Creatives On Fire® | How to Make Money Online Business Advice

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")

is week on Creatives on Fire, we're diving into something that can absolutely transform your blogging and content creation journey—meeting other creators in person! If you've ever felt stuck, uninspired, or alone in your blogging business, this episode is for you. And if you're local to the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you're in luck because we have an amazing in-person blogger meetup coming soon! Let's talk about why meeting other bloggers face-to-face is one of the best things you can do for your business and how you can join us in North Texas for an unforgettable experience. The Power of In-Person Blogger Meetups I sat down with my friend Karianne Wood of Thistlewood Farms to chat about how stepping outside of your comfort zone and meeting other bloggers can be a game-changer for your business. Why It Matters: Nobody understands what we do like other creators. You leave feeling inspired and motivated to keep going. You gain new strategies and insider tips that can help you grow. You build real friendships and collaborations that last for years. How These Relationships Can Impact Your Business When you meet people face-to-face, something shifts. You get to: Build a "Phone-a-Friend" Network – Have go-to people for blogging, Instagram, YouTube, and more. Create Collaboration Opportunities – Work on blog posts, social media content, or even go live together. Capture Content – Get the best photo ops and behind-the-scenes footage with fellow creators. Karianne shared how some of her closest business friendships started at meetups like this. These relationships have helped her scale her business, navigate changes in the industry, and stay motivated year after year. If you're feeling alone in your blogging journey—this is the solution! DFW Blogger Meetup Details—Join Us! Ready to take your blog to the next level and connect with other creators in person? Where: Fairview Farmers, McKinney, Texas When: Thursday, March 6th at 9:30 AM RSVP: Link in the show notes Why You Should Come: Learn from other bloggers & share ideas Gain insider tips on what's working now Capture incredible content in a gorgeous, Instagram-worthy location Enjoy an amazing breakfast (seriously, their omelets come with flowers) Build lasting friendships that will support your blogging journey If You're Nervous About Coming… Karianne says, "I'll save you a seat right next to me!" If you're hesitant about walking into a room full of people you don't know, don't be! This is a warm, welcoming, and fun event where you'll meet creators who understand your business struggles and want to support you. "In this influencer world, no one should be an island. You have to do it with other people." – Karianne Wood So, grab a coffee, push yourself to step outside your comfort zone, and join us for an unforgettable morning of networking, learning, and inspiration! RSVP Now: [Link in Show Notes] I can't wait to see you there! Until next time, stay creative! Links Mentioned in the Episode: Local DFW, TX Blogger Meetup Details KariAnne Wood of Thistlewood Farms 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")

Facebook recently announced that it will no longer store live video content indefinitely. Any new live videos will only be available for replay, download, or sharing for 30 days before being automatically deleted. If you have years' worth of live video content, you'll need to take action to save it before it's gone for good. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode184 Why Facebook Is Removing Live Videos So why is Facebook making this change? While they haven't provided an official reason, it's likely tied to server space, platform updates, and a shift toward short-form video content like Reels. This is a crucial reminder that we are all operating on borrowed real estate when we create content on social media. Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other platforms own the content we post, and they can change policies at any time. That's why having a strategy to back up and repurpose content is essential for long-term success. Your Options for Saving Facebook Live Videos Facebook is providing three main options once you receive a notification about your live video content: Download immediately – Save videos directly to your device. Archive for 90 days – Keep access to your videos temporarily before making a final decision. Postpone deletion for six months – Get extra time to manage and transfer your content. How to Download Your Facebook Live Videos If you want to manually save your videos, follow these steps: Go to Meta Business Suite at business.facebook.com. Navigate to Content and filter by Live Videos only. Click the three dots next to a video and select Download (SD or HD). For larger libraries, you may need external storage solutions like: Google Drive (free up to a certain limit) Dropbox (paid option) Amazon Photos (free for a limited amount of storage) An external hard drive for offline backup Automating the Process with Repurpose.io If downloading videos one by one sounds overwhelming, a third-party