Creatives On Fire® Podcast | Blogging & Online Business Growth Strategies

This week’s episode of Creatives on Fire is a rapid-fire breakdown of how to get more eyeballs on your top-performing blog posts without creating new content from scratch. These ideas will help you stretch the life of your posts, build momentum, and ultimately increase your traffic, engagement, and income. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode195 You’ve already done the hard work. Now let’s make that blog post work even harder for you. Why You Should Be Repurposing Blog Content If a post is performing well, don’t let it sit idle. Instead of constantly creating something new, build systems around redistributing your best content to give it a longer shelf life. Whether it's via social, email, video, or products—there are countless ways to extend the value of your top content. Here are 13 creative ways to do exactly that: 1. Pull a Quote and Share It as Text on Social Media Find a powerful line or tip from your blog post and share it as plain text on a colorful background. This works great on Facebook, Instagram, and even in stories. Add the blog link in the first comment or the caption to drive traffic. 2. Turn Blog Graphics into a Social Carousel or Reel Take 5–10 graphics or photos from the blog post and create a quick-scroll carousel or a short video reel. This is perfect for Instagram or Facebook and helps breathe new life into your visuals. Bonus tip: Use a tool like Post Planner (linked below in the episode) to put your graphics on autopilot. 3. Create Multiple Pinterest Pins Don’t stop at one pin. Create 5–10 different versions with varied images and headlines. Use different boards—including a board dedicated to that one blog post if it performs exceptionally well. 4. Create a Long-Form Tutorial Video If the post is a how-to or recipe, turn it into a YouTube video or a longer Facebook/Instagram tutorial. Walk your audience through the steps while linking to the original post for the full details. 5. Share It in Stories as a Talking Point Pop into your Instagram or Facebook stories and talk about the post. No editing required. Just share what it’s about and why it’s worth their time. Add a link sticker to send people directly to the post. 6. Share It on Syndicated Sites Find niche-specific platforms like Hometalk, Foodgawker, or CraftGawker (depending on your niche) and submit your content. Always tag relevant brands or creators—they may reshare and expand your reach even further. 7. Turn It into a Digital Product or Ebook Copy and paste your post into ChatGPT or Canva Docs and ask it to format it as an ebook. Sell it as a low-ticket product or bundle it with similar content in your shop. 8. Make It a Lead Magnet Use your most popular post as an opt-in offer. For example: “Want to learn how to make a perfect messy bow? Grab the tutorial here!” Collect emails and deliver the blog post as the freebie. 9. Repurpose It for Your Email List Paste the first paragraph or a juicy snippet into your weekly newsletter with a link to the full post. You can even pull content from old posts this time last year—done is better than perfect! 10. Link It to Other Blog Posts Add links to this top-performing post at the bottom of other related content. This internal linking helps readers (and Google) stay on your site longer and see your most valuable content. 11. Use It in a Roundup Post Create a themed roundup that includes the top blog post. If your lemon bundt cake is going viral, write a “Best Lemon Desserts” roundup and include that post (plus two to three more). Internal linking and SEO win-win. 12. Record It as Audio or Podcast Content Add an audio version of the post to your blog (tools like Play.ht or ConvertKit’s new audio block work well), or reference it on your podcast. You can even read it word-for-word as an episode. 13. Mention It in Your Live Video or Stories (Bonus Tip!) Talk about the post while you're live or in your weekly stories. Use keyword triggers and automated tools to send the link when viewers comment. This is great for engagement and email list growth. Make Repurposing a Habit, Not a One-Off Choose 3–5 of these ideas to start with and build a routine. Repurposing doesn’t have to be overwhelming—just intentional. Add these steps to your content checklist and watch your reach and results grow. Got another creative way to repurpose a post? Share your favorite method in the comments on the blog. offers free consultations and would love to help you share your story with the world! Links Mentioned in the Episode: Spark Coaching + Melanie 24/7 FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

In this week’s episode of Creatives on Fire, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Stu McLaren—yes, that Stu McLaren! If you’ve ever considered adding a membership model to your creative business (or are wondering what memberships even are), this episode is your invitation to stop waiting and start creating recurring revenue today. Stu has been helping entrepreneurs build thriving membership businesses for over 17 years. His guidance helped shape the memberships of creators, bloggers, and even big brands. In this conversation, he shares the why, the how, and the what now for anyone ready to build a sustainable business online. Why Memberships Make So Much Sense If you’re already paying for Netflix, Amazon Prime, or a subscription box, you’re part of the membership economy. So why not create your own recurring revenue stream? Stu shared that memberships are more stable, predictable, and less stressful than relying solely on one-time sales. With algorithm changes, platform instability, and constant pivots in the online world, a membership can bring the peace and sustainability every entrepreneur craves. “Any creator or business owner can have a membership—and the ones who do are creating freedom and stability.” —Stu McLaren The 4 Types of Memberships Stu broke down the four major types of memberships—and you’ll probably see yourself in one (or more) of them: Product-Based Memberships Recurring delivery of physical or digital products. Think: printables of the month, subscription boxes, or digital design bundles. Service-Based Memberships Perfect for coaches, massage therapists, stylists, or even VA services. Provide consistent support and recurring client care. Knowledge-Based Memberships Teach a skill, solve an ongoing problem, or save your members time through tools, tutorials, or lesson plans. Community-Based Memberships Foster connection through shared experiences or passions. Think mastermind groups or niche hobby clubs. How to Start: The Founding Member Launch This part is pure gold. Stu outlines a simple, no-tech-needed way to validate your idea and get paid before you build anything. It’s called a founding member launch, and it involves these 5 steps: Explain the idea and where it came from Cast the vision for what this could become Invite people to join as founding members Provide a clear call to action Follow up with a payment link That’s it. No sales page, no tech hurdles—just a message that allows people to say “I’m in.” And yes, you could literally do this by the end of the day. The Secret to a Thriving Membership in 2025 What makes a membership last? According to Stu, it’s all about helping members experience consistent progress. The more progress your members make, the happier they are—and the longer they stay. Keep It Simple Don’t overwhelm members with content. Overwhelm is the #1 reason people cancel. Help them take action, not consume endlessly. Use a Success Path Break the transformation into clear, achievable stages. Help members know what to focus on based on where they are in the journey. Leverage AI to Create Margin Let tools handle repetitive tasks so you can focus on real connection. People stay for the results—but also the relationships. Predictable Profits: Stu’s New Book Stu’s brand-new book Predictable Profits distills 17 years of membership-building wisdom into an actionable, approachable read. He even designed it to be bingeable with bite-sized chapters and lots of visuals (his words: “Yes, I love pictures!”). You can grab a free copy (just pay shipping) at: 👉 freemembershipbook.com Ready to Build Your Membership? Join the Free Workshop! Stu is hosting a free membership workshop starting May 8th, where he’ll walk you through launching your founding membership—even if you have no content or audience yet. You’ll learn how to get paying members during the workshop itself, with optional VIP sessions that offer live support, coaching, and hot seat feedback. 👉 Click here to join the workshop (link to be inserted) Final Thoughts If you’re feeling uncertain about the future of your business, Stu’s approach to memberships might be the lifeline you need. With recurring revenue, you can focus on your mission, serve your people deeply, and stop stressing over every single sale. This episode will light a fire under you—and give you the exact steps to finally launch that membership you've been dreaming about. offers free consultations and would love to help you share your story with the world! Links Mentioned in the Episode: Grab Your Copy of Stu's Book HERE Join the Membership Workshop HERE Spark Coaching + Melanie 24/7 FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

This week on the podcast, I’m excited to introduce you to my sweet friend, Char Huskins! Char has been in the online world for 28 years, and her love for helping women share their stories through blogging shines so brightly. We dive deep into why blogging still matters, how to set your blog up for success, and what to do if you're overwhelmed trying to piece it all together yourself. If you've ever wondered whether blogging is worth it—or if you're dreaming of launching (or revamping) your own site—this episode is for you. Char's Journey: From Early Website Design to Helping Women Share Their Stories Char first entered the website world long before blogging was even a thing. As blogging evolved, she fell in love with WordPress and the idea of helping women find their voice online. Today, she specializes in building beautiful, customized websites and blogs that allow creatives to not just show up online, but shine. She believes your blog isn’t just a website—it’s a legacy that can turn into a book, a brand, or a full-blown business. What Char Offers: Full-Service Blog Setup and Ongoing Management Char helps women who want to blog (or who already started and got stuck) with two main services: Custom Website + Blog Builds Char creates a fully customized WordPress website that includes: Home, About, Contact, and other core pages Blog setup ready for ongoing posting Branding and logo assistance if needed Full collaboration on the look, feel, and function you want Typical timeline? About one month from start to finish, depending on how much content you have ready. "I specialize in taking over where people feel stuck—and creating a full, beautiful site they’re proud of." Blog Management Services If blogging feels overwhelming, Char also offers blog management: Ghostwriting blog posts (4, 8, or 12 per month) Pinterest graphic creation Social media graphics that match your posts Optional email marketing setup help (like Flodesk or Mailchimp) You can fully outsource your blog, get a few posts a month, or just get help getting started until you find your own rhythm. Why DIY Websites Aren't Always the Best Option While DIY website builders are tempting, Char shared why having a real expert matters. With her approach, you’re not just buying a “template”—you’re building a foundation for your business the right way, without the constant headache of fixing mistakes later. Working with Char means: Your site is built the right way from the start It’s tailored to your goals, your brand, and your audience You’ll save time, frustration, and ultimately, money And her pricing is shockingly affordable for the level of customization and support you get. Is Blogging Still Worth It? Absolutely! Char and I both agreed: blogging looks different than it used to, but it’s still powerful. Today, blogging is more about: Pairing your blog with your email list to drive traffic Using social media to bring people to your own platform Creating evergreen content that lives for years "Blogging is still alive and well—you just have to pivot a little and focus on connection." Char also pointed out that building an email list alongside your blog is critical today, since you own your email list (but you don't own your social media following). Links Mentioned in the Episode: Char Huskin's Blogging Services Spark Coaching + Melanie 24/7 FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

This week on the podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of welcoming back my dear friend Danielle Stringer, the talented creator behind Imperfect Dust. Danielle is more than a maker—she’s a business mentor, mastermind host, and now an author. Her new book, The Maker’s Guide to Multiplying, is all about helping creatives scale their skills, their reach, and their income. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to figure out your next step, or you're not sure how to grow beyond one-on-one sales, you’re going to love this conversation. From One Sign at a Time to Scaling with Systems Danielle started out hand-lettering signs and selling them one by one. Eventually, she realized that model wasn’t sustainable, and it certainly wasn’t scalable. Her turning point? Teaching others how to do what she was doing. By moving from one-to-one to one-to-many, Danielle opened up new revenue streams through in-person workshops, online classes, and a digital file subscription called Digital Dust. She shared that teaching what she knew actually multiplied her reach—and her income. “When I finally yielded and started teaching what I know, that’s when things truly started to multiply.” Mindset, Marketing, and Multiplication What makes Danielle’s approach unique is her commitment to starting with mindset. Right from page one, she’s walking readers through how consistency builds trust and how trusting God's abundance allows us to share freely without fear of scarcity. She talks about: Multiplying your reach by connecting with your audience authentically Multiplying your impact by showing up consistently Multiplying your time and freedom by focusing on the one thing that moves the needle Multiplying your knowledge by learning from others and building your network “It’s a choice to trust that God’s blessings are not limited and neither are His plans for you.” Listening and Scaling Based on Customer Feedback Danielle’s growth didn’t come from guessing—it came from listening. She regularly asks her audience what they need and uses their answers to craft solutions. Whether it was through live videos, interactive posts, or simply tuning into DMs and comments, she took notes and turned them into action. That kind of responsiveness led her to a recurring revenue model that now supports her business and gives her back more time. Paid Ads, Subscription Growth, and Sustainable Scaling Danielle also shared how running her first paid ad campaign catapulted her monthly subscribers from 350 to over 1,200. She created a low-barrier entry point with a Scripture Lettering Workshop, delivered value, and then invited participants into her full membership. By offering a tangible transformation up front, she created trust and increased conversions—without feeling salesy. From Maker to CEO This isn’t just a how-to book. It’s a complete mindset shift. Danielle talks about stepping out of the maker mentality and stepping into the CEO role. She emphasizes focusing on the one thing that moves your business forward, delegating where you can, and trusting that you don’t have to do everything alone. “You don’t have to go be a missionary or be what other people consider radical. You can live an ordinary life to the glory of God and have amazing impact.” The Book + The Challenge Danielle’s book, The Maker’s Guide to Multiplying, is available now and packed with practical tools and faith-based encouragement to help you grow what you’ve already built. And if you want to take things one step further, she’s hosting a live three-day challenge called Scale Your Skill starting May 6. You’ll get hands-on training via Zoom and be surrounded by other makers ready to multiply their impact. Where to Find Danielle Follow Danielle online at: https://instagram.com/imperfectdust (creative account) https://instagram.com/learnwithdanielle (business coaching) LearnWithDanielle.com for details on her challenge and book Stay tuned for more inspiration, and until next time—stay creative! Links Mentioned in the Episode: Spark Coaching + Melanie 24/7 FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in your business at midnight, needing advice and wondering “What do I do now?” — this one’s for you. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode191 In this week’s episode of the Creatives on Fire Podcast, I’m finally unveiling something I’ve been working on behind the scenes for months. It’s called Spark Coaching + Melanie 24/7, and it’s basically a digital version of me in your back pocket — anytime you need help, guidance, or a little push to move forward. This is not generic or one-size-fits-all. This is Spark Coaching powered by Melanie 24/7 — a smart, intuitive resource that gives you instant answers, strategy direction, and mindset support whenever you need it. SPARK COACHING INFO Why I Created It Because I’ve been where you are. Stuck on what step to take next Buying courses and never opening them Waiting on group coaching calls to maybe get one question answered Needing help in the weirdest hours of the day (or night) And I wanted to create something that could serve more of you without sacrificing quality — or accessibility. What Is Spark Coaching? Unlimited 24/7 access to ask anything Ongoing updates from new trainings, episodes, and experiences Memory of past conversations (no more “starting from scratch”) Private transcripts and saved outlines to refer back to Monthly live Zoom calls with me for real-time Q&A and hot seat coaching What’s Melanie 24/7? It’s a digital coaching experience trained on everything I’ve ever created: All of my blog posts Every podcast episode My book, digital products, and paid trainings Plus 15 years of business-building experience It's personalized, intuitive, and shockingly spot-on. I’ve poured my strategies, frameworks, and go-to answers into this so that you’re never left spinning your wheels. What Can You Ask? Literally anything related to: Blogging Social media Lead magnets Launches Pricing Passive income Sales copy Audience growth And all those pesky techy questions like “What size should my Facebook group banner be?” You’ll get real answers — not generic advice — based on my actual methods and business philosophy. Is This for You? Spark Coaching is for you if: You’re overwhelmed with too many options You need quick, personalized answers so you can get back to work You want clarity, confidence, and momentum You’re tired of waiting for help You’ve ever said “I just wish someone would tell me what to do next” Whether you’re just starting or already in the weeds with launches, courses, or content — this tool meets you where you are and helps you move forward. Founding Member Bonus Join now and become a founding member of Spark Coaching. You’ll get: Instant access to Melanie 24/7 An invite to the next Zoom coaching call Lifetime access to the transcripts and insights And a huge head start on your goals Let’s make growing your business feel easier, faster, and way more fun. You don’t have to figure everything out on your own anymore. 👉 SPARK COACHING INFO Until next time my friend, stay creative. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Spark Coaching + Melanie 24/7 FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

Are you questioning your calling or your direction in business right now? If you're feeling unsure, stuck, or wondering whether you're really doing what you're meant to do, this episode is for you. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode190 This week on the Creatives on Fire Podcast, I’m getting honest about something that’s been weighing on me: wondering if what I’ve been building is still right for me. Maybe you've asked yourself the same question. Between Google traffic dips, social media changes, and shifting industry trends, it’s easy to doubt. But before you give up, take a breath. Slow down. Reflect. Let’s walk through 7 powerful clues to help you discover whether you’re still operating in your sweet spot — that magical place where purpose, passion, and potential meet. 7 Clues You’re in Your Sweet Spot It captures your imagination and inspires you daily. You think about it when you wake up and fall asleep with ideas swirling. But don’t expect instant fireworks — sometimes your sweet spot needs a trial run (think: 90-day mattress guarantee!). Even when it’s hard, you never want to give up. Challenges don’t stop you. They fuel you. If you keep coming back to it despite setbacks, you’re likely doing what you’re meant to do. You’re more excited about it than anyone else. When others lose interest or walk away, you’re still here — energized, hopeful, and maybe even a little Pollyanna about the future. That’s a sign. It consumes your thinking — in a good way. You find yourself mentally working through ideas throughout your day because you want to. It’s not draining, it’s life-giving. It shapes your identity. Whether you realize it or not, people know you for what you do. It defines how others see you — and often, how you see yourself. It feels easier for you than it does for others. What others find overwhelming, you find exciting. It doesn’t mean it’s easy, but it means you’re equipped. It’s where your purpose, passion, and potential intersect. When all three align, that is your sweet spot. And if you’re not sure what your passion is, I’ve linked a free resource here to help you find it. Final Thoughts If you’re feeling frozen — unsure if you should keep going — don’t quit. Slow down, reflect, and remember why you started. I personally hit a wall and stopped posting. But I found my way back by revisiting my "why": Time freedom Limitless income opportunity Creative expression They’re all still possible — even if the landscape looks different. The takeaway? You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to take the next right step. Keep going. Keep testing. Don’t give up too soon. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Free Resource: Finding Your Passion 69 | Creating a Courageous Legacy 93 | 5 Ways to Make Decision-Making Less Stressful 115 | Creative Decision Fatigue FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators

This week on the Creatives on Fire podcast, I’m honored to welcome back one of our most inspiring guests—Sara McDaniel of Simply Southern Cottage. If you’ve ever dreamed of using your platform and skills to make a real impact, this episode is for you. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode189 You may know Sara as the woman behind the viral renovation of her Minden, Louisiana cottage—a story that launched her into the national spotlight with features on HGTV, the Magnolia Network, and more. But today, she’s taking things to a whole new level. Sara is spearheading a deeply personal nonprofit project called Phillips Cottage—a transitional home for women and children graduating from Louisiana Teen Challenge. Named in honor of her late father, a beloved youth pastor and lifelong runner, this home is being lovingly restored to serve as a fresh start for women rebuilding their lives after addiction recovery. In this episode, Sara shares: The powerful journey that led her to leave her W-2 job and pursue full-time content creation How she found and fought for the Phillips Cottage property Her vision for providing safe, affordable, and beautiful housing for families in transition How the local community—and brands like Grandin Road—are rallying behind this mission Details about the first annual Phillips 5K happening on April 12 in Minden, LA Whether you’re a creator, a dreamer, or someone looking to support a meaningful cause, this episode will leave you encouraged and full of ideas on how to use your own gifts to give back. How You Can Help: Donate directly to support the renovation of Phillips Cottage Partner with Sara through product or sponsorship collaborations Register for the Phillips 5K (in-person or virtually!) Spread the word by sharing this episode or following Sara’s journey on social media Sara is proof that when you combine creativity, faith, and purpose, amazing things can happen—not just for your own brand, but for an entire community. Until next time, stay creative—and stay full of purpose. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Donate to Phillips Cottage Register for the Phillips 5K Stay at Simply Southern Cottage Villas Listen to Sara’s Full Story FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

In this episode of Creatives on Fire, I welcome back one of my favorite returning guests and all-around business genius, KariAnne Wood of Thistlewood Farms. If you're looking for practical, proven strategies to generate income online, this conversation is one you'll want to bookmark. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode188 From blogging and affiliate marketing to YouTube and beyond, KariAnne pulls back the curtain on her 28 revenue streams and shares what’s working right now—and how you can get started too. KariAnne’s Top 3 Money-Making Strategies That Are Working Right Now When we sat down to reflect on what’s driving real results in her business in 2024, KariAnne revealed that three things are bringing in the biggest income: Affiliate Marketing Blogging YouTube Not only are these strategies scalable, but they’re platforms where she’s found consistent and long-term income opportunities. KariAnne emphasized how blogging and YouTube allow you to “triple dip” with brand sponsorships, ad income, and affiliate links—all from one piece of content. “That ability to take one piece of content and make it last for a long time and make more money from it… is probably one of my favorite ways to make money right now.” —KariAnne Wood The Importance of Growing Your Audience First To monetize effectively, KariAnne stresses the importance of building your audience. Whether it’s through blog posts, email, or social media, consistency and authenticity are key. One of her top affiliate tips? Use platforms like ShopMy, Amazon, and LTK strategically—by assigning each a role in your content strategy. Use Amazon for daily lifestyle items Use LTK for home tours and fashion Use ShopMy for curated product features and specific brand partnerships (like Target or Anthropologie) And her biggest advice for beginners: start small and stay consistent. Share just one product per day on each platform. That daily rhythm adds up quickly and helps establish you as a trustworthy source for recommendations. Content Creation Tips from a Pro Blogger KariAnne posts five times a week on her blog using this simple format: Decorating post Story/encouragement post Affiliate product roundup Simple tip or how-to Weekly wrap-up (called Thistlekeeping) For those who can’t commit to five blog posts a week, she recommends doing one of each monthly to maintain a balance of inspiration, education, and monetization. KariAnne also offered a brilliant idea for content creation: head to your favorite store, fill your cart with beautiful items, and film yourself pulling each one out in-store to feature on a reel. It’s budget-friendly content that performs well and drives affiliate income. Why YouTube Deserves Your Attention While still growing her YouTube channel, KariAnne is investing time and energy into YouTube Shorts. By posting two Shorts per day, she’s been able to steadily increase her subscribers and get closer to unlocking more monetization features. Shorts are helping her grow without the pressure of long-form video editing—and she recommends it as a low-barrier entry point for bloggers who want to expand their reach. Want more content like this? Be sure to subscribe to the Creatives on Fire podcast and join us each week as we share simple, actionable strategies for content creators who want to grow their audience—and their income. Until next time, stay creative. strategy. Be sure to check it out below! Links Mentioned in the Episode: KariAnne’s Blog: Thistlewood Farms Join Let’s Make Money: Check it out here Affiliate Platforms: ShopMy Learn more about how to batch and schedule content with this episode on batching content FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

If you're looking to boost your income using Instagram Stories, this episode is for you! Today’s episode is a returning favorite—Sara McDaniel from Simply Southern Cottage! Sara is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to Instagram Stories, and today, she’s giving us her best tips on how to use Stories effectively, grow your audience, and increase your income. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode187 The Power of Instagram Stories Instagram Stories are one of the best ways to connect with your audience, build trust, and drive sales. But is there a secret formula for success? According to Sara, it comes down to showing up consistently, being real, and engaging with your followers. She’s been using Instagram for over seven years, and her approach is simple yet effective. Let’s break it down. How Sara Uses Instagram Stories to Grow Her Brand Sara’s strategy is based on authenticity and consistency. Here’s how she structures her daily Stories: She Starts the Day with a Greeting: Every morning, Sarah sets expectations for her audience by sharing what’s coming up that day. This helps keep people engaged and eager to follow along. She Shares Real-Time, Everyday Moments: Her content isn’t staged—it’s real-life storytelling that makes her audience feel like they’re right there with her. Whether it’s pulling a shopping cart out of a creek or overseeing a new real estate project, Sarah takes followers behind the scenes. She Mixes in Affiliate and Promotional Content Organically: About 20% of her content is focused on affiliate links, brand partnerships, or promotions. She sprinkles in these offers between her everyday updates to keep the balance natural and engaging. She Uses a Simple Posting Schedule: 7:30 AM - Posts a reel, carousel, or static post. 9:00-10:00 AM - Starts Stories for the day. Throughout the Day - Updates with real-time events, behind-the-scenes content, and occasional promotions. 6:00 PM - Wraps up the day’s content. How to Make Your Instagram Stories More Engaging One of Sara’s top tips for boosting engagement is talking directly to your audience. Instead of saying “Hey guys!” or “Hey y’all,” she recommends speaking to one person and looking into the camera. Here are a few more engagement hacks she swears by: ✅ Use the Poll and Question Stickers – These keep people interacting with your content. ✅ Encourage Direct Messages (DMs) – Instagram prioritizes Stories that spark DMs, so ask followers to reply instead of just using a question box. ✅ Turn on Story Notifications – Teach your audience how to get notified when you post so they never miss an update. The Instagram Stories Selling Formula Sara has been able to turn Instagram Stories into a profitable revenue stream by integrating affiliate links, brand deals, and strategic content placement. How Much Can You Make Selling in Stories? Affiliate income varies, but it can be a sustainable revenue stream when done consistently. Sara’s advice? Only promote products you genuinely love. Your audience trusts you, and that trust translates into conversions. Is There a “Right” Way to Post Stories? Some creators say that letting your Stories reset to zero views for 24 hours once a week can help increase overall engagement. Sara typically does this on Sundays to reset and recharge. To restart her Story cycle, she begins with a text-heavy slide that asks followers to reply in her DMs. This signals Instagram that her Stories are engaging, which helps boost her reach. Final Tips for Selling in Stories Be consistent – Show up every day (or most days) to keep your audience engaged. Batch content when possible – Pre-recording saves time and reduces stress. Test different approaches – Try a mix of storytelling, product promotions, and engagement strategies to see what resonates best. Don’t overthink it! – Stories are meant to be casual and fun. Treat them like a conversation with a friend. Want to Learn Even More? Sara is also the co-founder of Pink Creatives, a business retreat where she and Wendy from Chair Whimsy teach women how to scale their businesses. Registration opens April 1st for their next retreat in October.   