You don’t need to be everywhere, doing everything, to see real results in your business. In fact, trying to do too much might be the very thing holding you back. I know, it feels counterintuitive—more marketing should mean more results, right? But here’s the truth: less really can be more.

Simplifying your marketing doesn’t mean sacrificing your impact. It means focusing on what works, cutting out what doesn’t, and showing up with intention. Let’s talk about how to streamline your marketing efforts without losing momentum.

Step 1: Get Crystal Clear on Your Goals

Before you simplify your marketing, you need to know what you’re working toward. Are you trying to grow your email list? Boost website traffic? Increase sales? The clearer you are on your goals, the easier it will be to figure out which marketing efforts are worth your time—and which ones aren’t.

Ask yourself:

• What’s my #1 priority right now?
• Where do my best leads or clients currently come from?
• Which marketing channels bring the most results?

Once you know your goals, you can start cutting back on the things that don’t serve them.

Step 2: Focus on the Platforms That Matter

You don’t need to be on every social media platform to build a successful business. It’s okay to not be everywhere. Instead, focus on the platforms where your audience actually spends their time.

For example:

• If your ideal clients love scrolling Instagram, focus your energy there.
• If you’re a service-based business, LinkedIn might be where you shine.
• Pinterest is perfect for driving long-term website traffic.

Give yourself permission to let go of platforms that aren’t delivering results. It’s better to show up consistently on one or two platforms than to be spread thin across five.

Step 3: Repurpose Your Content

Work smarter, not harder. Instead of creating new content from scratch every day, start repurposing what you already have.

Here’s how:

• Turn a blog post into an email newsletter.
• Break a long video into short social media clips.
• Use an Instagram caption as the basis for a LinkedIn post.

Your audience isn’t seeing everything you post, so don’t be afraid to reuse your best content. It’s not about doing more—it’s about making the most of what you’ve already done.

Step 4: Automate Where You Can

Automation isn’t about replacing the human touch; it’s about freeing up your time so you can focus on what really matters.

Here are a few ways to simplify your marketing through automation:

• Schedule your social media posts in advance.
• Set up email sequences to nurture new subscribers.
• Use a CRM to manage client communication.

When you automate repetitive tasks, you have more time to engage with your audience in meaningful ways.

Step 5: Simplify Your Messaging

One of the biggest mistakes I see entrepreneurs make is overcomplicating their messaging. Your audience doesn’t need to know everything about your business upfront. They need to know how you can help them.

Simplify your messaging by focusing on these key points:

• Who you are.
• What you offer.
• How it helps your audience.

Keep it clear, concise, and consistent across all your marketing channels. When your message is simple and easy to understand, it resonates more deeply.

Step 6: Batch Your Work

Batching your marketing tasks can save you hours each week. Instead of switching between tasks constantly, dedicate specific blocks of time to focus on one type of work.

For example:

• Write all your Instagram captions for the week in one sitting.
• Record multiple videos in one session.
• Plan your email newsletters for the month in advance.

When you batch your work, you’re not starting from scratch every day. You’ll be amazed at how much more you can accomplish in less time.

Step 7: Track What Works (and Let Go of What Doesn’t)

You don’t need to do everything. You just need to do what works.

Take time to review your analytics and see which marketing efforts are bringing in the most results. Once you know what’s working, double down on those strategies—and let go of the rest.

Here’s what to track:

• Which social media posts get the most engagement?
• Which emails have the highest open rates?
• Which blog posts drive the most traffic?

Simplifying your marketing isn’t about doing less for the sake of it. It’s about doing more of what works and cutting out what doesn’t.

Step 8: Embrace Progress Over Perfection

Here’s your permission slip to stop aiming for perfection. Your marketing doesn’t need to be perfect—it needs to be real. Your audience connects with authenticity far more than polished perfection.

Done is better than perfect. Showing up is better than not showing up at all.

The Big Takeaway: Less Really Can Be More

Simplifying your marketing doesn’t mean sacrificing your results. It means getting intentional about where you show up, how you show up, and what you share.

Focus on what moves the needle. Let go of what doesn’t. And remember—your audience doesn’t need you everywhere. They just need you here, showing up in a way that feels real, intentional, and aligned with your goals.

When you simplify your marketing, you create space to do what you love, serve your audience, and grow your business without the overwhelm. And isn’t that what we’re all after?

Curious about how a simple mailing list can transform your business? Well, you’re in for a treat! Here are the email marketing strategies I used to grow my list from ZERO to over 100,000 incredible humans – just like you. And trust me, it’s not just a story of numbers; it’s about mastering email marketing strategies to build genuine relationships, facing challenges head-on, and embracing every lesson learned.

Beginning Your Email Marketing Journey: Essential Strategies

Oh, those early days! Remember when you first stepped into something brand new, and it felt like wandering through a maze without a map? That was me, stepping into the world of email marketing. Eager to grow my list using effective email marketing strategies, I initially felt like I was fumbling in the dark. Everywhere you turn, people talk about the importance of email marketing strategies in building your list, but it’s like there’s a secret handbook no one’s sharing.

Unlike the world of social media, where everything is out there for you to see and learn from, email marketing felt like a closed door. It was this private, elusive world, and here I was, standing on the outside, full of dreams to build my list but clueless about where to start.

What do you say? What do you write? How often do you reach out? These questions swirled in my head, just as they probably do in yours. Believe me, when I first dipped my toes into these waters, I was right there with you – filled with questions and a heart full of hope, trying to find my way. But, oh, what a journey it’s been!

The Art of Crafting Your Email Marketing Voice

In the early days, I grappled with what to say. Most of my emails were heavily promotional, pushing my digital products and services. It was what I saw most companies doing (think about the hundreds of emails that land in your inbox each week), and I thought it was the way to go. But something didn’t feel right. I wasn’t enjoying the process. It felt more like a sales pitch than a genuine connection. That’s when realized that while marketing and sales knowledge are important, what I truly craved was a personal, authentic connection with my audience. So, I decided to shift my focus from selling to serving. This wasn’t just a change in strategy; it was a change in mindset. It completely went against the grain of what others were doing, but I didn’t care. It felt right.

Embracing Authenticity in Your Email Marketing Approach

This shift to focusing on serving rather than selling was the turning point for me. Suddenly, writing emails became a joy. It was no longer about what I could get, but about what I could give. This approach resonated deeply with my subscribers. They could feel the authenticity, the shift from transactional to relational. It was this authenticity that supercharged the growth of my list. More than just growing numbers, I was nurturing real connections.

Creating Heartfelt Content: A Key Email Marketing Strategy

The real turning point came when I realized it’s not just about sending emails; it’s about connecting. I began sharing more than just updates – I shared life lessons, failures that turned into stepping stones, and little victories that felt huge. Every email became a piece of my heart, sent out into the world with hope. And guess what? That hope came back to me, tenfold, in the form of engaged, passionate subscribers who resonated with my words.

The Role of Irresistible Freebies in Email List Growth

One word: Freebies. But not just any freebies. I’m talking about those heart-crafted, value-packed gems that people can’t resist. Whether it was an insightful e-book, a helpful guide, or a set of beautiful templates, each freebie was a token of my appreciation for their time and inbox space. It was my way of saying, “Hey, I see you, I appreciate you, and I’m here to add value to your life.”

But here’s our little secret: I optimized the sharing of personal resources that had a significant impact on my business. Utilizing Flodesk was a game-changer for me. It made creating and distributing opt-ins for my resources incredibly straightforward and effective. The ease of designing eye-catching, engaging opt-ins allowed me to get my resources in front of more people, without the headache. 

And trust me, when you’re using a platform that automates the whole process for you, it becomes much easier to grow your list.

And then there’s Pinterest – an absolute powerhouse. Unlike traditional social media platforms, Pinterest works like a search engine. So, when someone search for a business planner, guess whose shows up? Yep, mine! The beauty of Pinterest is that you don’t need a massive following to get your content seen by the right people. This aspect was crucial, especially when starting from scratch. It meant that growing my email list became a lot more feasible, even without a large social media presence to begin with.

Using these tools, I was able to connect my free resources with those who needed them most. It wasn’t just about giving something away for free; it was about providing real, tangible help. This approach didn’t just add to my email list – it built a community of engaged, grateful individuals who found true value in what I had to offer.

