Let’s be real—taking time off when you work for yourself sounds dreamy… until you actually try to do it. You start picturing relaxing mornings, time with your family, and finally soaking in the life you’ve worked so hard to build. But then the to-do list hits. The unanswered emails. The client needs. The content calendar. And suddenly, your “vacation” starts looking a lot like working from a different time zone.

I’ve felt that tension before. But this summer? I’m doing things differently.

We’re packing up our family of six and heading to Europe—Germany (where I was born and raised), Switzerland, and Italy—for two full weeks. It’s not a work trip. It’s not a business retreat. It’s an actual vacation with my husband and all four of our kids. And I’m doing everything I can right now to make sure I can actually be present while we’re there.

If you’ve ever struggled to truly unplug as an entrepreneur, or if you’re planning your own time off soon, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I’m preparing for a break that’s both peaceful and productive.

Planning Ahead: The Secret to Truly Enjoying Time Off

Every December, I sit down and plan out my entire year. It’s a ritual I look forward to, and it helps me approach my business with intention rather than urgency.

Because of that, I already know what work needs to happen week by week—and when we finalized our trip, I immediately started shifting my workload. Instead of trying to cram everything in last-minute, I’ve been slowly building the two weeks of work I’d normally do into the month prior.

Yes, it’s a little more effort upfront. But it’s so worth it when you can walk into vacation with your shoulders relaxed instead of hunched over your laptop.

Batching Content and Pre-Scheduling to Stay Visible

One of my biggest strategies? Pre-scheduling content in advance so my business stays consistent while I’m offline.

I’ve been batching blog posts, writing newsletters, and loading them into my scheduler so they go out while I’m away. That way, everything keeps flowing—without me needing to lift a finger or send one last email from the airport lounge.

It’s not about being everywhere at once. It’s about being strategic with your time. Do the work early, so you can rest when it really counts.

Letting Social Media Be Real Life (Not Just Business)

When it comes to social, I’m not overthinking it.

There’s no big campaign or content strategy for my trip. I’ll simply be sharing real-life moments—photos from Germany, scenes from the mountains in Switzerland, little updates from our family adventures.

I think sometimes we forget that people want to see the human behind the brand. They don’t expect you to be in launch mode 24/7. Sometimes, letting them in on the behind-the-scenes of your life builds more connection than any curated post ever could.

Unplugging Fully: Why I’m Saying No to Work While Away

Here’s the part I’m most excited about—and the one that takes the most discipline: I’m unplugging.

No emails. No Slack. No quick “one last thing” moments that pull me out of the present.

This trip is incredibly meaningful to me. Not just because it’s Europe (though I’ll never say no to fresh pasta and an Alps view), but because it’s deeply personal. I haven’t been back to Germany in years. My mother’s entire side of the family still lives there, and bringing my husband and all four of our kids to experience that part of my story is something I’ve dreamed about for a long time.

If I’m taking time off, I want to actually be off. I want to soak up every minute. And that means saying a big, brave no to work while I’m gone.

Helpful Tips for Business Owners Planning a Break

Want to take your own unplugged vacation? Here are a few extra tips that have helped me:

• Use a project management tool (Airtable is my go to) to track what needs to get done before you leave.
• Set up an autoresponder that shares helpful links or lets people know when you’ll be back.
• Communicate early with any clients or team members, so there are no surprises.
• Test your systems—if you automate anything, make sure it’s running smoothly before you go.
• Ask yourself “what would really happen if this didn’t get done?” You might find the answer is… absolutely nothing.

One of the things I love most about working for myself is the freedom I have to create a schedule that works for me.

Over the years, we’ve traveled full-time, spent years living in Hawaii, and now that we’re settled in New England, this trip feels like a new kind of dream. A chance to not just build a life—but live it.

And honestly? I haven’t fully unplugged like this in a long, long time. It feels good to work toward rest. To plan for space. To trust my business enough to let it run without me for a while.

If you’ve been stuck in hustle mode, maybe this is your reminder that time off isn’t just okay—it’s essential. You built this life for a reason. Don’t forget to enjoy it.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Have a trip coming up? Or maybe you’re dreaming of more time off but unsure how to make it happen? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop a comment below or come say hi on Instagram @elenaringeisen—I’ll be sharing some sweet family moments from Europe, and I’d love to cheer you on, too.

Here’s to building a business that gives you life—not one that drains it.

If you’re running a small business, you’ve probably felt the pressure to be everywhere—Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Reels, Stories, emails, DMs… it’s a lot. Especially when all you really want is to grow your business, reach the right people, and not feel glued to your phone.

That’s why I love Pinterest.

Not as a place to post pretty things just for the sake of it—but as a quiet powerhouse that works in the background of my business. It brings in new people, helps me grow my email list, and drives actual sales… all without needing a huge budget or daily content creation.

If you’ve ever wondered if Pinterest ads could work for you, I want to show you exactly why I think this platform is so perfect for small businesses like ours.

Let’s start with something I want you to really think about…

What would your business feel like if your marketing didn’t need you every single day?

What would change if new people could discover what you do—without you constantly posting, replying, and showing up on camera?

What if your email list grew, your sales trickled in, and your content kept working for you… while you rested, created, or lived your life outside the screen?

If you’re a small business owner who’s tired of feeling like your growth depends on how much energy you have left that day, I want to introduce you to one of the most underrated platforms out there: Pinterest.

This isn’t about the pretty mood boards you used in 2012 or saving recipes you never make (though I still do that). I’m talking about Pinterest as a quiet workhorse—a tool that helps your business grow sustainably, affordably, and in a way that actually fits your life.

I’ve used Pinterest ads to grow my email list, increase sales, and bring in a steady stream of traffic to my site—all without spending thousands or being glued to my phone.

