The Long Game Podcast with Sandra Scaiano

In today’s world, it’s never been easier to implement a new idea, start a new venture, or build up a new business. But it’s also never been more intimidating. There are countless resources telling you how something should be done, and the market can seem incredibly saturated with so many competitors, ads, experts, and millions of content creators. It’s easy to get overwhelmed. If intimidation and fear are getting to you, this episode is going to be your boost of encouragement.Our guest is Ben Albert. Ben was a sales executive when the pandemic hit, and, like millions of other professionals, he was let go. Today, he shares how this moment was his rock bottom and from this point of zero, he became his own hero. It took a lot of work, creativity, and networking, but in just one year, he was able to launch and grow his marketing company, Balbert Marketing LLC. He also became the curator of the Real Business Connections Network, where he hosts five podcasts.“Rock bottom was such a blessing in disguise.” - Ben AlbertInsights from Ben’s journey:How his long-game knowledge helped him when he decided to start his business.What collaborative partnerships look like and how they help your business.The necessity of trying something different, new, and creative.Ben says there’s no such thing as a key to success. Instead, it's a combination lock, and we each have our own unique combination. Each of us has our own idea or definition of success, and we each have our own path to get there.“What is your creative spark? And how can you bring someone in with you?” - Ben AlbertTune in to this episode for a dose of inspiration and practical insights as we explore Ben’s remarkable journey from zero to hero.Connect with Ben:WebsiteFacebookLinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I love and have embraced the term “intentionally selfish” since I first heard it. To be intentionally selfish is to be unapologetic for raising yourself up. It is to give yourself what you need to heal, and to let go of all the shame from the experiences you went through. This episode is all about being “intentionally selfish.” It’s a gift to yourself, an encouragement to move you further in your healing journey, and a discovery of your goals.My guest, Naketa Ren Thigpen, is breaking down the importance of being intentionally selfish. She’s a Balance and Relationship advisor, combining the tenants of licensed clinical social work, psychotherapy, trauma work, metaphysics, and coaching. She’s the CEO of personal development company, ThigPro Balance and a podcast host. Also the author of Selfish: Permission to Pause, Live, Love and Laugh Your Way to Joy.“I’m rebellious by nature. It’s just in my core. You tell me ‘We have to go down this block,’ and I’ll follow you down the block the first time. But I’m literally doing it so I can see the shortcuts that I can do the second time.” – Naketa Ren ThigpenTopics discussed in this episode: We need to make the decision for ourselves that we’ve had enough and need to change and heal. We can either “stay in the box” or “break the box”. We need to choose what we would do. Do not minimize the pain and experiences you went through just because it’s not worse than what other people have gone through. “The long game is knowing how to play it, but also finding out your unique shortcuts and ways so you can actually win the game you’re trying to play.” – Naketa Ren ThigpenNaketa shares her story, how a childhood experience impacted her, needing to learn to let go of a burden that she wasn’t supposed to bear, and how to deal with the shame that went with the experience.She also breaks down G.I.F.T. which stands for gratitude, imagine, forgiveness, and take action. She describes this process of healing as a gift we give to ourselves. Naketa guides us through each letter and how we can apply them.If you want to work with Naketa, consider the Intentionally Selfish Suite. It is a Personal Development Incubator deliberately designed to equip and certify women entrepreneurs as they evolve, arrive, and expand the version of themselves that’s unchained, free, unconquerable, and spacious enough to create work/life that serves their highest good.This episode is jam-packed with Naketa’s wealth of knowledge, words of wisdom, life lessons, and relatable experiences. Listen to the full episode to hear everything she shares.Links from Today’s Episode:ThigPro WebsiteNaketa Ren Thigpen LinkedInBalance Boldly Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LinkedIn is one of the top social platforms for entrepreneurs and professionals. We know we need to get into it, but it can be intimidating because it also reflects on our professional profile. But what if getting started on LinkedIn doesn’t have to be so intimidating? In this episode, we’ll learn how to get started, transitioned, and consistent on LinkedIn. “LinkedIn is a hard platform… It’s also one of the kindest networks.” - Donna SerdulaTo help us navigate the world of LinkedIn, we have Donna Serdula joining us today. In 2009, Donna walked away from her successful sales career and founded Vision Board Media and LinkedIn-Makeover.com. Her mission is to help people realize their internet identity and shape one that makes an impact and leads to opportunity. Her book, LinkedIn Profile Optimization for Dummies helps professionals get started on the platform.Donna has built the SOAR Framework. This gets you straight to connecting and engaging on LinkedIn. Start by building a STRATEGY—decide why you’re using LinkedIn, identify your target audience, and develop your brand. Then OPTIMIZE your profile and posts so that the right people will find you. AMPLIFY your brand and message through a strong network. Then it’s time to RELATE and build your network on LinkedIn so that what you post will actually be heard.Other topics discussed in this episode include: Practical strategies to build up your network Getting started on LinkedIn Engagement strategies to curate the feed you want  “LinkedIn wants the feed to be the people you know