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Pat Flynn
Pat Flynn from The Smart Passive Income Blog reveals all of his online business and blogging strategies, income sources and killer marketing tips and tricks so you can be ahead of the curve with your online business or blog. Discover how you can create multiple passive income streams that work for you so that you can have the time and freedom to do what you love, whether it's traveling the world, or just living comfortably at home. Since 2008, he's been supporting his family with his many online businesses, and he's been openly sharing his wins, his losses, and all the lessons in between with the community of energetic but humble entrepreneurs who follow him. Self-proclaimed "crash test dummy of online business", you'll learn about building authority online, email marketing, building a team and outsourcing, content marketing, podcasting, search engine optimization, niche sites, social media strategies, how to get more traffic, creating online courses, affiliate marketing, and productivity tips so that you create something amazing without burning yourself out. It's a mix of interviews, special co-hosts and solo shows from Pat you're not going to want to miss. Hit subscribe, and get ready to change your life.
SPI 740: Forty-One
#740 As I turn forty-one and with the new year approaching, I want to look back at 2023 and share the strategies that have had the biggest impact on my businesses. We got a lot of things right these past twelve months, so tune in to learn more! The energy at SPI is unparalleled right now because of the positive feedback we've been getting for the All Access Pass, our community-powered educational experience. This was an incredible year for Deep Pocket Monster as well. I took my foray into the Pokémon space to the next level with Card Party, a three-day live event unlike anything else in this niche. I'm also stepping outside my comfort zone with my first traditionally published book, Lean Learning. Join me for updates on this and everything from the SwitchPod to how I'm getting back in shape! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session740.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
30:4608/12/2023
SPI 739: Rapid Growth and Instagram Secrets with Zach Benson
#739 Paying for ads is a fine way to get more followers on Instagram. It's what Meta wants you to do. But what are some of the more organic ways to boost your growth? In today's episode, I'm chatting with Zach Benson to find out! Zach is the founder of Assistagram, an agency that helps brands build massive audiences on Instagram. He has worked with everybody from Shaquille O'Neal to my friend and frequent guest on the show, John Lee Dumas. This is a fascinating session and a deep dive into marketing tactics that are rarely talked about. Zach shares his tips for collaborating with and even buying Instagram accounts in your niche, using hashtags the right way, the types of posts to focus on, transitioning your followers into customers, and more. The old tricks don't work anymore, so listen to learn about the strategies that do! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session739.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
38:5006/12/2023
SPI 738: The Niche Goal
#738 The demographics we use to define our target audiences aren't actually helping us. Think about it—is it really the case that the people you want to attract share the same age, gender, or location? Or is it that they all share the same niche goal? Having one specific problem to help your followers with is essential for brand recognition and successful business growth online! Deep Pocket Monster, my Pokemon-focused channel, is a prime example of this. My 700K subscribers are people from all backgrounds, but their goal in this space is the same. Doubling down on it made a massive difference! So, what is the one thing that resonates with your niche audience? This is the key to starting a business and quitting your traditional job, which is our goal for you at SPI with everything from our content to our new EIR program! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session738.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
17:3201/12/2023
SPI 737: Win with Your Unfair Advantage with Dan Shapiro, Founder of Glowforge
#737 What is an advantage you have that almost feels like cheating? Is there something you can do that others can't or won't, and how do you leverage it to uplevel your brand? All of us can find our edge if we know where to look. Today's incredible guest, Dan Shapiro, is here to show us the way! As co-founder of the iconic 3D printer company Glowforge, Dan has empowered tens of thousands of people to start and run physical product businesses. He is the creator of Robot Turtles, a board game designed to teach kids the fundamentals of programming, and the author of Hot Seat, a guidebook for startup CEOs. To bring his ideas to life, Dan has also run some of the largest crowdfunding campaigns ever! Why do some businesses work while others fail? How do you create products that resonate with people and build something special? Listen in to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session737.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
43:4929/11/2023
SPI 736: How to Build Your Vision with Jason Feifer
#736 What's the point of building a business if you can't maintain it? If you want to follow your vision and have free time to sustain and enjoy it, you have to understand the vertical thinking successful entrepreneurs instinctively use. Jason Feifer, editor-in-chief of Entrepreneur magazine, is joining me today to help you create projects that stack and work together to supercharge your growth! You're hearing from another one of SPI Pro's Experts in Residence today. We're introducing the EIR program to serve our members with next-level knowledge and support, so tune in to get a sneak preview of what's coming to our incredible community! In his job, Jason has access to world-class entrepreneurs and is here to share the lessons he's learned so far. He and I talk about getting clarity on your mission and bringing it to life in a sustainable way using proven strategies and mindsets! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session736.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
30:1224/11/2023
SPI 735: How a Small Niche Makes a Big Profit with Wojciech Wegrzynski
#735 Many of us believe we need to reach millions of people to make a living online. We then fall into the trap of going as broad as possible with our content. But what if a small targeted audience is actually a major asset? In this episode, we hear all about Wojciech Wegrzynski's incredible journey. His podcast, the Fire Science Show, averages just five hundred downloads per episode. But here's the thing—Wojciech's revenue from sponsors is already surpassing his engineering job income! Listen in because this episode brings together some of the most important topics we always discuss here on the show. We cover the power of niching down and podcasting, overcoming fear and procrastination, and building authority in your space. Wojciech combines these elements in a big way and adds his fire safety expertise to the mix to make a massive difference in his industry! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session735.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
37:0622/11/2023
SPI 734: Being a 10x Entrepreneur and Parent with Terry Rice—SPI Pro Expert In Residence
#734 What is your personal philosophy? What are the thoughts that guide your actions? Understanding what drives you is the key to staying motivated and overcoming procrastination. This is how you 10x your business. Not only that, this is how you supercharge your personal life as well! Tune in today because SPI Pro's new Expert In Residence, Terry Rice, is joining me to help us set up the routines for success at work and at home! You'll hear all about the EIR program, the newest innovation we're introducing to serve our Pro members with next-level knowledge and support. So, how do you live your legacy? What are the business strategies that are also effective in parenting? How do you 10x your personal relationships and prioritize family as an entrepreneur? Join Terry and me for this special Friday session to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session734.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
30:3617/11/2023
SPI 733: Modern-Day Personal Branding Magic with Christine Gritmon
#733 "Who am I to stand out? Who am I to show off to other people?" That's the impostor syndrome in many of us talking. Falling for it and then underselling ourselves feels safe because we don't see the value in our skillset. But how do we discover our potential and build a confident personal brand around it? Christine Gritmon is joining me today to help you do just that. In this episode, she shares her expert knowledge to supercharge your online presence and take your branding game to the next level. We talk about uncovering the unique value you bring to the table, naming your business, choosing the best social platform for growth, building a reputation in your niche, collaboration and community, and more. This session will help you create a genuine brand to define and move you toward your goals. Listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session733.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
38:0515/11/2023
SPI 732: Don't Go It Alone
#732 The days of writing blog posts, getting easy traffic from Google, and monetizing your content with ads or products are gone. So, what's the best way to build an audience today? "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." This African proverb is hugely relevant in our online business landscape because it highlights the incredible power of collaboration. Listen in on this episode to hear all about what I'm doing to partner up with other entrepreneurs and get in front of massive new audiences! This can be the game-changing approach that unlocks the next level for many of us. I let fear and introversion hold me back for too long—don't make the same mistake! This is something I've covered in my Unstuck newsletter as well. If you haven't already, be sure to subscribe for weekly business insights delivered straight to your inbox! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session732.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
15:1210/11/2023
SPI 731: How to Make Money with Email Marketing (By Just Being You) with Liz Wilcox
#731 Bringing relatability and character to your work is the number one way to stand out and succeed online today! But how do you apply the "just be yourself" advice in your business for fantastic results? You're about to witness the full power of sharing valuable knowledge with a heavy dose of personality in today's chat with Liz Wilcox. Not only is she The Fresh Princess of Email Marketing, but her '90s pop culture obsession makes learning from her incredibly entertaining. Liz walks us through the steps of her Staircase framework for transitioning followers to customers. She also shares her twenty-minute newsletter blueprint for writing engaging and effective emails fast. We get into the best lead magnets for attracting new subscribers, the common mistakes to avoid, and, of course, a solid bit of NSYNC nostalgia. Join us for this fun and impactful conversation with Liz! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session731.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
39:4008/11/2023
SPI 730: First to Act
#730 Everything's already been done! That's one of the common excuses we come up with to stop us from starting a business. We tell ourselves all the good ideas are exhausted and that there's nothing new we can do. But is that really true? In this episode, I want to help you shift your mindset around what it takes to build a brand online and help you discover promising niche markets. This doesn't only apply to people with expertise and credentials, either! Being an authority in your space is fantastic, but you can still offer plenty of value online by sharing your journey as a beginner. That's how I approached and grew Deep Pocket Monster to over 700k subscribers! So, how do you plant your flag and decide what you want to be known for? Listen in on this session for my tips and a look at one of the emerging niches I'm keeping an eye on! Snow notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session730.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:2903/11/2023
SPI 729: How to Quit Your Corporate Job for Good with Brian Luebben
#729 Most people never take the leap to pursue the life they've always wanted. Often, it's because they're too afraid to quit their traditional jobs. That's why I've invited Brian Luebben of The Action Academy Podcast on the show to share the blueprint for achieving your version of success. Today, we hear Brian's story and learn about the side hustle that helped him replace his six-figure corporate income while traveling the world full-time. After recording, I had to go back and listen to this conversation again because I didn't want to miss any of the incredible golden nuggets. So make sure you take notes! Brian and I discuss building a financial foundation, creating products that address real needs, the importance of community for learning, the best short-form content strategy, and more. This is a great one, so listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session729.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
44:5501/11/2023
SPI 728: What Will Matter?