automation tool like Repurpose.io can do it for you. This tool: ✅ Automatically transfers Facebook Live videos to a storage location like Google Drive ✅ Removes watermarks for easy repurposing ✅ Allows you to republish content on other platforms Check out Repurpose.io here. What About Facebook Groups and Membership Content? If your Facebook Live videos are in private groups or memberships, you have additional considerations. Since these videos might be borrowed content from guest creators, make sure you: Download videos using a URL-grabbing tool (linked in show notes) Upload them to YouTube as unlisted videos Share the private playlist link with your members What Does This Mean for Video Creators? One big question remains: Will this impact Facebook video ad revenue? Previously, older videos could continue to generate ad income for creators. Now, without replays beyond 30 days, some creators may see a dip in revenue. Moving forward, you might consider: 📌 Going live on YouTube – YouTube's watch hours and engagement make it an appealing alternative 📌 Streaming with third-party software like Zoom, Streamyard, or Restream 📌 Reposting pre-recorded content instead of relying on live videos Final Thoughts Facebook's decision to remove live videos may feel overwhelming, but you have plenty of time and options to protect your content. Take action now to secure your videos, explore new live-streaming strategies, and continue engaging with your audience. 🚀 Join the Conversation: How do you plan to adapt your live video strategy? Let me know in the comments! 📌 Bonus for Local Bloggers! If you're near Dallas-Fort Worth, join us for a blogger meetup on March 6th at Fairview Farmers in McKinney, TX. Grab your spot here. Until next time, stay creative! 🎨✨ Links Mentioned in the Episode: Repurpose Videos Automatically https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/repurpose Streaming Software https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/streamyard Streaming Software https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/restream Download FB Videos Facebook Video Downloader Download Private FB Videos Private Group FB Video Downloader FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today Local DFW, TX Blogger Meetup Details 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 Until next time, stay creative! 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")

"5 Must-Try Blog Strategies to Stay Ahead in 2025" Blogging has changed dramatically in recent years, and staying ahead means evolving with it. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refresh your approach, these five actionable strategy shifts will help your blog thrive in 2025. Let's dive in! https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode183 1. Revamp Your Opening Paragraphs Your blog's first paragraph should engage your readers like never before. Write as if you're having a real-time chat with them—use humor, heart, or stats to hook their attention. This conversational style will create a welcoming space for your readers to feel at home and keep coming back. 2. Shorter, Value-Packed Posts Gone are the days of stuffing your posts with unnecessary fluff. Focus on providing concise, impactful content that directly serves your readers. Skip the overused FAQs and filler paragraphs. Make every word count, so your audience gets straight to the value. 3. Add a Micro About Section Most visitors land on a single blog post rather than your homepage. Include a reusable block within each post—a quick "About This Blog" paragraph that shares who you are, who the blog is for, and how it solves their problems. This subtle introduction can make a lasting impression on new visitors. 4. Master Short, Hooky Titles Blog titles should be irresistible while still optimized for SEO. Work on combining hooks with keywords for titles that stand out in a crowded space. Bonus tip: Add a P.S. section at the end of each post to re-engage readers and naturally integrate additional keywords. 5. Double Down on CTAs Every blog post should include two calls to action: one for a freebie and one for a paid offer. Your freebies might be email signups or downloadable resources, while paid offers could include memberships, digital products, or affiliate links. Each post should act as a "soldier" working to generate income and grow your audience. Fuel Your Blog's Growth If you're ready to implement these strategies and connect with a community of like-minded bloggers, join my group, Fuel! This is your opportunity to collaborate, share insights, and accelerate your blog's success in 2025. 👉 Learn More About Fuel Here Let's make this the year your blog thrives like never before. Until next time, stay creative, my friend! Links Mentioned in the Episode: FUEL Mastermind is HERE Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today Local DFW, TX Blogger Meetup Details 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 Until next time, stay creative! 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")

