and those should not be separate from business. Business is personal.”
Helpful Resources * Episode 137: “Wholly Herself with Jada Dobesh” * Our guest next week, Bri Edwards, teaches women all about hormone health and nutrition * Episode 7: “What I Learned from Being a Waitress”
Much like Chik-Fil-A, this week’s episode was a pleasure! Sincerely. Today on the podcast, we welcome not one, but two guests: Jan + Erin Johnson of Trailblazher Co. They're a mother daughter duo of multi-passionate women who have developed the grit, resilience, and gutsiness that comes from the ups and downs of being entrepreneurs over the past 24 years in business - together! As you’ll hear them share in today’s episode, Jan + Erin’s skillsets complement one another so well, and together they love to create and bring new ideas to life. While they love working alongside one another, their true joy comes from sharing stories of rural women across North America. Through their work at Trailblazher Co, they not only publish a gorgeous quarterly magazine, host a weekly podcast and connect rural women, but they're inspiring women along the way. As you'll hear in today's episode, we cover a lot of ground, but the common thread is all about telling our stories as women. And how the peaks, the pits and everything in between can help the next generation of women who want to live rural and who want to grow rural businesses. This conversation is incredible, and I think you, like me will laugh, tear up, and feel so much joy and gratitude from the lessons Jan + Erin teach us in today’s episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth. Key Takeaways * “We are storytellers” * “We use the word trailblazher because [the women we feature] have that grit and resilience and risk taking and bravery, and we're astounded, honestly, every week with the women that we talked to and what they're creating in their life and all the things that they have going on. And despite all of that, they're so determined to bring their biggest dreams to life.” * “It hasn't been a linear path. It's been messy at times. It's been on our knees like, Oh my gosh, what are we going to do next? But that thread that connects us is this purpose. and drive to make an impact in women's lives. And where does that come from? I'm not really sure. Maybe it is to grow ourselves into the biggest and best version of who we are.” * “No path is linear. No, it just, it just isn't. And that's what makes for great stories, right?” * “You have to go through some personal growth, some, sometimes some dark valleys, sometimes you're at the height of the mountaintop, but it's in that, that you find yourself, you get even more grounded into your purpose. And then you've got these great stories to share with others.” * “How many other women have wares or goods like fresh produce that they want to sell and they need help with getting it out there? And so we actually started with, it was called at the time, The Rural Collective, and it was a directory to help rural women list their businesses so that we could find each other and have women in the cities find them rurally.” * “Stretch out. Reach out to people who are ahead of you, who could mentor you, help you, advise you, consult with you.” * “Every story of every person who you know, they have these same stories of times they tried things. They were gutsy, and they took a chance and they made it took a risk…maybe didn't work, but it gave them the knowledge to try something else or to pivot just slightly into the thing that made it work.” * “Inspiration is at the root of creativity, inspiration, joy.”
More about Jan & Erin Jan is the connector on the Trailblazher Co team. Her jam is content writing and ideas. Whether writing feature stories for Trailblazher magazine, web content or upcoming course materials, Jan is gifted with a pen! She is naturally skilled at connecting ideas in ways that influence the direction of the company. Jan is also a gifted people person and insightful communicator striving always to acknowledge and draw out the unique and highlight what makes people special (shaped by her 30 years as a lifeskills coach). Jan is fueled by exploring what is possible and bridging ideas into tangible, relevant offerings that set the business apart in this ever-changing economy. Erin is the innovator on the team. Her passion lies in digital and print design and marketing. And showing the behind-the-scenes on social. She can be found spending most of her time at the keyboard creating a new company website, designing the next issue of Trailblazher magazine or brand graphics for Trailblazher Co. Erin brings the synergy to the team with her team spirit and ambitious goal markers for the next growth stage of the company. Apart from her role in the company, she juggles being a work-from-home mom, and caring for 80+ chickens and ducks, some days she manages better than others. Erin thrives on possibility, on pushing the envelope and creating something that’s never been done before. Together, with their tools and programs at Trailblazher Co, they want to help women explore the parts of themselves that are gutsy and resilient… the parts of that have been shaped by life experiences... the parts of that help women to live their life on purpose. If you want to take their quiz to find out what kind of Trailblazher you are, take their quiz here. Resource * The Website: https://trailblazherco.com/ * Rural Directory and Content Submission Form:
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https://trailblazherco.com/rural-women
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The Trailblazher Podcast
- Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-trailblazher-podcast/id1708329540
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Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6poMDcdSDSM37ORka4CiMi
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The Trailblazher Co Magazine: https://shop.trailblazherco.com/
This might be the most actionable, helpful episode of The Found Podcast I’ve ever released. Not kidding. In today’s episode, we dive in to the three things I wish all small business owners knew about marketing in order to get people to take action. And I don’t tell you to adopt any short-term trends or spend a bajillion dollars to do it. Nope, we focus on three key components: 1. People do business with people 2. You choose the trends, don’t let the trends choose you 3. Everyone has a story to tell
In each of these components we drill down further to help you create a marketing strategy that fits you, your audience, and your business, and we use examples to help you take action just in time for summer. This episode also comes with plenty of resources, so be sure to tap the links below to access my 100 Story Starters downloadable tool and the slide deck that accompanies this information. And if you want the help of a strategic marketing expert to walk through this process on behalf of your business, reach out at molly@mollyknuthmedia.com to discuss a 1:1 Strategy Session to give you a clear plan for your 2024 marketing. Timestamps 2:27: 3 takeaways I want you to have from the episode 3:25 Meet the host, Molly Knuth 8:45 How my eyes opened to social media marketing as a teacher 11:55 People do business with people 14:15 How to approach your marketing in the summer months 16:59 Attract - the first phase of the marketing flywheel 19:13 Nurture - the second phase of the marketing flywheel 21:25 Serve - the third phase of the marketing flywheel 24:45 Choosing your marketing avenues for each part of the flywheel 27:34 Concrete examples of businesses using a marketing flywheel 37:39 Everyone has a story to tell and formatting your marketing content for your audience 38:32 Set a goal 38:44 Develop your serve marketing assets first 39:34 Developing your nuture sequence 39:56 Developing your attract assets using the SEEN model Links * 100 Story Starter Download * SEEN Slideshow * Amanda Hofman episode about merch * Strategy Session Discovery Call link
If you are a new business owner or if you are still reaching for that first $50,000 in revenue for your business, this mini-episode with my friend Aly Robins is just what you've been looking for.
In just 7 minutes, Aly shares:
- the common mistakes she sees brand new service-based business owners making that is preventing them from finding clients and making money
- strategies for gaining momentum in your business and bringing in leads
- what you'll get from her new FREE masterclass 5 Steps to Your First $50k happening on May 1, 2024. Register for the masterclass with Aly here.
Learn more about Aly and the services she provides at https://www.alyrobins.com/ or follow her on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/alyrobins1
Have you ever wished you could just ask an expert, “How the heck do I do this…in simple terms?” That’s exactly what I thought as I was planning out 2024 content for The Found Podcast: Why not give entrepreneurs and small business owners an opportunity to ask real questions in real time and get real answers that matter to them? In this episode format called “Coaching Calls,” a small business owner/entrepreneur is given an opportunity to submit a question they would like me to answer about marketing, business growth, personal development, or anything that’s on their mind! Today’s submission is from one of my former coaching clients and friend, Natalie Berning of Berning Acres, who asked, “Should I add Pinterest to my business marketing strategy?” This is a layered question, but it’s one I think we all of us should ask from time to time as we develop our marketing strategy and assess its return on investment. Benefits of Incorporating Pinterest in your Small Business’ Marketing Strategy Now, my friend this is a very layered question, and as I go into with Natalie, it's not as simple as just starting an account and saying “Hey, let’s Pin!” I highly recommend that anytime you add a platform to your marketing toolkit you make sure A: that it is aligned with your ideal audience B: that you have the time to dedicate to the learning and the growth it's going to take to get started on the platform C: that you develop a long-term and short-term plan for how this new platform will serve your business D: especially with Pinterest, begin with the end in mind and map out your customer’s acquisition journey That being said, there are lots of reasons a small business could benefit from the addition of Pinterest to their marketing strategy: Visual Discovery: Pinterest is a highly visual platform where users discover ideas, products, and inspiration through images and videos. Small businesses can leverage this visual aspect to showcase their products or services in a visually appealing way, making them more discoverable to potential customers. High Intent Audience: Pinterest users often have high purchase intent, with many actively seeking ideas and inspiration for future purchases. By creating engaging and relevant content, small businesses can connect with users who are actively looking for products or services like theirs, driving traffic and sales. Longevity of Pins: Unlike other social media platforms where content may have a short lifespan, pins on Pinterest can have a long shelf life and continue to drive traffic and engagement over time. This means that small businesses can benefit from ongoing exposure and visibility for their content, even months or years after it's been pinned. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Benefits: Pinterest acts as a visual search engine, allowing users to discover content based on keywords and interests. By optimizing pins with relevant keywords and descriptions, small businesses can improve their visibility in Pinterest search results and drive organic traffic to their website. Referral Traffic: Pinterest is a powerful driver of referral traffic, with users frequently clicking through pins to visit external websites. Small businesses can use Pinterest to drive traffic to their website, blog, or online store, increasing brand exposure and potential conversions. Targeted Advertising Options: Pinterest offers robust advertising options, including Promoted Pins and Pinterest Ads, which allow small businesses to target specific audiences based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. This targeted approach can help small businesses reach their ideal customers and drive meaningful results. Steps for Starting out on Pinterest Pinterest isn’t just another social media platform—it's a powerful tool for driving traffic, increasing brand visibility, and connecting with potential customers. If you’re ready to harness the potential of Pinterest for your business, here are five essential steps to get started: Create a Business Account: The first step to launching your Pinterest marketing strategy is to create a business account. This will give you access to valuable analytics and advertising features that can help you track your progress and reach your goals. Optimize Your Profile: Take the time to update and edit your account's bio section, profile picture, and helpful links. Use this space to showcase your brand personality, share important information about your business, and drive traffic to your website or other online properties. Create Relevant Boards: Next, create boards that align with your content pillars and target audience interests. Use simple, SEO-friendly titles for your boards to help your content get found in Pinterest search results. Organize your boards strategically to make it easy for users to find the content they’re looking for. Curate and Repurpose Content: Don’t limit yourself to sharing only your own content on Pinterest. Curate and repurpose high-quality content from other creators that is relevant to your audience and aligns with your brand. Share these pins on your boards to provide value to your followers and keep your feed fresh and engaging. Create Fresh Pins: Finally, create your own fresh pins that direct people to your website, sales pages, and email opt-in forms. Use eye-catching visuals, compelling copy, and clear calls to action to encourage clicks and engagement. Experiment with different pin formats, designs, and messaging to see what resonates best with your audience. By following these five steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful Pinterest marketing strategy that drives traffic, increases brand awareness, and helps you achieve your business goals. Helpful Resources for Pinterest Marketing For more information about Pinterest best practices for your business, visit the following links: * Jenna Kutcher The Pinterest Lab course * Jenna Kutcher The Goal Digger Podcast episode * Nicole Saunders episode of The Found Podcast
A little more about Natalie and Berning Acres Berning Acres is a second generation family-owned dairy farm located in Menominee, Illinois (halfway between East Dubuque & Galena). There, the Berning family milks 400 cows, 3 times each day, 365 days a year. Their herd consists of mostly Holsteins (the black and white ones!) and in addition, they run about 850 acres of crop ground. The Bernings have always loved inviting people to come check out the farm and experience what farming looks like in the 21st century. So it wasn’t long before they had the idea to add education and agri-tourism to their operation. Throughout the year, the Bernings host a variety of events, tours, and camps to bring people to the farm and learn about what it takes to make the food we see on the shelves in our local grocery stores. From their kid-friendly Farm Camps and day camps to the adults-only Night at the Farm events perfect for date night, their events sell quickly and get rave reviews from visitors in the Galena, Illinois, area. Their hope is that you’ll leave with some great knowledge about agriculture, farm animals and farm life (and a deeper appreciation for that wholesome nutritious glass of milk you enjoy each day!) For more information about Berning Acres and to schedule your farm experience, visit https://berningacres.com/ Be a Guest on a Future Coaching Call If you’d like to ask Molly your business or marketing question on a future episode of The Found Podcast, click the link below to enter your name and burning question: https://forms.gle/BDjRPRWfmuFeHQZ89
When I started thinking about who to have in as a guest expert on the topics of systems and workflows, I knew exactly who my dream interview would be, so I shot my shot and sent an Instagram DM to Holly Haynes….yes. THE Holly Haynes. Holly helps female entrepreneurs create simple, scaleable offers and systems to grow to multi-6 figures without relying on the social algorithm. One of the things I love most about my time with Holly is her authenticity and her willingness to talk about all things business, including: + her history in the corporate world and making the transition to side hustler and ultimately CEO + getting connected with your community and using their questions and data to help you build a unique framework and business model that is true to your business + strategies for scheduling your day and week + her favorite tools for getting your time back as a business owner + having her Instagram account taken down when she had over 16,000 followers + how to “ditch the social drama” and incorporate marketing methods that don’t rely on an algorithm
This conversation with Holly is so much fun. You're going to learn incredible amounts of information (as I did!), and I think you're also going to fall in love with Holly along the way. Key Takeaways * “I feel like on paper, it looks like we went from like zero to a hundred really fast, but I always share: it's almost like you have these little nudges along the way, and you like take a step and then you pivot, and then you take a step and you pivot.” * “It's all been based on what people are asking, but also, how can we serve based on where people are at.” * “I had enough corporate experience where I could just step away for a year. If it like all went downhill, then I could just like go back in the workforce.” * “I always say, if you can control your schedule, you control everything, right? It's all about time and where you're spending your time.” * “I'm just constantly trying to create this white space because that's where the creativity comes from.” * “Consistency trumps talent….so if you could pick the thing that you can be consistent about and then add it into your schedule where it doesn't feel like work, or if it does feel like work, it's for an hour, and then you're like moving on, you're going to see much better results.” * “We use social as, I like to call it like a magazine: it's like the sidecar to the main act. So the main act for us is podcasting and email.” * “Your home base is usually your email or some sort of nurture sequence or something. Most people get really overwhelmed by setting this up. What I tell them is just pause everything else because this is going to help you so much. When you're on podcast, what do you share? You share this. When you're networking, what do you share? You share this. When you're talking in emails or things like that, this is the thing that's going to do the work for you.” * “What if my goal was to help a hundred families change their schedule this year, right? Or a hundred families build their dream business? How would that feel as opposed to: I need 10 more clients, right? It just feels different.” * “You can run your business however you want to.”
Helpful Links to Items Mentioned in the Episode * Jeni’s Ice Cream * Metricool * ClickUp * Planner * ManyChat * ChatGPT * Video Ask
More About Holly Holly helps female entrepreneurs create simple, scaleable offers and systems to grow to multi-6 figures without relying on the social algorithm. An industry expert and featured Thrive and Entrepreneur.com author with a 20-year business consulting background with Fortune 500 companies, Holly built her now 7- figure business while working full-time, retiring herself and her husband. Holly now runs her strategic coaching business, the Crush the Rush Planner company, and hosts the top 100 Crush the Rush podcast while raising her twin daughters with her husband in Columbus, Ohio. Holly’s FREE CEO Week Challenge: https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/ceoweek Listen to Holly on the Crush the Rush podcast: https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/podcast
Time to get tactical, my friends. I love talking about energy and mindset and confidence and habits as much as the next person, but there are seasons for that and there are seasons to work and put your money where your mouth is. April is about taking action here at MKM. It’s all about setting up the tools, systems, and workflows that will help you run your small business better, and today I’m starting with introducing you to my 10 Favorite Tech Tools that I rely on day-in and day-out in my business. Disclaimer: These aren’t the fanciest, sexiest tools. They aren’t going to automate your processes and take you from A→Z in 24 hours, but they are the tried and true tools I’ve integrated over the course of my seven years in business here at MKM. As I share my favorite tools of 2024, I also share tools that offer similar functions and features that may be better suited for those who are at an earlier stage of business or prefer a different user experience. Let’s dive in with my 10 Favorite Tech Tools for small business owners. Slack 1. What is it: Slack is a popular cloud-based collaboration tool designed to facilitate communication and teamwork within organizations. It offers a wide range of features, including real-time messaging, file sharing, project management, and integration with other productivity tools. Overall, Slack is widely used by teams and organizations of all sizes to improve communication, collaboration, and productivity in the workplace. 2. How I use it: Communicating with MKM team members. We love the “Channels” feature that allows us categorize our conversations and file sharing by client. No more losing conversations in long email threads. Everything is easy to find and search and in one place. We operate on the free version of the platform, as it had all the capabilities and functions we needed as a super small team. 3. Heads up: Set up rules, expectations, and boundaries to keep everything on-track and above-board. 4. Link to Slack: https://slack.com/
ClickUp 1. What is it: ClickUp is used by teams and organizations across various industries to increase efficiency, collaboration, and transparency in their work processes. ClickUp is a cloud-based productivity platform designed to help teams and individuals organize and manage their work. It offers a wide range of features and tools to streamline task management, project collaboration, goal tracking, and more. 2. How I use it: Tracking projects, assigning certain team members to projects, assigning and monitoring due dates, time tracking, and project management. There is So. Much. More. you can do with Clickup, and I know I’m merely scratching the surface of its functionality. 3. Heads up: Other apps like Asana and Trello are also helpful for project management. 4. Link to ClickUp: https://clickup.com/
Dubsado 1. What is it: Dubsado is designed to help small businesses and freelancers streamline their operations, improve client management, and enhance productivity. It provides a comprehensive set of tools to support various aspects of running a business, from client acquisition to project delivery and beyond. 2. How I use it: I use Dubsado for preparing, sending and signing client contracts; sending and receiving client questionnaires; scheduling; automated emails; and I used to use it for invoicing and billing. 3. Heads up: Other CRMs like Honeybook, Hubspot, Pipedrive, and Salesforce are also helpful for Customer Relationship Management. 4. Link to Dubsado (and get 20% off your first month or your first year!): dubsado.com/?c=mkm20
Flodesk 1. What is it: Flodesk is an email marketing platform designed to help businesses and creators create visually stunning email campaigns easily. It offers a range of features and templates to assist users in designing and sending emails that are visually appealing and engaging. Flodesk is known for its simplicity, ease of use, and visually appealing email designs, making it a popular choice for small businesses, bloggers, and creators looking to enhance their email marketing efforts. 2. How I use it: I use Flodesk for everything: sending newsletters, sending client emails, creating landing pages, creating sales pages, checkouts for programs, segmenting my audience, and in general, keeping in touch with my clients somewhere off of social media. 3. Heads up: Other email marketing platforms include Mailchimp, Constant Contact, ConvertKit, and ActiveCampaign 4. Link to Flodesk (and save 50% on your first year!): https://flodesk.com/c/MOLLYKNUTHMEDIA
MetaBusiness Suite 1. What is it: MetaBusiness Suite is a suite of business tools offered by Meta Platforms, formerly known as Facebook. These tools are designed to help businesses manage their presence and advertising on Facebook, Instagram, Messenger, and other platforms owned by Meta. 2. How I use it: Measuring/monitoring my Facebook and Instagram insights and scheduling posts for myself and my clients. 3. Heads up: Other social media schedulers include Hootsuite, Metricool, Buffer, Later, and Planoly 4. Link to Meta Business Suite: https://www.facebook.com/business/tools/meta-business-suite?content_id=ioLzWr9kXf4GlaQ&ref=sem_smb&utm_term=meta%20business%20suite&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIrruu_seShQMVCktHAR1q-w6VEAAYASAAEgIEafD_BwE&gad_source=1
Quickbooks 1. What is it: QuickBooks is accounting software developed and marketed by Intuit. It's designed primarily for small and medium-sized businesses to help them manage their finances more efficiently. QuickBooks offers a range of features to help users track income and expenses, manage invoices and payments, track sales and sales tax, generate financial reports, and more. 2. How I use it: My favorite is for sending sales receipts and processing payments. I also use it for bookkeeping, running reports, and sending off-cycle invoices. 3. Heads up: I’ve heard great things about Wave and FreshBooks too! 4. Link to Quickbooks: https://quickbooks.intuit.com/
Google Drive 1. What is it: Google Drive is a cloud storage and file-sharing service developed by Google. It allows users to store files, documents, photos, and other data in the cloud, making them accessible from any device with an internet connection. 2. How I use it: I love to use it to create folders for each client and drop in relevant resources to share with them: spreadsheets, documents, videos, photos, etc. I also love Google Forms for creating shareable forms. 3. Heads up: Dropbox is great too! 4. Link to Google Drive: https://www.google.com/drive/
Libsyn 1. What is it: Libsyn, short for Liberated Syndication, is a podcast hosting service and distribution platform. It provides podcasters with the tools and infrastructure needed to host, publish, distribute, and monetize their podcasts. 2. How I use it: I host The Found Podcast on Libsyn. I upload the episode once, and Libysn takes care of distributing it to all the podcasting platforms. I also can access analytics for my show and monetize/add advertising if I wish, all through the Libsyn platform. 3. Heads up: Podbean, Anchor, and Captivate are other podcast hosting platforms that offer a range of features and pricing. 4. Link to Libsyn: https://libsyn.com/
ChatGPT 1. What is it: ChatGPT is a conversational AI model developed by OpenAI. ChatGPT is designed to generate human-like responses to text prompts, allowing for natural and engaging conversations with users. ChatGPT can understand and generate text in multiple languages and can be fine-tuned for specific tasks or domains. It has a wide range of applications, including chatbots, virtual assistants, customer support, content generation, and more. 2. How I use it: Writing these show notes - lol! Not kidding! Getting ideas started, writing captions and blogs, generating SEO-friendly titles, and more. 3. Heads up: business owners of any size can incorporate AI models from customer service to marketing to project management and more. Many of the tools identified earlier in this document have AI-powered features that help you streamline and automate the digital aspects of your business. 4. Link to ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/auth/login
Canva 1. What is it: Canva is a versatile and user-friendly tool that caters to a wide range of design needs, from personal projects to professional marketing materials. Create a wide range of visual content, including presentations, social media graphics, posters, flyers, infographics, and more. It offers a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface and a vast library of customizable templates, graphics, photos, and fonts. 2. How I use it: Literally everything. Social media graphics, presentation slides, Christmas cards, business cards, flyers, brochures, postcards, videos, GIFs, QR codes, and more. 3. Heads up: Adobe’s suite of products, including Adobe Spark also offer a variety of design tool for small business owenrs 4. Link to Canva: https://www.canva.com/
Honorable Mentions * ManyChat * Laurel Denise Planner (check out my episode with founder, Laurel Smith here!) * My favorite pen * My favorite legal pads * Curiosity * Tenacity * Grit * Determination
Get in the MKM Book Club In April, MKM is hosting a free resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners who desire community and personal/professional development each month with our MKM Book Club. Our April selection, continuing this focus on systems and workflows, is Do Less by Kate Northrup. Do Less is a book for working women and mothers who are ready to release the culturally inherited belief that their worth is equal to their productivity, and instead create a personal and professional life that's based on presence, meaning, and joy. As opposed to focusing on "fitting it all in", time management, and leaning in, as so many books geared at ambitious women do, this book embraces the notion that through doing less women can have - and be - more. To join the MKM Book Club visit mkm.myflodesk.com/mkmaprilbookclub
Today’s submission is from an Iowa friend who asked, “How can I create more compelling social media content that converts into sales?” This is a layered question, but it’s one I think we all of us should ask from time to time as we develop our marketing strategy and assess its return on investment. Tips for making your social media content stand out for product-based businesses * Use multiple images on posts: when viewers see that there are more photos available than they can see from the preview, curiosity takes over and they click through all the images in the post. Each image is logged as one engagement by the social media platforms, and every engagement tells that algorithm that your post is something more people want to see. More clicks = more engagement = more reach. * Prioritize candid, real-life images, not just the pretty, curated ones: yes, we live in a world of FaceTune and Photoshop, but what really compels viewers to stop their scroll is something relatable. Think photos that are a little imperfect, backgrounds they recognize from their own community, vignettes that they could picture in their own homes. * Incorporate Video: Using video to share new product arrivals, whether in a post, Reel, or Story, will help your viewers get the full effect. Don’t feel pressured to do trendy dance moves or spend hours editing and clipping your videos. Just prioritize being helpful and informative as you display your newest items in your shop via video. * Listen to today's episode for even more tips!
A little more about our guest today… Kimberly Kollasch is the founder and owner of 400 RS Home & Design in Whittemore, Iowa. She is passionate about making homes beautiful and cozy, so through her storefront (both a brick-and-mortar shopping experience and an online store) Kimberly offers seasonal decor and giftables. Not only does she offer brand-new items, but she also has a talent for breathing new life into vintage furniture so it looks modern and perfectly at home in 2024. Learn more about 400 RS Home & Design To find out more about Kimberly and what her business offers, visit https://400-rs-home-design.myshopify.com/ or give them a follow over on Instagram or Facebook If you want to be a guest on an upcoming coaching call Click here to submit your question for Molly: https://forms.gle/LfZzFZgWiDwwehZD7
Amanda Hofman of Go To Market Studio is the “go-to” for creating anti-boring custom merch for your business that will turn heads and keep you top of mind for your ideal clients and customers. Amanda is a wife, human mom of 2, dog mom, and co-founder of Go To Market, her second company in her entrepreneurial career. She and her company create custom-branded merchandise for businesses, authors, podcasters, and more. They’re flipping the branded merchandise industry on its head by challenging the age-old practice of sticking the company’s logo in the middle of whatever product they are handing out, be it tee shirts, hats, pens, lunch boxes, tumblers, etc. Instead, Amanda and her design team dig into their client’s mission, vision, and branding to create designs that represent their values. As a result, they create swag that clients and customers are willing and excited to rep! The other part of the Go To Market model that is revolutionizing the industry hinges on sustainability and inclusion. All their client’s online merch shops are print-on-demand, meaning companies don’t have to order and store massive quantities of coffee cups, pre-sized tee shirts, and the like. Clients and customers can place their orders online and get the size, shape, color, style that they want. This leads to less waste and more intentional and valued usage of the products. Key Takeaways from Today’s Episode * “You gotta walk through the suck to get through to the other side.” * “We expect things to be custom and meaningful and interesting and targeted.” * “We’re focusing on teaching companies…how to make items that really reflect their values. So we’re not printing their logo front and center, we’re printing something that’s meaningful to the business. We’re trying to harness the thing that makes a business, an author, a podcaster special.” * “The other part we’re doing is the sustainability piece where everything prints on-demand…everything prints as it’s ordered, so that people get what they want in the size, shape, color, style that they want it.” * “It’s really about connection…People aren’t connected to your logo, they’re connected to ideas. They’re connected to the way that you make them feel.” * “So many business owners want branded merch because they love their brand.” * “There are risks that we’re willing to take and not.” * “That I feel like we just have to acknowledge it…Entrepreneurship, a variable income is very challenging if you’re raising a family. A variable income is challenging, period. And then if you’re raising a family, like, I can’t imagine that level of stress.” * “I’m not a failure. I tried something, and it didn’t work out.” * “When a company is giving a gift where there isn’t choice, even if it’s thoughtful, even if it’s beautiful to you, you’re still giving a burden to people at some level.”
Go to Market with Amanda Check out all that Amanda and Go To Market Studio has to offer on their website or connect with her over on LinkedIn for all the updates in her upcoming adventures. Helpful Links Mentioned in the Episode Website: https://gotomarket.studio/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/gotomarketstudio/ Amanda LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandagoldfinehofman/ Failure Pod Episode: https://mollyknuthmedia.com/2023/09/05/perspectives-from-a-failing-business-owner/ Break an Egg group: https://break-an-egg.ck.page/products/break-an-egg Work Clean Book: https://a.co/d/gvJ03FP
Risk is inherent in life. Every damn day. Whether you decide to stay the same or make a change. Like following the speed limit, or going 5 over…or tinting your driver’s windows and getting pulled over by the same state trooper twice now. Like staying at the same 5 pound weights you’ve been using for 8 weeks, or going up to 8 pounders for this next strength session. Like swiping right or swiping left. Staying at your job with a steady paycheck or going all-in on your business. Each choice above comes with a risk whether you decide to “play it safe” or “take a chance.” The risk of following the speed limit may be arriving late to your meeting, while going 5 over could get you a ticket. The risk of using 5 pounders is not seeing the muscle tone as quickly as you’d like, but going up to 8s means you might be sore tomorrow. Swiping right might mean…actually I don’t know the difference between swiping right or swiping left, but you get the picture. There isn’t necessarily a “right” or a “wrong” choice in any of the scenarios above, but one presents a bigger perceived risk than the other. Taking risk is inherent in life. We can choose to stay the path and follow the course we started down, or we can change along the way. Change is a risk. It’s uncomfortable, and it’s meant to be. Because part of taking risk is knowing and exploring and pushing what our upper limits are and finding ourselves at the edges of what is possible. Key Takeaways from the Podcast: * “Risk is inherent.” * “March is the season of spring, a sense of renewal, a sense of rebirth, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that anytime in my life when I’ve considered taking a risk or making a change...a lot of it does connect with this season of spring, this month of March.” * “I really was just testing my upper limits, seeing what is possible...I never would have known what my limits were had I not tried this other path.” * “Over time by increasing resistance, I increased my threshold of risk, I increased my thermostat of taking chances, and i was proving to myself...what I was capable of.” * “And it’s through some of those “small risks” that we take, that we really do prove to ourselves who we are.” * “Part of taking risk is knowing and exploring and pushing what our upper limits are.”
Helpful Links: * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood: Virtual + NEW in-person women’s fitness and nutrition community * The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
Get in the MKM Book Club In March, MKM is hosting our third month of the MKM Book Club for entrepreneurs and small business owners who desire community and personal/professional development each month. Our first selection is The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks. In The Big Leap, New York Times bestselling author Gay Hendricks reveals a simple yet comprehensive program for overcoming our one barrier to happiness and fulfillment, providing a clear path for achieving our true potential and attaining not only financial success but also success in love and life. To join the MKM Book Club visit mkm.myflodesk.com/marchmkmbookclub
Have you ever wished you could just ask an expert, “How the heck do I do this…in simple terms?” That’s exactly what I thought as I was planning out 2024 content for The Found Podcast: Why not give entrepreneurs and small business owners an opportunity to ask real questions in real time and get real answers that matter to them? In this new episode format called “Coaching Calls,” a small business owner/entrepreneurs is given an opportunity to submit a question they would like me to answer about marketing, business growth, personal development, or anything that’s on their mind! Today’s submission is from an Iowa friend who asked, “How do you organize and execute your content creation to support your audience and marketing?” This is a layered question, but it’s one I think we all should consider this year more than ever in our business marketing. Strategy is the name of the game in small business marketing in 2024 We are not throwing spaghetti at the wall, friends. We are running a business. And running a business is most enjoyable, profitable, and impactful when we have a clear plan of serving our clients and customers. This translates to our marketing too! We want to make sure that all forms of our business’ marketing, whether print materials, social media, on our website, or in face-to-face conversation, is cohesive, clear, and compelling for our ideal clients/customers. As business owners, we don’t have time to waste spending hours creating marketing materials and digital content that feels disjointed and confusing, we want to be able to follow a strategic plan that guides our audience so they know about us, understand how we help them, experience a bit of what it’s like to work with us, and ultimately choose to become our clients and customers. How do we do this? Start by answering the following: * what are your goals? * who is your ideal client/customer? how do they spend their time? what do they love? what do they not love? * how do you talk to your ideal client/customer?
Then move into mapping out what to talk about and what you want to sell on a paper calendar. Jot down important dates and events for the month, assign a theme to the month, and identify various tips, products, or services that tie into that theme so your ideal clients how you help them solve their problems. In today’s episode, I provide a variety of examples for planning a social media marketing calendar for both product and service-based businesses so you can have strategy guiding your content creation. A little more about our guest today… Maryann Baldwin is the founder and owner of The Works in Lansing, Iowa. She is passionate about helping entrepreneurs, small business owners and dreamers go after and achieve their goals. Through her business’ Office Works, Kitchen Works, and Innovation Works, Maryann helps local dreamers and doers launch, grow, and remain competitive in the business market. Learn more about Lansing Works To find out more about Maryann and what her business offers, visit https://www.lansingofficeworks.com/ or give them a follow over on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn!
Listener, when I was mapping out the first part of the year here at The Found Podcast and decided that February was all about belief and self-confidence, I just KNEW we had to have my friend Coach Kiah in for a guest interview. Kiah Twisselman Burchett is a California cattle rancher turned motivational speaker on a mission to empower others to love themselves deeper, care for themselves better, and find joy in this messy, beautiful, journey of life. Through hosting retreats, motivational speaking, her podcast Climbing with Coach Kiah, and coaching her clients, Coach Kiah helps women cultivate confidence through self-awareness, compassion, curiosity, and growth. As she shares in the episode, Kiah wouldn’t always describe herself as “confident,” but through all the peaks and valleys of her lived experience, she’s learned to lean into her gifts, talents, and dreams, to write her own story. Our time together FLEW by and I just loved where the journey took us in today’s episode. Be sure to visit Coach Kiah’s website for more, including details on her upcoming Ireland retreat, her Cultivating Confidence free downloadable guide, and more of her energetic and inspirational stories from her podcast. Key Takeaways * She calls herself a “California cattle ranch kid,” and throughout her life Kiah has found herself coming back time and again to the rural/ag community. * Kiah says that a lot of her self-worth over the years was defined by her picture of the “ideal body.” Her journey to attain that body over nearly two decades lead to a series of yo-yo fad diets before a pivotal moment caused her to take massive action and reinvent herself and her entire life. * Kiah found success in her mental, physical, and emotional wellness when she stopped restricting herself and began celebrating, loving, and nourishing herself with what she needed: “It was more about what would make me feel really good today…and really it was about focusing on the mindset aspect first.” * “I had no idea where my life would be now, five years ago. And I’m not naive enough to say that I know what the next five years of my life will look like. I don’t know, but I’m along for the ride!” * “The truth is that I really do believe that every single one of us are the main characters in our own lives, but whether or not we feel that way is another story.” * “All of us are looking for this prescriptive list…we want someone to tell us what to do…But the question isn’t “what do I do?” the question is “how do I think?” and the thinking and the feeling is the hardest part of this journey but it’s the most important piece.” * It’s the thinking and the feeling, not the doing, that will ultimately propel us to personal and professional success and belief in ourselves. * “We are not even aware of the stories we are constantly ruminating on in the back of our minds.” Coach Kiah really believes that journaling and getting those thoughts out on paper is a helpful tool for reflection, self-awareness, and growth. * Where is Coach Kiah climbing in 2024? Listen to the full episode to find out!
Climb with Kiah Check out all that Coach Kiah has to offer on her website, especially her podcast library and her Cultivating Confidence guide, or connect with her over on IG for all the updates in her upcoming adventures.
Have you ever held yourself back from something because you just didn’t think you were “ready yet?” * Held yourself back from a promotion? * Knocked your pricing down a little bit because you were worried about what other people think? * Waited to make a purchase? * Bit your tongue instead of spoke your true feelings aloud? * Held off until “Monday,” “next week,” or “next month” to begin a new habit?
Ladies, we often are our own worst enemies in holding ourselves back due to imposter syndrome. We feel like we don’t have enough education, experience, or preparation, for the next step we’re considering and therefore we don’t make a move…at all. Imposter syndrome isn’t a new concept, and it affects a majority of women in their personal and professional lives. It keeps us small, it has us feeling stuck, and it’s time to say, “that’s enough of that shit.” The antidote to imposter syndrome? Cultivating our belief in ourselves as individuals, moms, wives, aunties, friends, teammates, and business owners. Self-belief doesn’t just come from the ground, though. It involves taking messy action so we learn to trust ourselves. Trusting ourselves over time so that we become confident in our abilities, and turning that confidence into an innate belief of who we are and what we are capable of. In today’s episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth, I share some surprising facts about imposter syndrome, actions to take as we begin to flex our trust and confidence muscles, and ultimately how to believe that we have what it takes to be our best selves in 2024. Actions Steps for Stepping into Trust, Confidence, and Belief in Yourself While I wish I could take credit for the following action steps, they are attributed to my friends at The Restoration Project and the article The 4 P’s of Imposter Syndrome and How They Impact Women by Lis Cashin. 1. Journal on the following questions: 1. What do I like about myself? 2. What do I know about myself? 3. What seems to come more naturally to me than to others? 4. What positive feedback am I consistently given that rings true to me? 5. Where do I feel most confident in my ability to contribute? 6. What am I best at? 7. What drains my energy? 8. What is difficult for me? 9. What are my weaknesses? 2. Network with people who you identify with the future you and where you’re growing into. Find membership groups, peer groups, mentors, community groups, who you can relate with and learn from. 3. Embrace imperfection! Give yourself permission to act when you only feel about 60% ready (don’t wait to feel 100% there!) and the grace to know that you WILL make mistakes, and you WILL learn from them to make improvements and get better. 4. Set realistic goals! Hot take: instead of a crazy huge, ambitious, hard to reach goal, knock it down a peg so it is attainable! Then you can celebrate your success, build momentum, and use it to motivate yourself going forward.
Helpful Links: * The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fuck by Mark Manson * You are a Badass by Jen Sincero * Cultivating Confidence download by Coach Kiah * Podcast: Self-Confidence is Bullshit by Coach Kiah * Article: Imposter Syndrome Predominantly Affects Women - Here’s How we can Overcome It by Cheri Beranek * Article: The 4 P’s of Imposter Syndrome and How They Impact Women by Lis Cashin * Enhancing Our Confidence by Lindsay Leahy
Get in the MKM Book Club In February, MKM is hosting our second month of the MKM Book Club for entrepreneurs and small business owners who desire community and personal/professional development each month. Our first selection is The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson. Manson makes the argument, backed both by academic research and well-timed poop jokes, that improving our lives hinges not on our ability to turn lemons into lemonade, but on learning to stomach lemons better. Human beings are flawed and limited—"not everybody can be extraordinary, there are winners and losers in society, and some of it is not fair or your fault." Manson advises us to get to know our limitations and accept them. Once we embrace our fears, faults, and uncertainties, once we stop running and avoiding and start confronting painful truths, we can begin to find the courage, perseverance, honesty, responsibility, curiosity, and forgiveness we seek. To join the MKM Book Club visit mkm.myflodesk.com/mkmfebruarybookclub
Have you ever wished you could just ask an expert, “how the heck do I do this…in simple terms?” That's exactly what I thought as I was planning out 2024 content for The Found Podcast. Why not give entrepreneurs and small business owners an opportunity to ask real questions in real time and get real answers that matter to them? In this new format called “Coaching Calls,” small business owners and entrepreneurs are given an opportunity to submit one question they would like to ask me about marketing, business growth, personal development, or anything that we touch on here at The Found Podcast. When I saw the first submission come in from this friend of the pod, I was so excited! And I knew we had to have her on, not just because she's amazing and her business is so impressive, but also because her question is so relatable and probably on your mind too: “Molly should I add TikTok in 2024 to my marketing tool kit?” Why to Add TikTok in ‘24 Now, my friend this is a very layered question, and as I go into with Alix, it's not as simple as just starting an account and saying “Hey, follow me now!” I highly recommend that anytime you add a platform to your marketing toolkit you make sure A: that it is aligned with your ideal audience B: that you have the time to dedicate to the learning and the growth it's going to take to get started on the platform C: that you develop a long-term and short-term plan for how this new platform will serve your business In 2024, I do think that TikTok offers a great opportunity for business owners who are product based and are direct to consumer, but I do think there are a few other items to consider before diving into TikTok for business. For example you'll hear me talk with Alix about developing a serial approach to your TikTok videos so there are multiple videos produced in a similar style. You’ll also hear me advising Alex on growth strategies and understanding which accounts are already connecting with her ideal client and how she can use some of those accounts to inspire her creativity or guide her content as she grows for her business. If you are asking yourself: “Should I add TikTok to my business marketing?” go ahead and tune into this coaching call, my friend. It's a 20 minute conversation that will really help you as you consider adding a platform to your marketing repertoire in the new year. A little more about our guest today… Alix and I got to know each other in 2021 when she enrolled in the first iteration of MKM Social School, and over the past few years I’ve gotten to know her and her business a little better. Alix and her husband live in McCook, Nebraska, where together they raise three boys and own and operate Sehnert’s Bakery & Bieroc Cafe, a 500-year-old business that originated in Germany. You can here more of her business’ evolution and her founder story in Episode 77 of The Found Podcast (which was called Small-Minded when we originally recorded this interview in 2022). Learn more about Sehnert’s Bakery Give Sehnert’s a follow over on Instagram and Facebook and head to their website to get in contact!
Tis the damn season: the season for writing out our big goals for the new year. Many of us have grown up and built our businesses on the idea that you need to draft big, hairy, scary goals and start tackling them, like yesterday with new methods, strategies, and a whole new you when January 1 rolls around. But the truth is that in reaching goals or pursuing change at any level, success doesn’t lie in the audaciousness of the goal itself, but in the habits you put in place to help you reach your goals over time. As James Clear says, “You have to standardize before you optimize.” The more you virtualize the beginning of a process and the more you can repeat it, the more you can rewire your brain and make it second nature. Over time, this results in the creation of a habit and allows your body to take over in pursuit of your new goal. In today’s episode of The Found Podcast with Molly Knuth, we discuss the procuss of building new habits, how to get them to stick, and helpful tools to help you create new habits in the new year. Establishing a New Habit While I wish I could take credit for the following action steps, they are attributed to the one and only James Clear in his article How to Build a New Habit: This is Your Strategy Guide. 1. Start with an incredibly small habit. Make it so tiny and easy you can’t say no. 2. Increase your habit in very small ways. Progressively add resistance, time, and intensity so your willpower and motivation have time to catch up. 3. Break habits into chunks. Don’t burn yourself out, that’s a one-way ticket to feeling unable to continue. Give yourself smaller milestones that add up to big wins. 4. Get back on track quickly. Aim for consistency over perfection, and never miss twice. 5. Pick a sustainable pace and give yourself time. Track your progress so you can see your results and build confidence. 6. BONUS: (this one is from Molly) put an accountability practice in place.
