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Mike Brennan Liz Wilcox email marketing podcast daily creative habit

Cracking the Email Marketing Code with Liz Wilcox

August 5, 2024

Let's talk about unlocking the magic of email marketing, but with a sprinkle of fun and simplicity – just like Liz Wilcox does. Oh, and did we mention? Liz recently survived Survivor season 46, adding yet another feather to her cap!

Keep It Personal and Simple

Liz is all about staying top of mind. She emphasizes the importance of sending out regular, meaningful updates.

You might be wondering, “What exactly should I be sharing?” Liz’s go-to strategy? Personal updates. Yep, let your subscribers in on your journey, share little life moments or business insights. It's all about building that connection.

Ditch the Insecurities

It's easy to get tangled up in impostor syndrome and worry about whether your audience finds value in your emails. Liz and Mike Brennan, the host of the Creative Chats podcast, dove into this issue. Their advice? KISS – Keep It Simple and Sweet. Short, personal updates can be way more effective than lengthy sales pitches.

Simplicity Saves the Day

There’s no need to spend hours on your newsletters. Liz’s rule of thumb is to get it done in 20 minutes. This way, your creative energy stays intact and you don’t feel drained. Straightforwardness is not just effective – it’s liberating.

Have Fun with It

Business doesn’t have to be stuffy or boring. Liz’s playful 1990s-themed website is proof that you can have fun and still be professional. Infuse your unique style and have a blast while doing it.

Resources to the Rescue

Liz has got your back with some killer resources. Head over to lizwilcox.com and snag her free swipe file loaded with email templates, newsletter examples, subject lines – the whole shebang. It's a treasure trove for anyone looking to up their email marketing game.

Turn it into a Creative Outlet

Think of email marketing not as a chore, but as a creative outlet. It's your chance to connect directly with people who dig what you do. Share your stories, quirks, tips – anything that makes you, well, you.

Relationships Matter

Liz’s strategy is all about “relationship first, sales second.” Keep your content relatable and engaging, forming a bond with your audience. That way, when you finally pitch a product, they're more inclined to buy because they trust you. Her success in selling her first RV life book is a testament to this approach.

Be Excited, Be You

Let your excitement and passion shine through. Enthusiasm is infectious, and your audience will be drawn to your genuine energy. And remember, it’s completely fine if some folks unsubscribe. Focus on those who stay and appreciate your authentic self.

Wrap-Up

Email marketing doesn’t have to be a complicated beast. With tips from Liz Wilcox, you can keep things simple, stay authentic, and most importantly, have fun along the way. And if you’re looking for even more fantastic resources, like Liz’s email membership her site is your one-stop shop.

So, go on, hit that send button and start building those connections. Happy emailing!

In Blog Tags email, email marketing, Marketing, Liz Wilcox, Survivor, Blog, Daily Creative Habit, Mike Brennan, Digital Marketing, Tips
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Are You the Best Kept Secret?

February 22, 2024

Unlocking New Audiences and Building Your Credibility

In a world where the hum of creative voices seems to get lost in the noise (and algorithm) , finding a platform that enhances your reach can feel like striking gold.

That’s why as the host of Creative Chats, I created an episode that offers a treasure trove of practical advice for those looking to step into the spotlight as podcast guests. This insightful podcast episode, 227: How to Crush It as a Podcast Guest, democratizes the idea that anyone with value to share can indeed broaden their horizon by being featured on podcasts.

The Power of Podcasting for Creatives

Podcasts present a unique opportunity to narrate your story on a stage that's both intimate and widespread. I’m an advocate for creatives to conquering their initial resistance and throw down the challenge to dive into the sea of possibilities that podcast guesting offers. From extending your creative community to netting in potential collaborators and audiences, the podcast platform serves as a launchpad for visibility and networking.

Creating Your One-Sheet Passport

To embark on this journey, preparation is key. A podcast guest one-sheet is your passport to podcast appearances; it should encapsulate your expertise, accolades, and a dash of personality, enticing hosts and listeners alike. Including testimonials can reinforce your status as a thought leader, while a clear call to action ensures interested parties know how to connect with you.

Strategy and Storytelling

Readying yourself to take to the airwaves involves more than just an impressive body of work—it's about crafting a narrative. I stress the importance of aligning your story with the podcast's theme, resonating with its audience through relatability and value. As part of your pitch strategy, zero in on a few captivating topics.

Overcoming The Talk-Show Jitters

For many, the mere idea of being in the guest chair triggers fear. This episode is a rallying cry for creatives to challenge themselves, face uncertainties head-on, and honor their stories’ worth.

Connecting with Podcast Hosts

When you're ready to step into the podcast guest role, the approach is crucial. I recommend researching and listening to podcasts that speak to your work and audience, tailoring your communication to their needs. With a thoughtful approach, you become not just a guest but a partner in the podcast's journey.

Resource Toolkit

To sweeten the pot, I’m providing a Canva template for crafting your one-sheet at a nominal price (just $9), simplifying your preparation phase. Why? Because I want you to win!

What’s Next?

On Creative Chats episode 227, the value unfolded isn't just in being heard—it's in what comes next — connecting with kindred spirits, growing your community, and cementing your space in the creative cosmos.

So, what's your next chapter in your creative voyage?

Grab your Podcast Guest "One Sheet" Canva Template for $9

In Blog Tags Blog, Podcast, Community, Marketing, Daily Creative Habit, Mike Brennan
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TwistedSister_DeeSnider.jpg

Twisted Advice

June 22, 2016
“...Most of my songs were about believing in yourself, standing up for yourself and fighting for what you believe in. ”
— Dee Snider

Sometimes you find a voice speaking into your journey in the strangest of places. Even places where you're not looking for it.

 

The other night I watched a documentary on the band Twisted Sister on Netflix called “We Are Twisted F***ing Sister!” I was 14 years old when “Stay Hungry” was released including the hits “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock”. I vividly remember their videos being played on MTV (back when it really was MUSIC television). I haven’t thought about this band aside from the occasional 80’s station playing a song, and “meeting” lead singer Dee Snider at a stop light when I lived on Long Island (But that’s another story for another day…).

 

I flipped on the documentary because I was curious, perhaps a bit nostalgic and let’s face it, Netflix’s library can be seriously lacking at times. I have to admit though, I was pleasantly surprised. (I know, right?)

 

There were two ideas that really stood out to me through the telling of their story:

 

First, they didn't let the music system they were in block them from attaining their goals. Instead, they created a new system. When they couldn't get their music on the radio airwaves or get signed to a record deal, they bought advertising space where they played their own music. As a result, when people heard the snippets of their songs over and over again, they thought that they were hearing Twisted Sister being played on the radio. And It seemed that they were everywhere. It created a buzz.

 

Second. They didn't give up. The band was tenacious. They just kept going no matter how many closed doors they met with. All the failed attempts (and near misses) at getting signed. All the shows they played tirelessly and endlessly. They just kept going. And when they had exhausted all their resources and avenues, there was one last opportunity. Even though it seemed small and like one last ditch effort, they went for broke. It was a 25 minute spot on the British television show called The Tube. And they made the most that they could out of it to win over the audience. It was as a result of this appearance that they were eventually signed. Their dream they had became reality.

 

As it turns out, when the path you're on seems twisted, you just might receive some much needed insights from unexpected places. You just need to be listening.

 

What’s some insight you’ve received from an unconventional source?

Leave me a comment. I’d love to hear about it!

In Blog Tags Music, Passion, Dreams, Blog, Creative, Twisted Sister, Dee Snider, Netflix, 80's, Creative Advice, Advice, Marketing, Heavy Metal
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