Has running a business taken over your life? You’re making good money and have no shortage of clients. You’re feeling pretty successful with this business that you’ve built from the ground up. But you feel that if you blink too long it will start to crumble. Taking a day off is out of the question. You know you need to take your business to the next level, but you’re not sure how to get there. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss what’s keeping you from growing your lifestyle brand into a full-blown business that you can lead while still having a life. When you realize that making money was the easy part... When the thing you thought would give you freedom leaves you in chains... When you’ve bought all the courses and watched all the videos and still have no life outside of work... It’s time to assess your mess and figure out how to go from the Head Doer to the Leader of People. I’ve been working with my long-time friend and project managing guru Stephanie Veraghen to bring you the Assess Your Mess quiz.  The purpose of this quiz is to help you pinpoint your next steps:  Do you need to put a project management platform in place? Do you need to spend time developing personas and brand guidelines? Do you need to better understand how your marketing and sales decisions affect the rest of your company? What specific action can you take right now to turn your business mess into magic? Join me in today’s episode to learn more about what it takes to scale your business to 7-figures in a sustainable, values-driven way. You’ve done the work to lay a firm foundation for your business. Now it’s time to add the logistical framework that will allow you to scale into a company that finally gives you the personal freedom you’ve been searching for. Listen to episode 60 now! In episode 60 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [5:18] The key step all businesses must take to scale 7-figures[11:46] What business owners should NOT do when trying to grow their business beyond themselves[17:13] What the Assess Your Mess quiz assesses and how it can guide you toward your next steps[19:38] Why defining your purpose at this level is more essential than it was as a start-up[26:04] A common misunderstanding about the role of a CEO at different stages of a business[32:55] The importance of understanding how your marketing and sales decisions affect the rest of your company[39:05] What referrals can tell you about the sustainability of your business[42:35] How the Assess Your Mess quiz results can help you figure out your next steps in sustainably scaling your business   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Take the Brand Archetype Quiz and figure out your next stepsLearn more about Stephanie VeraghenSign up for 2-Minute Tuesdays to get weekly digital strategy tips in your inbox: https://realignyourstrategy.com/two-on-tuesdays/ Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedIn.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

Are you ready to revitalize your business and take it to the next level? This week I’m teaming up with project manager and business systems extraordinaire Stephanie Veraghen. We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring you a business development program you won’t find anywhere else. Have you been there, done that with marketing courses and project management systems - and still not gotten the results you need?  Are you ready to get some systems in place and learn to delegate so that you can be the leader your company needs?Are you ready to get your shit together so your business life doesn’t have to BE your life? Then this episode is for you. We are introducing the Get Your Shit Together Intensive for mature businesses who are ready to take things to the next level.  In today’s episode, Stephanie and I talk about what you can expect from the Get Your Shit Together program.  First, this is NOT a coaching course. We will work alongside you and your team to develop personalized systems and strategies to help you build a sustainable business. We want your business to keep growing and succeeding long after we’re no longer in the picture. Second, this intensive will provide you with a community of other business owners and CEOs. Like you, these leaders are working to build sustainable values-driven companies. It can be lonely at the top - but it doesn’t have to be. Third, we want to help you strengthen your team on a personal level. Being a values-driven leader is about putting people first, and that includes your team. We’ll work on ways to help you communicate, delegate, and self-regulate to be the leader your company needs.  We’re pretty excited about this program and can’t wait to see what we can create together with you.  Does the Get Your Shit Together Intensive sound like what you’ve been looking for? Join us in today’s episode to find out more details and how you can apply. Listen to episode 59 now! In episode 59 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [3:46] How the GYST intensive came about and how Stephanie and Renia’s experiences and expertise overlap[6:48] The most common issue clients are struggling with when Stephanie and Renia begin to work with them[8:40] What you can expect in the GYST intensive and how it is NOT a coaching course[25:44] The general structure of the GYST program and the importance of being real about the state of your business[29:05] How business management and digital strategy work together to get your business to the next stage[33:09] Why there is an application process for the GYST program and who should apply[36:52] Final details about the GYST initiative  Resources mentioned by Stephanie and Renia in the episode: Apply to be a part of the Get Your Shit Together Intensive.Learn more about Stephanie Veraghen - business coach, brand consultant, and project managerDiscover how HeartMath can help you in your personal and professional lives.Sign up for 2-Minute Tuesdays to get weekly digital strategy tips in your inbox. Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedIn.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