talking about the things you care about.” - Donna SerdulaOne common perception about LinkedIn is that it’s a platform where you need to be buttoned up and with a stiff upper lip, and that was true—until five years ago. You can speak in your voice and let your personality show in a way that’s true to your brand.LinkedIn, like other platforms, has an algorithm that’s continuously changing. Sometimes, it’s short posts with photos that do well. Other times, it’s the long-form document posts. The key to maximizing your reach on this platform isn’t to catch the algorithm, it’s to build a large network and post quality, engaging and consistent posts. For more information and practical tips on getting started on LinkedIn, listen to the full episode, and check out the resources Donna shares on her website.Connect with Donna Serdula:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInYouTubeTwitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paid advertisements are one of the most effective ways to market your product or service and reach your ideal clients—if done right. However, the nuances of each social media platform's ad manager can feel like entering a new, foreign world. In this episode, we cover multiple Facebook ads strategies with our guest, Laura Ball.Laura works with 6 to 7-figure clients who sell directly to consumers using the power of paid traffic. She specializes in live launches, but also works with clients around brand awareness, lead generation, and evergreen funnels.Laura talks about: Demystifying Facebook ads management Essentials before hiring a Facebook ads manager Factors for a successful Facebook ad campaign  “Ads amplify what you are already doing.” - Laura BallLaura shares that a key to successful ads is to run tests and fine-tune them. There’s no overnight success in running ads. It’s important to present yourself and effectively communicate who you are so that you can attract the right clients.Listen in as we unravel the secrets of Facebook ads. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just stepping into the advertising arena, this episode promises valuable insights to elevate your marketing game.Connect with Laura Ball:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When running a business, it should be expected that sometimes things will go south, and we’ll have to put out fires. Sometimes these situations can be solved in a day with a phone call, but sometimes they can potentially end your business. That’s what happened with our guest today when her Stripe account was hacked.Shannon Mattern is the founder of the Web Designer Academy where she teaches web designers how to create profitable, sustainable, freelance web design businesses. She also hosts the Profitable Web Designer Podcast where she shares insights and strategies for web design professionals.In this episode, Shannon talks about her recent experience and relates it to these business lessons: Be transparent and communicate with your clients In the middle of a challenge, look for rational and uninvolved perspectives There’s more than one way to do things  “There's multiple ways to handle any situation. Why not give myself the opportunity to find out all of them and then make a decision with way more information than just what's in my head or I can Google.” - Shannon MatternToday’s show highlights the importance of relationships and networks in the business world. Having the right people around you, especially during challenging times, can make a world of difference. But they can only help you to the extent that you’re asking for help. If you don’t share your challenges, the right people who can help you overcome them won’t come. In the world of business, it’s necessary to have the ability to navigate adversity with resilience, transparency, and with the support of your network. Listen in as we explore the lessons learned from Shannon's experience.Connect with Shannon Mattern:WebsiteInstagramLinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Building a robust multi-faceted business is no easy task, not even for the most seasoned entrepreneur. Creating a business that seamlessly incorporates all of your passions while providing a rewarding and fulfilling experience at the same time is the ultimate goal for many people building a business. Dr. Kristy Sumner has successfully combined her passion for historical stories and paranormal into two businesses: Soul Sisters Paranormal, and The Historic Scott County Jail Museum. The work that she does is totally fascinating to me, but maybe paranormal isn’t your jam and that’s okay. What stands out the most about Kristy is the way she’s created two businesses that flow so well together that allow her to live the life she finds most fulfilling. “If you look at us, just from the outside, it looks like we have a very robust company, but it’s just the two of us.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner Key areas we’re highlighting in this episode  Kristy’s first overnight stay in a haunted penitentiary, developing passion and excitement  Learning the technical skills it takes to produce the content they want to share  How a collaboration turned into a reopening of a historical location with paranormal research   Martin Yan, a chef and food writer says, “when you enjoy what you do, work becomes play.” For Kristy, she’s allowed herself to lean into her passions for fun, play, and discovery in the presence of her friends. She’s turned a corporate background and life as a college professor into a life that is filled with excitement. The excitement of researching historical stories and investigating paranormal activity is one aspect of it, but she’s also leaning into solving problems and learning new skills that allow her to build something meaningful. “We wanted to start out with a bang and really show people that we are legitimate in what we're doing.” -Dr. Kristy Sumner Mentioned in this episode: Lizzie Borden Story Connect with Dr. Kristy Sumner Soul Sisters Paranormal Website Historic Scott County Jail Website  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As business owners who want to see our business grow, we want to find ways to be innovative and set ourselves apart from the competition. Whether it’s in our messaging, our products, our processes, or our marketing, we’re constantly looking for ways to be different. Being innovative also positions us as an industry leader and as a brand that’s in touch with our customers' needs. It helps separate us from the pack when our market feels oversaturated.