Here’s what we’re walking through today:

• Why Pinterest isn’t social media—and why that matters
• How Pinterest ads work (and why they don’t require a huge budget)
• What makes Pinterest users different—and how that works in your favor
• Why Pinterest is perfect for growing your email list
• What you don’t need to make it work (hint: not a designer!)
• And my honest reflections on why Pinterest ads feel so aligned with the way I want to run my business

By the end of this post, I hope you feel more spacious, more empowered, and more supported to try a marketing strategy that doesn’t just demand from you—but gives something back.

Let’s dive in.

Pinterest isn’t social media—it’s a search engine

This is the biggest mindset shift: Pinterest isn’t like Instagram or TikTok. It’s not about trends or followers. It’s a search engine. People go there with purpose—looking for ideas, solutions, inspiration, or products.

That means your content doesn’t get buried after 24 hours. Pins have a long shelf life, especially if you’re using Pinterest ads to get them in front of your ideal audience sooner.

If you’ve ever wanted your content to keep working for you long after you post it—this is where that happens.

You don’t need a big budget to see results

You can start running Pinterest ads for as little as $5–$10/day. And unlike other platforms that eat up your budget fast, Pinterest tends to be more efficient because of how people use it.

Most Pinterest users are already in the mindset to plan, buy, and take action. They’re not just scrolling. They’re searching. That makes it easier to reach people who are already looking for what you offer.

Even a small budget can go a long way when it’s paired with a clear message and a strong visual.

Pinterest users are in buying mode

Pinterest has something really special going for it: people trust what they find there. And they use it when they’re ready to do something.

So if you’re thinking, “But no one’s ever heard of my brand”—that’s actually an advantage here. Over 90% of Pinterest searches are unbranded, which means people are open to discovering new products and businesses. Like yours.

It’s one of the few places online where small businesses can show up right next to big-name brands—and actually compete.

It’s low-maintenance marketing that keeps working

This is one of my favorite things about Pinterest ads: once you set them up, they keep working.

You can pre-schedule your content. You don’t have to post every day. You don’t have to be “on” all the time. You can even take a break (hello, vacation) and know that your content is still driving traffic and conversions in the background.

If you’re building a business with long-term sustainability in mind, Pinterest fits in beautifully.

Pinterest helps grow your email list (not just your engagement)

One of my biggest priorities is always growing my email list—because that’s something I own. Pinterest makes that easy.

When someone clicks on your pin, they’re taken directly to your website, not kept inside an app. That gives you a chance to connect with them beyond a one-time visit—whether that’s through a lead magnet, a freebie, or simply a warm welcome to your world.

It’s a calm, intentional way to grow—without the daily grind of trying to beat an algorithm.

You don’t have to be a designer to make great pins

I know design can feel overwhelming, but Pinterest doesn’t require you to be fancy. It just needs to be clear.

Use clean graphics, easy-to-read text, and imagery that helps your audience immediately understand what your content or offer is about. Tools like Canva (or Pinterest templates) make this incredibly easy, even if design isn’t your thing.

It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being helpful.

I know it can feel like you need to be a certain size or have a certain following before paid ads are “worth it.” But that’s the beauty of Pinterest—it works because it’s not dependent on how many people already know you.

If you’re clear on who you’re trying to reach and how you can help them, Pinterest is a space where you can quietly (and consistently) show up, offer value, and grow—without burning out or blowing your budget.

Want to learn how to run Pinterest ads that actually work?

If you’re curious about setting up Pinterest ads but feel a little overwhelmed, I put together something just for you.

It’s a 90-minute Pinterest Ads Tutorial that walks you through everything—from creating your first campaign, to writing great pin copy, to choosing the right settings without wasting money.

You can grab the tutorial here and start running your first ad today.

You don’t need a marketing team or a $1,000/month ad budget. You just need a plan—and this is a great place to start.

I can still remember the feeling—packing up my gear on a Friday night, knowing I’d be spending yet another weekend photographing other families while missing time with my own. At the time, I was fully booked with motherhood sessions—those beautiful, emotional, joy-filled shoots with mamas and their babies. While I genuinely loved capturing those sweet connections and helping other mothers freeze time in such a fleeting season, there was always a quiet ache in my chest.

Because while I was giving my clients memories they’d cherish forever, I was missing out on my own.

I wasn’t there for lazy Saturday mornings in pajamas, or spontaneous afternoon walks with my kids. I was spending weekends creating for others, while watching my own time with my family slip by in the margins.

And what made it harder? I knew that if I stopped shooting—even for a weekend—I wasn’t just pressing pause on work. I was pausing my entire income.

That was the moment it clicked: I needed to build a business that could run with me and for me—even when I wasn’t actively working.

The Limitations of Service-Based Business (Even the Ones You Love)

Service-based businesses can be beautiful. They’re often built on heart and hard work. They let us share our gifts in deeply personal ways. But there’s an unspoken truth that not enough of us talk about: they have a cap. A limit.

There are only so many hours in a day. And as one person, there’s only so much you can do. Your energy becomes the currency. And over time, that becomes exhausting.

I reached a point where I realized I didn’t want to hustle for every dollar anymore. I didn’t want to build a business that only paid me when I showed up. I wanted freedom. I wanted flexibility. I wanted to make income even on the days I was fully in mom mode, snuggling my kids on the couch.

My First Step Into Passive Income (It Wasn’t Fancy)

It started small—almost by accident. I began sharing my editing tools with other photographers. I packaged up my presets (you know, those dreamy film-inspired edits that I love) and offered them as digital downloads.

And then something amazing happened.

Sales started coming in while I was sleeping. Or while I was at the park with my kids. Or while I was working with a client on something completely unrelated.

That shift was the beginning of something much bigger. It was proof that I could build something once—and have it continue to work for me long after I hit publish.

