59: Focus on What Matters in Life

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

Download my free guide: Create Your Buyer Persona

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April 4, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

58: PR for Authors - Maximize Your Efforts

April 4, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

Author Series

In today’s solo episode, I share tips and strategies to plan the PR for your book release at the start of the process instead of after you finish writing, to get the impact you want with your book. I discuss what this means for growing your brand, your audience, and decisions to make that can make a big difference in the success of your book and getting your message out to your audience.

Some top tips …

During this series I’ve interviewed a variety of authors who used different approaches (self-publishing, a hybrid approach, working with one of the world’s biggest publishers) and they each wrote in completely different genres. The most important thing for you to realize is that regardless of your approach, your genre, or topic, at the end of the day, you are the author and the one responsible for promoting and selling your book.

To grow your brand as you write your book, spend time sharing content about the big picture of what you want to be known for and the core message(s) of your book. Do not put this off until right before your book comes out.

Start focusing on your book promotion at least nine months before your book comes out.

Once your book is released, the promotion window is approximately six months. You want to have as much prepared as possible before the start of that six-month window. That is the time to execute all of the hard work you’ve done up front.

Start by thinking about how you want to brand yourself and how this book fits into it. You may want to start a podcast, a blog, or a YouTube channel to begin building the SEO around the core topic you want to be know for, which should include a core theme of your book. I share several ways you can share content to grow your brand on your topic without giving away any of your book’s content.

Book tours are now done almost exclusively on podcasts. I share how they work and what you need to do to prepare.

This episode at glance …

>> (2:45-3:30) It is up to you as the author to build your brand, your audience, and your sales. Don’t rely on the content of your book, publisher, or anything else to grow your brand and sales for you. You are responsible for promoting your book.

>> (3:40-4:20) A few ways to start growing your brand as you write your book.

>> (4:30-5:50) A mindset shift about thinking of writing your book as your side hustle and your full-time business is promoting your book and your brand.

>> (7:20-5:50) Start by thinking about how you want to brand yourself and how this book fits into it.

>> (8:30-10:25) Ideas of the types of content you can share to build your brand without sharing excerpts of your book.

>>( 11:55-) How to plan a podcast book tour

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Christie Bilbrey

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest

https://www.kerriedroban.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

February 20, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

business strategy

57: Maximize Opportunities as an Author with Award-winning Author, Kerrie Droban

February 20, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

business strategy

Author Series

In today’s episode, I talk with Kerrie Droban, an award-winning true crime author and criminal & family attorney. With numerous appearances and interviews on national television and radio shows, she has established herself as an expert on the pathology of the criminal mind, motorcycle gangs, and a mentor to new and aspiring true crime writers.

Today’s episode discusses how Kerrie has grown a successful writing career.

Some top tips …

Writers and aspiring writers should say yes to opportunities when they come your way.

When conducting research for a book, Kerrie recommends getting your information as quickly as possible because you don’t know if sources will continue to be available the entire time you’re writing your book.

Don’t wait to start until you know your exact mission, purpose, etc. You will discover that along the way and it will make sense in hindsight.

Value the story that you’re telling. It should come from the soul, that you’re passionate about, that you want to tell, and feel like there’s value in telling that story.

Make sure you love the subject matter of your book because you’ll spend a ton of time immersed in what you’re writing and researching because it will consume you.

Never, ever, ever rely on your publisher to do your promotion for you. This is your business and it’s up to you to promote it. Promotion starts nine months in advance of your book release.

This episode at glance …

>> (3:35-7:20) How Kerrie switched from writing fiction & poetry to true crime

>> (7:25-26:00) How she found her first agent and publisher

>> (9:05-11:20) Tips on building your platform as a writer

>> (11:30-13:05) The most effective way Kerrie has found to do her research for her books

>> (18:55-26:15) Don’t get caught up in having everything in advance. Let the book take you on the journey to learn, develop your expertise, and only tell stories you believe are worth telling.

>> (26:30-27:00) Know the takeaways you want to communicate to frame the story. That makes the difference between sharing something that reads like a journalistic piece or police report vs. a compelling story that leads people to act.