Helpful Links: * How to Build a New Habit: This is Your Strategy Guide article by James Clear * To Create a Healthy Habit, Find an Accountability Buddy article by Tara Parker-Pope * Atomic Habits by James Clear * Badass Habits by Jen Sincero * The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven R. Covey * High Performance Habits by Brendan Burchard * You Do You 82 Habit Challenge with Emily Reuschel
Get in the MKM Book Club In January, MKM is launching a free resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners who desire community and personal/professional development each month with our MKM Book Club. Our first selection is Badass Habits by Jen Sincero. Badass Habits is a eureka-sparking, easy-to-digest look at how our habits make us who we are, from the measly moments that happen in private to the resolutions we loudly broadcast (and, erm, often don't keep) on social media. Habit busting and building goes way beyond becoming a dedicated flosser or never showing up late again--our habits reveal our unmet desires, the gaps in our boundaries, our level of self-awareness, and our unconscious beliefs and fears. Badass Habits features Jen's trademark hilarious voice and offers a much-needed fresh take on the conventional wisdom and science that shape the optimism (or pessimism?) around the age-old topic of habits. The book includes enlightening interviews with people who've successfully strengthened their discipline backbones, new perspective on how to train our brains to become our best selves, and offers a simple, 21 day, step-by-step guide for ditching habits that don't serve us and developing the habits we deem most important. Habits shouldn't be impossible to reset--and with healthy boundaries, knowledge of--and permission to go after--our desires, and an easy to implement plan of action, we can make any new goal a joyful habit. To join the MKM Book Club visit mkm.myflodesk.com/bookclub
This episode of the found podcast is unlike any other you have heard here before! Number one: we have a guest on the podcast for the first time in months! We are welcoming my sister Jessie Ryan to the pod today, and Jessie brings with her a fresh perspective that we haven't had on the podcast before! Jessie comes to us as a nurse and leader in the health care field. She is part of the University Of Iowa Hospitals And Clinics, and today we really do talk about anything and everything. We wanted this to just be like a fun little conversation between sisters. We are lovingly calling this “Cascade Heights” because, you know, siblings hosting a podcast together with no apparent point…I mean doesn't it just bring you the “New Heights” Jason and Travis Kelsey vibe??? So we're calling it “Cascade Heights” because that's where we came from: Cascade, Iowa. We talk about our upbringing in a small town. We talk about Christmas memories. We talke about the best Christmas gifts we've ever received. We talk about memories of Christmas. FYI: parents you might want to watch out for little ears as you're listening to today's episode! We talk a lot about what computers used to be like. We talked about recording cassettes off the radio. We talk about her work experience and what it means to be a leader, how workplace culture affects the value you feel in the workplace, and how she's really seeing the importance and the emphasis on culture by her own leadership team. So, we talk about a lot of things you know Zac Efron, Taylor Swift, Polly Pocket, The Sims, but please know that there isn't really a point. While you won't get a ton of business expertise from today's episode, I hope you get some giggles and some joy! From me to you, happy holidays and I will see you in the new year! Key Links: * High School Musical 3 TikTok we reference: https://www.tiktok.com/@giannacervino/video/7310984936809319723?_r=1&_t=8i70RkZ0gUI * Polly Pocket set we reference: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CxksHRotU-a/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== * Loving Family Dollhouse that Jessie references: https://www.ebay.com/itm/364621207003?hash=item54e51e15db:g:E~kAAOSwCnxlS~BM * This is what I was picturing in my head: https://www.ebay.com/itm/295959816882?chn=ps&mkevt=1&mkcid=28 * The Sims 1 Gameplay: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryanplaysthesims/video/7301422497361153312?lang=en * The Sims 2 Trailer: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesims2.org/video/7110279272673168645?lang=en * Jessie’s Barbie Dream House: https://www.tiktok.com/@thenostalchick/video/7251219502149487914?_r=1&_t=8i8DZP8VeWN
149: MKM Wrapped: 2023 Recap If you like me, binged your Spotify Wrapped analysis last week, you are my kind of people. As I swiped through my recap of top songs, top artists, time spent binge listening to Taylor Swift and Zach Bryan and Dax Shepard, and places around the world with listening habits similar to mine (Bozeman, MT), I was inspired to complete my own Wrapped for MKM 2023. In today’s episode, we’ll break down my top ten things learned at MKM this year, including but not limited to: 1. the power of having a mantra to root into and orient your actions all year long 2. the power of tiny, consistent habits 3. the power of asking “what if?” 4. the power of letting go
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Hey there, listener. In this week’s solocast we’re tackling the to-do list. Specifically, what is on your list just to do and what is there to make a real difference in your business? How many courses or workshops have we taken without implementing? How many self-help books have we read without helping? How many storage bins have we purchased without doing any organizing? This podcast discusses the difference between action instead of just motion. As small business owners we’re always moving. But do our motions move us forward? Key Takeaways * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood Drop 10 linked here, follow Erica on Instagram and Facebook * “The pursuit of a goal isn’t just in managing the mile markers to get us to that end result.” * “We don’t rise to the level of our goals, we fall to the level of the systems we put in place as we reach for those goals.” - Atomic Habits by James Clear * Stack habits you would like to adopt with habits you already have. * Consider workshops and education opportunities carefully. Do they put you in ACTION or just in motion? * “Motion in a business can look like creating the world's most gorgeous social media content calendar, but it is only motion if you don't actually push publish on the post.” * Analyze the actions you make regularly and question how the result will help you in the long run. * Build a reflection time into you schedule at least once a week to revisit if your actions are moving the needle. * Dollars are not your only currency. Also consider how you spend your time and energy. * Suneera Madhani of the CEO School Podcast has the method of Do, Delegate, and Delete for determining what tasks to focus on. * “Rest is an active choice when you are someone who is ambitious and motivated and driven.” * Your homework is to TAKE ACTION. Don’t just let your next business podcast play, go now and GET STARTED on something you took away from today.
Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Your Lover Era: Video Get ready to see sparks fly across your business’ social media platforms! Every day this week on The Found Podcast I’ll share quick, actionable tips for engaging content to close out the final quarter of 2023. Are you ready for it? Today’s Intention: Put your face on video if you want to make a connection with your followers. Just last year reels and TikToks were the fast-track to success. Video is no longer guaranteed to go viral, but it remains a great way to connect with your audience. What’s working now doesn’t require fancy transitions and heavy editing: Try some B-roll background video overlaid with a hook and an insightful, educational caption. Use video to humanize your brand and connect with viewers. Take them behind the scenes on your day-to-day or offer a live Q&A session. Videos can be simple, but it doesn’t take a lot to do them well. Seek out good lighting and get a wireless mic for the best sound. The algorithms seem to prefer you to edit within their platform. Otherwise, Camtasia is my favorite software for long-form editing. Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Your Reputation Era: Captions Get ready to see "sparks fly" across your business’ social media platforms! Every day this week on The Found Podcast I’ll share quick, actionable tips for engaging content to close out the final quarter of 2023. "Are you ready for it?" Today’s Intention: Get real with our writing and know that there is a way to make it more efficient and engaging. Use ChatCPT to generate a content calendar and captions for your business. It’s going to take a little work to train it to “know you,” but it can respond with a specific length, objective, and tone for a post. Edit your posts to include words and phrases you typically use and make sure each caption has a hook, body to explain the point, and call to action for what your followers should do next. Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Your 1989 Era: Storytelling Get ready to see "sparks fly" across your business’ social media platforms! Every day this week on The Found Podcast I’ll share quick, actionable tips for engaging content to close out the final quarter of 2023. "Are you ready for it?" Today’s Intention: Get real with ourselves about how we need to use storytelling in our marketing if we want people to remember it. I’ve covered narrative framework in depth in previous episode (Episode 147), but provide a quick refresh here. Think of your social media post, or series of posts, like the plot maps we made in middle school. We need characters, a setting, a problem, and solution. Don’t come right at your audience with a “HEY! Buy my product!” Instead, build a story that illustrates how your product or service can solve a problem. You might be a few posts into a series without mentioning your product at all. Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Your Red Era: Graphics Get ready to see "sparks fly" across your business’ social media platforms! Every day this week on The Found Podcast I’ll share quick, actionable tips for engaging content to close out the final quarter of 2023. "Are you ready for it?" Today’s Intention: Stop making boring graphics. Ok. Graphics for your social media are NOT the same as the newspaper. You do NOT have to fit ALL your information in one. single. square. Go with a carousel: A multi-image graphics-based post. Each “swipe for more” is an engagement that the algorithm loves. Use Canva to create your graphics with templates. Templates can be found on Canva, Creative Market, or customized with a graphic designer. Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Your TS Era: Photos Get ready to see "sparks fly" across your business’ social media platforms! Every day this week on The Found Podcast I’ll share quick, actionable tips for engaging content to close out the final quarter of 2023. "Are you ready for it?" Today’s Intention: Understand and implement what’s working right now with photography on social media What’s working RIGHT NOW for photos on social media? I share my top tips in today’s mini-episode: * People stop their scroll for PEOPLE, even if it’s hands posing with a product * Keep it simple: Unposed and unperfect photos are all the rage. * Use multiple images per post * Use nostalgic photos * Invest in brand photography (@maddiepeschong on Instagram) * Consider stock photography (@michellemensing.photography on Instagram) * Make your photos pop in just a few taps with preset filters (@randileaphotography on Instagram)
Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Your Social Era Get ready to see "sparks fly" across your business’ social media platforms! Every day this week on The Found Podcast I’ll share quick, actionable tips for engaging content to close out the final quarter of 2023. "Are you ready for it?" Today’s Intention: Get real with ourselves about how our social is doing It’s easy to get stuck in a rut with our content creation. If you feel like your content is stale and same-old-same, sorry to tell you, but your audience probably feels the same way. The good news is there are no rules and you can absolutely improve to get the impact you’re searching for. It’s going to take a little risk and a lot of clarity, but I’ll be there by your side. This week I’m sharing what works NOW in Q4 on social media. No fluff- just six quick episodes on what you need to hook your ideal follower and engage their attention. Connect with Molly Sign up for the MKM Eras Bootcamp for just $77 Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Hey there, listener. I’ve shared before that I am (and always have been) a total bookworm. My favorite memories from teaching are getting kids to love reading for reading’s sake, not just for points on a quiz. There’s something about a great story that makes memories so much more vivid. I can remember exactly where I was, what I was eating, and how I felt while reading a Laura Ingalls book as a fourth grader. I can’t tell you the exact title, because memory is like that. We don’t always remember the details, but the big picture sticks. In this episode I’m sharing how to use stories to help your big picture stick with your audience by using a narrative framework as your marketing plan. Key Takeaways * “It's so easy to forget the specific facts and figures of something but the compelling nature of narratives stay with us.” * Psychologist Jerome Bruner’s research suggests facts are 20 times more likely to be remembered if they are part of a story. * In a random group, roughly 40% of people are auditory learners, 40% respond best to visuals, and 20% learn by doing. Stories help each of these types of learners create a mental picture to view in their mind’s eye. * Book recommendation: Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller * There are five elements to a story that our marketing needs as well: Exposition (Introducing your team and location), rising action (sharing problems your product or service could solve), climax (advocating for your product or service), falling action (sharing next steps), and resolution (showing the transformative power of your product or service). * “Features or specifics can be forgotten, but story sticks.” * Frame your business’s best or worst moments into the context of a story and bring them into a narrative structure. Choose the right medium like a visual on Instagram, a long-form blog post, or a newsletter series.
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram. Reach out by email: hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Welcome back, listener. In this week’s episode of the Found podcast I’m sharing a tale of two vacations. Both are very memorable but only one for good reasons. When Ryan and I went to Texas, that was literally our only plan. Go to Texas. We wanted to be fun and spontaneous but we ended up being absorbed in choosing our next stop or where we would sleep that night. We didn’t have the shackles of a schedule, but we didn’t have support either. For our South Dakota family vacation, we learned a little. Your girl is still NOT going to have a spreadsheet itinerary, but we at least booked our stays in advance. We listed the landmarks we were excited to see and had a rough idea on which days each event would happen. THAT vacation is remembered for the good things. I share my vacation examples to illustrate a helpful marketing strategy: Begin with the end in mind. Key Takeaways * Don’t miss the Re-Find mini episode series * If you feel lost in the marketing noise you are not alone. According to this survey, the average American sees between 4,000-10,000 ads each day: Double the rate of 2007 and five times the rate of the 1970s! * “In order to cut through the noise, your best bet is to make sure that wherever people encounter you, the most effective thing you can do is have cohesiveness.” * For your customer: Begin with the end in mind. Illustrate the end goal that your product or service can help your client achieve. Paint the destination super clearly. * Offer a scenic route or an interstate highway with turn-by-turn directions. * Avoid just listing products and services. Instead include them in an overall marketing message that illustrates the final goal. * Create marketing that is aligned, cohesive, and moves people down the path to work with you. * If you are seeking a scenic route for marketing help, check out the MKM shop at mollyknuthmedia.com/shop. * Personalized marketing strategy is my JAM! If you would like the highway route of 1:1 support, email me at hello@mollyknuthmedia.com
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
This episode’s intention: Make a brave choice to do the work and follow the framework to begin the process of re-finding yourself. In 2018 my daughter, then five, went through a horrible medical event. It is impossible to summarize, but I attempt in this episode. My community was amazing and rallied around my family during that time. But the hardest part of returning home was running in to well-wishers who asked me how my daughter was doing. I would inevitably cry, which I hate doing, and I would be called so strong, which I hated hearing. To me, strong is intentional work of showing up and gradually progressing. It is a choice. I didn’t choose this. But I was brave. I was terrified. But I kept a positive attitude, I kept it together, I talked to the doctors, I asked the questions. That’s bravery. It’s looking a shitty situation in the eye and walking straight into it. When you keep making these brave choices a little at a time, the future you will eventually be a stronger version of yourself. You don’t have to be strong (yet) to make a change. But you can be brave. Resources * The Power of Community with Charlotte Knuth podcast episode (aka the long story) * Molly Knuth Media shop * Be Brave pennant * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
This episode’s intention: Be honest with yourself about something you’ve been actively avoiding. In April of 2022 I made a huge investment in “the next big thing” that I was hoping meant a huge boon of cash for my business. Rather than investing in a bookkeeper… which I think I knew I needed… I covered by insecurities by investing in an opportunity to make MORE money because that would magically solve everything. That didn’t work. This episode is your reminder to just do the thing. Avoiding my problem didn’t do me any good and probably made it worse. My investment in hiring Sheila Hansen CPA has been amazing for my business. I’m so grateful to have her on board, but I’m bummed to think that I could be six more months ahead if I had listened to myself in the first place. Resources * Perspectives from a “Failing” Business Owner Podcast episode * High Performance Habits by Brendon Burchard * Satoteur Assessment * “How to Stop Avoiding What Scares or Overwhelms You” article * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
This episode’s intention: Become aware of the correlation between what you eat with your body cues, energy levels, and mental clarity. I’m so annoyed that I have to share this episode. But I (unfortunately) have found a huge correlation between what I eat and how I feel. When I fall out of my positive health routines like drinking a lot of water and exercising regularly, I am tense and irritable. By working with a nutrition coach over the past few years, I’ve learned which foods support and deplete me. I know I feel best when I am intentional and consistent with nutrition and exercise. I really wish I could live on fair food year round, but I learned the hard way how much food really affects my mood. When I eat like shit, I feel like shit, and I treat other people… not so great. Resources * Book: The Body Keeps the Score * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood Macronutrients Guide * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood freebie: What does 100 grams of Protein Look Like? * Nutrition Statistics Article * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
This episode’s intention: How can I spend intentional time outdoors to ground myself? How can we forget the early days of the pandemic? I remember bursting into tears at the thought of leaving my house to pick up a drive-up pizza. So much was uncertain. I was desperate for activities to keep kids off screens and occupy their brains and bodies. “Nature walks” became a favorite pastime. Nature was kind enough to bless us with a warm spring and we were outside on our property whenever we could be. We loved naming the “sites” on our property, watching the seasons slowly change, and just existing. Now that life is relatively back to normal, with its activities and demands on our time, our nature walks are less frequent. But I know I feel best with some dirt under my nails. I’m so grateful for the medicine that nature provided in those scary pandemic times, and for reminding us that calm can be found in our own backyard. Resources * “Nurtured Nature” article * Ocean Relaxation film * River Sounds film * Forest Relaxation film * Landscapes Relaxation film * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here
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This episode’s intention: Who am I surrounded by, and how can I be an influencer? You’ve heard that you are the average of the five people with whom you spend the most time. Think about the energy and conversations you surround yourself with. Do you feel supported? Does this align with your future? Awesome! If you feel off, consider how you can influence conversations and energy to be more positive. Take the time to assess your circle and see if it is providing the support you need. Maybe it’s time to adjust your average. Resources * “Choose Your Circle Wisely” article * Tribes by Seth Godin * Contagious Emotions article * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here
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This episode’s intention: How can I grow my (physical and mental) muscles today? When I reflect back on the times in my life when things seemed to be going really well- when I was really crushing it in other aspects of my life- I was weight training. I find that mind-body connection so fascinating. I know personally, and research supports, that strength training supports self-confidence, mood, and brainpower. Making time for fitness hasn’t always been simple. In yesterday’s episode I shared how I started to value strength training. Sometimes I’m even stronger than I was then and sometimes prioritizing fitness is the furthest thing from my mind. But I know, and I challenge you to discover, that strength in workouts translates to strength in many aspects of life. Resources * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood Glutes + Arms workout * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood Arm-Toning exercises * Sweat Inspire Sisterhood Travel-Friendly workout * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here.
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This episode’s intention: How can I build confidence in myself in just 10 minutes? Back in 2015 I was a 28-year-old stay-at-home mom of three kids in four years. I didn’t feel like I had the time or energy to spend on myself. That spring when a fitness studio opened up in my small town, a friend and I signed up for the daily 5:15 am fitness classes. I don’t know that I was particularly interested in fitness, but the invitation to get out of the house and spend time with friends was enough to get me hooked. I took “before” pictures and continued them for the nine months I went to these classes. My body changed a bit, but the most important change I could see was in my confidence and smile. This habit showed me I was a dependable person capable of showing up and making a change. After this episode, I challenge you to see what you can do with a 10-minute block of time each day for one week. It’s hard to carve hours out of your busy life, but those minutes build up. See what happens when you prove to yourself what consistency can do for you. Resources * Atomic Habits by James Clear * “Enhancing Our Confidence” by Lindsay Leahy of The Restoration Project * 20-Hour Rule article on LinkedIn * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here
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This episode’s intention: What do I need to make me wake up in the morning and actually BE in a good mood? I started what I now call my “unravelling” period in the summer of 2022. For too many times in the same week I found myself staring at the ceiling at 3 am with my mind racing with all of my to-dos. Giving up on sleep, I started my work day. How could this be my dream small business? Was this “balance” sustainable in the future? In this episode I share how I freed up space to dream, create, and just enjoy life again. Dang it if I’m not proud of my Candy Crush streak and my ability to finally just enjoy something again. I’ve been waking up happy each morning (at a more appropriate time!) invigorated and alive. Resources * Screen time statistics of average Americans * Check out the Happiness Lab Podcast with Dr. Laurie Santos * Tune in this week for the Re-Find series and get the downloadable guide here.
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Happy September, listener! I’ve read that September is the new New Year and I agree. As a mom we’re getting back into the routine of life and there is a natural reflection that happens. In this first podcast of September I’m reflecting back on my business “failures” and sharing the lessons I took from them. I can’t help myself. My human design profile lines are a 3, have to try things out for myself, and a 5, have to show people what I learned. But that doesn’t make it easy. Failure (or what I have perceived as failure in the past) is my biggest fear. I’ve learned a lot over the last few years and hope you’ll find some takeaways in this vulnerable solocast. Key Takeaways * It’s taken some time for me to be able to talk about my business “failures” from a non-emotional, neutral space, but I’m giving it a try. In this podcast I’m recounting my three biggest failures and what I learned from them. * Failure One: Big News in June 2022 (4 min) In June 2022 I had a whole podcast sharing my big news of my realized goal of purchasing an old historic property downtown. Demo was great, but as the time came for making decisions I was totally frozen. * Saboteur Assessment (8 min) My saboteur type is avoidance, and avoid I did. I knew in August that this building wasn’t right for me but I didn’t admit it until winter. Finally in March I met someone with big dreams and a vision for the building. Passing the building on felt right, even though I was ashamed to let go of such a publicly shared goal. * “People’s businesses pivot. And actually, a sign of a business that has longevity and has stood the test of time, they aren’t the same business 5, 7, 15, 20 years down the road that they were when then started out.” (13 min) * “You set out to save a historic building. You may not have been the person to see it through the whole process, but you still held that building and made sure it went to someone who would care about it. So you did in fact satisfy what you set out to do” - My friend Kara of the BC Barnburner (16 min) * Failure Two: Business Finances (18 min) My business grew faster than the systems I had (or didn’t have) in place could sustain. I waited way too long to seek help. * I’m so grateful for Sheila Hansen and the changes she helped me make. We put so many systems in place, like billing for the month ahead with ACH, but she also made me examine my money mindset. She didn’t just do it for me; she coached me through. (25 min) * Failure Three: Trying to Out-Hustle (31 min) I thought I could just “Do one more thing” to try to outrun the problems I had with my business administration systems. * “There is no way you can outrun the systematic and structural deficiencies of a business by adding more to your plate.” (32 min) * “Be clear on your end result but be flexible on the path that gets you there.” (40 min)
P.S. This month marks the 3-year anniversary of the pod! It’s taken on some changes over that time, like all good things do, but I’m so grateful for your support. Thanks for listening! Connect Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey there, listener! It’s so good to “see” you again! I know I’ve technically been here all summer, but, in full disclosure, I batch recorded the summer episode way back in April. It’s been a great summer and I’m excited to finally be back at the mic. I kept this episode quick to ease my way back in and to really emphasize something I learned this last year or so - the secret sauce to getting found. Key Takeaways * A lot of social media content creating (that yes, I have contributed to!) is competitive. Look at me! I’m important! Look what I have! It’s time to listen: Get clear on who you are and your values and then start listening. * 2022 was my first year without a vision board and it showed. I felt untethered and started things just for the sake of starting them. Getting focused in 2023 has helped me have a more successful year. * There is so much content already out there! People feel pulled and stretched in so many ways. Try viewing social media as your flag in the sand where people know where to find you. * Reverse the structure of social media. Be listeners first and content creators second. * Have you ever had a fabulous offer and heard crickets when you released it? Reverse the structure and be a listener first, content creator second. * How did you get your following in the first place? How did you make those people feel heard and valued? * Make intentional time to listen but following other accounts, joining groups, or putting a question box in your stories. * “Not just prioritizing us getting found, but finding other people online.”
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Friends, you will LOVE today’s episode with Ruthie Sterrett. We had so much fun and I know it will come through the speakers. Join me as I totally nerd out on all things marketing for small business. I have so much respect for how Ruthie can break down big concepts and make them easily digestible and actionable. This podcast episode is full of takeaways for you to apply TODAY to get not just views, but a real impact. Key Takeaways * Ruthie is the face behind The Consistency Corner, a content management and marketing strategy agency for businesses. She offers done for you and done with you marketing plans, courses, and guidance. * Ruthie loved her career in retail but needed more flexibility with a growing family. She was able to replace her corporate income in just three months, but had spent the previous 18 months laying the groundwork for that transition. * It is SO important to narrow in on your ideal customer and keep them in mind. Stick to your brand’s and your personal WHY. * Books Ruthie recommends: Onward by Howard Schultz and Marketing Made Simple by Donald Miller * “The customer is always right, but not everyone is your ideal customer” * Ruthie’s success equation: (Time + Consistency + Intensity you can maintain) x Belief = Result. If something’s not working, brush up on your algebra skills and work backwards from this equation. * “Social Media is not a marketing strategy just like a coffee cup isn’t coffee. It’s a container for your coffee. Social media is a container for your content, which is part of your marketing strategy.” * “Pick the platforms that you can show up on consistently over time, and really hone in on those as your needle-movers” * Attract, nurture, convert: One piece of content cannot do all three * One BIG takeaway from today: Check out Ruthie’s gift to listeners of a holiday content planner with six weeks of content prompts!
Connect with Ruthie Connect with Ruthie on Instagram personally or through her business. Catch her podcast, The Consistency Corner, and find links to all these and more on her website. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
My friends, today you are in for a TREAT with today’s guest. Amanda Walker of The Best Damn Coach podcast and program is so fun and brings the ENERGY. She is so great at taking hard to understand concepts and making them clear, concise, and actionable. In this episode we talk about goals, mindset, and reverse engineering outcomes. Key Takeaways * Amanda is a Certified Master Coach and became a coach for the first time as a 15-year-old to pee-wee basketball boys. She went on to become a high school teacher and coach, Level 1 Crossfit Coach, Precision Nutrition Coach, Certified Master Life Coach, and NLP and hypnotherapy practioner. Whew! * Amanda left teaching after ten years and not feeling tapped in to her full potential. She now coaches coaches to get the best possible results for their clients. * Teaching taught Amanda to reverse engineer results, something she brings to coaching today: “What is that outcome that I desire and how can I break that down into smaller steps so that I get there in the end?” * How are teachers different than coaches? Teachers give step-by-step instructions but might not help with implementation and planning. Coaches help understand implementation and accountability. * “Mindset and the internal work is about 75% of the equation and the other remaining part is strategy.” * Amanda says to get clear where you want to go, even in the first year, and then thing and act like that future person. * Books Amanda recommends: Big Leap by Gay Hendricks and The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer
Episode Sponsors * If you are considering outsourcing bookkeeping or financial services, and intensive day with Sheila Hansen, CPA is THE way to get started. Learn more on Sheila’s website on the services tab. (P.S. Sheila has been a guest on the podcast before!) * I literally cried happy tears the first time I used Flodesk for my email list. Not only was it BY FAR the easiest platform I had tried, my emails were beautiful and matched my branding! Use my link for 50% off Flodesk.
Connect with Amanda Amanda is offering a free masterclass, sign up here. Connect with Amanda on Instagram or Facebook and find more information about working with her on her website. Amanda is the host of The Best Damn Coach podcast. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey there, listener. Welcome to another episode of the Found podcast, and it’s going to be a good one! I’m pleased to bring you Carrie Cohen of Carrie Cohen coaching. Her educational background and lived experiences from a practicing psychotherapist to owning her own business are perfect for this audience of female business owners. Our interview focused on the very basics of coaching and therapy, but since we pressed record, Carrie has specialized her services even further to helping married couples and those navigating the struggles of infertility. I know this will be an impactful interview with actionable takeaways for all our listeners. Key Takeaways * If you need a fairy godmother for your small business, please meet mine. Megan Knapp provides the virtual assisting services I need to keep my entire business organized. She’s now accepting new clients, so reach out at meganknappva@gmail.com. * I love having my own business except, well, the business side of things. Payroll, taxes, and billing stresses me out. Gusto takes care of all of that for me. It saves for taxes, automatically files, and reports on my behalf. Get a $100 gift card when you sign up with my link. * Carrie’s career started after grad school in 1999. She enjoyed clinical work and worked in agencies, foster care, administration, and then in private practice. * I love Carrie’s analogy of not putting beautiful new flooring over a wet, moldy subfloor. It’s important to deal with our underlying issues for our best future. * In 2015, Carrie was grappling with the sustainability of her work. She started to realize she was maxed out from a business standpoint. Covid became a silver lining that forced her to reconsider how she was doing business and provided space from obligations to reexamine her life. * Carrie recognized her purpose of bringing women together globally. She became certified in nutrition coaching and health coaching. Although she loved clinical practice, it felt stifling for her outgoing personality. * Carrie says 80% of serotonin is created in the gut, one example of why she believes a more holistic approach is necessary. She incorporates nutrition and polyvagal theory into her work. * “You need some really powerful intervening force that’s actually more potent than the hustling experience.” * Carrie uses the visual of a ladder to explain the different steps of polyvagal theory. “Burnout is living in a chronic state of sympathetic activation.” * “Most of the things we do to regulate ourselves are things we all do anyway, the difference here is using it intentionally and using it deliberately.” * “There’s one pie and it depends on how many slices there are, but there is only one pie and you have to take from somewhere.” * “Life is actually really hard and really painful. We need to create the experience of having pleasure, and joy, and interest, and excitement, and passion. Otherwise it won’t come. We’ll just be doing the thing.” * Carrie encourages female business owners to reach out and seek help from a coach or therapist. She says so many people feel like a big weight has been lifted in just the first session when few strategies have even been implemented yet. * The solution to shame is to expose it. It’s important to discuss what is holding you back with a professional.
Connect with Carrie I have GOT to learn more about polyvagal theory because it makes so much sense. Carrie offers an introduction to nervous system regulation you can access here. She uses LinkedIn most often and shares some of that content on Instagram.
Listener, if you haven’t heard of Dirt Road Candle Co, let me do the absolute honor of introducing you! Michelle Myers is a friend, small business mastermind buddy, and the woman behind the ONLY candle brand I have in my house. In this episode we chat about Michelle’s background and future in agriculture and her journey from making candles in her kitchen to building an amazing, authentic brand. Key Takeaways * If you need a fairy godmother for your small business, please meet mine. Megan Knapp provides the virtual assisting services I need to keep my entire business organized. She’s now accepting new clients, so reach out at meganknappva@gmail.com. * Listener, I used a debit card for my business purchases for so long. I heard some buzz about cash back rewards, did some of my own research, and landed on the Capital One Spark Business Card. I love to build my credit and earn money back on purchases I would make anyway. You need to make the best financial decisions for YOUR business, but if you’re looking for a great credit card for your small business, learn more here. * Michelle has been on the pod before in my small business besties episode. I first started following Michelle on Instagram after her episode on the Rural Revival podcast. * Michelle lives in rural Southwest Iowa on her fifth generation family farm. She currently lives in the home she was raised in! * Michelle started making candles with a thrifted double boiler in her own kitchen. When candles took over her whole home (literally!) she built a combination candle shed/farm office. * Michelles candles started as a hobby but became popular gifts, so she opened an Etsy shop. * Her early years were tough. Michelle commuted 50 minutes each way for her full time corporate job and would come home to pack orders. She said she kept her blinders on and focused on her goal. It made that crazy season doable. * Michelle is mostly self taught. She gets stuff done and encourages people to not over-research. * Community is so important to Michelle’s success, especially as a product based business. * Getting started in wholesale was a challenge initially. She says to remember that “no” can mean “just not right now.” She now sells online retail and wholesale and through Faire, an online wholesale marketplace (aka “Etsy for wholesale”). * Michelle’s brand is totally her. She really is just sharing her life. She loves and uses her products and adds to her line as a need arises. Her car freshies started when her friend’s daughter cried when she couldn’t bring her candle in the car! * Michelle is educating others about agriculture through her farm tours and open houses. Her fall open house is this August 4th and 5th.
Connect with Michelle Michelle’s branding is on. point. Shop at her website or follow her across the socials at @dirtroadcandleco (Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok) Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
This episode was recorded on the LAST day of school for my four kiddos. The next week we started our first summer with no formal childcare since I started my business. I love my flexible hours, but honestly, I have flexed them a little too broadly in the past. I’m determined to really be present with my family and soak up this magical summer. That calls for some careful strategy to make sure my business continues to flourish without me. I’m sharing my plan in this week’s podcast. Key Takeaways * Resources: This episode is best via video, linked here. Follow along in your printable workbook, and access the presentation here. * I’m booking eight sessions only with business owners looking to strategically plan and market their business in a short amount of time. Your Power Hour package includes a personal audit of your current strategies, three months of content mapped out, and 10 days of Voxer access. Book yours here. * I love having my own business except, well, the business side of things. Payroll, taxes, and billing stresses me out. Gusto takes care of all of that for me. It saves for taxes, automatically files, and reports on my behalf. Get a $100 gift card when you sign up with my link. * Clarity: Set a timer and sit with a stack of sticky notes. What do you most want to accomplish this summer? * Cataloging: Ask yourself what you already have that is doing well. How can you make things last a little longer? * Reduce, reuse, and recycle your content. You don’t have to constantly create. * Check your insights to see what content has done well, when, and why. * Create: Amp up your energy and bring your best self to social. Choose a format that fits your goals, and batch content for efficiency. * Convert: Why do you use social media in your business? What goals are you accomplishing with it? Make sure your content has a clear call to action. * Be sure that your social media strategy is serving your goals. Your time this summer is precious, so don’t waste it on things that aren’t converting. * Be a real person on social media. People can tell when you are just checking a box.
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
If the THOUGHT of legalese brings on hives, this is the episode for you. Sarah Waldbuesser of Destination Legal is passionate about helping coaches and entrepreneurs achieve their dreams in a smart and protected way. This episode is packed with the legal advice every business needs. You’ll want to bookmark this one for sure.
Key Takeaways * Sarah is an advocate for good contracts. She says they’re even more important than getting an LLC or insurance. No matter the size or location of your business, contracts build boundaries and set expectations. * Remember your website needs a privacy policy, disclaimer, terms of service, and terms of purchase. * Destination Legal has different contract templates for different industries. Life coaching has different liability than fitness and nutrition, for example. * If you’re confused about what services you may need, check out Sarah’s starter bundles. You can build as you grow. * When to trademark? Sarah says to do the gut check: How would you feel if you received a cease and desist for your signature program? If it would totally rock your business you need to trademark. * Should you get an LLC or S Corp? S Corps are for corporations. You can always start with an LLC and move up to an S Corp in the future. * The FIRST legal help you need is a contract, LLC comes next. Don’t let the LLC stop you from getting started, but a contract is a must. * Here is a link to Sarah’s free legal checklist for coaches.
Connect with Sarah Find Sarah on Instagram, Facebook, and on her business website Destination Legal. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Listener, today you are in for a treat. In this episode I sit down with Jada Dobesh of Selah Space in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Jada was recommended to me by a friend who said I would be BLOWN AWAY (in a good way). Let me tell you, I was. Our time together FLEW by and I learned so much in our time together. I know you’ll find something here that connects with you. Key Takeaways * Content Confident subscription from MKM: More efficient, less stressful, plug and play social media strategy * It’s hard to fit Jada’s job description into a single sentence: She’s a spiritual healing facilitator, certified Reiki practitioner, and has a psychology background. She practices at the intersection of three main topics: Spirituality, sexuality, and self-worth. Our society has taught us those three things are not meant to go together, but Jada is helping us unlearn that. * As a child of divorced parents, Jada wanted to be a Marriage and Family Therapist. As an undergrad she changed her major to youth ministry. She graduated, got married, and started her career in a single week! * Selah is a Hebrew word with no good translation, but means “Stop and think about what the lyrics just said.” * Jada worked with a spiritual guide and a therapist and noticed she could talk about her sex life with one and her spirituality with another. She knew women would benefit from someone who could help with both. * As a youth minister Jada loved working with the moms most. Moms are still her favorite people to work with, especially those for whom everything is “technically fine.” * We discuss how we can be addicted to busyness and chaos and what that models for our children. “Oh my gosh, how do I not destroy my kids?” * Jada offers the program Menstrual Mystics to help us REALLY understand our cycle. She gives a quick breakdown in our episode but ladies, LOOK THIS UP! Jada’s socials are linked at the bottom of these notes. * Our cycle starts with the first day of your last “period” but there are several periods to a cycle. * The Follicular phase mirrors spring and we are flirty, young, and have so many ideas. It’s best to not execute on these ideas, but take lots of notes! * Ovulation is 3-5 days and is like the full moon of summer. This is the time to communicate, network, interview, and batch content. We are at our BEST. * Luteal is our fall. If you struggle with reproductive health, these are the days when you feel it the most. * Menstrual phase is what we commonly refer to as our period, and it’s time to REST. This is not when we are irrational, it is when we are done with BS and (rightfully!) mad at the world. * Jada carefully considers habits that affect hormones. She recommends eating within an hour of waking up, limiting exercise to 30 minutes for most women, and avoiding caffeine during your menstrual period. Lunch is a great time to exercise to prevent an afternoon slump. * This interview left me craving more information. Check out Jada’s offerings here. I especially love the description for Soul Illume: “You’re supposed to take up space, to live your spirit-led life by listening closely to your intuition and honoring its call.” * I love her response to the saying that you can’t pour from and empty cup. She says she prefers the analogy of a champagne fountain where everyone can be served at once. * I literally cried happy tears the first time I used Flodesk for my email list. Not only was it BY FAR the easiest platform I had tried, my emails were beautiful and matched my branding! Use my link for 50% off Flodesk.
Connect with Jada Check out her offerings on her website or connect with Jada on Instagram.
Hey there, reader! Happy small business week! (And teacher appreciation… and nurse appreciation..) What a travesty that all of these incredible people have to share a single week! This week on the Found podcast we are focusing on you, the small business owner. Or you the entrepreneur. Which is which? Can you be both? This solocast breaks it down. Key Takeaways * If you, like me, identify as a creative, you might love the doing and creating in your business but maybe aren’t as confident in making money decisions. My friend, Sheila Hansen CPA, is my secret weapon and is booking a limited number of Intensive Days in 2023. If you are considering outsourcing bookkeeping or financial services, this is THE way to get started. I have worked with Sheila in many capacities but especially valued our intensive day together back in October 2021. Learn more on Sheila’s website on the services tab. (P.S. Sheila has been a guest on the podcast before!) * I used to use the terms “small business owner” and “entrepreneur” interchangeably: “There isn’t a better, there is only a different, and that is okay.” * To describe the difference in the two titles I’m referencing an oldie-but-goodie 10-year-old article from Entrepreneur magazine. * “Small business owners have a great idea, while entrepreneurs have big ideas.” * Small business owners add their own flavor to a blueprint that is already in place, while entrepreneurs think bigger and take more risk and chance. * Small business owners have a dependable, repeatable process with margin for profit, and with time and consistency that business will keep them employed and in the mix of the business dealings. Entrepreneurs like profit too but will often answer the little voice that says “what if we try it this way instead.” * Small business owners are part of the day-to-day and have a direct hands-on role in making sure everything is completed. Entrepreneurs is thinking out far ahead and depending on a team to carry the weight of day-to-day tasks. * Small business owners are sentimental with their business while entrepreneurs are focused on scaling and selling. * A healthy economy needs both entrepreneurs and small business owners. Your own business sometimes needs you to be a mix of both. I started MKM as an entrepreneur when social media marketing wasn’t a thing yet. I moved into the headspace of a small business owner to secure a dependable income and profit for my business. Now I’m enjoying a flow back to a more entrepreneurial mindset and enjoying the ride. * I literally cried happy tears the first time I used Flodesk for my email list. Not only was it BY FAR the easiest platform I had tried, my emails were beautiful and matched my branding! Use my link for 50% off Flodesk.
Connect Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Welcome to another episode of the Found podcast! I’m excited to bring you someone I met years ago in a mastermind for revitalizing small towns and have since come to consider a friend and one of the smartest people I know. Kara Hammes loves to travel, puts family first, and is an amazing planner and organizer. Professionally, she welcomes guests from all over the country to her multiuse rental property, the Brown County Barn Burner. Key Takeaways * We always link contact info at the end of these notes, but seriously, go check out the Brown County Barn Burner’s website right. now. It is a must for understanding this amazing property! * Kara and her husband designed and built the Brown County Barn Burner in the south central Indiana town of Nashville. The area is known for its beautiful parks. * The property includes an event space, four short-term rental apartments, and a commercial space leased to a bike shop. * Kara is a big fan of the financial independence movement and used her “FU money” to take a step back from an unenjoyable career. * As avid travelers with family and friends, they noticed a gap in the market for large group accommodations in Brown County. They very intentionally designed their space to be the perfect space for vacationing groups. * Kara relates to the saying “needing a vacation after the vacation” and works hard to make their rental space the most accommodating place possible. She wants everyone in their groups, especially the organizing-minded moms, to enjoy their stay and really relax. * Kara always walks through a space before the guests arrive and tries to anticipate any needs that may arise. She says it’s a good weekend if her guests don’t need her at all. * The decor throughout their spaces is just amazing. Kara very carefully thrifted and sourced each item. Obviously, there is a cost savings to used pieces when furnishing four apartments at once. But she also wants to have a cozy feel of nothing being too precious for the guests to enjoy. “Everything is one of a kind but nothing is irreplaceable.”
Financial Independence Followup After the interview Kara contacted me with her favorite personal finance resources. * Money with Katie and her accompanying podcast * JL Collins’s stock series, starting with this blog post, or their book * A good overview of financial independence and getting started on Mr. Money Mustache (Kara says Pete is a little more hardcore than other resources!)
Connect with Kara You haven’t checked their website yet? Go there now! Connect with Kara on Instagram. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Welcome, listener to this edition of the Found podcast. In this episode I’m recapping the talk I gave at the University of Northern Iowa’s Women In Business Organization’s Young Women in Leadership conference. I’m sharing many memories today but an important one is attending a “What is a business major” workshop as an undecided freshman at UNI. As soon as they said I’d have to take macro- and microeconomics I was like, “Peace out!” I was so grateful to be asked back. My talk was for young high school women from all over the state to give a small business entrepreneurial voice to their conference. My freshman business-no-thanks self wouldn’t believe where I am today, and that’s okay. It’s okay to change. Key Takeaways * Yes, there is a Spotify playlist. * Leadership for me has never been big or grand, it was often leading in small ways and listening to that small voice that wondered “What if?” * All I Want Is You: When the lead on my junior high dance team was injured I had to take the front position with little warning. It wasn’t a big deal, it was just a job that needed to be done. * “I can lead others by leading myself” * Yellow: Leadership camp at UNI was such an impactful experience for me. Over the course of a week we learned so much and met so many new friends. There were literal tears when our parents picked up. * Jeopardy: I was given the coveted role of FFA Sweetheart as a high school senior which came with the “honor” of providing treats for the 100+ members at each of the remaining meetings for the year. My departing speech was unconventional, but all in good fun. Just because something has always been done one way doesn’t mean it has to stay that way forever. * You Can’t Always Get What You Want: I was devastated to not get the scholarship I needed to attend my first pick college. This song played on the radio at work after I got the hard news. * Fancy Like Applebees: Laugh all you want, but Applebees was THE hoppin’ place to work in Cedar Falls. I wanted to be a waitress, and I wanted to work at the busiest restaurant in town. Food service taught me SO many people skills. I was able to lead in this position by training others (Which came with a whopping $5 per hour wage AND a free meal!). * Reading Rainbow: As a new teacher I struggled with students cramming easy books for easy quiz points. I wanted them to love reading for reading sake. I put out a call on this new thing called Instagram and Facebook for classroom books and collected 500 by the end of the semester! This taught me that rallying people around a cause can help achieve growth. * Mama Says: It’s okay to change. I became a stay at home mom. Yes, I was a passionate educator, but changing my career doesn’t change the passion I put in to that career. “I thought this for a long time but now I learned differently, learned better, and so I’m going to move in that better path.” * Video Killed the Radio Star: “The story of how I creatively avoided cold call fundraising with my mad video skillz.” But seriously, I was involved in a capital campaign for a childcare center in our community. When the time came for cold call donations I just. could. not. We made a video campaign showing how the current center just wasn’t working and sharing our vision for the future. It was a huge success! * Bo$$: I started my own business that absolutely could have stayed one-to-one service-based forever. Instead, I used all the lessons from all of my leadership roles before to now lead a team of people. A secret to my success is that I didn’t keep secrets. I offered free weekly trainings to help small businesses understand more about social media marketing. * “Leadership isn’t just putting yourself up on a pedestal. Turn around, see who’s walking behind you, and give them a hand, so they can do it faster, better, and more efficiently than you did.” * “The best leaders are not the ones who keep all the secrets to themselves, they’re the ones who help others elevate too.” * Change (Taylor’s Version): Change starts with the question: How can we do this differently? As I focus on my words of 2023, Profit and Pruning, I’m asking that of myself. You’ll notice some changes coming to the podcast as I prune back to just two episodes per month until August, alternating a solocast with a guest interview. I’ve also let go of pursuing a physical storefront in my hometown after I got honest about my long term goals.
Connect Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Listeners, you are in for a treat with today’s guest on the Found podcast. Karoline Rose Bohannan is a multipassionate entreprenuer and rancher in Montana. Her mission is to provide space and resources for cattlewomen and people in agriculture to ensure that operations continue for generations to come. Get your pen (or, in Karoline’s case, a pencil!) and paper because her business mind had me floored. You can tell a few times in the recording that I am totally tongue tied by her creative ideas! Key Takeaways * Karoline comes from an agriculture-income family in Montana. Health challenges made college at Kansas State difficult, so she moved home and completed an animal science degree at Montana State. When it came time to accept a job, she realized she needed to work for herself. She wanted to work hard, just not for someone else, so she started selling cattle under her own company. * Her first summer after college was rough, but she had a break selling cattle through social media in just seven minutes. Eventually seed stock companies approached her and she now does full service marketing. * Karoline has three main branches of business: Full service marketing and design through KRose Company, education through Cattlemen U, and Rancher’s Daughter, a farm to table resale store. * As an Enneagram 8, Karoline is a challenger and loves a fast pace. * Being busy for 8 hours is not the same as working for 8 hours. Do the hard hard work. * “It takes on average 21 times for someone to see your work before they exchange money with you” * Sales is different from marketing. If you are getting rave reviews from your clients but business is down, it is time to seek out more clients. More people need to know who you are and what you sell. * Karoline is active in her community with belly up marketing: Volunteering and being involved where people can see you in person and shake your hand. * EOS (Entrepreneurship Operating System) has been a game changer. * Karoline is eager to learn and seeks input from her team. She says if you have integrity and are hungry you will do well. She is always going back to core values. * Coming soon: Karoline is launching a personal brand and planner.