Unlocking Email List Growth: Proven Email Marketing Strategies

In my own experience, a few key email marketing strategies have been instrumental in not only increasing the numbers but also in cultivating a list brimming with engaged, interested subscribers. Now, I’m excited to share these tried-and-tested techniques with you. These are the strategies that have made the most significant impact for me, and I believe they can do the same for your list. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your existing list, these tactics are all about creating genuine connections and providing value that resonates with your audience. Let’s dive into these game-changing strategies and explore how you can use them to grow your email list effectively.

Captivating Freebies:

Everyone loves a good freebie, especially when it’s packed with value. Think about what your audience would find irresistible – an ebook filled with insider tips, stunning presets for photographers, handy printables, or comprehensive lists that simplify their lives. Offering these free digital downloads in exchange for an email sign-up is a fantastic way to grow your list. It’s not just about giving something away; it’s about showing your audience the kind of value they can expect from you.

Discounts for First-Time Shoppers:

Encourage newcomers to take the plunge with a special discount on their first purchase. This is a classic, yet effective way to turn casual browsers into subscribers and customers. It’s a small gesture that can lead to a lasting relationship, showing them that their decision to engage with your brand is valued and appreciated.

Personalized Price Lists for Potential Clients:

If you’re in a service-based industry, sharing a tailored price list can be a powerful tool. It’s more than just a list of services and prices; it’s the beginning of a personalized conversation with potential clients. When you attach this information to your email sign-up, you’re not only providing valuable information but also opening the door to further engagement.

Interactive Content:

Engagement is key, and interactive content is a fun way to achieve it. Create quizzes, polls, or surveys that not only entertain but also provide insights into your audience’s preferences and needs. This approach not only encourages sign-ups but also enhances your understanding of your audience, allowing you to tailor future content and offers.

Hosting Free Online Workshops or Webinars:

This is a powerful way to demonstrate your expertise and offer real value to your audience. Choose a topic that resonates with your audience’s interests or pain points, and provide actionable insights. In exchange for this valuable content, participants can sign up for your email list. This approach not only boosts your list but also establishes you as an authority in your field.

The Unmatched Value of an Email List

Let’s turn our focus to the powerhouse of digital marketing – the email list. You might wonder, with all the social media buzz, why focus so much on an email list? Well, let me share some enlightening stats and insights.

First off, did you know that for every $1 spent on email marketing, the average return is a staggering $42? That’s an ROI that’s hard to ignore. In a digital landscape flooded with various marketing strategies, email consistently delivers a return that can transform the way we do business.

But beyond the numbers, there’s the power of having direct access to your audience. Unlike social media, where algorithms can change overnight and impact your reach, your email list is yours. It’s a direct line to your audience, unfiltered and unaffected by the whims of social media platforms. This means that you’re not just another post in a crowded feed, but a welcomed guest in someone’s inbox.

Moreover, email allows for personalized and targeted communication. You can segment your list based on interests, engagement levels, or purchase history, tailoring your message to resonate more deeply with different groups. This level of personalization is a game-changer, fostering a stronger connection with your audience. 

Now, here’s my question to you: What’s your story, and how can you use it to connect with others? How can you create content that touches hearts and opens doors to genuine conversations?

Growing an email list is more than a numbers game. It’s about building a community, one email at a time. So, start with your story, be consistent, and most importantly, be authentically you. Because when you speak from the heart, the world listens.

P.S. Remember, your voice has power, your story matters, and there’s someone out there waiting to hear what you have to say. Start today, one email, one connection at a time.

Email marketing has been around for a long time. It’s a fantastic way to reach a large group of people in a short period of time. The idea is that you send marketing information to your subscribers, typically via email. Many companies use email marketing to promote their products and services. Some of the advantages to email marketing are that it is a one-way conversation, so you can control the conversation. You can also use it to measure how successful your marketing campaign is.

Email marketing has been around for a long time. It’s a fantastic way of reaching a large group of people in a short period of time. The idea is that you send marketing information to your subscribers, typically via email.

Which is Better – Social Media Marketing or Email Marketing?

Email marketing and social media marketing are both effective ways to reach out to customers and promote your business. So which is better for your business?

Email marketing is more personal and can be more targeted than social media marketing. With email marketing, you can reach out to customers with specific messages that are relevant to their interests. Email marketing is also more affordable than social media marketing.

Social media marketing is more immediate and can reach a larger audience than email marketing. With social media marketing, you can post updates and messages that customers will see right away. Social media marketing is also more interactive than email marketing, so you can engage with customers and get feedback in real-time.

So which is better for your business – email marketing or social media marketing? It depends on your goals and your budget. If you want to reach out to customers with specific, targeted messages, then email marketing is a good choice. If you want to reach a larger audience more quickly and interact with them in real-time, then social media marketing is a better choice.

Unlike social media, you own your list

This means that you can contact them at any time, without needing permission, and without worrying about being blocked or shadow banned. Email marketing also allows you to build deeper relationships with your audience, because you can segment your list to send more personalized emails.

With social media, you’re at the mercy of the algorithm. Your post might be shown to a small percentage of your followers, and then only if they’re online at the same time you are. You can boost your posts or run ads, but you’re still playing by the rules of the platform.

Email marketing gives you more control and allows you to build a relationship with your audience that goes beyond the occasional like, share, or comment.

Which channel can generate the most leads?

Email marketing and social media marketing are both excellent lead generation channels. However, email marketing tends to generate more leads than social media marketing. This is because email marketing allows you to directly contact your leads and build a relationship with them, whereas social media marketing is more of a indirect way to generate leads.

Use social media as an introduction to new customers

Email is perfect for delivering personalized content, coupons, and updates on new product launches.

Email marketing and social media marketing are both important tools for businesses. They both have their own strengths and weaknesses. Email marketing is good for delivering personalized content, coupons, and updates on new product launches. Social media is good for introductions to new customers and staying in touch with current ones.

Serve your audience with great content that speaks to them

Email marketing has been around for many years, and it’s still one of the best ways to market your business. It’s important to have a solid marketing strategy in place that includes email marketing. The difference between social media marketing and email marketing is that you can use email even if your business doesn’t have an online presence. 

However, with social media, you’ll need to be on sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram in order to reach a larger audience. (and you’re typically only going to reach a small perentage of your audience every time you post). If your goal is to grow your brand through content creation, then you’ll want to create the right type of content that speaks directly to your audience on those sites. That way they’ll be more likely to follow you and engage with what you’re saying on those networks.

Move your social media audience to your list

Regardless of how big or small your social media following is today, you’re goal should always be to move that audience over to your email list by using opt-ins.  You may not need an email list right away if you have an already thriving social media following, but even then it’s never too early to start building out this important channel. 

The beauty of an email list is that they allow you to communicate directly with your followers at any time and provide them with valuable information based on their interests. If someone signs up for your email newsletter, they’re giving you permission to reach out to them again in the future with content they’ll find interesting.

If you’re already seeing success on social media, consider which of your posts are performing well and test email opt-ins on those to determine what works best. Keep track of all your results in a spreadsheet so that you can constantly improve and see growth over time and really understand what opt-ins are growing your list the fastest. 

Best opt-ins to grow your email list

Here are the most successful opt-ins to grow your email list: 

· Free trial of your product or service. 

· Exclusive content that can only be accessed via email. 

· Freebies, discounts, and other incentives. 

· Prize in exchange for an email address. 

· Inviting readers to subscribe to a newsletter by offering valuable tips delivered directly to their inbox. 

· Giving your visitors the opportunity to enter a contest for something valuable.

Easy and simple opt-in ideas for your business

Don’t have an opt-in form on your website yet? No problem! Here are a few easy ways to get started and start growing your list with very little effort. 

· Requiring email opt-in to view certain pages on your website (like pricing pages)

· Popup opt-in with a discount code

· Simple header or footer opt-in to get on your list

These simple ways of setting up on opt-in have proven to be really successful and don’t require much work to set up. 

Segment your email list subscribers 

One thing I love about having a large email list is making it possible to have my subscribers opt-in for specific segments within my list. If someone only wants to be notified on upcoming sales, I have a segmentation for that. Maybe they want to be the first to know about upcoming resources and freebies, they get added to a new segment. Allowing self-segmentation allows my audience to opt-in to get specific emails and only receive the content they want. 