From One Product to Multiple Streams

After that first taste of passive income, I was hooked—but not in the “let’s build an empire” kind of way. It was more about curiosity. I started asking:
What else can I create that helps others, solves a problem, and doesn’t require me to be tied to my laptop 24/7?

I created courses, templates, guides, and most recently, Wordsmith—a monthly digital content membership designed to help business owners show up online with ease. That became a whole new stream of recurring monthly revenue. Not only was it passive, it was purposeful.

And suddenly, my business didn’t feel like a treadmill anymore. It felt like a garden. One I could water, nurture, and watch grow—even if I wasn’t there every single second.

Scaling Without Burnout

The best part of building passive income into your business isn’t just the money (though that part is wonderful, too). It’s the margin it gives you.

It’s the way you can finally exhale.

I no longer have to scramble during launch week. I don’t have to fill my calendar to pay the bills. I get to build, create, dream—and still be present at home. I’ve grown my business year after year without sacrificing the things that matter most to me.

And I’ve been able to do that by focusing on the parts of my business I could automate, scale, and sustain.

So, What Is Passive Income (Really)?

Let’s clear something up—passive income doesn’t mean no work. It means front-loading the work. You create something once (a digital product, a course, a membership, a resource, a software) and you set up systems so it continues to work in the background.

There’s setup. There’s testing. There’s refinement.

But once it’s running? It frees you up to do more of what you love—without the constant grind.

Here are a few examples of passive income that work beautifully for service-based businesses:

• Digital products: templates, guides, checklists, presets, etc.
• Online courses: teach your process, share your knowledge.
• Memberships or subscriptions: recurring income that adds up fast.
• Affiliate marketing: recommend tools and products you love.
• Printables or downloads: easy-to-make, high-value assets.
• Software & Platforms: If you know how to code this is such a perfect skill for generating passive income.

The options are endless—but the mindset shift is what really matters. You don’t have to trade hours for dollars forever.

Why It Matters More Than Ever (Especially for Moms)

As a mom of four, I’ve learned to value time more than anything. My business has to fit into my life, not the other way around. I want to build something that allows me to be there for all our homeschool lessons, the sick days, the slow mornings.

That’s the real power of passive income—it gives you choices.

I get to decide how I spend my time. I get to take on client work because I want to, not because I have to.

I get to run a business that doesn’t burn me out.

My Advice? Start Where You Are

If you’re reading this and thinking, “This sounds amazing, but where do I even start?”—I’ve got you.

Ask yourself:

• What do people ask me for help with all the time?
• What do I already have (a process, a tool, a system) that others would pay for?
• What’s something I could package and sell digitally?

Start with your strengths. Build something small. Get it out there.

And remember—your first product doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be real and helpful.

Building businesses around passive income hasn’t just changed my revenue—it’s changed my life. It’s given me space, peace, freedom, and flexibility. It’s allowed me to grow something meaningful without burning out.

And that’s what I want for you, too.

So if you’ve been hustling in a service-based business and wondering if there’s a different way… let this be your sign to explore what’s possible. Figure out a way to add passive income to your current business.

You don’t have to do it all the hard way. You can build something beautiful that works for you.

I know what it feels like to pour your heart into your business—sleeves rolled up, coffee in hand, dreaming big—but still wondering how you’re supposed to actually get eyes on your product or service. There are a million strategies out there. Everyone has their “secret formula.” And with so many voices telling you to do this or try that, it’s easy to feel like you’re spinning your wheels.

I’ve been there.

And that’s exactly why I want to talk to you about one platform that completely changed how I market my business—and brought in real results without eating up my entire week or sanity.

Yes, I’m talking about Pinterest ads.

And before you write them off as just pretty pictures or a DIY haven (though we do love a good farmhouse table makeover), let me tell you: Pinterest ads are one of the best-kept secrets in digital marketing.

Let’s unpack it.

So… Are Pinterest Ads Worth It?

Short answer: YES.
Long answer: Still yes, but let me show you why.

Unlike Facebook or Instagram—where your ad is trying to interrupt someone’s scroll—Pinterest is where people go when they’re actively searching for ideas, inspiration, or solutions. They’re already in decision-making mode. So instead of fighting for attention, your ad can show up exactly when someone is looking for what you offer.

It’s like having a storefront on Main Street and placing your best-selling product right in the window display—right when the perfect customer walks by.

Why Pinterest Ads Work (Even If You’re Brand New)

What makes Pinterest ads so powerful is how they act more like a search engine than a social feed.

Think about it: People come to Pinterest to plan weddings, design living rooms, start businesses, and yes—shop. They’re already dreaming, already visualizing, already saving ideas for what they want. That means when your ad pops up in a relevant search, you’re meeting your ideal client mid-dream. (Which, let’s be honest, is the best time to show up.)

You don’t need a massive following.
You don’t need to be an influencer.
You just need to have something helpful, beautiful, or inspiring—and a clear idea of who it’s for.

When I launched my content platform, Wordsmith, I wanted to do something different. I didn’t want to rely on reels or TikToks or fight an algorithm that changed every five seconds. I wanted a sustainable way to reach the right people—women like you who are growing businesses and need tools that actually help.

So, I ran Pinterest ads.
And friend, they worked.

The Results I’ve Had With Pinterest Ads

Let’s talk numbers for a second. I’ve used Pinterest ads to help scale one of my businesses (Wordsmith) to over $600,000 in revenue—without spending hours online every day.

The ROI from Pinterest ads has consistently outperformed other platforms for me, and the best part? The pins continue to work for you long after the ad ends. That’s evergreen visibility.

How Pinterest Ads Are Different

Let me break it down real quick:

• Pinterest = Discovery.
  People go there to find things. This is huge because you’re not interrupting their feed—you’re adding to their vision.
• Ads Blend In Naturally.
  A promoted pin looks like any other pin, which means it doesn’t feel pushy or salesy. It feels helpful. Relevant. Wanted.
• Your Results Grow Over Time.
  Even when you stop paying, those pins can keep getting clicks. (Yes, really.)