Connect with Karoline Find Karoline’s personal brand on Instagram which has links to each of her business branches.
There are just not enough Tuesdays in March to showcase all of the kickass female business owners I wish I could. This week’s episode features SIX of my business besties. We have been on a Voxer group chat together since the beginning of 2022 and I am so grateful to have the support of these women in my life. I know you’ll love them too. Meet the Badass Midwest Business Babes (We don’t have a formal name, so that’s what I’m going with today!) * Lindsy Trotter of Chilled Freezer Meals in Center Point Iowa. She’s been in business five years and sends freezer meals all across the country (and just up the road to Cascade!) * Sheila Hansen of Sheila Hansen CPA who has been helping female business owners understand their numbers and make confident business decisions for seven years. * Erika Hermsen of Sweat Inspire Sisterhood, an online fitness and nutrition community set to open its first brick-and-mortar this year. * Marissa Hoffman, co-owner of The Midwest Girl, a shop with THE BEST apparel and goods with Midwest appeal. * Maddie Peschong, a personal brand photographer, coach, and host of the Take It Personally podcast. She also rents out studio space to Souix Falls, South Dakota photographers through White Space Studio. * Michelle Myers who creates all the good smells for her company Dirt Road Candle Co.
Connect Connect with each of my business besties through the links above. Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey listener! This week on the Found podcast I’m so fortunate to sit down with Whitney Kinne and discuss all things fulfillment, intention, and purpose. You know I’m all about that, but Whitney still fills the episode with fresh ideas and advice. She and her husband, Shane, coach professionals on finding the perfect role for them based on their values. She is just a wealth of information and I know you’ll get a lot out of this professional who truly cares. Key Takeaways * Whitney did our interview from her baby nursery (like, the one she was actually a baby in) turned home office. Her career pivot from higher education to coaching came from a desire to return to her rural roots and live in alignment with her values. She and her husband, Shane, coach individuals and lead team trainings to help people reach harmony between work and family. * “Show some leadership:” What started as ordering her own ice cream as a four-year-old became a mantra for Whitney to have courage. She says everyone is a leadership isn’t always a big bold move, and little ripples can have big effects. * Whitney encourages everyone to evaluate where they can lead: “Where can I have influence and where can I have leadership in the teams or family that I’m a part of?” * “Moms are like a thermostat in the home” * The first step of coaching with Whitney is asking: What works? What isn’t working? What matters to you? * Whitney doesn’t just list values, she identifies actions that demonstrate that value. She checks in on her actions regularly. * Whitney loves working with her husband and appreciates their message coming from a male perspective. Audiences respond well to a man sharing his values of living life with purpose which is a message usually shared by women. * Whitney says it’s important to establish a routine for checking in with a coach. * “Don’t mistake movement for progress”: Whitney cautions to evaluation if your actions are truly serving your larger goals. * What is your first tactical step? Get on LinkedIn if you aren’t already, and use something other than your current job title in your bio line. Reach out to Whitney and Shane for coaching using the contact information linked.
Connect with Whitney Connect with Whitney on LinkedIn, follow on Instagram, and learn more about coaching on her website. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey listener! This episode has me FIRED UP and my typical Key Takeaways format for podcast notes won’t do it justice. Check out my blog for a full breakdown of this statistics-heavy episode. Sources include: * More than a million women have left the workforce. The Fed needs to consider them as it defines ‘full employment’ (Fortune) * Women in the Workplace 2022 (McKinsey & Company) * ‘It’s a huge concern’: Senior-level women are calling it quits after decades climbing the career ladder (CNBC) * Child care providers can be hard to find and costly in Iowa. Here’s what you need to know (Des Moines Register) * Women in Iowa 2022 (The Iowa Department of Human Rights’ Office on the Status of Women)
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Oh man, listener, you are in for a treat. I’m so delighted to welcome Emily Reuschel on the podcast today. Emily focuses on habits, change, and the seasonality of life. I so appreciate that she is open to honestly discuss the struggles and downs of life, especially with her focus on rural women. I’m so proud to give this episode to the world. It’s a message I needed and is filled with such hope. Key Takeaways * Emily grew up in a small community near St. Louis, studied education, and worked for a time as a teacher. She now lives in rural West Central Illinois with her family on her husband’s family farm. * Emily’s mission is to bring together rockstar women from small towns and help them get clear on what they actually want with tools, habits, and a support system. * “If we want cool stuff to happen in our small towns someone has to stand up and do something different that’s never been done before.” * Emily loved teaching and surprised herself by leaving just two weeks before the start of a new school year. She worked as a program director at the YMCA and is so grateful for the experiences she had there. She found herself feeling burned out and had a sense of outgrowing the opportunities available to her and she set out on her own health journey. * “I am a girl mom now and I need to figure out what it looks like to love myself into feeling better than I feel.” * As part of her health journey Emily put together a Facebook group of family and friends to focus on habits. That grew into You Do You 82, her habit support community. Based on her own personal habits, she went from a non-runner to completing a half marathon in six months. * “You don’t always have to be reaching for more, just reach for intention” * “A lot of times we look at more as accumulating accolades or accumulating material things or accumulating accomplishments and knowing that you’re made for more is really like knowing you’re made for more than just showing up and being a passenger in your life” * Emily has been open about her mental health journey after she had a feeling of being surrounded by goodness but cracking from the inside out. She sought therapy and is honest about the hard work that comes with unpacking past traumas. * “There is going to be lightness and goodness and freedom in digging in to the other side of this crap and getting on the other side.” * “If we are the generation that’s asking ‘am I feeling fulfilled’ I think we are also the generation that says it’s ok to get help when you know you need it”
Books we mention * The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan * Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Connect with Emily Emily offers her You Do You 82 community for free. She has a podcast, Gather in Growth. Learn more about Emily and her retreats on her website and follow her on Instagram (her stories are so good!)
Hey there, listener! I’m sure you have heard that you can either spend time or money, and I’m focusing on that sentiment today. Time is your most precious commodity and in this week’s quick solocast I’m sharing what I do to buy back time in my business. Invest in education (programs, courses, workshops) * You can save time by learning from a program or course rather than learning everything yourself. * In my early days I invested in The Social Media Marketer Society for a year and found it to be very helpful for that state of business. * I loved Allie Reeves’s Hashtag Like A Boss training. It was just 90 minutes but PACKED with value. * I did NOT love an email marketing workshop course I signed up for. I ignored the weird tingles and red flags. Don’t do what I did!
Implement systems and softwares in the backend of your business * Set up as many systems as you can to prevent having to make decisions or lose time finding documents and communication. * I share some systems for how we get this podcast to your ears and how we work with our Done For You clients * Software my team uses: Clickup, Slack, Dubsado
Invest in people * Have other people get you where you want to go quicker * Shoutout to my AMAZING virtual assistant Megan! She specializes in admin tasks in is such an amazing part of my team. Virtual assistants can be generalists or specialize depending on your needs. Definitely do a vibe check before bringing someone on board! * Speaking of VAs, they are so helpful and are a great resource when a full employee isn’t a good fit yet. * Consider outsourcing to a specialized contractor like a coach.
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hello listener! I’m so pumped to bring you THE Jillian Murphy to discuss all things sales and business. Like all of her free content, this podcast is packed with value and encouragement. Jillian brings 20 years of sales experience to online businesses through mentorship and educational materials. She’s killin’ it with just three years in business for herself and prides herself on amazing results for her clients too. Key Takeaways * Jillian considered herself a corporate “ride or die” and absolutely loved the career she built from entry level. She was devastated by job loss in 2020 but immediately picked herself up and started her own business. * Eight weeks prior to her layoff she attended a Mastermind with Chris & Lori harder. She turned to a business coach they suggested and started applying her sales experience to mentoring. * Jillian recommends staying with one coach and staying laser focused. “Every time you start over, you are literally starting over” * Jillian recommends an open cart/closed cart sales strategy. Open cart closed cart “When you are always available there’s no sense of urgency to buy” * Jillian has been burned by shiny object syndrome. A poor business coach experience led her to scrutinize business coaches more carefully. She says to ask if the wins they are sharing are from clients, or is it always all about them? She says “A ton of my clients make more than me,” and she couldn’t be happier. * Jillian has an amazing social media presence. She wants to be top of mind at all times and achieves that with daily value-packed posting. She points out that if people are winning with her free content, imagine what they could win by working together! * How does she come up with all of the ideas for content? She is constantly adding to her notes app questions she gets throughout the day from clients, masterminds, or in podcast interviews. Those questions become content. * Jill encourages us to USE social media instead of just scrolling: “This is the power of being social on social media”
Connect with Jillian You will love all that Jillian has to share on Instagram. Follow her links to learn more about her Facebook groups and current offers. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey listener! Thanks for joining me on the Found podcast this week. I know it’s February already, but I still think it’s a good time to reset. I feel like I spent all of January inundated with everyone else’s ideas of how to start the year. Now that we made it through the first month, I’m ready to consider what I want Q1 to look like for my clients and me. This episode will focus on marketing trends I’m leaning in to this year. Key Takeaways * “Social media marketing, when done correctly with intention for personal brands, puts you in the driver’s seat and you can compete with big names.” * You don’t need to have a huge following for a huge impact and successful business. * Link to podcast episode with Nicole Kerns of Hillhouse Diaries * “The reason social media was founded in the first place and really took off was that it connected people.” * Clients demand more now. They expect the convenience that big brands offer along with a personal element. * Social media is not just trending, it is necessary. * Gone is perfect, polished, and precise. The most effective ads you have interacted with you might not have realized were ads. * You don’t have to do it all, pick the platform that matches your vibe and meshes well with your business. * I’ve been harping on this for years, but now more than ever: “People are the cornerstone of social media and marketing for 2023”
Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey, listener. I just love this week’s guest, and if you don’t already, you will after this episode. Nicole Kerns is a small town Iowa mom known for her DIYs shared with hundreds of thousands of Instagram followers. She seemed so approachable that I got the guts to DM her and invite her on the show. I’m so thrilled to have her, and yes, she is exactly as awesome as she seems on social media. Key Takeaways * Nicole Kerns is a small town Iowa mom of three and self-taught DIYer. She has a mega following, deservedly so, through Hill House Diaries on Instagram and TikTok. * Nicole was looking to bring back her identity after years as a stay-at-home mom. She was familiar with Instagram as a consumer but a friend encouraged her to dive in to content creating. She made the goal to inspire others to “just go for it” even if they were scared or nervous. * Nicole encourages people to dive in, get messy, and try. Don’t wait for the step-by-step tutorial to get something done perfectly, because everything is fixable. * From both a strategy and community building standpoint, Nicole says (and I agree!) that followers especially like the not-so-polished stuff. In Social Media 2.0 people are invested. “Day in the life” story series have been very popular for Nicole. * Nicole works with a manager and virtual assistant. She says she’s willing to hire someone to help than “have a phone constantly in front of my face.” But she reminds us she didn’t have the help to start, and it’s something you can work towards.
Connect with Nicole Find Nicole and links to all her socials on her website. She likes Instagram best and has recently started TikTok. Connect with Molly Find me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hi Listener! If you’ve been around here awhile you have caught on that I’m not always straight laced and professional. I was getting ready to speak once and had to describe my target audience. The best I came up with was like, a teenager business, you know? You can’t be a little baby business, you have to know some things. This totally clicked and was such a great way to describe those growing pains we all experience in business. Today’s podcast is just me sharing the stages of business with this child development analogy. I hope it helps you to be kind to yourself and find support for whatever stage you find yourself in. It’s not super in-depth, just a loose framework, but I think you’ll see yourself in one of these stages. Key Takeaways Baby Business * These are those survival years! It’s time to learn the very basics. If you’ve seen a baby learn to walk, you know they’re going to fall flat on their face a few times. But they pick themselves up and keep trying! * I spent a long time in the baby stage as an accidental, even reluctant, entrepreneur. I had a lot of time to play and try new things. I was able to learn from my mistakes and try new things. * My journey seeking supplemental income is going to look a lot different from someone seeking startup funding or already working with a team! If you can’t spend too much time learning from mistakes, consider getting a coach on board to guide you through.
Teenage Business * “Okay, I have all of these things that equip me but who am I really? What is the identity that I want to hold?” * You are a little more established and confident and it’s time to make big life decisions. * You’re finding boundaries and pushing limits.
Young Adults * This is me: “I’ve tested things. I’ve broken a lot of shit.” * I’ve learned that I can’t stay out all night without paying for it the next day. There are consequences for my actions and I have to do some un-fun stuff too. * According to LendingTree.com, 18.4% of private sector businesses fail in the first year, 49.7% after five years, and 65.5% after 10. * It’s ok if businesses grow and change! Maybe they took a “gap year” or retrained for a new career. Growth keeps happening. * Think of businesses you admire: They all went through tough phases too, we just might not have been paying attention.
Connect with Molly Reach out to me, Molly Knuth, on Instagram and Facebook if your young business could use some caregiving (aka mentoring!) through those younger years. Follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey listener! I can’t wait for you to fall in love with today’s guest, Jill Carr. I knew she’d be a fast friend when we first connected on Instagram (with a voice memo, of course! A girl after my own heart!) After our first zoom call I knew I couldn’t keep her to myself and had to invite her on the podcast. Key Takeaways: * Jill Carr helps rural women extend their voice with podcasting. She offers a variety of services to launch, manage, and grow podcasts. * Jill lives with her family on a ranch in the Flint Hills of Kansas. Before launching her own company she discovered podcasts on her 40-minute commute. She became a virtual assistant in 2018 and focused in on podcasting in the last year. * Coach Kiah was a VA client and became Jill’s first podcast. Jill was hooked! In 2021 she went all in on niching down into podcasting. * Jill discusses the challenges of being a mom-treprenuer. She originally became her own boss to have more time with family, but realized it was easy to overextend herself. She learned better boundary setting. * Jill says to always remember your “why” by revisiting it every day. It’s important to have boundaries and systems. * Jill shares three big reasons to consider podcasting. * + It’s so accessible and is always where your audience is. You can take it along with whatever else has to be done like mowing the yard or doing dishes. + Connection is the biggest piece of podcasting. You can network with guests, share your voice, and position yourself as an expert. It is so great for building community. + Jill says podcasting is the best long-form content tool. You can repurpose content with reels, email newsletters, and blog posts. * Jill mentions Emily Reuschel of the Gather in Growth podcast * Why bother podcasting when there are millions already out there? Jill says the numbers are deceiving: Only 53% of podcasts produced more than three episodes, 12% have released a new episode in the last quarter, and only 7% in the last month. This leaves fewer than 300,000 “competitors” but remember non all podcasts are for your ideal listener anyway. * It’s fun to begin but episodes 10-20 are hard! Stick with it and dig in for the long haul. Invest in technical help if you need to.
Connect with Jill Find Jill on her website or connect on Instagram Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey listeners! This interview has been a bear to schedule but was SO worth it! We finally got our time zones aligned for Kylie Kelly to join us on The Found Podcast. Kylie is a business coach specializing in helping moms have the maternity leave they want and maintaining a healthy balance after baby. Hosting a virtual summit helped build her social media community from scratch, and now she helps others do the same. Key Takeaways * You’ll figure out quickly that Kylie is from Australia. Although Australia offers better maternity leave than the United States, where most of Kylie’s clients are from, moms trying to balance career and kids is a struggle everywhere. * Kylie is mom to two boys and had wildly different maternity leave experiences with each. She wants to prevent women from experiencing a leave like her first, and plan a leave on their own terms. Kylie loved her second maternity leave and returned to work feeling ready. * Kylie worked as a wedding photographer before 2020 when Covid caused her clients to cancel. She reexamined what she wanted in a career and felt a tug toward helping moms, especially entrepreneurs, plan for their maternity leaves. * Kylie started with an Instagram following that was completely related to her wedding photography. She built community quickly by hosting a virtual summit for expecting mothers. Her first summit had 350 attendees! * For her next summit, Kylie had 500 attendees. She had 42 speakers over five days and limited them to 10-15 prerecorded minutes. Having sessions rerecorded allowed Kylie to love on attendees and build community. * Kylie’s social media strategy is to focus LESS on strategy. She pours most of her energy into her podcast, which she loves for its worldwide connection. She loves to send direct messages and voice memos on Instagram. She feels much more fulfilled and has seen better results by focusing on relationships. * Kylie is offering access to a free podcast series to build your social media audience. You can find her podcast This Mama Means Business on Spotify.
Connect with Kylie Find Kylie’s website at KylieKelly.com or connect on Instagram. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey everybody! I’m so excited for the first episode of the new year! The 365 days ahead of us lay out like an open book. How do we do this life ahead of us? Are you, like me, visualizing what could be? This episode focuses in on what we can be doing now to nuture our best year yet as entrepreneurs. 2022 was a great year for me, but had a lot of internal struggle. I’m excited to start 2023 in a more intentional place and I hope this episode helps you join me. Key Takeaways * I prefer intentionality over goal setting. James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, says for some, the goal setting process becomes empty when the goal is achieved. Life really begins after the goal. * I had a six-figure year, and, newsflash, I didn’t fundamentally change. “What really changes us is who we are being in the process of attaining that goal.” * I’m focusing on how I want to feel as I go through my year instead of external goals. “How do we want that success to feel along the way?” * I like to ask myself “What would future Molly do?” In a guided meditation with Kelly Brock of Peaceful Performer I had a clear vision of the Me of 2023. I was so peaceful and totally present in the moment! I’m working on making that vision a reality. * 1. Identify and record how I feel. Write it down and solidify it. 2. I need to audit my life to identify things that give me more of that feeling and get me closer to that woman I visualized. “If I want things to be different, then I need to be different.” 3. I need to give myself grace, margin, and LOTS of reminders. I’m remembering that baby steps are ok!
- All the best, and blessings in the new year!
Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey Listener- can you believe we reached the final episode of the year? It’s a solocast after a fall chock full of interviews with amazing female guests. I hope you enjoyed the interviews as much as I have! I hope you enjoy this episode too. I’m recapping the year: The wins, the challenges, and proposals for a new metric to evaluate our year… In ways OTHER than wins and challenges. The Wins * I checked a big item off my 100 goals list: I bought a building! When I first started MKM I knew my mission was to highlight small towns and give businesses a voice. This milestone was a way to “put my money where my mouth is” and invest in my small town. (Link to the episode about the building) * I became a six figure business owner! There’s a big difference between revenue and profitability, but this is still a huge win and personal goal of mine. * I redefined the brand and focused in on my why (Link to Mariah Danielson episode). * “Some Years give you questions. Other years give you answers.” Zora Neale Hurston * I took a master class with Melanie Ann Layer and adopted some practices like slow mornings and taking time to enjoy the flexibility I built into my business.
Challenges * Keeping my vision was a challenge and I really struggled with big existensial questions this year. * I only had two hair cut/color appointments this year. Ha! My hair isn’t important here, it’s that I hustled too hard much of the time and lost sight time for my self, friends, and family. * Profitability was a challenge. Inflation kicked everyone’s butt this year, and it, among other things, was hard on my business too.
Things contributing to growth * I worked on developing my leadership skills * I looked for places where I can be proactive instead of “living my life as a response” * I embraced my status as a “teenager business” after my VIP intensive with Sheila Hansen.
New metrics for reflecting on our year * When did I feel stupid happy? * When did I feel at peace? * When did I fulfill my calling (or, when did I think, “Holy shit, this is why I do what I do”) * What was a moment of clarity? * A moment you knew you needed to change something? * A moment you realized time is fleeting? * A moment you realized you are in charge of yourself? * A moment you realized just how frickin’ lucky you are? * A great book? * A great movie? (Or Netflix series, shout out to Bridgerton!) * A great friendship started this year? * A project you finished and were so proud of? * Best and worst purchases? * Best and worst courses? * Big mistakes made? * Big moves made? * Best workout? * That big brave thing you thought you wouldn’t do?
We made it! I hope you find peace and rest this holiday season and wish you a very happy new year! Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Listeners, I’m so pumped for this week’s podcast guest. If you’re a long time listener of the show, or at least for the last year, you know that I feel so strongly about energy work. I had the opportunity to cross paths with Erin McGuire at the Empower Her Summit this year and knew I had to share her with this audience. Erin is a coach and energy healer through her business Pure Light Healing. And if you’re not sure what that means, join me for an enlightening episode. Key Takeaways * First things first. What is an energy healer? “I free people to be who they really are because trauma makes you out of survival- it makes you live out not out of who your true self is.” Erin emphasizes the importance of listening to your subconscious. * Erin says her younger self would “never in a million years” believe her life path, but that her life was changed by awakening to her inner sensitivity. * Erin says that “yoga was her gateway drug” into the life of healing she leads today. She earned her yoga certification in 2010 and is a reiki master, reiki master teacher, and life coach. * After studying theta brainwave healing for a few years, Erin reached a point where she just couldn’t keep it to herself anymore. She started casually helping people and eventually built it into her career. * Erin suffered from depression, anxiety, and chronic fatigue, but did not find help in typical therapies. Doing deep conscious work, shadow work, and inner child healing brought her healing. * A helpful visual: Erin says your subconscious is like a hoarder house, filled with old patterns and belief systems you’ve picked up in life. We might not even be aware of what we are holding onto that could be holding us back. * Erin shares the connection between our thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and actions. Why are you procrastinating? How were you feeling that led you to procrastinate? What thought drove that feeling? * On manifestation, Erin says “Simply, just, we create what we think about.” And, "You will get more of whatever you focus on”
Mentions * The book Eat, Pray, Love * Holistic Psychologist * Nervous System Reset Program * The book The Body Keeps The Score
Connect with Erin Erin shares most frequently on Instagram and is also on Facebook and TikTok. Find her website at Pure Light Wellness.
Hey there, listener. Join me while I sit back and super fan over today’s podcast guest, Whitney Sullivan. At one point I stop and suggest I pay her for a therapy session because she is just that good! We also geek out over our shared interest in (obsession with?) enneagram types and Ted Lasso. Whitney is a motivational speaker and leadership coach based out of Bozeman, Montana. She has a great personal story as a small business owner and has great advice to share. Whitney is a wealth of knowledge and a gift to us listening. Key Takeaways * Whitney is a motivational speaker and leadership coach who focuses on topics of connection, purpose, and resilience. She loves coaching new leaders. She is also a certified life coach, enneagram coach, and spin instructor. * Whitney spent ten years in higher education and saw herself spending her career there. But the pandemic and changes to her job caused burnout and left her looking for a change. * Whitney has been in business for herself for about a year, after an 18-month process of making the switch. “Sometimes it looks like people are making these changes and they just happen overnight but so many things happen behind the scenes before you see the results of those changes.” * Leaders are important: “70% of employee engagement is based solely on the manager” * Whitney reminds leaders to Celebrate. Thank. Praise. “People want to be cared about” * A mistake leaders make is not delegating and taking on too many tasks. “We’re here to lead action, not take action” * People want to be useful and hoarding opportunities can be harmful. Team members see “I can help you all because that’s strength but I can’t accept help so that’s weakness”
Resources * Closing the Confidence Gap by Kelli Thompson (Whitney’s sister!) * Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown * Five to Thrive by Enneagram Type
Connect with Whitney Follow Whitney on Instagram. Schedule a discovery call and learn more about her services on her website. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey there, listener! This week on the podcast we have Brooke Happe of B. Happe Designs (like “Happy.” What a perfect name!) I’ve followed her for a long time and am a big fan of her hats and RV lifestyle. When I finally got to work with her this year I knew she HAD to be a podcast guest. Brooke’s story is so cool. How often do you meet product-based business owners who travel the United States in an RV while homeschooling their three children? Brooke manages this while staying committed to her mission of giving back. I’m so excited to have Brooke share her story and way of life. Key Takeaways * Brooke is behind Be Happe Designs, a lifestyle brand known for amazing hats, a mission of giving, and RV life inspiration. She is also a homeschooling mom to three children. * Brooke left practice as a Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2016 to stay home with her young children. She picked up crochet to keep her hands strong and was “hooked.” * She received many compliments on her slouchy hats and friends encouraged her to sell them. She did local markets and always donated one hat for each hat sold. * After a health crisis with her son in 2018, Brooke learned that many of the toys and supplies for child life at Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines were donated. To keep up with demand of her hats, and to give back in a way that was meaningful to her family, she started donating a portion of profits to the hospital. She still does this today. * Brooke pitched the idea to sell everything and travel. The flexibility of her husband’s work (even pre-pandemic) meant they could live anywhere near an airport. After a 26-day trip to Florida to test the waters, they knew this was the life for them. They’re still traveling full time three years later. * Brooke loves how RV living has modeled for her kids to follow their dreams and think outside of the box. Her once-shy kids now make friends easily. * Brooke says their unique lifestyle brings some challenges, but overall brings the family together and allows them to pick what brings them joy. She regularly shares great tips for overcoming the challenges and embracing the positives on her blog.
Connect with Brooke Follow Brooke on Instagram. Find her amazing hats and blog through her website. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Hey there, listener! I’m so giddy and literally fan-girling over this week’s guest, Laurel Smith of Laurel Denise. Laurel started her creative business back in the “dinosaur days” before social media. Guys. She literally had to CODE A WEBSITE. (That stuff just boggles my brain!) Her business has had to make many pivots over the years, and she takes us through that journey in today’s podcast. We had good intentions of talking marketing, but ended up having a great chat about self doubt, learning in real time, and embracing change. This one is going to need a part two! Key Takeaways * Laurel started her business, Laurel Denise, in 2005. While unhappily working as an investment banking assistant, she had a dream of making jewelry. She became obsessed and worked to make her dream a reality. * We chat about how 2005 was a different time: Blogging was new, social media wasn’t a thing, and websites meant CODING! There weren’t examples of creative business owners like we see today. * Laurel worked nights and weekends on her jewelry business and used her vacation days for trade shows. She quit her day job in 2008 to pursue jewelry making full time. * It took Laurel having a team of eight people to accept that she was a “real” business owner. * “There are these mental blocks that we have, these mindset shifts that we have to make in order to get to what our next level is” * Laurel enjoyed making planners but felt like she had to choose, and she chose jewelry. Her business took off “in Covid times” when people were looking for encouraging, inspirational gifts. * The busyness of her business made Laurel crave her planner, and she started printing them again. I (Molly) love her planners. She says she makes it for her and how her brain works, but plenty of people must agree! * Her planner really took off in 2020: “If we sold out of this when no one had plans… What?!” * Switching from jewelry to planners was “a torturous decision” but led to new opportunities… and challenges. Laurel shares how shortages and supply chain issues devastated her and how she showed up authentically for her customers. It was a great learning experience for her. * “I’m not playing around with this planner thing anymore and if I’m going to be a planner and a paper goods business, how does that business run? What production schedule are they on? So that this literally never happens again.” She’s already designing 2024 covers!
Connect with Laurel Laurel’s Instagram is such a delight, I love “Pattie the Planner Girl!” She has a website and private Facebook group as well. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
I started this year knowing a change or shift was coming. I found myself overcommitting by starting self-help books and courses that I haven’t finished, thinking maybe THIS is the shift. I’m closing out the year feeling uneasy with all of these open loops. My message to myself and my listeners is this: Close those loops. Imagine the loop of a roller coaster (even though I don’t like roller coasters!). We are going up, approaching the most exciting part that’s a little scary. If we get off right then, we never experience that excitement or the resolution that comes afterwards. If you are like me, you have several open loops and lots of unresolved fear and excitement. Join me in taking time to close those loops and close out the year in a more peaceful place. We’re doing things a little different at The Found Podcast this week of Thanksgiving 2022. Each day this week, I will be delivering a new mini podcast straight to iTunes or Spotify to give you a short burst of inspiration in what we’re calling Exponential Growth Week. For the next 5 days you’ll get a 10-20 minute episode with immediately actionable tips that you can apply to your social media, marketing strategy, energy, 2023 planning and more. The purpose of this week is to ground us as business owners and entrepreneurs to evaluate where we’re feeling good about our businesses and where we may need to make some adjustments in this season of business and Social Media 2.0. To help us prepare for the new year, I’m leading a masterclass on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 11 AM CST inside a private Facebook Group so we can break down the elements and energetics you need to know for Social Media Marketing 2.0. We’re calling it Marketing Must-Haves Masterclass, and you can go to Mollyknuthmedia.com/masterclass to request to join the Facebook group and get all the details as we get closer to the training date. Exponential Growth Week Episodes: * Monday, 11/21: Are You Proactive or Reactive? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jQvdMjSQaU&t=7s ) * Tuesday, 11/22: What is Really Working on Social Media Right Now…and Why the Answer May Surprise You (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uP37pxmOaw&t=284s) * Wednesday, 11/23: Has Social Media Marketing Gotten Harder? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc2yjUypWbY) * Thursday, 11/24: How to Show Up on Social Media When You Don’t Feel Like It (video version available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPR-JgzVp5A) * Friday, 11/25: Close the Loops (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10cum4CVEpo)
Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
If you don’t feel like posting, to put it simply, don’t. Your audience can feel the energy you bring to content creation, and you want to bring your best. It’s totally okay to take time to be present in your real life, or to take a break for a season. Do what you can to care for yourself to bring yourself up to a higher energy. Rest, connect with family, journal, etc. Instead of creating content during this time, spend time interacting with similar accounts, interacting on profiles of people who follow you, responding to DMs, or sharing user generated content. As a solopreneur, YOU are your business. Although it is stressful to manage allthethings it is important to care for yourself. You are you business’s number one asset! (And, regardless, you are an amazing person deserving of care.) We’re doing things a little different at The Found Podcast this week of Thanksgiving 2022. Each day this week, I will be delivering a new mini podcast straight to iTunes or Spotify to give you a short burst of inspiration in what we’re calling Exponential Growth Week. For the next 5 days you’ll get a 10-20 minute episode with immediately actionable tips that you can apply to your social media, marketing strategy, energy, 2023 planning and more. The purpose of this week is to ground us as business owners and entrepreneurs to evaluate where we’re feeling good about our businesses and where we may need to make some adjustments in this season of business and Social Media 2.0. To help us prepare for the new year, I’m leading a masterclass on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 11 AM CST inside a private Facebook Group so we can break down the elements and energetics you need to know for Social Media Marketing 2.0. We’re calling it Marketing Must-Haves Masterclass, and you can go to Mollyknuthmedia.com/masterclass to request to join the Facebook group and get all the details as we get closer to the training date. Exponential Growth Week Episodes: * Monday, 11/21: Are You Proactive or Reactive? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jQvdMjSQaU&t=7s ) * Tuesday, 11/22: What is Really Working on Social Media Right Now…and Why the Answer May Surprise You (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uP37pxmOaw&t=284s) * Wednesday, 11/23: Has Social Media Marketing Gotten Harder? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc2yjUypWbY) * Thursday, 11/24: How to Show Up on Social Media When You Don’t Feel Like It (video version available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPR-JgzVp5A) * Friday, 11/25: Close the Loops (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10cum4CVEpo)
Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Not necessarily harder, but definitely more complicated. Remember social media is just one element of a marketing strategy. I encourage you to consider six components. Strategy: Have steps or a plan of what you want social media to accomplish for your business. Content Creation: I find a content calendar helpful in visualizing how to put my strategy into practice. Management: Some folks like to create in real time but it’s convenient to use tools to schedule your content ahead of time. Community is key. Consider the conversations you would have at a coffee shop or checkout counter. Bring that energy to your social media. Show that you understand there are people on the other side of the screen and not just customers. Leverage: Use tools like ads, collaborations, giveaways, and tagging to grow your audience. Legacy: Social media is always changing. Consider what legacy content you have to share. For a brick-and-mortar shop, using social media to direct people to shop in person is your legacy. Social media can direct people to your email list, your course, or your online shop. Focus on legacy content to weather whatever changes social media has in store. We’re doing things a little different at The Found Podcast this week of Thanksgiving 2022. Each day this week, I will be delivering a new mini podcast straight to iTunes or Spotify to give you a short burst of inspiration in what we’re calling Exponential Growth Week. For the next 5 days you’ll get a 10-20 minute episode with immediately actionable tips that you can apply to your social media, marketing strategy, energy, 2023 planning and more. The purpose of this week is to ground us as business owners and entrepreneurs to evaluate where we’re feeling good about our businesses and where we may need to make some adjustments in this season of business and Social Media 2.0. To help us prepare for the new year, I’m leading a masterclass on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 11 AM CST inside a private Facebook Group so we can break down the elements and energetics you need to know for Social Media Marketing 2.0. We’re calling it Marketing Must-Haves Masterclass, and you can go to Mollyknuthmedia.com/masterclass to request to join the Facebook group and get all the details as we get closer to the training date. Exponential Growth Week Episodes: * Monday, 11/21: Are You Proactive or Reactive? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jQvdMjSQaU&t=7s ) * Tuesday, 11/22: What is Really Working on Social Media Right Now…and Why the Answer May Surprise You (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uP37pxmOaw&t=284s) * Wednesday, 11/23: Has Social Media Marketing Gotten Harder? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc2yjUypWbY) * Thursday, 11/24: How to Show Up on Social Media When You Don’t Feel Like It (video version available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPR-JgzVp5A) * Friday, 11/25: Close the Loops (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10cum4CVEpo)
Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
I started this mini episode with a reflection of who I was as a junior in high school and how completely different I was a college freshman. I’ve grown and changed many times over, as you have too. It’s normal and GOOD to change and evolve. Social Media is going to do that too. We need to roll with the changes as social media and digital marketing evolves into “Version 2.0.” One thing that hasn’t changed is the people on the other side. People can see through posts just meant to sell. Next time you are creating content, consider: What does the person on the other side of the screen need? How can my business provide a better product or service for them to live a more convenient, accessible life? Authenticity always works. Exponential Growth Week: We’re doing things a little different at The Found Podcast this week of Thanksgiving 2022. Each day this week, I will be delivering a new mini podcast straight to iTunes or Spotify to give you a short burst of inspiration in what we’re calling Exponential Growth Week. For the next 5 days you’ll get a 10-20 minute episode with immediately actionable tips that you can apply to your social media, marketing strategy, energy, 2023 planning and more. The purpose of this week is to ground us as business owners and entrepreneurs to evaluate where we’re feeling good about our businesses and where we may need to make some adjustments in this season of business and Social Media 2.0. To help us prepare for the new year, I’m leading a masterclass on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 11 AM CST inside a private Facebook Group so we can break down the elements and energetics you need to know for Social Media Marketing 2.0. We’re calling it Marketing Must-Haves Masterclass, and you can go to Mollyknuthmedia.com/masterclass to request to join the Facebook group and get all the details as we get closer to the training date. Exponential Growth Week Episodes: * Monday, 11/21: Are You Proactive or Reactive? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jQvdMjSQaU&t=7s ) * Tuesday, 11/22: What is Really Working on Social Media Right Now…and Why the Answer May Surprise You (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uP37pxmOaw&t=284s) * Wednesday, 11/23: Has Social Media Marketing Gotten Harder? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tc2yjUypWbY) * Thursday, 11/24: How to Show Up on Social Media When You Don’t Feel Like It (video version available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPR-JgzVp5A) * Friday, 11/25: Close the Loops (video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10cum4CVEpo)
Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
We’re doing things a little different at The Found Podcast this week of Thanksgiving 2022. Each day this week, I will be delivering a new mini podcast straight to iTunes or Spotify to give you a short burst of inspiration in what we’re calling Exponential Growth Week. For the next 5 days you’ll get a 10-20 minute episode with immediately actionable tips that you can apply to your social media, marketing strategy, energy, 2023 planning and more. The purpose of this week is to ground us as business owners and entrepreneurs to evaluate where we’re feeling good about our businesses and where we may need to make some adjustments in this season of business and Social Media 2.0. To help us prepare for the new year, I’m leading a masterclass on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 11 AM CST inside a private Facebook Group so we can break down the elements and energetics you need to know for Social Media Marketing 2.0. We’re calling it Marketing Must-Haves Masterclass, and you can go to Mollyknuthmedia.com/masterclass to request to join the Facebook group and get all the details as we get closer to the training date. Exponential Growth Week Episodes: * Monday, 11/21: Are You Proactive or Reactive? (Video version available here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jQvdMjSQaU&t=7s )
Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook. Or follow Molly Knuth Media on Facebook and Instagram.
Welcome to our FIRST second-time-appearance guest episode! This one is super special because Andrea Mausser was my first ever guest back in 2020 when this was the Small Minded podcast. We’ve both grown so much in those two short years, so it is cool to catch up! Andrea Mausser is a mindset and transformational coach through her business Choose Your Journey. It is her first year to be full-time self-employed, and I am so impressed by the success she is finding when she practices what she teaches. She’s so inspiring to me personally, and I know our listeners will agree. No notebook and notes for this one, just sit back and receive what Andrea is sharing today! Key Takeaways * Andrea is a certified Life and Health Coach through the Healthcoach Institute and launched her business, Choose Your Journey, in April 2020. (What a time, right?) She left her corporate career in January of this year to devote her career fully to coaching. * Andrea describes her work as “Teaching adults how they are actually unconsciously placing blocks on what they want to be experiencing.” * How many of us can related to Andrea’s description of the average career? “How much can I be on this hamster wheel and still feel like I’ve not lost it” * Andrea and I both like to choose a word of the year, and Andrea’s for 2022 was “Alignment.” * Mindset matters: “What you think about you bring about” * Focus on experiences over outcomes: “It’s not about the doing, it’s who I was becoming in the journey” * Andrea helps us visualize our inner struggles as the ego and the higher self. The ego’s job is to keep us safe and in our comfort zone but the higher self is abundant and willing to do what’s best in the long term, even if it’s really scary right now. * It’s hard to slow down! Especially as entrepreneurs we feel like we have to work hard and HUSTLE to be successful. Andrea emphasizes the importance of rest and being open to receiving and attracting. * THIS dilemma: We women often go into working for ourselves for the time freedom but can easily be overtaken with urgency and drive. Andrea reminds us to slow down and fill our days with the important things first. * Working hard doesn’t always pay off financially: “If that was in fact true and the hardest workers were the most successful, made the most money, then teachers, nurses, and farmers would be the richest people here in the United States.” * Andrea shared experiencing the law of compensation, being financially awarded in work that you do when it’s purposeful, with her “Pick Your Price” structure for a recent offering. * Andrea encourages us to account for our energy and try to add energy giving people and experiences to our day. * Andrea is offering a 4-week destress December challenge to close the year and is committed to ending the year in a relaxed space. * One more great quote: “We have this Amazon mentality we think it’s going to happen in two days. We have to let go and surrender the how, what, and where.”
Mentions * Manifestation Babe Podcast with Kathrin Zenkina * Melanie Ann Layer * The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks (Book) * Mind Your Business Podcast with James Wedmore
Connect with Andrea Follow Andrea on Instagram and Facebook. Learn more about Andrea, her offerings, and sign up for her email newsletter on her website. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook.
Hey listener! Welcome to another episode of the Found podcast. I’m so excited to bring Mariah of Wander Design Co to the podcast. (Although, why has it taken this long!?) Mariah and I go back a ways to when we were put together in a breakout group at the Empower Her Summit. She’s a great friend and a highly recommended Instagram follow. It MIGHT seem like I stalk her feed, but it’s just so good! You’ll see why she’s awesome in our chat today. I’m so inspired by her Why and grateful for the wisdom, spark, and energy she shared in the episode. Key Takeaways * Mariah Danielsen got her start in graphic design and has grown to offer branding, website design, mentoring for creative women, and why discover through her business Wander Design Co * Mariah studied graphic design and marketing and worked her way up to leading a graphic design team for a company. Meanwhile, she started blogging about vintage and indie weddings, which lead to exposure on bigger blogs and speaking engagements. She got a sinking feeling that corporate wasn’t where she wanted to be and quit to pursue her own interests ten years ago. * She was doing graphic design, blogging, offering vintage wedding rentals, wedding planning, and running an antique shop when she had her second child and realized it was A LOT. She narrowed her focus back to graphic design. * “Everything builds on top of each other and the more you can make these conscious decisions in the right direction, there’s no telling what your life can end up becoming.” * Mariah had the opportunity to travel to New York to attend Marie Forleo’s B School in 2011. She met Simon Sinek and learned about Start With Why. * + Marie Forleo B-School + Simon Sinek Ted Talks + The Golden Circle on YouTube * What is our Why? This is our purpose and how we operate at our natural best. What are we striving for? How do we want to impact other? Your Why statement is your overarching theme for life. * “If you could wake up and be the absolute best version of yourself, what contribution would you make to the world and what impact would it have on other people in the best way possible” * “Your why is only as strong as you can share it with others” * “It’s a waste to spend your time working on projects that drain you and are going to put you in a bad mood for your family when you get home, or if you feel like you have to work on the weekend so you can finish this project that you don’t enjoy anyway, it’s just not worth it.” * Mariah says setting long term goals is more difficult now, but it’s due to her confidence in her Why: “I know I am on a path and as long as I can build other people up so they can confidently put themselves forward, I’m happy.” * Mariah’s is a big fan of the Showit design tool for Wordpress sites (me too!) and recently had her work published in their anthology, Spark.
Connect with Mariah You’ve got to follow Mariah on Instagram. You can learn more about services on her website. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook.
Hey listeners! Welcome back, especially to those of you with service-based businesses. In this podcast I share strategies for packaging and pricing your offers. Ugh. Did your stomach drop? Pricing can be a vulnerable topic, and I’ve shared my discomfort about money conversations in the past. I’m happy to be much more confident now, and excited to share my answers to this common question. Key Takeaways * This topic is taken from my Business Bootcamp module. Find out more about Business Bootcamp at MollyKnuthMedia.com/shop * I have a distinct memory of deciding what to charge for what I could do with who needs it. I felt raw, nervous, and too big for my britches. My pricing was based on an hourly rate for what I expected my package to entail. * My britches weren’t sustainable! After awhile it was necessary to update my pricing to reflect my expertise and efficiency. * Consider opportunity cost when pricing. Time you are spending with a client is time you’re NOT doing anything else. Same for the client. Time they are getting by hiring you is time they can be doing anything else that could make them more money. * Ask yourself how much time you are saving the client. What do they do to earn the money to pay you? What do others in your industry charge? * Avoid the comparison game, but it is a nice general guideline. * Resist the urge to be driven by fear, scarcity, and powerlessness. * Build an offer suite with your middle-of-the-road flagship offer, at least one upgrade, and at least one more affordable option. * You’re the boss! You get to decide! There are not rules. You make the rules. * Think about quality, not quantity of offers. Like… Louis Vuitton, not Dollar Tree. * Your pricing should be as unique as you are!
P.S. My episode with Sheila Hansen on Money Mindset is so valuable if this is a topic you struggle with! Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook.
