Ben Yanes, a personal trainer and online fitness coach known for his expertise in strength training, returns to discuss the pitfalls of bad advice for young trainers and the nuances of using gym machines. He shares insights on optimizing arm training mechanics and the significance of training volume for muscle building. Yanes emphasizes the balance between strength training methods and individual needs, while also exploring the challenges of creating digital content and effective email marketing strategies for engaging audiences.
Ben Yanes emphasizes the importance of authentic content creation, consistently engaging with his audience to foster a strong community connection.
He highlights the necessity of expanding coaching models beyond one-on-one sessions, advocating for value-driven products to ensure business sustainability.
Ben discusses the effectiveness of email marketing as a personal communication tool, allowing deeper audience engagement through meaningful storytelling.
Deep dives
Ben Yanez's Journey into Personal Training
Ben Yanez shares his background as a personal trainer, highlighting his transition from being a young athlete to a fitness coach. He describes how his experience in various sports, particularly American football and baseball, led him to discover his passion for strength training rather than competitive sports. After realizing his enjoyment of lifting, he began unofficially personal training friends and peers while still in college, eventually moving to paid online coaching. This foundational experience, coupled with a desire to share knowledge, propelled him towards creating content online and establishing himself in the fitness industry.
The Importance of Authentic Content Creation
Content creation is a key factor in Ben's success, as he emphasizes the value of consistent, authentic engagement with his audience. He notes that he has committed to posting content every day for over a thousand days without fail, indicating that this dedication has fostered a strong connection with his followers. Unlike many who chase viral trends, his focus remains on genuine and practical content that resonates with viewers. This approach has significantly contributed to his growth on social media platforms, showcasing his commitment to providing meaningful value.
Navigating Stress Tests in Content Creation
Ben discusses the challenges he faces in content creation, particularly with the inevitability of receiving negative feedback or skepticism from others. He stresses the importance of focusing on personal growth and perseverance in the face of external disapproval. For him, the act of posting is driven more by the desire to share knowledge rather than seeking validation. Ben points out that as a content creator, it's crucial to recognize that pushback is a natural part of the journey, and maintaining focus on one's goal can help navigate these stress tests.
The Role of User Feedback and Market Adaptation
In Ben's experience, the feedback garnered from his audience significantly shapes his content and business strategy. He highlights the importance of being receptive to audience needs and adapting to their preferences, which aids in tailoring content to better engage viewers. By encouraging questions and interactions through platforms like email and social media, Ben fosters a community of learners eager to absorb fitness knowledge. This feedback loop not only benefits his audience but also allows him to refine his online presence and business offerings.
Ben emphasizes the necessity of expanding beyond traditional one-on-one coaching models to foster business sustainability and growth. He mentions the importance of creating value-driven products such as e-books and courses, which can be sold independently from ongoing coaching responsibilities. This approach not only allows for passive income generation but also offers a scalable revenue model that isn't dependent on individual client schedules. By building a diverse portfolio of offerings, Ben encourages aspiring coaches to consider multiple avenues for income and personal branding.
Strategies for Effective Communication and Marketing
In discussing his marketing techniques, Ben underscores the effectiveness of email marketing as a personal communication tool rather than solely a sales channel. He views it as an intimate way to engage with an audience, allowing for deeper connections through stories and valuable content delivered directly to their inboxes. By automating certain aspects of his email communication, he ensures that consistent value is provided without the need to produce new content daily. His experience suggests that blending personal stories with strategic marketing can create a compelling narrative that resonates with potential customers.
Ben Yanes joins us back on the show for the first time since 2021 to check in and talk some shop! The lads discuss: Bad advice given to young trainers, Ben’s take on email marketing, and the use and misuse of machines in the gym!
Check Out Angus’ Organic Content & E-Commerce E-book:
