Content Etc.: Recent Episodes

Michelle Gately

Content Etc podcast is a collection of advice and encouragement to help you overcome the challenges of marketing your small business. It's perfect for product or service-based businesses who want to understand and improve their content marketing efforts. Host Michelle Gately from Word By Word Storytelling will help you gently and sustainably grow your business, build genuine customer relationships and enjoy the creative process.

Theme music by MarkJuly from Pixabay.

View Details

Planning content that feels enjoyable to create and connects with your ideal audience? Yes, please! In this episode, I'm walking you through the process I use to plan out long-form and social content, including the questions you should be asking yourself for every single piece of content you publish.

This is the process you can repeat each month, quarter, or for a set launch period. And don't forget to come tell me on Instagram if you use it to plan out some content!

✏️ Get a short and simple copywriting tip in your inbox every Thursday when you join Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get chatty story-led emails sharing lessons from behind the scenes of marketing a small business. Sign up here.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • 7 places to find fresh content ideas for your small business

Want to get me on your marketing team?

There are a few ways we can work together to round out 2023.

  • Power Hours: for tailored marketing advice and support
  • The Copy Edit: for a thorough audit of your DIY copy, with re-writes you can add to your website straight away. Take a look inside an edit to see what's included.
  • Custom copywriting: for fresh website words
  • Monthly content: for consistent, story-led blogs and emails

View Details

Understanding your dream client or customer is one of the best ways to make all the content you create stand out from the crowd. And if you’ve already created products or you’re offering services, then you probably have an idea of the sort of person who is attracted to your offers.

But in this episode, I want to help you clarify some elements of this that will, hopefully, really help you write content that builds a connection between those dream people and your brand.

✏️ Get a short and simple copywriting tip in your inbox every Thursday when you join Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get chatty story-led emails sharing lessons from behind the scenes of marketing a small business. Sign up here.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • The DIY website copy prep kit for small business owners
  • Is Marketing & Selling To Pain Points Manipulative & Unethical? | Josephine Brooks
  • How to Use Psychographics in Your Marketing: A Beginner's Guide

Want to get me on your marketing team?

There are a few ways we can work together to round out 2023.

  • Power Hours: for tailored marketing advice and support
  • The Copy Edit: for a thorough audit of your DIY copy, with re-writes you can add to your website straight away. Take a look inside an edit to see what's included.
  • Custom copywriting: for fresh website words
  • Monthly content: for consistent, story-led blogs and emails

View Details

Can you have a profitable business if you quit social media? My guest today, Astrid Bracke, explains why it's possible and reflects on more than a year of marketing without any social media. We also discuss why she moved her email list to Substack and what she enjoys about creating community through her marketing.

Make sure to follow Astrid's Substack and learn more at Astrid's Website

✏️ Get a short and simple copywriting tip in your inbox every Thursday when you join Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get chatty story-led emails sharing lessons from behind the scenes of marketing a small business. Sign up here.

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • How Astrid transitioned from a career in academia to building her business
  • The way marketing has changed as Astrid's business has pivoted
  • Reflecting on more than a year of marketing without social media
  • Why building a community is a key pillar of Astrid's marketing strategy
  • Moving to Substack: why Astrid moved to this blog/email hybrid platform and what she enjoys about it
  • Astrid's top tips for reducing your time and reliance of social media (if it's not making you happy)

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • Why I left social media to build community around my business - Astrid Bracke
  • Lessons from 6 months on Substack - Astrid Bracke
  • One year later: reflections on 16 months without social media - Astrid Bracke
  • Better Words Substack - This is the Substack I write with my co-host, perfect if you want regular book recommendations!
  • Astrid's hobby Substack: House Plant Journal
  • Astrid's Substack: Female Owned
  • Substack for small business owners - Astrid Bracke | small business mentoring

Want to get me on your marketing team?

There are a few ways we can work together to round out 2023.

  • Power Hours: for tailored marketing advice and support
  • The Copy Edit: for a thorough audit of your DIY copy, with re-writes you can add to your website straight away. Take a look inside an edit to see what's included.
  • Custom copywriting: for fresh website words
  • Monthly content: for consistent, story-led blogs and emails

View Details

There's something about social media that helps us relax a little. But blog posts and emails? It just starts feeling like you need to be a bit more 'professional'. Well, I don't think marketing needs to feel like that, so I'm sharing some simple techniques and tips to help you share more personality in your content.