And always, always include a compelling reason to sign up. Make it clear to your visitors what they’re going to get by subscribing. If you plan on sending out a regular newsletter, state how often that newsletter will arrive and offer a few examples of what it will contain.

Top platforms for email marketing

Email marketing is still one of the most effective ways to reach your customers but it can be overwhelming to find a platform that fits your needs. There’s a lot of different options out there ranging from Mailchimp, Convertkit, Mailerlite, Activecampaign and my personal favorite Flodesk. 

With so many options, it can be hard to decide which platform will work best for your business. While some are simple drag-and-drop email campaigns, others have a lot more features that allow you to do things like create landing pages and track sales funnels.

I’ve used Flodesk for years and absolutely love it for my business. 

Many businesses are now trying to use email marketing as a way to grow their audience, rather than relying solely on social media. After all, social media can only get you so far. But when it comes down to it, which marketing strategy will work better for your business: social media or email marketing? The answer really depends on what kind of business you’re running and the goals that you have in mind.

Email marketing has been around much longer than social media marketing, and while it may not be as flashy, it’s still one of the most effective ways to promote your business. You need to devote a lot of time and resources to social media marketing, but you can get started right away with email marketing. 

Email marketing will allow you to reach customers who are already interested in your product or service. You’re also able to keep track of which emails work best so that you can send more like them in the future. With social media, on the other hand, there’s no way of knowing if people are seeing your posts unless they interact with them.

In the end, what’s most important is that you focus on creating a well-rounded marketing strategy. Email marketing and social media marketing are two of the most popular ways of reaching out to customers online. It’s important to have a well-rounded marketing strategy so that you can reach your audience in different ways.  That’s why it’s not an either/or situation when it comes to email marketing vs social media marketing – they should both be part of any comprehensive digital marketing campaign. 

Overview: Performance Statistics

It’s no secret that social media has taken over as the number one platform for marketing. In fact, according to Statista, social media platforms have 2.46 billion active users worldwide.

Email marketing, on the other hand, is still going strong. In 2017, there were 3.7 billion email users worldwide. By 2020, that number is expected to grow to 4.1 billion.

So, which one should you use for your business? The answer, of course, is both.

Here’s a look at some email marketing vs social media performance statistics for 2018.

Email Marketing

• Open rate: 20.81%

• Click-through rate: 2.78%

Social Media

• Engagement rate: 1.73%

As you can see, email marketing has a higher open rate and click-through rate than social media. However, social media has a higher engagement rate.

Both email marketing and social media are important for your business. Email marketing is a great way to reach your customers directly, while social media is a great way to engage with your customers.

One Area Where Social Does Come Ahead

Social media platforms allow you to easily interact with your customers in a way that email simply cannot match. Customers can like, share, comment, and even direct message you on social media, which helps to create a more personal connection.

Email marketing still has its place in a solid marketing strategy, but it should be used in tandem with social media for the best results. Both email and social media allow you to reach a wide audience with your marketing message, but social media offers the added benefit of engagement. If you can get customers interacting with your brand on social media, you’re more likely to create a lasting relationship that will lead to continued business.

Social Media Marketing Vs. Email Marketing: Pros & Cons

Email marketing and social media marketing are two very different beasts. As a business owner, you need to decide which one is right for you and your products or services. Here are some pros and cons of each to help you make your decision.

Email marketing is great for building relationships with your customers. You can send out regular updates, special offers, and coupons to keep them coming back. It’s also fairly easy to set up and track results.

Social media marketing is a great way to reach a large audience with little effort. You can post updates, special offers, and coupons on your social media pages and watch as your followers share them with their friends.

However, social media marketing can be very unpredictable. It’s hard to know when your posts will take off and when they will flop. And, if you don’t have a large following to begin with, it can be difficult to get your social media marketing campaign off the ground.

Final Conclusion on Social Media Marketing vs Email Marketing

In general, email marketing is more effective than social media marketing because it allows you to directly target your audience with a personalized message. With social media marketing, your message is more likely to get lost in the noise. For me theres a clear winner based on the points listed below.

1. You Own Your List of Subscribers

Email marketing is permission-based, meaning that people have given you permission to email them by opting in to your list. This makes it much harder for social media platforms to shut you down or for competitors to swoop in and poach your list. You also have more control over how you communicate with your subscribers. Email marketing allows you to build a relationship with your list, segment your list, and personalize your communications.

Social media platforms, on the other hand, do not give you ownership of your followers. The platform can shut down your account at any time, or a competitor can come in and try to poach your followers. You also have less control over how you communicate with your followers on social media. With email marketing, you can segment your list and send highly targeted, personalized communications.

2. You Get a Higher ROI with email marketing

Email marketing has a higher return on investment (ROI) than any other form of marketing—3800% on average, according to Campaign Monitor. That’s because it’s easy to set up, track, and test different email campaigns, and email is still the preferred method of communication for most people. You’re In Control of the message with email marketing, you own the list of subscribers, and you control the content of the messages you send them.

That’s not the case with social media. The platforms may change the way they display your content, or they may delete it altogether if they don’t like what you’ve posted. You don’t need to spend as much time on email marketing. Email marketing is a relatively passive form of marketing. You can automate a lot of the work, and once you have a system in place, it doesn’t take a lot of time to maintain. You can set up automated messages to go out to new subscribers, and you can also send out regular newsletters and other email content without having to create each message from scratch every time. Social media, on the other hand, is much more time-consuming.

Source

3. You Don’t Have to Compete with Algorithms

Another big advantage that email has over social media is that you don’t have to compete with algorithms. When you post something on social media, it’s not guaranteed that your followers will see it. In fact, unless you pay to promote your post, there’s a good chance that only a small percentage of your followers will see it. On the other hand, when you send an email, it will go directly to your subscribers’ inboxes. You don’t have to worry about whether or not your message will be seen.

4. Organic reach is far better with email marketing

You’re able to segment your email list to send highly relevant, targeted content to a specific group of people, which leads to higher engagement and conversion rates.

The Takeaway

In the world of digital marketing, there is a lot of debate about which platform is better for promoting your business: email marketing or social media marketing. Both have their pros and cons, but in general, email marketing is more effective for building relationships with customers, while social media marketing is better for promoting your brand and reaching new customers.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WORKBOOK

Since launching our Social Media Membership, we’ve had numerous requests for a workbook, and I’m thrilled to finally release this pretty little thing. It’s a 29-page workbook covering our marketing strategy. We even made sure to include 10 ready-to-go captions so you can jump right in and put this strategy to use!

Social media marketing has proven to be an effective means of boosting traffic and brand awareness for businesses of all sizes, which means that more and more companies are looking to get in on the action. The only problem? Creating a social media marketing strategy can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where to start. But by following these three steps and using the Social Media Marketing Workbook, you’ll be able to create a great social media marketing strategy that works for your business.

The best social media marketing strategy is all about connecting with people—specifically, it’s about identifying who you want to reach and then how you want to reach them. Defining your target audience will help inform what content you should share (and when), how you interact with your followers, and which networks are right for your business. So start by defining who exactly you’re trying to reach before getting started with this social media marketing workbook.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING WORKBOOK

DOWNLOAD INCLUDES:

29 Social Media Guide
Social Media Strategy
10 Curated Captions
Social Stats Page
Goal Plan Page

Here’s a quick look at some of the pages;

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I used to believe that if I just followed the latest trends, my marketing would magically fall into place. That if I jumped on the latest viral sounds, participated in every trending challenge, and crafted my content to match what the algorithm wanted, I’d finally see the results I was chasing. But after years of playing that game—posting, adjusting, and constantly feeling behind—I realized something big:

Trends come and go. But your brand? It deserves a strategy that feels timeless.

Before I took a whole year off from social media, marketing felt like a never-ending to-do list. There was always something new to keep up with. A new format. A new platform. A new strategy that someone swore was the “game-changer.”

But when I stepped away, something beautiful happened—I realized that my business was going to be just fine without it.

That realization changed everything.

Why Chasing Trends Isn’t a Marketing Strategy

When I look back on my time before stepping away from social media, I see just how much I was creating for the platform instead of creating for my business. I wasn’t focusing on what actually worked for me—I was focusing on what was working for everyone else.

And that’s where so many entrepreneurs get stuck.

