A few years ago, I was in the thick of it. You know the feeling—the constant pressure to keep up with the latest algorithm change, the endless content creation cycle, the sense that if you’re not posting every day, you’re falling behind. Social media felt like it had become a full-time job, and honestly, it was exhausting.

But then one day, I decided to take a deep breath and really look at my numbers. Not my follower count or how many people liked my latest post—but the actual metrics that were bringing in sales.

And let me tell you, what I found was eye-opening.

Where the Real Traffic Was Coming From

When I finally sat down and pulled up my analytics, here’s what I found:

• The majority of my traffic was direct. These were people typing in my URL directly or coming from a saved bookmark. These weren’t people discovering me on Instagram—they were actively seeking me out.
• Next up was search. People were finding me through Google, not from a perfectly curated Instagram feed.
• Then came email marketing. The emails I was sending out without flashy graphics or viral hooks were driving more sales than any reel or story.
• And at the very bottom? Social media. Despite the hours spent crafting posts, reels, and stories, it was barely moving the needle.

I couldn’t believe it. All that time spent crafting social media posts, stressing over hashtags, and trying to crack the algorithm… and for what? A tiny sliver of my traffic and sales.

The Client Who Was Just Like Me

I was working with a 1:1 client recently who was feeling the exact same overwhelm. She was pouring hours into Instagram—creating reels, going live, responding to comments—but her sales just weren’t reflecting the effort.

When we looked at her analytics, the numbers told the exact same story as mine.

• 53% of her revenue came from direct traffic.
• 30% was from search.
• 16% came from email marketing.
• And at the bottom? Social media, bringing in just 3% of revenue. All those hours spent creating Instagram content? A mere drop in the revenue bucket.

Seeing those numbers was a huge wake-up call for her—and a reminder for me.

It made me realize that it wasn’t just me experiencing this shift. Most business owners are probably pouring so much time and energy into social media, thinking it’s the main driver of their sales and traffic, when in reality, their email list—which they might barely use—is outperforming it without even trying.

Why Social Media Feels “Safe” But Isn’t

It’s easy to get wrapped up in the dopamine hit of social media. A like, a comment, a new follower—it all feels good in the moment. But those vanity metrics don’t pay the bills.

The real money? It’s in the boring metrics that don’t always feel as exciting:

→ Direct Traffic: These are people who already know, like, and trust you. They’re coming to your site intentionally. If you’re not tracking where they’re coming from, you’re missing out.

→ Search Traffic: This is the gift that keeps on giving. Content you created years ago can still bring in new leads and sales today.

→ Email Marketing: Every time you hit send, you’re landing directly in someone’s inbox—a place where they’re already paying attention.

→ Social Media: Yes, it still matters. But if it’s not driving sales, it might be time to rethink how much effort you’re putting into it.

How to Start Tracking the Right Metrics

If you’re ready to shift your focus from vanity metrics to what really drives revenue, here’s where to start:

1. Open Google Analytics

Head straight to the acquisition section and take a hard look at your traffic sources. Where are your sales actually coming from? Identify which channels are driving the most conversions and adjust your focus accordingly.

2. Check Your Email Marketing Platform

How many clicks, opens, and sales are your emails generating? This is often an untapped goldmine. Look at your top-performing emails and replicate the strategies that work.

3. Look at Your Search Traffic

What keywords are people using to find you? Are you showing up for the terms that actually relate to what you sell? Dive into Google Search Console to see which search terms are bringing in the most traffic.

4. Assess Your Social Media ROI

Are your posts leading to sales or just engagement? If it’s the latter, it might be time to scale back and focus elsewhere. Track the clicks and conversions coming from each platform.

5. Pinpoint Your Best-Performing Content

What blog posts, email sequences, or product pages are consistently bringing in traffic and sales? Double down on those. Use tools like Hotjar to see how people are interacting with key pages on your site.

Social Media is Not the Enemy

Let me be clear: Social media is not the enemy. It’s still an incredibly valuable tool for connecting with your audience, building brand awareness, and sharing the heart behind your business. But when it comes to driving sales, it might never be your top performer.

Instead of treating social media as a primary selling tool, think of it as a space to share the process, the behind-the-scenes moments, and the real-life connections that build trust over time. It’s a place to nurture your community, share your story, and build relationships.

So, yes, it can absolutely support your marketing strategy—but it shouldn’t be the strategy. By understanding your metrics, you gain the freedom to use social media as a powerful tool for connection rather than a constant source of pressure to sell.

When I made the decision to stop pouring hours into social media and start focusing on what was really moving the needle, everything changed. Not only did I reclaim my time, but I also started seeing higher conversions, better sales, and a deeper connection with my audience.

And seeing my own analytics—and then seeing my client’s numbers echoing the exact same pattern—made me realize it wasn’t just me. Most business owners probably think their marketing efforts are driving sales, especially when they’re spending a crazy amount of time on social media marketing. But in reality, their email list—which they might barely utilize—is out-performing it without even trying.

Knowing my numbers—and then seeing the exact same trend in my client’s data—was a lightbulb moment. It made it clear that this isn’t just a fluke; it’s a pattern. Most business owners probably think their social media marketing is doing all the heavy lifting, but it’s often their email list, their search traffic, and direct visits that are quietly driving sales in the background.

And those metrics? They’re not just numbers—they’re a wake-up call.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or like you’re spinning your wheels with no real return, take a look at your own numbers. I guarantee they’ll tell you exactly what you need to know.

And if you’re not sure how to analyze them or where to start, let’s talk. Because sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs come when you stop doing more—and start doing what actually works.

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.

A few weeks ago, I started working with a new client—someone who, like many of us, has been wearing all the hats in her business. She’s passionate about what she does, incredibly talented, and deeply committed to serving her people. But when we started talking about her marketing strategy, I heard it in the voice: that familiar sound of burnout.

She was tired.

Tired of trying to keep up with the trends. Tired of throwing content out into the void and hoping it landed somewhere meaningful. Tired of wondering if what she was doing was even working. And most of all? Tired of trying to do it all on her own without any real support.

She was at a point where the constant hustle had worn her down. She didn’t want to keep running in circles, working around the clock. What she wanted was to learn how to slow down, to build something that felt sustainable instead of stressful.

And honestly? I’ve been there, too.

There was a time when I thought marketing meant chasing whatever was trending that week, showing up daily on social media, and constantly spinning my wheels just to stay visible. I thought that if I wasn’t doing all the things, I was falling behind. And let me tell you: that approach doesn’t just lead to burnout—it leads to disconnection.

What I love about working with clients on their marketing strategy is getting to take a step back with them. Zooming out. Looking at the big picture. There’s something incredibly powerful about bringing in a fresh set of eyes—someone who isn’t deep in the day-to-day of your business. When you’ve been doing this work for so long, it’s easy to become blind to the parts that aren’t working as well as they could be.

But from the outside? Those gaps are often obvious. And with a little distance, clarity starts to form. We start to see where the energy is leaking, where the opportunities are waiting, and how to bring it all back into alignment.

Because the truth is, the most effective marketing doesn’t come from reacting. It comes from intention.

The Power of a Long-Term Marketing Strategy

When you build your business around a long-term marketing plan, you gain something most entrepreneurs are desperate for: clarity.

Instead of waking up every morning wondering what to post or scrambling to get content out the door, you know exactly what you’re working toward. You have a path. You’re not winging it—you’re following a plan that supports your vision and your life.

And the best part? You don’t have to rely on short-term bursts of energy or viral moments to keep your business going. You build momentum instead of burnout.

Where I Start With Every Strategy

Whether I’m working with a client or mapping out my own quarterly goals, I always start in the same place:

What are we actually trying to build here?

Are we trying to grow a community? Launch a new offer? Drive more email sign-ups? Book more high-ticket clients?

Once we know the goal, we reverse-engineer the strategy. We ask:

• What content supports this?
• What platforms are best suited for this message?
• Where does our ideal client hang out, and how can we meet them there?

Think Beyond Social Media

Let’s be honest. Social media can feel like a full-time job in itself. And while it has its place in a solid marketing strategy, it should never be the whole thing.

