Not Just About Copy with Emma McMillan: Recent Episodes
Emma McMillan
Not Just About Copy is a podcast all about connection. How we use words to connect with others, and the lasting impact words can have on us. It’s about empowering you to write better and with more confidence. It’s about learning to love a blank page and its possibilities. It’s about finding joy in words and language.
Zee Scott runs a multifaceted business. She’s a marriage celebrant, MC, cake artist, buttercream workshop facilitator and mini wedding venue owner! Zee has managed to fit everything she loves into her business and it all just 'works'!
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How Zee pursues multiple interests without feeling overwhelmed or overworked
- Where Zee finds creative inspiration
- How Zee presents an aligned and authentic brand online
- Zee’s insights on productivity, time management and planning – another of her passions
- How Zee adapted her business during challenging times and how she defines success
- Zee’s approach to setting boundaries and taking time for self-care
- Why her personal motto is ‘All of life's a risk’ – and how that spurs her on.
How you can connect with Zee:
- Website: https://www.zeescott.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zeescott__/
You may also love:
- Episode 65: Choosing your own adventure with Sarah Harney
- Episode 77: How systems and structure can support creativity in your small business with Nicole Smith
- Episode 37: Crafting a magnetic brand with Suz Chadwick
Important links:
- Free resources: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
- Register for my Quarterly Content Planning Workshop: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/quarterly-content-planning-workshop/
In this episode you’ll learn how best to prompt ChatGPT so you get a genuinely useful result – fast. These tips are a mix of things I’ve done, things I’ve learned and things I’ve researched – so you don’t have to. Whether you’re brand new to ChatGPT or you’ve been using it for a while, there’s something for everyone in this episode.
Let’s dive in!
You might also enjoy:
Ep #58 Get the lowdown on ChatGPT
Ep #46 8 tips for writing faster
Ep #40 My favourite copywriting tools, apps and tech
Important links:
- Register for my Quarterly Content Planning Workshop: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/quarterly-content-planning-workshop/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Tess McCabe is a graphic and website designer with two decades of experience driving results for her small business and solopreneur clients. She is known for her creative, clear and concept-driven design work, as well as her sound business advice, reliability, critical-thinking skills, and friendly, collaborative working style.
Tess also writes and designs books for creative professionals and small business owners through her publishing imprint Creative Minds. Her books, 'Self-Promotion Without Social Media', 'Conversations with Creative Women' and 'Graphic Design Speak' are available at bookstores around Australia. She loves good ideas and a strong cup of tea.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- Why writing and publishing physical books has been so important to Tess
- Why Tess has moved away from social media – and how she markets her business instead
- How Tess approaches the process of book writing – and what’s on the post-it note stuck to her computer
- The importance of finding a way to create that works from you
- How investing time in making 1:1 connections and developing various income streams has ensured the longevity of Tess’ business.
How you can connect with Tess:
- Websites:
- www.tessmccabe.com.au
- www.creativemindshq.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tessmccabe/
You may also love:
- Episode 60: Content experiences designed for humans with Tait Ischia
- Episode 45: Kindness online & off – Speaking friendly digital with Marie Nadal Sharma
- Episode 39: Control is not a dirty word with Ilana Kosakiewicz
Important links:
- Free resources: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Do you feel a mad panic hit when October hits? Like the year’s almost over and you’ve ‘run out of time?’
You’re not alone. This week I’m delving into the pressure we often feel at this time of year, whether we’re in small business or not. I’ll equip you with 12 strategies and tips to help you navigate this time of year with a sense of peace, optimism and calm.
Let’s dive in!
You might also enjoy:
Ep #84 Navigating uncertainty as a small business owner with Kaylene Langford from StartUp Creative
Ep #67 Small business without the burnout with Kristy Robinson
Ep #51 The messy business of being a human with Dr Jacqueline Baulch
Important links:
- Check out my brand new course: https://emmamcmillancopy.com/not-just-about-copy-foundations-course
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Kaylene Langford is a proud Guringai woman, passionate entrepreneur, coach, writer and speaker, and the founder and owner of StartUp Creative, a hugely popular online platform, podcast, and print magazine that educates, inspires and supports creative entrepreneurs and future innovators.
Kaylene has over a decade of experience coaching, educating and supporting individuals to identify and achieve their goals. Working with aspiring and established entrepreneurs, she genuinely believes everyone can achieve their potential and take control of their destiny.
Kaylene is a highly respected business coach, podcaster, educator and author whose work has given her unique insight into human behaviour. Her first book ‘How to Start a Side Hustle’ was published in July 2021 with Hardie Grant Books.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How a health-related wake-up call took Kay from corporate life to a love affair with entrepreneurship
- How Kay has continually shifted her energy to find new opportunities, adapt and grow her business
- Kay’s super-practical advice for business resilience in a tough economic climate
- Strategies for navigating uncertainty and fatigue as a small business owner
- How Kay stays creative – and how she measures the return on investment of these efforts.
How you can connect with Kaylene:
- Website: www.startupcreative.com.au
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startupcreative/
- Podcast ‘Startup Creative’
You may also love:
- Episode 65: Choosing your own adventure with Sarah Harney
- Episode 23: The realities of freelance life with Rebekah Lambert
- Episode 9: Connection – not perfection – with Kate O’Mealley
Important links:
- Free resources: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Jacqui Maloney is a public speaking and video confidence coach who works with professional women to build their confidence and perfect their storytelling so they own every stage they walk out on.
With a background in acting and voice over, Jacqui works on the performance side of your public speaking and video creation to really bring you and your message to life.
In this episode, Jacqui shares what makes a good communicator and gives loads of tips on how to present yourself in the best possible light. You’re going to want to take notes. Enjoy the episode!
How you can connect with Jacqui
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacquimaloneycoaching
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-maloney/
You might also enjoy:
Ep #80 Get visible in your business with podcast producer Cass Ponton
Ep #42 Is your mindset getting in the way? (solo)
Ep #7 Everyone has a story to tell with PR expert Erin Huckle
Important links:
- Join the membership: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
~ Register for my Quarterly Content Planning Workshop ~
I believe being honest about small business life serves us all.
So, this week I’m going behind the scenes of my recent marketing campaign with some real talk. You’ll hear about the good, the bad and the ugly, including my actual numbers and what I’d do differently next time.
Curious? Let’s dive in!
You might also enjoy:Ep #83 How creating strategic content can help you hit your small business goals
Ep #72 Ch-ch-ch-ch changes & introducing Not Just About Copy: The CommunityEp #34 My top 6 lessons from 6 years in business
Important links:
- Register for my Quarterly Content Planning Workshop: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/quarterly-content-planning-workshop/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
~ Register here for my Quarterly Content Planning Workshop ~
The copy and content you create in your small business can support your goals – or trick you into feeling productive without really moving the needle on what’s important to you.
So, let’s get real. It’s time to stop getting distracted by social media…and start being intentional. By taking some time to strategise, you’ll use your time more efficiently and effectively to create copy assets that will serve you now – and into the future.
If you’re ready to unlock the potential of strategic content creation and move towards some big hairy biz goals (increased revenue, brand awareness and more), listen in with a pen and paper at the ready. Let’s go!
You might also enjoy:
Ep #77 How systems and structure can help support creativity in your small business with Nicole Smith
Ep #75 Making content creation a priority with Viren Thakrar
Ep #69 An SEO strategy for your small business just makes sense with Remi Audette
Important links:
- Register for my Quarterly Content Planning Workshop: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/quarterly-content-planning-workshop/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Cass Ponton is the founder of podcast production group, Good Chat Media. Cass stumbled into podcasting almost by mistake, taking on a few odd jobs for clients in another business (in another life). She was as drawn to podcasting as she is drawn to her indoor jungle of house plants, so she dove into the big wide world of podcasting and never looked back.
When Cass is not managing the team or getting on the tools, you can find her at Melbourne’s best vegan cafes, chatting with impact-led businesswomen around the city and, of course, sipping too many oat lattes to count.
In this episode, Cass shares the value of podcasting as part of your small business visibility strategy. And even if you’ve got no plans to host a pod, keep listening because there’s so much value in being a guest on other podcasts. Cass shares loads of practical advice to help you showcase your best self in podcast conversations and other important considerations. Enjoy the episode!
How you can connect with Cass
- Website: https://www.goodchatmedia.co/
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/goodchatmedia
- Podcast ‘Good Chats’: https://www.goodchatmedia.co/podcast
You might also enjoy:
Ep #75 Making content creation a priority with Viren Thakrar
Ep #72 Ch-ch-ch-ch changes & introducing Not Just About Copy: The Community
Ep #47 The intimacy of storytelling with podcaster Sophie Walker
Important links:
- Join the membership: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
- Register for my Membership Open Day here *
Are you a service-based business looking to build your email list? Lead magnets can be such a great way to supercharge your lead gen efforts. Think about it. A valuable resource is a heck of lot more enticing than ‘Sign up to my newsletter!’ And once you’ve got more leads on your list, they’re a captive audience for your offers.
In this episode, you’ll get seven simple yet effective lead magnet ideas your ideal audience will love specifically tailored to service businesses.
I’ll guide you through each lead magnet idea, how it works, the pros and cons and then send you on your way. Once you’ve decided which one – or more – to implement, you’ll want to get started right away. That list isn’t going to grow itself! Let’s get stuck in.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #36 How to write or revamp your welcome email sequence
Ep #38 Copy assets checklist for your small biz
Ep #40 My favourite copywriting tools, apps and tech
Important links:
- Register for my Membership Open Day: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-membership-open-day/
- Get my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
As a small business owner, the thought of writing your own bio can feel like a daunting task. What to share, what to hold back, first or third person? Cue analysis paralysis.
In this episode, we’ll delve into the art of crafting a small biz bio that truly represents you and your business. You’ll get loads of practical tips you can put in place right away (and they’re applicable to any kind of bio writing – About pages, pitches, and more!) From understanding your ideal audience to how to structure a bio, you’ll be guided through the process step by step.
Don't let the fear of imperfection get it your way. You can craft a bio you love and that you’re proud to share. Let’s do it!
You might also enjoy:~ Ep #49 Find your voice and tell your story – at any age with Sandy Lowres
~ Ep #47 The intimacy of storytelling with podcaster Sophie Walker
~ Ep #26 5 About page essentials (solo)
Important links:
- Register for my Membership Open Day: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-membership-open-day/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Nicole Smith is a virtual COO, business operations specialist, procedures & systems designer and ‘ClickUp Queen’ from The Artisans Business Solutions.
In 2019, Nicole moved away from a corporate career as chief of staff to support business owners to develop their unique working style and design a business that aligns with the life they want to be living. She helps businesses bridge the gap between what they are doing and what they want to do in their day-to-day operations.
Nicole sees systems as the dance between people and IT, syncing various moving parts with the individual needs of each business.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How developing solid foundations helps you to write content with ease
- How user experience relates to both systems design and copywriting - and how to harness it to engage your audience
- How Nicole approaches content repurposing in her business to save time and reinforce important messages, and
- How to tap into your unique working - and writing - style to develop systems and processes that actually suit you.
How you can connect with Nicole:
- Website: http://theartisans.com.au
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/smithnicoled/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/theartisanssolutions
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theartisanssolutions/
- Podcast ‘Take Control With Nicole’: https://theartisans.com.au/podcast/
You may also love:
- Episode 67: Small business minus the burnout with Kristy Robinson
- Episode 39: Control is not a dirty word with Ilana Kosakiewicz
- Episode 8: How to create content without burning out (solo)
Important links
- Join the waitlist for Not Just About Copy: The Community: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
- Join the membership waitlist here. *
Solo business life can be lonely, so one of my favourite ways to create content is in co-writing sessions. It’s especially great for tackling those bits of copy I’ve been putting off for a while (sound familiar?).
In this episode, you’ll find out exactly how to get the most out from a co-writing session or arrangement and what you can use this time for. If you’ve been co-writing for a while, you’ll get some tips to supercharge your efforts. If you’re not already a co-writing convert, there’s a good chance you will be by the end of this episode!
You might also enjoy:
Ep #74 How co-writing can supercharge your content writing productivity - and confidence
Ep #72 Ch-ch-ch-ch changes and introducing Not Just About Copy: The Community
Ep #38 Copy assets checklist for your small biz
Important links:
- Join the membership waitlist: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Viren Thakrar is the Founder of In The Game. He works with businesses to increase engagement in a hybrid world by getting teams to work better together. He's most interested in supporting teams to come together more frequently in a meaningful way using games. Viren has more than 15 years of experience using applied psychology to improve team culture and performance. He loves video/board games, listening to and DJing house music, running and watching soccer.