Hey there and welcome to this week’s episode of The Found Podcast! Today I’m chatting with my longtime social media friend and recent real-life friend, Maddie Peschong. Maddie is a photographer turned brand photographer and coach. She’s just so sweet and authentic which really comes through in this week’s interview. Her advice is simple and straightforward, and she shares strategies you can apply today to uplevel your own personal brand. So let’s dig in to this interview! Key Takeaways * Maddie has been a photographer for ten years and changed her focus to branding exclusively in the last 18 months. She summarizes her business to say she takes the photos that help people grow. * Maddie has an interesting career path that has followed her big energy. She studied journalism in college and worked for some big brands before returning to Sioux Falls, South Dakota. She worked at a marketing agency while building her photography business up to full time. * She loves when clients look behind the camera and see a whole new version of themselves. * Ironically, Maddie says brand photography isn’t for everyone. The daily things you do to connect are important too! * Maddie says choosing between how you show up online for yourself and what your audience needs from you is a Venn Diagram. You need to be in the intersection of both. * Personal branding allows business owners to change their minds: “Personal branding is based on people and people change.” * Maddie discusses her Three Rs: Reputation, Rapport, and Relationships. Her new group coaching program, Rebrand, focuses on these essential elements of a strong personal brand. * Two things you can do for your personal brand today: Take some time to imagine and journal your ideal business. A little simpler: Give Instagram stories a try. * Maddie mentions Suzy Holman and the podcast Normal Gossip as some personal brands she likes to follow.
Connect with Maddie Learn more about Maddie on her website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram. And listen in to her own podcast: Take It Personally on iTunes or Spotify. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook.
Hey friends and welcome back to the Found podcast! I’m still lovin’ the rebrand and hope you are too! Today I’m talking about a newer concept, and even if you haven’t heard of the exact term, you know what it is. Thought leadership. Think about who you go to, whether in person or virtually, when you need someone to teach you something or give advice. Those people are thought leaders in their community. And you may not realize it yet, but I believe we are all leaders in our own way. P.S. with the podcast rebranding I’m feeling a little more myself so my barn mouth might slip an f bomb. Key Takeaways * I attended a Hannah Nievess Consulting masterclass to work towards my goal of becoming a thought leader. * “Thought leadership is what differentiates you from all of the people who do what is you do.” * Position yourself to get found by your ideal audience * “Be THE go to in your industry not just AN option * I found the Why Discovery workshop by Miranda Danielson of Wander Design Co to be so helpful in establishing my touch tree. No matter where we pivot we can always ground ourselves in our why. * My why is “Helping women in small towns rewrite and redefine what it means to live and work here.”
Steps To Becoming a Thought Leader * Find your why and deep goal. * Very specifically define who you most want to help though products and services. * Break down your specific tactics, approach, and perspectives that utilize you best. * + Think about those things you love that are common to you, but that other people might not know. For example, I LOVE Flodesk for my email list marketing and management. + Get a little meta about your day to day and document it * Create content that shares with your ideal audience. * + At this moment in October 2022 swipeable storytelling carousels in Instagram are performing well. See my Samantha American Girl post or the story about shaving off my eyebrows (and not for the first time).
“Our products and services won’t always reach our ideal audience at a time that works best for them to enroll or buy. But. When we present them with unique perspectives or a memorable story or fascinating results, we will be at the top of their mind for the time is right for them to make that purchase or make that investment.” Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook.
This week’s episode of the newly rebranded pod features my exceptional new friend, Ingela Onstad. Ingela is a high performance coach who helps professionals work through mindset issues to show up as their best selves in the public eye. She has great insights for us to reflect on how our mindset is supports our success. Key Takeaways * Ingela is an accomplished opera singer and has travelled the world performing. * A divorce led her to ask the big questions about life. She had always been “that friend” who was everyone’s volunteer therapist, so she pursued it professionally. She earned her Masters in counseling and became a therapist. * Ingela practiced traditional talk therapy but followed her gut to adapt her practice. Because of her active freelance career, she worked with many high performers. She transitioned into more of a future-focused coaching role. * Ingela spends a lot of time getting to know someone and understand the greater landscape of their life. She helps her clients accomplish goals and look forward to future achievements. * Therapy and coaching helps people understand that they are normal and not weird for feeling how they do. * Ingela helps her clients manage anxiety by recognizing negative self talk patterns. She’s not a fan of positive affirmations but helps her clients through journaling, routines, rituals, and accepting that it’s ok to feel uncomfortable. * “Emotions are like the rainbow, we can’t wish away the colors. They’re all going to be there in some way.” * Ingela references Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the human need for love and belonging. Fear of rejection is baked into our biology. * We are probably familiar with fear of rejection, but many people, especially women, fear success as well. “We get caught on the tightrope of I don’t want to fail, but I also am afraid of being too big and too bold and shining too brightly.” * Women are socialized to make others feel comfortable before themselves. They might have societal concerns about success, like being the breadwinner in their heterosexual relationship. * Books Ingela recommends: Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware and Mindset by Carol Dweck * Coaching is important because you can gather all of the tools and strategies in the world, but nothing will happen if you are terrified of the next step.
Connect with Ingela Follow Ingela on Facebook and Instagram, or contact her through her website for a consultation. Follow for More Follow me, Molly Knuth on Instagram and Facebook.
Well, what do you think? I’m so excited to share the podcast rebranding with my beloved listeners. Earlier this year I was struggling to set my intention or word of the year. Which is telling in hindsight. I eventually went with shift, which has characterized this year perfectly. Over 100 episodes and two years later, the podcast is ready for a shift. This is NOT a big 180. It’s more like a 10-degree shift. I still love small towns, small businesses, and the stories we tell. But I’m feeling much more of a pull towards female business owners and honing in on the importance of energy, effort, and balance. In this week’s episode I’m sharing that lost feeling I felt, how I worked (and am still working) to overcome it, and practical strategies I hope you can use too.
The "call after the call" with guest Nina Gibson was so good we had to record just a little longer...plus a special secret from Molly Knuth about changes coming to the podcast!
Hey, listener. I had the best time with my new friend Nina Gibson for this week’s podcast episode and it definitely came through in the recording. Meeting Nina on Instagram was like finding my soul sister. From a commitment to helping female entrepreneurs, to being a little “woo,” this girl speaks my language. I love the way Nina speaks and how she is so open and sharing of herself. I think you’ll love her too! Key takeaways * Nina is a “total beach bum” from Southern Maine where she lives with her family * Nina has been working with SEO since 2009. She started working for herself when she became a mom in 2014. * Nina said she was running on “not even empty.” Her whole background was hustle. She was miserable with zero boundaries. Then, in 2019, after some serious burnout (including shingles!), she changed her business model to focus on small business entrepreneurs. * “Are we going to remember that Mommy worked all of the time but we were able to have nice vacations?” * Nina learned a lot from Holly Haynes’s mastermind (Holly on Instagram) * Nina hosts the Elevated Visibility Podcast (Apple Podcasts) * “SEO is the original internet hype girl” * Nina has is launching her Visibility Club Membership this October * “You just need a person you trust and vibe with and understand to help you do it simply” Molly * 77% online users read a blog every day * Keyword research and understanding is THE most valuable part of SEO * Nina learned about energetics with Ash McDonald (Ash on Instagram) * “Follow through bitch!”
Connect with Nina Find Nina at her website or on Instagram Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey everybody it’s Molly digging into marketing strategy Love long term planning aligning marketing with business goals Grab notebook and pen What you want to talk about, how, and balance it with what feels right energetically Ho Ho ho three hoes in the house Harness energy, own strengths Hoarding content and organizing it Humanized marketing Outlining plans Ho ho ho here we go 1. Lean into energy
Pursue one of the following assessments: Personal development intertwined with business ownership Exploring who you are as a person Three tools: Enneagram Truity Human design Jovian archive Sacred Money Archetype Denise Duffield Thomas money mindset coach denisedt instagram Talents? Shadow types? Own strengths Lean in, incorporate into marketing Part of day get lost in good flow of work “I fucking hate this” Getting in to my inbox Outsource, va, contractor Omit? Lean in that feels right to you and clients Hoarding Don’t start from scratch or reinvent the wheel What content went well? Looked back at last year Facebook posts Personal photos and videos Be analytical so you don’t have to start from scratch Reuse and repurpose Organize Get a print out calendar How many posts? Long form content? Get main priorities Sometimes feel like post to start or blog post about whatever I want Keep priorities the priority helps organize other things around it Focus on what is the most important Document roll outs, events What do I have time for? Humanize Strategy? quantity? tactical? Focus on people Reflect Anecdotes Throwbacks Ways you feel good? Feel seen, Deeper than surface level How can you show up as a human as social media? Outline Start with content you already have Fill gaps with new content
Listener, I am SO excited for you to hear this episode today. I cannot even believe I manifested this. I have the privilege and honor to welcome my mentor and friend, Allie Reeves. If you follow Small Minded, Allie has probably also been on your radar because I am always sharing her posts and stories! She is truly someone who is an inspirational mentor to women. Allie is so purpose-driven! Her mission in life is to show what women can do in business and to coach other women to find her level of success. In this episode she shares her approach to how she hit huge milestones for herself without compromise of her health and family. She is truly an inspiration. If you haven’t heard of Allie yet, listener, prepare yourself. This episode, not kidding, is life changing. Key Takeaways * Allie’s mission is to help women grow businesses they are obsessed with, especially in online spaces. Her big mission is to show that women can be and have it all, however they define it. * Allie started her own social media business in 2016 because she couldn’t find a job! Her business grew quickly with great, high-paying clients. But even with hitting 10K months, she felt burnt out. * Allie shifted her brand and started over from scratch to build a business teaching women how to do social media. Her brand has since grown to encompass business strategy, mindset, and life. * She sold nothing in her first eight months and ended 2018 at -$5,000! But she learned, grew, and ended 2019 at + $190,000! * Even though her business was successful she started to have the same burnout feelings. She gave herself permission to try something new, trust herself, and have fun in 2021. * Allie is my mentor, and she mentioned her mentor, Melanie Layer. * Allie has so many words of advice! One I love is “Play to win, don’t play NOT to lose.” * Allie shared her daily activating ritual: She keeps a page of her journal where she lists everything she is working toward and reads it every day. Then, daily, she writes down her gratitudes, current successes, and the challenges that are making her into the better version of her. She writes down who she is choosing to be, how she will show up, and how she will feel. * 2022 has been her best year yet! She had her first six-figure month this last July!
Connect with Allie Allie is most active on Instagram. She also hosts the podcast 6 Figure Influencer. Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Welcome back, listener. I sat at my desk trying to record the episode I had planned for like, 40 minutes, but it just wasn’t happening. I had the framework and everything but I just couldn’t make it stick! I sat quietly and an idea came to me. It’s not super polished, but I like to chat, and I hope my intended message comes across. Key Takeaways * I’ve been learning a lot about masculine and feminine energy. So much of how we structure business, school, and professionalism is “masculine.” (Like me willing myself to do the episode I had framed out! Go through those notes!) But we need to all have a balance of masculine and feminine. * Feminine energy allows us to relax, reflect, and look inward. We need that too! * My episode wasn’t working because it didn’t feel right. It wasn’t authentic. My audience could have felt those energetics there. It wouldn’t have worked, no matter if I forced my way through. * Where do you push that feels like a grind? Like something you have to do? Maybe that’s your invitation to slow down and reflect. * I give some background on my small business story. When I was first starting out, the simplest things felt so magic! But after a few years, it became same old same. I leaned too much into that masculine energy of strategy! * If you are just looking at the likes and open rates, you’re missing the point! You have so much intimate knowledge of your demographic that big businesses don’t. That’s special! Make room for the magic! The relationships! * I mention the Empower Her Summit where I got to meet up with 120 women that I know in real life through the power of social media! * We can’t just have statistics and strategy, but we can’t have just relationships either. We need a balance of energy. * My episode was super quick and not so polished, but I hope you read to do what feels really good, and follow your energy!
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Hey there listener! I’m so happy to introduce you to Jamie Gavle of Rendered Unique in Decorah, Iowa. She is just the sweetest person and is such a great example of the kind of women I like to highlight here on Small Minded. The way she lifts others up and just LOVES her small town is so inspirational. Jamie is the owner of Rendered Unique, a truly handmade home decor boutique that features work from 30+ makers from the Midwest. In today’s episode she shares her journey of building her business from a little pop up to the community happy place it is today. Key Takeaways * Jamie has been married to her husband Joe for 10 years and they have two daughters aged 10 and 12. * She grew up in a small town in Northwest Iowa and loved being close to family and both sets of grandparents. But at 18, she couldn’t wait to get out and experience the world! * Jamie studied Apparel Merchandising, Design, and Production at Iowa State University. She graduated on a Friday. On Monday morning, she and a friend moved to Minneapolis with an apartment, no job, and all of their belongings in a hog trailer! * She loved the big city life but wanted to return to small town living when her daughter was born. A job offer for Joe took them to Decorah one week after her oldest was born! * Inspired by what her friend Allison was doing in The Cities, Jamie started doing pop up shows and loved it. Soon Rendered Unique was all she could think about! * Jamie started renting her space and was open one weekend a month. She decided to leave her job in administration at Luther College in March 2020, planning to open full time in April. She made it ONE popup before Covid hit and she was closed for eight weeks. But the Decorah community continued to support her business by shopping online. * Rendered Unique now has four employees and 30+ vendors! Jamie is always open to “keep pivoting” and loves that her makers have become friends. She’s in full fall mode and looks forward to taking each January off to regroup and go to market.
So many favorites to mention this episode! * Doe a Deer * Midwest Girl * Dirt Road Candle Company * Aesthete Modern Clay * Skrapwork * Allison Marie Design * Impact Coffee
Connect with Jamie Shop online at RenderedUnique.com, follow on Facebook at renderedunique, or on Instagram at @rendereddecor Molly Knuth Media Fall Offerings I know it’s hard to do allthethings as a small business owner, especially going into the fall. How can the team at MKM help? Reach out for tactical hands-on support, admin, graphic design, and more. Or, if you’d prefer, we can chat strategy to be sure the marketing you’re doing on your own has a plan and path. Reach out to hello@mollyknuthmedia.com for more. Are you more of the DIY type? Consider Social School! Social School is our signature program at MKM where we share what’s working RIGHT NOW in social media. You can join for one month or get a special offer when you join for the rest of the year. Learn more in the shop at mollyknuthmedia.com/shop Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey there listener! I’m so happy to introduce you to Jamie Gavle of Rendered Unique in Decorah, Iowa. She is just the sweetest person and is such a great example of the kind of women I like to highlight here on Small Minded. The way she lifts others up and just LOVES her small town is so inspirational. Jamie is the owner of Rendered Unique, a truly handmade home decor boutique that features work from 30+ makers from the Midwest. In today’s episode she shares her journey of building her business from a little pop up to the community happy place it is today. Key Takeaways * Jamie has been married to her husband Joe for 10 years and they have two daughters aged 10 and 12. * She grew up in a small town in Northwest Iowa and loved being close to family and both sets of grandparents. But at 18, she couldn’t wait to get out and experience the world! * Jamie studied Apparel Merchandising, Design, and Production at Iowa State University. She graduated on a Friday. On Monday morning, she and a friend moved to Minneapolis with an apartment, no job, and all of their belongings in a hog trailer! * She loved the big city life but wanted to return to small town living when her daughter was born. A job offer for Joe took them to Decorah one week after her oldest was born! * Inspired by what her friend Allison was doing in The Cities, Jamie started doing pop up shows and loved it. Soon Rendered Unique was all she could think about! * Jamie started renting her space and was open one weekend a month. She decided to leave her job in administration at Luther College in March 2020, planning to open full time in April. She made it ONE popup before Covid hit and she was closed for eight weeks. But the Decorah community continued to support her business by shopping online. * Rendered Unique now has four employees and 30+ vendors! Jamie is always open to “keep pivoting” and loves that her makers have become friends. She’s in full fall mode and looks forward to taking each January off to regroup and go to market.
So many favorites to mention this episode! * Doe a Deer * Midwest Girl * Dirt Road Candle Company * Aesthete Modern Clay * Skrapwork * Allison Marie Design * Impact Coffee
Connect with Jamie Shop online at RenderedUnique.com, follow on Facebook at renderedunique, or on Instagram at @rendereddecor Molly Knuth Media Fall Offerings I know it’s hard to do allthethings as a small business owner, especially going into the fall. How can the team at MKM help? Reach out for tactical hands-on support, admin, graphic design, and more. Or, if you’d prefer, we can chat strategy to be sure the marketing you’re doing on your own has a plan and path. Reach out to hello@mollyknuthmedia.com for more. Are you more of the DIY type? Consider Social School! Social School is our signature program at MKM where we share what’s working RIGHT NOW in social media. You can join for one month or get a special offer when you join for the rest of the year. Learn more in the shop at mollyknuthmedia.com/shop Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Creating Visibility & Awareness for Your Next Offer Hey there, listener! You’re going to want a pencil and paper for this one. I’m answering one of my most frequently asked questions. How do I get MORE * People to see my content? * People to hear my message? * Sales? * Clients? Leads on clients?
I’ll take this episode to share five ways to create visibility and awareness around your next offer. It’s not just tips and tricks this time! Short term wins are great, but long-term awareness around your business and brand is our focus today. Key Takeaways * If you’re on the go and can’t take notes, grab my free printable checklist here https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62fd7479a72e507348a31c3b
Define * First, define this thing you need more exposure around. WHAT is it? WHY is it worth featuring? HOW will followers reach your product or service? Do a big brain dump of everything you can think of related to these questions. Get clear about the problem you want to solve and the people you want to serve.
Format * Consider all of the potential formats OTHER than social media to get the word out. What about podcasting- either on your own or as a guest? Speaking of being a guest, is there someone you could pair with to do an Instagram stories takeover? * Create in-person brand awareness. I have my business logo on my vehicle, for example. I gifted my clients an MKM tumbler for their birthday. It helps to keep you on their mind!
Long form first * Yes. I, social media strategist, am telling you that long form is the place to start. Create an evergreen piece of content like a blog post or email newsletter to anchor your outside social media. It’s okay to only update once a month, but have something there. It’s your place to connect on an emotional level.
Where can you share? * Ask yourself who you could tag to increase visibility. Maybe it is an organization that benefits from your product * Just be a person, honestly. Interact genuinely with others on your feeds and channels.
Hacks! * Okay, so I squeezed some quick tips in. I know my listeners love those! * Share to your personal social media. I don’t do this often, so when I do, it’s a big deal! * Jump on a trend if it fits your product or service. I loved the recent “Little Miss” memes. If that’s to cutesy for your brand, leave it. * Carry a business card. * Reach out and ask for a collaboration. Shoot your shot! (Omigoodness guys, I did this recently and have SUCH a great podcast guest coming up!)
How can I help? * Sign up for Social by MKM! You can participate one month at a time or join for the rest of the year for a great rate. This September we’re focusing on getting your business ready for the holidays. * Sign up for Social at mollyknuthmedia.com/shop * Reach out with an Instagram DM!
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Welcome back to the podcast! You know I’m a bit woo. Give me all the angel numbers, the astrological signs! I want to know everything about who I am and how I can show up as my best self! Earlier this year I learned about human design and I learned So. Much. about myself, why I do what I do, and why things happened how they did. Cue our guest, Kristin Kilburg! She was a guest presenter in our June business school and I just had to go back for a personal reading. What a gift! This is so meaningful and I think you will agree! Key Takeaways * Kristin is from Cascade and now lives in LaMotte. She is also a yoga instructor! * Kristin discovered and fell in love with Human Design from a Facebook group conversation and has taken further training to learn everything she can. * Human design describes how our energy works. For Kristin it described how she always felt but struggled to explain. * Human design helps you understand how you can help the world with your own unique gifts. * Kristin recommends using the site Jovian Archive to get your basic reading. * Your human design chart will have a lot of numbers, symbols, and colors that take a lot to understand! In this episode we focused on three main items: Type, strategy, and authority. * Type is how your energy presents you to others. * Strategy is your path of least resistance in the world. * Authority is your decision making process. * I am a manifester which makes so much sense! I love to help people, explain, teach, and bring people together. Kristin is a reflector which is super rare! * Human design is important for business owners to understand how to spend their energy and what to outsource or hire out. * As a parent, the best thing you can do is to understand yourself before getting a read on your kids. Kids usually know best because they haven’t been conditioned by the world yet! * Kristin offers one-on-one readings for adults and would like to help children and small businesses too. * Kristin suggests the podcasts Day Luna and The Psychic Scoop for more information.
Connect with Kristin Kristin is working on a website and scheduling platform! For now, reach out on Instagram. Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey there, listener! Just a heads up before we start today. We have some exciting changes coming! We’re going through a divergence of businesses (Yes, that’s with an S!). The Small Minded Podcast might have a change in name or maybe a new social handle. We’re still sorting out the details. But just so you know, the content you expect is going to continue! We’re down 100 episodes and we’re not going anywhere! Today we’re talking tactical business strategies. Something even more foundational that what you would think of as the basics: Getting an EIN, registering an LCC, or setting up your first bank account. My business boot campers know this one because it’s in my first week of training. We’re talking ENERGETICS! Key Takeaways * Small business dreams are made of the hallmarks of vision, energy, and hard work. * This can feel “woo woo” but you’ve experienced it: Love and joy at a wedding reception or someone who did a terrible job reading their audience. * We can’t always raise our energy to bright and rosy colored, but we must at least seek neutrality. * I made a business offer earlier this year that was personally a stretch. I was being my own negative voice! I said things like, “If that doesn’t work it’s totally ok” or I directed contacts to a less expensive service. I totally self-sabotaged by putting out bad vibes. * I do much better when I’m having a shit ton of fun like with reels or music videos. * We all have cycles of energy and that’s ok! * You don’t have to be bright and rosy all of the time, but be aware of how your energy is affecting others. Do your best to come up to contentment. My go-to strategies are listening to great music, walking in nature, or getting a hard ass workout in!
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Hey there, listener. I’m trying something new this episode and sharing a previously recorded live presentation I gave earlier this year. It’s just me and my big paper! I’m sharing the process I use to plan and implement change in a way that feels RIGHT. It can be hard to trust yourself! I hope this episode and the strategies I share empower you to make business decisions that feel right. Key Takeaways * It is hard to know what shift to make whether slight or major! It’s easy to feel all by yourself! My method is to write it out with my Big Paper Moment. * When my brain is buzzing with ideas I crank the music, clean my house, and fill out big poster-sized post it notes with random ideas. * It’s important not to filter yourself! Don’t let your subconscious get in the way! * People who have been to business school call this a SWOT analysis: Get honest with your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats. * But… don’t focus too much on your competition! * The SHIFT model came out of my coaching with Allie Reeves: Select, Heighten, Identify, Follow Through (do the damn thing!) and Test.
Podcast Episodes Mentioned * International Small Towns with Magdalena Schurmann * Small Business Finances with Janey Stahl
MKM Business School School is in session, my friend! MKM business school is for the female small town business owner in years 2-7 of her business. She’s established and needs guidance to grow! When should you add to your team? How are you setting boundaries? Find a circle that can elevate you to create something that lasts. Business school includes * Monthly guest professor visit on a focus topic * Two monthly office hours with a service provider * Monthly hotseat for members to come together and build relationships * Access to the ENTIRE MKM video training library * Access to our business service provider directory
DM me on Instagram or sign up with an email to hello@mollyknuthmedia.com with the subject line “MKM Business School.” Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Here we are, friends! We’ve reached the 100th episode! Like… HOW??! I wanted a special way to celebrate this milestone and polled the team. So for today’s podcast, I have a mix of… * How I got started and what I learned * Top performers and hidden gems * Future plans!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, listeners. Not just for listening, but for your feedback, emails, and messages of support. I love getting messages about episodes that hit you in the feels! It keeps me going and I couldn’t have reached this episode without your encouragement and support! Key Takeaways * I was a fresh little green business owner in 2017: Never took a business class, and CERTAINLY didn’t have a degree! I binged the Momentum podcast and loved the 10 minute action packed episodes. The algorithm pegged me and kept suggesting more and more valuable content. Seriously, so much of my business knowledge is from the School of Apple Podcasts! * I ordered my podcast microphone a full year before my first episode! * Most podcasts last only nine episodes! I went into this knowing the value of momentum and consistency. The name, the niche, the launch… That’s just the foothills! * I took Jenna Kutcher’s podcast course and applied everything I learned to get started! * I knew consistency would be important so I scheduled 2-3 months in advance to minimize summer recording. Summer is nuts around here! * Find support! Honestly a podcast is a lot of work and I knew I wouldn’t be able to do it all on my own! Consider hiring out for editing or marketing if it will keep you behind the microphone. * Podcasting does NOT have a quick turnaround. Three months in, I had about 300 downloads a month. Six months in, I questioned whether I could keep going. My accountant gave good guidance. Maybe I couldn’t trace my success exactly to my podcast, but it was a valuable investment in the know, like, trust strategy. It’s an important lead generator and it’s important to me to be of service to others. * The last six months have had half of my lifetime downloads! * It took 30 episodes to figure out my equipment and find my voice. * Four of the top five episodes were from March 2022! Where are they now? * Callie Fitzgerald was riding the high of her first three months in business and is now offering amazing summer programming at Centrally Rooted in Dubuque, Iowa. She’s added art, painting, and brought in teachers from all over the country. Her flagship curriculum, Mindful Musicians, will be offered in two area schools this fall! * Lauren Welter’s episode about mental health in small towns brought the most messages EVER. Many people praising the normalization of mental health and folks asking for Lauren’s contact information. * Other popular episodes included Let’s Get Woo Woo, Melissa Nelson, and Do I Need a Business Coach? * You guys. My worst podcasts were definitely my “Teen Years.” It was past the bubble of my friends listening to be nice but I hadn’t quite caught on to a wider audience yet. Go back and give them a listen! * I don’t think I’ve “made it” to be at episode 100! I’m hanging on to be the cream that rises to the top. See you at 300! * Molly Knuth Media and the Small Minded Podcast are going through exciting changes! We’re morphing into a small business hub of resources and support! We might rebrand in the future, but we’ll be here offering high value content week after week. * Just in case she edits it out, a HUGE thank you to my podcast editing superwoman Miranda Ostwinkle. I seriously couldn’t have done this without her!
Follow for more * Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook * Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey listener! Today’s podcast guest and I go back a few years. We only met once in person, but wow, is she ever an amazing person. I’m so glad to know her, even if it is mostly virtual! Linley Cavin is the owner and artist behind Storied Folk and Company, an apparel, drinkware and modern paper goods company. She has moved back to her hometown and runs her company from her home. You might know her from Matted Ink, her first business, but she rebranded to envision a brand that gave back. Wow, guys. She has quite the inspiring story to help you understand the people she wants to help. Sure, we talk a bit of shop but a lot of our conversation today revolves around Linley’s incredible journey to parenthood. Grab the tissues, it’s the first episode that made me ugly cry! Key takeaways * Linley Cavin grew up in Protivin, Iowa, where her family has a hog and row crop farm. She vowed to get away and she did… for awhile. She studied at Iowa State University and lived in Des Moines for a while. * Linley worked at an advertising agency startup and loved it as a first job. When she and her husband moved to Williamsburg, Iowa, her new job didn’t use the graphic design she loved. She started her business, Matted Ink, and launched on Etsy. * As her business and desire to start a family grew, she took the leap to full time with her business. With her husband working long hours as an agronomy salesman, it was important to them to have a parent with more flexible hours. They also made the move back to Northeast Iowa. * Linley has moved away from Etsy and built her own website to promote her own brand. (I’m so guilty of saying “I got this on Etsy! instead of identifying the maker!) In addition to her own website she sells wholesale to more than 175 (!) retail locations around the country! * All of this was going on as Linley and her husband worked to start a family which was such an amazing journey. * After trying for a year, the Cavins sought medical intervention at the University of Iowa. When moving back to Northeast Iowa, she transferred care to Minneapolis where she had two failed rounds of IVF. She transferred care to Chicago and suffered another failed round. * She stepped back and looked at other options from adoption, to choosing not to have children. It took a huge toll on her mental health. In December of 2019, she sought egg donation. * Linley describes grieving for her genetics and coming to terms with how, although she would carry her baby to term, they would not share her genetics. * This process works! Linley is a mom to a son after her July of 2020 egg transfer was successful. * Linley has rebranded to Storied Folk & Company: Inspirational Goods Made With Purpose. She donates 3% of sales to support infertility support and resources and has a donation button on her website. * All of this to say, Trust the Journey. It inspired a new just-launched t-shirt design that you just have to see.
Connect with Linley Shop her website or follow her on Instagram. Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey friends! Thank you so much for being here for this week’s Small Minded Episode. We’re digging in and I’m ready to deliver a little more on the business side. This episode is short and sweet but I hope you find it value-packed. Key Takeaways * Usually when someone approaches me to share they’re thinking about starting a small business, they are thinking about a logo or website. Those things are important, but it all comes down to four main things.
People will pay you for what you are good at. * I used to moonlight as a wedding singer but never charged much. I was good at it, it didn’t take much time. But I learned to charge for the value I offered! * Think about what you have paid others to do. Someone is willing to pay you! * People don’t have the skills or bandwidth to do things you perceive to be easy. It’s the little things they outsource first.
Your skills and talents are unique. * Not everyone knows how to do the things you find so, so simple!
You don’t have to be fancy to be good. * I should have charged more earlier, but I didn’t realize how unique I was. I just posted what I wanted to know and learn. Now I know it’s called content marketing. But it got great results for my clients! * If you have a small, service-based business, you should promote your own business AT LEAST as much as the businesses you serve.
Your mindset and energy matters. * Think beyond “a little side gig” and give your business the respect it deserves! * Any time I have felt a nagging that my business needed to change, the thing to change was me. I recently had to flip the script to think of myself as the leader of a team instead of someone on the team doing the work.
Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook MKM Business School School is in session, my friend! MKM business school is for the female small town business owner in years 2-7 of her business. She’s established and needs guidance to grow! When should you add to your team? How are you setting boundaries? Find a circle that can elevate you to create something that lasts. Business school includes * Monthly guest professor visit on a focus topic * Two monthly office hours with a service provider * Monthly hotseat for members to come together and build relationships * Access to the ENTIRE MKM video training library * Access to our business service provider directory
DM me on Instagram or sign up with an email to hello@mollyknuthmedia.com with the subject line “MKM Business School.”
You guys. My cheeks hurt from laughing and smiling so much with this week’s guest, Jenny Roth of Jenny Roth Copywriting. She is such a super mom, wife, and PERSON. Today, though, our talk centers on her small business as a copywriter. She has great experience to share as a small business owner as well as copywriting tips FOR small business owners. We’ve been “DM friends” for awhile but this is our first time chatting in person! I loved our chat and I know you will too. Key takeaways * Jenny lives in a rural South Dakota town with only 300 people. (Rural like 45 minutes from a Walmart rural!) Her husband farms grain and cattle and they have three girls, born within four years! * Jenny was a stay at home mom and even homeschooled until a few years ago. She started to wonder how she could contribute to her family’s income in the little pockets of time she found. * She started by writing one article each month for a magazine and later moved up to editor. People started approaching her for writing help and her business was born. * Jenny’s focus has always been her family although she feels a little guilty for admitting it. Her first goal was to make just $200 per month to put her girls in dance lessons. * Jenny struggles with indecisiveness but realized “You can do things scared.” * Her biggest business challenges are taking on too much and keeping everything balanced. * Jenny realized that hiring copywriters to work under her made her an editor, which she doesn’t enjoy, so she switched to hiring copy editors instead. * In the future Jenny would like to help others get started in copywriting.
Some copywriting tips from Jenny * Copywriting is to connect customers with businesses who solve problems. * Copywriting is anything you write that connects to your customers. * Copywriting should have your voice. Write it for you first, then edit it for your reader. Read it back out loud to see if it sounds like you! * Avoid “word salad” copy. Be very specific!
What a copywriter can do for you * Learn your “voice” to create copy that sounds like you would speak * Do a target audience deep dive with market research * Give your words a fresh set of eyes
Connect with Jenny Find Jenny on Instagram @jennyrothcopywriting or on her website. Join her email list for a free 15 minute master class to create your email welcome sequence. Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey there, listener! This episode comes to you from my NEW BUILDING on my birthday! In a previous episode I shared the BIG NEWS that MKM has purchased a brick and mortar location in downtown Cascade. We took possession on June 1 and I’m hanging out here every chance I get! This will eventually include an ACTUAL podcast studio but for today I’m improvising. We’re throwing it back to a tried and true mailbag episode! Thanks for sending your questions to me on social media! I got a little enthusiastic about only a few questions, so this might have to need a part 2! Let’s dig in. What are you doing with the building? I know, right? Especially when all the rage is to get out of the office and have freedom! It’s important for me to put my money where my mouth, and I want to be part of the revitalization of downtown. The new MKM space will facilitate a flexible work schedule. I’m not requiring anyone to come in, but I want the option if they want the option! This HUGE building came up and I’m looking forward to a personal office, flex spaces for my team, and a large conference area. I’d love to host our workshops and programming in person! Not an office-office, definitely more of a hybrid situation. TikToks and Reels? I so empathize with you here! TikTok and Instagram are not friends and don’t play nicely together. Short format video is big right now and each platform has something to offer. Some pointers: * Even though you can, I don’t recommend downloading a video from one platform and posting it on the other. The video quality is poor and the platforms suppress video made in the other. * I get around this by editing video in In Shot and uploading it separately to each platform
How do I increase engagement this summer? It’s such a weird time in the algorithms right now! * With 1500 followers I could expect 200-500 reach on Instagram posts and 400-500 posts on Facebook. This year at this time I’m lucky to get 100! * I’m figuring out Facebook and but my Instagram is still weird * Instagram is going through some stuff right now. I’m calling it their teenage years. * Instagram has rolled out some changes that people aren’t liking. I think if we stick with it they will roll those back in a few months. * Post where your heart is and your people are! * Find new ways to measure success like DMs. * Success is in engagement, not exposure * Show yourself raw and candid. * Focus on the people you’re helping. * Keep Facebook posts simple and start conversations.
With all the ways I could be growing, how do I manage my time? * Let go of timeframes and established dates: We can rewrite the rules! * Priorities shift based on the season
How do I avoid shiny object syndrome? * Focus your vision and ultimate desire for your business. When opportunities come your way you will be able to identify them as valuable
When to pivot without leaving people behind? * Take it slowly and surely * Reflect on if it’s just burnout or if it’s a building feeling that you are not where you want to be * Remember it’s okay to change your mind! * Give yourself the gift of time * You honor you. It’s your business.
July Social School MKM is breaking down ads on Meta so they don’t have to be so darn tricky anymore! Sign up for 7 days of bitesize trainings and tutorials. This is for the small town business owner who is empowered, excited, and READY to understand paid advertising. You’ll be setting up and running your own ads and you’ll understand what the heck those stats mean. July’s membership is focusing on ads only, but we’d love you to take advantage of the annual membership discount! DM me on Instagram with questions or visit the shop to sign up! MKM Business School School is in session, my friend! MKM business school is for the female small town business owner in years 2-7 of her business. She’s established and needs guidance to grow! When should you add to your team? How are you setting boundaries? Find a circle that can elevate you to create something that lasts. Business school includes * Monthly guest professor visit on a focus topic * Two monthly office hours with a service provider * Monthly hotseat for members to come together and build relationships * Access to the ENTIRE MKM video training library * Access to our business service provider directory
DM me on Instagram or sign up with an email to hello@mollyknuthmedia.com with the subject line “MKM Business School.” Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey there listener! I’m so excited to introduce someone I love and admire. Sheila Hansen is on the podcast! We’re chatting money mindset. Ooo. Did you cringe? Did your gut drop a little? Why IS it that money can make us feel so weird? That’s why Sheila’s work is such a gift. She focuses on mindset around money instead of just dollars and cents. Sheila has her own business, Sheila Hansen LLC, that helps small businesses, especially service-based businesses, make sense of their money. Key Takeaways * Sheila and her husband, Bo, live on five acres near Omaha, Nebraska with their three kiddos. * Sheila loves country living but still being close enough to a city to enjoy all it has to offer. * She originally thought she’d be a teacher, but loved her high school accounting classes. She enjoys her position now and personally teaching people about their finances. * Sheila studied accounting at UN Lincoln and climbed the public accounting ladder. Starting a family changed her career outlook! A miscarriage shifted her focus and gave her the courage to start her own business. * I mention a previous podcast guest: Robin Boudreau of No Foot Too Small and Honoring Angels * Every business has a different start! Sheila worked as an assistant with her husband while she built her business. * Money mindset is so important to Sheila! She challenges us to think about money messages we observed growing up and how they affect us today. * Sheila says to turn into your body’s intuition and to question that “icky” feeling you get when you think about money. * “Money comes money goes but it will always flow!” * There are a couple of steps to get started before reaching out to a professional like Sheila. You need basic data so someone can help! * + Get a business bank account + Get some way to track data (A spreadsheet at the very least but she recommends Quickbooks) * When should you hire a professional for money matters? Reflect on the value of your time. Just because you can do something yourself doesn’t mean you should! Sheila says that anyone with needs beyond basic W-2 tax preparation should hire a professional for their taxes. * When should you hire an employee? This depends on your model. Consider the potential of growth by bringing someone on. You don’t have to go all in! You can start with a contractor, or hire someone who wants flexible hours. * Price on your value, not your hours. Know your ideal audience. * Sheila recommends the Biz Chicks Podcast and was a guest on the coaching episode. She said the book The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks helped her mindset.
Connect with Sheila Contact Sheila through her website or Instagram. Follow for more Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Welcome back to the Small Minded Podcast, listener! I’m excited to welcome my friend Melissa King of Dupaco Credit Union. It won’t take long into the episode for you to see how we always have fun together! We giggle as much as we talk shop, but we DO talk shop. Melissa is here to talk about her career in financial services. She emphasizes the importance of forming a partnership with your financial partner and makes finances make sense. Key Takeaways * Melissa King lives with her family on an acreage near Bernard, and Cascade, Iowa. She was raised on a beef farm just a few miles away where her parents live now. * Melissa says she is the “Queen of Pivoting” along with many entrepreneurs! Yes! * Volunteering and hard work was important to Melissa growing up. She continues to stay involved in the community. * She found her position at Dupaco as a temporary employee at age 18 and has been with them since. She originally didn’t think she would do college but now holds an MBA! * Community is important to Melissa and one of the best takeaways from business school was the connections and friendships she made. * Melissa loves meeting with small business owners in every stage of the game and following their progress. * Your relationship with your financials is an important one! Check in at least as often as you connect with your accountant or attorney. Melissa says your financial should get to know you and discuss custom solutions. * Look to America’s Small Business Development Centers for professional business advice by state. * Melissa has become a small business owner herself! She and her family raise miniature golden doodles.
Connect with Melissa You can reach Melissa by phone at five-six-three-581-9081 or email at mking@dupaco.com Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey there, listener. Welcome to this BIG episode of SMALL Minded! I think this will be the first in a long series of big news and updates. It’s so exciting because my dreams are happening in real time! This episode is a little shorter than usual, but it is so big it needed a space all its own. Listen to the episode and DON’T skip ahead on the notes! Key Takeaways * Before I share our BIG NEWS let’s take a journey back in time to my beginnings as a business owner! * I loved my job as a middle school English Language Arts in 2013 but when I found out I was pregnant with our third baby I really wondered if I could balance my job with teaching. I finished out the school year and had our baby in August 2014. * 2014 was a blur! In addition to adding Baby #3 we built a house! My littles kept me plenty busy! * In 2016 I had our fourth baby and started to wonder if there was an identity for me beyond “Mom.” I wanted to make some money for our family so I took on some subbing jobs and helped with administrative help in my dad and cousin’s business. * Part of my administrative tasks was marketing. I didn’t really know what I was doing but made a Facebook business page. I just shared what I wanted to know about businesses: What projects were they working on, stories and faces behind the business, etc. * Whatever I did must have worked! They got great results! By late 2016 a third person contacted me and I made the leap to becoming a “real” business. * March 2017 was my official launch. I continued to grow and in November wrote a 5- and 10-year plan. It seemed SO far off at the time, but for my five years I dreamt of: * + A historic brick-and-mortar location in my hometown + Employing moms in a flexible setting + Childcare + Boutique coffee + A one-stop shop for small business startups with service provider recommendations, digital marketing services, and a startup sector * You guys. I can’t believe how much of this is coming true! MKM has added podcasting, graphic design, copywriting, web design, and as of June 1, 2022: A BRICK AND MORTAR LOCATION!! * Seriously. In early 2022 I noticed the beautiful old bank next to my coworking space up for sale on a Tuesday and we had an offer in by Saturday morning! Last week it officially became ours! * Follow on the socials for lots of updates on the renovation process! I’m so excited to bring you along. * Mailbag episode scheduled for later this month! Submit your questions!
(Business) School is Session! MKM Business School Mastermind is for women in years two through seven of their business who are ready to scale from startup to sustainable. Connect with a circle ready to elevate you to create something that lasts. What you get: * Guest “professor” with a focus topic each month * Two guest experts (“adjunct professors”) throughout the month with a special focus. Hear from HR professionals to start hiring, attorneys to answer legal questions, and more * Monthly Hot Seat Session * Bonus 1-on-1 coaching with Molly * Access to MKM video training library
DM me on Instagram or shoot me an email at hello@mollyknuthmedia.com with subject MKM Business School. Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey friends! This podcast tackles a common topic… What the HECK is working right now on Social in spring of 2022! You probably noticed major shifts on Instagram and Facebook earlier this year. With access to client accounts I could extract common themes across the board. I reached out to my network, ran some experiments, and I feel like we have it down. For now. I shared what I learned in a Facebook Live training and have that recording for you today. I’m a total talker and explainer, but I think I have it down to 45 minutes! Key Takeaways This session focused on six main topics. Strategy * Back when I started in 2017, social media was as simple as posting a video! But as more and more people shared content, the algorithm started to pick and choose what to promote. Now it’s important to strategize so more people see your posts. * It’s not as simple as just showing up. Watch your stats to figure out what your followers like and interact with. * Map out what you will post each day to make customers know, like, and trust you * Make a quarterly and monthly map
Photos * I love brand photos and recommend having at least one head shot and maybe a few more. But don’t feel like you always have to be beautiful and branded! * Balance perfection with reality. * Multi-image posts are getting great engagement. Not collages, but photos for people to swipe through. This increases your engagement. * Show yourself! Viewers interact more with people than products.
Video * Video is so hot right now! * You don’t have to record a video. Consider just adding a video instead of static background to the content you already have.
Storytelling * Storytelling always works! * Book recommendation: Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller * Even if someone doesn’t need your product or service in the moment, stories make you memorable. * Bring viewers into your life and through your day. Think about parts of your day that can inform and guide.
Platforms * Don’t try to be everywhere at once! You will burn out and it’s just too much work! * Consider owning a space away from the platforms with a blog, website, or email list. * “Keep your platforms simple but drive them to the big goals for your business”
Relatability * “If you wait until you are ready you will always be waiting” * The perfect polished post is not really what’s working right now * Dive into what you are doing today and document it!
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Hey, listeners! In this episode I’m sharing high school stories, especially from my senior year. It was just graduation weekend here in Cascade and there is excitement in the air! I hope the kiddos (young adults?) who graduated appreciate what a special time this is! There is a reason we call those years the best of our lives (which I don’t full-on agree with… more on that later)! This was super fun. I had a great time making the episode, and I think it will be super relatable for elder millennials! Remember burning CDs? Or the first iPod and how dumb everyone thought they were… until they didn’t? I don’t think 17-year-old me could have imagined using a digital camera ON MY PHONE to take pictures of these old pictures to share on a BLOG for my PODCAST! I would love to hear more about your small-town high school days! I’ll link up the socials below! Key takeaways * Senior year is so special in pop culture and it was for me too! My high school had 7-12 in the same building and I remember thinking the seniors were just so cool! * I share some of my favorite outfits. Remember how everything in 2005 was 70s inspired? I’m cool with bell bottoms coming back around but low rise jeans need to STAY AWAY! * My school had a tradition of a senior skip day and senior prank but my class was a buncha’ rule followers! * I spent so much time grounded my senior year, which was no fun, but then I somehow didn’t get voted most likely to get grounded? I was so upset about that! * I share some of markers of the time… My Dodge Intrepid, hanging leis from the rearview, burning CDs, and the first time I saw an iPod! * I don’t think high school makes the best years of your life, but they are certainly the beginning! There is just something magical about being old enough to really get out there and have real fun but not the responsibilities yet!