Trends give the illusion that if we just hop on board at the right time, our business will explode. But here’s the truth: chasing trends is like running on a treadmill—you’re constantly moving, but you’re not actually getting anywhere. Sure, you might get a quick spike in engagement, but what happens when that trend fades? You’re left scrambling to find the next big thing, repeating the cycle over and over again.

The biggest shift happened when I stopped looking at trends as a strategy and started looking at them as tools—things I could use occasionally, but not things I needed to depend on for success. And when I made that change, I found myself creating content that actually felt good, content that didn’t feel forced or rushed, but instead felt aligned with the vision I had for my business.

How I Built a Marketing Plan That Felt Like Me

When I took a full year off social media, I didn’t stop marketing—I just started doing it differently.

Instead of spending hours trying to craft posts that would perform well on social media, I asked myself a different question: What kind of marketing actually makes sense for me?

I thought about the parts of my business that were already working and leaned into them even harder. I wrote longer-form content because I love writing, and I knew that my best clients were the ones who took the time to read my words. I doubled down on my email list because I wanted a direct connection with my audience—one that didn’t disappear because of an algorithm change. I focused on SEO and Pinterest because I wanted my content to work for me for months, even years, instead of fading away in 24 hours.

And it worked. The more I leaned into the strategies that actually aligned with my strengths, the easier marketing became. I didn’t feel the pressure to keep up with trends because I was building something that would last beyond them.

How to Build an Authentic Marketing Plan That Works for YOU

If you’ve ever felt drained by trying to keep up with the latest marketing trends, I want you to know that you don’t have to. There’s another way. A way that feels lighter, more aligned, and most importantly—more sustainable.

1. Ask Yourself What You Actually Enjoy Creating

Marketing is only effective if you actually do it consistently. And consistency is impossible when you’re forcing yourself to create content you don’t enjoy.

So take a step back and think about what comes naturally to you. Do you love writing? Start a blog or a weekly newsletter. Do you enjoy talking? Maybe a podcast or video content is the way to go. Does storytelling excite you? Focus on platforms that allow for deep, meaningful connection, like long-form captions or email sequences.

Marketing doesn’t have to be about squeezing yourself into a box that doesn’t fit. It should feel like an extension of who you are.

2. Focus on Long-Term Visibility, Not Just Quick Wins

One of the biggest lessons I learned when I stepped away from social media was how much more powerful long-term visibility is compared to short-lived engagement. When you create content that is built to last—like SEO-optimized blog posts, evergreen email sequences, or Pinterest-friendly content—you’re setting yourself up for marketing that continues working for you long after you hit publish.

Instead of constantly feeling like you have to churn out more and more content just to stay relevant, imagine creating something once and having it bring in new leads for months or even years. That’s the power of long-term marketing.

3. Show Up for the People Already Here

One of the biggest marketing myths is that you always need to be chasing more—more followers, more engagement, more views. But here’s the thing: the people who are already following you? They are the ones who are most likely to buy from you.

Instead of focusing all your energy on trying to attract new people, what if you poured that same energy into nurturing the ones who are already here? Reply to their emails, engage with them in your DMs, send them valuable content that makes them feel seen. The strongest businesses aren’t built on a massive audience—they’re built on deep connections with the right people.

4. Ditch the Need for Virality

For years, I thought that if I could just create one viral post, everything in my business would change. But do you know what I realized? Virality isn’t a business strategy—it’s luck.

Going viral might get you a surge of new followers, but if those people aren’t your ideal clients, it won’t translate to actual business growth. Instead of chasing viral moments, focus on consistent, intentional growth—because that’s what leads to sustainable success.

Stop Playing a Game You Don’t Even Want to Win

Looking back, I realize how much time I wasted trying to “win” at social media when I didn’t even want to play the game.

Now? I create what I want, when I want, in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.

And that’s the secret—marketing doesn’t have to feel exhausting. You get to build a strategy that fits your business, not what’s trending. So let this be your permission slip to stop chasing every new thing and start creating a marketing plan that actually feels good.

Because at the end of the day? Trends fade. But your business is here to stay.

Running ads can feel a little like gambling. You set a budget, launch a campaign, cross your fingers, and hope something good comes out of it. And when the results don’t come? That sinking feeling starts to creep in.

Where is my money going?
Why isn’t this working?
Should I just give up on ads altogether?

I get it because I’ve been there. I’ve run ads that flopped, watched my budget disappear into thin air, and spent way too much time trying to figure out where I went wrong. But once I cracked the code on what actually makes ads work, everything changed. My ads started converting, my budget stretched further, and I built a sales funnel that generated over $600K for just one of my products.

The truth is, ads can be wildly profitable—but only when you know what you’re doing. So today, I’m breaking down the three most costly ad mistakes entrepreneurs make—and exactly how to fix them.

Mistake #1: Running Ads Without a Clear Strategy

Too many business owners throw money at ads without a plan. They boost a post or run a campaign without thinking about why they’re doing it or what they want to achieve. But ads aren’t magic—you can’t just put money in and expect sales to roll out the other side.

What Happens When You Don’t Have a Strategy?

• You waste money on ads that don’t convert.
• You get random traffic that doesn’t actually buy.
• You feel frustrated and convinced that ads “don’t work.”

The problem isn’t the ads themselves—it’s the lack of a clear strategy behind them. Ads should fit into a bigger marketing funnel that guides people from discovery to purchase.

What to Do Instead:

Define Your Goal – Before running an ad, ask yourself: What is the ONE thing I want this ad to accomplish? Are you trying to grow your email list? Sell a product? Get more traffic? Your ad should have a single, clear objective.

Know Your Customer Journey – Your ad should lead somewhere—whether it’s a high-converting landing page, an irresistible freebie, or a sales page designed to convert. A cold audience rarely buys immediately, so think about how your ad fits into their journey with your brand.

Use Targeting to Reach the Right People – The key to successful ads isn’t just getting in front of more people—it’s getting in front of the right people. Use interest-based and behavior-based targeting to reach those who are most likely to buy from you.

Mistake #2: Ignoring the Power of Creative & Copy

Even if you have the best strategy in the world, your ad won’t work if your creative and copy aren’t compelling. Your ad needs to stop the scroll and make people care. If your image is bland, your video is boring, or your copy doesn’t speak directly to your audience’s pain points, they’re going to scroll right past it.

Why Creative & Copy Matter

• First impressions count. People decide within seconds whether they care about your ad or not.
• Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram are VISUAL platforms. Your ad has to stand out.
• Good copy sells. If your words don’t connect with your audience, they won’t take action.

What to Do Instead:

Use High-Quality, Eye-Catching Visuals – If you’re using Pinterest ads, remember that Pinterest is a search engine for inspiration. Your visuals should be bright, clear, and engaging. Show a transformation or make it clear why your product or service is valuable.

Write Copy That Speaks Directly to Your Audience – Instead of saying “Check out my new course!”, say “Tired of throwing money at ads that don’t work? Here’s how to fix it.” See the difference? Your copy should address your audience’s pain points and position your offer as the solution.

Test Different Versions – Small tweaks can make a huge difference in performance. Try different images, headlines, and calls to action to see what resonates most with your audience.

Mistake #3: Not Tracking & Tweaking Your Ads

Would you ever invest in something without checking to see if it’s working? Probably not. But that’s exactly what a lot of entrepreneurs do with ads. They set an ad live and then never check the data to see what’s working and what’s not.

What Happens When You Don’t Track Your Ads?

• You waste money on underperforming ads.
• You have no idea why an ad isn’t working.
• You miss out on opportunities to optimize and scale.

The beauty of digital ads is that they give you data. But that data is useless if you’re not using it.

What to Do Instead:

Check Your Metrics – Keep an eye on your click-through rates (CTR), cost per click (CPC), and return on ad spend (ROAS). If people aren’t clicking, your creative might need work. If they’re clicking but not converting, your landing page might need optimization.

Adjust as Needed – If an ad isn’t performing well, don’t panic—optimize that ad creative! Try tweaking your audience targeting, switching out your creative, or adjusting your copy. Small changes can make a big impact.

Double Down on What Works – If you find a winning ad, don’t just let it run—scale it! Increase your budget and keep testing small tweaks to make it even more profitable. And TURN OFF ads that are not performing so you can invest more of your budget on ads that are bringing in the best return.

