The Blogger Genius Podcast

Today's guest on The Blogger Genius Podcast is Danielle Turner from Salt Sanity, a chef and food blogger, who has carved a niche for herself in the world of low sodium cooking. In this episode, Danielle talks about how she wrote and sold her first successful ebook using MiloTreeCart and how she focused it on all the things she wished she knew after her husband's heart attack. For the content of her ebook, she used past blog posts. For the marketing and sales, she used MiloTreeCart. She used the AI created sales pages, the launch calendar with daily marketing tasks, and the MiloTreeCart sales email templates to sell with ease. As a natural over-thinker this strategy worked great for her and she was amazed at the results! Show Notes: MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute call with me Salt Sanity MiloTree Pop-Up App Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify Writing the Ebook You'd Like to Read Adapting to a low sodium diet (after her husband's heart attack) was a challenge. Recognizing this gap of what she didn't know when she was researching low sodium diets, Danielle was inspired to create a digital guide to help those struggling with similar dietary changes. Enter MiloTreeCart, the platform that became her ally in this endeavor. With MiloTreeCart, Danielle leveraged her existing blog content to craft her digital guide, simplifying the process with MiloTreeCart's pre-designed email prompts and AI generated sales pages. Embracing Imperfection and Automation During our conversation, Danielle admits to being an over-thinker, a trait many of us can relate to. MiloTreeCart provided her with a structured roadmap, encouraging her to take action and embrace the concept of "B-minus work." This mindset allowed her to progress and refine her work, automating tasks like email marketing to focus on what she does best—creating content that resonates with her audience. The Food Lover's Guide to Low Sodium Living Danielle's ebook, "The Food Lover's Guide to Low Sodium Living," is a testament to her mission to help people enjoy food while managing their health. The book, a concise yet comprehensive guide of about 58-60 pages, was crafted using a Canva template and initially promoted to her email list. Despite her hesitation to share personal stories, the positive feedback and pre-release interest were affirming. Beyond the Book: Coaching and Diversification As Danielle's mentor, I suggest she could expand her offerings by providing coaching calls and creating new ebooks to upsell to her customers. We also discuss the importance of diversifying income streams, especially in light of traffic fluctuations on her blog. By focusing on her engaged audience and exploring avenues like coaching and workshops, Danielle could further solidify her business. The Takeaway: Overcoming Overthinking Reflecting on our conversation, my biggest takeaway is the universal challenge of overthinking. Danielle's ability to move past this, to do B-minus work, and to confidently engage with her audience is a powerful transformation. It's a reminder that recognizing our value and exploring new income streams can lead to remarkable growth. Join the MiloTree Community If Danielle's story resonates with you and you're curious about how MiloTreeCart can help your business, I invite you to book a 20-minute call with me. Visit milotree.com, and let's discuss your business goals. Remember, we'll soon transition to a monthly subscription, so seize this opportunity! For any questions, reach out to me at jillian@milotree.com. Share this story with a friend who might benefit, and if you could give us five stars on iTunes, it would mean the world. Join me again next week for more insights and stories from the Blogger Genius podcast. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: Unleashing the Power of Selling Ebooks: Your Gateway to a Digital Empire with Jillian Leslie Secret Truths About Selling – Part 1 (Why Is It So Uncomfortable?) with Jillian Leslie Capitalize on Your “Vibe,” Use It To Grow Your Blog with Jillian Leslie MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.

Today I'm sharing a special episode that I recorded based on my conversations with you. I get on calls with bloggers and almost daily. I see where so many of you struggle. In this episode, I'm sharing the five things I recommend you start putting into place now so that you can thrive in the ever-changing landscape of blogging and online business. The Importance of Adaptation in Business The business model for online entrepreneurship has undergone a significant transformation over the last six month. It's no longer just about putting content out there with the right keywords and hoping for the best when it comes to Google. Biggest takeaway of the episode: Today, it's about growing an engaged audience and effectively selling to them. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute call with me Catch My Party MiloTree Pop-Up App Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify Five Key Tips for Online Business Success With the headwinds bloggers are facing, such as the rise of AI, updates to Google's algorithm, and a decline in revenue from traditional sources like display ads and affiliate marketing things can feel daunting. But with the right approach, they can be overcome. So here are the five things I recommend you start putting into place to find financial success as a blogger and online entrepreneur. Define Your Niche The first step to success is defining your niche. It's essential to narrow down your focus to communicate clearly the problem you solve. This specificity helps attract the right audience who are looking for exactly what you have to offer. Remember, when you try to appeal to everyone, you often connect with no one. Develop a Strong Personal Brand Your personal brand, or as I like to call it, your "vibe," is what sets you apart in a crowded market. It's about showing up as a human, connecting with your audience on a personal level, and expressing what makes you unique within your niche. Your authenticity is your greatest asset. Diversify Your Traffic Sources Relying solely on Google for traffic is a risky strategy. Diversifying your traffic sources can protect you against algorithm changes and other uncertainties. Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are not just for sharing content; they're powerful tools for driving traffic and building your personal brand. Prioritize Your Email List Your email list is a goldmine. It's the key to developing deep relationships with your true fans and driving sales. Unlike social media followers, you own your email list, and it allows you to communicate directly with your audience without the interference of algorithms. Choose Easy Tech Tools In the world of online business, technology can be both a blessing and a curse. While there are countless tools out there promising to make your life easier, it's important to choose simple and effective solutions. Avoid expensive and complicated platforms that can lead to frustration and wasted resources. Updates on MiloTree and MiloTreeCart and MiloTreeFreebies I'm thrilled to share some updates on MiloTree and MiloTree Cart. We're transitioning MiloTree Cart to a more traditional subscription model, which will provide even more value to our users. Additionally, we're introducing MiloTreeFreebies, a new product designed to help creators like you grow your email lists efficiently. The Journey of Online Business I want to remind you that online business is a journey, complete with its ups and downs. It's a path of continuous learning and adaptation. I'm here to support you every step of the way, and I invite you to reach out with your feedback and questions. Together, we can navigate the ever-changing digital landscape and achieve our entrepreneurial goals. Thank you for joining me on this adventure. Remember, the key to success is staying informed, being adaptable, and always striving to connect with your audience on a deeper level. Let's keep the conversation going and build our online empires with confidence and creativity. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: 2024 SEO Shifts: Strategies for Success Today with Lily Ray Capitalize on Your “Vibe,” Use It To Grow Your Blog with Jillian Leslie Boost Your Blog Pageviews with Pinterest Now with Kayla Watkins MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.  