#728 For better or worse, your choices today are a glimpse into how your life will turn out. I still remember the months I spent wallowing in self-pity after getting laid off in my mid-twenties, the same thoughts running through my head every day. I felt like a failure, and I felt doomed. What would have happened if I had continued down that path? It's hard to say, but I'm sure I wouldn't be here with you now. In this episode, I want to give you the shot of motivation you need to seize the day and start building your legacy! So, how do you live a life of significance? Join me for this session because I want to read you the inspirational quote I keep on my desk. This is the daily source of inspiration that drives me to push for meaning in my life. Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session728.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:2927/10/2023
SPI 727: An Epic SPI Success Story with Jackie Nourse
#727 I'm always harping on the importance of starting a podcast to grow your brand. And for good reasons! But what would happen if you were to take my advice and the first piece of feedback you receive is a one-star review? Would you give up? That's the exact situation Jackie Nourse, aka Traveling Jackie, faced. Undeterred, she followed her passion and turned it into one of my favorite success stories! At JUMP Adventures, Jackie has built an amazing business around her mission of traveling full-time. Listen in to learn how she pulled it off and how she now brings her community along on her trips! This is an excellent conversation about bringing people together online and offline, building your version of the ideal life, and overcoming challenges. Join us because Jackie shares an inside look at the life-changing experiences she creates and why her audience keeps coming back for more! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session727.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
38:5825/10/2023
SPI 726: Name It.
#726 Much of the knowledge I acquired when I started blogging is still with me. I have my early inspirations, Darren Rowse, Yaro Starak, and Seth Godin, to thank for that! In fact, one of Seth Godin's concepts that I often return to is the power of naming it. But what is it? It can be anything you teach or create. When you label something, you make it real. The messy middle, the part of the entrepreneurial journey between early excitement for an idea and when you finally reach your goals, comes to mind. Eric Partaker's 3 Alarms strategy, discussed in Wednesday's episode, is another example. So, how do you coin relevant terms in your business? Join this session to hear me brainstorm new ideas and come up with Fake Flynn-ing. Tune in to find out what that's all about and how to start naming things for your audience! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session726.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10:3320/10/2023
SPI 725: The #1 Way to Scale Up Your Business with Eric Partaker
#725 The seven words that hold you back more than any other are "It is faster to do it myself." This kind of short-term thinking leads to burnout and stunts your business growth. But what is the most efficient way to scale your brand long-term? In this episode, returning guest Eric Partaker shares the blueprint for transitioning from scrappy founder to leadership master. This is priceless knowledge based on Eric's work coaching Fortune 50 CEOs, architecting Skype's success, and running several companies. You're not going to want to miss this chat! Eric helps you lay the foundation for sustainable business growth and explains why entrepreneurship cannot be separated from personal development. We discuss intentionality, the EAR framework for leadership, giving praise, and handling mistakes. For more, get a free copy of Eric's incredible book, The 3 Alarms, and his powerful tools and resources at SmartPassiveIncome.com/businessbundle! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session725.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
36:3218/10/2023
SPI 724: The Bigger You Get... The Harder You Question
#724 Finding success as a creator isn't all great. In fact, popularity can actually move you away from the special sauce that made your content stand out in the first place. You see, the moment you have something to lose, you begin to overthink every decision. Fear then starts to short-circuit the creative exploration that is part of the fun of building an online brand! My friend Matt Wolfe is dealing with this right now. He's doing fantastic work on YouTube, where his AI news channel pulls massive numbers. In this episode, I share the advice I gave him to help him stay motivated and keep the creative spark alive. So, listen in on today's session to learn how to find the fun in your work and avoid one of the major pitfalls of success! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session724.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:3813/10/2023
SPI 723: Behind the Scenes with Entrepreneur and Podcaster Shawn Stevenson
#723 What are the kinds of things you tell yourself? In business, health, and relationships, our thoughts are what drive us to succeed or fail. The way we see the world truly affects the chemistry of our bodies. So, what are the habits that build effective cognitive patterns? In this episode, Shawn Stevenson shares the research-based information you need to tackle entrepreneurship the healthy way. He is the best-selling author of Sleep Smarter and Eat Smarter and host of The Model Health Show. His incredible work has changed my life, and I can't wait for you to hear our powerful conversation! We discuss everything from getting great sleep and the importance of family meals to supercharging your mindset for next-level business results. Listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session723.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
48:2711/10/2023
SPI 722: Just... Why.