Not Sure What to Promote First? Start Here.

If you’re brand new to running ads, I always recommend starting with your best-sellers. Something that’s already proven to sell.

One of the biggest mistakes I see is people trying to launch a brand new offer through ads before it’s even been tested. But if something is already working organically—even just a little—it’s a great candidate for a paid ad.

Let your ads do the heavy lifting after you’ve seen that little spark. That’s when it’s worth pouring some gas on the fire.

And If You’re Thinking, “This Sounds Great, But I’m Overwhelmed…”

You’re not alone.

That’s actually why I created my Pinterest Ad Strategy course.
So many of my fellow business friends kept asking me: How do you actually set these up? How do you know who to target? What should the pins look like? I’ve even had friends over to watch me in the office as I walk them thorugh the whole process.

So I pulled back the curtain and recorded exactly how I set up my own campaigns—from strategy to targeting to tracking results.

And I kept it under 90 minutes because I know your time is precious. You don’t need a 10-hour course. You need a system that works.

👉 You can check it out here

If you’ve been looking for a way to grow your business that doesn’t require posting constantly or trying to chase trends, Pinterest ads might be exactly what you need.

They’re gentle. They’re powerful. And they’re perfect for purpose-driven business owners who want to build something sustainable.

So yes, Pinterest ads are worth it.

Not just because they work, but because they work in a way that aligns with how you want to build your business.

Slow, steady, smart.

That’s the kind of growth I’m here for.

There’s something beautiful about sitting down and writing a blog post. Not for likes. Not for the algorithm. But because you actually have something to say. Something you’ve learned. Something that could help someone else.

That’s how I’ve always approached blogging.

Over the years, I’ve come to realize just how much I enjoy writing long-form content. Unlike social media, where I always struggle to keep it short and snappy, long-form content gives me space. Space to think, to explain, to reflect. To share the lessons I’ve learned in building and running a passion-led business—and the ones I’ve learned the hard way.

Pair that with my love for sharing what’s worked (or totally failed) in my own journey, and blogging became my favorite way to show up online. The kind of marketing that feels like storytelling. The kind that lets me connect with the right people for all the right reasons.

But I get it—there’s a lot of noise out there these days.

“Is blogging dead?”

I’ve heard that question more times than I can count. And here’s the truth: it depends on how you define blogging.

If you’re thinking of blogging as writing a post, sharing a few photos, and hoping someone stumbles across it… yeah, that kind of blogging might be on its way out.

But if you’re creating blog content that speaks directly to your ideal client? That answers their questions? That shows them you get what they’re going through and have a solution that can help?

Then blogging is alive and thriving. I think it will continue that way for a long time.

The Power of Evergreen Content

What I love about blogging is that it keeps working long after you hit publish.

A post I wrote 10 years ago still brings in traffic today. A blog that answers a specific question can rank in search results for years. And if you’re someone who wants to build a brand that lasts, blogging is one of the smartest marketing tools you have.

Unlike social media posts that disappear in 24 hours or get buried in the scroll, blogs stick around. They become part of your business’s foundation. They’re searchable. They’re shareable. And they’re yours.

The Rise of AI (and Why Blogging Still Matters More Than Ever)

Here’s something I’ve been thinking about a lot lately:

With AI tools becoming more integrated into how people search for and discover information, your blog content matters more than ever.

Why?

Because the content you create helps teach those tools what your business is all about.

Most people don’t realize this, but AI platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, and others are trained on public content—including blogs.

That means every well-written blog post, every thoughtful article, every long-form guide you put out into the world contributes to how AI understands and recommends information in the future.

So while traditional blogging might feel like a slow burn, the truth is, it’s one of the best long-term plays you can make. You’re not just building traffic or trust with your human audience—you’re shaping your brand’s presence in the digital knowledge space.

And if, like me, you talk a lot about sustainable marketing strategies and running a passion-led business, that content becomes part of a much bigger ecosystem. One where people (and AI) are constantly seeking the most helpful, relevant, and human answers.

So yes—blogging still matters. In fact, it might matter even more now.

How I Use Blogging in My Own Strategy

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I’m big on building a content funnel that works for you—not one that runs you ragged.

Here’s how I do it:

1. I start with long-form content — always. That’s where I can be the most helpful and detailed.
2. That content goes on my blog, which brings in traffic through SEO for years and years.
3. Then I create Pinterest pins to promote those blog posts (because Pinterest = search engine = long-term traffic too).
4. Next, I choose a few pieces to turn into newsletters for my audience.
5. Finally, I pull quotes and insights to share on social media. (I don’t always do this, as I have moved away from using social media so much).

Instead of making social media the main event, it becomes the last step. A sprinkle on top.

Want to Start Blogging Again (or for the First Time)?

Here’s what I’d say: Start small. Start simple.

Pick a topic you care about. Answer a question your ideal client keeps asking. Tell a story. Share a tip. Talk about something you’ve learned.

Let your blog be a place where your voice doesn’t have to be edited down to a reel or a caption. Where you can teach, connect, and show up fully.

And if you need help? That’s exactly why I built Wordsmith.

Inside the platform, you’ll find hundreds of pre-written blog ideas, categorized by niche and topic. You can generate a full-length blog post in minutes—with your brand voice baked in. Whether you love writing or dread it, Wordsmith helps you create content that feels like you.

It’s one of my favorite ways to help business owners simplify their marketing—and actually enjoy it again.

Want to give it a try? You can test it out with a free 7-day trial. Try Wordsmith here

Let’s talk about Pinterest ads—the not-so-secret weapon I’ve used to quietly and consistently scale my business without relying on algorithms or going viral. I know paid ads can feel a little intimidating (or a lot), especially if you’ve never dipped your toes into that world before. I used to feel the same way. Ads felt like something reserved for “big” businesses with teams and fancy strategies… until I realized Pinterest was playing by completely different rules.

