All Episodes

In January, I rolled out the Creator Crew, a membership that allows people to support the show directly in exchange for more, ad-free content. 6 months in, how do I think it’s going? Find out about this behind-the-scenes episode. And in Build Something More, we’ll talk about exact numbers, metrics, and what I’m measuring. Show Notes:Failed Patreon ExperimentCreator CoursesBuild Someting ClubSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

You've heard multiple guests on this show talk about the importance of building your email list...but what do you do with that list once you have it? Well, copywriter Matt DeFeo tells us: we need to tell stories. Matt gives lots of actionable advice for how we can improve our email copy and start selling more without annoying our subscribers. Plus, in Build Something More, he tells us how he went from law enforcement to copywriting and the story is incredible.Show Notes:Matthew DefeoMatthew on FacebookMatthew on TwitterSPF and DKIM TutorialHoney CopyMiddle Finger ProjectLemlistApp SumoCopyHackersNeverSpamWritesonicContent RowImpact PlusSEO PressorSwipe-WorthyMilloJustin GoffMarketing ExamplesCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

Continuing a series on finances this year, today we tackle how to handle debt and invest in yourself and your business. Travis Hornsby took himself from being deep in debt to be able to support him and his family through his own business - and he gives us the framework so that we can do the same thing. Plus in Build Something More, we talk all about investing.Show Notes:Travis HornsbyTravis on TwitterTotal Money MakeoverStudent Loan Planner PodcastCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

Podcasting can be like your own personal stage. If you're a speaker,  you have the opportunity to create your own portfolio of work, allowing potential event organizers and audience members to see what you know and you speak. This can lead to more paid speaking gigs and a following. But that's not the only reason speakers should start a podcast.Show Notes:Should You Start A PodcastCreator CrewPodcast LiftoffSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

The feast and the famine are two staples in running your business, right? It's doesn't have to be! That's the message from Kelsey Kerslake, who went from $200 to $16,000 in her bank account in 3 months! Kelsey shares her story, tips, and what you need to do to grow your business and avoid that feast and famine stress.Show NotesKelsey KerslakeKelsey on InstagramKelsey on FacebookCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

A few months ago we heard from Amber Hinds about the importance of accessibility and how her WordPress plugin can help you create more accessible content. She also said that you need a human being to catch most accessibility issues - that's where Bet Hannon comes in. Bet tells us all about what to look for when auditing your website, and how to execute a sampling audit. We also talk about a TON of tools. In Build Something More, listeners get a pre-and post-show. The pre-show is all about beer. The post-show is about database queries.Show Notes: Bet HannonBet Hannon on TwitterBet Hannon on LinkedinBet Hannon BlogWordPress.tvLinkedin LearningDequeWave.WebAimAxe LighthouseMaking Your Website Accessible with Amber HindsCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

Big news in the WordPress space today: GiveWP, makers of the extremely popular WordPress donation plugin has been acquired by Liquid Web. I got to interview the founders and co-authors, Matt Cromwell and Devin Walker. We cover questions like how the acquisition came about, what this means for current customers and nonprofits, plans for the future, and even some sage advice regarding the acquisition process.GiveWPGive's AnnouncementEpisode 54: The GiveWP TeamBetter Audience Engagement for Your Content with Taylor Waldon

If you've ever worked for a bigger company, you know that it's easy to get bogged down by software and other restrictions in the name of security. Heck, I was once told I couldn't work off-site because of it, and we had a VPN! Well, Jason Meller was sick of that and he suspected others were too, so he started Kolide. We talk all about what inspired him to take the leap and start a company, how he and his team built the software and the honest security manifesto! In Build Something More, we talk about cybersecurity and fear-mongering.Show Notes:Jason MellerJason Meller on TwitterKolide on TwitterHonest SecurityCompany of OneHerokuBaby Clothes BlogCreator CrewSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander | The Events Calendar