Are you unsure where to start to #DoBetterDigital with your marketing strategy? This Tuesday, your next step will be delivered right to your inbox. The Genevieve Digital team has been working hard to create actionable resources for business leaders like you: Leaders who want to get better results with digital marketing without compromising their values. To make those #DoBetterDigital resources readily available, we’re starting 2-Minute Tuesdays.  These weekly emails will take two minutes out of your day, but the impact on your business will be boundless.  With 2-Minute Tuesdays, you will learn things like: How to write click-worthy metadata,How to optimize internal links in a blog post, andHow to apply your values to sales funnels. Our goal is to provide you with actionable tips that you can put into place immediately.  These emails will also give you exclusive access to the Genevieve Digital Team for questions and feedback. We’ve been receiving an incredible number of emails from our listeners. To streamline the process, we are now encouraging you to submit your questions by responding to the 2-Minute Tuesdays emails. This ensures our team has the capacity to answer your questions. As an added bonus, every few episodes, Renia will choose audience questions to address directly on the show. How do you sign up?  Go to https://realignyourstrategy.com/two-on-tuesdays/ to get your name on the list. But wait! That’s not the only thing our team has been working on. We’re about to launch a new program designed especially for mature businesses. The rollout will begin next week with a special episode. Be sure to tune in! In today’s episode, be sure to listen for More details about 2-Minute Tuesdays What our new program is all about What you can expect in next week’s “Get Your Shit Together” episode (with a special guest!) A mini-lesson in how an ounce of courage can create your most effective CTAs Listen to episode 58 now!   In episode 58 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [4:20] What our team has been creating behind the scenes just for you[6:04] What the 2-Minute Tuesdays emails are all about and how to sign up[9:00] The #1 tip for creating an effective CTA, especially with an audience that supports you[11:35] The new program designed specifically for mature businesses that will be rolling out soon[14:40] Why Renia is especially passionate about #DoBetterDigital and offering resources to businesses right now   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Sign up for 2-Minute Tuesdays. Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedIn.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

Search Engine Marketing is essential to a sustainable marketing strategy. But how do you ensure that your SEM is values-driven? In the last episode,  we talked about the advantages of an SEO marketing strategy over one driven by social media.  This week we are taking a deeper dive into Search Engine Marketing (SEM). We will explore how to optimize this platform and #DoBetterDigital. In 2021, the search engine is its own platform. It requires a specific engagement strategy to be effective.  And when it comes to the Trinity Principle, I highly advocate that search be your primary marketing platform.  Search Engine Marketing doesn't come without flaws. But it also has some major benefits when compared with social media: Search is generally a more level playing field, especially for small and micro-businesses. The intentionality you put into search produces higher, longer-lasting dividends. Over time, search requires less hustle for bigger, more sustainable results.   In a 2021 world, you can’t afford NOT to focus on Search Engine Marketing. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss exactly where to put your focus to get the most out of SEM. I’m giving you a list of nine best practices for effective SEM. As always, these practices will help you grow your business while staying true to your values.  I’m covering a lot of information in today’s episode, including some technical jargon. To help you keep track of the details, my team is sharing the cheat sheet that we use with each of our clients. Download your SEM cheat sheet here. Are you ready to increase your visibility on the internet and build a more sustainable business? Listen to episode 57 now!   In episode 57 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [6:04] The good and the ugly of SEM when compared to other platforms. [12:07] How to use a small ad budget strategically and carefully for greatest effect [15:02] How Youtube videos can help your search rankings, especially when they are optimized [17:11] The vital role of local search, even for online businesses [20:45] Why you shouldn’t overlook Google Shopping if you have product [22:00] The importance of moving beyond keywords and connecting with intent [25:05] How intentionally used rich snippets can bring you better traffic [27:15] Why you should check your Core Web Vitals on a regular basis, especially if traffic has decreased [30:06] How to increase your ranking on Google by using the acronym E.A.T. [34:25] When you should consider if a non-Google SEM strategy is worth a look   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Download your Search Engine Marketing cheat sheet for today’s episode: https://realignyourstrategy.com/sem-cheat-sheet-opt-in-landing-page/ Revisit our episode on SEM best practices. Learn why three platforms are all you need with the Trinity Principle. Learn how to optimize your YouTube channel with these past episodes: How to Kick Ass at MetadataThinking Beyond Transcripts Review the importance of a #DoBetterDigital copy-first marketing strategy: Choosing a Copy-First Digital Strategy in a Video World CTAs That WorkBlogging in 2021 (And Beyond) Read more about E.A.T. and Google’s search engine ranking factors. Leave a review on iTunes. Connect with Renia on LinkedIn. Email Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

If you’re tired of the hamster wheel of social media content creation, it’s time to focus on a more sustainable business model. It’s a fact that our world is largely influenced by social media. It’s also true that social media can be a useful tool in your digital marketing strategy - especially with a #DoBetterDigital mindset. But the idea that we can constantly be “on” and responsive is not a business model. When you focus much of your marketing dollars and effort on social media, you can guarantee one thing: you’re headed for burnout. The issue with relying on social media to drive the majority of your sales is that social media requires constant engagement. If you take a week off, your bottom line suffers. What you created for last month’s campaign isn’t going to continue generating leads or sales after the campaign is over. In today’s episode, I am proposing a more sustainable focus for your marketing: a search-first digital strategy. This means optimizing your website for search. It means  Developing in-depth, evergreen content, Focusing on keywords, alt-tags, and metadata,Considering site speeds and mobile compatibility,Creating backlinks and internal links, andFocusing on user experience.   An SEO-first marketing strategy does require a bit of work upfront. That’s why I’ve spent several episodes talking about SEO and how to do it effectively.  But dollar for dollar, a search-based strategy provides you with more value than a social media-based one.   Check out these statistics: 53%: The percentage of all trackable website traffic that comes from organic search. (BrightEdge) 5%: The percentage of all trackable traffic that comes from paid social. (BrightEdge)   This is partly because content driven by SEO can continue to get traffic for years. Meanwhile, that video you spent hours on for your social media platform last month has probably already run its course. But how do you make that transition to a search-first strategy? And what about all those influencers who’ve amassed a huge audience? Can’t you simply add keywords to your social media posts and call it a day? I answer these questions and more in today’s episode. If you’re looking to create a business model that does the work for you - even when you take a break - you need to shift your focus to SEO.  Listen to episode 56 now! In episode 56 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [4:48] Why it’s important to consider what you’re building when choosing a business model [10:27] Why you should consider what’s happening in your business when making the shift to search-based marketing [13:06] Why an SEO-based business model just makes sense based on human behavior [14:59] What the long-term implications are of focusing more on search than social media [21:00] Why it used to be easier to depend on a social media marketing strategy [26:16] The difference between SEO and SEM, and why both matter [28:38] How to SEO has changed in the last ten years [29:55] What to expect when transitioning from a social media based strategy to a search-first business model   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Learn why SEO is a long-term strategy (You’ll want to bookmark this one!) Review what a copy-first digital strategy is and why it works. Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedIn.Email Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

The Call to Action (CTA) is often seen as a necessary evil in marketing. But while it is necessary, it doesn’t have to be evil. The reality of marketing is that, ultimately, you are asking people to give you money. (Sometimes their time, or a positive review, but usually it’s money.) The reality of running a business is that you need money to operate. As I’ve talked about before, sales cure everything when it comes to accomplishing the goals you’ve set for yourself and your business. But it’s not uncommon for marketers to balk when it comes time to ask potential clients to take action. It seems easier to allude to what we want rather than risk seeming scammy and underhanded. In values-driven marketing, crafting compelling CTAs doesn’t have to be difficult. In today’s episode, we talk about how to change your perspective when it comes to making that call to action.  How can you avoid the manipulative tactics that go against your values? View CTAs as empowering your audience to take action to improve their lives - because that’s exactly what you’re doing. As a values-driven marketer, you’ve already created goods, services, or content that will help your audience in some way. Now it’s your job to encourage them to do what they need to do to access those things.Maybe it’s giving you money.Maybe it’s downloading an ebook.Maybe it’s listening to your podcast.But here’s the thing: They won’t know what to do until you ask. It’s a general rule that objects at rest tend to stay at rest. Potential clients, especially those who are new to us, can seem incredibly hard to reach without resorting to underhanded tactics. Even persuading them to share their email can seem like a Herculean task. In this episode, I will give you specific steps for creating effective, values-driven CTAs that move your audience to action. And of course, we have a checklist to help you remember all the little details and stay consistent in your practices. You can download your Landing Page Scorecard here. Are you ready to revolutionize your marketing strategy with CTAs that inspire without manipulation? Listen to episode 55 now!   In episode 55 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [4:40] What a CTA is and why it doesn’t have to be manipulative to be effective[7:34] The two types of CTAs and where CTAs show up in the digital world[10:37] Why clarity is the most important part of writing an effective CTA[14:15] How to avoid a disconnect between the CTA and the landing page so you don’t  lose clients[16:38] The importance of making “small asks” with your CTAs that build trust over time[22:09] How “Content Bingo” can help you create and manage more effective CTAs   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Download the Landing Page Scorecard to improve your CTAs and landing pagesExplore the Dear Grown Ass Women community.Check out YourSuper.com.Grab the Copy and Formatting Checklist from episode 53 here Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedIn.Email Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

When it comes to building a blog, creating content is only the first step. You also have to make that content accessible.   Values-driven marketing is about putting people first. You’ve worked hard to create blog posts that provide value for your audience. But your job isn’t done. Your digital strategy must consider two questions:  How will your audience find your blog?  How will your audience consume your content? Blogs that keep these two concerns in mind can be greatly beneficial to a marketing strategy. Done right, blogs can  Improve your search rankings,Drive traffic to your site, and Grow your email list.  There is a lot of noise out there in the digital space. In the last episode, I explained why the most effective marketing strategy puts copy first. But that doesn’t mean mindlessly adding to the noise. A values-driven, copy-first digital strategy means being intentional with every word your brand puts out. In today’s episode, I give you 5 steps that will make your blog stand out above the rest and keep your audience coming back for more.  These 5 steps are the exact steps our copywriters and formatters use for every piece of content we create. Generally speaking, we Employ keywords in strategic places so that the intended audience can find what they’re looking for, Use carefully chosen “power words” to get our audience’s attention without being manipulative, and Structure our content a particular way so that even when people are in a hurry, they can still get value from what we’ve created. We’ll go over the “why’s” and “how’s” of exactly what to do in today’s episode. Be sure to download our free Copy and Formatting Checklist, because there’s a lot to remember. We refer to this checklist with every piece we create to ensure we remain consistent and use best practices.  Are you ready to transform your blog posts to make them work for you? Listen to episode 54 now! In episode 54 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [3:03] Why blogs still matter in the video world of 2021[6:06] Why being intentional with your headline is a vital step to creating a blog that works for you[11:54] What Power Words are and how to use them to increase traffic to your site[23:53] How to write a meta description that will  increase your click-through rate[25:18] Tips for creating people-friendly content that your audience will engage with[30:44] Tips for creating SEO-friendly content that will improve your site’s rankings on search engines   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Download our checklist for copy and formatting Checkout episode 53 to learn more about a copy-first digital strategy Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedInEmail Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

Are you underinvesting in the most critical piece of your digital strategy? In today’s episode, we discuss why a copy-first digital marketing strategy makes the most sense, even in a video world. Copy is the words you use to market your brand and sell your product. It’s the number one thing that connects you to your audience and convinces them to take the action you want them to take. Without good copy, your digital strategy has no foundation to stand on. You're probably thinking, “What about design? And a good-looking website? And all the technical stuff?” While those things are important, without good copy, none of that matters. It doesn’t take more than a few minutes on the internet to see that even ugly things sell. But bad copy undermines even the best-laid designs. Today we talk about how to create good copy and where to pay attention to it in your strategy. Copywriting is not the same as creative writing. Copy is a conversation between you and your clients, and it must follow some general formulas to be effective.  I’ve said before that I only have a few hard rules when it comes to digital marketing. One of them is this:  Marketers need to either learn how to write good copy or hire someone who does.  Many of our clients do a mix of both.  A great copywriter is an investment, and you often get what you pay for. If you’re not at a place where you can hire a full-time copywriter, you’ll need to learn a few things about writing at least some of it yourself. Today I’ll be giving you tips on how to get the most out of either route. And for those who’ve got this copy thing down, you’ll still want to check out today’s episode for all the unexpected places where the words you choose matter. Have you considered: Voice search?Video tags?The FAQ page?SRT files?   In values-driven marketing, we put people first. That means thinking through every connection point between you and your audience.  Are you offering value every step of the way?  Is your message clear and accessible? I’ve packed a lot into today’s episode, so we’re sharing a free checklist to help you keep things straight. We use this checklist with our own projects to make sure the copy aligns with our values and standards. Get your Free Copy and Formatting Checklist here. Are you ready to #DoBetterDigital with accessible, compelling copy? Listen to episode 53 now! In episode 53 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [7:31] Tips for choosing a great copywriter who will get results[12:56] Tips for writing effective copy that will move people to act[18:19] Why video content still needs effective copy[22:30] How to make the most out of voice search with a copy-first strategy[26:10] Why FAQs and question-based headlines are essential for optimal search rankings[28:04] Why you should get comfortable with Schema to mark up your content[30:50] How mobile-first, local-centric copy can increase visibility and traffic[32:08] How formatting for styling can hurt your digital strategy and how to fix it Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Download our Copy and Formatting Checklist Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedInEmail Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

What if I told you it was possible to have fun with your digital strategy and not feel overwhelmed by it? In today’s episode of Small Stage, Big Impact, we’ll discuss the Trinity Principle. This strategy  takes the overwhelm out of digital marketing, gives you back control over where and how you engage your audience, and leads to better marketing outcomes.   For those who’ve been following along for a while, you’ve heard me speak about the Trinity Principle before. But it can be a difficult perspective shift, especially for those of us who’ve listened to all the gurus telling us to be everywhere and everything for everybody on social media. Or we’ve taken some coaches’ advice and sunk everything we have into a single platform, taking a big risk in hopes of a big payoff.The Trinity Principle is an approach to digital marketing that doesn’t leave you exhausted or require you to take unnecessary risks with your business. You get to do less but do it better. You get to have more control, more time, and more connection with your audience. And you get a higher return on your investment. So what is the Trinity Principle? It is simply this: You only need three platforms - executed well- to get all of the leads and sales your business needs to prosper. Yes, you read that right. Three. I can almost hear the “But what about…” on the tip of your tongue. That’s why I decided to dive deeper into the Trinity Principle in today’s episode.First, I’ll explain why the Trinity Principle is so important for values-driven marketers. We do a disservice to our audience and ourselves when we spread ourselves too thin. The Trinity Principle lets us engage our audiences with integrity.  Then I’ll give you some pointers on choosing those three platforms. As an SEO nerd, I’ve got a pretty strong opinion about what your first two should be. (I’ve also got the data to back it up!). But the third platform is where you have room to play, and we can help you figure out what’s best for you. I’ll also talk about why focusing on only one platform is not a wise risk to take. The Trinity Principle helps you to mitigate risk while also giving space for courage and creativity to grow your business. As a strategic planning consultant, I've helped clients evaluate their businesses to decide the best place for them to be in the digital space. Are you ready to take a step back, take a deep breath, and then achieve more than you ever thought possible?   Listen to episode 52 now! In episode 52 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [2:58] What the Trinity Principle is and why some marketers find it difficult to use [5:43] How values-driven marketing relates to the Trinity Principle [11:08] What trips up traditional marketers when they try to use social media [14:23] Why you should consider an email list as one of your three platforms [16:23] The problem with focusing on one single platform for all of your marketing needs [20:24] Why you should consider Search Engine Marketing as one of your three platforms [25:44] The different options available for your third platform [30:06] How to know which platform to choose for your third platform [38:02] The three platforms Genevieve Digital uses and why we chose them [43:49] One last thing to consider that might be blocking you from breaking up with social media platforms   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Leave a review on iTunesConnect with Renia on LinkedInEmail Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

Learn how to toss manipulative Bro Marketing tactics to the curb in this episode of SSBI. Grow your business with equity and kindness at its core. Listen now. When it comes to breaking up with Bro Marketing, identifying it is the first step. How do you know if you’ve been using Bro Marketing tactics? It’s simple: if you’ve ever felt manipulative when trying to make a sale, you’ve participated in Bro Marketing. Bro Marketing is like a bad relationship. It makes a lot of promises and even seems to deliver on them - for a while. But its tactics leave us feeling like dirt, shamed into thinking we aren’t trying hard enough.  Ultimately, Bro Marketing is not sustainable. But how do we escape? In Season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact, we are going to give you the tools you need to break up with Bro Marketing for good.  Last season, we talked a lot about #DoBetterDigital. Digital marketers have shaped the world, and we have a responsibility to fix the damage we’ve done. If we can make the mess, we can clean it up. How? With Bro Marketing’s better looking, harder working, more empathetic alternative: values-driven marketing. Unlike Bro Marketing, values-driven marketing leads to sustainable success. Also unlike Bro Marketing, values-driven marketing requires hard work and sacrifice. Is it worth it? With over a decade of experience backing me up, I can answer confidently: Yes! I’m not offering a quick-fix solution. Values-driven marketing is not a prescription - it’s a practice. But with each episode, I’ll share with you proven practices that will lead to the type of success you can be proud of.  You may find that you’ve already been incorporating the values-driven mentality in your marketing practices. To help you determine where you are on your values-driven marketing journey, we’ve created a downloadable quiz. Use it to take notes, do some journaling, or help you focus on where you want to go. And if it turns out you’re more entrenched in Bro Marketing than you thought you were, don’t worry. As Dr. Maya Angelou so famously said,           “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when           you know better, do better.”Are you ready to know how to #DoBetterDigital and make an impact you can be proud of? Listen to episode 51 now! In episode 51 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [5:15] How marketers really do have the power (and responsibility) to shape the world [13:26] The lesson we can learn from Facebook about the impact we have as marketers {16:00] One of Renia’s few hard rules for values-driven marketing and why it’s so important [17:47] The difference between sales and marketing and why it matters [19:22] What you can expect to learn during Season 5 of SSBI [21:58] Renia’s personal story and how she knows values-driven marketing is worth the work [31:12] How to get the most from this journey to learn how to #DoBetterDigital [35:30] How to know where you are on your values-driven marketing journey[43:26] What is Bro Marketing? Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Learn more about Dear Grown Ass Women. Leave a review on iTunes.Connect with Renia on LinkedInEmail Renia with questions or feedback.Don’t miss an episode of season 5 of Small Stage, Big Impact.

It’s our 50th episode y’all! And we can’t wait to share what we’ve learned with you. We’ve been in business for 12 years, and we’ve never had a year like 2020. (Has anyone?)  This year has been a watershed moment for many businesses, ours included. The events of the past twelve months have stretched us in ways we never could have imagined. But as I’ve mentioned a few times before, this year has taught us to focus on what truly matters. We work with many individual clients and businesses to realign their digital strategy. But this podcast is our voice and connection to our wider audience. We’ve strived to become leaders in the digital space, to be a platform that champions empathy, equity, and accessibility in marketing. Along the way, we’ve stumbled. But we’re committed to this work, so we’re committed to continuous improvement. In today’s episode, I share what we’ve learned in our first year of podcasting.  We’ve grown as a business and as people through this work. I hope we’ve made an impact on your lives and businesses as well. I’m pretty excited about where Genevieve Digital is headed in 2021. We’re recommitting ourselves to breaking up with manipulative sales hacks that compromise our values. Join me in today’s episode to find out why that means more free content for you. From all of us here at Genevieve Digital, may you find time to rest and rejuvenate this holiday season. Here’s to another year to #DoBetterDigital! In episode 50 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [3:00] How the trajectory of a project can change for the better from the impact of  a single person or experience[5:01] How not doing enough research to prepare for a podcast can come back and bite you. [7:07] How we learned to put our money where our mouth is in terms on online accessibility[8:54] The importance of respecting your audience’s intelligence in your content offerings[9:42] The value of intentional slow growth and production in taking care of your team[10:53] Intention vs impact and how to really be the change we want to see[13:33] Why we are so grateful for our clients and listeners who’ve been with us on this journey[14:48] What you can expect to see from Genevieve Digital in 2021   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Apply for a 2021 digital partnership with Genevieve DigitalWatch this episode on Youtube Leave a review on iTunes to help us make a bigger impactFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of Small Stage, Big Impact

Have you thought about the types of people who make up your team?   Our team at Genevieve Digital is made up of women from diverse backgrounds, talents, and experiences. They each bring a unique perspective that enriches the work we’re doing. Recently, we went through an exercise that opened my eyes to the valuable assets I have on my team. Each of these women shows up in special ways that broaden my view of the world and how we’re impacting it. In today’s episode, I’m sharing with you the results of that exercise. Each team member, myself included, shared the podcast episode that most influenced them this year. They could choose from any podcast, and their answers were as individual as they are.  If you’re looking for unconventional perspectives that challenge the norm, we’ve got what you need.  The podcasts that made the list cover a wide range of topics. What if our view of what it means to be creative is too narrow?What if the effectiveness of popular gurus is actually an illusion?What if we saw our struggles not as personal flaws but as signs that something needs to change? These episodes challenged us to forge new paths as we continue to work for a more equitable world. After the year we’ve had, our world will never be the same. It can’t be.  I hope today’s episode inspires you to approach this coming year with a mind open to possibility. Listen now. In episode 49 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [4:01] How Christina S’s favorite podcast helped her to not feel so jaded about some big issues she’s been grappling with[7:56] How Christina G’s favorite podcast reinforced a view on marketing that is unconventional and controversial[11:11] How Liz’s favorite podcast helped her see what creativity really looks like even for those not in “creative” fields[15:27] How Renia’s favorite podcast helped her to see areas she personally needed to work on to have a more effective impact on the world[20:31] How Renia has found freedom operate differently in the world of marketing and to allow her clients and employees to do the same   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Listen to the podcast episode mentioned by Christina S, The Authenticity Delusion from Lawrence Lanoff’s podcast, The Optimized MindRevisit the episode mentioned by Christina G, Neutrality is Bad for Business, episode 41 of Small Stage, Big ImpactListen to the podcast episode mentioned by Liz, How to Become More Creative - Even If You Think You Aren’t from Building a StoryBrand with Donald Miller Listen to the podcast episodes mentioned by Renia: Brene Brown with Sonya Renee Taylor, Search Off the Record, and Decolonizing ProfessionalismWatch this episode on YoutubeApply for a 2021 digital partnership with Genevieve Digital Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then what are your images saying about your brand? My struggle to find images and photography that accurately portrays me and my brand started several years ago. I don’t like the way I appear on camera, and I’ve been told several times that I’m just not photogenic. Plus, each stock image I found seemed sterile, and I couldn’t find a photographer who could capture the energy I wanted for my brand. As an able-bodied, cis-gendered white woman, I realize that I am more privileged than many. But I’ve worked as a coach and a strategist with many different types of people. What I’ve learned from their struggles, as well as my own, is the power images have to send messages without our need to say a word.  Sometimes they send messages we never intended. But images also have the power to tell the world exactly what - and who - we stand for. It’s easy to grab stock photos to fill out our ads and webpages. They’re free or at least inexpensive, and they’re easy to get.. But do they speak to who we are and what we’re trying to accomplish? In today’s episode, I talk about the importance of evaluating the message we are sending with the visuals of our brand.  Are our photos a little sterile? Are our pictures a little safe? In our campaign to #DoBetterDigital, we’ve talked about the importance of having the courage to step outside the norm. We’ve discussed the need to offer the unexpected to honor our audience and ourselves. If we want our brands to be inclusive, diverse, and accessible, we can’t ignore the imagery we choose to represent them. Are your images inclusive, diverse, and accessible?  Do your visuals make you the hero of the story, or does it focus on your audience?  Does your imagery show you as a service provider, or as a celebrity? If we want our audience to see themselves in our brand, we need to show them that they already have a place. Join me in today’s episode as we discuss how to line up our imagery with our intentions to #DoBetterDigital. Listen now. In episode 48 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [6:46] Where Renia’s journey into inclusive imagery started for herself and for her business[11:50] How the type of brand you are informs the types of images you need to convey your brand message[15:39] How diverse imagery improves your marketing because it focuses on your audience[17:00] Tips for how to build your image library to best reflect your brand[19:45] The benefits of creating a custom image library instead of relying only on stock images[21:46] How and why to choose a great photographer who can support your goals of inclusivity and diversity Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Watch the Diversity in Photography TEDtalk  Read The Photographer’s Guide to Inclusive Photography Discover how inclusivity is changing the world of photographyCheck out this inclusive list of photographersSubscribe to a more diverse collection of stock photos Watch this episode on Youtube Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

Does talking about conversion funnels make you feel a little sleazy? Many of us flinch at the idea of asking someone for money. But we know that without sales our businesses cannot survive. Traditional marketing tactics leave us feeling like we need a shower. But we aren’t sure of any other way to get the word out about what we have to offer. What if I told you there was a different way to view funnels that honors both you and your customer?  What would happen if you stopped viewing the buyer’s journey as a funnel that squeezes customers for cash? What if you viewed it as a leisurely walk with a friend whose life you want to make better? How would that perspective impact your marketing approach? In today’s episode, I walk you through how it’s possible to #DoBetterDigital with each step of the buyer’s journey. Being great at marketing and sales doesn’t have to involve questionable sales tactics.  Being great at marketing and sales means being great at solving problems. What problem does your audience have that you are uniquely situated to solve? How can you ethically guide your potential client to discovering the solution you have to offer? Join me in today’s episode to find out how to create a journey that benefits both you and your customer. Listen now!   In episode 47 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [7:13] The first essential step of the buyer’s journey that you can’t afford to ignore[10:55] Why manipulative ads are a bad idea if you want long-term audience buy-in[13:26] What must be included in your content to establish a relationship with your audience[15:16] How a clear, value-driven opt-in builds trust between you and your customers[19:39] Why the follow-up needs to be carefully thought out before asking your audience to take a risk[21:50] A special message for healers and coaches when creating your follow-up system[25:49] How the delivery method of your main offer is another chance to strengthen the relationship with your clients[27:41] The crappy things digital marketers do that are not necessary for effective sales funnels   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Revisit episode 38 “How to Kick Ass at Metadata”Apply for a 2021 digital partnership with Genevieve DigitalWatch this episode on Youtube Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

Have you thought about what the new normal will look like in a post-pandemic world? Have you thought about how you can influence what that new world will look like?  In today’s episode, I talk about what my team and I have learned in 2020, and how we’re planning to use those lessons to transform the digital world in 2021. When this podcast was launched a year ago in December 2019, I had an idea of what I wanted 2020 to look like.  And then we all got a year that no one could have predicted. Out of the chaos and upheaval of this past year, we have a chance to create something better. To form a world that amplifies the voices of the marginalized. To shape a marketplace with empathy, equity, accessibility at its center. We’ve had to realign our business strategies in 2020 to meet the moment. And we’ll be taking some of those strategies into the new year because they line up with our goal to impact the world for the better. The biggest lesson I’ve learned this year is this: When you take away what is easy, sometimes you’re left with what is right. 2020 has pushed us all outside of our comfort zones, personally and professionally. Hopefully, that push has helped us to see what truly matters. What’s worth holding on to. What’s worth pursuing. What’s worth giving up. In 2021, Genevieve Digital is going to give up a few things to jump wholeheartedly into the #DoBetterDigital campaign. We’re going to focus on our people, our passions, and our promise. Did you know that as entrepreneurs, we have made a sacred promise?  What it is might surprise you, but I have a feeling it will inspire you to adjust your focus for the coming year. What is this promise, and what can you expect from us in 2021? Join me in today’s episode to find out - and then let me know what impact YOU will be making this year. In episode 46 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [5:30] How and why we made the shift away from focusing only on local businesses[10:44] How we have learned to go deep, not wide to better spread the message of #DoBetterDigital[18:00] Why we are making the shift away from coaching toward digital strategy[21:12] How and why we are focusing less on doing it all and more on doing what we love [26:26] The sacred duty of entrepreneurs, and how that’s affected the direction of Genevieve Digital[30:42] Why we are stepping away from social media for now in order to cultivate relationships in other areas[34:27] What you can expect from us in 2021    Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Purchase Emergent Strategy by Adrienne Maree BrownApply for a 2021 digital partnership with Genevieve DigitalWatch this episode on YouTubeLearn more about business author and speaker Mike MichalowiczCheck out the Dear Grown Ass Women communityRevisit Naomi Hattaway’s episode where she discusses a “slow campaign”  Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

Is there anything worth salvaging from 2020? If you’ve been following along for the past few episodes, you know that I’ve been able to find some nuggets of gold in all the junk 2020 has been throwing at us this year. My business has grown. I’ve grown. As a business leader and as a person. In today’s episode, you’ll hear from some of our past guests about what they’re thankful for, and how they’re moving into 2021 with hope. A common thread in each of their statements is that intentionality is essential to gratitude. Each of these women has chosen to use the chaos of 2020 to focus on what truly matters. And often what matters to us personally has a profound effect on what we’re doing with our businesses.  Many of you have committed to #DoBetterDigital so you can be better business leaders and better people. You’ve committed to creating a better world.  When we find reasons to be thankful, we remind ourselves what we’re fighting for. Are you struggling to find a spark of gratitude after the hot mess of 2020? I hope today’s episode will inspire you to not only find a reason to be thankful, but also find a reason to hope for a better 2021. Listen now. In episode 45 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [4:10] The need to intentionally reassess how you have been using your time[7:51] The importance of creating the right kind of support network in you business and personal life[8:43] How learning to notice your wins leads helps you to continue to move forward and find success[11:24] Why embracing who we are is vital to creating healthy relationships and empowering others to do the same[15:14] What Renia is most grateful for this year   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Revisit Danielle’s episode about why it’s important to your business to make room for creativityRevisit Elizabeth’s episode about how the power you need to succeed is already inside of you  Revisit Kronda’s episode about making your website work for youRevisit Lori’s episode about the impact on our business when we lead from our values Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

What are you doing to actively build up your community? If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that we really do need each other. In our personal and professional lives, we depend on our community not just to survive, but to thrive.  Today’s guest is Naomi Hattaway, an experienced world traveler and current City Council candidate. Naomi is passionate about community building, diversity, and accessibility in online and personal spaces.  That community-building includes people who don’t always agree with what she stands for. Naomi is a biracial woman in the Midwest who doesn’t even try to conform to societal norms. She has met her fair share of resistance and rejection. But her unconventional education and experience in the international community have taught her to view the world through a unique lens. Referencing Nilofer Merchant, author of The Power of Onlyness, Naomi states, “There’s a spot in this world only you can stand in.” Naomi strives to show up every day and interact with her community with intention and compassion. She’s learned not to be restrained by others’ ideas of how the world works and how she should exist within it. And she’s here today to share some of that hard-earned wisdom with us. How do we bring together people of diverse experiences, beliefs, and political leanings to achieve a common goal? Is it possible to build up our community even in times of social distancing? What does it look like to be true to ourselves while fulfilling the roles and responsibilities demanded by our professional lives? Join me in today’s episode, where we explore the power we have to transform our communities and build a kinder, more accessible, and more equitable world. Listen now. In episode 44 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [7:15] A simple step you can do today to support the community where you live[8:10] What is means to “leave well” when you experience changes in your life[9:28] How the practice of “leaving well” applies in a professional setting[16:10] Strategies Naomi has used to reach across party lines to bring her community together[20:27] How Naomi has struggled to balance heart and empathy with politics[25:12] Naomi’s method for being authentic while still operating within the boundaries of her professional roles[29:19] How to choose who makes up your inner circle so you are supported in achieving your goals[35:34] Why Naomi is running a “slow campaign” to best honor herself, her team, and her community[40:24] What Naomi would do if she had a magic wand   Resources mentioned by Naomi and Renia in the episode: Learn more about Naomi HattawayFollow Naomi’s campaign on the campaign’s website, Facebook page, and InstagramFollow Naomi on Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedInPurchase The Power of Onlyness: Make Your Wild Ideas Mighty Enough to Dent the World Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

What would change for you if you viewed your SEO strategy as a transformational change instead of just data-driven analytics? In today’s episode, I’m sharing my thoughts on how SEO fits into our #DoBetterDigital strategy. Search engine optimization is about more than traffic, keywords, and backlinks - though those things are important. Great SEO is part of a holistic marketing practice.  It's not enough to tell great stories, or develop a great product, or really care about your customers. We need all of those elements to create a sustainable marketing strategy.  We even need SEO. Because like each of those elements, SEO done right puts people first. We must stop viewing SEO as tweaks and hacks that generate short-term traffic and sales. Instead, let’s see it as a dedicated practice that requires long-term strategy.  Our relationship with our customers ebbs and flows as we experience growth and change on both sides. A great SEO strategy helps us get a clearer picture of that relationship. And that picture helps us to become better business leaders, better digital influencers, and better people. Great SEO helps us #DoBetterDigital. So how exactly do we go from analyzing data to putting people first with SEO? Join me in today’s episode to find out. Listen now. In episode 43 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [5:22] Why the transactional part of marketing seems taboo to many of us, but is actually essential[8:21] What your SEO cycles can teach you about your place as a digital influencer[9:03] How SEO is an important part of a holistic marketing plan with several important benefits[11:38] How great SEO requires you to put people first, the cornerstone of #DoBetterDigital[13:09] Why SEO has shifted too far toward the transactional, and what we can do about it Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

2020 is the year the world turned upside down. Has your marketing kept up? In today’s episode, we talk with Jedi Marketing Master, cohost of Digital Dykes, and my longtime friend, Crystal Smith.  We’re looking back at the biggest marketing fails of 2020, as well as what it takes to stay relevant in a changing world. The biggest fail I’ve seen from Businesses Who Must Not Be Named is the attempt to cling to “business as usual.”  They may throw up a black box for Black Lives Matter on their website or post a “masks required” sign on their door. But the marketing strategies they mapped out in December of 2019 move ahead as scheduled. There is no awareness that their target audience may have shifted priorities. The purpose of marketing is to persuade your audience to make a purchase.  If your audience is focused on meeting their basic needs for food, shelter, and safety, no amount of fancy copy or pretty pictures is going to persuade them to open their wallets to you. We must always remember the humanity of our audience. As Crystal points out, the only way to be ethical AND successful in business is to be transparent.  Transparent in our expectations.  Transparent in our struggles.  And transparent in what we can deliver.  The marketing failures of 2020 happened because marketers forgot the cornerstone of effective marketing:  People buy from people they know, like, and trust. How exactly do we adapt our marketing strategy to an audience with different needs and expectations than a year ago? We adjust our perspective, and we forge a new path.  To #DoBetterDigital, we must choose to do, or do not. There is no try. But we CAN do it together. Learn more about how to be a marketing success in a post-2020 world in today’s episode. Listen now. ***Please note: Today’s episode is very NSFW or suitable for small ears.*** In episode 42 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [11:18] The number one mistake some marketers are making in 2020[22:26] The number one rule to being an ethical digital influencer and a successful marketer[38:45] The definition of “bro-marketers” and why their marketing tactics just don’t cut it[41:46] How marketing can be a positive influence in the lives of consumers[45:06] The kind of manipulation you should avoid in marketing if you want to #DoBetterDigital[50:24] Renia’s “cheat code” for digital marketing newbies who are struggling to find clients[52:47] Renia and Crystal’s advice for sustainable success in business and in life   Resources mentioned by Crystal and Renia in the episode: Learn more about Crystal on her websiteWatch this episode on YouTube Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact

Have you ever been told that when doing business you need to check your opinions on politics and religion at the door? I received this advice from a former mentor, and I’ve spent the past eight years proving him wrong. In today’s social media world, neutrality is not an option. Not only is neutrality morally bankrupt, but it’s also bad for your business. Effective marketing is customer-focused. Right now, our customers are living in a world where people are scared and dying. Institutions and traditions we’ve relied on for generations are being turned on their heads. Belief systems are being turned inside out. What your customers need from you now is surety about where you stand. Trust is hard to come by right now. Your audience needs to be able to trust that your values are in line with theirs before they will trust you with their money. And if you truly want to #DoBetterDigital, you cannot sit on the fence about issues that so deeply impact the lives of your audience. Please understand that I am not advocating arguing on social media or even backing a particular political candidate. I am advising that you gather your courage, step out in confidence, and clearly communicate your values as a company. What does taking a stand look like, and why is it vital to the success of your business, now more than ever? Join me in today’s episode to find out. Listen now. “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor. If an elephant has its foot on the tail of a mouse and you say that you are neutral, the mouse will not appreciate your neutrality.” - Desmond Tutu In episode 41 of Small Stage, Big Impact we discuss: [4:10] The worst advice I ever received about how to run a business[8:44] Why neutrality is bad for business if you want to connect with today’s audience[12:10] What taking a stand looks like in your marketing strategy[14:23] What taking a stand shouldn’t look like if you want your messaging to be clear[20:01] An action to consider for your company on the day after the election   Resources mentioned by Renia in the episode: Leave a review on iTunesFollow LoreniaC on InstagramDon’t miss an episode of season 4 of Small Stage, Big Impact