Hey there, my friend! Welcome back to Creatives on Fire, the podcast designed to help content creators like you grow your audience and income. This week, we're diving deep into a powerful mindset shift—what happens when quitting is not an option? https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode182 Imagine this: You step off a ship, feeling the solid ground beneath your feet. Then your leader turns to you and says, "Burn the boats." That's exactly what historical leaders like Julius Caesar, Alexander the Great, and Cortez told their men. They had no Plan B—only victory or defeat. And guess what? They chose to succeed. Now, let's talk about your business. What if quitting wasn't an option? What if there was no backup plan? How would that change the way you approach blogging? Why Having No Plan B Can Change Everything When we give ourselves a safety net, we often take it. If blogging gets hard, we say, "Well, I can always go back to _______." But what if you removed the escape route? What if you committed, wholeheartedly, to making your blog your primary business? If you're ready to push forward and make blogging work for you, it comes down to three key things: ✔ Conviction – Believing in your blog's purpose ✔ Commitment – Showing up consistently ✔ Conversion – Turning content into income Let's break them down. 1. Conviction: Believe in Your Blog's Purpose The foundation of your success starts with believing that blogging is the way to build your business. It's your home base. Every piece of content—your social media, emails, videos—should lead back to your blog. 🚩 Climb the hill, plant your flag, and claim your niche. If you're confused about your blog's direction, so is your audience. Get crystal clear on who you serve, what you provide, and why it matters. ✔ Who is your audience? ✔ What transformation does your content provide? ✔ What makes your blog unique? 👉 Action Step: Write down your blog's mission statement and post it somewhere visible. Let it be your guiding light. 2. Commitment: Show Up, Even When You Don't Feel Like It Blogging isn't always fun. Unlike social media, where you get instant feedback (likes, comments, and shares), blogging requires patience. The payoff comes weeks, months, even years later. That's why consistency is everything. Your readers (and Google!) need to know they can count on you. 📌 Set Your Blog's Content Schedule How often will you post? Once a week? Twice a month? Whatever you decide, stick with it. 📧 Tell Your Audience Your Commitment Let your email subscribers know how often they can expect new content from you. This holds you accountable and builds trust. ✔ Start Your Blog Today If you haven't started a blog yet, stop waiting! I've created a free guide to help you get started. Grab it here: 👉 creativesonfirepodcast.com/start 3. Conversion: Is Your Content Actually Making You Money? Are your blog posts working for you? Are they bringing in traffic, leads, and income? 🌟 Check Your Numbers Don't just hope your blog is growing. Look at your analytics. What's driving traffic? Which posts convert readers into email subscribers and buyers? 🎯 Strengthen Your Brand Identity A strong, clear brand builds trust. And trust leads to sales. If your blog feels scattered, it's time to refine your focus. 💰 Make Sure Every Blog Post Includes a Call-to-Action (CTA) Every blog post should include: ✔ A freebie opt-in (email list growth) ✔ A paid offer (product, affiliate link, or service) If your blog posts aren't bringing in revenue, they aren't working as hard as they should be. 👉 Action Step: Add a freebie opt-in and a paid offer to your latest blog post. Fuel Your Business in 2025 If you're serious about turning your blog into a profitable business, Fuel is the place to be. 🔥 Fuel is my premium coaching group designed to help bloggers stay focused, grow faster, and make more money. Inside Fuel, you'll get: ✔ Live coaching calls with me ✔ Expert guest trainings ✔ Personalized strategies for your blog ✔ A supportive community to keep you accountable Doors are open NOW! Join us before we close enrollment: 👉 creativesonfirepodcast.com/fuel Burn the Boats & Blog Like You Mean It Blogging isn't an overnight success game. It takes conviction, commitment, and conversion to make it work. But when you go all in, without a Plan B, your mindset shifts. You stop dabbling and start treating it like a real business. So, are you ready to burn the boats and make blogging your future? If so, I'm here to cheer you on every step of the way. What's one thing you're committing to for your blog this year? Links Mentioned in the Episode: 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today Local DFW, TX Blogger Meetup Details 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") FUEL Mastermind is HERE Until next time, stay creative! 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 dreamed of turning your craft into a full-time income, this episode of Creatives on Fire is for you! I sat down with my dear friend Julie Oxendine, the powerhouse behind Julie's Wreath Boutique, to talk about how she built a thriving creative business across multiple platforms. From a humble kitchen table to a full-scale social media empire, Julie has mastered the art of selling, teaching, and growing an engaged audience. https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode181 From Hobby to Thriving Business Julie started her wreath-making business nine and a half years ago with no prior experience in social media or online selling. After watching a YouTube video of someone selling wreaths on Etsy, she thought, "I can do that!"