#722 This one question is the creativity hack we've been trained out of as adults. It's the key to uncovering amazing knowledge and stories. Kids ask it all the time—"Why?" One of my top tips for creators, interviewers, and entrepreneurs is to trust the process of curiosity. This is how I approach everything I do. It's how I get guests on the podcast to open up and share valuable information. It's how I come up with content and discover fresh business opportunities. In this episode, I want to challenge you to tap into your inner child and look at your work through the lens of curiosity. I challenge you to ask why. So listen in for more on how I apply this technique to everything from podcasting to parenting. This is a mindset game-changer because it affects how you see the world and introduces you to an abundance of new possibilities in life and business! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session722.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10:2306/10/2023
SPI 721: How to Build a Brand the Smart Way with Susie from Hey Grill, Hey
#721 Finding an underserved audience and providing valuable free content is one of the quickest ways to build a massive brand online. But how do you turn your followers into paying customers? This is a challenging transition for many of us when we start charging for our work. My guest, Susie Bulloch of Hey Grill, Hey, has done an amazing job creating irresistible paid products to complement the free information that has defined her business. She runs the highest-trafficked barbecue and grilling recipe website, and today, we find out all about her journey and mission! Susie and I discuss everything from choosing a niche to monetizing your reach through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. We also talk about creating digital and physical products to serve your audience's unique needs and generate reliable monthly income. There's much to learn from Susie's growth, so listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session721.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
40:1904/10/2023
SPI 720: I Swore I Wasn’t Going to Do It, but Then I Did.
#720 I didn't want to, but people I trust made me do something I otherwise would have never done. I won't keep you guessing—this is all about watching an anime. Specifically, One Piece. The show has over one thousand episodes! That's insane, but I was assured the story would be worth it. These are the kinds of things we're willing to take a chance on when we trust someone. So, what do I get out of this experience? As I've often said on the show, storytelling is vital for business success. In fact, it's the skill that will help you build the type of trust that gets people to spend their time and money with you. But building influence over people also comes with responsibilities. Today's session is all about having trust and stories as the foundation of your relationship with your audience. Tune in to learn more! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session720.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:1029/09/2023
SPI 719: Automating Some of Life to Make the Other Parts Even Better with Leo Babauta
#719 Today's guest is one of the first bloggers I followed when I started my online business journey. His content has been absolutely instrumental for me. Now, he's diving into podcasting and has created one of the few shows I subscribe to! Leo Babauta of Zen Habits is here to tell us why starting a podcast in 2023 is still a great idea. He also shares the mindset that has enabled him to stand out in a new medium right from the beginning. This is an inspiring conversation about minimalism and mindfulness in content creation! Leo and I tackle uncertainty and stress head-on and share tools and strategies to keep you moving toward your goals. Fair warning—Some tactics discussed today involve snakes, but we also provide nonvenomous solutions! If your work is meaningful, you're guaranteed to encounter resistance. So listen in to learn how to overcome the obstacles around your purpose and mission! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session719.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
38:2327/09/2023
SPI 718: The Up-and-Comers
#718 The strategy I share today will help you at any level, no matter what niche you're in. There's another bonus—this tactic also makes the world a better place. So what is it? Tune in because we explore the benefits of forming relationships with the up-and-comers in your space. I've been doing this with Deep Pocket Monster, my Pokémon YouTube channel, and the results have been amazing! Some of the smaller creators I've helped get a leg up are now on an incredible trajectory. While it might seem like this creates more competition for me, the truth is that these are now supportive friendships that lead to more growth for everybody. The key word here is abundance. Creating a brand is not a zero-sum game where someone else's success comes at your expense. So, who are the up-and-comers in your niche and how do you create mutually beneficial relationships with them? Listen in on today's episode to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session718.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
07:5322/09/2023
SPI 717: Making Money in an Economy that Hates You with Chris Guillebeau
#717 You can't know which of your ideas will take off before you try some of them. That's why taking asymmetrical risks, where the potential upside is much greater than your investment, is essential to get ahead today. But how do you apply this on your path to success, and what are the outdated rules you should break along the way? In this episode, Chris Guillebeau of The Art of Non-Conformity shares an inside look at his new book, Gonzo Capitalism: How to Make Money in An Economy That Hates You. I'm excited to have him back on the show because his experience in the online space is incredible! So, how do you succeed even when the odds are stacked against you? We cover a lot of ground in this session to answer that. Chris and I discuss building hybrid communities that function online and offline, monetizing your skill set, creating in the age of AI, event planning, and more. Listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session717.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
38:1220/09/2023
SPI 716: The Moment I Knew Podcasting Was Going to Change My Life
#716 I bought the equipment to start a podcast in 2008—but I was scared. In fact, putting my voice out there was so frightening that I didn't publish anything until 2010. But it wasn't long before I realized this show would become something special. Today, I want to take you back to that life-changing moment. Tune in because this session highlights why now is still a great time to create a new show around your brand! And with YouTube becoming a big player in the space, podcast discovery is about to change forever! That's why we added a video module to the upcoming Power-Up Podcasting 3.0. This newly overhauled version of our flagship course is the step-by-step solution you need to launch a successful show that gets found and grows your business! So check out SPI's All-Access Pass to unlock our community-powered course library! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session716.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:4515/09/2023