The goal? To help you feel like your blog posts and emails reflect your unique brand voice, values and personality. Hopefully, that makes it feel easier to create and helps nurture connections with dream clients.

✏️ Get a short and simple copywriting tip in your inbox every Thursday when you join Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get chatty story-led emails sharing lessons from behind the scenes of marketing a small business. Sign up here.

In this episode, I'm talking about:

  • Why adding personality and storytelling to your blogs and emails is so important
  • How to start adding personal stories
  • The power of examples from your world, tailored for your audience
  • Why we need to shrug off some of the writing 'rules'
  • The importance of consuming good content critically

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • Email story example: the messy desk
  • Email story example: Visiting the portrait gallery
  • Email story example: working out at home

Want to get me on your marketing team?

There are a few ways we can work together to round out 2023.

  • Power Hours: for tailored marketing advice and support
  • The Copy Edit: for a thorough audit of your DIY copy, with re-writes you can add to your website straight away. Take a look inside an edit to see what's included.
  • Custom copywriting: for fresh website words
  • Monthly content: for consistent, story-led blogs and emails

View Details

In this episode, I'm sharing six small things that might help you if you're ever feeling a bit 'behind' in business or comparing your progress to other people. I wrote it as much for myself as you, but I really hope it helps.

Before that, though, I'm sharing a pretty raw, kinda unplanned and probably rambly little chat about how I've felt since immersing myself in the online business world again.

✏️ Get a short and simple copywriting tip in your inbox every Thursday when you join Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get chatty story-led emails sharing lessons from behind the scenes of marketing a small business. Sign up here.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • How to work with your energy levels to avoid overwork and burnout with Jo Hooper
  • Better Words podcast

Want to get me on your marketing team?

There are a few ways we can work together to round out 2023.

  • Power Hours: for tailored marketing advice and support
  • The Copy Edit: for a thorough audit of your DIY copy, with re-writes you can add to your website straight away. Take a look inside an edit to see what's included.
  • Custom copywriting: for fresh website words
  • Monthly content: for consistent, story-led blogs and emails

View Details

Hands up if you're sick of relying on social media for every sale. If your screen time is out of control and yet you feel like you're getting zero traction, then it's time to focus on building your evergreen marketing strategy. This week, I'm joined by Josephine Brooks to talk through how we can set up a marketing funnel to help us unchain ourselves from the social media marketing beast.

This is part two of my chat with Josephine. In part one, she shared the messy reality of burning out from the launch cycle and rebuilding her business to encourage more freedom. Scroll back in your podcast feed or click here to listen.

Make sure to follow @josephinepbrooks on Instagram.

✏️ Get a short and simple copywriting tip in your inbox every Thursday when you join Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get chatty story-led emails sharing lessons from behind the scenes of marketing a small business. Sign up here.

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • The main components of an evergreen marketing strategy (discovery, nurture, inviting the sale)
  • Where to start with your evergreen marketing
  • The difference between a marketing and a sales funnel
  • A breakdown of how Josephine's marketing funnel guides people to work with her
  • Three reasons to start evergreen marketing this year
  • Replacing launch cycles with evergreen approaches – does it mean you're selling all the time?

Want to get me on your marketing team?

There are a few ways we can work together to round out 2023.

  • Power Hours: for tailored marketing advice and support
  • The Copy Edit: for a thorough audit of your DIY copy, with re-writes you can add to your website straight away
  • Custom copywriting: for fresh website words
  • Monthly content: for consistent, story-led blogs and emails

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • How to write blog posts FAST & create a blogging habit You Can Stick To | Josephine Brooks
  • Building An Ethical Sales Funnel | Josephine Brooks
  • Marketing Without Social Media (Or Just Less Reliance On Instagram)! | Josephine Brooks
  • Sign up for my Notes from the Margins with weekly copy tips & marketing stories
  • Sign up for Josephine's emails

View Details

Launching every few months was the main source of revenue for Josephine Brooks. Until each launch started to feel harder, and bouncing back took longer and longer. Then Josephine hit complete business burnout.

In part one of our chat, Josephine shares the messy reality of rebuilding her business and explains why she's said goodbye to the launch cycle in favour of evergreen marketing.

In part two, we'll be diving into how to build your own evergreen marketing strategy.

