Hey friends! Have you ever considered how the products you use on a day-to-day basis are made?    In this episode, I was joined by Christy Asper of Paper Baristas to talk about her journey of finding ethical manufacturing partners.    Paper Baristas is a paper goods company run by Christy and her husband Jon. They started their business to create ethically sourced products by beautiful people for a beautiful cause.  They are on a mission to help fight modern-day slavery in the supply chain industry.    Christy shares some of the biggest takeaways she’s encountered on her journey to ethical sourcing. She gives us insight into her biggest accomplishments and how she defines success in her business. Christy also shares her own experience as a Proof to Products Lab member and what big benefits she’s had from being a part of the program.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE:   What prompted Christy to start her business The biggest challenges she faced in growing her business What kinds of questions she was asking her manufacturing partners Red flags that prevent her from working with a partner Why she’s passionate about putting out ethical products How she incorporates ethical manufacturing into marketing The big problem with modern-day slavery and manufacturing  What she’s most proud of in her business How Christy defines success within her business The biggest benefit of being inside of Labs What she’s working on creating right now For full show notes and resources, visit bit.ly/PTPEp186   l they do and use their business as a platform to give back while doing what they love. Their desire to sustainably source has made a tremendous impact in what they create and how they create. Paper Baristas products are proudly made with fair trade practices, a love for details and value on the lives of the people creating their products.   CONNECT WITH CHRISTY AND JON:   Website: https://www.paperbaristas.com/ Facebook: @paperbaristas Instagram: @paperbaristas Twitter: @PBaristas   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hi Friends, Happy New Year!  This week on the podcast we're rerunning three of my top podcast episodes focused on sales & marketing for wholesale. If wholesale is a revenue stream that you’re working to grow, I invite you to join me for Paper Camp. Head to prooftoproduct.com/papercamp to get all the details and join our waitlist so you're the first to hear when doors open.   --------------- Hey friends! As more and more of you are dipping your toes into the world of virtual tradeshows I’ve been receiving questions on how to build out strategic marketing plans for these events. That’s why today I am exploring the tactics you can implement to help reach more of your wholesale customers at a virtual tradeshow event. You’ll learn how you can determine if a virtual tradeshow is the right fit for you and your budget. I discuss using a tiered outreach system and all of the different avenues I recommend using (plus tips for optimizing each one!)   ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  Questions to ask yourself when considering attending a virtual tradeshow Why I recommend a tiered outreach system The importance of email marketing and getting in touch with your leads How you should be utilizing snail mail before and after the show (and things you can include in mailings) How to leverage your social media and tips for what to post, repurposing and being active Why you should be customizing your online showroom How you can make the most out of your marketing by making sure that your branding is cohesive and aligned with your overall marketing strategy For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp167 Join the Paper Camp E-Course Waitlist! Since 2011, we’ve helped thousands of brands get their products on the shelves of their favorite shops - big and small.  Our Paper Camp alumni can be found in Target, Nordstrom, Container Store, Barnes & Nobles, Urban Outfitters and independent boutiques around the world. In Paper Camp we teach industry standards for product development, pricing, where to source your products and wholesale sales & marketing strategies.  And, this fall we’re adding some special content for how to navigate wholesale during covid.  Specifically, how to reach out to stores without feeling slimy or salesy, how to market for online trade shows and how to leverage online tools for more sales. Paper Camp sells out every time we offer it, so be sure to jump on the waitlist to get first dibs on tickets! Registration closes August 29th and class starts August 31st! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hi Friends, Happy New Year!  This week on the podcast we're rerunning three of my top podcast episodes focused on sales & marketing for wholesale. If wholesale is a revenue stream that you’re working to grow, I invite you to join me for Paper Camp. Head to prooftoproduct.com/papercamp to get all the details and join our waitlist so you're the first to hear when doors open.   --------------- Big thanks to Kelly and Caroline for having me on their show.  If you’re not already familiar with Creative Biz Rebellion, go check it out. Kelly and Caroline do an amazing job of supporting product based businesses through their programs and podcast. They were also guests on Proof to Product — visit the links below to find them over at Creative Biz Rebellion and here on Proof to Product.   Links: Creative Biz Rebellion Proof to Product with Caroline Hull (Ep 45) Proof to Product with Kelly Parker Smith (Ep 56)

Hi Friends, Happy New Year!  This week on the podcast we're rerunning three of my top podcast episodes focused on sales & marketing for wholesale. If wholesale is a revenue stream that you’re working to grow, I invite you to join me for Paper Camp. Head to prooftoproduct.com/papercamp to get all the details and join our waitlist so you're the first to hear when doors open.   --------------- Hey friends! We’re going to be switching things up a little for today’s episode. I’ve decided that once a month we’ll be airing a live coaching session with one of my coaching clients or a Paper Camp alumni on the podcast. It’ll be a short, hot seat format coaching session where the guest will talk about what they’re working on and what they need help with. I’ll be giving them my candid off the cuff advice, recommendations and even some homework because we’re all about taking action! For our first live coaching episode, I was joined by Paper Camp alumni, Shirlee Fisher of Quiet Lines Design. She has a few hesitations and questions about the timing of her launch and the wholesale market. We work through the three things she needs to prepare and make ready before the launch so she can launch her products confidently. In this episode, we chat about lining up your launch with the release cycles of the stationery industry, why having 40+ skews will help you get more customers and why sometimes you have to wait until things are ready.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Shirlee got started in her business, Quiet Lines Design What she’s currently working on in her business and what she needs help with Planning to launch to coordinate with certain events and cycles Why you need to feel confident in what you’re creating  Why the PTP team recommends having 48 skews during Paper Camp How sometimes it’s necessary to wait until things are ready The biggest fears that Shirlee has about product launches Katie’s homework for Shirlee and listeners  Getting strategic with a tiered outreach approach to building relationships For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp144

Hey friends! Have you started your 2021 strategy planning yet? This was a question that I asked my Proof to Product LABS community and 55% of people who responded said yes while 45% answered no.  I know this year has been very different and the thought of planning for next week or even next month can lead to total overwhelm but yearly business planning is essential for your business’ livelihood.  That’s why I walked you through 4 steps to getting started with a simple business audit including 3 questions you have to ask yourself when strategizing for the new year! This is phase one of strategy planning and I shared phase two inside of the LABS community so if you want to hear that be sure to join our community and look out for the December group coaching replay.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: What’s holding some people back from strategy planning for 2021 4 steps to doing a simple business audit The 3 questions to ask yourself when reflecting on the year How to set 3-4 overarching priorities for your business   RESOURCES:Paper Camp Proof to Product LABS SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! You’re in for a fun episode today. I have Juliana and Ryan Kissick on the show to chat about their business, Good Juju Ink. Juliana founded Good Juju Ink in 2014 and the company is now run by herself, husband Ryan and their dear friend Marina Lieban.  The trio attended Paper Camp Conference in 2018 and it has been so much fun to watch their business blossom since. I was thrilled to talk to them in this episode about an amazing campaign they’ve been working on since the start of the pandemic called 18 Million Thanks.  You’ll hear how they’ve incorporated a give-back program into their business model, their experience working with sales reps and the challenges they’ve faced as their business has grown. Juliana and Ryan share their perspectives on how they divide their responsibilities among each other and how you can get involved in their campaign to send handwritten thank-you notes to America’s 18 million healthcare workers.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Their why behind the brand and the products they create Ryan’s thoughts when Juliana said she wanted to start Good Juju Ink The best piece of advice Juliana got in the early stage of her business How Juliana, Ryan and Marina came together and their roles within the business How the 18 Million Thanks campaign came about Their process for getting this campaign started How you can get involved with the 18 Million Thanks campaign How good Juju brings even more good juju What they have coming next in their business   RESOURCES: Fat Bunny Press National Stationery Show Sugar Paper Etsy Paper Source Paper Camp   MEET JULIANA: Based in Oakland, California, Good Juju Ink was founded in 2014 by CEO Juliana (Juju) Kissick. Good Juju Ink’s greeting cards, desktop stationery, home goods, and gifts harken a storybook nostalgia, frequently highlighting intricate flora and fauna while tonally striking the delicate balance of funny but tender, silly but sweet. With regard to manufacturing, only the highest quality of printing processes are utilized, including foil-stamping, letterpress, hand-stitch binding, and die-cutting. Good Juju Ink strives to be eco-friendly across all of their paper products, and a portion of all proceeds goes to Good Juju Ink’s partner charities.   CONNECT WITH JULIANA:   Website: https://www.goodjujuink.com/ Facebook: @goodjujuink Instagram: @goodjujuink   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Today’s episode was actually recorded in March of 2020 and given the topic, we didn’t feel it was appropriate to air it when it was originally scheduled to be released. However, the story is really powerful and important so I wanted to share it with you and hope you gain the inspiration for how you can grow your business any way you want! Thinking about selling your business? Even if you’re still in the early stages of entrepreneurship or if you’ve been at it for quite some time, it’s never a bad idea to at least consider the thought of one day selling your company. That’s why I invited on a past guest, Mary Beth Storjohann of Workable Wealth. Mary Beth was on the podcast for episode 28 and we talked about money misconceptions and the importance of knowing your numbers in business… Well, that has all paid off for her and today we talked about what it was like to sell her business. She shares the nitty-gritty of the decision-making process, how she weighed out the pros and cons, concerns she had and what non-negotiables she made sure were included in the contract (like the ability to work remote and live in Italy for 3 months out of the year!)  We discussed how her definition of success has evolved from the early days of business to now. She shares how this process gave her a glimpse into who she was and what was most important to her and she ultimately shares her candid advice to those who may be thinking about selling their business one day (and why you absolutely need a lawyer to help you with the process).  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Mary Beth defined success in the early days of her business Mary Beth’s experience with being approached with inquiries of buying and merging Her initial reaction to Abacus expressing interest in purchasing her business The concerns that came up that made Mary Beth decline the merger  Being offered the role of the Chief Marketing Officer to revamp their marketing  Her fears and frustrations around letting go of Workable Wealth Weighing each layer of her decision on whether or not to do the merger The non-negotiables that Mary Beth insisted on having in the company merger Planning her dream life and putting it all in her merger contract Keeping her rights to be able to run Workable Wealth Lessons that she’s learned about herself through this process How Mary Beth defines success now  Her advice for something thinking about selling their own business RESOURCES: 028 | Money Misconceptions & Financial Accountability with Mary Beth Storjohann, Workable Wealth Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own PersonHow are brick & mortar shop owners navigating Covid-19? Interview Series   MEET MARY BETH:  Mary Beth Storjohann is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER(TM) and has been a partner and Chief Marketing Officer with Abacus since 2019, following the merger with her firm, Workable Wealth. With over 14 years of experience in the financial services industry, she works as an author, speaker, and financial coach to apply a fun, albeit no-nonsense approach in working with entrepreneurial women and couples in their 30s – 50s across the country, helping them make smart, educated choices with their money.   CONNECT WITH MARY BETH:   Website: https://abacuswealth.comBlog: https://workablewealth.com/blog/ Podcast: https://workablewealth.com/wywpodcast/ Facebook: @workablewealth Instagram: @marybstorj Twitter: @marybstorj   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! I am really excited to be sharing the conversation I had with Rachel Ngom who is a business and lead generation expert. Rachel has a super interesting backstory where she went from being on food stamps with negative $400 in her checking account to running a multiple six-figure online business.  Rachel shared her entrepreneurial journey and what led her to where she is today. She talks about how she increased her web traffic by 34,000 views per month using Pinterest! She also shares her advice on using content to create a strong customer experience and putting yourself into the mind of your audience. She and I discuss the importance of mindset work and professional development and why this is incredibly important for business growth. You’ll also hear her tips on tools to use in your Pinterest strategy, what challenges she faced within her own business and why she recommends people use Pinterest as a part of their marketing strategy.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: What motivated Rachel to start her business Her entrepreneurial journey of starting in network marketing and learning the business  What Rachel does now to help purpose-driven entrepreneurs get more leads and sales Why she’s a big believer in following your gut The process she put in place to get 34,000 views a month to her website form Pinterest Why your Pinterest strategy is a long game How to hone in on the types of things your audience is searching for The conversion rate differences she’s seen on content vs. product pins How content helps you build that know, like and trust factor Why niching down can help you hone in on your audience The challenges Rachel has faced as she’s grown her business Why Rachel is passionate about incorporating self-development work into her life Her advice for what to do with your Pinterest strategy for your business Why she prefers Pinterest to Facebook and Instagram RESOURCES: Tailwind Free Pinterest Class Activate   MEET RACHEL: Rachel Ngom is the host of the She’s Making an Impact Podcast. She is a business and lead-generation expert, helping purpose-driven female entrepreneurs drive more traffic, leads, and sales through Pinterest, blogging, and strategic use of automation. Rachel went from being on food stamps with negative $400 in her checking account to a multiple-6-figure online business. She now helps others do the same with her signature courses and programs. Rachel has lived in Kenya, met her husband in Senegal, got married in Morocco, and spent 2 years in France.    CONNECT WITH RACHEL:   Website: https://www.rachelngom.com/ Instagram: @shesmakinganimpact Facebook: @rachelngombiz Pinterest: @rachelngom   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Last week I got an email asking, “Do people really make money selling paper products and gift items?” I was floored! Based on the latest stats that I saw, the consumer products industry accounts for more than $635 billion with stationery alone raking in $8 billion.  The answer is an astounding yes. There are so many opportunities in this industry to make a good living and build a profitable and sustainable business. Many independent brands are pulling in over six and seven figures annually. Hear the 6 ways that people are making money selling their physical products in this episode. I break down each one and give a few thoughts on each strategy and give a little bit of advice on choosing a path to get started.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: 6 ways people are making money selling physical products The basics about selling retail What it means to sell wholesale Why I don’t typically recommend consignment What a custom work project looks like What it means to do a licensing deal How you can partner with other brands  The path to getting started: choosing the right sales strategy for you   RESOURCES: Paper Camp Proof to Product LABS Thimblepress x Moon & Lola collaboration Autumn Witt Boyd The Contract Shop   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! I’m really excited for you to listen in on today’s episode with Jean Marie Sanchez of Little Feet’s Opus. The story behind Jean’s products is truly remarkable - each of them stems from personal stories of the strong women in her life and spreads joy, empowerment and relatable life moments. Jean made an intentional goal to create products that are both inclusive and diverse. In our conversation, she talked about the ah-ha moment she had where she realized there was space in the market for a line of products.  She shares her experiences in the Emerging Artists section of NSS for two consecutive shows including the pros and cons of exhibiting as an emerging artist versus having your own booth.  We also talked about how Jean defines success through the impact she makes on others.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Jean started her business  Jean’s first steps after attending the National Stationery Show What led her to go the wholesale route rather than brick and mortar How Paper Camp helped her learn the playbook of the industry The initial quantifying goals she set for her business The benefits and drawbacks of participating in the Emerging Artists’ section of NSS What inspires Jean in her initiative of adding diversity and inclusiveness into her products How she defines success in her business What’s coming up next for Little Feet’s Opus   RESOURCES:National Stationery Show Paper Camp   MEET JEAN: I was born in Spring Valley NY, and currently live in Hamden CT with my two boys and husband. I have a bachelor’s degree in Architecture from The City College of New York in NYC and over 20 years’ experience in the design and construction field. During my career in architecture, I have written poetry and created artwork in wide variety of painting media including watercolor, acrylic, and pencils. I am an artist and most recently have paired my artwork with my poetry to create delightful and inspirational greeting cards. My designs bring forth a sense of empowerment and good juju.   CONNECT WITH JEAN:   Website: http://www.littlefeetsopus.com Instagram: @littlefeetsopus Facebook: @Little-Feets-Opus-153008271531822   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! If you’ve considered joining the Proof to Product LABS community then you’ll enjoy today’s episode. It’s a really fun sneak peek of what we’re doing inside the LABS community as I shared a snippet of a live Coffee Chat we had with our members on the things that they’re trying within their business. Our Coffee Chat conversations cover a wide range of topics but in this episode, you’ll hear a small segment from our most recent session focused on Instagram Giveaways. I spoke with two business owners who have experience in hosting giveaways, Alison Tsang of Love Through Letterpress and Becca Stevens of Botanical Bright.     These two generously shared their experiences with recent Instagram giveaways. They touched on their goals, the structure they used for the campaigns, technology tools they used to assist and the outcomes they had. We all shared our opinions on the best time to do a giveaway, group giveaways and strategies to incentivize your customers during the purchasing process. ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Their goals for their Instagram giveaway campaigns What type of giveaway they did and their structure for it Technology tools they used to track their giveaway The outcomes Becca and Alison saw from this campaign Their thoughts on participating in group giveaways Pre-launch, mid-launch or post-launch: when is the best time to host a giveaway Strategies around using incentives or discounts   MEET BECCA: Becca is a plant lover, artist and designer.  She has turned her art into enamel pins as well as jewelry that she sells.  Becca’s intention as an artist is to create pieces that serve as a positive reminder throughout our day and connects us with the beauty around us.   CONNECT WITH BECCA:   Website: https://botanicalbright.com/ Facebook: @botanicalbright Instagram: @botanicalbright   MEET ALISON: Alison Tsang owns Love through Letterpress where she sells stationery, prints, pins and home goods.  Love through letterpress believes that words have power to create human connections and lift each other up. With each product purchase, her companies donates to the fight against human trafficking and empowering individuals transitioning out of poverty with sill development.    CONNECT WITH ALISON:   Website: http://www.lovethroughletterpress.com/ Facebook: @lovethroughletterpress Instagram: @lovethroughletterpress   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Today’s episode is focused on 7 ways you can enhance your customer journey. Oftentimes we’re so focused on capturing the sale and everything leading up to it. In reality, your customers’ journey begins the moment that they learn about you.  This means the customer journey could start weeks or months before they ever step foot into your store or open your website to look through your shop. That’s why it’s critical to nail down the customer journey so you can create a tribe of raving fans for your brand. Take a listen, jot down some notes and begin to think about some of these tips and how you can implement them in your business to strengthen your customer’s experience. ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Why you need to create a positive pathway for your customers The 7 ways to enhance the customer journey Where you can gather analytics from your customers Examples of how you can survey your audience Why you should map out your customer journey Ideas for saying “thank you” to your customers Why you need to train your team to creatively handle customer service Why you need to give your customers the tools to be your biggest ambassadors Consider how you can make improvements  RESOURCES: 169 | Strengthening Our Customer Experience with Jordan Kentris, A Good Day Proof to Product LABS SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Today’s guest is a familiar voice on the podcast. This conversation was with none other than Biff Ulm of MN Nice Enough and retail shop Zaiser’s. I had a conversation with Biff earlier this year, pre-COVID (episode 146 if you want to take a listen) and it seems like it was an eternity ago! I was so happy that Biff agreed to come back on to discuss his personal journey of being a store owner during the time of COVID. In this episode, Biff shares how his store sales have fluctuated this year and how his buying strategies have shifted from larger orders that were further out to smaller, more consistent orders. Biff talked about the new marketing strategies that his team and he have implemented to build relationships with their shop customers.  Be sure to listen closely to the two golden nuggets that Biff shared on not being afraid to fail and making a statement with your products!    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: A rundown of Biff’s shop  Biff’s experience with closing and reopening during the pandemic The safety measures they put in place for the store re-opening How he dealt with managing his team and bringing on additional support How his sales have been this year compared to other years Shifts he’s made within his wholesale buying tactics and strategies What product makers and manufacturers can do to support their wholesale customers Where they’re sourcing products from during this pandemic Biff’s thoughts on seeing manufacturing processes slow down Why he decided to go live daily to reach customers at home What “easy buying” looks like for Biff His views on having a pre-pack RESOURCES: 146 | Leveraging point of sale systems in a brick & mortar with Biff Ulm, MN Nice Enough Zaiser’s Twisted Ware Avochato Hydro Flask    MEET BIFF: Hello! My Name is Biff Ulm. Yes, that is my real name. I am a husband, father, creator, entrepreneur who is inspired by the outdoors and traveling. I own a retail store, Zaiser's, and wholesale company, MN Nice Enough. I am based in the heart of the Lake Country in Northern Minnesota.   CONNECT WITH BIFF:  Website: https://www.mnniceenough.com/ Facebook: @mnniceenough Instagram: @mnniceenough   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!  

