Live Full Work Fun Podcast
Gayla Scrivener
Subscribe
Welcome to the Live Full Work Fun podcast. This is the show to encourage you to live your life to the fullest. You're in the right place if you believe work shouldn't have to suck the life out of you, but instead, be the catalyst of creating your dream lifestyle.
Every week, host Gayla Scrivener will introduce you to amazing guests, useful resources, and inspirational stories. You'll discover opportunities and perspectives to shape your version of living full and working fun.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
5 days ago
#210 - Choosing to Move Forward in Her Strengths with Lindsey Hartz
Founder of Ignite Your Book Marketing, Lindsey Hartz is this week’s guest on the Live Full Work Fun podcast. Lindsey was the owner, lead marketing consultant and book launch strategist from 2011 - 2020 at the Hartz Agency, a boutique marketing firm for authors dedicated to creating strategic marketing campaigns that help words transform lives.
Lindsey Hartz was the owner, lead marketing consultant and book launch strategist from 2011 - 2020 at the Hartz Agency, a boutique marketing firm for authors dedicated to creating strategic marketing campaigns that help words transform lives.
In 2021, she shut down the agency and started a new venture, Ignite Faith Media, because she wanted to work with authors more comprehensively for the long-term of their careers and to provide deeper opportunities for authors and readers to connect with one another for growth and community.
Ignite Your Book Marketing is the first program rollout from Ignite Faith Media and is an educational company for authors who are eager to master marketing to reach more people with messages of hope and healing and are dedicated to building an impactful career and / or ministry out of their book message.
Her work there includes:
* a store for needed templates and resources
* a 6-month group program where she and strategy coaches teach new and growing authors the art of marketing, launch, and business development
* a mastermind where she and strategy coaches work hands on with a limited number of growing and established authors to take their business and / or ministry to the next level of impact and income.
Her background in corporate and digital marketing and project management, her graduate degrees in business and project management, and her marketing campaign and book launch work with hundreds of bestselling authors, speakers, consultants, and publishers provide the backbone for the skills and experience she brings to the table.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* Ignite your book marketing
* How to Do the Work: Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self | Nicole Lapera
* Atlas of the Heart | Berne Brown
Connect with Lindsey Hartz:
* Website: https://www.lindseyhartz.com
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsey.hartz.creative/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/igniteyourbookmarketinginsiders
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/LindseyHartz
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsey-hartz-62a89411b/
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
May 4, 2022
#209 - From Broadcasting to Leading Through Reading with Jeff Brown
On this show, I like to interview folks who have created fun work for themselves to fuel their lifestyle. I’m excited to bring you my conversation with Read to Lead’s podcast host Jeff Brown. Through one chapter of Jeff’s life closing, he opened another opportunity for himself. And he did it through his experience in learning from books.
In 2013, Jeff Brown left behind a 26-year career in broadcasting and launched the Read to Lead Podcast, a podcast that would go on to become a Top 3 Career podcast in Apple Podcasts and receive, so far, four Best Business Podcast nominations. For nearly 9 years now, Jeff has published weekly interviews with some of the world’s most successful and inspiring authors, totaling over four-hundred episodes.
The show’s success eventually led to the publication of his own book called Read to Lead: The Simple Habit That Expands Your Influence and Boosts Your Career. Reviews for the book average 4.9 stars on Amazon and it has ranked in the Top 3 on Amazon for Career Guides.
Through his virtual and in-person speaking and workshops, Jeff evangelizes leaders and teams on the benefits of lifelong learning and professional development and has recently accepted invitations to speak from leaders at LinkedIn, Disney, the National Speakers Association, UPS, Docket, Anvl, and the Virginia Council of CEOs.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable | Seth Godin
* Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smart| Liz Wiseman
* Rookie Smarts: Why Learning Beats Knowing in the New Game of Work | Liz Wiseman
* Die Empty: Unleash Your Best Work Every Day | Todd Henry
Connect with Jeff Brown:
* Website: http://readtoleadbook.com/
* Website: http://readtoleadpodcast.com/
* Instagram: http://instagram.com/thejeffbrown
* Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thejeffbrown
* Twitter: http://twitter.com/thejeffbrown
* LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/brownjeff
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Apr 27, 2022
#208 - How Finding the Right Team Paves the Way to Freedom with Jim Adams
Have you ever felt like you’re spread super thin? You left a job hoping for more freedom, but then found yourself frustrated by wearing too many hats. Have you ever wondered about possibly getting smaller might be the answer? Based on years of front-line experience, today’s guest, Jim Adams believes you can surround yourself with the right people and spend more time doing what you LOVE most!
Jim has helped literally hundreds of small and family-owned businesses around the U. S. and Canada better understand themselves and what they need to do next.
Before running his own super-successful business, Jim was a top consultant with an international business consulting firm. AmericanLandscapeStructures.com - the multi-seven figure pavilion sales business he founded in 2013 - has doubled 2 years running during a pandemic.
Nowadays, you’ll find him cruising around the country with his wife Cara in their RV - their “headquarters on wheels.” When he’s not meeting with clients or working with his
team of super stars, he’s hanging with his sweetie or dropping into the local CrossFit box for a high intensity workout.
In our conversation, you’ll learn:
* What was Jim’s biggest mistake early on in his business.
* How the pandemic opened Jim’s world for finding the right talent to expand his business and free his time.
* What the main motivation is that gets Jim through the tough times of entrepreneurship.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* Find 10’s to 100’s of Thousands of Dollars Hiding Within Your Business | Download
* Know Your Numbers with Jim Adams | Podcast
Connect with Jim Adams:
* Website: https://www.jimadamsconsulting.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimadamsvt85/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jimmy.adams.7311
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-adams-03416b14/
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Apr 20, 2022
#207 - Inspiring Teams to Learn by Doing with Molly Grisham
There are times that you meet someone and simply being in the same room with them just energizes and inspires you. That’s the case with today’s guest.
Recognized as a courageous and passionate communicator, Molly Grisham's work is rooted in experiential learning and designed to inspire and set people in motion. Molly is passionate about building teams, developing leaders, creating custom workshops, and utilizing personality assessments for personal growth and professional development.
Molly brings the experience of 20 years of athletic coaching, an entrepreneurial spirit of a successful business builder, communication skills of an author and storyteller, and 10+ years as an adjunct communication professor to every client engagement. She has helped athletes reach and exceed personal goals, teams become more productive, leaders achieve new heights, and companies be more competitive in their markets through highly experiential programs.
Molly has developed her facilitation skills by participating in trainings hosted by Training
for Change, The Center for Courage and Renewal, The Circle Center, and the Experiential Training Institute at OnSite. Additionally, she has completed training as a Civil & Family Mediator, she’s a Level 1 Certified Experiential Specialist with the International Society for Experiential Professionals, a member of the International Association of Facilitation, and a Certified Myers-Briggs facilitator.
Even though you can’t see her, you can certainly hear and feel her energy and her love of what she does to fuel her full life.
In this conversation, you’ll hear:
* What the tipping point was in making the decision of leaving her 20-year career as an educator and coach.
* What experiential learning is and how she helps teams come together.
* How what she’s learned in athletics leadership translates into corporate team building.
* How she had to completely reinvent her young business during the pandemic.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't | Simon Sinek
* Necessary Endings: The Employees, Businesses, and Relationships That All of Us Have to Give Up in Order to Move Forward | Henry Cloud
Connect with Molly Grisham:
* Website: https://mollygrisham.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/molly.grisham/
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/mollygrisham
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-grisham-63a78399
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/mollygrisham
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Apr 13, 2022
#206 - How to Implement Your Podcast Plan
Maintaining a consistent production schedule can be hard if you don’t have your systems down. In this episode, I share my 7-phase implementation process when it comes to podcast production.
Chunking down a big project like producing a podcast is important in order to move forward. Chunking down the podcast production project must be drilled down to one step at a time, one episode at a time. You must keep your “why” you want to be a podcaster in your line of sight because implementation is hard, but with the right systems, it doesn't have to be.
Here’s the 7-phases of implementation that my team and I go through for each podcast episode for this show as well as for our clients shows. Listen to the episode for a deeper explanation of each phase as it pertains to podcast production.
Phase 1: Plan
Phase 2: Create
Phase 3: Edit
Phase 4: Design
Phase 5: Schedule
Phase 6: Verify
Phase 7: Report
You may do every single phase yourself or delegate some pieces.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* Ultimate Podcast Checklist | Download
* Tech Careers and Money Talk | Christopher Nelson
* Emerald City Productions | Danny Ozment
* Podcast Strategies | Danny Ozment
* Libsyn
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Apr 6, 2022
#205 - From 2 Hour Commute to Family Freedom with Connie Pak
Today’s guest is Connie J. Pak. Connie is the owner of Tuckdin Marketing, a digital marketing and consulting agency.
As an entrepreneur and business owner for over 10 years, she understands the pains and frustrations individuals and companies face when working to create an effective and successful online presence. She has built an agency that focuses on creating efficient and automated marketing systems that deliver bottom-line results.
Her passion is helping clients scale and grow their business to levels they never thought possible. She brings her clients’ visions to life with focused marketing strategies customized for their needs.
Connie calls Southern California home. She absolutely loves finding new delicious "hole in the wall" places to eat and spends every free minute she has going on adventures with her husband and two sons.
In our conversation, Connie and I cover:
* Why she chose to leave her 8-5 job so many years ago.
* What it’s been like working with her spouse in growing their businesses.
* How she became a ClickFunnel expert.
* What you should know before purchasing ClickFunnels.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* DotCom Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online | Russell Brunson
* The Compound Effect: Jumpstart Your Income, Your Life, Your Success | Darren Hardy
* Journey Not The Destination | Connie’s personal journey
Connect with Connie Pak:
* Website: https://www.tuckdinmarketing.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conniejpak/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/conniejpak
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conniejpak
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/conniejpak
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Mar 30, 2022
#204 - Going from No Dough to a Passive Investing Pro With Christopher Nelson
Christopher Nelson is an experienced technology executive, real estate investor, author, and co-founder of Wealthward Capital, a real estate investment firm with a diverse portfolio of over 3,000 multifamily units, mobile home parks, and ATMs.
Christopher shows technology employees how to achieve financial independence through education and creating passive income portfolios. He is currently editing his book, From No Dough to IPO.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
* What Christopher's original career choice was and how he made a pivot
* Why it was necessary to look at investing in a different way
* How Christopher guides technology professionals to long-term stability and wealth
* What makes Christopher’s life full and his work fun
Christopher mentions Sudden Wealth Phenomenon. According to Investopedia According to Investopedia, “SWS refers to psychological condition or an identity crisis in individuals who have become suddenly wealthy. Sudden Wealth Syndrome is characterized by isolation from former friends, guilt over their change in circumstances, and extreme fear of losing their money.”
Whether you’re a tech professional or not, Christopher’s journey is inspirational and him sharing his experience is valuable information that can be applied to any of our lives.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* No Dough to IPO | Book by Christopher Nelson [COMING SOON]
* Tech Careers and Money Talk | Podcast [COMING SOON]
* Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! | Robert T. Kiyosaki
* Fundrise
* Worthy Bonds
* Thrive Community Fund
* Cal Newport | Computer Science Professor
Connect with Christopher Nelson:
* Website: https://www.wealthward.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/techcareersandmoneytalk/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wealthwardCAP
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophercnelson/
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Mar 23, 2022
#203 - Creating an IP Fortress with Steven Thrasher
Intellectual property is a heavy subject. IP attorney, Steven Thrasher, joins the show and breaks this complicated subject down in an easy-to-understand way.
He's known for helping create his client’s intellectual property fortress. Steven is an engineer, inventor, entrepreneur, and attorney. When he was in college, he had a cool idea for an invention and had a terrible experience when it came to figuring out the patent process. The way I see it, he was scammed for a whole lot of money and his invention still wasn’t protected.
Because of this experience, he was bound and determined to help other budding entrepreneurs avoid feeling the way he did about his intellectual property… lost and unprotected.
He went to law school to learn more about the nuances of IP law and has created his own system helping small businesses with protecting their inventions and intellectual property.
He stops competitors from stealing your customers and keeps your online business from being the victim of a take-down notice or copyright troll attack. He does this while running marathons, hiking up mountains on remote continents, and building his own online businesses and information products.
If you see him on a laptop at the rim of the Grand Canyon, he just might be in the middle of working on all of these.
My conversation with Steven was full of great info of not only what we should be aware of when it comes to intellectual property, but also a peek behind the scenes of why he chose to leave a big law firm in lieu of creating his own firm.
In this episode you’ll learn:
* What the differences are between trademarks, copyrights, and intellectual property
* The two important buckets of consideration when it comes to intellectual property
* The biggest mistake most people make when it comes to protecting their intellectual property
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources
* Meditations | Marcus Arelius
* Full Focus Planner | Michael Hyatt
* You Are the Brand | Mike Kim
* Expert Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Creating a Mass Movement of People Who Will Pay for Your Advice | Russell Brunson
Connect with Steven Thrasher:
* Website: https://thrashlaw.com
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsl8f-bu1LKlrGH4KKallOQ
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thrasher/
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Mar 16, 2022
#202 - Why Mary Valloni Became a Podcaster
For those of you who are or want to coach or consult, it’s my belief that you should be producing a core piece of content to help lay the foundation for you to earn a reputation in the marketplace.
It takes a while to build a relationship to earn the business from the clients you wish to serve. Through consistent content, you can hone your message for yourself. You gain clarity and position yourself as an expert in the niche you’re serving.
Me, being the curious person that I am, through this podcast, I started asking my guests their perspective on pieces of their content marketing plan.
In December, I had a conversation with Mary Valloni. Mary is a speaker, coach, and mastermind leader in the non-profit fundraising space. I knew she was a podcaster, so I asked her about it.
Listen to the clip from our conversation and you’ll learn how she further served her
Additional Resources:
* Fundraising Freedom: 7 Steps to Build and Sustain Your Next Campaign | Mary Valloni
* Fundraising Freedom Podcast
* The Fully Funded Podcast
* Fully Funded Academy
Connect with Mary Valloni
* Website: https://maryvalloni.com
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymvalloni/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marymvalloni/
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/MaryValloni
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryvalloni/
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Mar 9, 2022
#201 - Connecting the Next Generation with Debby Peters
Have you ever thought that about how you develop your network helps you both personally and professionally? The two components of living a full life are the experiences we have and the people we meet along the way.
Experiences and people allow us to gain different perspectives and we grow as individuals. I love it when I meet someone, then through them, meet someone else, then someone else. A friend of a friend of a friend is how I came to know today’s guest, Debby Peters.
After fourteen successful years as a salesperson and then sales manager, Debby moved to Toledo in 1992 and founded her first company, a traditional sales training and coaching effort. Since 2002 she has taught referral-based sales courses. In 2009 she founded Connext Nation and wrote Referral Pursuit, a course that helps business people to hone their referral relationships. In 2018 she merged with her son’s company to grow now and to continue this success for the future generation.
Ms. Peters is the author of “Tell Me Exactly What to Say” and is a contributing author to “Masters of Networking” and "Masters of Sales" and has written the eBook, “WhyWorks.”
She has been a member of BNI (Business Network International) for over 26 years and has received numerous awards as a result of her membership. Also, she was honored with the prestigious 2001 Milestone’s Award for Business and the 2015 Rocky River Chamber’s Most Active Member of the Year.
She adheres to the BNI motto of “Giver’s Gain” and her own personal business motto is, “If you don’t ask, you won’t get.” She and her son, Greg, host the Third Generation Networking Podcast.
Debby lives in Perrysburg, Ohio with her husband, and their one dog and two cats. She is a grandmother of ten having taught all her granddaughters to climb trees. She loves to create wonderful flower and vegetable gardens and also to read about and engage in adventure activities, such as white-water rafting, skiing and climbing. She mentored an inner-city student for over three years and believes that her responsibility is to give back to the community to thank those who have given help to her in the past.
Debby really lives a full life and has fun at the work she does.
In this episode you’ll learn more about Debby’s entrepreneurial journey as well as fantastic networking tips.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Additional Resources:
* Referral Pursuit 10-week course
* Mini Networking: Four Conversations to Jump-Start Your Referral Pursuit
* 21-21-21 Program
* Third Generation Podcast
* Business Network International (BNI)
* Tell Me Exactly What to Say: 33 Conversations That Will Make a Huge Impact on Your Networking Life | Debby Peters
* Never Eat Alone | Kevin Ferrazzi & Tahl Raz
Connect with Debby Peters:
* Website: https://www.connextnation.com/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/connextnation
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbypetersnetworkingguru/
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Mar 2, 2022
#200 - Adventure is Afoot
In this episode, you’ll see a glimpse of my husband and my travel adventures. This marks the 200th episode of this podcast, which is something to celebrate. In addition to celebrating that milestone, Robert and I are celebrating our wedding anniversary, another great milestone.
Share in our celebration as Robert and I share:
* What is our definition of work fun and living full?
* What is our favorite adventure we’ve had so far?
* What challenging circumstance have we faced that sticks out most in our memory?
* What are the future plans?
WARNING: Robert and I had way too much fun recording this episode. We may have gotten a bit off-topic and silly. For us, it’s worth celebrating creating a travel filled lifestyle that is fueled by work that doesn’t suck.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Connect with Robert Scrivener:
* Website: https://www.robertscrivener.com/
* Instagram: https://instagram.com/beentheredoingthat/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rvscrivener3
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources
* Scrivener Solutions | Content Plan Implementation Team: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* Free Download: Quick Content Creation Guide: The Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Your Content Creation: https://scrivenersolutions.com/checklist
playlist_add
Feb 23, 2022
#199 - Moving Businesses Forward with Michelle Szabo
Today’s guest, Michelle Szabo, is a marketing communications and creative management professional, who thrives on bringing together data analysis, technical needs, brand objectives, creative and company goals to move businesses forward.
Her company, White Light Concepts, helps businesses with their digital footprint by creating websites and marketing materials that help them communicate more clearly.
Her clients have included: ADP, American Express, Consumer Reports, Coty, International Creative Management, J. Walter Thompson, Nestlé, MTV, NHL, PepsiCo, Pfizer, School of Visual Arts, United Nations, UPS and many others.
Michelle is also a published author and columnist, speaker, teacher, has served as the Marketing Chair of Southwest Missouri SCORE, and was a board member of the Southern Missouri Arts Connection (SMAC). Currently, her free time is filled with art, music and research that helps people with loss.
Listen as she shares great tidbits on many things involved when grow…
playlist_add
Feb 16, 2022
#198 - Real Wellness with Danielle Brooks
Most people who set a New Year’s Resolution will ditch them by mid-January. And statistics show that one of the biggest resolutions has something to do with health, fitness, and wellness.
What we eat and how we move our bodies plays a big part in our lifestyle quality. It’s important to develop good habits surrounding health and wellness so that we can actually enjoy the lifestyle we’re trying to build for ourselves.
Today’s guest shares how her wellness journey turned into her lifestyle business.
Danielle Brooks is the owner of REAL Wellness. Danielle helps others achieve their wellness and weight loss goals without a “diet” mentality. Her lifestyle that she’s created for herself to live full and work fun through her wellness journey is inspiring.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook group and share your biggest takeaway from this episode.
Connect with Danielle Brooks:
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realwellnessforlife/
* Fa…
playlist_add
Feb 9, 2022
#197 - Pivoting Into Creating Life 2.0 with Tom Clairmont
You’re never too old to make a pivot in your life. Today, my guest, Thomas Clairmont shares great insights on how to create your version of Life 2.0.
Tom’s career path originally started in IT. After the fourth company buyout, both the culture and management went from bad to worse, he quit his job at the end of 2001 and started his own IT business full time in 2002.
For nine years he focused on his IT business. Now, he operates it on a part time basis as he pivots into sharing his experiences by helping other small businesses as a startup coach, earning him both active and passive income.
Tom offers coaching for those who are looking for clarity in purpose and strategy on how to start their own personal brand business. He has free tools you can use immediately to help you on your journey to self-employment. He specializes with the new, later in life entrepreneurs who get hung up on all the tech that’s now needed to get started online.
Continue the conversation. Join the Live…
playlist_add
Feb 2, 2022
#196 - Talking Relationship and Work Success with John Hulen
Work and family relationships are a big part of the success we have in our lives. Work and home lives are very much intertwined. When there’s trouble at home, it affects your work and vice versa.
Today, I have John Hulen joining me and we take a little bit of a deeper dive into discussing the relationship aspect of living full.
With nearly 30 years of experience coaching in private and non-profit sectors, John helps individuals and organizations clarify who they are, why they are here, and where they should invest their time and energy.
John has a passion for leading people to see the importance of navigating relationships—personally and professionally—and how mastery over this area can impact every aspect of life and success. As a 20-year business owner and successful entrepreneur, John specializes in working with business owners, executive leaders, managers, and team members—challenging them to think and act differently to achieve different results.
John offers 1:1 busine…
playlist_add
Jan 26, 2022
#195 - What Wasn’t Said Last Week with Paul Klein
Last week, my guest Paul Klein shared his green light journey in launching his new streaming channel, BizableTV.
During our recording of the episode, we went down a little rabbit hole that I ended up cutting out of last week's show.
I'm always curious about new tools, resources, or services to better understand how they work and different business models. Whether or not I use the tool or resource personally, I'm fascinated with the workings of it all and am amazed and inspired how people come up with new ways to help people solve a problem and build their business.
After re-listening to the scrap audio clip, I changed my mind about sharing it because I thought you would find it helpful. You’ll hear how I was struggling to wrap my head around how it was all done. I tried comparing the service that Paul used to launch BizableTV to my Scrivener Solutions business model. I was admittedly way off base with the comparison.
Listen to take a peek behind the scenes of how a service like U…
playlist_add
Jan 19, 2022
#194 - How BizableTV Became a Reality with Paul Klein
Toward the end of 2021, I was poking around in my podcasts app on my phone one morning that I noticed a branding change in the Pricing is Positioning with Paul Klein show. Now it is called BizableTV. Of course, I was curious about what was new with Paul and what the heck BizableTV was all about.
As I listened to his episode 97, I can't tell you how excited I was about his new project. What I learned was that he was launching a brand-new streaming channel sharing stories of freedom-seeking individuals like you and me. The show is geared, as the name implies, toward business. The guests featured are those who have built their own six to seven figure one-person businesses.
After listening, I hopped over to BizableTV.com, clicked on the catalog link, and watched the intro video. Then I signed up for free access to see what the sample stories were all about. I've watch what episodes have come out so far and am impressed as well as motivated and inspired to keep going in living full a…
playlist_add
Jan 12, 2022
#193 - From Magazine Editor to Published Author with Dayna Ault
Several years ago, when I was a member of a networking group local to Springfield MO, I had met some amazing people doing some pretty cool things. And today's guest is no exception. She's pretty amazing!
Dayna Ault is a well-established writer, editor, and author. Her articles appear in many parenting, religious and literary journals, newsletters, and "best of" compilations, all penned while parenting her eight children.
Her children's book, Benjamin's Coin Purse, was published by Rod & Staff Publishers in 2001. Several children later, she began a non-profit organization to support her magazine, the Missouri Autism Report. She wrote, edited, and published the magazine, supported by autism organizations Missouri-wide, for seven years.
Now, with an empty nest looming, she has launched herself into, writing Christian books with historical and spiritual value, for all ages. Dayna's desire is to leave a legacy, which points, unabashedly, to Christ. Dayna serves as a City Alderwoma…
playlist_add
Jan 5, 2022
#192 - Confidently Branding to Achieve Work From Anywhere Success with Lyss House
Alyssa Houseknecht is a brand strategist and consultant, helping small businesses create confident designs that produce income and impact. She creates captivating brands for the modern entrepreneur.
Lyss and I tucked ourselves away at an event to have a conversation of similar paths. She had graduated college and was expected to go the traditional career path. Although she had the skills and worked hard in the roles she was hired for, something was amiss. She felt like a square peg trying to fit into a round hole.
Through the grind of figuring out her place in a corporate job, she found joy in graphic design and branding as a side gig. Then, one day, she was let go from her day job. Instead of letting the shame of being fired consume her, she made the decision to create a work from anywhere lifestyle and make her side hustle her full-time gig.
In this episode, you’ll be inspired by Lyss’s story of courage to go after a career of her dreams. You’ll hear how she helps her client…
playlist_add
Jan 2, 2022
Welcome to Live Full Work Fun
Hi, I'm Gayla Scrivener. Welcome to Live Full Work Fun. This is the show to encourage you to live your life to the fullest and do fun work that fuels your lifestyle. Since work is a big part of our lives, you've landed in the right spot if you believe work shouldn't have to suck the life out of you, but instead, be the catalyst of creating your dream lifestyle.
What breaks my heart is seeing folks stuck and unhappy in a career feeling like life is passing them by. I was there. But then, I took the leap and left a career of 20-years to focus on a life full of experiences.
I had worked my way up the corporate ladder in a 20-year career in the medical management field. Then, the news came that the company I was working for would be shutting down.
I was at a crossroads. I could stay in a career I grew unhappy in or I could do something totally different. I could take a risk and leave the only career path I knew and figure out how I could earn a living that was more joyful…
playlist_add
Dec 29, 2021
#191 - Ending This Show & What’s Next
Something has been brewing for quite some time and in today’s episode, I reveal why I’m ending The Gayla Scrivener Show and what’s next in 2022.
I’m always fascinated by learning from other’s experiences and perspectives. I’m amazed at how many different ways people live a full life and find work that’s fun for them and feeds their lifestyle.
My core belief is that we all have the opportunity to live our lives to it’s fullest and earn a living that sparks joy to move us through life’s adventure.
Life is a wonderful adventure… it’s meant to explore.
Listen and you’ll learn my journey of my decision of leaving The Gayla Scrivener Show behind and stepping into the new branding of the show starting in 2022.
Additional Resources:
* Join the Live Full Work Fun Facebook Group
* Live Life Rich with Marissa Nehlsen | Show Me The Money Series
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascr…
playlist_add
Dec 22, 2021
#190 - Gain Traction for Big Growth in 2022
Books can have a tremendous impact on us personally and professionally. That’s why in most of my interview episodes I ask my guest what book or resource has made the most impact on them. You can find many of the books mentioned in past episodes by going to the resource section of my website.
In today’s episode, I share the book that, by implementing its lessons, I attribute to a major turning point in operating Scrivener Solutions.
I discovered Gino Wickman’s book Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business early in 2021. In this episode, I share how I was at a crossroads in my decision in implementing practices outlined in the book. I was faced with the possibility of key staff members leaving. Should I invest the time, energy, and money into having them learn Traction with me to grow the business just to have them leave?
The way the book is outlined is a great guidebook to, if practiced consistently, truly makes a difference in the growth of any company at any size. I’ve recomme…
playlist_add
Dec 15, 2021
#189 - Building Small Business Ecosystems with Mary Overbey
I love having conversations with people at various stages of their business. You learn many fascinating things and gain unique perspectives on why they do what they do, what jazzes them, and know that they too have struggles.
Sometimes it’s easy to feel like you’re all alone in your journey and the resources are scarce to make your dream lifestyle a reality.
Way back in, probably, 2015 I met a wonderfully vibrant person. After that first meeting, I was always delighted to see her at other networking events. Over the years, we had lost touch. I was scrolling my LinkedIn feed and saw her and realized that she started her own consulting business. I was curious to see what she was up to now and asked her to come join us on today’s show.
In this episode, you’ll meet Mary Overbey.
Mary works as an ecosystem builder, a small business consultant, a micro loan broker, and a non-profit consultant. Borealis Consulting, LLC was born to bridge gaps identified within the small business e…
playlist_add
Dec 8, 2021
#188 - Why Implementing is Hard
It’s the season of making plans for the new year. Making plans is so much fun. It’s like strategic daydreaming.
Planning is essential in business growth. You, as your business leader, must create the vision of how your future self will be.
Creating the picture of the future of what you’d like to see happen, where you’d like to go, what you’d like to do to serve your community is an exhilarating feeling.
Once your plans are in place, then it’s time to implement. Reality sets in. You remember that the planning part is easy. It’s the implementation that’s the hard part.
In this episode, I touch on points that are plan implementation obstacles.
I’d love to hear from you and what you have in mind for implementing your 2022 plans.
Schedule a time for a 30-minute conversation. Not a sales call. Let’s talk out your plan and perhaps through our conversation, you’ll get some ideas to keep you on target for successful implementation.
Connect with Gayla:
* Website:…
playlist_add
Dec 1, 2021
#187 - Achieving Fundraising Freedom with Mary Valloni
Mary Valloni is a coach, trainer, and author who helps nonprofit leaders raise more funds and marketplace leaders give more funds.
Mary is the former Development Director for Special Olympics, the ALS Association, and the American Cancer Society. With over 20 years of fundraising experience, she has coached thousands of individuals and organizations through her proven 7-step process.
Mary is the award-winning author of the book, Fundraising Freedom, the co-founder of Fully Funded Academy, and co-host of the Fully Funded Podcast.
Her vision is to end the lack and scarcity mindset for those in the nonprofit sector and for those wanting to do more charitable giving.
Listen and learn what made her take the big leap from working for one of the biggest nonprofit organizations to starting her own consultancy.
Connect with Mary Valloni
* Website: https://maryvalloni.com
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymvalloni/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marymvalloni/
* Twitt…
playlist_add
Nov 24, 2021
#186 - How to Implement a Quick Content Plan for Consistent Publishing
The Scrivener Solutions team implement our client’s content marketing plan. All our clients can work from anywhere. They’ve created their businesses where they aren’t geographically tied to an office. They are flexible with their time and are strategic in deciding who they serve.
Our clients are at different levels of business growth and have different marketing strategies. Some of our clients are online course creators, some are speakers, and some are business consultants. They may use some of the same tools and tactics, however, each of their plans we help implement have a few differences.
But what is definitely the same with all of our clients and what steers them to success is they all publish consistently.
If you’ve listened to this show for any amount of time, you’ve heard me say that you must be consistent in publishing. I’m not just saying that just to be saying it. It’s true!
The heart of the reason why you should be creating consistent content to grow your b…
playlist_add
Nov 17, 2021
#185 - What a Horse Can Teach Us About Ourselves with Lora Newman
I love to learn about other people just like you and me who are making their lifestyle business work. We have the chance to learn about their journey and what they do that jazzes them to keep building their own lifestyle business.
Today, you’re in for a special treat because you’ll be meeting Lora Newman.
Lora is the founder and CEO of Zero2Sixty Performance Coaching, the world’s premier equine assisted leadership coaching and training organization, referred to as “Tony Robbins with horses”, Lora and her team combine knowledge and expertise in business training, mental health, animal behavior, and business coaching to provide dynamic programs for both individuals and corporate teams that are designed to deliver rapid results.
Lora partners with horses, tapping into their wisdom and honest feedback, to show leaders where they need to strengthen strategy and communication dynamics for greater results. Her work helps her clients breakthrough barriers, increase thinking perfor…
playlist_add
Nov 10, 2021
#184 - The Realities of Internet Coverage When Working From Anywhere
This episode was recorded as I was traveling and experiencing first-hand the realities of working from anywhere.
What sparked the episode topic was a friend of mine is so excited to be getting a little RV and asked me how Robert and I managed to stay connected to the internet when traveling. In fact, over the past several months, many folks have asked us how we stay connected as they look into RV living.
In today’s episode, I thought I'd share my experience and stories of staying connected to the internet and working from anywhere realities. This perspective can be helpful whether you want to venture out and do some RVing or just enjoying more travel.
Robert and I started our travel lifestyle in our 38-foot Alfa SeeYa diesel pusher RV in 2011. Although we don’t travel much in our RV lately (because we travel and camp in much smaller vehicles) we still have quite a bit of experience when it comes to juggling work and travel.
The main thing we’ve learned over the years is that…
playlist_add
Nov 3, 2021
#183 - How to Train Your Brain to Take Control of Stress with Diane Wolf
Sometimes conversations don’t always take the path that was planned. I love when that happens because that’s when you learn even more allowing ideas to flow. That’s what happened today’s guest.
A few weeks ago, I reconnected with Diane Wolf. I met Diane in Franklin TN as we both attended Ray Edwards Copywriting Academy Live event. We sat at the same table and spent a lot of time learning from one another.
Over the four years, we had lost touch and I reached out to reconnect. What I thought would be a little conversation to hear about how she had pivoted her business turned out to be a wealth of information to help alleviate the stresses of life.
Diane Wolf is a psychotherapist and educator in private practice. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and works primarily with first responders and front-line professionals who have been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In her role as an educator, she delivers online courses to help people manage stress…
playlist_add
Oct 27, 2021
#182 - Principles for Sustainable Success with Frank Spevak
“Plans are useless, but planning is indispensable,” - Dwight D. Eisenhower
Success is one thing. But obtaining long-lasting sustainable business success is another.
My guest, Frank Spevak has the formula to not only obtain success, but keep that success over the long haul.Frank is a speaker, online educator, author and business coach. He trains business owners howto quickly develop marketing skills and business strategies necessary to future proof their business.
Before running his own business, Frank worked as Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of a successful multi-million-dollar technology company in Minnesota. He left his corporate job at the end of 2019 and started his new business just as the pandemic was about to start. In hindsight, maybe it wasn’t the best time to start something new, but really... who knew what was going to happen? When is there a best time, right?
You’ll love Frank’s story and hearing how he has used his principles for long and sustainable succe…
playlist_add
Oct 20, 2021
#181 - The Great Resignation : Getting What You Want Out of Work | Part 3 of 3
This week, I’m wrapping up the three-part series about the Great Resignation with Genesis Eakes and Linda Guild. Each one of us has our unique perspective about the phenomena and what the future holds.
If you’re tuning in for the first time, or missed the last two weeks, be sure to go back and listen.
People in droves are leaving their jobs to find something better. In 2011, I left a career because I was burnt out and unhappy. I wanted more out of life. I chose to create a business to fit a lifestyle of travel. It wasn’t the easiest path, but I do have to say it has been rewarding.
The pandemic had bought about a mass mindset shift of people wanting something more out of life and demanding a new way of earning a living. There are more opportunities than ever to choose what lifestyle we want to live.
The collective mindset shift is disrupting how organizations are motivating their teams and how employees are finding creative ways to earn a living.
This episode is the third an…
playlist_add
Oct 13, 2021
#180 - The Great Resignation Conversation from Three Unique Perspectives | Part 2 of 3
People in droves are leaving their jobs to find something better.You cannot go very far before you see a “We’re Hiring” sign. “The Great Resignation” is here and it’s affecting all of us in one way or another.
The pandemic had bought about a mass mindset shift of people wanting something more out of life and demanding a new way of earning a living.
Companies everywhere are scrambling to figure out how to cope with a mass exodus. Online influencers have courses and webinars to teach you how to do what I did and build your own online business. Not everyone wants to be an entrepreneur, so they are making career changes.
This episode is the second of three where my friends and colleagues Genesis Eakes, Linda Guild, and I discuss how organizations, employees, and solopreneurs can navigate these new workplace waters. Each of us have our unique perspective of what we’re seeing and how it’s affecting the marketplace, our clients, and even our friends and families.
CEO of Ge…
playlist_add
Oct 6, 2021
#179 - The Great Resignation Conversation from Three Unique Perspectives | Part 1 of 3
“The Great Resignation” is here. People in droves are leaving their jobs to find something better.
According to an Inc. article:
“… during the months of April, May, and June 2021, a total of 11.5 million workers quit their jobs. Recent studies indicate that it's likely not over. A survey of over 30,000 workers conducted by Microsoft found that 41 percent are considering quitting; that number jumps to 54 percent when Gen-Z is considered alone. Gallup found that 48 percent of employees are actively searching for new opportunities. And Persio reported that 38 percent of those they surveyed planned to make a change in the next six months.”
I believe that we all can earn a living that gives us the freedom to create the lifestyle of our dreams. Everyone’s vision of what their dream lifestyle is different.
Back in 2011, my dream was to leave a career where I felt stifled to create a business where I could have the flexibility in schedule and freedom to work from anywhere. I w…
playlist_add
Sep 30, 2021
#178 - Wake Up Your Magic with Susan Guild
Creativity involves breaking out of established patterns in order to look at things in a different way. --Edward de Bono
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been accused of being a workaholic. I do admit that, on occasion, I will allow work to consume my days leaving little room for anything else. Today’s guest, Susan Guild teaches us to Wake Up Your Magic by tapping into your creative mind. Sharing the power of creativity and making people's lives better is her number one passion.
In this episode, Susan teaches us how to get out of our “over-thinking” minds to wake up the magic within ourselves.
* Set the tone of feeling good
* Keep things simple
* Recognize your patterns
* Create your vision
* Allow it to come
My conversation with Susan really inspired me to remember to take the time to pause and be creative. Pick up those crafty and artistic things that spark joy and enjoy the moment. Learn a new creative skill to shake out the cobwebs of the mind and be inspire…
playlist_add
Sep 22, 2021
#177 - Courageously Connecting Businesses with Kat Williams
We’re continuing our series about networking with a conversation with my good friend Kat Williams. She’s the owner of a local to the Springfield MO area business networking group called Courageous Business Connect.
I met Kat many years ago at the beginning of my entrepreneurial journey. She's so bubbly and pours out positivity everywhere she goes. People seem to gravitate to Kat. To me, she seems to be the most well-connected person around Springfield.
I admire Kat in many ways. She is a naturally curious individual, non-judgmental, and brings out the best in everyone.
Kat and I originally met in a local referral networking group. She was heavily involved in the group, helping grow it to thousands of members and dozens of chapters in the Southwest Missouri & Northwest Arkansas regions.
Over time, an idea began to percolate of a different kind of group. A group that would offer more than standing up for a quick elevator pitch & reporting numbers of referrals passed.
There was n…
playlist_add
Sep 15, 2021
#176 - Podcast Movement 2021 Experience
In keeping with this month's series about networking, today’s episode is about my networking intentions when I attended Podcast Movement 2021 in Nashville, TN at the beginning of August.
It was my first live conference since 2019. I had become accustomed to not going to these types of events. Like most everyone on the planet, I didn't go to any business live events in the last 18 months or more. Of course, because we were all on lock-down!
As an introvert, I prefer small groups and love my alone time. But I was excited to finally attend a LIVE event.
I know me and I needed to have some intention of meeting new people at the conference, or I'd hide out in the shadows and just listen.
Here were my intentions:
* Meet, in person, past podcast guests and other online friends who were also attending
* Go to break-away sessions, sit next to someone I didn’t know, and strike up a conversation
* Meet a presenter or two and show my gratitude of what I learned from them
* Follow-…
playlist_add
Sep 8, 2021
#175 - The Reluctant Networker with Greg Peters
Have you ever felt a little “reluctant” when it comes to networking? I know I have. As an introvert, it can be daunting to go out and do the whole networking thing. It feels awkward and sometimes forced.
My guest, Greg Peters, totally understands. A computer programmer by training, Greg was the original reluctant networker. Through study, practice, and lots of trial and error, he has been able to transform himself into a true networking professional, using the skills he learned to build a thriving Web development business.
Now, as the co-founder of Third Generation Networking, Greg coaches individuals, trains staff, and presents to associations and other groups on how to get past their reluctance and start building better connections and stronger networks.
Greg is a past Chapter President of the National Speakers Association, the author of HELLO AND A HANDSHAKE: A RELUCTANT NETWORKER’S GUIDE TO SURVIVAL AND SUCCESS AT YOUR NEXT BUSINESS GATHERING, and the co-host of the THI…
playlist_add
Sep 1, 2021
#174 - How Face - to - Face Networking Can Jumpstart Your Online Business
Just because you’re building an online business so that you may not be tied down geographically and can work from practically anywhere, doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t do any face-to-face networking.
In this episode, I share how belonging to a professional networking group early in my entrepreneurial journey jump started my business.
Key things to remember when joining a networking group:
* Attendance matter
* Active participation helps others see your talents in action
* Non-judgmental observation provides valuable lessons
Before joining any networking group, make sure you are all in and will, at a minimum, commit to showing up to every meeting. After all, showing up is a form of participation.
Get out from behind your computer and face-to-face network. It’s worth it to jumpstart your business to the next level.
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.faceb…
playlist_add
Aug 25, 2021
#173 - Marketing and Mindset... a Conversation with Nick Carita
Becoming an entrepreneur is no easy feat. There's something to learning the right frame of mind to build a successful business. On top of that, marketing is even another level of thinking. Not only must you tap into what your prospects wants and needs are, you must nail down how to effectively communicate who you are, what you stand for, and how you help.
In this episode, Nick Carita, owner of Red Letter Creative joins me to talk “shop.” Some may consider Nick and I competitors since we both own companies who do digital marketing.
We don’t see each other that way at all. We learn from each other. Our business models are different. Although some of our offerings are similar, many services go in different directions. In short... although we both do digital marketing... we do different things.
After 12+ years working in professional sports, Nick decided to follow his budding passion for marketing. Now, with 11+ years of experience, Nick owns his own creative agency called Red Let…
playlist_add
Aug 18, 2021
#172 - My Go To Tool for Staff Training | Screencast-o-matic
I think my team is pretty amazing. And to have them working at their best, communication is important. Leading a virtual team has its challenges when it comes to communication.
Scrivener Solutions uses different communication tools to build our virtual teamwork environment. Each tool serves its specific purpose.
This week’s podcast focuses on our use of Screencast-o-matic when it comes to staff training. Although there are other screen recording and editing software on the market, my go to is Screencast-o-matic.
The reasons:
* Affordability
* Ease of Use
I can’t tell you how many hundreds of videos I’ve created to help me communicate ideas, how-tos, and map out problems solving for issues that arise and share with my team. The problem that I ran into over the years was filing them in an organized and consistent fashion that would be easy to refer back to.
In this episode, I share how David Jenyns’ book, SYSTEMology helped make things click for me and how we’re makin…
playlist_add
Aug 11, 2021
#171 - How a Personal Miracle Turned Around His Business with David Robertson
When it comes to building a business, most people spend years or even decades figuring out how to grow their business AND get the freedom they really want.
That’s why I asked David Robertson, master business coach and marketing strategist to this week’s show. David helps business owners achieve their goals faster, increase their profit by at least 68% per year, and build high-performing teams, so they can free up time for themselves and their family to focus on and do what matters most for their long-term personal and professional success.
David provides high-intensity business coaching and training on the Growthpoint Framework, which is a blueprint for growing & scaling service businesses.
Growing up, David watched his dad build the largest producing insurance agency in two states. From the outside looking in, life was great. The reality was quite different. His dad was overworked, frustrated and burned out. It all came crashing down while he was in high school. His dad closed…
playlist_add
Aug 4, 2021
#170 - The Unglamorous Truth About Work From Anywhere Lifestyle
Building a lifestyle business and working from anywhere isn’t as glamorous as what you may see in your Instagram feed.
When you’re seeing perfect images of someone lounging on the beach, cocktail in hand, toes in the sand, and computer on their lap “working” it’s easy to be discouraged if your life doesn’t look that way. You may be thinking you’re doing it wrong.
There may be glimpses of toes in the sand working moments, but the reality can be much different and not so pretty.
There are challenges to figure out when it comes to working from anywhere. I’m about ready to embark on a season of travel. Listen to this week’s podcast as I highlight six of the challenges that I’ll be addressing.
* Weather
* Noise
* Communication
* Motivation
* Scheduling
* Productivity
As with anything in life, there’s good with the bad. For me, I embrace the challenges that come my way and embrace the freedom to figure them out so that I may have the opportunity to live…
playlist_add
Jul 28, 2021
#169 - How Not to Get Screwed by Your Lawyer with Daniela Liscio
Daniela Liscio is a writer, business consultant, corporate lawyer, and creator of How Not To Get Screwed By Your Lawyer, the workshop designed to help business people better manage the relationship with their lawyer to save themselves money and stress.
Daniela spent 12 years as a corporate lawyer both in her hometown of Toronto, Canada and in New York City working on mergers and acquisitions, financings, private equity investments and corporate reorganizations. In 2013 she left New York City for the Ozark Mountains to be with her guy Dan whom she met coming down from the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro in Africa. She started her consulting business to help small businesses better strategize for long term success through online courses, fun copywriting, and more effective sales strategy. In addition to her consulting work, Daniela is in the process of writing her first book called How Not To Get Screwed By Your Lawyer.
Daniela and I first met through an online course and we happened to join…
playlist_add
Jul 21, 2021
#168 - The Missing Piece That Stunts Business Growth
Often, business growth is stunted because there's a disconnect between the vision and the doing part of what it takes to see the vision through.
As a small business owner, I’m sure you feel like you must do everything. Everything seems to be on your shoulders.
The longer we're in business and the more we grow, the more important it becomes to have systems in place. You have the vision... but it takes systems and implementing those systems to make the vision a reality.
An implementer is the bridge between the vision and the front-line doers. They are the translators, the trainers, the creators, and the jugglers. Their attention to details and holistic view of what must be done moves vision to reality.
Listen as I share a couple of examples of what could happen with and without an implementer.
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywh…
playlist_add
Jul 14, 2021
#167 - You’re Not Weird if You Want to Be Different
Do you ever feel weird or out of place when you're trying to do your own thing? Weird for starting your online business when everyone around you thinks you should be looking for that traditional job. Weird for wanting to pursue your dreams. Weird for wanting to live and work from anywhere?
Well if so... know this... you're not alone.
Last week, brand specialist, Mike Kim joined me as we discussed different aspects of growing a business around your personal expertise and ideas.
Mike, very much like me, left the corporate world to create his own lifestyle business. During our conversation I had with him, I asked what his biggest challenge was in starting his personal brand business.
Instead of including the clip in last week's episode, I pulled it out to feature his answer separately. Listen as you may find his response resonating with you as much as it did with me.
Enjoy!
Additional Resources:
* Mike Kim | Personal Brand Expert, Speaker, Podcaster
* You Are The Brand | Book…
playlist_add
Jul 7, 2021
#166 - Talking Why You Are the Brand with Mike Kim
Personal brand is much bigger and all-encompassing than a logo, a color palette, a nice-looking website, and business cards. Your personal brand is the image you put forth both online and offline.
Your values, unique skills, experiences, stories, personality, and image make up who you are and what you stand for.
More than ever, people are building thriving businesses around personal brands. Some struggle while others earn 6-or 7-figure incomes.
In today’s episode, I have a conversation with brand strategist, Mike Kim. Mike outlines some of his 8-step blueprint to showcase your unique expertise and build a highly profitable, personally fulfilling business.
The full blueprint is shared in Mike’s book “You Are The Brand.” Mike's refreshing approach has made him a sought-after speaker, online educator, and consultant for top rated leaders like John Maxwell, Donald Miller, and Daniel G. Amen, MD.
Mike has been featured in and written for Inc., Entrepreneur, and The Huffington P…
playlist_add
Jun 30, 2021
#165 - How Slowing Down Will Scale Up Your Business
You must slow down to scale up. That concept seems counterintuitive, doesn’t it?
On the contrary, slowing down is exactly what you should be doing if you’re looking to scale your business.
You can't be on that hamster wheel of always trying to cram in more work into your day. Hamster wheels go nowhere. They're just spinning in circles. The faster you run; the faster the wheel goes yet you’re still staying in one place. All you get is tired.
Once you slow down and get off that hamster wheel that’s when you go places.
When you're growing your business, there will come a time when you'll feel stretched so thin that you don't know how you can possibly do everything. The key is that you won't do everything. Not by yourself anyway. During this growth period, it's going to be extremely important to tug on the reigns a bit of being busy and refrain from pushing to do more in your workday.
To slow down is much easier said than done. Especially when your to-do list is a mile long. B…
playlist_add
Jun 23, 2021
#164 - Golden Rule of Email Marketing
The Golden Rule is the principle of treating others as you'd want to be treated. The golden rule really should be remembered in practically everything we do.
It’s easy in our digital world to feel detached. In this episode, I share one simple concept to remember that will help guide you when it comes to writing emails to your list.
Behind every email is a person.
When it comes to writing emails, if you always think of ONE person and speak to them as if they were in the room with you, you will resonate with many on your list.
Sure, you may miss the mark with some individuals, but you'll be on target for many. Trust your gut and frame your email message like a conversation that you'd have in person with that ONE individual.
Set up your systems to include value driven emails sent on a consistent basis.
Your nurturing series should be a staple of your email marketing plan to keep your relationship building foundation strong.
Then, when you do have a special event, a course, coachi…
playlist_add
Jun 16, 2021
#163 - Keeping Your Passwords Organized and Safe
Password management is a necessary evil. You must have a password for every account you have online. It can be tough to keep track of it all.
We’re never 100% safe when it comes to password security. Hackers everywhere are looking for new and creative ways to cause havoc to our world. The best we can do is to implement best practices and always learning new ways to help protect ourselves and our clients’ information. At the same time, we must find ways to make our processes easy and efficient.
In this episode, I share how I organize not only my passwords to keep me efficient, but also how I do my due diligence in keeping my client’s passwords safe.
Additional Resources:
* Taming the Chaos of Passwords | Podcast
* 5 Questions You Must Ask Yourself Before Sharing Your Passwords | Podcast
* Last Pass | Scrivener Solutions Resource
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: htt…
playlist_add
Jun 9, 2021
#162 - You Must Downsize to Make Room to Grow
As I was looking at the memories that were popping up on my Facebook feed, I came across the pictures that Robert took of our massive yard sale back in 2011. Looking at those photos made me realize that every time we saw growth, we first downsized.
Our dream was to break away from the traditional lifestyle that we knew for a lifestyle that awarded us the freedom to be more nomadic. We wanted to have a work from anywhere lifestyle.
That sale to downsize our possessions got us closer to living our dream. Freeing ourselves from those things that were in the way of making our dream a reality was such a liberating experience.
Listen as I share more about what else we’ve downsized to allow growth in both our professional and personal lives. Maybe my downsizing experiences will inspire you to think of areas where you can let go to make room for growth.
Additional Resource:
* A lighter load... downsizing to live in our RV | Been There Doing That
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: http…
playlist_add
Jun 2, 2021
#161 - Does Delegating Your Social Media Make Your Posts Less Personal?
To leverage your time, it’s smart to outsource your social media management. You may fear that once you delegate your social posts, that your messaging will no longer be uniquely you.Your social feed will no longer be as personal.
In this episode, I cover three points when it comes to keeping your social feed personal, both from a business owner and an agency point of view.
Highlights:
* Focus on your core piece of content.
* Stay in communication with your social media manager.
* Create shared systems of engagement.
Whether you're posting everything yourself or outsourcing, your social feed can either be one that is intentional, engaging, entertaining, and helpful, or your posts could be like throwing spaghetti at the wall.
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Con…
playlist_add
May 26, 2021
#160 - Easy Three Step Marketing Plan That Builds a Strong Platform Foundation
An essential part of growing any business is planning AND implementing your marketing strategy. Without marketing, you won't have a sustainable business. You must be able to attract your ideal client and maintain a steady flow of business or cash flow.
Show highlights:
Three reasons why most solopreneurs just starting out have trouble establishing a good marketing plan.
* Not focused
* Not consistent
* Not persistent
A manageable marketing plan to put you on the right foot for building your online platform includes these three steps.
* Publish a blog every other week.
* Daily post on ONE social platform.
* Email your list every other week.
Listen to the episode for details of the plan. This is very doable for any solopreneur no matter how busy you may be.
Once your rhythm has been established, you’re successful at posting consistently, and you a regaining more clarity in your messaging, build on what you’ve started. Don’t be too quick to change and shift. You…
playlist_add
May 19, 2021
#159 - Seeing Opportunity Through Adversity
Just a few years ago, many people thought the concept of working from anywhere would be totally out of reach for them. The pandemic totally opened so many possibilities for remote work.
Through the adversity that 2020 brought us, there also are a vast number of opportunities that have opened up to create a work from anywhere lifestyle. There has been a mindset shift in the workforce and in corporations that pave the way for making a freedom lifestyle possible.
In this episode, I share hownow is the perfect time to create your work from anywhere lifestyle.
Additional Resources:
* 20 Work from Anywhere Job List
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cha…
playlist_add
May 12, 2021
#158 - How a Podcast Launch is Like Childbirth
Podcast production can be likened to the birth and raising of a child. At least that’s how my friend, Dr. Michelle Deering pictures it. Leave it to a mother-daughter relationship specialist to make that type of analogy.
Michelle has often called me her “podcast midwife” guiding her through the birth of her hit podcast, Mother Daughter Connections. It was an honor to give her help when and where she needed it so that she could leap over the hurdles that were before her.
As with the birth of a child, the work doesn’t stop there. You must care for and nurture the little bundle of joy for the child to grow and mature.
The same holds true for podcast production. Launching is just the beginning. Continued work and care must be done for the show to grow and mature. In this episode, I share a clip of a conversation Michelle and I had where she gives her perspective of what it takes to self-produce a podcast.
Enjoy!
Additional Resources:
* Mother Daughter Connections | Podcast…
playlist_add
May 5, 2021
#157 - Turning Mother Daughter Connections into a Non-Traditional Entrepreneurial Journey with Dr. Michelle Deering
Dr. Michelle Deering is no stranger to entrepreneurship. She had been running a traditional clinical office for years, but Dr. Deering is a curious individual. Traditional was not where she fit in.
Dr. Deering believes that every mother and daughter should have a thriving loving relationship. Her passion on the subject led her to writing her book “What Mothers Never Tell Their Daughters” then down the path of opening her non-traditional office to serve the world. Her refreshing approach has made her a sought-after speaker, online educator, and consultant.
Before running her consulting business, Michelle served as a licensed psychologist and board-certified sport psychologist at a BIG-10 University, a Fortune 500 corporate trainer, and a higher education professional.
Nowadays you’ll find her speaking at conferences, training for her next Reebok Spartan Sprint Race, and practicing rudiments on her drum kit — all while coaching, serving clients, and recording her hit podcast,…
playlist_add
Apr 28, 2021
#156 - A Sad Day, But Grateful
playlist_add
Apr 21, 2021
#155 - Tipping Point Toward Action
Usually, to take significant action in our lives, there's a trigger moment. I’m sure you can lookback on your life and see specific events that made such an impression on you, that in a moment you had a mindset shift. You were determined to make a change. You arrived at the tipping point into taking action.
In this episode, I share two significant events that changed the trajectory of my life and eventually led me to taking action to creating the lifestyle I truly wanted.
For you... what have been your tipping points? I'd love to hear from you. Drop me a note at podcast@gaylascrivener.com.
Are you on the verge of wanting change... but resolving that you're stuck in a career that you are unhappy in? You really don't have to wait until pushed to take the leap of change.
You can take action.
Additional Resources:
* 20 Work From Anywhere Job Ideas | Complimentary Download
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/…
playlist_add
Apr 14, 2021
#154 - Plans Are Only Achieved Through Implementation
Most individuals who say they are sick and tired of their day jobs and want a different lifestyle will choose to stay miserable and stuck. It’s easier to stay put in doing what you know than venture out and do something different to find what you do love.
Plans are only achieved to the degree in which you IMPLEMENT!
Achieving the freedom lifestyle you desire isn’t easy and achieved overnight. It does take work. It takes diligence. It takes implementation of your plan.
What plan is on your mind right now?
Is it to leave your day job? Is it to find remote work or start your own business? Is it to downsize and have a nomadic travel adventure? Is it to scale your business?
Have you taken the first steps in implementation? Are you taking at least one step each and every day? Are you staying consistent? Are you staying diligent?
In the coming weeks, I'm going to share more of my journey of what got me here and how I'm implementing plans for the future.
Many of the topics will circ…
playlist_add
Apr 7, 2021
#153 - Cooking Up a New Career with Fran Groesbeck
Fran Groesbeck had taken her over 29 year of housewares industry experience and took the leap into becoming her own boss. She pushed through her fears of leaving a steady paycheck to create the business and lifestyle that had been living in her dreams.
She uses her experience that includes product development, sourcing, manufacturing, and retail marketing into her marketing company, Ten Touch Creative Agency. She pairs the best of both worlds–strong technical knowledge and understanding of the housewares industry and applications, with strong creative and problem-solving skills to find the right solution for the challenge at hand for her clients.
Fran has recently been selected as the new Managing Director of the Cookware Manufacturers Association where she is embarking on another dream career adventure.
In this episode, Fran shares her challenges of starting her business and growing at a rate faster than she ever imagined. She also shares great nuggets of marketing wisdom.
Enjoy…
playlist_add
Mar 31, 2021
#152 - What You Need to Know to Launch Your Own Podcast
There are many great reasons to start a podcast, five of which are...
* People are listening.
* Make a more personal connection with audience.
* You position yourself as an expert in your niche.
* Build your network.
* Potential to make money.
The first and foremost thing you need to do before you start your podcast is to really evaluate your why.
Although the above reasons are valid reasons to start a podcast, you should have a deeper and more personal why.
Producing a podcast is not for everyone and you must come up with your unique and personal reasons. My reasons may be different than yours. Understanding and staying focused on your why will help you get through the tough hurdles that arise and the drudgery of routine.
In this episode, I review the basic set-up procedures in starting your own podcast. Be sure to email podcast@gaylascrivener.com if you are facing hurdles starting your own podcast.
Additional Resources:
* Podcast Checklist Download
* Libsyn
* 5…
playlist_add
Mar 24, 2021
#151 - Talking Podcast Gear with Robert Scrivener
When it comes to recording and producing a podcast, there is a certain amount of gear you need. In this episode, I bring my sound engineer (and hubby), Robert Scrivener to the show as we talk about the equipment I use to record this show.
The basics are:
* Microphone
* Headphones
* Recording Device
* Editing Software
Below are links to the gear we mention in the episode.
Enjoy!
Go to Gayla Scrivener Blog to see Gear Mentioned
Additional Resources Mentioned:
* Zoom.us
* Adobe Audition
* Podcast Checklist | Complementary Download | Receive the detailed checklist the Scrivener Solutions Team uses to produce each podcast episode
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/
Content Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* YouTu…
playlist_add
Mar 17, 2021
Lessons Learned To Get to Podcast #150
I remember vividly the day that I made the decision to become a podcaster. It was the day that I was casually talking with Cliff Ravenscraft at a conference and he pushed me over the edge(in a good way).
He motivated me to take the plunge and do it. Was it easy peasy? I’d have to say... no.
Was it worth it? ABSOLUTELY. In this episode, I share my top three growing lessons I’ve learned by starting this podcast.
Enjoy!
Additional Resources:
* Ray Edwards | Copywriting Academy Live
* Cliff Ravenscraft
* Been There Doing That Podcast
* Penzu | Journaling App
* Podcast Checklist | Download
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/Content
Marketing Resources:
* Scrivener Solutions: https://scrivenersolutions.com/
* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXn6GdZ…
playlist_add
Mar 10, 2021
#149 - The Problem With the S.M.A.R.T. Goal Concept with Marshall Townsend II
We’ve all heard of S.M.A.R.T. goals. S for Specific. M for measurable. A for attainable. R for relevant. T for Time-based.
In this episode, Marshall Townsend II joins me as we dive into talking about the right way in setting goals. I was a bit surprised at first with his take on the S.M.A.R.T. goal concept. S.M.A.R.T. goals have been drilled into us forever. Marshall takes us onto a different journey when it comes to goal setting.
Marshall Townsend II is a Professional Leadership Coach, Mentor, Speaker, and Retired Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) whose passion for and dedication to empowering others have earned him the reputation as a service-centered leader within his community. Over the course of two decades, he has gained extensive coaching experience (as well as another two decades of leadership expertise in the army), helping thousands of people thrive along the way.
Marshall’s affinity for helping people has been lifelong, but the spark for coaching entered his life during his mi…
playlist_add
Mar 3, 2021
#148 - 5 Practical Ways to Grow Your Email List
Chances are, you probably already know that you should be growing your email list. If not, then, I'm telling you, you should be growing your email list.
There are many elements when it comes to content marketing but growing your email list should be your top priority. Each contact should be treated like gold.
In this episode, I share practical and very doable ways to grow your email list.
Discover ideas like:
* Downloadable
* Mini-course
* Exclusive Content
* Host a webinar
...And probably the easiest and most overlooked method, but by far effective method. (Listen and find out what it is!)
Collecting emails and growing your list isn't a one-and-done thing. It's a continual process. You'll get better at it over time. You'll develop many methods and opportunities for people to enter your online business ecosystem.
Additional Resources:
* Prospect Research Institute
* Seth Godin | Permission Marketing
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/…
playlist_add
Feb 24, 2021
#147 - How to be a Gutsy Leader Gracefully with Dr. Sheila Cornea
In this episode, I have a conversation with Dr. Sheila Cornea.
Sheila believes that everyone was created to make a unique contribution in this world. With a little bit of guts and a whole lot of tenacity, every dreamer can become a difference-maker. Her practical wisdom has made her a sought-after speaker, online educator, and leadership consultant. In addition to leading her own community, Gutsy Grace Leaders, Sheila has led in education, non-profit, and ministry organizations from start-ups to enterprises.
In our conversation, Sheila shares that there are four things that all leaders must have:
* Community
* Authenticity
* Strategic plan
* Tenacity plan
Listen as she discusses how ACT (Apply–Commitment–Today) should be incorporated into your daily routine.
Connect with Shelia Cornea:
* Website: https://www.drsheilacornea.com/
* Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/drsheilacornea
* Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drsheilacornea
* Twitter: http://www.twitter.…
playlist_add
Feb 17, 2021
#146 - How Using a Free Email Account Hurts Your Company's Branding
Company branded email is a detail that shouldn't be overlooked when you are starting your own small business. Yet, it often is!
No matter what stage you are in your business, if you are using a free email account (like gmail, yahoo, msn, etc.) it's time to STOP!
This detail matters.
In this episode, I share an experience I had that really left a negative impression on me from a business who should have known better. Their lack of using a company branded email placed a black mark on their professionalism and longevity.
Are you subconsciously leaving a bad impression on prospects because you aren't using a company branded email?
Listen and find out.
Additional Resources
* Bluehost
* Scrivener Solutions Content Management Services
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gscrivener/Con…
playlist_add
Feb 10, 2021
#145 - Position Your Pricing for Success with Paul Klein
Pricing expert, Paul Klein of the Pricing is Positioning Podcast joins me this week to discuss how knowledge-based businesses should be pricing their services.
If you struggle with being stuck in the antiquated hourly rate modeland feeling like you’re never getting ahead, then this is most definitely the episode for you.
Paul is a business consultant and entrepreneur. From his days as 1980s hair band guitarist, he has been a lifelong entrepreneur. He has experience starting and scaling a successful SAAS company as well as consulting some of the biggest brands including Target, Neiman Marcus, Starbucks, Holiday Inn, and other global brands,
Paul helps consultants, freelancers, and solopreneurs price their services and stop under charging so they can build their 7-plus figure businesses. Paul is the host of the Pricing Is Positioning Podcast and The Rock Your Pricing Online Course and Community.
Often, we take our expertise for granted and commoditize ourselves in the marketplace.…
playlist_add
Feb 3, 2021
#144 - Why Taking a Break From Content Creation May Be Necessary
Let's face it. Consistently creating content is not easy.
It takes commitment. It takes time. It takes work. And sometimes it can be an uncomfortable process. Uncomfortable because there seems to be that looming deadline over your head and you're busy and unsure what to write or record.
Listen as I share why sometimes it may be necessary to take a pause for the cause, so to speak. I gained a lot of insight from fellow podcaster, Paul Klein as I listened to his December 17, 2020 episode titled Why Pausing This Podcast Was Dumb...But Necessary and Paul was kind enough to allow me to verbalize my thoughts on this week’s episode.
Enjoy!
Additional Resources:
* Why Pausing This Podcast Was Dumb...But Necessary | Paul Klein | Pricing is Positioning Podcast
Connect with Gayla:
* Website: https://www.gaylascrivener.com/
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylascrivener/
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GaylaScrivenerWorkFromAnywhere/
* Instagram: https://www.instagr…
playlist_add
Jan 27, 2021
#143 - How to Live Life Rich with Marissa Nehlsen
Chances are, if you made any New Year’s resolutions at all, at least one of them has to do with improving your finances. Often, we resolve that we are going to make a change, only to find ourselves discouraged at our progress.
That’s why I invited Founder and CEO of Freedom Financial Group, Marissa Nehlsen to share ways to jumpstart our 2021 financial successes.
Marissa came from humble beginnings as a rural North Dakota farm girl and has built a multi-million-dollar financial services company. As an accomplished leader with proven results, her unique style and approach enables her clients to achieve extra ordinary and sustainable results.
With over 27 years of solid experience, she built a holistic planning firm based on the core principles to educate, empower, and equip individuals, organizations, and businesses to make wise choices. As a money & mindset coach, she is a thinking partner that provides simple, powerful strategies to take you and your business to the next level.…
playlist_add
Jan 20, 2021
#142 - The Secret Sauce of Content Posting Frequency
In my role as creative director, coach, and mentor in our content marketing agency, I know this to be true... no two clients are exactly the same. Their viewpoints, their goals, their perspectives, their missions are individual. All, however, see the benefit of making sure to use the opportunities of communication through online means to extend their reach and grow their businesses.
With that said, working behind the scenes for our clients, my team and I implement their strategies. And wouldn't you know it? Even though many of the tools and systems are similar, their strategies differ.
That gives me the opportunity to learn firsthand what frequency of posting content is ideal.
Should you be posting your core piece of content (blog, podcast, or video) once a month, twice a month, every week, daily?
In this episode I share the top three considerations you must explore and decide on to make the ideal content posting frequency work.
Additional Resources:
* Podcast Checklist: Scrive…
playlist_add
Jan 13, 2021
#141 - Healthy Living Made Simple with Dr. Lisa Olszewski
The new year has kicked off and one of the most popular resolutions revolves around living a healthier life. Whether it's starting a new diet, vowing to eat more leafy greens, or getting to the gym more often to get in shape, most of us have great intentions to make this year's health resolutions stick.
We start with enthusiasm, then after a few weeks, those old habits creep their way back into our routine.
Why would a show about creating a lifestyle business be talking about health?
Maintaining the best health we can is beneficial for anyone to live a full and vibrant life whether you’re growing a lifestyle business or not. I’m no health expert and I’m like most of the population. I struggle with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. All the healthy living information out there is so confusing and overwhelming.
That’s why I asked my friend, Dr. Lisa Olszewski, to this week’s show. She keeps it real and helps break down all the clutter when it comes to health so you can focus…
playlist_add
Jan 6, 2021
#140 - Kicking Off 2021 with a Bang!
What is your game-plan for 2021?
Most certainly 2020 was interesting. It was an exceedingly difficult time for many. For others, it was a time of growth and discovery. Undoubtedly, all the changes and health concerns had all of us pushed out of our comfort zones.
Although things don't magically change when the new year rings in. Of course, the effects of the pandemic didn't magically disappear when the ball dropped on 2020.
Like most, I spent a lot reflection time in December and made plans. Now, it's now time for action!
How are you taking action on your 2021 plans? Results won't come without action.
In this episode, I share how I’ve began implementing my top three goals that I mentioned in episode 132.
The biggest announcement is the launching of the Scrivener Solutions YouTube Channel. There, you'll find practical tips and how-to's that help make your content marketing more personal, meaningful, and productive in a manner where you can gear up and accomplish more!
Every oth…
playlist_add
Dec 30, 2020
#139 - Build Live Give with Paul Higgins
High-performance business mentor, podcaster, and author, Paul Higgins to joins me for today’s episode.
I met Paul through LinkedIn. You know how sometimes you’ll get these weird connection requests and then when you accept them, you seem to get spammed with hard core sales messaging? It makes you a little leery in accepting connections out of the blue.
Paul reached out to me through an email and also asked for a LinkedIn connection. I was intrigued because they were messages like none other. His message was personal and relevant. Not canned. Not salesy. His interest was to broaden his network in a genuine manner.
I soon started following Paul and getting to know him through his podcast. I feel like I’ve gotten to know him without even meeting him. I was super excited when he agreed to be a guest on my show.
Paul helps service-based business owners struggling to strike a balance between life and work adopt a hands-off management approach and improve profits to fund their lifes…
playlist_add
Dec 23, 2020
#138 - 5 Details to Check Before Ringing in the New Year
Before ringing in the new year, it’s a good idea to check a few systems that you already have in place in areas where we tend to "set it and forget it." Sometimes these little forgotten details either no longer work or need updated.
In this episode, I share 5 details you should quickly check:
1. Voice Message
2. Email Settings on All Devices
3. Social Profiles (Bios, Cover Images, Links, etc.)
4. Lead Magnet
5. Matrix Tracking Number/Process
This year had resulted with many pivots and changes for many of us. By checking these details, you’ll make sure that your current systems are still accurate with your overall goal and vision.
Enjoy! Additional Resources Mentioned:
* 137 – Know Your Numbers with Jim Adams
* Paul Higgins LinkedIn Profile
* Paul Higgins LinkedIn Resource: BLGClick.com
* Follow me on Instagram: @gscrivener
* Be on my list: ScrivenerSolutions.com/Addme
playlist_add
Dec 16, 2020
#137 - Know Your Numbers with Jim Adams
You may have heard the saying “Numbers don’t lie” but if that’s true, why do so many entrepreneurs avoid them?
Jim Adams believes that in order to effectively drive your business from stuck to really enjoying your business. He believes you must know your numbers to actually see what’s out in front of you.
He’s helped hundreds of small and family owned businesses around the U.S. and Canada understand their numbers to DRIVE their teams to the next level.
Don’t let numbers scare you, Jim makes things much less intimidating.
Enjoy! Additional Resources Mentioned:
* Jim Adams
* Website
* Facebook
* LinkedIn
* Business Model Template
* Running Lean: Iterate from Plan A to a Plan that Works | Ash Maury
playlist_add
Dec 9, 2020
#136 - Not All Who Wander are Lost
Life’s an Adventure Waiting to be Discovered
Nine years ago, when my husband, Robert, and I downsized by having a huge garage sale and moved into our 38-foot motor home, I think that's when we decided that life is an adventure, and we were ready to discover it.
We started our new identity by pursuing our work from anywhere lifestyle. We've made a lot of discoveries along the way. Discoveries about the practical side of working from anywhere and discoveries about ourselves in how to design the lifestyle we truly want.
Recently, Robert and I have made some big decisions and changes when it comes to our travel adventures. Those changes spill into making important business decisions.
Listen and learn what changes are percolating...both personally and professionally.
In your adventure...remember not all who wander are lost. You may feel a bit lost from time to time. Outsiders may think you have no direction. Every experience you have, every plan you try, every idea you explore is one…
playlist_add
Dec 2, 2020
#135 - Real Personal Branding Advice with Lauren V Davis
Many people are intimidated and frustrated by trying to bring their personal brand to life through social media, live events, and public relations. If that’s you, then you’re really going to love this episode.
I’ve asked Lauren V. Davisto the show as she shares her experience in growing not only her brick and mortar business but also her online marketing business, Lauren Davis Creative.
Lauren lives near Chicago and works with people over the world to overcome their personal branding discontent and grow their presence so that they can focus on sales, exposure, leadership and community impact through her marketing consultancy Lauren Davis Creative and her podcast, the Real Personal Branding Podcast.
Lauren has been named as one of the "20 People You Should Know," a "Person to Watch," and a "Face of Tourism," in the Midwest, as well as being recognized as an "Up-Next Future Leader" by Gatehouse Media (Rockford Register Star.)
Lauren has received US Senate recognition for her pa…
playlist_add
Nov 25, 2020
#134 - One Word: Gratitude
The season of Thanksgiving has us thinking about what we are grateful for.
Practicing gratitude is a good idea any time of the year. The more you practice it, the better you feel, and the likelihood of better things come your way.
I take it for granted that I'm naturally a person who appreciates many things and tries to find the good in any situation. Sometimes I forget that not everyone thinks like I do and struggle in seeing the positives even when things are rough or not turning out as planned.
This holiday season, even during the weirdness of 2020, I feel there's a lot to be grateful for.
In this episode, I share how appreciating big and small things even during the roller coaster year of 2020 allows us to come out on the other side better people and have grown from the experience.
Enjoy!
Additional Resources Mentioned:
* Follow me on Instagram: @gscrivener
* Be on my list: ScrivenerSolutions.com/Addme
playlist_add
Nov 18, 2020
#133 - Working from Anywhere is no Fantasy with Autumn Birt-Raven
Autumn is an award-winning and bestselling author in fantasy, epic fantasy, and war with twenty books and counting currently published. She loves helping fellow writers with coaching, onlinecourses, and the Am Writing Fantasy podcast and website at www.AmWritingFantasy.com while creating book covers and other author services at A Raven Design. She is currently settled in a tiny cabin in the Vermont woods after an epic four-year road trip with her husband and small cairn terrier. Discover the world of her books and follow her adventures at www.AutumnWriting.com.
Autumn and I crossed paths in our travels and became fast friends. I love her adventurous spirit and appreciate her dedication and work when it comes to creating her lifestyle business. Autumn is wildly creative and has a smart business sense about her. I asked her to be on the show this week to share her journey in leaving her corporate job and living her travel adventurous life. Additional Resources Mentioned:
* Follow Aut…
playlist_add
Nov 12, 2020
#132 - Setting Plans During Uncertain Times
Has the year we call “2020” turned your world upside-down? All the big plans you set for yourself at the end of 2019 were thrown out the window!
As the end of the year draws near, it’s time to make plans for next year. But next year is uncertain.
With all the weirdness of 2020, many have told me that they are quite unsure as to how to plan for the future when this year has thrown them for such a loop. Some are delaying planning and almost seem paralyzed in deciding what to do next.
I hope that's not you. If it is... or if you’re a little less motivated in planning for next year because you're a little gun shy in doing so... remember this...
Every year is uncertain. The future is uncertain. That's what's exciting!
We have the opportunity to create how our future is shaped, despite what happens. We're able to navigate through life's challenges and find opportunities in every experience.
Granted this year may have kicked all of us in the pants more than other years. Please d…
playlist_add
Nov 4, 2020
#131 - TAPP into the Power of Your Team with Linda Guild
Teamwork is essential to any business. Whether you have a small or large team, how your team works together as well as how you lead your team has a lot to do with the success of your business.
As a coach, consultant, or small service-based business owner, when it’s time to scale your business, it can be a daunting thought to hire full-time employees. Big questions pop in your mind like:
Can I afford to hire anyone?
Can I fill their workday?
Many of us who choose to work from anywhere and want to scale our businesses will choose to get started with our team-building with a part-time employment relationship, a freelancer, or an independent contractor (or a combination).
When it comes to resources available to help make the part-time employment relationship better and stronger... they are few and far between.
In this week’s podcast, I have a conversation with Linda Guild from Talented Alliance of Part-time Professionals.
Linda is an association executive with over 20 years of e…
playlist_add
Oct 28, 2020
#130 - Don't Underestimate the Importance of One
In a time where, as online solopreneurs, we pressure ourselves to have the highest number of followers, a huge email list, tons of subscribers, there's little emphasis on the importance of ONE.
There’s a tendency to compare ourselves with our online mentors. We see their lists of thousands and hundreds of thousands of followers. The problem with the comparison game is we begin to feel terrible where we’re at in our journey. We overlook the fact that our online mentor has been working at it longer than we have.
The comparison game has us looking at what we don’t have instead of celebrating what we do have.
Listen as I share examples of how focusing on “one” leads to significant growth toward reaching your goals.
Embrace one...
Celebrate one...
Learn from one...
Grow from one...
Don't underestimate the importance of one. And certainly, don't underestimate the importance of each relationship you form. Appreciate and reflect on your collection of “one moments” that cr…
playlist_add
Oct 21, 2020
#129 - Marketing Your Movement with Duane Zingale
Duane Zingale joins me in today’s show. I met Duane several months ago through some mutual colleagues. We immediately connected as we both do similar things for our client. Similar, yet a little different.
We both very much believe in relationship-based marketing and we both tend to get distracted by the cool tech stuff out there to improve processes in our businesses.
I’m a regular listener to his podcast, The Marketing your Movement Show.
Duane’s specialty is funnels and getting the conversation right through automation by still being genuine and intentional. He believes it’s not just about building a funnel for the sake of it. Duane is a digital ad specialist and founder of the digital marketing group Legacy Catalyst.
His Mission with Legacy Catalyst is to get behind more than just a business… but to champion movements that will change the world one life at a time leaving a lasting Legacy. He likes to say when you leave your digital footprint today you start leaving yo…
playlist_add
Oct 14, 2020
#128 - Bike Fun Not Fast
If you listened to episode 126, you would have heard that Robert and I were going to check off our bucket lists bicycling across the state of Missouri on the Katy Trail. The Katy is the longest of all the rails to trails paths in the U.S. with approximately 237 miles of continuous trail.
We made it! The adventure was truly a test of our endurance. Our adventure had its fair share of obstacles, but we didn’t let that dampen our spirits.
Now that we’ve finished our journey, other life obstacles don’t seem so bad.
Listen as I share three lessons I learned from cycling 308 miles on Missouri trails.
* You must unplug in order to recharge.
* You don’t need fancy, expensive equipment to do BIG things.
* Bike fun not fast.
What has been on your bucket list that you finally took the plunge to accomplish? Big or small...I’d love to hear from you. Hop over to Instagram and leave a private message. Or, if you’d rather, drop me an email at podcast@gaylascrivener.com
Addition…
playlist_add
Oct 7, 2020
#127 - Branding from the Inside Out with Skot Waldron
When you think of branding your company, the first things we think of are logos, colors, basically how customers identify us in the marketplace.
As today’s guest Skot Waldron explains, branding goes much deeper than logos and colors. Skot believes that your brand starts within your organization. He shares that you must a healthy inside culture in order to truly be effective and grow your client base.
For the past 18 years, Skot’s work for clients such as J.P. Morgan Chase, CDC, Georgia Tech, Royal Caribbean, Sesame Workshop, The Home Depot, and The Coca-Cola Company has included national and international employer brand development as well as company culture programs. His focus is on helping people and businesses learn how to communicate more effectively.
In addition to running his own agency, Skot has been teaching brand development at the Miami Ad School in Atlanta. He has also traveled to different cities in the U.S. to conduct communication training and speaks about how the…
playlist_add
Sep 30, 2020
#126 - Embarking on a Challenging Adventure
Today is a quick show. It doesn't have anything to do with business building. Instead, I'm sharing a little adventure my husband, Robert, and I are about to have.
It's a trip that has been on my bucket list for many, many years. Although I'm nervous and am tempted to cancel, we're going to do it!
It's the unknowns and the uncertainty that makes life adventurous.
I figure there's always doubts and unknowns in anything we do. We need to push through our fears. Every time we do, we'll experience a wonderful adventure.
Listen to find out what challenging adventure we're about to tackle.
playlist_add
Sep 23, 2020
#125: Because Leadership is a Journey and Not a Destination with Genesis Eakes
Genesis Eakes joins me on today’s show. As the Founder and President of Genesis Eakes International, she believes that businesses exist to solve the world’s greatest problems. The most audacious goals can be accomplished when each member of an organization is passionate, productive, creative, cooperative when the wide diversity of gifts,talents, and dreams of the team are being expressed and realized.
A highly sought-after executive mentor, consultant, and speaker worldwide, Genesis is well versed in the importance of asking key questions most business leaders won’t ask themselves. She brings deep experience in leadership development, strategy, high-performance team building, and training to her work.
Trained and mentored by Dr. John C. Maxwell, the number one leadership expert in the world, she is equipped with the tools, resources, and experience to help business leaders and their teams improve productivity, performance, and profitability.
We learn from Genesis that leadersh…
playlist_add
Sep 17, 2020
#124 - Question Everything to Stimulate Growth
Making a plan for your business on an annual basis is absolutely a good idea. In this episode, learn how being a participant in a business planning session has me questioning everything I do in my business.
Maybe what I learned in this planning retreat could help you question everything to stimulate growth.
This episode was dedicated to Jen. Thanks to you...I continue to be inspired, motivated, and stretched to grow.
playlist_add
Aug 26, 2020
#123 - How Implementing Systems Creates Freedom to Enjoy Special Life Moments
For most entrepreneurs, when asked why they want to be in business for themselves, the word freedom usually is at the top of the list. Although the definition of freedom means different things to different people, it's that strong desire to achieve freedom that seems to drive most entrepreneurs.
But being an entrepreneur is hard work and, at times, it doesn't feel like you have much freedom. There are many occasions where you may feel drained of time, energy, and money. Even overwhelmed with the whole process.
Then, something significant happens.
Something happens that jerks you out of the day-to-day grind of your business. An event that will reveal that all the hard work you're doing is worth it.
That's what happened to me just a few short days ago. Listen to this episode as I share what made me drop everything in an instant and drive a 12-hour overnight car ride.
When something like this happens, I realize that it's times like these that I really appreciate the hard work in star…
playlist_add
Aug 12, 2020
#122 – Homeless to Millionaire, The Mindset Switch | Interview with Sean Osborn
In today’s episode, I interview Thinking Big Coaching’s Sean Osborn.
Sean Osborn is a coach and mindset strategist who specializes in getting people to their next level. He has spent more than 30 years developing his philosophy of Thinking Big.
You’ll learn what defining moment in his life changed him from being homeless and stuck to starting a multimillion-dollar tech company and managing high-level teams for some of the largest companies in the county.
Two of my biggest takeaways from our conversation were:
“If you’re not happy, it’s because you’re not making a decision you need to make.”
“People overestimate what they can do in a year and they completely underestimate what they can do in a decade.”
Learn when Imposter Syndrome rears its ugly head and what you can do about it.
Enjoy! Resources Mentioned:
* FREE 7-Day Think and Grow Rich Challenge! | August 17th – 24th 2020
* Sean Osborn
* Website
* Instagram
* Facebook
* Podcast
playlist_add
Aug 5, 2020
#121 - From Reluctant Marketer to Content Marketing Agency Owner
If you were to tell me ten years ago that I'd have a career in marketing, I would have thought you were crazy!
In this episode, I share a little story about this reluctant and apprehensive marketer who had transitioned into becoming an owner of a content marketing agency.
The very word “marketing” conjured up negative feelings in the pit of my stomach. But when I made the decision to leave corporate life forever and start my own business, I knew that marketing was a necessary evil.
My perception of what marketing is was so closed-minded back then. Fast forward to today, a little over 8 years after I opened my business, and marketing has turned into a career.
Listen and you’ll learn what triggered my mindset shift and transition into loving the art and community of marketing.
Once I realized that you could set up systems to allow people to get to know you and your expertise, grow an audience, and build relationships...selling wasn’t “sleazy” at all! It's a natural trans…
playlist_add
Jul 22, 2020
#120 – How to Tap into the Magic of Repurposing Content
This episode focuses on how to tap into the magic of repurposing your content.
Not everyone digests content in the same way. Much of the time, one piece of content will lead to another, then another. When you tap into the magic of repurposing, you’re able to add value to your followers and make new connections.
Everyone’s specific strategy would be a bit different, but perhaps these examples I go over in this podcast episode will spark some ideas that you’ll want to try and implement.
A brief overview of the ideas:
* Creative Social Media Posts
* Add Your Video or Podcast as a Blog Post
* Email Your List
* Add Backlinks to Past Content
* Add Zoom Recordings to YouTube Resources Mentioned:
* Canva
* Headliner App
* Buffer
* Hootsuite
* AirTable
* #116 – Super Simple Strategy to Start a Solid Foundation of Consistent Content
* Super Simple Strategy to Jumpstart Consistent Content Creation Checklist
playlist_add
Jul 15, 2020
#119 – How To Make the Most of Attending Online Events
Many live events have been or are going to be moved online because of the challenges sparked by the coronavirus pandemic. The event coordinators of these events are working hard to make your online experience one that is valuable and worthy of your time and money, just as they would if they were holding a live event.
The biggest challenge in hosting an online event is gaining the participants' attention.
If you aren't able to meet face-to-face for your favorite events, does that mean they are less valuable? Absolutely not.
Why do you go to an event in the first place?
* Education
* Inspiration
* Community
You will grow both personally or professionally. It's up to you on how you make the most of the event whether it is a live or an online event.
Online events do pose a particular challenge.
To help with your online experience, this episode outlines five ways you can make the most of attending online events.
Here’s an overview:
* Block the time on your calendar
* Tu…
playlist_add
Jul 8, 2020
#118 – More Revenue and Bigger Reach with Missy Martin
In today’s episode, I interview Success Coach, Mastermind Leader, and the creator of the Business Success Academy, Missy Martin.
Missy helps business owners create a personal and profitable business by tapping into their strengths and personality. Missy believes that the more YOU that you can put in your business, the better the service and connection you can create.
Missy is a mother, wife, and a 19-year military veteran. She loves reading, watching movies (popcorn is a must), and has figured out how to be an introvert and nerd while still being comfortable speaking to groups and networking with other business owners.
Her superpower is motivating and coaching business owners to take action to achieve the success they dream about.
I can't wait for you to meet Missy...let's dive right into the interview.
Resources Mentioned:
* More Revenue Bigger Reach Online Summit (affiliate link)
* Missy Martin
* Website
* Facebook
* Twitter
* Instagram
* Canva
* Evernote
*…
playlist_add
Jul 1, 2020
#117 - How to Delegate Your Social Media Management and Still Be Genuine
Social media is an important piece of your overall marketing strategy because it's a means of communicating with individuals.
Since social media is personal and a way to build connections, are you cheating if you have others write and publish our social posts on your behalf?
Absolutely not!
Creating your personal brand and offering services through a brand that is unmistakably you...unmistakably personal...doesn't mean you do it alone.
Sure, at first, you may be doing all things yourself, but when you make the transition of treating your personal brand as a business and not a job, you will begin building your team.
You build your team so that you can scale and get help in areas where you fall short. Whether it's falling short on time or skill set, your team helps fill in the gaps and makes your personal brand stronger.
In this episode, I share five solutions that I found that works when it comes to delegating social media management and remain genuine.
My hope is that you can ta…
playlist_add
Jun 24, 2020
116 - Super Simple Strategy to Start a Solid Foundation of Consistent Content
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the pressure of creating consistent content and struggle to get it all done?
All the online influencers are content producing machines! They are everywhere and doing everything! Video, podcasting, blogs, and on every social platform imaginable.
First of all, stop comparing yourself to those big online influencers. They've worked up to where they are today and have teams of people.
Stop comparing yourself to them and feeling like your efforts are falling short.
Where are you at right now in your business? Is it just you? Are you doing everything and haven't built your team yet?
Well...give yourself some grace. You don't have to be in all places and do all things.
Let go a bit and commit to doing one thing, one strategy to lay the groundwork and gain confidence in your content creation quest.
You do need to be consistent, but you don't have to do all and be everywhere. If you aren't consistent with one content publishing strategy first and get into…
playlist_add
Jun 17, 2020
#115 – Putting Both Feet 100% In with Merrill Stewart
Merrill Stewart is the CEO of Marketing & Business Solutions and brings her experience in marketing and communications for both the for-profit and non-profit sectors.
Merrill’s experience includes over 10 years in non-profit fundraising and support including roles as Director of Development for a 120-year-old child-and family-centered non-profit in Tampa, raising $2 million in support each year in addition to the implementation of annual fundraising initiatives, social media strategy, fundraising strategy planning, marketing, communications, grant writing, major gift solicitation, community and volunteer support.
In today’s episode we discuss Merrill’s journey as she discovered that a physical therapy career wasn’t for her and how she made a bold move in landing her first intern job that set in motion her marketing and consulting career. Learn how she was told that she chose the wrong double major, and how that made her even more determined to achieve her goals.
See why Merr…
playlist_add
Jun 14, 2020
#114 - Big Changes Revealed
Last week, I promised a BIG announcement. I was brimming with excitement as I wanted to unveil this news at the same time our new website was published.
But alas, a technical snafu happened to the website, delaying the upgrade.
That's OK! I didn't want a little snag with tech stop me from telling you this big news!
You know me and my Scrivener Solutions team as virtual assistants. No more. As of today, we are no longer virtual assistants.
Scrivener Solutions is a Content Marketing Agency. We serve coaches, consultants, and solopreneurs implementing their content marketing plan.
Why the change?
Sure, we still work virtually. But our company has evolved over the last eight years. We went from doing general administrative duties to focusing exclusively on content marketing.
Keeping the term "virtual assistant" caused confusion.
Scrivener Solutions has never been a staffing agency, however, many thought we were. The company isn't a VA matchmaking service. Instead, Scrivener…
playlist_add
Jun 3, 2020
113 - Planning, Scheduling, and Adapting to Change
To really accomplish more, it's important to plan ahead and then implement your plan to create a routine.
When it comes to content marketing, planning your messages and then scheduling them into the future certainly leverages your time. When you batch common tasks, for example, devote the planning and scheduling of your social media posts to a short block of time, once a week, you're free to do your many other tasks during the rest of the week.
Planning and scheduling are good, however, you always need to be aware and alert to current events and be nimble in adapting your messages should you need to. In recent months and weeks, some major events have happened in our country and our communities.
To go forward with your scheduled messages, whether it be on social, in emails, landing pages, sales copy...and not be sensitive to what's going on with major events, may not be the right thing for you or your brand.
playlist_add
May 27, 2020
#112 – When is the Best Time to Create My Team?
“Begin with the end in mind.”
-Habit 2 | Stephen Covey’s The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
I’m often asked when a good time is to start creating a team. My initial response is to always be thinking ahead. Envision how you want your business to operate.
This week’s podcast episode goes over three methods of getting everything done.
* Do literally everything yourself
* Create your own systems and start hiring individuals
* Tap into other’s created systems and hire an agency
Most likely, in creating your dream team to grow and scale your business, you’ll incorporate two or all of the above choices.
It’s a balancing act of investment of time and resources.
What is your takeaway from the episode? Drop me a note at podcast@gaylascrivener.com.
playlist_add
May 20, 2020
#111 – Why Your Message Must Have a Platform to Be Heard
Now, more than ever, you need to grow your personal brand. If you want to stand out from your competition in your niche, attract new clients, and build a thriving business, it’s important to create a powerful, thriving personal brand.
Your personal brand is one of your biggest assets when it comes to building your business online. Your personal brand can take your business to places you never thought possible.
Unfortunately, most business owners don’t know how to build a personal brand. They feel fuzzy on exactly what steps to take and what’s involved in creating a brand around themselves.
First things first. Let me be clear here…
A personal brand is much more than a flashy logo or a color palette. A personal brand goes far beyond having a nice-looking business card. A personal brand is not just about having a website with your name on it, although that’s certainly part of it.
A personal brand is much bigger and all-encompassing. It’s about who you are and what you do.…
playlist_add
May 13, 2020
#110 – Formula for Freedom
We all want more freedom, right?
Have financial freedom. Have more time to be free to do whatever you want, whenever you want.
Freedom is a beautiful thing.
I used to sit in my corporate job wishing for more freedom. Then one day, I made the decision that completely changed my lifestyle and my outlook on life. I wanted to experience nomadic travel and earn the freedom that a work from anywhere philosophy could achieve.
I figured out that there’s a simple formula to earning freedom.
Planning + Implementation = Freedom
This episode goes over this simple formula and how implementing your plans systematically will result in the freedom you seek. But beware. If you think you can do everything yourself and don’t create a team to lighten the load of the work involved in growing your business, you’ll remain shackled to your business. Freedom will always feel out of reach.
Of course, there’s hard work, risk, and some sacrifice when it comes to earning freedom.
For me, what freed…
playlist_add
May 6, 2020
#109 - How the Right Personal Trainer Will Make Your Relationships Stronger with Dr. Michelle Deering
What does it mean to have a relationship personal trainer? This week’s show will explain it all!
In this episode, Dr. Michelle Deering joins me as we not only discuss the relationship between mothers and daughters but also how she transitioned from employee to entrepreneur.
Dr. Deering is a North Carolina & New Jersey state-licensed clinical psychologist and board-certified sport psychologist. She has guest blogged for Parent Magazine, is a contributing writer for Therapy Brands, & has been a featured guest on numerous podcasts, radio shows, and online magazines.
A graduate of Brown University, Dr. Deering is the founder and CEO of Curative Connections, a consulting company offering mother-daughter relationship consultation and motivational/keynote speaking services.
Michelle and her husband, Scott, compete in Reebok Spartan obstacle course races. She is also a drummer and curler. Married 27 years, Michelle and Scott are the parents of young adult twin daughters.
Even if you’r…
playlist_add
Apr 29, 2020
#108 – How to Make Your Course Investment Even More Valuable
Have you ever taken a course and didn’t complete it? It’s nothing to feel bad or ashamed about. It’s happened to many of us.
The element that’s missing when you purchase a course is also making the investment in implementation. It’s not enough to watch the videos and show up for the live coaching. You must make the investment to implement what you’ve learned.
Why do most people fail to complete the course they’ve purchased?
Overwhelm sets in. Their mindset is wrapped around how they can get everything done that they are learning in the modules.
Here’s the secret…
You don’t have to be the one to do all the steps. You’ve already made the investment in the knowledge, make the investment to get the help you need to follow-through on the implementation.
Join me every Wednesday at 4pm Central for Weekly Wednesday “We-Treat”
Grab your favorite treat or beverage (or both!), get your computer, tablet or phone, park it in a comfy chair and log into the Zoom round…
playlist_add
Apr 15, 2020
#107 - How Taking Imperfect Action Today Is More Important Than Ever
"Imperfect action is better than perfect inaction.”
– Harry S Truman
Your life may be turned upside-down and inside-out with current events. You may be moving into uncharted territory. Don’t let that deter you in creating a bright future for yourself.
Things are just different now. How are you using your time? Are you waiting for things to go back exactly how they were?
Maybe you don’t want things to go back exactly like they were. I don’t. Hopefully, we all will have learned and grown from the experience.
Just because you may be unsure of yourself, or don’t know exactly where to start, taking imperfect action now is more important than ever.
Do these three things to jumpstart your action:
1) If you've purchased a course in the past and haven't finished, check to see if you have lifetime access. If so, go through the course now. You've already paid for the course(s), why not get more out of your investment and implement what you’ll learn?
2) Sign up for Mike Kim's…
playlist_add
Apr 8, 2020
#106 – How a Technophobe Is Rockin’ the Virtual World
Even though there’s a lot of worry and uncertainty in current events and each one of us is affected, I'm seeing so much good and positive growth from many.
Even though we’re supposed to remain distant, communities are coming together and becoming closer, through virtual means. I'm inspired by the innovativeness, the bravery, and lighthearted ways to get through such a tough time.
Maybe more people are thinking outside of the constraints of the box they’ve set for themselves because they’ve been pushed into a corner to act. Maybe it's because now, there’s the feeling that there’s nothing to lose.
Whatever the reason, I’m witnessing more and more people blazing into new territory and growing their businesses.
And Personal Organizer, Theresa Volesky, isn't any different. She has totally impressed me on how she's making a path for herself.
Theresa has technophobia. The definition of a technophobe is a person who fears, dislikes, or avoids new technology.
She doesn’t l…
playlist_add
Apr 1, 2020
#105 - Finding Direction During Uncertain Times
What's on your mind at this very moment with all this stuff going on right now?
There’s no doubt about it, we are collectively going through something that none of us has ever experienced. There's a lot of uncertainty...and it’s scary for many.
I'm sad about seeing businesses close. I'm sad to see people losing their jobs.
It's hard to find direction in a time of uncertainty.
In this week’s podcast, I share my experience of the major uncertainty of my life when I left the corporate world into creating my own online business. At the time, I thought I was all alone.
Life is full of uncertainty. The difference now as opposed to what I experienced in the past, is that everyone all at once is experiencing uncertainty all at once. ALL of us are affected. Life’s uncertainty is amplified.
I believe that we are given the gift to take time to pause and figure out what's really important in our life. I've always believed that we can create a lifestyle that we want. We will get throu…
playlist_add
Mar 25, 2020
#104 – Mark Your Ball: How to Navigate the Course Outside Your Comfort Zone with Marshall Townsend
Several weeks ago, before the news broke in the spread of the Coronavirus, I had a wonderful conversation with Marshall Townsend. Marshall is a leadership coach, speaker, and consultant from Boise, Idaho. He's been coaching leaders for over 20 years in a variety of capacities.
I met Marshall through participating in programs facilitated by our mutual mentor, Mike Kim.
I contemplated whether I would share the interview this week or not because of all the stuff going on in the news. After listening to the recording again, I knew this was the perfect time to share and introduce you to Marshall.
In the interview, Marshall shares what it means to Mark Your Ball. He illustrates the analogy between living life on the driving range vs. out on the course.
When I listened to my and Marshall's conversation again, I realized that his message is more relevant than ever!
You see, many of us play it safe and stay on the driving range, not taking the risks of what's out there on the course. Today…
playlist_add
Mar 18, 2020
#103 - Hints for a Successful Remote Work Transition
With what’s going on in the world right now, many challenged with workplace disruptions.
Employers who had never considered a remote work situation for their employees are now giving it a second thought. Employees, who once thought to work from home would be a dream come true are facing their own challenges.
Uncertainty generates anxiety and tension. Transitioning to a remote work model takes a bit of time and patience to get the bugs worked out.
The Scrivener Solutions team had a roundtable discussion at our last team meeting. In this week’s podcast, I share our conversation.
Our discussion included the challenges and advantages involved with remote work, both from the perspective of the employee and the employer. Each angle has very real concerns and responsibilities.
We share many of our experiences, like setting boundaries, alleviating distractions, technology issues, communication challenges, and family-time juggling.
We hope you find the episode helpful as you listen in…
playlist_add
Mar 12, 2020
#102 – Finding the Right Virtual Assistant for Your Team
When most people first start looking to outsource and begin their search for hiring a virtual assistant, they usually seek someone who can do absolutely everything.
Any task you throw their way, they’re able to perform with ease and efficiency. From managing your calendar, fielding support calls, writing your blog posts, to doing a complete redesign of your website. Everything with ease and efficiency. One person who seems to have superpowers and can even read your mind.
I can appreciate that dream. After all, it’s much easier to manage one person versus several people. You only have one point of contact, one personality to get used to, one person to train. I, too, have wished for such a super VA.
However, that type of utopia doesn’t exist.
In this episode, I cover different types of VAs and how you should hire to fill roles in your business.
Here’s an example list of job titles of roles you may need to fill. These are the folks who work virtually but don’t necessarily o…
playlist_add
Mar 4, 2020
#101 – The Best Time to Look for Your First Virtual Assistant
The very moment you decide to be your own boss and create your own business, you become a leader. You’re a leader before you even begin hiring anyone to help you with your business operations.
Like most coaches, consultants, or speaker you, more than likely, start doing everything yourself. Literally EVERYTHING.
You’ll roll up your sleeves and either learn the most important tasks or learn enough to make do until the time comes you can hire someone to help.
But soon you’ll find yourself overwhelmed with not having enough time in the day to do everything and desperate to find relief and FAST!
When your overwhelmed and desperate is not the best time to begin your search for the ideal virtual assistant to start your dream team.
* Listen to this week’s episode as I share when to begin your virtual assistant search. Here’s the secret: Start your search BEFORE you need a virtual assistant.
A quick breakdown as to how:
* Networking face-to-face
* Networking online
* O…
playlist_add
Feb 26, 2020
#100 – Myth: Do What You Love & Delegate the Rest
You’ve most certainly have heard the saying, “Only do what you love and delegate the rest.” It’s supposed to be a saying to inspire you to be successful in your business.
You would think that me, being an owner of a virtual assistant company, would be wholeheartedly supportive of that statement. After all, I’m a proponent of delegating and in order for you to be successful, you should delegate the stuff you don’t like, right?
Wrong!
I believe that doing what you love and delegating the rest will lead you to success is a myth.
In order to grow as a person and as an entrepreneur, there will be times you’ll have to do things you don’t necessarily love. It’s a part of being responsible for your business.
There will also be times when it’s in your best interest to delegate tasks that you do love, and you find joy in. This will allow you to find time in your schedule to do other tasks that no one else can do.
“Do what you love and delegate the rest.” Myth.
What…
playlist_add
Feb 17, 2020
#099 - Launching a Personal Brand with Brandy Van Riessen
In this week’s show, I'm pleased to bring back Brandy Van Riessen. Brandy is the mother of three wonderful children, the wife of a college basketball coach, works as a virtual assistant for Scrivener Solutions, and is growing her own online business.
In episode #78, Brandy shared how she was able to create her dream job. This time she shares how her dream job is evolving into her very own dream business.
Brandy recently launched her personal brand. She had already started growing OliviaMaeFurnishings.com for future passive income selling printables and apparel and now she’s launched BrandyVanRiessen.com.
Brandy had already transitioned from working a traditional day job into working remotely for Scrivener Solutions. With her schedule jammed packed full of raising her kids, managing her household, and working her remote job, she still finds the time lay the foundation of her own personal brand.
Brandy isn’t waiting until a magical "someday when I have time" stage of her life t…
playlist_add
Feb 10, 2020
#098 – 48 Social Post Ideas to Fill Your Content Calendar
You’re not alone if filling your content calendar with social media posts is a daunting task.
When it comes to thinking about what to post, it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed by the whole process. Sometimes it may feel like you have writer's block.
In today's show, I'm going to go over a few social media post ideas to spark your creativity and inspiration for your posts.
The main thing to remember is to keep it simple and don't complicate things.
If you’re unclear as to what to say, just becoming consistent and making it a habit of posting helps you achieve clarity. Download 48 Social Media Post Ideas, and over time, just by the act of getting used to posting and communicating on social media, you'll be able to understand and better know how you can effectively help your current customers and how you’ll attract new ones.
In this episode, I highlight twelve of the 48 post ideas.
* A link to your newest blog post
* Company accomplishments and milestones
* Valua…
playlist_add
Feb 3, 2020
#097 – Is Your Social Media Mindset Realistic?
We all have a mindset, or an established set of attitudes, about practically everything. Big or small.
Today’s show revolves around forming the right mindset when it comes to social media marketing and using it as a tool in growing your business.
It’s been my experience, through conversations with many individuals, that most fall within these three simple categories:
1) HATE it!
They don't want to be on any social platform. They feel it's a time sucker. They don't even want to have a social account but feel like they must have an account for their business, yet don’t know how to wrap their head around using it in their marketing plan.
2) LOVE it!
Social media is one of the core sources to stay in contact with friends and family. They use their favorite social platforms as a primary source of entertainment and news. Their phone is almost an extension of them as they’re continually checking their social accounts, numerous times a day.
3) OVERWHELMED!
Their opinion of whet…
playlist_add
Jan 29, 2020
#096 – Taking the Plunge into Solopreneurship | Interview with Jennifer Filla
Jennifer Filla, founder of Aspire Research Group and Prospect Research Institute joins me in this episode as she shares how she made her transition from her corporate job to becoming a solopreneur.
Jen felt stifled by her corporate job and knew she wanted to create a career and business for herself to fit a lifestyle she where she could travel, work remotely, and have the freedom of being more in control of her time.
In 2007, Jen took the leap right in the middle of the pool, as she puts it. Although she doesn’t necessarily recommend such an abrupt change, she felt she was at a point in her life where she could take a few more risks.
Jen was one of my first virtual assistant clients. Over the years, I’ve learned so much from her. With every conversation, I learn. I receive better insight, perspective, and clarity for my business…and today’s interview is without exception.
I know you’ll enjoy the conversation just as much as I did as Jen shares her experience and journey i…
playlist_add
Jan 22, 2020
#095 - Personal Brand Means You Do Everything, Right?
When you start and grow your personal brand...doesn't that mean you do everything?
After all, it's personal, you need to have your hands in everything and know how to do everything, right?
Intuitively...you may think so. But growing your personal brand isn't any different when it comes to recognizing the importance of seeing your brand as a business. Like any small business, you need to create systems and processes in order to incorporate efficiencies and set you up to scale.
When you listen to this week’s episode, you’ll see how I fell into the “it’s my personal brand, I better do everything” trap. Hear how I was shaken out of this mindset after a conversation with Brandy from my team.
For all practical purposes, when you first begin your personal brand or even any small service-based business, you aren't in the position of hiring anyone. You turn to Google to search what you need to do. There's nothing wrong with that. Everything you need to know to start and grow your…
playlist_add
Jan 15, 2020
#094 – Ideas for Your Core Piece of Content
When building your personal brand, my recommendation for your core piece of content where all other content draws from is either podcast or video production.
However, if you’re just getting started producing a podcast or publishing consistent videos may seem like too big of a mountain to conquer.
In this podcast episode, I share other ideas for you to consider for our core piece of content even if you don't have a website yet.
Listen as I give examples about:
* Social Posts
* Facebook or Instagram Live Videos
* eNewsletters
* Direct Mail Newsletters
I'm not suggesting that you do ALL the things I've listed...pick one.
Whatever you pick to be your core piece of consistent content will not be the wrong answer. The important thing is that you’re creating the habit of publishing the content. You’ll get into the mindset of the importance of consistency.
Although you won’t see an immediate return, you will begin connecting with your followers and gain more followers. Y…
playlist_add
Jan 8, 2020
#093 – How One Tiny Habit Turns a Dream into Reality
Today's show is about tiny habits that end up making a big impact on our life.
You've set your goals for this year. The year is still fresh, and you have the enthusiasm and drive to achieve all your goals.
Then again, we're a week into the new year and maybe you haven't started yet.
Creating a strategy for the coming year goes hand in hand with setting your goals. The little details, the new habits you form will lead you forward in achieving your goals.
You set goals because you want to get to a different place in your life or get something that you don't currently have.
Whether it's a tangible thing...like buying a new car, or a new home, or earning a certain dollar amount. Or something not so tangible like more energy, better and more meaningful relationships with family and friends.
You can't reach any of those goals without making a change in your current situation. And it doesn't have to be big drastic changes either.
Read this book: Atomic Habits by James Clear.
He explai…
playlist_add
Jan 2, 2020
#092 – Looking Ahead and Personal Goals for 2020
If you’re anything like me, goal setting brings mixed feelings. There are a lot of good goal-setting frameworks out there, but they’re also easy to get tired of.
One of the things I’ve done in recent years to set better goals is to write down my one-year goals and then rank them and concentrate on the top big three. I've made the mistake in the past trying to set too many goals and to be completed in unreasonable timeframes.
I believe we should have time parameters to help us move toward our target. However, we shouldn't beat ourselves up if the goal isn't achieved on our exact timeline.
Goals without a timeline are simply dreams.
Deadlines put fuel in the fire. When you work toward your dream by placing a bit of fuel to the flame with a deadline, then even if you miss the timeframe, you've grown and achieved more than what you would have without any fuel at all.
A missed timeline doesn’t always mean (and I’d have to say, it shouldn’t mean) to give up. It’s a time of…
playlist_add
Dec 25, 2019
#091 - Reflecting on a Decade to Leap Forward into a New Year
This is not only a year-end, but it's the end of a decade.
Sometimes we’re frustrated because we haven't progressed as quickly as we think we should. We seem always to be looking forward and trying to accomplish more. Then we beat ourselves up of all the things we haven't accomplished.
I believe that if we pause and reflect on past events and accomplishments, it gives us the momentum to leap ahead into the future. I don't believe in dwelling on the past, but the past shaped our present and we have a blank canvas for our future.
Here's my challenge to you. In the last days of this year...this decade, write down your 10 things in 10 years.
What are 10 accomplishments or events you've had in the last ten years that has shaped your present?
To get us kicked off, listen to today’s episode as I share mine. My 10 Things in 10 Years
1) Married Robert
2) Living in an RV full-time
3) Left the only career I knew
4) Became an entrepreneur
5) Traveling to amazing places
6) My brother…
playlist_add
Dec 18, 2019
#090 – Customer Relationships Simplified and Less Annoying
Interview with Alex Haimann, Business Development | Less Annoying CRM
When I first started my virtual assistant business, Scrivener Solutions, about seven years ago, I knew right out of the gate that I needed a good customer database.
I delayed in selecting a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system for two reasons.
First, when I started out, I didn’t have very many contacts or customers to keep track of, so I used manual systems. During this time, I searched and tried out different systems.
Second, to be completely transparent, as a small business owner and, at the time a solopreneur, most decent systems were way out of my non-existent budget. The CRMs that I could afford were so clunky and poorly designed that I hated using them.
Then one day, while consulting with a client, I was introduced to Less Annoying CRM. As I looked around at his account to help him with a project, I immediately knew that I needed to create my own Less Annoying CRM account. I signed up for the fr…
playlist_add
Dec 11, 2019
#089 - How to Organize Your Digital Files
Nowadays, it's inevitable that you'll be working with digital files. If you want to be able to work from anywhere, picking up your huge filing cabinets and hauling them everywhere you go is simply not feasible. Or, you may not have room in your house for all the files and cabinets you should keep for your business.
It's easy for you to feel scattered and out of control when it comes to digital files. After all, you’re working with many devices (phone, laptop, tablet) and have a lot of pieces of data (documents, spreadsheets, images) that you must keep track of.
I find it extremely interesting to know how someone else organizes their files and how they use certain tools. Just hearing how others organize sparks ideas for me to improve my processes.
In today’s podcast, I share my method of filing my digital files. By me sharing how my mind works in organizing and backing up my files, my hope is you get ideas to help in your digital file organization.
You most likely aren't working…
playlist_add
Dec 4, 2019
#088 - How to One Post Becomes Multiple Pieces of Content
Many of my clients who I help with creating their content strategy are overwhelmed by the very thought of creating so much content.
You don’t have to feel overwhelmed when it comes to content. As mentioned in my last post, start with choosing to either write articles, record podcasts, or produce videos. Choose one type.
Then select a publishing schedule. If you’re just getting started and find a weekly schedule intimidating, start with monthly and work your way up.
You may not have experience in writing articles, recording podcasts, or uploading videos. In the beginning, no one really does. Over time, you gain experience, you will become comfortable and faster with the process, and you’ll gain clarity in your messages.
The longer you publish, you’ll build your library of content. You'll be able to repurpose your content in many ways in the future.
The cool thing is you can begin repurposing right away.
Today's episode is short and sweet. I share how you can systemize one…
playlist_add
Nov 27, 2019
#087 – Your Business Growth Depends on It
As business owners, we help solve other people's problems. You use your knowledge and experience to help others.
Bottom line: The fundamental element in marketing your business is creating consistent content.
If you believe that creating content doesn’t apply to you, you may very well be mistaken.
The word “content” can encompass many tiny elements. Basically, any piece of communication that you'll be sharing with others may be considered content.
For today's show, the kind of content I'm addressing is committing to publishing either a blog article, a video, or a podcast. Choose one to be your foundation content and commit to a consistent schedule.
Although sharing little snippets on social media is considered content in the bigger picture...you should be publishing something more substantial...like your article, video, or audio. Then SHARE your article, video, or audio on social with a link back to the original post.
The way I see it, you have a choice of what would be you…
playlist_add
Nov 20, 2019
#086 – Building Your Personal Brand to Grow Your Business
Today’s show is focused on the importance of starting and building your personal brand to grow your business.
As the owner of a virtual assistant business, I have a unique perspective and hands-on knowledge of what strategies are working for one may work for another. Perspective on being exposed to different programs, tools, services, and resources. This perspective is very useful to my clients.
With this knowledge, I’ve known for a long time how building your personal brand makes a huge difference in building your business, yet for some strange reason, I didn’t think it applied to me…to my business.
I was wrong.
The real reason I waited five years to step out behind the safety of my company name was…
I was apprehensive to stick my neck out and be in the foreground of my business.
If you’re a coach, consultant, speaker, solopreneur, service provider, sell products through a MLM company, or consider yourself a small business owner, cultivating your personal branding pr…
playlist_add
Nov 13, 2019
#085 – Health and Business with Nurse Mary
They say if you’re doing what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life. Sometimes it can be hard to find what you’re truly passionate about.