Promoting your book can be a tough road - I know because I'm currently on it. On top of establishing trust, you need to demonstrate that you're worth investing in. Plus, unlike online courses, it can be tough to build and keep an audience if people are just buying your book off Amazon. Luckily, a podcast can help. We'll get into all of that in this episode. Plus, in Build Something More I'll tell you all about my experience with both self-publishing and going through an actual publisher.Show NotesShould You Start a Podcast?Why Course Creators Should Start a PodcastHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Pricing is one of the biggest issues that freelancers and small business owners face. The worry that pricing too high will lose sales tends to outweigh the fact that pricing too low is actually worse for your business. Well, Stephen King is here to tell us why the latter will sink you - not the former. And in Build Something More, we'll talk about how to be prepared for an economic recession - whether it's this one or the next.Show Notes:Stephen KingStephen King on TwitterStephen King on FacebookStephen King on LinkedinWhy Your Business NEEDS Financial Planning to Succeed with Kathy SvetinaProfit First BookValue Pricing by Ron BakerCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Apple has officially announced Apple Podcast Subscriptions, a way for podcasters to offer paid podcasts directly through the Podcasts app. We’ll cover all the fine details (how it works, pricing, and some of the finer details) and they I’ll give my thoughts, and we’ll do some price comparisons. Show NotesThe YouTube VideoApple Press ReleaseMacstories CoverageThe Fine Print, Six ColorsThe Future of Apple Podcasts, Nathan GathrightMemberful PricingCastosApple Podcast Directory IssuesCreator Crew

When just starting your business, it feels like the only financial question you're asking is, "How can I make enough money to stay afloat?" And while that is a SUPER important question, it's not the only question. In fact, today's guest, Kathy Svetina, gives us several questions we should ask ourselves to better answer the question, "How can I make enough money?" Her financial security framework is one every business owner, from freelancer to agency should think about. Plus, in Build Something More, we dive into tax planning, charts, and financial planning!Show Notes:Kathy SvetinaKathy Svetina on LinkedinJennifer Bourne EpisodeRian Kinney and TrademarksSpotlight ReportingFathomCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

One of the most important things a course creator needs to do to sell courses is establish trust. Indeed you've probably heard that a customer needs to know, like, and trust you. Well, there's no better way to get someone to do all three of those than by starting a podcast. We'll discuss that and other benefits to starting a podcast, whether you've already launched, or are planning to launch, a course. Plus in Build Something More, I tell you about how this podcast started, and why I pivoted. Show NotesShould You Start a Podcast?Podcast LiftoffJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

When you run a company focused on software for live events, you have no choice but to pivot when live events cease basically overnight. Hazel and Zach tell their fantastic story of how they were able to pivot a team of 50 people to focus their live events software on virtual events (spoiler alert: it's not easy). In Build Something More, we talk all about Liquid Web's acquisition of The Events Calendar in late 2020.Show NotesThe Events CalendarThe Events Calendar on TwitterThe Events Calendar on LinkedinThe Events Calendar on FacebookOtter.aiMucow ListCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

I LOVE automation, so when Mang-Git Ng reached out and wanted to talk about what he learned by launching a start-up fully focused on digitizing paper processes, I was hooked. If you've bought a house, done taxes, or any other document-heavy task, you know what a pain it can be. Mang-Git's company aims to solve that problem, and he tells us everything he's learned. In Build Something More, we answer the question, "Are big cities like San Francisco and NYC dead?"Show NotesMang-git NgMang-git on LinkedinCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