June Social School It’s June and school is JUST getting started! Social School is now enrolling for June! This month we’re focusing on captions that convert. What is working for captions right now? How the heck should you format them? This month’s Social School includes: * Bite-sized video trainings * Access to supplemental materials * A Q & A with me
Sign up at my website here. You can sign up for June or jump in for the whole year! An annual membership gets you two free months! Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey, Listener. It literally took me 11 tries to get an intro recorded and it still isn’t great! I am just so humbled by today’s guest and honored to have her on the podcast! Robin Boudreau and her husband Ryan started No Foot Too Small to draw attention to pregnancy and infant loss. We’re proud to have her here in Iowa but their mission has expanded across the country! Her mission is just so necessary and needed. I just cannot put into words the importance of today’s conversation. But I will try. Key takeaways: * Robin and Ryan are from small-town Wisconsin. They went to college at the University of Minnesota and moved to Iowa City for Ryan’s Post Doc program. * I love how Robin asks, “How am I going to build MY small town in THIS community.” How cool to make the most of where life takes you? And build community everywhere? * Robin had her first daughter, Bella, in 2011 and got pregnant shortly after with her son Beau. At her 20-week ultrasound, immediately after finding out he was a boy she learned he had many life-threatening abnormalities. * Beau was born that January and went immediately to heaven. * Robin and Ryan knew they always wanted to honor Beau but weren’t sure how. They had a birthday party for him but invited the whole community. They honored 12 angels that day and over 100 guests! * After their amazing event, people asked them to continue hosting, so they did! After three years the Boudreaus and their contributors donated $100,000 to March of Dimes. * Robin loves March of Dimes but recognized the difference and importance of her mission too. They started No Foot Too Small to specifically recognize pregnancy and infant loss. * By 2019 the organization was so busy that Robin left her career to grow NFTS full-time. * The mission of No Foot Too Small is to celebrate, unite, and build. They celebrate angels, unite families, and build bereavement birthing suites. * Robin wants her support groups to feel like a circle of girlfriends! Their organization hosts meetups in fun and welcoming spaces. Learn more about their Mom’s Groups and Men’s Social Clubs on their website. * The pandemic caused their group to “pivot” and host online meetups. Her stories are heartbreaking but she loved to meet people across the country. * When Robin first lost Beau, all she wanted was to cuddle up with a cozy blanket! She searched far and wide for the perfect item to wear to honor Beau. That inspired their line of angel-inspired gifts, Love Beau. 11% of profits go back to No Foot Too Small.
Connect with Robin Email Robin directly at robin@nofoottoosmall.org or message their Facebook page to seek support. Learn more about No Foot Too Small and their events on their website. Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Welcome friends! Before I launch into my LOVE for teachers, I need to get a little sassy about how it is NOT FAIR that so many helpers have to share an appreciation week! To teachers, firefighters, emergency responders, childcare providers, small business leaders, nurses: THANK YOU for all you do for all of us, especially in small towns. Of course you deserve year ‘round appreciation, but the LEAST we could do is give you your own week, dangit! Today’s episode is all about teachers! They are so revered in our small towns and make such an impact on all of our lives! I look back on teachers who made a difference for me and reflect on my time as a teacher. Key Takeaways * I am a teacher by trade and a lifelong lover of reading! No surprise, my favorite teachers inspired my love of reading. * My favorite part of teaching was getting students to LOVE reading. We started the term reading for just ten minutes each day. It seems my kiddos who hated reading most in the beginning would beg for more time as the term went on! * The best part of being a teacher was my students! I still love running in to former students, even though now it’s at our local bar! * The best but hardest part of teaching is RELATIONSHIPS! Think about how teachers inspired you to do more, try harder, and see the light inside yourself! * My teacher Mrs. McLaughlin sent a postcard to every new student from where she had traveled that summer. She gave us books when we met our reading goals and I especially loved Roald Dahl books. She really encouraged my love of reading. * Dianne Knepper let us choose our own assessments as “book reports” and I still remember the Ella Enchanted board game I created. * Girl scout leaders, aunts, uncles, we are all teachers. Thank you for encouraging kiddos! * Please take a long hard look at how important supporting our small town teachers is! They give our children so much love and support and teach academics too. Definitely get involved in your kids’ education, but please keep supporting teachers. Education is especially tough right now with people being super critical. Please, please, show teachers your support.
Teachers, you are the best! I’d love you hear your most beloved teacher stories! Tag me (Molly Knuth Media) or the podcast (Small Minded Podcast) on social media to share your stories. Podcast Sponsor MKM Business School is in session! This new business school mastermind is perfect for the female small town entrepreneur in years 2-7 of her business. She’s established but wants to grow! Connect with women at a similar stage and elevate your business and brand. It’s not just me! I have awesome friends who help provide: * Monthly focus topics by experts in the field * Office hours calls from service providers * Monthly hot seat sessions to learn, grow, and build relationships in-person * Access to the MKM video training library * Access to the MKM business service provider directory.
Shoot me a DM on Instagram an email to hello@mollyknuthmedia,com, subject line “MKM Business School” Follow for More Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Hey there, listener. This week’s episode is super sweet for celebrating you mamas! Thanks so much to the listeners who contributed motherly advice! I’m so blessed to be a mom to four little ones (or… not so little! They grow too fast!). We definitely planned to be parents, but we did NOT plan for it to look like what it does! It’s a beautiful little mess that I never could have predicted, but it is my most. favorite. role. Key Takeaways * So I’ll start it off! New mamas: Get clear with yourself. How I pictured myself momming is SO different than the homemade-snacks-and-hands-on-homework-help mom I pictured! Yup, we have screentime and processed snacks! But believe me, if you let kids be bored long enough, they will find something to entertain them for HOURS. It’s like a 30 minute bubble, but they’ll forget screentime soon enough! * Ok, so I‘m going to need another bullet point. It’s okay to not read all of the books and research all of the things ahead of time! For myself, it made me more anxious and nervous. Reach out to your support system when you need help. No need worrying in advance! * Definitely take time for yourself, your relationship, and your friends. I couldn’t agree with this one more! We love our Natalie. She’s a junior in college now but has been with our family forever. She’s like a big sister and sometimes a more organized mom than me! It’s so good to have time for yourself and for have more people for your kiddos to love. Get some great regular childcare in your little villiage! * Give yourself grace after childbirth. Oof. I learned this one the hard way. Seriously, your body basically performed a miracle. Go easy on yourself! Rest! * Related: As you’re resting and relaxin, snuggle those babies as long as you can! They just grow too fast! It’s sneaky, but one day you’ll look and them and not remember the last time you held them in your lap. Cherish every minute you can! * Be present. This is a challenge for me, but I can definitely see the value in really being in the moment with your family. It’s hard as business owner with a home office, but I’m really working on it! * Get a circle of support you can ask questions to. Being “small minded” I’m definitely going to pump local groups, but online is good too! Think globally! Just remember you’re not alone. * It’s okay to not be okay. Allow others to pour into you. Get the help you need. Care for your mental health.
I’m going to need a whole ‘nother episode to rant on how it’s SO UNFAIR that Mother’s Day, Teacher’s Appreciation, Childcare Provide Appreciation, Firefighter appreciation all are on the same week. You all deserve your own week! I’ve got to take a minute to acknowledge that this week isn’t always special and sweet for everyone. Everybody’s story is different but they are all beautiful. Whether you are struggling with a parent relationship, choosing not to be a parent, or if your childfree life is not by choice, I see you. You are close to my heart this week. So much love this week, everyone! I hope you have a beautiful Mother’s Day! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
After we stopped recording, Will McAllister (our guest on this week's podcast) and I got into additional conversation about his journey through various educational settings post-high school.
So I hit "record" again because I thought his message was important about keeping an open mind as youth consider a variety of options post-high school: workforce, community college, state school, and more.
Especially in our modern economy with workforce shortages in nearly every community, keeping an open mind about someone's path after graduation can open doors and provide opportunities for our youth.
Let me know what you think in this first BONUS EP of the Small-Minded Podcast.
Hey, listeners! I have a super special guest this week in our series on The Learning Center in Charles City, Iowa! Today I share my interview with Will McAllister of Woodruff Construction. At just 23 years old, he is the construction manager of the TLC project! I just love this kid and the love he has for literally building BIG things in small towns. Key takeaways * Will started studying engineering but didn’t love it and transferred to Kirkwood to study construction management. He later transferred to UNI to complete his bachelor’s degree. Along the way he worked part time with Woodruff and has been with them full time since graduation. * Will loves that he gets to combine an office job with the in-person visits to job sites. * As a construction manager he works with the building superintendent, crew leaders, and more. He’s managing a LOT! Will says it’s about building a great team, working together, and staying organzied. * Will discusses some challenges of the construction industry lately. Access to supplies has inflated budgets and pushed back deadlines which can be very frustrating. * Okay, so he’s my brother. See why I get to call him a kid? But seriously, can you even believe how poised and professional he is? So proud. * Will has enjoyed learning new things with the TLC build like how to have restrooms in the childcare rooms or how each room has its own HVAC system. He loves to remodel old buildings and is excited for the TLC project. * Will credits his success to his family (aww!) and their high standard of work ethic. He also says it is hard to get in trouble in a small town because you never know who will see you doing something stupid! * Mom and I had some fun thinking of his bonus round questions, including our dad’s favorite one-liner. * Will’s advice for young folks is to give community college some thought! He’s grateful for what he learned, but says he felt “too proud” to go straight for community college. He knows he had to try engineering first in order to know it wasn’t what he wanted, but that in hindsight, community college so just so great for him.
Thanks so much, Will, for introducing me to the key players of the TLC project! (Pam Ost, Dan Levi) Connect with Will Will works for Woodruff Construction. You can contact him personally on LinkedIn or Instagram… Whether with construction questions or to sell him a jet ski! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
You guys. I thought I’d have Dan Levi on the podcast to talk all things TLC. Our conversation turned out to be so much more than I could have imagined! What an amazing advocate for the smallest people in our small towns! Dan Levi is an architect of Dan Levi Architecture and his firm worked with last week’s guest, Pam Ost, to build The Learning Center in Charles City, Iowa. We’re in a series on the center and how big things happen in small towns. But omigoodness we ended up just talking about the importance of childcare and I am SO here for it. Key takeaways * “A rising tide lifts all ships!” * Dan is an Iowa State grad (and fan- yuck! Ha!) and architect in the Waterloo/Cedar Falls area. He loves to bring childcare centers to small towns. Next to skilled nursing, childcare centers have the most building regulations! * He is SUCH an amazing advocate for CHILDCARE! (He is sure to NOT say babysitting!) Dan points out that young families will not stay in or move to small towns if there is not high quality childcare * Iowa, and much of the midwest, is suffering a labor shortage. Childcare isn’t just for the little ones, it’s to keep parents comfortable too! * Dan says old buildings, especially old schools, are a blight on a small town. It’s so sad to see them fall into disrepair! It’s so important to keep Iowa towns thriving and quality childcare is key for that! * Dan discusses how the childcare industry is “upside down.” Lead teaching positions can pay less than starting wage at a convenience store and offer no benefits. He’s so understanding of making sure projects fit the individual goals of each community and fit the BUDGET! * Dan mentions another inspirational project, Little Knights Learning Center, in Dysart, Iowa. He also recommends the resource Child Care Resource and Referral for families looking for high-quality childcare in Northeast Iowa.
Connect with Dan Levi Dan’s contact information can be found on his company website, Levi Architecture. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Hey, listeners. Today on the podcast I have Pam Ost of The Learning Center in Charles City, Iowa. She is an absolute treat of a guest. She has a kindness in her voice that makes me wish I could be a kid in her care! Luckily she works well with big kids too and is getting stuff done. It’s easy to see why the whole community believes in her ideas. She could be the spokesperson for the whole darn city! I promise I didn’t set her up for this, but her story fits PERFECTLY into my steps of getting big things done in small towns. I just love her story (their story!) of how Charles City came together to see a need and find a solution. And I just. Freakin. Love. A good persevere-through-hard-times story. Key takeways * Pam Ost is the director of The Learning Center, a childcare center in Charles City, Iowa. They are renovating an old middle school to expand their center to address the growing need for high quality childcare. * Pam emphasizes the importance of supporting children from birth through graduation. She works with the public school to support child development throughout life. * Charles City, Iowa is, by Iowa standards, a big town with 8,000 people and home to some major industries. Great childcare is SO IMPORTANT to support the economy! * Covid showed the world how quickly things fall apart without childcare. Pam is a major employer herself with 30+ employees. She is proud to say her center never closed and never laid off workers through the whole pandemic, even when enrollment went from 88 children to 35. * Covid also threw some wrenches in their project! They are suffering supply chain issues just like everyone but hope to be in their new location this fall. * There are so many exciting things about this project. The students are most looking forward to a gym! The new location will also have a commercial kitchen to make it a true community building.
Connect with Pam The Learning Center has an active and adorable Facebook page to check out. More information can be found on their website. TLC is a non-profit and can receive donations through PayPal. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about Social or Business School visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
My friends, it’s just me today in this week’s episode, talking all about YOU. YOU can do big things in a small town. I’m so excited for the upcoming series we’re sharing in April. The round about way I found this story is typical of how things get done in small towns! So, my brother Will is a construction manager in Waterloo, Iowa, and connected me with TLC (aka The Learning Center) an AMAZING childcare center in Charles City, Iowa. Pam Ost (who you’ll meet in future episodes) saw a need in her community, had a vision for how to complete, found her people who could help, and connected her goals to the entire community. No, I didn’t set her up for this, but she happened to follow my blueprint for getting things DONE in a small town. Now Charles City has an amazing childcare center in the works in a renovated historic building. Maybe you’ve been there. You’ve seen the cool old building in your downtown and thought “someone should really do something about that.” YOU are that SOMEONE! I’ll share key takeaways from the episode below, but if you want to narrow it to one thing… “If we want really cool things in our small towns we have to be willing to do them.” - Melissa Nelson, Hungry Canyon Key Takeaways * I share my blueprint for getting something to the finish line: Cast your vision, find your people, and connect our community. * First, cast your vision! Thing globally and don’t limit yourself! I mention an earlier episode with Callie Fitzgerald (one of our most downloaded to date!) where she was feeling conflicted imagining what is now Centrally Rooted. She sat down with a journal to sort out her thoughts and LITERALLY the NEXT DAY found the perfect building. DON’T limit yourself here! You can sort out budget and all that later. Dream BIG! * THEN it’s time to get serious. Seek out those people who can bring this vision to life. Me, I’m a good beginner. I’m not a details person. I’ll make all the videos, do all the marketing, but cold calls for fundraising? No. Thank. You. Luckily there are folks who love behind the scenes work! * Every project needs leaders, doers, finish liners, and key partners. It’s those finish liners who keep dreamers like me on track! * Put a PLAN together and market, market, MARKET! Obviously marketing is my jam, but it is seriously so important in small towns. That old building is someone’s precious memory! You need a community to support your big idea! Get them on board.
This episode is pretty short and sweet but it’s leading up to a great series. Come on back next week! There’s not a guest this week but I mention Pam Ost and The Learning Center in Charles City, Iowa and the parallels to our childcare center here in Cascade, Aquin Little Angels. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about Social or Business School visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
This March at Small-Minded has been all about badass women, and I couldn’t let the month pass without inviting my friend and sister-in-law, Amanda Schlemme, to the the podcast. We’re both “old” now as we joke throughout the podcast, but back in the late 00s as I was in college and first dating my now-husband, his sister Amanda was living a fabulous big-city life in the Twin Cities (Minnesota). She did the whole high-heels-every-day, great Banana Republic outfits, CPA thing, and loved it. And I loved when we could get up there and visit! Amanda has always been such a role model to me, but as we’ve grown older and wiser, I admire her more and more every passing day. Our family has been through some STUFF to say the least, and as a result by the early 2010s Amanda, her husband Travis, and their family moved back to Cascade, our hometown. We are SO grateful to have her here, for a wealth of reasons: First off, she’s my accountant- and she is brilliant. She keeps me on top of my Quickbooks (thank God), organizes SO MANY freakin’ forms for me, and fields all of my “what does this mean?” questions about numbers and government agencies. Okay, so having a CPA for a close friend is AWESOME, but that is just a small part of this amazing woman. Amanda is a Swiss army knife, listeners. She’s a key part of the family farm, she and her husband own and operate the local tavern and eatery, she chairs the board of the one of the coolest camps ever, and her efforts over the years have contributed to the community in such a big way. We could have talked about a million things in this episode, but oops! We ended up spending almost the whole episode on just one particular part of her life, which happens to be my personal favorite thing about Amanda - how dedicated she is as a mom. She has two incredible sons earthside, one of whom has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). At just 14 months old back in 2009, Amanda’s son Colin was diagnosed with SMA type 2. This diagnosis not only dramatically altered the trajectory of Amanda’s life, but it allowed her to take on big things that have a lasting ripple effect for hundreds of families of SMA. I will definitely need Amanda back for a Part 2 because I just know you will LOVE this episode, my friends. Key Takeaways * After college at University of Northern Iowa Amanda worked as a CPA in the Twin Cities. It was a bit of a culture shock but they carved out a little space in the city and made friends that became family. Amanda loved learning about how different companies worked. * Amanda is the mom to two boys: Eli and Colin. Colin had an appointment with a neurologist when he missed some milestones by 15 months old. He was diagnosed with SMA, which at that time, had no cure or treatment. She was told he would never walk, and to not look at the Internet for additional information. She made it two days before she deep-dived online, learning everything she possibly could. She has been such an amazing advocate for Colin, and SMA, ever since. * The family made the move back to Cascade where Amanda works with the family farm and businesses including Bale Barn and Two Gingers Tavern and Eatery. * Amanda chairs the board at Camp Courageous in Monticello, Iowa. They offer year-round camps and respite care for people with disabilities. Colin looks forward to MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) Camp every year and has been going since he was six. He gets to zip line, hike, swim, ride the train, and more, with the assistance of Camp and his amazing counselors. * Amanda has brought our community together to raise tens of thousands of dollars for Cure SMA through Small Heroes, Mighty Cause. Since Colin’s diagnosis, there are now three options for SMA treatment. * Colin is an amazing old soul who loves coffee, gambling, and ESPN. He loves all sports, especially baseball, is very observant, and a great listener. He had a major spinal surgery last year but has recovered well and is in good health today. * We’re so grateful to have Amanda and family back in Cascade! We definitely need her back on the podcast for a Part 2!
Connect with Amanda Amanda has so much going on! She is the board chair at Camp Courageous, organizes Small Heroes, Mighty Cause, and is involved in the family businesses Two Gingers Tavern and Eatery and Bale Barn. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about Social or Business School visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop. Podcast Sponsor: School is in session! Be the first to know about our spring program offers by signing up at https://bit.ly/mkmspring Depending on where you are in your small business journey, we have options to meet you where you are and help you grow your woman-owned business this spring. Social School April’s focus is on story telling on Facebook and Instagram! What you get: * Marketing assistance and education * Short daily, easily digestable trainings * 100 story starters to plug and play * Canva template packs to customize for our business * Monthly Q&A with me (Molly!) * Accountability! Three social school “students” with win cash prizes of $222 for sticking with it!
Business School is for women in years two through seven of their business and are ready to scale from startup to sustainable. What you get: * Guest “professor” with a focus topic each month * Two guest experts (“adjunct professors”) throughout the month with a special focus. Hear from HR professionals to start hiring, attorneys to answer legal questions, and more * Bonus 1-on-1 coaching with Molly
Listeners, I ALMOST called this a vulnerable episode. I’m talking mental health with Dr. Lauren Welter. But, as we say SO much in this episode, and I truly believe, mental health help is totally normal. So, scratch that! We’re not going to feel vulnerable talking mental wellness. We’re going to feel empowered, and super lucky to have Lauren here in rural Iowa giving great support. Even if life is going well, it’s so great to have professionals like Lauren in our corner. Then when life gets rough… as we know it does… we already know where to turn to get back on track. So many great takeaways from this conversation. Key takeaways: * Dr. Lauren Welter started in finance and lived in New York, working on Wall Street, before her “quarter life crisis” brought her back to Iowa City, Iowa, to study psychology. * She met her husband, a sixth generation farmer, at the Great Jones County Fair in Monticello, Iowa. She opened her practice, Prairie Home Wellness, there in 2018. * Lauren wondered if there was a need for a mental wellness practice in such a rural area but quickly learned: YES! She talks about the stigma mental health gets and barriers that rural folks face to finding healthcare. * We chat about how rural women carry A LOT, but have been especially burdened these last couple of years. I share my own experience with therapy and the value I’ve found. * How do you know when it’s time to seek professional help? Get help ASAP from 911, our Iowa Crisis Hotline, or the National Suicide Hotline if you have thoughts of harming yourself. Often though the signs are more subtle. Depression doesn’t mean you’re totally sad all of the time, but it can mean you just kind of feel… nothing. Not really sad, but also not really happy. Losing interest in things you used to like. Feeling like life is just too much and you can’t keep up. Feeling like you’re treading water, or even worse, going under. Please, please, reach out.
Connect with Dr. Lauren Welter Follow Prairie Home Wellness on Facebook or visit their website. Podcast Sponsor: School is in session! Be the first to know about our spring program offers by signing up at https://bit.ly/mkmspring Depending on where you are in your small business journey, we have options to meet you where you are and help you grow your woman-owned business this spring. Social School April’s focus is on story telling on Facebook and Instagram! What you get: * Marketing assistance and education * Short daily, easily digestable trainings * 100 story starters to plug and play * Canva template packs to customize for our business * Monthly Q&A with me (Molly!) * Accountability! Three social school “students” with win cash prizes of $222 for sticking with it!
Business School is for women in years two through seven of their business and are ready to scale from startup to sustainable. What you get: * Guest “professor” with a focus topic each month * Two guest experts (“adjunct professors”) throughout the month with a special focus. Hear from HR professionals to start hiring, attorneys to answer legal questions, and more * Bonus 1-on-1 coaching with Molly
Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about Social or Business School visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Today’s episode has someone pretty personal on the podcast- I’m joined this week by my spirited, brave, and courageous daughter, Charlotte.
We’re four years out from the August our world turned upside down when an overreaction from a cold virus caused Charlotte’s immune system to attack her spinal cord. As she should have been starting kindergarten and being a flower girl in her aunt’s wedding, Charlotte spent two months at the Stead Family Children’s hospital in Iowa City and then in rehab for paralysis she suffered from Acute Flaccid Myelitis. This was the early years of MKM when all of my effort and energy was going into growing a business. Seriously- I brought a tote of client work with to the hospital before we realized how fast Charlotte’s condition was deteriorating. The lesson to slow down and prioritize family slammed into me, but it grounded me in a way I’m grateful for now. I appreciated my small town more then ever as they rallied around Charlotte and our family. I became more devoted than ever to small town small businesses. Listeners, this one is a roller coaster. At the time I couldn’t believe I stopped to take pictures and journal, but I am so grateful now because without them this time in our lives wouldn’t even seem real. Charlotte’s journey is filled with blessings and magic that I still struggle to comprehend and explain. Listen along and you’ll see why people telling Charlotte she is just like her mama is the best. compliment. ever. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PIBDXrgFlQ&
https://youtu.be/-PIBDXrgFlQ Key takeaways * On August 11, 2018, we took Charlotte to our regional hospital for her to be rushed to the Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
* We didn’t know what was wrong! Charlotte’s journey was filled with strange and magic coincidences and one was someone back home catching a Good Morning America segment that mentioned Acute Flaccid Myelitis.
* Yes, “The Wave” at the University of Iowa Hawkeye Football games is exactly as amazing as it looks. Our family experienced it three times in our stay.
* Charlotte was sedated for 17 days and stayed in acute inpatient rehab for three weeks. Our family wasn’t under the same roof for two months!
* Charlotte continues to attend therapies and is still making improvements. She is such a trooper and we are so proud of her courage and strength!
* Charlotte shares her memories of her experience, her favorite people, and the therapies she loves.
* Charlotte is so proud of the painting she helped “Mr. Gary” make and that raised $10,000 at a gala to improve the therapy center Charlotte attends. ( Much more than the $50 Charlotte estimated paintings to be worth!) The couple who purchased the painting generously gave it to our family and it is such a treasure.
* Charlotte is sometimes sad that she can’t hold planks or do mountain climbers like the other kids, but says that most kids don’t notice “righty” and her struggles. She loves art and has taught herself to work with her left hand.
* Seriously. What a great kid. We would never wish this journey on another family but are so grateful for the love and strength it has brought our family.
Podcast Sponsor: MKM Spring Programs Be the first to know about our spring program offers by signing up at https://bit.ly/mkmspring Depending on where you are in your small business journey, we have options to meet you where you are and help you grow your woman-owned business this spring. Option 1: Social School *For the business owner who is just starting out, looking for marketing accountability, or to uplevel their marketing skills. What you get: * Tips and tricks for using social media to advertise your small business * Monthly topic of focus * Workbooks * Content Calendars * Q&A Sessions * Templates and more
Option 2: Business School *For the business owner in years 2-7, looking for community and support as they grow from start-up business to stabilizing and scaling. What you get: * For the 2-7 year business owner looking for that “something” * Bring in monthly experts in various areas like “working in your purpose,” “productivity tools,” “organizing your business,” “hiring,” and more * A place for you to find inspiration, answers, and community as you grow your small-town small business
Follow for More (Obviously no social media handles for today’s guest!) Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
You will be SO inspired by today’s guest my friends. Today I sit down with my friend, Callie Mescher FitzGerald, a licensed music therapist and founder of Centrally Rooted in Dubuque, Iowa. A native of Cascade, Iowa, Callie holds degrees in Music Education, Vocal Performance, and is certified as a Neurologic Music Therapist. She has been passionate about the development of children her entire life and is eager to share her knowledge and joy of music with children and families. Her approach is informed, but informal, and she enjoys wearing her 'therapist hat' to see the developmental milestones expand in little ones. In the midst of personal transformation after losing her partner to mental illness, Callie decided to bring her music back to her hometown to lead children in vocal and instrumental lessons beginning in 2018. In a mere two years, Callie went from a handful of students to now a full roster with a waiting list. And in 2021, Callie and her new husband purchased a building in a historically underserved neighborhood in Dubuque, Iowa, to create Centrally Rooted. Centrally Rooted provides a safe space for creative and self-expression for kids and families of all ages, abilities, and income levels. You will LOVE this episode. Tune in for a few key takeaways, and then go give Callie and Centrally Rooted a follow! Key Takeaways * Callie’s vision is to create a center for developing and supporting positive mental health via self-expression. Right now, the offerings include a lot of music, but Callie’s goal is to bring in yoga, play therapists, art therapists, and more to help people focus on their overall well-being in a variety of creative ways. * As a girl, Callie did NOT love music. She says her parents forced her to begrudingly attend weekly music lessons, but it wasn’t until joining the theater club and performing on stage in high school that she considered music as a career. * In her undergrad, Callie studied musical performance and music education. But she also found that she loved the study of psychology and understanding how the human brain worked. She then decided to pursue a music therapy degree after finding the neurologic, research-based effects of music on the brain. * “Music has a way of sneaking into each different area of the brain, and so there’s really no limit for what can be reached. New pathways can be merged in the brain via music-making.” * “It’s amazing what music can do in the brain.” * Callie has worked with stroke victims, autistic children, spinal cord damage, and has helped them recover in fun, effective ways. * “The work is hidden; it just looks like play.” Callie “hides” the therapy into fun and play to intrinsically motivate her patients and get them to push past some of their perceived limitations. * Mindful Musicians is the combination of Callie’s personal mission, professional training, and societal need to have constructive conversations about mental health. Presented through music and play to children and their caregivers, Mindful Musicians teaches kids positive self-talk, accepting others, confidence-building, coping skills, emotional expression, and more. * With music competence in children’s formative years comes verbal development, coordination, and Callie says, “It’s about setting them up for the most success they can have.” * Callie’s big goal is to turn Mindful Musicians into a curriculum and make it available to families, schools, and organizations, to positively impact kids in their care. * “I was letting the constraints of the world we live in limit my dreaming capability.” * “All we can choose is how we react to it,” Callie shares that pain and suffering is inevitable in life, but through reflection and growth beautiful things can become of it. * And so, so much more in today’s episode!
Follow Callie and Centrally Rooted Keep up on all the happenings at Centrally Rooted on Facebook @centrallyrooted or head to www.centrallyrooted.com to sign up for their programs or contribute to the scholarship fund. MKM Spring Programming Growing your business is hard...trust me, I know. But you don’t have to go it alone. So this spring, I'm offering two group programs to support you as you run your small-town small business: 1. MKM Social School: Our 12 week education program to help you learn the platforms, systems, and structures to market your business online 2. MKM Business School: A mastermind for business owners looking for growth beyond social media. A place where we will bring in niched-down experts in areas like messaging, business finance, productivity, etc. and where we can ask other questions as we grow through the "teen years" of our businesses. More info will be released in the weeks to come, but you can hop on the email waitlist now so you're the first to get details: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/620ab3a1e0eda1a0d870aba5
I am so excited to start not only the first day of a new month with you, but to kick of Women’s History Month! If you’ve been here for any length of time, you know that I love to celebrate kickass women, and this month at Small-Minded and Molly Knuth Media, we are sharing some women who are doing great things in 2022. This is the first in a series of episodes and blog entries sharing the stories of women I know who are growing businesses, volunteering in their communities, raising families, maintaining households, and generally just keeping the world turning through the work they do and the love that they share. I’ve always loved commemorating this month in particular to look back at all the progress we’ve made, celebrate our accomplishments, and plan for the work yet to do. And today we kick it off with a look at the current state of women in business, in the workplace, in the home, and how we can best support their efforts.
Hey listeners, today is February 22, 2022. If you followed me for any length of time, you know that I’m a tad bit superstitious and repeating numbers are often referred to as angel numbers! So what better time than Tuesday, 2-22-22, to get a little woo-woo here at Small Minded!
Welcome, welcome, welcome, Alix Ambriz to the podcast! Alix and I got to know each other in 2021 when she enrolled in the first iteration of MKM Social School, and over the past few months I’ve gotten to know her and her business a little better. She joined us in December as part of a panel interview here on Small-Minded, but today I’m so excited to have her with us for a full episode in today’s podcast! Alix and her husband live in McCook, Nebraska, where together they raise two boys. In addition, Alix has a 9-5 job where she works as the development team lead for a learning design company and most recently, their family purchased Sehnert’s Bakery & Bieroc Cafe, a 500-year-old business, in McCook. Take a listen as Alix shares her story and what she and her husband have learned in taking over this historic brand and their new endeavor as business owners!
Hey listeners, in honor of the Valentine’s Day holiday, I asked on Instagram for your submissions of small town love stories. Now, I know what you’re thinking…stories of making out under the high school football field bleachers, or prom king and queen, etc. etc. Nope! Not today! For these small town love stories, I just asked to hear what YOU loved about YOUR TOWN. It could be the flower planters that line main street in the summer. Or maybe the way your community rallies when others need help to host fundraisers and meal trains. Or maybe it’s the just those wistful, Americana summer memories of riding your bike to the library. Those are the stories we’re here for today. I’m going to do my best to share all of your responses because you SHOWED UP with your submissions, listeners! Get ready to smile and get the warm fuzzies because these small town love stories are special.
Is all growth in business good? Is increased revenue, sales, and client roster, all it’s cracked up to be? Today we’re talking how periods of major growth brings really great things, but they also bring up questions and challenges that will test you as the CEO. Listeners, I’m laying it all out in this week’s episode. As Molly Knuth Media transitions to the “teenage years” and we test limits and forge our own path, I want to talk about the harder side of growing a business - staying true to your goals amidst opportunity and growth.
Welcome listeners to a special episode today with guest, Arica Ohloff. Arica is a strengths coach who hones in on what makes people special and brings out others’ greatness. When it comes down to value, Arica truly believes every single person has potential. Get out your notebooks, pen, and get ready because this is a good one friends! Key Takeaways: * Instead of making someone more well-rounded, Arica focuses on making people more star shaped. “We are raised in society to focus on what we don’t do well. Let’s start putting people in roles where they are dominate.” * “As parents when we can see what sets our kids apart from their classmates, tell them. What do your kids learn really rapidly? What do they have a natural earning towards?” Arica shares her thoughts on looking within and “being individually sharp.” * Leaning into a team approach versus a “I can do everything” approach allows you and your business to go further than imagined and grow exponentially. * Check out “The E Myth” book, a free trial of the book is available on Blinkist. * E Myth covers the three components of entrepreneurship: * + Technician + Manager + Visionary * Arica’s favorite quote to remind others of how we’re wired so differently comes from Joseph Campbell, “Kindness is loaning someone else your strengths without reminding them of their weakness.” * Arica helps guide people to figure out more about themselves through a developmental tool called, Gallup’s CliftonStrengths Assessment. * “We are never done growing.” We all have to do the hard work of understanding ourselves and those around us. * “We’re never going to eliminate all working frustrations.” Arica talks about understanding that there is no one that thinks or behaves like you do, get rid of the “gavels” we all have different things we can bring. * “When we show up authentically, we earn trust.” What’s your secret sauce or superpower?
Get more from Arica Arica offers complimentary calls to discover if she is the right fit for you and your business. Give her a follow over on Instagram and Facebook and head to her website to get in contact!
Hey friends, I’m happy to be sitting here with you again today. Just last week you got to hear from Jade Boyd and next week I have another exciting guest interview with strength coach, Arica Ohloff. I thought this was a great time to bring up the topic of needing a coach. As a small business owner there are lot a different ways we can spend our money. Today, I want to talk about the different options available to you as a small business owner when it comes to business coaching. Key Takeaways: * Check out “Episode 55: Investing in Your Business” if you’re looking for an episode where I break down a little further the variety of areas you can invest in your business. * Similar to a sports coach, a business coach is someone who is a leader that offers stability and helps you find direction and orient to the place you want to go. * I have found that a business coach helps me get where I wants to go in my business faster, more efficiently, and in the end, help save time and money. * How do you know which kind of coach to pursue? I’ve worked with different coaches over the years for different reasons. Try to get a birds eye view of your business. Learn where feel uncomfortable or think about something you’re looking to accomplish. * There are few formats when it comes to coaching, in order from the lowest to highest investment these would be a digital product, then a workshop, group coaching program, a Mastermind, an Intensive, and lastly one-on-one ongoing coaching. * How do you know someone is a good coach for you? Really trust your gut, get referrals, and ask yourself, is it someone you aspire to be?
Janey Stahl Commercial If you're a business owner, then right now you’re probably reviewing 2021’s performance as you prep and plan for 2022, am I right? For me at MKM, that looks like updating pricing, updating contracts, prepping for taxes, assessing profit/loss, etc. as I make a game plan for structure and services in 2022. But I didn’t start out in my first year (or the first 4!) knowing how to do this. Do you? Do you know which areas of your business you need to focus on building next year? Do you know which steps to take to make those improvements? As you know, revenue does NOT equal profit or take home pay in your business. So how do we grow more than just the gross revenue and actually make some money in 2022? Thankfully, my friend Janey Stahl is a fractional CFO and she is an expert in just this type of thing. She helps business owners see that sustainable profitability requires high performance in all areas of their business. And with her expertise, she guides them through the process of analyzing profit, offers, services, products, and time spend so that business owners can work smarter in the exact areas that will keep their business working profitably for years to come. Right now, Janey is offering a free assessment to help you determine which area of your business could be improved in ’22 and it’s FREE! In this guide she walks through creating your unique business plan for next year and identify specific steps you should take to strengthen your business’ foundation! Go to janeystahl.com/smallminded to download the free assessment today! That’s janeystahl.com/smallminded for more clarity, less confusion, and confidence knowing you are doing the right things to grow your business in the year ahead. Psst: If you’d like to hear more from Janey, head to episode 54 of the Small-Minded Podcast for her inspiring story of entrepreneurship and financial tips for business owners of any size. MKM Content Calendar Commercial Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Listeners help me welcome Jade Boyd to the Small-Minded podcast! Jade is a brand photographer and business coach located in Iowa City, Iowa. Jade loves filling her time running her business and doing home renovation projects with her husband….ok, “love” might be a stretch on the home reno, but I know I love following along! I can attest Jade is a great brand photographer as I’ve been lucky enough to have her do my brand photos this past year. Jade is so talented with her photography, she can help tell a story through a photo, but she also takes it to the next leveto help her clients create content with their images and connect with their ideal customers. In 2022, Jade’s business is making a small pivot as she helps clients streamline and organize their business operations to get more efficient and save time and money. Through 1:1 services, a template for her favorite organizing software, and a brand-new PODCAST launching at the end of the month, Jade Boyd Co is doing big things for business owners in the new year, and I’m so excited to dive into Jade’s story and her plans with you today! Get more from Jade Boyd Co Follow along with Jade for her upcoming brand photography session offers, her new services and podcast drop, and of course, for home reno projects! Give her a follow over on Instagram and head to her website to grab her FREE How to Batch Plan a Productive Work Week Guide or The Organize your Business Template. Chilled Freezer Meals Guys…we need to talk about something personal…your dinner. My friend Lindsy at Chilled Freezer meals helps make dinner simple and convenient while using whole ingredients that you can feel good about putting on the table. Visit chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded to see what Lindsy and her team have in store for you. AND to sweeten the deal, first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Again that’s chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded AND first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Psst: if you’d like to hear a little more about Lindsy’s story and how she’s grown her Chilled business, head to Episode 56 of the podcast! Janey Stahl Coaching If you're a business owner, then right now you’re probably reviewing 2021’s performance as you prep and plan for 2022, am I right? For me at MKM, that looks like updating pricing, updating contracts, prepping for taxes, assessing profit/loss, etc. as I make a game plan for structure and services in 2022. But I didn’t start out in my first year (or the first 4!) knowing how to do this. Do you? Do you know which areas of your business you need to focus on building next year? Do you know which steps to take to make those improvements? As you know, revenue does NOT equal profit or take home pay in your business. So how do we grow more than just the gross revenue and actually make some money in 2022? Thankfully, my friend Janey Stahl is a fractional CFO and she is an expert in just this type of thing. She helps business owners see that sustainable profitability requires high performance in all areas of their business. And with her expertise, she guides them through the process of analyzing profit, offers, services, products, and time spend so that business owners can work smarter in the exact areas that will keep their business working profitably for years to come. Right now, Janey is offering a free assessment to help you determine which area of your business could be improved in ’22 and it’s FREE! In this guide she walks through creating your unique business plan for next year and identify specific steps you should take to strengthen your business’ foundation! Go to janeystahl.com/smallminded to download the free assessment today! Psst: If you’d like to hear more from Janey, head to episode 54 of the Small-Minded Podcast for her inspiring story of entrepreneurship and financial tips for business owners of any size.
Can you believe it? We are in our very first episode of the New Year! How did we go through 50 episodes in the last year and how are we already in 2022? As we begin this new year, I know there are a lot of you who have set resolutions. At the beginning of every year, I set goals and this year I want to touch on things we maybe don’t have goals set for. I’m talking social media and digital usage. Social media is an extension of what we do and not everything with social media is BAD. Think about it…at our finger tips we have ways to research, connect with people halfway around the world, and during a pandemic we are able to continue distance learning and growing our businesses. What I purpose we do with our time on the podcast today is not dwell on the negative of social media, instead focus on seven steps to make social media better. Some of these are just reflections and some require you to take small actions, but they are all small ways to remind ourselves social media comes back to the people it connects us to. 1. Vision: how do you feel about social right now? Body? Mind? Why do you feel that way? 2. Negative feelings 3. Positive feelings - how have you made positive connections? 4. Intentional Interactions 5. What’s a gratitude? 6. What energy do you bring to your social spaces? Lurker? Encourager? Prayer? 7. What are you going to do?
