Play It Brave Podcast: Recent Episodes

D'Arcy Benincosa

The podcast for brave creatives who live in a world that wants you to play it safe.

It's time to face facts: You are an indestructible woman fused with super powers that defy convention. Am I right? If so, then this podcast is for you!

In Play It Brave, D'Arcy Benincosa dives in deep to her wit and wisdom to teach you about creative a life full of mindset, money, and marketing miracles! Let's get started!

You can know exactly why you do something and still keep doing it.

You can know where the pattern came from. You can have journaled about it, talked about it, analyzed it, named it—and then Tuesday comes around and there you are, doing the thing again.

Because understanding a pattern and changing a pattern are two different skills.

In this episode, I'm taking you inside the work I've fallen completely in love with: how I lead a client through a major Breakthrough. Not a quick mindset shift. Not another affirmation pasted over something you don't actually believe. The deeper work of finding the emotions, decisions, internal conflicts and old conclusions that may still be influencing the life you're living now.

I'm also sharing what this work has changed in me—including the end of my own panic attacks, the difference between being watched and being seen, and the three words I'm choosing to organize my own life around now.

And for the first time, I'm opening a small number of private Breakthrough spaces at founding pricing.

If there's something in your life you understand—but still can't seem to change—this episode is for you.

If you've ever tried to force yourself out of procrastination, you know how well that works.

You can know exactly what to do. You can have the time. You can want the result so badly it aches — and still find yourself answering emails, returning something to Nordstrom, or deciding the junk drawer has to be dealt with right now. That isn't laziness. Laziness would be doing nothing, and you are doing a great deal. You're just not doing the one thing that matters.

Which means the problem was never your character. It's the state you're in.

In this first Rewire Friday, D'Arcy takes you inside a training room where a woman she calls Sarah volunteered her procrastination for a demonstration and landed on the honest word for it: not incapable, not lazy. Stagnant. And instead of asking how to make her motivated, the trainer asked the question almost nobody asks — what would get you out of the state you're in?

Inside: what a state actually is and why naming one changes what you can do next, the cost of turning a behavior into an identity, the difference between the states that push you and the states that pull you — and why procrastination is neither, which is exactly why willpower slides off it.

Ten minutes, one rewire, one question to ask before Monday.

Timestamps:

2:27 — The word that changes everything: not incapable, not lazy — stagnant
3:00 — The trainer's question instead of "How do we get you motivated?"
3:32 — Why wanting the result isn't enough—and the difference between desire and the state that creates action
4:08 — Why motivation is rarely the next state, and finding the bridge that gets you there
6:11 — The cost of turning a behavior into an identity: "I procrastinated, so I'm lazy"
6:57 — States that push you, states that pull you, and why procrastination is neither
8:15 — Chaining anchors: what change work actually looks like, and why D'Arcy isn't teaching it here
10:42 — What Sarah said when it was over—and why the goal is freedom, not productivity
11:50 — The one question to ask this week instead of yelling at yourself

For the first time, the whole story of the last two years — told from the other side. In this episode:

The heroine's journey — the map: the hero comes home with the treasure; the heroine realizes she is the treasure, and she is the home
The launch that cracked it open: 21 yeses where 90 used to say yes — and the sentence that took over
December 2024: the call that was harder than the breakup — and why it turned out to be the first brave decision of the rebirth
THE VALUES AUDIT — five signs your season is a values change, not a collapse: (1) the wins land flat, (2) you're still funding your old self, (3) you envy the "wrong" people, (4) you keep changing the strategy but never question the goal, (5) "it's not working" has become a sentence instead of a fact
Tonight's ten-minute exercise: your calendar + your bank statement — still, or was
What ten days of silence in India returned — and what the new values are building now (new episodes every Tuesday and Friday, starting this week)

Timestamps :

00:00 — Cold open: the training and the December call
03:57 — The heroine's journey: the map
05:57 — The empire years
08:19 — Values have seasons
09:21 — The whisper: "It's not working"
10:42 — Trying to fix it
12:22 — December 2024: the call
14:35 — "The first brave decision of the rebirth"
15:36 — It wasn't a failure — it was a values change
18:32 — Old strategies, new values
19:47 — The Paris apartment and the cabin
22:08 — The Values Audit: #1, the wins land flat
22:48 — #2, funding your old self
23:51 — #3, envying the wrong people
24:31 — #4, new strategy, same goal
26:27 — #5, a sentence, not a fact
27:24 — Tonight: calendar and bank statement
27:48 — India, Bali, the silence
30:07 — The return
31:57 — Money and meaning
34:02 — If you're in this season
35:54 — "You are the treasure"

Most photographers aren't studying photography anymore — they're studying Instagram. In this solo episode, D'Arcy confesses to a decade of studying the wrong things — algorithms, funnels, hooks — and makes the case for what comes after the creator economy: the artist economy.

It starts with Gene Kelly, soaked to the skin and swinging off a lamppost, and the strange grief of watching real devotion.

Inside:

The sentence the whole episode is built on — you cannot consistently photograph what you refuse to cultivate within yourself.

How apprenticeship became consumption
The 4 S's (Story, Style, Structure, Sales) turned ninety degrees into an artistic framework
Creative Studies: the practice D'Arcy wants to name for the industry
Her own year of study — novels, old films, daily writing, ten rolls of film at a family session
Why The English Edit retreat exists, and Claire's story
One study to start this week.

Join D'Arcy's Sunday letter at darcybenincosa.com — where the stories she doesn't post get told, and where every future creative study is announced first.

Success came easy. Love didn't. If you've built the business, the body of work, the beautiful life — and love is still the one thing that won't land — this conversation was recorded for you.

D'Arcy sits down with self-love and relationship expert Sanaiyah Gurnamal — two-time TEDx speaker and host of Project Loving Myself (a Spotify Top 50 podcast with 1M+ downloads) — to name the three love blocks that keep high-achieving women single or stuck: the People Pleaser, the Commitment-Phobe, and the Runaway Bride.

In this episode: why women who fight for everything never learn to receive [22:46] · the 3 love blocks [25:58] · the airplane story that redefines meeting your own needs [15:45] · grieving a relationship while keeping the growth [43:30] · the journal prompt that reveals your block [52:13]

D'Arcy also tells the truth about turning 49, never marrying, and dropping the belief that being single means you love yourself wrong.

Connect with Sanaiyah: Project Loving Myself podcast · @sanaiyahgurnamal on Instagram + YouTube · The Love Blocks quiz

Full show notes: darcybenincosa.com/love-blocks-high-achieving-women

Get the Sunday letter: darcybenincosa.com

What if the biggest thing standing between you and the life you want isn't a lack of opportunity, talent, or strategy, but your ability to receive?

In this episode, I'm exploring a question that has fascinated me for years, both in my own life and in my work with clients: Why do we struggle to receive the very things we say we want most? Love, support, visibility, money, rest, belonging. So often, when those things finally arrive, something inside us pushes them away.

I share personal stories, powerful insights from my Receiving Map sessions, and lessons from neuroscience and consciousness work that have completely changed the way I think about healing. Instead of asking, "What's wrong with me?" I invite you to consider a gentler question: "What was this protecting me from?"

If you've ever found yourself sabotaging opportunities, downplaying compliments, overworking to prove your worth, or waiting for the other shoe to drop, this episode is for you.

In This Episode, You'll Learn: * Why your nervous system prioritizes safety over happiness, and how that can keep you stuck in familiar patterns * How old protective strategies can quietly block love, support, money, and opportunity from entering your life * The surprising reason self-rejection often has nothing to do with self-worth and everything to do with self-protection * Why trying to "fix" yourself can actually keep you trapped in shame and endless self-improvement loops * How to identify the unconscious beliefs that make receiving feel uncomfortable or unsafe * The connection between truth, expansion, and freedom, and how false stories create contraction and suffering * Why so many high-achieving women struggle to receive help, praise, rest, and abundance * A simple practice for noticing the stories that keep you feeling excluded, unworthy, or not enough * How integrity, self-acceptance, and surrender create more lasting transformation than perfectionism ever could * What it really means to let the good in and become available to your life exactly as it is

A Few Questions to Reflect On: * What is something you deeply want but struggle to receive? * When support, love, money, or opportunity arrives, what is your first instinct? * What belief might be standing between you and the thing you're asking for? * Does that belief make you feel more expanded or more contracted? * What would you do with your life if you trusted that you were already enough?

For a long time, I thought healing meant fixing every flaw, understanding every wound, and untangling every pattern. But lately, I've come to believe something much simpler: maybe the goal isn't fixing yourself at all. Maybe the goal is becoming available to life again.

Available to love. Available to joy. Available to support. Available to beauty. Available to the goodness that is already trying to reach you.

The truth is that most of us don't struggle to get what we want. We struggle to let it land. We stay braced for disappointment because it feels more familiar than trust. But what if today was the day you stopped waiting for the other shoe to drop?

What if you let yourself receive the compliment, the opportunity, the friendship, the abundance, the love?

You don't need to become someone else first. You don't need to be thinner, wealthier, more successful, or more healed.

You can let the good in right now.

Book a Receiving Map session here.

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

What does it actually look like to evolve from a successful photographer into a fully embodied luxury brand?

In this deeply personal episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm taking you behind the scenes with my client and dear friend, Kristen Marie, as she walks through a massive identity shift, creative rebirth, and business rebrand. Kristen has been photographing weddings and adventure elopements for over eight years, and after years of success in the elopement world, her body finally told her something had to change.

Together, we talk openly about burnout, redefining success, and the emotional process of growing out of an old identity that no longer fits. We also share what happened during Kristen's immersive coaching retreat at my cabin, where we explored her values, archetypes, subconscious beliefs, and the deeper emotional patterns underneath her business.

Then, in a rare behind-the-scenes look, we bring you directly into one of Kristen's real coaching calls along with her brand designer, Kass. You'll hear us brainstorm everything from visual identity and positioning to luxury storytelling, artistic authority, nature-inspired branding, and what it truly means to create a brand that resonates instead of imitates.

In this episode, we talk about: * The hidden burnout that can happen even inside a successful photography business * Why Kristen realized she could no longer continue as an overextended adventure elopement photographer * How identity work and nervous system healing play a huge role in luxury rebranding * The values and archetypes that shaped Kristen's new direction * Moving from "cute girl with a camera" into grounded artistic authority * The difference between copying luxury branding and creating true resonance * Building a brand inspired by nature, stillness, cinematic storytelling, and emotional depth * Why luxury positioning is often more about embodiment than skill level * The visual and emotional references influencing Kristen's rebrand, from Ralph Lauren campaigns to Terrence Malick films * How photographers can evolve their businesses without abandoning themselves in the process

One of the biggest things I hope you take away from this episode is that rebranding is never just about aesthetics. It's not just new fonts, prettier colors, or a more elevated website.

A true rebrand asks you to become honest about who you are now, who you've been, and who you're ready to become.

Watching Kristen move through this process with so much courage, self-awareness, and openness has been incredibly beautiful. She's not simply trying to book higher-paying weddings. She's learning how to trust herself, honor her energy, deepen her artistry, and create a business that actually supports the life she wants to live.

That's the kind of transformation that changes everything.

I cannot wait for you to hear this behind-the-scenes conversation and witness what it really looks like to build a brand from the inside out.

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on how I approach photographing a high-level, multi-day destination wedding—from the mindset I bring, to the creative direction, to the very real pressure behind the glamour.

After more than two decades in this industry, I don't just show up and "document" a wedding. I direct it. I shape it. I craft it into a visual story that feels cinematic, intentional, and deeply personal to the couple.

If you've ever wondered how to elevate your work from delivering a gallery to creating a story that stops people in their tracks, this episode is for you. I'm walking you through exactly how I prepare, how I think about storytelling, and how I balance structure with magic so I can consistently create images that feel both timeless and alive.

Key Takeaways * You're not just a photographer—you're a creative director. The industry is shifting away from simple documentation and toward storytelling. Your role is to guide, shape, and intentionally create moments, not just capture what happens. * A gallery is not the same as a story. A true wedding story has a narrative arc: a beginning, rising action, climax, and resolution. When your images build on each other emotionally and visually, the viewer experiences the wedding rather than just seeing it. * Multi-day weddings create deeper storytelling opportunities. Each event becomes its own "chapter" with a distinct visual world—color palette, mood, and energy—allowing for a richer, more dimensional final body of work. * The couple's language is your creative blueprint. How your clients describe their relationship reveals the emotional tone you should be capturing. Words like "ease," "safety," or "joy" directly inform your direction and approach. * Plan your "future portfolio" intentionally. Identify 10–15 images you don't yet have but wish you did. These become your creative targets so you're always evolving instead of repeating yourself. * Hero shots are non-negotiable. Think in terms of impactful, scroll-stopping images: + Venue/establishing shot + Fashion/editorial moment + Emotional peak + Elevated detail + Scale/negative space + Movement These are the images that define your work and get published.

Preparation creates space for magic. Wardrobe mapping, location scouting, timeline awareness, and shot planning don't limit creativity—they free you to be fully present when the unexpected, magical moments happen.
Details should feel specific, not generic. Ask yourself: Does this image tell me something unique about this couple? If it could belong to anyone's wedding, it's not strong enough yet.
Your energy matters just as much as your skill. Weddings are high-pressure environments. Your ability to regulate your energy, stay grounded, and lead confidently impacts the entire creative outcome.
Trends come and go, but story endures. You can incorporate trends, but your foundation should always be timeless storytelling that evokes emotion decades later.

At the end of the day, this work is about so much more than pretty images. It's about crafting something that holds meaning, emotion, and memory in a way that lasts.

Yes, there's beauty in the spontaneity of a wedding day. But the real magic happens when preparation meets intuition — when you've done the work to understand your couple, mapped out your vision, and then allow yourself to co-create something alive in the moment.

That's where your artistry lives.

And if you can step into that role fully — not just as someone who captures, but as someone who creates — you don't just deliver galleries. You build stories, elevate your brand, and open the door to a completely different level of work.

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

On this episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm taking a conversation I started on Instagram and going deeper into something I care deeply about: manifestation, intuition, and personal power.

Because here's the truth, I don't believe you when you say you don't know who you are or what you want.

I say that with love.

What I've found, both in my own life and in working with so many of you, is that "not knowing" is often a protection mechanism. It's a way we stay safe from the courage, change, and disruption that comes with actually claiming what we want.

So today, I'm breaking down what manifestation really is and what it is not, why your intuition isn't missing, and how subconscious patterns may be quietly running your life and your business.

Key Takeaways * Manifestation isn't broken. You're just stuck on the first floor Writing lists, vision boards, and affirmations aren't wrong. They are just the beginning. True co-creation requires stepping into your power as a sovereign adult, not staying in a childlike wish and hope dynamic. * Most of what you think you want isn't actually yours Your dream life may be shaped by culture, family, religion, or social media. Real manifestation begins when you ask: is this truly my desire, or something I've been taught to want? * You don't lack intuition. You're afraid to follow it Intuition often asks you to make hard choices, face uncertainty, or let go of what feels safe. Most people don't want clearer intuition. They want a version that guarantees comfort and certainty. * "I don't know what I want" is often a protective pattern When following your truth feels too costly, whether emotionally, financially, or socially, you learn to shut it down. Not knowing becomes a way to avoid the consequences of knowing. * Your power leaks in three key places Will I still belong if I change? Will I be safe financially, physically, or emotionally? Will I be judged, envied, or rejected if I grow? * Subconscious patterns shape what you believe you're allowed to have Whether it's tying love to achievement, suppressing your needs, or making yourself smaller to be accepted, these patterns directly impact what you try to manifest. * You can't out-strategize a subconscious block No marketing plan, sales funnel, or branding strategy can override beliefs like "I'm not allowed to be seen" or "I have to earn love." This is identity work, not just business strategy. * Receiving is often harder than giving Many of us are conditioned to overgive because it feels safe. Receiving love, support, money, and rest can feel uncomfortable or even threatening to the nervous system. * Transformation happens in the body, not just the mind Real change comes from identifying and rewriting subconscious agreements you made long ago. It is not just about thinking differently, but embodying something new. * You likely already know your path. You've just been choosing not to know The real question isn't what you want. It's whether you're willing to stop avoiding it and become the person who can hold it.

If there's one thing I want you to take with you, it's this:

You are not lost. You are not confused. You are not lacking clarity.

You already know.

Maybe not every detail, but the direction, the desire, the truth of who you are has been there for a long time.

The real work is having the courage to release the patterns that have been keeping you small.

Manifestation is not about asking for more. It is about becoming the version of you who can receive it.

Book your Receiving Map session here

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

This episode feels different, and that's because I am different.

This is the first episode I'm recording on the other side of a deep personal and professional transformation. I've let go of old identities, old offers, old stories, and I'm stepping into a new era of my life and business.

If you're at a crossroads right now, if you feel like you've outgrown something but are scared to let it go, this conversation is for you.

We're talking about identity shifts, entrepreneurship in the age of AI, and what it really looks like to honor your evolution instead of clinging to what used to work. Because the truth is, your business isn't meant to stay the same. You're not meant to stay the same.

And the real question I want you to sit with is this: What is the gift you bring to the world?

Key Takeaways * We get to live multiple lifetimes in one life. The old model of choosing one path and staying there forever is gone. Growth requires change, and you're allowed to evolve. * Outgrowing your business is not failure. It's alignment. If something no longer fits, it doesn't mean you did it wrong. It means you're ready for your next level. * Most "business problems" are actually identity problems. People-pleasing, fear of visibility, scarcity mindset. These don't just live in your mind. They show up in your offers, your pricing, and your results. * Letting go is part of becoming. Releasing old versions of yourself, outdated offers, and misaligned paths creates space for something far more powerful to emerge. * AI is changing everything, but it can't replace your essence. Information is now free and instant. What matters now is your taste, your discernment, your lived experience, and your ability to see what others can't. * Your gifts stay the same, even when your expression changes. For me, it's teaching, vision, and helping people see their own brilliance. The format may evolve, but the core gift remains. * Energy leaks keep you stuck in the past. When you release old pain, stories, and identities, you reclaim energy. That energy fuels clarity, creativity, and momentum. * You don't need permission to change, but I'll go first anyway. If you've been waiting for someone to show you what's on the other side of reinvention, this is me raising my hand.

Over the next few episodes, I'm going to take you behind the scenes of everything I'm building, what I'm creating, how I'm rebranding, and what this next era looks like. I'm sharing it all because I know so many of you are standing right where I was, knowing something needs to change but feeling afraid to take the leap.

So let me remind you. There is nothing wrong with you for outgrowing your life. That's the point.

If this episode resonated, I want to hear from you. DM me on Instagram and answer this question: What is your gift to the world?

And if you haven't yet, it would mean the world if you left a five-star review. It helps this message reach more people who need it.

I'm so grateful you're here. Truly. We're just getting started.

Links & Resources Join my newsletter hereDM me on Instagram

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

This episode is a deeply personal one.

I sat down with my dear friend Karen McMahon, and while she's known as a high-conflict divorce strategist, this conversation goes far beyond divorce. It's about personal power. It's about self-abandonment. It's about the moment you realize you've been editing yourself to keep the peace, and what it takes to finally come home to yourself.

Karen supported me through a major breakup, and what she helped me see changed everything: sometimes what we think is "chemistry" is actually a dysregulated nervous system. Sometimes what we call love is actually a trauma loop.

In this episode, we unpack the difference between healthy conflict and high-conflict dynamics, how we lose ourselves in relationships, and what it really looks like to reclaim your voice, your truth, and your life.

Key Takeaways * Not all conflict is unhealthy, but high conflict has clear signs. Lack of empathy, inability to take responsibility, "my way or the highway" dynamics, and revisionist history are major red flags. If you're constantly questioning your reality, pay attention. * What feels like chemistry can actually be trauma. That intense push-pull dynamic? The fighting followed by closeness? It's often a nervous system loop, not deep compatibility. * Self-abandonment is usually rooted in childhood survival. If you learned to manage a parent's emotions growing up, you may now overgive, people-please, or edit yourself in relationships without even realizing it. * A powerful lens: fear vs. desire. Every decision is either fear-based or desire-based. Fear leads to self-abandonment. Desire leads to alignment. * You are not responsible for managing someone else's emotions. You can have compassion for someone's wounds without taking them on as your job to fix. * Feelings are valid. Behavior is where boundaries matter. Anger is okay. Hurt is okay. But how someone behaves because of those emotions is what determines what you will or won't tolerate. * "Observe, don't absorb." You can witness someone else's emotional experience without taking it into your own body or identity. * Boundaries are about your behavior, not controlling theirs. It's not "make them change." It's "this is what I will or won't stay for." * The fable of the rope: stop doing someone else's work. When you're holding the rope for someone who refuses to pull themselves up, you're abandoning yourself… and keeping them stuck. * You are not responsible for other people's stories about you. Let them misunderstand you. Let them share their version. The people who truly know you won't be swayed. * Relationships aren't meant to make you happy. They're meant to grow you. The right relationship will challenge you, expand you, and invite you into deeper emotional maturity. * Green flags matter just as much as red ones. Look for communication, trust, respect, and the ability to be honest without fear.

If there's one thing I hope you take from this conversation, it's this:

You are allowed to choose yourself.

Not in a way that disconnects you from love, but in a way that deepens it. Real love doesn't require you to shrink, edit, or abandon who you are. It invites you to become more fully yourself.

And that takes courage.

It takes the kind of courage Karen talked about: Looking in the mirror, taking responsibility for your own healing, and choosing growth over comfort.

Because at the end of the day, the bravest thing you can do is come home to yourself.

Meet Karen Karen McMahon is a High Conflict Divorce Strategist, Certified Divorce Coach and Founder of Journey Beyond Divorce.

She began divorce coaching in 2010 after recognizing that the pain of her divorce led her on a transformational journey into a powerful and unexpected new life. Karen leads a national team of divorce coaches in supporting men and women around the world to become calm, clear and confident as they navigate divorce.

Karen is also the host of the acclaimed Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, and co-author of 'Stepping out of Chaos: Turning Pain to Possibility".

Connect with Karen Journey Beyond Divorce WebsiteFree Rapid Relief CallBoundary BootcampJBD PodcastKaren's Instagram

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

There comes a point in so many creative careers where what once felt exciting starts to feel heavy. The work may look successful from the outside, but internally, something feels off.

In this episode of Play It Brave, I'm joined by photographer Raphaëlle Granger for an honest conversation about what it really looks like to outgrow a brand, walk away from work that no longer fits, and rebuild from a deeper place of artistic truth.

Raphaëlle shares her journey from building a successful adventure elopement brand to realizing that the work she had carefully created no longer aligned with who she was. What followed wasn't just a rebrand, but a full creative reinvention rooted in intuition, artistry, emotion, and a desire to tell richer, more human stories.

We talk about the difference between building a brand that performs well and building one that actually feels like home. We get into curation, luxury branding, portfolio editing, client alignment, and the courage it takes to stop shooting what you think you should shoot in order to make space for the work your soul is actually drawn to create.

In this episode, we discuss: * Raphaëlle's transition from adventure elopements to multi-day luxury weddings * How burnout can be a sign that your brand no longer fits * Why rebranding is often more about alignment than aesthetics * How to know when it's time to let go of an old brand * What luxury clients are really looking for in a photographer and brand experience * How to curate your portfolio more ruthlessly and stop diluting your work * Why "less is more" is such an important principle in luxury branding * How Raphaëlle communicates her artistic process to clients before they book * Why studying luxury hospitality, design, and psychology can elevate your brand * The importance of trusting your artistic voice instead of following trends

What I loved about this conversation is how deeply Raphaëlle trusts her own eye now. She's not chasing what wedding photography is supposed to look like. She's building a brand that is specific, soulful, elevated, and unmistakably hers.

If you've been feeling the tension between what's working and what's actually right, I hope this episode gives you permission to pause, reassess, and listen more honestly to what your work is asking of you.

Meet Raphaëlle Raphaëlle Granger is an award-winning wedding photographer known for her refined documentary approach and her ability to capture the in-between moments that hold the most meaning. Named one of Rangefinder's 30 Rising Stars of Wedding Photography, her work spans Canada, Europe, and beyond, serving couples who value presence, artistry, and legacy. In addition to her photography, Raphaëlle is the co-founder of Les Annexes, an educational platform created to redefine support for wedding creatives through curation, communication, and visibility. Her mission is to guide artists not only in refining their craft but in building enduring legacies that resonate across markets and generations.

Connect with Raphaëlle & Resources Raphaëlle's WebsiteRaphaëlle's InstagramAcétate La Boite (Raphaëlle's brand designer)Unreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraThe Luxury Strategy by Jean-Noël Kapferer and Vincent Bastien

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

The Luxury Strategy: Break the Rules of Marketing to Build Luxury Brands

Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect

On today's episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm talking about something many people in the wedding industry are quietly feeling but not always naming out loud.

Photographers who used to book 15–20 weddings a year are sitting at just a handful. Retreats are being canceled. Educators who used to sell out instantly are extending deadlines. And behind the scenes, my DMs are filled with the same question: "Is it just me?"

So today we're talking about it honestly. I invited my friend Alicia Daw — an experienced luxury wedding photographer who has spent decades in this industry — to join me for a grounded conversation about what's actually happening and how we can respond to it thoughtfully instead of panicking.

I don't believe this is just a slow year. I think the industry is going through a correction — post-COVID demand leveling out, economic uncertainty, new buyer behavior, and major technological shifts like AI. The industry isn't ending, but it is changing. And the more clearly we see those changes, the better we can adapt.