Make sure to follow @josephinepbrooks on Instagram

Sick of wasting time trying to think of what to post on Instagram? Feel like everything you try to write has been done to death? I've got you! Get months of ideas in your inbox for free. Sign up here.

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • How Josephine's business evolved and the impact of burnout
  • Josephine's experience with the launch cycle and why it's so exhausting
  • Coming back from burnout and building a business again
  • What marketing looks like for Josephine and how she gets clients now
  • What to look out for in your business to avoid marketing burnout

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔

Something on your mind? Use this form to ask a question I can answer on a future podcast episode.

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. Book your spot here.

View Details

Figuring out a price for your services sometimes feels like picking a number at random and hoping it works out. In fact, it fills me with fear – and I'm willing to be I'm not the only one. That's why I invited freelance mentor Susie Jackson to join me and explain how we can make service pricing a little less scary.

Make sure to follow Susie @the.organizedfreelancer on Instagram.

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. Book your spot here.

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • Why it's so hard to set prices, especially for services
  • How to raise your prices
  • How to communicate price rises with current clients
  • The most common outcomes of a price change and how to approach each one
  • Top tips for raising your prices

Sick of wasting time trying to think of what to post on Instagram? Feel like everything you try to write has been done to death? I've got you! Get months of ideas in your inbox for free. Sign up here.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • How to Increase Your Prices - Susie Jackson | Pricing Mentor
  • Raising Your Prices - Susie Jackson | Freelance Mentor
  • Free resources — Susie Jackson
  • Working with our energy levels so we can run a sustainable business - Content Etc.

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔

Something on your mind? Use this form to ask a question I can answer on a future podcast episode.

View Details

Christmas is the biggest sales opportunity for product-based businesses, but that often means it can also feel like a stressful whirlwind. We want to avoid that and still make it a profitable season for your small business. In this episode, artist and small business owner Lucy Carter joins me to reveal how her Christmas preparation has evolved, what's worked (and what hasn't), plus super useful tips for IRL market stalls.

Make sure to follow Lucy @leaflanestudio on Instagram

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • How Lucy's Christmas preparation has evolved since 2020, including an advent calendar in 2021 and hand-painted baubles in 2022.
  • Getting featured in Stylist Magazine (and why it wasn't the boost product-based owners hope for)
  • Lucy's top tips for making the most of small business/handmade markets
  • Creating a luxurious customer experience through packaging and extra touches
  • A review of Lucy's 2022 sales and what she's planning to continue in 2023
  • Tips for product-based businesses as they plan for Christmas sales this year

Once you've planned out your product launches, check out these prompts to help you promote it across social media and emails. Unwrap your free prompts.

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔

Something on your mind? Use this form to ask a question I can answer on a future podcast episode.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • SMALL BUSINESS TIPS | MARKETS AND IN-PERSON EVENTS — Leaf Lane Studio - Lucy's reflections on the market season and what small business owners can do to make the most of them

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. Book your spot here.

View Details

Welcome to a new season of Content Etc. In this episode, I'm explaining where I've been and the work I've been doing as a journalist outside Word By Word Storytelling. I'll also share the ways we can work together to improve your website content and copy for the rest of 2023.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • A month of creative content prompts for small business marketing
  • The DIY website copy prep kit for small business owners
  • Creative SEO copywriting and content marketing services
  • My ABC News portfolio
  • The Great Australian Camel Race promised adventure — but some nearly didn't make it through alive - ABC News
  • The Great Australian Camel Race (part 2) - ABC Radio National
  • The Great Australian Camel Race (part 1) - ABC Radio National
  • Listen to Better Words - The bookish podcast I co-host with my friend Caitlin where we chat books and interview authors.

Sick of wasting time trying to think of what to post on Instagram? Feel like everything you try to write has been done to death? I've got you! Get months of ideas in your inbox for free. Sign up here.

View Details

This year has been an exercise in patience and learning to work better with limited energy. Working with Jo Hooper from Get Wildly Free has been a huge part of this shift in my business. Jo is all about changing the world of work and helping people find freedom in their work – whatever that looks like for them.

Today, we're starting with a discussion about accommodating our energy and understanding how our capacity can influence our business strategy. This is something Jo expands on in her Work Less, Earn More, Be Free, which I had the pleasure of taking part in earlier in the year.