Chilled Commercial Guys…we need to talk about something personal…your dinner. My friend Lindsy at Chilled Freezer meals helps make dinner simple and convenient while using whole ingredients that you can feel good about putting on the table. Visit chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded to see what Lindsy and her team have in store for you. AND to sweeten the deal, first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Again that’s chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded AND first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Psst: if you’d like to hear a little more about Lindsy’s story and how she’s grown her Chilled business, head to Episode 56 of the podcast! SIS Commercial To learn more about the sisterhood and to try it absolutely free for 7 days, head to sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded. That’s sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded for 7 days of workouts, healthy recipes, encouragement, motivation, friendship, and fitness, at absolutely no cost to you. Sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded Psst: if you’d like to hear a little more about Coach Erika’s story and how she’s grown the Sisterhood, head to Episode 27 of the podcast! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
“I know, let’s do a 2022 planning and projecting episode, that would be unique and fun” said every business podcast host ever! Ha! Today I don’t want to do what every other host is doing: sharing success, giving tips, vibing you up. I’m going to share where I sucked throughout ’21. Yep, the bad, the bruised, the ugly, and the things I’m ashamed to admit. For an enneagram 3 like me, this is a bit of a struggle, but I’m going to lean in to the discomfort to show you that no Instagrammable business is perfect. Every business owner is working through some things behind the scenes. And today I’m sharing all the ways I messed up in 2021 and how I’m course-correcting for 2022. 1. Business as a whole 2. 1. Head down action - not as much learning this year 2. Communications with my team - Asana, quarterly meetings, weekly emails - 2022 incorporate trainings for specific MKM methods 3. Waiting too long to bring on a dedicated MKM employee - know the difference between IC and W2 and you’ll know when that shift needs to happen - already full again ha! 4. Overcommitting - I still do this - changing habits 1. Too often I said “I’m just not good with money” - avoid it - worked with Bo & Sheila Hansen - working through the discomfort of being someone who regularly checks financials 2. Made it hard and stressful - trying a money mindset shift, following more investing/finance on IG, working with professionals, building habits 3. Finances 1. Not enough friend time 4. Friendships 1. I worked too much - let my schedule take over. I love work, so I find myself wanting to do that because it lights me up and I’m good at it 2. Get stressed a lot at home - my attitude dictates my kids’ attitude 5. Family 1. therapy 2. Talking about my feelings instead of avoiding them 3. Learning more 4. Accountability buddies 5. Physical fitness 6. Personal Development
Listeners, I’m so excited to have you here. It’s the week of Christmas and I know you are probably running around but I’m grateful you’re listening and being a part of Small-Minded this week. Today’s episode is action oriented as I give specific and clear instructions on how to boost your engagement with minimal effort and minimal time. So how do you do this? First, I would open a Google Doc, Dropbox Paper, or a notebook to jot these down as you go. Facebook Platform: 1. Facebook creator studio or business suite 2. Posts & Stories tab 3. Scroll through and find your top 1-5 posts with the highest reach
Option 2 for Facebook Platform: 1. Insights tab - content 2. Change date range to “this year” 3. Click “ads and posts” - uncheck ads 4. Select Facebook or Instagram 5. Click on reach, likes & reactions, comments, shares, saves to see which posts rise to the top
Instagram from your phone: 1. Go to your account 2. Hit the hamburger menu 3. Select insights from the pop up menu 4. Click “content you shared” 5. Be sure that date range is set to “last year” 6. Adjust for the metric you wish to measure
On December 26, create and schedule a post that says how much you love to reflect at this time of year and look back on what resonated most with your followers in the past 12 months, like a VH1 annual countdown - I lived for those. From 12/27-12/31 copy and paste and schedule your most reached post. 1. Copy and paste and schedule your most commented 2. Most shared 3. Most viewed 4. Most clicked
Best part: it’s done AND it’s already proven to be highly engaging content MKM SOCIAL SCHOOL IS OPEN COMMERCIAL Feeling happy, free, confused, and lonely all at the same time? Sometimes business ownership can be miserable and magical, yeah? Especially at this time of year! But don't worry business owner, everything will be all right if you keep me next to you! I'm Molly, and I've helped small-town small businesses strategically market their businesses on social media for over 5 years. We approach marketing in the small town way: so that it's more authentic, less sales-y, and more effective. And next year from January-March, I'm sharing my best marketing strategies with YOU! I don't know about you, but I'm feeling '22! Starting in January, we are going to dive into your 2022 business goals and outline your marketing strategy in your social media, website, and email marketing so you don't have any more blank spaces in your marketing calendar and you can grow the business of your wildest dreams. You know all too well what it feels like to try to market your products and services on the fly. With this 12-week program, you'll know when and how to talk about your 2022 offers and feel confident that your marketing efforts are working for you. ...are you ready for it? Training Topics January: Social Marketing 101 (overview of socials - pick your poison) February: Website Best Practices March: Email Marketing Best Practices Who is this for? * Small town small business owners * Business owners who want to know not only what to say but how to say it * Business owners who want to bring all their marketing channels together so they work together to tell your story and authentically connect with your audience & community * Want to network with other small business owners * Work well in an online format
Get all the details on signing up at mollyknuthmedia.com/shop! Janey Stahl Coaching Its year end and you're probably reviewing 2021s performance as you prep and plan for next year, right? For me at MKM, that looks like updating pricing, updating contracts, prepping for taxes, assessing profit/loss, etc. as I make a game plan for structure and services in 2022. But I didn’t start out in the first year (or the first 4!) knowing how to do this. Do you? Do you know which areas of your business you need to focus on building next year? Do you know which steps to take to make those improvements? As you know, revenue does NOT equal profit or take home pay in your business. So how do we grow more than just the gross revenue and actually make some money in 2022? Thankfully, my friend Janey Stahl is a fractional CFO and she is an expert in just this type of thing. She helps business owners see that sustainable profitability requires high performance in all areas of their business. And with her expertise, she guides them through the process of analyzing profit, offers, services, products, and time spend so that business owners can work smarter in the exact areas that will keep their business working profitably for years to come. Right now, Janey is offering a free assessment to help you determine which area of your business could be improved in ’22 and it’s FREE! In this guide she walks through creating your unique business plan for next year and identify specific steps you should take to strengthen your business’ foundation! Go to janeystahl.com/smallminded to download the free assessment today! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Hey listener! Thanks for tuning in. Today we’re digging into Molly Knuth Media Social School. In the last year, we’ve added this twelve week program to help small business owners stay accountable and assist with their marketing goals. Today, students from our social school are sharing their highlights. I’m certain you’ll be inspired and be able to connect as they share their experience of being a small town business owner. Take a listen as they share triumphs and downfalls of social media marketing. MKM SOCIAL SCHOOL WAITLIST COMMERCIAL What are your goals for 2022 in your business? Do they include increasing sales? Improving customer service? Starting an email list? Launching that new idea? FINALLY understanding social media algorithms??? My friends, you are NOT alone! MKM’s signature marketing education program for small town small businesses is relaunching in January 2022 to help you reach your goals next year. We’ll work together for 12 weeks to better understand marketing for your business, HOW to market your services and products across a variety of digital platforms, and give you the tools and resources to help make this process more efficient. If you’d like to be the first to know our Winter MKM Social School details, be sure to get on the waitlist at tinyurl.com/mkmsocialschool SIS COMMERCIAL If you want to experience the Sweat Inspire Sisterhood community this season, head to sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded to get started with her 7-day free trial and get an all-access pass to her sisterhood membership for FREE! You’ll also get added to her email list with exclusive freebies each week AND information about her upcoming Drop 10 program that helps you lose 10 pounds or 10 inches in just 12 weeks…trust me, it works and the next round starts January 3. That’s sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded for 7 days of workouts, healthy recipes, encouragement, motivation, friendship, and fitness, at absolutely no cost to you. Sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded
IT’S MAILBAG TIME! Fresh this week is an episode answering all of your questions! On Instagram, followers submitted the musings on their hearts and minds, and we dive into each with short segments in Episode 66 of Small-Minded. If you’d like Molly to answer one of your burning questions about small towns or small business, send us a message on one of the social platforms linked below! We may just use it in a future mailbag episode! Hot mentions in the episode: * How to grow a local following on Instagram? 1. Include your location tag in stories and include your store front address in your bio. 2. Use hashtags that involve your location. 3. Plan out stories where you can include other locations and businesses that people will recognize. * Is there a way to avoid fake accounts being created on Instagram? There is no way to prevent this, but you can educate your followers on what is happening. As you educate your audience, word will spread and these hacker accounts will dwindle. * What do you notice about reach and engagement dropping? Ever since the Facebook outage in October, the recording of the metrics on both Facebook and Instagram have been glitchy. There are a lot of inconsistancies, just be a critical thinker. If you’re noticing dwindling in accounts, think to yourself, would you “like or share” this post if you were scrolling? Do you need a fresh perspective? Also, think if ads could benefit what you’re trying to accomplish. * What are your best morning and evening routines? I used to have a very strict routine, but in this season, I’m approaching things with more flexibility. * Ways to get people in small towns excited for change and growth? If you want change to happen you need to get buy-in from community members. * If you apply for a grant, can you keep applying? When you’re looking to apply for grants I would recommend going to your city administrator and also work with organizations in the community next to you. * How do I hire a VA? If you’re ready to outsource a variety of tasks, it might be time to get a VA. There are VAs that specialize in different things. Bringing in a virtual assistant can help you get more done in less hours and also get a fresh perspective. MKM actually has VA offerings, reach out for more information!
CHILLED COMMERCIAL Visit chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded to see what Lindsy and her team have in store for you. AND to sweeten the deal, first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Again that’s chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded AND first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Psst: if you’d like to hear a little more about Lindsy’s story and how she’s grown her Chilled business, head to Episode 56 of the podcast! MKM SOCIAL SCHOOL WAITLIST COMMERCIAL What are your goals for 2022 in your business? Do they include increasing sales? Improving customer service? Starting an email list? Launching that new idea? FINALLY understanding social media algorithms??? My friends, you are NOT alone! MKM’s signature marketing education program for small town small businesses is relaunching in January 2022 to help you reach your goals next year. We’ll work together for 12 weeks to better understand marketing for your business, HOW to market your services and products across a variety of digital platforms, and give you the tools and resources to help make this process more efficient. If you’d like to be the first to know our Winter MKM Social School details, be sure to get on the waitlist at tinyurl.com/mkmsocialschool Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Today’s guests are super exciting, my friends. You read that right, not just one but TWO guests are joing us on the podcast this week! You will hear and feel the energy they bring throughout this episode. This week we welcome Lindsay Leahy and Brooke Fitzgerald, two of the powerhouses behind The Restoration Project in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. At The Restoration Project, their team works with small business owners and corporate entities to help bring meaning back to the work they do. Lindsay, Brooke, and their team, help build dreams and energy, create calm or structure, and help businesses dig deep into what they really stand for beyond just the tasks they complete in the day-to-day. Through their coaching and leadership services, The Restoration Project’s clients can get clear on their vision for the future and take specific, targeted, conscious actions to get their teams to the big goal. Trust me, you won’t want to sleep on this episode. I couldn’t even note all the insightful quotes they dropped, and I know you’ll be lit up and inspired after hearing their perspectives on work and life. Enjoy this chat with my friends Lindsay and Brooke of The Restoration Project! Follow The Restoration Project and Their Team Learn more about the members of The Restoration Project team and their upcoming leadership and personal development opportunities get on their email list at the-restorationproject.com. Or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for all their amazing, uplifting content and meaningful lessons. Visit Our Sponsors Sweat Inspire Sisterhood As a business owner and mom, I’ve learned that I need time for myself each day that is set aside for me to just focus and be. No client requests or emails, no “mooooooommmm I need haaaallllpppp”s, and nothing to respond to in-the-moment. For some me time might look like a bubble bath or reading a book or chilling with your favorite series on Netflix, but for me and about 600 other women, it looks like Sweat Inspire Sisterhood, an online fitness membership and community of women that allows me to get stronger and healthier from the comfort of my own home. Every day you’ll find me in my basement either before the kids wake up or after they’re in bed, so I can have 30-40 minutes of dedicated time to work on myself. Sometimes that looks like strength training with my dumbbells, other times it looks like a 40-minute HIIT workout where I burn 400+ calories, or even yoga or Zumba. In addition to the daily live workouts and library of prerecorded options, Coach Erika at SIS also puts together weekly meal plans, grocery lists, and recipes, to help me keep my nutrition in line with my goals. To learn more about the sisterhood and to try it absolutely free for 7 days, head to sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded. Chilled Freezer Meals My friend Lindsy at Chilled Freezer meals helps make dinner simple and convenient while using whole ingredients that you can feel good about putting on the table. Chilled offers fully frozen meals for local pick up and home delivery to communities throughout Eastern Iowa, AND she also ships meal bundles nationwide. They have convenient options for conventional meals including quick prep ideas for the crockpot or Instant Pot, as well as choices for those following a gluten friendly or keto lifestyle. With budget friendly options in sizes from single serve to portions for large families, they’ve got something to fit your budget and needs…even for those picky palattes like you find at my house :) We love the breakfast burritos - make mornings a dream - and her single-serve meal bundles that are perfectly portioned for those work from home lunches or days when the kids are off school. Visit chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded to see what Lindsy and her team have in store for you. AND to sweeten the deal, first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED.
How do you know it’s time to start something new in your business? Or…how do you know when to start? Typically, for me it’s when I get this feeling of discomfort. I get so uncomfortable, I can’t stay in the same place. Pause and reflect. Where are you feeling discomfort right now? What are some skills unique to you that can help you address this problem and how can you take that to others to help them address this problem in their lives as well? This might me in your personal life, business, or community. Think about how you can make this better with action steps. The process of getting into the nitty gritty can take a long time, or it can be rushed through. When you are smaller and newer you can be nimble, the bigger you get the more time you need to allow to follow the steps. I would encourage you to make sure your idea is not just a good idea to yourself, a good resource for this is the book “Building a Story Brand” by Donald Miller. Reach out to others in your potential market. Don’t get too caught up in the details. I prefer to launch at 70 percent. Lastly, make sure you have a distinct time period where you are talking everyday about your particular product. Sweat Inspire Sisterhood Commercial Sugar cookies, adult beverages, and potatoes…oh my! In my 20s I thought the time between Thanksgiving and New Year were for two things: indulging on the weekends and then limiting caloric intake throughout the week. Then when I flipped into the New Year, I’d plan to lose all the weight I had gained and really get my life on track. Not surprisingly…that didn’t work. It was only when I learned about proper nutrition approach from my fitness coach Erika Hermsen that I was finally able to work WITH my body during the holiday season (and shocker: it doesn’t involve indulging OR restriction, just balance!) Her weekly grocery lists, meal plans, and delicious healthy recipes help me balance my macros (aka: carbs, proteins, and fats) so that I can stay on track with my goals while eating foods that don’t make me feel like I’m on a diet. What I love about Erika’s programs is that the nutrition education and recipes also come with daily live workouts and access to her app with 1000+ prerecorded workouts. So whether you like lifting weights or running on the treadmill, 7-minute booty burners or 50-minute sweat sessions, you can find something you are interested in that fits YOUR schedule. AND you are surrounded in support by Erika, her team of coaches, and 600+ other women who are working alongside you and cheering you on to your goals. If you want to experience the Sweat Inspire Sisterhood community this season, head to sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded to get started with her 7-day free trial and get an all-access pass to her sisterhood membership for FREE! You’ll also get added to her email list with exclusive freebies each week AND information about her upcoming Drop 10 program that helps you lose 10 pounds or 10 inches in just 12 weeks…trust me, it works and the next round starts January 3. That’s sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded for 7 days of workouts, healthy recipes, encouragement, motivation, friendship, and fitness, at absolutely no cost to you. Sweatinspiresisterhood.com/smallminded Psst: if you’d like to hear a little more about Coach Erika’s story and how she’s grown the Sisterhood, head to Episode 27 of the podcast! Chilled Commerical I don’t want a lot for Christmas…but if I could get a little help around the house or with holiday prep, that would be great! Thankfully, my friend Lindsy at Chilled Freezer Meals has my back. Not only does she make meal and snack time more convenient with her fully frozen meals for local pick up and home delivery to communities throughout Eastern Iowa. BUT she also ships meal bundles nationwide, and this holiday season she also offers gifting options for those on your holiday shopping list! Check out the new Chilled Favorites Bundle packed with five of Chilled’s best-selling meals. The Favorites Bunlde includes her bbq cheddar meatloaves, mini lasagnas, breakfast burritos, tuscan chicken pasta, and parmesan meatball bake. Perfect for those who want to give the gift of time and ease this holiday season. Plus, you’ll be supporting the local, small businesses and farmers that Chilled sources from in their recipes. Got a new mama on your list? Shop Chilled’s New Mama Meal Bundle with single-serve meals and soups, protein cubes, lactation granola, and new mom affirmation cards to make the transition into motherhood a little easier. And for those hard-to-shop-for-folks on your list, Chilled also offers digital gift cards so they can choose their own meal delivery at a later date. Listeners of the Small-Minded Podcast can visit chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded to shop these options and more during the holiday season. AND to sweeten the deal, first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Again that’s chilledfreezermeals.com/pages/smallminded AND first time customers can get 10% off their order by using promo code SMALLMINDED. Psst: if you’d like to hear a little more about Lindsy’s story and how she’s grown her Chilled business, head to Episode 56 of the podcast! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Welcome Kari Jo Kelso of Rosebud’s Tees to the podcast! Kari accidentally started her business six years ago after she graduated veterinary school. She was looking for a side hustle to help fund her air travel back home to visit family and while as she always loved drawing, she simply googled one day how to get one of her sketches on a t-shirt. After taking baby steps for the past five years, 2021 was the year Kari Jo was able to officially go part-time and now use both her creative outlet with her t-shirts as well as her degree in veterinarian medicine. Kari Jo is such an inspiration and I know you’re going to love the wisdom she drops during this episode! Shop Rosebud’s Tees Show your small-town, rural love with apparel and products from Rosebuds Tees! Follow Kari Jo on Instagram, Facebook, and visit her store Online!
I cannot believe we are weeks away from the holiday happenings! I’m pretty excited to chat with you today to help you plan and prep your social for those dates like Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. If you’re not a business that plans to partake in these specific shopping days, no worries you can use these strategies throughout the year as well! Key Takeaways * Small-town businesses can still participate in these big holiday sales offers even if you’re a service based business. Think how you can offer something digitally or a bogo gift card! * If you’re a product based business, the sky is the limit! Bogos, gift cards, discount codes, free merchandise and so much more! * Think through all of the steps to make sure your team knows how to handle the holiday offer. * With it only being a few weeks away, make sure you give yourself a realistic goal. * When I have an idea and begin to put some of the pieces together, I begin advertising when I’m about 70% of the way there. * Start talking about it and rolling it out on social media to make people aware to follow your page for the details. * Post once if not twice on the day the sale is actually happening. This gives you maximum opportunity for sales. * Document your process so you can look back and see what did and do not work.
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Today, I’m SO honored to welcome Lillie Beringer to the podcast. Lillie is a third generation FarmHer from just outside of Cascade, Iowa. Being one of twenty-six grandchildren, Lillie is the only one who has taken over the family farm. At the age of twenty-five, Lillie purchased the family farm. She is primarily a beef farmer with row crops to feed her livestock. But, not only is Lillie a FarmHer, she is also a feed sales rep for her day job. I am so excited to introduce Lillie to you all and have her share her passion for agriculture and business! Key Takeaways * Under a tight timeline, Lillie was told she only had sixty days to buy the family farm. After being rejected three times, Lillie was not giving up until her loan was approved. * Working with cow-calf owners in her day job, Lillie had great resources to figure out her budget and make a cow-calf operation work in order to make payments on the land. * The gap from farmers to consumers is growing further a part everyday, in response to this, Lillie began a social media page to share what she was doing from day to day. * After taking a course and finding a locker, Lillie was able to launch her beef business selling retail cuts to the public. She offers farm pick-up and ships to all fifty states. * “Small Businesses all around want to see you succeed and they want to help out,” Lillie remarks on the friendship, opportunities, and connections from surrounding small businesses. * “I have so much good that has come from my Facebook and Instagram.” One thing has led to another through social media and given Lillie collaborations and inspiration.
Connect with Lillie! Follow all that Lillie does in a day and check out her beef business by checking out Beringer Family Farms on Facebook, Instagram, and her website! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Welcome to this Halloween Week episode of the Small-Minded Podcast! This week we’re going to chat about spooky social media blunders you may have encountered or could encounter in the future while marketing your small business online. Take a listen to my spooky social stories with tips to combat the situation if it happens to you! * Spooky Social Story #1 - I know it has become more commonplace that when individuals are hired, social media is brought up. I think it’s valid to have a conversation with your new hires on your social media policies and what you prefer your employees do. * Spooky Social Story #2 - Negative reviews hurt, but if we have a space on social at least we can see those negative things and address the situation. * Spooky Social Story #3 - There are three steps I recommend to prevent your account from getting hacked. * + Make sure your account is connected to an email address you use regularly. + Change your password quarterly. + Set-up two factor authentication. * Spooky Social Story #4 - Live videos can be hard. My rule of thumb is sleep on it and if you’re still uncomfortable with it the next morning, take it down. Typos and dead links happen, just go in and edit! * Spooky Social Story #5 - We can’t control what people say but what you can control is your reaction to it and your own response. “If you wouldn’t say it face to face don’t say it on social media.”
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Today I’m sitting down with my friend, Melissa Nelson, creator of Hungry Canyon. Melissa manages it ALL and she does it ALL well. She manages being a mom, teacher, farm wife, business owner and so much more! Melissa grew up in a Nebraska, yes she’s a Cornhusker, but don’t hold that against her! Melissa wears many hats as you’ll hear in today’s episode, but her entrepreneurial outlet, Hungry Canyon is something you have to check out! Hungry Canyon makes agriculturally accurate greeting cards and gifts. Melissa is full of inspiration, Hungry Canyon cards are hilarious, and if you have any connection at all to agriculture, you have have to listen to this week’s episode! Key Takeaways * “When you grow up in ag, it’s just in your blood and becomes your lifestyle.” Melissa loved growing up on her family farm alongside her two sisters. It has instilled in her a work ethic passion for agriculture. * Agriculture in the Classroom is a national program and looks different all across the United States. The semester before graduating college, Melissa knew she wanted to work in agriculture. After sending an email of interest, Melissa was given the position and since it has become her legacy project. * “Sometimes your dream job can change.” While Melissa helps her students plan their seven month externship before graduation she constantly reminds them that thoughts and feelings about your dream job can change. * Hungry Canyon is the bright spot in many people’s week when they receive one of Melissa’s greeting cards. * “My business is so niched down, but I found those people and I’ve been able to grow.” Only 2% of the US is involved in agriculture but Melissa has found the people that connect with this and her creative outlet.
Shop Hungry Canyon Follow Hungry Canyon on Instagram and Facebook. Shop on the Website. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Welcome friends to another episode of Small-Minded! It’s no secret, I love small towns, small businesses, and small-town people. I’m excited to be here for another week to discuss TWO things, Facebook and small-town homecoming traditions. Last Monday was a busy day and in the middle of a mastermind having wonderful conversation, some ladies started to notice Facebook was down. After going to downdector.com I quickly realized there was a massive global Facebook outage. As a business owner, remember social media is just a part of your marketing. There are going to be days with glitches. We can not make physical or technical changes to the software, we are using what others have built for free. Remember, we cannot control that, we are borrowing the space. I challenge you to think bigger. Where else can you market your business other than Facebook that also involves a physical component? Now lets talk fun stuff, like small-town homecoming. The painted windows, Friday pep rally, band blaring music, and parades, still give me chills about small-town homecoming celebrations. Take a listen to Episode 59 of the Small-Minded Podcast for all my reminiscing of what makes small towns SO special. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
This is one of those episodes, friends. An episode where not only do you want to listen once for understanding, but one that you might want to take a re-listen to and have a pen and paper handy for notes. This week we’re digging into branding for your business. I know, I know. There are a million other experts who can speak to this topic in more informed ways than I can, but I think it’s important to know that even if you operate a small business in a small town, you have a brand. And your brand isn’t just encapsulated in a .jpg file that is your logo. A brand is what you stand for. A brand is the code of morals and ethics that you believe in through your products, purchases, decisions, and donations. A brand is all the colors you use and how they make your followers feel. A brand is a personality that potential customers and clients pick up on through your social media posts, print marketing, the way you write, and the photos you take. It tells them who YOU are, and who they can BECOME if they work with you. So how do you go from branding with a simple logo to having a whole brand strategy? Take a listen to Episode 58 of the Small-Minded Podcast for all my best tips that you can implement today! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Hey listener! We’re taking it back today to a shorter episode, which I actually had not planned but decided it would be great content after I had a listener email me a few questions. There are a whole bunch of quote on quote social media rules, but the best way to get going with social media marketing for your business is to get started. It doesn’t have to be professional photos, produced videos, or the perfect caption, it just has to be you showing up. Key Takeaways * There are many platforms to manage. At Molly Knuth Media we mostly manage Facebook and Instagram platforms for our clients. I choose Facebook because it’s a great local marketing tool. I choose Instagram because it allows you to reach a bigger audience through the use of hashtags. * I started in social media marketing by accident. As an English and Language Arts Teacher, I took to Facebook to get more books for my classroom. I then began sharing the responses from students with Facebook and I ended up with more than 500 books for my classroom. * After deciding to become a stay at home mom, I helped our community work towards getting a new daycare through posting video and pictures on Facebook. We were strategic with videos to tell a story and share with the community the need and wants for the new daycare. After word of mouth on the services I was able to provide through Facebook and how it could be used for a business, the rest is history! * Everyone has their own belief, likes and dislikes when it comes to what makes a good post. I operate by the “E’s.” I want to either educate, evoke an emotion, or e-commerce. * In addition, I want each post to have an attention grabbing graphic, a caption to compliment the graphic, and a call to action. * When looking at a time of the day to post, it’s important to think of your audience and when they are most likely to have down time. * Your caption matters! It communicates the big takeaway you want people to have.
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Welcome listeners, today is a fun one and I cannot wait for you to listen! Lindsy Trotter, owner of Chilled Freezer Meals joins Small-Minded to share her business story, strategies, and all the yumminess she has created! Owning a business wasn’t something Lindsy always thought she would do, she had a safe 9-5 job as an educator but after deciding to stay at home with her kids, she started to make freezer meals to fulfill time and the rest is history! Today we go all in with Lindsy, you’ll get a listen into Lindsy’s driven personality and I know her story and perspective on business are going to leave you with a lot of great takeaways in life and business! Key Takeaways * As an enneagram 3, Lindsy always wanted to check the next box. She got her Bachelor’s Degree, Masters’ Degree, and was going after the next step when she realized it was something she was doing because it was the next step not because she wanted to. * “You start small and very slowly it grows.” Chilled typically preps meals in 30-40 batches. It started with batches of 10 and once they got good at that it grew to 20 and once they got good at 20 it grew even more. * “Turn around and look at the little steps along the way that you’ve accomplished, don’t downplay where you’re at.” A lot of times we start following people on social media and we see where their business is at now. We don’t see where they were at in the beginning. * “Social Media is such a great place to show your customers who you are and what your mission is.” Taking social media trainings is one of the first things Lindsy invested in and was essential in her growth. * Lindsy reached out to her county Iowa State Extension and the Small Business Association when developing plans and layout for her kitchen. There are so many intelligent people in our area just waiting to be utilized with their services. * Chilled freezer meals gives back in so many ways between donating meals to using locally sourced beef in her meals.
Shop with Chilled! Want to try Chilled for yourself? Follow Chilled and shop through their website, Instagram, and Facebook! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Investing in Your Business Straight up: I feel super uncomfortable and highly unqualified to be speaking on today’s topic, but I thought “If I have questions about when and how to invest in my business, I bet my followers do too.” So here we are. With all the promises of making money by taking a workshop with that business coach, or growing by adding on another team member, or simply purchasing a new piece of equipment, it can be hard to know which is right for you and how much is too much to invest. So in what is likely my most unqualified solocast thus far here on Small-Minded, here are ways I’ve invested in my business so far (both the good and the bad!) and what I’ve learned along the way. Key Takeaways * Investing in your business isn’t always about the up-front cost. Think about the return you will get on that investment of your resources. * Ask yourself: How long will it take me to make this money back? * Invest in Education: When I felt unsure, stagnant, or lost professionally in the past, I knew I worked through it best when I focused on growing my knowledge base. So that’s something I’ve come back to time and again as I grew Molly Knuth Media: if I feel adrift or uncomfortable, that’s probably a sign that I have learning to do on that topic. Ask yourself: How will I be able to make money based upon what I learn in this workshop/course/mastermind? Do I vibe with the instructor? Is this presented in a way that fits my learning style? * Invest in Tools/Equipment: Sometimes upgrading the tools or equipment you work with can reduce the time and frustration you have to exert. Over the years I’ve brought in softwares that will help my team communicate and track projects better, updated my computer, and purchased entirely new products that I can turn around and monetize via a new offer at MKM. When deciding which tools and equipment to invest in, I ask myself the same questions: How will I pay for this? How long will it take me to get a return on my investment? Will it allow me to better serve my clients? * Invest in People: To grow your business, at some point you will likely need to lean on others. Whether it’s bringing in a person on your payroll as a W-2 employee or a skilled independent contractor on a project-by-project or monthly basis or bringing in a Virtual Assistant to complete specific tasks you have lots of options to invest in people. * Trust your gut.
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Listeners, welcome today my friend, Janey Stahl! I’m so excited to have Janey here on the podcast to share her journey as a successful entrepreneur. As a Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Janey helps businesses achieve all of their entrepreneurial goals around finances. While wearing many hats and taking a lot of big risks to make her business successful, Janey uses her strategic strength to provide a comprehensive approach to businesses. You’ll get a listen into Janey’s driven personality in today’s episode, and I know her story and perspectives on small business finances are going to leave you with desire to organize your business decisions ! Key Takeaways * Starting a business takes many risks and everyone’s journey is going to look different. * “You have to start somewhere.” Janey shares that she was in desperation for business and tried many strategies to meet people to become clients. * “You never know that person you randomly meet, how they’re going to serve you later on in life.” Someone might not take you up on your offer right away, but they could be a customer later on. * The best investment you’re going to make is within your business.
Connect with Janey! Ready to connect with Janey and organize your business financial goals? Check out her website and Facebook! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Wow, one whole year of Small Minded Podcast! 50 episodes of advice, tips, and milestones of small town business folks. With pride I put out this episode to talk about what I’ve learned in one year of podcasting. First and foremost if you have an idea, just start. Believe in yourself, flex that muscle of confidence, and lean into your intuition. Listen to others’ strategies and find new ways of doing things. “In the past year, the thing that keeps me going is sharing stories and sharing expertise of cool people in small towns. That’s what the driver is.” Make it fun. It takes work. It takes time. It takes research. But if you have a purpose it will keep you motivated to keep you going. Thank you, thank you, for being here and supporting us throughout the past year! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Today I welcome my goddaughter and MKM employee, Nora Noonan! Nora is here today to talk about her public education beginning in Bernard, Iowa. While being the only girl in her class until second grade and having two graduations by sixth grade, Nora reflects on class sizes, activities and trying new things! Nora has been able to experience many things throughout her high school years and is about to start her college academics at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa. Nora has taken it upon herself to go after every opportunity that has come her way, getting marketing and hands-on experience at Two Ginger’s Tavern, KDST Radio Station, and MKM. While also getting a taste of the labor intensive side by working for her family’s business, Noonan Fencing. Key Takeaways * “Public speaking class helped me in life just knowing how to market myself.” Nora talks about * The college credit process at the high school was a great opportunity for high school students like Nora to get a taste of the college course load and jump starting them into what college academics would be like. * “It’s about the people you meet and the connections you establish.” Nora reflects on all of the opportunities she has been given and not being afraid to try out different avenues. * “I’m super grateful I took a chance.” * “Try your own thing.” It’s easy to be associated with what other family has done in a small town. Doing your own thing is
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Mom of 4. Farmer. Life Coach. Podcaster. Friends, Addie Yoder comes to the podcast today with so many real tidbits on life. After being up to her elbows in farm life and babies, Addie began to lose touch of who she wanted to be. With the help of a life coach, she was able to make simple steps and move forward to live a life of freedom, purpose, and confidence. Now, certified herself through John Maxwell, Addie teaches others to do the same! While emphasizing personal growth, Addie guides her clients to find their purpose and make their dream-life a reality! Aside from life coaching, Addie loves to talk about corn and books. With a passion for corn knowledge, she shares with others facts about how rural agriculture is related to you. I’m telling you, this is a must listen! Key Takeaways * “It’s so important to have someone in your corner. Having someone to cheer you on, helps so much” After working with her life coach for three months, her life coach recommended she become a life coach herself. She never viewed herself in that lens, but her husband and friends did. * “You have do what works for you.” We have so much at our disposal with books, TED talks, podcasts, etc., but we have to do what works for ourselves. * “If I don’t pick up a book and learn for myself, I’m only going to get one tiny piece of the world and I’m never going to get those experiences to keep me well rounded.” When Addie goes to the capital to talk agriculture she realizes the importance of connecting with people of all perspectives and realizing the big picture.
Connect with Addie Yoder! Want more of Addie? Her words of wisdom and life coach tips can be found through her weekly emails, Grace & Growth Podcast, and Instagram. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
You guys. Today’s episode is a good one. Marissa Hoffmann co-owner and co-founder of The Midwest Girl joins me today to share the story of the family brand her sister and her started six years ago. The passion in Marissa’s voice is enough to know she loves what she does and it’s something magical. It hasn’t always been easy and the vulnerability Marissa shares throughout today’s episode is so honest and authentic. The Midwest Girl has so much to offer and I love that she is here today to share her story! Key Takeaways * “You might look back at what you did starting out and cringe a little bit, but it was a start and it’s brought us our success today.” * “Good things don’t happen overnight.” It took about four years for Midwest Girl to really take off and Marissa shares the struggles and determination it took to keep going. * “It’s not about reinventing the wheel every time.” You listen to your customers and look at your numbers. A lot of times simple is what people want. * A lot of times business growth starts with an idea that might not come from your own head. Marissa shares how wholesale merchandise has been a great additional income stream for their business. * “You just start and figure it out.” * Coming from a town of 1200 people and continuing to remember her roots, Marissa shares how the brand is built on community and being proud of where she comes from.
Check Out The Midwest Girl! Want to shop The Midwest Girl or follow their story? Check them out here: Shop Website, Facebook and Instagram! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
There are so many reasons to love rural agriculture, and my husband, Ryan Knuth, is one of those reasons…well for me at least! With three decades of farming as a 34 year old, Ryan shares his memories of growing up on their family farm, how their business has evolved, and his love for small-town life. Even with change, Knuth Farms LLC continues to practice diversified agriculture with being involved in the production of swine, cattle, and row crops. They are a three-generation farm with now having Ryan, his brother Eric, and sister Amanda involved in the day-to-day of the operation. A few of my takeaways, as I continue to learn about agriculture and modern technology: * There are many seasons to farming, in late July, Knuth’s will do their second cutting of hay and maintenance on the combine, trucks, and chopper to make sure all their equipment is ready for fall. After harvest, they will haul manure, clean/fix equipment, and begin getting ready for the next year. * “Fall is one of my favorite seasons because I like to see how the decisions were made and how they all came together.” Ryan remarks on how it’s exciting to measure and see the progress of the corn from year to year and field to field. * When one initially thinks of the benefits of farming you think food. This is an important aspect, but Ryan also acknowledges how in rural areas, businesses survive off each other. When they need a project done or the gas tank filled, they support local. * “Anything we send to the food line is antibiotic free at that time.” This is one of the biggest misunderstandings when it comes to food labeling and those shopping at the grocery store. * “It’s a good way to grow up, you learn work ethic, the responsibility to keep things alive. It’s just a good way to grow up.” Ryan appreciates the way he has grown up and it is part of the reason we have chosen to raise our kids the same way. * “People in small-towns help each other out. They don’t even bat an eye; they just show up.” Ryan recognizes the local businesses and people who continue to always be there for eachother.
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Today’s episode is full of super awesome advice for Instagram and best practices with the new updates made in 2021. Instagram is full of trendy features to market your business, but with so many options between IGTV, reels, stories, hashtags and photos, it can be hard to know what’s best for your audience. I’m here to share with you practical and SIMPLE social media marketing advice you can apply to your business Instagram today! Instagram Advice: 1. Hashtags. The goal of hashtags is for people to find what you have to offer and for you to find and interact with other people in your industry and get ideas. In addition, they can give you extra reach and coverage. * 5 minutes liking and interacting intentionally with other accounts. * 5 minutes looking up your location and seeing if there are any new businesses in the area you can associate and/or work with. * 5 minutes to engage bomb another account. 2. Spend 15 minutes a few times a week engaging with other accounts. 3. When you’re going to post, share something that is valuable. Second, think of what way you’re going to deliver this content. If you have limited time, I would recommend a story. If you’re going to make a post, put time into your caption. If you’re wanting more reach, I would recommend a video as Instagram is now favoring and rewarding videos by giving you more reach. 4. Keep it simple. Think of what you needed when you started out your business, create value for that person.
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Today, I’m SO honored to welcome my mentor and role model (even if she doesn’t know that yet), Ms. Kelly Jo Simon. Kelly is the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment (or the CIA) for Western Dubuque County Community School District in Iowa. Being the Director of the CIA is no small task. For one, the size of the WDCCSD makes it the largest in the state of Iowa in terms of square miles (555 sq mi). They serve students and families from five counties for a total of over 3000 students. In addition to the logistical challenges that poses for Kelly and her colleagues, her role has her also requires her to lead educators and administrators in each of the district’s eight schools in addition to the students in her charge. It is truly a feat. During her time in her role, Kelly has gone from trying to organize schools and curriculum to creating a culture of happiness, success, and opportunity. During her tenure, WDCCSD has become a sought-after district for young families, but also for people looking for a job in education. I am honored and excited to share this interview with my friend Kelly with all of you here at Small-Minded today. Key Takeaways * The hardest question she’s ever been asked is “what is your role?” * “What are you willing to struggle for?” She believes that this is the question we should be asking young people when helping them plan for themselves and their futures. * She was told in high school that she wasn’t college material. She said she owned responsibility for the choices she had made to get to that conversation with her guidance counselor, but that helped her forge forward to go to college. * “Be careful labelling potential in their high school years.” A student/child cannot have their potential defined in their formative years. * “One of the best and most humbling parts of small town living is owning up to your past mistakes…Embrace it, move forward, you don’t run.” Just because it was your story then, doesn’t mean it is your story forever. The faster you own up to it, the faster you can move on. * “Our product is people.” In order to provide the best education for all students, Kelly and the district’s admin team have created a culture around The Happiness Advantage. This approach helps teachers and staff find what makes them happy and choose happy, so they can take that into their classrooms and share the same concept with their students. * And a TON more. Make sure to listen in to the full episode for all the gold that Kelly shares about her philosophy on education and what WDCCSD is doing right to care for all the kids in their district.
Connect with Kelly! Follow all that Kelly, her colleagues, and her students are doing at www.wdbqschools.org or follow Kelly at @kellyjosimon on Twitter. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Hi, friends! Welcome back to the Small-Minded Podcast! Today I’m excited to bring to you episode 3 of my first jobs series. A few weeks ago I shared with you all of the details from one of my first job experiences at the local manufacturing plant. While working at the local manufacturing plant taught me many skills and helped with my high school spending, my university years were upon me and I needed to decide what I’d like to do with the rest of my life. Having no clue what I really wanted to do, I went to the University of Northern Iowa with an open-mind and after a year of completing my general education credits and still having no clue, I took a personality assessment. My personality assessment told me I’d align well with being a teacher, so low and behold I decided to become a middle school and high school language arts teacher! What I learned in my Teaching Career: I began my teaching career filling long-term substitute positions and then accepted a job at our local private school teaching reading, math, social studies, and religion. After a position opened up at our public school, I was hired and I taught reading/language arts for two years before I became pregnant with our third child in four years and decided to become a stay at home mom. A few things I learned and loved about teaching: 1. I lived for the lightbulb moment. 2. I loved making the content relatable and modern for the students. 3. I wanted the kids to understand learning doesn’t just happen in a classroom, we are at our best when we are lifelong learners. 4. When you show up to the job, you might not have all the answers. 5. The energy and confidence I brought into the room set the tone for the kids. 6. The importance of organization and scheduling. Listen to the podcast to see how I’ve adjusted my strategy and became better at pivoting quickly. 7. Most importantly, it’s okay to step away from things you love.
Truly, each part of work history comes together to shape who we are as a person, employee, or boss. It is up to us as small business owners to remember those early jobs we held and the people who showed us how to be a leader, both good and bad, as we build missions and teams of our own. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
What’s your favorite coffee? If you answered anything other than a Bob & Lou’s salted caramel cold foam cold brew then you’re wrong and we can’t be friends. Just kidding! But seriously, today’s guest doesn’t just make my favorite cup of coffee, but she has an inspiring story about starting her dream business in a vintage coffee camper. So many times along her journey it seemed like she was faced with a roadblock, like when she was denied a loan from the first bank she approached or when COVID-19 hit and the world shut down. But just as it seemed her luck would run out, the starts aligned and something big would happen for Sarah. I love that she is only 25 years old and celebrating her first anniversary in business, but that she carries herself and her brand with a maturity that is wise beyond her years. From her advice about researching your product to serving your ideal market, today’s interview with Sarah Knabel of Bob & Lou’s coffee is one you will NOT want to miss! Key Takeaways * Learning about yourself, your strengths, your setbacks, and what suits and excites YOU is key in finding your business niche. * Sometimes serendipity happens. The stars align and luck is on your side as you’re getting the pieces of your business together. Run with it when opportunities present themselves! * “Don’t take ‘no’ as an answer.” * Silver linings: COVID-19 presented a lot of hardships and struggles in Eastern Iowa, but for Sarah it gave her the gift of time. She was able to step away from her bartending job, get clear on her vision, research and write a business plan, and get her coffee camper started. * Family is a cornerstone of her brand and business. * Being excited to come to work and sharing that excitement with customers is a tenant of the Bob & Lou’s business. * “There are so many amazing women entrepreneurs out there.” Sarah recommends networking to help you grow your brand awareness because these women are willing to share and help you out as you get your start. * And tons more stories and insights. Listen to the full episode for all that Sarah has to share!
Brew up some love for Bob & Lou’s! Want more of Sarah and my favorite coffee place in the world? You can find her @bobandlous on Facebook and Instagram, or visit www.bobandlous.com to browse the menu, check the camper calendar, or order some of her adorable merch! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
In different seasons of life, summer has meant many things, but it always brings me back to simplicity, enjoying the outdoors, and long sunny days. In this holiday season of 2021, I’m taking it back and sharing all of the small-town traditions from my childhood. Canoe trips, old navy flip flops, and babysitting jobs. Summer brings back so many memories and now as an adult, it’s amazing to see some of those same memories hold true with my kids. Many of these traditions happen because of the way our small town continues to come together to celebrate. Because of small business support, we’re able to celebrate Independence Day with inflatables, sugary lemonade, fireworks, games, and more! I hope you take time this summer and holiday season to enjoy the moments and memories to appreciate the smaller things. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Today, I introduce to you the newest member of the MKM team, Megan Knapp. Megan grew up in the city, moved to a small town, and now serves small town businesses as a virtual assistant! Covid-19 hit, schools shut down, and Megan began questioning whether teaching was the right career for her as she balanced being a mother and wife. After reaching out to Molly and seeing if there were any work from home opportunities, Megan jumped on as a virtual assistant for the MKM Team. In today’s episode you’ll get to listen to Megan’s virtual assistant roles and how her services can better help your business! Key Takeaways * What is it a virtual assistant does? A virtual assistant can be many things, but the biggest thing is they are remote and can help with a variety of tasks from e-mail marketing, organization needs, social media and more. * There are a variety of packages Megan offers. If you only need help with e-mail marketing she can help with that on an hourly basis, or if you need help with a lot of aspects of your business she can create a custom package fit to you. * A discovery call is one way Megan connects with businesses to get to know their needs and how she can support them. * Megan takes a lot of pride in the small town community and atmosphere. The support, connections, and trust is something she forever wants to be part of. * A few important skills Megan has transferred from teaching to her virtual assistant position are: organization, time management, online work, and interpersonal relationships. * “Anything you find yourself doing for your business that doesn’t light you up, a VA can definitely come in and support.”
Connect with Megan! Want Megan part of your business? E-mail megan@mollyknuthmedia.com to connect and see where she can help your business expand! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Hey business owner! Do you use Facebook for your business? Have you seen the big changes made in 2021 for your business page? Today, at Small-Minded, I’m walking you through the changes, struggles, and positives of the new Facebook layout for your small-town business! Facebook Changes and Features: 1. New layout. You now have to transition from your personal account to your business page. This is a major advantage because you no longer have the confusion of which account is being used for likes, comments, etc. Also, it will only show information from brands and businesses you want to connect with on behalf of your business. 2. Glitches. I’m an avid user of Creator Studio for planning out posts. However, I have been running into some problems when posting. Keep in mind anytime there is a new rollout there are going to be things that don’t work, often times I wait a day and the problem is fixed. You can always submit a claim to Facebook for constructive points. 3. Lower reach. I’m not sure if it’s algorithm, content, or the season but what I’m doing is taking new risks. Now is a time to stretch and try new things. 4. Facebook groups. I have joined groups that are specific to my client’s industry. These groups allow you to ask questions, gives you a little extra attention, and drives extra traffic to the Facebook page. 5. Ads. I have set-up ad campaigns to help increase engagement. 1. Take pictures of your town and share them out. 2. Share stories. 3. Talk about who you help. 4. Show up and share your face! 6. If you want to to return to your roots and grow organic traffic:
Step by Step Video from Molly! New Facebook Page Layout Walkthrough - Watch Video Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Hi friends, I believe so much of who we are as adults is molded by our experiences in our youth, particularly today’s topic of first jobs. I’m excited to bring to you episode 2 of my first jobs series. A couple of months ago I shared with you all the details from my very first job experience, waitressing. While waitressing taught me many applicable skills needed for the industry like customer service, punctuality, and time management, I was needing a little extra spending cash now that I had a car and I was hanging out with my friends more. I took a second job at one of our manufacturing facilities doing office work. I took away so much from working at this facility like being relatable, keeping my workspace clean, and all the soft skills. Job at the Local Manufacturing Facility Working for the local manufacturing plant brought many new realizations. I could set my own hours and I was now making minimum wage! What I thought was only going to be a job for the school year, turned into summers, holidays, and different positions around the business. A few things I learned from working for the manufacturing company: 1. People make the place that you work. If you have people who care about the people they work alongside it makes a huge difference. 2. Own your mistakes. 3. Take initiative and be creative and innovative no matter what industry you’re in. 4. Take the job and do your best.
HOW DO I USE THESE SKILLS TODAY While I couldn’t know at the time how these jobs as a youth would manifest in an entrepreneurial endeavor, so much of what I do today was learned by doing a job I didn’t love but was vital to get to where I wanted to go. Truly, each part of work history comes together to shape who we are as a teammate, employee, or boss today. And it is up to us as small business owners to remember those early jobs we held and the people who showed us how to be a leader, both good and bad, as we build missions and teams of our own. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
IT’S MAILBAG TIME! Fresh this week is an episode answering all of your questions! On Instagram, followers submitted the musings on their hearts and minds, and we dive into each with short segments in Episode 40 of Small-Minded. Today’s episode is all your small-business questions about donations, Mastermind groups, ambitions and engagement! If you’d like Molly to answer one of your burning questions about small towns or small business, send us a message on one of the social platforms linked below! We may just use it in a future mailbag episode! Hot links mentioned in the episode: * How to handle small town business donations * + Get clear with yourself on what you’re willing to do. + Ask yourself, is it an event/organization I value and love? + Don’t be afraid to kindly and clearly tell other sponsorship request it doesn’t fit in your business right now * Rural Women Owned Facebook Groups and Masterminds * + I recommend joining a group where you have to put a little skin in the game + When I pay for a Mastermind, I know I’m going to value my belonging and make time for that partnership + Start by looking at some rural groups you can belong to. + A few groups I suggest: + - Rural Revival Co - Rural Ideas Network - 5 MARYS - Empower Her Co * How to stay focused on your own goals without being tempted by other ambitions * + Outline your goals on paper so you can see how far you’ve come + You need to have times where you center yourself, get clear on if it is serving you, and then write down your goals * Tips for growing business Instagram engagement * + Check-in on stories with behind the scenes of your day to day + Spend time in your DMs + Use Instagram Reels + - MKM Reels Training Group + Be engaging yourself + Instagram Episodes of the podcast: + - https://mollyknuthmedia.com/2021/03/23/15-minutes-to-better-social-media/ - https://mollyknuthmedia.com/2021/02/23/reels-stories-igtv-oh-my/ - https://mollyknuthmedia.com/2020/11/10/3-ways-to-improve-your-social-media-marketing-today/ * How to price your services * + To begin I started creating packages with the base of $15 an hour + After the first year, reevaluate the prices + Let the businesses know you value them and appreciate their business + Look at what other businesses in the area are charging + Take a deep look on if your prices are serving you and your needs
Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Today I welcome Eric Schmechel from Dubuque Soil and Water Conservation District where he serves as the Director of the Watershed Program. Throughout this interview with Eric, I not only got all the “dirt” on runoff, soil health, and Catfish Creek, but we dig deeper into together, how we can coordinate and collaborate as our rural communities continue to develop. Eric’s mission is to continue to bring diverse groups of urban and rural community members together. He does this by building relationships and focusing on profitability and return on investment within soil health, conservation, carbon, climate change, and so much more! One of Eric’s most publicized projects has been the reconstruction of Catfish Creek. Catfish Creek is a naturally producing stream which has been surrounded by urban development. Eric brought citizens together and held many public forums to develop a watershed management plan for the Creek. Today, the plan is being put into action, with soil quality restoration, streambank restoration, and other conservation practices. Friends, get ready to learn, think GREEN, and expand your knowledge! Key Takeaways * The most important aspect when bringing people together is forming and building relationships. For Eric, this is with farmers, producers, growers, elected officials, and community members. * A balancing act has to take place when forming these relationships, but ultimately for the betterment of the program, it has to be done. * We need to get away from the isolation silos and collectively work together to try and solve some of our challenges as it relates to habitat, ecosystem improvement, etc. * “Roots in the Ground Year Around.” Dubuque Soil and Water Conservation will be focusing on this slogan throughout the summer to focus on the importance of planting cover crops * Farmers are willing to share their experience and have field days, the best way is to get together and chat about what's working and what’s not.
Follow along with Dubuque Soil and Water Conservation! If you want to connect with Eric and the Dubuque Soil and Water Conservation District, visit: www.facebook.com/CatfishCreekWMA Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
I’ve been a mom for 10 years now and let me tell you a little secret…I still don’t have it all figured out! But I know that sharing our stories is one of the most important things we can do in this day-and-age on social media. It helps others see themselves in our anecdotes, and it gives them permission and power to find answers for their challenges. So in today’s episode, I’m answering the following questions: 1. How do you do it all? I am a wife to a farmer, mom to four kids under the age of ten, a community volunteer, and a small business owner working out of my home office. It’s exhausting. Between the piles of laundry, shoe prints on my hardwood floors, and client task reminders popping up each day, there is no way I can manage it all on my own. So I give you some insight into where and how I outsource some of my responsibilities. 2. How do you handle the mom guilt? Motherhood is seasonal. When I was a stay-at-home mom in 2015, I had so. much. guilt. about not contributing to our family’s income. But I was able to spend every day with my kids. Fast forward to 2021, and I feel like I’ve done a 180. I’m now contributing financially, but I find myself working well after I’ve picked the kids up from school. In my mind, I’m always going to have mom guilt but I know how to lessen the pressure it can put on my shoulders which leads me into number 3. 3. What do you do to make the days more efficient? On a perfect day, I would start with making some time for myself. I know that I’m at my best when I have a little quiet time before the kids get up. I read (I love a good fiction page-turner), move my body, and just soak in the silence. I also know that I feel my best when I’m eating high-carb, low-fat diet, which isn’t how it works for everybody. But by paying attention to how I feel physically and mentally at different seasons in my life, I’ve learned a lot about myself. And I know that when I care for myself best, I show up most creative and clear for work and most loving for my family. 4. This wasn’t a question but I’m sharing it anyway What is one piece of advice you’d give every mom? To see a mental health counselor or therapist at some point. After a major health issue with one of our children in 2018, I thought I was recovering from the trauma pretty well. But a few months in, I realized I was hiding a lot of my feelings and I was a wound-up ball of emotion just ready to burst. It was upon talking to a trusted friend about her mental health counselor that I took the change and made an appointment with a therapist. It felt so good to speak about my feelings without fear of judgment. I could open up and get objective opinions from a professional, and talking through my thoughts just felt so much lighter. If you aren’t feeling yourself, know that it’s ok to seek out professional help. No judgement, no shame. I really went all over the place in today’s episode in no particular order. I’m not perfect. I’m no parenting expert. I’m not a seasoned business owner. But this is my real-life take at where I’m at in life as of May 2021. I hope it was helpful and you could find a few pointers inside. Podcast Summary: Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
This week at Small-Minded, a listener request: “How do you balance caring for kids and running a business from home?
”To be honest, I’m not sure I have all the answers... or any, for that matter. But I have learned a thing or two in my almost-decade of parenthood.
So in today’s episode, we’ll tackle some of my best tips for handling all the things...as best as possible anyway.
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Get real with yourself. What are all the things you’re trying to manage? Most people I know in small towns are balancing work, family, hobbies, volunteer commitments, and trying to find a way to keep all these balls in the air. Is doing all these things even possible? Where can you let things slip a little, and where do you need to be fully present?Allot your time where it needs to be.There will be good days and bad. There will be busy seasons and slow season, and neither will last forever. Last tip: use a planner book to keep it all straight.
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Set expectations. Share your responsibilities with your coworkers, clients, spouse/partner, kids, and yourself. I try to be as transparent as possible about being a mom AND a business owner, with everyone and be open about what’s happening so I and my dependents can plan as-needed. I am my own worst enemy in this area, often putting too many expectations on myself, and it’s something I’m constantly working through.
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Embrace help.Whether you need help via daycare, a housekeeper, a lawn mower, or an independent contractor/part-time employee, get help if you need it. If help doesn’t fit into your budget right now, see how you can partner up with other parents and switch off childcare or bring in low-cost interns in your business to give you the support you need.
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Embrace distraction.Don’t feel bad if you need to distract the kids to give yourself some time to work or take time to yourself. At our house, we are cool with screen time (within reason) and we use a locked closet to rotate toys in and out, so the kids can be busy in those times when I have to work while they are home. I still don’t get uninterrupted work time, and you’ll frequently see my kids busting in on my virtual trainings, but I do my best.
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Don’t compartmentalize your life. Be gentle with yourself and realize that you are multi-faceted. You are trying to do so much, especially in 2020, and it’s hard to find balance in all those responsibilities. Let your responsibilities overlap where they must, and it’s ok if you need to let some things go.
As I said at the outset, we really went all over the place in today’s episode in no particular order. I’m not perfect. I’m no parenting expert. I’m not a seasoned business owner. But this is my real-life take at working from home with children present.
I hope it was helpful and you could find a few pointers inside
That’s it. I’ve done it. I’m throwing in the towel. How can I outdo this episode, you guys? In today’s episode, I’m chatting with our first international guest, Magdalena Schurmann, from a small town in western Germany! She was so gracious and knowledgeable and sweet in our interview, and I’m still pinching myself that we had the opportunity to chat. Plus, I know you will all have at least one good takeaway. In her business ArbeitsLeben (translated to work/life), Lena helps bring happiness into the work lives of business owners and entrepreneurs. With her tactical tips, she works one on one with her clients to improve their communication skills, clarify their goals, reduce stress, and enjoy what they do every day. Throughout the episode, Lena shares some of her best tips with us for managing work and life in 2021. She goes into managing expectations and the pressures we put on ourselves, the importance of setting boundaries, and how to be true to what you need. But we don’t just talk business shop, listener! Because I couldn’t help myself, we talk about the pressures of being a woman managing the workplace and household, her upbringing and time spent in Minnesota, and her small town in Germany. Their claim to fame is a 1500-year-old oak tree (I could not believe this) and a distillery. Listen to the full episode for all of Lena’s insights!
You guys. There are multiple reasons I love today’s episode. One: because Nicole brings such a light and energy to the interview. Two: because I could listen to her Carolinian accent all day long. Three: because today we go deep, my friend. In today's episode, you’ll get to listen in to my friend Nicole Saunders. I know her story and perspectives on life are going to leave you with lots of great takeaways! Grow with Nicole! Want more of Nicole? Her words of wisdom and business growth tips can be found on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Clubhouse @nicolesaunders. She would LOVE to get a DM on Instagram with your episode takeaways. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Wow. Today’s interview with my friend Megan Ruffles is FIRE, my friends. When we were prepping for our podcast interview, I originally wanted to speak with Megan about three things: 1. what does it mean to be “chic-ish”? 2. her experience with influencer marketing and connecting her skills of home decorating and cooking with big brands 3. her ability to connect people around important ideas and causes in the community
But then I discovered that during the pandemic she created a TikTok account that now has over 54,000 followers! With some simple strategies and a “grow as you go” mindset, Megan has created TikToks and Reels with over 1 million views. So, of course, we’re going to chat about how she did that and the joy that TikTok has brought to her life in the pandemic. Our conversation stays lighthearted because Megan is an absolute JOY and so funny, but we turn serious near the end of the interview as we discuss the August 2020 Derecho that impacted her small town of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. This inland hurricane brought 100 mph+ sustained winds to the state of Iowa creating mass destruction that still lingers in Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area today. In the immediate aftermath, there was very little coverage about this natural disaster beyond local news stations, so Megan took it upon herself to use her platform to educate followers and spread word about needs in the community. Megan reached out to online friends who could help, and together they started a grassroots effort to positively impact her friends and neighbors as they recovered from the storm. I had so much fun chatting with Megan today, and I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it! Key Takeaways * Her last name is Ruffles - pronounced like the chips or dress design * “chic-ish” is a lifestyle that take Midwest values and practicality and combining it with chic living. * It always boils down to confidence. “When you’re in an outfit you love, when your home is stylish and comfortable, when you can make a delicious meal or host a party, it makes you feel good.” * Pay attention to your audience, and make sure what you share is in line with their values and needs. * The pandemic disrupted a lot of lives, but in the case of Megan and her husband, it gave them an opportunity to try a hand at new, creative outlets including “Chic-ish Charcuterie,” her book and mini cheese board line. * “TikTok is the essence of chic-ish.” You can see someone put together the most beautiful, artistic cake, and the next video is someone chugging a Busch Light. * Keep education at the forefront and give followers a takeaway from every video. But the fun, silly videos are important every so often too! * Don’t assume that people know things. Break down your day or your business into very small parts and turn each into a TikTok video * Megan recommends: starting where you are at. Start simple and basic with your videos and then grow into more advanced skills as you get better at navigating the app. * “There’s only one way to learn, and that’s just trying it.” * The August 2020 Derecho was devastating for her community. But Megan felt a responsibility by having social platforms with large outreach, and she leverage her following to spread the word of the needs in her town. * And more! Listen to the whole episode for even more takeaways from Megan!
Join the “chic-ish” trend! If you want to learn all things chic-ish from Megan, visit her chic-ish site or her chic-ish market. Find all the fun things she’s doing on social by visiting her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
I know I’m usually here to offer up some hot takes or quick tips to master social media for your small business, but today is a little different. Recently I received a DM on Instagram from a podcast listener: “Would you ever do an episode on taking time away from social media? How to take time for yourself and tips and tricks when you are feeling the time sucks of social media?” While I’m not quite prepared to tackle that yet (hello, boundary problems, my name is Molly), I do think it’s important to clarify that your business doesn’t begin and end on social. Yes, social media can help you: * get more visibility * sell online * connect with a wider audience * reach people outside your immediate location * creatively spread your message
But social media cannot: * replace you * replace your family * replace your reputation * make you into something you are not (especially in a small town where everybody knows you)
Social media isn’t a magic wand. It’s a magnifying glass. So magnify what you’re doing well and how you are making a difference in real life. Growing your Business Goes Beyond the Internet Here are a few ways I’ve grown Molly Knuth Media, a social media marketing agency, with traditional marketing methods: 1. Saying yes to speaking events. I have spoken at our local high school on career day, as an opening speaker at social media summits, a breakout session leader at women’s empowerment conferences, networked at small business social gatherings, and lead workshops for other organizations. Some of these were paid gigs, but most were not. I did them because I wanted to spread my message to as many people as possible. And I knew that the people in these rooms needed what I had to share. Look for events in your area or industry where you have the opportunity to teach what you do. Be sure to give your audience action steps so they can see your expertise firsthand, and give them your contact info to follow up for more. 2. Buying high-end business cards. When I started MKM, I knew I needed business cards. That was the staple of saying “I am open for business.” And I am not exaggerating when I say that I get complimented every time I hand out my business cards today. I sprung for a square shape and a smooth finish on a high-end paper. It cost a little more, but the impression they leave is priceless. 3. Donating to local events and causes. I want to give back to the community that has given so much to me and my family, and I do that with my time and/or my money. I continue to volunteer in community groups that align with my goals and beliefs, and I often use my social media knowledge to aide their efforts. Similarly, I try to donate to school functions and youth groups that are sustained by the generosity of our citizens. The first time I saw my logo on a sponsorship banner, I nearly cried. It was an “I made it” moment because I finally had enough cash flow to donate it to causes bigger than myself. And people take notice of that. 4. Apparel. I mean, do you live in a small town if you don’t have a tee shirt, sweatshirt, or hat, with a local business emblazoned on it? Or these days, and insulated tumbler? About two years into MKM, I had established enough of a fanbase to place an order for tees and hats, and I handed them out for free to loyal customers, family, and friends. This was great for generating conversation and getting my logo out and more visible in the community. 5. Just being nice. I feel like I’ve learned more about being a kind person since being an entrepreneur. I don’t mean this in the way that “the customer is always right” or in a kiss-ass way. I just mean that I’ve learned to be more empathetic, more clear with my communications, more resolved in what’s right and what’s wrong, less gossipy, less quick to judge, and less apt to wear my emotions on my sleeve. I’ve learned how to strike up conversations with others I don’t know. I’ve learned how to be more inclusive. I’ve learned more about my own personality quirks, habits, and shortcomings, while paying more attention to the unique qualities in others and how that makes our world more whole. In all, I’ve just become more human by following this simple ideal from Dale Carnegie, “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.”
As much of an advocate as I am for technology and the blessings it affords us in 2021, tech and social media aren’t the end-all, be-all for our lives and our businesses. Businesses don’t only grow online. A well-rounded business and marketing plan doubles-down on real-life strategies and relationships. When you’re building a business, it has to begin and end with the people you help. The end. Whether you have a brick-and-mortar warehouse or a Shopify storefront, you have got to emphasize how you help people make their lives better. You can share this message on Instagram Stories or on the street corner. You can find your next client in the grocery store line or via Facebook Ads. I love social media, but what I love more is the people behind the screens. So if you’re feeling a need to break away from the social scene for a little bit, that’s just fine! Your business will continue if you remember the people you are here to help.
Our incredible line-up of guest interviews continues today with my friend Amy O’Connell of Sprinkled Confections and O’Connell Organic Acres in rural Eastern Iowa. I’m not lying when I say that Amy is one of the most talented people I know. Whether making rice krispie treats look gorgeous or making a five-tier wedding cake that looks too good to eat, Amy brings her artistry into your home to celebrate your life’s biggest milestones. When I think of the purpose of this podcast and highlighting small town people who are doing big things in multiple areas of life, Amy is it. She’s grown Sprinkled out of her home’s kitchen over the past 8 years, grown an organic meat business with her husband and his family, hosted workshops to teach others the art of cake decorating, and raised three boys to boot. In today’s interview we have a candid discussion about postpartum depression and finding purpose as a stay-at-home mom and then get into discussing all things cakes. From wedding cake trends to how COVID brought challenges and opportunities for her businesses, Amy and I cover it all in today’s episode. Grab a notebook, and enjoy this one, my friends! Key Takeaways * Pay attention to your personal needs. If you feel like you need to make a change or seek help, it’s ok and necessary. We all have different needs in seasons of our life, * Save the good things: voicemails, thank you cards, positive reviews, and refer to them on the hard days to orient yourself in the good you’ve done. * Amy is a superwoman. She puts her wedding cakes together the day-of to ensure highest-quality products for you and your guests. * She wasn’t a professionally-trained baker, but she has taken artistry classes and leaned into continued education in a variety of mediums to help her hone her craft. She also trusts her own creativity to take risks and try new things for things like styled photography shoots * She was inspired to begin hosting workshops by a friend writing a thesis on bringing small towns together. From that first experience, Amy has brought in her experience as a horse-riding instructor and teacher training to show people how to up-level their baking designs. * Cakes are part of family traditions, and so much of our small-town connections are made around the table. Amy says seeing people celebrating these milestones gives her purposes and inspires her to bring new offers. * Listen to your clientele. When the pandemic hit, and her organic farm could no longer connect with customers at market, Amy and her family started door-to-door deliveries. When they started, they only offered organic beef, but as clients asked for pork and chicken, the O’Connells found ways to bring those options to the table (literally). * And more! Listen to the whole episode for even more conversational gems!
Sprinkle a little joy in your own life! If you want to get on Amy’s schedule or see all that she offers, visit her website or follow her on Instagram. Or head over to her family’s farm accounts on Instagram and Facebook, or visit their website. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Ready to get a little punchy? My friend and guest this week keeps it punchy a fun on all her socials and in life. Meet my guest Sophia Sulzner, aka: The Western Shop Specialist. In the past year, she pivoted her small-town social media marketing/website design business, and rather than sharing her services oriented for everyone, she niched down. Now, she and her team specialize in increasing brand recognition & revenue for western boutiques and creative businesses. They offer social media strategy trainings, Shopify web sales services, and coaching for small businesses in this arena. By niching down, Sophia was able to find her people. She could speak with these women at their level, using their slang, talking about their interests, and connecting them with one another. As a result, she’s been able to grow her Facebook Group The Punchy Posse to over 1400 members since December 2020 and help women from all over the globe connect and collaborate around their love for western and rural businesses. As the group grew, Sophia grew her offerings and adjusted for the needs of her followers. Her story is a great example in the pivoting that is required of entrepreneurs and business owners. In addition to her professional life, Sophia is a young mom of three whose husband is currently deployed with the National Guard. We thank her husband and her family for their service and protecting the freedoms that we enjoy here in the U.S. In their free time, they enjoy rodeoing and living the small-town life in rural Iowa. This episode is full of little nuggets of wisdom that I know you’ll find helpful, and I was scribbling notes during the whole interview. Enjoy this candid convo with my friend Sophia! Key Takeaways * “If I’m enjoying it, it always turns out 110% better.” Don’t forget to find the joy in what you do! * Lean into things you love about yourself and your upbringing. As a young girl, Sophia always felt like she was a little too country for her town friends, and a little to city for her rodeo crew. But she kept finding herself called back to that lifestyle and brought together a community for herself and people like her. * Facebook Groups can grow quickly, and the way to keep the vibe aligned the way you want as the admin/visionary, you need to set and keep clear boundaries. It’s tough, but it is important in growing community. * Facebook groups can grow quickly, as I said in the prior point, and though this can seem like what you’ve always dreamed of, it also brings a new set of challenges and people management strategies for a business owner. * Facebook groups can grow quickly (is there an echo in here?) but that doesn’t always equate to more dollars for your business. Growing a business may require you to work for free or minimal dollars that don’t provide immediate ROI. * It’s ok to grow and pivot as you go. Try things, ask for feedback from your audience, and adjust as-needed. * Investing in coaches and working with professionals can help you grow and scale your business.
Feelin’ Punchy? If you want to learn a little more about Sophia’s Punchy Posse business community here or shop their goods here. Or if you want to see the services Sophia offers and get in touch with her, you can visit her website. And if you want to connect at the Punchy Retreat, get in touch with Sophia to reserve your spot for the 2022 gathering of Punchy Professionals! Follow for More Follow Sophia on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Today I’m here to tell you that I’ve only been teaching half of what you can do to make your business and brand stand out on social media. And for that, I am sorry. But we’re righting the ship today on a short episode of the Small-Minded Podcast. While I feel like I’ve helped you learn the in-depth how-to’s of creating content for social over the years, I recently realized that the steps I take behind-the-scenes is oftentimes just as important in getting desired results online. The liking, commenting, and sharing; the time spent finding out the “next cool thing”; and the messages I send daily in PMs, DMS, and emails all add up, but it’s often not what you see as an online follower or podcast listener. These actions we take to interact with our audience is called engagement. This includes likes, comments, shares, messages, clicks, and more. We typically talk about engagement in analyzing what our audience is doing for us in terms of story views, shares, reach, etc. that we received on recent posts. But our engagement as the account holder needs to be proactive and consistent too. We need to be reaching out intentionally to our followers to like their posts or strategically engaging on the accounts of those we hope to cross paths with. Why? Because people are showing up on social media to connect with other people. On either side of these screens are real people looking for emotional support, entertainment, or educational tips for helping them in their lives. It can be easy to get caught up in the colors, fonts, and animations on our displays, but to use social media for it’s original purpose, to see the good that these platforms can do, and to create real, authentic communities here online, we need to remember that we are here to help people. If you want to be successful on social, you can start by engaging with and listening to your followers…then incorporate some of the more flashy things later on ;) Engaging with your audience in 15 minutes per week Once per week, I want you to take 15 minutes to scroll through social with the intention not to produce content, but to show up as a real, live person to your followers. Here’s the process I use: 1. Set a timer for 15 minutes 2. For the first 5ish minutes, scroll through your feed and take the following tactical actions:
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a. like any posts that make you smile or think about them
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b. thoughtfully comment on posts that make you belly laugh or make you say “wow! that is really helpful”
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c. share any posts you’d like to get more reach or that you think would benefit your own followers/friends
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d. tag and friends or brands in the comments of posts that are relevant
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e. DM/PM someone who has inspired you or continually shows up to help
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f. follow any new accounts that impress you
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g. in short, behave like a real person from your business account and be social
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For the second 5ish minutes, do intentional outreach to cross paths with others in your local area, industry or ideal audience. Seek out new businesses in your town and set their notifications to “see first” or head over to a mentor/influencer you’d like to catch the eye of and engagement-bomb them. An engagement bomb is going to their Page or Profile and liking and commenting on several of their posts all at the same time. So the next time they log in, all they will see is a bunch of notifications with your name on it. It will catch their attention, and it will create a lasting impression. Use this strategically and not back-to-back on the same account. Think of it like welcoming someone new to your town. You want to take repeated small steps to introduce them to you and ultimately create a friendship with them. Maybe the first day you wave from the sidewalk, the next day you leave cookies on the front porch, the next weekend you invite them for coffee, with the ultimate goal of connecting with that new person. Same goes for social. Intentional, repeated outreach and engagement will result in online friendships and relationships and help you expand your social network.
- For the last 5 minutes, I want you to go back to your Newsfeed and practice social listening. Social listening is a fancy word for paying attention to what’s important to your audience. Is there a new meme making the rounds that you can use on your own profile? Is there new industry news that would be important to share with your followers? Is there a super creative Reel that you can save and draw inspiration from the next time you’re in a creative dry spell? This time is meant for you to simply take it in and get creative ideas for content you can make to help your audience. How is this engaging? Because creating content that is relevant to your followers shows them that you care. And isn’t that what all humans want most?
Ok, enough of the tactics. I did say I would keep this short. So now I want you to set that timer and start your 15 minute engagement session for this week. Refer to the steps above to guide you. And if you’re looking for some accountability to help you incorporate some of these strategies into your daily social media, head over to this page and enter your email address to get a printable list of daily action steps you can take to grow your social media account!
If you love your small town and you know that it is poised to thrive (which I’m sure is most of you if you’re here at this podcast/blog), this episode is for you. In today’s episode of Small-Minded, I sit down with my friend Jason Neises. It’s readily apparent that Jason LOVES what he does in helping small towns grow and capitalize on the assets in their communities. Through his work as a community development coordinator at the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque in Dubuque, Iowa, Jason “helps empower residents of rural areas in the seven-county Dubuque region to identify their towns’ best, most unique attributes and use them as the basis of future decision-making” (more about his work here). He gets into communities to talk to real people, assessing their needs, sharing their stories, and helping organizations make future plans that will truly benefit citizens in these areas. He looks at the pieces of small towns that impact the quality of life and functionality for citizens to make these town function, attract, and retain the people who live there. Beyond his work at CFGD, Jason also is a coach of the Community Heart & Soul framework to help people in small towns get clear about their goals and take action on them, and he also volunteers with the Dubuque County Historic Preservation Commission to preserve historical structures in the Eastern Iowa area. On a personal level, I’ve been able to work with Jason side-by-side as my own hometown of Cascade went through the Community Heart & Soul process. With Jason’s coaching, we were able to reach out to all the voices in our town, not just the people at the table in committees and City Council meetings, to hear what was important to them and their families. We heard common themes that we expected (we need more parking, we need more restaurants, Main Street is crumbling) but we also hear things that surprised us and forced us to question our identity (are we really as welcoming as we say we are?). And a big part that I loved about this process was that we focused on the assets in our town and celebrated what we loved about living small in order to highlight those positives and help them expand and grow. In today’s episode you’ll hear more about this Community Heart & Soul framework, how it benefits communities, and how you can implement some of this into your own small town. Enjoy this one, my friends! Key Takeaways * “I think the best part of what I do is every day, I get to work with people who love their small towns, and want to make them even better.” * Small towns leave little margin for error because we’re working with limited resources when compared to bigger communities: fewer dollars, fewer volunteers, fewer options for essentials. So we need to work together and communicate needs and ideas in small towns so resources aren’t wasted. * Doing your research and going in with eyes and ears wide open helps small town projects achieve success. * Remote working could be one piece of the puzzle in achieving widespread rural revitalization. Many small towns already have quality of life perks like safety, amenities, and connection. By bringing in the high-speed internet access piece, towns can help residents connect to anywhere in the world for their work. * Some communities are so small that they can’t access resources like money, people, and time, to access programs and dollars that are meant to help small towns and small businesses. That’s where local Community Foundations can help by connecting these people with the tools they need to improve their communities. These foundations can help residents feel empowered and take action via grants, government initiatives, and assistance in processes. * Community development principles: involve everyone, work around assets already in place, and play the long game * Everyone can be a community leader and take and active role in community development whether they are on City Council, a teacher at the local school, work the register at the convenience store, or work from home raising their families. * Community Heart & Soul plays a huge role in developing emerging leaders in small towns.
Find the Heart & Soul in your Community! If you want to learn a little more about the Community Heart & Soul process, visit their website. And if you’d like to get in touch with Jason to discuss how this could happen in your own small town, he can be reached at jason@dbqfoundation.org. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Guys, the podcast is half of a year old. We’ve recorded over 25 episodes…like, how did this happen so quickly? With that in mind and a recent email I received, I thought it was a good time to revisit our purpose here at the Small-Minded Podcast and Molly Knuth Media, and what we believe about life in small towns. Our Manifesto You hear this message at the beginning of every episode: At Small-Minded, we are flipping the script on what it means to be small-minded because we believe that being small is a good thing. Small steps lead to big impact. Small towns have a big heart. And small businesses play a big role in our modern way of life. Here at small-minded, we share stories and strategies to help small towns and small businesses flourish. Here’s to a life well-lived being small-minded. It’s easy to say, but it’s harder to live and embody. But that’s why we repeat it. That’s why we focus on it. That’s why we have guests who can speak to this same mentality. Being small-minded (in our sense of the phrase) is a good thing, because it reminds us why we choose to do life in these small communities. For many of us it’s where the farm is. Where we grew up, or where we want to raise our kids. For others it’s a way to have a direct impact on the community or to have lots of volunteer and outreach opportunities. For others it’s safety and a slower pace of life. While we know that (and though I don’t believe media is the enemy), I do believe that small and rural are often portrayed in modern culture as “backwards” or primitive. Our towns are shown as places people land or get stuck. Full of stories of missed opportunities, rather than stories of folks who thoughtfully chose this place and this way of life. But for all these portrayals, small towns are these stereotypes. People DO thoughtfully choose these rural, less-populated areas, and the data shows that. In a recent study conducted by the moving company United Van Lines, states with the highest number of inbound residents are those that were largely rural: Idaho, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Arkansas, among others. On the contrary, states with the highest number of outbound residents include New Jersey, New York, Illinois, Connecticut, and California, signaling a movement toward a more rural, less populated way of life for thousands of Americans. So what does all this mean for you, reader, and for those of us here at the Small-Minded Podcast. We need to live in a small-minded way that puts our small towns first. Thinking big for how to improve rural areas and provide that neighborly piece of Americana we crave. We want to admit our shortcomings and find ways to be welcoming and inclusive and modern, while also honoring the reasons that people love to live small. That’s what we do here. Bonus: Recent Listener Email In a recent email, a listener asked me my thoughts on starting something new in her small town. After over a decade of working in her current business, she feels called to change direction and try something different. The possibility excites her, but in a small town she also has the very real fear of people talking about her decision and questions whether she’ll have support. So in today’s episode of the podcast, I talk through making big choices and changes in a small town with the hope that my experiences can give you some guidance and encouragement. Takeaways In short: do the damn thing. If it’s on your heart and you can’t quit thinking about it, there’s a reason. You can dive right in, or you can make slow, steady progress. But even slow progress IS PROGRESS, right? You’ve got this, and if you’ve got big dreams while thinking small, you will be a blessing to your community for sure. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Friend, trust me when I say you’ll want a notebook as you listen to this one. Today I’m sitting down with my friend, Erika Hermsen of Sweat Inspire Sisterhood, and I know you’re going to have so many takeaways from this episode. Not only has Erika changed my life (no joke) with her at-home fitness and nutrition programs that are perfect for small-town women with limited access to gyms, but she has grown a business and community like no other I’ve ever been part of. Erika’s mission is to help women in small towns live their best life. With her programs she helps busy women sweat daily with at-home workouts and nutrition programs. No gym equipment is necessary, just dumbbells, a yoga mat, and you’re in! In addition to the live workouts and library of hundreds of prerecorded trainings on the app, you get access to the Sisterhood Facebook group, a chance to win prizes from women-owned Midwest businesses, and weekly meal plans and healthy recipes delivered straight to your inbox. The fitness results are great, but the confidence and connections that result are a game changer. I love that in the years she’s been in business, Erika has moved across the country from large cities to suburbs and small towns, but in those transitions, she’s never lost sight of her mission to reach women where they are via their online platform. And as she’s grown, she’s brought other women on her team and supported women-owned small businesses by sharing them on her platform and incorporating their products into Sisterhood giveaways. Erika’s is a business that leads with heart, and throughout the episode I hope you can see and hear the respect I have for her as a business owner and friend. Enjoy this one, my friends! Key Takeaways * The best businesses start by listening to the needs of the people you help. S.I.S. started when Erika moved cross-country and her former fitness clients asked for a way to stay connected and receive coaching online. As her business has evolved and grown, she hasn’t forgotten this core tenant, and she continually adjusts to the needs and requests of the Sisters. * The best business growth happens organically. Women tell their friends who tell their sisters who tell their coworkers and can grow via word of mouth. * Play the long game with your business and adopt new methods and technologies as they develop. Start that app, incorporate video trainings, etc. and use it to help enhance your visibility and customer experience. * Be innovative. Just like a traditional gym, Erika has other registered coaches and instructors on her team who can lead classes in specialized areas. * “The only way to truly grow is to bring in help.” Business owners can’t wear all the hats forever. When the time is right, find those areas that drain your energy or don’t fall into your skillset and hire help to supplement those aspects of your business. * When hiring, the #1 thing to look for is trust. Trust the person you are bringing on board, and they will help you reach your business goals. * Community is what it’s all about in social media and real life. * Supporting small businesses directly impacts the lives of people in your small town and the economy.
Join the Sisterhood! If you want to have the guidance of a coach, the accountability of a group of supportive women, and the convenience of doing all this from home, check out Sweat Inspire Sisterhood! At the beginning of each month the Sisterhood has a 7-day free challenge so you can have a test run or you can dive in and join the program! Visit https://www.sweatinspiresisterhood.com/ to view her offers or follow @sweatinspiresisterhood on Facebook and Instagram. Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
Hey, there business owner! Do you feel overwhelmed about all the options available to you on Instagram when marketing your business? We used to have just posts, where we shared cute photos and quippy captions and called it a day. But over the years, Instagram has found ways to enhance the platform with messaging, shopping, Stories, IGTV, Reels, and Guides, and now our possibilities for marketing our business are endless….and it leaves us feeling overwhelmed sometimes with all the options. Today at Small-Minded, I’m walking you through the 3 video formats I suggest using on the ‘gram, what makes them different, ways you can incorporate them into your marketing plan, and how to know which is best for you. Three Video Formats for Instagram 1. IGTV: IGTVs are longer-format videos that can be any length from one minute up to 15. These videos lend themselves well to creating video series where you show up on consistent dates and times to share information or education that demonstrates your expertise in your business. Consider adding one IGTV each week to your content plan, and from that video you can extract a quote, create a graphic to simplify the process, or take a photo of the tools you used, to fill up the remaining days of your calendar. 2. Instagram Stories: Stories are the behind-the-scenes sneak peek of your business that everyone loves to see. These 15-second to 1-minute videos allow you to be transparent and authentic with your audience because they’re only viewable for 24 hours (think like a Snapchat) When you approach stories with this mindset, it is where you really build relationships and brand loyalty with followers. Don’t be afraid to show your face or talk directly to the camera. Utilize the fun Stories’ features like filters and stickers and encourage feedback and engagement from your followers by asking questions or playing “get to know me” games. Stories should be used daily from once per day up to 10 stories per day. 3. Instagram Reels: The new kid on the block, Reels are the TikTok-y, short, entertaining video format that is highly favored right now in the algorithm. Reels can only be a maximum of 30 seconds in length, so these are well-suited for few tips, introducing concepts/topics, or just being fun! Social listening is your friend when creating Reels, so be sure to watch what others are doing to see what songs, challenges, and trends are current that you can use for your own business. Be warned: there is a learning curve to creating Reels, so if you need some pointers, be sure to join the MKM Get Reel free training group on Facebook.
How to Know when to Use Each 1. Video Purpose: Start by thinking about your purpose for creating a video. If it’s to demonstrate a product or share a process, that may be better suited for an IGTV because it gives you ample time. If the purpose is just to share a funny story that happened to you today, share that in Stories because it’s authentic and shows the real you. Looking for growth and enhanced visibility? REELS, baby. 2. Lasting Time: Next, consider how long you want followers to be able to access this video. If it’s just current today, it’s definitely something to put on Stories. If you want this video to be a reference you can use for weeks and months to come, turn your idea into an IGTV where it will live on your grid and you can use the URL to direct followers to. 3. Prep Time Available to You: Lastly, consider how much time YOU have to create this video. If you are pressed for time, create a story or go live with an IGTV. Reels definitely take time to film and edit, especially if it’s your first few attempts at this format. So they are a contender for days when you have more time available for content creation.
Takeaways Video is a must in your 2021 content plan on Instagram. But the way in which you show up on video is up to you. Take some risks, go outside your comfort zone with the above formats, and most importantly have fun with creating videos for Instagram! Follow for More Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook For more about our Instagram workshops this month at MKM visit mollyknuthmedia.com/shop.
This episode is a fun one, friends!
When I tell you this girl makes me smile with just her presence, I hope you can hear that smile come through your speakers in today’s episode.
Allison Corbin and I crossed paths a couple years ago, and in the years since, we have partnered on several projects professionally, she’s taken photos of my family, and we can have an hours-long conversation over coffee with the best of them. I truly enjoy her company, and today I’m bringing her expertise of photography to you.
Allison started her career as a photographer almost 7 years ago by capturing weddings and family sessions. And as her family has grown and needs changed, Allison has pivoted into more commercial and brand photography.
She loves working with these businesses and helping tell their stories through the lens of her camera. She captures moments in time of the people and the hard work involved in operating a small town business, and her photos document those daily interactions.
Not only can a photographer capture a moment in time for these small businesses, but it also allows them a professional library of content they can pull from for social media, websites, pamphlets, and other print marketing materials. And in 2021, more than ever, it’s important to have these assets so followers can shop you online.
Listen to today’s episode for the full interview, and see some of my key takeaways from my conversation with Allison below:
Key Takeaways:
-Behind every small business is a family. Capturing photos of these businesses is capturing families too.
Owning your own business allows flexibility as family needs change.
Photos tell the stories of the people behind those items, services, and events that Allison captures. And many times multiple businesses come together to work with one another, so it’s fun to see the crossover that happens in small towns.
Her journey to owning her own business was over several years. Allison worked in several career fields as she started her photography business. She deliberately made it a slower transition so she could make sure she and her family were comfortable as her business grew.
Starting a business doesn’t mean throwing caution to the wind and investing all your money up front. Everyone’s business journey looks different, and just because the gurus say to “take the leap” it doesn’t mean that’s the path for you. Getting professional photos doesn’t have to look like a standard shoulders-up photo against a generic backdrop. Help tell your story by wearing your uniform and getting photos in your environment.
People do business with people. Let your customers and followers online see YOU, and the face behind the business (and these days, the face underneath the mask!)
“We need to step up our game this year and be able to show other people who we really are.” –Allison’s take on why photography is essential for businesses in 2021
Get more from Allison
If you want more tips for taking your own professional photos or if you’d like to work with her yourself(check out her head shot event if you’re a local!), visit www.capturedbycorbin.com or @capturedbycorbin on Facebook and Instagram.
Connect with us:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
This week at the Small-Minded Podcast by Molly Knuth Media we welcome Jordan Trumm, a small-town gal who is a social media marketer, community volunteer, farm wife, and soon-to-be mama.
When Jordan and I met in 2018, we were fast friends.Her active role in our community and entrepreneurial path as a social media marketer meant our paths crossed a lot. Add in her sweet, hardworking nature and love of coffee, and she and I were a match made in heaven!
With a passion for seeing businesses and communities flourish, Jordan helps her clients in a variety of industries with everything from email marketing to Instagram planning and posting to helping them connect with customers online. We discuss her top tips for marketing for brand-new businesses on social, and how that shifts for businesses who’ve been on social for awhile. She gives us all the goods for helping people choose YOU to do business with.
In addition, we discuss how Jordan moved across nearly the whole state of Iowa once she got married, and how she handled moving to a new, smaller town and acclimating to the community she found there. She shares here tips for getting involved in the local life as well as establishing boundaries when the volunteer opportunities seem endless.
This week’s interview with Jordan is truly a gem. Be sure to listen to the full audio, and see below for some of my key takeaways from our conversation:
Key Takeaways:
-The more small businesses grow, the more your community, schools, and citizens can grow as a result.
-When the City, Chamber of Commerce, and Economic Development committees work in the same direction, great things can happen for small towns.
-Joining a new community as as an adult can be challenging. Diving into volunteerism can help you find like-minded people and create long-lasting business relationships and friendships.
-Respect your own boundaries when it comes to serving on committees. Be selective in the groups you join and the time you commit.
-Be a friend and welcome new residents to your community. Be inclusive and inviting, not just friendly.
-Growing a business by word of mouth is the best kind of marketing (and organic social media and user-generated content is word of mouth too!)
-Consistency is key on social media!
-People connect with stories and people connect with people. They buy YOU when they choose to work with your business in a small town.
Get more from Jordan
If you’re ready to up level your social media marketing, be sure to follow Jordan! You can find her on Facebook and Instagram at @sociallyjordan or at sociallyjordanmedia.com. Connect with us: Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Did you know that 55% of the U.S. population has listened to a podcast - 37% of whom are monthly listeners and 24% of whom are weekly listeners? 56% of monthly listeners are men and 44% are women. Most listening is done from home, on the commute, or while performing tasks. More info here. Podcasting is an up-and-coming marketing medium where you can share stories, provide education, and help your listeners on topics of your choice. But if you’re here, you already know how awesome podcasts are, right? So now you’re thinking “how can I get started in podcasting?” Let’s dive in and discuss in this week’s episode. Why Podcast? Podcasting is a great way for you to connect with your ideal customer so they can listen at their convenience and be a captive audience. This may be at their desk, on a walk, as they complete household chores, or in the car. You can choose the content, frequency and consistency of your episodes without being subject to algorithms like on social media. I also think that hearing someone’s voice has an intangible affect on listeners. It creates an intimate connection and a community more quickly than reading words on a screen. This medium allows hosts and guests to be vulnerable, include pacing and vocal inflections to allow for personality, and allow greater insights into the human experience. Also, it’s fun! Molly’s Podcasting Quick Tips 1. Choose a topic or subject matter that your podcast will focus on. Create a master list of episode ideas and interview guests so when you are low on creative ideas, you can pull from this brain storm session. 2. Get your equipment. I use a Blue Yeti mic, an audio recording box to reduce background noise, Zencastr to record, Audacity to edit, and Libsyn to distribute. 3. Choose your episode length and frequency. Have an idea of how long you want each episode to run: super short or super long? The length of a short walk or the length of a long drive? Then pick how frequently you can produce a new episode. Podcasting is time-intense, so be sure to plan for writing, recording, editing, uploading, and marketing as you conceptualize your episode releases. 4. Marketing. How will you get people to listen and download your episodes? Consider starting a standalone Instagram account for your podcast or share out to your own social channels on podcast debut days. Also think about people in your network who you could bring on as guests so you can grow your audience.