The Bottom Line: Profitable Ads Are Possible

Running ads doesn’t have to feel like throwing money into a black hole. When you avoid these costly mistakes and focus on strategy, creative, and tracking, your ads become a powerful tool for growth.

If you’re tired of guessing and want a proven system to run ads that actually get results, I’ve got you covered.

Learn My Exact Pinterest Ad Strategy

Inside my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course, I’ll show you exactly how I used Pinterest ads to generate over $600K. This isn’t just another course—it’s a step-by-step guide to:

Setting up ads the right way so you don’t waste money
Creating high-converting visuals and copy
Targeting the right audience (so you’re not shouting into the void)
Tracking and tweaking ads for real results

Ready to stop throwing money at ads that don’t work and start running ads that actually make you money?

👉 Check it out here: Pinterest Ad Strategy Course

Because running ads should feel empowering—not stressful. Let’s make your ads work for you, not against you. I’ll teach you everything you need to know in under 90 minutes!

For years, I believed that the only way to grow my business was through working longer hours, posting more content, showing up every single day, hoping that organic marketing alone would bring in enough leads and sales. I thought if I just worked harder, the results would come.

And while organic marketing absolutely has its place, it wasn’t until I ran my first ad that I realized something that changed everything: I didn’t have to work more to grow. I just had to work smarter.

I went from feeling like I constantly had to grind for every single sale to seeing my business scale in a way that felt… dare I say, effortless? That’s when I knew: ads were the missing piece.

And I’ll never go back.

How Running Ads Changed Everything for Me

I’ll never forget the moment I launched my first paid ad. I had poured so much time into growing my business organically, yet it still felt like I was stuck in a cycle of needing to work around the clock. When I stopped working, the sales stopped coming.

I figured I had nothing to lose, so I took the leap. I started with a small budget, testing out just $5 a day. And then something wild happened—

For every dollar I spent, I was making three dollars back.

I watched as people who had never heard of me before started clicking, signing up, and buying. I could see exactly what I was spending and exactly what I was earning in return. For the first time, I wasn’t just hoping my marketing efforts would work—I had actual numbers to prove it.

I wasn’t just throwing content into the void and waiting for engagement. I was actively bringing in leads and customers on autopilot.

That one ad completely shifted how I looked at my business. It’s been over 10 years now, and I’m still running ads today.

Why I’ll Never Rely on Organic Marketing Alone Again

Don’t get me wrong—organic marketing is incredibly valuable. SEO, email marketing, and social media all play a role in growing a sustainable business.

But organic marketing alone has its limitations:

• It’s unpredictable. You can create amazing content, but you have no control over how many people see it or when it gains traction.
• It takes time. Building an audience through organic content is a long game, and while that’s great, it doesn’t always help when you need to drive sales now.
• It’s exhausting. If you’re solely relying on organic marketing, you’re constantly on the content hamster wheel, trying to get enough visibility to make sales.

With paid ads, you control your reach. You’re no longer at the mercy of algorithms. You can take your best offer, put it in front of the right audience, and see results without waiting months (or years) for organic marketing to work.

Why I Use Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest Ads

Each platform has its strengths, and depending on your business, one might work better than another. Here’s how I use each:

Facebook & Instagram Ads

• Best for retargeting and getting in front of warm audiences.
• Great for brand awareness and engagement-based campaigns.
• Allows for highly detailed targeting based on demographics and behavior.
• Best for running ads to freebie opt-ins, webinars, and digital product sales.

Pinterest Ads (My Favorite Strategy!)

• Pinterest is a search engine, not a social media platform, meaning your ads have a longer shelf life.
• Best for getting in front of people actively searching for solutions.
• Great for evergreen promotion, where your pins continue working long after your campaign ends.
• I scaled ONE of my offerings to over $600K using Pinterest Ads alone—you can read about my strategy here.

Out of all these platforms, Pinterest has been my best-performing ad platform in the most recent years, which is why I created an entire class breaking down exactly how I run my Pinterest ads for maximum ROI. If you want to learn how to use Pinterest ads to scale your business, you can check out my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course!

Pinterest is also a wonderful platform for anyone who might not yet have an established audience to market to. Unlike Facebook and Instagram, where ads are often shown to people based on their past engagement or behaviors, Pinterest users are actively searching for solutions, ideas, and products. This means you don’t need a massive following or an email list to start seeing results. Your ads will reach people who are already looking for what you offer, giving you a direct path to potential customers without spending years building an audience first. That’s the power of Pinterest—it connects you with warm, ready-to-buy leads, even if you’re just getting started.

How I Make Ads Work for My Business

If there’s one thing I’ve studied and tested more than anything else in my years of business, it’s how to set up ads that actually convert. Because while ads can be powerful, running them the wrong way can feel like throwing money into a black hole.

So here’s the simplified version of how I make ads work:

Step 1: Get Clear on Your Offer

Before running ads, you need a clear, irresistible offer. Whether it’s a digital product, a course, or a service, you need to be able to answer these questions:

✔ Who is this for?
✔ What problem does it solve?
✔ Why would someone choose this over a competitor’s offer?

Ads won’t magically fix a weak offer. But when you have an offer that works? Ads amplify it. And if you’re not quite sure what to try and promote in a paid ad first, just look at your best sellers and start there—those have already been proven to sell to your audience.

All too often, I see people getting excited about jumping into paid ads and creating something new just for it, or trying to promote the thing they are most excited about. But here’s the truth: the best-performing ads come from promoting what’s already working. If you have a product or service that has sold well organically, start there.

A good way to guarantee your ad performs? Go with the product that has the best chance. Let the data guide you, and build from that success.

Step 2: Start Small and Test Everything

The biggest mistake I see people make with ads? Going all in too fast.

Instead of dumping a huge budget into an ad right away, start small—$5 to $10 a day. Run a few different versions of your ad, testing different images, headlines, and copy to see what resonates most with your audience.

Let the data guide you. The numbers will tell you what’s working. Once you have an ad that’s converting well, then you scale.

Step 3: Focus on the Right Metrics

Not all metrics matter. Forget vanity metrics like likes and comments—when running ads, here’s what you should focus on:

Click-through rate (CTR) – Are people actually clicking on your ad?
Cost per lead (CPL) – How much are you spending to acquire a new lead or customer?
Return on ad spend (ROAS) – Are you making more than you’re spending?

When you know these numbers, running ads becomes a simple math equation—if you’re making $3 for every $1 spent, why wouldn’t you keep going?!

The Marketing Shift That Changed My Life

Running ads was the best decision I ever made for my business because it freed me from the constant grind of having to show up every single day just to make sales.

If you’re ready to get serious about ads—especially Pinterest Ads, which have been a huge part of my success—be sure to check out my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course. If you’re ready to get serious about ads—especially Pinterest Ads, which have been a huge part of my success—be sure to check out my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course. I break down everything you need to know so you can get started with confidence. I show you exactly how I go about setting up my own ads, and give you unique examples that you can apply to your business. All under 90 minutes.

Because once you get ads working for you, there’s no turning back.

Content Prompt: “Working with [your business] isn’t just about [surface-level benefit]—it’s about gaining [unexpected benefit or transformation]. If you’re ready for results that go deeper, let’s get started today!”

Copywriting Formula: Unexpected Benefits

Sometimes, the biggest game-changers are the ones we didn’t see coming. That’s why this formula works so well—it shifts the focus from the expected to the extraordinary. Instead of just talking about the obvious perks of working with you, this formula helps uncover the deeper, more meaningful transformations your clients experience.

Here’s how it works:

1. Start with the expected. Identify a common, surface-level benefit that people associate with your service.
2. Reveal the deeper transformation. Share the unexpected ways your service changes lives—things clients didn’t even realize they needed.
3. Make it emotional. Connection is key, so dig into how these benefits feel and why they matter.
4. Call to action. Invite your audience to experience these transformations for themselves.

Why it works: People expect results, but when they discover that your service changes more than just the obvious, that’s when the magic happens. It builds trust, deepens connections, and turns customers into lifelong fans.

Wordsmith Instructions

Write a blog post that highlights the unexpected benefits of working with me. Share examples of how clients’ lives or businesses have transformed beyond what they anticipated, and end with a CTA encouraging action.