When you rely only on short-form content that disappears in 24 hours or gets lost in the algorithm, you’re constantly hustling to stay visible. But when you build your strategy around content that lasts—like blog posts, email marketing, and search-friendly platforms like Pinterest—your marketing works for you even when you’re not actively creating.

That’s what I mean by marketing for the long haul.

What a Sustainable Strategy Looks Like

Here’s a peek at the kind of strategy I help my clients build (and what I follow myself):

Start with a big picture business strategy.

• Think about your business goals, offers, and what you want to build over the next 3, 6, or 12 months.
• Create a few key business content categories (like content pillars) that align with these goals.

Brainstorm your content by category.

• For each category, make a running list of content ideas—these can be blog posts, newsletters, educational pieces, behind-the-scenes shares, or client success stories.

Create your content schedule.

• Plan out your content by month and week so you’re not scrambling to create on the fly.
• If you want to create two pieces a week, you’ll end up with around 104 strong pieces of content for the year—more than enough to stay consistent and visible.

Follow a content funnel that prioritizes long-term platforms.

• For me, that looks like this: Blog (for SEO and long-form evergreen content) → Pinterest (to generate consistent traffic) → Newsletter (to deepen connection and drive sales) → Social Media (as a repurposing tool).
• The key is to put the most effort into the content that lasts the longest and works the hardest for you over time.

Automate and repurpose.

• Use scheduling tools, batch your content, and set up email sequences that nurture your audience without needing to be online every day.
• Turn one piece of content into five with intention—just like that, your marketing becomes smarter and more sustainable.

Track results and refine.

• Review analytics monthly and take note of what’s working, but don’t get lost in the numbers. Let data guide you, not control you.

Make space for rest.

• When your content is working in the background, you get your time back. Take a break, go outside, spend time with family—your business will keep growing.

When the Plan Brings Peace

I’ll never forget the moment my client said, “I finally feel like I can breathe.”

We had just mapped out three months of content, aligned with her business goals, set to be repurposed across multiple platforms. No guessing. No scrambling.

Just clarity, and confidence.

And that is what a good marketing plan should give you.

Ready to Create a Strategy That Supports You?

You don’t need to be everywhere. You don’t need to do all the things. You just need a marketing plan that supports your vision and leaves room for your life.

If you’re tired of the hustle and ready to find more ease in your business, start by asking yourself:

• What do I actually want to build?
• Where does my audience actually find me?
• What kind of content do I enjoy creating?

Let those answers lead you.

Because the most sustainable marketing strategy isn’t the one that gets you quick likes. It’s the one that lets you build a business you actually love to show up for.

And that? That’s marketing for the long haul.

Have you ever browsed a product online, only to see it pop up in an ad later that day—maybe while scrolling through Facebook, checking your email, or reading an article? That’s remarketing in action. And while it might feel like the internet is reading your mind, what’s actually happening is one of the smartest and most effective marketing strategies available to business owners today.

Remarketing ads focus on people who have already interacted with your brand—whether they visited your website, engaged with a social post, or even added something to their cart but didn’t check out. Unlike traditional ads that introduce your business to a cold audience, remarketing ads target warm leads—people who already know who you are and have shown interest in what you offer. And that’s why remarketing consistently delivers some of the highest ROI in digital advertising.

Why Remarketing Ads Work So Well

Think about it—most people don’t buy something the very first time they see it. Life gets busy, distractions happen, and sometimes they just need a little nudge. That’s where remarketing comes in.

By showing up again in front of someone who already browsed your site, engaged with your content, or considered making a purchase, you’re increasing the chances of turning that interest into a sale. Instead of spending ad dollars trying to convince new people that your offer is valuable, you’re investing in people who already believe in it—they just need a final nudge.

And the results? They speak for themselves. Just the other day, I spent $11 on a remarketing ad and made $470 in return. That’s not an everyday occurrence, but it perfectly illustrates why remarketing ads come with the best return on investment—because they focus on the people who have already taken a look at what you have to offer. Out of all the ads I’ve run over the years, remarketing has always come out on top.

