Tag: branding

  • What To Expect From A Signature Style Audit

    What To Expect From A Signature Style Audit

    Why You Need A Signature Style Audit

    Are you overwhelmed by social media and tend to overthink what you post? If you’ve ever felt like your social media presence is a scattered mess of random fonts, mismatched colors, and inconsistent content types then a Signature Style Audit might be exactly what you need.

    Your online presence should immediately signal to potential clients: this is who I am, this is what I do, and here’s why you need to follow me.

    So, what actually happens in a Signature Style Audit? And more importantly, what can you expect if you actually do the work and implement the recommendations? Let’s break it down.

    What Goes Into a Signature Style Audit?

    A Signature Style Audit is a deep dive into your brand’s social media presence to evaluate cohesive messaging and strategies.

    Client Intake & Goal Setting

    • The client provides the platform they want audited.
    • Specific social media goals are discussed, whether it’s increased engagement, brand recognition, or conversions.

    Visual Content Analysis

    • I compile a variety of visuals used for posts over the past year.
    • Each image is analyzed for branding consistency, color usage, font selection, and overall aesthetic.
    • Patterns and inconsistencies are identified, and we put together a recommendation for a more cohesive style.

    Caption & Messaging Review

    • We select an assortment of captions from the last year.
    • The analysis looks at tone, engagement levels, clarity, and consistency in brand messaging.
    • Opportunities for engagement are identified, such as CTAs (calls-to-action) and audience engagement techniques.

    Strategy Formulation

    • Based on our findings, we create a refined content strategy.
    • This strategy still reflects the client’s unique Signature Style but in a more polished and focused way.
    • Recommendations are made for improving bio and profile optimization, content themes, and interactive storytelling.

    Key Areas of Focus in a Signature Style Audit

    1. Visual Consistency

    • Do you have a visual element?
    • Do your posts have a recognizable look?
    • Are your colors, fonts, and graphics consistent?
    • Does your feed feel polished, or is it a patchwork of different styles?

    Example from Singsthings: The review found that while the content itself was valuable, the visual branding across multiple projects lacked cohesion. A new color palette was recommended, assigning different primary colors to each brand while maintaining an overall harmony.

    Example from The Grief Curator: Michelle has a warming and welcoming way about her, and often welcomes people into the space she is holding for them. We recomended she grab a teapot to use as her visual element, a brief visual cue that is instantly recognizable.

    2. Content Strategy & Engagement

    • Are you speaking directly to your audience’s needs?
    • Do you hook your audience with the first line?
    • Are you posting a mix of entertaining, educational, personal, and promotional content?
    • Are your CTAs strong enough?

    Example from The Grief Curator: The content was deeply moving and relatable but relied too heavily on quotes. By mixing in more personal narratives and direct engagement prompts, the audience could connect on a deeper level and feel more inclined to interact.

    Example from Rocki: While Rocki had strong calls to action and engaging captions, her content needed more storytelling and case studies to build deeper connections with her audience of aspiring entrepreneurs.

    3. Messaging & Voice

    • Does your content have a consistent brand tone?
    • Are you balancing entertaining, promotional, and personal storytelling?
    • Do your captions invite conversation?

    Example from Singsthings: While the captions had a warm, conversational tone, they lacked strong calls to action. The recommendation was to add engagement prompts (e.g., “What’s your biggest struggle with composing?”) to increase interaction and make content more shareable.

    : Rocki’s captions were conversational and engaging, but there was an opportunity to add more relatability and storytelling, especially focusing on challenges and successes that would resonate with working moms trying to grow a business.

    4. Bio & Profile Optimization

    • Is your bio clear and easy to understand?
    • Do you have highlights that make sense?
    • Does someone new to your page immediately understand what you offer?

    Example from The Grief Curator: The bio and profile e lements needed refining to make the brand’s mission clearer. A few strategic tweaks (like emphasizing key offerings and community-building elements) helped sharpen the brand’s first impression.

    Implementing the Audit Recommendations?

    Now, here’s the exciting part, what can happen if you follow through with the Signature Style Plan? Let’s talk potential results.

    1. Increased Brand Recognition

    When your audience can immediately recognize your content as they scroll, they’re more likely to engage. Implementing a signature color palette, font style, and content structure ensures you stand out in a crowded feed.

    Real-World Impact: For Singsthings, applying a consistent color strategy and content structure across different projects will help unify the brand and reduce confusion for followers.

    Real-World Impact: For Rocki, refining her visual consistency and brand identity allows her content to become even more recognizable, reinforcing her expertise in Instagram marketing.

    2. Higher Engagement & Community Growth

    IYour content needs to be built for engagement, optimized for your ideal customers. But when you incorporate interactive elements—clear CTAs, questions, and interactive stories—your audience starts participating.

    Real-World Impact: The Grief Curator is adding more personal storytelling and discussion prompts instead of relying solely on quotes hoping to encourage others to be active in the comments, sharing their own experiences.

    3. More Conversions & Business Growth

    A refined Signature Style isn’t just about looking good it’s about making sure your content leads people to take action. Whether booking a session, signing up for a workshop, or engaging in your services, clarity in your content drives results.

    Real-World Impact:Victoria of Canterbury Baking School saw thousands of dollars in bookings directly off of Instagram immediately following her audit, she made simple changes in her content that resulted in real life impact for her business.

    Final Thoughts

    A Signature Style Audit isn’t just about making your feed pretty. It’s about refining your brand presence so it works for you, attracting your ideal audience, building trust, and turning engagement into real business growth.

    If you’ve been struggling with feeling invisible online or unsure how to create a cohesive brand presence, it might be time for your own Signature Style Audit. Because when you show up with confidence and clarity, your audience takes notice.

    Want to book a Signature Style Audit? Click here!

  • Blending In Doesn’t Get You Booked

    Blending In Doesn’t Get You Booked

    Why Blending In Won’t Get You Booked: The Case for a Signature Style

    Blending in is the quickest way to become invisible online. And yet, every day I see coaches—amazing, talented, totally badass coaches—scrolling Instagram, saving cute reels, and pinning content ideas on Pinterest. Fast forward a few hours, and they’re staring at their screens, paralyzed, thinking, What the heck should I post?

    Spoiler alert: what you see everyone else doing isn’t working for them either. So, if you’re playing the same game, how will your dream clients ever find you? The truth is, it’s not about copying trends or recreating someone else’s vibe. The key to getting noticed, getting followed, and getting booked is having a signature style that makes you unforgettable. Pair that with a strong content strategy, and you’re unstoppable.

    What Is a Signature Style, and Why Do You Need One?

    Think of your signature style as your online fingerprint—the unique blend of your look, tone, and personality that makes your content instantly recognizable. It’s like a visual handshake, introducing you to potential clients before you’ve even said a word.

    Without it? You’re just another coach in the endless scroll. With it? You’re the coach who makes people pause and think, “Who is she, and how can I work with her?”

    Your signature style does the heavy lifting for you. It builds trust, sets you apart, and creates consistency. In short: it’s the magic ingredient your content has been missing.

    Why Blending In Isn’t Working (and Never Will)

    Let’s talk about that urge to fit in. I get it—standing out can feel scary. Your brain whispers, Stick to the crowd. Stay safe. Don’t make waves. But here’s your permission slip (and my heartfelt promise): You’re not just going to be okay—you’re going to thrive.

    The truth? Blending in doesn’t keep you safe; it keeps you small. When your content looks like everyone else’s, it fades into the background, and your dream clients will scroll right past. Generic posts don’t connect on a human level. They don’t tell your story. They don’t make anyone feel anything.