How to Use This Prompt

Here’s how to bring the “What You’ll Gain” prompt to life:

1. Start with the obvious. What’s a basic, expected benefit that people assume they’ll get from working with you?
2. Dig deeper. What’s an unexpected way your service truly transforms their business or life?
3. Make it personal. Share real examples, emotions, and client experiences to drive home the impact.
4. Wrap it up with an invitation. Encourage them to step into this transformation by working with you.

Information Needed About Your Business

To make this prompt powerful, focus on these key details:

• What’s a surface-level benefit that most clients expect?
• What’s the deeper transformation they experience?
• How does this unexpected benefit make a lasting impact?
• What’s the next step they should take?

Once you have these answers, your post will feel real, relatable, and compelling to your audience.

New to Wordsmith? Here’s the deal—Wordsmith helps you take content prompts like this one and turn them into polished, on-brand content in seconds. Whether you need a blog post, a newsletter, or social media captions, Wordsmith does the heavy lifting so you can focus on running your business.

Example Post Using This Prompt:

I usually keep these super short, more like a social media caption, but wanted to show you that you can easily use Wordsmith to write newsletters too. *I used my personal writing style which you can get right inside the Wordsmith dashboard when taking the personlized quiz. 🖤

Subject Line: No more 11 PM content panic posts

Preview Text: If you’ve ever scrambled for something to post at the last minute, this one’s for you.

Email Body: Be honest with me — how many times have you found yourself staring at your screen at 11 PM, knowing you should post something but having absolutely no idea what to say? Maybe you throw together a quick caption, maybe you skip posting altogether (again), and maybe—just maybe—you wonder if showing up online is supposed to feel this exhausting.

If that’s you, friend, you’re not alone.

For so many business owners, content creation feels like a never-ending game of catch-up. You know you need to post, but between client work, life, and, well… literally everything else, creating content often gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. And when you finally do sit down to write, the blank page stares back at you like a judgmental reminder of how long it’s been since your last post.

But what if it didn’t have to be that way?

Imagine this: Instead of scrambling for ideas at the last minute, you have a clear content plan mapped out for you. You know exactly what to post, when to post it, and how it fits into your bigger marketing strategy. No more guessing. No more throwing spaghetti at the wall. No more posting just to post.

With Wordsmith, content creation becomes easy. Like sit down with your coffee, pop in a prompt, and let the magic happen easy.

It’s about working smarter, not harder.

Instead of reinventing the wheel every single time you need a post, Wordsmith takes one idea and turns it into a blog post, a newsletter, and multiple social media captions—all in your brand voice, all designed to connect with your audience.

Suddenly, instead of frantically trying to come up with something clever at the last minute, you’re scheduling content in advance. You’re showing up consistently. You’re building relationships instead of playing the engagement game. And best of all? You’re marketing your business in a way that feels good.

Why This Matters…

Because let’s be honest—your audience can tell when you’re just posting for the sake of posting. And they can definitely tell when you’re showing up with intention, sharing content that actually speaks to them.

When you shift from scrambling to strategy, a few things start to happen:

✔️ You gain confidence—knowing your content is thoughtfully planned and aligns with your bigger business goals.
✔️ You create more impact—because you’re not just posting; you’re connecting, educating, and building trust.
✔️ You actually enjoy marketing—yes, it’s possible! When content creation stops feeling like a chore, you want to show up.

This is your sign to stop waiting until the last second and start creating content with ease. Wordsmith is here to help you go from scattered to strategic—without the stress, without the overwhelm, and without the late-night posting panic.

Let’s make content creation fun again. Sign up for Wordsmith today and start showing up like the confident CEO you are.

For years, I let social media dictate my content strategy. I would wake up, figure out what to post that day, and spend way too much time scrolling, getting sidetracked by what everyone else was doing. My focus was on what would perform well on social media—not what would actually move my business forward.

Then, I took a full year off social media (you can read about that here), and suddenly, everything changed. Without the constant pressure to create for Instagram, I was able to take a step back and ask myself: What kind of content actually supports my business? What type of content attracts my ideal customers? What helps me grow in a way that feels aligned and sustainable? What kind of content will feel authentic to who I am?

And that’s when I realized: I had my content strategy completely backwards.

The Mistake: Letting Social Media Lead the Way

For the longest time, I believed that social media was the foundation of my marketing. If I could just create the right posts, go viral, or keep up with trends, then everything else would fall into place.

But here’s the problem: social media is fleeting. Posts disappear in hours. Engagement doesn’t always lead to conversions. And constantly trying to figure out “what works” on social media meant I was chasing algorithms instead of building a real strategy.

Social media isn’t bad—but when it becomes the primary driver of your content strategy, it leads to burnout, frustration, and a whole lot of wasted time. I spent years stuck in this cycle, constantly tweaking my content to fit what I thought the algorithm wanted, instead of focusing on the long-term success of my business.

The truth? I was creating content for an audience that wasn’t even mine.

Every time I posted, I hoped for engagement, for validation, for a sign that I was “doing it right.” But I wasn’t building a sustainable marketing strategy—I was just feeding a system that rewarded short-term visibility over long-term growth. And today, I see so many business owners falling into the same trap, feeling beyond frustrated with their marketing strategy.

The Shift: Prioritizing SEO, My Blog, and My Email List

When I stepped away from social media, I had to rethink everything. Without it, where was my audience coming from? How was I reaching new customers?

That’s when I started focusing on:

SEO – Writing blog posts optimized for search so people could find me long after I published.
My Newsletter – Growing and nurturing my email list because it’s the only platform I own.
Long-Form Content – Creating high-value articles, guides, and resources that answer the questions my ideal customers are already searching for.
Creating Pinterest Pins – Turning my long-form content into searchable, evergreen pins because Pinterest is a search engine, not a social media platform.

Instead of creating for social media, I started creating for my business. I built my content strategy around what actually drives traffic, generates leads, and converts into sales.

And the best part? My content started working for me—even when I wasn’t online.

A blog post I wrote months ago continues to bring in new leads every single day. An email I sent weeks ago still generates sales. I stopped chasing likes and started building a content system that worked on autopilot. Am I going viral on social media? No. But is my content strategy growing my business like never before? Oh yes.

The Benefits of Flipping Your Content Strategy

When I made this shift, I saw immediate changes—not just in my business, but in my mindset.

1. Less Stress, More Freedom – No more feeling like I had to post daily to stay relevant. Instead, I could focus on creating meaningful content that lasted longer than 24 hours.
2. Higher Quality Leads – The people finding me through my blog and email list were already interested in what I offered—not just casual scrollers.
3. Consistent Growth – Unlike social media, where reach is unpredictable, my blog and SEO efforts provided steady traffic and new subscribers every month.

Instead of creating endless posts hoping for engagement, I was creating with purpose—and it made all the difference.

Why Social Media Should Be the Last Step (Not the First)

Now, social media is just a small part of my overall marketing plan. It’s a way to repurpose and share content—not the thing that drives my entire business.

Too often, entrepreneurs start with social media and try to build a business around it. But that’s backward.

Here’s what works better:

Start with your core content – Blog posts, podcast episodes, YouTube videos—something that has longevity and value.

Use SEO to drive traffic – Make sure your content is optimized so new people can find you through search.

Build your email list – Because an email list is the only audience you own and control.

Then, repurpose for social media – Take pieces of your content and share them on Instagram, Pinterest, and beyond.

This way, your content is working for you long before it ever gets shared on social media.

Ready to Flip Your Content Strategy?

A Step-by-Step Plan to Build Sustainable Growth

If you’ve been feeling stuck in the endless loop of social media, this is your reminder: it’s time to flip your content strategy.

For too long, social media has been the starting point for content creation. But what if I told you that flipping your strategy—putting long-form, evergreen content first—could be the key to attracting the right customers, growing your business sustainably, and breaking free from the burnout cycle?

Let’s walk through exactly how you can do this, step by step.

Step 1: Get Clear on Your Content Goals

Before you dive into creating content, take a step back and ask yourself:

• What do I want my content to do for my business?
• Am I creating content just to stay visible, or to drive actual leads and sales?
• What are the pain points my ideal customer has, and how can I solve them?

The key takeaway? Your content should work for your business, not just for social media engagement. If your strategy isn’t leading to real business growth, it’s time to rethink it.

Step 2: Brainstorm Content That Attracts Your Ideal Customer

Instead of asking, “What should I post today?”, start asking, “What does my ideal customer need help with?”

Grab a notebook, open a doc, or start a mind map. Jot down every single topic that could educate, inspire, or solve a problem for your audience.

Step 3: Create Long-Form Content That Works for You

Now that you have content ideas, it’s time to build a strong foundation with long-form, evergreen content that will drive leads for months (or even years).

Your best content should live where it can be easily found and revisited—on your blog, YouTube, or podcast.

For each topic from your brainstorming session, choose one of these formats:

A blog post (great for SEO, discoverability, and repurposing later)
A YouTube video (high engagement and long shelf life)
A podcast episode (perfect for in-depth conversations and audience connection)

• Then, optimize it for SEO by making sure:
• It answers a question people are searching for
• It includes relevant keywords naturally throughout
• It has a strong headline that grabs attention
• It provides real value (not just surface-level advice)

Step 4: Build an Email List That Converts

Your email list is the most valuable asset in your business because you own it (unlike social media followers).

Step 5: Use Pinterest to Drive Traffic (Without the Social Media Burnout)

Unlike Instagram and TikTok, Pinterest isn’t about being “active” all the time—it’s a search engine that brings visitors to your content on autopilot.

To get started:

✔ Create 5-10 Pinterest Pins for every blog post, freebie, or product page
✔ Use keyword-rich titles and descriptions (Pinterest works like Google!)
✔ Pin consistently (Tailwind is a great tool for automating this)
✔ Track analytics to see which pins bring the most traffic

Pinterest is one of the best ways to flip your content strategy because it ensures your content keeps working for you long after you hit publish.

Step 6: Repurpose for Social Media (Instead of Creating from Scratch)

Now that you have SEO-friendly, evergreen content, it’s time to repurpose it for social media without starting from scratch.

The key? Social media should be the LAST STEP—not the first.

When you start with long-form content and then repurpose it, you get more visibility with less effort.

When you start putting your business first (instead of social media), everything shifts. You’ll feel more in control of your marketing, less stressed about posting daily, and more connected to the people who actually need what you offer.

And trust me—that is a game-changer.

You’ve been thinking about it, haven’t you? You’ve been eyeing Wordsmith, wondering if now is the time to finally take the leap and make content creation for your business easier than ever. Well, friend, consider this your flashing neon sign: YES. YES, IT IS.

And here’s why you need to act right now—because for a limited time, you can grab full access to Wordsmith for just $9.95/month… forever. Yep, you read that right. No price hikes. No surprises. Just an insanely powerful tool at an insanely affordable price.

But here’s the kicker: This deal vanishes on February 28th. After that? The price is going up, because—brace yourself—Wordsmith 2.0 is coming, and it’s getting a MAJOR upgrade.

What’s Happening on February 28th?

A huge Wordsmith update is dropping! Think of it like your favorite coffee shop announcing a new menu that’s about to change your morning routine forever.

New features, smarter AI, and a sleeker interface designed to help you create content faster, better, and with even more ease. It looks so good. I can’t wait for you to see it!

The price will be increasing, but here’s the good news: If you sign up now, you’re locked in at $9.95/month for life. (Yes, even as we add new features and upgrades. Forever-ever.)

Why Wordsmith 2.0?

Because content creation shouldn’t feel like pulling teeth. For me, writing has always been the heartbeat of running a business—the thing I’ve loved the most. Whether it’s crafting a blog post, sending out a newsletter, or showing up on social media, content has been my way of connecting, building relationships, and making an impact. Most people call it marketing, but I see it as something bigger: a way for entrepreneurs to show up as their true selves, tell their stories, and build communities.

That’s why I built Wordsmith. I wanted to create a tool that helps you show up authentically without spending hours staring at a blank screen. It should feel like having a personal copywriter in your back pocket—ready to whip up on-brand Instagram captions, blog posts, email newsletters, and website copy at the click of a button—so you can focus on what you do best: running your business and making an impact.

Imagine this:
A month’s worth of social media posts, done in minutes, not hours.
An AI assistant trained to write like YOU, not some robotic mess that sounds nothing like your brand.
A content calendar that keeps you organized and consistent (without the stress).
Unlimited access to stock photography, because visuals matter.
The ability to repurpose your content across multiple platforms without sounding repetitive.

No more staring at a blank screen. No more last-minute panic-posting. Just strategic, beautifully written content that connects with your audience and helps you grow your business.

And this is just the beginning. 2025 might be our biggest year yet with everything we have planned.

We’re not rushing the process because we want it to be perfectly made for you—designed with intention, packed with value, and built to help you create content effortlessly. Big things are coming, and I can’t wait for you to be part of it.

Why Now? (Because FOMO is Real, Friend.)

I’ll say it louder for the people in the back: This deal is only available until February 28th. Once the clock strikes midnight, the $9.95 price disappears—and trust me, you don’t want to be kicking yourself for missing out. Those that get locked in, get it for as long as they have an active account.

Let’s be real—$9.95 is less than your favorite latte, and it’s an investment that actually pays you back in saved time, stress-free content, and more visibility for your business.

Ready to Lock in Your Forever Deal?

Click here to grab Wordsmith for $9.95/month before it’s gone!

Trust me, your future self will thank you. 💛

Let’s talk about the powerhouse of marketing that doesn’t get nearly enough credit—Pinterest ads. When I built Wordsmith, I had two goals:

1. To help fellow entrepreneurs show up online and share their stories without the constant struggle of not knowing what to say.
2. To build something without spending my life glued to traditional social media platforms.

Fast forward, and I scaled Wordsmith to over $600K in revenue using two incredibly powerful things: Pinterest ads + my email list. No viral videos, no dancing on Reels, no posting 24/7 to stay relevant. Just a smart, strategic way to get my offer in front of the right people at the right time.

Here’s exactly how I did it—and how you can use Pinterest ads to grow your own business too.

Why Pinterest Ads?

First things first, let’s clear something up: Pinterest isn’t just another social media platform. It’s a visual search engine—meaning that when people are on Pinterest, they’re actively looking for solutions, ideas, and products.

Unlike Instagram or Facebook (where your content disappears in hours), Pinterest content lasts. People can search for and find your pins months—even years—after you post them. And when you pair that with a strong ad strategy, you’re literally getting your business in front of people who are searching for exactly what you have to offer.

That’s why Pinterest ads work so well. They put your brand in front of ready-to-buy customers without the constant content grind.

How I Used Pinterest Ads to Validate My Idea

Before I poured time and energy into building Wordsmith, I wanted to make sure there was actually demand for it. Enter: Pinterest ads.

I started with a simple strategy:

• Created a few pre-written content templates and published them monthly to test the concept.
• Ran a small Pinterest ad campaign targeting keywords that my ideal customers were searching for.
• Tracked conversions to see if people were actually interested in what I was offering.

The result? They ate it up.

That validation was huge. It meant I wasn’t guessing—I knew I had something people wanted. That’s when my husband (who’s a developer) jumped in to help me build Wordsmith exactly the way I had envisioned it. And once we had a solid product? We scaled it even more.

Scaling With Pinterest Ads: The Strategy That Worked

Once I knew Wordsmith was a hit, I doubled down on Pinterest ads and followed a strategy that allowed me to scale to over $600K in revenue. Here’s the exact formula I used:

1. Targeted the Right Keywords

Remember, Pinterest is a search engine—so your ads need to be optimized just like SEO. I focused on:

• Keywords my audience was actively searching for
• Long-tail keywords to get more specific and attract buyers with clear intent.
• Interest-based targeting to reach people who were already engaging with similar content.

2. Created Click-Worthy Pins

Your Pinterest ad creative matters. Unlike social media posts, your ad needs to stand out in a feed full of visuals. I focused on:

• Bold, easy-to-read text overlays that immediately told people what the pin was about.
• Clear, scroll-stopping images that reflected the value of Wordsmith.
• Consistent branding so that my ads looked professional and cohesive.

3. Sent Traffic to a High-Converting Page

I didn’t just send people to a homepage and hope for the best. I made sure my ad traffic went to a conversion-optimized landing page that:

• Clearly explained what Wordsmith was and why it mattered.
• Included strong social proof (testimonials, reviews, results).
• Had an easy-to-follow call-to-action (subscribe, purchase, etc.).