That’s why I invited Mary Howard to this week’s show. Mary is a registered nurse who is passionate in helping you keep your body healthy so that you live your life to its fullest.
In this episode, Mary and I get into discussing our thoughts when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle. After all, being and staying healthy has a lot to do with our success in business and in life.
We also tap into Nurse Mary’s business growing experience as she shares what things worked and what tactics didn’t when it comes to marketing her health and wellness business.
We scratch the surface of talking about how to nurture communication with your contacts using email. Unexpectedly, we started discussing Russell Brunson’s Expert Secrets book, which we both highly recommend.
Enjoy!
Resources:
* Mary Howard
* AskNurseMary.com
* Powe…
playlist_add
Nov 6, 2019
#084 – Keeping it Clean with Squeegee Squad
In today’s show, you’re in for a special treat.
I’ve invited Eric and Melissa Summerville, owners of Squeegee Squad of the Springfield, Missouri region. I first met Eric in 2014 as we belonged to the same local networking group.
We began working together and soon Eric, Melissa and I become good friends. Over the years, things have evolved with our businesses and although we no longer work together, we stay in touch as we genuinely love our friendship.
Squeegee Squad is a window-washing business. As you’ll find out from our conversation, they do more than windows.
I wanted you to meet Eric and Melissa because even though they don’t have an online business, they have discovered online tools and resources that have shaped how they do business and how they lead their team.
Learn why they decided to buy into a franchise and what keeps them motivated in growing their business even when things get tough.
Enjoy the episode as you get to know Eric and Melissa Summerville of Sque…
playlist_add
Oct 30, 2019
#083 - Why I Told Her Don't Do A Website
In this digital age, if you’re in business, having a website is a requirement.
Your website is your digital home. YOUR digital real estate. If you don’t have a website and are solely using social media to share your message, consider your content on borrowed land.
Your website paints a picture of who you are and what you stand for. It’s a means of helping people to get to know, like, and trust you. Those who you resonate with, will do business with you.
The consistent content you place on your website, along with your social media and email plans help start and grow relationships. All these digital avenues for communication with our clients make up our marketing foundation. If a website is so important, WHY did I steer my client NOT to build one for her business?
In today’s episode, I thought I'd pull the curtain back a bit and share tidbits of a recent consultation session I had with a client.
My client has a tough time with tech. It wasn’t until about a year or so ago…
playlist_add
Oct 22, 2019
#082 – Networking in Unlikely Places
What vision comes to mind when you hear the word “networking”?
A room full of business executives in their suit and ties mingling around shaking hands and passing out business cards? A place where you’ve got to have this stellar performance to sell what you have to offer? A place where you don’t feel like you fit in?
The word “networking,” for many of us, especially those of us who are introverts, conjure up feelings of dread. The interactions seem insincere and uncomfortable.
On many occasions, I’ve asked my husband, Robert, to join me to attend business networking events. He would graciously accompany me, but they’re certainly not his thing.
Robert is the behind-behind the scenes guy on the Scrivener Solutions team. His day job with Scrivener Solutions involves primarily editing and producing podcasts for our clients.
Marketing our company in official business networking channels is not where Robert’s area of excellent lies. Although he’s very talented in his…
playlist_add
Oct 16, 2019
#081 – Chunk it Down and Conquer Clutter with Theresa Volesky
One phrase I find myself saying often to my clients as we work through projects is to “chunk it down.”
When you have a mountain of a project to do, you need to chunk it down into manageable bits so you will make progress.
Some people have a knack in chunking things down. Some need a little help.
That’s why I invited Theresa Volesky to this week’s podcast.
Theresa is a professional organizer. She works with her clients assessing their piles cluttering up their living or working spaces. While those piles overwhelm her clients, leaving them paralyzed as to where to start, Theresa, she sees the piles and immediately knows how to conquer the project. She chunks it down.
I love Theresa’s story and wanted to bring her on the show for you to meet her. Now Theresa doesn’t have an online business…yet…
Her business is one on one client work. She started her business during transitions in her life. I think you’ll enjoy the episode as Theresa shares her journey.
Resources:…
playlist_add
Oct 7, 2019
#080 - Penny Rosema Interview | Don't Quit Your Day Job
In this episode, I’m proud to introduce you to Penny Rosema, owner of 2 Views International. Penny is a professional speaker and consultant specializing in negotiations. She also is the managing director of the Cookware Manufacturers Association.
I met Penny last year at the Less Annoying CRM user conference. Less Annoying CRM is one of the tools I, and some of my clients use, for our customer database.
Through a series of brief conversations at that conference, Penny and I ended up working together. I love working with Penny because she has such energy that I wish I could match. She says she’s all over the place, but I admire her momentum and how much she accomplishes.
I invited Penny to the show to share her experience of how she moved from corporate life to becoming a successful solopreneur. She shares great insight and tips about how she manages her business and her time.
Resources:
* Penny Rosema
* Website
* LinkedIn
* Facebook
* Twitter
* Negotiate Like a Bo…
playlist_add
Oct 2, 2019
#079 - Begin With the End in Mind
Steven Covey teaches us in his book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” that habit two is to begin with the end in mind.
The habit is basically refers to always having the image of the end of your life as your frame of reference to evaluate everything else. He says to start with a clear idea of your destination, so that what you're doing daily will always result in going in the right direction. The things that make your life busy should at least be important to you.
Clear idea of your destination...
Although, I agree that the clearer your picture you have of where you want to land in life…the easier it will be to make the right decisions to propel you forward.
However, does this mean that we should wait to take action until we have a clear picture of our destination?
If I would have waited until I had complete clarity to leave my traditional 9-5 job behind me, I would still be stuck in a lifestyle where I felt stifled.
This little two-word question started it all into…
playlist_add
Sep 25, 2019
#078 – Creating Her Dream Job with Brandy Van Riessen
You’re in for a real treat. I’ve asked my lead designer on the Scrivener Solutions team, Brandy Van Riessen to be on today’s show. I am excited for you to meet her, virtually speaking.
Brandy got her start with her very own work from anywhere business shortly she started her virtual assistant position with Scrivener Solutions. She owns and operates Olivia Mae Furnishings, her branding, web design, printables, and apparel company.
I hope you enjoy the episode as Brandy shares how she juggles being a mom to three wonderful youngsters, a coach’s wife with a hectic schedule, working as one of my virtual assistants, AND build her business.
I’m super proud of Brandy as I see all the opportunities that are ahead of her. I think it’s wonderful that she can grow her business at her own pace as she spends quality time raising her kids.
Another benefit of creating a work from anywhere business: if her husband has a job transfer to another part of the country, she doesn’t have to…
playlist_add
Sep 17, 2019
#077 – Behind the Curtain: Running a Travel Agency with Sharon Snow
In today’s show, I am excited to have Sharon Snow as my guest. You’ve heard about Sharon many times on the show as she is a Scrivener Solutions Virtual Assistant and is the go-to gal for our social media management.
Sharon also owns and operates Let’s Go Travel with Sharon, her work-from-anywhere business. I thought it would be wonderful for Sharon to share her experiences in growing her travel agency. We discuss the challenges she faces and the rewards she reaps from growing her business.
I learned a lot in our conversation, and I talk to her all the time. She even shares some secrets on how you too can get started in the travel agency business.
Enjoy!
Resources:
* Let’s Go Travel with Sharon
* Website
* Facebook
* Instagram
* 20 Work from Anywhere Job Ideas
playlist_add
Sep 11, 2019
#076 - Isn't Passive Income Supposed to Be Easy
If you're not sure what passive income is, it's defined as income resulting in cash flow on a regular basis with little effort.
That sounds fantastic, doesn't it? Like money for nothing!
Then why isn't everyone on the planet doing it?
Listen in on today's episode as I share my take on what stops most people from cashing in on passive income.
Could it be that you, subconsciously, think that getting money for nothing is morally wrong? Here's a little secret...
Don't let the concept fool you. When it comes to reaping the benefits of passive income, you will earn every cent.
You'll hear in this episode my ups and downs...yet not gonna give up...story on one of my revenue streams.
With every learning experience, things have gotten easier. That's not to say that I didn't throw up my hands wanting to quit. And that's not to say I won't want to quit in the future. But, this long-term ride for this passive income stream fits in very nicely with my traveling lifestyle.
Learn some ideas w…
playlist_add
Sep 4, 2019
#075 – The Pay Off of Consistent Content
An essential piece of growing your online business is most certainly publishing consistent content. Not just social posts. Not just emails. And not just a blog post. It's all three working together.
But where it all starts with your website...your blog.
New content published on your website on a consistent basis either in the form of a written article, a video, or a podcast is considered a part of your blog in my book.
In this episode, I share how from the first moment I began researching how to create my new online career back in 2012, I learned that consistent quality content was a key piece in my business growth. Yet, I resisted. I'd try. I'd start. I’d stop.
Here’s what was going through my mind and stopping me from creating content:
* I'm not an expert yet
* I'm not a writer
* Surely, I'm different...I can do this without consistent content
* I have no idea what to say or write
* No one will listen or read my stuff
* I don't have time
* This is hard
Are you…
playlist_add
Aug 27, 2019
#074 – Work from Anywhere Job Ideas
Having the desire to work from anywhere is one thing. Figuring out how to achieve the lifestyle is quite another. Especially if you’re unsure what your job would even be.
Let me tell you. Working in the same career for 20 years, I had no idea of the vast possibilities available when it came to work from anywhere job opportunities. I had been in the same industry for so long, it was hard for me to think of what I could do.
For many of us, it's a scary thing to venture out into the unknown and actually go after the lifestyle we truly want.
Ask yourself this… “If not now, then when?”
If you're working a day job and you're listening to this podcast and others like it, you’re searching for more out of your life. Then let's start with some ideas to get you heading in the right direction.
The biggest obstacle...or at least I thought so at the time...was answering this question:
“What the heck would be my job!?”
I had no clue.
All I knew was my experience in the medical f…
playlist_add
Aug 20, 2019
#073 – Why Be Normal?
I’m getting ready to do something that some may consider “not normal.” At least not normal by the standards of what you may know of me and my personality.
Here’s the question though…
Why be normal?
This week, I share things that I normally keep private. I even got a bit choked up as I was sharing memories of my brother.
Listen to the episode. You’ll hear what Iron Maiden and my brother has taught me about “normal.”
Learn how raising the question “Why be normal?” can help you achieve your goals.
Step out of what others may think you should do and what’s normal to do, and enjoy your journey in creating the life you truly want for yourself.
Drop me a note. Are you trying to do something, or achieve a goal, that to some closest to you think isn’t normal?
Enjoy!
Resources:
Gaylascrivener.com/member
playlist_add
Aug 13, 2019
#072 - Can a MLM Really Make You Rich?
There are many mixed feelings about multilevel marketing companies. Some say they are scams and look down on them. Others believe they are the quick fix to financial freedom.
I believe that a MLM can be a fantastic work from anywhere business, but it’s not for everyone.
If you're not familiar with what a multilevel marketing company is, generally speaking, you invest in the company by purchasing some sort of starter kit. From there, you are an un-salaried sales representative.
You earn a commission on the products you sell. You’re encouraged to bring on additional sales reps because you also earn commissions on the products they sell. In short, compensation is of a pyramid structure. The more reps you sign on and the more they sell, the more you earn.
In this week’s podcast, I share my failed experience with joining a MLM. You’d think I’d be down on them, but I know exactly why it failed and why I shouldn’t have joined in the first place. Maybe my experience will help y…
playlist_add
Aug 6, 2019
#071 – Ideas Soaring with A Raven Design
This week, I’m excited to share an interview with dear friends and nomadic travelers Autumn and Adam Raven. This interview was originally recorded for Robert and my Been There Doing That Podcast, but I thought there was some inspirational and motivational info about how they fund their travel lifestyle.
No matter if you aspire to have a work-from-anywhere lifestyle, would like to make a change and start your own thing, or if you are already knee-deep in your entrepreneurial journey, this episode gives you a whole new perspective.
I love how Autumn and Adam freely share the inventive ways they earn their living and create the freedom they love. It’s an episode to get you to thinking about all the possibilities and opportunities available out there.
My biggest takeaway from the conversation was there are so many opportunities to earn a great living AND create a lifestyle you desire.
What was your biggest takeaway from this conversation? I'd love to hear from you. Drop me an email…
playlist_add
Jul 31, 2019
#070 – Lesson Learned by Not Judging a Book by His Cover
We’ve all heard the saying “don’t judge a book by its cover.” But we all do! That’s why a lot of time and energy is devoted in product packaging.
Unfortunately, we make assumptions about people entirely too quickly. In this week’s podcast, I share how I decided not to judge and sought out a conversation. Listen and learn what I learned from 87-year young Dale Smith when it comes to broadcasting your message and managing all the tech that goes with it. Resources Mentioned:
* Fiverr
* MyNetworks
* Dale Smith
* Ray Edwards Copywriting Academy Live
playlist_add
Jul 22, 2019
#069 – Getting the Most Out of Live Events
Live events are important for both your personal and professional growth. In today’s podcast, I share what I believe are the most important things to remember about live events. Highlights
Make the investment in yourself. Budget to go to one or two seminars or conferences annually.
Although going to live events can lead to a new client or two, let it come from genuine interaction, not a “push them in the corner and buy from me” scenario. No one likes that guy at the event.
Go there to learn and participate. If there’s after-hours mingling, go. If there are lunch break-out sessions, go. Immerse yourself.
Live events are a great place to gain inspiration, but turn inspiration into action. Take at least a day afterward to go through your notes and turn your notes into action plans.
Follow-up with the people you had deeper conversations with. Drop them a note. Just be yourself and continue on that relationship online. Resources Mentioned:
* Copywriting Academy Live 2019…
playlist_add
Jul 16, 2019
#068 – You Don’t Have to be Techy to be Successful Online
With everything you must do to grow your small business does the thought of all the tech stuff make you want to crawl in a corner and hide?
The tech is supposed to make our lives easier, but it runs at lightning speeds and is overwhelming.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a place to go to be shown the basics to get you started and get you over the hump of your fear of tech?
In today’s podcast, I invited my husband Robert to the show. He doesn’t consider himself a “techy” person. We discuss the launching of his personal brand website. He feels comfortable with knowing the basics and experimenting with his messages and his communication to grow his following and grow his freelancing business.
Most of us, when just starting out, don’t have the budget to hire people to do our blogging, email campaigns, social posts, etc. We are doing everything ourselves. The thing is…we are overwhelmed as to what to do and where to start.
To leverage your time, wouldn’t it be nice to have…
playlist_add
Jul 9, 2019
#067 – Why You Should Blog Even if You Don’t Know What to Say
Do you produce a blog consistently? Either publishing an article, podcast, or video on your website?
No? Why not?
In today’s podcast, I share that I waited far too long to start my blog. I should’ve started producing consistent content way before my corporate life ended.
I didn’t because at the time I opened my own business, I didn’t realize the impact of a consistent blog would have on the longevity of my business.
I had this misperception that I needed to have everything about my business figured out and have a formal content plan drafted before I should start my blog. When I first started my business, I didn't have a clear picture of who my ideal client would be...let alone how to talk with them.
I felt inadequate because I'd see what the people I follow were doing and would become overwhelmed.
They are doing so much! Blogging, social posts, live events, courses, podcasting, video. And then they talk about stuff like list building, freebies, email segmentation, tagging…
playlist_add
Jul 3, 2019
#066 – Why You Should Join a Networking Group
Getting out and meeting new people face-to-face is essential in growing your business.
Don't wait until you think you've got everything figured out before you join a group. You need to get out and tell people what you're doing.
When you show up, you are establishing credibility with the other members in the group and more importantly, you're keeping a promise to yourself. You’re gaining confidence in yourself that you can do this! You can grow your business!
In today’s episode I share when I opened Scrivener Solutions, I knew the very first thing I should do is tell people. I joined a networking group that met weekly and I remained dedicated in attending whether I wanted to or not.
A networking group shouldn’t be solely viewed as only gaining referrals. True, you’ll earn referrals and grow your business when you engage, listen, and grow as an individual.
When you do new things, it's a scary thing. I had no idea of my exact direction or even a picture of who my ideal client…
playlist_add
Jun 26, 2019
#065 – Distractions That Suck the Life Out of Your Business
When you work for yourself, you must become even more disciplined than you would be when working for someone else. You must, at a minimum, show up to work, just to keep your job. When you work for yourself, it’s up to you to hold yourself accountable.
You may say you don't have time to build your business, but in reality, you will make the time for things that are really important to you. If creating and growing your own business is truly important to you, you'll make the time to move forward.
When you’re your own boss, you will be challenged with many distractions. In today’s episode, I share my thoughts about alleviating some of those distractions.
No matter what it is in life if you find yourself saying "I should be doing..." and yet you’re doing some other activity that’s taking you away from growing your business...perhaps you need to cut it out of your routine...at least for a period of time.
I'd love to hear from you. Email info@scrivenersolutions.com and share wha…
playlist_add
Jun 19, 2019
#064 – Leaving Security of a Day Job for the Uncertainty of Entrepreneurship
In today’s podcast, I share what I was going through in my transition from my day job and what, in hindsight, I should have done. Today's show is for you if you are frustrated in your day job and want to leave but don't know where to begin. It's also a show for those of you who say to yourself that you'll be leaving your day job…someday…but find yourself staying. You may have started your own business on the side, but you aren't working on it because you have convinced yourself that you must stay at your day job for the security.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with working for someone else. In fact, I appreciate the time and experience I gained when working for someone else. I also appreciate my staff and anyone that helps our company reach our goals.
But if you find yourself constantly complaining about working for someone else and wishing you had your own business and create freedom for yourself, it’s time to act. Instead of complaining and wishing, you have it within yo…
playlist_add
Jun 12, 2019
#063 – Game Over! My Data is Gone
It happened. That sinking feeling that everything was lost.
All that data…all those images…at least a terabyte worth…GONE!
That’s when I heard it.
From my memory banks, I heard the sound-byte of PacMan dying in my head. You know… those few notes that are played when the game is over.
Losing your data isn’t just sad, it can be costly…especially in your business. Costs come from the time you spend in recreating your work that was lost. You may also incur the expense of having someone trying to retrieve the data for you.
Drives fail. Computers crash. You spill tea on your laptop.
This stuff happens! And it happens at the most inopportune times.
In this week’s podcast, I tell you my “Game Over” story with my 2T hard drive. I share other stories and how backups and redundancy systems for your data should be elevated to the top of your mind.
Don't let the excuses of "I don't know how" or "I'm not techy" stop you from saving your important data. Those are excuses!…
playlist_add
Jun 5, 2019
#062 - Work from Anywhere Challenge: Schedule
The work from anywhere lifestyle presents many challenges. One of which creating a schedule where you can work and grow your business while enjoying a travel lifestyle.
In today's episode, I discuss how creating a schedule and keeping appointments you make with yourself is important in the growth of your business. The schedule you create that will really work for you takes experimentation. It also takes a great deal of discipline.
Each year, for the past few years, Robert and I take off for at least three to five weeks to travel slowly toward and back home again to Overland Expo events. These travel times become our workcations. We blend our work along with some vacation time during our weeks of being gone.
We've learned a lot since we hit the road for our very first month long trek, so many years ago. And we are still learning.
Not everyone aspires to have an overlanding lifestyle like my husband, Robert, and I have. We become nomadic. There's a different level of uncertainty and…
playlist_add
May 29, 2019
#061 - Work From Anywhere Challenge : Power
The work from anywhere lifestyle presents many challenges. One of which is how to keep your systems all powered up.
In today's episode, I have my husband, Robert, join me to talk about our travel set-up and how he manages to keep our work from anywhere office all charged up.
He explains how he has set up batteries, solar, and inverters in our ’98 Jeep Wrangler overlanding set-up. We recall some things we’ve learned along the way.
Enjoy the episode…it’s always a little silly when Robert and I record a podcast together.
Resources Mentioned:
* Been There Doing That Podcast
playlist_add
May 22, 2019
#060 - Work From Anywhere Challenge : Internet
The choice to have a work from anywhere lifestyle, while it's rewarding to say the least...there are many challenges.
At the top of the list of challenges is internet.
In today's episode, I thought I'd share how we deal with our never-ending saga of finding enough internet to work.
I'm not going to lie to you, sometimes it becomes a stressful situation to find internet service. Sometimes, we must change our plans in search for internet signal to finish projects. Sometimes, projects are delayed. There's a certain amount of stress when it comes to internet challenges.
I'm much better in dealing with the challenges of internet connectivity than I was eight years ago. My stress level, although it’s there, is not nearly as overpowering. It's a challenge and almost a game to figure out how to plan and work.
I hope you’ll get some ideas by listening to how Robert and I handle our internet connectivity. Maybe it will give you the inspiration to branch out and have your office somewher…
playlist_add
May 15, 2019
#059 - Big Leap or Incremental Change?
It’s hard to believe that I could be actually recording this podcast in the Santa Fe National Forrest in New Mexico. If you were to tell me 10 years ago that I'd be camping in a rooftop tent and living out of our ‘98 Jeep Wrangler for weeks at a time...while at the same time running and growing a business...I'd think you were crazy.
Ten years ago, this type of lifestyle just seemed like a pipe dream. Actually, the dream wasn't even formed yet.
My husband, Robert, and I live a “work from anywhere” lifestyle. We like to travel weeks at a time, being nomadic, and experiencing wonderful journeys along the byways of our beautiful countryside.
We are not traveling as much as we'd like, but we are traveling more than most. We are always working to experience more. To stretch ourselves to earn a living by helping others with their businesses but also creating a lifestyle we enjoy. It sparks our motivation and it sparks our life's enjoyment.
I've been talking a lot about mindset i…
playlist_add
May 8, 2019
#058 - How Growing a Bamboo Tree is Like Growing Your Business
I was inspired by an article that my team member, Arlene, wrote for one of our direct mail newsletter clients. He's a financial advisor and the article was about the Chinese bamboo tree and how it relates to your financial planning.
I thought it was a great article and wanted to share it in today's podcast. It’s a great analogy for not just doing your financial plan, but for many things in life, like growing your business.
Once planted, like all plants, the bamboo tree requires water, fertile soil, and sunshine. In the first year, there are no visible signs of growth. There are still no visible signs of growth in the second, third, and even the fourth year.
Finally, in the fifth year, there is astonishing growth. The tree grows 80 feet in just six weeks.
Is it a miracle?
No.
The little tree grows underground, developing a root system strong enough to support its potential for outward growth in the fifth year and beyond.