Follow for More The Podcast Lab by Jenna Kutcher Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook Follow Molly Knuth Media on Instagram and Facebook
Livestreaming. Did you just get a little anxious? Did your face turn red and your heart rate surge? This is common when I talk to small business owners about going live on their social platforms. Your first attempt may suck (mine did!), but going live have so many benefits that outweigh sharing prerecorded videos that it’s something I strongly encourage you try. Pressing LIVE on your social feed is scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Why Livestream? Livestreaming can be extremely beneficial to your social media accounts and give you a closer connection you desire with your audience. In a recent Forbes article, it was reported that people watch Facebook live videos 3 times longer than prerecorded videos, AND Facebook users receive 200% more notifications about live videos than about any other type of content. How about that for getting your message out? But the best part? Livestreaming is you. 100% real and unpolished (for the most part). You are coming across authentically, and people will appreciate and forgive you for any miscues that occur. Molly’s LIVEstream Quick Tips 1. Determine your livestream date and topic. This will help you commit to trying live and give you something to talk about. Choose a topic that you know well so it’s easy for you to describe and discuss, and create some talking points on a sheet of paper or your Notes app to help you along the way. 2. Design an opening and closing. Introduce who you are and what the audience should expect from today’s video, and in closing ask the audience to DO something with this information: call you to order, implement this strategy, go to your website to schedule an appointment, or share this video with their friends. 3. Set up your video in a quiet, well-lit location. In polls, live video viewers rated video quality the most important aspect of a livestream, so make sure your audience can see what you are describing and double-check that you have a strong internet connection. Also, make sure there are minimal visual distractions in the background. For sound purposes, sometimes using a microphone or earbuds is your best option, but again, reduce distracting sounds in the background as much as possible. 1. eCamm Live: this downloadable software allows me to share my screen in a way that doesn’t have the “mirror” effect like the native screen share within Facebook LIVE. 2. Tripod: nothing is worse than a shaky camera. Invest in a tripod and camera mount for a minimal cost. 3. Lighting: if you are planning to incorporate regular livestreams or video production, it may be time to get yourself a lighting kit to improve the quality of your final product. Large kits are perfect for larger shots, but you can also get smaller desktop versions if you plan to do mostly screen sharing videos. 4. Get equipment for future broadcasts: I like setting up a recording space for my lives with a few extra components to make the video better for my audience.
Business owners: you’ve got a lot on your plate. But you don’t really need me to tell you that do you. From ordering new product to filling in your inventory spreadsheets to preparing 1099s to taking down the holiday decor to getting back into the swing of things to keeping up to date on the news to writing down your goals for the new year to trying to learn the newest social media platform while creating posts and responding to DMs… Phew! Something’s gotta give. So to make it simple for you, I’ve compiled a list of “Do this, NOT Thats” to help you keep your social media strategy S-I-M-P-L-E this month. Let’s give you some best practices that you can DIY and some social media urban legends you can leave behind for 2020. Do This: Pick a topic of focus Select one thing you’re going to talk about all month. Maybe you want to share who your business is or feature a specific service you offer or launch a new offer. But pick just one BIG topic. As you go through the month, make sure all your social posts tie into that BIG topic. This will create consistency for your followers, and it will help you organize and plan what to share. NOT That: Go in without a plan Don’t get me wrong, it’s happened to me more than once, particularly in busy seasons. But I know that when I don’t have one grounding idea to get me through the month, I’m haphazard, half-assed, and I usually don’t drive sales. Plus I’m feeling the immense pressure of “what do I share today?” Do This: Look at the number of comments, saves, shares and video views to determine success These are those “engagements” you’ve been hearing all about. It means people stop scrolling and pay attention to what you’re sharing. This means you’ve connected with them on something on a higher level. These are harder to get, but more worthwhile in the algorithm. NOT That: Focus only on likes Likes are great, and they are low-hanging fruit, but don’t equate your success with like counts. I’ve known small pages to have mighty loyal followers and large pages whose metrics are inflated by bots from fake accounts. If people are interacting and starting discussions with you, you are doing something right. Do This: Post at specific times and at a frequency that works for you NOT That: Go in posting streaks or post back-to-back Do This: Help your followers by providing real tips and education NOT That: Worry that you’re giving up too much for free Do This: Show your Face NOT That: Make your business faceless
“This is my year!” “Here’s to 2021!” “Let’s do this!” On Monday, January 4, I was inspired, lit up, and ready to tackle all my big goals for the new year. Were you too? Ready to kick 2020 to the curb? Leave the election, social unrest, and coronavirus in last year? By mid-week, it was clear that flipping the calendar to the new year did NOT leave anything in the past (not that I really expected it too, but I’m always optimistic). And with the Capitol insurrection, Republican v. Democrat, and social media dumpster fire of it all, I had had enough. I deleted my Facebook app for the weekend so as to quit dwelling on it. But I couldn’t shove my fingers in my ears and “la-la-la-I-can’t-hear-you” to current events or to my social media client accounts. It is to say that I had to set boundaries around what I wanted to use social media for. Self-Check Do I want social media updates from friends and family so I can see their kids grow up from far away? Yes. Do I want to be called names and have people jump to conclusions about my voting records when I share a video of Joe Biden? No. Do I want to continue using social media to create friendships and help business owners meet their sales goals? Yes. Do I want to contribute to the back-and-forth, fiery rhetoric to prove a point? No. Do I see how social media can be a double-edged sword? YES. Do I believe that we can change the current tide of social media and use it for good? UNDOUBTEDLY YES. But to do that we as a collective need to take responsibility for understanding how the algorithms on these platforms work and how that can impact our decision-making and the conclusions we draw about people and events in the world around us. We need to be able to debate instead of insult. We need to know what is healthy use of social media and what’s not. We need to be neighborly to our social media friends just like our friends we meet at the grocery store. So, how can we be socially responsible as we move forward? 1. Ask yourself how YOU are showing up on social. Are you creating content, sharing happy stories, participating in community news, and uplifting others? Do you choose to share your opinion and participate in heated debate? Or do you observe and keep to yourself? Different personalities will choose to show up differently on social. But I challenge you to SHOW UP and show up with joy if you want to see a different social media newsfeed in ’21. Don’t click on the clickbait headlines, be intentional with the accounts you follow and engage with, and make it a point to spread some good on social. 2. Educate yourself with unbiased, objective news sources. If you get your news from social, you have to be very careful with the source. Due to algorithms on social platforms, you will see more of the types of news you click on and less of the kind you don’t click on (ie: if you only click on articles and videos from left-leaning news sources, you’ll eventually only SEE left-leaning news. Which will then create a large empathy gap with other viewpoints.) This can lead to siloed echo chambers where we only hear the information we agree with and block out or discredit everything else. To combat this, read sources of news from objective news outlets like npr.org or go to http://www.instagram.com/allsides to see side-by-side headline comparisons or http://www.instagram.com/susiesaysso for American government lessons for adults. 3. Take breaks. It’s ok to mute someone who is stealing your joy and peace of mind. It’s healthy to unplug and step back from the social networks. Take a beat to think about if someone’s comment is worth your response before you react. And I highly encourage having important conversations around a dinner table or with a beer instead of behind a keyboard. When we interact in real life, we get cues from body language of the other parties involved, and even if it is a passionate exchange we remember that we are engaged in conversation with a real person. Which can be easy to forget behind the screen of a device. 4. Use social media to create good things. Make art. Share recipes. Show off your kids. Make people laugh. Celebrate someone you love. If enough of us were devoted to celebrating all we love about our lives, we could influence these platforms for the good of us all.
I am NOT perfect, nor do I perfectly implement the above steps at all times. BUT… I am committed to being a light here on social. I want to share education, empowering stories, and love with all of you. And to help you do that too, if you wish to participate, we are sharing our 7-day #mkmjoyfulsocial challenge this month. Click here to get a PDF with 7 days of joy-boosting ideas for your social media feeds. You don’t have to be super techy, and you don’t need to be a business owner. You just need to be a person who wants to see love and neighborly values when you log into Facebook. Let’s flood the social networks with happy smiles and reasons we love our lives and the people in them. Let’s reconnect over our commonalities rather than divide over our differences. Thank you for being here and being a catalyst for change in all the right ways.
NEW, NEW, NEW! Hot off the mic this week is an episode all about your burning questions!
On Instagram, followers submitted the musings on their hearts and minds, and we dive into each with short segments in Episode 19 of Small-Minded. Today’s episode is all your small-business social media questions to help you get your 2021 marketing started off on the right foot. A LOT of questions revolve around Instagram marketing, and in early 2021 we plan to launch another round of our signature Instagram Academy program from Molly Knuth Media. This 5-week group coaching program will help you learn the strategies for operating an Instagram account for your business, as well as give you the hottest insights and growth hacks to grow your followers. To get on the waitlist and be the first to know about our winter ’21 Instagram Academy, join the waitlist here. If you’d like Molly to answer one of your burning questions about small towns or small business, send us a message on one of the social platforms linked below! We may just use it in a future mailbag episode! Hot links mentioned in the episode * Carving out time in your business to strategize and plan your marketing * + uplevel when you feel ready + go easy at first + - don’t pressure yourself or over commit - choose one platform and a manageable number of posts per week + create habits + - checking insights - making a plan - taking action to implement that plan * How to get more engagements on posts * + first, know your audience and what is important to them + figure out what they most need and value from you -→ analyzing your insights helps with this + Facebook: video, posts with multiple images, adding a messenger button, giveaways, or community-centric posts play well for engagement + Instagram: stickers on stories, carousels, reels, calls to action * What to talk about on Instagram stories * + anything + create conversations with your followers using polls and question boxes or quizzes + create a weekly series + behind-the-scenes of your business + you talking to the camera * How to add music on Instagram Reels * + Business v. Creator accounts + InShot app + TikTok * How to balance post topics for business social media accounts * + first, get consistent + post anything you have handy in your content library + then, use the pillar system - shout out to the Queen, Allie Reeves + - pick a big topic for the month - pick a smaller topic for each week - all content that week feeds into your weekly topic which supports your monthly topic * Hashtags on Instagram * + do your research + make a spreadsheet + use the HishHash app * Finding content ideas for social media when you have no inspiration * + Ask your Audience + Keep a list in your Notes App + Consider FAQs + Follow other accounts that inspire you and save to re-imagine/repurpose for yourself + answerthepublic.com * How to schedule posts * + on Canva + on Facebook + on Instagram + on Planoly
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2020 doesn’t have to be a lost year. For some of us it was hard, full of obstacles and ever-changing rules and challenges. And some of us had huge health battles to overcome. The closing of a chapter. Others of us can use this year as a launching point, a teachable moment to steer us in a new direction and get clear on our bigger purpose. I hope for most of you listening, 2020 will go down as the latter. Reflecting on the past 12 months is about more than numbers though, it’s about being wealthy in all the other ways that one can be. 1. business 2. personal wellness 3. relationships with family, friends, and self 4. home 5. community
Today, I’ll share my very basic year-end reflection process and what I’m doing to navigate 2021! 1. Crafting a vision board: this visual representation of goals through images can be done in a physical sense (cutting and pasting pictures and quotes from books and magazines) or digitally through software like Canva. Let your mind wander as you pick out photos that speak to you or represent your goals for the new year. What I’ve found most helpful about vision boards is that even if I’m not actively meditating on them or even looking at the board each day, just having the photos in my immediate physical space helps me to think about these goals and bring them to life.
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Word of the Year: by picking a word of focus each year, it helps me come back to my intentions and big goals for the time ahead. In 2020, my word was “joy” and while each day wasn’t joyful, having this word as a reminder made me more aware of creating and seeking out joy even on the darkest days of the pandemic.
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Breaking down big goals into smaller steps: when I put a picture of a podcast mic on my vision board in 2020, I looked at it for 6 months without achieving anything. Having the photo wasn’t enough. So mid-year, I broke the big goal of launching a podcast into smaller steps for each month so that I could launch the Small-Minded Podcast in August. I got big sticky sheets of paper that I could hang on the walls of my office as a reminder of my tasks for each month. As I conquered these smaller steps, it gave me momentum to keep going and even though it took me a little longer than intended (September), those small steps added up to my ultimate goal.
In 2021, I’m going to incorporate these same strategies as I plan and vision for my family, my business, and myself. Let me know what you’re doing to create goals and resolutions for the new year in the comments below! Important Links from the episode: Episode 348 of the Online Marketing Made Easy podcast with Amy Porterfield and Patrice Washington: https://www.amyporterfield.com/2020/11/348/ Enneagram Info https://www.truity.com/blog/breaking-down-enneagram-guide-total-beginners
How many of you have paused recently to look around and say “man, what a year?” In this holiday season of 2020, we are facing some unique challenges and changes to our traditional holiday celebrations, but today on the Small-Minded Podcast, I am sharing all of the uplifting ways people in small towns are still coming together and inspiring hope. 1. Reflections on the River 2. Community Outreach: Resources Unite angel tree, Secret Santa meals, grocery store food pantry add-on, fundraisers and tax deductions 3. Virtual Options: live-stream mass, Zoom music recital, recorded holiday programs for schools, virtual Santa visits 4. Outdoor options: Reflections in the Park, nursing home decorations, storefront window decorating contest, decorating care center windows, Christmas parade, 5. Small Business support: focus on local, spreading the word on social media, creative offers, leaving reviews, giveaways, giving back to their own communities
Business Marketing Year-End As we all say a collective goodbye to 2020 (and good riddance), there are a few things we need to do as business owners to get our marketing in line for ’21. Yes, it can be as simple as flipping the calendar and utilizing the same strategies as we enter January, but here are the tips and trends I’m seeing for small business marketing in the next 12 months: Tip #1: Audit your social feeds. Look over all your social profiles and your website. Where are you seeing the most business as a result of your efforts? This is different from just your follower count. Determine which platforms have the most engaged audiences, are the best use of your time, and genuinely build know-like-trust with your potential clients. Dedicate yourself to focusing on those platforms in ’21. Trend #1: Instagram and TikTok reign supreme. If we’re talking about the platforms that are HOT coming out of 2020, these two are definitely it. TikTok really gained steam earlier this year going from 40 million active users at the end of 2019 to more than 100 million active users in August of 2020 (CNBC). TikTok hinges on video content, whether entertaining, educational, or downright silly. These less-than-one-minute videos are quick and succinct, and it’s found a niche among people during quarantine. Songs gain popularity, challenges trend, and stars are born on this “new” app. Facebook INC took note in 2020, and added a new feature to its Instagram platform with Reels, their 15-30 second take on the short video content format. Not only are these videos popular, but accounts using Reels on Instagram are getting crazy engagement and algorithm boosts just for trying it out. My tip: don’t sleep on this. Get to work creating short video clips and playing around in either TikTok or IG Reels. Tip #2: Dig into your data. My favorite part of Facebook and Instagram is the in-depth analytics you can get. Head to the “Insights” tab on Facebook or connect to Planoly on Instagram to get long-range data downloads for your accounts. In these insights, you can see how many devices you reached and how many engagements your posts yielded. You can dig into follower growth, video views, link clicks, and conversions too. By looking at this data from the big-picture aspect, you can see just HOW MUCH you have accomplished in the past year. We can get caught up in the day-to-day grind and incremental growth of social media marketing, but when we take a bird’s-eye view, we have a much better picture of how we’ve connected with our audience in the past 12 months. Looking at YTD data also helps determine trends so we can make educated decisions going forward. See more engagement from real-life photos of you? Schedule in more of those kind of posts in the new year! Want more targeted growth among your ideal clients? Maybe take a class in Facebook Ads and set a goal to run a full-on campaign in Q1 of ’21. Know your numbers and make smart choices for the next 12 months. Trend #2: “The Real Reel” We all know that social media is just a portion of the lives of people we see on the screens of our devices. In 2020 amidst the global lockdown, social media stars and influencers weren’t able to flash around on yachts or private jets, and high-end fashion and luxurious photoshoots were put on hold. What emerged was a much more real look at modern life. Candid photos (albeit filtered with presets and Lightroom) were connecting with the masses. Home life hacks and true stories of balancing family and business outperformed highly photoshopped images and overproduced videos. In 2021, I expect this to continue. Share the behind-the-scenes, tell stories, and don’t pressure yourself to have everything “perfect” on your social feeds. Just get out there and get posting. Tip #3: Repurpose your content. The holiday season is always busy with baking and board games, wrapping and wrangling kids, tax planning and time off work. So don’t stress over creating new content all the days of December. My favorite strategy for the last two weeks of the month is repurposing posts from throughout the year into a “Best of” series. I use the Insights on my Facebook account or Planoly to determine which posts were my highest performers, and I simply copy and paste into a countdown for the days between Christmas and New Years. It’s efficient, it’s engaging (again), and it allows me to step away from the screen and be present with my family. Trend #3: Consistency is key. If I’ve learned anything in the crazy changes of 2020, it’s that some things never change. And the importance of continuously showing up on social is one of those classic standbys that you can count on to help you grow on social. Whatever consistent looks like for your business, whether 2 posts per week or 1 post each day, commit to a schedule that works for you. When you are consistent, the algorithm will reward you, and your audience will build trust that you are a dependable person and business. In my December program “All I Want for Christmas is VIEWS” the members are seeing the direct benefits of having a monthly plan and implementing consistency on social. If you do nothing else for your social feeds in ’21, make sure consistency is it. And there you have it, the Molly Knuth Media Tips and Trends for 2021 small business social media marketing. Is there anything you would add? Let me know in the comments. I’d love to hear your hot takes!
This week at the Small-Minded Podcast by Molly Knuth Media we welcome Dawn Kress, wife, mom, ag-vocate, virtual educator and chaos coordinator, to the podcast. I first met Dawn in the spring of 2019 at social media conference in Iowa, then fast forward two months and I saw her again at RISE with Rachel Hollis. It was clear to me that this woman was devoted to personal development and empowering women in business, and she just radiated light and energy when she interacted with others. Over the years we've kept in touch, encouraging one another and seeing our businesses thrive in rural Iowa. So, when starting this podcast, I knew that her mission to help women live into their passions and eliminate the stressors in mind, body, and home, would be an episode we had to make happen. Through her blog and online courses, Dawn helps women take control of their lives. She walks women through decluttering their spaces, whether their minds, their homes, or their bodies, to see the benefits of a simplified approach. And in the process, she sees her students alleviating stress and adding joy all around them. In today's episode you'll hear a woman who holds a full-time job while also running a side hustle, a mom who is raising three busy girls with active schedules, a farm wife who can help in the yards at a moment's notice, a community volunteer and activist, a cancer survivor, and an empowered woman raising us all up. I'm so excited to share my friend Dawn with you in this week's episode: Join Dawn's online community and get on the list for her Body Declutter course happening in January 2021! Mental Edits VIP Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/MentalEditsVIP/ Body Declutter Wait List https://view.flodesk.com/pages/5f90f0a6359e8b1b68b8961a
This week at the Small-Minded Podcast by Molly Knuth Media we welcome Janene King, founder of Empower Her Co, a community of female entrepreneurs.
When I first met Janene in early 2018, it was immediately apparent that she had a gift for bringing people together in a way that made them feel comfortable, welcome, and in community with one another.
With a passion for making female business owners feel like they had a seat at the conference table and a safe space to find guidance and direction, Janene founded Empower Her Co. Women in the group meet twice monthly in Eastern Iowa to receive actionable tips for moving the needle in their small businesses and collaborate with like-minded entrepreneurs.
With a loving heart and clear vision of how she can help women grow into their dreams, Janene has even bigger goals planned for 2021. I’m so excited and proud of her, and I can’t wait to share this interview with you all at Small-Minded.
Listen to this week’s episode for all her business suggestions and advice, and see below for some of my key takeaways from our conversation:
Key Takeaways:
-There is space for everyone in small towns and small business
-A group is not dependent on the leader, but the stories and inspiration that all members bring to the table
-Setting up foundational components of your business is crucial: organizing your finances, packaging and pricing your services
-Hiring a coach can propel you forward in your business, and many of them specialize in specific areas where you can get help
-There is something special that happens when a group of women can get together around a table in spirit of growth and community
-Personal growth is a continuous commitment and looks different in various seasons of life and business
Work with Janene and Empower Her Co
If you’re ready to join a community of like-minded female business owners, head to empowerher.co to join the collective and attend a meet-up!
Connect with us:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Follow our Guest, Janene King and Empower Her Co:
www.empowerher.co
https://www.facebook.com/EmpowerHer.Co
https://www.instagram.com/EmpowerHer.Co
I admit it…I am a serial content consumer.
I follow influencers, mentors, people in my same line of work, celebrities, local celebrities, to get an idea of what they’re posting and how I can incorporate similar information on my own accounts. I love seeing the creative ways other people design and share information on social media, and especially as I was starting out, this strategy of follow and learn really helped me expand my knowledge base and skill set.
Once I started learning, though, I needed to learn how to take this information and put it into action. Action in the form of actual posts for social media.
I knew how to create short videos using simple tools like Windows Movie Maker and designing really basic graphics with Microsoft Publisher, but what I needed was a tool that could help me create graphics faster and with a more refined look. I tried programs like Adobe PhotoShop and LightRoom, but those programs were beyond my comprehension at that stage and frankly had too much power and too many tools at my disposal.
So I downloaded some apps from the App Store, and played around with those until I created some graphics that I thought would work for the time being…but I still wasn’t satisfied. I still lacked the ability to create consistent, convenient, branded designs for myself and my clients. Then in March 2017, my digital world was upended.
Enter Canva: my end-all, be-all design tool.
What is Canva?
Canva is an online website that takes the stress and guess work out of graphic design. With templates for everything from greeting cards to restaurant menus to Snapchat filters and Instagram stories, everything you need for you business’ in-house graphics is located at www.canva.com. It’s basically an online graphic designer, but you are in charge of your own designs.
Why I love it
There are lots of reasons but here’s a list of my top 5:
I can create consistent, branded images. The paid version that I use saves my logos, fonts, and brand colors to my account, so I can save time by not having to constantly look everything up.
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The template library is phenomenal. Gone are the days where I need to try to be a graphic designer with my teaching/ed tech degree. So many great templates are already in the site, and all I need to do is customize them to my brand to make it look like me.
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Easily save in a variety of formats. Want to make a GIF? Canva can do that. Need a high-res PDF with crop and bleed marks? Done. Need a png with transparent background for your logo? CANVA CAN DO THAT TOO! With the press of two buttons.
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Auto-save. All my designs are backed up every few seconds, saved to my account, and accessible from any device, anywhere.
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Customer service. Occassionally Canva goes down. It’s system is overwhelmed and you cannot access your designs. It can be a sad, frustrating day for this digital marketer who uses Canva for nearly all aspects of her business. But the silver lining is that Canva’s PR/customer service department is phenomenal. They are alway a step ahead by providing updates on Twitter, and they take the time to respond to each and every comment personally. It warms my heart and makes me love them even more.
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Constantly Adding New and Better Features. From background remover to circular text to the ability to make a TikTok, Canva is growing and adapting to the needs of their audience. I love seeing them add to their libraries and features for small business owners.
Ready to Jump into Canva Creation?
Check out this 15-minute Canva Crash Course from MKM or head over to our MKM Shop for a self-guided Canva workshop where I teach all my favorite tips and tricks!
Biz Spotlight:
Small-Minded Design Workshop from Molly Knuth Media
Kick up the quality and function of your designs If you’re a small business owner or community volunteer looking for ways to spread the message for your favorite business, nonprofit or school, check out the MKM Small-Minded Design: Canva Workshop for Small-Town, Small Business owners.
With your purchase, you receive:
90-minute Canva training from Molly inside private Facebook Group (originally recorded live, but you can watch, pause, and return at your convenience)
Instruction on making digital and print marketing assets including static posts, photo posts, videos, posters and more
User tips for navigation of Canva, removing white backgrounds, and downloading images with transparent backgrounds
20-page workbook with instruction on basic design principles and step-by-steps for Canva’s free version vs. Canva Pro’s paid version
50+ customizable Canva templates curated by Molly that you can customize and use in your own marketing
Bonus mini-trainings explaining additional tips and tricks
Q&A opportunities inside the Facebook Group
Confidence that you have professional-looking marketing assets at the fraction of the price
Head over to mollyknuthmedia.com/shop to start designing today!
Connect with us:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
NEW, NEW, NEW! Hot off the mic is an episode all about your burning questions!
On Instagram, followers submitted the musings on their hearts and minds, and we dive into each with short segments in Episode 12 of Small Minded.
From the accounts I love to follow on social media to the origins of Facebook to amenities I’d love to see in my own town to the small businesses on my own holiday list, we cover it all in today’s episode!
If you’d like Molly to answer one of your burning questions about small towns or small business, send us a message on one of the social platforms linked below! We may just use it in a future mailbag episode!
Links that I mention in today’s episode:
Resources I used to grow my business
-Canva
-Adobe Spark Post
Starting a Podcast
-Jenna Kutcher The Podcast Lab
-Blue Yeti Mic
-Zencastr Recording Software
-Libsyn
Businesses on my Christmas list
-Allison Marie Designs
-Dirt Road Candle Co
-The Midwest Girl
-Sweat Inspire Sisterhood
-Decorah High Point Cabins
-Local restaurants, eateries, breweries, coffee shops
Covid-friendly holiday options for small towns
-Shop Small Virtual Event
Podcast Summary:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Does social media marketing for your small business feel like a puzzle?
Today our host Molly shares 3 important tips you can implement right away to help you maximize the effectiveness of your social media strategy.
-You are the guide for your audience
Marketing that resonates with audiences does more than sell a unique product or well-priced service.
It positions the audience as the hero of his/her own story and gives that person the power to improve their life or current situation. You as the business owner with the product or service that will help the hero, should position yourself as the guide. You have the wisdom and advice the hero needs to take action.
Think about it.
Farmer’s Insurance commercials feature the homeowner as hero who called insurance to rectify their accident, and the insurance agent is the guide who knew which policy/claim could help.
Or those Old Spice commercials from the late ‘00s…the hero wasn’t the deodorant stick. It was the man who could turn oysters into diamonds, rode horses shirtless, and had the ladies fawning all over him. Old Spice was just the guide/tool that helped him achieve these things.
When we put our audience in the position to be the hero, they are the winner and the empowered party. We as the business or brand offer wisdom and assistance to help them reach goals, which is even more powerful for establishing trust and developing business relationships in the future.
-Be a storyteller, not a salesman (or woman)
Have you ever been invited to a work function, and you cringe at the thought of being seated next to that guy who always talks about the same things and only focuses on how great he is in each conversation?
It gets old really fast, and you find yourself avoiding that person at all costs.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, there’s the person who always has the funniest stories. They take the most mundane topics and turn them into teachable lessons or side-splitting jokes that you love to hear more of.
In your online marketing you have the opportunity to be like person #2.
When sharing your products and services, don’t be the one-trick-pony repeating your sales pitch in each post.
Come up with creative videos, project features that span several days, interviews with team members, tutorials, and various formats that keep your audience on the edge of their seats and craving more of your content.
This approach keeps your audience engaged. And while every post may not directly lead to a sale, it creates a positive reputation for your brand and keeps you top of mind when someone needs what you have to sell.
-Calls to Action are key
Never leave your audience hanging at the end of a post or piece of content. If you don’t tell your followers the next action to take, they won’t take any at all. So share with them what they can do next to feel empowered.
Calls to Action (CTAs) can be as simple as “like this post if you agree!” or more complex like “Dial 555-555-5555 to get on our winter schedule!” The call to action should tie in to the topic of your post and to your overall social media strategy for the day.
In Conclusion
None of these concepts are uniquely mine. I learned a lot of them by reading Building a Storybrand by Donald Miller in early 2018. But as I implemented his strategies over the years, I found out their effectiveness firsthand.
Less of this strategy has to do with what you do or make, and more of how you connect to the PEOPLE you do business with. People like to do business with people, people like to talk with real people, and people like to feel important and valued.
Social media should not be a corkboard where you post daily updates about how awesome you are. That will offput your followers.
Instead, think of social media platforms as your platform for telling stories and crafting touchpoints that help your audience relate to what you offer.
Then you will have a successful social media strategy that is engaging and effective for your small-town small business.
Biz Spotlight:
Gravel Grading & Excavating
For almost two decades, Gravel Grading & Excavating has provided a broad spectrum of residential, commercial and agricultural grading and excavating services to Cascade, Iowa, and surrounding area. From site preparation, to sewer and septic installation, to tile and drainage of farm fields, they can move the earth for you! Visit their website at www.gravelgradingx.com or follow them on Facebook to see examples of their projects and get in touch with their crew!
Connect with us:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Buy Molly’s favorite marketing book: Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller
Follow our business spotlight, Gravel Grading & Excavating:
www.gravelgradingx.com
http://www.facebook.com/gravelgradingx
Do you have a website for your small business? Have you updated your website in the last 9 months? If you said no to either of those questions, today’s episode is just for you!
This week at the Small-Minded Podcast by Molly Knuth Media we have our second guest interview with my friend Caryssa O’Connell of Franklin + Willow, graphic and web designer from Manchester, Iowa…and it is MUST-LISTEN.
In 2020, we learned the advantages of having our small businesses set-up with digital presence to facilitate communication even if we can’t meet our clients and customers in-person. But sometimes we can drop the ball if our social feeds haven’t been updated since last month, or worse yet, if we can’t be found at all online.
In today’s episode of the Small-Minded Podcast, my friend Caryssa tells us why it’s so important for small-town small business owners to have not just a site, but a beautiful, streamlined website for potential customers to build that know-like-trust factor they need to be able to do business with you.
Key Takeaways:
-Sometimes moving away from your small town for a little bit is what you need to appreciate the way of life a small town can afford you.
-Starting a small business looks different for everyone. Some people see entrepreneurship in their future, but
-Even small towns can be in the middle of everything and tap into resources and people from towns down the road.
-Small business owners who help other small business owners have the unique, beautiful opportunity to grow community and grow THEIR communities.
-It’s more important than ever for small businesses to get online with a website.
-Branded photos that are high-quality can make your website shine. Do not use iphone photos alone for your small biz site. Work with a brand photographer to get high-resolution, scroll-stopping images.
-Copywriting (the text on your site) can also be a gamechanger in the effectiveness of your site and getting visitors to take the actions you’d like them to. If writing isn’t your forte, copywriting can be hired out with experts.
-Don’t forget your Call-To-Actions (CTA’s) guiding visitors through your site and showing them where to go next. Think about it like giving a tour of your home!
For more action-packed tips and best practices for small business websites, listen to the full episode with Caryssa of Franklin and Willow!
Work with Caryssa
If you want to have a show-stopping online storefront for your business before the end of 2020, contact Caryssa at Franklin + Willow today. Whether you’re looking for a done-in-a-day website or a longer process over the course of a few weeks, Caryssa has flexible options to help you get set up before the new year.
Connect with us:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Follow our Guest, Caryssa O’Connell:
https://www.facebook.com/franklinandwillow
https://www.instagram.com/franklinandwillow
https://franklinandwillow.com/
This week at the Small-Minded Podcast by Molly Knuth Media we have our very first guest interview with my friend Andrea Mausser of Choose Your Journey Health & Life Coaching.
When I first met Andrea a couple years ago, it was in a women’s online fitness group. Not only was Andrea consistently showing up by completing the daily workouts and nutrition challenges, but she was offering encouragement for other group members and suggestions to help them meet their goals.
So it was a natural progression that Andrea followed her path of personal development to become a certified health & life coach in late 2019.
Now Andrea helps busy moms find balance so they can be a priority in their own lives and reach their goals. She is a master of habit change to help women become more intentional in their daily lives. Listen to this week’s episode for all her life lessons and advice, and see below for some of my key takeaways from our conversation:
Key Takeaways:
The journey is not always easy in small business ownership, but when you have enough passion, you will make it work.
It’s a big world, but it’s a small world…especially in small towns. People in your community and beyond can connect you with people to help you grow your business and life in a small town.
When one aspect of our lives gets off-balance, it can throw other aspects of our life out of whack too, so we need those grounding habits and practices to connect us back to ourselves.
It’s not selfish to take care of ourselves, in fact it’s vital if we want our lives to flourish.
Create an anchor: a physical reminder of your priorities, who you are, and where you want to go.
We are not being lazy when we say “no” to certain opportunities. We can be very productive and have high energy by disengaging with things that take our energy away.
Finding appreciation in even the smallest things can make our day so much better.
Work with Andrea
If you want to become a more confident, intentional, grateful person, follow Andrea on Facebook and Instagram, and schedule a consultation to discuss your personal goals!
Connect with us:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Follow our Guest, Andrea Mausser:
https://www.facebook.com/ChooseYourJouneyHealthandLifeCoach
https://www.instagram.com/chooseyourjourneywithandrea/
If I asked you, “what would make your small town thrive?”…would you have an idea?
Maybe you’re thinking of a new event that would bring in visitors from out of town.
Maybe you know how to bring in new volunteers for that committee that needs a breath of fresh air.
Maybe you know of a family looking for a new town to move to.
Or maybe you have dreams of a new type of business that your small town could benefit from.
Many of us have dreams of how to take our small towns into the future, but we don’t know exactly how to start. At the same time in many small towns, we have to overcome stigmas of failed undertakings of years gone by and feelings of “this is the way it’s always been.”
So as creatives or movers and shakers with new ideas for our town, it can be intimidating to initiate large scale change.
Today at Small-Minded Podcast, we’re sharing the story of one small town in Iowa, and how the citizens in that community are embracing change and seeing positive returns as a result.
Community Projects
One way to
People
Get Strategic
Biz Spotlight:
Podcast Summary:
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Check out our Business Spotlight http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/shop
This week at Small-Minded, we discuss our first small-town jobs, in particular working at the local café or restaurant.
From learning about guest service to performing under pressure, many life lessons can be learned while running from table to table in those slip-resistant shoes of a server.
In today’s episode, we’ll tackle some of my key takeaways from my first jobs in the restaurant industry.
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Check out our Business Spotlight
- http://www.facebook.com/twogingerstavernandeatery
- http://www.instagram.com/twogingerstavernandeatery
- http://www.twogingerstavernandeatery.com
How do you know when it’s time to hire on help at your business?
For some industries, extra hands are needed right away, like if you’re a building contractor, a restaurant, or a boutique. You need more people to cover your hours of operation and provide optimal customer service, so you build a team from the get-go.
But in other industries, growth happens slower. If you’re a solopreneur or freelancer, you may take months or even years to get to a point of needing to hire help. In this business model, it’s also hard to know who and how to hire, and if you have enough work to keep someone busy part-time.
So in today’s episode we discuss a few options for bringing someone on board your team if you’re looking to grow.
Intern: student from high school or college who is looking to gain experience in a career field. Can be paid or unpaid, and you can determine which ways to bring trainee into your operation.
Virtual Assistant: remote worker who specializes in helping businesses in a variety of administrative roles. He/she can help with digital files, organizing calendars, or managing systems and processes within your business. This person operates as an independent contractor separate from your business.
Specialized Independent Contractor: truthfully, I had to look this up: an independent contractor is paid to achieve a result, not for hours worked. Many times these independent contractors are specialized and fulfill a specific niche your business needs to bolster: marketing, accounting, bookkeeping, etc.
Part-time/Full-time Payroll: if you need someone in-house to assist you for a particular number of hours in a week, then it’s time to establish a payroll.
Which of these do I use within my own small business and how did I know when it was time to bring someone on board? Listen to this week’s episode of the Small-Minded Podcast for more!
Biz Spotlight:
Forge Inc.
Eastern Iowa is the quintessential Midwest way of life. Where commutes can be counted in minutes, cornfields roll into historic main streets and bustling metros, and hard work and family values are valued above all else.
The people at Forge love this lifestyle, and they are here to help our communities in Eastern Iowa thrive.
Forge, Inc. based in Anamosa, Iowa, is the residential and commercial real estate developer who can help you design what you’re looking for in your next home or commercial space.
Because they value the Midwestern way of life, they are committed to providing a high-touch, personalized experience as you work with their team to turn your next home or office dreams into reality.
They provide the simple, flexible, easy building and design experience that you value alongside a team of professionals with nearly two decades in the industry.
If you’re looking to make Eastern Iowa the location of your next residential or commercial property, let Forge, Inc. be the ones to welcome you home.
Find them on Facebook @forgeiowa.
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook @smallmindedpodcast
Check out our Business Spotlight
www.facebook.com/forgeinc
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Check out our Business Spotlight
www.facebook.com/aquinlittleangels
Perfection. It’s the quality we all strive for, even though we know it’s impossible to attain. Pushing for “perfect” can be a great quality because it motivates us to do better and put forth our very best. But the quest for perfection can paralyze us into inaction, particularly if we are business owners launching something new.
Join Molly from the Small-Minded Podcast as she walks listeners through the three-step process she uses to push past her own perfectionist tendencies and take imperfect actionable steps.
Read the full show notes here: http://www.mollyknuthmedia.com/podcast
Follow Small-Minded on Instagram and Facebook
Check out our Business Spotlight
www.paintedhorsesaloon.com
http://www.facebook.com/paintedhorsesalooniowa
http://www.instagram.com/paintedhorsesalooniowa
Also known as how a mom of 4 started a social media marketing business out of her home office while only one kid was old enough to be in school and all the lessons she learned as a result...LOL!
Please don’t let that intro scare you off!
I open with that anecdote just to say that no matter your dream or your current situation, small towns need the idea you have and the unique skills you offer your community.
My favorite thing about small towns are the variety of industries represented. From skilled trades, to remote workers in Fortune 500 companies, to factories that started from small one-stall garages, to a frozen meal delivery service, I’ve seen all of these unfold in recent years in Eastern Iowa.
And if you’ve had an idea in your heart about a way you can serve your community and benefit the lives of those around you by starting your own small business, here’s what I recommend you do today to get your small business off the ground:
- Gather your courage to take your first step.This can be the biggest hurdle you have to leap. Feeling all the fear of other people’s opinions, risks you assume, debt you assume, and constant question of “will this really work?” is real. But I truly believe that at some point you get so uncomfortable where you are that it is more painful to stay stuck than to take that step to your new endeavor. Once you’ve decided on yourself and announced your new move, you will feel such relief and motivation to keep progressing that you’ll wonder what took you so long in the first place! ...Can you tell I have experience in this area? So take my advice and start with one small step. You aren’t required to write a business plan tomorrow or take out an operating line of credit, but you do need to make one move that gets your dream closer to reality.
- Branding yourself: develop your visual and verbal brand assets.
- Visual branding assets include your logo, brand colors, and type faces that make up how you want your business to be seen. When developing your logo, I highly recommend working with a professional designer who is in your budget. I always opt to look local first, but if you can’t stretch your dollars Fiverr and Upwork are good options that are more cost-effective. Do not design a logo on Canva, even though I love this website. This will not make yous stand out among your industry. Use your logo and the colors and typefaces that make it everywhere from your IG grid to your outfits to your printed marketing materials. Think about what your looks convey to your audience by researching color psychology and font psychology and use it to your advantage by consistently using it where ever your business shows up to create brand recognition.
- Verbal: the way you speak to your audience matters. Will you keep a professional tone or do you prefer a more casual method of communication? Make sure you are consistent in the way you write and speak when it comes to your business.
- Reach out to others
- Nothing is worse than putting time, money, and faith into something that fails. Many times, we as the business owner think we have the solution to all the world’s problems, but what we really need is to place ourselves in the shoes of our audience. Talk to them, survey them, and make sure that your offer is something people actually want. Ensure that your offer has validity before you get too far in your build.
- Talk to other business owners and mentors you look up to and see if he/she would be willing to give you some pointers.Business owners learn through experience, and you can set yourself months or years ahead of the learning curve by getting in touch with those who have walked the path before you. Ask for their advice and help.
- Develop your digital real estate. First, create a website. This is your owned space online,and you can do with as you please. Create an online storefront, a digital portfolio, a treasure trove of resources for your visitors, or whatever you think will most resonate with your ideal customer. Then get on the social media platforms that make sense for your region and industry to help spread the word of you and your new venture. Social is the way to share your products and services and get your ideal audience talking about you in an exponential way. So there you have it. The four things you need to do today to get your small business off the ground and living and breathing in your small town. Remember small steps can lead to big impact. Even the smallest measures of progress are still getting you a little closer to your dream. You can do this. Believe that you have the skills and abilities to make this real.
Biz Spotlight: Molly Knuth Media Molly Knuth Media helps small-town small businesses share their products and services online so they can generate leads and then get back to doing what they love.Molly and her team know that being a small business owner requires you to be a trades person, bookkeeper, accountant, HR manager, IT tech, marketer, and 100 other jobs throughout your workday. So MKM is here to help you get your time back by helping you clarify your marketing message, streamline your social marketing, connect with customers, and get back to doing what you love. Let’s help you market your small business better online. Check out mollyknuthmedia.com for her collaborative services, shop full of DIY resources, and registration for the upcoming Instagram Academy, a 5-week Instagram intensive to get your small business groovin’ on the ‘gram.
This one is for my small-town small business owners, volunteers, and community organizers, and it’s a topic I’m passionate about.
If you have a product to sell, a service that helps somebody, or a mission that the masses need to know about, then you need to get online and share it on social media, my friend.
I know that it seems like social media is a dumpster fire at this point of 2020 or that as a busy small-town soul you may not have the time to plan and implement a strategized social media approach, but I promise, people out there on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and even TikTok are looking for the unique set of skills and services you provide to your community.
And if that’s not enough, here are seven more reasons why your small-town small business (or school or nonprofit or City) needs to be online:
- Social Media allows your news/updates to spread like wildfire. With a simple press of the SHARE button, your content can be spread exponentially among your target followers.
- Meeting your target audience where they are at. Social media is where a large demographic of adults spend their downtime. Statistics show that the average Facebook user logs in daily. That’s 365 opportunities to get in touch with your ideal customer. With social media you can meet them where they are at!
- It’s personal. Your area of the internet is your place to celebrate how your business is unique: ie, the ranch dressing theory. There may be 100,000 other businesses who do the same thing as you do, but I bet there is only one who has your unique processes and team members in your community…and I bet people want to know more about it.
- Digital marketing is dynamic! Social & websites can easily and quickly be updated or adjusted to reflect new offers, a change in services, correct a typo, and more. It’s versatile and flexible for your ever-changing needs in a small town.
- You get cold, hard facts & statistics. No more vague answers about readership or listenership. Your social media insights allow you to see exactly how many devices your posts appeared on and how many people clicked over to take action in working with you. This helps you more effectively measure your marketing ROI and budgeting for future advertising campaigns.
- Cost-effective. If you want to keep this low-budget, you can do so for the easy price of $0. For real. If you handle your own marketing on social and create your own content for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, you can do so at no cost. How many other marketing avenues can guarantee that price?
- Customer service. These days, people expect you to have a digital presence, and not only that, but a digital presence that offers customer service follow-through. Make it easy for your clients and customers to ask questions and share their thoughts about your business by having a space on social media.
Want more? Listen to Episode 2 of the Small-Minded Podcast for details.
And if you need free tools and resources to get your social media going, head over to mollyknuthmedia.com or @mollyknuthmedia on Facebook and Instagram for training videos, free downloads, and more!
Our first small business spotlight:
McAllister Electrical Services
In 2002, electricians Pete and Christine McAllister knew they had a unique skill set that the town of Cascade, Iowa, and the surrounding area could greatly use. Together they created McAllister Electrical Services, providing customers with electrical wiring and servicing for agricultural, commercial and residential buildings. Ability to perform aerial jobs with their bucket truck, leading a home inspection, ordering decorative lamps and fixtures, and increasing efficiency with LED retrofitting and solar systems, are just a few of the services that set our company apart.
So whether you are in the market for new construction or maintenance on an existing structure, McAllister Electrical Services has the experience and resources to get the job done right the first time and provide you with service that matters. Contact them today for your free planning and estimates at 563-852-7484 or mcallisterelectricalservices.com.
Member American Builders & Contractors (ABC), Better Business Bureau (BBB) & Cascade Area Chamber of Commerce.
By definition “small-minded” means having or showing rigid opinions or a narrow outlook; petty.
And though this sometimes is associated with tiny towns, I find that in these places you find creativity, volunteerism, and HEART, that make the people in these places full of love, hope, and vision for a better future.
So I want to flip the script.
I want small-minded to show that playing small can be a good thing.
By choosing small-town life we have the ability to create change quicker. We have schools with smaller class sizes. We can see our tax dollars at work. We know our neighbors. We take food to the sick. We can walk down the street and wave to each passing car. We’ve “gravel traveled” and know that sometimes those destinationless car rides are just where you need to be.
This is what I think it means to be small-minded. Valuing and celebrating where we came from and all that makes small living a great thing.