You can see the homepage for Wordsmith HERE.

4. Tracked & Optimized

Once I had tested different ads, I was able to turn off the ones that weren’t performing and run the same ad for over two years without needing to change a thing. I kept an eye on:

• Which ads performed best (so I could scale the winners and turn off the duds).
• What audiences converted the most (so I could refine targeting over time).
• My return on ad spend (ROAS) to make sure I was making more than I was spending.

The more I refined my strategy, the better my results got—and the faster Wordsmith grew.

Why This Works (And How You Can Do It Too)

One of the many reasons I love Pinterest ads so much is because they let you get hyper-specific with your audience targeting. If you know how to choose the right keywords, set up conversion tracking, and focus on the right metrics, you can scale your business in a way that feels sustainable and strategic.

But here’s something I realized early on—so much of the marketing advice I saw online came from experts who were operating at a completely different level. They had massive email lists, established audiences, huge spending budgets, and built-in connections that most small business owners just don’t have when they’re starting out.

When I built Wordsmith, I wanted to do it in a way that would prove it’s possible to scale a business from scratch—without relying on a huge following or existing brand recognition. I wanted to create a strategy that would work for someone who didn’t have thousands of followers or a big email list yet, someone who was just trying to build momentum. And Pinterest ads made that possible.

After hitting over $600K in revenue for Wordsmith, I knew I had to share my formula. So, I put together a 90 minute Pinterest Ad Strategy course that walks you through the exact process I used to:

✅ Set up profitable Pinterest ad campaigns

✅ Target the right audience (so your ads don’t get wasted on the wrong people)

✅ Track conversions and scale effectively

✅ Focus on key metrics that actually matter (instead of getting lost in vanity numbers)

I’ve taken everything I’ve learned—from testing, tweaking, and scaling—and turned it into a step-by-step system to help you get your business in front of an audience that’s ready to buy.

👉 You can check it out here: Pinterest Ad Strategy

If you’re tired of posting on social media and hoping for traction, it might be time to switch things up. Pinterest ads aren’t just another ad platform—they’re a long-term strategy for getting your business in front of the right audience.

Whether you’re just getting started or you’re ready to scale, I know this strategy can work for you—because it’s exactly how I built Wordsmith into a thriving business that has generated over $600K in revenue.

So, what do you say? If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start getting your business in front of people who are actually looking for what you offer, let’s do this together. I’d love to help you make Pinterest ads work for you—because if I can do it, so can you.

Social media burnout is real. If you’ve ever felt like keeping up with Instagram, Facebook, and every other platform is draining the life out of you, I see you. I was right there too. So, I did something drastic—I quit social media for an entire year. You can read all about that HERE.

At first, it felt like a massive risk. What if my business suffered? What if I lost connection with my audience? What if I missed out on opportunities? But here’s the spoiler: My business kept growing, my audience didn’t disappear, and I learned some invaluable lessons along the way.

If you’ve ever thought about stepping away from social media but felt too scared to take the leap, let me share what happened when I finally logged off.

Why I Walked Away

The biggest reason I wanted to step away from social media? It was taking too much from my real life and my business.

As a business owner, it’s easy to believe that if you’re not constantly posting, engaging, and following every new trend, everything will come crashing down. But I had already made some big shifts over the years to rely less on social media—things like growing my email list and focusing on SEO to bring in consistent traffic. And yet, social media still pulled me in.

The more I paid attention, the more I realized I wasn’t using it intentionally. I was spending way more time consuming content than actually creating it. And let’s be real—these platforms are designed to keep you scrolling. I knew I wanted more from life than doomscrolling through other people’s highlight reels.

So, I logged off. No more posting, no more checking notifications, no more endless scrolling. Just real life and real work.

What Happened When I Quit Social Media

To be completely honest, at first, it felt weird. I’d been so used to documenting parts of my life and business online that I had to untrain myself from reaching for my phone. But as the weeks went by, then months, something incredible happened—I felt free.

I doubled down on marketing strategies that actually aligned with who I am. I focused on writing more, improving my email list, and refining my SEO strategy. The pressure to constantly “show up” online disappeared, and in its place, I found a deeper sense of creativity and focus.

And guess what? My business did just fine. It turns out, I never needed social media to keep things running—I just thought I did.

How I Made It Work Without Social Media

The key to stepping away from social media without my business taking a hit? A combination of Pinterest ads and email marketing. These two strategies allowed me to continue bringing in leads, nurturing my audience, and generating revenue without posting a single thing on Instagram or Facebook.

Pinterest Ads: My Secret Weapon

Pinterest has always been a powerhouse for my business, but when I fully stepped away from social media, it became my main driver of traffic and sales. Unlike Instagram, where posts disappear within hours, Pinterest content has longevity. A single pin can bring in traffic for months (or even years!) after it’s posted.

Running Pinterest ads allowed me to scale my reach and consistently drive ideal clients to my offers. Instead of spending hours crafting Instagram captions and stories, I focused on creating high-converting Pinterest graphics and targeting the right audience. And the best part? Once the ads were set up, they worked on autopilot.

I go into more detail on my Pinterest strategy here: The Pinterest Ad Strategy That Made Me Over $600K.

Building and Nurturing My Email List

If Pinterest was how I brought people in, my email list was how I turned them into paying customers. While social media is unpredictable (hello, algorithm changes), my email list was something I owned. I could communicate directly with my audience without fighting for visibility or stressing over engagement rates.

Instead of posting on Instagram, I put my energy into crafting valuable emails that built relationships and drove sales. And the best part? Email marketing isn’t about constant hustle. I created evergreen sequences that welcomed new subscribers, shared valuable content, and led them toward my offers—without me needing to be online 24/7.

What I Learned From a Year Off Social Media

Stepping away from social media for a year taught me so much about running a business on my own terms. Here are my biggest takeaways:

Stepping away can actually make your business stronger. When you’re not constantly chasing trends, you can focus on what really moves the needle.

The Downsides of Leaving Social Media

You don’t have to be everywhere to be successful. You can choose platforms that actually work for you and ditch the ones that don’t.

Long-term strategies (like SEO, Pinterest, and email marketing) are way more sustainable than chasing viral content.

Your audience won’t disappear just because you take a break. If you’ve built a strong foundation, people will still be there when you return.

As much as I loved my time away, I won’t pretend that stepping away from social media was all positive. There were a few things I missed:

• The sense of community. Entrepreneurship can feel lonely, and social media makes it easy to connect with like-minded people.
• Sharing my work. I genuinely love creating and sharing, and social media is a great way to showcase what I’m working on.
• The energy of it all. It’s like working in a coffee shop—sometimes the background buzz can be motivating.

By the end of the year, I realized that while I don’t need social media to run a successful business, I do enjoy using it in small, intentional ways.

How I’m Planning On Using Social Media Differently Now

So, am I back? Kind of. But with way stronger boundaries.

• I no longer feel the need to post daily or keep up with every trend.
• I focus on using social media as a tool, not a requirement.
• I create content I enjoy (like writing!) instead of forcing myself into formats that feel unnatural.
• I remind myself that my business doesn’t depend on an algorithm—it depends on me.

Now, when I show up on social media, it’s because I want to, not because I feel like I have to.

What You Can Learn From My Year Off

If social media feels overwhelming, just know this—you don’t have to be on it 24/7 to grow your business. There are other ways to market, connect, and succeed. Whether you take a full break or simply set better boundaries, I hope my experience shows you that it’s okay to step back.

Social media is a tool, not the whole strategy. And sometimes, the best thing you can do for your business (and your sanity) is to unplug, refocus, and remind yourself that you are the most important part of your success—not an app.

So, what does a better relationship with social media actually look like? Maybe it means taking a full break to reset. Maybe it looks like setting time limits, unfollowing accounts that drain you, or creating a posting schedule that feels sustainable. Or maybe it’s about shifting your focus entirely—looking at your business and figuring out what actually moves the needle instead of posting and hoping something goes viral.

Ask yourself: What brings in the most clients? Where do my customers actually come from? What marketing strategies feel good to me? Once you get clear on that, you can focus your energy there instead of feeling like you have to be everywhere online.

At the end of the day, social media should work for you—not the other way around. And trust me, your business will be just fine.