SPI 715: Behind the Scenes of Landing a TEDx Talk with Julie DeLucca-Collins
#715 Confidence is the action you take in the face of fear and uncertainty. If you're building a business, playing it safe can only get you so far. Instead, you need to build up the courage to swing for the fences! In this episode, Julie DeLucca-Collins of Go Confidently Coaching shares her expertise to help you find and achieve your version of success. She and I will walk you through the mindset and behaviors to help you check off your biggest goals! Julie also shares news of her upcoming TEDx talk. She gives us an inside look at the extensive process of applying, auditioning, and preparing for this event. So, what does it take to land a TEDx talk? How do you use your core values to move toward your goals? Why should you embrace failure as a necessary step? We discuss all this in today's perspective-shifting chat with Julie. Listen in for a serious dose of inspiration! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session715.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
41:2413/09/2023
SPI 714: My High-Risk Scare (And What I’m Doing about It)
#714 I'm very disappointed in myself. You see, these last few years, I've achieved a lot with SPI and Deep Pocket Monster, my Pokémon YouTube channel. But at what cost? Here's the thing—I've been neglecting my health for too long. Eating well and exercising have slipped through the cracks, and I've just received some scary test results to reflect that. This is a different kind of episode, but listen in because my personal update might be the wake-up call you need to get your priorities in order. I'll share the results from my DEXA scan and discuss the steps I've taken to start regaining my health and vitality. I already feel better than I have in a long, long time! So, join me for today's session about health and the entrepreneurial journey to learn more. If we don't care for ourselves, we can't serve others. Listen in and take action! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session714.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
14:1008/09/2023
SPI 713: The Most Inspirational Business Story Ever with Deanna Cooper Gillingham
#713 Hustle culture has tricked many of us into sacrificing our personal lives for financial success. But does building a brand have to be difficult? Instead, what would our journey look like if it were easy? Today's conversation with Deanna Cooper Gillingham will blow your mind! She helps case managers in the healthcare industry grow in their profession through education and training. Her trajectory actually mirrors my own Green Exam Academy story. In fact, the book she self-published to help people in her niche pass an exam has now generated over a million dollars in profit! In this episode, we look at how Deanna pulled it off! She started from scratch with no audience and is now playing in the big leagues while traveling the world full-time. We dissect the essential systems that support her lifestyle, discuss mentorship, events, and public speaking, and get a glimpse at her community of superfans. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session713.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
39:5606/09/2023
SPI 712: The Creator Economy Middle-Class—Roundtable with Jason Feifer, Terry Rice, and Matt Gartland
#712 Many of the highest performers, the people we often try to emulate, are actually miserable. You see, there are trade-offs in chasing extraordinary success that may not appeal to us once we understand what they are. So where's the sweet spot? How do we build a business we're proud of without sacrificing everything else in the process? Here's the thing—most people find incredible fulfillment in operating at a level of mastery in a small niche. This creator economy middle class is the topic of today's fantastic discussion between Terry Rice, Jason Feifer, Matt Gartland, and me. In this roundtable session, we help you define your version of success and discover the mindset to help you achieve it. We also arm you with the most impactful tools we're using right now and share a reading list to inspire you and shift your perspective. Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session712.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
53:0601/09/2023
SPI 711: A Hidden Revenue Source for People who Have Clients with Chase Buckner
#711 Running a service-based business is something we don't often talk about here. Our focus is usually on passive income streams that can scale and create more free time for us. But is there a way to apply our mindset to services and unlock a hidden revenue source? You bet, and that's exactly what we talk about in today's game-changing episode! My expert guest, Chase Buckner, will absolutely blow your mind! He is the Director of Marketing at HighLevel, a suite of incredibly powerful white-label software tools you can pick and choose from and resell to your clients as a subscription. With no coding required, you can tap into the profitable SaaS model and create passive recurring revenue! Chase and I dive into specific use cases to inspire you because this can be the strategy that finally helps you stop trading time for money. Go to SmartPassiveIncome.com/highlevel to get started with a 30-day trial! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session711.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
41:0830/08/2023
SPI 710: Jazzed
#710 Hot take—the true mark of creators with a serve-first mindset is the excitement they feel when someone they've helped gets a win! If we're not jazzed when somebody in our community hits a milestone, what are we working toward? Are we even in it for the right reasons? Celebrating wins is a huge part of SPI Pro, and we often have our incredible members showcase their expertise by hosting Teaching Friday episodes of this podcast. For instance, our recent sessions with Gillian Tietz and Benjamin Yeh uncover incredibly effective audience growth and networking tactics. Tune in if you haven't already! So how are you celebrating your audience? Listen in on this episode for more about how and where to start. Don't miss out because this is one of the great joys of being a creator! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session710.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:2925/08/2023
SPI 709: What Most People Aren’t Doing That You Should
#709 The power of in-person events is like nothing else we can offer an audience. So why do we often let fear and doubt stop us from bringing our people together? Here's the easy way to overcome uncertainty—if you've never hosted anything, just start small! In this episode, I'm excited to have Dan Franks share his expertise and help us foster real-life connections through incredible events at any point in our journey. He is the co-founder of Podcast Movement, the world's largest conference for podcasters. Dan and I have also been working side-by-side on Card Party, my first event in the Pokémon space! So how do you host your first meetup and avoid beginner mistakes that could cost you a lot of money? We cover that in today's session and give you a behind-the-scenes look at Card Party and Podcast Movement for an extra dose of inspiration. Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session709.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
47:0023/08/2023
SPI 708: Do You Know What’s Happening?