What happens when your blog takes a major traffic hit after years of blogging and steady growth? I'm Jillian Leslie, host of The Blogger Genius Podcast. I sast down with Nell Foster from Joy Us Garden to talk about this. Nell is a blogger, YouTuber, author, and gardener with over 50 years of experience with plants. In my interview with Nell, we cover everything from how she stumbled into blogging, grew her business, grew her YouTube subscribers, and now is pivoting her business after getting impacted by Google algorithm updates and after losing 90% of her traffic. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Sales Software Book Your FREE 20-Minute Strategy Call Joy Us Garden Blog Post Checklist FREEBIE MiloTree Pop-Up App Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify The Seed of an Idea: Nell's Journey Begins Nell's career started with selling gardening accessories. As the digital world evolved, she expanded into blogging and creating YouTube content, amassing over 135,000 YouTube subscribers. Overcoming Digital Challenges Nell discusses a significant setback when a Google algorithm update drastically reduced her blog's traffic. Instead of giving up, she's diversified her income by selling digital products like ebooks (which you can now write easily with ChatGPT), demonstrating the importance of adaptability in the online world. Diversifying Income Streams Nell has developed multiple income streams, including ad revenue, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing. She also sells digital products and focuses on business growth, ensuring her business's sustainability. Expanding Monetization Strategies Nell talks about her book launch for beginner gardeners and her interest in new monetization methods, such as starting a membership site and converting workshop content into ebooks she's selling with MiloTreeCart. I encouraged her to use her online presence and expertise to boost sales through her email list, YouTube channel, and blog. Building a Community and Engagement Nell is dedicated to growing her email list which is currently over 14,000 subscribers and engaging with her audience through weekly newsletters and social media. She emphasizes community building and drives traffic to her blog and YouTube channel with strategic content. Her team, including virtual assistants and content contributors, is essential in developing her business with new workshops and book projects. Conclusion: Nell's story highlights the dynamic nature of online business and the importance of being flexible and resilient. Her journey offers inspiration for anyone looking to establish or grow their digital presence. Keep an eye out for more stories and tips from online entrepreneurs on The Blogger Genius Podcast. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: 2024 SEO Shifts: Strategies for Success Today with Lily Ray Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! with Steve Wiideman Boost Your Blog Pageviews with Pinterest Now with Kayla Watkins MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. Mil

Today I'm diving deep into the ever-evolving landscape of SEO and content creation. I'm thrilled to share with you a treasure trove of insights from my recent conversation with SEO expert and DJ, Lily Ray. The Quest for Diverse Income Streams Let's first talk about diversifying your income streams. Are you still tethered to traditional monetization methods like ads and affiliate links? It's time to chart a new course with MiloTreeCart. With MiloTreeCart, you can sell unlimited memberships, digital downloads, workshops, coaching, and mini-courses in a snap. Our AI sales pages are a game-changer, and I'm here to guide you through crafting your personalized digital product strategy. Book a free 20-minute Zoom call with me at milotree.com and prepare to be amazed. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Sales Software Book Your FREE 20-Minute Strategy Call Lily Ray Blog Post Checklist FREEBIE MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify The SEO Landscape: Decoding Google's Algorithm Updates In this episode, we delve into the recent Google algorithm updates that have sent shockwaves through the blogging community. Lily Ray, a seasoned SEO strategist, sheds light on what Google is seeking and how to adapt to these changes. We discuss the importance of expanding your digital footprint, embracing platforms like YouTube, and creating content that resonates with your audience and Google's algorithms. Deciphering Google's Current Mindset Google's recent updates, particularly the Helpful Content Update. (HCU), have targeted specific types of content, emphasizing expertise, authority, and trust. Lily emphasizes the importance of understanding that these cycles of updates are not new and that recovery from such hits can take time. She encourages publishers to look beyond SEO and consider building a brand that engages with audiences across various platforms. The Plight of Niche Bloggers The impact of Google's updates on niche bloggers can be devastating, as seen with a Trader Joe's enthusiast who lost significant traffic overnight. Lily advises affected bloggers to diversify their content and presence, such as starting a YouTube channel, lean into food blogging, or exploring other social media platforms like Pinterest for traffic. This approach can help break free from the patterns that led to being grouped with negatively impacted sites. Embracing AI in Content Creation The rise of AI in content creation presents both opportunities and challenges. Lily cautions against mass auto-generating content, which goes against Google's guidelines. Instead, she suggests using AI tools judiciously to enhance the content creation process while maintaining originality and value. Final Thoughts and Resources As we conclude our interview, I invite you to revisit the basics with my updated blog post checklist, designed to ensure your posts are thorough and engaging. Download it at milotree.com/blogpostchecklist and continue building the blog and business of your dreams. Join me on this adventure as we navigate the tides of SEO, learn from the experts, and embrace new strategies to thrive in the digital world. Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration on the Blogger Genius podcast. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! with Steve Wiideman How to Make Money Blogging in 2024 (New Trends) with Jillian Leslie Boost Your Blog Pageviews with Pinterest Now with Kayla Watkins MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.

As the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast, I've had the unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of building an online business. It's a journey filled with excitement and potential, but it's not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles I've faced, and I know many of you can relate to, is managing stress and maintaining a healthy mindset amidst the chaos of entrepreneurship. This is why I'm sharing my top 10 stress relief secrets, which I hope you find helpful in your own life. Show Notes: Book Your FREE 20-Minute Strategy Call MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Sales Software MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify The Reality of Online Business and Blogger Stress In the digital world, stress levels are at an all-time high. We're all constantly grappling with Google algorithm updates, the pressure of competing with AI-generated content, and the overall uncertainties of the digital landscape. It's a lot to handle, and I've felt the weight of it myself. But through my experiences, I've developed these ten habits that have been my anchor in the stormy seas of online business and that's why I recorded this solo episode. Here are my 10 tips to relieve stress as an online entrepreneur and blogger... Tip 1: Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance The first habit I can't emphasize enough is setting clear boundaries between work and personal time. Working from home blurs these lines, and without strict boundaries, burnout is inevitable. I've found that having specific work hours not only boosts my focus but also keeps my motivation levels high. It's about quality, not quantity. Tip 2: Prioritizing Tasks with the Eisenhower Box Next up is prioritizing tasks. The Eisenhower Box has been a game-changer for me. It's a simple yet effective method to differentiate between what's urgent and what's important. This approach has allowed me to concentrate on tasks that truly move the needle for my business, keeping the overwhelming to-do list at bay. Tip 3: Embracing Simple Tech Tools for Productivity In the realm of productivity, I'm all for using simple tech tools. The Pomodoro Technique, paired with straightforward tools like tomato-timer.com, has revolutionized my workflow. I also love Google Docs and Google Sheets even thought they're ugly! It's about finding tools that are easy to use, like MiloTreeCart, that get the job done so you will want to return to over and over again. Tip 4: The Power of Connections Another habit I hold dear is maintaining connections. Whether it's with family, friends, or business peers, nurturing relationships is vital. It's easy to feel isolated in this line of work, so building a network within your niche and leveraging the power of networking is crucial for support and growth. Tip 5: The Importance of Continual Learning I dedicate time each day to continual learning. Staying informed about online business trends and emerging technologies is non-negotiable. It's how I empower myself to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing digital environment. Tip 6: Mindfulness and Gratitude Mindfulness practices, such as expressing gratitude is central to my stress management strategy. Reflecting on blessings are not just good for my soul; they're essential for my mental clarity and well-being. Before I go to bed. Each night, I make a list in my head of all the things I'm grateful for, and it puts everything in perspective for me. Taking this time to slow down and reflect, focusing on gratitude and how far I've come and all the blessings in my life does wonders for me, so I recommend you try that as well. Tip 7: Get Moving If you're not regularly moving your body, I recommend you start. It doesn't have to be intense, but what a difference it's made in my own life, especially for me who spends a lot of hours sitting in front of my computer. It gives me energy, boosts my mood, and gets me out of my head. If you hate exercise, just try walking outside. It honestly does wonders. Tip 7: Embracing Imperfection and Setting Realistic Goals I've learned to embrace imperfection and set realistic goals. Aiming for "B minus" work and celebrating small victories helps maintain a healthy perspective on achievement. It's about progress, not perfection. And those times when I can't reach my goals I try really hard to give myself grace. I don't always achieve it, but I have realized that punishing myself doesn't help and that if I can be gentle, it's amazing how much faster I can pick myself up and try again. Tip 9: The Value of Feedback Seeking feedback from trusted sources is invaluable. It offers fresh perspectives and insights that are crucial for refining business strategies and personal growth. And as you know, I offer free 20 minute calls with bloggers and online entrepreneurs who want to start selling digital products. People tell me they get so much out of these calls because I'm unbiased. I have distance, I am fresh eyes. So, you want people close to you who can see those opportunities. If you're feeling stuck and you're ready to explore digital products. Definitely book a 20 minute call with me. Tip 10: Prioritizing Mental Well-Being I try not to sweat the small stuff. It's incredibly easy to get caught up in those minor setbacks. So what I have found is that when I fixate on these small details, I can't focus on the important goals. So I try to recognize what small in the grand scheme of things like these are the things that when I look back in a year, I won't even remember. I also try to practice letting go. I also keep my eye on the prize, which are the big goals. I think about what the tasks are that can have a real impact on my growth and my success, and I point my north star that way. Sometimes it's just remembering that with a little bit of time, the pain will dull and it will pass. Keeping perspective is key to staying in the game, even when it feels tough. Conclusion In closing, I urge my fellow entrepreneurs to prioritize mental well-being. The tips and habits I've shared are more than just strategies; they're a testament to the resilience and determination needed to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape. Remember to give yourself grace and seek support when needed. By sharing my journey, I hope to empower you to face the challenges of online business with confidence and a healthy mindset. We're in this together, and with the right habits and mindset, we can not only survive but thrive in the world of online entrepreneurship. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: Are Limiting Beliefs and Imposer Syndrome Holding You Back with Maria Conde? How to Overcome Negative Self-Talk with Laura Fuentes Secret Truths About Selling – Part 1 (Why Is It So Uncomfortable?) with Jillian Leslie MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.  

I recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Summer Hammons from the crafting blog, Hammons Nest. In our conversation, we delve into the heart of building a successful online community and the nuances of running a paid membership. Building a Thriving Crafting Community Summer’s journey from a brick-and-mortar store owner to an online community leader is nothing short of inspiring. She launched “The Creative Nest,” her crafting membership that quickly gained traction with its initial 170 members (and has now grown to 300). This remarkable start was a testament to the demand for a space where crafters could connect, learn, and grow together. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart: Digital Product Software Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Hammons Nest Creative Nest Membership MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify The Sisterhood of Crafters One of the most striking aspects of Summer community is the warm vibe it exudes. Members refer to each other as “sisters” and “besties,” creating a warm and supportive environment. This sense of camaraderie has even extended beyond the digital realm, with members exchanging Christmas cards and engaging in other heartfelt activities. It’s a clear indication of the profound connections that can be fostered online. Content Delivery and Member Engagement Summer’s approach to content is both structured and engaging. She provides weekly live sessions, guest master classes, and themed craft tutorials that keep her members excited and involved. By offering a calendar of upcoming events and themes, she ensures that her members always have something to look forward to, which is crucial in maintaining engagement and preventing burnout. The Luxury of Membership and the Value of Community During our conversation, Summer shares her initial concerns about providing enough value and the feedback from those who left the group. She’s come to realize that her membership is considered a luxury, making the creation of a strong community even more important. The return of former members highlights the lasting impact of the connections made within her group. Understanding Member Needs Summer reflects on the revelation that some members feel overwhelmed by the content. It underscores the importance of recognizing the unique needs and expectations of her audience. Tailoring the experience to the members’ pace is a delicate balance that Summer navigates with care. Fostering a Family-Like Atmosphere Creating a community that genuinely cares about each other involves more than just shared interests; it requires a family-like atmosphere. Summer and I discuss the power of conversational interactions and the significance of making personal connections. From video calls to Christmas cards, these personal touches make members feel seen and heard, which is the cornerstone of a strong community. Creating Urgency and Excitement To keep the membership vibrant, Summer employs strategies like offering special bonuses and hosting virtual workshops. These tactics create a sense of urgency and excitement, drawing in new members and keeping the existing ones engaged. The role of VIP members as advocates for the community is also crucial, as they receive exclusive perks and help spread the word about the value of the membership. Embracing Technology and Authenticity A common misconception is that expensive online tools are necessary for success. Summer emphasizes the need to start simple and be adaptable. Our discussion highlights the value of authenticity and genuine connections over polished content. Embracing imperfection and being relatable resonates more with audiences and fosters a more authentic community. Conclusion My conversation with Summer Hammons was a deep dive into the essence of community building and content delivery in the online space. Her successful crafting membership serves as a shining example of how passion, creativity, and a structured approach can lead to a thriving community. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, remember that connection, authenticity, and adaptability are your greatest assets. Join me on the Blogger Genius podcast for more insights and stories from the front lines of blogging and community creation. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: Monetize Your Passion Through a Successful Membership with Summer Hammons Starting a Paid Membership is Easier than You Think: Step-by-Step Guide – Solo Episode with Jillian Leslie Start a Membership and Quit Your 9-5 with Amanda DiNovo MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.