Make sure to follow Jo on Instagram @getwildlyfree

✨ REFRESH YOUR CONTENT ✨

Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark! The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. Sign up here.

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • How our energy levels impact our work – and Jo's personal journey to understanding this
  • The energetic load of different work
  • How can we apply these learnings to our marketing strategy as a whole
  • How Jo approaches launch periods while managing her energy

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔

Something on your mind? Use this form to ask a question I can answer on a future podcast episode.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • Value Based Pricing and How It Helps Your Business | Mad & Sad Club
  • 6 Signs It's Time To FIRE Your Client | Mad & Sad Club
  • Work with Jo in a one-off Alight session

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. Book your spot here.

View Details

What if a sales page didn't have to feel like writing a dissertation? What if it didn't make you feel icky and weird? Copywriter Natalia Toborek from Storylign joins me to de-mystify the sales page. Plus, she'll explain how you can write one ethically and still make sales.

This episode was originally recorded in late 2020, before a workshop on sales pages Natalia hosted. I found the workshop to be one of the most valuable things I've ever bought for my business, so I knew I had to update and re-release this episode for you.

Make sure you're following Natalia on Instagram @storylign

✨ REFRESH YOUR CONTENT ✨

Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark! The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. Sign up here.

In this episode, we're talking about:

  • The differences between copy and content
  • What is a sales page, and when do we use them?
  • How to use formulas to write sales pages that still feel human (without any ick)
  • The essential elements of every sales page

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔

Something on your mind? Use this form to ask a question I can answer on a future podcast episode.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • Aligned Copy Audit | Work with Natalia
  • Copy vs Content: What's the difference? | Storylign on Instagram

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. Book your spot here.

View Details

🎄 CHRISTMAS CONTENT SORTED🎄

Prompts for product and service-based businesses to sleigh your festive sales on social media and in your emails. Unwrap your free prompts.

Blogging consistently is one of the best ways to keep growing your website traffic and increase your visibility online. But what should your SEO-friendly post include? We're scrolling through an SEO post in this episode and going through all the elements you need to tick the Google boxes. Plus, I'll share some tips for planning a post without stress.

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔

Something on your mind? Use this form to ask a question I can answer on a future podcast episode.

Links to things mentioned in this episode:

  • TinyPNG – Compress WebP, PNG and JPEG images intelligently
  • 15 SEO BEST PRACTICES for Structuring URLs - Moz
  • 50 Call-to-Action Examples You Can't Help But Click
  • How to use headings on your site • Yoast
  • How People Read Online: New and Old Findings
  • First 2 Words: A Signal for the Scanning Eye
  • What Are Title Tags? [Plus FREE Title Tag Preview Tool] - Moz
  • Hemingway Editor
  • Grammarly

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. Book your spot here.

View Details

🎄 CHRISTMAS CONTENT SORTED🎄 Prompts for product and service-based businesses to sleigh your festive sales on social media and in your emails. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/633414007a59217f2325627f (Unwrap your free prompts).

Blogging is a vital part of growing your visibility and website traffic through search. Plus, it's going to give you so much content to repurpose. But where do you start? This episode will give you the inspiration and ideas for dozens of posts to kickstart your brand-spanking new business blog and get that traffic flowing. (P.S. I wanna see what you write! Please send me a link to any blog posts this inspires! You can reach me on Instagram @wordbywordstorytelling) 🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/blog/2021/10/11/content-planning-inspiration-tips (Your content planning process: how to get inspired and make it exciting) https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/blog/content-marketing-ideas-inspiration (7 places to find fresh content ideas for your small business) https://answerthepublic.com/ (Search listening tool for market, customer & content research - AnswerThePublic)

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

Christmas has come early at Content Etc because I want you to absolutely smash your festive season/Q4 sales targets this year. This episode is a quickie because you'll find all the prompts discussed (and more) when you download the ebook below... 🎄 CHRISTMAS CONTENT SORTED🎄 Prompts for product and service-based businesses to sleigh your festive sales on social media and in your emails. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/633414007a59217f2325627f (Unwrap your free prompts).

https://content-etc.captivate.fm/episode/sales-confidence-joanne-griffin (Sales mindset: how to improve your confidence and feel good selling - Content Etc.) - Make sure you listen back to retail marketing mentor Joanne in this episode of the podcast.