In this energising episode, you’ll hear:
- How uncovering psychology held the key to Viren’s future career
- The characteristics of dysfunctional teams and what that can mean for business
- How serious games can help people build trust and interpersonal communication
- How Viren approaches planning in his business and how copy coaching fits into his 2023 marketing strategy
- Where Viren gets all his content ideas from, and
- How having a bare minimum frequency mindset has transformed his relationship with content creation.
How you can connect with Viren:
- Website: https://www.inthegame.com.au/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/virenthakrar/
Resources mentioned:
- Masters of Scale - podcast
- Startup Therapy - podcast
- Think Big, Start Small, Move Fast - book
You may also love:
- Episode 51: The messy business of being a human with Jacqueline Baulch
- Episode 27: Cultivating an explorer’s mindset with Kate Richardson
Important links
- Join Not Just About Copy: The Community: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Join the membership waitlist here.
As a small business owner, it’s hard to make your own content a priority. Time constraints, confidence and perfectionism can all get it the way - but there’s an opportunity cost. If you’re not creating and sharing content regularly, you’re not communicating with your audience - to build know, like and trust.
Sustainable, realistic and enjoyable processes can positively impact how - and how often - you create purposeful content to support the growth and health of your business. And my favourite way to create content is co-writing.
In this episode, you’ll find out how co-writing can supercharge your productivity and confidence when it comes to content writing for your business. It must just be the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #72 Ch-ch-ch-ch changes & introducing Not Just About Copy: The Community
Ep #67 Small business minus the burnout with Kristy Robinson
Ep #38 Copy assets checklist for your small biz
Important links:
- Join the membership waitlist: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/not-just-about-copy-the-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
LIMITED OFFER ~ ENDS MAY 8 at midnight: Become a founding member of Not Just About Copy: The Community: https://emmamcmillancopy.thrivecart.com/not-just-about-copy-the-community/
Morgan Cataldo dedicates her professional life to developing and advocating for participatory practice and peer education as essential levers for creating true, lasting, powershifting systemic change in services for historically excluded communities.
In her independent consultancy practice, morgan&co, Morgan advises, coaches and consults with organisations across Australia who seek to understand the role of power in their everyday work and how they can design and shape more meaningful policies, programs, and services by partnering with people with lived experience relevant to their purpose.
Morgan holds a degree in Social Science and serves on the Board of The Constellation Project.
In this very powerful episode, Morgan and I explore the intricacies of language, listening and interpretation. We dance from poetry to power and everything in between, as Morgan weaves in some fascinating stories, memorable quotes and a few truth bombs. It really is a must-listen.
How you can connect with Morgan:
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/morganleecataldo/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/morgancataldo
Resources mentioned:
- The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows by John Koenig
- Poetry: Mary Oliver, Jean Cocteau, Audre Lorde
- TED Talk - The danger of the singular narrative by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
You may also love
- Episode 3: Why we need a listening revolution with Dusk Liney
- Episode 7: Everyone has a story to tell with PR expert Erin Huckle
- Episode 19: Unlearning and untangling to reconnect with ourselves with Amanda Freeman
Important links
- LIMITED OFFER: Become a founding member of Not Just About Copy: The Community: https://emmamcmillancopy.thrivecart.com/not-just-about-copy-the-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
LIMITED OFFER: Become a founding member of Not Just About Copy: The Community here.
Quite a personal episode for you this week. An update on changes at Emma McMillan Copy HQ, your exclusive invitation to join me for something very special and some of my latest reading and listening recommendations.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #70 How to know when it’s time to take a content writing break in your business
Ep #52 Why it’s really not just about copy
Ep #28 Get to know your host, Emma McMillan
Important links:
- LIMITED OFFER: Become a founding member of Not Just About Copy: The Community: https://emmamcmillancopy.thrivecart.com/not-just-about-copy-the-community/
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Jenn Donovan is a marketing thought leader, change-maker, coach and mentor for small businesses, international keynote speaker, best-selling author and podcaster.
She is the founder of Social Media and Marketing Australia, founder of the extremely successful community Facebook group - Buy From a Bush Business (currently 367,000 members) and the co-founder of Spend With Us - Australia's answer to Amazon but only for rural and regional small businesses.
Jenn takes her clients from invisible to invincible using strategic marketing principles and is also a community leader, and a community believer. She’s on a mission to ensure the lost art of human to human marketing and community are seeded firmly in everyone’s marketing strategy.
Jenn lives on a farm in the Riverina of NSW, with husband, children and plenty of animals.
In this episode, Jenn shares lots of stress-free practical marketing advice for small business owners, including what’s working right now in 2023. You’ll find out why human to human marketing and community should be seeded firmly in your marketing strategy. This is a no-nonsense, jargon-free episode with the very generous and wise Jenn. Enjoy!
How you can connect with Jenn:
- Website: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenn-donovan/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenndonovan.au
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/
- Podcast: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/podcast
You may also love
- Episode 16: Stress-free marketing tactics to grow your audience with Hayley Robertson
- Episode 32: Your mid-year content marketing reflection
- Episode 62: Create an irresistible marketing campaign with Mia Fileman
Work with Emma
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
I don’t know if it’s something about the colder weather in Melbourne, a growing disenchantment with social media or what but I’ve been finding it harder and harder to carve out time to create content for my business. Perhaps you can relate. Today I’m going to unpack whether taking a content writing break is ever a good idea and what to put in place if this is something you’re thinking about doing.
Plus, your chance to win! Leave a podcast review between now and the end of April and go in the draw to win a 60-minute copy coaching session with me. I’ll be selecting one lucky winner. If you’re on Apple podcasts, just scroll to the bottom of the show page and write a review. If you’re an Android user, you can send me a DM over @emmamcmillancopy on Instagram. Good luck!
You might also enjoy:
Ep #32 Your mid-year content marketing reflection
Ep #28 Get to know your host, Emma McMillan
Ep #8 How to create content without burning out
Important links:
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Work with me: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Essential content repurposing checklist: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Remi Audette is a former corporate SEO specialist turned SEO agency owner. Her agency Sunday Best Digital, helps SMEs across Australia grow their online visibility through brand-building SEO.
In this episode, Remi explains how SEO can help small business owners build their brand. She unpacks ‘topical authority’, the metrics that matter - and, frankly, a lot of what she talks about just makes sense. If you’re sick of feeling bamboozled by SEO but you need to know why you should care - and you should - you’re in the right place.
How you can connect with Remi:
- Website: https://www.sundaybestdigital.com.au/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sunday-best-digital-agency
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sundaybestdigital/
You may also love
- Episode 64: Content pillars 101: Everything you need to know
- Episode 22: Where should I use keywords in my copy?
- Episode 20: Easy ways to generate SEO-friendly content ideas
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Recently I talked about using FAQ as a secret content weapon. So, today I’m taking my own advice! This is an ask me anything episode prompted by what my audience has been asking me to talk about on the podcast. Listen up because there are some juicy questions ahead…
Plus, your chance to win! Leave a podcast review between now and the end of April and go in the draw to win a 60-minute copy coaching session with me. I’ll be selecting one lucky winner. If you’re on Apple podcasts, just scroll to the bottom of the show page and write a review. If you’re an Android user, you can send me a DM over @emmamcmillancopy on Instagram. Good luck!
You might also enjoy:
Ep #40 My favourite copywriting tools, apps and tech
Ep #42 Is your mindset getting in the way?
Ep #20 Easy ways to generate SEO-friendly content ideas
Ep #8 How to create content without burning out
Important links:
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Work with me: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Essential content repurposing checklist: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Kristy Robinson is a small business coach & consultant, speaker and podcast host. She’s also a lover of podcasts, personality tests and pounding pavements with her dog, Chia.
Through her coaching programs and the Run Your Business Like a Boss podcast, Kristy helps small business owners wade through the messy middle to create a sustainable business they genuinely love. Kristy uses her vast experience in operations, coaching, leadership and entrepreneurship to help her clients identify 'their version of success', set meaningful goals that align with their vision and ultimately grow their business, 'their way'.
Kristy is a mum of two, wife and founder of two businesses and she understands the entrepreneurship rollercoaster: Doing all the things and working all the hours, with too much overwhelm and too little fulfilment. Kristy’s conversations and strategies help small business owners take things to the next level, without the hustle and burnout.
In this episode, Kristy shares how her business has evolved into one that brings joy, meaning and purpose. She also peels back the curtain on her finely tuned content repurposing process. Kristy shares so much practical advice for small business owners who do a lot of their own content creation. Enjoy our conversation!
How you can connect with Kristy:
- Website: www.kristyrobinson.com.au
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brisbane-business-coach/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristyrobinson_consulting/
- Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/run-your-business-like-a-boss/id1576687850
You may also love
- Episode 23: The realities of freelance life with Rebekah Lambert
- Episode 19: Unlearning & untangling to reconnect with ourselves with Amanda Freeman
- Episode 8: How to create content without burning out
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Do you find yourself answering the same things over and over again for your prospects? If so, there’s a chance you’re not maximising the power of the humble frequently asked question (FAQ). Writing FAQ for your business will lead to a better user experience, but that’s just the beginning.
In this episode, you’ll find out why you need FAQ (including some reasons you may not have thought of), easy ways to create them and discover where to use them. You won’t want to miss the gems in this episode.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #22 Where should I use SEO keywords in my copy?
Ep #20 Easy ways to generate SEO-friendly content ideas
Ep #8 How to create content without burning out
Important links:
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Work with me: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Sarah Harney is an entrepreneur, creative business consultant and audio producer. She offers coaching, consulting and publishing services that support small business owners to create and build with curiosity, courage and self-kindness. Sarah is your creative director, your action partner and your biggest cheerleader. She is a self-adventure guide, for when you want someone to hold your hand (and heart) and re-ignite your spark.
She’s also a toddler mum, writer, maker and proud ADHD-er, living on beautiful Kaurna Country.
Sarah is a creative, courageous, thoughtful and inspiring entrepreneur. An entrepreneur from way back, she shares some hard-won wisdom with a good dose of humour thrown in. Part conversation, part coaching call, this episode with Sarah is a must for any small business owner or entrepreneur.
Resources mentioned:
Brene Brown 'The Gifts of Imperfection'
Emsolation with Em Rusciano - Interview with Ben Crowe
How you can connect with Sarah:
- Website: sarahharney.com
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sarahharney
- Instagram: @sarahharney_
You may also love:
- Episode 51: The messy business of being a human with Dr Jacqueline Baulch
- Episode 52: Why it’s really not just about copy (solo)
- Episode 47: The intimacy of storytelling with podcaster Sophie Walker
Work with Emma:
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Are you flying by the seat of your pants when it comes to creating content for your business? There is another - better - way. Content pillars are the tool you need in your small biz copy toolkit to make the content writing process infinitely more purposeful and fun.
In this episode, I’ll cover what content pillars are, why you need them, how to create them and how to implement them. Creating content pillars was an absolute game-changer for me and I can wait to share this episode with you.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #63 Learn to love LinkedIn with Kate Merryweather
Ep #44 Pasta, pinot and pilates - A brand chat with Darby Lyndon
Ep #38 Copy assets checklist for your small biz (solo)
Important links:
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Work with me: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Kate Merryweather is a redheaded LinkedIn coach who believes that LinkedIn can transform lives — if you have the right strategy. She creates custom LinkedIn strategies to help her clients effortlessly attract inbound leads. Her focus is on a 0% hustle strategy. Instead, she teaches clients to share content that turns fans into followers and followers into buyers. Kate lives in Melbourne with her sensible husband, three daughters and creatively-named ginger cat, Ginger.
Kate and I first met many years ago when we were both full-time copywriters. In this episode, Kate shares her career transition from copywriter to LinkedIn coach and gives loads of digestible and honest insights into the platform we’d love to love. She also shares some great stories and learning experiences. If you’re at all interested in LinkedIn for your business or personal brand, Kate makes it feel like a fun, interesting and valuable space to be. I hope you enjoy my conversation with Kate.
How you can connect with Kate:
- Website: www.katemerryweather.com.au
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemerryweather/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katemerryweatherlinkedincoach
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katemerryweather__/
You may also love:
- Episode 29: Stop stressing and guessing about socials with Erika McInerney
- Episode 37: Crafting a magnetic brand with Suz Chadwick
- Episode 45: Kindness online & off: Speaking friendly digital with Marie Nadal Sharma
Work with Emma:
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Besides having earned the nickname "The Campaign Lady", Mia Fileman is an expert global marketing strategist and the founder of Campaign Del Mar. You'll love her hard hitting, no BS marketing expertise honed by 20 years in the industry. She is a widely published writer for publications including Social Media Examiner, Mumbrella, Marketing Mag, Smart Company and Better Marketing.
The first decade of her career was spent in brand management roles for global consumer brands Vegemite, Kraft, Maybelline and BIC in France. Now? She's a full-time trainer, mentor and consultant that works with you to drive your business results. Strap in for your journey to marketing glory. I recently connected with Mia and found her energy so infectious I had to invite her on to the podcast to share her campaign wisdom with you. I know you’re going to love this chat with Mia.