If you’re new to Pinterest ads—or maybe you’ve heard a whisper about them and want to see what the buzz is really about—this post is for you. I’m going to walk you through exactly how Pinterest ads work, why they’re different from social media ads, and how they could be the sustainable traffic-driving, sales-generating strategy you’ve been looking for.

Let’s dive in.

What Makes Pinterest Ads So Different?

Here’s the thing most people don’t realize: Pinterest isn’t a social media platform—it’s a search engine.

Let that sink in for a second.

While Instagram and Facebook are built for interaction and connection, Pinterest is built for discovery. People come to Pinterest not to scroll for entertainment, but to find things.

To plan. To dream. To search for inspiration or a solution.

And that mindset changes everything when it comes to advertising.

Think of it like this: Pinterest is where people go with intention.

They’re already searching for ideas—recipes, outfit inspiration, home design, content strategies, wedding decor, business tips… and yes, even the exact products and services you offer.

So when your ad shows up on Pinterest, it doesn’t interrupt someone’s day like an Instagram ad might. Instead, it joins the journey they’re already on. It becomes part of their vision board. And that’s powerful.

So… How Do Pinterest Ads Actually Work?

Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.

When you run a Pinterest ad, you’re essentially paying for your pin (a visual post) to show up in front of people who are searching for content like yours. Here’s what that process looks like:

1. Create a Pin (Ad Image or Video)

This is the creative part! You’ll upload an image or video—ideally something that’s scroll-stopping, helpful, and aligned with your brand. You can add a short headline and a link to your website, product, service, or blog post.

2. Choose Your Audience (AKA Targeting)

Here’s where the magic happens. Pinterest allows you to target based on keywords—the search terms your dream customer is typing in. This is what sets it apart from most social platforms. You can also target people who have:

• Interacted with your website
• Engaged with your pins
• Or fit certain interests, locations, or demographics

You’re putting your content exactly where people are looking for it.

3. Set Your Budget

You get to decide how much you want to spend. Seriously—you can start with just $5 a day and see what works. Once you start seeing results, it’s easy to scale up. (I’ve had days where I spent $11 and made over $400. Wild, right?)

4. Track & Optimize

Pinterest gives you a dashboard where you can see how your ads are performing. Which pins are getting clicks? Which ones are converting? You can pause, adjust, or duplicate ads based on what’s working. It’s like having your own little marketing lab.

Why Pinterest Ads Work So Well (Especially for Small Businesses)

I’ve run ads on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest—and here’s why Pinterest continues to win in my book:

• Longevity: Pinterest pins last. Even after you stop paying for an ad, that pin continues to live on the platform and gain organic traction.
• Search Intent: You’re targeting people actively looking for your offer.
• Less Saturation: Pinterest ads are still underutilized, which means your competition is probably sleeping on this.
• Budget-Friendly: You can start small and scale based on what’s converting.
• Perfect for Evergreen Offers: Courses, memberships, digital products, and even services with strong value can thrive here.

My Journey with Pinterest Ads

When I started using Pinterest ads, I was honestly just testing the waters. I uploaded a few prewritten captions I had sitting on my laptop and ran a small ad to see if anyone would bite. Spoiler: they did.

That one test led to building a platform called Wordsmith—my all-in-one content creation tool for business owners who want done-for-you strategy, writing prompts, and personalized support to show up online.

And yes, Pinterest ads helped scale Wordsmith to over $600,000 in revenue (without posting on social media every day).

I realized I had found a way to build something meaningful—without chasing algorithms or needing to be constantly “on.”

So… Where Should You Start?

If you’ve been curious about Pinterest ads, here’s my honest opinion: they’re one of the best places to start if you’ve never run an ad before. Why? Because:

• You’re placing your ad in front of people already searching for what you offer
• It doesn’t require a big budget
• You’re not dependent on having a huge social media following

And if you’re wondering what you should promote first, I always recommend starting with your best-selling offer—not something new or untested. Promote what already works.

Want Me to Show You How to Set It Up?

So many of my business friends were asking how I ran my Pinterest ads that I decided to record the entire process—from choosing the creative to targeting, tracking, and optimizing. I walk you through the exact steps I take to build ads that convert—and I kept it under 90 minutes because I know your time is precious.

If you’re ready to learn how to run your own ads, but want someone to actually show you the behind-the-scenes—this is for you.

👉 Grab the Pinterest Ad Strategy here

Running Pinterest ads changed everything for me. It gave me a way to grow without burning out. A way to scale without needing to show up online every single day. A way to connect with people who were already searching for what I offer.

And maybe, it’ll do the same for you.

For the last several years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping over 12,000 passionate business owners with their content—whether through one-on-one client work or through Wordsmith, the platform I built from the ground up to help entrepreneurs like you show up and share what they do in a way that actually connects.

And here’s the truth: you can learn a lot when you’ve been behind the curtain that many times.

Whether it’s writing a single Instagram post or mapping out a full-blown yearly strategy, you start to see patterns. You start to see what works and what doesn’t. You start to see the difference between content that fills space and content that moves people.

You also start to see where entrepreneurs get stuck—and friend, it’s usually not because they don’t care enough. It’s usually because they’re wearing too many hats and trying to juggle everything on their own.

So today, I want to share a few lessons I’ve learned from writing content for hundreds (okay, thousands) of businesses—big and small, scrappy and seasoned, across nearly every industry you can imagine.

And more importantly, I want to tell you how all of that wisdom has been poured into Wordsmith—so that you can finally create content like a pro, even if you’re doing it all yourself.

Lesson #1: Great Content Isn’t Just Pretty Words

You’d be surprised how many people think great content means perfect grammar, the right buzzwords, or some clever hook.