“Trailblazing is pushing the idea further or taking it to a new audience.” -Sandra ScaianoIn this episode, Sandra discusses ways we can spark innovation in our business and how to find creative ways to grow.Four ways to bring innovation to your business: Make it normal to think creatively Start with the components of your offer Ask what your strengths are Look to collaborate “Whether it's a small tweak or a big breakthrough, now is the time to be innovating.” - Sandra ScaianoWhen uncertainty strikes or there’s a need for fresh ideas, we need to ask ourselves these questions: What makes us different? What innovation can we bring to the table? This mindset sets us up for growth, towards innovation, reimagined business models, and a reinvented customer experience. Whether it's a minor tweak or a groundbreaking revelation, remember, the time to innovate is now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Long Game, we dive deep into the world of online courses and memberships. If you're a course developer, you've likely asked “How can I make my course better?” We all want to produce content and materials that are effective and transformational. We want to provide value and help people, and this episode will give you insight on how to do just that.“We want to make a bigger impact because of course, we want to help as many people as we can.” - Lesley ClavijoWe’re joined by Lesley Clavijo, an instructional designer who believes that teaching is more than just the transformation of information, it's about the entire learner's experience. She helps course creators elevate their programs so that their students get results so good that they can’t help but tell everyone about their results.Three points discussed in this episode are: What makes a course successful Features in courses that improve the learning experience Marketing inside your course Lesley introduces us to her recipe for transformational courses, the "Premium Program Pie."This pie has six essential ingredients: intentional, interactive, inclusive, intuitive, inspirational, and infinite. By incorporating these elements, your course can go beyond just being transactional. Having these ingredients will deliver better results, create more impact, and be transformative.“Your course is never done. You're going to continuously improve your course over time.” - Lesley ClavijoReady to transform your course into an unforgettable journey of growth and learning? Listen to the full episode to start your transformational journey today. Connect with Lesley Clavijo:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves wearing many hats and juggling multiple tasks and projects at the same time. Some tasks demand our attention daily, weekly or monthly, like invoicing, communication, or client work. Meanwhile, we have projects that can significantly impact our businesses, the ones we need to prioritize to grow. Yet, with our plates always full, it can be a tricky balancing act. Eventually, we get stuck in a rut, and we experience a significant setback.Today, we talk about how we can get out of a rut and explore how we can stay inspired and motivated on our long game journey toward achieving our goals.“Your goals can’t all happen in one day, but you do have to continually work at it.” -Sandra ScaianoSome practical action steps shared in this episode are: Define your why Have a clear goal Visualize success Lean into your network  “Motivation comes from action, and action can be the smallest step.” -Sandra ScaianoIn entrepreneurship, maintaining motivation and constantly moving forward are needed for long-term success. Even after significant setbacks, we can choose to get back our drive. Remember, it's not just about staying busy. It's about staying inspired and always moving forward.Now, let's reignite that spark of motivation and keep pushing forward on your journey. Your long game begins now. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Long Game, we’re talking about the different ways to practice inclusive business practices with Dr. Ramona Lawrence. We’ll be talking about messaging and learning what diversity really is, how it’s a two-way process to reach it, and how we can incorporate it into our businesses.“What is my thriving community?... How do I do things to make sure that I do things and I have practices that will help all of them to thrive?” - Dr. Ramona LawrenceDr. Raymona Lawrence is the Founder and CEO of Dr. Raymona H Lawrence Coaching, LLC-A Software/Systems as a Service (SAAS) Agency. Her life's work and heartfelt mission is to help individuals and organizations incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion into their business strategy and systems so they can authentically connect with, recruit, and retain diverse networks of customers and team members. Dr. Lawrence is also a DEI Strategist, Speaker, Coach, and Consultant for network marketers, small business owners, and solopreneurs.In this episode, Dr. Lawrence shares: What diversity really means. Her ROAR framework and how it supports business growth in diverse communities The differences in each of our experiences  “If we've been able to respect differences in people and incorporate them into our systems, then we can create that culture of belonging and where people just feel like that they want to be there.” - Dr. Ramona LawrenceWe’ll share some of the day-to-day experiences and practices we have where we can incorporate different perspectives so that we can create systems and environments that welcome in everybody. Connect with Dr. Ramona Lawrence:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices