Mabinogion, The by ANONYMOUS: Recent Episodes
Sue Monhait
Episode 205 – Debbie is the Owner and Certified Gift Designer at My Daddy’s House of Gifts located in Magnolia, Texas. She has been in the gifting industry since 2014, originally with a business under a different company name.
After the passing of her dad in 2015, the company name was changed to My Daddy’s House of Gifts to honor his memory.
Prior to being in the gifting industry, Debbie had a lengthy career working as an Account Executive and Regional Sales Manager in the heavyweight air cargo logistics industry, including 10 years at UPS.
In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, traveling and spending time with her husband Richard, and giving lots of hugs and kisses to her grand baby, Isaac.
Business Building Insights
Everyday is a new day. A chance for a fresh start and new beginnings.
Location is important for a brick and mortar shop.
Having events in your store attracts customers.
Detailed communication ensures you and your client are on the same page.
Have a set budget for charitable donations.
Educate yourself in your chosen field. Knowledge is power.
Find a mentor who has been in the industry for a while.
Resources Mentioned Big Commerce
Smile.io
Canva
Mail Chimp
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Watch the Power of Purpose and Inspired! Planner Video Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you.
Thanks! Sue The post 205 – Navigating Through the Stages of Your Business with Debbie Adame of My Daddy’s House of Gifts appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 204 – Lynne Somerman of Lynne Somerman Financial Coaching helps entrepreneurs feel less stupid and sad about their money through practical skill building, habit change and mindset work.
She speaks about budgeting as radical self-care and loves coaching clients and seeing them light up, realizing that they’re not doomed, after all.
Lynne lives in South Portland, Maine with her feisty daughter, snaggle-toothed dog, and chickens named after strong women.
Business Building Insights
You don’t need to be a finance expert. You just need systems so the financial part of your life is taken cared of.
Keeping records can be as simple as an excel spreadsheet.
Bookkeeping is simply what money comes in, what money goes out and why.
Money is the life blood of your business. That’s what allows your business to keep going.
You definitely want to keep your business finances separate from your personal finances.
Invest in software that will automatically create reports for you. They save you time and are directly linked to your bank account.
Build a habit. Spend a few minutes each day to check transactions.
Price is part of your brand. It’s communicating how valuable things are. When you don’t include the price of your time in what you make, it’s like telling clients and yourself that your time isn’t valuable.
Resources Mentioned Wave Financial
Quickbooks
Fresh Books
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Be Friends with Your Numbers with Lynne Somerman Financial Coaching appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 203 – Jeanette Andersen is a passionate and multi-talented creator. She’s already the author of 5 books. But she also has skills in photography, a talent with designing soft goods products and is considering motivational speaking.
This is a common challenge for creative women. When it comes down to starting a business, there are so many options. How do you possibly choose? It becomes confusing and leads to lots of activity with little result because there’s just too much going on at one time. Additionally, customers are confused because they can’t clearly define what you do.
In our call, Jeanette narrows in on a product grouping that is cohesive and clear. We work through ideas for name recognition and branding. Now it’s time to test the market and we talk through next steps for this phase. Jeanette walks away with a focused plan that she’s excited about and dare I say, I think The Denim Blues is going to be a big hit!
Business Building Insights
Things change all the time. Be flexible.
If you have doubts just push them aside and do what your heart is set to.
Trying to focus on too much at once leads to confusion and lack of progress.
When you decide on a business name, make sure to get the domain and all social media platforms right away.
Make your booth a draw for people to come and look.
Don’t force what you’re selling. Ask customers if they have questions and then let them look around.
Resources Mentioned J.S. Andersen Books
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post [On Air Coaching] How to Select a Product Focus and Start Your Business with Jeanette Andersen appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 202 – Brit Kolo is the Creator of the Marketing Personality Type Framework and the Host of the Marketing Personalities Podcast.
Her framework is designed to match you with your best marketing strategy based on your Myers-Briggs Personality Type.
She’s here to shake up your approach to marketing and inspire you to grow your business in a “feel good” way.
Get ready to go deep, find your true self, and grow that business of yours WITHOUT feeling fake and salesy.
Business Building Insights
You should not feel fake and salesy to grow your business.
Take the personality assessment at your best time of the day. Go with your first gut reaction to the question and answer them as honestly as you can.
Regardless of what you think you are, it really depends on where you gain energy.
There is no one right or wrong to your Marketing Personality. There’s just a right for you and what you naturally prefer. You are who you are.
If you feel good, your audience is going to pick up on that energy and they’ll be attracted to that.
Your personality type can lead to an informed your marketing strategy.
Your personality type affects everything in your life.
Slow down. Focus on the thing you’re best at.
Believe that your natural personality type and what feels good to you is enough.
Resources Mentioned Myers Briggs Personality Test
16 Personalities Myers Briggs Personality Test
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Choose Marketing Methods that Fit Your Natural Style with Brit Kolo of Marketing Personalities appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 201 – After more than a decade in the New York City public relations world, Amanda Berlin now uses her pitch powers for good. She helps entrepreneurs step into their presence, create a story that inspires others, and spread their message in the media.
Amanda has created a library of template guides and trainings. She works one on one with clients to assist them with strategic story-telling and media relations. Her knowledge and skills are based on 12 years of experience guiding strategy for major brands in the corporate world.
Amanda and her clients have been featured in all types of media from Business Insider to Entrepreneur on Fire and from WNYW Fox 5 to Bustle.com.
She’s the host of The Empowered Publicity Podcast. She loves arming soul-powered business owners with the ideas and the skillset they need to go from hidden industry gem to recognizable trusted expert.
Business Building Insights
Cultivate the ability to listen to your gut instincts and trust yourself.
By creating a story around your product, you’ll provide the media a reason to share your message to their audience.
When you are featured in traditional media, trust and credibility are established.
Traditional media allows you to leverage audiences that other people have cultivated so you can bust out from that word of mouth bubble.
Develop a list where you want to be featured. Look at your local newspapers, radio and television stations and also your own media habits.
The stakes are really very low when you pitch the media. It’s definitely worth the effort.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Get on the list to bee the first to know about Sue’s new Inspired! Planner
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Why Wait? Put Yourself in the Spotlight with Amanda Berlin appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 200 – Carol Cox is the founder of Speaking Your Brand, which helps high-performing, purpose-driven women entrepreneurs and professionals create their signature talks (keynote, TEDx, business presentation) to grow their business and become recognized as influencers in their fields.
Carol is host of the Speaking Your Brand podcast and a sought-after speaker and trainer on public speaking, business storytelling, and women’s leadership.
Carol teaches business and marketing classes at Full Sail University and during election seasons serves as a political analyst on TV news.
Business Building Insights
Find people who motivate you and see your potential.
Speaking in person allows you to be seen as an expert and authority.
The more you do it, the easier it gets.
As a speaker it’s not about you, it’s about the audience.
It’s the message that you bring to the audience that makes the impact.
The benefits of public speaking are brand awareness, personal branding, lead generation & marketing.
Stick to one to three ideas for your presentation.
As the speaker you’re the authority and the guide to help the audience.
Don’t rush the ending of your presentation because that’s what people remember most.
Finish your presentation with a story.
Make speaking a part of your marketing strategy.
Resources Mentioned PDF workbook to help you create more engaging presentations
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community
Get on the Early Notice List for Sue’s new planner, Inspired!
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post You Deserve to Be Heard with Carol Cox of Speaking Your Brand appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 199 – Katie is the founder of Tradeshow Bootcamp, host of the Proof to Product podcast, a business strategist, and mentor to creative entrepreneurs.
She’s helped more than 850 brands get their products on the shelves of retail stores big and small. Her clients’ products can be found in Target, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, The Container Store and independent boutiques around the world.
Katie is a firm believer in professional development, surrounding yourself with community and pushing ‘go’ even when you might not feel 100% ready.
Business Building Insights
Focus on your product first. Make sure everything is in place and you are prepared if you decide to pursue wholesale.
As you learn about wholesale, start with small independent shops.