One thing the global pandemic taught us is we need to have a great online presence. This is especially true if you need to sell online - and let's face it, we all do now. Well Patrick Garman of Mindsize has the knowledge and experience to help anyone launch and improve their eCommerce store. And he gives us some of his best stuff in today's episode. Plus, Mindsize went through a bit of a rebrand, and we talk all about it in Build Something More.Show NotesPatrick GarmanPatrick on TwitterMindsize on TwitterLindsey Miller and Partnership ProgramsPost StatusLaravel ValetQuery MonitorCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Have you ever wondered why your product or service didn't get much traction on social media even though you post all the time? According to Michelle Knight, it's all about your personal brand (or lack thereof). Maybe you've heard the term before, but what does "personal brand" really mean? Luckily, Michelle has us covered! She'll tell us all about why you need a personal brand and how to craft one. In Build Something More, we talk Star Wars in the pre-show and social media dos/don'ts, traveling, and schooling in the post-show. This has been one of my favorite conversations so far this year!Show NotesMichelle KnightMichelle on InstagramMichelle on FacebookConvertKitVidIQAnswer The PublicKeywords EverywhereGear blog PostCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Starting an eCommerce just a few years ago was a hard task. You needed to set up a website, figure out how to accept payments, manage inventory, figure out shipping and fulfillment, and so much more. Thanks to Amazon and other tools, things have gotten a lot easier. Michael Begg tells us all about how using Fulfillment By Amazon and grow your business. Be sure to check out Build Something More this week - we talk negative review, review scams, and more! Show NotesMichael BeggMichael on LinkedinCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

In my experience, starting out, hiring a Virtual Assistant(VA) can take up more time than you're saving. While this is true for any employee, part of the reason to hire a VA is to make more time in your schedule to focus on your business. So how do you do it right? Matthew Yahes answers this question, plus where to find good people, and how to properly onboard VAs. In Build Something More, we talk about how to let go of those tasks you're holding on to!Show NotesMatthew YahesLoomAppSumo.comThe Mythical Man MonthCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Going on podcasts can be a great opportunity for small business owners. You're getting in front of a new audience to tell your story and show your expertise. But did you know there's a whole other avenue you can explore? Kristin Molenaar does, and she tell us all about it! Plus, in Build Something More, she walks us through forming your podcast pitch.Show NotesKristin MolenaarKristin on LinkedInCreator CrewSponsored by: Mindsize | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

There are a lot of aspects to consider when creating a membership site. Aside from the tech stack, you need to determine what you're going to offer and why it's compelling. In some cases, like a monthly subscription box or access to education resources, the offer is clear. But what about for content creators? Well, I just rolled out my membership and here's everything I put into it. Plus, in Build Something More, I tell you how I evaluated membership plugins, and what further benefits can look like. Show NotesSign Up for Creator CrewMy Failed Patreon ExperimentRestrict Content ProCastosConvertKitWhy You Shouldn't Use Tags to Segment Your ListUncanny AutomatorbbPressMemberfulSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Back in 2017, I tried launching a Patreon for this very show, after hitting 50,000 downloads in 9 months. It was an epic failure! As a relaunch memberships for this site 4 years later, I reflect on the Patreon: how I overpromised, how I underdelivered, and what lessons I carried into my new membership, Creator Crew. Show Notes50K Downloads & More Coming to How I Built ItI’m Doubling Down on PatreonPatreonCreator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

Accessibility is an important of often overlooked aspect of web development. While some view it as an added expense, many don't even know they're doing anything wrong. Well today's guest, Amber Hinds, aims to change that by making accessibility less daunting through her agency and their new plugin, Accessibility Checker. Show NotesNOTE: Around 4:30, Amber said Section 508 of the Telecommunications Act. She has relayed to me it should have been Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.Equalize Digital | amber@equalizedigital.comAccessibility CheckerWCAGWAVEHotjara11yrules podcastAccessibility Resources from HTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

The global pandemic has forced a lot of businesses to change their processes and practices. One major drawback of not being able to meet in person is when we pitch new clients or customers, it has to be done digitally. That is a big change from being in the same room as you and your potential clients. Luckily Alex Price, owner of the 93digital WordPress agency, has some great tips for us. Show NotesAlex Price | TwitterEmail: alex@93ditigal.co.uk93digitalGet Rich in the Deep EndPositioningSara Dunn and Niching DownPliim ProSimple Streaming KitJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | TextExpander