Today I delve into the world of Pinterest marketing. I'm Jillian Leslie, the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast and co-founder of MiloTreeCart, and today I'm excited to share the insights from my recent conversation with Kayla Watkins, a Pinterest marketing expert who specializes in helping bloggers amplify their organic traffic and monetize their content. The Ever-Evolving World of Pinterest In the digital age, staying ahead of the curve is crucial, and for niche bloggers, the recent Google updates have been a game-changer. As someone who's passionate about helping fellow bloggers diversify their income streams, I've seen many turn to selling digital products as a viable option. In fact, I offer a free 20-minute digital product strategy call to help develop a digital product strategy and share best practices for monetization success. During my chat with Kayla, we explore the current trends in Pinterest marketing and how to make the most of this visual platform. Kayla's expertise in crafting effective Pinterest strategies to increase pageviews is invaluable, especially for bloggers in the food, fashion, beauty, and lifestyle categories. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? Kayla Watkins MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Tailwind Canva Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify The Art of Pinterest Optimization Pinterest is more than just a collection of beautiful images; it's a search engine marketing tool that requires a keen understanding of keyword research, content optimization, and pinning strategy. Kayla emphasizes the importance of finding the right keywords so you can create fresh pins to pin to your relevant boards, and updating existing blog content to stay relevant and maximize engagement. She also shares her approach to content scheduling and distribution, recommending tools like Tailwind to schedule pins and Canva for designing eye-catching Pinterest pins. Kayla's advice on pin design, Pinterest boards, pin titles and descriptions is clear: keep them concise, informative, and keyword-rich to resonate with Pinterest users. The Long Game: Building Sustainable Traffic from Pinterest One of the most striking points Kayla makes is the long-term nature of Pinterest traffic. Unlike the instant gratification of platforms like Instagram, Pinterest rewards patience and persistence. It's about trial and error, refining strategies over time, and understanding that significant results may take months to materialize. Kayla also touched on the future of Pinterest, predicting a continued focus on e-commerce. She encourages businesses to align their strategies with user behavior on the platform and to consider Pinterest ads to amplify viral content and evergreen posts. Leveraging Pinterest for Long-Term Stability Pinterest stands out as a social media platform that drives traffic to blogs or websites, offering a level of stability and control that's hard to find elsewhere. Kayla contrasted this with the fleeting nature of success on other social media platforms, highlighting Pinterest's role as a reliable partner in a business's long-term strategy as long as you understand the Pinterest algorithm. Repurposing Blog Content for Maximum Impact and Pageviews During our conversation, Kayla shares a personal success story about repurposing her Instagram content on Threads, the new social media platform by Instagram. By translating her most saved Instagram posts to fit the Threads format, she's seen a significant increase in engagement and email subscribers. This strategy has proven to be a game-changer, allowing her to insert her expertise into relevant conversations and grow her community. Key Takeaways and Next Steps My biggest takeaway from this enlightening discussion is the importance of a comprehensive Pinterest marketing strategy. It's essential to have a defined blog niche, solve problems for your audience, and incorporate relevant keywords into your content. Remember, Pinterest is a marathon, not a sprint, and it rewards those who are consistent and strategic in their content creation. If you're looking to diversify your income and drive traffic to your blog, consider leveraging tools like MiloTreeCart to sell digital products and create sales pages with ease. It's an excellent way to start monetizing your content and expanding your revenue streams. I hope you've found this blog post informative and inspiring. If you're enjoying the insights shared here, please consider leaving a rating on iTunes. Your feedback helps me continue to bring you valuable content and expert guests. I look forward to connecting with you again soon. Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! with Steve Wiideman Unleashing the Power of Pinterest with AI with Missy Lund Cutting-Edge Social Media Tactics for 2024 with Lauren Litt MiloTreeCart, the Easiest Way to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.

I'm Jillian Leslie, the host of The Blogger Genius Podcast and the founder of MiloTree. In my latest episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Madison Wetherill, a food blogger, web designer, and podcaster at Grace + Vine Studios. Today, we're talking about the essential traffic strategies food bloggers (and other niche bloggers) need to know to compete in today's market. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? Joyfully Mad Kitchen Grace + Vine Studios MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Ahrefs Airtable Canva ChatGPT Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify The Power of Niche Specialization and Personal Branding One of the key takeaways from our discussion is the significance of finding your niche. Madison emphasizes that by niching down, food bloggers can establish themselves as experts and cultivate a dedicated audience. Personal branding goes hand in hand with this, as it's crucial to connect with your audience on a personal level. By showcasing your human side and creating relatable content, you forge a stronger bond with your readers. Adapting to Industry Changes and Optimizing for E-E-A-T We delve into the concerns that come with shifts in ad networks, Google algorithms, and the advent of AI technology. Madison's advice? Focus on building personal connections and optimize your website for E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness). This not only helps in establishing credibility but also in gaining the trust of your audience. The Art of Crafting an Engaging About Page Your "About page" is more than just a biography; it's a strategic tool to convey authority and trustworthiness. Madison highlights the importance of including a personal photo and linking to a well-crafted about page. This balance showcases your expertise while also addressing your audience's needs and interests. Monetization Strategies: Beyond Traditional Ads The conversation also covers monetization strategies for food bloggers. We discuss the potential of diversifying income streams through digital products like paid meal plans, newsletters, and ebooks. The goal is to provide specific and valuable content that solves your audience's problems, thereby building a community of loyal supporters. Essential Tools for Food Bloggers Madison shares her favorite tools, which include Ahrefs for SEO and keyword research, Airtable for project management, and the Kadence framework for website customization. I also chimed in with the mention of ChatGPT and Canva as indispensable tools for bloggers. Building a Community and Offering Value Our discussion highlightsthe shift from relying solely on ad revenue to creating valuable digital products and nurturing a strong community. The key is to connect with your audience, address their problems, and build trust through personalized and niche-specific content. Remember, food blogging is now more than just recipes—it's about the stories, the expertise, and the connections we make. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: Master Google Updates: Essential Survival Guide for Niche Bloggers! How to Make Money Blogging in 2024 (New Trends) Advanced Coaching Tips for Food Bloggers MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank

Hello, fellow niche bloggers and digital marketing enthusiasts! Today I'm excited to share with you some invaluable insights from my latest Blogger Genius Podcast episode. We're diving deep into the recent Google updates and their impact on popular niche bloggers, like lifestyle bloggers, beauty bloggers, fitness bloggers, weight loss bloggers, interior design bloggers, personal finance blogs, and more. Think of this as your survival guide to the new Google updates and an exploration into the latest trends in the world of digital marketing. Show Notes: MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Personality Quiz: What Digital Product Should I Create? MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Steve Wiideman Become a Blogger Genius Facebook Group All Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify Adapting to Google Algorithm Updates As many of you know, Google's algorithm updates can significantly affect our traffic and income, especially for those of us who rely on ads and affiliate marketing to monetize our niche blogs. In fact, even popular niches, like food blogging, have taken big hits and lost tons of traffic. But bottom line, there's a silver lining!  I've been working with bloggers to pivot towards selling digital products, like digital downloads, workshops, memberships, online courses, coaching, etc., offering free 20-minute strategy calls to brainstorm and navigate this new income avenue. It's all about adapting and diversifying our monetization methods and traffic sources. SEO Expertise with SEO, Steve Weidman To give us a deeper understanding, I brought in SEO guru Steve Wiideman. Steve's expertise shed light on the necessity for bloggers to stay agile with Google's changing search algorithms and user behaviors. He stressed the importance of unique and helpful content, even in the age of AI-generated material. Beyond Traditional Web Search Steve urges us to look beyond the confines of traditional web search. Platforms like Google Discover, TikTok, and short-form media content are becoming increasingly important. It's about broadening our digital marketing horizons and embracing the platforms where our audiences spend their time. The Art of Keyword Research We also discuss the evolving role of keyword research in driving traffic and building brand awareness. Understanding user intent is crucial for creating content that truly resonates and provides value. For those hit by a drop in Google traffic, Steve recommended analyzing top-performing pages, studying competitors, and optimizing content for a variety of platforms and search engines. For new bloggers and experienced bloggers, it's no longer all about Google. Personalization and Marketing Channels The commoditization of content means we need to get personal. So even if you're in one of the most profitable blogging niches, like home improvement, personal development, fashion, mental health,  real estate, or travel etc. this is no longer enough to make a lot of money. It's a good idea to start using "I" and "me," and sharing your personal experiences to make our content more relatable. It will show your expertise and how well you know your specific niche. Steve also highlighted the need to stay on top of industry trends and utilize different marketing channels to remain competitive. Maximizing Marketing Vehicles In the latter part of our conversation, Steve emphasizes setting goals for increasing the utilization of various marketing vehicles. He suggests seeking expertise in platforms like LinkedIn and using AI to boost visibility and authority. The Rise of Generative AI Generative AI is revolutionizing how we interact and communicate. It's moving from providing solutions to taking actions, such as scheduling and content creation. This evolution opens up exciting opportunities for businesses in customer service, marketing data analysis, and content generation. Strategic Content Marketing for Niche Bloggers Steve encourages a strategic approach to content marketing. This includes reviving underperforming content through SEO reviews, UX assessments, and leveraging brand expertise. He also shared tips on using platforms like Reddit, Quora, and Medium effectively, focusing on providing value rather than self-promotion. A Granular Strategy for Success Finally, Steve advocates for a granular strategy. Start with one piece of content, measure the impact of each change, and continuously evolve. It's about being strategic, leveraging AI, and implementing a measured approach to content marketing and platform utilization. Embracing Creativity and Change To sum up, our digital marketing landscape is ever-evolving, and success lies in our ability to be creative, adapt to changes, and diversify our strategies. I hope these insights from the Blogger Genius podcast inspire you to explore new avenues like selling your own digital products and thrive in the digital space. Stay tuned for more episodes, and remember, I'm here to help you strategize your digital product journey. Let's embrace the change together! Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: How to Make Money Blogging in 2024 (New Trend) with Jillian Leslie How Will AI Impact Blogging in 2024 with Steve Wiideman? The Truth About Blogging Success: Hard Work and Risks with Faith Mariah MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.