Initial contact can be through an email that is brief, to the point and includes a link to your catalog.
Being professional at all levels will call attention to your business and help you get repeat orders. This includes order accuracy, timeliness and following up with requests.
Building authentic relationships with customers will result in growth for your business.
Ask people how they like to communicate and then use that channel when you work with them. For some it will be email and for others it may be a phone call or even Facebook direct messages. You never know!
Build your own list of potential wholesale clients. Don’t buy lists. It’s quality over quantity.
At trade shows, connect with as many people as possible. It’s about the conversations.
Resources Mentioned Anything You Want by Derek Sivers
Storybrand by Donald Miller
Box or Boutique with Bob Hurley
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post All the Secrets to Going Wholesale with Katie Hunt of Tradeshow Bootcamp appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 198 – Megan Auman is a jewelry designer, metalsmith and educator with over a decade of experience in selling art through a variety of channels.
She designs for women who want to be effortlessly bold. She says, “You need jewelry that makes a statement but is easy enough to wear every day.
You need pieces that make you feel fantastic every time you put them on. Something that reflects your confidence and strength. A kind of armor that helps you tackle your day, every day.”
Currently, Megan is running her eponymous jewelry line and the online community Artists & Profit Makers for fellow creatives who sell high-end products.
Megan has seen talented makers walk away from creating because they are given one-size-fits-all marketing advice that just doesn’t translate to the world of selling art.
A best-selling CreativeLive instructor, her designs have been featured in Elle Decor, Better Homes & Gardens, Cooking Light and on top-rated blogs like Design*Sponge.
Business Building Insights
The beauty of wholesale accounts is that once you’ve established contacts you can reach out to them over and over again.
Wholesale trade shows are an excellent place to start as you begin to develop relationships.
There’s no one right way to run a business. You have to figure out what works best for you.
Your product does not need to solve a problem in order for it to sell.
Show off your product through experienced based marketing: what it tastes like, what it looks like, how it feels and the experience of using it.
Add a human element to your photography. We are trained to read emotions through other humans; whether it’s the expression or a movement like reaching for something.
Email is a powerful way to connect with customers.
Put a call to action on your sites and social media to collect emails for your list.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post How to Use Email as a Product Biz with Megan Auman of Artists and Profit Makers appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 197 – A natural-born artist, Marilyn thrives on combining her well-honed sculpture and painting skills with her talent and passion for baking and edible creations.
As the Owner and Creative Director of Unique Cakes, she specializes in non-traditional wedding cakes, three dimensional sculpted cakes and blown & pulled sugar amenities.
Her constant experimentation with different products and processes eventually led to her discovery of a unique edible fabric-like compound called Flexique® which has been receiving international acclaim for its unique variety of uses.
As a co-owner of Unique Flexique, LLC, Marilyn has pioneered new techniques in cake decorating, and is the leading authority on all applications of the Flexique® line of products. She continues her exploration and development of unique edible accents, and shares product combinations and innovative uses with the community.
Joe has been instrumental in running the operations of Marilyn’s cake business since he understands the cake community so well. He is also the co-owner of Unique Flexique which produces the Revolutionary Flexique® product line.
Business Building Insights
The great thing about having your own business is you are the one who gets to pick and choose what you want to do.
Ways to get customers: Word of mouth referrals, social media marketing, through your website, joining a networking organization such as the Chamber of Commerce.
Your website represents the level of professionalism of your business. It’s your online face to the public so you want to make sure it’s done right.
You do yourself an injustice by pricing low. Charge what your product is worth.
Demonstrations showing what your product can do catches people’s attention and curiosity. It increases the potential of a sale.
You should seek out trade shows where there is an educational element like classes and stage demonstrations. It adds additional value to the attendees and increases participation and interest in your product too.
Legally protect your product before you put it out into the public.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Creating Edible Fabric! with Marilyn and Joe Bawol of Unique Flexique ® appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 196 – Salome Schillack is a Facebook Ads Strategist who helps coaches, online course creators, and personal brands scale, automate and grow their businesses faster with clever Facebook and Instagram ads strategies.