We've heard about flipping houses, but what about flipping blogs? Chelsea Clarke has built an entire business on just that. She teaches us what to look for when buying a blog, and the steps we need to take in order to sell. Listen in for an interesting and unique way to generate income for your business! Show NotesFree Resource - Profit and Loss TemplateChelsea Clarke | InstagramMediavineJoin the Creator CrewSponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | Hostinger | TextExpander

Jennifer Bourn has been successfully running Profitable Project Plan, her training program for freelancers and small business owners, for several years. But it wasn't something that instantly made her a ton or money, and it's evolved over time. We're getting back to basics here in 2021, so Jennifer and I talk about what you'll learn in Profitable Project Plan, but we'll also talk about how she built it, and how she evolved it to make it the perfect program for anyone who wants to build a better business.Show NotesJennifer Bourn | TwitterProfitable Project PlanContent CampJennifer Bourn and Profitable Project PlanCompany of OneIntroduction to the Block Editor2021: The Year of OpportunitySponsored by: Outgrow | Restrict Content Pro | Hostinger | TextExpander

One of my favorite things to do at the end of each year is plan my Yearly Theme. It’s becoming a bit of a tradition and I’ve even got my wife in on the action this year. I find it’s better to have a guiding set of principles than a number of promises I may or may not1complete. 2020 caused many people to change how they do things, and I was no different. that’s why for 2021, my yearly theme is going to be The Year of Opportunity.Show NotesRead the post on my blogCGP Grey’s Theme VideoTheme System JournalMy YouTube ChannelSponsored by: Restrict Content Pro | Hostinger | TextExpander

It’s that time of year again! I round up my favorite media and tech picks of 2020 - but this year I’m doing it a little differently. Over on Casabona.org, I’ve written blog posts for the past several years, but I’ve never recorded my thoughts. So this year, along with a blog post, I decided to do a podcast episode too - this lets me ramble a little more and add some thoughts on 2021. I hope you enjoy! Show Notes and PicksTech Pick: Elgato Stream DeckHow I Configured my Stream DeckHonorable Mentions: iPad Magic Keyboard, Kindle Oasis, DrumsApp: MilanoteWhat I’m Using Testing Out Milanote for ResearchHonorable Mentions: eCamm Live, iOS 14Thing I Learned: How to hire moreI’ve Been Hiring A Lot Brittney LynnHonorable Mention: marketing messaging, PR outreachBook: The Ride of a Lifetime by Robert IgerMy 2020 Goodreads Reading ChallengeHonorable Mention: Marketing Made Simple, Dooku: Jedi LostTV Show: Ted LassoHonorable Mention: The Mandalorian (again)All the Disney Investor Day AnnouncementsMusic: First to Eleven, Lewis CapaldiMovie: HamiltonWarner Bros. Says All 2021 Films Will Be Streamed Right AwayPodcast: Advisory OpinionsSponsored by: ConvertKit | Hostinger

Well 2020 was unlike any year I’ve lived through, and I’m sure it’s the same for you. When I decided to come up with a theme for Season 9, which started in July, we were a couple of months into the global pandemic. I wanted focus on topics that could help you (and me) grow at a time where we were traveling less, seeing less foot traffic, and had to change in some way to make ends meet. I settled on coming up with good content, and using that content to evolve memberships, and build communities. If you didn’t catch every episode, here are the highlights.Check out all the episodes mentionedPodcast LiftoffSponsored by: ConvertKit | Hostinger

In September 2020, my 4th book published by a publisher (6th overall) came out. It's called HTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart Guide and it's a (very) beginner's guide to learning HTML and CSS. The process was long and at times frustrating. I wanted to go through how I wrote it, from inception to hitting the shelved.Show NotesHTML and CSS: Visual QuickStart GuideMindNodeProcreateSponsored by: ConvertKit | Hostinger