But the best-performing content I’ve ever written? It’s not the one that sounds the fanciest. It’s the one that sounds like you.

Real connection comes from storytelling. From owning your voice and speaking directly to the person you want to help.

When I’m writing content—whether it’s for one of my premium clients (those are my full-service, high-touch marketing strategy clients)—or whether I’m crafting content for Wordsmith, I’m not trying to write like a copywriting robot.

I’m writing like a real person who understands the brand, the voice, the mission, and the heart behind it.

Because that’s what converts. Not the flash, but the feeling.

Lesson #2: The Most Ignored Content Is Often the Most Important

Want to know what type of content gets skipped the most?

It’s not the reels or the captions or the carousels. It’s the emails. The blog posts. The long-form content that feels like “too much work.”

But that’s also the content that does the heavy lifting in the long run.

Blog posts bring in organic traffic. Newsletters build real relationships. Strategic content that lives beyond 24 hours? That’s the stuff that creates sustainability.

I’ve seen it over and over again—people pour all their energy into social media, only to feel like they’re on a content treadmill. The real magic happens when you create content that lasts.

Which is why Wordsmith was built to support more than just social media captions. It’s built to help you plan out your blog, your email list, your SEO content, and your long-term strategy—so you’re not just showing up, you’re showing up smart.

Lesson #3: People Click (and Buy) When They Feel Understood

You want the secret to content that converts?

It’s empathy.

When people feel seen, they trust you. When they trust you, they listen. And when they listen? That’s when the magic happens. That’s when they buy.

The most successful content I’ve written hasn’t been the boldest, trendiest, or most “viral-worthy.” It’s been the content that reflects someone’s inner thoughts back to them in a way that feels safe and honest and hopeful.

So when I created Wordsmith, I didn’t want it to sound like AI wrote it. I wanted it to sound like you. Like someone who knows exactly what their audience is going through and can meet them there with the right words.

Because when your content feels personal, it is powerful.

Lesson #4: You Don’t Have to Do It All Alone

Let me be honest for a second: most of the people I work with—especially my premium clients—are really good at what they do.

They’re photographers, coaches, wellness practitioners, designers, artists, and educators. They’ve built businesses that are so aligned with their purpose…

But almost every single one of them has told me some version of this:

“I just don’t know what to say online.”

“I want to show up more, but content takes so much energy.”

“I don’t have the time to write something meaningful every single day.”

“I just want to focus on the thing I love, and let you handle all the content.”

And that’s where I get to come in. That’s where Wordsmith comes in.

Because you don’t need to outsource your entire brand voice to a copywriter. And you don’t need to keep guessing what to post each week.

You just need a clear strategy, a little support, and a tool that helps you put your ideas into words that actually work.

What Makes Wordsmith Different?

It’s not just a tool—it’s a system, built from the heart.

Wordsmith is where all these lessons I’ve learned over years of writing and refining and testing content strategies come to life. It’s filled with real prompts, real examples, and done-for-you content that feels like you wrote it on your best day.

And the best part? It works for any kind of business because it focuses on connection first.

You don’t need to sound like everyone else. You just need to sound like you, consistently.

If you’ve ever wished someone could just swoop in, read your mind, and write the words you meant to say… that’s what Wordsmith is for.

We’ve had over 12,000 business owners sign up so far—and I built it for people just like you.

You can test it all out with a free 7-day trial, and see exactly how easy it is to create content that feels aligned, strategic, and true to you.

Try Wordsmith for Free →

You’ve got something amazing to share. Let’s help you say it—beautifully.

Want Me to Handle It For You?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or simply ready to hand over your content and marketing strategy to someone who gets it—I’ve got you.

Every year, I take on a very small number of private clients for full-service content and marketing support. Think: your content planned, written, and executed by someone who’s not only a writer and strategist, but a business owner who’s walked this road herself—multiple times.

You wouldn’t just be hiring someone who knows how to write content or build a plan… you’d be hiring someone who’s built and grown her own businesses from the ground up. Someone who understands the demands, the decisions, the juggling act—because she’s living it too.

I’ll bring the exact strategies, proven workflows, and sustainable systems I’ve used to grow my own brands (including Wordsmith) to your business. You’ll get content rooted in SEO, a long-form-first approach, and a plan that makes marketing feel manageable again.

If that kind of partnership sounds like what you need, reach out. I only take on a few of these projects each year—and only when it feels like the right fit on both sides.

For years, I felt like I was doing it all wrong. Every business coach, every article, every well-meaning voice seemed to echo the same message: Pick one thing. Stick with it. Find your niche. Stay in your lane. But that never felt right to me. I wasn’t made to stay in one lane.

I love having my hands in different things. I thrive on variety. I feel most alive when I’m creating, experimenting, building something new. And honestly, that’s never held me back—it’s what’s kept me going.

Even now, after all these years of working for myself, I’ve worn a dozen different hats: photographer, digital product creator, tech founder, CRM builder (that was acquired!), and now, the founder of a content creation platform that supports other business owners.

None of those things feel random to me.

They all feel connected, like threads woven into the same story.

There’s this myth that if you don’t choose one thing, you won’t be successful. That having multiple passions means you’re distracted, scattered, or unclear. But I’ve found the opposite to be true.

Having different passions has allowed me to stay connected to my business in a way that feels fresh and fulfilling. When one area starts to feel heavy or routine, I can switch gears and pour into something else that lights me up. I don’t box myself in—and because of that, I never feel stuck.

I didn’t build one business. I built a life that supports the work I love doing—even when that work changes.

If you’re someone who has a lot of interests, a lot of ideas, a lot of energy for different things, I want you to know there’s nothing wrong with you. You don’t have to shrink to fit into someone else’s business blueprint.

You don’t have to follow a rigid path to be successful. You don’t have to build a brand that only tells one story. You get to be all of who you are.

That doesn’t mean throwing spaghetti at the wall or chasing shiny things for the sake of it. It means giving yourself permission to explore the intersections of your talents. To follow your curiosity. To listen when your heart says, “this matters to me.”

Because when your business grows from that place—from passion, from purpose, from truth—it resonates. People feel it.

And they’re drawn to you not because you fit in a box, but because you don’t.

One of the best gifts of running your own business is the freedom to evolve. You don’t have to be who you were five years ago. You don’t have to keep offering something that no longer lights you up. You’re allowed to shift, pivot, grow, expand.

I don’t know exactly what I’ll be doing ten years from now. But I do know I’ll still be listening to that inner pull—the part of me that gets excited about new ideas and wants to build something meaningful.

Because this way of living and working—where I get to follow my passions, trust my instincts, and shape my business around the life I want—this is my dream.

And if that’s the wrong way to do business? Then I don’t want to be right.

So here’s your permission slip: You’re allowed to be multipassionate. You’re allowed to follow joy. You’re allowed to do business differently.

You’re not all over the place.

You’re building something beautiful.

Exactly the way you’re meant to.

I used to think burnout was just part of the job. Back in my early “girl boss” days, I thrived on late nights and weekend work marathons. I chased deadlines like gold stars. I believed that the more I did, the more I hustled, the more “successful” I’d become. And while that season taught me a lot, it also led me to a version of myself that felt stretched thin, disconnected, and constantly behind.

It took time—years, honestly—to unlearn that. To understand that rest isn’t a reward for hard work; it’s a vital part of doing it well.

These days, I’ve rewritten the rules. I’ve gotten really clear on what matters most. My kids always come first. Work comes second. And everything I build, every decision I make in my business, is rooted in that order of priority.

I’ve spent the last 16 years building a business that allows me to be home with them full time. To homeschool. To create a rhythm for our life that feels peaceful and fulfilling. But it hasn’t come without challenges. I had to learn to say no. To honor my limits. To let go of the guilt that used to creep in when I chose slow mornings or unplugged weekends.

I’ve chosen to move intentionally through life instead of rushing through it.

And the truth is, I’m not here to compete. I’m not chasing the next big thing. I’m not trying to scale to seven figures or land on the cover of a magazine. I’m trying to live a life I love. One that feels deeply aligned with who I am.

I love my quiet life. I love being home. I love spending my days doing work I care about and still having time to bake muffins with my kids or wander out to the garden in the middle of the afternoon. It feels like such a gift.

And here’s the beautiful part: it’s made me a better business owner.

I take on a limited number of clients each month. They get my best work—not the version of me that’s worn out or stretched too thin, but the version of me that’s rested, present, and truly excited to pour into their business. I’ve found that the more I protect my energy, the more creative and impactful my work becomes.

Burnout is not a badge of honor. And over time, I’ve realized that saying yes to everything means saying no to the life I want.

So if you’re feeling stretched, if the hustle is stealing your joy, I hope you know this: you’re allowed to slow down. You’re allowed to say no. You’re allowed to build something beautiful without burning yourself out to do it.

You don’t have to prove your worth by how tired you are. You don’t have to keep up with anyone else’s pace. You get to create your own rhythm—one that honors both your dreams and your well-being.

Because a life that feels good? That is the goal.

Content Prompt: I know how it feels to [insert common objection or hesitation your audience has]. I’ve felt the same way before. But what I found is that when I [what you did or changed], everything started to shift. That’s exactly why I created [your service] – so you don’t have to stay stuck.

Copywriting Formula: Feel-Felt-Found

This week, we’re using a classic yet super effective formula: Feel-Felt-Found.

It goes like this:

• Feel: Empathize with what your audience is experiencing
• Felt: Share a personal story or experience that mirrors theirs
• Found: Show what changed, and how your service played a role

This is the formula for overcoming objections in a way that feels natural, personal, and totally relatable.

Why It Works:

Let’s be honest—trying something new can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s investing your time, your money, or your energy, there’s always that little voice asking, “But what if this doesn’t work for me?”

I’ve been there. That uncertainty? It’s real. And chances are, your audience has felt it too.

That’s why I love the Feel-Felt-Found formula. It doesn’t try to sell or convince—it connects. It gives you the space to say, “Hey, I see you. I’ve stood where you’re standing. And here’s what happened when I took the leap.”

It helps your audience feel seen and supported, and that shift—from doubt to trust—is where the real magic happens. Because once someone feels understood, they’re so much more open to the solution you offer.

Wordsmith Instructions:

Use this week’s content prompt to connect with your audience on a deeper level. Share a hesitation you’ve had (or one you hear from clients all the time), explain how you’ve felt the same way, and show what changed.

Using Wordsmith? Drop this prompt and a few details about your business into Wordsmith. We’ll generate a blog post, newsletter, and social captions that sound like you and speak directly to your ideal audience.

How to Use This Prompt:

• Start with a common fear, frustration, or hesitation your audience has
• Share a real, personal moment where you felt the same
• Show what shifted when you tried something new (aka, your service!)
• Wrap it up with a CTA that says, “You don’t have to stay stuck”

Example Post Using This Prompt:

I know how it feels to stare at a blank screen, wondering if anything you say online even matters.

I’ve felt that frustration too. I used to spend hours trying to write captions that never quite hit. I’d overthink every blog post, every email—only to post nothing at all. (Cue the silence and guilt.)

But what I found is that showing up online doesn’t have to feel so hard. Once I started using simple content prompts and batching my ideas, everything changed. I had structure, flow, and finally—momentum.

That’s exactly why I created Wordsmith. Each week, I share a content prompt just like this one—designed to help you show up with more confidence, strategy, and ease.

Whether you write it yourself or let Wordsmith do the heavy lifting, you’ll finally have content that sounds like you and actually works.

You don’t have to stay stuck. Let’s make content creation feel simple again. Join Wordsmith here

Information Needed About Your Business:

To make this prompt work for you, think about:

• What common objections or hesitations do your clients have?
• Have you personally felt the same way at some point?
• What did you discover or change that helped you move forward?
• How does your service help others experience that shift too?

This prompt is all about showing your audience that you get it. And once they know you understand where they are, they’ll trust you to help them take the next step.

Your website is your best marketing tool—if you know how to use it. For too many entrepreneurs, their website sits quietly in the background, looking pretty but doing little to actually grow their business.

Sound familiar? Let’s change that.

Your website should be more than a digital business card. It has the potential to be a lead-generating, client-connecting powerhouse. But to get there, you need to approach it with intention. Let’s walk through exactly how to turn your site into a marketing tool that works for you 24/7.

Why Your Website Matters More Than Ever

In a world obsessed with social media, it’s easy to overlook the power of your website. But here’s the thing: social media platforms come and go. Algorithms change. Trends shift. Your website? It’s your home base. It’s the one place online where you have complete control over the user experience and the message you share.

Think about it—when was the last time you signed up for a service or bought a product without visiting the website first? Exactly. Your potential clients are doing the same thing. Your website is the bridge between someone discovering you online and becoming a paying client.

Step 1: Make a Killer First Impression

Your homepage is like a handshake. It’s your first chance to connect with someone and make them feel welcome. Here’s what it needs to do:

• Clear Message: Within seconds, visitors should understand who you are, what you offer, and why it matters to them.
• Easy Navigation: Make it simple for users to find the information they need.
• Call to Action: What do you want them to do? Book a call? Download a freebie? Make it clear and compelling.

Step 2: Build Trust Through Your About Page

People buy from people they trust. Your About page isn’t just a place to list your credentials—it’s where you build connection. Share your story. Show your values. Let them see the human behind the business.

Pro tip: Use your About page to address your audience’s pain points. Make it about them as much as it is about you.

Step 3: Create Content That Converts

Your blog, portfolio, or service pages should do more than just inform—they should convert. Here’s how to make that happen:

• Use SEO to Your Advantage: Optimize your content with relevant keywords to help people find you online. Think about what your ideal client is searching for and weave those phrases naturally into your content.
• Solve Problems: Every piece of content should answer a question or solve a problem your audience is facing.
• Include CTAs: Encourage readers to take the next step with clear calls to action.

Step 4: Make It Easy to Work with You

Don’t make people hunt for how to contact you or figure out your pricing. Your website should make it easy for someone to say, “Yes, I want to work with her!”

Here’s what to include:

• Clear Service Descriptions: Spell out exactly what you offer and who it’s for.
• Pricing Information: If you don’t want to list exact prices, offer a starting price or pricing guide.
• Contact Form: Make it easy to get in touch, and respond quickly when someone does.

Step 5: Optimize for Mobile

Most visitors will check out your website on their phone. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, you’re losing potential clients. Ensure that your website looks great and functions perfectly on all devices.

Step 6: Automate Where You Can

Your website should be working for you even when you’re not online. Use tools like email opt-ins, automated workflows, and scheduling software to make your site a lead-generating machine.

Your Website Is Your 24/7 Salesperson

At the end of the day, your website is more than just a digital storefront. It’s a 24/7 salesperson, working tirelessly to connect you with your ideal clients. But to make it work, you need to treat it as the powerful marketing tool it is.

When you invest time and effort into optimizing your website, you’ll see a shift. Clients will find you more easily. They’ll understand your offer more clearly. And they’ll feel more confident saying, “Yes!” to working with you.

Your website is your best marketing tool—let’s make sure it’s working as hard as you are.

March flew by in a blur of gym days, steady strides, and more than a few proud moments. What stood out most? Not just the mileage milestones—but the mindset shift. Even though I hit some exciting new goals this month, I also gave myself permission to slow down a bit and enjoy the process. I showed up consistently, even if that meant just a simple 3-4 mile run. I honored my need for rest, taking two days off each week. It wasn’t about chasing big numbers every day—it was about building a rhythm I could stick with.

One of the biggest highlights? Long run Fridays.

It’s the one day I get to run in the morning instead of the evening, and I made it count. This month, I set a goal to run 10 miles without stopping—and I actually did it! (Still smiling about it!)

I had a total of three long runs in March. The first time, I simply focused on running for two hours straight and ended up hitting 9 miles. For the second and third runs, I locked into a steady 5.5 MPH pace and was able to finish 10 miles just under the two-hour mark.

Now, if you’re a seasoned runner reading this, you might think, “Okay, not a huge deal.” But for someone who just started running three months ago?

It feels like a huge deal.

I’m learning how to maintain a slower pace for longer stretches—and that’s been a game-changer. I’m not ready for a marathon just yet, but the fact that I’m hitting mile 10 already? It gives me so much hope that I’m on the right track.

I’ve got my sights set on 13 miles in April (yep, a half marathon distance!). The tricky part is that I’m limited to a two-hour window at the gym—my little ones get to hang in the kid area while I work out—so I have to fit all of my training into that time slot.

Also worth mentioning: I’ve done all of my running so far on a treadmill. I know, I know—some runners absolutely hate the treadmill. But honestly? It’s been a great training ground for me. It’s helped me learn how to pace myself, focus on my breathing, and feel totally safe while working out. Now that the weather is starting to warm up, I’d love to test out some longer runs outside and see how that feels compared to running indoors.

If I had to sum up March in a sentence, I’d say it was about being consistent with the small stuff—and brave with the big stuff. I kept showing up on the short runs, and I pushed myself when it mattered most.

For April, I’m keeping the same game plan: shorter runs between 3-5 miles during the week, and longer Friday runs where I work toward that 13-mile milestone.

Let’s see what this next month brings!