Through her fast-growing agency, Salome has been able to build a global team of amazing people that work flexibly and independently allowing them to balance doing work they love with caring for people they love.
Her clients say that the best thing about working with her is that she cares as much about their businesses as she does about her own. She says the best thing about working with clients is that she gets to help them implement proven marketing strategies that help them create more streamlined marketing funnels and get them to more profit sooner.
Salome was born and raised in South Africa and lives in beautiful Perth in Western Australia with her husband Emil, two daughters Milla and Elle and their dog, Odie.
Business Building Insights
We all have a unique fingerprint in this world.
Facebook has an incredible way of targeting the right people to see your message.
The clearer you are about your ideal audience, the better you’ll be able to reach them with Facebook ads.
As you start a campaign, run two versions at the same time to see which performs best. If you’re testing a video, run two videos and see which one does best. Or run one video but sent it to two different audiences.
The two Action Steps below are important to implement immediately whether you are planning running Facebook Ads now or in the future.
You can and will figure out Facebook Ads if you stick with it.
Two Actions Steps to Do Immediately
Create your custom audiences.
Add your Facebook Pixel to all pages where you can collect customer data.
Listen to the show to hear exactly how to do both of these.
Resources Mentioned The Art of Paid Traffic – Rick Mulready
Perpetual Traffic Podcast – Molly Pitman, Ralph Burns and Keith Krance
Contact Links Website
YouTube
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post What You Need to Know Now About Facebook Ads with Salome Schillack of Shine And Succeed appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 195 – 5 Affirmations to Change Your Life this Year.
The New Year is upon us, and for many, it’s a marker in time to make a change. It’s a time to start fresh and reset your ways and to jumpstart the dreams you’ve been thinking about and putting off over and over again.
This all sounds amazing doesn’t it? A new future that aligns with what you want. It’s the chance to turn into reality the achievements and lifestyle you’ve had in your mind’s eye for a long time.
The truth really is … you could make this change at any time … in any day or month of your life, but for some reason the rollover of the calendar year makes it all seem more possible. There’s newfound optimism and hope. You think things like, “This is the year! I’m going to do it this time!” Sound familiar?
Unfortunately, you know what happens to New Year’s resolutions. Within a month or two they’re history and you’re back to your old ways.
I see this at my health club every year and if you’re a member of any type of fitness organization, I bet you see the same thing. In January my spin class is completely packed because everyone has decided to get fit and healthy. If I don’t book my bike early, I may not get a spot. But by March, it’s back to the regular spinners and it stays that way the rest of the year.
I’ve been good at keeping up with my spinning. But I’ve been saying I’m going to start doing yoga or pilates for the last two years. Still haven’t gone to my first class. I’m telling myself this year will be different! You see … I’m just like you in this regard.
I’ve discovered, the reason New Year’s resolutions aren’t followed through on, is that it really has nothing to do with the resolutions at all. It has to do with something much harder. It has to do with your mindset. What you tell yourself in your head – where nobody else can see. It’s about what you think you deserve and then the excuses you make up to stay in the comfort zone of your life. Whatever that is for you.
This is where affirmations come in. Affirmations are the language of the brain and are known to tap into your unconscious thinking.
You see, when you think a thought, your brain processes the information as true and sets you up to react accordingly – as a result of that thought.
And there’s more.
Your brain is constantly looking for clues in your environment to confirm your thoughts and guide your actions. It can pick up on any available influence. For instance, let’s say a customer comes back with a return or says your prices are too high. You mentally process this information and the result is you begin to question and probably undervalue your skills. That translates into reducing prices – or worse – pulling back on promoting and other business building activities.
Or someone looks at you funny and you read that to mean it’s something negative about you as a person. You begin to that that you’re a fake or not capable to be doing what you’re doing because of that one look.
These thoughts lead to counterproductive emotions, self-doubt, and then playing it safe. All these subconscious fears and doubts can sideswipe your New Year’s resolutions and plans for self-improvement.
Luckily you can do something about this!
The good news is your brain is eager to set you up for success, all you have to do is instruct it by telling it the right things. This is why positive affirmations are so powerful.