>> (28:50-34:30) How to write consistently when you are a mom, have another career, and have a deadline.

>> (35:00-42:00) Tips to promote your books and your brand.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Kerrie Droban & Christie Bilbrey

Kerrie’s books on Amazon

Kerrie’s writing workshop : https://www.kerriedroban.com/true-crime-writing-workshop/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrie-droban/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerrie_droban

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest

https://www.ignitefitnesswithjanet.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

February 10, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

56 - Age Well & Accomplish More in Midlife & Beyond with Janet McConnell

February 10, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

Author Series

In today’s episode, I talk with Janet McConnell, speaker, fitness coach, and author of Elements of Aging Well. She assists and inspires women to look beyond what society tells them about aging, to embrace it, and instead rewrite the rules of aging despite what society believes.

Today’s episode discusses how Janet changed the direction of her life, tips on how to incorporate changes in your life that will benefit you in the future, her tips to become the best version of yourself, and how she brought this message into a book as a first-time author.

Some top tips …

Learn what works for you and what you enjoy doing. Find a sport or activity that you enjoy and that will motivate you to reach your fitness goals. Appreciate the small victories that come with your journey and reward yourself by setting more goals along the way.

Surround yourself with people who have the same goals as you. As your mindset and boundaries develop, so do your friendships. Even though it will be challenging, it will make a significant difference in your mindset and your ability to achieve your goals.

Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and make the necessary changes in your life; it's never too late to begin. In the words of Janet, "It's not over until it's over."

How to get started as a first-time author.

This episode at glance …

>> (15:41-19:20) Janet’s journey, how did she get there, the changes she made, and the mindset she adopted

>> (19:23-26:00) Tips on making your dreams a reality

>> (26:01-29:35) Tips on mid-life unraveling: taking a look back at your life, realize how far you've come, who you are today, and appreciate the changes you made

>> (29:35-40:06) As you grow older so does your lifestyle and diet

>> (40:06-46:20) The journey of writing Elements of Aging Well

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Janet McConnell & Christie Bilbrey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-mcconnell-65703a1b2/

Janet’s book: Elements of Aging Well: Wisdom From My Journey So Far: McConnell, Janet:

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

January 18, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

55: Book Writing & Publishing Tips with Dr. Bobby Brewer

January 18, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

Author Series

In today’s episode, I speak with Dr. Bobby Brewer, pastor, and author of, “UFOs: 12 Things Everyone Should Know (a Christian perspective)”. He is not only an author but has also served as a pastor in evangelical Bible churches across Phoenix and co-hosted a radio show for fifteen years.

Today’s episode discusses how Bobby approached writing his most recent book in comparison to his previous works. He offers relevant advice to new authors about how to get their work published in the evolving publishing world. With personal anecdotes, Bobby emphasizes the importance of thoroughly researching your topic, being willing to do what publishers helped with previously, and understanding your niche in the industry.

Some top tips …

Make it a daily practice to work on your book even when you don’t feel inspired. Inspiration comes and goes, but even if you are not writing, you can spend time researching people to interview, and publishers to pitch, learning about your audience, or defining your niche.

Utilize the resources at your disposal. Plenty of interview research can be conducted in your own backyard. It can be over Zoom, email, or with people related to your topic in your state. Networking is also a big part of book promotion, so utilize your immediate circle and see where their networks can take you.

Self promote! Even if it feels uncomfortable, it is necessary to get your book circulating. Anyone can write a book, but getting people to read it is the hard part. Get familiar with different social media platforms and just start posting.