Hey friends! I am super excited for you to listen in on today’s conversation with Mei Pak, founder of Creative Hive Co. and Tiny Hands. She’s been running her creative, handmade business since 2006 and coaching makers since 2014. She even taught her husband how to start selling personalized art and now makes over $55,000 per month in sales! Mei is all about creating a consistent income without relying too much on social media. In this episode, you’ll hear the 4 steps for pitching your products to media outlets and the difference of proactive versus reactive marketing. She talks about leveraging Facebook ads to generate sales and why she recommends learning, testing and DIYing over hiring an agency. We also touched on why you HAVE to know your numbers and ensure that your products are priced correctly before jumping into paid advertising.  This episode is jam-packed with SO much tactical, strategic advice and concrete examples - so grab a notebook and let’s dive in!   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: The biggest mistake product based business owners making as they try to grow and scale How Mei leverages press outreach  The 4 steps she takes to get mentioned in the media Why you have to follow-up after a pitch When is the best time to pitch products for inclusion in gift guides How Facebook Ads are an underutilized tool for artists and makers The importance of knowing your numbers  A less intimidating way to get your feet wet with paid advertising Why she’s starting a sister brand for her business What she’s doing in her business to make the experience richer for students Her vision with having a membership program RESOURCES:Creative Live   MEET MEI: I teach makers, artists and designers how to start a handmade business from scratch and grow it into a full time living (and more) with consistent traffic and sales to your website. I've been running my own creative, handmade small business since 2006, started coaching in 2014 and in 2019, taught my husband how to start his own online store selling personalized art for the family, which now makes $55,000/month in sales. My goal is to help you make a consistent income from selling your handmade products online, without using Etsy or relying too much on social media!    CONNECT WITH MEI:   Website: http://www.creativehiveco.com Website: https://tinyhandsonline.com/ Instagram: @creativehiveco Facebook: @creativehiveco YouTube: @creativehiveco Email: [email protected]   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

I know 2020 hasn’t been an easy year for any of us so I wanted to share a quick episode with you today about feeling fragmented.   This was a vulnerable episode for me to record, because I’m sharing my personal experience of feeling depleted and unfocused.   But, having talked with close friends, colleagues, clients and members of my communities -- I know I’m not alone in this. People are tapped out.  We’re exhausted. We’re mentally, emotionally and physically drained.  Take a listen to hear my experience with feeling fragmented this year and 5 important things to keep in mind as we continue to navigate through this “new normal”.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  A personal story about feeling fragmented How I know I am not alone in this feeling 5 things to keep in mind RESOURCES:165 | Gaining Focus and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs with Jessica Eley Friends of Proof to Product Facebook group   MEET KATIE: Katie Hunt is a business strategist, podcaster, mentor and mama to four. She helps product based businesses build profitable, sustainable companies through her conferences, courses and coaching programs.     CONNECT WITH KATIE: Website: prooftoproduct.com  Instagram: @prooftoproduct SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Fulfillment has been a hot topic in our Proof to Product communities lately so I wanted to bring on a special guest to chat about how fulfillment works from the 3PL side of things. I was joined by Allen Befort of Givington’s, a fulfillment company that pays attention to the small details so you can focus on the bigger picture of your business. Allen jokes that he kind of fell into starting this business with a friend.  Seven years later they’ve seen great success and pride themselves on the relationships they’ve built with their customers and the genuine, personalized experience that they can create with their partners. Allen and I covered a lot of ground in this episode and it's rich with information for anyone who may be considering outsourcing their warehousing and fulfillment process. We went over the logistics of working with a 3PL including how to know if you’re ready, technology integrations they have, questions to ask when interviewing fulfillment centers and common pricing models.  We also talk about why it’s critical to build trust and relationships when outsourcing fulfillment.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: What a third party logistics company or fulfillment center does How Allen got into this business The types of companies they usually work with Key indicators that you might want to outsource this part of your business How most of his clients have come to him What you can do to best prepare for outsourcing fulfillment How having barcodes helps to reduce human error How pricing works for fulfillment centers The best platforms for automating the fulfillment process Using 3PLs for marketplace selling Questions you should ask when considering outsourcing Misconceptions that people have when it comes with working for 3PLs How his company works with customers who have bulk, once a month shipments What’s coming next for his business   RESOURCES:Shopify WooCommerce WordPress Squarespace   MEET ALLEN: Married to Meg, with two cute blonde-haired kids and a third on the way. We live in Fayetteville, AR, an amazing town with a great community of friends. We kind of fell backwards into helping start and build Givington's in 2013 when one of our best friends was launching it and asked if we wanted to come along for the ride. 7 years later...we're still here. Personally, I have a deep love for Chipotle and Tottenham Hotspur soccer.   CONNECT WITH ALLEN:   Website: https://givingtons.com Instagram: @givingtons Facebook: @givingtons   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! I am really excited for you to listen in to today’s episode with Betsy Garcia of Bloomwolf Studio.  Betsy was on her way to medical school when she decided she wanted to pursue the small business life and sell her art. Bloomwolf Studio is a Latina owned & operated illustration and design studio based in Orlando that strives to create change through art and messaging.  In this powerful and transparent episode, Betsy and I talk about the mission behind Bloomwolf and how Betsy and her husband Luis actively weave their personal beliefs into their everyday business practices. Betsy shares details about developing and expanding her product line, including mistakes they made in their first product runs. We also talked about business finances.  At the beginning of 2020, Betsy and Luis set out to increase their annual revenue by 25% and they exceeded this in the first 8 months of the year.  Betsy talks about tools they use to track their financial progress and what they’ve done to pivot their business model to stay on track with these financial goals, despite the pandemic. And, we capped off the convo talking about  TikTok.  How she’s using it to promote her brand and products, how she gained 7,500 users in her first month on the platform and what she  does to plan out her marketing for the year.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Why she decided to start a business instead of pursuing medical school How they got started with zero background in business Their process of developing their first products How Betsy decided which products to add into her line Why she’s decided to be more vocal about social issues and the action steps they’re taking Her process for planning out her marketing strategy How she and Luis decided to reach for a 25% increase in annual revenue What they’ve done to pivot this year to stay on track toward financial goals New things they’ve implemented that weren’t in their 2020 plan Where they’re currently at in their revenue goal Tools they use to track their financial progress Her experience with using TikTok for her business   RESOURCES: Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine MEET BETSY:  Bloomwolf Studio is a Latina owned & operated illustration and design studio based in Orlando, Florida. Launched by husband and wife, Luis Sosa and Betsy Garcia, Bloomwolf Studio was started in November of 2015 after Betsy forewent her plans of applying to medical school. With the unwavering support of Luis, and no formal art training, Betsy began illustrating again in the summer of 2015, after not doing so for many years. This period helped renew her passion for art and helped cement her purpose, pushing her to follow her dreams of pursuing art as a career. Since then, thanks to Betsy’s passion and determination and Luis’s continued support, Bloomwolf Studio has evolved into the creative business it is today and has exhibited at national trade shows, participated in hundreds of pop-up markets, and their products are carried in over 400 small shops and boutiques nationwide. Bloomwolf’s small, but mighty team of three is now based in sunny Orlando.   CONNECT WITH BETSY:   Website: https://bloomwolfstudio.com Instagram: @bloomwolfstudio Facebook: @bloomwolfstudio TikTok: @bloomwolfstudio   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Today I want to chat with you about the recent Faire Summer market and share both insights and concerns after leading hundreds of people through what is likely our first of many online trade shows. I’m happy to report that our Paper Camp alumni community and LABS members had some strong sales during the show.  Some received a handful of orders, while others secured more than 40 orders in a two day span.  In addition to the cash influx, I was pleased to hear that many in our community received wholesale orders from new stores they had never worked with and many had reorders from past accounts who were reconnecting. In this episode I’m walking you through pros and cons of these types of shows, why I’m not a fan of discounting your products to get sales and why you should continue your marketing post-show.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Benefits of the Faire Summer Market Concerns about the Faire Summer Market Why I don’t like discounting to get sales My reasoning behind why you shouldn’t be overly reliant on a single tool for your business. Why you should continue your marketing efforts beyond any specific show The non-financial benefits of doing a show RESOURCES:The Glory Days Co.   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! With the world being such a visual place, more and more of our customers are relying on product photography to tell them a story. We only have a few seconds to quickly grab our customers’ attention and get them engaged in what we’re selling. That’s why in this episode I’m talking with Chaitra Radhakrishna. Chaitra is the founder of PinkPot Studio, a Shopify design and photography studio specifically for product-based business owners.  Chaitra shared so much valuable information in this episode about how to nail your product photography. You’ll hear about the 7 different product shots that you can take (and tips on deciding which shots to take). She also shares her 5 step process for taking photos with your smartphone which, spoiler alert: you don’t need to invest in fancy equipment or tools.  Be sure to listen with a notebook handy because she gives us so many insider tips on using the “rule of thirds”, apps she recommends for editing photos and her secret formula for editing photos in lightroom: making the whites low, turning the highlights up, going high on shadows and low on blacks.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Common mistakes business owners make when it comes to product photography The 7 different product shots all business owners need to know about Her 5 step process for taking product photos with your smartphone Why she recommends shooting on cloudy days What the “rule of thirds” is and why you need to keep it in mind when shooting product shots Her app recommendations for editing photos Chaitra’s opinion on using Lightroom presets What tools she suggests you use in Lightroom instead of presets Her advice on not over editing your photos What services she offers in her business, PinkPot Studio RESOURCES:Rifle Paper Co. Instagram Bloomwold Studio TikTok Snapseed Adobe Lightroom Free 5 Day Product Photography Course   MEET CHAITRA: Chaitra is the founder of PinkPot Studio, a Shopify design + photography studio for product-based businesses. With over 4 years of experience in web design & development in the software industry, she started her own design studio in 2015 when she moved from India to the United States. New country, new business - it was nerve-wracking, but luckily her business took off and she never looked back. She thrives on helping women entrepreneurs create a bigger visual impact online and grow their businesses through conversion focused Shopify design and product photography. She has been featured and spoken at Alt summit, Craftcation, Snap conference, ConvertKit and Creative market among others.   CONNECT WITH CHAITRA:  Website: https://www.itspinkpot.comInstagram: @pinkpot.studio Facebook: @pinkpotxo Pinterest: @pinkpotxo   SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners.   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Ever considered what it might be like to run a business remotely? Or even in a completely different country? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Christine Herrin did when she moved to the Philippines for a year while continuing to run her business in the United States. Christine has such a cool story and was actually chosen to participate in the Adobe Creative Residency Program in 2016 which is where she initially began building her product-based business, Everyday Explorers Co.  Christine and I covered a lot in this episode around what that residency program was like and how she got started in her business. She shares what processes and systems she put in place to run her business while living overseas. She talks about how she leveraged her strong relationship with her manufacturer and outsourced fulfillment while she was abroad.  Christine is a member of our PTP LABS community and a Paper Camp alumni.  It’s been so amazing to watch her business grow and evolve.  There’s a lot to learn in this episode -- systems, processes as well as how she created a monthly release cycle for her direct to consumer sales channel Listen in for all her tips!   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Christine’s experience of being chosen to be in the Adobe Creative Residency program How she started working on her business during the residency program What types of products and how many SKUs she has within her business How she merged her scrapbooking and travel interests with the business needs Her process of managing new product releases How she keeps up with discontinuing products with frequent launches How she’s used assets from past stamp kits for new product development What systems and processes she put in place when moving from the U.S. to the Philippines  What it was like working with a fulfillment center and how she decided which one to use How she set up a production schedule for herself Her marketing strategy for the one-month release cycle of products Why she feels like product makers shouldn’t be afraid to innovate and push beyond “industry standards” What’s coming next with Christine and Everyday Explorers Co. For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp170 SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Have you ever considered what it might be like to marry your interests and passions within your business? In this episode, I brought on Jordan Kentris of A Good Day, a bespoke experience studio specializing in custom stationery, events, branding and user experience.  Jordan has taken his love for physical products and his background in User Experience (UX)  to create a better customer journey for his clients. We talk about what he’s done to create this process for his customers and the benefits that come with developing a strong focus on customer experience. He gives us a better look into how you can incorporate this into your email marketing strategy and what data you should be looking for to create change within your business. Be sure to take notes because Jordan shares a few concrete strategies you can implement and his favorite tech tools for tracking customer engagement on your website. If you want to learn more from Jordan, join us in Proof to Product LABS.  He’s one of our LABS members and we have a special Coffee Chat coming up where he’ll answer user experience questions for the group! ON TODAY’S EPISODE:   How he’s begun to merge the two sides of his business together Why this work is important to Jordan How he goes about creating a strong user experience What you can do to create and market your products in a way that relates to your ideal customer Why Jordan doesn’t like focus groups  The direct benefits he’s experienced by placing a strong focus on customer experience What you should be looking for within your analytics to create change His recommendations on the UX, user experience and customer journey for people on your email list How email marketing can give the feeling of a one on one conversation with customers How Jordan defines success in his business and life What he’s focusing on for the rest of the year within his business For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp169 SLOW STEADY GROWTH ARE HOW STRONG BUSINESSES ARE BUILT Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ Inside Proof to Product LABS, you’ll receive the support, education and accountability to move your business towards your goals.   ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our 12-month group coaching program built specifically for product based business owners. SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! It’s no secret that putting yourself out there can be a huge hurdle for many entrepreneurs. In today’s episode, I was joined by Paper Camp Alum and LABS member, Tiffany McGraw of Paper Rehab. Tiffany gives us insight into her own experience of overcoming the vulnerability of pitching herself as an entrepreneur by reframing the word “no” to “not right now” in her mind.  Tiffany has a wonderful mission behind her brand which was designed to normalize and focus on mental health care, especially for those in the African American community. She initially started her business to fulfill her dream of seeing herself reflected on greeting cards. She shares so much wisdom in this episode about how she overcame challenges that she’s faced in her business, mindset changes she made around making a living selling greeting cards and why you need to know your “why” for doing what you do.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: One thing Tiffany wishes she knew before starting her business What she was doing before starting Paper Rehab How her calling of creating a greeting card line followed her into all of her positions  The main focus and mission of Tiffany’s product line Where she pulls inspiration from for her greeting cards Challenges that she faced within her first year of business How she discovered PaperCamp and made the decision to do it Mindset shifts she’s had to overcome around making a living in this career path Revenue streams that she’s set up for her business Tiffany’s thoughts on knowing your “why” Why she reframes “no” to “not right now”  What’s next for Tiffany and Paper Rehab Her advice on taking opportunities and being consistent For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp168 Join the Paper Camp E-Course Waitlist! Since 2011, we’ve helped thousands of brands get their products on the shelves of their favorite shops - big and small.  Our Paper Camp alumni can be found in Target, Nordstrom, Container Store, Barnes & Nobles, Urban Outfitters and independent boutiques around the world. In Paper Camp we teach industry standards for product development, pricing, where to source your products and wholesale sales & marketing strategies.  And, this fall we’re adding some special content for how to navigate wholesale during covid.  Specifically, how to reach out to stores without feeling slimy or salesy, how to market for online trade shows and how to leverage online tools for more sales. Paper Camp sells out every time we offer it, so be sure to jump on the waitlist to get first dibs on tickets! Registration opens August 24th and class starts August 31st! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! As more and more of you are dipping your toes into the world of virtual tradeshows I’ve been receiving questions on how to build out strategic marketing plans for these events.   That’s why today I am exploring the tactics you can implement to help reach more of your wholesale customers at a virtual tradeshow event. You’ll learn how you can determine if a virtual tradeshow is the right fit for you and your budget. I discuss using a tiered outreach system and all of the different avenues I recommend using (plus tips for optimizing each one!)   ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  Questions to ask yourself when considering attending a virtual tradeshow Why I recommend a tiered outreach system The importance of email marketing and getting in touch with your leads How you should be utilizing snail mail before and after the show (and things you can include in mailings) How to leverage your social media and tips for what to post, repurposing and being active Why you should be customizing your online showroom How you can make the most out of your marketing by making sure that your branding is cohesive and aligned with your overall marketing strategy For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp167 Join the Paper Camp E-Course Waitlist! Since 2011, we’ve helped thousands of brands get their products on the shelves of their favorite shops - big and small.  Our Paper Camp alumni can be found in Target, Nordstrom, Container Store, Barnes & Nobles, Urban Outfitters and independent boutiques around the world. In Paper Camp we teach industry standards for product development, pricing, where to source your products and wholesale sales & marketing strategies.  And, this fall we’re adding some special content for how to navigate wholesale during covid.  Specifically, how to reach out to stores without feeling slimy or salesy, how to market for online trade shows and how to leverage online tools for more sales. Paper Camp sells out every time we offer it, so be sure to jump on the waitlist to get first dibs on tickets! Registration closes August 29th and class starts August 31st! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! As we all continue to navigate through this pandemic it’s important that you continue to connect with your customers and build strong relationships with them.  Something as simple as checking in with your wholesale clients or retail customers can go a long way in making them feel cared for. That’s exactly what today’s guest, Kate Murray of Quick Brown Fox Letterpress has done to make sure she’s supporting her customers. In this episode, Kate shares her story of how she got started in the printing industry. She talks about how she saved an old letterpress from the scrapyard and spent three months bringing it back to life. Kate and I talk about the various trade shows she’s done and her different revenue streams. She also discusses the biggest challenges she faces within her business and her plans for expanding her product line beyond just stationery.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Kate got started with Quick Brown Fox Letterpress Her process for finding her first letterpress Kate’s experience of doing a kick starter campaign The restoration process of the letterpress she purchased How Kate got into wholesale and her first tradeshow from the beginning What revenue streams Kate has within her business Her experiences with doing trade shows What types of marketing she uses to reach her customers Why now is the time to check up on and support each other How she’s built a community for stationery designers  The most challenging part of running and building her business over the last 5 years What she’s most proud of in her business What’s next for her business For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp166 Join the Paper Camp E-Course Waitlist! Since 2011, we’ve helped thousands of brands get their products on the shelves of their favorite shops - big and small.  Our Paper Camp alumni can be found in Target, Nordstrom, Container Store, Barnes & Nobles, Urban Outfitters and independent boutiques around the world. In Paper Camp we teach industry standards for product development, pricing, where to source your products and wholesale sales & marketing strategies.  And, this fall we’re adding some special content for how to navigate wholesale during covid.  Specifically, how to reach out to stores without feeling slimy or salesy, how to market for online trade shows and how to leverage online tools for more sales. Paper Camp sells out every time we offer it, so be sure to jump on the waitlist to get first dibs on tickets! Registration opens August 24th and class starts August 31st! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Does being an entrepreneur ever make you feel overwhelmed? Maybe you’re having tons of business success and checking things off of your to-do list but you still don’t feel satisfied at the end of the day. I’m a firm believer in creating strategic plans and taking action in business. Sometimes, however, our mindset, boundaries, personal beliefs and the stories we tell ourselves can make executing those plans harder than necessary. In this episode, I was joined by Jessica Eley, a mindset coach that helps high-achieving entrepreneurs get where they want to go (while enjoying the path there).  We explore the practices and strategies you can use to boost your confidence and change your mindset. Jessica shares why it might be success that’s actually holding you back in business and why you must always remind yourself that you have options!  Jessica and I discuss pushing forward, what to do if you’re feeling stretched thin and taking the time to understand what you truly want to be doing.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Who Jessica works with and how she helps them Her advice for people who are feeling maxed out and stretched thin How to shift the way you’re thinking into a more positive outlook Why it’s essential to consider all of your options Why Jessica believes that success holds people back more than failure How to push forward into the success you want to build Why you have to let go of identities that you feel like you have to have Tools you can use to boost your confidence and mindset How “or thinking” is slowing you down What types of programs Jessica offers For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp165 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Have you ever wondered what it might be like to turn your hobby into a business? That’s exactly what today’s guest, Amber Kemp-Gerstel did and today she came on to talk about her journey in the crafting industry. Amber is a powerhouse. Not only does she have a blog called Damask Love but she also runs YayDay Paper Co., selling digital products and leveraging a subscription model. You might recognize her from NBC’s TV show, Making It (she was a finalist in 2018) or from being the host of Disney Family Sundays on Disney+.  In this episode, she talks about how she got into her business and how she was able to start working with big brands in the industry. She shares some tips for how she sends pitches and why you have to make it really easy for people to say,  ‘yes!’ We also talk about why representation matters and how the creative community can step up to uplift other artists, crafters and makers of color. This is very important work that we’re taking seriously at Proof to Product and I appreciated her for sharing her thoughts and opinions about how we can take steps forward with grace (even though we may make mistakes along the way). ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Amber went from working in family and child psychology to being a strong force in the crafting world The lightbulb moment where she realized it was time to quit her job How she got into working with brands like JoAnn Fabrics and Martha Stewart Living What Amber includes in pitches she sends to brands Why you should make it simple for people to say “yes” to you Why she decided to do a business model built off of digital products and leveraging a subscription model Her tips for marketing your products to your audience How Amber makes her voice heard despite the lack of diversity and visibility for women of color in the crafting space Why representation is needed in every industry Why you should do the things you can practically do to better the community for everyone  What Amber is working on right now in her businesses For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp164 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! I know right now has been a very confusing time for so many of us... I actually brought on Meg Sutton today for a hot seat episode to really dive deep into where she should be focusing in her business.  You might be familiar with Meg as she has been on the podcast a few times before and is a long time client of mine. Meg Sutton is the boss lady and doodler behind Belle and Union and As her company has evolved and COVID has changed the economy, she’s felt unsure of where she should be focusing her time and energy to ensure long-term stability for her business.  We take a look into her numbers including income percentages, expenses, the challenges she’s facing and her future goals. We did an exercise and I gave her some of my best advice to help her gain some clarity around what channels of her business she should make her priority. The chat I had with Meg revealed some things that she could focus on and think about over the next few months. I advised her to take a deep look at what she could do to cut down expenses in her brick and mortar shop and why she should do some forecasting when looking into her next brick and mortar location. I know many seasoned business owners are facing similar situations to what Meg is going through right now so I wanted to share this conversation in hopes it could inspire you and help bring clarity for you in your own business!  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: What Meg does in her business, Belle & Union What she’s working on and what she needs help with right now in her business The things that Meg is hoping to rethink business-wise What her business revenue looks like for the wholesale, retail and custom channels What her time, money, heart and impact looks like in relation to those channels Katie’s advice for Meg about referring out for the custom side of her business What Katie advised Meg to do about the wholesale and retail side of her business Meg’s experience with the landlords for her retail space and thoughts about moving spaces Katie’s homework for Meg around vision planning, trimming expenses and forecasting For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp163 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Does Pinterest sometimes feel like just another social media platform you have to keep up with? I’m here to tell you this: it’s so much more than that. Pinterest is a powerful search engine, much like Google and by leveraging your Pinterest strategy, you could potentially be bringing tons of traffic to your website.   That’s why I wanted to bring on Diana Keeler. Diana has worked for and contributed to some of the biggest editorial outlets in the world and now works with retailers and editors to capture the attention of new readers and potential buyers on Pinterest.    Today Diana and I talk about playing the long game of Pinterest. We talk about everything from how to get started, why you need to optimize your pins and keywords and what tools to use to create a consistent pinning strategy. We also chat about the Verified Merchant Program that Pinterest recently rolled out and why you should consider investing in advertising on Pinterest.    If you’re ready to up your Pinterest strategy or want to learn how to bring over more people to your website from Pinterest then this is the episode for you!   ON TODAY’S EPISODE:   Misconceptions that people have about using Pinterest How she got nearly 150,000 sessions to her blog from Pinterest How she’s seen growth on her email list with little incentives Mistakes that people make when getting started on Pinterest Why you need to have clear descriptions for your pins Why your Google Analytics is more valuable than Pinterest’s analytics tools The tool she recommends  to simplify your Pinterest strategy The type of graphics you should focus on when creating pins Why you need to claim your website and have a business account on Pinterest How Pinterest is upping their game for product makers using the Verified Merchant Program What Diane does to help people grow a stronger Pinterest presence Her thoughts on why you should be using Pinterest ads For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp162 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW!   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Did you know that when someone lands on your website you only have 5 seconds to capture their attention? That’s not a lot of time, so I wanted to bring on an expert to help you better understand how you can maximize those 5 seconds and get people to stick around longer.    Whether you’ve been in business for many years or are just getting started you’re in for a treat with this guest, Jessica Freeman. Jessica Freeman is the founder of Jess Creatives. She is a web designer, tech strategist, and an expert in all things SEO and website optimization. Jessica is someone who has a wealth of knowledge in this field and has been a huge help to me and my business for the last five years.   She shares so much helpful insight today about leveraging keywords for SEO (including how to research keywords and where to put them on your website). We talk about the mistakes many business owners make on their websites so you know exactly what to avoid!    We chat about everything from navigation bars and product thumbnails to her thoughts on using carousel images. She also shares tools you can use for research and analyzing your audience’s behavior. Be sure to stick around to the end to hear the three takeaways that I want you to get from this episode!   ON TODAY’S EPISODE:   The biggest mistakes she sees people making on their websites Strategies you can utilize to maximize the first 5 seconds that a visitor arrives on your website Why Jessica doesn’t recommend using carousel images on your website Her advice on minimizing the number of navigation buttons  Jessica’s thoughts on putting product thumbnails on your homepage Why SEO is important for online businesses (especially product-based business owners) How to do keyword research for your SEO strategy The details you should be looking for when doing your keyword searches Where you should include keywords on your website How often you should look at Google Analytics and the things you should analyze Her thoughts on heat map tools and how to use them to better understand your audience Jessica’s advice for new business owners on optimizing their websites from the start The advice she has for seasoned business owners on gaining more visibility on Google searches For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp161 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Splitting your company into two sister brands is not for everyone. However, it could be an option for you if you are finding yourself with very different product offerings (and a discrepancy in exactly who you're targeting). That was the case for today’s guest, Stephanie Clarke.    Some of you might remember Stephanie as she’s been on the podcast before. If you need a refresher, make sure to go back and listen to Episode 21 where we talked about how she’s built her team and her packaging solutions. Stephanie is the founder of two sister brands, Dahlia Press and Chloe Clarke Paper. Dahlia Press is her wholesale and direct to consumer business and her new brand, Chloe Clarke Paper was created for custom work such as wedding invitations and branding projects.   In this episode, you’ll get to hear her story of what inspired her to split her company into two different brands. This has been a great move for Stephanie both personally and professionally and she shares how it’s improved the quality of her life and business.    Stephanie gives us insight into what she did to make this dream a reality including who she leaned on for support during this transition and the things she did to make it go as smoothly as possible. If this is something you’ve been considering for your business, you’ll want to listen closely as she shares her advice on moving forward with this transition. ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Stephanie’s business model has changed over the past year How separating the brands has helped to smooth processes of marketing, communication and more Stephanie’s decision of deciding to split the brands How her decision has improved her quality of life and the ways the business runs Her reasoning behind the naming of her businesses What tactics and messaging she used for her rollout The timeline of creating the sister brand, Chloe Clarke Paper What kind of help Stephanie hired to make this vision a reality The things she did early on to make this transition seamless What tools she uses for her social media strategy Her advice for someone who is considering making a similar transition What’s in the works for Dahlia Press and Chloe Clarke Paper For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp160 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

We spend years growing our product lines, working hard to add more SKUs and expanding into new product categories. But at what point is it too much? How much product is too much? On today's Proof to Product episode, Katie Hunt talks explains when you should consider discontinuing product. She also offers strategies for what to do with your discontinued inventory to recoup some costs.   ON TODAY'S EPISODE: When is an appropriate time to discontinue products When you shouldn't discontinue something How to get rid of inventory when you decide to discontinue a product An example of a flash sale or fire sale Why donating discontinued products might be a good option for you Why you might want to bring in someone else for a fresh perspective   Full show notes at: https://bit.ly/PTPEp-159 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW!   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Slow and steady growth is how strong businesses are built. This is something that I strongly believe and is exactly what today’s guest, Stephanie Harvey has done as she has grown her business.   Stephanie Harvey is the artist and entrepreneur behind exit343design. She’s a Paper Camp alumni who's been in the business since falling in love with screen printing during college in 2007. What first started as a passion project and side hustle evolved into her full-time gig after a 10 year slow and organic growth.    She and I dive deep into the marketing strategies she uses to nurture the retail and wholesale sides of her business including how she leverages email and why she’s gotten into blogging.   We also explore why she’s building an operations manual to document the systems and processes within her business. You’ll get to hear what tools she recommends for building these systems and how she uses them to set up her processes. Stephanie also shares what she wishes she knew before starting her business and why it’s important to be frugal, but not cheap when making investments into your business.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Stephanie started her business and what products she sells Why Stephanie believes in slow, organic growth  What sales channels Stephanie uses for her business How Stephanie has built the retail side of her business and what marketing tactics she’s used Stephanie’s experience of using blogging to grow her business How she leverages email for her retail and wholesale business Incorporating workflows to make things run more smoothly What Stephanie does to approach her workflow process The tools that she uses to manage her inventory What Stephanie wishes she knew before starting her business Stephanie’s plans for what’s next in her business  For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp158 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW!   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

This week, we are amplifying the voices of black artists and business leaders by re-running three of our previous episodes. Have you ever come home from a long day at your corporate job and realized like, “Okay, so my job is feeding my family, but definitely not my soul.” What do you do? Well, today's Proof to Product guest is telling us how she figured it out. By age 28, Nicole Walters was a highly-paid executive at a Fortune 500 company, managing multibillion dollar accounts, but something wasn’t right. So Nicole quit her corporate job, and she made waves when she quit in front of 10,000 people while live streaming on Periscope. She went on to open her own private business and product development consulting firm, The Monetized Life.  As Nicole’s audience ramped up so did her revenue—she made $11,000 in the first three weeks of working with small business clients full time. Now, when she’s not hanging out with her husband and their three foster kids, she shares her secrets to earning “passive income” with other entrepreneurs through her wildly popular online course, 1K1Day. “I teach people how to add commas to their bank accounts,” says Nicole. “They learn that they don’t have to trade time for money.” On today's episode, Nicole and I sit down to talk about common mistakes she sees eager entrepreneurs making and why old school sales strategies still work. We also talk about why you can't rely solely on social media for sales, the importance of having multiple revenue streams and why you need to treat your business like a business from day one.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  Common mistakes Nicole sees eager entrepreneurs making Tips on where to focus your marketing time and money The problem of relying on social media platforms  Benefits of sticking with the old school methods What really gets customers in the door How to make a 40-50 hour work week feel like 4 hours The lessons Nicole took from corporate life and applied as an entrepreneur Her strongest marketing tool today Nicole’s favorite success stories How saying no is a form of self care  Advice for brand new business owners and entrepreneurs experiencing growing pains  The importance of acting like a business from the get-go What success looks like for Nicole today For full show notes and resources, head to https://bit.ly/FromtheArchives SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

This week, we are amplifying the voices of black artists and business leaders by re-running three of our previous episodes. When we first start our businesses, more often than not, we don’t have the big picture idea of what our brand or business will look like down the road. So many of us embark on this so-called maker’s journey, where we truly discover our strengths, opportunities, and long term vision for our business. Lucky for us, one of our talented Paper Camp alumni, Genesis Duncan of Graphic Anthology, is joining us today on Episode 138 of Proof to Product to share her experience and advice for other makers on the path.  Based in Portland, Oregon, Genesis started Graphic Anthology in 2010 with just three art prints and an Etsy shop. Almost a decade later, her product line has grown to include a wide range of greeting cards and gift items that focus on joy, simplicity, and strengthening relationships with those you love most. Today's episode is a powerful one and I know it will resonate with many of you. We talk about how Genesis started her business as a creative outlet and hobby, and why she had to shift her mindset and step into her role and title as an entrepreneur and business owner. Genesis also shares how adding a line of Spanish greeting cards was not only beneficial to her business, but also her personal development.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: What products Genesis makes and sells The sales channels she utilizes How she decided to start her own business  Life’s hurdles and how they led Genesis to where she is today Finding silver linings and following your heart Advice for shifting your mindset from maker to business owner How Genesis manages the tactical aspects of Graphic Anthology The importance of picking deadlines and sticking with them  How Paper Camp helped solidify her business mindset What Genesis does to differentiate her products in the market Testing products, taking risks, and discovering new segments Advice for other small business owners and creative CEOs  For full show notes and resources, head to https://bit.ly/FromtheArchives   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!    ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

This week, we are amplifying the voices of black artists and business leaders by re-running three of our previous episodes. Today we have a great episode in store for you with guest Jeanetta Gonzales, a Los Angeles-based graphic designer, and illustrator. Jeanetta began her career as a graphic designer working for corporate companies such as WedMD, Mattel and The Disney Store. She later parlayed her digital and fine art skills into surface design working as a textile designer and style guide designer for consumer products and creating illustrations and art that she licenses to manufacturers for products sold online and in major retail stores. On top of all of this, Jeanetta also runs her own online store where she sells her art on print items, mugs, fabric, home decor items and more. On today’s episode, Jeanetta shares her experience with licensing and tells us why you have to be in it for the long game. We talk about why relationships are so important in business, why it’s necessary to create art and products with a unique point of view, and her goal to spread joy through a variety of creative means.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  Common misconceptions that creative entrepreneurs have about licensing their work Tips for people that are putting together their portfolio How Jeanetta defines her artistic style and keeps it original The importance of experimenting What it took to overcome fears of failure and success Her 10 year journey of learning and creating When Jeanetta started to see traction in own design work What she learned from tradeshows Being okay with not being perfect  Pivoting from her day job and shifting into licensing  Jeanette’s favorite products to produce  Her advice for other creative entrepreneurs and what’s coming up next  For full show notes and resources, head to https://bit.ly/FromtheArchives   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!    ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Are you making sure to pay yourself for your work? There’s often a big misconception that only new business owners struggle with how to pay themselves for their time, effort and expertise. However, it’s no secret that both new and experienced entrepreneurs run into this problem from time to time.   I wanted to make things a little easier for you so in this episode I shared two simple strategies for how to pay yourself based on where you’re at in your business. You’ll hear why you need to pay yourself, how to choose a format of payment that works for you and why you should get on a payment schedule. I also explored why you should keep it simple (and automate where possible), the importance of revisiting your numbers as things change and of course, why you should seek advice from a CPA or financial planner.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  The misconception that only new business owners struggle with paying themselves How I paid myself at the beginning of my business  My recommendations for paying yourself as an experienced business owner How you can look at data and analytics as a point of reference in when making decisions about how much to pay yourself What to look at when deciding how to use your profits  For full show notes and resources, head to: bit.ly/PTPEp157 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join the wait list for Proof to Product Labs, our new group coaching experience coming soon!     SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Are you ready to get back time in your business to work on the projects and tasks that you really love? The ones that will help you to move the needle further toward your goal?  If you’ve been busy doing all of the things then you might be wondering if now is the right time to hire in your business. That’s why I brought on Natalie Gingrich from The Ops Authority. Natalie has been in operations for two decades and now she helps online business owners with support and strategy for the operational side of their business. We get into everything you could possibly want to know about the best hiring practices. She shares how you’ll know when is the right time to hire and how you can get crystal clear on the job you’re looking to hire for. Natalie explains why this is critical and how an application is a key component in finding the right team member for the role. She and I discuss how to measure the value that team members are adding to your business. She also discusses why you’ll want to invest a good amount of time in hiring to avoid mishaps like turnover or unrealistic expectations on either side of the hiring process.  This episode is packed with so much hiring wisdom so grab a notebook, listen closely and be sure to download Natalie’s free hiring guide for the next time you’re looking to outsource in your business. ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Natalie knew she was ready to hire her first team member within her business Pain points and indicators to be on the lookout for when deciding if it's time to hire What you should think about when deciding what to DIY and what to outsource How to get crystal clear on what the needs are in your business Why you need to create a true job description to reduce turnover How to find the right people for the job Her advice on choosing the right candidate at the right price for the job How to measure your return on investment using key results areas Natalie’s thoughts on trial periods and onboarding processes How you can use the Hiring Plan for your next hire Her plans for launching an association and what’s coming next in her business For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp156 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

How amazing does it sound to have someone else take over your packing and shipping needs? Think about it… How many hours a day (or even a week) could that save you?  Having a fulfillment warehouse that takes care of this for you could lend you time in your busy schedule. It might even be able to save you money in the long run. In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking about that with Paper Camp Alum, Jomana Siddiqui.  Jomana is the creative behind 3, yes you heard that right, 3 different businesses. She runs a graphic design business called Pences Design Studio, a retail business named modernEID all while authoring a lifestyle blog.  We get into what her experience was with working with a manufacturing company in China. Plus, the hiccup she faced after working with them. She shares how using a fulfillment center changed her business for the better. Jomana also discusses how connections and being in the right place at the right time can help land partnerships with brands you dream of working with.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Jomana got started with her three different businesses How she balances the time she spends on each of her companies Using content batching to get work completed Her manufacturing process and how it’s evolved over time How working with a fulfillment center was a huge turning point in her business Jomana’s worries about using a fulfillment center  Her experience of working with a manufacturing company in China The process she went through to find new manufacturers How her partnerships with Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Walmart came about What she wishes she’d have known when starting her businesses What’s next for Jomana’s brands For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp155 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Earlier this week, my friend Kristen Ley of Thimblepress and KristenLey.com and I hosted a free webinar where we talked about taking our business temperature.   As small business owners so much of our time is spent working with our head down working on the most urgent and pressing things that need our attention.  Taking your business temperature means that you’re intentionally making time to stop and look at the bigger picture vision, strategy and execution of your business plans. Today’s episode is a replay from the live webinar we hosted.  We talked about how often you should be taking your business temperature, where to start if you’ve never taken your business temperature, and Kristen and I share examples of things we’ve learned about ourselves and our business by doing these check-ins.  I also share the four key factors I consider when making decisions in my business and explain how you can leverage them, too. Before we jump in, I wanted to remind you that May 8th is the last day to join Proof to Product Labs as a Founding Member.  Founding members get 5 incredible bonuses including my profitability calculator and production schedule planner AND they lock in our discounted rate of $49/month for as long as they are a member.  The bonuses will go away and the price will jump to $79/mo starting May 9th.  So head to prooftoproduct.com/labs to secure your founding member spot! ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How often we should be taking our business temperature What types of things we should review & look at in our business Examples of something I started doing more of based on these check-ins Examples of things I started doing less of Four key considerations for making business decisions Where new businesses should start with their business check-ins When to hire a bookkeeper   RESOURCES:Kristen Ley’s free Facebook Group PTP Podcast episode with Greg Higdon of Grow the Books CONNECT:  Kristen Ley, Thimblepress - @kristen_ley and @thimblepress   YOU DON’T HAVE TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS ALONE! Get 12 months of coaching & community inside Proof to Product Labs ✔ Live monthly masterclass​✔ Live monthly group coaching calls✔ Resources & tools built for product businesses✔ Private community (not on Facebook!)✔ Exclusive discounts from our PTP Partners Plus 5 Founding Member bonuses that will save you time, money and effort! ​All for only $49/month through May 8th!  Join us!     SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Are you ready for copy that converts? If you said yes, which I am sure you did then I am positive you’ll enjoy today’s episode. I had a conversation with Prerna Malik, a certified conversion copywriter and co-founder of Content Bistro.  Prerna has mastered the recipe for writing copy that balances persuasion and personality with the scientific precision of conversion science to ensure that you are maximizing sales. Prerna shares some of her BEST copywriting tips (and mistakes to watch out for!) She goes in-depth on how to use tools such as heat mapping to measure if your copy is working for you. You’ll hear what you should look for when hiring a copywriter including what you should have in place beforehand. She also shares why your copy needs personalization to be effective. If you’ve got copy that just isn’t giving you the results you desire then you’ll definitely want to hear this episode.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: The most important piece of content for your website How Prerna got into conversion copywriting What conversion copywriting is The types of projects Prerna does for product based business owners and eCommerce shops Why you must personalize copy if you want to build relationships and see results How to know if a copywriter will be a fit for your brand voice Why your copy needs to have the same vibe throughout platforms The assets and details you need to have ready before hiring a copywriter Why every email sequence needs to have a marketing goal  Why you need to have your audience established before writing copy Mistakes that product based business owners are making with regards to their copy Tools to pay attention to and how to leverage measuring metrics What Prerna’s working on for Content Bistro  For full show notes and resources head to bit.ly/PTPEp154 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! You might know that you need to set financial goals for your business. But maybe you feel like you have absolutely no idea where to start. Maybe you feel overwhelmed even thinking about it? Whatever the case, if that sounds like you then you’re in for a treat with today’s live coaching session. I caught up with Paper Camp alumni, Jessica Baskin to give her the low-down on setting financial goals for your business. Jessica got real about the financial mindset challenges she’s been facing and together, we broke them down. I offered her a few actionable steps she could take to get her more aligned with her numbers. We talked about how she could get clear on who she’s speaking to which would improve her marketing efforts (and in turn get her closer to those financial goals). This conversation uncovered a few of the best practices for determining what your highest and best use products (or services) for your business. Of course, I also gave Jessica some homework around her financial goals where she’ll be taking a look at the good, better and best financial number goals. This is essential because if you know your goals, you know exactly what to aim for.  ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How Jessica got into her business and started Joy Lark Studio Jessica’s main goal that she wants to improve upon on in her business  The two ways that Katie advises companies to approach their finances when setting financial goals Creating good, better and best number goals for yourself so you know what to aim for Identifying the revenue streams that are the highest and best use for your business Katie’s advice for Jessica about getting crystal clear on which audience to speak to first Why your outreach strategy may be different depending on your audience Making a marketing plan to help you hit your financial goals Why you should have a backup plan for slower months of business to continue pushing toward your financial goals For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp153 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience OPEN NOW! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! With the current state of our world, I thought it’d be great to bring someone on the podcast who radiates optimism and confidence. In this episode, you’ll be hearing my conversation with Jess Ekstrom, founder of Headbands of Hope and the author of Chasing the Bright Side.  Jess and I dive deep into how she’s built her business and it’s growth over the past eight years. Through her years in business, she’s learned how to find new solutions to support her customers on both the retail and wholesale side. We also talk about how she’s had to pivot her business during this time which prompted her to host a virtual conference. She shares how she got the co-founder of Netflix to speak at her conference (pretty cool, right?!) She also talks about why she believes in “throwing darts and seeing what sticks” in her business.  We get into what it truly means to chase the bright side. She gives her advice about maintaining your childlike optimism throughout life. Jess and I discuss how to use downtime to recenter yourself (which can bring forth more creativity and innovation!)   ON TODAY’S EPISODE: What prompted Jess to write her book, Chasing the Bright Side Being optimistic about your products and the impact they have on the world Her advice on the steps to take to become more optimistic Why Jess believes confidence is more important than knowledge Maintaining a childlike optimism as you get older Why Jess started Headbands of Hope Trusting your gut when making decisions How she’s shifted her mission for her business over the past year How Jess has built her business on “throwing darts and seeing what sticks” Hosting a virtual tradeshow on YouTube Figuring out how to continue to provide value during this time Pivoting their donation model to help overcome the mask shortage that hospitals are facing Using your downtime to recenter yourself to help spark creativity and innovation What the My Bright Side campaign is and why she started it What’s coming next for Headbands of Hope How Jess got the cofounder of Netflix to be a speaker at her virtual conference For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp152 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join the wait list for Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience coming soon! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Last week I shared how I’m getting back to basics and what I’m focusing on in my business right now.  And, today I’m bringing some of my mastermind clients back on the show to talk about how they are proactively taking steps to diversify and strengthen their business.  Today’s episode features Lisa Sarmento from Tiramisu Paperie, Kiwi Schloffel from Craft Boner and Sara McNally from Constellation & Co. and Snail Mail Superstar Some key take-aways that I want to point out from today’s episode: This episode is a great example of how different companies have been affected by covid-19. It is also a great reminder that while there are a lot of things happening around us right now that we CAN NOT control.  There are a lot of things we do control. We do have power to make changes to our products, shift our messaging and pivot how we’re supporting our customers. I’m really proud of these ladies, and everyone in my mastermind group for being agile and creative in how they are doing business right now.  We all need to keep pushing forward — and they are doing just that.    Be sure to check out our #papercampalum hashtag on Instagram to see new products, promotions and behind the scenes of the small businesses in our Paper Camp community.   I’ve also included the links to today’s guests in our show notes -- thanks for supporting small businesses! LINKS: Proof to Product Mastermind  Lisa Sarmento, Tiramisu Paperie - www.tiramisupaperie.com | @tiramisupaperie  Kiwi Schloffel, Craft Boner -  www.craftboner.com | @craftboner  | Youtube Sara McNally, Constellation & Co - www.constellationco.com | @constellationco  | Snail Mail Superstar  Follow the small businesses in our Paper Camp Community on Instagram by using the #papercampalum hashtag   SMALL WINS LEAD TO BIG WINS Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join the wait list for Proof to Product Labs, our new community experience coming soon!   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! As much of the world is currently in isolation and practicing social distancing, I wanted to encourage you. I hope this episode will help you find direction in this uncertain time and remind you to keep pushing forward. To be completely honest, my head was spinning with things that I wanted to say but I know we’re all facing completely different circumstances.   None of us have ever faced something like this before and we’re all going through something different from one another. Business advice isn’t a one size fits all and what works for one person may not work for someone else so today I want to share what I’m doing in my business in case it’s relatable or helpful for you.   ON TODAY’S EPISODE:  How right now is an unprecedented time and we’re all dealing with this in different ways Setting priorities within the business Taking a look at your business finances to examine your runway and unnecessary expenses Stripping down to the basics of executing certain processes Connecting with your people - clients, colleagues, community members For Full Show Notes and Resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp150 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join the wait list for Proof to Product Labs, our new group coaching experience coming soon!   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

I sat down with my financial planner, Mary Beth Storjohann today to talk about financial relief and resources for small businesses available through the CARES Act. Today we’re talking about the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (also called EIDL), the Paycheck Protection Program (also called PPP) and the Deferral of Payment of Payroll Taxes. This is an ever evolving situation right now, so Mary Beth is sharing the current details with us today, April 3rd.    Remember to stay calm, I know things feel stressful right now but there a a variety of options and forms of aid available to all of us.  I encourage you to reach out to your CPAs & financial planners to figure out which plans are best for you. And, if you decide to apply for PPP, apply with the bank that you’re currently doing your business banking with. Check the links below for more information: LINKS: EIDL:https://www.forbes.com/sites/brianthompson1/2020/03/29/getting-cash-for-your-small-business-through-the-cares-act/#c053e4d43a0a https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance Lender Match:https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Info: Borrowershttps://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck-protection-program-ppp https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/PPP--Fact-Sheet.pdf https://www.uschamber.com/sites/default/files/023595_comm_corona_virus_smallbiz_loan_final.pdf https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/2/9/29fc1ae7-879a-4de0-97d5-ab0a0cb558c8/1BC9E5AB74965E686FC6EBC019EC358F.the-small-business-owner-s-guide-to-the-cares-act-final-.pdf https://www.sba.gov/page/coronavirus-covid-19-small-business-guidance-loan-resources https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/paycheck-protection-program-ppp https://www.visualcapitalist.com/the-anatomy-of-the-2-trillion-covid-19-stimulus-bill/   Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join the wait list for Proof to Product Labs, our new group coaching experience coming soon! SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!    ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!  

Kristen Ley recently asked me and our peer mastermind group to come together for a free webinar to support & encourage other small business owners.  It was such an amazing conversation that I asked Kristen if we could rerun the audio version here on our podcast, so today’s episode is just that. Today’s episode features feedback from me,  Kristen Ley of Thimblepress, Tonya Dalton of Inkwell Press, Jenn Jett of The Well Summit and Myrna Daramy of Myrna & Co.   We discuss how we’re handling COVID-19 in our own businesses, recommendations for other small business owners, how to serve your customers, what to prioritize right now and we even share how we’re navigating working from home with children. ON TODAY’S EPISODE: How small businesses can navigate COVID-19 Why community is so important Why now is the perfect time to invest in yourself & your business What we’re prioritizing in our own businesses Tips for working at home with children What we’re optimistic about during this weird & crazy time. For full show notes and resources, visit bit.ly/PTPEP149 Small Wins Lead to Big Wins Building a business is a long game, won with patience, fortitude, intentional decisions and passion.​ ​​Slow sustainable growth is how strong businesses are built and we want to help you get there. ​Join the wait list for Proof to Product Labs, our new group coaching experience coming soon!   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!  ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

I was on the phone with Zoe Scharf of Greetabl this morning and  we decided to hit record on our conversation. As you may remember, Zoe is one of our Paper Camp alumni and she was on episode 50 of Proof to Product telling her start up story, then she came back for episode 88 where she talked about email sequences and how they love on their clients. Today we’re talking about a new program that Zoe and the team at Greetabl are launching to support small business owners and independent makers called The Platform Partner Program. Listen on for details about how the program works, how you can apply and what Zoe feels optimistic about during this Covid-19 pandemic. RESOURCES: www.greetabl.com Application | www.greetabl.com/apply 050 | How angel investing fueled their business growth with Zoe Scharf, Greetabl 88 | Email Sequences, Sales Funnels and Facebook Ads with Zoë Scharf from Greetabl   SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!    ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!

Hey friends! Has the thought of expanding into new product categories crossed your mind lately? You aren’t alone! In fact, today I had on a Paper Camp alumni for a live coaching session where we chat ALL about her hopes to expand into new product categories. It can be pretty scary to try to logistically plan for expansion but I think today’s episode will be really helpful for all of you who are looking to bring on more products to serve your people. What are the first steps to this process? For today’s guest, Tomi Hill of Little Happy Things, we broke down the steps she needs to take to make this happen and since it was a coaching episode, I gave her my advice and some homework so she could start taking action right away! I challenged her to start thinking and dreaming big about the new product category she’d want to layer in and to start setting some goals around that. We broke through some of the barriers that have been holding her back and had a frank discussion about diving deeper into the people you really want to serve. At the end of the day, it’s about recognizing WHO your customer is at the core - what kind of solutions are you providing for them? What problems do they have that your products solve? What stores do they shop at? We also touch on digging into the financials (because knowing your numbers is key to success) and looking through your numbers from both a retail and wholesale lense.    ON TODAY’S EPISODE: Why Tomi got into her business, Little Happy Things Transitioning away from wooden dolls into enamel pins, stickers and other gift items Making the leap from an Etsy shop to a wholesale model Making all of your products cohesive with one another Determining which products sell the best (and honing in on those) Looking at your products from a financial and passion perspective Layering in one new product category at a time to figure out the manufacturing process, fulfillment and the numbers (and of course, profits!) Getting to know your audience personally and finding out what they want and need Dialing it back to the basics, no matter how new or seasoned your business is For full show notes and resources, head to bit.ly/PTPEp148 SUBSCRIBE To subscribe on iOS, go to the iTunes page and subscribe to Proof to Product. On Android, you can listen using your favorite podcast app.  WRITE A REVIEW Writing a review on iTunes will help other product based business owners find Proof to Product as they are working to up level, scale, and build profitable and sustainable companies. FOLLOW PROOF TO PRODUCT Follow Proof to Product on Instagram for the latest updates. JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST If you'd like to receive more information about our upcoming episodes of Proof to Product including show notes and information about our guests, head over to www.prooftoproduct.com and sign up for our email list.   SHARE Be sure to share Proof to Product with all of the product based business owners that you know!    ABOUT PROOF TO PRODUCT: Proof to Product is hosted by Katie Hunt. Since 2011, Proof to Product has worked with thousands of product based businesses to help them up level, scale, and build profitable sustainable companies. You can find our show notes and additional resources at ProofToProduct.com. If you like what you heard today, please head over to Apple Podcast to leave a five star review and subscribe. Thanks so much for listening. We'll be back next week with a new episode!