—and she did. Her first craft show resulted in $800 in sales, proving there was demand for her beautiful handmade creations. However, by the end of her first three months, she realized she had only profited $500 after expenses. That was the turning point. Instead of giving up, Julie prayed for guidance and set a clear intention: If this business isn't going to change my family's life, I can't do it. That same day, everything started to shift. A blogger discovered her viral sunflower wreath design and featured it on Good Housekeeping, leading to an explosion of traffic to her Etsy shop and social media pages. The Power of Social Media for Creators Julie credits social media with taking her business from a side hustle to a full-time income. She started with Facebook and Etsy, growing her audience organically by engaging with her followers and sharing content consistently. In 2017, she expanded to YouTube, where she quickly monetized her channel and began seeing real profits. Key social media strategies that fueled Julie's growth:Consistent Posting: She schedules posts for Facebook and Instagram using Meta Business Suite to maintain a steady presence. Engagement Over Selling: Instead of constantly pushing sales, she shares valuable, engaging content that her audience wants to interact with. Leveraging Viral Content: She repurposes her most popular reels, tutorials, and projects across different platforms, making each post work harder for her. Multi-Platform Strategy: She now creates content for Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, ensuring she reaches her audience wherever they are. Today, Julie has over 2 million followers across platforms and is a sought-after social media business coach for creatives looking to scale their businesses. Monetization: Making Money Beyond Handmade Products Julie quickly realized that selling handmade products alone would cap her income. To scale her earnings, she expanded into digital products, coaching, and brand partnerships. Here's how she diversified her revenue streams: Selling Digital Products: She created video tutorials that customers can purchase, allowing her to earn without physically making wreaths. Subscription Groups: She launched Julie's Crafting Boutique for hobbyists and Julie's Biz Boutique for creative entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. Brand Collaborations: She's worked with Hobby Lobby, Cricut, Amazon, and other major brands, turning her expertise into high-value partnerships. YouTube Monetization: Her tutorials generate ad revenue, creating passive income from content she made years ago. Affiliate Marketing: She recommends tools and materials she loves, earning commissions on sales through her links. Growing an Email List for Long-Term Success One of Julie's biggest regrets? Not starting her email list sooner! Social media platforms can change their algorithms or even disappear, but an email list is yours to control. Julie grew her email list by: Offering Freebies (like a free wreath tutorial) in exchange for email signups. Running Exclusive Giveaways only for email subscribers. Consistently Providing Value so her subscribers look forward to opening her emails. Now, whenever she needs to promote something, she has a direct line to her most engaged fans—no algorithm required. Advice for New Creators Julie's top piece of advice for those just starting out? Believe that you can do it. She started as a stay-at-home mom with no business experience, no audience, and no clue where to begin. Now, she has multiple income streams, brand deals, and the ability to support her family without selling a single wreath. "If you had told me 10 years ago I'd be working with Hobby Lobby, YouTube, and major brands, I would have laughed. But here we are. If I can do it, so can you." – Julie Oxendine Want to Learn From Julie? If you're a creative business owner looking to grow your brand and monetize your craft, check out Julie's coaching programs: Julie's Crafting Boutique – Learn to create stunning DIY wreaths. Julie's Biz Boutique – Get insider business tips and strategies to scale your creative brand. You can also follow Julie online: YouTube: Julie's Wreath Boutique Instagram & Facebook: @JuliesWreathBoutique TikTok & Pinterest: @JuliesWreathBoutique Julie's journey is proof that with hard work, consistency, and smart strategies, you can turn your creative passion into a profitable, sustainable business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, take her advice—work smarter, not harder, and don't be afraid to take that first step. Let us know in the comments—What's your biggest takeaway from Julie's story? Links Mentioned in the Episode: 2025 Content Planner for Content Creators Free Guide: Start Your Blog Today Local DFW, TX Blogger Meetup Details 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") FUEL Mastermind is HERE Until next time, stay creative! 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")