This episode at glance …

>> (4:23-7:55) Discussion of Bobby’s most recent book on UFOs and why he chose this topic

>> (7:56-10:16) His writing process and changes in the world of book publication

>> (10:17-16:57) Tips on how to get started writing your book

>> (16:58-18:56) Self-publishing vs publishing companies; deciding which route is best for you

>> (18:57-22:54) The hardest part of the book writing & publishing process as well as the timeline

>> (22:55- 24:38) Final tips for authors

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Dr. Bobby Brewer & Christie Bilbrey

www.azrgrchapel.org

www.sermonmessages.com

www.ufoanswers.org

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

January 13, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

Sales Series Wrap up

January 13, 2023

Christie Bilbrey

Sales Series

In today’s episode, I revisit my top 2-3 takeaways from each episode in this series, 10 episodes in total. I hope this quick summary gives you the inspiration to improve your own sales and possibly encourages you to check out some of the episodes in this series that you either missed or want to listen to a second time.

Some top tips …

Episode 44: Evergreen funnels with Bailey Richert
Defining what an evergreen funnel is and isn’t as well as how they can be used to bring in more consistent income between live launches - not to mention adding a lot of peace to your business and finances.

Episode 45: Email marketing with Kyle Stout
If you’re not focusing on your email list, you’re likely missing out on a lot of money since most audiences need more time to be nurtured and understand more about your business and why they should invest before they’re ready to purchase. He gives a great perspective on how to think through your email content strategy to make it an engaging, interesting experience that your audience wants to continue reading.

Episode 46: Understanding and owning your confidence with Nicole Kalil
In her book, Validation is for Parking, Nicole defines confidence as simply trusting yourself as opposed to looking for external sources to provide you with a specific feeling. It’s a conscious choice to make a decision and choose it til you become it, which shifts your mind from fake it til you make it. It’s ok to be new at something and not to be afraid of failure. Your audience needs to feel your confidence to help inspire their confidence to work with you or buy from you.

Episode 47: SEO with Glenneth Reed
The most surprising tip I learned was the impact that specific details about your images have on bringing traffic to your website and keeping visitors there. Unlike many other places, you do not want high-resolution images on your website because it greatly slows down the loading time. When people have to wait, they leave - in a matter of seconds. Also, naming your images in metatags makes a big difference in Google’s algorithm. Take the extra time and name them. Also, go back and name existing images. It can make a big difference.

Episode 48: Get more sales with better web copy with Reese Spykerman
Audiences always respond better to conversational language than formal “business-sounding” language. Also, your headlines are one of the most important parts of your website, especially your homepage. This is what entices your audience to stay put and read more. Don’t write generic headlines but make them specific and interesting for your audience.

Episode 49: Grow your business like a weed with Stu Heineke
Identify your unfair advantage in business. Each business has one and once you find yours, incorporate it into your brand. The fastest way to grow is with strategic collaborations, the more, the better.

Episode 50-51: Mastering sales conversations with Victor Antonio, parts 1 & 2
Put your prospects at ease by simplifying their buying decision and don’t bog them down with every detail that goes into providing them with your product or service. Focus on what they care about most. Then, understand what they need to get the best results with their purchase - immediately and down the road. Create an upsell process to build that into the buying experience. Most businesses leave a lot of money on the table because they don’t focus on upselling, even though it’s in the client’s best interest.

Women have a unique sales advantage because they are often naturally more focused on listening and wanting to help others. That can make you a better salesperson. Also, make a point to spend time learning how to sell and becoming better at it. You won’t have a business without this skill.

Episode 52: Become a modern seller with Amy Franko
Build a more profitable business by getting a deeper understanding of the most profitable areas in your business - both to your top line and your bottom line. To take pressure off of sales calls, focus on using your expertise in your field to help your prospect walk through the decision-making process, whether that leads them to work with you or go another route, your only job is helping them make the best decision possible based on your knowledge and expertise in the area. However, this works best when you have a strong pipeline of prospects.