    And here’s the kicker: those competitors you think are crushing it? They’re not necessarily smarter, more experienced, or better coaches than you. They’ve just learned to own their space online. They’ve got their signature style nailed down—and it’s time for you to do the same.

    How a Signature Style Helps You Stand Out

    A signature style isn’t just about looking good—it’s about creating a lasting impression. Here’s what it can do for you:

    1. You Become One of a Kind

    When you stop following the crowd and start showing up as you, you become impossible to replicate. Your style becomes your superpower. No one else can do it quite like you.

    2. It Builds Trust

    People are drawn to consistency. When your audience knows what to expect from your posts—visually, emotionally, and energetically—they start to trust you. And trust? That’s the foundation of any great coaching relationship.

    3. It Stops the Scroll

    A cohesive, eye-catching look grabs attention. When your posts pop up, your dream clients will recognize your “vibe” and pause to see what you have to say. That pause is the first step to building a connection.

    4. It Simplifies Your Life

    Imagine never having to wonder which font to use, which colors match, or whether a trend fits your brand. Your signature style becomes your creative North Star, guiding every decision and saving you hours of frustration.

    Ready to Create Your Signature Style?

    The good news? You don’t need to reinvent yourself to create a signature style. In fact, your best style will always reflect who you already are and what makes you magnetic.

    Here’s how to get started:

    1. Find Your Visual Element

    What’s the one thing that makes your content instantly recognizable? Maybe it’s a color palette, a bold font, or a specific type of photo. Think of it as your content’s signature accessory—it should make people think of you the moment they see it.

    2. Decide on the Mood

    How do you want your audience to feel when they see your posts? Energized? Inspired? Calm and reflective? This emotional vibe will shape everything from your captions to your imagery.

    3. Infuse Your Personality

    What quirks, passions, or interests can you weave into your content? Whether it’s your love of morning lattes, personal development podcasts, or a killer playlist, these touches make your content more you—and way more relatable.

    Final Thoughts

    Here’s the bottom line: your dream clients are out there, scrolling right now. The question is, will they find you—and recognize you as the coach they’ve been searching for?

    A signature style ensures the answer is a resounding YES.

    So stop blending in. Start showing up as the powerhouse coach you already are. Once you nail your signature style, you’ll look back and wonder why you ever tried to fit in.

    You’ve got this. And if you need a little help, well, that’s why I’m here. Let’s make you unforgettable.

  • Signature Style Dos and Don’ts

    Signature Style Dos and Don’ts

    Developing your signature style is one of the most important steps in building a recognizable and successful brand. But let’s face it, it can also be tricky. To help you navigate this process, let’s break down some dos and don’ts of creating your signature style—and why they matter.

    Lets Talk About The DOs

    DO: Know Who You Serve

    Understanding your audience is foundational. Without clarity on who you’re speaking to, your content will be vague and fail to connect. Knowing your ideal client’s pain points, desires, and values helps you create messaging that resonates deeply.

    DO: Research the Problem They Face

    The better you understand the struggles of your ideal audience, the easier it becomes to craft a style and message that positions you as the go-to solution. Dive into market research, listen to your audience’s frustrations, and speak directly to those challenges

    DO: Have a Unique Solution

    Your signature style isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about how you deliver value. Offer solutions that are fresh, actionable, and tailored to your audience. Your unique solution becomes the cornerstone of your brand’s identity.

    DO: Measure Performance

    You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Track metrics like engagement, conversions, and audience growth to understand what’s working and what’s not. Let the data guide your decisions.

    DO: Add Your Spin to Everything

    Your personality and perspective are your superpowers. Infuse them into your content, messaging, and visuals. This is what makes your brand truly unique and magnetic.

    DO: Gather Feedback

    Your audience’s insights are invaluable. Pay attention to their comments, DMs, and engagement patterns. Ask for feedback directly and use it to refine your approach.

    Now Let’s Review Some of the Don’ts

    DON’T: Have the Same POV as Others

    Copy-pasting what everyone else in your industry is saying is a fast track to blending in. Instead, find your unique perspective. What’s your take on industry trends? What can you say that no one else is saying?.

    DON’T: Accept the Status Quo

    Signature Style is all about doing things your own damn way. The status quo is boring. Don’t be afraid to challenge it. People are drawn to thought leaders and innovators, not to those who play it safe. Shake things up and stand out!

    DON’T: Forget to Solve the Problem

    If your style is all flash and no substance, you’ll lose trust. A beautiful Instagram feed or a catchy tagline means nothing if you’re not solving your audience’s real problems. Make sure you are answering questions in your content, always prioritize value.

    DON’T: Try to Serve Everyone

    When you try to appeal to everyone, you end up connecting with no one. Niche down. Focus on serving a specific group of people who align with your expertise and values.

    DON’T: Expect It to Be Easy

    Developing a signature style takes time, experimentation, and consistency. There’s no overnight success here. Embrace the process and stay committed.

    DON’T: Ignore All Trends

    While you shouldn’t blindly follow every trend, staying aware of what’s popular can inspire fresh ideas and keep your content relevant. The key is to adapt trends in a way that aligns with your style and message.

    Your Signature Style Success

    By following these dos and avoiding the don’ts, you’ll not only craft a signature style that’s visually compelling but also deeply aligned with your audience and your mission. Ready to get started? Let’s do this!

  • Vulnerability: The Superpower You’re Probably Avoiding

    Vulnerability: The Superpower You’re Probably Avoiding

    Is Vulnerability What Is Missing from Your Signature Style

    Let’s have a little heart-to-heart, shall we? I want to talk about something that might make you cringe a bit: vulnerability.

    You’ve built your brand on expertise, confidence, and that polished, professional vibe. But that vibe isn’t you. Letting your guard down a little won’t ruin your credibility. It might just be the missing piece that takes your brand to the next level.

    What Is Vulnerability, Really?

    Let’s clear something up first. Vulnerability doesn’t mean turning your social media feed into a dramatic soap opera or some kind of reality TV audition. (Nobody’s got time for that, and it won’t help you book more clients.)

    Vulnerability is about owning your experiences—the highs, the “did I just screw that up?” moments, and everything in between. It’s about reminding your audience that behind the polished posts and wins, you’re human. And trust me, that humanity? It’s your secret weapon. Remember this above all else, people want to do business with people!

    Why Your Audience Craves It

    Here’s the deal: Your audience isn’t looking for a flawless guru who seems untouchable. They’re looking for someone who gets it. Someone who has stumbled, gotten back up, and kept going.

    It’s not the fall they care about—it’s the recovery.

    When you let your real self shine through, you give your audience permission to connect with a real person. They’ll feel seen, connected, and understood. That’s where trust is born. Why is trust so important? Because it’s the foundation of communities—and successful businesses.

    How to Bring More Realness to Your Content

    s ditch the robotic expert act (we all know it’s not real anyway). Instead, start weaving personal stories into your content.

    Here are some ideas to get you started:

    • Share how you bombed your first launch (and what you learned).
    • Talk about that one client call where you felt like a total fraud.
    • Admit that the IG algorithm almost broke your spirit last week.

    These moments aren’t weaknesses. They’re opportunities to connect. Relatability breeds trust, and trust? That’s where the magic—and the sales—happen.