View Details

"I've been neglecting my website SEO for a long time, any tips on where to get started? What to focus on first and what to proceed with after that?" Thank you for asking this question https://www.fromdreamtoplan.net/ (Lisa)! This is the second in the SEO mini-series to de-mystify the process of growing your website traffic through Google. 🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. In this episode, I'm talking about: The most important things to review on-page Metrics to check to see where you're at right now Tips for what to focus on to continue growing

✨ REFRESH YOUR CONTENT ✨ Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark! The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here). Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://coschedule.com/blog/write-a-headline (73 Easy Ways To Write A Headline That Will Reach Your Readers) https://coschedule.com/blog/headline-examples (25 Headline Examples for Every Type of Content You'll Write) https://coschedule.com/headline-analyzer (Write Better Headlines: Headline Analyzer From CoSchedule) https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-search-console-guide/209318/ (A Complete Google Search Console Guide For SEO Pros) https://search.google.com/search-console/about (Google Search Console) https://spotibo.com/seo-analyzer (Spotibo SEO checker - Free website SEO on-page analysis) https://www.semrush.com/blog/seo-audit/ (How to Perform an SEO Audit in 18 Steps) https://hemingwayapp.com/ (Hemingway Editor) https://www.grammarly.com (Grammarly)

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

You don't need to be a tech whiz or pay big bucks to sort out your SEO and rank on Google. In this mini-series, we'll dive into the simple ways you can sort your website SEO and keep growing traffic. ✨ REFRESH YOUR CONTENT ✨ Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark! The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here). In this episode, I'm talking about: What actually is SEO? The main elements of technical SEO, on-page SEO and off-page SEO A little pep talk to get you started

Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://www.searchenginejournal.com/google-search-console-guide/209318/ (A Complete Google Search Console Guide For SEO Pros) https://search.google.com/search-console/about (Google Search Console) https://spotibo.com/seo-analyzer (Spotibo SEO checker - Free website SEO on-page analysis) https://www.semrush.com/blog/seo-audit/ (How to Perform an SEO Audit in 18 Steps) https://hemingwayapp.com/ (Hemingway Editor) https://www.grammarly.com (Grammarly)

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

Stuck on the hamster wheel of content creation? Feeling icky about what you 'should' be doing to sell? Over the constant hustle? https://www.alexokell.com/ (Alex Okell) was too after severe burnout forced her to re-evaluate how she approached everything in business. Alex created a Slow Business Framework and now works with wellbeing professionals to help them set up their work in a way that prioritises their mental and physical health. I'm a big fan of this approach to business, which is why I wanted to record a case study exploring Alex's evolution from hustle to gentle marketing. Want more from Alex? She's hosting a free 3-day gentle visibility training I know will resonate with Content Etc listeners. The training runs from October 11 to 13, and you can https://www.alexokell.com/visible (sign up here). ✨ REFRESH YOUR CONTENT ✨ Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark! The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here). In this episode, we're talking about: What is slow business? How this approach has changed Alex's life and work Behind the scenes of Alex's weekly repurposing and marketing schedule 3 ways we can incorporate slow business philosophy into our work today

🤔 SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://www.alexokell.com/articles/learnings-from-business (5 things I would do if I was starting my service-based business from scratch — Alex Okell) https://www.alexokell.com/articles/why-ive-opted-out-of-hustle-culture (Why I’ve opted out of hustle culture — Alex Okell)

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

Graphic design is an essential part of building a recognisable brand and sharing your business story in visual form. This week, brand designer https://thesearethedays.co/ (Sarah Robertson from These Are The Days) joins me to talk through the most important elements of visual branding and offers insight into how you can DIY these if you're not quite ready to invest in a custom branding package. I have Sarah to thank for my re-branding (and the gorgeous artwork for this podcast) so I'm delighted to learn more about her creative process during this discussion. Make sure you sign up for her https://thesearethedays.co/creative-letters/ (Inside Story letters), too! Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark ✨ The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here). In this episode, we're talking about: What is branding? The fundamentals of logo design How to choose colours for your brand Why font typeface matters How to prepare for outsourcing your brand design

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://thesearethedays.co/journal/elevate-your-brand-story/ (Elevate your brand story - These Are The Days) https://thesearethedays.co/journal/seasonal-colour-palettes/ (Seasonal colour palettes - These Are The Days) https://coolors.co/ (Coolors - The super fast color palettes generator!) https://fonts.google.com/ (Google Fonts) https://www.myfonts.com/ (Find fonts at My Fonts) https://creativemarket.com/fonts (Find fonts and inspiration at Creative Market) https://www.etsy.com/market/logo_templates (Find logo templates at Etsy) https://creativemarket.com/templates/logos (Find logo kits at The Creative Market)