Key Takeaways * This is likely a market correction, not just a slow season. Post-COVID demand, economic uncertainty, and industry saturation are all contributing to the shift. * Buyer behavior has changed. Couples compare far more options, hesitate longer, and often communicate less clearly than past clients. * Trust matters more than ever. Showing full galleries, simplifying pricing, and clearly communicating your process helps reduce buyer uncertainty. * Generic brands struggle in a comparison-heavy market. Clear positioning and personality help you stand out among hundreds of similar photographers. * The middle market feels the most pressure. Budget vendors will book, luxury vendors will continue booking, but the mid-range is often the most saturated. * Pricing can be both aspirational and strategic. Holding premium dates for high-end bookings while remaining flexible with short-notice opportunities can create stability. * Relationships still convert best. Planner relationships, venue partnerships, and referrals often outperform social media algorithms. * Multiple revenue streams reduce stress. Diversifying income can provide stability when inquiries fluctuate.

After more than 20 years in this industry, Alicia and I have both learned that the wedding world moves in cycles. The key isn't ignoring change, it's responding to it.

That means strengthening your positioning, building trust with your clients, nurturing real relationships in the industry, and being willing to adjust your strategy as the market evolves.

Challenges like this don't mean the industry is over. They simply mean we're being invited to grow, refine, and approach our businesses with more intention than ever.

If you want deeper support in navigating this shift, Alicia shares about her Strategy Retreat in this episode, where she helps wedding professionals align their business strategy with the life they actually want to build.

And as always, thank you for being here and for continuing to play it brave in your work and your business.

Meet Alicia Alicia Daw is an international, luxury wedding photographer who has spent nearly three decades of her life globetrotting to 45 countries - and counting - while developing an effortless style for capturing exquisite and emotionally charged weddings and events. Featured in prestigious publications like Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, Wezoree, Carats & Cake, and Wedding Chicks, Alicia knows how to attract chic, jet-setting couples and deliver a luxury experience again and again. Within 13 months of starting her photography business, Alicia went from making $10,000 a year as a missionary to over $100,000, consistently booking 5 figure weddings. Less weddings = more money = more life.

She is an expert at helping other wedding and portrait industry professionals grow their businesses into something they're proud of by making sense of all the nitty-gritty details so they can pursue life outside of business. She is passionate about finding joy and adventure in the everyday, ordinary moments in her life with the people she loves most.

Connect with Alicia Alicia's WebsiteAlicia's InstagramThe Strategy Retreat

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

On this episode of Play It Brave, we're diving into one of the biggest conversations happening in photography right now: AI. The excitement. The skepticism. The "Is this going to replace us?" energy. All of it.

I brought on Noella Andres from Imagen AI to talk about what AI in editing actually is (and what it isn't). Noella has spent over 20 years supporting photographers in finding more freedom in their workflows, and her move into Imagen fits perfectly with that mission.

Together, we unpack how AI can support your artistry instead of threaten it, how it integrates into Lightroom, how it learns your style, and how to use it consciously — without losing your creative voice.

Key Takeaways * The real question isn't "Will AI replace photographers?", it's "How can we use AI consciously?" * Burnout in photography often comes from hours behind the screen, not from shooting itself. * When repetitive tasks are automated, creative energy expands. * AI can function like a virtual assistant, handling the grunt work while you stay in artistic control. * The danger isn't AI — it's losing your unique voice by relying on formulas (in editing, branding, or marketing). * As the world becomes more automated, genuine human connection and client experience become even more valuable. * Originality requires intention. Photographers must resist copying trends and instead refine their own artistic identity. * Social media fatigue is real. Intentional automations (like email marketing funnels) can create sustainability without constant online presence. * Used wisely, AI can actually help you fall back in love with photography by giving you your time and inspiration back.

AI isn't the enemy. Burnout is. Blending in is. Giving away your creative voice is.

When you let AI handle the repeatable tasks — culling, base edits, workflow — you get your time back for what actually matters: your clients, your craft, and creating because you want to.

If you're curious, you can try Imagen through my ambassador link (with 1500 free edits included). And if you have questions, DM me. I want you editing faster, loving your images more, and feeling inspired again.

Meet Noella Noella Andres has been in the photography game for over 20 years — Chasing love stories, and eventually finding her real passion: helping other photographers grow wildly successful businesses of their own. These days, she's all about marketing, brand partnerships, and business coaching — guiding photographers as they step into their next big thing, whether that's launching a course, building passive income, or leveling up their visibility.

She's part strategy nerd, part hype girl, and fully invested in helping creatives find freedom in their business (and have a little fun doing it).

Connect with Noella + Imagen AI Get your 1500 free edits here Noella's WebsiteNoella's Instagram

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

There are episodes that feel like a permission slip… and this one is exactly that.

If you've ever thought, "I'm a wedding photographer," or "I'm a family photographer," or you've let a label quietly box you in—this conversation is for you. I'm bringing back my dear friend Elizabeth Messina to the podcast, and every time she's here, I'm reminded why her work has moved people for decades: she doesn't just take photos—she sees women.

We talk about what it actually looks like to evolve across genres without losing your signature. How to stay curious even after years in the industry. And why the real "secret" behind her iconic imagery isn't a preset or a pose—it's connection, presence, and trust.

Key Takeaways * Trust your voice—your point of view matters, even when other styles inspire you. * Stay curious forever; learning keeps your work (and you) alive. * Sensitivity and empathy aren't "too much"—they're a creative advantage behind the camera. Your brand can be cohesive across genres when your eye is the through-line. * Photograph women through seasons of life, not rigid categories like "weddings" or "maternity." Maternity work is powerful because it holds joy, vulnerability, and identity change at once. * There are infinite ways to photograph pregnancy—go beyond the standard belly pose. * Build trust through connection first; the image comes second. * Offer possibility with "What if…?" instead of forcing a concept onto a client. * Make the process the win—real connection matters even when you don't get the booking. Know your gear and workflow so the "technical math" doesn't interrupt your creativity. * Stay engaged with your own work (even if you outsource) so you keep evolving as an artist. Trust is built in your communication long before the shoot—read what they asked and respond like a human. * A sustainable career often comes from evolving alongside your clients over time.

This episode is a love letter to the idea that you don't have to be "one thing" to be taken seriously. You can evolve. You can explore. You can shoot weddings and maternity and dark moody work and sun-drenched dreamy work—and still be unmistakably you.

Elizabeth's work is proof that your artistry gets stronger the more you stay connected: to your camera, to your subjects, and to your own creative truth.

And if you're feeling that tug to expand what you shoot—take this as your sign: you're allowed to grow.

Meet Elizabeth Elizabeth Messina is a world renowned, award winning, celebrity photographer. She is a New York Times best selling author & a passionate teacher.. Elizabeth was named "one of the most influential photographers of our decade" by PDN.

Elizabeth has been capturing evocative photographs of women since she picked up a camera at the tender age of 12. Her images are a reflection of her heart. Elizabeth Messina is a visionary, her images tell stories of longing, solitude & the tangible beauty of the human experience.

Although Elizabeth's photography takes her all over the world, her home is in Southern California, where she lives with her 3 children & 3 dogs. She continues to be a seeker of beautiful light, strong coffee & meaningful connections.

Connect with Elizabeth Elizabeth's Photography WebsiteElizabeth's Arte of Maternity courseThe Arte DeptThe Art Society

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

On today's episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm sitting down with one of my favorite creative power couples in the photography industry, Gary Evans and Kim Evans. We talk about what it really looks like to rebrand with intention, build a cohesive identity, and grow multiple businesses together without losing alignment—or your relationship—in the process.

This conversation weaves together the emotional and practical sides of entrepreneurship: branding beyond logos, finding your voice in the education space, building an email list that actually converts, and creating offers like retreats that feel meaningful and expansive. We also dive into collaboration, working as a couple, and why asking for help can completely change the trajectory of your business.

What we talk about in this episode: * Why branding is foundational, not optional, when building a sustainable business * How to create a cohesive identity that actually reflects who you are * The role visual identity plays in client trust and perception * Finding your unique voice in a crowded education space * Using email lists and freebies as powerful (and aligned) growth tools * Why retreats can be such a transformative offering for photographers * The magic that happens when collaboration is rooted in alignment * Working with your partner's strengths instead of against them * Prioritizing family and relationships while growing a business * Why reaching out for help can fast-track your growth in the best way

This episode is a beautiful reminder that success doesn't have to be chaotic or lonely—and that when your brand truly reflects who you are, it can open doors you never even knew to knock on.

Meet Gary & Kim

Here's our story - we met, despite living in separate countries, by a complete twist of fate that led Gary to help a friend at the same wedding show where Kim had a booth. Gary scoped her out and said she's "right up my street" and 18 months later, after multiple flights, over 50,000 miles, Gary sold his photography company, house, and just about everything else and moved from the UK to Ontario, Canada.

We had to completely rebuild his business in Canada, sold our decorating and floral design business, rejigged the photography, built Pop Up Weddings, a wedding subscription box, I Do Box....

When I say we're serious business builders, we're not lying.

With every business move, we analyze + plan + move forward. We release what is not profitable and focus on the projects that are making bank.

That's our story - we are serial creators. And you get two for the price of one. We're a dynamic team, each with individual strengths that we can use to supercharge your business. Gary is a technical whiz, anything photography we got you. Kim is a marketing, systems and logistics queen. She'll figure out how to make it work, attack any issues like a pitbull and cheer you on while you reach your biggest goals.

Connect with Gary & Kim

Gary & Kim's websiteGary & Kim's InstagramThe off-camera flash freebie courseThe Tulum retreat + mood boardsGary's photography websiteLovely Weddings

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

This week on the Play It Brave podcast, I'm doing something a little different — I'm bringing you behind the scenes for a real coaching session with one of my favorite photographers (and one of my trusted second shooters), Jasmine Ortiz.

This episode is for every photographer who has ever thought:

"I know my work is good… so why do I get weird and wobbly the second it's time to talk about pricing?"

Because that moment — where you're ready to raise your rates, step into a higher tier of client, and be paid like the artist you actually are — requires more than updating a number on a proposal. It requires an identity shift.

In this conversation, Jasmine shares what's been happening as she raises her prices: how her old sales call script worked at a lower price point, but suddenly feels stiff, robotic, and way too logistics-heavy for the clients she wants to book now. And from there, I walk her through the exact framework I teach inside my one-to-one coaching and masterminds — the same structure that's helped photographers go from booking $3–6K weddings to booking $8K, $10K, $20K, even $30K.

Because at the luxury and intro-luxury level, clients aren't choosing you because you're "easygoing" and "go with the flow." They're choosing you because you feel like a leader. A director. An artist with presence, taste, and a clear process.

And the best part? You can learn that. You can practice that. You can embody that.

In this episode, we talk about:

Why so many photographers unintentionally dilute their authority by trying to be the couple's "bestie"
How luxury clients want warmth, yes — but they also want clarity, confidence, and precision
The difference between "participating" in the call vs. leading the call
How to ask better questions than "So what's your vision?" Why selling at a higher level means selling an experience and a feeling, not hours and deliverables
How to keep the first call exciting (and not turn it into a timeline-planning meeting)
What to say instead of "We can totally do whatever you want" (because… no. Not if you're positioning luxury)

The 7 shifts I gave Jasmine (you can steal these too):

Before we recorded, Jasmine sent me a transcript of a real sales call — and once I read it, I found seven immediate tweaks that would completely change her conversions at a higher price point.

Here they are:

Stop being overly casual. Warm is good. Too familiar is not. Luxury requires a calm, grounded presence.
Don't let the couple dictate the call. They don't want to run the show — they want to hire someone who can.
Step into the identity of the director. You're not auditioning to be chosen. You're guiding them through a curated experience.
Remove all "wishy-washy" language. "Whatever you want!" is not elegance. Recommendations are.
Mirror their exact words back to them. This is huge. If you don't repeat their emotional buying criteria, they won't feel seen.
Hold the space as an expert guide. Don't match chaos. Don't match overwhelm. You hold the calm.
Stay professional while still being warm. Approachable, yes. Chatty friend energy, no.

If you're in the season of raising your rates, hear me when I say: you don't just raise your prices — you raise your presence.

You shift your language. You shift your leadership. You shift your identity.

Because luxury clients aren't buying your packages.

They're buying you.

Welcome to the final episode of 2025 — the year of the snake, the year of shedding skins that no longer fit. If this year felt like a raw unraveling, a call to deeper truth, a refusal from the Universe to let you live inside half-truths or "good enough," this episode is for you.

As has become tradition, I invited one of my wisest, most grounded friends — Casey — to interview me about my year. She's someone who's seen my behind-the-scenes, the unglamorous parts, the sacred parts, the parts that never make it to Instagram. And because this was a year of immense change, grief, healing, and rebirth, I wanted this conversation to be real.

We talk about everything: The breakup. The depression. The healing journey in Bali and India. The spiritual reconnection I didn't see coming. The beauty that still insisted on blooming. The nervous system work that saved my life. Talking to trees. (Yes… literally.) And the small, holy ways I remembered myself again.

This episode is tender, unpolished, and human — and I'm sharing it because if you are walking through something dark, I want you to know you aren't alone, and your story doesn't end there.

So wherever you are — whether you're on a mountaintop celebrating or inching your way out of darkness — you're not behind. You're not broken. You're simply learning the wisdom that your soul came here to learn.

Beauty is already blooming for you. Let it in.

Thank you for walking with me through this year. Thank you for your prayers, your messages, your presence. I can't wait for what we'll create together in 2026 — the year of movement, momentum, freedom, and joy.

Stay brave. Stay tender. Stay open to beauty. Much love, D'Arcy

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

In today's episode, I'm talking with my friend Dawn Weisberg of Tularosa Flowers about what it actually takes to create and book large-scale luxury weddings — not just from a "pretty" standpoint, but from a strategic, energetic, and logistical one.

Dawn and I both came to the wedding industry later in life with long creative careers behind us — mine in directing and acting, hers in costume design for film and television. We get into how those backgrounds shaped the way we approach weddings as world-building: cinematic, intentional, immersive, and deeply rooted in storytelling.

We talk about:

How Dawn went from starting florals at 45 to designing six-figure weddings in under a decade
Why she treats every wedding like a film set: thinking in scenes, movement, and guest experience The behind-the-scenes systems and logistics that make large-scale productions possible
How her viral "Malibu Barbie meets Marie Antoinette" pink wedding came to life — and what made it blow up online The creative process of pulling inspiration from runway shows, architecture, art, travel, and above all, the couple themselves
Why color is having a moment in the luxury world and how to use it in a way that still feels timeless and elevated
The mindset shifts required to feel safe holding and delivering on big budgets
The role publications & Pinterest have played in her growth (and how she handles rejection like a pro)
How styled shoots and editorials catapulted both of our careers into higher price points
What florists actually need from photographers on a wedding day to grow their own businesses

We also explore the emotional and energetic side of this work — what it's like to be genuinely obsessed with your craft, how to avoid burnout by building a business that actually feeds you, and why weddings are still the modern-day fairy tale for both couples and creatives.

P.S. I'm hosting a Tuscany Real Wedding Workshop this spring — a real wedding with a real couple and 30 real guests, photographed and designed over multiple days. You'll walk away with:

A full multi-day destination wedding story (engagement, welcome party, bridal editorial, wedding day, farewell event)
A pre-trip mentorship to refine your brand, portfolio gaps, and shot list
A post-trip call where we turn your gallery into a 90-day luxury marketing plan

If your gut is saying "this is my next level," send me a DM and I'll send you the full proposal. We have very limited spots.

Meet Dawn

Dawn Weisberg is the owner and flower mastermind behind Tularosa Flowers, a luxury wedding design company in Southern California in the San Diego area. Voted Best Florist San Diego by California Wedding Magazine for both 2025 and 2024, she is dedicated to providing the highest level of design and service to her clients.

Dawn's breadth of expertise enables her to offer a visionary edge to her work with a unique perspective in the wedding industry. With a Master's Degree in Theatrical Design from New York University's acclaimed Tisch School of the Arts, her classical training was augmented studying fine art in Italy, where she apprenticed in a Costume and Mask Studio in Venice. After a successful career for 20 years in film and television as a costume designer, Tularosa Flowers's owner chose to pursue her passion for flowers. Dawn combines her cinematic design background with her love of nature to create one-of-a-kind immersive experiences for her clients. The Tularosa style is an effortless maximalism combining Old World European style with California vibrance.

Tularosa Flowers has been featured in all of the top wedding publications, including Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, Once Wed, The Knot, Brides, Ruffled, Green Wedding Shoes, California Wedding Day, Inspired by This, 100 Layer Cake, June Bug, Wedding Chicks, Hey Wedding Lady, Smashing the Glass, and the Gay Wedding Guide. Tularosa has also partnered with luxury brands including Hermes, and David Austin Wedding Roses. As one of the nation's top and premier floral designers, Dawn has appeared as a wedding trend expert on CBS and FOX, as well as multiple wedding industry podcasts, and was the Mayesh 2024 Wedding Florist Design Star.

Connect with Dawn

tularosaflowers.comDawn's InstagramDawn's TikTok

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

On today's episode of Play It Brave, I'm bringing you behind the scenes for Part Two of my coaching call with photographer Staci Addison.

In Part One, we focused on nervous system safety, trauma, and getting her out of chronic fight-or-flight so she could actually show up for her business.

In this Part Two, we shift into strategy – creating a marketing plan that feels simple, sustainable, and true to who she is, instead of a giant pile of "shoulds" that leave her frozen and overwhelmed.

I walk Staci through how to narrow her focus to just a few key marketing channels, how to build systems that support consistency (even if she doesn't feel like a "systems person"), and how to use her natural gifts as a caring, creative, fun-loving photographer to become a true client magnet.

In this episode, we discuss: * How to narrow your marketing down to 2–3 simple, sustainable channels you can actually stick with. * A step-by-step venue networking strategy that turns tours into blogs, Pinterest content, and real bookings. * Why Pinterest + blogging are a power duo for local markets like Savannah (and how to use them intentionally). * How to stop fearing "wrong clients" and instead attract aligned couples through clear process and storytelling. * Ways to collect specific, story-driven testimonials that actually sell your experience. * How to use ChatGPT as your marketing assistant to map out a month of content that still feels like you.

We wrap the call by replacing overwhelm with simplicity and grounding into the belief: "I am a client magnet. My caring, creativity, and courage draw aligned clients to me."

Resources Mentioned:

Italy Workshop (Sicily + Real Wedding Experience) Join me for an immersive creative pilgrimage in Sicily or a once-in-a-lifetime real wedding weekend experience in Italy. Both workshops include coaching, portfolio curation, and hands-on shooting with stunning venues, world-class florals, and intimate group guidance designed to elevate your brand https://connectwed.net/workshop-sicily/
Free Training — 25 Marketing Tips My most-loved free resource packed with 25 high-impact, doable marketing ideas you can start using immediately https://darcybenincosa.com/25-marketing-tips
Want a practical, step-by-step marketing strategy? Skip ahead to 21:12.

Today I'm sharing something different: a real coaching call with my client, Staci Addison. Instead of jumping straight into marketing, we start where sustainable growth actually begins—helping your nervous system feel safe after grief, burnout, and a long, hard season. Most creatives don't get stuck because they lack strategy; they get stuck because fear, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and old money stories keep their bodies from feeling safe enough to take action. When we rebuild safety and self-trust, the execution part finally clicks.

On this call, I guide Staci to separate the "negative mind" from her true voice, create immediate safety in her body with simple somatic tools, and set loving boundaries (including with family) so her energy stops leaking and returns to her art and business. We also turn a nightly habit into a ritual of presence, upgrade the language she uses with herself, and practice micro-mothering—small daily acts that refill her capacity. Next week I'll share her full marketing plan, but this episode is the foundation that makes strategy work.

Takeaways:

It's not about fixing yourself; it's about building safety so action becomes possible.
Name and externalize the "negative pattern," then let your heart answer back (two-column journaling, two minutes).
Use simple somatics—Havening touch, a low "Voo" tone, orienting to the room, and a daily nature dose—to calm your system fast. Boundaries are love in action; they turn people-pleasing into choice and conserve energy for your business.
Transform escapes into rituals of presence (music, candle, intention): I am coming home to myself.
Upgrade your language: not "I'm not good enough," but "A negative pattern is saying ___; my truth is ___." Micro-mother yourself daily with one small act of care to rebuild self-trust.

If this resonates and you want private support, I'm finalizing 2025 coaching pricing and bundles through November 30, 2025. Book a free Clarity Call via this link. There is a softer way back—and I'll meet you there.

Today I'm joined by my brilliant friend, fashion-and-wedding photographer Sandra Åberg, for a real talk we've both been having off-mic for years: does being "published" (Vogue, Harper's, Martha) actually mean you've arrived—or is it another industry illusion that keeps creatives chasing validation? We swap origin stories (Milan fashion sets, Sports Illustrated mayhem, and stumbling into weddings), talk integrity lines, and share the unseen mechanics behind advertorials, vendor lists, and "top" roundups—what's paid, what's earned, and what actually moves the needle in a creative business. We also dig into the soul of the work: why connection with your couples matters more than a logo, and how to protect your creative magic in a content-driven world.

If you've ever wondered whether you should pay to play, whether that "Vogue cover" on Instagram was an ad, or how to define success on your own terms—this one's for you.

In this episode, we cover: * The myth of arrival: Why "as seen in…" is social proof—not a finish line. * Paid vs. earned press: Advertorials, vendor lists, and "Top Photographer" roundups—how they really work and what they're good for. * Integrity lines: Finding your yes/no around paying for placements, ads, and algorithms. * From fashion to weddings: Sandra's Milan years, mentorship, and the moment that shifted her values. * When the dream feels empty: Sandra's Vogue Japan cover—and the unexpected loneliness on the other side. * What books/awards/followers really signal: The strategy behind best-seller lists and big platforms. * Connection over clout: Why knowing (and liking!) your couples changes the images—and the experience. * Working with planners: How to keep creative chemistry when gatekeepers run the process. Creator vs. content creator: Guardrails for protecting your artistry in a metrics world. Defining success: Visibility, vulnerability, and being seen for who you are—not what you've published.

Part two lands soon: "Be a Creator, Not Just a Content Creator"—plus details on our intimate Italy experience designed to rekindle your artistry (and yes, we'll talk smart, values-aligned pathways to publication).

Question for you: Where's your line between integrity and appearances—and what does "playing it brave" look like in your visibility strategy right now?

Meet Sandra

Sandra Åberg is an internationally acclaimed photographer known for her ethereal style, poetic storytelling, and deeply emotional imagery. With over 15 years of experience, she has photographed for Vogue, captured celebrity weddings, and built a reputation as one of Europe's leading names in luxury destination wedding photography. Founder of both Atelier Åberg and her namesake brand, Sandra is not only a visual artist but also an educator and mentor, inspiring photographers and creatives worldwide to dream big and build a life they love.

Connect with Sandra

www.sandraaberg.comwww.atelieraberg.comSandra's Instagram

If you’ve ever paused on your next chapter because you think you need to be “more ready” or “more perfect,” this one’s for you. My dear friend, multi-hyphenate creative and mentor Jessica Eileen Drogosz joins me to dismantle the myth that leaders must have it all together before they lead. From building associate teams and separating brands to launching a heart-led coaching offer, Jessica shares the real (and often messy) middle—where clarity, courage, and connection are forged. So many of you are standing on the edge of your next season—coaching, teaching, creating a course, or simply showing up more boldly online. If perfectionism has been your speed bump, consider this your green light. Progress—not flawlessness—is what builds mastery, self-trust, and momentum.

In this episode, we cover:

The myth of perfection and why showing your humanity actually builds more trust.
Following the “whisper”—how to recognize the nudge that it’s time for your next thing.
Making space for multipassionate work: running successful photo brands and stepping into mentorship.
Leadership in real life: humility, owning mistakes, and building systems with your team. Identity first, strategy second: creating from the future you (website, offers, and voice) before you “feel ready.”
Micro-leaps & progress tracking: simple daily practices that compound into big outcomes.
Social media resistance: sharing vulnerably in a new container without overthinking it.
Coaching with depth: why inner story work belongs before scaling strategies.

You don’t need a perfect plan to lead—you need your imperfect, present self and one brave step. If you’re ready to move from dreaming to doing, go follow Jessica and book a clarity call. And if you want coaching around identity, mindset, and strategy for your next season, my door’s open too. Let’s build the future you—starting today.

Meet Jessica

Jessica Eileen Drogosz is a multi-hyphenate creative with over 14 years of experience turning vision into reality through artistry, strategy, and soul. As the founder of For Just a Moment Weddings and Our Days Photo and Film, she has traveled the world documenting love, legacy, and human connection—blending refined editorial style with honest, documentary storytelling.

Beyond photography her work has always been about more: helping others step fully into their story, create with truth, and embrace the beauty of becoming. Through her Undone & Becoming coaching, Jessica supports women and creative entrepreneurs in moving from uncertainty to clarity, from dreaming to doing. She offers strategic guidance, grounded mentorship, and bold encouragement to help others take their next leap—with heart, purpose, and integrity.

Connect with Jessica Jessica’s InstagramJessica’s Substackwww.jessicaeileen.com www.ourdaysphotoandfilm.com www.forjustamoment.com

I almost never say yes to cold pitches. But one late night, I opened an email from Meghan Ely of OFD Consulting—and instead of deleting it, I hit reply. It was researched, personal, and actually useful. That same energy comes through in this conversation, where Meghan shares how she’s helped creatives land features in The New York Times, Brides, Martha Stewart, People, and more.

This episode will shift how you think about PR—not as something reserved for celebrities or giant corporations, but as a powerful tool for any creative entrepreneur ready to be seen.

In this episode, we cover:

The real difference between PR and marketing—and why Instagram isn’t PR
The anatomy of a great wedding submission (permissions, vendor credits, and photo curation that tells a story)
How to jump on cultural moments (like Taylor & Travis) with smart, timely commentary
The truth about pay-to-play, advertising, and how to promote ethically Why rejection is part of the process and how to separate your self-worth from submissions
Client success stories where press built authority, trust, and long-term bookings How OFD Collective helps creatives get quoted, featured, and speaking opportunities

Meghan is smart, warm, and refreshingly candid. If you’ve ever wondered how to get published—or if you’re tired of trying to DIY submissions—you’ll love this conversation.

Meet Meghan

OFD Consulting owner, Meghan Ely, combines in-the-trenches event experience with a love of wedding PR to empower her clients to take their businesses to new heights. Her team’s publicity efforts are regularly honored by the Public Relations Society of America, and more recently, Eventex named her one of the most influential Wedding Professionals in the Industry. A long-time industry speaker and writer, she has regularly earned clients' press in such outlets as the New York Times, Brides, Martha Stewart Weddings, People, Bridal Guide, Architectural Digest and Style Me Pretty, among many others. Meghan is a past national president WIPA and is a member of the Allied Council for the National Society of Black Wedding and Event Professionals.

Connect with Meghan

Meghan’s WebsiteOFD Collective Membership

Have you ever built something that looked incredible from the outside…but didn’t actually feel good to live in? I’ve been there, and so have today’s guests, Brad & Jen.

Brad & Jen are a husband-and-wife photography duo with over a decade of experience behind the camera and in business. When I first came across their words on Instagram, I was struck by how different their perspective was from the usual “grow faster, do more” business advice. Their work and their message are both rooted in something deeper: artistry with intention.

In this conversation, we dive into what it really takes to create a sustainable business—one that doesn’t just fill your calendar or pad your Instagram feed, but one that supports your life. We talk about the identity shifts that come with growth, the way hustle can be both healthy and destructive, and the pivotal moments (including their famous “yellow chair moment”) that forced them to make big changes in how they ran their business.

Some of the things we explore together:

Why success often comes at the cost of friendships, health, or community—and how to course correct.
The difference between “busy hustle” and “focused hustle,” and how to find your rhythm without burning out.
How pricing plays a huge role in creating space for rest, freedom, and sustainability.
The seasonal cycles every business goes through, and how to recognize what season you’re in.
The mindset shifts that allow you to show up as both an artist and a CEO—without sacrificing either.
What it looks like to redefine success around presence, community, and intention instead of numbers and accolades.

This is a heartfelt, real conversation about business, creativity, and life. If you’ve ever felt stuck between striving for more and craving something sustainable, you’ll find so much encouragement here.

I hope you walk away from this episode remembering: your business is meant to serve you, not the other way around.

Meet Brad & Jen:

Brad & Jen are a husband-and-wife photography team and creative business coaches who believe your business should make room for the life you actually want. Known for their heartfelt and genuine imagery and deeply strategic minds, they’ve spent over a decade capturing love stories - everywhere from backyard weddings to vineyards and destination celebrations around the world. Along the way, they built a business that values people over pressure, connection over comparison, and art over algorithms. Now, they teach other photographers how to do the same through practical education, mindset shifts, and a belief that your work can be both meaningful and profitable. Whether they’re behind the camera or mentoring creatives, Brad & Jen are all in on helping people do work they’re proud of, without losing themselves in the process.

Connect with Brad & Jen:

Photography: @bradandjen
Education: @bradandjeneducation

Learn more about their mastermind at learn.bradandjen.com

On today’s episode of Play It Brave, I’m joined by my dear friend, the incredible creative and leader, Carrie Moe.

Carrie is someone I deeply admire—not only because of her talent (she’s styled for brands like Ritz-Carlton, Fujifilm, and Berta Bridal, and been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot, and Brides), but because of the way she approaches her work with confidence, creativity, and so much integrity.

We dive into: ✨ Why collaboration is more powerful than competition in the creative industry. ✨ The myth of “falling behind” and how to release the pressure to keep up. ✨ What it means to value your time and treat yourself as a luxury brand. ✨ The importance of community, networking, and in-person connection for growing your career. ✨ How saying no to misaligned opportunities can open the door to bigger, more aligned “yeses.”

We also talk about the Hybrid Collective Conference, which is coming to Charleston in 2026. Hybrid has been one of my favorite places to teach, learn, and connect since 2017, and Carrie shares so beautifully about why it continues to be such a transformative space for photographers and creatives.

This conversation is a reminder that your artistry is yours alone. The way you see, create, and bring beauty into the world cannot be replicated—and that’s exactly what makes it valuable.

About the Hybrid Collective

Dreamers, Innovators, Goal Getters...Hybrid was established in 2017 by four industry leaders who saw the need for education and connections within the film photography space. Hybrid continues as a women owned company with a team who seeks to change the world by empowering, encouraging, and connecting with YOU. While we have had our career highlights (Featured in Martha Stewart Print, Harpers Bazaar, traveled the globe for clients) nothing thrills our hearts like seeing a gathering of people come together and leave forever changed.

From our ad-on masterclasses, breakout sessions, to our diverse speaker line-up, we cover all of the areas of priority in your business. We dive deep into the knowledge details of how to up-level, covering the details needed to grow a legacy brand and our teachers offer insider tips on every challenge you might face in your business. For photographers across the globe, we have become an inclusive and immersive experience that leaves our attendees' hearts forever changed.

Find all the information on Hybrid Collective here.Follow Hybrid Collective on Instagram here.

P.S. Use code "DB26SC" when you register for Hybrid Collective 2026 and you’ll receive $200 off your admission ticket plus a $425 credit toward my masterclasses at the conference. That’s $625 of value waiting for you — but I only have 10 codes, so when they’re gone, they’re gone!

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Marion Roach Smith—author, memoir coach, and one of the most no-nonsense, truth-telling voices in the writing world.

We talked all about memoir writing—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s one of the most powerful tools for making sense of your life and sharing your story with the world. Marion shares how her background in journalism shaped her writing process, and how she developed what she calls the “memoir algorithm”—a simple but profound method to help you find the universal themes in your personal experiences.

We also got into the role AI is starting to play in the writing world, what it actually takes to get published, and why she believes everyone has stories worth telling. If you’ve ever wanted to write a book—or simply learn how to express yourself more clearly and courageously—this conversation will light a fire under you.

In This Episode, We Talk About:

Why writing with intent is everything
How memoir is different from autobiography—and why it matters
The “memoir algorithm” Marion uses to help writers craft strong, universal stories
Why you don’t need to wait for closure to write
Her take on AI’s role in the writing process
Tips for getting published in today’s landscape
The radical act of sharing your humanity on the page

Ready to write your story? Marion’s work has helped thousands of people turn their lived experiences into powerful, published work—and after this conversation, I know you’ll be inspired to do the same.

Meet Marion Marion Roach Smith is the author of four books, including The Memoir Project, A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life (Grand Central Publishing). A former staffer at The New York Times, she has been a commentator on NPR’s All Things Considered and a talk show host on Sirius Satellite Radio. She currently runs a writing lab called The Memoir Project and teaches memoir worldwide at marionroach.com.

Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

Today on the Play It Brave podcast, I’m joined by the ever-inspiring Natasha Sewell—a photographer, educator, and expert in creating heartfelt client experiences. Natasha started her photography business at 41, and if you’ve ever thought you were “too late” to pivot or start something new, you need to hear this story.

We talk about making bold moves at any age—whether you’re transitioning from studio to lifestyle sessions, from family photography to branding, or just feeling creatively stuck and needing a reset. Natasha shares how she built a successful newborn photography business, got bored, and decided to pivot toward something that lit her up: documenting motherhood in a way that feels honest, emotional, and artful.

We also go deep on client experience—the real kind. Not just prep guides and gifts (though those are great!), but the full journey: from the first click on your website to long after the gallery is delivered. Natasha breaks down how she uses automated emails, product videos, intentional communication, and smart follow-up to create a seamless experience that serves her clients—and sells more albums without pressure.

This episode is part pep talk, part business masterclass, and packed with takeaways for photographers who want to create more meaning (and money) in their work.

In this episode, we talk about:

Starting a business at 41 and why age is actually a gift
Making intentional pivots when your creativity is on life support
Personal projects that inspire, including black & white film and motion blur
How lifestyle sessions unlocked new levels of joy (and growth) in Natasha’s work
Why client experience is more than prep guides and presents
Building “What’s Next” pages and video libraries to educate clients with ease
The real reason your clients don’t order albums—and how to change that
The power of automation to create consistency and free up your brain
The value of community and not doing this work alone
A reminder that your photos (and your life) don’t have to be perfect to be powerful

Whether you’re new to photography or 10 years in, this conversation will spark something in you. It’s a love letter to bravery, creativity, and honoring where you are—while still dreaming bigger.

Meet Natasha: Natasha started her photography business in 2013 at 41—after years of raising kids and a past life as a teacher. In 2019, she scrapped posed studio sessions for in-home newborn and family photography, chasing meaning over perfection. It pushed her creatively—and she’s never looked back.

Three years ago, she added education into the mix. Now, she mentors photographers who are tired of guessing their way through business and want straight answers, honest feedback, and a more thoughtful way to grow.

Connect with Natasha:Website InstagramPhotography Prompts for Happy KidsAI Email Prompts

This week, the brilliant Dr. Chelsea Shields and I continue the conversation about something that’s at the heart of every powerful brand and every transformational leader: authenticity.

We go deep into what it means to show up fully as yourself in your brand, your business, and your life. From emotional intelligence to the way you use your voice and body to communicate, this conversation is a masterclass in being seen and felt as the real you.

Chelsea and I talk about how hard it can be—especially for women—to strike the balance between being authentic and being perceived as credible. We break down the subtle cues that create trust (or mistrust), like body language, tone of voice, and what Chelsea calls “safety signals.” We also explore the role of vulnerability in leadership, and why being polished and perfect often isn’t what people actually connect with.

If you’ve ever felt like you need to be a certain version of yourself to be “taken seriously” or you’ve struggled to feel truly seen in your business, this episode is for you. We wrap things up with actionable tools you can use right now to show up more authentically, communicate with impact, and build a brand that doesn’t just look good—it feels right.

In this episode, we talk about:

Why authenticity isn’t about being the same in every room
The unique pressure women face to perform "authenticity"
How to use your voice and body to communicate clearly and powerfully
Why emotional intelligence is non-negotiable for leadership
What it really means to create safety and trust
How honesty and consistency build a brand people believe in
The difference between an authentic brand and an inauthentic one (hint: people feel it)

Connect with Dr. Chelsea Shields

https://www.brandthropologieagency.com

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Chelsea Shields—anthropologist, speaker trainer, and communication expert—to dive deep into the heart of what makes a brand truly resonate in today’s world: authenticity.

We unpack why authenticity is more than a buzzword—it’s your most valuable currency as a personal brand. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or thought leader, this conversation will help you understand how to build a brand that’s rooted in truth, psychology, and presence.

We explore the evolution of personal brands as the new CEOs and reveal how your brand isn’t about you—it’s about how you make your audience feel. From decoding style signals and nonverbal communication to embracing body language, fashion choices, and voice modulation, Dr. Chelsea offers tangible tips for showing up confidently and powerfully—on stage, online, or in everyday conversations.

Chelsea and I also discuss how to honor multiple facets of your identity within your brand (yes, you can be the queen and the rebel), and how being fully present is one of the fastest ways to build trust and connection.

Whether you're refining your website, stepping into public speaking, or simply showing up more boldly in life, this episode will leave you inspired to brand from the inside out—with intention, confidence, and soul.

Connect with Dr. Chelsea Shields

https://www.brandthropologieagency.com/

Ever wondered what it really takes to become a second shooter that lead photographers rave about—or how to find one you can trust with your name, brand, and reputation?

In this candid and wisdom-packed episode, I sit down with award-winning photographer and my own second shooter, Jasmine Ortiz, to dive deep into the art, etiquette, and energy of second shooting in the luxury wedding world.

With over 200 weddings under her belt, Jasmine brings a decade’s worth of insight into what it means to support lead photographers with professionalism, humility, and heart. From high-pressure moments and awkward vendor run-ins to gear checklists and social media boundaries, we don’t hold back in this conversation. We swap stories, laugh through horror moments (please don’t pitch yourself to the planner during cocktail hour), and unpack the subtle dynamics that can make or break a working relationship on the wedding day.

Whether you’re a new photographer hoping to break into the wedding industry, a seasoned second looking to elevate your presence, or a lead ready to build your dream team, this episode is full of real talk and practical gold.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

What NOT to do as a second shooter (like drinking on the job)
How to match a lead’s style and energy so you complement—not compete
Why gear prep, clear communication, and a calm presence matter more than you think
How to navigate photographing grooms and groomsmen as a female second shooter
What to avoid when posting online—and why it’s essential to wait and ask for permission first
How to energetically show up in service, not self-promotion
Why building trust, humility, and team spirit will get you hired again and again

Jasmine also shares her favorite behind-the-scenes moment as a second shooter, how she handles fast-moving situations with grace, and why her second shooter checklist has become her wedding-day go-to.

And of course, Jasmine and I reflect on our own working relationship—from Target snack runs to shared values—and how much fun it can be when the lead/second synergy is just right.

This is more than just a how-to episode. It’s a heartfelt look into the power of being a solid, grounded, and generous support on a couple’s most important day.

Meet Jasmine Jasmine Ortiz is an internationally-renowned wedding photographer based in California. She made a name for herself masterfully documenting irreplaceable moments and polished celebrations. She was named one of the "Top 30 Wedding Photographers in the USA" in 2023 and has photographed well over 200 weddings in her decade-long career.

→ Get Jasmine’s Second Shooter Checklist hereJasmine’s WebsiteJasmine’s Instagram

P.S. Want me to edit your images with the new DB Signature Presets & Editing Suite? Send me up to 5 RAW photos here.

What if midlife wasn’t a crisis—but a chrysalis?

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, D’Arcy sits down with spiritual leader and transformational guide Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell to reframe the way we view this pivotal life stage. Together, they unpack the idea of midlife as a sacred period of unraveling, reclaiming, and radiating—a time of deep transformation that prepares us to emerge more fully expressed, sovereign, and whole.

From the rise of the Queen archetype to the cultural stories we’ve inherited about aging, this episode explores how truth-telling, community, and feminine leadership can help us navigate the unknown with courage and grace. If you're feeling the stirrings of change or longing to embrace your next chapter with intention, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

Midlife is not a breakdown—it’s a metamorphosis.
The Queen archetype offers a fresh and empowering lens on aging and leadership.
Cultural narratives about aging shape how we see ourselves—and we can rewrite them.
Truth-telling is a liberating force for healing and connection.
Feminine leadership is intuitive, inclusive, and deeply needed in today’s world.
The chrysalis journey unfolds in stages: unraveling, reclaiming, and radiating.
Community support is essential during times of transition.
Embracing sensuality and creativity is key to holistic well-being.
Awareness of societal conditioning can help us reclaim our power and purpose.
The unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s an invitation to grow.

Whether you're in your thirties, forties, fifties, or beyond, this conversation is a gentle reminder: the unraveling is part of the becoming. And you’re not alone.

Meet Devaa:

For Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell, transformation isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life. She’s dedicated to helping people reconnect with their deepest selves, unlock their leadership gifts, and step into their full potential.

As the Co-Founder of The Shift Network, a multiple 7-figure educational platform, Devaa has helped bring life-changing programs to over 3.2 million students worldwide. She’s also built an online summit that served 130,000 women across 160 countries—all while growing her company from the ground up.

Through her private practice, Devaa supports her clients with Soul and Strategy Coaching to work on both the “inner” work of feminine leadership as well as the “outer” work of visionary strategy and implementation. She also leads women through a comprehensive Midlife Chrysalis process to gracefully navigate the many changes that happen in midlife. Finally, Devaa offers psychedelic integration as well as microdose coaching to enhance creativity and focus, while mitigating the impacts of anxiety and depression.

Devaa earned both her BA and MA from Stanford University. She received her Doctorate in Ministry from Wisdom University (now known as Ubiquity University) and is also an ordained interfaith minister. She was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for her ecological anthropology work with indigenous groups in the Brazilian Amazon. Devaa also completed her Psilocybin Guides certification through Bodhi Academy in Oregon.

Earlier in her career, Devaa was a Management Consultant at the Boston Consulting Group where she consulted with Fortune 500 Companies. She later worked as the founding Executive Director of the Full Circle Fund, a thriving venture philanthropy group, followed by a senior Director role at the Institute of Noetic Sciences. She is also a member of the prestigious Evolutionary Leaders group.

In her spare time, Devaa is a musician, and her songs fuse East and West with danceable grooves. Her most recent album, Rebirth, reached #1 on Amazon in the New Age Category.

Connect with Devaa:

Devaa’s course – Awaken Your Archetypal Feminine Codes: A Guided Initiation Into Your Sacred Power and Leadership – will go live on June 6, 2025.

Visit Devaa’s Website to learn more about her offerings and sign up for her Dynamic Manifestation Video Series, or follow along on Instagram.

In this episode, D’Arcy and her sister April dive deep into what it means to reclaim love on your own terms—especially when you’ve spent years minimizing your needs, hiding your pain, or staying small to feel safe. Together, they explore how worthiness, visibility, and nervous system regulation play a role in opening yourself back up to being loved, seen, and supported.

They reflect on how generational and cultural conditioning can disconnect us from our bodies and our truth—and how honoring your story, even the messy parts, is a radical act of love in itself. Through personal shares and honest conversation, they unpack the internal barriers that keep us from receiving love and what it looks like to rewrite that story in real time.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

Feeling unseen and unmet, and the grief of naming it
The protective patterns that help us survive but later keep us stuck
Learning to stay in your body when old wounds resurface
The tenderness of letting yourself be known, even when it’s scary
How regulation and self-compassion create space for deeper connection
The process of reclaiming love—not from others, but for yourself

This is a conversation for anyone longing to come home to themselves, to feel held without performing, and to remember that love doesn’t have to be earned. You are already worthy.

Most luxury planners don’t work with just anyone—and if you’ve ever tried to get on their radar, you know how tough it can feel.

In this episode, I pull back the curtain on what actually builds trust with high-end planners, how to navigate the “Catch-22” of not having luxury work yet, and how to start making meaningful connections with planners who are aligned with where you are now.

Plus, I share:

A real-life email that got me a rave review from a luxury planner
My exact framework for building planner relationships post-wedding
A mindset shift that will change the way you network for good

Whether you’re just starting your journey into high-end weddings or you’ve been stuck in the middle market for too long, this episode will help you get in the room—the right way.

Apply for the mastermind here.

In this soul-nourishing episode, D’Arcy welcomes back her sister Brooke Benincosa to share the sacred story of how they co-steward Nightingale Cabin—a healing sanctuary tucked into the Utah mountains—and the vision they’re bringing to life through retreats, land rituals, and community gatherings.

Together, they explore what it means to live in deep connection with nature, rhythm, and each other. Brooke shares how she was called to create healing spaces rooted in reverence for the land, and how her journey with nursing, healing, and intuitive wisdom shaped the work she now offers.

They dive into the importance of rites of passage, conscious transitions, and returning to simplicity in a world of increasing noise and complexity. You’ll hear stories of sheep-shearing, singing around fires, making bone broth, bartering with neighbors, and cultivating beauty as a way of life.

Brooke introduces two powerful retreats that you can join her for:

Retreat Dates & Offerings:

May 30–June 1, 2025: Purification for Clarity Weekend

A transformative weekend at the Nightingale Cabin, where nature meets inner peace. Immerse yourself in a sacred space designed for reflection, healing, and reconnection.
Experience the power of sweat lodges, qigong, breathwork, fire ceremonies, silence, community, and reconnection to the land.
Learn more about the experience here

Sep 5–11, 2025: Lady of the Lake Priestess Initiation Retreat

This week-long immersion will take place at a fairytale location in Wales, UK, where we’ll dive into the magic of weaving and remembering.
Immerse yourself in nature's beauty as we explore ancient crafts, connect with our creativity, and rediscover the stories that shape us.
Learn more about the experience here

Whether you’re seeking community, healing, or simply a deeper connection to Mother Earth, this episode invites you to explore what it means to reclaim your humanity in a rapidly evolving world.

As Brooke says:

“We haven’t even scratched the surface of our full human potential. The land remembers. The body remembers. We just have to slow down and listen.”

Topics We Cover:

The sacred origins of Nightingale Cabin
Building community rituals rooted in earth wisdom
Rites of passage, grief work, and feminine embodiment
Why simplicity is often the most powerful form of healing
The vision for a self-sustaining sanctuary: orchard, barter, and creative play
How unplugging from technology can unlock true clarity
Why healing doesn’t have to be heavy—it can be joyful, beautiful, and full of song

Interested in joining or hosting at Nightingale Cabin? Brooke and D’Arcy are beginning to open the cabin to others who want to host retreats, workshops, or soulful gatherings. A website is coming soon to explore rentals, offerings, and available dates.

To Connect or Apply: DM @darcybenincosa or @brooke.benincosa on Instagram (And yes—"weirdos" are welcome! The playful, creative, heart-led kind.)

Meet Brooke:Brooke Benincosa is a registered nurse turned modern day medicine woman. She is an energy worker, reiki master, trauma healer, and wellness embodiment coach. Brooke provides a unique perspective with her certifications in both Eastern and Western healing modalities. Her mission is to guide people on a path of long-term healing and wellness.

In this episode, we sit down with Maria Ortiz—a talented photographer who has transformed her senior portrait business by infusing it with deep emotional connection, thoughtful communication, and bold pricing strategies.

Maria shares how she brings excitement and warmth into every stage of her client process, from the first email to the session day. She discusses how her carefully crafted questionnaire helps her get to know each senior on a deeper level, asking questions like “If you could give a TED Talk, what would it be about?” or “What would your perfect Sunday look like?” These intentional prompts not only prepare her for the session but also allow her clients to feel seen and celebrated before the camera even clicks.

We also dive into one of the most pivotal moments in Maria’s journey: how she worked through internal blocks to confidently raise her prices—eventually 10x-ing her rates for senior sessions and then doubling them again. Maria opens up about the mindset shifts, investments in education, and personal development work that allowed her to own her value and create transformational experiences worth premium pricing.

D'Arcy and Maria discuss the concept of your "internal money thermostat," how subconscious beliefs about money can hold us back, and the importance of expanding your capacity to receive. Whether you’re a photographer or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is filled with wisdom on fostering connection, courageously raising your rates, and leading a heart-centered business.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

How to use pre-session questionnaires to build genuine connection with clients
The kinds of questions Maria asks to go beyond surface-level rapport
Why emotional presence is essential in photography (and all client-based work)
The internal shifts required to raise your prices with confidence
Maria’s step-by-step process of going from $250 to premium luxury pricing
Why doing personal money mindset work is essential to business growth

MEET MARIA:

Maria is a high school senior photographer in the Baltimore, MD area, highly sought-after for the luxury experience she provides for her clients. Originally from Ecuador, Maria considers herself a citizen of the world, with traveling as her foremost passion. Her experiences living in various countries have allowed her to meet people from diverse backgrounds, enhancing her ability to create deep, emotional and meaningful relationships. Maria believes that these connections are essential to both her photography and her coaching, as they form the foundation for true and impactful interactions.

With over 23 years of photography experience and a specialization in senior portraits for the past six years, Maria has found her true passion in this genre. She is dedicated to crafting empowering and confidence-boosting experiences for each of her young clients, building trust and making them feel seen and valued. In recent years, Maria has expanded her influence by publishing articles, speaking at conferences and coaching fellow senior photographers on streamlining their businesses, creating a strong portfolio and presence they are proud of, believing in them themselves and the experience they provide as photographers to ultimately help increase their income. Maria's true passion lies in empowering other photographers to believe in their capabilities and to value their time and money.

DOWNLOAD MARIA’S FREE GUIDE:

Scale Your $300 Shoots to $3000 Experiences

CONNECT WITH MARIA:

Maria’s Instagram

Maria’s Website

In this intimate and heart-opening episode, D’Arcy sits down with her partner, Tyler, for their first-ever podcast conversation together. What unfolds is a raw, funny, and deeply honest look into the real work of love—what it takes to build a conscious relationship, navigate hard seasons, and grow as individuals and a couple.

They share the story of their romance, from meeting at a retreat in 2023 to reconnecting after a breakup in 2024, and everything in between. From mismatched attachment styles to breakdowns in communication, D’Arcy and Tyler don’t shy away from the truth: relationships can be hard, but they can also be healing.

Expect big laughs, real talk, and some wildly endearing moments (like Tyler referring to himself as D’Arcy’s "Renaissance bad boy"). They talk about what brought them back together after months apart, the work they did individually, and what keeps them choosing each other daily. You’ll hear about D’Arcy’s solo journey to India and Bali, Tyler’s growth in therapy, and the practices that are helping them build a more secure, connected partnership.

They also touch on:

What it’s really like when an anxious and avoidant fall in love
Learning presence and reworking their relationship with technology
Creating safety in love after trauma
The importance of repair and radical honesty
Dream destinations, future goals, and a few delightfully weird Valentine’s Day plans

If you’ve ever questioned whether love can evolve, this episode is for you.

Whether you’re single, partnered, healing from heartbreak, or learning to love again—this conversation will remind you that conscious relationships are possible, and they start with you.

I didn’t just go to India. I checked myself into a hospital for 21 days. I let go of my business, my routine, my Western way of life—and I surrendered to a deep, ancient healing process. I was bathed by women half my size, scrubbed down with herbs, and forced to slow down in a way I never had before.

This is what happened.

Why I Did This * I reached a breaking point. Numb toes, neuropathy, panic attacks, extreme stress, feeling trapped in my body—it all led me to this decision. * My body was screaming at me. And I knew I needed something more than another diet, another break, another surface-level fix. * I discovered Pancha Karma, an ancient Ayurvedic cleanse for detoxing not just the body, but the mind and soul. * I decided to go all in. I closed down my business, leaving everything behind.

Arrival at Vaidyagrama: Entering Another World * This was a hospital—not a spa. There were basic rooms, strict routines, and repetitive rituals. * Getting naked was a daily ritual. The towels were tiny, and loincloths were used for coverage. For the first time, I was truly seen. * The doctors and staff infused ancient wisdom with medicine. Prayer and spiritual connection were a part of every treatment. * Everything was done with deliberate slowness. There was no soap, no shampoo, no rushing—just pure, purposeful care for the body.

The Treatments: Surrendering to the Process * Red juice treatment. I lay on a wooden slab, while three tiny Indian women poured warm red juice over my body again and again, staining my skin crimson. * Oil massages & herbal scrubs. I was massaged daily by women who saw bodies in a way I never had—practical, neutral, without judgment. * Ghee treatment. I was fed butter and broth for 21 days. As this happened, it was not only my body that became cleansed, but also my mind in its relationship to food. * Everything here was intentional. Every drop of oil, every movement, every prayer. It was about more than the body—it was about resetting something deep inside me.

My Body Was No Longer an Enemy * Western culture teaches us to battle our bodies. Ayurveda teaches us to nurture, honor, and support them. * For the first time in my life, I wasn’t trying to change my body. I was caring for it. * I released old narratives. My body isn’t something to fix—it’s something to listen to. * What shifted for me: + I stopped seeing my size as "wrong." + I understood slowness as healing instead of laziness. + I learned to receive care instead of always giving.

What I Took Home with Me * The real healing started after I left. * In the West, we treat exhaustion like a badge of honor. In India, I learned that rest is sacred. * I made changes in my daily life—diet, movement, self-talk, and most importantly, prioritizing inner peace over external productivity.

Closing Thought Would I do it again? Absolutely. This wasn’t just a cleanse. It was a complete reset—of my body, my mind, and the way I relate to myself. And I think more of us need that.

What happens when you sit in complete silence for 10 days—no talking, no technology, no eye contact, no distractions? In this episode, I take you inside my Vipassana meditation retreat, where I spent over 100 hours in silence and came face-to-face with my mind in ways I never expected. From nearly having a panic attack on Day 4, to watching a cobra almost kill my neighbor, to a tiny fly teaching me a profound lesson on suffering—this experience rewired my brain, changed how I see technology, and redefined what it means to be human in the modern world.

What Is Vipassana Meditation? Vipassana, which means “insight” or “clear-seeing,” is one of the oldest meditation techniques in the world. Rooted in the teachings of Gautama Buddha, it’s designed to cultivate awareness, equanimity, and liberation from suffering.

During the retreat, I followed the traditional Vipassana rules, including:

Noble Silence – No speaking, no eye contact, no gestures.
No technology – No phones, books, or journaling.
No intoxicants or distractions – Just meditation, walking, and sitting.
Complete surrender to the schedule – Wake-up bells at 4 AM, over 10 hours of meditation per day.

But what I thought would be a peaceful experience turned into one of the hardest things I’ve ever done.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with yourself in ways you never imagined. Would you ever try Vipassana? Listen now and decide for yourself.

What if your work was so distinct that people could recognize it instantly—without even seeing your name attached to it? That’s the power of a signature style. In today’s episode, I’m diving deep into what it really means to develop an artistic voice that sets you apart in the photography industry.

If you’ve ever felt like your work blends in or that you’re creating for others instead of yourself, this episode is your wake-up call. Your signature style isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about confidence, perspective, and the energy you bring to your work.

🚨 Ready to refine your signature style? Join my free masterclass! 🚨 👉 Find Your Signature Style Masterclass – [Register Here]

In this episode of Play It Brave, I sit down with Dr. Chelsea Shields, an expert in luxury branding and strategy for billion-dollar businesses. We dive deep into how prestige brands set themselves apart in the market and explore the essential elements that make a brand luxurious. Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, this episode will show you how to apply luxury branding principles to your business—no matter your size or industry.

Book a Free Brand Clarity Call with Cassie of Gatherie Creative Ready to elevate your brand to the next level? Cassie is offering free brand clarity calls to help you craft a brand that signals luxury and resonates with your ideal clients. Email gatheriecreative@gmail.com to book your free call now!

Explore Cassie’s Portfolio Take a look at how Cassie transforms brands into high-end powerhouses. Explore her portfolio to get inspiration for your own luxury brand.

Cassie's Portfolio (mobile) | Cassie's Portfolio (desktop)

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In today’s episode of Play It Brave, we’re exploring the often-overlooked aspects of branding that go beyond logos and fonts. Dr. Chelsea Shields, a 4x TED speaker and expert in placebo effects and human behavior, joins me to share her powerful insights into building trust with your audience. We dive into how body language, communication style, and relatability can transform how your audience perceives you and your brand.

We discuss how to use your body and voice as brand assets, why perfection can actually hurt your relationships with potential clients, and why building trust means being intentional in the way you present yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Whether you’re working on your personal brand, business, or just looking to connect with your audience on a deeper level, this episode has the tools and tips you need to build trust and visibility the right way.

Cassie's Portfolio (mobile)

Cassie's Portfolio (desktop)

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

Branding is the foundation of any successful business, but it’s often misunderstood or overlooked. Whether you’re running a small creative business or scaling to seven figures, these five essential truths will help you craft a brand that connects, converts, and thrives. This episode with branding expert, Dr. Chelsea Shields dives into actionable insights you can use today.

View Cassie's Portfolio (Mobile)

View Cassie's Portfolio (Desktop)

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Play It Brave, I sit down with my coaching client Hayley Richardson, the powerhouse behind Intimately You, a multi six-figure boudoir photography studio in Sydney, Australia. Known for her high-end aesthetic and all-female team, Hayley’s mission is to empower women to embrace their bodies and confidence through the art of boudoir photography.

Today, I’m coaching Hayley on how to create a freebie sales funnel that feels authentic, powerful, and—most importantly—converts! Funnels aren’t just for business-to-business (B2B); they’re a game-changer for business-to-client (B2C) creatives like Hayley. We’ll unpack the 10 essential steps to building a funnel, brainstorm ideas for a “Love Your Selfie” challenge, and discuss how to nurture leads into dream clients.

Whether you’re new to funnels or ready to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with actionable tips and fresh perspectives to help you level up your client experience and marketing game.

🎧 Tune in to get inspired and start creating your own client-converting funnel!

SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Hilary Billings, a viral content creator and CEO of Attentioneers, shares her expertise in capturing and keeping attention online. She discusses her journey in understanding the intentional nature of viral videos and the struggle to create successful content. Hilary highlights the key components of successful viral videos and the importance of understanding different platforms and their audiences. She also emphasizes the constant changes in algorithms and the need for quality content. Hilary introduces the viral video blueprint, which includes a three-part guide to creating engaging videos. The guide focuses on grabbing attention, sparking emotion, and providing value to the audience. The conversation explores the key elements of creating viral content, including the power of emotion, the importance of creating a curiosity gap, attention-grabbing hooks, video length and engagement, editing and equipment, and the viral video blueprint. The guest, Hilary, provides valuable insights and practical tips for content creators to improve their content and increase their chances of going viral. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychology of attention and leveraging it to create engaging and shareable content. Hilary also offers a free resource, the viral video blueprint, to help content creators generate ideas and improve their content creation process. Hit play! Meet Hilary: Hilary Billings is the Co-Founder and CEO of Attentioneers- where she helps entrepreneurs and personal brands drive revenue by creating content their audiences care about. Having grown her own following from 0-400k followers in 40 days, and garnered over a billion organic views in under 12 months, Hilary understands the psychology of capturing and keeping attention online. Her agency not only works with internationally recognized brands and celebrity influencers, but also collaborates directly with TikTok as members of their Advisory Board. A certified personal brand strategist, Hilary has worked with a gamut of high-performing entrepreneurs, including billionaires, Victoria’s Secret models, and New York Times best-selling authors. A former Miss Nevada, journalist, and on-camera host, Hilary has also worked with traditional media outlets including USA Today, E! News, and Extra!. Considered an authority on personal branding and short-form video strategy, Hilary’s insights have been featured in Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, and Forbes. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

As we build our businesses, we're often focused on the here and now. But have you considered the profound impact your ancestral lineage can have on your journey?

By tapping into the wisdom and resilience of our ancestors, we unlock new avenues for growth, innovation, and authentic connection. The path to building a luxury enterprise is not always linear. Sometimes, it requires us to look back in order to move forward.

READ THE FULL SHOW NOTES HERE.

Mary Hyatt, an expert in embodiment and alignment, provided valuable insights this week on the Play It Brave podcast. True alignment is not about doing more, but about living authentically and honoring your true self, rather than wearing masks to seek love and avoid pain. Mary shared her own journey of recognizing the masks she wore, and how misalignment manifests through symptoms like anxiety, procrastination, and self-sabotage. It is so important to listen to your body's wisdom, using somatic tools like breathwork, movement, and emotional release to come back into alignment. Mary also shared powerful examples demonstrating how tuning into the body's messages and making small, aligned changes can lead to significant life improvements.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES.

D'Arcy Benincosa shares her insights on the "game of money" and how to create a thriving cash flow in her latest episode of the Play It Brave podcast. As a coach who has helped countless clients transform their relationship with money, D'Arcy's is here to guide you on your journey to abundance and financial empowerment.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

There’s still time to join D’Arcy’s Profitable Portfolio course and five-week mastermind, starting October 9. Think of how your business can grow in just five weeks, with personalized coaching and portfolio review from D’Arcy herself, live accountability and community support from an incredible group of like-minded photographers, proven strategies for booking higher-paying clients, confidence and clarity about your pricing and positioning, and comprehensive resources and implementation support for everything you learn. Don’t delay - we start October 9!

Join now: https://darcybenincosa.com/profitable-portfolio-bonuses

—-

In this episode of the Play It Brave podcast, D’Arcy Benincosa dives deep into the often overlooked but critically important topic of business energetics. She explains that business strategy and execution are just one piece of the puzzle - the energy and mindset you bring to your business is equally, if not more, impactful.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode offers invaluable wisdom on harnessing the power of business energetics. Don't miss it!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL EPISODE SHOW NOTES

There is a limited time to jump into D’Arcy’s Profitable Portfolio course and five-week mastermind. Think of how your business can grow in just five weeks, with personalized coaching and portfolio review from D’Arcy herself, live accountability and community support from an incredible group of like-minded photographers, proven strategies for booking higher-paying clients, confidence and clarity about your pricing and positioning, and comprehensive resources and implementation support for everything you learn.

Join Now: https://darcybenincosa.com/profitable-portfolio-bonuses

As an experienced photo editor and presets creator, Martina De Santis brings a wealth of expertise back to the Play It Brave Podcast this week, returning by popular demand. Tune in for Martina's expertise about embracing collaboration, mastering editing skills, and leveraging knowledge to take your photography business to new heights.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES.

In the latest episode of the Play It Brave Podcast, D'Arcy Benincosa is joined by two of her photography mastermind students, Monica and Cora, to discuss their transformative experiences in her Profitable Portfolio course and five-week mastermind.

Monica, who was feeling burned out shooting 30 weddings a year, found the confidence and clarity she needed to attract her dream clients and book her highest package to date. Through D'Arcy's personalized coaching and portfolio feedback, as well as the supportive community, Monica was able to hone her brand, refine her portfolio, and deliver an exceptional client experience that led to this career-changing booking. Cora shares how the Mastermind's portfolio review process and 30-day social media challenge helped her step into a bolder, more consistent online presence, allowing her to showcase her warm, classic, and romantic photography style to attract her ideal clients. If you're a photographer ready to uplevel your business, take it from Monica and Cora and join D'Arcy's Profitable Portfolio course and five-week mastermind experience. With D'Arcy's expert guidance and the power of a collaborative community, you too can achieve the booking and pricing success you've been dreaming of.

Enroll today: https://darcybenincosa.com/profitable-portfolio-bonuses

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

This week, Play It Brave welcomes back Jen Olmstead, the co-founder and lead designer of Tonic Site Shop. Jen shares her insights on the importance of having a well-designed website, especially for creative entrepreneurs and photographers. She discusses the common mistakes people make with their websites, the benefits of taking control of your online presence, and the keys to creating a luxury website experience.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

The Wedding Website Workshop I'm hosting a FREE free online workshop where you can learn how to infuse desire into every element of your website—transforming your images, copy, and testimonials into powerful tools that captivate your ideal clients and make them excited to work with you.

Save Your Spot

In this episode, D'Arcy discusses the power of storytelling in engaging audiences and driving action. She helps course creators, coaches, consultants, and wedding professionals become better storytellers to sell their services and products. She shares her own story and emphasizes the importance of origin stories and the hero's journey in effective storytelling. D'Arcy also addresses dealing with haters and the significance of staying true to your purpose. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

This week on Play It Brave, our guest (and D’Arcy’s actual lawyer) Paige Hulse shares valuable insights on crafting airtight contracts, including tips for creating payment plans, copyright assignments, and non-disparagement clauses. She also introduces her brand new cutting-edge AI-powered tool (seriously, this is going to blow your mind!) called the Foundry Contract Builder, part of the Creative Law Shop, which helps business owners like you create customized, legally-binding contracts, line-by-line based on your unique business needs.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, guest Sandra Chuma shares her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. After achieving outward indicators of success based on a lifestyle of ‘chasing’ and burnout, Sandra began to explore her values, emotions, and vision for her life. She learned to view her emotions as signposts. With this new sense of direction, she began to clarify her values, which, in turn, helped her identify her true priorities. Now, Sandra is on a mission to help other women experience rest, and to rediscover their inner power and purpose. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and defining a personal vision for a fulfilling life. Best of all, Sandra shares the concept of the Worthy Signature Experience and her upcoming luxury retreat for women. If you want to participate in this unforgettable curated experience, be sure to check out https://worthysignatureexperience.com/

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy is live with Wedvibes and coaches luxury wedding photographers, florists, and planners on how to create a truly luxury brand. She covers desire marketing, curating your brand, and showing brand proof before she dives into a live coaching session. This episode is a gold mine for anyone in the luxury wedding market. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy discusses how to raise your frequency and vibration to attract wealth and abundance in all areas of your life. She emphasizes the importance of self-love, conscious beliefs, and positive thoughts in raising your vibration. D'Arcy provides practical tips and strategies for increasing your frequency, such as practicing kindness, spending time in nature, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. She also highlights the power of music, imagination, and generosity in raising your vibration. Overall, the episode explores the connection between frequency, consciousness, and creating the life you desire. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Jodi of J. Anne Photography shares her journey of transitioning from wedding photography to running a profitable studio. She discusses the reasons behind her decision to stop doing weddings and the challenges she faced in setting up her studio. Jodi also talks about the importance of implementing in-person sales (IPS) and the pricing structure she uses to triple her income. She emphasizes the significance of printing photos and creating heirloom pieces for clients, highlighting the emotional value and legacy they hold. In this conversation, Jodi Hendricks shares her insights on the power of framed art and the importance of participating in art. She discusses the value of being a dream photographer and the impact of framing on the overall presentation of photographs. Jodi also emphasizes the importance of maintaining exclusivity and the psychology behind it. She explores the hybrid model of in-person sales and the potential for selling albums and framing. Additionally, Jodi highlights the significance of showing your face in marketing and the value of reputation. She concludes by discussing the importance of branding sessions and the need to separate work and personal life. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Hilary Billings, a viral content creator and CEO of Attentioneers, shares her expertise in capturing and keeping attention online. She discusses her journey in understanding the intentional nature of viral videos and the struggle to create successful content. Hilary highlights the key components of successful viral videos and the importance of understanding different platforms and their audiences. She also emphasizes the constant changes in algorithms and the need for quality content. Hilary introduces the viral video blueprint, which includes a three-part guide to creating engaging videos. The guide focuses on grabbing attention, sparking emotion, and providing value to the audience. The conversation explores the key elements of creating viral content, including the power of emotion, the importance of creating a curiosity gap, attention-grabbing hooks, video length and engagement, editing and equipment, and the viral video blueprint. The guest, Hilary, provides valuable insights and practical tips for content creators to improve their content and increase their chances of going viral. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychology of attention and leveraging it to create engaging and shareable content. Hilary also offers a free resource, the viral video blueprint, to help content creators generate ideas and improve their content creation process. Hit play! Meet Hilary: Hilary Billings is the Co-Founder and CEO of Attentioneers- where she helps entrepreneurs and personal brands drive revenue by creating content their audiences care about. Having grown her own following from 0-400k followers in 40 days, and garnered over a billion organic views in under 12 months, Hilary understands the psychology of capturing and keeping attention online. Her agency not only works with internationally recognized brands and celebrity influencers, but also collaborates directly with TikTok as members of their Advisory Board. A certified personal brand strategist, Hilary has worked with a gamut of high-performing entrepreneurs, including billionaires, Victoria’s Secret models, and New York Times best-selling authors. A former Miss Nevada, journalist, and on-camera host, Hilary has also worked with traditional media outlets including USA Today, E! News, and Extra!. Considered an authority on personal branding and short-form video strategy, Hilary’s insights have been featured in Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, and Forbes. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode of the Play It Brave Podcast, D'Arcy Benincosa and her guest Sophie Epton discuss the topic of living the dream and building a business abroad. They share their personal experiences of moving to different countries and the challenges and rewards that come with it. They emphasize the importance of following your heart and taking risks, as well as the need to plan and prepare for the move. They also talk about the benefits of living in Europe, such as the slower pace of life, access to nature, and cultural experiences. The conversation touches on topics like visas, building a community, and overcoming fear. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights and inspiration for anyone considering a move abroad. Hit play! Meet Sophie: Sophie Epton is an international wedding and travel photographer, shooting all over the world for the past 12 years. Alongside photography, Sophie also coaches female entrepreneurs, helping women break through barriers and make their goals a reality. Together with her husband, Jordan, and 18 month-old twins, London and Luca, she recently moved to Provence to embark on a lifelong dream of living in France. Sophie & Jordan are launching their new podcast "Away We Go, We Go" to discuss expat life in France, business and designing your own dream life. In her free time, you will find Sophie booking a ticket to her next travel destination, spending weekends at the antique brocantes or searching for the best truffle pasta in Provence. "Life is so short and we don't get time back, so it's important that we don't waste one day living our lives for other people or their opinions, but instead live an existence that is true to ourselves and what brings us immense joy."

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy interviews Jennifer Moher, a wedding photographer known for her emotional and nostalgic style. They discuss Jennifer's unconventional start in photography, her approach to weddings as a director, and the influence of movies on her work. Jennifer shares her journey of shifting towards capturing authentic emotion and creating emotional connections with her couples. They also explore the balance between directing couples and capturing genuine moments, as well as the importance of staying true to oneself on Instagram. Jennifer's growth on Instagram and the role it has played in her business success are also highlighted. In this conversation, Jennifer Moher discusses her unique approach to Instagram and Instagram education. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and avoiding regurgitation of information. Jennifer also shares her perspective on curating Instagram work and the balance between being a photographer and an artist. She highlights the power of music in setting the mood and romanticizing life. Overall, Jennifer's insights provide a refreshing and artistic perspective on Instagram and photography. Hit play!

Meet Jennifer Moher: Jennifer is a Toronto-based wedding photographer who treasures family, nostalgia, movies, good conversation, and love. She wishes she could freeze time to savor moments surrounded by the best humans. Her goal, when photographing weddings, is to capture the love and connections between her clients and their loved ones, and to truly witness and celebrate their beauty and love. Having served 500+ wedding clients in 16 different countries, Jennifer is an experienced and worldly photographer, capable of capturing love stories from around the globe. Reach out with any questions or to share your love for life.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy discusses the values that a brand needs to have to be considered luxury and why simply calling yourself luxury is not enough. She also explores the importance of tapping into creativity and the feminine flow in order to grow a successful business. D'Arcy emphasizes the need to break free from societal stories and patterns that hold us back and to prioritize self-care and rest. She also touches on the concept of craftsmanship and superior performance as key elements of a luxury brand. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

Learn the ins and outs of breaking into the luxury wedding photography market with Rebecca Yale and I. We cover the crucial role of practice and pricing strategies for success. Tune in now!

Meet Rebecca Yale:

Rebecca is a world renowned, brilliant photographer and educator based in California. She has been named one of the top photographers in the world by Harper's Bazaar and Bride's Magazine and included in 100's of publications including Martha Stewart and The Knot. Rebecca's goal is to encourage photographers to grow their business so that they can be fulfilled financially and artistically.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES This show originally aired on 1/26/2023

One of the most common questions I get is how to get on Preferred Vendor Lists, and I’ve brought on the owner of Rachael Ellen Events to personally answer your questions and teach you the do’s and don’ts of connecting with wedding planners. What are you waiting for? Push play already!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/the-secret-to-getting-booked-by-wedding-planners/ This episode originally aired on 10/22/2019.

In this episode, D'Arcy and Peyton cover a variety of skills and strategies to becoming a luxury wedding filmmaker. They discus finding your own vision, how to price yourself, how to deal with clients, and how to deliver a truly exception and luxury experience for clients. Hit play!

Meet Peyton Frank:

Peyton is a luxury destination wedding, commercial, and editorial cinematographer named by Harper’s Bazaar as one of the Top Wedding Filmmakers in the World. With humble beginnings as an intern at a wedding planning firm and producer at an experiential marketing agency, she has over ten years of knowledge of the wedding and events industry and five years as a self-taught wedding filmmaker. She now works alongside some of the most talented and sought-after wedding planners, photographers, and designers in the world.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I'm delving into the secret sauce of crafting wow factor images that not only capture attention but also resonate with luxury photography clients. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES NOTE: This episode originally aired on Sep 14, 2023.

In this episode D'Arcy and Elisabetta discuss what it's like to grow a luxury photography business from the ground up. They chat about the importance of being true to yourself, how to improve your styled shoots to attract your dream clients, and the power of collaboration. They even touch on enjoying the journey and not rushing growth as a luxury photographer. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D’Arcy and Nicole discuss powerful pricing strategies for creative businesses. Discover how to set yourself apart from the competition through innovation, prioritize profitability while staying true to your artistic vision, and leverage workshops to attract aligned clients. Tune in for strategies and inspiration to help you build a successful and sustainable creative business. Hit play!

In this episode, D’Arcy and Ayanah discuss what it’s like to pursue a creative endeavor. They discuss where they source inspiration, how to build confidence, and how to handle rejection. They even dive into some of their favorite photographs and how they created them. Hit play! CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Bridget Wood and D'Arcy chat about the stept that took Bridget from a struggling creative to a thriving, multi-six figure family photographer and educator. They dive into defining your target audience, figuring out your niche, and dialing in the customer experience. Hit play!

Meet Bridget Wood: Bridget Wood, is a sought after Australian portrait photographer who has captured the hearts of many families around the world. Her work has graced the pages of renowned publications such as Vogue, Elle, Conde Nast Traveller, Mother Mag and Rangefinder to name a few. Fueled by an unwavering passion for making motherhood visible, Bridget goes beyond the art of only capturing moments that show you exist but tell a story of how you loved. Her work has been described as timeless, emotive and romantic and her favourite moments are the in between. For the past 3 years, Bridget has also taught other photographers how to forge sustainable and lucrative businesses. With a profound focus on self-worth, systems, strategy, service, and sales, she guides her student's towards success and building a business they love. Her dedication to her craft has garnered widespread recognition, taking her to Europe and the USA for photography assignments and speaking engagements and when she is not doing all of that she is living on the land with.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D’Arcy and Whitney discuss how to get started as a product photographer, how to pitch to brands, and how to make more money as a product photographer. They touch on money mindset, what camera settings and editing tools Whitney uses, and how to land and keep valuable clients. Hit play!

Meet Whitney Finuf:

Whitney Finuf specializes in stylish imagery for beauty and wellness brands. With a passion for light, color, and creative concepts, she discovered her love for product photography during art school in 2015. Her work effortlessly aligns with youthful, stylish, and creative brands. Outside of her craft, she enjoys traveling, tending to her flourishing plant collection, and cherishing moments with her family and adorable Shih Tzu.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this epsiode, D'Arcy touches on 5 ways you're limiting your own successes. She talks about everything from your ego to resitsting the things you actually want to be doing. Finally, she talks about what it means to build a business that allows you to live the life of your dreams. Hit play!

Register for Self Made Mastermind

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy dives into how to get your clients to say yes (it's probably not how you think!). She highlights building confidence and addressing client objections. Strategies for effective calls and being unattached to outcomes are shared. D'Arcy encourages overcoming insecurities, taking action and mindset shifts. She talks about effortlessly booking clients by understanding needs, building trust, effective communication, solutions, objections, and closing deals. Hit play!

Register for Self Made

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy gives you everything you need to know to stop trading your time for money and start building wealth. She talks about how every industry and every person can make more passive income through digital products, courses, writing, and doing the things that they love. Hit play!

Register for Self Made Mastermind

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy dives into the shifting dynamics of social media, the demise of cookies, the power of customer avatars, monetizing your audience, and the art of staying ahead of the curve. She explores how to set your business up to avoid the biggest marketing mistakes of 2024 and grow your business among the changing social landscape. Hit play.

APPLY FOR SELF MADE MASTERMIND

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy dives into the art of decision making and explore how it shapes our lives. She explains the power dynamics behind our choices and the impact they have on our well-being. Discover the importance of understanding ourselves, embracing choice and consequence, and building self-trust. She also explores the concept of replacing goals with identity-driven systems, allowing for continuous growth and success. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this transformative podcast, D'Arcy dives deep into the raw emotions and experiences that shape our journey towards self-love and acceptance. Join D'Arcy on this fast-moving, dynamic journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Together, let's face the unknown with courage and play it brave. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy discusses her highlights and mistakes of 2023 including health challenges, business moves, relationships and spirituality. Hit play to dive into this wonderful year end recap with D'Arcy.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, D'Arcy and her two sisters April and Brooke conversate about the alignment of the 4 bodies (physical, spiritual, mental, and emotional). They talk about all things psycho-somatic and give you guidance on how to listen to and understand your mind body connections. Hit play!

Meet April Benincosa: April is the heart of the family and an embodiment of the lover archetype. You’ll often find April hosting family parties and sharing love and positivity everywhere she goes. She uses her outgoing personality to create safe spaces filled with love for people to heal and carries her energy through her career of owning five salons.

Meet Brooke Benincosa: Brooke is the youngest and the warrior archetype of the family. She has been a registered nurse for 10 years and has extensive knowledge in somatic body work. She is passionate about helping people release trauma in the body to allow them more space to heal and step into their power.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Sabrina and I discuss the major mistakes creatives make that hold them back from making money. We cover all things money mindset and how to intentionally manifest more money into your lives. Hit play!

Meet Sabrina:

Sabrina is a lifestyle photographer of almost 13 years in Fort Worth, Texas. She is also a business coach to female photographers and the host of the Shoot it Straight podcast. Sabrina is married to her college sweetheart and together they have 3 kids and 2 dogs. She loves caffeine, emojis, color and reading anything she can get her hands on. Sabrina is a strong enneagram 3 who really does have to force herself to sit still but over the years, has learned that her business (and sanity) benefit from slowing down.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Bree and I discuss how to establish yourself as a destination photographer in any city. Learn how to leverage social media, SEO, and your network to grow a client base anywhere in the world. Hit play!

Meet Bree Woolliscroft: Bree Woolliscroft, an esteemed and nationally published wedding photographer, has had the privilege of photographing weddings in some of the most picturesque locations throughout Colorado, across the continental United States and Europe. Renowned for her eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to exquisite lighting, Bree's work has been seen in national publications such as The Knot and Martha Stewart Weddings.

Bree's journey into the world of photography began with an innate appreciation for the artful interplay between light and emotion when receiving her BFA in film photography from Florida State University. What truly distinguishes Bree's work is her distinct eye for the nuanced, candid, and authentic interactions that define each wedding.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Martina and D'Arcy are discussing how hiring a photo editor works and how it can transfrom your business. Photo editors can help you elevate your brand, create a cohesive portfolio, and help you book the high value clients you've been dreaming of. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

Elizabeth Messina’s story unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of capturing the essence of women through her lens. In this episode, we learn about how and why she captures women the way that she does and The Arte of Boudoir. Hit play!

MEET ELIZABETH MESSINA: Elizabeth is an award winning artist, high-profile editorial photographer, published author, loving wife and mother. Widely recognized for her luminous, natural light photographs, intimate portraiture of women and sublime fashion work, Elizabeth’s images have graced the covers and pages of countless magazines and books.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

Elizabeth Messina’s story unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of capturing the essence of women through her lens. In this episode, we discuss the artistry, passion, and evolution that outline her photography journey and The Arte of Boudoir. Hit play!

In this episode, Sabrina and I are discussing how to avoid photographer burnout, what burnout looks and feels like, and our own struggles with burnout. Hit play!

Meet Sabrina Gebhardt: Sabrina is a lifestyle photographer of almost 13 years in Fort Worth, Texas. She is also a business coach to female photographers and the host of the Shoot it Straight podcast. Sabrina is married to her college sweetheart and together they have 3 kids and 2 dogs. She loves caffeine, emojis, color and reading anything she can get her hands on. Sabrina is a strong enneagram 3 who really does have to force herself to sit still but over the years, has learned that her business (and sanity) benefit from slowing down.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Sarah Blodgett and I are giving all the secrets to a money-making website. You'll want to tune in and take action before engagement season arrives and the inquiries start rolling in! Hit play!

Meet Sarah Blodgett:

Sarah founded Digital Grace Design in 2017 to help creatives, wedding professionals, and lifestyle brands escape website shame and find confidence in beautiful, strategic websites that help them book more clients and grow their businesses. Sarah is proud to have been trusted by 200+ clients so far, and is honored to have been named Showit's 2019 Designer of the Year

Digital Grace Design specializes in Showit website design – 3 ways: Custom Showit Websites, our client favorite – the Website in a Week, and one-day Design Intensives. And for those that prefer a DIY approach to launching their next website, they also offer a Showit website template shop.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

Do you want to know what made Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner and music heartthrob Joe Jonas say “you’re hired” to Corbin Gurkin, photographer extraordinaire?

I certainly did! That’s why I brought her on the Play It Brave podcast this week!

Corbin is a photographer of more than 20 years and has photographed weddings in California’s wine country, the striking beaches of Thailand, country estates in Ireland, and the hillside villages of Tuscany. Her work is regularly featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Town & Country, and she’s captured PDN’s Top Knots Wedding Photography grand prize award. Corbin’s celebrity clients include Sophie Turner & Joe Jonas, Allen Leech & Jessica Herman, Ashley Tisdale & Christopher French, and many others she can’t tell us about.

Corbin was able to build her reputation by not only exceeding the expectations of her clients with outstanding work, but she often submitted her images for publication. After being featured in publications like Martha Stewart Weddings, Once Wed, and Elle Decor early in her career, she became widely trusted by high end wedding planners and couples. This just goes to show that putting off submitting your work could mean putting off your goal of reaching the luxury clients of your dreams!

If you want to learn more about what it takes to land your first celebrity wedding, hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/celebrity-wedding-photographer-corbin-gurkin/

This episode originally aired 8/11/2020

Entrepreneurship is filled with busy days and SO. MUCH. HUSTLE. Welcome to burnout-ville, am I right? In this episode, I interviewed the one and only Perry Vaile, an extraordinary photographer, but an even better mother and wife. With the help of boundaries and workflows, she has been able to carve out more time for herself and her family, while still running a highly successful wedding photography business. Listen to hear all her secrets for showing up for her family AND her clients – both in a remarkable way.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/less-hustle-more-rest-perry-vaile/

This episode originally aired on 2/25/2020

Take a minute to imagine your dream job. Where are you? France? Italy? California? Who are you working with? Who are you serving? I want you to keep this dream job in mind while you listen to this episode where I interview internationally famous photographer, Greg Finck. He shares his secrets to breaking into the luxury market of your dreams so that YOU can use them to break into the luxury market of YOUR dreams! Are you ready? Hit play.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/luxury-market-greg-finck/

This episode was originally released 2/13/2020

In this episode, I'm delving into the secret sauce of crafting wow factor images that not only capture attention but also resonate with luxury photography clients. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

If you feel stuck in the budget wedding hamster wheel, then this episode is for you! In this Hot Seat episode, I give Lauren Galla-Rini some simple tips that can help her transform her brand, vendor relationships, and portfolio to attract the luxury clientele that she dreams of. Say goodbye to burlap and say hello to Vogue-worthy details! Hit play to find out how.

About Lauren Galla-Rini:

Lauren Galla-Rini has been in the event industry for more then 10 years. After 5 years of fully submerging herself in it, she had a burning desire to start her own company called My Beloved Events. Her wedding and event planning company focuses on bringing an elegant timeless design with exceptional communication and planning services to her clients.

She has a passion for traveling and family and incorporates that into her business as it's the foundation of her love for people and connection.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/luxury-market-lauren-galla-rini

This episode was originally released 7/13/21

In this episode, I am discussing six marketing strategies I use to attract luxury wedding clients each year. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

Today we’re diving into the ever-popular question about how to get booked for destination weddings without having a destination wedding portfolio. In this Hot Seat episode with fellow-photographer, Juliana Cole, I’m giving you the ultimate action plan that will have you waking up to a view of the Eiffel Tower in no time. Hit play to hear all the details! About Juliana Cole:

Juliana Cole is a NY-based photographer, documenting weddings and portraits for couples in love. Juliana has a BA of creative writing, and uses that as a tool to tell better stories for the people she photographs. She lives in Upstate NY with her husband and dog-child, Whiskey, and spends her free time throwing clay on her outdoor wheel, exploring Upstate NY, and dreaming up future travel plans. SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/hot-seats-destination-weddings-juliana-cole This episode was originally released 7/6/21

In this episode, I am telling all of the secret strategies I use to set my photography business up for a profitable engagement season. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I discuss the book "The Fourth Turning" and how it applies to businesses. I share with you the strategies I am currently using to make sure my business stays profitable and supported during low economic times.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

From marketing her business on Craigslist to being featured on Martha Stewart Weddings Best Of list, Abby Jiu is a true inspiration to all of us wherever we are in our journey. On this episode Abby and I dive into the intentional strategy that landed her many publications features and luxury weddings and we outline a few tactics you may not have heard before. Let her transformation story be your kick in the butt to get.your.work.seen and submit!

About Abby Jiu:

Abby Jiu began her career as a fine art wedding photographer in 2009. In the intervening years she’s been named a top wedding photographer by Martha Stewart Weddings, and her couple’s days have been featured in People, Brides, The Knot, Over the Moon, Washingtonian Weddings, and Inside Weddings.

Her signature high fashion aesthetic makes her one of the most highly sought after photographers around the world for discerning couples and wedding professionals alike.

THIS EPISODE ORGINALLY AIRED APRIL 2022. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES.

In this episode, Ryan and I discuss 4 ways to embrace life as the gift that it is. We talk about embracing the unknown, what it means to live without owing anything, and how to live in your essence. Hit play!

Meet Ryan Wegenast From a free-flowing childhood through the cornfields of Nebraska to the Military to working in brain surgery, to the streets of Africa, the jungles of Peru, and his Ph.D. Ryan has lived many lives moving from one unknown to the next, in pursuit of learning to relax fully into his life, while curating a body of work that's nurturing the human spirit forward. Ryan currently works with Award-Winning British Designers, Hollywood Producers, Celebrities, Web 3 Innovators, Fortune Leaders, Artists, and Entrepreneurs. Helping them connect deeply to source, guiding them into the fullest expression of their lives and work. Ryan lives in Nashville, TN, with his British wife and three daughters.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I discuss the Barbie movie and how it relates to feminism and the patriarchy. I dive into actionable steps we can take now, to make a meaningful impact and help build generations of healthy men and women.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

Engage! is taking the luxury wedding industry by storm, and some people aren’t that happy about it. In this episode, I giving you my take on Engage! and why I think many photographers are afraid of it. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I talk about the 5 money habits that helped me breakthrough 6 figure years to 7 figure years. I deep dive into the mindset shifts, daily habits, and education I developed to reach financial freedom as a creative entrepreneur.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Marke Freeman and I deep dive into what it takes to live a meaningful, successful life that will truly shape the world. Growing up poor didn’t stop Marke from achieving excellence and she breaks down how she did it with so much courage and grace. Hit Play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Julie Wilhite and I discuss how to make more money as a luxury photographer through album sales. Julie made $20K in the first 3 months of the year through album sales alone. Plus, if you stay to the end you'll hear more about our recent ayahuasca retreat in Costa Rica. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, we dive into these archetypes alongside Christy Foster, an expert in the realm of archetypes. Together, we explore how embracing these archetypes can unlock one's true potential and usher them into a realm of unparalleled empowerment.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I discuss why people troll and how to handle internet trolls. I share my experiences of being on both sides of trolling and how I have grown through these experiences.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I’m taking you inside my mind to see what happens when I’m taking someone’s portrait versus just taking a photograph. And yes, there is a big difference to my approach, method, and outcome (and lighting, and gear!). Hit play!

Meet Brittany Boote: Brittany Boote is a Pennsylvania native with a strong enthusiasm for creating exceptional photography and serving her clients. Her photographs are cinematic in nature and artfully balanced with powerful portrait moments. Her calm presence and intuition in understanding storytelling & emotion are trademarks of her work. Prior to discovering her passion for photography, Brittany worked TV&Film in Manhattan as well as in the music & entertainment industries. Her work has been celebrated around the globe via The Huffington Post, and INSIDER, as well as the multi-year winner of Junebug Weddings “Best of The Best”. She was also included in LOOKSLIKEFILM’s collection of The Best Wedding Photographers in the World. Her love for fashion, culture, cinema, classic Hollywood, human connection, and the community is the driving of her career as a Wedding Photographer.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Rachel Larsen Weaver and I talk about all things self love and plus size bodies. We dive deep into how to unlearn toxic thought patterns about bodies and cultivate more self love for ourselves and others. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I outline the importance of storytelling in photography, how to become a director, and how storytelling can transform your portfolio into a luxury portfolio. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I'm diving in to styled shoots and their purpose in the photography industry. I'm giving you 8 reasons why styled shoots aren't dead and how you can use them to grow your photography business.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I am diving into consistency and how it is vital to living a creative, fulfilling life. Being consistent in your actions is what drives success in your businesses, relationships, and life. Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Shanna Skidmore and I discuss overcoming obstacles and what to do when you fail. Stay till the end for bonus tax hacks! Are you in? Hit play!

Meet Shana:

Shanna Skidmore is former fortune 100 financial advisor turned business consultant, educator, and international speaker with clients and students in more than 26 countries. Nicknamed the “dream–releaser” by her clients, she’s helped business owners around the world build lives and businesses they love! Her greatest joy in life (besides being a wife and mama), is helping others chase after their dreams.

After working alongside thousands of creative entrepreneurs, Shanna took the most confusing, frustrating, frequently asked (and frequently wine-and-tears accompanied) business concepts—financial planning, strategy, scale, mindset—and simplified them. With a background in finance, psychology, and art she has successfully married the world of business and creativity, and now uses her 15+ years of experience to teach and consult with business owners around the world through her signature program, The Blueprint Model.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, I dive into why people lie, what people lie about, and how to stop lying. Living with integrity is something I take very seriously and I think you should too! Interested in hearing about why people lie? Hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Lana and I discuss the art of Tantra breathwork. We dive into the healing elements of the breath, various breathwork practices, and look into the divine feminine and masculine. Hit play!

Meet Lana Elco:

Lana Elco is the Founder of the Breath of Remembrance healing breathwork modality, as well as a Holotropic Breathwork Facilitator with years of experience. Lana is a Consciousness Coach & Intimacy Artist, trained to support people through transformational processes. Lana has a Master’s Degree in Social & Political Sciences, Business Administration, studied Transpersonal Psychology and is certified as a Holotropic Breathwork facilitator through Grof Transpersonal Training. She is also trained in NVC (Non Violent Communication), Zegg Psychodrama, Intimacy and Tantra. As a relationship and intimacy expert Lana focuses on healing wounds between women and men, activating the transformational power of the Feminine, helping heal & create authentic intimate relationships. She has been working with people in expanded states of consciousness for many years, as well as with couples and women from all over the world.

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Jaiden and I dive into the 4 social media strategies that are generating massive growth right now. We talk about all things social media and the algorithm. You don't want to miss this, hit play!

Meet Jaiden Robinson:

After spending 6 years in corporate America as a marketer, Jaiden decided it was time to stop resisting the feminine urge to create. She wanted to do more of what she loved and less of what she didn't, so she took the leap to entrepreneurship. Jaiden is passionate about being a creative and helping others, these things combined have led her to becoming a successful social media manager.

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Rachel and I dive into how she went from full time photographer to six figure business coach. We tell you everything you need to know about getting started, figuring out your coaching niche, and designing your course for success. Hit play if you’re ready to level up your business!

Meet Rachel Traxler:

Rachel is a Wedding Photographer and Photography Business Coach empowering ambitious wedding photographers to become in demand by elevating client connection so they can work less and serve more. She has helped thousands of photographers + entrepreneurs over the past few years through coaching, courses, speaking events, and free resources bringing a warm and inviting approach to everything she does. She is also the host of the Gold Biz Podcast where you can find her "to the point" approach helpful for actionable tips for your business! Her goal is to help photographers be the go-to in their market so they can work less and make more!

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES

In recognition of Women's History Month, I am sharing my 5 self love rituals. I dive into why I have these rituals in my life and how you can do them yourself. If cultivating more self love is in your plans this year, hit play!

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES

In this no-bullshit episode, Jodi and I discuss mindset strategies, what scaling can look like, and how to break through your fears to make more money and have more freedom.

Meet Jodi Anne:

Jodi is an accomplished international wedding photographer and educator. She has a masters degree in education and school psychology that has lead her to launching multiple successful courses for photographers. She is a mother of 3 little gentlemen, full of deep authenticity and candid humor!

Make sure to stay to the end of the episode for some funny dating stories and outtakes from the full episode.

CLICK HERE FOR THE SHOW NOTES

In this episode, we dive into all things India, learn more about how she started her career, what her day-to-day life looks like, and how she launched her first passive income source. You don’t want to miss this juicy episode about making millions through passive income. Hit play!

Meet India Earl:

India is a photographer and business coach for creatives based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. Her photography focuses on emotion, romanticizing every chapter of life, regardless of how beautiful or broken it may seem on the outside. She specializes in self-love sessions empowering womxn, couples, and small weddings in nature. She is an avid outdoorist and animal lover, raising chickens and honeybees in her backyard with her two dogs. Her education takes a holistic approach, starting with mindset for each of her students so they can learn how to empower themselves, their businesses, and their art.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/india-earl/

In this episode, we are diving into Alicia Park’s very first 30K month and how she got there by living in flow and taking action. Hit play!

Meet Alicia Parks:

Alicia Parks is an award winning, published wedding and senior portrait photographer whose specialty includes understanding each individual love story, and curating timeless art pieces from the special connection you have with one another.

With over a decade of experience, you can see in her work a passion for love stories, romance and a love for the arts. Her inspiration has been drawn from the gorgeous place she calls home, within the vast rolling hills of wine country and the savory smells of cabernet, to the salty air of the California coast. Her work can be seen in California Wedding Day, The Knot, SMP and in print magazines.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/alicia-parks/

In this episode I share with you how I have developed my own creative community that has helped me grow my career as a coach and photographer. I dive into why creating a community for yourself is the most important thing you can do to see progress in your life and business. Finally, share tips and tricks on how to grow your own community through collaboration. Hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/creative-community/

In this episode, I dive into what it takes to bring your creative ideas from your dreams to a reality. Come with me as I go in depth on how to connect with your creative power and give you actions to take today to start moving towards launching your next big idea. Hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/mindset/big-ideas/

In this episode, I share stories from The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler and dive into reclaiming your feminine energy. Hit play if you're ready to go on a journey of self discovery and learning to love your "V".

Trigger warning: sexual assault, violence.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/reclaiming-femininity/

In this week's episode, I share the importance of moving out of victim mode and into power mode in your life. I teach you how to identify if you are in victim mode, why you might find yourself there, and how to break out of it and step into power mode. Hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/power-mode/

Learn the ins and outs of breaking into the luxury wedding photography market with Rebecca Yale and I. We cover the crucial role of practice and pricing strategies for success. Tune in now!

Meet Rebecca Yale:

Rebecca is a world renowned, brilliant photographer and educator based in California. She has been named one of the top photographers in the world by Harper's Bazaar and Bride's Magazine and included in 100's of publications including Martha Stewart and The Knot. Rebecca's goal is to encourage photographers to grow their business so that they can be fulfilled financially and artistically.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/rebecca-yale/

On this episode of the Play it Brave Podcast, I'm diving in to the practices I use to nuture myself when I am feeling disconnected, drained, and unloved. I'm talking about how to use nature as a tool to create healing in our lives. Hit Play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/how-to-heal-with-nature/

On this week’s episode of the Play It Brave Podcast, I’m letting you in on one of my favorite lessons in money. I’m giving you a step by step guide on how to create a space to let money in. Hit Play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/creating-a-space-for-money/

How many ways do you allow true wealth into your life?

Most people say money in the bank, and yes, that’s one. But what about ALL THE OTHER WAYS TO BE WEALTHY? On the first episode of the 2023 Play It Brave podcast, I’m diving into ALL the ways to bring wealth in your life in preparation for a magical year of mastery for all of you artists, creatives, writers, dreamers!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/12-true-riches-in-life/

As the year comes to a close, I reflect on all that I have grown from and learned about, and I take you with me! In this episode, I go through the final 10 lessons I learned in 2022. I dive deep into my journey of finding alignment, self doubt, and asking for help. Hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/22-lessons-2/

As the year comes to a close, I reflect on all that I have grown from and learned about, and I take you with me! In this episode, I go through 12 lessons I learned in 2022. I get super honest about what my intentions were, where I wasted time, what I held on to, let go of and so much more. Hit play!

TW: self harm and eating disorders

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/mindset/2022-lessons-1

Curious about entering the digital product space? Want to know more about the impact of your social media presence? Listen in as we discuss pivoting from photography to education, social media strategies, and creating balance in our lives as photographers and educators.

Meet Nicola Dixon: Nicola is a photographer, podcaster and launch strategist based in the UK. She loves to travel, play outside and spend time with her beloved Dalmation, Margot. Nicola discovered early on in her career the burnout that comes from overbooking which led her to develop her first digital product. Since then, she has dedicated herself to creating and launching successful digital products. Her goal is to help photographers avoid burnout and make money doing what they love with her clear, straightforward approach to launching digital products.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/nicola-dixon/

Do the holidays tend to trigger you and fill you with stress? Listen in while I chat with my sisters Brooke and April about how we have started to heal generational trauma and bring our family closer together to enjoy the holidays free of stress.

Meet April Benincosa: April is the heart of the family and an embodiment of the lover archetype. You’ll often find April hosting family parties and sharing love and positivity everywhere she goes. She uses her outgoing personality to create safe spaces filled with love for people to heal and carries her energy through her career of owning five salons.

Meet Brooke Benincosa: Brooke is the youngest and the warrior archetype of the family. She has been a registered nurse for 10 years and has extensive knowledge in somatic body work. She is passionate about helping people release trauma in the body to allow them more space to heal and step into their power.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/mindset/benincosa-sisters/

Many people know how to get rich, but few truly know the road to building long term wealth. Learn from Candy Valentino, a serial entrepreneur and wealth building genius, as we discuss her new book WEALTH HABITS: Six Ordinary Steps to Achieve Extraordinary Financial Freedom.

About Candy Valentino:

During her two-and-a-half decades as an entrepreneur, Valentino has been named to Top Business Leaders 40 Under 40, Top 50 Women In Business, 10 People Making a Difference, Top 10 Business Consultants by Yahoo Finance, and was the youngest female to receive the Governor’s Award in Entrepreneurship in Pennsylvania. Success Magazine named her “Women of Influence” and “Leaders Who Get Results” alongside Tony Robbins and Brené Brown. She shares her gritty, real-world business and investing strategies with an audience of millions through her Founders Organization. Candy Valentino lives in Scottsdale, AZ.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/money/candy-valentino/

Many people know how to get rich, but few truly know the road to building long term wealth. Learn from Candy Valentino, a serial entrepreneur and wealth building genius, as we discuss her new book WEALTH HABITS: Six Ordinary Steps to Achieve Extraordinary Financial Freedom.

About Candy Valentino:

During her two-and-a-half decades as an entrepreneur, Valentino has been named to Top Business Leaders 40 Under 40, Top 50 Women In Business, 10 People Making a Difference, Top 10 Business Consultants by Yahoo Finance, and was the youngest female to receive the Governor’s Award in Entrepreneurship in Pennsylvania. Success Magazine named her “Women of Influence” and “Leaders Who Get Results” alongside Tony Robbins and Brené Brown. She shares her gritty, real-world business and investing strategies with an audience of millions through her Founders Organization. Candy Valentino lives in Scottsdale, AZ.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/money/candy-valentino/

The biggest thing I hear from photographers is how temporary their career is. Almost all of the photographers who go through my coaching programs talk about how they plan to pivot into something else (which I do highly recommend if that’s your dream). But for those of you who truly find joy photography and don’t want your career to end just because you’re burnt out, then tune in to hear what Sandra Coan has to say about maintaining a long-term photography career that continues to not only grow, but also leaves your soul and bank account feeling fulfilled.

About Sandra:

Sandra Coan is an award winning newborn and family photographer, certified teacher and industry educator, and a best selling author. She is passionate about helping other photographers create consistency in their work and sustainability in their brand and business.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/sandra-coan

Imagine working with only FOUR clients per year. And not only that, these clients trust your vision and expertise so implicitly that they reached out to you exclusively to do the job. You’re able to take a sabbatical each year, pick up your kids from school each day, travel the world, or whatever you decide YOUR rich life looks like. Your confidence and a few insider tips could get you there, so listen to this episode with Wendy of Birds of a Feather Events for all the details.

About:

With a background in producing and directing live and recorded television for the better part of 10 years, Wendy is the definition of “quick on your feet.” She prides herself on being a solution-oriented problem solver—which has served her well in her 12 years of planning and executing flawless events. Wendy’s passion to create and execute original ideas for each of her couples’ weddings means that in addition to running smoothly, they are a fun, enjoyable, memorable, and tangible pieces of fine art. With a straightforward approach, Wendy builds a rapport with her clients. She believes that the more she gets to know her couples, the better (and more personal) the wedding will be. Wendy has been deemed a Top Wedding Planner and Event Designer Worldwide by Martha Stewart Weddings, and Best Wedding Planner in America by BRIDES. As a co-founder of Educate | Empower | Encourage, Wendy finds immense joy in assisting other creatives in leveling up their own businesses.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/wendy-kay

Instagram getting you down? In this strategy-packed episode, I chat with my Self Made Alum, Amber Courtney about the tactics she used to boost her Instagram following by 10k in less than 6 months – resulting in a $40k course pre-launch. Come away from this episode with a different perspective and a handful of great strategies you may be overlooking.

About Amber Courtney:

Amber Courtney, owner of Light Livin Photography, is a Bay area-based portrait photographer and photography educator. Amber enrolled in my Self Made Mastermind in the Spring of 2021, and since then has branched out into education, had a $40,000 pre-launch of her course, grown her Instagram following by 10,000, and has truly become the CEO of her life and business.

SHOW NOTES:https://darcybenincosa.com/marketing/amber-courtney

As of late, the term Quiet Quitting has been circulating around the internet. As I see it, the underlying cause of this trendy concept being the culture of overworking and hustle that has plagued women desiring success and financial freedom for generations.

As an entrepreneur, you might be sitting on the sidelines shaking your head because you don’t have the luxury of doing the bare minimum in your business while staying afloat. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, overworked, and underpaid, then tune in.

In this episode, Self Made Alum and talented coach for photographers, Alora Rachelle and I discuss how to get out of the hustle and hire your super team for the ultimate work-life balance that allows you to take time away and grow faster than you could ever imagine. Tune in to get all the juicy details!

About Alora Rachelle: Alora Rachelle is an expert wedding photographer and coach who believes in strategic marketing and growing a systemized business. As a coach for photographers, Alora is the host of the Hello CEO Podcast and a creator of The Wedding CEO. A group coaching for photographers looking to grow their business from 0 to six figures.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/alora-rachelle

Wondering if it’s time for you to add coaching or mentorship to your business? The truth is, some people jump into the education space too early… On today’s episode I'm outlining the 10 benchmarks you should meet before becoming a coach or mentor. Hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/coach-mentor

A year ago I almost said no to 1 million dollars. I had decided my annual goal (for multiple years in a row) wasn’t in the cards and I would just coast through the rest of the year (sounds nice, right?) It took a little convincing from my coach, a mindset shift, creativity, and some strategy, but I did it. And the best part? You can too. It’s never too late to reach your goals – in fact – the fourth quarter makes up for up to 75% of revenue for most businesses. Let that sink in and tune in so that you can be blown away by your results come December 31st. No goals left behind!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/money/q4-goals

Over the past 9 years as an entrepreneur I’ve slowly built my empire and made 4 million dollars and counting… The truth is, I’m not on a fast track to growth that it often seems many entrepreneurs get a first class ticket to. My path to the millionaire benchmark was in fact slow, but oh so sweet. In this episode I’m sharing my top four tips to reaching your version of wealth, and how you, too can build a business to build a beautiful life.

Tired of spending hours upon hours creating content and dancing for likes with little to show for it? We all love to complain about the algorithm, but what if I told you there’s a better way? Dive into this episode with my friend, past coaching client, and fellow photographer, Heather Anderson, while we chat about how paid advertisement has changed our businesses for the better, and how you can too with just a few simple strategies!

About Heather Anderson:

Heather is a California elopement photographer, workshop host and educator with 10 years of experience. She went from a full-time teacher to a destination wedding photographer (just like me!), and is now combining both passions to help photographers build their businesses with proven marketing strategies.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/heather-anderson

I’ve read all the things on the internet about an impending recession. But what if your mindset was RECESSION PROOF. What if your business was so intentional and systematic that no economic event could touch it with a ten foot pole?

Successful people beat the odds all the time. Do you have what it takes to be someone who constantly proves the naysayers wrong?

Anything is possible when you believe it. When you embody it. When you show up and do it. Hit play to hear my top 5 things you can do to recession-proof your business.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/recession-proof

If marketing and sales feel slimy to you, then today’s episode will give you a fresh perspective. Ryan Ray is a former fireman turned world-renowned photographer with a passion for serving his people. He doesn’t rely on formulas or set strategies to grow his business. Instead, he relies on connection, relationships, and building a beautiful reputation. Tune in to hear his story on how he took his passion to serve to become a sought after destination photographer, and how you can too.

About Ryan Ray: Ryan is a photographer based in the south and travels worldwide for the work he does. He lives in Texas with his wife Cary and boys, River and Rocky. The most important things to know about him are: He loves people deeply, approaches his work with professionalism and enthusiasm, and gives God glory for enabling him, through photography, the opportunity to show others just how beautiful and unique they are.

Show Notes: https://darcybenincosa.com/marketing/ryan-ray

Ready to raise your prices, but worried about losing your clients and customers? Listen in on this exclusive preview of The Money Map course where I walk you through what you need to do to raise your prices with confidence (and without the bat of an eye from your clients)! Let’s get started.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/money/how-to-raise-your-prices

This bonus episode combines three of my favorite things: sleeping, eating, and sexy men. Wrap yourself up and hit play while Nathan Freitas lulls you to sleep while tantalizing your senses.

Are you doing enough storytelling in your business? Are you telling the right stories for your brand? Do you even know how to tell a compelling story? Tune into this episode with Storytelling Expert and Photographer/Cinematographer, Nathan Freitas. Nathan and I share a candid conversation about what makes a compelling story, what stories you SHOULDN’T be telling, and how to tell your stories so they connect to your customers and clients. And if you’re ready for a real treat, tune into part 2 of this episode for a special surprise called “Decadent Desserts”

About Nathan:

Nathan Freitas has spent the past 18 years telling stories building out sales and marketing processes are some of the largest companies in the world like Salesforce.com and Microsoft.

Fed up with the lack of human in most sales and marketing today, he’s on a mission to cut out all the hype, BS, and start engaging and telling human stories that move people.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/nathan-freitas-brand-stories

Have you been telling yourself “one day I’ll travel the world”? It’s time to stop putting it off and experience the expansion that happens when you step out of your daily life and plunge into the unknown wonders of other cultures. Imagine the stories and growth that can happen along the way! In this episode, my friend Bronwyn and I chat about an Egyptian journey we’re going on this year and we invite you to join us! Hit play if you need a little escape today.

About Bronwyn:

Bronwyn Spilsbury is an intrepid explorer of land and spirit. She is passionate about leading groups to discover their spiritual heritage in the places where Biblical stories are rooted.

Raised in India, Bronwyn has lived in Europe, Israel and North America. Her experience as a pastor, love for the Bible, attention to detail, flair for the beautiful, and personal creative presence add dimensions to learning and travel that are illuminating and fun!

SHOW NOTES:https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/travel-bronwyn-spilsbury

Does the term In Person Sales make you shutter? What if I told you there’s a way to implement IPS that feels natural and allows you to get to 6-figures and beyond? Today’s guest, Brittany Elise Anderson is a motherhood photographer and In-Person Service expert who is pioneering fresh new ways to bring in the extra income from full-service offers and finished products. If you’re even the tiniest bit curious what her secrets to sales are, then hit play!

About Brittany: Brittany Elise is pioneering the full-service studio movement teaching photographers how to implement services and finished products to build a business that not only serves their clients but fulfills their hearts. While giving the photographers themselves the tools they need to have a steady stream of income consistently booking clients who purchase tangible heirlooms. The key to this, she believes, is understanding just how busy motherhood is, how fast milestones pass by and how clients wish to hold onto every precious memory.

As an educator and co-founder and curator of The Photographers Framer, Brittany's mission is to help photographers provide high-quality tangible heirlooms for their clients that will keep them coming back year after year.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/ips-brittany-elise

Calling all women! Have you ever felt like the dream of being rich is for men? The stigma around wealthy women is still a very real thing in our society, and today fellow photographer and mastermind leader, Elena S Blair and I shed some light on why the “more money, more problems” belief is the biggest misconception. Take it from two wealthy women themselves: you have the right, and dare I say – duty – to break the cycle and step into your power as a money magician and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Hit play!

About Elena: Elena S Blair is an award winning lifestyle, family, and newborn photographer based in Seattle, WA. With over a decade of experience, Elena has photographed hundreds of families making her Seattle's most sought-after lifestyle portrait photographer. Her work and words have been featured on popular online publications like The Huffington Post, Click & Co Blog, Dear Photographer, and many more. Elena teaches with online platforms including CreativeLive, KelbyOne, and Click & Company, as well as independently reaching thousands of photographers each year. She is an established public speaker inspiring photographers all over the United States to make meaningful art and build profitable businesses.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/elena-s-blair

From marketing her business on Craigslist to being featured on Martha Stewart Weddings Best Of list, Abby Jiu is a true inspiration to all of us wherever we are in our journey. On this episode Abby and I dive into the intentional strategy that landed her many publications features and luxury weddings and we outline a few tactics you may not have heard before. Let her transformation story be your kick in the butt to get.your.work.seen and submit!

About Abby Jiu:

Abby Jiu began her career as a fine art wedding photographer in 2009. In the intervening years she’s been named a top wedding photographer by Martha Stewart Weddings, and her couple’s days have been featured in People, Brides, The Knot, Over the Moon, Washingtonian Weddings, and Inside Weddings.

Her signature high fashion aesthetic makes her one of the most highly sought after photographers around the world for discerning couples and wedding professionals alike.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/from-craigslist-to-martha-stewarts-best-of-list-the-power-of-getting-published

Do you feel like you have to be highly energetic and hyper-involved photographer to make your couples feel comfortable in front of the camera? Let’s be honest, it’s not for everyone. I personally struggled with this idea of who I needed to be as a photographer, so in this episode we’re taking a look at a fresh perspective on running a successful photography business. Anni Graham is on the podcast to share her experience in relieving that pressure to give a certain experience to her clients and how she played on her strengths to develop a highly-successful business and inspiring masterpiece portfolio that is truly unique to her.

About Anni Graham: Based in Bend, Oregon and traveling worldwide, Anni Graham is a master photographer shooting intimate weddings and elopements for the adventurous, travel-inclined couple.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/photography/how-to-play-on-your-strengths-as-a-photographer

If you’re a photographer who has ever thought about expanding your business to include other revenue streams (or maybe you haven’t even thought about it) then this episode is for you! Amy McVey is a marketing and branding expert and the brains behind the Erich McVey “empire” outside of photography. In this episode she gives us a behind the scenes peek into what their marketing strategies have looked like over the years, how their business has evolved to support their family in various ways, and how they avoid burnout so they can find enjoyment in what they do.

About Amy McVey:

Amy is the wife of Erich McVey, mom, and a branding and marketing expert who works behind the scenes in Erich’s highly successful photography business and more.

SHOW NOTES:https://darcybenincosa.com/marketing/wife-mom-and-marketing-expert-a-true-bts-of-erich-mcveys-photography-empire

We all have photographers we follow that continuously post photos that stop you in your scroll. For me, Lucy Muñoz is one of them. Today on the podcast, Lucy and I are chatting about how she makes sure she gets THE SHOT at every wedding. The one that sends chills down your spine, gets chosen for a magazine cover, and is a true masterpiece. If you want to take your work from mediocre to a scroll-stopping masterpiece, then tune into this episode.

About Lucy Munoz:

Lucy Munoz is a destination wedding and editorial photographer based in Southern California. She has been featured in Vogue, Brides, Elle, Instyle and many more. When she is not taking pictures, she loves spending time with her family, unapologetically beating them at board games.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/photography/how-to-get-the-shot-the-one-that-stops-you-in-your-scroll

Last year I did my first ½ million dollar launch, and when that same launch rolled around this year I become obsessed with one thing. Doing it all again. I had a major fear of failure.

Fast forward two months, we're now post-launch and the good news is I had an even bigger launch than last year, but it took some major up-leveling.

In this episode, I’m outlining everything I did to ensure a successful launch so that you can do these things too for your next launch! Dive right in to hear allll the juicy secrets behind my two half-million dollar launches.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/mindset/two-half-million-dollar-launches-and-the-secrets-behind-them

In this episode I'm diving into my experiences with Ayahuasca, what it is, and what I've learned from it. Please come to this episode with an open and curious mind, and not from a place of judgement. If you're wondering what Ayahuasca is, and how it could benefit you, then let's dive in!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/mindset/10-lessons-i-learned-from-ayahuasca

What was the best testimonial you’ve received? What was the worst? These highs and lows of your business are there to show you where you could refine and align your offers and pricing to serve people better. Today I’m sharing two case studies of two women who have gone through the Self Made Phase 1 Mastermind with me. Each woman faced challenges with pricing and offers before their mastermind experience, and we’re diving into each of their transformations to pinpoint the mindset shifts and strategies it took to get them to a place of abundance, worthiness, and high profitability! Hit play to learn how you could get there too.

About Julia Luckett: Julia Luckett is an award winning wedding photographer, with a background in fine art and documentary photography. Her work has been published in Vogue, Elle, National Geographic, and Equally Wed among others.

About Cate Batchelor: Cate Batchelor is a wedding and portrait photographer based in San Diego, California. Ten years ago she could be found snapping souvenir photos at the San Diego Zoo and today she lives out her dream of running a highly profitable photography business and jet-setting across the globe capturing high-end weddings.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/mindset/refining-and-aligning-your-business-to-charge-what-youre-worth

Have you ever heard of Curiosity Marketing? These psychology-driven marketing techniques are SO powerful in converting your audience into paying clients. I invited my Psychology Expert/Photographer friend, Jodi Anne onto the podcast to drop all the info on Curiosity Marketing and how YOU can use it to CONNECT and CONVERT without feeling salesy. Ready to dive in? Hit play.

About Jodi Anne:

Jodi is an accomplished international wedding photographer and a single-mom to three incredible future-gentlemen. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational & School Psychology and somehow juggles it all with candid humor and deep authenticity. She uses her years of studying Psychology and human behavior to ease her clients into her photoshoots with grace, and creates images that convey true emotion and connection due to her signature shooting method.

SHOW NOTES:https://darcybenincosa.com/marketing/instagram-psychology-expert-jodi-anne

Not experiencing the success you crave? We all have our blindspots, and in this episode I’m sharing the 11 most common blocks to success that my clients and students often face. Maybe this episode will give you the awareness and awakening you need to step into your power and reach your goals!

SHOW NOTES:https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/success-blocks

How many hours do you spend editing a wedding or shoot? Probably too many, right? In this episode of the Play It Brave Podcast, I present my very first threesome! Erich Mcvey and the geniuses behind Goodlight Presets joined me in a chat about all things film and digital in a world where creativity is queen! This team of top-notch photographers collectively created the presets to end all presets. Hit play to listen into our geeky gear conversation and learn how you can truly save yourself HOURS of computer work.

About Erich Mcvey x Goodlight Presets: Erich Mcvey is a world renowned wedding, portrait and editorial film photographer with a love for medium format cameras, natural light and incredible scenery.

Erich teamed up with Goodlight in pursuit of creating the most advanced filmic presets and profiles that had ever been made to give all types of photographers the ability to match a variety of classic film stocks at a very high level.

Cody Tolmen and Austin Trenholm have both been wedding photographers for more than 14 years, they understand the countless hours that can be spent editing. They knew there was a niche in the market for a preset that was more than just a click of a button. They wanted to recreate a preset and invent an entirely new process for color matching that would elevate their work and the industry leaders around them.

Cody and Austin created Goodlight Presets knowing that photographers needed an editing technique that gravitated towards perfect lighting conditions and produced beautiful imagery.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/erich-mcvey-goodlight-presets

Have you ever thought about reverse engineering your career around your life? Gone are the days of work work work to make more money. On today’s episode, my special guest Daniel Kim and I chat about how we can all design careers that fit our dream life instead of making our life fit into our careers. You may need to hear this one, friend… YOU are not defined by your career. YOU have the opportunity to live the life of your dreams and become abundant and wealthy in more ways than just one. Let’s get you there. Dive on in… it’s a good one.

About Daniel Kim:

Daniel is a photographer who lives with his wife and daughter in the desert of Arizona. He doesn't consider himself a wedding photographer. He considers himself a photographer, who happens to shoot weddings. After the shitshow of 2020 and how COVID-19 affected the wedding industry, Daniel was forced to step back and reflect on what he wanted for his life, and from there his life changed for the better. Now, he’s sharing his new perspective in hopes that it can change someone else’s life too.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/shaping-your-career-to-fit-your-life-daniel-kim

Are you ready to decrease your weekend workload, but also grow your business and bottom line? Our expert guest, Emily, of Anna Delores Photography joins me on this episode to help you reach your full earning potential by sharing her knowledge about hiring an associate team. If you want to be more than an employee in your business and step into the CEO role, then hit play to dive in!

About Emily Loeppke: Emily Loeppke is the founder of Anna Delores Photography and a wedding industry educator who empowers fellow creatives to grow their businesses (and profits) by hiring an associate team.

Anna Delores (named after Emily’s grandmothers) is now a team of five photographers serving over 50 couples every year for their California wedding celebrations.

Emily’s vision for other wedding photographers is excellence in both aesthetic details and business acumen in order to achieve a healthy, thriving entrepreneur life.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/marketing/growing-with-associates-emily-loeppke

It’s a new year full of fresh goals, dreams, and standards – and if you’re not dreaming of tripling your income this year, then put that on your vision board right now and hit play.

This episode is three parts. In part one I announce some big things coming in 2022 that you’ve all been waiting for. Part two is my standards for this year that I think you should implement in your life as well. And finally part three is the premiere of a new series called the Money Maker Series where I spotlight amazing creatives who are killing it and we talk about the strategies that brought them to where they are!

As the first episode of the Money Maker Series, I could not be more excited to introduce you to Summer Adams. Summer joined my Self Made Phase 1 Mastermind in the Spring of 2021 and since then she has tripled her income from $40k to $120 in less than a year! In this episode we chat about what shifts she made to get her on the path of wealth and abundance. YOU can take these 10 strategies and implement them in your business too! Listen in to learn how.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/new-year-new-standards-summer-adams

To end the 2021 season of the Play it Brave Podcast, my dear friend Paul Von Rieter interviews me about my life, brand, and my biggest takeaways from 2021.

Our stories of joy, healing, heartbreak, love, and adventure are what build personal brands. We’re in a world that is seeking connection in new ways (since we can’t just hang out in a pub and share a drink these days).

So to end Season 4 with a deeper telling of these stories of courage feels right. It’s the way we show up in our lives with courage over fear that makes me committed to living life each day, even when it’s hard...and 2021 has been hard. Has it for you? It’s been heavy and uncertain and interesting and surprising and heartbreaking and full of loss and full of deeper love too.

So dive into this week’s episode of Play it Brave with me!

If you’re a photographer in the wedding industry right now, then you might identify yourself as a Light & Airy or Dark & Moody style photographer. It’s easy to just lump ourselves into one or the other categories, but in this episode of the podcast, fellow film photographer, Patrick Le joins me in a conversation about the in-between of the two styles and how it’s important to understand light and master it for ALL lighting situations you might come across. Tune in for all the beautiful nuggets of wisdom.

About Patrick:

Patrick is a wedding photographer based in Southern California and is best known for his Apollo Workshops. His workshops are designed to not only teach photographers how to shoot film without the convenience of natural light, but to also open their minds to their own creative processes and how film fits within that.

SHOW NOTES:

Are you unsure of what to say on an initial call with a potential client? Maybe you’re afraid to even get on the phone with them… In this episode, Ben Hartley and I discuss the importance in communicating your value, and how to do that in a natural way that doesn’t feel sales-y so that you can book more high-end packages. Sound too good to be true? Tune in to hear an example of what a bad and a good sales call should sound like. This is a must-listen!

About Ben:

winning wedding photographer, podcast producer and photography educator. He is known for teaching other photographers how to market and grow their businesses through his coaching, courses, workshops, and podcast called The Six Figure Photography Podcast.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/marketing/sales-calls-101-ben-hartley

Do you believe you have to have the best planner connections in order to book luxury clients? Think again. This chat with luxury French photographer friend, Audrey Neracoulis, proves that an impeccable portfolio is your strongest asset when it comes to booking luxury, and she shares her secrets to getting there. From styled shoot, portfolio curation, and networking tips – this episode is chock full of invaluable information. Hit play to soak it all up.

About Audrey:

Based in the heart of Paris’ Marais district, Audrey is a film photographer known for her unmistakable fashion house-inspired aesthetic and distinctive, sophisticated, editorial, boudoir, and wedding photographic work.

In true Parisian style, she brings a certain "je ne sais quoi" to her images, which resonate with classic femininity and timeless elegance; capturing romance at its most chic.

Her vision - a delicate balance between fashion photography and cinematic documentary style - has made her a much sought-after partner in Paris’ creative industry, and a favorite among her wedding and elopement clients worldwide, print and online publications - Glamour, Vogue, Brides Magazine, and Style Me Pretty among them - and anyone who values elegant simplicity.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/portfolio-luxury-clients-audrey

If you’re anything like me and you work from home, or have just fallen into a rut of not getting ready everyday, do yourself a favor and tune into this episode. My good friend Alison Lumbatis joins me to chat about the power of getting dressed everyday. Feeling confident, empowered, and WORTHY not only affects how you show up into the world, but it affects the decisions you make too. Imagine if you looked and felt like a 6-figure CEO everyday… Let’s all take an oath to start playing it a little more brave everyday and hit play to learn some of Alison’s strategies for putting our best foot forward.

About Alison:

Alison Lumbatis is the founder and CEO of Get Your Pretty On and Outfit Formulas, the #1 personal styling membership site in the world. She's served over 40,000 women through the Outfit Formulas program and has attracted an online audience of millions to the GYPO blog. Her platform democratizes style for every body and budget and is a leading resource to help women rediscover their worthiness through wardrobe while making getting dressed the easiest thing they do all day.

An author and life coach, Alison is a thought leader in the personal style and confidence arenas. She's been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Redbook, Life & Style Magazine and on Good Morning Texas.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/feeling-good-alison-lumbatis

Calling all photographers! If you feel burnt out by shot lists, formulas, posing, and overall wedding redundancy, then tune into this raw and real conversation with Celebrity Photographer, John Dolan. We chat all about using a “less is more” approach to photographing weddings that allows for magic to unfold, and what photography clichés need to go so that we can get back to the real meaning behind the wedding photographs. This is truly one of my favorite episodes ever and I truly believe it could breathe new life into your work if you let it. Hit play.

About John:

John Dolan has woven a career of advertising, editorial and fine art photography. He is a recognized leader in contemporary wedding photography. Wedding clients include magazine art directors and editors, as well as celebrity clients Will Smith, Ben Stiller, Kate Bosworth, Bridget Moynahan, and most recently, Gwyneth Paltrow.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/wedding-photography-cliches-john-dolan

Have you ever wondered what it might be like to be an Interior Photographer? Today’s guest, Lindsey Salazar took her photography skills and put them to use photographing homes and has since been published in countless publications such as People, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, and more. She’s mastered the art of photographing interiors, and you can too! Tune in to learn her tricks of the trade and see if this is an avenue for you to explore.

About Lindsey:

Lindsay Salazar is an interior photographer based in Salt Lake City, Utah. Lindsay is known for creating images that feel warm and inviting. She loves being a photographer because it fills the creative part of her soul and puts a smile on her face. Lindsay’s passion for interior photography has led her to share her talent with other aspiring photographers through her mentoring program. Her work has been featured by People, The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, Domino, House Beautiful, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Martha Stewart, The Discovery Channel, and more.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/interior-photography-lindsay-salazar

In today’s episode I’m fan-girling a little bit as I interview one of my favorite artists, Fia Forsström. Fia is known for her inspirational lyrics that inspire and motivate spiritual journeys all around the world. Fia and I chat about what inspires her music, and her thoughts on the healing power of using your voice. Tune in to be enchanted by this beautiful soul.

About Fia:

Based in the countryside north of Stockholm, Fia Forsström is a folk pop singer/songwriter who with her inspirational lyrics, empowering songs, and catchy melodies quickly enchanted hearts all over world with the release of her solo debut ”Made of Stars” in 2016 which was crowdfunded together with her fans. Building a solid platform through social media and word of mouth, Fia took her place as one of the leading voices on the motivational music scene with ”Legacy of Light” (2017) and ”Waterfall of Wisdom” (2019), both of them recorded and released with the help of her loving listeners.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/your-voice-fia-forsstrom

If you’re into learning about Enneagrams, Archetypes, Myers Briggs, or other modes of identifying your personality, this episode is for you! Knowing your Spirit Animal is just another modality to getting to know yourself better, and my friend Fox is my go-to girl. She paired her intuition with her background in Veterinary Science to step into her super power of being an Animal Reader. In this episode I challenge you to put aside all the ways you’ve tried to define yourself and open yourself up with other ways of getting in touch with how you communicate, show up in the world, and characteristics that you might struggle with. Hit play to learn more about Soul Animal Readings and how it can help you navigate your life, career, relationships, and more.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/mindset/spirit-animal-fox-lantern

Have you ever craved time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Maybe you’re looking for ways to connect in deeper ways with your family or your creativity… This conversation with my friend Jaime Fenwick is filled with endless ideas of how you can tap into the art of slow living, whether it be a total lifestyle change or just a few small tweaks to your everyday habits. It’s time to step back and THRIVE in our everyday lives. Tune in to be inspired!

About Jaime:

Jaime Fenwick is a professional photographer and the founder of Bringing Inspiration Home, a business designed to help women thrive by tapping into their creative gifts through walking retreats, creative coaching, and photography. Jaime is based in the San Francisco Bay area with her husband and 3 children and is passionate about beauty, adventure, and finding rhythms that slow life down. Check out her Instagram and Website for updates on their family’s adventures, recent blog posts, and opportunities to tap into your creativity.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/slow-living-jaime-fenwick

Do you find yourself often in a place of guilt, shame, fear or anxiety? Maybe you suffer from perfectionism? In this episode I dive into all the ways that you can move out of that space and into one of abundance and love. It’s time to harness your thoughts and beliefs so that you can live the most beautiful life that you possibly can. Hit play to check in with where you’re at and how you can become a better version of yourself.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/heart-space

Today the tables are turned and my mastermind sister and master copywriter, Dawn Apuan is interviewing me about what mistakes business owners and entrepreneurs often make when it comes to their businesses and brands. When it comes to getting seen, making money, and living a beautiful life that you dream of, it’s really all about these 6 things that you may or may not be doing… Tune in to hear if you’re doing any of these things.

About Dawn:

Dawn Apuan is an expert copywriter and funnel strategist. Former pastor and non-profit Executive Director, her mission now is to help entrepreneurs create magnetic messaging that sells even their most expensive offers. She provides expert copy and done-for-you funnels to automate leads and sales, increasing your income and impact.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/6-business-brand-mistakes

Ask yourself this one question: If you could ask for one thing from the universe, what would it be? Today’s conversation with mastermind alum, Afrik Armando, is one of my favorites and we dive into all the ways to making your biggest dreams come true. We chat about what led him from a life with less than $1000 to his name to becoming a 6-figure CEO in less than a year. Spoiler alert: it’s not as hard as you think, and you can do it too! Hit play to find out how.

About Afrik Armando:

Afrik Armando is a well-respected photographer with an editorial style and a playful personality. His approach can be summarized as the boldness of Beyonce’s “Who runs the world" merging with the quirkiness of Taylor Swift's “Shake it off".

Afrik Armando's work has been featured in several high-reputed publications including the likes of; Vogue UK, New York Times, Martha Stewart Weddings, and more.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/afrik-armando-transformation-story

If you feel stuck in the budget wedding hamster wheel, then this episode is for you! In this Hot Seat episode, I give Lauren Galla-Rini some simple tips that can help her transform her brand, vendor relationships, and portfolio to attract the luxury clientele that she dreams of. Say goodbye to burlap and say hello to Vogue-worthy details! Hit play to find out how.

About Lauren Galla-Rini:

Lauren Galla-Rini has been in the event industry for more then 10 years. After 5 years of fully submerging herself in it, she had a burning desire to start her own company called My Beloved Events. Her wedding and event planning company focuses on bringing an elegant timeless design with exceptional communication and planning services to her clients.

She has a passion for traveling and family and incorporates that into her business as it's the foundation of her love for people and connection.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/luxury-market-lauren-galla-rini

Today we’re diving into the ever-popular question about how to get booked for destination weddings without having a destination wedding portfolio. In this Hot Seat episode with fellow-photographer, Juliana Cole, I’m giving you the ultimate action plan that will have you waking up to a view of the Eiffel Tower in no time. Hit play to hear all the details! About Juliana Cole:

Juliana Cole is a NY-based photographer, documenting weddings and portraits for couples in love. Juliana has a BA of creative writing, and uses that as a tool to tell better stories for the people she photographs. She lives in Upstate NY with her husband and dog-child, Whiskey, and spends her free time throwing clay on her outdoor wheel, exploring Upstate NY, and dreaming up future travel plans. SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/hot-seats-destination-weddings-juliana-cole

Do you know who your competition is? Does their work or brand look similar to yours from afar? It’s time to build a strong brand foundation and start standing out from the crowd. In this episode, branding genius, coach, and fellow-photographer, Eden Strader joins me to chat about how she set herself apart and how you can too with some simple exercises and a bit of strategy! Tune in to learn more.

About Eden Strader:

Eden is a six figure photographer turned business coach, leading hundreds of creative entrepreneurs in building a life of artistic growth, wealth, and personal power. In a nutshell? Eden helps creative humans discover their unique flavor of magic to create the life of their dreams.

SHOW NOTES:https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/branding-eden-strader/

The title of this podcast “Play It Brave” couldn’t be more fitting today as I share my insights on how most of us are giving away our power to others, how to stop this vicious cycle, and what amazing life we can create when we’re in a place of empowerment. (hint: it involves more money & freedom) If you feel disempowered in your business, your relationships, or life in general, this episode is for you! Tune in.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/stop-giving-away-your-power

As Europe begins to open its doors again, it may be a little while longer until you’re back in France, grabbing a warm baguette on your way to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Seine. And that’s okay! This episode isn’t to be missed–no matter when you’re headed back across the Atlantic, Yanique Frances and I are here to share how you can sprinkle a little French woman chic into your every day.

Hint: It’s more than just red lipstick… It’s a whole mood. Hit play to tune in.

About Yanique:

Yanique is a former New Yorker turned Parisian city dweller and street-wise wedding planner, living the joie de vivre lifestyle that most can only dream about. Yanique is the woman behind the internet’s insider guide to Paris, My Parisian Life, and the sought-after destination wedding planning service, Elope In Paris. Take it from me–Yanique is one to watch when the time comes to plan your first overseas trip after the pandemic. You can count on Yanique to curate the chicest list of must-visit spots in Paris no matter the season. Not only that, you can rely on her knowledge and experience with the bureaucracy of the city: Yanique’s worked for French universities and e-commerce companies, not to mention she welcomed her first child on French soil. Before enrolling in school, her son was enrolled in a local daycare–a crèche.

Despite my big move to Paris when I was just twenty years old, Yanique has had fourteen years of living and breathing The City of Lights to reflect on in today’s chat (not that it’s a competition!).

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/paris-living-yanique-frances

If you’ve been putting off creating passive income for yourself, this episode is for YOU! Get the ultimate kick in the butt and tips for launching your passive income streams from the passive income expert, Lisa Johnson who has been featured in Forbes, The Guardian, and other international publications for her multi-million dollar strategies and insight. Hit play to dive in and get your healthy dose of motivation to finally launch that passive income idea you’ve been putting off for far too long.

About Lisa Johnson:

Lisa’s social media following shot up to more than 50,000 after she had a $2m launch in a week. Her signature technique, called The CASsH System, helps her clients double their income but cut their work hours in half. She developed it after two decades of experience in finance, law and the entertainment industry which helps her support her clients in every phase of business development.

Lisa has been featured on the BBC and in international publications, including The Guardian, Red, Psychologies, Metro and Huffington Post. A recent Forbes feature on her was viewed more than 250,000 times in less than a week.

She is scheduled to perform a TedX Talk in October 2021 on using adversity to fuel success.

She also speaks on stages across the globe. Lisa lives in Bedfordshire, UK, with her husband and 9 year old twin sons.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/passive-income-lisa-johnson

Do your photoshoots feel cookie cutter? Do you ever have an unhappy client? Are you just looking to find better ways to connect with and pose your clients? Today’s guest is a psychology expert and talented photographer, Jodi Anne, who has some really helpful methods backed by psychology to create a better client experience full of trust, communication, and beautiful photos that don’t feel posed. Tune in to hear all her secrets!

About Jodi Anne:

Jodi is an accomplished international wedding photographer and a single-mom to three incredible future-gentlemen. She holds a Master's degree in Educational & School Psychology and somehow juggles it all with candid humor and deep authenticity. She uses her years of studying Psychology and human behavior to ease her clients into her photoshoots with grace, and creates images that convey true emotion and connection due to her signature shooting method.

She squeezes business calls in between double-headers. She meets with florists and designers after school drop-off and dentist appointments. All the while she also transforms wedding details and memories into heirloom images that serve as the building blocks to her client's dawning legacies. Her everyday life presents the chaos that serves as her very own wedding-day bootcamp. She thrives in the frenzy and feeds off of the energy... which allows her to expertly navigate bustling wedding days with precision and laughter.

Jodi has taken her love of composition and intertwined it with a pervasive study of human expression in order to build a business that has her clients singing her praises and a body of work that speaks even higher volumes. Her work is calculated and precise yet also... effortless, calm and alluring.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/mindset/psychology-clients-jodi-anne/

Do you want to free, organic traffic to your website and bring in quality leads on a daily basis? Then SEO could be the key to your success, and this episode with my SEO Expert and good friend, Ryan Moreno, gives some quick tips and strategies for achieving some quick wins right away. Dive in for all the invaluable tips and strategies!

About Ryan Moreno: Ryan Moreno is the SEO Strategist and Expert behind Moreno Collective, and my personal go-to for anything SEO related. He is the reason behind my ever-growing website traffic, leads, and Google ranking, and for that, I can’t thank him enough.

Ryan is a former photographer turned ShowIt website designer who quickly learned the power of SEO for businesses, especially creative businesses like mine in the wedding industry where SEO was not being utilized. Ryan has become what I consider the industry’s biggest expert on the subject, and is sharing a wealth of knowledge in this episode that you can’t miss.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/seo-ryan-moreno

Today’s guest came from cleaning toilets to making 7-figures as a Women’s Wealth Advocate. Merel Kriegsman was my business mentor last year, and she has such golden nuggets of wisdom about what wealth truly means and how to go from a place of unfulfilled potential to one of wealth and fulfillment. She dives into how you can harness your creativity and courage to become the wealthiest version of yourself. If you’re struggling with the idea of being or becoming a wealthy woman, this one’s for you. Hit play!

About Merel Kriegsman:

Women's Wealth Advocate and Business Mentor Merel Kriegsman is the CEO and founder of Merel Kriegsman Media - a company that has helped hundreds of women globally ascend into SELF-FUNDED WEALTH.

She's dedicated to helping women break the chains of generational scarcity, and step into becoming unapologetic female leaders who fearlessly demand what they're worth - and get it.

Her insights on women & wealth have been featured on CBS news, ABC news and in publications like Forbes, Fast Company and Good Housekeeping, and she was recently quoted in an article in Entrepreneur entitled, "7 Tips to Hit 7 Figures in 2020 and Beyond", alongside Sir Richard Branson.

SHOW NOTES:

In this episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I’m talking all things investing with Laura Murray–and not the Wall Street kind.

Laura Murray is a sought-after photographer with the best of both worlds, brain-wise: she was trained in mathematics prior to photography with an insatiable desire to live a creative life. In her words? “There were always two sides to me – a technical and a creative – and I love how photography combines the two. It’s the perfect blend.”

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/investing-laura-murray/

Do you have copycats? People who always seem to be following in your footsteps, taking your ideas, and mimicking your style? On this Hot Seats episode, I coach well-established photographer, Jenny King through her copycat woes and share my one big strategy for keeping the copycats at bay. Hit play to tune in.

About Jenny King:

Jenny is a self taught photographer who started her business at the age of 30 with a newborn. Jenny was a bartender for nearly a decade, went corporate in banking then fell in love with the wedding world after her own wedding experience. In the last five years she has grown her business specializing in weddings, has since created an associate wedding company & is currently in the process of launching a third brand specializing in racy boudoir. She has shot in 3 different countries & has been recognized as the best wedding photographer in her area.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/marketing/being-copied-jenny-king

Have you ever wanted to “pick the brain” of a celebrity wedding photographer? It’s your lucky day! In this deep dive conversation, Joel and I chat about all things traveling (and how to get into other countries with all your gear), the move towards digital and his gear of choice, and finally, what his client communication looks like from the first call to the final delivery. You don’t want to miss this episode! Joel even shares some behind the scenes stories from his times shooting alongside his talented husband, Jose Villa, for celebrity clients like Justin Bieber & Hailey Baldwin and Nick Jonas & Priyanka Chopra. Hit play to tune in!

About Joel Serrato:

Joel Serrato’s artistry in wedding photography is built upon a strong foundation of capturing pure moments of emotion, innocence, laughter and love. Specializing in huge, complex weddings and seeking clients who are crazy in love and aren’t afraid to cry, the Harper’s Bazaar published photographer’s nuptials of note include Pat Benatar, Tamera Mowry, Elle Fowler and Adam Housley, to name just a few.

Show Notes: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/joel-serrato-traveling-gear-client-communication

It’s pretty rare to find yourself in a scenario where no one else is doing the same thing you are. If you look around and find yourself flying solo with no one else throwing metaphorical elbows to get ahead? Consider yourself ahead of the game. You identified a need before anybody else–now’s the time to meet it.

Albert Roig, my guest on today’s episode of the Play It Brave podcast, found himself in that very position when he established Carmencita Film Lab. Before Carmencita came on the scene, a lot of European photographers were sending their film across the sea to America. Their film was forced to make a lengthy, international journey simply because there weren’t options for high-quality, personalized film scanning in Europe. As a film lover who studied the ins and outs of film scanning and developing from Jon Canlas of The Find Lab, Albert realized he had the power to meet a growing demand for Europe’s fine art photography movement. After joining forces with a friend who happened to own a film scanner, Carmencita was off to the races. Need, meet solution.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/carmencita-film-lab/

During the peak of the pandemic, when just about everything was taken from us, we were given one opportunity:

We were given the opportunity to see the world differently. To retrain our brains to see beauty in repetition. To see things in a new way. To do more with less. To create with reckless abandon.

And today’s guest on the Play It Brave podcast? She did just that.

Céline Chhuon is a sister of mine–of the “chosen family” variety. She lives the dream as a full time photographer and creative living in Paris, The City of Lights. When France went into lockdown for months last spring and her calendar of bookings was shot, she decided to challenge her boredom in order to rise above it. Her book that resulted from those 54 days, Home Is Where The Art Is, is Céline’s manifesto to the radical act of creation. Listen to today’s episode to hear the story.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/self-portraiture-celine-chhuon

When’s the last time you collaborated with nature? Can you remember a time when you really, really engaged with the earth?

Today's guest is Shellie Pomeroy, the owner of Silk & Willow and maker of the finest silk ribbons that have found a home in the hands of the worlds greatest floral designers, stationers and photographers. Shellie has struck a chord with her customers with her values-driven business model, and I for one, think we could all learn a thing or two about becoming more heart-centered in our businesses.

Listen to today’s episode as we talk about inspiration, clever curation, and the good old-fashioned power of pounding the pavement to build your creative enterprise from scratch.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/heartful-business-silk-willow

Join my copywriter, Olivia Carson and I as we lay all our cards out on the table. We’re talking about our workflow, our tips to find a copywriter you can trust, and some good old-fashioned words of wisdom to boot. Not only is outsourcing a radical act of self love, it’s the only way to get your business to scale to dreamy, dreamy heights. Tune in to hear all the juicy details!

About Olivia: Olivia Carson is a photographer turned wordsmith for women with creative callings. She’s the wizard with words behind beloved brands and a savvy scribe with multiple seven figure launches under her belt. As the creative-in-chief behind her wedding and portrait photography business for over a decade, Olivia knows what it’s like to have your days stuffed to the brim with editing, client calls, emails, and overanalyzing your Instagram grid. When you’re ready to get back to the work that sets your soul on fire, something in your business has gotta give. Sneaky little tip: That’s where Olivia comes in. Today, she’s a sought-after copywriter for creatives who guides artists, makers, doers, and dreamers to find a voice as divine and exceptional as the work they share with the world. Through her bespoke approach with words and heart-driven strategy (with a dash of marketing magic), Olivia has supported lucrative launches and brand badassery for creative clients like D’Arcy Benincosa, Gedina, and If I Made. When she’s not getting her clients published in Martha Stewart Weddings, her expertise has landed her among talented rosters of educators sharing their knowledge with students of Curate Well Co. and The Hybrid Collective.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/copywriter-olivia-carson

Few things will get you to the “Should I quit?” phase of entrepreneurship faster than trying to replicate someone else’s journey. Have you ever compared your "trudge through the mud" journey, to your competition's apparent, "jet-set to the top?" It's time to see the full picture, and get into alignment so that you can reach your fullest potential. Tune into my conversation with Emma Natter to learn how to harness your passion to achieve financial stability and success!

About Emma Natter: Emma Natter is a business coach and the founder of The Aesthetic Way, the unshakeable venture to unify the creative self with entrepreneurship. She helps people discover their own sovereignty, find their voice, create their life's work, and get paid well throughout the process. Emma has worked as a stylist, floral designer, wedding planner, styling surface maker, antique curator, art director, writer, and has an MFA in creative writing.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/alignment-emma-natter

Let’s be honest with each other… How many of us TRULY enjoy writing email newsletters? Most of us are afraid of hearing crickets after we hit send, so we put off sending anything to our subscribers who are really truly waiting to hear from us. It’s a vicious cycle we all need to break, so let’s break it today! In this episode of the Play It Brave podcast, we’re talking all things savvy subject lines and noteworthy newsletters with Laura Belgray (my copywriting idol). From subject line do’s and don’ts, to the stories our people are actually HUNGRY for… It’s all waiting on the other side of that play button. What are you waiting for?!

About Laura: Laura Belgray, founder of Talking Shrimp and co-creator of The Copy Cure, is a copywriting expert who helps entrepreneurs find the perfect words to express and sell what they do in a way that gets them paid to be themselves. Through her work with hundreds of clients (including online biggies like Marie Forleo and Amy Porterfield) she’s seen firsthand that putting “you” into your copy and all through your business is pure magic for getting people to love you up, share your ideas, and happily click your Buy button.

In addition to online types, Laura’s list of clients and credits include NBC, Bravo, HBO, TBS, Fandango, and many, many more. So if you watch TV -- and don’t skip the commercials -- you've probably seen her words on air.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/marketing/email-copy-laura-belgray

We’re back with part two of my honest conversation with Erich McVey, the celebrity photographer that everyone is curious about! In this episode we cover the hot topic of Erich’s gear lineup, his workflow, posing, and we even dive into what he’s NOT doing to stay afloat in Covid times. Tune in to hear all about it.

About Erich: Erich is a wedding, portrait and editorial film photographer with a love for medium format cameras, natural light and incredible scenery.

Using an approach that combines documentary and fine art styles, Erich captures beautiful, honest, and timeless images.

Named by Harper’s Bazaar and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the best wedding photographers in the world, and twice selected as film photographer of the year by Belle Lumiere Magazine, Erich’s work has been featured in top wedding publications; including Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine, Brides Magazine, Magnolia Rouge Magazine, Flutter Magazine, Pacific Weddings Magazine, Weddings Unveiled Magazine, Bella Lumiere Magazine, Style Me Pretty, Once Wed, Snippet & Ink, Ruffled, and The Knot, as well as the LA Times, and Design Sponge.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/erich-mcvey-part-ii

In this two part series, I’m chatting with beloved photographer, Erich McVey about all things photography. We’re diving into all of your burning questions about how he got to where he is now, how and why he chose film, and what marketing strategies allowed him to shoot all over the world. Hit play to dive into part one of this honest conversation.

About Erich:

Erich is a wedding, portrait and editorial film photographer with a love for medium format cameras, natural light and incredible scenery.

Using an approach that combines documentary and fine art styles, Erich captures beautiful, honest, and timeless images.

Named by Harper’s Bazaar and Martha Stewart Weddings as one of the best wedding photographers in the world, and twice selected as film photographer of the year by Belle Lumiere Magazine, Erich’s work has been featured in top wedding publications; including Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine, Brides Magazine, Magnolia Rouge Magazine, Flutter Magazine, Pacific Weddings Magazine, Weddings Unveiled Magazine, Bella Lumiere Magazine, Style Me Pretty, Once Wed, Snippet & Ink, Ruffled, and The Knot, as well as the LA Times, and Design Sponge.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/erich-mcvey-part-i

In celebration of Black History Month, we are giving a big standing ovation to Black creatives of past and present. So much of Black art was not given a space to flourish, so in this episode, photographer-extraordinaire, Alicia Rinka shares some of her favorite Black artists, poets, makers and creative content that is worthy of so much celebration and honor this month – and every other day of the year. Hit play to learn and discover the beauty that is born from Black history and culture.

About Alicia: Alicia Rinka is the Owner and Lead Creative of her professional photography team. She graduated from Indiana University with a degree in communications. Her love of photography was complemented by a keen eye for details and an adoration for the world of fashion. Her work, which has been featured in Brides and various other publications, boasts a sense of fine art style with a modern editorial aesthetic.

It's important to Alicia Rinka and her team to be welcoming to all walks of life.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/black-history-alicia-rinka/

In my effort to become more inclusive in my life and business, I reached out to Youtube star Celeste Monsour to educate me on non-binary they/them pronouns. I wanted to let you in on this conversation because Celeste’s wealth of knowledge and experiences is so worth being shared so that we can all be better at making EVERYONE feel comfortable and accepted. Hit play if you’re also open-minded and striving to be more inclusive!

About Celeste:

Celeste Monsour is a trans YouTuber and activist who makes personal and educational videos about their experiences as an aromantic asexual non-binary person. Through telling their own story and documenting their transition, Celeste aims to serve as a resource for others on similar paths and for allies simply seeking to understand. Off camera, Celeste is an insatiably curious multi-creative who has been a writer, blog editor, podcaster, photographer, cosplayer, web designer, and performer, currently on a journey to figure out what's next.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/pronouns-celeste-monsour

On today’s episode of the Play It Brave podcast, my guest knows exactly what it means to live your truth and manifest the life of your dreams.

Sandra Chuma is an entrepreneur, speaker, coach, podcast host, and award-winning documentary filmmaker. She believes that our greatest responsibility is to share our stories so we can inspire and create possibility for others.

Raised in a tiny mud hut in Zimbabwe with no running water or electricity, Sandra has never been one to let circumstances define her. She went on to build two successful companies and advise major global brands.

Despite her professional success, she knew she wasn’t walking in her purpose. Sandra went back to school in 2015 to get a master’s degree in journalism, storytelling, and documentary filmmaking from Columbia University.

Through the power of story, and leveraging her experience as a management consultant, Sandra has made it her mission to help others create the best version of themselves. She builds brands focused on providing inspiration and community.

Sandra is the founder of Ndini, which is a platform focused on telling the stories of inspiring, trailblazing African women. Sandra is also the founder of Worthy and the Woman on Fire Summit.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/live-the-life-of-your-dreams-sandra-chuma

What started as Bachelorette star, Mike Johnson’s interview about finding love turned into a vulnerable conversation about Self Love and Intimacy and how those two combined are super powers that can change the state of America. While that may sound foolish on the surface, I promise you this episode will challenge you to invite more self love and intimacy into your life so that you can truly Play It Brave and speak out for what you believe in.

About Mike Johnson: Surviving Reality-TV fame, a deployment with the military and countless challenges throughout his life and career, Mike now writes and speaks on how the ability to overcome stems from the power within. With his focus on self-love, the breakout star from ABC's The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise is transforming audiences by showcasing his global influence through brave storytelling and big smiles.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/state-of-america-bachelorette-star-mike-johnson/

Call me a human fortune cookie, but I predict that 2021 truly can be your year… I know that’s taboo to say after the year we just had, but Coronavirus or not – it’s up to you to make it great. In this episode I’m predicting the top 10 things that will turn 2021 into your most fruitful year. Some of these things will require radical change, but I always say that the same habits bring the same results. So are you ready to make some major changes in your life and show 2021 who’s boss? Hit play to dive in!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/2021-predictions/

Do you find yourself walking through life with low energy, productivity or clarity? You might be experiencing brain fog (which is a real thing, by the way). In fact, most of us (especially entrepreneurs) experience brain fog to some degree. The truth is, when we take the time to clear the brain fog, we can become so much more productive and spend less time working! (#dreamlife) On today’s episode, Tanessa Shears, a health consultant for entrepreneurs is sharing her biggest tips for optimizing your performance so you can produce more meaningful, impactful work output to scale your business faster! Hit play to get ALLLL the amazing info!

About Tanessa Shears:

Tanessa is a health consultant that helps entrepreneurs scale their business by optimizing their health, focus & productivity with science and biohacking. Her passion is working closely with business owners to implement effective sleep, nutrition, work flow and stress management strategies to eliminate brain fog and help them get more done in 8 hours than most people can get done in a week. She does this by optimizing the performance capacity of your body & brain so you can produce more meaningful, impactful work output and scale your business faster.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/biohacking-tips-tanessa-shears

In a world obsessed with change, it is my deepest belief that it is our courage and bravery to love ourselves, our bodies, and who we are inside and out that allows us to live our best life. If you’re like me and have experienced a lifetime of yo-yo diets, starving, bingeing, and talking negatively about your body, then I invite you to join me and listen in on my conversation with fellow fluffy girl, Ebbi Nicole. We’re sharing our biggest tips for becoming more body positive and advocating for a stop to body shaming in our culture. This one’s especially for you ladies! We all have those negative thoughts about our bodies, whether big or small. Join the conversation and hit play!

About Ebbi Nicole:

Ebbi Nicole is the owner of Fluffy GRL Movement, an education and entertainment brand that amplifies the plus and curvy voice through innovative events, workshops, and story sharing. Despite many NOs, Ebbi has used a few YESes to challenge the status quo about how plus people are viewed in the media and society.

With over 10 years of experience in storytelling and body advocacy, Ebbi has leveraged partnerships with industry giants like Lane Bryant and Universal Standard to spark important conversations amongst thousands of women and about inclusivity, self acceptance and reclaiming your power in a body negative society.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/mindset/body-shaming-ebbi-nicole/

Raise your hand if you have a fear of selling… I get it! None of us want to feel or sound like used car salesman. We’ve all felt the pressure of being sold to, and it’s icky and uncomfortable. In today’s hot seat, Rachel Huban reveals her fear of shaming her audience’s pain points when trying to sell her services, and I give her some really great advice for overcoming fear, and rising above the shameless selling. Let’s dive in and solve this once and for all, shall we?!

About Rachel Huban: Rachel is a plant-based pregnancy coach who supports women to have a healthy, well-planned, plant-based pregnancy. She's all about empowering women to feel confident and excited about the entire pregnancy journey, including the 4th trimester. Certified as a Nutritional Therapist with many years of experience in health stores, Rachel is passionate about whole food plant-based nutrition and mindset coaching.

Rachel has a desire to share her expertise and plant-based pregnancy plans with her ideal clients, but has a fear of shaming pain points while trying to sell her services.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/sell-without-shame-rachel-huban/

Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt afraid of raising your prices in fear that you’ll hear crickets…. hand raised here The number one question I get DAILY is “How do I know when it’s time to raise my prices and how do I do it?” Pricing can be tricky, but do you know what can be trickier? Your mind. Our mind talks us out of a lot of things and makes excuses for not following our intuition. In this episode, Allison Parker and I talk through her fear of raising her prices, and what the root cause of that fear is. Tune in if you relate even a tiiiiny bit, because I promise you, we all do this in some form or another and it’s a time we break the cycle, am I right? Hit play!

About Allison Parker: Allison Parker is a wedding photographer based in Thunder Bay, ON, Canada. She began her photography journey in 2011 after being inspired by the natural beauty of her home in Northern Ontario. Since photographing her first wedding in 2014, Allison has had the pleasure of photographing couples in the GTA, London, Minnesota, and Arizona. When she isn’t photographing weddings, Allison teaches others how to master their cameras to create images they love.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/when-to-raise-your-prices/

Have you ever had a time when you felt uncomfortable, even if you couldn’t explain it? In this episode I'm talking all about that fear and what to do with it. I’m not talking about the fear of launching something or the fear of putting your work out into the world. The fear I’m thinking of is the kind that can be like a little tap-tap-tapping on your heart in tense situations. That tap-tapping? It’s your intuition. And your intuition is your superpower, especially when it comes to keeping you safe in sticky circumstances. Hit play to become aware of some signals that you might encounter that tell you to be wary of someone, and then join me in my mission to SPEAK UP and STAND UP for violence and abuse against women once and for all. Let's save some lives, shall we?

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/the-gift-of-fear/

Have you ever invested in business education that ended up being a huge waste of money? I know I have! In today’s hot seat episode, Vanessa Lust asks the all-to-common question: “How do I know what education is worth investing in?” Over the years I’ve developed a system that ensures I’m never wasting my hard-earned moolah, and it’s about time I shared it with you. The world of online education is growing on the daily, and getting more and more confusing, so tune in to hear how I make investment decisions EASILY and with major return on my investments.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/money/investing-in-education-vanessa-lust

After the shit show 2020 has been, I bet you’re ready to step into the best year of your life… am I right?! I want that for you too, and that’s why I want to make sure you have the right tools (and people) by your side to make that happen. If you’re willing to let yourself DREAM BIG, then this one goes out to you, my dear. It’s time to stop treading water, and strut down the beach in your bikini without a care in the world. It’s time to turn your hustle and grind into a 6 or 7-figure income. If you’re wondering what can get you to that place, I bet you can guess based on the title of this episode, that the answer is “a Mastermind,” but there’s so much more to it than you might think.

In this episode, my friend Julie Solomon, a chart-topping podcast host (who I met because of a mastermind) and I discuss why you should join a mastermind, and how to find the perfect one for YOU that will give you the greatest return on your investment. Hit play to find out WHY a mastermind can change your life and business. I promise this is a must-listen!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/business-mastermind-julie-solomon/

Cultivating a high vibration in your home full of love, joy, gratitude, freedom, wealth, and abundance is the key to manifesting everything you’re chasing in this life. Your environment plays a huge role in your health and mindset, as much as we like to think a sink full of dishes isn’t affecting our mood.

We carry a lot of doom and gloom from the outside world when we cross the threshold of our home. Home should be our own little sanctuary, an oasis from the tumultuous world- don’t you think? Hit play for my best tips to cleansing my home for positivity and abundance.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/mindset/cleanse-home-vibration/

“I’m always so stressed about getting all the “must haves” at a wedding that I don’t have the brain space to be creative and try new things!” –– Can you relate?!

It’s time to get out of your head and into your heart. In this special Hot Seats episode, I’m coaching Emily of Anna Delores Photography on how to make space for creativity on wedding days so she can invite her inner artist to the table. Listen in to hear what tips and strategies I share with Emily to tap into her creativity while still serving her clients to the fullest!

About Emily Reiter:

Emily Reiter is the founder of Anna Delores Photography and a wedding photography educator who empowers fellow creatives to grow their businesses with elevated styling skills, connections with wedding vendors and publications, and entrepreneurial savvy to maximize long-term success.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/creativity-emily-anna-delores/

Call me crazy, but back in 2018 when I got the keys to my 100 year old home and walked over the threshold, I immediately felt that something was off. Come to find out, my intuition was right, and my house was haunted by several ghosts. In this episode, I’m telling ghost stories and sharing what I’ve learned from living in a haunted house. Believe it or not, the energy of your home can affect other areas of your life, so hit play if you’re even a little bit curious who I’ve been living with for the past 2 years, and what I’ve done to infuse love and joy back into my home.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/haunted-house/

When you think of who your business is serving, do you think of an individual person or a few different types of people? If the answer is a few, there’s a chance you haven’t niched down enough. When you’re trying to serve everyone, then you’re speaking to no one. It’s time to refine in order to truly thrive. Ale Saldaña has this exact problem in her business, and in this episode I coached her on how to niche without giving up the different facets of her business that she loves. Hit play to listen in on the advice.

About Ale Saldaña: Ale Saldaña has been passionate about photography since the age of 15. With a degree in Art History, she brings a recalibrated approach to her work. From a portrait photographer, to a branding and event photographer, Ale has done it all, but it’s time for her to niche down to create a strong brand and solve problems so she can run a sustainable and profitable business. Let’s dive into her biggest challenges!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/name-your-niche-ale-saldana/

I recently polled my Instagram audience about why they find selling hard--maybe you’ll relate to some of their answers:

“I’m afraid my dream client will turn down my offer.”

“I don’t know the right words to say to express my worth. And worse than that, what if they laugh or act offended when they hear my pricing?”

“I’m worried that my potential clients (and other people) will think that I am overvaluing myself--like who am I to be charging these prices?!”

And my FAVORITE:

“If I wouldn’t pay a certain price for something--why would anyone else???”

I’ve listened to all your concerns, and here’s what I have to say: it’s time to KICK THEM IN THE ASS AND OUT OF YOUR HEAD!

Think of selling like an art. It’s as important as learning to wield your camera or create authentic art. Selling (or what I like to call, serving) helps you go from a STARVING ARTIST to a WEALTHY ARTIST.

It’s another Play It Brave Tuesday, and we’re talking all things selling with a true master, Anthony Sarandrea. Anthony runs a team that serves over a million customers every year, and he has a few tricks up his sleeve that will get YOU in front of your dream clients and customers in no time. Tune in to hear what easy ways to boost your client and customer base!

SHOW NOTES: http://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/sales-anthony-sarandrea/

Are destination weddings a thing of the past? Have you found a way to continue building your destination wedding business, even when international travel is at a halt? Molly McCauley joined me in the hot seat to discuss her frustration with not being able to create the content that will grow her destination photography business. I’m sure many of you can relate! Tune in to hear what big ideas and solutions we come up with.

About Molly McCauley: Molly McCauley is a sought-after destination wedding photographer based in Southern California and New England. Her approach is to capture her clients and their guests in the most authentic way while allowing them to live in the moment on the wedding day. With a Masters in Fine Art Photography and a background in design and fashion, her caught-in-the-moment photography style with an editorial edge creates photos that you can feel and that stand the test of time.

While destination weddings around the world are her passion, Molly wants to ensure that the world is just as beautiful for future generations. That’s why for every destination traveled to, she donates to offset her carbon footprint.

Molly has been working diligently to build and grow her destination wedding photography portfolio since starting in my group coaching program in the fall of 2019, formerly known as Ninja Bootcamp. When the pandemic hit and travel was banned, her marketing campaign plans were halted with it. She recently applied to be in the hot seat to get a second eyes on her problem, and gain a new perspective on how she can still reach her business goals.

See her question for me below and hit play to hear my answer!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/redefining-destination-pandemic-molly-mccauley/

Do you have a million ideas, but don’t know where to start when it comes to taking action? You're not alone. Catie Ann is just one of SO many creative entrepreneurs like you who have what I call “Implementation Paralysis” and I have just the thing to get you (and her) unstuck and on your way to diversifying your business and passions! Hit play to hear what money-making ideas I shared and how I coached her through this roadblock.

About Catie Ann:

With 12 years of wedding industry experience, Catie Ann captures weddings and events in Dallas, Texas that have been featured in national and international publications, including Southern Bride, The Knot, Style Me Pretty, and more. She is striving to combine her photography with her industry experience, to become a trusted resource for couples getting married in the form of a podcast. Besides her wedding work, she is passionate about capturing family memories, and wants to host in-person workshops teaching parents to photograph their children. Let’s dive into some of Catie Ann’s biggest challenges and questions, shall we?

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/prioritize-passions-catie-ann/

Are you struggling to create luxury work in these Covid times? You’re not alone! In fact, I had Erica Estrada join me in the hot seat for today’s episode, and we walk through some of her biggest frustrations that are keeping her from reaching the luxury clients of her dreams. Here’s the truth: You could be ONE big idea or connection away from a big breakthrough, so let’s say f*ck Covid and show the world what you’re made of. Hit play to hear what I mean...

About Erica Estrada:

Erica Estrada is a luxury wedding planning and designer creating curated experiences for each of her clients. She has quickly become recognized by other industry leaders for her professionalism, poise, and beautiful designs. Her clients continue to praise her for her keen attention to detail and organization. Erica's work has been highlighted in many publications, including BRIDES and Martha Stewart Weddings to name a few.

Although Erica’s talent, hustle, and professionalism is unmistakable, Covid and her limited network are holding her back from reaching that luxury status. Hit play to hear how I help her solve them!

If you’re feeling like you’re stuck and you just can’t reach your career goals, take a lesson from this episode with KT Merry! Throughout our chat, KT gives her backstory and journey to where she is now – spoiler alert: It was FAR from luxury! From slinging saddles to capturing high profile love stories, KT’s journey is proof of building an empire from the ground up, and evolving along the way. Listen in as she shares her secrets for building a successful business and serving your clients (luxury or not) in the best way possible.

About KT Merry:

Consistently celebrated as a top wedding photographer and featured in publications like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar and Martha Stewart Weddings , KT Merry shoots exclusive destination weddings and editorials across the globe (Not to mention, she was the talented photographer who shot Kate Upton and Justin Verlander’s Tuscan wedding). A passionate conservationist, entrepreneur, adventurer, and lifelong learner, KT also mentors other photographers via public speaking, private coaching, and her signature online masterclass, The Abundance Plan.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/celebrity-wedding-photographer-kt-merry/

Photography is so much more than just taking pictures with a camera. There’s a whole other step in the process that results in a completed image, and sometimes this step can be overlooked. Editing plays such a huge role in not only how your images look, but how your clients look, too! It’s important to master the art of editing, just as much as mastering the art of posing and shooting. On this episode, my photographer friend and master editor, Mylyn Wood joins me to share her top editing tips of the trade that can help you achieve more consistent and professional images. These strategies could ultimately give you that luxury look you’ve been trying to achieve, but maybe you didn’t know how… until now. Hit play.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/editing-mylyn-wood/

Is it time to make a pivot in your business? Now more than ever before, I’m evaluating my current circumstances, what I feel passionate about, and what path will lead me to where I want to go. Have you done the same? I encourage you to tune into this conversation with Event Planners and Educators, Teissia and Alia of The Firefly Method (previously known as Firefly Events) about their path to success and how leaning into their intuition led to huge pivots in their lives and business.

After 10 years of hustling and growing their business, Firefly Events was named top planners by Vogue Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Martha Stewart and The Knot. Over the last few years Teissia and Alia have pivoted their business to offer the much-needed guidance and experience to planners trying to make it in the wedding industry with The Firefly Method. These ladies are the real deal when it comes to wedding industry expertise and their open-book attitude.

Hit play to learn how to make room for more magic and lean into the little voice that is telling you it’s time to make a change.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/pivoting-your-passions-firefly-method/

Do you want to know what made Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner and music heartthrob Joe Jonas say “you’re hired” to Corbin Gurkin, photographer extraordinaire?

I certainly did! That’s why I brought her on the Play It Brave podcast this week!

Corbin is a photographer of more than 20 years and has photographed weddings in California’s wine country, the striking beaches of Thailand, country estates in Ireland, and the hillside villages of Tuscany. Her work is regularly featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue and Town & Country, and she’s captured PDN’s Top Knots Wedding Photography grand prize award. Corbin’s celebrity clients include Sophie Turner & Joe Jonas, Allen Leech & Jessica Herman, Ashley Tisdale & Christopher French, and many others she can’t tell us about.

Corbin was able to build her reputation by not only exceeding the expectations of her clients with outstanding work, but she often submitted her images for publication. After being featured in publications like Martha Stewart Weddings, Once Wed, and Elle Decor early in her career, she became widely trusted by high end wedding planners and couples. This just goes to show that putting off submitting your work could mean putting off your goal of reaching the luxury clients of your dreams!

If you want to learn more about what it takes to land your first celebrity wedding, hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/celebrity-wedding-photographer-corbin-gurkin/

When was the last time you updated your website? If the answer doesn’t fall within the last month, then hightail it and hit play. In this episode, Jen Olmstead of Tonic Site Shop joins me to over-serve on knowledge bombs about websites so that we can ensure you’re putting your best foot forward in the online space and not scaring away your bookings. If you have it in your mind that a truly great website costs $10-$50k then I have good news for you! Find out the true recipe for a kickass website that will stop your dream clients in their tracks and cost less than you think.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/website-jen-olmstead/

If you’ve ever considered getting into the podcast game, here’s the first thing you should know:

The “magical Internet money” isn’t going to fall into your lap. Podcasting is a grind, and there’s no one who understands the good old-fashioned grind better than powerlifter turned podcaster, Jeremy Slate.

Jeremy is the founder of the award winning Create Your Own Life Podcast with over 2.5 million downloads, and he’s joining me on this episode to talk about how you can become a leader in your industry through podcasting.

Whether you’re looking to launch your own podcast, or just be a guest on other podcasts, hit play to find out how you can achieve leader status.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/industry-leader-podcast-jeremy-slate

In the world as it is today you may be feeling fear and confusion around what to say and do to support the Black Lives Matter Movement. You or people you know may have been “called out” or corrected and that can feel uncomfortable or embarrassing. It’s okay to be uncomfortable. Uncomfortable is GOOD. In this episode, Erin and Steve of Sok Vision join me to discuss what White people are getting wrong, and what you can be doing and saying that will make a sustainable impact! Hit play.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/anti-racism-sok-vision

If you feel like you are A-okay in the mind chatter game, have a listen. Whether you are aware of it or not, we all have negative thoughts, and they’re affecting our daily lives and businesses. Maharati Ishaya joins me on this episode to talk about how you can wake up the version of yourself that you’re meant to be. So many of us get trapped in the cycle of waiting. Waiting for more money, a body we decide is the right one, a relationship that we saw in a movie one time. It's such a prison, but they keys are right here. Right now. Hit play.

SHOW NOTES: darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/meditation-mindset-maharati-ishaya

One thing that 2020 has taught us is when big things are thrown at us, it’s important to keep pivoting, creating, and finding solutions that not only solve people’s problems, but allow your business to thrive. Fallon Carter is what I like to call a solution Ninja, and on this episode she’s sharing all the ways she is serving and solving problems in these unprecedented times while her business continues to grow and thrive. Hit play to get in on this problem-solving action!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/solutions-fallon-carter

The truth is, being diverse is more than a business strategy. It’s our responsibility to shape what the wedding industry looks like, so this week talented photographer Elizabeth Austin joined me for a brave conversation about creating a feeling of safety for Black and Brown people in our businesses and the industry as a whole. Hit play to find out how you can help.

SHOW NOTES

Imagine if you could shape your life and business, just by changing your thoughts… Would you give it a try? In this episode, Life & Business Coach, Tiffany Peterson shares her formula for success that led to her quadrupling her income in one year! Bottom line: Your mindset is such a powerful resource, so if you’re not harnessing it, then you’re missing out on some serious goodness (and big paychecks).

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/harnessing-your-mindset-tiffany-peterson/

Are you finding yourself burnt out on things that aren't leading towards your big goals? Rhiannon Bosse was a wedding planner who chose to honor her next season of life by retiring from the hustle and bustle of the events industry. She’s here today to give us her biggest takeaways when it comes to the radical act of self love that is BOUNDARIES. Hit play to hear what magic word you need to add into your vocabulary!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/saying-no-rhiannon-bosse/

What could be sexier than getting hours on HOURS of time back into your life when your business is operating like a well-oiled machine? In this episode, wedding photographer Shannon Moffit is sharing her top five systems that increase her efficiency. And get this: she’s also giving us her Profit Margin Calculator FOR FREE! There is no better time than now to implement systems in your business that will raise your level of service and save time during your busiest seasons. Hit play to discover the possibilities!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/systems-are-sexy/

What life would you be living if you released the expectations of the people around you? In this episode, author, speaker, and educator – Stacey Foley is explaining the power of the moon in your journey of self-discovery and stepping into your power as a creative. If you’re feeling like you’ve gone down the wrong path, or are not following your intuition and calling, this episode is for YOU! Let’s dive in.

Stacey Foley IG: www.instagram.com/thestaceyfoley/

Luminate Your Life: www.thestaceyfoley.com/selfdiscovery-coaching

If you’re looking for a how-to guide to putting out quality content that speaks to your ideal audience and communicates your worth, you’re in luck! On this episode, Carrie Moe, owner of Type A Society is sharing her key tips for creating viral and effective content that helps you book your dream clients. She was able to harness her content to book brands like Ebay, Berta Bridal, and Zappos, and you can too! Hit play and dive in.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/content-is-queen-carrie-moe/

Are you looking for ways to increase your profits without trading more of your time for money? Look no further. Today’s guest, Caroline Tran, is a genius photographer but even wiser business owner, who found a way to exponentially increase the money in her pocket, while spending LESS time away from her family. In this episode she’s sharing some of her amazing insight and ideas for you to do the same in your biz. Seriously guys, these ideas are genius! Hit play.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/caroline-tran-profits-time/

Here’s a question for you… Could you be making more money in your business? Hint: the answer is probably YES. In this episode the owner of Refined Co., Marta Locklear joins me in a conversation about how many opportunities are out there for diversifying your income so that you’re no longer reliant on one industry, season, or clientele to make a living. Hit play to discover the possibilities.

SHOW NOTES: http://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/marta-locklear-income-streams/

Entrepreneurship is filled with busy days and SO. MUCH. HUSTLE. Welcome to burnout-ville, am I right? In this episode, I interviewed the one and only Perry Vaile, an extraordinary photographer, but an even better mother and wife. With the help of boundaries and workflows, she has been able to carve out more time for herself and her family, while still running a highly successful wedding photography business. Listen to hear all her secrets for showing up for her family AND her clients – both in a remarkable way.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/less-hustle-more-rest-perry-vaile/

Wondering what big mistakes you’re making in your brand? Dr. Chelsea Shields is a brand strategist who focuses on finding ways for brands to make a bigger impact on their target market. In this episode, she lays it all on the table with 5 of the most common mistakes that businesses are making and her surefire strategies for fixing them. Trust me on this… You do NOT want to miss this episode that is packed full of mind-blowing knowledge for ANY business. Hit play!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/5-brand-mistakes/

Take a minute to imagine your dream job. Where are you? France? Italy? California? Who are you working with? Who are you serving? I want you to keep this dream job in mind while you listen to this episode where I interview internationally famous photographer, Greg Finck. He shares his secrets to breaking into the luxury market of your dreams so that YOU can use them to break into the luxury market of YOUR dreams! Are you ready? Hit play.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/luxury-market-greg-finck/

Newsflash: There’s no one formula for business success. It’s too often in our industry that we strive to have businesses like our idols, and we don’t pay enough attention to what makes you different. The one thing that is clear, is that massive growth can be found when you get consistent and be courageous. In this episode, world-renowned photographer, Lauren Fair shares her tactics for growing from a 17 year old amateur photographer, to the iconic brand and business she runs today. Tune in to hear her “formula” for success, and what tactics you can take away and implement in your business today!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/consistency-and-courage-lauren-fair/

What would you do to get a behind the scenes look into a business that has been profitable for over two DECADES? Good news is all you have to do is hit PLAY on this episode where I interview my good friend Jon Canlas, owner of his super profitable photography business, The FIND Lab, and Co-Founder of the Hybrid Collective. He gives you some tangible takeaways that could have you increasing your profits per client in no time.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/how-to-increase-your-profits/

What if you could create a team that not only took tasks off your plate, but a team that thrives, communicates effortlessly, and solves some of the biggest problems in your business? Billy Boughey of Elevate Experiences is the author of Culture Reconstructed, and he joins me in this episode to drop some major knowledge bombs about hiring the right team members, creating a healthy workplace culture, having difficult conversations with your team, and so. much. more! Listen in to cultivate the team culture for your business.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/hire-and-train-a-team/

What would it mean for your business if you could create an experience for your clients and workshops that they couldn’t stop talking about? On this episode, Experience Designer, Baya Voce gives her top tips and examples of creating memorable experiences that people can’t stop talking about. Listen in to learn how you can TRANSFORM your client experience.

SHOW NOTES: http://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/powerful-experiences-baya-voce/

Your weekly dose of wit and wisdom is back with a BANG! In this episode I’m giving you a behind the scenes look at how I plan out my content for the year so that I’m actually MEETING those goals I’ve set. Anyone else out there set goals and realize halfway through the year that you’re behind? This episode is for you, ninja! Listen in to get my tips and tricks.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/marketing-plan-for-the-new-year/

From a gated community to a double-wide in the countryside, Alexandria Smith shares her story of transformation and what it taught her about success, intentionality, gratitude, and living a nourishing life. Take a listen to D’Arcy and Alex’s conversation to gain perspective and learn some ways to nurture yourself, your family, and the community around you.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/big-dreams-come-in-small-packages/

One of the most common questions I get is how to get on Preferred Vendor Lists, and I’ve brought on the owner of Rachael Ellen Events to personally answer your questions and teach you the do’s and don’ts of connecting with wedding planners. What are you waiting for? Push play already!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/the-secret-to-getting-booked-by-wedding-planners/

Have you ever thought about how your personality could determine your bottom line? In this episode, Morgan of In Frames Photography and I discuss how our VERY different personalities have effected our businesses, and how you can utilize your personality in your marketing to attract the right clientele, and raise your prices.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/does-personality-determine-profits?/

This week I’m rewinding the tapes and going back to an old favorite when I gave away all my secrets for collecting kickass testimonials and recurring referrals that keep me booked up ALL. YEAR. LONG. Even if you already listened, we all need a good reminder every now and then. BONUS: Listen all the way through to get the link to download my FREE guide to Super Power Testimonials.

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/testimonial-&-referral-marketing-strategies-you-can-copy/

Today on the Play It Brave Podcast, I’m giving an exclusive sneak peek into my Brand Map course. This lesson is diving into all the ways to define your brand and create a strong foundation for your business. If your business is in need of a stronger identity that is recognizable, trusting, and evokes emotions, you should really have a listen!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/exclusive-access:-how-to-brand-strong/

If you’re in pursuit of getting your story heard and business seen, then listen up! Today on Play It Brave, PR Ninja Jen Gottlieb shares the importance of relationships and networking to your visibility online. She even gives you some action steps to take that will help you skyrocket your business to success, so make sure you tune in!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/how-to-build-a-network-that-skyrockets-your-business-with-jen-gottlieb/

Do you dream of publishing a book? There’s more to it than you’d think. Today on Play It Brave, I’m interviewing health coach, blogger, online business mentor, and published author, Elizabeth Rider. On this episode, she gives a behind the scenes look into becoming a published author, enlightens us with what photographers should know about working with someone like her, and shares a few healthy habits all entrepreneurs should partake in. This is a must-listen for any entrepreneur out there, even if you don’t dream of becoming an author!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/behind-the-scenes-of-getting-a-book-published/

Getting inside buyers’ minds is so important when it comes to knowing how to position yourself to show the value of what you’re offering. On this episode I’m sharing the top 5 questions buyers ask themselves before making a purchase, and you don’t want to miss it! Dive in and challenge yourself to take these questions into account when marketing your products and services so that you can increase your sales and have the best year yet!

SHOW NOTES: https://darcybenincosa.com/play-it-brave/5-questions-clients-ask-before-they-buy-from-you/