In our culture of instant gratification, we want immed…
playlist_add
May 1, 2019
#057 - How to Handle a Negative Review
This week’s episode is short and to the point. We all have the chance to receive a negative review. Reviews are a good opportunity to scrutinize our systems and look for ways of improvement.
There’s no avoiding it, negative reviews hurt. It’s like being kicked in the gut.
And for the small business owner, it seems ten times worse. It seems that one negative review could discount all the positive ones you’ve collected.
Remember this…
It’s not about the negative review, but it’s the manner in which you respond to the review that really counts. When you respond in a level-headed professional manner, people will take that into consideration.
I invite you to listen as I share the three things you should remember before responding to a negative review.
playlist_add
Apr 24, 2019
#056: Thinking Big and Building Teams
I’m in a great place in my career where I gain a lot of perspective on building teams.
First, as a virtual assistant where I first started out as a freelancer who picked up a few clients here and there to help them behind the scenes with various tasks.
Second, as a business owner where I understand the challenges of building a team but also know the importance of team building when growing beyond what I could do myself.
In observance of Administrative Professionals Day, I dedicate this week’s podcast to thinking big and building teams.
There are more opportunities than ever when it comes to growing your business. In today’s episode I share both perspectives:
* Being a part of a team as a virtual assistant
* Creating a thriving team as a business owner
I invite you to listen as I share how cost-effective and smart it is to delegate a little at a time. Starting out small is beneficial for both parties…the business owner and the virtual assistant.
It’s important to be…
playlist_add
Apr 17, 2019
#055: When Spam Happens to Good People
We’re busy people, right? We don’t have the time to be bothered by unwanted messages. Being bothered and annoyed is one thing, but being manipulated, deceived or even cheated is so much worse.
Most people I know, myself included, hate spam and don’t want to be associated with being a person who dishes it out. In today’s podcast, I share some of the spammy things that have happened to me.
Little acts of spammy annoyances or just plain maliciousness sure does make it harder for you and me, who are just trying to connect with folks, to grow our businesses.
The idea of bothering people or afraid of being associated as a spammer slows most small business owners down in building and marketing their services. The fear of being lumped into a category of being a spammer shouldn’t stop you from marketing your business.
What’s important is that you implement good, honest practices to truly attract and connect with those who you serve.
In this episode, I talk about the obstacles e…
playlist_add
Apr 10, 2019
#054: What’s Stopping You from Producing Consistent Content?
This week’s show is all about getting your voice and your message out there. It’s a show about content.
Producing content means consistently adding to your blog. Whether it’s writing an article, creating a podcast, or a video, consistently adding content to your website is important. (Did I mention consistently?)
Content also means your social posts and emails. Even good old-fashioned snail mail is considered content in my book.
Content is what you produce so people will understand what you do, how you can help them, and basically get to know you better. When people get to know you and trust is built, they will want to do business with you. In practically every marketing book out there, you’ll see phrases about the importance of know, like, and trust. And it is so true!`
When you provide value and information, you establish authority and influence in your area of expertise. Your audience will turn to you for answers and inspiration. You build trust and confidence. You build…
playlist_add
Apr 3, 2019
#053: Want Freedom and Work from Anywhere? Embrace Technology
If you are longing to gain more freedom in your work and your lifestyle, you must embrace technology.
You don’t have to be a whiz at all the apps or programs or anything tech, but you certainly don’t have to let the fear of tech limit your growth. Today’s podcast is all about changing your mindset of tech fear to embracing it.
Indeed, with all the new tech available to us right at our fingertips, and always changing, I wholeheartedly understand how easy it is to feel overwhelmed.
Too often, the conversation we have in our heads telling us we “can’t” will hinder our growth.
Join me in today’s episode as I give examples of how overcoming any fear of tech will open your opportunities for more freedom in your life. Resource Mentioned:
* Been There Doing That | Our Work from Anywhere Lifestyle
* Like Gayla Scrivener Business Facebook Page
Thank you for tuning in…
I appreciate you tuning into The Gayla Scrivener Show today. If you enjoyed today’s episode, pleas…
playlist_add
Mar 27, 2019
#052: Making Room for Change…The Art of Time Blocking
Do you really want change? I mean really want change?
With everything you must do in any given day, how on earth will you find the time?
Far too often we remain stuck in an area of life because we become comfortable. Comfortable doesn’t necessarily mean that we’re happy in that area of life we wish were different.
You grow accustomed to the sameness of routine. You may go to work each day, yet long to do something else. Even though you may be unhappy, frustrated, or shall I say…miserable…you remain doing the same routine each and every day. Why? The routine you’ve made for yourself becomes a level of comfort.
To achieve any goal, to accomplish any big task, to make BIG things happen, you must prioritize your time. This means creating new routines.
Changing your routine may make you uncomfortable. Change forces us to learn new habits. It forces us to think differently and learn new things.
For some people, embracing change doesn’t seem hard. For some, they actually loo…
playlist_add
Mar 20, 2019
#051: Linking Experts for Massive Business Growth with Joanne Weiland
In this week’s podcast, I share the second half of my conversation with Joanne Weiland, owner of LinktoEXPERT.com. You met Joanne in episode #048: Building the Right Connections on a Large Scale.
In 2007, Joanne created a platform to make it easy to link experts to decision makers in organizations to benefit both parties. Experts like coaches, consultants, speakers, team builders, trainers, facilitators, and authors in the LinktoEXPERT community are scaling their networking efforts and growing their businesses in tremendous ways.
My and Joanne’s conversation continues as we discuss what it takes to become a member of the LinktoEXPERT community and how membership can scale a solopreneur’s business.
Joanne shares how creating original content is more important than ever when it comes to marketing your business. The decision makers in who will hire you must feel like they know you by viewing a sample of your body of work before they even consider hiring you.
Have a listen to the…
playlist_add
Mar 13, 2019
#050: Why I Changed My Podcast Branding
It’s time to celebrate! I think it’s pretty cool to have accomplished publishing fifty podcast episodes.
This fiftieth episode, I did something drastic. I changed my branding from the Accomplish More podcast to The Gayla Scrivener Show.
The reason was I had been struggling with the “Accomplish More” name. Accomplish more is the tagline of my virtual assistant business, Scrivener Solutions.
It works in that space. When you hire a virtual assistant, you will literally accomplish more. When you accomplish more by getting more of the routine work done in your business, your focus and mental energy are better diverted to other business growth activities. The activities only you can do.
As the saying goes, “many hands make light work,” when you’re ready to delegate to your first VA, you’ll truly understand what that means. It’s quite a remarkable feeling to build a great team with systems that make things happen without you thinking about it.
I love my Scrivener Soluti…
playlist_add
Mar 6, 2019
#049 - Stretch Like Stretch Armstrong
Do you remember Stretch Armstrong? You know, the little toy where you could stretch his arms and legs to at least four times their length?
Do you ever feel stretched thin with everything that you must do? Stretched because you are going in many different directions and are struggling to decide what should be at the top of your priority list?
Building a business, leveraging your time and achieving freedom won’t happen overnight nor is it without its work. Your success happens because of the little things you do on a consistent basis over time. It begins with little habits. You build on those habits. Soon, you’ll be creating a business using your talents and your experience to help others which leads to creating the lifestyle you want.
Creating something new requires us to stretch. Learning something new requires us to stretch. Sometimes stretching is uncomfortable as we get out of our comfort zone.
You will wonder how you’ll get it all done. You will feel behind. But don’t l…
playlist_add
Feb 27, 2019
#048: Building the Right Connections on a Large Scale | An Interview with Joanne Weiland
It's important to get out there and shake some hands to make valuable and meaningful connections. When you network, you learn a lot about others, their businesses, and even yourself.
There comes a time when you need to break through and do more than just pass out business cards never to see the person again. There comes a time when you need to connect on a larger scale.
In this week’s podcast, I have a conversation with Joanne Weiland, Chief Collaborations Officer at LinktoEXPERT.
In 2007, Joanne created a platform to make it easy to link experts to decision makers in organizations to benefit both parties. Experts like coaches, consultants, speakers, team builders, trainers, facilitators, and authors in the LinktoEXPERT community are scaling their networking efforts in tremendous ways.
In our conversation, Joanne shares how she ran herself ragged running all over town networking and connecting and she knew there was a better way.
There are unique challenges when growing a busine…
playlist_add
Feb 20, 2019
#047 - Why You Should Start A Habit of Consistent Content
Content is simply building on the communication you would do in a face-to-face situation.
In today's podcast, I share how you should get started with creating content.
The best way to get to know anyone is by talking with them face-to-face.
There is no way to be face-to-face with everyone all the time.
To leverage your time, you must create habits that allow people to get to know you better and understand how you may help them even if you aren't right in front of them.
You do this by extending the conversation through content.
Consistently being present through producing content builds trust and allows others to get to know you better so that they will want to do business with you. You will begin to attract those who you may serve best and will become your ideal client.
Ideally, you would be creating content on your website on a weekly basis. But what if you don't have a website yet? Don't let that stop you from getting started with the habit of creating consistent content.
If…
playlist_add
Feb 13, 2019
#046: Achieving More Work Freedom is Possible
Things with the podcast will be changing. Soon, it will no longer be called the Accomplish More Podcast. Instead, I’m transitioning into updating the name that is more aligned with how I feel compelled to help you.
Accomplish More is the subtitle of my virtual assistant business, Scrivener Solutions. It works well there. Those who have been in business a while and are ready to delegate to a team of VAs need the extra set of hands to help them accomplish more.
Over the past few years, I’ve been helping those of you who aren’t ready to delegate yet. I’ve been serving as a guide and someone to bounce off ideas. Many times, over coffee, I’d have various conversations with colleagues and friends about different things that mainly circled back around to having more freedom.
Some feel stuck in jobs and chained to one location and have no idea how to break away. They look at Robert and my lifestyle and wonder how we can break away and travel so much.
Some are new in their busines…
playlist_add
Feb 6, 2019
#045: The Secret of a Solid Marketing Foundation
Over the years, by helping coaches, consultants, online educators, and other small business owners by being their extra set of hands in their marketing efforts, I’ve seen what makes up a solid marketing foundation.
In today’s episode, I share what I’ve learned and wish I knew when I first opened Scrivener Solutions. Marketing doesn’t have to be salesy and uncomfortable.
Being a small business owner is wonderful. You have the opportunity to connect and build relationships in a way that will make your work meaningful and fun. You make real connections.
Connecting with people face-to-face is always preferred. And that may be very well where you start. But there’s only one of you, many people to help, and only so many hours in the day. How to get more done in less time.
How do you leverage your time and increase your influence in your market? The answer is simple really.
Build a strong marketing foundation. You will save time and money in the long run by developing your syst…
playlist_add
Jan 30, 2019
#044: Building Your Online Marketing Foundation to Scale Your Business
When the company I was working for seven years ago closed its doors, I decided to not look for another medical job. Instead I started my own business. I jumped in with both feet. I was determined to make it work.
I was scared to death, but I was ready for a drastic life change. I read book after book about marketing in today’s digital world.
What did I find?
Everything was pointing me to write. What I didn’t understand then, but I do now, was that those books were giving me the advice to build a marketing platform or foundation.
Write? I’m not a writer. That’s what I thought at the time, anyway.
I didn’t believe what I was reading.
So, what did I do? I dismissed it. Writing is hard work. There’s got to be an easier way.
The more I resisted the fact that writing, the longer I delayed building a strong foundation for my business.
As I began to work with clients and help them with their marketing tasks, my eyes were opened. I saw how my clients’ businesses grew with…
playlist_add
Jan 23, 2019
#043: Overcoming the Obstacles in Our Way of Success. An Interview with Amy Anfinson
We all have obstacles to overcome whether business or person. Most obstacles are self-inflicted. Meaning we listen to the voices in our heads which plant seeds of doubt in what we can truly accomplish.
One of my favorite sayings is:
“You can’t read the label when you’re inside the bottle.”
Seeking an outside perspective helps you to see the things you either didn’t realize or have forgotten.
In this week’s episode, I wanted to introduce to you Amy Anfinson, Positive Change Coach. Amy helps countless people get out of their own way and to recognize their inner strength to achieve transformation and growth in their lives and businesses.
I’m excited for you to listen to the episode as Amy talks about how important it is to understand yourself and know what works for you. It can be a journey in finding those key individuals to truly boost your growth.
Finding the right coaching for you so you’ll surround yourself with the people and the thoughts and ideas that spark c…
playlist_add
Jan 16, 2019
#042: The One Thing Holding You Back from Achieving Success
There’s mainly one thing holding you back from achieving the success you desire.
Before we dive into that, let’s first break it down on what it means to be successful. Success
Dictionary.com defines success as “the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors; the accomplishment of one’s goals.”
But success has different meanings to different people. Everyone in his or her mind has a unique definition of what success means to them.
So much of the time, people put pressure on themselves because they are measuring themselves based on someone else’s ruler of what it means to be successful.
They are afraid of what other people think of them. They make up stories in their mind of what they think other people think of them. They make up stories in their minds believing they fall short of success.
Do you do this? It’s OK if you do…I know I find myself doing it.
On today’s episode, I share how I was measuring myself against other people’s rulers and w…
playlist_add
Jan 2, 2019
#041 - The Reason Why I Quit Marketing My Business
In today’s episode, I wanted to explain why I was laying low for a while and broke off communication. Nothing bad happened or anything. In fact, some marvelous things were unfolding.
Truth be told, sometimes you have to stop what you're doing and evaluate. Question everything. Regroup and refocus.
As we begin the new year, you may be anxious to get started on your new goals. First, listen to this episode. I hope that it helps you gain perspective on your business and your direction. It's OK to become lost sometimes. It's OK to stop what you're doing to regroup and refocus. Resources Mentioned:
My new personal brand website | GaylaScrivener.com
Content Marketing Virtual Assistance| ScrivenerSolutions.com
playlist_add
Sep 4, 2018
#040 - Three Habits to Increase Your Social Media Productivity
Social media communication is fast and constant. You should have a foundation of consistent posts to be active on your favorite social media platform. In this week’s episode, I go over the three habits you should implement today to increase your social media productivity.
To sum it up, the three habits you should implement today to be efficient and save you time with your social media posts are: Plan Your Content
Stay focused by creating a theme for your content. Having a theme per month is an easy way to break things down. Your theme will guide you on how you’d like to communicate on your favorite social media platform.
If you are just sitting there with a blank canvas without any inspiration or direction, then the canvas usually stays blank. When you set a plan for yourself, you don’t have to wait until inspiration strikes on what to post, just follow your plan. Schedule Your Posts
Once you have your plan in place, then it makes it easy to schedule your posts. There is no n…
playlist_add
Aug 28, 2018
#039 - How Social Media Fits into Your Small Business Marketing Plan
Social media marketing is such a hot topic. It seems like everyone wants all the latest tricks and gadgets to be able to extend their reach and beat the system of social media engagement. Of course, I’m not any different in wanting to know how to communicate better through social media.
But, it’s my opinion that there is a lot of misconceptions when it comes to social media. There seems to be a lot of high hopes or skewed views of promoting businesses through social media. I find that many people hope it will be their magic bullet in opening the floodgates of sales.
Social media is a powerful and wonderful tool, however, it’s no magic bullet. The first and foremost purpose of social media is to make a connection with people.
You need a foundation and system for consistently communicating and learning from your audience in the social media space. I hope you enjoy today’s episode as I review how social media fits into your small business marketing plan.
Additional Resources M…
playlist_add
Aug 21, 2018
#038 - 5 Questions You Must Ask Yourself Before Sharing Your Passwords
You’re a solopreneur and feel pretty assured that you have control over all your stuff. To accomplish more and achieve significant growth in your business, you’ll begin forming your perfect team. Hiring anyone, whether it’s an independent contractor or an employee, you are trusting them to get the job done and achieve the outcomes you desire.
You have a handle on your passwords, but now you need to delegate. You’re advised to never share your passwords. But for all practical purposes, there comes a time when you must share some of your passwords simply to get more done.
Most of the time, when you bring on an assistant to be your extra set of hands, you will inevitably need to be sharing access to some of your accounts, therefore will be giving away passwords.
Whether you are already delegating or haven’t started yet, it’s a good idea to create a best practices policy for sharing passwords to help protect you and your team.
Last week’s show I talked in depth about the…
playlist_add
Aug 14, 2018
#037 - Taming the Chaos of Password Management
Securing our passwords is super important. With cyber hacking everywhere, the bad guys certainly have us on edge. It seems like we are fighting a nameless and faceless enemy.
Everything we have access to online has a username and password associated with it. There’s no avoiding it. Password management can get disorganized quickly making you feel annoyed and frustrated.
In today’s show, I go over several tips to remember when setting up user passwords. Then, I go over some thoughts on storing those passwords. And finally, I share with you the tool I use for Scrivener Solutions to keep my passwords and my client’s passwords secure and organized.
Below is an outline of the areas I discuss in today’s episode. I hope you enjoy and have many takeaways that you can implement today.
Tips to Remember When Creating Passwords
* Never use the same password for every account you have.
* Don’t reuse passwords to sights with sensitive information, i.e. bank access
* Include words…
playlist_add
Aug 7, 2018
#036 - Why Control Over Your Website Is Important
In this week’s podcast, I go over why control isn’t a bad thing. I believe that there’s a healthy kind of control and then there’s the micro-manager freaky kind of control.
Control Isn’t a Bad Thing
Overall, as small business owners, we need to be able to have the control and flexibility over our systems so that we may adapt and change to fit our clients’ needs and to the market’s ever-changing climate. That’s the beauty of having your own business, you can have the control you want to make the changes you want when you want to make them.
One obstacle that you may when deciding to delegate is feeling like you will lose some control over your business. I contend that the best clients who delegate to virtual assistants are the very individuals who don’t want to lose control. They shift their mindset with being bothered with the details to making sure the outcomes are what they want. They spend more time thinking on how things should be and get the help they need to a…
playlist_add
Jul 31, 2018
#031 - When Email Campaigns Don’t Work
In the pursuit of accomplishing more, we should remember to take a step back and to not complicate things.
In this week’s podcast, I give you an example of how a friend of mine was wanting to do a create an extensive email and social campaign to fill the remaining seats of his seminar. He had high expectations of what the results would be, and I was afraid that he’d be sorely disappointed.
Without an already active email campaign or social media strategy nurturing the relationship of his contacts, I didn’t think a quick email “blast” or a couple of social posts on an account he rarely posts to would be effective.
To reach his goal of filling his seminar, I suggested something different. I suggested something with a more personal touch. Listen to this week’s episode to hear the entire story and my take on how email campaigns and social media works in your ongoing marketing methods. I’ll give you a little secret…it’s not always about selling.
If you aren’t activel…
playlist_add
Jul 25, 2018
#034 - Three Actions You Must Do Consistently When Marketing Your Business
Whether we like it or not, every small business owner needs to become a good marketer.
This week's episode revolves around the three actions you must do consistently when marketing your business. The three actions aren't revolutionary and I'm sure you've heard it before, but my question is... Are you actually taking action CONSISTENTLY in all three areas?
Working together, the three actions will help you build a strong foundation for your marketing plan. Once you have a handle on your process and become consistent with it, you gain the trust and authority that you need to make your paid advertising much more effective. It makes "selling" so much easier. Imagine...business coming to you instead of your chasing after business.
What are the three actions? Have a listen to the episode.
You will discover that you may already be on the right track. You may need help in some areas. Action and consistency are key here. Whether you do all three yourself or delegate pieces so you may achieve…
playlist_add
Jul 10, 2018
#033 - What is a Mastermind?
The topic of masterminds is huge and seems to be a big buzz word nowadays. Everyone should be a part of a mastermind.
The concept isn’t new. Napoleon Hill is credited for coining the term “mastermind” in his book 1930’s book Think and Grow Rich.
He defines it as “The coordination of knowledge and effort of two or more people, who work toward a definite purpose, in the spirit of harmony.”
He goes on to say, “No two minds ever come together without thereby creating a third, invisible intangible force, which may be likened to a third mind [the master mind].”
In the strictest sense, a true mastermind is a group that offers a combination of education, brainstorming, and peer support and accountability. Usually it’s a small group where members sharpen their business or personal skills and challenge each other to achieve lofty goals. There’s a facilitator, but they shouldn’t be dominating the conversation. Everyone participates equally. Everyone in the group benefits…
playlist_add
Jul 3, 2018
#32 - Why All Businesses Should have a Facebook Page
There’s a lot of frustration and heartache when it comes to the subject of the reach Facebook awards Business Pages. Facebook always seems to be changing its algorithms and the only way to get exposure is to pay for ads. It leads people to wonder if they should even have a Facebook Page.
All the social media platforms are designed to enhance the end user experience, not to cater to businesses. If the end users complain about too many ads or ads that don’t relate to them, then of course the algorithms will change. As business owners, we shouldn’t be discouraged with the changing algorithms, but instead, we should be thinking of ways to connect and form relationships with our clients/customers in more meaningful ways.
In today’s podcast, I discuss the three main reasons why your business should have (or continue to use) a Facebook Business Page. Quickly, the reasons are:
* 2 Billion Users…big pool…big opportunity
* Facebook Pages may be viewed by non-Facebook users
*…
playlist_add
Jun 26, 2018
#031 - The Importance of Live Events for the Growth of Your Business
Last week, I attended the Less Annoying CRM user conference in St. Louis. Cute name, isn’t it? Well, I think so. I have to say, it has been my experience that it is actually less annoying than other systems I’ve worked with.
A CRM system is a powerful tool where you not only store your contacts, but it enhances your workflow. If you are only storing your contacts in your phone, as a Google contact, or even in an Excel spreadsheet, you are missing out on a huge efficiency opportunity by not using a CRM database.
As virtual assistants, my team and I are flexible. We work with the systems our clients choose and use. Sometimes, our clients will solicit my advice as to what systems to implement or what systems I have experience with.
If they are asking about a CRM, most of the time I recommend Less Annoying CRM. Some people are in industries where I may recommend an industry-specific CRM because of the features they offer that would be directly related to their industry.
However, fo…
playlist_add
Jun 12, 2018
#030 – Avoiding the Rabbit Trail of Selecting the Right Tools for Your Business
Today’s episode is all about tools. Not like those tools my husband uses to work on our vehicles or house. No, let’s talk about the tools we need as entrepreneurs.
Tools are created to scratch an itch, so to speak. You start with a problem and someone creates a tool to help solve that problem. But here’s the thing. There are a ton of tools out there to solve the same problem. How do you choose?
The abundance of tools available that seem to do the exact same thing can lead us down rabbit trails of research and indecision. It doesn’t have to be hard or complicated.
When choosing tools to help you run your business, of course, you’ll make your selection based on budget and ease of use. Sometimes you choose one tool simply to get you started. Then when you grow and expand, another system may fill your needs better.
Ultimately, you don’t want to have to do everything yourself forever. You want to scale your business and want things to be easier. Tools help get you there.
Th…
playlist_add
May 29, 2018
#029 – Can Your Business Run Without You?
Something happens. You can’t be fully engaged in running your business. You must drop practically everything and shift your focus. What will happen to your business? Can it run without you?
Running a small business certainly has its advantages. However, for some, running their business makes them feel trapped because they feel they can’t get away or they don’t feel like they have help. They continue to do everything themselves, become burnt out, even miserable in their own business.
It doesn’t have to be that way. A few weeks ago, I had to drop everything and shift my focus to family and healing. My world came to a stop, but my business didn’t have to. I could dramatically scale back what I needed to do and not have to close my business completely. How?
Listen to this week’s podcast as I share a little bit of what happened in my personal life that gave me better appreciation and perspective in how developing a team and processes will allow you to keep your business runni…
playlist_add
Apr 24, 2018
#028 - Defining Your Personal Brand
Early in my career, I was taught to dress for the job I wanted, not the job I had. I didn't quite understand it then, but over the years I learned how important personal branding really is.
Whether you call it your signature style or your go-to professional look, how much thought are you putting into marketing yourself effectively using the subtle clues of your wardrobe and communication?
Personal branding isn’t a new idea by any means but seems to have been lost over the years. It’s not just about dressing professional, it’s also about speaking confidently and conveying your thoughts and ideas effectively.
I'm excited to welcome back Kandice Alexander and Michele Rickman as we dive right into this subject. Kandace and Michele share how personal branding isn't stripping away your personality but rather builds a professional look with your own individuality.
Don’t miss Kandice and Michele's upcoming Show Them What You Know event on May 5th. To learn more about this event and…
playlist_add
Apr 17, 2018
#027 - Are You Overlooking a Small Yet Important Piece of Your Branding?
There's a lot to think about when branding your business. I go over what I think is a very important piece of branding your business. It's a piece that I see many small business owners or new business owners overlook.
It’s a minor and affordable detail, that if implemented and used correctly, complements your brand.
By doing this simple little detail, you are on your way of accomplishing more, because you’ll make things more clear for your customers and you are setting up processes to be able to delegate in the future.
I do hope you enjoy today's episode as I reveal the top five reasons you should be thinking about and implementing this branding detail. Are you overlooking this small yet important piece of branding your business?
Listen and let me know. Thank you for tuning in…
I appreciate you tuning into the Accomplish More Podcast today. There are many podcast choices out there and I’m honored that you chose mine. If you enjoyed today’s episode, please share.
If you…
playlist_add
Apr 10, 2018
#026 – Unleashing Your Fourth Dimension | Interview with Michele Rickman
How you connect both verbally and visually with the people you want to do business with is important. You only have just moments to make a good first impression.
In this episode, I share my recent interview with style coach Michele Rickman. Michele is the owner of 4D Style and Presentation Coaching. As a style coach, she helps business owners and professionals update their look and help with their presentation skills to help gain confidence and express themselves to reach your ideal client.
We are told at an early age that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover…but we all do!
Authors spend a lot of time and money on the design of their book covers to make their books more marketable. It’s similar with how we present ourselves as business owners…especially for those who are a personal brand.
Michele helps business owners with their presentation skills. Her coaching isn’t just for those who want to be professional speakers. Any business owner, especially those new to entrep…
playlist_add
Apr 3, 2018
#025 – How a Workcation Can Accelerate Business Growth
In the past, I’ve talked about the importance of planning and systems. Even back in Episode 15 [https://www.scrivenersolutions.com/15/], business coach, David Sims and I discussed how people don’t seem to do enough planning in order to achieve their goals. He mentioned that many people spend more time planning their next vacation than they do planning the growth of their business.
Consistency with systems will help you become efficient and more effective in your time management. Consistent systems are a very important foundation, but with routine sometimes comes complacency. You may become blinded to seeing new opportunities for growth.
Sometimes you should shake things up and pop out of your normal routine to renew motivation, be inspired, and get some much needed rest.
That’s why going to a retreat or seminar is great. You have the opportunity to network and to learn from others. Even taking an online class and devoting a part of your day to retreat from your normal routine…
playlist_add
Mar 27, 2018
#024 – Growing and Marketing a Personal Service Business | Interview with Kandice Alexander
In today’s podcast, I am pleased to feature Kandice Alexander. Kandice is the owner of 5 Elements Esthetics and Makeup Studio and Alexander Personal Image Styling. She is a tremendous resource when it comes to growing and marketing a personal service business.
Learn from Kandice as she shares tips about how she organizes her busy schedule as an entrepreneur, wife, and new mom. She shares how she uses her liberal arts degree every day even though she’s not in the industry any longer. Her degree and experience working as a director of many shows has helped her shape and grow her business in ways she never even realized possible.
She provides chemical free skin care therapies and has learned that the best way to grow her personal service business is through the connections she makes. Building relationships are important in the service industry. Putting your looks and your health in the hands of someone is intimate and requires a lot of trust. To bridge that trust gap means making a…
playlist_add
Mar 20, 2018
#023 – The Dollars and Cents of Hiring a Virtual Assistant
Money is a huge concern for most small business owners when it comes to deciding to hire someone. It’s probably the number one reason that holds most people back from getting help when they need it.
Because of our fear of how much hiring someone will cost, most of us will put on our superhero capes and trick ourselves that we can do everything.
What happens if we keep up the superhero pace?
* Burn out
* Health Problems
* No business growth
Having the right people in place to help you achieve your goals in your business is key. I can’t stress that enough. Whether you dream of having a huge corporation or always want to work out of your home, the right team is important to allow you to get you where you want to go in your business.
There’s no doubt about it, the largest line item on any Profit & Loss report is going to be labor. In today’s episode, I get to the heart of the matter and talk about the dollars and cents when it comes to hiring a virtual assistant.
First,…
playlist_add
Mar 6, 2018
#022 – How to Tame Inbox Chaos
Do you have an uncontrollable Inbox with thousands of unopened emails lurking there? Do you hate even opening your email because there’s just so much stuff there and you don’t know even how to begin to organize it? Or do you have a good handle on it?
Either way, in this week’s podcast I talk all about practices you can implement to tame the beast many call “email.”
Nowadays, some people think that email communication is dead, but it isn’t. It is very alive and well within business communication. Big companies email between departments. Meetings are arranged through email. Reports are sent through email. Reminders and announcements are sent via email. It’s the culture of communication. But you are a small business. Is email still important? Absolutely!
If you let it, you can be consumed with reading and answering email all day long. Email is a wonderful tool and very much a part of any business. You don’t have to let emails control you, you can have control and effect…
playlist_add
Feb 27, 2018
#021 – 5 Tasks You Should Never Delegate
Although it’s easy to say to do what you do best and delegate the rest, the reality is there are some things that you shouldn’t delegate.
When you create your business out of thin air and start from scratch, the wonderful thing is that you can create your own rules and processes. Yet, that’s also the downside because creating everything from scratch takes a lot of self-discipline. You must to figure things out for yourself, try new things, learn new things, and find the things that work best for you.
You have the wonderful opportunity in creating a company culture you want and achieve the profits you desire, whether you want to create a big team or a small one. Your team will be your largest investment you will make in your business. Learning what you can let go and what you should do yourself will evolve.
Last week I went over what types of tasks that are perfect to delegate. In this episode, I'm talking about the flipside of that… what you shouldn’t delegate.
In the mid…
playlist_add
Feb 20, 2018
#020 – 7 Activities You Should Delegate
When I first started Scrivener Solutions, I was freelancing and would do everything myself. With my background in operations and management, I’ve lead many teams and know the importance of structure, systems, and delegation.
The thing about working with small business owners and me becoming a small business owner myself, structure isn’t necessarily a daily reality. Even the most organized person who is pulled in so many directions finds it hard to have structure and processes in a small business.
The question comes up as to what to delegate and when. Delegating tasks is a process and is something that is perfect to start small and then build on. It’s great for your sanity and your budget.
In today’s podcast, I go over the 7 types of activities you should routinely evaluate and delegate.
As a business owner, you should be focusing your time on activities that further the growth of your business, like strategy, planning, servicing, and marketing.
To break things down even fu…
playlist_add
Feb 13, 2018
#19 - When Does Delegating Show A Return On Investment?
Recently, I’ve had this question posed to me, “When should I expect to see the return on investment for delegating tasks?”
Early on in any business, it’s hard to let go. More often than not, there’s a fear of not being able to afford help. Then when you decide to delegate that first task, you wonder how fast you’ll make your money back.
Taking the first step in delegating is taking your first step in becoming a leader and moving your business toward growth. So, how should you view ROI when it comes to delegating?
Time is an asset that once spent, you can’t make more of. You can’t hoard your time and use it just when you need it. It passes whether you like it or not.
When you begin delegating, think about what time you’ll free up, and what you will do with that newly found time that will affect your bottom line.
You should see the ROI on your financial statements, but first, you must see the return on your investment with your time spent doing other things to gene…
playlist_add
Feb 6, 2018
#018 - How to Become Intentional With Your Schedule
Do you ever feel scattered and lost in your direction? Maybe you have too many things to do without enough time to do them. I think we all struggle with this. Even the most organized people struggle with time management from time to time.
While you are in the midst of overwhelm, it’s easy to feel like you are all alone. With all the things piling up around you, all the pressure seems to be all on your shoulders, it’s hard to know where to get started. You feel paralyzed. We go through natural phases as we grow our businesses.
The line between personal and professional time is often blurred. Whenever you are working hard to make a significant change in your business, you must be more intentional with your time.
In today’s episode, I go over how important it is to use your schedule to move you forward to achieving big change. Being intentional with your time isn’t easy and can’t be done with the snap of a finger.
Maintaining a schedule is not something that is set in stone.…
playlist_add
Jan 23, 2018
#017 - How Making Waves Will Jumpstart Growth
When a door closes a window opens. I think it’s important to realize that we should take control and purposefully close some doors once in a while allowing room for windows of opportunities to open.
My past couple of weeks have certainly been full. My husband said that I had made some waves. What I actually did was set in motion some of the key action steps to make the changes I need to achieve my big goal for the year.
Some of the changes that were needed weren't easy, but they were necessary. You know the saying that you can't expect different results if you continue to do the same thing. There's certainly some truth to that, but you can't realize results unless you have some consistency and processes in place. There comes a time that you must grow and implement a new norm and that involves making waves.
In this episode, I explain what recent ripples I've made and how I felt I needed take action.
Although change can sometimes be difficult, three great things come out of making…
playlist_add
Jan 16, 2018
#016 - Building and Managing a Virtual Team
In today's podcast, I’m excited to share with you my recent interview with Jennifer Filla. Jen is the founder of Aspire Research Group and Prospect Research Institute.
We have been working together for several years and I thought it would be an excellent opportunity for you to hear her perspective on growing her businesses and starting to grow her virtual team. She reveals fabulous insight and is candid on what she has experienced on her journey of growing her small business.
Jen says that it takes a leap of faith to begin delegating. When she became serious about sales, she became serious about growing her team. She shares what her biggest fear is when it comes to team building and her strategy in pushing through that fear.
I think you’ll enjoy our discussion as we peek behind the scenes of our worlds. Resources Mentioned in Episode:
* Aspire Research Group
* Prospect Research Institute
* Slack
* Dropbox
* Nomadesk
* Dashlane Thank you for tuning in…
I apprecia…
playlist_add
Jan 8, 2018
#015 - The Missing Piece of Goal Setting
We have just entered a new year and goals are on many people’s minds. It’s one thing to set goals, but it’s a whole other thing to set things into motion to achieve those goals.
When it comes to writing down your goals, I'm sure you are very familiar with the acronym, S.M.A.R.T.
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Realistic
Time-sensitive
Once your goals are written down, then what?
If you are one to have goals written down only to be disappointed to not reaching them, then you know that there's something missing.
The missing piece?
Your strategic action plan.
When it comes to achieving your goals, you must take action and implement a plan. Many people set the goals and stop there. They don't know where to begin to systematically take action and see results.
In this week's episode, I'm delighted to be talking with Sales Coach, David Sims. I met David a few years ago in our networking group and have had the pleasure of working with him on several projects. I’ve attended s…
playlist_add
Jan 2, 2018
#014 - The Practical Side of Delegating
I’m sure you’re familiar with the saying, “Do what you do the best and delegate the rest.” Chris Ducker is credited for the saying. He’s a serial entrepreneur and owns a virtual assistant business in the Philippines. When it comes to virtual business management, he’s the go-to resource. I love his book called Virtual Freedom. I highly recommend any small business owner to go to Amazon and grab a copy. The book is a step-by-step guide on how to systematically build your team to help you grow your business, with the resources you can afford.
This week’s Accomplish More podcast covers the practical side of delegating. Technology has dramatically changed the climate of how we can build the team for our businesses. No matter how big or small you want your workforce, you have many more options available to fill your needs.
It’s easier said than done when it comes to building a team. There are things that hold us back. In this episode, I share why I used to be dead set agai…
playlist_add
Dec 27, 2017
#013 - Set Your Goals in Motion for the New Year
I simply can’t believe that in just a few days we will be starting a brand-new year! In today’s show we are going to talk about setting your goals in motion for a successful new year.
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." --Walt Disney
playlist_add
Dec 19, 2017
#012 - How to Let Go When Things Aren't Working
Why is it that we think we can continue to add to our pile of things to do and stress ourselves out because there is never enough time?
It's a tough reality to face. When you say "yes" to something, you must say "no" to something else. Whether you are aware of it or not, at the end of the day what you said yes to left other things undone.
It's natural for our priorities and goals to shift in our businesses and in our personal lives. As we come into a new year, many of us are reflecting on our progress from the past years and focusing on our future goals.
In this podcast episode, Sharon and I talk about time management and the importance of evaluating what to let go in order to make room for growth. We give examples of some tough decisions we are facing at the moment and how we are working through the process to achieve our goals we've set for ourselves for the coming year.
Recap:
Be Realistic With Your Time
Time is our most valuable resource. We can never get it back. We can neve…
playlist_add
Dec 13, 2017
#011 - Do You Make These 15 Mistakes When Goal Setting? Part 2
Last week, Sharon and I went through 10 of the 15 mistakes commonly made when goal setting. We didn't want to make the episode too long, so we broke it up into two episodes. Join us and see if you have ever made any of the mistakes.
We don't want to dwell on the negative because that isn't productive. But knowing the reasons why we don't accomplish a goal is important. Instead of feeling lost and frustrated, you gain a better understanding of yourself and your actions, which will better enable you to recognize if you fall into your old routine keeping you from achieving your goal.
Set your goals for next year with a fresh and new perspective.
playlist_add
Dec 6, 2017
#010 - Do You Make These Mistakes When Goal Setting?
It’s the end of the year and it’s the traditional resolution time. The added stress of the holidays and the pressing fact that the year is swiftly coming to an end gets many of us reflecting on what we’ve accomplished.
But are you frustrated and focused on what you didn’t accomplish in the year and trying to hurry to do some catch-up? Do you have any goals that you set last year that looking back you haven’t made the progress you wanted?
It happens to all of us.
I think it’s a good idea to know and understand the reasons why goals fail so that we can get over being discouraged and be on a better path when setting new goals. In this episode, Sharon and I go over the main mistakes made in setting goals.
We hope you enjoy the show. If you find the show useful and helpful, we encourage you to subscribe to the show on iTunes and let us know your thoughts. You can leave a comment or always drop us a note at podcast@scrivenersolutions.com.
playlist_add
Nov 29, 2017
#009 | How to Effectively Work With a Virtual Team
Working with a team has its challenges, but when it comes to your team being remote, there are special challenges.
We’ve had our struggles with some of our clients getting started and getting into a good groove.
In today's episode, we talk about the key things you should know when working with a virtual team. Actually, most of the things we go over apply to anyone you may add to your team whether they are remote or not.
Episode Highlights:
Have a plan
Without a plan, you waste time and money. Sure it would be nice to hire someone, snap your fingers, then everything is in place and everything is running smoothly. The reality is it doesn't happen that way. Careful planning is needed on your part for a successful relationship with any new team member.
Remember, VAs are people
When you don't see someone on a regular basis, you aren't as "connected" to them. Without finding ways to consistently talking with your virtual assistant, you may lose sight who they are as a person and…
playlist_add
Nov 22, 2017
#008 | How to Overcome the Fears of Building a Team
In order to truly accomplish more and grow your business, you must strategically plan on getting help. Teams come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and the reality is, you will need a team.
In today's podcast, we go over the main fears of building a team and some hints to overcome them.
Episode Highlights
Reason 1: No money
Most businesses starting out have more time than money and you must do everything yourself. The first step in realizing your business' growth depends on building the right team is viewing help as an investment instead of an expense. Find ways to make your money go further by delegating small projects first. An hour or two each week of delegated work makes a huge impact on your productivity. Reason 2: No trust
The perception that no one can do as good as a job as you can is the wrong rabbit hole to go into. Yes, you may hear horror stories, but start delegating tasks a little at a time. Do your homework before hiring someone. This doesn't always eliminate bad…
playlist_add
Nov 15, 2017
#007 | Could a Virtual Assistant Help Your Business?
We often get puzzled looks when we say we are virtual assistants. The buzz word of "virtual assistant" is rampant in the online business world, but not so much with traditional product or service industries. Technology has made it possible for small business owners to seriously consider virtual assistant services as they grow their company. In today's podcast, we go over what a virtual assistant is and ideas of what kinds of businesses they serve.
Show Summary
Virtual assistant definition:
A Virtual Assistant (VA) is one who aids clients remotely by doing administrative tasks in their own office, using their own equipment. Communication between VA and client is generally done by a variety of methods, such as phone, email, instant messaging, or video conference.
Why consider a VA
Whether you are growing your business or a busy executive and you find yourself either bogged down with administrative tasks or simply do not have the desire or expertise in certain administrative task…
playlist_add
Nov 8, 2017
#006 | Smart Time & Money Tracking
Undoubtedly time and money are the biggest stressors for most people. There are tons of books, blog posts, articles, and podcasts about...
* How to save money
* How to save time
* How to make more money
* How to have more time
We all have ups and downs with managing both. We are hungry for information to improve so that we have more of both.
In order to improve, you've got to track. Today's podcast is all about tracking and using tools to help you gain a better perspective of where both your time and money goes.
We as business owners can quickly get a warped sense of how much time things take to complete or where our money actually goes. We convince ourselves that we have a great sense of where we stand because it's just in our head. We have great instincts. We just know. Much of the time, we are fooling ourselves.
Try putting things down in black and white for awhile, then review the data. This is one sure way to bring into focus how you can improve in both your time and…
playlist_add
Nov 1, 2017
#005 | K.I.S.S. Your Business Plan
Undoubtedly you've heard the phrase "failure to plan, plan to fail." Sure it may be true, but who has time for it? Running a small business takes all our time and energy, the last thing we want to do is a business plan.
You may have the impression that preparing a business plan is intimidating and the only time you'd need to bother with preparing one is when you must apply for a business loan. True, banks need a formal business plan in order to consider you for a loan and often times it's a good idea to get some help to prepare the document in a thorough and professional way. The professionals in organizations like SCORE are a great resource to help you prepare such a formal document.
But today we aren't talking about a formal document. Even the smallest business needs a plan. It doesn't have to be formal. It certainly doesn't have to be long. It's simply a way to have you think about your business and become clear on your direction.
As a small business, the only person in your busi…
playlist_add
Oct 25, 2017
#004 | Schedule to Gain Productivity
To some, my calendar may look intimidating with all the color-coded blocks and very little white space. To me, I gain focus and have a better plan for my day increasing my productivity.
I truly believe that if it's not on my schedule, then it doesn't get done...whatever "it" may be.
I use a blend of both an old-fashioned paper calendar and my digital calendar to help me plan and prioritize. I think using a blend of both is beneficial and here's why.
Using a paper calendar seems to be more tangible. It can help you gain an overall picture of the big stuff. It's great for goal setting. When you write down milestone goals on a paper calendar and keep it out and handy to frequently review, it's a perfect visual to help you stay on target.
I use a monthly planner and look at the coming year and the first thing I schedule are my trips or major family/personal events. By writing them down on the calendar, the level of importance has been elevated. My mindset shifts from "maybe someday" to…
playlist_add
Oct 12, 2017
#003 - Why Planning Time Away From Your Business is Important
Learn the three main reasons why you should step away from your business to allow you to accomplish more.
playlist_add
Sep 26, 2017
#002 - Five Essentials You Need When Marketing Your Small Business
How much time do you spend marketing your small business? It may seem like a full-time job, that's for sure. When you must take care of your customers and everything else you must do to run your business, marketing tasks seem to go to the bottom of the list.
Setting up processes and visualizing how you'll be able to delegate some pieces of your marketing is key in accomplishing more. You should train yourself to think, "How will all this get accomplished," instead of "How will I accomplish everything?"
There's a slight difference in sentences, but a huge difference in mindset. In the first, "How will all this get accomplished," you open up your mind to possibilities. Sure, you may have to do the tasks yourself at first, but creating processes and thinking how you will hand it off later is quite helpful.
I believe that no matter what kind of business we have, we all must use at least five things when marketing our small businesses. You should develop a marketing strategy in all five…
playlist_add
Sep 20, 2017
001 | Don't Let the Start Stop You
It's tough being an owner of a small business. We wear many hats, don't we? Just helping our customers or clients is the tip of the iceberg. We've got much more to do, like...bookkeeping, purchasing, errands, networking, meetings, events, marketing, planning, billing...the list goes on.
Sometimes being an owner of a small business can get pretty lonely. You must be a self-motivator and it's up to you to hold everything together. Perhaps you feel like your friends and family don't quite understand what you're going through. It can be very overwhelming!
In this episode, I share my story of how I delayed starting my business and what that experience has taught me.
playlist_add
Sep 13, 2017
000 | Intro Episode
Welcome to the Accomplish More podcast created specifically for the small business owner who doesn't think small. Hosted by Gayla Scrivener.
Tune in each week for practical ideas, hints, tips, and tricks to help you grow your small business where you can leverage your time and accomplish more.
I encourage you to contact me with questions by emailing podcast@scrivenersolutions.com.
Thanks for listening. Enjoy the show!
playlist_add