By speaking to yourself in correctly worded statements, your brain will activate everything you need to make your 2019 the very best year yet.
Think of affirmations as the way you speak to yourself. That then becomes the way you show up in the world. And the way you show up in the world affects your outcomes.
My gift to you, as we enter into the new year, are 5 affirmations for you to say these to yourself daily. Put them in your day timer or tape them to your mirror so you can see them when you brush your teeth.
They are also going to be included in my new planner coming out within a few weeks. More on that at the end of the show.
For now, let’s get into the affirmations and see how they can change your life!
There is more detail about each affirmation in the podcast but here’s the list you want to say aloud every day.
Your 5 Affirmations 1 – There is nobody in this world just like me. Therefore, I am SPECIAL, UNIQUE and VALUABLE.
2 – I’m in this world to do something IMPORTANT – that only I can do.
3 – I have the POWER to create my life however I want it to be.
4 – I already have EVERYTHING I need to reach my dream.
5 – I am STRONG, CAPABLE and DETERMINED.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post 5 Affirmations to Change Your Life in 2019 appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 194 – Merry Christmas!
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the store,
employees were anxiously watching the door.
Products sat neatly on the shelves with care,
in hopes that a customer soon would be there.
The shopkeeper was nestled all snug in her chair,
while she envisioned wrapping up gifts with flair.
The products were perfect and the prices were right,
but would they all still be there when she locked up for the night?
In Amanda’s mind there arose such a clatter,
“Nobody’s coming in. What is the matter?
People must not like the things that I make.
I should have known this business was a mistake.”
Glancing out the window seeing new-fallen snow,
she watched shoppers bustling to and fro.
When what to her wondering eyes did appear,
but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.
With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
she knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
Not down the chimney, but right through the door.
He exclaimed, “Ho, ho, ho, let’s fix up this store.”
“Look at the colors, the quality, the style!
We must spread word of your wares across miles!”
“Why didn’t you tell people of the products you make?”
“I was scared that they would think me a fake!”
“Your talent is clear and creations unique
with artistry and style that so many seek.”
“Now Dasher! Now Dancer!
Now, Prancer and Vixen!
On, Comet! On, Cupid!
On, Donner and Blitzen!
To the top of the hillside!
All residents must know!
Of Amanda’s treasures all boxed up and bowed!”
And then, in a twinkling, she heard on the roof,
the prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
Up up and away the reindeer all flew,
with a message of holiday gifts shiny and new.
Within minutes it happened, the door flew open wide.
A snowy rush of air blew customers inside.
Excitement built up as they discovered the wares.
One, five, seven gifts were purchased with care.
Was it seconds or minutes that the gifts were all sold?
Customers smiled while juggling packages of red, green and gold.
“Which designs did you get? Oh, I loved that one too!
I need to come back and get another in blue.”
Amanda’s eyes twinkled! She felt light-hearted and merry!
People loved her creations – even that shade of raspberry.
St. Nick’s cheeks were like roses, his eyes held a twinkle,
“Success was right in front of you, except for one little wrinkle.”
“You can’t stay inside and be timid or meek,
if growing your business is something you seek.
Your artistry is spectacular, it’s much more than fine.
Be proud. Be confident. It gets easier in time.”
As the clock chimed the hour and the day was now through,
Amanda sat in amazement of what she now knew.
Trusting her skill and being herself,
creates a gift of its own, like a personal elf.
Customers will appear as they’re meant to be,
The right ones for her who would help her succeed.
St. Nick’s eyes gave a twinkle and with a little round belly,
he laughed at the acknowledgement, like a bowl full of jelly.
He spoke no more words, but went straight to his work,
and filled all the stockings, then turned with a jerk.
“Your presents this year are reminders for you,
of the dreams you’ve created that you can make true.”
She knew what he meant and on his cheek gave a kiss,
his message was clear and no point was missed.
Inside she felt courage and anticipation,
nothing would stop her now from creation.
He sprang to the roof and jumped into the sleigh.
He’d given Amanda a priceless gift this day.
And she heard him exclaim, as he drove out of sight,
“Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”
Business Building Insights Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Where are you in your business building journey? You may be further along than you think. Take this quiz to find out. At the end, you’ll have access to a free download to help you along. P.S. This is not a quiz where your result gets published to social media. It’s for your eyes only
Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas When All Through the Store … appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 193 – Dr. Michelle Gowan is a retired educator who is using all her time not teaching school to teach people to bake and decorate cookies.
In her first month of retirement, she founded The Cookie School which is a mobile, home party/class where a group of girlfriends gather in a kitchen for six hours and learn to bake and decorate cookies.
After they “graduate,” they have homework to complete (3 recipes of cookies) and then they qualify for an advanced class (graduate school).
Cookie Nip flavoring was born out of a desire to create a rich signature flavor profile for use in The Cookie School recipes but it has been embraced by bakers of cookies, cakes and treats as well as a delicious flavor additive to coffee and a replacement for vanilla in any sweet or savory recipe.
Michelle now has trained 70 Cookie School instructors who help with the demand of teaching classes. Dr. Gowan continues to work at a charter school in teacher support as well as an adjunct professor of Education at Mercer University.
Business Building Insights
Everything that I give as a gift has a part of me in it. Recognize the value of putting part of yourself into the creation of your products.
Listen to the feedback that you get and modify accordingly.
When you’re making something that doesn’t already exist, you don’t have anything to compare yourself to. The road is clear for your creativity.
You can’t do it all. Seek help from advisors and listen to them.
When at trade shows, the connections made with other vendors are worth just as much, sometimes more, than the sales made.
Give yourself permission to stand back and let opportunities find you.
With anything worth doing, there is risk.
Contact Links Website – Cookie Nip
Website – The Cookie School
Facebook – Cookie Nip, LLC
Facebook – The Cookie School
Instagram – Cookie Nip, LLC
Instagram – The Cookie School
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Not Everyone Deserves Your Homemade Efforts! with Michelle Gowan of Cookie Nip appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 192 – Minna is one busy woman owning two separate businesses, Lil’ Labels and The Product Boss Podcast.
Lil’ Labels are writable, waterproof labels for baby items for daycare and is an Amazon bestseller.
Minna also co-owns and co-hosts The Product Boss Podcast and coaches product-based business owners how to grow their businesses and connect with other product entrepreneurs through Masterminds.
She lives in Iowa, is the mom of two little girls, and loves living her passion as mom and CEO.
Business Building Insights
One way to identify a product to create is to look for problems in your life that can be solved.
Be okay with the slow months and use them strategically to build inventory and test new concepts.
Push the busier months based on the results and learning from slow month testing.
Focus on growing annual revenue and margin rather than the unit sold at a consistent rate throughout the year.
On slow months, work on building an email list and waiting list so you’re primed when it’s your strong season.
For product inserts, add only one call to action for it be effective.
Challenges Start ups – mindset, self doubt, burning time and money, knowing what your options are.
Growth – How do you make more money? How do you make more sales?
Expansion – Figuring out the process for scaling.
Resources Mentioned Jen Eby from Eby Farms – Great example of using social media videos and live streaming
Zulily
Groupon
Jane
Postmark
Sassy Steals
Groop Dealz
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Be the BEST Product Boss Minna Khounlo-Sithep appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 191 – Amy is a podcaster, educator and entrepreneur who has been selling online for almost 10 years.
While she started on eBay, most of that time was focused on Amazon. In 2014, she and a friend/colleague started teaching others how to sell on Amazon. This has become her area of expertise.
Now now co-hosts the Amazon Files show that you can catch live every Monday night at 9pm eastern. Replays are available on YouTube or a podcast of the same name.
Amy’s goal to help others start and grow their Amazon businesses so they can build lives they love.
Business Building Insights
In business it’s best to have multiple places to sell your product.
Having a website is essential because that’s where you want to steer people. If you want to broaden your audience, Amazon is a great way to do that.
The search in Amazon is amazing as long as you optimize your listing with keywords that people are actively searching for.
If you’re selling in Amazon be aware of the rules. Understand the platform well. Read the terms of service and the guidelines. Ask questions of you don’t understand.
By niching down you can focus on the segment of the audience actually looking for and buying your product.
Work on where you are today and what you want to accomplish. Take baby steps towards that end goal.
Don’t do something without a reason behind why you’re doing it.
Amazon feels overwhelming. Take it one step at a time and don’t let fear take over business potential.
Resources Mentioned Merchant Words – Connect the dots between buyer keywords and your products.
Pinterest – Amy talks about this in relation to keyword search.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Why Amazon Over Ebay with Amy Feierman of Mommy Income appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 190 – Kate Flynn is the founder and CEO of Sun and Swell Foods, a healthy snack food company based in Santa Barbara, California.
Kate started her company two years ago with her husband, Bryan, after realizing that most packaged snack foods in stores are loaded with added sugars and preservatives.
Her mission is to create on-the-go snack foods that are made with only the highest quality, whole food ingredients, so people don’t have to compromise their health when eating on-the-go.
Business Building Insights
Believe in yourself. You’re the one responsible for your success.
Hold yourself accountable to the goals and promises you make to yourself.
If something doesn’t work, look for another way to achieve the same result.
Positive feedback keeps us going.
Your product is not for everybody. That doesn’t mean it’s a bad product. It just means it’s not for them.
It’s surprising what can happen when you say “yes” to things.
Take a moment, pause, and celebrate your progress.
Resources Mentioned Check out Jen Sincero’s full line of books on Amazon. In particular, Kate is referencing the one on How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Taking Chances as You Start and Grow a Business with Kate Flynn of Sun and Swell Foods appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 189 – Sal Frances is a branding and social media content specialist.
Wait, let me back that up. Sal is my branding and social media content specialist. I’ve told her before that I want to keep her all to myself, but that’s not nice.
Nor does that serve you at all. Plus, you have asked for direction in this area so I’m bringing you the best.
Sal doesn’t call herself a graphic designer though, because branding is so much more!
She escaped the corporate world in 2017 with the intention to sell digital products (ebooks and courses.)
Sal never thought she’d be designing brands and social media graphics for clients. This came about completely unintentionally simply by sharing her work within her coaching group. To her surprise, everyone said, “I want that. Can you do this for me?”
Sal found her place in the social media space organically by learning what she’s best at AND what people need.
Today, Sal has a content “batching” service and does custom brand work for clients, which is what she’s doing for me.
In fact, she’s the genius behind the branding of my signature program, Makers MBA as well as most of what you see online with Gift Biz Unwrapped.
Business Building Insights
Branding is more than a logo. It encompasses the words you use, the colors, the fonts, the imagery and the photography.
It’s not about what people see. It’s what they think, feel and remember about your brand.
Cohesive branding is important throughout your business. Avoid the feeling of disconnect.
Rather than asking, “What do I want my audience to see?” You want to ask,
“How do I want my audience to feel?”
“What do I want my audience to think?”
“What do I want my audience to remember?”
Identify 5 words that describe your brand’s personality.
List all the brand touch points where your brand is visible.
Resources Mentioned Colorzilla – Advanced Eyedropper, Color Picker, Gradient Generator and more.
Canva – Use Canva’s drag-and-drop feature and layouts to design, share and print business cards, logos, presentations and social media posts.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Colors, Fonts and Graphics. How to Create Your Visual Brand with Sal Frances appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 188 – Sonya is a fine artist who has created her own highly recognized individual brand and pop art style of painting.
In addition to fine art paintings, her products include Sonya Paz signature Limited Edition wristwear, watches, ceramics, apparel, clocks, jewelry, and framed prints.
Sonya’s products are found in boutiques, museum shops, and wineries. Additionally, interior designers and decorators use Sonya Paz designs for modern home accents and original art.
Sonya is also a marketing and branding wiz who has made a name for herself in the art world. She enjoys helping others who are developing their own brand and creative business.
With her knowledge of expertise, marketing savvy and sassy tenacity, Sonya pays it forward as the host and creator of the Rockstar Mentor podcast and related services.