How you can connect with Mia:
- Website: https://www.campaigndelmar.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/campaign_del_mar/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miafileman/
You may also love:
- Episode 16: Stress-free marketing tactics to grow your business with Hayley Robertson
- Episode 44: Pasta, pilates and pinot: A brand chat with Darby Lyndon
- Episode 60: Content experiences designed for humans with Tait Ischia
Work with Emma
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
I often hear this from my community: ‘I’m stuck on my tone of voice.’
As a small business owner, it’s important for you to have a tone of voice that’s clear and consistent. It’s what helps you create a personal connection with your audience and prospects across all your communication channels.
In this episode, I’ll share my super simple 20-minute tone of voice hack. You’ll get clearer and more confident about exactly what your tone of voice is - and isn’t - so you can write and share content without second-guessing yourself.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #50 What’s better - slick or authentic copy?
Ep #49 Find your voice and tell your story at any age with Sandy Lowres
Ep #10 Writing about ourselves is hard - here’s how to make it easier
Important links:
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Work with me: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Join the Co-writing Content Crew (Doors close Feb 6!)
Tait is a copywriter, content strategist, and content experience designer from Melbourne, Australia. When he started out, he wrote radio, print, and TV ads. Now he plans, writes, and manages large website projects for big organisations with complex needs. He’s worked for gigantic multinationals, small businesses, arts organisations, ad agencies, start-ups, and the government. He is currently the content director at Today, a human-centred design consultancy that focuses on projects with social and environmental impact.
Tait also wrote the copywriting book for small business, Copywrong to Copywriter. We’re very aligned in both wanting small businesses to clarify their message and communicate it clearly to their audience. In this episode, Tait shares practical advice and tips on better copywriting and we explore two really valuable concepts - collaborative writing and gathering feedback and information to inform your message. I bought Tait’s pink book years ago now and have read it many times - it’s a digestible masterclass in how to write for humans. I know you’ll enjoy my chat with Tait.
How you can connect with Tait:
- Website: http://taitischia.com, http://copygui.de
- Instagram: @copywrongtocopywriter
- Twitter: @taitischia (twitter)
You may also love:
- Episode 25: Copy is conversation with Kirsty Fanton
- Episode 15: On bravery and boundaries with Kate Toon
- Episode 13: How to cultivate curiosity with Jo Simpson
Work with Emma:
- Join the Co-writing Content Crew (Doors close Feb 6!): https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/co-writing-content-crew/
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In this episode, producer Sarah puts me back in the hot seat so you can find out why I developed my group program, the Co-writing Content Crew.
We explore why it’s so different from other programs out there, what it’s designed to help you with and why I’ll always keep it at an accessible price point.
I break down each of the five pillars in my framework, chat through how the program shakes down and explain how my background perfectly positions me to do this work with small business.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #52 Why it’s really not just about copy
Ep #42 Is your mindset getting in the way?
Ep #28 Get to know your host, Emma McMillan
Important links:
- Join the Co-writing Content Crew now - starts Feb 10
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In this episode you’ll learn all about ChatGPT - what it is, why the hype and find out how it can help - and hinder - your writing.
I delve into the pros and cons of this language model, answer the question of whether it will replace human copywriting, and share tips on how to best train the tool to understand your writing style.
I’ll also share my personal experience using ChatGPT - the good, the bad and the ugly.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #50 What’s better - slick or authentic copy?
Ep #46 8 tips for writing faster
Ep #40 My favourite copywriting tools, apps and tech
Important links:
- Join the Co-writing Content Crew - starts Feb 10
- Sign up for my weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Jump on the waitlist for the* Co-writing Content Crew, next round Feb '23.***
Over the Australian summer break, I’m bringing you five of your favourite episodes from the past 12 months. This is the final one of the five - and it’s my cracking chat with Nami Clarke all about feel good sales pages. Listening back to this conversation recently, there are a few things that really stand out to me that I want to hone in on:
- When it comes to career evolution, nothing is lost or wasted when we 'change our mind’. In fact, Nami says that for her, it felt messy and like losing something, but with hindsight she acknowledges that she was able to apply her existing skills in a different way.
- When talking about sales, Nami shares the importance of building great relationships that come from a place of support and service. But that when it comes to selling, we need to differentiate our service from us - because they’re not the same thing.
- And my favourite quote from this episode: 'A sales page shouldn’t try to sell to everyone with a credit card and a pulse.’ This is because you want to be drawing in aligned clients who the service/product is a good fit for. The best kind of marketing attracts like-minded clients and repels wrong fit clients - and this is a good thing.
Here’s a little reflection for you to ponder as you listen to this episode - Are you being clear enough in your marketing about who your service or product is NOT FOR, as well as who it IS. For example, I love to talk about boundaries in my copy so people understand I’m not who to contact if they’re looking for a quick or cheap fix, for instance. You might be wanting to focus on sustainable businesses - in which case, are you explicitly saying so to attract more of these clients and repel others? Can I suggest having a look through your website and recent social content to assess this - or swap with a friend and do a little audit for each other.
Now a quick little reminder my group program the Content Co-writing Crew is kicking off for the next round on Feb 10. Doors will be opening next week. You can find out exactly when and get first dibs on a spot by signing up for my emails. You can do that on my website or by downloading one of the resources on my free resources page.
In the meantime, enjoy my conversation with Nami - and I’ll be back in your ears again next Monday.
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Jump on the waitlist for the* Co-writing Content Crew, next round Feb '23.***Over the Australian summer break, I’m bringing you five of your favourite episodes from the past 12 months. This time it’s a solo coaching episode with me - all about you. See, I get that writing about yourself is hard. It can feel vulnerable, confronting, or even self-indulgent. But the good news is, it doesn’t have to. In this episode, I share some strategies to help you get out of your own way - and start to write from a place that feels authentic and free flowing.
I recorded this episode way back in February 2022. Listening back, here are a few things that really stand out:
- To establish genuine know, like and trust with your audience, you need to share about yourself - your values/way you work are a great place to start - they infuse all the content I create, whether that’s for my website, social media or podcast.
- You don’t have to - and probably shouldn’t - share everything about yourself. What you’re comfortable sharing will change over time.
- Often the best words we can use to talk about ourselves - are, in fact, not our words - but the words of our clients or customers. It’s then a matter of infusing this ‘Voice of Customer’ language into your copywriting
With that in mind, here’s a little activity to consider as you listen to this episode - What social proof do you already have that you can comb through and pull out key phrases/themes from? Have you collected Google reviews or shared a feedback form? If you have this kind of data already, it’s worth pulling it into a document or spreadsheet so you can look at it all together. If you don’t yet have any of this ‘voice of customer’ data and you need to gather some feedback or testimonials - it’s better late than never. Once you’ve finished this mini episode, I encourage you listen to my chat with Kirsty Fanton - which is episode 25 - where we dig into how to ask for this feedback & the best way to frame your questions so you get useful responses.
I hope you enjoy this episode - and I’ll be back in your ears again soon.
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Over the Australian summer break, I’m bringing you five of your favourite episodes from the past 12 months. This time it’s my frank and honest chat with digital entrepreneur Kate Toon.
Listening back to this conversation recently, there are a few things that really stand out to me that I want to hone in on:
The first is that it’s ok to keep on keeping on. For instance, if you’ve had a year of building, is next year time to focus on consolidation?
Another important thing Kate shares, is the need for us to lean into acceptance and self-compassion. She asks the question, what can you say ‘not now’ to? That every ‘yes’ you say, is a ‘no’ to something else?
The final thing I want to mention is the redefining of what success and productivity looks like. Kate reveals her measures for these - and also how they’ve evolved over time.
Here’s a little reflection for you to ponder as you listen to this episode - What are your success metrics when it comes to work and life? Is it being able to step away from work for a couple of decent blocks each year? Is it finding time to prioritise your physical and mental wellbeing? It is the number of clients you’re impacting? There’s no wrong answer - it’s what feels right to you.
Enjoy the episode and I hope you’re enjoying some down time. I’m hanging out with my family and friends, and back on deck from the 9th Jan.
A little reminder my group program the CCC is kicking off for the next round on Feb 10. The best way to find out when the doors are open is by signing up for my emails. You can do that on the HP of my website emmmamcmillancopy.com or by downloading one of the resources on my free resources page.
Enjoy my conversation with Kate - and I’ll be back in your ears again soon.
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Jump on the waitlist for the* Co-writing Content Crew, next round Feb '23.***
Well, hello there and welcome to the podcast. Over the Australian summer break, I’m bringing you five of your favourite episodes from the past 12 months. This time it’s a little bit of a get to know you with me, your host.
Back in June 2022, I invited my friend and collaborator, Ilana Kosakiewicz to interview me on the podcast. Listening back, here are a few things that struck me:
I talk in this episode about craving a break from teaching and why I stepped away from education in 2017. But it’s interesting to reflect on the fact that I’ve come really come full circle in a way. I’m off the tools next year, stepping into my role as coach and mentor, guiding and supporting individuals and teams to write and communicate better.
Ilana and I also talk about safety nets and risk-taking - which might resonate with where you’re at right now, especially if you’ve recently changed direction or you’re thinking about it. I share my experience - the good, the bad and the ugly.
The final thing I want to call out is the idea of following your curiosity and where that can lead you. In many ways, this is how I’ve evolved my business - but it’s also my approach to life. I love to ask myself the questions, what am I interested in? What could this look like? What’s missing for me right now?
With that in mind, here’s a little reflection for you to ponder as you listen to this episode - What is it that you’re curious about? And what could you explore further during 2023? When it comes to life beyond work, I’ve really missed singing and performing so I’ve signed up to a choir for term 1 next year. I can’t wait to see where this little adventure takes me and the people I’ll get to meet and make music with. When it comes to the business, I’m curious to explore copy coaching in the workplace and finding out how I can help impact teams to write & communicate with more confidence, better processes and a deeper understanding of how copywriting works.
Enjoy the episode and I hope you’re enjoying some down time right now. I’m hanging out with my family and friends, and back on deck from the 9th Jan.
A little reminder my group program the CCC is kicking off for the next round on Feb 10. The best way to find out when the doors are open is by signing up for my emails. You can do that on the homepage of my website emmmamcmillancopy.com or by downloading one of the resources on my free resources page.
I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did - and I’ll be back in your ears again soon.
Meet guest host Ilana Kosakiewicz: https://ilanak.com.au/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Jump on the waitlist for the* Co-writing Content Crew, next round Feb '23.***
Over the Australian summer break, I am bringing you five of your favourite episodes from the past 12 months. The first of these is my interview with career coach Kate Richardson, which was an extremely popular podcast episode last year. Enjoy!
Kate is a corporate runaway and executive coach who now runs a career development and training practice that helps people build the confidence and skills to succeed in a 21st century career. Kate partners with organisations to deliver programs that elevate the careers of their people. She's especially passionate about working with professionals from around the globe to help them redesign their career and find what's next.
Kate’s own career transition was the catalyst for her current career. As a career changer myself, I can really relate to Kate’s story and mission. But if you’ve ever experienced change or transition in any area of your life, you’ll find lots of value in this episode.
We talk about:
- The difference between skills and strengths - and why we need to understand this
- The complexity of transition, which is wrapped up in identity and our sense of self
- The power of open questions and a simple flip you may never have considered
- Why self-doubt and fear are part of any change - and how you can respond to that
- Reframing the ‘elevator pitch’ with a whole new lens (you’re going to love it!)
- Checking in with our thoughts, beliefs and assumptions and looking for data, and
- How ex-corporate Kate writes authentically from the heart as a small business owner and her process for finding her voice.
Kate is full of knowledge and practical tips for career changers and small business owners in this chat - I’d love to hear what resonates with you once you’ve had a listen. I know you’ll enjoy this conversation with Kate Richardson.
How you can connect with Kate:
- Website: https://www.katerichardson.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katerichardson.co
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerichardson/
You may also love: Episode 8: How to create content without burning out
Resource mentioned: The Long Game by Dorie Clark
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today I’m reflecting on the overarching theme of the podcast this year - that it’s not just about copy. Solid copywriting skills are foundational, but there are four other pillars or principles that underpin effective written communication.
Find out what they are and how you can use them to your advantage.
Enjoy and happy writing!
You might also enjoy:
Episode 42 - Is your mindset getting in the way? (solo)
Episode 4 - How to learn to love a blank page (solo)
Important links:
- Work together: 1:1 copy coaching, the Co-writing Content Crew or bespoke workshops
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
The next round of the Co-writing Content Crew will be kicking off on Feb 10 for 8 weeks
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Dr Jacqueline Baulch.