Episode 53: Growing your business with your podcast with Zandra Zuraw
Zandra shares how she makes the majority of her sales from her podcast by finding different facets of her offers that will interest her audience and sharing those on her show the same way she would talk to a friend. She gives several examples of this and how she’s done it to fill up retreats and sell courses. No matter what you want to sell, engaging your audience and bringing them along for the journey is a great way to authentically drive your sales without feeling salesy.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Christie Bilbrey

hello@christiebilbrey.com

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest

http://www.littleyellowcouch.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

December 23, 2022

Christie Bilbrey

How to Start, Grow, and Make Sales with a Podcast with Zandra Zuraw

December 23, 2022

Christie Bilbrey

Sales Series

In today’s episode, I interview Zandra Zuraw, the founder of Little Yellow Couch, an interior design coaching platform for passionate homeowners. She's also the host of the popular podcast, Style Matters, which has logged in over 250 interviews with the most creative people working in the interiors industry. Within the first year, Style Matters landed on the coveted iTunes' New and Noteworthy list and is now in the top 1% of most downloaded podcasts across all categories, globally. Little Yellow Couch has been featured in many media outlets such as Domino, Better Homes & Gardens, USA Today, and Podcast Magazine. Zandra has also been a speaker at several creative business conferences in the U.S. and Canada talking about the business of podcasting and design.

Today’s episode discusses how creating high-quality content and building a strong brand can not only help build a loyal consumer base but also help monetize your content. Zandra discusses how being connected with your listener base helps earn more profit, without making it seem forced.

Some top tips …

Zandra discusses how she makes the majority of her sales from her podcast presence and what comes with leading a top 1% of most downloaded podcasts across all categories, globally. She believes that using your presence to build symbiotic relationships and use high-level networking to your advantage.

This episode at glance …

>>(7:00-15:00): Zandra’s start in podcasting

>>(15:00-17:20): Selling out her in-person retreat from her podcast

>>(17:20-20:15): How to leverage high-level podcast guests

>>(20:15-26:00): How much time you have to invest into starting a podcast and the perfect way to pitch yourself

>>(26:00-35:45): How to evolve your podcast and monetize your brand

>>(35:45-44:45): How to use feedback from your audience to your advantage

>>(44:45-52:00): Establishing your expertise and connecting to your audience

>>(52:00-55:00): How to gain sponsorships

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Zandra Zuraw & Christie Bilbrey

Free style guide

Style Matters Podcast

Oct. 30th podcast episode

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest

https://amyfranko.com/resources/ebooks/a-modern-seller-is-social/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey/

December 16, 2022

Christie Bilbrey

52: How to Become a Modern Seller with Amy Franko

December 16, 2022

Christie Bilbrey

Sales Series

In today’s episode, I interview Amy Franko, a leading sales strategist for growth-oriented mid-market organizations. She works with a variety of sectors to grow sales results through sales strategy, assessment, and skill development programs. Her book, The Modern Seller, is an Amazon best seller and she is also recognized by LinkedIn as a Top Sales Voice.

Today’s episode discusses how women entrepreneurs can change the way they think about sales and their own business, find the unique value they have to offer, and take all the pressure off of sales calls with one simple switch.

Some top tips …

Amy discusses how a mental shift can change your entire outlook and bring more peace into the way you approach sales. She believes that once entrepreunerus know their business inside and out, their bottom line and their weak spots, it helps build a more profitable business. Amy talks about how finding value in your work and expertise, and betting on yourself, will make you a stronger modern seller.

This episode at glance …

>>(2:25-3:40): What makes the biggest difference in building a sales career in the corporate world

>>(3:40-5:00): The biggest mental shift coming from corporate to owning your own business

>>(5:00-11:00): Defining the modern seller

>>(11:00-16:10): The skills required for any modern seller

>>(16:10-18:45): Changes business owners can incorporate into their 2023 goals

>>(18:45-22:00): The biggest mistakes people make in sales

>>(22:00-26:20): How business women change can stop playing small and go after larger clients

>>(26:20-28:30): How to pitch yourself for speaking opportunities

>>(28:30-31:45): Tips for being a modern seller

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Christie and The Business That Story Built podcast!” Does that sound like you? Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! Every week I release an episode that helps strengthen the stories we tell ourselves and the stories we tell others. Follow now!

Links to reach Amy Franko & Christie Bilbrey

amyfranko.com

https://amyfranko.com/resources/ebooks/the-modern-seller-inventories-free-resource/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyfranko/

Download my free guide: 10 Tips to Grow Your Business as a Podcast Guest