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

"What's the best way to plan your content - how far in advance? The reason I ask is I tend to map out a content plan in advance for the month ahead, but then week to week when I get to it sometimes I've changed my mind, or I'm in a different headspace and feel I'm constantly changing my mind, rather than sticking to the plan!" SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_isles/ (Jen) submitted this question, which was definitely harder to answer than I expected! There's much more mindset work involved than you may expect, and there's no quick answer to the 'best' way to plan. But, I hope you find this helpful because it feels like content planning is a big hurdle we all face – and it's something that might bring up a lot of comparison with others who seem more organised than you. Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark ✨ The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here). Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

If I scrolled through your Instagram feed, looked at your website or glanced at your podcast episode titles would I know what you do? Content pillars are the secret to organised, purposeful and successful content. Everything you create to market your business should fit into your content pillars: blog posts, podcasts, Instagram posts, emails. In this episode, learn how to find yours. SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS 🤔 Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to ask a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. In this episode, I'm talking about: What are content pillars? Why they're going to help you and your audience How to find your pillars

Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark ✨ The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here). Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

You feel uncomfortable asking for the sale, so you don't really do it. And then you don't make sales. So you still feel uncomfortable and you avoid it even more. Sound familiar? If you're nodding along, then you need to listen to this episode. Retail and marketing coach Joanne Griffin joins me to talk all things sales. Joanne has worked with retain businesses for 15 years and shares so much advice in this chat – including some tips on prepping for Christmas and a brilliant pep talk to help us feel better about the current economy. Make sure you're also following her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creativeflowcollective/ (@CreativeFlowCollective) Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark ✨ The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here).

In this episode, we're talking about: How the market is influencing our buying right now – and why there's never a perfect time to sell The most common mindset blocks Joanne sees from both product and service-based businesses How to start overcoming and switching your mindset to improve your sales confidence 3 practical things you can do today to make a sale What product-based businesses can do to prepare for Christmas sales Why Christmas and January aren't a dead zone for service-based sales

Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. There's no such thing as a silly question! Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://creativeflowcollective.com/2021/11/increase-sales/ (Increase Sales & Learn How To Drive Traffic To Your Retail Website) https://creativeflowcollective.com/2021/11/money-affirmation-meditation/ (Positive Money Affirmation Meditation | The Creative Flow Podcast) https://creativeflowcollective.com/free-resources/ (Free resources from Creative Flow Collective) - Join Joanne's newsletter to get access to a 21-day mindset journal, the Black Friday Guide, and Brand & Product USP checklist http://creativeflowcollective.com/sell-with-confidence-workshop/ (Sell with Confidence | workshop replay) https://creativeflowcollective.com/plan-your-christmas/ (Plan Your Best Christmas: From Panicked to Prepared Workshop)

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

At some point in your business, it might feel like no one is buying anything you're selling. In all honesty, I've felt like this throughout the year. It's not the time to give up, and it's certainly not the time to stop marketing. But, there are some things you can try and tweak that will help set a good foundation for building sales in the future. Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. There's no such thing as a silly question! In this episode, I'm talking about: Mapping your customer journey Evaluating the messages in your content Why now is the time to focus on building a long-term content system Things to update on your website Some tips for refreshing your strategy (including my free email challenge – all the details below)

Are you feeling lost and uninspired when you try to post anything? Do you feel like everything you think of has been done SO many times before? I have just the thing to help you re-ignite the spark ✨ The free 5-day Refresh Your Content email series will give you the prompts and process to help you find more ease and enjoyment in your marketing. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/refresh-your-content (Sign up here).

Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://content-etc.captivate.fm/episode/diy-website-design-tips (Simple design changes to give your DIY website the wow factor - Content Etc.) https://abranchofholly.com/blog/income-uncertain-times (Income producing activities to help your business thrive in uncertain times) https://madandsadclub.co.uk/the-chat/what-to-do-when-it-feels-like-nothing-in-your-business-is-working/ (What to do when it feels like nothing is working | Mad & Sad Club)

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

Investing in a custom website build is a HUGE step, one not many of us can take right at the start of our businesses. But Dominique Marshall joins me to explain how to add a little strategic zest to your DIY website template – because, yes, using a template is a great way to get started! Although she specialises in Squarespace, the tips she's sharing in this episode apply to everything from Wordpress to Wix as well. Make sure you check out Dominique's beautiful (and functional, of course) website https://dmarzdesigns.com/ (here) and follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dmarzdesigns/ (@dmarzdesigns). In this episode, we're talking about: Why your website is always a work in progress Using templates to get your website started The 5 must-have elements of your website homepage (aka your online business shopfront) The other essential pages to build on your website Dominique's list of pet peeves to avoid

Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. There's no such thing as a silly question! Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://dmarzdesigns.com/vip-design-days (VIP Design Days for Online Business Owners | Dmarzdesigns) https://open.spotify.com/episode/7lSC4JHjbFrc4adWSxcECC?si=OTM5D79cRemgkFjolb0VvQ (Invite Your Customers Into a Beautiful Story - Marketing Made Simple | Podcast on Spotify) https://dmarzdesigns.com/blog/10-common-web-design-mistakes (10 Common Web Design Mistakes | Dmarzdesigns) https://dmarzdesigns.com/blog/5-website-homepage-must-haves (5 Website Homepage Must-Haves | Dmarzdesigns)

Sick of wasting time trying to think of what to post on Instagram? Feel like everything you try to write has been done to death? I've got you! Get months of ideas in your inbox for free. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (Sign up here). Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

In this episode, I'm re-sharing an interview and mini mentoring session I recorded with https://www.weightsandwine.co.uk/ (Emma from Weights & Wine) late last year. I wanted to re-visit this chat because I'm sure you'll find it helpful and inspirational. Faced with HUGE changes during early lockdowns, Emma pivoted her business and marketing strategy. It meant she could thrive – growing her business despite gyms being closed for months on end. Something on your mind? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future podcast episode. There's no such thing as a silly question! This episode was split into two parts. The first was all about Emma's journey so far. We talked about: Where Emma's clients find her Why Emma's glad she didn't offer free coaching at the start of lockdown Setting up her brand for in-person versus online training Where Emma gets content ideas and niching into female-focused content The impact all this has had on Emma's business

For part two, we did some mini mentoring about: How to find time for content Repurposing Knowing when to outsource

Sick of wasting time trying to think of what to post on Instagram? Feel like everything you try to write has been done to death? I've got you! Get months of ideas in your inbox for free. https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (Sign up here). Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Pick my brains for an hour in a 1:1 blend of feedback, mentoring and strategy. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Book your spot here.)

View Details

This week, I'm joined by email marketing expert Kelly Cookson from https://www.cheerupmarketing.com/ (Cheer Up Marketing). We originally recorded this interview in late 2021, but life got in the way, and I didn't release it. Thankfully, unlike social media, email marketing basics are pretty evergreen, and I knew this chat would still be SO helpful. In this episode, we're talking about: Why email is such a powerful marketing platform for every business (as long as you're prepared to do the nurturing first!) The first steps to starting your email list (working out your audience and the 'so what' factor) How to choose an email service provider Getting started with lead magnets/opt-in freebies How often to email your list and how to work out what to say A surprising place to find LOTS of email ideas

Got a question about content marketing? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future episode of the podcast. There's no such thing as a silly question! Links to things mentioned in this episode: Make sure to check out Kelly's https://kellycookson.kartra.com/page/emails (free guide for captivating subject lines). And, while you're at it make sure you're also getting my Notes from the Margins and https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (grab my free creative content prompts here). Want to try out Flodesk for your emails? I love the design and ease of use and you just might as well. https://flodesk.com/c/8W646D (Try Flodesk with a 50% discount using my affiliate link).

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Want personalised feedback and mentoring? A 1:1 power hour is the perfect option. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Find out more and book here.)

View Details

In this episode, I'm talking about: My journey with podcasting and how I got started 5 years ago, plus some of the lessons I've learned Am I too late to start a podcast? (not at all!) 3 ways to use podcasting. in your marketing Things to consider before you start podcasting for your business

Got a question about content marketing? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future episode of the podcast. There's no such thing as a silly question! Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://thecoworkingclub.co.uk/podcast/ (The Co-Working Club podcast) - A lovely example of a community-driven podcast for a service and location-based business https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5jYXB0aXZhdGUuZm0vdGhlLXdpbGQtYm9va3MtcG9kY2FzdC8?sa=X&ved=0CAMQ4aUDahcKEwiYuI-VxpX5AhUAAAAAHQAAAAAQAQ&hl=en-AU (Wild Books podcast) - A great example of a podcast by a product-based business (full disclosure: I've worked with Thalia to bring this to life) https://www.betterwordspodcast.com/ (Better Words (my co-hosted interview podcast)) https://www.buzzsprout.com/blog/podcast-statistics (Podcast Statistics and Data [June 2022]) https://influencermarketinghub.com/podcast-statistics/ (20 Podcast Statistics You Should Know in 2022) https://www.edisonresearch.com/the-infinite-dial-2021-uk/ (The Infinite Dial 2021 UK - Edison Research)

Get weekly inspiration and gentle encouragement in my Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get a free eBook with 27 creative content ideas to kickstart your valuable marketing straight away! https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (Sign up here). Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Want personalised feedback and mentoring? A 1:1 power hour is the perfect option. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Find out more and book here.)

View Details

Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Want personalised feedback and mentoring? A 1:1 power hour is the perfect option. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Find out more and book here.) In this episode, I'm talking about: Is blogging dead? (No, but it's changed) 3 key ways blogging helps grow your brand Things to consider before you commit to blogging for your business

Got a question about content marketing? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future episode of the podcast. There's no such thing as a silly question! Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://tartanblanketco.com/blogs/tbco (Brilliant blog example: Tartan Blanket Co) - This is a brilliant example of how product-based businesses can use blog posts to showcase how their products can become part of your life. I want to add EVERYTHING to my cart, thank you. https://madandsadclub.co.uk/the-chat/ (Brilliant blog example: Jo from Mad and Sad Club) - Jo shares her expertise and gives practical advice, while also showcasing the deeper work you can do as a client. Spoiler: One of her blog posts convinced me to sign up for a course. Proof it works! https://ellelorean.co/blog/ (Brilliant blog example: Elle Lorean Co) - Elle's blog is a great combination of client images that show her photography style, general freelance tips, and personal branding photoshoot tips that can be sent to clients as they prepare or help anyone booking a photoshoot. https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/are-blogs-dead (Are Blogs Dead in 2021? We Asked 10 Marketing Experts) https://optinmonster.com/blogging-statistics/ (Ultimate List of Blogging Statistics and Facts (Updated for 2022))

Get weekly inspiration and gentle encouragement in my Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get a free eBook with 27 creative content ideas to kickstart your valuable marketing straight away! https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (Sign up here).

View Details

Got a question about content marketing? https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetXbzJnREAI5_cjjNsm-ZLZnWNV86hwkeXMDBQpJmg-bzYhA/viewform?usp=sf_link (Use this form to submit a question) I can answer on a future episode of the podcast. There's no such thing as a silly question! In this episode, I'm talking about: What content marketing is (and isn't) Why I believe content marketing is the best investment you can make in your small business Why you can start at any time in your business journey (and how you can get started today with small steps)

Links to things mentioned in this episode: https://www.grammarly.com/ (Grammarly) https://www.mailerlite.com/ (Mailerlite) is a great option to start an email list for free

Get weekly inspiration and gentle encouragement in my Notes from the Margin. Plus, you'll get a free eBook with 27 creative content ideas to kickstart your valuable marketing straight away! https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (Sign up here). Got a sticky marketing issue? Need some content ideas for a launch or your brand building? Want personalised feedback and mentoring? A 1:1 power hour is the perfect option. By the end of our session, you’ll have more clarity and a practical plan of action to keep you motivated. https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/creative-consultation (Find out more and book here.)

View Details

Things have changed a little around here and Content Etc is getting a refresh in more than just cover art! In this episode, I'm chatting about: Why I changed my business name (and a little bit about Word By Word) My new multi-hyphen work life as a journalist and business owner Why I've removed previous episodes and what to expect moving forward

Links & resources in this episode: Thank you to Sarah at https://thesearethedays.co/ (These Are The Days) for my brilliant re-brand Have a squiz at https://www.wordbywordstorytelling.com/ (my new website) https://view.flodesk.com/pages/615cc4a4c71e8685f183bdcc (Get my Notes from the Margins emails)