Dr Jacqueline is a clinical psychologist and the director of Inner Melbourne Clinical Psychology. She is passionate about shifting the "hush-hush" atmosphere surrounding mental illness, emotions and vulnerability. Jacqueline believes that open and real conversations can spark hope and healing, and help us to feel less alone in this messy business of being a human.
In this episode of Not Just About Copy, you’ll hear about:
- Jacq’s deep passion for mental health and open conversations
- Her process for thought untangling, content planning and writing
- When Jacq trusts her own writing process and how she knows when to intervene
- The different kinds of content she creates to engage people in mental health discussions
- How Jacq has developed a tone of voice for writing content on behalf of her team
- The ways in which the online space has become more vulnerable, raw and honest over the past few years - and what this means for us as humans
- How the Co-writing Content Crew helped support her writing practice and kept her accountable.
This conversation is a bit special and different. Usually I conduct my interviews over Zoom but Jacq and I recorded this one in person while on a business retreat in Daylesford, Melbourne. It turned out to be the perfect setting for the intimate themes of our conversation. I love talking about mental health and was thrilled Jacq said yes to this chat. There are so many gems in this conversation. Enjoy!
How you can connect with Jacqueline
- Website: https://www.innermelbpsychology.com.au/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melbpsych/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjacquelinebaulch/
You may also love
- Episode 19: Unlearning and untangling to reconnect with ourselves with Amanda Freeman
- Episode 3: Why we need a listening revolution with Dusk Liney
- Episode 8: How to create content without burning out (solo)
Resources mentioned:
- Scattered Minds by Gabor Marté
- No Bad Parts by Richard C. Schwartz
Work with Emma
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- The Co-writing Content Crew: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/co-writing-content-crew/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today I’m asking the question, what’s better - slick or authentic copy? And can you have both?
You’ll hear about the pros and cons of each and explore what might work best for your business - whether you’re a company of one or part of a large team.
Enjoy and happy writing!
You might also enjoy:
Episode 38 - Copy assets checklist for your small biz (solo)
Episode 25: Copy is conversation with launch copywriter Kirsty Fanton
Important links:
- Work together: 1:1 copy coaching, group program and workshops - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Free copywriting resources - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Sandy Lowres.
Sandy is a pro-ageing advocate and the founder & Creative Director of the award-winning platform Wb40 - Women Beyond Forty, sharing the hard-won wisdom of women 40, 50, 60 and beyond. Sandy is the host of The Good Girl Confessional Podcast and the co-host of Alex The Seal Podcast.
In this episode of Not Just About Copy, you’ll hear about:
- Why Sandy created the Wb40 platform and the unexpected benefits of the journey
- How we can embrace ageing - life really does begin at 40
- The getting of wisdom and self-confidence and stepping into power post-50
- Sandy’s creative process for writing and idea generation
- Why avoiding so-called ‘taboo’ topics doesn’t serve anyone
- The tremendous power of storytelling and language in helping others be seen, and
- Why each of us deserves to have our story told.
It was an absolute privilege speaking with Sandy for this conversation. I met her several months ago at an event and just knew she would be such a great guest for this podcast. I know you’re going to love it. Please take 30 seconds and share it with a friend to spread the word.
How you can connect with Sandy:
- Website: https://wb40.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenbeyondforty, https://www.instagram.com/thegoodgirlconfessional, https://www.instagram/alex_the_seal_podcast
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenbeyondforty, https://www.facebook.com/thegoodgirlconfessional
- Resources mentioned:
- Book - ‘Double Lives’ by Kate McCaffrey
- Book - ‘Madly, Deeply: the Alan Rickman Diaries’
- Podcast - A little bit culty with Sarah and Nippy
- Poem - Maya Angelou ‘Phenomenal Woman’
You may also love:
- Episode 46: The intimacy of storytelling with podcaster Sophie Walker
- Episode 15: On bravery and boundaries with Kate Toon
- Episode 11: Not the loudest person in the room with Danielle Price
Work with Emma:
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today I’m sharing one of the most powerful questions you can ask when researching and writing copy.
Prospects need to understand what problem your product or service solves, how it addresses their challenges, and supports their hopes or goals. Because if they don’t, they won’t take that action. Once you know the question, it will transform the way you write your copy.
Enjoy and happy writing!
You might also enjoy:
Episode 30 - Common mistakes you’re making with your copy - and how to fix them (solo)
Episode 21 - Good things don’t just sell themselves with jewellery designer Anu Sawnhey
Important links:
- Work together: 1:1 copy coaching + website copy audits
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Sophie Walker.
Sophie Walker is the founder and host of Australian Birth Stories, the podcast with over 10 million downloads that’s endorsed by the Australian College of Midwives. Sophie has a Masters in Public Health and a passion for encouraging women to actively prepare for birth and postpartum. Beyond the microphone she’s a mum to three rambunctious boys who create a lot of joy and mess.
This is not a conversation about Sophie’s birth story - for that and 300 other birth stories - check out Sophie’s brilliant podcast if that’s your thing. In this episode of Not Just About Copy, you’ll hear about:
- Sophie’s transition from working in public health to podcast host and what prompted her to start Australian Birth Stories
- How Sophie grew her podcast to 10 million downloads from a listenership of two
- Sophie’s mission for the work she does and the impact she hopes to make when it comes to birth education
- The challenges - and importance of - staying relevant, inclusive and up-to-date in such an ever-changing landscape
- Sophie’s writing partner, how their collaboration works and how they’ve grown Australian Birth Stories together with a shared language
- The challenges Sophie faces with writing including behind the scenes of her first book.
I’ve known Sophie now for close to two decades and it’s been an absolute privilege to watch her business and personal journey unfold. Whether you’re a parent - or not - I know you’ll find wisdom and inspiration in this episode. If you love it, please make sure you take 30 seconds at the end to leave a review on Apple podcasts - I read and appreciate them all.
How you can connect with Sophie:
- Website: https://australianbirthstories.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/australianbirthstories/
- Resources: The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth & The Birth Class
You may also love:
- Episode 3: Why we need a listening revolution with Dusk Liney
- Episode 7: Everyone has a story to tell with Erin Huckle
- Episode 28: Get to know your host, Emma McMillan
Work with Emma:
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today I’m answering a listener's question. If you’ve got a copy or small business question on your mind, you can submit it via Instagram @emmamcmillancopy or my website contact form. In this episode, you’ll hear 8 tips that I hope will help you write faster and with more flow so writing doesn’t have to rule your day. Enjoy and happy writing!
You might also enjoy:
Episode 40 - My favourite copywriting tools, tech and appsEpisode 6 - How to proofread your own workEpisode 8 - How to create content without burning out
Important links:
- Work together: 1:1 copy coaching + website copy audits
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Book a discovery call - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Marie Nadal Sharma.
Marie is the founder and dedicated change-maker at Them You & Me, a digital marketing agency speaking friendly digital. She is passionate about using technology for good, emphasising the 'what' before the 'how’ when enabling business owners with the digital skills and confidence to understand, implement and grow their business online, their way.
Marie is also a kind warrior and life coach, supporting people to align who they are – in life, at work and in the digital space. She is an open-hearted conversation enthusiast, aiming to make people feel truly heard, seen, supported and encouraged. She advocates for more kindness online, self-care in the digital space, and believes in leaving people better than she found them.
Marie is a traveller and adventurer at heart, keen shutterbug, gourmet foodie, design aficionado, enthusiastic salsa dancer and a disciplined boxer. If you think of yellow and croissants, you just may come across her!
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- How Marie feeds her curiosity and slows down to pay attention to what’s important
- The challenges of connecting with others in our distracted, busy world
- How Marie keeps things meaningful and authentic online
- How you can create intentional content that works for your business - and matters to you
- The concept of friendly digital and how Marie grew a successful digital marketing agency despite not having a technology background
- How Marie helps small business owners dig deeper into understanding what they truly want
- Marie’s recent journey into coaching and her surprising plans for the future.
Marie’s zest for life is truly infectious and she epitomises kindness - both online and off. I loved this conversation with Marie and I know you will too. If you do, make sure you take 30 seconds to leave a review on Apple podcasts - I read and appreciate them all.
How you can connect with Marie
- Website: www.themyouandme.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/marienadalsharma
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/marienadalsharma
You may also love
- Episode 11: Not the loudest person in the room - giving everyone a voice with Danielle Price
- Episode 14: How to cultivate curiosity with Jo Simpson
- Episode 19: Unlearning and untangling to reconnect with ourselves with Amanda Freeman
Work with Emma
- Get the weekly email: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
~ If you’re listening to this the day it comes out, doors are closing tonight October 10 for my 8-week online group copy coaching program, the Co-writing Content Crew. We’re kicking off this Friday, October 14. Will I see you there? Join here. ~
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Darby Lyndon.
Darby is a brand strategist and content marketer, passionate about turning great businesses into irresistible brands. Throughout her career, Darby has worked on marketing and brand strategies for some of Australia’s leading travel, property, and retail brands.
A hurdle she continued to face in the marketing world was trying to support clients who were unclear on their brand strategy. They were unsure of their target audience, confused about how to communicate and didn’t know what made their brand unique.
Now in her consulting business, Darby helps her clients get crystal clear on their brand strategy so that they can create effective marketing campaigns, connect with their audience on a deeper level, and have fun doing it!
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- How Darby transitioned into brand strategy consulting and where this has led her
- Why understanding your brand first makes everything else in business that much easier
- Simple - and fun - activities to develop or enhance a personality for your brand
- How to create content pillars for your business so content creation becomes more purposeful and intentional
- The (perhaps surprising) origins of branding and how it’s evolved, and
- The two words Darby has on her mind right now.
Darby talks about brand in such an approachable way. Wherever you’re at in your business, from fledgling startup to very established, you’ll find something to take away from this episode.
How you can connect with Darby:
- Website: www.darbylyndon.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/darbylyndon/
Resources mentioned:
- The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth
You may also love
- Episode 37: Crafting a magnetic brand with Suz Chadwick
- Episode 17: The power of standing clearly in your brand with Jade Rennie
- Brand Chats with Darby Episode 9: Creating connection through words with Emma McMillan
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Freebie: Essential Content Repurposing Guide
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Ooh, it’s a juicy topic today. When it comes to the cost of copy for your business, there are many factors at play.
In today’s episode you’ll find out how most copywriters charge, why - and for what. Whether you choose to outsource, or use that money to invest in your own skills, you’ll have a better understanding of the bigger picture. I’ll share the different kinds of pricing you might see and even what you can get with the budget you have.
You might also enjoy:Episode 38 - Copy assets checklist for your small biz
Episode 32 - Your mid-year content marketing reflection
Episode 31 - Unpacking your money stories and taking inspired action with Sandy Hanrahan
Important links:
- The Co-writing Content Crew - Join us now!
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmamcmillancopy/
- Book a discovery call - https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
- While you're here, register now for my Free Masterclass - Get copy confident *
Since transitioning from copywriting into the copy coaching space back in 2020, I’ve noticed something that keeps cropping up. Mindset. Often the reason my clients don’t write - or share - content is because they talk themselves out of it.
A lack of confidence can really stop you in your tracks from showing up, sharing and connecting with your audience. In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into five internal thoughts that may be showing up for you - and what you can do to shift things and get out of your own way.
You might also enjoy:Episode 20 - Easy ways to generate SEO-friendly content ideas
Episode 8 - How to create content without burning out
Episode 6 - Eeek! Is that a typo? How to proofread your own work
Important links:
* Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmamcmillancopy/
* The Co-writing Content Crew - Join the waitlist for October
* Free Masterclass - Get copy confident - Register now
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Christina Chiodo.
Chrissy is a website strategist and copywriter with a particular interest in digital accessibility. She believes that proper 'human first' website design and copywriting means thinking through the access needs of your users as a core part of each project, not as an afterthought. Accessible design and clearly conveyed information benefits everyone, not just people with disabilities, and accessibility doesn't have to compete with aesthetics.
Chrissy is on a bit of a mission to educate people on how they can make their online spaces user-friendly, accessible AND beautiful. In 2021, she completed a Professional Certificate in Web Accessibility Compliance as a means to back up her passion for accessibility with information and actionable steps.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Chrissy’s deep curiosity for accessibility, design thinking, usability and belonging
- How Chrissy became interested in digital access and where this journey has led her
- Why it’s important for us to make a collective shift towards a more inclusive world
- How we can put accessibility in into action - and it’s more than colour contrast
- How an accessibility mindset can inform how we develop courses and write content such as websites, social media posts and sales pages
Chrissy mentions so many wonderful resources, so make sure you check out the full list below.
How you can connect with Chrissy
- Website: https://thatsoundsnice.com.au/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsounds.nice/
Resources mentioned
Books:
- A Book Apart (Publishers)
- My fave: Design for Cognitive Bias — David Dylan Thomas
- Offline Matters: The Less-Digital Guide to Creative Work — Jess Henderson
- Say Hello — Carly Findlay
- Being Heumann: The Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist — Judith Heumann
- Growing Up Disabled in Australia Anthology — Edited by Carly Findlay
- Mismatch: How Inclusion Shapes Design — Kat Holmes
- What Can a Body Do?: How We Meet the Built World — Sara Hendren
Courses:
- Professional Certificate of Web Accessibility Compliance — Centre for Inclusive Design/UniSA
- Accessible Communication and Marketing — Vision Australia
- Accessible Biz 101 Workshop— Access Reimagined
Work with Emma
- Join the waitlist: Co-writing Content Crew
- Register for the free Masterclass: Get copy confident
Over the years, I’ve discovered, trialled, fallen in love with and ditched many tools, apps or pieces of technology. But I think I can safely say I’ve landed on my 15 favourites.
In this episode, you’ll hear about all the tools, apps or programs I use that make copywriting easier to either write, edit, organise, share or repurpose.
You might also enjoy:
Episode 20 - Easy ways to generate SEO-friendly content ideas
Episode 8 - How to create content without burning out
Episode 6 - Eeek! Is that a typo? How to proofread your own work
Important links:
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmamcmillancopy/
- The Co-writing Content Crew - Join the waitlist for October
- Free Masterclass - Get copy confident - Register now
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Ilana Kosakiewicz. Ilana first joined me on the podcast for Episode 28 - Get to know your host - where she interviewed me. Today, I’m turning the tables and interviewing my friend, peer and client, Ilana.
Ilana is a leading Australian kinesiologist, women’s wellbeing mentor, and yoga and meditation teacher. She is an entrepreneur with a past life as a CPA accountant in the corporate world.
Ilana’s own health journey with chronic fatigue, irregular cycles and auto-immune disease taught her that slowing down, finding moments of stillness, and listening to the body’s intuition are not just important – they are essential.
Ilana is passionate about teaching women how to optimise their energy, step into their power and cyclical nature. She helps women live in alignment and flow by learning to structure their weeks around their energy levels and listening to their bodies.
She also works with children to assist in shifting their essence, energy and mindset so they can live authentic, content and happy lives.
Originally from Gippsland Australia, Ilana now lives in bayside Melbourne. She spends her days with clients, facilitating workplace workshops, teaching yoga and meditation, running retreats, writing, cooking in her kitchen and spending as much time at the beach as she can.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Preparing for and navigating any kind of birth, change and transition in business or life
- How Ilana practises curiosity, surrendering control and going with the flow
- The vibrations and energy of words - and why choosing them intentionally is important
- How copy coaching helped Ilana understand the process behind writing great copy
- How Ilana decides what to create in her business - and how she markets these offers
- The importance of sharing personal stories to build connection
- The rituals Ilana has introduced into her business - and how they support her, and
- Giving yourself the permission to follow your energy and build in space to just ‘be’.
It is possible to enjoy writing for your business, just like Ilana. She has made it a priority to work on her copy skills and confidence. You can do this, too by joining the waitlist for the October round of the Co-writing Content Crew - just follow the link in the show notes.
We snuck this conversation in just before Ilana went on maternity leave and I know you’re going to love it. Why not take a screenshot and share it on Instagram tagging me @emmamcmillancopy. That would make my day. Enjoy!
How you can connect with Ilana:
- Website: ilanak.com.au
- Instagram: instagram.com/ilanak.kinesiology/
- Facebook: facebook.com/ilanak.kinesiology
- The Energy Shift podcast: ilanak.com.au/podcast
Resources mentioned:
- Beyond the Birth Plan by Maria Dempsey
- The Company of One by Paul Jarvis
You may also love:
- Episode 28: Get to know your host, Emma McMillan
- Episode 19: Unlearning and untangling to reconnect with ourselves with Amanda Freeman
- Episode 14: The uncomfortable and expansive nature of transition with Cath Connell
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Join the Co-writing Content Crew waitlist:
Something that took me by surprise when I started and then grew my small business was just how much copy I needed to write - all the time. And no, I’m not talking about client work. I’m talking about all the copy assets I needed to develop just to grow and market my business.
No matter what kind of service or product based biz you’re in, I bet you’ve noticed that too. A bio or profile here, social posts there, your website - the list goes on. And good copy is essential. It connects and engages your prospects and your community and gets them to take action.
To help you plan ahead, I’ve rounded up - in consultation with my peers - a checklist of all the copy assets you’ll need in your small business whether you’re fresh to business or further along in your journey.
You might also enjoy:Ep #24 10 website home page essentials
Ep #26 About page essentials
Ep #30 5 common copy mistakes and how to fix them
Ep #36 How to write or revamp your welcome email sequence
Important links:
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmamcmillancopy/
- The Co-writing Content Crew - Join the waitlist for October
- Content Repurposing Checklist
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Suz Chadwick.
Suz is a bold business and mindset coach and speaker supporting women to go from business confusion to clarity, courage and CEO-ing at boss level.
Suz has over 15 years as a brand consultant working with global brands and solopreneurs, leadership teams and running businesses. She knows what works when it comes to creating a business and brand that stands out. Suz is also the author of Play Big, Brand Bold, host of the popular Brand Builder's Lab podcast and the creator of Brand Builder's Academy & the Amplify Accelerator.
She now works with savvy women in businesses to create courageously bold brands, get out of their own way and build profitable businesses without the burnout.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
- Why Suz decided to start her own business and how it grew from humble early beginnings to what it is today
- The potential of brand to build an emotional connection with your audience
- Why it’s never too early to care about the client experience - and how to just start
- How you can have an incredibly successful brand as an introvert or extrovert
- Why the more you do scary things - and surround yourself with people doing the same - the more courageous you become
- The power of crafting your ultimate client testimonial, and
- What ‘unicorn space’ is and why it’s important to make time for new experiences.
It is possible to change the story you tell yourself around writing - Suz is proof of this. If that’s something you’d love to do, too - a little heads up that you can now join the waitlist for the October round of the Co-writing Content Crew - just follow the link in the show notes.
Now, I know you’re going to love this conversation just as much as I did - take a screenshot and share it on Instagram tagging me @emmamcmillancopy. That would make my day. Enjoy!
How you can connect with Suz:
- Website: https://suzchadwick.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzchadwick/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suzchadwick
- The Brand Builders Lab podcast: https://suzchadwick.com/podcast/
You may also love:
- Episode 17: The power of standing clearly in your brand with Jade Rennie
- Episode 5: Tackling imposter syndrome with Emily Brewin
- Episode 8: How to create content without burning out (solo coaching ep)
Resources mentioned:
- Find Your Unicorn Space - Eve Rodsky
- The Year of Yes - Shonda Rhimes
- Big Magic - Elizabeth Gilbert
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Join the Co-writing Content Crew waitlist: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/co-writing-content-crew/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
Last week in my group program, the Co-writing Content Crew, I was asked a great question: How should you structure and time a welcome email sequence for a new subscriber?
This was also the nudge I needed to update my own welcome sequence. Whether you’re like me and you need to update something existing, or you’re writing a sequence from scratch, this episode is for you.
You’ll find out exactly how to create or revamp a welcome email sequence for your service-based business - and why it’s something to finally tick off your to-do list.
PS. you can now Join the waitlist for October for The Co-writing Content Crew.
You might also enjoy:Ep #26 About page essentials
Ep #16 Stress-free marketing tactics to grow your business
Ep #2 Before you start writing
Important links:
- Get free resources: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
- The Co-writing Content Crew - Join the waitlist for October
How you can connect with Emma:
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Nami Clarke.
Nami refined her magic toolkit of copywriting, sales, and content strategy running a photography studio for 10 years in one of Melbourne’s fancy postcodes.
Today, through her workshops, signature course and 1:1 support - she helps digital course creators worldwide create more profitable launches with less stress. Nami's written work has been published by Mamamia, Elephant Journal, Huffington Post, and more. She now lives in Bendigo in regional Victoria.
In this episode, we talk about:
- All our favourite classic 80s and 90s reads
- Nami’s transition from photography studio owner to copywriter - and the transferable skills that served her in her career evolution
- How to reframe sales as support and service (and how you can grow to love it!)
- Sales page essentials that take your prospect on a journey and filter out those who are the wrong fit
- The various pieces of copy that fit into your ecosystem when you’re selling online
- How to ask for and use meaningful testimonials, and
- Nami’s success metrics for achieving true balance through the seasons of life.
Nami and I met for the first time in this conversation but chat like we’ve known each other for years. I know you’ll enjoy the warm and easy energy of this conversation, along with plenty of excellent advice about all things online selling. Enjoy my interview with Nami Clarke and of course, a 5-star review on Apple podcasts is the best way to show your appreciation.
How you can connect with Nami:
- Website: https://www.namiclarke.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/namiclarke
You may also love:
- Episode 25: Copy is conversation with launch copywriter and copy coach, Kirsty Fanton
- Episode 9: Connection – not perfection – with copywriter and small business mentor Kate O’Mealley
Resource mentioned:
- ‘Atlas of the Heart’ by Brene Brown
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
6 years ago today I registered my ABN and started my business with a dream. To create a new career for myself, away from classroom teaching. I wanted to explore my creativity. To work flexibly. To find that elusive work-life balance.
It was one thing to break away from a career of more than a decade. It was another to make a go of it in the small business world - about which I knew pretty much zip.
It didn’t all go to plan (surprise, surprise!). But yet I persisted. I’ve continued to edge closer to a business that truly represents me.
I’ve taken some time to reflect on what’s changed or evolved, especially in the past 12 months. In today’s episode, I’m sharing my top six lessons - in the hope that some of these might be helpful or valuable for you on your own journey.
You might also enjoy:
Ep #1 How language builds connection in business and nourishes creativity with Ami Summers
Ep #13 Cultivating curiosity with Jo Simpson
Ep #18 Why good copy takes time
Resource mentioned:
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
Important links:
- Website: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmamcmillancopy/ and https://www.instagram.com/notjustaboutcopy/
- The Co-writing Content Crew - Join the waitlist for October
- Content Repurposing Checklist & Content Repurposing Made Easy - Mini Course
How you can connect with Emma:
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Fernanda Alberici.
Fernanda is a marketing strategist, Facebook Ads expert, speaker and the CEO of Fab Marketing, a digital marketing agency dedicated to supporting women in business.
Fernanda works with service-based and e-commerce businesses who want to stand out online, attract a consistent influx of leads and customers, and grow a profitable business without burnout.
In this episode, we talk about:
- Fernanda’s transition from general marketing consultant to specialising in Facebook ads and why she loves the immediacy of this platform
- How Facebook ads has evolved over time, including how iOS and other factors have impacted the platform
- The potential of Facebook ads to attract and grow your audience (in a time of shifting, frustrating algorithms on social media)
- Why all businesses eventually need to bring in a new audience with lead generation
- Some of the common myths around Facebook ads, as well as what to consider before you dip your toe in
- Why great copy is fundamental for a successful Facebook ads campaign
- Fernanda’s tips for writing useful evergreen blog content and where she gets her ideas, and
- How she manages to create work/life separation these days and why she had to draw the line.
I’ve known Fernanda for several years and I invited her on to the podcast to help demystify Facebook ads for small business owners using plain, easy-to-understand language. Once you’ve had a listen, DM me on Instagram and tell me what resonated with you and please leave a review on Apple podcasts. Here’s a recent one I received from LinkedIn visibility coach Kate Merryweather: ‘Emma has a great perspective and I love learning about her approach to business, copywriting and authentic connection. Thanks for a great show.’ Thanks for taking the time to leave your review, Kate - it helps to spread the word.
Now, without further ado, here’s my conversation with Fernanda Alberici.
How you can connect with Fernanda:
- Website: http://fabmarketing.com.au
- Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/fab_marketing/
- Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fabmarketingagency/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernandaalberici/
You may also love:
- Episode 29: Stop stressing and guessing with social media trainer, Erika McInerney
- Episode 16: Stress-free marketing tactics to grow your audience with Hayley Robertson
Resource mentioned: How are we going to explain this? Our Future on a Hot Earth’ by Jelmer Mommers
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
Looking for more support?
Join: The Co-writing Content Crew Or check out: 1:1 copy coaching
Today’s episode guides you through a mid-year content marketing reflection. I’ll talk you through the five questions you need to ask yourself and share my personal reflection on all things content for the first half of 2022.
A purposeful reflection is a chance to take a realistic look at what’s going on when it comes to copy and content in your business. But it’s also a chance to celebrate what’s working well. So, grab a pen and paper and let’s do this!
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
I’m preparing to open the doors for the inaugural round of the Co-writing Content Crew kicking off on July 22. If there are still spots available, you can find all the details on my website here - or get in touch via Instagram DM.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Sandy Hanrahan.
Sandy is a recovering corporate CFO and a passionate business coach. Having started her career as a corporate accountant, where she weaved her own brand of magic into the business world, Sandy grew tired of swimming upstream in the corporate world. She eventually dropped out and started her own consulting business working with small businesses and start-ups.
With a passion for helping business owners gain a better understanding of their finances, Sandy started Abundant Business Training with business partner Ash. ABT helps educate and empower business owners to gain control of their finances and build solid foundations to grow their businesses sustainably.
But Sandy doesn’t just talk business and finance, she also loves talking about intuition, energy and the power that words have to uplift and motivate us.
In this episode, we talk about:
- How negative internal dialogue or long-standing beliefs about maths or money can hold us back
- The value of having an external listener reflect our ‘stories’ back to us
- How getting visibility on your numbers actually makes you more successful
- Combining practical financial knowledge with our own intuition, energetics and soul
- Why it’s up to you to take inspired action (rather than waiting for the universe to provide!)
- How we can move from a lack of confidence to empowerment when it comes to finances
- Why heart and soul is so important to all businesses and how language can help capture the feeling of an organisation, and
- How our children are being educated - or not - about money - and why we should care deeply about financial literacy.
Using a unique combination of real world practical knowledge and a cosmic dose of magic, Sandy will inspire you to see your business in a new light and start loving your finances! I know you’ll enjoy my conversation with Sandy Hanrahan.
How you can connect with Sandy:
- Website: www.abundantbusinesstraining.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantbusinesstraining/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantbusinesstraining
You may also love: Episode 8: How to create content without burning out
Work with Emma
- Join the Co-writing Content Crew: emmamcmillancopy.com/co-writing-content-crew/
- Copy coaching: emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling tradition
** The Co-writing Content Crew: DOORS OPEN THIS WEEK - GET ON THE WAITLIST ****
In today’s episode, you’ll hear about 5 very common mistakes I see when it comes to small business copy. I promise this won’t make you feel crappy about your copy! On the contrary, it’s a way for you to gain insights about what you may be doing inadvertently that’s not serving your audience - and to learn actionable strategies that will help you do something about it.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
The Co-writing Content Crew - DOORS OPEN THIS WEEK - GET ON THE WAITLIST
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
* Check out Emma's website relaunch and new services:* Join the waitlist for the Co-writing Content Crew or check out the Copy coaching services**
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Erika McInerney.
Erika is a marketing strategist and social media trainer at Mac&Ernie - founded to increase digital skills and confidence in individuals and organisations. She is highly recommended for her support and genuine dedication to helping small businesses succeed. Erika has worked extensively across industry sectors and, through Mac&Ernie, has helped thousands of small and micro businesses achieve their goals and stop stressing and guessing when it comes to digital marketing.
Erika has a BA in Media & Communication and a Masters of Marketing and is a Certified Practising Marketer with the Australian Marketing Institute. She has been working in advertising and digital marketing for over 25 years and shares that practical experience and knowledge freely. Erika is well known for her generosity and authenticity and provides training that is smart, relevant and jargon free.
In this episode, we talk about:
Erika’s advertising background and how this helped her understand consumer behaviour
- How she outgrew agency life and why she moved back ‘home’
- The farmers market she started and what it taught her about the power of social media in regional areas to strengthen community
- The evolution of social channels and why it feels so complicated to stay up to date
- Erika’s love/hate relationship with social media, and the challenges with being consistent
- Why your purpose, goal and strategy are the cornerstones when it comes to using social media for your business, and
- How to develop metrics that matter to YOU and post in a way that feels truly authentic.
Since we recorded this interview a few weeks ago, I have made my first few Instagram reels. I’m still not sure how I feel about them, but I’m having a bit of fun experimenting and not taking the process too seriously! Without further ado, here’s my conversation with social media trainer, Erika McInerney. Enjoy!
How you can connect with Erika
- Website: www.macandernie.com.au
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/mac_ernie
You may also love
- Episode 8: How to create content without burning out
Work with Emma
- Join the waitlist for the Co-writing Content Crew: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/co-writing-content-crew/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
* Check out Emma's website relaunch and new services:* Join the waitlist for the Co-writing Content Crew or check out the Copy coaching services**
For this episode I flipped the script and invited guest host Ilana Kosakiewicz to interview me!
Get to know more about my journey, my big career change, my why and what goes on behind the scenes at Emma McMillan Copy.
Enjoy!
Keen to learn more:
- The Co-writing Content Crew - WAITLIST NOW OPEN
- For more about how I work, make sure you check out Episode 12: What even is a copywriting coach?
Meet guest host Ilana Kosakiewicz: https://ilanak.com.au/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
* Check out Emma's website relaunch and new services:* Join the waitlist for the Co-writing Content Crew or check out the Copy coaching services**
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Kate Richardson.
Kate is a corporate runaway and executive coach who now runs a career development and training practice that helps people build the confidence and skills to succeed in a 21st century career. Kate partners with organisations to deliver programs that elevate the careers of their people. She's especially passionate about working with professionals from around the globe to help them redesign their career and find what's next.
Kate’s own career transition was the catalyst for her current career. As a career changer myself, I can really relate to Kate’s story and mission. But if you’ve ever experienced change or transition in any area of your life, you’ll find lots of value in this episode.
We talk about:
- The difference between skills and strengths - and why we need to understand this
- The complexity of transition, which is wrapped up in identity and our sense of self
- The power of open questions and a simple flip you may never have considered
- Why self-doubt and fear are part of any change - and how you can respond to that
- Reframing the ‘elevator pitch’ with a whole new lens (you’re going to love it!)
- Checking in with our thoughts, beliefs and assumptions and looking for data, and
- How ex-corporate Kate writes authentically from the heart as a small business owner and her process for finding her voice.
Kate is full of knowledge and practical tips for career changers and small business owners in this chat - I’d love to hear what resonates with you once you’ve had a listen. I know you’ll enjoy this conversation with Kate Richardson.
How you can connect with Kate:
- Website: https://www.katerichardson.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katerichardson.co
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerichardson/
You may also love: Episode 8: How to create content without burning out
Resource mentioned: The Long Game by Dorie Clark
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Nothing like an About page to strike fear into the hearts of small business owners everywhere. So, what are we afraid of? What if we could start to look at our About page as a place to make a beautiful human connection with our prospects?
The good news is, there’s no one right way to write an About page - as long as it feels like a true reflection of you and demonstrates how you bring value to your target audience. In today’s episode, I share my 5 essentials for your About page, just to get you on your way.
Happy writing!
And if you love this episode, make sure you check out Episode 24: 10 website home page essentials & Episode 10: Writing about ourselves is hard. Here’s how to make it easier.
Important links:
- The Co-writing Content Crew - WAITLIST OPEN
- Website Copy Audit
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
** Check out Emma's website relaunch and new services: Join the waitlist for the Co-writing Content Crew or check out the Copy coaching services
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Kirsty Fanton.
Kirsty is a launch copywriter, fellow copy coach, and ex-psychotherapist. She’s got a knack for understanding how humans work, selling things with words, and building her business around work that feels good.
I first came across Kirsty several years ago and took part in her signature program ‘Brain Camp’, which was a real game-changer for my business and helped me write better human-centred copy. These days I have Kirsty and her sidekick Amy Posner’s voices in my ears each week as they host the straight-talking Business Badassery podcast. I couldn’t wait to invite Kirsty to join me on my podcast for a chat about all things copy, language and connection.
In this episode we talk about:
- How Kirsty prepared for and has evolved her business since the birth of her young son
- Her career path from journalism to psychotherapy and then copywriting - and what instigated each new chapter
- Kirsty’s passion for experimenting, working things out and improving - and what that’s led her to understand and develop
- Her desire to help people genuinely connect with their prospects in a deeper, more resonant way (and the problem with templates)
- Copy as conversation - and why that’s so freeing as a concept
- Why social proof and using the language of your prospects is one of the most effective tools you have in your small business tool belt, and
- How Kirsty’s built a thriving business that still weaves in so many moments of human connection.
Kirsty is such a warm, generous person and there’s so much value for small business owners in this chat - I’d love to hear what resonates with you once you’ve had a listen. So without further ado, here’s my conversation with Kirsty Fanton.
How you can connect with Kirsty
- Website: https://www.kirstyfanton.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirsty.fanton/
Resource mentioned
- Social Proof Sidekick (Kirsty’s social proof gathering resource)
How you can connect with Emma:
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
When you consider that your home page is really your website’s front door, it’s important to make sure it’s optimised for client attraction and conversion. Your home page should clearly represent your business and offering, help your prospects find what they need, and tell them how to buy from you. So, what should you include?
In today’s episode, I guide you through a self-audit of your homepage with my 10 website home page essentials. No matter if you’re writing a website from scratch or optimising an existing one, there’s something here for you.
Happy writing!
Helpful link:
- Website Speed Test: https://tools.pingdom.com/
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Hello and welcome to Episode 23. Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Rebekah Lambert.
Rebekah plies her trade as a virtual marketing officer that helps changemaking, purpose-orientated start-ups, organisations and entrepreneurs with their content, strategy and community building needs. She’s the founder of the Freelance Jungle, a grassroots community that ends the isolation and raises the knowledge bar for thousands of Australian and New Zealand freelancers. She reminds freelancers that stress has a productivity cost through online community and a “pay what you can afford” approach to education.
For her efforts, the Freelance Jungle won the Workplace Wellbeing category at the Wayahead 2019 Mental Health Matters Awards. A believer in freelancing as a way to reinvent your working life, Rebekah produced a free virtual festival for Australians made redundant by Covid in 2021 with funding from Facebook Australia and Good2Give.
When she’s not in the Jungle, she’s exploring the Illawarra with her labradorks and hairy musician partner, creating noise of a different kind.
I personally discovered the Freelance Jungle in my early years of freelancing and found it an absolute goldmine of helpful advice and a great place to connect with fellow freelancers. So it was a real treat to have Rebekah join me on the podcast.
In this episode we talk about:
- Why creative burnout happens and how we can reengage with creativity, curiosity and ourselves again
- Internalised capitalism and the impacts of the protestant work ethic on mental health
- How together we can come together and advocate for fellow freelancers as a united industry
- Why you should put yourselves in situations where you're not the smartest person in the room
- How information digesting and creative binges help Rebekah continue to create meaningful authentic content
- How blog shells and the buying journey can help inform your content plan, and
- How’s she’s aligning her values with her work to be able to feel good about her legacy.
How you can connect with Rebekah
- Websites: http://freelancejungle.com.au/, https://unashamedlycreative.com.au/, https://www.patreon.com/freelancejungle
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/freelancejungle
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Once you’ve done your keyword research, how do you go about using those keywords in your copy? Because SEO-optimised content is great but you never want it to compromise the experience for your reader.
In today’s episode, I explain how to choose your focus keywords for a blog or website page then exactly where to put those keywords for the best chance of search engine visibility.
You’ll get the lowdown on top tools to help you with this process, plus the eight top spots to use your focus keyword in your copy - all in jargon-free language you can understand.
Happy writing!
Important links:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Pingdom: https://tools.pingdom.com/
- Keywords Everywhere: https://keywordseverywhere.com/
- Headline Analyzer: https://headlines.coschedule.com/
- Google Search Console: https://search.google.com/search-console/about
- Webapex tool: https://www.webapex.com.au/meta-tags-idea-meta-title-description-length.php
How you can connect with Emma: * Website:emmamcmillancopy.com * Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy * Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter * LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Hello and welcome to Episode 21. Before I introduce today’s guest, I want to quickly let you know that I have just 3 remaining spots for copy coaching clients through May and June. So if this is something that’s calling you right now, head to my website to book straight in through the copy coaching page or book a discovery call and we can chat about coaching. If you want to get a bit more of a sense of my coaching style, I would encourage you to check out some of my solo podcast episodes. Ok, let’s get cracking.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Anu Sawhney. Anu is a quirky, kind human with an infectious zest for life. With a design degree in her bag, she set out to change how people feel, one design at a time.
After spending far too many years working for big brands (such as Kenneth Cole, Banana Republic, Don Algodon, Gap, The Gazal group & Leona Edmiston), Anu threw it all away to create with kindness. She brings her brightness and sparkle to life and believes, wholeheartedly, that happy people create happy things.
Through founding Bidiliia, her own ethical jewellery company, Anu found a love for writing compelling product copy, a skill she now applies to create checkout-worthy copy for other e-comm stores. Mum to two small humans, Anu lives in Sydney and is originally from India.
I often work with service-based businesses, so it was a real treat to have Anu on the podcast sharing her knowledge and wisdom around writing for ecommerce.
In this episode we talk about:
- How creating Bidiliia brought a bit of joy to each day at a time that felt really hard
- How to write banging product descriptions, including the powerful techniques of word association and review mining - and how learning to describe her creations helped Anu connect more deeply with her customers
- Why Anu resists the idea of a customer avatar
- The opportunity of emails to tell stories and echo a shared experience
- Anu’s highest converting email on the topic of organic cucumbers, and
- Her ongoing struggle with her About page. Sound familiar?