Get on the waitlist HERE if you’re interested in joining them! Take Action! I’m sharing my Selling in Stories on Instagram Complete Guide—a step-by-step resource to help you master the technical side of Stories, optimize your highlights, and increase views and engagement. Plus, I’ve included a handy calendar template to simplify your selling strategy. Be sure to check it out below! Links Mentioned in the Episode: Sara's Instagram Sara McDaniel Simply Southern Cottage Sara & Wendy's Pink Creatives Retreat Selling in Stories Guide Wendy Conklin's Episode FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")

Taking a break doesn't mean putting your business on hold. Whether you're heading out for spring break or a much-needed summer vacation, you can still stay productive without sacrificing quality time with your loved ones. In this episode of Creatives on Fire, I'm sharing three powerful productivity hacks that will help you keep your business running smoothly while truly enjoying your time away. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode186 Plan Ahead: Identify Your Non-Negotiables Before you head out on vacation, take some time to define your non-negotiables—the essential tasks that must happen for your business to continue running. The best-case scenario? Batch and schedule as much content as possible before leaving. If you haven't yet explored a scheduling tool, now is the perfect time to try a free trial. Scheduling your social media posts, emails, or blog content ahead of time allows you to focus on your trip without worrying about staying active online. Pro Tip: Check out my previous episode on batching content—linked in the show notes—for a deeper dive into how to prepare your content in advance. Time Management: Set Realistic Expectations Instead of promising yourself you'll work "whenever you find the time" (because let's be honest, you won't), map out a clear plan before you leave. Ask yourself: Will you have any downtime? Are you traveling with a big group, or will there be quiet moments? Would getting up early to work for an hour be realistic? If work is a must, decide in advance when and where you'll fit it in. Choose a dedicated workspace—whether it's a business center at your hotel or a cozy coffee shop nearby. Let your family or travel companions know when you’ll be working so there are no unexpected interruptions. Another option? Hire a freelancer for one-time tasks while you’re away. Platforms like Fiverr or Upwork allow you to delegate work like video editing, blog writing, or social media scheduling—freeing up your vacation for actual relaxation. Work on Your Business—Without Working Your time away is the perfect opportunity to capture content for future use. Take advantage of new locations, beautiful scenery, and unique experiences to gather B-roll footage or lifestyle photos. These images and videos will be invaluable for future blog posts, social media, and promotional materials. Need ideas? Film short video clips that can be used for Instagram Reels, TikTok, or background visuals for YouTube. Capture behind-the-scenes moments of your trip to share with your audience later. Ask a friend or family member to snap a few candid photos of you in different settings. Even if you're not actively writing or creating, you're still building a content bank that will serve you long after your vacation ends. Enjoy the Break You Deserve Remember, the goal is not to force productivity while you’re on vacation—it’s to set yourself up for success ahead of time so you can truly relax and recharge. Batch and schedule content before you leave. Decide your non-negotiables and carve out specific work time if necessary. Capture content passively without disrupting your vacation. By planning ahead and making strategic choices, you’ll return refreshed—ready to take your blog and business to the next level. Happy travels, my friend. Until next time, stay creative. Links Mentioned in the Episode: 97 | Finding Your Rhythm with Content Creation Batching FUEL Blog Coaching is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review") 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW I am honored to share a new Blogging Creative on Fire each week on the podcast to bring you inspiration, behind-the-scenes secrets, and quality tips. I hope it is truly helpful for you. One of the best ways you can bless me in return is to subscribe to the show and leave a review. By subscribing, you allow each episode to be downloaded straight to your phone which helps the download numbers and ensures you never miss an episode. And when you leave a review, you help show others the value of what we provide! You can GO HERE to subscribe and review (On mobile, scroll down past the episodes to "Ratings & Reviews" section, tap the stars, then scroll down to "Write a Review")