How Remarketing Works

Remarketing ads work by tracking visitors to your website (or people who engage with your content) using a tracking pixel or code. When they leave your site without making a purchase, they get added to a custom audience list, and your ads start following them around the internet—on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Google, and beyond.

Essentially, instead of showing ads to random people, you’re only targeting those who have already shown interest in your business. That means:

• They’re already somewhat familiar with you.
• They’ve already taken action, even if it was just browsing.
• They’re much more likely to convert than someone seeing you for the first time.

That’s why remarketing ads don’t just increase conversions—they do so at a lower cost per conversion than cold audience ads.

Setting Up Your First Remarketing Ad

If you’re new to running ads, the thought of setting up remarketing might feel overwhelming, but I promise—it’s simpler than you think. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to get started:

1. Install the Right Tracking Pixel

First things first, you need to install a tracking pixel (or tag) from the platform you’ll be running ads on. Facebook has the Meta Pixel, Google has Google Tag Manager, and Pinterest has its own Pinterest Tag. These tracking tools allow you to see who is visiting your site so you can retarget them with ads later.

2. Build a Custom Audience

Once your pixel is in place, it will start collecting data on visitors. Now, you can create custom audiences based on different interactions, such as:

• People who visited your website in the last 30, 60, or 90 days.
• People who added an item to their cart but didn’t check out.
• People who engaged with your content (liked, commented, or shared a post).
• People who watched a percentage of your video content.

3. Create a Compelling Ad

Remarketing ads don’t need to be flashy or complex—but they do need to be strategic. Since you’re targeting warm leads, your messaging should remind them why they were interested in the first place. Here are some approaches that work well:

• Reminder Ads: “Still thinking about [product name]? It’s waiting for you!”
• Incentive Ads: “Take 10% off your order—just for coming back!”
• Social Proof Ads: “See why thousands of happy customers love [product name].”
• Urgency Ads: “Limited stock left! Grab yours before it’s gone.”

4. Set a Budget and Run the Ad

One of the best things about remarketing ads? They don’t require a huge budget. Because you’re only targeting a smaller, high-intent audience, you can start with as little as $5–$10 a day and see results. Once you’ve tested your ad and know it’s working, you can scale your budget as needed.

Why Remarketing Should Be Part of Your Strategy

One of the biggest mistakes I see business owners make is focusing all their efforts on attracting new customers while forgetting about the ones who are already halfway through the door.

Remarketing ads change that. They ensure that when someone expresses interest in your offer, they don’t forget about it five minutes later. They bring back the people who almost bought, remind past customers why they love you, and—when done right—deliver some of the best ROI you’ll ever see in digital marketing.

So if you haven’t started using remarketing ads yet, now’s the time. Set up your tracking pixel, build your audience, and watch what happens when you stop chasing cold leads and start focusing on the warm ones already waiting for you.

And if you’re ready to take your ad strategy to the next level, I break down everything you need to know in my Pinterest Ad Strategy Course. In just 90 minutes, I’ll walk you through exactly how I set up ads that convert, giving you real examples you can apply to your own business, check it out here!

Marketing. Just the word alone can feel overwhelming, right? There’s always something new, always another trend to chase, another algorithm to figure out. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably wondered, Do I really need to do all of this?

Here’s the truth: It’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things. And often, the right things aren’t flashy. They aren’t loud. They aren’t even the things you see plastered all over social media. The magic? It’s in the small, quiet actions that compound over time and create real, lasting results in your business.

The Power of Small, Quiet Actions

We’ve been conditioned to think that success comes from going big, working harder, hustling longer. But here’s what I’ve learned after over a decade in business: Sustainable growth comes from consistency, not chaos. It comes from intentional, quiet steps taken over time—steps that don’t burn you out but instead build a foundation for long-term success.

Think about some of the most powerful marketing strategies: word-of-mouth, strong client relationships, a clear brand message. These aren’t things you “launch” in one day. They grow from small, intentional actions—like sending a heartfelt email to your audience, responding personally to a DM, or simply showing up with valuable content week after week.

The question is: What small, quiet actions are you taking today that will lead to big results tomorrow?

Small Actions That Have a Big Impact

Now, let’s get practical. What are the small but mighty moves you can make in your marketing? Here are a few that I swear by:

1. Writing Personalized Emails

You don’t need a massive email list to make an impact. What you do need is connection. Instead of just blasting out promotional emails, try writing like you’re talking to a friend. Share a personal story, offer something valuable, and invite conversation. That one email could be the thing that turns a reader into a loyal customer.

Recently, I added a Sunday series to my newsletter workflow where I check in on Sunday mornings, sharing some personal thoughts with my list. No sales, no pitch—just a cozy way to show up, connect, and offer something real. It’s my way of building relationships that go beyond business, and the responses have been incredible. Sometimes, the smallest, most personal actions create the biggest impact.

2. Engaging in One-on-One Conversations

In a world of automation and bots, personal connection is a marketing superpower. Reply to DMs. Send voice messages. Comment thoughtfully on someone’s post. These small actions make people feel seen, and that builds trust—the foundation of any great brand.

3. Creating Consistent, Valuable Content

Instead of trying to be everywhere all at once, focus on one platform and show up consistently. Maybe it’s a weekly blog, a short-form video series, or a podcast. When you commit to creating value in a way that feels natural to you, you attract the right audience without feeling like you’re constantly chasing visibility.

This year, I made it my focus to consistently blog, and it has transformed my content creation process. Having a structured space to share thoughts, insights, and experiences has made everything else—social media posts, emails, and marketing strategies—so much easier and more focused. Instead of scrambling for content ideas, I now have a steady flow of topics to pull from, reinforcing my brand message and deepening my connection with my audience.

4. Following Up With Past Clients or Customers

Most people focus on attracting new customers, but your best marketing strategy? Serving the people who have already said “yes” to you. A simple follow-up email to a past client can lead to a repeat booking, a referral, or a testimonial that brings in even more clients.

5. Refining Your Message

If you feel like your marketing isn’t landing, it’s not about doing more—it’s about getting clearer. Take time to refine your message so that when someone finds you, they instantly know what you do, who you help, and why it matters. Small tweaks in your messaging can lead to big shifts in how people perceive and connect with your brand.

The Mindset Shift: Less Hustle, More Impact

Here’s the thing: Marketing isn’t about volume—it’s about impact. You don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room to make an impression. You don’t need to do all the things, post all the time, or be everywhere at once. What you do need is to focus on the actions that truly move the needle.

So, instead of asking, What else should I be doing? try asking:

• What small action can I take today that will build long-term trust?
• How can I connect with one person in a meaningful way?
• What message do I need to clarify to make my marketing more effective?

Marketing isn’t about the rush—it’s about the ripple effect. Small, quiet actions create movements.

Now, I want to hear from you: What’s one small, quiet action you can take today that will set your marketing in motion? Maybe it’s sending an email, replying to a comment, or brainstorming a content series that excites you. Whatever it is, start there.

Because the real secret to big marketing results? It’s not the loudest strategy. It’s the most consistent one.

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;

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD WORKBOOK

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One of the most common questions I get when it comes to Pinterest ads: Where do I even start? You’ve probably heard that Pinterest can be a goldmine for passive traffic and sales (spoiler: it totally can be). But when you finally sit down to launch your first ad, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—there are different ad formats, audience types, budgets, pins, targeting strategies… it’s a lot.

Here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be complicated.
But you do need to start with the right strategy—for where you are right now.

Because truthfully? The best first ad to run on Pinterest depends on whether you already have traffic coming in… or you’re starting from zero.

Let me explain…

Part One: If You Already Have Website Traffic (Even a Little)

If you’ve already got visitors landing on your site—maybe from your blog, SEO, Pinterest content, or even social media—then listen up, because this is where Pinterest ads can really shine.

💡 Start with a remarketing ad.
This is hands-down the best ad to run if you’ve got even a little bit of traffic already trickling in.

Why?
Because it’s targeting people who’ve already seen your brand. Maybe they clicked through to a product, added something to their cart, or read one of your blog posts. These people are already warmed up—and a well-placed Pinterest ad might be the nudge they need to finally hit “buy.”

Real Talk: What Remarketing Can Actually Do

Let me give you a quick example.
In one day, I spent $11 on a remarketing ad and made $470 in return. (Yep, I triple-checked.) That’s the beauty of this type of ad—it’s not trying to introduce you to new people, it’s gently reminding someone who’s already been in your world that your offer is still there. Still helpful. Still worth it.

And when your ad shows up while they’re planning, searching, and making decisions on Pinterest? Magic. And the best part? Since this ad only gets shown to those who have visited your site, it’s a much smaller audience size, which means you really don’t have to spend much.

How to Set Up Your First Remarketing Ad on Pinterest:

• Make sure you have the Pinterest tag installed on your website (this tracks who’s visiting).
• Choose one of your top-visited products, services, or blog posts as your landing page.
• Create 3–4 fresh pin designs that lead directly to that page.
• Use Pinterest’s ad manager to retarget visitors who have already interacted with that page or your site in the last 7–30 days.

It’s a strategy I use regularly and still get amazing returns from—because it works.

But here’s the thing…

Part Two: If You’re Starting From Zero

What if you’re just getting started?
What if no one’s visiting your website yet, and you don’t have enough traffic to retarget?

Friend, don’t worry. This is still a perfect time to start with Pinterest ads. You just need a slightly different strategy.

💡 Run a cold traffic ad to your best-selling product or service.

Why your best seller? Because it’s already been validated. Even if it’s just through a few sales here and there—you’ve proven that people want this thing. And that means it has the highest chance of converting when you get it in front of more of the right people.

Once you start generating traffic (and sales) you can turn on a second ad for remarketing.

Why Pinterest Is Great for Beginners

One reason I love recommending Pinterest ads to business owners is that Pinterest doesn’t require you to have a giant following, or a warmed-up audience. People are already searching for solutions, ideas, and offers. And if you can match your ad to what they’re looking for? You’re in.

Instead of trying to interrupt someone’s scroll like you do on Instagram, Pinterest lets you place your ad right where someone’s already looking for what you sell.

That means better alignment. More clicks. And more potential for sales—even if your audience is still small.

Recap: The Best First Pinterest Ad Depends on Where You Are

Let’s make it simple:

You Have Website Traffic	You’re Starting from Scratch
Start with: Remarketing ad to warm leads	Start with: Cold traffic ad to your best seller
Target: Past website visitors or engaged Pinterest users	Target: Interests, keywords, and search terms your audience is actively using
Goal: Boost conversions from people already familiar with you	Goal: Attract new traffic and make your first few sales

Both are powerful. But choosing the one that matches your business stage will give you the fastest path to results.

Want My Exact Strategy?

So many of my business friends were curious about how I was running Pinterest ads and getting strong ROI—even with a small ad spend—that I created a 90-min course that walks you through my entire setup.

🎯 The Pinterest Ad Strategy is short, sweet, and super actionable. In under 90 minutes, I show you:

• How I set up Pinterest ads from start to finish
• What kind of ad creatives I use
• How I track conversions
• And how to target the right people who are ready to buy from you.

It’s like looking over my shoulder as I set up a real campaign—with takeaways you can apply right away.

If you’ve ever wanted to start running Pinterest ads but didn’t know how to start smart, this is it. You can check it out right here.

Pinterest ads don’t have to feel overwhelming or intimidating. You just need the right starting point for where you are right now.

If you have traffic—remarketing ads are gold.
If you’re just beginning—run a cold ad to your best offer.
Either way, you’re giving your business a boost by putting your work in front of people who actually want what you have.

There it is—that little notification that someone unsubscribed from your list. Maybe you just hit send on a heartfelt email that you poured your energy into. Maybe it was full of value, a personal story, or a reminder about something you’re truly excited to share. You check the stats and see… someone opted out.

Cue that twinge in your chest, the voice in your head that whispers, Was it too much? Was I too much?

Let’s hit pause on that thought spiral.

Because friend? I’m here to remind you: unsubscribes are not the enemy.

You’re Not Alone in This

Someone I was working with recently told me how frustrating it was to send an email and instantly see people leave her list. And I get it. That initial reaction is so real. It can feel personal.

But here’s the shift I want you to take with you:

An unsubscribe isn’t rejection—it’s refinement.

It’s someone saying, “This isn’t for me right now.” And guess what? That’s okay. Because when you’re running a values-driven business and building a list that reflects your heart, you don’t need everyone. You need the right people.

The Positives Of Someone Unsubscribing

Here’s what happens when someone unsubscribes from your email list:

• Your open rates go up because your audience is more engaged
• Your click rates improve
• Your deliverability score stays healthy
• And most importantly? You get to serve a list full of humans who are actually excited to hear from you

Doesn’t that sound like a dream?

Think about it: every unsubscribe is one step closer to a more engaged, more aligned audience. It’s like pruning a plant. You’re not hurting it—you’re helping it grow stronger, healthier, more beautiful.

The Bigger Picture

When we cling to numbers—followers, subscribers, views—we forget the point of it all: connection.

You’re not building a business to reach the most people. You’re building a business to reach the right people. The ones who light up when your email lands in their inbox. The ones who hit reply to say “thank you.” The ones who buy, refer, and stick around.

Those are your people. And the more you show up as you, the easier it will be for them to find you.

So let them go. Let the unsubscribes unsubscribe. Let the unfollows unfollow.

Because when you stop trying to be for everyone, you start deeply serving someone.

A Gentle Reframe for the Next Time You Hit Send

The next time you send a piece of content—whether it’s an email, a post, or a story—and someone unfollows or unsubscribes?

Try saying this to yourself:

“I’m not here to be liked by everyone. I’m here to serve the people who need what I have.”

You are building something real. Something meaningful. Something built on values, truth, and intention.

And that kind of business? It doesn’t need to convince everyone. It needs to speak to the right people—and speak to them well.

Growth vs. Playing It Safe

If you’re building an email list, you really only have two options:

You can avoid sending emails altogether and never risk someone hitting that unsubscribe button… or you can keep showing up. Keep writing. Keep pressing send and curating a list of humans who are actually excited to hear from you.

And after growing my own list to over 106,000 subscribers, I can tell you this: email marketing is one of the most powerful, personal, and long-lasting ways to connect with your audience.

Sure, I used to feel the sting every time someone unsubscribed. But these days? I know better. I’d rather serve a smaller group who opens, reads, and responds than a massive list of people who never engage.

Unsubscribes don’t scare me anymore. I’m here for the people who are here for this. And I hope you’ll start looking at your list that way, too.

This morning, I got an email from a reader (hi, friend!) who replied to one of my newsletters with a question that made me stop and smile. It’s such a good question. And it’s one that so many people shy away from asking because the online space has made it seem like we should all already have an audience, a list, and 10,000 followers by day one. When in reality, we all start at 0.

She wrote:

“Hi Elena, first, your email is the only email I receive that I look forward to opening. 🫶🏼 I have a follow up question for this email, if you’re absolutely new, with zilch traffic and just launching your business online, where do we gain email subscribers? I am trying to avoid social media like a plague as much as possible (aside from Pinterest and just showing up on Instagram, because I know I’m easy to squirrel and get sucked in the vortex.) I see this often where online creatives talk about traffic from their email list or sales, but I don’t see much of how they are getting the subscribers in the first place… I feel a lot are buying ads or have incredible SEO?”

So if you’re in the same boat—starting something new with no audience and no clue how to grow—I want to share exactly what I did when I launched my last big idea.

Spoiler: I didn’t use my email list, my website, or even my name. I launched it in the scrappiest way possible. And it still worked so I know it will work for you too!

The Backstory: Launching Without the Safety Net

When I launched Wordsmith, I made a pretty bold decision: I didn’t use my audience.

I had built up a list of over 60,000 subscribers, thousands of customers, and social media followers across multiple platforms. But I wanted to test a theory.

What if I launched something as a total nobody?

No list.
No followers.
No fancy website.
No name recognition.

Just a good offer, placed in front of the right people, using the strategies I’d been teaching and using for years.

So I uploaded Wordsmith to a simple course platform, didn’t link it to my main site, and didn’t even announce it publicly for months. Instead, I created a couple of Pinterest ads, turned them on, and waited.

What happened?

I scaled it to $10,000 MRR (monthly recurring revenue)—before I ever posted about it on Instagram, emailed my list, or updated my website.

The Shift: Why This Changed Everything for Me

This experience reminded me of something I think we all need to hear:

You don’t need a big audience to get started. You need a strategy.

I know that sounds like something plucked off a Pinterest quote board, but it’s true. When you focus on getting in front of the right people instead of everyone, your growth becomes intentional and scalable.

It’s not about being viral. It’s about being visible—strategically.

And in today’s world, when social media can feel like a treadmill you didn’t mean to hop on, this strategy is a breath of fresh air.

So, What Would I Do If I Were Starting From Scratch Today?

I’d do exactly what I did then. Here’s what that looks like in action.

1. Get Your Offer in Front of the Right People

Forget trying to post 3x a day and hoping someone sees it or praying something goes viral. You need to place your offer in front of people actively looking for what you sell.

Pinterest is a search engine (not a social platform), which means your ads show up for people based on what they’re searching for.

That means you’re not interrupting someone’s scroll—you’re meeting them exactly where they are, in the middle of their search.

When I ran my best-performing Pinterest ad, it cost me $0.008 per impression. If I spent $50, that got me in front of 6,250 people. But not just any people—people who were literally typing in search terms that matched what I was offering.

And that? That’s the kind of targeted marketing that works.

2. Build Your Email List (Without Social Media)

I’m passionate about email marketing because it’s what’s worked for me time and time again.

You don’t need 100k Instagram followers. You need 1,000 engaged email subscribers.

Create a freebie—something that solves a quick problem or gives your audience a taste of your paid offer—and then give it away in exchange for their email.

You can absolutely do this organically by pinning to Pinterest or writing blog content around your freebie. But if you want to scale faster?

Run an ad.

One of my freebie pins has brought in over 37,000 email subscribers. And that was with a $5/day Pinterest ad.

This is how you grow your audience, build trust, and create a base of people who actually want to hear from you.

3. Connect the Dots with a Nuture Sequence

You’ve got traffic. You’re building your list. Now what?

This is where a simple funnel comes in—think welcome emails, a mini nurture sequence, and then a gentle invitation to check out your paid offer.

Keep it simple. Let your content do the heavy lifting.

The goal here isn’t to be everywhere. It’s to be intentional in a few places that matter most.

This Is What My Pinterest Strategy Course Teaches

If you’re nodding along like “this sounds amazing but also… how??” — I’ve got you.

I created my Pinterest Ad Strategy Video Tutorial for this exact reason. So many of my business friends were asking how I was growing my list and sales without being online all day, and I decided to record my entire setup process.

It’s like sitting next to me in my office while I walk you through how I:

• Set up my own Pinterest ads
• Find the right keywords
• Target the right audience
• Track results and scale
• And grow my email list at the same time

There’s even a bonus video all about list building—because ads are powerful, but having a list is what gives you real control over your business.

👉 You can check out the course here.

You Can Start With Nothing (And Still Build Something Big)

I know what it feels like to scroll online and feel like everyone else is ahead.

To think, “Sure, that worked for her, but she already had followers and a list and a team…”

Friend, I built one my most successful business with none of those things—just a simple ad and a whole lot of heart.

So if you’re at the beginning? Let this be your encouragement: You can start from scratch and still scale something meaningful. And with the right game plan, you can do it really fast.

It’s not about having a massive audience to start. It’s about having a plan, taking the leap, and building as you go.

Now it’s your turn.
What’s one idea you’ve been sitting on that you’d launch if you had an audience?
What if you didn’t wait? What if you just turned an ad on and got to experience how fast it can all come together?

You’re not behind. You’re just getting started.