Anu truly is a sparkly and creative human with such an interesting journey. I know you’re going to enjoy my chat with Anu Sawhney.
How you can connect with Anu:
- Website: bidiliia.com
- Instagram: @bidiliia
- Facebook: facebook.com/bidiliia/
- Pinterest: pinterest.com.au/bidiliia/
Work with Emma:
- Copy coaching: emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach
- Discovery call: emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
There’s no point in writing content that never gets found or read, right?
In today’s episode, I share some easy-to-use tools and strategies to generate SEO friendly ideas for your small business content marketing.
You’ll get the lowdown on keywords, searcher intent and how to find fresh keyword ideas to create new pieces of content and grow your audience.
Happy writing!
Important links:
- Free resources: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- KW Finder: https://mangools.com/
- Ubersuggest: https://neilpatel.com/ubersuggest/
- Keywords Everywhere: https://keywordseverywhere.com/
- Google Search Console: https://search.google.com/search-console/about
- Answer the Public: https://answerthepublic.com/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Amanda Freeman.
Amanda helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs, helping professionals and practitioners conquer their fears, clear energy blocks, and develop sky-high confidence in order to make powerful, intuitive life and business decisions.
There is nothing she loves more than combining the ‘practical’ of mindset and inspired action with the ‘woo’ of energy healing. She loves helping her clients overcome procrastination, overwhelm and self-sabotage so that they can run their lives and businesses in a truly aligned, sustainable and profitable way.
Amanda is an Energy Mentor and Coach, Reiki Master Teacher, EFT Master Trainer, and Sacred Circle Facilitator.
When she is not holding space for her clients, you’ll find her at home with her family among the trees in Melbourne. She’s usually walking in the forest, snuggling her pup Frankie, swimming, drinking herbal tea (with chocolate of course) or learning all things healing, spirituality, conscious business and personal growth.
I’ve only recently connected with Amanda but I immediately knew I wanted her as a guest on the podcast.
In this episode we talk about:
- The challenge of coming back to ourselves after a lifetime of putting others first
- How Amanda’s experience of childhood chronic pain led her on a path of self-discovery
- How what’s happening in the world around us contributes to the way we see ourselves
- Redefining productivity to honour our capacity and the seasons of life
- The healing power of words in navigating the messy middle of the human experience
- Creating your own writing ritual and process, and
- The magic that can transpire when you choose to follow breadcrumbs from the universe.
Amanda brings such incredible energy to this conversation and I know you’ll be fascinated by her journey and advice. Here’s my chat with Amanda Freeman.
How you can connect with Amanda
- Website: www.amandafreeman.com.au
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/amandafreeman.insta
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.freeman.fb
Resources mentioned:
- Heal Your Body by Louise Hay
- Transcription software Otter.ai
- The Good Copy copywriting school
- The Awakened Woman by Dr Tererai Trent
- Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In a busy, fast-paced world, some things - good cups of tea and good copy - still take time.
In today’s episode, we explore the idea of percolation and why you get a better outcome when you separate the processes of brainstorming and writing.
You’ll find out how percolation works and get practical ways to apply it to any copywriting or creative writing project.
Happy writing!
Resources:
- Free resources: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/free-copywriting-resources/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Episode 1 with Ami Summers: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/episode-1/
- Episode 13 with Jo Simpson: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/episode-13/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is designer, Jade Rennie.
As founder and designer at The Brain Child, Jade helps small business owners establish and step into a memorable brand identity using thoughtful brand strategy and design.
I was excited to sit down with Jade and chat all things brand and design - from colour theory to intuitive design and how the social media and digital landscape has changed. Jade’s strong marketing background means she is skilled at creating beautiful designs that also convert. Part business mentor, her brand work empowers small business owners to develop confidence in their brand and business.
In this episode we talk about:
- How motherhood became the catalyst for Jade to develop something for herself
- When two businesses and two kids became too much - and what she did about it
- How Jade deals with feedback without taking it personally
- Why beautiful design also needs to convert
- The unexpected benefits for business owners of investing in quality branding and design
- The realities of small business life and why Jade is such an advocate of boundaries, and
- How a solid strategy helps Jade write content for her business even when it feels challenging.
I loved this generous and warm conversation with Jade and I know you will too. Here’s my chat with Jade Rennie from The Brain Child.
How you can connect with Jade
- Website: www.thebrainchild.com.au
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/thebrainchildstudio
Resource mentioned:
- Building a story brand - Donald Miller
How you can connect with me:
- Website: emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Hayley Robertson.
Hayley is an MBA-qualified marketing coach and business mentor for service-based small businesses. She provides 1:1 marketing coaching programs to help her clients break through the barriers that are holding them back, so they can choose who they want to work with, charge what they’re worth and get the freedom and flexibility to spend more time doing what they really enjoy.
Hayley also teaches members via her online marketing membership, the My Client Strategy Academy, how to market and grow their service business in a simple and non-complex way, alongside a supportive community of service based business owners.
I’ve known Hayley for several years now. We first met when she lived in Melbourne and she’s since relocated to Brisbane. Hayley is so passionate about supporting small business owners - and she talks about marketing in a very non-threatening way. I invited her on the show to share some of this wisdom with you - and, let’s be honest, with me, too.
In this episode we talk about:
- Hayley’s sliding doors career moment - and how she feels about it now
- What makes good email marketing - and it’s not necessarily what you think
- Tips for making service-based outcomes more tangible and how to enhance your product descriptions
- The importance of repetition when it comes to your marketing messages
- What to do if you feel overwhelmed or fall off the wagon with your marketing
- Simple ways to track your marketing metrics - because if you want your business to grow, you have to grow your audience, and
- The power of consistency and going ‘all in’ on your chosen marketing strategy.
I really enjoyed this conversation with Hayley and she shared so many marketing gems. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode.
How you can connect with Hayley
- Website: www.myclientstrategy.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hayleyrobertson.myclientstrategy
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myclientstrategy/
- Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/myclientstrategy/
Resources mentioned:
- How to write copy that sells - Ray Edwards
- Storybrand - Donald Miller
- Chillpreneur - Denise Duffield Thomas
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Kate Toon.
Kate is a down to earth human on a mission: to demystify the realities of running a successful online business. Her StayTooned group of companies include the Digital Masterchefs, The Clever Copywriting School, and The Recipe for SEO Success. Through these, Kate’s helped more than 10,000 other businesses demystify digital marketing, grapple the Google Beast, and grow their overall success.
Kate is a renowned speaker, podcaster and author, and was named Businesswoman of the Year and Training & Education Provider of the Year at the national My Business Awards. She also runs Australia’s only dedicated annual copywriting conference, CopyCon. And all this from the Toon Cave in her backyard, accompanied only by her very own CFO (Chief Furry OfficeDog) Pomplemousse and assisted remotely by a team of talented sub-contractors.
I’ve been a member of Kate’s communities over the years and she taught me most of what I know about SEO. It was great to sit down and hear about her evolution as a business owner, her reflections on the past 14 years and what lights her fire in 2022.
In this episode we talk about:
- Being a reformed completion junkie and why it’s time to redefine what success looks like
- The importance of forgiving ourselves for what we don’t do - or even want to do
- Why inspiration rarely works and what to use instead
- How iterative copywriting is like a millefeuille pastry
- Riding the wave of small business life - the highest highs and lowest lows
- Kate’s future dream of being a ‘proper writer’ and
- Why just because you could do something, doesn’t always mean you should.
This was a very honest conversation, where Kate spoke frankly about how and why she made some big changes in her business and life.
Here’s my chat with the inimitable Kate Toon…
How you can connect with Kate
- Website: katetoon.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/katetoon/
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/katetoon/
Solo episodes mentioned:
- Episode 6 Eeeek! Is that a typo? How to proofread your own work
- Episode 10 Writing about ourselves is hard. Here’s how to make it easier.
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is wholehearted coach, Cath Connell.
Cath is a wholehearted success coach and marketing demystifier with over 25 years experience as a marketing professional. She is passionate about helping women build a successful business WITHIN a life, so that together we can reshape our world into one that is more sustainable, loving, kind and connected. In her downtime, Cath loves communing with nature, sharing good food with plenty of laughs, reading, playing her guitar and hanging out with her chickens.
Cath’s evolution from graphic designer to marketer and now coach has always intrigued me, so I wanted to chat about transition, starting over and how she builds meaningful connections with others.
In this episode we talk about:
- How the events of the past two years have inspired shifts in Cath’s family life
- Designing a business that works with the life you want
- The importance of being able to bring your whole self to work - and strategies to make this happen
- Stepping out of your comfort zone as a way to build connection with others
- The power of creating these connections one at a time, and
- How to recharge creatively with some out-of-the-box artist date ideas.
I really enjoyed this wholehearted conversation and I know you will too. Here’s my conversation with the ever-evolving Cath Connell.
How you can connect with Cath:
- Website: https://cathconnell.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/cathconnellws
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathconnell/
Resources mentioned:The Artist’s Way and Julia Cameron’s work: https://juliacameronlive.com/
Solo episodes mentioned:
- Episode 4 How to learn to love a blank page
- Episode 8 How to create content without burning out
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Welcome back to the Not Just About Copy podcast. My guest for this episode - episode 13 - is Jo Simpson.
As a coach and facilitator, Jo works with leaders, individuals and organisations to tap into their creative potential.
Her business, YES CREATIVITY, is founded on the belief that creativity is an essential skill and everyone has creativity within them, but sometimes we need help harnessing our creative powers and building confidence in our creative ability. By learning the skills to tap into creativity, we can become better leaders, and bring innovative ideas to life.
With more than two decades of experience up to an executive level, in working in innovation and marketing for major global and local brands, and as a meditation teacher and educator, Jo brings a unique perspective to creativity, seeing the potential in bringing a creative mindset to every aspect of work and life.
Creativity is not just for creatives - it’s for everyone - and I think we could all use a fresh perspective on creativity. I learnt so much during my chat with Jo, and discovered many new ways to incorporate creative thinking into my days and weeks. Her enthusiasm is truly infectious.
We talk about:
- Creativity as an antidote to uncertainty
- How to think about creativity in a way that feels accessible, real and helpful
- When and how we lose our natural childhood curiosity and sense of wonder - and how we can shake things up
- The opportunity we have to develop a creative mindset and push boundaries even within constrained environments
- How reframing a problem with creative language can stimulate, stretch and excite us, and
- The need to separate divergent and convergent thinking - and how this relates to the writing process.
I guarantee this chat with Jo Simpson will get you thinking - I can’t wait to hear what resonates with you. Enjoy the episode!
How you can connect with Jo:
- Website: yescreativity.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yes_creativity
- Sir Ken Robinson TED talk ‘Do schools kill creativity?’ Jo refers to
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In today’s episode, I cover a topic many people I speak to are curious about. What even is a copywriting coach?
It’s a great question - and one that probably doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. You’ll find out what it means to me and what you can expect if you choose to come on the copy coaching journey with me.
Together, we’ll explore the following FAQ:
- Why work with a copywriting coach?
- Who am I to be coaching you on your copy?
- What does the actual process of copy coaching look like?
- Who is copy coaching for - and not for?
Happy writing!
Resources:
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
- Discovery call: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/discovery-call/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Danielle Price.
With over 12 years of small business experience, Danielle has created an Australia-wide network of female founders at She Will Shine. An expert networker and elevator of women in small business, Danielle facilitates genuine connection and support, and is passionate about sharing and giving a voice to the real stories of Australian women business owners.
When it comes to empowering female founders and fostering human connection, Danielle does things differently. She believes in providing a platform for all women, not just the loudest people in a room. Her highly engaged community is a testament to her commitment: members flourish through personal and professional development, networking, social events and a non-judgemental space to be themselves - in business and in life.
In this episode we talk about:
- Career evolution, including which paths Danielle followed - along with her ‘almost’ careers and her fear of success
- Making decisions out of fear or love, and how to tell the difference
- The power of words, conversation and asking great questions
- How facilitating genuine connection trumps exchanging business cards any day!
- The joy of embracing your own personality in day-to-day business writing
- The similarities inherent in the processes of writing and graphic design, and
- The importance of making time and space to create.
I loved this open and honest conversation with down-to-earth business owner and human, Danielle Price - and I’m sure you will, too.
How you can connect with Danielle
- Website: http://www.shewillshine.com.au
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shewillshine_
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@shewillshine_
Writing about ourselves can feel hard, right? In today’s episode I share some tips to make it easier - and less cringey - for you.
First up, we’ll look at why it’s so tricky, but also why putting ourselves out there is so important and something we should persist with.
You’ll hear tried and tested strategies I use for getting out of my own way and find out how to apply these to your own writing. Believe it or not, there are ways to write about yourself that can feel free-flowing, authentic and even fun.