Business Building Insights
Work hard to hone your sales skills.
The power of asking a question can take you to destinations you can never imagine.
If I had taken NO for an answer, I would not be who I am today.
When you go to a trade show, make as many connections as possible. Then follow up, follow up, follow up.
Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help.
Everyone is going to fail in some capacity. Don’t use it as a reason to stop. It should teach you something so you can move forward.
When you’re communicating with other people in business, listen to what they’re telling you. Listen to their story.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post “Ask the Question!” says Fine Artist Sonya Paz appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 187 – Frances is in the process of starting her own business, Francesita by Frances, with the dream of making a living income with her art.
Frances works on canvas and also upcyles furniture. Actually, she’ll tackle just about anything that will take paint.
Bright colors and whimsical themes are fundamental to her artwork as she has been influenced by having lived in Central America for several decades.
Frances’ personal goal is to transmit sunshine through each piece she sells. Her journey to this point has been one of action, decisions and believing in herself.
I’m thrilled to catch Frances right at this point in the development of her new business. As you’ll hear, her background and experience are putting her right in line for success.
Business Building Insights
When faced with adversity, you have the opportunity to transform into something new.
Art is a mindful practice. It keeps you in the present and focused on creating.
Research how to make your business visible and begin to thrive.
Focus on what your customer is looking for.
Don’t stop. Don’t give up on your dreams.
People who’ve found success usually are people who’ve also had a lot of failures.
Be determined and resourceful. Also call upon your energy and attitude.
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Finding Courage Through Art with Frances Castro of Francesita by Frances appeared first on Sue Monhait.
Episode 186 – It’s fourth quarter and you know what that means. There is magic in the retail air. Credit cards are being swiped and Apple pay is in full swing. You want a piece of this action don’t you?
I know you said, “yes.”
If you’re really serious, what are you doing differently right now than during the rest of the year? What have you put in place to turn on the holiday cheer and light up your holiday sales?
You see, if you only do the things you always do all year, your sales will be okay but not lighting up the bank account. Let’s kick that black coal to the side of the road and hang some glistening tinsel so you capture your joyful share of the holiday sales cheer.
It’s lining up to be a great year for gifting sales. Make sure your pile of presents are stacked high.
Okay, enough of the holiday metaphors, but it’s okay to be a little glittery. It’s the holiday season!
Business Building Insights
You have to take action and do things differently to magnify your 4th quarter sales
There are three categories where you can affect sales: Visibility, Promotions and Price
People are opening their wallets and set to spend money. It’s your opportunity to show why they should be spending it with you.
You don’t have to sell holiday themed products to make your offerings look festive.
Point out what service or purpose your product offers for the holidays.
Don’t forget about your customer who is buying gifts for others. Do you have something for them too?
Holiday promotion is not all about cutting your prices.
Additional Resources Mentioned Become a Network Ninja
Open House Details – The Only Holiday in August
Open House Details – Ensuring Success at Your Business Event
Pop Up Shops – Pop Up Shops for the Corporate Win
Power Partners – Power Clusters to Spark Sales
Contact Links Website
Gift Biz Resources Join our FREE Gift Biz Breeze Facebook Community Sign up for my FREE MASTERCLASS – How to Turn Your Hobby into a Business Learn to make money doing what you love. You’re a gifter, baker, crafter, or maker … and you’re stuck in a day job. You’d love to turn your one-of-a-kind jewelry or heavenly chocolate into a profitable business, but you have no idea where to start. How the heck do people turn their creative business dreams into reality?
Learn the ONE thing that will take you from ‘hobbyist’ to ‘pro’ in no time
Discover the 5 crucial steps to give your business a solid foundation and set you up for massive growth
Find out how to be 2 steps ahead in your business so that your customer starts chasing you!
It’s time to get out of your rut and dive into your future headfirst! Stop wondering about your next steps — instead, pour yourself something delicious, sit down, and let me show you how to turn your hobby into a money-making business.
If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue The post Bake the Cookies, Spin the Dreidel, Capture Those Holiday Sales! appeared first on Sue Monhait.