Today I want to talk about how to look up from your own blog with fresh eyes to see the changing landscape and new trends. And then I want to share the best ways to pivot I recommend you start implementing now to grow your blog income. The Changing World of Blogging Is Blogging Dead? The first question I get asked is “Is blogging dead?” And I’m going to say no, it’s not dead but the blogging world is changing. Drop in Google Traffic As you know I talk to professional bloggers all the time, in all different niches, and recently I talked to four who all lost between 70-90% of their site traffic during these March Google updates.  Now we all know that when Google pushes out updates we shouldn’t change anything for about a month to see where the dust settles, but I don’t think any of these bloggers have seen such big swings before. So to be honest they were all a bit shell-shocked.  Show Notes: MiloTreeCart Book a FREE 20-minute strategy call with me MiloTreeCart Affiliate Program Catch My Party Anca from The Butter Table MiloTree Pop-Up App Join My Blogger Genius Email List Become a Blogger Genius Facebook GroupAll Blogger Genius Podcast Episodes Subscribe to the Blogger Genius Podcast: iTunes YouTube Spotify Google's Influence and SEO Shifts in Search Results So the first trend I expect to see is a decrease in overall traffic from Google for publishers or bloggers who are creating valuable content using best practices. Will we all be losing 70-90% of our traffic, my gut says no. In my experience, when Google makes changes they typically don’t reverse course. For example, when we launched Catch My Party, a lot of our users were Etsy sellers so we used their API and imported their products to our site, each product got a separate page. We did this for ease. We weren’t monetizing it. Google wasn’t seeing these pages as duplicate content so if people were searching for these products they could end up on our site. We were making really good affiliate income, the Etsy sellers were happy because of all the exposure they were getting, it was growing our traffic, and then one day it all went away. Google de-indexed those pages and that traffic and income were gone. My point is that Google changes usually move in one direction. And what is Google facing right now? Existential threats. Remember, all they care about is people coming to Google in need information and end up finding it and having a good experience. Recently though, the overall feel is the search experience has been deteriorating so Google has been making changes. Showing more results from Reddit and Quora. This is because they want answers from “real people.” Google has found that sites have been gaming SEO to make money with affiliate marketing, for example, and Google has been cracking down.  The Introduction of AI in Search Plus how is google going to implement AI in search. They are calling this the Google Search Generative Experience or SGE. Google is working on what this is going to look like, but one thing Google has said is their SGE will quickly provide users with the answers they need and not necessarily direct users to other sites or content.  If their AI, Gemini, can give you better results on their GSE page than sending you off to a site they don’t control, you better believe they will do that. In fact, I think it’s already happening in the travel space. Plus for successful bloggers monetizing with display ads, as 3rd party cookies get phased out,  advertisers not being able to track visitors, there will probably be downward pressure on ad revenue. Adapting to New Realities I was on a call with a food blogger this past week and I started painting this new picture for her and she couldn’t believe what I was saying. She’s an old school blogger. She doesn’t really use AI in her and feels like her readers could definitely tell the difference.  When I told her it’s all about her prompts and she could prompt her AI to sound like her, she got really upset. I told her she should start getting serious about learning how to use ChatGPT, she was shocked. When I told her that some people will be using AI for recipes and not going to blogs she didn’t believe me. She said, “Who’s going to get their recipe from a machine?” That's not high-quality content. Then over the next two days I heard of two people who get their recipes from ChatGPT and think it’s so easy. Do I believe everyone will be getting their recipes from AI, no. But it will become more common. I don’t mean to be painting a bleak picture for bloggers and they should not abandon creating great blog content. I just mean to point out that change is a foot and the more willing you are to embrace it, the more success you’ll have. What this really means is opening the aperture of how we see our business, our target audience, and our opportunities to serve them. I wouldn’t be surprised if the goal of cranking out blog posts, and getting them to rank in Google so you can make a full-time income from ad networks MediaVine or Raptive will shrink in the long run.  So I have 3 recommendations: 1. Diversify Your Traffic Sources Start investing in Pinterest again if you had given up on it in the past. It might take a couple of months to see ROI on it, but Pinterest static pins still drive traffic. I’ve heard of people going back to Facebook and using it to drive page views. I think this is especially true and platforms like Facebook are deprioritizing news. If you can build engagement with what you post on Facebook, you can drive traffic. I’ve even heard that people are starting to see traffic coming from other search engines like Bing. Bing is growing in search. So Google should not be your only play. And another place to invest in is growing your email list. Besides your blog, your email list is one of your most valuable assets. Because you own your email list. And all these people have said yes, to you showing up in their inbox. Think of that as them inviting you into their living room, so use it wisely. Give them value and let them get to know you. Focus in Email Marketing And remember, email marketing is the best and easiest way to sell. This also includes showing up on social media. Even if these platforms don’t drive a lot of traffic, right now, it’s about getting know. For you. Which leads to my next recommendation.  2.) Start Building Relationships With Your Audience Don’t think of them as nameless, faceless, “traffic.” These are real people. Like you are a real person. And this is where your competitive advantage moving forward comes into play. With AI, even great content is becoming a commodity. I can get a recipe or DIY from AI now. But YOU are not a commodity. You are a problem solver.  