    5 Simple Ways to Practice Vulnerability

    Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide:

    1. Journal Your Truths:
      Grab a notebook and jot down your wins, losses, and those messy “aha” moments. Getting comfortable with your story is the first step to sharing it with others.
    2. Take People Behind the Scenes:
      Wrestling with a big decision? Share it. Struggling with imposter syndrome? Talk about it. Real-life honesty resonates with people far more than “Look how perfect my life is” ever will.
    3. Find Your Tribe:
      Surround yourself with other entrepreneurs who get it. Sharing war stories—failed launches, surprising wins—can keep you inspired and grounded.
    4. Open Yourself to Feedback:
      Constructive criticism can sting, but it helps you refine your voice and connect more deeply with your ideal clients.
    5. Work with a Coach:
      Seriously, this is a non-negotiable. You don’t know what you don’t know, and a great coach will help you uncover blind spots and level up faster. (And no, this isn’t just a plug for you to hire me—find a coach who clicks with you!)

    Vulnerability: Your Leadership Edge

    Here’s the bottom line: Vulnerability doesn’t make you less of a leader—it makes you more of one. It’s your not-so-secret superpower.

    When you show up as your unfiltered, real self, you inspire trust, connection, and action.

    So, step into the arena. Share your quirks, your lessons, and yes, even your scars. The real, human you is exactly what your audience has been waiting for.

    And trust me, they’ll thank you for it.


    Now it’s your turn—what’s one small way you can show up as your authentic self this week? Drop a comment or send me a message. Let’s keep the conversation going.

  • Social Listening 101: The Basics of Eavesdropping

    Social Listening 101: The Basics of Eavesdropping

    What Is Social Listening, and Why Should You Care?

    Let’s talk about social listening and how it can totally change the game for your coaching or service-based biz. Imagine, next Tuesday you’re hanging out in a bustling coffee shop, casually eavesdropping on your dream clients chatting about their biggest struggles and wildest goals. That’s basically social listening—in a totally legal, non-creepy way. It’s about tuning in to online chatter in your industry so you can serve up exactly what your audience needs, all while defining a stand-out Signature Style that’s all you.

    Social listening is paying attention to what people say online about your niche, your competitors, and the solutions they wish existed. It’s not just a fancy marketing buzzword—it’s your secret weapon to truly understand your audience, stand out in a crowded market, and develop that “it factor” that makes people think, “Heck yes, I want to hire you!”

    Why Social Listening is a Big Freakin’ Deal

    If you’re a life coach, business consultant, or wellness guru, you already know the competition is pretty fierce. But here’s the deal: social listening keeps your finger on the pulse of what your audience wants right now. When you know what your people crave, you can:

    • Understand their struggles and goals. (Instant empathy points!)
    • Pinpoint content and program ideas they’ll go nuts for.
    • Spot gaps in the market where you can swoop in like a superhero.

    Think of it like walking into a room where everyone’s wearing nametags that say, “Here’s my problem—please fix it!” You’ll know exactly how to position your coaching or services to stand out.

    Unlocking Your Audience’s Deepest Desires

    Your audience is broadcasting their hopes, fears, and goals all over the internet, whether they realize it or not. It could be a Reddit thread, a Facebook group, or an Instagram story rant. That’s where you come in with your social listening goggles on:

    • If you’re a career coach, people might be griping about imposter syndrome or confusion around midlife career pivots.
    • If you’re in health and wellness, you’ll see a ton of talk around quick workouts, meal prep hacks, or body positivity.
    • If you are a realtor, you might see a ton of talk about current interest rates or how its hard to get into your first home.

    This intel is your roadmap to creating services and content that solve issues you audience is actually facing. It’s also how you figure out the vibe of your Signature Style. Are you the gentle guide or the tough-love motivator? Align your vibe with the audiences words and land on a Signature Style that is the perfect mix.

    Mind the Gaps, Friend

    Sometimes the biggest goldmine isn’t in what people say—they might also be silently screaming about what’s missing. Scan your competitors:

    • Are they offering cookie-cutter programs that feel meh? Most probably are (check reviews).
    • Are they all about high-pressure sales tactics while your people crave more empathy and realness?

    By noticing what’s not being offered—or what’s being offered badly—you can swoop in and create something better. That’s how you become the go-to expert.

    Discover What Makes You You

    Spoiler alert: Not everyone will vibe with your brand of magic—and that’s a good thing. Social listening helps you see what your fans love most about you. Maybe they rave about your humor, your storytelling skills, or that you give the most straightforward advice this side of the internet. Embrace that unique flair and double down on it as you begin to formalize your Signature Style

    Ready, Set, Listen: Practical Tips to Get Started

    Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves. Here are some quick wins for dipping your toes into social listening:

    • Hang Out Where Your Audience Does: If you’re a business coach, LinkedIn might be your spot. If you’re in fitness, Instagram hashtags like #FitnessJourney or Facebook communities could be gold. Go where the conversations (and rants) are happening.
    • Track Relevant Keywords and Phrases: Tools can help you monitor phrases like:
      • “Switch careers at 40”
      • “Struggling to grow my biz”
      • “Healthy meal prep on a budget”

    This is how you spot exactly what people need help with. And yes, it’s kind of like mind-reading.

    • Engage, Don’t Just Lurk: If someone’s asking for advice in a group, jump in! Share a quick tip or free resource. Not only does this help them, but it also positions you as the obvious expert.
    • Channel Feedback into “Level-Up” Mode: Listen to people’s beef with other programs and fill in the blanks. If everyone’s yelling, “This is too generic!,” maybe your sweet spot is a more customized coaching approach.

      Social Listening + Your Marketing Strategy = Magic

      Social Listening sn’t just for creeping on your competitors—it’s a treasure chest for your entire marketing plan.

      • Endless Content Ideas: The questions and concerns you uncover are basically outlines for your next blog post, YouTube video, or IG Reel. If your audience says, “I don’t know how to set boundaries at work,” then boom! you’ve got content gold.
      • Speak Their Language: People say “I’m stuck” or “I’m so overwhelmed”? Mirror that language in your messaging. It’s a subtle trick that makes them think, “This person totally gets me.”
      • Be Proactive and Show You Care: Hop on trends or address topics your audience is buzzing about. Whether you’re sharing a tip for the new season or addressing a big headline in your industry, it signals that you’re tuned in and ready to serve.

        Must-Have Tools for Social Listening

        Don’t worry; you don’t have to do this manually (ain’t nobody got time for that). Check out:

        • Google Alerts: Simple, free, and gets the job done.
        • Hootsuite: Great for tracking social mentions and hashtags across multiple platforms.
        • BuzzSumo: Perfect for spotting trending topics in your niche and seeing who’s talking about them.
        • Brand24: More advanced, but offers real-time data and in-depth analysis.
        • Sprout Social: Provides robust social listening features plus easy-to-read analytics for multiple platforms.

        Pick your favorite or mix and match to fit your budget and needs.

        How Social Listening Shapes Your Signature Style

        So, how does eavesdropping turn into a killer personal brand?

        • Highlight Your Strengths: Maybe your audience loves how you turn complicated concepts into witty, relatable analogies. Lean into that. If social listening says they need less fluff and more real talk, own it. Give the people what they want, in the way only you can.
        • Offer Solutions Only You Can Provide: Analyze the market, see what’s missing, and combine that with what you do best. That’s how your services become one-of-a-kind. If your competition is pushing AI-generated coaching prompts (yawn) and you prefer real, in-depth strategy sessions, that’s your selling point—shout it from the rooftops!
        • Build a Brand They’ll Fall in Love With: Your brand voice, your visuals, your signature style—these come together to give your audience a sense of what you’re about. If you find your clients crave honesty, empathy, or a sprinkle of humor, then infuse that vibe into everything you do—from your emails to your website copy, of course provided that it all feels aligned to you.

          A Real-Life Example: My 2024 Pivot

          Here’s a quick story: in late 2023, I noticed everyone was obsessing over AI prompts and freaking out about Reels fading in popularity. But when I did some in-depth listening, I realized the big pain point hadn’t changed: people still felt invisible in an overcrowded market. They wanted to stand out and define their unique vibe—AI or no AI.

          Suddenly, my focus on Signature Style became the hot topic. While everyone else was chasing the AI bandwagon, I leaned hard into helping people show up authentically and develop a unique brand presence. And guess what? We are on that rollercoaster right now, and it feels like we are headed in the right direction.

          Wrap-Up: Listen, Then Conquer

          So, friend, if you’ve ever thought social listening was just a fluffy term, think again. It’s the golden ticket to understanding what your audience really needs, defining a style that’s unmistakably you, and driving your business forward like a boss. Your next move? Start paying attention. Pick a tool, listen in on the chatter, and turn that intel into top-notch services and content.

          Trust me, once you discover the power of social listening, you’ll wonder how you ever hustled without it. Your Signature Style—and your dream clients—are waiting!

          You’ve got this. Now go forth and eavesdrop your way to coaching greatness.

        1. Pairing Clarity with Your Signature Style

          Pairing Clarity with Your Signature Style

          From Foggy to Focused: How Clarity and a Signature Content Style Can Transform Your Coaching Biz

          Ever feel like you’re shouting into the void on social media? You’re posting (sometimes), sharing tips (sporadically), and trying to be “you” online. But somehow, your content feels…meh. It’s not landing, it’s not clicking, and worst of all, it’s not bringing in clients. Let me tell you, girl, you’re not alone.

          But let’s be honest here: if you, yourself, lack clarity about what you offer and how you help people, your audience won’t stick around. And without a signature content style to back up that clarity? You’re just another drop in the ocean of Instagram posts and TikTok trends.

          So, are you ready to fix that sh!t? 


          Step 1: Understand Who You Are and What Makes You Unique

          You need to understand yourself before you can get clear on your message. What sets you apart? Why should someone hire you over anyone else? This isn’t about bragging; it’s about owning your brilliance. Show up as yourself, be yourself, and stick to it.

          • Your Story: What’s your journey? Did you leave a soul-sucking corporate job to follow your passion? Reinvent yourself after a big life change? Share those moments that shaped you—they’re what make you relatable and memorable.
          • Your Skills: What unique expertise or perspective do you bring? Maybe you’re the queen of simplifying complex strategies or a whiz at creating connections online. Whatever it is, highlight it.
          • Your Why: Why are you doing this work? What drives you? Whether it’s empowering other women to succeed or creating financial freedom for your family, your audience wants to feel that passion.

          When you’re clear on what makes you, that energy will naturally flow into your message and content.


          Step 2: Get Clear on Your Message

          Before we touch your visuals, tone, and personality, let’s start with the basics. If your message isn’t clear, your content won’t convert. For real, that is the problem many of you have.

          • Who Do You Help? Be specific. Are you working with second-act women coaches juggling business and life transitions? Call them out. The more tailored your message, the more your dream clients will feel seen.
          • What Do You Do? Think results, not processes. Instead of saying, “I help you with Instagram,” say, “I help you develop a cohesive style that gets you noticed so you can book dream clients.”
          • Why Does It Matter? Go beyond the surface. Your audience has a problem they need to solve; are you the person to solve it? Are you helping your clients feel confident? Seen? Empowered to grow their business? Highlight that.

          Okay, you have what makes you unique and how you will speak to your audience, so what is next?


          Step 3: Define Your Transformation and Make It Visual

          Your audience doesn’t care about the how—they care about the win. Show them the transformation you provide through your content.

          • Tell Stories: Use client wins, before-and-after scenarios, or your journey to illustrate the results you deliver. For example, this pat weekend I got an Instagram message from a client saying… you said to just post it and here is what happened when I posted it! 
          • Showcase Results: Carousels, reels, or testimonials are great for this. Bonus points if you pair these with the story and transformation that is behind the reviews.
          • Signature Style Inspo: Do you teach about your topic in a certaIn way or have a process that you follow with each client, this is a good thing to highlight and include as part of your Signature Style as you gain clarity around your offers. 

          Step 4: Strip Your Content Down

          Your signature content style starts with clarity but thrives on consistency. The easiest way to stay consistent? Creating and living by your content pillars. These are the themes that guide everything you post. To make this concept even clearer, I included the infographic you see here.

          Your pillars are a broad theme that ties back to your niche. Pillars are very specific to your Signature Style. You should only have a few pillars and repeat them.

          Your pillars help focus your audience on the things that you specialize in. Let’s say you’re helping second-act coaches grow their online presence. Your pillars might look like this:

          • How your life journey leads you to coach (includes the ups and downs of the journey, keeping it real).
          • The best way to simplify your social media strategies so you can focus on your coaching.
          • The biggest mistakes I made as a coach, that you should not make!


          Step 5: Nail Your Signature Content Style

          This is where clarity meets aesthetics. Your signature style is what makes people stop mid-scroll and say, “Oh, that’s her.” Here’s how to create yours:

          • Identify Your Visual Cue: A visual cue is precisely what it sounds like it is an item that shows up in a majority of your posts, is recognizable, and will subconsciously tell your audience member to stop mid-scroll 
          • Consistency Is Key: Whether it’s your captions, graphics, or tone, keep it consistent, but don’t allow your brand to get lost in the Canva template. Remember you want your content to make your audience feel the same across the board, but that DOES NOT mean it must be the SAME! 
          • Alignment: Make sure that your Signature Style aligns with the type of content you want to create, as well as with your brand; if something is misaligned, you may feel like something is off in the pit of your stomach or may begin to play out in other ways. 

          Step 6: Test, Refine, Repeat

          Here’s a secret: no one gets their message and style perfect on the first try. The key is to test what resonates with your audience and refine as you go.

          • Pay Attention to Engagement: Which posts get saved, shared, or spark DMs? Those are your winners.
          • Ask for Feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask your audience what they want more of. They’ll tell you.
          • Evolve With Intention: Your signature style should grow with you. If something feels off, tweak it until it feels right.

          The Magic of Clarity and Style

          When you combine a clear message with a signature content style, magic happens. Your audience will know what you do and feel connected to you and your brand. And that’s when the inquiries, bookings, and dream clients start rolling in.

          It’s not just about looking good online (though let’s be real, we all love a cohesive feed). It’s about showing up with confidence, clarity, and a style that makes your dream clients think, “She gets me.”

          So, ready to stop shouting into the void and start building a presence that works? 

        2. Use Signature Brand Colors That Attracts Dream Clients

          Use Signature Brand Colors That Attracts Dream Clients

          Let’s chat! If your Signature Style color palette is giving “kindergarten craft project” vibes, it’s time to make some strategic changes. Colors aren’t just pretty window dressing. They’re like brand ambassadors for your coaching business, greeting potential clients before you’ve even said “Welcome!”

          Why Your Brand Colors Matter More Than You Think

          In the online coaching world, your color choices set the stage for everything else—your authority, your vibe, and how memorable you are. The right shades can grab attention, evoke emotion, and drive action. The wrong ones? Well, let’s just say your dream clients might scroll right on by.

          Before you go on a color-picker spree, let’s explore the power behind each hue and how you can blend them into a cohesive, recognizable Signature Style. Ready? Let’s dive in.

          The Colorful Cast of Characters for Your Signature Style

          Red: The Bold Power Player
          Keywords: Leadership, Authority, Energy

          Red is that friend who commands the room with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. It’s ideal if your coaching style is all about action and urgency—think powerful call-to-action buttons or highlighting key offers. Just use it judiciously: too much red can feel like a pushy salesperson rather than an inspiring leader

          Orange: The Creative Catalyst
          Keywords: Innovation, Confidence, Enthusiasm

          Got a million out-of-the-box ideas? Orange is your jam. It’s energetic and encouraging, helping you break free from the same-old. Perfect for coaches who nudge clients toward confidence and fresh thinking. But don’t paint the whole brand orange—it can quickly go from “inspired” to “over-the-top carnival.

          Yellow: The Motivational Spark
          Keywords: Optimism, Clarity, Positivity


          If you’re all about mindset shifts and sunny outlooks, yellow brings the happy vibes. It’s fantastic for highlighting key insights or guiding clients toward breakthroughs. Just keep it subtle—too much bright yellow can feel like staring at the sun without shades

          Green: The Wellness Whisperer
          Keywords: Growth, Balance, Prosperity

          Green is your go-to if you’re a wellness or life balance coach. It conveys growth, harmony, and a sense of calm prosperity. Just remember, you’re not growing a jungle—mix in neutrals to keep your brand looking fresh and modern, not mossy.

          Blue: The Trustworthy Ally
          Keywords: Trust, Communication, Reliability

          Blue is like your dependable BFF who’s always got your back. It’s perfect if you specialize in confidence-building, communication skills, or long-term transformations. Opt for lighter shades to keep things approachable rather than overly corporate.

          Purple: The Luxe Guru
          Keywords: Wisdom, Royalty, Spiritual Insight

          Feel like a thought leader? Purple communicates luxury, depth, and a higher level of insight. If your coaching involves personal mastery or deep transformation, purple sets the tone. Just pair it with neutrals so your brand doesn’t come off as overly regal or out-of-reach.

          Pink: The Transformative Trailblazer
          Keywords: Balance, Imagination, Playfulness

          Pink is both soft and strong, making it great for those who combine nurturing with powerful results. If you’re about helping clients embrace change while having fun, pink could be your calling card. Let it soften your edges without losing your authority.

          Brown: The Authentic Advisor
          Keywords: Earthy, Realistic, Comforting

          Brown says, “I’m grounded, I’m real, and I’m here to help.” It’s perfect if you want to create a warm, approachable environment that feels genuine. Just add lighter accents so you don’t end up looking like a mud mask.

          Black: The Elegant Authority
          Keywords: Sophistication, Power, Mystery

          Black exudes confidence, luxury, and a certain “I mean business” energy. If you’re targeting high-end clients or offering premium services, black sets the mood. A little goes a long way—too much can feel heavy, so break it up with softer hues.

          Gray: The Chic Professional
          Keywords: Neutral, Contemporary, Sophisticated

          Gray is subtle sophistication. It’s perfect if you want a sleek, modern feel that calms the eye. Just remember, too much gray can veer into dull territory—pair it with accent colors or textures for depth.

          White: The Clean Slate
          Keywords: Simplicity, Clarity, Freshness

          White is a blank canvas that screams “no fluff.” It’s ideal if you’re cutting through the noise and focusing on your core message. Use it as a base, then layer in colors that highlight your content and calls-to-action.

          Pro Tips for Building Your Brand’s Signature Color Palette

          Keep It Consistent
          Your Signature Style colors should show up everywhere—your website, social media posts, downloadable guides, and even your email templates. Consistency isn’t dull; it’s what makes your brand instantly recognizable in a crowded online space.

          Know Your Audience
          Are your ideal clients corporate go-getters or soulful creatives? Tailor your palette to vibe with your audience’s taste. For example, health and wellness coaches might lean toward green and white for a fresh, balanced feel. Business strategists might pair blue and black for a trustworthy, authoritative edge.

          Reflect Your Values
          Choosing your primary colors and accent colors should be more than a “that’s pretty” decision. Think about what your brand stands for. Are you about transformation, trust, innovation, or clarity? Let your palette reflect those values in every shade.

          Why Your Signature Colors Matter for SEO and Brand Visibility

          Still wondering how all this color talk ties into SEO? Here’s the kicker:

          • Increased Engagement: On-brand visuals encourage users to stay on your page longer, reducing bounce rates and signaling to search engines that your site is valuable.
          • Brand Recognition: A consistent color scheme across social media and your website makes you easier to remember. This can lead to more direct searches of your name, which boosts your SEO relevance.
          • Improved User Experience: A cohesive color palette helps users navigate your site smoothly. When visitors find what they need easily, they’re more likely to share your content—hello, backlinks and social signals that improve your search rankings!

          Final Thoughts: Paint Your Coaching Future with Confidence

          At the end of the day, color choices are a powerful element of your brand’s signature style. They’re more than a decorative flourish; they’re a strategic tool to connect with the right audience and establish instant credibility.

          So go ahead—pick the colors that resonate with your brand’s soul. When you blend these hues into your website, marketing materials, and social media channels, you’re telling your potential clients, “I know who I am, and I’m here to help you transform.”

          Your palette is waiting. Choose wisely, have fun, and watch as your colorful brand presence makes the ultimate first impression—one that’s impossible to ignore.


        3. I’m A Sewist: A Spin on Signature Style

          I’m A Sewist: A Spin on Signature Style

          Hey there, I am so ready to spill some serious tea on making trends work for you… while still being you.

          Today, I want to show you the power of leveraging a hot trend in a way that fits your vibe—AKA your Signature Style—and how it can send your reach skyrocketing. Let’s talk about one of my members, Lisa Woolfork (founder of @blackwomenstitch) and her massive success with her “I Am A Sewist” reel series.

          The Backstory

          Lisa started this series right before the holidays in 2023. She pinged me in a private Clubhouse room, asking whether she should keep the reels going or let it be a one-and-done. I took a look, and my advice was simple: Run with it, And run she did!

          Here’s a snapshot of her numbers (not a complete list):

          • 25.8K
          • 212K
          • 44K
          • 1.2 Million
          • 43.2K

          And so on, for a total of approximately 2.5 million views! Cue the confetti. 

          Oh, and did I mention her follower count has doubled since December? Yeah, that’s what nailing your Signature Style can do.

          Lisa’s Signature Style in Action

          • Playful Yet Specific Tone: Lisa knows how to deliver her message in a fun, relatable way while still being super clear about what she’s doing.
          • Informative & Entertaining Reels: She seamlessly blends teaching moments with humor.
          • Signature Clothing (She Makes Her Own Clothes!): She shows up in her reels wearing her creations—talk about a personal brand.
          • No Fear: She’s not afraid to “go there,” including undergarments. Because hey, if you sew it, you should show it!

          Lisa’s Own Lessons Learned

          1. Listen to Jonathan (that’s me—and she is so right).
          2. Do What Feels Right to YOU. People smell ick from a mile away.
          3. Batch Record & Schedule Ahead. Consistency for the win.
          4. Reply to Comments (Use iPhone text shortcuts to speed things up).

          What We Can All Learn from Lisa’s Success

          1. Step Outside Your Comfort Zone. If the trend works for your niche, take a risk!
          2. Stay Connected to the Topic. Just because something is trending doesn’t mean it’s right for you.
          3. It Only Takes One Video. One reel can seriously catapult your visibility.
          4. Make a Trend Your Own. Trends are tools, not rules—bend them to fit your personal style.
          5. If It Works, Repeat. Rinse, repeat, and watch your reach keep climbing.
          6. Use Your Signature Style Every Time. Know how you want to show up online so your content is instantly recognizable.

          Why Signature Style Matters

          Your Signature Style is your calling card on social media. It’s not just about pretty fonts or perfect color palettes; it’s about showing up as a real human your audience can connect with. And that authentic spark? That’s what resonates with people—every. Single. Time.

          Ready to Develop Your Signature Style?

          Ever feel like you’re the best-kept secret in your niche? Or maybe you’re just kinda sick of playing small. If you’re ready to unlock your potential and dominate social media the authentic way, let’s talk about my Signature Membership.

          What You Get Each Month:

          • A fresh report packed with content ideas, trending audios, and proven strategies to ignite your growth.
          • Two monthly “Power Hours” for live Q&A and on-the-spot coaching.
          • Hot Seat Coaching Sessions for one or two members each month. That’s personalized support to crush whatever’s holding you back.

          This membership is about showing up differently and finally being seen. Imagine having the blueprint for creating content that slays on social media—and the confidence to share it unapologetically.

          Let’s Do This

          Ready to step into the spotlight? Don’t wait until next month or next year. Click here to learn more about the Signature Membership and start your journey to social media success.

          No more hiding. No more best-kept-secret syndrome. Let’s go from “meh” to “YAS QUEEN” in your niche. Because if Lisa can rake in millions of views, so can you.

        4. Brand Alignment: New Year, (Re)New Brand

          Brand Alignment: New Year, (Re)New Brand

          Brand Alignment: Conducting Brand Reviews to Ensure Brand Health

          It is a commonplace for a brand to overlook the importance of alignment. Companies view a brand as something that is completed once and requires little or no maintenance. This tendency to overlook brand alignment is why we developed the New Year (Re)New Brand webinar. The webinar serves as a reminder of the importance of conducting a yearly review of your brand.

          Completing a yearly brand review ensures that any adjustments and realignment necessary for your brand occurs. The practice of completing a regular brand review also creates awareness of shifts in the marketplace, your business, or your employees. It also allows your businesses to adjust to small changes before any significant issues arise. When a brand is no longer appropriately aligned, the impact can be dramatic.

          The Impact of A Poorly Aligned Brand

          What happens when your brand is no longer aligned with your story and values? One of the significant impacts of a brand being out of alignment is the loss of trust from your customers. This loss of confidence is most visible when customers no longer believe the claims that a brand is making. Additionally, customers don’t think the company is making good on its claims. Another significant impact of poor brand alignment is the perception that the brand is out of touch with the current marketplace or possibly even reality. These are generally symptoms of brands that are dramatically misaligned. The practice of conducting a yearly brand review will prevent poor brand alignment from ever occurring.

          Yearly Brand Alignment Review

          Conducting an annual brand review is an essential part of maintaining a healthy brand. This will ensure that youer brand remains appropriately aligned with your unique brand story and values. At JRH Graphics, we recommend utilizing the 9 Components of Brand Workbook as the starting point for your annual Brand Review. During this review, you should look at the changes you have made in the past year. Additionally, account for shifts in the market and eliminate any invalid differentiators.

          A thorough brand review helps you feel confident that you are entering the new year on the right foot. Go into 2020 as a brand and business that is fully aligned and ready to make a difference.

        5. Tips for Launching A Podcast in 2020

          Tips for Launching A Podcast in 2020

          Ready to Launch Your Podcast in 2020?

          Are you not convinced video is the only way to engage followers on social media? Are you seeking alternative ways to increase engagement and position yourself as a resource for your audience? It sounds like you might be looking to launch a podcast in 2020! Podcasting is a great way to create content and build an audience, and we are providing you tips for starting your podcast right here in this post! Why? Because podcasting allows you to make personal connections and become an authority within your niche.

          Additionally, podcasts are easy for your audience to digest on their own time with no screen necessary. If you have been a content creator, remember most of that content is easy to convert into podcast episodes. So, are you ready to launch?

          Podcasting Here I Come!

          So, you think podcasting is the way for you to go? We figured we should give you some tips and tools. So we did some research and compiled what we found into this blog post below. And after that, we looked at this blog post and found it to be useful but a bit boring. So we reached out to the hilarious Catherine Feeney, who just launched her podcast, and of course, her corresponding blog the Fashun Chronicles and asked if she would want to discuss her podcasting journey with us. When she agreed, we knew this blog post would be much more entertaining.

          Tips for Launching A Podcast

          As we share our tips for launching a podcast, we will go over some of the research we found on the topic. Additionally, we will add our comments and additional suggestions for launching a podcast throughout the post. There are 5 primary stages to launching your own podcast.

          • Planning the Concept- defining the objective, determining the audience, why the audience should listen and naming the podcast
          • Planning the Structure and Episodes- what is the format, how many episodes, are you creating in seasons, how long is an episode, etc
          • Recording & Editing Your Podcast- script or no script, necessary equipment, software needs, music resources
          • Publishing Your Podcast- Episode 1 Season 1 is in the bag!

          We will walk you through each of these steps and hopefully help you understand what you should be doing during each one, and before you know it, you will be starring in a Number 1 Rated Podcast with gobs of listeners!

          Tips for Launching Your Podcast: Concept

          As you prepare to start your podcast for 2020, you need to begin planning the specifics of the podcast you will be producing. While others may not agree, I view this as the most critical step, as you are building a solid foundation for your future work. I also equate this step to the process of building your brand. During this crucial timeframe, you will be defining your “why” for your podcast. In this step, you will decide on your main podcast topic set the goals of your podcast, determine who your audience is, and examine why your audience would listen to your podcast.

          In many cases, you are utilizing your podcast as an extension of your business. Many will be using it as a way to provide an existing business audience with value via the podcast. If this is the case, you may have an audience and objective in mind that supports the niche of your business. Be sure that your business niche translates to your podcast. In some cases, it may be necessary to narrow your niche down further for your podcast to attract the right listeners or expand up to have enough content to discuss on your podcast.

          Defining to Target

          Defining what you want to accomplish with your podcast, determining your podcast audience, and knowing how to connect with your target audience as important parts of the planning stage. Develop a listener persona to highlight the characteristics of a person that would listen to your podcast. Think about how you would engage this listener persona as you build out the concept for your podcast. Make sure that you are giving them a compelling reason to listen to your podcast. What value are they hoping to recieve? Are you delivering them the value they are hoping for?

          What’s In A Name?

          I was thinking of naming my podcast, “My Podcast!,” Then realized that didn’t provide any information about what I would be talking about. It also didn’t tell the audience why they should listen. It also failed to highlight the niche that I had chosen to discuss on my podcast. So, I scrapped that name, and I am looking at some of the basics for naming a podcast.

          • People need to be able to find your content! If you opt for a creative name consider including a subtitle with an accurate description of the material and value you provide
          • Don’t be too descriptive, if I called my podcast The Social Media, Branding, Brand Story and Storytelling for Small Businesses Podcast I would spend half of my podcast trying to get the entire title out of my mouth. Strike a balance between creative and descriptive.
          •  Those who know podcasting also recommend not naming your podcast after yourself, which ruined my dream of being known as Just Jonathan from the Jonathan Show. You know, like Ellen, Oprah, Cher, Prince, Madonna. They have a built-in audience and name recognition, and I do not!

          Tips from Catherine: Content & Positioning

          Before Launching Fashun Chronicles

          Before launching her Fashun Chronicles podcast, Catherine Feeney says she put pen to paper to make sure that her topic was one she could discuss at length. In her blogging journey, she had dabbled in other areas but always returned to fashion. Fashion is one of the passions that she can talk about for “literally days.” She also spent some time thinking about what purpose she would be serving. Since she enjoys helping others and hopes it does not come off as bossy, she began to develop the Hotline concept for the podcast. She would be able to help others with real FAShun emergencies! Memories of listening to the Delilah radio show may have subconsciously inspired this hotline concept. (Long-time listener, First-time caller)!

          Where You Fit In

          Catherine first decided to leap into podcasting after her friends mentioned it this past year over drinks at New York Fashion Week. Her blog didn’t quite seem to fit her anymore. Maybe talking about fashion, and not writing about it in her blog would feel better. Despite the unknowns of podcasting, she felt re-energized when she thought about a podcast full of fashion. So over drinks at NYFW, a podcast was born. Incidentally, she also wanted the podcast to have a casual feel, much like if she were talking to friends over drinks in a bar at NYFW! We certainly think she hit the nail on the head when it comes to authenticity!

          Catherine also noted that not everyone relates to everything, so while there are a lot of fashion bloggers and podcasters out there, she can bring her unique personality to the game. She likes to focus on storytelling (a woman after my own heart) and wants to remain true to herself throughout this journey. Getting people to jump on the journey with her if they wish to is vital to her. Catherine also wants followers to see all the parts of the adventure from start to finish.

          “Always be true to yourself on your journey and do what feels right to you.”

          Tips for Launching Your Podcast: Content

          You have laid the groundwork for your podcast. You have a solid foundation, so it is time to start working on actually planning the content of your podcast. As well as begin looking at the structure that you would like to utilize for your podcast. A lot of podcasters tend to focus on the length of the podcast. Many experts say the right length is 28 minutes but no longer than an hour. However, I support what the team at The Podcast Host said, “only two things should impact the length of your podcast,

          1. Your content
          2. Your audience

          If you have 50 minutes of valuable, relevant content, why chop it down to 20? Or likewise, if you’ve said everything you have to say in 10 minutes, why pad it out to 30? In extreme cases, say you do an interview, and it’s a fantastic conversation from start to finish but runs for 2 hours. You can always chop it in half and create two episodes.

          More Than Just Timing

          There is much more than just the length involved in the content of your podcast planning portion of your podcast launch. You also need to decide on the format of the podcast. Will you have a cohost? Are you doing the show by yourself? The format of the show will play a significant role in what the final product will look like, and each form has its benefits and challenges. In the solo show, you have complete control, you build authority quicker, but it is also harder to feel comfortable as many people will feel like they are talking to themselves. In a show with a co-host, it is generally easier to get started, and if you have great chemistry, it could be fantastic. But what happens when you hit it big, or your co-host stops showing up. Is there more benefit in going it alone for you, or is the co-host key.

          Multiple Variations

          When it comes to the format of the content, there are many different variations of the themes. However, I am partial to dividing a podcast into segments. The segments would allow you to create mini podcasts within the larger podcast that address specific aspects within the themes that you have decided to cover as part of your podcast. Here is an example of how this could work.

          • Episode 1: Teaser, Opening of Podcast, Welcome, Content Teaser, Break, Theme 1 Discussion, Break, Theme 1 Discussion Continued, Break, Theme 2 Interview, Closing, Call to Action, and Outro
          • Then for E2: Teaser, Opening of Podcast, Welcome, Content Teaser, Break, Theme 2 Discussion, Break, Theme 2 Discussion Continued, Break, Theme 3 Q&A, Closing, Call to Action, and Outro
          • Finally, E3: Teaser, Opening of Podcast, Welcome, Content Teaser, Break, Theme 3 Interview, Break, Theme 3 Interview Continued, Break, Theme 1 Discussion, Closing, Call to Action, and Outro

          This segment format allows you to touch on each of your three significant themes two times in the first three episodes. You also created one short mini-podcast and one longer (2 segments) mini-podcast that you can use elsewhere in your content creation strategy. Using this format and approach for your podcast is similar to the Breaking Down Your Blog Content Creation hack we discussed in this blog post!

          Episodes and Seasons

          As you review the themes and structure of your podcast, you may also want to consider your episode release schedule. Will you be releasing a new podcast every month, every week, two per week? How many episodes make up your season of podcasts? Will the overarching theme change with each season?

          Planning for this will allow you to have a better idea of how many segments you will need. Plan for how many guests you may need to set up interviews to fill those slots. Plus, it is a great way to estimate the amount of content you will need to create. Before you finalize the schedule and promise your listeners something, review your schedule, and ensures it is doable. Remember, it is better to under-promise and over-deliver than over-promise and under-deliver.

          On The Air: The Launch Part of Launching Your Podcast!

          You have completed the planning. The part you have been waiting for is finally here. It is time to record your first podcast for thousands of listeners. Or just your mom, but she is one fan that matters! But wait, what is it that you need to record the podcast? So lets first review the equipment required and then discuss the logistics of the actual recording, including some tips for connecting to your audience.

          Your Equipment Needs and Wants

          I am not an expert on this topic, so I am relying on what the professionals at thepodcasthost.com and others are saying. However, all you must have to start your podcast is a computer that has a mic and can get on the internet. The rest is a bonus. To improve the overall sound of your podcast, the folks at thepodcasthost.com recommend purchasing a simple podcasting mic like the Samson Q2U mic. I linked to the podcaster kit, which includes a stand and wind guard for $44.00/tax. If you are going to be conducting interviews on your podcast, you may want to look into purchasing a couple of lav mics for those you are interviewing. The folks at thepodcasthost.com recommend the Rode Smartlav+ lav microphone, which sells at Amazon for $55.00. Keep it simple, and keep in inexpensive when you start.

          More Stuff

          If you are looking for more information on recording equipment, I am attaching a few excellent guides from thepodcasthost.com.

          Recording and Editing Software Needs

          If you are going to launch your podcast in 2020, you are going to need to have some software to help you record and edit your podcast. Two of the most popular podcast recording and editing tools are Audacity and Adobe Audition. Audacity is free software, and Audition is part of Adobe Creative Cloud, so it is a paid service. Both allow you to create a template for your podcasts. These templates make it easy to create slots for things like the introduction, slots for advertisement, the closing, etc. along with the music and all the settings that go with it saved for all of your podcasting episodes. There is also the ability to edit the audio track, music, and all the components of the podcast so that they have clean, crisp sound. Sound editing etc. is a very technical function that I am not even going to try to explain. If you want to know how to edit audio and what settings will work, you can check out resources on thepodcasthost.com or podcastinsights.com or even check out this tutorial on Adobe for your essential podcast editing tips.

          The Actual Show

          You have a plan. You have a mic. The recording and editing software is ready to be fired up. You have a guest for the inaugural interview. So, you sit down, power up the microphone, and immediately after the intro, you draw a blank. You are frozen for more than a few seconds because you have no idea what to say! Don’t worry. This is part of the process. The amount of scripting for a podcast varies for each person. However, every source I have seen recommends that each host scripts some content and creates some notes for them to utilize during their podcast.

          Scripting keeps you on track and minimize the editing and cutting up of the content by creating a bullet point based script that highlights key points and topics.  Do not write out an entire script as that will not translate to a good podcast. A good podcast is more conversational. Utilize your segmented show concept along with your template for your podcast to provide the direction needed for the script.

          Connecting with Your Audience

          It is essential to know who you are talking to, as we said before, in defining your target section. You need to set your audience. Because without knowing your audience, you will not be able to connect to your audience. When you are recording your podcast, you are talking directly to your audience.

          You should know who they are, where they are listening to you, what they are doing, what they are wearing, and what lipstick they have on! Seriously, who is your avatar? Many people find it easier to envision that one person and give them a name. Using the specific characteristics, you can talk directly to them as if they are real people because they are real people.Tips

          From Catherine: The Technical Stuff

          The Content

          Catherine believes that focusing on putting out high-quality content is the most important goal. She isn’t focusing on the numbers. Instead, her focus is on putting out content and engaging her real followers with her podcast. She would rather have four real followers than 400 fake ones. Focus on your brand and engaging your followers. She doesn’t want to waste time on the fake stuff. “I want to focus on the things I love, like the fashion, and the stories behind an outfit,: she say passionatly. Catherine clearly loves her content and her podcast. She feels like her podcast plays to her strengths better than her blog did. Additionally, she is noticing her Instagram posts and stories are also getting better engagement now that she has the podcast.

          She does not script her content for Fashun Chronicles because she wants it to be more casual. However, Catherine does utilize bullet points to keep herself on track. She usually writes down her show notes the day before or the morning of recording her podcast and utilizes them as an outline for the show. The host openly admits to going off on tangents ar times, but she uses the notes and the bullet points to reign herself back in.

          As a final note regarding content she reminds people that they should enjoy doing their podcast. If it feels like work then maybe they should find another outlet.

          How Long?

          Catherine and the experts agree the length doesn’t matter. You will find your audience that has a need or want for your podcast at whatever length as long as you are serving up some fun and exciting content. She believes there is an audience for podcasts from 10 minutes to an hour. She found that her sweet spot is around the 20-25 minute range as a solo podcaster talking about fashion in the day to day sense. With two podcasts a week, and it is what feels comfortable, so she suggests figuring out what feels right to you.

          For the Tech for Your Podcast, Google Has Your Back

          The host of Fashun Chronicles openly admits she doesn’t know how to reboot her phone, so the technical aspects of Podcasting were where she focused most of her research. Catherine was amazed at how many resources were available online, and she admits to still utilizing Google to figure out how to do certain things.

          She eventually found some articles that resonated with her and helped her find her way, from what mic hse needed to what hosting platform was best for her (she finds Libsyn very easy to use but difficult to pronounce)! She even learned to use Audacity by herself online, and if she has issues with it now, she asks the Google machine, and it helps her through the process.

          Tips for Launching Your Podcast: Cover Art

          Up to this point I have pretty much told you to not spend an extra dime. After all, you could spend a fortune getting someone to produce, edit and promote your podcast for you. Another small fortune paying for the rights to the best music. Plus calculate your hourly rate multiplied by the number of hours you work on the podcast. Yup, this sh!t can get expensive! You don’t even have an audience yet, so be saavy on what you spend money on! However, i do recommend investing in your cover art. Get a great photographer or designer (depending on the look you are going for) and invest here. The perfect cover art will reveal a little bit about the host, explain what the podcast is about, and intrigue people enough to get them to want to listen.

          Additionally, the cover art will be with you for at least a season, so it needs to inform, entice, and convert for multiple episodes and it has to do this in places like iTunes where you are competing with images from top artists, podcasters and more. So spend a little money here and make it work for you. Utilize the images you create in promotions, on social media, in your press releases, to book guests, wherever you can.

          Editing Your Podcast

          No matter how perfect you are scripting, how amazing your guests are, and how much you nailed it, you will still have some editing to do. Editing is a technical aspect of the podcast. I would not be the right resource to advise you on how to edit a podcast. I can say that both the software solutions I mentrioned for recording also allow you do do the type of editing that you will need to put your podcast together. If you need more assistance with this, I recommend looking into tutorials on how to use the software you chose on youtube.com or via some of the podcasting resources available. The other option is to pay to have somebody edit your podcast for you, but as a beginner, unless this is a well-established business, I would not recommend that route.

          Music for Your Podcast

          You can’t just select any song to use 15 seconds of as your intro music, as much as you want to that is going to be expensive, as you would need to pay the artist! There are sites available where you can buy licenses to utilize certain music and others that have vast libraries of music that you can utilize once you pay your monthly membership. There are a few things you should look for regarding music.

          • you are looking for music with creative common licenses
          • I recommend using well know and established resources
          • be aware of the type of license you purchase.

          Publishing Your Podcast and Putting it Out There

          You have just about done it, you have almost launched your podcast. Now, you need to put it out there for people to discover, listen to, and fall in love with! Yes, even if it is just your mom to start! So, let’s get that podcast out to the people! First, you will need a podcast or a media host. Then you will either add your podcasts to your website (or create a website) and then finally submit your podcast to directories.

          Podcast or Media Host

          You have dozens of podcast hosts to choose from, which is incredible and daunting at the same time! Luckily, there are tons of lists out there about some of the best podcast hosting sites. Recently, Jon Street of Resonaterecordings.com listed the top five podcast hosting sites with lots of useful details on each. You can check out that article here! The top 5 he reviewed thoroughly are:

          In my research and discussions with people, both Buzzsprout and Libsyn have come up as the leaders. Buzzsproat for the features and ease of use. Libsyn because of longevity and ease of use for the newcomers. Libsyn also makes it easy to submit to directories. Review and choose the one that fits your needs and budget, and as you grow, if you need to change, you will be able to do that as well.

          A Home for the Newly Launched Podcast

          Once you have a media host that will host your audio podcast files, you will also set up a website to display and deliver your podcasts. You get a page with most hosting services that you can utilize for this purpose. Many people also create an independently hosted page or add the podcast to their existing site. If you choose to add it to your current website, there are podcast tools that you can add to make it easy for listeners to grab your podcast!

          Submitting Your Podcast to Directories

          The directories are how you get discovered, build up your subscribers, and continue to deliver killer content! The number one and most crucial directory ATM is Apple Podcasts. If you only get yourself listed in one directory, this is it. Over 60% of podcast downloads come via iTunes. To get your podcast listed, you need to sign on to iTunesconnect.apple.com using your Apple ID and then click the new feed option to add your podcast. As our guest Catherine Feeney pointed out, Libsyn helped make this part of the job easy.

          Some other significant directories:

          • Stitcher
          • Google Podcasts
          • Spotify
          • TuneIn
          • Blubrry
          • PodBean
          • Radio Public

          Next Steps

          Take a deep breath, pat yourself on the back, and revel in the fact that you have a podcast. The next step is promotion. But we aren’t going to go into that here, if you want to learn about specific ways to promote your podcast outside of the general promotional tactics I provide for social media, check out some of the resources on thepodcasthost.com and podcastinsights.com. And Congrats on Launching, we hope that our tips for launching a podcast were useful! And don’t forget to let us know what podcast so we can subscribe!

          A Special Shout Out

          We want to give a special shout out to Catherine Feeney of the Fashun Chronicles who added some great insight, fun energy and at least a few laughs to this blog post. Her insight on blogging, podcasts and social media was greatly appreciated as she added a great deal of value adn a frame of reference to this post. I wish I could have shared more of the hour conversation I had with this hilarious lady, but we just had so much to cover! And you should always leave them asking for more!

          And if you want to hear more from Catherine, hop on over to her podcast and get to know more about this fashionable and funny lady!! Click the banner below to listen on iTunes!

          All photos by Arielle Lewis Studios, Washington DC