#708 I'm challenging you with a simple but very important question—do you know what's happening? When people are on your landing page or going through your sales process, do you understand why you're getting fewer conversions than expected? Are you offering an optimal experience, or are you still winging it? For many years, I didn't know what was happening. Sure, SPI was growing, but where our sales were coming from exactly was a mystery. That's all changing as the team and I now obsess over every aspect of our marketing. So, in this episode, I share some valuable tactics to help you optimize your customer experience and make more sales! Here's the thing. If we never look behind the scenes, we can't uncover the small elements that add up to make all the difference in our success. So, do you know what's happening? Join me for today's session to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session708.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10:5918/08/2023
SPI 707: How to Skip the Build Phase and Buy an Existing Website with Jared Bauman
#707 Starting a niche website is one of the best ways to generate income online. That said, it can often take months or years to get the results you want. But what if you could skip that part and jump in when your brand is already established and bringing in profit? That's the strategy I explore in today's incredible chat with Jared Bauman of 201 Creative and Weekend Growth. Jared is an expert at buying and flipping websites, and the insights he shares here make this tactic accessible to everyone and at every level. We discuss the step-by-step process Jared used to grow a website from $2k to $10k per month in profit. This is a fantastic case study because we explore everything from the initial research and negotiation phase to then supercharging the site with powerful monetization tools. Don't miss out, listen in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session707.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
40:1116/08/2023
SPI 706: Who Wants Recognition?
#706 I'm calling you out—I bet you're so focused on your own journey that you haven't bothered to notice the small players in your niche doing amazing things. But what would happen if you stepped up to give them the recognition they deserve? How would fostering these relationships help everyone grow? While others chase inaccessible industry leaders, joining forces with lesser-known creators in your space can propel you to the top. In this episode, I share my experience using this strategy for my recent Pokémon live event. You see, smaller YouTubers drove more excitement for Card Party than anyone else! In entrepreneurship, Lewis Howes and John Lee Dumas come to mind as highly successful people I was happy to support from the get-go. That has led to incredible friendships I know I can always count on. So how do you form bonds like these? Listen in on today's session to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session706.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
11:0311/08/2023
SPI 705: The Keys to Building a 6-Figure Niche Business in 2023-2024
#705 Too often, creators focus on profit instead of the value they provide. So what is the first step toward building a successful business? It's making sure your products actually work and proving it! My returning guest, Mark Wills, is a perfect example of applying a serve-first mindset to entrepreneurship. He and his business partner Roman run Loan Signing System, the largest notary coaching business in the US. In episode 303, we heard how they used strategies from my book Will It Fly to build their incredible six-figure business. Mark's enthusiasm is just as infectious in today's high-energy chat. We talk about why community and authenticity are vital in the age of AI, how to run a hands-on business that can scale, the importance of social proof and gathering effective testimonials, the 5+1 email marketing strategy, and more. So how do you achieve massive success without compromising your desire to help others? Tune in to find out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session705.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
40:4909/08/2023
SPI 704: Go Live (Yes, You)
#704 Live streaming is one of the best ways to connect with your audience. It's also probably the fastest route to growing as a communicator. So how do you step out of your comfort zone and start doing it? Wednesday's episode with Emily D. Baker reminded me just how powerful this tool can be. You might also remember that I went live on YouTube every day for a whole year during the pandemic. I'm so grateful I committed to that because the lessons learned have influenced everything I've done since. In this episode, I want to share that knowledge to help you get into streaming with the right mindset and tools to succeed. I talk about how to prepare in advance so you always have something to say, the common mistakes to avoid, engaging a live audience, building a story bank, and more. Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session704.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
16:5404/08/2023
SPI 703: How to Legally (and Genuinely) Use Other People's Content in Your Own
#703 Claiming fair use is not a magic wand you can wave to stop people from suing you. In fact, even if you're in the right, you can still get dragged into legal procedures that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. So, how do you use copyrighted material in your content without getting in trouble? That's what we cover in this chat with the internet's favorite legal analyst, Emily D. Baker. Tune in because she helps us understand the fair use system and work within it to put ourselves in the safest position when using other people's videos, photos, music, and more. We also dive into monetizing content you don't own and what to do when someone copies your original work. If you've listened in on my previous talk with Emily in episode 621, you know she puts a fun twist on topics that can often be dry or overwhelming. So join us for this awesome educational opportunity! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session703.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
53:1702/08/2023
SPI 702: You NEED a “Label Reader” (Trust Me)
#702 Being a creator of any kind can be frustrating. We work hard on something, put it out there, and then… radio silence. The project we've poured our time and money into falls flat, and we never find out why. That's because we can't read the label when we're inside the bottle! This is something I say all the time because it's such an essential part of success. So how do you get eyeballs on your content early and collect information to make it better? In this episode, I share a sneak peek at the feedback-powered system I use on my Pokémon YouTube channel, Deep Pocket Monster, to create videos that get millions of views. I also talk about the features we've built into SPI Pro to help our members get similar results. Finding "label readers" for an outside perspective can grow your brand like nothing else. So listen in to learn how to get started! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session702.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
10:1028/07/2023
SPI 701: How to Profit by Building Software (With NO Coding Experience) with Spencer Haws
#701 Entrepreneurs without programming knowledge tend to dismiss software-based businesses as too complex. Courses and other digital products are often seen as more accessible. But here's the thing—creating digital tools to serve your audience is easier than you think! Spencer Haws, today's returning guest, hasn't been on the show since episode 066. That was over ten years ago! He still runs an incredible blog at NichePursuits.com and has built and sold several thriving software businesses with no coding experience! In this episode, Spencer brings us up to date on his journey. We hear about his niche sites and get an inside look at his latest venture, Link Whisper—a WordPress plugin that makes internal linking faster and more effective. This fascinating chat covers everything from interviewing potential customers for successful product creation to selling a business for massive profit! Tune in and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session701.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
33:2726/07/2023
SPI 700: 700 Episodes Later...
#700 Wow, we're celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Smart Passive Income Podcast! That's absolutely ridonkulous! Whether this is the first episode you're tuning in for or the 700th, I appreciate you for being here! So what have I learned working on the show for so long? In this session, I share my most important mindset shift for fast growth. You see, a book I'm reading nowadays, 10x Is Easier Than 2x, has reminded me of a powerful story from my architecture days. This perfectly illustrates the path to quick gains I've applied to every aspect of my business and life. Skyrocketing your skill level and growing your business is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and focusing on the things that can move the needle for you in a big way. So listen in on this episode to learn more. And again, thank you for sticking with us for so many years! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session700.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
12:4221/07/2023
SPI 699: Real Business Talk, Tweet by Tweet with Matt Giovanisci
#699 When your business is optimized, you hit a button, and money happens. That said, many entrepreneurs make mistakes that stop them from reaching that level. I'm no different, and it really hurt when today's guest made me realize that. Matt Giovanisci is a classic example of finding riches in the niches with his work at Swim University and Money Lab. In this episode, he returns to the show for a powerful deep dive into the entrepreneurial mindset. You see, the knowledge he shares on Twitter really hit home with me. I had to invite him on the show to go tweet by tweet with us and expand on the vital concepts that can make or break our businesses. This is a wide-ranging discussion about filtering and prioritizing your ideas, building an ATM-like email list, simplifying your marketing, short-form versus long-form content, and even lip-syncing! Today's session will be a game-changer for many listeners, so don't miss out! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session699.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
38:1719/07/2023
SPI 698: Two Weeks Later, and I'm Done.