Start Focusing on Your Brand I did a solo episode on how you are now not just a content provider. You are an expert, selling your “vibe.” A few of the bloggers I spoke to this past week, didn’t like this idea because they’re used to hiding behind their blogs. But I’m going to say, this is the new reality. Get used to putting yourself out there, so people can get to know you. This is why you want to figure out your personal brand based on your expertise and vibe and start sharing it. And finally, my last recommendation: 3. Sell Solutions to Problems This is all about finding new income streams. We’re moving from an information economy (with AI, information is becoming a commodity) to a people-focused economy. Of course selling digital products is probably the easiest way to get started. If you want to talk to me about how to do it go to milotree.com and book a free 20-minute Zoo call with me. I’ll help you readjust your thinking as a blogger. I feel like this is what I do a lot of. And yes, starting with an ebook or guide or other types of digital downloads is a great place to start because they’re easy to create and they provide passive income. But what we see in our data at MiloTreeCart is the people making the most money are selling memberships, coaching, live 1-hour workshops. And notice something about each one of those products. It’s you showing up live with other people. Sure, if you want to create online courses go for it, but we're seeing mixed success with that. I feel like people are a little coursed out. Book a Call with Me to Talk About Digital Products And at MiloTreeCart, we have all the resources and step-by-step guides to launch these products with ease and without burnout. Just talk to me about it. There are opportunities out there. You just have to look for them. This is your time to connect with other bloggers in your niche, join Facebook groups, watch what bloggers in other niches are doing.  In addition to selling digital products, you could also look into selling physical products like if you're a crafter selling products on Etsy. And another thing you can sell are affiliate products. If you don’t want to start creating your own products and services, find affiliate products you can promote that will make you serious money. I’m not talking Amazon affiliate links.  But I recommend you find affiliate products that pay a lot of money. I'm talking about software products that have generous affiliate programs, so think about the tools you use and maybe you could be promoting them to other bloggers. In fact, we sell military card, as you may know, for a lifetime deal of $349 and we pay our affiliates $100 per sale. For example. We sell MiloTreeCart for $349 right now, lifetime deal. And we pay our affiliates $100 a sale.  April MiloTreeCart Affiliate Challenge And I’m even running a challenge in the month of April awarding an additional $250 bonus and a free hour-long coaching call for people who make 8 sales. You make 8 sales during the month you get over $1,350 in value. Here's how to join our MiloTreeCart affiliate program.  Look for Other Income Opportunities And there are other opportunities out there. For example, I had my friend Anca from The Butter Table on the show. She’s the food blogger who, like many new bloggers, didn’t want to grow her blog the traditional way and wait two years to get any traction, so she figured out how to create user generated content for brands, how to pitch to them, and she’s making a killing. She’s thinking outside the box. And btw, she’s teaching people how to do this. And if you say, I don’t have any marketable skills, I”m going to say, go learn a new skill that you can monetize. And if you know how to do anything with AI, you can sell that as a skill. Maybe you can teach other bloggers how to use AI to write blog posts or emails. How Blogging Is Changing and What to Do Now Yes, the world of blogging is changing. What’s worked so far, might not work as well in the future. Lean into your brand and your vibe. Your blog is not your brand. You are. Diversify your traffic sources and show up on social media even if it doesn’t drive traffic because you want people to know you and you get to know people. It’s no longer about traffic, it’s about people. Invest in growing your mailing list. Sending emails is the easy way to create your superfans who trust you and will buy from you. Diversify your revenue streams and start selling solutions. You don’t need millions of people. You just need a loyal audience who is interested in your blog niche. Find problems you can solve and charge for the solutions. It's a good idea to teach yourself new marketable skills that you can monetize. Find the opportunities (like great affiliate programs like MiloTreeCart) because there will be many new ways people will be making good money on the internet. And this is all good news. And show up as an empathetic human people can relate to. If you have any questions, reach out to me. I love hearing from you. If you’re having a rough time, reach out to me. If you want to start selling digital products, definitely reach out to me and we'll get on a free call. Now look, no one knows what the future holds if they say they do, do not trust them.  But I'm actually really bullish about the future of online business because it might not be about our blogs at a certain point. I'm not sure in the future people are going to be going to static web pages for information. But if you can show up as a real person with real solutions and willing to put in the hard work, you will win. I hope you found this episode helpful. And just so you know, there are many nights when I'm lying there wide awake thinking about all of this stuff. So maybe I recorded this episode as much for me as I did for you. If you're liking this show, please subscribe. Please leave a review on iTunes. I would so greatly appreciate it and I will see you here again next week. Other Related Blogger Genius Podcast episodes You’ll Enjoy: Capitalize on Your “Vibe,” Use It To Grow Your Blog with Jillian Leslie A New, Exciting Way to Make Money with Brand Collaborations with Anca Toderic How to Embrace Imperfection and Authenticity as a Blogger with Brooke Riley MiloTreeCart, the Best Tool for Non-Techies to Sell Digital Products I also want to introduce you to the MiloTreeCart, a tool designed for non-techies to sell digital products easily. It comes with features like fill-in-the-blank sales pages, check-out pages, a sales dashboard, upsells, and customer support. MiloTreeCart is currently available for a lifetime deal of $349 or three easy installments of $116.33.