Happy writing!
Resources:
- Copy coaching: emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is copywriter, editor, professional typo spotter and small business mentor, Kate O’Mealley.
Kate founded Oh My Word in 2004… way back when social media and side hustles weren’t a thing! In the beginning, she juggled her small business with working full-time in big business – but had a sneaky feeling corporate life wasn’t for her.
With 15 years of experience in corporate communications, Kate's written about many things from superannuation to chocolate. She's also been a ghostwriter for CEOs and AFL footballers.
These days, Kate puts her wordy skills and business experience to good use mentoring and working with a range of businesses, not for profits and solopreneurs. Kate is also Deputy Editor and feature writer for Coal Coast Magazine - Wollongong's leading lifestyle magazine.
Despite having her own thriving copywriting business, Kate has never felt like a rival when it comes to business. She truly epitomises the adage of community over competition, generously building up emerging writers, sharing leads and giving expert advice. It’s been such a pleasure to get to know Kate over the past 4 years. Her take on small business life is refreshing, both in terms of the content and her straight-talking delivery.
In this episode we talk about:
- The importance of like-minded communities and networks, both online and in real life, especially if you work for yourself
- Only being what you can see - and how this helped Kate carve out a vision for Oh My Word and lead the charge for others seeking work/life integration
- Not trying to be everything to everyone and the freedom that comes from this
- Why traditional performance reviews suck and what a Kate O’Mealley version looks like
- Paralysis by analysis and why done is better than perfect, and
- Which book she threw across the room when she read it during lockdown.
This is a fantastically raw and real conversation with the very generous Kate O’Mealley…
How you can connect with Kate:
- Website: www.omword.com.au
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ohmywordau
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@ohmywordau/
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In today’s episode I share 7 of my top tips for putting boundaries around content creation.
Are you suffering from content creation fatigue? I feel you! Even as a writer, content creation feels tough sometimes. I struggle with motivation and ideas just like everyone else, even outside of a global pandemic.
To maintain some joy when it comes to writing - and to keep the process more streamlined - I’ve put some boundaries in place around content creation. Here are my top 7 tips for putting boundaries in place and taking the pressure off yourself when it comes to writing for your business. Content creation burnout is so not worth it!
Happy writing!
Resources:
- Free content repurposing mini-course for strategies to make your content work smarter, not harder: emmamcmillancopy.com/content-repurposing-made-easy/
- Content repurposing blog post: emmamcmillancopy.com/how-to-create-and-repurpose-content-with-intention/
- Copy coaching: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-coach/
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is copywriter and PR maven, Erin Huckle.
As the founder of Chuckle Communications, Erin is in the business of raising the profiles of her clients through proactive PR, amazing award entries and compelling written content. She works with innovative, ethical and creative small businesses and leaders, to help them find their voice and tell their stories. Erin’s focus is on helping clients connect with their ideal customers, by turning up where they hang out.
With almost 20 years' of experience in PR, Erin has worked across sectors including tourism, IT, major events, not-for-profits, tech and publishing. She still gets a huge buzz out of helping her clients get featured in the media, and she loves celebrating the awesomeness of her clients through the power of PR. Based in Wollongong, Erin is a mum to three very busy boys, and in her spare time she loves any opportunity for a moment of peace, ideally with her head in a book.
I was excited to sit down with Erin and peel back the curtain on the PR industry, get some tips on profile building and storytelling, hear about her writing practice and why words and language are so integral to her work and personal life.
In this episode we talk about:
- The evolution of language within society (think comparisonitis, doom scrolling and more)
- The power of words - and the art of the reframe
- Why healthy boundaries are so important but why saying ‘no’ still feels hard sometimes
- The ins and outs of the PR world - hint: It’s not all champagne and ‘sweetie, darling!’
- Practical tips for small business owners to DIY your PR, build your profile and tell your story in a way that adds value for an audience
- How to deal with a blank page and why breaking the (grammar) rules is so much fun, and
- Why conversational copywriting is where it’s at.
I learnt a lot from this episode, and I know you will too. Here’s my conversation with Erin Huckle from Chuckle…
How you can connect with Erin
- Website: chucklecommunications.com.au
- Facebook: facebook.com/chucklecommunications
- Instagram: @chucklecommunications/
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/erinhuckle-pr-and-copywriting/
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In today’s episode, I share 3 of my favourite tips to make proofreading your own work easy.
An error might not matter to everyone, but it can sometimes change the meaning of something, or leave out important information. The good news is, you don’t have to be a writer - or an editor - to be able to proofread. With these simple, actionable tips, you can make sure the words you’re sharing with the world sound as polished and professional as you. Awkward typos? Not any more!
Happy writing!
Important links:
- Free content repurposing mini-course for strategies to make your content work smarter, not harder: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/content-repurposing-made-easy/
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is author, instructional designer and copywriter, Emily Brewin.
Emily’s first novel, Hello, Goodbye, was published in 2017 and her second, Small Blessings, in 2019, both with Allen & Unwin. Her short stories have appeared in a number of anthologies, including We’ll Stand In That Place and Other Stories by Margaret River Press and the Bristol Short Story Anthology - Volume 10.
Emily has written for The Age, Meanjin, Kill Your Darlings, Archer, Feminartsy, The Victorian Writer and Mamamia. She is currently working on her third adult novel, MICHI.
I’ve known Emily for over a decade now. Both former teachers, we shared a staffroom for many years - gradually evolving our writing careers and growing our children side by side. I’ve always been fascinated by Emily’s dedication to novel writing and I was keen to pick her brain about her writing process, what she does when she feels stuck and where all those ideas come from!
In this episode we talk about:
* How Emily’s early life helped shape her career as a writer
* The process of writing a novel - and dealing with rejection
* Strategies for when mindset issues like self-doubt or imposter syndrome creep in
* How Emily reconciles her private author self with the public demands of marketing her books, and
* Why she can’t imagine life without her writer’s group.
I know you’re going to enjoy this episode. Here’s my conversation with Emily Brewin…
How you can connect with Emily:
Website: emilybrewin.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/EmilyBrewinAuthor/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/emilybrewinauthor/
Twitter: twitter.com/emilykbrewin
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/emilybrewin/
Books: ‘Hello, Goodbye’ and ‘Small Blessings’
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In today’s episode, I share eight of my favourite tips for facing the blank page head-on. With the right strategies, you can start to see it as a blank canvas full of possibilities, rather than something fear-inducing.
We can put ourselves under so much pressure when it comes to writing - especially first drafts. It’s time we gave ourselves permission to write freely and without expectation. The first step in being courageous is being prepared to put something - anything - down on paper. Find out how you can just ‘get it done’!
Happy writing!
Important links:
- Free content repurposing mini-course for strategies to make your content work smarter, not harder: https://www.emmamcmillancopy.com/content-repurposing-made-easy/
- The 5-minute writing framework:
- Start with a hook or a question to engage your audience. For example, Have you ever wondered…? or Did you know…?
- Share an anecdote, personal story or piece of research. For instance, I first noticed this when…or The research tells us that…
- The crux of your piece goes next - what’s your central idea. Flesh it out here for your audience.
- Finish with offering an invitation - such as How could you try…or When could you?
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy & @notjustaboutcopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Welcome back to the Not Just About Copy podcast. My guest for this episode - episode 3 - is Dusk Liney.
Dusk is a listener and space holder, who lives, works and mothers on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Land. Dusk has two businesses: The Listening Squad (with her business partner Jo) and The Listening Mama. Dusk is a contemplative circle holder, birth doula, spiritual companion and matrescence facilitator.
Weaving this all together, Dusk meets people in the midst of their life and listens to their story. She invites people to encounter their inner wisdom and live from that place into their lives, work or birth. The way Dusk holds space is informed by community development, the contemplative movement, birth and motherhood studies and the therapeutic tool of spiritual companionship. Dusk believes in the power of bearing witness to someones' story because every person is of value and needs to be heard.
I’ve had the honour of working with Dusk as a participant in several of her powerful Listening Circles and also through her matrescence work, which was a deeply transformative experience. Dusk has role-modelled and taught me so much about the art of listening and holding space for others. It’s such a privilege to be able to do that for her today.
This is a beautiful episode that traverses storytelling, language, listening, connection and more. We reflect on the extraordinary power of words - and why it’s important not to rush them.
We talk about:
- The importance of sharing stories through the generations and how Dusk’s stories have helped both shape and heal her, including that of Jeremy, the one-legged seagull
- Owning your own truth - and Dusk shares something that takes me completely by surprise
- The gift of bearing witness, and Dusk’s experience of this in her role as a birth doula
- How to get comfortable with silence and why it’s time for a listening revolution, and
- How Dusk’s weekly newsletter has become like a love letter, helping her find joy in writing for business.
I’m so thrilled to share my chat with Dusk Liney…
How you can connect with Dusk
- Website: thelisteningsquad.com, thelisteningmama.com
- Instagram: @thelisteningmama/, @thelisteningsquad/
- Podcast - The Listening Way: thelisteningsquad.com/podcast
How you can connect with me:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
In today’s episode, I share what you need to think about before you get stuck into any piece of content. I unpack the three key things to consider: purpose, audience and platform and share a practical example of what this looks like.
This is a strategy that will help you write in a more focused and deliberate way, whether that’s for your own business or in your day-to-day work life. Your content is also much more likely to resonate with your desired audience.
Happy writing!
Resources:
- Free content repurposing mini-course for strategies to make your content work smarter, not harder: emmamcmillancopy.com/content-repurposing-made-easy/
- Blog: emmamcmillancopy.com/copywriting-blog/
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Today’s special guest on the Not Just About Copy podcast is Ami Summers.
Ami has spent almost 14 years as a leadership development consultant, engagement specialist and accredited coach. She is the Director and Lead Coach at her practice, Craft Coaching and Development. Ami coaches leaders, creatives and entrepreneurs to make their greatest impact using leadership development tools, certified diagnostics and strengths based coaching.
Also an accomplished painter, Ami believes the world needs all people to practice creative ways of thinking, working, leading and living. She brings her deep appreciation for, and knowledge of, the beautiful intersection between the creative and business worlds.
Her breadth of experience as a coach and consultant spans across communities and industries. Ami has worked with bushfire survivors, First Nations communities, corporate leadership teams, government and education, arts program participants, small business leaders and CEO’s.
Since 2019, Ami has been my business coach - helping me to solidify my values and develop a strategic plan for my business. It’s safe to say Ami was instrumental in the bringing to life of this podcast, supporting me to transform it from the germ of an idea to a living, breathing thing out in the world.
I know you’re going to love this episode. Ami is a business coach with a difference and her creativity shines through in our conversation today.
We talk about:
- How Ami landed on her own business values and how these are reflected in her work
- The Craft rebranding process and the role copywriting played in this
- What creativity is and how it works
- How words help Ami connect with her clients and her tips for writing better content
- Matching mood and energy to tasks, plus she introduces me to a game-changing app for productivity, and
- The Emotion Wheel exercise, which is available on the Craft website.
So much good stuff. Here’s my chat with Ami Summers...
How you can connect with Ami:
- Website: craftcoachinganddevelopment.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/craftcoachinganddevelopment
- Instagram: instagram.com/craftcoachinganddevelopment
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amisummers
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
Welcome to Not Just About Copy. This introductory episode will give you a rundown of what you can expect by tuning in, a bit more about who I am and why I started this podcast.
I’m your host, Emma McMillan and I’m an educator, copywriter and copywriting coach. But this podcast is Not Just About Copy.
At its heart, this is a podcast all about connection. How we use words to connect with others, and the lasting impact words can have on us.
It’s about empowering you to write better.
It’s about learning to love a blank page and its possibilities.
It’s about finding joy in words and language.
You’ll hear conversations that I hope will inspire you to reflect on your relationship with words and on how connection shows up for you. In this podcast I’ll be alternating between two different kinds of episodes. Interview episodes will be a longer-form conversation with a special guest. Every second episode will be a shorter solo episode with me, peeling back the curtain on the copywriting process to teach you a valuable, practical, actionable tip you can implement right away. I’m super excited to share this journey with you.
I’d love for you to hit subscribe wherever you’re listening to this and make sure you’re following on Instagram @emmamcmillancopy for all the latest episode updates. You can also visit my website at emmamcmillancopy.com where you can sign up to my monthly newsletter. I’ll see you in the next episode. Thanks for listening!
How you can connect with Emma:
- Website:emmamcmillancopy.com
- Instagram: @emmamcmillancopy
- Facebook: facebook.com/emmamcmillancopywriter
- LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/emma-mcmillan-copywriter
This podcast is produced by Emma McMillan & Sarah Harney.
I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I record this podcast, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin nations and honour their deep language and storytelling traditions. I pay my respect to Elders past, present and emerging.