#698 Card Party, my three-day live event in the Pokémon space, is over. With half a million dollars at stake, it's hard to believe the fear I felt is now behind me. I'm exhausted, but I couldn't be happier with how it all turned out! If you've been following my Deep Pocket Monster journey, you know how much I value the fantastic community we've built on YouTube. In previous episodes, I talked all about how we designed Card Party as a celebration of that. I'm now happy to share the lessons learned from our massive success! The response from attendees, creators, sponsors, and vendors, has been incredible. In fact, we've already sold hundreds of tickets for next year's event! So listen in to hear all about how we created an amazing experience and delivered unforgettable moments with our first edition of Card Party! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session698.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
18:2914/07/2023
SPI 697: How to Build a Thriving Community Online with Heather Angel
#697 The transformational power of online communities is no joke. Still, many entrepreneurs overcomplicate things and drag their feet on launching a membership. What, then, is the easiest way to get started right now? Today's special guest, Heather Lynn Angel, is someone whose trajectory I highly encourage you to replicate. You see, the value she has provided as a member of our SPI Pro community is insane. We recognized that and couldn't pass on the opportunity to hire her! Heather and I discuss all that today as we dive deep into building a thriving digital space for your audience. As a community strategist, Heather is a fantastic resource. In this episode, she shares the baseline requirements for successful membership businesses and walks us through every step, from platform choice to next-level member engagement and retention. We cover all the bases to save you from procrastination and get you going ASAP. So listen in and take action! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session697.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
40:0712/07/2023
SPI 696: The Toxicity of “Agree to Disagree”
#696 When you agree to disagree with someone, you're just avoiding the issue. But there's a better and more productive way to handle conflict. At SPI, we disagree and commit. My great friend and business partner, Matt Gartland, taught me this when we started working together. It's been an absolute game-changer ever since! In this episode, I explore the benefits of this powerful mindset and share the methods we use to implement it. That said, this approach felt counterintuitive at first. If you're anything like me, you prefer to avoid endless fighting. Agreeing to disagree is the civilized way to move on, right? But does that ever solve anything? In fact, many of our most popular products wouldn't exist if we didn't commit despite having doubts. Our fantastic Unstuck newsletter is just one example. So listen in on today's session to learn how to use this mindset shift for incredible results! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session696.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
08:5307/07/2023
SPI 695: The Secrets to Working with Anyone with Michael Bungay Stanier
#695 You go through a honeymoon phase with every person in your life. Business partners, co-workers, and clients are no exception. Of course, these connections are critical to your success as an entrepreneur! So what can you do to keep the spark alive in the boardroom and maintain the best possible version of your working relationships? Joining me today is Michael Bungay Stanier, bestselling author of The Coaching Habit. This favorite of mine has massively impacted how we do business at SPI. His new book, How to Work with (Almost) Anyone, uncovers the one essential conversation and five powerful questions to help you master relationship-building. Today, Michael shares why your most successful connections should be safe, vital, and repairable. He and I explore the value of knowing yourself, the signals to break off unhealthy relationships, and screwing up as a way to increase customer loyalty. Tune in because Michael's advice will supercharge your communication skills! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session695.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
39:1705/07/2023
SPI 694: Two Weeks from Today, It'll Be Done
#694 What is the experience you create for your audience? How do you imagine people reacting to your products? What do your ideal reviews and testimonials sound like? Now more than ever, I'm obsessing over these questions because my first in-person event in the Pokémon space is just two weeks away. You see, even with ticket sales going very well and many sponsors supporting us, we might still lose a lot of money on this first event. But that's okay! My main goal with Card Party is to deliver unforgettable moments for our attendees and celebrate this incredible community in a unique way. But, while that's happening behind the scenes, detractors have been popping up online. Tune in to find out how I'm handling these people and why I can't wait for their honest reviews after the event! Enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session694.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
14:4030/06/2023
SPI 693: Inside a Passive Income Print-On-Demand Business with Christina Umerez
#693 How do you build a side hustle that can replace your job in under a year? How do you go from earning $300 to $12,000 per month online? How do you create a profitable passive income business designing, selling, and shipping physical products? Today, we get an inside look at a print-on-demand business that generates incredible revenue. But that's not all. The best part is that this online store runs on just six hours of work per week! Joining me for this chat is the wonderful Christina Umerez. She is an entrepreneur and online business content creator who runs a hugely successful Etsy store. We discuss finding a profitable niche, creating successful designs with AI, positioning and promoting your products for massive sales, the easiest print-on-demand platforms to use, and much more. Today's episode is an in-depth blueprint you can follow to start generating income online immediately. Tune in and take action! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session693.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
39:4828/06/2023
SPI 692: Why So Big?
#692 I always say the riches are in the niches, but that's not what this episode is about. You see, you can still make the mistake of growing too big too fast, even if you're operating in a super niched-down space. Why is that? It's because bigger truly isn't always better. When we start our entrepreneurial journey, many of us want to become as successful as possible and as rich as possible. But here's the thing. A small business can be optimized and refined to help us reach our exact economic goals! So why take on extra work that isn't aligned with your mission? Why go down a path that can distract you from the vision you have for yourself and your family? Listen in on this session because I want to shock you back on track today. So tune in for a perspective shift to help you understand your journey and enjoy success along the way! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session692.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
13:1123/06/2023
SPI 691: How to Grow Your Small Business NOW with Donald Miller
#691 If your business doesn't bring in enough cash, you can't help anyone. So how do you reverse engineer a big economic objective and build a profitable company around it? I'm very excited because returning to the show today is none other than Donald Miller, bestselling author of Building a StoryBrand. His book is one of my favorites of all time and one I'm always recommending here on the podcast. Donald is back to introduce us to his new book, How to Grow Your Small Business, his six-part framework to succeed and reach your financial goals! This interview highlights the vital aspects that determine the growth of your brand. We discuss everything from scaling a business with the right systems in place to the crucial principle of effective marketing. Donald also shares insights into hiring the right people to uplevel your company and mastering leadership. Listen in on this powerful conversation, and enjoy! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session691.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
39:0321/06/2023